2009 Free Fantasy Football Tonight Blog With Jeff Mans from Fantasy Football Search

Friday, October 31, 2008

The Guru Gridiron Report: Week 9 Bench/Start Defenses

Week 9 brings another round of challenging BYE week players including Drew Brees, Philips Rivers, LT, and Frank Gore to name a few. The San Francisco 49ers, New Orleans Saints, Carolina Panthers, San Diego Chargers are all on BYE this week, so find your waiver players early because there will be allot of people hunting. If you have a deep bench, get ready to use it. Here are our week 9 picks.

DEFENSES AND YOU MUST START
We not liking the matchup for the Buffalo Bills defense, but you have to start them this week at home against the Jets. Jacksonville looked bad last week, but we think they can make it up against Cincinnati this week. Cleveland always plays well at home and they have Baltimore in their sites. Start them. Tampa Bay is a must start this week, even on the road. We think Green Bay will beat Tennessee and it starts with their defense.

Others: Chicago, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Houston

Other DEFENSES To Consider Starting With Some Risk
The New York Giants defense will get their fair share of sacks and INTs against the Cowboys this week. We wouldn't recommend starting Arizona's defense, but they can put up some good numbers if they play good football vs the Rams. Its without a doubt a risky start, but has some big payoff. If Bob Sanders is back, you have to start Indianapolis at home. You have too. Finally, the NY Jets defense needs to put pressure on Edwards and if they can, he will make mistakes. They have 24 sacks through 7 games.

Others: Dallas, Baltimore, Tennessee, Miami, Oakland, Washington, Minnesota, Dallas, New England

Please Bench These DEFENSES

Cincinnati, Detroit , St. Louis, Kansas City, Seattle, Denver

Sleeper Defenses

Detroit's defense has looked sharp against good teams this season when not expected. They are a deep sleeper, but expect a possible TD return and some sacks for the Lions. We really like Atlanta's defense to do some damage in Oakland against the Raiders. They are our sleeper trench defense. Another long shot is the Kansas City defense. They play well at home and matchup well against Tampa Bay.

The True Guru

Thursday, October 30, 2008

NFL Teams Policing Themselves

Have you noticed something about the NFL Conduct Policy this year? Maybe how, it’s working – masterfully, in fact?
Players are not going to stop getting in trouble – human nature won’t allow it. Any collection of 1,600 young adult males is going to have a few bad apples. (Numbers show that the NFL actually has fewer bad apples than American society on average, if we are to believe the arrests numbers.) But what the NFL Conduct Policy has done is empowered, or coerced, teams into reprimanding their own problem children.
We have seen an unprecedented amount of team-issued discipline handed down this season. Individual clubs have taken the initiative to clean up any messes that arise. And it’s not just about players who get in legal trouble; proverbial head cases have felt the iron fist, as well. Take a look at all the team-issued discipline this season. You’ll notice that ALL of the players listed below are guys who have had cloudy reputations in the past.

New York Giants, Plaxico Burress – suspension
The defending World Champions have discovered that their foundation is stronger than their individual parts – including the talented yet roguish 6’5” wide receiver. The Giants suspended Burress for a game earlier this year after he skipped a Monday meeting. They also benched him in the first quarter of last Sunday’s contest at Pittsburgh after he failed to show up for a treatment on his neck.

New York Giants, Jeremy Shockey – traded
The Giants first came to realize that they could survive – nay, thrive – without some of their narcissistic stars when they made their Super Bowl run while the Pro Bowl tight end was out with a broken leg. Shockey’s reclusive behavior during the offseason, and derisive outburst at GM Jerry Reese in training camp, eventually got him traded.

Kansas City Chiefs, Larry Johnson – benched
Four times in five years the star running back has been accused of assault on a woman (usually at a nightclub). Factor in his sporadic whining and moping and it becomes easy to see why the Chiefs have gotten fed up. Herm Edwards has inactivated Johnson for each of the past two games. This ordeal may not be finished; on Tuesday, Johnson went to New York and met with Roger Goodell. To the running back’s credit, he has publicly owned up to his latest mistake and has acknowledged a need for significant changes in his life.

Pittsburgh Steelers, Santonio Holmes – suspended
The Steelers chose to face arguably the best team in football last week without their leading receiver and most dynamic offensive threat. Why? Earlier in the week, Holmes was stopped by police and admitted to having marijuana in his possession. This was the young wideout’s third run-in with the law since being drafted. Holmes has publicly apologized for the incident, though don’t be shocked if he too winds up meeting with Goodell at some point.

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The Guru Gridiron Report: Week 9 Bench/Start WRs & TEs

WIDE RECEIVERS YOU MUST START
Again, Wes Welker will be thrown to quite a bit especially if this game develops into a shootout. Terrell Owens will get more action this week. We called it last week and he failed us, but he cannot be this bad this long. Donnie Avery makes it to our big list for the first time. He will be involved in the shoot out in St. Louis. Brandon Marshall is back and should have lots of success at hoe against Miami.

Others: Andre Johnson, Larry Fitzgerald, Anquan Boldin, Greg Jennings, Randy Moss, Bobby Wade, Hines Ward

TIGHT ENDS YOU MUST START

Chris Cooley, Anthony Fasano, Owen Daniels, John Carleson, Marcedes Lewis, Zach Miller, Tony Scheffler, Bo Scaife

Other Wide Receivers To Consider Starting With Some Risk
Farve has a good history of throwing well against good defenses. Start both Lavernues Coles and Jerricho Cotchery with confidence. We think that Roddy White will have a down week against Oakland, but he is still a must start. We really like Antonio Bryant this week as well for a great game against Kansas City. If Reggie Brown plays and he is healthy, look for a good game out of him. The risk here is, will he be healthy. Steve Breaston should continue to catch lots of passes, but not many TDs. You have to start him this week. Derrick Mason should be very active against Cleveland's defense and could find the end zone. Torry Holt hasn't been much this season, but look for him to shine a bit against Arizona. We have a feel this is a week he will score. Regardless what anyone says, Plaxico Burress is a risky start, but he's a must start against Dallas. Keep our fingers crossed.

Others: Donald Driver, Chansi Stuckey, Marvin Harrison, Kevin Walters, , Greg Camarillo, T.J. Houshmandzadeh, DeSean Jackson, Calvin Johnson, Braylon Edwards, Eddie Royal, Roy Williams, Steve Smith (NYG), Santana Moss, Kevin Curtis, Nate Washington

Other Tight Ends To Consider Starting With Some Risk

Donald Lee, Dustin Keller, Benjamin Watson, Jason Witten(Check Injury Status), Kevin Boss

Please Bench These Wide Receivers
Bench Chad Johnson against Jacksonville. He is becoming less valuable all the time and this is not a good matchup for him. We actually like Donte Stallworth this week, but his quadricep injury could hold him back, so we say bench him. Dwayne Bowe will catch passes, but not much against Tampa Bay's defense.

Others: Michael Jenkins, Javon Walker, Brandon Jones, Justin Gage, Antwaan Randle El

Please Bench These Tight Ends

Todd Heap, Alge Crumpler, Kellen Winslow

Sleeper Wide Receivers
We really like Ted Ginn Jr. to have a repeat performance against Denver's awful secondary. Look for 105 yards and a TD. A nice deep sleeper this week is Brandon Stokely. First make sure he will be playing after suffering the concussion a few wee back. If he plays he should catch 4-5 passes for 85 yards and score at least once. We like Austin Miles his week to catch a long pass, so look for him to have a solid fill in week.

Good luck. Next are our Defenses!

The True Guru

The Guru Gridiron Report: Week 9 Bench/Start Runningbacks

RUNNINGBACKS YOU MUST START
Marion Barber and Brandon Jacobs will go at it in a game where running will be needed to win. Figure both for nice games. Marshawn Lynch should have a great game against the NY Jets. Big week for Ernest Graham and company to hammer the Kansas City Chiefs. This should be a big game for Michael Turner against the Raiders. The Raiders can stop the pass, but not the run. Big Matt Forte is back. He should have a great game on the ground and catching passes for your PPR leagues.

Others: Ernest Graham, Brian Westbrook, Maurice Jones-Drew, Steven Jackson (Check Injury Status), Adrian Peterson, Willis McGahee

Other Runningbacks To Consider Starting With Some Risk
Tim Hightower has to start from this point on. He won't get allot of carries, but he almost good for 1, maybe 2 TDs a game and will start getting more carries. The Jets will lean on Thomas Jones to establish the pass against Buffalo. There is risk, but he should do alright. IF Warrick Dunn is healthy he is a good play this week to get some catches and carries against the woeful KC defense. We said IF. We like Joseph Addai to comeback this week and have a solid game against New England. He won't get more than 15-16 carries as they spell him with Rhodes, but he should be effective. Just monitor his injury status through Sunday. Tough week for Clinton Portis against Pittsburgh. You can't bench him, so hope for the best. We'd say, bench him. We like LenDale White cause we figure he will score 1 TD on 10 carries for 7 yards.

Others: Jamal Lewis, Kevin Faulk, DeAngelo Williams, Julius Jones, Ernest Graham, Ronnie Brown, Michael Pittman, Fred Taylor

Please Bench These Runningbacks
Bench Cedric Benson. Jacksonville's defense will dominate this game. If Addai is back, then bench Rhodes. Dominic Rhodes will get 10-12 carries, but not enough to matter and Addai will get the important carries. Chris Johnson is a bench. The Green Bay defense is very good and should neutralize the Titans offense. Bench Ryan Grant as well. This is not his game. People expecting a repeat performance from Leon Washington are kidding themselves.

Others: Rudi Johnson, Kevin Smith, Edgerrin James, Darren McFadden, Kolby Smith, Selvin Young, Julius Jones, Willie Parker, Mewelde Moore, Ahman Green

Sleeper Runningbacks
This week we like Justin Fargas against Atlanta. This is a good week to start Ricky Williams. He will find the end zone against Denver and get 75 total yards. We called BenJarvus Green-Ellis a sleeper last week and we will do it again. Look for 50 yards and a TD.

Good luck. Next are our Wide Receivers and Tight Ends!

The True Guru

The Guru Gridiron Report: Week 9 Bench/Start Quarterbacks

QUARTERBACKS YOU MUST START
Kurt Warner is a confirmed stud whether you like it or not and he has a fantastic matchup going back to St. Louis where it all started. Eli Manning will be a fight with the Cowboys, so we expect him to come through. We assume Buress is playing. Marc Bulger will pop up this week in the must start section. He will match egos with Warner or at least try. David Garrard is heating up and he is quickly becoming the QB we expected him to be. If you have Peyton Manning don't be afraid to start him this week. The Colts need a win badly and they are at home against a rival. Also start him counterpart Matt Cassel.

Others: Donovan McNabb, Jay Cutler, Matt Schaub, Brett Farve, Ben Roethlisberger

Other Quarterbacks To Consider Starting With Some Risk
Matt Ryan should be a solid start to what should be a solid home pass defense of the Raiders. Jeff Garcia should make up for the loss in Dallas with a much better start against KC. Brett Farve won't put up the biggest number, but he should get a couple of TDs against Buffalo. Brad Johnson is a desperation start, but with all that talent he's hard not to start if you are desperate.

Others: , Trent Edwards, Derek Anderson, Kyle Orton, Gus Frerotte, Aaron Rodgers

Please Bench These Quarterbacks
Tyler Thigpen Will have a very bad day against Tampa Bay. Tony Romo is still OUT, so that sucks for Romo owners.

Others: Dan Orlovsky, Joe Flacco, Ryan Fitzpatrick, Kerry Collins, Seneca Wallace

Sleeper Quarterbacks
Chad Pennington should be able to throw early and often against Denver. If you have a QB on th BYE week, this is your week to use Pennington. We aren't saying that he will do big things, but this game against Atlanta is a great matchup for the Raiders at home and we can see Russell throwing 1 and running 1. Either way, JaMarcus Russell will get 2 TDs.

Good luck. Next are our Runningbacks!

The True Guru

Tuesday, October 28, 2008

The Guru Gridiron Report: Expert League Week 8 Games

2008 Fantasy Football Search Expert League

The Guru Gridiron Report has an exciting week 6 of action in the Fantasy Football Search Expert League. Another huge week as teams are needing wins badly and a separation is beginning to form. With only 6 playoff spots up for grabs, 14 teams battle for those prized spots in week 6.

The expert league being hosted at http://www.fantasyfootballsearch.com/2008_fantasy_football_expert_league.asp. Every week will bring you updates, scores, and analysis of what went on in that week in The 2008 Fantasy Football Search Expert League.

BLOWOUT OF THE WEEK
For the second week of the season, Fantasy Playbook takes the blowout of the week. This time at the hands of Johnny Archive. It was the biggest lose of the week, and a hard one to swallow AJ's team has been decimated by injuries, the biggest being Tom Brady. Let's be honest, the BYE week killed Fantasy Playbook as they couldn't even man an entire roster, only 7 players. Johnny Archive had huge days from Donnie Avery, Matt Schaub, and Santan Moss to lead the way to victory. With this loss AJ is pretty much eliminated from the playoffs, but we wouldn't count him out for some more wins this season.

What a huge win for Rhett. Facing complete mathematical elimination he beats a tough team team in Scout Fantasy Football and handed Jeff Mans his 3rd loss of the year. Scout Fantasy Football was without Steven Jackson and that cost him big. BYES also hurt him as he had to start Brad Johnson. Lets just state this. Out of his whole team, 2 players scored more than 10 points. Shaun McDonald and Duece McCallister. Need we say more. Fantasy Sports Zone had big gems from Lavernues Coles, Antonio Gates, and Kevin Faulk to lead his team.

Owners Box Sports finally got back to winning ending a losing slide. It was a close matchup with Fantasy Football Starters, but in the end he muscled his way to victory with huge days from Drew Brees and Anquan Boldin. They totaled 64 of his total points. Fantasy Football Starters was really beat by those two guys and held strong with great performances Frank Gore and Steve Smith. In the end Edgerrin James did him in with a -1 score.

Big Game Fantasy Sports continues his winning streak with a 5th consecutive win and this time over a tough team in Junkyard Jake. Except for LJ Smith, his entire team played well. Notably Andre Johnson and DeAngelo Williams scoring a combined 50 points. Junkyard Jake kept it close with Marshawn Lynch, Dwayne Bowe, and Matt Ryan, but came up short in this matchup of Goliaths. With this win, Big Game Fantasy Sports takes the lead in the West Division.

Team Bowser came off his first lost angry and ripped his clothes off like the Hulk and dominated Nooseason.com. Paul ran for cover this week and managed an alright performance. Roddy White and Kurt Warner laid down the rules for this game and put up a combined 64 points on his way to a huge victory. Larry Fitzgerald dropped in 21, so between the 3 players he matched Nooffseason.com's entire team with 85 points! Xtreme Fantasy Football remains the # power ranking team in the league to date.

The tightest matchup of the week goes to these guys, but in the end a big win for Mock Draft Central. Both teams played very well, but in the end, MDC won with gritty performances from Jason Campbell and Dominic Rhodes. Fighting Chance Fantasy kept pace with surprise performances from Chad Pennington and Tony Gonzalez. Overall this was the closest and best matchup of the week that went all the way into Monday night to determine the winner.

Fantasy Football Search is in a free fall. The True Guruhas taken two significant injuries by losing Tonyo Romo and Reggie Bush. This week with some BYEs I started Malcolm Floyd, Green-Ellis, and Kolby Smith. It was brutal, but I put up a good fight. I have to win from this point on and that will be tough being I have the best team in the league next week in Xtreme Fantasy Football at 7-1. Pro Fantasy Games put u a huge day from Brian Westbrook (41) and Jake Delhomme added in 22 points to secure the big victory. Pro Fantasy Games moves ahead of FFS , but they remained tied with 4-4 records.

Week 7 Match Ups:

Fantasy Football Starters (4-4) Vs Fantasy Sports Zone (2-6)

This is a badly needed win for Fantasy Football Starters to keep pace. Fantasy Sports Zone is eliminated yet, but another loss should do it.

Xtreme Fantasy Football (7-1) Vs Fantasy Football Search (4-4)
XFF is going into week 9 facing the reeling Fantasy Football Search team. Fantasy Football Search needs wins badly and this will be a tough week to get one.

Big Game Fantasy Sports (5-3) Vs. Pro Fantasy Games (4-4) Big matchup for both teams. Pro Fantasy Games is one game from tying for the division lead and Big Game Fantasy Sports is going for a 6th straight win.

Fighting Chance Fantasy (2-6) Vs. Nooffseason.com (4-4)
Nooffseason.com looks to virtually eliminate Fighting Chance Fantasy with a 3d straight win.

Johnny Archive (3-5) Vs Mock Draft Central (4-4)
Johnny Archive is facing a hot Mock Draft Central team and needs a big win to keep pace in the West. MDC can use a win to move into better position in the East.

Junkyard Jake (5-3) Vs Scout Fantasy Football (5-3)
Two 5-3 teams hammer it out. Neither need a win badly, but both want this game badly.

Owners Box Sports (5-3) Vs. NFL Fantasy Playbook (2-6)
Owners Box Sports needs to play carefully. NFL Fantasy Playbook isn't a very good team, but they can sneak up on you.

Labels: Fantasy Football Search Expert League

The Guru Gridiron Report: The True Guru Goes 3-3 In a Smash Mouth Week!

Leagues: 6 (3 Yahoo!, 2 CBS Sportsline, 1 ESPN)
Total Record: 35-13

This was a smash mouth week of football as nearly every match was against a top-notch opponent in the respected league. Add in the fact that injuries and BYEs brutalized my teams I have to say I was happy to walk away 3-3 and I remain undefeated in the Coast-2-Coast league. Here are my six matchups for week 8:

Coast 2 Coast League

This week I faced my nemesis and the only man to beat me in this league last season, Tharp's Titans. This week I had Brain Westbrook and Kurt Warner back and they lead my team to a huge victory. They combined for 62 of my 116 points on the way to my 8 consecutive victory in this league. I did have a 50+ point lead going into Monday night with only Reggie Wayne left. The Titan's had Manning, Bironas, and the Titans DEF. I held strong.

Football Dynasty VI

A very tough loss. This is a league where you start 10 offensive guys and 10 defensive guys and with only 4 bench spots. Add in that I have Tony Romo and Reggie Bush out. Needless to say I had allot of holes I could not fill and it was exploited. I felt I would have won this if I didn't lose 5 players to BYES or if I had Romo and Bush, but overall I'm 6-2 and only 1 game out of 1st place and I face that first place team this week!

J.A.I.L. League

My latest rival and good friend RC Rizza from Junkyard Jake has beaten again for the second consecutive week in a different league. This game remained tight all the way until when Chris Johnson slashed in for that final TD on Monday night. Overall, my team did well enough to beat 10 teams, but losing Jason Witten who put up a goose egg hurt. This week I made a trade and acquired Andre Johnson for Plaxico Burress and Jonathan Stewart. He was my biggest scoring player with 19 points. Terrell Owens, along with DeSean Jackson, and Jason Witten did me in combining for only 13 points.

Vegas Vs Texas League

The biggest win of the week for me and I scored high score for the season. The 6-1 Ravens got smashed by my team that was nearly whole except for Brandon Marshall. I moved within 1 game of the division with this win. I had a huge week from Brian Westbrook, David Garrard, and the Redskins DEF/ST. LarryFitzgerald and Andre Johnson didn't score, but both had huge games. Even my kicker Shaun Suisham had a huge day. This was a badly needed win as I remain in second place in my division at 5-3 with most points.

NSP Experts League

This expert league never lets me down and this week I took on a good friend in Johnny Archive and it was a virtual beat down. This game was over before it started. Massive performances from Drew Brees, Brian Westbrook, and Antonio Gates. Even a BYE week grab in Nate Washington produced a decent game with a touchdown and 13 points. I scored the most points in this league and my team definitely has the momentum in this league. I acquired Westbrook during his BYE week and next week I should get Addai back to replace Rhodes on my team. I'm in third place 1 game out of first place at 5-2. Next weeks game is a big one against AJ Pelletier.

Fantasy Football Search Expert League This team is in a free fall. The Fantasy Football Search expert league, which I'm hosting is by far my worse team. I've taken two significant injuries by losing Tonyo Romo and Reggie Bush. This week with some BYEs I started Malcolm Floyd, Green-Ellis, and Kolby Smith. It was brutal, but I put up a good fight. I have to win from this point on and that will be tough being I have the best team in the league next week in Xtreme Fantasy Football at 7-1.

Monday, October 27, 2008

The Guru Gridiron Report: Week 8 Review & Recap

Wow was week 8 a strange week. There were many good teams and great fantasy players out on the BYE and mix that in with tough injuries to guys like Tony Romo, Steven Jackson, and Reggie Bush sent guys scrambling for backup players. When the dust settled the results were mixed, but most big name players came to play and some new guys like rookie Donnie Avery came and showed his stuff. Let's analyze player values through week 8.

(Note: We missed week 7 with The True Guru down with the flu, so are new FVR values do reflect week 7 as well.)

