How was your week 7? For me, it was bad, very bad actually. These next 2 weeks are going to be tough with the 6 teams on byes, so your waiver wire pickups will be huge for these next 2 weeks.
Byes: ATL, BAL, CHI, CLE, NYG, PHI
Who to Start:
QB Matt Cassel (KC) vs. BUF: He’s been a good spot starter for those who’ve needed him against porous secondaries in the last 2 weeks. He’ll be useful in that same position this week, against Buffalo, who gives up tons of points to fantasy QB’s.
RB Ryan Torain (WSH) vs. DET: Who again? The new Redskins running back, and he’s been a great starter against bad rush D’s. That will continue against Detroit, who doesn’t stop the run very well, and gives up tons of fantasy points to RB’s.
WR Pierre Garcon (IND) vs. HOU MON: He’s been bitten by the injury bug this year, and with Dallas Clark and Austin Collie out of commission, he should see tons of action against a very bad Houston secondary.
WR Dez Bryant (DAL) vs. JAX: Ignore the Jon Kitna factor for a moment to see that the Jaguars secondary may be one of the worst in league history. 6 different safety combinations in 7 games have provided tasty matchups for wideouts, and that will stay the same for Dez Bryant.
TE Brandon Pettigrew (DET) vs. WSH: With Matt Stafford seeing his first action since week 1 due to injury, Pettigrew should finally see a bigger share of the Detroit passing pie, and it does help that Washington’s D allows a ton of yards.
DEF New England vs. MIN: Either way if Brett Favre is out or not, the Patriots D has looked pretty good all year as a fantasy option, and with Favre turning it over and limping or Tarvaris Jackson starting, this matchup is very enticing.
Who to Sit:
QB Mark Sanchez (NYJ) vs. GB: He’s had his bye week, and he did have a great stretch from weeks 2-4, but he has struggled of late in his last 2 games, and that won’t help him much against a Green Bay pass D that has allowed 8 pass TD’s all season.
RB Ryan Mathews (SD) vs. TEN: I know he’s a great running back, and has star written all over him, but he’s seen less than 10 carries per game since week 4, due to Mike Tolbert and Jacob Hester. Until he sees more carries, bench him.
WR Donald Driver (GB) vs. NYJ: He’s been nagged by an injured quad and his streak of 135 games with a catch was broken last week against Minnesota. It should be noted he’s facing a rested Jets pass D also, which doesn’t help.
WR Michael Crabtree (SF) vs. DEN LONDON: He has either been awesome or awful for fantasy owners this year, with 1 game showing up and another seeming like he was injured. Now that he lost Alex Smith and David Carr to injuries, he now has Troy Smith to help him out. You can see why he should be benched.
TE Jeremy Shockey (NO) vs. PIT: He hasn’t had big games for New Orleans since week 5, 81 yards in that stretch, and it doesn’t help him that he’ll be facing the Steelers. Only way he does well if New Orleans voodoo affects that Steelers D on Halloween.
DEF San Francisco vs. DEN LONDON: This was a highly touted fantasy D in many drafts this year, and they’ve been the only part of the Niners team that has been somewhat decent for fantasy this year. Avoid them in London, because points get put up gangbusters at Wembley.
3 Super Sleepers for Week 8:
QB Jon Kitna (DAL) vs. JAX: Remember I mentioned the Jon Kitna factor earlier? That may turn you off if you have no other option this week. But remember this: he made Roy Williams a pro bowl receiver in 2007 with Detroit, and he is facing Jacksonville.
RB LeGarrette Blount (TB) vs. ARZ: He’s seen a lot more action in the Tampa backfield in the past couple of weeks, and as long as he doesn’t punch anyone in red, he should be a good option, against a bad Cardinals rush D.
WR Steve Johnson (BUF) vs. KC: Who is he? He’s Buffalo’s 2nd receiver now, and he’s played very well in the last 2 games for the Bills. He’s scored 1 TD each of his last 4 games. Despite the cries of “It’s Buffalo!” crooning in my ear, he is a very favorable option this week.
Good Luck in Week 8!
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Thursday, October 28, 2010
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
My World Series Prediction
After my fails at predicting the other 2 rounds, I will try to do much better for this World Series.
San Francisco vs. Texas:
Hitting: Advantage Texas:
It has been proven that Texas has a very potent offense, and the Giants have more of a situational offense. Who would have expected Cody Ross to be the NLCS MVP for pete's sake? Even though San Francisco did a good job pitching to the Phillies offense, which is arguably better than the Rangers', I still believe that the Rangers will find a way to hit the Giants starters at least. The Rangers O gets at you early, and often, so minimizing damage early in the game will be huge for the Giants. With the Rangers batting being much better, and having grounded threats, like Josh Hamilton or Elvis Andrus, the Giants hitting will have to keep up. They only have Buster Posey, and someone we don't know yet will step up, while the Rangers entire line-up is threatening. The Rangers hitting is much better.
Starting Rotation: Advantage Texas:
You may be shocked that I picked them, but the Rangers had to pitch well to beat the Yankees, and they did that. C.J Wilson is a better pitcher right now than Matt Cain, Colby Lewis is better than the inconsistent Jonathan Sanchez, and Cliff Lee in all of his playoff dominance is better than Tim Lincecum (yeah, I said it). Even Tommy Hunter is pitching better right now than Madison Bumgarner. I think this series will ultimately come down to starting pitching, and while the Giants had the best starting rotation during the regular season, it only matters who is pitching better now, and right now the Rangers starters are absolutely dominant.
