TheDailyBlitz.com: San Diego Chargers Archives

LT meets with Jets today after Vikings yesterday

Despite cutting one thirty-something running back this off-season, the New York Jets are now entertaining another.

Today the Jets, who cut Thomas Jones due to a large roster bonus he would have otherwise received, are hosting LaDainian Tomlinson, who met with the Vikings yesterday.

Tomlinson, who was released by the Chargers, hasn't been the same dominant running back he was earlier in his career during the past two disappointing seasons.

With the Vikings or the Jets, LT would serve as the back-up running back to either Adrian Peterson or Shonn Greene. His role with the Vikings, however, would be more defined since they lost Chester Taylor, who was their third-down back, to Chicago. Meanwhile, the Jets have Leon Washington to occupy that role.

The one thing that LT hasn't done in his Hall-of-Fame career is win a Super Bowl. Both the Vikings and the Jets were one game away losing to the Saints and Colts, respectively, in the conference championships.

Tomlinson ranks eighth all-time in rushing yards (12,490) and third in touchdowns (153) behind Jerry Rice and Emmitt Smith.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 01:42 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Cromartie to Jets for third-round pick in 2011

The San Diego Chargers were eager to move cornerback Antonio Cromartie. And they now have.

“I think it’s good for both parties,” said Chargers cornerback Quentin Jammer, via the San Diego Union-Tribune. “Cro got his wish, and the Chargers got their wish.”

In exchange for Cromartie, the Chargers will receive a third-round pick in the 2011 NFL Draft from the Jets, which could increase to a second-round pick depending on Cromartie's playing time.

As Rich Cimini of the NY Daily News points out, the Jets will get a bargain if they get the 2007 version of Cromartie, who intercepted ten passes that season.

Pairing the 2007 version of Cromartie with Darrelle Revis, who I believe is the league's best cornerback, would create the league's top cornerback tandem and provide the Jets' defense with even greater flexibility to be disruptive.

Or they could get the whining, matador-style tackling version that coincidentally wanted no part of Jets running back Shonn Greene in the AFC playoffs.

Last year, Cromartie, who was the Chargers' first-round pick in 2006, had only three interceptions and 33 tackles.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 02:07 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Is Antonio Cromartie headed to the Motor City?

According to the Twitter status of Kevin Acee of the San Diego Union Tribune (via Pro Football Talk), Chargers cornerback Antonio "... Cromartie could be a Lion soon. Regardless, Cro has almost certainly played his last game for Chargers."

The acquisition of Cromartie could come at a bargain-basement prices.

And Cromartie, who has one year remaining on his contract, would help the Lions' pass defense (despite a post-season reluctance to mix it up against the run).

But as Tom Kowalski of MLive.com points out, Lions' starting cornerbacks Anthony Henry and Phillip Buchanon were benched at points during the season due to lack of run support.

The Lions ranked last in the NFL in points allowed (30.9 per game), passing yards allowed (265.6 per game) and total yards allowed (392.1 per game) last season.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 06:42 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

LT released by the Chargers

It's official.

The player who's probably most associated with the franchise is no longer a San Diego Charger.

Today the Chargers released future first-ballot Hall-of-Famer LaDainian Tomlinson, who was due a $2 million roster bonus next month.

Many including team president Dean Spanos will always view LT as a Charger. “No matter where he chooses to continue his career, in my mind LT will always be a San Diego Charger. His legacy as one of the greatest running backs the game has ever seen will be as a Charger.”

One team that some have speculated as a landing spot for the native Texan is Houston. According to the Houston Chronicle, however, the Texans aren't interested in pursuing LT.

Tomlinson ranks second all-time in rushing touchdowns (138) and eighth all-time in rushing yards (12,490) in addition to owning or sharing 28 Charger team records.

Last year, LT finished with a career low in rushing attempts (223) and yards (730) as well as receptions (20) and receiving yards (154).

That said, he rushed for 11 touchdowns in the final ten games of the season and was a viable fantasy running back for the majority of the season.

Regardless of where he ends up in 2010, Tomlinson will likely be the second option in the backfield for the first time in his career.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 08:59 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

San Diego gives Turner an extension

The San Diego Chargers have signed coach Norv Turner to an extension through the 2013 season, according to Kevin Acee of the San Diego Union-Tribune.

“I’m extremely proud of the job Norv has done with this team,” team president Dean Spanos said (via the Union-Tribune). “In three seasons he’s led the team to three division titles. I’m confident that if we strengthen our roster and continue to provide Norv the assets he needs, this team will have continued success.”

During his three seasons as Chargers coach, Turner has a 32-16 record in the regular season and 3-3 in the post-season.

In 2009, the Chargers ranked fourth in scoring offense (28.4 points per game) and tenth in total offense (360.1 yards per game) and finished with a 13-3 record and the number two seed in the AFC.

During his three seasons as coach, the Chargers have ranked in the top five in offensive scoring every year.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 11:46 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Chargers clinch bye, Johnson needs 128 for 2000

In their Christmas night win over the Titans, the Chargers clinched a first-round bye and the second seed in the AFC. In the process, they eliminated the Titans, who were one of seven teams tied at 7-7, from playoff contention.

Both LaDainian Tomlinson and Darren Sproles rushed for two touchdowns each.

Although he still hasn't rushed for 100 yards in any game this season, LT now has 11 rushing touchdowns in his past nine games.

Meanwhile, Chris Johnson turned in his tenth straight 100+ yard performance as he rushed for 142 yards and is only 128 yards shy of 2,000. He trails Eric Dickerson's single-season rushing record by 233 yards.

While it seems unlikely that he'll break the record, Johnson's season high is 228 yards (11/1 vs Jacksonville).

Next week, the Titans face the Seahawks, who rank 13th in the NFL in rushing yards per game allowed (106.4 ypg).

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

The Weekly Blitz - Week 14

Each week I pick three NFL games against the spread (ATS). Here are my week 14 picks:

Chargers +3.5 (over Cowboys): With the obvious exception of the two unbeaten teams (Indianapolis and New Orleans), San Diego has the NFL's longest winning streak (7 games) in the NFL. The Chargers' offense is firing on all cylinders and is averaging 28.5 points per game (third-best in the NFL). During their seven-game winning streak, they have scored 30+ points five times and 20+ points in all seven games. And if you have to bet in a December game involving the Cowboys, which side would you want?

