Fantasy FanHouse

Cowboys-Eagles Love Fest May Prove We Are Living In a Fantasy World!

Sportz Assassin — Fri, 19 Sep 2008 19:05:00 EST

Filed under: Cowboys, Eagles, NFC East, NFL Fans, Fantasy Football

While I rarely agree with anything ESPN's Bill Simmons says, he did raise an interesting point about Monday night's Cowboys-Eagles game. After all, it was only the most watched cable event ... ever.

Again, it was an extraordinary game. But it wasn't more dramatic or memorable than Baltimore blowing its chance to end New England's undefeated season on a Monday night last December, right? The more I thought about it, I decided the fantasy subplots propelled the Philly-Dallas game to its record numbers. That had to be it.

There were a ton of subplots going in that game. The Eagles and Cowboys may be the NFC's two best teams. Both are fierce NFC East rivals. And there is that whole Terrell Owens-Donovan McNabb thing.

Those all contributed to great numbers of viewers. But fantasy football also brought in a ton of others.

In that game, you had Terrell Owens, Tony Romo, Brian Westbrook, Jason Witten and Marion Barber ... who are all elite fantasy performers. You also had Donovan McNabb who is no slouch himself. Some owners had Patrick Crayton, Desean Jackson, Hank Baskett, Felix Jones, David Akers or Nick Folk. And that doesn't even mention the two defenses who, depsite giving up a lot of points, scored some too.

I know in my top league, I was trailing my game with Westbrook playing on Monday. Another guy was down with T.O. and Crayton going but his opponent still had Folk. Yet another guy was trailing with McNabb playing. And yet another trailed with Romo. All of us were down big heading into that game ... yet we all watched furiously to see which one of those guys gets the points.

Many people had a fantasy stake in this game.

Now no one can argue the impact fantasy football has had on the NFL. We all know fantasy football means more eyes on games we usually didn't feel the need to watch. That isn't up for debate.

The debate is on how it shapes the impact of what we saw. I went to work Tuesday morning and everyone was saying it was the greatest football game they've seen in quite some time. No it wasn't. Was it greater than the Broncos-Chargers game the day before? Or even that ugly Colts comeback over the Vikings? No.

It was so great because many of us had something actually invested in that game. When Desean Jackson prematurely celebrated ... that cost his owners a TD and McNabb's owners a TD. Consequently, Westbrook owners were elated when he got the ball and scored the touchdown instead.

Remember Westbrook? He was the guy that fell to one knee instead of scoring a sure TD during last year's meeting between the two teams. It was a smart move for the Eagles ... but a potential killer for Westbrook's fantasy owners. People still pine over that play even though it had no real meaning in the actual game.

How many of you out there are going to care about the Chiefs-Falcons game on Sunday? You will if you are playing Michael Turner or Larry Johnson on your fantasy team this week.

Cowboys-Eagles Love Fest May Prove We Are Living In a Fantasy World! originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Fri, 19 Sep 2008 19:05:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Never Too Early: Philadelphia Eagles Fantasy Football Preview

Matt Snyder — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 14:00:00 EST

Filed under: Eagles, NFC East, Fantasy Football

Hear that? It's the pitter-patter of fantasy football season approaching. Fantasy FanHouse is here to get you ready by previewing every team from a fantasy perspective.

Meet The ...
Personal nightmare for Donovan McNabb. Not only have the Eagles become the worst team in a loaded NFC East, but he can't stay healthy ... as much of the city of Philadelphia is now turning on him after learning of his shoulder tendinitis in mini-camp following bouts with a torn ACL, sports hernia, and bum ankle in the past few seasons. Oh, and the receivers aren't exactly All-World. Luckily he's got the ever-explosive Brian Westbrook behind him to provide stability to the offense.

The Breakout
It's tough to tag a rookie as a solid breakout candidate. They are just so unpredictable and the hype that comes with them makes them overvalued in so many situations -- I saw Calvin Johnson picked before Roy Williams last season, for example -- but DeSean Jackson is stepping into a good situation for himself here. Reggie Brown has disappointed more often than not in his three seasons, and Kevin Curtis can't be counted on as more than a big-play threat on the outside. We know Andy Reid loves the throw the football, and Donovan can still sling it with the best. Grab Jackson late and reap the rewards by midseason.

The Bust
I hate themes, but it seems like we're headed for an "Eagles' wideouts" one here, no? Yeah. Of the two bust candidates, Curtis has much higher value at this point ... making him the bust. Sure, you'll see a 30+ point fantasy game from him, but will he be in your active lineup that week after the multiple 3-pointers you sat through? That's what he does, and you can't have that out of a top-40 WR. He's not, but he's valued as one in this fantasy pre-season.