Bullpen: Advantage San Francisco:
It's a well known fact by now that the Rangers bullpen is very weak, and that is a major hindrance to the team if they are in close games. They haven't been in many close games because their starters and offense are clicking early, giving their bullpen a large enough cushion (except in ALCS Game 1). The Giants bullpen has been lock down in the playoffs. Brian Wilson is one of the best closers in the game today, and if he has a lead, he likely will not blow it, although he will make it very interesting. The Giants set up guys are also very dominant, and the Rangers set up guys are not very good. If the Giants have a lead, their bullpen will very likely keep it in tact.
Prediction: Texas in 6 Games.
The Rangers hitting and starters are better than the Giants hitting and starters, and that is the main reason why I think Texas will win this series. If the Giants offense produces enough, then they can win this series, but when the most runs you've scored in a game is 5 in these playoffs, that won't help them enough. I believe the Rangers after 49 years of agony; will be holding up the commissioner's trophy.
San Francisco vs. Texas:
Hitting: Advantage Texas:
It has been proven that Texas has a very potent offense, and the Giants have more of a situational offense. Who would have expected Cody Ross to be the NLCS MVP for pete's sake? Even though San Francisco did a good job pitching to the Phillies offense, which is arguably better than the Rangers', I still believe that the Rangers will find a way to hit the Giants starters at least. The Rangers O gets at you early, and often, so minimizing damage early in the game will be huge for the Giants. With the Rangers batting being much better, and having grounded threats, like Josh Hamilton or Elvis Andrus, the Giants hitting will have to keep up. They only have Buster Posey, and someone we don't know yet will step up, while the Rangers entire line-up is threatening. The Rangers hitting is much better.
Starting Rotation: Advantage Texas:
You may be shocked that I picked them, but the Rangers had to pitch well to beat the Yankees, and they did that. C.J Wilson is a better pitcher right now than Matt Cain, Colby Lewis is better than the inconsistent Jonathan Sanchez, and Cliff Lee in all of his playoff dominance is better than Tim Lincecum (yeah, I said it). Even Tommy Hunter is pitching better right now than Madison Bumgarner. I think this series will ultimately come down to starting pitching, and while the Giants had the best starting rotation during the regular season, it only matters who is pitching better now, and right now the Rangers starters are absolutely dominant.
Bullpen: Advantage San Francisco:
It's a well known fact by now that the Rangers bullpen is very weak, and that is a major hindrance to the team if they are in close games. They haven't been in many close games because their starters and offense are clicking early, giving their bullpen a large enough cushion (except in ALCS Game 1). The Giants bullpen has been lock down in the playoffs. Brian Wilson is one of the best closers in the game today, and if he has a lead, he likely will not blow it, although he will make it very interesting. The Giants set up guys are also very dominant, and the Rangers set up guys are not very good. If the Giants have a lead, their bullpen will very likely keep it in tact.
Prediction: Texas in 6 Games.
The Rangers hitting and starters are better than the Giants hitting and starters, and that is the main reason why I think Texas will win this series. If the Giants offense produces enough, then they can win this series, but when the most runs you've scored in a game is 5 in these playoffs, that won't help them enough. I believe the Rangers after 49 years of agony; will be holding up the commissioner's trophy.
Thursday, October 21, 2010
Week 7 Fantasy Advice
Did you have a good week 6? I didn’t. Both of my fantasy teams lost, and so did my real time. I had a bad weekend, but that’s what my picks are for, and they were pretty decent. I wonder if I can get better luck from my fantasy and real teams, if I sacrifice my picks. No, because that would sacrifice my integrity.
Byes: DET, NYJ, HOU, IND
Who to Start:
QB Kyle Orton (DEN) vs. OAK: Boy has he been a major surprise this year. He is one of the NFL’s leading passers, and he gets assisted by the fact he’s facing Oakland, who has allowed the last 4 QB’s they have faced to throw 2 TD’s a game.
RB Peyton Hillis (CLE) vs. NO: He’s now the feature back in Cleveland, and with their QB carousel spinning furiously, expect him to see a lot of action. He’s facing the Saints, who give up an average of 18 fantasy points a game to opposing backs this year, which gives him an advantage.
WR Dwayne Bowe (KC) vs. JAX: He has fixes his drop issues after a great game against Houston, and his success should continue, as he is facing the Jaguars pass D, which is 28th in the NFL against the pass.
WR Terrell Owens (CIN) vs. ATL: He has become the best fantasy wide out in the Queen City, and has become more than reliable as an every week fantasy starter. He should have more success against an Atlanta secondary that will be without its best corner, Dunta Robinson.
TE Todd Heap (BAL) vs. BUF: Despite the fact that Buffalo is coming off a bye, he should still have a big game for 2 reasons: one, the Bills have given up the most TD’s to Tight Ends this year, and 2 , Baltimore needs to take out its frustrations from last week on someone.
DEF Kansas City vs. JAX: The Jags may be down to a street QB starting this week. Despite the fact that the Chiefs D struggled last week that was against Houston, they should have a field day on Sunday.
Who to Sit:
QB Kevin Kolb (PHI) vs. TEN: He had a great game against Atlanta last Sunday, but he likely won’t against the Titans who lead the NFL in sacks, and normally shut down opposing QB’s.
RB Fred Jackson (BUF) vs. BAL: Despite the fact that his value went up after Marshawn Lynch was traded, he should be avoided this week because he is facing Baltimore’s D.
