It's never too early to talk Fantasy Football, right?

The hiring of Jim Zorn drastically changes the landscape of fantasy football for certain Washington Redskins players.  Most noticeably: Clinton Portis, Santana Moss, Jason Campbell and essentially the Redskins defense.

Zorn will move the ‘Skins from a smash-mouth/Air-Coryall mix to a traditional West Coast offense.  The biggest immediate benefactor of this move is running back Clinton Portis.  Gibbs required Portis to bulk up to 215-220 lbs., nearly 10-15 lbs. over his playing weight during his days in Denver.  Zorn will allow Portis to get back down to his most successful weight of 205 lbs. and allowing more opportunities for Portis to get out ahead in open space and wreck havoc in the open-field.  It's hard to gather how Zorn is going to use Portis specifically-looking at the Seahawks offense, there are few similarities in personal between the two teams.  Alexander is a completely different back than Portis is, both in a physical sense and his running style.  Also to keep in mind is how Zorn might use Mike Sellers, who isn't as good a blocker as Strong was but is a stronger runner and pass-catcher out of the backfield.

Another big winner in the Zorn hiring are the ‘Skins wide receivers.  Santana Moss and Antwaan Randle-El excel in the open field.  After Campbell took over for Brunell, Gibbs and Redskins coordinator Al Saunders tried to use Santana completely different than the way that worked.  They sent Moss on a lot of go routes, using his pure speed to try and get behind the corners and safeties.  While that worked, it's not Santana's game.  He excels on short routes and using his speed to make the first person miss.  Randle-El plays the same way.  Watching the ‘Skins play in 2005, you would have seen a lot of screen passes to Moss and allowing him to get to the second level.  Zorn will use both of these guys to get them in the open field and allow them to make people miss, while still taking shots down the field when necessary.  Outside of DJ Hackett, the ‘Skins receiving corps mirrors the ‘Hawks pass-catchers verbatim.

Jason Campbell took a huge leap in year three.  He will take an even greater leap in year four.  Zorn specializes in quarterback play and has already begun the process of lessoning the burden on Campbell.  Immediately, Zorn started pointing out the flaws in the center-to-quarterback transaction-making sure Rabach kept his behind in the air so Jason wouldn't have to bend down as low (if you haven't seen Campbell take a snap-make sure you do.  Being 6'5, his knees are almost even with his chest).  Also, Zorn has spoken of not touching Jason's throwing motion.  In the WCO, it's all about timing.  Five-step drops and get rid of the ball.  Jason's windup is so long but as Zorn says is due to his long arms.  All these things add up to more confidence and minor details which will allow Jason to succeed as a quarterback in the NFL.

No big fantasy names are inactive here, although if there is any injury during the game, expect Norv Turner to start pulling the Chargers' stars.

Inactive for the Chargers: CB Paul Oliver, FB Lorenzo neal, LB Anthony Waters, DT Jamal Williams, WR Malcolm Floyd, TE Scott Chandler, LB Marques Harris, QB Charlie Whitehurst.

Inactive for the Raiders:  S Rashad Baker, T Mark Wilson, T Mario Henderson, T Jonathan Palmer, LB Jon Alston, DT Josh Shaw, QB Andrew Walter.

Most significant fantasy impact

None.

Players to Rethink

RB Dominic Rhodes - With San Diego's big run-stopper, Jamal Williams, out and rookie QB JaMarcus Russell making his first start, Rhodes and RB LaMont Jordan could see a lot of carries, especially when San Diego's backups come in.

No real big fantasy names declared inactive in this matchup, so if your fantasy finale depends on a player from one of these teams,  you should be in good shape.

Inactive for the Broncos: FB Mike Bell, DE Larry Birdine, TE Daniel Graham, LB Ian Gold, QB Darrell Hackney, DT Isaac Snell, WR Brandon Stokley, DE Paul Carrington.

Inactive for the Vikings:  CB Antoine Winfield, LB Vinny Ciurciu, S Mike Doss, QB Kelly Holcomb, OT Chase Johnson, WR Sidney Rice, FB Naufahu Tahi, LB Dontarrious Thomas.

Most significant fantasy impact

WR Brandon Stokley - 635 rec. yards, 5 rec. TDs, (90 fantasy points*).

* Denotes points in standard scoring leagues. 

Players to Rethink

RB Travis Henry/Selvin Young - The Vikings' big defensive tackle, Pat Williams, is active.  That will make life tough for the Henry/Young duo as Minnesota looks to secure a playoff spot.