The Depth Chart
QB1 - Donovan McNabb
QB2 - Kevin Kolb
RB1 - Brian Westbrook
RB2 - Correll Buckhalter
RB3 - Lorenzo Booker
RB4 - Tony Hunt
WR1 - Reggie Brown
WR2 - Kevin Curtis
WR3 - DeSean Jackson
WR4 - Hank Baskett
WR5 - Jason Avant
WR6 - Greg Lewis
TE1 - L.J. Smith
K - David Akers

The D/ST
This group was loved by many-a-fantasy owner heading into '07, and surely exited the season hated by those same owners. The Eagles checked in at 27th in D/ST fantasy points. Jevon Kearse departed and there weren't any significant additions to the front seven. Thus, you'd expect the 36 sacks to remain relatively realistic as far as expectations go. In the secondary, the Eagles were last in the NFL (tied with the Texans and Steelers) in interceptions in '07, but they have added Asante Samuel to the fold. His six picks last year was more than half the ones the Eagles grabbed on their own. Expect his big-play ability to have an impact, and only the tough division in which they reside prevents a huge bounce-back. They're a low-end backup fantasy D/ST.

The Skinny
Outside of the dynamic Westbrook -- who is easily a top five pick -- the pickings are relatively slim here compared to what the Eagles offense used to provide. McNabb's big-time name recognition will make him overrated to inexperienced players, but the stigma around his recent injury history will make him underrated to many experienced fantasy players. Know your peers, because he's gonna finish as a top ten QB ... not top five. Don't overpay for Brown or Curtis, but they could be helpful as your fourth or fifth WR. Jackson's a good last round-type gamble, and you should ignore L.J. Smith and Akers for the most part.

Never Too Early: Philadelphia Eagles Fantasy Football Preview originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Mon, 07 Jul 2008 14:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Never Too Early: Washington Redskins Fantasy Football Preview

Matt Snyder — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 11:30:00 EST

Filed under: Redskins, NFC East, Fantasy Football

Hear that? It's the pitter-patter of fantasy football season approaching. Fantasy FanHouse is here to get you ready by previewing every team from a fantasy perspective.

Meet The ...
New look offense! Out with Al Saunders and Joe Gibbs and in with Jim Zorn's high-powered west coast offense. The offense Zorn is installing is the one used in Seattle under Mike Holmgren and has made fantasy stars of numerous players through the years, including Brett Favre, Shaun Alexander, and Matt Hasselbeck. This has caused everyone to expect that Clinton Portis -- since he's arguably more talented and much tougher than Alexander -- to become an absolute beast. That's all well and good ... just remember that Portis isn't following Walter Jones and Steve Hutchinson on one side of the line.

The Breakout
Jason Campbell has shown flashes of being a productive QB, but been derailed by injuries and inconsistency. He has plenty of tools and weapons to become a fantasy starter (top 12ish) in this offense. The Skins even tried to overload the receiving corps during the draft by selecting TE Fred Davis and WRs Devin Thomas and Malcolm Kelly with upper round selections. He did throw for 215, 348, 301, and 216 yards in the last four full games before he was injured. Be ready to pounce on Campbell as a quality backup with the chance to become a starter at some point in '08.

The Bust
I'm gonna go with Santana Moss, as I'm counting on the offense to spread the ball around -- other than to load up Portis with touches. Look at the depth the 'Skins drafted ... they obviously want to run guys in and out while utilizing the quick throws of the west coast offense. I'm not saying he's going to suck, but if you are drafting him with the hopes that he's going to be a standout performer you'll be quite disappointed ... 60 catches, 900 yards, and five TDs are his ceiling this year. Expect more? That's why he's listed here.

The Depth Chart
QB1 - Jason Campbell
QB2 - Todd Collins
RB1 - Clinton Portis
RB2 - Ladell Betts
RB3 - Eric Shelton
WR1 - Santana Moss
WR2 - Antwaan Randle-El
WR3 - Devin Thomas
WR4 - Malcolm Kelly
WR5 - Anthony Mix
WR6 - James Thrash
TE1 - Chris Cooley
TE2 - Fred Davis
K - Shaun Suisham

The D/ST
Kinda mediocre here. The Skins were 16th last year in points and didn't make any real adjustments. They do have an experienced nucleus that doesn't have to go through the system change like the offense does (new D-Coordinator Greg Blache was promoted from within). They don't get a ton of sacks or takeaways, and they only scored two times last year. All in all, they are a much better real unit than fantasy. You can use them as a bye week replacement, or when they face an anemic offense; but other than that it's just not that exciting a pick.

