Sunday, September 2, 2007
The Saints-Colts Game Will Likely Effect The Outcome Of Most First Week Fantasy Football Match-ups
The first game of the NFL season is the Saints-Colts game on Thursday. With all of the players from those 2 teams that were likely selected in your fantasy football draft, this game will almost certainly have an effect on your first week match-ups. Think about all the big name players in this game who are on fantasy teams in your league - Peyton Manning, Joseph Addai, Marvin Harrison, Reggie Wayne, Adam Vinitieri, Dallas Clark, Drew Brees, Reggie Bush, Deuce McCallister, Marquis Colston, and Devery Henderson. There's even a possibility that the Colts 3rd receiver Anthony Gonzalez and the Saints Tight End Eric Johnson were selected in your fantasy draft. Of course they can't all put up big numbers in the first game, but you should still start all the major players as neither the Saints nor the Colts are known for their defenses. Of course this also means that if you have either defense you really should avoid starting it.
Tuesday, August 28, 2007
NFL Players Who Could Have Big Comeback Seasons For Your Fantasy Team
This NFL season there are bound to be some players who had off seasons last year that come back big this year. These players will likely be available in the mid to late rounds of your fantasy football draft and could be solid starters on your team during your starters bye weeks or if they get hurt.
At quarterback, both Ben Roethlisberger of the Steelers and Trent Green of the Dolphins should have better seasons than they did last year. Roethlisberger is a year removed from his horrific motorcycle accident and still has all the potential in the world. Green's getting older but regularly passed for over 4000 yards before his concussion last year on a Chiefs team without superstar receivers. You can probably select Green very late in your fantasy draft as your #3 QB if you decide you want one.
At running back, Cadillac Williams of the Buccaneers and Lamont Jordan of the Raiders can't possibly play as bad as they did last year. Williams will finally have a solid veteran QB in Jeff Garcia to take the pressure off Tampa Bays running game. Jordan will get the bulk of Oaklands carries early in the season due to Dominic Rhodes' 4 game suspension.
At wide receiver the most obvious possibilty for a big comeback fantasy season is Randy Moss. He hasn't had a great QB like Tom Brady throwing to him since he played with Daunte Culpepper before Culpepper had injury problems. Jerry Porter of the Raiders hardly played last year and could very well get the at least 900 yards receiving he was getting before last season.
At tight end, Eric Johnson of the Saints looks to get back to the level he reached in San Francisco a few years ago before injuries got a hold of him. He gives the Drew Brees yet another option to throw to.
At quarterback, both Ben Roethlisberger of the Steelers and Trent Green of the Dolphins should have better seasons than they did last year. Roethlisberger is a year removed from his horrific motorcycle accident and still has all the potential in the world. Green's getting older but regularly passed for over 4000 yards before his concussion last year on a Chiefs team without superstar receivers. You can probably select Green very late in your fantasy draft as your #3 QB if you decide you want one.
At running back, Cadillac Williams of the Buccaneers and Lamont Jordan of the Raiders can't possibly play as bad as they did last year. Williams will finally have a solid veteran QB in Jeff Garcia to take the pressure off Tampa Bays running game. Jordan will get the bulk of Oaklands carries early in the season due to Dominic Rhodes' 4 game suspension.
At wide receiver the most obvious possibilty for a big comeback fantasy season is Randy Moss. He hasn't had a great QB like Tom Brady throwing to him since he played with Daunte Culpepper before Culpepper had injury problems. Jerry Porter of the Raiders hardly played last year and could very well get the at least 900 yards receiving he was getting before last season.
At tight end, Eric Johnson of the Saints looks to get back to the level he reached in San Francisco a few years ago before injuries got a hold of him. He gives the Drew Brees yet another option to throw to.
Sunday, August 26, 2007
Solid Back-up Fantasy Football Quarterbacks In 2007
Once you pick your starting quarterback in your fantasy football draft, you'll want to select at least 1 QB to start during your starters bye week as well as offer insurance in case of injury.
Future Hall of Famer Brett Favre just keeps chugging along. He has thrown a lot of interceptions over the last couple of years, but is still going to get a lot of yards. He should pass for more touchdowns than last years 18 as well since Green Bay doesn't look to have a strong running game. Another thing about Favre that makes him a solid backup fantasy quarterback is that you're pretty much guaranteed that he will play when you need him. He didn't come back to finally sit out a game, and he'll likely take his streak of games started into retirement.
Ben Roethlisberger should fall far enough this year to be a good #2 QB selection on your fantasy team. He's only 25, has won a Super Bowl, and played very well before last year. Now that he has his motorcycle accident far behind him he should come back strong. There is no way he'll throw 23 interceptions again and should get some nice passing stats with opposing teams focusing on Pittsburghs running game.
Chad Pennington has come back big from shoulder surgery and has another receiver besides Lavernues Coles to throw to in the form of Jericho Cotchery. The Jets also signed Thomas Jones to help out with the running game, which will help the passing game open up. Pennington's certain to have some big fantasy stats every now and then, but not every single week, which is why he makes a good backup when you need him.
Jay Cutler of the Broncos and Alex Smith of the 49ers are 2 young quarterbacks with tons of fantasy potential. Both play in good running offenses and will have every chance to become good fantasy passers. Look for them both to improve this season, maybe greatly, maybe not. This season will tell us whether or not they can take their games to the next level.
You may want to avoid Jake Delhomme unless he's available very late in your fantasy football draft. He hasn't had a good preseason for the Panthers and has David Carr looking over his shoulder if he doesn't perform.
Steve McNair doesn't look to have a big season fantasy stat wise. He's good at running an NFL offense but won't put up eye opening numbers anymore because he doesn't need to for the Ravens to win. He could still be a solid #2 QB on your fantasy roster.
Future Hall of Famer Brett Favre just keeps chugging along. He has thrown a lot of interceptions over the last couple of years, but is still going to get a lot of yards. He should pass for more touchdowns than last years 18 as well since Green Bay doesn't look to have a strong running game. Another thing about Favre that makes him a solid backup fantasy quarterback is that you're pretty much guaranteed that he will play when you need him. He didn't come back to finally sit out a game, and he'll likely take his streak of games started into retirement.
Ben Roethlisberger should fall far enough this year to be a good #2 QB selection on your fantasy team. He's only 25, has won a Super Bowl, and played very well before last year. Now that he has his motorcycle accident far behind him he should come back strong. There is no way he'll throw 23 interceptions again and should get some nice passing stats with opposing teams focusing on Pittsburghs running game.
Chad Pennington has come back big from shoulder surgery and has another receiver besides Lavernues Coles to throw to in the form of Jericho Cotchery. The Jets also signed Thomas Jones to help out with the running game, which will help the passing game open up. Pennington's certain to have some big fantasy stats every now and then, but not every single week, which is why he makes a good backup when you need him.
Jay Cutler of the Broncos and Alex Smith of the 49ers are 2 young quarterbacks with tons of fantasy potential. Both play in good running offenses and will have every chance to become good fantasy passers. Look for them both to improve this season, maybe greatly, maybe not. This season will tell us whether or not they can take their games to the next level.
You may want to avoid Jake Delhomme unless he's available very late in your fantasy football draft. He hasn't had a good preseason for the Panthers and has David Carr looking over his shoulder if he doesn't perform.
Steve McNair doesn't look to have a big season fantasy stat wise. He's good at running an NFL offense but won't put up eye opening numbers anymore because he doesn't need to for the Ravens to win. He could still be a solid #2 QB on your fantasy roster.
