KHOU Fantasy Football

Patriots navigate snow like Sarah Palin on a moose hunt but...?

2008-12-24T05:53:33Z

I'll be the first one to tell you I simply blew it last week. I put too many eggs in the Texans basket. They should have beaten the Raiders, but you give any team in the N.F.L. a little confidence and anything is possible. In the Raiders case it also helped to have a speedster named Johnnie Lee.

But lets talk about this week. Its week 16 and that means you don't want to start any player on a team that's already clinched its playoff position. I don't care how big a stud the guy is. Brandon Jacobs, sit him. Chris Johnson of the Titans you're outta here. You're best bet is to find a solid starter who's team is battling for a post season berth, or playing for pride.

]]> For example, the Patriots have a lot on the line, but playing at Buffalo could be tricky. I know last week they navigated the snow like Sarah Palin on a moose hunt, but playing in the elements on the east coast is always dicey this time of year. But if you choose to go that route, Matt Cassel, Wes Welker, and Randy Moss look like winners again this week.
You can gamble on a Cedric Benson who had 171 yards rushing vs the Browns last week but the question is, will he do it again vs the Kansas City defense? Benson has something to prove to the Bengals , and going out with two 100 yards plus games would really help his situation.

The Texans are out of it, but they are playing for redemption after last Sunday meltdown in Oakland. Plus, Houston is 5-and 2 at home this season so Andre Johnson , Matt Schaub, and Steve Slaton could come up big.
Keep in mind the Bears are fighting for a playoff spot. Even so their offense sucks. The only Chicago player I would start would be Matt Forte. During the 4th quarter of the Monday Night game vs Green Bay, Forte ran the ball like his toe was a lot better.

Another game that should produce a lot of fantasy points is the Chargers hosting the Broncos. This one is for all the marbles, and both teams know how to light up the scoreboard. Phillip Rivers , Jay Cutler, Brandon Marshall, and Antonio Gates should all post big numbers. The Chiefs aren't going anywhere but quarterback Tyler Thigpen is improving every week and should be a good pick vs the Bengals. Don't forget Drew Brees is chasing one of Dan Marino's records so Sean Peyton will give him every opportunity to break it. What else do the Saints have to play for? Good look guys and dolls.

Schaub, Slaton, and Walter will shine vs Raiders

2008-12-17T19:02:50Z

Just because Burger King came up with a fragrance that makes you smell like a whopper, it doesn't mean you should be flame broiled. Likewise, just because the Raiders look and smell like a pro football team it doesn't mean they play like one. They haven't all year and the Texans are counting on them not to do it again this week.

That means quarterback Matt Schaub, running back Steve Slaton, and reciever Kevin Walter should all have banner days. Why not Andre Johnson? If the Raiders don't follow this guy to the bathroom they should be banned from the league. Johnson lit up the Titans like a Christmas tree. Oops, I should have said "Holiday Tree". Whatever, Walter should benefit from the extra attention on Johnson. Lets checkout some other sleepers.

]]> Quarterbacks
------------------
1) Matt Schaub Texans (Houston @ Oakland)
Since coming back from knee surgery Schaub is 2-0. He passed for 414 in a win over the Packers, and 284 last week vs the Titans. Granted Andre Johnson was a monster catching the football, but the Titans defense is far better than the Raiders.

2) Ryan Fitzpatrick Bengals (Cincinnati @ Cleveland)
Yes, if you really need a sleeper Fitzpatrick isn't a bad option eventhough he
plays for the Bengals. The Cleveland defense is finding it hard to stop anyone
these days and that should include the Bengals.

Running Back
-------------------
1) Steve Slaton Texans ( Houston @ Oakland)
What more does this guy has to prove. He the only running back to rush for a
100 yards vs the Titans and he did it twice.

2) Pierre Thomas Saints (New Orleans @ Detroit)
Reggie Bush is done for the year, so the full burden of the Saints running game
will fall on Thomas. He's good for both rushing and receiving and he has a
nose for the endzone. Also, it doesn't hurt that the Saints are playing the
winless Lions. Detroit could pull off the upset by Thomas should be a solid point maker reguardless.

Wide Receiver
---------------------
1) Calvin Johnson Lions ( New Orleans @ Detroit)
The Lions will end their losing streak on Sunday and Johnson will play a big
role in the upset. He scored last week and will keep the momentum going
vs a weak Saints secondary.

2) Kevin Walter Texans ( Houston @ Oakland)
While all the Raiders will be glued to every move Andre Johnson makes,
Walter should be free to do his thing. Last week he only caught 2 passes for
8 yards but that was mostly due to Johnson's career day.