TE Tony Scheffler - TE Daniel Graham is inactive, meaning that Scheffler should see a lot of passes come his way.

There is an old saying “What you don’t know won’t hurt you”.  Obviously whoever said that never played fantasy sports.  In fantasy sports, not knowing can kill your prospects of winning.   And having the best players does not assure one of a victory.  This is especially true if your fantasy league is planning its championship game this weekend.  The reality is that having the best players can be a detriment to winning this weekend.  With this being the final weekend of the regular season, many teams who are playoff bound will be limiting the play of their starters and other key players. This is beyond those who cannot play due to injury – see NFL Week 17 48 Hour Report for the injury update. Teams will be  sitting or limiting playing time for players who otherwise would be playing.  Even players who are listed as probable on the injury report may not play this week.  And    That is one reason many leagues now conclude their fantasy season in week 16. Here is a look at some of the players you might be planning to start this week. Who is in, and who is out for week 17. Owners beware.

I have searched the net and here is what information I have discovered. If a game has no information, that indicates I have not found anything out of the normal for that game. Business as usual. Check the injury updates and the weather but expect the normal players to play.  Check the inactive list for today.  Example:  Green Bay has listed Donald Driver, Greg Jennings and TE Lee all as inactive for today's game!

Saturday

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New England
NY Giants

Expect the Patriots to start their normal starters.  However don’t be surprised that if the game is in hand that the starters are pulled early.  The only reason they are playing tonight (the starters) is because of the undefeated season, and the opportunity for Brady and Moss to set some NFL records.  A risky move that backfires on the Patriots if either Brady or Moss gets injured in what is otherwise a meaningless game.

The Giants have indicated they may sit some of their starters in this one.  However Plaxico has practiced this week for just the 2nd or 3rd time since early season due to his injured ankle.  Also Bradshaw has not practiced which means Jacobs may play more than the Giants would desire.


Sunday 12/30

 

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Buffalo
Philadelphia

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San Diego
Oakland

Look for LT and Gates to sit early.  3rd seed is on the line however so expect the starters to play until they have a lead.  Sproles may be the best fantasy value for the Chargers.

For the Raiders, they plan to play Russell at QB

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Minnesota
Denver

Minnesota needs a win to keep playoff hopes alive.  They will play all of their normal starters who can play.  They also need the Redskins to lose against a Dallas team that has no reason to risk their starters.

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St. Louis
Arizona

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Dallas
Washington

Look for most of the starters to sit early in this one for Dallas.  TO is already out.  Romo has a sore thumb and should sit the second half for sure.  He will probably start since Glenn is getting his first playing time of the season.  But don’t look for him to play more than a half.  All Dallas starters are risky plays since a loss means nothing to Dallas.  Look for the starters to rest at least the second half.

Washington needs a win to advance to the playoffs.  They will play their normal starters who are able to go.  

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Cincinnati
Miami

Rudi Johnson will not play.  That makes Kenny Watson a good play. 

Cleo Lemons is listed as the starter at QB for Miami.

 

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Tennessee
Indianapolis

Marvin Harrison will start but how much will he play?  The same question applies to all the starters for Indy as well as key backups such as Keith.  Look for Indy to play the starters maybe a half.  Look for Addai, Keith, Wayne and Peyton to all get plenty of rest this game.  Gonzalez is questionable to play.

Tennessee will be business as usual as they are fighting for the final playoff berth.  They need a win.

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San Francisco
Cleveland

If you planned to start Shaun Hill at QB this week, change your plans.  Shaun has been having back spasms all week. Chris Weinke will start Sunday's game for the 49ers. "Chris Weinke will start in the game," coach Mike Nolan reported to Sports Network. "The backup will be Drew Olson. The third quarterback will come out of either Arnaz  or Michael Robinson. Hopefully, we'll just stay with Chris Weinke there for the entire game."

Cleveland is fighting with Tennessee for the final playoff berth.  They will have all available starters playing.

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Seattle
Atlanta

Seattle has said it will play its starters.  But if Seattle gets a lead, look for them to get an early exit.  

Atlanta should play its normal roster.  

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Pittsburgh
Baltimore

Big Ben will probably not play.  He says he wants to play but don't expect it.  Pittsburgh could still get the 3 seed with a win and a Charger loss but look for Big Ben to rest his sore ankle. Charlie Batch is the next in line for Pittsburgh.  Here is a link to the latest article in the Pittsburgh Tribune.