Wednesday, August 22, 2007
Second Tier Fantasy Football Running Backs In 2007
This blog recently featured the top 9 fantasy football running backs (the top 8 with a tie at #8) in 2007. Of course selecting any one of these will make you solid at the RB position on your fantasy team. There are fantasy football team managers out there who may play in leagues with more than 8 teams or pick something other than a running back in the first round of their drafts, so they won't get one of the top 8 or 9 fantasy RBs this year. If you're in this situation you needn't despair as there are some talented running backs you'll have a shot at in the second and third rounds of your draft. Some of these RBs could very well break into the top 8 this season, which would make them great value picks.
Rudi Johnson of the Bengals has consistently put up very good fantasy numbers over the last few years and should do the same this season. While he probably won't improve upon last years fantasy stats, he probably won't regress either. Look for his usual 1300 to 1400 yards rushing with between 12 and 15 touchdowns again this season. He should be available toward the end of the first round.
Travis Henry was signed by the Broncos in the offseason, which skyrocketed his value in many 2007 fantasy football leagues. Running behind Denver's offensive line is a guarantee for a running back's success. The only question marks with Henry is his ability to stay healthy and the fact that Mike Bell is still there to take carries if Mike Shanahan decides to go with a 2 RB game plan.
Maurice Jones-Drew scored 15 TDs (13 rushing, 2 receiving) during his rookie campaign last season along with an average of 5.7 yards per carry in Jacksonville. He also had 46 receptions for 436 yards. He will have every oportunity to become the Jaguars' starter at running over the aging Fred Taylor. Even if they split carries at first he still has tremendous potential.
New Englands' second year RB Laurence Maroney won't have Corey Dillon looking his shoulder this season, so he should certainly improve. The only downside with Maroney is the fact that the ball gets spread around pretty evenly in New England, and coach Bill Belichick will use RBs Kevin Faulk and Patrick Pass in certain situations.
Willis McGahee has a change of scenery, coming to the Ravens from the Bills, and very well could have his best season, fantasy-wise. Playing with a better offensive line on a team that won't have opposing defenses singling him out on every play will be good for him. He also doesn't have a lot of mileage for a veteren RB, partially due to his horrific injury in his last college game. He does still seem to miss too many games, but is worth the risk early in the second round of your fantasy football draft.
Last year, Clinton Portis was a top 5 overall selection in most fantasy drafts before his shoulder injury in the preseason. He also missed a bunch of games in the regular season with a broken hand, which opened the doors for Ladell Betts to take over the running game in Washington. If you drat Portis this year you should try to pick Betts for insurance later in your draft. If Portis performs like he did before last year, he'll be a huge fantasy football sleeper pick.
The best thing about getting a late first round selection in your fantasy draft is the fact that you should ba able to pick 2 of the running backs discussed here, which will certainly solidify your fantasy team at the RB position.
Rudi Johnson of the Bengals has consistently put up very good fantasy numbers over the last few years and should do the same this season. While he probably won't improve upon last years fantasy stats, he probably won't regress either. Look for his usual 1300 to 1400 yards rushing with between 12 and 15 touchdowns again this season. He should be available toward the end of the first round.
Travis Henry was signed by the Broncos in the offseason, which skyrocketed his value in many 2007 fantasy football leagues. Running behind Denver's offensive line is a guarantee for a running back's success. The only question marks with Henry is his ability to stay healthy and the fact that Mike Bell is still there to take carries if Mike Shanahan decides to go with a 2 RB game plan.
Maurice Jones-Drew scored 15 TDs (13 rushing, 2 receiving) during his rookie campaign last season along with an average of 5.7 yards per carry in Jacksonville. He also had 46 receptions for 436 yards. He will have every oportunity to become the Jaguars' starter at running over the aging Fred Taylor. Even if they split carries at first he still has tremendous potential.
New Englands' second year RB Laurence Maroney won't have Corey Dillon looking his shoulder this season, so he should certainly improve. The only downside with Maroney is the fact that the ball gets spread around pretty evenly in New England, and coach Bill Belichick will use RBs Kevin Faulk and Patrick Pass in certain situations.
Willis McGahee has a change of scenery, coming to the Ravens from the Bills, and very well could have his best season, fantasy-wise. Playing with a better offensive line on a team that won't have opposing defenses singling him out on every play will be good for him. He also doesn't have a lot of mileage for a veteren RB, partially due to his horrific injury in his last college game. He does still seem to miss too many games, but is worth the risk early in the second round of your fantasy football draft.
Last year, Clinton Portis was a top 5 overall selection in most fantasy drafts before his shoulder injury in the preseason. He also missed a bunch of games in the regular season with a broken hand, which opened the doors for Ladell Betts to take over the running game in Washington. If you drat Portis this year you should try to pick Betts for insurance later in your draft. If Portis performs like he did before last year, he'll be a huge fantasy football sleeper pick.
The best thing about getting a late first round selection in your fantasy draft is the fact that you should ba able to pick 2 of the running backs discussed here, which will certainly solidify your fantasy team at the RB position.
Tuesday, August 21, 2007
5 Quarterbacks Outside Of The Top 8 Who Could Start For Your Fantasy Football Team
While the top 8 fantasy football quarterbacks were featured in an earlier post, what if you're in a 10 or 12 team fantasy league and don't get one of the top 8? No need to despair as there are some more QBs who could be solid starters on your team and possibly even break into the top 8 by the end of the season.
Matt Hasselbeck had a disappointing season last year, missing some time because of injuries. Most of his wide receiver targets and his RB, Shaun Alexander had injury issues as well. Of course it was only 2 seasons ago when he put up huge fantasy stats and took Seattle to the Super Bowl. As long as Hasselbeck and those around him can stay healthy he'll almost certainly improve upon last years performance.
Matt Lienart had an up and down rookie campaign with Arizona last season but may very well break out in a big way this year. With 2 fantasy football stud receivers in Anquan Boldin and Larry Fitzgerald he should complete a lot of passes as long as his offensive line gives him some protection. Arizona's shaky o-line could very well be the make or break factor when it comes to Lienarts fantasy success.
Tony Romo took over the quarterback position for the Cowboys early last season and had a lot of success - even making the Pro Bowl. He has last seasons biggest touchdown producer at WR in Terrell Owens. However, Owens did also lead the NFL in dropped passes. WR Terry Glenn and TE Jason Witten, along with Owens, gives Romo plenty of talent to throw to. The biggest downside with Romo is that he fell off towards the end of the season, possibly due to the fact that defensive coordinators had some film to study after his first few big games.
Philip Rivers had a solid fantasy football season in his first year as the starting quarterback for the Chargers with 3387 yards, 22 TDs, and only 9 interceptions. While he doesn't have any big name wide receivers, he does have TE Antonio Gates to throw to. RB LaDainian Tomlinson will certainly get most of an opposing defenses attention, which could open up more opportunities for Rivers to make big passing plays.
Eli Manning of the Giants disappointed a lot of fantasy football team managers last year. His overall stats weren't bad, but he was very inconsistent. Eli is still young and still Peyton's brother and Archie's son so he'll always be worth a look. If his Manning genetics kick in, and his team plays better around him, he could become a top tier fantasy quarterback.
Matt Hasselbeck had a disappointing season last year, missing some time because of injuries. Most of his wide receiver targets and his RB, Shaun Alexander had injury issues as well. Of course it was only 2 seasons ago when he put up huge fantasy stats and took Seattle to the Super Bowl. As long as Hasselbeck and those around him can stay healthy he'll almost certainly improve upon last years performance.
Matt Lienart had an up and down rookie campaign with Arizona last season but may very well break out in a big way this year. With 2 fantasy football stud receivers in Anquan Boldin and Larry Fitzgerald he should complete a lot of passes as long as his offensive line gives him some protection. Arizona's shaky o-line could very well be the make or break factor when it comes to Lienarts fantasy success.
