Week 8 Coaches Corner (1 Viewer)

[Jene Bramel]

In response to the ever-growing number of folks playing in IDP leagues and the lack of response advice requests get in the Assistant Coach Forum, we're opening a separate IDP advice thread here.

Questions seeking advice about starting lineup decisions, waiver pickups, and trades should go in this thread.

You'll get better responses if you include your league's scoring system and other pertinent information -- roster size, starter requirements, redraft/dynasty/keeper league, etc. You'll get more responses and we'll have better discussion if you "show your work" -- who you think you should start or pickup and why. Word of caution: IDP vets like to see that the newbies are willing to do their homework and apply what they've learned. You'll get more detailed responses from multiple sources if you aren't looking to be "spoon-fed" a decision. Many of those kinds of questions can be answered by Norton's weekly cheatsheets and rankings. This thread should be more give and take.

We'll turn this thread over every week to keep it from getting too difficult to use. Please search the thread briefly before posting a new question -- you may find that we've already discussed a situation similar to yours.

Finally, advice about many general IDP topics can be found in the pinned FAQ thread. If you don't find what you need there, post a new topic in the Forum.

 

[BearsFan]

Dynasty Contract League (16 teams)

Must start 2 DLs/LBs/DBs weekly

Scoring format: T=1, A=0.5, Sack=2, Int=2, FF=2, FR=2, PD=1

Current DBs:

T.McGee BUF CB

D.Williams DEN CB

C.Chavous STL SS

M.Huff OAK SS

M.Boulware SEA SS just came available. He's currently ranked #9 in the 10/23 FBG DB Dynasty Rankings, but is performance this year seems less than stellar.

What's the view of his long-term value and which, if any, of my 4 DBs would you replace with him?

Thanks in advance!

 

[Jene Bramel]

Dynasty Contract League (16 teams)Must start 2 DLs/LBs/DBs weeklyScoring format: T=1, A=0.5, Sack=2, Int=2, FF=2, FR=2, PD=1Current DBs:T.McGee BUF CBD.Williams DEN CBC.Chavous STL SSM.Huff OAK SSM.Boulware SEA SS just came available. He's currently ranked #9 in the 10/23 FBG DB Dynasty Rankings, but is performance this year seems less than stellar.What's the view of his long-term value and which, if any, of my 4 DBs would you replace with him?Thanks in advance!

I've never been a big Boulware fan. He's had two and a half seasons to prove himself a capable IDP option and has barely approached replacement level stats. But he's running around mid-20s in my leagues right now, primarily on the basis of career high coverage stats (on pace for 5-6 INT and 15-16 PD). He's a better long-term option than Chavous, but that's not necessarily saying much. The Seattle LBs are solid and Hamlin is playing better next to him so he has a lot of competition for tackles. You're unlikely to get the tackle stats Chavous is currently giving you, so if you're starting Chavous every week you'll have to weigh Boulware's future value against Chavous' current value.

 

[varmint cong]

I'm interested in picking up A. Archuletta as a DB, but am a bit skeptical with the skins adding troy vincent, How do you see this playing out?

 

[bradf35]

Hey,

We are allowed 1 pickup per week in my IDP league. I'm not sure if i should pickup a LB/DL or a DB and need a little advice. We start any combination of 6 LB or DL and then 2 DB. Our scoring system is as follows: 10 pts per Sack/FF/INT/TD, 5 pts. per FR, 1 pt per tackle/assist.

My team

DL

Julius Peppers

Jason Taylor

Aaron Schobel

Charles Grant

Tommie Harris

LB

Will Witherspoon

Teddy Brushci

Daryl Smith

Shaun Phillips

Clark Haagans

Kawika Mitchell

DB

Chris Gamble

Dunta Robinson

Nate Clements

LB's available: Chris Draft, Channing Crowder and Ernie Sims

DB's available: Charles Woodson, Greg Wesley and Adam Archuleta

I was going to pickup Charles Woodson because my DB's are horrible, but with the injury to Shaun Philips i've been leaning towards Chris Draft. Please let me know what you think. Thanks.

Brad

 

[jpeace121]

Thanks, as always, to Jean, CC and everyone else for the help in this thread. My league: redraft, start 2 DL, 2 LB, 2 DB. Points: Tackles are 1, assists 0.5, sacks 2, half sacks 1, FF and FR 1.5 each, Pass Defended .5 each.

My IDP Roster:

DL: Cole

J. Smith

S. Phillips

LB: Bulluck

Ryans

Sims

DB:McGee

Rhodes

Wilson

I have to drop Phillips due to his injury, and I have to pick up another DB to help with week 9 byes for Wilson and Rhodes.

Top available DLs:

K. Williams, MIN

K. Gregg, BAL

D. Burgess, OAK

T. Suggs, BAL

L. Castillo, SD

I'm thinking maybe Castillo, since he has more work to do due to injuries.

Top available DBs:

Woodson, GB

Hamlin, SEA

D. Williams, DEN

I'm thinking Hamlin.

Trades aren't really an option, this league just doesn't trade. I'm also considering dropping Sims for Fujita due to injury concerns and Fujita playing well lately. Thoughts on all of this would be appreciated. Thanks.

 

[Jene Bramel]

I'm interested in picking up A. Archuletta as a DB, but am a bit skeptical with the skins adding troy vincent, How do you see this playing out?

