Move over, Sexy Rexy.
You are no longer the most bipolar quarterbck in the NFL, Rex Grossman.
Last year, your bouncing back and forth between QB ratings of 100-plus and QB ratings of 20-or-less was pretty nauseating.
But this year, you've just been consistently bad.
Philip Rivers, on the other hand...now there's a roller coaster ride.
San Diego's third-year QB has posted four games with 100-plus QB ratings, including a near-perfect 151.4 against Denver in Week 5.
He also has three performaces under a QB rating of 50, including a season-low 30.6 against Indianapolis in Week 10.
And then he has everything in between.
This translates into the most untrustworthy fantasy QB in the league. He's like that smoking-hot girl at the bar that acts like she loves you on Fridays and won't speak to you any other day of the week.
Actually, at least she's a little more consistent.
Bottom line: play Philip Rivers at your own risk.
He could be the equivalent of a night to remember, or you could be going home alone.
Tuesday, December 4, 2007
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
Many happy returns
Almost every fantasy football owner has been faced with the dilemma:
Is it worth it to start a guy who only gets points from kick and/or punt returns?
Kansas City's Dante Hall, a wide receiver, was the first to present this question to fantasy owners.
Hall would catch two or three passes a game, but his only real value came in the form of returns - he picked up 12 return touchdowns from 2002-2007.
But it always seemed too much of a crap shoot to start a guy who may take two to the house or may not touch the ball once in a game.
Well, we may have just found our exception to that theory.
Bears return man Devin Hester has become such a dominant return man (10touchdown returns in his 27 career games) that starting him on your fantasy team might not be such a bad decision.
Hester has posted 62 fantasy points this season, in contrast to starting wide receivers including Calvin Johnson, Derrick Mason and Hines Ward, who get started weekly in most leagues.
If you play in a league with 10 or more teams, look into picking up Hester.
He may not touch the ball that often, but when he does he's as good a threat to score as any player - at any position - in the league.
Is it worth it to start a guy who only gets points from kick and/or punt returns?
Kansas City's Dante Hall, a wide receiver, was the first to present this question to fantasy owners.
Hall would catch two or three passes a game, but his only real value came in the form of returns - he picked up 12 return touchdowns from 2002-2007.
But it always seemed too much of a crap shoot to start a guy who may take two to the house or may not touch the ball once in a game.
Well, we may have just found our exception to that theory.
Bears return man Devin Hester has become such a dominant return man (10touchdown returns in his 27 career games) that starting him on your fantasy team might not be such a bad decision.
Hester has posted 62 fantasy points this season, in contrast to starting wide receivers including Calvin Johnson, Derrick Mason and Hines Ward, who get started weekly in most leagues.
If you play in a league with 10 or more teams, look into picking up Hester.
He may not touch the ball that often, but when he does he's as good a threat to score as any player - at any position - in the league.
Thursday, November 15, 2007
Tricks of the trade
Next time you log on to your fantasy football league page, you're likely to see the following words pasted across the top:
"Trade deadline: Friday, Nov. 16."
Most league's trade deadlines are this weekend, which means you've got only a few more chances to make some deals happen.
Trades can be a scary prospect for many fantasy owners.
Is it worth letting Chad Johnson go to grab Maurice Jones-Drew and the Chicago defense?
Should you send Drew Brees packing for Marc Bulger and a solid number two running back?
Here's Andy Behren's advice for trade deadlines.
Remember that standing pat and not making any moves may end up paying off, but it may also leave you thinking "what if" the rest of the season.
Don't trade any team MVP's off, but don't be afraid to make a move.
The risk-takers are often the ones that wind up in the playoffs.
"Trade deadline: Friday, Nov. 16."
Most league's trade deadlines are this weekend, which means you've got only a few more chances to make some deals happen.
Trades can be a scary prospect for many fantasy owners.
Is it worth letting Chad Johnson go to grab Maurice Jones-Drew and the Chicago defense?
Should you send Drew Brees packing for Marc Bulger and a solid number two running back?
Here's Andy Behren's advice for trade deadlines.
Remember that standing pat and not making any moves may end up paying off, but it may also leave you thinking "what if" the rest of the season.
Don't trade any team MVP's off, but don't be afraid to make a move.
The risk-takers are often the ones that wind up in the playoffs.
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
Feeling defensive
Colorado Rockies shortstop Troy Tulowitzki fell two points - two points - short of being the National League Rookie of the Year.
Instead, the honor went to Brewers third baseman Ryan Braun.
Honestly, with east coast/west coast sports media bias, I never argued that Tulo would be the ROY, simply that he SHOULD be.
And can anyone disagree? He led ALL MAJOR LEAGUE shortstops in fielding percentage (.987) this season.
He set a MLB RECORD for chances (834)as a rookie and had only ELEVEN errors.
He had the 13th ever UNASSISTED TRIPLE PLAY early in the season.
He also had impressive offensive stats. But because Braun played in fewer games, his offensive numbers are SLIGHTLY more impressive.
But Tulo's defensive numbers are SIGNIFICANTLY more impressive. Braun had only 246 total chances this year and committed 26 errors!! 26!
Factor in the fact that Tulo helped his team to a playoff berth and Braun's defensive blunders aided in the Brew Crew missing the playoffs, and you've got a strong advantage for Troy.
I know, I may be biased, but I watched Tulowitzki become the heart and soul of the Rockies this season. I have not heard that said about Ryan Braun.
Instead, the honor went to Brewers third baseman Ryan Braun.
Honestly, with east coast/west coast sports media bias, I never argued that Tulo would be the ROY, simply that he SHOULD be.