Tony Romo took over the quarterback position for the Cowboys early last season and had a lot of success - even making the Pro Bowl. He has last seasons biggest touchdown producer at WR in Terrell Owens. However, Owens did also lead the NFL in dropped passes. WR Terry Glenn and TE Jason Witten, along with Owens, gives Romo plenty of talent to throw to. The biggest downside with Romo is that he fell off towards the end of the season, possibly due to the fact that defensive coordinators had some film to study after his first few big games.
Philip Rivers had a solid fantasy football season in his first year as the starting quarterback for the Chargers with 3387 yards, 22 TDs, and only 9 interceptions. While he doesn't have any big name wide receivers, he does have TE Antonio Gates to throw to. RB LaDainian Tomlinson will certainly get most of an opposing defenses attention, which could open up more opportunities for Rivers to make big passing plays.
Eli Manning of the Giants disappointed a lot of fantasy football team managers last year. His overall stats weren't bad, but he was very inconsistent. Eli is still young and still Peyton's brother and Archie's son so he'll always be worth a look. If his Manning genetics kick in, and his team plays better around him, he could become a top tier fantasy quarterback.
Sunday, August 19, 2007
Running Backs That May Go Too High In Your Fantasy Football Draft
You certainly want to be solid at the running back position on your fantasy football team. Because of this RBs will go the fastest in your fantasy draft. However, there are some running backs that could go to high this year based on their projections.
Travis Henry's fantasy stock rose big time when he signed with the Broncos due to past running back successes on that team. He should get more carries than Mike Bell this season, but there's a chance that coach Mike Shanahan will use them both more evenly than people think. Henry has also missed 14 games in the last 3 seasons. He could be a risk as a first round pick.
Clinton Portis had injury issues last season which allowed for the emergence of Ladell Betts last season in Washington. Portis has had some great seasons there with a ton of carries, so he may have more wear and tear than most 25 year old running backs. Of course there is a chance he comes back strong this year. If you pick him in your fantasy draft it's an absolute must that you get Betts later in your draft for insurance.
Duece McCallister of the Saints has seen his best years and has had multiple injuries over the years. Playing in the same backfield as super-athlete Reggie Bush on a pass-first team certainly doesn't help his case. It's very likely that New Orleans will give Bush more touches this year.
Other running backs that could get selected too high in many fantasy football drafts in 2007 include Brandon Jacobs of the Giants, Warrick Dunn of the Falcons, and Julius Jones of the Cowboys.
Travis Henry's fantasy stock rose big time when he signed with the Broncos due to past running back successes on that team. He should get more carries than Mike Bell this season, but there's a chance that coach Mike Shanahan will use them both more evenly than people think. Henry has also missed 14 games in the last 3 seasons. He could be a risk as a first round pick.
Clinton Portis had injury issues last season which allowed for the emergence of Ladell Betts last season in Washington. Portis has had some great seasons there with a ton of carries, so he may have more wear and tear than most 25 year old running backs. Of course there is a chance he comes back strong this year. If you pick him in your fantasy draft it's an absolute must that you get Betts later in your draft for insurance.
Duece McCallister of the Saints has seen his best years and has had multiple injuries over the years. Playing in the same backfield as super-athlete Reggie Bush on a pass-first team certainly doesn't help his case. It's very likely that New Orleans will give Bush more touches this year.
Other running backs that could get selected too high in many fantasy football drafts in 2007 include Brandon Jacobs of the Giants, Warrick Dunn of the Falcons, and Julius Jones of the Cowboys.
Saturday, August 18, 2007
Bulger And McNabb May Be Great Value Picks In Your Fantasy Football Draft
Peyton Manning, Carson Palmer, Drew Brees, and Tom Brady are likely to be the top 4 quarterbacks picked in most of this years fantasy football drafts. Drafting any one of them too early will likely weaken your fantasy team at the running back position because RBs will go off the board faster than other positions. Most fantasy leagues have team rosters with one QB slot and 2 RB slots, making it all the more important to get at least 1 running back early in your draft.
What if you get the 9th or 10th overall pick in your draft? Do you take Manning if he's still available or a running back like Rudi Johson or Laurence Maroney? You could always wait a few rounds before you pick your starting quarterback and get 2 solid RBs and maybe a WR in the first 3 rounds of your fantasy football draft.
In the 4 th or 5th round of some drafts you may be able to select Marc Bulger of the Rams or Donovan McNabb of the Eagles. Bulger had a great NFL season last year and very well may out perform some of the top 4 QBs coming into this season. McNabb may fall this far due to his injuries last year. Before he got hurt last year he was the top fantasy producer at QB. In the Eagles recent preseason game McNabb played very well, completing 6 of 9 passes for 138 yards. He could have a massive comeback season and make fantasy managers who select him ino league champions.
What if you get the 9th or 10th overall pick in your draft? Do you take Manning if he's still available or a running back like Rudi Johson or Laurence Maroney? You could always wait a few rounds before you pick your starting quarterback and get 2 solid RBs and maybe a WR in the first 3 rounds of your fantasy football draft.
In the 4 th or 5th round of some drafts you may be able to select Marc Bulger of the Rams or Donovan McNabb of the Eagles. Bulger had a great NFL season last year and very well may out perform some of the top 4 QBs coming into this season. McNabb may fall this far due to his injuries last year. Before he got hurt last year he was the top fantasy producer at QB. In the Eagles recent preseason game McNabb played very well, completing 6 of 9 passes for 138 yards. He could have a massive comeback season and make fantasy managers who select him ino league champions.
Thursday, August 16, 2007
Top 8 Fantasy Football Tight Ends In 2007
The tight end position in fantasy football has changed over the last few years due to the pass catching abilities of former TE Shannon Sharpe and current TE Tony Gonzalez. Nowadays, many tight ends are used to catch passes as much as they are used to block. This makes them bigger contributors to any fantasy football team. You still should wait until the middle rounds of your fantasy draft before you decide to pick one up, and shouldn't pick more than 2 for your team - one starter and one back-up.
Antonio Gates of the Chargers has put up great fantasy football numbers over the last few seasons and should do the same this year. Playing on a team that doesn't have any superstar wide receivers will certainly help his production. The only downside to Gates is the fact that LaDainian Tomlinson will score most of the touchdowns the Chargers get.
Tony Gonzalez has the same advantages as Gates with the Chiefs' lack of receiving talent and a running back who gets most of the opposing defenses attention. He won't have a proven quarterback throwing to him, which may actually help his numbers because either Damon Huard or Brodie Croyle may opt for shorter passes in his direction rather then throwing downfield to a WR.
Kellen Winslow of the Browns is a very young and talented tight end who should at least match his 89 catches and 875 yards from last year, and should improve upon his 3 TDs. As long as he stays healthy he'll be a solid contributor at tight end for your fantasy football team.
Todd Heap of the Ravens, Jeremy Shockey of the Giants, and Chris Cooley of the Redskins are all tight ends who should put up between 650 and 800 yards and 5 to 9 touchdowns this year. They are all still young players with the potential to go beyond the solid fantasy numbers they usually put up and should still be available in the middle rounds of your fantasy draft.
Alge Crumpler put up very good TE fantasy stats last year, but may take a hit in production this season without Micheal Vick at QB for the Falcons. If he becomes Joey Harrington's favorite target, as he was Vick's, he should get solid numbers.
Vernon Davis' rookie NFL season with the 49ers was below expectations as he missed 8 games with injuries. This year, with Alex Smith being a year better, the addition of WR Darrell Jackson, and the continued success of RB Frank Gore, Davis could have a huge break out season. He should also be available in the later rounds of your fantasy draft.
