Giants Keep On Rolling

The Giants defeated Tampa Bay as coolly, methodically and nonchalantly as John Phillips commits incest. Tampa Bay was no match for Big Blue as the Buccaneers played like they were wearing eyepatches and had peg legs and hooks for hands (though that might come in handy on defense). Bucs coach Raheem Morris summed it up best: “We were beat by grown men, a team we want to be like one day. They came in here and took it to us. Out-manned us. Out-gunned us. It wasn’t even close.”

The stats back up his statement: 397 total yards for the Giants, 86 for Tampa Bay; time of possession – 43.38 minutes for the Jints, 16.22 for the Bucs; 27 first downs for the Giants, five for Tampa Bay (and they didn’t get their first one until five minutes were left in the third quarter).

The Bucs cured most of the Giants problems – at least for one day. Red zone issues? Going into the game the Giants were 0-8, but they scored a number of times with ease once they got inside the 20 yard line yesterday. Running game stalled? Big Blue piled up 226 yards rushing, with Ahmad Bradshaw leading the way with 104 yards. Brandon Jacobs gained 96 yards, but still doesn’t look like the Jacobs of last season. Maybe it’s too many two or three yard runs? And he’s not punishing the defense the way he usually does. Defense can’t stop the run? The Bucs had a total of 28 yards rushing. Poor Derrick Ward only gained two yards.

Eli Manning was 14 for 24, with two TD passes, one to Steve Smith and another to Sinorice Moss, who made a nice grab (and it was his first catch of the year). Smith had his third excellent game in a row, catching seven passes for 63 yards. Mario Manningham got into the mix, hauling in four catches for 55 yards. But the ground game led the way yesterday, just like old times.

The O line didn’t allow any sacks for the second game in a row, nor did the D record any themselves, also for the second game in a row. But the defense completely dominated the game, so they didn’t need any sacks. And Terrell Thomas picked up the Giants fifth interception of the year.

Finding any negatives in this game would just be nitpicking. Lawrence Tynes missed a field goal. Kareem McKenzie and Rich Seubert left the game with injuries. The Giants didn’t score a touchdown every time they had the ball. I had a cold and sore throat yesterday. Those are about all I could think of.

You can’t get too excited about this game because Tampa Bay is just not a very good team. But it was the first Giants shutout since October of 2005 (vs. Washington, 36-0) and first road shutout since November of 1983 (23-0 vs. Philadelphia). Big Blue is 3-0 and continues the soft part of their schedule next week when they take on Kansas City.

Read more NFL news on BleacherReport.com

Giants Keep On Rolling

The Giants defeated Tampa Bay as coolly, methodically and nonchalantly as John Phillips commits incest. Tampa Bay was no match for Big Blue as the Buccaneers played like they were wearing eyepatches and had peg legs and hooks for hands (though that might come in handy on defense). Bucs coach Raheem Morris summed it up best: “We were beat by grown men, a team we want to be like one day. They came in here and took it to us. Out-manned us. Out-gunned us. It wasn’t even close.”

The stats back up his statement: 397 total yards for the Giants, 86 for Tampa Bay; time of possession – 43.38 minutes for the Jints, 16.22 for the Bucs; 27 first downs for the Giants, five for Tampa Bay (and they didn’t get their first one until five minutes were left in the third quarter).

The Bucs cured most of the Giants problems – at least for one day. Red zone issues? Going into the game the Giants were 0-8, but they scored a number of times with ease once they got inside the 20 yard line yesterday. Running game stalled? Big Blue piled up 226 yards rushing, with Ahmad Bradshaw leading the way with 104 yards. Brandon Jacobs gained 96 yards, but still doesn’t look like the Jacobs of last season. Maybe it’s too many two or three yard runs? And he’s not punishing the defense the way he usually does. Defense can’t stop the run? The Bucs had a total of 28 yards rushing. Poor Derrick Ward only gained two yards.

Eli Manning was 14 for 24, with two TD passes, one to Steve Smith and another to Sinorice Moss, who made a nice grab (and it was his first catch of the year). Smith had his third excellent game in a row, catching seven passes for 63 yards. Mario Manningham got into the mix, hauling in four catches for 55 yards. But the ground game led the way yesterday, just like old times.

The O line didn’t allow any sacks for the second game in a row, nor did the D record any themselves, also for the second game in a row. But the defense completely dominated the game, so they didn’t need any sacks. And Terrell Thomas picked up the Giants fifth interception of the year.