Who knows anymore with the Redskins. Reports are that Vincent began rotating with Archuleta in the second quarter of the Colt game. Maybe it was a coverage vs run support thing, but the note I read suggested it was an even series-for-series rotation. It's hard to think that a team would bench a solid safety like Archuleta they paid big money to acquire for a veteran with less speed and physical presence, but again, this is the Redskins.I think you have to downgrade Archuleta for now until the "rotation" becomes more clear.

 

[Jene Bramel]

Hey, We are allowed 1 pickup per week in my IDP league. I'm not sure if i should pickup a LB/DL or a DB and need a little advice. We start any combination of 6 LB or DL and then 2 DB. Our scoring system is as follows: 10 pts per Sack/FF/INT/TD, 5 pts. per FR, 1 pt per tackle/assist. My teamDLJulius PeppersJason TaylorAaron SchobelCharles GrantTommie HarrisLBWill WitherspoonTeddy BrushciDaryl Smith Shaun PhillipsClark HaagansKawika MitchellDBChris GambleDunta RobinsonNate ClementsLB's available: Chris Draft, Channing Crowder and Ernie SimsDB's available: Charles Woodson, Greg Wesley and Adam ArchuletaI was going to pickup Charles Woodson because my DB's are horrible, but with the injury to Shaun Philips i've been leaning towards Chris Draft. Please let me know what you think. Thanks.Brad

I agree Draft and Robinson are the best of your listed options. You probably have enough horses at DL/LB even with Taylor, Schobel, and Phillips out this week. Woodson has a pretty juicy matchup home against Arizona. I don't know that I'd trust Robinson against the Titans; it doesn't look like they want VY throwing all that much. You may want Woodson next week against Buffalo with Gamble out on bye as well.

 

[Chaos Commish]

I'm interested in picking up A. Archuletta as a DB, but am a bit skeptical with the skins adding troy vincent, How do you see this playing out?

I'm benching Archuleta until this clears up. I agree with Jene, Washington is confusing (mismanaged). With all the DBs out there, I would look elsewhere.

 

[Jene Bramel]

My league: redraft, start 2 DL, 2 LB, 2 DB. Points: Tackles are 1, assists 0.5, sacks 2, half sacks 1, FF and FR 1.5 each, Pass Defended .5 each.

My IDP Roster:

DL: Cole

J. Smith

S. Phillips

LB: Bulluck

Ryans

Sims

DB:McGee

Rhodes

Wilson

I have to drop Phillips due to his injury, and I have to pick up another DB to help with week 9 byes for Wilson and Rhodes.

Top available DLs:

K. Williams, MIN

K. Gregg, BAL

D. Burgess, OAK

T. Suggs, BAL

L. Castillo, SD

I'm thinking maybe Castillo, since he has more work to do due to injuries.

With your scoring system a little tackle-heavy, I don't like the matchups of Burgess or Suggs enough to test either's inconsistency or injury issues. I don't know that Castillo is a better bet because of the injury issue. I think I'd go with Williams on MNF. He's been just as good, if not better, in the tackle column than Castillo and he'll either get to see a lot of Dillon/Maroney up the middle if behind or get the benefit of all the middle linebacker blitzes the Vikes have been doing to keep the double team off of him on passing downs if they're ahead. I don't think Castillo is a bad play this week, but I think I'd go with Williams.

Top available DBs:

Woodson, GB

Hamlin, SEA

D. Williams, DEN

I'm thinking Hamlin.

I think so, too. Although Darrent Williams sure has a nice matchup against the Colts as you can expect the Broncos to play a lot of Cover-2 against them. Hamlin's matchup against the Chiefs is probably too good to ignore, though.

Trades aren't really an option, this league just doesn't trade. I'm also considering dropping Sims for Fujita due to injury concerns and Fujita playing well lately. Thoughts on all of this would be appreciated. Thanks.

Did I miss another ding for Sims this weekend? Sims is racking up tackles right now with Cody and Rogers out -- I'd ride him until he's broken.

 

[Chaos Commish]

I was going to pickup Charles Woodson because my DB's are horrible, but with the injury to Shaun Philips i've been leaning towards Chris Draft. Please let me know what you think. Thanks.Brad

I agree with Jene's suggestions, but it would be nice to find some stability at DB on this team, or get the rest of the roster to the point where your weekly move could be a juicy DB matchup. I'm surprised to be saying this, but Woodson may be the stability you seek. Making a call between Robinson, Gamble and Clements is hard for me (surprised it was so easy for Jene), but these are the type you want to play best matchup. You carry 11 DLs and LBs and start 6. I would cut back, maybe via trade for a solid DB, more likely just to make room for a deeper lineup of DBs to end the season with. One roster move a week means you have to plan this now. Maybe make a chart of the DBs you'd consider in a row and their schedules in columns. Research SoS for matchups and a combination just might jump out at you. Or just post the basics and I'm sure some of us would look it over for matchups and combinations. Isn't this fun?

 

[Chaos Commish]

Top available DLs:

K. Williams, MIN

D. Burgess, OAK

I'm thinking maybe Castillo, since he has more work to do due to injuries.

With your scoring system a little tackle-heavy, I don't like the matchups of Burgess or Suggs enough to test either's inconsistency or injury issues. I don't know that Castillo is a better bet because of the injury issue. I think I'd go with Williams on MNF.

Top available DBs:

Woodson, GB

Hamlin, SEA

D. Williams, DEN

I'm thinking Hamlin.

I think so, too. Although Darrent Williams sure has a nice matchup against the Colts.

I'm also considering dropping Sims for Fujita due to injury concerns and Fujita playing well lately.

Did I miss another ding for Sims this weekend? Sims is racking up tackles right now with Cody and Rogers out -- I'd ride him until he's broken.

