A few cuts are still trickling in here and there but here is the basic list of those that fell in the annual 'Great Saturday Massacre'. Once again, props to FBG Jeter23 whose list in the Shark Pool at footballguys.com was a great reference. I have some thoughts on some of the cuts I will follow up with as well, but for now just try not to hurt yourself with the mass amount of names. Some (Andre Woodson, Marcus Thomas) will end up on the practice squad (Woodson already did I believe) and may get work later if there is an injury.
And now - the list of the fallen:
49ers -- DT Joe Cohen, TE Cooper Wallace, S Lewis Baker, QB Kyle Wright, G John Booker, WR Jerard Rabb, WR Robert Ortiz, OL Chris Patrick, P Ricky Schmitt, WR Dominique Zeigler, T Joe Toledo, G Brian de la Puente, TE J.J. Finley, LB Larry Grant, DE Louis Holmes, S D.J. Parker, CB Markus Curry, DL Walter Curry, RB Thomas Clayton, DT Atiyyah Ellison, LB Dennis Haley, FB Moran Norris, DT LaJuan Ramsey, T Alan Reuber, WR Cameron Colvin, WR Ashley Lelie
Bears -- WR Marcus Monk, CB Ricky Manning Jr., LB Rod Wilson, OL Tyler Reed, OL Cody Balogh, OL Ryan Poles, WR Mike Hass, FB Lousaka Polite, DE Daniel Bazuin, RB P.J. Pope, LB Michael Okwo, S Leonard Peters, DE Ervin Baldwin, DE Joe Clermond, WR Brandon Rideau, TE Fontel Mines, G Anthony Oakley, LB Joey LaRocque
Bengals -- OT Willie Anderson, RB Rudi Johnson, LB Ahmad Brooks, QB Jeff Rowe, WR Mario Urrutia, DT Antwon Burton, S John Busing, DE/OLB Eric Henderson, RB James Johnson, CB Deltha O'Neal, LB Jim Maxwell, TE Nate Lawrie, G Nate Livings, T Dane Uperesa, G James Blair, DE Angelo Craig, DLs Anthony Hoke and Dan Howell, WR Maurice Purify, WR Clyde Logan
Bills -- DB Kennard Cox, WR C.J. Hawthorne, P D.J. Fitzpatrick, DE Shaun Nua, TE Courtney Anderson, CB Will James, LB Donnie Spragan, RB Dwayne Wright
Broncos -- WR Samie Parker, DL Josh Mallard, WR Lorne Sam, S Josh Barrett and DE Paul Carrington, DE Larry Birdine, QB Darrell Hackney, OL P.J. Alexander, TE Chad Mustard, WR Glenn Martinez, TE Brett Pierce, OL Mitch Erickson, WR Marquay McDaniel, P Sam Paulescu, G Dylan Gandy, LB Jordan Beck, CB Wale Dada, DT Steven Harris, WR Cliff Russell, DB Tyrone Poole, and S Vickiel Vaughn
Browns -- DE Chase Pittman, RB Travis Thomas, OL Derrick Morse, OL Marvin Philip, TEs Brad Cieslak and Kolomana Kapanui, WRs Lance Leggett and Steve Sanders, CBs A.J. Davis and Jereme Perry, S Travis Key and Brandon Mitchell, LBs Chase Ortiz and David McMillan, OT James Lee, K Jason Reda, LB Shantee Orr and waived DL Melila Purcell, OT Jonathan Palmer, WR Travis Wilson, WR Steve Sanders, WR Efrem Hill
Buccaneers -- WR Paris Warren, LB Antoine Cash, S Donte Nicholson, QB Chris Simms, DT Dre Moore, LB Ryan Nece, WR Brian Clark, DE Patrick Chukwurah, CB Darrell Hunter, WR Chad Lucas, DE Charles Bennett, RB Clifton Smith
Cardinals - WR Jemalle Cornelius, CB Marcus Brown, C Hercules Satele, DL Bryan Robinson, CB Travarous Bain, CB DeMario Minter, S Dennis Keyes, LBs Brandon Moore, Matt Stewart, Chris Harrington, and Joe Tafoya, DB Michael Adams, DL Jason Banks, DL Keilen Dykes, WR Jamaica Rector, RB Stevie Baylark, RB Chris Vincent, OLs Kelly Butler, Carlton Medder, Peter Clifford and Jasper Harvey, TE Alex Shor, TE Brent Miller, C Pat Ross, QB Anthony Morelli
Chargers -- QB Casey Bramlet, WR Billy Pittman, TE John Tereshinski, WR Marco Thomas, K/P Billy Vinnedge, RB Eldra Buckley, DE Andre Coleman, NT Keith Jackson, TE Keith Grennan, DT Lamar Divens, LB Antwan Applewhite, LB Erik Bakhtiari, WR Gary Banks, S Tra Battle, CB Josh Bell, TE Wade Betschart, SS Brian Bonner, RB Marcus Thomas, G Erik Robertson, LB Carlos Polk, OT Tony Pape, LB Terna Nande, OT Tyler Luellen, WR Mark Jones, OL Brandyn Dombrowski
Chiefs -- LB/FB Oliver Hoyte, DE Trevor Johnson, OT Ken Shackleford, K Conner Barth, LB E.J. Kuale, LB Steve Octavien, S Khayyam Burns, OT Anthony Alabi, TE Michael Allan, C Rob Smith, WR Kevin McMahan, OL Travis Leffew, G Ed Harrison, WR Sergio Joachim, WR Jabari Arthur, DE Jason Parker, DT Johnny Dingle, DT Derek Lokey, CB Rashad Barksdale, WR Bobby Sippio, T Will Svitek, G Tre' Stallings, G Rob Smith, LB Lerue Rumph, FB Chris Manderino, TE Tim Massaquoi, LB Jon Banks, LB Marcus Buggs, LB Blake Costanzo, OL Dustin Dickinson, OT Patrick Estes, FB Jonathan Evans, OL Robert Felton, DB Dustin Fox, OL Christian Gaddis, RB Bruce Hall, WR Felton Huggins, DT Jason Jefferson, DE Derrick Jones, DT Corey Mace, WR Scott Mayle, OL Nevin McCaskill, DT Teraz McCray
Colts -- RB Clifton Dawson, LB Marcus Richardson, P/K Adam Crossett, WRs Devin Aromashodu, Onrea Jones and Sam Giguere, Dls Joe Bradley, Jeff Charleston, Dan Davis, Colin Ferrell and Ben Ishola, OL Tala Esera, Darren Marquez and Michael Toudouze, DBs Brannon Condren and Brandon Foster, TE Tyrice Thompson, LB Victor Worsley, LB Kyle Shotwell, QB Quinn Gray, QB Jared Lorenzen, RB Kenton Keith, RB Chad Simpson
Cowboys -- FB Ronnie Cruz, CB Quincy Butler, QB Jeff Terrell, P Jay Ottovegio, WR Daniel Polk, G Adam Stenavich, QB Richard Bartel, WR Mark Bradford, WR Mike Jefferson, TE Rodney Hannah, TE Drew Atchison, RB Alonzo Coleman, FB Julius Crosslin, C Ryan Gibbons, OT Cory Lekkerkerker, DE Marcus Smith, DE Marcus Dixon, NT Junior Siavii, NT Remi Ayodele, LB Darrell Robertson, LB Erik Walden, LB Tyson Smith, LB Tearrius George, S Dowayne Davis, WR Todd Lowber, WR Danny Amendola, RB Keon Lattimore
Dolphins -- S Keith Davis, FB Reagan Mauia, S Courtney Bryan, TE Justin Peelle, OLB Junior Glymph, RB Lex Hilliard, CB Will Billingsley, LB Titus Brown, C Mike Byrne, WR Jayson Foster, LB Maurice Fountain, NT Anthony Toribio, LB Edmond Miles
Eagles -- WR Bam Childress, LB Pago Togafau, CB Nick Graham, CB Therrian Fontenot, G Stefan Rodgers, RB Ryan Moats, TE/FB Kris Wilson, LB Justin Roland, DT Montae Reagor, LB Andy Studebaker, CB Kyle Arrington, DE Jerome McDougle, FB Jed Collins, FB Jason Davis, WR Michael Gasperson, DT Michael Marquardt, WR Shaheer McBride, G Scott Young
Falcons -- G Kynan Forney, OL D'Anthony Batiste, C Doug Datish, DE Brandon Miller, DT Montavious Stanley, TE Marcus Pollard, LB Cameron Vaughn, DL Rashad Moore, OT Terrance Pennington, DE Willie Evans, S Deke Cooper, TE Keith Zinger, CB Wilrey Fontenot, WR Chandler Williams, WR Eric Weems, LB Mickey Pimentel, CB Glenn Sharpe, S Daren Stone, S Eric Brock, OT Michael Butterworth, QB Joey Harrington
Giants -- WR DJ Hall, S Craig Dahl, S Miguel Scott, WR Michael Jennings, WR Marcus Monk, FB Robert Douglas, OG Kurt Quarterman, TE Eric Butler, DT Ogemdi Nwagbuo, LB James Terry, OL Cliff Louis, LB Tank Daniels, K Josh Huston, DB Geoff Pope, OL Andrew Bain, S Stuart Schweigert, QB Andre Woodson, TE Jerome Collins, DE Alex Morrow, DE Wallace Gilberry, OL Na'Shan Goddard, OL Digger Bujnoch, DT Jeremy Clark, WR Brandon London, DT Rodney Leisle.
Jaguars -- OL Chris Liwienski, WRs John Broussard, Clyde Edwards, Jeron Harvey, DL Alex Boston, WR Ryan Hoag, OL Pete McMahon, CB Isaiah Gardner, WR D'Juan Woods, CB Rashod Moulton, DB Trae Williams, TE Chris Brown, DE Mkristo Bruce, OT Andrew Carnahan, TE Charles Davis, QB Todd Bouman, RB Ciatrick Fason, LB Tony Gilbert, DT Jesse Mahelona, LB Lamar Myles, DEs Kenny Pettway and Bo Schobel, G/C Drew Miller, CB Michael Grant
Jets -- RB Musa Smith, S Ron Girault, RB Rodney Kinlaw, OT Thaddeus Coleman, LB Matt Chatham, CB Hank Poteat, TE A.J. Schable, DL Thomas Johnson, RB/FB Jehuu Caulcrick, TE Jason Pociask, DL Ropati Pitoitua, WR Paul Raymond, LB Brandon Renkart, WR David Ball, G Jacob Bender, WR Larry Brackins, CB Rudy Burgess, OL Stanley Daniels, OL Kyle DeVan, OL Nate Garner, S James Ihedigbo, DE Bryan Mattison, G Matt McChesney, LB Blair Phillips
Lions -- K Dave Rayner, CB Stephen Howell, LB Tyrone Pruitt, G Carroll Madison, DE Claude Harriott, WR Taye Biddle, WR Devale Ellis, CB Dovonte Edwards, TE Clark Harris, DB LaMarcus Hicks, WR Brandon Middleton, G Corey Hulsey, QB Drew Henson, WR Ron Bellamy, LB Darnell Bing, S Greg Blue, LB Buster Davis, G Frank Davis, DE Victor DeGrate, RB Artose Pinner, WR John Standeford, WR Kenneth Moore, CB Kiwaukee Thomas, T Jonathan Scott, LB Leon Joe, DE Rudy Hardie, LB Anthony Cannon and FB Sean McHugh
Packers -- RB DeShawn Wynn, RB Ryan Powdrell, WR Chris Francies, OL Ryan Consodine, S Tyrone Culver, WR Taj Smith, WR Jake Allen, WR Brett Swain, WR Johnny Quinn, CB Joe Porter, CB Scorpio Babers, FB Corey White, TE Joey Haynos, LB Spencer Havner, LB Danny Lansanah, G Ryan Keenan, C Brennen Carvalho, T Orrin Thompson, DT Conrad Bolston, DT Daniel Muir, DT Alfred Malone, RB Vernand Morency, RB Noah Herron
Panthers -- QB Lester Ricard, CB Curtis DeLoatch, TE Chris Conklin, DE Casper Brinkley, RB LaBrandon Toefield, RB DeCori Birmingham, FB Troy Fleming, WR Travis Taylor, WR William Buchanon, WR Chris Hannon, TE Chad Upshaw, OGs Toniu Fonoti, Milford Brown, and Evan Mathis, and OTs Geoff Schwartz, and Rueben Riley
Patriots -- RB Kyle Eckel, CB Jason Webster, OL Ryan Wendell, CB Jeff Shoate, C Jimmy Martin, TE Jonathan Stupar, NT Steve Fifita, C Mike Flynn, QB Matt Gutierrez, RB Benjarvus Green-Ellis, DL Tituss Adam, TE Tyson DeVreen, S Mark Dillard, LB Vince Redd, CB Mike Richardson, T Stephen Sene, G John Welbourn, and DL Santonio Thomas, LB Victor Hobson, CB Fernando Bryant, DB Antwain Spann
Raiders -- S Jarrod Cooper, DL Greg Spires, LB Grant Irons, QB Jeff Otis, WR Johnathan Holland, C Jesse Boone, CB Darrick Brown, DE Derrick Gray, DE Greyson Gunheim, FB Luke Lawton, CB-S Nate Lyles, WR Chris McFoy, P Glenn Pakulak, RB Louis Rankin, FB Marcel Reece, G Brandon Rodd, CB Nick Sanchez, and LB Shane Simmons, TE Darrell Strong, DB Marviel Underwood, CB Michael Waddell, TE Chris Wagner, LB Adam Archuleta, RB Adimchinobe Echemandu DT Josh Shaw
Rams -- WR Marques Hagans, S Jerome Carter, WR Matt Caddell, TE Nick Cleaver, CB Tanard Davis, CB Cortney Grixby, C Donovan Raiola, LB Marcus Riley, DL Henry Smith, DL Willie Williams, WR Reche Caldwell, WR Brandon Williams, DE C.J. Ah You, WR Derek Stanley, C Dustin Fry, CB Darius Vinnett, T Mark LeVoir, RB Lance Ball, LB Marc Magro, CB David Macklin, FB Russ Weil
Ravens -- DE/OLB Dan Cody, RB Alex Haynes, TE Keith Heinrich, OL Adam Kraus, LB Robert McCune, WR Justin Harper, TE Adam Bergen, QB Casey Bramlet, DT Darrell Campbell, WR Patrick Carter, OG Adrien Clarke, DT Amon Gordon, RB Allen Patrick, CB/S Ronnie Prude, OT Joe Reitz, OT Chad Slaughter, LB/DE Gary Stills, WR Ernie Wheelwright, DL Lorenzo Williams, WR Matt Willis, DT J'Vonne Parker
Redskins -- LB Matt Sinclair, S Vernon Fox, WR Burl Toler, DT Babatunde Oshinowo, DE Dorian Smith, WR Burl Toler, WR Billy McMullen, WR Horace Grant, LB Curtis Gatewood, LB David Holloway, CB Cedrick Holt, G Fred Matua, WR Maurice Mann, WR Anthony Mix, DT Matthias Askew, DT Ryan Boschetti, RB Nehemiah Broughton, T Devin Clark, G Andrew Crummey, QB Derek Devine, S Patrick Ghee, P Derrick Frost, OT Todd Wade, RB Marcus Mason, CB Byron Westbrook, CB Matteral Richardson, LB Danny Verdun Wheeler, T Tavares Washington, WR Billy McMullen, WR Horace Grant, LB Curtis Gatewood, LB David Holloway, CB Cedrick Holt, G Fred Matua, WR Maurice Mann
Saints -- FB Kevin Dudley, WR Todd Blythe, S Curome Cox, C Rob Hunt, P Waylon Prather, TE Ronnie Ghent, S Lance Schulters, DE Jeremy Geathers, DE Marcus Pittman, S David Roach, G Isaiah Ross, OT Brian Stamper, QB Tyler Palko, TE Buck Ortega, DE Josh Savage, FB Olaniyi Sobomehein, WR/PR Skyler Green, DL Orien Harris, OL Tim Duckworth, LB Jo-Lonn Dunbar, RB Lynell Hamilton, LB Will Kershaw, WR Joe West, K Tyler Mehlhaff, G Andy Alleman
Seahawks -- CB Omare Lowe, WR Joel Filani, FB David Kirtman, LB Dallas Sartz, TE Joe Newton, P Reggie Hodges, C Ben Claxton, C Nick Jones, DBs Jamar Adams and Kelin Johnson, QB Dalton Bell, DT Kevin Brown, WRs Michael Bumpus and Trent Shelton, T Kyle Williams, DE Nu'u Tafisi, DT Larry Tripplett and WR Bryan Gilmore