And can anyone disagree? He led ALL MAJOR LEAGUE shortstops in fielding percentage (.987) this season.
He set a MLB RECORD for chances (834)as a rookie and had only ELEVEN errors.
He had the 13th ever UNASSISTED TRIPLE PLAY early in the season.
He also had impressive offensive stats. But because Braun played in fewer games, his offensive numbers are SLIGHTLY more impressive.
But Tulo's defensive numbers are SIGNIFICANTLY more impressive. Braun had only 246 total chances this year and committed 26 errors!! 26!
Factor in the fact that Tulo helped his team to a playoff berth and Braun's defensive blunders aided in the Brew Crew missing the playoffs, and you've got a strong advantage for Troy.
I know, I may be biased, but I watched Tulowitzki become the heart and soul of the Rockies this season. I have not heard that said about Ryan Braun.
Wednesday, November 7, 2007
Go see your Priest
When I drafted Larry Johnson back in August, I immediately heard from many of my fellow fantasy footballers.
The message was the same from each of them.
"Dude, the guy carried 416 times last year, he's going to get injured this year by Week 5!"
Well he showed you, didn't he. He didn't get injured until Week 9!
That's right, four extra weeks on what has been a completely disappointing season for L.J. But I'm not bitter.
Maybe I should have listened to my friends and not the beverage I may or may not have been consuming during the draft in Las Vegas.
Nonetheless, this brings us to the pick-up of the week in fantasy football - Priest Holmes.
If you have not already done so, check his availability stat. Remember, this is a guy who set the NFL single-season touchdown record just four years ago (though it's already been broken - twice). He's a baller.
And with LJ out for at least two weeks, Holmes will carry the load for the Chiefs, and he'll start this week agaisnt Denver - the league's worst rush defense.
If Holmes is gone - and chances are good he is - here is Yahoo's remaining top pick-ups for Week 10.
The message was the same from each of them.
"Dude, the guy carried 416 times last year, he's going to get injured this year by Week 5!"
Well he showed you, didn't he. He didn't get injured until Week 9!
That's right, four extra weeks on what has been a completely disappointing season for L.J. But I'm not bitter.
Maybe I should have listened to my friends and not the beverage I may or may not have been consuming during the draft in Las Vegas.
Nonetheless, this brings us to the pick-up of the week in fantasy football - Priest Holmes.
If you have not already done so, check his availability stat. Remember, this is a guy who set the NFL single-season touchdown record just four years ago (though it's already been broken - twice). He's a baller.
And with LJ out for at least two weeks, Holmes will carry the load for the Chiefs, and he'll start this week agaisnt Denver - the league's worst rush defense.
If Holmes is gone - and chances are good he is - here is Yahoo's remaining top pick-ups for Week 10.
Tuesday, November 6, 2007
An A(P) for effort
Adrian Peterson is my hero.
Yes, I may be biased, considering he's on my fantasy team and got me a whopping 46 points on Sunday.
But the dude's a flat-out stud.
Read this story in the Dallas Morning News and you'll know what I mean.
The guy's mom dies when he's a kid. His dad gets involved with drugs and spends most of his son's lifetime in jail.
When his dad finally gets out to see him play a college game at Oklahoma for the first time, Peteron breaks his collarbone.
Then "AP" loses his brother in February.And, due to injury concerns, the guy slides to the seventh pick in the NFL draft in April.
That means there's six teams out there right now saying one thing:
Oops.
Not to mention the other nine members of my fantasy league, who let AP drift to the seventh round, where I picked him up.
Through nine weeks, Peterson is the leading fantasy running back and has already elevated himself as one of the elite backs in the NFL.
It's hard not to root for a guy who's been through so much.I suppose it's even easier to do when he gets your fantasy team 46 points.
Did I mention that, already?
Yes, I may be biased, considering he's on my fantasy team and got me a whopping 46 points on Sunday.
But the dude's a flat-out stud.
Read this story in the Dallas Morning News and you'll know what I mean.
The guy's mom dies when he's a kid. His dad gets involved with drugs and spends most of his son's lifetime in jail.
When his dad finally gets out to see him play a college game at Oklahoma for the first time, Peteron breaks his collarbone.
Then "AP" loses his brother in February.And, due to injury concerns, the guy slides to the seventh pick in the NFL draft in April.
That means there's six teams out there right now saying one thing:
Oops.
Not to mention the other nine members of my fantasy league, who let AP drift to the seventh round, where I picked him up.
Through nine weeks, Peterson is the leading fantasy running back and has already elevated himself as one of the elite backs in the NFL.
It's hard not to root for a guy who's been through so much.I suppose it's even easier to do when he gets your fantasy team 46 points.
Did I mention that, already?
Thursday, November 1, 2007
The Great Debate
This Sunday's game between the New England Patriots and the Indianapolis Colts is being labeled as one of the biggest regular season games in NFL history.
There are many factors that make this game so intriguing.
For one, the coaches are two completeley different people with completely different styles.
For two, the Colts and Pats have been the two most successful NFL teams over the past decade.
For three, the Colts' win over the Pats in the AFC title game last season was the first time anyone had been able to shut down New England's dynasty and go on to win a Super Bowl of their own.
But the most intriguing part of this "rivalry" is the quarterback matchup of Tom Brady and Peyton Manning.
Who is the better quarterback? Who will go down as the best historically? Who has the best arm? Who has the best commercials?
They are all interesting questions. But let's look and see which is the better fantasy quarterback.
Because really, that's all that matters.
