The third week solidified some suspicions. Fred Jackson is a premier back. Chris Johnson and DeAngelo Williams were better off broke. And child please, Ochocino is done.
It also affirms Michael Vick’s fearless play has its consequences. A little hamstring concern should be wrapped in a giant red flag. And the bearded Buffalo gunslinger is for real.
So many answers. But still so many questions! As you scour the waiver wire and set your lineups this week, here are a few guys I’m digging….
I Told You So
Denarius Moore – Last week, I told you to claim him. 57 yards, 1 TD. This week’s matchup is sneaky good. New England is awful against the pass. Still available in 53 percent of Yahoo leagues.
Scott Chandler – Him too. And he scored. Again. That’s four TDs in three weeks. Available in 43 percent of Yahoo leagues.
Daniel Thomas – And him too. 95 rushing yards, 27 receiving yards, 1 TD. Projected lead back in Miami over the pizza guy. Available in 32 percent of Yahoo leagues.
Smart Pickups (please heed my advice this time)
Nate Washington – The season-ending knee injury to Kenny Britt brings opportunity to Washington, who had eight receptions for 92 yards. The new No. 1 wideout fills your No. 2 slot. Start him with confidence. Especially with Hasselbeck behind center. Available in 62 percent of Yahoo leagues.
Torrey Smith – Who knew Baltimore passed the ball? Three touchdowns is noteworthy, but keep in mind Lee Evans didn’t play. Smith is a good pickup, but only play him if Evans sits. Available in 81 percent of Yahoo leagues.
Bernard Scott – Grab the Cincy backup and prepare to start him during Cedric Benson’s little staycation. Prepare for Scott to run a lot. I like him as a No. 2 option. Available in 86 percent of Yahoo leagues.
Victor Cruuuuuuuuuz – I couldn’t help myself. Astros fans know why. OK, I have no idea who this guy is. Maybe a superhero who landed in NY just to help Eli Manning’s wishes come true. With his special powers, he caught three passes for 110 yards and two touchdowns. Cruz is a viable option this weekend in Arizona; a good flex or WR3 option. Available in 88 percent of Yahoo leagues.
Can’t get enough of Erin Skelley? Listen to her every Friday and Sunday morning on SportsRadio 610. Follow her on Twitter.
Thursday, September 29, 2011
Thursday, September 22, 2011
Week 3 Fantasy Picks
The Bills and Lions are both 2-0. That should say it all. It’s hard to make predictions – or at least accurate ones – when the league’s talent is topsy-turvy. I will continue to remind you that my Bills pre-season expectations were on target, and I’ll conveniently ignore that I thought Ochocinco would be fantasy relevant. In my defense, anyone plucking receptions from Tom Brady should be ownable. I was wrong.
Here are this week’s smart picks and plays…
Smart Pickups
Dexter McCluster and Thomas Jones – Let’s start with the obvious – Jamaal Charles’ backups. While both have increased value and worth claiming, McCluster offers a bonus – wide receiver eligibility. He’s a PPR dream. Remember, they’ll share the load, but that’s becoming the norm. They’re available in 53 and 52 percent of Yahoo leagues respectively.
Daniel Thomas – We saw this coming. Reggie Bush is not an every-down back. Thomas ruffled the Texans for 107 yards, and is projected to take the starting job. Available in 37 percent of Yahoo leagues.
Eric Decker – I realize it’s only week 2. Still, in two weeks, Decker is outplaying his peers who have also played two weeks. While his output probably will not sustain at this level, he has shown potential. And he’s a good pickup to hold on your bench. Have him ready if Brandon Lloyd sits this week. Available in 44 percent of Yahoo leagues.
Scott Chandler –Three TDs in two weeks from this tight end. Wait, what’s that I hear? Who is he? He plays for the 2-0 Bills. Available in 58 percent of Yahoo leagues. If he’s not available, grab whatever Bills you see.