Quarterbacks

Jay Cutler - EVEN FVR: 8.9

Hopefully the BYE will help him with the nagging injuries, but he has been in a slow decline since week 2. There is talk of benching him for others in some fantasy leagues.

Derek Anderson UPGRADED FVR: 8.0

Anderson is slowly doing better. 246 yards and a TD is another big step for him improving and being the QB we expect him to be. Its worth noting he did it against a great defense as well.

Gus Frerotte EVEN FVR: 7.0

He threw a TD and had one big play in this game to Berrian. He is at best a desperation BYE week start.

Philip Rivers UPGRADED FVR: 9.4

Rivers does two things well, throw TDs and lose. Whatever he does, he is an outstanding fantasy QB.

Tony Romo EVEN FVR: 8.9

Inured. Out till week 11.

Aaron Rodgers EVENFVR 8.9

BYE WEEK.

Jake Delhomme UPGRADED FVR: 8.4
Another solid game for Jake and he is really getting his chemistry back with Steve Smith.

Drew Brees EVEN FVR: 9.6

Another great game for Brees. He is one of the best fantasy QBs.

Donovan McNabb UPGRADED FVR: 8.6
He's getting back weapons and looking good. He rushed one him, but didn't throw any. Still, a good game.

J.T. O'Sullivan DOWNGRADED FVR: 6.0
He is no longer the starter for the 49ers. We expected this. Our favorite all year was Shaun Hill. Get him now.

Matt Schaub UPGRADED FVR: 8.7
Another great game for Schaub. He has the weapons and is really building chemistry.

Jason Campbell UPGRADED FVR: 8.4

Still needs more TDs, but he's getting the yards.

Matt Cassel UPGRADED FVR: 7.8
Needs to cut down on the INTs, but not a bad game overall. Still a backup fantasy QB.

Kurt Warner UPGRADED FVR: 9.5
381 yards and 2 TDs on the road. Pray he stays healthy.

Matt Hasselbeck EVEN FVR 7.2 LOOK TO TRADE
Injured.

Brett Farve - DOWNGRADED FVR: 8.5
Farve is throwing way too many INTs and not enough TDs. He had 2 this week, but against tougher defenses he would have had a terrible week. We were very high on Farve coming in and we can only hope the second half of the season produces better results.

David Garrard UPGRADED FVR: 8.0

Great week for Garrard, 283 yards and 2 TDs. As we expected he is in mid-season form and looking good.

Trent Edwards DOWNGRADED FVR: 7.7
Not the best on the road and should only be started at home and as your second QB.

Runningbacks

Marion Barber DOWNGRADED FVR: 9.1

He needs Romo back. The Cowboys just aren't moving the ball.

Steve Slaton EVEN FVR: 8.7

He didn't have much of a game, but remains a great runningback.

Reggie Bush EVEN FVR: 9.0
Injured for 2 to 4 weeks.

Tim Hightower UPGRADED FVR: 8.4 LOOK TO ACQUIRE
He got a TD and not much else. Not a bad 3rd RB if you need one.

Ronnie Brown - DOWNGRADED FVR: 8.4
We were expecting this decline. Expect more.

Matt Forte EVEN FVR: 8.8
BYE WEEK

Michael Turner DOWNGRADED FVR: 8.5
Turner is one of the top runners in the league, but lacks consistency Great game, good game, bad game, etc..

Ryan Grant EVEN FVR: 7.1 LOOK TO TRADE
BYE WEEK

Thomas Jones UPGRADED FVR: 8.5
Jones had a solid week and scored another TD.

Jonathon Stewart EVEN FVR: 6.9
Another tough week for Stewart.

Steven Jackson DOWNGRADED FVR: 8.6
Jackson was out with a quad injury. Hopefully its a one week injury.

Leon Washington UPGRADED FVR: 7.4
Big game. 2 TDs and he runs back punts.

Leonard Weaver UPGRADED FVR: 6.8
2 TDs for Seattle on passes nonetheless. Keep an eye on him, but don't get too excited.

Sammy Morris DOWNGRADED FVR 7.4
Out with Knee injury.

Wide Receiver

Terrell Owens DOWNGRADED FVR: 8.9
Wow. First double coverage, then no Romo. Now, Johnson stinks.

Donnie Avery UPGRADED FVR: 8.0
Quickly he is becoming Bulger's new friend and main target.

Kevin Walters UPGRADED FVR: 8.3
Very inconsistent, but another huge game with 2 TDs.

Jerricho Cotchery EVEN FVR: 8.7
Had a solid game, but no TDs. Still, he's Farve's favorite target.

Plaxico Buress DOWNGRADED FVR: 8.2 Look To Trade
Another bad week. Almost didn't play.

Andre Johnson UPGRADED FVR: 9.2
Another big game. He should continue to climb.

Torry Holt EVEN FVR: 6.0 LOOK TO TRADE
Its almost like he's not there.

DeSean Jackson DOWNGRADED FVR: 8.4
He had an OK game, but he is getting downgraded with the return of Westbrook, Curtis, and eventually Brown.

Greg Jennings EVEN FVR: 9.5
BYE WEEK

Roy Williams UPGRADED FVR: 8.1
He got his first TD as a Cowboy and is getting more reps.

Donald Driver EVEN FVR: 8.2
BYE WEEK

Braylon Edwards DOWNGRADED FVR 8.7
Needs to get open more and Anderson has to improve.

Randy Moss EVEN FVR: 8.4 LOOK TO TRADE
Coming off of last weeks game he's still Moss.

Larry Fitzgerald EVEN FVR: 9.7
Boldin got the TDs, but Fitzgerlad got the yards.

Steve Breaston UPGRADE FVR: 8.0
He may be #3, but 9 catches and 100+ yards says he is still a fantasy WR.

Tight Ends

Mercedes Lewis EVEN FVR: 7.8
We like this guy and as Garrard get hotter, so will Lewis. Caught a long TD in week 6.

Antonio Gates EVEN FVR: 9.5
Back to #1 in Tight Ends for Gates.

Jason Witten DOWNGRADED FVR: 8.5
No Romo and now some bad ribs. Big drop.

Dustin Keller EVEN FVR: 6.1
Where was this guy week 6?

John Carlson DOWNGRADED FVR: 7.9
Not much activity for Carlson this week.

Tony Gonzalez UPGRADED FVR: 8.6

Had a big game against the Jets and caught a TD.

Chris Cooley EVEN FVR: 8.8
6 catches and some yards. Not a bad day.

Visanthe Shiancoe EVEN FVR: 7.2
BYE WEEK

We apologize For Calling Terrible Defenses In Week 7

I want to apologize to our readers for our calls on team defenses for week 8 We did have some successful calls, but overall it was a dismal week for defenses. We apologize for the following defenses and hope you will forgive us:

MUST START DEFENSES:
New England
Jacksonville

START WITH RISK DEFENSES:
New Orleans
Indianapolis
Buffalo

BENCH THESE DEFENSES
Pittsburgh
NT Giants
Seattle

SLEEPER DEFENSES
NY Jets
San Francisco

I promise we will do much better in week 9. We don't normally apologize for bad weeks, but this was an especially bad week on the defenses. I hope nobody lost because of their defense this week.

NFL TOUCHDOWN SUNDAY SNIDE REMARKS - WEEK 8

New York Giants 21, Pittsburgh Steelers 14
Great win for the Giants – they were clearly the better team on Sunday. The New York secondary absolutely stifled the Steeler receivers (you may have noticed Ben Roethlisberger holding the ball for half an hour every time he dropped back). Also, Pittsburgh’s mediocre offensive line could not handle the Giants’ aggressive front seven.

Steve Spagnuolo might be the best defensive coordinator in the league right now. Few dial up blitzes as effectively as him. Sure, he has some stars to work with, but overall, the Giant D is middle of the road in terms of raw talent. Yet it’s performing at an elite level.

Can’t remember the last time I saw a Giants game that didn’t include the announcers beating an Eli Manning storyline to death. Thank you, Kenny Albert and Troy Aikman.

Speaking of the Fox broadcast, did anyone see Pam Oliver botch her report at the beginning of the second half? It might be worth You Tubing (if you have an extra minute or two).

James Harrison sailed a long snap over Mitch Berger’s head for a late game-tying safety. Here’s what I don’t understand: why doesn’t the backup center, or even starting center, handle the long snap duties in emergency situations?

New York has the best rushing attack in football this season. This alone should be enough to finally send one of these starting offensive linemen to Hawaii (I vote for right guard Chris Snee).

Plaxico Burress didn’t get an opportunity to truly stick it to his former team Sunday because he began the game on the bench as punishment for missing a treatment on a neck injury. Ironically, it’s this kind of behavioral garbage that helped make the Steelers Burress’s former team to begin with.

Dallas Cowboys 13, Tampa Bay Buccaneers 9
This was a very good defensive struggle, highlighted by two ravenous run-stopping front sevens. For the Bucs, the speed of the defensive line gave Dallas trouble. For the Cowboys, linebacker Bradie James and nose tackles Jay Ratliff and Tank Johnson were big difference-makers.

Terrell Owens had only 33 yards receiving, but he stayed positive afterward. A sign that Owens has maybe grown up – a little – is that he seems to realize the offense is going to be treading water as long as Brad Johnson is under center.

Jeff Garcia is playing at a Pro Bowl level. Few quarterbacks elude the rush and keep their eyes downfield as well as he does. And few can move on from their first read, progress through two more, then come back and hit their first read later in the play.

The formula for beating Dallas is blitzing Johnson and jamming the wide receivers. Tampa Bay did that on Sunday, they just didn’t get any big plays offensively or on special teams.

Cowboys rookie corners Mike Jenkins and Orlando Scandrick had excellent games. Obviously, they must continue to play at a high level while Terence Newman, and now possibly Anthony Henry, sit out. But one concern with both rookies is their level of confidence. It’s bordering on “too high.” Jenkins loves to jump routes, and Scandrick is becoming an all-out tackler. If I’m Cowboys secondary coach Dave Campo, I spend Monday taking both rookies through the film, praising them and then scaring them with foreboding tales about giving up big plays.

After this game I heard Wade Phillips and several Cowboy players refer to the team’s upcoming bye week. One problem: Dallas’s bye is in Week 10. I don’t see any way the Cowboys go on the road and beat the Giants next week.

New Orleans Saints 37, San Diego Chargers 32
Are you like me? When watching this game, did you find yourself thinking, “I wonder if these Brits understand what’s going on.” The Brits had a lot of complicated football thrown at them in this one, including an onside kick and Drew Brees taking a bizarre safety in the closing seconds. (By the way, considering New Orleans was well past the 20-yard-line when they did that, and that it trimmed the lead from seven to five while still leaving eight seconds on the clock, you have to say that was one hell of a stupid decision by Sean Payton).

The Chargers lost, but the good news is they can still win the AFC West (thank you, overrated Denver), and LaDainian Tomlinson appears to be himself again.

Of course, San Diego has to stop somebody. And we’re discovering that without Shawne Merriman, that’s not something they can do.

If the Saints can get a few games above .500, you’ll start hearing Drew Brees’s name loudly in MVP discussions. The way he worked the ball around Sunday without the threat of Reggie Bush was extremely impressive.

Overall, I still don’t like sharing our game with the British. I think any European who attends an NFL game should first have to sign a document acknowledging that football is 1,000 times more complex and exciting than soccer.

Cleveland Browns 23, Jacksonville Jaguars 17
Two organizations badly needed this outcome: the Browns, and ESPN. From a television standpoint, thank God this darling team is still in it.

By the way, at 3-4, are the Jaguars still in it? What’s the deal with them?

Derek Anderson appears to be one of those players who performs well only when he has something to prove. Playing for his starting job again this past week, Anderson was mentally sharper, and thus, less predictable.

Cleveland’s best play call this season came in the second quarter on a fourth-and-one. Anderson play-actioned and rolled right before hitting a wide open Steve Heiden for a momentum-boosting 51-yard-gain.

By the way, speaking of Heiden….Kellen Winslow, didya see the veteran tight end’s solid performance? Didya see his blocking? You think maybe you might shape up now that, you know, it’s obvious this team does not need you?

Don’t drink the Matt Jones Kool-Aid. Yes, the guy had his first 100-yard game of what has been a fairly stellar season, but understand the bottom line with Jones: he’s an ultra-athletic former first-round pick who runs horrendous routes, wastes more motion than player in the game and shows less energy than a hungover Eeyore.

Shaun Rogers is playing like a man on fire right now.

Click here to read Snide Remarks from all Week 8 games

Saturday, October 25, 2008

BILL BELICHICK'S LATEST MIDDLE FINGER

There isn’t a more utilitarian gesture than the middle finger. If you’re a curmudgeon, the middle finger is your answer to every question you don’t like. Nobody illustrates this better than Bill Belichick.

For as long as he’s been a head coach in the NFL, Belichick has been raising his middle finger to every outsider who dare tries to gaze into his bubble. Opposing coaches shaking Belichick’s hand after beating him? Up goes the middle finger, as Belichick responds with a handshake icier than Lil Wayne’s wrist.

Opposing coaches trying to run out the clock when Belichick’s beating them? Ding – another raised finger, this one as Belichick protects a 28-point fourth quarter lead with a deep pass out of the shotgun on fourth down inside the red zone.

Or best of all, how about the suits at 280 Park Avenue who tell Belichick that he must wear official Patriots team apparel during games because, you know, it’s important that the league abide by the terms of its 10-year contract with Reebok and everything. Sure, the coach plays by the rules and wears the sweatshirt. But – here comes the middle finger – the rules say nothing about preserving the sleeves. So, he cuts them off. Factor in the mangy hair and the man in the raggedy sweatshirt looks terrible. Some might ask, Bill, why even pick such a petty fight? Bill’s answer? Another middle finger.

Reporters know what it’s like to have their questions answered with Belichick’s middle finger. It happens every time he has a press conference (i.e. all the time).

Sometimes the middle finger doesn’t work. Like when he would give it to management in Cleveland during his 36-44 five-year tenure. Or when he gave it to whoever sent out the memo from the Commissioner’s office last year telling coaches to stop filming opponents’ defensive signals during games.

But those are the only two viable examples of Belichick’s middle finger backfiring. Considering the man has three Super Bowl rings, simple logic says, overall, his middle finger strategy works.

This year, Belichick is giving perhaps his most intriguing middle finger yet.

He’s directing it to all the naysayers who are griping about the complex game plans that New England is heaping on backup-turned-starting quarterback Matt Cassel. The two-tight end and full house formations we thought we’d see from the Patriots after Tom Brady went down simply haven’t been there. Instead, the Pats have continued to spread the field and attack. They’re asking Cassel to work through his progressions and hit one of his four or five targets perfectly on every play – just like Tom did. To do this, a quarterback must have brilliant pocket presence and ingenious diagnostic abilities when surveying a defense. Oh – and a strong arm and pinpoint accuracy are also required. Tom always had all of these things; Matt sometimes has some of these things.

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Friday, October 24, 2008

The Guru Gridiron Report: Week 8 Bench/Start Defenses

Week 8 is the fictitious middle of the season week (17 totals weeks with the bye). Its a perfect point to not only gauge your team, but to figure out your chances of getting into the playoffs. If you are currently a long shot keep in mind that most teams still have a shot, so making the right moves now is critical in taking the necessary steps to getting a coveted playoff spot. Lots of players will be missing with the four teams on the BYE week; Minnesota Vikings, Denver Broncos, Chicago Bears, Green Bay Packers , so check out our picks for week 8 and use the to the best of yours and our abilities.

DEFENSES AND YOU MUST START
We really like New England to bring the St. Louis Rams back to earth in week 8. We think Miami will upset Buffalo this week and if they do they will need a big contribution from their defense. Jacksonville is a must start against Cleveland this week.

Others: Washington, Houston, Philadelphia

Other DEFENSES To Consider Starting With Some Risk
You have to like Baltimore and Oakland hammering it out to a 13-10 game. There won't be to of flash and bang for your buck, but they should put up solid points. Carolina will give up points and yards to Arizona, but they should get a few sacks, INT, and fumble recovery and could score a TD. We are apprehensive about Arizona this week. They have a great matchup, but have failed to impress on the road. We won't start them because we'd like to see 1 game on the road they do matchup well.

Others: New Orleans, Dallas, Tamp Bay, Buffalo, Tennessee, Indianapolis

Please Bench These DEFENSES

Cincinnati, Detroit , St. Louis, Kansas City, Pittsburgh, NY Giants, San Diego, Atlanta

Sleeper Defenses

A great sleeper defense this week is San Francisco against Seattle. They are at home and eager to impress new head coach Mike Singletary. The NY Jets are facing the Kansas City Chiefs without a QB or Larry Johnson and they are coming off a loss and at home. This is a great sleeper start.

The True Guru

The Guru Gridiron Report: Week 8 Bench/Start WRs & TEs

WIDE RECEIVERS YOU MUST START
We start with the standard guys Larry Fiztgerald and Andre Johnson. Fitzgerald will probably be without Boldin again and dominating as usual even on the road in Carolina and making the long trip. Johnson should have no problem catching passes against Cincinnati's secondary and should have a huge game at home. We really like Wes Welker this week and here's why. With 15-30 MPH winds expected Sunday, Cassel will keep most of the passes short and therefore lots of targets for Welker. Terrell Owens will get at least 2 TDs and over match the aging Tampa 2 defense. Steve Smith should have the most targets his this game against Arizona, start him. Marques Colston should be back and a force for New Orleans.

Others: Reggie Wayne, Terrell Owens, Lavernues Coles, , Randy Moss, Santana Moss, Roddy White, DeSean Jackson, Vincent Jackson

TIGHT ENDS YOU MUST START

Jason Witten, Antonio Gates, Chris Cooley, Anthony Fasano, Owen Daniels, John Carleson

Other Wide Receivers To Consider Starting With Some Risk
We really like Antonio Bryant, but we worry about how charged the Cowboys defense will be this week. He is an intriguing start against a defense that gets torched often. We say start him and take the chance. He could get 1-2 TDs and 130 yards at his best. Keep an eye on the weather in New England. Its hard to say bench Donnie Avery after how well he has developed with Bulger, but 15-30 MPH winds are tough. If its closer to 15, start him. Closer to 30, bench. So far it looks like Plaxico Burress isn't starting and he is in the coach's dog house. If he starts he plays hurt and probably does alright, but this is a week (weather as well) to maybe bench him. If you still own Patrick Crayton and Roy Williams should both have solid games and 1 one them will at least score. We are concerned about Bryant Johnson because of the emergence of Josh Morgan, but he's a good #3 WR this week against Seattle. We do like Santonio Holmes, Hines Ward, and Nate Washington. None can be called a must start, but all should get plenty of looks and 2/3 should have great games. Reggie Williams will look to take over for the suspended Matt Jones. Start him.

Others: Josh Morgan, Derrick Mason, Chansi Stuckey, Marvin Harrison, Kevin Walters, Antwaan Randle El, Greg Camarillo, Chad Johnson, T.J. Houshmandzadeh, Devery Henderson, Hank Basket

Other Tight Ends To Consider Starting With Some Risk

Donald Lee, Dustin Keller, Benjamin Watson, Billy Miller, Zach Miller

Please Bench These Wide Receivers
Bench Bobby Engram, until further notice. He will still get his share of plays, but he is no longer a fantasy value with other options out there. You have to bench Calvin Johnson against Washington. Amani Toomer has lost his skills. He can still catch the ball, but he cannot get open. Torry Holt will be useless this week, find someone else. Marvin Harrison is a no go this week. Justin Gage is again questionable, but he did practice. We would bench him until he plays 1 week.

Others: Robert Meachem, Michael Jenkins, Isaac Bruce, Ronald Curry, Javon Walker, Lance Moore, Kevin Curtis, Reggie Brown, Braylon Edwards Donte Stallworth, Dwayne Bowe, Miles Austin, Jerricho Cotchery

Please Bench These Tight Ends

Todd Heap, Alge Crumpler, Dante Rosario, Vernon Davis, Tony Scheffler (Out with injury), Kevin Boss, Kellen Winslow

Sleeper Wide Receivers
Javon Walker should have a solid game against the beat up Raven defense. He is a bit of a long shot, but the Ravens has nasty injuries in the secondary and are susceptible to the pass. Malcom Floyd will again fill in for Chris Chambers and will again have a good game against New Orleans in London. Anthony Gonzalez has a great matchup against Tennessee. Manning will go to him quick and often with the Titans pass rush. A deep deep sleeper would be Jerry Porter. He's Finally, Steve Smith of the NY Giants. He will have a big game if Burress doesn't play, but an equally good game if he does. He is the go to 3rd down, short pass guy for Manning and that is what he needs in the windy city of Pittsburgh.

Good luck. Next are our Defenses!

The True Guru

Thursday, October 23, 2008

The Guru Gridiron Report: Week 8 Bench/Start Runningbacks

RUNNINGBACKS YOU MUST START
Marion Barber will again be featured in the Dallas offense, but unlike the Rams, Tampa Bay will not score 31 unanswered points eliminating him. Great matchup for him. Frank Gore will absolutely slaughter Seattle. Steve Slaton will have another big game this time against Cincinnati. Start Thomas Jones. Anyone can run against Kansas City and Thomas Jones will have a huge day in New York.