Here are their career fantasy-centered stats:
Tom Brady: 104 games, 2,094 completions, 23,995 yards, 230.7 yards per game, 177 touchdowns, 80 interceptions.
Peyton Manning: 151 games, 3,283 completions, 39,419 yards, 261.1 yards per game, 288 touchdowns, 142 interceptions.
Factoring in the fantasy rules my league applies, Tom Brady has amassed 1,701 fantasy points in his career, averaging out to 16.36 fantasy points per game.
Peyton Manning has a career total of 2,757 fantasy points, averaging to 18.26 points per game.
The numbers have spoken. Peyton Manning is the greater fantasy football quarterback.
The Hall of Fame needs no other proof.
For the record, I've got the Pats beating the Colts 31-27 Sunday.
There are many factors that make this game so intriguing.
For one, the coaches are two completeley different people with completely different styles.
For two, the Colts and Pats have been the two most successful NFL teams over the past decade.
For three, the Colts' win over the Pats in the AFC title game last season was the first time anyone had been able to shut down New England's dynasty and go on to win a Super Bowl of their own.
But the most intriguing part of this "rivalry" is the quarterback matchup of Tom Brady and Peyton Manning.
Who is the better quarterback? Who will go down as the best historically? Who has the best arm? Who has the best commercials?
They are all interesting questions. But let's look and see which is the better fantasy quarterback.
Because really, that's all that matters.
Here are their career fantasy-centered stats:
Tom Brady: 104 games, 2,094 completions, 23,995 yards, 230.7 yards per game, 177 touchdowns, 80 interceptions.
Peyton Manning: 151 games, 3,283 completions, 39,419 yards, 261.1 yards per game, 288 touchdowns, 142 interceptions.
Factoring in the fantasy rules my league applies, Tom Brady has amassed 1,701 fantasy points in his career, averaging out to 16.36 fantasy points per game.
Peyton Manning has a career total of 2,757 fantasy points, averaging to 18.26 points per game.
The numbers have spoken. Peyton Manning is the greater fantasy football quarterback.
The Hall of Fame needs no other proof.
For the record, I've got the Pats beating the Colts 31-27 Sunday.
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
There's only one October!
Dane Cook has me so pumped for the World Series.
Or maybe it's the fact that my childhood team, the Colorado Rockies, is in the fall classic for the first time in franchise history.
But even if it wasn't my favorite professional sports team playing for a world title (and it is, if I didn't mention that), I'd still be watching.
Here are the top 5, Cook-less reasons for watching the 2007 World Series:
5. It's not going to be on TBS: Rockies fans have endured through two series on the "Superstation," whose production of postseason baseball made my cell phone videos look Emmy-worthy. Fox never sounded so good.
4. Josh Beckett vs. Jeff Francis: Beckett may be one of the greatest postseason pitchers ever already in his career. Francis has emerged as the Rockies' true ace. Game 1 will be a can't-miss affair.
3. The Old meets the New: Everyone's heard of David Ortiz and Manny Ramirez. But numbers-wise they are no longer far ahead of Rockies' outfielder Matt Holliday. Troy Tulowitzki is also emerging as a superstar at short stop.
2. Destiny vs. Dynasty - The Rockies, winners of 21 of their last 22, have made one of the greatest postseason runs in sports history. Can the magic last or will the Red Sox win their second Series in three years?
1. There's only one October - Not two, not eight, just one. I think Cook would be very upset if you missed this - just a feeling.
And for the record, I've got the Rox over the Sox in 7.
Go Rockies.
Or maybe it's the fact that my childhood team, the Colorado Rockies, is in the fall classic for the first time in franchise history.
But even if it wasn't my favorite professional sports team playing for a world title (and it is, if I didn't mention that), I'd still be watching.
Here are the top 5, Cook-less reasons for watching the 2007 World Series:
5. It's not going to be on TBS: Rockies fans have endured through two series on the "Superstation," whose production of postseason baseball made my cell phone videos look Emmy-worthy. Fox never sounded so good.
4. Josh Beckett vs. Jeff Francis: Beckett may be one of the greatest postseason pitchers ever already in his career. Francis has emerged as the Rockies' true ace. Game 1 will be a can't-miss affair.
3. The Old meets the New: Everyone's heard of David Ortiz and Manny Ramirez. But numbers-wise they are no longer far ahead of Rockies' outfielder Matt Holliday. Troy Tulowitzki is also emerging as a superstar at short stop.
2. Destiny vs. Dynasty - The Rockies, winners of 21 of their last 22, have made one of the greatest postseason runs in sports history. Can the magic last or will the Red Sox win their second Series in three years?
1. There's only one October - Not two, not eight, just one. I think Cook would be very upset if you missed this - just a feeling.
And for the record, I've got the Rox over the Sox in 7.
Go Rockies.
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
Mid-Season Awards
As week eight of the NFLseason wrapped up tonight with a fantastic loss for the Denver Broncos, it is time for the mid-season fantasy awards.
Let's go position-by-position and honor the players who have shown true excellence at their position.
We'll start with the MVP's at each position for the first half of the fantasy football season and then throw in a few extras at the end.
Quarterback: Tom Brady, New England - No argument here. Brady's 259 fantasy points this season in my league is 105 more than the nearest player of any position (Tony Romo, 155).
Running Back: LaDainian Tomlinson, San Diego - The number one projected player in most fantasy drafts has - amazingly enough - gotten off to a slow start, and still picked up 845 total yards and 8 TD's.
Wide Receiver: Randy Moss, New England - As much as I'd like to give to just about anyone else, Moss' numbers don't lie: 779 yards, 11 TD's, 115 fantasy points. He's still a jerk, though.
