Boys, another Equalizer season in the books and it was a good one. We saw some shrewd management (Kaier, Froats) and some not so good (myself). We saw major suspensions and big time injuries, as well as the emergence of some future stars (particularly at the WR position). I would say this was one of the more memorable NFL seasons of late, and mostly for activities off the field (still waiting on that Goodell resignation after the arbitrator in the Ray Rice case essentially confirmed Goodell not only dropped the ball but was not 100% truthful in his comments regarding the investigation).
First of all, a congratulations is in order for Evan for surviving the failed Montee Ball experiment and starting Marques Colston at wide out at times. Of course the tandem of Brown and Bell in the Steeler black and yellow certainly helps, as well as the emergence of Kelvin Benjamin (on what still might be a playoff bound Carolina team).
However the main purpose of this post is to reach out to you guys for feedback on the blog for this season. I was a little inconsistent in getting content on here some weeks (you know, work) but as I get a better idea of what you guys would like to see it'll get easier. So give it to me straight boys, if it was all useless bull shit, please let me know. If you found some of it useful or entertaining, let me know that too. And I would gladly entertain any ideas for future content for next year, things you would like to see or see done differently. And as always, if you are interested in contributing, just provide me with an email address and I'll add you to the blog. Now let's raise our glasses to once again congratulate Evan on a well-deserved title, and to the forth-coming 2015 Pandemonium championship (it's all I want for Christmas)!!!
Sunday, December 21, 2014
Tuesday, December 9, 2014
BAMA Watch '14- Week 14
Two weeks down and one to go before a new ankle is primed for ensnarement! Things were tight at the bottom last week, but the Chipalopes realized their dire circumstance and put together a very solid week. The Panties couldn't do the same, and stay fully secured in last place. Brad is going to need a miracle final week to jump ahead of the Rough Riders, who stand 48 points in front of a full year of shame. Those Chipalopes are only one point behind the Riders, so things could get interesting with any debacles between these two. The Old Guys and Pandemonium are more than guaranteed a pass this year, so breathe easy fellas. And how 'bout them Dirtdogs? Basement adjacent for most of this season, Andrew was able to whip his team into shape and avoid the BAMA for what would have no doubt been a devastating second straight year. So let's sit back, relax, and see how this whole crazy thing wraps up.
1. Ethan's Mom's Panties- 147
2. Saskatchewan Rough Riders- 195
3. Redwood Chipalopes- 196
4. SGF Dirtdogs- 211
5. PB Pandemonium- 225
6. The Old Guys Club- 263
4. SGF Dirtdogs- 211
5. PB Pandemonium- 225
6. The Old Guys Club- 263
Tuesday, December 2, 2014
BAMA Watch '14- Week 13
With the playoffs comes everyone's favorite league segment- BAMA Watch!
Six teams are competing this year for The Equalizer's lowest honor. Coming into week 13, the odds favored Ethan's Mom's Panties, who grabbed last place during the regular season in points scored. However, the Rough Riders and Dirtdogs both scored less than 1200 points on the season, so anything could happen. Let's get to this week's results.
T1. Ethan's Mom's Panties & Redwood Chipalopes- 83 pts.
3. SGF Dirtdogs- 97 pts.
4. PB Pandemonium- 113 pts.
5. The Old Guys Club- 140 pts.
6. Saskatchewan Rough Riders- 142 pts.
As expected, Kervin's team gets out to a hold on first place, but he unexpectedly has company. LJ's Chipalopes were so close to making the playoffs, and that defeat last week must have really demoralized this team. Also a surprise, at the other end of the standings, is Cullen's team grabbing an almost sixty point edge on the first place teams. The Rough Riders will not go quietly into the night this off-season. Last year's champ The Old Guys Club clearly has no intentions of going first to worst with a very respectable 140 points. Already this BAMA Watch looks like a three team race with two weeks to go. Grab your popcorn, this should be a helluva show.
Six teams are competing this year for The Equalizer's lowest honor. Coming into week 13, the odds favored Ethan's Mom's Panties, who grabbed last place during the regular season in points scored. However, the Rough Riders and Dirtdogs both scored less than 1200 points on the season, so anything could happen. Let's get to this week's results.
T1. Ethan's Mom's Panties & Redwood Chipalopes- 83 pts.
3. SGF Dirtdogs- 97 pts.
4. PB Pandemonium- 113 pts.
5. The Old Guys Club- 140 pts.
6. Saskatchewan Rough Riders- 142 pts.
As expected, Kervin's team gets out to a hold on first place, but he unexpectedly has company. LJ's Chipalopes were so close to making the playoffs, and that defeat last week must have really demoralized this team. Also a surprise, at the other end of the standings, is Cullen's team grabbing an almost sixty point edge on the first place teams. The Rough Riders will not go quietly into the night this off-season. Last year's champ The Old Guys Club clearly has no intentions of going first to worst with a very respectable 140 points. Already this BAMA Watch looks like a three team race with two weeks to go. Grab your popcorn, this should be a helluva show.
Wednesday, November 26, 2014
Equalizer Playoff Preview
And in classic Pandemonium fashion, I suffer a one-point defeat at the hands of my former placekicker to cap a 4-game losing streak and miss the 2014 Equalizer playoffs once again. Props out to Legault and the Roc City Super Dudes for their performance in crunch time and sneaking in there with the 6th and final playoff spot. Even bigger props to Dan's management of the Force this season in turning around an 0-4 start to win 8 straight and grab the number 2 spot in the playoffs, securing a first round bye as well. It's that front office acumen that keeps the Force in contention year in and year out.
I figured with the brackets now set, we could take a look at favorites to capture the Equalizer championship this year, as well as an early favorite for the BAMA.
Matchup Previews:
Ants in my Eyes Collins vs. Roc City Super Dudes - My preseason number one and two teams meet in the 3 vs. 6 seed game of round 1 of the playoffs. The Dudes post their second best scoring performance of the season in week 12 to secure that final spot, and are riding high heading into the playoffs. The emergence of CJ Anderson has been an absolute godsend for this team, with Lamar Miller and Ryan Matthews being banged up and Joique Bell being relatively ineffective. Rashad Jennings is getting healthy at exactly the right time and Tony Romo is playing some really good football right now. Julio Jones and Alshon Jeffery are always candidates to explode at the WR position, the Dudes team is trending in the right direction. Actually has a very good week matchup wise other than the usage of the Chiefs defense. Not only do they play Denver this week, but the Dudes will also likely be starting CJ Anderson in this game. What kinda game are you trying to play Legault? On the Ants side, which one of Ethan's 26 RB's will get the nod this week? It's a tough pick, with Vereen and the Pats playing a soft GB run defense (leading me to believe Blount/Gray will be featured), Thomas still getting healthy, and Bryce Brown relegated to RB3 duty in Buffalo with Fred Jackson back in the lineup. However the receiving corps of this Ants team can help pick up the slack in the RB crew. Dez Bryant is a man on a mission right now, and AJ Green looks really good recovering from the toe injury. Add two viable flex plays in Jordan Matthews and Julian Edelman, and the pass catchers on this Ants team are one of the best in the league. Favorable matchups for all except perhaps Edelman (Good pass D and pass rush in GB), can the pass catchers on this team make up for a potential lack of RB production? I say no, with Russell Wilson in a tough matchup this week and the Packers defense playing one of the hottest teams in the league right now in the NE Patriots (potentially the game of the year on Sunday). I like the Dudes to pull off the upset and then run into the buzz saw that has been Touch my TD's this season.
The Fat Cats vs. Las Vegas Outlaws - The Outlaws have fallen on hard times recently at the RB position, now starting Trent Richardson as their RB2. However, smartly snagged Latavius Murray off the waiver wires, the Oakland Raiders future franchise RB (for what that's worth). Murray does not have an ideal matchup this week against the improving St. Louis Rams, but are you gonna start Trent Richardson? Does boast absolute studs in Leveon Bell, Antonio Brown, and Kelvin Benjamin that all have semi-favorable matchups this week (if Justin Forsett's game Monday night is any indication, Leveon Bell should explode). Flacco has not been a fantasy stalwart this season, and the Outlaws need some serious production out of Martellus Bennett to grab a victory in this game. On the Cats side, looks like they're back to the same Cats we saw blowing people out to begin the season. Has only scored less than 100 points twice this season, despite some injuries to key personnel, and has posted a more than respectable 410 points the past three weeks (for a 137 point weekly average). Other than Jordy Nelson and his trip to Revis Island this weekend, none of the matchups for key players on the Cats really concern you. I like Megatron to have a monsterrrrr Thanksgiving day game and Jimmy Graham should eat up the Pittsburgh linebacking crew and secondary. Tre Mason might be worthy of a flex play this weekend against a weak Oakland run defense and Steve Smith posted a nice game on Monday night. Things are setting up pretty nicely for the Cats, and I like them to move on this week to face the red hot Force in a battle of fantasy titans in the second round.
Early BAMA Favorite:
Ethan's Mom's Panties - Sorry Brad, but I had to toss this in here. Hard to recover when your franchise cornerstone is caught up in a big dick contest with Roger Goodell. Made a smart move to acquire a cheap keeper in Jeremy Hill over Rodger's increasingly expensive price tag each season, but after that things aren't too promising. McKinnon is just not getting enough touches to be effective at the position right now, and Asiata vulturing TD's as well as the addition of Ben Tate do not bode well for that to change. James Jones has been hit or miss on a bad Oakland team. Andre Johnson may not know who is throwing him the football on Sunday. And anytime you are starting two Jaguars, you might be in trouble. Without going any farther and further damaging my already low fantasy karma, the Panties that belong to Ethan's Mom look to be in a position to be sporting that beautiful pink anklet (although not too pink anymore) for the next 365.
I figured with the brackets now set, we could take a look at favorites to capture the Equalizer championship this year, as well as an early favorite for the BAMA.
