TheDailyBlitz.com: October 2009 Archives

Fantasy Quarterback Rankings - Week 8

Every week, we provide consensus fantasy football rankings per position (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, DEF) based on that week's matchup.

How do we arrive at our rankings?

We average out rankings from various sources in an effort to reduce the variability between mainstream sites. We include ESPN, Yahoo! and CBS Sports in our rankings.

Here are the top 10 quarterbacks in week 8:

1. Peyton Manning, Colts (vs San Francisco)
2. Drew Brees, Saints (vs Atlanta)
3. Aaron Rodgers, Packers (vs Minnesota)
4. Matt Schaub, Texans (at Buffalo)
5. Tony Romo, Cowboys (vs Seattle)
6. Philip Rivers, Chargers (vs Oakland)
7. Jay Cutler, Bears (vs Cleveland)
8. Kurt Warner, Cardinals (vs Carolina)
9. David Garrard, Jaguars (at Tennessee)
10. Brett Favre, Vikings (at Green Bay)

See full list of top 25 quarterbacks for week 8.

More rankings: top 40 RBs | top 50 WRs | top 20 TEs | top 20 kickers | top 20 team defenses

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 05:08 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Running Back Rankings - Week 8

Every week, we provide consensus fantasy football rankings per position (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, DEF) based on that week's matchup.

How do we arrive at our rankings?

We average out rankings from various sources in an effort to reduce the variability between mainstream sites. We include ESPN, Yahoo! and CBS Sports in our rankings.

Here are the top 10 running backs in week 8:

1. Adrian Peterson, Vikings (at Green Bay)
2. Maurice Jones-Drew, Jaguars (at Tennessee)
3. Steven Jackson, Rams (at Detroit)
4. Steve Slaton, Texans (at Buffalo)
5. Ronnie Brown, Dolphins (at NY Jets)
6. Chris Johnson, Titans (vs Jacksonville)
7. Ray Rice, Ravens (vs Denver)
8. Matt Forte, Bears (vs Cleveland)
9. Kevin Smith, Lions (vs St. Louis)
10. Michael Turner, Falcons (at New Orleans)

See full list of top 40 running backs for week 8.

More rankings: top 25 QBs | top 50 WRs | top 20 TEs | top 20 kickers | top 20 team defenses

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 04:48 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Wide Receiver Rankings - Week 8

Every week, we provide consensus fantasy football rankings per position (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, DEF) based on that week's matchup.

How do we arrive at our rankings?

We average out rankings from various sources in an effort to reduce the variability between mainstream sites. We include ESPN, Yahoo! and CBS Sports in our rankings.

Here are the top 10 fantasy wide receivers in week 8:

1. Larry Fitzgerald, Cardinals (vs Carolina)
2. Marques Colston, Saints (vs Atlanta)
3. Reggie Wayne, Colts (vs San Francisco)
4. Mike Sims-Walker, Jaguars (at Tennessee)
5. Miles Austin, Cowboys (vs Seattle)
6. Brandon Marshall, Broncos (at Baltimore)
7. Vincent Jackson, Chargers (vs Oakland)
8. Roddy White, Falcons (at New Orleans)
9. Andre Johnson, Texans (at Buffalo)
10. Sidney Rice, Vikings (at Green Bay)

See full list of top 50 wide receivers for week 8.

More rankings: top 25 QBs | top 40 RBs | top 20 TEs | top 20 kickers | top 20 team defenses

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 04:40 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Tight End Rankings - Week 8

Every week, we provide fantasy football rankings per position (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, DEF) based on that week's matchup.

How do we arrive at our rankings?

We average out rankings from various sources in an effort to reduce the variability between mainstream sites. We include ESPN, Yahoo! and CBS Sports in our rankings.

Here are the top 10 tight ends in week 8:

1. Dallas Clark, Colts (vs San Francisco)
2. Owen Daniels, Texans (at Buffalo)
3. Antonio Gates, Chargers (vs Oakland)
4. Jeremy Shockey, Saints (vs Atlanta)
5. Brent Celek, Eagles (vs NY Giants)
6. Jason Witten, Cowboys (vs Seattle)
7. Tony Gonzalez, Falcons (at New Orleans)
8. Visanthe Shiancoe, Vikings (at Green Bay)
9. Greg Olsen, Bears (vs Cleveland)
10. Vernon Davis, 49ers (at Indianapolis)

See full list of top 20 tight ends for week 8.

More rankings: top 25 QBs | top 40 RBs | top 50 WRs | top 20 kickers | top 20 team defenses

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 04:33 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Defense Rankings - Week 8

Every week, we provide consensus fantasy football rankings per position (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, DEF) based on that week's matchup.

How do we arrive at our rankings?

We average out rankings from various sources in an effort to reduce the variability between mainstream sites. We include ESPN, Yahoo! and CBS Sports in our rankings.

Here are the top 10 team defenses in week 8:

1. San Diego Chargers (vs Oakland)
2. Arizona Cardinals (vs Carolina)
3. Indianapolis Colts (vs San Francisco)
4. Chicago Bears (vs Cleveland)
5. Dallas Cowboys (vs Seattle)
6. Philadelphia Eagles (vs NY Giants)
7. Minnesota Vikings (at Green Bay)
8. New Orleans Saints (vs Atlanta)
9. New York Giants (at Philadelphia)
10. Baltimore Ravens (vs Denver)

See full list of top 20 defenses for week 8.

More rankings: top 25 QBs | top 40 RBs | top 50 WRs | top 20 TEs | top 20 kickers

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 04:26 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Kicker Rankings - Week 8

Every week, we provide consensus fantasy football rankings per position (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, DEF) based on that week's matchup.

How do we arrive at our rankings?

We average out rankings from various sources in an effort to reduce the variability between mainstream sites. We include ESPN, Yahoo! and CBS Sports in our rankings.

Here are the top 10 kickers in week 8:

1. Nate Kaeding, Chargers (vs Oakland)
2. Mason Crosby, Packers (vs Minnesota)
3. John Carney, Saints (vs Atlanta)
4. Robbie Gould, Bears (vs Cleveland)
5. Ryan Longwell, Vikings (at Green Bay)
6. Josh Scobee, Jaguars (at Tennessee)
7. Nick Folk, Cowboys (vs Seattle)
8. David Akers, Eagles (vs NY Giants)
9. Lawrence Tynes, Giants (at Philadelphia)
10. Rob Bironas, Titans (vs Jacksonville)

See full list of top 20 kickers for week 8.

More rankings: top 25 QBs | top 40 RBs | top 50 WRs | top 20 TEs | top 20 team defenses

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 04:21 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

The Weekly Blitz - Week 8

Every week I pick three games against the spread (ATS). Here are my three picks for week 8:

Texans -3.5 (over Bills): In the first three games of the season, teams ran all over the Houston Texans. In their past four games, however, the Texans have allowed only 45, 44, 46 and 59 yards rushing. In fact, they are the only team to hold Cedric Benson, the NFL rushing leader, to under 50 yards rushing. It won't be much easier to the Bills to move the ball through the air as only four teams rank lowerin offensive passing yards and only four teams have allowed more sacks. Meanwhile, the Texans have scored 20+ points in every game except week one and it appears as though stud receiver Andre Johnson (lung contusion) will play Sunday. Although Steve Slaton is suffering a sophomore slump (48.7 rushing yards per game), the Bills are allowing a league-worst 172.4 rushing ypg.

Ravens -3 (over Broncos): Both teams began the season by winning their first three games. Since then, the Broncos have won three more games to improve to 6-0. On the other hand, the Ravens have lost three games to fall to 3-3. But those three losses were decided within the last couple of minutes (or seconds) of the game and were to three division leaders (Patriots, Bengals and Vikings). In other words, the Ravens are a better team than their record indicates. And they are too good to lose four consecutive games, aren't they? At home, the Ravens are 38-13 straight up since 2003. The Ravens are 11-8 against the spread (ATS) at home in the past three years while the Broncos are 8-11 ATS on the road during that span.

Titans -3 (over Jaguars): I'll admit it. It scares me to pick a winless favorite coming off a 59-0 shutout that will now be led by Vince Young. It really scares me. And as he "just wanted to feel like a winner," coach Jeff Fisher wore a Peyton Manning jersey at a charity event during the bye week. Joking or not, it was also intended to send a message to his team. The Titans have been embarrassed and have had two weeks to soak in the embarrassment. Despite losing Albert Haynesworth (via free agency) and having an injury-depleted secondary, this was last year's top seed in the AFC. And now their pride and manhood have been challenged. They have to respond at home against a division rival, right?

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 09:47 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Bush says Saints can go undefeated

In order to finish with a perfect 16-0 record in an NFL regular season, it's a mathematical requirement to start the season 6-0, which the New Orleans Saints have done.

For that matter, the Indianapolis Colts and Denver Broncos have done so as well.

The difference between the Saints and the other two teams is neither the Colts nor the Broncos have a player on their team predicting they will finish 16-0.

The Saints do.

In an interview with Tim Montemayor of Sporting News Radio, Saints running back Reggie Bush was asked his team's prospects for an undefeated season.

"Of course my first answer is going to be, 'We're going to take it one game at a time, and that's our mentality" (laughs). I have to say it--if I don't say it, then I'm going to get some hell from teammates. But can we go undefeated? Yes, I do think we have the players, the chemistry, we have the heart and dedication, the coaching staff, we have the players and ..."

Even though the Saints play three home games (Falcons, Saints and Cowboys) out of their four remaining games against opponents with a winning record, it's way too early to be discussing an undefeated season.

While an undefeated season is highly unlikely, he made an even more unlikely claim by saying: "... Once I do win an NFL MVP, once we do win a Super Bowl, once I am in the Pro Bowl, it will be that much more special because of all the criticism that I went through."

Despite his outrageous assertions during the interview, Bush is handling his reduced role within the offense with maturity.

"It is an adjustment, because we're all competitors in this locker room, " Bush said, per Jeff Duncan of the New Orleans Times Picayune. "We all want to be the guy. But right now it's just about 'team first, team first, team first.' Everything else is second."

Bush, who was drafted second overall in 2006, is posting career-low averages in rushing yards per game (29.2) and receiving yards per game (24.0) this season.

The Saints host the Falcons for Monday Night Football this week.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 08:49 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

LJ ordered to stay away despite apology

Chiefs running back Larry Johnson has apologized for using a gay slur directed towards one of his Twitter followers Sunday and towards reporters yesterday.

"I regret my actions. The words were used by me in frustration, and they were not appropriate," he said through a spokesman. "I did not intend to offend anyone, but that is no excuse for what I said."

However, his apology may be too little, too late as the Chiefs have told Johnson to stay away from team activities and practices while the team/league investigates the matter.

Perhaps LJ thought his antics would get him a one-way ticket out of KC.

But as former Chiefs coach Marty Schottenheimer asks on Sirius NFL Radio (via the Kansas City Star), who would want him?

"Maybe he thinks that he can force his way out (of Kansas City). Let me ask you this, of the other 31 teams in the National Football League, who in the world is going to bring him into their locker room? ... The guy doesn’t have the skill level to warrant the kind of b.s. that they’re putting up with out there and I would not be surprised to see them run him right out of town."

It was roughly a year ago that he was apologizing in a similar manner for several arrests.

And next month, Johnson turns 30, which is not a good age for running backs. However, Johnson has seen a sharp drop in his production since 2005 and 2006 when he was an elite back. He is averaging only 2.7 yards per carry this year.

Jamaal Charles, on the other hand, is averaging 5.0 yards per carry this year and he averaged 5.3 yards per carry last year.

Even if the Chiefs don't release or suspend Johnson, it is very likely that Charles will see a substantial bump in touches going forward.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 10:17 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Cowboys sign Ware to six-year extension

DeMarcus Ware will be a Dallas Cowboy until 2015.

Or, as Cowboys owner Jerry Jones puts it: "This is a Cowboy, for all practical purposes, for the rest of his days."

Ware and the Cowboys agreed to a six-year contract extension worth $78 million, of which $40 million is guaranteed.

"He's got all the things it takes and he utilizes them and he works hard at it," [Coach Wade] Phillips said. "He's only going to get better. I don't know if he's going to get more sacks than ever, but I mean he's just going to get better, because he works so hard at what he does."

Last year, Ware led the league in sacks with 20. For his career, Ware has 57.5 sacks in 70 games.

