JohnnyU
Footballguy
http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/Starts...ition-5808.html
START ‘EM UP
Jason Campbell, QB, Oakland Raiders: Jason Campbell in the Start category? No, your eyes aren’t deceiving you. The former Washington Redskin signal-caller torched the Jaguars last Sunday for 324 yards and two scores en route to a passer rating of 127.6 and has a very favorable Week 15 matchup against a Denver Broncos secondary that is surrendering 20.9 fantasy points per week to opposing quarterbacks (fourth-most in NFL). The Broncos have lost eight of their last nine games, are giving up 28.9 points per contest (worst in NFL) and appear to have officially quit on the season, meaning Campbell’s likely line for a big day.
Jonathan Stewart, RB, Carolina Panthers: After frustrating owners for the majority of the 2010 season, J-Stew has been red hot down the stretch as the third-year running back has amassed 323 rushing yards and one touchdown on 51 carries over his last three games. More importantly, Stewart’s averaging a rock-solid 6.3 yards per carry over his last three outings and appears to finally be running behind a healthy pair of legs. If the Panthers have any intention of trying to notch their second win over the season on Sunday, the smart play would be to attack the Cardinals via the ground game, where Arizona ranks 30th in the league (143.3 yds/gm). Be sure to keep in mind that for as bad as the Panthers have been this season, the Cardinals are giving up a staggering 25.2 fantasy points per week to opposing running backs (second-most in NFL).
Santana Moss, WR, Washington Redskins: The veteran wideout has found the end zone twice in his last four games and is coming off an impressive 14-point Week 14 fantasy performance (7-82-1, 10 targets) against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Moss has been inconsistent at times this season, but keep in mind he’s averaging a healthy 8.5 targets per game and has a soft matchup this Sunday against a Dallas Cowboys team that ranks 27th in pass defense (254.4 yds/gm) and is currently surrendering an average of 29.5 fantasy points per week to opposing wide receivers, which is more than any other team in the league. If the Washington offensive line can keep quarterback Donovan McNabb upright on Sunday, Moss should produce a respectable stat line.
UPDATE: With Rex Grossman getting the start in place of Donovan McNabb this Sunday, Moss’ value takes a hit. Consider him a WR3 at best.
ICON
This is the matchup Brown owners have been waiting for.
Ronnie Brown, RB, Miami Dolphins: Brown hasn’t logged a 100+ yard game all season and is currently riding a four-game touchdown drought, which may have you wondering why we like him this Sunday. It’s simple, as the veteran running back has a very favorable matchup (good weather, too!) against a Buffalo Bills team that ranks dead last in the NFL in run defense (165.8 yds/gm) and is currently surrendering an average of 23.4 fantasy points per week to opposing ball-carriers (fourth-most in NFL). Keep in mind that when these two teams got together back in Week 1, Brown amassed 85 total yards and one touchdown for one of his most productive fantasy games of the season.
Kenny Britt, WR, Tennessee Titans: Britt’s return to the starting lineup after suffering a hamstring injury resulted in an underwhelming four-catch, 39-yard performance against the Indianapolis Colts back in Week 14. However, owners are advised to get the second-year receiver back in the starting lineup for this Sunday’s divisional showdown with a Houston Texans secondary that ranks dead last in pass defense this season (279.9 yds/gm) and is allowing an average of 26.2 fantasy points per game to opposing wide receivers (second-most in NFL). Randy Moss has been a total bust since joining the Titans, which should be one of the main reasons quarterback Kerry Collins targets Britt early and often in Week 15.
Kevin Boss, TE, New York Giants: The New York tight end has found the end zone in four of his last six games as Boss continues to quietly deliver respectable fantasy totals for savvy owners. As far as Week 15 matchups are concerned, you won’t find a tight end anywhere in the league that is walking into a more favorable situation than the 26-year old from Western Oregon. Boss and Big Blue play host to a Philadelphia Eagles defense on Sunday that A) will be without starting MLB Stewart Bradley and B) is giving up more fantasy points to opposing tight ends (10.0 pts/gm) than any other team in the league. With wide receiver Steve Smith back on the shelf, Boss should see a healthy dose of targets heading his way this weekend.
Dallas Cowboys, D/ST: This unit has been an utter disaster in 2010 as the Cowboys currently rank 21st in scoring among fantasy D/STs. However, if you’re an owner that has been playing the waiver wire week-to-week in search of a quality matchup, this could be the squad for you. The Cowboys play host to a freefalling Washington Redskins team on Sunday that currently ranks 27th in scoring (18.3 pts/gm) and 16th in total offense (338.2 yds/gm). In addition, the Redskins have scored fewer than 20 points in each of their last four outings and are currently giving up an average of 10.8 fantasy points per week to opposing D/STs (sixth-most in NFL). This unit is no lock to produce, but it’s certainly one of the more favorable matchups on the Week 15 schedule.
SIT ‘EM DOWN
Ryan Fitzpatrick, QB, Buffalo Bills: Let’s call a spade a spade and admit that Fitzpatrick has turned out to be a very nice waiver wire pickup this season. However, Week 15 is one of the most important weeks of the fantasy season which means owners need to be extra vigilant and realize that Fitz hasn’t thrown for more than 160 yards in either of his last two games and has tossed multiple TD passes just one time over his last seven outings. Wide receiver Lee Evans has been shut down for the season, which gives Fitzpatrick one less weapon at his disposal entering a Sunday showdown in Miami against the NFL’s sixth-ranked pass defense (200.6 yds/gm). In addition, the Dolphins are giving up an average of just 15.6 fantasy points per game to opposing quarterbacks this season (seventh-fewest in NFL) and have surrendered a grand total of only 15 touchdown passes in 13 games (sixth-fewest in NFL).