Falcons +10 (over Saints): I don't expect the Falcons to beat the Saints. However, as the Patriots did in their perfect regular-season two years ago, they played a lot of close games down the stretch. We are seeing that with the Saints lately. They needed overtime to beat the Redskins last week as four of their past six games have been decided by 10 points or less. Anything can happen in divisional matchups and giving double-digit points on the road is a little rich for my blood.

Eagles -1 (over Giants): The Giants got a much-needed victory over the Cowboys last week. With a 2-5 record in their past seven games, it would be premature to say that the Giants have turned things around. The Giants have allowed over 20 points in seven consecutive games and the Eagles get playmaker DeSean Jackson back this week. This season, the Giants are 1-6 ATS against opponents with a winning record.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 11:33 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Football: Week 14 RB Sit'em

With playoffs beginning this week, here are three running backs that I would consider benching for week 14:

LaDainian Tomlinson, Chargers (vs Cowboys): Tomlinson has seen a resurgence recently at least in terms of scoring touchdowns. In the past six weeks, he has rushed for eight touchdowns. This week, however, L.T. faces a Dallas defense that has been stingy against the run as they have allowed only five rushing TDs on the season. With a strong possibility of a scoreless day for L.T., it's not likely that you can rely on him accumulating a lot of rushing yards either.

Kevin Smith, Lions (vs Ravens): Smith had a decent game last week as he finished with a combined 104 rushing/receiving yards and a score. As the Lions face another tough run defense, it would be risky to rely on Smith. Smith has been productive in the passing game, but he has only two games with 20+ rushing attempts. And it's been seven weeks since the last 20-carry game.

Matt Forte, Bears (vs Packers): Forte made the Start'em list last week and he delivered with 91 rushing yards and a score. He has had only three games with more than 66 rushing yards and those three games came against Detroit, Cleveland and St. Louis. (Let's face it, you or I may be able to run for 100 yards against those defenses.) In week 14, Forte begins the murderers row of run defenses in fantasy playoffs against Green Bay, Minnesota and Baltimore.

For running backs to start for week 14, click here.

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

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 10:03 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)

Fantasy Football: RB Start'em for Week 13

For some, this is the do-or-die week in fantasy football as many leagues begin their playoffs in week 14. Fortunately for fantasy owners, there are plenty of favorable matchups for some second-tier running backs.

Here are five running backs that are starts for week 13:

Matt Forte, Bears (vs Rams): Since his bye in week five, this first-round draft pick has exceeded 41 rushing yards only once. However, Forte has been a contributor in the passing game as he ranks second in the NFL in receiving yards (433) among RBs. During typical fantasy football playoff weeks (14 to 16), Forte will face three elite run defenses (ranks): Green Bay (4th), Baltimore (6th) and Minnesota (2nd). In week 13, however, Forte faces St. Louis, who has allowed the most fantasy points to opposing running backs in the past three weeks.

Knowshon Moreno, Broncos (vs Chiefs): Moreno has rushed for 80+ yards in three consecutive weeks. In week 13, Moreno faces Kansas City, which has allowed the third-most fantasy points to opposing running backs over the past five weeks.

Rashard Mendenhall, Steelers (vs Raiders): Mendenhall has rushed for 400 yards against the first three AFC West opponents he's faced. The Raiders, this week's opponents, has allowed a league-high 17 rushing touchdowns in 11 games. And only the Bills and Browns have allowed more fantasy points to opposing running backs this season.

LaDainian Tomlinson, Chargers (vs Browns): While 28 running backs have rushed for more yards than LT, only six have rushed for more touchdowns. Tomlinson has rushed for seven of his eight TDs in the past five weeks. This week should be more of the same as he faces Cleveland, who has allowed the second-most fantasy points to opposing running backs this season.

Laurence Maroney, Patriots (vs Dolphins): Another RB that has had the nose for the endzone has been Maroney. Maroney has rushed for a score in six consecutive games and he has scored all eight of his touchdowns during that six-game span. In the last six games, Maroney is averaging over 14 fantasy points per game. While the Dolphins rank in the top 12 in fewest rushing yards allowed, only six teams have given up more rushing touchdowns than Miami has.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 11:24 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (1)

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)

The Weekly Blitz - Week 9

Every week, I pick three games against the spread (ATS) and I am coming off my second 3-0 week in the past three weeks.

My record on the season is now 14-10, which is solid, but still worse than last season's record of 63.3% correct ATS, which I use as my personal benchmark.

That said, here are my week 9 picks:

Panthers +13 (over Saints): Call me crazy -- after all, I've certainly been called worse -- for picking the Panthers here. But we are seeing a re-emergence of the Panthers' rushing attack and Delhomme, well, hasn't screwed that up allowing the Panthers to win three of their past four. In the past four games, DeAngelo Williams (439 rushing yards) and Jonathan Stewart (261) have combined for 700 rushing yards for an average of 5.0 yards per carry and seven touchdowns. In this series, the road team is not only 13-1 against the spread (ATS) since 2001, but they are 11-4 straight up. While I don't expect the Panthers, who were the # 2 seed in the NFC last year, to pull off a huge upset, I expect them to keep it close -- or, at least, within 13 points.

Eagles -3 (over Cowboys): First, I am rooting to be wrong here (as a Cowboys' fan). But I am realistic. At the beginning of the season, I predicted the Eagles to win the NFC East and for the Cowboys to finish third. But the point spread indicates that these two teams are "even" as the home team generally receives three points for playing at home. Meanwhile, the Eagles pummeled the New York Football Giants last week and are firing on all cylinders. The Cowboys, specifically Tony Romo, have limited the mistakes, which has been key to their three-game winning streak. For the first time in his career, Romo has gone interception-less for three consecutive games. Of all the teams Romo has faced at least twice, the Eagles are the only team to force Romo into more interceptions (eight) than touchdowns thrown (seven). But the Eagles are 16-9 straight up and 16-7 ATS versus the Cowboys since 1996.

