TheDailyBlitz.com: San Francisco 49ers Archives

49ers to franchise Franklin, per Adam Schefter

According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, the San Francisco 49ers will place the franchise tag on nose tackle Aubrayo Franklin, which means he'll earn $7 million in 2010.

That is, unless the Niners and Franklin reach a long-term deal although Schefter believes that is unlikely.

Franklin, who was Baltimore's fifth-round pick in 2003, was acquired by San Francisco in 2007. Last year, he finished with 36 tackles and two sacks.

The deadline for teams to apply the franchise tag to a player is February 25th.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 06:10 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Football: Week 17 RB rankings

While most fantasy football leagues conduct their championship game in week 16, some leagues still hold their title game in week 17. That creates the extra challenge of trying to forecast playing time in addition to evaluating matchups.

That said, here are our top five fantasy running backs for week 17:

1. Chris Johnson, Titans (at Seahawks): No player will be more watched in week 17 than "Every Coach's Dream." Johnson is 128 yards shy of 2,000 and 233 yards shy of Eric Dickerson's record of 2,105. With a streak of ten straight games of 100+ yards, 128 seems like a sure thing. With a season-high performance of 228, the single-season record seems like a possible stretch goal. In the past 10 games, Johnson has also scored 11 touchdowns.

2. Ray Rice, Ravens (at Raiders): Rice was one of the guys that I expected to have a breakout year and I suggested you target him in your fantasy football draft in the pre-season. Now in a meaningful win-and-you're-in game against the run-friendly Raiders should allow Rice to cap his breakout season. No team has allowed more rushing touchdowns than the Raiders, who have allowed 21 rushing scores.

3. Maurice Jones-Drew, Jaguars (at Browns): Pocket Hercules has a nose for the endzone reaching pay dirt 16 times this season. Of course, his most famous TD was the one that he didn't score. But only Adrian Peterson has more rushing TDs (17) than Jones-Drew (15) has. Although the Browns have finished strong with their three-game winning streak, they have allowed the second-most fantasy points to opposing running backs this season. Despite the Jaguars chances of making the playoffs being remote due to the need of help/tie-breakers, there is plenty of incentive to give MJD a healthy dose of touches in week 17.

4. Adrian Peterson, Vikings (vs Giants): The Vikings have stumbled to the regular-season finish line losing three of their final four games. With another loss, there's a good chance that the Vikings could enter the playoffs without a bye. In other words, they have incentive to play AD and the rest of the Vikings offensive (and defensive) starters. Peterson leads the NFL with 17 rushing touchdowns and only two teams have allowed more rushing touchdowns than the Giants, who gave up a 206-yard game against Carolina's Jonathan Stewart last week.

5. Frank Gore, 49ers (at Rams): Along with the Raiders, no team has allowed more rushing touchdowns than the Rams (21). And the Rams have allowed the fourth-most fantasy points to opposing running backs this season. In the past three weeks, Gore has 345 rushing yards and two touchdowns. He also has nine receptions for 110 yards during that span. If the one-win Rams fall behind early, Gore should be the recipient of plenty of carries and generate a ton of fantasy points.

Click here to view our full running back rankings for week 17.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 08:46 AM | 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 Quarterback Rankings - Week 9

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

How do we arrive at our rankings?

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

Here are the top 10 quarterbacks in week 9:

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

See full list of top 25 quarterbacks for week 9.

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

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

Fantasy Running Back Rankings - Week 9

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

How do we arrive at our rankings?

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

Here are the top 10 running backs in week 9:

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

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

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

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

Fantasy Wide Receiver Rankings - Week 9

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

How do we arrive at our rankings?

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

Here are the top 10 fantasy wide receivers in week 9:

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

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

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

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

Fantasy Tight End Rankings - Week 9

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

How do we arrive at our rankings?

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

Here are the top 10 tight ends in week 9:

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

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

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

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

Fantasy Defense Rankings - Week 9

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

How do we arrive at our rankings?

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

Here are the top 10 team defenses in week 9:

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

See full list of top 20 defenses for week 9.

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

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

Fantasy Quarterback Rankings - Week 8

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

How do we arrive at our rankings?

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

Here are the top 10 quarterbacks in week 8:

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

See full list of top 25 quarterbacks for week 8.

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

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

Fantasy Running Back Rankings - Week 8

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

How do we arrive at our rankings?

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

Here are the top 10 running backs in week 8:

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

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

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

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

Fantasy Wide Receiver Rankings - Week 8

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

How do we arrive at our rankings?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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)

Crabtree has more catches than Heyward-Bey already

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

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

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

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

Crabtree finished with five catches and 56 yards.

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

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

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

Hill benched for Smith, 3 TDs for Davis

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

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

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

Hill completed six of 11 passes for only 45 yards.

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

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

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

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

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

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)

Crabtree signs six-year deal with Niners

And then there were none.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

But he won't be out there this Sunday.

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

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

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

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

Crabtree to resume contract talks with Niners

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Fantasy Studs - Week 4 Running Backs

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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)

Gore to miss three weeks (two games)

The San Francisco 49ers will be without running back Frank Gore for the next two games with a right ankle sprain and right foot sprain, per Matt Barrows of the Sacramento Bee.

Gore, who had 216 yards in week 2, left yesterday's game after carrying the ball only one time for four yards.

While Gore is out, rookie Glen Coffee will get the start. Coffee had 25 carries for 54 yards against the Vikings yesterday.

San Francisco's next two games are against the Rams and the Falcons. Then they have a bye in week 6.

Both the Rams and Falcons rank in the bottom 10 in the NFL in rushing defense allowing 148 and 136 rushing yards per game, respectively.

Per Barrows, the 49ers may move Kory Sheets from the practice squad to the active roster.

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

Frank Gore left game, X-rays negative

49ers running back Frank Gore was carted to the locker room after suffering an ankle injury earlier in today's game against the Vikings.

Although the X-rays were negative, Gore's return is considered "doubtful."

Gore carried the ball only once for four yards.

With 8+ minutes remaining in the game, 49ers' back-up RB Glen Coffee has 20 carries for 55 yards and the Niners lead the Vikings 24-20.

Coffee, the team's third-round draft pick, led the pre-season in rushing with 249 yards. In his first two regular-season games, he rushed for 10 yards on 10 carries and no touchdowns.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 03:41 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)

Fantasy Football QB Rankings - Week 2

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

How do we arrive at our rankings?

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

Here are the top 10 quarterbacks in week 2:

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

See full list of top 25 quarterbacks for week 2.

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

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

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

Fantasy Football RB Rankings - Week 2

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

How do we arrive at our rankings?

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

Here are the top 10 running backs in week 2:

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

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

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

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

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 06:58 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Football WR Rankings - Week 2

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

How do we arrive at our rankings?

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

Here are the top 10 fantasy wide receivers in week 2:

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

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

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

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

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

Fantasy Football TE Rankings - Week 2

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

How do we arrive at our rankings?