It's been a while since L.T. has found the end zone.
LaDainian Tomlinson & Shonn Greene, RBs, New York Jets: Tomlinson hasn’t scored a touchdown since October 17 (seven games) and has failed to top 50 rushing yards in each of his last four games. Meanwhile, Greene hasn’t found the end zone since October 11 (eight games) and has rushed for under 75 yards in each of his last nine contests. With these two ball-carriers stealing each other’s touches on Sunday, owners should expect a couple of low fantasy totals against a Pittsburgh Steelers defense that ranks first in the NFL against the run (60.1 yds/gm) and is surrendering a measly 11.3 fantasy points per week to opposing running backs (fewest in NFL). Remember, **** LeBeau’s unit has allowed just four rushing touchdowns in 13 games this season (fewest in NFL).
Anquan Boldin, WR, Baltimore Ravens: If you exclude his December 5 outburst against the Pittsburgh Steelers (5-118-1, 9 targets), Boldin is averaging just 4.2 fantasy points per week over his last five outings. Not exactly what you were hoping to read heading into a semifinal playoff game this weekend, huh? While the former Arizona Cardinal has the ability to turn one catch into a solid fantasy week, keep in mind that Boldin has a tough matchup vs. a New Orleans Saints team that ranks fourth in the NFL in pass defense (213.7 yds/gm) and is giving up just 13.9 fantasy points per week to opposing wide receivers (second-fewest in NFL). Weather could be a factor here as well, so be sure to keep that in mind on Sunday morning.
Rashard Mendenhall, RB, Pittsburgh Steelers: The third-year ball-carrier out of Illinois has been the definition of a workhorse back this season. But owners need to recognize that Mendenhall has topped 75 rushing yards in only two of his last eight games and has been held scoreless over his last two outings. Expect Week 15 to be another tough go for the Pittsburgh running back as Mendenhall goes head-on with a New York Jets team that ranks third in the NFL in run defense (88.5 yds/gm) and is surrendering only 12.4 fantasy points per week to opposing running backs (second-fewest in NFL). Owners are advised to look for another option.
MSW's opportunities will likely be limited on Sunday.
Mike Sims-Walker, WR, Jacksonville Jaguars: Despite scoring three touchdowns over his last five starts, MSW has caught four or fewer passes in eight of his last nine outings, meaning PPR owners should definitely be looking for another option. The problem with this Sunday’s game at Indianapolis for Sims-Walker owners is two-fold. First, look for Colts defensive ends Robert Mathis and Dwight Freeney to put some serious pressure on quarterback David Garrard, making it difficult for the Jacksonville signal-caller to take shots down the field. Second, the Jags know that if they want to come away with a victory, they’ll need to feature a heavy dose of their potent ground attack against the league’s 29th ranked run defense (141.1 yds/gm). In addition, keep in mind that Indy is surrendering just 17.9 fantasy points per week to opposing wide receivers (fifth-fewest in NFL).
Kellen Winslow, TE, Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Winslow’s found the end zone three times over his last five games, but has failed to top 50 receiving yards in seven of his last nine outings. Despite the fact that he is playing the Lions this weekend, owners need to recognize the fact that Detroit is allowing opposing tight ends to score an average of just 5.7 fantasy points per week (sixth-fewest in NFL). You’re better off going with another option at the tight end position this weekend.
Green Bay Packers, D/ST: This unit currently ranks third in the league in fantasy scoring, so a lot of credit should be given to how far the Green Bay defense has taken fantasy owners in 2010. However, the good times are headed for a crashing halt this Sunday night at Gillette Stadium when the Packers defense will be tasked with the unenviable job of trying to slow down Tom Brady and a Patriots offense that is scoring a league-leading 31.9 points per game this season. Be advised: opposing D/STs that have played the Patriots this year are averaging only 4.6 fantasy points per week (worst in NFL). Time to look for a replacement.
http://fantasyknuckleheads.com/week-15-wr-...the-start-list/
Well kids after a brutal couple of days dealing with Bronchitis, I am back. I have to apologize for not having the column up sooner, but being bed ridden is not exactly the environment suitable for predictions, especially in fantasy playoffs.
Remember, the playoffs put more emphasis on playing the matchups NOT necessarily the player’s name.
Keep in mind who is starting at QB (like Joe Webb for Minnesota, or David Garrard’s injury), and keep in mind the weather forecast for each game.
Also, make sure to understand the individual one on one matchups, such as the Jets’ elite corners versus the Steelers’ high end receivers….this situation favors the corners NOT the receivers.
OK, without further ado, let’s get right too things, and if you posted any questions elsewhere feel free to repost them here since it may take me just a bit to get to the other ones.
1. Reggie Wayne – Colts: Despite Manning’s up and down play each week, Wayne has continued to consistently produce on a weekly basis, and he has recently caught fire.
This week, Wayne comes in as my Must Start for several reasons.
The Jaguars are horrible at getting to the quarterback, rank 28th against the pass, and give up more yards per throw than any other team in the NFL.