The Skinny
Like I said in the intro, this offense has been given a makeover. Hopefully it's not one of those makeovers that's an acquired taste, because there is some seriously explosive potential here for fantasy players. It's possible that Campbell emerges as a top ten QB -- yes, it really is -- with six viable receiving options by year's end (including the two TEs). Thomas, Kelly, and Davis have lots of talent and they can learn from the veteran leadership at their positions provided by Randle-El, Moss, and Cooley.

With Portis making a run at the top five overall, the offense will have an incredible balance by the season's midpoint. I alluded in the intro that I don't think you should overreact about Portis, but he's still gonna be a stud. An overreaction would be to pick him first or second. For now, take Portis as the seventh RB -- we covered the top six here -- Campbell as a sleeper-type backup QB, Cooley as a solid TE1, and let the WRs fall below their perceived value before taking them because of the unknown in this new offense. Still, it's an exciting time for a formerly boring offense.

Never Too Early: Washington Redskins Fantasy Football Preview originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Mon, 07 Jul 2008 11:30:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Never Too Early: Dallas Cowboys Fantasy Football Preview

Matt Snyder — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 09:15:00 EST

Filed under: Cowboys, NFC East, Fantasy Football

Hear that? It's the pitter-patter of fantasy football season approaching. Fantasy FanHouse is here to get you ready by previewing every team from a fantasy perspective.

Meet The ...
Team everyone is sick of hearing about. If not, give it some time. You already have the circus around The Artist Formerly Known as Pac-Man and constant updates on Tony Romo's social life ... mix in the storylines involving my personal least favorite player in the NFL (he wears #81), speculation about the head coaching situation, and anything involving Jerry Jones; and it's a cornucopia of maddening media attention.

The Breakout
Actually, most of the guys on this team are properly rated, but since I have to pick one I'm going with Patrick Crayton. He has been steadily improving since his rookie season in Dallas each year, and exploded once last year (7-184-2 in week 4). With Terry Glenn back in the fold some fantasy owners may downgrade Crayton's value. The thing is, he's still gonna be their second outside option. I like him to be a top-40 wideout for '08. He quietly set career highs in everything last year (50 catches, 697 yards, seven TDs) and will far exceed those.

The Bust
It may just be because I despise everything about him, but I can't move past this category without listing Terrell Owens. The Cowboys were bounced from the playoffs in round 1 last year, so my prediction is that once any sign of adversity hits this squad, T.O.'s attitude goes predictably south. And they'll have adversity. He's ranked as the #2 overall wideout on nearly every draft ranking system. No way in hell do I want him on my team before Reggie Wayne, Braylon Edwards, or Andre Johnson. Draft him at your own peril.

The Depth Chart
QB1 - Tony Romo
QB2 - Brad Johnson
RB1 - Marion Barber
RB2 - Felix Jones
WR1 - T.O.
WR2 - Patrick Crayton
WR3 - Terry Glenn
WR4 - Sam Hurd
TE1 - Jason Witten
K - Nick Folk

The D/ST
The 'Boys D/ST ranked ninth in points last year (again, I'm using my league ... it has a fairly standard scoring system but D/ST points vary greatly from league to league) on the strength of 46 sacks (third in the NFL) and 19 picks (tied for sixth). The group adds the aforementioned Adam Jones along with the smartest player in the league. Hopefully that curbs some of the idiocy emanating from #81's locker. Seriously, though, the two additions are big names but don't do a ton to bolster the fantasy value of the unit as a whole. Zach Thomas is getting up there in years and is more of an anchor than playmaker, while Jones is such a wild card you can't count on a boost at this point. I do expect the DeMarcus Ware-led pass rush to remain stellar and the ballhawking on the outside by Terence Newman and Anthony Henry to continue as well. Depending on your league size and scoring setup, the 'Boys should fall between 10-15 in the D/ST ranks.

The Skinny
Romo, Witten, and Folk are elite performers at their position, while Barber is a first-rounder. If you want an idea of what to expect from the rook in the backfield (Felix Jones), look no further than Julius Jones' numbers from last year. Glenn, Crayton, and the D/ST are also usable more often than not. While they aren't the Colts, this is one loaded fantasy team.

Finally, remember the term "bust" is relative to draft position. T.O. can help your team. I'm simply calling him a bust because I don't believe he'll be a top-two WR this year, and that's where he'll be picked in 99 percent of the drafts out there. Bust does not equal suck.

Never Too Early: Dallas Cowboys Fantasy Football Preview originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Mon, 07 Jul 2008 09:15:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Never Too Early: New York Giants Fantasy Football Preview

Matt Snyder — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 19:30:00 EST

Filed under: NY Giants, NFC East, Fantasy Football

Hear that? It's the pitter-patter of fantasy football season approaching. Fantasy FanHouse is here to get you ready by previewing every team from a fantasy perspective.