Matchup Previews:
Ants in my Eyes Collins vs. Roc City Super Dudes - My preseason number one and two teams meet in the 3 vs. 6 seed game of round 1 of the playoffs. The Dudes post their second best scoring performance of the season in week 12 to secure that final spot, and are riding high heading into the playoffs. The emergence of CJ Anderson has been an absolute godsend for this team, with Lamar Miller and Ryan Matthews being banged up and Joique Bell being relatively ineffective. Rashad Jennings is getting healthy at exactly the right time and Tony Romo is playing some really good football right now. Julio Jones and Alshon Jeffery are always candidates to explode at the WR position, the Dudes team is trending in the right direction. Actually has a very good week matchup wise other than the usage of the Chiefs defense. Not only do they play Denver this week, but the Dudes will also likely be starting CJ Anderson in this game. What kinda game are you trying to play Legault? On the Ants side, which one of Ethan's 26 RB's will get the nod this week? It's a tough pick, with Vereen and the Pats playing a soft GB run defense (leading me to believe Blount/Gray will be featured), Thomas still getting healthy, and Bryce Brown relegated to RB3 duty in Buffalo with Fred Jackson back in the lineup. However the receiving corps of this Ants team can help pick up the slack in the RB crew. Dez Bryant is a man on a mission right now, and AJ Green looks really good recovering from the toe injury. Add two viable flex plays in Jordan Matthews and Julian Edelman, and the pass catchers on this Ants team are one of the best in the league. Favorable matchups for all except perhaps Edelman (Good pass D and pass rush in GB), can the pass catchers on this team make up for a potential lack of RB production? I say no, with Russell Wilson in a tough matchup this week and the Packers defense playing one of the hottest teams in the league right now in the NE Patriots (potentially the game of the year on Sunday). I like the Dudes to pull off the upset and then run into the buzz saw that has been Touch my TD's this season.
The Fat Cats vs. Las Vegas Outlaws - The Outlaws have fallen on hard times recently at the RB position, now starting Trent Richardson as their RB2. However, smartly snagged Latavius Murray off the waiver wires, the Oakland Raiders future franchise RB (for what that's worth). Murray does not have an ideal matchup this week against the improving St. Louis Rams, but are you gonna start Trent Richardson? Does boast absolute studs in Leveon Bell, Antonio Brown, and Kelvin Benjamin that all have semi-favorable matchups this week (if Justin Forsett's game Monday night is any indication, Leveon Bell should explode). Flacco has not been a fantasy stalwart this season, and the Outlaws need some serious production out of Martellus Bennett to grab a victory in this game. On the Cats side, looks like they're back to the same Cats we saw blowing people out to begin the season. Has only scored less than 100 points twice this season, despite some injuries to key personnel, and has posted a more than respectable 410 points the past three weeks (for a 137 point weekly average). Other than Jordy Nelson and his trip to Revis Island this weekend, none of the matchups for key players on the Cats really concern you. I like Megatron to have a monsterrrrr Thanksgiving day game and Jimmy Graham should eat up the Pittsburgh linebacking crew and secondary. Tre Mason might be worthy of a flex play this weekend against a weak Oakland run defense and Steve Smith posted a nice game on Monday night. Things are setting up pretty nicely for the Cats, and I like them to move on this week to face the red hot Force in a battle of fantasy titans in the second round.
Early BAMA Favorite:
Ethan's Mom's Panties - Sorry Brad, but I had to toss this in here. Hard to recover when your franchise cornerstone is caught up in a big dick contest with Roger Goodell. Made a smart move to acquire a cheap keeper in Jeremy Hill over Rodger's increasingly expensive price tag each season, but after that things aren't too promising. McKinnon is just not getting enough touches to be effective at the position right now, and Asiata vulturing TD's as well as the addition of Ben Tate do not bode well for that to change. James Jones has been hit or miss on a bad Oakland team. Andre Johnson may not know who is throwing him the football on Sunday. And anytime you are starting two Jaguars, you might be in trouble. Without going any farther and further damaging my already low fantasy karma, the Panties that belong to Ethan's Mom look to be in a position to be sporting that beautiful pink anklet (although not too pink anymore) for the next 365.
Friday, November 21, 2014
Playoff Picture
It has been a very competitive year for the Equalizer this season, with 8 teams having a shot at the playoffs this year. Particularly heated is the battle for the 5th and 6th spots, with realistically 4 or 5 teams in contention for those depending on how week 12 shakes out. So for this week, I wanted to take a look at who I think are the first two teams in the playoffs and the last two teams eliminated who would be considered "on the bubble" (very pumped college basketball season is back, Go Terps!). Let's get into it:
First Two In:
The Fat Cats - Team has taken a little fall from grace after some injuries to key players, but this team is stacked across the board. Acquired Peyton Manning in a trade this week, now boasting a lineup featuring 5 guys in the top ten at their respective position (not including Calvin Johnson). And I think they are the only team on the bubble that actually wins this week. Controlling their own destiny, the Cats easily slide into that 5th playoff spot (and can actually get bumped higher with some help) after throwing up plenty of points early in the year.
PB Pandemonium - As we have all seen before, the Pandemonium finish the year with a reckless abandon in mediocrity and are on their way to a four game losing streak to end the regular season. However, early season success may have saved the day for the Pandemonium (with some help from other teams losing this week). Made a trade this week to bolster the receiver position (particularly in the future) rolling the dice starting two Giants and two Jets... So let's be honest the TD's will steamroll the PB this weekend (Commish who's making the schedule here anyways 2 of the last 3 weeks!!) but I think there will be enough help from other teams for the Pandemonium to sneak in on point differential with a 6-6 record.
Last Two Out:
Redwood Chipalopes - Tough matchup with a revamped Dark Force this week (adding Rodgers who is playing on another level right now), I think this one is a high scoring affair with the Force ultimately prevailing. However, big question mark for the Chips is Josh Gordon and how effective he can be in his first game of 2014. One thing people lost sight of is he was able to work out in Browns facilities during his suspension and by all accounts is in incredible shape. With a mediocre QB like Hoyer likely to just try and throw it to his top guy, Gordon could absolutely explode this week against a weak Atlanta defense. Add to that Mike Evans incredible run, and the Chipalopes could sneak in there without a RB2.
Roc City Super Dudes - So some of you may think this is a desperation pick in hopes the Dudes lose and the PB Pandemonium hobble into the playoffs...and you would be absolutely correct. This matchup this week in pretty interesting. The Old Guys Club actually boasts significantly more points than the Dudes despite their 4-7 record. Most likely get Gio Bernard back (on a very limited basis) and looks more likely than not that Emmanuel Sanders suits up on Sunday. So honestly, I have a hard time picking a favorite to win in this matchup. I think the Old Guys Club wins the QB battle, the Dudes win the TE battle and the WR's are a wash. I think the RB's of the Dudes are better suited for success this week with Bernard hampered, but we know Ryan Mathews injury history. Trying to build a lot of good fantasy karma this week for the Old Guys Club (Keith you gotta get Sanders in that lineup!!).
Anyways, it's everyone's favorite time of the year, fantasy playoff time! Next week I think I will take a look at my pick for the 2014 Equalizer champ after the brackets are set, as well as my pick for the BAMA (is Kaier still looking good for a repeat? Maybe not...). Looking forward to seeing some of you fellas next week. Any torn ACL's in high noon football this year?
First Two In:
The Fat Cats - Team has taken a little fall from grace after some injuries to key players, but this team is stacked across the board. Acquired Peyton Manning in a trade this week, now boasting a lineup featuring 5 guys in the top ten at their respective position (not including Calvin Johnson). And I think they are the only team on the bubble that actually wins this week. Controlling their own destiny, the Cats easily slide into that 5th playoff spot (and can actually get bumped higher with some help) after throwing up plenty of points early in the year.
PB Pandemonium - As we have all seen before, the Pandemonium finish the year with a reckless abandon in mediocrity and are on their way to a four game losing streak to end the regular season. However, early season success may have saved the day for the Pandemonium (with some help from other teams losing this week). Made a trade this week to bolster the receiver position (particularly in the future) rolling the dice starting two Giants and two Jets... So let's be honest the TD's will steamroll the PB this weekend (Commish who's making the schedule here anyways 2 of the last 3 weeks!!) but I think there will be enough help from other teams for the Pandemonium to sneak in on point differential with a 6-6 record.
Last Two Out:
Redwood Chipalopes - Tough matchup with a revamped Dark Force this week (adding Rodgers who is playing on another level right now), I think this one is a high scoring affair with the Force ultimately prevailing. However, big question mark for the Chips is Josh Gordon and how effective he can be in his first game of 2014. One thing people lost sight of is he was able to work out in Browns facilities during his suspension and by all accounts is in incredible shape. With a mediocre QB like Hoyer likely to just try and throw it to his top guy, Gordon could absolutely explode this week against a weak Atlanta defense. Add to that Mike Evans incredible run, and the Chipalopes could sneak in there without a RB2.
Roc City Super Dudes - So some of you may think this is a desperation pick in hopes the Dudes lose and the PB Pandemonium hobble into the playoffs...and you would be absolutely correct. This matchup this week in pretty interesting. The Old Guys Club actually boasts significantly more points than the Dudes despite their 4-7 record. Most likely get Gio Bernard back (on a very limited basis) and looks more likely than not that Emmanuel Sanders suits up on Sunday. So honestly, I have a hard time picking a favorite to win in this matchup. I think the Old Guys Club wins the QB battle, the Dudes win the TE battle and the WR's are a wash. I think the RB's of the Dudes are better suited for success this week with Bernard hampered, but we know Ryan Mathews injury history. Trying to build a lot of good fantasy karma this week for the Old Guys Club (Keith you gotta get Sanders in that lineup!!).
Anyways, it's everyone's favorite time of the year, fantasy playoff time! Next week I think I will take a look at my pick for the 2014 Equalizer champ after the brackets are set, as well as my pick for the BAMA (is Kaier still looking good for a repeat? Maybe not...). Looking forward to seeing some of you fellas next week. Any torn ACL's in high noon football this year?
Tuesday, November 18, 2014
Week 11 Observations
Hard to believe we are only one week away from the end of the regular season. Kind of a weird weekend of NFL action this weekend, with Denver getting beat in St. Louis, Cincy going to New Orleans and drilling the Saints, and some pretty key injuries down the stretch. But if there is one thing that is always consistent, it's the late season collapse of the PB Pandemonium. Let's get into week 11 of NFL action.
