AFC South Week 16 Wrap Up
By Rafael Garcia
Sr. Contributing Writer Football Reporters Online
Southeast Region
San Diego 42 Tennessee 17
The game was never a contest from the start and the Titans season is now over. Eliminated from the playoffs, Tennessee looks towards other goals. First off was Christmas night, a game versus a Chargers team that had won nine straight games. The Titans needed a win to keep their playoff hopes alive but could not deliver. Vince Young has taken this team from 0-6 to 7-7 and back in the playoff talk. The problem was they ran into a San Diego team playing December ball like no other in the league. They have not lost in December since 2006 for a total of 18 straight. Phillip Rivers picked the Titans defense apart going 21-27 for 264 yards and two touchdowns. He is playing just as well as any of the top quarterbacks in the league. On the other side of the ball it was Tennessee playing like they did while they were going 0-6. Young had his worst game since he took over going 8-21 for only 89 yards with two picks. He also had a key fumble when he was sliding for a first down. The one bright spot continues to be Chris Johnson and his ability to get yards. He ran for 142 yards on 21 carries with a touchdown and needs only 128 to get to 2,000. He would have probably gone over 200 on Christmas night if the Chargers didn’t have such a big lead. So next week is the last game of the season and they will play to get Johnson to 2,000 and possibly, if he can get 234 yards, pass Eric Dickerson’s mark of 2,105 yards. They are also playing for a .500 but a good point needs to be mentioned. If the Titans lose to Seattle next week they would get better positioning in next year’s draft and would play a better schedule. Now no one wants to play to lose but just thought I would mention that.
New York Jets 29 Indianapolis 15
See this is why I have a problem with pulling players at years end. If you are going to do it why let your key players play into the third period? I can see playing them a series or two or maybe even a quarter. Not only that they did it in their home finale of the season. Way to treat your fans to a good game. So with the score 15-10 Jim Caldwell decided to pull Peyton Manning in favor of Curtis Painter and it bombed. Painter was greeted rather rudely and was hit often. He even fumbled on his second series that turned into a touchdown for the Jets. So perfection is gone and what is the point to the Colts. Let us remember that the ultimate goal is to win the Super Bowl. It doesn’t matter if you win all your games or go 8-8. Still as a fan you would have wanted to see how it would have panned out next week had they won this game? The loss helped the Jets and hurt the Ravens making the last week of the season one to remember. So the main guys will rest next week in preparation for the playoffs. The media and the fans will second guess the decision for weeks to come but if Indy can win the big one it wont matter. If they don’t win it all it will be questioned into next season. They better hope that the likes of Austin Collie and other young players are not hurting their rhythm by not playing with Manning too much.
Houston 27 Miami 20
This is why they play the game as they say. When the season began the Texans had aspirations of a playoff berth for the first time in franchise history. As the season progressed things began to slowly unravel. They lost key games and kept making the mistake that have hurt them in years past. As the season has come to a close they are playing the brand of football they had hoped to play all year. On this day they looked great jumping out to a 27-0 lead as Matt Schaub had two quick scoring passes and Arian Foster chipped in with a 17-yard run. Kicker Kris Brown also had two field goals in the first half for 27-3 lead. They had to hold off a Dolphin 20-point rally but still looked like a team ready to make its first postseason appearance. Foster looked good running for 97 yards and Andre Johnson had five catches for 71 yards and a score. The defense held Miami to just 60 yards on the ground with Ricky Williams getting just 35. On the other side of the coin they did allow Chad Henne to go 35-55 for 322 yards too. So now they play to win next week and wait for the help they need. They have played hard and coach Gary Kubiak knows what’s at stake and the team is playing like it too. Let’s see if they can accomplish their goal and what they will do if they get there.
New England 34 Jacksonville 7
Another team in search of the postseason with jobs on the line is the Jags. On Sunday things did not go as planned when Tom Brady and Randy Moss put on a show that all but eliminated Jacksonville from playoff contention. They saw Brady go a near perfect 23-26 for 267 yards and four touchdowns. Moss had a huge day with three touchdowns on four catches. Maurice Jones-Drew failed to get 100 yards again getting just 63 on 18 carries. They managed just 275 yards of offense and David Garrard was picked off twice. When they had any kind of drive it was killed, as they were 4-11 on third down efficiency. They made Wes Welker look like one of the best receivers in the league as he caught 13 passes for 138 yards and leads the league with 122 catches. They failed to get to Brady and remain one the worst teams in the league as far as sacking the opposing quarterback is concerned. So they will need to win next week and get a lot of help or its lost season. If they do not make the playoffs changes will be needed and most of the time it starts with the head coach.
Showing posts with label nfl. Show all posts
Showing posts with label nfl. Show all posts
Friday, January 01, 2010
NFC South Week 16 Wrap Up
NFC South Week 16 Wrap Up
By Rafael Garcia
Sr. Contributing Writer Football Reporters Online
Southeast Region
Atlanta 31 Buffalo 3
Now that the playoffs are not possible the Falcons decided to play for wins and pride. On Sunday they manhandled the Bills from the start. On the first play from scrimmage Matt Ryan hit Roddy White from 42 yards out to make it 7-0. The Bills would never be in the game from that point on. They managed just 187 total yards with only 40 coming via the run. Ryan finished 18-35 for 250 yards and three touchdowns. White had another scoring catch to close the scoring and finished with 139 yards on eight catches. The running tandem of Jason Snelling and Jerious Norwood combined for 28 carries for 120 yards and the defense is playing the way they had hoped they would all year. They held the Bills to 11 first downs and 2-10 in third down efficiency. They forced three turnovers and 10 penalties for 60 yards and two sacks. Next week they go to Tampa Bay to try and finish the year with a winning record.
Tampa Bay 20 New Orleans 17
The last fourth of this season has been really hard on the Saints. They started off so strong but have been exposed in the last month. The defense is the first thing that needs to be addressed and fast. They are finding ways to keep drives alive by allowing the big play, like the 77-yard punt return by Michael Spurlock to tie the game late in the fourth. They gave up 439 yards total yards to the Bucs. Tampa Bay was 7-12 on third downs and had the ball for 36 minutes. Not too bad for a team that started so bad. It was to the point where people were asking if head coach Raheem Morris could survive more than one year. New Orleans actually lead 17-0 and it was still 17-3 at the half. It would not be enough as Drew Brees was held under 300 yards passing and the Bucs defense came up big when they needed to. They took advantage of an injury to Saints running back Pierre Thomas and shut down the run game in the second half. Josh Freeman continued his evolution going 21-31 for 271 yards with no touchdowns and two picks. He did make a big play in the overtime that kept the winning drive alive. So Tampa continues to look like they are improving with each week and the Saints keep looking more vulnerable game after game. They and some fans thought they had won the game in regulation but Garrett Hartley missed a field goal from 37 yards out with five seconds left in the game. So Tampa moves on to finish the year next week looking to next year and the improvements they need to make. On a last note Morris may have saved his job with the team’s play in the last month or so.
