TheDailyBlitz.com: Kansas City Chiefs Archives

Jamaal Charles sets Chiefs' rushing record

Kansas City Chiefs running back Jamaal Charles capped the season with a record-setting 259-yard performance against the Denver Broncos.

It was the fourth straight game that Charles surpassed the 100-yard mark and he finished the year with 1,130 yards.

"They really couldn't stop us all day," said Charles (via the Associated Press). "My O-line, they did a great job of pushing, making me get 6, 7, 8 yards per carry, and all I need is a crease."

In the final eight games of the season, Charles rushed for 968 yards and seven touchdowns.

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

Broncos bench Marshall for finale

The Denver Broncos, who started 6-0, have won only two of their past nine games. With an 8-7 record, the Broncos need a win against Kansas City (and some help with tie-breakers) to make the playoffs.

If they beat the Chiefs, it will be without stud receiver Brandon Marshall, who has been benched for week 17, according to the Associated Press.

"Our word for the week has been accountability. And we're looking to put the 45 guys on the field on Sunday that want to play together, want to help us try to win and qualify for the playoffs," [Broncos coach Josh] McDaniels said. "... And anybody that showed any indifference to that, we'll play without them."

Not only will the Broncos be without Marshall, but they'll also be without tight end Tony Scheffler. Both will become restricted free agents after the season ends.

If the Broncos make the playoffs, however, it will be interesting to see whether Marshall and/or Scheffler are active for the playoffs.

"Anything I do moving forward is going to be in a professional manner," Marshall said. "I'm not going to get into any he said/she said like we've done in the past. I think that's childish, and like I said, I don't think there's any question about my toughness, the way I play the game. It could be first-and-10 and if I gain 15 yards, I'm still fighting for 16 yards."

Two weeks ago, Marshall set the single-game record with 21 receptions against the Colts. In that game, he had 200 receiving yards and two touchdowns. And he was named to the AFC Pro Bowl squad earlier in the week.

Without Marshall, Scheffler and possibly Eddie Royal (injury) out of Sunday's lineup though, expect for running back Knowshon Moreno -- and, to a lesser extent, Correll Buckhalter -- to receive a heavy workload against a run-friendly Kansas City defense.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 12:41 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Football: Week 14 RB Start'em

It's week 14 and it's time for fantasy football playoffs. Here are four running backs that I'd be comfortable starting this week:

Jamaal Charles, Chiefs (vs Bills): Charles has received 14-18 carries in each of the past four weeks and he has scored three rushing touchdowns during that span. On the season, no team has allowed more points to opposing running backs than the Bills. Plus, they have allowed 200+ rushing yards in one-third of their games this season.

Fred Jackson, Bills (vs Chiefs): Jamaal Charles isn't the only RB in this game that has a highly favorable matchup. The Chiefs have allowed the fifth-most fantasy points to opposing running backs and last week they allowed a season-worst 246 rushing yards. In the past five games, they've given up seven rushing TDs. Despite Jackson's weak performance in week 13, Bills coach Perry Fewell will still be the featured back in the offense.

Quinton Ganther, Redskins (vs Raiders): Clinton Portis and Ladell Betts are on IR. And Ganther will get the start in week 14. Ganther, who was born in Oakland, has had 13 carries in the past two games for 78 yards. Considering that the Redskins face the Raiders, who have allowed the most rushing touchdowns in the NFL (18), Ganther should be in for a productive day as a flex play.

Knowshon Moreno, Broncos (vs Colts): Moreno has rushed for 80+ yards in four consecutive weeks and he's scored three rushing touchdowns in the past two weeks. In the past three weeks, the Colts have allowed the seventh-most fantasy points to opposing running backs. Provided the Colts don't jump out to a 14-0 first-quarter lead forcing the Broncos into passing mode, Moreno should have a big day. But, in either case, he should be productive and is a good start as a RB2 or flex play.

Check back later for our position-by-position rankings for week 14.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 09:41 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Football: Top 50 WRs for Week 13

With the fantasy football playoffs on the horizon, here are my top 5 wide receivers for week 13:

1. Randy Moss, Patriots (at Dolphins): In his first matchup against the Dolphins, who rank in the bottom 10 in passing yards allowed (233 ypg), Moss had six receptions for 147 yards and one TD. On the season, Moss leads the NFL in receiving yards (992) and is only one behind the leaders in TD receptions (eight). After getting their ass whooped on prime-time TV, expect the Patriots, Tom Brady, Moss & Co. to come out swinging.

2. Andre Johnson, Texans (at Jaguars): Johnson is one of the league's most complete receivers and perhaps the most underrated. This week, Johnson gets a favorable matchup against the Jaguars, who have allowed the fourth-most fantasy points to receivers this season. On the season, Johnson ranks fourth in the league in receiving yards (945).

3. Larry Fitzgerald, Cardinals (vs Vikings): The Vikings have been without Antoine Winfield, the team's best cornerback, for the past five games. On the season, the Vikings have allowed the 10th-most fantasy points to opposing wide receivers. My expectation is for QB Kurt Warner to return from his concussion as Fitzgerald had his worst game of the season with Matt Leinart as QB last week. Fitzgerald is tied for the league lead in touchdowns (nine) including four TDs in the last three games in which Warner has played.

4. Reggie Wayne, Colts (vs Titans): Wayne is second in receptions (79), second in receiving yards (987) and tied for first in touchdowns (nine) in the league. In addition to their improvements with Vince Young under center, the Titans have improved on the defensive side of the ball as they are healthier now. Only the Lions (27) have allowed more receiving touchdowns than the Titans (25) on the season. During their five-game winning streak, however, the Titans have allowed only the 18th-most fantasy points to opposing receivers.

5. Sidney Rice, Vikings (at Cardinals): In three of his past six games, Rice has 136 receiving yards or more including a game with 201yards. With the exception of his game at Green Bay, Rice has had 89 yards or more in five of his past six. Favre and Rice have built chemistry quickly and they have a favorable matchup against the Cardinals, who have allowed the seventh-most fantasy points to receivers this season.

Click here for top 50 wide receivers for week 13.

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

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 07:11 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Football: Top 40 RBs for Week 13

With the fantasy football playoffs on the horizon, here are my top 5 running backs for week 13:

1. Thomas Jones, Jets (at Bills): The first time that Jones faced the Bills this season, he rushed for 210 yards and a touchdown. The Bills have allowed the most fantasy points to opposing running backs this season and only the Raiders have allowed more rushing TDs than the Bills (16). Since the Jets want QB Mark Sanchez to air it out less and less (his attempts have gone from 35 to 30 to 21 to 17), Jones better bring his lunch-pail tonight.

2. Chris Johnson, Titans (at Colts): As well as Johnson has played in the past six weeks (125+ rushing yards every week), you can consider Johnson 1(a) -- not #2 -- in this week's rankings. During their five-game winning streak, Johnson has rushed for seven touchdowns. Although the Colts have a middle-of-the-pack run defense on the season, they've given up the 11th-most fantasy points to opposing RBs in the past three weeks.

3. DeAngelo Williams, Panthers (vs Buccaneers): DeAngelo has cooled off a bit with no touchdowns in the past three weeks and only one 100-yard game during that span. The first time that Williams faced the Buccaneers this season, he carried the ball 30 times for 152 yards and two scores. Expect more of the same against the league's third-worst rush defense.

4. Adrian Peterson, Vikings (at Cardinals): The Cardinals were the league's top-ranked run defense earlier in the season, but they have dropped to 14th in the NFL against the run (108.6 ypg allowed). In four of the past five weeks, they have allowed an opposing running back to eclipse the century mark. Surprisingly, Peterson has only three 100-yard games on the season, but he is second in the league with 12 rushing touchdowns.

5. Maurice Jones-Drew, Jaguars (vs Texans): MJD has rushed for more rushing touchdowns (13) than any other running back. (Of course, none of those are as famous as the TD that he didn't score.) That said, Jones-Drew faces a Texans run defense that turned itself around after the first three weeks. In week 3, however, MJD rushed for 119 yards and three touchdowns.

Click here for top 40 running backs for week 13.

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

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 05:46 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (1)

Fantasy Football: Top 25 QBs for Week 13

It's time to put up or shut up. If you haven't yet clinched a playoff berth in your fantasy league, it likely comes down to week 13 for you as most fantasy leagues start their playoffs in week 14.

And to paraphrase Bill Parcells, this is why you buy those cheat sheets, do those mock drafts, etc. -- to get into (and win in) the playoffs.

Here are my top 5 quarterbacks for week 13:

1. Peyton Manning, Colts (vs Titans): Manning is the only QB to average over 300 passing yards per game (310.5) and is second in passing touchdowns (24). While the Titans and their defense have been playing better lately, they have allowed the second-most passing touchdowns (25) this season.

2. Brett Favre, Vikings (at Cardinals): In his past four games, Favre has thrown 12 touchdowns and no interceptions. On the season, Arizona allows the fourth-most passing yards (258.3 ypg).

3. Drew Brees, Saints (at Redskins): Brees is coming off a five-TD performance against the Patriots in what was arguably the most important regular-season game in team history. Although this week's opponent (Washington) allows the fewest passing yards in the NFL (170.4 ypg), Brees and the Saints offense are firing on all cylinders right now.

4. Tom Brady, Patriots (at Dolphins): Brady failed to connect on a TD pass last week, but he had 332 passing yards against the Dolphins in their first match-up. With targets like Randy Moss and Wes Welker, it's not likely that Brady goes TD-less in back-to-back games.

5. Philip Rivers, Chargers (at Chiefs): Rivers has posted three consecutive 100+ QB ratings and this week he faces the Browns, who have allowed the ninth-most passing yards (233.4 ypg) this season. In the past four games, Rivers has thrown eight touchdowns and only two interceptions.

Click here for top 25 quarterbacks for week 13.

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

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 06:59 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Chiefs waive Larry Johnson

After serving his one-game suspension for conduct detrimental to the team, running back Larry Johnson was waived by the Chiefs, per the Associated Press.

For teams interested in Johnson, they can make a waiver claim for him by 4 p.m. today. If a team claims Johnson off waivers, they would owe him the prorated remainder of his $4.55 million salary. If he clears waivers, then he would be free to sign with any team.