Finding any negatives in this game would just be nitpicking. Lawrence Tynes missed a field goal. Kareem McKenzie and Rich Seubert left the game with injuries. The Giants didn’t score a touchdown every time they had the ball. I had a cold and sore throat yesterday. Those are about all I could think of.

You can’t get too excited about this game because Tampa Bay is just not a very good team. But it was the first Giants shutout since October of 2005 (vs. Washington, 36-0) and first road shutout since November of 1983 (23-0 vs. Philadelphia). Big Blue is 3-0 and continues the soft part of their schedule next week when they take on Kansas City.

Read more NFL news on BleacherReport.com

Frank Gore Injury Update: High Ankle Sprain, Could Miss Two Weeks

I am neither a 49ers fan, nor particularly a fan of the University of Miami. But I have always been a big Frank Gore fan.

He has a great backstory, which I’ll get to a minute, and is the kind of athlete that you root for regardless of whether he’s on your team or not.

But right now, the big news about Frank Gore is that he is injured…again…and his fantasy owners will have to make alternate plans for the next couple of weeks.

 

Gore entered yesterday’s game against the Vikings already nursing a tender ankle. He attempted to play on it, ran the ball once, and had to limp off the field.

He would not return.

The latest injury update on Frank Gore is that he is suffering from a high ankle sprain and will most likely miss the next two weeks.

San Francisco has St. Louis and Atlanta on the schedule in Weeks 4 and 5. The 49ers have a bye in Week 6, at which point the 49ers hope to have their backfield stalwart back in the lineup.

In the meantime, Gore owners should gobble up Glen Coffee. The rookie out of Alabama made quite a splash in the pre-season and was an early darling of many fantasy prognosticators.

Don’t be turned off by his 25 carry, 54 yard performance this past Sunday in relief of Gore. San Fran was facing Minnesota’s vaunted run defense, against which even the best running backs look pedestrian.

Coffee should find the going much easier against St. Louis and Atlanta, the latter of which gave up over 100 yards and a score to the ancient Fred Taylor this past weekend.

But back to Gore. 

Many people do not realize that had he not suffered two terrible knee injuries in college, America might never have been introduced to Willis McGahee. Gore was ahead of McGahee on the depth chart at The U, but never really got a chance to prove his worth at Miami.

In his senior season at Coral Gables High in Miami, where they play some damn good high school football, Gore rushed for—get this—2,900 yards and 11 TDs during his senior season. He was slated to start for the ‘Canes before knee injuries ruined his college career.

This article by Manny Navarro does a great job of telling Gore’s story.  Here is an excerpt:

I couldn’t be happier for him. The truth is, aside from football, Gore has never really had much going for him. At Gables, he was classified with a learning disorder.

With his mother sick and the rest of his family dirt poor, he was basically their only hope of having a better life. When he went down with those two major knee injuries, I thought he was headed toward a sad story.

I didn’t think he’d be the same running back he was once appeared he was headed toward becoming at Gables. But now, he is the Frank of old again. And not only is his mother benefiting, so are his two children.

Let’s hope Gore’s ankle injury does not linger and that he’s back leading the 49ers’ offense soon.  There is no team in the NFL, other than my Browns (ugh) and Dolphins (ugh), that I am rooting for more than the 49ers this season.

From scrappy QB Shaun Hill to inspirational coach Mike Singletary to Gore, the 49ers have a lot of guys to root for. Their 2-1 start has been one of the best stories of this young 2009 season.

I’ll update this post when I hear any further injury updates on Gore.

**********

* – Frank Gore photo credit: Michael Maloney of the San Francisco Chronicle via SFGate.info

Read more NFL news on BleacherReport.com

Frank Gore Injury Update: High Ankle Sprain, Could Miss Two Weeks

I am neither a 49ers fan, nor particularly a fan of the University of Miami. But I have always been a big Frank Gore fan.

He has a great backstory, which I’ll get to a minute, and is the kind of athlete that you root for regardless of whether he’s on your team or not.

But right now, the big news about Frank Gore is that he is injured…again…and his fantasy owners will have to make alternate plans for the next couple of weeks.

 

Gore entered yesterday’s game against the Vikings already nursing a tender ankle. He attempted to play on it, ran the ball once, and had to limp off the field.

He would not return.

The latest injury update on Frank Gore is that he is suffering from a high ankle sprain and will most likely miss the next two weeks.

