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Fantasy Football Notes: Houston Texans
Published: July 16, 2009
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The Houston Texans had a promising 8-8 season in 2008, but it could have been so much better, which is one reason there is a plethora of optimism surrounding the team right now.
Houston lost four of its games by a total of 20 points, including an overtime loss to Jacksonville in Week Four, and a 31-27 loss to the Indianapolis Colts in Week Five in which the Texans allowed 21 fourth-quarter points and saw Sage Rosenfels snatch defeat from the jaws of victory with costly turnovers.
Despite the team just missing out on success as a group, some individuals were able to bring success to many fantasy football owners.
Rookie running back, Steve Slaton, overachieved in the eyes of virtually everyone, rushing for 1,282 yards, catching 50 passes, and scoring 10 times, while providing weekly consistency to his owners.
Wide receiver Andre Johnson performed similarly, with a total of six games with at least 10 catches en route to an eight touchdown, 115-catch, 1,575-yard season.
KEY ADDITIONS
Cato June (LB) & Antonio Smith (DE) – For all of their offensive skill, the Texans have long been lagging on the defensive side of the ball. Their ranking of 22nd in total defense last season was the highest in the expansion franchise’s history, so it would only be natural that they continue to work on improving that area.
Thus, in the offseason they signed free agent Cato June to play linebacker and free agent Antonio Smith to be in the rotation at defensive end. At the other defensive end spot, Mario Williams is proving everyone who lambasted the Texans for selecting him instead of Reggie Bush wrong.
Yet, he desperately needs someone else to take the pressure off of him, so he isn’t the only consistent pass-rushing threat. The Texans are hoping Smith and June can help in that area.
KEY DEPARTURES
Sage Rosenfels (QB) – To an untrained eye, it would seem a bit of a stretch to lament the loss of a team’s backup quarterback, and though it’s true Sage Rosenfels had some struggles, he was a competent No. 2 option who has a chance to earn the starting job in Minnesota.
The problem also lies in the fact that Houston quarterback Matt Schaub has had problems staying healthy the last two seasons. He’s played a total of just 22 out of 32 games.
If trouble befalls Schaub this season, the team will be relying on former Lion Dan Orlovsky, who might be best known for unknowingly running out of the end zone for a safety in a game against the Vikings last season.
ROOKIE TO WATCH
Brian Cushing (LB) – As previously mentioned, the Texans have had a teeny problem stopping the opposition from scoring, so they not only addressed the problem via free agency, but also through the draft as well, selecting former USC linebacker Brian Cushing with their first-round pick.
There’s little reason to think Cushing won’t be in the starting lineup come Week One, as the team’s linebacking corps needs an infusion of talent to play alongside DeMeco Ryans in the middle.
BRUNO BOYS SPOTLIGHT
Steve Slaton (RB) – The question surrounding running back Steve Slaton is: Can he do it again?
People point to his relatively small frame as being an issue, but considering how well he held up last year, there’s little reason to think in just his second year, he’ll begin to wear down.
There is no particularly relevant backup with Houston, so fantasy owners should be confident in selecting Slaton in 2009 fantasy drafts.
Matt Schaub (QB) – With Matt Schaub, it all comes down to health. He’s an intriguing option considering the weapons he has at his disposal and the steady development he’s shown as an NFL quarterback, but none of that will matter if he can’t stay on the field.
Drafting him as a QB1 is a huge risk, but there are few better potential QB2s.
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2009 Fantasy Football Rankings Top 150
Published: July 15, 2009
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While the Bruno Boys have worked endless nights to provide you with the most up-to-date fantasy football rankings in our 2009 Fantasy Football Rankings Webazine (click to download), we know that this is not enough.
Yes, fantasy football positional rankings are an extremely valuable tool and one you must have on draft day if you hope to contend for your fantasy football league’s championship, but we also know that unless you’re in a quirky league, you won’t be involved in a draft that forces its owners to take a QB in Round One, a RB in Round Two, a WR in Round Three, and so on.
Thus, you need a guide that maps out where certain running backs stack up against certain wide receivers, where tight ends measure with team defenses, etc.
That, Bruno Boys Nation, is where the Bruno Boys 2009 Fantasy Football Rankings Top 150 comes in handy.
