Hate Mark Sanchez, but Don’t Bench Him

I vouched for this kid. And regardless of many other experts opinions, he made me look like a genius while leading the surprise New York Jets to a 3-0 start.

But I never said this was a Cinderella story. I said this was a playoff team , but I never alluded to the dream that he was a playoff-caliber quarterback .

He’s a rookie, folks. This is what rookies do.

See: Joe Flacco

See: Matt Ryan.

While they both had impressive overall numbers on the season last year, they both also had their share of weak performances. They both also caved in the playoffs. (Flacco more so, but you get the idea.)

The point is to realize that we didn’t give Sanchez enough credit for how prepared he was to start the season, and now when it’s turned around, we’re giving him too much flak now that he’s getting rattled.

Sure, he played without Jerricho Cotchery on Sunday. But that’s no excuse. Quarterbacks don’t play like this. Not unless they have a good reason.

And when Thomas Jones and Leon Washington are combining their efforts for 300-plus rushing yards to help the offense pull itself out of a four-interception hole, there are no good reasons.

Blame the kicker, too. Blame the loss of Kris Jenkins. It doesn’t matter.

As long as you get back around to the fact that the Jets stopped the run, knocked Trent Edwards out of the game, ran the hell out of the ball, only to see Sanchez blow it with the “icing on the cake,” “cherry on top” fifth interception.

But even with all of that information, I still don’t see the argument for a benching.

For what? To save the offense? The team? The season?

With who, Kellen Clemens?

Mark Sanchez, love him or hate him right now, is the best player for the position. He’s the man for the job. But this all needs to be taken with a grain of salt.

He’s a rookie, and just as he led a near-flawless 3-0 charge, he’s now dealing with a horrible, pathetic turnover streak.

But New York, Rex Ryan, he’s your quarterback. Don’t yank him. Don’t bench him. Don’t kill his mojo. Not when what we saw just three or four weeks ago had some of us thinking Super Bowl. Or, at the very worst, playoffs.

The Jets are still 3-2. They’re still a half-game back in their division, and they still have the tie-breaker over New England. And, going forward, they should still have their rookie quarterback leading the way, with an entire city behind him.

Read more NFL news on BleacherReport.com

NFL Fantasy Football: Coin Flip Matchup

(Can Mr. Clean do it again?)

With bye weeks stressing you out every week and one-game wonders causing you to race to the waiver wire, fantasy football can tire you out. In a good way, of course.

Still, sometimes it’s best to look at your own bench on your own roster, rather than panic and try to attempt a foolish trade that only (might) save your Week Six, but could kill the rest of your season.

Take a look at two positions with two players battling it out for one spot, and hopefully it points you in the right direction.

Kyle Orton, QB, Denver Broncos Vs. Matt Hasselbeck, QB, Seattle Seahawks

Both quarterbacks had insanely good stat-lines in Week Five, and both could very well project just as well in Week Six. The trouble is, one plays on Sunday, the other on Monday, and there really isn’t a whole lot separating them to make this an easy decision.

Hasselbeck is fresh off of his first game back in which he tossed four touchdowns, and is going up against a very quarterback-friendly Arizona Cardinals passing defense.

The only real knock against playing Hasselbeck is that, while he should play well, it’s fairly unlikely he throws four touchdowns two weeks in a row. Also, with running back Julius Jones in a rut, the offense would be doing itself a great disservice to not attempt to get him going again.

Orton, on the other hand, tossed two scores and 330 yards last week against the Patriots, and has a prime-time matchup with the San Diego Chargers, who also aren’t great at defending the pass.

Can you say, toss-up?

No, you can’t. Not when you’re sitting at 2-3, need a win badly, and you’re facing the team ahead of you in the standings, and they’re 3-2. This is must-win town, baby. Population: you.

As much as I want to vouch for Mr. Clean and the Seattle offense, I just can’t see Hasselbeck producing like that for a second straight week. Remember the last time this season we jumped the gun and fell in love with Hasselbeck? Yeah, he hurt his back and screwed us.

Verdict: Orton has awesome options is playing a weak defense in front of the nation. You really think Brandon Marshall is going to waste national face-time without wreaking havoc? No, of course not. Run with neck-beard.

Clinton Portis, RB, Washington Redskins Vs. Thomas Jones, RB, New York Jets

Portis is an interesting problem, as he has only had one game that came close to 100 yards rushing, and last week was his first scoring party (although he did so twice). There’s a lot to like from him, simply because his history of scoring and devouring defenses, but also because we know he gets the ball plenty.

But what about Thomas Jones? He, too, hasn’t been a yardage fiend since week one, but has found his way to the end-zone three times in the last two games. On that same note, however, Portis evens himself in this competition due to his recent two scores.

So, then, what separates them? Their competition this week.