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

Here are the top 10 quarterbacks in week 2:

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

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

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

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

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 06:26 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Football Team Defense Rankings - Week 2

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

How do we arrive at our rankings?

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

Here are the top 10 team defenses in week 2:

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

See full list of top 20 defenses for week 2.

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

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

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

Fantasy Football Kickers - Week 2

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

How do we arrive at our rankings?

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

Here are the top 10 kickers in week 2:

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

See full list of top 20 kickers for week 2.

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

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

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

2009 NFC West Prediction

Here are my picks for the NFC West in 2009:

SEATTLE SEAHAWKS
Prediction: 8-8 (Seahawks Schedule | Seahawks Forum)

The Seahawks have Matt Hasselbeck back and healthy, they added a T.J. Houshmandzadeh as their No. 1 receiver and they have recently signed Edgerrin James to join Julius Jones in their backfield. While their running game is still suspect (at best), the Seahawks should be able to move the ball in the air. Injuries are a concern. Left tackle Walter Jones will miss (at least) the season opener and cornerback Marcus Trufant will begin the season on the Physically Unable to Perform list and therefore miss the first six games. The Seahawks allowed a league-worst 259.3 passing yards per game last year. But the Seahawks have the most talented group of linebackers -- rookie Aaron Curry, Lofa Tatupu and Leroy Hill -- in the division.

Strength of Schedule: 2009 opponents had a .457 winning percentage in 2008 (24th)

2008 Playoff Teams on Schedule (5): at Indianapolis, vs Arizona, at Arizona, at Minnesota, vs Tennessee

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

Continue reading "2009 NFC West Prediction" »

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 11:17 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Kicker Rankings - Week 1

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

How do we arrive at our rankings?

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

Here are the top 10 kickers in week 1:

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

See full list of top 20 kickers for week 1.

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

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

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

2009 Fantasy Defense Rankings - Week 1

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

How do we arrive at our rankings?

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

Here are the top 10 team defenses in week 1:

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

See full list of top 20 defenses for week 1.

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

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

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 08:04 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

2009 Fantasy WR Rankings - Week 1

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

How do we arrive at our rankings?

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

Here are the top 10 fantasy wide receivers in week 1:

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

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

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

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

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 07:48 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

2009 Fantasy RB Rankings - Week 1

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

How do we arrive at our rankings?

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

Here are the top 10 running backs in week 1:

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

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

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

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

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

2009 Fantasy QB Rankings - Week 1

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

How do we arrive at our rankings?

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

Here are the top 10 quarterbacks in week 1:

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

See full list of top 25 quarterbacks for week 1.

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

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

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

2009 Fantasy TE Rankings - Week 1

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

How do we arrive at our rankings?

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

Here are the top 10 quarterbacks in week 1:

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

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

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

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

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 06:32 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Links to all 32 NFL team final roster cuts

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Full Top 150 Consensus Rankings here.

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

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)

Shaun Hill to start season opener

The 49ers have made the right decision in their quarterback competition. Shaun Hill -- not Alex Smith (or rookie Nate Davis) -- will be the starter on opening day against the Cardinals on September 13th, per Matt Barrows of the Sacramento Bee.

"He has a commanding presence about him," [coach Mike] Singletary said [of Hill]. "When he gets in the huddle the guys have learned to rally around him."

When Singletary replaced the outgoing Mike Nolan mid-season last year, he benched J.T. O'Sullivan in favor of Hill, who was 5-3 as a starter.

In his 13 career NFL games, Hill has completed 64 percent of his passes for 2547 yards and 18 touchdowns. He has only thrown nine interceptions.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 10:59 PM | 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)

York confident about getting deal done for Crabtree

Despite a representative (and cousin) of diva wide receiver Michael Crabtree saying that the tenth-overall pick out of Texas Tech is willing to sit out the entire season, Niners team president Jed York believes that a deal with their top pick is going to happen.

"We'll get it done at some point," York told John Crumpacker of the San Francisco Chronicle before Friday's game. "They've had discussions. We'll get it done. We're all in."

Typically, rookies are slotted in based on the contracts of the picks before and after them. The Packers signed B.J. Raji, who was the ninth overall pick, to a five-year contract worth $28 million ($18 million of which is guaranteed).

However, the monkey wrench in the whole process is what Raiders owner Al Davis did. With the seventh overall pick, he selected Maryland's Darrius Heyward-Bey despite Crabtree being the top receiver on nearly every team's board.

Therefore, Crabtree, his agent Eugene Parker, his cousin, his barber's nephew's little league coach, etc. want a deal that exceeds that of Heyward Bey, who received a five-year deal worth $38.25 million ($23.5 million of which is guaranteed).

Crabtree, who won the Fred Biletnikoff in both of his collegiate seasons, posted gaudy numbers in Tech's spread offense. But he's coming off a foot injury (and surgery) and some question his ability to separate from cornerbacks at the next level.

In addition to Crabtree, Cincinnati's Andre Smith (sixth overall pick) and Buffalo's Aaron Maybin (11th overall pick) remain unsigned.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 08:45 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Crabtree willing to sit out for the year?

Former Texas Tech wide receiver Michael Crabtree, who was drafted by the 49ers with the tenth overall pick, still hasn't reported to training camp. And his advisor and cousin says that Crabtree may sit out the entire year.

"We are prepared to do it," [Crabtree's cousin David] Wells said. "Michael just wants fair market value. They took him with the 10th pick and you have Darrius Heyward-Bey [the seventh overall pick by the Oakland Raiders] getting $38 million? This week is crucial. Michael was one of the best players in the draft and he just wants to be paid like one of the best players. This week is very crucial."

Although Crabtree was widely-regarded as the top receiver in the draft, the Raiders made Darrius Heyward-Bey the first receiver drafted with the seventh overall pick.

Despite Crabtree's cousin blabbing to the media, his agent Eugene Parker tells ESPN that, "... I'm not a guy who makes threats. Nor am I a guy who negotiates in the public. I don't know where this came from but no such threat has been made."

If Parker is telling the truth, Crabtree needs to fire his idiot cousin as an adviser.

Otherwise, Crabtree is setting himself up to fail. After posting gaudy numbers in Tech's spread offense and having off-season surgery, there were already some folks questioning how his collegiate success (he's won two consecutive Fred Biletnikoff awards) will translate to the next level.

Sitting out a year certainly wouldn't be the ideal way to quiet those concerns.

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

49ers sign Dre' Bly

Earlier in the week, San Francisco 49ers cornerback Walt Harris tore his ACL and he will likely miss the 2009 season.

Today, cornerback Dre' Bly, who was released by the Denver Broncos, came to San Francisco for a visit.

Per John Crumpacker of the San Francisco Chronicle, he leaves with a contract.

"San Fran is a football town and has die-hard fans," Bly said in a conference call. "They have tradition. I'm glad to be part of it. I'm just fired up, man."