Chargers +4.5 (over Giants): Philip Rivers is a better quarterback than Eli Manning. Period. And the difference couldn't be any more apparent in the past four weeks. Although Rivers has faced defenses like Pittsburgh's, Denver's and Oakland's (who has Nnamdi Asomugha, arguably the league's top corner), Rivers hasn't had a passer rating lower than 93.6 in any of his past four games. During that span, Rivers has thrown for 261.3 yards per game, completed 60.5 percent of passes and thrown eight touchdowns and only one interception. Eli, on the other hand, has thrown for 204 ypg, completed 52.1% of passes and has thrown more INTs (6) than TDs (5). I expect the Chargers to take advantage of the Giants' depleted secondary. The Giants may end their three-game skid, but the Chargers will, at a minimum, keep this game close.

For my picks from our other three "handicappers," click here.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 06:47 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Chris Chambers waived by Chargers

In 2007, the San Diego Chargers gave up a second-round pick (to the Miami Dolphins) for receiver Chris Chambers. The Dolphins, in turn, used that pick (in 2008) to draft quarterback Chad Henne.

Today the Chargers gave up on Chambers and released him, per Kevin Acee of the San Diego Union-Tribune.

Despite 31 targets, Chambers has only nine receptions (including one Sunday) this season.

Chambers was benched in favor of Malcolm Floyd, who had two receptions for 60 yards against the Raiders.

If someone picks Chambers up on waivers, they will be required to pay him the remaining balance of his $4.55 base salary, which is $2.4 million as noted by Pro Football Talk.

ESPN's Adam Schefter named the Dolphins and the Ravens as potential teams to put in a waiver claim for Chambers.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 09:22 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)

Fantasy Tight End Rankings - Week 8

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

How do we arrive at our rankings?

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

Here are the top 10 tight ends in week 8:

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

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

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

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

Fantasy Defense Rankings - Week 8

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

How do we arrive at our rankings?

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

Here are the top 10 team defenses in week 8:

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

See full list of top 20 defenses for week 8.

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

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

Fantasy Kicker Rankings - Week 8

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

How do we arrive at our rankings?

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

Here are the top 10 kickers in week 8:

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

See full list of top 20 kickers for week 8.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Can it get much easier than that?

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

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)

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)

Hardwick out at least eight weeks

The injury bug has hit the San Diego Chargers hard.

According to Kevin Acee of the San Diego Union-Tribune, center Nick Hardwick, who missed Sunday's game against Baltimore, is having surgery on his ankle today and he will miss at least eight weeks.

There is no word on whether the Chargers will place him on Injured Reserve (IR), which would end his season.

The Chargers placed nose tackle Jamal Williams on IR Sunday.

Scott Mruczkowski will continue to start for Hardwick and Mruczkowski's back-up is Dennis Norman, who was signed last week.

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

Jamal Williams done for year

The San Diego Chargers were already expecting to be without RB LaDainian Tomlinson, center Nick Hardwick and possibly guard Louis Vasquez for today's game against Baltimore.

They will also be without defensive tackle Jamal Williams for today's game and the rest of the season.

Williams, a three-time Pro Bowler, has been placed in injured reserve (IR) by the Chargers and is done for the year. DE Andre Coleman will fill his roster spot and Ogemdi Nwagbuo was Williams' back-up.

The Chargers will also be without defensive tackle Travis Johnson (groin) today.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 08:37 AM | 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)

L.T., Hardwick out against Ravens

When the San Diego Chargers host the Baltimore Ravens on Sunday, they will be without running back LaDainian Tomlinson and center Nick Hardwick, per Kevin Acee of the San Diego Union-Tribune.

Michael Bennett and Darren Sproles will split carries in L.T.'s place. Scott Mruczkowski will start in place of Hardwick.

In addition to both Tomlinson and Hardwick being out Sunday, the Chargers are likely to be without right guard Louis Vasquez, who is listed as questionable on the injury report. If Vasquez doesn't play, Brandyn Dombrowski will start.

"If [Tomlinson doesn't play], Michael Bennett can play," [Ravens coach John] Harbaugh said on Friday, according to Ken Murray of the Baltimore Sun. "Of course, [Darren] Sproles, everybody has been taking about him all week, but Michael Bennett can play. We've seen him before in the past, too. They've got a whole bevy of backs."

With the injuries to the Chargers' offensive line and the stinginess of the Ravens' run defense, neither Bennett nor Sproles is a good fantasy play.

The Ravens were third in the NFL against the run (81.4 yards per game) in 2008. In their first game this year, they held the Chiefs to only 29 rushing yards.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 09:04 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)

Merriman arrested for choking Tila Tequila

Chargers linebacker Shawne "Lights Out" Merriman was arrested early this morning for allegedly choking his girlfriend Tila Tequila, per Craig Gustafson of the San Diego Union-Tribune.

Tequila, who had an MTV reality show "A Shot at Love with Tila Tequila," signed a citizen's arrest warrant claiming battery and false imprisonment.

While legal concerns certainly outweigh football concerns, Merriman, who missed all of last year with a knee injury, is in a contract year. And, obviously, this incident puts his status for the season in jeopardy.

But as Pro Football Talk points out, Merriman is a first offender so he may not face team and/or league discipline until after this runs its course through the legal system.

That being said, the Chargers were the clear-cut favorites to win the AFC West this year. But if their best players shoot themselves in the foot (not literally, like Plaxico Burress), who knows?

Maybe the Raiders (who added Richard Seymour today) could sneak up on the Chargers -- and then sucker punch them in the jaw.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 02:58 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)

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)

Philip Rivers gets six-year extension, per ESPN

The Chargers and their franchise quarterback Philip Rivers have agreed to a six-year contract extension worth $92 million, of which $38-39 million is guaranteed, according to a source of Len Pasquarelli of ESPN.

Rivers, who was acquired in a draft day trade with the Giants for Eli Manning, was in the last year of his rookie contract.

Forever linked due to the trade on draft day, Manning and Rivers will always be compared. This off-season, Manning signed a six-year extension as well that pays Eli $97 million.

Last year, Rivers led the NFL in passer rating (105.5) and touchdown passes (34).

If I were starting a franchise today, I would prefer Rivers, who earned my respect by playing through a torn ACL in the 2007 AFC Championship game, over Manning, who led the Giants to the Super Bowl that season.

Over the past three seasons in which Rivers has started, Rivers has thrown for more yards (10,549) and touchdowns (77) than Manning (9818 and 68, respectively). However, Manning has thrown more interceptions (48) than Rivers (35) during that span.

