Week 15 IDP Waiver Pickups
Starting with DB Waiver Wire pickups:
FS Jarred Page for the Chiefs vs. San Diego
Raiders Free Safety had a big game vs. San Diego week 15
KC FS Jarrad Page (had 8-1 vs. Den last week) and gets San Diego this week
SS J. Phillips for the Bucs has been on fire since he's been on back with multiple INTs and tackle opportunities. He'll be playing hard once against division foe Atlanta.
SS Michael Lewis vs. Miami
Bryan Scott went off vs. Miami last week with 9 solos & an assist and nothing needs to be said about one of the most elite Strong Safeties (he's on my waiver wire so that's why I list him here on waiver pick-ups)
SS Pollard for KC vs. SD
A strong rivalry, SD trend all years gives up a lot of tackles to the SS and Pollard has been very solid all year.
DB Sleeper of the Week: SS Bryan Scott He has another great start vs NYJ where every SS all year has done well. Scott had 9 tackles last week. (warning: Scott only had 3 tackles last time he played the Jets so he's a boom or bust guy this week) The good news is Buffalo will probably be behind with Losman or an injured Edwards at the helm. So the Jets will be running T. Jones and doing quick passes over the middle. Lots of opportunities for Scott here.
Linebacker Pickups for Week 15:
Paris Lenon this week? At first glance against the Colts, I would say "No". However, Dhani Jones had 9 total tackles against Indy last week and the Lions defense will be on the field a lot. Lenon had his best game of the year last week with 10 total tackles a half sack and 2 forced fumbles against the Vikings. Whether it's Dominic Rhodes or Addai, every team runs on Detroit.
LB R. Jeanty vs. Washinton Redskins should do very well. He has been quietly solid for weeks now and everyone knows the Skins run the ball and despite the Skins latest losing streak, they should be good enough against Cincy not fall behind enough to desert the run game.
Akeem Jordan vs. Cleveland on MNF
This is a bit of a boom or bust play because they may blow out the Browns so badly that Cleveland will abandon the run. However, if you're like me, you love to have players in the MNF game. It makes you feel like you still have a chance if you're behind when the Sunday night games end.
P. Tinoisamoa had 9 solos vs. Arizona last week. He get's Seattle next week and is a nice option as Seattle will be able to stay in the game and run a lot against St. Louis.
Keith Brooking vs Tampa Bay he's been rolling the last couple weeks and has a great matchup against TB in week 15
Linebackers Sleeper of the week: Shanle with 7tkls 2 assist vs. Falcons & 8 tackles the week before gets run first Chicago on Thursday night
Week 15 DTs:
Nose Tackle vs. Jags last week A Adam for Chicago lead the team in tackles from NT with 6-2
DT Richard Seymour gets the Oakland this week. Did you know that Seymour has 6.5 sacks in the last 8 games he's played in. You don't get more consistent production from this position than that. And with the Raiders guaranteed to be trailing this one, Seymour will get sack opportunities in this one.
Showing posts with label 2008. Show all posts
Showing posts with label 2008. Show all posts
2008 Fantasy Football Week 14 IDP Waiver Pickups Akeem Jordan? Why Chavous? Is Takeo Spikes back? Chris Horton the new Michael Lewis?
Week 14 IDP Waiver Pickups
Starting with Sneaky DB pickups:
SS Chris Horton for the Redskins vs. Baltimore
Horton was an absolute animal vs. the Giants last week. He was in or around almost every tackle on the field. If he is available on your waiver, get him now. He will have another good game this week. He has proven himself game in and game out this year. He's averaging 13 points a game in my league. That higher than Urlacher, Joey Porter, Keith Bulluck and even the famous Michael Lewis.
SS Michael Lewis vs. NYJ
He's available on my waiver wire and will be very solid vs. the Jets between Thomas Jones and Keller, Leon Washington and Coles quick slants.
SS Pollard for KC vs. Den
This is a strong rivalry and Pollard has been quietly solid with 69 tackles on the year.
DB Sleeper of the Week: SS Chavous (STL) vs. Arizona Strong safeties have been very strong against Arizona all year and St. Louis spends a lot of time on defense. This makes Chavous a sneaky play. He had 7 tackles against Arizona last time they played and 10 tackles the following week agains NYJ.
Linebacker Pickups for Week 14:
Paris Lenon is once again useful going against Minnesota this week. He doesn't put up big numbers, but he'll be a solid anchor with a guaranteed 10 points or so. You need at least 3 strong anchors on your team so that you can take some chances with boom or bust guys in a couple of your slots.
Winborn or Woodyard for Denver? (I asked this question 2 weeks ago)
And the answer is still the same. How about both!!! This is 3 weeks in a row that both hit double digits in tackles. So who do you want going forward? The answer is still Winborn. Woodyard is filling in for DJ Williams who is expected back this week. It has recently been announced that Winborn has earned a starting roll even if Boss Bailey comes back. Nate Webster is also expected back soon and will resume his middle linebacker spot.
Akeem Jordan OLB for Philly faces the Giants this week
He has looked solid since taking over for Omar Gaither 2 weeks ago. The only thing that makes me the slightest bit leary about this call is that I thought Washington OLB Rocky McIntoch would go nuts against the Giants last week and he dropped a big ole stinker getting me only 4 points and causing me to lose this week by a half point. Ouch! (Not to worry, I already clinched a playoff spot as all of you have as well or else you wouldn't be reading a week 14 artcle.) Jordan is a solid sleeper with upside potential this week.
Linebackers Sleeper of the week: Na'il Diggs of Carolina goes up against TB. He had 9 tackles last time he played them and last week both NO OLBs has stronger games than MLB Vilma when they played the Bucs.
Week 12 DT sleeper of the Week:
Abraham for the Jets gets San Francisco this week. Somehow he's available on my wire so I apologize if he's not attainable on yours. I'll give some deep sleepers below that can hopefully get you some desperation DT pickups.
DE Antonio Smith for the Cardinals gets the Rams this week and is fresh off a 4 tackle 1/2 sack game vs. Philly. It's no secret that the Rams are horrible and they are on cruise control, just trying to finish this season in position to get a high draft pick in April. They will have to pass to stay in this game which gives the pass rushers more opportunities.
DT Richard Seymour gets the Seahawks this week. Did you know that Seymour has 6.5 sacks in the last 7 games he's played in. You don't get more consistent production from this position than that. And with the Hawks guaranteed to be trailing this one, Seymour will get sack opportunities in this one.
Starting with Sneaky DB pickups:
SS Chris Horton for the Redskins vs. Baltimore
Horton was an absolute animal vs. the Giants last week. He was in or around almost every tackle on the field. If he is available on your waiver, get him now. He will have another good game this week. He has proven himself game in and game out this year. He's averaging 13 points a game in my league. That higher than Urlacher, Joey Porter, Keith Bulluck and even the famous Michael Lewis.
SS Michael Lewis vs. NYJ
He's available on my waiver wire and will be very solid vs. the Jets between Thomas Jones and Keller, Leon Washington and Coles quick slants.
SS Pollard for KC vs. Den
This is a strong rivalry and Pollard has been quietly solid with 69 tackles on the year.
DB Sleeper of the Week: SS Chavous (STL) vs. Arizona Strong safeties have been very strong against Arizona all year and St. Louis spends a lot of time on defense. This makes Chavous a sneaky play. He had 7 tackles against Arizona last time they played and 10 tackles the following week agains NYJ.
Linebacker Pickups for Week 14:
Paris Lenon is once again useful going against Minnesota this week. He doesn't put up big numbers, but he'll be a solid anchor with a guaranteed 10 points or so. You need at least 3 strong anchors on your team so that you can take some chances with boom or bust guys in a couple of your slots.
Winborn or Woodyard for Denver? (I asked this question 2 weeks ago)
And the answer is still the same. How about both!!! This is 3 weeks in a row that both hit double digits in tackles. So who do you want going forward? The answer is still Winborn. Woodyard is filling in for DJ Williams who is expected back this week. It has recently been announced that Winborn has earned a starting roll even if Boss Bailey comes back. Nate Webster is also expected back soon and will resume his middle linebacker spot.
Akeem Jordan OLB for Philly faces the Giants this week
He has looked solid since taking over for Omar Gaither 2 weeks ago. The only thing that makes me the slightest bit leary about this call is that I thought Washington OLB Rocky McIntoch would go nuts against the Giants last week and he dropped a big ole stinker getting me only 4 points and causing me to lose this week by a half point. Ouch! (Not to worry, I already clinched a playoff spot as all of you have as well or else you wouldn't be reading a week 14 artcle.) Jordan is a solid sleeper with upside potential this week.
Linebackers Sleeper of the week: Na'il Diggs of Carolina goes up against TB. He had 9 tackles last time he played them and last week both NO OLBs has stronger games than MLB Vilma when they played the Bucs.
Week 12 DT sleeper of the Week:
Abraham for the Jets gets San Francisco this week. Somehow he's available on my wire so I apologize if he's not attainable on yours. I'll give some deep sleepers below that can hopefully get you some desperation DT pickups.
DE Antonio Smith for the Cardinals gets the Rams this week and is fresh off a 4 tackle 1/2 sack game vs. Philly. It's no secret that the Rams are horrible and they are on cruise control, just trying to finish this season in position to get a high draft pick in April. They will have to pass to stay in this game which gives the pass rushers more opportunities.
DT Richard Seymour gets the Seahawks this week. Did you know that Seymour has 6.5 sacks in the last 7 games he's played in. You don't get more consistent production from this position than that. And with the Hawks guaranteed to be trailing this one, Seymour will get sack opportunities in this one.
2008 Fantasy Football Week 13 IDP Waiver Pickups Thanksgiving Special. Who's Akeem Jordan? Is Boimen real? Is Takeo Spikes back? Where's Vilma been?
Week 13 IDP Waiver Pickups Thanksgiving Special Game by Game Edition
Go to Paris this Thanksgiving!
If there is anything that you can count on this season, it's that Detroit will be on Defense a lot and in all probability they'll be losing. This recipe always bodes well for Linebackers because once teams get ahead, they tend to turn to the run game to grind out the clock.
Thursday, they face a Tennessee team that needs to get their run game confidence and back on track. Although Ernie Sims would usually be the more likely LB in Detroit, he has been injured for over a month now and hasn't had any more than 4 solos during that stretch.
So Paris Lenon is the one you want Thursday in this game.
Seattle at Dallas
FS Ken Hamlin for Dal will be busy as Seattle plays catch up the whole game. They'll be lucky if they're not down by 30 at halftime in this one. (I probably just jinxed Romo. Sorry, Cowboys fans)
Turkey Day night game - Arizona at Philadelphia
Too hard to call, stay away from these players on the Waiver Wire
Philadelphia just got very, very embarassed and are desperate. They could be a dangerous team which makes this game difficult to predict. What will they do against Arizona? There is a ton of pressure on McNabb, on Reid, and people are losing their jobs like Omar Gaither. Akeem Jordan had a nice game in his place against Baltimore, but Arizona is not a running team so stay away this week.
Sunday games (unofficial xmas decoration day)
San Francisco at Buffalo
Another nice one for Takeo Spikes is in store
Michael Lewis would be a great start, but check injury report.
FS Ko Simpson for Buffalo is a sleeper in this one with Shaun Hill throwing a lot to stay in games P.S. I'd think hard and way your options if you have Posluszny. He hasn't exacly been a no brainer these days.
Baltimore at Cincinnati
I'd stay away, even from Dhani Jones. He's had plenty of chances against running teams over the last month. He just seems like he's quit. If you're desperate, a sleeper might be OLB Johnson for the Bengals. He took over for rookie Rivers after his broken jaw and has put up passable numbers. Baltimore does run.
Indianapolis at Cleveland
No definitive waiver wire pickups here. Check your waiver wire for frustrated Bob Sanders owners. If he's there, grab him and stash him, even if he doesn't play this week. Ditto for Keiaho owners. I doubt anyone dropped him while he was injured, but he's back.
Carolina at Green Bay
A.J. Hawk & Chillar for GB could both be on your wire. They're both on mine. I'm leaning toward Chillar for his pass coverage abilities and because DeAngelo is more of an outside runner. Carolina may try a lot of passes in the middle in front of those GB LBs. They have been soft there all year. This gives Chillar more opportunities. (I'm watching AJ Hawk as I write this and he looks slow and confused. He's looking like more of a risk than a reward. We'll see how he finishes tonight. I didn't expect many tackles at MLB vs. the Saints, but he can't even cover the Saint's backup tight ends. )
Miami at St. Louis
Same theory as I used for Detroit above. Another good matchup for OLB Pisa Tinoisamoa
This has nothing to do with waiver wire pickups, but on a personal note, I'm benching Channing Crowder unless Steven Jackson plays. St. Louis will be passing because their always behind so Miami CBs should be looked at if you're desperate for a DB, but I'd stay away if possible.
New Orleans at Tampa Bay
You'd have to be very lucky, but see if any hot-headed owners dropped Vilma over the past couple weeks. Vilma will have another big day.
NY Giants at Washington Redskins will both be playing hard
Definitely Antonio Pierce. He was on my wire last week, but I missed him.
Kiwanuka, Tuck and even Robbins is worth a shot.
See if McIntosh on the wire and Chris Horton too
Atlanta at San Diego
Wilhelm might be the only one you can find on the wire. He will be solid.
Brooking siting against Car. Expect another. Give him a try if you're in a pinch.
Pittsburgh at New England
WOW! How jealous we all are of Mayo owners
Ike Taylor & William Gay & Troy Polamalu (Polamalu on my wire, that's why I mention him here)
Denver at NY Jets
Winborn, Larsen & Woodyard Oh my! Start em, but first choice is Winborn.
NYJ Pace will be a solid pickup for you
Kansas City at Oakland *Strong Rivarly
Boimen has been great, but is he for real? He's been filling in and he'll get another week against a run first team who runs at the OLB. This is his 4th solid game in a row with 9 tackles 3 assists and a forced fumble. I'd say he's one of the better options of the week.
Pollard has also done well from the SS for KC
Chicago at Minnesota
SS Mike Brown got injured early in the game last week so keep an eye on him, but he could be very solid in this one if he plays
Monday night football
Jacksonville at Houston
Adibi did not have 14 tackles again, but did the most with the opportunities he had. He could have a big game against the Jacsksonville run game, but he's a gamble
Justin Durant should be very active Ahman Green is hurt so Houston will not run up the gut as much so avoid MLB Daryl Smith
DE Hayward might be a sneaky start
Start Mathis and Nelson against Sage "Turnover" Rosenfels
Go to Paris this Thanksgiving!
If there is anything that you can count on this season, it's that Detroit will be on Defense a lot and in all probability they'll be losing. This recipe always bodes well for Linebackers because once teams get ahead, they tend to turn to the run game to grind out the clock.
Thursday, they face a Tennessee team that needs to get their run game confidence and back on track. Although Ernie Sims would usually be the more likely LB in Detroit, he has been injured for over a month now and hasn't had any more than 4 solos during that stretch.
So Paris Lenon is the one you want Thursday in this game.