Miami Defense - The Dolphins defense is legitimate, but this isn't anything we don't know. Forget the Brent Grimes interception last week against Detroit, this team held Sammy Watkins to 3 catches for 32 yards on their way to keeping the Bills from the end zone for 60 minutes. They will face a tough test this weekend in Denver, but Denver may be without three key players this coming weekend.
Bryce Brown - Perhaps the lone bright spot for the Bills on Thursday night. Big hopes for Brown when he was acquired from Philly, just has not quite panned out yet in a Buffalo uniform. With Booby Dixon looking very Booby Dixon-esque, played his way into 13 touches in this game, doing most of his damage in the passing game. I liked Bryce Brown after the injuries to Jackson and Spiller, perhaps this is the game that vaults him to the top of the pecking order with Jackson still not healthy.
Cordarelle Patterson - Probably the biggest disappointment for me this season. Had really high hopes for this guy coming into the year. Insane athleticism, basically a larger more durable Percy Harvin. You know, except for the fact that he apparently has not been good enough to warrant the ball in his hands. Dropped him in all leagues I owned him.
Jay Cutler - Gotta give him some credit answered the bell this weekend. Been criticized all week but ripped NFC North rival Minnesota to the tune of 330 yards, 3 touchdowns. Perhaps more encouraging for Bears fans is Brandon Marshall seemingly healthy. In other news, Martellus Bennett where are you at?
Ryan Mallett - Very impressive in his first start, throwing for over 200 yards with two touchdowns and a pick (coming on a great play by Joe Haden). However the Texans absolutely ran roughshod over the Browns, with Alfred Blue tallying 156 yards on the ground in relief of Arian Foster.
Browns Backfield - Perhaps the worst backfield situation fantasy-wise in the NFL. Terrance West runs for 94 yards on 26 carries last week and still relinquishes the starting spot to Isaiah Crowell. Crowell has himself a nice day, rushing for 61 yards and 30 through the air, but loses yet another fumble. Then there is Ben Tate who was brought to Cleveland to be the presumptive starter. Your guess is as good as mine.
Jamaal Charles - Shredded the reigning Super Bowl champs to the tune of 159 yards and two touchdowns. Imagine if the chiefs actually had a quarterback?
Cincinnati Bengals - Can someone explain this team to me? I know the Saints have struggled in stretches this season, but really? Spanked the Saints at home, with Dalton pulling a complete 180 from last week and his passer rating of 2.0 against the Browns at home on national TV. Jeremy Hill with another nice game here, how much does the guy need to do to supplant Bernard as the starter?
Brandin Cooks - Promising rookie campaign may come to a screeching halt with a broken thumb on Sunday. With Marques Colston non-existent, now who does Brees throw to?
Frank Gore - Just when you think this guy is done, he puts together a string of a couple good games. Fantasy scores of 15 and 10 the past two weeks (ran for 95 yards this Sunday but did not find the end zone) you wonder if someone will take a shot on two more years out of Gore after the reigns are handed to Carlos Hyde this offseason.
Peyton Manning - Wtf happened yesterday? Obviously chalk it up to one of those games, but on paper this shouldn't have even been a contest. Guess that's why they play the game. Denver Broncos might be in for a little tough stretch if it turns out Julius Thomas and Emmanuel Sanders will miss some time (Sanders was basically murdered Sunday).
Kenny Britt - Remember when this guy was the next big thing out of Rutgers? Yeah, me neither. Put together a nice game this weekend though, ripping the Broncos on 4 receptions for 128 yards and a touchdown. While I am not a believer in Kenny Britt because he has proven me wrong so many times, it is worth watching with Shaun Hill back under center for the Rams.
Washington Redskins - This team is laughably bad. Might as well at least stick with the QB who actually won you a game (Colt McCoy). Pierre Garcon is invisible, Jordan Reed underperforming and tweaks his hammy again, and it's only a matter of time before DeSean Jackson starts wanting off a losing team. Also lose Trent Williams in this game, this team is just painful to see on Sportscenter (won't even watch them live).
Mike Evans - One of my biggest draft regrets was not getting this kid. Was fine with it to start the year when he struggled as the Bucs were worse than the Skins, has explodedddd in the last couple of weeks. Who would have thought the rookie would make Vincent Jackson irrelevant in Tampa Bay? While they couldn't stop a pop warner football team on defense, I do like some off the offensive talent they have down there in Tampa.
Phillip Rivers - Everyone remember this Phillip Rivers? Yeah me too. It seems he has come crashing down to Earth in the past couple of weeks, having not broken 20 fantasy points since week 6. Struggled again yesterday against the Raiders, posting a 193 yards and 1TD stat line.
Latavius Murray - Got some run and looked really good in this game. Was a lot of hype around this guy in the preseason, and hey, the Raiders can't get any worse.
Drew Stanton - In the battle of two of the best defenses in the NFL, Drew Stanton might have been the best player on the field. Threw for 306 yards and two touchdowns against a very good Lions defense, the Cardinals might not be missing a step with a new man under center.
Aaron Rodgers - Wasn't sure if anyone would read this with Green Bay's D out front, so I threw Rodgers name out there instead. But the defense played very well against the NFL's 5th best offense coming into this game. Got pressure on everyone's favorite QB Marky Sanchise, and surrendered a little over 100 yards on the ground after begin run all over to begin the season. While they still gave up over 400 yards of offense, did a good job creating turnovers and keeping the Eagles out of the end zone.
Colts - Spoke about the Broncos getting hit by the injury bug, but the Colts might have caught it worse. Bradshaw goes down with a broken ankle, after putting up a great season so far. Now the Colts will rely on the likes of ...cough...Trent Richardson to anchor this team's backfield. Also, Dwayne Allen goes down with a potential high ankle sprain. Two key weapons (and a lot of touchdowns) down for the Colts in this game.
Tennessee Titans Run Defense - O wait, forgot they don't have one...
Leveon Bell - Played so well last night, had his own teammates walking off the field (looking at you Legarette Blount). Over two hundred yards and a touchdown on a little over 30 carries, solidified his status as a top 5 pick in next year's fantasy drafts. Most impressive stat of the night, 196 yards in the middle of the field. If that is not a big F U to the Titans run defense, I don't know what is.
Wraps up week 11 for me boys, let me know what I missed. Also, look out for a little "last two in, first two out" posting later this week with the playoff race being so tightly contested this season.
Miami Defense - The Dolphins defense is legitimate, but this isn't anything we don't know. Forget the Brent Grimes interception last week against Detroit, this team held Sammy Watkins to 3 catches for 32 yards on their way to keeping the Bills from the end zone for 60 minutes. They will face a tough test this weekend in Denver, but Denver may be without three key players this coming weekend.
Bryce Brown - Perhaps the lone bright spot for the Bills on Thursday night. Big hopes for Brown when he was acquired from Philly, just has not quite panned out yet in a Buffalo uniform. With Booby Dixon looking very Booby Dixon-esque, played his way into 13 touches in this game, doing most of his damage in the passing game. I liked Bryce Brown after the injuries to Jackson and Spiller, perhaps this is the game that vaults him to the top of the pecking order with Jackson still not healthy.
Cordarelle Patterson - Probably the biggest disappointment for me this season. Had really high hopes for this guy coming into the year. Insane athleticism, basically a larger more durable Percy Harvin. You know, except for the fact that he apparently has not been good enough to warrant the ball in his hands. Dropped him in all leagues I owned him.
Jay Cutler - Gotta give him some credit answered the bell this weekend. Been criticized all week but ripped NFC North rival Minnesota to the tune of 330 yards, 3 touchdowns. Perhaps more encouraging for Bears fans is Brandon Marshall seemingly healthy. In other news, Martellus Bennett where are you at?
Ryan Mallett - Very impressive in his first start, throwing for over 200 yards with two touchdowns and a pick (coming on a great play by Joe Haden). However the Texans absolutely ran roughshod over the Browns, with Alfred Blue tallying 156 yards on the ground in relief of Arian Foster.
Browns Backfield - Perhaps the worst backfield situation fantasy-wise in the NFL. Terrance West runs for 94 yards on 26 carries last week and still relinquishes the starting spot to Isaiah Crowell. Crowell has himself a nice day, rushing for 61 yards and 30 through the air, but loses yet another fumble. Then there is Ben Tate who was brought to Cleveland to be the presumptive starter. Your guess is as good as mine.
Jamaal Charles - Shredded the reigning Super Bowl champs to the tune of 159 yards and two touchdowns. Imagine if the chiefs actually had a quarterback?
Cincinnati Bengals - Can someone explain this team to me? I know the Saints have struggled in stretches this season, but really? Spanked the Saints at home, with Dalton pulling a complete 180 from last week and his passer rating of 2.0 against the Browns at home on national TV. Jeremy Hill with another nice game here, how much does the guy need to do to supplant Bernard as the starter?
Brandin Cooks - Promising rookie campaign may come to a screeching halt with a broken thumb on Sunday. With Marques Colston non-existent, now who does Brees throw to?
Frank Gore - Just when you think this guy is done, he puts together a string of a couple good games. Fantasy scores of 15 and 10 the past two weeks (ran for 95 yards this Sunday but did not find the end zone) you wonder if someone will take a shot on two more years out of Gore after the reigns are handed to Carlos Hyde this offseason.
Peyton Manning - Wtf happened yesterday? Obviously chalk it up to one of those games, but on paper this shouldn't have even been a contest. Guess that's why they play the game. Denver Broncos might be in for a little tough stretch if it turns out Julius Thomas and Emmanuel Sanders will miss some time (Sanders was basically murdered Sunday).
Kenny Britt - Remember when this guy was the next big thing out of Rutgers? Yeah, me neither. Put together a nice game this weekend though, ripping the Broncos on 4 receptions for 128 yards and a touchdown. While I am not a believer in Kenny Britt because he has proven me wrong so many times, it is worth watching with Shaun Hill back under center for the Rams.
Washington Redskins - This team is laughably bad. Might as well at least stick with the QB who actually won you a game (Colt McCoy). Pierre Garcon is invisible, Jordan Reed underperforming and tweaks his hammy again, and it's only a matter of time before DeSean Jackson starts wanting off a losing team. Also lose Trent Williams in this game, this team is just painful to see on Sportscenter (won't even watch them live).