Chiefs coach Todd Haley wouldn't comment specifically on whether it was his low production or his recent off-the-field issues that were the primary reason for his release.

“It wouldn’t be fair of me to try to comment on that in any way other than to say the totality of the situation was factored in—what we felt was best for the Kansas City Chiefs,” Haley said.

In any event, Johnson, who had 2,199 yards from scrimmage in 2006, could provide some value to some teams who need help at running back.

However, those teams will likely think twice.

Not only has his production declined considerably and he's nearly 30 years old (Nov. 19th), he's a potential cancer to bring to the locker room (and to the night clubs in the team's community).

Some rumored landing spots for LJ are Pittsburgh, by whom Johnson thought he might have been drafted, and Washington, where Clinton Portis recently suffered a concussion and is doubtful for Sunday's game.

Meanwhile that leaves Jamaal Charles, who is averaging over 5 yards per carry for his career, as the starting running back in KC.

In his start Sunday, however, Charles was only given six carries (for 36 yards) while Kolby Smith, who was activated from the PUP list, received four carries.

Charles (and Kansas City) has favorable matchups down the stretch in fantasy football against average-to-bad run defenses, such as Oakland, San Diego, Buffalo and Cleveland. It remains to be seen whether the Chiefs will allow Charles to take advantage of those matchups by giving him the rock.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 06:59 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Football: RB Studs for Week 9

This is the final of three consecutive weeks where six teams have their bye week. Some notable running backs on bye are Minnesota's Adrian Peterson, St. Louis' Steven Jackson and New York's Thomas Jones.

That said, here are three running backs that may be a little under the radar that I expect to have a big week:

Jonathan Stewart, Panthers: It should be fairly obvious that Stewart's running mate, DeAngelo Williams, is a must-start every week. And I expect Williams to have a huge game this week. That said, Stewart should have a strong performance as well. In the past four games, Williams and Stewart have combined for a total of 700 rushing yards and seven touchdowns. During that span, Stewart has scored four times including twice last week against what was the league's top-ranked rush defense. This week, the Panthers face a Saints defense that has lost defensive tackle Sedrick Ellis for several weeks and has allowed six rushing touchdowns in the past three games. Only the Giants have allowed more (7) during that span. As the Panthers enter tomorrow's game in a hostile environment as a 13-point underdog against the unbeaten Saints, look for both Stewart and Williams to get a heavy dose of carries as the Panthers try to keep the Saints' high-powered offense off the field and take the crowd out of the game.

Jamaal Charles, Chiefs: As Larry Johnson finds himself in the team's doghouse again, Jamaal Charles will finally get his shot to be the offense's featured back. In 90 career rushing attempts, Charles is averaging 5.3 yards per carry. This week he faces the Jacksonville Jaguars, who allowed Tennessee's Chris Johnson to run for 228 yards last week. Charles, who was drafted in the third-round last year, should get more opportunities to start beyond this week even though LJ's suspension officially ends after this week. If so, Charles will have several favorable matchups in the weeks ahead including Oakland, San Diego, Buffalo and Cleveland to go along with a favorable matchup this week.

Pierre Thomas, Saints: The Saints can pass it and can run it. Quarterback Drew Brees is one of the league's top three quarterbacks and the Saints are tied for the most passing touchdowns (16) in the league. But what may not be as widely-known is the Saints rank fourth in the NFL in rushing yards per game (153.3). Of the three options in New Orleans, Thomas is the best bet (over Reggie Bush and Mike Bell). Thomas is averaging nearly six yards per carry. And running on Carolina is much easier than passing on them. The Panthers' pass defense ranks first in the NFL in yards allowed (160.6 ypg). Meanwhile the Panthers run defense ranks 24th in the league and they've allowed the eighth-most fantasy points to running backs. In addition, no other team has allowed running backs to catch touchdown passes (four) than the Panthers have.

See week 9 consensus rankings for running backs.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 07:14 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Quarterback Rankings - Week 9

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 9:

1. Tom Brady, Patriots (vs Miami)
2. Peyton Manning, Colts (vs Houston)
3. Aaron Rodgers, Packers (at Tampa Bay)
4. Drew Brees, Saints (vs Carolina)
5. Philip Rivers, Chargers (at NY Giants)
6. Donovan McNabb, Eagles (vs Dallas)
7. Matt Hasselbeck, Seahawks (vs Detroit)
8. Tony Romo, Cowboys (at Philadelphia)
9. Kurt Warner, Cardinals (at Chicago)
10. Matt Schaub, Texans (at Indianapolis)

See full list of top 25 quarterbacks for week 9.

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

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 10:42 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Running Back Rankings - Week 9

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 9:

1. Maurice Jones-Drew, Jaguars (vs Kansas City)
2. Ray Rice, Ravens (at Cincinnati)
3. DeAngelo Williams, Panthers (at New Orleans)
4. Michael Turner, Falcons (vs Washington)
5. Ryan Grant, Packers (at Tampa Bay)
6. Brandon Jacobs, Giants (vs San Diego)
7. Chris Johnson, Titans (at San Francisco)
8. Cedric Benson, Bengals (vs Baltimore)
9. Frank Gore, 49ers (vs Tennessee)
10. Pierre Thomas, Saints (vs Carolina)

See full list of top 40 running backs for week 9.

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

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

Fantasy Wide Receiver Rankings - Week 9

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 9:

1. Reggie Wayne, Colts (vs Houston)
2. Randy Moss, Patriots (vs Miami)
3. Larry Fitzgerald, Cardinals (at Chicago)
4. Vincent Jackson, Chargers (at NY Giants)
5. Marques Colston, Saints (vs Carolina)
6. Andre Johnson, Texans (at Indianapolis)
7. DeSean Jackson, Eagles (vs Dallas)
8. Wes Welker, Patriots (vs Miami)
9. Chad Ochocinco, Bengals (vs Baltimore)
10. Greg Jennings, Packers (at Tampa Bay)

See full list of top 50 wide receivers for week 9.

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

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 10:22 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Tight End Rankings - Week 9

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 9:

1. Dallas Clark, Colts (vs Houston)
2. Antonio Gates, Chargers (at NY Giants)
3. Jason Witten, Cowboys (at Philadelphia)
4. Vernon Davis, 49ers (vs Tennessee)
5. Brent Celek, Eagles (vs Dallas)
6. Tony Gonzalez, Falcons (vs Washington)
7. Jeremy Shockey, Saints (vs Carolina)
8. John Carlson, Seahawks (vs Detroit)
9. Fred Davis, Redskins (at Atlanta)
10. Kellen Winslow, Buccaneers (vs Green Bay)

See full list of top 20 tight ends for week 9.

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

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 10:09 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Defense Rankings - Week 9

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 9:

1. Green Bay Packers (at Tampa Bay)
2. New Orleans Saints (vs Carolina)
3. Seattle Seahawks (vs Detroit)
4. Pittsburgh Steelers (at Denver)
5. New England Patriots (vs Miami)
6. San Francisco 49ers (vs Tennessee)
7. Philadelphia Eagles (vs Dallas)
8. Atlanta Falcons (vs Washington)
9. Denver Broncos (vs Pittsburgh)
10. Indianapolis Colts (vs Houston)

See full list of top 20 defenses for week 9.

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

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 09:56 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

Dwayne Bowe is out vs Eagles

The Eagles will be without several players today -- QB Donovan McNabb, RB Brian Westbrook, WR Kevin Curtis, etc. -- against the Chiefs.

Chiefs receiver Dwayne Bowe is inactive for today's game as well, according to Adam Teicher of the Kansas City Star.

In addition to being without Bowe, receiver Quinten Lawrence is inactive.

Bowe has nine receptions for 96 yards and two touchdowns in the first two games of the season.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 12:19 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Quarterback Rankings - Week 3

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 3:

1. Drew Brees, Saints (at Buffalo)
2. Peyton Manning, Colts (at Arizona)
3. Aaron Rodgers, Packers (at St. Louis)
4. Philip Rivers, Chargers (vs Miami)
5. Tom Brady, Patriots (vs Atlanta)
6. Matt Schaub, Texans (vs Jacksonville)
7. Kurt Warner, Cardinals (vs Indianapolis)
8. Tony Romo, Cowboys (vs Carolina)
9. Matt Ryan, Falcons (at New England)
10. Eli Manning, Giants (at Tampa Bay)

See full list of top 25 quarterbacks for week 3.

Also, see our other 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 10:56 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Running Back Rankings - Week 3

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 3:

1. Maurice Jones-Drew, Jaguars (at Houston)
2. Adrian Peterson, Vikings (vs San Francisco)
3. Matt Forte, Bears (at Seattle)
4. Michael Turner, Falcons (at New England)
5. DeAngelo Williams, Panthers (at Dallas)
6. Ryan Grant, Packers (at St. Louis)
7. Brandon Jacobs, Giants (at Tampa Bay)
8. Steven Jackson, Rams (vs Green Bay)
9. Fred Jackson, Bills (vs New Orleans)
10. Clinton Portis, Redskins (at Detroit)

See full list of top 40 running backs for week 3.

Also, see our other 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 10:44 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Wide Receiver Rankings - Week 3

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 3:

1. Andre Johnson, Texans (vs Jacksonville)
2. Reggie Wayne, Colts (at Arizona)
3. Marques Colston, Saints (at Buffalo)
4. Randy Moss, Patriots (vs Atlanta)
5. Larry Fitzgerald, Cardinals (vs Indianapolis)
6. Steve Smith, Panthers (at Dallas)
7. Greg Jennings, Packers (at St. Louis)
8. Calvin Johnson, Lions (vs Washington)
9. Roddy White, Falcons (at New England)
10. Santonio Holmes, Steelers (at Cincinnati)

See full list of top 50 wide receivers for week 3.

Also, see our other 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 10:39 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Tight End Rankings - Week 3

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 3:

1. Antonio Gates, Chargers (vs Miami)
2. Dallas Clark, Colts (at Arizona)
3. Tony Gonzalez, Falcons (at New England)
4. Jason Witten, Cowboys (vs Carolina)
5. Chris Cooley, Redskins (at Detroit)
6. Kellen Winslow, Buccaneers (vs NY Giants)
7. Owen Daniels, Texans (vs Jacksonville)
8. Jeremy Shockey, Saints (at Buffalo)
9. Dustin Keller, Jets (vs Tennessee)
10. Brent Celek, Eagles (vs Kansas City>

See full list of top 20 tight ends for week 3.