Others: Ernest Graham, Clinton Portis, Jonathan Stewart, Brian Westbrook, Maurice Jones-Drew, LaDainian Tomlinson, Steven Jackson

Other Runningbacks To Consider Starting With Some Risk
Brandon Jacobs should have solid week against Pittsburgh, but temper your expectations. Willie Parker will be back this week, but we expect him to share some carries with Moore and his effectiveness will be minimal. You have to start him, but if you have better options sit him this week. Willis McGahee is back and has a great matchup this week against Oakland. We would make him a must start, but we still hold some concerns with McGahee. The 'R' brothers Ricky and Ronnie should get allot of carries against Buffalo and each should do some damage. We figure Ronnie Brown is good for at least 1 score, but Ricky Williams can run one in as well. It all depends if Buffalo can stop the Wildcat formation.

Others: Jamal Lewis, Kevin Faulk, DeAngelo Williams, Julius Jones, Ernest Graham, Marshawn Lynch, Michael Turner, Dominic Rhodes (Joseph Addai if he starts. We doubt he will)

Please Bench These Runningbacks
The Saints game in London will be a passing frenzy. Bench Duece McAllister and Pierre Thomas.

Others: Rudi Johnson, Kevin Smith, Chris Perry, Edgerrin James, Justin Fargas, Darren McFadden, Kolby Smith

Sleeper Runningbacks
This will be a good week to start Tim Hightower if you got him. If you are desperate consider starting BenJarvus Green-Ellis. Sammy Morris did not pratcie on Wendesday and if he doesn't play Green-Ellis would get the start and split carries with Faulk, but ge the majority.

Good luck. Next are our Wide Receivers and Tight Ends!

The True Guru

The Guru Gridiron Report: Week 8 Bench/Start Quarterbacks

QUARTERBACKS YOU MUST START
Kurt Warner isn't as good on the road and Carolina is a better defense at home. That being said, Arizona's offense still over matches Carolina and as long as Warner's offensive line can protect him he should have a huge day. Ben Roethlisberger and Eli Manning will get into a shootout in Pittsburgh. As long as the weather is good both these QBs will make those top quality defenses look shabby. Start both with no hesitation. Philip Rivers will comeback this week and have a big game against the man he replaced, so start him. Drew Brees has his old team in his house now, and will try to dominate them.

Others: David Garrard, Jason Campbell , Donovan McNabb, Matt Schaub, Brett Farve

Other Quarterbacks To Consider Starting With Some Risk
Peyton Manning should have a decent game on the road against Tennessee, nut Tennessee can put pressure on him and cause him problems. He's a guy you invested too much into so start him. Jake Delhomme should be playing catch up with Kurt Warner and Arizona. Their defense isn't nearly as good as it should be on the road, so he's a safe start his week. J.T. O'Sullivan gets a chance at Seattle's poor pass defense and he's at home! If he can't get the job done this week, look for Singletary to make the change to Shaun Hill. Matt Cassel looked great against the struggling Denver pass defense, but he won't look that good this week again. Still worth a start against the quickly improving St. Louis defense. We do not like Marc Bulger this week, but in a game where they will need to pass early and often we can't say bench him.

Others: , Trent Edwards, Matt Ryan, Derek Anderson, Jeff Garcia

Please Bench These Quarterbacks
I don't care the Dan Orlovsky threw a 96-yard TD pass to Calvin Johnson, bench him!

Others: Jon Kitna, Joe Flacco, Chad Pennington, Ryan Fitzpatrick, JaMarcus Russell, Kerry Collins, Seneca Wallace, Tony Romo (OUT)

Sleeper Quarterbacks
We have one sleepers for you. Brad Johnson looked pretty bad last week, but he has the first week jitters out of the way and he's in Dallas. Look for him to have a solid 2 TD game and 225 yards against Tampa Bay.

Good luck. Next are our Runningbacks!

The True Guru

Wednesday, October 22, 2008

Fighting Chance Fantasy's Start/Sit Week 8

Is it really Week 8 already? By now you should have a decent idea of who your team is. We are way past “off to a good start” or “struggling out of the gate.”

Quarterbacks

Start: Jake Delhomme, Carolina Panthers vs. Arizona Cardinals. Delhomme has been on a nice little roll lately, as he has two touchdown passes in three of his last four games. Put that together with the fact that he is playing an Arizona pass defense which isn’t horrible against the pass in terms of yards, but has allowed the most touchdown passes in the NFL. Look for Delhomme to continue his hot streak with 250 yards and another two touchdown game.

Start: Trent Edwards, Buffalo Bills vs. Miami Dolphins. Edwards will most likely never throw 30 touchdowns in a season, but he is very efficient as he has completed nearly 70 percent of his passes this season. The good thing about him is that he rarely throws up the 10/39 for 75 yards and 3 INT kind of game. You can always count on Edwards for between 175-225 yards and one or two touchdowns. The Dolphins are among the league’s worst against the pass, and you can expect more of the same from Edwards this week.

Sit: Matt Ryan, Atlanta Falcons vs. Philadelphia Eagles. The rookie has been impressive this week, but the Eagles will throw things at him that he has never seen. Expect pressure like he has never seen, and I am looking for a couple interceptions and probably a fumble. 175 yards and probably no touchdowns for Ryan this week, the Eagles and defensive coordinator Jim Johnson are notorious for confusing offenses.

Sit: Eli Manning, New York Giants vs. Pittsburgh Steelers. This has the feeling of a knock down, drag out, old time classic football game. Look for the majority of the offense to be take place on the ground, as these are two run-first offenses and on top of that the Steelers are a great pass defense ranked number one in the NFL at under 160 yards per game. Eli is a good QB, but this is not the week to start him.

Running Backs

Start: Chris Johnson/LenDale White, Tennessee Titans vs. Indianapolis Colts. After last week’s game against the Chiefs, do I really need to say too much more? The Titans ran for over 300 yards on the ground, and White scored three times and Johnson scored once. This week they go against another weak run offense as the Colts allow over 150 yards per game on the ground. Both Titans backs are good plays here in Week 8.

Start: Maurice Jones-Drew, Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Cleveland Browns. The Browns have allowed eight rushing touchdowns in six weeks, and Jones-Drew finally broke out of his season long slump right before the bye week. Look for him to top 100 yards and score once, or possibly twice against a weak Cleveland defense.

Sit: Michael Turner, Atlanta Falcons vs. Philadelphia Eagles. Turner has been great against bad defenses, and bad against good defenses. Problem for Turner and his owners, is that the Falcons face the Eagles this week, and they have only allowed three rushing touchdowns all season long. I don’t expect him to reach the 90 yards in the game that the Eagles average allowing per game. Try to find a better option this week than Turner.

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The Guru Gridiron Report: The True Guru Goes 4-2 again

Leagues: 6 (3 Yahoo!, 2 CBS Sportsline, 1 ESPN)

Total Record: 32-10

This was another brutal week for me. Things looked bad at the end of Sunday as I looked down the barrel at a 1-5 week. However, I had plenty of players still to go in the Monday night game and managed to pullout three tough matchups by narrow margins.
Here are my six matchups for week 7:

Coast 2 Coast League

Another tough week for me with a team that should dominate. Granted I haven't had Westbrook the past two weeks I still should be kicking butt. I had a 13 point lead going into Monday nights game with no players left and my opponent had Eddie Royal and Michael Pittman. I held for the 5 point win. The bright spot in this win was Chris Johnson who got me 27 points and in reality won this week for me. Without him I'd have lost my last undefeated team. This was a tough BYE week for me losing guys like Fitzgerald.

Football Dynasty VI

This was one of the games that I pulled out on Monday night. I went into Monday down by 16 points, but I had 2 defensive players and Michael Pittman, while my opponent only had 1 defensive player. As you can see by the number of points scored, a 12 point win is a knuckle scraper, but I pulled out one of the biggest wins of the season. I want to give shout outs to Nick Collins, Dominic Rhodes, and Matt Schaub.

J.A.I.L. League

This was the one game I had in the bag going into Monday. Dominic Rhodes scored big for me here with 25 points. The Bears defense had a huge game with 24 points and Steve Slaton came through with 15 points. Surf City Sharks made a valiant effort at a comeback Monday night with the Patriots defense and Gostkowski, but fell short by 32 points. I have a huge matchup in week 8 against a good friend and rival RC Rizza from Junkyard Jake.

Vegas Vs Texas League

This was a tough loss and the same guys that won if for me in the J.A.I.L. lost it for me in this league being Dominic Rhodes and the Bears defense. This was a tough matchup from the start missing Brain Westbrook and Larry Fitzgerald on the BYE week amongst others, but what made it real bad was Brett Farve's 14 point performance. We expected allot more out of him and Brandon Marshall and we did not get it. I have an even bigger matchup this week without Marshall against the LV Ravens. They are 6-1 and I already lost to them once this season.

NSP Experts League

Another game that went into Monday night and one I expected to lose. I had Kevin Faulk, Wes Welker, and Brandon Marshalll is this PPR league left. My opponent had Jay Culter, Matt Prater, and a 29 point lead. I ended up winning by 1 point on a last minute 16 yard run by Kevin Faulk who nearly got a TD. This was by far the most exciting game of the week and I have to give it up for Welker, Marshall, and Faulk who all played so well to pull out this big win. Overall it was a great week to put up a 112 points. To familiar names pop out in this league again, the Bears defense and Dominic Rhodes. Wow those two were good for allot of teams this week.

Fantasy Football Search Expert League Quit possibly the worse week I've had in the FFS Expert League. I got ran over by Junkyard Jake and this was a matchup that was over by the start of the second games on Sunday. Going into Monday I was down by a ton and I had Randy Moss and Michael Pittman. Both played well, but in the end it was a loss. I did play without Romo and Reggie Bush got knocked out for me in this matchup. I did make a terrible coaching call as well taking a chance on Kansas City's defense at home over the New England Patriots defense I had. Big mistake. Next week is a must win and I have to do it without Romo or Bush.

The True Guru Caught The Flu

I wish I had caught a pass, but I got the flu and was down Monday and Tuesday. However I'm feeling better and back at work. I will be skipping the weekly review and the expert league matchups due to time constraints, but we will go back to normal next week.

Thanks,
The True Guru

Sunday, October 19, 2008

Who Is The Better Fantasy Team, Most Points Or League Champion?

It is becoming one of the fantasy football debate of the ages. The question that was brought up to me a few weeks ago and really for several years now. That question is, overall at season's end is the best team in a league the team that put the most points or the league champion . Lets cover both arguments, but cover what makes a great fantasy team over a full season first.

Managers must make critical decisions from the draft to the championship game. These decisions can be easy, but most are difficult and many can be game breakers. Those decisions involve who to draft, when to draft them, and other draft related philosophies. Then during the season tough calls are made every week like who to start and who to pick up in free agency. Even who you have to cut is normally tricky. Add in trade decisions and being a fantasy football manager is a tough gig and winning a championship is even tougher over the span of a long season.

Now let's dive into each argument.

For most points theory, its an easy theory to argue. If by the end of the season you have the most points in the league, you are crowned the best overall team. The supporters of this theory say that you score the most points because of skilled drafting, free agent work, starting the right players, and making great trades. All correct and valid.

On the side of the championship team, it's a 16 week grueling marathon season that at the end you are the last man standing. Not only did you battle the H2H matchups with injuries and BYE weeks, but you managed well enough to win the championship. Obviously, if you win the title you drafted a good team and you were great in free agency.

I support a combination theory that the team with the championship ring and a whole lot of points ( but possibly not the most) is by far the best team in the league and here is why.

1. For those who support that most points defines you as the best overall team have to realize that injuries have a bigger impact on total points than they do a league champion. For example, a manager loses Brian Westbrook for 3 weeks and replaces him with Michael Pittman. We will say he loses a total of 35 points over the 3 weeks, but he still makes the playoffs and wins the championship. Injuries won't necessarily keep you from making the playoffs, but they will kill your point totals. No matter how good you are at free agency you cannot replace a Westbrook, Gore, Barber, or Fitzgerald. This argument alone defeats the theory that most points alone determine the league champion. a manager can win the championship, but because of injuries lose the points title by a narrow margin. Injuries have nothing to do with a fantasy team or a manger's decisions.

2. Some teams have great matchups throughout the season that add on points or have players that get lots of junk points. Normally when you have a team full of junk point players or great matchups all the time you are going to put up inflated points. From my point of view if you have great matchups consistently with many starters on your team and you win every so often 140-90, that really doesn't give you any further advantage towards a championship than winning 100-90. Don't get me wrong, each manager wants the most points possible (especially if most points is a tiebreaker), but if you live on big performances, you die on poor performances. Ronnie Brown might put up 5 TDs in a game giving you an explosion of points, but its only going to happen once in a season, and those go down as "freak" points.

3. Consistency is the key to winning fantasy football. Give me a consistent scoring team any week over a team that is inconsistent, but explosive. I'll take the 11-5 championship team that scores 100+ points every week over the team that finished 10-5 with the most points, but scored less than 100 points when it mattered.

In most leagues the points leader will also win the championship, so in those cases the point is mute. However, the guy who puts up the most points are not automatically crowned the leagues best team just because of that alone. It's ludicrous to think that with football in 2008 that points are anything else then a means to an end. Case in point, last year if you had Tom Brady as your QB, you were probably in the running for most points. That being said, allot of Brady owners were eliminated in the playoffs the week Brady faced 30+ MPH swirling winds. That is where a high scoring team loses. He had most points, but as soon as that team failed to put up the big numbers it lost and lost when it mattered the most. Last year I had the second best team in my money league and I faced the Tom Brady/LT-powered top team in the league and beat him to go to the league championship during that windy week. He finished with most points nipping me by less than 100 points in a league where we scored over 2200 points. I went on to win the championship. We had the debate who had the better team. I said all season his team was a one man team with Brady. Compared to mine, if you exchange that one player I easily beat your team nearly every week and in total points for that matter. During week 15 in 2007 that happened and I crushed him. The point there is just because you have most points doesn't mean you'll win every week or that you have the best team. It just means you scored the most points. Its a great feat to accomplish, but cannot be the definition of the league's best team. Let's be honest, most point leaders do have that freak player like Faulk, Manning, Brady, or Terrel Davis that's gives than the "freak" points for most points and nothing else.

The league's best team is clearly the league champion with strong point totals, and that is final. Those who think differently are guys who choked late in the season or in the playoffs and because of their league high point totals hang onto the thought that they are still the best and everyone else is second fiddle. I don't think they would say that if they won the championship, but not most points.

Todd "The True Guru" Farino

Friday, October 17, 2008

The Guru Gridiron Report: Week 7 Bench/Start Defenses

Week 7 is upon us and with some critical players on the BYE week managers will have to make some tough decisions in order to squeak out a win. Jacksonville Jaguars, Atlanta Falcons, Philadelphia Eagles, and Arizona Cardinals are all on the BYE. All positions except TE are taking a hit, but the most affected is runningback. There are also injuries to account for like Romo, Felix Jones, Kellen Winslow, Joseph Addai and Matt Hasselbeck to name a few. So with a rough week ahead of us, here are our week 7 picks:

DEFENSES AND YOU MUST START
Dallas should have a great week on the road against a Rams team they are build to beat. It is important that they get healthy and that Newman is back starting at CB. Chicago Bears and Minnesota have a great defensive matchup in store for us. Minnesota will be touch and go, but Chicago should have a big day and we have a feeling Hester will take one to the house. Tennessee should have its way with a Larry Johnson-less Kansas City Chiefs. Finally, Tampa Bay has to deal with Seneca Wallace and Seattle at home. A must start.

Others: Pittsburgh, NY Giants

Other DEFENSES To Consider Starting With Some Risk
The New York Jets could have a big game against the Raiders, so we think you should start them if you are in a hole. Maimi is another team on the rise defensively and face the Ravens and mastermind Joe Flacco. Miami should easily dominate this game at home. The Baltimore Ravens are a bit over matched by the Miami run game, but should keep the score down and could force some turnovers and maybe a TD. Buffalo is at home against the Chargers who travel across the continent for this matchup. As we know from past experience that is always a disadvantage for the traveling team. Start the Buffalo Bills with the hope they can contain the well travelled Philip Rivers and Co.

Others: San Diego, Washington, New Orleans, Denver, New England

Please Bench These DEFENSES

Cincinnati, Detroit, Oakland, San Francisco, St. Louis, Green Bay, Kansas City

Sleeper Defenses

We love the Houston Texans against the miserable Detroit Lions. They have a young inexperienced QB in Dan Orlovsky and are now without the services of Roy Williams. They are a team in decline. Start the Texans. Seattle could show some life this week against division rival Tampa Bay. Its a longshot, but we think they matchup well and if Seattle can execute it could be a long day for Jeff Garcia.

The True Guru

Thursday, October 16, 2008

The Guru Gridiron Report: Week 7 Bench/Start WRs & TEs

WIDE RECEIVERS YOU MUST START
With Chris Chambers hurting look for Vincent Jackson to get the bulk of WR pass targets against Buffalo, start him. Andre Johnson has been big lately and that will not stop against Detroit. We really like Devin Hester this week against Minnesota. He could score in multiple ways this week. Steve Smith can light up New Orleans if Delhomme can get him the ball. We think they are good for at least one long hookup i this game. We also like Randy Moss and Wes Welker (PPR Leagues mainly) on Monday night against the Denver Broncos. That game will be a shootout and New England looks get back twinning in front of its home crowd. Another pair that should have a big day is Hines Ward and Santonio Holmes. Big Ben will throw often against Cincy, so start them. Lee Evans will be all over the field against the Chargers and should have a very nice game. Finally,

Others: Reggie Wayne, Terrell Owens, Greg Jennings, Lavernues Coles, , Randy Moss, Plaxico Burress, Braylon Edwards, Brandon Marshall

TIGHT ENDS YOU MUST START

Jason Witten, Antonio Gates, Chris Cooley, Visanthe Shiancoe, Anthony Fasano, Owen Daniels, Greg Olsen

Other Wide Receivers To Consider Starting With Some Risk
We can no longer freely say start T.J. Houshmandzadeh, but you have too. That is the simple facts of fantasy football. The Bengals are a mess and Fitzpatrick is not Palmer. Roy Williams is now a Cowboy and looks to get into the action quickly. He will get in on some plays, but don't expect too much from him in his first game. He is a big risk this week, but he can easily catch a TD against the 31 ranked Rams defense. Justin Gage is a magician with a great disappearing act, but he's a solid start against Kansas City this week. On the other side, Dwayne Bowe is not. Its hard to say bench him, but he has tremendous risk this week. We like Donnie Avery against Dallas. They will be playing from behind most of the game, so he should catch some passes and a possible TD. Finally, we like Ike Hillard to catch 5 passes and a TD against Seattle.

Others: Amani Toomer, Bryant Johnson , Muhsin Muhammad, Brandon Stokley, Donald Driver, Sinorice Moss, Miles Austin, Jerricho Cotchery, Bobby Engram, Derrick Mason, Chansi Stuckey, Marvin Harrison, Rashied Davis, Kevin Walters, Santana Moss, Antwaan Randle El

Other Tight Ends To Consider Starting With Some Risk

John Carleson, Donald Lee, Dustin Keller, Daniel Graham, Benjamin Watson, Billy Miller, Zach Miller

Please Bench These Wide Receivers
Patrick Crayton was effectively replaced this week. He will still get his share of plays, but he is no longer a fantasy value with other options out there. Bobby Wade will have a hard time against the Chicago Bears, bench him. Finally, bench Calvin Johnson. He's hurt, has a new QB, and is playing a hungry defense. Its not adding up for him, plus he has no protection on the otherside.

Others: David Patten, Isaac Bruce, Joey Galloway, Dane Looker, DJ Hackett, Ronald Curry, Chris Chambers (Doubtful), Javon Walker, Chad Johnson, Greg Camarillo

Please Bench These Tight Ends

Todd Heap, Alge Crumpler, Dante Rosario, Vernon Davis, Tony Scheffler (Out with injury), Kevin Boss, Kellen Winslow

Sleeper Wide Receivers
Torry Holt won't do much this year, but his speed can expose the Cowboys pass defense and he could score 1-2 TDs this week. Its a deep call, but a good one. Dante Stallworth is healthy and playing an old rival in the Redskins. Especially if Winslow doesn't play he is a great start for Cleveland. Then there is Eddie Royal. He hasn't done much and many may not start him with the ankel injury. Check his status. He should play and if he does we think he will have a huge game on Monday night. Watch for Shaun McDonald to make a quiet impact for Detroit. He may not score, but he can catch allot of balls for PPR leagues.

Good luck. Next are our Defenses!