Playoffs, desperate times call for desperate measures

2008-12-11T23:28:58Z

If you feel like you're in trouble because your fantasy team is dealing with injuries heading into the playoffs. Things aren't really that bad. You could be Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich. He could have a jail cell right next to O.J. all you're trying to do is win
a few beers.

I have a few long shots that might help you sqeak out a victory in the playoffs. In the post season the difference between winning and losing is just selecting a guy who will be on the field for the whole game. Some of these guys might even be available in your league. Keep in mind, these picks are just for owners desperate to fill some holes.

]]> Quarterbacks
--------------------------
1) Kyle Orton Bears (New Orleans @ Chicago)
Orton faces the Saints Thursday night and should be good for at least 200 yards and 2 touchdowns. The Saints have
been week in the secondary all year.

2) Seneca Wallace Seahawks (Seattle @ St. Louis)
This guy was really hot last week and almost pulled off the upset of New England. Wallace passed
for just 212 yards but he had 3 touchdowns. This week he faces the Rams need I say more.

Running Back
-----------------------
1) Maurice Jones Drew Jaguars (Green Bay @ Jacksonville)
Last week Texans rookie Steve Slaton torched the Packers for 120 yards in freezing conditions.
Jones Drew should do just as well at home this week, especially with Fred Taylor out with a tumb injury.

2) Sammy Morris Patriots (New England @ Oakland)
In Seattle Morris only picked 36 yards and a touchdown last week. But this week he's facing the Raiders, so the Patriots can expect to have the ball on offense a lot. The Raiders turn the ball over a lot so New England will have many opportunities to rackup some stats.

Wide Receivers
---------------------------

1) Deion Branch Seahawks (Seattle @ St. Louis)
He's finally healthy and that means Branch could improve on last week's 4 catches for 88 yards performance. He also had 2 touchdowns.

2) Antonio Bryant Buccaneers (Tamoa Bay @ Atlanta
Bryant was hugh making 9 catches for 200 yards , and 2 touchdowns vs Carolina.
Keep in mind we are talking about the Bucs, they would rather run first if they can.

Slaton ready for Lambeau Field

2008-12-04T03:42:27Z

Its going to be cold at Lambeau Field, But Texans running back Steve Slaton will enter the game vs the Packers red hot. On Wednesday Slaton received the A.F.C. Offensive Player of the Week award. The Texans little big man is only 5'9 and 200 pounds, but he played a lot bigger than that on Monday night.

Slaton rushed for 130 yards and 2 touchdowns in a victory over the Jaguars, and should keep the good times rolling vs a Packers team that has lost 4 of their last 5 games. Lets checkout some other players who should fair well in Week 14.

]]> Quarterbacks
------------------
1) Brett Farve Jets (N.Y. Jets @ San Francisco)
Farve is looking for redemption after loss to Denver. He completed 23 of 43 passes against a terrible Broncos defense for 243 yards and an interception. Look for Brett to fair a lot better vs the Niners.

2) Matt Cassel Patriots (New England @ Seattle)
Just when it looked like Matt Cassel had turned a corner, he only completes 19 of 39 passes for 169 yards and an interception Pittsburgh. Granted the Steelers are tough on defense but Cassel was really bad. But Seattle has one of the worst pass defenses in the league, so look for him to bounce back in a huge way.......

Running Backs
------------------
1) Pierre Thomas Saints (Atlanta @ New Orleans)
With Duce starting his 4 game suspension the Saints don't really have anyone else. Thomas is still a risky start because the Falcons really shutdown L.T. last week.

2) Thomas Jones Jets (N.Y.Jets @ San Francisco)
He score 2 touchdowns last week and should see the end zone again vs the Niners

3) Chris Johnson Titans (Cleveland @ Tennessee)
On turkey day Johnson ran for 125 yards and 2 touchdowns vs the Lions. He had a 100 yards before halftime. Look for a repeat performance against the Browns.

Wide Outs
----------------
1) Roddy White Falcons (Atlanta @ New Orleans)
White is having a fantastic season and the Saints secondary sucks! You do the math. Last week he burned the Chargers for 112 yards on 6 catches. Look for White to find the end zone this week.

2) Kevin Walter Texans (Houston @ Green Bay)
My surprise pick of the week. Look for the Packers to give most of the attention to Andre Johnson opening up some big gains for Walter. Besides, he likes playing in cold weather.