Steelers -- WR Jeremy Bloom, QB Mike Potts, DL Martavius Prince, TE Lee Vickers, LB Patrick Bailey, WR/KR Eddie Drummond, P Paul Ernster, FB Billy Latsko, OG Doug Legursky, OG Matt Lentz, CB Roy Lewis, S Grant Mason, DE Ryan McBean, OT Jeremy Parquet, DT Scott Paxson, DE Jordan Reffett, WR Willie Reid, WR Micah Rucker, TE Dezmond Sherrod, RB Justin Vincent, CB Travis Williams, LB Mike Humpal, S Ryan Mundy
Texans -- FB Jameel Cook, WR Tim Carter, G Mark Fenton, RB Darius Walker, RB Marcel Shipp, S Glenn Earl, WR Mark Simmons, QB Shane Boyd, DL Gabe Long, DL Jesse Nading, DE/OLB Rosey Colvin, DT Anthony Maddox, CB Jamar Fletcher, WR Darnell Jenkins, LB Ben Moffit, DE Tim Bulman
Titans -- DT Barry Booker, T Brandon Torrey, WR Chris Davis (WFU), LB Jorge Cordova, QB Ingle Martin, CB Cary Williams, K John Vaughn, S Tony Joiner, WR Edward Williams, RB Omar Cuff, CB Marquice Cole, S Tuff Harris, OLs Isaac Snell, Jason Murphy, Enoka Lucas, Fernando Velasco, LB Jerrell Freeman, WR Roydell Williams, FB/LB Jeremy Cain, DE Eric Taylor, WR Biren Ealy, S Calvin Lowry, DT Antonio Johnson, DE Sean Conover, TE Jamie Petrowski, FB Casey Cramer
Vikings -- LB Derrick Pope, WR Daniel Davis, OLs Sean Dumford, OL Brock Pasteur, WR Martin Nance, C Dan Mozes, OT Chase Johnson, TE Braden Jones, CB Dee McCann, WR Jaymar Johnson, DE Martail Burnett, and DE Leger Douzable, G Brian Daniels and RB Albert Young, LB Rufus Alexander, LB David Herron Jr., WR Nate Jones, CB Brandon Sumrall, DE Chris Norwell, QB Brooks Bollinger, K Steven Hauschka, CB Marcus Walker, LB J Leman, C Tim Mattran, WR Darius Reynaud
I'll try to give a full practice squad accounting but I make no promises. I know Woodson (NYG), RB Marcus Thomas (DET) and Darius Walker (HOU) have been signed to practice clubs or in Thomas' place, onto the roster directly. The cut by the Chargers cost them a solid back, though one they can spare. Thomas might be a very nice short yardage guy for the Lions and could kill Rudi Johnson's chances of catching on in Detroit.
More later - have a good one!
Sunday, August 31, 2008
Saturday, August 30, 2008
Jesse Chatman Update
Will post the final cutdown list for NFL teams tomorrow HOWEVER, we had reported that the NY Jets had cut RB Jesse Chatman - and this was very much not the case.
Turns out Chatman is still a Jet - just a Jet on suspension for violating the NFL Steroid policy. Chatman gets a 4 game sitdown (and his agent is saying he was not using, by the way).
When he returns, HC Eric Mangini says there is definitely a role for him, so the Jets are still pleased with his work this preseason. He's not worth rostering before his suspension (maybe even after it is over) but I thought as the initial reports were incorrect, it was only fair to correct it.
Turns out Chatman is still a Jet - just a Jet on suspension for violating the NFL Steroid policy. Chatman gets a 4 game sitdown (and his agent is saying he was not using, by the way).
When he returns, HC Eric Mangini says there is definitely a role for him, so the Jets are still pleased with his work this preseason. He's not worth rostering before his suspension (maybe even after it is over) but I thought as the initial reports were incorrect, it was only fair to correct it.
College Football Season - Woo-Hoo!
Although it technically started Thursday, College Football season kicked into high gear today as the bulk of the NCAA locked horns for the first weekend of the season.
Some of the highlights:
#1 Georgia started their season off with a 45-21 drubbing of Georgia Southern. QB Matthew Stafford threw for 275 yards (his highest career total to date) and 2 TDs. Knowshon Moreno didn't carry the ball much (just 8 carries for 59 yards) but totaled 3 TDs and added 2 catches for 53 yards as Georgia put up 24 points in the first half, then took off and never looked back.
#2 Ohio State didn't let up in their opening matchup against Youngstown State either, as they blanked the Pengiuns 43-0. Of course the biggest impact may be the potential loss of Heisman Hopeful RB Beanie Wells as he was carted off the field with an injury to his right foot. According to ESPN, X-rays were negative and Wells was back on the sidelines wearing a protective boot. Seeing the injury it seemed like a freak thing - like he planted his foot oddly and slipped. It is unknown if he will miss time, but early indications are it isn't serious. Lost in this was frosh QB Terrelle Pryor who ran the ball for 52 yds and a TD and threw the ball for 52 yards. Back to Wells, be may miss the next game in order to be fully healed for the week 3 matchup with USC which will have huge impact on the BSC race.
Speaking of #3USC, they were no less impressive in their opening game, shelacking Virginia 52-7. Marc Sanchez looked like he suffered no ill effects returning from his off-season knee injury, throwing for a tremendous 338 yards and 3 TDs, a performance not marred in the least by 1 INT. As is the case often with USC, multiple backs contributed to production at the position: Stafon Johnson ran in a TD from the 2, Joe McKnight carried the ball 6 times for 60 yards (and added 24 more through the air) while CJ Gable rushed for 73 yards and a TD. USC also seems to have found a pair of solid recievers in Ronald Johnson (3-78yds-1TD) and Damian Williams (7-91yds). USC's next game is in 2 weeks against Ohio State.
#4 Oklahoma continued the top team trend of annhilating the opposition, pounding Chattanooga 57-2. Sooner Qb Sam Bradford threw for 183 yds and 2 TDs while the gorund game of Chris Brown and DeMarco Murray combined for 187 yards and 5 TDs. Teh game was delayed for about an hour at halftime due to lightning and while the Sooners didn't match the first half stats, they gave no quarter.
Rounding out the top 5, #5 Florida beat Hawaii with a relatively balanced attack. Heisman Winner (and frontrunner) Tim Tebow did well, though not spectacularly so (9/14, 137 yds, 1TD) and instead the Gators scored everywhere else - defense, special teams, and with great play by their running backs, most notably Jeffrey Demps who ripped off a 62 run for a TD and Chris Rainey who blew off a 33 yd TD run. It's got to be nice when the Heisman Winner from 2007 is merely a tool in a blowout win, not the reason for it. And terribly scary for upcomign foes who know Tebow is capable of breaking out when needed - and now seems to have teammates who can do the same.
The rest of the rest:
#6 Missouri beat #20 Illinois 52-41 and while Illinois made a game of it after the half, it wasn't THAT close. #7 LSU didn't repeat Michigan's blunder against Appalachian State, beating them 41-13. Like much of the nation, our prayers are with them and the whole of the Gulf Coast as Hurricane Gustav bears down on the area. #8 West Virginia doubled up on Villanova 48-21 as Pat White threw for 208 yards and 5TDs. Amazingly, Villanova had more yards (399-354) than Virginia and more 1st downs as well. That has to change of the Mountaineers want to challenge for the BCS title. The UPSET SPECIAL SPECIAL turned out to be #24 Alabama as they beat #9 Clemson 34-10. The Crimson Tide's defense was the story as they shut down Clemson, smothering the run game completely and holding the whole offense to 189 yards total. #10 Auburn took care of business and shut out tomato can Louisiana-Monroe 34-10. #11 Texas beat Florida Atlantic 52-10 on a night when they retired Vince Young's jersey. They didn't miss Young at Qb tonight, though as Colt McCoy went 24/29 for 222 yards and 3 TDs, popping back up after three late hits after which things got choppy. Hey Coach Schnellenberge - think the Longhorns are tough now? Graham Harrell, #12 Texas Tech's QB threw for a staggering 536 yards and 2 TDs as the Red Raiders spanked Eastern Washington 49-24. #13 Wisconsin beat Akron 38-17 as Badger RB PJ Hill went off for 210 yards and a pair of TDs. He is human though - and fumbled on the goal line. #14 Kansas beat Florida International 40-10 with QB Todd Reesing going 37-of-52 for 256 yards and three TDs. #15 Arizona State isn't done beating Northern Arizona yet but after 3 quarters it's 30-3 and QB Rudy Carpenter has already totalled 388 yards through the air, a TD and then another 40 yards on the ground and has now taken a seat. That's what we at the Blurb call 'over'. #16 Brigham Young beat Northern Iowa 41-17 while QB Maz Hall threw for 486 yds and 2 TDs. East Carolina stunned #17 Virginia Tech to the tune of 27-22 as TJ Lee blocked a punt and returned it 27 yards for a TD with 1:52 left the game. #19 South Florida spanked Tennessee-Martin, who they limited to just 96 yards on offense. Like with #15 ASU, #21 Oregon leads their game with authority, ahead of Washington 37-10 in the 4th quarter. Joe Paterno tied Bobby Bowden for most wins by a college coach with a 66-10 win by his #22 Penn State Nittany Lions over Coastal Carolina. And then he tried to tell us he doesn't care. Sure Joe, sure. #23 Wake Forest already pounded Baylor 41-13 on Thursday, lead by a very efficient Riley Skinner (27/36 for 220 yds and 3 TDs). Finally, Bowling Green took down #25 Pitt, 27-17 as the Panthers turned the ball over 4 times and made too many mistakes to get by the Falcons, even though they outgained them in total offensive yards.
#18 Tennessee meets UCLA on Monday.
How's that for a kickoff weekend?
Some of the highlights:
#1 Georgia started their season off with a 45-21 drubbing of Georgia Southern. QB Matthew Stafford threw for 275 yards (his highest career total to date) and 2 TDs. Knowshon Moreno didn't carry the ball much (just 8 carries for 59 yards) but totaled 3 TDs and added 2 catches for 53 yards as Georgia put up 24 points in the first half, then took off and never looked back.
#2 Ohio State didn't let up in their opening matchup against Youngstown State either, as they blanked the Pengiuns 43-0. Of course the biggest impact may be the potential loss of Heisman Hopeful RB Beanie Wells as he was carted off the field with an injury to his right foot. According to ESPN, X-rays were negative and Wells was back on the sidelines wearing a protective boot. Seeing the injury it seemed like a freak thing - like he planted his foot oddly and slipped. It is unknown if he will miss time, but early indications are it isn't serious. Lost in this was frosh QB Terrelle Pryor who ran the ball for 52 yds and a TD and threw the ball for 52 yards. Back to Wells, be may miss the next game in order to be fully healed for the week 3 matchup with USC which will have huge impact on the BSC race.
Speaking of #3USC, they were no less impressive in their opening game, shelacking Virginia 52-7. Marc Sanchez looked like he suffered no ill effects returning from his off-season knee injury, throwing for a tremendous 338 yards and 3 TDs, a performance not marred in the least by 1 INT. As is the case often with USC, multiple backs contributed to production at the position: Stafon Johnson ran in a TD from the 2, Joe McKnight carried the ball 6 times for 60 yards (and added 24 more through the air) while CJ Gable rushed for 73 yards and a TD. USC also seems to have found a pair of solid recievers in Ronald Johnson (3-78yds-1TD) and Damian Williams (7-91yds). USC's next game is in 2 weeks against Ohio State.
#4 Oklahoma continued the top team trend of annhilating the opposition, pounding Chattanooga 57-2. Sooner Qb Sam Bradford threw for 183 yds and 2 TDs while the gorund game of Chris Brown and DeMarco Murray combined for 187 yards and 5 TDs. Teh game was delayed for about an hour at halftime due to lightning and while the Sooners didn't match the first half stats, they gave no quarter.
Rounding out the top 5, #5 Florida beat Hawaii with a relatively balanced attack. Heisman Winner (and frontrunner) Tim Tebow did well, though not spectacularly so (9/14, 137 yds, 1TD) and instead the Gators scored everywhere else - defense, special teams, and with great play by their running backs, most notably Jeffrey Demps who ripped off a 62 run for a TD and Chris Rainey who blew off a 33 yd TD run. It's got to be nice when the Heisman Winner from 2007 is merely a tool in a blowout win, not the reason for it. And terribly scary for upcomign foes who know Tebow is capable of breaking out when needed - and now seems to have teammates who can do the same.