The True Guru

Shaun Alexander Signs with The Washington Redskins

From Yahoo! Sports

RB Shaun Alexander, who signed with Washington on Tuesday, isn't exactly in unfamiliar territory. Alexander has the same position coach -- Stump Mitchell -- he had throughout his eight-year tenure in Seattle. Head coach Jim Zorn was a Seahawks assistant the past seven seasons. Alexander was a classmate of left tackle Chris Samuels and defensive tackle Cornelius Griffin at Alabama, a teammate of cornerback Shawn Springs in Seattle and of running back Clinton Portis at the 2003 Pro Bowl. “This is an exciting time for me," said Alexander, who signed with Washington on Tuesday to replace the injured Ladell Betts as a backup to NFL rushing leader Clinton Portis. "I just like the atmosphere. They're winners already. To be a part of that is a good thing. It being coach Zorn and Stump being here, I already knew they worked well together. Clinton and I played together in the Pro Bowl. Chris Samuels and Cornelius (Griffin), we graduated from Alabama together. It just fits and I'm really excited." So are the Redskins. "He's a tremendous back," Zorn said. "He has uncanny acceleration. He can glance off of guys. He's a bigger load than a lot of people think. His cuts are immediate and they have the same kind of speed. You could see that out there today."

True Guru Analysis: This is good news for fantasy football. Alexander has a chance, albeit a small one, but a chance to reestablish himself in the NFL. Portis is the clear starter in Washington, but the Redskins will use Alexander for 10-12 plays a game. Don't look for that in game 1, but by game 3 he should be fully induced into the offense replacing the injured Ladell Betts. Take a flyer on him if you have a roster spot, but other than that just scout him for now.

The Guru Gridiron Report: Week 7 Bench/Start Runningbacks

RUNNINGBACKS YOU MUST START
We think that Jonathan Stewart and DeAngelo Williams can have big games against New Orleans, so start 1 of them. We are leaning towards Stewart, but both will play a big role in this game if it goes Carolina's way. Chris Johnson is primed for a huge game against KC, so start him. Brandon Jacobs should find plenty of running room against San Francisco's defense, a must start. Look for Steve Slaton to be the featured back against Detroit and to pound them all game. Finally, Marshawn Lynch will have a big game against San Diego as the Bills will try and control the clock.

Others: Frank Gore, Ronnie Brown, Ernest Graham, Michael Pittman, Clinton Portis, Reggie Bush, Marion Barber, Thomas Jones

Other Runningbacks To Consider Starting With Some Risk
You have to start LaDainian Tomlinson, but it isn't the best matchup for him and his injured toe. He is running well right now, but temper expectations. Dominic Rhodes is back starting for Indianapolis and he should have a solid game against the Packers, so start him with confidence. Darren McFadden should get on the field and dance around the Jets defense, but like always with Raider players there is risk. If you need help at RB, start Sammy Morris. He should be good for 40 yards and at least 1 TD. Finally Steven Jackson will be very active against Dallas. He probably won't get much on the ground, but he will catch passes in the backfield and in a PPR league that is points. A touchdown is very possible as well.

Others: Jamal Lewis, Kevin Faulk, Ryan Grant, Adrian Peterson, Le'Ron McClain

Please Bench These Runningbacks
Bench Matt Forte. The Minnesota run defense is just too much for any runningback. We are sorry, but Larry Johnson has been suspended and we don't think Kolby Smith will do much against the Titans. This doesn't have anything to do with the 2 yard performance, its just the Titans will play their defense to him.

Others: Rudi Johnson, Kevin Smith, Willie Parker, Chris Perry, Ricky Williams, Julius Jones

Sleeper Runningbacks
We like Mewelde Moore this week playing for the injured Willie Parker against Cincinnati. With Big Ben hurting and going against a defense that is hammered by the run, look for Moore to grind out 110 yards and 1 TD. Its a great start for him. LenDale White is another sleeper. He won't get too many yards, maybe 50, but 2 TDs is very possible. After the tough loss the Giants look to pound the 49ers. Derrick Ward should see extensive action and could rack up 80 yards and a TD.

Good luck. Next are our Wide Receivers and Tight Ends!

The True Guru

The Guru Gridiron Report: Week 7 Bench/Start Quarterbacks

QUARTERBACKS YOU MUST START
Drew Brees is a lock this week. He is on the road at Carolina. The Saints simply overpower and out match the Panthers defense. Another road start goes to Matt Schaub against Detroit. They looked good against Minnesota, but that was Minnesota. Even with a sore shoulder, Ben Roethlisberger is a must start in Cincinnati. He won't produce massive numbers, but 2 TDs and 285 yards should be a lock. Finally Brett Farve looks to have a big game. Oakland can't stop the run and that will open the vertical game. 3 TDs is not out of the question for Farve.

Others: Jason Campbell, Eli Manning, Jay Cutler, Peyton Manning

Other Quarterbacks To Consider Starting With Some Risk
Philip Rivers should have a solid game, but he's on the road against a rested Buffalo defense. You have to start him, but cross your fingers. Another risky, but good start is Derek Anderson. Fresh off of pounding the NY Giants defense, he will go on the road to Washington. If his O-line gives him the time he can put up a couple of TDs in a tough loss. Garbage points should also be there. Jeff Garcia is at home and playing the helpless Seahawks. The only risk is how much he will throw, but not a bad start. This is a week that Jake Delhomme can put up big numbers, but he is a risk after last week's performance. We say start him. He's at home and he'll be in a shootout with Brees. Even better is that we think he'll get plenty of garbage points.Finally, Aaron Rodgers. No Bob Sanders and the ball will fly with the run game opening up. one note on Trent Edwards. We like him this week, but consider his concussion 2 weeks ago if you decide to start him.

Others: , J.T. O'Sullivan, Kerry Collins, Kyle Orton (No Joke)

Please Bench These Quarterbacks
There are several Quarterbacks to bench starting with Marc Bulger. Dallas will come after him all day and dominate his offensive line. Gus Frerotte is not worth starting in Chicago and leave Seneca Wallace in free agency this week. Dan Orlovsky will make another start for the Lions. This is the guy who ran out of bounds away from a defender.

Others: Jon Kitna, Joe Flacco, Chad Pennington, JaMarcus Russell

Sleeper Quarterbacks
We have two sleepers for you. The first is an obvious one in Brad Johnson. He now has Roy Williams and should have no problem filling in for Romo against the pitiful Rams and I don't care that they handled Washington last week at home. Look for 1-2 TDs and 250 yards. We really like Matt Cassel against Denver on Monday night. He is at home and will be passing all day. If New England can't keep up consider the garbage points he will get.

Good luck. Next are our Runningbacks!

The True Guru

Wednesday, October 15, 2008

Fighting Chance Fantasy's Start/Sit Week 7

Quarterbacks

Start: Aaron Rodgers, Green Bay Packers vs. Indianapolis Colts. This might be misleading because the Colts defense has actually been great against the pass, and has only allowed one touchdown through the air all season long. But two things make me think that Rodgers is a good play this week. One, here are the teams the Colts have played so far: Chicago, Minnesota, Jacksonville, Houston, and Baltimore. Is there an actual decent NFL quarterback on any of those teams? Besides Andre Johnson can you name a receiver on these teams? Maybe a couple, but the Colts have been playing teams that can’t throw, so I don’t think it is necessarily a product of their defense that they have done so well. And Rodgers and the Pack’s attack rank 7th in the league passing the ball, and I think that he will have another quality game this week.

Start: Matt Schaub, Houston Texans vs. Detroit Lions. I hate to pick on the Lions all the time, but they are in such disarray that it is hard not to pick them somewhere in this article. Schaub hasn’t exactly been Joe Montana, but he’s been pretty decent lately, and now gets the third worst pass defense in football who nearly averages giving up two passing scores a game. Andre Johnson has re-established himself as a stud in this league, and Schaub should be able to find him once, and perhaps Owen Daniels or Kevin Walter with another.

Sit: Philip Rivers, San Diego Chargers vs. Buffalo Bills. Now I’m really crazy! Sit Rivers? Well, it is possible that he might have an off game this week. The Bills have been really tough against the pass, allowing just under 185 yards per game and only four touchdowns in five games. Plus, they are coming off their bye, so they have had two weeks to prepare for this game. Now, I’m not saying start David Garrard over Rivers, but if you have a similar or close to it option at QB, give it serious thought, or don’t be surprised if Rivers doesn’t have a huge game this weekend.

Sit: J.T. O’Sullivan, San Francisco 49ers vs. New York Giants. After getting everyone excited that San Francisco had finally found themselves their next quarterback, O’Sullivan has certainly come back to reality. He has thrown for under 200 yards in three of the last four weeks and has seven interceptions over that time. The Giants defense will be pissed off after being slapped around by the lowly Browns, and expect them to be all up in O’Sullivan’s grill all game long. He will throw for no more than 225 yards and probably have more interceptions than touchdown passes.

Running Backs

Start: Chris Johnson, Tennessee Titans vs. Kansas City Chiefs. Chiefs defense, meet the stud rookie running back. Stud rookie running back, meet the worst run defense in the NFL. The Titans are coming off a bye, which means they should be well rested and ready to run the ball right down Kansas City’s throats. Look for Johnson to approach 100 yards and his fourth rushing touchdown of the season as the Titans improve to 6-0 with six of the ugliest wins in the history of football. But there’s no style points here, wins is all that matter.

Click here for the rest!

A Fantasy Friend In Need

With all of the interaction that I have with my readers, I have heard plenty of stories about their fantasy experiences. Usually, they are funny and/or light hearted. Unfortunately, recently I heard of a story of a fellow hardcore fantasy player that was tragic and sad.

I invite you to check out this link: http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/rdreid. This is the story R.D. Reid, a 28 year old family man who was trying to do the best for his wife and daughter, and even planned to start his own church.

To read the tragic and inspirational story of RD Reid, please visit the rest of this article on Fighting Chance Fantasy here.

Tuesday, October 14, 2008

The Guru Gridiron Report: Expert League Week 6 Games

2008 Fantasy Football Search Expert League

We truly did see this coming. Mike Bowser from Xtreme Fantasy Football knocked out co-host and good buddy AJ Pelletier with a devastating hook in week 6. The 83 point win was huge and carried XFF to a 6-0 record in the expert league. Next for the greatest show on Internet turf, Mock Draft Central.

This was the closest game of the week and Scout Fantasy Football pulled out the nail biter by less then 6 points. The game ball for SFF has to go to Plaxico Burress who pulled out the win on Monday night. Santana Moss let Johnny Archive down for a second straight week.

Owners Box Sports failed to comeback after a tough first loss of the season last week and has now dropped two games in a row. He fell to the surging Big Game Fantasy Sports Patrick Welsh who has now won 3 games in a row and is clearly one of the hottest teams in the league. Both teams played very well, but Welsh got a huge win and pulled himself back into playoff contention after starting 0-3.

Mock Draft Central tried to get back on the winning track in a battle of 2-3 teams, but fell flat near the end as Pro Fantasy Games exploded for points 41 points on Monday night to pull out the minor upset with Braylon Edwards and Steve Heiden. This was a fun game to watch between to tough competitors. This time it went to Pro Fantasy Games.

Fantasy Football Search continued his surge getting a second dominating win over a tough opponent. Fantasy Sports Zone put up a heel of a fight and a late surge with Philip Rivers, but it wasn't enough to stop Tony Romo, Plaxico Burress, and The True Guru's band of misfits. This win put FFS into a tie for first place in the West division and the loss has set FSZ into a tough hole to dig out of at 1-5.

The decline of Fantasy Football Starters continues with a third straight loss. This was a huge win for Fighting Chance Fantasy who is now at 2-4 and still in the playoff hunt. A fifth loss may have been too much to come back from. FFS is looking for answers to three straight losses after a 3-0 start in the expert league. Hopefully he will find it in week 7.

After a tough loss last week for both teams, Junkyard Jake got back on a winning plane with a huge win over the hapless NoOffseason.com team, who managed only 45 points in the blowout loss. This win put Junkyard Jake in second place in the East division, now tied with the sagging Owners Box Sports team. Paul Hickey form noOffseason.com will look to rebound from two straight hard losses next week.

Week 7 Match Ups:
Fantasy Football Starters (3-3) Vs Johnny Archive (2-4)
A great matchup as both teams need a win badly and one will get that badly need win.

Junkyard Jake (4-2) Vs Fantasy Football Search (4-2)
Battle of two good friends and old foes as RC takes on his nemesis Todd "The True Guru" Farino. Both teams are having great season and both are looking for a 5th win.

Big Game Fantasy Sports (3-3) Vs. Fantasy Sports Zone (1-5)
Patrick Welsh looks to trump his 4th win in a row on the fading FSZ team. Rhett looks to get back to winning and make a last ditch effort towards a playoff run.

Pro Fantasy Games (3-3) Vs. Nooffseason.com (2-4)
Pro Fantasy Games is hot and looks to continue his hot streak against a cold NoOffseason.com team. Paul has different things in mind, like getting a win and looking at 3-4.

Xtreme Fantasy Football (6-0) Vs Mock Draft Central (2-4)
All eyes are on Mike Bowser as he remains undefeated and goes for his 7th straight win against Geoff Stein a tough and gritty competitor. Look for this one to be much closer than Mike would like and even an upset could occur.

Owners Box Sports (4-2) Vs Scout Fantasy Football (4-2)
Two 4-2 teams square off. SFF is coming off a big win and Owners Box Sports have dropped two in a row. This is the MATCH UP OF THE WEEK.

Fighting Chance Fantasy (2-4) Vs. NFL Fantasy Playbook (1-5)
Fighting Chance Fantasy got a much needed win and now he gets just what the doctor ordered, a 1-5 NFL Fantasy Playbook. This team has one upset under his belt, can he get another?

The Guru Gridiron Report: The True Guru Gets Big Wins 4-2

Leagues: 6 (3 Yahoo!, 2 CBS Sportsline, 1 ESPN)

Total Record: 28-8

Matchup wise this was one of my toughest week so far. It had everything you could ask for. Bad coaching decisions, races down to the wire, blowouts, and big wins with tough losses. I entered week 6 undefeated in 3 leagues and I leave week 6 undefeated in 1 league. Both my losses this week were my first in those respective leagues, but that's what made the wins I had so big. In my big money league I pulled out a tough win and in the two expert league I managed big wins as well. Lets check it all out.

Here are my six matchups for week 5:

Coast 2 Coast League

I got lucky this week and faced off against the last place winless The Lost Boys and man are they lost. They had a big chance to upset the undefeated Cowboys, who had their second worst performance of the season. Yet, the defending champions prevailed by 36 points. The big players in this weeks game were Kurt Warner, Larry Fitzgerald , Reggie Wayne, and Frank Gore. Those for alone scored roughly 62 points enough for the win. My other 5 players totaled 21.4. Next week will be much tougher has I face the second place 5-1 team and I have several players on the BYE week including my Cardinals and Brian Westbrook.

Football Dynasty VI I was handed my first loss this week in the Dynasty league and it wasn't even close. I held onto a late lead, but by Sunday night I was down and done. He still had Braylon Edwards. Greg Jennings, Tony Romo, and Reggie Bush had huge games for me, but I couldn't fight off even bigger games from BRaylon Edwards, Drew Brees, and Larry Fitzgerald. He really won this matchup in the defensive players where my defensive guys never showed up, and his had huge days. My biggest disappointments this week were Robert Meachem getting me zero points, Dustin Keller nearly nothing, and Michael Turner only netting my 7.4 points. It was a bad week, but I have to dust it off as I take on the commissioner next week in another brutal showdown.

J.A.I.L. LeagueAnother league that I lost my first game in. This league run by my friend Johnny Archive has been intense and I've managed to perform the best overall. There were two of 14 teams left undefeated going into week 6. Now there are none. What really cost me this week were my 2 runningbacks who combined for 6 points. My Bears defense didn't help much either with only 4 points, but Jonathan Stewart and Steve Slaton were just bad. I did have some points on the bench with Rhodes and Derrick Ward, and my Cardinals defense, but in the end poor managing cost me this one.

Vegas Vs Texas League

This was my best game of the week. Not only did I score the high score for the week netting me $15, but I did it against a division rival who beat me in week 1. Marion Barber was the story here as he pushed with over 30 points. Andre Johnson got back in my starting lineup and also put up 30+ points and even my kicker Josh Brown had a huge game. This one was close until mid way through the afternoon games and it was over after that. This was a big win as the Vegas division leader lost, so I picked up a game. I'm 1 game out for the division lead.

NSP Experts League

This game went down to the wire and I have to thank Wes Welker for the win. He got some mop up catches that pulled me ahead late in this matchup, but Ryan still had his vaunted NY Giants defense left on Monday night and I was done, but had a 5 point lead. Defenses don't carry much punch in this league, so I had a good chance and the Giants defense did nothing. In the end I pulled out a 6 point win. My receiving core came up big for me as Brandon Marshall, DeSean Jackson, and Wes Welker all provided big points in this PPR league. Antonio Gates added a TD as well. I poorly coached this team taking chances like benching Brees for Farve and Pittman for Felix Jones. I would have crushed FCF if I had started my normal 9.

Fantasy Football Search Expert League This was a big win. First I beat a good friend and rival Rhett Oldham, but even better I took over 1st place in the West division with a 4-2 record. My team has had two huge games over the past two weeks and this week I took home high score. This matchup was over as it started. Big days from Tony Romo, Reggie Bush, and Thomas Jones led the way to a big victory. Even a BYE week start for Steve Breaston helped big with nearly 18 points. FSZ did mount a comeback with Philip Rivers, but in the end the deficit was too large to overcome. This was a much needed win in the expert league.

Fantasy Football Search Introduces its Fantasy Value Rating System (FVR)

Fantasy Football Search and its leading analyst The True Guru have always had a secret formula for rating fantasy football players. Until now we have not shared it with the public, but we are now ready to introduce it. The formula is base on 11 herbs and spices, wait! Sorry, just had lunch. The formula is based on several factors that effect the players fantasy value such as health, stats, playing level, schedule, team, skills, etc... With those we develop a rating from 1 to 10 on the players value. 1 be terrible and 10 being an absolute stud. Here is a breakdown of the system:

1 - 2.5 CUT THE PLAYER

2.6 - 5.5 - Bench or cut depending on needs, free agency, etc..

4.0 - 5.5 - Sell the player if their is a buyer and get what you can. Players at this level normally don't come back and aren't worth keeping if someone else is willing to take them.

5.6 - 7.4 - Only start the player as a BYE week fill in or if he is in the higher scale, start him if he has a great matchup. These are the 3rd tier position/flex players.

5.6 - 6.5 - If a player is in this range you don't have to trade him, but it's wise to shop him and see if anyone is biting. Especially if he's been downgraded allot.

4.0-6.5 - TRADE THE PLAYER. Depending on which end he is on depends the value of the deal. Players on the higher end you may want to acquire.

7.6-8.5 - Average start. These are the players that are a bit inconsistent, but still are worth starting and can put up points. Basically, guys you have to start, but sometimes you wish you had better options. Players on this scale are also ones that you may want to acquire as their value is low enough to get a good deal, but high enough to make an impact. Of course that rule applies to individual players, depending on their situations.

8.6-9.4 - MUST STARTS.

9.5 - 10 - ABSOLUTE STUDS. Maximum value players.

We will start including our Fantasy Value Rating (FVR) in our weekly review posts for the week. For the past couple of weeks we've been letting you know whether a player is UPGRADED or DOWNGRADED. Now that will be followed by their FVR (i.e. 8.5).

If you have any questions or you would like to know a players FVR email us at info@fantasyfootballsearch.com and we will answer your questions.

The Guru Gridiron Report: Week 6 Review & Recap

Week 6 was a strange week, especially for quarterbacks. Many that we expected to do well didn't do much and those that we had little expectations for rose to the occasion. We have to say our call of the week was sleeper Derek Anderson. Not only did we call him a sleeper start, but we also said that the Browns could upset the Giants this week and they did. He threw two TDs and over 300 yards while beating the defending Superbowl champion NY Giants. Lets review some of these weeks performances, QB and all. There are lots of surprises to uncover:

Quarterbacks

Jay Cutler - EVEN FVR: 9.2

Cutler failed to break 200 yards passing, but did get 2 TDs. He's been coming own off his opening highes, but he is still one of the best.

Derek Anderson UPGRADED FVR: 7.75

Anderson had a huge game and made big strides into getting back to his status has a top tier quarterback. He's not a must start every yet, but in week 6 he took a big step in the right direction.

Gus Frerotte DOWNGRADED FVR: 7.0

He threw a TD and had one big play in this game to Berrian. He is at best a desperation BYE week start.

Philip Rivers UPGRADED FVR: 9.0

Last week we said look to aquire Philip Rivers and he did not dissappoint with 306 yards and 3 TDs. He definitely is a player on the rise.

Tony Romo DOWNGRADED FVR: 8.9

Tony had a great game, but he broke his pinky and will miss at least 3 games. That kills some of his FVR just because he's missing 3 games. Still, keep him. When he comes back he should be better with some rest both physical and mental.

Aaron Rodgers UPGRADED FVR: 8.8

Nice come back game and looks to be getting healthy and back to being a great start.

Jake Delhomme DOWNGRADED FVR: 8.1

Delhomme is the definition of inconsistent and we just don't like inconsistent players. He has the talent around him to score, but when you throw a solid defense in front of him he tends to crumble.