Seattle at Dallas
FS Ken Hamlin for Dal will be busy as Seattle plays catch up the whole game. They'll be lucky if they're not down by 30 at halftime in this one. (I probably just jinxed Romo. Sorry, Cowboys fans)
Turkey Day night game - Arizona at Philadelphia
Too hard to call, stay away from these players on the Waiver Wire
Philadelphia just got very, very embarassed and are desperate. They could be a dangerous team which makes this game difficult to predict. What will they do against Arizona? There is a ton of pressure on McNabb, on Reid, and people are losing their jobs like Omar Gaither. Akeem Jordan had a nice game in his place against Baltimore, but Arizona is not a running team so stay away this week.
Sunday games (unofficial xmas decoration day)
San Francisco at Buffalo
Another nice one for Takeo Spikes is in store
Michael Lewis would be a great start, but check injury report.
FS Ko Simpson for Buffalo is a sleeper in this one with Shaun Hill throwing a lot to stay in games P.S. I'd think hard and way your options if you have Posluszny. He hasn't exacly been a no brainer these days.
Baltimore at Cincinnati
I'd stay away, even from Dhani Jones. He's had plenty of chances against running teams over the last month. He just seems like he's quit. If you're desperate, a sleeper might be OLB Johnson for the Bengals. He took over for rookie Rivers after his broken jaw and has put up passable numbers. Baltimore does run.
Indianapolis at Cleveland
No definitive waiver wire pickups here. Check your waiver wire for frustrated Bob Sanders owners. If he's there, grab him and stash him, even if he doesn't play this week. Ditto for Keiaho owners. I doubt anyone dropped him while he was injured, but he's back.
Carolina at Green Bay
A.J. Hawk & Chillar for GB could both be on your wire. They're both on mine. I'm leaning toward Chillar for his pass coverage abilities and because DeAngelo is more of an outside runner. Carolina may try a lot of passes in the middle in front of those GB LBs. They have been soft there all year. This gives Chillar more opportunities. (I'm watching AJ Hawk as I write this and he looks slow and confused. He's looking like more of a risk than a reward. We'll see how he finishes tonight. I didn't expect many tackles at MLB vs. the Saints, but he can't even cover the Saint's backup tight ends. )
Miami at St. Louis
Same theory as I used for Detroit above. Another good matchup for OLB Pisa Tinoisamoa
This has nothing to do with waiver wire pickups, but on a personal note, I'm benching Channing Crowder unless Steven Jackson plays. St. Louis will be passing because their always behind so Miami CBs should be looked at if you're desperate for a DB, but I'd stay away if possible.
New Orleans at Tampa Bay
You'd have to be very lucky, but see if any hot-headed owners dropped Vilma over the past couple weeks. Vilma will have another big day.
NY Giants at Washington Redskins will both be playing hard
Definitely Antonio Pierce. He was on my wire last week, but I missed him.
Kiwanuka, Tuck and even Robbins is worth a shot.
See if McIntosh on the wire and Chris Horton too
Atlanta at San Diego
Wilhelm might be the only one you can find on the wire. He will be solid.
Brooking siting against Car. Expect another. Give him a try if you're in a pinch.
Pittsburgh at New England
WOW! How jealous we all are of Mayo owners
Ike Taylor & William Gay & Troy Polamalu (Polamalu on my wire, that's why I mention him here)
Denver at NY Jets
Winborn, Larsen & Woodyard Oh my! Start em, but first choice is Winborn.
NYJ Pace will be a solid pickup for you
Kansas City at Oakland *Strong Rivarly
Boimen has been great, but is he for real? He's been filling in and he'll get another week against a run first team who runs at the OLB. This is his 4th solid game in a row with 9 tackles 3 assists and a forced fumble. I'd say he's one of the better options of the week.
Pollard has also done well from the SS for KC
Chicago at Minnesota
SS Mike Brown got injured early in the game last week so keep an eye on him, but he could be very solid in this one if he plays
Monday night football
Jacksonville at Houston
Adibi did not have 14 tackles again, but did the most with the opportunities he had. He could have a big game against the Jacsksonville run game, but he's a gamble
Justin Durant should be very active Ahman Green is hurt so Houston will not run up the gut as much so avoid MLB Daryl Smith
DE Hayward might be a sneaky start
Start Mathis and Nelson against Sage "Turnover" Rosenfels
2008 Fantasy Footbally Week 12 IDP Waiver Pickups A.J. Hawk, Winborn or Woodyard, Thomas Davis, Xavier Adibi and Rankings
Week 12 IDP Waiver Pickups
Starting with Sneaky DB pickups:
This week free safety Renaldo Hill for Miami gets to play against New England for the second time this year and he's known to put up big tackle numbers. The Patriots changed their gameplan for the first half against the Jets last week. They went with a run attack gameplan. So Free Safety Kerry Rhodes of NYJ had lower numbers than expected. He still finished with 4 tackles and a fumble recovery. If no name K0 Simpson can get 7 tackles and 4 assists vs. NE then let's see what Renaldo Hill can do after already seeing this offense once this year. Need some #s R. Hill put up 7 tackles, Atogwe 7 tackles 1 INT & Colts FS Bethea posted 10 solos week 9 against the Pats.
DB Sleeper of the Week: Chris Johnson of Oakland goes against the pass happy Broncos and no one is throwing against Nnamdi Asomugha. He has shutdown everyone this year, including Steve Smith. He'll be on Brandon Marshall this week, but Eddie Royal is a strong second WR and remember that Royal broke onto the scene vs. Oakland the first game of this year. So expect Chris Johnson to be thrown to as much as DeAngelo Hall was. Last week he had 9 solo tackles against Miami.
Speaking of a Safe DB to play this week: SS Mike Brown of the Bears is a very solid player. In the last 3 weeks, has 5 tackles & an INT, then 8 tackles and then 9 tackles. This week he gets the Rams and an INT is a good possibility.
Jonathan Joseph is on Fire! Week 9 he had 15 Total tackles and 2 pass deflections. And last week he had 5 tackles an interception and 3 pass deflections.
Sneaky Linebacker Pickups for Week 12:
Green Bay LB Nick Barnett OUT FOR THE SEASON:
And A.J. Hawk stepped in to have 6 tackles in the first quarter. It looked like it was going to be a monster day, but Green Bay started blowing out Chicago so quickly that the Bears had to switch to the pass. So Hawk ended up only adding 1 assist onto his total for the rest of the day. Hawk gets New Orleans next week who will run just enough to get Hawk at least 10 FF points.
Winborn or Woodyard for Denver?
How about both!!! This is 2 weeks in a row that both hit double digits in tackles. Don't expect the same thing against Oakland next week. That doesn't mean don't play them, but it does mean not to expect double digit numbers. It looks like Winborn is the one you want thus far.
CAR LB Thomas Davis: This wasn't too bad of a call for me last week, huh. How about 10 tackles, 1 assist, .5 sack, 1 Int and 1 pass deflection. That's 27.5 points in my league! How bout an LB who gets the same amount of points as Marion Barber in my PPR league. Heck, he doubled my QBs points (Cutler) this past week.
What is in the water with these Houston LBs this year? Xavier Adibi with 14 tackles and 1 assist. The worst part is he is just filling in for Morlon Greenwood. So unless Greenwood is out again next week, we won't even know if Adibi will play against Cleveland in week 12 where outside LBs go off! Ouch, monitor closely. I scooped him up. Another Diles?
Other Linebackers I've scooped up: Justin Durant of Jacksonville is the most athletic of the bunch and reaping the most benefits of Mike Peterson's supposed benching. I say "supposed" because although Daryl Smith started, Peterson finished with 5 tackles. So the question is, will Daryl Smith roll back over to his OLB spot putting Durant on the bench when Peterson comes in or does Smith stay on the bench and Durant stay in? Durant finished with 8 solos this week.
Lastly: Clint Session of Indy had 18 FF points. I've been watching him all year and next week he gets San Diego where he came alive with 2 INTs last year.
Week 12 DT sleeper of the Week:
Vonnie Holliday for Miami is quietly having a good year and goes into a game against the very sacked Matt Cassel with 3 sacks/8 tackles in the last 2 weeks.
Robert Geathers for the Bengals gets the Pittsburgh Steelers this week fresh off a 3 tackle 1 sack 1 pass deflection game
Ogunleye gets the Rams this week and his tackles have been high. Add a sack to those tackle numbers and this should be a solid week for him.
Starting with Sneaky DB pickups:
This week free safety Renaldo Hill for Miami gets to play against New England for the second time this year and he's known to put up big tackle numbers. The Patriots changed their gameplan for the first half against the Jets last week. They went with a run attack gameplan. So Free Safety Kerry Rhodes of NYJ had lower numbers than expected. He still finished with 4 tackles and a fumble recovery. If no name K0 Simpson can get 7 tackles and 4 assists vs. NE then let's see what Renaldo Hill can do after already seeing this offense once this year. Need some #s R. Hill put up 7 tackles, Atogwe 7 tackles 1 INT & Colts FS Bethea posted 10 solos week 9 against the Pats.
DB Sleeper of the Week: Chris Johnson of Oakland goes against the pass happy Broncos and no one is throwing against Nnamdi Asomugha. He has shutdown everyone this year, including Steve Smith. He'll be on Brandon Marshall this week, but Eddie Royal is a strong second WR and remember that Royal broke onto the scene vs. Oakland the first game of this year. So expect Chris Johnson to be thrown to as much as DeAngelo Hall was. Last week he had 9 solo tackles against Miami.
Speaking of a Safe DB to play this week: SS Mike Brown of the Bears is a very solid player. In the last 3 weeks, has 5 tackles & an INT, then 8 tackles and then 9 tackles. This week he gets the Rams and an INT is a good possibility.
Jonathan Joseph is on Fire! Week 9 he had 15 Total tackles and 2 pass deflections. And last week he had 5 tackles an interception and 3 pass deflections.
Sneaky Linebacker Pickups for Week 12:
Green Bay LB Nick Barnett OUT FOR THE SEASON:
And A.J. Hawk stepped in to have 6 tackles in the first quarter. It looked like it was going to be a monster day, but Green Bay started blowing out Chicago so quickly that the Bears had to switch to the pass. So Hawk ended up only adding 1 assist onto his total for the rest of the day. Hawk gets New Orleans next week who will run just enough to get Hawk at least 10 FF points.
Winborn or Woodyard for Denver?
How about both!!! This is 2 weeks in a row that both hit double digits in tackles. Don't expect the same thing against Oakland next week. That doesn't mean don't play them, but it does mean not to expect double digit numbers. It looks like Winborn is the one you want thus far.
CAR LB Thomas Davis: This wasn't too bad of a call for me last week, huh. How about 10 tackles, 1 assist, .5 sack, 1 Int and 1 pass deflection. That's 27.5 points in my league! How bout an LB who gets the same amount of points as Marion Barber in my PPR league. Heck, he doubled my QBs points (Cutler) this past week.
What is in the water with these Houston LBs this year? Xavier Adibi with 14 tackles and 1 assist. The worst part is he is just filling in for Morlon Greenwood. So unless Greenwood is out again next week, we won't even know if Adibi will play against Cleveland in week 12 where outside LBs go off! Ouch, monitor closely. I scooped him up. Another Diles?
Other Linebackers I've scooped up: Justin Durant of Jacksonville is the most athletic of the bunch and reaping the most benefits of Mike Peterson's supposed benching. I say "supposed" because although Daryl Smith started, Peterson finished with 5 tackles. So the question is, will Daryl Smith roll back over to his OLB spot putting Durant on the bench when Peterson comes in or does Smith stay on the bench and Durant stay in? Durant finished with 8 solos this week.
Lastly: Clint Session of Indy had 18 FF points. I've been watching him all year and next week he gets San Diego where he came alive with 2 INTs last year.
Week 12 DT sleeper of the Week:
Vonnie Holliday for Miami is quietly having a good year and goes into a game against the very sacked Matt Cassel with 3 sacks/8 tackles in the last 2 weeks.
Robert Geathers for the Bengals gets the Pittsburgh Steelers this week fresh off a 3 tackle 1 sack 1 pass deflection game
Ogunleye gets the Rams this week and his tackles have been high. Add a sack to those tackle numbers and this should be a solid week for him.
Week 11, 2008 PPR Fantasy Gold found in Seattle Seahawks vs. Arizona Cardinals game? Watching Hasselbeck, Engram and even Robinson
Now is the time to strategize for your playoff run. I'm in a ppr league that rewards QBs 6 points for TDs so I'm keeping my eye keenly on 1 game this weekend for fantasy waiver wire gold. Specifically, I'm watching Bobby Engram (94 catches last year with Hasselbeck throwing him the ball) and Matt Hasselbeck. And I'd like to see if Hasselbeck has the same chemistry with Koren Robinson that Seneca Wallace had. This is Holmgren's retirement year and he has had one bad break after another. Hasselbeck will play this week vs. Arizona and he will be throwing to Branch, Engram, KoRo, and Carlson while J. Jones (coming off good game & Morris are healthy) Seattle has a nice schedule to finish the season and it's very hard to believe, but somehow they still have a small (albeit very, very small) shot of making the playoffs. Everything hinges on beating Arizona this week. If Seattle's defense can finally come together and play like they were supposed to play this year, they have a decent chance. Their special teams have also stepped up lately. And guess where this game is going to be played. The place they call the "12th man" where Seattle fans know what is at stake and should be emotionally charged with all the starters returning and knowing that this is Holmgren's last chance to salvage this nightmare of a season. Call me an optimist, a sucker for the underdog and a sap to want to see a coaching legend have one last well deserved day in the sun, but I'm hoping against hope that Seattle gets this one. I love Kurt Warner and I think he will take his team to the playoffs if he can stay healthy. I even hope he gets MVP this year. I just don't want to see Arizona win this particular game. Can't believe I'm saying go Hawks after they knocked my beloved Redskins out of the playoffs last year, but what the heck, Go HAWKS!
2008 Week 11 Fantasy Football IDP and replacing injuries Woodyard or Winborn, Bentley, Hawk for Barnett, Mike Peterson, Thomas Davis Waiver Rankings
Week 11 IDP Waiver Pickups
Starting with Sneaky DB pickups:
Staying with any Free Safety vs. New England. This week it's Kerry Rhodes of NYJ. If my last weeks hunch of no name K0 Simpson can get 7 tackles and 4 assists then let's hit the Rhode this week! Add Ko Simpson to the list of no names like Bethea, Atogwe and Renaldo Hill vs NE. Need some #s R. Hill put up 7 tackles, Atogwe 7 tackles 1 INT & Colts FS Bethea who put up 2 solos the week prior put up 10 solos week 9 against the Pats. Pencil Rhodes in for a guaranteed minimum of 7 tackles. That's 14 points in my league and I'll take it.
Same NE game: Revis It seems that all left CBs who line up over Welker collect big tackle numbers as well. The only issue here is: Will the Jets put Revis on Moss all day, which leaves Lowery on Welker or will they play their respective sides? This is why Rhodes is safest of the NYJ secondary.