Mike Evans - One of my biggest draft regrets was not getting this kid. Was fine with it to start the year when he struggled as the Bucs were worse than the Skins, has explodedddd in the last couple of weeks. Who would have thought the rookie would make Vincent Jackson irrelevant in Tampa Bay? While they couldn't stop a pop warner football team on defense, I do like some off the offensive talent they have down there in Tampa.
Phillip Rivers - Everyone remember this Phillip Rivers? Yeah me too. It seems he has come crashing down to Earth in the past couple of weeks, having not broken 20 fantasy points since week 6. Struggled again yesterday against the Raiders, posting a 193 yards and 1TD stat line.
Latavius Murray - Got some run and looked really good in this game. Was a lot of hype around this guy in the preseason, and hey, the Raiders can't get any worse.
Drew Stanton - In the battle of two of the best defenses in the NFL, Drew Stanton might have been the best player on the field. Threw for 306 yards and two touchdowns against a very good Lions defense, the Cardinals might not be missing a step with a new man under center.
Aaron Rodgers - Wasn't sure if anyone would read this with Green Bay's D out front, so I threw Rodgers name out there instead. But the defense played very well against the NFL's 5th best offense coming into this game. Got pressure on everyone's favorite QB Marky Sanchise, and surrendered a little over 100 yards on the ground after begin run all over to begin the season. While they still gave up over 400 yards of offense, did a good job creating turnovers and keeping the Eagles out of the end zone.
Colts - Spoke about the Broncos getting hit by the injury bug, but the Colts might have caught it worse. Bradshaw goes down with a broken ankle, after putting up a great season so far. Now the Colts will rely on the likes of ...cough...Trent Richardson to anchor this team's backfield. Also, Dwayne Allen goes down with a potential high ankle sprain. Two key weapons (and a lot of touchdowns) down for the Colts in this game.
Tennessee Titans Run Defense - O wait, forgot they don't have one...
Leveon Bell - Played so well last night, had his own teammates walking off the field (looking at you Legarette Blount). Over two hundred yards and a touchdown on a little over 30 carries, solidified his status as a top 5 pick in next year's fantasy drafts. Most impressive stat of the night, 196 yards in the middle of the field. If that is not a big F U to the Titans run defense, I don't know what is.
Wraps up week 11 for me boys, let me know what I missed. Also, look out for a little "last two in, first two out" posting later this week with the playoff race being so tightly contested this season.
Friday, November 7, 2014
Week 9 Observations
It keeps getting more and more interesting every week. With some many big name players just not living up to expectations this season, this season may come down to each teams moves on the waiver wire. Let's get into week 9
Jeremy Hill - So the Bengals backfield situation just got a lot more interesting. Hill exploded this week for 154 yards on 24 carries for two touchdowns and quite possibly saved the game for the Bengals. Hill is the bigger back and Cincy, more of a prototypical RB with a build closer to the Alfred Morris's of the league than the Andre Ellington. That seems to bode well for his durability. Might we see Gio Bernard relegated to more of a change of pace/passing down type work if this production from Hill continues?
Denard Robinson - Third straight game effectively running the football, I am now a Robinson believer. Suffered some injuries at Michigan there might be some durability concerns with the workload, but I like this guy's upside. So much for the Toby Gerhart acquisition...
Mark Ingram - Back to back weeks of just destroying me in various fantasy leagues, certainly carving out a niche for himself in the NO backfield that was such a question mark to begin the year. Runs like a little bowling ball and was known at Alabama to be a very hard-working individual, I like him to see plenty of work even after the return of Thomas.
Cam Newton - Thought better days were ahead in Carolina, this team is bad and it starts with Cam Newton. Just has not looked like himself in 2014. Is there a team that has taken a sharper 180 than the Panthers?
Mike Evans - I think Evans is poised for a monster 2015 season. Still learning the game as a rookie wide receiver on a terrible team, but I love the guy's physical assets. Big wide receiver, good hands, better than average speed for a guy his size, learning from a vet in Vincent Jackson. Mike Glennon has shown flashes of being able to QB effectively at the NFL level, I like this kid down the road. Huge game against a Browns team that boasts the likes of cornerback Joe Haden, grabbing 7 balls for 124 yards and 2 touchdowns.
Terrence West - In an interesting turn of events, West grabs the majority of the carries here for Cleveland and not Ben Tate. Crowell has taken a back seat in recent weeks due to ball control concerns, but was effective when utilized. What was assumed to be Ben Tate's job is now trending towards a committee approach, I would avoid the Cleveland backfield.
Dallas Cowboys - The Cowboys looked to take a HUGE step back here to the Cowboys of old. Brandon Weeden is bad at football. We know this. If you can't cut it in Cleveland you can't cut it anywhere. But they let him throw the football 33 times in this game, or one less attempt than Palmer!! They have not one, not two, but three very effective RB's behind one of the league's best o-lines. Pound the rock and potentially use some play action off of that, but please don't make us watch Weeden try and win a football game again.
Arian Foster - Let's just say it did not look promising when the injury happened. Was putting up yet another monster game before the injury bug bit again. The non-contact injuries can be some of the most concerning, and it certainly appeared as such on the field. As of this writing, not much in the way of news on the injury but some reports suggest he may not actually miss any time with the bye in week 10.
Nick Foles - Broken collarbone, no surgery. Out 6-8 weeks. Bring on Marky Sanchise!!!
New York Jets - This team is all in on Percy Harvin apparently, targeting him 13 times this week. However the most interesting question in New York this year is what network will Rex Ryan sign onto for next year (or possibly next week the way things are going)?
Alex Smith - Interesting little tid bit from Matthew Berry this morning, week 9 is now over and the Chiefs have still not thrown a TD to a wide receiver.
San Diego Chargers - Once again proving there is merit to the West Coast team coming east for a 1:00 game. Just dismantled this weekend. While they have been trending downwards of late, I think this is just one of those games and they bounce back after the bye.
Ryan Tannehill - I have been dogged in spot starts by this guy before but I am liking what I am seeing out of him these past couple of weeks. I didn't realize how athletic he was. Couple of designed boots for him that turned into big plays. Miami is a hard team to read, with some really poor games to go with a performance like this Sunday, but I like the pieces that are in place. Joe Philbin getting things turned around in South Beach.
Matt Asiata - Tough one to stomach for the Panties this week...looks like McKinnon is going to have to break off long runs to get his red zone opportunities.
Colin Kaepernick - Was he in? Probably the most controversial call of the weekend, couldn't have happened to a player I dislike more in the league. Guy has not really shown any improvement in his game over the past 3 years despite having some of the best weapons in the league. You usually don't hear of locker room troubles unless there is some merit to the rumors. The niners are trending downward. Go Cards!
Tom Brady - Once again beats Manning in Foxboro (his own personal kryptonite). I still think the Broncos are the better team, and the road to the AFC championship will travel through Denver, but quite the impressive performance. Gronk is unguardable right now. You can't put a linebacker there, you can't put a corner, you can't put a safety. Only defense is a bump off the line and some serious pass rush on Brady. Seems like that o-line shuffling has finally found a mix that works and the Patriots are looking really good.
Seattle Seahawks - What is going on for the reigning Super Bowl champs? 24 points to the Derek Carr led Raiders at home. Where is the 12th man at Kaier??
Ben Roethlisberger - Money in the bank. 79 fantasy points the past two weekends, 12 TD's, zero picks. One of the best two game stretches ever. Also has an unbelievably favorable schedule coming up. My only concern...we saw this same team lose to the Bucs and the Browns. We know the talent is there, but I want to see them drilling the teams they should be beating handily.
Odell Beckham Jr. - 8 catches for 156 yards, we are seeing an emerging stud here. Had a great catch and run in the game to show flashes of the talent we saw at LSU and why the Giants drafted him.
Tom Coughlin - Gotta be quicker on that trigger dawg. In other news, Andrew Luck is an unbelievably smart and savvy QB. Just keeps making plays no matter the situation. The Giants brought relentless pressure all night and against a capable secondary, still managed 4 touchdowns on the night. Of note in the game is Luck threw it 46 times in a game that was pretty much in hand from the get go. A lot of potential fantasy value in Colts pass catchers, just a matter of finding who gets the targets in any given week.
Wraps up week 9 for me. Starting to get down to crunch time as the playoff picture becomes more (or perhaps less depending on how you look at it) clear as we come down the final stretch of the regular season.
Jeremy Hill - So the Bengals backfield situation just got a lot more interesting. Hill exploded this week for 154 yards on 24 carries for two touchdowns and quite possibly saved the game for the Bengals. Hill is the bigger back and Cincy, more of a prototypical RB with a build closer to the Alfred Morris's of the league than the Andre Ellington. That seems to bode well for his durability. Might we see Gio Bernard relegated to more of a change of pace/passing down type work if this production from Hill continues?
Denard Robinson - Third straight game effectively running the football, I am now a Robinson believer. Suffered some injuries at Michigan there might be some durability concerns with the workload, but I like this guy's upside. So much for the Toby Gerhart acquisition...
Mark Ingram - Back to back weeks of just destroying me in various fantasy leagues, certainly carving out a niche for himself in the NO backfield that was such a question mark to begin the year. Runs like a little bowling ball and was known at Alabama to be a very hard-working individual, I like him to see plenty of work even after the return of Thomas.
Cam Newton - Thought better days were ahead in Carolina, this team is bad and it starts with Cam Newton. Just has not looked like himself in 2014. Is there a team that has taken a sharper 180 than the Panthers?
Mike Evans - I think Evans is poised for a monster 2015 season. Still learning the game as a rookie wide receiver on a terrible team, but I love the guy's physical assets. Big wide receiver, good hands, better than average speed for a guy his size, learning from a vet in Vincent Jackson. Mike Glennon has shown flashes of being able to QB effectively at the NFL level, I like this kid down the road. Huge game against a Browns team that boasts the likes of cornerback Joe Haden, grabbing 7 balls for 124 yards and 2 touchdowns.