The rest of the rest:
#6 Missouri beat #20 Illinois 52-41 and while Illinois made a game of it after the half, it wasn't THAT close. #7 LSU didn't repeat Michigan's blunder against Appalachian State, beating them 41-13. Like much of the nation, our prayers are with them and the whole of the Gulf Coast as Hurricane Gustav bears down on the area. #8 West Virginia doubled up on Villanova 48-21 as Pat White threw for 208 yards and 5TDs. Amazingly, Villanova had more yards (399-354) than Virginia and more 1st downs as well. That has to change of the Mountaineers want to challenge for the BCS title. The UPSET SPECIAL SPECIAL turned out to be #24 Alabama as they beat #9 Clemson 34-10. The Crimson Tide's defense was the story as they shut down Clemson, smothering the run game completely and holding the whole offense to 189 yards total. #10 Auburn took care of business and shut out tomato can Louisiana-Monroe 34-10. #11 Texas beat Florida Atlantic 52-10 on a night when they retired Vince Young's jersey. They didn't miss Young at Qb tonight, though as Colt McCoy went 24/29 for 222 yards and 3 TDs, popping back up after three late hits after which things got choppy. Hey Coach Schnellenberge - think the Longhorns are tough now? Graham Harrell, #12 Texas Tech's QB threw for a staggering 536 yards and 2 TDs as the Red Raiders spanked Eastern Washington 49-24. #13 Wisconsin beat Akron 38-17 as Badger RB PJ Hill went off for 210 yards and a pair of TDs. He is human though - and fumbled on the goal line. #14 Kansas beat Florida International 40-10 with QB Todd Reesing going 37-of-52 for 256 yards and three TDs. #15 Arizona State isn't done beating Northern Arizona yet but after 3 quarters it's 30-3 and QB Rudy Carpenter has already totalled 388 yards through the air, a TD and then another 40 yards on the ground and has now taken a seat. That's what we at the Blurb call 'over'. #16 Brigham Young beat Northern Iowa 41-17 while QB Maz Hall threw for 486 yds and 2 TDs. East Carolina stunned #17 Virginia Tech to the tune of 27-22 as TJ Lee blocked a punt and returned it 27 yards for a TD with 1:52 left the game. #19 South Florida spanked Tennessee-Martin, who they limited to just 96 yards on offense. Like with #15 ASU, #21 Oregon leads their game with authority, ahead of Washington 37-10 in the 4th quarter. Joe Paterno tied Bobby Bowden for most wins by a college coach with a 66-10 win by his #22 Penn State Nittany Lions over Coastal Carolina. And then he tried to tell us he doesn't care. Sure Joe, sure. #23 Wake Forest already pounded Baylor 41-13 on Thursday, lead by a very efficient Riley Skinner (27/36 for 220 yds and 3 TDs). Finally, Bowling Green took down #25 Pitt, 27-17 as the Panthers turned the ball over 4 times and made too many mistakes to get by the Falcons, even though they outgained them in total offensive yards.
#18 Tennessee meets UCLA on Monday.
How's that for a kickoff weekend?
More NFL Cuts
Some teams are playing catchup - more than likely I will post a final cuts lst tonight rather than update every hour or so when one or two new guys trickle in.
But the Brown hadn't cut anyone, so I thought I would throw a list out now.
Browns: DE Chase Pittman, RB Travis Thomas, and OLs Derrick Morse and Marvin Philip, TEs Brad Cieslak and Kolomana Kapanui, WRs Lance Leggett and Efrem Hill, CBs A.J. Davis and Jereme Perry, S Travis Key and Brandon Mitchell, LBs Chase Ortiz and David McMillan, DE Melila Purcell, OTs James Lee and Jonathan Palmer, LB Shantee Orr and K Jason Reda
They also IRd G Lennie Friedman.
Steelers: WR Willie Reid and KR Eddie Drummond Saturday - they IRd Charlie Batch.
Interesting side note - the Jets were reported to have released RB Jesse Chatman - but according to Profootballtalk.com , his agent is disputing that report.
Also some other quick notes:
Ben Obamanu broke his clavicle in the team's exhibition finale Friday night and could miss the season. The Seattle WR core has been decimated here and it's a tad worrying to see how often these gusy are getting hurt. You have to bump the whole offense's value down several notches and figure Hasselback will struggle early on as he tries to find someone other than Nate Burleson open. Courtney Taylor will now lock up the #2 position going into the season and I really like rookie TE John Carlson as a VERY late TE pick with upside. Don't depend on him but he may get a ton of emergency looks when all the defense is covering Burleson.
Peyton Manning says he's ready to go week 1 - owners can breathe a sigh of relief again.
Ricky Williams is still on top of the RB depth chart in Miami. It's not that Ronnie Brown didn't have a good final game - he did, with 12 carries for 47 yds and a TD as well as 2 catches for 10 yds. But as I have said, they will continue to work him into the line-up and at least for now, Williams is the workhorse. But a 70/30 or even 60/40 split in short order wouldn't shock me.
That's all for now - back to watching college football and I will have more cuts tonight!
But the Brown hadn't cut anyone, so I thought I would throw a list out now.
Browns: DE Chase Pittman, RB Travis Thomas, and OLs Derrick Morse and Marvin Philip, TEs Brad Cieslak and Kolomana Kapanui, WRs Lance Leggett and Efrem Hill, CBs A.J. Davis and Jereme Perry, S Travis Key and Brandon Mitchell, LBs Chase Ortiz and David McMillan, DE Melila Purcell, OTs James Lee and Jonathan Palmer, LB Shantee Orr and K Jason Reda
They also IRd G Lennie Friedman.
Steelers: WR Willie Reid and KR Eddie Drummond Saturday - they IRd Charlie Batch.
Interesting side note - the Jets were reported to have released RB Jesse Chatman - but according to Profootballtalk.com , his agent is disputing that report.
"The Jets did not release Jesse Chatman, nor will they," agent Brett Tessler said. "And they are not trying to trade him like another paper reported."We'll see how this works out - Chatman had a pretty big last game so i was shocked they let him go. If he sticks around he could pouch a couple of goal line carries if Jones can't get the work done initially. I don't think he is a huge threat to Jones' value though.
Also some other quick notes:
Ben Obamanu broke his clavicle in the team's exhibition finale Friday night and could miss the season. The Seattle WR core has been decimated here and it's a tad worrying to see how often these gusy are getting hurt. You have to bump the whole offense's value down several notches and figure Hasselback will struggle early on as he tries to find someone other than Nate Burleson open. Courtney Taylor will now lock up the #2 position going into the season and I really like rookie TE John Carlson as a VERY late TE pick with upside. Don't depend on him but he may get a ton of emergency looks when all the defense is covering Burleson.
Peyton Manning says he's ready to go week 1 - owners can breathe a sigh of relief again.
Ricky Williams is still on top of the RB depth chart in Miami. It's not that Ronnie Brown didn't have a good final game - he did, with 12 carries for 47 yds and a TD as well as 2 catches for 10 yds. But as I have said, they will continue to work him into the line-up and at least for now, Williams is the workhorse. But a 70/30 or even 60/40 split in short order wouldn't shock me.
That's all for now - back to watching college football and I will have more cuts tonight!
Friday, August 29, 2008
Updated Cut list
Once again, special thanks to FBG Jeter23 over at the Footballguys' Shark Pool forum - he's been keeping a great list based on info filtering through that always good community. I've added a few things as I went......
These are ALL the cuts up to and including today as of 6:40pm PST.
These are ALL the cuts up to and including today as of 6:40pm PST.
- 49ers DT Joe Cohen, TE Cooper Wallace, S Lewis Baker, QB Kyle Wright, G John Booker
- Bears WR Marcus Monk, CB Ricky Manning Jr., LB Rod Wilson, OL Tyler Reed, OL Cody Balogh, OL Ryan Poles, WR Mike Hass, FB Lousaka Polite, DE Daniel Bazuin, RB P.J. Pope, LB Michael Okwo, S Leonard Peters
- Bills DB Kennard Cox, WR C.J. Hawthorne, P D.J. Fitzpatrick, DE Shaun Nua
- Broncos WR Samie Parker, DL Josh Mallard, WR Lorne Sam
- Browns
- Bucs WR Paris Warren, LB Antoine Cash, S Donte Nicholson
- Cards WR Jemalle Cornelius, CB Marcus Brown, C Hercules Satele, DL Bryan Robinson
- Chargers QB Casey Bramlet, WR Billy Pittman, TE John Tereshinski, WR Marco Thomas, K/P Billy Vinnedge
- Chiefs LB/FB Oliver Hoyte, DE Trevor Johnson, OT Ken Shackleford, K Conner Barth
- Colts RB Clifton Dawson, LB Marcus Richardson, P/K Adam Crossett
- Cowboys FB Ronnie Cruz, CB Quincy Butler, QB Jeff Terrell, P Jay Ottovegio, WR Daniel Polk, G Adam Stenavich.
- Dolphins S Keith Davis
- Eagles WR Bam Childress, LB Pago Togafau, CB Nick Graham, CB Therrian Fontenot, G Stefan Rodgers, RB Ryan Moats
- Falcons
- Giants WR DJ Hall, S Craig Dahl, S Miguel Scott, WR Michael Jennings
- Jags OL Chris Liwienski, WRs John Broussard, Clyde Edwards, Jeron Harvey, DL Alex Boston
- Jets RB Musa Smith, S Ron Girault, RB Rodney Kinlaw, OT Thaddeus Coleman,LB Matt Chatham, CB Hank Poteat, TE A.J. Schable, DL Thomas Johnson, and RB/FB Jehuu Caulcrick, RB Jesse Chatman.
- Lions K Dave Rayner, CB Stephen Howell, LB Tyrone Pruitt, G Carroll Madison, DE Claude Harriott, WR Taye Biddle
- Packers RB DeShawn Wynn, RB Ryan Powdrell, WR Chris Francies, OL Ryan Consodine
- Panthers QB Lester Ricard, CB Curtis DeLoatch, TE Chris Conklin, DE Casper Brinkley
- Patriots RB Kyle Eckel, CB Jason Webster, OL Ryan Wendell, CB Jeff Shoate, C Jimmy Martin, TE Jonathan Stupar, NT Steve Fifita
- Raiders S Jarrod Cooper, DL Greg Spires, LB Grant Irons, QB Jeff Otis
- Rams WR Marques Hagans, S Jerome Carter, WR Matt Caddell, TE Nick Cleaver, CB Tanard Davis, CB Cortney Grixby, C Donovan Raiola, LB Marcus Riley, DL Henry Smith, DL Willie Williams
- Ravens DE/OLB Dan Cody
- Redskins LB Matt Sinclair, S Vernon Fox, WR Burl Toler, DT Babatunde Oshinowo, DE Dorian Smith, WR Burl Toler
- Saints FB Kevin Dudley, WR Todd Blythe, S Curome Cox, C Rob Hunt, P Waylon Prather, TE Ronnie Ghent, S Lance Schulters, DE Jeremy Geathers, DE Marcus Pittman, S David Roach, G Isaiah Ross, OT Brian Stamper
- Seahawks CB Omare Lowe, WR Joel Filani
- Steelers WR Jeremy Bloom, QB Mike Potts, DL Martavius Prince
- Texans FB Jameel Cook, WR Tim Carter, G Mark Fenton, RB Darius Walker, RB Marcel Shipp, S Glenn Earl, WR Mark Simmons, QB Shane Boyd, DL Gabe Long, DL Jesse Nading, DE/OLB Rosey Colvin, DT Anthony Maddox, CB Jamar Fletcher, WR Darnell Jenkins, LB Ben Moffit, DE Tim Bulman, DBs Dexter Wynn and Derrick Roberson, and WR LeRon McCoy
- Titans DT Barry Booker, T Brandon Torrey, WR Chris Davis (WFU), LB Jorge Cordova, OLs Isaac Snell, Jason Murphy, Enoka Lucas, and Fernando Velasco, and LB Jerrell Freeman, QB Ingle Martin, CB Cary Williams, K John Vaughn, S Tony Joiner, WR Edward Williams, RB Omar Cuff, CB Marquice Cole, and S Tuff Harris.
- Vikings LB Derrick Pope, WR Daniel Davis, OLs Sean Dumford, OL Brock Pasteur, WR Martin Nance, C Dan Mozes, OT Chase Johnson and TE Braden Jones
Friday News Stampede
Covering some of the news aftermath of last night's games - expect some big cuts tomorrow, which we will discuss sometime between now and Wednesday, unless soemone huge gets canned.
Baltimore Ravens
Troy Smith's tonsillitis has taken a turn for the worse and Smith has now been hospitalized. While he may be released in a few days the inability to eat during portions of the last week and now a hospital stay doesn't bode well for his ability to start week 1. Joe Flacco looked good last night (8/13, 72 yards) but still has work to do. He may have run out of developmental time though and could start the first game.
Houston Texans
The running back situation will clear by the end of day Saturday - Darius Walker carried the ball 9 times and only got a meager 18 yards. That 2 ypc isn't going to cut it and the only thing that might save him is that they are paying Chris Brown more money to do less and be injured. Ahman Green may be the initial starter, but Steve Slaton or Chris Taylor will emerge later and my money is still on Slaton.
New Orleans Saints
Deuce McAllister carried the ball 11 times for 30 yards in a final test of his surgically repaired knee. He seems to be all right, though he wasn't tremendously effective. While Deuce will probably start the year as a #2 (although could he be cut?) I expect Aaron Stecker or Pierre Thomas to tale over that job gradually. Thomas hasn't been lights out or anything, but he played well last year briefly and Stecker is decent as a back-up.
Washington Redskins
Has any preseason rookie Qb impressed like Colt Brennan? Probably not, because few had expectation as low as his. Still, give him credit - he has looked very good so far in preseason action. 13/18 for 119 yards isn't Joe Montana numbers and he has a way to go, but Brennan seems to have overcome some of his shortcomings and should stick around. It will be a long time before he has an impact, but one day - if he keeps this up - he will get his shot.
That's all for now folks - more later including some college thoughts. Figure late afternoon/early evening for you east coast peeps.
Baltimore Ravens
Troy Smith's tonsillitis has taken a turn for the worse and Smith has now been hospitalized. While he may be released in a few days the inability to eat during portions of the last week and now a hospital stay doesn't bode well for his ability to start week 1. Joe Flacco looked good last night (8/13, 72 yards) but still has work to do. He may have run out of developmental time though and could start the first game.
Houston Texans
The running back situation will clear by the end of day Saturday - Darius Walker carried the ball 9 times and only got a meager 18 yards. That 2 ypc isn't going to cut it and the only thing that might save him is that they are paying Chris Brown more money to do less and be injured. Ahman Green may be the initial starter, but Steve Slaton or Chris Taylor will emerge later and my money is still on Slaton.