Also, see our other 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 10:17 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Team Defense Rankings - Week 3

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 3:

1. Ravens (vs Cleveland)
2. Eagles (vs Kansas City)
3. Steelers (at Cincinnati)
4. Packers (at St. Louis)
5. Giants (at Tampa Bay)
6. Jets (vs Tennessee)
7. Vikings (vs San Francisco)
8. Redskins (vs St. Louis)
9. Bears (at Seattle)
10. Broncos (at Oakland)

See full list of top 20 defenses for week 3.

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 10:09 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Kicker Rankings - Week 3

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 3:

1. Lawrence Tynes, Giants (at Tampa Bay)
2. Nate Kaeding, Chargers (vs Miami)
3. Stephen Gostkowski, Patriots (vs Atlanta)
4. David Akers, Eagles (vs Kansas City)
5. Ryan Longwell, Vikings (vs San Francisco)
6. Mason Crosby, Packers (at St. Louis)
7. Neil Rackers, Cardinals (vs Indianapolis)
8. John Carney, Saints (at Buffalo)
9. Nick Folk, Cowboys (vs Carolina)
10. Kris Brown, Texans (vs Jacksonville)

See full list of top 20 kickers for week 3.

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 09:59 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Matt Cassel to start Sunday in Philadelphia

The Kansas City Chiefs will start Matt Cassel at quarterback on Sunday against the Philadelphia Eagles, per the Associated Press.

In last week's game against the Raiders, Cassel finished with a passer rating of only 66.3 and threw two interceptions and one touchdown. In the season opener against the Ravens, Brodie Croyle finished with a passer rating of 116.1, two touchdowns and no interceptions.

General manager Scott Pioli traded for and subsequently signed Cassel to a six-year contract extension, but Chiefs coach Todd Haley is more than willing to switch to Croyle (or another QB) if Cassel struggles against the Eagles' defense as well.

“You’ve got to ultimately do what you think gives your team the best chance to win,” Haley said. “If that means another quarterback being in there other than Matt Cassel, then sign me up.”

Haley points out how well the Warner-for-Leinart switch worked out.

“When we made that change, there was a lot of negative feedback— 'What about the future?' There weren’t too many people saying much when we were in the Super Bowl last year,” Haley said.

In his first season as a starter since high school, Cassel threw for 3,693 yards, 21 touchdowns and 11 interceptions with the Patriots last year.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 10:52 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Football QB Rankings - Week 2

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 2:

1. Drew Brees, Saints (at Philadelphia)
2. Peyton Manning, Colts (at Miami)
3. Tom Brady, Patriots (at NY Jets)
4. Aaron Rodgers, Packers (vs Cincinnati)
5. Tony Romo, Cowboys (vs NY Giants)
6. Matt Ryan, Falcons (vs Carolina)
7. Philip Rivers, Chargers (vs Baltimore)
8. Ben Roethlisberger, Steelers (at Chicago)
9. Kurt Warner, Cardinals (at Jacksonville)
10. Matt Hasselbeck, Seahawks (at San Francisco)

See full list of top 25 quarterbacks for week 2.

Also, see our other 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 07:07 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Football RB Rankings - Week 2

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 2:

1. Adrian Peterson, Vikings (at Detroit)
2. Maurice Jones-Drew, Jaguars (vs Arizona)
3. Michael Turner, Falcons (vs Carolina)
4. Clinton Portis, Redskins (vs St. Louis)
5. Brian Westbrook, Eagles (vs New Orleans)
6. DeAngelo Williams, Panthers (at Atlanta)
7. Frank Gore, 49ers (vs Seattle)
8. Chris Johnson, Titans (vs Houston)
9. Ryan Grant, Packers (vs Cincinnati)
10. Thomas Jones, Jets (vs New England)

See full list of top 40 running backs for week 2.

Also, see our other 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 06:58 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Football WR Rankings - Week 2

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 2:

1. Larry Fitzgerald, Cardinals (at Jacksonville)
2. Reggie Wayne, Colts (at Miami)
3. Randy Moss, Patriots (at NY Jets)
4. Greg Jennings, Packers (vs Cincinnati)
5. Calvin Johnson, Lions (vs Minnesota)
6. Andre Johnson, Texans (at Tennessee)
7. Marques Colston, Saints (at Philadelphia)
8. Roddy White, Falcons (vs Carolina)
9. T.J. Houshmandzadeh, Seahawks (at San Francisco)
10. Wes Welker, Patriots (at NY Jets)

See full list of top 50 wide receivers for week 2.

Also, see our other 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 06:37 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Football TE Rankings - Week 2

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 2:

1. Tony Gonzalez, Falcons (vs Carolina)
2. Dallas Clark, Colts (at Miami)
3. Jason Witten, Cowboys (vs NY GIants)
4. Chris Cooley, Redskins (vs St. Louis)
5. Antonio Gates, Chargers (vs Baltimore)
6. John Carlson, Seahawks (at San Francisco)
7. Todd Heap, Ravens (at San Diego)
8. Zach Miller, Raiders (at Kansas City)
9. Dustin Keller, Jets (vs New England)
10. Visanthe Shiancoe, Vikings (at Detroit)

See full list of top 20 tight ends for week 2.

Also, see our other 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 06:26 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Football Team Defense Rankings - Week 2

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 2:

1. Vikings (at Detroit)
2. Packers (vs Cincinnati)
3. Steelers (at Chicago)
4. Redskins (vs St. Louis)
5. Titans (vs Houston)
6. Ravens (at San Diego)
7. Falcons (vs Carolina)
8. Giants (at Dallas)
9. Patriots (at NY Jets)
10. Seahawks (at San Francisco)

See full list of top 20 defenses for week 2.

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 10:07 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Football Kickers - Week 2

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 2:

1. Stephen Gostkowski, Patriots (at NY Jets)
2. Mason Crosby, Packers (vs Cincinnati)
3. Ryan Longwell, Vikings (at Detroit)
4. David Akers, Eagles (vs New Orleans)
5. Nate Kaeding, Chargers (vs Baltimore)
6. Rob Bironas, Titans (vs Houston)
7. Neil Rackers, Cardinals (at Jacksonville)
8. Jason Elam, Falcons (vs Carolina)
9. Nick Folk, Cowboys (vs NY Giants)
10. John Carney, Saints (at Philadelphia)

See full list of top 20 kickers for week 2.

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 09:59 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

2009 AFC West Prediction

Here are my predictions for the AFC West:

SAN DIEGO CHARGERS
Prediction: 11-5 (Chargers Schedule | Chargers Forum)

There isn't a division in football that is more lopsided than this division. I'm certainly not going out on a limb when I say that the Chargers are going to easily run away with the AFC West this year. Last year, nagging injuries slowed LaDainian Tomlinson, who still rushed for over 1,100 yards in a down season. This pre-season, LT played as much as he had in all of his previous pre-seasons combined. That should help get him into a groove sooner than he normally does and I expect a motivated Tomlinson, who restructured his contract to avoid getting cut, to have a bounce-back year. On the defensive side of the ball, they get back LB Shawne "Lights Out" Merriman, who missed the entire 2008 season. The Chargers could have the division clinched by week 12.

Strength of Schedule: 2009 opponents had a .484 winning percentage in 2008 (T17th)

2008 Playoff Teams on Schedule (6): vs Baltimore, vs Miami, at Pittsburgh, at NY Giants, vs Philadelphia, at Tennessee

# of Wins Past 3 Years: 34 (11.3 per season)

Continue reading "2009 AFC West Prediction" »

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 07:16 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Kicker Rankings - Week 1

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 1:

1. Stephen Gostkowski, Patriots (vs Buffalo)
2. Mason Crosby, Packers (vs Chicago)
3. Neil Rackers, Cardinals (vs San Francisco)
4. John Carney, Saints (vs Detroit)
5. Nate Kaeding, Chargers (at Oakland)
6. Ryan Longwell, Vikings (at Cleveland)
7. Kris Brown, Texans (vs NY Jets)
8. David Akers, Eagles (at Carolina)
9. Jason Elam, Falcons (vs Miami)
10. Nick Folk, Cowboys (at Tampa Bay)

See full list of top 20 kickers for week 1.

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 08:05 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

2009 Fantasy Defense Rankings - Week 1

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 1:

1. Ravens (vs Kansas City)
2. Vikings (at Cleveland)
3. Patriots (vs Buffalo)
4. Chargers (at Oakland)
5. Giants (vs Washington)
6. Steelers (vs Tennessee)
7. Cowboys (at Tampa Bay)
8. Seahawks (vs St. Louis)
9. Eagles (at Carolina)
10. Titans (at Pittsburgh)

See full list of top 20 defenses for week 1.

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 08:04 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

2009 Fantasy WR Rankings - Week 1

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 1:

1. Randy Moss, Patriots (vs Buffalo)
2. Larry Fitzgerald, Cardinals (vs San Francisco)
3. Calvin Johnson, Lions (at New Orleans)
4. Andre Johnson, Texans (vs NY Jets)
5. Marques Colston, Saints (vs Detroit)
6. Reggie Wayne, Colts (vs Jacksonville)
7. Greg Jennings, Packers (vs Chicago)
8. T.J. Houshmandzadeh, Seahawks (vs St. Louis)
9. Roddy White, Falcons (vs Miami)
10. Anquan Boldin, Cardinals (vs San Francisco)

See full list of top 50 wide receivers for week 1.

Also, see our other 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 07:48 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

2009 Fantasy RB Rankings - Week 1

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 1:

1. Adrian Peterson, Vikings (at Cleveland)
2. LaDainian Tomlinson, Chargers (at Oakland)
3. Matt Forte, Bears (at Green Bay)
4. Maurice Jones-Drew, Jaguars (at Indianapolis)
5. Steven Jackson, Rams (at Seattle)
6. Frank Gore, 49ers (at Arizona)
7. DeAngelo Williams, Panthers (vs Philadelphia)
8. Brian Westbrook, Eagles (at Carolina)
9. Michael Turner, Falcons (vs Miami)
10. Brandon Jacobs, Giants (vs Washington)

See full list of top 40 running backs for week 1.

