Fantasy Football Week Three Rankings: Kickers

Ahh kickers. Football’s private joke; the under-appreciated; the short time victors; the long-term losers. The truth is, most fantasy football owners don’t put too much stock in them and rightfully so. After all, the Bruno Boys did advise that you wait until the last round to pick up your kicker as there are always plenty of solid options to pick up on a waiver wire later on if needed.

Plus, the difference in fantasy points among kickers in a season overall is not that much. However, think about the last time you lost a match by two, three or four points. Maybe you lost a playoff slot, a fantasy Super Bowl. Maybe it just made you so mad you wanted to rip off car doors Hulk-style. Like it or not, kickers are here to stay in fantasy football. So, let the Bruno Boys help you get the most out of the kicker position in 2009.

With week two behind us, it’s becoming clearer that this season is no different from the rest. The kicker position is one of the hardest to predict on a week to week basis. One week a kicker can go two for two with a game winning FG and then the next week miss two FGs to lose the game for his team.

As the weeks go on, trends will start to reveal who you can rely on and who you can’t, but this early on, you’re bound to get a few surprises. That’s why it’s even more important to pay attention to the factors that can help determine what might make one kicker more valuable than another each week. And, that’s what the Bruno Boys have done once again in our Bruno Boys Fantasy Football Week Three Kicker Rankings, helping to give your lineup the best chance this weekend.

1. John Carney (New Orleans Saints) @ Buffalo

What John Carney doesn’t get in FG points, he makes up for with extra points. Carney has remained consistent kicking the ball since week one and converted two FGs and six extra points in Week Two at Philadelphia. If Carney keeps kicking this well, the Saints will have a tough decision when original starting kicker Garrett Hartley returns from suspension. As long as the Saints continue to dominate offensively, Carney will put up good numbers.
Point Projection: 11 points

2. Lawrence Tynes (New York Giants) @ Tampa Bay

Lawrence Tynes has hit seven FGs in the first two games of the season thanks to a Giants’ offense that has no problem driving the ball down-field. In week two, he hit four of five FGs, one of which was the game winner for the boys in blue, plus three extra points. Tynes has looked nothing but solid so far, and with the Giants offense expected to continue with their success, he should be considered a must start in Week Three at Tampa Bay.
Point Projection: 11 points

3. Ryan Longwell (Minnesota Vikings) vs. San Francisco

Longwell continues to produce great fantasy numbers, and he hasn’t missed a FG with four total for the season. Longwell’s accuracy along with plenty of extra point opportunities make him a surefire option each week. Look for him to continue to put up good numbers Week Three against the 49ers in Minnesota.
Point Projection: 11 points

4. Mason Crosby (Green Bay Packers) @ St. Louis

Crosby made one of two FGs in Week Two against the Bengals. The one he made was from 45 yards out. In addition, he also racked up three extra points. Crosby has missed two FGs in the two games which is a cause for concern. However, he was recovering from an abdominal strain and that could be to blame for the inaccuracy. Right now, there is no better way to bounce back from a disappointing few games than to face the Rams in week three. Look for the Packers to score a load of points.
Point Projection: 10 points

5. David Akers (Philadelphia Eagles) vs. Kansas City

With Kevin Kolb at quarterback, David Akers made two FGs and two extra points in Week Two against New Orleans. Not a bad outing. Akers remains one of the most consistent kickers right now, despite major changes to the Eagles’ offense. He could play an even bigger fantasy role in Week Three against a Chiefs’ defense that hasn’t looked great and should give Philadelphia lots of chances to score.
Point Projection: 10 points

6. Stephen Gostkowski (New England Patriots) vs. Atlanta

In each of the past two games, Gostkowski has attempted three FGs and has converted five overall. The Patriots don’t look like the same dominant offense right now, but there are too many weapons for that to continue. Look for Brady and the Patriots to be downright hungry after a bad loss to the Jets. They face Atlanta at Gillette Stadium in week three, and Gostkowski should get several FG attempts and rack up some extra points as well.
Point Projection: 10 points

7. Neil Rackers (Arizona Cardinals) vs. Indianapolis

The Cardinal’s offense found itself in Week Two against the Jaguars, which made Neil Rackers owners very happy. He did miss a 48 yarder, but converted a 45-yard FG and four extra points. Despite missing one FG, Rackers has been pretty consistent so far. Arizona is an offense laden with great playmakers, so Rackers should be a great play most weeks, especially week three against a sub-par Colt’s defense.
Point Projection: 10 points

8. Robbie Gould (Chicago Bears) @ Seattle

Thanks to a Bear’s offense that isn’t exactly clicking on all cylinders yet, Robbie Gould should continue to get plenty of use. In Week Two against the Steelers, he hit one FG for 45 yards, while adding two extra points. Gould is a very accurate kicker, and if Cutler and the Bears continue to display an offense still in the works, Gould should play a major role in how they score. Week Three against Seattle is a great match up for Gould. He could have his best game yet.
Point Projection: 10 points

9. Jay Feely (New York Jets) vs. Tennessee

Though all under 40 yards, Feely kicked three FGs in Week Two against the Patriots. He also had an extra point, totaling 10 points for the day. The Jets face the Titan’s defense in Week Three which is a tough matchup, but Mark Sanchez has looked surprisingly calm in the pocket, and the Jet’s defense has not allowed a TD yet all season. This game should be a battle and that might mean lots of FGs.
Point Projection: Nine points

10. Rob Bironas (Tennessee Titans) @ New York Jets

Rob Bironas kicked a 40-yard FG and notched four extra points in a Week Two loss against the Texans. He has missed two FGs so far this season, but it looks like he may be returning back to form. The Titan’s face a very tough Jets defense in Week Three, but running back Chris Johnson should be able to keep them on their toes. This game could turn into a big defensive match up, which usually translates into many FG opportunities.
Point Projection: Nine points

11. Kris Brown (Houston Texans) @ Jacksonville

After only scoring one extra point in Week One, Kris Brown came back to fantasy life in Week Two with two FGs and four extra points against the Titans. The Texan’s offense is starting to get going which means a whole lot of potential for high scoring games. Brown kicks against the Jaguars in Week Three, which makes him a great option on Sunday.
Point Projection: Nine points

12. Nick Folk (Dallas Cowboys) vs. Carolina

Folk could easily be on the top of this list most weeks if it weren’t for a Cowboys’ offense that is still trying to find its way, excluding an electric running duo of Marion Barber and Felix Jones. Folk hit a 47-yard FG and three extra points in Week Two against the Giants. There is no questioning Folk’s kicking abilities and Dallas’ offense is not bad it’s just under performing. If Romo can get a hold on his interceptions, Folk will start to produce like a true number one starter. He’s definitely worth starting in Week Three when the Cowboys play the Panthers in Dallas.
Point Projection: Nine points

13. Rian Lindell (Buffalo Bills) vs. New Orleans

Lindell scored fantasy owners a whopping 15 points in week two against Tampa Bay. He made all four FGs (though only one was beyond 40) he attempted and booted in three extra points. So far so good for Lindell. He’s five for five for FGs all season, and while the Bills are not totally dominating, their offense has a lot of potential in the right match up, which is why Lindell is a good play week three against the Saints lackluster defense.
Point Projection: Nine points

14. Steve Hauschka (Baltimore Ravens) vs. Cleveland

The Ravens offense is slowly starting to come into place and long distance kicker Steve Hauschka is as well. He has made two of three FGs this season, and last week against the Chargers, he had one FG and four extra points. Hauschka is not a good play every week, at least not until the Raven’s offense officially arrives. However, in Week Three the Ravens play the Browns in Baltimore. It’s a matchup worth a look especially since the Ravens defense should keep Cleveland’s offense off the field quite a bit.
Point projection: Eight points

15. Nate Kaeding (San Diego Chargers) vs. Miami

Nate Kaeding gave a nice performance against the Ravens in Week Two with four FGs despite his team losing by five. The Chargers’ offense is under performing a bit considering the weapons they have all over the field. Don’t expect that to continue. Kaeding may not knock in four FGs again anytime soon, but he will definitely get plenty of chances to score in Week Three against the Dolphins.
Point Projection: Eight points

For more Week 3 Positional Rankings, click HERE!