New Orleans Saints
Deuce McAllister carried the ball 11 times for 30 yards in a final test of his surgically repaired knee. He seems to be all right, though he wasn't tremendously effective. While Deuce will probably start the year as a #2 (although could he be cut?) I expect Aaron Stecker or Pierre Thomas to tale over that job gradually. Thomas hasn't been lights out or anything, but he played well last year briefly and Stecker is decent as a back-up.
Washington Redskins
Has any preseason rookie Qb impressed like Colt Brennan? Probably not, because few had expectation as low as his. Still, give him credit - he has looked very good so far in preseason action. 13/18 for 119 yards isn't Joe Montana numbers and he has a way to go, but Brennan seems to have overcome some of his shortcomings and should stick around. It will be a long time before he has an impact, but one day - if he keeps this up - he will get his shot.
That's all for now folks - more later including some college thoughts. Figure late afternoon/early evening for you east coast peeps.
Thursday, August 28, 2008
Thursday in the books
Just wrapped up the Drive Block with Mr. Lammey and Mr. Bloom - check it out to the right shortly or as I always suggest, head to ITunes or Footballguys.com and subscribe so you not only don't miss a Drive Block, you don't miss an ep of the good work Cec and Sig do every day on the main Audible show.
Since so many starters didn't play, we'll just do a quick hits thing and get you out of here and on with your morning/evening.
David Carr went 20-29 for 192 yards and 2 TDs. Probably the official #2 in NY, and a standout surprising game it was..... Dolphin Qb Chad Henne went 16-20 for 137 yards, 1 TD and 1 INT, and definitely looks to be the future in Miami, though not one that will arrive this year barrign injury..... Jake Delhomme's backup Matt Moore left the game with an injury to his legs, but reports are that his leg was XRay'd and showed no broken bones. More tests will be done, but the thought is that it is a deep bruise.... Rashard Mendenhall looked good overall in his game, going for 79 yards on 21 carries - but he once again coughed up the ball, something that will get him in the doghouse if he doesn't cut it out.... I haven't been Vikings QB JD Booty's biggest fan but he won't lose his job when Brooks Bollinger looks like he did tonight. booty is still developing - what is Bollinger's excuse?.... Who is behind Crayton in Dallas? Well, not Sam Hurd, who left Thursday's game with an ankle sprain..... Troy Williamson did what he had to do and had a great game (4 catches for 84 yds and a TD) but it's unlikely he will be a huge factor in this team. Meanwhile David Garrard was quoted as saying that this year Matt Jones knows his playbook and he is looking to him to be a go-to guy in the offense.... Rumor is that while Adam Jones is free to play for the Cowboys, one slip and he gets a permanant ejection..... Jesse Chatman put up a combined 180 yards and a TD against the Eagles tonight and while it may have been against guys just trying to make an impression, he did exactly that himself. He's the #3 there and I wouldn't expect more from him, but could be a nice guy to watch in case of injury.....James Hardy had a nice night with a pair of catches for 30 yards. he can still have a shot to contribute if he can be more consistent in his routes.....
That's it for tonight..... see you for a couple of thoughts tomorrow, including some College takes on tonight's games - that Oregon/Stanford game was a heckuva matchup.
Since so many starters didn't play, we'll just do a quick hits thing and get you out of here and on with your morning/evening.
David Carr went 20-29 for 192 yards and 2 TDs. Probably the official #2 in NY, and a standout surprising game it was..... Dolphin Qb Chad Henne went 16-20 for 137 yards, 1 TD and 1 INT, and definitely looks to be the future in Miami, though not one that will arrive this year barrign injury..... Jake Delhomme's backup Matt Moore left the game with an injury to his legs, but reports are that his leg was XRay'd and showed no broken bones. More tests will be done, but the thought is that it is a deep bruise.... Rashard Mendenhall looked good overall in his game, going for 79 yards on 21 carries - but he once again coughed up the ball, something that will get him in the doghouse if he doesn't cut it out.... I haven't been Vikings QB JD Booty's biggest fan but he won't lose his job when Brooks Bollinger looks like he did tonight. booty is still developing - what is Bollinger's excuse?.... Who is behind Crayton in Dallas? Well, not Sam Hurd, who left Thursday's game with an ankle sprain..... Troy Williamson did what he had to do and had a great game (4 catches for 84 yds and a TD) but it's unlikely he will be a huge factor in this team. Meanwhile David Garrard was quoted as saying that this year Matt Jones knows his playbook and he is looking to him to be a go-to guy in the offense.... Rumor is that while Adam Jones is free to play for the Cowboys, one slip and he gets a permanant ejection..... Jesse Chatman put up a combined 180 yards and a TD against the Eagles tonight and while it may have been against guys just trying to make an impression, he did exactly that himself. He's the #3 there and I wouldn't expect more from him, but could be a nice guy to watch in case of injury.....James Hardy had a nice night with a pair of catches for 30 yards. he can still have a shot to contribute if he can be more consistent in his routes.....
That's it for tonight..... see you for a couple of thoughts tomorrow, including some College takes on tonight's games - that Oregon/Stanford game was a heckuva matchup.
Thursday Afternoon News
Second of probably three of these today barring some giant piece of news - also remember to catch myself, Cecil Lammey and Sigmund Bloom on BlogTalkRadio as The Drive Block will bring you 2 hours of live genius beginning at 10pm EST/7pm PST.
Dallas Cowboys
Guess who's back? Not Slim Shady but the ever-loving Rain Man himself - Adam 'not Pacman' Jones! Well it seems the gamble Jerry Jones and the 'boys took will pay off. The NFL fully reinstated Jones today and according to the Dallas Morning News , he found out while he was eating at Hooters. Classy. Seriously though, Jones was just hitting his stride when he got into huge trouble and I think that once he has some real gameplay again, he will begin to get back in the groove. Good gamble by the Cowboys if Jones keeps his nose clean and his singles in his pocket.
Indianapolis Colts
You know how I was saying last night I was going to watch this game to see if Jim Sorgi can recover from an awful preseason. He won't. Sorgi will not be playing at all since his knee is hurt. So watch as Quinn Gray and Jared 'The Hefty Lefty' Lorenzon battle to hold Manning's clipboard. We hope that Manning's back-up will be irrelevent but as the mystery around Peyton's knee deepens and people will be worrying up until kickoff of Week 1 whether he will start or not.
The best part of this? Week 1? The Colts play the Bears when? Sunday night. That's right - Manning owners may have to make a decision whether to risk losing a position if Manning does not play or putting their back-up in to play it safe but missing a good Manning game.
We'll talk about this a ton next week on the podcast both here and the at The Drive Block. Heck if it's still this murky next Friday, I'll definitely give you my thoughts on the blog as well.
Baltimore Ravens
So a lot of folks have been pushing for Willis McGahee to not only lose the #1 gig to Ray Rice but to get cut completely or traded. Chief among these folks would be the Baltimore Sun who would have run him out on a rail a week ago had they been in charge. Well, the Sun has finally admitted McGahee is unlikely to go anywhere. Now long term, he may not be there next year if Ray Rice plays like it looks like he can. But short term, if McGahee is healthy, I expect him to get most of the carries. I don't expect them to over-utilize Rice so that he burns out mid-season. And they will need to run the ball a lot given the mess of their QB situation. There's not a lot out there to acquire via Free Agency (Duante Culpepper is about it). The Sun points out if they wait until Saturday, Chris Simms may be cut my Tampa, but then they might be in a dogfight with the Cowboys and a few other teams and I don't know they can win a street fight there right now.
Miami Dolphins
Ricky Williams is the starter for tonights finale though how much work he will see is debateable as the Phins will want to see what Ronnie Brown can do. Williams will start the season as the #1 - no matter how good Brown does. But - and this is important - there will be a split from the getgo. He'll take the field first but he won't be the only back here. If Brown is lights out tonight, he will get more snaps next week. If he's average or - bite my tongue BAD - Ricky will get the majority.
Like I have said before - these guys are borderline #2,s or really #3 with upside. Treat them as such and leave yourself room to be pleasently surprised rather than annoyed because you depended upon them for too much.
That's all for now - another post a little later and don't forget The Drive Block on BlogTalkRadio tonight at 10pm EST/7pm PST.
Dallas Cowboys
Guess who's back? Not Slim Shady but the ever-loving Rain Man himself - Adam 'not Pacman' Jones! Well it seems the gamble Jerry Jones and the 'boys took will pay off. The NFL fully reinstated Jones today and according to the Dallas Morning News , he found out while he was eating at Hooters. Classy. Seriously though, Jones was just hitting his stride when he got into huge trouble and I think that once he has some real gameplay again, he will begin to get back in the groove. Good gamble by the Cowboys if Jones keeps his nose clean and his singles in his pocket.
Indianapolis Colts
You know how I was saying last night I was going to watch this game to see if Jim Sorgi can recover from an awful preseason. He won't. Sorgi will not be playing at all since his knee is hurt. So watch as Quinn Gray and Jared 'The Hefty Lefty' Lorenzon battle to hold Manning's clipboard. We hope that Manning's back-up will be irrelevent but as the mystery around Peyton's knee deepens and people will be worrying up until kickoff of Week 1 whether he will start or not.
The best part of this? Week 1? The Colts play the Bears when? Sunday night. That's right - Manning owners may have to make a decision whether to risk losing a position if Manning does not play or putting their back-up in to play it safe but missing a good Manning game.
We'll talk about this a ton next week on the podcast both here and the at The Drive Block. Heck if it's still this murky next Friday, I'll definitely give you my thoughts on the blog as well.
Baltimore Ravens
So a lot of folks have been pushing for Willis McGahee to not only lose the #1 gig to Ray Rice but to get cut completely or traded. Chief among these folks would be the Baltimore Sun who would have run him out on a rail a week ago had they been in charge. Well, the Sun has finally admitted McGahee is unlikely to go anywhere. Now long term, he may not be there next year if Ray Rice plays like it looks like he can. But short term, if McGahee is healthy, I expect him to get most of the carries. I don't expect them to over-utilize Rice so that he burns out mid-season. And they will need to run the ball a lot given the mess of their QB situation. There's not a lot out there to acquire via Free Agency (Duante Culpepper is about it). The Sun points out if they wait until Saturday, Chris Simms may be cut my Tampa, but then they might be in a dogfight with the Cowboys and a few other teams and I don't know they can win a street fight there right now.
Miami Dolphins
Ricky Williams is the starter for tonights finale though how much work he will see is debateable as the Phins will want to see what Ronnie Brown can do. Williams will start the season as the #1 - no matter how good Brown does. But - and this is important - there will be a split from the getgo. He'll take the field first but he won't be the only back here. If Brown is lights out tonight, he will get more snaps next week. If he's average or - bite my tongue BAD - Ricky will get the majority.
Like I have said before - these guys are borderline #2,s or really #3 with upside. Treat them as such and leave yourself room to be pleasently surprised rather than annoyed because you depended upon them for too much.
That's all for now - another post a little later and don't forget The Drive Block on BlogTalkRadio tonight at 10pm EST/7pm PST.
Belated Thursday Stampede
The Blurb Herd is a little tired after last night's little BlogTalk technology explosion, so we're running a tad behind.
Luckily it's not like we've had huge news yet today - it's no like LT retired or somethign this morning.
Still there was a little bit of movement here and there:
Of course, as we knew, guys like Ben Roethlisberger, Brett Favre and Marc Bulger will not be playing in their preseason finale.
Guys like Trent Green, Byron Leftwich and Kellen Clemens will.
Still, as I said on last night's Thundering Blurb Fantasy Football Podcast, there are still reasons to watch and position battles to be won.
In more direct news -
Kansas City Chiefs
Larry Johnson will see action vs the Rams even though he has already seen a bunch of work in the preseason. He hasn't been tremendously sharp though and I think they would like him to spring into the season on a high note.
Jacksonville Jaguars
We keep talking about how we don't know who will catch balls in Jacksonville, but we do know that Troy Williamson hasn't caught ANY balls this preseason. He needs a big night to have an impact this season - or maybe even stick on the team at all. Matt Jones and Mike Walker are holding the seast warm for Jerry Porter and Reggie Williams and it still tells me very little of whether any of these guys will have an impact. Garrard will spread the ball around and like I have said before, put up good numbers himself but probably not have that 1 WR who will make your Fantasy team happy.
Green Bay Packers
Ryan Grant is another RB who will see some time tonight. This will make the game a little more interesting to watch and unlike the Larry Johnson thing, is less of a shock. Grant missed a bunch of the preseason and needs the work. he won't be out there too long, but he'll get some work and maybe widen the gap between himself and Brandon Jackson a little more.
That's all for now - will be back this afternoon with some more news. And don't forget to check out The Drive Block on BlogTalkRadio.com tonight with myself and the Footballguys' own Cecil Lammey and Sigmund Bloom. That's 7pm PST/10pm EST.
Luckily it's not like we've had huge news yet today - it's no like LT retired or somethign this morning.
Still there was a little bit of movement here and there:
Of course, as we knew, guys like Ben Roethlisberger, Brett Favre and Marc Bulger will not be playing in their preseason finale.
Guys like Trent Green, Byron Leftwich and Kellen Clemens will.
Still, as I said on last night's Thundering Blurb Fantasy Football Podcast, there are still reasons to watch and position battles to be won.
In more direct news -
Kansas City Chiefs
Larry Johnson will see action vs the Rams even though he has already seen a bunch of work in the preseason. He hasn't been tremendously sharp though and I think they would like him to spring into the season on a high note.
Jacksonville Jaguars
We keep talking about how we don't know who will catch balls in Jacksonville, but we do know that Troy Williamson hasn't caught ANY balls this preseason. He needs a big night to have an impact this season - or maybe even stick on the team at all. Matt Jones and Mike Walker are holding the seast warm for Jerry Porter and Reggie Williams and it still tells me very little of whether any of these guys will have an impact. Garrard will spread the ball around and like I have said before, put up good numbers himself but probably not have that 1 WR who will make your Fantasy team happy.
Green Bay Packers
Ryan Grant is another RB who will see some time tonight. This will make the game a little more interesting to watch and unlike the Larry Johnson thing, is less of a shock. Grant missed a bunch of the preseason and needs the work. he won't be out there too long, but he'll get some work and maybe widen the gap between himself and Brandon Jackson a little more.
That's all for now - will be back this afternoon with some more news. And don't forget to check out The Drive Block on BlogTalkRadio.com tonight with myself and the Footballguys' own Cecil Lammey and Sigmund Bloom. That's 7pm PST/10pm EST.
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Show Notes and News
Hey folks
So I just finished editing and re-uploading the Thundering Blurb Fantasy Podcast. There were some massive technical difficulties and I had to download the show, edit out about 20 minutes of silence, then reupload it - all of which took about 2hours.
If you tried to listen to the show earlier than midnight Wednesday night - give it another shot sometime Thursday and you should be good to go.