Top 8 Fantasy Football Tight Ends in 2007
#1 - Antonio Gates
#2 - Tony Gonzalez
#3 - Kellen Winslow
#4 - Todd Heap
#5 - Jeremy Shockey
#6 - Chris Cooley
#7 - Alge Crumpler
#8 - Vernon Davis
Antonio Gates of the Chargers has put up great fantasy football numbers over the last few seasons and should do the same this year. Playing on a team that doesn't have any superstar wide receivers will certainly help his production. The only downside to Gates is the fact that LaDainian Tomlinson will score most of the touchdowns the Chargers get.
Tony Gonzalez has the same advantages as Gates with the Chiefs' lack of receiving talent and a running back who gets most of the opposing defenses attention. He won't have a proven quarterback throwing to him, which may actually help his numbers because either Damon Huard or Brodie Croyle may opt for shorter passes in his direction rather then throwing downfield to a WR.
Kellen Winslow of the Browns is a very young and talented tight end who should at least match his 89 catches and 875 yards from last year, and should improve upon his 3 TDs. As long as he stays healthy he'll be a solid contributor at tight end for your fantasy football team.
Todd Heap of the Ravens, Jeremy Shockey of the Giants, and Chris Cooley of the Redskins are all tight ends who should put up between 650 and 800 yards and 5 to 9 touchdowns this year. They are all still young players with the potential to go beyond the solid fantasy numbers they usually put up and should still be available in the middle rounds of your fantasy draft.
Alge Crumpler put up very good TE fantasy stats last year, but may take a hit in production this season without Micheal Vick at QB for the Falcons. If he becomes Joey Harrington's favorite target, as he was Vick's, he should get solid numbers.
Vernon Davis' rookie NFL season with the 49ers was below expectations as he missed 8 games with injuries. This year, with Alex Smith being a year better, the addition of WR Darrell Jackson, and the continued success of RB Frank Gore, Davis could have a huge break out season. He should also be available in the later rounds of your fantasy draft.
Top 8 Fantasy Football Tight Ends in 2007
#1 - Antonio Gates
#2 - Tony Gonzalez
#3 - Kellen Winslow
#4 - Todd Heap
#5 - Jeremy Shockey
#6 - Chris Cooley
#7 - Alge Crumpler
#8 - Vernon Davis
Top Fantasy Football Sleeper Picks at Running Back
Running backs get the most attention in fantasy football league drafts because they are guaranteed to get the ball in their hands if they're starters and they perform more consistently than players at other positions. Because of this, it's tough to find a good sleeper running back in the middle or late rounds of most fantasy drafts. Last year Frank Gore was the break out running back sleeper. Who will be this year?
Ronnie Brown of the Dolphins and Cadillac Williams of the Buccaneers should both come back strong from so-so sophomore seasons in the NFL due to the fact that both their teams signed solid veteren quarterbacks this year. This will give their teams more of an offensive threat through the pass, allowing Brown and Williams to get carries without the opposing defense targeting them on almost every play.
With Warrick Dunn's injury, the Falcons' Jerious Norwood will get his shot as the starting running back. He had an incredible 6.4 yards per carry last year in limited action. Micheal Vick won't be there to steal his running yards either.
If DeAngelo Williams gets the nod as the starting running back for Carolina over DeShaun Foster, he could certainly be a fantasy football sleeper.
If the Raiders can improve their passing game, LaMont Jordan should improve on his terrible numbers last year. Dominic Rhodes is suspended for the first 4 games of the NFL season, so Rhodes will be the man at running back there, at least for the beginning of the season.
Top Fantasy Football Running Sleepers
Ronnie Brown
Cadillac Williams
Jerious Norwood
DeAngelo Williams
Lamont Jordan
Ronnie Brown of the Dolphins and Cadillac Williams of the Buccaneers should both come back strong from so-so sophomore seasons in the NFL due to the fact that both their teams signed solid veteren quarterbacks this year. This will give their teams more of an offensive threat through the pass, allowing Brown and Williams to get carries without the opposing defense targeting them on almost every play.
With Warrick Dunn's injury, the Falcons' Jerious Norwood will get his shot as the starting running back. He had an incredible 6.4 yards per carry last year in limited action. Micheal Vick won't be there to steal his running yards either.
If DeAngelo Williams gets the nod as the starting running back for Carolina over DeShaun Foster, he could certainly be a fantasy football sleeper.
If the Raiders can improve their passing game, LaMont Jordan should improve on his terrible numbers last year. Dominic Rhodes is suspended for the first 4 games of the NFL season, so Rhodes will be the man at running back there, at least for the beginning of the season.
Top Fantasy Football Running Sleepers
Ronnie Brown
Cadillac Williams
Jerious Norwood
DeAngelo Williams
Lamont Jordan
Wednesday, August 15, 2007
NFL Rookies Worth A Look In Your Fantasy Football Draft
Since rookies have no prior NFL stats to go by, you need to look at the position they play and the team they play for to gauge whether or not you should draft them for your fantasy football team. Last year there were some big fantasy performances from rookies and this year will be the same.
Rookie quarterbacks should almost never be taken in a fantasy draft. It's true that Vince Young put up some nice fantasy numbers last season, but it was all later in the season and was due to his running ability as much, if not more, than his passing. JaMarcus Russell and Brady Quinn are the big name rookie QBs this year. Since the Raiders could very well go with Daunte Culpepper or Josh McCown as their starter, Russell probably won't see much action this year. Quinn could very well be Clevelands starting QB soon, but at best is a free agent pick up later in the NFL season if you're desparate.
Running backs have the best chance of putting up solid fantasy football numbers. Last year had RBs such as Reggie Bush, Joseph Addai, Laurence Maroney, and Maurice Jones-Drew putting up good fantasy stats despite the fact that all of them shared carries with another RB. The rookie running back most likely to carry the load for his team this year is Buffalos' Marshawn Lynch. With Anthony Thomas as his only competition he could be a solid mid round pick. The Viking's Adrian Peterson will be splitting carries with Chester Taylor this year but still may have some big games now and then. The Packers' Brandon Jackson and the Titans' Chris Henry are 2 other rookie RBs that could end up carrying the load for their teams.
Wide receivers usually don't perform big in their rookie years even though Marquis Colston came up big last year and wasn't selected in most fantasy football drafts. However, a rookie WR the talent of the Lions' Calvin Johnson doesn't come along very often. He's 6-5 with 4.35 speed and plays in an offense run by Mike Martz, so there will be a lot of yards through the air to go around. Johnson's the safest rookie fantasy pick this year. Other WRs that have some fantasy potential this year are the Chiefs' Dwayne Bowe, the Chargers' Craig Davis, the Saints' Robert Meachem, and the Colts' Anthony Gonzalez.
At tight end the only rookies of note are the Raiders' Zach Miller and the Bears' Greg Olsen. Neither of them will likely be selected in most fantasy drafts. Miller could be free agent pick up later in the season if you have TE problems.
Rookie quarterbacks should almost never be taken in a fantasy draft. It's true that Vince Young put up some nice fantasy numbers last season, but it was all later in the season and was due to his running ability as much, if not more, than his passing. JaMarcus Russell and Brady Quinn are the big name rookie QBs this year. Since the Raiders could very well go with Daunte Culpepper or Josh McCown as their starter, Russell probably won't see much action this year. Quinn could very well be Clevelands starting QB soon, but at best is a free agent pick up later in the NFL season if you're desparate.
Running backs have the best chance of putting up solid fantasy football numbers. Last year had RBs such as Reggie Bush, Joseph Addai, Laurence Maroney, and Maurice Jones-Drew putting up good fantasy stats despite the fact that all of them shared carries with another RB. The rookie running back most likely to carry the load for his team this year is Buffalos' Marshawn Lynch. With Anthony Thomas as his only competition he could be a solid mid round pick. The Viking's Adrian Peterson will be splitting carries with Chester Taylor this year but still may have some big games now and then. The Packers' Brandon Jackson and the Titans' Chris Henry are 2 other rookie RBs that could end up carrying the load for their teams.