After struggling a bit early in the season, Ware has four sacks in the past two games despite having a stress fracture in his foot.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 11:37 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Raiders break record for worst home loss

There is typical Raiders' bad. And then there is record-breaking Raiders' bad.

Today, Raiders' fans got the latter.

In today's 38-0 shutout loss at the hands of the New York Jets, the Raiders set a record for the worst home loss in franchise history, per Jerry McDonald of the Oakland Tribune.

If you're a glass-half-full person, the good news is that the Raiders disappointed fewer fans than normal. There were only 39,354 fans in attendance, which is their worst home crowd since 1968.

During their record-setting performance, the Raiders benched "franchise" (in Al Davis' eyes) quarterback JaMarcus Russell, who coach Tom Cable says will start next week, for back-up Bruce Gradkowski.

"I've never been in that situation," Russell said. "It was kind of shocking to me at first. I felt like [Coach Tom Cable] thought his decision was the right thing to do. Once Bruce got in, I became a cheerleader. I had no problem with that."

Despite finding it "shocking," Russell isn't accepting any blame.

"I don't think it's me personally," Russell said, per David White of the San Francisco Chronicle. "I really don't. It's a bad combination of one guy doesn't do something right one time. ..."

It sounds like Cable needs to knock some sense into this guy.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 12:28 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

The Sunday Blitz

Eagles receiver Reggie Brown will active tomorrow against the Redskins with Kevin Curtis, who had another knee surgery yesterday, will be out for the foreseeable future.

The Giants streak of 38 games started by quarterback Eli Manning and their offensive line has ended with rookie William Beatty starting in place of Kareem McKenzie at right tackle.

Cowboys linebacker Bradie James was honored before today's game versus Atlanta for the work he and Foundation56 have done in their fight against breast cancer.

Panthers kicker John Kasay missed two field goals in a game for the first time since 2005.

Cowboys tight end Jason Witten is now tied with Mickey Shuler for ninth in receptions (462) all-time among tight ends.

49ers coach Mike Singletary said of QB Alex Smith, "Alex played a great second half. He had a great second half out there. I'm very proud of the way he played." Does Singletary go with Shaun Hill or Smith next week?

Dolphins quarterback Chad Henne threw two interceptions that were returned for scores in today's loss to the Saints.

Panthers QB Jake Delhomme said today's loss was "disappointing” and "crushing” after he threw three more interceptions against the Bills.

The three TD passes caught today by 49ers tight end Vernon Davis is a 49ers' franchise record for tight ends.

Not a bad encore for Cowboys receiver Miles Austin, who followed up his record-setting performance with 170 receiving yards against the Falcons.

And five of Austin's seven career touchdowns have been scores of 40+ yards.

Packers tight end Jermichael Finley suffered a sprained left knee in today's win over Cleveland and will have an MRI.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 11:58 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Cedric Benson runs all over former team

Bengals running back Cedric Benson, who said the Bears "blackballed" him after releasing him, got the better of his former team today.

However, Benson says that he wasn't looking to exact revenge against the Bears.

“I didn’t want to seek revenge,” Benson said, per Kevin Goheen of the Chicago Sun-Times. “Revenge was not a goal of mine – it’s not how I wanted to play against them.”

Nonetheless Benson finished the day with 189 rushing yards and a touchdown against what was the sixth-ranked rush defense. Entering today's game, the Bears had only allowed 88.4 rushing yards per game.

Barring a huge performance Monday night, Benson's performance was the biggest of the week. And it was eighth-most by a Bengal in team history, per Joe Reedy of the Cincinnati Enquirer.

The Bengals have a bye next week and then face the Baltimore Ravens at home.

In Benson's last game against the Ravens, he ended their streak of 39 consecutive games without allowing a 100-yard rusher.

Benson has been remarkably consistent despite facing some top rushing defenses, such as Baltimore, Pittsburgh and Chicago, and is a must start in fantasy leagues regardless of the matchup.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 11:23 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Leon Washington breaks leg, out for year (plus)

Jets running back Leon Washington fractured his right fibula and had emergency surgery after a player landed on his leg in today's game against the Raiders.

Per Rich Cimini of the NY Daily News, Washington is done for (at least) the year.

A player said, "I could see blood spurting out. I've never seen anything like that before," according to Cimini.

Washington, who was in the final year of his rookie contract, was second on the team in rushing (325 yards) and third on the team in receiving (131 yards) through six games.

Hopefully the injury is not career-threatening, especially considering Washington turned down a contract extension that would have paid him $5 million in guaranteed money plus had a $5 million clause for injury protection.

Meanwhile, rookie Shonn Greene led the team in rushing today with 144 yards and two touchdowns on 19 carries. Thomas Jones also ran for 121 yards and a touchdown on 26 carries.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 09:25 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Crabtree has more catches than Heyward-Bey already

When he made Maryland's Darrius Heyward-Bey (DHB) the first WR drafted in the 2009 NFL Draft, Oakland Raiders owner Al Davis, the P.T. Barnum of the NFL, simultaneously -- and indirectly -- gave the team across the bay both a gift and a headache.

Davis loves receivers who can run -- not necessarily those who can catch.

Heading into week seven, Heyward-Bey had only two receptions for 19 yards. In fact, his long reception is 20 yards. That, in turn, means that his short (for lack of a better word) reception was for -1 yard. So, technically, his production would be better if he only had one catch.

Michael Crabtree, the two-time Fred Biletnikoff winner, wanted DHB-type money. He didn't get it. But the 49ers eventually signed him and he played his first NFL game today (in week 7).

Crabtree finished with five catches and 56 yards.

As David White of the San Francisco Chronicle points out, Crabtree exceeded DHB's production by the third quarter of Crabtree's debut.

So unless DHB triples his 2009 output (to six catches for 57 yards), he will trail a guy -- who was a "lower" draft pick and has only played one game -- in both receptions and receiving yards.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 05:14 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Hill benched for Smith, 3 TDs for Davis

The San Francisco 49ers have benched quarterback Shaun Hill at halftime and have installed Alex Smith as their starter.

And Smith, who was the top overall draft pick in 2005, made the most of his opportunity.

The 49ers got out to a 21-0 deficit with Hill under center, but Smith led the Niners back to within a field goal.

Hill completed six of 11 passes for only 45 yards.

In his place, Smith completed 15 of 22 passes for 206 yards and three touchdowns. All of Smith's passing touchdowns were caught by tight end Vernon Davis.

Unfortunately for the Niners, Smith's last pass of the game was an interception by Eugene Wilson.

But he certaintly provided a spark for this offense and I wouldn't be surprised if he gets the start next week at Indianapolis.

Last year, I predicted a breakout year for Vernon Davis. I apparently I was one year too early. Davis now has 29 receptions, 355 yards and six touchdowns in six games.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 04:16 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Report: Antoine Winfield could miss up to 6 weeks

The Minnesota Vikings are putting their unbeaten record (6-0) to the test against the Pittsburgh Steelers and the NFL's leading passer (Ben Roethlisberger) and receiver (Hines Ward) today.

And they're doing so without cornerback Antoine Winfield, who has a broken foot, as the Vikings trail 10-7 at the half.

Unfortunately for the Vikings, it appears as though Winfield will miss the next four-to-six weeks, per ESPN's Chris Mortensen.

The Vikings face the Packers next week and then have a bye. After their bye, they face the Lions, Seahawks, Bears and Cardinals.

Here are the pass offense rankings for their opponents during the next six-week span: Packers (10), Lions (21), Seahawks (18), Bears (16) and Cardinals (6).

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 02:40 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Trade for Philip Rivers in your fantasy league...now

If Chargers QB Philip Rivers is on your fantasy roster, I have good news.

If Rivers is not on your fantasy roster, is your starting quarterback's first name Peyton, Tom or Drew? If your answer is "no," keep reading. (Actually, if your answer is "yes," keep reading, too.)

While the NFL trade deadline passed (Tuesday), most fantasy football leagues have a trade deadline that occurs in the next 3-4 weeks. One player I would suggest you target in a trade, if it's a team need, is Rivers, as I mentioned in this morning's Fantasy Football Weekly podcast.

In his past three games, Rivers has thrown for 831 yards, five touchdowns and no interceptions. On the season, he's quietly averaging over 300 passing yards per game.

Last year, he led the NFL in passer rating (105.5) and threw for 4009 yards, 34 touchdowns and only 11 interceptions.

More importantly than what he's done so far is the competition he will face going forward.

If your fantasy league has its championship game in week 16 (as most leagues do), look at the pass defenses he faces beginning in week 12: Chiefs (25th vs pass), Browns (23rd), Cowboys (26th), Bengals (28th) and Titans (32nd).

Note: ranks based on passing yards allowed per game through six weeks.

So in other words, as you make your playoff push/run, the toughest pass defense your fantasy QB will face is the Cleveland Browns.

And you would face the passing defense that allowed Tom Brady to throw five touchdowns in one quarter -- and, in a snowstorm nonetheless -- in your championship game.

Can it get much easier than that?

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 11:50 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Chad Ochocinco, Twitter's Walter Kronkite?

CNN's slogan is the "The Most Trusted Name in News."

Now Bengals WR Chad Ochocinco, who has more than 300,000 Twitter followers, is starting his own, well, news network named The Ochocinco News Network, or OCNN for short.

"If I break it, you might as well believe it," Ochocinco told The Associated Press (via ESPN). "I am that source now," he said. "I'll be the leak for all 32 teams."

"This is how I stay out of trouble," he said. "I don't go to clubs, I don't drink, I don't party."

Ochocinco, who has been refocused on the field, has 29 receptions for 455 yards (6th in NFL) and three touchdowns.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 08:05 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy RB Studs - Week 7

Here are five running backs that I expect to have a big week:

DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart, Panthers: Last week was like 2008 for this running back tandem. Each back had their breakout performance of the season and combined for 262 rushing yards and three touchdowns on 47 carries. What's different about this week? They face an even worse rushing defense. The Bills rank 32nd in the league against the run and have allowed four straight 100-yard rushers including 210 yards to Thomas Jones last week. No team allows more rushing yards per carry (5.3 yards) than the Bills. I expect to see a similar pass-to-run ratio as last week (17:48) with plenty of touches to go around for both to have a fantasy feast.

Marshawn Lynch, Bills: After missing the first three weeks due to a league-imposed suspension, Lynch could very well have his breakout performance of the season this week. Through three games, he's seen his number of carries increase from eight to 17 to 19. In each of the past two games, Lynch has been given four more carries per game than Fred Jackson. This week's opponent (Carolina) ranks 29th in the NFL against the run and is one of only two teams to give up 5+ yards per carry.

Ryan Grant, Packers: In the Packers' two blowout victories (vs St. Louis and Detroit), Grant received 26 and 24 carries, respectively. The Packers are favored by more than a touchdown over the Browns, who have the league's 30th-ranked run defense. Also, the only team to give up more rushing touchdowns than Cleveland (9) is Houston (10). Meanwhile, the Browns will be without D'Qwell Jackson, their leading tackler, for the remainder of the season.

Joseph Addai, Colts: Addai may not be racking up rushing yards, but he's racking up fantasy points. In fact, 36 running backs have more yards than Addai (210). But in the past two games alone, Addai has caught 17 passes for 103 yards. In five games this year, Addai has four touchdowns (three rushing and one receiving). This week, the Colts face the Rams, who have given up nine rushing touchdowns. The Rams rank 26th against the run and 27th against the pass.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 08:46 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Quarterback Rankings - Week 7

Every week, we provide consensus fantasy football rankings per position (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, DEF) based on that week's matchup.

How do we arrive at our rankings?

We average out rankings from various sources in an effort to reduce the variability between mainstream sites. We include ESPN, Yahoo! and CBS Sports in our rankings.

Here are the top 10 quarterbacks in week 7:

1. Peyton Manning, Colts (at St. Louis)
2. Drew Brees, Saints (at Miami)
3. Tom Brady, Patriots (at Tampa Bay)
4. Aaron Rodgers, Packers (at Cleveland)
5. Philip Rivers, Chargers (at Kansas City)
6. Matt Schaub, Texans (vs San Francisco)
7. Jay Cutler, Bears (at Cincinnati)
8. Ben Roethlisberger, Steelers (vs Minnesota)
9. Eli Manning, Giants (vs Arizona)
10. Kurt Warner, Cardinals (at NY Giants)

See full list of top 25 quarterbacks for week 7.

More rankings: top 40 RBs | top 50 WRs | top 20 TEs | top 20 kickers | top 20 team defenses

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 11:15 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Running Back Rankings - Week 7

Every week, we provide consensus fantasy football rankings per position (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, DEF) based on that week's matchup.