Terrence West - In an interesting turn of events, West grabs the majority of the carries here for Cleveland and not Ben Tate. Crowell has taken a back seat in recent weeks due to ball control concerns, but was effective when utilized. What was assumed to be Ben Tate's job is now trending towards a committee approach, I would avoid the Cleveland backfield.
Dallas Cowboys - The Cowboys looked to take a HUGE step back here to the Cowboys of old. Brandon Weeden is bad at football. We know this. If you can't cut it in Cleveland you can't cut it anywhere. But they let him throw the football 33 times in this game, or one less attempt than Palmer!! They have not one, not two, but three very effective RB's behind one of the league's best o-lines. Pound the rock and potentially use some play action off of that, but please don't make us watch Weeden try and win a football game again.
Arian Foster - Let's just say it did not look promising when the injury happened. Was putting up yet another monster game before the injury bug bit again. The non-contact injuries can be some of the most concerning, and it certainly appeared as such on the field. As of this writing, not much in the way of news on the injury but some reports suggest he may not actually miss any time with the bye in week 10.
Nick Foles - Broken collarbone, no surgery. Out 6-8 weeks. Bring on Marky Sanchise!!!
New York Jets - This team is all in on Percy Harvin apparently, targeting him 13 times this week. However the most interesting question in New York this year is what network will Rex Ryan sign onto for next year (or possibly next week the way things are going)?
Alex Smith - Interesting little tid bit from Matthew Berry this morning, week 9 is now over and the Chiefs have still not thrown a TD to a wide receiver.
San Diego Chargers - Once again proving there is merit to the West Coast team coming east for a 1:00 game. Just dismantled this weekend. While they have been trending downwards of late, I think this is just one of those games and they bounce back after the bye.
Ryan Tannehill - I have been dogged in spot starts by this guy before but I am liking what I am seeing out of him these past couple of weeks. I didn't realize how athletic he was. Couple of designed boots for him that turned into big plays. Miami is a hard team to read, with some really poor games to go with a performance like this Sunday, but I like the pieces that are in place. Joe Philbin getting things turned around in South Beach.
Matt Asiata - Tough one to stomach for the Panties this week...looks like McKinnon is going to have to break off long runs to get his red zone opportunities.
Colin Kaepernick - Was he in? Probably the most controversial call of the weekend, couldn't have happened to a player I dislike more in the league. Guy has not really shown any improvement in his game over the past 3 years despite having some of the best weapons in the league. You usually don't hear of locker room troubles unless there is some merit to the rumors. The niners are trending downward. Go Cards!
Tom Brady - Once again beats Manning in Foxboro (his own personal kryptonite). I still think the Broncos are the better team, and the road to the AFC championship will travel through Denver, but quite the impressive performance. Gronk is unguardable right now. You can't put a linebacker there, you can't put a corner, you can't put a safety. Only defense is a bump off the line and some serious pass rush on Brady. Seems like that o-line shuffling has finally found a mix that works and the Patriots are looking really good.
Seattle Seahawks - What is going on for the reigning Super Bowl champs? 24 points to the Derek Carr led Raiders at home. Where is the 12th man at Kaier??
Ben Roethlisberger - Money in the bank. 79 fantasy points the past two weekends, 12 TD's, zero picks. One of the best two game stretches ever. Also has an unbelievably favorable schedule coming up. My only concern...we saw this same team lose to the Bucs and the Browns. We know the talent is there, but I want to see them drilling the teams they should be beating handily.
Odell Beckham Jr. - 8 catches for 156 yards, we are seeing an emerging stud here. Had a great catch and run in the game to show flashes of the talent we saw at LSU and why the Giants drafted him.
Tom Coughlin - Gotta be quicker on that trigger dawg. In other news, Andrew Luck is an unbelievably smart and savvy QB. Just keeps making plays no matter the situation. The Giants brought relentless pressure all night and against a capable secondary, still managed 4 touchdowns on the night. Of note in the game is Luck threw it 46 times in a game that was pretty much in hand from the get go. A lot of potential fantasy value in Colts pass catchers, just a matter of finding who gets the targets in any given week.
Wraps up week 9 for me. Starting to get down to crunch time as the playoff picture becomes more (or perhaps less depending on how you look at it) clear as we come down the final stretch of the regular season.
Tuesday, October 28, 2014
Week 8 Observations
Time to recap week 8, getting down to crunch time in the Equalizer boys.
Keenan Allen - Guy destroys the Broncos for some reason. Another nice game here, grabbing nine balls for 73 and a touchdown. However, it is still only his second performance of 20 plus points this season. Seems to be trending upwards with his second straight double digit performance, but with the many mouths to feed in SD, I am still tapering expectations for a second half burst.
Emmanuel Sanders - Went beast mode on Thursday night, grabbing three touchdowns. This is not without precedent as Eric Decker showed last year. This offense just scores at will and it is really a crap shoot as to who grabs the TD's in any given game. Fortunately, there is usually enough to go around where everyone is happy.
Juwan Thompson - Keep an eye on this kid, with Hillman being a smaller back might be a sneaky grab to vulture some TD's for someone thin at the position.
Detroit vs. Atlanta - What a tale of two halves. Atlanta came out, protected Matt Ryan, and grabbed a 21-0 lead heading into the half. Then the wheels started to come off. That Detroit defensive front started to get pressure on the QB, bone-headed play to let Tate get deep on a 3rd and 25, and some questionable plays under two minutes in the game. Mike Smith might be on his way out of Atlanta.
Matthew Stafford - As I watch this kid more and more, I start to understand the tunnel vision criticisms often pegged to him. Threw the ball to Golden Tate 15 times on Sunday. We all know how often Megatron is targeted. He has been lucky to play with two of the best in the league to be able to make plays with that number of targets, but what if he had the receivers in New England or Seattle. Would he still put up numbers?
Seattle Seahawks - You can try and quash rumors of locker room unrest all you want, but they don't typically arise out of nowhere. Apart from Wilson, just have not looked very good as of late. I knew the team was human and just really hit its stride in the playoffs last year, but nothing can destroy a good team faster than bad chemistry. Hopefully they can right the ship in the coming weeks.
Baltimore vs. Cincy - The battle of the two QB's where I don't think anyone can decide if they are actually good or not. Both have looked like one of the best, both have been embarrassingly bad at times. You guys have any idea?
Denard Robinson - The Jags might have actually found something here. I was waiting to see if last week's game might have been a fluke (22 for 127 yards) but he comes back with 108 yards on the ground. With Bortles doing his best Matt Schaub impression, the lone bright spot for the Jags Sunday.
Knile Davis - This guy would probably start on 10 teams in the league right now, I wonder if he ever gets out of KC. Will always play second fiddle to Charles in a chiefs uniform, might be worthy of a stash in the future if trade rumors circulate.
Tom Brady - Gronk is back. Lafell doesn't suck. And Tom Brady is just money right now. This is why he's one of the greats.
Chicago Bears - What a disappointment this team is. Locker room troubles, no clear cut leaders on the team. This team is a train wreck right now. Jay Cutler does not strike me as a guy people rally around, this team might finish the year last in the NFC North.
Geno Smith - Open tryout for Jets starting QB position, anyone wanna head down?
Sammy Watkins - Here you go Dan, the future of the Dark Force franchise. Certainly flashed his rookie colors on Sunday when he forgot he wasn't at Clemson anymore and could outrun anybody on the field, but still put together a monster game. And this with Kyle Orton at QB. I really like this kid moving forward, and regret not taking the chance on him in the draft.
Cordarelle Patterson - Decent game here for Patterson, might he finally be figuring it out. As if the TD's need anymore weapons on the squad, destroying the league right now.
Zach Mettenberger - Actually not a terrible start against a good Texans defense and the best defensive player in the league. With Jake Locker just unable to stay on the football field, might Whisenhunt have a little more to think about now?
John Brown - Really fun kid to watch, quick quick quick. Problem is I can't trust the production yet. Can always be that home run hitter, but hasn't shown the consistency. Part of this is a result of coverages and what teams are allowing Arizona to do, with Fitz and Floyd being more reliable receivers, but I like this kid's future prospects.
Cleveland Browns - Plodded out another win, but I think people in Cleveland are licking their chops to see Manziel under center next year. I know I am.
Andrew Luck - 26 completion for 400 yards and 3 touchdowns just has to be a winning stat line right? In steps Big Ben, and what a performance he put on. Is this game equivalent to a perfect game in baseball? I think those bumblebee uniforms had something to do with it. The Outlaws have been riding Bell and Brown all year, might Evan just make it the triple threat and add Big Ben off waivers?
Aaron Rodgers - For some reason the Packers tried to get really cute in this game and try an onside kick, bring Peppers in on offense, and just let Mark Ingram do whatever he pleases. But it ends Rodgers streak of games with 3 touchdowns passes. The two interceptions were not his fault, and I know the Panties are holding their breath that the hamstring isn't an issue (as am I...).
Brandin Cooks - Showed in this game what all the preseason hype was about. A similar player to John Brown (slightly bigger), just an absolute burner. Tends to catch passes near the line of scrimmage and use his speed to make plays, but showed he can be a deep threat in this game.
Colt McCoy - Must be something about the state of Texas. Leads the lowly Redskins into Dallas and knocks off the NFC East leaders. Put together a decent game too, throwing for 299 yards with 1 pick and a rushing touchdown. I don't foresee any controversy when RGIII is cleared for play, but what a surprise last night was.
Keenan Allen - Guy destroys the Broncos for some reason. Another nice game here, grabbing nine balls for 73 and a touchdown. However, it is still only his second performance of 20 plus points this season. Seems to be trending upwards with his second straight double digit performance, but with the many mouths to feed in SD, I am still tapering expectations for a second half burst.
Emmanuel Sanders - Went beast mode on Thursday night, grabbing three touchdowns. This is not without precedent as Eric Decker showed last year. This offense just scores at will and it is really a crap shoot as to who grabs the TD's in any given game. Fortunately, there is usually enough to go around where everyone is happy.
Juwan Thompson - Keep an eye on this kid, with Hillman being a smaller back might be a sneaky grab to vulture some TD's for someone thin at the position.