Speaking of Safe DB to play this week: Erik Coleman of the Atlanta Falcons is putting together big IDP year. And this week he faces a Denver offense that has no choice but to put up the ball at least 40 times. They have 1 running back left on their roster named Hillis and I think he's a backup fullback. So Coleman will see a ton of passes whether he's on Royal, Marshall or even picks up Stokely in the zone.
FS Madieu Williams vs TB: I know what you're thinking. Does TB pass a lot? Everyone must pass against Minnesota thanks to that strong run defense. In his 2 games, he is currently averaging 16 points a game. Very solid.
Sneaky Linebacker Pickups for Week 11:
Green Bay LB Nick Barnett OUT FOR THE SEASON:
And it is A.J. Hawk, not Desmond Bishop who will replace Barnett. Barnett ended the game with 5 solo tackles. Desmond Bishop stepped in on the second series of the second half. If he played the whole game, he would have finished with approximately 10 solos and a forced fumble. That's better than any of my 5 "regular" starters did this week. Heck, his score would have more than doubled 2 of my guys. Now A.J. Hawk starts at MLB against a run heavy Chicago Bears team next week. But will this stay at starting linebacker? He is week against the pass so he will probably come out on 3rd downs. He's worth a roster spot.
What's up with Mike Peterson and Del Rio?
As of today (Thursday) it doesn't look like he's starting against the run first Titans. All indications are that Daryl Smith will go at MLB this weekend. Keep an eye on this one because Daryl Smith did a nice job in his place last weekend vs. Detroit finishing with 7 total tackles and 1.5 sacks.
Winborn or Woodyard for Denver?
With injuries to Boss Bailey and D.J. Williams, both Winborn and Woodyard stepped up against Cleveland. Winborn with 12 tackles and Woodyard with 10. Much of this was because of short passes, but I believe Atlanta will run the ball to slow down the pace of this game and keep the ball out of Jay Cutler's hands. Cutler and Royal proved last week that they can go 90 yards for a TD in less than 12 seconds. So which guy do you take? I say go for the guy who's replacing DJ Williams and that is the rookie Woodyard. My reasoning for this is because NO LB Fujita had his best game by a long shot last week against Atlanta (12 tackles) from the same position that Woodyard is now playing. I still think Winborn will have a least 6-8 tackles so he's solid as well.
CAR LB Thomas Davis vs. Det: The guy has quietly been building his numbers and been very consistent with 7-8 tackles most of the season finishing last week with 10 total tackles.
Diles fill-in Bentley for Houston: Fantasy superstar Zack Diles injury has meant 2 things. The first is that his injury gave a huge boost to Demeco Ryans numbers. But the second was it gave IDP players another chance for a good waiver option. Bentley finished with 7 total tackles and a sack last week and goes against the Colts this week who love to run screens and run plays off the edge.
My Pickup of the week if he's available : Bradie James of the Cowboys. Personally, I'm very upset I missed this claim this week in my league. This week James goes up against the Redskins where inside linebackers are averaging an insane 18 tackles a game, highest in the league. (think Portis runs up the middle much?) Keep an eye on the status on Portis though. He's currently 50/50, but I can't imagine him missing a cowboys game
P.S. Paris Lenon should be solid again. Ernie Sims shoulder is hurting and Lenon is helping him finish tackles while racking up extra assists. Keep an eye on the injury status of Dizon. They may try to get him more work to see what he can do since this is a lost season.
DT suggestion of the Week:
NYJ DE Ellis vs. the Patriots. Last week Buffalo DE Ryan Denney had 11 total tackles and 2 pass deflections. I'm not good at math, but that's a lot of FF points. Especially considering Denney was averaging 2.75 tackles a game prior to last week. And, yes, he started and played ever snap of every game this year. Ellis has 7 sacks this year you if he's available, you have to give him a try in this matchup. Don't be the guy who leaves 25 woulda, coulda, shoulda points on the wire. DE's have been very solid against NE all year. I'm half tempted to grab him myself, but my league is geared mores toward LBs and does not require CBs or DEs.
DE Dewayne White is injured and out this week
DE John Abraham is awesome and good to go against a week Denver O-line who will be pass protecting rather than rush blocking most of the day. Lot so passes equals lots of opportunities for Abraham
Starting with Sneaky DB pickups:
Staying with any Free Safety vs. New England. This week it's Kerry Rhodes of NYJ. If my last weeks hunch of no name K0 Simpson can get 7 tackles and 4 assists then let's hit the Rhode this week! Add Ko Simpson to the list of no names like Bethea, Atogwe and Renaldo Hill vs NE. Need some #s R. Hill put up 7 tackles, Atogwe 7 tackles 1 INT & Colts FS Bethea who put up 2 solos the week prior put up 10 solos week 9 against the Pats. Pencil Rhodes in for a guaranteed minimum of 7 tackles. That's 14 points in my league and I'll take it.
Same NE game: Revis It seems that all left CBs who line up over Welker collect big tackle numbers as well. The only issue here is: Will the Jets put Revis on Moss all day, which leaves Lowery on Welker or will they play their respective sides? This is why Rhodes is safest of the NYJ secondary.
Speaking of Safe DB to play this week: Erik Coleman of the Atlanta Falcons is putting together big IDP year. And this week he faces a Denver offense that has no choice but to put up the ball at least 40 times. They have 1 running back left on their roster named Hillis and I think he's a backup fullback. So Coleman will see a ton of passes whether he's on Royal, Marshall or even picks up Stokely in the zone.
FS Madieu Williams vs TB: I know what you're thinking. Does TB pass a lot? Everyone must pass against Minnesota thanks to that strong run defense. In his 2 games, he is currently averaging 16 points a game. Very solid.
Sneaky Linebacker Pickups for Week 11:
Green Bay LB Nick Barnett OUT FOR THE SEASON:
And it is A.J. Hawk, not Desmond Bishop who will replace Barnett. Barnett ended the game with 5 solo tackles. Desmond Bishop stepped in on the second series of the second half. If he played the whole game, he would have finished with approximately 10 solos and a forced fumble. That's better than any of my 5 "regular" starters did this week. Heck, his score would have more than doubled 2 of my guys. Now A.J. Hawk starts at MLB against a run heavy Chicago Bears team next week. But will this stay at starting linebacker? He is week against the pass so he will probably come out on 3rd downs. He's worth a roster spot.
What's up with Mike Peterson and Del Rio?
As of today (Thursday) it doesn't look like he's starting against the run first Titans. All indications are that Daryl Smith will go at MLB this weekend. Keep an eye on this one because Daryl Smith did a nice job in his place last weekend vs. Detroit finishing with 7 total tackles and 1.5 sacks.
Winborn or Woodyard for Denver?
With injuries to Boss Bailey and D.J. Williams, both Winborn and Woodyard stepped up against Cleveland. Winborn with 12 tackles and Woodyard with 10. Much of this was because of short passes, but I believe Atlanta will run the ball to slow down the pace of this game and keep the ball out of Jay Cutler's hands. Cutler and Royal proved last week that they can go 90 yards for a TD in less than 12 seconds. So which guy do you take? I say go for the guy who's replacing DJ Williams and that is the rookie Woodyard. My reasoning for this is because NO LB Fujita had his best game by a long shot last week against Atlanta (12 tackles) from the same position that Woodyard is now playing. I still think Winborn will have a least 6-8 tackles so he's solid as well.
CAR LB Thomas Davis vs. Det: The guy has quietly been building his numbers and been very consistent with 7-8 tackles most of the season finishing last week with 10 total tackles.
Diles fill-in Bentley for Houston: Fantasy superstar Zack Diles injury has meant 2 things. The first is that his injury gave a huge boost to Demeco Ryans numbers. But the second was it gave IDP players another chance for a good waiver option. Bentley finished with 7 total tackles and a sack last week and goes against the Colts this week who love to run screens and run plays off the edge.
My Pickup of the week if he's available : Bradie James of the Cowboys. Personally, I'm very upset I missed this claim this week in my league. This week James goes up against the Redskins where inside linebackers are averaging an insane 18 tackles a game, highest in the league. (think Portis runs up the middle much?) Keep an eye on the status on Portis though. He's currently 50/50, but I can't imagine him missing a cowboys game
P.S. Paris Lenon should be solid again. Ernie Sims shoulder is hurting and Lenon is helping him finish tackles while racking up extra assists. Keep an eye on the injury status of Dizon. They may try to get him more work to see what he can do since this is a lost season.
DT suggestion of the Week:
NYJ DE Ellis vs. the Patriots. Last week Buffalo DE Ryan Denney had 11 total tackles and 2 pass deflections. I'm not good at math, but that's a lot of FF points. Especially considering Denney was averaging 2.75 tackles a game prior to last week. And, yes, he started and played ever snap of every game this year. Ellis has 7 sacks this year you if he's available, you have to give him a try in this matchup. Don't be the guy who leaves 25 woulda, coulda, shoulda points on the wire. DE's have been very solid against NE all year. I'm half tempted to grab him myself, but my league is geared mores toward LBs and does not require CBs or DEs.
DE Dewayne White is injured and out this week
DE John Abraham is awesome and good to go against a week Denver O-line who will be pass protecting rather than rush blocking most of the day. Lot so passes equals lots of opportunities for Abraham
2008 Fantasy Footbally Week 10 IDP Waiver Pickups Injuries to DJ Williams, Whitner, David Harris, Shaun Rogers and Rankings
Week 10 IDP Waiver Pickups
Starting with Sneaky DB pickups:
Go Ko this week! That's right K0 Simpson. Wait a minute, who??? If you don't recognize that name, how about Bethea, Atogwe or Renaldo Hill?? What do all of these guys have in common? These are all basically no name free safeties who all put up monster numbers when playing the New England Patriots. And guess who the starting free safety is this week against NE. You got it, Go Ko! Need some #s R. Hill put up 7 tackles, Atogwe 7 tackles 1 INT & Colts FS Bethea who put up 2 solos the week prior put up 10 solos week 9 against the Pats. My only small concern is that Buffalo could change up their package vs. the Pats and Bryan Scott who's filling the spot of injured Whitner would become the bread winner. This only happened one other time vs. the Pats this year when the Jets did this and the two SS led the team in tackles that week.
Don't want to take quite so big of a risk? Staying with that same game and same philosophy, go with an oldy, but goody Terrence McGee who yahoo projects at 14.5 points this week.
Following the DeAngelo Hall Recipe: SF DB Walt Harris is a sneaky play vs. Arizona this week. He should be Larry Fitzgerald's doormat all day and doormats get stepped on a lot in heavy traffic. Translation in Fantasy Football - stepped on = many tackles and opportunities. Let's face it, Kurt Warner is great just as Bret Farve is great (or was and kind of is now). And apparently great QBs through quite a few interceptions. Hey, I didn't label them great, I'm just repeating what I hear. The stats don't lie though, Kurt will through an INT or 2 and why not Walt Harris. He's going to have a lot of balls thrown his way.
FS Madieu Williams vs GB: What a start last week with 22 fantasy points. 10 total tackles and an INT. Free Safeties are hard to predict, but I didn't think Williams would do as well as he did last week so I'd say he's as safe a bet as any FS out there this week.
Sneaky Linebacker Pickups for Week 10:
MLB Pat Thomas vs SD should see plenty of tackle opportunities. LT is almost 100% and will easily get his 100 yards and then some. Heck, I'm going to guess Sproles gets his 100 yard game that he always seems to sneak in once or twice a year. KC will be on Defense a lot and Pat Thomas is the starting middle linebacker. He should get at least 5 tackles just standing still and allowing a guy to trip over his face mask.
WLB Omar Gaither vs Giants: The Giants run a lot. And the Eagles Blitz a lot. The best defense agains the Blitz is draws, screens and short slants. Omar Gaither will get at least 6 tackles. Solid FF stats.
NYJ Linebacker Bowens vs STL: Filling in for injured LB David Harris, Bowens has done well for himself with 1 sack in each of his games (that's 2 total). He has also averaged 4 solos a game. I don't feel that St. Louis will run often or even have their offense on the field often in this game. So my recommendation here is banking on Bowens getting a couple sacks in this game. He will not have very many tackling opportunities, however, due to St. Louis being decimated at RB.
Det MLB Paris Lenon vs. Jacksonville: This will be an average, but solid FF game for Lenon. Jordan Dizon, continues to be injured so Lenon owners don't have to look over his shoulder this week. Jacksonville is a running team and the Detroit D should be on the field a lot. The way things work in the NFL, as you may have noticed, is that when a team is utterly embarrassed like the Jaquers were last week by allowing the Bengals to get their first win over a super soft Jaqs effort is they will come out very hard to erase the terrible fan and press fallout that they received all week leading up to Week 10. Ironically, they play the next team in the league that has not won a game yet. Expect Jacksonville to lay it all on the line this week.
Vikings Napoleon Harris MLB vs GB: This is more of a warm body than anything else, but he is a starting MLB in the National Football League, but he only gets the scraps that the vicious front 4 allow him to have. For some reason, Ryan Grant has always been able to run agains this very good run stopping unit. So Harris could be good for double digit fantasy points this week. Division rivalries are always wacky.
Don't try to pick up a Denver replacement for DJ Williams or Boss Bailey. It's way to muddled between 3 guys right now.
Not much of a DT guy:
However, when researching how free safeties do against the Pats, I continually noticed that DTs do very well against them. Those would be Marcus Stroud & Kyle Williams this week. Each very even with Stroud at 22 tackles and 2 sacks and K. Williams at 24 tackles and 1 sack.
DE Dewayne White for Detroit continues his red hot FF streak picking up an INT of all things this last week. Jacksonville's O line has been terrible and plagued with injuries all year. So. he should be able to continue his FF streak
Speaking of red hot, keep an eye on Cleveland DT Shaun Rogers for week 10. It's a short week with them playing this Thursday and his ribs are really hurting.
Starting with Sneaky DB pickups:
Go Ko this week! That's right K0 Simpson. Wait a minute, who??? If you don't recognize that name, how about Bethea, Atogwe or Renaldo Hill?? What do all of these guys have in common? These are all basically no name free safeties who all put up monster numbers when playing the New England Patriots. And guess who the starting free safety is this week against NE. You got it, Go Ko! Need some #s R. Hill put up 7 tackles, Atogwe 7 tackles 1 INT & Colts FS Bethea who put up 2 solos the week prior put up 10 solos week 9 against the Pats. My only small concern is that Buffalo could change up their package vs. the Pats and Bryan Scott who's filling the spot of injured Whitner would become the bread winner. This only happened one other time vs. the Pats this year when the Jets did this and the two SS led the team in tackles that week.
Don't want to take quite so big of a risk? Staying with that same game and same philosophy, go with an oldy, but goody Terrence McGee who yahoo projects at 14.5 points this week.
Following the DeAngelo Hall Recipe: SF DB Walt Harris is a sneaky play vs. Arizona this week. He should be Larry Fitzgerald's doormat all day and doormats get stepped on a lot in heavy traffic. Translation in Fantasy Football - stepped on = many tackles and opportunities. Let's face it, Kurt Warner is great just as Bret Farve is great (or was and kind of is now). And apparently great QBs through quite a few interceptions. Hey, I didn't label them great, I'm just repeating what I hear. The stats don't lie though, Kurt will through an INT or 2 and why not Walt Harris. He's going to have a lot of balls thrown his way.