Drew Brees UPGRADED FVR: 9.6

He is without his top recevier and TE, yet he has Reggie Bush. Three more TDs this week. Absolute stud.

Donovan McNabb UPGRADED FVR: 8.5

Very inconsistent, but had is good game. If we go by the number his next game should be good, then three bad games in a row. We will see.

J.T. O'Sullivan DOWNGRADED FVR: 8.1

Philly is a tough defense and this game is unfair to put on O'Sullivan seeing as thy had a lead and played conservative till Philly took off. Expect mroe from J.T.

Matt Schaub UPGRADED FVR: 8.4

After being sick last week, Schaub came back and threw for 379 yards and a TD. He did offer up 2 INTs, but he looked like the Schaub of old and he hooked up with Andre Johnson and that is sweet fantasy music to my ears.

Carson Palmer DOWNGRADED FVR: 6.5 LOOK TO TRADE

Injured and on a bad team. If anyone is willing to take this guy offer him up. There are better QBs in free agency. He does have the taent to come back, but we don't see it for 2008.

Jason Campbell DOWNGRADED FVR: 8.0

Needs to start stringing good games together. Until then he is not a must start.

Matt Cassel DOWNGRADED FVR: 7.1 LOOK TO TRADE

He's worse than the stock market. No TDs and an INT against Sand Deigo is a big game. Look to unload him.

Kurt Warner UPGRADED FVR: 9.3

Played in a tough game and did very well. He has great weapons and will be getting Boldin ack next week.

Matt Hasselbeck - DOWNGRADED FVR: 7.2 LOOK TO TRADE

Matt hasn't been playing well and he's injured. The prospects aren't good for him and I'd look to move him ASAP.

Brett Farve - EVEN FVR: 8.8

We still like Farve, but he didn't ave the greatest game fantasy wise. Football wise, great game, but Thomas Jones did the scoring here. He'll get you points next week.

David Garrard UPGRADED FVR: 7.2

We were very high on Garrard in the preseason and so far he has not lived up to it. However, in week 6 he did start his comeback to greatest with 276 yards and a TD.

Runningbacks

Marion Barber UPGRADED FVR: 9.7

He had a huge game and with Romo going down they will lean on him even more.

Steve Slaton EVEN FVR: 8.7

He had an off game, but we will not downgrade him for it. Everyone has a game like that. We will see how he repsonse next week.

Reggie Bush UPGRADED FVR: 9.7

Another great day for Bush. He caught a TD and ran one in. He has developed into the ultimate weapon for fantasy managers.

Tim Hightower EVEN FVR: 8.1 LOOK TO ACQUIRE

The guy has 5 TDs in 5 games. He's a must own back getting 8-10 touches a game.

Ronnie Brown - UPGRADED FVR: 8.8

Brown has looked great so far, but this is the time to trade him. He's still splitting time with Ricky Williams and we think he won't get much better.

Matt Forte UPGRADED FVR: 8.8

Still a bit inconsistent, but a great rookie pikup. He is thriving in the Bears offense and had a great week 6 with 115 total yards and a TD.

Michael Turner DOWNGRADED FVR: 8.8
Turner is one of the top runners in the league, but lacks consistency Great game, good game, bad game, etc.. He's a must start, but he has to get consistent.

Ryan Grant DOWNGRADED FVR: 7.1 LOOK TO TRADE

We are downgrading him again because he just can't fine the end zone. Forget the 90 yards. Grant was draft high for TD and yards, and he has yet to score this season.

Thomas Jones UPGRADED FVR: 8.3

Jones had the game we've all been waiting for him to have. He is a versitile runningback and as long as Farve and the Jets use him as that he will put up fantasy value.

Jonathon Stewart DOWNGRADED FVR: 6.9
Bad week and splitting carries. Stewart is primed for an upgrade, but right now he falling and faling fast.

Kevin Faulk UPGRADED FVR: 8.4

With everyone hurt in New England and only Morris to compete with, Faulk is making the most of his opprotunities. He's almost a must start because of his versitility.

Chris Perry DOWNGRADED FVR: 7.0 LOOK TO TRADE

How bad are things for Chris when Cedric Benson was signed to ehlp out the running game. Unloasd him if you can.

Wide Receiver

Terrell Owens DOWNGRADED FVR: 9.3
Teams are double covering him and he's not getting the ball as much. Dallas needs to open up the offense and force teams to respect Witten and Crayton more to help Owens. With the lost of Romo for 3 weeks he's lost his stud status, but should regain it.

Miles Austin UPGRADED FVR: 7.9
Another touchdown or Austin this week. He doesn't get many looks, but he does score. Great BYE week fill in if you need it.

Robert Meacham DOWNGRADED FVR: 6.4
I found Robert on the back of a milk carton. What has happened to this guy?

Kevin Walters DOWNGRADED FVR: 8.0
Had a solid game, but with the emergence of Andre Johnson his value will go down.

Jerricho Cotchery EVEN FVR: 8.7

He got 8 catches for 85 yards, but no TDs. Again, this was a different week for the Jets as they used their running attack to score. Cotchery is still a must start.

Plaxico Buress UPGRADED 9.4

After being suspended, he came back and had a solid week for the Giants, who had a bad week.

Andre Johnson UPGRADED 9.0
Another huge game and he's coming back. He should continue to climb.

Torry Holt DOWNGRADED 6.0 LOOK TO TRADE

We think he's done. Put a fork in Holt. Trade him if you can.

DeSean Jackson UPGRADED FVR: 8.6

Solid game and he is becoming the goto guy in Philly. Didn't score a TD, but he is showing us he is worth the start.

Reggie Brown DOWNGRADED FVR: 6.2

Injured and stinks. The Eagles have other options

Greg Jennings UPGRADED 9.6

This is a consistent player who catches a TD bomb nearly every week. We like him and he's a stud.

Patrick Crayton UPGRADED
We have to upgrade him cause he finally caught a TD pass, but we still like Miles Austin better.

Donald Driver DOWNGRADED FVR: 8.2
Just doesn't score TDs. He's the possesion guy and nothing more.

Braylon Edwards UPGRADED FVR: 9.0

Had a huge game agianst the Giants and has found the end zone in two straight games.

Randy Moss DOWNGRADED FVR: 8.0 LOOK TO TRADE

We think Moss is one of the bigger dissappointments this season so far. Trade him if possible before things get worse. He will score, but who knows when.

Larry Fitzgerald EVEN FVR: 9.8
Without Boldin he is the absolute man in Arizona. 2 more TDs in week 5.

Steve Breaston EVEN FVR: 7.5
Boldin is coming back. He had a great game, but he's back to #3.

Tight Ends

Mercedes Lewis UPGRADED FVR: 7.8

We like this guy and as Garrard get hotter, so will Lewis. Caught a long TD in week 6.

Antonio Gates UPGRADED FVR: 9.5
Another TD for Gates, another day at the job.

Jason Witten DOWNGRADED FVR: 9.2
Strugglingto get into the action. He will get more involved, so be patient.

Dustin Keller DOWNGRADED FVR: 6.1

Where was this guy week 6?

John Carlson UPGRADED FVR: 8.2
With Charlie Frye in the game he caught a blistering 6 yard TD and a total of 4 psses. Good game.

Chris Cooley EVEN FVR: 8.8
Average day for Cooley with 5 catches for 57 yards. No score however.

Visanthe Shiancoe DOWNGRADED FVR: 7.2
Had one catch for 10 yards and was all but absent in week 6.

Monday, October 13, 2008

Romo Could Miss Up To 4 Weeks with Broken Pinky

By STEPHEN HAWKINS, Associated Press Writer
Analysis: Todd Farino

IRVING, Texas (AP)—Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo has a broken finger on his throwing hand and could be out for up to four weeks.
Romo broke his right pinkie on the first play of overtime in a 30-24 loss at Arizona on Sunday.
“We don’t know how long he’ll be out … it depends on how fast that heals,” said coach Wade Phillips, who says there won’t be any surgery. “I’d say week to week, depending on quickly he heals. Different people heal differently.”
The injury leaves the Cowboys (4-2) with 40-year-old Brad Johnson as the starter for Sunday’s game at St. Louis. Johnson, who won a Super Bowl with Tampa Bay, hasn’t started a game since 2006 in Minnesota.
Neither Romo nor Johnson was in the locker room Monday when it was open to reporters.
When linebacker Greg Ellis was told about Romo’s broken finger, he got a somewhat stunned looked on his face and exclaimed, “Wow!” Bradie James said the players will have to rally around each other.
“We’ve got to play relentless football now without our signal caller, our leader, our captain on the offensive side,” James said. “That’s the thing about a season; you never know what can happen. You hope you are playing some real good ball when things go down, so here we are and now we’ve got to make some adjustments and move on.”
Receiver Terrell Owens refused comment, getting agitated when he saw cameras recording him. “Today is not Wednesday,” he said, referring to the day he routinely talks to reporters.
On Sunday, Romo missed on three straight passes to start the overtime, after passing for 321 yards and three touchdowns despite heavy pressure. He was sacked three times and knocked down 19 times.
“Obviously, he had trouble throwing the ball that last series in overtime,” Phillips said.
Romo, whose hand was heavily wrapped after the game, fumbled three times Sunday, losing one, but didn’t throw an interception for the first time in the last nine games.
Through Sunday’s games, Romo ranks second in NFC passing with a 103.5 rating. He has thrown for 14 touchdowns and been intercepted five times. He had his team-record 14th career 300-yard passing game Sunday in his 32nd start. That broke a tie with Troy Aikman, whose 13 were accomplished in 165 starts.
In 2007, his first full season as a starter, Romo led the Cowboys to a 13-3 record, best in the NFC. He set team records with 335 completions for 4,211 yards and 36 touchdowns, including the team-record 15 receiving by Owens, in a season that ended with a loss to the Giants in the playoffs.
It was two years ago this month that Romo replaced Drew Bledsoe as the starter.
Johnson quarterbacked the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to the NFL championship in 2002, and is the only member of the Cowboys with a Super Bowl championship ring. He has been Romo’s backup since last season and threw only 11 passes in 2007.
Johnson, in his second year as Cowboys backup, has only seen brief mopup duty in Dallas, going 7-for-11 for 79 yards. Before coming to Dallas, Johnson started 122 of his 145 career games with Minnesota (1993-98, 2005-06), Washington (1999-2000) and Tampa Bay (2001-04).
Johnson has completed 2,627 of 4,248 career passes (61.8 percent) for 28,627 yards with 164 touchdowns and 117 interceptions. He passed for 2,750 yards in 2006 with nine TDs and 15 interceptions—only the third time in his career with more interceptions than TDs.
“It’s going to be Brad to go in there and prove that he’s not just here for the ride, he’s part of this thing,” Ellis said. “Every opportunity I’ve seen Brad step in on other teams, he’s able to hold it down and get it done.”
Another former Viking, Brooks Bollinger, will be Johnson’s backup. The team doesn’t plan to bring in any other quarterbacks, Phillips said.
The Cowboys also sustained other injuries Sunday.
Rookie running back Felix Jones strained his hamstring and was having and MRI on Monday. Punter Mat McBriar, who was carted off the field after his kick was blocked on the game’s final play, also was having an MRI. The team doesn’t know the extent of his injury yet, Phillips said.

GURU Analysis: This isn't as serious as they are discussing. He will definitely miss 2 weeks, but we think he will try his best to make it back for the game in New York against the division leading Giants. At worse its 3 games because the Cowboys have a BYE for week 10. Do not panic and trade him, and certainly do not cut him. Frankly Romo can use the mental rest and could come back stronger.

NFL TOUCHDOWN SUNDAY SNIDE REMARKS WEEK 6

San Diego Chargers 30, New England Patriots 10
Did the Patriots really call timeout with :02 left in this game? Pathetic. Looks like Belichick runs up the scoring even when he’s losing. Or would that actually be called running down the score?

San Diego’s defense was spectacular Sunday night, particularly Jamal Williams up front and Quintin Jammer on the edge. Jammer defended Randy Moss better than anyone since Moss went to New England.

Matt Cassel was awful in this game. If you’re a Pats fan, you’re just hoping it isn’t because all of his weaknesses and tendencies are starting to show up on film. Cassel needs to accelerate his decision-making in the pocket. He also needs to trust his receivers more (i.e. Randy Moss) and be willing to stretch a defense.

This just in: Deltha O’Neal has given up another deep ball.

LaDainian Tomlinson (toe) is clearly not himself right now. Why even play him late in this game?

Here’s why the Chargers will win the AFC West: Philip Rives is having a career year, Vincent Jackson continues to blossom, and that offensive line, with Marcus McNeil and Nick Hardwick both healthy, is back to being the best in the AFC.

Arizona Cardinals 30, Dallas Cowboys 24
Although this was the first game in NFL history to end on a blocked punt for a touchdown (that’s a neat and surprising piece of trivia, by the way), the Cardinals won this match straight up. They dominated up front and made fewer mistakes than Wade Phillips’s men.

This was the first truly bad game that Flozell Adams has had in quite awhile. Adams could not handle the speed of Bertrand Berry or Travis LaBoy.

Marc Colombo wasn’t much better for the Cowboys over on the right side. He had his lunch eaten all afternoon by Chike Okeafor. Both Cowboys tackles struggled in run-blocking, which may be part of the reason Dallas used so many delay handoffs.

It’s easy to say that Terrell Owens needs to get the ball more, but Tony Romo didn’t have time to hit Owens. The shoddy pass protection forced Romo to check down and throw short, usually to Marion Barber (11 receptions). Barber was at least able to manufacture 128 yards on these receptions, but this isn’t Cowboys football.

Someone tell Leonard Davis that a lineman spiking the ball is only cool if the running back hands it to him. It’s not cool if the lineman picks the ball up off the ground himself. In fact, as Davis learned, it’s a 15-yard penalty.

Watching Edgerrin James at this point in his career is like watching Emmitt Smith in the final years of his career. You know you’re seeing an intelligent, dedicated, Hall of Fame runner, but it gets harder each week convincing yourself that these traits make up for the dire lack of burst.

Kurt Warner is playing at an extremely high level. Not many quarterbacks hang in the pocket as well as he does.

Jacksonville Jaguars 24, Denver Broncos 17
Get used to the losing, Denver fans. In 2001 your team started 3-1 and finished 8-8. The next year they started 4-2 and finished 9-7. In ’03 the Broncos started 5-1 and finished 10-6. They did the same thing again in ’04. And in ’06, Mike Shanahan’s crew began the season 5-1, only to finish 9-7.

In fairness to Denver, they were without Eddie Royal and Tony Scheffler in this one. But the absence of those guys doesn’t explain Jay Cutler’s downfield interception or Brandon Marshall’s fumble.

The Jaguars makeshift offensive line appears to be gelling. Watch, now, as this offense starts to take off. You saw a strong hint of it today with Maurice Jones-Drew going for over 100 yards again.

All seven of Matt Jones’s receptions on Sunday seemed to come at just the right time. I joked about this not long ago, but now I’m being serious: I think his cocaine arrest helped him. The severity of the issue made the former first-round pick realize that he actually could be expendable.

Marcedes Lewis had only three catches Sunday, but all three seemed to expose gaping holes in the middle of Denver’s pass defense. Mark this down as the week that the Broncos’ most fatal flaw was exposed.

Green Bay Packers 27, Seattle Seahawks 17
It’s not surprising that Seattle’s offense struggled in this game; Charlie Frye was under center. Mike Holmgren has zero confidence in Frye.

Just in case it isn’t clear to everyone, Aaron Rodgers is playing excellent football. Coming into this game with a passer rating of 95.5, Rodgers completed 21 of 30 passes for 208 yards and two touchdowns.

It speaks well for the young QB that Greg Jennings has continued his impressive ascension, which began last season playing with Brett Favre.

Holmgren called out his defense this past week, particularly middle linebacker Lofa Tatupu. He basically said what everyone can see: more big plays have to be made.

Charles Woodson continues to pad his stats. He picked off his fourth pass of the season Sunday and also recorded his first sack.

Click here to read Snide Remarks from all Week 6 Games

Friday, October 10, 2008

Guru Gridiron Report: Week 6 Expert League Matchups Preview

Week 5 Expert League Games

We finally got our weekly match ups ready to go. Every week, Todd "The True Guru" Farino (me) will bring you his take on all 7 match ups taking place that week and give a point spread based on the number of points he feels each team can produce. Lets get to it. I'm a bit behind this week, so I won't be writing too much analysis for each game. Next week I promise.

MATCHUP OF THE WEEK

Owners Box Sports (4-1) Vs Big Game Fantasy Sports (2-3) -12

After a tough loss Owners Box Sports looks to rebound against the super hot Big Game FantasySports team led by Patrick Welsh. This is a big game for Patrick as he can come all the way back from a 0-3 start to be 3-3.

Fantasy Football Starters (3-2) Vs Fighting Chance Fantasy (1-4) -21
Match up of the week. Both division leaders square off in week 5. Mike Bowser is looking to continue his undefeated season and Jeff is coming off his first loss and a hard one at that.

Junkyard Jake (3-2) Vs Nooffseason.com (2-3) +9
This should be a fun game to watch. Both teams have played well this season and both are coming off of big wins.

Fantasy Football Search (3-2) Vs. Fantasy Sports Zone (1-4) -11

This is a big match between to rivals. The True Guru looks to put a big nail in the coffin of Rhett Oldham's team and Rhett looks to get on track against a fierce, but beatable opponent.

Scout Fantasy Football (2-3) Vs. Johnny Archive (2-3) -3
To teams struggling at this point to find an identity clash in week 6. A big game for both. One team will get to .500, and one will fall far behind in the standings.

Pro Fantasy Games (2-3) Vs Mock Draft Central (2-3)
Pro Fantasy Games has heated up and looks to keep his winning streak alive against the losing streak of Mock Draft Central. Geoff Stein has no intentions of going down without a fight and looks to get back to basics starting with a win.

Xtreme Fantasy Football (5-0) Vs. NFL Fantasy Playbook (1-3) +30
The Greatest Show on Turf goes to Canada to play AJ and his band of merry men. AJ will try to keep it close, but note this; Aj has had a huge upset before, so let's watch this one.

The Guru Gridiron Report: Week 6 Bench/Start Defenses

Week 6 comes as a very important week. For allot of managers its a make or break week towards a championship. Four important, but not overly important teams or on the BYE and will affect rosters. They are the Buffalo Bills, Pittsburgh Steelers, Tennessee Titans, Kansas City Chiefs. Hopefully you are able to back the few lost players up. Here are our week 6 picks.

DEFENSES AND YOU MUST START
If there was ever a week to start Minnesota's defense this is the week. Backup QB, Detroit, and at home. After what Reggie Bush did last week and the fact that the Saints are at home consider starting the Saints DEF/ST this week. Another team you have to start, but temper your expectations for points is Washington's defense. They should have a very good game and finally get some sacks. We know they won't give up many points.

Others: Chicago, Green Bay, Atlanta

Other DEFENSES To Consider Starting With Some Risk
The New York Giants have been outstanding, but we think Cleveland will give them a run for their money in the dog pound. They are a must start, but they are a risk to give up some points this week. We'd like to say start Indianapolis defense against Baltimore, but without Sanders and possibly Freeney there is no point. However it is a favorable match up for them.

Others: New England, Miami, Denver, San Diego

Please Bench These DEFENSES

Cincinnati, Dallas, Arizona, Cleveland, Detroit, Houston, Oakland, Jacksonville

Sleeper Defenses

We like the NY Jets defense against the Palmer-less Bengals this week in New York. A must start. Seattle defense is another sleeper defense. They play well at home and with Rodgers still hurting he can leave the game at any point, so if your Titan or Pittsburgh defense is out, get these guys and hope for the best.

The True Guru

NFL TOP FIVE OFFENSIVE PLAYERS AT EACH POSITION

A while back I made mention of several players being in the top five at their position. After receiving a slew of emails from readers saying I was being too vague, and that I needed to share my mysterious "top five" lists, I went ahead and published a defensive version.
This week, I share the offense. These lists reflect who the best players are RIGHT NOW. History and past seasons are factored in, as well as what’s transgressed this season. Any players currently on IR will not show up on these lists.
At quarterback, with Tom Brady hurt, Peyton Manning is the consensus No. 1. Right behind him is his brother. I was surprised to see that I had ranked Eli this high, but the man has proven his mettle (see Super Bowl XLII). He’s also improved his consistency, and he can win any style of game for you. If it’s a shootout, he’s in. If it’s a slugfest, he’ll manage the tempo and flow.
I have Ben Roethlisberger as the third best QB in football, essentially for the same reasons that Eli is No. 2. At four, I have Drew Brees, the game’s most prolific passer right now. And at five is Tony Romo, who narrowly beat out Jay Cutler and Brett Favre.
The running backs were much easier to figure out. The four players in the league who have the best lateral mobility are Adrian Peterson, LaDainian Tomlinson, Brian Westbrook and Joseph Addai. Not surprisingly, this is the order of my top four. Peterson is the best because he offers the most power. LT’s vision is second to none. Westbrook’s versatility in invaluable. Addai’s all-around polish is a big component of Indy’s normally high-powered offense. Rounding out the top five is Steven Jackson, who offers an almost ideal combination of speed and strength.
Click here to read WR, TE, and all three OL spots.