How do we arrive at our rankings?

We average out rankings from various sources in an effort to reduce the variability between mainstream sites. We include ESPN, Yahoo! and CBS Sports in our rankings.

Here are the top 10 running backs in week 7:

1. DeAngelo Williams, Panthers (vs Buffalo)
2. Thomas Jones, Jets (at Oakland)
3. Frank Gore, 49ers (at Houston)
4. Adrian Peterson, Vikings (at Pittsburgh)
5. Michael Turner, Falcons (at Dallas)
6. Ronnie Brown, Dolphins (vs New Orleans)
7. Cedric Benson, Bengals (vs Chicago)
8. Ryan Grant, Packers (at Cleveland)
9. LaDainian Tomlinson, Chargers (at Kansas City)
10. Joseph Addai, Colts (at St. Louis)

See full list of top 40 running backs for week 7.

More rankings: top 25 QBs | top 50 WRs | top 20 TEs | top 20 kickers | top 20 team defenses

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 09:59 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Wide Receiver Rankings - Week 7

Every week, we provide consensus fantasy football rankings per position (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, DEF) based on that week's matchup.

How do we arrive at our rankings?

We average out rankings from various sources in an effort to reduce the variability between mainstream sites. We include ESPN, Yahoo! and CBS Sports in our rankings.

Here are the top 10 fantasy wide receivers in week 7:

1. Randy Moss, Patriots (at Tampa Bay)
2. Andre Johnson, Texans (vs San Francisco)
3. Reggie Wayne, Colts (at St. Louis)
4. Vincent Jackson, Chargers (at Kansas City)
5. Larry Fitzgerald, Cardinals (at NY Giants)
6. Roddy White, Falcons (at Dallas)
7. Marques Colston, Saints (at Miami)
8. Wes Welker, Patriots (at Tampa Bay)
9. Hines Ward, Steelers (vs Minnesota)
10. Steve Smith, Giants (vs Arizona)

See full list of top 50 wide receivers for week 7.

More rankings: top 25 QBs | top 40 RBs | top 20 TEs | top 20 kickers | top 20 team defenses

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 09:49 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Tight End Rankings - Week 7

Every week, we provide fantasy football rankings per position (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, DEF) based on that week's matchup.

How do we arrive at our rankings?

We average out rankings from various sources in an effort to reduce the variability between mainstream sites. We include ESPN, Yahoo! and CBS Sports in our rankings.

Here are the top 10 tight ends in week 7:

1. Dallas Clark, Colts (at St. Louis)
2. Antonio Gates, Chargers (at Kansas City)
3. Jason Witten, Cowboys (vs Atlanta)
4. Tony Gonzalez, Falcons (at Dallas)
5. Heath Miller, Steelers (vs Minnesota)
6. Chris Cooley, Redskins (vs Philadelphia)
7. Owen Daniels, Texans (vs San Francisco)
8. Brent Celek, Eagles (at Washington)
9. Greg Olsen, Bears (at Cincinnati)
10. Jeremy Shockey, Saints (at Miami)

See full list of top 20 tight ends for week 7.

More rankings: top 25 QBs | top 40 RBs | top 50 WRs | top 20 kickers | top 20 team defenses

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 09:35 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Defense Rankings - Week 7

Every week, we provide consensus fantasy football rankings per position (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, DEF) based on that week's matchup.

How do we arrive at our rankings?

We average out rankings from various sources in an effort to reduce the variability between mainstream sites. We include ESPN, Yahoo! and CBS Sports in our rankings.

Here are the top 10 team defenses in week 7:

1. Green Bay Packers (at Cleveland)
2. Indianapolis Colts (at St. Louis)
3. New England Patriots (at Tampa Bay)
4. New York Jets (at Oakland)
5. Philadelphia Eagles (at Washington)
6. New York Giants (vs Arizona)
7. New Orleans Saints (at Miami)
8. Carolina Panthers (vs Buffalo)
9. Pittsburgh Steelers (vs Minnesota)
10. Minnesota Vikings (at Pittsburgh)

See full list of top 20 defenses for week 7.

More rankings: top 25 QBs | top 40 RBs | top 50 WRs | top 20 TEs | top 20 kickers

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 09:22 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Kicker Rankings - Week 7

Every week, we provide consensus fantasy football rankings per position (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, DEF) based on that week's matchup.

How do we arrive at our rankings?

We average out rankings from various sources in an effort to reduce the variability between mainstream sites. We include ESPN, Yahoo! and CBS Sports in our rankings.

Here are the top 10 kickers in week 7:

1. Stephen Gostkowski, Patriots (at Tampa Bay)
2. Mason Crosby, Packers (at Cleveland)
3. Nate Kaeding, Chargers (at Kansas City)
4. David Akers, Eagles (at Washington)
5. Lawrence Tynes, Giants (vs Arizona)
6. Matt Stover, Colts (at St. Louis)
7. John Carney, Saints (at Miami)
8. Jason Elam, Falcons (at Dallas)
9. Ryan Longwell, Vikings (at Pittsburgh)
10. Kris Brown, Texans (vs San Francisco)

See full list of top 20 kickers for week 7.

More rankings: top 25 QBs | top 40 RBs | top 50 WRs | top 20 TEs | top 20 team defenses

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 09:13 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Cerrato endorses Zorn -- No, really...

Redskins general manager Vinny Cerrato stated on ESPN's 980 AM (via The Washington Post) that coach Jim Zorn is, get this, "the head coach of the Washington Redskins and will be for the rest of the year and hopefully for the future."

Apparently, it's a love fest in Washington as Zorn, who was unaware of Cerrato's comments, said, "...I'm the head football coach. I want to be here for the next 10 years. ..."

And receiver Santana Moss said, "The world outside is always so curious and they have so many answers and so many resolutions over what to do. So I'm glad we solved that and make everyone hush up. It's going to be one of those situations where now he can coach freely and not worry about that other crap[stuff]."

But it was Cerrato who stripped Zorn of his offensive play-calling duties on Monday. And the person who will handle those duties is Sherm Lewis, who was calling bingo balls for the past five years.

While the idea was presented as a joint decision by Cerrato and Zorn, it was really all Cerrato's idea as pointed out by Ryan O'Halloran of The Washington Times.

So, how much does a GM really endorse a coach when he transitions some of his responsibilities to a man who has been out of football for five years?

Enough for the franchise to make an offer to a possible replacement.

Mike Shanahan reportedly turned down an offer to coach the Redskins and he said, "there was little he could do in the middle of the season for them and that changing coaches during the season in the NFL rarely works,'' per a source of Fanhouse's Thomas George.

I suppose there is a chance that the team, with their collective backs against the wall, come out swinging and play an inspired and emotionally-charged game Monday night against the Eagles on the national stage.

More likely than not, however, the Redskins will look worse than ever against a division rival, who also has something to prove after their embarrassing loss to the Raiders.

We'll see if Cerrato is singing the same tune if when the Eagles hand the Redskins a beatdown on national TV.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 03:27 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

The Weekly Blitz - Week 7

Every week, I pick three games against the spread (ATS) and last week was a good week (3-0 ATS). That improves my 2009 record to 10-8 although it pales in comparison to last year's record (31-18-2 ATS).

I like the matchups this week more than I have in previous weeks and here are my week 7 picks:

Steelers -5 (over Vikings): The Steelers haven't allowed a 100-yard rusher in 24 straight games and their run defense ranks second in the NFL. The Vikings are tied for the NFL lead in sacks (21). Although both teams are known for their great defenses, this game features the leader in passing yards (Ben Roethlisberger), rushing yards (Adrian Peterson) and receiving yards (Hines Ward) through six weeks. The Vikings are tied for second in turnover differential (+8) and Brett Favre has only two interceptions. For a QB that has averaged 1.12 INT's/game throughout his illustrious yet lengthy career, however, a regression to the mean is long overdue. Take the Steelers and give the points.

Falcons +4 (over Cowboys): The rule of thumb is that home-field advantage equates to three points. Therefore, this spread implies that the Cowboys are better (albeit by one point, but better nonetheless) than the Falcons on a neutral field. Really? As a Cowboys' fan, I'd like to believe that. But I can't. The Cowboys are coming off a bye and have had an extra week to prepare, which makes it an uphill battle for the Falcons. That being said, the Cowboys, who have a -4 turnover differential, tend to shoot themselves in the foot. Atlanta's turnover differential is +5. Although defense isn't Atlanta's strength, they rank fourth in the NFL in scoring defense (15.4 ppg) and haven't given up more than 26 points in any game this season. If the Falcons don't win this game outright, they should at least keep this game close.

Giants -7 (over Cardinals): Not only are the Cardinals one-dimensional on offense (5th in passing, 31st in rushing), they are one-dimensional on defense as well. They lead the NFL in rushing defense (59.6 ypg) and have held Maurice Jones-Drew, Steve Slaton and Frank Gore to 66, 39 and 30 rushing yards, respectively. However, their pass defense has allowed 265.2 passing yards per game, which is worse than every team except Tennessee. On the other hand, the Giants are more balanced with the following rankings: rush offense (5), pass offense (12), run defense (18) and pass defense (1). After an embarrassing loss to New Orleans, the Giants will come out swinging after last week's "Big Queasy" performance. In the past three years, the Giants are 5-0 against the spread (ATS) in games versus NFC West opponents.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 09:09 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Cedric Benson has extra motivation for Sunday

Bengals running back Cedric Benson, who was released last year by Chicago, has extra motivation for Sunday's game against the Bears. Benson believes he was blackballed by the Bears.

"I heard all the rumors that were said coming out of Chicago," Benson said Wednesday in a conference call with Chicago media (per ESPN). "Even the Bengals told me, they would call and inquire about me and get nothing but negative things -- just that I didn't work hard, that I was a prima donna, or didn't work hard on the field, or I wasn't focused. Anything negative they could say, it was said. I'm sure that contributed largely to me not getting picked up right away."

Not surprisingly, the Bears' coaching staff deny the rumors.

"He was not blackballed by anyone in our organization," Smith said. "If anything, when a player decides to leave here, or is cut from here, we do everything we possibly can to help them go somewhere else. That was the case with Cedric."

We'll most likely never know who's telling the truth. But what we do know is Benson did not produce in Chicago and he had his share of run-ins with the law.

In his three seasons in Chicago, Benson, who was drafted by Chicago with the fourth overall pick in 2005, had 1593 rushing yards for an average of 3.8 yards per carry in 35 games.

After signing with Cincinnati last year, he finished the season strong and had 355 rushing yards in the final three games of the season.

Although I named Benson as one of five running backs to target in your fantasy draft, he's exceeding the level of production even I expected.

Benson, who recently ended the Ravens' streak of not allowing a 100-yard rusher at 39 weeks, is finally living up to his potential and is currently ranked third in the NFL in rushing (531 yards).

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 09:50 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Bears give Cutler a two-year extension

The Chicago Bears have signed quarterback Jay Cutler to a two-year extension worth $30 million, of which $20 million is guaranteed, per Brad Biggs of the Chicago Sun-Times.

The extension keeps Cutler, who was the Broncos first-round pick in 2006, under contract with the Bears through 2013.

In the off-season, Denver traded Cutler (and a fifth-round pick) to Chicago for Kyle Orton, two first-round picks and a third-round pick. The Bears used the fifth-round pick to draft receiver Johnny Knox, who leads Bears' receivers in touchdown receptions (three) through five games.

Although Cutler is generally playing well, he had multi-interception games in the Bears' two losses this season. Through five games, he has completed 64 percent of his passes and has thrown for 1201 yards, 10 touchdowns and seven interceptions.

Meanwhile, Kyle Orton and the Broncos are off to a surprising 6-0 start and are running away with the AFC West.

''The league is funny. It's all about timing,'' Cutler said Tuesday on the ''Waddle and Silvy Show'' on WMVP-AM (1000), per the Sun-Times. ''You could be one of the best players in the league, but if you're not in the right system, you don't have the right people around you, there's a lot of different aspects that go into making or breaking a player. It's working for Kyle. It's working for Josh. And it's working for the Broncos. They've got a good thing going.''

The Bears play the Bengals this weekend and Chad Ochocinco and Cutler have engaged in some "trash-tweeting."

Although Ochocinco congratulated him on his new contract via Twitter, he also wrote, "@JayCutler6 well after I embarass the secondary I want your jersey after game. ..."