If that’s not enough, Wayne torched the Jags in their last meeting (15 catches for 196 yards) and in his last two games, he has amassed 306 yards on 18 catches with one TD. Oh yeah, and the matchup will under a dome!
Exactly.
2. Roddy White – Falcons Roddy White against a Seahawks pass D that is horrendous and ranks 30th? Yeah, start him with confidence!
3. Marques Colston – Saints: Colston is one of the hottest trending receivers in fantasy right now, which is perfect for the fantasy playoffs. The Ravens are easily burned by deep receivers—as shown in the team coughing up 28 points to Houston last week—so Colston is a great start for your team.
4. Andre Johnson – Texans: Johnson is one of the best fantasy plays this week in a matchup that even Vegas is predicting as the highest scoring game of the week. Look out Mr. Finnegan!
5. T.O. – Bengals: T.O. is looking to move towards the end of the season with a bang, and the best way to do that is against a Cleveland defense he already torched for 222 yards and a score in their first meeting.
6. DeSean Jackson – Eagles: Jackson’s foot will not be an issue, and you can expect the Eagles to go to Jackson early, in an effort to jump on top of an injured Giants squad.
7. Calvin Johnson – Lions: The Bucs have lost shut down corner Aqib Talib, monster FS Cody Grimm, and one of their best pass rushers Gerald McCoy to IR. Megatron should have no trouble lighting it up against a significantly compromised Tampa pass D.
8. Steve Johnson – Bills: Johnson is one of just a few receivers in Week 15 with favorable weather, and probably the only receiver who will not only garner most of the targets—thanks to a Lee Evans injury—but also the only wide out to face a trio of undrafted rookies as the guys trying to defend him. You’d be foolish NOT to start him.
9. Miles Austin – Cowboys: The Redskins are without LaRon Landry making their 29th ranked pass D even more vulnerable. Expect Austin to have a breakout week.
10. Mike Williams – Buccaneers: The Lions can’t cover for squat and CB Nathan Vasher has declined in recent weeks (the guy Williams will face) so Williams is in line for a big day. Start him with confidence.
The Risk List:
1. Hakeem Nicks – Giants: It’s not that Nicks isn’t necessarily worth starting, but the Giants will be without Steve Smith, and Mario Manningham will try and play through a hip-flexor strain he is dealing with. This is likely to push the Giants to a run first approach, with more focus on their TE Kevin Boss, than Hakeem Nicks who is likely to be double teamed.
What really makes him a high risk/high reward player is the fact that the Eagles will inevitably try and jump on the injured Giants early, and if that’s the case, the Giants will be forced to turn to Nicks in catch-up fashion.
If you have someone with a more reliable matchup, I would use them. If not, then play Nicks.
2. Ocho Cinco – Bengals: With T.O. almost guaranteed to draw more coverage, Ocho will inevitably have more opportunities and targets. His ankle is a concern, however, since he has a long history with ankle injuries. If you have to use him in a playoff setting do so, but if you have someone more reliable go with them.
3. Brandon Lloyd – Broncos: Kyle Orton is dealing with some heavy injuries to his ribs and arm and hasn’t taken any reps outside of some minor ones in practice. While he will be listed as a game time decision, even if he does start, he is too much of a risk and it shows in his declining play. This deteriorates Brandon Lloyd’s fantasy value significantly, and unless you are forced to play him this week, you may want to start someone more favorable.
4. Brandon Gibson – Rams: Gibson has been systematically gaining more targets, and has been producing quite nicely for a WR3. But this week against Brandon Flowers is not the type of situation you want to flirt with in a playoff environment unless you have to.
5. Sidney Rice – Vikings: It is “highly likely” that Joe Webb will get the nod this week with Tavaris Jackson on IR, and Favre still not able to practice heavily. The problem is, this downgrades Sidney Rice’s fantasy value from a starter to a risky play at best. Ironically enough, if you’re looking for a W-R-T type of player go ahead and grab Webb who has QB and WR eligibility in Yahoo leagues.
Betcha ya’ll didn’t know that, did yas?
The Sit List:
1. Mike Sims-Walker – Jaguars: Put a fork in this guy, he’s done. MSW hasn’t topped 50 receiving yards in five weeks, only has two games for over 100 yards receiving, and is pretty much one of the biggest fantasy dissapointments of 2010.
MSW may see a slight increase in targets this week only because fellow teammate Mike Thomas is good enough to have opposing defenses double cover him, but don’t expect too much even against Indianapolis.
Not the guy you want to start in a playoff enviroment.
2. Hines Ward – Steelers: This game should be a FG fest, with little to zero scores. Ward will have a tough day with the Jets’ elite corners.
3. Santana Moss – Redskins: How many of you know that Rex Grossman will start at QB, NOT Donovan. How many of you actually trust Grossman? That’s what I thought, sit Moss this week.
4. Robert Meachem – Saints: The Saints are rolling with Colston right now, leaving Meachem out of the picture once again. Find another, more reliable, receiver this week.
5. Donald Driver – Packers: Too much uncertainty surrounding Driver’s health, and QB Aaron Rodgers’ health. Sit him this week.
When doing a start sit column there aren’t always enough spaces to mention every player who should be, and in the case of this week’s game between the Eagles and Giants, it is even more prevalent.
So this week, I thought I would give a quick breakdown of the main event, and how it will all affect the fantasy landscape.