Considering the Chargers got Rivers and draft picks that led to the selection of Pro Bowlers Shawne Merriman and Nate Kaeding for Eli, the Chargers organization (and their fans) will always be indebted to the Giants organization for making that trade.

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

LT gets 8 more pre-season carries last night

Before the 2009 pre-season, Chargers running back LaDainian Tomlinson carried the ball a total of 14 times in pre-season games during his eight-year career.

Now in two pre-season games in 2009, L.T. has carried the ball 12 times -- four in the first pre-season game and eight times last night against the Cardinals.

“That’s how you get into a rhythm,” Tomlinson said, according to Casey Pearce of Chargers.com. “That’s all you could ask for in the preseason.”

In addition to rushing the ball eight times, Tomlinson caught two passes.

While I believe L.T. was going to have a bounce-back season after his sub-par performance in 2008 with or without pre-season action, he has historically struggled in the first couple of games of the year. Getting "into a rhythm" in the pre-season should help him reverse that trend.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 09:09 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)

L.T. likely to play in pre-season?

AFC Wild Card Game: Indianapolis Colts v San Diego Chargers

In his eight-year career, Chargers running back LaDainian Tomlinson has carried the ball 14 times in the pre-season. In the past three years, he has no pre-season carries.

So, what are the chances that he plays this pre-season?

“From what I've been told, it's pretty encouraging,” LaDainian Tomlinson told Kevin Acee of the San Diego Union-Tribune Monday. “So I'd say it's 85 percent. This year could be different. I wouldn't rule out me playing.”

As Acee points out, Tomlinson has a history of starting the season slowly in the first two weeks. Getting a few carries in the pre-season might help him and the team get off to a quicker start.

Last year, Tomlinson battled a toe injury all season and had the least productive season in his career. He still finished with 1,110 rushing yards.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 11:39 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Vaughn Martin gave up futbol for football

Per Chris Jenkins of the San Diego Union-Tribune, the San Diego Chargers made history when they selected Western Ontario defensive tackle Vaughn Martin in the fourth round of last weekend's NFL draft.

Martin, who had three years of eligibility remaining, became the first Canadian underclassman to be drafted by an NFL team.

And Martin didn't begin playing football until tenth grade. Cricket and soccer were his games.

“Cricket and soccer, every day, all day,” he says. “Growing up, I'd get done playing cricket and go play soccer, then go play more cricket, then more soccer.”

Although he's a "project," Martin has good size (6'3" and 319 pounds) and athleticism.

“There's no exchange rate as far as weight and height, so I don't give away anything there,” Martin says. “I do give up years of coaching and technique.”

However, he likely has a pair of cleats and knows how to put on his shoulder pads now unlike when he started in high school.

“I didn't have cleats, so I was wearing tennis shoes, slipping all over the place,” Martin says. “First time out, the coach had to put the pads on for me. I had them on backward. It was pretty bad. I tried to make cuts and I couldn't. I had no idea what I was doing. I'd just look for the ball and go get it.

Martin has played all defensive line positions in college. He'll likely be worked into the rotation as a defensive end and be an understudy to nose tackle Jamal Williams.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 11:31 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Darren Sproles signed his franchise tender

Tuesday San Diego Chargers RB/KR Darren Sproles signed his franchise tender, which will pay him a guaranteed 2009 salary of $6.62 million.

"Darren wanted to go into the season knowing everything is cool," said his agent, Gary Wichard. "He wanted to be at minicamp. He's a Charger."

Sproles had 330 rushing yards and 342 receiving yards in 2008. He had seven touchdowns (one rushing, five receiving and one return).

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 06:37 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Shawne Merriman: "...I look amazing"

The San Diego Chargers off-season conditioning program began today.

One of the players that didn't plan on attending the opening session was Shawne "Lights Out" Merriman. However, Merriman plans on showing up later in the week.

By all accounts, he is ready to go. Just ask him, he'll tell ya.

“I feel great, and I look amazing,” Merriman said last week.

One day Merriman will come out of his shell.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 07:32 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Darren Sproles looking for long-term deal

The San Diego Chargers began their off-season (voluntary) conditioning program today.

RB Darren Sproles, who was franchised by the Chargers, will attend the off-season workout program. However, he'll likely sit out of mini-camp in May to limit the potential of risk of injury.

“I know there are going to be some things that are limited, but I expect him to take part in most of (the offseason),” Chargers coach Norv Turner said. “You always want them there, you always want everyone there. But he does a great job of getting himself physically ready. ... Darren will continue to do that.”

Sproles has not yet signed his tender as the team's designated franchise player. Sproles will earn a salary of $6.62 million, which is the average of the top 5 RB salaries for 2009, if he and the team don't work out a long-term deal.

Teams have until July 15th to negotiate long-term contracts with their franchise players. If no deal is reached by then, they won't be able to resume negotiation until after the season ends.

Sproles rushed for 330 yards on 61 carries and had 29 receptions for 342 yards last season. He also averaged 26.0 yards per kickoff and 11.3 yards per punt return.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 07:20 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Chargers' Jeromey Clary receives most performance-based pay

The top earner in the NFL's performance-based pay system in 2008 was Jeromey Clary, who received $405,859 in additional compensation.

The performance-based pay system, which was negotiated into the collective bargaining agreement, determines additional compensation based on comparison of salary and playing time. In total, $105 million was awarded to NFL players in additional performance-based pay.

Clary, the Chargers' sixth-round pick in 2006, started all 16 games in 2008 for the Chargers.

After Clary, the next four highest recipients of performance-based pay were Cardinals center Lyle Sendlein ($348,134), Washington Redskins safety Chris Horton ($342,197), New Orleans Saints guard Carl Nicks ($335,033) and Cleveland Browns cornerback Brandon McDonald ($329,803).

In 2009, the performance-based pay is expected to increase by 5% to $3.5 million per team. In 2007, the league paid out $99 million and Willie Colon was the highest earner with $309,534 received.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 07:54 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

L.T., Chargers agree on restructured contract

LaDainian Tomlinson and the San Diego Chargers have agreed on a restructured deal that will keep L.T. in San Diego for the next 3 years.

Per Kevin Acee of the San Diego Union-Tribune, it is believed that the restructured deal pays L.T. the same 2009 salary ($6.725 million) as the original contract but less next year and in 2011. He was due to receive $17.275 million in the final two years of the deal.