Carolina 41 New York Giants 9
It was the last game at the Meadowlands and it hit home for me personally. I grew up going to that stadium and was looking to see the Gmen go out with a win. Unfortunately the Panthers had other plans. They came in with many questions in a season that had gone south. So, with not much to play for, they decided to show up and show out. Matt Moore had an effective day going 15-20 for 171 yards and three touchdowns. On top of that Jonathan Stewart ran all over the Giants defense to the tune of 206 yards on 28 carries and a score. The Panthers were 10-15 on third downs and had 416 total yards. They ran for 247 and forced four turnovers. The defense held the Giants to 60 yards rushing 27 minutes in time of possession. It was an ugly way for New York to go out as they showed no heart and little emotion. Eli Manning was 29-43 for 296 yards but he was playing from behind all day. It was 24-0 at the half and 34-3 by the end of the third. It was Carolina’s third win in their last four games and just like in Tampa that may have saved their coaches job for sure now.
By Rafael Garcia
Sr. Contributing Writer Football Reporters Online
Southeast Region
Atlanta 31 Buffalo 3
Now that the playoffs are not possible the Falcons decided to play for wins and pride. On Sunday they manhandled the Bills from the start. On the first play from scrimmage Matt Ryan hit Roddy White from 42 yards out to make it 7-0. The Bills would never be in the game from that point on. They managed just 187 total yards with only 40 coming via the run. Ryan finished 18-35 for 250 yards and three touchdowns. White had another scoring catch to close the scoring and finished with 139 yards on eight catches. The running tandem of Jason Snelling and Jerious Norwood combined for 28 carries for 120 yards and the defense is playing the way they had hoped they would all year. They held the Bills to 11 first downs and 2-10 in third down efficiency. They forced three turnovers and 10 penalties for 60 yards and two sacks. Next week they go to Tampa Bay to try and finish the year with a winning record.
Tampa Bay 20 New Orleans 17
The last fourth of this season has been really hard on the Saints. They started off so strong but have been exposed in the last month. The defense is the first thing that needs to be addressed and fast. They are finding ways to keep drives alive by allowing the big play, like the 77-yard punt return by Michael Spurlock to tie the game late in the fourth. They gave up 439 yards total yards to the Bucs. Tampa Bay was 7-12 on third downs and had the ball for 36 minutes. Not too bad for a team that started so bad. It was to the point where people were asking if head coach Raheem Morris could survive more than one year. New Orleans actually lead 17-0 and it was still 17-3 at the half. It would not be enough as Drew Brees was held under 300 yards passing and the Bucs defense came up big when they needed to. They took advantage of an injury to Saints running back Pierre Thomas and shut down the run game in the second half. Josh Freeman continued his evolution going 21-31 for 271 yards with no touchdowns and two picks. He did make a big play in the overtime that kept the winning drive alive. So Tampa continues to look like they are improving with each week and the Saints keep looking more vulnerable game after game. They and some fans thought they had won the game in regulation but Garrett Hartley missed a field goal from 37 yards out with five seconds left in the game. So Tampa moves on to finish the year next week looking to next year and the improvements they need to make. On a last note Morris may have saved his job with the team’s play in the last month or so.
Carolina 41 New York Giants 9
It was the last game at the Meadowlands and it hit home for me personally. I grew up going to that stadium and was looking to see the Gmen go out with a win. Unfortunately the Panthers had other plans. They came in with many questions in a season that had gone south. So, with not much to play for, they decided to show up and show out. Matt Moore had an effective day going 15-20 for 171 yards and three touchdowns. On top of that Jonathan Stewart ran all over the Giants defense to the tune of 206 yards on 28 carries and a score. The Panthers were 10-15 on third downs and had 416 total yards. They ran for 247 and forced four turnovers. The defense held the Giants to 60 yards rushing 27 minutes in time of possession. It was an ugly way for New York to go out as they showed no heart and little emotion. Eli Manning was 29-43 for 296 yards but he was playing from behind all day. It was 24-0 at the half and 34-3 by the end of the third. It was Carolina’s third win in their last four games and just like in Tampa that may have saved their coaches job for sure now.
Saturday, December 26, 2009
Watercooler Chat for week 16
Watercooler Chat week 16 By David Ortega for Football Reporters Online
A Wireless Week
For most computer geeks wireless is usually a very good thing, but for fantasy owners it means you have to roll with what you got; sometimes that's not so good. If you're stuck with few choices, but have a chance to tap into the free market here's what our good buddy Wayne "The Wire" Bosco has to offer...
Wayne says...
It's always better to play the hot hand, rather than a cold one which could be the case this week. With Jerome Harrison coming off a career day 286 yards on the ground and set to face a questionable Raiders run defense (ranked 28th against the run), those are plenty of reasons to jump on the Brown's running back's milk-truck. Harrison has not done a whole lot in 2009, but he made a loud statement last week and it's a good bet that the Brown's coaching staff was listening. He should be featured quite a bit on Sunday and could be very good play against Oakland. This game is going to lack a lot of great defense, so there should be plenty of big plays on offense from both sides; including Mr. Harrison.
The Titan's will have a difficult matchup on Friday night against the San Diego Chargers, but there's no question two of the biggest keys for Tennessee will be Chris Johnson and Vince Young. What some folks may not be aware of, rookie wide receiver Kenny Britt will also be a huge key for the Titans. While Britt has cooled off some the past couple of weeks, he'll be an important instrument in the Titans success. With the Charger's starting corners preoccupied with Tennessee's other receivers (Gage, Washington), Britt is going to see some favorable coverages and should be targeted quite a bit in this one. When Young has looked for Britt, the kid has been big with three touchdowns in his last five games and facing the explosive Chargers the Titans will have to throw the ball.
The Colts are not going to head into this Week 16 matchup lightly and if Peyton Mannng has any say, they will play to win. This week's matchup with the Jets will present many challenges, but with New York's shutdown corner Darrelle Revis pretty much locking up Reggie Wayne the Colts second year wideout Pierre Garcon could be big. Garcon starting opposite Wayne has played well when called on this season has been quiet the past couple of weeks, but could become a primary weapon against the Jets. Last week Garcon saw only two throws in his direction, but in his six games prior he saw no fewer than eight (averaging more than nine). This should be a matchup for the Colts second year wideout that gets him back on track.
Waynes Weekly "Friendly Word for the wise"...