DL - A bunch is being made of the Cards not double teaming Burgess this past weekend, but Burgess is way past the situational pass rusher he used to be. He looked unstoppable zone blitzing, stunting, power rushing and holding the edge against the run, also very solid in pass coverage. He was a big part of what confused AZ. I think his tackle numbers will be on the rise going forward, and I prefer him in this conservative scoring despiote that being a change of "type" for him. He is Shaun Phillips-esque going forward, imo. Williams may provide better consistency, but DLs by nature are inconsistent, and I want the bigger scorer. It could be Williams, but I think something clicked in Oakland this week and Burgess' role has been expanded. DB - Hamlin is a must. You may like him better than Rhodes down the stretch.

Agree with Jene again on Sims.

 

[Warhogs]

I'm pretty new at IDP too. I have bye week issues at DB this week and just added C.C. Brown. I thought his matchup against the Titans should be a nice matchup. Can anyone tell me about this guy and what is your outlook on him for this week and the rest of the season? There are some higher scoring CB available too but he is one of the few S available and I honestly know nothing about him.

 

[Jene Bramel]

I'm pretty new at IDP too. I have bye week issues at DB this week and just added C.C. Brown. I thought his matchup against the Titans should be a nice matchup. Can anyone tell me about this guy and what is your outlook on him for this week and the rest of the season? There are some higher scoring CB available too but he is one of the few S available and I honestly know nothing about him.

He's a replacement level NFL talent who has the benefit of playing on a pretty poor defense against the run alongside another so-so NFL talent in Glenn Earl. He was in and out of the lineup last season, but seems established enough in 2006 to trust for the rest of the season.Matchup against Tennessee isn't as favorable as it looks. Last game against Washington was the only time a safety had made more than five tackles against. Of course, the Texan safeties are likely to be a better than average play with any matchup. Still, depending on your scoring system, you may want to consider a corner instead.

 

[bradf35]

I was going to pickup Charles Woodson because my DB's are horrible, but with the injury to Shaun Philips i've been leaning towards Chris Draft. Please let me know what you think. Thanks.Brad

I agree with Jene's suggestions, but it would be nice to find some stability at DB on this team, or get the rest of the roster to the point where your weekly move could be a juicy DB matchup. I'm surprised to be saying this, but Woodson may be the stability you seek. Making a call between Robinson, Gamble and Clements is hard for me (surprised it was so easy for Jene), but these are the type you want to play best matchup. You carry 11 DLs and LBs and start 6. I would cut back, maybe via trade for a solid DB, more likely just to make room for a deeper lineup of DBs to end the season with. One roster move a week means you have to plan this now. Maybe make a chart of the DBs you'd consider in a row and their schedules in columns. Research SoS for matchups and a combination just might jump out at you. Or just post the basics and I'm sure some of us would look it over for matchups and combinations. Isn't this fun?

My offense looks like this:QB Philip Rivers, Ben Roethlisberger, Charlie Frye, Jake PlummerRB Tiki Barber, Brian Westbrook, Willis McGahee, Corey Dillon, MaroneyWR Reggie Brown, Chad Johnson, Donald Driver, Chris Chambers, Matt JonesWould it be worth trading someone like Donald Driver or maybe even Dillon or Maroney for someone like Polamalu? The guy with Adrian Wilson is very week on offense so i could also try to make a deal for him. Also, which DL/LB's would you consider trading? Thanks for the help!Brad

 

[Grimmett]

Nice addition to the IDP Forum guys. Congrats.

 

[Jene Bramel]

My offense looks like this:QB Philip Rivers, Ben Roethlisberger, Charlie Frye, Jake PlummerRB Tiki Barber, Brian Westbrook, Willis McGahee, Corey Dillon, MaroneyWR Reggie Brown, Chad Johnson, Donald Driver, Chris Chambers, Matt JonesWould it be worth trading someone like Donald Driver or maybe even Dillon or Maroney for someone like Polamalu? The guy with Adrian Wilson is very week on offense so i could also try to make a deal for him. Also, which DL/LB's would you consider trading? Thanks for the help!Brad

I don't think I'd move any of those DL. Your scoring system is so big play heavy that there may be some weeks where you want all five in your lineup if the matchups are right. Potential 26 pts per sack/FF/FR is a huge risk reward situation.Polamalu is about as big play as they come at DB so he's an excellent target. If you can get him for Maroney (assuming this is a redraft league) then you probably roll the dice that Dillon doesn't get hurt. I may move Dillon for him too. Which one you trade is dependent on whether you want Dillon's consistency but injury risk or Maroney's poor current carry totals but huge upside if Dillon is injured. I don't know that I'd risk Driver (Jones hamstring too big a concern) unless you start only 2 WR.

 

[bradf35]

My offense looks like this:QB Philip Rivers, Ben Roethlisberger, Charlie Frye, Jake PlummerRB Tiki Barber, Brian Westbrook, Willis McGahee, Corey Dillon, MaroneyWR Reggie Brown, Chad Johnson, Donald Driver, Chris Chambers, Matt JonesWould it be worth trading someone like Donald Driver or maybe even Dillon or Maroney for someone like Polamalu? The guy with Adrian Wilson is very week on offense so i could also try to make a deal for him. Also, which DL/LB's would you consider trading? Thanks for the help!Brad

I don't think I'd move any of those DL. Your scoring system is so big play heavy that there may be some weeks where you want all five in your lineup if the matchups are right. Potential 26 pts per sack/FF/FR is a huge risk reward situation.Polamalu is about as big play as they come at DB so he's an excellent target. If you can get him for Maroney (assuming this is a redraft league) then you probably roll the dice that Dillon doesn't get hurt. I may move Dillon for him too. Which one you trade is dependent on whether you want Dillon's consistency but injury risk or Maroney's poor current carry totals but huge upside if Dillon is injured. I don't know that I'd risk Driver (Jones hamstring too big a concern) unless you start only 2 WR.