Detroit vs. Atlanta - What a tale of two halves. Atlanta came out, protected Matt Ryan, and grabbed a 21-0 lead heading into the half. Then the wheels started to come off. That Detroit defensive front started to get pressure on the QB, bone-headed play to let Tate get deep on a 3rd and 25, and some questionable plays under two minutes in the game. Mike Smith might be on his way out of Atlanta.
Matthew Stafford - As I watch this kid more and more, I start to understand the tunnel vision criticisms often pegged to him. Threw the ball to Golden Tate 15 times on Sunday. We all know how often Megatron is targeted. He has been lucky to play with two of the best in the league to be able to make plays with that number of targets, but what if he had the receivers in New England or Seattle. Would he still put up numbers?
Seattle Seahawks - You can try and quash rumors of locker room unrest all you want, but they don't typically arise out of nowhere. Apart from Wilson, just have not looked very good as of late. I knew the team was human and just really hit its stride in the playoffs last year, but nothing can destroy a good team faster than bad chemistry. Hopefully they can right the ship in the coming weeks.
Baltimore vs. Cincy - The battle of the two QB's where I don't think anyone can decide if they are actually good or not. Both have looked like one of the best, both have been embarrassingly bad at times. You guys have any idea?
Denard Robinson - The Jags might have actually found something here. I was waiting to see if last week's game might have been a fluke (22 for 127 yards) but he comes back with 108 yards on the ground. With Bortles doing his best Matt Schaub impression, the lone bright spot for the Jags Sunday.
Knile Davis - This guy would probably start on 10 teams in the league right now, I wonder if he ever gets out of KC. Will always play second fiddle to Charles in a chiefs uniform, might be worthy of a stash in the future if trade rumors circulate.
Tom Brady - Gronk is back. Lafell doesn't suck. And Tom Brady is just money right now. This is why he's one of the greats.
Chicago Bears - What a disappointment this team is. Locker room troubles, no clear cut leaders on the team. This team is a train wreck right now. Jay Cutler does not strike me as a guy people rally around, this team might finish the year last in the NFC North.
Geno Smith - Open tryout for Jets starting QB position, anyone wanna head down?
Sammy Watkins - Here you go Dan, the future of the Dark Force franchise. Certainly flashed his rookie colors on Sunday when he forgot he wasn't at Clemson anymore and could outrun anybody on the field, but still put together a monster game. And this with Kyle Orton at QB. I really like this kid moving forward, and regret not taking the chance on him in the draft.
Cordarelle Patterson - Decent game here for Patterson, might he finally be figuring it out. As if the TD's need anymore weapons on the squad, destroying the league right now.
Zach Mettenberger - Actually not a terrible start against a good Texans defense and the best defensive player in the league. With Jake Locker just unable to stay on the football field, might Whisenhunt have a little more to think about now?
John Brown - Really fun kid to watch, quick quick quick. Problem is I can't trust the production yet. Can always be that home run hitter, but hasn't shown the consistency. Part of this is a result of coverages and what teams are allowing Arizona to do, with Fitz and Floyd being more reliable receivers, but I like this kid's future prospects.
Cleveland Browns - Plodded out another win, but I think people in Cleveland are licking their chops to see Manziel under center next year. I know I am.
Andrew Luck - 26 completion for 400 yards and 3 touchdowns just has to be a winning stat line right? In steps Big Ben, and what a performance he put on. Is this game equivalent to a perfect game in baseball? I think those bumblebee uniforms had something to do with it. The Outlaws have been riding Bell and Brown all year, might Evan just make it the triple threat and add Big Ben off waivers?
Aaron Rodgers - For some reason the Packers tried to get really cute in this game and try an onside kick, bring Peppers in on offense, and just let Mark Ingram do whatever he pleases. But it ends Rodgers streak of games with 3 touchdowns passes. The two interceptions were not his fault, and I know the Panties are holding their breath that the hamstring isn't an issue (as am I...).
Brandin Cooks - Showed in this game what all the preseason hype was about. A similar player to John Brown (slightly bigger), just an absolute burner. Tends to catch passes near the line of scrimmage and use his speed to make plays, but showed he can be a deep threat in this game.
Colt McCoy - Must be something about the state of Texas. Leads the lowly Redskins into Dallas and knocks off the NFC East leaders. Put together a decent game too, throwing for 299 yards with 1 pick and a rushing touchdown. I don't foresee any controversy when RGIII is cleared for play, but what a surprise last night was.
Tuesday, October 21, 2014
Week 7 Observations
Another interesting week in the NFL. Players on the move. Teams picking up their first W. Let's get into things of note from week 7 around the NFL.
Percy Harvin - Lord have mercy the Jets got Percy. Not only is this a god send for Jets fans, as they finally have a play maker on the outside to compliment Decker, but it's a boost for Percy Harvin fantasy owners as well. For whatever reason, he just was not being used as much as I think he should have been in Seattle. This is a guy with gamebreaking ability that you need to gameplan around (and for on the defensive side of the football). With the Jets having an offense that has been flat at times, I expect them to try and get the football into Harvin's hands wherever they can, whether that's on jet sweeps, bubble screens, or on pass plays downfield. I am expecting a bump in his productivity.
Shane Vereen - There was concern that Branden Bolden or James White might be filling the void left by Stevan Ridley, but Vereen saw the majority of the work, rushing for 43 yards on 11 attempts. He was also heavily involved in the pass game, catching 5 balls for 71 yards and two touchdowns (a career fantasy performance). While the NE RB situation is always a crapshoot, we didn't see much outside of Shane Vereen this past week against a strong Jets run defense.
Tom Brady - You think Brady was pissed about people saying he didn't have it a few weeks ago. Since the KC debacle on Monday Night Football, Brady's lowest fantasy output is 20 points. The Pats have always tended to play their best football later in the year, and I think it is safe to say Brady is returning to form.
Chris Ivory - Rex Ryan needs to designate Ivory as their guy. I don't like this by committee approach where no one is held accountable. There is no doubt Ivory has been the better runner and you can do worse than Chris Johnson in third down/passing situations. Name a starter and stick with him.
Atlanta Falcons - Perhaps top five in the league in terms of skill positions on offense, they can't block anyone. Lost another offensive lineman to an ACL tear this past week, they're signing anyone over 6'2" and 250 pounds in the city of Atlanta to block at this point. And that defense cannot stop anyone, the Falcons are in trouble.
Kyle Orton - If he does not have a mustache, did the game winning toss to Sammy Watkins with one second left really happen?
Jerrick McKinnon - Looks to have solidified himself as the guy in Minnesota going forward. Really high on this kid, I like his future in Minny considering it is looking more and more likely that AP may be on his way out.
Cordarelle Patterson - One of the largest wastes of talent in the NFL, how can this guy not figure out route running? Get open man.
Carolina Panthers defense - Anybody remember the GB Packers D a few years ago when they were second in the league on their way to a Super Bowl victory? Well that defense was worst in the league in some statistical categories the following season and just flat out terrible at times with much the same personnel. Same situation happening in Carolina right now, this team was absolutely shredded Sunday. Riverboat Ron's gotta right the ship down there in Carolina as the NFC South looks to be WIDEEEE open.
Cam Newton - Actually expected him to have a nice game here as the Packers have had trouble with running QB's in recent years (Russell Wilson, Colin Kaepernick). Rushed for a TD while throwing for only 200 yards after his huge performance last week, I want to see Cam return to form because he is fun to watch.
Cincinnati Bengals - If you know what to think about this Bengals team please let me know, because I just don't get it. Look like Super Bowl contenders one week and the Raiders the next.
Ahmad Bradshaw - Six receiving touchdowns through 7 games this year, is this a sustainable pace for the oft-injured back? I actually think so with the way the Colts offense is putting up points. They do not have any especially tough defenses to play for the rest of the season.
Jacksonville Jaguars - The JAGSSSSS!! Get off the snide knocking off Cleveland at home this past Sunday. Denard Robinson comes out of nowhere to post a 127 yard rush day.
Cleveland Browns - See Cincy Bengals above. Just when you think this team might be for real, they throw up this stinker. Bryan Hoyer 16 for 41. Yikes...
Russell Wilson - Just a monster right now. Love to see him running the football and love his prospects moving forward. Just all around a great ambassador for the game of football.
Quick shout out to John Fassel, Rams special teams coach, and Jeff Fisher for having the biggest stones in the NFL.
Pierre Garcon - Minus the big play, pretty ineffective once again. Could be a result of Cousins' poor play but just has not performed all year after being a target monster last season.
Larry Donnell - Up and down up and down. Grabbing some great catches making some good plays, drops the football. Recovers to make another nice play just to drop the football again. Coughlin is notorious for having a zero tolerance policy on fumbles, needs to hang onto the football.
Odell Beckham Jr. - Might we be seeing the emergence of one of the game's next big stars. Certainly has the physical attributes. I like his upside for the rest of the season with Cruz out and going forward.
Stepfan Taylor - TD's management cannot be happy with Taylor vulturing two touchdowns from Andre Ellington. If Taylor continues to get some goal line looks, may be worth a pickup and plug in coming bye weeks.
Peyton Manning - Congratulations on breaking Brett Favre's record, might be the best to ever do it under center.
Ronnie Hillman - Montee Ball welcome to dumpsville, it is looking more and more like this will be Hillman's job moving forward.
Everyone Steeler WR not named Antonio Brown - So disappointing. For a team that throws the football pretty effectively, anyone not named Antonio Brown on this team has been terrible this season. I don't know how this guy still gets open when you can essentially leave everyone else but LeVeon Bell uncovered. The long TD for Martavis Bryant was the lone nice play outside of Brown, who even had to throw for a TD in this game.
Arian Foster- I love what Murray is doing this season but don't overlook Foster this year. Came back from significant back surgery to put up some more than respectable numbers with Ryan Fitzpatrick under center. Has assumed a large workload, taking some pretty significant hits, but has shown some durability (knocking on wood for you Condor). I love watching this guy run the football, so I hope he stays healthy the rest of the way.
That's week 7 for me broseidons, let me know what I missed. Also don't look now, but if Kaier keeps this run up he is a lock for manager of the year this season. Good work from the Dirtdogs!