WR Michael Crabtree (SF) vs. CAR: Be weary of starting him this week. Despite Carolina’s 0-5 record, they are great at home defending the pass, just ask Todd Collins.
WR Mike Sims-Walker (JAX) vs. KC: He could be without his 2 top QB’s, and his fantasy numbers were already very low this year. Don’t expect numbers out of him this Sunday.
TE Greg Olsen (CHI) vs. WSH: He has done nothing, and I do mean that literally in his last 2 starts. He seems to be falling off in use in Mike Martz’s system. Avoid.
DEF San Diego vs. NE: They have played very well in their 2 home games, but that was against Arizona, and Jacksonville. New England played pretty well against a great Baltimore D, so this matchup is not good for owners.
3 Super Sleepers for Week 7:
RB Chris Ivory (NO) vs. CLE: The pride of Tiffin College (what?), he has been a great replacement for the injured Pierre Thomas. If Thomas is out, Ivory is a great start against a pretty bad Cleveland run D.
WR Patrick Crayton (SD) vs. NE: The Chargers are down to their last 2 wideouts, due to injuries to Malcolm Floyd and Legedu Naanee. So, Crayton, who had 117 yards last week, should see the majority of pass targets, with Antonio Gates also a bit shaken up.
DEF Denver vs. OAK: Oakland thought that they would be getting Jim Plunkett with Jason Campbell. They got more JaMarcus Russell. The offense has been a complete disaster, and that should mean good things for the Denver D.
Good Luck in Week 7!
Byes: DET, NYJ, HOU, IND
Who to Start:
QB Kyle Orton (DEN) vs. OAK: Boy has he been a major surprise this year. He is one of the NFL’s leading passers, and he gets assisted by the fact he’s facing Oakland, who has allowed the last 4 QB’s they have faced to throw 2 TD’s a game.
RB Peyton Hillis (CLE) vs. NO: He’s now the feature back in Cleveland, and with their QB carousel spinning furiously, expect him to see a lot of action. He’s facing the Saints, who give up an average of 18 fantasy points a game to opposing backs this year, which gives him an advantage.
WR Dwayne Bowe (KC) vs. JAX: He has fixes his drop issues after a great game against Houston, and his success should continue, as he is facing the Jaguars pass D, which is 28th in the NFL against the pass.
WR Terrell Owens (CIN) vs. ATL: He has become the best fantasy wide out in the Queen City, and has become more than reliable as an every week fantasy starter. He should have more success against an Atlanta secondary that will be without its best corner, Dunta Robinson.
TE Todd Heap (BAL) vs. BUF: Despite the fact that Buffalo is coming off a bye, he should still have a big game for 2 reasons: one, the Bills have given up the most TD’s to Tight Ends this year, and 2 , Baltimore needs to take out its frustrations from last week on someone.
DEF Kansas City vs. JAX: The Jags may be down to a street QB starting this week. Despite the fact that the Chiefs D struggled last week that was against Houston, they should have a field day on Sunday.
Who to Sit:
QB Kevin Kolb (PHI) vs. TEN: He had a great game against Atlanta last Sunday, but he likely won’t against the Titans who lead the NFL in sacks, and normally shut down opposing QB’s.
RB Fred Jackson (BUF) vs. BAL: Despite the fact that his value went up after Marshawn Lynch was traded, he should be avoided this week because he is facing Baltimore’s D.
WR Michael Crabtree (SF) vs. CAR: Be weary of starting him this week. Despite Carolina’s 0-5 record, they are great at home defending the pass, just ask Todd Collins.
WR Mike Sims-Walker (JAX) vs. KC: He could be without his 2 top QB’s, and his fantasy numbers were already very low this year. Don’t expect numbers out of him this Sunday.
TE Greg Olsen (CHI) vs. WSH: He has done nothing, and I do mean that literally in his last 2 starts. He seems to be falling off in use in Mike Martz’s system. Avoid.
DEF San Diego vs. NE: They have played very well in their 2 home games, but that was against Arizona, and Jacksonville. New England played pretty well against a great Baltimore D, so this matchup is not good for owners.
3 Super Sleepers for Week 7:
RB Chris Ivory (NO) vs. CLE: The pride of Tiffin College (what?), he has been a great replacement for the injured Pierre Thomas. If Thomas is out, Ivory is a great start against a pretty bad Cleveland run D.
WR Patrick Crayton (SD) vs. NE: The Chargers are down to their last 2 wideouts, due to injuries to Malcolm Floyd and Legedu Naanee. So, Crayton, who had 117 yards last week, should see the majority of pass targets, with Antonio Gates also a bit shaken up.
DEF Denver vs. OAK: Oakland thought that they would be getting Jim Plunkett with Jason Campbell. They got more JaMarcus Russell. The offense has been a complete disaster, and that should mean good things for the Denver D.
Good Luck in Week 7!
Thursday, October 14, 2010
Week 6 Fantasy Advice
Did you have a good week 5? My picks may not have been as good as they could be, but hey, my fantasy teams won! It’s not about me though, it’s about my picks.
Byes: CIN, ARZ, BUF, CAR
Who to Start:
QB Vince Young (TEN) vs. JAX MON: The Jaguars pass D is 29th in the league against the pass, and due to Chris Johnson taking up a lot of attention of opposing defenses, Young can and will perform well.
RB Ahmad Bradshaw (NYG) vs. DET: The Lions rushing defense is not very good, and the Giants who like to run the ball plenty often, will see to it that Bradshaw will have a great game, despite a bum ankle.