Todd Heap will not play for Baltimore while WR Mark Clayton says he will play.  

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New Orleans
Chicago

Reggie Bush will not play.  Stecker has a turf toe and has been stated to be questionable.  Pierre Thomas may carry the load for the Saints.  Saints need a win to keep playoffs hopes alive.  They need a win along with Minnesota and Washington losing.

Bernard Berrian is questionable for the Bears.

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Jacksonville
Houston

We probably won't see Matt Schaub in the Texans' last game of the season. Coach Gary Kubiak said Schaub will be the No. 3 quarterback, according to the Houston Chronicle.

Jacksonville is in the playoffs.  How much will they play their starters?  Look for Fred Taylor to sit early and possibly MJD also.

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Detroit
Green Bay

Update: Sunday 12:30 Eastern  Green Bay has listed Donald Driver, Greg Jennings and Donald Lee as INACTIVE for today's game against the Lions.  While Favre will play and so will RB Ryan Grant, there is no guarantee how long they will play.  And other than James Jones, who will Brett throw the ball to today?

Most people are under the impression that Favre is a bad play this week.  That may not be true.  Aaron Rodgers has been inactive the past 2 weeks due to a sore hamstring.  He is still not well.  Further Favre has publicly stated he wants to play the entire game.  Look for Favre to start and play for at least the first half and possibly the entire game.  It may depend upon how much pressure the Lions are able to get on him.  If he isn’t getting hit, look for him to play at least 3 Quarters or the game is safely out of reach.

For the Lions, Tatum Bell is still questionable leaving TJ Duckett as the primary rb.

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Carolina
Tampa Bay

Garcia and other TB starters should see little action in this one. Coach Gruden has apparently said he plans to rest players this week.  Look for Luke McCown to get the majority of the QB work on Sunday for TB.  Joey Galloway has been confirmed as "out" for Sunday's game.

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Kansas City
NY Jets

Clemens has been announced as the starter for the Jets at QB.

Brady Croyle is set to start at QB for the Chiefs.

In this last regular season menu of NFL games, there are some dogs and a few good matchups. Some teams will be trampling the ladies and kids in order to get to the bus as quickly as possible, but several meaningful games still exist. This is the week 17 48 hour report.

O-out

D-doubtful

Q-questionable

P-probable

New England- Q- Kyle Brady (TE) Ben Watson (TE)  P- Tom Brady (QB) Rodney Harrison (S)

New York Giants- D- Sinorice Moss (WR) David Tyree (WR) Q- Plaxico Burress (WR)  P- Brandon Jacobs (RB)

 

Seattle- Q -D.J.Hackett (WR)  P- Shaun Alexander (RB)

Atlanta- O-Terrance Pennnington (T) IR  D- Joe Horn (WR) P- Byron Leftwich (QB)

 

New Orleans- O- Dante Ridgeway (WR) IR  Jamal Branch (RB) IR  D- Eric Johnson (TE)  Q- Reggie Bush (RB)  P- Marques Colston (WR)

Chicago- O- Nathan Vasher (CB) IR Mark Anderson (DE) IR  Q-Lance Briggs (LB) Tommie Harris (DT) Rex Grossman (QB) Darewin Walker (DT)

 

San Fransisco- O- Trent Dilfer (QB) Q- Michael Robinson (RB)  P- Arnaz Battle (WR)  Frank Gore (RB)  Jeff Ulbrich (LB)

Cleveland- O- Ethan Kelley (DT) IR  Mike Adams (S) IR  P- Orpheus Roye (DT)  Robaire Smith (DE)  Shaun Smith (DT)

 

Detroit- D- Troy Walters (WR)  P- Langston Moore (DT)  T.J.Duckett (RB) Kevin Jones (RB)

Green Bay- O- Korey Hall (RB)  D- Aaron Rodgers (QB) Q-Jarrett Bush (CB) Bubba Franks (TE) Greg Jennings (WR)

 

Jacksonville- O- Mike Peterson (LB)  D- Reggie Hayward (DE) P- Tony Pashos (T)

Houston- Q- Matt Schaub (QB)  P- Kris Brown (K) Ron Dayne (RB)

 

Cincinnati- O- DeDe Dorsey (RB) IR  Rudi Johnson (RB) Q- Chris Henry (WR)