Click “Full Story” to read…
2009 Fantasy Football Rankings Top 150
1. Adrian Peterson (Min)
2. Michael Turner (Atl)
3. Matt Forte (Chi)
4. Maurice Jones-Drew (Jax)
5. Steven Jackson (StL)
6. DeAngelo Williams (Car)
7. LaDainian Tomlinson (SD)
8. Brian Westbrook (Phi)
9. Larry Fitzgerald (Ari)
10. Chris Johnson (Ten)
11. Clinton Portis (Was)
12. Frank Gore (SF)
13. Steve Slaton (Hou)
14. Andre Johnson (Hou)
15. Drew Brees (NO)
16. Brandon Jacobs (NYG)
17. Marion Barber (Dal)
18. Randy Moss (NE)
19. Ryan Grant (GB)
20. Calvin Johnson (Det)
21. Kevin Smith (Det)
22. Ronnie Brown (Mia)
23. Peyton Manning (Ind)
24. Reggie Wayne (Ind)
25. Steve Smith (Car)
26. Roddy White (Atl)
27. Marshawn Lynch (Buf)
28. Thomas Jones (NYJ)
29. Pierre Thomas (NO)
30. Greg Jennings (GB)
31. Tom Brady (NE)
32. Joseph Addai (Ind)
33. Darren McFadden (Oak)
34. Anquan Boldin (Ari)
35. Marques Colston (NO)
36. Philip Rivers (SD)
37. Aaron Rodgers (GB)
38. Kurt Warner (Ari)
39. Brandon Marshall (Den)
40. Terrell Owens (Buf)
41. Wes Welker (NE)
42. Dwayne Bowe (KC)
43. LenDale White (Ten)
44. Larry Johnson (KC)
45. T.J. Houshmandzadeh (Sea)
46. Roy Williams (Dal)
47. Antonio Bryant (TB)
48. Reggie Bush (NO)
49. Donovan McNabb (Phi)
50. Tony Romo (Dal)
51. Vincent Jackson (SD)
52. Jason Witten (Dal)
53. Jonathan Stewart (Car)
54. Tony Gonzalez (Atl)
55. Antonio Gates (SD)
56. Jay Cutler (Chi)
57. Willie Parker (Pit)
58. Derrick Ward (TB)
59. Cedric Benson (Cin)
60. Chris Wells (Ari)
61. Dallas Clark (Ind)
62. Matt Ryan (Atl)
63. Braylon Edwards (Cle)
64. DeSean Jackson (Phi)
65. Chad Ochocinco (Cin)
66. Knowshon Moreno (Den)
67. Jamal Lewis (Cle)
68. Lee Evans (Buf)
69. Santonio Holmes (Pit)
70. Hines Ward (Pit)
71. Donald Brown (Ind)
72. Bernard Berrian (Min)
73. Carson Palmer (Cin)
74. Matt Schaub (Hou)
75. Anthony Gonzalez (Ind)
76. Santana Moss (Was)
77. Jerricho Cotchery (NYJ)
78. Lance Moore (NO)
79. Eddie Royal (Den)
80. Donald Driver (GB)
81. Laveranues Coles (Cin)
82. Julius Jones (Sea)
83. Willis McGahee (Bal)
84. Ray Rice (Bal)
85. Ben Roethlisberger (Pit)
86. Matt Cassel (KC)
87. Felix Jones (Dal)
88. Earnest Graham (TB)
89. Tim Hightower (Ari)
90. Kevin Walter (Hou)
91. Donnie Avery (StL)
92. Owen Daniels (Hou)
93. Chris Cooley (Was)
94. Darren Sproles (SD)
95. Torry Holt (Jax)
96. Steve Breaston (Ari)
97. Derrick Mason (Bal)
98. Devin Hester (Chi)
99. Kellen Winslow (TB)
100. Ted Ginn Jr. (Mia)
101. Rashard Mendenhall (Pit)
102. Michael Crabtree (SF)
103. Chester Taylor (Min)
104. Ahmad Bradshaw (NYG)
105. Matt Hasselbeck (Sea)
106. Greg Olsen (Chi)
107. Deion Branch (Sea)
108. Chris Chambers (SD)
109. Pittsburgh Steelers
110. Eli Manning (NYG)
111. Kyle Orton (Den)
112. LeRon McClain (Bal)
113. Fred Jackson (Buf)
114. Fred Taylor (NE)
115. John Carlson (Sea)
116. Patrick Crayton (Dal)
117. Justin Gage (Ten)
118. Jerious Norwood (Atl)
119. Leon Washington (NYJ)
120. Baltimore Ravens
121. Trent Edwards (Buf)
122. LeSean McCoy (Phi)
123. Ricky Williams (Mia)
124. Muhsin Muhammad (Car)
125. Domenik Hixon (NYG)
126. Sammy Morris (NE)
127. Isaac Bruce (SF)
128. Zach Miller (Oak)
129. Kevin Curtis (Phi)
130. Jamaal Charles (KC)
131. Michael Jenkins (Atl)
132. Laurence Maroney (NE)
133. Jeremy Maclin (Phi)
134. Mark Clayton (Bal)
135. Visanthe Shiancoe (Min)
136. New York Giants
137. Jake Delhomme (Car)
138. David Garrard (Jax)
139. Dustin Keller (NYJ)
140. Justin Fargas (Oak)
141. Correll Buckhalter (Den)
142. Shonn Greene (NYJ)
143. Michael Bush (Oak)
144. Devery Henderson (NO)
145. Percy Harvin (Min)
146. Josh Morgan (SF)
147. Steve Smith (NYG)
148. Nate Washington (Ten)
149. Chad Pennington (Mia)
150. Philadelphia Eagles
Rankings are Based on Standard Scoring Leagues
4 Points Per Passing TDs
25 Passing Yards = 1 Point
6 Points For All Other TDs
10 Rushing/Receiving Yards = 1 Point
-2 Points For All Turnovers
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Fantasy Football Notes: Detroit Lions
Published: July 15, 2009
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To call the 2008 Detroit Lions a disappointment would be an extreme understatement.
The Lions became the first team to go winless since the league expanded its schedule to a 16 game regular season in 1978. The 0-16 campaign took many casualties along the way.
The first victim was team president and general manager Matt Millen, who was fired in September during his eighth season running football operations in Detroit. The Lions compiled a dismal 31-97 record since Millen was hired in 2001, which is the worst NFL franchise record over an eight-year period since World War II.
At the end of the season, the Lions also fired head coach Rod Marinelli and most of his staff. Marinelli was hired as the Lions’ head coach in 2006 after spending 10 seasons as the defensive line coach for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, but he had never been a head coach or even a defensive coordinator prior to his stint with Detroit.
In three seasons as the Lions head coach, Marinelli compiled a pathetic 10-38 record. Despite the ugliness of it all, there were a few bright spots to the Lions’ 2008 season.