WR Mike Wallace (PIT) vs. CLE: With Big Ben’s return to the Steelers huddle, all of the Steelers wide outs are now very viable players. Mike Wallace is the Steelers’ deep threat, and due to that, Ben will target Wallace often. It helps to play Cleveland also.
WR: Dwayne Bowe (KC) vs. HOU: I know that Dwayne Bowe has been dropping the ball way too often for Chiefs fans, but on Sunday, he’ll be facing the Texans who have the worst pass D in the league.
TE Tony Gonzalez (ATL) vs. PHI: Despite the Eagles D playing better of late, they still always seem to struggle to defend Tight Ends, and Tony Gonzalez is still one of the best around.
DEF Chicago vs. SEA: The Seahawks have been truly dreadful on the road this year, looking bad in both games at Denver and St. Louis, and they’ll struggle against a resurgent Bears unit.
Who to Sit:
QB Sam Bradford (STL) vs. SD: After a very bad game against Detroit of all teams last week, he won’t be able to rebound easily against a San Diego pass D that has been causing trouble for all opponents this year.
RB Ronnie Brown (MIA) vs. GB: Despite the Pack being battered and bruised, they’ve still allowed the 3rd fewest fantasy points to opposing backs this year, which makes this matchup not appealing for Brown’s owners.
WR Braylon Edwards (NYJ) vs. DEN: If you have better options, use them because Edwards is going up against one of the best cover corners in the league, Champ Bailey.
WR Deion Branch (NE) vs. BAL: Despite him being traded to New England over the past week which improves his fantasy value greatly, I would recommend sitting him against Baltimore, who still has one of the best D’s in the NFL.
TE Marcedes Lewis (JAX) vs. TEN MON: His (few) owners have been well rewarded with his 5 TD’s, 2nd in the NFL amongst Tight Ends behind Antonio Gates. However, this matchup doesn’t favor Lewis, as he only has 1 TD against the Titans in his 8 career games.
DEF Washington vs. IND: Last week the Colts were held in check by the Chiefs, but this won’t continue against a Redskin D that hasn’t been too great against opposing QB’s this year.
3 Super Sleepers for Week 6:
DEF Miami vs. GB: Watch the injury reports to see if Aaron Rodgers is healthy enough to play. If he isn’t, the Dolphins D becomes instantly much more attractive as a fantasy option.
TE Tony Moeaki (KC) vs. IND: I talked about him last week, and he is becoming Matt Cassel’s favorite target. The Texans as mentioned don’t stop the pass very well, or opposing Tight Ends for that matter, making Moeaki a good pickup for those of you who have lost Jermichael Finley (me!)
WR Kenny Britt (TEN) vs. JAX MON: I’ve already mentioned that the Jaguars don’t stop the pass very well, and Kenny Britt will reap the benefits of this.
Good Luck in Week 6!
Byes: CIN, ARZ, BUF, CAR
Who to Start:
QB Vince Young (TEN) vs. JAX MON: The Jaguars pass D is 29th in the league against the pass, and due to Chris Johnson taking up a lot of attention of opposing defenses, Young can and will perform well.
RB Ahmad Bradshaw (NYG) vs. DET: The Lions rushing defense is not very good, and the Giants who like to run the ball plenty often, will see to it that Bradshaw will have a great game, despite a bum ankle.
WR Mike Wallace (PIT) vs. CLE: With Big Ben’s return to the Steelers huddle, all of the Steelers wide outs are now very viable players. Mike Wallace is the Steelers’ deep threat, and due to that, Ben will target Wallace often. It helps to play Cleveland also.
WR: Dwayne Bowe (KC) vs. HOU: I know that Dwayne Bowe has been dropping the ball way too often for Chiefs fans, but on Sunday, he’ll be facing the Texans who have the worst pass D in the league.
TE Tony Gonzalez (ATL) vs. PHI: Despite the Eagles D playing better of late, they still always seem to struggle to defend Tight Ends, and Tony Gonzalez is still one of the best around.
DEF Chicago vs. SEA: The Seahawks have been truly dreadful on the road this year, looking bad in both games at Denver and St. Louis, and they’ll struggle against a resurgent Bears unit.
Who to Sit:
QB Sam Bradford (STL) vs. SD: After a very bad game against Detroit of all teams last week, he won’t be able to rebound easily against a San Diego pass D that has been causing trouble for all opponents this year.
RB Ronnie Brown (MIA) vs. GB: Despite the Pack being battered and bruised, they’ve still allowed the 3rd fewest fantasy points to opposing backs this year, which makes this matchup not appealing for Brown’s owners.
WR Braylon Edwards (NYJ) vs. DEN: If you have better options, use them because Edwards is going up against one of the best cover corners in the league, Champ Bailey.
WR Deion Branch (NE) vs. BAL: Despite him being traded to New England over the past week which improves his fantasy value greatly, I would recommend sitting him against Baltimore, who still has one of the best D’s in the NFL.
TE Marcedes Lewis (JAX) vs. TEN MON: His (few) owners have been well rewarded with his 5 TD’s, 2nd in the NFL amongst Tight Ends behind Antonio Gates. However, this matchup doesn’t favor Lewis, as he only has 1 TD against the Titans in his 8 career games.
DEF Washington vs. IND: Last week the Colts were held in check by the Chiefs, but this won’t continue against a Redskin D that hasn’t been too great against opposing QB’s this year.
3 Super Sleepers for Week 6:
DEF Miami vs. GB: Watch the injury reports to see if Aaron Rodgers is healthy enough to play. If he isn’t, the Dolphins D becomes instantly much more attractive as a fantasy option.