"I never been released. That was humbling to me," Bly said. "The fact that happened, I'm so hungry. ... At this point in my career, it's not about money, it's about the opportunity to come in and compete. I wanted the right opportunity to compete and play. San Fran is a great franchise, has won Super Bowls, it's a great city. There's a lot of upside."

Bly wasn't promised the starting job opposite cornerback Nate Clements. Instead, he will compete with Tarell Brown, who was the nickel back last year, and Shawntae Spencer.

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

Dre' Bly to visit with 49ers

The San Francisco 49ers didn't waste any time.

With Walt Harris likely out for the season after tearing his ACL at yesterday's practice, the Niners will host cornerback Dre' Bly on Thursday, according to Matt Maiocco of the Press Democrat.

Bly, who has been to two Pro Bowls, was released by the Denver Broncos this off-season.

The question is can the Niners and Bly, who has averaged $6.5 million per year over the past six seasons, agree on dollars and cents.

If they can, Bly will likely compete with Tarell Brown and Shawntae Spencer for the starting cornerback spot opposite of Nate Clements.

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

Walt Harris could miss 2009 season after tearing ACL

According to FoxSports.com, San Francisco 49ers cornerback Walt Harris could miss the entire 2009 NFL season. Harris, who will need surgery, has torn his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL).

Matt Maiocco of the Press Democrat says it is highly unlikely that Harris will return in 2009 although the Niners didn't rule it out. Harris is in the final year of his four-year contract with the team.

He suffered the injury at yesterday's practice in a collision with receiver Dominique Ziegler.

Harris, who will turn 35 years old in August, made the Pro Bowl in 2006 and has 35 career interceptions.

Tarell Brown, who was the team's nickel back, will likely start opposite Nate Clements while Harris is out.

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

Williams' stint with Niners over before it starts

The San Francisco 49ers have released safety Jimmy Williams, who signed with the team in January.

"Right now, it's just ... we just felt that it was the best thing to do," [49ers coach Mike] Singletary said. "It is a numbers game. It is one of those things. We feel good about the guys we have. We wanted to give it a look and see how it would work out, and just felt like, 'You know what, right now's the best time to make that decision.'"

The Falcons, who drafted Williams in the second round in 2006, released him in June 2008 due to weight problems.

Williams was out of the NFL last year.

Today was the first day of the Niners' organized team activities (OTAs) and Singletary wasn't pleased with today's performance. He summed up what went wrong in one word.

“Everything. Everything. I don’t even want to get started because I don’t have that much time,’’ Singletary said.

The Niners signed seventh-round safety Curtis Taylor to a four-year contract and Singletary says that the team is "very interested in keeping" safety Mark Roman, who has been granted permission to explore a trade.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 06:41 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Does Peppers to Niners make sense?

According to Matt Barrows of the Sacramento Bee, the answer to that question is yes.

While Barrows doesn't know if the Niners are seriously considering such a move, he believes it would make sense.

Defensive end Julius Peppers, who was franchised by the Carolina Panthers, hasn't signed his franchise tender yet. When/if he does, he will earn a guaranteed salary of $16.683 million in 2009.

Peppers says he won't sign a long-term deal with Carolina since he would like to play in 3-4 scheme. The Panthers utilize a 4-3 scheme whereas the 49ers use a 3-4 scheme.

The Panthers and 49ers have already completed a trade within the past week. The 49ers sent their second- and fourth-round picks to Carolina in exchange for the Panthers' first-round pick next year. That trade leaves the Niners with two first-round picks in 2010 and the Panthers with none.

Carolina used that second-round pick to select Florida State's Everette Brown, a pass rusher that could eventually be Peppers' replacement in Carolina.

Per Barrows, the 49ers, who have the salary-cap space to sign Peppers to a long-term deal, could trade one of their two first-rounders and perhaps some other picks or players.

Peppers, who won't report to the Panthers' mini-camp, had 14 sacks in 2008, but he is 29 years old and wants out of Carolina. The 49ers finished tied for 16th in the league with 30 sacks as a team in 2008. Adding Peppers would significantly bolster their pass rush.

As Barrows says, the deal would make a lot of sense.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 08:25 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

And with the tenth-overall pick...

The San Francisco 49ers have selected Michael Crabtree, WR from Texas Tech.

Crabtree won the Fred Biletnikoff award the past two seasons, his only two in college, where he amassed monster numbers. In 2 seasons, Crabtree combined for 231 receptions, 3127 receiving yards and 41 TDs.

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

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 05:17 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

49ers give extensions to Haralson and Nedney

Per the San Francisco Chronicle, the 49ers have signed OLB Parys Haralson and kicker Joe Nedney to contract extensions.

Haralson, the 49ers' fifth-round pick in 2006, was signed to a four-year contract extension that will keep in San Francisco until 2013. Nedney was signed through the 2011 season.

“It’s outstanding," Singletary said of Haralson's contract extension. "Parys is only going to get better. He is the ultimate ‘blue-collar’ guy. He’ll give you all he has day in and day out. You give me 10 others just like Parys and we could win championships. I am very happy for him.”

Leading the Niners with eight sacks, Haralson was second in the NFC (and fifth in the NFL) in sacks among linebackers in 2008. His eight sacks were the most by a 49er since Andre Carter had 12.5 sacks in 2002.

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

Sweet sixteen for Isaac Bruce

Isaac Bruce, who led the San Francisco 49ers in receiving last year, will return for his 16th season in the NFL.

49ers coach Mike Singletary had asked Bruce to let the team know his status by April 1st. Bruce will earn a salary of $1.475 million and count $2 million towards the Niners' salary cap.

Bruce ranks fifth all-time in receptions (1,003) and second all-time in receiving yards (14,944). Bruce, who was drafted in the second round by the Rams in 1994, spent his entire career as part of the Greatest Show on Turf until last year.

His partner-in-crime in St. Louis, Torry Holt, has been released by the Rams.

In the off-season, the 49ers signed Brandon Jones from the Titans. Other potential starters at WR include Josh Morgan, Jason Hill, Arnaz Battle and Dominique Zeigler.

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

Niners add Marvel Smith, cut Jonas Jennings

The San Francisco 49ers have signed tackle Marvel Smith to a two-year contract worth $10.5 million.

To make room for Smith, the Niners cut tackle Jonas Jennings. In his four seasons with the Niners, Jennings started only 23 (out of a possible 64) games.

"I am blessed with the opportunity the Niners have given me to come back home and play," said Smith, an Oakland native.

Smith, the Steelers' second-round pick in 2000, spent the majority of last season on injured reserve. He will likely start at right tackle at their next mini-camp in May. Adam Snyder started at RT at their most recent mini-camp. Snyder will likely move back to guard.

The addition of Smith provides greater flexibility in the draft for the 49ers.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 12:14 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Singletary having hill built next to Niners practice fields

San Francisco 49ers coach Mike Singletary is "old school." So, it's only appropriate that the Hall of Fame linebacker has ordered 2,500 tons of dirt to make a hill adjacent to the team's practice facility.