Wide receivers usually don't perform big in their rookie years even though Marquis Colston came up big last year and wasn't selected in most fantasy football drafts. However, a rookie WR the talent of the Lions' Calvin Johnson doesn't come along very often. He's 6-5 with 4.35 speed and plays in an offense run by Mike Martz, so there will be a lot of yards through the air to go around. Johnson's the safest rookie fantasy pick this year. Other WRs that have some fantasy potential this year are the Chiefs' Dwayne Bowe, the Chargers' Craig Davis, the Saints' Robert Meachem, and the Colts' Anthony Gonzalez.
At tight end the only rookies of note are the Raiders' Zach Miller and the Bears' Greg Olsen. Neither of them will likely be selected in most fantasy drafts. Miller could be free agent pick up later in the season if you have TE problems.
Monday, August 13, 2007
Fantasy Football Running Backs That Are Likely To Split Carries With Other RBs On Their NFL Teams
Every experienced fantasy football manager out there knows that the running back position is the most important position on your team for success in your league. This is because every year the top running backs in the NFL produce a lot more than the middle of the road running backs. However there a lot of NFL teams this year with 2 solid running backs, and a lot of confusion as to which one will carry the load for their teams or if they'll split carries. Injuries also play a big part in this. Last year many fantasy football managers who grabbed Ladell Betts off of waivers or free agency were highly rewarded.
This year, with the recent Thomas Jones injury (no word on how severe it so far), Leon Washington could end up being that guy for the Jets. With Warrick Dunn's injury, second year running back Jerious Norwood could end up getting a lot of carries for the Falcons. Without Micheal Vick there to take rushing yards away from him, Norwood could have a break out season. If Clinton Portis doesn't deliver, Betts could do what he did last season. What about Reggie Bush and Deuce McCallister? Who're the Saints going to give the ball to more often? The Vikings drafted Adrian Peterson in the first round of the NFL draft this year. It's likely that Peterson and Chester Taylor will split carries. Some more examples of this are Fred Taylor and Maurice Jones-Drew in Jacksonville, Lamont Jordan and Dominic Rhodes (suspended for first 4 games of the season) in Oakland, and Tatum Bell and Kevin Jones (who's out until about mid season) in Detroit.
Pay close attention this year to these running backs in your fantasy football league. There are bound to be injuries or differences in performance that end up giving one running back the nod over the other.
This year, with the recent Thomas Jones injury (no word on how severe it so far), Leon Washington could end up being that guy for the Jets. With Warrick Dunn's injury, second year running back Jerious Norwood could end up getting a lot of carries for the Falcons. Without Micheal Vick there to take rushing yards away from him, Norwood could have a break out season. If Clinton Portis doesn't deliver, Betts could do what he did last season. What about Reggie Bush and Deuce McCallister? Who're the Saints going to give the ball to more often? The Vikings drafted Adrian Peterson in the first round of the NFL draft this year. It's likely that Peterson and Chester Taylor will split carries. Some more examples of this are Fred Taylor and Maurice Jones-Drew in Jacksonville, Lamont Jordan and Dominic Rhodes (suspended for first 4 games of the season) in Oakland, and Tatum Bell and Kevin Jones (who's out until about mid season) in Detroit.
Pay close attention this year to these running backs in your fantasy football league. There are bound to be injuries or differences in performance that end up giving one running back the nod over the other.
Sunday, August 12, 2007
Top Fantasy Football Sleeper Picks at Wide Receiver
Every fantasy football season there are a few wide receivers that get chosen in the middle and late rounds of fantasy drafts that produce far beyond their expectations. Marques Colston's performance last season is a great example of this, and he wasn't even drafted in many fantasy football leagues. Who's going to step up to the next level this year at WR and TE?
Lee Evans had 82 catches for 1290 yards (265 in one game) and 8 TDs last year, and will almost certainly still be available in the middle rounds of your fantasy draft. Braylon Edwards has tons of potential and could break out this year with some consistent play from the Browns QBs. If Donovan McNabb can stay healthy Reggie Brown's stats could take a nice jump. Donte' Stallworth is gone, so Brown will see a lot of passes coming his way. Both Edwards and Brown are entering their third season - which is usually when WRs start to hit their stride in the NFL. Jerricho Cotchery put up some nice numbers (82 catches, 961 yards, and 6 TDs) last year, and could even pass Lavernues Coles as the Jets #1 receiving target. Calvin Johnson is entering his rookie season, but is 6-5 with incredible athleticism. Playing in an offense run by Mike Martz means lots of yards through the air, and Johnson will get his share. He caught both passes thrown his way in the Lions preseason opener - a preview of things to come.
Top Fantasy Football Wide Receiver Sleepers
Lee Evans
Braylon Edwards
Reggie Brown
Jerricho Cotchery
Calvin Johnson
Lee Evans had 82 catches for 1290 yards (265 in one game) and 8 TDs last year, and will almost certainly still be available in the middle rounds of your fantasy draft. Braylon Edwards has tons of potential and could break out this year with some consistent play from the Browns QBs. If Donovan McNabb can stay healthy Reggie Brown's stats could take a nice jump. Donte' Stallworth is gone, so Brown will see a lot of passes coming his way. Both Edwards and Brown are entering their third season - which is usually when WRs start to hit their stride in the NFL. Jerricho Cotchery put up some nice numbers (82 catches, 961 yards, and 6 TDs) last year, and could even pass Lavernues Coles as the Jets #1 receiving target. Calvin Johnson is entering his rookie season, but is 6-5 with incredible athleticism. Playing in an offense run by Mike Martz means lots of yards through the air, and Johnson will get his share. He caught both passes thrown his way in the Lions preseason opener - a preview of things to come.
Top Fantasy Football Wide Receiver Sleepers
Lee Evans
Braylon Edwards
Reggie Brown
Jerricho Cotchery
Calvin Johnson
Saturday, August 11, 2007
Top Fantasy Football Sleeper Picks at Quarterback and Running Back
Every fantasy football season there are a few players selected in the middle and last rounds that come out of nowhere and end up producing huge numbers. Last years sleepers include Drew Brees, Frank Gore, and Marquis Colston (who wasn't even drafted in most fantasy leagues). Every position in your fantasy football league will have somebody that scores fantasy points beyond their expectations. Since most of these players should still be available later in your fantasy draft, you can afford taking a chance on them.
At the quarterback position, you have to look at the Cardinals' Matt Lienart as a potential sleeper pick. Having 2 of the best wide receivers in Larry Fitzgerald and Anquan Boldin and an improved offensive line with the addition of rookie Levi Brown almost guarantees that Lienart will improve big-time on his numbers from last year. Eli Manning burned a lot of fantasy football managers last season, and may fall to the late rounds in your draft. He's still young, still a Manning, and passed for over 3200 yards with 24 touchdowns and 18 interceptions, which aren't bad numbers to have for your back up QB.