Denarius Moore – Raiders are ailing at WR. Check out this speedy weapon who caught five catches for 146 yards. Available in 58 percent of Yahoo leagues.
Smart Plays
A.J. Green – The San Francisco matchup this week makes Green a must-start. In two weeks, Green has 165 yards and two TDs, and now he faces a Candyland pass defense that’s surrendering the most fantasy points to wide receivers. Let it fly, Dalton!
Fred Jackson – Another Bill. Another surprise. The league’s rushing leader faces a Patriots defense that yields the tenth most fantasy points to running backs.
Chris Johnson – Seriously, Chris, the Titans signed you for this garbage? You play Denver this week. I know Javon will get more touches, but if you can’t shine in this game…
Erin Skelley joins SportsRadio 610 every football season with riveting fantasy football knowledge. You can hear her on Fridays and Sundays. Follow her on twitter.
Here are this week’s smart picks and plays…
Smart Pickups
Dexter McCluster and Thomas Jones – Let’s start with the obvious – Jamaal Charles’ backups. While both have increased value and worth claiming, McCluster offers a bonus – wide receiver eligibility. He’s a PPR dream. Remember, they’ll share the load, but that’s becoming the norm. They’re available in 53 and 52 percent of Yahoo leagues respectively.
Daniel Thomas – We saw this coming. Reggie Bush is not an every-down back. Thomas ruffled the Texans for 107 yards, and is projected to take the starting job. Available in 37 percent of Yahoo leagues.
Eric Decker – I realize it’s only week 2. Still, in two weeks, Decker is outplaying his peers who have also played two weeks. While his output probably will not sustain at this level, he has shown potential. And he’s a good pickup to hold on your bench. Have him ready if Brandon Lloyd sits this week. Available in 44 percent of Yahoo leagues.
Scott Chandler –Three TDs in two weeks from this tight end. Wait, what’s that I hear? Who is he? He plays for the 2-0 Bills. Available in 58 percent of Yahoo leagues. If he’s not available, grab whatever Bills you see.
Denarius Moore – Raiders are ailing at WR. Check out this speedy weapon who caught five catches for 146 yards. Available in 58 percent of Yahoo leagues.
Smart Plays
A.J. Green – The San Francisco matchup this week makes Green a must-start. In two weeks, Green has 165 yards and two TDs, and now he faces a Candyland pass defense that’s surrendering the most fantasy points to wide receivers. Let it fly, Dalton!
Fred Jackson – Another Bill. Another surprise. The league’s rushing leader faces a Patriots defense that yields the tenth most fantasy points to running backs.
Chris Johnson – Seriously, Chris, the Titans signed you for this garbage? You play Denver this week. I know Javon will get more touches, but if you can’t shine in this game…
Erin Skelley joins SportsRadio 610 every football season with riveting fantasy football knowledge. You can hear her on Fridays and Sundays. Follow her on twitter.
Thursday, September 15, 2011
Week 2 Fantasy Picks
As a fantasy analyst (ooh, analyst sounds smart), part of my job is to boast about how right I am. It’s so annoying, I know that. I listen to sportswriters and other fantasy media, and I roll my eyes with every “I told you so.” But I want to earn your trust and respect. Therefore, I must resort to this dreadful tactic. So here it goes. I told you to start your Bills. And I was right. Who listened to me? Yeah, that’s what I thought.
OK, I’m done bragging. Here are this week’s smart picks and plays…
Smart Pickups
Robert Meachem – Last week, the Saints wideout gave a solid performance with five catches for 70 yards and a TD. Colston’s injury provides even more opportunity to Meachem and his owners. Add to that the scrumptious matchup of the Bears’ silly pass defense, and Meachem is a must-start. Still available in 41 percent of Yahoo leagues.
Cadillac Williams – Steven Jackson leaving the game early shouldn’t be much of a surprise as he did sit much of the pre-season. But Cadillac’s ability to run…for 140 yards? That’s surprising. And against the dreamy Eagles too. Get him and start him. Available in 77 percent of Yahoo leagues.