San Francisco has St. Louis and Atlanta on the schedule in Weeks 4 and 5. The 49ers have a bye in Week 6, at which point the 49ers hope to have their backfield stalwart back in the lineup.

In the meantime, Gore owners should gobble up Glen Coffee. The rookie out of Alabama made quite a splash in the pre-season and was an early darling of many fantasy prognosticators.

Don’t be turned off by his 25 carry, 54 yard performance this past Sunday in relief of Gore. San Fran was facing Minnesota’s vaunted run defense, against which even the best running backs look pedestrian.

Coffee should find the going much easier against St. Louis and Atlanta, the latter of which gave up over 100 yards and a score to the ancient Fred Taylor this past weekend.

But back to Gore. 

Many people do not realize that had he not suffered two terrible knee injuries in college, America might never have been introduced to Willis McGahee. Gore was ahead of McGahee on the depth chart at The U, but never really got a chance to prove his worth at Miami.

In his senior season at Coral Gables High in Miami, where they play some damn good high school football, Gore rushed for—get this—2,900 yards and 11 TDs during his senior season. He was slated to start for the ‘Canes before knee injuries ruined his college career.

This article by Manny Navarro does a great job of telling Gore’s story.  Here is an excerpt:

I couldn’t be happier for him. The truth is, aside from football, Gore has never really had much going for him. At Gables, he was classified with a learning disorder.

With his mother sick and the rest of his family dirt poor, he was basically their only hope of having a better life. When he went down with those two major knee injuries, I thought he was headed toward a sad story.

I didn’t think he’d be the same running back he was once appeared he was headed toward becoming at Gables. But now, he is the Frank of old again. And not only is his mother benefiting, so are his two children.

Let’s hope Gore’s ankle injury does not linger and that he’s back leading the 49ers’ offense soon.  There is no team in the NFL, other than my Browns (ugh) and Dolphins (ugh), that I am rooting for more than the 49ers this season.

From scrappy QB Shaun Hill to inspirational coach Mike Singletary to Gore, the 49ers have a lot of guys to root for. Their 2-1 start has been one of the best stories of this young 2009 season.

I’ll update this post when I hear any further injury updates on Gore.

**********

* – Frank Gore photo credit: Michael Maloney of the San Francisco Chronicle via SFGate.info

Read more NFL news on BleacherReport.com

Chicago Bears: A Kicker’s Nightmare?

Two weeks, two wins, four missed field goals.

Thus is life for the Chicago Bears.

After an absolute disaster in Week One at Lambeau Field, the Bears have now won consecutive games in large part because their opponents’ kickers have failed.

In the Bears’ home opener against the Pittsburgh Steelers, Chicago won by just three points after the Steelers missed two field goals. On Sunday, the Bears won by six after Seattle’s Olindo Mare missed two field goals of his own.

Do I sense a trend?

Probably not. To expect missed field goals would be a little naive at this point in the season. Indeed, the fact that it’s happened in favor of the Bears in consecutive games is odd to say the least.

There do appear to be some developing trends for this Bears team, though—and they appear to be good trends.

Jay Cutler led a game-winning drive late in the fourth quarter for a second consecutive week and put the Bears in position to win against Green Bay despite his own miserable performance. He’s proving to be worth everything the Bears traded for him.

Rookie receiver Johnny Knox caught another touchdown pass and continues to emerge as a key contributor to the Bears’ pass-happy offense. The sweet irony is that Knox was selected in the fifth round this year with a pick the Bears received from Denver with Cutler.

Devin Hester was very impressive Sunday. His hands, which had been questioned in the past, now appear to be solid, and he’s running good routes. He might justify GM Jerry Angelo giving him a contract to become a receiver after all.

The Bears defense continues to get stops. They did a good job against Pittsburgh last week and made the plays they needed to against Seattle. In fact, if you take away Nathan “I Should Have Been Cut in August” Vasher’s busted coverage on Greg Jennings, the Bears defense played exceptionally well against Green Bay as well.

The only developing trend that causes some concern is the Bears’ offensive line continuing to struggle with run blocking. Matt Forte played a bigger role in the offense against Seattle, accumulating 40 receiving yards and running for over 50, but there continues to be too much penetration on run plays.

Next week the Bears will try to stop the Detroit Lions’ winning streak at one game. Smart money says don’t bet on Jason Hanson to make all of his field goals.

Read more NFL news on BleacherReport.com

Chicago Bears: A Kicker’s Nightmare?

Two weeks, two wins, four missed field goals.