*THIS ARTICLE WRITTEN BY BRUNO BOY DOMINIC BROWN*

Read more NFL news on BleacherReport.com

Fantasy Football Week Three Rankings: Tight Ends

Another exciting week of NFL action was capped off by another fourth quarter comeback by Indianapolis Colts quarterback Peyton Manning on Monday night against the Miami Dolphins. The Dolphins dominated the time of possession in the game, but Manning and the Colts’ big play offense did enough to win the game 27-23.

No one played bigger in this game then Colts’ tight end Dallas Clark, who started the game with an 80-yard touchdown reception on the first play of the game. Yes, you read that right a tight end had an 80-yard touchdown reception.

The first two weeks of the season have seen tight ends producing more fantasy football points then in years past. Week one saw 11 tight ends posting at least nine points and Week two saw much of the same as nine tight ends had nine points or more, topped by Clark’s 24-point effort Monday night.

Tight ends are becoming more of a factor in fantasy football, and it is becoming more crucial to find the right tight end to start for your team on a weekly basis. So as you search for the tight end that can be a difference maker in your line-up this week, please enjoy the Bruno Boys Fantasy Football Week Three Tight End Rankings.

1. Dallas Clark (Indianapolis Colts) @ Arizona

After scoring a disappointing three fantasy points Week one, Dallas Clark had an astounding 24 point effort week two. He had seven catches for 183 yards against the Miami Dolphins, including the aforementioned 80-yard touchdown on the first play of the game.

Look for another big week from Clark this week against the Arizona Cardinals as he continues to be one of Peyton Manning’s favorite targets.
Point Projection: 14 points

2. Antonio Gates (San Diego Chargers) vs. Miami

Gates has 10 receptions for 161 yards on the season, but fantasy owners have been left slightly disappointed as he has yet to find the end zone. He has a great match-up week three as the Chargers will host the same Miami Dolphins team that Dallas Clark exposed.

Look for Gates to find the end zone and double digit fantasy football points for the first time this season.
Point Projection: 14 points

3. Jason Witten (Dallas Cowboys) vs. Carolina

Witten is only averaging eight fantasy points a game thus far this season, which is below expectations for our top-ranked preseason tight end. He has been targeted 14 times in two games (catching 10) and he continues to be one of the top options for Tony Romo in the passing game.

Witten is once again a must-start TE as he has a good matchup this week when the Cowboys host a Carolina Panthers team that is allowing an average of 33 points a game.
Point Projection: 13 points

4. Chris Cooley (Washington Redskins) @ Detroit

The Washington Redskins have struggled to score points this season, totaling 26 points in two weeks. Things could change this week as the Redskins travel to Detroit to face a Lions team that has given up 72 points on the season. Chris Cooley has been the most consistent cog in Washington’s offensive arsenal, totaling 14 catches for 151 yards and a touchdown in two games.

Seventy-plus yards and a touchdown sound reasonable against a Lions team that has allowed three touchdowns to tight ends in two games.
Point Projection: 13 points

5. Tony Gonzalez (Atlanta Falcons) @ New England

Two games into his tenure with the Atlanta Falcons, Tony Gonzalez has been the big-play tight end the team was hoping for. He has also been the most consistent tight end in fantasy football, scoring 13 points in each of the first two games. Look for Gonzalez to extend his double digit scoring streak this week against the New England Patriots.
Point Projection: 12 points

6. Kellen Winslow (Tampa Bay Buccaneers) vs. New York Giants

When the Buccaneers traded for Kellen Winslow during the offseason, he was expected to be featured in the offense. After two games, this has been the case. Winslow has 12 receptions for 120 yards on the season and he has scored a touchdown in each game.

Consider him a solid TE option this week against a New York Giants defense that has allowed a touchdown to a tight end in each of their first two games.
Point Projection: 10 points

7. Owen Daniels (Houston Texans) vs. Jacksonville

After struggling mightily week one, the Texans offense bounced back with a big game week two against the Tennessee Titans and Owen Daniels was a big part of the offense. He had six receptions for 72 yards with a touchdown and he will look to pick-up where he left off this week against a struggling Jacksonville Jaguars defense.

Consider Daniels a mid-level TE this week at home against the Jaguars.
Point Projection: 10 points

8. John Carlson (Seattle Seahawks) vs. Chicago

After scoring 21 fantasy points week one, John Carlson was held to four points Week Two. He does have six receptions in each of the first two games, and is a featured part of the Seahawks offense.

Carlson would rank higher this week, but starting quarterback Matt Hasselbeck is likely out with fractured ribs and the Seahawks will likely turn to Seneca Wallace. Even if Hasselbeck is out, Carlson is worth using as a starting fantasy tight end this week.
Point Projection: 9 points

9. Brent Celek (Philadelphia Eagles) vs. Kansas City

Celek has been one of the early surprises at the tight end spot this season. He has 14 catches for 141 yards with a touchdown on the season and he has proved to be a nice outlet for both quarterbacks Donovan McNabb and Kevin Kolb over the first two weeks. Consider Celek a low-end TE this week against the Kansas City Chiefs. 
Point Projection: 9 points

10. Jeremy Shockey (New Orleans Saints) @ Buffalo

Through two games this season, Shockey is starting to live up to some of the hype that surrounded him after being traded to the Saints before the 2008 season. He has scored 19 fantasy football points after two weeks and in New Orleans’ high-powered offensive attack he will be worth starting consideration most weeks, including this week against the Buffalo Bills.
Point Projection: 8 points

11. Todd Heap (Baltimore Ravens) vs. Cleveland

Todd Heap only had one catch for nine yards week two, but it did go for a touchdown. He now has six catches for 82 yards with two touchdowns on the season. Heap is proving to once again be an excellent red zone option for the Ravens.

Quarterback Joe Flacco looks comfortable with his veteran tight end, leaving Heap as a worthy low-end starting fantasy tight end option.
Point Projection: 8 points

12. Dustin Keller (New York Jets) vs. Tennessee

The Jets may be the surprise team early in this NFL season. They are winning games with what is proving to be a very good defense. The offense may be better then expected when considering they are starting a rookie quarterback. Dustin Keller has been a big part of the offense over the first two games, totaling seven catches for 116 yards with a touchdown.

Consider Keller a low-end starting option against a Tennessee Titans defense that has allowed 47 points in two games.
Point Projection: 8 points

13. Greg Olsen (Chicago Bears) @ Seattle

To say that Greg Olsen has been a disappointment this season is a bit of an understatement. With the addition of Jay Cutler at quarterback in Chicago, Olsen was thought of as a top-five fantasy tight end option by many of us experts.

He only has four receptions for 49 yards through two games and hasn’t been the red zone threat we expected heading into his third season in the NFL. Consider him a low-end TE1 at this point, he has a lot of talent, but our patience is running thin.
Point Projection: 6 points

14. Benjamin Watson (New England Patriots) vs. Atlanta

After a huge week one performance with 77 receiving yards and two touchdowns Benjamin Watson appeared to be back on the fantasy football radar, but after only managing three catches for 23 yards Week Two his fantasy value is again in question.