The Redskins face a hungry and better-than-advertised 0-5 Kansas City team, and they know how to limit the opposing running back. Jones, on the other hand, faces a 1-4, life-less Buffalo squad that made Jamal Lewis look like O.J. Simpson last week.

Jones won’t be running wild, but he should have a shot at another score or two.

Verdict: Both backs should provide solid numbers with decent carries and their assigned duties in the red zone. Jones, however, offers more opportunities inside the five, as he already holds five scores to his name in 2009.

Like what you’ve read? Go here for more.

Read more NFL news on BleacherReport.com

NFL Quarterback Power Rankings: Week Five

You’ve heard of team power rankings. You’ve heard of power groupings. You’ve even heard of player rankings. But what about player power rankings? Even if it has been done, this list takes a close look at each team’s current starter under center, their numbers from the past week, and offers some analysis as to why they rank where they do. For argument’s sake, only the 2009 season is used for stats, player ability, injury issues, offensive success, defensive support, and team’s record. And it was all computed in under five minutes. Enjoy.

Begin Slideshow

NFL Week Six: Five Things to Watch For

I’ve been saying it since week one, and the theme of this article (and this season) hasn’t changed: The NFL started with a bang in the offseason with its story-lines, and it hasn’t stopped.

Brett Favre and Michael Vick were just two of the many interesting stories to start the season, and while Favre is still a big part of what’s going on it Minnesota and the NFL, we’re now getting very interested in several other stories.

From the Denver Broncos surprise 5-0 start, several teams still struggling to find their first win, to the Manning brothers both being undefeated, there is no shortage of things to discuss and argue over heading into week six.

Take a look at the five top stories this week, as well as some fantasy perspective:

5. Can New England Avoid Another Upset?

I don’t see why not. First of all, their only two losses that were “upsets” happened to come against a very aggressive 3-2 New York Jets team, and an undefeated (5-0) Denver Broncos team.

Tom Brady and co. will be going up against one of the league’s worst pass defenses, and they shouldn’t have any trouble taking advantage.

Fantasy Perspective: Sit New England running backs if you can afford to, but go nuts with Randy Moss, Wes Welker, and feel free to throw-in Joey Galloway and Julian Edelman as low-end WR3’s or decent Flex plays if you’re starving for a receiver.

As for the Titans’ side, play Chris Johnson simply because he’s Chris Johnson, and keep your hands off the rest of the bunch.

4. Will an 0-5 Team Finally Catch a Break?

Yeah, I think so, and possibly more than one. Here are the matchups:

Rams @ Jaguars

The Rams don’t stand a chance against just about everybody (except the Washingon Redskins?), and were awful in the red zone last week against Minnesota. Don’t bank on Jacksonville dropping a goose egg two weeks in a row.

Jaguars 34, Rams 21

Chiefs @ Redskins

Many fantasy experts are saying Matt Cassel will have a hard time against Washinton’s defense. Have they seen him lately? Larry Johnson is almost certainly staying grounded for the sixth straight game, but I like Cassel’s chances if the KC defense can mess with Jason Campbell enough.

Chiefs 24, Redskins 17

Panthers @ Buccaneers

This is where that “possibly” comes in, as the Buccaneers always play the Panthers tough, and Carolina isn’t a great team. However, Carolina’s strength is its running game, while Tampa Bay’s weakness is, well, almost everything. However, they are particularly bad at stopping the run.

Panthers 30, Buccaneers 20

Titans @ Patriots

Another upset special (which you can follow above more closely) could be in the works, but I just can’t see this Titans’ defense stopping Tom Brady and his receivers enough to actually get a win.

It just isn’t realistic.

Patriots 35, Titans 17

3. Can the Vikings Validate Themselves by Beating the Ravens?

Yes, and they will.

The Ravens are definitely a good football team, but a sketchy pass defense and two losses in five games show they aren’t exactly a great football team.

The Vikings, on the other hand, just might be one, and are playing at home.

At this point, are you really willing to bet against the Favre magic?

Fantasy Perspective: Both offenses will find it fairly easy to pass on suspect pass defenses, and mostly because they won’t be able to get anything going in the run game against stout run defenses. Feel free to start Brett Favre and Joe Flacco, and try to choose wisely between their receivers.

Oh, and as good as Baltimore’s defense is against the run, don’t even think about sitting Adrian Peterson. Add how awesome he can be with Cedric Benson’s performance last week, and then divide it by Baltimore. It still might equate to decent fantasy numbers.

2. Battle of the Unbeatens: New Orleans Saints vs. New York Giants

Everyone has to pick a winner, but after dissecting game film and checking updates, rosters, injuries, and stats, most writers and experts are right back where they started:

These are two teams that can run and pass the ball as they please (a rarity), and also have very good defenses. If Drew Brees has any amount of time to throw, however, you have to give the Saints the nod, whose offense has been more impressive on the ground and has the potential to destroy an average Giants’ secondary.