FS Madieu Williams vs GB: What a start last week with 22 fantasy points. 10 total tackles and an INT. Free Safeties are hard to predict, but I didn't think Williams would do as well as he did last week so I'd say he's as safe a bet as any FS out there this week.
Sneaky Linebacker Pickups for Week 10:
MLB Pat Thomas vs SD should see plenty of tackle opportunities. LT is almost 100% and will easily get his 100 yards and then some. Heck, I'm going to guess Sproles gets his 100 yard game that he always seems to sneak in once or twice a year. KC will be on Defense a lot and Pat Thomas is the starting middle linebacker. He should get at least 5 tackles just standing still and allowing a guy to trip over his face mask.
WLB Omar Gaither vs Giants: The Giants run a lot. And the Eagles Blitz a lot. The best defense agains the Blitz is draws, screens and short slants. Omar Gaither will get at least 6 tackles. Solid FF stats.
NYJ Linebacker Bowens vs STL: Filling in for injured LB David Harris, Bowens has done well for himself with 1 sack in each of his games (that's 2 total). He has also averaged 4 solos a game. I don't feel that St. Louis will run often or even have their offense on the field often in this game. So my recommendation here is banking on Bowens getting a couple sacks in this game. He will not have very many tackling opportunities, however, due to St. Louis being decimated at RB.
Det MLB Paris Lenon vs. Jacksonville: This will be an average, but solid FF game for Lenon. Jordan Dizon, continues to be injured so Lenon owners don't have to look over his shoulder this week. Jacksonville is a running team and the Detroit D should be on the field a lot. The way things work in the NFL, as you may have noticed, is that when a team is utterly embarrassed like the Jaquers were last week by allowing the Bengals to get their first win over a super soft Jaqs effort is they will come out very hard to erase the terrible fan and press fallout that they received all week leading up to Week 10. Ironically, they play the next team in the league that has not won a game yet. Expect Jacksonville to lay it all on the line this week.
Vikings Napoleon Harris MLB vs GB: This is more of a warm body than anything else, but he is a starting MLB in the National Football League, but he only gets the scraps that the vicious front 4 allow him to have. For some reason, Ryan Grant has always been able to run agains this very good run stopping unit. So Harris could be good for double digit fantasy points this week. Division rivalries are always wacky.
Don't try to pick up a Denver replacement for DJ Williams or Boss Bailey. It's way to muddled between 3 guys right now.
Not much of a DT guy:
However, when researching how free safeties do against the Pats, I continually noticed that DTs do very well against them. Those would be Marcus Stroud & Kyle Williams this week. Each very even with Stroud at 22 tackles and 2 sacks and K. Williams at 24 tackles and 1 sack.
DE Dewayne White for Detroit continues his red hot FF streak picking up an INT of all things this last week. Jacksonville's O line has been terrible and plagued with injuries all year. So. he should be able to continue his FF streak
Speaking of red hot, keep an eye on Cleveland DT Shaun Rogers for week 10. It's a short week with them playing this Thursday and his ribs are really hurting.
Week 3 IDP & PPR Fantasy Football 2008 Waiver Rankings - Korean Robinson Dhani Jones
Week 3 IDP Waiver Pickups (Week 3 Offense PPR is below this article)
Seems like the year of the 'Corner and Safety'. They are leading in tackles and points so far. This trend may be here to stay. It makes sense since it is also the year of the 'Wide Receiver' rather that workhorse running backs. And since teams are passing more than that means more sacks as well. I have always been a Middle Linebacker guy, but maybe it's time to adapt with the times. There are still a handful of MLBs worth picking up from the wire.
If you get in a jam this year. Here is a weekly strategy. Start, by looking at a team with 2 strong WRs. Arizona, Detroit, etc. Then look at their matchup. Detroit went against Atlanta week 1. A first year CB named Brent Grimes from Division II Shippensburg University was matched up with Calvin Johnson. Brent Grimes led his team in tackles that week. Why? A good offensive coordinator will always try to exploit that CB and that CB will end up with a lot of work. More work, more chances = more tackles. Another example came this week. Rookie CB Tracy Porter was toasted by Santana Moss all day. As a result, they threw at him a ton and Porter finished with 8 tackles and 1 assist. If he continues to start at CB, expect other teams to follow this pattern.
MLB
I'm loving my Channing Crowder pick-up. It took guts for me to drop Keith Brooking for Crowder prior to the first game, but he's the best on my team. See if this MLB for Miami is still available on your wire.
Dhani Jones: Time for Cincinnati's MLB. We all shyed away because he does not have a proven past. However, Cincinatti will be on defense a lot and he's proven to have 2 consistent weeks in a row.
C. Session: LB for the Indianapolis Colts is a good guy to scoop of if you have the room.
E. Barton: LB for the Jets had 6 tackles & 2 assists. D. Harris hasn't even come close to living up to his 10 tackle average of last year. You can't drop him, but I took him with my 1st pick. (ouch)
* Wilhelm: LB for the Chargers has always been solid. See if he's available on your wire.
Keep an eye on Pat Thomas, the KC MLB. He could be an OK bench fill-in.
Week 3 PPR Waiver Pickups
Breaking News: WR Korean Robinson was picked up by Seattle for Week 3. Monitor closely. He's got talent.
WR Justin Gage Titans: With Kerry Collins slinging it, a good Titans D to get the offense back on the field, he's got #3 WR potential.
WR Brandon Lloyd Bears: is one to keep an eye on
WR James Jones Packers: Rodgers go to guy when he was running the second string O behind Farve. Very comfortable with him.
RB W. Dunn in Tampa Bay. He continues to get the reps and the catches. Might be a nice pick up.
RB Pierre Thomas: Decent Bye week fill in. Maybe more.
RB Chris Perry may have been dropped by some people in your league week 1, scoop him up if you have room on your bench. This team can go nowhere but up and he's their #1 RB. I'm as puzzled as everyone else why Watson is NOT the #1, but we don't make the rules in FF, we just try to take advantage of them.
RB Keep an eye on Michael Bush of the Raiders
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Seems like the year of the 'Corner and Safety'. They are leading in tackles and points so far. This trend may be here to stay. It makes sense since it is also the year of the 'Wide Receiver' rather that workhorse running backs. And since teams are passing more than that means more sacks as well. I have always been a Middle Linebacker guy, but maybe it's time to adapt with the times. There are still a handful of MLBs worth picking up from the wire.
If you get in a jam this year. Here is a weekly strategy. Start, by looking at a team with 2 strong WRs. Arizona, Detroit, etc. Then look at their matchup. Detroit went against Atlanta week 1. A first year CB named Brent Grimes from Division II Shippensburg University was matched up with Calvin Johnson. Brent Grimes led his team in tackles that week. Why? A good offensive coordinator will always try to exploit that CB and that CB will end up with a lot of work. More work, more chances = more tackles. Another example came this week. Rookie CB Tracy Porter was toasted by Santana Moss all day. As a result, they threw at him a ton and Porter finished with 8 tackles and 1 assist. If he continues to start at CB, expect other teams to follow this pattern.
MLB
I'm loving my Channing Crowder pick-up. It took guts for me to drop Keith Brooking for Crowder prior to the first game, but he's the best on my team. See if this MLB for Miami is still available on your wire.
Dhani Jones: Time for Cincinnati's MLB. We all shyed away because he does not have a proven past. However, Cincinatti will be on defense a lot and he's proven to have 2 consistent weeks in a row.
C. Session: LB for the Indianapolis Colts is a good guy to scoop of if you have the room.
E. Barton: LB for the Jets had 6 tackles & 2 assists. D. Harris hasn't even come close to living up to his 10 tackle average of last year. You can't drop him, but I took him with my 1st pick. (ouch)
* Wilhelm: LB for the Chargers has always been solid. See if he's available on your wire.
Keep an eye on Pat Thomas, the KC MLB. He could be an OK bench fill-in.
Week 3 PPR Waiver Pickups
Breaking News: WR Korean Robinson was picked up by Seattle for Week 3. Monitor closely. He's got talent.
WR Justin Gage Titans: With Kerry Collins slinging it, a good Titans D to get the offense back on the field, he's got #3 WR potential.
WR Brandon Lloyd Bears: is one to keep an eye on
WR James Jones Packers: Rodgers go to guy when he was running the second string O behind Farve. Very comfortable with him.
RB W. Dunn in Tampa Bay. He continues to get the reps and the catches. Might be a nice pick up.
RB Pierre Thomas: Decent Bye week fill in. Maybe more.
RB Chris Perry may have been dropped by some people in your league week 1, scoop him up if you have room on your bench. This team can go nowhere but up and he's their #1 RB. I'm as puzzled as everyone else why Watson is NOT the #1, but we don't make the rules in FF, we just try to take advantage of them.
RB Keep an eye on Michael Bush of the Raiders
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Week 2 2008 Fantasy weekly Rankings - Eddie Royal talk and more
When choosing a fantasy ranking or weekly start/bench site, look at their archived articles. Every expert gets the picks wrong and that's OK. However, it's the sleeper picks that make the difference between a bad source and a good source. Not a single FF expert could have told you that Tory Holt would have 1 catch or that Eddie Royal would have 9 for 146 & a TD. However, the good ones express that they have a hunch due to the matchup. Over my years of scouring the web for the best sources, I have never found the "major" sites to be as accurate. "Off the radar" blogs like Bruno Boys, FFLibrarian, Rotoworld are the gems. MSN Fox Sports & CBS are the ABSOLUTE WORST sources and are very wrong every time. Their strategy is to go with the biggest names that everyone knows and ride the "bandwagon" express. After you get past the first 10 big names on their chart, it looks like they used a program to randomly scramble and assign stats to the rest of the players on the list. This does not win you your league championship. My wife could tell you that LT, Brady, Moss, Owens and Romo are good.
Espn & Yahoo occasionally give decent tidbits. Brad Evan takes some gamble with his sleepers and I like to see that. Matthew Berry for ESPN swings for the fences and I respect that. When he whiffs, he whiffs huge, but he's not afraid to tell you to pick up a no name like James Jones from GB (when he comes back from his injury) and then tells you the reason. It's because James Jones and Aaron Rodgers were on the practice squad together for years and have a great chemistry. That is good sound football advice. A sweet little podcast called Fantasy Freakin' Football was very high on snagging Eddie Royal late in all your drafts. WOW! Great Call! Watching him, you can tell that he is here to stay. He reminds me of Gary Clark, a short 1980's Redskins WR, who just flat out knew how to get open and what to do with it after he caught it.
My best advice when searching Google is to type in 2 names of players that you're trying to decide between and then add the words 2008 and Fantasy to narrow the search (IDP search example: Lofton Brooking Fantasy 2008) Maybe add the search term "IDP" in there to narrow more. Another thing to do is go into Google's "advanced search" and choose the "dates" option to narrow articles posted within the last week. It's amazing how much knowledge "true" football fans have out there. So travel off the beaten path and get away from those "commercial" sites.
Espn & Yahoo occasionally give decent tidbits. Brad Evan takes some gamble with his sleepers and I like to see that. Matthew Berry for ESPN swings for the fences and I respect that. When he whiffs, he whiffs huge, but he's not afraid to tell you to pick up a no name like James Jones from GB (when he comes back from his injury) and then tells you the reason. It's because James Jones and Aaron Rodgers were on the practice squad together for years and have a great chemistry. That is good sound football advice. A sweet little podcast called Fantasy Freakin' Football was very high on snagging Eddie Royal late in all your drafts. WOW! Great Call! Watching him, you can tell that he is here to stay. He reminds me of Gary Clark, a short 1980's Redskins WR, who just flat out knew how to get open and what to do with it after he caught it.
My best advice when searching Google is to type in 2 names of players that you're trying to decide between and then add the words 2008 and Fantasy to narrow the search (IDP search example: Lofton Brooking Fantasy 2008) Maybe add the search term "IDP" in there to narrow more. Another thing to do is go into Google's "advanced search" and choose the "dates" option to narrow articles posted within the last week. It's amazing how much knowledge "true" football fans have out there. So travel off the beaten path and get away from those "commercial" sites.
2008 Fantasy Football IDP Rankings Waiver Wire and Draft Cheatsheet
IDP draft plan |
August 12, 2008
Special IDP report from FantasyGuru.com
The following is a guide for those of you who play in IDP leagues featuring, at a minimum, seven weekly defensive starters and a comprehensive scoring system. As a rough example, your league should track tackles, sacks, PD, and INT at the minimum, and all big plays should be worth more points than a single tackle.
I had my play last year, but my strategy will be a little different this season, as I think there's an abundance of talent available at LB, the backbone of any IDP roster. There are seemingly fewer impact players than usual along the D-Line, and plenty of questions at a deep, but less certain DB position. The LBs are often compared to RBs on offense, that is, you have to have the top guys or you have no shot. But for '08, I think the LB list is about 40 deep, with the possibility of little variance outside the top two guys.
This section begins with the same theme every season, and it's not out of sheer laziness (as far as you know). It's essential that you have a plan to draft the necessary offensive talent before targeting any defenders. In almost every IDP league, offensive players are still much more valuable than their defensive counterparts. I'm in a league entering its 18th season of drafting full defensive rosters, including at least five IDP backups. It was designed to equally value the offensive and defensive sides of the ball and has yet to actually realize that goal. In other words, Demeco Ryans isn't going to outscore Tom Brady if both players stay healthy. I'm not sure you need to fill in your entire starting offense before moving to the IDPs, but it's not going to kill you, either, especially with so much depth available on the defensive side this season.
My credo (" … if you have to have a credo") is to take the best player available with my first pick, including a top QB if he's head and shoulders above the rest of the field. Seems simple, right? Well last season in one IDP draft I had the eighth pick. And for the first time I took the eighth best RB after seven had come off the board. His name … Shaun Alexander. Season over.
If you follow the "best player available" plan for Round 1, I think you have to do the same for Round 2, otherwise you'll end up reaching for a just-out-of-his-prime RB or a No. 1 receiver on a team that can't score.
My third, fourth, and fifth picks will never yield a defensive player, either. In a 10-team league, for example, there are 60 offensive starters. If you pass on one of them and grab a top LB, you're looking at a weekly decision between Darrell Jackson and your neighbor, Frank, for your final starting receiver spot. Unless you're faced with picking the dregs of society to fill out your final starting spot, don't jump to the defensive side just yet. Take a rookie RB. Take the fifth best TE. Both will come in handy at some point in the next 17 weeks and both will have more value over their replacement pick than one of the remaining 100 options on defense.
When you're satisfied with your starting offense, it's time to begin your search for value on both sides of the ball. The overall group or pool of defensive players is greater than on offense, so drafting your starting offense is probably the way to go, then start drafting your defensive players. IDP for show, breakout offensive backups for dough.
Finally, it's time for everyone's favorite off-season discussion topic: IDP Tiers!