Tight End: Dallas Clark, Indianapolis - Clark not only has 388 yards and 6 TD's - the most of any tight end - he also has 14 rushing yards. For a tight end, that's 14 more than you'd expect.
Kicker: Kris Brown, Houston - Brown has more fantasy points than any other kicker (76), and has 11 makes over 30 yards, including five over 50 yards. Impressive.
Defense: Minnesota - I must disclose my bias here: the Vikings are my defense. But they deserve this, with just 131 points allowed, 16 turnovers, and a league-best 4 defensive touchdowns.
Rookie of the Year: Adrian Peterson, Minnesota RB - A.P. leads all NFL backs with 740 rush yards, plus his 118 fantasy points ranks second only to Tomlinson.
Comeback Player of the Year: Ben Roethlisberger, Pittsburgh QB - Going unselected in most drafts, Big Ben has bounced back in a big way: 1,533 yards and 15 TD's, six interceptions.
Biggest Disappointment: Lee Evans, WR Buffalo - Honestly, I thought Evans was the biggest sleeper at the position heading into the season. Seven games in and he has just one TD.
Let's go position-by-position and honor the players who have shown true excellence at their position.
We'll start with the MVP's at each position for the first half of the fantasy football season and then throw in a few extras at the end.
Quarterback: Tom Brady, New England - No argument here. Brady's 259 fantasy points this season in my league is 105 more than the nearest player of any position (Tony Romo, 155).
Running Back: LaDainian Tomlinson, San Diego - The number one projected player in most fantasy drafts has - amazingly enough - gotten off to a slow start, and still picked up 845 total yards and 8 TD's.
Wide Receiver: Randy Moss, New England - As much as I'd like to give to just about anyone else, Moss' numbers don't lie: 779 yards, 11 TD's, 115 fantasy points. He's still a jerk, though.
Tight End: Dallas Clark, Indianapolis - Clark not only has 388 yards and 6 TD's - the most of any tight end - he also has 14 rushing yards. For a tight end, that's 14 more than you'd expect.
Kicker: Kris Brown, Houston - Brown has more fantasy points than any other kicker (76), and has 11 makes over 30 yards, including five over 50 yards. Impressive.
Defense: Minnesota - I must disclose my bias here: the Vikings are my defense. But they deserve this, with just 131 points allowed, 16 turnovers, and a league-best 4 defensive touchdowns.
Rookie of the Year: Adrian Peterson, Minnesota RB - A.P. leads all NFL backs with 740 rush yards, plus his 118 fantasy points ranks second only to Tomlinson.
Comeback Player of the Year: Ben Roethlisberger, Pittsburgh QB - Going unselected in most drafts, Big Ben has bounced back in a big way: 1,533 yards and 15 TD's, six interceptions.
Biggest Disappointment: Lee Evans, WR Buffalo - Honestly, I thought Evans was the biggest sleeper at the position heading into the season. Seven games in and he has just one TD.
Tailgate Trades
With the Rockies in the World Series, college and pro football in full swing, and the new season of Dancing With the Stars going strong, it is likely you will be spending some quality guy time soon.
And quality guy team inevitably includes a few brews.
That's a good thing normally, but as Brad Evans from Yahoo Fantasy Sports writes, "inevitably, hanging out for ten-plus hours with owners from my local 12-team keeper league will lead to numerous trade discussions."
This can be a good thing, but it could also be dangerous. Here's Evans' advice for discussing trades while consuming adult beverages.
My favorite part:
"Have an attitude that mixes the hubris of Bill Belichick with the tearful compassion of Dick Vermeil." Good luck with that.
By the way, my money players for Week 8 include Ben Roethlisberger against a swiss-cheese Bengals defense, Plaxico Burress against a Dolphins team ready to fold, and the Cleveland defense, which matches up against St. Louis, the league's most turnover-prone team.
And quality guy team inevitably includes a few brews.
That's a good thing normally, but as Brad Evans from Yahoo Fantasy Sports writes, "inevitably, hanging out for ten-plus hours with owners from my local 12-team keeper league will lead to numerous trade discussions."
This can be a good thing, but it could also be dangerous. Here's Evans' advice for discussing trades while consuming adult beverages.
My favorite part:
"Have an attitude that mixes the hubris of Bill Belichick with the tearful compassion of Dick Vermeil." Good luck with that.
By the way, my money players for Week 8 include Ben Roethlisberger against a swiss-cheese Bengals defense, Plaxico Burress against a Dolphins team ready to fold, and the Cleveland defense, which matches up against St. Louis, the league's most turnover-prone team.
Lucky Number Seven
Believe it or not, we're nearly halfway through the 2007 NFL season already.
For fantasy owners, we are especially close to the middle mark, considering most leagues only go 16 weeks.
This means the playoff push is just around the corner.
The bad news is that you may have yet to get your first win. Or maybe you've got Marc Bulger. Or maybe you just now realized you're actually supposed to "set your lineup," as your buddies say.
Never fear. Even the winless can still make the playoffs with the right management from here out.
Week 7 provides us with several sleeper picks who could help turn around your season in a heartbeat.
At quarterback, fantasy football toolbox likes Brian Griese from the Bears, who has seven TD's and over 700 yards passing since replacing Rex Grossman in week 4. Plus, Griese faces Philadelphia, the 21st-ranked passing defense in the league.
Selvin Young, running back for the Broncos, is another interesting possibility. Travis Henry is questionable to play (possibly due to injury, possibly due to his bad luck with secondhand smoke), and Young has shown the ability to break big plays for a run-first offense.