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 06:49 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Kris Jenkins has torn ACL

The New York Jets have lost nose tackle Kris Jenkins for the season.

Jenkins tore his ACL in Sunday's game against the Bills and he's been placed on injured reserve (IR), per Rich Cimini of the NY Daily News.

“It’s going to be hard to replace Kris,” Rex Ryan said Monday, according to Rod Boone of Newsday. “There’s not many Kris Jenkins playing in this league. So obviously his impact’s going to be felt. I have a lot of confidence in the guys behind him in Sione [Pouha], and Mike DeVito and we’ll add Howard Green back. … But to think that they are going to come and play like Kris is not realistic.”

Although the Jets rank 21st against the run in 2009, Jenkins makes it tough for opposing offenses to run the ball.

Last year, the Jets ranked seventh in rushing allowing only 94.9 rushing yards per game. In addition, they allowed only 10 rushing touchdowns in 2008. Only five teams allowed less.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 10:35 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Antwan Odom is out for the season

The Cincinnati Bengals suffered a devastating loss today.

Not only did they lose to the Houston Texans to fall into a tie for first place in the AFC North with the Pittsburgh Steelers, but they lost defensive end Antwan Odom for the season. Odom suffered a torn Achilles in the first quarter when the Texans scored their first touchdown.

“He’s our best player on the line. I sure hope he isn’t out for the year,” defensive tackle Tank Johnson said before the inury was confirmed, per Shannon Russell of the Cincinnati Enquirer.

Odom was tied with Denver's Elvis Dumervil for the NFL lead in sacks with eight. The rest of the team has eight sacks through today's game.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 11:36 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Brady throws five TDs in quarter, sets NFL record

Apparently, the Titans can give up points faster than I can type.

I just finished typing up a post about Brady's four passing touchdowns in one quarter. Well, I should have waited.

Brady has thrown a fifth touchdown in the quarter and a second to Wes Welker. Randy Moss has also caught two touchdowns and Kevin Faulk caught one touchdown as well.

For the half, Brady has completed 24 of 28 passes for 345 yards, five touchdowns and no interceptions. By comparison, Titans QB Kerry Collins has completed one of 10 passes for 15 yards and an interception.

It must be a huge shock for Collins each week to practice against the Titans secondary during the week and then face one that, um, doesn't suck in real games.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 05:53 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Brady has thrown 4 TDs in second quarter and driving

Boy, oh boy, are the Tennessee Titans efficient.

They've managed to give more points in one half than they normally give up in a full game and they normally give up a lot in a full game. Technically, "a lot" is defined as 27.8 points per game, which ranks 29th in the NFL through week 5.

There is still some time left in the second half, but the Titans are trailing 38-0. Patriots QB Tom Brady is 19 of 20 for 310 yards in the game. And he has thrown all four of his touchdowns in the second quarter.

As remarkable as the turnaround of the Miami Dolphins in 2008 (winning an extra ten games from the previous season's record), the Titans plummet is equally remarkable.

Last year, the Titans finished 13-3 and were the top playoff seed in the AFC and now there on the verge of an 0-6 start. And one thing is for sure. The Titans are getting better and better at losing.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 05:49 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Driver sets Packers' receptions record

Packers receiver Donald Driver needed only one reception to take sole possession of the Packers' all-time receptions record as he entered the game tied with Sterling Sharpe at 595 receptions.

Driver broke the record on a six-yard reception, but he finished the day with seven receptions and 107 receiving yards in today's 26-0 shutout over the Detroit Lions.

In his career, Driver has 602 receptions, 8384 receiving yards and 45 receiving touchdowns.

On the all-time list, Driver ranks 49th in receptions. The five receivers in front of Driver are Joe Horn (603), Reggie Wayne (608), Keith Byars (610), Johnnie Morton (624) and Rob Moore (628).

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 04:41 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Zorn benches Campbell, one week 'til unemployment line?

All it took for the Chiefs to get their first win of the season was a shot to play the Redskins.

After trailing 3-0 at halftime, the Redskins benched starting QB Jason Campbell in favor of Todd Collins.

Campbell was 9 of 16 for 89 yards, no touchdowns and one interception. Todd Collins wasn't much better as he completed only six of 14 passes for 75 yards.

The Redskins have lost to Lions and Chiefs, who are both 1-5, and nearly lost to the Rams and Buccaneers, who are both 0-6.

Although many expected the Redskins to finish last in the NFC East, most expected them to be more competitive than they've been.

Coach Jim Zorn's tenure in Washington could be nearing the end as the Redskins have only one more game before their bye and that game is against a much better division rival (Philadelphia).

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 04:12 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Bucs send Adams to Chicago for second-rounder

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have sent Gaines Adams to Chicago yesterday in exchange for the Bears' second-round pick in 2010, per Stephen Holder of the St. Petersburg Times.

Adams, who was the fourth overall pick in 2007, hasn't lived up to the status of being a top pick. In 37 career games, Adams has only 13.5 sacks.

In five games this season, Adams has only one sack and ten tackles.

The move likely means that Stylez White, who leads the team in QB pressures (11), will start at right defensive end with Adams' departure.

And Bucs left defensive end Jimmy Wilkinson, who has five sacks this year, has ten sacks in his past 12 games.

Meanwhile, the Bears have one of the league's better defensive line coaches in Rod Marinelli.

Only three NFL teams -- Vikings, Broncos and Steelers -- have more sacks than the Bears, who have 14 sacks through four games. However, those three teams have all played five games.

‘‘Really, I can’t say right now that a fresh start was what I needed,’’ Adams said, per Brad Biggs of the Chicago Sun-Times. ‘‘Really, I am just privileged to be a Bear. It is going to be a new start for me, and I am excited. Hopefully, I go out and play Sunday.’’

Adams joins Adewale Ogunleye and Mark Anderson, who have started at defensive end. Ogunleye leads the team in sacks with 4.5.

Considering Adams' lack of production in Tampa, getting a second-rounder back is a win for Tampa. If Marinelli can get Adams to look more like a fourth-overall pick should look, this could turn out to be a win-win.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 09:09 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Quarterback Rankings - Week 6

Every week, we provide fantasy football rankings per position (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, DEF) based on that week's matchup.

How do we arrive at our rankings?

We average out rankings from various sources in an effort to reduce the variability between mainstream sites. We include ESPN, Yahoo! and CBS Sports in our rankings.

Here are the top 10 quarterbacks in week 6:

1. Aaron Rodgers, Packers (vs Detroit)
2. Tom Brady, Patriots (vs Tennessee)
3. Drew Brees, Saints (vs NY Giants)
4. Kurt Warner, Cardinals (at Seattle)
5. Donovan McNabb, Eagles (at Oakland)
6. Matt Hasselbeck, Seahawks (vs Arizona)
7. Ben Roethlisberger, Steelers (vs Cleveland)
8. Matt Schaub, Texans (at Cincinnati)
9. Philip Rivers, Chargers (vs Denver)
10. Jay Cutler, Bears (at Atlanta)

See full list of top 25 quarterbacks for week 6.

More rankings: top 40 RBs | top 50 WRs | top 20 TEs | top 20 kickers | top 20 team defenses

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 05:56 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Running Back Rankings - Week 6

Every week, we provide fantasy football rankings per position (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, DEF) based on that week's matchup.

How do we arrive at our rankings?

We average out rankings from various sources in an effort to reduce the variability between mainstream sites. We include ESPN, Yahoo! and CBS Sports in our rankings.

Here are the top 10 running backs in week 6:

1. Maurice Jones-Drew, Jaguars (vs St. Louis)
2. Cedric Benson, Bengals (vs Houston)
3. Adrian Peterson, Vikings (vs Baltimore)
4. Michael Turner, Falcons (vs Chicago)
5. Ryan Grant, Packers (vs Detroit)
6. DeAngelo Williams, Panthers (at Tampa Bay)
7. Matt Forte, Bears (at Atlanta)
8. Steven Jackson, Rams (at Jacksonville)
9. Knowshon Moreno, Broncos (at San Diego)
10. Brian Westbrook, Eagles (at Oakland)

See full list of top 40 running backs for week 6.

More rankings: top 25 QBs | top 50 WRs | top 20 TEs | top 20 kickers | top 20 team defenses

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 05:48 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Wide Receiver Rankings - Week 6

Every week, we provide fantasy football rankings per position (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, DEF) based on that week's matchup.

How do we arrive at our rankings?

We average out rankings from various sources in an effort to reduce the variability between mainstream sites. We include ESPN, Yahoo! and CBS Sports in our rankings.

Here are the top 10 fantasy wide receivers in week 6:

1. Randy Moss, Patriots (vs Tennessee)
2. Larry Fitzgerald, Cardinals (at Seattle)
3. Greg Jennings, Packers (vs Detroit)
4. Steve Smith, Panthers (at Tampa Bay)
5. Brandon Marshall, Broncos (at San Diego)
6. Chad Ochocinco, Bengals (vs Houston)
7. Roddy White, Falcons (vs Chicago)
8. Andre Johnson, Texans (at Cincinnati)
9. Wes Welker, Patriots (vs Tennessee)
10. T.J. Houshmandzadeh, Seahawks (vs Arizona)

See full list of top 50 wide receivers for week 6.

More rankings: top 25 QBs | top 40 RBs | top 20 TEs | top 20 kickers | top 20 team defenses

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 05:42 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Tight End Rankings - Week 6

Every week, we provide fantasy football rankings per position (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, DEF) based on that week's matchup.

How do we arrive at our rankings?

We average out rankings from various sources in an effort to reduce the variability between mainstream sites. We include ESPN, Yahoo! and CBS Sports in our rankings.

Here are the top 10 tight ends in week 6:

1. Tony Gonzalez, Falcons (vs Chicago)
2. Antonio Gates, Chargers (vs Denver)
3. Brent Celek, Eagles (at Oakland)
4. Kellen Winslow, Buccaneers (vs Carolina)
5. Chris Cooley, Redskins (vs Kansas City)
6. Owen Daniels, Texans (at Cincinnati)
7. Jermichael Finley, Packers (vs Detroit)
8. Jeremy Shockey, Saints (vs Giants)
9. Greg Olsen, Bears (at Atlanta)
10. John Carlson, Seahawks (vs Arizona)

See full list of top 20 tight ends for week 6.

More rankings: top 25 QBs | top 40 RBs | top 50 WRs | top 20 kickers | top 20 team defenses

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 10:32 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Team Defense Rankings - Week 6

Every week, we provide fantasy football rankings per position (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, DEF) based on that week's matchup.

How do we arrive at our rankings?

We average out rankings from various sources in an effort to reduce the variability between mainstream sites. We include ESPN, Yahoo! and CBS Sports in our rankings.

Here are the top 10 team defenses in week 6:

1. Philadelphia Eagles (at Oakland)
2. Pittsburgh Steelers (vs Cleveland)
3. New York Jets (vs Buffalo)
4. Green Bay Packers (vs Detroit)
5. New England Patriots (vs Tennessee)
6. Minnesota Vikings (vs Baltimore)
7. Washington Redskins (vs Kansas City)
8. Baltimore Ravens (at Minnesota)
9. New York Giants (at New Orleans)
10. Denver Broncos (at San Diego)

See full list of top 20 defenses for week 6.

More rankings: top 25 QBs | top 40 RBs | top 50 WRs | top 20 TEs | top 20 kickers

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 10:17 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Kicker Rankings - Week 6

Every week, we provide fantasy football rankings per position (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, DEF) based on that week's matchup.

How do we arrive at our rankings?

We average out rankings from various sources in an effort to reduce the variability between mainstream sites. We include ESPN, Yahoo! and CBS Sports in our rankings.

Here are the top 10 kickers in week 6:

1. David Akers, Eagles (at Oakland)
2. Mason Crosby, Packers (vs Detroit)
3. Stephen Gostkowski, Patriots (vs Tennessee)
4. Josh Scobee, Jaguars (vs St. Louis)
5. Ryan Longwell, Vikings (vs Baltimore)
6. Lawrence Tynes, Giants (at New Orleans)
7. Neil Rackers, Cardinals (at Seattle)
8. Jason Elam, Falcons (vs Chicago)
9. Nate Kaeding, Chargers (vs Denver)
10. Matt Prater, Broncos (at San Diego)

See full list of top 20 kickers for week 6.