Thursday, October 09, 2008

The Guru Gridiron Report: Week 6 Bench/Start WRs & TEs

WIDE RECEIVERS YOU MUST START
We have to say start Roddy White this week as we think the Chicago defense will contain the run, but not Roddy. Andre Johnson had a breakout week last week and even with Schaub returning we expect him to have another big week, so start him. Bernard Berrian is coming off a big week and should fine plenty of action against Detroit. We really like Robert Meachem this week, he is simply too fast for the Raiders defense. We said Bench Santana Moss last week and this week we say start him. Don't give up on Brandon Marshall! Start him. Finally, Steve Breaston and Larry Fitzgerald will be all over the field on Sunday.

Others: Reggie Wayne, Terrell Owens, Larry Fitzgerald, Andre Johnson, Greg Jennings, T.J. Houshmandzadeh, Jerricho Cotchery, Lavernues Coles, DeSean Jackon, Randy Moss, Plaxico Burress, Braylon Edwards

TIGHT ENDS YOU MUST START

Jason Witten, Antonio Gates, Chris Cooley, Visanthe Shiancoe, Zach Miller Benjamin Watson, Kellen Winslow

Other Wide Receivers To Consider Starting With Some Risk
Kevin Walters had a slow week last week, but look for him to pick it up against Miami at home. Marvin Harrison has been ineffective most of this season, but he is an excellent matchup against Baltimore. With Kitna out its hard to recommend any Detroit WRs, but we think Calvin Johnson should do OK. Lance Moore went from 2 TDs, to zero, but if you ned to plug him in, do it. Steve Smith should have an OK game against the Tampa 2 defense, but don't expect any deep balls. Again, we like Ike! Ike Hillard should get another TD this week. Reggie Williams will find the end zone against Denver.

Others: Devin Hester, Javon Walker, Amani Toomer, Matt Jones, Bryant Johnson, Muhsin Muhammad , Chad Johnson, Wes Welker, Vincent Jackson, Brandon Stokley, Donald Driver, Sinorice Moss, Chris Chambers (Doubtful)

Other Tight Ends To Consider Starting With Some Risk

Mercedes Lewis, John Carleson, Donald Lee, Dustin Keller

Please Bench These Wide Receivers
Bench Roy Williams. He will fine no opening without Kitna at the helm. Another great receiver you have to bench is Torry Holt. It just won't happen this week.

Others: Patrick Crayton, Reggie Brown, David Patten, Isaac Bruce, Dante Stallworth, Joey Galloway, Dane Looker, DJ Hackett, Roy Williams, Ronald Curry, Eddie Royal (injury)

Please Bench These Tight Ends

Todd Heap, Alge Crumpler, Dante Rosario, Vernon Davis, Tony Scheffler (Out with injury), Kevin Boss

Sleeper Wide Receivers
Look for Early Doucet to get many pass targets from Warner against the Cowboys. At least 7-8 should go his way. On the other side we see the Cowboys using Austin Miles more and primarily to get a score. Probably only 3-4 targets, but 2 of them should be bombs and 1 score. Chansi Stuckey hasn't scored in a few weeks, so watch out for week 6 and a TD for Stuckey. Finally Brandon Llyod should re-insert himself into the Chicago offense and perform well against Detroit poor defense.

Good luck. Next are our Defenses!

The True Guru

The Guru Gridiron Report: Week 6 Bench/Start Runningbacks

RUNNINGBACKS YOU MUST START
We think that Matt Forte will see extensive action this week, so start him if you got him. Marion Barber has let him owners down the last couple of weeks, but Dallas will work him into the game plan and he should fine the end zone once or twice. Steve Slaton has been amazing in 3 games and we don't see Miami containing him in front of his home crowd. Le'Ron McClain have been great in the red zone and against the Colts he should get some room to run. Reggie Bush has been amazing this season. He can score in three different ways and can do them all against Oakland. We now get it, Clinton Portis is a healthy great runningback. START HIM.

Others: Frank Gore, LaDainian Tomlinson, Adrian Peterson, Joesph Addai, Ronnie Brown, Brandon Jacobs, Ernest Graham, Michael Pittman

Other Runningbacks To Consider Starting With Some Risk
Thomas Jones will get carries against the Bengals and should fine the end zone once. Michael Turner has been inconsistent in performances this season, so beware on what you expect out of him this week. If you have another good option, we'd say bench him. Steven Jackson will get some junk points and can overpower the Redskins defense, he's worth the start. We like Michael Bush this week, but he may lose carries to Justin Fargas who is returning from injury. This is assuming McFadden is out as well. Julius Jones is a solid start against Green Bay art home. Just hope Green Bay doesn't blow up the game early and making it a passing game. We don't think that will happen.

Others: DeAngelo Williams, Jonathan Stewart, Maurice Jones-Drew, Tim Hightower, Jamal Lewis, Kevin Faulk

Please Bench These Runningbacks
Bench Ryan Grant. We said it at the beginning of the season and we say it now. He will not have the success he had last year, period. Any New England Patriot Runningback other than Faulk, bench.

Others: Edgerrin James, Rudi Johnson, Kevin Smith

Sleeper Runningbacks
If Westbrook doesn't' play, Correll Buckhalter looks to be a great sleeper start against San Francisco. We also like Andre Hall who should get allot of carries with Selvin Young out this week.

Good luck. Next are our Wide Receivers and Tight Ends!

The True Guru

The Guru Gridiron Report: Week 6 Bench/Start Quarterbacks

QUARTERBACKS YOU MUST START
Week 6 has some exciting matchups for quarterbacks. First we go to New York where the Jets welcome in the Bengals and look for Brett Farve to have a huge day. Then are friend Drew Brees welcomes in Oakland and he should have a field day against the strong, but still crippled Oakland secondary. Donovan McNabb looks to get back on track against San Francisco. We have no doubt he'll get 300 and at least 2 TDs. Philip Rivers welcomes the Patriots. Not only his he looking for a win after a poor performance, but its the Patriots who have beaten them 4 times straight. He will be shooting all day, so start him. Finally, a shootout in Arizona. Tony Romo and Kurt Warner will be firing like there is no tomorrow. One of thse QBs could end up with 4 TDs.

Others: Jason Campbell, Eli Manning, Jay Cutler, Matt Schaub (Check his health)

Other Quarterbacks To Consider Starting With Some Risk
There are lots of risky starts this week starting with Peyton Manning at home against Baltimore. The Baltimore defense has played well and can limit Manning to 1 TD, but either way you have to start him. We like Matt Ryan at Homes against the Bears. Him and Roddy White are hooking up weekly and we don't see it stopping against the Bears. Matt Cassel will see plenty of action against the Chargers and depending on which Chargers defense shows up depends on his success. Start him. If Carson Palmer is healthy, he's work a start against the Jets. I'd rather not recommend him, but he could throw a few TDs in what could be a shootout. If there was ever a week to start Gus Frerotte this is the wee against Detroit.

Others: David Garrard, J.T. O'Sullivan, Aaron Rodgers, Matt Hasselbeck

Please Bench These Quarterbacks
There are several Quarterbacks to bench starting with Marc Bulger. He will find little success against Washington. We do not like Jake Delhomme at Tampa Bay, so bench him if you can. He might squeeze in one TD, but Tampa Bay is tough at home. Kyle Orton will have problems at Atlanta. He is not worth a start this week.
Others: Jon Kitna, Joe Flacco, Chad Pennington

Sleeper Quarterbacks
We have three sleepers for you. The first is Derek Anderson at home against the Giants. The Giants are due for a mess up and the Browns have gotten healthy and they are in the dog pound. Look for Anderson to throw for 300 yards and 2 TDs. Jeff Garcia will most likely get the start at home against Carolina. When he starts at home he is very good against an inconsistent Carolina defense. We expect 200 yards and 2 TDs. JaMarcus Russell is coming off solid games and looks to throw allot at New Orleans. We expect 225 yards and 1-2 TDs. He is a deep sleeper, so only start him if you must.

Good luck. Next are our Runningbacks!

The True Guru

Wednesday, October 08, 2008

Most enticing NFL trade bait

By Jason Cole, Yahoo! Sports

Though in-season NFL trades are a rarity, four team executives talked to Yahoo! Sports about players they believe should be dealt prior to the deadline next Tuesday.
The executives agreed that the only teams that should really be cleaning house at this point are the Cincinnati Bengals, Detroit Lions and St. Louis Rams. Even though the Houston Texans are 0-4, many observes believe they will rebound and play well. Furthermore, the Texans don’t have many players who should just be dumped, aside from running back Ahman Green.
“And I would only take Green if I was truly desperate,” one of the executive said. “Thank God I’m not in that situation.”
Here’s a list of the top 10 players who should be dealt.
Johnson was limited to 2 yards on 7 carries against the Panthers in Week 5.
(AP Photo/Rick Havner)
1. RB Larry Johnson, Kansas City Chiefs
Comment: “By the time the Chiefs are good again, he’s going to be done. … I don’t understand why they gave him all the money and then they wouldn’t sign Jared Allen. If you’re rebuilding, you don’t do it with a running back who’s going to be burned.” Another executive said Johnson has a reputation around the league as being a “spoiled brat” and “not much of a leader.”
Best potential fits: He’s not a perfect fit in Philadelphia because of the style of the offense, but all of the executives said the Eagles could use him now that Brian Westbrook has broken ribs. Other teams that could use him would be the Denver Broncos, New England Patriots and New Orleans Saints.
2. DE Dewayne White Detroit
Comment: “He isn’t a great player, but he’s a good one and he can help any rotation. Plus, you can move him inside from time to time. He probably won’t get more than five or six sacks, but that’s worth it if you’re the right team.” Said another exec: “Try finding a pass rusher at this point of the year.”
Best potential fits: Just about any team except the New York Giants, Indianapolis Colts, Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Jacksonville Jaguars.
3. WR T.J. Houshmandzadeh, Bengals
Comment: “He’s going to be a free agent. He’s going to get paid. The Bengals won’t pay him, which is a joke because he’s one of the few guys on that team you could even begin to call a leader.” Said another executive: “He’d be perfect in Indianapolis, but it won’t happen.”
Best potential fits: Bucs, Jags, Dallas Cowboys, Tennessee Titans and Buffalo Bills.
4. CB Patrick Surtain, Chiefs
Comment: “He’s hurt (shoulder injury) and he has declined, but it’s the same thing as pass rushers; you need cover guys. You can’t get enough of them.”
Best potential fits: Saints, Arizona Cardinals, Green Bay Packers and Baltimore Ravens.
5. CB Brian Kelly, Lions
Comment: “Same as with Surtain, although Kelly has declined more and he has problems in straight man coverage … not a great player anymore, but they’ll get more for him than he’s really worth.”
Best potential fits: Cardinals, Packers, Saints and Ravens.
6. WR Roy Williams, Lions
Comment: “I think he’ll play harder for some other team.”
Best potential fits: Jags, Bucs, Cowboys and Minnesota Vikings.
7. DT Cory Redding, Lions
Comment: “If I’m the Lions, I clean house starting now. I don’t even wait for a new GM. This guy played hard for a contract and hasn’t done anything since. Again, I think it’s more about Detroit than the player, so I’d take a chance … if he’s motivated, he can rush the passer from the inside.”
Best potential fits: Colts, Eagles, Redskins and Broncos.
Will the Bengals part ways with Johnson, right, or Houshmandzadeh?
(AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
8. TE Tony Gonzalez, Chiefs
Comment: “He’s a good guy in the locker room and he takes care of himself. Between the leadership and the fact that he might still be really good in two to three years, it would take a lot for me to deal him and I don’t think anybody is going to offer that much.”
Best potential fits: Jags, Bucs, Vikings and Titans.
9. WR Chad Johnson, Bengals
Comment: “I’m amazed how quiet he has been. Maybe that injury is worse than we thought. You know he wants out and he’s the most gifted receiver in the league. But the injury is an issue.”
Best potential fits: Pats, Cowboys, Vikings, Titans and Jags.
10. DE Antwan Odom, Texans
Comment: “They just signed him as a free agent (in the offseason), so I don’t think he’ll be available. But I think they realize he’s overrated. He’s purely a complementary player.”
Best potential fits: Pats, Jags and Colts.

Fighting Chance Fantasy's Start/Sit Week 6

Quarterbacks

Start: Matt Cassel, New England Patriots vs. San Diego Chargers. Shockingly, no one has been worst against the pass than the San Diego Chargers. The Chargers are allowing over 250 yards per game through the air and have also allowed 10 passing touchdowns in the first five games. The Patriots offense also got going for the first time this season against the 49ers. Cassel seemed to show more confidence, and even hit Randy Moss on a long bomb of a touchdown. He obviously isn’t Brady, but Cassel should continue to improve as the season goes on.

Start: Carson Palmer, Cincinnati Bengals vs. New York Jets. At the beginning of the season, I would have thought it to be a no brainer to start Palmer every week, but given the performance of the Cincy offense this week, I’m sure some of his owners have sat him at least once. The Bengals are still winless, and the offense has been surprisingly bad. However, in the last couple of games they are starting to get it going a little bit through the air now that it seems that Palmer is OK. Chad Johnson has been a colossal disappointment, but T.J. Houshmandzadeh has turned it around. The running game has been nonexistant, which means they will probably be throwing a lot again this week. The Jets are also giving up 265 yards per game, and even though they had a week off, I expect the Bengals to give them a hell of a game this weekend.

Sit: Matt Ryan, Atlanta Falcons vs. Chicago Bears. Ryan has been one of the more impressive rookie QBs to come down the pike in recent history, as he has given some respectability back to the Falcons franchise. however, he will get his toughest test to date. Although by yardage the Bears defense hasn’t been great against the pass, they have allowed only four touchdowns through the air so far this season, and I can see Ryan throwing for under 200 yards and a max of one score.

Sit: Kurt Warner, Arizona Cardinals vs. Dallas Cowboys. The Cardinals’ pass attack has been very potent this week, even with the loss of Anquan Boldin they didn’t do bad against Buffalo. I just think the Cowboys are due for a dominant performance, and it might come at the Cardinals expense. This is more of a gut call than going with statistics, as the Cowboys are really just middle of the road in terms of pass defense. Warner is on pace to throw a crazy number of touchdown passes, and he has to slow down one of these weeks, I’m just figuring it will be this one.

Running Backs

Start: Ronnie Brown, Miami Dolphins vs. Houston Texans. Whether he is lined up in the backfield, or actually behind center, Ronnie Brown is turning into one of the more explosive players in football. The Dolphins have found ways to use his skills to get him in positions to be successful and it is working beautifully. I’m not sure why teams haven’t figured out that when he lines up behind center, chances are he’s still going to run the ball. Regardless of that the Dolphins are on a roll, and they play the winless Texans, who just had their guts ripped out by Peyton Manning and the Colts. The boys from Houston are allowing over 130 yards per game on the ground, and I can see Brown having another great game for your fantasy team.

Start: Matt Forte, Chicago Bears vs. Atlanta Falcons. The Falcons allowed Ryan Grant, who hadn’t shown a thing in three weeks, to almost run for 100 yards against them. They have been in the bottom third of the league in rush defense with over 120 yards per game on the ground. And with every solid game that Kyle Orton has, the better and better it gets for Forte. Not only is he good catching balls out of the backfield, but if defenses actually have to respect the passing game of the Bears (something you haven’t had to do in many years), the running lanes should open up wider for Forte who has already had a great rookie season. I look for another 100 yard game and a touchdown for Forte.

click here for the rest of the list!

Tuesday, October 07, 2008

The Guru Gridiron Report: Expert League Week 5 Games

2008 Fantasy Football Search Expert League

The Guru Gridiron Report has an exciting week 5 of action in the Fantasy Football Search Expert League. This was a decisive week that saw another team fall from the unbeaten, another dominating win for Xtreme Fantasy Football and some other unique surprises. Let's check out the action:

The expert league being hosted at http://www.fantasyfootballsearch.com/2008_fantasy_football_expert_league.asp. Every week will bring you updates, scores, and analysis of what went on in that week in The 2008 Fantasy Football Search Expert League.

Pro Fantasy Games 118, NFL Fantasy Playbook 68
After upsetting The True Guru last week, NFL Fantasy Playbook came up flat against the other Farino brother and was dominated in a blowout win. PFG's running attack gave him nearly all the points he needed as Steve Slaton, Brain Westbrook, and Ronnie Brown combined for 64 points. While is QB Jake Delhomme did ok, his WRs showed weakness netting only 13.6 points between D. Jackson and Walters.

Big Game Fantasy Sports 154, Johnny Archive 66
BGFS got his second win in a row to up his record to 2-3 and did it in grand fashion beating Johnny Archive's team by 88 points. To be fair JA's team was let down by zero pint performances by Larry Johnson and Santana Moss, but this day belonged to Big Game Fantasy Sports no matter what Johnny did. He had three players score 26 or more points and thoseinclude DeAngelo Williams, Andre Johnson, and Lee Evans. In told, those three scored a combined 93 points beating JA's team alone.

Fantasy Football Search 137, Owners Box Sports 91
This was a huge win for me in the Fantasy Football Search Expert League. Not only did I knock off one of the undefeated Eastern division teams, but I prevented myself from falling under .500 as 3-2 sounds so much better than 2-3. The big players of the day in this league were Reggie Bush (26.7), Tony Romo (23), and Randy Moss (28). I have to say I was pleased with Ike Hillard with 12 points and my TE Heath Miller made a fantasy appearance with 15 point. Overall it was a well played game on both ends. Owners Box Sports WRs failed him with 2 of them getting zeros and TO getting 17 points. He did give me an early scare and held the lead most of the day with an outstanding 27 point day from Chris Cooley. Going into Monday he still had Drew Brees and I had Reggie Bush and a 36 point lead. I didn't worry much, but things can happen. Thank God in this case I came away with a big win.

Xtreme Fantasy Football 171, Fantasy Football Starters 125
After starting 3-0, Fantasy Football Starters loss his second consecutive game and was destroyed by the easily best team in the league through 5 weeks Xtreme Fantasy Football. Team Bowser as he called himself shattered the league record in points and did it again with his mighty force of WRs who combined for an electric 72 points. Add in Witten's 21 and Portis's 26 and you have the record high score. XFF remains unbeaten thus far and is not looking to slow down anytime soon.

Junkyard Jake 143, Mock Draft Central 86
Continuing the string of blowouts. Junkyard Jake hammered Mock Draft Central with a powerful running attack of Marshawn Lynch, Matt Forte, and Michael Turner who netted him 51 points. Only 1 player on his team failed to score in double digits and that was Lynch. Felix Jones and the Minnesota defense came up big for MDC, but the rest of his team except for LT failed to get more than 9 points. Its a tough loss for Mock Draft Central and a big win for Junkyard Jake.

Nooffseason.com 87, Fantasy Sports Zone 57
Bad loss for Rhett and his Fantasy Sports Zone team. With a sub par performance from Paul hickey's team, FSZ had a chance to come up with a badly needed win, but his team couldn't muster much. Only three players (Rivers, Titans Def, Randel El) managed double digit points and even more shocking, no other player got more than 6 points. ONthe side of Nooffseason.com, they got solid contributions from Cutler (16), Joseph Addai (14), and Le'Ron McClain (14) and pulled away with a steal of a win.

Scout Fantasy Football 91, Fighting Chance Fantasy 77

FCF neede a big win and so did Scout Fantasy Football. IN the end FCF could not hold up and suffered a tough 14 point loss. SFF owes his win to Brandon Jacobs (29) and the Bears defense (20). He really had a great week if you remove the fact that Kitna got zero ints. That was an opportunity for FCF who tried to pull out a win with solid performances from Wes Welker and the Pathers defense, but in the end he took his hardest loss of the season and falls to 1-4. What's worse is he has Fantasy Football Starters in week 6. Nothing gets easy for Ryan Hallam these days.

Week 5 Match Ups:
Fantasy Football Starters (3-2) Vs Fighting Chance Fantasy (1-4)
Match up of the week. Both division leaders square off in week 5. Mike Bowser is looking to continue his undefeated season and Jeff is coming off his first loss and a hard one at that.

Junkyard Jake (3-2) Vs Nooffseason.com (2-3)
This should be a fun game to watch. Both teams have played well this season and both are coming off of big wins.

Fantasy Football Search (3-2) Vs. Fantasy Sports Zone (1-4) This is a big match between to rivals. The True Guru looks to put a big nail in the coffin of Rhett Oldham's team and Rhett looks to get on track against a fierce, but beatable opponent.

Scout Fantasy Football (2-3) Vs. Johnny Archive (2-3)
To teams struggling at this point to find an identity clash in week 6. A big game for both. One team will get to .500, and one will fall far behind in the standings.

Pro Fantasy Games (2-3) Vs Mock Draft Central (2-3)
Pro Fantasy Games has heated up and looks to keep his winning streak alive against the losing streak of Mock Draft Central. Geoff Stein has no intentions of going down without a fight and looks to get back to basics starting with a win.