Wide receiver Calvin Johnson showed why he was the second pick in the 2007 NFL draft, catching 78 passes for 1,331 yards with 12 touchdowns. Meanwhile, rookie running back Kevin Smith showed a lot of promise as he had 238 carries for 976 yards with eight touchdowns.
Both Johnson and Smith’s numbers are even more impressive when you consider that the Lions had a patchwork offensive line and started three different quarterbacks. Both players should be significant fantasy contributors in 2009.
KEY ADDITIONS
Jim Schwartz (HC)-With the Rod Marinelli era finally coming to an end in Detroit, the Lions hired Jim Schwartz as their new head coach. Schwartz, like Marinelli, has never been an NFL head coach, but has been an assistant to some of the league’s best coaches in Jeff Fisher and Bill Belichick.
He has also built a solid staff, adding Scott Linehan as offensive coordinator and Gunther Cunningham as defensive coordinator. The Bruno Boys feel this is a solid hire, but Schwartz definitely has a lot of work ahead of him in Detroit.
Bryant Johnson (WR)-After trading Roy Williams to the Dallas Cowboys during the 2008 season, the Lions needed to find a compliment to Calvin Johnson at wide receiver.
To do so, they signed former Arizona Cardinal and San Francisco 49er Bryant Johnson as a free agent to fill that role. B. Johnson has never lived up to expectations early in his career and has never topped 50 receptions in a season.
In 2008, he had 45 catches for 546 yards and three touchdowns with the 49ers. Consider B. Johnson a low-end WR3 or WR4 heading into 2009, but with C. Johnson receiving most of the attention, he may get a chance to shine.
KEY DEPARTURES
Dan Orlovsky (QB)-Orlovsky left the Detroit Lions as a free agent and signed with the Houston Texans to be the backup to Matt Schaub. Orlovsky was a fifth round draft pick of the Lions in 2005 out of the University of Connecticut.
He played in 10 games for the Lions in 2008 and passed for 1,616 yards with eight touchdowns and eight interceptions.
Jon Kitna (QB)-After spending most of the 2008 season on injured reserve with back issues, Kitna was traded during the offseason to the Dallas Cowboys for cornerback, Anthony Henry.
Kitna is an 11-year NFL veteran and played the last three seasons in Detroit. In his career, he has thrown for 27,293 yards with 152 touchdowns and 151 interceptions.
In Dallas, Kitna will be the primary backup to Tony Romo.
ROOKIES TO WATCH
Matthew Stafford (QB)-With the first pick in the 2009 NFL draft, the Detroit Lions selected University of Georgia quarterback Matthew Stafford, who signed a six year deal with the club.
This deal could total up to $78 million and has $41.7 million in guaranteed money, the most money ever guaranteed in a contract in NFL history.
Not bad for a guy who might not even be the team’s opening day starter. Stafford will battle veteran Daunte Culpepper for the Lions’ starting quarterback job in training camp.
Even if Stafford beats out Culpepper and is the Lions’ starting quarterback at the beginning of the year, do not overvalue Stafford based on the rookie seasons of Matt Ryan of the Atlanta Falcons and Joe Flacco of the Baltimore Ravens in 2008.
Both the Falcons and Ravens had much better supporting casts than the Lions. Stafford should be nothing more than a late round flier as a QB3 with hopes of catching lightning in a bottle.
Brandon Pettigrew (TE)-The Lions used their second first round pick, No. 20 overall, on Oklahoma State tight end Brandon Pettigrew. This is the pick the Lions acquired when they traded wide receiver Roy Williams to the Dallas Cowboys during the 2008 season.
The 6’5″, 263 pound Pettigrew is an excellent blocker with good pass catching ability. The Lions feel that not only will he help the offensive line in run and pass protection, but they also expect him to be an excellent safety valve for the quarterback as a short yardage target.
Pettigrew may be worth a late round flier as a TE2 in leagues that carry two tight ends on their roster. Keep your fantasy expectations low, though, as he had just 42 receptions for 472 yards in his senior season at OSU and did not record a touchdown.
BRUNO BOYS SPOTLIGHT
Kevin Smith (RB)-Smith enters his second NFL season as the clear cut No. 1 running back in Detroit. He had a solid rookie season in 2008 with 238 carries for 976 yards with eight touchdowns, which are very solid numbers for a rookie running back on a 0-16 team.
The Lions are expected to be more of a power running team in new offensive coordinator Scott Linehan’s offense, which suits Smith’s style very well. He is a versatile running back, who also had 39 receptions for 286 yards last season.
Smith had eight runs of 20 yards or more, and is a dependable runner who only lost one fumble in his rookie season. Consider Smith a low-end RB2 who has the potential to put up big numbers if the Lions can ever turn things around.
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Under the Radar Fantasy Football Wide Receivers
Published: July 15, 2009
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Looking for sleepers in your draft come August?
Bruno Boys Greg will analyze who he feels should have a strong fantasy football showing in 2009, giving you his position by position under the radar picks over the next few weeks.
These are players who won’t be highly touted on draft day, but should produce at a level higher than their average draft position. This week, he covers the WIDE RECEIVER position.
Chad Ochocinco (Cincinnati Bengals)—I’m sure you think I have a love for the Bengals, with me recommending both the Bengals’ Carson Palmer and Cedric Benson in previous articles, and now going with Ochocinco.
But this is a team that (not too long ago) was used to putting up a ton of points and yards year in and year out. 2008 simply was a bump in the road, a season in which anything that could go wrong did go wrong.