Top 5 Sleepers at QB in 2007
Matt Lienart
Eli Manning
Alex Smith
J.P. Losman
Matt Schaub
At running back you have to look at Thomas Jones as a potential sleeper. He's not getting any respect this year in most fantasy drafts. The Jets haven't had a solid starter at RB since Curtis Martin. He is a bit of a risk though, as he will have another potential sleeper running back, Leon Washington, possibly stealing some of his carries. Cadillac Williams had a terrible sophomore season in the NFL, and hasn't really produced big at the fantasy level since his first 3 games as a rookie. With Jeff Garcia at quarterback to keep defenses honest he will almost certainly put up much better numbers this year.
top 5 Sleepers at RB in 2007
Thomas Jones
Cadilllac Williams
Cedric Benson
Marshawn Lynch
Jamal Lewis
At the quarterback position, you have to look at the Cardinals' Matt Lienart as a potential sleeper pick. Having 2 of the best wide receivers in Larry Fitzgerald and Anquan Boldin and an improved offensive line with the addition of rookie Levi Brown almost guarantees that Lienart will improve big-time on his numbers from last year. Eli Manning burned a lot of fantasy football managers last season, and may fall to the late rounds in your draft. He's still young, still a Manning, and passed for over 3200 yards with 24 touchdowns and 18 interceptions, which aren't bad numbers to have for your back up QB.
Top 5 Sleepers at QB in 2007
Matt Lienart
Eli Manning
Alex Smith
J.P. Losman
Matt Schaub
At running back you have to look at Thomas Jones as a potential sleeper. He's not getting any respect this year in most fantasy drafts. The Jets haven't had a solid starter at RB since Curtis Martin. He is a bit of a risk though, as he will have another potential sleeper running back, Leon Washington, possibly stealing some of his carries. Cadillac Williams had a terrible sophomore season in the NFL, and hasn't really produced big at the fantasy level since his first 3 games as a rookie. With Jeff Garcia at quarterback to keep defenses honest he will almost certainly put up much better numbers this year.
top 5 Sleepers at RB in 2007
Thomas Jones
Cadilllac Williams
Cedric Benson
Marshawn Lynch
Jamal Lewis
Friday, August 10, 2007
Who Do You Select At #3 Or #4 Overall In Your Fantasy Football Draft?
By now, it's a safe assumption that LaDainian Tomlinson and Steven Jackson will go #1 and #2 overall any upcoming fantasy football drafts. Most earlier fantasy drafts have seen Larry Johnson and Frank Gore getting selected at #s 3 and 4 overall. Now, with Johnson's holdout and Gore's broken hand they may be risky picks at those positions. So, Who should you pick if you get the third or fourth overall pick in your fantasy football draft?
You could of course still choose Johnson or Gore. The minute Johnson ends his holdout he'll be a safe #3 overall pick. If Gore starts the season he should produce - He has a hand injury and not a leg injury. His biggest problem will be taking the handoff from Alex Smith.
If you get that third or fourth overall pick in your fantasy draft and consider Johnson and Gore to risky there are a few running backs you should be looking at.
Shaun Alexander's coming off an injury riddled season, but came back big late in the season. He's not on the cover of Madden this year and could have a nice comeback this year. It was only 2 seasons ago when he scored a then record 28 TDs.
Joseph Addai doesn't have to share carries with the departed Dominic Rhodes anymore, and has one of the best passing offenses around him, so he's poised for a huge season. Expect him to put up the stats Edgerrin James put up when he played for the Colts.
Reggie Bush could go as high as #3 in some fantasy football drafts. If the Saints decide to give him the nod over Deuce McCallister in carries and he keeps catching the ball, he could break out big this year. Bush is a threat for a gamebreaking play every time he touches the ball.
You could of course still choose Johnson or Gore. The minute Johnson ends his holdout he'll be a safe #3 overall pick. If Gore starts the season he should produce - He has a hand injury and not a leg injury. His biggest problem will be taking the handoff from Alex Smith.
If you get that third or fourth overall pick in your fantasy draft and consider Johnson and Gore to risky there are a few running backs you should be looking at.
Shaun Alexander's coming off an injury riddled season, but came back big late in the season. He's not on the cover of Madden this year and could have a nice comeback this year. It was only 2 seasons ago when he scored a then record 28 TDs.
Joseph Addai doesn't have to share carries with the departed Dominic Rhodes anymore, and has one of the best passing offenses around him, so he's poised for a huge season. Expect him to put up the stats Edgerrin James put up when he played for the Colts.
Reggie Bush could go as high as #3 in some fantasy football drafts. If the Saints decide to give him the nod over Deuce McCallister in carries and he keeps catching the ball, he could break out big this year. Bush is a threat for a gamebreaking play every time he touches the ball.
Thursday, August 9, 2007
Top 8 Fantasy Football Wide Receivers In 2007
Wide receiver is an interesting position on a fantasy football team. Even the top WRs will have games where they only score a few fantasy points. Wide recievers need the quarterback to throw the ball their way to score, and the top WRs get double covered. Because of this, you're best off choosing WRs that have been consistent, have a solid quarterback, and have good offensive teammates so they can get open.
Chad Johnson would have to be the safest pick at wide reciever in your fantasy football draft this year. He has Carson Palmer throwing the ball and TJ Houshmanzadeh too take the pressure off him. He needs to start the season better this year and improve upon his 7 touchdowns last year to be worth taking over a solid running back.
Marvin Harrison is getting up in age, but should still get his usual production - which will be more than enough for him to be worthy of the first or second WR selection in your fantasy draft. Teammate Reggie Wayne can either be an upside or a downside for Harrisons fantasy stats, depending on whether Wayne starts to take over as Peyton Mannings top option. Even though Harrison will be chosen before Wayne, Wayne may be worth waiting for while you pick your running backs in the early rounds of your draft.
Roy Williams had a big season last year and has potential for a huge season this year. The Lions addition of rookie WR Calvin Johnson will keep Williams from being constantly double covered. Williams also had the most catches over 20 yards last season. He's the go to reciever in a Mike Martz offense, which is almost a guarantee for success. Torry Holt's success in a Martz offense is the prototype Williams hopes to emulate. Holt himself is still one of the top fantasy receivers out there, with more receptions in his first 8 seasons than anybody in NFL history had in their first 8 seasons. With one of the best running backs in the game in Steven Jackson to take the pressure off the passing offense and an underrated QB in Marc Bulger, Holt should put up his usual great numbers.
Steve Smith falls in this list of top fantasy football wide receivers not because of lack of talent, but because of the questionable offense he plays in. Without a proven teammate WR he'll get double covered often. That being said, Jake Delhomme loves to pass to him and he is an incredible talent so maybe he will have a huge season.
Larry Fitzgerald and Anquan Boldin are 2 young and very talented wide receivers who play on a bad Arizona Cardinals team. However, practically the entire passing offense of the Cardinals is devoted to these 2 and they could help make Matt Lienart into a very good NFL quarterback. Just the fact that they've succeeded over the last few years with a past his prime Kurt Warner and a first season Lienart make them good picks in your fantasy football draft. Fitzgerald gets a slight nod over Boldin due to being a red zone target more often.
Top 8 Fantasy Football Wide Receivers
#1 - Chad Johnson
#2 - Marvin Harrison
#3 - Roy Williams
#4 - Torry Holt
#5 - Reggie Wayne
#6 - Steve Smith
#7 - Larry Fitzgerald
#8 - Anquan Boldin
Chad Johnson would have to be the safest pick at wide reciever in your fantasy football draft this year. He has Carson Palmer throwing the ball and TJ Houshmanzadeh too take the pressure off him. He needs to start the season better this year and improve upon his 7 touchdowns last year to be worth taking over a solid running back.
Marvin Harrison is getting up in age, but should still get his usual production - which will be more than enough for him to be worthy of the first or second WR selection in your fantasy draft. Teammate Reggie Wayne can either be an upside or a downside for Harrisons fantasy stats, depending on whether Wayne starts to take over as Peyton Mannings top option. Even though Harrison will be chosen before Wayne, Wayne may be worth waiting for while you pick your running backs in the early rounds of your draft.