3) Randy Moss Patriots (New England @ Seattle)
Last week he dropped 3 passes, one should have been a touchdown against the Steelers. The Patriots folded like an old lawn chair last week so look for Moss and Cassel to bounce back in Seattle despite the long trip from east to west coast.

Ahman Green is seeing "Red"

2008-11-19T23:09:50Z

If you live in Houston, you've heard all of the Ahman Green injury jokes. Well, now the joke is on the opposition.

Green has finally found his nitch with the Texans. The man is money in the "Red Zone". Just in case you missed it he scored 2 touchdowns last week vs the Colts.
On both touchdowns he was hit by several defenders but fought his way to paydirt. Last week he carried the ball only 9 times for 17 yards, but in the "Red Zone" he was money. Lets take a look at some other players who might be available in your league.

]]> Quarterback
----------------------
1) Kerry Collins Titans (N.Y. Jets @ Tennessee)
Hold the phone, the Titans are now a threat to pass the football. With more and more defenses stacking the line to stop the Tennessee rushing attack, Collins has been flying the friendly skies. Last week Jacksonville said beat us with the pass if you can, and Collins did. He complete 13 of 23 for 230 yards and 3 touchdowns. The Titans are 10-0 and finding more balance with Collins passing the football.

2) Shaun Hill 49ers (San Francisco @ Dallas
OK, he has a tough matchup this week, but after that the Niners schedule gets a lot easier. Besides you can bet they will be losing and that means a lot of attempts and a lot of passing yards.

3) Matt Cassel Patriots (New England @ Miami)
If you haven't picked up Cassel by now shame on you. He arrived last week passing for 400 yards and 3 touchdowns in a loss to the Jets. He also had 60 yards rushing. Not bad for a guy who hadn't started a game since High School until this season.

Running Back
--------------------------
1) Ahman Green Texans (Houston @ Cleveland)
Just call him Mr. "Red Zone". Last week he scored 2 touchdowns vs Indianapolis.

2) Peyton Hillis Broncos (Denver @ Oakland)
Why Peyton Hillis? Mainly because the Broncos don't have anyone else. Tatum Bell will get some carries but so what.
Hillis rushed for 44 yards and 2 touchdowns last week vs Atlanta. He has a sore shoulder but all indications are he will be playing vs the Raiders.

3) Derrick Ward & Ahmad Bradshaw Giants (N.Y. Giants @ Arizona)
Branden Jacobs has a swollen knee. The big fella says he's fine, but the G-men could decide to rest him or limit his playing time. Ward had 41 yards last week, and Bradshaw had 96 vs the Ravens.

Wide Receiver
---------------------------
1) Dustin Keller TE Jets (N.Y. Jets @ Tennessee)
Brett Farve made him a star on National tv last week. Keller caught 8 passes for 87 yards in a win over New England. Keller has turned into Farve's favorite receiver.

2) Justin Gage Titans (N.Y. Jets @ Tennessee)
Gage put up career numbers vs the Jaguars last Sunday. He grabbed 4 passes for 147 yards and 2 touchdowns.
Tennessee is developing its passing and Gage is reaping the benefits.

3) Donnie Avery Rams (Chicago @ St. Louis)
The former U.H. star caught 9 passes for 93 yards last week. With his speed plus the fact running back Steven Jackson isn't healthy yet should make Avery a hot target vs the Bears.

T.O. a hit on Letterman, but against Redskins?

2008-11-13T04:42:06Z

Terrell Owens you have a problem. You think you're a star, and after your appearence on Letterman it pains me to say you are. T.O. got rave reviews for his top ten, but will he be in the top 10 among receivers in week 11.

I think the Cowboys want to prove to the Redskins and the league "They're Back". With Romo back in the saddle again T.O. is an attractive options. But a vote for Owens means you are rolling the dice that Tony Romo can take a licking and keep on ticking injuried pinkie and all. It might be better to wait and see, but Owens is too good to sit. So cross your fingers and hope Romo is really healthy.
Meanwhile, this weekend the matchups are really good for several fantasy standouts.

]]> Quarterbacks
------------------------
1) Kurt Warner Cardinals (Arizona @ Seattle)
So far Warner has played like a league M.V.P. He's facing a weak Seattle defense so you do the math. On Monday night Warner passed for 328 yards and 3 touchdowns as the Cardinals nipped the Niners. The best hope for the Seahawks is to pray for rain to slow down the Arizona passing attack.

2) Donavon McNabb Eagles (Philadelphia @ Cincinnati)
McNabb passed for only194 yards, but he had 3 touchdown tosses against a tough Giants defense. The Bengals aren't nearly as tough.