“What he's done since his career started here, what he's meant to the community and the fans and the organization, it was unthinkable he wouldn't be here,” Dean Spanos, the Chargers' president and CEO, said Tuesday night.

While it's unknown how much less he will receive during the final two years, Spanos said he was willing to “give a little extra” to make sure L.T. stays in San Diego.

Tomlinson, who was drafted 5th overall in 2001 by the Chargers, had his worst NFL season of his 8-year career. He rushed for 1,110 yards and 11 TDs.

He has never had a season below 1000 yard or 10 TDs. His streak of 8 consecutive 1000-yard rushing seasons leads active players. Steven Jackson and Thomas Jones are second with 4 consecutive seasons.

“I love San Diego and being a part of this team with my teammates,” Tomlinson said in the statement. “My No. 1 priority was to stay here in San Diego. I truly believe this is the place that gives me the best chance to be successful and win a championship. I want to finish the job we started when I got here eight years ago. My heart has always been in San Diego. I couldn't imagine putting on another uniform.”

NFL contracts seem more like a series of one-year deals as teams seem to cut players whenever it serves the team's purposes. And players often complain about their existing deals and/or hold out when they feel underpaid.

So with a 2010 roster bonus in the re-worked deal, the only certainty is that he'll be in a Chargers uniform in 2009. I'll take a wait-and-see approach for the final two years.

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

Bills sign Florence, Chargers squash Cromartie rumor

The Buffalo Bills signed CB Drayton Florence to a 2-year contract that is worth $6.6 million. Incentives could increase the value of the contract to $7.3 million.

Florence signed with the Jacksonville Jaguars last off-season and was released by them this off-season. After his release, the Chargers were talking with Florence. The speculation was that if the Chargers worked out a deal to bring back Florence, that Cromartie might have been the odd-man-out.

With Florence signing with Buffalo, Chargers GM A.J. Smith has said that Cromartie is "not being traded."

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 10:54 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Is Antonio Cromartie on the trading block?

Per Kevin Acee of the San Diego Union-Tribune, the San Diego Chargers will put CB Antonio Cromartie on the trading block if they bring back free-agent CB Drayton Florence.

According to Acee, both Florence and the Chargers are talking and could have a deal in place this week. However, signing Florence doesn't mean he returns to the starting lineup as Antoine Cason would likely get the starting nod.

Florence signed with the Jacksonville Jaguars as a free agent last off-season, but was recently released along with Jerry Porter, the Jags' other big free-agent signing.

Cromartie set a team record for interceptions with 10 in 2007, however, he struggled last season with only 2 interceptions.

Chargers GM A.J. Smith wouldn't comment on Cromartie's status.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 11:16 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Saints interested in L.T.?

By now, you'd have to be living under a rock to not be well-versed in the L.T.-A.J. saga.

If you remember, in an effort to get the public even further on his side, L.T. issued a statement on his website indicating his desire to return to the Chargers. In return, Chargers GM A.J. Smith mocked L.T. LB Shawne Merriman chimed in and said "it needs to stop now.” Tomlinson and Smith have since cleared the air personally.

However, it is widely-believed that the Chargers will release the franchise's all-time leading rusher if he doesn't agree to a restructured contract.

If he is released, one team that would be interested is New Orleans per the National Football Post.

The Saints were the most explosive offense in the league last year averaging 28.9 ppg and 410.7 ypg. Drew Brees fell only 15 yards short of Dan Marino's all-time single-season passing record last year.

Although L.T. had his career low of 1,110 rushing yards in 2008, he could bounce back big if (big ifs) he ends up in the Crescent City and he's fully healthy.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 11:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Chargers franchise Darren Sproles

San Diego Chargers RB/KR Darren Sproles stated that he wanted to remain a Charger, but he was going to test the free-agent market. Today, the Chargers prevented Sproles from truly testing the market by placing their franchise tag on him.

Sproles can negotiate with other teams. But if a team makes Sproles an offer and the Chargers don't match it, the Chargers will receive two first-round picks as compensation.

"We felt uncomfortable with the unknown of [him] going to the market," Chargers general manager A.J. Smith said. "We're planning on him being here ... there is flexibility in it. It can go in many directions. Hopefully we'll continue to negotiate a long-term deal."

The Chargers can negotiate with Sproles until July 15th. If a deal isn't reached by then, the team would have to wait until the end of the season to continue negotiations.

Sproles will earn a salary of $6.62 million, which is the average of the top 5 RB salaries for 2009. In fact, Sproles can partly thank current teammate LaDainian Tomlinson has the highest salary ($7,816,666).

But the Chargers are expected to offer a restructured contract to LT. And if he doesn't accept it, there's a strong possibility that the Chargers will release him.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 07:18 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Chargers possibly to franchise Sproles

San Diego Chargers RB Darren Sproles has said that he would prefer to "stay a Charger," but he was "going to test" the free-agent market.

As the Chargers determine how to potentially make an offer to restructure the contract of LaDainian Tomlinson, they are considering the possibility of placing the franchise tag on Sproles.

If the Chargers franchise Sproles, he would earn $6.62 million in 2009. The Chargers have until February 19th to decide whether or not they will use the tag on Sproles.

In theory, the Chargers would receive two 1st-round draft choices if they tagged Sproles and he signed with another team. However, as a steep price to pay, it has yet to happen since the inception of the franchise tag in 1993.

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

Chargers Jamal Williams arrested for DUI

In the steeped NFL tradition of drinking and driving, Chargers NT Jamal Williams is doing his part to uphold the tradition.

Of course, football is the ultimate team game and fellow Charger Vincent Jackson was arrested last month for DUI as well.

Although results are pending for the blood-alcohol test that Williams took, he has been booked and later released on bail.

While I make fun of a topic that definitely isn't funny, I still don't understand how these players with their multi-million dollar salaries don't hire drivers or car services.

Why jeopardize such a priviledged lifestyle?

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 06:35 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)

Darren Sproles to test the free agency market

Not only do the San Diego Chargers have a decision to make about LaDainian Tomlinson, who expressed his desire to return to San Diego, but they also have a decision to make about soon-to-be free agent Darren Sproles.

“I'm going to test it,” Darren Sproles said. “It makes sense. But I like where I'm at. I want to stay a Charger.”

If I were AJ Smith, Chargers general manager, the decision would be made for me based on what happens with the other 31 teams.