They are getting the bugs out now, so this should be unlikely to repeat in the season.
Some late news - the lateness of the hour may make tomorrow's initial update a little tardy itself.
I'll make it up to you baby, I swear!
News and Notes
Atlanta Falcons
Matt Ryan, Brian Finneran and DJ Shockley were involved in a car accident Wednesday but nobody was hurt - they were rear ended at a stop light in slippery and wet conditions. They made the team's plane for Baltimore and I think Art Blank just about had a heart attack.
Baltimore Ravens
Chris Mortenson is at it again - although he's probably right on this one for sure. Looks like the earlier report that Kyle Boller might have a torn labrum and the Ravens are hoping soem rest and rehab might do the trick as surgery will end his season in all likelihood. In a move sure to salve all Raven-fan's worry, they claimed QB Casey Bramlet off waivers from San Diego. Yup, THAT Casey Bramlet. Wait, you don't know who he is? He's.... um, hold on.... he's uh - oh yeah, he was a former World Bowl MVP who was picked by the Bengals in 2004.
How could this team be interested in John Beck when they have Bramlet? Know what this smells like? Disaster. If the Ravens don't do something soon, this season is going to go very, very badly. Hope Troy Smith's tonsils get better soon.
Houston Texans
In a move to save his rear from the firing squad, Ahman Green has restructured his contract. He's taking a lot less money, but if he plays a lot this season, he can earn a ton more money.
Yup, I don't believe he'll see a dime either. I love Ahman Green's fire and heart - but his body just doesn't hold up anymore. He'll hang around this year - with little no no fantasy value mind you - and then probably call it a day.
And 2 hours of Lammey is a lot of Lammey - you get your money's worth.
So I just finished editing and re-uploading the Thundering Blurb Fantasy Podcast. There were some massive technical difficulties and I had to download the show, edit out about 20 minutes of silence, then reupload it - all of which took about 2hours.
If you tried to listen to the show earlier than midnight Wednesday night - give it another shot sometime Thursday and you should be good to go.
They are getting the bugs out now, so this should be unlikely to repeat in the season.
Some late news - the lateness of the hour may make tomorrow's initial update a little tardy itself.
I'll make it up to you baby, I swear!
News and Notes
Atlanta Falcons
Matt Ryan, Brian Finneran and DJ Shockley were involved in a car accident Wednesday but nobody was hurt - they were rear ended at a stop light in slippery and wet conditions. They made the team's plane for Baltimore and I think Art Blank just about had a heart attack.
Baltimore Ravens
Chris Mortenson is at it again - although he's probably right on this one for sure. Looks like the earlier report that Kyle Boller might have a torn labrum and the Ravens are hoping soem rest and rehab might do the trick as surgery will end his season in all likelihood. In a move sure to salve all Raven-fan's worry, they claimed QB Casey Bramlet off waivers from San Diego. Yup, THAT Casey Bramlet. Wait, you don't know who he is? He's.... um, hold on.... he's uh - oh yeah, he was a former World Bowl MVP who was picked by the Bengals in 2004.
How could this team be interested in John Beck when they have Bramlet? Know what this smells like? Disaster. If the Ravens don't do something soon, this season is going to go very, very badly. Hope Troy Smith's tonsils get better soon.
Houston Texans
In a move to save his rear from the firing squad, Ahman Green has restructured his contract. He's taking a lot less money, but if he plays a lot this season, he can earn a ton more money.
Yup, I don't believe he'll see a dime either. I love Ahman Green's fire and heart - but his body just doesn't hold up anymore. He'll hang around this year - with little no no fantasy value mind you - and then probably call it a day.
And 2 hours of Lammey is a lot of Lammey - you get your money's worth.
Wednesday Stampede
The first round of cuts have happened and teams have begun figuring out who will be able to contribute this year - as well as who they will try to sneak onto the practice squad.
A couple of straggling cuts:
Chiefs: waived OT Ken Shackleford and placed WR Kevin Robinson (knee) on the PUP list.
Lions: K Dave Rayner and DE Claude Harriott were released.
Redskins:re-signed LB Danny Verdun-Wheeler and waived WR Burl Toler.
Texans: placed OL Scott Jackson (foot) on injured reserve, ending his season.
Here's this mornings round-up of news.
Jacksonville Jaguars
Rookie defensive lineman Derrick Harvey has finally signed and will report to camp. His 33 day holdout will probably kill any IDP value he had this year and while he will have a shot to start, probably will be rotated in and out of the game too much and have too steep a learning curve to contribute in a big way. Missing the whole of camp will set him back this year, though he will become an impact player down the road.
Baltimore Ravens
Let's check the damage out at QB - Troy Smith has been out with tonsillitis. Joe Flacco is raw, with a big arm but much to learn. And now, according to the Carroll County Times , there is a fear that Kyle Boller could be done for the year with a fairly serious shoulder injury. The first set of MRIs taken don't look good and if Boller goes down, some lucky journeyman QB may get a phone call. Vinny Testeverde anyone? Best bet is that if Troy Smith can get back on his feet, he's the guy, but I don't love this group of QBs and wouldn't even want them as parts of a QBBC. Not thrilled with the WRs or Todd Heap either, in part because of this sort of stuff. Ray Rice may be the only fantasy option here and you can expect him to wear down towards he end of the season - assuming McGahee doesn't just show up and take his job back.
Tennesse Titans
Everyone is talking about rookie Chris Johnson and the immediate impact he can have here this year and consequently, everyone is also talking a lot of gloom and doom regarding LenDale White. As we spoke about on last week's Drive Block (and if you missed it, check it out on ITunes, or to the right of this column), it may not be a bad thing for White to split carries. I don't think it will happen week 1 and furthermore, I don't think Johnson's strength is running between the tackles. White will get a lot more of those carries - Johnson will see a lot of his work on the outside and in the receiving game. Plenty of value for both. In fact, with that core of WRs, Johnson may end up splitting out wide more than the Titans are thinking right now.
Both are good fantasy options - Johnson as a marginal #2 or a #3 with huge upside and White as a #2 who may taper off later this season. And of course, if you're looking to clear a buffet, well, White's your #1 pick. (That was for Cecil.)
Indianapolis Colts
Is it time to get nervous? Had you been nervous already about Manning? No? Well then, suck on this: According to a report on the Associated Press, Manning won't begin fully practicing until next Wednesday. While he's been doing limited work the past week, he hasn't been running them fully and certainly hasn't had any contact.
It's not as bad as it sounds. First of all, we're talking Peyton freaking Manning - he could miss OTAs, minicamps, Preseason and most regular season practices and be just fine (excuse the hyperbole). Secondly, this is The Franchise here - they will handle him like a China Doll until they have to throw him into a game and be cautious with him. Now, will he miss Week 1? Maybe. And that's why if you got Manning in your draft, it better be no earlier than the second and you'd better get a quality back-up - something you never had to worry about before. Don't bother with Sorgi - he's a mess. I think you need to be looking at someone at least in the Garrard area and I would be tempted to reach for a guy in the Roethlisberger range instead. Worst comes to worst, he's quality trade bait. But if Manning takes an extra week or two, you will be happy you have him. Problem is, he's goign to cause you to go too early for your backup.
And for that reason, this may be the year to let Manning pass you in the 2nd and go another direction.
Cleveland Browns
Derek Anderson's concussion is still affecting him, according to Profootballtalk.com . Apparently he is still sensitive to light and feelign some other after effects. Not uncommon after getting your bell rung - I've had a few concussions and it can take a little while to get your head back together. He'll sit this week - I'd say for sure, though the team is hedging - and could miss week 1. Watch Brady Quinn closely - if Anderson sits for Week 1, it could be a rough week for all the growing team of studs the Browns have: Edwards, Winslow, Lewis and even potential impact players like Donte Stallworth. We can only hope that Quinn is ready for Prime Time and that the O-line plays like I hope it will. I think the studs in Cleveland will play well with Quinn, but until I see more of him, he makes me extremely nervous. Completing 14 passes for 106 yards is ok, but he only put together one scoring drive and started out slow. He's got work to do and as much as I was not sold on Anderson as joining the Elite Fantasy QBs, I know Quinn isn't there yet. Still, he has the weapons and the tools. I wouldn't play him - but I will gamble that he keeps Edwards & Co. valuable.
Carolina Panthers
We have a DJ Hackett sighting! Yes folks, the high-upside but oft-injured WR is running on the sidelines! Huzzah! He may even be ready for week 1! In all seriousness, the Panthers need him to be if they are going through with the Steve Smith suspension. He'll start opposite Muhsin Muhammad during the two game sit-down and would have a great deal of value to start the season off. But once again, his health has been his downfall. Hackett is very talented but he just can't stay on the field. I have loved his upside for several years but am now far too concerned with his injury history to rely on him, nor grab him as an overall #3 or 4 WR - if not just use him for bench depth. One day he may show us what he is capable of. But I have to say, I am dubious whether he will be able to sieze the opportunity before him early this season.
Grab him late - he has the upside - but be prepared to have him on the bench more often than your lineup.
That's it for now - remember tonight at 9pm EST/6pm PST The Thundering Blurb Fantasy Football Podcast will be coming at you on BlogTalkRadio.com and we'll catch you up on the news and notes going int othe final preseason games.
Back more later with news and some straggling cuts....
A couple of straggling cuts:
Chiefs: waived OT Ken Shackleford and placed WR Kevin Robinson (knee) on the PUP list.
Lions: K Dave Rayner and DE Claude Harriott were released.
Redskins:re-signed LB Danny Verdun-Wheeler and waived WR Burl Toler.
Texans: placed OL Scott Jackson (foot) on injured reserve, ending his season.
Here's this mornings round-up of news.
Jacksonville Jaguars
Rookie defensive lineman Derrick Harvey has finally signed and will report to camp. His 33 day holdout will probably kill any IDP value he had this year and while he will have a shot to start, probably will be rotated in and out of the game too much and have too steep a learning curve to contribute in a big way. Missing the whole of camp will set him back this year, though he will become an impact player down the road.
Baltimore Ravens
Let's check the damage out at QB - Troy Smith has been out with tonsillitis. Joe Flacco is raw, with a big arm but much to learn. And now, according to the Carroll County Times , there is a fear that Kyle Boller could be done for the year with a fairly serious shoulder injury. The first set of MRIs taken don't look good and if Boller goes down, some lucky journeyman QB may get a phone call. Vinny Testeverde anyone? Best bet is that if Troy Smith can get back on his feet, he's the guy, but I don't love this group of QBs and wouldn't even want them as parts of a QBBC. Not thrilled with the WRs or Todd Heap either, in part because of this sort of stuff. Ray Rice may be the only fantasy option here and you can expect him to wear down towards he end of the season - assuming McGahee doesn't just show up and take his job back.
Tennesse Titans
Everyone is talking about rookie Chris Johnson and the immediate impact he can have here this year and consequently, everyone is also talking a lot of gloom and doom regarding LenDale White. As we spoke about on last week's Drive Block (and if you missed it, check it out on ITunes, or to the right of this column), it may not be a bad thing for White to split carries. I don't think it will happen week 1 and furthermore, I don't think Johnson's strength is running between the tackles. White will get a lot more of those carries - Johnson will see a lot of his work on the outside and in the receiving game. Plenty of value for both. In fact, with that core of WRs, Johnson may end up splitting out wide more than the Titans are thinking right now.
Both are good fantasy options - Johnson as a marginal #2 or a #3 with huge upside and White as a #2 who may taper off later this season. And of course, if you're looking to clear a buffet, well, White's your #1 pick. (That was for Cecil.)
Indianapolis Colts
Is it time to get nervous? Had you been nervous already about Manning? No? Well then, suck on this: According to a report on the Associated Press, Manning won't begin fully practicing until next Wednesday. While he's been doing limited work the past week, he hasn't been running them fully and certainly hasn't had any contact.
It's not as bad as it sounds. First of all, we're talking Peyton freaking Manning - he could miss OTAs, minicamps, Preseason and most regular season practices and be just fine (excuse the hyperbole). Secondly, this is The Franchise here - they will handle him like a China Doll until they have to throw him into a game and be cautious with him. Now, will he miss Week 1? Maybe. And that's why if you got Manning in your draft, it better be no earlier than the second and you'd better get a quality back-up - something you never had to worry about before. Don't bother with Sorgi - he's a mess. I think you need to be looking at someone at least in the Garrard area and I would be tempted to reach for a guy in the Roethlisberger range instead. Worst comes to worst, he's quality trade bait. But if Manning takes an extra week or two, you will be happy you have him. Problem is, he's goign to cause you to go too early for your backup.
And for that reason, this may be the year to let Manning pass you in the 2nd and go another direction.
Cleveland Browns
Derek Anderson's concussion is still affecting him, according to Profootballtalk.com . Apparently he is still sensitive to light and feelign some other after effects. Not uncommon after getting your bell rung - I've had a few concussions and it can take a little while to get your head back together. He'll sit this week - I'd say for sure, though the team is hedging - and could miss week 1. Watch Brady Quinn closely - if Anderson sits for Week 1, it could be a rough week for all the growing team of studs the Browns have: Edwards, Winslow, Lewis and even potential impact players like Donte Stallworth. We can only hope that Quinn is ready for Prime Time and that the O-line plays like I hope it will. I think the studs in Cleveland will play well with Quinn, but until I see more of him, he makes me extremely nervous. Completing 14 passes for 106 yards is ok, but he only put together one scoring drive and started out slow. He's got work to do and as much as I was not sold on Anderson as joining the Elite Fantasy QBs, I know Quinn isn't there yet. Still, he has the weapons and the tools. I wouldn't play him - but I will gamble that he keeps Edwards & Co. valuable.
Carolina Panthers
We have a DJ Hackett sighting! Yes folks, the high-upside but oft-injured WR is running on the sidelines! Huzzah! He may even be ready for week 1! In all seriousness, the Panthers need him to be if they are going through with the Steve Smith suspension. He'll start opposite Muhsin Muhammad during the two game sit-down and would have a great deal of value to start the season off. But once again, his health has been his downfall. Hackett is very talented but he just can't stay on the field. I have loved his upside for several years but am now far too concerned with his injury history to rely on him, nor grab him as an overall #3 or 4 WR - if not just use him for bench depth. One day he may show us what he is capable of. But I have to say, I am dubious whether he will be able to sieze the opportunity before him early this season.
Grab him late - he has the upside - but be prepared to have him on the bench more often than your lineup.
That's it for now - remember tonight at 9pm EST/6pm PST The Thundering Blurb Fantasy Football Podcast will be coming at you on BlogTalkRadio.com and we'll catch you up on the news and notes going int othe final preseason games.
Back more later with news and some straggling cuts....