Saints 27, Giants 24

Fantasy Perspective: The Giants will try to run the ball and could fail, but the due diligence will still make it worth your while to stat both Brandon Jacobs and Ahmad Bradshaw. Also, expect Eli Manning and the passing offense to keep flying high against only a so-so pass defense, but do be aware of the possibility of some turnovers through the air.

As for Drew Brees, do you really expect him to go three straight games without a score or under 200 yards? Yeah, me neither. Be careful who you start in the Saints’ backfield, however, as the RBBC situation is more cloudy than ever.

Take a chance on Jeremy Shockey this week, too, as he’ll likely try to get some revenge against the team that traded him away.

1. Can Broncos Prove They Are “For Real” and Go 6-0?

They definitely can. They may or may not be worthy of being called the best team in the league right now, but you don’t hold your opponents to an average of eight points if you’re not a solid team.

Currently, their defense is the name of the game, but the offense is definitely catching up. It’s not that I don’t believe in Kyle Orton, Brandon Marshall, and the rest of Denver’s so-called misfits, but I just don’t see the Chargers blowing a chance to get within a couple of games in a division that is getting very close to being out of reach.

If San Diego blows this game, they can just about kiss division hopes (and likely the playoffs) good-bye.

Chargers 24, Broncos 20

Fantasy Perspective: The Broncos shouldn’t have much trouble helping you out with some nice stats under the lights, but don’t count the Chargers out simply because they’re facing a good defense.

Yes, there’s the possibility Denver shuts San Diego down, but just look at the Chargers’ last prime-time game to see what they’re capable of.

Read more NFL news on BleacherReport.com

NFL Trade Possibilities: Who Needs To Go

There is a lot of speculation surrounding several bottom-of-the-barrel teams, and for good reason.

The Buffalo Bills are reportedly at least discussing trading Terrell Owens, their one-year free agent splash, while the Browns have had to fight-off rumors about parting ways with former franchise quarterback Brady Quinn, and star return man, Josh Cribbs.

There are nine teams that currently only have one win in 2009, or are still searching for their win.

Here’s a look at all nine of those teams, a trade-bait suggestion or two, and some analysis to think about as we head toward the October 20th NFL trade deadline.

 

Carolina Panthers (1-3)

They finally got a win last weak against the Washington Redskins, but even that wasn’t very convincing. They’re in a division with two very solid teams in front of them, and don’t have much breathing room. Like it or not, it’s probably best to start thinking about 2010.

Trade Julius Peppers .

They franchised him, so they know he’s as good as gone either way, so now is the time to get what they can out of him. Just about any contending team out there will at least express some interest. However, considering the franchise tag, everyone knows the asking price can’t be as high as Carolina wishes it could be.

Look for the Denver Broncos to be involved, as well as anyone who wouldn’t mind giving up a high pick or a possible future Jake Delhomme replacement.

 

Buffalo Bills (1-4)

Head coach Dick Jauron is almost certainly out the door by midseason, while many are beginning to question if quarterback Trent Edwards has what it takes to be a successful franchise quarterback.

Trade Terrell Owens.

Their biggest trade tool is their one-year man, T.O., but even he may not generate a ton of interest. Only teams who are competitive, yet completely decimated at receiver will take interest.

However, he’s still a top talent with tons of experience and confidence, so calls will be made, and a trade will at least be discussed.

Look for the Chicago Bears to be the team mentioned the most in rumors, but don’t rule out Minnesota, Washington, San Diego, or even Green Bay getting involved.

 

Cleveland Browns (1-4)

They already got rid of one contract-year problem, so why not ship-off whichever quarterback they’re done using?

Trade Brady Quinn.

Many rumors suggest trading return star Josh Cribbs, but considering how cheaply the Browns have him (through 2012), that would be foolish.

Quinn has just about had it in Cleveland, and for the right price, there will be a team ready to give him a second chance, rather than take their chances with a first rounder in the 2010 draft.

 

Oakland Raiders (1-4)

They don’t have a ton of assets, but they may want to start thinking about getting rid of whatever they can afford to lose.

Trade Darren McFadden.

I know he’s still young and could improve with an upgraded offensive line, but he hasn’t really shown enough to keep giving him chances over backs that have been just as productive, Michael Bush and Justin Fargas.

It’s a bit of a reach, but Oakland could surely generate some tempting offers if they put McFadden on the trading block.

 

Detroit Lions (1-4)

The only players that really give them much of a chance to bring anything back are Calvin Johnson or Kevin Smith, and that won’t be happening.

Trade No One.

