Not even DeMarco Murray could save me. His 253-yard, TD performance was lost on my team. Three more DeMarcos would have worked. Possibly. But instead, my arsenal included Mo Morris, Marshawn Lynch and Chris Johnson. Are you laughing yet? Thank you, Pete Carroll, for unleashing your covert running back cover-up. You fooled everyone. Somewhere Mike Shanahan is giving you the knuckle. Fantasy owners, on the other hand…
And CJ, you have annoyed, frustrated and befuddled me to my very core. I am beyond despair and disbelief that I drafted someone who plays with such lackluster and indifference. And despite my best attempts, no thesaurus can help me find more adjectives to describe my outrage. You, my friend, are a thief. The only consolation – and it’s a good one – is knowing Titans fans are suffering more.
But good luck against Indy. I believe in you.
Now, on to this week’s waiver picks:
Bernard Scott – Does Cedric Benson even remember why he’s being punished? I’ve already forgotten. But I have not forgotten about Bernard who is squatting on valuable bench space. Even though Seattle is tough against the run, with the bye weeks in bloom, Scott is a viable No. 2 back. Yes, even with his measly 2.8 yards per carry. Dream big, Bernard! Available in 82 percent of Yahoo leagues.
Demaryius Thomas – What playbook? Tim Tebow’s Mad Lib offense is nutty. It’s hard to predict who will get the ball when even Timmy doesn’t know. While entertaining for the fan, his little improvised game plan was not so entertaining for the fantasy owner. Thomas was the carnival winner last week with 27 yards, a touchdown and a leaky snow cone. If you’re in a deep league or bye week drama, Thomas is worth a look. Available in 91 percent of Yahoo leagues.
Christian Ponder – Ponder proved the Vikings aren’t horrible with a decent QB. Far less boring too! The rookie rifle passed for 219 yards, including two touchdowns and two interceptions. Loving his matchup against a soft and vulnerable Panthers pass defense this week. Available in 89 percent of Yahoo leagues.
Roy Helu – Another heluva pick here. Or not. Good luck picking the right nut in the Shanahan shell game. Feeling lucky? Try Helu. Available in 82 percent of Yahoo leagues.
Knowshon Moreno – Subbing for his former backup-turned-starter, Moreno could benefit from the run-heavy-cause-Tebow-can’t-pass Denver offense. And while Moreno is ho hum as a typical running back, he’s a good receiving back who could compliment Tebow’s irregular play nicely. Available in 50 percent of Yahoo leagues.
Montario Hardesty – The Little Engine That Could finally amassed over 100 yards. Not a spectacular effort – 2.7 yard per carry – but hard to overlook 122 total yards. Peyton Hillis could return week 8, so Hardesty is likely a flex play. But that’s a promotion from where he’s been most of the season – the bench. Available in 64 percent of Yahoo leagues.
Alfonso Smith – Filling in for the bruised Beanie Wells, Smith garnered only 17 yards on the day, although he did find the end zone. Served as the lone runner for Arizona after Wells exited, which tips the hand his way for week 8. Unfriendly matchup this week vs. Baltimore, but if Beanie’s sensitivity to pain lingers, Smith owners can enjoy a yummy Rams defense week 9. Available in 98 percent of Yahoo leagues.
Tim Tebow – I know. Crazy exciting. But get a hold of yourself. Lions are tough against the pass. Better options out there.
Can’t get enough of Erin Skelley? Join her every Friday and Sunday morning on SportsRadio 610 or follow her on Twitter.
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
Thursday, October 20, 2011
Week 7 Fantasy Picks
So I sweated out a couple of victories this weekend. As fun as it seemed, I contained my inner Jim Harbaugh. Come on, Jim. If anyone should go completely bonkers over a victory, it is team Lil Bow Wow. I’m now 6-0. And my competition is tough. No silly little NFC West. And try beating the Lions without your starting quarterback, wide receiver or your defense.
While I write – and obsess – about the game of make-believe football, the stuff on the actual field has its drama and lure. Yeah, even with no stake in the game. From the Harbaugh-Schwartz scuffle to unnecessary roughness against Sean Payton to Romo’s meltdown. Again. I don’t get it either, Dez. And how about VY? Good grief! You’re the relief pitcher with the 81.00 ERA. Two pitches and yank.