Meet The ...
David who slayed Goliath ... and you know how that goes in the world of fantasy football. At least you should. The residue of a strong post-season run by a team almost certainly means several players are going to be overrated the next fantasy season. I'm looking right at you, Thomas Jones. So the question with the Giants is, can you look past the post-season and judge flatly on what you think they'll do in this regular season? Imagine the Giants had lost in the first round at Tampa Bay. Now judge their fantasy players. That should be an accurate rating system. For example, settle down about Eli Manning. Sure, you can believe he's taken a giant (pun unintended, but I'm keeping the word choice) step forward in terms of maturity and taking care of the football. You also should remember that 13 QBs outscored him in fantasy points in '07. His last name doesn't do him any favors either. Hypnotize yourself into believing that Eli Smith lost in the first round to the Bucs. Now do you like him as a top ten QB? Me neither.

The Breakout
Brandon Jacobs ... I already covered him.

The Bust
He doesn't have a ton of value left at this point, but Amani Toomer's days as a usable fantasy option are limited ... and will be over before the midway point of the season. Whether you believe it's going to be Steve Smith, Sinorice Moss, rookie sensation Mario Manningham, or Super Bowl hero David Tyree (the best example of forgetting about the post-season before your fantasy draft ... don't touch him); someone is going to supplant Toomer as the 2nd receiving option during the course of the season. He's 33, so his best days are behind him. Plus, the Giants likely won't feel the need to surround Eli with experienced vets so much anymore now that he's confident. Enter the new wave of Giants wideouts. Exit stage left, Amani.

The Depth Chart
QB1 - Eli Manning
QB2 - David Carr
QB3 - Andre Woodson
RBBC1 - Brandon Jacobs
RBBC2 - Ahmed Bradshaw
RB3 - Derrick Ward
RB4 - Reuben Droughns
WR1 - Plaxico Burress
WR2 - Amani Toomer
WR3 - Steve Smith
WR4 - Sinorice Moss
WR5 - Mario Manningham
WR6 - David Tyree
TE1 - Jeremy Shockey
TE2 - Kevin Boss
K - Lawrence Tynes

The D/ST
Coming off a season in which they were eighth in fantasy points, the Giants aim to improve even further ... BUT ... they lost Michael Strahan. He had nine of the team's league-leading 52 sacks, but it's not just the numbers. The respect given to him by opposing offensive blocking schemes cannot be replaced. The rest of the defense is still quite exciting. Antonio Pierce mans the middle, while Mathias Kiwanuka and Osi Umenyiora will look to keep pressure on the QB, and Sammy Knight was added to anchor the secondary. The sacks will decrease, but the interceptions should increase. This is a top ten unit, so if people overreact to the loss of Strahan you'll get a quality late round steal.

The Skinny
If you can do what I suggested in the intro and not get overly excited about what you saw in the post-season, there are plenty of valuable fantasy players to be had here. They aren't the Colts or Pats, but they do have a top 15 QB, RB, WR, K, and D/ST, along with a host of other characters (when you call them that word, you know I'm including Shockey) that will be helpful from time to time should injuries or bye-weeks hamper your squad. The Champs are balanced, that's for sure.

Never Too Early: New York Giants Fantasy Football Preview originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Wed, 02 Jul 2008 19:30:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Fantasy Spin: Felix Jones The Next Julius?

Will Brinson — Sat, 26 Apr 2008 17:45:00 EST

Filed under: Cowboys, NFC East, NFL Draft, Dallas, Fantasy Football

Fantasy FanHouse will be chiming in throughout the NFL draft with fantasy analysis of each fantasy relevant pick.

The Cowboys, out of the Bill Parcells regime, let Julius Jones go after Marion Barber, III, had become their elite running back. And with good reason. Now, it appears the speedy Felix Jones will be taking his spot as the change-of-pace, home-run type back in the Cowboys offense.

It might be tough for Jones to actually be fantasy relevant next year. Because of MB3's talent, and status as goalline back, Jones will probably only be able to accrue fantasy points for owners in 2008 by breaking off long runs when he's given touches. It still seems likely that he will get at least 10 carries a game though, which could make him valuable. For single league purposes, expect to only draft Jones in the late rounds as a handcuff or upside bench pick, barring a holdout by Barber.

Keeper leagues will be faced with a different quandry though. It seems unlikely that the Cowboys would want to let Barber walk, so Jones may struggle to be really relevant, really quickly. If that's case, meaning Barber stays in Dallas, Jones has to be considered at best the fourth, maybe fifth best fantasy running back option taken so far in the first round (behind Darren McFadden, Jonathan Stewart, Rashard Mendenhall and possibly Chris Johnson) so far.