Besides, it’s hard not to like what you see in what Jim Schwartz is doing. This team isn’t merely competitive. They’ve tasted victory already this season, and they want more.

Unlike all these other panicking squads with nothing to gain this year, Detroit would be better served to just stand pat.

 

St. Louis Rams (0-5)

The Rams are still sticking it out with Marc Bulger, and their receiving corps isn’t quite as painful to watch as it was last season. However, what they have on offense is getting bullied around by defenses, and a change needs to be made.

Trade Steven Jackson.

He’s still an elusive wrecking-ball that can carve up defenses, but at 26, his aggressive style of play has him one bad move from a season or career-ending injury.

And since his star power hasn’t translated into many wins over the years, the Rams may be wise to just move on and get what they can before he gets smart and jumps ship himself.

Look for teams with troubles at running back like New England, Green Bay, Kansas City, and Cleveland to take interest.

 

Tampa Bay Buccaneers (0-5)

Tampa Bay is in a full-blown rebuilding phase, and by the looks of it, they won’t be competing any time soon. So, if possible, it might be a good idea to stock-pile some picks or add some depth to their atrocious defense.

Trade Josh Johnson and/or Antonio Bryant.

Johnson is starting to show he might have the potential to be something special, while Bryant is hindered by a lack of a great supporting cast and is getting passes thrown to him by a young quarterback.

Johnson will definitely garner some mid-round pick interest, while Bryant, even though he is coming off of a knee injury, is still good enough to help another team out.

Look for any team hurting at receiver to give the Bucs a call, and don’t be surprised if Carolina, Cleveland, and possibly even Buffalo take interest.

 

Tennessee Titans (0-5)

Tennessee is hurting in their secondary and can’t get anything going through the air on offense. They could try to remain competitive by trading for a receiver (Owens or Bryant?), but will likely be turning back to Vince Young within the next few weeks.

Trade Lendale White.

Last week could have been White’s “showcasing”, and with Chris Johnson clearly the guy in Tennessee, he could be shopped for some secondary help or some star power at receiver.

 

Kansas City Chiefs (0-5)

Matt Cassel is slowly coming along, which could mean Brodie Croyle is finally put on the market (for real), along with some other players that aren’t getting the job done.

Trade Larry Johnson and/or Brodie Croyle.

LJ doesn’t necessarily have the first step he used to, and despite facing stiff competition almost all season so far, he just isn’t doing much with his carries. That could be because of his inconsistent passing offense, an average offensive line, or just too many carries in his past catching up with him.

Some desperate team thin at running back will at least inquire about him, so look for New England, Houston, and Seattle to at least explore the option.

Also, look for Croyle to generate interest in Carolina, Buffalo, and St. Louis.

Read more NFL news on BleacherReport.com

Jets’ Danny Woodhead Finally Getting His Chance?

No, you read it right. The little 5’8” running back from Chadron State is getting his first real crack at the NFL. That’s right, folks. An active roster spot, actual playing time, and a shot at proving himself with the big boys.

Oh, but this time it will be at receiver.

Woodhead, who impressed in his final preseason game with over 100 yards rushing and two touchdowns, was signed to the Jets practice squad early in September.

However, until the Jets traded away Chansi Stuckey and learned they could be without starting receiver Jerricho Cotchery, he wasn’t needed. Especially since he wasn’t even a receiver.

While Woodhead was a fan and team favorite, and impressed the coaching staff, he was simply the odd man out as the fourth running back on a team with three solid, proven backs. That, and the fact that he isn’t an elite special teams player, led to his release and eventual placement on the practice squad.

That brings us to this whole “receiver” talk.

Woodhead had been practicing in week two with the practice squad in a “Wes Welker” role, impersonating the Patriots receiver to help prepare the defense. Apparently the role-playing helped more than just the defense.

With injuries and impressive practice work combining their efforts, reports state that Woodhead could be activated this week, possibly placing him on the roster for the Jets game against the Buffalo Bills.

It’s become apparent that Woodhead is much too shifty, elusive, and fast to not be used in this league, while his size and lack of bulk hinders his productivity and potential as an in between the tackle runner.

But all of those positive attributes can be put to good use if his transition from running back to receiver pans out.

With injures to Cotchery and Brad Smith, we could find out as early as this Sunday if Woodhead has a future in this league.

And if you know anything about this kid, you’ll know that all he needs is a chance.

Read more NFL news on BleacherReport.com

Oakland Raiders Options: Let a Fan Play GM For a Day

The Oakland Raiders have problems. And, while I am well aware that is the understatement of the century, it needs to be said.

The next step is acceptance.

However, the awesome thing about the NFL, that short of last season’s winless Detroit Lions team, almost no team has a complete roster full of trash.