3) Matt Ryan Falcons (Denver @ Atlanta) Tyler Thigpen Chiefs ( N.O. @ K.C.)
Matt Ryan has been solid all season, and this week he faces a Denver secondary that couldn't cover a receiver with a blanket. Brady Quinn lit them up in his first start, so I'm looking for at least 2 td passes and 250 yards from Ryan. Thigpen is a pick I really like. Last week he burned the Chargers for 266 yards and 3 touchdowns. The San Diego Secondary is a lot better than the Saints.

Running Back
----------------
1) Michael Turner Falcons (Denver @ Atl.)
The Saints did a decent job on Turner last week and he still rushed for 96 yards and a touchdown. Don't expect the Broncos to do that well. I'm looking for at least 130 yards and 2 touchdowns.

2) Frank Gore 49ers (St. Louis @ S.F.)
The Rams are ranked 30th against the run, so don't be suprised if Gore scores 3 times.

3) DeAngelo Williams Panthers (Det. @ Carolina)
Williams ran for 140 yards and a touchdown vs the Raiders, look for more of the same vs the Lions.

Wide Receivers
-----------------
1) Anquan Boldin & Larry Fitzgerald Cardinals (Az. @ Seattle)
Warner has been great this season thanks to targets like Boldin and Fitzgerald. On Monday night they combined for 118 yards and 3 touchdowns. Expect more yards vs the Seahawks.

2) Muhsin Muhammad Panthers (Det. @ Carolina)
Jake Delhomme was horrible last week vs the Raiders tossing 4 interceptions. You can count on him bouncing back this week vs the Lions, and that should work out great for Muhammad and Steve Smith.

3) Roddy White Falcons (Denver @ Atlanta)
The Broncos have already allowed 14 td passes this season, look for White to add 2 more to that total.

Picking Rosenfels would be Sage move

2008-11-04T22:47:50Z

With Matt Schaub out 2-to-4 weeks will a torn MCL, fantasy owners in need of help at quarterback should hurry to secure Sage Rosenfels. This guy always seems to produce. Rosenfels played the second half vs the Vikings after Schaub's injury and threw for 224 yards and 2 touchdowns.
He did have one miscue, an interception in the red zone. Rosenfels has been prone to make at least one really bad decision per start. If he could take better care of the football, this guy could become a no. 1 fantasy options.

]]> Quarterbacks
--------------------
1) Sage Rosenfels Texans (Baltimore @ Houston)
This guy always seems to jump start the Texans offensive. Keep in mind he will be facing a tough Ravens defense this week, but the Texans have a solid passing attack.

2) Joe Flacco Ravens (Baltimore @ Houston)
Staying with the Ravens vs Texans theme "Joe the Quarterback" is getting better and better. Last week vs the Browns rookie Joe Flacco passed for 248 yards and 2 touchdowns leading a big Ravens rally vs the Browns. Flacco might still be available in some of the smaller leagues.

3) If you are really hurting at quarterback there are always the following options, Rex Grossman of the Bears, Tyler Thigpen of the Chiefs , and Byron Leftwich could be starting in Pittsburgh for the injuried Ben Roethlisberger. Also, don't forget Brady Quinn will be starting for the Browns on Thursday night.

Running Back
--------------------
1) Tim Hightower Cardinals (San Francisco @ Arizona)
With Edgerrin James in the doghouse, rookie Tim Hightower is looking better and better. Last week at St. Louis he ran for 109 yards on 22 carries. Hightower is good for a touchdown a game whether he's starting or not.

2) Ray Rice Ravens (Baltimore @ Houston)
Key your eye on Willis McGahee's status, if he's not ready Rice should be a great option vs the Texans. Last week Adrian Peterson burned the Texans defense running for more than a 100 yards, while Rice put up 176 total yards.

3) Jamal Lewis Browns (Denver @ Cleveland)
Don't laugh, I know Lewis only had 49 yards on 19 carries vs the Ravens, but Baltimore has a tough Defense. The Broncos do not. In fact at times they bearly have a defense.

Wide Receivers
-----------------------
1) Brandon Marshall Broncos (Denver @ Cleveland)
The Broncos have been struggling mightly but Cutler and Marshall are due to explode. Marshall only caught 2 passes last week for 27 yards vs Miami, but he did have a 77 yard touchdown called back.