If someone is willing to give Sproles the money and role of a starter, Smith would be foolish to match it. And Sproles would be foolish to reject it.

Sproles had 330 yards rushing on 61 carries (5.4 avg) and 1 TD as well as 29 receptions for 342 yards and 5 TDs in the regular season. In the Chargers first post-season game, Sproles finished with 328 all-purpose yards, the 3rd-highest total ever in a playoff game.

At 5'6" and 181 pounds, I doubt that Sproles could take the punishment as an every-down back. But his quickness and shiftiness perfectly suit his current role with the Chargers (provided LT comes back).

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 03:52 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

AJ calls LT

With Chargers RB LaDainian Tomlinson posting his lowest rushing total (1,110 yards) in his 8-year career and being unhealthy for another post-season, there has been a lot of speculation about L.T.'s future with the Chargers.

On his website, Tomlinson publicly stated his desire to return to the Chargers. When asked about L.T.'s comments, Chargers GM A.J. Smith mocked L.T., which upset team president Dean Spanos and LB Shawne Merriman. Merriman said that this "stuff" isn't going to "bring a Super Bowl to San Diego."

Smith reached out to Tomlinson to clear the air.

“It was important to me that LT know exactly what happened,” Smith said on the site. “I just answered a question and unfortunately my response was inappropriate. After reading my response to the question, I can see why it was interpreted the way it was. I absolutely meant no disrespect toward LT – none. I have the utmost respect for him on two fronts – as a player and as a person.”

Tomlinson told Chargers.com: “It was great to hear from him. It really went well. It's always better talking directly to someone one on one. He was very upbeat and very sincere. He felt bad about what had happened.”

The Chargers are expected to offer L.T. a pay cut next month with incentives. If he doesn't accept the offer, the Chargers will likely release him.

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

Merriman says: "It needs to stop now”

Over the past week, speculation about LaDainian Tomlinson's future with the San Diego Chargers have increased. Tomlinson made comments about his desire to return to San Diego and Chargers GM A.J. Smith mocked Tomlinson.

Chargers LB Shawne Merriman, who missed 2008 with torn ligaments in his knee, has had enough with the situation being aired publicly.

“That (stuff) doesn't help bring a Super Bowl to San Diego,” linebacker Shawne Merriman said. “And that (stuff) needs to stop, period. It needs to stop now.”

“We're a team, upstairs and downstairs, no matter what,” Merriman said. “This is a business, but if you address the situation publicly now you have turmoil."

Tomlinson is tied for 4th all-time in TDs (141) and 14th all-time in rushing yards (11,760).

Merriman's contract is up at the end of 2009.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 10:33 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Chargers GM mocks Tomlinson

Amid speculation about his future with the San Diego Chargers, RB LaDainian Tomlinson expressed his desire to stay in San Diego.

...I feel that I need to make it very clear that I have NO intentions of leaving San Diego. San Diego is where my career started and where I'd like it to end...

Chargers GM A.J. Smith mocked Tomlinson when asked about his statement that L.T. wants to be back:

“My first reaction was we both have similar feelings,” Smith said. “I have no intentions of leaving San Diego. San Diego is where my GM career started and where I'd like it to end. I also have nothing but love and the utmost respect for this team, the players and the Spanos family. I have absolutely no control over how long I will be with the Chargers."

Whether you think L.T.'s diminishing skills, increasing age and durability concerns are reason to part ways based on current salary, Tomlinson has always handled himself with class. Smith can't say the same.

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

L.T. wants to be back in S.D.

Chargers RB LaDainian Tomlinson, who rushed for a career-low 1,110 yards, wrote on his website that he wants to be back in San Diego next season.

"I feel that I need to make it very clear that I have NO intentions of leaving San Diego. San Diego is where my career started and where I'd like it to end," Tomlinson wrote.

Darren Sproles, who had a huge game against the Colts this post-season, is the team's back-up RB and would likely step into the starter role if L.T. bolts.

Can Sproles handle a full workload for 16 weeks? At 5'6" and 181 lbs, it is unlikely.

The question according to Kevin Acee of the San Diego Union-Tribune is whether or not L.T. would be willing to consider a pay cut. He expects L.T. to be presented with a proposal in the latter half of February.

In the Chargers last 4 playoff games, L.T. missed the most recent game (at Pittsburgh) and has only 58 rushing yards on 14 carries in the other 3.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 11:34 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Chargers likely to face Steelers without Tomlinson

Last week, the Chargers beat the Colts to extend their winning streak to 5 games (regular and post-season). Although LaDainian Tomlinson started the game, the Chargers essentially won the game without Tomlinson.

L.T. carried the ball 5 times for 25 yards and a score, but left the game for good in the 2nd quarter. But Darren Sproles had a huge game finished with 328 all-purpose yards (3rd most ever in a playoff game).

L.T., who has confirmed that he has a torn tendon, is likely to miss the Steelers game on Sunday.

“I don't think anybody can know the frustration,” said Tomlinson, dealing with a debilitating injury for the second straight postseason. “It's tough dealing with it. ... I really sometimes want to go home and stay and lock myself up and not go in public just because all my life all I ever wanted to do was play football. That's all I ever wanted to do, win a championship.

“To feel so helpless, to be at this point where we have a chance to do it and again, I can't do anything about it, I can't play. ... It's like I'm being punished for something, and it's tough to deal with.”

There's been some speculation about the possibility of Tomlinson getting traded in the off-season. I think that's unlikely, but they did fire a head coach that finished a season with a 14-2 record. And there's more loyalty on Desperate Housewives than in the NFL.

“Different things happen,” he said. “With all the talk, no one has come to me and squashed it, so it must be a possibility. I don't know if I'd be surprised or mad. I would feel like I always thought about the loyalty in this league. There is no loyalty. People forget the things you've done, the person you've been, the heart you've shown.”

Michael "The Burner" Turner, last year's back-up to L.T., finished 2nd in the NFL in rushing yards (1699) and TDs (17) in his first season as a starter for the Atlanta Falcons. While Sproles is versatile, dynamic and explosive, I'm not sure that he could withstand the punishment as an every-down back during a 16-game season.