We don’t have to get too emotional or over-analytical about this. Cleaning-up this once proud and now depressed franchise is a lot easier that it looks.

Let’s cut the crap, get down to basics, and build a winner:

1. Tom Cable Is Not the Answer

Any guy who smacks around one of his employees is not a good leader. Yeah, he’s tough, a badass, whatever. But he’s not a good guy and a good leader if he is doing that, being accused of it, or even remotely promotes it.

I’m not saying Cable is a horrible coach, because in all reality, he isn’t. He doesn’t have much to work with. But still, he’s 1-4 this year, and wasn’t very good last year, either.

The guy has to go.

So, who’s next, then? Well, they can’t grab a smart, seasoned veteran coach, because, well, they’re all smart. They need a young student of the game, ala Josh McDaniels, or another offensive genius.

They can’t keep getting guys who specialize in defense or special teams, either. Their issue is not stopping or slowing down offenses. It’s having a clue how to present one on the field.

2. Establish an Identity and Stick With It

This is a lot harder than it seems. And really, if they had even remotely decent receivers and a capable quarterback, it’d make the transition from “crappy” to “not-so-crappy” a lot easier.

But before you can even think about the players, you need your coach (talked about that), and then you need to know your philosophy. As they stand, the Raiders have the talent and the man-power to be a run-first offense with a defense decent enough to help support the cause.

But with an injured and over-hyped Darren McFadden, they’re left with…

3. Establish the Running Game

Michael Bush and Justin Fargas are stuck carrying the load, not just of what McFadden left behind, but of Jamarcus Russell and this inept passing offense.

McFadden danced around too much and didn’t hit his holes decisively, and when a runner like that comes out of your offense, it takes a while to adjust to a new runner. Change that; two new runners.

The Raiders need to take a stab at some stability here by actually picking a full-fledged starter, and rolling with him through thick and thin.

If it’s Bush, then great. Only use Bush on regular downs and maybe at the goal-line, then bring in Justin Fargas on third downs and on passing downs.

But don’t add a third back to the mix full-time.

They need to establish continuity, gain momentum, and keep the defense’s attention on them. At least, that’s the only real goal on offense right now with Russell under center.

Regardless, this could mean trading away one of these backs. Like them or not, having a two-back system of Bush and Fargas would be much more effective than trying to have McFadden live up to his draft pick.

4. The Passing Game Needs to Be Reborn

Not changed. Not molded. Not tweaked.

Reborn.

As in, kill it, burn it, bury it, forget it. And start anew.

Russell is boring, bland, slow, ineffective, inaccurate, ugly, and dumb.

He’s the red-headed step-child that lights firecrackers in your nice basement with shag carpeting. He just leaves you saying to yourself, “why? why, kid, why?”

He’s got a huge arm and at 6 foot 6′ inches towers over defense and can see the entire defense with ease. Awesome, so can a flag poll with a rocket launcher strapped to it.

Drop the big idiot and move on. Jeff Garcia would have been a fine move if he hadn’t been insulted. Charlie Frye, God forgive me for saying this, would be an upgrade.

Trading for just about anyone would mean for a parade to be thrown.

Give me Brady Quinn.

Give me J.P. Losman.

Give me Brian Brohm.

Russell is that bad. And it’s not just the offensive line. It’s not just the receivers. It’s a  whole lot of Russell, and that’s the problem.

5. Follow Steps 1-4, and Repeat if Necessary

I know none of this will happen. I know the Raiders won’t keep two solid, productive, hard-working backs, rather than play an over-hyped, athletic, but fundamentally-lacking back that they drafted in the first round.

I know Jamarcus Russell is almost guaranteed another full season of “he’s still learning” and “he has no weapons round him”, and all of those other excuses that allow horrible quarterbacks to have longer shelf-lives in this league than your average undrafted kicker.

Al Davis needs to forget about “measurables,” bitter rivalries, crossed-lines, and the fact that one day, whether he lies it or not, he too, will die.

If he accepts that, perhaps he will finally stop trying so damn hard to not put a quality team onto the field. Lord know the Oakland faithful deserve one.

Read more NFL news on BleacherReport.com

Week Six Fantasy Risers: Wide Receivers

(Collie is a hot target that is likely still available.)

Week five was a huge week for receivers, as several formerly back-up receivers got a shot at major action and never looked back. After we saw guys like Mike Sims-Walker and Steve Smith step up in huge ways last week, it was nice to see more young receivers step out of the shadow of their respective teammates.

You can talk about Roddy White going off all you want (he should do that every now and then anyways) or T.J. Houshmandzadeh finally scoring (twice), but this list is all about the young guys making a name for themselves.

Here are the guys rising up the fantasy relevancy ladder. I’ve also provided their availability in your standard Yahoo! league.