The Niners are basically playing for pride now, but their quarteback could be playing for a whole lot more; a strong finish. Quarterback Alex Smith has not quite sold the idea he's the team's future, but a strong finish could go a long way. With the rookie Michael Crabtree one of his favorite and best targets, it safe to say he (Crabtree) will likely play a big part in the success of the passing game down the stretch. A late arrival this season Crabtree has been a very positive addition to the team's passing attack and with his quarterback looking to make a statement, expect Crabtree to be a huge beneficiary. Despite playing in just nine games Crabtree is amongst the team leaders in receptions, yards, and touchdowns for wide receivers. With Smith continuing to call his number, expect the rookie to see his numbers greatly improve.
Player Watch for Week 16
Once again here a few players of note that fantasy owners should consider riding or hiding for the coming weekend of games. Keep these players on your watchlist, you just may want to give them a hard look come Sunday;
(Start) JermIchael Finley
The Packer's tight end has been better than consistent with 21 receptions and three touchdowns in his last three games. He's a huge target in the red-zone and quarterback Aaron Rodgers is looking his direction more and more.
(Start) Vince Young
The Titans quarterback Vince Young has been a fantasy keeper over the past several weeks averaging more than 20 fantasy points in his last three starts, including three touchdown passes last week. There's no reason to believe he shouldn't do more of the same against the Chargers 15th ranked defense on Christmas night.
(Sit) Thomas Jones
As reliable and solid as running back Thomas Jones has been all season, this game could simple be a case where he just won't get any opportunity. The Colts offense is just so impressive they could easily turn the Jets offense to one dimensional by jumping out big real quick. Thomas is likely a long shot to see more than 15 carries in this one.
(Start) Michael Bush
The Raiders running back Michael Bush has to love his chances this Sunday against the Browns defense after watching highlights of Jamaal Charles shredding it for 150 yards on the ground. Bush is coming off a season high effort of 133 yards of his own and should do well in Cleveland.
(Sit) Knowshon Moreno
The Broncos backfield will likely be a little crowded on Sunday with the return of running back Correll Buckhalter. With the Eagles 10th ranked run defense on the slate fantasy owners shouldn't expect a great effort from rookie running back Knowshon Moreno.
(Start) Pierre Thomas
The Saints lost their bid on perfection, but they won't just lay down the rest of the way. They need to get back to winning with their balanced attack and with Buccaneers (ranked 30th against the run) in town Pierre Thomas should be featured even more on the ground this Sunday.
A Wireless Week
For most computer geeks wireless is usually a very good thing, but for fantasy owners it means you have to roll with what you got; sometimes that's not so good. If you're stuck with few choices, but have a chance to tap into the free market here's what our good buddy Wayne "The Wire" Bosco has to offer...
Wayne says...
It's always better to play the hot hand, rather than a cold one which could be the case this week. With Jerome Harrison coming off a career day 286 yards on the ground and set to face a questionable Raiders run defense (ranked 28th against the run), those are plenty of reasons to jump on the Brown's running back's milk-truck. Harrison has not done a whole lot in 2009, but he made a loud statement last week and it's a good bet that the Brown's coaching staff was listening. He should be featured quite a bit on Sunday and could be very good play against Oakland. This game is going to lack a lot of great defense, so there should be plenty of big plays on offense from both sides; including Mr. Harrison.
The Titan's will have a difficult matchup on Friday night against the San Diego Chargers, but there's no question two of the biggest keys for Tennessee will be Chris Johnson and Vince Young. What some folks may not be aware of, rookie wide receiver Kenny Britt will also be a huge key for the Titans. While Britt has cooled off some the past couple of weeks, he'll be an important instrument in the Titans success. With the Charger's starting corners preoccupied with Tennessee's other receivers (Gage, Washington), Britt is going to see some favorable coverages and should be targeted quite a bit in this one. When Young has looked for Britt, the kid has been big with three touchdowns in his last five games and facing the explosive Chargers the Titans will have to throw the ball.
The Colts are not going to head into this Week 16 matchup lightly and if Peyton Mannng has any say, they will play to win. This week's matchup with the Jets will present many challenges, but with New York's shutdown corner Darrelle Revis pretty much locking up Reggie Wayne the Colts second year wideout Pierre Garcon could be big. Garcon starting opposite Wayne has played well when called on this season has been quiet the past couple of weeks, but could become a primary weapon against the Jets. Last week Garcon saw only two throws in his direction, but in his six games prior he saw no fewer than eight (averaging more than nine). This should be a matchup for the Colts second year wideout that gets him back on track.
Waynes Weekly "Friendly Word for the wise"...
The Niners are basically playing for pride now, but their quarteback could be playing for a whole lot more; a strong finish. Quarterback Alex Smith has not quite sold the idea he's the team's future, but a strong finish could go a long way. With the rookie Michael Crabtree one of his favorite and best targets, it safe to say he (Crabtree) will likely play a big part in the success of the passing game down the stretch. A late arrival this season Crabtree has been a very positive addition to the team's passing attack and with his quarterback looking to make a statement, expect Crabtree to be a huge beneficiary. Despite playing in just nine games Crabtree is amongst the team leaders in receptions, yards, and touchdowns for wide receivers. With Smith continuing to call his number, expect the rookie to see his numbers greatly improve.
Player Watch for Week 16
Once again here a few players of note that fantasy owners should consider riding or hiding for the coming weekend of games. Keep these players on your watchlist, you just may want to give them a hard look come Sunday;
(Start) JermIchael Finley
The Packer's tight end has been better than consistent with 21 receptions and three touchdowns in his last three games. He's a huge target in the red-zone and quarterback Aaron Rodgers is looking his direction more and more.
(Start) Vince Young
The Titans quarterback Vince Young has been a fantasy keeper over the past several weeks averaging more than 20 fantasy points in his last three starts, including three touchdown passes last week. There's no reason to believe he shouldn't do more of the same against the Chargers 15th ranked defense on Christmas night.
(Sit) Thomas Jones
As reliable and solid as running back Thomas Jones has been all season, this game could simple be a case where he just won't get any opportunity. The Colts offense is just so impressive they could easily turn the Jets offense to one dimensional by jumping out big real quick. Thomas is likely a long shot to see more than 15 carries in this one.
(Start) Michael Bush
The Raiders running back Michael Bush has to love his chances this Sunday against the Browns defense after watching highlights of Jamaal Charles shredding it for 150 yards on the ground. Bush is coming off a season high effort of 133 yards of his own and should do well in Cleveland.
(Sit) Knowshon Moreno
The Broncos backfield will likely be a little crowded on Sunday with the return of running back Correll Buckhalter. With the Eagles 10th ranked run defense on the slate fantasy owners shouldn't expect a great effort from rookie running back Knowshon Moreno.