The Breakdown:
The Giants are looking to find some way to finally beat these Eagles and certainly have the fire power to do it. But for fantasy owners, it comes down who is the absolute best player to give the nod to, especially if you have to choose between more than one Giants, or Eagles player you may own.
Keep in mind this is basically for the division so both teams will be playing at a very high level. Steve Smith is out, Mario Manningham is slightly injured but will play, and this game could be a shootout, but will probably wind up being a methodical run first type game.
What You Should Know:
Weather should play a small factor in this game with the anticipated precipitation, and the all-too-famous swirling winds in Giants Stadium. Jeremy Maclin had a breakout game the last time he faced the Giants torching them for 120 yards on 9 catches, but failed to register a score.
DeSean Jackson, Ahmad Bradshaw, Brandon Jackson, Hakeem Nicks all had pedestrian outings—all failing to register a single score as well.
Who To Watch:
As mentioned above, the Giants may be forced to turn to a run first approach, which should increase the value of running backs Brandon Jacobs and Ahmad Bradshaw, but also ILB/MLB Jamar Chaney of the Eagles who is definitely worth a look in IDP leagues.
I also like TE Kevin Boss in this match up as well with Steve Smith being out, and Mario Manningham banged up
http://www.sbnation.com/fantasy/2010/12/16...eman-joe-flacco
Week 15 Consensus Rankings
(appx. 21 sources currently analyzed)
Top 10 QBs
1. Peyton Manning (IND vs. JAX)
2. Michael Vick (PHI @ NYG)
3. Tom Brady (NE vs. GB)
4. Drew Brees (NO @ BAL)
5. Philip Rivers (SD vs. SF)
6. Matt Schaub (HOU @ TEN)
7. Matt Ryan (ATL @ SEA)
8. Eli Manning (NYG vs. PHI)
9. Joe Flacco (BAL vs. NO)
10. Josh Freeman (TB vs. DET)
For Complete Rankings Click Here
provided by PlayThisGuy.com
Week 15 Consensus Rankings
(appx. 21 sources currently analyzed)
Top 10 RBs
1. Arian Foster (HOU @ TEN)
2. Darren McFadden (OAK vs. DEN)
3. Michael Turner (ATL @ SEA)
4. Chris Johnson (TEN vs. HOU)
5. Peyton Hillis (CLE @ CIN)
6. Maurice Jones-Drew (JAX @ IND)
7. Knowshon Moreno (DEN @ OAK)
8. Adrian Peterson (MIN vs. CHI)
9. Steven Jackson (STL vs. KC)
10. Ray Rice (BAL vs. NO)
For Complete Rankings Click Here
provided by PlayThisGuy.com
Week 15 Consensus Rankings
(appx. 21 sources currently analyzed)
Top 10 WRs
1. Reggie Wayne (IND vs. JAX)
2. Andre Johnson (HOU @ TEN)
3. Roddy White (ATL @ SEA)
4. Marques Colston (NO @ BAL)
5. Hakeem Nicks (NYG vs. PHI)
6. DeSean Jackson (PHI @ NYG)
7. Calvin Johnson (DET @ TB)
8. Wes Welker (NE vs. GB)
9. Malcolm Floyd (SD vs. SF) <-------- LOL
10. Deion Branch (NE vs. GB)
For Complete Rankings Click Here
provided by PlayThisGuy.com
Week 15 Consensus Rankings
(appx. 21 sources currently analyzed)
Top 10 TEs
1. Jason Witten (DAL vs. WAS)
2. Vernon Davis (SF @ SD) <-----------LOL
3. Jacob Tamme (IND vs. JAX)
4. Tony Gonzalez (ATL @ SEA)
5. Marcedes Lewis (JAX @ IND)
6. Chris Cooley (WAS @ DAL) <---- yeah right
7. Kellen Winslow (TB vs. DET)
8. Kevin Boss (NYG vs. PHI) <---- Hmmm
9. Owen Daniels (HOU @ TEN) <---- Hmmmm
10. Rob Gronkowski (NE vs. GB)
For Complete Rankings Click Here
provided by PlayThisGuy.com
Week 15 Consensus Rankings
(appx. 21 sources currently analyzed)
Top 10 Ks
1. David Akers (PHI @ NYG)
2. Nate Kaeding (SD vs. SF)
3. Sebastian Janikowski (OAK vs. DEN)
4. Neil Rackers (HOU @ TEN)
5. Matt Bryant (ATL @ SEA)
6. Dan Carpenter (MIA vs. BUF)
7. Adam Vinatieri (IND vs. JAX)
8. Josh Brown (STL vs. KC)
9. Shayne Graham (NE vs. GB)
10. Garrett Hartley (NO @ BAL)
For Complete Rankings Click Here
provided by PlayThisGuy.com
Week 15 Consensus Rankings
(appx. 21 sources currently analyzed)
Top 10 D/ST
1. Pittsburgh Steelers (PIT vs. NYJ)
2. San Diego Chargers (SD vs. SF)
3. Chicago Bears (CHI @ MIN)
4. Atlanta Falcons (ATL @ SEA)
5. New England Patriots (NE vs. GB)
6. Miami Dolphins (MIA vs. BUF)
7. Dallas Cowboys (DAL vs. WAS) <------------Huh?
8. Oakland Raiders (OAK vs. DEN)
9. New York Giants (NYG vs. PHI)
10. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (TB vs. DET)
For Complete Rankings Click Here
START ‘EM UP
Jason Campbell, QB, Oakland Raiders: Jason Campbell in the Start category? No, your eyes aren’t deceiving you. The former Washington Redskin signal-caller torched the Jaguars last Sunday for 324 yards and two scores en route to a passer rating of 127.6 and has a very favorable Week 15 matchup against a Denver Broncos secondary that is surrendering 20.9 fantasy points per week to opposing quarterbacks (fourth-most in NFL). The Broncos have lost eight of their last nine games, are giving up 28.9 points per contest (worst in NFL) and appear to have officially quit on the season, meaning Campbell’s likely line for a big day.