Watson is probably neither the stud tight end we saw the first week nor the dud tight end we saw last week. He is likely somewhere right in between. With Tom Brady at quarterback Watson is worth a look as a low-end starting fantasy tight end—with his true value coming in TD-only leagues.
Point Projection: 6 points

15. Kevin Boss (New York Giants) @ Tampa Bay

With the loss of Plaxico Burress at wide receiver for the Giants Kevin Boss was expected to take on a bigger role in the Giants passing game, but through two games he has only managed four catches for 75 yards. Instead of looking to Boss, quarterback Eli Manning has become very comfortable with young wide receivers Steve Smith and Mario Manningham.

Two weeks does not make a fantasy football bust, but Boss will need to get more looks before being more then a TE2 fantasy option.
Point Projection: 5 points

For the rest of the Week Three Tight End Rankings, click HERE!

*THIS ARTICLE WRITTEN BY BRUNO BOY LARRY JOSEPH*

Read more NFL news on BleacherReport.com

Fantasy Football Week Two Duds

Once again, taking on the task of identifying those over performers and under performers from the previous week of fantasy football is Ryan Hallam, creator of Fighting Chance Fantasy.

So, join Ryan as he takes us through the Week Two Duds and in case you missed it you can check out Week Two Studs by clicking the link. And if you have any questions for him, email rhallam@brunoboys.net for Week Three fantasy football advice.

Note: All point projections read in this recap are from standard scoring leagues (non-PPR) and are projections made by the Bruno Boys staff

QUARTERBACK – DUDS

Tom Brady (New England Patriots) – It was another disappointing game for Brady and the Pats and this one didn’t end in a fumbled kickoff and last minute comeback.  The New England offense sputtered again and failed to reach the end zone.

Brady failed to complete even 50 percent of his passes and threw for just 216 yards.  He also threw an interception and scored just six fantasy points, a far cry from the 20 he was projected for.

Hallam’s Take:  I’m not saying to walk the plank yet with Brady, but I do think there are reasons to be concerned.  Sure the New York Jets defense has looked great through two weeks, but NO touchdowns?  I would put some feelers out about Brady to see if anyone is still willing to give you a ton for him, but other than that you have to hope that he snaps out of it. 

The schedule isn’t a cake walk upcoming so you may be getting average numbers for a while.  It seems teams have figured out that you need to put pressure on him to cause Brady trouble.

Brady Quinn (Cleveland Browns) – Quinn and the Browns have sputtered for two consecutive weeks and I am starting to worry about their offense going forward.  Quinn was a very pedestrian 18-for-31 for 161 yards on Sunday.  He failed to throw a touchdown pass, but did turn the ball over on an interception.  Even on a modest 12 point prediction, Quinn came up well short on his performance as he scored just four points.

Hallam’s Take:  This was a guy that I was hopeful about coming into the season, but I have let that ship sail.  The Browns offense hasn’t shown many signs of life through the first two weeks, and I’m not sure that there should be hope for the future in 2009. 

I still think that Quinn will be a solid quarterback someday in the NFL, but I really am struggling to see that happen this year.  In fact, I think he is closer to being replaced by Derek Anderson than he is to being a fantasy contributor.  To be used only as a bye week replacement…in desperate situations.

Brett Favre (Minnesota Vikings) – It was another Vikings’ win against a subpar team, but again Favre didn’t make anything that resembled a fantasy impact.  His projection of 20 points seemed quite reasonable to me, but he again failed to live up to expectations. 

Favre completed a great percentage, as he was 23-for-27, but it was for just 155 yards and two scores.  Sounds pretty decent, right?  Well, he still fell six points short of the projection when he scored just 14.

Hallam’s Take: You know what is concerning me about Favre?  The Vikings are 2-0 and he hasn’t made an impact in either game.  I know it is only two games, but he has thrown for a combined 265 yards and three touchdowns. 

He has yet to throw an interception this year, which is good considering he led the league in INTs in 2008.  But somewhat to my surprise, he just isn’t throwing the ball that much and he has had two favorable matchups against the Lions and the Browns.  A bye week replacement only.

RUNNING BACK – DUDS
Matt Forte (Chicago Bears) – It has been a tough way to start the season for Matt Forte, as he has faced one great defense after another to open the 2009 year.  Against the Steelers on Sunday, Forte ran for just 29 yards on 13 carries, and made five catches for 33 yards.  All in all, it was a whopping disappointment for Forte and his owners as he mustered up just five points, a far cry from the 13 he was projected for.

Hallam’s Take:  Through two games, Forte has still not broken 100 yards for the season and he still hasn’t found paydirt.  But, I’m not ready to break up with my man crush just yet.  I still love the guy, but things about him are starting to annoy me.  The way he leaves his socks on the floor, the way he slurps his spaghetti, you get the picture. 

But in all honesty, he has played two great defenses in Green Bay and Pittsburgh.  He gets Seattle in Week Three, which is banged up and just allowed Frank Gore to run for over 200 yards against them. After that it’s Detroit, Cincinnati and Cleveland in three of the next four games.  A great buy low candidate in my opinion. 

Steve Slaton (Houston Texans) – It was the second straight tough defense for Slaton as he has faced the Jets and Titans in the first two games.  This past Sunday, Slaton rushed for just 34 yards on 17 carries, and also caught three passes for just 25 yards.  His five fantasy point were nearly a third of the 13 that he was predicted to put up.

Hallam’s Take: Slaton is another guy who gets a pass for his first two bad weeks and he has been worse than Forte.  He has rushed for just 51 yards combined in his first two games, and he hasn’t scored yet either. 

The road gets easier for Slaton going forward, and he should breakout and start living up to his draft position starting next week.  Don’t freak out and trade him, he is another great buy low.

Brian Westbrook (Philadelphia Eagles) – Again, Westbrook wasn’t the major part of the Philly offense that he has been for the past five years.  For the second consecutive week he had just 13 carries and three catches.  In yardage, he had just 52 on the ground and 14 through the air, giving him just six fantasy points.  His owners were crushed because they thought he would score 18. 

Hallam’s Take: He was drafted anywhere from the end of the first to the beginning of the second round, but Westbrook is certainly not performing like that so far.  But it is his lack of involvement in the offense that is a concern.

He has been most of the Eagles offense for the past few years both running and receiving, but through two games he has averaged just 13 carries and three receptions, not to mention he is still without a touchdown.  It appears to be a combination of Westbrook’s lengthy injury history and a bit of a philosophical change that they are throwing the ball more.

WIDE RECEIVER – DUDS
Greg Jennings (Green Bay Packers) – The Packers offense looked pretty strong after the first game with their win over the Bears, but had much more trouble than expected in their game with the Bengals.  Not only did Jennings struggle, but he failed to catch a single pass.  That obviously equates to zero fantasy points, which really killed his owners that were hoping for 16. 

Hallam’s Take:  Shutout?  Skunked?  The big Oval?  Holy crap, who saw that one coming? And it wasn’t like the Packers got shutout, they did score 24 points.  Again, nothing to freak over, just a bad game. 

OK, a colossal bad game, but don’t hit the panic button is the lesson of the day.  Jennings will be a top ten receiver is all and said and done, don’t you worry about a thing.