Thus is life for the Chicago Bears.

After an absolute disaster in Week One at Lambeau Field, the Bears have now won consecutive games in large part because their opponents’ kickers have failed.

In the Bears’ home opener against the Pittsburgh Steelers, Chicago won by just three points after the Steelers missed two field goals. On Sunday, the Bears won by six after Seattle’s Olindo Mare missed two field goals of his own.

Do I sense a trend?

Probably not. To expect missed field goals would be a little naive at this point in the season. Indeed, the fact that it’s happened in favor of the Bears in consecutive games is odd to say the least.

There do appear to be some developing trends for this Bears team, though—and they appear to be good trends.

Jay Cutler led a game-winning drive late in the fourth quarter for a second consecutive week and put the Bears in position to win against Green Bay despite his own miserable performance. He’s proving to be worth everything the Bears traded for him.

Rookie receiver Johnny Knox caught another touchdown pass and continues to emerge as a key contributor to the Bears’ pass-happy offense. The sweet irony is that Knox was selected in the fifth round this year with a pick the Bears received from Denver with Cutler.

Devin Hester was very impressive Sunday. His hands, which had been questioned in the past, now appear to be solid, and he’s running good routes. He might justify GM Jerry Angelo giving him a contract to become a receiver after all.

The Bears defense continues to get stops. They did a good job against Pittsburgh last week and made the plays they needed to against Seattle. In fact, if you take away Nathan “I Should Have Been Cut in August” Vasher’s busted coverage on Greg Jennings, the Bears defense played exceptionally well against Green Bay as well.

The only developing trend that causes some concern is the Bears’ offensive line continuing to struggle with run blocking. Matt Forte played a bigger role in the offense against Seattle, accumulating 40 receiving yards and running for over 50, but there continues to be too much penetration on run plays.

Next week the Bears will try to stop the Detroit Lions’ winning streak at one game. Smart money says don’t bet on Jason Hanson to make all of his field goals.

Read more NFL news on BleacherReport.com

NFL Week Three, Where Drew Brees Wasn’t Very Good

Welcome to the answer and question segment of the show.

Here’s how it works. I give you the answer, then I give you the question and you just keep reading along. No thinking involved. Save that for your Tuesday waiver moves—should I really drop Ancient Isaac Bruce for Colts Frenchman, err, wide receiver Pierre Garcon? Yes, yes you should.

And that’s not even part of the answers and questions, consider it a bonus round.

Enough babbling, on to the answers and questions:

Answer: The Buffalo Bills

Question: What dominating defense is going to be able to stop the Drew Brees onslaught? Everybody knew it was going to be a squad that allowed an average 330 yards per game passing during the first two weeks. Gotta love this game.

A: Pierre Garcon

Q: Who will be the next Reggie Wayne? Yeah, I heard it on the TV broadcast but he makes big play after big play. He’s at least the next Brandon Stokley circa 2004 – as the Colts’ No. 3 receiver he had 10 TDs and 1,077 yards receiving. Go get Garcon if he’s available.

A: No-freaking-body.

Q: Who knew Willis McGahee was going to not only be the most valuable Ravens running back, let alone a TD-scoring machine? He’s got 6 TDs in three games. That’s a 32-TD pace. He won’t keep it up, and I’d recommend trading him while his value’s this high, but I don’t see his situation changing that much in Baltimore barring an injury.

A: It’s official, Houston. And he better if he wants a job in the NFL.

Q: Which NFL defense is a fantasy playland for NFL running backs? They gave up 108 yards and 2 TDs to Thomas Jones, who hasn’t sniffed relevance since, in the opener, then got demolished by Chris Johnson in Week 2 and Maurice Jones-Drew in Week 3. They face Oakland in Week 4. Think Darren McFadden will come ready to play? (That’s a two-for-one folks. Value!)

A: Kevin Smith’s shoulder.

Q: What body part could cause the most pain to an NFL team in 2009? Not much info on the shoulder injury, but if he’s out for an extended period of time Detroit will return to the Land of Defeat. Smith’s ability to grind the clock keeps opposing offenses off the field and his own defense fresh.

A: Older than dirt.

Q: How old is Fred Taylor? But for at least one week, the former Florida Gator ran like a young Fred Taylor: 21-105-1.

A: He’ll be a top top WR in 2010.

Q: How good is DeSean Jackson? I shouldn’t need to explain, but 6-149-1 with a bad groin on a slippery field with Kevin Kolb throwing to him should be enough. I don’t care who they were playing against, Jackson is great.