Jonathan Stewart, RB, Carolina Panthers: After frustrating owners for the majority of the 2010 season, J-Stew has been red hot down the stretch as the third-year running back has amassed 323 rushing yards and one touchdown on 51 carries over his last three games. More importantly, Stewart’s averaging a rock-solid 6.3 yards per carry over his last three outings and appears to finally be running behind a healthy pair of legs. If the Panthers have any intention of trying to notch their second win over the season on Sunday, the smart play would be to attack the Cardinals via the ground game, where Arizona ranks 30th in the league (143.3 yds/gm). Be sure to keep in mind that for as bad as the Panthers have been this season, the Cardinals are giving up a staggering 25.2 fantasy points per week to opposing running backs (second-most in NFL).
Santana Moss, WR, Washington Redskins: The veteran wideout has found the end zone twice in his last four games and is coming off an impressive 14-point Week 14 fantasy performance (7-82-1, 10 targets) against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Moss has been inconsistent at times this season, but keep in mind he’s averaging a healthy 8.5 targets per game and has a soft matchup this Sunday against a Dallas Cowboys team that ranks 27th in pass defense (254.4 yds/gm) and is currently surrendering an average of 29.5 fantasy points per week to opposing wide receivers, which is more than any other team in the league. If the Washington offensive line can keep quarterback Donovan McNabb upright on Sunday, Moss should produce a respectable stat line.
UPDATE: With Rex Grossman getting the start in place of Donovan McNabb this Sunday, Moss’ value takes a hit. Consider him a WR3 at best.
ICON
This is the matchup Brown owners have been waiting for.
Ronnie Brown, RB, Miami Dolphins: Brown hasn’t logged a 100+ yard game all season and is currently riding a four-game touchdown drought, which may have you wondering why we like him this Sunday. It’s simple, as the veteran running back has a very favorable matchup (good weather, too!) against a Buffalo Bills team that ranks dead last in the NFL in run defense (165.8 yds/gm) and is currently surrendering an average of 23.4 fantasy points per week to opposing ball-carriers (fourth-most in NFL). Keep in mind that when these two teams got together back in Week 1, Brown amassed 85 total yards and one touchdown for one of his most productive fantasy games of the season.
Kenny Britt, WR, Tennessee Titans: Britt’s return to the starting lineup after suffering a hamstring injury resulted in an underwhelming four-catch, 39-yard performance against the Indianapolis Colts back in Week 14. However, owners are advised to get the second-year receiver back in the starting lineup for this Sunday’s divisional showdown with a Houston Texans secondary that ranks dead last in pass defense this season (279.9 yds/gm) and is allowing an average of 26.2 fantasy points per game to opposing wide receivers (second-most in NFL). Randy Moss has been a total bust since joining the Titans, which should be one of the main reasons quarterback Kerry Collins targets Britt early and often in Week 15.
Kevin Boss, TE, New York Giants: The New York tight end has found the end zone in four of his last six games as Boss continues to quietly deliver respectable fantasy totals for savvy owners. As far as Week 15 matchups are concerned, you won’t find a tight end anywhere in the league that is walking into a more favorable situation than the 26-year old from Western Oregon. Boss and Big Blue play host to a Philadelphia Eagles defense on Sunday that A) will be without starting MLB Stewart Bradley and B) is giving up more fantasy points to opposing tight ends (10.0 pts/gm) than any other team in the league. With wide receiver Steve Smith back on the shelf, Boss should see a healthy dose of targets heading his way this weekend.
Dallas Cowboys, D/ST: This unit has been an utter disaster in 2010 as the Cowboys currently rank 21st in scoring among fantasy D/STs. However, if you’re an owner that has been playing the waiver wire week-to-week in search of a quality matchup, this could be the squad for you. The Cowboys play host to a freefalling Washington Redskins team on Sunday that currently ranks 27th in scoring (18.3 pts/gm) and 16th in total offense (338.2 yds/gm). In addition, the Redskins have scored fewer than 20 points in each of their last four outings and are currently giving up an average of 10.8 fantasy points per week to opposing D/STs (sixth-most in NFL). This unit is no lock to produce, but it’s certainly one of the more favorable matchups on the Week 15 schedule.
SIT ‘EM DOWN
Ryan Fitzpatrick, QB, Buffalo Bills: Let’s call a spade a spade and admit that Fitzpatrick has turned out to be a very nice waiver wire pickup this season. However, Week 15 is one of the most important weeks of the fantasy season which means owners need to be extra vigilant and realize that Fitz hasn’t thrown for more than 160 yards in either of his last two games and has tossed multiple TD passes just one time over his last seven outings. Wide receiver Lee Evans has been shut down for the season, which gives Fitzpatrick one less weapon at his disposal entering a Sunday showdown in Miami against the NFL’s sixth-ranked pass defense (200.6 yds/gm). In addition, the Dolphins are giving up an average of just 15.6 fantasy points per game to opposing quarterbacks this season (seventh-fewest in NFL) and have surrendered a grand total of only 15 touchdown passes in 13 games (sixth-fewest in NFL).