Miles Austin, WR, Dallas Cowboys

Ten catches for 250 yards and two scores will get you noticed. Hell, it might just get Miles Austin a starting gig.

Considering how inept the passing game was before Roy Williams went down with an injury, there’s no chance that Wade Phillips allows Austin to continue working as a third or fourth option. He’s simply way too athletic and packs too much big-play ability to be on the bench and not getting targets.

Don’t expect another 200+ game this year, but his speed and down-field play-making ability will definitely have Tony Romo looking his way early and often as the weeks go on.

Upgrade Austin to a WR3, and downgrade both Roy Williams and Patrick Crayton.

Available in 65% of Yahoo! leagues.

Jeremy Maclin, WR, Philadelphia Eagles

And the phasing-out of Kevin Curtis has officially begun. While Curtis’ weak numbers and absence from the starting line-up are more due to injury than poor play, Maclin still has capitalized on his opportunities, and undoubtedly ensured himself of a bigger role.

What that means for Curtis and even DeSean Jackson remains to be seen, but it’s safe to start thinking about Maclin as an option for your WR3 slot. He hadn’t done much up until his break-out game of 140+ yards and two scores, so it’s hard to hand him a starting job.

However, he at least deserves a roster sport.

Available in 81% of Yahoo! leagues.

Austin Collie, WR, Indianapolis Colts

While everyone was loudly promoting Pierre Garcon for the past three weeks (as they should have), I was quietly nudging you in Collie’s direction. His huge game this past Sunday night of eight receptions, 97 yards, and two scores got him noticed, but it’s his solid play over the past three weeks that should land him on your roster.

Collie has 17 catches for over 200 yards and three scores in the past three games, showing his growing consistency and chemistry with Peyton Manning. It’s also interesting to note that Manning’s former “flavor of the week” was Garcon, and he only recorded one catch against the Titans.

Note: Both Collie’s and Garcon’s value is subject to change within the next two or three weeks with the return of injured Anthony Gonzalez. However, they still hold immediate value and can both be used as dependable WR3’s.

Available in 86% of Yahoo! leagues.

Eddie Royal, WR,  Denver Broncos

Royal hadn’t done a thing worth mentioning in the first four weeks, and then came out of nowhere to haul-in 10 receptions for 90 yards.

He topped his previous season total of receptions (eight) and yards (58) in one game, and with that one solid performance, launched himself back onto the fantasy football map.

He isn’t guaranteed a stay in fantasy relevancy, but with a Denver offense full of potential, he’s definitely a receiver to keep an eye on, and he’s definitely on the rise.

Available in 49% of Yahoo! leagues.

Braylon Edwards, WR, New York Jets

It may not seem like much, but Edwards’ five catches for 64 yards and a touchdown is huge for his fantasy value, as well as the New York Jets.

With Jerricho Cotchery ailing with a hamstring injury and possibly missing some action in the coming weeks, Edwards should see plenty of targets. He could pose as a very attractive option down the field for rookie Mark Sanchez.

We all know how hard it is to trust Edwards with his tendency to drop passes, but his five catches in his first game as a Jet offer plenty of optimism. Edwards has WR3 value right now, but could even surpass Cotchery’s solid fantasy value if everything goes according to plan.

Available in only 12% of Yahoo! leagues.

Hit up TRZR for all of your fantasy football needs.

Read more NFL news on BleacherReport.com

NFL Week Six Fantasy Football Start/Sit

(Do you think he’s ready to face his former team?)

Last week’s Start/Sit column brought you a mediocre 7-8 record out of five starts, five sits, and five sleepers. But Week Six offers much more promise. Take a look for yourself and see if you don’t find yourself in agreement.

As always, mind your bye week players, keep on top of injuries, and be aware of each player’s role on their respective teams.

Start

Brett Favre, QB, Minnesota Vikings

That’s right, I’m hanging your fantasy success on Favre, yet again. As usual, however, this is more than likely only if your best alternative is Matt Hasselbeck (who won’t throw four touchdowns again) or Kyle Orton (who won’t throw for that many yards again).

Favre may have to throw a ton with the Ravens trying to put the clamps on Adrian Peterson. And considering the success we’ve seen out of Brodie Croyle, Philip Rivers, and Carson Palmer, Favre has a realistic chance at 270+ yards and a few scores.

Prediction: 25-33, 311 yds, 3 TD, 1 INT

Clinton Portis, RB, Washington Redskins

If Jason Campbell can learn from Tony Romo and try to use his tight end and stud receiver to stretch the field, then Portis has a good chance at finding some running room.

Despite both teams’ lack of a true offensive identity or any real star power, this could be a blowout for Washington if they’re operating correctly.

Look for them to work hard at getting Portis hot early, and we could see another performance like last week’s against Carolina.