Ochocinco seems to have his head on straight going into 2009, and if he plays hard for an entire season, should be a strong WR2. The great thing is, he will likely be had somewhere in the sixth round at the earliest, which means you will get a stud receiver at a great bargain price.
Earl Bennett (Chicago Bears)—The second year receiver out of Vanderbilt will be catching passes from his old teammate in 2009, Jay Cutler.
He didn’t see any time last year, but with Chicago not having any receiver prospects, Bennett could be an interesting sleeper this season thanks to the existing rapport he has with the team’s new signal caller.
You will be able to grab him in the last couple rounds, making him a low risk, big reward type player.
Keenan Burton (St. Louis Rams)—Everyone might be high on Donnie Avery for the Rams, thanks to a strong rookie campaign last year and the release of Torry Holt that launches Avery into the No. 1 slot for St. Louis, but perhaps it’s Burton that fantasy owners should be targeting.
Currently locked in a battle with Laurent Robinson for the team’s No. 2 wide receiver position, Burton should come out on top thanks to his superior talent.
If that’s the case, this second year receiver out of Kentucky will see a lot more balls thrown his way, and if the Rams can keep quarterback Marc Bulger upright, could see a big jump in numbers.
While he may not put up superstar numbers, he will be a guy who can be drafted in the last couple rounds who will make for a good bye week filler or injury replacement.
For more fantasy football insight and advice, click the link below…
What To Expect From Ladainian Tomlinson in 2009
Published: July 13, 2009
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One of the hot topics of the fantasy football world this offseason has been LaDainian Tomlinson and what kind of production to expect from him in 2009.
I drafted him last year, and it was quite the roller coaster ride. One of the golden rules of fantasy football is to always play your studs, but I’ll admit that I benched him a few times last year out of frustration. Doing that cost me two games, but leaving him in my lineup cost me a few, as well. You’re damned if you do, damned if you don’t sometimes.
A lot of the 2008 owners of LT have been saying either – “He will return to glory in 2009 because he is ‘The Man’”, or, “He cost me my season last year and I’ll never have him on my team again.” Both of those sentiments are illogical and are not the right philosophy to have when playing fantasy football regardless of the player.
After each season, you reevaluate each and every player, some go up and some go down. 2008 was the year when LT finally dropped down a notch and everyone hit the panic button.
In standard scoring fantasy football leagues, LT finished sixth among RBs, with 1,110 yards, 12 total tds and he just missed 300 carries at 292. He also had 52 receptions for 426 yards. If somebody with a name other than Tomlinson posted season totals like this, everybody would be happy with that kind of production. But that’s not good enough for LT, right?
On the flip side of those totals, he had three of those 12 touchdowns in week 17. He only hit 100 yards rushing in two contests and had five games where he rushed for fewer than 45 yards rushing.
What’s more critical to be aware of other than just looking at LT’s numbers is the emergence of Darren Sproles. Sproles became more and more valuable to the San Diego Chargers’ offense as the season wore on. You could easily tell the difference between the two as LT looked sluggish nearly all season, while Sproles was like a burst of lightning.
Is Sproles going to overtake LT on the depth chart? Absolutely not, and I don’t think you can even compare this duo to what the Carolina Panthers have in DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart.
However, Sproles’ role on this team deters Tomlinson’s fantasy value, unfortunately. At 30 years old, and having been injured the past two seasons, LT can no longer be the backbone of this offense. He is still the focal point, but he can’t do it all by himself anymore. Sproles is there to keep LT fresh by taking a lot of the hand-offs and receptions that used to go to Tomlinson. If LT is tired or sore, Norv Turner shouldn’t think twice about telling him to sit and putting Sproles in there for as long as need be.
To put it simply—Turner and the Chargers don’t need LT to rack up the yardage and TDs like he used to since they have Sproles and a potent passing attack now, but they will need LT to be productive for the team to be a Super Bowl contender. They’re going to have to keep him as fresh and healthy as possible for the playoff push and the postseason.
Besides nearly cutting ties with LT during the off-season, Turner has made it clear that LT is still the main man in this running attack. I believe Turner when he says that, but I think he’s crazy if he expect LT to get between 300-325 carries. Something tells that he’s just trying to keep his star happy.
You have to remember that back when LT was dominating in years past, San Diego’s offense was designed for him to succeed—meaning it was a run-first offense. He had Michael Turner as his sidekick, like Sproles, but he also had fullback Lorenzo Neal paving the way for him. It’s pretty evident that the lack of Turner and especially Neal has hurt Tomlinson.
In addition, the Chargers’ passing game wasn’t much of a threat back then. Sure they’ve had all-pro tight end Antonio Gates, but until last year, the WR core has been pretty weak in San Diego.
That all changed after last season when Phillip Rivers had an outstanding season under center. Rivers has multiple weapons to throw to—Chris Chambers, Vincent Jackson, Gates, and Malcolm Floyd as the deep threat. This new dynamic makes San Diego’s offense a lot more balanced, if not a pass-first offense now.
All that adds up to fewer carries for LT. Still a threat as a receiver, LT had 78 catches in 2008, while Sproles had 34. I think LT will have more chances than Sproles in ’09, but the gap will be tighter.
The schedule shouldn’t make a huge impact in which players you draft, but it is always something to take into consideration. The Chargers don’t exactly have an easy road ahead of him in 2009. They will be headed to Pittsburgh, New York (Giants), Dallas, and Tennessee. They also have Baltimore and Washington coming to Qualcomm Stadium.