More rankings: top 25 QBs | top 40 RBs | top 50 WRs | top 20 TEs | top 20 team defenses

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 10:07 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

The Weekly Blitz - Week 6

Every week, I pick three games against the spread (ATS) and here are my week six picks:

Falcons -3 (over Bears): Last week, the Falcons exploded for 45 points against the 49ers, who gave up only 53 points in their previous four games. In the process, the Falcons posted 477 yards of total offense including "Rowdy" Roddy White's record-breaking performance (210 receiving yards). And last year, Michael "The Burner" Turner played considerably better at home where he scored 14 of his 17 touchdowns. In the ten home games Turner has played in the Dome, he has rushed for 100+ yards six times. And in those games, the Falcons are 9-1 straight up. Look for the Falcons to follow up last week's strong road performance with a strong showing at home.

Ravens +3 (over Vikings): These two teams are similar -- strong defenses, strong running games and improved passing offenses (compared to last year). And although both teams started 3-0, they enter week six with different perspectives. While the Vikings look to remain undefeated, their opponents have a combined record of 7-17. Meanwhile, the Ravens are desperate for a win after tough back-to-back losses against the Patriots and Bengals, respectively. This game will be some good old-fashioned smashmouth football and in a close game, I'll take the points.

Panthers -3 (over Bucs): The Panthers' offense has struggled in 2009, but they got their first win last week against the Redskins. This week, they face a Bucs' team that ranks 30th in scoring defense (28 ppg) and 28th in total defense (379.8 ypg). And the Bucs' defense is a "balanced bad," meaning they are the only team with the dubious distinction of allowing more than 150 rushing yards and 225 passing yards per game. Since 1992, Carolina is 11-6 ATS vs Atlanta.

To view picks from our three other "handicappers," click here.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 10:25 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Steelers lose Aaron Smith for year

According to Gerry Dulac and Ed Bouchette of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazzette, Steelers defensive end Aaron Smith has been placed on injured reserve (IR), which will end his season.

Last week, Smith, one of the league's best run-stopping ends, tore his rotator cuff against the Lions.

To take Smith's roster spot, the Steelers signed DE Ra'Shon "Sunny" Harris, their sixth-round draft pick, from the Panthers' practice squad.

The Steelers led the NFL in total defense (237.2 yards per game) and they were second in run defense (80.3 yards per game) in 2008. This year, they are fourth in overall defense (290.8 ypg) and second in run defense (71.2 ypg).

As the Post-Gazzette points out, their defense struggled in the four games Smith missed in 2007 by allowing 157.2 rushing ypg.

"I think he's one of the unsung heroes in this league," Steelers free safety Ryan Clark said (via the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review), "a guy that's underappreciated for what he's done for many years."

In Smith's absence, the Steelers will use a committee of first-rounder Ziggy Hood, Travis Kirschke and Nick Eason.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 09:11 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Michael Floyd ahead of schedule on return

Notre Dame receiver Michael Floyd, who broke his collarbone last month, may return sooner than expected, per ESPN.

He's participating in practice on a limited basis and could return as early as November 7th against Navy, according to a team spokesman. Initially, it was thought that he might return in time for a bowl game.

"Based off the results of that CAT scan they'll determine if and when we can get him back," [coach Charlie] Weis said. "Fingers crossed the earliest we can get him back is Pittsburgh."

The Irish play the Navy (11/7), Pittsburgh (11/14), UConn (11/21) and Stanford (11/28).

In three games, Floyd has 13 receptions for 358 yards and five touchdowns.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 10:53 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Carlos Rogers calls out owner

Redskins cornerback Carlos Rogers is pointing fingers and, surprisingly, it's at the guy who signs his paychecks.

"It not only starts with the players, coaches," Rogers said, per the Associated Press (via Pro Football Talk). "It starts with the ownership."

While I agree with Rogers, it is gutsy to publicly call out the head honcho -- even if he makes poor decisions.

Rogers, the first of the Redskins' two first-round picks in 2005, may have punched his ticket out of DC. Then again, that may be his plan.

The Redskins are 2-3 and in last place in the NFC East. They squeaked out their two wins against two of the league's worst teams (the Rams and Bucs, who have combined for an 0-10 record) by a combined margin of five points. And head coach Jim Zorn sits on the hottest seat in the league.

So, who will have a longer tenure with the Redskins from this point forward: Rogers or Zorn?

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 10:25 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

309 more passing yards for Peyton

Colts quarterback Peyton Manning has extended his streak of 300-yard passing games to five.

Manning faced the league's worst passing defense that was missing one of its best defenders -- Pro Bowl cornerback Cortland Finnegan.

In the process of passing for 309 yards, the Colts essentially eliminated the Titans from the playoffs tonight. No team has started the season 0-5, which is the Titans' record, and made the post-season.

The Colts have a bye week next week and then face the Rams in week 7. Arguably, the Rams are the league's worst team and have allowed 146 points, which is second-most in the NFL behind the Detroit Lions.

On the season, Manning has 1645 passing yards, 12 touchdowns and four interceptions through five games.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 11:49 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Roddy White has record-setting day, too

Cowboys receiver Miles Austin wasn't the only receiver to set a franchise receiving record today.

Falcons receiver Roddy White, who had only 119 receiving yards in his previous three games, set a franchise record with 210 receiving yards in today's rout over the 49ers.

“Me and coach [Mike] Smith had a talk. He was like, ‘You’ve got to get back to being yourself again. You’ve got to go back out there and be the old Roddy. No pressure.’ After we had that talk, I kind of came to practice with a new mentality. Kind of got back to just doing what I do.”

The previous Falcons' record was 198 yards set by Terance Mathis in 1998. White's previous career high was 164 yards.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 09:43 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Miles Austin has record day

In our Fantasy Football Weekly podcast earlier this morning, I mentioned that Cowboys receiver Miles Austin would be a good waiver-wire pickup as Roy Williams did not travel to Kansas City. But, in no way, did I foresee the type of day Austin was about to have.

In his first career start, Austin caught the game-winning touchdown in overtime against the Chiefs for his tenth reception of the day.

And in the process he finished with 250 receiving yards, which eclipses the previous Cowboys franchise record of 246 yards set in 1966 by Hall of Famer "Bullet" Bob Hayes.

In his previous four games this season, Austin had only five receptions for 81 yards and one touchdown.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 07:46 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Duds - Week 5 Running Backs

Heading into week five, here are three running backs that I expect to have a down week:

Cedric Benson, Bengals: Benson is tied for fourth in the league in rushing (367 yards) through four games. However, this week he faces a stingy Ravens defense that leads the NFL in rushing defense (59.5 yards per game) and hasn't allowed a 100-yard rusher in 39 consecutive games. On average, opposing rushers are averaging only 2.6 yards per carry against the Ravens. In 12 career rushing attempts against the Ravens, Benson has 23 yards and no touchdowns.

Steven Jackson, Rams: Jackson, who is tied with Benson in rushing, has accumulated a lot of yards. However, he has yet to reach the endzone through a quarter of the season. Coincidentally, Jackson's week five opponent (Vikings) hasn't allowed a rushing touchdown this season. If you have Jackson on your roster, he was likely selected as your team's number one back meaning you may not have enough viable options to bench him. But I would expect Jackson to post a pedestrian 50-70 yards and no scores against the stout Vikings run defense.

Clinton Portis, Redskins: Portis has yet to rush for 100 yards in a game this year and the last three games were against the Rams, Lions and Buccaneers, who are a combined 1-11. Although the Panthers are last in rushing defense (182.7 ypg), the Panthers have faced three teams with elite backs and/or rushing offenses(Eagles, Falcons and Cowboys). During the week, there was reports of a disagreement between Portis and fullback Mike Sellers (about Sellers' missed blocking assignments). Portis is averaging under four yards per carry and hasn't scored a touchdown yet this season.

See our Fantasy Studs (RBs) for week 5.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 08:18 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Studs - Week 5 Running Backs

Heading into week five, here are some running backs that I expect to have a big week:

Rashard Mendenhall, Steelers: What a difference a week made! Mendenhall, who was relegated to special teams duties in week 3, was named the AFC Offensive Player of the Week in week 4. With Willie Parker out against the Chargers last week, Mendenhall finished with 165 rushing yards and two scores on 29 carries. While it may interesting to see how coach Mike Tomlin splits carries between Mendenhall and Parker going forward, we won't find out this week as Parker has been ruled out for the game against Detroit. The Steelers should run all over the Lions this week and Mendenhall owners should expect to see the second-year back get a heavy dose of touches. The Lions are allowing 5.2 rushing yards per attempt and 121.3 yards per game (20th in NFL).

Jerome Harrison, Browns: With James Davis and Jamal Lewis out last week, Harrison had 29 carries against the Bengals and finished with 121 yards. Davis is out for the season and Lewis is questionable for week five against the Bills. The Bills have one of the league's worst rushing defenses allowing 150.5 yards per game. Only five teams have allowed more rushing yards per game. Also, the Bills have allowed seven rushing touchdowns, which ranks them 30th in the league.

Ahmad Bradshaw, Giants: Through four weeks, Bradshaw, who is back-up to Brandon Jacobs, is 13th in the NFL in rushing yards (265) and he's averaging 5.6 yards per carry. Both Jacobs and Bradshaw are likely to have a huge week against an Oakland Raiders rush defense that is allowing 146.3 yards per game, which is 26th in the league. The Giants are two-touchdown-plus favorites over the Raiders. If they establish an early lead, as expected, both backs should see plenty of carries. In addition, Eli Manning has plantar fasciitis. Although he's expected to play, it wouldn't surprise me if they try to protect him as much as possible and focus on the running game instead. Surprisingly, the Giants have only one rushing touchdown in 139 attempts this season. Only the Rams, Bills and Chiefs have less (i.e. zero). Their fortunes are about to change this week.

Knowshon Moreno, Broncos: Moreno, who was the first RB drafted this year, is off to a solid start and ranked 16th in the NFL in rushing (249 yards). Teammate Correll Buckhalter, who ranks 12th in the league in rushing, is out for the Patriots game. Moreno, who has averaged over 17 carries per game over his past three games, should expect to see an increase in workload with Buckhalter out. Although the Patriots have a solid run defense, Moreno's increased workload makes him a solid play this week.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 07:57 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Who will step up for the Patriots with Taylor out?

The Patriots will be without their leading rushing (Fred Taylor) for a long time -- if not the entire season. That means, there is an opportunity for the other backs on the roster to step up and fill the void.

And Laurence Maroney, the team's second-leading rusher, is looking for himself and the group to do just that.

“We got Kev here, Sammy here, BenJarvus, so it’s going to be a team effort. I know I’m not going to be able to do it by myself,’’ Maroney said. “I know these guys are going to help out, but I feel like I’m going to have to carry most of the load.’’

Although Maroney is second on the team in rushing yards (78) and carries (27), he's only averaging 2.9 yards per carry and hasn't scored yet this season. And he had only six rushing yards on seven carries against the Ravens last week.

I expect to see Sammy Morris, who had 138 rushing yards against Denver last year, emerge from this group as the go-to guy at some point.

In his 23 games played for the Patriots, Morris has 254 carries for 1152 yards and 11 touchdowns. He also has 32 receptions for 295 yards.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 08:56 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Cotchery might miss Monday night game

Jets coach Rex Ryan has already said that newly-acquired receiver Braylon Edwards will play Monday night against the Miami Dolphins.

However, there's the possibility that the Jets will be without their leading receiver Jerricho Cotchery per Ryan (via Ohm Youngmisuk of the NY Daily News).

"His hamstring is still bothering him some," Ryan said. "(I'm) definitely not ruling him out, but he's not 100% right now. I'm expecting him to play, but (missing the game is) a definite possibility."

Cotchery missed Friday's practice and he was limited in Thursday's practice. According to Rich Cimini of the NY Daily News, Cotchery missed today's practice as well.

However, Edwards has looked good in practice so far.

"I could tell he was kind of counting his steps (on Thursday)," [safety Kerry] Rhodes said of Edwards in practice. "Today he was more in tune and he looked good. He made some big catches and showed us why we made the trade for him."

"He's looking good,'' said cornerback Darrelle Revis, per Dave Hutchinson of the Newark Star-Ledger. "It's just crazy that he's coming from another team and is that explosive already.''

If Cotchery is on your fantasy team, I would sit him and play it safe. With the risk of being a scratch in the last game of the week, it makes no sense to put Cotchery into your starting lineup.

Per Hutchinson, Brad Smith would start if Cotchery can't play and that would move up David Clowney in the rotation.