Also, see our other 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 07:32 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

2009 Fantasy QB Rankings - Week 1

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 1:

1. Tom Brady, Patriots (vs Buffalo)
2. Drew Brees, Saints (vs Detroit)
3. Peyton Manning, Colts (vs Jacksonville)
4. Kurt Warner, Cardinals (vs San Francisco)
5. Aaron Rodgers, Packers (vs Bears)
6. Philip Rivers, Chargers (at Raiders)
7. Donovan McNabb, Eagles (at Carolina)
8. Matt Schaub, Texans (vs NY Jets)
9. Matt Hasselbeck, Seahawks (vs St. Louis)
10. Tony Romo, Cowboys (at Tampa Bay)

See full list of top 25 quarterbacks for week 1.

Also, see our other 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 07:10 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

2009 Fantasy TE Rankings - Week 1

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 1:

1. Jason Witten, Cowboys (at Tampa Bay)
2. Antonio Gates, Chargers (at Oakland)
3. Dallas Clark, Colts (vs Jacksonville)
4. Greg Olsen, Bears (at Green Bay)
5. Tony Gonzalez, Falcons (vs Miami)
6. John Carlson, Seahawks (vs St. Louis)
7. Owen Daniels, Texans (vs NY Jets)
8. Chris Cooley, Redskins (at NY Giants)
9. Visanthe Shiancoe, Vikings (at Cleveland)
10. Zach Miller, Raiders (vs San Diego)

See full list of top 20 tight ends for week 1.

Also, see our other 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 06:32 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Links to all 32 NFL team final roster cuts

At 6 p.m. ET tonight, NFL teams were required to make their final cuts to reduce their roster from 75 players to 53 players.

Here are links to lists of cuts (or to the final 53-man roster) for all 32 NFL teams:

AFC East: Buffalo Bills, Miami Dolphins, New England Patriots, New York Jets
AFC North: Baltimore Ravens, Cincinnati Bengals, Cleveland Browns, Pittsburgh Steelers
AFC South: Houston Texans, Indianapolis Colts, Jacksonville Jaguars, Tennessee Titans
AFC West: Denver Broncos, Kansas City Chiefs, Oakland Raiders, San Diego Chargers

NFC East: Dallas Cowboys, New York Giants, Philadelphia Eagles, Washington Redskins
NFC North: Chicago Bears, Detroit Lions, Green Bay Packers, Minnesota Vikings
NFC South: Atlanta Falcons, Carolina Panthers, New Orleans Saints, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NFC West: Arizona Cardinals, San Francisco 49ers, Seattle Seahawks, St. Louis Rams

I will add links to the Colts' and Jaguars' cuts and/or 53-man rosters once I find links to them. [Links updated above]

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

Updated 9/4: Consensus Top 150 Fantasy Football Cheat Sheet

We have updated our Consensus Top 150 Fantasy Football Cheat Sheet, which averages five separate cheat sheets to arrive at a consensus ranking.

The primary benefit of using our cheat sheet over another site's individual cheat sheet is that you're less likely to be affected by the bias of one person or one site if those differences are smoothed out with a consensus ranking of various sources.

Here are top twenty players in order of average rank (Average Rank, Highest Rank, Lowest Rank in parenthesis):

1. Adrian Peterson, RB, Vikings (Average: 1.2, High: 1, Low: 2)
2. Maurice Jones-Drew, RB, Jaguars (Average: 2.6, High: 1, Low: 4)
3. Michael Turner, RB, Falcons (Average: 3.0, High: 2, Low: 4)
4. Matt Forte, RB, Bears (Average: 3.2, High: 2, Low: 4)
5. DeAngelo Williams, RB, Panthers (Average: 6.2, High: 5, Low: 10)
6. Steven Jackson, RB, Rams (Average: 6.6, High: 5, Low: 9)
7. Chris Johnson, RB, Titans (Average: 8.0, High: 6, Low: 11)
8. Larry Fitzgerald, WR, Cardinals (Average: 9.2, High: 6, Low: 12)
9. LaDainian Tomlinson, RB, Chargers (Average: 9.6, High: 6, Low: 16)
10. Frank Gore, RB, 49ers (Average: 10.0, High: 6, Low: 18)
11. Andre Johnson, WR, Texans (Average: 11.4, High: 9, Low: 13)
12. Steve Slaton, RB, Texans (Average: 11.4, High: 7, Low: 15)
13. Drew Brees, QB, Saints (Average: 14.6, High: 11, Low: 21)
14. Randy Moss, WR, Patriots (Average: 15.4, High: 13, Low: 17)
15. Calvin Johnson, WR, Lions (Average: 15.8, High: 14, Low: 19)
16. Brian Westbrook, RB, Eagles (Average: 16.2, High: 9, Low: 21)
17. Brandon Jacobs, RB, Giants (Average: 16.6, High: 11, Low: 22)
18. Marion Barber, RB, Cowboys (Average: 17.2, High: 10, Low: 22)
19. Clinton Portis, RB, Redskins (Average: 17.8, High: 13, Low: 24)
20. Tom Brady, QB, Patriots (Average: 18.4, High: 15, Low: 23)

Full Top 150 Consensus Rankings here.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 07:21 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Chan Gailey no longer offensive coordinator

Chan Gailey is no longer the offensive coordinator for the Kansas City Chiefs, per Adam Teicher of the Kansas City Star. The question remains whether or not he is anything (else) for the Chiefs.

Head coach Todd Haley, who was offensive coordinator for the Cardinals last year, was directing the offense today. And Gailey was not at practice.

“There’s never great timing for situations like this. However, Todd has to do what’s best for the team and for the future of the Chiefs," Gailey said in a statement. "I respect that. It didn’t work out for us, but I certainly think that he has a very fine offensive mind and I feel very fortunate to have worked for the Chiefs these past two years."

In three pre-season games, the Chiefs have only scored two offensive touchdowns.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 06:14 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Cassel's status for season opener in jeopardy

According to Jason Cole of Yahoo! Sports, Chiefs quarterback Matt Cassel may miss up to four weeks with a strained medial collateral ligament (MCL).

That puts Cassel's status for the season opener against the Baltimore Ravens in jeopardy. If Cassel can't play, the Chiefs would likely turn to Tyler Thigpen, who has been the subject of trade rumors, or Brodie Croyle.

According to ESPN, Thigpen took 80 percent of the snaps with the first team Monday.

"To me, it seems like deja vu five times over," running back Larry Johnson said. "It happened with Trent [Green in 2006], it happened with Brodie, it happened with Damon [Huard]."

Regardless of whether Cassel or Thigpen or Croyle is the quarterback on September 13th, it's unlikely that the Chiefs will go to M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore and leave with a victory over the Ravens.

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

Updated 8/27: Consensus Top 150 Fantasy Football Cheat Sheet

We have updated our Consensus Top 150 Fantasy Football Cheat Sheet, which averages five separate cheat sheets to arrive at a consensus ranking.

The primary benefit of using our cheat sheet over another site's individual cheat sheet is that you're less likely to be affected by the bias of one person or one site if those differences are smoothed out with a consensus ranking of various sources.

Here are top twenty players in order of average rank (Average Rank, Highest Rank, Lowest Rank in parenthesis):

1. Adrian Peterson, RB, Vikings (Average: 1.2, High: 1, Low: 2)
2. Maurice Jones-Drew, RB, Jaguars (Average: 2.6, High: 1, Low: 4)
3. Michael Turner, RB, Falcons (Average: 3.0, High: 2, Low: 4)
4. Matt Forte, RB, Bears (Average: 3.4, High: 2, Low: 5)
5. Steven Jackson, RB, Rams (Average: 6.4, High: 5, Low: 9)
6. DeAngelo Williams, RB, Panthers (Average: 6.8, High: 5, Low: 11)
7. Chris Johnson, RB, Titans (Average: 8.6, High: 6, Low: 13)
8. Larry Fitzgerald, WR, Cardinals (Average: 9.0, High: 6, Low: 11)
9. LaDainian Tomlinson, RB, Chargers (Average: 9.4, High: 4, Low: 16)
10. Frank Gore, RB, 49ers (Average: 10.0, High: 6, Low: 18)
11. Steve Slaton, RB, Texans (Average: 11.4, High: 7, Low: 15)
12. Andre Johnson, WR, Texans (Average: 11.8, High: 10, Low: 14)
13. Drew Brees, QB, Saints (Average: 14.0, High: 11, Low: 17)
14. Brian Westbrook, RB, Eagles (Average: 14.8, High: 7, Low: 21)
15. Randy Moss, WR, Patriots (Average: 15.6, High: 13, Low: 17)
16. Brandon Jacobs, RB, Giants (Average: 16.0, High: 12, Low: 22)
17. Marion Barber, RB, Cowboys (Average: 16.4, High: 10, Low: 20)
18. Calvin Johnson, WR, Lions (Average: 17.0, High: 14, Low: 21)
19. Clinton Portis, RB, Redskins (Average: 17.8, High: 14, Low: 24)
20. Tom Brady, QB, Patriots (Average: 18.6, High: 15, Low: 24)

Full Top 150 Consensus Rankings here.

Also, you can follow us on Twitter @EDSFootball or on Facebook's Networked Blogs.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 06:23 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

New consensus top 150 fantasy football cheat sheet (updated 8/16)

We have updated our Consensus Top 150 Fantasy Football Cheat Sheet, which averages five separate cheat sheets to arrive at a consensus ranking.

The primary benefit of using our cheat sheet over another site's individual cheat sheet is that you're less likely to be affected by the bias of one person or one site if those differences are smoothed out with a consensus ranking of various sources.