TE Tony Moeaki (KC) vs. IND: I talked about him last week, and he is becoming Matt Cassel’s favorite target. The Texans as mentioned don’t stop the pass very well, or opposing Tight Ends for that matter, making Moeaki a good pickup for those of you who have lost Jermichael Finley (me!)
WR Kenny Britt (TEN) vs. JAX MON: I’ve already mentioned that the Jaguars don’t stop the pass very well, and Kenny Britt will reap the benefits of this.
Good Luck in Week 6!
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
LCS Previews
Well, my ALDS and World Series picks failed miserably. So now, I must remedy this situation by doing a much better prognosticating job.
ALCS: NYY over TEX in 6 games.
The New York Yankees shocked me a bit in the way they beat up on Minnesota. Maybe it was the Twins psychological feelings that they couldn't beat the Yankees in the playoffs, or their overall losing streak, I don't know, but whatever it was, the Yankees took advantage of it. They came back in both games in Minneapolis, and soundly beat the Twins in the Bronx. Their starting pitching, a major question mark coming into the series, was great. Andy Pettitte continues his playoff dominance, despite his injuries, and the Yanks look like a team that can win the World Series again. Texas on the other hand, really shocked me. Cliff Lee continues his playoff dominance, and C.J Wilson provided good pitching for the Rangers in game 2. They won on the road, which they don't have to do in this series, but will bode well for the World Series. However, Cliff Lee won't pitch until game 3 in New York, so the Yankees have a chance to jump out in the series early. Both teams have good offenses, but what tips the scales for me is the Yankee bullpen, which has way fewer question marks. Neftali Feliz blew both games in Texas, and Mariano Riviera continues to be his normal, dominant self. That is what tips the scales for me. The Rangers didn't fare well at home, and they have 4 games in Arlington. The Yankees look so good right now, so it is impossible for me to pick against them.
NLCS: PHI over SF in 6 games.
I did already talk about this series before, but I will enlighten you a bit more on why I believe the Phillies will win. Both teams have amazing pitching, and both are amazingly consistent. But, the Phillies have a much better offense. The Giants O didn't really show up against the Braves, but their pitching was enough to send them to their first NLCS since 2002. I don't think the Giants can win if their offense was like that. The Phillies have shown some vulnerability, mainly Roy Oswalt, but I think the Giants can exploit some of those weaknesses if their offense shows up. This series is really about whose offense is better, and the Phillies O is much better right now. The Giants have the pitching to make this a series, but the Phillies offense is just too good for the Giants to overcome.
Here's hoping that these picks do better, and FOX likes them!
ALCS: NYY over TEX in 6 games.
The New York Yankees shocked me a bit in the way they beat up on Minnesota. Maybe it was the Twins psychological feelings that they couldn't beat the Yankees in the playoffs, or their overall losing streak, I don't know, but whatever it was, the Yankees took advantage of it. They came back in both games in Minneapolis, and soundly beat the Twins in the Bronx. Their starting pitching, a major question mark coming into the series, was great. Andy Pettitte continues his playoff dominance, despite his injuries, and the Yanks look like a team that can win the World Series again. Texas on the other hand, really shocked me. Cliff Lee continues his playoff dominance, and C.J Wilson provided good pitching for the Rangers in game 2. They won on the road, which they don't have to do in this series, but will bode well for the World Series. However, Cliff Lee won't pitch until game 3 in New York, so the Yankees have a chance to jump out in the series early. Both teams have good offenses, but what tips the scales for me is the Yankee bullpen, which has way fewer question marks. Neftali Feliz blew both games in Texas, and Mariano Riviera continues to be his normal, dominant self. That is what tips the scales for me. The Rangers didn't fare well at home, and they have 4 games in Arlington. The Yankees look so good right now, so it is impossible for me to pick against them.
NLCS: PHI over SF in 6 games.
I did already talk about this series before, but I will enlighten you a bit more on why I believe the Phillies will win. Both teams have amazing pitching, and both are amazingly consistent. But, the Phillies have a much better offense. The Giants O didn't really show up against the Braves, but their pitching was enough to send them to their first NLCS since 2002. I don't think the Giants can win if their offense was like that. The Phillies have shown some vulnerability, mainly Roy Oswalt, but I think the Giants can exploit some of those weaknesses if their offense shows up. This series is really about whose offense is better, and the Phillies O is much better right now. The Giants have the pitching to make this a series, but the Phillies offense is just too good for the Giants to overcome.
Here's hoping that these picks do better, and FOX likes them!
Brett Favre: Such a Distraction
It seems every time we can calm down with the Vikings, something new pops up. Whether it is Randy Moss returning to his first team, or whether it's their 1-3 record, we can never move on from them, and what surrounds the team. They've always been a source of distractions for a long time. And, we can now add another one to that list. That is the Brett Favre textgate saga, crazy as that sounds. Wherever Favre has gone since leaving Green Bay, he seems to bring more distractions than promise with him.
How crazy is this story. Allegedly 2 years ago, Favre sent tons of racy texts and images to a former New York Jet sideline reporter. At the beginning of this saga, Favre addressed the report by saying, "I'm not getting into that. I've got my hands full with the Jets and am trying to get some timing down with our guys, so that's all I'm going to discuss." At the beginning, it seems like it won't become a major distraction for a Vikings team who just acquired Randy Moss. But then, as the week progressed, things got worse and worse for Favre and the Vikes. It was not known of the connection between Favre and the texts, until recently, when Favre dodged the entire issue in his press conferences. What to make of these statements is up to everyone to interpret for themselves. It got worse when the league announced it was aggressively investigating these allegations, and if it was true that Favre was found guilty, he'd be suspended.