The question for now is how closely can Sproles, who had only 1 carry for no yards against Pittsburgh in November, duplicate last week's performance? It's going to be tough against the NFL's stingiest defense.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 12:16 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Vincent Jackson busted for DUI

Coming off an OT win against the hottest team in the NFL at the time, the Chargers have to deal with an off-the-field issue as they prepare to head to the hostile environment in Pittsburgh.

Vincent Jackson, who led the Chargers with 1,098 receiving yards, was arrested after failing a sobriety check.

"Obviously we're disappointed," [Chargers GM A.J.] Smith said. "We take these issues very seriously. Moving forward, we will monitor the situation and have no further comment."

According to the report, Jackson was on probation for a previous DUI arrest. I still can't understand why these famous athletes with gobs of money would jeopardize their livelihoods, their lives and those of other drivers when it's a drop in the bucket (on their salary) to hire a driver.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 08:20 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Ben Roethlisberger to play vs Chargers

In the Steelers regular-season finale, Ben Roethlisberger was carted off the field and suffered a concussion.

Having passed his final post-concussion test, Big Ben will play Sunday against the San Diego Chargers.

"It's just like when a player comes off a knee surgery or some type of injury," Roethlisberger said. "You can't go out there and play scared or afraid to get hurt. I'm going to go out there and play normal football. If I get hit, I get hit."

There really aren't any "ifs" about it. Roethlisberger will get hit. He has been sacked 46 times this year including 4 times when the Steelers beat the Chargers 11-10. Only Matt Cassel has been sacked more (47 times).

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 11:57 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Bolts beat Colts in OT

Despite having a detached tendon, LaDainian Tomlinson started last night against the Colts. He carried the ball 5 times for 25 yards and a score, but came out in the second quarter for good.

"From the first run, it was evident that I just didn't have the burst," said Tomlinson... "I couldn't put my foot on the ground and get through the hole the way I wanted to. I went as long as I could. After the TD run, it was at the point where I felt like I was making it worse."

Darren Sproles may be small in stature (5'6", 181 lbs), but he came up big last night. Sproles finished with 328 all-purpose yards: 105 rushing, 45 receiving and 178 on returns. That is the third-highest total ever in a playoff game.

The Chargers will play in Tennessee if the Dolphins beat the Ravens or play in Pittsburgh if the Ravens win.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 11:57 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

ESPN reports L.T. has detached tendon

According to Chris Mortensen of ESPN, Chargers RB LaDainian Tomlinson has a "detached tendon that connects one of his adductor (groin) muscles to his pubic bone."

Ouch.

Whether fair or not, readers are ripping (no pun intended) L.T. in the posted comments.

Coincidentally, L.T. left last year's AFC Championship game after about 5 minutes into the game. And he took a lot of abuse in public and the media as his toughness was questioned.

“I have expectations, and when you don't meet my expectations, you open yourself for us to try to guess,” [Deion] Sanders said. “Now what's the problem? You're a big-time player. And big-time players must play big-time games.”

Tomlinson arguably had his worst statistical season this year. He rushed for 1110 yards (career low) and had only 2 100+ yard games (vs Oakland and New Orleans) this season.

His 11 rushing TDs and 3.8 yards/carry (ypc) were the worst of his career since his rookie season (10 TDs and 3.6 ypc, respectively).

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 03:19 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Mike Shanahan to San Diego?

Earlier today, the Denver Broncos fired head coach Mike Shanahan.

Mike Florio of PFT is reporting that a "highly-placed league source suspects that something is happening with Shanahan and San Diego" even though Florio views it as "unlikely."

There is no mention of who the "highly-placed league source" is, but Ted Sundquist, a former Broncos GM, is a contributor to PFT.

While I agree with Florio that it is "unlikely," the Chargers did fire Marty Schottenheimer after a 14-2 season. So stay tuned...

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 09:40 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

San Diego Chargers win AFC West

Four weeks ago, the San Diego Chargers were 4-8. Tonight the Chargers beat the Broncos 52-21 to win the AFC West.

The San Diego Chargers set a franchise record with 296 rushing yards. LaDainian Tomlinson had 3 rushing TDs, however, LT sprained his abdomen and will be evaluated tomorrow.

The Chargers and Colts were my pre-season picks to play in the AFC Championship game. Instead they will meet in the first round of the playoffs as two of the hottest teams in the AFC. The Colts have won 9 straight and the Chargers 4 straight. The winner of next week's game will be a tough out.

Both QBs are playing exceptionally well and a bonafide MVP candidates. Philip Rivers has thrown 11 TDs to only 1 INT in the Chargers 4-game winning streak. Peyton Manning has thrown 17 TDs to only 3 INTs in the Colts 9-game winning streak.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 11:44 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Playoff seeds - matchups

255 NFL regular-season games have been played. 1 to go. And that game between the Hatfields and McCoys will determine the AFC West champion. In essence, it's a play-in or playoff game.

AFC Match-ups (Seed):

First-round byes: Tennessee Titans (1) and Pittsburgh Steelers (2)

(6) Baltimore Ravens at Miami Dolphins (3)
(5) Indianapolis Colts at winner of San Diego Chargers/Denver Broncos (4)

NFC Match-ups (Seed):

First-round byes: New York Giants (1) and Carolina Panthers (2)

(6) Philadelphia Eagles at Minnesota Vikings (3)
(5) Atlanta Falcons at Arizona Cardinals (4)

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

Chargers-Broncos: "The Hatfields and McCoys?"

Jay Cutler and Philip Rivers don't like each other. And neither care who knows.

“I'm just not that big a fan of the guy.” Cutler said of Rivers. “I don't like how he carries himself. I don't like some of the stuff he does on the field.”

Earlier in the week, Chargers LB Matt Wilhelm called Jay Cutler a "punk." Later he said that he was joking, but I don't buy it.

Wilhelm went on to make Rivers sound like he was Opie Taylor from Mayberry.

"Philip Rivers is not only one of the best football players I've ever met in my entire life. He is one of the best people off the field," Wilhelm said. "... He's a family man. He's in church every sunday. That's it. That's all you really get is golly and darn. Never a swear word. Never anything rude and crude as I mentioned have been said by one person. It never comes out of Philip's mouth.

And what does Chargers DE Jacques Cesaire dislike about the Broncos? Well, I think it would be easier to list the things he likes...

“They have bad teeth,” the Chargers defensive end disclosed Wednesday. “They have bad hair. They don't know how to cook. What else don't I like about them? They watch “Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman.' Who does that? Who watches “Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman?' That's what I want to know. I heard the Denver Broncos watch it. I'm just sayin'.”