Here are top twenty players in order of average rank (Average Rank, Highest Rank, Lowest Rank in parenthesis):

1. Adrian Peterson, RB, Vikings (Average: 1.2, High: 1, Low: 2)
2. Maurice Jones-Drew, RB, Jaguars (Average: 2.6, High: 1, Low: 4)
3. Michael Turner, RB, Falcons (Average: 3.0, High: 2, Low: 4)
4. Matt Forte, RB, Bears (Average: 3.4, High: 2, Low: 5)
5. Steven Jackson, RB, Rams (Average: 6.4, High: 5, Low: 9)
6. DeAngelo Williams, RB, Panthers (Average: 7.2, High: 5, Low: 11)
7. Chris Johnson, RB, Titans (Average: 8.4, High: 6, Low: 13)
8. Larry Fitzgerald, WR, Cardinals (Average: 8.8, High: 6, Low: 11)
9. LaDainian Tomlinson, RB, Chargers (Average: 9.6, High: 4, Low: 17)
10. Frank Gore, RB, 49ers (Average: 10.2, High: 6, Low: 18)
11. Steve Slaton, RB, Texans (Average: 11.0, High: 7, Low: 15)
12. Andre Johnson, WR, Texans (Average: 12.0, High: 10, Low: 14)
13. Drew Brees, QB, Saints (Average: 14.0, High: 11, Low: 17)
14. Brian Westbrook, RB, Eagles (Average: 14.6, High: 7, Low: 21)
15. Marion Barber, RB, Cowboys (Average: 15.4, High: 10, Low: 20)
16. Randy Moss, WR, Patriots (Average: 16.0, High: 15, Low: 17)
17. Brandon Jacobs, RB, Giants (Average: 16.2, High: 12, Low: 23)
18. Clinton Portis, RB, Redskins (Average: 17.0, High: 14, Low: 20)
19. Calvin Johnson, WR, Lions (Average: 17.0, High: 14, Low: 21)
20. Tom Brady, QB, Patriots (Average: 19.4, High: 16, Low: 24)

Full Top 150 Consensus Rankings here.

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

Chiefs sign Amani Toomer to one-year deal

The Kansas City Chiefs have signed free-agent receiver Amani Toomer to a one-year contract, according to the Associated Press.

Toomer was one of three free agents to work out for the Chiefs yesterday. They also worked out D.J. Hackett and David Terrell.

"I definitely thought I was going to play, I kept working out like I was going to play," Toomer said Tuesday after his first practice with his new team. "It bothered me ego-wise, but I kept going, kept doing my thing and I'm here now."

With a lot of young receivers on the Chiefs roster, Toomer should provide veteran leadership to the receiving corps.

Toomer, who was the Giants second-round pick in 1996, played all 13 seasons of his career with the New York Giants. Toomer needs just 503 receiving yards to reach the 10,000 yards for his career.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 10:16 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Chiefs, Cassel agree on 6-year, $63 million deal

The Kansas City Chiefs and quarterback Matt Cassel have agreed to a six-year contract worth $63 million, according to John Clayton of ESPN.

Per Clayton, Cassel will earn $40.5 million over the first three years of the contract and is guaranteed $28 million over the life of the contract. Before the new deal, Cassel would have earned $14.561 million this year.

So, in other words, Cassel will receive less than $14 million in extra guaranteed money over the extra five years of his deal.

Cassel, who was designated with the franchise tag by the New England Patriots, was traded to Kansas City along with Mike Vrabel for a second-round pick (34th overall). The Patriots used that pick to select Oregon safety Patrick Chung.

Chiefs GM Scott Pioli drafted Cassel, who never started a college game, in the seventh round in the 2006 NFL Draft. Last season, Cassel started 15 games for the Patriots after Tom Brady, who won the 2007 NFL MVP award, suffered a season-ending knee injury in the first game of the season against the Chiefs.

Last year, Cassel threw for 3,693 yards and 21 touchdowns. And he got better as the season progressed. In the final month of the season, Cassel had a QB rating of 102.7 and threw eight touchdowns to only one interception.

Is Cassel worth the money after emerging from obscurity last year? That's debatable, but I do know this.

Cassel will earn $15 million less over six years than the Lions will pay rookie Matthew Stafford, this year's top overall pick. Granted the rookie pay-scale is out of whack and Stafford has greater upside, but Cassel has already showed that he can produce at this level.

Of all teams in the league, the Chiefs are as well-suited as any other team to make this type of commitment. Pioli drafted him, saw him practice for a few years and then produce last season. Plus, the Chiefs have had the opportunity to see him throughout their off-season workouts and mini-camp.

In other words, if anyone knows whether Cassel is worth it, it's Pioli.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 07:12 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

One more foot out the door for LJ?

The Kansas City Chiefs drafted running back Javarris Williams in the seventh round yesterday. Kent Babb of the Kansas City Star points out that drafting a power back similar to Larry Johnson may mean that LJ is one step closer to being released.

Williams, who played for Tennessee State, finished as the school's second all-time leading rusher (4,329 yards).

The Chiefs have already won a grievance against Johnson saying the Chiefs won't have to pay Johnson $3.75 million in guaranteed money in 2009 and 2010 if they release him. If they don't release him, he will earn $4.55 million in 2009.

In the past two seasons, LJ has played only 20 games due to injuries and suspensions.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 07:42 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

And with the third-overall pick...

The Kansas City Chiefs have selected Tyson Jackson, DE from LSU.

Jackson, who was slotted at 12 in my mock draft to Denver, is a player that moved up quickly in the past day or so.

The Chiefs may have reached, but he feels a need. Jackson is someone that has been compared to Richard Seymour, who was Chiefs GM Scott Pioli's first pick with the New England Patriots.

Seattle is on the clock. See all 2009 NFL Draft Picks.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 04:25 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Thigpen "not ok" with demotion to second string

Kansas City Chiefs QB Tyler Thigpen, who started 11 games in 2008, hopes to get a chance to start in 2009. However, the Chiefs traded for Matt Cassel, who was franchised by the Patriots and will earn $14 million this season.

During this weekend's mini-camp, Cassel ran the first-team offense and Thigpen led the second-team offense.

“It’s life,” Thigpen said Sunday. “Everything happens for a reason. You may not see the reason right now, but I know there’s a reason that they brought a guy in like Matt.

“I’m behind him, and all I’m doing is pushing him, making him better. Hopefully me doing that is going to make this team better.”

Last year, Thigpen threw for 18 touchdowns and 12 interceptions. Barring an injury or sophomoric slump beyond imagination, Thigpen's sole responsibility in 2009 will be maintaining the clipboard.

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

LJ to participate at Chiefs' mini-camp

Kansas City Chiefs RB Larry Johnson has been participating in the team's off-season workout program. Now, he will participate in the team's three-day voluntary mini-camp that begins today (Friday).

Johnson, who previously expressed his desire to leave KC, must realize that he has little value to other teams. As we've seen with the LaDainian Tomlinson situation in San Diego, teams don't like to pay a lot for running backs, especially ones that are fast approaching 30 years old.

LJ turns 30 on November 19th. However, he won't be able to celebrate it in a KC club past 9 p.m. since he's on probation for the next two years following a pair of nightclub incidents.

Before Johnson lost a grievance hearing against the team, it was speculated that the Chiefs would release Johnson if they had won. Since they still haven't released him, his agent (Peter Schaffer) believes the Chiefs are interested in keeping him.

"If it was a foregone conclusion that the Chiefs would cut Larry I don't think he'd be going to the minicamp," Schaffer said. "We're planning on moving on. That's why Larry is with the team."

Whether or not the Chiefs release Johnson this off-season, there is no chance that he remains with the team until his contract expires (2012).

Barring a miraculous turnaround a la Miami or Atlanta last year, there won't be much excitement in Kansas City. So if LJ stays in KC, I'm setting the over/under for LJ-Todd Haley sideline confrontations to make ESPN's SportsCenter at 5 1/2.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 06:44 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Falcons interested in Tony Gonzalez?

The top tight end for the Atlanta Falcons, who surprised many by earning a playoff berth, averaged less than one reception per game in 2008.

The Kansas City Chiefs, who finished with a dismal 2-14 record, have the NFL's all-time leader in receptions among tight ends and he averaged six receptions per game in 2008.

Per Michael Lombardi of the National Football Post, the Falcons are "seriously considering" offering their second-round pick (number 55 overall) to the Chiefs for Tony Gonzalez, who has expressed his lack of interest in being part of a rebuilding effort.

Gonzalez, the Chiefs' first-round pick in 1997, has 916 receptions, 10,940 receiving yards and 76 touchdowns in his career. However, the Chiefs are 0-3 in playoff appearances during that span.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 07:58 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Chiefs sign Zach Thomas

Per Adam Teicher of The Kansas City Star, the Chiefs have signed linebacker Zach Thomas. The terms of the deal weren't mentioned, but he is likely to have signed for the league minimum.

The Chiefs have been awful for the past two years. There are two ways to change the culture of losing - a youth movement and/or adding veteran leadership.

Last year, the Chiefs had 12 overall draft picks and had a solid draft.

Although Thomas is closer to 40 than to 30, he brings veteran leadership to a team that has a lot of whiners - Larry Johnson, Brian Waters, etc.

He is likely to start this year as one of the ILB positions. Mike Vrabel, who came to KC as part of the Matt Cassel deal, and Derrick Johnson are also expected to start.

The Chiefs, who hold the third overall pick in this year's draft, will likely select Aaron Curry of Wake Forest, who many believe is the safest pick in this year's draft.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 07:22 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Chiefs win grievance against Larry Johnson

The Kansas City Chiefs won their grievance hearing against RB Larry Johnson. By winning, the Chiefs won't have to pay Johnson $3.75 million in guaranteed money in 2009 and 2010.

“We disagree with that portion of the ruling,’’ said Richard Berthelesen, the general counsel for the NFL Players Association. “But we have not yet decided as to what we’re going to do by way of appeal.’’

Johnson has 30 days to file an appeal.

However, the arbitrator also ruled that Johnson may keep one quarter of the 2008 portion of his signing bonus ($521,000).

Johnson received two years of probation for two separate nightclub incidents. During the season, he was suspended by the NFL for a game for his actions.

With a new GM (Scott Pioli) and head coach (Todd Haley) in control, Johnson, who has said that he wants out of KC, will likely be released now that the Chiefs won't have to pay him if they cut him.

If LJ plays for the Chiefs in 2009, however, he will receive his salary of $4.55 million.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 09:03 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Larry Johnson gets 2 years probation, has grievance hearing

Kansas City Chiefs RB Larry Johnson was sentenced to two years of probation as a result of two separate nightclub incidents involving women.