Miami- O- Andre Goodman (CB) IR Channing Crowder (LB) IR   Q- Jesse Chatman (RB) Vonnie Holiday (DT) Joey Porter (LB) Jason Taylor (DE) Keith Traylor (DT)

 

Buffalo- O- Copeland Bryan (DE) Coy Wire (S)  Q- Roscoe Parrish (WR) Jason Peters (T) P- Robert Royal (TE)

Philadelphia- O- L.J.Smith (TE) Shawn Andrews (G)  D- Matt Schobel (TE)  Q- Brian Dawkins (S) Brian Westbrook (RB) Reggie Brown (WR)

 

Carolina- O- Julius Peppers (DE) IR  Justin Hartwig (C) IR   P- Steve Smith (WR) Vinny Testaverde (QB)

Tampa Bay- O- Maurice Stovall (WR)  Q -B.J. Askew (RB)  P Michael Pittman (RB) Joey Galloway (WR)

 

St.Louis-  no injuries in the last 7 days

Arizona- O- Ross Kolodziej (DT) IR  Q-Anquan Boldin (WR) Larry Fitzgerald (WR) P- Kurt Warner (QB)

 

Pittsburgh- O-Willie Parker (RB) IR  it is expected that Charlie Batch will start at QB in place of Ben Rothlisberger

Baltimore- O- Kyle Boller (QB) Demetrius Williams (WR)  D- Todd Heap (TE) Daniel Wilcox (TE)  Q- Ray Lewis (LB)  P- Jerome Sapp (S) Willis McGahee (RB) Quinn Sypiewski (TE) Jonathan Ogden (T)  Mike Anderson (RB)

 

Minnesota- Q- Sidney Rice (WR) Antoine Winfoield (CB)  P- Tank Williams (S)

Denver- D- Ian Gold (LB) Q- Daniel Graham (TE) Brandon Stokely (WR)  P- Javon Walker (WR)

 

Kansas City- O- Larry Johnson (RB) IR Eddie Kennison (WR) Q- Donnie Edwards (LB) Brodie Croyle (QB)

New York Jets- O- Jason Trusnik (LB) IR  Laveranues Coles (WR) IR  Q- Chris Baker (TE) Kellen Clemens (QB) James Dearth (TE)  Justin McCareins (WR)  P- Jericho Cotchery (WR) Brad Smith (WR)

 

San Diego- O- Lorenzo Neal (RB) Q- Luis Castillo (DE) Shawne Merriman (LB)  Michael Turner (RB)  P- Philip Rivers (QB)

Oakland- O- Justin Fargas (RB) IR  Daunte Culpepper (QB) IR  Q- Tim Dwight (WR) P- Josh McCown (QB)

 

Dallas- O-Terrell Owens (WR) Terry Glenn (WR)  P- Anthony Fasano (TE) Tony Romo (QB)

Washington- O- Mike Pucillo (G) IR  Jason Campbell (QB)  D- Todd Yoder (TE) Q- Pierson Prioleau (S) P-LaRon Landry (S)  Keenan McCardell (WR)

 

Tennessee- O- Eric King (CB) IR  Q- Albert Haynesworth (DT)  Kevin Mawae (C)  P- LenDale White (RB)

Indianapolis-O- Raheem Brock (DT) Ryan Diem (T) Marvin Harrison (WR)  Q Ben Utecht (TE)  P- Craphonso Thorpe (WR) Anthony Gonzalez (WR)

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What a difference making the playoffs makes for an NFL team's fan base. Once the Giants beat Buffalo in the monsoon last Sunday,  in the first 24 hours post-game, over 200 Giants fan ticket holders put their tickets for this coming Sunday's game against the Patriots on EBay for sale. This is the" American Way!" Then Monday another 3000 joined them on Stub Hub for the ticket sell-off. Since Sunday's game could be somewhat historic if the Patriots finish the regular season undefeated, Patriot fans have ponied up to pay as much as $1600 for winning bids. The $ meant more than seeing the Giants rest their starters prior to playing their playoff game. Tom Coughlin has already started a debate by announcing he might rest his starters, giving some of the walking wounded an additional week to recover before playing a game that means the possible end of their season. After all, if rumors are true that Coughlin's future as Giants head coach rests on how well the team performs in the playoffs, then that game would be the priority to play well in, not the regular season finish. After all ,Coughlin needs to be concerned with the Giants, not the Patriots really.