On the season, Cotchery has 23 receptions for 356 yards and one touchdown in four games. He's had at least four receptions and 71 yards in all of his games.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 03:49 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Matt Hasselbeck likely to start vs Jaguars

When the Seahawks host the Jaguars Sunday, Seahawks QB Matt Hasselbeck, who's practiced for three straight days, is expected to get the start, according to Eric Williams of the Tacoma News Tribune.

Hasselbeck fractured his rib in week two against the 49ers and Seneca Wallace has done a decent job as Hasselbeck's replacement. However, the team has lost their last three games despite having the 12th-ranked passing offense (255.3 passing yards per game) in the NFL.

On the season, Wallace has completed 66 percent of his passes and has thrown three touchdowns and two interceptions. He also lost two fumbles against the Colts last week.

Coach Jim Mora says that Hasselbeck has looked "more comfortable" and "more confident" in each of the past three practices.

“He’s healthy enough to play, but if you get hit in the right spot, you kind of go back to square one again,” [receiver TJ] Houshmandzadeh said. “Hopefully that doesn’t happen, but it will help us because he was our starting quarterback for a reason.”

The Seahawks will be without three starting offensive linemen and have only six linemen on their active roster so protecting Hasselbeck will be a challenge as the Seahawks have allowed nine sacks so far this season.

Fortunately for the Seahawks, however, the Jags rank last in the league in sacks (three) and in passing defense (282.3 passing ypg) through four games.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 10:08 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Quarterback Rankings - Week 5

Every week, we provide fantasy football rankings per position (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, DEF) based on that week's matchup.

How do we arrive at our rankings?

We average out rankings from various sources in an effort to reduce the variability between mainstream sites. We include ESPN, Yahoo! and CBS Sports in our rankings.

Here are the top 10 quarterbacks in week 5:

1. Peyton Manning, Colts (at Tennessee)
2. Matt Schaub, Texans (at Arizona)
3. Ben Roethlisberger, Steelers (at Detroit)
4. Donovan McNabb, Eagles (vs Tampa Bay)
5. Kurt Warner, Cardinals (vs Houston)
6. Tom Brady, Patriots (at Denver)
7. Joe Flacco, Ravens (vs Cincinnati)
8. Tony Romo, Cowboys (at Kansas City)
9. Brett Favre, Vikings (at St. Louis)
10. David Garrard, Jaguars (at Seattle)

See full list of top 25 quarterbacks for week 5.

More rankings: top 40 RBs | top 50 WRs | top 20 TEs | top 20 kickers | top 20 team defenses

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 08:44 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Running Back Rankings - Week 5

Every week, we provide fantasy football rankings per position (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, DEF) based on that week's matchup.

How do we arrive at our rankings?

We average out rankings from various sources in an effort to reduce the variability between mainstream sites. We include ESPN, Yahoo! and CBS Sports in our rankings.

Here are the top 10 running backs in week 5:

1. Adrian Peterson, Vikings (at St. Louis)
2. Maurice Jones-Drew, Jaguars (at Seattle)
3. Brandon Jacobs, Giants (at Oakland)
4. Chris Johnson, Titans (vs Indianapolis)
5. DeAngelo Williams, Panthers (vs Washington)
6. Brian Westbrook, Eagles (vs Tampa Bay)
7. Marion Barber, Cowboys (at Kansas City)
8. Rashard Mendenhall, Steelers (at Detroit)
9. Steve Slaton, Texans (vs Oakland)
10. Michael Turner, Falcons (at San Francisco)

See full list of top 40 running backs for week 5.

More rankings: top 25 QBs | top 50 WRs | top 20 TEs | top 20 kickers | top 20 team defenses

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 08:35 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Wide Receiver Rankings - Week 5

Every week, we provide fantasy football rankings per position (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, DEF) based on that week's matchup.

How do we arrive at our rankings?

We average out rankings from various sources in an effort to reduce the variability between mainstream sites. We include ESPN, Yahoo! and CBS Sports in our rankings.

Here are the top 10 fantasy wide receivers in week 5:

1. Reggie Wayne, Colts (at Tennessee)
2. Andre Johnson, Texans (at Arizona)
3. Larry Fitzgerald, Cardinals (vs Houston)
4. Randy Moss, Patriots (at Denver)
5. Anquan Boldin, Cardinals (vs Houston)
6. Calvin Johnson, Lions (vs Pittsburgh)
7. DeSean Jackson, Eagles (vs Tampa Bay)
8. Mike Sims-Walker, Jaguars (at Seattle)
9. Santonio Holmes, Steelers (at Detroit)
10. Steve Smith, Panthers (vs Washington)

See full list of top 50 wide receivers for week 5.

More rankings: top 25 QBs | top 40 RBs | top 20 TEs | top 20 kickers | top 20 team defenses

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 08:26 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Tight End Rankings - Week 5

Every week, we provide fantasy football rankings per position (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, DEF) based on that week's matchup.

How do we arrive at our rankings?

We average out rankings from various sources in an effort to reduce the variability between mainstream sites. We include ESPN, Yahoo! and CBS Sports in our rankings.

Here are the top 10 tight ends in week 5:

1. Dallas Clark, Colts (at Tennessee)
2. Jason Witten, Cowboys (at Kansas City)
3. Tony Gonzalez, Falcons (at San Francisco)
4. Brent Celek, Eagles (vs Tampa Bay)
5. Chris Cooley, Redskins (at Carolina)
6. Owen Daniels, Texans (at Arizona)
7. John Carlson, Seahawks (vs Jacksonville)
8. Dustin Keller, Jets (at Miami)
9. Vernon Davis, 49ers (vs Atlanta)
10. Heath Miller, Steelers (at Detroit)

See full list of top 20 tight ends for week 5.

More rankings: top 25 QBs | top 40 RBs | top 50 WRs | top 20 kickers | top 20 team defenses

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 08:14 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Team Defense Rankings - Week 5

Every week, we provide fantasy football rankings per position (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, DEF) based on that week's matchup.

How do we arrive at our rankings?

We average out rankings from various sources in an effort to reduce the variability between mainstream sites. We include ESPN, Yahoo! and CBS Sports in our rankings.

Here are the top 10 team defenses in week 5:

1. New York Giants (vs Oakland)
2. Minnesota Vikings (at St. Louis)
3. Pittsburgh Steelers (at Detroit)
4. Philadelphia Eagles (vs Tampa Bay)
5. Baltimore Ravens (vs Cincinnati)
6. New York Jets (at Miami)
7. Dallas Cowboys (at Kansas City)
8. Indianapolis Colts (at Tennessee)
9. San Francisco 49ers (vs Atlanta)
10. Miami Dolphins (vs NY Jets)

See full list of top 20 defenses for week 5.

More rankings: top 25 QBs | top 40 RBs | top 50 WRs | top 20 TEs | top 20 kickers

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 08:10 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Kicker Rankings - Week 5

Every week, we provide fantasy football rankings per position (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, DEF) based on that week's matchup.

How do we arrive at our rankings?

We average out rankings from various sources in an effort to reduce the variability between mainstream sites. We include ESPN, Yahoo! and CBS Sports in our rankings.

Here are the top 10 kickers in week 5:

1. Ryan Longwell, Vikings (at St. Louis)
2. Neil Rackers, Cardinals (vs Houston)
3. Stephen Gostkowski, Patriots (at Denver)
4. Lawrence Tynes, Giants (vs Oakland)
5. Kris Brown, Texans (at Arizona)
6. David Akers, Eagles (vs Tampa Bay)
7. Nick Folk, Cowboys (at Kansas City)
8. Joe Nedney, 49ers (vs Atlanta)
9. Steven Hauschka, Ravens (vs Cincinnati)
10. Josh Scobee, Jaguars (at Seattle)

See full list of top 20 kickers for week 5.

More rankings: top 25 QBs | top 40 RBs | top 50 WRs | top 20 TEs | top 20 team defenses

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 07:47 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

The Weekly Blitz - Week 5

We're a quarter of the way through the NFL season and I'm disappointed with my mediocre performance (6-6, .500) in picking games against the spread (ATS) thus far. Although these picks are for entertainment purposes only, it was more entertaining last year as I finished 63.3% ATS.

Here's to a more "entertaining" week in week 5:

Patriots -3 (over Broncos): The Denver Broncos are 4-0 and remain as one of only two unbeaten teams in the AFC. Yet for a second week in a row they are home underdogs. Despite the initial criticisms and challenges Josh McDaniels faced, he and defensive coordinator Mike Nolan have done a great coaching job in the Mile High city. Kyle Orton (QB rating 97.7) has outplayed Jay Cutler (QB rating 89.3) and the Broncos lead the NFL in scoring defense (6.5 points per game). The Broncos are second in the total defense (239.8 yards per game) and in sacks (15). While the Broncos are certainly better than I -- and everyone else -- thought, their level of competition has been relatively low. Although the Patriots have lost Fred Taylor for considerable time (if not the season), it appears that the Patriots offense is beginning to click as they converted three scores in five trips to the redzone against Baltimore.

Vikings -10 (over Rams): These two teams are polar opposites. The Rams are the league's worst team and Minnesota is one of the few unbeatens remaining in the NFC. Through four games, the Rams still have no rushing touchdowns and their passing offense ranks second-to-last (152.8 yards per game). The Vikings are one of two teams to not allow a rushing touchdown yet this season and lead the NFL in sacks (16). The other team to not have allowed a rushing touchdown (San Francisco) shut out the Rams 35-0 last weel. The Rams have lost three of their four games by more than 20 points. My only concern is the Vikings let up and take their opponent for granted in a short week after an emotional divisional game. But they are easily 20 points better than their opponent.

Texans +5.5 (over Cardinals): Although the numbers through four games don't show it, this game should be an old-fashioned shootout. Both the Texans and Cardinals have explosive offenses and this will be a game of high interest for many fantasy owners as both teams are stacked with talented skill players. However, the Cardinals have a one-dimensional offense as they rank second-to-last in rushing offense (60.7 yards per game). And as bad as the Texans have been against the run, they shut down the Raiders (granted, it was the Raiders) running game last week.

See all picks from The Weekly Blitz crew.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 06:02 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fred Taylor could be out for year

Patriots running back Fred Taylor had ankle surgery today to repair "severe ligament damage," per Christopher Gasper of the Boston Globe.

Due to injuries in his past, Taylor was dubbed "Fragile Freddie." Although he had stayed healthy in his recent past, he ended last season on Injured Reserve (IR) and missed the final three games of the season.

And according to Gasper, it's likely that this injury will end Taylor's season although there's a possibility that Taylor will be back in the final month of the year.

On the season, Taylor is leading the Patriots in rushing with 201 rushing yards on 45 carries.

The other running backs on the roster are Laurence Maroney, Kevin Faulk, Sammy Morris and BenJarvus Green-Ellis. Maroney is second on the team in rushing with 78 yards on 27 attempts (2.9 average).

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 08:32 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Jets trade for Braylon Edwards

Roughly 48 hours after (allegedly) punching the 135-pound friend of LeBron, Braylon Edwards earned himself a one-way ticket out of Cleveland.

Edwards, who is in the final year of his contract, was likely to be moved whether or not he swung at a man eighty pounds less than him. However, that incident early Monday morning increased the urgency for the Browns to move Braylon.

In the trade, the Browns will get receiver Chansi Stuckey, linebacker Jason Trusnik and two draft choices (third- and fifth-round picks), per Adam Schefter of ESPN.

The question is what the Jets will get in return. I mean, they get a receiver named Braylon Edwards.

But two years ago, that receiver was one of the most dynamic receivers in the league when he broke out for nearly 1300 yards and 16 touchdowns. Last year, he had 873 yards and only three touchdowns, but he led the league in drops.

Edwards leaves a poorly-run organization wtih a pitiful offense (29th in the NFL) for a team that is 3-1, tied for first in the AFC East and has a certain swagger.

So perhaps the Jets will be fortunate like the Patriots were when Randy Moss left the Raiders, an organization even more poorly-run than the Browns. Moss went from 42-553-3 in 2006 with Oakland to 98-1493-23 in 2007 with New England.

A change of scenery and the desire to cash in on his next contract should motivate Edwards. But he appears to be as concerned with being a star as he does with being a football player.

In New York, the quantity and quality of nightlife can turn into an unwanted distraction from football. (Of course, Edwards should have learned something from the misfortunes of another New York receiver that wore # 17.)