Donte' Stallworth, wide receiver from New England, is another good option for Week 7, though it pains me to say it. I dropped him two weeks ago and he has since gone off for over 200 yards receiving and two touchdowns. Oops. If he's available - get him.
Finally, if you need a defense this week, I'm looking for Seattle to have a solid week against a St. Louis offense that has turned the ball over a league-high 17 times this year.
Play it smart, and your season could turn on a magnificent (week) seven.
For fantasy owners, we are especially close to the middle mark, considering most leagues only go 16 weeks.
This means the playoff push is just around the corner.
The bad news is that you may have yet to get your first win. Or maybe you've got Marc Bulger. Or maybe you just now realized you're actually supposed to "set your lineup," as your buddies say.
Never fear. Even the winless can still make the playoffs with the right management from here out.
Week 7 provides us with several sleeper picks who could help turn around your season in a heartbeat.
At quarterback, fantasy football toolbox likes Brian Griese from the Bears, who has seven TD's and over 700 yards passing since replacing Rex Grossman in week 4. Plus, Griese faces Philadelphia, the 21st-ranked passing defense in the league.
Selvin Young, running back for the Broncos, is another interesting possibility. Travis Henry is questionable to play (possibly due to injury, possibly due to his bad luck with secondhand smoke), and Young has shown the ability to break big plays for a run-first offense.
Donte' Stallworth, wide receiver from New England, is another good option for Week 7, though it pains me to say it. I dropped him two weeks ago and he has since gone off for over 200 yards receiving and two touchdowns. Oops. If he's available - get him.
Finally, if you need a defense this week, I'm looking for Seattle to have a solid week against a St. Louis offense that has turned the ball over a league-high 17 times this year.
Play it smart, and your season could turn on a magnificent (week) seven.
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
Here's the story...
...Of a man named Tom Brady.
What an incredible start to the season.
Brady is off to one of the best starts an NFL quarterback has ever had, with over 1700 yards passing and 21 touchdowns in six games.
Compare that to Peyton Manning's 2004 season, which some regard as the best ever for a QB.
That year, Manning finished with over 4500 yards and 49 touchdowns.
If Brady keeps up his current pace, he will finish the year with over 4700 yards and 56 touchdowns.
If you own Brady on your fantasy team, count your lucky stars. You may be benefiting from the greatest season an NFL QB has ever had.
What an incredible start to the season.
Brady is off to one of the best starts an NFL quarterback has ever had, with over 1700 yards passing and 21 touchdowns in six games.
Compare that to Peyton Manning's 2004 season, which some regard as the best ever for a QB.
That year, Manning finished with over 4500 yards and 49 touchdowns.
If Brady keeps up his current pace, he will finish the year with over 4700 yards and 56 touchdowns.
If you own Brady on your fantasy team, count your lucky stars. You may be benefiting from the greatest season an NFL QB has ever had.
Monday, October 8, 2007
His job is on the line
Let's be honest.
We've all got a little George Steinbrenner in us.
There has been a lot of bad press surrounding the Yankees owner's statement that manager Joe Torre's job was on the line in the team's playoff series against the Indians.
George had this to say on Sunday in an article in the New York Daily News:
''His job is on the line,'' Steinbrenner said. ''I think we're paying him a lot
of money. He's the highest-paid manager in baseball. So I don't think we'd bring him back if we don't win this series."
Harsh? Maybe.
But perhaps we fantasy owners need to follow the lead of "The Boss" and look to our own squads.
Here is a list of a few players who should be put on notice that they are playing for their jobs in fantasy football this week:
Reggie Bush, Saints RB - With just 147 rush yards and one TD in four games, "the President" has been about as effective as the Hoover administration.
Drew Brees, Saints QB - Not to pile on New Orleans here, but Brees - rated as one of the top 5 fantasy QB's heading into the season - has an unthinkable one TD and nine interceptions.
Larry Johnson, Chiefs RB - Granted he has yet to get his typical number of carries this season, but LJ has averaged a measly 55 yards per game and has yet to reach the end zone.
Lee Evans, Bills WR - Touted as a "breakout" wide receiver this year, Evans has zero TD's and only 11 total receptions. Plus he plays for the Bills.
Should these guys get the Joe Torre treatment and be sent to the unemployment line? No, probably not.
But if they don't start performing soon, look to trade them before their value completely diminishes.
You can't win championships on hope. Just ask Steinbrenner.
Thursday, October 4, 2007
Rock-Solid Future
Unbelievable.
The Colorado Rockies are in the 2007 playoffs. And no, I'm not a bandwagon fan.
I have at least 30 ticket stubs in my possession from this season, and I don't keep them all.
And while I hope this team rolls all the way to the World Series, I am already looking forward to next season's prospects.
In 2008, the Rockies will be the team to beat in the NL West, Matt Holliday will finally get his respect, and Manny Corpas will become one of baseball's best closers.
But how about the rest of the league?
Here is my Rockies-inspired list of players on the rise for fantasy baseball 2008:
Prince Fielder - 50 HR, 119 RBI, Fielder will go in the top 5 of most fantasy drafts in '08.
Eric Byrnes - Has become the face of the D-Backs franchise, .286, 50 SB, 179 hits.
Fausto Carmona - Ranked 315 among starters by Yahoo before the season, he finished ranked in the top 10.
J.J. Putz - Best ERA (1.38) among full-time closers, plus 40 saves is nice, too.
It's never to early to get ready for fantasy baseball 2008.
It's never too late to jump on the Rockies bandwagon.
The Colorado Rockies are in the 2007 playoffs. And no, I'm not a bandwagon fan.