Roy Williams (Dallas Cowboys) – The Cowboys put up a good number of points, but somehow Williams didn’t really fit into the scoring on Sunday.  Roy was able to come up with just one catch for 18 yards, giving him, of course, just one fantasy point.  After his impressive opening game performance, he was a major disappointment because he was projected for 14 fantasy points.

Hallam’s Take:  After an impressive first game there wasn’t much room left on the Roy Williams bandwagon, but those who jumped on late were in for a shocker of a surprise when he caught just one pass on Sunday night against the Giants.

I was a little skeptical on Williams coming into the season, but was pleasantly surprised in the opener.  I still stand firm by my thoughts that he will be somewhere between what he was in week one and the disaster that was week two.  70 catches, 1,000 yards, and seven to eight TDs sounds about right.

Randy Moss (New England Patriots) – The Jets secondary didn’t give Moss much of a chance as the Patriots were kept out of the end zone for the first time in a long time.  After a huge game in Week One, Moss put up a total DUD.  He caught four passes for just 24 yards, giving him just two fantasy points.  That was A MILE from the 17 points his owners were expecting him to score. 

Hallam’s Take:  When Darrelle Revis shutdown, Andre Johnson in the first game many people chalked it up to a bad game.  Well, I’m not sure what you have to say now that Revis has shut down Johnson and Moss in back to back games.  The kid is a stud and is turning into one of the best corners in the NFL. 

Of course it does help make the CBs job easier and the WRs job harder when the QB has so little time to react before the pass rush is in his face.  Moss should be back and rolling next week, and over 100 yards again.

TIGHT ENDS – DUDS
Zach Miller (Oakland Raiders) – It was a very ugly game, and that was mostly due to the “work” done by JaMarcus Russell who literally couldn’t hit the broad side of a barn.  But when your quarterback only completes seven passes in four quarters, it is hard for you to put up good stats. 

But Miller took it one step further by catching no passes, and thus scoring no points.  His projection of nine points was reasonable, if he had anyone with any skill throwing him the ball.

Hallam’s Take: Here’s another guy who looked very good in the first game and then came up with the old goose egg in week two.  This one I blame on JaMarcus Russell who had about the worst game a professional quarterback could possibly have throwing the ball.  I know his QB won’t be changing, but I still like Miller.  Russell can’t be worse than he was on Sunday and Miller is his most consistent target.

KICKER – DUDS
Ryan Succop (Kansas City Chiefs) – It was a (defensive?) struggle all day long between the Chiefs and Raiders which didn’t leave a lot for the kickers to do on Sunday.  I guess based on the projection of nine points for Succop that it was assumed that there would be some more points scored. 

But Oakland and KC didn’t disappoint those of you who like low scoring, boring football and Succop was able to score just four. 

Hallam’s Take: I was going to go with Josh Brown of the Rams, but I chose him last week, and I hate to keep pounding on the guy because he is on a horrible team and never gets many scoring chances. 

You probably won’t ever lead the league in points when you are kicking for the Chiefs either, so if you are counting on Succop, I would definitely look in another direction…any other direction really.

DEFENSE/SPECIAL TEAMS – DUDS
Seattle Seahawks D/ST (Five Stars) – With the drafting of Aaron Curry and the return from injury of a couple of good pass rushers, much is expected from the Seahawks this year.  But they have to do better than they did on Sunday against a team that isn’t the most explosive on offense by any stretch. 

Included in their 23 points, Seattle gave up TD runs by Frank Gore of 79 and 80 yards, not to mention failing to come up with a turnover and only sacking Shaun Hill twice.  They might have been a five star pick for this week, but they performed like two stars at best.

For more fantasy football insight and advice, click the link below…

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Fantasy Football: Week Two Sit Ems

After some week one performances that may have you wondering: “Who will be next to put up the monster game like Drew Brees and Adrian Peterson did?” We can say with the utmost confidence that the players listed below will not be the ones to do so in week two.

These are your weekly Fantasy Football Week Two Sit Ems!

 

QUARTERBACKS—SIT ‘EM

 

Jay Cutler (Chicago Bears) vs. Pittsburgh

After week one, you may be kicking yourself for drafting Cutler. He looked out of sync with the offense all game with a 1:4 TD to INT ratio.

His receivers are obviously not what they were in Denver last season, and he must learn to rely on RB Matt Forte for dump off passes to move the chains.

While he probably won’t be throwing four interceptions again this week, Pittsburgh is a tenacious defensive team that will look to shut down the Bears offense in this week two match-up.

If you’re looking for a week for Cutler to be his usual gunslinger self, wait until at least week three @ Seattle (which still isn’t a great match-up).

 

Jason Campbell (Washington Redskins) vs. St. Louis

Great match-up against the Rams, as Matt Hasselbeck proved that good QBs can tear up the Rams awful pass defense.

However, the Redskins will look to establish the run with Clinton Portis after he struggled to hit the ground running in week one vs. the New York Giants.

Keep in mind that Campbell’s best fantasy game in 2008 featured him throwing for a meager 231 yards and two TDs.

Hopefully, those numbers don’t impress you…he just is not very good.

 

RUNNING BACKS—SIT ‘EM

 

Matt Forte (Chicago Bears) vs. Pittsburgh

Well, maybe one of the Bears offensive standouts (Forte or the aforementioned Cutler) will have a decent game, or maybe they’re in for another long game.

In week one, the Steelers gave up 85 rushing yards to Tennessee, and even though Troy Polamalu will probably be out in week two, they will force the Bears to throw, while focusing on stopping Forte and run game.

While you may not be benching your No. 2-No. 4 overall pick, keep your expectations low as he faces one of the toughest match-ups for any RB.

 

Cedric Benson (Cincinnati Bengals) @ Green Bay

The Packers new and improved 3-4 defense looked great in week one versus the Bears, and the Bengals come into Lambeau off an ugly 12-7 loss to the Broncos.

While Benson looked like the focal point of the Bengals offense in week one (108 total yards), he only averaged 3.6 ypc on what most people thought would be an awful Denver run defense.

The Packers are much better than that (Forte averaged 2.2 ypc against them in week one). Benson could be in for a long day in Green Bay.

 

Kevin Smith (Detroit Lions) vs. Minnesota

Minnesota was tops in the league in 2008 against the run, allowing only 76.9 yards per game on the ground. They bring back run-stuffers Kevin and Pat Williams to devour the middle, who will look to stop Kevin Smith first and foremost.

The Vikings understand that Matthew Stafford will make mistakes, and they will force the rookie to beat them.

The only game that Smith started against Minnesota in 2008 showed him posting 91 total yards and 0 TDs, and he won’t be doing much better than that with Stafford under center.

 

WIDE RECEIVERS—SIT ‘EM

 

Antonio Bryant (Tampa Bay Buccaneers) @ Buffalo

Bryant followed up a stellar 2008 season with 29 yards on two catches to open the 2009 season…Not exactly what you were hoping for as your WR2.

Well, he’s dealing with a knee injury (expects to play week two) now, so he’s not on the right track to have a good showing against the Bills defense.

Leodis McKelvin, Buffalo’s CB that covers the opposing team’s best wideout, will be covering Bryant.

Although Randy Moss burned him for 141 yards in week one, McKelvin did a good job on him (obviously this could be argued, considering 141 yards) and did not allow Moss to make that big play.

 

Devin Hester (Chicago Bears) vs. Pittsburgh

OK, now it’s becoming ridiculous. To reinforce the point that Cutler is a poor start, Hester should not be started this week, as well.

He had a surprisingly good game in week one (90 yds, one TD), but he doesn’t figure to be a consistent player on a weekly basis.