When asked what he calls his creation, Singletary gave the same one-word response that Clubber Lang gave when he was asked for his prediction in Rocky III. In other words, "pain."

As Singletary points out, many players like Singletary himself, Walter Payton, Jerry Rice ran hills and that running hills "builds something that's kind of a mystery" that you can't get "in the weight room" or "on the track."

The hill isn't ready to be run yet, but Singletary ran his team through a grueling two-day workout and conditioning program Friday and Saturday. Although Singletary was considering ending Friday's workout early, the team wouldn't have it.

"Vernon was the first one to say, 'No, we're going to finish this,' and everybody else chimed in,'' Singletary said. "I think that says a lot about our team."

Many questioned his methods after Singletary's first game as coach when he publicly chewed out Vernon Davis and mooned his team at halftime of the same game. However, the team is buying in (or just really scared).

I've predicted year after year that the athletically-freakish Vernon Davis will break out. And year after year I've been wrong. Well, at the risk of sounding foolish (in other words, business as usual here at The Daily Blitz), I'm predicting a breakout year for Vernon Davis in 2009. And this time, I really mean it.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 03:24 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Isaac Bruce has "deadline" to decide

The San Francisco 49ers have given WR Isaac Bruce an "informal deadline" of April 1st to decide whether or not he'll return for another season.

Bruce isn't participating in the team's off-season workouts and Brandon Jones, who signed with the Niners three weeks ago, was in the flanker (Isaac Bruce's) position.

"When you've done the things that he's done, you just kind of sit back and weigh your options and try to figure it out,'' Singletary said. "He's still working out "... but he's just making sure he's fully committed when he comes back."

In 2008, Bruce led the team in receptions (61), receiving yards (835) and receiving TDs (7).

Bruce ranks second all-time on the receiving yards (14,944) list behind Jerry Rice and he ranks fifth all-time on the career receptions list (1003).

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

49ers, Alex Smith restructure contract

The San Francisco 49ers and QB Alex Smith have restructured his contract. Smith was due to earn $9.625 million and count $12.3 million against the salary cap in 2009, but terms of the restructured deal weren't disclosed.

If Smith didn't accept the paycut, which was offered to him while he was on his honeymoon, the Niners would have released him. But now he is under contract for 2 more seasons.

"Alex expressed a deep interest to remain with the team, and that feeling was mutual," said 49ers general manager Scot McCloughan.

After starting all 16 games in his second season (2006), Smith, who was selected #1 overall in 2005, has played in only 7 games in the past two seasons due to injuries and his differences with former coach Mike Nolan.

Success for QBs selected #1 overall have been hit or miss. The following QBs have been selected with the #1 overall pick in the past 10 drafts: Tim Couch (1999), Michael Vick (2001), David Carr (2002), Carson Palmer (2003), Eli Manning (2004), Alex Smith (2005) and JaMarcus Russell (2007). (Many expect the Detroit Lions, who have this year's #1 overall pick, to take QB Matthew Stafford.)

Smith will compete with Shaun Hill and Damon Huard, who was signed this off-season, for the starting job.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 09:07 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

49ers "not closing the door" on T.O.

Will Terrell Owens end up where he began?

It may not be likely, but the San Francisco 49ers, who drafted T.O. in the 3rd round of the 1996 NFL draft, have "not closed the door" on the possibility of pursuing the Owens.

Brian Murphy, co-host of the "Murph & Mac" morning show, "So official statement from the 49ers: 'Not closing the door?'"

"Correct," [49ers GM Scott] McCloughan said.

The 49ers signed Brandon Jones this off-season and he's currently the #1 WR on their depth chart. Talent-wise, however, T.O. would be a huge upgrade over Jones.

Owens, who played for the Niners from 1996 to 2003, has 951 career receptions, 14122 career receiving yards and 139 career receiving TDs.

Perhaps there are a few teams (New England and Pittsburgh as examples) that have coaches and leaders that could handle Owens. And if T.O. were on their team and out of line, they would most likely handle it behind the scenes.

But T.O. in San Fran with Mike Singletary? Who wouldn't love to see one of his "I'd-rather-play-with-10-people-and-just-get-penalized" rants directed towards T.O.? Even better if he's mooning him.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 12:50 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Are the Niners interested in Kurt Warner?

Are the San Francisco 49ers really interested in free-agent QB Kurt Warner?

Per Matt Maiocco of the Press Democrat, there have been conflicting reports from insiders. One league source has told him that there have been no serious discussions while another league source says the 49ers have a "legitimate shot" to pull off the coup.

That's narrows it down. It's like a weather forecaster saying it's either going to rain or it's not.

As Maiocco points out, the Niners have the cap room to make the deal happen. They are currently under the cap by roughly $25 million and have asked QB Alex Smith to take a paycut (on his honeymoon, nonetheless). Remember, it's just business.

Warner is looking to be paid in the range of a top 5 QB for at least 2 seasons. The average of the top 5 QBs would be in the $14.7 million range.

The Niners could use an upgrade at QB. But it doesn't make sense that the Niners would sign Warner to a lucrative contract since they will be instituting a run-first, run-second offense under Jimmy Raye, which coach Mike Singletary favors.

If the outgoing mad scientist Mike Martz, who coached Warner in St. Louis, and his pass-happy scheme remained in San Fran, it would make much more sense.

Or, if it were the Bucs or Lions that were interested in Warner, it would make more sense. Both teams were reportedly interested in Matt Cassel, who was traded to the Chiefs today.

To me, this is just a wise move by the agent in an attempt to apply a little pressure on the Cards.

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

Niners sign WR Brandon Jones

The San Francisco 49ers have added free-agent WR Brandon Jones, who spent the past 4 seasons with the Tennessee Titans. Jones and the Niners agreed on a 5-year, $16.5 million contract with $5.4 million guaranteed.

According to SI.com, 49ers GM Scott McCloughan says that Isaac Bruce, the team's leading WR last year, is "50-50" on returning. Bruce is contemplating retirement after the 49ers changed offensive coordinators in the off-season.

The 49ers replaced Mike Martz with Jimmy Raye, who will lead a run-heavy 49ers offense.

The other WRs on the 49ers roster include Josh Morgan, Jason Hill, Dominique Zeigler and Arnaz Battle.

In 2008, Jones finished 3rd on the Titans in receptions (41) and receiving yards (449).

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

49ers agree to deal with Spikes and others

The San Francisco 49ers have agreed to terms with LB Takeo Spikes on a 2-year contract. Spikes had 122 tackles and the only 49er who had more was Patrick Willis, for whom Spikes was a mentor.

"I feel like there is unfinished business," Spikes said a day after the season ended. "I never had any regret about any of the teams that I left. But I would have regret if I left this team. It's something I want to be a part of."

The Niners also signed FB Moran Norris and returner Allen Rossum. Norris returns to the Niners after being a training camp casualty in 2008 and his deal is reportedly worth $5 million over 3 years.