So now for the ultimate question—where should you target LT in your draft?
As always, you need to draft based on your scoring system and the way your opponents are drafting around you. For arguments sake, I personally think LT should go early in the second round. In a 10-team league, Larry Fitzgerald and maybe Drew Brees will be drafted in the first round. There are easily eight other running backs that I personally would take over Tomlinson (Adrian Peterson, Matt Forte, Michael Turner, Maurice Jones-Drew, Chris Johnson, Steven Jackson, Steve Slaton, and Frank Gore).
The first four on my list don’t need to be defended. Chris Johnson is the Tennessee Titans’ offense plain and simple, like LT had recently been in San Diego, despite Lendale White vulturing some TDs. Although Steven Jackson and Frank Gore each have some injury issues, those two offenses are designed to run the ball, neither of those RBs have either a handcuff or are part of an RBBC, and age isn’t a factor yet for those two. Steve Slaton doesn’t have a handcuff or an RBBC, as well, and given what he did as a rookie, I think he could have a breakout season in 2009.
After all those guys, I clump LT in there with Clinton Portis, Brian Westbrook, DeAngelo Williams, Brandon Jacobs, and Marion Barber, with Williams being the best in that pack.
My advice to those of you debating on LT is that he would be an excellent second running back. If you want him as your starter, don’t wait too long to fill out your depth at RB.
Tomlinson is one of the greatest fantasy football players of all time. You couldn’t ask for anything more from an RB when he was in his prime. It appears as though those days may be over. You can’t be married to the name because of what he used to do in the past.
However, what’s left now is still a very good fantasy football player. He just isn’t as good as he used to be. He isn’t getting any younger and he’s only going to be more prone to injury.
Don’t expect him to go back to his old form from 2006, but hoping for similar totals to 2008 is a definite possibility.
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2009 Position Battles to Watch: Running Backs
Published: July 13, 2009
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With the ever popular running back by committee (RBBC) sprouting up everywhere in the NFL, it seems a bit preposterous that running-back battles still exist. After all, the RBBC makes the NFL seem a bit like Pop Warner—anyone who wants to carry the ball will get a turn.
Still, favoritism exists, as there are glory roles to occupy in the RBBC, including the titles of goal-line back and primary carrier. Thus, the Bruno Boys bring to you today a look at some of the battles brewing as we get set for the preseason.
ARIZONA CARDINALS—Tim Hightower vs. Chris “Beanie” Wells
Had Hightower posted a decent average yards per carry number in 2008 to go along with his 10 TD’s on the season, this battle would have been avoided.
But, the back faltered when given his chance to secure the starting role, amassing just 2.8 ypc out of the Arizona backfield. Hightower’s inability to rack up the yards led the Cardinals to select Wells with their first-round pick in the 2009 NFL Draft.
While the team will most likely line up Hightower as the starting back in Week One, it won’t be long until Wells, who has the better talent, surpasses him on the depth chart. Hightower, though, should remain fantasy relevant thanks to his goal-line prowess.
BALTIMORE RAVENS—Willis McGahee vs. LeRon McClain vs. Ray Rice
Oh, what a difference a year makes!
Prior to the 2008 season, Ray Rice was a rookie too small to cut it in the NFL, LeRon McClain was a fullback who had had a handful of carries (8) during his rookie campaign, and Willis McGahee was the man when it came to the Ravens’ backfield.
Now, McGahee finds himself fighting for his football life as both Rice and McClain look to continue to steal touches from the back thanks to very solid 2008 outings.
Head coach John Harbaugh has gone on record to state that the Ravens’ backfield situation is a true RBBC as the club plans to utilize all three parts of their three-headed monster during the season, often times, riding the hot hand.
BUFFALO BILLS—Fred Jackson vs. Dominic Rhodes
Don’t get us wrong, Marshawn Lynch will be the main man in Buffalo yet again in 2009.
However, as of now, the back is set to miss the first three games of the season due to a suspension he received for violating the league’s personal conduct policy. That means that for three weeks, either Jackson or Rhodes will be very valuable to fantasy owners.
While Rhodes did experience somewhat of a rejuvenation last season in Indy, totaling 538 rushing yards, 302 receiving yards, and nine total TDs, the Bruno Boys give the edge to Jackson in this battle thanks to his 4.4 ypc average in 2008 compared to Rhodes’ 3.5.
DENVER BRONCOS—Knowshon Moreno vs. Correll Buckhalter vs. LaMont Jordan
Sure, the Broncos may have gone a little batty with all the running backs they brought in this offseason, but after all the injuries that hit the position last year for Denver, can you really blame them?
Out of the bazillion runners Denver has on its roster, the battle will come down to rookie and 12th overall pick, Knowshon Moreno, and veterans Correll Buckhalter and LaMont Jordan.
In the end, experience will take a back seat to talent as Moreno should win the job. However, don’t be surprised to see Denver keep the rookie’s load light by spelling him with Buckhalter and Jordan throughout the season.
NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS—Laurence Maroney vs. Sammy Morris vs. Fred Taylor vs. Kevin Faulk
Laurence Maroney’s career hasn’t gone quite as the Patriots expected when they drafted the running back out of Minnesota. The result—one of the league’s most cluttered backfields.
However, the Patriots have made it work, utilizing the RBBC philosophy to the fullest. For the upcoming 2009 season, it looks like veteran Fred Taylor, who the team signed after his release from the Jacksonville Jaguars, will be the team’s starter, with Sammy Morris and Laurence Maroney spelling him in short yardage situations and to keep his elder legs fresh.