2) Roddy White Falcons (New Orleans @ Atlanta)
White should be an excellent option vs the Saints. Did you see the way the Chargers came storming back vs the New Orleans secondary in London? This game could turn into a shootout. The Saints score a lot of points, but they give up a lot. White only had 5 catches for 54 yards vs the Raiders but don't let that fool you. He should get plenty of chances to make plays vs the Saints.

3) Derrick Mason Ravens (Baltimore @ Houston)
A veteran who goes out and keeps producing. He is the Ravens no. 1 guy and with Joe the Quarterback's steady improvement, Mason's numbers will only go up. Last week he grabbed 9 passes for 136 yards and a touchdown. Look for Mason to be a solid no.2 option on your team this week.

Andre Johnson still hot pick for Week 9

2008-10-29T22:16:37Z

The Texans had many fantasy stars in week 8. The defense was great keeping the Bengals out of the endzone. While quarterback Matt Schaub had a stellar outing tossing 3 touchdowns. In fact, all of the receivers were good but Andre Johnson was great. If you're in one of those points leagues where you can pick any player Johnson has to be in your lineup.
Dre' was the A.F.C.'s offensive player of the month for October. His numbers were staggering, 41 catches for 593 yards in just 4 games. Here are some other players who should be stars in week 9.

]]> Quarterbacks
---------------------------
1) David Garrard Jaguars (Jacksonville @ Cincinnati)
Garrard has shown signs of returning to the "Steady David" he was for most of last season. Last week in a losing effort vs the Browns he passed for 283 yards and 2 touchdowns. But this week Garrard faces a Cincinnati defense that was destroyed by Matt Schaub of the Texans. Everything should work well for Jacksonville this week.

2) Kurt Warner Cardinals (Arizona @ St. Louis)
Warner will be a free agent at the end of the year and he couldn't have picked a better time. He's having a great season, throwing for 381 yards and 2 touchdown in a loss at Carolina. The Rams defense is playing a lot better but Warner has too many weapons to be stopped.

Running Back
-------------------------------
1) Ronnie Brown Dolphins (Miami @ Denver)
Buffalo held Brown to just 43 yards on 14 carries last week, but he has a good matchup this week. Brown and the Dolphins travel to Denver where the Broncos have been terrible against the run. The weather could be a factor since the Dolphins are a warm weather team. But the Broncos looked so bad in their last game before the bye its tough not to go with Brown.

2) Maurice Jones-Drew Jaguars (Jacksonville @ Cincinnati)
Jones-Drew was not impressive last week rushing for only 29 yards on 12 carries. But this week he faces the Bengals defense and that should make everything right for the Jags. Jones-Drew only has 2 100 yard rushing games this season, but look for him to get number 3 this week.

3) Matt Forte Bears (Detroit @ Chicago)
Like Jones-Drew Forte was less than impressive last week rushing for 56 yards on 20 carries with 1 touchdown. But the Lions defense should be one the Bears can run again.

Wide Receiver
-------------------------------
1) Donnie Avery Rams (Arizona @ St. Louis )
Avery was the first receiver taken in the 2008 draft and now he's playing like it. His last 2 weeks have been fantastic. Last week he burned the Patriots catching 6 balls for 163 yards and a touchdown. Avery will be a solid pick if the Rams and Cardinals game turns into a shootout.

2) Ted Ginn Jr. Dolphins (Miami @ Denver)
Ginn Jr. had a breakout game last week vs the Bills recording 7 catches for 175 yards. Denver has been so week defensively Ginn Jr. should be able to have another stellar effort for the Dolphins.

3) Roddy White Falcons (Atlanta @ Oakland)
Thanks in no small part to the development of rookie quarterback Matt Ryan, Roddy white is having a great year. He provides a real long ball threat for Ryan, which has been the key to loosing up defenses for Michael Turner.

Texans should score big in Fantasy Football

2008-10-22T22:43:15Z

For the second straight week the Texans will host a winless team, this time its the Bengals. What that means for is their skill position players should be primed for another solid week.

After missing the Colts game with an illness, Matt Schaub bounced back with 2 sellar outings and the party should continue this week. But he's not the only Texan you should think about starting.

]]> Running Backs
-----------
1) Steve Slaton Texans (Cincinnati @ Houston)
The rookie from West Virginia was quite a find for the Texans. Last week vs the Lions he ran 17 times for 80 yards and a touchdown. This week vs the winless Bengals Slaton should go over a 100 yards and find the endzone twice.

2) Thomas Jones Jets (Kansas City @ N.Y. Jets)
With Brett Farve struggling look for the Jets to place a bigger load on Thomas Jones. Jones seems to be hitting his stride and this week he faces the Chiefs defense. I would not be suprised if Jones topped 150 yards with a couple of scores .