This situation then brings into question whether the Patriots, having sewn up the AFC North what seemed like a lifetime ago, should do? Bill Belichick, when it gets to this time of the season for most of the last decade, has not appreciated the questions thrown his way about how he will approach playing his starters this weekend. "We will do what is best for OUR football team!" is the refrain that he should have recorded to save his voice. What happens if he plays QB Tom Brady in a meaningless game, is up by a controlling score, leaves Brady in, and some Giant takes a cheap Pittsburgh-like late hit on Brady's knee? Is this in any way a team good enough to overcome the loss of Brady and still win in a playoff game? Do the Patriots and the Giants owe fans that paid last summer for their tickets to see this game the best effort their franchises can provide? What do the Giants have to lose by taking out Brady, especially if Belichick decides to handle this game like he did the last time the Redskins faced New England. There were many cries of "FOUL!" over the final score where New England hammered the Redskins by 40 points. Do the Patriots owe their fans the same type of showing against a weaker Giants roster. Do they owe the fans the chance to see Brady set an NFL record for touchdowns passed for, as he currently sits one behind Peyton Manning's record set last year? The whole scenario puts an interesting twist onto a game that otherwise could be tuned out by many NFL TV fans this weekend.

The next Chapter of AS the NFL Turns is the situation in Miami. Sunday's game for the Dolphins could well be Cam Cameron's last game as Miami Dolphins head coach. Since the hiring of Bill Parcells as Exec.V.P., there has been much speculation about Cameron's immediate future. As would be expected, since he really probably doesn't know if he can save his job or not, Cameron has shunned all questions concerning any topic that includes Parcells. Even if he does come back as head coach, Cameron's power could be well lessened. Parcells is expected to shortly deal with defensive leader Zach Thomas' situation. Thomas is on I.R., but will command an impressive base salary of around $5.6 million next season. Combine those facts with the fact that Joey Porter, who was bought and imported to strengthen up the Miami defense this season, did not play well throughout the team's league-worst regular season. Bill "the TUNA" could be swimming with the sharks pretty soon upon appearing around the Miami beach areas.

Terrell Owens will be out of this weekend's Dallas-Redskins classic game. The Cowboys, however, could have new cavalry riding up to safe the day! Wide out Terry Glenn is expected to make his season debut. That in itself is impressive if it happens, as Glenn has had two arthroscopic knee procedures since training camp started. To return at all this season, because he is of thirty something age, or to return at all possibly, is quite an accomplishment after those surgeries. To do it in a Washington- Dallas game  adds a little more drama. This might divert some of the media's attention to the Romo-Simpson love wagon back onto an NFL contest. Also, remember that T.O. has a remarkable ability to heal quickly as the stakes get higher in playoff games.

Look for Rudi Johnson to make his return this weekend against the Dolphins. He has missed four total games this season, mostly due to a hamstring injury, which lowered his fantasy output greatly. Many of us drafted him high in our leagues bases upon past production, and we really got burned this time. Johnson will probably split carries with Ken Watson, who did perform well for fantasy owners that had the foresight to pick him up. This would still negate Johnson's fantasy value , and the best thing for fantasy owners that still had him would be for him to be ruled out. It might save fantasy owners from themselves and to still try to salvage big points from him.

Ladainian Tomlinson bolted into the league for the rushing title, now standing with 1,418 yards. His closest competitor, Willie Parker of the Steelers was placed on IR one week ago, ending his season. Look for LT to pad those yards against the Raiders Sunday. Now his closest competition comes from Minnesota rookie Adrian Peterson. Peterson has 1,305 yards, but was held to 27 yards rushing by the Redskins last week. One note to see is whether LT, who didn't play for significant tome in the second half last week because of a hamstring tweak, is able to perform and whether he is allowed to play for any time, since the Chargers are working on the no.3 seed , the Raiders game is really of no other significance then for players' personal statistics. One other item of interest in that game is that Charger kicker Nate Kaeding could be playing with a broken fibula on his left leg. It remains a team decision that has not been officially announced.

That is the up-to-date drama surrounding the NFL so far this week. For races that have already been decided in the divisional slots, there are still several interesting scenarios to watch develop this weekend. May your picture be clear and your couch comfortable in this some-what lull before playoff action takes hold.

It was a huge week for the top fantasy wide receivers of Week 16, with Anquan Boldin leading all scorers in standard-scoring leagues.  The other top receivers didn't do too badly either as a Christmas gift to their QBs.  Here are the top three:

1) Anquan Boldin (Arizona Cardinals) - Boldin was huge in a game with little meaning to the Cardinals, save for a morale booster.  Boldin piled up 162 yards and 2 TDs in Arizona's close win over Atlanta.  Boldin was not quite as consistent as his teammate, Larry Fitzgerald, but he has more potential for enormous games such as last Sunday's.