It's no secret that the Knicks have been planning to make a move for LeBron James via free agency in 2010. If the Knicks land James, hopefully Edwards will stay away from events promoted by LeBron's friends.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 08:48 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Crabtree signs six-year deal with Niners

And then there were none.

Per Daniel Brown of the San Jose Mercury News, Michael Crabtree, the tenth overall pick by the San Francisco 49ers, and the Niners have hammered out a six-year deal worth $32 million (of which $17 million is guaranteed). Crabtree was the last draft pick to sign in 2009.

"Make sure you stay in great shape," Singletary had told Crabtree the last time they spoke (per Brown). "There will be no balloons and no parties when you get here."

Instead, there was a bankrupt ex-rapper (MC Hammer) present during the negotiations.

Singletary, who won't tolerate Crabtree's diva attitude, said he's "very excited" about the Crabtree signing and called it a "great day." And he also said, "... it's a matter of getting him injected into our organization, our culture, the way we play the game. It's going to be a process."

At Texas Tech, Crabtree won back-to-back Fred Biletnikoff awards and caught 231 passes for 3,127 yards and 41 touchdowns in his two seasons.

But Crabtree has missed all of training camp and the team's first four games. And the missed the mini-camps and voluntary workouts as he recovered from foot surgery.

"A weight has been lifted off my shoulders," [Crabtree] said. "And I can't wait to get in this locker room with my teammates, get out there with coach Mike Singletary and get out there and play on Sundays."

But he won't be out there this Sunday.

According to Brown, Singletary has ruled out Crabtree for week 5 against the Falcons. The 49ers have a bye in week 6 and play the Texans in week 7, which will likely be Crabtree's debut.

As Rick Gosselin of the Dallas Morning News points out, only nine rookie receivers have had 1,000-yard seasons since 1967. That's a lot of receivers who haven't and most of them had a full season.

The transition from being a collegiate receiver to an NFL receiver is difficult and challenging. It isn't likely that Crabtree will make a major impact this season, but the 49ers are in the bottom five in the league in passing offense (175 yards per game).

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 06:27 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Giants lose Boley for a month

The Giants host the Raiders this Sunday. What do they share in common?

Both teams have a player who went under the knife today to repair a torn meniscus and will miss up to a month. For the Raiders, that player is second-year running back Darren McFadden.

Per Ralph Vacchiano of the NY Daily News, Giants weak-side linebacker Michael Boley had arthroscopic surgery on his right knee this morning and he will miss four weeks.

This was Boley's second surgery in the past four months. He had surgery to repair a torn labrum in his hip in June.

Given a four-week timetable, Boley could return as soon as November 8th against the Chargers. As Vacchiano points out, however, Boley will more likely return after the team's bye on November 15th and play against the Falcons on November 22nd.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 06:57 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Braylon (allegedly) punches LeBron's 135-pound friend

Browns receiver Braylon Edwards is accustomed to dropping passes on Sundays. This Sunday, he (allegedly) tried to drop a show promoter that is good friends with Cavaliers star LeBron James.

After an overtime loss without a catch against the Bengals, Edwards partied at an event promoted by LeBron's friend (Edward Givens) at a club called View Ultralounge & Nightclub in Cleveland.

At the club, Edwards, who was with other Browns' players, confronted Givens, which led to the alleged punch thrown at Givens.

"... Braylon comes up and started saying things, degrading me," Givens said. "He said if it wasn't for LeBron (James) or the Four Horsemen, I wouldn't have what I have, nor would I be able to get girls. Everyone knows Braylon has a problem with LeBron. So I had to speak up for myself. The conversation started to escalate. As some of his teammates started to pull him back, he punched me. I have a black eye and a cut. I'm not a violent guy.

"As long as I've known Braylon, I've allowed him and his friends to come into our events free of charge. Whatever jealousy he has with LeBron, he felt he needed to take it out on me."

As the Plain Dealer points out, Edwards is eight inches taller and 80 pounds heavier than Givens.

"I've never crossed paths with Braylon before but it seems like there is a little jealously going on with Braylon and me and my friends," James said (via the Cleveland Plain Dealer). "I have no idea why. I've never said anything to Braylon at all. For him to do that I think is very childish. My friend is 130 pounds. Seriously, it is like hitting one of my kids or something like that. It doesn't make sense, but the right people will take care of it."

In 2007, Edwards had a breakout season (80-1289-16). He followed that up with a disappointing 2008 (55-873-3) and even more disappointing start to 2009 (10-139-0) through four games.

More times than not, these antics are tolerated when a player produces on the field. When a player doesn't produce, however, it only speeds up the process of shipping them out of town.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 10:04 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

McFadden to miss next few weeks

Raiders running back Darren McFadden will have surgery on his knee tomorrow to repair a torn meniscus, per the Associated Press. McFadden will miss the next 2-4 weeks as he recovers from surgery.

McFadden, the fourth overall pick in 2008, came out of college with big expectations, especially after the strong rookie season had by Adrian Peterson, who was taken seventh overall in 2007.

Instead, McFadden has only two games with 50+ rushing yards in the 17 games he has played.

And in week four against the Texans, who entered the game allowing over 200 rushing yards per game and over six yards per carry, McFadden had a career low of MINUS three yards rushing on six attempts.

In his place, running backs Justin Fargas and Michael Bush are likely to split carries.

If you're a glass-half-full person, the bright side is McFadden will have a more productive game -- 0 rushes for 0 yards -- against the Giants this week than he had against the Texans yesterday.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 07:55 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Crabtree to resume contract talks with Niners

49ers rookie receiver Michael Crabtree, who has held out through four NFL games, is heading to San Francisco to resume contract talks, per Calvin Watkins of ESPN.

Crabree, who won back-to-back Fred Biletnikoff awards at Texas Tech, was the second receiver drafted after Oakland selected Darrius Heyward-Bey. Heyward-Bey and Crabtree were drafted with the seventh and tenth overall picks, respectively.

Although Crabtree topped draft boards at the receiver position for virtually every team, Raiders owner Al Davis covets speed and selected Heyward-Bey, who posted the fastest 40 time at the NFL Combine and was a former track star.

Not wanting to be shortchanged, Crabtree has sought a deal that would make him the highest paid receiver in this year's draft and has reportedly turned down an offer in the area of five years and $20 million.

Crabtree has been widely criticized in the media by former NFL players including Hall of Fame running back Jim Brown for holding out. Brown gave Crabtree some unsolicited advice during an interview on Sirius XM radio saying, "Mr. Crabtree, get your butt in camp."

"We need all the good players we can get," said coach Mike Singletary, per John Crumpacker of the San Francisco Chronicle. "I would never say 'No, we don't need him.' I met him, I talked to him, I had a good feel for him. I haven't been wrong too often."

In order to play in the 2009 season, the diva receiver and the Niners will need to work out a deal by November 17th.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 07:07 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fourth 300-yard game to start season for Peyton

Colts quarterback Peyton Manning has led the Colts to a perfect 4-0 start and they are one of two unbeaten teams in the AFC along with the Denver Broncos.

In those four games, Manning has thrown for 300+ yards every week. He's never eclipsed the 300-mark in four consecutive games -- until now.

During that span, Manning has thrown for a total of 1,336 yards and nine touchdowns including three today against the Seahawks. He now has 342 career touchdown passes, which ties Fran Tarkenton for third all-time.

"I have met Fran," Manning said, per Alex Marvez of Fox Sports. "He and my dad [Archie] are friends. He was a unique player. I also think he was the first sports hero to host Saturday Night Live, which gives him some cool points."

Next week, the Colts face the Titans, who were ranked fourth-to-last in passing defense (274.7 yards per game) heading into today's game against the Jaguars. David Garrard had 323 passing yards against the Titans today.

Will Peyton make it five straight 300-yard games?

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 11:56 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Eli Manning suffers injury to heel, not Achilles

Giants QB Eli Manning suffered an injury to his heel on a non-contact play during the Chiefs' game.

"Any time you feel that kind of a little pull or strain, especially down there, you get nervous, you don't know if it's an Achilles or something,'' Manning said (via Paul Schwartz of the New York Post). "It wasn't that. I kind of knew after a second it wasn't that. I could stand up, I could still walk around and put some pressure on it. I was more relieved after that.''

Manning has started 75 regular-season games and 82 games straight including post-season games.

"We're going to have to see tomorrow,'' Manning said. "I think it's just a bruised heel, I don’t know exactly what it is. I can walk around, I can move around but there is some discomfort. I don't think it's awful, I've been injured worse before. See how it feels throughout the week. A lot will be when you wake up in the morning, the first step how it feels.''

In today's game, Manning completed 20 of 34 passes for 292 yards, three touchdowns and one interception as the Giants improved to a 4-0 start. Next week, the Giants play the Raiders.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 11:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Sensabaugh breaks thumb

Cowboys safety Gerald Sensabaugh, who broke his thumb in today's game, expects to only miss one game, per Todd Archer of the Dallas Morning News.

After Sensabaugh broke his thumb, Pat Watkins replaced him and finished with six tackles.

"I should be OK," said Sensabaugh. "I think I'll miss maybe one game and the bye week will help."

Before their bye, the Cowboys play the Kansas City Chiefs Sunday. Then their next game is against the Atlanta Falcons on October 25th.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 11:22 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Texans spank Raiders, it's the Giants turn next

Someone forgot to tell the Texans defense that they suck against the run.

They entered today's game against the Raiders as the league's worst rushing defense by all accounts. Through three games, they allowed 205 rushing yards per game, 6.2 rushing yards per attempt and gave up eight rushing touchdowns.

Certainly a defense that is as friendly as the Texans' defense had been would mean the Raiders' rushers would be able to capitalize. Right?

Wrong.

The Raiders know fully how much they suck.

Darren McFadden, who only has two career games with 50+ rushing yards, was held to -3 yards (that's not a misprint -- he had MINUS 3 yards) on six carries. Michael Bush, the team's back-up rusher, had 10 yards on three carries. The team's leader was Justin Fargas, who had 24 yards on 10 carries.

As a team, the Raiders had only 45 rushing yards, 20 of which came from receiver Darrius Heyward-Bey.

As usual, the Raiders passing offense wasn't much better. JaMarcus Russell completed only 12 of 33 passes for 128 yards. That being said, he did set his season-high in passer rating (48.5) in a game.

Life won't get any easier for the Raiders' offense next week as they face a team (NY Giants) that is actually good defensively.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 06:31 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Ben Hamilton is out for Broncos

The Denver Broncos will be without LG Ben Hamilton against the Dallas Cowboys this afternoon, per Lindsay Jones of the Denver Post.

Hamilton, who has an injured hammy, will be replaced by Russ Hochstein in the starting lineup.

RT Ryan Harris, who missed one day of practice this week after injuring his shoulder in last week's game, is active today.

The Broncos are fourth in the NFL in rushing with an average of 158.7 yards per game and 4.7 yards per carry.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 03:50 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Joey Porter out vs Bills

Dolphins linebacker Joey Porter is inactive due to a hamstring injury for this afternoon's game against the Buffalo Bills, per David Neal of the Miami Herald.

Charlie Anderson will start in Porter's place.

The Dolphins are one of three division winners from 2008 that have started the season with an 0-3 record. The Titans, who are trailing the Jaguars 30-9 in the fourth quarter, and the Panthers, who have a week 4 bye, are the other two winless division winners through three weeks.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 03:43 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Slow finishes for Collins a change from 2008

Titans QB Kerry Collins, who had a 90.9 QB rating in the 4th quarter in 2008, has struggled down the stretch so far in 2009. As pointed out by Jim Wyatt of The Tennessean, Collins' fourth-quarter passer rating in 2009 is only 25.9, which is second to last in the NFL.

The team, which scored 123 points in the 4th quarter in 2008, has only scored three points so far this year.

"The more intense the situation, the more Kerry lights up,'' tight end Alge Crumpler said. "He gets more lively in the huddle. He's like 'Let's shut these guys up. C'mon.' ''

"It is very important. A lot of games come down to the fourth quarter and making plays in the fourth quarter and we haven't done that — I haven't done that,'' said Collins. "It is something I am not concerned about, but I would definitely like to get better in the fourth quarter.''

Midway through the second quarter of the Jaguars game today, the Titans trail 17-3.

If the Titans don't let this one slip away, they're likely to need the 2008 version of Collins in the fourth quarter to avoid an 0-4 start.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 01:55 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Clinton Portis will play vs Bucs

Washington Redskins running back Clinton Portis, who was a game-time decision against the Buccaneers, will play today. Portis has a calf strain and bone spurs in both ankles.