In both cases, Johnson, who wants out of Kansas City, faced charges of assualt, which were reduced to disturbing the peace.

If Johnson doesn't violate his probation, the guilty plea will be removed from his record. In order to satisfy the terms of his probation, LJ cannot consume alcohol or be present in any Kansas City bars or nightclubs after 9 p.m.

The first incident involved Johnson shoving a woman in the head. In the second incident, Johnson was accused of spitting a drink in the face of a different woman. After the second incident, Johnson was suspended for one game by the NFL.

Per Adam Teicher of the Kansas City Star, the Chiefs and LJ have a grievance hearing set for Wednesday in a dispute over $3.75 million of guaranteed money.

The Chiefs say that LJ's one-game suspension last year is a breach of his contract and they don't have to pay him the $3.5 million payment this year and $250,000 payment next year.

LJ's agent says that he will participate in the Chiefs' off-season workout program, which begins Monday. However, his participation may be short-lived.

According to the Kansas City Star, the Chiefs will likely release Johnson if they win the grievance hearing.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 12:43 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Tony Gonzalez still wants a trade?

Kansas City Chiefs owner Clark Hunt said that the team was not going to trade its future Hall of Fame TE Tony Gonzalez. But a source told AP, via National Football Post, that Hunt's statement surprised Gonzalez.

“If the right deal can be made, Tony very much wants the Chiefs to trade him,” the person said. “Tony is not demanding a trade. Tony cherishes the time he’s spent with the Chiefs and he loves the way he’s always been treated by the fans there. But he knows of some other teams that would be interested in him and if the right deal can be made, he wants it to be made.”

Gonzalez, who is a 13-year veteran, led the Chiefs in receptions (96) and receiving yards (1058) in 2008.

For his career, he has 916 receptions and 10940 yards. His 916 receptions ranks ninth all-time and first among tight ends in NFL history.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 08:13 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Chiefs release David Macklin

Today the Kansas City Chiefs released cornerback David Macklin, who played four games for the Chiefs in 2008 after signing with the team mid-season.

Last week, Macklin was arrested on DUI charges in Newport News, VA after he was pulled over for illegal window tint on his BMW.

While Macklin was not expected to make the team considering the team's depth at the cornerback position, the DUI charges have sped up the decision-making process.

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

Chiefs sign Engram, Biesel and Cooper

The Kansas City Chiefs have signed WRs Bobby Engram and Terrance Cooper as well as LB Monty Beisel today.

Engram, who missed the first quarter of the season due to injury, had 47 receptions for 489 yards. In 2007, Engram had 94 receptions for 1147 yards and 6 TDs.

“I’m going into my 14th year, and I want a Super Bowl,” Engram said. “I just want to prove to my new teammates and my new coaches and everybody that I can still play and make plays. I’m coming in for one goal, and that’s to help the Chiefs win games. We’ll see where it goes from there.”

If Engram "wants a Super Bowl," why KC? Granted, the Chiefs have upgraded their GM, head coach and QB positions. But they are still a couple of years away.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 10:03 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Clancy Pendergast to run Chiefs' defense

The Kansas City Chiefs have hired Clancy Pendergast to run their defense. Pendergast, who was fired last month by Arizona, spent the past five years as defensive coordinator of the Cardinals.

"Clancy was instrumental in the Arizona Cardinals run at the end of last season that led to our appearance in the Super Bowl," [new Chiefs head coach Todd] Haley said. "The fact that we have experience working together along with Clancy's previous experience working with Gary Gibbs will be a big factor in our continuity as we move forward."

Haley coached the Cardinals offense for the past two seasons. Gibbs is the Chiefs' LB coach and worked with Pendergast when he was with the Dallas Cowboys.

Before coaching with the Cardinals, Pendergast coached with the Houston Oilers, Dallas Cowboys and Cleveland Browns.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 09:46 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

David Macklin arrested for DUI

Kansas City Chiefs CB David Macklin was arrested early this morning in Newport News, VA on DUI charges. He was initially pulled over for illegal window tint on his BMW, but the officer “detected the smell of alcohol and noticed the driver to be impaired."

Maclin's blood-alcohol level was .11, which is over the Virginia legal limit of .08.

Appearing in four games with the Chiefs, Maclin didn't have any tackles in 2008. He has played in the NFL for 10 seasons for Indianapolis, Arizona, Washington, St. Louis and Kansas City.

If I were a betting man, I would bet that Macklin will be searching for a new employer very soon.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 06:53 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Matt Cassel traded to Chiefs

The NFL Network is reporting that the Patriots and Chiefs have agreed on a trade to send QB Matt Cassel, who was franchised by the New England, to Kansas City.

The compensation that the Pats will receive hasn't been communicated, but Adam Schefter of NFL Network speculates that it might be a 2nd-rounder this year and a conditional pick next year.

This confirms that Tom Brady is indeed on track (or ahead of schedule) on his rehab. Otherwise, the Pats wouldn't have pulled the trigger this soon. However, the Pats will likely seek a veteran QB to back up Brady.

Also, many were projecting that the Chiefs would select a QB with the #3 overall pick. Now they can focus on a different position like offensive tackle, this year's draft is deep in tackles, or draft someone like Aaron Curry if the Lions or Rams don't draft him.

The Chiefs brought in Mike Vrabel yesterday so now they import leaders on both sides of the ball from the Patriots system to provide leadership.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 12:59 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Chiefs trade for Mike Vrabel

The New England Patriots traded LB Mike Vrabel to the Kansas City Chiefs. In return, the Patriots will receive an undisclosed draft pick.

Vrabel spent the past 8 years of his 12 NFL seasons with the Patriots. He played his first 4 years with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Chiefs GM Scott Pioli joined the Patriots the year before Vrabel did.

Vrabel had a drop-off in production from 2007, his only Pro Bowl season, to 2008. However, he's still a solid player despite his age (33). Vrabel had 12.5 sacks in 2007, but only 4 sacks along with 62 tackles last year.

This move gives Pioli and the Chiefs some veteran leadership from the Patriots way of doing things. The Chiefs are notorious for their collection of whiners in the locker room including some of their most talented players - Larry Johnson, Tony Gonzalez, Brian Waters, etc.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 05:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Brian Waters wants out of KC

Per Jason Whitlock of the Kansas City Star, All-Pro guard Brian Waters wants to either be traded or released.

Waters, who flew into KC with the intention to meet with the new leadership, was upset that GM Scott Pioli wouldn't meet with him because Pioli felt they had "nothing to discuss." In his conversation with new coach Todd Haley, Haley said that "22 players off the street" could have won as many games (2) as the Chiefs did.

Haley told Waters that he wouldn't release him.

Having signed a 7-year contract extension in 2005, Waters options are fairly limited and straightforward. He can play for the Chiefs in 2009. Or he can play for the Chiefs in 2009. That is, if he doesn't want to retire.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 03:01 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Chiefs make several cuts

The Kansas City Chiefs have parted ways with several players today. Early in the day, they cut CB Patrick Surtain, who was due a $7 million base salary. He would have counted $6.184 million towards the cap this year.

They also cut LB Donnie Edwards, who was due to earn a $5 million base salary in 2009. He would have counted $4.5 million toward the Chiefs' cap number.

The Chiefs also cut QB Damon Huard, who will turn 36 in July. Tyler Thigpen threw 420 of the team's 541 passes in 2008. Thigpen threw for 2608 yards, 18 TDs and 12 INTs. The Chiefs also used a 3rd-round pick in 2006 to draft QB Bradie Croyle from Alabama and many project the Chiefs to take QB Mark Sanchez from USC with the #3 overall pick in this year's draft.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 09:33 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Tony Gonzalez o.k. with staying in K.C.?

Chiefs TE Tony Gonzalez has said he wasn't interested in re-building. But in a sideline interview during yesterday's Pro Bowl, Gonzalez said he has spoken with GM Scott Pioli to let him know that he doesn't want to be traded.

“There is no doubt in my mind that Scott Pioli is going to come in there and do an amazing job and so is Todd Haley, the new head coach. But I’m going into year 13. I want to play maybe two more years, and that’s maybe.

“I’m not saying the Chiefs can’t do that [win a Super Bowl]. They will eventually turn that corner; it’s how soon can they do that. Once free-agency comes, and they’re wheeling and dealing, and they’re making trades, and it looks good, then I have no problem staying with the Chiefs.”

In a league of parity, swapping locales for what may be an opportunity to win a Super Bowl can be tricky. Just ask Jason Taylor and Zach Thomas, who both left the Dolphins for the supposed better opportunity to win in Washington and Dallas, respectively.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 08:51 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Todd Haley to be next Chiefs head coach

According to FOXSports.com's Jay Glazer, Todd Haley will be the next head coach of the Kansas City Chiefs.

It was believed that he was the top candidate for the job and that GM Scott Pioli was waiting for him after he fired Herm Edwards.

Haley led the Cardinals to their highest and third-highest scoring totals in his 2 seasons as offensive coordinator. But he is probably more known for his fiery personality and the sideline confrontation he had with Anquan Boldin.

If LJ wanted out before, he really wants out now that there a no non-sense guy in charge.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 12:38 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Chiefs receive permission to interview Todd Haley

The Kansas City Chiefs have a new general manager and no head coach two weeks after Herm Edwards was fired. But the Chiefs have received permission to talk to Todd Haley, offensive coordinator for the Super Bowl-losing Arizona Cardinals.

There was a lot of speculation that Chiefs GM Scott Pioli was waiting for Todd Haley. While Haley is considered the favorite for the job, others are in the discussion like Kirk Ferentz of Iowa.

Chiefs TE Tony Gonzalez, who is 32 and hasn't won a Super Bowl, isn't interested in rebuilding.

“I want to see who they name as head coach,” Gonzalez said. “Yeah, I hear they’re talking to Todd Haley, but then there’s this coach [Ferentz] from Iowa State, some [expletive] like that and I don’t want to deal with that. It seems like we’re rebuilding anyway, and I don’t want to do that. I don’t know that I want to do that any more than I already have been.”

Haley and Chiefs GM Scott Pioli have worked together with the New York Jets from '97-'99. Haley was the WR coach and Pioli was the director of pro personnel. The two men haven't worked together since then.