Every now and then, you should step away from the stat tracker and enjoy the game. Of course, make sure your lineup is set. And with that, check out these waiver finds:
DeMarco Murray – Felix Jones’ high ankle sprain is just as annoying as his production this season. Murray is the new guy in Dallas. Not particulary impressive against New England with 39 total yards, but he is expected to serve as lead back, splitting time with Tashard Choice. Murray and the Cowboys have a favorable matchup, facing the sad Rams on Sunday. Available in 84 percent of Yahoo leagues.
Montario Hardesty – It wasn’t pretty but Hardesty got his chances on Sunday, subbing for the hammy-stricken Peyton Hillis. With 11 carries for 35 measly yards, Hardesty added 18 receiving yards. Still, not impressive. And I haven’t even mentioned his dropped passes. With Hillis questionable for Sunday, he’s a decent option for owners with injury-plagued RBs or bye week choices to make… or those who just wanna roll the dice and see what happens with this guy. Available in 81 percent of Yahoo leagues.
Jake Ballard – Now I know why Victor Cruz was hiding. Manningham found the Bobby Brady bad luck tiki, nullifying multiple touchdown opportunities. Meanwhile, Ballard reaped five catches for 81 yards. Week 7 is a bye, but I like the Miami matchup week 8. Available in 89 percent of Yahoo leagues.
Fred Davis – After vying with Chris Cooley for the ball, a broken finger gives Davis the starting job for the next few weeks. With all ten digits, Davis grabbed six passes for 95 yards. Nervous about Rex? Me too. Remember, there’s less risk with tight end. Even I can throw a ball 10 yards. Available in 53 percent of Yahoo leagues.
Demaryius Thomas – Brandon Lloyd’s exit provides great opportunity for the Georgia Tech product. Still a few question marks here: How much will Tebow throw? Will Decker be the favorite? Will Tebow stink? Consider Thomas a viable No. 3/flex play. Available in 98 percent of Yahoo leagues.
Can’t get enough of Erin Skelley? Tune in every Friday and Sunday morning for Erin’s fantasy news and notes. Follow her on Twitter.
While I write – and obsess – about the game of make-believe football, the stuff on the actual field has its drama and lure. Yeah, even with no stake in the game. From the Harbaugh-Schwartz scuffle to unnecessary roughness against Sean Payton to Romo’s meltdown. Again. I don’t get it either, Dez. And how about VY? Good grief! You’re the relief pitcher with the 81.00 ERA. Two pitches and yank.
Every now and then, you should step away from the stat tracker and enjoy the game. Of course, make sure your lineup is set. And with that, check out these waiver finds:
DeMarco Murray – Felix Jones’ high ankle sprain is just as annoying as his production this season. Murray is the new guy in Dallas. Not particulary impressive against New England with 39 total yards, but he is expected to serve as lead back, splitting time with Tashard Choice. Murray and the Cowboys have a favorable matchup, facing the sad Rams on Sunday. Available in 84 percent of Yahoo leagues.
Montario Hardesty – It wasn’t pretty but Hardesty got his chances on Sunday, subbing for the hammy-stricken Peyton Hillis. With 11 carries for 35 measly yards, Hardesty added 18 receiving yards. Still, not impressive. And I haven’t even mentioned his dropped passes. With Hillis questionable for Sunday, he’s a decent option for owners with injury-plagued RBs or bye week choices to make… or those who just wanna roll the dice and see what happens with this guy. Available in 81 percent of Yahoo leagues.
Jake Ballard – Now I know why Victor Cruz was hiding. Manningham found the Bobby Brady bad luck tiki, nullifying multiple touchdown opportunities. Meanwhile, Ballard reaped five catches for 81 yards. Week 7 is a bye, but I like the Miami matchup week 8. Available in 89 percent of Yahoo leagues.
Fred Davis – After vying with Chris Cooley for the ball, a broken finger gives Davis the starting job for the next few weeks. With all ten digits, Davis grabbed six passes for 95 yards. Nervous about Rex? Me too. Remember, there’s less risk with tight end. Even I can throw a ball 10 yards. Available in 53 percent of Yahoo leagues.
Demaryius Thomas – Brandon Lloyd’s exit provides great opportunity for the Georgia Tech product. Still a few question marks here: How much will Tebow throw? Will Decker be the favorite? Will Tebow stink? Consider Thomas a viable No. 3/flex play. Available in 98 percent of Yahoo leagues.