I have at least 30 ticket stubs in my possession from this season, and I don't keep them all.
And while I hope this team rolls all the way to the World Series, I am already looking forward to next season's prospects.
In 2008, the Rockies will be the team to beat in the NL West, Matt Holliday will finally get his respect, and Manny Corpas will become one of baseball's best closers.
But how about the rest of the league?
Here is my Rockies-inspired list of players on the rise for fantasy baseball 2008:
Prince Fielder - 50 HR, 119 RBI, Fielder will go in the top 5 of most fantasy drafts in '08.
Eric Byrnes - Has become the face of the D-Backs franchise, .286, 50 SB, 179 hits.
Fausto Carmona - Ranked 315 among starters by Yahoo before the season, he finished ranked in the top 10.
J.J. Putz - Best ERA (1.38) among full-time closers, plus 40 saves is nice, too.
It's never to early to get ready for fantasy baseball 2008.
It's never too late to jump on the Rockies bandwagon.
Wednesday, September 26, 2007
Why I Love Sports
Okay, I admit it.
My favorite pastime in life is meaningless, over-hyped, and admittedly unintellectual.
I love sports. And what's more, I love fantasy sports, which makes me look like even more of a simpleton.
But in a week when my entire university is ripe with heated political and personal debate over a controversial editorial in the campus newspaper, I find it a nice escape to head to football practice and talk about an effective pass rush or the demands of a long-snapper.
This week I was reminded of covering the Cal-Colorado State football game on Sept. 8 at Hughes Stadium in Fort Collins, Colo.
It was a competitive, physical game. Several of the players commented afterwards how hard each side was hitting.
The game came down to the very wire, with the Rams scoring two touchdowns in less than a minute to pull within striking distance of a win only to watch the Golden Bears pull out a tight victory.
After the game, I marveled at the fact that there was not one argument between opposing sides; not one Cal player was showboating and not one CSU athlete was found cutting down their victorious opponents.
In fact, several Rams and Golden Bears were talking to each other, shaking hands as they walked off the field, complementing each other on what was a good football game.
Cal stud wide receiver DeSean Jackson gave credit to the Rams and even admitted they deserved a better fate than a loss.
These guys had just spent 60 minutes trying to kill each other (athletically-speaking) and yet they were smiling as they talked to each other like real human beings.
Mutual respect carried the day.
I know. It doesn't always happen like that. But it certainly happens far more than it does in the world of politics, or in our daily lives with friends, family, and peers.
Come on, people. We will always be in competition with each other over ideals, right versus wrong, social issues, politics, journalistic dilemmas, and a whole host of other things.
But why can't we take those football players' actions to heart?
They give everything they can to beat their opponent but, in the end, no one has to lose their pride.
No one has to lose their humanity.
My favorite pastime in life is meaningless, over-hyped, and admittedly unintellectual.
I love sports. And what's more, I love fantasy sports, which makes me look like even more of a simpleton.
But in a week when my entire university is ripe with heated political and personal debate over a controversial editorial in the campus newspaper, I find it a nice escape to head to football practice and talk about an effective pass rush or the demands of a long-snapper.
This week I was reminded of covering the Cal-Colorado State football game on Sept. 8 at Hughes Stadium in Fort Collins, Colo.
It was a competitive, physical game. Several of the players commented afterwards how hard each side was hitting.
The game came down to the very wire, with the Rams scoring two touchdowns in less than a minute to pull within striking distance of a win only to watch the Golden Bears pull out a tight victory.
After the game, I marveled at the fact that there was not one argument between opposing sides; not one Cal player was showboating and not one CSU athlete was found cutting down their victorious opponents.
In fact, several Rams and Golden Bears were talking to each other, shaking hands as they walked off the field, complementing each other on what was a good football game.
Cal stud wide receiver DeSean Jackson gave credit to the Rams and even admitted they deserved a better fate than a loss.
These guys had just spent 60 minutes trying to kill each other (athletically-speaking) and yet they were smiling as they talked to each other like real human beings.
Mutual respect carried the day.
I know. It doesn't always happen like that. But it certainly happens far more than it does in the world of politics, or in our daily lives with friends, family, and peers.
Come on, people. We will always be in competition with each other over ideals, right versus wrong, social issues, politics, journalistic dilemmas, and a whole host of other things.
But why can't we take those football players' actions to heart?
They give everything they can to beat their opponent but, in the end, no one has to lose their pride.
No one has to lose their humanity.
Thursday, September 20, 2007
Driving the Pick-Ups
A lot of people think that fantasy football is won simply by drafting the best team, then watching each week as your players dominate the competition.
Ah... if only it were so simple.
The secret is, the best fantasy football players win on Monday through Friday, when they ignore their work, the untrimmed lawn, and the annoying squeal of the breaks on their pick-up trucks for something far greater:
Fantasy pick-ups.
Finding players mid-week has won me many a fantasy match-ups.
For example, picking up Maurice Jones-Drew in Week 3 last season proved to be money. Jacksonville's starting back, Fred Taylor, had been struggling with injury problems, and Jones-Drew was left to go off for 133 total yards and a touchdown.
This season, I picked up the Minnesota defense literally days before the season began, expecting good things against a dismal Atlanta offense.
They were great, giving me 31 fantasy points, the most I had from any spot in Week 1.
This week, don't just wait around for Deuce McCallister and Donovan McNabb to explode miraculously. Be proactive, and pick up some players who you expect will have a big day in Week 3.
Here's Yahoo's top Week 3 pick-ups.
Go ahead and be bold. Your pick-up just might drive you to a victory.
Ah... if only it were so simple.