Prediction: 23 att, 109 yds, 1 TD, 2 rec, 21 yds, 0 TD

Randy Moss, WR, New England Patriots

No-brainer, right? Wrong. Moss caught one ball for just 36 yards last week, and has another weak performance on his resume for 2009. It doesn’t help much that Tom Brady hasn’t completely looked like himself all season, and that Wes Welker is constantly banged-up.

But the answer to Brady’s, New England’s, and your prayers is finally here: The Tennessee Titans.

Their secondary is absolutely awful, and it’s never been so visible, as Peyton Manning destroyed them for three touchdowns and 309 yards passing. Expect Tom Brady to do much of the same, with Moss bouncing back with a huge game.

Prediction: 6 rec, 144 yds, 2 TD

Brandon Marshall, WR, Denver Broncos

This is not a receiver you can choose to sit right now. Especially not with Kyle Orton playing so well, Josh McDaniels calling plays for these two to hook-up, and the Broncos facing a very beatable San Diego secondary.

Denver may have a tough time going 6-0, but Marshall is on a tear that won’t be coming to a hault anytime soon.

Prediction: 7 rec, 85 yds, 1 TD

Jeremy Shockey, TE, New Orleans Saints

Call me crazy, but Shockey doesn’t seem like the kind of guy that lets go of grudges easily. And since Drew Brees and the passing game have been non-existent for the past two (thanks to a bye, literally three) weeks, it wouldn’t be a shock to see Brees go off and connect with Shockey to exact some revenge.

Prediction: 6 rec, 68 yds, 2 TD

Sit

Julius Jones, RB, Seattle Seahawks

A few things work against Jones having a successful Week Six. First, the Arizona rush defense looked improved against Houston, as they held Steve Slaton to just 39 yards on the ground.

Second, Jones hasn’t scored more than five fantasy points in a single contest since Week Three. He’s been inconsistent, and despite facing rather tough defenses, he just isn’t getting it done with the touches he’s getting.

That, and he loses more and more work (for whatever reason) to veteran Edgerrin James each week.

Prediction: 10 att, 46 yds, 0 TD, 3 rec, 20 yds, 0 TD

Lendale White, RB, Tennessee Titans

The Titans are officially falling apart, and while it’s not because of their rushing game, their running backs may be the ones who start to feel the ill-effects. That is, at least in the fantasy realm.

The worse this team gets, the more likely it is that Vince Young gets behind center. And if that happens, it could mean a lot of passing in the second halves of games.

Regardless, White is not your answer for goal-line touchdown steals, and despite leading the team in rushing yards last week, he is unlikely to top 50 yards rushing against a solid Patriots defense.

Prediction: 9 att, 34 yds, 0 TD, 1 rec, 6 yds, 0 TD

Terrell Owens, WR, Buffalo Bills

Owens is facing Darrell Revis and the Jets, and he and the Bills offense have not been on the same page since Week Two.

People are calling for Dick Jauron’s head, they should be calling for Trent Edwards’, and T.O. is wondering what he got himself into.

Prediction: 4 rec, 52 yds, 0 TD

Willis McGahee, RB, Minnesota Vikings

McGahee and the Ravens run into a Minnesota defense that has not allowed an individual player to top 100 yards this season, and also haven’t given up a rushing touchdown.

Considering the goal-line is McGahee’s bread and butter, let him sit out the week he faces the “Wall.”

Prediction: 7 att, 19 yds, 0 TD, 2 rec, 15 yds, 0 TD

Darren Sproles, RB, San Diego Chargers

LaDainian Tomlinson’s return was hugein hurting Sproles’ fantasy value two weeks ago, as the over-hyped “star” receiver just one touch, and ended the night with 16 yards receiving.

Not one run? Yeah, and I called it. You can’t trust Sproles as a running back while LT is healthy and playing. You can trust him even less against a stout Denver Broncos defense.

Prediction: 4 att, 16 yds, 0 TD, 3 rec, 20 yds, 0 TD

Sleeper

Matt Cassel, QB, Kansas City Chiefs

I’m not sold on him as a yardage hound, but he’s definitely getting it done with scores (seven) in just four games. He’s bound to come around, as he did last year, and get comfortable with his weapons and his system.

A trip against the Redskins (who are likely to stuff the run game) probably can’t hurt.

Prediction: 21-36, 237 yds, 2 TD, 2 INT

Donnie Avery, WR, St. Louis Rams

Avery would be a near-start suggestion if it weren’t for his idiotic dance after scoring a touchdown to put the Rams behind, 31-10. That’s the personality of a true scrub.

Still, Marc Bulger is back, and Avery has a decent shot at putting up nice numbers against a very weak Jacksonville secondary. Both Bulger and Avery could make intriguing plays in Week Six. However, they are nowhere near safe plays, therefore they stick as sleepers.