Even with Cutler’s strong arm and Hester’s speed, put Devin on the bench until he can prove he’s a worthy WR3 in all formats (However, if you are awarded RET yards or TDs, you may want to reconsider this).

 

Devery Henderson (New Orleans Saints) @ Philadelphia

The Eagles are no push-over like the Detroit Lions. Fantasy football fans know that Drew Brees is so frustrating (to Saints WR owners) because of his trust in so many players.

Weekly, a new offensive player becomes a fantasy standout for the Brees-led Saints. Last week, it was Jeremy Shockey and Devery Henderson.

Henderson had over 100 yards and a score, but can he do it again? Your guess is as good as any…Facing a much tougher opponent, six TDs seems unlikely, so Henderson could struggle in this match-up vs. the Eagles.

 

TIGHT ENDS—SIT ‘EM

 

Brent Celek (Philadelphia Eagles) vs. New Orleans

Celek is going to be a low TE1 on good match-ups (see Lions, Detroit; Bills, Buffalo), as both teams gave up two TDs to opposing TEs week one. However, the Eagles are going to be without starting QB Donovan McNabb, so Celek may not be seeing the same kind of looks with Kevin Kolb at the helm. Although Celek is a TD vulture, he doesn’t figure to play a big role in week two versus the New Orleans Saints.

 

KICKERS—SIT ‘EM

 

Stephen Gostkowski (New England Patriots) @ New York Jets

The Jets had a nice game against Kris Brown (Houston Texans) last week where they only allowed one XP made. Week-to-week this can all change, but it seems that Rex Ryan’s defensive philosophies have already been accepted and put into play.

Gostkowski had a poor game vs. the Bills in which he missed a 41-yard field goal (he nailed a 20 and 28 yarder later in the game). Check out our Kicker Rankings in week two for some better options.

 

DEFENSES—SIT ‘EM

 

Baltimore Ravens D/ST @ San Diego

The Ravens D/ST failed miserably against Kansas City as far as fantasy owners are concerned. Even with Ed Reed and Terrell Suggs expected to play (concussions), San Diego is a much tougher opponent than their week one match-up, the Chiefs.

The Chargers have plenty of weapons in QB Philip Rivers, RBs LaDainian Tomlinson and Darren Sproles (if LT doesn’t play, Sproles may be even more dangerous than a banged up Tomlinson), and receivers Vincent Jackson and Antonio Gates.

The Ravens may be able to win this one, but you don’t get points for their W-L record.

For the Week Two Start Ems, click here!

*THIS ARTICLE WRITTEN BY BRUNO BOY JACOB LERMAN*

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NFL Week Two: Game of The Week (Fantasy Style)

With Week Two of the NFL season fast approaching, it is once again time for the Bruno Boys to pick a Game of the Week. As always, there’s a fantasy football twist, focusing on a game that we feel will have a lot of impact on the fantasy football world.

This week we will head to Arlington, Texas, and the grand opening of the new state-of-the-art 80,000-seat Cowboys Stadium, where the Dallas Cowboys will host their NFC East rivals, the New York Giants. Both teams are coming off victorious Week Ones. The Cowboys beat the Tampa Bay Buccaneers 34-21, while the Giants disposed of the Washington Redskins 23-17. This game should feature some explosive offensive fire power, so let’s take a look at the positional comparisons from a fantasy football standpoint.

Quarterbacks

Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo is coming off a huge week in which he passed for a career-high 353 yards with three passing touchdowns. He completed 16 of 27 pass attempts, while connecting with six different receivers. Romo did tweak his ankle in the game, but he did not miss anytime. He is expected to play this week, saying his ankle is sore, but he will tape it up and be ready to go.

Romo is the Bruno Boys No. 9 ranked quarterback this week and he is a must start, even against a solid Giants Defense.

The Giants’ Eli Manning also had a good game Week One. He was 20 for 29 passing for 256 yards with one touchdown and one interception. Manning also did a very good job spreading the ball around, hitting seven different receivers on the day. Manning should be considered a high-end QB2 this week and is our No. 14 ranked quarterback.

Running Backs

Both teams feature similar running back systems. They both have power starting running backs and very speedy change of pace runners. The Cowboys’ Marion Barber is coming off a season in which he was slowed by injuries, which have left many of us questioning his durability. In the Cowboys’ Week One contest Barber looked healthy, finishing the game with 14 carries for 79 yards and a touchdown. The Bruno Boys are predicting a similar game from him this week as he is our No. 11 ranked running back.

The Giants’ starting running back is Brandon Jacobs, who powered his way to 46 yards on 16 carries last week. He should be considered a RB2 this week and is our No. 19 ranked running back.

As stated above, both teams feature speedy change of pace backs. The Giants’ Ahmad Bradshaw is ranked No. 35, and the Cowboys’ Felix Jones is ranked No. 49 on our running back rankings. They both could be used as a RB3 or flex position players, although Jones is nursing an injury and you should check his status before inserting him into your lineup.

Wide Receivers

The Cowboys showed Week One that they have a solid trio of wide receivers. Roy Williams, Patrick Crayton, and Austin Miles all had touchdowns of 42 yards or more last week. Williams ranks No. 9 on our wide receiver ranking this week, while Crayton and Austin rank No. 43 and No. 48 respectively. Consider Williams a low-end WR1 this week, but Crayton and Austin both need to prove they aren’t one-week wonders and would be best serve as reserves this week.

The Giants don’t have particularly high profile wide receivers, but in the Giants team system they can be very effective. Steve Smith, Domenik Hixon, and Mario Manningham all provide excellent targets for Eli Manning. Smith is the Bruno Boys No. 30 ranked wide receiver and should be considered a WR3 or flex option this week. Hixon ranks No. 39 and Manningham ranks No. 69 this week.

Tight Ends

The Cowboys’ Jason Witten is one of Romo’s favorite targets and one of the best tight ends in football. He led the Cowboys with five catches in Week One for 71 yards, and he is our No. 2 ranked tight end this week. Witten is a must-start tight end on a weekly basis.

The Giants’ Kevin Boss is in his second season as New York’s starting tight end and he is proving to be a reliable target for Manning. He had three receptions for 62 yards with a touchdown Week 1 and he could be used as a low-end TE1 this week if necessary.

Kickers

Both the Giants’ Lawrence Tynes and the Cowboys’ Nick Folk were perfect last week. Tynes scored 11 points, while Folk scored 10, and they both make solid starting kicker options this week.

 

Defense

Normally we don’t recommend starting the D/ST units in our featured Game of the Week as we are usually featuring what will be a high scoring affair, but the Giants possess one of the top-three units in fantasy football and are a must-start D/ST on a weekly basis. The Cowboys also have a solid D/ST and they could be used as a low-end starting unit this week.

FOR MORE FANTASY FOOTBALL INSIGHT AND ADVICE, CLICK THE LINK BELOW…

BRUNO BOYS FANTASY FOOTBALL

*THIS ARTICLE WRITTEN BY BRUNO BOY LARRY JOSEPH*

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Fantasy Football Week 2 Rankings: Defenses

Week One is in the books for the NFL, and we now have something other than projections to base our rankings on. Before heading to the Bruno Boys Fantasy Football Week 2 Defensive Rankings, let’s first acknowledge it is not time to panic after just one week of your fantasy football season.

Generally, you draft your defense because you have faith in them for the entire season. You should not drop whoever you own and start playing match ups until you’ve seen a few games and noted things are not looking up. With that being said, this weeks rankings will be based on Week One stats along with continued projections. As we head into the article, I would like to explain the “Bruno Boys Star System”.