Dustin Keller – Check out the wire for Keller. Solid debut with five catches for 61 yards. Looks to be an important part of the Jets offense. Available in 33 percent of Yahoo leagues.
Jacoby Jones – Jones will fill in for the injured Kevin Walter. Should enjoy a weak passing game the way Brady’s artillery did. Available in 77 percent of Yahoo leagues.
Smart Plays
Tim Hightower – Mustered 72 yards and a TD against the Giants. Playing former team Arizona this week. Not so much counting on a “stick it to ‘em” attitude, but rather their run defense is terrible.
Dez Bryant – So talented. So unpredictable. Predictably, a Dallas Cowboy. I love his matchup against San Fran this week.
Cam Newton – It was the Cardinals. Green Bay should be a tougher matchup. Deep leagues and two-QB formats only.
Peyton Hillis – I know he was mostly overlooked last Sunday, but the Browns will run more this week. Wouldn’t you if you played the Colts?
Mario Manningham – If Nicks doesn’t play, he becomes a must-start. Otherwise, still a really good No. 2 play.
Owen Daniels – While not utilized to his potential last week, the Texans play Miami this Sunday. Did you see the Patriots tight ends Monday night?
Erin Skelley joins SportsRadio 610 every football season with riveting fantasy football knowledge. Hear her on Fridays and Sundays. Follow her on twitter.
OK, I’m done bragging. Here are this week’s smart picks and plays…
Smart Pickups
Robert Meachem – Last week, the Saints wideout gave a solid performance with five catches for 70 yards and a TD. Colston’s injury provides even more opportunity to Meachem and his owners. Add to that the scrumptious matchup of the Bears’ silly pass defense, and Meachem is a must-start. Still available in 41 percent of Yahoo leagues.
Cadillac Williams – Steven Jackson leaving the game early shouldn’t be much of a surprise as he did sit much of the pre-season. But Cadillac’s ability to run…for 140 yards? That’s surprising. And against the dreamy Eagles too. Get him and start him. Available in 77 percent of Yahoo leagues.
Dustin Keller – Check out the wire for Keller. Solid debut with five catches for 61 yards. Looks to be an important part of the Jets offense. Available in 33 percent of Yahoo leagues.
Jacoby Jones – Jones will fill in for the injured Kevin Walter. Should enjoy a weak passing game the way Brady’s artillery did. Available in 77 percent of Yahoo leagues.
Smart Plays
Tim Hightower – Mustered 72 yards and a TD against the Giants. Playing former team Arizona this week. Not so much counting on a “stick it to ‘em” attitude, but rather their run defense is terrible.
Dez Bryant – So talented. So unpredictable. Predictably, a Dallas Cowboy. I love his matchup against San Fran this week.
Cam Newton – It was the Cardinals. Green Bay should be a tougher matchup. Deep leagues and two-QB formats only.
Peyton Hillis – I know he was mostly overlooked last Sunday, but the Browns will run more this week. Wouldn’t you if you played the Colts?
Mario Manningham – If Nicks doesn’t play, he becomes a must-start. Otherwise, still a really good No. 2 play.
Owen Daniels – While not utilized to his potential last week, the Texans play Miami this Sunday. Did you see the Patriots tight ends Monday night?
Erin Skelley joins SportsRadio 610 every football season with riveting fantasy football knowledge. Hear her on Fridays and Sundays. Follow her on twitter.
Friday, September 9, 2011
10 Questions for Week 1
The countdown to draft day and opening week is always full of mayhem and drama. I prepare for my own drafts (and my blog). And then of course, I’m the good pal who plans my friends’ drafts too. I get silly little texts like: “I’m in a snake draft, whatever that means.” And no, that wasn’t from my mom. But only because she can’t text.