3) Deuce McAllister Saints (San Diego @ New Orleans)
The schedule reads at New Orleans but the game is really being played in London. The Saints have not bee a good road team but I still like Deuce. Reggie Bush had knee surgery on Monday and won't make the trip. This will be the
first really test for McAllister since coming back from knee surgery.

Wide Outs
-------------------
1) Andre Johnson Texans (Cincinnati @ Houston)
If you're playing in a points league and can choose any player you cannot pass on Andre Johnson. The last 2 weeks Johnson has bee sizzling making 21 catches for 319 yards and 1 touchdown. Keep in mind he has the winless Bengals coming to town.

2) Kevin Curtis Eagles (Atlanta @ Philadelphia)
Donovan McNabb is always looking for a go to receiver and Kevin Curtis might fit the bill. Curtis will see his first action of the season returning from a sports hernia injury. Last season Curtis and McNabb just seem to click.

Quarterbacks
-----------
1) Matt Schaub Texans (Cincinnat @ Houston)
I liked him last week and nothing has changed. Schaub will be facing the winless Bengals and should equal his 267 yards passing and 2 touchdowns from a week ago.

2) Trent Edwards Bills (Buffalo @ Miami)
Edwards looked really sharp last week passing for 261 yards while completing 25 of 30 passes. Expect him to do more of the same vs the Dolphins.

Need a Quarterback, Matt Schaub is the man!

2008-10-16T14:59:44Z

Not only did the Texans pickup a much needed first win of the season, quarterback Matt Schaub may have taken the next step in his development into a top flight signal caller. He's passed for more than 300 yards in his last 2 starts. In fact, last week vs the Dolphins he overcame a terrible start which included 2 early interceptions and went on to score the game winning touchdown with 3 seconds left in game.

If Schaub is available in your league grab him. Its not just his 379 yards and 1 td pass vs Miami that makes him attrative, but also the Texans schedule. Their next 3 games are vs the Lions, Bengals, and Vikings "oh my".
Take a look at some other quarterbacks who might be able to bail you out of a jam.

]]> 1) Kyle Orton Bears (Minnesota @ Chicago)
I liked Orton last week and he delivered with 286 yards passing a touchdown in a losing effort in Atlanta. Last week the Lions had some sucess passing vs the Vikings so the Bears should do alright at home.

2) Brad Johnson Cowboys ( Dallas @ St. Louis)
Be very careful with this one. Tony Romo is saying he will play with a broken pinkie finger on his throwing hand.
It really looks like Romo will give it a try, but if he's not effective the Cowboys won't hesitate to go to the veteran Johnson. Johnson will manage the game well, and he does have T.O., Jason Whitten, Marion Barber, and now
Roy Williams to use as weapons.

3) Jeff Garcia Buccaneers (Seattle @ Tampa Bay)
Garcia has a great matchup with the Bucs hosting the sorry Seahawks. Last week Garcia connected on a steady 15 of 20 passes for 176 yards and touchdown as Tampa bay upset Carolina.

4) Kerry Collins Titans (Tennessee @ Kansas City)
If you are so desperate for a quarterback, you're pulling your hair out, Kerry Collins is probably available in most
leagues. Okay, he won't light up the scoreboard, but the Titans face the Chiefs coming off a bye week. K.C. has been awful on defense and it doesn't appear that will change soon.

Week 6 Picks

2008-10-09T01:42:40Z

There aren't many weeks you would look to the Chicago Bears for offensive help, but this could be one. The Bears travel to Atlanta and Devin Hester won't be the only offensive threat.

Quarterback
------------------
1) Kyle Orton Bears ---(Chicago @ Atlanta)
Yes, I said Kyle Orton. Last week Orton was channeling Johnny Unitas throwing for 334 yards and 2 touchdowns vs Detroit. This week he plays at Atlanta and should have a lot of confidence. Plus the Bears defense should give him plenty of opportunities.

]]> 2) Tony Romo Cowboys---(Dallas @ Arizona)
Despite passing for 3 touchdowns vs the Bengals, Romo only had 176 passing yards. He will do a lot better in the valley of the sun. The Cardinals defense is usually pretty bad so expect Romo to put up some big numbers. With Kurt Warner doing the gunslinging for the Cards, this game should be a big shootout.