Rossum is one of the top returners in the league. Rossum was 6th in kick return average (26.8) and 2nd in punt return average (14.9).

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

Niners ask honeymooning Smith to take pay cut

The San Francisco 49ers have asked that QB Alex Smith, who was the #1 overall pick in 2005, to take a pay cut. The team is in contact with Smith's agent Tom Condon while Smith is on his honeymoon.

He is currently scheduled to earn $9.625 million this season and count $12.3 million against the salary cap.

In essence, the options for Smith are that he (a) take a pay cut and remain with the 49ers or (b) don't take a pay cut, and get cut.

"For us to ask him to restructure, that's kind of a shot," general manager Scot McCloughan said of Smith. "He is under contract for two more years and for us to ask him to take a paycut ... it's kind of a blow to the ego."

Shawn Hill, who started 10 games in 2008, is the team's starter, but coach Mike Singletary and McCloughan have said there will be an open competition at QB.

Smith has a career QB rating of 63.5 in 32 games (he missed all of last year). He has thrown 19 career TDs and 31 career INTs.

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

Niners just say no to Vick

Although Mike Singletary didn't explicitly state he was interested in Michael Vick, he left open the possibility of Michael Vick becoming a 49er (after becoming a free man) by not ruling it out.

Vick, who is scheduled to be released from prison on July 20th, is being shopped by the Atlanta Falcons, who currently hold the rights to the player.

However, the San Francisco 49ers have clarified their position.

"The 49ers are not interested in Michael Vick," said a team spokesman Tuesday evening.

So, add San Fran to the list of teams that are not interested in Vick. The others that have publicly expressed they are not interested are Tampa Bay, Detroit and the NY Jets.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 06:34 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Singletary doesn't put Niners on Anti-Vick list

Pro Football Talk created the "Anti-Vick List" to track teams that are not interested in the services of Michael Vick, who is being shopped by the Atlanta Falcons. Currently, 4 teams are on the list: Falcons, Jets, Lions and Bucs.

49ers coach Mike Singletary didn't rule out the possibility of Vick joining the team.

“I’m not going to say I’m open or closed,” Singletary said. ...we have not talked about it at this point in great detail...I think right now we really need to look at the two guys we have. If everything works out with Alex and he’s back, we need to look at that and go as far as we can go with that. The whole Michael Vick thing, we have to sit down and talk about that. But for right now, we have enough on our plates.”

Vick is scheduled to be released from prison on July 20th. He hasn't played a game since the 2006 season and is currently suspended by the league.

Shawn Hill, who started the final 9 games of the season, finished with an 87.5 QB rating, 2046 yards, 13 TDs and 8 INTs in 2008.

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

Niners' "State of the Franchise" address

Mike Nolan, who was dismissed mid-season as the 49ers' coach, said that Mike Singletary was the right man for the job. And although he was right, Singletary got off to a shaky start in his first week on the job.

In the press conference after the game, Singletary made an example of TE Vernon Davis. Then, later in the week, it was revealed (no pun intended) that Singletary mooned his team at halftime during that game.

Last night, Singletary and members of the Niners' front office held a "State of the Franchise" address made to season ticket holders. And, as you might have expected, Singletary stole the show.

Singletary expects the team to play smash-mouth football and be "physical with an F." He also talked about the difference between a "dream" and a "vision."

"When I look around the NFL, I'm amazed by how many people have a dream and how few have a vision," he said. The difference, he said, is that a dream ends up being passive, accommodating disappointment. A vision, he said, "captures the imagination. A vision is something that consumes you like a fire, won't let you eat, won't let you sleep until that vision comes to pass."

The Niners finished 2008 with a 7-9 record after starting 2-5 under Nolan. The question is how soon will Singletary eat and sleep?

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 07:41 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Niners LB Green arrested in Texas

San Francisco 49ers LB Roderick Green, who is about to become an unrestricted free agent, was arrested in his hometown in Texas after being "uncooperative" during a traffic stop.

He was charged with reckless driving, unlawfully carrying a weapon, possession of marijuana and interfering with the duties of a police officer. All charges are misdemeanors.

Last season, Green had 12 tackles and 3.5 sacks in 13 games with the Niners. In his career (3 seasons with Niners and 2 seasons with Ravens), Green has 44 tackles and 12 sacks in 54 games.

Green was a fifth-round draft pick in 2004 by the Baltimore Ravens.

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

Raiders pick up Gradkowski on waivers

The Cleveland Browns cut QBs Ken Dorsey and Bruce Gradkowski on Monday.

The San Francisco 49ers put in a waiver request for Gradkowski. But so did the Raiders, who had a higher waiver priority.

Gradkowski will compete with Andrew Walter to back up JaMarcus Russell, the #1 overall draft pick in 2007. (See all #1 overall draft picks.)

In his 3-year career, Gradkowski, the Bucs 6th-round draft pick in 2006, has thrown for 1817 yards, 9 TDs and 13 INTs in 19 games.

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

49ers cut Bunta-Cain, Lewis; Jennings next?

The San Francisco 49ers have released OLB Tully Bunta-Cain and FS Keith Lewis.

After spending 4 seasons with the Patriots, Bunta-Cain signed a $8.9 million contract with the Niners in 2007. But he took a substantial paycut last off-season and finished 2008 with only 1/2 sack and 18 tackles in 12 games.

The 2 moves will save the 49ers $3.475 million in salary-cap space.

The Niners are expected to cut OT Jonas Jennings, who is due to earn a base salary of $4.2 million in 2009.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 08:31 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)

Tony Richardson might follow Raye to SF

When asked about the San Francisco 49ers lack of a true fullback, Jimmy Raye, the new offensive coordinator, told Matt Barrows of the Sacramento Bee that they "might need a big, square-backed guy who can go in and bloody some noses."

Tony Richardson could be that "square-backed guy." Richardson has played for Raye with the Chiefs and the Jets.

"That's the one thing I've learned about the National Football League -- you never say never," Richardson said. "Free agency starts in February, so you never know. Never say never."

According to Barrows, Richardson, who becomes a free agent in February, would like to play 2 more years.

RIchardson was one of several factors that helped Thomas Jones lead the AFC in rushing including an improved offensive line and QB that could stretch a defense. If Richardson follows Raye to the Bay area, that's a plus for Frank Gore's production in 2009.

(Plus, Raye coached the Rams' offense when Eric Dickerson rushed for the NFL record 2,105 yards in 1984.)

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

Jimmy Raye to run 49ers offense

The San Francisco 49ers are going to hire Jimmy Raye, who was the Jets RB coach last season, as their next offensive coordinator.

He has been an OC with 7 teams - first with the Rams and most recently with the Raiders ('04-'05).

"I've known Jimmy Raye for over 20 years and have always had the highest regard for his football expertise, his ability to teach, his ability to communicate," Turner said when he took over in Oakland.