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
More cuts on Black Tuesday
More cut updates - remember Saturday is the big day and lots of platyers will drop. I have high hopes that Blurb faves Steve Johnson (BUF), Joey LaRocque (CHI) and Josh Johnson (TB) will be on the squads on opening day.
49ers DT Joe Cohen, TE Cooper Wallace, S Lewis Baker, QB Kyle Wright, G John Booker
Bills DB Kennard Cox, WR C.J. Hawthorne, P D.J. Fitzpatrick, DE Shaun Nua
Bucs WR Paris Warren, LB Antoine Cash, S Donte Nicholson
Added players from earlier:
Texans - OL Scott Jackson (foot) onto IR
More should be coming - and Saturday could be brutal. Again, props to jeter23 over at the footballguys.com message board whose list thread is pinned at top and has been where I am going to make sure I miss nobody.
Other notes of notes -
Cincinnati Bengals
According to HC Marvin Lewis, Jerome Simpson could open the season as the Begnal's #3 WR. that's a huge turn of events from earlier this preseason, when Simpson was struggling. How much this will pay off will depend on two things - the health of the Dynamic Duo (Housh and CJ) and if Ben Utecht puts up numbers like we expect/hope at TE. Late pick at best.
Arizona Cardinals
Regardless of ESPN, Chris Mortenson and John Clayton, HC Whisenhunt says he won't decide until post-Thursday's game as the starter. I am not a big fan of this situation and frankly, don't know who will end up any week as the starter. Leinart better look nails this week though, or Mort will be right and Whisenhunt - and myself - will be eating crow.
Green Bay Packers
HC Mike McCarthy is talking about decresing Grant's carries over the season, I assume to integrate Brandon Jackson into the game mroe. It doesn't kill Grant's value, but it will lessen the chances he ends the season in the top 10.
Denver Broncos
Brandon Marshall is in NY to protest his suspension - hoping to knock a game off the total 2-3 game time. This has a big impact on rookie Eddie Royal. Royal will be a starter during the time Marshall being suspended and will put up good numbers during that time, so every game counts. He should be ok throughout the year BUT he needs some time to lock that #2
spot up - he's a borderline 3/4 now and will probably be no more than that.
That's it for now - we're back at 6:30am PST/9:30am EST for the morning post and remember the Thundering Blurb Fantasy Football Podcast is back tomorrow night at 6pm PST/9pm EST.
Also, tonight we rebooted the BlogTalkRadio fantasy draft and actually got through it with minimal pain - I'll talk a little about it tomorrow here or on the show.
Have a good night.
49ers DT Joe Cohen, TE Cooper Wallace, S Lewis Baker, QB Kyle Wright, G John Booker
Bills DB Kennard Cox, WR C.J. Hawthorne, P D.J. Fitzpatrick, DE Shaun Nua
Bucs WR Paris Warren, LB Antoine Cash, S Donte Nicholson
Added players from earlier:
Texans - OL Scott Jackson (foot) onto IR
More should be coming - and Saturday could be brutal. Again, props to jeter23 over at the footballguys.com message board whose list thread is pinned at top and has been where I am going to make sure I miss nobody.
Other notes of notes -
Cincinnati Bengals
According to HC Marvin Lewis, Jerome Simpson could open the season as the Begnal's #3 WR. that's a huge turn of events from earlier this preseason, when Simpson was struggling. How much this will pay off will depend on two things - the health of the Dynamic Duo (Housh and CJ) and if Ben Utecht puts up numbers like we expect/hope at TE. Late pick at best.
Arizona Cardinals
Regardless of ESPN, Chris Mortenson and John Clayton, HC Whisenhunt says he won't decide until post-Thursday's game as the starter. I am not a big fan of this situation and frankly, don't know who will end up any week as the starter. Leinart better look nails this week though, or Mort will be right and Whisenhunt - and myself - will be eating crow.
Green Bay Packers
HC Mike McCarthy is talking about decresing Grant's carries over the season, I assume to integrate Brandon Jackson into the game mroe. It doesn't kill Grant's value, but it will lessen the chances he ends the season in the top 10.
Denver Broncos
Brandon Marshall is in NY to protest his suspension - hoping to knock a game off the total 2-3 game time. This has a big impact on rookie Eddie Royal. Royal will be a starter during the time Marshall being suspended and will put up good numbers during that time, so every game counts. He should be ok throughout the year BUT he needs some time to lock that #2
spot up - he's a borderline 3/4 now and will probably be no more than that.
That's it for now - we're back at 6:30am PST/9:30am EST for the morning post and remember the Thundering Blurb Fantasy Football Podcast is back tomorrow night at 6pm PST/9pm EST.
Also, tonight we rebooted the BlogTalkRadio fantasy draft and actually got through it with minimal pain - I'll talk a little about it tomorrow here or on the show.
Have a good night.
Cut Days Are Upon Us
Here in NFL-land, teams have begun cutting the chaff from the wheat - or is it wheat from the chaff? Whatever, dead weight is being expunged today and on Saturday.
Here is a list, compiled from various sources of the teams who have made cuts so far. Special props to jeter23 over at the FBGs Shark Pool who started the template I have based this on pretty much totally.
Bears WR Marcus Monk
Broncos WR Samie Parker, DL Josh Mallard, WR Lorne Sam
Cards WR Jemalle Cornelius, CB Marcus Brown, C Hercules Satele, DL Bryan Robinson
Chiefs LB/FB Oliver Hoyte, DE Trevor Johnson
Colts CB TJ Rushing(#1 punt and kick returner), TE Zac Herold were moved to the IR, RB Clifton Dawson, LB Marcus Richardson, P/K Adam Crossett were cut
Cowboys FB Ronnie Cruz, CB Quincy Butler, QB Jeff Terrell, P Jay Ottovegio, WR Daniel Polk
Falcons DT Trey Lewis to non-football injury reserve list and OL Renardo Foster and of course WR Joe Horn last week
Giants WR DJ Hall, S Craig Dahl, S Miguel Scott, WR Michael Jennings
Jags OL Chris Liwienski, WRs John Broussard, Clyde Edwards, Jeron Harvey, DL Alex Boston
Jets RB Musa Smith, S Ron Girault, RB Rodney Kinlaw, OT Thaddeus Coleman
Lions K Dave Rayner, CB Stephen Howell, LB Tyrone Pruitt, G Carroll Madison, and DE Claude Harriott
Packers RB DeShawn Wynn, RB Ryan Powdrell, WR Chris Francies, OL Ryan Consodine
Panthers QB Lester Ricard, CB Curtis DeLoatch, TE Chris Conklin, DE Casper Brinkley
Raiders S Jarrod Cooper, DL Greg Spires, and LB Grant Irons
Redskins LB Matt Sinclair, S Vernon Fox, WR Burl Toler, DT Babatunde Oshinowo, DE Dorian Smith
Saints FB Kevin Dudley, WR Todd Blythe, S Curome Cox, C Rob Hunt, P Waylon Prather
Steelers WR Jeremy Bloom, QB Mike Potts, DL Martavius Prince
Texans FB Jameel Cook
Titans DT Barry Booker, T Brandon Torrey, WR Chris Davis (WFU), LB Jorge Cordova,
Vikings LB Derrick Pope, WR Daniel Davis, OLs Sean Dumford and Brock Pasteur
Some teams I haven't see cuts for yet include the 49rs, the Bills, the Pats and the Seahawks, though there are many teams still out there to eject people. If you hear of someone I missed or see someone you know wasn't cut, let me know (thunderingblurb@gmail.com) and I will double check and correct if need be.
Will throw out another post tonight with more cuts if I can. Keep track of these guys so you can cut off the Hail Mary picks from late in your draft and make room on your roster. A few names like Musa Smith (Jets) are a minor surprise but most won't even be ones you recognize.
Here is a list, compiled from various sources of the teams who have made cuts so far. Special props to jeter23 over at the FBGs Shark Pool who started the template I have based this on pretty much totally.
Bears WR Marcus Monk
Broncos WR Samie Parker, DL Josh Mallard, WR Lorne Sam
Cards WR Jemalle Cornelius, CB Marcus Brown, C Hercules Satele, DL Bryan Robinson
Chiefs LB/FB Oliver Hoyte, DE Trevor Johnson
Colts CB TJ Rushing(#1 punt and kick returner), TE Zac Herold were moved to the IR, RB Clifton Dawson, LB Marcus Richardson, P/K Adam Crossett were cut
Cowboys FB Ronnie Cruz, CB Quincy Butler, QB Jeff Terrell, P Jay Ottovegio, WR Daniel Polk
Falcons DT Trey Lewis to non-football injury reserve list and OL Renardo Foster and of course WR Joe Horn last week
Giants WR DJ Hall, S Craig Dahl, S Miguel Scott, WR Michael Jennings
Jags OL Chris Liwienski, WRs John Broussard, Clyde Edwards, Jeron Harvey, DL Alex Boston
Jets RB Musa Smith, S Ron Girault, RB Rodney Kinlaw, OT Thaddeus Coleman
Lions K Dave Rayner, CB Stephen Howell, LB Tyrone Pruitt, G Carroll Madison, and DE Claude Harriott
Packers RB DeShawn Wynn, RB Ryan Powdrell, WR Chris Francies, OL Ryan Consodine
Panthers QB Lester Ricard, CB Curtis DeLoatch, TE Chris Conklin, DE Casper Brinkley
Raiders S Jarrod Cooper, DL Greg Spires, and LB Grant Irons
Redskins LB Matt Sinclair, S Vernon Fox, WR Burl Toler, DT Babatunde Oshinowo, DE Dorian Smith
Saints FB Kevin Dudley, WR Todd Blythe, S Curome Cox, C Rob Hunt, P Waylon Prather
Steelers WR Jeremy Bloom, QB Mike Potts, DL Martavius Prince
Texans FB Jameel Cook
Titans DT Barry Booker, T Brandon Torrey, WR Chris Davis (WFU), LB Jorge Cordova,
Vikings LB Derrick Pope, WR Daniel Davis, OLs Sean Dumford and Brock Pasteur
Some teams I haven't see cuts for yet include the 49rs, the Bills, the Pats and the Seahawks, though there are many teams still out there to eject people. If you hear of someone I missed or see someone you know wasn't cut, let me know (thunderingblurb@gmail.com) and I will double check and correct if need be.
Will throw out another post tonight with more cuts if I can. Keep track of these guys so you can cut off the Hail Mary picks from late in your draft and make room on your roster. A few names like Musa Smith (Jets) are a minor surprise but most won't even be ones you recognize.
Favorite Quote of the Day
“If everything goes well, this will be the last time I play this year.”
- Jets back-up QB Kellen Clemens to press in the locker room regarding starting Thursday's last preseason game while starter Brett Favre sits.
Amen to that, right Jetsfan?
More news later, but I just enjoyed the quote.
Tuesday Morning Stampede
Hey folks - just a short week away from the return of actual NFL football. College gets us started this weekend, then kickoff on Thursday between Washington and the NY Giants.
Here's the morning look at the news -
Baltimore Ravens
Troy Smith has been vying for the starting QB job and looked like he might get it - until Tonsilitis derailed him. He didn't start game three and hasn't been practicing. The QB situation in Baltimore is bad and if there is any value at the WR position, this is making it hard to find. Mark Clayton is probably the guy to own here but who will throw him the ball. Smith is unproven, Flacco needs work and we all know Boller isn't the clear answer, despite good play last year. If you have to take someone, Clayton is it.
We still don't know what is going on with McGahee's knee, by the way. Ray Rice is an exciting prospect but 1) what if McGahee comes back and 2) he could wear down late in the season. Don't reach for Rice, but if he falls to you as your #3 back somewhere in the 5th - 8th, take him in smile.
Jacksonville Jaguars
MJD owners can breathe a sigh of relief (or sleep soundly at night or relax - whatever trite saying floats yoru boat) as HC Jack Del Rio says Jones-Drew's ankle is only mildly sprained. Don't expect to see him in the preseason finale at Washington, but then again, that's standard procedure for most studs on most teams. I still like Fred Taylor as a guy to shoot for in the 5th-8th rounds. Taylor has something left in the tank and while you can never count on him for TDs, he's great for yardage.
The WR core is still a shambles, though. Garrard will put up respectible numbers but who knows who is catching the ball. Porter has been hurt, Williams -despite last year- is unreliable, Troy Williamson still has hands of cement and most of the guys behind them havne't stepped up. Matt Jones has played well and probably saved his job after the cocaine fiasco a month ago, but he's burned us before, hasn't he? I wouldn't draft him.
San Diego Chargers
The Darren Sproles/Jacob Hester battle continues. After excelling at the goal line this preseason, Hester was stuffed 4 times last night, though he scored on a 5th attempt. Sproles had a huge night, carrying thw ball 13 times for 102 yards and a TD which was - you guessed it - short yardage. As we have said, if LT goes down (ok, I just got a chill typing that) these guys will likely split carries. One bad preseason game does not kille Hester after several very good games. Neither does it puff Sproles up too much. Sproles isn't an every down back, his size and skill set don't quite fit it. Could he step up? Sure. But Hester has played well enough to get a piece of the action. I like Hester as a late back-up for LT or a high upside pick. You know I hate handcuffing, but if you must, go Hester.
Seattle Seahawks
After 3 games, we still don't know who is playing around Nate Burleson (who looked pretty darn good last night. This week, it was Jordan Kent who stepped up on the stat sheet, with 4 catches for 47 yards and a TD. Kent has been very productive, though he fits into the split end position Burleson occupies and is a bit raw. Courtney Taylor only had 3 catches for24 yards, but threw a gorgeous block during Burleson's 68 yard TD. That's the sort of thing coaches love to see, as it proves you can help the run game as well as catch balls. Burleson did some nice work after the catch there as well, but Taylor just annihilated a defender.
Maurice Morris looks to have crept ahead of Julius Jones on the depth chart here in Seattle - but expect a full blown RBBC, though both backs may have some value anyway. They may not be consistent, but then again, one may break out during the season. The run game has to get going here, so the issue will get forced during the early part of the season.