Running Backs
-----------------------
1) Matt Forte Bears (Chicago @ Atlanta)
The rookie from Tulane has been fantastic for the Bears. Last week he only rushed for 36 yards
but he scored 2 touchdowns vs the Lions. Forte will have his moments vs the Falcons and should be a solid start in week 6.

2) Branden Jacobs Giants (N.Y. Giants@ Cleveland)
Last week vs the sorry seahawks, Jacobs ran for 136 yards and 2 touchdowns. The big fellow should be outstanding again vs the Browns.

3) Adrian Peterson Vikings (Detriot @ Minnesota)
Start A.P.? That's a newsflash. Well, Peterson has struggled lately. The Saints completely shut him down holding A.P. to 32 yards on 21 attempts. Owners Peterson will deliver this weekend because the Vikings are hosting the Lions. In 2 games vs the Lions last season, Peterson rolled to 244 yards rushing and 2 touchdowns.

Wide Outs
-------------
1) Laveranues Coles (Cincinnati @ N.Y. Jets)
Coles is coming off a bye week, so he and Brett Farve should be well rested. Before the break Coles caught 8 passes for 105 yards and 3 touchdowns. I think Brett is learning the offensive and he and Coles are starting to get on the same page.

Week 5 Picks

2008-10-01T23:19:00Z

Lets start with a reminder to all owners. No matter how small your league is you must always check the injury list. The status for players can check late in the week. Last week Carson Palmer was downgraded late in the week and did not play. The following are some players who should be studs in week 5. Including some that might still be
available.

Quarterbacks
------------------------
1) Jake Delhomme Panthers (K.C. @ Carolina)
It appears Jake Delhomme is starting to regain his old form. The Panthers signal caller completed 20 of 29 passes for 294 yards, and 2 touchdowns vs the Falcons.

]]> 2) Kurt Warner Cardinals (Buffalo @ Arizona)
Warner is looking more and more like a good stat man every week. One reason why is the Cardinals defense is so bad Warner and the offense is always playing from behind. Last week vs the Jets Brett Farve stole the headlines tossing 3 touchdowns, but Warner passed for 472 yards. Buffalo has a tough defense, but even if Anquan Boldin is out Warner should flourish.
=====================================================================

Running Back
-------------------------
1) Deuce McAllister Saints (Minnesota @ N.O.)
Deuce was on the loose last week against the 49ers. In his first real action of the year he carried 20 times for 73 yards and a touchdown. He's been recovering from ACL surgery and looked pretty good vs the Niners. He should give the Saints the punch inside they so desperately need.

2) Correll Buckhalter Eagles (Washington @ Philadelphia)
If Brian Westbrook is still out with his bad ankle, Buckhalter should be your man. He's been productive replacing Westbrook and could be available in a lot leagues.

3) Larry Johnson Chiefs (K.C. @ Carolina)
Its time to let Larry play every week. He's looking more and more like the old L.J. and that's great news for Kansas City. Last week he rolled over the Broncos for 198 yards on 28 carries, while scoring 2 touchdowns.
=====================================================================

Wide Outs
--------------------
1) Muhsin Muhammad Panthers (K.C. @ Carolina)
The Moose is back in Carolina. Muhammad and Jake Delhomme are reunited and right now it feels so good. Last week Muhsin burned the Falcons, catching 8 passes for 147 yards and a touchdown. He could have a stellar game again this week vs the Chiefs.

2) Steve Breaston Cardinals (Buffalo @ Arizona)
This guy should be available in your league and he could be a real impact player if Anquan Boldin is out. Boldin suffered a head injury last week. Actually, they are calling it a fractured sinus membrane so the chances are he won't play. Even with Boldin playing most of the game, Breaston still managed 9 catches for 122 yards. As an added bonus, he also returns kicks.

3) Lance Moore Saints (Minnesota @ New Orleans)
The Saints throw the ball so much all their receivers have the opportunity to contribute. Last week Lance Moore turned in a career high 7 catches for 101 yards and 2 touchdown. Second year man Robert Meachem made 2 catches for 99 yards. Both guys are probably available in most leagues.

Week 4 Picks

2008-09-26T03:31:11Z

As always lets start with the quarterbacks. Here are 3 guys who should be prime for big performances in week 4.

Quarterbacks
---------------------
Carson Palmer- Cincinnati (Cleveland)
Yes, there should be a Carson Palmer sighting this week. So far this season Palmer has been a bust with a capital "B". But last week he passed for 286 yards and a touchdown vs a very tough New York Giants defense. Plus Palmer owns the Browns. In his last 5 games against Cleveland, Carson has passed for over 1200 yards and 13 touchdowns.