Scott Linehan, who turned down the Niners offer and accepted the Lions offer, and Hue Jackson, Ravens QB coach, were the only 2 candidates to get a second interview.

But Raye didn't need a second. He has landed the job after one interview.

Raye first became an NFL coach with the 49ers as their WR coach in 1977.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 07:13 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

San Fran possible landing spot for Vick?

The NFL Network's Adam Schefter has pointed out that those interviewing with the San Francisco 49ers for the vacant offensive coordinator position have ties to imprisoned ex-Falcons QB Michael Vick.

Dan Reeves was the Falcons head coach in 2001, when the Falcons drafted Vick, and Hue Jackson coached Vick in Atlanta as well. Both men interviewed with Niners coach Mike Singletary and GM Scot McCloughan on Friday. The Niners have even expressed some interest in Mike Johnson, who used to coach the Falcons WRs.

Schefter went on to point out that the 49ers recently signed DB Jimmy Williams, who played with Vick in Atlanta and lives in the next town over from Vick in Virginia.

Schefter does say it may all be a coincidence even though there isn't a team more in need of a QB than the 49ers. And David Teel of the Daily Press mentions that San Francisco is a "bastion of liberalism."

But can you see the disciplinarian coach welcoming in such a troubled QB? I can't.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 04:15 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Dan Reeves, Hue Jackson interview for Niners job

The San Francisco 49ers interviewed Dan Reeves, who has been out of coaching for 5+ years, for the offensive coordinator vacancy. The Niners fired Mike Martz at the end of the season.

Friday Coach Mike Singletary and GM Scot McCloughlan also interviewed Hue Jackson, the Ravens' QB coach. Jackson was offensive coordinator for the Redskins in 2003 and for the Falcons in 2007.

Within the past week, they offered the job to Scott Linehan, who turned it down for "personal reasons" and then accepted the same position with the Lions yesterday.

On Tuesday, Singletary and McCloughan interviewed ex-BC Eagles head coach Jeff Jagodzinski, who was fired for interviewing for the NY Jets head coaching job.

Previously, the Niners have also interviewed Colts WR coach Clyde Christensen, ex-Browns OC Rob Chudzinski and Broncos Rick Dennison, who will remain with Denver.

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

Jimmy Williams to be Niners FS

The San Francisco 49ers signed Jimmy Williams, who sat out all of 2008, to play free safety.

Williams was the Falcons 2nd-round draft pick in 2006 as the Falcons traded up to select him. (See complete Falcons draft history.)

The Falcons cut Williams in June 2008 as Williams showed up to workouts weighing 230 pounds.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 06:54 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Linehan: No to Niners, Yes to Lions

Before his unsuccessful head coaching stint in St. Louis began in 2006, Scott Linehan was a successful offensive coordinator. He was offensive coordinator in Minnesota from 2002-2004 and in Miami in 2005.

In 2004, he coordinated the Vikings offense in which Daunte Culpepper, who signed a 2-year contract with the Lions, threw for 4,717 yards and 39 TDs.

Now Scott Linehan will coordinate a Culpepper offense again (at least, for now). The Detroit Lions have signed Scott Linehan to be their offensive coordinator.

The Lions have Jon Kitna (who will likely be released), Drew Stanton and Drew Henson on their rosters as well so it's uncertain if Culpepper will return in 2009 as the Lions would owe him a $2.5 million roster bonus in February. The Lions have the #1 overall draft pick with which they are projected to take either a QB like Georgia's Matthew Stafford or a LT like Alabama's Andre Smith.

Within the past week, Linehan turned down an offer from the San Francisco 49ers to be OC citing "personal reasons." He said his oldest son had been in 7 schools in 8 years.

Since Detroit is 550 miles from St. Louis, he'll either have to put his son in an 8th different school or be away from his family.

The Lions' offense was awful in 2009 finishing 27th in scoring offense (16.8 ppg) and 30th in total offense (268.3 ypg).

But they do have 2 bright spots on offense - 2nd-year WR Calvin Johnson, who finished 5th in receiving yards (1331) and tied for 1st in TDs (12), and rookie RB Kevin Smith, who rushed for 976 yards and 8 TDs.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 08:53 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Linehan turns down Niners job due to "personal" reasons

Scott Linehan, who was fired mid-season by the St. Louis Rams, was offered the San Francisco 49ers offensive coordinator position on Thursday. Yesterday he turned down the offer.

"The job itself was outstanding," Linehan said. "It was very, very hard (to decline)...It's all personal from my standpoint. It's a little more complicated when you have a wife and three kids."

"My eighth-grader has been in seven different schools since he started elementary school," Linehan said. "Some people might say that's child abuse. I'm always the one who seems to be screwing it up. We chose coaching."

The 49ers will continue their search as Linehan says that he'd like to find an OC job this year.

"There's nothing substantial," he said. "There've been contacts, but nothing serious like San Francisco...There's some other things I've got to explore first. I might be kicking myself that I wasn't able to pull the trigger with this thing."

As Kevin Lynch of the Niner Insider points out, if Linehan wants to coach this season, unless it's with the Chiefs, Linehan will have to move his family.

The 49ers interviewed 3 other candidates, 2 of which are still available. It's unclear whether they will reconsider Rob Chudzinski (former Browns' OC) or Clyde Christensen (Colts WR coach).

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 04:58 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Mike Singletary job interview over

SF 49ers head coach Mike Singletary had a Hall of Fame career as a MLB with the Chicago Bears.

But he's come a long way in his head coaching career that began with a blasting of his team and especially Vernon Davis during his first post-game interview. A couple days later, it was revealed that he mooned his team at halftime of that game to illustrate the point that the team was embarrassing.

Since that 34-13 loss to the Seahawks, the Niners have a winning record (4-3) and it's being reported that Singletary will be offered the coaching job after the Redskins game. The Rooney Rule prevents teams from offering interim coaches the job before the season ends.

With a Singletary promotion, Mike Martz is likely out as offensive coordinator. Martz' pass-first system doesn't jive with Singletary's control-the-ball style. However, Singletary hasn't confirmed or denied the rumor of Martz' status.

"I just really want to focus on Washington, and everything else will take care of itself," Singletary said when asked if Martz will be fired. "It will happen soon enough."

If Martz does get the axe, the Niners will be looking for their 7th offensive coordinator in 7 seasons.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 02:15 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)

NFC Playoff Picture

Earlier in the week, we took a look at the AFC playoff picture. Since then, the Colts have beaten the Jaguars to clinch the 5 seed in the AFC. That means that the Ravens and the non-division winners out of the Jets, Patriots and Dolphins will battle it out for the 6th seed in the AFC.

Let's shift our focus to the NFC. With 2 weeks to play, here are the current seedings in the NFC:

1. New York Giants (11-3)
2. Carolina Panthers (11-3)
3. Minnesota Vikings (9-5)
4. Arizona Cardinals (8-6)
5. Dallas Cowboys (9-5)
6. Atlanta Falcons (9-5)

NFC East:

New York Giants (11-3): With a win tomorrow night against the Panthers, the Giants lock up home-field advantage. If the Giants lose and the Vikings lose to the Falcons, the Giants will clinch the #2 seed and first-round bye. If the Giants lose and the Vikings win, the teams face off in Minnesota next week for the #2 seed.