It's been a while since L.T. has found the end zone.
LaDainian Tomlinson & Shonn Greene, RBs, New York Jets: Tomlinson hasn’t scored a touchdown since October 17 (seven games) and has failed to top 50 rushing yards in each of his last four games. Meanwhile, Greene hasn’t found the end zone since October 11 (eight games) and has rushed for under 75 yards in each of his last nine contests. With these two ball-carriers stealing each other’s touches on Sunday, owners should expect a couple of low fantasy totals against a Pittsburgh Steelers defense that ranks first in the NFL against the run (60.1 yds/gm) and is surrendering a measly 11.3 fantasy points per week to opposing running backs (fewest in NFL). Remember, **** LeBeau’s unit has allowed just four rushing touchdowns in 13 games this season (fewest in NFL).
Anquan Boldin, WR, Baltimore Ravens: If you exclude his December 5 outburst against the Pittsburgh Steelers (5-118-1, 9 targets), Boldin is averaging just 4.2 fantasy points per week over his last five outings. Not exactly what you were hoping to read heading into a semifinal playoff game this weekend, huh? While the former Arizona Cardinal has the ability to turn one catch into a solid fantasy week, keep in mind that Boldin has a tough matchup vs. a New Orleans Saints team that ranks fourth in the NFL in pass defense (213.7 yds/gm) and is giving up just 13.9 fantasy points per week to opposing wide receivers (second-fewest in NFL). Weather could be a factor here as well, so be sure to keep that in mind on Sunday morning.
Rashard Mendenhall, RB, Pittsburgh Steelers: The third-year ball-carrier out of Illinois has been the definition of a workhorse back this season. But owners need to recognize that Mendenhall has topped 75 rushing yards in only two of his last eight games and has been held scoreless over his last two outings. Expect Week 15 to be another tough go for the Pittsburgh running back as Mendenhall goes head-on with a New York Jets team that ranks third in the NFL in run defense (88.5 yds/gm) and is surrendering only 12.4 fantasy points per week to opposing running backs (second-fewest in NFL). Owners are advised to look for another option.
MSW's opportunities will likely be limited on Sunday.
Mike Sims-Walker, WR, Jacksonville Jaguars: Despite scoring three touchdowns over his last five starts, MSW has caught four or fewer passes in eight of his last nine outings, meaning PPR owners should definitely be looking for another option. The problem with this Sunday’s game at Indianapolis for Sims-Walker owners is two-fold. First, look for Colts defensive ends Robert Mathis and Dwight Freeney to put some serious pressure on quarterback David Garrard, making it difficult for the Jacksonville signal-caller to take shots down the field. Second, the Jags know that if they want to come away with a victory, they’ll need to feature a heavy dose of their potent ground attack against the league’s 29th ranked run defense (141.1 yds/gm). In addition, keep in mind that Indy is surrendering just 17.9 fantasy points per week to opposing wide receivers (fifth-fewest in NFL).
Kellen Winslow, TE, Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Winslow’s found the end zone three times over his last five games, but has failed to top 50 receiving yards in seven of his last nine outings. Despite the fact that he is playing the Lions this weekend, owners need to recognize the fact that Detroit is allowing opposing tight ends to score an average of just 5.7 fantasy points per week (sixth-fewest in NFL). You’re better off going with another option at the tight end position this weekend.
Green Bay Packers, D/ST: This unit currently ranks third in the league in fantasy scoring, so a lot of credit should be given to how far the Green Bay defense has taken fantasy owners in 2010. However, the good times are headed for a crashing halt this Sunday night at Gillette Stadium when the Packers defense will be tasked with the unenviable job of trying to slow down Tom Brady and a Patriots offense that is scoring a league-leading 31.9 points per game this season. Be advised: opposing D/STs that have played the Patriots this year are averaging only 4.6 fantasy points per week (worst in NFL). Time to look for a replacement.
http://fantasyknuckleheads.com/week-15-wr-...the-start-list/
Well kids after a brutal couple of days dealing with Bronchitis, I am back. I have to apologize for not having the column up sooner, but being bed ridden is not exactly the environment suitable for predictions, especially in fantasy playoffs.
Remember, the playoffs put more emphasis on playing the matchups NOT necessarily the player’s name.
Keep in mind who is starting at QB (like Joe Webb for Minnesota, or David Garrard’s injury), and keep in mind the weather forecast for each game.
Also, make sure to understand the individual one on one matchups, such as the Jets’ elite corners versus the Steelers’ high end receivers….this situation favors the corners NOT the receivers.
OK, without further ado, let’s get right too things, and if you posted any questions elsewhere feel free to repost them here since it may take me just a bit to get to the other ones.
1. Reggie Wayne – Colts: Despite Manning’s up and down play each week, Wayne has continued to consistently produce on a weekly basis, and he has recently caught fire.
This week, Wayne comes in as my Must Start for several reasons.
The Jaguars are horrible at getting to the quarterback, rank 28th against the pass, and give up more yards per throw than any other team in the NFL.