What a way for Favre to break his ironman streak, a suspension. He has played through almost every injury under the sun, and started every game since Don Majowski got hurt in 1992, and he'll lose his streak, by a suspension. What a hit to his career. We still have no clue as to if this is true or not, and it may be awhile until we find out. But, this is just another of the distractions Favre has brought along with him since his Michael Jordan moves in August of 2008, 2009, and 2010. The tearful press conference when he retired the first time could melt your heart with sadness that we would never see this legend play again. And then, he comes back to play with the Jets, and it didn't go as well as the Jets had hoped (it cost Eric Mangini his job). Then, he retires again, and tempts the Vikings until the end of training camp in Mankato, until he shows up. We endured another entire offseason of wondering if Favre would come back again. He did, and we know how that ended up.
And this summer, we went through the same shtick again. We waited patiently for his answer, and it seemed he was actually going to hang it up. But of course, that wasn't true. And then, the Vikings started very poorly, and it seemed that Favre may have overstayed his comeback. And finally, this comes up. He's been taking questions from the media for it seems all of his life, and he dodges this question. What has this done to everybody who has done it before? It only made the situation worse. Brett Favre's supposed breakdown in the locker room prior to the Jets game has only heightened the suspicion surrounding Favre. He broke down because he was sorry for being a distraction and yet in the game where he passed the 70,000 yard passing marker, and threw his 500th career TD pass to Randy Moss of all players, the biggest story was textgate.
Brett Favre has done many amazing things in his career, many shocking and stupefying things (He did what?), and those which we've never seen before in the NFL. This is one of those shocking things. Whether it is true or not, this whole story never ceases to amaze me. Even in Brett Favre's ultimate triumphs outside Green Bay, he still is brought down by his own actions. Last year, it was his ankle, this year, Textgate. Maybe Favre should have retired after all.
How crazy is this story. Allegedly 2 years ago, Favre sent tons of racy texts and images to a former New York Jet sideline reporter. At the beginning of this saga, Favre addressed the report by saying, "I'm not getting into that. I've got my hands full with the Jets and am trying to get some timing down with our guys, so that's all I'm going to discuss." At the beginning, it seems like it won't become a major distraction for a Vikings team who just acquired Randy Moss. But then, as the week progressed, things got worse and worse for Favre and the Vikes. It was not known of the connection between Favre and the texts, until recently, when Favre dodged the entire issue in his press conferences. What to make of these statements is up to everyone to interpret for themselves. It got worse when the league announced it was aggressively investigating these allegations, and if it was true that Favre was found guilty, he'd be suspended.
What a way for Favre to break his ironman streak, a suspension. He has played through almost every injury under the sun, and started every game since Don Majowski got hurt in 1992, and he'll lose his streak, by a suspension. What a hit to his career. We still have no clue as to if this is true or not, and it may be awhile until we find out. But, this is just another of the distractions Favre has brought along with him since his Michael Jordan moves in August of 2008, 2009, and 2010. The tearful press conference when he retired the first time could melt your heart with sadness that we would never see this legend play again. And then, he comes back to play with the Jets, and it didn't go as well as the Jets had hoped (it cost Eric Mangini his job). Then, he retires again, and tempts the Vikings until the end of training camp in Mankato, until he shows up. We endured another entire offseason of wondering if Favre would come back again. He did, and we know how that ended up.
And this summer, we went through the same shtick again. We waited patiently for his answer, and it seemed he was actually going to hang it up. But of course, that wasn't true. And then, the Vikings started very poorly, and it seemed that Favre may have overstayed his comeback. And finally, this comes up. He's been taking questions from the media for it seems all of his life, and he dodges this question. What has this done to everybody who has done it before? It only made the situation worse. Brett Favre's supposed breakdown in the locker room prior to the Jets game has only heightened the suspicion surrounding Favre. He broke down because he was sorry for being a distraction and yet in the game where he passed the 70,000 yard passing marker, and threw his 500th career TD pass to Randy Moss of all players, the biggest story was textgate.
Brett Favre has done many amazing things in his career, many shocking and stupefying things (He did what?), and those which we've never seen before in the NFL. This is one of those shocking things. Whether it is true or not, this whole story never ceases to amaze me. Even in Brett Favre's ultimate triumphs outside Green Bay, he still is brought down by his own actions. Last year, it was his ankle, this year, Textgate. Maybe Favre should have retired after all.
Thursday, October 7, 2010
Week 5 Fantasy Advice
Did you have a good week 4? One of my teams did (I had the New England DST). If you only care about baseball right now, your team will suffer. My advice: read up!
Byes: NE, MIA, PIT, SEA
Who to Start:
QB: Eli Manning (NYG) vs. HOU: The Texans pass D has been less than stellar this year, allowing the most passing yards per game, and the 2nd most fantasy points per game to opposing QB’s. This is an extremely good start this week, in the face of Houston’s pressure.
RB: Jamaal Charles (KC) vs. IND: Boy has the Colts run D been playing badly. Last week they allowed 174 yards to the Jaguars, and the Chiefs have a great 1-2 punch at RB. Thomas Jones gets the bulk of the carries, but Charles gets the most yards, so he’s the one to start.