Can’t get enough of Erin Skelley? Tune in every Friday and Sunday morning for Erin’s fantasy news and notes. Follow her on Twitter.
Wednesday, October 12, 2011
Week 6 Fantasy Picks: Tebow Rises
There are three things you never discuss at parties….or in sports: politics, religion and Tim Tebow. I’m here to break some rules, my friend. Join me, as I wanna talk some Tebow.
The gifted child has little appeal to me. Watching him enter the Broncos-Chargers game like Braveheart was painful. He looked hyperactive and unnatural, and yet that’s also his charm. To some.
But this is fantasy, and persona doesn’t matter. You can’t ignore his miracle string of performances to end the 2010 season. In three games, he totaled 651 yards in the air and 225 on the ground, along with seven TDs. Those are good stats, especially if he’s mortal.
If that’s not enough, even the cynical have to consider week 7, when Tebow returns to Florida where he became a legend. Miami pass defense stinks too. With the quarterback position stacked this year, I don’t consider him a “must grab.” But if you have Ben or Tony, heck yeah, covert to Team Tebow.
Here are a few other guys to consider. While less Tebow-ish, they still can help you.
Delone Carter – Another injury, another waiver wonder. Carter filled in for the hamstrung Joseph Addai with 22 yards on 12 carries and a touchdown. He also added 12 receiving yards. He wasn’t great, but it is the bye weeks. And for that reason, you lower your expectations. Available in 86 percent of Yahoo leagues.
Jackie Battle – Forget Jones and McCluster, Battle toted the lion’s share of the carries against the Colts with 19 for 119 yards. Haley’s latest surprise is expected to remain in the running back mix (unless Haley reads more fan mail). In week 7, he faces Oakland, who gives up the third most fantasy points to running backs. Available in 86 percent of Yahoo leagues. Seriously, Haley, a fan’s advice?
Victor Cruz – I understand why you’re reluctant. His success is dependant on Eli Manning. But rest assured, Eli is solid lately. Wideouts can make QBs better. Cruz is coming off another masterful performance with eight catches for 161 yards. He needs to settle those hands down, as he’s prone to fumbling, but otherwise, he’s a great addition. Faces Buffalo this week, who is vulnerable against the pass. And he’s still available in 39 percent of Yahoo leagues. Still.
Darrius Heyward-Bey – Say hey to the Oakland wideout who reeled in 7 catches for 99 yards vs. Houston on Sunday. As a general rule of thumb, you may tend to avoid Raiders players who aren’t Darren McFadden, but Jason Campbell is actually a decent feeder this year. The Cleveland matchup week 6 is scary, but again, it’s the bye weeks.
Pierre Garcon – Kurt Cobain seems to have a preference for the French waiter, targeting him eight times with five catches for 125 yards. While Garcon is largely taken (available in only 23 percent of Yahoo leagues), he’s probably on your bench. Forgotten what a Colt in the lineup looks like?
Stevan Ridley – Alrighty, my bad. It was widely reported that Ridley would be the favorite. It’s your fault for starting a Belichick RB. You knew the risk.
Join Erin Skelley every Friday and Sunday morning with fantasy news and tips. Follow her on Twitter.
The gifted child has little appeal to me. Watching him enter the Broncos-Chargers game like Braveheart was painful. He looked hyperactive and unnatural, and yet that’s also his charm. To some.
But this is fantasy, and persona doesn’t matter. You can’t ignore his miracle string of performances to end the 2010 season. In three games, he totaled 651 yards in the air and 225 on the ground, along with seven TDs. Those are good stats, especially if he’s mortal.
If that’s not enough, even the cynical have to consider week 7, when Tebow returns to Florida where he became a legend. Miami pass defense stinks too. With the quarterback position stacked this year, I don’t consider him a “must grab.” But if you have Ben or Tony, heck yeah, covert to Team Tebow.
Here are a few other guys to consider. While less Tebow-ish, they still can help you.
Delone Carter – Another injury, another waiver wonder. Carter filled in for the hamstrung Joseph Addai with 22 yards on 12 carries and a touchdown. He also added 12 receiving yards. He wasn’t great, but it is the bye weeks. And for that reason, you lower your expectations. Available in 86 percent of Yahoo leagues.
Jackie Battle – Forget Jones and McCluster, Battle toted the lion’s share of the carries against the Colts with 19 for 119 yards. Haley’s latest surprise is expected to remain in the running back mix (unless Haley reads more fan mail). In week 7, he faces Oakland, who gives up the third most fantasy points to running backs. Available in 86 percent of Yahoo leagues. Seriously, Haley, a fan’s advice?