Kevin Faulk, meanwhile, will continue to play the role of receiver, earning most of his playing time on 3rd downs. For fantasy purposes, none of the Patriots’ runners appear to be anything more than RB3s.
OAKLAND RAIDERS—Justin Fargas vs. Darren McFadden
While it was Fargas that led Oakland in rushing attempts (218) and rushing yards (853) in 2008, don’t expect a repeat in 2009.
Following what was a disappointing rookie campaign hampered by turf toe, running back, Darren McFadden seems to have his explosiveness back and seems poised to slip into the Raiders’ backfield as the team’s starter.
Fargas has been serviceable in his time as the starter, but Al Davis did not take McFadden 4th overall last offseason to have him sit behind Fargas on the depth chart.
SEATTLE SEAHAWKS—Julius Jones vs. TJ Duckett vs. Justin Forsett
Upon Maurice Morris’ departure to the Detroit Lions, it appeared that Julius Jones would be the go-to-guy in Seattle, making him an intriguing fantasy option for 2009.
However, while Jones will be the team’s primary ball carrier, Duckett and Forsett will have larger roles than previously assumed.
New offensive coordinator, Greg Knapp, has gone on record stating that he will use a rotation of runners for the Seahawks throughout the season in order to keep his stable of backs healthy. To translate that into fantasy lingo, none of the Seahawks’ backs make for strong fantasy options for 2009.
Jones will see the majority of the touches, but Duckett will vulture his red-zone opportunities while Forsett steals just enough of Jones’ touches to make him a pain for those owners who have Jones on their rosters.
TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS—Derrick Ward vs. Earnest Graham
Complimenting bruiser Brandon Jacobs last season, Derrick Ward posted the finest year of his career, going for 1,025 rush yards and 2 rushing TDs. The work landed Ward a nice four-year, $17 million dollar deal with the Bucs this offseason, where he’ll compete for touches with Earnest Graham. However, judging by the talk coming out of Bucs’ camp, it appears the two are not so much in competition but rather will be working as a dynamic duo as the Bucs look to use the pair as a change of pace from one another, much like the Giants did with Ward and Jacobs.
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Fantasy Football Notes: Denver Broncos
Published: July 13, 2009
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The 2008 was a very weird year one the Denver Broncos. After getting off to a great start and looking as if they had a shot at the playoffs once again, they fell just short, ending the season at 8-8.
In fact, the Broncos had a four game lead in the AFC West with four games left, only to see the San Diego Chargers beat them on the last week of the season and win the division.
Following, the season they fired head coach Mike Shanahan and replaced him with Josh McDaniels. Obviously the Broncos were looking for someone to blame, but let’s face it—They had so many injuries on defense and in their backfield, not to mention the suspension of wide receiver Brandon Marshall to start the season, that things never really had a shot at flowing when it came to personnel on the field.
In fact, rumor had it that they were trying to coax running back Terrell Davis and safety Steve Atwater out of retirement.
All was not lost in the season, however, as a few key developments took place.
Wide receivers Eddie Royal and Marshall, along with tight end Tony Scheffler, all took strides in becoming better targets in the passing game. Also, having overcome some major adversity last year and still finishing 8-8 says something about the team’s demeanor.
Any team that has the Oakland Raiders and the Kansas City Chiefs in their division has a shot at bouncing back, and that is what the Broncos look to do in 2009.
KEY ADDITIONS
Josh McDaniels (HC)—During the off-season the Broncos brought in former offensive coordinator for the New England Patriots, Josh McDaniels. His addition to the team brings a new frame of mind to the offensive side of the ball in Denver, one that encompasses many quick slants and out routes.
He inherits a great receiving group and has brought in a ton of running backs to right the ship and ease the burden of all the injuries that the Broncos suffered through in 2008.
Misc. RBs —Leading that bunch is rookie Knowshon Moreno out of Georgia. He fits the lead back role right away, while newcomers Correll Buckhalter and LaMont Jordan were brought in to add some competition and depth to a position weakened by injuries last season.
What was a glaring weakness for the Broncos last year could become a position of strength in 2009.
KEY DEPARTURES
Mike Shanahan (HC)—The Broncos parted ways with Mike Shanahan, who had been their head coach since 1995. This hasn’t been viewed as a very popular move in Colorado, but it is one that management thought had to be done.
Shanahan created a new way of life in Denver, bringing in a system that produced productive running back after productive running back. His leadership and coaching techniques could be missed dearly, as newcomer Josh McDaniels has already had a squabble with the team’s former star quarterback Jay Cutler.
Jay Cutler (QB)—Cutler was run out of town, partially due to his whiney behavior and partly due to McDaniels pride. He has ended up with the Chicago Bears, and in return, the Broncos received a bunch of draft picks as well as quarterback Kyle Orton.
In Cutlers’ two seasons as the full-time starter, he played all 32 games, passed for over 8,000 yards and threw 45 touchdowns. Those are numbers that will be very hard to replace.
ROOKIE TO WATCH
Knowshon Moreno (RB)—This former standout from Georgia will begin his NFL career in Denver with a loaded backfield. Moreno definitely has the skills to succeed in this league, but it will be interesting to see whether or not McDaniels keeps Moreno on a short leash or not.
The way this team has been built, one has to believe that the offensive philosophy will be to utilize multiple running backs every game, riding the hot hand. If that is the case, Moreno’s numbers will struggle and so will his fantasy football value.
Either way though, this kid is exciting to watch and will become a fan favorite before long in Denver.