Fantasy Spin: Felix Jones The Next Julius? originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Sat, 26 Apr 2008 17:45:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Fantasy Alert: Giants' Plaxico Burress and Brandon Jacobs Will Play

Dan Benton — Sun, 07 Oct 2007 11:18:00 EST

Filed under: NY Giants, NFC East, Fantasy Football, NFL Injuries, New York

Although wide receiver Plaxico Burress missed every practice for the second straight week, it does appear that will start this afternoon when the Giants battle the Jets. And despite being at less than 100%, the 6-5 wideout matches up well against a much smaller Jets secondary. Expect him to put up some big time fantasy football numbers today.

In addition to Burress, the Giants will also see the return of running back Brandon Jacobs, who has not played since week one. And while Derrick Ward has been impressive in his absence, Jacobs is expected to receive the bulk of the Giants workload this afternoon.

Finally, the news on Osi Umenyiora does not seem nearly as positive. The defensive end who collected six sacks last week against Philadelphia missed two practices this week, and appears to be a game-time decision.

Fantasy Alert: Giants' Plaxico Burress and Brandon Jacobs Will Play originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Sun, 07 Oct 2007 11:18:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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NFC Injury Report - 9/28/07

Will Brinson — Fri, 28 Sep 2007 01:45:00 EST

Filed under: NFC East, NFC North, NFC South, NFC West, Fantasy Football, Injury Report

After two full days of practice, we still don't know the exact statuses for the players that are injured, but we do know who has and who hasn't been practicing. Here's the breakdown from the NFC, for fantasy purposes, of players that might be affected by injury this weekend:

Arizona Cardinals

Anquan Boldin (hip) - Boldin hasn't practiced either Wednesday or Thursday. The first day was kind of funny in that "ha-ha" kind of way but missing Thursday is pretty disconcerting. He's probably going to be listed as Questionable and you're probably going to have to plan on starting him against the Steelers unless he absolutely gets ruled out.

Atlanta Falcons

DeAngelo Hall (elbow) - He was back to full participation in practice after being limited Wednesday. He's probably pretty teed off about his 100k fine and is likely facing a team imposed suspension. If he misses time for any reason Matt Schaub and Andre Davis see a spike in value.

Carolina Panthers

Jake Delhomme (right elbow) - Delhomme hasn't practiced either Wednesday or Thursday and I don't think he's playing. Get the David Carr bandwagon warmed up.

Chicago Bears

Lance Briggs (Hamstring), Tommie Harris (knee), Charles Tillman (ankle) and Nathan Vasher (groin) all have missed practice Wednesday and Thursday are are likely to be questionable at best come tomorrow afternoon. Adam Archuleta (hand) has been limited in practice both days as well. Suddenly the Bears don't look quite as intimidating, so don't be scared to go with Jon Kitna, Roy Williams or Calvin Johnson depending on who's gonna be missing time.
Adrian Peterson (calf) - AP has been limited both days this week, so expect Cedric Benson to get the full load of carries - should be a monster day for him.

Dallas Cowboys

Terrence Newman (foot) - From Dallas Cowboys.com: "Worked with the second-team defense again and Phillips said he's not sure if he will start this week, despite playing in the dime package last Sunday in Chicago. However, Phillips did say that Newman could return to his punt-return duties this week." At least he's on his way. This Cowboys defense is a pretty nice buy low and has the explosive ability to rack up points and keep opponents shut down.

Detroit Lions

Calvin Johnson (back) - He didn't practice Thursday, so you're gonna have to watch him. This is particularly tricky not only because of the injury but because we don't really know who's gonna be healthy for the Bears either.

Green Bay Packers

Brett Favre (right finger) - Favre was back to full practice after being limited on Wednesday. Green Bay ain't gonna run on Minnesota and Favre has a nice record in the Metrodome the last few years so he makes a nice start this weekend.
Brandon Jackson (shin) - After not being listed Wednesday, Jackson didn't practice Thursday. You want nothing to do with him this weekend against the Vikings.
Greg Jennings (hamstring) - After being limited Wednesday, Jennings didn't practice Thursday. This one is all my fault. I added him off of waivers in my main league (for the third time this year) so it's only natural that he shouldn't be playing.

Minnesota Vikings

Chester Taylor (hip) - Taylor was limited Thursday in practice. He's gonna be splitting the carries anyway when he gets back and Green Bay already shut down LT last week so steer clear.
Tavaris Jackson (goin) - Limited. Don't start him please.
Troy Williamson (hamstring) - Limited. You don't want to start Williamson this week either.