As you gear up for week 1, here are a few key questions:
Can inferior drafters find redemption? So you have David Garrard at the helm and you drafted the wrong Mike Williams, no problem. Just because you stunk up the draft doesn’t mean you’re out of it. With thoughtful, diligent waiver watching, you can revive your team.
Which rookie wide receiver should I own? Antonio Brown is my favorite. The rookie wideout is no longer a secret after an outstanding camp. Currently slotted as the Steelers’ No. 3 WR, Brown has the potential to become the No. 2 with Ward going gray. If he isn’t already taken, go get him.
Which rookie running back will shine? Front runner Mark Ingram, who has the early nod, will get his share of carries in New Orleans. He looks good, but really good compared to Miami’s Daniel Thomas who is struggling. Does this mean Reggie Bush is an every-down back? Don’t get carried away.
Why am I loving St. Louis? Sam Bradford. Breakout year for Sam.
And Buffalo? Really? Yes, really. I’m loving Buffalo. I can’t believe I just wrote that. The normally ho-hum team has fantasy potential. At RB, Fred Jackson may be uninteresting, but he’ll get 15-20 carries a game. While he’ll split carries with Spiller, Freddie should have the advantage… at least for the first six weeks. And you can expect another 1,000 yards from Steve Johnson. High marks for the guy throwing the ball too.
Why are you vomiting? That’s because you drafted both Arian Foster AND Peyton Manning. I pity you. By now, you have a QB replacement other than Kerry Collins, I hope. If not, take a look at Orton and Sanchez, who are available in 30 percent of Yahoo leagues. At RB, you can find relief with McGahee, Tate and Spiller. Again, my apologies.
Will Peyton Hillis repeat? He looked good at camp, I keep telling myself. But I also have his injury history filed away. He’s older and more brittle. He’s a good No. 2 back, but he won’t earn a Madden cover this year. I’m watching Montario Hardesty, given Peyton’s Humpty-Dumpty-ness and Brandon Jackson’s turf toe.
Will Wade Phillips make a difference? If you followed the Texans camp, you know the answer appears to be yes. But does that make Houston fantasy-worthy? There are still 12 teams I like better, so no. At least, not now. But keep your eye on them during the bye weeks. They play Tennessee and Oakland, so if you’re defense is on a vacation, they could be a nice plug-n-play.
Are you doomed? – If Peterson goes scoreless or Brady throws three picks, remind yourself it’s only week one. Settle down. Resist the urge to dump your team or throw your iPhone.
How do you get more random bits of fantasy wisdom? Follow me on Twitter.
Erin Skelley joins SportsRadio 610 every football season. Listen to her on Fridays and Sundays.
As you gear up for week 1, here are a few key questions:
Can inferior drafters find redemption? So you have David Garrard at the helm and you drafted the wrong Mike Williams, no problem. Just because you stunk up the draft doesn’t mean you’re out of it. With thoughtful, diligent waiver watching, you can revive your team.
Which rookie wide receiver should I own? Antonio Brown is my favorite. The rookie wideout is no longer a secret after an outstanding camp. Currently slotted as the Steelers’ No. 3 WR, Brown has the potential to become the No. 2 with Ward going gray. If he isn’t already taken, go get him.
Which rookie running back will shine? Front runner Mark Ingram, who has the early nod, will get his share of carries in New Orleans. He looks good, but really good compared to Miami’s Daniel Thomas who is struggling. Does this mean Reggie Bush is an every-down back? Don’t get carried away.
Why am I loving St. Louis? Sam Bradford. Breakout year for Sam.
And Buffalo? Really? Yes, really. I’m loving Buffalo. I can’t believe I just wrote that. The normally ho-hum team has fantasy potential. At RB, Fred Jackson may be uninteresting, but he’ll get 15-20 carries a game. While he’ll split carries with Spiller, Freddie should have the advantage… at least for the first six weeks. And you can expect another 1,000 yards from Steve Johnson. High marks for the guy throwing the ball too.