(Start) Pierre Thomas
The Saints lost their bid on perfection, but they won't just lay down the rest of the way. They need to get back to winning with their balanced attack and with Buccaneers (ranked 30th against the run) in town Pierre Thomas should be featured even more on the ground this Sunday.
Friday, December 25, 2009
The Last Giants Game In the “Meadowlands”-the real Meadowlands
The Last Giants Game In the “Meadowlands”-the real Meadowlands
By Dr. Bill Chachkes-Managing Partner/ Executive Editor- Football Reporters Online
It’s not just the end of an era-It’s the end of my youth. When the New Jersey sports and exposition authority opened Giants Stadium on October 10th 1976, I was in my youthful teen years, both in life and in football. The New York Giants would not become a decent team again for about five more years. I was there for the plane overhead in 1978 proclaiming “15 years of lousy football, we have had enough.” I was there for the debut of Phil Simms and LT, for the “4 playoff teams in the first 7 years of the 1980’s”, for the “Almost” season of 1985, for “the” 1986 Stretch run to the 14-2 record and SBXXI. The Flipper Anderson “through the end zone and right into the locker room” catch of 1989.
But best of all, I was there for 1990. 31-7 Over the Bears in the playoffs, Parcells and Ditka prowling their sidelines like two sentries on opposite sides of the DMZ, the Giants feeling and knowing they needed to “make up” for the playoff loss to “dem Bears in “85”, I saw “O.J.” Anderson, Rodney Hampton, and Dave Meggett (the first three headed rushing monster!), I saw the “Jints” “ball control” 90% of the teams they played that season. Although I was already getting a press credential to the draft, that was the first year I got to watch games from the press box in the Meadowlands. I went to “Frisco” for the 15-13 stunner. I went to Tampa for XXV, working my first Super Bowl as a media member.
Then came a few down years again. “Fits and Starts” my Dad would have called them (he passed in December of 1987, and we buried him with a pair of Giants tickets to a home game against the Green Bay Packers scheduled for the next day in the breast pocket of his suit) had he still been alive. At least he got to see his team win a Super Bowl. “Now I can die in Peace,” he told me on the flight home from California. Eleven months later he was gone at age 59 to heart failure. My Mother always said the Giants weakened his heart. I said the strike of “87” was then last straw for him.
Ray Handley: I can still remember Tom Keegan of Bayonne, sitting five rows behind us in section 311 screaming at the top of his lungs “Handley Can you Hear me?? You’re a Bum Handley!!!” I remember January 14th 2000 and the Giants shut out victory in just their third ever NFC title game. Just as clear was the drubbing the Baltimore Ravens handed the Giants two weeks later. It was my last Super Bowl with a credential.
I’m going to miss the memories of Giants Stadium, the “Real” Stadium. The watered down diet soda, the warm water dogs, the “ramps” where I made friends at halftime and before games for a generation. I’ll miss you Meadowlands, but I’ll never forget you and the good times you gave me, or the education in the great game of football I got from sitting in section 311.
By Dr. Bill Chachkes-Managing Partner/ Executive Editor- Football Reporters Online
It’s not just the end of an era-It’s the end of my youth. When the New Jersey sports and exposition authority opened Giants Stadium on October 10th 1976, I was in my youthful teen years, both in life and in football. The New York Giants would not become a decent team again for about five more years. I was there for the plane overhead in 1978 proclaiming “15 years of lousy football, we have had enough.” I was there for the debut of Phil Simms and LT, for the “4 playoff teams in the first 7 years of the 1980’s”, for the “Almost” season of 1985, for “the” 1986 Stretch run to the 14-2 record and SBXXI. The Flipper Anderson “through the end zone and right into the locker room” catch of 1989.
But best of all, I was there for 1990. 31-7 Over the Bears in the playoffs, Parcells and Ditka prowling their sidelines like two sentries on opposite sides of the DMZ, the Giants feeling and knowing they needed to “make up” for the playoff loss to “dem Bears in “85”, I saw “O.J.” Anderson, Rodney Hampton, and Dave Meggett (the first three headed rushing monster!), I saw the “Jints” “ball control” 90% of the teams they played that season. Although I was already getting a press credential to the draft, that was the first year I got to watch games from the press box in the Meadowlands. I went to “Frisco” for the 15-13 stunner. I went to Tampa for XXV, working my first Super Bowl as a media member.
Then came a few down years again. “Fits and Starts” my Dad would have called them (he passed in December of 1987, and we buried him with a pair of Giants tickets to a home game against the Green Bay Packers scheduled for the next day in the breast pocket of his suit) had he still been alive. At least he got to see his team win a Super Bowl. “Now I can die in Peace,” he told me on the flight home from California. Eleven months later he was gone at age 59 to heart failure. My Mother always said the Giants weakened his heart. I said the strike of “87” was then last straw for him.
Ray Handley: I can still remember Tom Keegan of Bayonne, sitting five rows behind us in section 311 screaming at the top of his lungs “Handley Can you Hear me?? You’re a Bum Handley!!!” I remember January 14th 2000 and the Giants shut out victory in just their third ever NFC title game. Just as clear was the drubbing the Baltimore Ravens handed the Giants two weeks later. It was my last Super Bowl with a credential.
I’m going to miss the memories of Giants Stadium, the “Real” Stadium. The watered down diet soda, the warm water dogs, the “ramps” where I made friends at halftime and before games for a generation. I’ll miss you Meadowlands, but I’ll never forget you and the good times you gave me, or the education in the great game of football I got from sitting in section 311.
DESPERATE JETS FACE UNDEFEATED COLTS
DESPERATE JETS FACE UNDEFEATED COLTS
by TJ Rosenthal for Football Reporters Online
The Jets very own "Super Bowl" may very well be taking place at 4pm in Lucas Oil stadium. At 7-7 and needing help, the once 3-0 Gang Green take on the 14-0 Indianapolis Colts, needing to win in order to save the 2009 season. How many lives has Gang Green had? LB Bart SCott said jokingly "twelve." This after Rex Ryan called the season over after the horrifying last minute loss to Atlanta 10-7 that stripped the Jets of control of their own destiny from here on out. Who knew that the Raiders much maligned former top pick QB Jamarcus Russell would later in the day come off the bench and save the Jets? This by rescuing the Raiders against hated rivals the Denver Broncos? Now forget the convoluted wildcard math for a moment, and focus in on this. Santa needs to leave a W by the Jets Christmas tree. Without a win, the Jets are no longer part of the conversation. Period. With a win that will shock the league, out will come the math and combos needed for the Jets to play past December. Gotta beat those Colts though.