]]> J.T. O'Sullivan- 49ers (@ New Orleans)
I like J.T. because I love the Mike Martz passing game, plus the Saints defense is not playing well despite all the offseason moves. New Orleans is ranked 29th against the pass. Last week Jay Cutler ripped them up, so why not O'Sullivan. Also this could be a high scoring game in the Superdome.

Trent Edwards- Buffalo (@ St. Louis)
He's playing the Rams, do I really need to say more?

Running Backs
------------------------
Jamal Lewis -Cleveland (@ Cincinnati)
Lewis hasn't exactly been ripping up the league, but we are talking Bengals this week people. In 2 games vs the "Ben-gals" last year Lewis carried 48 times for 308 yards and a touchdown. When your talking about this matchup history usually repeats itself.

Maurice Jones-Drew Jacksonville (Houston)
I hate to even bring this game up. I know a lot of you are a disappointed in the Texans so far, and things could get worse this week. Jacksonville is fresh off a big upset of the Colts. In that game Jones-Drew ran the ball 19 times for 107 yards. He's also a big part of the passing game. Jones and Fred Taylor will be tough to stop and the Texans must slow down the rushing attack to have a chance.

Wide Outs
------------------
Lee Evans Buffalo (@ St. Louis)
Evans will score his first touchdown of the season this week. The Rams are surrendering almost 300 yards per game through the air. They have zero interceptions and I can't think of one reason why that will change.

Isaac Bruce San Francisco (@ New Orleans)
Score one for the senior citizens. Isaac Bruce has been around forever but he still has the wheels. As I said before, the Saints are weak in the secondary and in his last 2 games Bruce has made 6 catches for 172 yards. Plus he loves playing indoors, remember the "Greatest Show on Turf".

One other quick note. On paper rookie Rashard Mendenhall should get his carries vs the Ravens. Yes he's subbing for Willie Parker who's out with knee injury. But you might want to pick him up and save him until next week. Baltimore is ranked no. 3 against the run, and Mendenhall only has 10 carries for 28 yards. However, I really like him. Pick him up and save him for a better matchup.

Pardon the Interruption

2008-09-26T02:38:50Z

Like everyone else in the Houston media, yours truly braved the wind and the rain to cover Hurricane Ike. So this Fantasy Football Blog went on hiatus. I wanted to do a blog on my Ike adventures, but I never had the time or the power. I envisioned the title being "How in the Hell did I get here?, The diary of a Sports Anchor covering a hurricane". It all started out well enough. My first assignment was to man the update booth, alternating with KHOU's version of Dan Rather - minus the southern quips - Doug Miller. I was supposed to provide important facts to Channel 11 viewers. But somehow, during a minute and half visit to the restroom, I went from high and dry in the newsroom, to becoming a poor man's Geraldo Rivera covering the storm. Lovely! Thanks Bill Bishop.

]]> I reported on Coast Guard rescue operations. They were airlifting stranded residents out of Bolivar before the hurricane hit. There was even a dog named Sugar that hitched a ride on one of the helicopters. Then, it was on to Nassau Bay to cover storm damage which included massive flooding. Some of the boats housed in the bay ended up in the surrounding neighborhoods. During the post-hurricane coverage, I did stories on tree trimmers, Centerpoint crews, fence companies, Downtown damage, shelters, and my favorite - traffic. I am sure there was more, but that is all I can remember. Overall, it was an experience I won't soon forget and one I hope none of us will have to repeat anytime soon. There were so many people who lost so much. We can only wish them the best while rebuilding their lives. You always hear about people helping people but I got to see it first hand. Our community was in need and our neighbors stepped up to the plate. For some, the work goes on and will for some time. As for me, I was very proud to be a part of the effort helping our friends in need. Now it's time to get back to something just for the fun of it. Fantasy Football.

Newcomers should shine in week 1

2008-09-05T19:02:07Z

Forget all the talk about Brett Farve not being ready for week 1. First of all the Jets are playing at Miami, so based on last season that should be enough for him to excel. I know he's got new teammates and a new system to learn but this guy will meet the challenge. Farve lives for situations like this one. He should be good for at least 2 touchdown passes.

Meanwhile, Michael Turner will finally get out from under L.T.'s shadow.
The Falcons will be starting rookie Matt Ryan at quarterback and he needs to do just enough to create some room for Turner. Michael showed a lot of flashes subbing for L.T. in San Diego, now he has a chance to come into his own with the Lions. I consider Farve and Turner top end players in week 1.