Percy Harvin - Lord have mercy the Jets got Percy. Not only is this a god send for Jets fans, as they finally have a play maker on the outside to compliment Decker, but it's a boost for Percy Harvin fantasy owners as well. For whatever reason, he just was not being used as much as I think he should have been in Seattle. This is a guy with gamebreaking ability that you need to gameplan around (and for on the defensive side of the football). With the Jets having an offense that has been flat at times, I expect them to try and get the football into Harvin's hands wherever they can, whether that's on jet sweeps, bubble screens, or on pass plays downfield. I am expecting a bump in his productivity.
Shane Vereen - There was concern that Branden Bolden or James White might be filling the void left by Stevan Ridley, but Vereen saw the majority of the work, rushing for 43 yards on 11 attempts. He was also heavily involved in the pass game, catching 5 balls for 71 yards and two touchdowns (a career fantasy performance). While the NE RB situation is always a crapshoot, we didn't see much outside of Shane Vereen this past week against a strong Jets run defense.
Tom Brady - You think Brady was pissed about people saying he didn't have it a few weeks ago. Since the KC debacle on Monday Night Football, Brady's lowest fantasy output is 20 points. The Pats have always tended to play their best football later in the year, and I think it is safe to say Brady is returning to form.
Chris Ivory - Rex Ryan needs to designate Ivory as their guy. I don't like this by committee approach where no one is held accountable. There is no doubt Ivory has been the better runner and you can do worse than Chris Johnson in third down/passing situations. Name a starter and stick with him.
Atlanta Falcons - Perhaps top five in the league in terms of skill positions on offense, they can't block anyone. Lost another offensive lineman to an ACL tear this past week, they're signing anyone over 6'2" and 250 pounds in the city of Atlanta to block at this point. And that defense cannot stop anyone, the Falcons are in trouble.
Kyle Orton - If he does not have a mustache, did the game winning toss to Sammy Watkins with one second left really happen?
Jerrick McKinnon - Looks to have solidified himself as the guy in Minnesota going forward. Really high on this kid, I like his future in Minny considering it is looking more and more likely that AP may be on his way out.
Cordarelle Patterson - One of the largest wastes of talent in the NFL, how can this guy not figure out route running? Get open man.
Carolina Panthers defense - Anybody remember the GB Packers D a few years ago when they were second in the league on their way to a Super Bowl victory? Well that defense was worst in the league in some statistical categories the following season and just flat out terrible at times with much the same personnel. Same situation happening in Carolina right now, this team was absolutely shredded Sunday. Riverboat Ron's gotta right the ship down there in Carolina as the NFC South looks to be WIDEEEE open.
Cam Newton - Actually expected him to have a nice game here as the Packers have had trouble with running QB's in recent years (Russell Wilson, Colin Kaepernick). Rushed for a TD while throwing for only 200 yards after his huge performance last week, I want to see Cam return to form because he is fun to watch.
Cincinnati Bengals - If you know what to think about this Bengals team please let me know, because I just don't get it. Look like Super Bowl contenders one week and the Raiders the next.
Ahmad Bradshaw - Six receiving touchdowns through 7 games this year, is this a sustainable pace for the oft-injured back? I actually think so with the way the Colts offense is putting up points. They do not have any especially tough defenses to play for the rest of the season.
Jacksonville Jaguars - The JAGSSSSS!! Get off the snide knocking off Cleveland at home this past Sunday. Denard Robinson comes out of nowhere to post a 127 yard rush day.
Cleveland Browns - See Cincy Bengals above. Just when you think this team might be for real, they throw up this stinker. Bryan Hoyer 16 for 41. Yikes...
Russell Wilson - Just a monster right now. Love to see him running the football and love his prospects moving forward. Just all around a great ambassador for the game of football.
Quick shout out to John Fassel, Rams special teams coach, and Jeff Fisher for having the biggest stones in the NFL.
Pierre Garcon - Minus the big play, pretty ineffective once again. Could be a result of Cousins' poor play but just has not performed all year after being a target monster last season.
Larry Donnell - Up and down up and down. Grabbing some great catches making some good plays, drops the football. Recovers to make another nice play just to drop the football again. Coughlin is notorious for having a zero tolerance policy on fumbles, needs to hang onto the football.
Odell Beckham Jr. - Might we be seeing the emergence of one of the game's next big stars. Certainly has the physical attributes. I like his upside for the rest of the season with Cruz out and going forward.
Stepfan Taylor - TD's management cannot be happy with Taylor vulturing two touchdowns from Andre Ellington. If Taylor continues to get some goal line looks, may be worth a pickup and plug in coming bye weeks.
Peyton Manning - Congratulations on breaking Brett Favre's record, might be the best to ever do it under center.
Ronnie Hillman - Montee Ball welcome to dumpsville, it is looking more and more like this will be Hillman's job moving forward.
Everyone Steeler WR not named Antonio Brown - So disappointing. For a team that throws the football pretty effectively, anyone not named Antonio Brown on this team has been terrible this season. I don't know how this guy still gets open when you can essentially leave everyone else but LeVeon Bell uncovered. The long TD for Martavis Bryant was the lone nice play outside of Brown, who even had to throw for a TD in this game.
Arian Foster- I love what Murray is doing this season but don't overlook Foster this year. Came back from significant back surgery to put up some more than respectable numbers with Ryan Fitzpatrick under center. Has assumed a large workload, taking some pretty significant hits, but has shown some durability (knocking on wood for you Condor). I love watching this guy run the football, so I hope he stays healthy the rest of the way.
That's week 7 for me broseidons, let me know what I missed. Also don't look now, but if Kaier keeps this run up he is a lock for manager of the year this season. Good work from the Dirtdogs!
Saturday, October 18, 2014
Notes From the Commissioner's Desk
Half-way through the season, The Equalizer looks to be in great shape. There’s lots of parity, and I legitimately believe any 6 teams could make the playoffs. We have more two-win teams than any other, and they’re only two games out of second place. The second half of the season is shaping up to be a classic Upstate barnburner.
If we just look at history, though, those teams below .500 have a severe uphill battle to the playoffs. Since 2009’s inaugural season, only three teams* were below .500 at the midway point and made the playoffs. Interestingly, the most common record for future playoff teams was 3-3, so our bevy of 2-4 teams could change everything.
Below I’ve outlined some thoughts on each team going forward. A State of the Franchise address, as seen through my own league-managing colored glasses. Let’s have a great second half out there, and stay true to yourselves.
(*- 2010 St. Hugo’s Battalion 2-4; 2011 Home Depot Cabinet Faces 2-3-1; 2014 Redwood Chipalopes 1-5 [admittedly, I forgot about the insane run LJ went on last year after his horrific start, but it’s still pretty crazy])
Ants in My Eyes Collins
First alphabetically and first in our hearts. The team from Milwaukee is all about the streak. 3-0 to start the season, and winless ever since. The only reason the Collins’ aren’t sitting at .500 is because of a Monday Night miracle from Russ Wilson’s legs, which earned a tie with the TD’s after stat corrections. The AJ Green injury has frustrated the coaching staff, as has the lack of a consistent running attack. The TE position has come together nicely, but figuring out which guy to start may prove tricky. The team sits decently at 5th in total points, and precariously at 2nd in points against with the top 2 teams in the league yet to face. Some early season splurging on the FAB may come back to haunt the Collins’ later this year.
Playoff bound if: Hillman solidifies himself as a weekly starter in Denver, Vereen picks up all of Stevan Ridley’s slack in New England, and AJ Green gets a bionic toe
BAMA bound if: The Denver, New England and New Orleans backfields all turn into messes, Green gets prolonged time on the bench, and either Dez or Edelman get hurt
Dark Force
The Force had a rough first four weeks to the season, going oh-fer while still scoring over 100 in three matchups. But as we all know, it’s not how you start, it’s how you finish. The last two weeks have seen the Force rebound in a huge way by taking the crown for most points scored both times. What’s more, those two weekly high scores are also the two highest scoring weeks of the entire Equalizer season (credit to Roc City- he’s tied for second with 159). The Thomas teammates in Denver have certainly helped, with Demaryius grabbing 42 and 28 points, and Julius with 24 and 21. With Mohammed Sanu filling in superbly for AJ Green, and Matt Forte leading the league in receptions, the Force is threatening big time for the upcoming second half. The remaining schedule is also favorable, with only one match against a team currently above .500.
Playoff bound if: Eddie Lacy turns into the guy everyone thought he would be, and
Sammy Watkins busts open to justify trading away Ben Tate
BAMA bound if: Eddie Lacy stays right where he is, injuries take one of the Thomas’, and nobody on the bench steps up to be a reliable Flex play
Ethan’s Mom’s Panties
Many journalists are starting to refer to Washington’s NFL team without including the nickname. I would prefer to do the same here, but every part of the Panties name is offensive. I am at least consoled by the fact that this team sits dead last in points scored, wasting the opportunity to grab more wins by virtue of having the second best points against margin. The Panties did sustain a huge gut punch when AP was lost to suspension, and nobody else has stepped up to pick up the slack. Aaron Rodgers has been hit or miss, with only three games over 20 points, and stud TE Jordan Cameron has been hampered due to injury. Bright spots for the second half do abound, however. Jerick McKinnon is seemingly poised to get the majority of carries in Minnesota and Rueben Randle has all of a sudden become the Giants number one receiving option. James Jones and Andre Johnson have quietly and consistently been putting up solid numbers, and if the 49ers remember to keep giving the ball to Frank Gore, this fantasy team might make a run.
Playoff bound if: Michael Floyd gets rid of this injury and goes on to be the top 10
receiver we all thought he would be, the Minnesota backfield becomes a one man show and Rodgers asserts himself as worthy of the discount double check on a consistent basis
BAMA bound if: Johnson and Jones flounder from inconsistent QB play, Gore gets
hurt, Minnesota gets into a RBBC, and no other WR’s step up
The Fat Cats
Through our first four weeks, the Cats dominated the standings. Scores of 139, 141 and 159 made this team a scary foe, but apparently as Calvin Johnson and Jimmy Graham go, so does this team. Currently on a two game losing streak, the Cats are looking to right the ship in a hurry with its top dawgs on the injured list. Fortunately, the Cats have some wiggle room, especially after hitting free agent gold on Ahmad Bradshaw and Justin Forsett. Plus, Mark Ingram should be back soon, and Steve Smith sold his soul on his trip to Baltimore. Having Philip Rivers dominate the QB stats has helped greatly as well.