2) Jerricho Cotchery (New York Jets) - Did anyone think they would see a Jet on this list?  Cotchery's 152 yards actually wasn't his highest yardage of the season (165 yards in Week 2), but add a TD and you have his highest fantasy point total of the year.  Cotchery's main problem for fantasy purposes has been his inability to find the end zone, but if the Jets ever straighten out their QB situation, look for Cotchery to be an impact receiver next season.

3) (tie) Steve Smith (Carolina Panthers) - Smith continued to infuriate those who drafted him, producing 137 yards and one TD after averaging only 45.9 yards and 0 (that's right, zero!) TDs in his previous seven games.  In fairness, Smith's performances are due mostly to his team's abysmal QB situation, but that's little sympathy to the owners who drafted him in the early rounds.

3) (tie) Kevin Curtis* (Philadelphia Eagles) - Curtis gets the first asterisk of these lists, to my knowledge.  Curtis had 78 yards and 1 TD, which would be a good day under normal circumstances, but he also recovered an offensive fumble.  While that may not show up in the box score, it counts in a lot of standard-scoring leagues, vaulting him into a tie for third place in Week 16.

In a game that could have significant fantasy implications for many leagues, there are few inactives of note, at least directly.

Inactive for the Broncos: QB Darrell Hackney, WR Brandon Stokley, WR Taylor Jacobs, RB Mike Bell, LB Ian Gold, DT Isaac Snell, DE Larry Birdine, DE Paul Carrington.

Inactive for the Chargers:  QB Charlie Whitehurst, CB Paul Oliver, FB Lorenzo Neal, LB Anthony Waters, T Roman Oben, DT Jamal Williams, WR Malcom Floyd, TE Scott Chandler.

Most significant fantasy impact

WR Brandon Stokley - 635 rec. yards, 5 rec. TDs, (90 fantasy points*).

* Denotes points in standard scoring leagues. 

Players to Rethink

WR Javon Walker - Walker is active after participating fully in practice this week.  Don't expect him to do much, however.  If the Broncos were heading to the playoffs, then QB Jay Cutler could have spent this game trying to establish his rhythm with Walker, but that's not the case here.

RB Travis Henry/Selvin Young - Henry and Young have both struggled of late, but the Chargers' big run-stopper, DT Jamal Williams, is inactive.  Even though DE Luis Castillo is active, he probably won't have a huge impact, which could mean a big day for either Henry or Young.

TE Tony Scheffler - TE Daniel Graham is active, which could cut into Scheffler's playing time a bit.  Nonetheless, Scheffler has really emerged as a solid receiving target of late, so if you have him penciled in, don't worry too much.

 The Midas Touch

How many of you have had the Midas touch this season?  Chances are if you are playing for your team’s championship, if you are in the fantasy “Super Bowl”, then you had something of a Midas touch.  Injuries have plagued teams this season and Mother Nature has added her hand in a game or two.  So it has taken some fortuity to get to the Super Bowl in fantasy football.  Yes it has taken some intelligence but also good luck.

The Fred Sanford Touch

How many of you instead of the Midas touch feel like you have had the Fred Sanford touch? For those who don’t know their TV lore, Fred Sanford was a "junkman”.  Has everything you touched this season turned to junk instead of gold?  Ok maybe junk is the wrong word.  I can’t say my players played poorly after I added them.  They just got hurt!

With Terrell Owens’ injured ankle yesterday, I think every player I drafted this season has now missed game time due to injury.  Well maybe St. Louis Kicker Jeff Wilkins didn’t.  I am not sure about him.  I dropped him early in the season and ended up with Nick Folk instead down the stretch.  But with the possible exception of Wilkins, every player I drafted got injured.