Dick Haley, Todd's father, is a scout for the Miami Dolphins, where Bill Parcells is the Executive VP of Football Operations. Todd has also coached under Parcells as the Cowboys WR coach before joining the Arizona Cardinals. Parcells is Scott Pioli's father-in-law.

In Haley's 2 seasons as offensive coordinator, the Cardinals scored the most points (427 this year) and 3rd-most (404 last year) in franchise history. The Chiefs' offense struggled finishing 26th in the NFL in scoring (18.2 ppg) and 24th in total offense (308.7 ypg).

On 610 AM radio this morning, Chiefs RB Larry Johnson reiterated that he wants out of KC. And as we have seen from the heated discussion on the sidelines with Anquan Boldin, Todd Haley, if he becomes the Chiefs' next coach, definitely won't take any of LJ's crap.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 06:55 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

2010 Super Bowl odds

The Pittsburgh Steelers won Super Bowl XLIII last night. Enjoy it. Ok...stop. Vegas is already looking ahead to 2009-2010.

Sportsbook.com has odds for Super Bowl XLIV in Miami on February 7, 2010 on its website.

Who's the favorite?

The Patriots have 8-1 odds.

Here are the rest:

10-1: Steelers, Cowboys, Giants, Colts
12-1: Ravens, Titans, Panthers, Eagles, Chargers
25-1: Packers, Saints, Vikings
30-1: Jaguars, Jets, Cardinals, Bucs, Falcons, Broncos
40-1: Bears, Texans, Bills, Redskins, Dolphins
50-1: Seahawks
60-1: Browns, Bengals, 49ers
100-1: Chiefs, Raiders, Rams, Lions

See past Super Bowl winners.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 06:51 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

2009 Hall of Fame inductees

The 2009 inductees into the Pro Football Hall of Fame were announced today. They are Bob Hayes, Randall McDaniel, Bruce Smith, Derrick Thomas, Ralph Wilson, and Rod Woodson.

This was the first ballot for Rod Woodson and Bruce Smith.

Here are some quotes from today's announcement ceremony:

"Just thinking about my father and all the sacrifices he and my mother made when I was a child growing up to be a man," Smith added, tearfully. "How he wanted me to have a life better than he had. I just wish he was here. He would be extremely proud of this day."

"It's a great honor, a great feat," said Woodson. "I'm still pinching myself a little bit, thinking it's surreal."

"Derrick Thomas was the cornerstone of the modern era of the Kansas City Chiefs and one of the most feared performers of his era," Chiefs owner Clark Hunt said. "Every head coach and offensive coordinator who faced the Chiefs during the 1990s knew when they came to Arrowhead Stadium they had to account for Derrick Thomas."

"Randall was a beast," Smith said. "Once he locked on to you, you couldn't go anywhere."

In a statement, Cowboys owner Jerry Jones said, "This is a deserving honor for one of the Cowboys' most and truly gifted stars. We all know he changed the game on the field, but he also brought a unique star quality to the NFL that helped make professional football the most popular sport in the world."

The finalists that weren't inducted are: Cris Carter, Dermontti Dawson, Richard Dent, Russ Grimm, Claude Humphrey, Cortez Kennedy, Bob Kuechenberg, John Randle, Andre Reed, Shannon Sharpe and Paul Tagliabue.

The 2009 class will be enshrined in Canton, OH on August 8th. See past Hall of Fame classes.

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

Most money for free agency

Looking at teams with the most money to spend in the off-season, the top 4 teams are either (a) in the Super Bowl or (b) have a new coach and/or new GM.

3 of the bottom 5 teams will have new coaches as well provided Al Davis doesn't remove the "interim" from Tom Cable's title.

Here are the top 5:

1. Tampa Bay Buccaneers ($42 million)
2. Arizona Cardinals ($41 million)
3. Denver Broncos ($34 million)
4. Kansas City Chiefs ($33 million)
5. Tennessee Titans ($31 million)

Here are the bottom 5:

28. Oakland Raiders ($4 million)
29. Indianapolis Colts (-$2 million)
30. Washington Redskins (-$3 million)
31. New Orleans Saints (-$5 million)
32. New York Jets (-$7 million)

Click here to see salary cap flexibility for all teams.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 06:21 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Chiefs fire Herm Edwards

When the Kansas City Chiefs hired Scott Pioli as their general manager, most expected the Chiefs would fire coach Herm Edwards. Today was the day that Herm Edwards was fired.

Edwards, who led the Chiefs to the playoffs in his first season (2006), compiled a 6-26 record in the past 2 seasons.

"After careful deliberation over the last week, Scott and I decided that it was in the best interests of the Chiefs to move forward in a different direction," team chairman Clark Hunt said in a statement released by the team. "This was not an easy decision. Herm is an outstanding football coach and a man of integrity. We appreciate his leadership over the past three seasons, and we wish him all the best in the future."

Some are speculating that Mike Shanahan, who was fired by the Broncos, will be the next coach in Kansas City.

NFL Network's Adam Shefter says "Shanahan will not be the coach of the Chiefs in 2009." There has also been speculation about Todd Haley, Arizona Cardinals offensive coordinator, being the next coach.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 07:04 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Are the Chiefs waiting for Todd Haley?

New Kansas City Chiefs general manager Scott Pioli said that he hasn't ruled out Herm Edwards remaining as head coach.

"Contrary to reports that were out there, we're going to spend some time talking about Herm," said Pioli. "I'm actually looking forward to it."

But that was a week ago and Edwards wasn't sent to the Senior Bowl this week. One would expect that if the Chiefs were going to retain Edwards' services, he would be attending the Senior Bowl activities to scout the players.

Yesterday, Chiefs defensive coordinator, Gunther Cunningham, departed for the same job with the Detroit Lions under new coach Jim Schwartz.

NBC Sports Chris Collingsworth speculates that Arizona offensive coordinator will "be the coach in Kansas City.”

“I’m watching what’s happening with all the (new) coaches, and we’ve seen some of the defensive coaches come off the board, and the one guy nobody is talking about that has surprised me, and it’s because (the Cardinals) flew so far under the radar screen, was Haley. He’s not under the radar screen anymore.

“The biggest winner who has come out of this run by the Arizona Cardinals has been Todd Haley.”

The Cardinals, in their first-ever Super Bowl, are playing the Steelers, who are looking for their record-breaking 6th Super Bowl win. (See past Super Bowl results.)

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

Chiefs hire Scott Pioli

Today the Kansas City Chiefs announced that they have hired Scott Pioli, who was the Patriots VP of player personnel.

"We are very excited to welcome Scott to the Chiefs," team chairman Clark Hunt said. "With his proven track record of success, Scott is the finest player personnel executive in the NFL, and we look forward to his leadership in building a championship organization."

In his 9 seasons with the Patriots, they have won 3 Super Bowls in 4 appearances. (See past Super Bowl results.)

Pioli's job to turnaround the Chiefs got started a year before arriving. Carl Peterson, who resigned a month ago, had a good draft in 2008. Arguably, they had the best draft of any team. (See Chiefs draft history.)

Pioli and the Chiefs have the 3rd overall pick, but his first pick is likely to be a new coach. Chances are that Pioli, as most new front office guys, will want to bring in his own guy.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 07:53 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Larry Johnson wants out of KC

Larry Johnson has missed 12 games in the past 2 seasons for the Kansas City Chiefs. Most of the missed games were due to injury, but some were due to suspension or discipline like for spitting his drink on a woman in a nightclub.

Now LJ wants to miss all of the Chiefs games.

"It has everything to do with the environment," Johnson said. "The city is tired of me, and the organization and I have run our course together. It's time to move on for me. There could be 100 changes. It's time for me to go."

Johnson didn't play much his rookie season. But in years 2-4, LJ had 46 rushing TDs in 42 games. In the past 2 seasons, he's sniffed the endzone 8 times in 19 games.

With a decline in his production and his durability combined with his continued off-the-field issues and malcontent, I would say "good riddens" if I were in charge in KC.

Of course, considering all of those, who'd be willing to give something fair in return for him? And whoever it is, I have a bridge in Brooklyn I'd like to sell him.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 09:54 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Week 17 playoff scenarios

I can't recall an NFL season in recent memory with so many important matchups to decide entry into the post-season party like we have had last week and this week. Then again, I can't remember what I did 2 hours ago.

In any event, let's take a look at the current playoff picture. For simplicity sake, we ignore the possibility of a second tie this season.

Teams fall into 4 categories - playoff bound/seed locked, playoff bound/seed TBD, on playoff bubble and eliminated.

AFC Teams:

Playoff bound/seed locked:
Tennessee Titans (1), Pittsburgh Steelers (2), Indianapolis Colts (5)

Playoff bound/seed TBD:
none

On playoff bubble:
Miami Dolphins: Win AFC East and clinch 3 seed with win over Jets. A Dolphins' loss eliminates them from the playoffs.

New England Patriots: Win AFC East and clinch 3 seed with win over Bills and Jets win over Dolphins. Bill Belichick stopped short of saying he'd root for the Jets, but that's what he will be doing. If the Dolphins and Pats win, the Pats will get the 6 seed with a Ravens' loss.

New York Jets: Win AFC East and clinch 3 seed with win over Dolphins and Pats' loss to Buffalo. Loss to Dolphins eliminates Jets' hopes. If the Jets and Pats win, the Jets will get the 6 seed if the Ravens lose.

Baltimore Ravens: Clinch 6 seed with a win over Jaguars or a Patriots loss to Buffalo and a Jets loss to Dolphins.

Denver Broncos: Win AFC West and clinch 4 seed with win over Chargers. Loss eliminates Broncos.

San Diego Chargers: same as Denver Broncos.

Eliminated:
Buffalo Bills, Cincinnati Bengals, Cleveland Browns, Houston Texans, Jacksonville Jaguars, Kansas City Chiefs, Oakland Raiders

Continue reading "Week 17 playoff scenarios" »

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 12:22 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

AFC Playoff Picture

With 2 weeks to go, the AFC and NFC playoff races are interesting. We will take a team-by-team look at both conferences starting with the AFC. Here are current playoff seedings:

1. Tennessee Titans (12-2)
2. Pittsburgh Steelers (11-3)
3. New York Jets (9-5)
4. Denver Broncos (8-6)
5. Indianapolis Colts (10-4)
6. Baltimore Ravens (9-5)

AFC East:

New York Jets (9-5): The Jets win the division if they win out (at Seattle and vs Miami). Otherwise, they are 1 of 4 teams fighting for the 6th spot as the Colts are 10-4.