It won't be easy. Or will it? Nobody can quite tell if and when Indy coach Jim Caldwell will take out his starters. With home field in the AFC wrapped up, all there is to play for is an undefeated season. All there is to lose is the health of key players. Will it be worth it to the Colts brass just to go 16-0?. It's certainly an incredible accomplishment that the Colts have come close twice to obtaining with Manning under center. But will hard hits on the future first ballot hall of fame QB, should they occur, be worth accumulating in a game that matters only for the history books? What if pass rushing killer Dwight Freeney rushes around end and gets nicked up on the play? How far will the Colts be willing to go to win this game at full throttle? The Jets BETTER expect the Colts to go all the way. Anything less will leave the team flat and unprepared mentally for the challenge of outscoring a team second only to the Saints in total points, second to the Pats in points per game with 22.1 (Pats average 23.3) and fourth in yards per game at 383.00 per game.
Peyton Manning leads all passers in passing yards with 4,213 and perennial All pro WR Reggie Wayne is second in receiving yards with 1210, trailing only Andre Johnson, who Darrelle Revis shut down in the season opener at Houston this year. Revis will have to come up big once again as he's done all year against every top wideout the Jets have faced. TE Dallas Clark is having maybe his best year leading all tight ends in receiving yards while averaging 11.2 yards a catch. Expect once benched FS Kerry Rhodes, who has been playing great since the benching, to take that assignment on. Just as he did admirably against Tony Gonzalez for most of the Atlanta game. Versatile pass catching RB Joseph Addai missed practice Thursday due to personal issues but tough rookie out of UConn, Donald Brown, could fill in and keep the ground game going well should Addai miss Sunday's battle.
Defensive ends Dwight Freeney and Robert Mathis have combined for 23 sacks this season. These two must be blocked by D' Brickashaw Ferguson and Damien Woody with the help of the Jets running backs, if Sanchez is to have any chance throwing it downfield. The last game Sanchez threw with confidence, threw downfield effectively, may have been the loss to Miami in week 5 on Monday night. The Jets, will surely start the game with an initial game plan to "Ground and Pound" it with RB Thomas Jones and rookie Shonn Greene with a little Danny Woodhead mixed in. However, if and when the dam breaks on defense, the Jets could find themselves down two scores earlier than they'd like. Keeping Freeney and Mathis locked up will be the first of three essential steps the Jets will need to complete in order to hang with the Colts. The second will be confident decision making and accurate throws by the rookie QB out of USC. Third, Jet receivers will need to hold on to the catchable balls and also make a few tough grabs along the way. Hear that Braylon Edwards? Yards cannot be left on the field this week. A return to that confidence that was there in week 5, a long time ago, may be needed in a hurry on Sunday.
There are those in the media who DO give the Jets a chance this week, yet solely based on the assumption that the Colts won't finish the game with their starters. The truth is, if Revis and Rhodes can make Wayne and Clark pedestrian, if Rex Ryan's defense can pressure Manning at times, and Sanchez can regain an early season swagger that will not allow the Colts to keep eight in the box, the Jets can beat the Colts. WITH their starters. The real question is, can the Jets shut down two big passing game targets, get pressure on the QB, and attack through the air despite a shaky second half passing resume all on the same day? The answer to that difficult trifecta is days away but at least the three keys puts the onus on the Jets, not on the personnel decisions made by the Colts staff. Or the mindset of Santa Claus in determining which team has been naughty or nice this season.
THREE KEYS TO THE COLTS GAME:
Sanchez get in the time machine: C'mon Mark, let's travel back to week 5 and Miami , when you brought the Jets back twice, played a carefree confident style in the pocket and GOT results. Tentative late throws won't help this week. In fact, they'll contribute to a rout. Dustin Keller Jerricho Cotchery, Braylon Edwards, it's time to break out, all at once. 300 yards in the air for the first time this season. Let's do it.
Stop the Bermuda Triangle: Manning Wayne and Clark are a deathtrap. True there is Pierre Garcon, Austin Collie and others, we know that. Yet It's those three that do the most damage. Clark is hard to jam at the line. Rhodes will need help but
what is Rex Ryan's choice? PRessure Manning to speed up release time, have Revis shut down Wayne and Clark bothered play in play out, and there is hope.
Get burned by this trio and you can warm up the buses by halftime. Oh, and THEN you'll see Colts second unit.
DESPERATION; MOTIVATION If the Jets DON'T come out with the same urgency and desperation that the Giants did in Washington Monday night, kiss 2009 goodbye. If the Colts come out highly motivated to stay perfect in 2009, kiss it goodbye as well. What the Jets could really afford, is a combo of playing desperate against a complacent Colts team that has it's sights already set on the Super Bowl in February. For the Jets, Sunday HAS to be THEIR Super Bowl.
follow TJ Rosenthal on twitter @ thejetreport
by TJ Rosenthal for Football Reporters Online
The Jets very own "Super Bowl" may very well be taking place at 4pm in Lucas Oil stadium. At 7-7 and needing help, the once 3-0 Gang Green take on the 14-0 Indianapolis Colts, needing to win in order to save the 2009 season. How many lives has Gang Green had? LB Bart SCott said jokingly "twelve." This after Rex Ryan called the season over after the horrifying last minute loss to Atlanta 10-7 that stripped the Jets of control of their own destiny from here on out. Who knew that the Raiders much maligned former top pick QB Jamarcus Russell would later in the day come off the bench and save the Jets? This by rescuing the Raiders against hated rivals the Denver Broncos? Now forget the convoluted wildcard math for a moment, and focus in on this. Santa needs to leave a W by the Jets Christmas tree. Without a win, the Jets are no longer part of the conversation. Period. With a win that will shock the league, out will come the math and combos needed for the Jets to play past December. Gotta beat those Colts though.
It won't be easy. Or will it? Nobody can quite tell if and when Indy coach Jim Caldwell will take out his starters. With home field in the AFC wrapped up, all there is to play for is an undefeated season. All there is to lose is the health of key players. Will it be worth it to the Colts brass just to go 16-0?. It's certainly an incredible accomplishment that the Colts have come close twice to obtaining with Manning under center. But will hard hits on the future first ballot hall of fame QB, should they occur, be worth accumulating in a game that matters only for the history books? What if pass rushing killer Dwight Freeney rushes around end and gets nicked up on the play? How far will the Colts be willing to go to win this game at full throttle? The Jets BETTER expect the Colts to go all the way. Anything less will leave the team flat and unprepared mentally for the challenge of outscoring a team second only to the Saints in total points, second to the Pats in points per game with 22.1 (Pats average 23.3) and fourth in yards per game at 383.00 per game.