An Injury Plagued Season

My first pick of the draft was Steven Jackson, and he was injured in the mud bowl down in Tampa Bay (Mother Nature giving her aid to my misfortune).  Due to a draft snafu I also ended up with Willie Parker who I later traded for Reggie Bush.  Both ended up injured.  Rudi Johnson and Brandon Jackson join the list.  Donald Driver was injured in the final preseason game.  Calvin Johnson against the Bears.  Deion Branch who I dropped after his horrible fisrt game to get another rb has missed many games.  Ben Watson at TE who I dropped and added Jeremy Shockey who another owner dropped.  Both injured.  Even my fantasy defense join the parade, as I drafted the Chicago Bears who have been riddled with injuries all season.  QBs Kitna and Losman join the list.  I dropped Losman before the season even began when I realized I had his bye week wrong and it was the same as Kitna’s.  I grabbed McNair instead.  Other waiver wire grabs include NE Sammy Morris, WR Laveranues Coles, Oakland RB Justin Fargas, rb Chris Brown, wr Anthony Gonzalez, and Lion RB Kevin Jones.  All ended on the IR or missed games with injuries.  Even Brett Favre who I traded Stephen Jackson to get was injured after I added him. 

Player after player this season that I “touched” in fantasy football has been plagued. I can see my reputation growing into fable lore across the NFL.  “Did you hear about John Doe?  He just got New’d.  How many days do you reckon he has left before he is on the IR?  Man I hope he leaves me off his fantasy team.” It got to the point this season that I joked with friends that I had discovered a way to get rich. Next season I will just contact all the better players in the NFL and show them my fantasy record.  Then I will offer NOT to add them to my fantasy team if they pay me.

Looking back, I am amazed I even made it to my league’s playoffs.  I am now playing for Third place even.  It’s been a crazy season and one plagued by injuries. 

The Giants must be cursed. Every week they get worse and worse. Forget two freak injuries that left Mathias Kiwanuka and Derrick Ward with broken legs, there is a new victim. And who knows, I seem to be a personal jinx to the team when talking about their injuries and bad luck, maybe there will be another player with a broken leg next week. Knock on wood.

Out:

Jeremy Shockey (Tight end) - The Giants have quite a collection of players suffering from broken fibula. A broken fibula, along with a nagging ankle injury, will keep Shockey out for the rest of the season. Shockey had a quiet year, but hopefully the corrected ankle will call for a huge year next year. One can hope.

Doubtful:

Kevin Dockery (Cornerback) - Dockery didn’t practice on Friday due to a hip flexor. There’s an outside chance he could play, though he most likely will not. Look for Aaron Ross to get more playing time.

David Tyree (Wide receiver) - The special teams ace didn’t practice on Friday. He’s listed as probable on the injury report and could likely miss another week due to the passing of his mother. Our condolences from SS.

Sinorice Moss (Wide receiver) - Moss is the model of inconsistency. One week after his best game as a pro and he’s already back to his injury prone way of life. Sinorice apparently strained his back on a play and failed to practice this week. Look for Steve Smith to get a lot of looks from Eli this week. Moss is officially listed as a game-time decision, but don’t put your money on him playing this week.

Questionable:

Manny Wright (Defensive tackle) - Manny didn’t practice this week due to a hurt ankle. He wasn’t going to have an impact even if he wasn’t hurt.

Probable:

Kareem McKenzie (Right Tackle) - McKenzie has battled an illness this week, but he should be ready by game day.

Plaxico Burress (Wide receiver) - Plax is always on here, but always plays in games. He’s definitely looking more healthy lately, so he has a chance to have another big game like he did a few weeks ago.

Gibril Wilson (Free safety) - He’s battled a lingering knee injury, but it seems like he’s finally ready to come back. Michael Johnson hasn’t done too badly filling in for the safety role, though Gibril definitely brings more to the table. I expect Johnson to spell Gibril every now and then, but other than that Wilson should be ready to go.

James Butler (Strong safety) - Even though Butler was limited in practice he is expected to play this week. He’ll be a game-time decision. Craig Dahl, surprisingly, played better than many expected. He’s in no way, shape, or form a Pro Bowler, but he seems like he’s dependable enough to come in and start one or two games a season if need be. However, I’d rather have Dahl start this week, mainly because I think Butler is that bad.

Justin Tuck (Defensive end) - Tuck aggravated his neck and missed a little practice this week. However, he should be set to go. Tuck is quietly having a stellar season in his limited time, therefore the Giants definitely can’t lose him.

In:

Brandon Jacobs (Running back) - Jacobs’ hamstring seemed to act up a bit, though he managed to practice. He is set to play against Buffalo and expects to be the bulk of the offense due to rainy weather. Start him.

Steve Smith (Wide receiver) - With Sinorice Moss injured, again, look for Smith to get a larger role in the offense. The weather forecast, at this time, is predicted to be rainy, so Smith may be used more in a possession role. He doesn’t project to do much work, but the Giants need him none-the-less.