Miami Dolphins (9-5): The Dolphins win the division if they win out (at Kansas City and at NY Jets). Otherwise, they are 1 of 4 teams fighting for the 6th spot as the Colts are 10-4.

New England Patriots (9-5): The Patriots win the division if they win out (vs Arizona and at Buffalo) and the Dolphins and Jets both lose at least 1 game. Otherwise, they are 1 of 4 teams fighting for the 6th spot as the Colts are 10-4.

Buffalo Bills (6-8): Eliminated.

Continue reading "AFC Playoff Picture" »

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

A look at the AFC playoff picture

With a month remaining on the NFL schedule, it's do-or-die time for several AFC teams. For others, this month will be an opportunity to jockey for playoff positioning.

Here are the current AFC standings:

1. Tennessee Titans (11-1)
2. Pittsbugh Steelers (9-3)
3. New York Jets (8-4)
4. Denver Broncos (7-5)
5. Indianapolis Colts (8-4)
6. Baltimore Ravens (8-4)

Let's take a look at every AFC team by division. Team records are in parenthesis.

AFC East:

New York Jets (8-4): The Jets would have the 3 seed if the season ended today, but play in the tightest division and just lost to the team that would be the 4 seed. The Jets have an easy (relative to Steelers, Dolphins and Pats) remaining schedule with road games in San Francisco and Seattle and home games against Buffalo and Miami.

New England Patriots (7-5): The Patriots have suffered season-ending injuries to Adalius Thomas, Rodney Harrison, Laurence Maroney and, of course, Tom Brady. Matt Cassel has filled in admirably and has essentially written himself a huge lottery ticket as he enters free agency in the off-season. The Pats play 3 of their remaining 4 on the road. If they make the playoffs, it's most likely as the #6 seed.

Miami Dolphins (7-5): The 'Fins trail the Colts and Ravens by 1 game and are tied with the Patriots in the playoff race. What a turnaround for a team that finished 1-15, has a first-year coach (Tony Sparano) and lost their best player (Jason Taylor). Like the Pats, they finish up with 3 of 4 road games.

Buffalo Bills (6-6): Despite their strong 5-1 start, the Bills will need a miracle to make Donte Whitner's playoff guarantee come true. However, history hasn't been kind to this franchise when it comes to miracles.

Continue reading "A look at the AFC playoff picture" »

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 03:09 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Kolby Smith out for year

Kolby Smith is done for the season. And LJ is suspended for the week 10 game vs San Diego.

Looks like Jamaal Charles will have plenty of opportunities to have a solid fantasy football day. Considering the Chiefs are 1-7 and in last place in the AFC West, there isn't much to look forward to in Kansas City except for fantasy football.

On the season, Charles is averaging 5.7 ypc and had his 100-yard rushing game of his career last week vs Tampa Bay.

The Chargers have been run-of-the-mill vs the run this season giving up 106.5 ypg, 4.0 ypc and 6 TDs.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 07:45 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Larry Johnson suspended 1 game by NFL

Larry Johnson is suspended for next week's game at San Diego. Does it really matter to anyone other than Larry Johnson himself? LJ stands to lose $147,000 (or a game check).

"We respect the decision of commissioner Goodell," said Carl Peterson, president of the Kansas City Chiefs. "The NFL player conduct policy sets forth a set of standards that all NFL players, coaches and staff members must abide by. Upon the completion of his suspension we sincerely hope that Larry will be ready to return to the field for the Chiefs determined to make a positive contribution to our team and, with the assistance of the people around him, turn his life around."

Really? "Ready to return?" "Make a positive contribution?"

He hasn't played since week 5 when he carried the ball for 2 yards on 7 carries in a 34-0 loss to the Panthers.

While he's suspended, he will need to search for a new agent.

"I did, indeed, decide to resign as Larry agent's this past Monday," Keels said in a statement. "I don't want to get into the specifics of why. But I think it's in the best interest for me and Larry to go our separate ways. I am fully confident Larry will rise above all of the adversity and get his career back on the track. I wish him the best in all of his career endeavors."

LJ has a court date on December 4th for an incident where he "pushed a women's face." Maybe Jerry Seinfeld can represent LJ, who "allegedly" spit his drink on a woman on Oct. 10th, they way he argued Keith Hernandez's case.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 01:17 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Tough day for Grandmama

Good news: Larry Johnson has 200 rushing yards in the Chiefs past 2 games.

Bad news: Only 1% of those yards came in today's game at Carolina. LJ had 2 yards on 7 carries. He ummm...broke one for 4 yards (his long of the day). Excluding the 4-yard run, he had 6 carries for -2 yards.

The not-as-bad news: Larry Johnson wasn't injured. When I saw the stat tracker never update LJ's point total for my opponent's team in fantasy football, I assumed he was injured. Nope. Instead, he just really stunk it up. Yippee!

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 08:21 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

AFC West Preview

SAN DIEGO CHARGERS
Prediction: 14-2 | Team Home | Team Forum | Team Schedule

Overview: The good news: the Chargers have won 46 games over the past 4 seasons and only 2 teams have won more. The bad news: both of those teams (New England and Indianapolis) are also in the AFC. Most would say that the best team in the NFL is one of those 3 teams. The Chargers are head and shoulders above the rest of this division, but their goal isn't to simply win the AFC West again. In order to win the Super Bowl, they will need to stay healthy. Shawne Merriman is playing with ligament tears in his knee. One blow could end his season. LT has been durable in the regular season (missed 1 - a meaningless week 17 - game in his career), but much was made of LT being on the sidelines last post-season. Philip Rivers showed his toughness, but he needs to continue progressing. Antonio Gates has been battling injuries last year and early this season. If (a big if) they all stay healthy, I think the Chargers are the most balanced team in the AFC. The question is will they?

Interesting Stat/Fact: 2 - # of torn ligaments in Shawne Merriman's knee. Merriman opted to play with the injuries against doctor's wishes.

Strength of Schedule: 2007 opponents were 108-148 (.422)

2007 Playoff Teams on Schedule (4): vs New England, at Pittsburgh, vs Indianapolis, at Tampa Bay

# of Wins Past 3 Years: 34 wins (11.3 per season)

DENVER BRONCOS
Prediction: 9-7 | Team Home | Team Forum | Team Schedule

Overview: Last year, the Denver Broncos had their only losing season of the decade. As usual, the Broncos were still a solid offensive rushing team. However, the problem lies in the transformation seen in their ability (or lack thereof) to stop the run. From 2001 to 2005, the Broncos finished as high as 2nd against the run but no worse than 7th in that span. However, they finished 12th and 30th in 2006 and 2007, respectively. Provided the Broncos can turn around their run defense, they should bounce back in 2008. I expect a huge year from Jay Cutler, now that he's begun treating his diabetes. He found out in the off-season that was why he lost weight and strength during the regular season. The Broncos will contend for a wildcard spot in 2008 but there is still a considerable gap between the Broncos and the Chargers.

Interesting Stat/Fact: Selvin Young's goal for 2007 is 2,000 rushing yards.

Strength of Schedule: 2007 opponents were 114-142 (.445)

2007 Playoff Teams on Schedule (5): vs San Diego, vs Tampa Bay, vs Jacksonville, at New England, at San Diego

# of Wins Past 3 Years: 29 wins (9.7 per season)

OAKLAND RAIDERS
Prediction: 6-10 | Team Home | Team Forum | Team Schedule

Overview: Poor Lane Kiffin. He's done a good job as head coach of the disfunctional Raiders. Al Davis hasn't made it easy for him though. Davis has overpaid players like Tommy Kelly, Javon Walker and Gibril Wilson. In 2007, the Raiders were 1 of 6 teams to average at least 130 rushing yards/game. Aside from Minnesota, the other 4 teams all made the playoffs. To make the running attack stronger, the Raiders drafted the explosive Darren McFadden. He provides Lane Kiffin with plenty of versatility. The Raiders also added Deangelo Hall at CB and arguably have the best tandem of CBs in the NFL with Hall and Nnamdi Asomugha. However, will the Raiders be able to stop the run on defense and throw the ball on offense? They were 2nd to last in both last year. I expect a couple more wins for the Raiders in 2008, but there are a lot of changes necessary for this to become a playoff-caliber team.

Interesting Stat/Fact: After 3 consecutive 10-win seasons (2000-2002), the Raiders haven't won more than 5 games in any season (2003-2007).

Strength of Schedule: 2007 opponents were 112-144 (.438)

2007 Playoff Teams on Schedule (4): vs San Diego, at San Diego, vs New England, at Tampa Bay

# of Wins Past 3 Years: 10 wins (3.3 per season)

KANSAS CITY CHIEFS
Prediction: 4-12 | Team Home | Team Forum | Team Schedule

Overview: The good news: the Chiefs arguably had the best draft of any team in 2007. The bad news: they are very young and are sure to finish last in the AFC West. They also traded their best player (Jared Allen) to the Minnesota Vikings. Will they be able to get back to Chiefs football and re-establish a running game? Last year, they finished last in the NFL in rushing yards/game. That is surprising considering the Broncos and Raiders were 2 of the 4 worst defenses against the run in 2007 and they play them twice each year. But the Chiefs also have a bad rushing defense: 5th-worst last year. Dwayne Bowe had a great rookie season and should have another solid season. Although getting older, Tony Gonzalez is still one of the elite TEs in the league. But the Chiefs are still have a long road ahead of them.

Interesting Stat/Fact: The Chiefs offense, long known for their rushing attack, finished last in the NFL in rushing yards per game (78.0) in 2007.

Strength of Schedule: 2007 opponents were 116-140 (.453)

2007 Playoff Teams on Schedule (5): at New England, vs Tennessee, vs Tampa Bay, at San Diego, vs San Diego

# of Wins Past 3 Years: 23 wins (7.7 per season)

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 05:50 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

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