BRUNO BOYS SPOTLIGHT
Kyle Orton (QB) & Chris Simms (QB)—With the departure of Cutler, someone is going to have to replace him at quarterback. The two that will be given the shot will be Kyle Orton and Chris Simms.
Orton has been named the starter but a few bad games and the team could turn to Simms. While neither are top-notch quarterbacks, they will inherit a solid foundation on offense, led by their receiving corps and a group of productive running backs.
Draft Orton as a QB2 entering 2009.
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The Top 5 O-Lines and How They Can Help Your Fantasy Draft
Published: July 12, 2009
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There’s a saying that for every good man, there’s a good woman behind them. Three things I know about this phrase – it’s mostly true, it was definitely written by a woman, and it’s a great analogy for a running back and their offensive line, except in the case of football it’s flip flopped and it’s not so much about what’s behind but what’s up in front. Countless times a mediocre back has thrived behind a stellar O-line. And though some backs are so good it doesn’t matter who’s in front, when placed behind a good offensive line, they do become unstoppable. The point is, a great offensive line boosts a running back’s fantasy value and that can be helpful when trying to decide between several backs at your draft. Here’s a look at some of the league’s most dominant offensive lines and the running backs behind them.
1. New York Giants
It’s not just your TV that makes it look like Eli Manning has all the time in the world. It’s the Giant’s superb O-line. Ranked no. 1 in rushing yards per game, this frontal force has produced a 1,000 yard rusher every year since 2004. And, last season, they produced two in Brandon Jacobs and Derrick Ward, proving that this bunch is truly the best of the best. Barring injuries, the Giant offensive line will continue to dominate the field especially with the addition of the big OT William Beatty from Connecticut. Give Jacobs, Ahmad Bradshaw, Danny Ware and Andre Brown a little edge in your 2009 fantasy drafts.
2. Philadelphia Eagles
Though still a solid O-line, the Eagles witnessed a decline in their running game last season going from 4.8 yards-per-carry to 4.0. The good news is that adding Jason Peters and Shawn Andrews should give Philadelphia’s running game a major boost in 2009, making them one of the league’s most effective. Brian Westbrook is already a first round pick but if you find yourself trying to decide between him and another back keep in mind the solid line that will be in front of him. Lesean McCoy’s value also rises, especially with Westbrook’s history of getting hurt.
3. Minnesota Vikings
You probably aren’t going to need an offensive line analysis to determine whether or not to draft Adrian Peterson seeing as he’s been the clear cut number no. 1 pick in most leagues. However, it’s always nice to know that the Vikings offensive line is one of the NFL’s elite. And adding Phil Loadholt from Oklahoma State should only make them better.
4. Dallas Cowboys
For the last three years, the Cowboys’ offensive front has helped the team average over 4.0 yards per carry. One of the league’s biggest lines, they’ll eventually need to get younger, but for now, they can still dominate the field with their powerful run blocking. It doesn’t hurt that Dallas’ running back Marion Barber is an absolute beast. If you’re trying to choose between Barber and another back late in the first round or early second, the Cowboy’s o-line should give Barber the nudge. While it’s true that he’s part of a committee including Felix Jones and Tashard Choice, Barber will get the ball at the goal line, making him the prize pick of the trio. But, remember, since Jones and Choice are running behind the same bunch of guys, they become a bit more valuable as well.
5. Carolina Panthers
Thanks in part to the Panther’s strong offensive line, Carolina’s run game last season ranked 2nd in the league with an average of 4.8 yards per carry. The 1-2 punch of DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart could not be stopped and if the line can stay healthy, both backs should continue to run over defenses. In fact, the offensive line should be even better than last year with the addition of rookie OT Jeff Otah. Williams is a first round pick in your fantasy draft regardless but considering the kind of crew he has up front, you may want to push him and Jonathan Stewart up a pick or two.
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Fantasy Football Crystal Ball: Aaron Rodgers
Published: July 12, 2009
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Having to wait three years behind Brett Favre, Green Bay Packers’ quarterback Aaron Rodgers finally got his chance to lead the team last year after Favre was traded to the New York Jets days before the first preseason game.
Rodgers had not started a game in his first three seasons with Green Bay, so despite his apparent talent level, he was a big question mark entering the season last year. It didn’t take long for Rodgers to take command of the Packers offense, as he threw for 506 yards with four touchdowns and no interceptions in leading Green Bay to consecutive wins at the beginning of the season.
Rodgers went on to finish with 4,038 passing yards, 28 touchdowns, 13 interceptions, a 63.6 completion percentage, and a respectable 7.5 average yards per attempt. At the same time, the Packers found it hard to win—mostly because of a porous defense—as they stumbled to a 6-10 record.
After a stellar first season at the helm, the future looks bright for Rodgers and the Packers. In fact, entering this season, Rodgers could be considered a sleeper—not in the sense that he’s a player coming out of nowhere, but more in the regard that he’s got the potential to finish as the top fantasy football quarterback.
That’s quite a statement, so let’s take a look at why that might be the case.
First, let’s analyze Rodgers’ numbers from last year. Having never started a game in his previous three seasons, Rodgers entered the year with mental knowledge and experience in the Packers’ system, but was basically a rookie when it came to being on the field. And that’s part of the reason his numbers from last year were so impressive—not only did he amass 4,038 yards and 28 touchdowns, he also had more than a 2:1 touchdown-to-interception ratio.