Dallas Cowboys (9-5): The Cowboys are in as the 5 seed if they win out against the Ravens and Eagles. The Falcons and Bucs have identical records to the Cowboys and the Eagles trail by a half-game. The Bears trail the Cowboys by one game.

Philadelphia Eagles (8-5-1): The Eagles trail the Cowboys, Falcons and Bucs by a half-game. They face the Cowboys next week. If they win out, they are in provided that the Falcons and/or Bucs lose (or tie) at least one of their remaining 2 games.

Washington Redskins (7-7): While the Redskins are not mathematically-eliminated, they need much help with 2 weeks remaining. They need the Eagles, Bucs and Falcons to all lose their remaining games and the Bears to lose at least 1 game and win their 2 remaining games.

Continue reading "NFC Playoff Picture" »

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 05:35 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Frank Gore to miss Miami game

The San Francisco 49ers are playing well since their bye week. And to think of everyone that criticized Mike Singletary for mooning his team at halftime in his first game as head coach. The Niners are 3-2 since their bye.

Today Frank Gore is going to miss the game in Miami with a sprained left ankle. DeShaun Foster will start in Gore's place.

Gore has been struggling in the past 3 weeks. During that span, he rushed for only 144 yards on 52 carries. That is an average of 2.8 yards per carry. Foster hasn't done much better - 35 yards on 16 carries as Gore's replacement last week.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 11:45 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

A look at the NFC playoff picture

As I did with every AFC team, we will take a look at all teams playoff aspirations for the NFC.

Here are the current NFC standings:

1. New York Giants (11-1)
2. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (9-3)
3. Minnesota Vikings (7-5)
4. Arizona Cardinals (7-5)
5. Carolina Panthers (9-3)
6. Atlanta Falcons (8-4)

NFC East:

New York Giants (11-1): The Super Bowl champs are clearly (and unfortunately as a Cowboys fan) the team to beat in the NFC/NFL even without Plax. The Giants schedule is tough (PHI, at DAL, CAR, at MIN), but I can't see the Bucs/Panthers making up a 2-game deficit.

Dallas Cowboys (8-4): Entering the season, the Cowboys were the consensus pick in the NFC to reach the Super Bowl. Now with a month to go and perhaps the league's most challenging schedule (at PIT, NYG, BAL, at PHI), they would be on the outside looking in as the 7th team even though they share the same record with the Falcons.

Washington Redskins (7-5): The Redskins have stumbled lately losing 4 of their last 5. With the NFC South likely to have (at least) 1 team make playoffs, the 'Skins are fighting an uphill battle. If the 'Skins can beat the Ravens this week, they finish with a relatively easy final 3 games (at CIN, PHI, at SF).

Philadelphia Eagles (6-5-1): After bouncing back against the Cardinals on Thanksgiving, the Eagles need to bounce back against division rivals. They are 0-3 vs NFC East on season, but get 3 more shots in remaining 4 weeks.

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

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 12:47 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Jonas Jennings to IR (again)

The San Francisco 49ers have placed Tackle Jonas Jennings on Injured Reserve. In fact, this is the third time in four seasons that Jennings has landed on IR. He has played a total of 23 (of 58) games with the 49ers.

Jennings had surgery on his dislocated shoulder on Tuesday.

“Everybody is built different, and some guys are more injury-prone than others,” McCloughan said. “But there’s no reason why he can’t come back from this once rehab is over and play again. There’s no reason whatsoever.”

The 49ers signed Jacob Bender, 6th-round pick by the Jets last year, from the Patriots practice squad to replace Jennings.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 07:03 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Steven Jackson - out vs Niners

In the Jim Haslett era (albeit an interim one), the Rams are 2-0 when Steven Jackson gets 20+ carries. And 0-3 when he doesn't. Since Jackson has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the 49ers, there's a good chance the Rams will lose another.

"I really didn't think I would miss a game, let alone two or three," Jackson said. "For it to linger like this, it really begins to make you wonder what's really going on."

Antonio Pittman should get the bulk of carries in Jackson's absence. Pittman has 129 yards on 43 carries for an average of 3.0 ypc.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 09:58 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Mike Singletary bears all

Everyone (unless you've been living under a rock) has heard about or seen Mike Singletary's post-game interview following the 49ers embarrassing 34-13 ass-whooping by the Seattle Seahawks. If you missed it, he said this about Vernon Davis:

"I will not tolerate players that think it's about them," Singletary said. "We cannot make decisions that cost the team and then come off to the sideline and be nonchalant.

"I'd rather play with 10 people and just get penalized, rather than play with 11 when I know that right now that person is not sold out to be part of this team.

Some think that a public forum might not have been the appropriate outlet for the rant. But what he did at halftime was hilarious. He mooned his team.

"I used my pants to illustrate that we were getting our tails whipped on Sunday and how humiliating that should feel for all of us. I needed to do something to dramatize my point; there were other ways I could have done it but I think this got the message across. I am excited about having the team back at practice on Monday so we can get back to work."

What's interesting is Vernon Davis, after getting mooned by his head coach at halftime, thought it would be a good idea to slap Brian Russell in the head. If he (the team) received that halftime talk, he should have known that he (and the team) was on thin ice.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 05:33 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Singletary names Hill starter after bye week

Mike Martz was a supporter of J.T. O'Sullivan, who has been benched by new head coach Mike Singletary. Singletary benched O'Sullivan in favor of Shaun Hill during yesterday's game and has now named Hill the starter when the team returns from their bye week.

"When you look at J.T.'s capabilities and the arm strength and all of those things, you'd say, 'Hey, maybe that guy gives us the best chance to win,'" Singletary said, according to the Associated Press. "But if you look around the league, there are guys that are very talented, very smart ... but they can't play quarterback. J.T. has done a good job. He's just been inconsistent."

In 4 games (3 last year and 1 this year), Hill has a QB Rating of 101.5 and has completed 69 of 102 passes. He has also thrown 6 TDs and, more importantly, only 1 INT.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 09:08 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Mike Singletary makes Vernon Davis an example

Mike Singletary began his head coaching era with an embarrassing loss to the Seattle Seahawks 34-13. Afterwards, he apologized.

As the Hall of Fame MLB for the Bears 4-6 defense, Mike Singletary is tough and expects perfection. When he sees an undisciplined player commit a stupid penalty, he reacts like this:

"I will not tolerate players that think it's about them," Singletary said. "We cannot make decisions that cost the team and then come off to the sideline and be nonchalant.

"I'd rather play with 10 people and just get penalized, rather than play with 11 when I know that right now that person is not sold out to be part of this team.

"I told him that he would do a better job for us right now taking a shower and coming back and watching the game than going out on the field."