Peyton Manning leads all passers in passing yards with 4,213 and perennial All pro WR Reggie Wayne is second in receiving yards with 1210, trailing only Andre Johnson, who Darrelle Revis shut down in the season opener at Houston this year. Revis will have to come up big once again as he's done all year against every top wideout the Jets have faced. TE Dallas Clark is having maybe his best year leading all tight ends in receiving yards while averaging 11.2 yards a catch. Expect once benched FS Kerry Rhodes, who has been playing great since the benching, to take that assignment on. Just as he did admirably against Tony Gonzalez for most of the Atlanta game. Versatile pass catching RB Joseph Addai missed practice Thursday due to personal issues but tough rookie out of UConn, Donald Brown, could fill in and keep the ground game going well should Addai miss Sunday's battle.
Defensive ends Dwight Freeney and Robert Mathis have combined for 23 sacks this season. These two must be blocked by D' Brickashaw Ferguson and Damien Woody with the help of the Jets running backs, if Sanchez is to have any chance throwing it downfield. The last game Sanchez threw with confidence, threw downfield effectively, may have been the loss to Miami in week 5 on Monday night. The Jets, will surely start the game with an initial game plan to "Ground and Pound" it with RB Thomas Jones and rookie Shonn Greene with a little Danny Woodhead mixed in. However, if and when the dam breaks on defense, the Jets could find themselves down two scores earlier than they'd like. Keeping Freeney and Mathis locked up will be the first of three essential steps the Jets will need to complete in order to hang with the Colts. The second will be confident decision making and accurate throws by the rookie QB out of USC. Third, Jet receivers will need to hold on to the catchable balls and also make a few tough grabs along the way. Hear that Braylon Edwards? Yards cannot be left on the field this week. A return to that confidence that was there in week 5, a long time ago, may be needed in a hurry on Sunday.
There are those in the media who DO give the Jets a chance this week, yet solely based on the assumption that the Colts won't finish the game with their starters. The truth is, if Revis and Rhodes can make Wayne and Clark pedestrian, if Rex Ryan's defense can pressure Manning at times, and Sanchez can regain an early season swagger that will not allow the Colts to keep eight in the box, the Jets can beat the Colts. WITH their starters. The real question is, can the Jets shut down two big passing game targets, get pressure on the QB, and attack through the air despite a shaky second half passing resume all on the same day? The answer to that difficult trifecta is days away but at least the three keys puts the onus on the Jets, not on the personnel decisions made by the Colts staff. Or the mindset of Santa Claus in determining which team has been naughty or nice this season.
THREE KEYS TO THE COLTS GAME:
Sanchez get in the time machine: C'mon Mark, let's travel back to week 5 and Miami , when you brought the Jets back twice, played a carefree confident style in the pocket and GOT results. Tentative late throws won't help this week. In fact, they'll contribute to a rout. Dustin Keller Jerricho Cotchery, Braylon Edwards, it's time to break out, all at once. 300 yards in the air for the first time this season. Let's do it.
Stop the Bermuda Triangle: Manning Wayne and Clark are a deathtrap. True there is Pierre Garcon, Austin Collie and others, we know that. Yet It's those three that do the most damage. Clark is hard to jam at the line. Rhodes will need help but
what is Rex Ryan's choice? PRessure Manning to speed up release time, have Revis shut down Wayne and Clark bothered play in play out, and there is hope.
Get burned by this trio and you can warm up the buses by halftime. Oh, and THEN you'll see Colts second unit.
DESPERATION; MOTIVATION If the Jets DON'T come out with the same urgency and desperation that the Giants did in Washington Monday night, kiss 2009 goodbye. If the Colts come out highly motivated to stay perfect in 2009, kiss it goodbye as well. What the Jets could really afford, is a combo of playing desperate against a complacent Colts team that has it's sights already set on the Super Bowl in February. For the Jets, Sunday HAS to be THEIR Super Bowl.
follow TJ Rosenthal on twitter @ thejetreport
FANTASY FOOTBALL TALK-Looking under the hood of Week 15
FANTASY FOOTBALL TALK-By David Ortega for Football Reporters Online
Looking under the hood of Week 15
Do what you do best!....
Even though they may not have anything left to play for in the regular season, it may make great sense for Philip Rivers and the Chargers to keep doing what they do best. Over the past two and a half months only the Colts have been as good and no one's been better than Rivers. The Chargers have rattled off nine straight wins and look like a formidable opponent for everyone heading into the post season. Why? It's very simple, Rivers has mastered the art of the vertical game. In his last nine starts Rivers has thrown 18 touchdowns and passed for 263-yards per game. He has been unbeatable as a starter (17-0) in December and appears poised to lead San Diego deep in the playoffs. Fantasy owners would agree Rivers should keep doing what he does best.
If it ain't Broke don't fix-it....
The Colts have been in this precarious position once before and to put it simply, "don't fix things if they ain't broke." The Colts offense led by Peyton Manning has been not only outstanding, but at times this season it has been dominant. Manning is the epitome of consistency and every week he seems to be in a class of his own, finding ways to keep winning. While the Colts remain unbeaten they have not been perfect, but when Manning (33 touchdowns in 2009) passes for 300 yards every game (nine times this season) they are awful tough to beat. With two games left and a chance for an unbeaten season, the Colts really want to keep riding that winning feeling right into the post season. Rest may seem like a good idea, but when you have an offense and a Peyton Manning firing on all pistons while tamper with that formula. If it ain't broke, don't fix it.; let your players play.
Expect the Eagles to keep soaring.....
The Eagles and Donovan McNabb may be one of the few favorite fantasy offenses left this season with great incentive to go out this weekend and keep doing what they do best. McNabb was banged up a bit early in the season, but since has begun to take flight with his explosive Eagles offense (28.5 points per game/ranked 2nd). One of the keys has been the explosive DeSean Jackson (8 touchdowns) and McNabbs favorite red-zone target tight end Brent Celek (7 touchdowns). The Eagles are now using a full rotation of receiving opitons; last Sunday against the Niners McNabb completed passes to eight different receivers. With Brian Westbrook expected to return to action this week, there's really no reason to expect anything different from Andy Reid's offense. It should be all about passing and scoring once again as McNabb will look to soar on Sunday against the Broncos.
More fantasy Notes
The Texans quarterback Matt Schaub appears to be just warming up. With consecutive 360-yard passing games and three touchdowns to just one pick, Schaub looks like a lock to have a big passing day against a Dolphins secondary (ranked 23rd against the pass) that surrendered three touchdown passes to the Titans last Sunday.
The Niner's offense in recent weeks has managed to get back to the basics and hand the ball to running back Frank Gore. With 41 carries in his last two starts Gore has ran for 274 yards on the ground and scored once. With the Lions (ranked 24th against the run) and Rams (ranked 27th against the run) next on the schedule Gore looks to finish strong in 2009.
The Dolphins running back Ricky Williams has been making the most of his oppoprtunity as the team's featured running back with Ronnie Brown on IR. Williams is averaging nearly 100 yards per game over his last six games and has scored six times. With the Texans (ranked 17th against the run) up next Williams looks to be a very good start in Week 16 for fantasy owners.