Speaking of RBs -
Quick RB Notes
Mike Bush (OAK) may be getting some work at fullback - that's usually a sign he will be left out in the carries deptartmen and is not going to have much value as a RB for you..... rookie Jamall Charles (KC) is back at practice but will not overtake Kolby Smith as Larry Johnson's back-up. LJ is a guy who has been beat up the last few seasons, but his back-up is not really someone i will go out of my way to draft.... Seattle rookie full back and Blurb fave Justin Forsett fell back to earth after a good preseason. Last night he only got 9 yards on 4 carries, caught on pass and lost a fumble. He's #3 here, though I still think down the road a few seasons, he may prove to be a guy who can start... I don't buy the Rudi Johnson trade rumors out of ESPN. First off, Chris Mortenson (who I have all the respect in the world for) seems to have been off his game this year. Aside from the Favre story, we've seen him throw out some real hum-dingers (Miami trading Ronnie Brown anyone?). But beyond that, who is going to take Johnson and for what? He's been hurt since the jump last season and we've yet to see him in preseason. And with Chris Perry being a walking injury time bomb, Kenny Irons gone and very little behind them (Kenny Watson and.........?) can they afford to dump hinm? And for a 'quality wide receiver'? They could use some shoring up at WR, but I don't know who will be a guy they can get when Rudi is a big question mark and Shaun Alexander, Cedric Benson and others sit out there who might be cheaper and healthier. Of course, who really wants Benson? As I have said, between the injuries and the O-line questions, I have avoided the running backs here all Draft season and will continue to look elsewhere for my #2,s 3 or bench depth.... Speaking of Ronnie Brown, he and Ricky Williams are splitting reps in practice - exactly what we said would happen. Williams hasn't proved he can still carry a whole season and Brown is still coming along from his injury. Both are good RB3s.
OK, folks - that's it for now - will be back with more later!
Keep sending those draft questions to thunderingblurb@gmail.com - been responding to them since I got back Sunday night and will turn them around ASAP for you guys drafting up to the start of the season.
Here's the morning look at the news -
Baltimore Ravens
Troy Smith has been vying for the starting QB job and looked like he might get it - until Tonsilitis derailed him. He didn't start game three and hasn't been practicing. The QB situation in Baltimore is bad and if there is any value at the WR position, this is making it hard to find. Mark Clayton is probably the guy to own here but who will throw him the ball. Smith is unproven, Flacco needs work and we all know Boller isn't the clear answer, despite good play last year. If you have to take someone, Clayton is it.
We still don't know what is going on with McGahee's knee, by the way. Ray Rice is an exciting prospect but 1) what if McGahee comes back and 2) he could wear down late in the season. Don't reach for Rice, but if he falls to you as your #3 back somewhere in the 5th - 8th, take him in smile.
Jacksonville Jaguars
MJD owners can breathe a sigh of relief (or sleep soundly at night or relax - whatever trite saying floats yoru boat) as HC Jack Del Rio says Jones-Drew's ankle is only mildly sprained. Don't expect to see him in the preseason finale at Washington, but then again, that's standard procedure for most studs on most teams. I still like Fred Taylor as a guy to shoot for in the 5th-8th rounds. Taylor has something left in the tank and while you can never count on him for TDs, he's great for yardage.
The WR core is still a shambles, though. Garrard will put up respectible numbers but who knows who is catching the ball. Porter has been hurt, Williams -despite last year- is unreliable, Troy Williamson still has hands of cement and most of the guys behind them havne't stepped up. Matt Jones has played well and probably saved his job after the cocaine fiasco a month ago, but he's burned us before, hasn't he? I wouldn't draft him.
San Diego Chargers
The Darren Sproles/Jacob Hester battle continues. After excelling at the goal line this preseason, Hester was stuffed 4 times last night, though he scored on a 5th attempt. Sproles had a huge night, carrying thw ball 13 times for 102 yards and a TD which was - you guessed it - short yardage. As we have said, if LT goes down (ok, I just got a chill typing that) these guys will likely split carries. One bad preseason game does not kille Hester after several very good games. Neither does it puff Sproles up too much. Sproles isn't an every down back, his size and skill set don't quite fit it. Could he step up? Sure. But Hester has played well enough to get a piece of the action. I like Hester as a late back-up for LT or a high upside pick. You know I hate handcuffing, but if you must, go Hester.
Seattle Seahawks
After 3 games, we still don't know who is playing around Nate Burleson (who looked pretty darn good last night. This week, it was Jordan Kent who stepped up on the stat sheet, with 4 catches for 47 yards and a TD. Kent has been very productive, though he fits into the split end position Burleson occupies and is a bit raw. Courtney Taylor only had 3 catches for24 yards, but threw a gorgeous block during Burleson's 68 yard TD. That's the sort of thing coaches love to see, as it proves you can help the run game as well as catch balls. Burleson did some nice work after the catch there as well, but Taylor just annihilated a defender.
Maurice Morris looks to have crept ahead of Julius Jones on the depth chart here in Seattle - but expect a full blown RBBC, though both backs may have some value anyway. They may not be consistent, but then again, one may break out during the season. The run game has to get going here, so the issue will get forced during the early part of the season.
Speaking of RBs -
Quick RB Notes
Mike Bush (OAK) may be getting some work at fullback - that's usually a sign he will be left out in the carries deptartmen and is not going to have much value as a RB for you..... rookie Jamall Charles (KC) is back at practice but will not overtake Kolby Smith as Larry Johnson's back-up. LJ is a guy who has been beat up the last few seasons, but his back-up is not really someone i will go out of my way to draft.... Seattle rookie full back and Blurb fave Justin Forsett fell back to earth after a good preseason. Last night he only got 9 yards on 4 carries, caught on pass and lost a fumble. He's #3 here, though I still think down the road a few seasons, he may prove to be a guy who can start... I don't buy the Rudi Johnson trade rumors out of ESPN. First off, Chris Mortenson (who I have all the respect in the world for) seems to have been off his game this year. Aside from the Favre story, we've seen him throw out some real hum-dingers (Miami trading Ronnie Brown anyone?). But beyond that, who is going to take Johnson and for what? He's been hurt since the jump last season and we've yet to see him in preseason. And with Chris Perry being a walking injury time bomb, Kenny Irons gone and very little behind them (Kenny Watson and.........?) can they afford to dump hinm? And for a 'quality wide receiver'? They could use some shoring up at WR, but I don't know who will be a guy they can get when Rudi is a big question mark and Shaun Alexander, Cedric Benson and others sit out there who might be cheaper and healthier. Of course, who really wants Benson? As I have said, between the injuries and the O-line questions, I have avoided the running backs here all Draft season and will continue to look elsewhere for my #2,s 3 or bench depth.... Speaking of Ronnie Brown, he and Ricky Williams are splitting reps in practice - exactly what we said would happen. Williams hasn't proved he can still carry a whole season and Brown is still coming along from his injury. Both are good RB3s.
OK, folks - that's it for now - will be back with more later!
Keep sending those draft questions to thunderingblurb@gmail.com - been responding to them since I got back Sunday night and will turn them around ASAP for you guys drafting up to the start of the season.
Monday, August 25, 2008
The Lost blog
Unfortunately I ain't talking about the TV show. Blogger or my computer or something just wiped out the post I made and I can tell you - it was the greatest thing ever written.
But here are the quick hits on it:
Warner vs Leinart
I wouldn't touch this with a ten foot pole. Yes, Matty L looked BAD this weekend. Yes, Warner can throw deep TDs. He also threw 17 INTs last year. Leinart didn't throw an INT until this weekend and Warner hasn't been Joe Montana in play so far. Honestly, Warner might be better from a fantasy perspective but he's also going top make you pay if you get dinged for INTs.
And as HC Whisenhunt took issue with ESPN's Chris Mortenson's assumption Warner will be the starter, I'm wary of getting stuck with the wrong guy post-draft.
Chad Johnson
I love Chad - I mean as a journalist how could you not?' 'I need surgery, but I won't get it because I really don't need it?' It's not an exact quote but darn close. What's not to love about Ocho Cinco?
Well, the fact that the shoulder could pop out again is a concern. That happens and if things tear too hard - well, bye for the season. The more you dislocate the easier it is to do and the more damage you do. If he can make it through the season he's going to have tremendous value - I snagged him as a 3rd WR in a 12 team experts league - round 4. The key is - and this is critical - you have to cover your rear and make sure the WRs behind him are stable.
So don't worry abouttaking him after you have at least your stud WR - if he drops like he has and you cover yourself, you can reap the benefits when he plays and protect yourself in case he can't.
I think Johnson wants to play, probably can play but is likely to get hit hard and could miss games here and there. So no #1 WR spot for him, but plenty of value anyway.
Preseason = Injury-palooza
Merriman, Osi Umenyiora, Jason Taylor, Chad Johnson - the list goes on. Every year we hear about the injuries, every year someone critical goes down and every season a Fantasy Team gets nailed.
Now, this is reason #1 why you wait as long as you can for drafting a redraft league - just too much goes on. If you grabbed the Chargers or Giants D early, you may have a real issue. Merriman's impact on that D is huge. Umenyiora's injury has the Giants scrambling, moving players around and are calling Strahan. But of course, they draft to be deep - rotating lineman and linebackers in and out throughout the game. So it might only make them stumble.
Will we see a decrease in the amount of games? I can't say - there's a lot of cash wrapped up in the preseason.
We'll have an early post tomorrow (shooting for 6:30 amPST/9am EST) and will be back on track all week so you're ready to go Week 1.
But here are the quick hits on it:
Warner vs Leinart
I wouldn't touch this with a ten foot pole. Yes, Matty L looked BAD this weekend. Yes, Warner can throw deep TDs. He also threw 17 INTs last year. Leinart didn't throw an INT until this weekend and Warner hasn't been Joe Montana in play so far. Honestly, Warner might be better from a fantasy perspective but he's also going top make you pay if you get dinged for INTs.
And as HC Whisenhunt took issue with ESPN's Chris Mortenson's assumption Warner will be the starter, I'm wary of getting stuck with the wrong guy post-draft.
Chad Johnson
I love Chad - I mean as a journalist how could you not?' 'I need surgery, but I won't get it because I really don't need it?' It's not an exact quote but darn close. What's not to love about Ocho Cinco?
Well, the fact that the shoulder could pop out again is a concern. That happens and if things tear too hard - well, bye for the season. The more you dislocate the easier it is to do and the more damage you do. If he can make it through the season he's going to have tremendous value - I snagged him as a 3rd WR in a 12 team experts league - round 4. The key is - and this is critical - you have to cover your rear and make sure the WRs behind him are stable.
So don't worry abouttaking him after you have at least your stud WR - if he drops like he has and you cover yourself, you can reap the benefits when he plays and protect yourself in case he can't.
I think Johnson wants to play, probably can play but is likely to get hit hard and could miss games here and there. So no #1 WR spot for him, but plenty of value anyway.
Preseason = Injury-palooza
Merriman, Osi Umenyiora, Jason Taylor, Chad Johnson - the list goes on. Every year we hear about the injuries, every year someone critical goes down and every season a Fantasy Team gets nailed.
Now, this is reason #1 why you wait as long as you can for drafting a redraft league - just too much goes on. If you grabbed the Chargers or Giants D early, you may have a real issue. Merriman's impact on that D is huge. Umenyiora's injury has the Giants scrambling, moving players around and are calling Strahan. But of course, they draft to be deep - rotating lineman and linebackers in and out throughout the game. So it might only make them stumble.
Will we see a decrease in the amount of games? I can't say - there's a lot of cash wrapped up in the preseason.
We'll have an early post tomorrow (shooting for 6:30 amPST/9am EST) and will be back on track all week so you're ready to go Week 1.
We're BACK!
Well most of us. I am understanding there may still be a man down in Las Vegas, but I am back and the Blurb is back and happy to be here.
I have a ton of emails from you guys and am getting through them now - so I will do it as quickly as I can. I got in much later last night than I anticipated, so I am behind.
Here's the loose schedule for this week, followed by the season schedule which may be subject to change.
This week:
Fall Schedule
More news shortly, after lunch.
Also - a quick hello to anyone I met in Vegas who is checking out the blog. I met a ton of people who were fantasy owners or knew people who were. It was a good time and I welcome anyone to the blog coming from Sin City.
I have a ton of emails from you guys and am getting through them now - so I will do it as quickly as I can. I got in much later last night than I anticipated, so I am behind.
Here's the loose schedule for this week, followed by the season schedule which may be subject to change.
This week:
- Daily Morning post - between 9am-noon EST/6am-9am PST
- Several updates during the day depending upon news
- Wednesday - 6pm PST/9pm EST - The Thundering Blurb Fantasy Football Podcast on BlogTalkRadio
- Thursday - 7pm PST/10pm EST - The Drive Block on BlogtalkRadio.com with Cecil Lammey and Sigmund Bloom (2 hours)
Fall Schedule
- Daily Post - @6am PST/9am EST
- Daily Live 15 minute Newscast - The Stampede - M-TH noon EST/9am PST (friday TBD)
- Wednesdays - 6pm PST/9pm EST - The Thundering Blurb Fantasy Football Podcast on BlogTalkRadio
- Thursday - 7pm PST/10pm EST - The Drive Block on BlogtalkRadio.com with Cecil Lammey and Sigmund Bloom (2 hours)
More news shortly, after lunch.
Also - a quick hello to anyone I met in Vegas who is checking out the blog. I met a ton of people who were fantasy owners or knew people who were. It was a good time and I welcome anyone to the blog coming from Sin City.
Thursday, August 21, 2008
Traveling Music please!
Hey folks,
As I mentioned a few times this week, I will be out from tonight until Sunday night (although I will be on at least part of the Drive Block tonight)- for your Fantasy Football Pleasure please check out the sites listed in the right-hand column to make sure you keep up on things.
The Shark Pool at footballguys is a good community to look into if you need debate. For fresh news aside from those sites, I would also check out rotoworld.com.
See you Sunday (unless I find a computer terminal and can't stay away!
As I mentioned a few times this week, I will be out from tonight until Sunday night (although I will be on at least part of the Drive Block tonight)- for your Fantasy Football Pleasure please check out the sites listed in the right-hand column to make sure you keep up on things.
The Shark Pool at footballguys is a good community to look into if you need debate. For fresh news aside from those sites, I would also check out rotoworld.com.
See you Sunday (unless I find a computer terminal and can't stay away!
Thursday Stampede
Hey folks,
First off, I would like to apologize for the wacky end to last night's show. Technical glitches threw me off and you can pair that with the chaos of the draft we were trying to do - anyway it was scattered.
We shall be distraction free and glitch free from here on out.
Onto the news and after the passing of Gene Upshaw, let's start positive:
St. Louis Rams
Steven Jackson and the team have agreed in principal to a deal. That sigh of relief was 1,000 owners exhaling. Anyone who saw Jackson slip to them in the latter half of the 1st round could be looking at a huge bargain if the line holds up. Jackson should be productive anyway, but I'd rather he didn't take the beating he did last year. That goes for Bulger too of course.