A: Steve Smith

Q: Which Giants receiver is better, Mario Manningham or Steve Smith? I said a couple times in the preseason that Steve Smith would lead the Giants in catches. That still stands, but Manningham will be so good he’ll be kept in dynasty leagues and people will reach for him in 2010 drafts.

A: Somebody told him it was 1995.

Q: What got into Brett Favre on Sunday? The aged ageless one threw 46 passes and finished with 301 yards and two TDs, including the game-winner.

A: Because the Saints are the best team in the NFC?

Q: If Drew Brees got shut down, how did the Saints win? That’s right, answered the question with a question. (Y’know, some people really hate that.) The thing is the Saints running game picked up the slack in a dominating performance, and they’re defense is much improved. I’m just not quite ready to anoint them yet.

A: Julius Jones must feel empowered in fluorescent green.

Q: I touted Julius Jones all preseason, why would he have a solid week against a solid run defense the week I decide to give up on him? I have a feeling we’re going to be sweating every time we start Jones in 2009, but he’ll win some fantasy games, too.

A: Correll Buckhalter, unless (until?) he gets injured

Q: Who will finish the season as the best Broncos running back? His yards per carry are impressive. Knowshon Moreno’s are average.

A: Shredded like mozzarella for on your pizza.

Q: How did the seemingly improved Cardinals defense do against the golden arm of Peyton Manning? I thought Manning would be decent but the Colts would win with the running game. All Mr. DirectTV did was throw for 379 yards and four TDs.

And that’s it for tonight ladies and gentlemen. We’ll be back next week for another answer and question session here at Chinstrap Ninjas. But tune in tomorrow for our box score reviews.

For more columns like this one, check out www.chinstrapninjas.com.

Read more NFL news on BleacherReport.com

NFL Week Three, Where Drew Brees Wasn’t Very Good

Welcome to the answer and question segment of the show.

Here’s how it works. I give you the answer, then I give you the question and you just keep reading along. No thinking involved. Save that for your Tuesday waiver moves—should I really drop Ancient Isaac Bruce for Colts Frenchman, err, wide receiver Pierre Garcon? Yes, yes you should.

And that’s not even part of the answers and questions, consider it a bonus round.

Enough babbling, on to the answers and questions:

Answer: The Buffalo Bills

Question: What dominating defense is going to be able to stop the Drew Brees onslaught? Everybody knew it was going to be a squad that allowed an average 330 yards per game passing during the first two weeks. Gotta love this game.

A: Pierre Garcon

Q: Who will be the next Reggie Wayne? Yeah, I heard it on the TV broadcast but he makes big play after big play. He’s at least the next Brandon Stokley circa 2004 – as the Colts’ No. 3 receiver he had 10 TDs and 1,077 yards receiving. Go get Garcon if he’s available.

A: No-freaking-body.

Q: Who knew Willis McGahee was going to not only be the most valuable Ravens running back, let alone a TD-scoring machine? He’s got 6 TDs in three games. That’s a 32-TD pace. He won’t keep it up, and I’d recommend trading him while his value’s this high, but I don’t see his situation changing that much in Baltimore barring an injury.

A: It’s official, Houston. And he better if he wants a job in the NFL.

Q: Which NFL defense is a fantasy playland for NFL running backs? They gave up 108 yards and 2 TDs to Thomas Jones, who hasn’t sniffed relevance since, in the opener, then got demolished by Chris Johnson in Week 2 and Maurice Jones-Drew in Week 3. They face Oakland in Week 4. Think Darren McFadden will come ready to play? (That’s a two-for-one folks. Value!)

A: Kevin Smith’s shoulder.

Q: What body part could cause the most pain to an NFL team in 2009? Not much info on the shoulder injury, but if he’s out for an extended period of time Detroit will return to the Land of Defeat. Smith’s ability to grind the clock keeps opposing offenses off the field and his own defense fresh.

A: Older than dirt.

Q: How old is Fred Taylor? But for at least one week, the former Florida Gator ran like a young Fred Taylor: 21-105-1.

A: He’ll be a top top WR in 2010.

Q: How good is DeSean Jackson? I shouldn’t need to explain, but 6-149-1 with a bad groin on a slippery field with Kevin Kolb throwing to him should be enough. I don’t care who they were playing against, Jackson is great.