BRUNO BOYS DEFENSIVE STAR SYSTEM

5-Stars (* * * * *)—Bruno Boys Top Plays of the Week

4-Stars (* * * *)—Bruno Boys Very Solid Plays of the Week

3-Stars (* * *)—Bruno Boys Average Plays of the Week

2-Stars (* *)—Bruno Boys Try to Avoid Playing this Week

1-Star (*)—Bruno Boys Do Not Start Unless You COMPLETELY Have To

Key Abbreviations: YPG (Yards Per Game); PPG (Points Per Game)

1. (Minnesota Vikings) @ Detroit Lions

Yes, the Lions lost yet again. Sure, the defense who plays them are likely to be a good start.

The Vikings are a top play for this week, but it’s not just because of the match-up. They simply have a strong defense led by a fantastic d-line. The Lions’ offense could be compared to the one the Vikings faced in Week One, the Cleveland Browns. Minnesota gave up 268 yards total to Cleveland, with most of those coming through the air (179).

With a rookie QB making mistakes in his first start (against a weak Saints defense), Matthew Stafford could be in for a long day. Expect Minnesota to keep the pressure on the Lions as they did the Browns, when they totaled five sacks. 

Bruno Boys Stars: *****

2. (Washington Redskins) vs. St. Louis Rams

While the Redskins lost their first game against the Giants, their defense showed promise but didn’t do anything outstanding as they forced just a couple turnovers, recorded one sack, and gave up 351 yards.

Expect awesomeness in Week Two, however, as they face a Rams team this week that got shut out in Week One and whose offense looked downright putrid, totaling 247 yards. Washington’s defense will dominate this game from start to finish.

Bruno Boys Stars: *****

3. (Seattle Seahawks) @ San Francisco 49ers

The Seahawks’ defense was very impressive in Week One against a divisional foe, pitching a shut out while only allowing 247 yards of offense.

While the 49ers beat the reigning NFC Champs, their offense was less than impressive against a meager defense, as they totaled 203 yards. Seattle’s defense was picked as a sleeper defense coming into the year, and they will continue to shine through the second week of the season.

Bruno Boys Stars: *****

4. (Green Bay Packers) vs. Cincinnati Bengals

The move from a 4-3 defense to a 3-4 for the Packers went a lot better than most people thought it would. The Packers forced new Bears quarterback Jay Cutler into throwing four interceptions and racking up a couple sacks.

The Bengals offense was supposed to be rejuvenated heading into the year and were expected to blow up the scene against a weak Denver team. Instead, they did nothing but shoot blanks. The Bengals haven’t had too much success against 3-4 defenses, and this will continue this week.

Bruno Boys Stars: ****

5. (Pittsburgh Steelers) @ Chicago Bears

The Steelers didn’t do well in Week One, giving up 320 yards, forcing two turnovers, and only getting one sack.

With the way the Bears looked in Week One, though, expect a significant upgrade from the preseasons’ top ranked defense.

Cutler will need to improve his reads of a 3-4 defense, but that will be hard as he will see added pressure from a mastermind in defensive coordinator Dick LeBeau. The Steelers are without Troy Polamalu, but the way the Bears looked against the Packers, it may not matter.

Bruno Boys Stars: ****

6. (Denver Broncos) vs. Cleveland Browns

Did the Denver Broncos defense, who many ranked near the bottom of the league going into the season, really only give up seven points this past week? There is a lot of doubt as to whether those numbers can continue, but for one more week, it’s tough to say they won’t. Denver gave up 307 yards in Week One, but also recorded two interceptions and three sacks.

Going up against a Browns offense still trying to find their way, the Broncos are worth a flier if you are need of a spot start defense this week.

Bruno Boys Stars: ****   

7. (Tennessee Titans) vs. Houston Texans

The Houston Texans were supposed to be an explosive offense with a healthy Matt Schaub throwing to the dynamic Andre Johnson, with the electric Steve Slaton in the backfield, but that wasn’t the case in Week One. The Tennessee Titans gave up a low 36 rushing yards last week, but a high of 321 pass yards.

Could this be a recipe for Houston to get back on track, or for the Titans to develop their overall defense? Expect the latter, as Tennessee’s defensive line looks as strong as a year ago, while the Texans offense looked to be in a major funk putting up a total of 183 yards of offense against the Jets.

Bruno Boys Stars: * * * *

8. (Arizona Cardinals) @ Jacksonville Jaguars

This may be a bit of a reach, but Arizona’s defense did a nice job against the 49ers in Week One, while the Jaguars offense struggled against the Colts. Arizona allowed a mere 203 yards of total offense while adding four sacks. The Jaguars couldn’t get their offense going against a mediocre Colts defense, gaining 228 yards.

With Jacksonville starting a young offensive line, Arizona’s defense should have success in Week Two.

Bruno Boys Stars: ****

9. (New York Giants) @ Dallas Cowboys

The Giants did very well in Week One against a good Redskins team, allowing 272 yards and creating three sacks, three turnovers, and scoring a touchdown. The Cowboys offense looked impressive against the Bucs, gaining 462 yards.

Who wins this battle of offense versus defense? It could go either way, but look for the defense to come out ahead on this one.

Bruno Boys Stars: ***

10. (Indianapolis Colts) @ Miami Dolphins

The Colts defense did well in Week One, allowing 228 yards and 12 points. Miami’s offense was a disaster against Atlanta, with four turnovers. The Dolphins do have playmakers on offense, but Indy’s defense should be a good spot start for this week.

Bruno Boys Stars: ***

11. (Baltimore Ravens) @ San Diego Chargers

Baltimore’s defense wasn’t stout against the Chiefs last week, as they allowed 24 points. They did play well in allowing the third lowest amount of yards at 188. This may be a dangerous match-up, but after seeing the Chargers’ offense struggle against the Raiders, you have to like the Ravens’ defense to at least be an average play this week, which is where we rank them.

Bruno Boys Stars: ***

12. (Philadelphia Eagles) vs. New Orleans Saints

The Eagles were the best defense in Week One, allowing a league low 169 yards, forcing five sacks, seven turnovers, and scoring two touchdowns. The Saints were the best offense in Week One, putting up 45 points on 515 yards.

What can you expect from this match-up? Well, New Orleans will score, but the Eagles’ defense will still put up decent numbers. This match-up can be seen as a risky play, but you should at least get average numbers out of Philly.

Bruno Boys Stars: ***

For the rest of the BRUNO BOYS FANTASY FOOTBALL WEEK 2 RANKINGS, click HERE!

*THIS ARTICLE WRITTEN BY BRUNO BOY GREG WARNOCK*

 

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Is Donovan McNabb Going To Play in Week Two

After what seemed like a long off season, Week One of the NFL season is in the books.

Hopefully all of your hard work studying projections, player rankings, mock drafts, and cheat sheets has paid off, leading to a 1-0 record after the first week of fantasy football. Whether you won or lost your first game, you can’t get overly excited as one game does not make or break a fantasy football season.

Fantasy football is not a sprint, it’s a marathon and whether you won or lost Week One, you need to remain focused and put the best lineup together to secure a victory in Week Two. So as you ponder your best potential starting lineup for the upcoming week, the Bruno Boys will take a look at some news around the NFL and study it’s potential fantasy football impact.

Donovan McNabb Injures Ribs, Misses Practice on Wednesday

Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Donovan McNabb missed practice on Wednesday with fractured ribs, which he injured during the Eagles’ 38-10 victory over the Carolina Panthers last week. The injury happened on what appeared to be a late hit after McNabb scored on a three-yard run in the third quarter.