Prediction: 6 rec, 59 yds, 1 TD

Torry Holt, WR, Jacksonville Jaguars

Holt hasn’t scored all season, but he has to have a chip on his shoulder as he plays host to his former team, the St. Louis Rams.

While his replacement, Avery, tries to show him up, there’s a good chance the Jaguars get back on track (and actually score this week). Holt could see his best numbers of the year, and has a good chance to score against a weak secondary. With pride and redemption on his side, he’s a solid sleeper in Week Six.

Prediction: 7 rec, 84 yds, 1 TD

LeSean McCoy, RB, Philadelphia Eagles

After McCoy and Brian Westbrook coughed-up a goose egg against the Buccaneers last week, you’d think they could rebound against a Raiders run defense that is somehow worse than Tampa Bay’s.

Yeah, maybe. With Oakland having a solid pass defense, things may turn the other way in Week Six, while Donovan McNabb could be handing the ball off, and Westbrook and McCoy could enjoy huge days. In addition to McCoy as a sleeper, Westbrook should make a fine Flex play.

Prediction: 14 att, 76 yds, 1 TD, 2 rec, 14 yds, 0 TD

Ahmad Bradshaw, RB, New York Giants

Why is this guy still available in 40 percent of Yahoo! leagues? I know he’s facing a Saints defense that has been solid against the run, but few teams run it as hard as the Giants. They break the walls down with Brandon Jacobs, and then let Bradshaw slip through the cracks.

There should be a few cracks to be had, and if you have space for Bradshaw, he could surprise you this week.

Prediction: 9 att, 66 yds, 1 TD, 1 rec, 4 yds, 0 TD

Looking for more advice, tips, and news? Go here.

Read more NFL news on BleacherReport.com

Monday Night Fantasy Updates: Miami Dolphins vs. New York Jets

(Was last week a fluke for Sanchez and the Jets?)

Monday Night Football brings the best out of most teams. Sadly, though, in recent history at least, it rarely does so for both teams competing on the same night.

However, with one exceptional comeback win by the Jets back in the day of Vinny Testaverde, this Jets vs. Dolphins rivalry still has some bite when the lights go on.

But what are we going to see? Is Mark Sanchez going to fold on the biggest stage the league has to offer? Are the Dolphins going to pick-u where they left off last week against Buffalo?

And most of all, is this actually going to be a hard-fought rivalry game; the kind we’ve grown to expect out of the AFC East?

We’ll find out soon enough. For now, here’s some updates and fantasy advice heading into tonight’s final matchup of week five.

 

New York Jets

Jerricho Cotchery (WR)

Cotchery is, in fact, active for tonight’s game, despite the team raising doubt all week long with reports that his hamstring was giving him issues.

He still isn’t an incredibly safe play, as hammy’s can act up at any given moment, but if you’re desperate, he could definitely help you if he toughs out the entire four quarters.

 

Braylon Edwards (WR)

He’s only a week into the system, but coming from an Eric Mangini offense in Cleveland, the terminology isn’t too different. If Cotchery is even slightly slowed down by his hamstring, Edwards could reap the benefits.

The loss of Mark Sanchez’s second receiver Chansi Stuckey also gives Edwards a higher ranking on the target totem pole for his Jets’ debut.

 

Mark Sanchez (QB)

Sanchez is coming off of an absolutely horrid game against the Saints in week for, where he threw three picks, lost a fumble, and failed to generate any points by his own doing.

He should see much more success as he faces a very beatable Miami secondary. If you’re fighting between him and Chad Henne, Sanchez is still your guy.

 

Dustin Keller (TE)

Keller was basically operating as Sanchez’s No. 2 guy, even when Chansi Stuckey was in town. So, if you’re not high on Braylon Edwards scoring touchdowns in his first game, then you could bank on Keller getting more targets than usual.

Miami could try shutting down the run early and force Sanchez into mistakes, but if it backfires and he plays well, Keller could have a big game.

Both Thomas Jones and Leon Washington figure to be obvious starts at this point in the week, unless you have Ricky Williams and/or Ronnie Brown. Brown scored twice and topped 100 yards last week, while Williams also continues to find success. Both are good starts, but they’ll have to work for their points against a solid Jets’ front line.

For the Dolphins’ side and all of your other fantasy needs, go here.

Read more NFL news on BleacherReport.com

« Previous Page — Next Page »

NFL Sport Channel Latest

• Just How Far Would You Go?
• Sorry Rex, But It Isn’t Happening
• Super Bowl Predictions: Five Stat-Free Reasons Why the Eagles Will Reach The Super Bowl
• Seahawks Attempt to Turn Corner With Heavy Pursuit of Pete Carroll
• Bill Cowher Unlikely to Coach in 2010