The secret is, the best fantasy football players win on Monday through Friday, when they ignore their work, the untrimmed lawn, and the annoying squeal of the breaks on their pick-up trucks for something far greater:
Fantasy pick-ups.
Finding players mid-week has won me many a fantasy match-ups.
For example, picking up Maurice Jones-Drew in Week 3 last season proved to be money. Jacksonville's starting back, Fred Taylor, had been struggling with injury problems, and Jones-Drew was left to go off for 133 total yards and a touchdown.
This season, I picked up the Minnesota defense literally days before the season began, expecting good things against a dismal Atlanta offense.
They were great, giving me 31 fantasy points, the most I had from any spot in Week 1.
This week, don't just wait around for Deuce McCallister and Donovan McNabb to explode miraculously. Be proactive, and pick up some players who you expect will have a big day in Week 3.
Here's Yahoo's top Week 3 pick-ups.
Go ahead and be bold. Your pick-up just might drive you to a victory.
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
Derek who?
According to ESPN.com, 0.1 percent of ESPN fantasy football teams owned Cleveland Browns third-year quarterback Derek Anderson prior to Sunday.
I'm willing to bet that half of those were either close friends or family, and the other half were Oregon State alumni.
But Anderson, in just his fourth career start, shocked the NFL world by throwing for 328 yards and 5 touchdowns in a 51-45 win over the Cincinnati Bengals.
In other words, Grandma Anderson and Benny Beaver dominated their fantasy opponents in Week 2.
In one week, the guy nearly equaled his previous career touchdown total. He had six coming into Sunday's game. He had five more a few hours later.
It just goes to show, don't be afraid to roll the dice every once in a while. In the NFL, where the "any given Sunday" rule applies, even Derek Anderson can win you a fantasy matchup.
Unfortunately, for those of us without Mr. Anderson on our speed dial or a Corvallis zip code, we missed this one.
I'm willing to bet that half of those were either close friends or family, and the other half were Oregon State alumni.
But Anderson, in just his fourth career start, shocked the NFL world by throwing for 328 yards and 5 touchdowns in a 51-45 win over the Cincinnati Bengals.
In other words, Grandma Anderson and Benny Beaver dominated their fantasy opponents in Week 2.
In one week, the guy nearly equaled his previous career touchdown total. He had six coming into Sunday's game. He had five more a few hours later.
It just goes to show, don't be afraid to roll the dice every once in a while. In the NFL, where the "any given Sunday" rule applies, even Derek Anderson can win you a fantasy matchup.
Unfortunately, for those of us without Mr. Anderson on our speed dial or a Corvallis zip code, we missed this one.
Thursday, September 13, 2007
Patriot Games
Thank you, Bill Belichick. Or is it Belicheat?
The "genius" coach of the New England Patriots, seen at right, has given all us fantasy footballers the inside information we need with his team's alleged sign-stealing in a win against the Jets last Sunday.
So, apparently, we should all go out and sign up some Patriots!
Pick up running back Kevin Faulk, tight end Kyle Brady, heck - maybe even left tackle Matt Light will get into the fantasy action!
If you know the defense's every move, why not?
Then again, maybe you're of the opinion that either: a) the Patriots are innocent and the guy on the sideline with a camera was just putting together a youtube compilation or, b) just about every team in the NFL does this sort of thing, so what's the big deal?
If that is the case, here are the non-Patriots players you should consider starting this Sunday:
Ben Roethlisberger, Pittsburgh QB - Big Ben threw four touchdowns in Week 1, and this week he goes against a Buffalo defense that allowed over 300 passing yards to Denver last week.
Seattle defense - The Seahawks surprised with 18 points in my league last week. Sunday they face the Cardinals, who managed only 261 total yards and turned the ball over three times in Week 1.
Brandon Marshall, Denver WR - Marshall continues to look more and more like a playmaker, and is a solid fantasy option this week against a Raiders defense that allowed 285 yards and 3 TD's against the Lions's pass offense.
Also, are Yahoo's Week 2 targets, and FFToday's QB/RB rankings.
Good luck this week and, remember, if you ain't cheatin', you ain't on the Patriots payroll.
The "genius" coach of the New England Patriots, seen at right, has given all us fantasy footballers the inside information we need with his team's alleged sign-stealing in a win against the Jets last Sunday.
So, apparently, we should all go out and sign up some Patriots!
Pick up running back Kevin Faulk, tight end Kyle Brady, heck - maybe even left tackle Matt Light will get into the fantasy action!
If you know the defense's every move, why not?
Then again, maybe you're of the opinion that either: a) the Patriots are innocent and the guy on the sideline with a camera was just putting together a youtube compilation or, b) just about every team in the NFL does this sort of thing, so what's the big deal?
If that is the case, here are the non-Patriots players you should consider starting this Sunday:
Ben Roethlisberger, Pittsburgh QB - Big Ben threw four touchdowns in Week 1, and this week he goes against a Buffalo defense that allowed over 300 passing yards to Denver last week.
Seattle defense - The Seahawks surprised with 18 points in my league last week. Sunday they face the Cardinals, who managed only 261 total yards and turned the ball over three times in Week 1.
Brandon Marshall, Denver WR - Marshall continues to look more and more like a playmaker, and is a solid fantasy option this week against a Raiders defense that allowed 285 yards and 3 TD's against the Lions's pass offense.
Also, are Yahoo's Week 2 targets, and FFToday's QB/RB rankings.
Good luck this week and, remember, if you ain't cheatin', you ain't on the Patriots payroll.
Monday, September 10, 2007
Don't Panic
As week one of the 2007 fantasy football season comes to a close, chances are you fall into one of two groups.