Eagles head coach Andy Reid has declined to rule McNabb out for this Sunday’s contest at home against the New Orleans Saints, but missing Wednesday’s practice is a pretty good sign that McNabb will rest the injury during Week Two.

Backup quarterback Kevin Kolb has taken most of the snaps at practice with the Eagles’ starting offense and he would appear to have the lead over recently signed journeyman Jeff Garcia. McNabb owners should keep an eye on this situation, if he does not practice by Friday; there is a minimal chance he will play in the Week Two contest.

Neither a healthy Kolb nor an injured McNabb are recommended starting options this week.

 

Pierre Thomas Returns to Practice on Wednesday, Could Split Carries with Mike Bell

According to New Orleans Saints’ head coach Sean Peyton, Pierre Thomas practiced in full on Wednesday and he has a chance to play in Week Two when the team travels to Philadelphia to play the Eagles. Thomas missed the Saints’ Week One victory over the Detroit Lions with a sprained MCL on his left knee.

He practiced with a brace on the injured knee and according to Peyton, he has looked good. The coach also added that he needs to get into the flow of things with the conditioning level and everything that goes with it. Peyton also said that if Thomas is able to return this week, he will likely split carries with Mike Bell.

Bell filled in admirably for Thomas Week One, gaining 143 yards on 28 carries. Keep an eye on this situation heading into Sunday, but if Thomas and Bell do split carries, they will cut into each other’s production making neither back more then a RB3 heading into a tough defensive matchup with the Philadelphia Eagles in Week Two.

 

Tomlinson Wears Boot on His Left Foot, Misses Practice on Wednesday

San Diego Chargers’ running back LaDainian Tomlinson missed practice on Wednesday with an apparent sprained right ankle. He injured the ankle during a first quarter touchdown run on Monday night when the Chargers beat the Oakland Raiders. He continued to play off and on during the game, before the Chargers turned almost exclusively to backup Darren Sproles in the fourth quarter. Tomlinson appeared at the team’s weekly news conference with a protective boot on the injured ankle.

Tomlinson missed quite a bit of time last season with toe and groin injuries and is officially listed as questionable for the Chargers’ home opener on Sunday against the Baltimore Ravens. If Tomlinson is unable to go against the Ravens, the Chargers will turn to Sproles as the primary back, with San Diego’s No. 3 running back Michael Bennett also likely seeing action.

Tomlinson had 55 yards on 13 carries with a touchdown during the Chargers Week One victory, but injuries are starting to take a toll on the former Pro-Bowl running back and if he does play, he shouldn’t be considered more than a low-end RB2 this week.

Greg Jennings Limited in Practice on Wednesday with Wrist Injury

Green Bay Packers’ wide receiver Greg Jennings was limited at practice on Wednesday with an apparent wrist injury. This is a new injury, as Jennings did not appear on the injury report before the Packers Week One victory over the Chicago Bears. Packers’ head coach Mike McCarthy doesn’t believe the injury will limit Jennings during the team’s Week Two matchup with the Cincinnati Bengals. McCarthy added that they are just being cautious with him during practice this week.

It appears that Jennings will be ready to go this week without limitation. This is good news for the Packers and fantasy owners alike. After a slow start in Week One, Jennings finished the game with six receptions for 106 yards and a touchdown. Keep an eye on this situation, but if he does not have any setbacks consider Jennings a must-start WR1 this week at home against the Bengals.

 

Tony Romo Injures Ankle, Expects To Play without Limitation in Week Two

Dallas Cowboys’ quarterback Tony Romo played through the pain of an ankle injury during the team’s Week One victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. According to a report in the Dallas Morning News, Romo said that he is not concerned with the injury. He also added that he will tape it and not worry about it.

Romo does not expect to miss any practice time this week as he looks to build off the career high 353 passing yards with three touchdowns he posted last week. The Cowboys face a tougher defense though, as they host the New York Giants in the opening of the Cowboys’ new stadium. The Giants do possess a good pass rush and they will look to put pressure on Romo and force him to make some poor decisions.

The injury does not appear to be a concern at this time and Romo should be considered a must-start this week even against a solid defense.

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Fantasy Football: Week One Reception Leaders

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Fantasy Football Week Two Rankings: Wide Receivers

If Week One reaffirmed anything about the wide receiver position, it was the idea that out of all the fantasy positions wide receivers are the hardest to predict.

Sure, some big names like Reggie Wayne and Randy Moss rose to the occasion in the opening week, but others like Andre Johnson and Terrell Owens came up short. Meanwhile, fantasy owners are feverishly trying to learn everything they can about guys like Oakland Raiders rookie wide receiver Louis Murphy.

Luckily for Bruno Boys Nation, the Bruno Boys are here to make your decision in regard to the wide receiver position a bit easier with the Bruno Boys Fantasy Football Week Two Rankings.

 

1. Larry Fitzgerald (Arizona Cardinals) at Jacksonville

Despite Arizona’s relative struggle to throw the ball against the 49ers in Week One, Fitzgerald put up respectable numbers with six catches for 71 yards and a touchdown. The team is still transitioning from the play-calling of offensive coordinator Todd Haley last year to head coach Ken Whisenhunt this season, so look for them to be more in sync this week.

Point Projection: 18 points

 

2. Randy Moss (New England Patriots) at New York Jets

The Jets did an outstanding job shutting down Andre Johnson in their Week One win over Houston, but Tom Brady is no Matt Schaub. Moss lit up the Bills with 12 catches for 141 yards in their come-from-behind win on Monday Night Football, and though The Freak didn’t haul in a touchdown pass, that’ll change this week.

Point Projection: 17 points

 

3. Andre Johnson (Houston Texans) at Tennessee

Johnson was one of the bigger disappointments for fantasy owners in Week One, as he managed only four catches for 35 yards. Just twice last season, he had games with fewer receiving yards, and a bounce-back is in order against a Titans team that was skewered for 321 yards by the Steelers last week, not to mention the fact he’ll have Kevin Walter back to take some of the burden off of him.

Point Projection: 17 points

 

4. Reggie Wayne (Indianapolis Colts) at Miami

Wayne was utterly dominant in the Colts’ win over the Jaguars last week, catching 10 passes for 162 yards and one touchdown. The Dolphins do not possess the personnel to slow Wayne, a University of Miami product, who should take some comfort in playing in the city where he did his thing in college.

Point Projection: 16 points

 

5. Greg Jennings (Green Bay Packers) vs. Cincinnati

Jennings had a rock-solid first week, with 106 receiving yards and one touchdown against the Bears. He’ll continue his ascension in becoming one of the NFL’s elite wideouts this week against the Bengals. Cincy was pretty good against the pass against Denver—for most of the game, that is—but Aaron Rodgers is far more talented than Kyle Orton.

Point Projection: 16 points

 

6. Calvin Johnson (Detroit Lions) vs. Minnesota

Unfortunately, the one who may suffer the most with Matthew Stafford being the starter in Detroit is Megatron himself. Case in point: Johnson had three catches for 90 yards, which are respectable numbers, but he was targeted 13 times. It’s great that Stafford looked for him so much, but his accuracy is an issue. Nonetheless, Johnson’s as talented a receiver as there is in the NFL, and he’ll still produce, just maybe not as much as he would with a veteran quarterback.

Point Projection: 15 points

 

7. Roddy White (Atlanta Falcons) vs. Carolina

The Panthers gave up fewer than 100 passing yards to the Eagles in their Week One loss. Then again, with Philly starting inside the opponent’s 50 every time due to Jake Delhomme’s errant passes, there weren’t a lot of yards to be had. White had just five catches for 42 yards in the opener, but those numbers will jump significantly this week.