Quietly and before anyone could forget about him the Chargers superstar receiver Vincent Jackson is back at it doing what he does so well. The playmaking wideout has put together back to back 100 yard receiving games while snagging 12 balls along the way. This past Sunday against the Bengals he was a one man wrecking creew catching two passes for scores. Although the Titans are healthy and playing well, because of his 6'5" frame, Jackson is always a tough matchup and a must play.
Very much under the fantasy radar, the Packers tight end Jermichael Finley has been a solid go to receiver for the past several weeks. In his last three games Finley is averaging a cool 74 yard receiving with a total of 21 receptions. The tight end also has three touchdowns over the same span and looks to continue to be the Packers go-to target over the middle. Next week he'll have a very good matchup against the Seahawks 29th ranked pass defense.
Looking under the hood of Week 15
Do what you do best!....
Even though they may not have anything left to play for in the regular season, it may make great sense for Philip Rivers and the Chargers to keep doing what they do best. Over the past two and a half months only the Colts have been as good and no one's been better than Rivers. The Chargers have rattled off nine straight wins and look like a formidable opponent for everyone heading into the post season. Why? It's very simple, Rivers has mastered the art of the vertical game. In his last nine starts Rivers has thrown 18 touchdowns and passed for 263-yards per game. He has been unbeatable as a starter (17-0) in December and appears poised to lead San Diego deep in the playoffs. Fantasy owners would agree Rivers should keep doing what he does best.
If it ain't Broke don't fix-it....
The Colts have been in this precarious position once before and to put it simply, "don't fix things if they ain't broke." The Colts offense led by Peyton Manning has been not only outstanding, but at times this season it has been dominant. Manning is the epitome of consistency and every week he seems to be in a class of his own, finding ways to keep winning. While the Colts remain unbeaten they have not been perfect, but when Manning (33 touchdowns in 2009) passes for 300 yards every game (nine times this season) they are awful tough to beat. With two games left and a chance for an unbeaten season, the Colts really want to keep riding that winning feeling right into the post season. Rest may seem like a good idea, but when you have an offense and a Peyton Manning firing on all pistons while tamper with that formula. If it ain't broke, don't fix it.; let your players play.
Expect the Eagles to keep soaring.....
The Eagles and Donovan McNabb may be one of the few favorite fantasy offenses left this season with great incentive to go out this weekend and keep doing what they do best. McNabb was banged up a bit early in the season, but since has begun to take flight with his explosive Eagles offense (28.5 points per game/ranked 2nd). One of the keys has been the explosive DeSean Jackson (8 touchdowns) and McNabbs favorite red-zone target tight end Brent Celek (7 touchdowns). The Eagles are now using a full rotation of receiving opitons; last Sunday against the Niners McNabb completed passes to eight different receivers. With Brian Westbrook expected to return to action this week, there's really no reason to expect anything different from Andy Reid's offense. It should be all about passing and scoring once again as McNabb will look to soar on Sunday against the Broncos.
More fantasy Notes
The Texans quarterback Matt Schaub appears to be just warming up. With consecutive 360-yard passing games and three touchdowns to just one pick, Schaub looks like a lock to have a big passing day against a Dolphins secondary (ranked 23rd against the pass) that surrendered three touchdown passes to the Titans last Sunday.
The Niner's offense in recent weeks has managed to get back to the basics and hand the ball to running back Frank Gore. With 41 carries in his last two starts Gore has ran for 274 yards on the ground and scored once. With the Lions (ranked 24th against the run) and Rams (ranked 27th against the run) next on the schedule Gore looks to finish strong in 2009.
The Dolphins running back Ricky Williams has been making the most of his oppoprtunity as the team's featured running back with Ronnie Brown on IR. Williams is averaging nearly 100 yards per game over his last six games and has scored six times. With the Texans (ranked 17th against the run) up next Williams looks to be a very good start in Week 16 for fantasy owners.
Quietly and before anyone could forget about him the Chargers superstar receiver Vincent Jackson is back at it doing what he does so well. The playmaking wideout has put together back to back 100 yard receiving games while snagging 12 balls along the way. This past Sunday against the Bengals he was a one man wrecking creew catching two passes for scores. Although the Titans are healthy and playing well, because of his 6'5" frame, Jackson is always a tough matchup and a must play.
Very much under the fantasy radar, the Packers tight end Jermichael Finley has been a solid go to receiver for the past several weeks. In his last three games Finley is averaging a cool 74 yard receiving with a total of 21 receptions. The tight end also has three touchdowns over the same span and looks to continue to be the Packers go-to target over the middle. Next week he'll have a very good matchup against the Seahawks 29th ranked pass defense.
The Morning Huddle-a Look back at week 15
The Morning Huddle-By David Ortega for Football Reporters Online
(Just some thoughts from Sunday)
As we watched the games being played on Sunday in Week 15, it was not hard to note of couple of obvious facts that fantasy owners will be thinking about when looking ahead to 2010.
Looking at 2010
Can't-Misses...
After watching his performances thus far in the fantasy playoffs, its safe to say that Matt Schaub has proven he is fantasy royalty; 25 touchdowns and eight 300-yard passing games in 2009, and has started every game this season for Houston.
With three 300-yard passing games in his last four starts and a total of seven this season, fantasy owners should be convinced that quarterback Tony Romo is among the fantasy favorites. If not, his 23 touchdowns this season with just seven picks should be more than enough to state his case.
Fantasy owners that had wide receiver Roddy White in their lineups on Sunday found out the hard way, a tough lesson learned. Do not start a fantasy receiver matched up with the Jets cornerback Darrelle Revis. White finished the day with just four catches for 33 yards. This will be something on fantasy owners "what to avoid" watch-list for 2010 (or it should be).
What I Saw in Week 15
Manning is still determined....
the Colts quarterback Peyton Manning doesn't look like he wants to sit out and the way he's playing he can still do a lot of damage even in one half of play. Fantasy owners might be concerned about how much he'll play in Week 16, but even if he's limited last Thursday night against the Jaguars Manning still scored 16 fantasy points in the first half alone. Even though the Colts will face Darrelle Revis and the Jets, Peyton still has a too many weapons to choose from; he should be a safe play.
There's no mystery in New Orleans....
With all the committees on offense that the Saints running, countless receivers, multiple running backs in the backfield, there is no real mystery here. The only reliable fantasy play in New Orleans is their quarterback Drew Brees. Although Brees only scored 13 fantasy points on Saturday night against the Cowboys, in his last five games Brees is averaging more than 25 fantasy points. Like the Colts, the Saints could be limiting the play of their starters in the coming weeks, but like his counterpart in Indy Brees could do just enough damage for owners in a single half. It would be very difficult to sit him.