Sorry, i should've explained our starting requirments too. We start 2 RB, 2 WR, and 1 Flex (RB/WR/TE). It is also a redraft league. I think that I am going to offer Dillon and Maroney for Polamalu and Warrick Dunn. Dunn will be a nice RB4. Thanks for the Help!Brad

 

[Warhogs]

I'm pretty new at IDP too. I have bye week issues at DB this week and just added C.C. Brown. I thought his matchup against the Titans should be a nice matchup. Can anyone tell me about this guy and what is your outlook on him for this week and the rest of the season? There are some higher scoring CB available too but he is one of the few S available and I honestly know nothing about him.

He's a replacement level NFL talent who has the benefit of playing on a pretty poor defense against the run alongside another so-so NFL talent in Glenn Earl. He was in and out of the lineup last season, but seems established enough in 2006 to trust for the rest of the season.Matchup against Tennessee isn't as favorable as it looks. Last game against Washington was the only time a safety had made more than five tackles against. Of course, the Texan safeties are likely to be a better than average play with any matchup. Still, depending on your scoring system, you may want to consider a corner instead.

I went with Ken Hamlin instead. Thanks for the input.

 

[littletank]

Is Ernie Sims droppable?

I have G. Hayes, E. Barton, D. Ryans, E. Sims and A. Pierce.

I start 4 of 5 but E. Sims has a bye so all others are started.

I need to drop someone for T. McGee's bye(We count kick returns so he's the #1 db so I can't drop him)

My only other guys possible to drop are E. Sims, W. Lundy, M. Barber, D. Williams. My other RBs are (start 3) Caddy, C. taylor, R. Brown, Gore

I was thinking either dropping Sims, Lundy or Barber. Lundy could become the #1 back where as I don't think Barber will although Barber has better chance of being consistant scorer.

There are other LB's on waiver if Sims does get picked up like Daryl Smith, EJ Henderson, Marcus Washington. So does it make sense just to drop Sims.

 

[Jene Bramel]

Is Ernie Sims droppable?I have G. Hayes, E. Barton, D. Ryans, E. Sims and A. Pierce.I start 4 of 5 but E. Sims has a bye so all others are started.I need to drop someone for T. McGee's bye(We count kick returns so he's the #1 db so I can't drop him)My only other guys possible to drop are E. Sims, W. Lundy, M. Barber, D. Williams. My other RBs are (start 3) Caddy, C. taylor, R. Brown, GoreI was thinking either dropping Sims, Lundy or Barber. Lundy could become the #1 back where as I don't think Barber will although Barber has better chance of being consistant scorer.There are other LB's on waiver if Sims does get picked up like Daryl Smith, EJ Henderson, Marcus Washington. So does it make sense just to drop Sims.

I think I drop either Sims or drop/trade DeAngelo Williams (unless it's a keeper league). Lundy looks like he'll have a shot at the primary RB gig in Houston for the rest of the season and Barber may begin getting more carries. Williams is still recovering from injury and is probably at the bottom of your chart right now. Looks like you've got other options at LB, though, so it may be safer to just drop Sims. Also, I might move on Daryl Smith now. He had a great debut against the Texans this week and he may be a better option than Barton or Pierce moving forward. Barton's matchup isn't very good (CLE) this week; I'd probably flip Barton for Smith this week regardless of your other move.

 

[littletank]

Looks like you've got other options at LB, though, so it may be safer to just drop Sims. Also, I might move on Daryl Smith now. He had a great debut against the Texans this week and he may be a better option than Barton or Pierce moving forward. Barton's matchup isn't very good (CLE) this week; I'd probably flip Barton for Smith this week regardless of your other move.

Thanks for your help. I read your mind. I dropped Barton for Smith prior to reading your reply.

 

[Jene Bramel]

Looks like you've got other options at LB, though, so it may be safer to just drop Sims. Also, I might move on Daryl Smith now. He had a great debut against the Texans this week and he may be a better option than Barton or Pierce moving forward. Barton's matchup isn't very good (CLE) this week; I'd probably flip Barton for Smith this week regardless of your other move.

Thanks for your help. I read your mind. I dropped Barton for Smith prior to reading your reply.

, grasshopper.

 

[FFdork]

Due to some injuries, I need some help at LB. Luckily, both Brandon Short and Ahmad Brooks are available. This is a dynasty league, so long term prospects are important, but I mostly need a fill-in starter for this year due to some season-ending injuries. Any thoughts? I'm leaning towards Brooks since tackles are most important and he's a MLB.

 

[Jene Bramel]

Due to some injuries, I need some help at LB. Luckily, both Brandon Short and Ahmad Brooks are available. This is a dynasty league, so long term prospects are important, but I mostly need a fill-in starter for this year due to some season-ending injuries. Any thoughts? I'm leaning towards Brooks since tackles are most important and he's a MLB.

I'm going to be partial to Brooks as well given the dynasty angle. Short may end up being the better fill-in player if Brooks ends up a situational player when Brian Simmons and Rashad Jeanty are fully healthy, but that looks less likely with each passing week.The upside with Brooks is too high to pass IMO.