Victor Cruz – I understand why you’re reluctant. His success is dependant on Eli Manning. But rest assured, Eli is solid lately. Wideouts can make QBs better. Cruz is coming off another masterful performance with eight catches for 161 yards. He needs to settle those hands down, as he’s prone to fumbling, but otherwise, he’s a great addition. Faces Buffalo this week, who is vulnerable against the pass. And he’s still available in 39 percent of Yahoo leagues. Still.
Darrius Heyward-Bey – Say hey to the Oakland wideout who reeled in 7 catches for 99 yards vs. Houston on Sunday. As a general rule of thumb, you may tend to avoid Raiders players who aren’t Darren McFadden, but Jason Campbell is actually a decent feeder this year. The Cleveland matchup week 6 is scary, but again, it’s the bye weeks.
Pierre Garcon – Kurt Cobain seems to have a preference for the French waiter, targeting him eight times with five catches for 125 yards. While Garcon is largely taken (available in only 23 percent of Yahoo leagues), he’s probably on your bench. Forgotten what a Colt in the lineup looks like?
Stevan Ridley – Alrighty, my bad. It was widely reported that Ridley would be the favorite. It’s your fault for starting a Belichick RB. You knew the risk.
Join Erin Skelley every Friday and Sunday morning with fantasy news and tips. Follow her on Twitter.
Wednesday, October 5, 2011
Week 5 Fantasy Picks: Hello Bye Weeks
Apparently we have bye weeks again this year. Who knew this was still in the league bylaws. Without revealing all my flaws, let’s just say week 6 presents a little challenge for me. Truth be told, I enjoy this time of year. Not week 6, in particular. No, especially not week 6; it’s a doozie. But I like digging deep for a nameless scrub week to week and finding ways to squeak a win.
Over the last week, I’ve received a few texts, tweets and e-mails from the doomed and the desperate. Really desperate. Think Indianapolis Colts. So what’s a poor fool to do? I’ve got an idea but it requires some planning and some empty bench space.
Game the System
You have to be smarter, starting now. Your best bet, and my favorite strategy, is thinking ahead. Sounds obvious, but what I mean is thinking about your lineup and your waiver moves when you’re not competing for the same picks as the rest of your league. Don’t wait until week 8 to pick your week 8 defense. Get them on their bye or against a strong opponent, when no one else wants them. Sneaky, sneaky, I know. Someone give me an Eric Foster fist pump for that.
And if you think that’s smart, check out these super smart pickups:
Smart Pickups
Stevan Ridley – Running back roulette is back. And Belichick is the dealer. Ridley is the new back in New England, and put all your money on him. For now. Until Belichick changes his mind. The rookie RB ran for 97 yards and a touchdown on 10 carries. For BenJarvus Green-Ellis owners, I recommend stashing him on your bench. Be ready to dust him off when Belichick is bored with Ridley. Available in 85 percent of Yahoo leagues.
Jacoby Jones – The fantasy community was dealt another blow this weekend with Andre Johnson crumbling down. The most obvious choice in Houston is probably the best one. Jones knows the playbook and loves running to the end zone for his mama (almost, but not exactly, his quote). His stats aren’t good enough to include, but he’s the next man up in a formidable offense. This weekend, Jones faces the silver and black. Raiders fans scare me more than their defense. Available in 75 percent of Yahoo leagues.
Ryan Torain – As if Belichick’s fickleness wasn’t enough, say hello to Mike Shanahan. Hightower owners are reeling. Two lousy points. Torain, meanwhile, ran for 135 yards on nine carries. My take, claim Torain at your own risk. He’s likely the starter in week 6 (remember, think ahead), so if you’re on a bye, he’s the smartest play of the Redskins potpourri of backs. But don’t count on this love to last. Available in 76 percent of Yahoo leagues.
Isaac Redman – Mendenhall’s hammy is hurting, and Mewelde Moore is also down. Enter Redman. (Isn’t that a song?) In limited action, the third-year back has 107 yards and one score. No one saw this coming, so he’s largely available (88 percent).
Preston Parker – The Tampa wideout could be a nice filler during the byes. Shined on Monday Night Football with 70 yards and a TD. Faces a generous San Fransisco pass defense this week. Available in 94 percent of Yahoo leagues.