Point Projection: 15 points

 

8. Marques Colston (New Orleans Saints) vs. Philadelphia

Colston caught three passes for 30 yards and a touchdown against the hapless Lions, and the damage could have been much greater, but Drew Brees was being generous and spreading the ball around to everyone. Colston is a big, tough, target, and, even against an opponent as hearty as the Eagles, he’ll produce.

Point Projection: 14 points

 

9. Roy Williams (Dallas Cowboys) vs. New York Giants

It was nice to see Williams make the big plays we all knew he was capable of. He caught just three passes against the Buccaneers in Dallas’ Week One victory, but took one of them 66 yards to the house and wound up with 86 receiving yards. Tony Romo is OK to go this week, and so too is Williams.

Point Projection: 14 points

 

10. Steve Smith (Carolina Panthers) at Atlanta

The horrific play of Jake Delhomme cannot be understated, and that led to Smith catching just three passes for 21 yards despite being targeted 13 times. Still, we’ll give Delhomme the benefit of the doubt for one more week. Smith flambéed the Falcons secondary twice last year, coming up with a total of 14 catches for 264 yards and one touchdown. For him to do so again, Delhomme needs to stop throwing to the opposing team.

Point Projection: 13 points

 

11. Terrell Owens (Buffalo Bills) vs. Tampa Bay

Once a week, Owens will display a case of alligator arms—it’s a fact fantasy owners have had to live with for some time. He did it again in Buffalo’s loss to New England on Monday, and wound up with just two catches for 46 yards. This week, however, he goes up against a Tampa pass defense that was absolutely scorched by the Cowboys.

Point Projection: 13 points

 

12. Vincent Jackson (San Diego Chargers) vs. Baltimore

Jackson and Co. face the Ravens on Sunday, in a matchup that looked tougher before the season began. That’s because Kansas City’s Brodie Croyle threw for two touchdowns en route to a 116.1 passer rating—the fourth highest of the week. Jackson is big and fast and can beat any opponent on any given play, as he did in the team’s win against Oakland, when he had five catches for 56 yards and a touchdown.

Point Projection: 13 points

---

FOR THE REST OF THE WEEK 2 WIDE RECEIVER RANKINGS, CLICK HERE!

*THIS ARTICLE WRITTEN BY BRUNO BOY KYLE SMITH* 

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NFL Week One Injury Impact: Breaks, Bumps, & Bruises Hurting Fantasy Teams

Doesn’t it seem like almost every week in the NFL, someone from your favorite team comes away with an injury that puts him on the injury report?

The same thing can be said with your fantasy football team, as injuries to some of your guys force you to look to your bench earlier than you thought. Time to see which injuries from Week One have the potential to make the biggest impact in the fantasy football world.

 

Donovan McNabb, QB, Philadelphia Eagles: McNabb suffered a cracked rib against the Carolina Panthers that could sideline him this week against the New Orleans Saints. Right now, you need to have a backup QB ready because in all likelihood, McNabb won’t be playing. Not only is this week a concern for McNabb owners, but with the news of offensive lineman Shawn Andrews landing on the IR plus Michael Vick coming back in Week Three, McNabb could be losing snaps at times. Sure he is a good quarterback, but with broken ribs, the return of Vick and the loss of one of his best offensive lineman, things aren’t looking so bright for McNabb owners.

Anthony Gonzalez, WR, Indianapolis Colts: Gonzalez strained a ligament in his left knee during the first quarter of the Colts game against the Jacksonville Jaguars. The prognosis is for him to miss two to six weeks. While two weeks is being extremely optimistic, your best bet is to expect the latter. The Colts will not rush him back onto the field under any circumstance and will try to break in less experienced options, Austin Collie and Pierre Garcon.

Tony Romo, QB, Dallas Cowboys: An MRI showed Romo does not have a high ankle sprain and should be good to go next week against the New York Giants. Romo looked very good behind center but was playing a weak Tampa Bay Buccaneers team. Expect a tougher outing for Romo this week but the ankle shouldn’t be cause for concern.

LaDainian Tomlinson, RB, San Diego Chargers: Tomlinson was not on the field for the Chargers final drive of the game due to a sprained ankle. LT says he could have played if needed but was starting to tighten up as the game went on. Not sure the injury is a concern as much as his playing time. Darren Sproles took a lot of his snaps in the game and was featured a lot more in catching balls out of the backfield, something Tomlinson did well in years past. No need to worry over an injury here but do be concerned the Chargers may hold him back to have him rested for later in the year.

Troy Polamalu, S, Pittsburgh Steelers: Polamalu may be one of the best safeties in the game, making unbelievable plays every week. Good news is he will not need surgery on his left knee and will miss anywhere in the time frame of three to six weeks. This is a big loss in IDP leagues, as he is always making big plays. Anyone owning the Steelers Defense should not worry though. Pittsburgh should have linebacker Lawrence Timmons on the field this week, which means defensive coordinator Dick LeBeau will have more flexibility in his blitz packages to compensate for the loss of Polamalu. Expect Polamalu to be out over a month, as the Steelers won’t try to rush him back. It should be noted though, the USC grad is a fast healer.

Brian Urlacher, LB, Chicago Bears: What a blow to the Bears defense. They lose their leader in the middle of their defense, the guy who makes all the calls and lines everyone up in the right spots. While people in Individual Defensive Player leagues will miss his 100 tackles, his sack numbers dropped off last year. The Bears defense will take the biggest hit though, as they will struggle with assignments and likely blow a lot of easy plays. Monitor how they do in the coming weeks, but fantasy football owners shouldn’t expect what was originally thought from this team defense.

Antonio Bryant, WR, Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Bryant returned to the field after having offseason surgery to his knee. He played a little over a half in the opener before shutting it down, which raises concerns among fantasy football owners. Bryant said it was simply due to not playing in a game on his reconstructed knee and he will be fine for Week Two. Since there is no evidence of it being anything else, you must take him at his word for now and hope this is the case.

Hakeem Nicks, WR, New York Giants: Nicks played decently in his first NFL game for the Giants, as he was targeted 4 times and caught two passes for 18 yards. Now he has a couple weeks to reflect on his day. Nicks will be out two to three weeks with a sprained left foot, costing him a chance to continue his growth in the offense and become a good second half fantasy football receiver. While you may not care about this injury, it is the type that could linger well into the season and for a guy who could have had an impact during your playoff fantasy stretch, it doesn’t seem like that impact may happen now.         

Anquan Boldin, WR, Arizona Cardinals: Boldin played on Sunday but was not effective, with two grabs for 19 yards. While his hamstring seems to be sore, it is believed he did not suffer any setback and should be fine for this coming week. Boldin is a tough, hard-nosed football player who tends to play with injury. Don’t expect him to miss time unless something happens in practice this week.

Steve Breaston, WR, Arizona Cardinals: It was a shock to see Breaston not play in Week One with his right knee injury, as he practiced all week. The Cardinals held him out for precautionary reasons but he should be good to go this week with another week of practice. Don’t hesitate to throw him into your lineup as a WR3 or Flex play in Week Two as the Cardinals have a favorable matchup against the Jacksonville Jaguars. 

 

FOR MORE FANTASY FOOTBALL INSIGHT AND ADVICE, CLICK THE LINK BELOW…

BRUNO BOYS FANTASY FOOTBALL

*THIS ARTICLE WRITTEN BY BRUNO BOY GREG WARNOCK.*

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