 

[bonscott]

How's Greg Wesley shaping up? He used to be a stud but has been quiet but steady this year. Is he looking like he'll get back to his former glory or no?

I can drop Ryan Clark to pick him up. Which of the two might be a better choice the rest of the season as a #4 DB starter.

3.5 pts per tackle average

1 pt per assist

2 pt per PD

10 pt per big play

 

[go corn]

3 questions this week:

1) I need to pick up a DB (scoring/settings in signature below)... here are the top DB's on wire:

D. Bullocks

C. Gamble

M. Adams

D. Whitner

R. Clark

O. Atogwe

G. Wesley

A. Bethea

Re. Hill

W. Demps

F. Brown

D. Manning

B. Sanders

I tend to lean toward tacklers/safeties, even though my league has high reward for INT's, so my initial thoughts are to add Bullocks, Whitner, or Clark, in that order of preference. What do you think? With Doss out, does an INDI safety look more attractive?

2) What 4 LB's do you start this week?

Do. Edwards vs STL

A. Davis vs NYJ

Da. Smith @ PHI

B. Urlacher vs SF

K. Dansby (Doubtful) @ GB

L. Marshall (Bye)

E. Henderson vs NE

B. Short vs TB

T. Davis (Questionable) vs DAL

3) If you absolutely had to drop one of the above LB's, who would it be?

Thanks, as always -- I'm 6-1 so far and the feedback I've received on this board has contributed greatly to my success!

Cheers!

 

[The Man With No Name]

How's Greg Wesley shaping up? He used to be a stud but has been quiet but steady this year. Is he looking like he'll get back to his former glory or no?I can drop Ryan Clark to pick him up. Which of the two might be a better choice the rest of the season as a #4 DB starter.3.5 pts per tackle average1 pt per assist2 pt per PD 10 pt per big play

I really like Wesley with his upcoming schedule against some qb's that throw a lot of interceptions. This week-Seattle with Seneca Wallace, week 10- Miami with whomever, week 11- Oakland with whomever, week 12- Denver with Plummer, week 13-Cleveland with Charlie Frye, then Baltimore, San Diego, Oakland again, and Jacksonville (week 17)

 

[Jene Bramel]

How's Greg Wesley shaping up? He used to be a stud but has been quiet but steady this year. Is he looking like he'll get back to his former glory or no?I can drop Ryan Clark to pick him up. Which of the two might be a better choice the rest of the season as a #4 DB starter.3.5 pts per tackle average1 pt per assist2 pt per PD 10 pt per big play

I like Wesley. He looks more comfortable this past couple of weeks and has always been a decent big play/coverage option. With Polamalu back at full strength, Clark isn't likely to be a very consistent player.

 

[Jene Bramel]

3 questions this week:1) I need to pick up a DB (scoring/settings in signature below)... here are the top DB's on wire:

C. Gamble

O. Atogwe

I tend to lean toward tacklers/safeties, even though my league has high reward for INT's, so my initial thoughts are to add Bullocks, Whitner, or Clark, in that order of preference. What do you think? With Doss out, does an INDI safety look more attractive?

Bullocks and Whitner have byes this week, so I pass; although Whitner may be the best long-term option on the list provided, your waiver list is plenty deep enough here to play matchups. This week, Gamble and Atogwe have the best matchups. You may also want to consider Jordan Babineaux against the Chiefs this week and as a long-term pickup since he's taken over the SS gig in Seattle.

If you get big points for picks and reasonable points for PD, I might roll the dice on Gamble this week. Romo is mistake prone and the Panthers/Cowboys DL/OL matchup is heavily in Carolina's favor. Otherwise, I take Babineaux for a spin. If he explodes, he's past his bye week and a good get for the rest of the season.

2) What 4 LB's do you start this week?

Do. Edwards vs STL

Da. Smith @ PHI

B. Urlacher vs SF

E. Henderson vs NE

B. Short vs TB

It's between these five for me. Although the Patriots are a solid matchup, I think I bench Henderson. There's been a disturbing pattern during Minnesota's home games -- stat crews awarding tackles to the wrong player, being more stingy with assists and PD with the home team. That's probably over-analyzing a bit, but I think the other players and matchups are solid enough to sit Henderson and wait until that trend disappears.

3) If you absolutely had to drop one of the above LB's, who would it be?

Although I pegged Smith as a starter above this week, he's in the discussion here with Lemar Marshall. Neither bring much big play ability to the table right now. If it's this week, I'd probably boot Marshall; Smith's matchup is too good to pass up this week. If you're in a tackle heavy league, then you probably have to consider releasing Dansby -- the extent of his hip injury is unclear and his tackle stats will be a little inconsistent on the strong side.

Thanks, as always -- I'm 6-1 so far and the feedback I've received on this board has contributed greatly to my success!

Cheers!

 

[rupricht]

My league's scoring... We only start 3 defensive players each week with the following scoring...1pt tackle 1/2pt assist. 4pts for ints, sacks, 3pts fumble, fumble recovery, 1pt pass defended.

My team -

Keith Bullock

L.Tatupu

Bart Scott(just got him in a trade)

D. Johnson

On the wire:

G. Wilson

Ahmad Brooks

I'm thinking about starting Bullock, Tatupu & Scott but am having second thought about Tatupu - he has been disappointing.....any suggestions?>

Thanks for the great advice, especially Jene & Chaos.