If you're one of the lucky ones, you are celebrating your good fortune; handing out digital high-fives to Tony Romo, Adrian Peterson and Randy Moss.
But if you're like me, you've already got your finger on the trigger (or, in this case, the mouse) ready to send players like Philip Rivers, Reggie Bush and Tony Gonzalez packing for a new fantasy pad.
Wait! Don't do it! There is reason for hope.
For one, there are still 16 weeks of NFL football left, leaving around 12 or 13 fantasy weeks until the playoffs.
But more than that, it's not unusual for good players to struggle in week one, as the handy game log at ESPN.com shows.
In his first game last year, Rivers went 8-for-11 for 103 yards, but finished the year as one of the top fantasy QB's in the league.
Similarly, Shaun Alexander rushed for just 73 yards and no touchdowns in his 2005 opener, then went on to set (for a year's time) the NFL's single-season touchdown record.
In other words: take a deep breath, take your finger off the mouse, and go play some sudoku or something.
But if you are still sure you need to drop someone or have a player with a serious injury, read on.
Here's the top Week 2 pickups from FFToolbox.com. My favorite? Giants running back Derrick Ward, who will carry the load offensively after the loss of Eli Manning and Brandon Jacobs to injury.
Also, check out CBS Sportsline's updated position rankings.
Remember, fantasy football isn't a sprint, it's a marathon. Or at least a 5K.
Wednesday, September 5, 2007
Fulfill Your (Baseball) Fantasy
It's that time of year again. The leaves are beginning to fall, the air is getting a bit crisper, and almost all fantasy sports talk is turned to the world of fantasy football.
Lost in the shuffle is the fact that September is also time for fanatasy baseball playoffs.
I have always had a problem with the fact that fantasy playoffs (whether it be baseball, football, hockey or just about any sport) are played out in the final weeks of that particular professional league's regular season.
For example, we are determing the fantasy baseball champion at a time when only a dozen of 30 Major League Baseball teams are playing meaningful baseball and when many big-name players (including San Francisco's Barry Bonds and Florida's Miguel Olivo) are being benched to make way for minor league call-ups who need some regular season experience.
Luckily, you can still succeed amid the roller coaster-like changes in the September MLB scene, but you have to stay alert.
Here is CBS Sporstsline's updated position rankings, with a list of players on the rise and on the fall. And here is a great article from Ray Murphy at BaseballHQ.com on stretch run targets - players who have the potential to ignite or deflate in the final weeks of the season.
The bottom line is: pay attention. If you've got a player on the Cincinnati Reds' roster, be aware his team is playing for nothing more than respect. Has the team brought up a minor leaguer recently to take his place?
On the flip side, players on playoff contending teams have a higher potential for a big September because their production will be needed (see: Carlos Delgado for the Mets, Jayson Werth for the Phillies, and Jason Marquis for the Cubs).
Remember, you'll still have three months of fantasy football when this month is over. Make the end of your fantasy baseball season count.
Lost in the shuffle is the fact that September is also time for fanatasy baseball playoffs.
I have always had a problem with the fact that fantasy playoffs (whether it be baseball, football, hockey or just about any sport) are played out in the final weeks of that particular professional league's regular season.
For example, we are determing the fantasy baseball champion at a time when only a dozen of 30 Major League Baseball teams are playing meaningful baseball and when many big-name players (including San Francisco's Barry Bonds and Florida's Miguel Olivo) are being benched to make way for minor league call-ups who need some regular season experience.
Luckily, you can still succeed amid the roller coaster-like changes in the September MLB scene, but you have to stay alert.
Here is CBS Sporstsline's updated position rankings, with a list of players on the rise and on the fall. And here is a great article from Ray Murphy at BaseballHQ.com on stretch run targets - players who have the potential to ignite or deflate in the final weeks of the season.
The bottom line is: pay attention. If you've got a player on the Cincinnati Reds' roster, be aware his team is playing for nothing more than respect. Has the team brought up a minor leaguer recently to take his place?
On the flip side, players on playoff contending teams have a higher potential for a big September because their production will be needed (see: Carlos Delgado for the Mets, Jayson Werth for the Phillies, and Jason Marquis for the Cubs).
Remember, you'll still have three months of fantasy football when this month is over. Make the end of your fantasy baseball season count.
Wednesday, August 22, 2007
This is Jeff Dillon
My name is Jeff Dillon. I am a senior technical journalism major at CSU, with a focus in news/editorial. I was born in Twin Falls, Idaho, and grew up mostly in Greeley, Colo. I also lived in San Diego for two years.
My journalism experience includes one year at Regent Communications in Northern Colorado, where I was a radio intern for several stations, including K99 and 99.9 The Point. I began writing for the Collegian in 2006, where I've covered several sports, including volleyball, women's basketball and football.
My interests include sports, music, writing, (some) politics, global and social issues, and I am a daily newspaper reader. Some of my favorite Web sites include:
CSU Rams
Rocky Mountain News
Filter Magazine
DATA
My blog will probably revolve around one of these areas. Or something completely different.
My journalism experience includes one year at Regent Communications in Northern Colorado, where I was a radio intern for several stations, including K99 and 99.9 The Point. I began writing for the Collegian in 2006, where I've covered several sports, including volleyball, women's basketball and football.
My interests include sports, music, writing, (some) politics, global and social issues, and I am a daily newspaper reader. Some of my favorite Web sites include:
CSU Rams
Rocky Mountain News
Filter Magazine
DATA
My blog will probably revolve around one of these areas. Or something completely different.
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