A: Steve Smith

Q: Which Giants receiver is better, Mario Manningham or Steve Smith? I said a couple times in the preseason that Steve Smith would lead the Giants in catches. That still stands, but Manningham will be so good he’ll be kept in dynasty leagues and people will reach for him in 2010 drafts.

A: Somebody told him it was 1995.

Q: What got into Brett Favre on Sunday? The aged ageless one threw 46 passes and finished with 301 yards and two TDs, including the game-winner.

A: Because the Saints are the best team in the NFC?

Q: If Drew Brees got shut down, how did the Saints win? That’s right, answered the question with a question. (Y’know, some people really hate that.) The thing is the Saints running game picked up the slack in a dominating performance, and they’re defense is much improved. I’m just not quite ready to anoint them yet.

A: Julius Jones must feel empowered in fluorescent green.

Q: I touted Julius Jones all preseason, why would he have a solid week against a solid run defense the week I decide to give up on him? I have a feeling we’re going to be sweating every time we start Jones in 2009, but he’ll win some fantasy games, too.

A: Correll Buckhalter, unless (until?) he gets injured

Q: Who will finish the season as the best Broncos running back? His yards per carry are impressive. Knowshon Moreno’s are average.

A: Shredded like mozzarella for on your pizza.

Q: How did the seemingly improved Cardinals defense do against the golden arm of Peyton Manning? I thought Manning would be decent but the Colts would win with the running game. All Mr. DirectTV did was throw for 379 yards and four TDs.

And that’s it for tonight ladies and gentlemen. We’ll be back next week for another answer and question session here at Chinstrap Ninjas. But tune in tomorrow for our box score reviews.

For more columns like this one, check out www.chinstrapninjas.com.

Read more NFL news on BleacherReport.com

Monday Morning Rehab: NFL Fantasy Update

Another NFL regular season weekend in the books and another slew of injuries plaguing fantasy rosters this morning.

After the first two weekends of the regular season, there had not been a major shakeup as in year’s past. Donovan McNabb went down early in week one but gave owners three touchdowns before the exit.

And his was not a season-ending injury, though it did leave his owners with at least a two week void.

More of the nagging, non-season ending variety this week. Fantasy owners should get used to it now.

Several big names did not even suit up for fantasy owners yesterday. McNabb, Matt Hasselbeck, Brian Westbrook, Dwayne Bowe, Jamal Lewis, and Wes Welker failed to see the field.

Next weekend is already shaping up to be more of the same, by the looks of some of this weekend’s injuries.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Frank Gore—RB, 49ers

From RotoWorld:

Gore limped off the field following his first carry of the game and was in obvious pain walking on the sidelines before taking a seat on the bench. Gore often plays banged up, but for now rookie Glen Coffee is in and Gore has been carted into the locker room.

Gore is expected to miss at least two weeks according to sources close to the 49ers. His status will more clearly be known after undergoing tests on Monday.

In the meantime, rookie Glen Coffee should be owned in all leagues. He likely will get the bulk of the work in Gore’s absence and could be a nice flex against the Rams and/or Falcons in the next two weeks.

The 49ers have a bye after those two games, meaning Gore is expected to return by the week seven matchup at Houston.

 

Laurent Robinson—WR, Rams

From RotoWorld:

The injury was originally announced as an “ankle.” An MCL sprain would likely cost Robinson two or three games at least, and an extensive tear might require surgery.

It would be upsetting to see Robinson go down for the season after such a promising start to what was to this point an underwhelming career.

Check back later this afternoon after the Rams have had a chance to run Robinson’s knee through a few tests. Best case scenario is that he misses a few weeks with a sprained knee.

 

Brian Westbrook—RB, Eagles

From FFToolBox:

Philadelphia Eagles running back Brian Westbrook will sit out Sunday’s game against Kansas City due to an ankle injury.

Westbrook did not play and LeSean McCoy starred in his absence. If nothing else, McCoy’s performance against the Chiefs is one more reason why Westy owners need to actively pursue the Eagles’ rookie running back.

His trade value will be inflated this week.

 

Chad Pennington—QB, Dolphins

From RotoWorld:

Pennington landed on his arm after taking a hit and walked off the field holding and flexing his wrist, but the Dolphins are calling it a shoulder injury. The training staff had to cut off his jersey to begin treatment and emergency quarterback Chad Henne got the nod to replace him, so Pennington and Pat White are off limits now.

Chad Henne took over for Pennington sooner than he expected. It was an uninspiring performance by the Dolphins as a whole, who look more and more like the team from two years ago than last year’s 11-5 team.