Whether your league has a tackles-based or comprehensive scoring system, the supposition is that LB will generally be the highest scoring defenders. But remember, there's value up and down the LB list for '08, so don't be afraid to branch out a bit with your first defensive selection. From this point on, it's value, value, value. Need should take care of itself.
The First Tier – It's a bit different for 2008: Demeco Ryans, Patrick Willis
And … scene! Seriously, that's my first tier for the upcoming season. The two most reliable defensive scorers and tacklers are two of the youngest, most dynamic defensive players in the NFL. They're both top-notch NFL defenders and fantasy scorers with little downside. Both are worth a one-round reach (a Round 6 selection if you just can't justify your final offensive spot with a guy like Reggie Brown).
The First Tier, Part II – Players who have a solid shot to finish among the top 5 at their position at season's end: Kirk Morrison, David Harris, Jon Beason, Brian Urlacher, Jared Allen, Mario Williams, Karlos Dansby.
Morrison is the sure-thing as a tackler and improving pass defender (10 PD, 4 INT last season). Urlacher is a grumpier, dissatisfied almost sure-thing if not for a pesky neck injury and a little more tread on his tires. Still, you'll likely be fine with the Bears MLB that finished as the No. 2 LB in comprehensive and No. 6 LB in tackles-based scoring systems in '07.
Harris and Beason represent the next generation of IDP superstars, and Harris will probably sneak by a few less-seasoned IDP GMs as his final-year numbers belie his true worth entering '08 (Harris started the Jets' final 9 games: 75 solos, 27 assists, 5 sacks, 3 PD, 2 FF, 1 FR). Beason is a solid No. 1 LB if he remains at MLB or moves to his natural WLB spot at some point this year.
Allen and Williams are easily the two best DL on the board (although new Redskins DE Jason Taylor could again prove us all wrong as he nears the end of a Hall of Fame career). Still, think of Allen and Williams as the Antonio Gates and Jason Witten of the defensive side of the ball.
Dansby could join Ryans and Willis in the top tier if he remains healthy for a full season on the inside of the Cardinals' 3-4 scheme, but his track record of missed games and position changes makes me slightly wary of this ranking. He has the most upside of any player in this Tier.
The Second Tier – Each has a flaw, but you're not perfect either, dude: Antonio Cromartie, E.J. Henderson, London Fletcher-Baker, Will Witherspoon, Lofa Tatupu, Paul Posluszny.
Cromartie was part Randy Moss, part Spiderman, and part LeBron James last season. He was simply the best athlete on the field at all times. Don't be alarmed by his paltry tackle total (39 solos) as Cromartie started just eight games last year. His selection before the end of Round 10 represents a shot at greatness, and there are plenty of filler-CB selections at the tail end of the draft if you need to cover your bases.
Henderson is close to the top tier, but there are about 57 playmakers on the Vikings defense this season and I just have a hunch his numbers will plateau a bit after a breakout '07 campaign. Fletcher-Baker has to age at some point, and Witherspoon just seems more comfortable on the outside, but he's still a safe bet to produce nearly 100 solos and 4-5 sacks. Tatupu is a playmaker, leader, and apparently a poor driver, and I consider him an ideal No. 2 LB, but acceptable as your best defender in a deep league.
I think Posluszny will finish in the top 5 in the NFL in total tackles this season, but he started just two games before going on the IR with a broken arm as a rookie last year.
The Third Tier – Either age, injury, or just a bad vibe is attached to each: Adrian Wilson, Jonathan Vilma, Ray Lewis, Shawne Merriman, Sean Jones, Gibril Wilson, Aaron Kampman, Richard Marshall
Wilson and Vilma are coming off season-ending injuries. I'd be stunned if Vilma isn't a top-notch fantasy MLB by season's end, but you might have to endure a couple of average weeks as he gets his feet wet with a new team in the Big Easy. Wilson was a phenomenal athlete before injuring his Achilles last November so there's always a chance he'll lose that step that made him the most explosive S in football.
Lewis is another year older and there's a chance he'll miss a couple of games, but he's still in line for more than 100 total tackles and 15-plus big plays. Just be prepared for the requisite, "I didn't know this was 2001" comment after his selection.
Merriman had an uneven season in '07, but we can probably just chalk that up to that pesky little cup he had to send to the league offices every other week. Look for a top three NFL sack finish for the enhanced Chargers OLB.
Jones feels like a guy you can wait on, but his two-year numbers: 140 solos, 67 assists, 26 PD, and 10 INT, suggest you probably shouldn't. Wilson moves from the Super Bowl Champions to the Oakland Raiders. I doubt I need to elaborate on this warning sign. Still, I love him playing in the box in Oakland right up until he decides it's not that fun losing and decides to begin his offseason in early December.
Panthers CB Richard Marshall didn't start full-time last season. He did, however, finish third among all CB in solo tackles, and tacked on 13 PD, 2 FR, and 3 INT despite just six starts. He's going to be my second CB selection (specifically CB, I might grab one of the aforementioned S). Feel free to jump on the Marshall bandwagon while there's still room.
Note: Marshall is in a battle with veterans Ken Lucas and Chris Gamble for an official starting role.
Kampman's numbers dipped a bit after finishing 2nd in the league in sacks in '06. I'd settle for a 3rd straight season with double-digit sacks, and a return to a 60-solo/25-assist tackle total.
The Fourth Tier – All are good enough to be listed in Tier Three, but I have one major question mark for each: Nick Barnett, Demarcus Ware, D.J. Williams, Barrett Ruud, Justin Tuck, Jason Taylor, Champ Bailey, D'Qwell Jackson, Trent Cole, and Darrelle Revis.
I would put Revis in the third tier based on how good his numbers were last year. If not for the fact that he has a scrub on the other side of him, I'd put him even higher.
Barnett had the best season of his five-year career in '07, but I think he's reached his statistical ceiling, especially with third-year LB A.J. Hawk emerging on the outside. Ruud was the best IDP in football until early November last season when the rigors of a full-time starting gig in the middle of the Bucs' Cover 2 scheme finally caught up with the first-time starter. He likely took the necessary steps this offseason to avoid another second-half slide. Williams is moving back to his original WLB spot after finishing 2nd in the NFL in total tackles last year at MLB, his first season playing the position.
After posting 18 INT from '05-'06, The Champ finally showed he was human at CB, finishing with just three picks last season. He still posted 71 solos and 14 PD, and an INT total under five would be surprising for one of the best fantasy CB of the last 20 years.
DeMarcus Ware has way too much upside to be listed in the Fourth Tier. Of course, 64 solo tackles represents way too low of a number to list him any higher. Ware averages about 1.5 big plays per game and is much more valuable in comprehensive scoring systems. Browns LB D'Qwell Jackson tops my list of undervalued players entering '08 and could finish among the top 10 scorers and top 5-7 tacklers if he can stay healthy for 16 games.
I love Tuck as a full-time player, so other than a new contract, my only concern is the Super Bowl hangover phenomenon, and that's only for the ultra-superstitious.
Taylor is playing with a new team in a new scheme, but he's been a model of consistency and probably feels he has a little to prove after a strange offseason. Don't be surprised if Taylor is again among the top five DL at the end of the season despite the adjustment period in a slightly different defensive position (4-3 LDE).
The Fifth Tier – Don't ignore the LB ranks but it might be time to grab one of the best DL or DB on the board: Osi Umenyiora, A.J. Hawk, Nate Clements, Zach Thomas, Gary Brackett.
Umenyiora isn't consistent enough versus the run to be my No. 1 DL, but he could reach 15 sacks if healthy.
Clements was a solid fantasy player (No. 12 DB in comprehensive leagues) in his first season as a 49er, finishing with 77 solo, 15 PD, and 4 INT. He had nine games with five or more solos but needs to return to the 6-INT range to justify a higher slotting.
Hawk didn't take the big step I expected last season, but I've never been one to learn from past mistakes, so let's forecast a Pro Bowl campaign for the third-year pro in '08. Brackett is a reliable MLB that will rarely hurt you and I just can't let Zach Thomas fall any lower than this, despite a new team and scheme.
Update: 38 IDPs listed to this point.
The Sixth Tier – (Value Picks) These guys should be just as good as 10 of the players drafted above: Kerry Rhodes, Atari Bigby, Patrick Kerney, Terrell Suggs, Terrence McGee, Antonio Pierce, Michael Boley
After perusing my charts, it just occurred to me I've inadvertently listed the final nine players I completely trust for the upcoming season. Rhodes was an IDP lineup-killer last season after plenty of GMs drafted him as their No. 2 overall defender (thanks to a certain jerk IDP analyst). But the Jets' D will be better this season and you can't ignore his three-year totals of 211 solos, 59 assists, 8 sacks, 24 PD, and 10 INT this late in the draft. Rhodes is my bounce-back DB for '08.
Bigby enters his second season as a starter and is ready to join the elite fantasy DB after a solid '07 season and breakout playoff performance versus Seattle. Revis is the best of the myriad of second-year DB on the board and McGee quietly posted one of the best (13-game) seasons at his position last year.
Pierce and Boley illustrate the depth of the LB position this year as we're now about 40 IDP deep. Kerney might be listed too low after a No. 2 finish among DL last season, but he had just three impact starts in his first nine games in '07 and most fantasy owners had cut bait by the time he caught fire, finishing with 11 sacks in his final eight games. There's a chance Kerney will be in a heavier DE rotation this season with third-year vet Darryl Tapp and rookie Lawrence Jackson, but he'll obviously log the bulk of the time.
Cole is every bit the player as the DL listed in the tiers above but he's also part of a heavier D-Line rotation, limiting his final season totals. Suggs, of course, is a special case: a player that is a steal if your league lists him as a DE, but is barely a fantasy starter for the rest of us that play him as a 3-4 LB. But Suggs is in the midst of an ugly holdout and not yet in camp, so monitor that situation before pulling the trigger.
THE MIDDLE ROUNDS
We've covered about 9-10 rounds of an IDP draft. At this point you should have 4-5 defensive players, depending on the size of your league. The key is to mix in a few reliable backups offensively and not focus entirely on defenders simply because you've filled 5-6 offensive spots.
Unless you've landed a starting LB corps, the middle rounds become the perfect opportunity to feed the lifeblood of your fantasy roster.
LB with warts, but could still finish among the elite:
• Chad Greenway – Should take a major step forward now two seasons removed from a season-ending ACL injury.
• Lance Briggs – A steal in the middle rounds; a sucker-bet when everyone's still sober.
• James Harrison – Ditto. Harrison was the breakout LB of 2007, his first season as a starter. That's the same thing I said about Bart Scott in last year's IDP Draft Plan column, and look how that turned out. Draft Harrison, but don't overvalue him.
• Ernie Sims – Solo-tackle machine but I believe you and I had just as many sacks as he did in '07.
• Shaun Phillips – Speaking of sacks … Breakout LB Alert! Unfortunately, this alert comes with a 45-solo warning siren attached.
• Derrick Johnson – Speaking of breakout alerts … Johnson is a big play waiting to happen (posted a career-high 15 in '07) and he'll have a huge September (trust me). Make sure you monitor Weeks 5-7 and consider selling him if he shows signs of decline.
While we're discussing those that could finish among the elite, how about some DB:
• Chris Harris – Top tier tackler and hitter (8 FF). Hands reminiscent of Venus di Milo though.
• Leigh Bodden – A top tier talent joins a new team (Detroit) and a new scheme (Cover 2). He'd have been among my top five CB had he remained in Cleveland, alas, there's a warning sign attached for '08.
• Roman Harper – Better IDP option than NFL player to this point, but he was a coveted player in the offseason and is now almost two years removed from an ACL injury.
• Cedric Griffin and Antoine Winfield – The best CB tackling tandem in the NFL. Now … which one do you draft first?
• Marcus Trufant – Exploded in '04, fell off the face of the fantasy map in '05 and '06, and reclaimed his spot among the elite in '07.
With about 60 IDPs down and about 125 viable options remaining, which players have the best chance of making a difference? I'm glad you asked.
Not among the elite, but I sure do like them: Justin Durant, Angelo Crowell, Mike Peterson, Thomas Howard, Thomas Davis, Freddie Keiaho, Eric Wright, Charles Tillman, Madieu Williams, Deangelo Hall, Aaron Schobel.
Schobel is a bounce-back candidate at DE (finished the season with four impact games in the final five weeks), Tillman rarely disappoints when healthy, providing solid tackle totals and enough big plays, Peterson is a steal here but an injury-risk any higher, and Crowell is the third-best IDP option on a vastly improved Bills D.
The Panthers' Davis has been moved from SLB to WLB. A former collegiate S, Davis has the speed, strength, and skills to succeed in space on the weak side. He'll be matched up with RB in the flat and is a punishing young hitter.
Raiders LB Thomas Howard is one of the best young OLB in the game, but he posted 6 INT last season. You can't count on that every season.
Jaguars LB Justin Durant is my sleeper selection for 2008. The warning sign attached is the presence of three solid LB in Jacksonville in Daryl Smith, Clint Ingram, and the aforementioned Mike Peterson. Look for Durant to win the weak side job, joining Smith and Peterson in the starting lineup, but as of early August, Ingram is the incumbent at WLB.
If Keiaho stays healthy he could be a top 20 LB playing WLB in the Colts Cover 2.
Speaking of staying healthy, here are DBs of note that could pay off in deep leagues and have the upside to outperform the remaining LB options:
• Eric Wright – Was beaten like a drum early, made big plays prior to a Week 11 injury, and improved on a weekly basis. The ideal fantasy CB.
• DeAngelo Hall – He'll have plenty of opportunities playing opposite All-Pro caliber CB Nnamdi Asomugha in Oakland. (Asomugha, by the way, would be a great late-round selection if you're looking for a guy that could explode in comprehensive leagues).
• Kenny Phillips – The former Hurricanes underachiever is making quite an early impression and might be the best rookie IDP option for '08.
Nearing the end of the middle rounds and the pickings are getting slim along the DL. You don't have to reach, because there's not likely to be a run on DL after the top guys are gone. A few to target near Round 15-plus:
• Kyle Vanden Bosch – KVB's motor never stops. Ideal No. 3 DL and he can fill the role as your No. 2.
• Tamba Hali – Time to step up entering his third season as he moves to the RDE spot in KC's 4-3.
• Derrick Burgess – Undervalued player that's 12-15 sacks waiting to happen when healthy.
• Darnell Dockett – Possibly the best DT on the board, but inconsistent through 16 games.
• Will Smith – I usually draft him too high, so this feels about right.
• Mathias Kiwanuka – The hidden gem in the group is actually a versatile SLB who could end up with 10 sacks as a third-down pass rusher. It would be a surprise if Kiwanuka doesn't move to a down (LDE) position (vacated by retired Michael Strahan) in obvious passing situations, with Justin Tuck shifting inside as he did last season.
• Madieu Williams – A case in which a new team can only help. Williams has an injury history, and he may be down for the first few weeks of the season. But you can expect big plays aplenty but not as many downfield tackles on a stacked Vikings D.