New York Giants

Plaxico Burress (ankle) - Plax hasn't practiced either day this week and will probably be listed as questionable for Sunday. The Eagles secondary is pretty banged up this week so Plax is a great play...if he's gonna go. Supposedly he's seeing a specialist about his nagging ankle injury, so hopefully we'll hear more over the weekend.
Derrick Ward (ankle) - Limited on Thursday after not practicing Wednesday. Assuming Jacobs isn't back, Ward's a pretty nice play as a RB2 this week.
Brandon Jacobs (knee) - Hey-ey! Limited practice on Thursday. And with Ward ailing it doesn't look like he's gonna get totally screwed out of any touches.

Philadelphia Eagles

L.J. Smith (groin) - He's out. Again. Just move on.
Brian Dawkins (neck) and Lito Sheppard (knee) didn't practice either Wednesday or Thursday. Their absence would certainly make Eli Manning and Plaxico Burress more attractive options.
Brian Westbrook (abdomen) hasn't participated either Wednesday or Thursday. He's always dealing with injuries so being held out is no real shock. Still, monitor the situation because this is a pretty nice matchup for a guy coming off a 200 plus yard week.

San Francisco 49ers

Vernon Davis (knee) - He is out, sir.

Seattle Seahawks

Shaun Alexander (wrist) - Full practice both days. Dood is ridiculous. He has a cracked freaking wrist and hasn't missed a beat of practice.

Washington Redskins

No significant injuries.

St. Louis Rams

Marc Bulger (ribs) - He did full practice Wednesday and wasn't on the injury report Thrusday so he should be good to go this weekend, although with seemingly everyone on the Rams kind of injured (but strangely not listed on the team's home page) he might be in for a rough day.
Steven Jackson (groin) - Per request, Jackson is OUT this weekend. Brian Leonard will see the carries in his place and the Rams have said he'll be week to week following the game against Dallas.

NFC Injury Report - 9/28/07 originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Fri, 28 Sep 2007 01:45:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Why Don't You Have an NFL Helmet Cap?

Sportz Assassin — Sun, 23 Sep 2007 00:58:00 EST

Filed under: Redskins, NFC East, NFL Fans, Fantasy Football

Every football season, my wife hooks me up with some new football gear. She gets me some new Redskins shirts, shorts, drawers, watches and even shoes. That's despite the fact that my football obsession causes her to become a 'football widow' each fall.

Well, her purchases means that we get some kooky catalogues sent to our house. We got one today from Harriet Carter, who specializes in quirky gifts. The quirkiest may be the NFL helmet cap, which is pictured. It comes in Redskins, Steelers, Eagles, Bears, Broncos, Cowboys, Patriots, Packers, Ravens, Giants and Jets.

NFL Helmet Cap keeps you warm and cozy as you root for your favorite team. Sporting official team colors and logos, it's the ultimate fan helmet! You can attach the snap-on neck warmer and chin strap or wear "helmet" alone as a hat. Fleece cotton blend is machine washable.

Um, who in the world would buy this? Well, except your grandmother who thinks you'll love it because it's your favorite team and you need to wear something to protect your cute little face in those cold winters. Maybe your wife will buy it for you ... knowing you'll hate it ... yet demand you wear it or it will hurt her feelings.

To be fair, the site has this item in its "just for fun" section ... so they know it's kind-of weird. Still, someone ... somewhere ... thought up this idea and someone else is getting paid to make them. .

My wife did get some cool Redskins logo Reeboks, however.

Why Don't You Have an NFL Helmet Cap? originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Sun, 23 Sep 2007 00:58:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Redskins' Jason Campell's Passing Trick

Sportz Assassin — Tue, 31 Jul 2007 13:22:00 EST

Filed under: Redskins, NFC East, Fantasy Football, Washington, DC

Big ups to Hogs Haven for finding this nugget. Here is Redskins quarterback Jason Campbell ... well ... just watch!

Redskins' Jason Campell's Passing Trick originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Tue, 31 Jul 2007 13:22:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Elias Sports Bureau Change Crazy Play to TD Pass

Enrico Campitelli — Wed, 15 Nov 2006 19:28:00 EST

Filed under: Eagles, NFC East, Fantasy Football

The Elias Sports Bureau has changed the official scoring of the seemingly hook and lateral slash fumble play in which they had previously scored it as a catch by Reggie Brown and a fumble recovery for a TD by Correll Buckhalter. The new scoring says that Brown never made a catch but rather tipped the ball to Buckhalter who made the catch. Officially:

Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Donovan McNabb was credited with an additional touchdown pass against the Washington Redskins last weekend after an analysis by the National Football League's statisticians.
The Elias Sports Bureau, official scorekeepers for the league, reviewed tape of the Nov. 12 game and decided that a second-quarter play involving McNabb, receiver Reggie Brown and running back Correll Buckhalter didn't include a fumble, as officials ruled at the time, Elias researcher Santo Labombarda said.

This surely could have some big time fantasy impact for many players who had McNabb as their starting QB last week and lost by a few points. I suppose it could also affect fantasy players who started Reggie Brown or Correll Buckhalter as well.