Playoff bound if: Johnson and Graham come back just fine, Odell Beckham gets hot
with Victor Cruz out for the year, and bevy of running backs stay productive
BAMA bound if: Injuries continue to wreak havoc, no RB asserts himself enough,
and the trio of Rivers, Nelson and Smith come back down to earth
Las Vegas Outlaws
The 3-3 Outlaws are chugging along as best they can. After 149 points in week one, this team is sitting at 8th place in points scored and points against, but has two wins while scoring less than 100 points. The hot story for the Outlaws at the moment is injuries, specifically to the running back position. Moreno, Ridley and Ball are all hurting, and Le’Veon Bell is the only player hanging on. The trade for Richardson should provide some stability, but he’s not going to be lighting up the scoreboard if his history tells us anything. Still, Antonio Brown has proven to be PPR gold, Bell has been solid, and new pickup Andre Holmes has huge TD potential in Oakland. The TE position is quite shallow after another injury to Dennis Pitta forced ownership to start the other Raven Owen Daniels.
Playoff bound if: Richardson or Jonathan Stewart actually turns out to be a solid RB2,
Vincent Jackson has a big rebound, Nick Foles has a redux from last year, and Owen
Daniels starts catching touchdowns each game
BAMA bound if: The injuries keep coming and nobody steps up to be a WR2 or Flex,
the TE position stays mediocre
The Old Guys Club
Last year’s champs have had a rough go of it so far. As Varney pointed out on the blog, the Old Guys have three losses of 5 points or less, which is as agonizing as it gets. The easy first target for the Club’s woes is stud preseason favorite Jamaal Charles, who has only one game with more than 10 points (although that one game was for 31). The $7 keeper Gio Bernard has salvaged half of the team’s backfield, but the RB heavy strategy of the Club has not worked out like last year. Chris Johnson is clearly behind Chris Ivory in Gotham, Toby Gerhart has proven why he was only a backup all these years (*sigh*), and Bishop Sankey is only starting to pass Shonn Greene on the depth chart because of injuries. What’s actually come together nicely is this team’s WR core. Larry Fitzgerald was drafted to be the number one, but the trio of Sanders, Hilton and Hopkins, and the flashes from Brandin Cooks, have to be pleasing to the Club’s front office. TE has been hit or miss with Ertz, but Jay Cutler is doing pretty well, and how about Catanzaro the kicker stacking up four games of nine or more points.
Playoff bound if: Charles turns it around to be the man we all expected, the right WR’s
get started each week, and Ertz gets a better rapport with Foles during the bye this
week
BAMA bound if: Charles keeps up the duds and Sankey can’t carry the load in
Tennessee, the wrong WR’s keep getting started, and Jay Cutler keeps throwing
too many interceptions
PB Pandemonium
Besides a dud in week on, the Pandemonium has consistently scored solid points and sits fourth in total points scored on the season, while catching a break with tenth in points against. If you point to one player that has led this team to prominence, it’s got to be DeMarco Murray. Having the league leader in rushing from a guy who wasn’t a top tier RB talent heading into the season always helps, especially pairing him with keeper Peyton Manning. But we can’t overlook Chris Ivory scoring double digit points the first four weeks to solidify Pandemonium’s backfield, and now Branden Oliver has risen in San Diego out of complete obscurity. Larry Donnell shored up the TE position, and with Jordan Reed now back it only gets better. Or what about Randall Cobb grabbing a touchdown in all but one game? Unfortunately, when Victor Cruz went down, so did the value of the Pandemonium bench depth. Malcolm Floyd is boom or bust, and Markus Wheaton and Michael Crabtree have not taken advantage of their opportunity. The best handcuff this team has was just arrested for shoplifting, so anymore injuries could seriously limit Pandemonium’s potential.
Playoff bound if: The status quo is maintained and both TE’s produce starter worthy
numbers
BAMA bound if: Murray goes down from the heavy workload, Reed gets another
concussion, Cobb stops grabbing touchdowns, and Andrew Luck keeps looking
more and more at Hilton instead of Reggie Wayne
Redwood Chipalopes
Looking at the box scores, the Chipalopes have had a rollercoaster season. They scored their highest point total of the year in week one and lost. Two wins have come by three points or less, and two other losses have been very poor points scoring performances. Matt Stafford has been wildly inconsistent, Lesean McCoy went silent for a while, and no RB2 has been able to last very long. Brandon Marshall and Percy Harvin are up and down, and all the while Josh Gordon lurks in the backroom of his car dealership waiting to suit up for Redwood. Greg Olsen has been this team’s rock alongside Stephen Gostowski, booting anything he can get a foot on in New England. With only three RB’s on the roster, management has to hope Rashad Jennings stays out for a while to give Andre Williams lots of touches. Anquan Boldin isn’t lacking for looks, and Eddie Royal continues to defy the odds to stay relevant. After a matchup with 4-2 Pandemonium this week, Redwood only faces one team currently at or above .500, so the schedule has the door open for these hungry Chipalopes.
Playoff bound if: McCoy gets back to being an ace, Marshall gets over the nagging
injuries, Percy Harvin’s new home in New York raises his value, and Josh Gordon
easily picks up where last year left off
BAMA bound if: A RB injury further depletes this crew, Stafford can’t get it going,
and the WR’s all flounder to varying degrees
Roc City Super Dudes
The best record in the league belongs to this team here, thanks in part to the best points against margin, and that with Dark Force hanging 184 on them in week 5. The Dudes have three wins using less than 120 points, including a very fortunate 80-63 win in week 2. But a win is a win is a win is a win. Scheduling can only play so much a part of this game, and the Dudes roster is as deep as any team in the league. Without injuries, the Dudes have five startable RB’s and four of the best PPR WR’s you could have. And this all without Jason Witten being his normal high volume catching self. The Bengals defense started out real hot, and the 49’ers have picked up the slack since week four. The only weakness is at the QB position, as Matt Ryan has been only mediocre since his huge week one performance. Tony Romo is certainly a viable option on the bench, but you never know when he’ll throw up four picks. The Dudes have been fortunate thus far, but the team should only score more points going forward, especially with Lamar Miller being the man in Miami and Pierre Garcon benefitting from a possible return from RGIII.
Playoff bound if: Julio and Alshon start grabbing 20 point games to carry the team,
Witten gets more involved, Joique Bell runs rampant with Reggie out, and everyone else just does their job
BAMA bound if: The middling points scored continues and the points against start
to pile up, especially if the struggles continue with Ryan, Witten, and Garcon
Saskatchewan Rough Riders
Our Canadian team via Arizona has been the unluckiest thus far. The Rough Riders have the highest points against total by more than 30 points, and have the second least points scored. Three games scoring less than 100 have hurt, but despite the wide point margin the Riders still have two wins, one of which was by a single point in week four. The big story for the Riders is underperformance. Alfred Morris, Keenan Allen, Torrey Smith, CJ Spiller. All names expected to do good things this year, but have totally busted thus far. Funnily enough, having Eli Manning at QB has worked out pretty well. We can sum up the Riders season just by looking at the current Flex starter- Miles Austin. But that doesn’t mean things can’t turn around. Delanie Walker has been the bright spot, and there’s no indication he’ll slow down. Allen and Morris can’t get any worse, and Marquise Lee is finally healthy on a Jags team throwing the ball a whole bunch. Marshawn Lynch could certainly beast mode the rest of this team into playing better.
Playoff bound if: The disappointments turn things around, the Giants offense slingsthe
rock, somebody emerges as a Flex, and the point differential gets much more
favorable
BAMA bound if: Nothing changes, nobody steps up, and injuries make things even
worse
SGF Dirtdogs
Two straight solid performances in a row have almost erased the sour taste of the opening four weeks of points scoring drudgery. Tom Brady finally started putting things together, Desean Jackson has been much more boom than bust, and Golden Tate has emerged as a great option in Detroit with Megatron out. Antonio Gates having a top two QB has helped, and Vernon Davis as a Flex is highly palatable. Fred Jackson continues to drink from the fountain of youth, and Isaiah Crowell seems to have earned a significant portion of the carries in Cleveland. What’s more, the Dirtdogs have already played four of the teams currently above .500. If injuries don’t hit this team, things could continue to rise. That’s a big if, though. Reggie Bush is already struggling to stay on the field, and Wes Welker is clearly the fourth option in Denver. Donald Brown was a nothing even when healthy, and Blount had one standout game to carry the season. The Dirtdogs are standing precariously on the edge of fantasy production, but you never know what could happen with this game.
Playoff bound if: Brady, Tate and Jackson keep it up to hold the team together,
Gates and Davis contribute TD’s when necessary, and Crowell keeps getting more
carries
BAMA bound if: Jackson and Crowell fade off, Tate loses catches when Calvin comes
back, Jackson stops getting the long bombs, and any injuries crop up
Touch My TD’s
Our highest scoring team is a combined three points from being 5-1. The TD’s haven’t scored less than 108 points all season, and that was week one. Two straight weeks of 144 and 143 show the big time potential for the TD’s going forward. Having the number one player in fantasy has certainly helped, but the points don’t stop with Andrew Luck. Arian Foster has been huge since coming over after the week two trade, Gronk Nation is doing his big thing, Jeremy Maclin paid off big early in the year, and Mike Wallace is enjoying a nice bounce back season. Plus, it doesn’t hurt that the Eagles defense has 20 or more points the last three weeks. This all happening while Doug Martin, Roddy White and Cordarrelle Patterson have done almost nothing to contribute. As hot as this team has been, I only see it getting better in the second half. Even if anything goes wrong, Cam Newton leads the list of potential trade bait.
Playoff bound if: Andre Ellington gets even better, and one of the WR’s steps up to
be a consistent number two
BAMA bound if: Injuries take a heavy toll as a drone strike hits TD’s headquarters
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