Owners Box Sports (4-1) Vs Big Game Fantasy Sports (2-3)
After a tough loss Owners Box Sports looks to rebound against the super hot Big Game FantasySports team led by Patrick Welsh. This is a big game for Patrick as he can come all the way back from a 0-3 start to be 3-3.

Xtreme Fantasy Football (5-0) Vs. NFL Fantasy Playbook (1-3)
The Greatest Show on Turf goes to Canada to play AJ and his band of merry men. AJ will try to keep it close, but note this; Aj has had a huge upset before, so let's watch this one.

The Guru Gridiron Report: The True Guru Gets Back To Winning 5-1

Leagues: 6 (3 Yahoo!, 2 CBS Sportsline, 1 ESPN)

Total Record: 24-6

This was a great comeback week for The True Guru. I managed to win in 5 leagues and only losing in the NSP Experts League. Most of my players played great games with a few explosive performances. I remain undefeated in 3 leagues, but my biggest win of the week came by the smallest of margins, less then 1 point.

Here are my six matchups for week 5:

Coast 2 Coast League

The Wildcats1192 simply did not show up this week and if they had they still wouldn't have won as I scored my second highest score of the season. It was also the 4 time in 5 weeks I broke 100 points in this low scoring league. Every player on my team except for the Dallas defense scored in double digits. Kurt Warner and Larry Fitzgerald combined for 38 points and Steve Slaton tacked on 21.50 on way to a blowout victory. I remained undefeated with the most points in a very competitive league.

Football Dynasty VI Another big week in the Dynasty league. IN this high scoring league where you start 21 offensive and defensive players I broke 300 points for the third time this season and I remained undefeated as well. Along with Ryan Hallam from Fighting Chance Fantasy, we are the only undefeated teams left. Right before game time I had to bump Matt Schaub and I pumped in JT O'Sullivan to the tune of 27.67 points. My three runningbacks (Reggie Bush, Michael Turner and Selvin Young) combined for 66 points and that was with Young only getting 5.7 points. He was a BYE week start. My WR core remains one of the best assembled in the league with Terrell Owens, Greg Jennings, and Lee Evans getting a combined 70 points. ON the defensive side it was a let down week. Kyle Vanden Bosch got zero points and only three defenders broke into double digits. I did maintain most points in this league as well.

J.A.I.L. LeagueI crossed paths with the commissioner Johnny Archive and it was not his day. To be fair he was unable to swap out Matt Schaub late before game time and lost some points. However in a league where QBs are powerless he would have still lost big. Overall my team played well. With Burress suspended I start rookie DeSean Jackson and a tradegy in the scoring system did not allow him to get points for a TD return, so he only got me 1 point. However Terrell Owens and Larry Fitzgerald provided me with 33 combined points and Jason Witten added in 17. The big player for a third straight week was Steve Slaton with 21 points. One more shout out to my Bears defense who scored a season high 26 points against the hapless Lions. It was a great team performance and a solid 117 points scored.

Vegas Vs Texas League

This was the biggest win of the season for me. At 2-2 and trailing the division leader by 2 games and a tiebreaker it was a must win. Not only did I keep pace with the LV Ravens, but I took sole possession of 2nd place in the division with a narrow less than 1 point win over the TexBengals. Fergie as we call him entered the league last season and has yet to defeat me in three tries. The outstanding performer of the day was the Cardinals defense. I started them over my Vikings defense and it proved to be the difference. The Cardinals defense put up 30 points, but even more important was a last minute sack that put me over. I was without Farve and start Griese over Garrard. bad move, but I got the "W", so I move on to week 6.

NSP Experts League

This was my lone loss of the week. Luckylester.com is the top team in this league and I felt I could upset him for his first loss of the season, but my players didn't performs as I expected. Still nursing an injured Colston, my receiving corps did nothing scoring a combined 18 points between Meachem, Marshall, and DeSean Jackson. My RBs did exceptional starting Felix Jones and Addai, netting 30 points. This lost can be directed towards the WRs, Antonio Gates, and Drew Brees. If they would have done what was expect I could have made up the 35 points.

Fantasy Football Search Expert League This was a huge win for me in the Fantasy Football Search Expert League. Not only did I knock off one of the undefeated Eastern division teams, but I prevented myself from falling under .500 as 3-2 sounds so much better than 2-3. The big players of the day in this league were Reggie Bush (26.7), Tony Romo (23), and Randy Moss (28). I have to say I was pleased with Ike Hillard with 12 points and my TE Heath Miller made a fantasy appearance with 15 point. Overall it was a well played game on both ends. Owners Box Sports WRs failed him with 2 of them getting zeros and TO getting 17 points. He did give me an early scare and held the lead most of the day with an outstanding 27 point day from Chris Cooley. Going into Monday he still had Drew Brees and I had Reggie Bush and a 36 point lead. I didn't worry much, but things can happen. Thank God in this case I came away with a big win.

The Guru Gridiron Report: Week 5 Review & Recap

Week 5 had some tough injuries, but some great surprises. How about Reggie Bush running back 2 punt returns? One thing that definitely surprised us was the NY Giants wide receivers. We expected Amani Toomer to get lots of action on Sunday with Plaxico Burress suspended, but most of the action went to to of the Giants younger WRs Sinorice Moss and Domenik Hixon. Lets review some of these weeks performances and see what other surprises we can discover:

Quarterbacks (STOCK VALUE)

Jay Cutler - DOWNGRADED

Cutler has slowly been contracting with his numbers. Expect him to blowup again sooner then later. The question was how would he perform on the road or against good defenses. So far OK, but not like he first 2 weeks.

Gus Frerotte UPGRADED

We still wouldn't recommend starting him, but he threw for 200 yards and a TD. He's getting more comfortable with is offense, so he's worth a flyier in a QB drained league.

Philip Rivers DOWNGRADED LOOK TO ACQUIRE

The Miami defense is looking great this season. Rivers still should have over powered them and scratched out 159 yards and 1 TD. He's still a must start, but he's becoming average.

Tony Romo EVEN

He threw 3 TDs, but only 176 yards. He also is throwing INTs and fumbling. Something is in his head and he's making bad decisions. Maybe its Jessica. He is still one of the best QBs if not the best.

Aaron Rodgers UPGRADED - LOOK TO TRADE

Injured his shoulder in a loss to Tampa Bay. That is never good for a QB. Threw two TDs to Jennings and only a 165 yards. He always has the ability to score points, but we worry about his ability to spread the ball around and maximize points.

Jake Delhomme UPGRADED

Delhomme is back. We were wrong about him in the preseason. He looks strong and is really getting better every week.

Drew Brees EVEN LOOK TO ACQUIRE

330 yards and a TD in week 5. In our opinion he's the best QB in fantasy football. He's without his #1 WR and his TE. When those guys come back watchout.

Donovan McNabb DOWNGRADED - LOOK TO TRADE

Another bad game. This is more of what we expected out of the Eagles. We aren't saying give up on the man, but just don't expect many more 3 TD games. You may get 1 or 2, but not much more.

J.T. O'Sullivan UPGRADED - LOOK TO ACQUIRE

Not allot of yards, but 3 TDs in week 5. He's getting better every week. He's this years Derek Anderson. If you need a QB, he's cheap and available.

Matt Schaub EVEN

Had a virus and didn't play. We like that Andre Johnson got involved, so hope that bodes well for Schaub in week 6.

Carson Palmer EVEN - LOOK TO TRADE

Just a bad QB. Him and the entire Bengals look sad and are a shell of what they use to be. He did manage 2 TDs against Dallas, but we'd dump this guy ASAP.

Jason Campbell EVEN - LOOK TO ACQUIRE

We were very high on this guy coming in and he hasn't disappointed us expect week 1 and 5. Still keep this guy on your roster adn start him when you need too.

Matt Cassel UPGRADED

He threw 2 INTs, but also threw for 259 yards and a touchdown. We still aren't in favor of the guy, but he runs a strong offense and as he builds chemistry with his guys he can only get better.

Kurt Warner UPGRADED

He's playing like he did in his superbowl years. He's still one bad hit away from retirement, but he's one of the best QBs in fantasy football and a must start every week.

Matt Hasselbeck - DOWNGRADED - LOOK TO TRADE

Everyone expected more from him with Branch and Engram back. Instead we got a zero TD day and a benched quarterback. Dump him if you can. He still has good games ahead of him,, but not many.

Brett Farve - DID NOT PLAY

Runningbacks (STOCK VALUE)

Brain Westbrook DOWNGRADED

He got a TD, but not much else. He also fractured 2 ribs, so keep an eye on the injury report.

Marion Barber DOWNGRADED

Another tough game for Barber as he didn't find the end zone. The Cowboys don't have a good game plan for him, so its best if they start using him with Felix Jones sharing time and at the goal line.

Steve Slaton UPGRADED

Another great performance by the rookie. Ahman Green did sneak in and steal some carries, but if the Texans are smart ( a called QB roll out with a 3 score lead????) they will make him the featured back.

Reggie Bush UPGRADED

Wow. A huge day, especially on special teams with 2 punt returns for TDs. This is the Reggie Bush we expected.

Tim Hightower UPGRADED - LOOK TO ACQUIRE

The guy has 5 TDs in 5 games. He's a must own back getting 8-10 touches a game.

Ronnie Brown - UPGRADED LOOK TO TRADE

Another strong performance, but eventually teams are going to catchup with the "Wildcat" Formation. Also, they have some tough defenses coming up. His value is very high. I traded him in one league for a much healthier and reliable Frank Gore.

Matt Forte DOWNGRADED

85 total yards, but we are afraid that this is the Matt Forte and Bears offense we expected. It does worry us, but looking at it they were going up against a tough defense with confusing schemes. Watch how Forte reacts next week to see his character. We think he'll be fine.

Larry Johnson DOWNGRADED
2 yards! 2 yards. Back to the old Larry.

Michael Turner UPGRADED
121 yards and a TD. Exactly how we saw this game going. The Atlanta offense is doing very well and it starts with Turner.

Ryan Grant DOWNGRADED LOOK TO TRADE

We couldn't be more proud of this call in the preseason. We got hammered for ranking him so low, but looks like we were right. He had his best game of the 2008 season, 83 yards.

Thomas Jones DID NOT PLAY

Jonathon Stewart EVEN
He didn't get a touchdown this week, but did rack up 80 total yards. This week the TDs went to DeAngelo. He's still a good #2 RB.

DeAngelo Williams UPGRADED
Breakout game with 123 yards and 2 TDs. We expect more of this from DeAngelo especially with him breaking the 20 carry mark.

Rudi Johnson/ Kevin Smith DOWNGRADED
Does anyone know what's going on in Detroit?

Wide Receiver (STOCK VALUE)

Terrell Owens EVEN
Dallas needs an offensive game plan. When they fine one, we will upgrade Owens. Till then hope for big games.

Miles Austin EVEN
There weren't many catches in week 5 by any Cowboy receivers. Austin did have the chance for a TD, but it went through his hands and into Crayton's hands. He could have had 3 straight games with a TD.

Eddie Royal DOWNGRADED
Royal sprained his ankle after 3 catches and looks to be out 2-3 weeks.

Sinorice Moss UPGRADED - LOOK TO ACQUIRE
We finally got to see him in action and he had a great game. When Burress comes back this week we still expect Moss to be in the game plan with is blazing speed. Come on, a receiver with the last name of Moss not fast? 2 TDs and 45 yards. Great fill in WR for a BYE week.

Robert Meacham DOWNGRADED
Tough game for Meachem. 2 catches, 31 yards. Keep the faith. He has more to offer and will get more fantasy points in time.

Kevin Walters DOWNGRADED
36 yards and nothing else. Weak game from Walters. Didn't catch a ball till the 4th quarter.

Chansi Stuckey DID NOT PLAY

Jerricho Cotchery DID NOT PLAY

Plaxico Buress SUSPENDED WEEK 5

Andre Johnson UPGRADED
Huge game for Johnson. 131 yards and a TD. We expect more of that, and hope that Schaub can deliver once he returns.

Torry Holt DID NOT PLAY.

DeSean Jackson UPGRADED
A weak game on the offensive side, but returned a punt for special teams.

Reggie Brown DOWNGRADED
I'm not sure if this guy should ever start on a fantasy roster.

Lance Moore DOWNGRADED
Hopefully you didn't get your hopes up too high for Moore. 5 catches, 31 yards. He's back on Earth.

Lee Evans UPGRADED
Lost his QB, but did catch his signature TD bomb. Beware of him with Edwards out, but Loseman can get him the ball as well.

Greg Jennings EVEN
87 yards and a TD. About what we expected. Another day at work for Jennings.

Lavernues Coles DID NOT PLAY

Patrick Crayton UPGRADED
We have to upgrade him cause he finally caught a TD pass, but we still like Miles Austin better.

Donald Driver UPGRADED
Caught a TD as we called it. Jennings is still the man, but Driver will get his fair share of targets.

Braylon Edwards DID NOT PLAY

Randy Moss UPGRADED
Cassel hooked up with Moss for a TD and a 100+ yard game. We like that Moss is connecting with his QB. We think he will more as time goes by. Be confident with starting Moss.

Larry Fitzgerald - UPGRADED
Without Boldin he is the absolute man in Arizona. 2 more TDs in week 5.

Steve Breaston EVEN
He took Boldin's spot for a few weeks. 7 catches for 77 yards was fairly solid. Keep him for a few eeks and them cut or bench him.

Tight Ends (STOCK VALUE)

Vernon Davis DOWNGRADED
Cut him ASAP. Worthless.

Robert Royal DOWNGRADED

2 catches and 8 yards?

Antonio Gates DOWNGRADED
With Rivers struggling that is not good for Gates.

Kellen Winslow DID NOT PLAY

Jason Witten UPGRADED
Another TD. He is coming on as we expected. Expect allot more in the coming weeks.

Dustin Keller DID NOT PLAY

John Carlson DOWNGRADED
Caught nothing this week. We did not jump on this bandwagon, but expect his numbers to reduce with Engram returning.

Chris Cooley UPGRADED
100+ yards and a TD. Awesome game for Cooley.

Visanthe Shiancoe UPGRADED
Found the end zone on 2 catches. He's a nice TE if you have Vernon Davis.

Tony Scheffler - DOWNGRADED
With Cutler not doing as well, Scheffler's numbers are lagging. He's not the type of guy we like with his inconsistency.

Monday, October 06, 2008

NFL TOUCHDOWN SUNDAY SNIDE REMARKS - WEEK 5

Washington Redskins 23, Philadelphia Eagles 17
Major props to this Redskins team. Playing without several key starters on defense, Washington has gone on the road and flat-out beaten two very good division rivals in Dallas and Philadelphia. Nothing lucky, fortunate or opportunistic about it – just two thorough victories.

Jason Campbell is playing near perfect football in terms of managing the game and making the proper reads. This is allowing Clinton Portis to be the workhorse on offense.

The front line that Portis is running behind is doing a fantastic job, particularly when given help by tight ends and fullbacks in sealing off the edges. Portis is such a patient runner than any good blocking is going to allow Washington to dictate the flow of the game via the ground.

Santana Moss did not catch a pass on Sunday, but he busted his tail blocking. You wouldn’t normally think of Moss as this type of player. His catchless day should not be viewed in an overly negative light; Philly sacrificed a lot of defenders to covering Moss, which is the main reason Chris Cooley had his first 100-yard performance of ’08.

The Eagles offense put together a masterful opening drive and then did virtually nothing after that. On the opening drive, Philly attacked Washington on the edges, where they were vulnerable playing without injured stars Jason Taylor, Marcus Washington and Fred Smoot. But after the opening drive, Brian Westbrook slowed down (a rib injury may have had something to do with it) and Donovan McNabb went into that maddening dink-and-dunk mode that has become a trademark of the Eagles whenever they’re trailing. Watching the Eagles come from behind is often like watching someone use a tablespoon to dig themselves out of a hole.

Pittsburgh Steelers 26, Jacksonville Jaguars 21
Epic game from Big Ben – particularly in the closing minutes when he made play after play under heavy duress.

One can’t help but ask, Where is the Jaguar pass-rush? Weren’t Jacksonville’s top two draft picks supposed to infuse some life up front? The only defensive end playing worth a darn right now is Paul Spicer, the man who was scheduled to be a backup at this point.

The reason Jacksonville stayed in this game was because Pittsburgh did not run the ball often enough in the second and third quarter. Mewelde Moore was extremely impressive when he was able to turn the corner.

Jacksonville’s interior pass defense should be a major concern. Yes, they were without starting safety Reggie Nelson in this game, but this secondary has been getting killed up the middle all season.

When I heard Madden talking about David Garrard’s calves, I giggled. Then when I saw the picture of Garrard’s calves, I gasped.

How far has Max Starks fallen? After being given the franchise tag over the offseason, Starks was unable to recapture the starting right tackle job from Willie Colon. When Kendall Simmons was lost for the year, Pittsburgh chose to start unknown Darnell Stapleton, rather than slide Colon inside and let Starks take over in his place. And when Marvel Smith left this game with cramps, it was Trai Essex who came in ahead of Starks (which was also the case down the stretch last season).

Dallas Cowboys 31, Cincinnati Bengals 22
Terrell Owens’s 67-yard touchdown may have saved Dallas’s season. For one, it put them ahead by two scores against a team they should have been beating by four scores. For two, it gave Owens just enough of the spotlight to override his afternoon of sulky body language. If T.O. doesn’t catch that pass, he likely finishes the day with one reception for 10 yards, and a series of sound bites for ESPN to over blow afterward. And just think what would have happened if Dallas had lost.

How is Cincinnati’s image rebuilding project going? Well…Chris Henry was back on the field in this game, and so did newly signed running back Cedric Benson (who actually looked alright).

Chris Perry has five fumbles in five games. The Bengals probably liked him better when he was getting injured.

Carson Palmer wasn’t looking for Chad Johnson at all in the first half. I’ve never seen a quarterback get so far away from his star receiver. Johnson was at least able to do some damage in the second half, but his disappearance is terribly strange.

I’m almost to the point where I dislike T.J. Houshmandzadeh more than Ocho Cinco. Houshmandzadeh is pretty much as big a head case as Johnson – we just don’t notice because he’s not as funny or charismatic.

Tony Romo needs to improve his leadership. His demeanor isn’t always great, and you rarely see him talking with his offensive teammates on the sideline.

It’s a safe guess that Pacman Jones leads the league in dropped interceptions. He also leads the league in exciting yet unproductive punt returns. Overall, though, Jones is playing well. And his consistency is improving each week.

The Marion Barber-Felix Jones duo could be the best in football this year.

Click here to read all Snide Remarks for Week 5

Saturday, October 04, 2008

Guru Gridiron Report: Week 5 Expert League Matchups Preview

Week 5 Expert League Games

Johnny Archive (2-2) vs. Big Game Fantasy Sports.com (1-3) +5

BGFS is coming off a big first win of the season and looked to build on that momentum with Johnny Archive coming to town. This looks to be a very competitive match up and can go either way. If Johnny's team plays to its potential it should be able to hold off Patrick and his powerful attack armed with Peyton Manning, Lee Evans, and Santonio Holmes. The key match ups in this game are the WRs vs. WRs. This is a must win for BGFS if he looks to pull the upset against the spread. Another volitile key matchup is McNabb vs. Manning. If McNabb stays tight with Manning Johnny gets what he needs. If he beats Manning its all but over.

MATCHUP OF THE WEEK

Xtreme Fantasy Football (4-0) vs. Fantasy Football Starters (3-1) +15

Matchup of the week. Two of the best overall teams in the league clash for best record. Both lead their respective divisions and have had superb season so far. This is going to be a hard one for FFS to pull out against the Xtreme team. He will put up a great fight with Frank Gore, Steve Smith, and the Eagles defense, but in the end Bowser just has too much firepower. The key matchups for this one are Larry Fitzgerald and Greg Jenning vs. Steve Smith and Hines Ward. We expect Mike to take this one by several points, but with Rodgers hurting FFS could get an upset here and close the gap with XFF. The other key matchup is the trench battles of TE, defense, and kicker. Both teams have good defenses, but Xtreme Fantasy Football has the advantage on kicker and tight end with Jason Witten. If FFS can pull a victory in the trenches he can definitely smell an upset.

Owners Box Sports (4-0) vs Fantasy Football Search (2-2) -12

Owners Box Sports is undefeated while FFS suffered an humiliating loss last week to a team starting 4 Raider players! Both teams have some serious players on BYE or injured, but overall the teams are intact for this game. OBS has had some magic n remaining undefeated in a tough league, but his luck will end this week. Fantasy Football Search has some great matchups and over powers OBS in several positions including WRs and RBs. The key mtchups start with Brees vs. Romo. Romo is in line for a monster game and Brees is playing a defense that is somewhat weak against the pass, but Brees is still without some critical targets. Romo has to keep this matchup close and winning it put a dagger in Owner Box Sports heart. Another key matchup is Warrick Dunn vs. Ike Hillard. Both play on the same team, but if the game becomes a semi-shootout as we expect Ike Hillard will see plenty of action and Warrick won't. If Warrick comes up big in this game, OBS will go to 5-0.