Early word is that Pennington’s shoulder injury is not serious. Hopefully there are very few fantasy owners actually relying on Pennington’s services this early in the season. His loss could affect Ronnie Brown and Ted Ginn, however, so it is worth monitoring.

 

Wes Welker—WR, Patriots

From FFToolBox:

New England Patriots wide receiver Wes Welker’s knee is apparently not good enough for him to play today against the Falcons. He is inactive for that game.

Go figure: An injured Patriots player quickly becoming a nightmare for fantasy owners.

Welker should not be relied upon in fantasy lineups until he actually suits up and plays a complete game. Word out of Patriots’ camp always is going to be mysterious, so fantasy owners would be better served to stay away if possible.

 

Kevin Smith—RB, Lions

From ProFootballTalk:

Our friends at Rotoworld point out that Lions running back Kevin Smith left Sunday’s game against the Redskins with a shoulder injury.

Smith suffered the injury while being tackled in the third quarter.

Good thing it does not sound too serious. There were glimmers of hope in Detroit on Sunday for the first time in forever. That includes the play of Matthew Stafford.

Stafford did not throw an interception for the first time this season and led Detroit to its first win in two seasons. If he can continue mistake-free football, it bodes well for Smith and fellow fantasy star Calvin Johnson.

 

Dwayne Bowe—WR, Chiefs

From FFToolBox:

As if things could get worse for the Kansas City Chiefs, they will be without the player who is probably their best offensive weapon Sunday, wide receiver Dwayne Bowe. He was hampered during the week due to a leg injury and is officially inactive for the team’s game today at Philadelphia.

Bowe injured his hamstring late in the practice week, seriously putting his status in jeopardy for yesterday’s game. And he obviously was not well enough to play by showing up on the inactive list.

Follow his practice status this week to see if his chances of playing in week four improve. He does, however, have an unfavorable matchup against the Giants next weekend.

 

Marc Bulger—QB, Rams

From FFToolBox:

Quarterback Marc Bulger left Sunday’s game against Green Bay with a shoulder injury. League sources told the Post-Dispatch that Bulger has a rotator cuff injury in his throwing shoulder. He will have additional testing Monday, and if it’s a torn rotator cuff, the injury could end his season.

Few fantasy owners own Bulger in standard leagues. Those in deeper leagues should consider picking up Kyle Boller, who three two touchdown passes in Bulger’s absence yesterday.

 

Donovan McNabb—QB, Eagles

From RotoWorld:

Eagles coach Andy Reid said in his postgame press conference Sunday that he expects Donovan McNabb (rib) to return after the team’s Week Four bye.

McNabb is on schedule to play in the Eagles’ week five home tilt against the Buccaneers. That should be a tasty matchup for fantasy owners to exploit, even if it will be McNabb’s first live action since week one.

 

The MMR will continue to run every Monday morning as scheduled during the regular season. If you have an injury update or want an update on a certain player, please leave a note in the comments.

Thank you for reading the latest post from The Hazean. Please visit our website for more great fantasy content!

Read more NFL news on BleacherReport.com

Monday Morning Rehab: NFL Fantasy Update

Another NFL regular season weekend in the books and another slew of injuries plaguing fantasy rosters this morning.

After the first two weekends of the regular season, there had not been a major shakeup as in year’s past. Donovan McNabb went down early in week one but gave owners three touchdowns before the exit.

And his was not a season-ending injury, though it did leave his owners with at least a two week void.

More of the nagging, non-season ending variety this week. Fantasy owners should get used to it now.

Several big names did not even suit up for fantasy owners yesterday. McNabb, Matt Hasselbeck, Brian Westbrook, Dwayne Bowe, Jamal Lewis, and Wes Welker failed to see the field.

Next weekend is already shaping up to be more of the same, by the looks of some of this weekend’s injuries.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Frank Gore—RB, 49ers

From RotoWorld:

Gore limped off the field following his first carry of the game and was in obvious pain walking on the sidelines before taking a seat on the bench. Gore often plays banged up, but for now rookie Glen Coffee is in and Gore has been carted into the locker room.

Gore is expected to miss at least two weeks according to sources close to the 49ers. His status will more clearly be known after undergoing tests on Monday.

In the meantime, rookie Glen Coffee should be owned in all leagues. He likely will get the bulk of the work in Gore’s absence and could be a nice flex against the Rams and/or Falcons in the next two weeks.