 

[Jene Bramel]

My league's scoring... We only start 3 defensive players each week with the following scoring...1pt tackle 1/2pt assist. 4pts for ints, sacks, 3pts fumble, fumble recovery, 1pt pass defended.My team - Keith BullockL.TatupuBart Scott(just got him in a trade)D. JohnsonOn the wire:G. WilsonAhmad BrooksI'm thinking about starting Bullock, Tatupu & Scott but am having second thought about Tatupu - he has been disappointing.....any suggestions?>Thanks for the great advice, especially Jene & Chaos.

I'm not sure about Scott this week. The Saints are protecting Drew Brees extremely well and with the exception of the SD game, Scott's tackle numbers haven't been above LB3 level. Bulluck (HOU, surprising but true) and Tatupu (KC) both have solid matchups. Derrick Johnson may get a shot at making a big play against an inexperienced QB and if the Chiefs get ahead they may turn him loose as they did against SF a few weeks ago. I think I'd start him over Scott.Brooks is an interesting option, but there's more risk with him right now than your current four players.

 

[Dangrel]

Hey there its the "sacker" guy again

looks like picking up Phillips was an unforeseen bad idea...lol I need to pickup 2 new sackers this week.....one obviously for philips and one for abraham

I'm suppose to start 3 sackers every week....unfortunately I only have strahan playing this week my other sacker is schobel who is on a bye.......i need to pick up one more sacker to start and keep one of my reserves

last week you told me to pick up Little this week........still a good idea?.......I checked out the rest of KC's schedule and Jared Allen has it pretty easy going....only 3 teams that KC plays has allowed less then 20 sacks this season..........but you would know more then I would with these guys.

these are the guys still available.

Aaron Kampman

Mark Anderson<-----any thoughts with this rookie?............you think he could get more playing time...once Chicago gets that playoff birth?

Elvis Dumervil<-----any thoughts on this rookie?

Darwin Walker

James Hall

Leonard Little

Jared Allen

Bertrand Berry<------does he look like his old self again. or is Oakland that bad?

Kevin Williams

Patrick Kerney

Will Smith

as you recall this pool is messed up in...as the players I pick up this week...must sit on the bench and cant be used till the following week....so I'm looking to run with whomever the rest of the season

what about Trent cole?........I think I could make a possible Trade for him.....that really wont effect me to much.....you think hes more so a solid player then ones that are listed above.

thanks for your help in advance

 

[ConstruxBoy]

Zealots League, 2 questions:

Need 3 of the following LBs:

Bradie James

Bart Scott

David Thornton

Mike Vrable

Thinking of leaving James out. Opinions?

Also, is it a bad thing to start 2 DBs from the same team? I'm not quite as down on Romo as others, but I'm already starting Shaun Williams, so should I still start Ken Lucas as well? Or go with Walt Harris?

TIA

 

[Jene Bramel]

Hey there its the "sacker" guy againlooks like picking up Phillips was an unforeseen bad idea...lol I need to pickup 2 new sackers this week.....one obviously for philips and one for abrahamI'm suppose to start 3 sackers every week....unfortunately I only have strahan playing this week my other sacker is schobel who is on a bye.......i need to pick up one more sacker to start and keep one of my reserveslast week you told me to pick up Little this week........still a good idea?.......I checked out the rest of KC's schedule and Jared Allen has it pretty easy going....only 3 teams that KC plays has allowed less then 20 sacks this season..........but you would know more then I would with these guys.these are the guys still available.Aaron KampmanMark Anderson<-----any thoughts with this rookie?............you think he could get more playing time...once Chicago gets that playoff birth?Elvis Dumervil<-----any thoughts on this rookie?Darwin WalkerJames HallLeonard LittleJared AllenBertrand Berry<------does he look like his old self again. or is Oakland that bad?Kevin WilliamsPatrick KerneyWill Smithas you recall this pool is messed up in...as the players I pick up this week...must sit on the bench and cant be used till the following week....so I'm looking to run with whomever the rest of the seasonwhat about Trent cole?........I think I could make a possible Trade for him.....that really wont effect me to much.....you think hes more so a solid player then ones that are listed above.thanks for your help in advance

Tough call on Phillips. I agree that you'll probably have to release him, can't take the chance that he doesn't play in Week 9. Unfortunately, you aren't able to play matchups in this league, so I'd take the best players at this point and roll with them. There are so many injuries on the line this time of year that affect matchups that it's not worth projecting matchups three and four weeks in advance.I like Jared Allen and Leonard Little the best although James Hall, Will Smith, Bert Berry, and Aaron Kampman are in this discussion. You could cycle an extra player in for Schobel since he's on his bye anyway (probably Hall IMO), but Schobel's upcoming matchups are pretty good. Anderson is too risky as a situational player and Dumervil, while impressive, has faced inferior competition that didn't roll protection his way as a situational pass rusher.I think I'd pickup up Little and Allen and hold Schobel.Good luck.

 

[Jene Bramel]

Zealots League, 2 questions:Need 3 of the following LBs:Bradie JamesBart ScottDavid ThorntonMike VrableThinking of leaving James out. Opinions?Also, is it a bad thing to start 2 DBs from the same team? I'm not quite as down on Romo as others, but I'm already starting Shaun Williams, so should I still start Ken Lucas as well? Or go with Walt Harris?TIA

The Bears haven't given up many points to corners at home this year; Rex doesn't make as many mistakes when he's frontrunning. I really like the Carolina corner matchup -- if Lucas is healthy, I'd probably start him and hope he makes it through the game. If there's any question after today's practice though I wouldn't risk him. Harris sounds like he's healthy enough to play out of the bye.I'm not sure what to tell you at LB. I don't really like any of those matchups. Carolina's actually been a decent matchup for LBs (Davis and DQJ were 12-3 against them out of a 3-4 front in a relatively close game). I could make an argument to bench each of them here, although I think Thornton is the must start out of the group. I think I'd bench either James or Vrabel, whichever would give you less of an ulcer. If you hear before gametime that the Pats will play a lot of 4-3, then I'd clearly start Vrabel.Sorry CB, maybe CC or somebody else can give you a better answer.