“The Hatfields and McCoys?” “Yeah,” Cesaire said. “We don't know why we hate each other. We just do.”

Down the stretch, Rivers has played extremely well and, although he didn't make the Pro Bowl, he deserves MVP consideration if the Chargers win the game (and division) Sunday. The Chargers have won 3 straight to be in a position to control their own destiny. In those games, Rivers has completed 64.4% of his passes for 847 yards (282 ypg), 9 TDs and only 1 INT.

Here is a statistical comparison between both starting QBs through week 15:

Rivers: 104.0 QB Rating (leads NFL), 64.8% comp., 3802 yards, 32 TDs, 11 INTs
Cutler: 87.0 QB Rating, 61.9% comp., 4210 yards, 24 TDs, 16 INTs

As much as they dislike each other, the losing QB Sunday night will hopefully have some earplugs handy.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 10:15 AM | 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)

Only NFL team to not have a double-digit loss

There are 32 teams in the ~~No Fun League~~ National Football League. 31 of those teams have suffered a loss of 10 points or more. Of course, some teams have suffered many of those.

But which team has not? The Giants? The Steelers? The Titans? The Panthers? Nope.

If you said the 7-8 San Diego Chargers, you'd be right. 8 losses and none by double digits.

Here are the Chargers losses on the season (complete Chargers schedule):

vs Panthers 24-26
at Broncos 38-39 (Ed Hochuli game)
at Dolphins 10-17
at Bills 14-23
at Saints 32-37
at Steelers 10-11
vs Colts 20-23
vs Falcons 16-22

It's been a disappointing (and unlucky) season for the Chargers, who determine their fate when they host the Broncos. Winner takes division and goes to the playoffs.

Here are the number of double-digit losses for teams with winning records (i.e., better records than the Chargers):

Bears (2), Broncos (4), Bucs (2), Cardinals (3), Colts (3), Cowboys (2), Dolphins (3), Eagles (1), Falcons (3), Giants (2), Jets (4), Panthers (3), Patriots (3), Ravens (2), Redskins (3), Saints (2), Steelers (1), Titans (1), Vikings (1)

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 08:39 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)

Bob Sanders out for Chargers game

Colts safety Bob Sanders, reigning Defensive Player of the Year, will miss his 2nd game in a row and his 7th game on the season.

The Colts are on a 3-game winning streak and enter tonight's game against the Chargers with a 6-4 record.

Last week, without Sanders in the lineup, the Texans ran for 177 yards and Steve Slaton had 156 yards on 11 carries.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 09:19 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Ron Rivera in, Ted Cottrell out

Today Norv Turner replaced Ted Cottrell with Ron Rivera as defensive coordinator.

Rivera "interacts well with players," Turner said. "He communicates extremely well. I believe he's experienced. I think his expectation level is very, very high, and I believe there's something to having done it and then having a feel for who you're playing and what you need to do to give your guys the best chance to succeed."

The San Diego Chargers are arguably the biggest disappointment in the NFL as many had expected the 3-5 Chargers to represent the AFC in the Super Bowl.

Offensively, the Chargers are 2nd in the NFL in scoring (28.0 ppg) behind the Arizona Cardinals.

Defensively, on the other hand, the Chargers are 23rd in scoring (24.9 ppg) and 28th in yards allowed (371.6 ypg).

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 08:53 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)

Shawne Merriman will play in 2008

Shawne Merriman has two torn ligaments in his knee. He has visited four separate doctors looking for the response that he wanted to hear. While they all recommended surgery, Merriman has decided to play in 2008.

Merriman said all four doctors he saw said he needed surgery, but there "just wasn't a time frame on that. My knee still looks pretty good. The decision was left up to me to play. If you give a football player a decision to play, you know, I'm going to play."

Is he making a mistake? I personally feel that he is making a mistake. However, I believe that he's doing the right thing. In other words, I disagree with the decision in the general sense. I wouldn't do it if it were me and I think it's a bad risk-reward decision. But I also feel that everyone has to do what they feel is most appropriate for them.

First, I completely understand his desire to play the game of football and be an integral contributor to a team that has legitimate Super Bowl hopes. In fact, I admire him for it.

But the possibility of a career-ending injury looms. I don't think it's worth the risk for Merriman and the Chargers to take. I realize if Merriman injures his knee to the point that he never plays again, the Chargers will obviously not re-sign him to another contract.

But it is Shawne Merriman's body. He's been visiting top doctors across the country so I'm sure he fully understands the risks involved. It's his decision to make. It would be a mistake if he were caving under pressure from the Chargers management, coaches and players. But it appears that he is not.

However, what kind of precedent is Shawne Merriman setting for other players dealing with injuries?

“Don’t think the next player that has a pull or tear won’t be reminded by his coaches that if Shawne Merriman is still producing for his team with two torn knee ligaments, you should be able to play through [it],” the source opined.

It’s a great point. Usually, it’s the player who’s being cautious and the team cajoling him into playing. Now that Merriman has made his high-profile decision to ignore his long-term health and well-being, the other teams will be able to press the buttons of their own players by merely mentioning Merriman’s name.

Hindsight is always 20-20. For Merriman's sake, hopefully we'll look back at this some day and feel that he made the right decision.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 09:31 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Eric Weddle gets it

Most of the time, we're reading about how NFL player (or professional athlete in general) acts like there are no consequences to his actions. Heck, even ProFootballTalk.com has a counter labeled "Days Without an Arrest". From Derrick Martin busted at airport with marijuana to {insert name} busted for DUI to Brandon Jones bringing his gun to the airport, it seems like nobody gets it. It seems like there is no accountability, no common sense, no nada...

I saw this article online and although this should be the norm, it was nice to see. Eric Weddle of the Chargers gets it.

"You see every day guys getting suspended, things like that, but if you're focused, stuff shouldn't happen," Weddle said. "I know what I'm here for. I'm here to play football. It's my job. Support my wife and my little baby girl - that's all that matters to me."

"I couldn't be more blessed, couldn't be in a better situation," Weddle said.

The last sentence sums up how every fan of the game would feel if they had the opportunity to play the game they love for insane gobs of money. Finally, thanks to Eric Weddle, it seems like someone gets it.

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

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