(Remember to use these rounds to pull the trigger on the best young RB available, a WR that could emerge as a No. 2, and to get a backup QB if you have a question about your starter. At some point, you'll be down to sediment offensively and you don't want to get stuck with Cedric Benson's breathalyzer as your 3rd RB. There's plenty of IDP talent available).
LATER ROUNDS – Filling out your starting lineup
The X-Factor DE:
• Julius Peppers – I know, I know, you've been down this road before. As long as you don't reach for Peppers, he's worth a later selection. It's a complete gut feeling, but I think Peppers will return to form in '08.
Linebacker:
• David Thornton – Had his best season in a Titans uniform in '07.
• Donnie Edwards – Bad vibes. Edwards is an all-time IDP favorite of mine, and he's proved doubters wrong in the past but injuries might have finally taken a toll.
• Keith Brooking – He'll help you as your No. 4 LB after a move back to the weak side, his natural position.
• Julian Peterson – Risky in tackle-based systems but still a great playmaker.
• Calvin Pace – Would rank about two tiers higher had he stayed in Arizona, so there's no reason not to take a chance here.
Defensive Backs:
• Oshiomogho Atogwe – 39 big plays in his last 32 games.
• Ronde Barber – He'll bounce back.
• Bernard Pollard – If Guru did a cheesy "Who's Next?" spread, he'd be featured.
• LaRon Landry – A potentially dominant run defender in Washington.
• Eric Weddle – Should shine in his first year as a starting Safety for an excellent Chargers defense.
• Jermaine Phillips – Mixes in a few too many dud outings but has 160 solos, 16 PD, 9 FF, and 6 INT over the last two years.
• Michael Griffin – Is it possible to be littered with future stardom?
• Chinedum Ndukwe – The best fantasy DB of Week Sixteen and Seventeen last season and my Summer Sleeper Selection Spectacular, but Ndukwe went down with a knee injury early in camp and should be shelved for a few weeks.
• Bob Sanders – Too low? I'm just trying to make sure you don't reach for a much better NFL than fantasy player.
• Troy Polamalu – Already battling an injury (hamstring). I had Polamalu as a bounce-back candidate as well, but his injury history is troubling.
Defensive Linemen:
• Chris Long – 50-solo rookie with anywhere from 6-9 sacks.
• Gaines Adams – Look for a major leap by mid-season.
• Elvis Dumervil – The last guy left off the IDP Top 100 list just doesn't make enough tackles to rank higher.
No. 4 LB Options
Old Reliable:
• Morlon Greenwood
• Derrick Brooks
• Mike Vrabel – In comprehensive scoring systems only.
Bouncing Back:
• Adalius Thomas
• Keith Bulluck
Breakout Candidates:
• Stewart Bradley
• Kamerion Wimbley
• Manny Lawson
• Gerris Wilkinson
• Niko Koutouvides
• Leon Williams
Breakout Candidates (Rookie Division):
• Keith Rivers (Cin) – Should make an immediate impact on the weak side.
• Jerod Mayo (NE) – Has the inside track to the starting ILB spot next to veteran Tedy Bruschi and Mayo has looked fantastic thus far.
• Jordan Dizon (Det) – Still needs to win a job or have incumbent journeyman LB Paris Lenon move to the strong side.
• Curtis Lofton (Atl) – Should beat out 2nd-year LB Tony Taylor for the MLB role but is just the 3rd-best fantasy LB on his own team.
• Dan Connor (Car) – Slated for backup MLB duty but a guy to jump on if either Jon Beason or WLB Thomas Davis is injured.
No. 4 DB Options
Old Reliable:
• Cortland Finnegan
• Michael Lewis
• Will Demps
• Ike Taylor
• Clinton Hart
Bouncing Back:
• Other than Bailey, Sanders and Polamalu, who were already featured the best candidate is Nnamdi Asomugha
• Yeremiah Bell
• Rashean Mathis
Breakout Candidates:
• Fred Bennett
• Antrel Rolle
• Greg Blue
• Reggie Nelson
• Donte Whitner – (I plan to list him every season until it pans out)
DL Worth a Late Selection:
• Kelly Gregg
• Kevin Williams
• Mike Patterson
• Jovan Haye
• Adewale Ogunleye
• Justin Smith (Versatility doesn't always equal production)
• Trevor Pryce (Injury concern)
• Matt Roth
• Amobi Okoye
• Ray Edwards
• John Abraham (Probably hurt himself while I was writing this)
2008 Fantasy Football Draft Analysis
1. The Blotter Boys
Three wideouts who have bathed in hot water this offseason are now flashpoints for 2008 drafts: Steve Smith, Brandon Marshall, and Marvin Harrison. Smith was drafted as an early-third round pick before his recent two game suspension. It's too early to know how that news plus trade rumors will change his ADP, but it doesn't change Rotoworld's ranking much. Smith fell out of the top tier of wideouts, but he's still ranked as a third-round value ahead of players like Torry Holt and Anquan Boldin. Two fantasy starts from a reserve wideout + Steve Smith still equals elite production. Don't let him slip too far.
Brandon Marshall escaped a worst-case scenario when the NFL Network announced he will be suspended only two games if he undergoes counseling. Recent estimates were as high as 4-8 games. Marshall has also been slipping in drafts, but you aren't going to find a more talented player after the first three rounds.
Marvin Harrison's legal troubles plus his knee injuries caused his stock to plummet in mid-summer drafts, but most of those concerns are fading away. He has practiced well at training camp and we haven't heard a peep about his gun troubles in months. While he's 36, Harrison scored at least ten times for eight straight seasons before last year. I'd bet a fourth or fifth round pick he can score eight this year.
Even Chad Johnson continues to fall deep into the third round because of all the hot air he blew this summer. Many fantasy owners are afraid to gamble on players with "character" problems, but these guys won't change your locker room. We'll take talent and a little anxiety at the right price any day.
2. The Brady Effect
Owners must decide how high they are willing to take a quarterback, specifically the one that threw 50 touchdown passes last season. Early numbers suggest most owners are comfortable grabbing Brady after the top five running backs. Rotoworld has Brady slightly lower because of his previous career stats (season high was 28 touchdowns), and the depth at quarterback.
Your league scoring system makes a huge difference with Brady. He makes a lot more sense in the top five if you get six points per passing touchdown.
The addendum to the Brady Effect is the Moss Effect. Like Brady, Moss was taken in the fourth round a year ago. Now he will be taken earlier than any receiver in years. Owners must decide if he's worth more than a first-round running back. We have Moss ranked higher than Brady.
3. The Second Round Dilemma
2007 was a huge year in the NFL for passing games and it is reflected early in drafts. Peyton Manning and Tony Romo join Tom Brady as quarterbacks taken in the top two rounds. Manning is usually by himself.
Ten wide receivers are getting taken in the top-30 picks. Only eight were last season. Owners must decide in the second and third round whether to grab surer bets at quarterback and wide receiver or pick up a risky running back before they run out.
Rotoworld likes taking a receiver early far more than a quarterback. We give nine receivers a second round grade, with only Willis McGahee breaking up our "run" of tightly bunched WR1s in the second round. Maurice Jones-Drew and Larry Johnson sneak into the end of our second round. Every draft is different, but it's a good year to go RB-WR-WR at the top of drafts depending on who falls to you. We see quarterbacks like Tony Romo, Drew Brees, and Carson Palmer as picks after the first three rounds.
Note: Compete with the best for a $100,000 prize at the NBC Sports National Football Championship. And chat on their message boards with me Tuesday at 2PM.
4. Mid-Round Starting Running Backs
The rise of the passing game and the proliferation of running back committees are pushing starting running backs further down the draft board. Thomas Jones and LenDale White aren't sexy picks, but they are decent bets to hit 300 touches. They aren't going in the top-50 picks.
Matt Forte, Selvin Young, Jonathan Stewart, Julius Jones, Rudi Johnson, and Justin Fargas are likely starting running backs that are falling. There will be quality RB2s and RB3s available in the middle rounds who get touches. That isn't usually the case. We'd take them over likely committee partners such as Willie Parker in the top-30 picks. This is a great year to get two receivers early.
5. The Big Three Tight Ends
As a group, tight ends reached new levels of dominance in 2007. Six topped 125 fantasy points for the first time ever. They weren't just good for their position; they produced like WR2s.
That dominance is showing up in 2008 drafts, although not as dramatically as I imagined. Drafters are taking Antonio Gates, Jason Witten, and Kellen Winslow in the top-50 picks, but the starting point (pick 42) isn't that high. Three more are taken between picks 60-69.
Rotoworld agrees with conventional wisdom that the big three at tight end are heads, shoulders, and hands above the rest. It makes sense: the tight ends should go at the back of the quality WR2s. Since position scarcity devalues tight end somewhat, we'd take Santonio Holmes over Witten. We'd rather have one of the big three in round four than anyone else in round six. The gap is large.
6. Great late tight end value
While the big three are tempting, the unprecedented depth at tight end is making later-round values enticing. Vernon Davis, Todd Heap, and Jeremy Shockey are relatively safe every-week plays that often fall out of the first eight rounds! Owen Daniels, Heath Miller, and Tony Scheffler are rising stars that cost even less. Basically we are going early or late with tight end picks this year, not in the middle. With twelve quality starting options at tight end, there is no need to rush.
A fundamental mistake new fantasy players make is failing to understand position scarcity. Each fantasy team only needs one tight end, and there are plenty to go around.
7. Weak class of QB2s
Running back isn't the only position with great uncertainty this year. There are more quarterback battles than usual, and that creates a shaky QB2 class. Matt Leinart has potential in Arizona, but he may not hold off Kurt Warner. Jake Delhomme is a popular bounce back candidate, but no one knows how he'll respond from elbow surgery.
Philip Rivers, Jeff Garcia, Jon Kitna, and Alex Smith are other veterans facing injury or job-related questions. We don't know who will start for the Jets, Ravens, Bears, Falcons, and Dolphins. Throw in untested starters like Trent Edwards, Brodie Croyle, Tarvaris Jackson, and JaMarcus Russell and there is a shortage of passable QB2s.
We see a large drop-off after our 16th-ranked quarterback. That could be Aaron Rodgers or Marc Bulger, depending on how the Brett Favre situation plays out. Either way, grabbing two quarterbacks in the top-16, especially if you skip one of the top five, will serve owners well. This increases the value of players like David Garrard, Vince Young, and Matt Schaub. It's worth reaching for the QB2 you want.
8. Busts: The Year After
Owners are showing a willingness to take out last year's trash. Many of last year's biggest busts are being taken at expensive prices. This includes Larry Johnson, Deuce McAllister, Rudi Johnson, Hines Ward, Lee Evans, Marvin Harrison, Javon Walker, Marc Bulger, and Ahman Green,
Owners must decide how big a rebound they expect on a case-by-case basis. (Our projections will tell you what we think.) For the most part, we don't think these players will rebound as much as the rest of Fantasy Nation. Harrison and Evans are the biggest exceptions.
9. No Rookie Wideouts
31 NFL teams passed on taking a wide receiver in the first round, and fantasy leaguers don't want them in the first 14 rounds. James Hardy is going as the first rookie receiver off the board, at pick 149, but he's not even guaranteed to start on a poor passing attack. Devin Thomas and Malcolm Kelly are hurt in Washington. Perhaps a rookie wideout will emerge later in the season, but they aren't worth wasting a pick on.
Three wideouts who have bathed in hot water this offseason are now flashpoints for 2008 drafts: Steve Smith, Brandon Marshall, and Marvin Harrison. Smith was drafted as an early-third round pick before his recent two game suspension. It's too early to know how that news plus trade rumors will change his ADP, but it doesn't change Rotoworld's ranking much. Smith fell out of the top tier of wideouts, but he's still ranked as a third-round value ahead of players like Torry Holt and Anquan Boldin. Two fantasy starts from a reserve wideout + Steve Smith still equals elite production. Don't let him slip too far.
Brandon Marshall escaped a worst-case scenario when the NFL Network announced he will be suspended only two games if he undergoes counseling. Recent estimates were as high as 4-8 games. Marshall has also been slipping in drafts, but you aren't going to find a more talented player after the first three rounds.
Marvin Harrison's legal troubles plus his knee injuries caused his stock to plummet in mid-summer drafts, but most of those concerns are fading away. He has practiced well at training camp and we haven't heard a peep about his gun troubles in months. While he's 36, Harrison scored at least ten times for eight straight seasons before last year. I'd bet a fourth or fifth round pick he can score eight this year.
Even Chad Johnson continues to fall deep into the third round because of all the hot air he blew this summer. Many fantasy owners are afraid to gamble on players with "character" problems, but these guys won't change your locker room. We'll take talent and a little anxiety at the right price any day.
2. The Brady Effect
Owners must decide how high they are willing to take a quarterback, specifically the one that threw 50 touchdown passes last season. Early numbers suggest most owners are comfortable grabbing Brady after the top five running backs. Rotoworld has Brady slightly lower because of his previous career stats (season high was 28 touchdowns), and the depth at quarterback.
Your league scoring system makes a huge difference with Brady. He makes a lot more sense in the top five if you get six points per passing touchdown.
The addendum to the Brady Effect is the Moss Effect. Like Brady, Moss was taken in the fourth round a year ago. Now he will be taken earlier than any receiver in years. Owners must decide if he's worth more than a first-round running back. We have Moss ranked higher than Brady.
3. The Second Round Dilemma
2007 was a huge year in the NFL for passing games and it is reflected early in drafts. Peyton Manning and Tony Romo join Tom Brady as quarterbacks taken in the top two rounds. Manning is usually by himself.
Ten wide receivers are getting taken in the top-30 picks. Only eight were last season. Owners must decide in the second and third round whether to grab surer bets at quarterback and wide receiver or pick up a risky running back before they run out.
Rotoworld likes taking a receiver early far more than a quarterback. We give nine receivers a second round grade, with only Willis McGahee breaking up our "run" of tightly bunched WR1s in the second round. Maurice Jones-Drew and Larry Johnson sneak into the end of our second round. Every draft is different, but it's a good year to go RB-WR-WR at the top of drafts depending on who falls to you. We see quarterbacks like Tony Romo, Drew Brees, and Carson Palmer as picks after the first three rounds.
Note: Compete with the best for a $100,000 prize at the NBC Sports National Football Championship. And chat on their message boards with me Tuesday at 2PM.
4. Mid-Round Starting Running Backs
The rise of the passing game and the proliferation of running back committees are pushing starting running backs further down the draft board. Thomas Jones and LenDale White aren't sexy picks, but they are decent bets to hit 300 touches. They aren't going in the top-50 picks.
Matt Forte, Selvin Young, Jonathan Stewart, Julius Jones, Rudi Johnson, and Justin Fargas are likely starting running backs that are falling. There will be quality RB2s and RB3s available in the middle rounds who get touches. That isn't usually the case. We'd take them over likely committee partners such as Willie Parker in the top-30 picks. This is a great year to get two receivers early.
5. The Big Three Tight Ends
As a group, tight ends reached new levels of dominance in 2007. Six topped 125 fantasy points for the first time ever. They weren't just good for their position; they produced like WR2s.