Fighting Chance Fantasy (1-3) Vs. Scout Fantasy Football (2-2) +16

Another great matchup for two teams looking to get on a winning track. This game looks real good for Fighting Chance Fantasy with some great match ups for both his runningbacks Marion Barber and Ryan Grant. He also has Brandon Marshall and the Panthers defense at home. SFF does have a few tricks up his sleeve like Brandon Jacobs, the beat up Bears DEF/ST, and a great matchup for Donald Driver. However , it won't be enough. The key matchup here is Hasselbeck Vs. Kitna. This is a must win for Scout Fantasy Football and he has to win my allot. This is a big game for Fighting Chance Fantasy.

Junkyard Jake (2-2) vs. Mock Draft Central (2-2) +8

Another deuces wild matchup and is a doozy! On paper this game looks like it goes to MDC, but this week belongs to Junkyard and the upset. Junkyard Jake will attack with the triple threat of Marshawn Lynch, Matt Forte, and Michael Turner. All of them have great matchups for week 5 and should be able to put up serious points. Two key matchups, Matt Ryan vs. Jason Campbell and Eddie Royal vs. Robert Meachem. We expect Campbell to have a rough week, but if he manages to put up allot of points against Philadelphia and he smokes Ryan, this game could turn the other way. The battle of rookie WRs is pretty even, but JJ needs Royal to pull this one out to secure his win. Either way it's a definite close game.

Pro Fantasy Games (1-3) vs. NFL Fantasy Playbook (1-3) +25

This matchup on paper is a blowout, but after what NFL Fantasy Playbook did to my team last week, anything is possible. The running attack of Pro Fantasy Games will be too much for NFLFP along with the trench points. The key matchups here would be Delhomme vs. Cassel. We think Delhomme has the edge here, but Cassel can blowup and if he does lookout for another upset special. Another matchup is the defenses, Pittsburgh vs. Bills. Again, on paper this is the advantage of Pittsburgh, but stranger things have happened and if NFLFP can win this matchup he can start thinking, UPSET.

Fantasy Sports Zone (1-3) vs. Nooffseason.com (2-2) +6

This will be a fun game to watch. Fantasy Sports Zone has a clear advantage, but there are too many variables that can flip in favor of No Off Season. The first key matchup is the lovable duo of Philip Rivers vs. Jay Cutler. Cutler should get the better end of this matchup and needs too. If he blows out Rivers and upset can happen. If Rivers pulls the upset, FSZ has a secure win. The other key matchup is Titans DEF vs. Ravens DEF. These teams are playing each other and becaue the Ravens are at home its nearly even. This is a matchup NOS needs to win and win somewhat big. It can turn this game upside down with a big win. Again, this match up should remain close and no winner declared until very late.

Friday, October 03, 2008

The Guru Gridiron Report: Week 5 Bench/Start WRs & TEs

Unlike last week there are only four teams on the BYE this week and they are relatively ineffective teams for fantasy football. Cleveland Browns, St. Louis Rams, Oakland Raiders, and New York Jets are on BYE in week 5. There should be plenty of points to pass around this week. Lots of managers loss last week probably because of the sheer volume of players on the BYE combined with some star players just not performing. Week 5 looks allot better.

WIDE RECEIVERS YOU MUST START
We really like Donald Driver this week if Aaron Rodgers plays. Rodgers has an injured shoulder and that will make him throw shorter routes to Driver. Steve Smith should have his second straight strong week. Calvin Johnson is a great match up against the Bears. Kitna should be able to get the ball to him often. We all know to start Brandon Marshall, but also start Eddie Royal. He's do for a score and should get it. Desean Jackson will have a big game against Washington.

Others: Terrell Owens, Larry Fitzgerald, Vincent Jackson, Chris Chambers, Andre Johnson, Dwayne Bowe, Donald Driver, Lee Evans

TIGHT ENDS YOU MUST START

Jason Witten, Antonio Gates, Bo Scaife, Chris Cooley, Tony Scheffler, Tony Gonzalez, John Carleson

Other Wide Receivers To Consider Starting With Some Risk
Marvin Harrison should get some good activity this week and find the end zone. We feel the same about Randy Moss and Wes Welker and Matt Cassel will hook up with Moss at least once in the end zone. Bobby Engram will be back playing for Seattle and should get a whole tom of looks from Matt Hasselbeck. In that same game, with Buress suspended look for Amani Toomer to pick up the slack. Start Robert Meachem and Lance Moore. Both should let allot of looks on Monday night.
Others: Matt Jones, Derrick Mason, Santonio Holmes, Bryant Johnson, Austin Miles, Roy Williams, Muhsin Muhammad , Chad Johnson, T.J. Houshmandzadeh

Other Tight Ends To Consider Starting With Some Risk

Dante Rosario, Vernon Davis, Mercedes Lewis, Robert Royal

Please Bench These Wide Receivers
Bench Justin Gage against Baltimore. Collins will be running for his life allot of that game. Santana Moss will be shutdown by Philly's defense. He will have a bad game, bench him.
Others: Patrick Crayton, David Patten, Isaac Bruce, Dante Stallworth, Joey Galloway, Dane Looker, DJ Hackett

Please Bench These Tight Ends

Todd Heap, Alge Crumpler, Donald Lee.

Sleeper Wide Receivers
Look for Steve Smith of the NY GIants to come in for Plaxico and have a nice 86 yard game and a TD. We also like Antonio Bryant in Denver and Brandon Lloyd agianst the Detroit Lions.

Good luck. Next are our Defenses!

The True Guru

Thursday, October 02, 2008

The Guru Gridiron Report: Week 5 Bench/Start Defenses

DEFENSES AND YOU MUST START
Lets start with the Tennessee Vs Baltimore match up. Start both, this will be a low scoring game. Bet on Green Bay's defense to come out playing hard on Sunday, start them. San Diego has a very favorable match up against Miami, but they will give up some points. We like Philadelphia' s defense against Washington. We think they match up well and Philly is at home. Finally, Jacksonville against a beat up Pittsburgh Offense. You have to start them. Others: Chicago, Dallas, Buffalo, Pittsburgh, San Francisco

Other DEFENSES To Consider Starting With Some Risk
There are some risky defenses. We like the Cardinals at home this week to put up some numbers. The Carolina defense should be able to handle Atlanta fairly well, and score some solid defensive points. Finally, we do like Seattle, but it is a very risky start. New York is without Burress and Seattle can exploit that by stopping the run with single coverage. Consider them if you are desperate.

Others: Detroit, New England, NY Giants

Please Bench These DEFENSES

Cincinnati, Atlanta, Minnesota, Indianapolis, Washington

Sleeper Wide Defenses

We have two sleeper defenses for you to consider. Houston is playing its first home game against the struggling Colts. We think that Houston defense will play a solid game, putting pressure on Manning and possibly scoring a TD. They will give up points, but should score plenty. New Orleans is at home against the also struggling Minnesota Vikings. We think this is a great match up for the New Orleans defense and they can also score on defense and special teams.

The True Guru

The Guru Gridiron Report: Week 5 Bench/Start Runningbacks

RUNNINGBACKS YOU MUST START
Week5 produces a huge number of must start runningbacks. We love Jonathan Stewart this week against KC. Larry Johnson should also continue his comeback tour with another solid performance against the Panthers. We also like Steve Slaton against Indianapolis. If he can't run, he will catch. Look fro Reggie Bush to find the end zone, and maybe twice against Minnesota in his home field.

Others: Frank Gore, LaDainian Tomlinson, Brian Westbrook (watch injury status), Marion Barber, Adrian Peterson, Joesph Addai

Other Runningbacks To Consider Starting With Some Risk
There are some risky starts that could provide some serious points for fantasy teams this week. We like Ryan Grant against Atlanta. As we predicted he was going to have a let down season, but with Rodgers hurting they will lean on him throughout the game and he should be able to produce. We also think Michael Turner should be able to turn in a great performance this week. Ronnie Brown will be all over the field against San Diego, start him. Watch Rudi Johnson run. Harris has been suspended by the Bears, so watch for Johnson to exploit the middle of the field without Tommy Harris.

Others: Brandon Jacobs, Marshawn Lynch, DeAngelo Williams

Please Bench These Runningbacks
Bench Pittsburgh RBs. Also, we do not like Chris Perry against Dallas. He may get a short yard carry, but this will be a blowout on the Dallas side and the Bengals won't run much. Ricky Williams should see limited action so bench him and Clinton Portis will be taken out of the game by Philly's defense forcing Campbell to make plays.

Others: Julius Jones, Edgerrin James, Maurice Jones-Drew

Sleeper Runningbacks
Our two sleepers this week are Matt Forte and Laurence Maroney. Matt Forte is not much of a stretch, but we think he can have a big game controlling the clock against Detroit. Laurence Maroney is coming off his injury and looks healthy. The Patriots need to run the ball and this will be Laurence Maroney's last chance at that if he fails.

Good luck. Next are our Wide Receivers and Tight Ends!

The True Guru

The Guru Gridiron Report: Week 5 Bench/Start Quarterbacks

QUARTERBACKS YOU MUST START
Week 5 has several great match ups that quarterbacks should be able to dominate in. We like Jake Delhomme this week at home against KC. KC has been solid against the pass, but they are on the road. Both Manning brothers, Eli and Peyton should have big days. Big brother Peyton Manning will feast on Houston at home while Eli Manning will give Seattle all they can handle in New York. The match up of Denver QBs will also provide us with a shootout. Jay Cutler over matches Tampa Bay's Tampa 2 defense and with that Brian Griese will be throwing allot (60+) and should have success against Denver's defense.

Others: Tony Romo, Kurt Warner, Philip Rivers, Drew Brees

Other Quarterbacks To Consider Starting With Some Risk
There is some risk to worry about this week with some QBs. Aaron Rodgers would be a solid start this week against Atlanta, but because of his shoulder injury his start is up in the air. We like Matt Schaub as well this week as well. We would make him a must start, but he hasn't had but 1 good game this season so far, so let's see 2 in a row. We think he'll do great in week 5. Jason Campbell and Donovan McNabb faceoff in Philly. We don't like either quarterback in this east division match up. However, both should pass plenty and both will find limited success. Finally Matt Cassel and J.T. O'Sullivan face off in San Francisco and this game should be a good one. Cassel will throw 1-2 TDs and finally get the Patriots offense going. Don't expect a huge game from J.T. O'Sullivan, but he should get 1-2 TDs himself.
Others: Trent Edwards, Kyle Orton

Please Bench These Quarterbacks
Bench Kerry Collins against the vaunted Baltimore Raven defense. We also do not like Matt Ryan against Green Bay's defense, however if Rodgers doesn't play that could upgrade Ryan's points because of the fact he'll touch the ball more and field position could be better.
Others: Jon Kitna, Damon Huard

Sleeper Quarterbacks
We have two sleepers this week. They are a stretch, but they are good ones. Look at Chad Pennington against San Diego. Rivers should score easily and quickly and that will force Miami to pass a little more. Look for Pennington to throw 2 TDs for 200 yards. The other is Matt Hasselbeck. He's getting Bobby Engram back and he will get caught up in a high scoring affair with the Giants defense. He will be under pressure all game, but we do think he will get 2 TDs and 250 yards.

Good luck. Next are our Runningbacks!

The True Guru

Wednesday, October 01, 2008

Fighting Chance Fantasy's On The Radar--Week 5

The “On The Radar” column isn’t one that you should necessarily run out and grab these players, although in some cases they could be valuable. These are players that have been doing something over the past week or two that warrant you keeping your eye on them for covering bye weeks or injuries, or if they put a few good weeks together.

Steve Breaston, WR, Arizona Cardinals. For years, Bryant Johnson was the third receiver in the Arizona system, and was always a borderline fantasy player. People would pick him up during bye weeks, but he was never a guy who stuck on anyone’s team. Now that he is off to San Francisco, Steve Breaston has taken over this role. Breaston had a nine catch, 122 yard game against the Jets on Sunday, but don’t let those inflated numbers fool you. The Jets scored 56 points and the Cardinals were in catchup mode very early in the game. However, with the injury at the end of the game to Anquan Boldin, and the uncertainty of his status for this week, Breaston is a guy that you should definitely keep an eye on if you have some byes coming up this week.

Arnaz Battle, WR, San Francisco 49ers. A starter for the past two seasons, Battle was unable to take advantage of the opportunity to show himself to be a starter in this league. Of course, he did have Alex Smith and Trent Dilfer throwing the ball, so we will give him the benefit of the doubt. The Niners passing game has been very tough to figure. One week Bryant Johnson has a good game, the next week it is Isaac Bruce is the main target, etc. Last week, it was Battle who caught seven passes for 120 yards. The way the Mike Martz offense spreads the ball around, I don’t think any 49ers receiver will become a first or second receiver on your fantasy teams. But watch what Battle does over the next couple of games, as it is still up in the air who will get the majority of looks after Frank Gore.

Brandon Jackson, RB, Green Bay Packers. This one is more of a possible projection for the future. After being injured through much of the preseason, Ryan Grant still hasn’t looked ANYTHING like the guy that turned into a fantasy hall of famer in the last ten weeks of 2007. I don’t know how much longer the Packers will continue to give him the majority of the carries, but as of now he is still getting them. Just get yourself familiar with their first round pick from last season, Brandon Jackson, who was supposed to be the starter last year but was unable to show any production. He certainly hasn’t done anything more this year to prove he is worth the carries, outside of a decent game against the Lions (and we all know that isn’t saying much of anything). Grant is still the every down back, but if he doesn’t step it up soon, perhaps the Pack will give Jackson a try.

Zach Miller, TE, Oakland Raiders. This guy you should have known from the beginning of the year, but up until Week 4, there was no reason to pay attention to him. Miller had just six catches for under 60 yards through three weeks, but broke out with five grabs for 95 yards last week.
click here for the rest!

NFL TOUCHDOWN POWER RANKINGS WEEK 5

32. St. Louis Rams (0-4)
Considering the mess he has to clean up, you can argue that Jim Haslett is the highest paid janitor in America.
31. Detroit Lions (0-3)
Is it too early to start thinking about the ’09 draft?
30. Cincinnati Bengals (0-4)
Remember that receiver they used to have?
29. Oakland Raiders (1-3)
Al Davis held a press conference to confirm that he is indeed senile.
28. Kansas City Chiefs (1-3)
So now you decide to run the ball?
27. Cleveland Browns (1-3)
Can’t help but be pissed at this team for the four primetime games they’re destined to ruin this season.
26. Houston Texans (0-3)
Facing the Colts is not exactly the best way to get off the snide.
25. Miami Dolphins (1-2)
They’re starting to establish an identity in South Beach.
24. San Francisco 49ers (2-2)
Just a matter of time until people realize Mike Martz’s system doesn’t work here.
23. Atlanta Falcons (2-2)
Credit Mike Smith for having his team well-prepared in all four games thus far.
22. Arizona Cardinals (2-2)
Lost in a real-life Madden video game against the Jets last week. They have a lot of bouncing back to do.
21. Seattle Seahawks (1-2)
Best thing this team has going for it right now: San Francisco, Arizona and St. Louis.
20. Minnesota Vikings (1-3)
Record is bad, but fortunately for them, so is their division.
19. New York Jets (2-2)
Well, it looks like they got that whole “Brett Favre and the system” thing figured out.
18. New Orleans Saints (2-2)
Just treading water until Marques Colston and Jeremy Shockey get back.
17. Baltimore Ravens (2-1)
Joe Flacco looks better than expected early on, but there’s still not enough offense here.
16. Jacksonville Jaguars (2-2)
A win against Pittsburg on national television would generate huge momentum.
15. Green Bay Packers (2-2)
Are teams starting to figure out Aaron Rodgers?
14. San Diego Chargers (2-2)
Ted Cottrell’s unit needs to pick it up. Now!
13. Pittsburgh Steelers (2-2)
Offensive line is a major concern.
12. Denver Broncos (3-1)
Half of this team looks great. Can you guess which half doesn’t?
11. New England Patriots (2-1)
They’re allowed one bad loss every now and then. Bill Belichick is going to have to do the best work of his career from here on out.
10. Indianapolis Colts (1-2)
Colts ranked in the top 10? Crazy right? Not when you consider that the rest of the AFC is down, and the rest of the AFC does not have Peyton Manning.
9. Chicago Bears (2-2)
The defense is back to looking like the Super Bowl unit it was a few years ago.
8. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (3-1)
Monte Kiffin once again has that defense playing at an extremely high level. He might be the most underrated assistant coach in football.
7. Washington Redskins (3-1)
Another divisional win this week and you’ll see them ranked in the top four.
6. Philadelphia Eagles (2-2)
Just wait until Brian Westbrook, Kevin Curtis, Shawn Andrews and L.J. Smith get healthy.
5. Buffalo Bills (4-0)
They’re beating teams they’re supposed to beat. That’s the sign of a good team.
4. Carolina Panthers (3-1)
They’ll be the NFL’s dark horse all season.
3. Tennessee Titans (4-0)
An absolutely stifling defense – and it’s full of players that this team developed from scratch.
2. Dallas Cowboys (3-1)
If it were about being fair, then the Redskins would be ranked in this spot. But it’s about being right. In the grander scheme of things, Dallas is better than Washington.
1. New York Giants (3-0)
Defending Super Bowl champs, undefeated and playing in football’s toughest division.

Friday, October 31, 2008

The Guru Gridiron Report: Week 9 Bench/Start Defenses

Thursday, October 30, 2008

NFL Teams Policing Themselves

The Guru Gridiron Report: Week 9 Bench/Start WRs & TEs

The Guru Gridiron Report: Week 9 Bench/Start Runningbacks

The Guru Gridiron Report: Week 9 Bench/Start Quarterbacks

Tuesday, October 28, 2008

The Guru Gridiron Report: The True Guru Goes 3-3 In a Smash Mouth Week!

Monday, October 27, 2008

The Guru Gridiron Report: Week 8 Review & Recap

We apologize For Calling Terrible Defenses In Week 7

NFL TOUCHDOWN SUNDAY SNIDE REMARKS - WEEK 8

Saturday, October 25, 2008

BILL BELICHICK'S LATEST MIDDLE FINGER

Friday, October 24, 2008

The Guru Gridiron Report: Week 8 Bench/Start Defenses

The Guru Gridiron Report: Week 8 Bench/Start WRs & TEs

Thursday, October 23, 2008

The Guru Gridiron Report: Week 8 Bench/Start Runningbacks

The Guru Gridiron Report: Week 8 Bench/Start Quarterbacks

Wednesday, October 22, 2008

Quarterbacks

Running Backs

The Guru Gridiron Report: The True Guru Goes 4-2 again

The True Guru Caught The Flu

Sunday, October 19, 2008

Who Is The Better Fantasy Team, Most Points Or League Champion?

Friday, October 17, 2008

The Guru Gridiron Report: Week 7 Bench/Start Defenses

Thursday, October 16, 2008

The Guru Gridiron Report: Week 7 Bench/Start WRs & TEs

Shaun Alexander Signs with The Washington Redskins

The Guru Gridiron Report: Week 7 Bench/Start Runningbacks

The Guru Gridiron Report: Week 7 Bench/Start Quarterbacks

Wednesday, October 15, 2008

Quarterbacks

Running Backs

Tuesday, October 14, 2008

The Guru Gridiron Report: The True Guru Gets Big Wins 4-2

Fantasy Football Search Introduces its Fantasy Value Rating System (FVR)

The Guru Gridiron Report: Week 6 Review & Recap

Monday, October 13, 2008

Romo Could Miss Up To 4 Weeks with Broken Pinky

NFL TOUCHDOWN SUNDAY SNIDE REMARKS WEEK 6

Friday, October 10, 2008

Guru Gridiron Report: Week 6 Expert League Matchups Preview

The Guru Gridiron Report: Week 6 Bench/Start Defenses

NFL TOP FIVE OFFENSIVE PLAYERS AT EACH POSITION

Thursday, October 09, 2008

The Guru Gridiron Report: Week 6 Bench/Start WRs & TEs

The Guru Gridiron Report: Week 6 Bench/Start Runningbacks

The Guru Gridiron Report: Week 6 Bench/Start Quarterbacks

Wednesday, October 08, 2008

Most enticing NFL trade bait

Quarterbacks

Running Backs

Tuesday, October 07, 2008

The Guru Gridiron Report: The True Guru Gets Back To Winning 5-1

The Guru Gridiron Report: Week 5 Review & Recap

Monday, October 06, 2008

NFL TOUCHDOWN SUNDAY SNIDE REMARKS - WEEK 5

Saturday, October 04, 2008

Guru Gridiron Report: Week 5 Expert League Matchups Preview

Friday, October 03, 2008

The Guru Gridiron Report: Week 5 Bench/Start WRs & TEs

Thursday, October 02, 2008

The Guru Gridiron Report: Week 5 Bench/Start Defenses

The Guru Gridiron Report: Week 5 Bench/Start Runningbacks

The Guru Gridiron Report: Week 5 Bench/Start Quarterbacks

Wednesday, October 01, 2008

NFL TOUCHDOWN POWER RANKINGS WEEK 5

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