Vernon Davis, drafted 6th overall in the 2006 NFL Draft, is a physical freak of nature. After catching 52 passes for 509 yards, I predicted Davis would have a break-out season in 2008. Instead, he has struggled in 2008. He has 16 receptions in 8 games with 0 TDs.

But should Singletary have reacted this way? Should he have addressed this with the media?

In general, I believe coaches/players should keep these things in house. However, considering the state of the San Francisco 49ers, I think Singletary wanted to show the rest of the team that you are either part of the solution or you're part of the problem.

This is the first step in creating a culture of accountability and discipline in San Francisco.

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

Mike Nolan 3rd coach fired (so far this year)

The San Francisco 49ers have fired head coach Mike Nolan and replaced him with Mike Singletary despite initial reports that Nolan would be fired after the Seattle Seahawks game this Sunday. The 49ers have a bye after the Seahawks game.

The 49ers are 18-37 under Mike Nolan. Singletary joined the 49ers coaching staff in 2005.

Earlier in the year, Scott Linehan of the Rams and Lane Kiffin of the Raiders were fired. My guess is Nolan won't be the last to go this year.

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

NFC West Preview

ARIZONA CARDINALS
Prediction: 9-7 | Team Home | Team Forum | Team Schedule

Overview:Quick...who had the most 2nd-half passing TDs in the NFL in 2007? Tom Brady? Peyton Manning? Tony Romo? None of those. It was Kurt Warner. The Arizona Cardinals have the best offense in the NFC West. Kurt Warner was finally given the starting QB job that he deserved. Larry Fitzgerald and Anquan Boldin are the best 2 WRs in the NFC West and their RB duo of Edgerrin James and rookie Tim Hightower is solid. The defense is underrated with Karlos Dansby, Adrian Wilson and rookie Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie. The Cardinals have only had one winning season in the past 23 seasons, but 2008 will make it 2 in 24 years.

Interesting Stat/Fact: The Cardinals were the most penalized team in the NFL (137 penalties for 1,128 yards) in 2007.

Strength of Schedule: 2007 opponents were 119-137 (.465)

2007 Playoff Teams on Schedule (6): at Washington, vs Dallas, at Seattle, vs NY Giants, at New England, vs Seattle

# of Wins Past 3 Years: 18 wins (6.0 per season)

SEATTLE SEAHAWKS
Prediction: 8-8 | Team Home | Team Forum | Team Schedule

Overview: The Seattle Seahawks have won the NFC West every year from 2004-2007. Can the 'Hawks extend it one more season in what will be Mike Holmgren's final season? The Arizona Cardinals have the best offense in the division although I think the Seahawks have the best defense. With the injuries at WR (Bobby Engram, Deion Branch, Ben Obomanu) and the worst running attack in the NFC West with Maurice Morris and Julius Jones, I expect the Seahawks offense to sputter at times. The Seahawks have enough to challenge for a wildcard berth and even the division title, but I think their streak is over at 4 years.

Interesting Stat/Fact: Unlike the Cardinals, the Seahawks were the least penalized team in the NFL (59 penalties for 428 yards) in 2007.

Strength of Schedule: 2007 opponents were 122-134 (.477)

2007 Playoff Teams on Schedule (6): at NY Giants, vs Green Bay, at Tampa Bay, vs Washington, at Dallas, vs New England

# of Wins Past 3 Years: 32 wins (10.7 per season)

ST. LOUIS RAMS
Prediction: 5-11 | Team Home | Team Forum | Team Schedule

Overview: Steven Jackson and Rams management engaged in an expensive game of chicken this pre-season, but Jackson has re-joined the Rams with a new deal. Without Jackson, the Rams would have been really awful. With Jackson, the Rams will be awful (not really awful). However, Marc Bulger and the Rams passing attack haven't been the same in the pre-season and last year as they once have been. In fact, it's not even close. Chris Long was a good draft pick at #2 and he will help make the defense stronger, but the defense still has a lot of weaknesses. And the Rams won't be able to put up enough points to compensate. It will be another rough year for the Rams.

Interesting Stat/Fact: Marc Bulger went from 24 TDs and 8 INTs in 2006 to 11 TDs and 15 INTs in 2007. Will it be the 2007 or the 2006 Bulger in 2008?

Strength of Schedule: 125-131 (.488)

2007 Playoff Teams on Schedule (6): vs NY Giants, at Seattle, at Washington, vs Dallas, at New England, vs Seattle

# of Wins Past 3 Years: 17 wins (5.7 per season)

SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS
Prediction: 4-12 | Team Home | Team Forum | Team Schedule

Overview: Mike Martz is widely-regarded as an offensive genius. But can he work his magic with the lack of weapons in the Niners' passing game? The 49ers start Isaac Bruce and Bryant Johnson at WR and J.T. O'Sullivan at QB. TE Vernon Davis has a ton of potential although TEs don't typically put up big numbers in a Martz' offense. That being said, Davis has the potential to be used as a WR. With Davis' TE size and WR speed, the possibilities are scary for DBs. Will Frank Gore be used similarly to how Marshall Faulk was used? There are a lot of question marks on offense although the defense should be healthy and solid. How many games will they lose 9-6? I think too many.

Interesting Stat/Fact: 26 - # of career pass attempts for J.T. O'Sullivan, who replaces #1 overall draft pick Alex Smith

Strength of Schedule: 124-132 (.484)

2007 Playoff Teams on Schedule (6): at Seattle, vs New England, at NY Giants, vs Seattle, at Dallas, vs Washington

# of Wins Past 3 Years: 16 wins (5.3 per season)

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

Vernon Davis: This year's Jason Witten?

Matthew Berry of ESPN says this in his Players I Love / Players I Hate column: "My friend Merril Hoge tells me Davis can't run a route to save his life. Stats seem to back him up. And the Martz offense doesn't use a tight end all that much. Too much hype, too little production..." You probably aren't surprised that Davis falls on his "Players I Hate" side.

Right now, Vernon Davis appears in the 8-10 range on most site's positional rankings for TEs. Last season, I projected (and correctly for a change) that Jason Witten would finish in the Top 2 of fantasy TEs and that it would be smart to target him as a possible trade target before others realized his true value. I think Vernon Davis will enjoy the same fate in 2008.

Mike Martz sums up why:

"I don't know if anyone in the league can run like he can at that position," Martz, the 49ers' first-year offensive coordinator, said of Davis. "He gets down the field so fast. I don't know who beats him in a footrace."
Martz said none of his offensive players worked harder this spring than Davis, who was on the field before practice started and hung around after it ended to hone his receiving skills.

With the lack of a big-time WR (Bryant Young, Isaac Bruce, Ashley Lelie, Arnaz Battle are the top 4 WRs), I expect Martz to utilize Davis like and as a WR. If he's working as hard as Martz says on his receiving skills, this 3rd-year TE might reach full stride in 2008. And, once he does, there's no stopping him.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 09:51 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

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