WR: Mark Clayton (STL) vs. DET: I know, a Ram to start? What’s the world come to? Well, Sam Bradford has looked very good, and that makes Mark Clayton a good starting option. He’s facing Detroit, who isn’t known for their pass D, so keep him in your starting lineup.
WR: Marques Colston (NO) vs. ARZ: I know he hasn’t had a good start to the year, but Arizona’s D is playing awful right now (see 41 hung on them by the Chargers). New Orleans has to have a good offensive game eventually, so why not against a bad pass D like Arizona.
TE: Dustin Keller (NYJ) vs. MIN MON: I know the Vikings have a good defense always, but they don’t stop the opposing Tight End very well. Keller has had the 2nd best season for all TE’s this season, so he should be starting in every league this week.
DEF: Atlanta vs. CLE: The Falcons may have gotten a break seeing that Jake Delhomme will be back under center for the Browns. He has turned it over plenty often in the last few seasons, so look for the Falcon D to be opportunistic.
Who to Sit:
QB: Donovan McNabb (WSH) vs. GB: Outside of his great game against the Texans, McNabb has done little for his owners this year. Against a pretty good Packer pass D, that will continue.
RB: Marion Barber (DAL) vs. TEN: The Titans have been very stout against the run this year, so look for Dallas to try to throw the ball against the Titans this week, leaving Barber with fewer carries, and therefore, fewer points.
WR: Malcolm Floyd (SD) vs. OAK: The perennial starter in my lineups for the first 3 weeks and now he’s here. Why? He’s going up against Nnamdi Asomugha.
WR: Larry Fitzgerald (ARZ) vs. NO: I’m not saying sit him always, but with a rookie now under center for Arizona, look for Fitzgerald to see fewer balls thrown his way, especially against a good New Orleans secondary.
TE: Tony Moeaki (KC) vs. IND: Who? The new great Tight End for the Chiefs, that’s who he is. He’s a good player for the Chiefs, but don’t start him against the Colts, who have allowed the fewest yards to Tight Ends this year.
DEF: Tennessee vs. DAL: Tony Romo has had 2 weeks to prepare for the Titans, and he looked good against Houston 2 weeks ago. Look elsewhere for a D to start this week.
3 Super Sleepers for Week 5:
QB David Garrard (JAX) vs. BUF: Why would I ever say to start Mr. Inconsistent? Well, he’s playing against a pretty bad pass D, and an overall pretty bad D. Not a starter every week, but this week, he’s not a bad choice.
QB Shaun Hill (DET) vs. STL: Another case of not-so-great QB, against not-so-great pass D. Hill lit up the Packers last week, and there is no reason to think he won’t do that this week.
TE Jeremy Shockey (NO) vs. ARZ: He had a bad start, but in his last 2 games, he has 14 catches for 136 yards plus a TD. Arizona’s D is bad, so look for Shockey to have a good game.
Good Luck in Week 5!
Byes: NE, MIA, PIT, SEA
Who to Start:
QB: Eli Manning (NYG) vs. HOU: The Texans pass D has been less than stellar this year, allowing the most passing yards per game, and the 2nd most fantasy points per game to opposing QB’s. This is an extremely good start this week, in the face of Houston’s pressure.
RB: Jamaal Charles (KC) vs. IND: Boy has the Colts run D been playing badly. Last week they allowed 174 yards to the Jaguars, and the Chiefs have a great 1-2 punch at RB. Thomas Jones gets the bulk of the carries, but Charles gets the most yards, so he’s the one to start.
WR: Mark Clayton (STL) vs. DET: I know, a Ram to start? What’s the world come to? Well, Sam Bradford has looked very good, and that makes Mark Clayton a good starting option. He’s facing Detroit, who isn’t known for their pass D, so keep him in your starting lineup.
WR: Marques Colston (NO) vs. ARZ: I know he hasn’t had a good start to the year, but Arizona’s D is playing awful right now (see 41 hung on them by the Chargers). New Orleans has to have a good offensive game eventually, so why not against a bad pass D like Arizona.
TE: Dustin Keller (NYJ) vs. MIN MON: I know the Vikings have a good defense always, but they don’t stop the opposing Tight End very well. Keller has had the 2nd best season for all TE’s this season, so he should be starting in every league this week.
DEF: Atlanta vs. CLE: The Falcons may have gotten a break seeing that Jake Delhomme will be back under center for the Browns. He has turned it over plenty often in the last few seasons, so look for the Falcon D to be opportunistic.
Who to Sit:
QB: Donovan McNabb (WSH) vs. GB: Outside of his great game against the Texans, McNabb has done little for his owners this year. Against a pretty good Packer pass D, that will continue.
RB: Marion Barber (DAL) vs. TEN: The Titans have been very stout against the run this year, so look for Dallas to try to throw the ball against the Titans this week, leaving Barber with fewer carries, and therefore, fewer points.
WR: Malcolm Floyd (SD) vs. OAK: The perennial starter in my lineups for the first 3 weeks and now he’s here. Why? He’s going up against Nnamdi Asomugha.
WR: Larry Fitzgerald (ARZ) vs. NO: I’m not saying sit him always, but with a rookie now under center for Arizona, look for Fitzgerald to see fewer balls thrown his way, especially against a good New Orleans secondary.
TE: Tony Moeaki (KC) vs. IND: Who? The new great Tight End for the Chiefs, that’s who he is. He’s a good player for the Chiefs, but don’t start him against the Colts, who have allowed the fewest yards to Tight Ends this year.
DEF: Tennessee vs. DAL: Tony Romo has had 2 weeks to prepare for the Titans, and he looked good against Houston 2 weeks ago. Look elsewhere for a D to start this week.