Look at his game logs, and you’ll see he had two games where he threw three interceptions. Other than that, he had no multiple-interception games. And though he started strong, he finished even better, as he had 15 touchdowns and eight interceptions in the last seven games of the season. Perhaps what’s most impressive are his completion percentage (63.6), average yards per attempt (7.5) and quarterback rating (93.8). All those stats verify that Rodgers’ skill set has staying power, and his stats can improve.
Look at what Green Bay did in the offseason and you’ll see that the majority of the moves were made to improve the defense; not that it was expected, but it’s acceptable because the offense was great last year. The Packers were fifth in the NFL in points, eighth in total yards, and eighth in passing yards last season. This is a testament to Rodgers’ surrounding cast, which returns mainly intact this season.
Green Bay has a young but talented and improving offensive line, anchored by 10-year veteran tackle Chad Clifton. Running backs Ryan Grant and Brandon Jackson form one of the better running back tandems in the league, and the passing game is so good because Rodgers has great options to throw to, including wide receivers Donald Driver, Greg Jennings, Jordy Nelson, and James Jones to go along with tight end Donald Lee.
The best part is that practically the entire offense returns for Green Bay.
So, what that all means is Rodgers is on track for a spectacular season. He has some lofty expectations to live up to, partly because of Favre’s legacy, but also because of how well he played last season.
Rodgers is not only capable of matching those expectations this season, given his returning supporting cast and his statistics (which display staying power), but he could end up exceeding them.
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Fantasy Football Notes: Cleveland Browns
Published: July 12, 2009
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No offense intended for Cleveland fans, but the Browns were miserable in 2008.
After a surprising 10-6 finish in 2007, the Browns players made believers out of the front office, coaching staff and fans, only to fall flat on their face and finish eight games under .500 last year.
Cleveland’s 4-12 finish marked the eighth time since 2000 that the team has finished below .500 and because of this, head coach Romeo Crennel was fired from his tenure and replaced by Eric Mangini.
After being the so-called “fantasy football darlings” of ’07, many owners drafted the likes of Derek Anderson, Jamal Lewis, Braylon Edwards and Kellen Winslow Jr. in hopes of a repeat season. Unfortunately, that was not the case.
Derek Anderson struggled out of the gate and was replaced by Brady Quinn in Week 10, managing just nine touchdown passes, which was 20 less than his previous season.
Fresh off a resurgent ’07 season, Jamal Lewis was right back to mediocrity last season. The bruising running back averaged just 3.6 yards per carry and found pay dirt all of four times.
These are not the numbers fantasy owners expected when drafting Lewis as a No. 2 running back. The worst of the bunch was wide receiver Braylon Edwards.
After hauling in 1,289 receiving yards and 16 touchdowns the season before, Edwards was drafted in the middle of round two, only to see himself score three total touchdowns and finish amongst the biggest busts of the ’08 season.
Speaking of busts, Winslow was just that. Like Edwards, Winslow had a lot of hype entering the season, but nagging injuries cut his season short and because of this, the tight end was 682 receiving yards shy of his ’07 totals.
KEY ADDITION
Eric Mangini (HC)—The Browns made a few offseason moves with the addition of David Patten (WR) and Robert Royal (TE). However, the biggest addition to the “Dawg Pound” was the signing of head coach Eric Mangini.
Mangini comes to Cleveland from the New York Jets, in which he coached four seasons and led the Jets to a 23-25 career record. Last season, Mangini coached the Jets to an 8-3 start only to see his team drop five of its next six games and ultimately fail to make the postseason for the third time in four years.
This meltdown led to the firing of Mangini in New York and the hiring of him in Cleveland. Under Mangini, look for the Browns to finally create an identity on both sides of the football, something they struggled with under Romeo Crennel.
KEY DEPARTURE
Kellen Winslow Jr. (TE)—After going for 1,106 receiving yards and five touchdowns the year before, many fantasy owners drafted Winslow early, only to see him suffer through multiple injuries and a lack of production.
Winslow could only muster 43 receptions for 438 receiving yards to go along with three touchdowns. The sad thing about this is two of those touchdowns came in the same game.
With the Browns franchise wanting a fresh start and growing tired of his act, the team shipped him to Tampa Bay in exchange for draft picks. This will be a big blow for the offense, as they replace Winslow with Robert Royal, Steve Heiden and little known Martin Rucker.
ROOKIE TO WATCH
Brian Robiskie (WR)—After drafting offensive lineman Alex Mack in the first round, the Browns addressed their needs at wide receiver by taking Brian Robiskie out of Ohio State with the 36th overall pick.
Braylon Edwards has one of the receiver spots on lock-down, but with Donte’ Stallworth likely missing the season due to manslaughter charges, look for Robiskie to play right out of the gate.
What this means from a fantasy football standpoint is still in question. That will heavily depend on if the Browns can get ample play from the quarterback position and just how fast Robiskie adapts to the speed of the NFL game.
BRUNO BOYS SPOTLIGHT
Derek Anderson (QB) & Brady Quinn (QB)—Neither of these signal callers took advantage of their opportunities to take control of the starting quarterback job in Cleveland last year. Because of this, the Browns are left with the same questions surrounding their quarterbacks in 2009.
In 2008, the duo had more turnovers (12) than touchdown passes (11). For the Browns to compete in a tough AFC North division, this will have to change.
Quinn will enter the season as the starting quarterback but if he struggles out of the gate, don’t be surprised if Mangini turns to Anderson. Neither option possesses immediate fantasy value, but if the Browns can regain their 2007 form, expect whoever is starting to be a hot choice off the waiver wire.
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