The 49ers have a bye after those two games, meaning Gore is expected to return by the week seven matchup at Houston.

 

Laurent Robinson—WR, Rams

From RotoWorld:

The injury was originally announced as an “ankle.” An MCL sprain would likely cost Robinson two or three games at least, and an extensive tear might require surgery.

It would be upsetting to see Robinson go down for the season after such a promising start to what was to this point an underwhelming career.

Check back later this afternoon after the Rams have had a chance to run Robinson’s knee through a few tests. Best case scenario is that he misses a few weeks with a sprained knee.

 

Brian Westbrook—RB, Eagles

From FFToolBox:

Philadelphia Eagles running back Brian Westbrook will sit out Sunday’s game against Kansas City due to an ankle injury.

Westbrook did not play and LeSean McCoy starred in his absence. If nothing else, McCoy’s performance against the Chiefs is one more reason why Westy owners need to actively pursue the Eagles’ rookie running back.

His trade value will be inflated this week.

 

Chad Pennington—QB, Dolphins

From RotoWorld:

Pennington landed on his arm after taking a hit and walked off the field holding and flexing his wrist, but the Dolphins are calling it a shoulder injury. The training staff had to cut off his jersey to begin treatment and emergency quarterback Chad Henne got the nod to replace him, so Pennington and Pat White are off limits now.

Chad Henne took over for Pennington sooner than he expected. It was an uninspiring performance by the Dolphins as a whole, who look more and more like the team from two years ago than last year’s 11-5 team.

Early word is that Pennington’s shoulder injury is not serious. Hopefully there are very few fantasy owners actually relying on Pennington’s services this early in the season. His loss could affect Ronnie Brown and Ted Ginn, however, so it is worth monitoring.

 

Wes Welker—WR, Patriots

From FFToolBox:

New England Patriots wide receiver Wes Welker’s knee is apparently not good enough for him to play today against the Falcons. He is inactive for that game.

Go figure: An injured Patriots player quickly becoming a nightmare for fantasy owners.

Welker should not be relied upon in fantasy lineups until he actually suits up and plays a complete game. Word out of Patriots’ camp always is going to be mysterious, so fantasy owners would be better served to stay away if possible.

 

Kevin Smith—RB, Lions

From ProFootballTalk:

Our friends at Rotoworld point out that Lions running back Kevin Smith left Sunday’s game against the Redskins with a shoulder injury.

Smith suffered the injury while being tackled in the third quarter.

Good thing it does not sound too serious. There were glimmers of hope in Detroit on Sunday for the first time in forever. That includes the play of Matthew Stafford.

Stafford did not throw an interception for the first time this season and led Detroit to its first win in two seasons. If he can continue mistake-free football, it bodes well for Smith and fellow fantasy star Calvin Johnson.

 

Dwayne Bowe—WR, Chiefs

From FFToolBox:

As if things could get worse for the Kansas City Chiefs, they will be without the player who is probably their best offensive weapon Sunday, wide receiver Dwayne Bowe. He was hampered during the week due to a leg injury and is officially inactive for the team’s game today at Philadelphia.

Bowe injured his hamstring late in the practice week, seriously putting his status in jeopardy for yesterday’s game. And he obviously was not well enough to play by showing up on the inactive list.

Follow his practice status this week to see if his chances of playing in week four improve. He does, however, have an unfavorable matchup against the Giants next weekend.

 

Marc Bulger—QB, Rams

From FFToolBox:

Quarterback Marc Bulger left Sunday’s game against Green Bay with a shoulder injury. League sources told the Post-Dispatch that Bulger has a rotator cuff injury in his throwing shoulder. He will have additional testing Monday, and if it’s a torn rotator cuff, the injury could end his season.

Few fantasy owners own Bulger in standard leagues. Those in deeper leagues should consider picking up Kyle Boller, who three two touchdown passes in Bulger’s absence yesterday.

 

Donovan McNabb—QB, Eagles

From RotoWorld:

Eagles coach Andy Reid said in his postgame press conference Sunday that he expects Donovan McNabb (rib) to return after the team’s Week Four bye.

McNabb is on schedule to play in the Eagles’ week five home tilt against the Buccaneers. That should be a tasty matchup for fantasy owners to exploit, even if it will be McNabb’s first live action since week one.

 

The MMR will continue to run every Monday morning as scheduled during the regular season. If you have an injury update or want an update on a certain player, please leave a note in the comments.

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