3 Super Sleepers for Week 5:
QB David Garrard (JAX) vs. BUF: Why would I ever say to start Mr. Inconsistent? Well, he’s playing against a pretty bad pass D, and an overall pretty bad D. Not a starter every week, but this week, he’s not a bad choice.
QB Shaun Hill (DET) vs. STL: Another case of not-so-great QB, against not-so-great pass D. Hill lit up the Packers last week, and there is no reason to think he won’t do that this week.
TE Jeremy Shockey (NO) vs. ARZ: He had a bad start, but in his last 2 games, he has 14 catches for 136 yards plus a TD. Arizona’s D is bad, so look for Shockey to have a good game.
Good Luck in Week 5!
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
My 2010 MLB Playoff Predictions
ALDS:
TB over TEX in 4 games. Rays have too much offense for the Rangers and despite the 1-2 punch that the Rangers have with Cliff Lee and C.J Wilson, the Rangers overall don't have much playoff experience. The Rays do. They should have little trouble winning this series.
MIN over NYY in 5 games. I think the Yankees decision to go with only 3 starters will bite them early and often. They will be worn out if they do make it far, but I don't think they'll get there. Despite the fact the Yankees own the Twins in the playoffs Minnesota has a great home field advantage, and a less shaky starting rotation. Yanks have enough to make it close, but Twins win.
NLDS:
PHI over CIN in 3 games. The Phillies are too good to lose here. They went 5-2 against the Reds in the regular season and no Reds player has substantial playoff experience. The Phillies do, being there 4 years in a row. Too much pitching by the Phillies will doom the Reds.
SF over ATL in 4 games. We can say that Atlanta backed into the postseason, and they have not looked good in September and October. But, the Giants have looked great. Their pitching has been awesome, and with that, their offense doesn't have to do too much to lead them to victory.
ALCS:
TB over MIN in 6 games. Here, Minnesota doesn't have the home field, and that will hurt them here. The Rays pitching is much better than the Twins pitching, and despite the fact that Minnesota does have a good offense, they won't cope well with the Rays great pitching. From top to bottom, I think Tampa is just a better team overall.
NLCS:
PHI over SF in 6 games. The Giants pitching will keep them in this series but the fact that the Phillies have the much better, and much more productive offense will give them more games than the Giants pitching will get them. If San Francisco can get some production from guys like Buster Posey, Pablo Sandoval, and Aubrey Huff in every game, they can beat the Phillies. But, I don't think that the offense will be there every game. The Giants will pose the biggest threat to the Phillies in the NL, but not big enough to take the pennant away.
2010 World Series:
TB over PHI in 7 games: Rematch of 2008 goes the other way here. The Rays are better than they were in 2008, and now they have the experience to boot. The Phillies have the home field, but as we saw in '08, that didn't matter. The Rays have enough starting pitching and offense to keep them in games, and their middle relief is much better. By this point, teams will know how to beat up on the Phillies great starting pitching, and the Rays sure have the speed, and power to do so. This will be an extremely entertaining series, but when it comes down to game 7 in Philly, I really do think that the Rays are the better team. They will win the 2010 World Series.
TB over TEX in 4 games. Rays have too much offense for the Rangers and despite the 1-2 punch that the Rangers have with Cliff Lee and C.J Wilson, the Rangers overall don't have much playoff experience. The Rays do. They should have little trouble winning this series.
MIN over NYY in 5 games. I think the Yankees decision to go with only 3 starters will bite them early and often. They will be worn out if they do make it far, but I don't think they'll get there. Despite the fact the Yankees own the Twins in the playoffs Minnesota has a great home field advantage, and a less shaky starting rotation. Yanks have enough to make it close, but Twins win.
NLDS:
PHI over CIN in 3 games. The Phillies are too good to lose here. They went 5-2 against the Reds in the regular season and no Reds player has substantial playoff experience. The Phillies do, being there 4 years in a row. Too much pitching by the Phillies will doom the Reds.
SF over ATL in 4 games. We can say that Atlanta backed into the postseason, and they have not looked good in September and October. But, the Giants have looked great. Their pitching has been awesome, and with that, their offense doesn't have to do too much to lead them to victory.
ALCS:
TB over MIN in 6 games. Here, Minnesota doesn't have the home field, and that will hurt them here. The Rays pitching is much better than the Twins pitching, and despite the fact that Minnesota does have a good offense, they won't cope well with the Rays great pitching. From top to bottom, I think Tampa is just a better team overall.
NLCS:
PHI over SF in 6 games. The Giants pitching will keep them in this series but the fact that the Phillies have the much better, and much more productive offense will give them more games than the Giants pitching will get them. If San Francisco can get some production from guys like Buster Posey, Pablo Sandoval, and Aubrey Huff in every game, they can beat the Phillies. But, I don't think that the offense will be there every game. The Giants will pose the biggest threat to the Phillies in the NL, but not big enough to take the pennant away.
2010 World Series:
TB over PHI in 7 games: Rematch of 2008 goes the other way here. The Rays are better than they were in 2008, and now they have the experience to boot. The Phillies have the home field, but as we saw in '08, that didn't matter. The Rays have enough starting pitching and offense to keep them in games, and their middle relief is much better. By this point, teams will know how to beat up on the Phillies great starting pitching, and the Rays sure have the speed, and power to do so. This will be an extremely entertaining series, but when it comes down to game 7 in Philly, I really do think that the Rays are the better team. They will win the 2010 World Series.
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