That dominance is showing up in 2008 drafts, although not as dramatically as I imagined. Drafters are taking Antonio Gates, Jason Witten, and Kellen Winslow in the top-50 picks, but the starting point (pick 42) isn't that high. Three more are taken between picks 60-69.
Rotoworld agrees with conventional wisdom that the big three at tight end are heads, shoulders, and hands above the rest. It makes sense: the tight ends should go at the back of the quality WR2s. Since position scarcity devalues tight end somewhat, we'd take Santonio Holmes over Witten. We'd rather have one of the big three in round four than anyone else in round six. The gap is large.
6. Great late tight end value
While the big three are tempting, the unprecedented depth at tight end is making later-round values enticing. Vernon Davis, Todd Heap, and Jeremy Shockey are relatively safe every-week plays that often fall out of the first eight rounds! Owen Daniels, Heath Miller, and Tony Scheffler are rising stars that cost even less. Basically we are going early or late with tight end picks this year, not in the middle. With twelve quality starting options at tight end, there is no need to rush.
A fundamental mistake new fantasy players make is failing to understand position scarcity. Each fantasy team only needs one tight end, and there are plenty to go around.
7. Weak class of QB2s
Running back isn't the only position with great uncertainty this year. There are more quarterback battles than usual, and that creates a shaky QB2 class. Matt Leinart has potential in Arizona, but he may not hold off Kurt Warner. Jake Delhomme is a popular bounce back candidate, but no one knows how he'll respond from elbow surgery.
Philip Rivers, Jeff Garcia, Jon Kitna, and Alex Smith are other veterans facing injury or job-related questions. We don't know who will start for the Jets, Ravens, Bears, Falcons, and Dolphins. Throw in untested starters like Trent Edwards, Brodie Croyle, Tarvaris Jackson, and JaMarcus Russell and there is a shortage of passable QB2s.
We see a large drop-off after our 16th-ranked quarterback. That could be Aaron Rodgers or Marc Bulger, depending on how the Brett Favre situation plays out. Either way, grabbing two quarterbacks in the top-16, especially if you skip one of the top five, will serve owners well. This increases the value of players like David Garrard, Vince Young, and Matt Schaub. It's worth reaching for the QB2 you want.
8. Busts: The Year After
Owners are showing a willingness to take out last year's trash. Many of last year's biggest busts are being taken at expensive prices. This includes Larry Johnson, Deuce McAllister, Rudi Johnson, Hines Ward, Lee Evans, Marvin Harrison, Javon Walker, Marc Bulger, and Ahman Green,
Owners must decide how big a rebound they expect on a case-by-case basis. (Our projections will tell you what we think.) For the most part, we don't think these players will rebound as much as the rest of Fantasy Nation. Harrison and Evans are the biggest exceptions.
9. No Rookie Wideouts
31 NFL teams passed on taking a wide receiver in the first round, and fantasy leaguers don't want them in the first 14 rounds. James Hardy is going as the first rookie receiver off the board, at pick 149, but he's not even guaranteed to start on a poor passing attack. Devin Thomas and Malcolm Kelly are hurt in Washington. Perhaps a rookie wideout will emerge later in the season, but they aren't worth wasting a pick on.
2008 Fantasy Football Week 15 IDP Waiver Pickups Akeem Jordan Is it Bishop or Chillar? Is David Harris Back? Michael Lewis Again or Pollard?
Week 15 IDP Waiver Pickups
Starting with DB Waiver Wire pickups:
FS Jarred Page for the Chiefs vs. San Diego
Raiders Free Safety had a big game vs. San Diego week 15
KC FS Jarrad Page (had 8-1 vs. Den last week) and gets San Diego this week
SS J. Phillips for the Bucs has been on fire since he's been on back with multiple INTs and tackle opportunities. He'll be playing hard once against division foe Atlanta.
SS Michael Lewis vs. Miami
Bryan Scott went off vs. Miami last week with 9 solos & an assist and nothing needs to be said about one of the most elite Strong Safeties (he's on my waiver wire so that's why I list him here on waiver pick-ups)
SS Pollard for KC vs. SD
A strong rivalry, SD trend all years gives up a lot of tackles to the SS and Pollard has been very solid all year.
DB Sleeper of the Week: SS Bryan Scott He has another great start vs NYJ where every SS all year has done well. Scott had 9 tackles last week. (warning: Scott only had 3 tackles last time he played the Jets so he's a boom or bust guy this week) The good news is Buffalo will probably be behind with Losman or an injured Edwards at the helm. So the Jets will be running T. Jones and doing quick passes over the middle. Lots of opportunities for Scott here.
Linebacker Pickups for Week 15:
Paris Lenon this week? At first glance against the Colts, I would say "No". However, Dhani Jones had 9 total tackles against Indy last week and the Lions defense will be on the field a lot. Lenon had his best game of the year last week with 10 total tackles a half sack and 2 forced fumbles against the Vikings. Whether it's Dominic Rhodes or Addai, every team runs on Detroit.
LB R. Jeanty vs. Washinton Redskins should do very well. He has been quietly solid for weeks now and everyone knows the Skins run the ball and despite the Skins latest losing streak, they should be good enough against Cincy not fall behind enough to desert the run game.
Akeem Jordan vs. Cleveland on MNF
This is a bit of a boom or bust play because they may blow out the Browns so badly that Cleveland will abandon the run. However, if you're like me, you love to have players in the MNF game. It makes you feel like you still have a chance if you're behind when the Sunday night games end.
P. Tinoisamoa had 9 solos vs. Arizona last week. He get's Seattle next week and is a nice option as Seattle will be able to stay in the game and run a lot against St. Louis.
Keith Brooking vs Tampa Bay he's been rolling the last couple weeks and has a great matchup against TB in week 15
Linebackers Sleeper of the week: Shanle with 7tkls 2 assist vs. Falcons & 8 tackles the week before gets run first Chicago on Thursday night
Week 15 DTs:
Nose Tackle vs. Jags last week A Adam for Chicago lead the team in tackles from NT with 6-2
DT Richard Seymour gets the Oakland this week. Did you know that Seymour has 6.5 sacks in the last 8 games he's played in. You don't get more consistent production from this position than that. And with the Raiders guaranteed to be trailing this one, Seymour will get sack opportunities in this one.
Week 14 IDP Waiver Pickups
Starting with Sneaky DB pickups:
SS Michael Lewis vs. NYJ
He's available on my waiver wire and will be very solid vs. the Jets between Thomas Jones and Keller, Leon Washington and Coles quick slants.
SS Pollard for KC vs. Den
This is a strong rivalry and Pollard has been quietly solid with 69 tackles on the year.
DB Sleeper of the Week: SS Bryan Scott (Buf)
Linebacker Pickups for Week 14:
Paris Lenon is once again useful going against Minnesota this week. He doesn't put up big numbers, but he'll be a solid anchor with a guaranteed 10 points or so. You need at least 3 strong anchors on your team so that you can take some chances with boom or bust guys in a couple of your slots.
Winborn or Woodyard for Denver? (I asked this question 2 weeks ago)
And the answer is still the same. How about both!!! This is 3 weeks in a row that both hit double digits in tackles. So who do you want going forward? The answer is still Winborn. Woodyard is filling in for DJ Williams who is expected back this week. It has recently been announced that Winborn has earned a starting roll even if Boss Bailey comes back. Nate Webster is also expected back soon and will resume his middle linebacker spot.
Akeem Jordan OLB for Philly faces the Giants this week
He has looked solid since taking over for Omar Gaither 2 weeks ago. The only thing that makes me the slightest bit leary about this call is that I thought Washington OLB Rocky McIntoch would go nuts against the Giants last week and he dropped a big ole stinker getting me only 4 points and causing me to lose this week by a half point. Ouch! (Not to worry, I already clinched a playoff spot as all of you have as well or else you wouldn't be reading a week 14 artcle.) Jordan is a solid sleeper with upside potential this week.
Linebackers Sleeper of the week: Na'il Diggs of Carolina goes up against TB. He had 9 tackles last time he played them and last week both NO OLBs has stronger games than MLB Vilma when they played the Bucs.
Week 13 IDP Waiver Pickups Thanksgiving Special Game by Game Edition
Go to Paris this Thanksgiving!
If there is anything that you can count on this season, it's that Detroit will be on Defense a lot and in all probability they'll be losing. This recipe always bodes well for Linebackers because once teams get ahead, they tend to turn to the run game to grind out the clock.
Thursday, they face a Tennessee team that needs to get their run game confidence and back on track. Although Ernie Sims would usually be the more likely LB in Detroit, he has been injured for over a month now and hasn't had any more than 4 solos during that stretch.
So Paris Lenon is the one you want Thursday in this game.
Seattle at Dallas
FS Ken Hamlin for Dal will be busy as Seattle plays catch up the whole game. They'll be lucky if they're not down by 30 at halftime in this one. (I probably just jinxed Romo. Sorry, Cowboys fans)
Turkey Day night game - Arizona at Philadelphia
Too hard to call, stay away from these players on the Waiver Wire
Philadelphia just got very, very embarassed and are desperate. They could be a dangerous team which makes this game difficult to predict. What will they do against Arizona? There is a ton of pressure on McNabb, on Reid, and people are losing their jobs like Omar Gaither. Akeem Jordan had a nice game in his place against Baltimore, but Arizona is not a running team so stay away this week.
Sunday games (unofficial xmas decoration day)
San Francisco at Buffalo
Another nice one for Takeo Spikes is in store
Michael Lewis would be a great start, but check injury report.
FS Ko Simpson for Buffalo is a sleeper in this one with Shaun Hill throwing a lot to stay in games P.S. I'd think hard and way your options if you have Posluszny. He hasn't exacly been a no brainer these days.
Baltimore at Cincinnati
I'd stay away, even from Dhani Jones. He's had plenty of chances against running teams over the last month. He just seems like he's quit. If you're desperate, a sleeper might be OLB Johnson for the Bengals. He took over for rookie Rivers after his broken jaw and has put up passable numbers. Baltimore does run.
Indianapolis at Cleveland
No definitive waiver wire pickups here. Check your waiver wire for frustrated Bob Sanders owners. If he's there, grab him and stash him, even if he doesn't play this week. Ditto for Keiaho owners. I doubt anyone dropped him while he was injured, but he's back.
Carolina at Green Bay
A.J. Hawk & Chillar for GB could both be on your wire. They're both on mine. I'm leaning toward Chillar for his pass coverage abilities and because DeAngelo is more of an outside runner. Carolina may try a lot of passes in the middle in front of those GB LBs. They have been soft there all year. This gives Chillar more opportunities. (I'm watching AJ Hawk as I write this and he looks slow and confused. He's looking like more of a risk than a reward. We'll see how he finishes tonight. I didn't expect many tackles at MLB vs. the Saints, but he can't even cover the Saint's backup tight ends. )
Miami at St. Louis
Same theory as I used for Detroit above. Another good matchup for OLB Pisa Tinoisamoa
This has nothing to do with waiver wire pickups, but on a personal note, I'm benching Channing Crowder unless Steven Jackson plays. St. Louis will be passing because their always behind so Miami CBs should be looked at if you're desperate for a DB, but I'd stay away if possible.
New Orleans at Tampa Bay
You'd have to be very lucky, but see if any hot-headed owners dropped Vilma over the past couple weeks. Vilma will have another big day.
NY Giants at Washington Redskins will both be playing hard
Definitely Antonio Pierce. He was on my wire last week, but I missed him.
Kiwanuka, Tuck and even Robbins is worth a shot.
See if McIntosh on the wire and Chris Horton too
Atlanta at San Diego
Wilhelm might be the only one you can find on the wire. He will be solid.
Brooking siting against Car. Expect another. Give him a try if you're in a pinch.
Pittsburgh at New England
WOW! How jealous we all are of Mayo owners
Ike Taylor & William Gay & Troy Polamalu (Polamalu on my wire, that's why I mention him here)
Denver at NY Jets
Winborn, Larsen & Woodyard Oh my! Start em, but first choice is Winborn.
NYJ Pace will be a solid pickup for you
Kansas City at Oakland *Strong Rivarly
Boimen has been great, but is he for real? He's been filling in and he'll get another week against a run first team who runs at the OLB. This is his 4th solid game in a row with 9 tackles 3 assists and a forced fumble. I'd say he's one of the better options of the week.
Pollard has also done well from the SS for KC
Chicago at Minnesota
SS Mike Brown got injured early in the game last week so keep an eye on him, but he could be very solid in this one if he plays
Monday night football
Jacksonville at Houston
Adibi did not have 14 tackles again, but did the most with the opportunities he had. He could have a big game against the Jacsksonville run game, but he's a gamble
Justin Durant should be very active Ahman Green is hurt so Houston will not run up the gut as much so avoid MLB Daryl Smith
DE Hayward might be a sneaky start
Start Mathis and Nelson against Sage "Turnover" Rosenfels
Week 12 IDP Waiver Pickups
Starting with Sneaky DB pickups:
This week free safety Renaldo Hill for Miami gets to play against New England for the second time this year and he's known to put up big tackle numbers. The Patriots changed their gameplan for the first half against the Jets last week. They went with a run attack gameplan. So Free Safety Kerry Rhodes of NYJ had lower numbers than expected. He still finished with 4 tackles and a fumble recovery. If no name K0 Simpson can get 7 tackles and 4 assists vs. NE then let's see what Renaldo Hill can do after already seeing this offense once this year. Need some #s R. Hill put up 7 tackles, Atogwe 7 tackles 1 INT & Colts FS Bethea posted 10 solos week 9 against the Pats.
DB Sleeper of the Week: Chris Johnson of Oakland goes against the pass happy Broncos and no one is throwing against Nnamdi Asomugha. He has shutdown everyone this year, including Steve Smith. He'll be on Brandon Marshall this week, but Eddie Royal is a strong second WR and remember that Royal broke onto the scene vs. Oakland the first game of this year. So expect Chris Johnson to be thrown to as much as DeAngelo Hall was. Last week he had 9 solo tackles against Miami.
Speaking of a Safe DB to play this week: SS Mike Brown of the Bears is a very solid player. In the last 3 weeks, has 5 tackles & an INT, then 8 tackles and then 9 tackles. This week he gets the Rams and an INT is a good possibility.
Jonathan Joseph is on Fire! Week 9 he had 15 Total tackles and 2 pass deflections. And last week he had 5 tackles an interception and 3 pass deflections.
Sneaky Linebacker Pickups for Week 12:
Green Bay LB Nick Barnett OUT FOR THE SEASON:
And A.J. Hawk stepped in to have 6 tackles in the first quarter. It looked like it was going to be a monster day, but Green Bay started blowing out Chicago so quickly that the Bears had to switch to the pass. So Hawk ended up only adding 1 assist onto his total for the rest of the day. Hawk gets New Orleans next week who will run just enough to get Hawk at least 10 FF points.
Winborn or Woodyard for Denver?
How about both!!! This is 2 weeks in a row that both hit double digits in tackles. Don't expect the same thing against Oakland next week. That doesn't mean don't play them, but it does mean not to expect double digit numbers. It looks like Winborn is the one you want thus far.