Quick Notes:
The Chiefs running back Jamaal Charles could very well be a early round draft pick in most fantasy leagues next season. He's making a great argument in any case with two consecutive 100-yard rushing games and six straight games with at least one score.
Marshall continues to be the Broncos primary and in some case only weapon in the passing game. In each of his last four games he has caught six or more passes and has scored in his last three. For the season Marshall has 93 catches for 1,081 yards with a career high 10-touchdowns.
10 Things I remember
1. The Bills inept offense continues to struggle with the pass regardless of who is under center. Once again wide receiver Terrell Owens was a non-factor catching just two passes for 20 yards.
2. On Sunday the Browns ran all through the Chiefs defense, but it wasn't the Cribbs-Jennings show. On Sunday it was all about Jerome Harrison as he ran for 286 yards to help the Browns win their third game this season.
3. The Jets focused on the run (29 runs) Sunday against the Falcons, but could never get the ground game out of the gate. Running back Thomas Jones led the team with 19 carries for 52 yards.
4. To answer the question, can Schaub be special two weeks in a row; with 367 yards passing, a touchdown pass, and a win on the road yes he can.
5. It doesn't matter who Chris Johnson faces in 2009, there is no stopping the Titans running back. Johnson totaled 159 yards (104-rushing, 55-receiving) on Sunday to help lead Tennessee back to a .500 record.
6. Kurt Warner's performance Sunday against the Lions was hardly any kind of redemption, but his 233 yards passing and two scoring throws were enough for the Cards to win at Detroit.
7. It wasn't the kind of day fantasy owners were expecting from the Broncos running back Knowshon Moreno, although he did total 81 yards for the day.
8. Even without a couple of his horses, the Eagles quarterback Donovan McNabb has plenty of weapons to target; 306 yards passing and two touchdowns (one passing, one rushing).
9. It wasn't a six pack being served at Heinz Filed on Sunday as the Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger out-duel the Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers. Rodgers passed for 383 yards and three scores, while Big Ben tossed up five bills (503 yards) and three scores of his own in the win.
10. The Bengals honored their fallen teammate on Sunday with a valiant effort against the Chargers. Led by Carson Palmer (314 yards passing, two touchdowns) and Chad Ochocinco (105 total yards, one touchdown) the Bengals battled this one down to the wire, but came up just short when Chargers kicker Nate Kaeding booted a 52-yard game winner with less than a minute to play.
(Just some thoughts from Sunday)
As we watched the games being played on Sunday in Week 15, it was not hard to note of couple of obvious facts that fantasy owners will be thinking about when looking ahead to 2010.
Looking at 2010
Can't-Misses...
After watching his performances thus far in the fantasy playoffs, its safe to say that Matt Schaub has proven he is fantasy royalty; 25 touchdowns and eight 300-yard passing games in 2009, and has started every game this season for Houston.
With three 300-yard passing games in his last four starts and a total of seven this season, fantasy owners should be convinced that quarterback Tony Romo is among the fantasy favorites. If not, his 23 touchdowns this season with just seven picks should be more than enough to state his case.
Fantasy owners that had wide receiver Roddy White in their lineups on Sunday found out the hard way, a tough lesson learned. Do not start a fantasy receiver matched up with the Jets cornerback Darrelle Revis. White finished the day with just four catches for 33 yards. This will be something on fantasy owners "what to avoid" watch-list for 2010 (or it should be).
What I Saw in Week 15
Manning is still determined....
the Colts quarterback Peyton Manning doesn't look like he wants to sit out and the way he's playing he can still do a lot of damage even in one half of play. Fantasy owners might be concerned about how much he'll play in Week 16, but even if he's limited last Thursday night against the Jaguars Manning still scored 16 fantasy points in the first half alone. Even though the Colts will face Darrelle Revis and the Jets, Peyton still has a too many weapons to choose from; he should be a safe play.
There's no mystery in New Orleans....
With all the committees on offense that the Saints running, countless receivers, multiple running backs in the backfield, there is no real mystery here. The only reliable fantasy play in New Orleans is their quarterback Drew Brees. Although Brees only scored 13 fantasy points on Saturday night against the Cowboys, in his last five games Brees is averaging more than 25 fantasy points. Like the Colts, the Saints could be limiting the play of their starters in the coming weeks, but like his counterpart in Indy Brees could do just enough damage for owners in a single half. It would be very difficult to sit him.
Quick Notes:
The Chiefs running back Jamaal Charles could very well be a early round draft pick in most fantasy leagues next season. He's making a great argument in any case with two consecutive 100-yard rushing games and six straight games with at least one score.
Marshall continues to be the Broncos primary and in some case only weapon in the passing game. In each of his last four games he has caught six or more passes and has scored in his last three. For the season Marshall has 93 catches for 1,081 yards with a career high 10-touchdowns.
10 Things I remember
1. The Bills inept offense continues to struggle with the pass regardless of who is under center. Once again wide receiver Terrell Owens was a non-factor catching just two passes for 20 yards.
2. On Sunday the Browns ran all through the Chiefs defense, but it wasn't the Cribbs-Jennings show. On Sunday it was all about Jerome Harrison as he ran for 286 yards to help the Browns win their third game this season.
3. The Jets focused on the run (29 runs) Sunday against the Falcons, but could never get the ground game out of the gate. Running back Thomas Jones led the team with 19 carries for 52 yards.
4. To answer the question, can Schaub be special two weeks in a row; with 367 yards passing, a touchdown pass, and a win on the road yes he can.
5. It doesn't matter who Chris Johnson faces in 2009, there is no stopping the Titans running back. Johnson totaled 159 yards (104-rushing, 55-receiving) on Sunday to help lead Tennessee back to a .500 record.
6. Kurt Warner's performance Sunday against the Lions was hardly any kind of redemption, but his 233 yards passing and two scoring throws were enough for the Cards to win at Detroit.
7. It wasn't the kind of day fantasy owners were expecting from the Broncos running back Knowshon Moreno, although he did total 81 yards for the day.
8. Even without a couple of his horses, the Eagles quarterback Donovan McNabb has plenty of weapons to target; 306 yards passing and two touchdowns (one passing, one rushing).
9. It wasn't a six pack being served at Heinz Filed on Sunday as the Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger out-duel the Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers. Rodgers passed for 383 yards and three scores, while Big Ben tossed up five bills (503 yards) and three scores of his own in the win.
10. The Bengals honored their fallen teammate on Sunday with a valiant effort against the Chargers. Led by Carson Palmer (314 yards passing, two touchdowns) and Chad Ochocinco (105 total yards, one touchdown) the Bengals battled this one down to the wire, but came up just short when Chargers kicker Nate Kaeding booted a 52-yard game winner with less than a minute to play.
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