Why are you vomiting? That’s because you drafted both Arian Foster AND Peyton Manning. I pity you. By now, you have a QB replacement other than Kerry Collins, I hope. If not, take a look at Orton and Sanchez, who are available in 30 percent of Yahoo leagues. At RB, you can find relief with McGahee, Tate and Spiller. Again, my apologies.
Will Peyton Hillis repeat? He looked good at camp, I keep telling myself. But I also have his injury history filed away. He’s older and more brittle. He’s a good No. 2 back, but he won’t earn a Madden cover this year. I’m watching Montario Hardesty, given Peyton’s Humpty-Dumpty-ness and Brandon Jackson’s turf toe.
Will Wade Phillips make a difference? If you followed the Texans camp, you know the answer appears to be yes. But does that make Houston fantasy-worthy? There are still 12 teams I like better, so no. At least, not now. But keep your eye on them during the bye weeks. They play Tennessee and Oakland, so if you’re defense is on a vacation, they could be a nice plug-n-play.
Are you doomed? – If Peterson goes scoreless or Brady throws three picks, remind yourself it’s only week one. Settle down. Resist the urge to dump your team or throw your iPhone.
How do you get more random bits of fantasy wisdom? Follow me on Twitter.
Erin Skelley joins SportsRadio 610 every football season. Listen to her on Fridays and Sundays.
Friday, September 2, 2011
What To Do With Arian
I love Arian Foster. But he doesn’t love me. I’m one of those fantasy types who live vicariously through professional football players. Or rather through the stats of professional football players.
And I see why that’s annoying. I annoy myself with my mental stat tracker. Arian’s dismissal of my meaningless little hobby-turned-obsession is understanding. And the fact that Arian doesn’t share the same sense of enthusiasm for Team Lil Bow Wow is also noted.
For the record, I never root for an injury. Not even turf toe. I just root for slippery fingers and wildly errant throws into the arms of a defender for a touchdown. Come on, Arian, that’s 8 points.
Hamstrung With Questions?
If you have Arian, don’t panic. No need to trade him. But do make sure you have a deep bench at running back. This way, you take advantage of his enormous potential, but you have a safety net if his hammy gets a little strung out. Of course, Ben Tate is a perfect backup option.
Still nervous? Look, there is no perfect running back. Ray Rice can play every game, but Ricky Williams will steal some scores. Jamaal Charles has the same handcuff in Thomas Jones. And Cedric Benson has a completely different kind of handcuff.
My point is, it’s OK to take a little chance on someone with Foster’s talent. Just make sure you’re prepared. Same goes for other positions. If you draft Michael Vick, you better have a backup like Bradford or Flacco. Vick has such an aggressive style, that he poses more of an injury risk.
If you haven’t drafted yet, Foster remains a viable No. 2 draft pick. This doesn’t lower him on my list. I had him second, behind Peterson anyway. Again, just hedge your pick and get Tate or his likeness.
In the meantime, go tweet Arian some love.
Erin Skelley joins SportsRadio 610 every football season with riveting fantasy knowledge. Follow her on Twitter.
And I see why that’s annoying. I annoy myself with my mental stat tracker. Arian’s dismissal of my meaningless little hobby-turned-obsession is understanding. And the fact that Arian doesn’t share the same sense of enthusiasm for Team Lil Bow Wow is also noted.
For the record, I never root for an injury. Not even turf toe. I just root for slippery fingers and wildly errant throws into the arms of a defender for a touchdown. Come on, Arian, that’s 8 points.
Hamstrung With Questions?
If you have Arian, don’t panic. No need to trade him. But do make sure you have a deep bench at running back. This way, you take advantage of his enormous potential, but you have a safety net if his hammy gets a little strung out. Of course, Ben Tate is a perfect backup option.
Still nervous? Look, there is no perfect running back. Ray Rice can play every game, but Ricky Williams will steal some scores. Jamaal Charles has the same handcuff in Thomas Jones. And Cedric Benson has a completely different kind of handcuff.