Roy Williams had a big season last year and has potential for a huge season this year. The Lions addition of rookie WR Calvin Johnson will keep Williams from being constantly double covered. Williams also had the most catches over 20 yards last season. He's the go to reciever in a Mike Martz offense, which is almost a guarantee for success. Torry Holt's success in a Martz offense is the prototype Williams hopes to emulate. Holt himself is still one of the top fantasy receivers out there, with more receptions in his first 8 seasons than anybody in NFL history had in their first 8 seasons. With one of the best running backs in the game in Steven Jackson to take the pressure off the passing offense and an underrated QB in Marc Bulger, Holt should put up his usual great numbers.
Steve Smith falls in this list of top fantasy football wide receivers not because of lack of talent, but because of the questionable offense he plays in. Without a proven teammate WR he'll get double covered often. That being said, Jake Delhomme loves to pass to him and he is an incredible talent so maybe he will have a huge season.
Larry Fitzgerald and Anquan Boldin are 2 young and very talented wide receivers who play on a bad Arizona Cardinals team. However, practically the entire passing offense of the Cardinals is devoted to these 2 and they could help make Matt Lienart into a very good NFL quarterback. Just the fact that they've succeeded over the last few years with a past his prime Kurt Warner and a first season Lienart make them good picks in your fantasy football draft. Fitzgerald gets a slight nod over Boldin due to being a red zone target more often.
Top 8 Fantasy Football Wide Receivers
#1 - Chad Johnson
#2 - Marvin Harrison
#3 - Roy Williams
#4 - Torry Holt
#5 - Reggie Wayne
#6 - Steve Smith
#7 - Larry Fitzgerald
#8 - Anquan Boldin
Wednesday, August 8, 2007
Top 8 Fantasy Football Running Backs in 2007
Since running backs are so important to fantasy football success it's very possible that the top 8 overall picks will consist entirely of them unless somebody pulls the trigger early on Peyton Manning.
The obvious #1 running back and overall selection in almost every fantasy draft this year will be LaDainian Tomlinson. LT may not score 31 touchdowns again this year but he's still in his prime. Even if he does 75% of what he did last year he's still the best guy to pick at #1.
Steven Jackson has emerged as the second pick in most fantasy football drafts. He ran for over 1500 yards and caught 90 passes for another 806 yards last year. The only difference between him and LT is the amount of end zone visits - Jackson scored 16 times last year. Still, Jackson's only 23 and is one of those guys with huge TD potential. He may also be a better player to have on your team during your fantasy football playoffs than LT as the Rams may be fighting to make the NFL playoffs in the NFC while the Chargers are sittin' pretty at the top of the AFC at the end of the NFL regular season.
The #3 running back is a toss up between Larry Johnson and Frank Gore for most fantasy football managers. Both performed well last year, but there are many who question how they'll do this year. Johnson's going to be running behind a depleted line with an inexperienced QB at the helm so defenses will be gunning for him. There's also the history of running backs who've underperformed in fantasy football the year after carrying the ball over 400 times in a season. Gore has a recent hand injury and a history of injuries from his college days. Still, he's younger and has more upside than Johnson depending on how fast his hand heals.
The questions surrounding Johnson and Gore may bring 2 players with huge potential this season to the forefront - Joseph Addai and Reggie Bush. Addai won't be sharing carries this season in that awesome passing offense the Colts possess. He very well could have a season like Edgerrin James had at his peak in that offense. Reggie Bush didn't gat too many yards per carry (3.6) last season and he still has Deuce McAllister there splitting carries, but he caught 88 passes last year and is a threat to score every time he touches the ball. At some point this season he'll get more carries per game. With his athletic ability he's worth a risk if you have a top 5 pick in your fantasy football draft. If he falls to you late in the first round you should grab him and consider yourself lucky.
Shaun Alexander could have a big comeback season or just be another solid running back if he stays healthy, so you can't go wrong selecting him between #6 and #10 in the first round of your fantasy football draft. If he comes back big he could be one of the biggest steals in the first round.
Brian Westbrook and Willie Parker both had nice seasons last year and are solid running backs who should go late in the opening round of your fantasy draft. They both have that 'small for a running back, but could perform like Tiki Barber or Warrick Dunn' thing about them.
Top 8 Fantasy Football Running Backs
#1 - LaDainian Tomlinson
#2 - Steven Jackson
#3 - Larry Johnson
#4 - Joseph Addai
#5 - Reggie Bush
#6 - Frank Gore
#7 - Shaun Alexander
#8 - (tie)Brian Westbrook - Willie Parker
The obvious #1 running back and overall selection in almost every fantasy draft this year will be LaDainian Tomlinson. LT may not score 31 touchdowns again this year but he's still in his prime. Even if he does 75% of what he did last year he's still the best guy to pick at #1.
Steven Jackson has emerged as the second pick in most fantasy football drafts. He ran for over 1500 yards and caught 90 passes for another 806 yards last year. The only difference between him and LT is the amount of end zone visits - Jackson scored 16 times last year. Still, Jackson's only 23 and is one of those guys with huge TD potential. He may also be a better player to have on your team during your fantasy football playoffs than LT as the Rams may be fighting to make the NFL playoffs in the NFC while the Chargers are sittin' pretty at the top of the AFC at the end of the NFL regular season.
The #3 running back is a toss up between Larry Johnson and Frank Gore for most fantasy football managers. Both performed well last year, but there are many who question how they'll do this year. Johnson's going to be running behind a depleted line with an inexperienced QB at the helm so defenses will be gunning for him. There's also the history of running backs who've underperformed in fantasy football the year after carrying the ball over 400 times in a season. Gore has a recent hand injury and a history of injuries from his college days. Still, he's younger and has more upside than Johnson depending on how fast his hand heals.
The questions surrounding Johnson and Gore may bring 2 players with huge potential this season to the forefront - Joseph Addai and Reggie Bush. Addai won't be sharing carries this season in that awesome passing offense the Colts possess. He very well could have a season like Edgerrin James had at his peak in that offense. Reggie Bush didn't gat too many yards per carry (3.6) last season and he still has Deuce McAllister there splitting carries, but he caught 88 passes last year and is a threat to score every time he touches the ball. At some point this season he'll get more carries per game. With his athletic ability he's worth a risk if you have a top 5 pick in your fantasy football draft. If he falls to you late in the first round you should grab him and consider yourself lucky.
Shaun Alexander could have a big comeback season or just be another solid running back if he stays healthy, so you can't go wrong selecting him between #6 and #10 in the first round of your fantasy football draft. If he comes back big he could be one of the biggest steals in the first round.
Brian Westbrook and Willie Parker both had nice seasons last year and are solid running backs who should go late in the opening round of your fantasy draft. They both have that 'small for a running back, but could perform like Tiki Barber or Warrick Dunn' thing about them.
Top 8 Fantasy Football Running Backs
#1 - LaDainian Tomlinson
#2 - Steven Jackson
#3 - Larry Johnson
#4 - Joseph Addai
#5 - Reggie Bush
#6 - Frank Gore
#7 - Shaun Alexander
#8 - (tie)Brian Westbrook - Willie Parker
Tuesday, August 7, 2007
Top 8 Fantasy Football Quarterbacks in 2007
Once again this year Peyton Manning will, and should be, the first quarterback taken in most 2007 fantasy football drafts. His offensive line protects him like a Secret Service detail, giving him the time to throw to one of his very talented recieving crew. The only downside to selecting Manning in your football draft is that you'll have to sacrifice your running back position unless you get lucky with some good sleeper RBs later in the draft. Manning's always a solid pick, though, and much less likely to get hurt than a running back.