Kevin Boss (Tight end) - Jeremy Shockey was officially placed on the I.R., ending his season. Look for Kevin Boss to start in his place. He could be an attractive option due to his amazing skill sets, although he’s very, very raw. He could be Eli Manning’s safety net this week.

The Bucs travel to San Francisco this week to play the 49ers.  They will be without a few players that are already known, and there are a couple who will be game-time decisions.  Here is this week's Injury Report:

B.J. Askew (RB, ankle) and Patrick Chukwurah (LB, hamstring) are both out this week and did not travel with the team to San Francisco.

Greg Spires (DE, calf), Michael Pittman (RB, ankle) and Ryan Nece (MLB, groin)  are all questionable for this week.  They will be game-time decisions.

Ike Hilliard (WR, back) and Jeff Garcia (QB, back) are both probable for this week and expected to play.

Garcia has been battling his back injury for weeks, but he made it back into the lineup last week against Atlanta.  He led the team to a 37-3 victory against the Falcons by passing for 109 yards and a touchdown.  Tampa faces a weak 49ers defense tomorrow (ranked 20th in passing), so expect Garcia to not only play, but play well.  Ike Hilliard has battled different injuries all season, but hasn't missed a game yet.  Joey Galloway is Garcia's favorite target this season, and while Hilliard will get his touches, consider him a low end No. 2 option this week.

The Packers have already clinched their division and now look to obtain home-field advantage with a win over Chicago (and a Dallas loss).  Green Bay's defense has long been a struggle for the team, but this season they really stepped it up and began to help the offense as they should.  Unfortunately, over the past couple of weeks, the Packers defense has been plagues by injuries.  The loss of Johnny Jolly (IR, DT, shoulder) was a huge blow to the front four.  This week will be no different as there are only a few offensive players with injuries; the rest all play defense.  Here is your Injury Report:

Korey Hall (RB, hip) is out this week against Chicago, after injuring his hip last week in St. Louis.

Jarrett Bush (CB, calf), Aaron Rodgers (QB, hamstring) and Tracy White (OLB, ankle) are all doubtful for this week.

Bubba Franks (TE, knee), Aaron Kampman (DE, back) and Ryan Pickett (DL, groin) are all questionable.

Chad Clifton (T, shoulder), Junius Coston (T, ankle), Al Harris (CB, heel), Mark Tauscher (T, ankle), Charles Woodson (CB, toe) and Aaron Rouse (S, shoulder) are all probable this week.

Knowing the Packers, I would expect all probable players to play, but keep everyone else sidelined this week if you have them on your team.

Those of you still holding onto RB Larry Johnson in the hope that he would be a surprise factor in the fantasy playoffs, it's probably time to give up on that hope.  The Kansas City Star reports that Johnson left practice early after apparently re-injuring his foot, and he is out for the matchup against Detroit this Sunday.

Johnson, of course, was one of the great disappointments in fantasy leagues this year.  A consensus top-five pick, Johnson managed only three double-digit fantasy-point games, and spent more than half the season on the sidelines with his injured foot.  For the season, Johnson garnered only 559 yards and three TDs in eight games and a very disappointing 3.5 yards per carry.

If you haven't dropped Johnson now, don't hesitate to do so if there's someone on the waiver wire who can help you.  As for next year, keep a close eye on the Chiefs' transactions.  While Johnson is still guaranteed to be the starting RB, the Chiefs need to upgrade their offensive line drastically.  If they don't appear to improve the line significantly, Johnson's value drops to more of a second or even flex RB/WR, rather than the first-tier RB he's been the last few years. 

Although the Falcons have had their share of problems as they struggled this season, injuries have not plagues them as they have plagues other teams.  The Falcons have been lucky to have the majority of their starters healthy all season, but they couldn't put together an effective offense amid the distractions of Michael Vick and Bobby Petrino.  This week is no different, as only handful of players have significant injuries:

Joe Horn (WR, foot) is doubtful.

Roddy White (WR, knee), Tyson Clabo (G, ankle), Tim Anderson (DT, knee) and Chris Houston (CB, knee) are all questionable against Arizona this week.

John Abraham (DL, knee) and Antoine Harris (SS, knee) are both probable for this week.

The Falcons have had a dismal season, so don't look for that to change this week against a Cardinals team that has been playing well despite losing their last two games.  Tomorrow's game will be in Arizona, so don't expect much of your Atlanta fantasy players.