Did this happen to any of you fantasy players? How did your league deal with the change in official scoring? Did it change the outcome of any of your fantasy match ups?

I posted a link to the video along with some commentary yesterday.

Elias Sports Bureau Change Crazy Play to TD Pass originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Wed, 15 Nov 2006 19:28:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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What's T.O.'s Value In the Fantasy World Now??

Sportz Assassin — Wed, 27 Sep 2006 16:18:00 EST

Filed under: Cowboys, NFC East, Fantasy Football

I play in a keeper league where you get to keep one quarterback, one running back and one receiver from last year's team. One guy [whose team is called the Holy Smokes] has had Owens since our league began. He left me a voicemail today to chime in on all this with a simple comment: "Owens is f'n crazy."

I'm sure all Terrell Owens fantasy owners feel the same way. While his antics can't affect a fantasy team's chemistry....it can affect the team as a whole. Last year, T.O. owners were bent after wasting a high draft pick on a guy that was suspended most of the season. This year's owners have been bent by an offseason filled with questions and a tough injury early in Week 2. Now, not only do you have to worry about his broken finger....but if he may actually be "f'n crazy."

My fantasy advice is to not worry so much about this incident. If this is all true and he just had a bad reaction to the pills, then the only worry a fantasy owner has is that broken finger. Don't put this incident in your mind when fielding your team. I mean, if you are really worried about this, then drop him so someone else can take him.

Not to be too insensitive when I say this but....as long as he's alive and relatively healthy....he's a good fantasy option.

Remember the hand.

And remember that the only issue that should concern you in this is the fact that [if he is telling the truth] the bad reaction to painkillers could affect his pain threshold while recovering from this injury. I mean, if he can't take the painkillers....obviously, his hand is going to hurt more than if he could. The hand, as everyone should know, is one of the most sensitive body parts and to have pain in your hand is to have pain in your body. I mean, I'm not into reflexology.....but apparently hands are the gateway to the rest of your body. And if his hands are in pain, he's in pain.

Remember the hand. Forget the hospital visit.

What's T.O.'s Value In the Fantasy World Now?? originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Wed, 27 Sep 2006 16:18:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Westbrook Questionable For Niners Game

Enrico Campitelli — Thu, 21 Sep 2006 23:25:00 EST

Filed under: Eagles, NFC East, Fantasy Football, NFL Injuries

As of Thursday evening, Brian Westbrook was listed as questionable for Sunday's game in San Francisco. Westbrook joined Lito Sheppard, Rod Hood, and Mike Bartrum on the sidelines of Thursday's practice. I wouldn't count on much from Westbrook in your fantasy league.

With Westbrook questionable, Correll Buckhalter could get the bulk of the load against the Niners. With they way Andy calls it, that could be a whole 5 carries for the Eagles running back.

Speaking of running backs, the Niners have a rather unheralded young back in Frank Gore who had a career week last week.

The Eagles held Tiki Barber in check last week. Frank Gore is a very different type of running back and the Birds will likely have their hands full with him.

Westbrook Questionable For Niners Game originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Thu, 21 Sep 2006 23:25:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Clinton Portis, Shawn Springs Uncertain for Opener

Michael David Smith — Wed, 06 Sep 2006 08:23:00 EST

Filed under: Redskins, NFC East, Fantasy Football, NFL Injuries

The Redskins still don't know if they'll have running back Clinton Portis and cornerback Shawn Springs available when they open their season against the Minnesota Vikings Monday night. Portis dislocated his shoulder in the preseason opener and hasn't been able to practice since. Springs had abdominal surgery on Aug. 15 and likely won't be back until Week 2 at the earliest.

If Portis sits, Ladell Betts is next on the Redskins' depth chart, although without Portis Joe Gibbs would probably go with a committee approach among Betts, T.J. Duckett and Rock Cartwright. All three of them have had some success in the NFL and could pick up some fantasy points for an owner who grabbed them late in the draft, but none of them is Portis.
Gibbs says he has to see Portis practice before he'll put him in a game. Now, Joe Gibbs is a genius and I'm not, but I don't quite understand that. If Portis can't practice through the weekend but then wakes up Monday morning and says, "Coach, the shoulder feels great. I can go tonight," is Gibbs really going to say, "Sorry, but we're just going to have to sit you because you didn't practice"? I can understand having a rule like that for a high school team, but is it really a wise use of Daniel Snyder's resources to keep the guy with the $50 million contract on the sidelines and give the rock to Ladell Betts instead?