The next 3 quarterbacks are Carson Palmer, Tom Brady, and Drew Brees, with any one of them a possibility as the second QB chosen. Brees had an incredible stretch in the middle of the season and slowed down at the end of the season - right when you'll need him for your fantasy playoffs. Can he repeat last years performance? Will Brady be passing to the Randy Moss who played in Minnesota or the Randy Moss who played in Oakland? Can Stallworth stay healthy? These questions push Palmer to the front of this group, though only slightly. He's got Chad Johnson and T.J. Houshmandzadeh to throw to, and they should certainly perform again. Selecting any one of them will likely cause you to lose out on a solid RB or WR so chose wisely.
One quarterback that seems to get overlooked is Marc Bulger. He passed for over 4300 yards with 24 TDs and only 8 INTs. He still has Torry Holt and Isaac Bruce out there catching passes, a great receiving RB in Steven Jackson, and new TE Randy McMicheal. The real upside with Bulger is that he still may be available after you pick a couple RBs and a WR.
Where Donovan McNabb goes in a fantasy football draft is up for speculation. He's awesome when he plays but seems to get the injury bug every season as of late. Don't chose McNabb too early, and make sure to select a solid back up for him. If McNabb plays the entire season he'll be one of the best picks in the draft based on how far down the draft board he'll likely fall.
Jon Kitna is seeing a lot of love from fantasy football drafters this year. The addition of rookie WR Calvin Johnson, along with the success of WRs Roy Williams and Mike Furrey has catapulted Kitna into the top echelon of fantasy QBs this year. He did pass for over 4000 yards last year with 21 TDs, but also had 22 INTs. If Mike Martz's offense comes together for the Lions this year, Kitna could be huge.
Vince Young lost his top 2 WRs from last year which may hurt his draft position this year. Of course, like Micheal Vick (who would've been on this list if not for his legal troubles) his value is that he'll score a lot of fantasy points on the ground.
Top 8 Fantasy Football Quarterbacks
#1 - Peyton Manning
#2 - Carson Palmer
#3 - Tom Brady
#4 - Drew Brees
#5 - Marc Bulger
#6 - Donovan McNabb
#7 - Jon Kitna
#8 - Vince Young
The next 3 quarterbacks are Carson Palmer, Tom Brady, and Drew Brees, with any one of them a possibility as the second QB chosen. Brees had an incredible stretch in the middle of the season and slowed down at the end of the season - right when you'll need him for your fantasy playoffs. Can he repeat last years performance? Will Brady be passing to the Randy Moss who played in Minnesota or the Randy Moss who played in Oakland? Can Stallworth stay healthy? These questions push Palmer to the front of this group, though only slightly. He's got Chad Johnson and T.J. Houshmandzadeh to throw to, and they should certainly perform again. Selecting any one of them will likely cause you to lose out on a solid RB or WR so chose wisely.
One quarterback that seems to get overlooked is Marc Bulger. He passed for over 4300 yards with 24 TDs and only 8 INTs. He still has Torry Holt and Isaac Bruce out there catching passes, a great receiving RB in Steven Jackson, and new TE Randy McMicheal. The real upside with Bulger is that he still may be available after you pick a couple RBs and a WR.
Where Donovan McNabb goes in a fantasy football draft is up for speculation. He's awesome when he plays but seems to get the injury bug every season as of late. Don't chose McNabb too early, and make sure to select a solid back up for him. If McNabb plays the entire season he'll be one of the best picks in the draft based on how far down the draft board he'll likely fall.
Jon Kitna is seeing a lot of love from fantasy football drafters this year. The addition of rookie WR Calvin Johnson, along with the success of WRs Roy Williams and Mike Furrey has catapulted Kitna into the top echelon of fantasy QBs this year. He did pass for over 4000 yards last year with 21 TDs, but also had 22 INTs. If Mike Martz's offense comes together for the Lions this year, Kitna could be huge.
Vince Young lost his top 2 WRs from last year which may hurt his draft position this year. Of course, like Micheal Vick (who would've been on this list if not for his legal troubles) his value is that he'll score a lot of fantasy points on the ground.
Top 8 Fantasy Football Quarterbacks
#1 - Peyton Manning
#2 - Carson Palmer
#3 - Tom Brady
#4 - Drew Brees
#5 - Marc Bulger
#6 - Donovan McNabb
#7 - Jon Kitna
#8 - Vince Young
Sunday, August 5, 2007
Why Steven Jackson Should Go Second In Your Fantasy Football Draft
The majority of 2007 fantasy football drafts will see LaDainian Tomlinson going at #1, then Steven Jackson or Larry Johnson going at #2. Jackson should be your selection if you get the #2 overall pick for a variety of reasons.
Jackson should be the #2 pick due to not only his stats last year, but the probability that he hasn't reached his peak in a high powered offense. He's only 23 and blew up in the last 6 games last year - perfect timing for a fantasy football playoff run. With the way things are in the NFC, the Rams could very well be around .500 and playing for a playoff spot in weeks 16 and 17 (fantasy football championship weeks), so Jackson should be out there getting the stats you need. Because of this, you may actually be better off having Jackson than LT if you make the playoffs in your fantasy football league and the Chargers clinch their playoff seed a couple of weeks before the NFL playoffs start. This, of course, is assuming both teams play like they did last year. So many players are picked based purely on their stats, but you want to have players on teams that have something to play for in the last few weeks of the NFL regular season to win a fantasy football championship.
Add Larry Johnson's lengthy holdout, depleted O-line, and the history of running backs getting hurt the season after they carry the ball over 400 times to the mix and the #2 overall fantasy football pick should be Steven Jackson.
Jackson should be the #2 pick due to not only his stats last year, but the probability that he hasn't reached his peak in a high powered offense. He's only 23 and blew up in the last 6 games last year - perfect timing for a fantasy football playoff run. With the way things are in the NFC, the Rams could very well be around .500 and playing for a playoff spot in weeks 16 and 17 (fantasy football championship weeks), so Jackson should be out there getting the stats you need. Because of this, you may actually be better off having Jackson than LT if you make the playoffs in your fantasy football league and the Chargers clinch their playoff seed a couple of weeks before the NFL playoffs start. This, of course, is assuming both teams play like they did last year. So many players are picked based purely on their stats, but you want to have players on teams that have something to play for in the last few weeks of the NFL regular season to win a fantasy football championship.
Add Larry Johnson's lengthy holdout, depleted O-line, and the history of running backs getting hurt the season after they carry the ball over 400 times to the mix and the #2 overall fantasy football pick should be Steven Jackson.
Saturday, August 4, 2007
Tomlinson Almost Certain To Go #1
In nearly every fantasy football draft this year, LaDainian Tomlinson will be the #1 overall pick. Not picking him at the top spot would be like the Texans drafting Mario Williams #1 instead of Reggie Bush. With over 2300 total yards, 31 rushing and receiving touchdowns, and a couple of TD passes! you'd have to crazy to not pick him with the top pick in your fantasy football draft. Sure, he might not match those incredible TD stats this year, but how much could he fall off - if he does fall off. The biggest downside to LT depends on how well San Diego plays this year. If they clinch the top seed in the AFC with a couple weeks left in the season, they won't risk playing Tomlinson too much in those last 2 games, just in time for your fantasy football championship game if you get there. This is the reason why you should pick Micheal Turner late in your fantasy draft if you get LT. Picking Turner if you get Tomlinson will also save you if LT gets hurt this season.
Now's The Time To Draft Your Fantasy Football Team
The start of the 2007 NFL season is still a month away, so now's the time to get into some fantasy football leagues. Many fantasy football players have already drafted some teams, but this last month before the season starts is the optimal time to draft. There are injuries, holdouts, and a certain dog fighting situation involving a prominent fantasy football quarterback out there that most early drafters weren't worried about a few months ago. If you draft your team now you'll have a much clearer picture of who's going to be starting and scoring at the beginning of the season.
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