In two of his three games, Portis faced weak rushing defenses in St. Louis and Detroit.

The Bucs are the second-worst rushing defense in the NFL through three games allowing 187.3 yards per game and 5.2 yards per carry.

Even though he'll play this week, fantasy football owners should be cautious with Portis, who is only averaging 3.9 yards per carry this season.

Portis hasn't had more than 19 carries in any of his three games this year and has only 183 rushing yards and no touchdowns.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 11:47 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Studs - Week 4 Running Backs

Heading into week four, here are some running backs that I expect to have a big week:

Brandon Jacobs/Ahmad Bradshaw, Giants: I expected Ahmad Bradshaw to have a strong year. With the departure of Derrick Ward (via free agency to Tampa), Bradshaw was elevated into Ward's role as Jacobs' primary back-up. However, I didn't expect him to lead the team in rushing as he does through three games.

On 35 carries, Bradshaw has 201 rushing yards for a 5.7 average. Jacobs, on the other hand, is averaging only 3.4 yards per carry (58 attempts for 196 yards). Last year, Jacobs got into the endzone 15 times in 219 carries and 13 games. That was a TD-per-14.6-carries pace last year. This year, he's scored once in his 58 attempts.

Last week against the Bucs, the duo had their best game of the season -- 196 rushing yards between the two of them on 40 carries. Against the Chiefs today, it could be deja vu all over again as the Giants should establish an early lead and be playing from ahead all day today. I expect both backs to get a heavy does of carries and Jacobs to have his breakout game of the season.

Cedric Benson, Bengals: The Browns defense has allowed 184.3 rushing yards per game (30th in NFL) and eight rushing touchdowns (tied for worst in league) through three games. Benson, on the other hand, has picked up where he left off in 2008. In the final three games of 2008, Benson rushed for 355 yards including a whopping 171 against the Browns in week 16.

In the first three games this year, Benson has had 76+ rushing yards in every game including last week against the Steelers, is third in the NFL in rushing (293 yards) and averaging just under 100 yards per game (97.7). It doesn't get any easier than this.

Glen Coffee, 49ers: Coffee will start in place of the injured Frank Gore, who will miss at least the next three weeks. Although Coffee's averaging only 1.8 yards per carry, he faces a less intimidating run defense in week 4 (St. Louis) than he did in week 3 (Minnesota). Coach Mike Singletary and offensive coordinator employ a run-first offense and Coffee should expect a heavy dose of carries in week 4.

Darren McFadden, Raiders: One of the most electrifying players in college football, McFadden has been disappointing in this young NFL career. He's had only two games with over 50 yards rushing in his career. Although he tops the Raiders' depth chart this season, McFadden is averaging only 3.6 yards per carry. Thirty other running backs have outrushed McFadden, who has 148 yards, so far this season.

If McFadden is going to have a big week, this is the week. The Texans are last in the league in rushing defense (205 yards per game and eight touchdowns). They are allowing 6.2 yards per carry.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 09:14 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Browns place James Davis on IR

Browns running back James Davis was placed on injured reserve (IR), which will end his rookie season.

Davis, who was the Browns' sixth-round pick, was a popular sleeper pick in fantasy football drafts after creating a buzz in the pre-season.

Before final cuts were made to get to the 53-man roster, there was some speculation that the Browns would cut Jamal Lewis in part due to expectations for Davis for the upcoming season.

To take Davis' place on the active roster, the Browns signed Chris Jennings off their practice squad.

In his two games, Davis rushed for 15 yards on nine attempts.

The Browns are averaging only 71.3 rushing yards per game (4th-lowest in the NFL) and 218 yards of total offense per game, which is last in the NFL.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 12:53 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Quarterback Rankings - Week 4

Every week, we provide fantasy football rankings per position (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, DEF) based on that week's matchup.

How do we arrive at our rankings?

We average out rankings from various sources in an effort to reduce the variability between mainstream sites. We include ESPN, Yahoo! and CBS Sports in our rankings.

Here are the top 10 quarterbacks in week 4:

1. Peyton Manning, Colts (vs Seattle)
2. Drew Brees, Saints (vs NY Jets)
3. Jay Cutler, Bears (vs Detroit)
4. Tom Brady, Patriots (vs Baltimore)
5. Matt Schaub, Texans (vs Oakland)
6. Philip Rivers, Chargers (at Pittsburgh)
7. Aaron Rodgers, Packers (at Minnesota)
8. Eli Manning, Giants (at Kansas City)
9. Ben Roethlisberger, Steelers (vs San Diego)
10. Carson Palmer, Bengals (at Cleveland)

See full list of top 25 quarterbacks for week 4.

More rankings: top 40 RBs | top 50 WRs | top 20 TEs | top 20 kickers | top 20 team defenses.

FYI: Here's the link to our free fantasy football survivor contest.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 08:58 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Running Back Rankings - Week 4

Every week, we provide fantasy football rankings per position (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, DEF) based on that week's matchup.

How do we arrive at our rankings?

We average out rankings from various sources in an effort to reduce the variability between mainstream sites. We include ESPN, Yahoo! and CBS Sports in our rankings.

Here are the top 10 running backs in week 4:

1. Adrian Peterson, Vikings (vs Green Bay)
2. Chris Johnson, Titans (at Jacksonville)
3. Brandon Jacobs, Giants (at Kansas City)
4. Cedric Benson, Bengals (at Cleveland)
5. Matt Forte, Bears (vs Detroit)
6. Steve Slaton, Texans (vs Oakland)
7. Maurice Jones-Drew, Jaguars (vs Tennessee)
8. Ronnie Brown, Dolphins (vs Buffalo)
9. Willis McGahee, Ravens (at New England)
10. Steven Jackson, Rams (at San Francisco)

See full list of top 40 running backs for week 4.

More rankings: top 25 QBs | top 50 WRs | top 20 TEs | top 20 kickers | top 20 team defenses.

FYI: Here's the link to our free fantasy football survivor contest.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 08:42 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Wide Receiver Rankings - Week 4

Every week, we provide fantasy football rankings per position (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, DEF) based on that week's matchup.

How do we arrive at our rankings?

We average out rankings from various sources in an effort to reduce the variability between mainstream sites. We include ESPN, Yahoo! and CBS Sports in our rankings.

Here are the top 10 fantasy wide receivers in week 4:

1. Reggie Wayne, Colts (vs Seattle)
2. Randy Moss, Patriots (vs Baltimore)
3. Calvin Johnson, Lions (at Chicago)
4. Vincent Jackson, Chargers (at Pittsburgh)
5. Andre Johnson, Texans (vs Oakland)
6. Chad Ochocinco, Bengals (at Cleveland)
7. Greg Jennings, Packers (at Minnesota)
8. Steve Smith, Giants (at Kansas City)
9. Santonio Holmes, Steelers (vs San Diego)
10. Jerricho Cotchery, Jets (at New Orleans)

See full list of top 50 wide receivers for week 4.

More rankings: top 25 QBs | top 40 RBs | top 20 TEs | top 20 kickers | top 20 team defenses.

FYI: Here's the link to our free fantasy football survivor contest.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 08:34 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Tight End Rankings - Week 4

Every week, we provide fantasy football rankings per position (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, DEF) based on that week's matchup.

How do we arrive at our rankings?

We average out rankings from various sources in an effort to reduce the variability between mainstream sites. We include ESPN, Yahoo! and CBS Sports in our rankings.

Here are the top 10 tight ends in week 4:

1. Dallas Clark, Colts (vs Seattle)
2. Jason Witten, Cowboys (at Denver)
3. Chris Cooley, Redskins (vs Tampa Bay)
4. Owen Daniels, Texans (vs Oakland)
5. Antonio Gates, Chargers (at Pittsburgh)
6. Greg Olsen, Bears (vs Detroit)
7. Vernon Davis, 49ers (vs St. Louis)
8. Dustin Keller, Jets (at New Orleans)
9. Kellen Winslow, Buccaneers (at Washington)
10. Jeremy Shockey, Saints (vs NY Jets)

See full list of top 20 tight ends for week 4.

More rankings: top 25 QBs | top 40 RBs | top 50 WRs | top 20 kickers | top 20 team defenses.

FYI: Here's the link to our free fantasy football survivor contest.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 08:27 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Team Defense Rankings - Week 4

Every week, we provide fantasy football rankings per position (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, DEF) based on that week's matchup.

How do we arrive at our rankings?

We average out rankings from various sources in an effort to reduce the variability between mainstream sites. We include ESPN, Yahoo! and CBS Sports in our rankings.

Here are the top 10 team defenses in week 4:

1. New York Giants (at Kansas City)
2. Cincinnati Bengals (at Cleveland)
3. San Francisco 49ers (vs St. Louis)
4. Chicago Bears (vs Detroit)
5. Washington Redskins (vs Tampa Bay)
6. Minnesota Vikings (vs Green Bay)
7. Indianapolis Colts (vs Seattle)
8. Pittsburgh Steelers (vs San Diego)
9. Baltimore Ravens (at New England)
10. Tennessee Titans (at Jacksonville)

See full list of top 20 defenses for week 4.

Also, see our other rankings: top 25 QBs | top 40 RBs | top 50 WRs | top 20 TEs | top 20 kickers.

FYI: Here's the link to our free fantasy football survivor contest.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 08:19 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Kicker Rankings - Week 4

Every week, we provide fantasy football rankings per position (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, DEF) based on that week's matchup.

How do we arrive at our rankings?

We average out rankings from various sources in an effort to reduce the variability between mainstream sites. We include ESPN, Yahoo! and CBS Sports in our rankings.

Here are the top 10 kickers in week 4:

1. Stephen Gostkowski, Patriots (vs Baltimore)
2. Ryan Longwell, Vikings (vs Green Bay)
3. John Carney, Saints (vs NY Jets)
4. Lawrence Tynes, Giants (at Kansas City)
5. Robbie Gould, Bears (vs Detroit)
6. Mason Crosby, Packers (at Minnesota)
7. Shayne Graham, Bengals (at Cleveland)
8. Kris Brown, Texans (vs Oakland)
9. Rian Lindell, Bills (at Miami)
10. Nate Kaeding, Chargers (at Pittsburgh)

See full list of top 20 kickers for week 4.

Also, see our other rankings: top 25 QBs | top 40 RBs | top 50 WRs | top 20 TEs | top 20 team defenses.

FYI: Here's the link to our free fantasy football survivor contest.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 07:59 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

The Weekly Blitz - Week 4

Every week, I pick three NFL games against the spread (ATS) for entertainment purposes only (of course). On the season, I'm off to a mediocre start (5-4 ATS), but I am ready to get back on track in week 4.

Giants -9 (over Chiefs): The Giants may have a secondary (and team in general) that's banged up, but man can they cover. In the past three seasons, the Giants are 29-11 against the spread (ATS). On the road, they are an amazing 17-3 ATS. Arrowhead may be a tough place to play and Kansas City fans are passionate. But the Chiefs are 4-12 ATS in the past three seasons. The Chiefs have put up the third-fewest offensive yards through three weeks (264.3 ypg) and only five teams have allowed more points scored (28.3 ppg) than the Chiefs.

Bengals -6 (over Browns): The Browns are bad. (Someone say, "How bad are they?") They are so bad that they've scored only one offensive touchdown in nine games. Through three games in 2009, they are averaging a league low of 218 offensive yards per game. In week four, the "Man-genius" will make a change at QB and play Derek Anderson, who threw three interceptions in the second half last week against the Ravens. The Bengals defense is tied for the NFL lead in sacks (10). The Browns have seen their quarterback get sacked 11 times, which is the second most in the league. That seems like a match made in heaven.

Packers +3.5 (over Vikings): Last week, Brett Favre led the Vikings to a 27-24 win over the 49ers on a last-second touchdown pass to Greg Lewis. That is the gun-slinging Favre at his best. So far this season, Favre has been efficient throwing five touchdowns and only one interception. The emotions are going to be running high on Monday night. Regardless of what he says, Favre wants badly to stick it to the Packers -- or specifically to Packers GM Ted Thompson. I expect Favre to try to do too much and make a few (or a lot of) mistakes. In the past three seasons (including one with Favre as QB), the Packers are 10-3 against the spread when playing division rivals.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 10:02 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

The Daily Blitz discusses NFL rumors and news, NCAA football, Fantasy Football and the NFL draft and is the blog for Eat, Drink and Sleep Football.

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