Other Notes
Chris Johnson – For crying out loud, it’s about time. I was SO close to dumping him at the nearest fire station or hospital and surrendering my rights to the state. But 101 yards on 23 carries will allow Johnson to remain a part of the Skelley fantasy family. It’s a shame Kenny Britt’s injury is to thank for CJ’s increase in production. Love the Steelers matchup this week if Foster’s performance is any indicator. Tennessee defense should dominate, placing the pigskin in the money mogul’s hands.
Matt Schaub – If you have the Texans QB, yeah, it’s a bear market. But he’s a steady producer (except for last week). I still put him in my top 12 this week. Come on, he plays the Raiders.
Tony Romo – I hate to say this, but the city of Dallas was right. In reality or fantasy, you’re rolling the dice with Romo.
Can’t get enough of Erin Skelley? Want more, more, more? Listen to her on SportsRadio 610 on Friday and Sunday mornings. Follow her on Twitter.
Over the last week, I’ve received a few texts, tweets and e-mails from the doomed and the desperate. Really desperate. Think Indianapolis Colts. So what’s a poor fool to do? I’ve got an idea but it requires some planning and some empty bench space.
Game the System
You have to be smarter, starting now. Your best bet, and my favorite strategy, is thinking ahead. Sounds obvious, but what I mean is thinking about your lineup and your waiver moves when you’re not competing for the same picks as the rest of your league. Don’t wait until week 8 to pick your week 8 defense. Get them on their bye or against a strong opponent, when no one else wants them. Sneaky, sneaky, I know. Someone give me an Eric Foster fist pump for that.
And if you think that’s smart, check out these super smart pickups:
Smart Pickups
Stevan Ridley – Running back roulette is back. And Belichick is the dealer. Ridley is the new back in New England, and put all your money on him. For now. Until Belichick changes his mind. The rookie RB ran for 97 yards and a touchdown on 10 carries. For BenJarvus Green-Ellis owners, I recommend stashing him on your bench. Be ready to dust him off when Belichick is bored with Ridley. Available in 85 percent of Yahoo leagues.
Jacoby Jones – The fantasy community was dealt another blow this weekend with Andre Johnson crumbling down. The most obvious choice in Houston is probably the best one. Jones knows the playbook and loves running to the end zone for his mama (almost, but not exactly, his quote). His stats aren’t good enough to include, but he’s the next man up in a formidable offense. This weekend, Jones faces the silver and black. Raiders fans scare me more than their defense. Available in 75 percent of Yahoo leagues.
Ryan Torain – As if Belichick’s fickleness wasn’t enough, say hello to Mike Shanahan. Hightower owners are reeling. Two lousy points. Torain, meanwhile, ran for 135 yards on nine carries. My take, claim Torain at your own risk. He’s likely the starter in week 6 (remember, think ahead), so if you’re on a bye, he’s the smartest play of the Redskins potpourri of backs. But don’t count on this love to last. Available in 76 percent of Yahoo leagues.
Isaac Redman – Mendenhall’s hammy is hurting, and Mewelde Moore is also down. Enter Redman. (Isn’t that a song?) In limited action, the third-year back has 107 yards and one score. No one saw this coming, so he’s largely available (88 percent).
Preston Parker – The Tampa wideout could be a nice filler during the byes. Shined on Monday Night Football with 70 yards and a TD. Faces a generous San Fransisco pass defense this week. Available in 94 percent of Yahoo leagues.
Other Notes
Chris Johnson – For crying out loud, it’s about time. I was SO close to dumping him at the nearest fire station or hospital and surrendering my rights to the state. But 101 yards on 23 carries will allow Johnson to remain a part of the Skelley fantasy family. It’s a shame Kenny Britt’s injury is to thank for CJ’s increase in production. Love the Steelers matchup this week if Foster’s performance is any indicator. Tennessee defense should dominate, placing the pigskin in the money mogul’s hands.
Matt Schaub – If you have the Texans QB, yeah, it’s a bear market. But he’s a steady producer (except for last week). I still put him in my top 12 this week. Come on, he plays the Raiders.
Tony Romo – I hate to say this, but the city of Dallas was right. In reality or fantasy, you’re rolling the dice with Romo.
Can’t get enough of Erin Skelley? Want more, more, more? Listen to her on SportsRadio 610 on Friday and Sunday mornings. Follow her on Twitter.
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