 

[ConstruxBoy]

Zealots League, 2 questions:Need 3 of the following LBs:Bradie JamesBart ScottDavid ThorntonMike VrableThinking of leaving James out. Opinions?Also, is it a bad thing to start 2 DBs from the same team? I'm not quite as down on Romo as others, but I'm already starting Shaun Williams, so should I still start Ken Lucas as well? Or go with Walt Harris?TIA

The Bears haven't given up many points to corners at home this year; Rex doesn't make as many mistakes when he's frontrunning. I really like the Carolina corner matchup -- if Lucas is healthy, I'd probably start him and hope he makes it through the game. If there's any question after today's practice though I wouldn't risk him. Harris sounds like he's healthy enough to play out of the bye.I'm not sure what to tell you at LB. I don't really like any of those matchups. Carolina's actually been a decent matchup for LBs (Davis and DQJ were 12-3 against them out of a 3-4 front in a relatively close game). I could make an argument to bench each of them here, although I think Thornton is the must start out of the group. I think I'd bench either James or Vrabel, whichever would give you less of an ulcer. If you hear before gametime that the Pats will play a lot of 4-3, then I'd clearly start Vrabel.Sorry CB, maybe CC or somebody else can give you a better answer.

No problem Jene, that's great! And I'm playing Rudnicki this week, so I imagine everyone will want to chime in with their opinion on my best lineup choice.

 

[Rod Farva]

Hello...I'm thinking about trying to deal Boss Bailey for Lemar Marshall. Specs for defenders are as follows:

Solo Tackles: 1 pt
FF/FR: 2 pts
Sack: 3 pts
PD: 1 pt
Def TD: 6 ptsThink I should try it or is Bailey more valuable now and I shouldn't give him up for Marshall?

Thank you!

 

[spec1alk]

need 3 of these 4 LBs:

urlacher

witherspoon

ryans

hayes

need 3 of these DBs

polamalu

g wilson

m boulware

k rhodes

g earl

d manning

 

[Jene Bramel]

Hello...I'm thinking about a Boss Bailey for Lemar Marshall deal. Specs for defenders are as follows:

Solo Tackles: 1 pt
FF/FR: 2 pts
Sack: 3 pts
PD: 1 pt
Def TD: 6 ptsThink I should try it or is Bailey more valuable now?

Thank you!

I don't see much difference between these two players the rest of the season now that Bailey is entrenched as the MLB in Detroit. Bailey is more likely to be injured; Marshall is the one currently injured.Dealer's choice.

 

[Jene Bramel]

need 3 of these 4 LBs:

urlacher

witherspoon

ryans

hayes -- Hayes could buck the trend but the Packers have been a poor matchup for opposing MLBs

need 3 of these DBs

polamalu

g wilson

m boulware -- not starting anymore

k rhodes

g earl -- still questionable with a neck injury -- go with the studs

d manning

Good luck.

 

[spec1alk]

need 3 of these 4 LBs:

urlacher

witherspoon

ryans

hayes -- Hayes could buck the trend but the Packers have been a poor matchup for opposing MLBs

need 3 of these DBs

polamalu

g wilson

m boulware -- not starting anymore

k rhodes

g earl -- still questionable with a neck injury -- go with the studs

d manning

Good luck.

if boulware isnt starting anymore, who replaced him? Who should I look for on the WW. This is a dynasty, is there good reason to hold onto boulware?

 

[skinnys]

need 3 of these 4 LBs:

urlacher

witherspoon

ryans

hayes -- Hayes could buck the trend but the Packers have been a poor matchup for opposing MLBs

need 3 of these DBs

polamalu

g wilson

m boulware -- not starting anymore

k rhodes

g earl -- still questionable with a neck injury -- go with the studs

d manning

Good luck.

if boulware isnt starting anymore, who replaced him? Who should I look for on the WW. This is a dynasty, is there good reason to hold onto boulware?

FBG depth charts show Jordan Babineaux... Is he worth a pickup in deep Dynasty leagues?

 

[Jene Bramel]

need 3 of these 4 LBs:

urlacher

witherspoon

ryans

hayes -- Hayes could buck the trend but the Packers have been a poor matchup for opposing MLBs

need 3 of these DBs

polamalu

g wilson

m boulware -- not starting anymore

k rhodes

g earl -- still questionable with a neck injury -- go with the studs

d manning

Good luck.

if boulware isnt starting anymore, who replaced him? Who should I look for on the WW. This is a dynasty, is there good reason to hold onto boulware?

FBG depth charts show Jordan Babineaux... Is he worth a pickup in deep Dynasty leagues?

This is correct. Babineaux is worth picking up in all leagues -- Boulware was putting up top 20 numbers in standard leagues and with the Seattle offense likely to struggle a bit, Babineaux should produce similar stats. I'd probably hold onto to Boulware for a bit -- Holmgren hasn't said that the move is permanent and Babineaux isn't a true SS.

 

[JayMan]

Simple question...

Need to start 3 out of these 4... points rewarded for Sacks only...