If that’s not enough, Wayne torched the Jags in their last meeting (15 catches for 196 yards) and in his last two games, he has amassed 306 yards on 18 catches with one TD. Oh yeah, and the matchup will under a dome!
Exactly.
2. Roddy White – Falcons Roddy White against a Seahawks pass D that is horrendous and ranks 30th? Yeah, start him with confidence!
3. Marques Colston – Saints: Colston is one of the hottest trending receivers in fantasy right now, which is perfect for the fantasy playoffs. The Ravens are easily burned by deep receivers—as shown in the team coughing up 28 points to Houston last week—so Colston is a great start for your team.
4. Andre Johnson – Texans: Johnson is one of the best fantasy plays this week in a matchup that even Vegas is predicting as the highest scoring game of the week. Look out Mr. Finnegan!
5. T.O. – Bengals: T.O. is looking to move towards the end of the season with a bang, and the best way to do that is against a Cleveland defense he already torched for 222 yards and a score in their first meeting.
6. DeSean Jackson – Eagles: Jackson’s foot will not be an issue, and you can expect the Eagles to go to Jackson early, in an effort to jump on top of an injured Giants squad.
7. Calvin Johnson – Lions: The Bucs have lost shut down corner Aqib Talib, monster FS Cody Grimm, and one of their best pass rushers Gerald McCoy to IR. Megatron should have no trouble lighting it up against a significantly compromised Tampa pass D.
8. Steve Johnson – Bills: Johnson is one of just a few receivers in Week 15 with favorable weather, and probably the only receiver who will not only garner most of the targets—thanks to a Lee Evans injury—but also the only wide out to face a trio of undrafted rookies as the guys trying to defend him. You’d be foolish NOT to start him.
9. Miles Austin – Cowboys: The Redskins are without LaRon Landry making their 29th ranked pass D even more vulnerable. Expect Austin to have a breakout week.
10. Mike Williams – Buccaneers: The Lions can’t cover for squat and CB Nathan Vasher has declined in recent weeks (the guy Williams will face) so Williams is in line for a big day. Start him with confidence.
The Risk List:
1. Hakeem Nicks – Giants: It’s not that Nicks isn’t necessarily worth starting, but the Giants will be without Steve Smith, and Mario Manningham will try and play through a hip-flexor strain he is dealing with. This is likely to push the Giants to a run first approach, with more focus on their TE Kevin Boss, than Hakeem Nicks who is likely to be double teamed.
What really makes him a high risk/high reward player is the fact that the Eagles will inevitably try and jump on the injured Giants early, and if that’s the case, the Giants will be forced to turn to Nicks in catch-up fashion.
If you have someone with a more reliable matchup, I would use them. If not, then play Nicks.
2. Ocho Cinco – Bengals: With T.O. almost guaranteed to draw more coverage, Ocho will inevitably have more opportunities and targets. His ankle is a concern, however, since he has a long history with ankle injuries. If you have to use him in a playoff setting do so, but if you have someone more reliable go with them.
3. Brandon Lloyd – Broncos: Kyle Orton is dealing with some heavy injuries to his ribs and arm and hasn’t taken any reps outside of some minor ones in practice. While he will be listed as a game time decision, even if he does start, he is too much of a risk and it shows in his declining play. This deteriorates Brandon Lloyd’s fantasy value significantly, and unless you are forced to play him this week, you may want to start someone more favorable.
4. Brandon Gibson – Rams: Gibson has been systematically gaining more targets, and has been producing quite nicely for a WR3. But this week against Brandon Flowers is not the type of situation you want to flirt with in a playoff environment unless you have to.
5. Sidney Rice – Vikings: It is “highly likely” that Joe Webb will get the nod this week with Tavaris Jackson on IR, and Favre still not able to practice heavily. The problem is, this downgrades Sidney Rice’s fantasy value from a starter to a risky play at best. Ironically enough, if you’re looking for a W-R-T type of player go ahead and grab Webb who has QB and WR eligibility in Yahoo leagues.
Betcha ya’ll didn’t know that, did yas?
The Sit List:
1. Mike Sims-Walker – Jaguars: Put a fork in this guy, he’s done. MSW hasn’t topped 50 receiving yards in five weeks, only has two games for over 100 yards receiving, and is pretty much one of the biggest fantasy dissapointments of 2010.
MSW may see a slight increase in targets this week only because fellow teammate Mike Thomas is good enough to have opposing defenses double cover him, but don’t expect too much even against Indianapolis.
Not the guy you want to start in a playoff enviroment.
2. Hines Ward – Steelers: This game should be a FG fest, with little to zero scores. Ward will have a tough day with the Jets’ elite corners.
3. Santana Moss – Redskins: How many of you know that Rex Grossman will start at QB, NOT Donovan. How many of you actually trust Grossman? That’s what I thought, sit Moss this week.
4. Robert Meachem – Saints: The Saints are rolling with Colston right now, leaving Meachem out of the picture once again. Find another, more reliable, receiver this week.
5. Donald Driver – Packers: Too much uncertainty surrounding Driver’s health, and QB Aaron Rodgers’ health. Sit him this week.
When doing a start sit column there aren’t always enough spaces to mention every player who should be, and in the case of this week’s game between the Eagles and Giants, it is even more prevalent.
So this week, I thought I would give a quick breakdown of the main event, and how it will all affect the fantasy landscape.