Clinton Portis, Shawn Springs Uncertain for Opener originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Wed, 06 Sep 2006 08:23:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Stallworth to Start at WR Against Texans

Enrico Campitelli — Mon, 04 Sep 2006 15:04:00 EST

Filed under: Eagles, NFC East, Fantasy Football

Andy Reid is throwing newly acquired Donte Stallworth right into the starting line up for Sundays season opener against the Texans. Stallworth obviously has plenty of NFL experience but has had a limited time to learn the Eagles scheme. Andy said he will keep the play calls to basic routes.

It's great to see that Andy thinks highly enough of Stallworth after only a week to get him in as a starter. Donte so far hasn't lived up to the hype of being a troublesome player, in fact he seems to have a great attitude:

"It's his [Reid] decision. He's the guy that's running the ship. He's the captain," Stallworth said. "I'm just a worker. Whatever he tells me to do, I have to do. I'm excited.

Also noteworthy is the fact that Lito or Westbrook could return punts in Reno Mahe's absence if he can't go.

Stallworth to Start at WR Against Texans originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Mon, 04 Sep 2006 15:04:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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NFC EAST: Fantasy Storylines

Sportz Assassin — Fri, 01 Sep 2006 01:56:00 EST

Filed under: NFC East, Fantasy Football

DALLAS COWBOYS: Dallas has a few major fantasy story lines. First, how will Terrell Owens fit it?? So far, he's been a huge distraction to the team and what they are trying to do. Of course, in fantasyland, we don't have to worry about chemistry - just stats. But if Owens can't get on the same page as Bill Parcells, he could end up suffering on that stat sheet. I, personally, think that Owens will be fine and that he will have the big year that people are predicting

There also seems to be some rumblings at the QB position. Drew Bledsoe is the veteran with all the experience and success to give the team the best chance to win. But dude is a statue in the backfield and is susceptible to getting nailed. So does he have a short leash??? Possibly. Tony Romo has played well in the preseason too and has is much more mobile [he also signed a one-year extension]. I feel that despite all the smoke, Bledsoe still is the guy. Despite his shortcomings, Bledsoe is experienced and lacks the learning curve that Romo may ultimately have. With T.O. to throw to, Bledsoe should have a good fantasy season.

Third is the running back situation. Look, we all know that Julius Jones is the starter and Marion Barber the backup. However, will Jones end up miss games with some sort of injury again?? History says yes. I think the injuries knock Jones back a bit down the fantasy totem pole....but he still can be a very good fantasy back. If you can, try to handcuff Jones with Barber.

WASHINGTON REDSKINS: Health is the main concern in DC. Clinton Portis separated his shoulder and probably will miss a few games. Ladell Betts has also missed time...which prompted the team to trade for TJ Duckett. So who plays?? Most likely all do....but that means they all cut into each other's fantasy value. Last season, Portis was the main back but Betts got a lot of touches as well. With Duckett there, Betts may lose a lot of field time and Portis may lose out on goal line opportunities. And until Portis gets back, who knows who gets the bulk of the carries. Very frustrating to fantasy owners.

The passing game doesn't have those injury problems....but does suffer from an identity crisis. With new offensive coordinator Al Saunders running the show, the passing game has yet to show it's true strength. And who knows how this will pull? Will the Skins rely on the run game first until the passing attack gets settled....or will they try to move the ball in the air while Portis is on the mend? Add in there the fact that Mark Brunell looks older than ever....and this could be a disappointing area for the Skins.

So could the defense. It is a very tough defense against the pass...and is decent against the run. But they don't create turnovers at all and have seen the injury bug bite them as well. The good sign is the fact that they have a bunch of guys who can return punts and kicks for them....so the special teams could cancel out the defensive issues.

NEW YORK GIANTS: There really isn't too much concern here. The only questions are (1) how much of an improvement will Eli Manning make; (2) will Tiki Barber finally wear out ala Curtis Martin; (3) can Jeremy Shockey stay healthy; (4) can the defense, which was murdered with injuries last year, bounce back?? Those aren't really bad questions at all....seeing as they don't really predict a demise amongst any of their fantasy stars.

PHILADELPHIA EAGLES: Easily, the biggest question people have in Philly is how well will Donovan McNabb play?? There is no Terrell Owens and he's coming off an injury riddled 2005. Is he still a fantasy stud??

Maybe. It depends on the health of Brian Westbrook, who is McNabb's top receiver, and how well Donte Stallworth picks up the system. The addition of Stallworth gives the Eagles a deep pool of WRs....albeit one without stars. If these guys can step up, McNabb can have a great year.

Of course, Westbrook is a key. He can do so many things all over the field and is McNabb's top target. However, the Eagles aren't committed to running the ball....and Westbrook isn't the traditional "running" back. He could lose red zone touches to Ryan Moats.

NFC EAST: Fantasy Storylines originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Fri, 01 Sep 2006 01:56:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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