(player - opponent... sacks/gm... oppOL sacks/gm)

CGrant vs BAL... 3/6 - 19/6

PKerney @ CIN... 4/6 - 15/6

JSmith vs ATL... 6/6 - 15/6

AOgunleye vs SF... 1.5/4 - 13/6

Ogunleye has a favorable matchup against the 49ers... but was inactive (and had been listed as questionable) the last few weeks - he praticed full speed all week long / but will be a GTD tomorrow (see the other thread for more details)... what give?...

Thoughts...

 

[Jene Bramel]

Simple question...

Need to start 3 out of these 4... points rewarded for Sacks only...

(player - opponent... sacks/gm... oppOL sacks/gm)

CGrant vs BAL... 3/6 - 19/6

PKerney @ CIN... 4/6 - 15/6

JSmith vs ATL... 6/6 - 15/6

AOgunleye vs SF... 1.5/4 - 13/6

Ogunleye has a favorable matchup against the 49ers... but was inactive (and had been listed as questionable) the last few weeks - he praticed full speed all week long / but will be a GTD tomorrow (see the other thread for more details)... what give?...

Thoughts...

Should know whether Ogunleye's active by 1230 ET tomorrow. He's got a solid matchup at home and I'd leave him in the lineup over Kerney. Bengal OL played much better last week at game's end, including their rookie LT and Palmer seemed much more willing to throw the ball away than take a sack. It sounds like Ogunleye will play but if you can't make lineup changes up to gametime and you can't afford a zero from OGun, then he sits.

 

[varmint cong]

Alright I need some line up help please

WDIS LB- bullock, ray lewis, DB hamlin, k. rhodes

.5 pts per tkl, 2 pts per sack, 3 pts per int

thanks

 

[Jene Bramel]

Alright I need some line up help pleaseWDIS LB- bullock, ray lewis, DB hamlin, k. rhodes.5 pts per tkl, 2 pts per sack, 3 pts per intthanks

I'd sit Hamlin. It's close, but Rhodes has a decent matchup for big plays this week. It may be coincidental, but he seems to produce better against teams who use the TE in the passing game frequently (NE/MIA).

 

[Jestefarean]

Couple lineup questions....would love some advice. 1pt for tckl and ast, 5 pts for FF, FR, INT, SCK, 10pts TD

DL - we start 3. Currently Im going with Victor, Jared, and Julius. I heard Ray will start over Udeze this week and I'm tempted to throw him in, but it seems he has the best matchup. Tommie is tempting, but the 9ers don't give up many sacks, neither does Minn (seemingly)

Options

Tommie Harris vs. San Francisco 49ers (Sun 1:00p)

**Victor Adeyanju @ San Diego Chargers (Sun 4:05p)

**Jared Allen vs. Seattle Seahawks (Sun 1:00p)

Ray Edwards vs. New England Patriots (Mon 8:30p) [Taxi]

Jarvis Green @ Minnesota Vikings (Mon 8:30p)

**Julius Peppers vs. Dallas Cowboys (Sun 8:15p)

LB - we start 4 - starting Boley, Hayes, DJ, and Urlacher. Thought about swapping Landon with Boley, or Manny (assuming the 9ers D will be on the field a lot) but Boley seems the right choice.

James Anderson vs. Dallas Cowboys (Sun 8:15p)

**Michael Boley @ Cincinnati Bengals (Sun 1:00p)

**Gerald Hayes @ Green Bay Packers (Sun 1:00p)

**Derrick O. Johnson (Probable) vs. Seattle Seahawks (Sun 1:00p)

Landon Johnson vs. Atlanta Falcons (Sun 1:00p)

Manny Lawson @ Chicago Bears (Sun 1:00p)

**Brian Urlacher vs. San Francisco 49ers (Sun 1:00p)

DB- we start 4 - starting Bethea, Collins, Jones, and Madieu. Thought about trying to get Earl, or Babineaux in, but Earls a bit hurt, which worries me. Babineaux is tempting with the young QB in for KC, but worried KC may play it very safe, so no oppertunities. Darrent is always solid, but never spectactular (this year)

Darrent Williams vs. Indianapolis Colts (Sun 4:15p)

Jordan Babineaux @ Kansas City Chiefs (Sun 1:00p)

**Antoine Bethea @ Denver Broncos (Sun 4:15p)

**Nick Collins vs. Arizona Cardinals (Sun 1:00p)

Glenn Earl (Questionable) @ Tennessee Titans (Sun 1:00p)

**Sean Jones vs. New York Jets (Sun 4:15p)

**Madieu Williams vs. Atlanta Falcons (Sun 1:00p)

Thanks in advance. Been a tough year so I appreciate the chance to check my work.

 

[Chaos Commish]

Couple lineup questions....would love some advice. 1pt for tckl and ast, 5 pts for FF, FR, INT, SCK, 10pts TD

DL - I sure understand the tempation to use Edwards if he's starting. I've been on aloha time, so I could have missed it, but I don't see the report in a quick search. Anyway, I start Harris over Adeyanju, personally. Yeah, Smith has only been sacked 13 times, but the interior of that line is NOT that good. Harris off a bye might be due for one of his big weeks. Just my preference here.LB - No change from me.DB - Darrent Williams is a nice play this week. Manning will attack him, and over again that proves to be a bad idea, but a good IDP play. I'd start Babineaux too. He's takig over a high scoring position, and apparently he's better at playing it. I feel a little vindicated by this, btw. I never liked Boulware as a player, and this is not a surprise. I'd sit Collins and Bethea for those two.