My point is, it’s OK to take a little chance on someone with Foster’s talent. Just make sure you’re prepared. Same goes for other positions. If you draft Michael Vick, you better have a backup like Bradford or Flacco. Vick has such an aggressive style, that he poses more of an injury risk.
If you haven’t drafted yet, Foster remains a viable No. 2 draft pick. This doesn’t lower him on my list. I had him second, behind Peterson anyway. Again, just hedge your pick and get Tate or his likeness.
In the meantime, go tweet Arian some love.
Erin Skelley joins SportsRadio 610 every football season with riveting fantasy knowledge. Follow her on Twitter.
Thursday, September 1, 2011
The Fantasy Impact of Kerry Collins
Poor Reggie Wayne. And Dallas Clark. Austin and Pierre too. These orphaned receivers just learned the identity of their new provider. And it’s not comforting.
Kerry Collins. Kerry… Freaking… Collins.
The 38-year old ex-retiree is putting the chin strap back on for Indy. Colts loyalists must be devastated. How good can Collins possibly be? What does this mean for Peyton? Will Jags fans start laughing at them? It could happen.
OK, OK, everyone settle down. Let’s focus on what matters. The real losers are the fantasy owners who are baffled by the impact on some key players.
Let’s break it down:
Peyton Manning – This is a giant question mark. Is Collins merely a safety net? Hardly. Colts owner Jim Irsay hinted there were more substantial problems via Twitter.
My wild guess: Peyton is out a minimum of two games. Maybe four. Just don’t know. Fantasy owners, beware. I wouldn’t pass on Phillip Rivers orMatt Schaub for a risk like Manning. I would take him no earlier than the seventh round. And even then I would close my eyes as I hit “select.”
Reggie Wayne, Austin Collie and Pierre Garcon – I would add 10 spots to their current rankings. Think Austin or Pierre would be known or relevant on a mediocre team? Quick! Name two Browns receivers!
Dallas Clark – His value maintains – early fourth round. Risky QBs love tight ends.
Joseph Addai – Currently going in rounds 5-6, his value remains the same. Sure, they’ll run more, but they also won’t have as many scoring opportunities. A balanced offense benefits everyone.
Kerry Collins – Um no. There are 12 guys I like better.
Erin Skelley joins SportsRadio 610 every football season with riveting fantasy knowledge. Follow her on Twitter.
Kerry Collins. Kerry… Freaking… Collins.
The 38-year old ex-retiree is putting the chin strap back on for Indy. Colts loyalists must be devastated. How good can Collins possibly be? What does this mean for Peyton? Will Jags fans start laughing at them? It could happen.
OK, OK, everyone settle down. Let’s focus on what matters. The real losers are the fantasy owners who are baffled by the impact on some key players.
Let’s break it down:
Peyton Manning – This is a giant question mark. Is Collins merely a safety net? Hardly. Colts owner Jim Irsay hinted there were more substantial problems via Twitter.
My wild guess: Peyton is out a minimum of two games. Maybe four. Just don’t know. Fantasy owners, beware. I wouldn’t pass on Phillip Rivers orMatt Schaub for a risk like Manning. I would take him no earlier than the seventh round. And even then I would close my eyes as I hit “select.”
Reggie Wayne, Austin Collie and Pierre Garcon – I would add 10 spots to their current rankings. Think Austin or Pierre would be known or relevant on a mediocre team? Quick! Name two Browns receivers!
Dallas Clark – His value maintains – early fourth round. Risky QBs love tight ends.
Joseph Addai – Currently going in rounds 5-6, his value remains the same. Sure, they’ll run more, but they also won’t have as many scoring opportunities. A balanced offense benefits everyone.
Kerry Collins – Um no. There are 12 guys I like better.
Erin Skelley joins SportsRadio 610 every football season with riveting fantasy knowledge. Follow her on Twitter.
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