The Breakdown:
The Giants are looking to find some way to finally beat these Eagles and certainly have the fire power to do it. But for fantasy owners, it comes down who is the absolute best player to give the nod to, especially if you have to choose between more than one Giants, or Eagles player you may own.
Keep in mind this is basically for the division so both teams will be playing at a very high level. Steve Smith is out, Mario Manningham is slightly injured but will play, and this game could be a shootout, but will probably wind up being a methodical run first type game.
What You Should Know:
Weather should play a small factor in this game with the anticipated precipitation, and the all-too-famous swirling winds in Giants Stadium. Jeremy Maclin had a breakout game the last time he faced the Giants torching them for 120 yards on 9 catches, but failed to register a score.
DeSean Jackson, Ahmad Bradshaw, Brandon Jackson, Hakeem Nicks all had pedestrian outings—all failing to register a single score as well.
Who To Watch:
As mentioned above, the Giants may be forced to turn to a run first approach, which should increase the value of running backs Brandon Jacobs and Ahmad Bradshaw, but also ILB/MLB Jamar Chaney of the Eagles who is definitely worth a look in IDP leagues.
I also like TE Kevin Boss in this match up as well with Steve Smith being out, and Mario Manningham banged up
http://www.sbnation.com/fantasy/2010/12/16...eman-joe-flacco
Week 15 Consensus Rankings
(appx. 21 sources currently analyzed)
Top 10 QBs
1. Peyton Manning (IND vs. JAX)
2. Michael Vick (PHI @ NYG)
3. Tom Brady (NE vs. GB)
4. Drew Brees (NO @ BAL)
5. Philip Rivers (SD vs. SF)
6. Matt Schaub (HOU @ TEN)
7. Matt Ryan (ATL @ SEA)
8. Eli Manning (NYG vs. PHI)
9. Joe Flacco (BAL vs. NO)
10. Josh Freeman (TB vs. DET)
For Complete Rankings Click Here
provided by PlayThisGuy.com
Week 15 Consensus Rankings
(appx. 21 sources currently analyzed)
Top 10 RBs
1. Arian Foster (HOU @ TEN)
2. Darren McFadden (OAK vs. DEN)
3. Michael Turner (ATL @ SEA)
4. Chris Johnson (TEN vs. HOU)
5. Peyton Hillis (CLE @ CIN)
6. Maurice Jones-Drew (JAX @ IND)
7. Knowshon Moreno (DEN @ OAK)
8. Adrian Peterson (MIN vs. CHI)
9. Steven Jackson (STL vs. KC)
10. Ray Rice (BAL vs. NO)
For Complete Rankings Click Here
provided by PlayThisGuy.com
Week 15 Consensus Rankings
(appx. 21 sources currently analyzed)
Top 10 WRs
1. Reggie Wayne (IND vs. JAX)
2. Andre Johnson (HOU @ TEN)
3. Roddy White (ATL @ SEA)
4. Marques Colston (NO @ BAL)
5. Hakeem Nicks (NYG vs. PHI)
6. DeSean Jackson (PHI @ NYG)
7. Calvin Johnson (DET @ TB)
8. Wes Welker (NE vs. GB)
9. Malcolm Floyd (SD vs. SF) <-------- LOL
10. Deion Branch (NE vs. GB)
For Complete Rankings Click Here
provided by PlayThisGuy.com
Week 15 Consensus Rankings
(appx. 21 sources currently analyzed)
Top 10 TEs
1. Jason Witten (DAL vs. WAS)
2. Vernon Davis (SF @ SD) <-----------LOL
3. Jacob Tamme (IND vs. JAX)
4. Tony Gonzalez (ATL @ SEA)
5. Marcedes Lewis (JAX @ IND)
6. Chris Cooley (WAS @ DAL) <---- yeah right
7. Kellen Winslow (TB vs. DET)
8. Kevin Boss (NYG vs. PHI) <---- Hmmm
9. Owen Daniels (HOU @ TEN) <---- Hmmmm
10. Rob Gronkowski (NE vs. GB)
For Complete Rankings Click Here
provided by PlayThisGuy.com
Week 15 Consensus Rankings
(appx. 21 sources currently analyzed)
Top 10 Ks
1. David Akers (PHI @ NYG)
2. Nate Kaeding (SD vs. SF)
3. Sebastian Janikowski (OAK vs. DEN)
4. Neil Rackers (HOU @ TEN)
5. Matt Bryant (ATL @ SEA)
6. Dan Carpenter (MIA vs. BUF)
7. Adam Vinatieri (IND vs. JAX)
8. Josh Brown (STL vs. KC)
9. Shayne Graham (NE vs. GB)
10. Garrett Hartley (NO @ BAL)
For Complete Rankings Click Here
provided by PlayThisGuy.com
Week 15 Consensus Rankings
(appx. 21 sources currently analyzed)
Top 10 D/ST
1. Pittsburgh Steelers (PIT vs. NYJ)
2. San Diego Chargers (SD vs. SF)
3. Chicago Bears (CHI @ MIN)
4. Atlanta Falcons (ATL @ SEA)
5. New England Patriots (NE vs. GB)
6. Miami Dolphins (MIA vs. BUF)
7. Dallas Cowboys (DAL vs. WAS) <------------Huh?
8. Oakland Raiders (OAK vs. DEN)
9. New York Giants (NYG vs. PHI)
10. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (TB vs. DET)
For Complete Rankings Click Here