CAR LB Thomas Davis: This wasn't too bad of a call for me last week, huh. How about 10 tackles, 1 assist, .5 sack, 1 Int and 1 pass deflection. That's 27.5 points in my league! How bout an LB who gets the same amount of points as Marion Barber in my PPR league. Heck, he doubled my QBs points (Cutler) this past week.
What is in the water with these Houston LBs this year? Xavier Adibi with 14 tackles and 1 assist. The worst part is he is just filling in for Morlon Greenwood. So unless Greenwood is out again next week, we won't even know if Adibi will play against Cleveland in week 12 where outside LBs go off! Ouch, monitor closely. I scooped him up. Another Diles?
Other Linebackers I've scooped up: Justin Durant of Jacksonville is the most athletic of the bunch and reaping the most benefits of Mike Peterson's supposed benching. I say "supposed" because although Daryl Smith started, Peterson finished with 5 tackles. So the question is, will Daryl Smith roll back over to his OLB spot putting Durant on the bench when Peterson comes in or does Smith stay on the bench and Durant stay in? Durant finished with 8 solos this week.
Lastly: Clint Session of Indy had 18 FF points. I've been watching him all year and next week he gets San Diego where he came alive with 2 INTs last year.
Week 12 DT sleeper of the Week:
Vonnie Holliday for Miami is quietly having a good year and goes into a game against the very sacked Matt Cassel with 3 sacks/8 tackles in the last 2 weeks.
Robert Geathers for the Bengals gets the Pittsburgh Steelers this week fresh off a 3 tackle 1 sack 1 pass deflection game
Ogunleye gets the Rams this week and his tackles have been high. Add a sack to those tackle numbers and this should be a solid week for him.
Starting with DB Waiver Wire pickups:
FS Jarred Page for the Chiefs vs. San Diego
Raiders Free Safety had a big game vs. San Diego week 15
KC FS Jarrad Page (had 8-1 vs. Den last week) and gets San Diego this week
SS J. Phillips for the Bucs has been on fire since he's been on back with multiple INTs and tackle opportunities. He'll be playing hard once against division foe Atlanta.
SS Michael Lewis vs. Miami
Bryan Scott went off vs. Miami last week with 9 solos & an assist and nothing needs to be said about one of the most elite Strong Safeties (he's on my waiver wire so that's why I list him here on waiver pick-ups)
SS Pollard for KC vs. SD
A strong rivalry, SD trend all years gives up a lot of tackles to the SS and Pollard has been very solid all year.
DB Sleeper of the Week: SS Bryan Scott He has another great start vs NYJ where every SS all year has done well. Scott had 9 tackles last week. (warning: Scott only had 3 tackles last time he played the Jets so he's a boom or bust guy this week) The good news is Buffalo will probably be behind with Losman or an injured Edwards at the helm. So the Jets will be running T. Jones and doing quick passes over the middle. Lots of opportunities for Scott here.
Linebacker Pickups for Week 15:
Paris Lenon this week? At first glance against the Colts, I would say "No". However, Dhani Jones had 9 total tackles against Indy last week and the Lions defense will be on the field a lot. Lenon had his best game of the year last week with 10 total tackles a half sack and 2 forced fumbles against the Vikings. Whether it's Dominic Rhodes or Addai, every team runs on Detroit.
LB R. Jeanty vs. Washinton Redskins should do very well. He has been quietly solid for weeks now and everyone knows the Skins run the ball and despite the Skins latest losing streak, they should be good enough against Cincy not fall behind enough to desert the run game.
Akeem Jordan vs. Cleveland on MNF
This is a bit of a boom or bust play because they may blow out the Browns so badly that Cleveland will abandon the run. However, if you're like me, you love to have players in the MNF game. It makes you feel like you still have a chance if you're behind when the Sunday night games end.
P. Tinoisamoa had 9 solos vs. Arizona last week. He get's Seattle next week and is a nice option as Seattle will be able to stay in the game and run a lot against St. Louis.
Keith Brooking vs Tampa Bay he's been rolling the last couple weeks and has a great matchup against TB in week 15
Linebackers Sleeper of the week: Shanle with 7tkls 2 assist vs. Falcons & 8 tackles the week before gets run first Chicago on Thursday night
Week 15 DTs:
Nose Tackle vs. Jags last week A Adam for Chicago lead the team in tackles from NT with 6-2
DT Richard Seymour gets the Oakland this week. Did you know that Seymour has 6.5 sacks in the last 8 games he's played in. You don't get more consistent production from this position than that. And with the Raiders guaranteed to be trailing this one, Seymour will get sack opportunities in this one.
Week 14 IDP Waiver Pickups
Starting with Sneaky DB pickups:
SS Michael Lewis vs. NYJ
He's available on my waiver wire and will be very solid vs. the Jets between Thomas Jones and Keller, Leon Washington and Coles quick slants.
SS Pollard for KC vs. Den
This is a strong rivalry and Pollard has been quietly solid with 69 tackles on the year.
DB Sleeper of the Week: SS Bryan Scott (Buf)
Linebacker Pickups for Week 14:
Paris Lenon is once again useful going against Minnesota this week. He doesn't put up big numbers, but he'll be a solid anchor with a guaranteed 10 points or so. You need at least 3 strong anchors on your team so that you can take some chances with boom or bust guys in a couple of your slots.
Winborn or Woodyard for Denver? (I asked this question 2 weeks ago)
And the answer is still the same. How about both!!! This is 3 weeks in a row that both hit double digits in tackles. So who do you want going forward? The answer is still Winborn. Woodyard is filling in for DJ Williams who is expected back this week. It has recently been announced that Winborn has earned a starting roll even if Boss Bailey comes back. Nate Webster is also expected back soon and will resume his middle linebacker spot.
Akeem Jordan OLB for Philly faces the Giants this week
He has looked solid since taking over for Omar Gaither 2 weeks ago. The only thing that makes me the slightest bit leary about this call is that I thought Washington OLB Rocky McIntoch would go nuts against the Giants last week and he dropped a big ole stinker getting me only 4 points and causing me to lose this week by a half point. Ouch! (Not to worry, I already clinched a playoff spot as all of you have as well or else you wouldn't be reading a week 14 artcle.) Jordan is a solid sleeper with upside potential this week.
Linebackers Sleeper of the week: Na'il Diggs of Carolina goes up against TB. He had 9 tackles last time he played them and last week both NO OLBs has stronger games than MLB Vilma when they played the Bucs.
Week 13 IDP Waiver Pickups Thanksgiving Special Game by Game Edition
Go to Paris this Thanksgiving!
If there is anything that you can count on this season, it's that Detroit will be on Defense a lot and in all probability they'll be losing. This recipe always bodes well for Linebackers because once teams get ahead, they tend to turn to the run game to grind out the clock.
Thursday, they face a Tennessee team that needs to get their run game confidence and back on track. Although Ernie Sims would usually be the more likely LB in Detroit, he has been injured for over a month now and hasn't had any more than 4 solos during that stretch.
So Paris Lenon is the one you want Thursday in this game.
Seattle at Dallas
FS Ken Hamlin for Dal will be busy as Seattle plays catch up the whole game. They'll be lucky if they're not down by 30 at halftime in this one. (I probably just jinxed Romo. Sorry, Cowboys fans)
Turkey Day night game - Arizona at Philadelphia
Too hard to call, stay away from these players on the Waiver Wire
Philadelphia just got very, very embarassed and are desperate. They could be a dangerous team which makes this game difficult to predict. What will they do against Arizona? There is a ton of pressure on McNabb, on Reid, and people are losing their jobs like Omar Gaither. Akeem Jordan had a nice game in his place against Baltimore, but Arizona is not a running team so stay away this week.
Sunday games (unofficial xmas decoration day)
San Francisco at Buffalo
Another nice one for Takeo Spikes is in store
Michael Lewis would be a great start, but check injury report.
FS Ko Simpson for Buffalo is a sleeper in this one with Shaun Hill throwing a lot to stay in games P.S. I'd think hard and way your options if you have Posluszny. He hasn't exacly been a no brainer these days.
Baltimore at Cincinnati
I'd stay away, even from Dhani Jones. He's had plenty of chances against running teams over the last month. He just seems like he's quit. If you're desperate, a sleeper might be OLB Johnson for the Bengals. He took over for rookie Rivers after his broken jaw and has put up passable numbers. Baltimore does run.
Indianapolis at Cleveland
No definitive waiver wire pickups here. Check your waiver wire for frustrated Bob Sanders owners. If he's there, grab him and stash him, even if he doesn't play this week. Ditto for Keiaho owners. I doubt anyone dropped him while he was injured, but he's back.
Carolina at Green Bay
A.J. Hawk & Chillar for GB could both be on your wire. They're both on mine. I'm leaning toward Chillar for his pass coverage abilities and because DeAngelo is more of an outside runner. Carolina may try a lot of passes in the middle in front of those GB LBs. They have been soft there all year. This gives Chillar more opportunities. (I'm watching AJ Hawk as I write this and he looks slow and confused. He's looking like more of a risk than a reward. We'll see how he finishes tonight. I didn't expect many tackles at MLB vs. the Saints, but he can't even cover the Saint's backup tight ends. )
Miami at St. Louis
Same theory as I used for Detroit above. Another good matchup for OLB Pisa Tinoisamoa
This has nothing to do with waiver wire pickups, but on a personal note, I'm benching Channing Crowder unless Steven Jackson plays. St. Louis will be passing because their always behind so Miami CBs should be looked at if you're desperate for a DB, but I'd stay away if possible.
New Orleans at Tampa Bay
You'd have to be very lucky, but see if any hot-headed owners dropped Vilma over the past couple weeks. Vilma will have another big day.
NY Giants at Washington Redskins will both be playing hard
Definitely Antonio Pierce. He was on my wire last week, but I missed him.
Kiwanuka, Tuck and even Robbins is worth a shot.
See if McIntosh on the wire and Chris Horton too
Atlanta at San Diego
Wilhelm might be the only one you can find on the wire. He will be solid.
Brooking siting against Car. Expect another. Give him a try if you're in a pinch.
Pittsburgh at New England
WOW! How jealous we all are of Mayo owners
Ike Taylor & William Gay & Troy Polamalu (Polamalu on my wire, that's why I mention him here)
Denver at NY Jets
Winborn, Larsen & Woodyard Oh my! Start em, but first choice is Winborn.
NYJ Pace will be a solid pickup for you
Kansas City at Oakland *Strong Rivarly
Boimen has been great, but is he for real? He's been filling in and he'll get another week against a run first team who runs at the OLB. This is his 4th solid game in a row with 9 tackles 3 assists and a forced fumble. I'd say he's one of the better options of the week.
Pollard has also done well from the SS for KC
Chicago at Minnesota
SS Mike Brown got injured early in the game last week so keep an eye on him, but he could be very solid in this one if he plays
Monday night football
Jacksonville at Houston
Adibi did not have 14 tackles again, but did the most with the opportunities he had. He could have a big game against the Jacsksonville run game, but he's a gamble
Justin Durant should be very active Ahman Green is hurt so Houston will not run up the gut as much so avoid MLB Daryl Smith
DE Hayward might be a sneaky start
Start Mathis and Nelson against Sage "Turnover" Rosenfels
Week 12 IDP Waiver Pickups
Starting with Sneaky DB pickups:
This week free safety Renaldo Hill for Miami gets to play against New England for the second time this year and he's known to put up big tackle numbers. The Patriots changed their gameplan for the first half against the Jets last week. They went with a run attack gameplan. So Free Safety Kerry Rhodes of NYJ had lower numbers than expected. He still finished with 4 tackles and a fumble recovery. If no name K0 Simpson can get 7 tackles and 4 assists vs. NE then let's see what Renaldo Hill can do after already seeing this offense once this year. Need some #s R. Hill put up 7 tackles, Atogwe 7 tackles 1 INT & Colts FS Bethea posted 10 solos week 9 against the Pats.
DB Sleeper of the Week: Chris Johnson of Oakland goes against the pass happy Broncos and no one is throwing against Nnamdi Asomugha. He has shutdown everyone this year, including Steve Smith. He'll be on Brandon Marshall this week, but Eddie Royal is a strong second WR and remember that Royal broke onto the scene vs. Oakland the first game of this year. So expect Chris Johnson to be thrown to as much as DeAngelo Hall was. Last week he had 9 solo tackles against Miami.
Speaking of a Safe DB to play this week: SS Mike Brown of the Bears is a very solid player. In the last 3 weeks, has 5 tackles & an INT, then 8 tackles and then 9 tackles. This week he gets the Rams and an INT is a good possibility.
Jonathan Joseph is on Fire! Week 9 he had 15 Total tackles and 2 pass deflections. And last week he had 5 tackles an interception and 3 pass deflections.
Sneaky Linebacker Pickups for Week 12:
Green Bay LB Nick Barnett OUT FOR THE SEASON:
And A.J. Hawk stepped in to have 6 tackles in the first quarter. It looked like it was going to be a monster day, but Green Bay started blowing out Chicago so quickly that the Bears had to switch to the pass. So Hawk ended up only adding 1 assist onto his total for the rest of the day. Hawk gets New Orleans next week who will run just enough to get Hawk at least 10 FF points.
Winborn or Woodyard for Denver?
How about both!!! This is 2 weeks in a row that both hit double digits in tackles. Don't expect the same thing against Oakland next week. That doesn't mean don't play them, but it does mean not to expect double digit numbers. It looks like Winborn is the one you want thus far.
CAR LB Thomas Davis: This wasn't too bad of a call for me last week, huh. How about 10 tackles, 1 assist, .5 sack, 1 Int and 1 pass deflection. That's 27.5 points in my league! How bout an LB who gets the same amount of points as Marion Barber in my PPR league. Heck, he doubled my QBs points (Cutler) this past week.
What is in the water with these Houston LBs this year? Xavier Adibi with 14 tackles and 1 assist. The worst part is he is just filling in for Morlon Greenwood. So unless Greenwood is out again next week, we won't even know if Adibi will play against Cleveland in week 12 where outside LBs go off! Ouch, monitor closely. I scooped him up. Another Diles?
Other Linebackers I've scooped up: Justin Durant of Jacksonville is the most athletic of the bunch and reaping the most benefits of Mike Peterson's supposed benching. I say "supposed" because although Daryl Smith started, Peterson finished with 5 tackles. So the question is, will Daryl Smith roll back over to his OLB spot putting Durant on the bench when Peterson comes in or does Smith stay on the bench and Durant stay in? Durant finished with 8 solos this week.
Lastly: Clint Session of Indy had 18 FF points. I've been watching him all year and next week he gets San Diego where he came alive with 2 INTs last year.
Week 12 DT sleeper of the Week:
Vonnie Holliday for Miami is quietly having a good year and goes into a game against the very sacked Matt Cassel with 3 sacks/8 tackles in the last 2 weeks.
Robert Geathers for the Bengals gets the Pittsburgh Steelers this week fresh off a 3 tackle 1 sack 1 pass deflection game
Ogunleye gets the Rams this week and his tackles have been high. Add a sack to those tackle numbers and this should be a solid week for him.
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