Arizona Cardinals
Well, here is an IDP note in part because I met the guy, was impressed with how he was approaching the off-season and wish him well. When I met Travis LaBoy here in Los Angeles late last winter, he hadn't left Tennessee officially yet. He talked a lot about the health problems he had faced in seasons prior to 2007 and how his new approach to working out and staying healthy had paid off - no back problems for one thing. When he signed with teh Cards I thought he was a good addition to the D - and hoped he might have soem IDP value. Unfortunately, he is sitting behind Bertrand Berry and while LaBoy has been productive this preseason - 2 sacks and 4 tackles in the last preseason game - if he's on a rotating spot on the Defensive Line, well that could limit his consistency and IDP value. If he comes into a chance to start full time I think he will be very productive so keep an ear out for him.
Chicago Bears
I'm not sure what - if anything - I should read into this bit of news. But the Chicago Sun Times is reporting Kevin Jones is no lock to make the team. My first thought is - well, as bad as portions of that team are, who is? Second though - the Bears have three RBs besides Jones, so if he is goign to stick with rookie Matt Forte, 'the other' Adrian Peterson and Garrett 'no clever nickname' Wolfe, he needs to put up some numbers. I think he will stick just because Wolfe and Peterson are not world beaters, Forte is unproven and could wear down even if he is successful and Jones does have talent. But it is interesting to note and is another warning to not count on any of these guys too much.
Buffalo Bills
Rookie James Hardy is again out with a hamstring injury. He looked ok in his first preseason game, was a non-factor in his second and looks to miss his 3rd. I thought he could be productive thsi year, but it looks like he will struggle as many WRs do their rookei season. (psst. You. Yeah, youin the football jersey. Keep an eye on his fellow rookie Steven Jackson. He might make a case for himself sometime this season. You don't have to draft him - he'll be on the waiver wire. Just keep an eye out. The bills still need a threat opposite Lee Evans....) Fellow rookie Leodis McKelvin has made some noise but hasn't passed Jabari Greer on the depth chart yet, not surprising in many respects. His impact will be limited for soem time in IDP leagues and probably come mostly in the return game.
Carolina Panthers
Dwayne Jarrett is busy muddying the WR position in Carolina. The Rock Hill Herald reports that he has been playing well enough to push DJ Hackett for the #3 role, one which will be a starting spot while Steve Smith is serving his 2 game team imposed suspension. Hackett has all the talent in the world but can't stay healthy and this preseason is a perfect example of it. Jarrett stumbled and bumbled through his time at WR so far - both on the field and off of it - but he's healthy, playing ok and Hackett is hurt. I have Hackett in oneDynasty league and I am starting to think about other uses for that roster spot. Redraft, I just don't know if he will do anything this year. Keep watch, but he not be worth the early season roster spot.
Cincinnati Bengals
TJ Houshmandzadeh will miss Saturday's preseason game - his third straight. Lewis is reportedly not happy but after the team forced Chris Henry on him again, who would be? He wants to get Housh involved and get him some snaps but doesn't want to hurry him along and aggravate the injury. Between Chad Johnson, Rudi Johnson and TJ, this starting offense is a *M*A*S*H* unit. And the mopey Alan Alda produced ones near the end, not the wacky early ones. Both Ocho Cinco has slipped in drafts to where in some cases he has been available as a #2 WR. Johnson's ADP is about mid 3rd and Housh is right there with him, late 2nd, early 3rd. Their health remains an issue but I still say the Henry signing was more about the WRs behind them then their status.
Detroit Lions
Finally, rookie RB Kevin Smith is still practicing with the first team. While the jury is still out on the Lions O-line, running game and Smith's ability to carry the load for a season, this is no shock - he only had to beat Tatum Bell. If there is one guy you want in front of you on the depth chart at the RB position, it's Bell. It almost guarentees you a shot at the starting job, no matter who you are. Don't overvalue Smith but he is a starter and that is very valuable. As a #2/flex/bye week filler he coudl be outstanding.
That's all for now. A reminder that the Blurb will be off the next few days while I am away. Overview of the weekend games will be done on Monday. Tune in to the Drvie Block tonight at 10pm EST/7pm PST and join myself (for hour 1) and Cecil Lammey and Sigmund Bloom of Footballguys.com for more great discussion and tips on how to decimate your league this season.
First off, I would like to apologize for the wacky end to last night's show. Technical glitches threw me off and you can pair that with the chaos of the draft we were trying to do - anyway it was scattered.
We shall be distraction free and glitch free from here on out.
Onto the news and after the passing of Gene Upshaw, let's start positive:
St. Louis Rams
Steven Jackson and the team have agreed in principal to a deal. That sigh of relief was 1,000 owners exhaling. Anyone who saw Jackson slip to them in the latter half of the 1st round could be looking at a huge bargain if the line holds up. Jackson should be productive anyway, but I'd rather he didn't take the beating he did last year. That goes for Bulger too of course.
Arizona Cardinals
Well, here is an IDP note in part because I met the guy, was impressed with how he was approaching the off-season and wish him well. When I met Travis LaBoy here in Los Angeles late last winter, he hadn't left Tennessee officially yet. He talked a lot about the health problems he had faced in seasons prior to 2007 and how his new approach to working out and staying healthy had paid off - no back problems for one thing. When he signed with teh Cards I thought he was a good addition to the D - and hoped he might have soem IDP value. Unfortunately, he is sitting behind Bertrand Berry and while LaBoy has been productive this preseason - 2 sacks and 4 tackles in the last preseason game - if he's on a rotating spot on the Defensive Line, well that could limit his consistency and IDP value. If he comes into a chance to start full time I think he will be very productive so keep an ear out for him.
Chicago Bears
I'm not sure what - if anything - I should read into this bit of news. But the Chicago Sun Times is reporting Kevin Jones is no lock to make the team. My first thought is - well, as bad as portions of that team are, who is? Second though - the Bears have three RBs besides Jones, so if he is goign to stick with rookie Matt Forte, 'the other' Adrian Peterson and Garrett 'no clever nickname' Wolfe, he needs to put up some numbers. I think he will stick just because Wolfe and Peterson are not world beaters, Forte is unproven and could wear down even if he is successful and Jones does have talent. But it is interesting to note and is another warning to not count on any of these guys too much.
Buffalo Bills
Rookie James Hardy is again out with a hamstring injury. He looked ok in his first preseason game, was a non-factor in his second and looks to miss his 3rd. I thought he could be productive thsi year, but it looks like he will struggle as many WRs do their rookei season. (psst. You. Yeah, youin the football jersey. Keep an eye on his fellow rookie Steven Jackson. He might make a case for himself sometime this season. You don't have to draft him - he'll be on the waiver wire. Just keep an eye out. The bills still need a threat opposite Lee Evans....) Fellow rookie Leodis McKelvin has made some noise but hasn't passed Jabari Greer on the depth chart yet, not surprising in many respects. His impact will be limited for soem time in IDP leagues and probably come mostly in the return game.
Carolina Panthers
Dwayne Jarrett is busy muddying the WR position in Carolina. The Rock Hill Herald reports that he has been playing well enough to push DJ Hackett for the #3 role, one which will be a starting spot while Steve Smith is serving his 2 game team imposed suspension. Hackett has all the talent in the world but can't stay healthy and this preseason is a perfect example of it. Jarrett stumbled and bumbled through his time at WR so far - both on the field and off of it - but he's healthy, playing ok and Hackett is hurt. I have Hackett in oneDynasty league and I am starting to think about other uses for that roster spot. Redraft, I just don't know if he will do anything this year. Keep watch, but he not be worth the early season roster spot.
Cincinnati Bengals
TJ Houshmandzadeh will miss Saturday's preseason game - his third straight. Lewis is reportedly not happy but after the team forced Chris Henry on him again, who would be? He wants to get Housh involved and get him some snaps but doesn't want to hurry him along and aggravate the injury. Between Chad Johnson, Rudi Johnson and TJ, this starting offense is a *M*A*S*H* unit. And the mopey Alan Alda produced ones near the end, not the wacky early ones. Both Ocho Cinco has slipped in drafts to where in some cases he has been available as a #2 WR. Johnson's ADP is about mid 3rd and Housh is right there with him, late 2nd, early 3rd. Their health remains an issue but I still say the Henry signing was more about the WRs behind them then their status.
Detroit Lions
Finally, rookie RB Kevin Smith is still practicing with the first team. While the jury is still out on the Lions O-line, running game and Smith's ability to carry the load for a season, this is no shock - he only had to beat Tatum Bell. If there is one guy you want in front of you on the depth chart at the RB position, it's Bell. It almost guarentees you a shot at the starting job, no matter who you are. Don't overvalue Smith but he is a starter and that is very valuable. As a #2/flex/bye week filler he coudl be outstanding.
That's all for now. A reminder that the Blurb will be off the next few days while I am away. Overview of the weekend games will be done on Monday. Tune in to the Drvie Block tonight at 10pm EST/7pm PST and join myself (for hour 1) and Cecil Lammey and Sigmund Bloom of Footballguys.com for more great discussion and tips on how to decimate your league this season.
NFLPA Director Gene Upshaw passes
So there's more news this morning, but i thought this deserved it's own spot.
From NFL.com:
Our thoughts and prayers go to his family.
Back with more shortly...
From NFL.com:
I'm not going to talk about the concern I might have for the upcoming CBA negotiations nor any of the other stuff that has swirled around the NFLPA the last few years. Upshaw worked his tail off to keep the peace and we've had ridiculous amounts of it during his reign.Pro Football Hall of Famer and longtime NFL Players Association executive director Gene Upshaw has died. The former offensive lineman had been fighting pancreatic cancer. He was 63.
Upshaw played for the Oakland and Los Angeles Raiders from 1967 through 1981. He was a seven-time Pro Bowl selection and an 11-time All-Pro, playing on two Super Bowl-winning teams with the Raiders. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1987, but has been better known for the past 25 years as the executive director of the NFL Players Association.
From his involvement with the NFLPA as a player through his tenure as executive director, Upshaw took part in negotiations of the 1977, 1982 and 1993 Collective Bargaining Agreements between the NFL and NFLPA, and extensions of the CBA in 1998, 2002 and 2006.
Our thoughts and prayers go to his family.
Back with more shortly...
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
Podcast up!
A few technical difficulties - but some good Oline discussion if I do say so myself.
Check it out on BlogtalkRadio - or just check out the show on the right.
Also, subscribe to ITunes and tune in next week with 100% less technical glitches!
One more post tomorrow morning then it's off to Vegas!
Check it out on BlogtalkRadio - or just check out the show on the right.
Also, subscribe to ITunes and tune in next week with 100% less technical glitches!
One more post tomorrow morning then it's off to Vegas!
Wednesday Stampede
Short post this morning as it's just a bit quite. This is what happens as we shift into season mode - aside from cuts and some injuries, not much going on. Next week the Blurb will me more strategy than info as we also shift into season mode.
Also a reminder that The Thundering Blurb Fantasy Football Podcast airs live tonight on BlogTalkRadio.com at 9pm EST/6pm PST. You can get on the air by calling (718) 506-1722.
On to the news -
Cleveland Browns
Derek Anderson's concussion was termed mild and he should be ready for week 1 - so don't worry about Edwards, Winslow and the rest of the Cleveland offense. We'll see a lot of Brady Quinn over the next few preseason games and the Browns will be able to judge - at least in part - what Quinn might mean for their future. If he plays well enough, you'll hear some murmurs about him starting but the Browns could challenge for the AFC North title, so it won't happen. Kick Returner Joshua Cribbs has a high ankle sprain and that's a worse piece of news. That can linger and will upset the Cleveland Special Teams, and their value, if he isn't 100%.
Buffalo Bills
Trent Edwards was injured during Tuesday's practice - a deep quad contusion according to HC Dick Jauron. Like with Anderson, this will probably keep Edwards out of a preseason game or two but is unlikely to affect his Week 1 status. There have been a few people who have wondered whether or not JP Losman might be a better fit (again) but the question has been answered already and barring a big injury, the Bills will start Edwards.
Arizona Cardinals
Rookie Tim Hightower has moved to the #2 spot on the depth chart in Arizona. Not surprising given how awful JJ Arrington and the departed Marcel Shipp have been the last two years. He won't eat into Edge's value much although he might get some short yardage looks. He's Edge's handcuff if you follow that strategy and is a good person to have on your Dynasty bench, Edge or not. Another rookie not faring as well would be WR Early Doucet. Doucet was back in practice Tuesday after a hamstring injury knocked him out for a while. He needs a big couple of preseason games to pass Steve Breaston for the #3 spot on the Cards. A few rookies have exploded on rosters this preseason, so he could do it - but as always I warn against counting on rookies - especially rookie WRs - for much.
Cincinnati Bengals
So Chris Henry is back after Marvin Lewis said 'never again' - which can't make him (Lewis) all that happy. Before you get all excited, Henry is serving a suspension for the first 4 games. Some are reading it into Chad Johnson's injury (so much that he dropped about 4 rounds in the Fantasy Sportswriters Assoc Draft last night) but I read it more as concern that the rookie they have won't be able to step up if Johnson and Houshmandzedah have problems. That sounds like the same but it isn't - I don't know that either Housh or Ocho Cinco are hurt badly so much as the rookies have been unspectacular in camp, although each has had a good preseason game.
Miami Dolphins
This is probably just encouragement, but according to the South Florida Sun-Sentinel HC Tony Sparano has not ruled out rookie Chad Henne being named the starter. I don't know I buy that but it could mean Pennington is having issues picking up the offense. It could also just be Sparano's way of saying 'Nice job, rookie' as Henne has impressed during Trainging Camp. It would suck if - in the unlikely event Henne was the starter Week 1 - Pennington moved teams only to get stuck as a back-up again. Let me be clear though - I don't think that will happen. The team is reportedly also looking for a 4th round pick for John Beck.
Yeah - good luck with that.
Chicago Bears
Running Back Kevin Jones gets some preseason action on Thursday against the 49rs. He's fighting to back-up Matt Forte but Jones could get significant carries by the middle of the season - he's got ability, it's his health that seems to get in the way. Forte is still a rookie and will burn out at some point as most do. Expect the Bears to keep him fresh with Jones if Jones is available. Forte is still the guy to grab first, if you find him at a godo value.
San Diego Chargers
In other brief news, Antonio Gates is cleared to practice and might be looking good for Week 1. You probably won't see him in the next two preseason games - if a healthy LT isn't playing, why risk a healing Gates? - but assuming he isn't set-back in practice, he could start Week 1, which is both good for your Fantasy Team and the Chargers' chances at starting strong, something they need to do in the AFC this year.
That's all for now - remember the show tonight. Among other things, we'll be talking some Offesnive lines to watch and some to avoid, talking about the BloTalkRadio Fantasy Football Podcaster league draft I will be doing at the same time and the fact that I am a mere 30 odd hours from Vegas.
Good times.
----
Feel free to send questions - or betting advice - to thunderingblurb@gmail.com or comment below.
Also a reminder that The Thundering Blurb Fantasy Football Podcast airs live tonight on BlogTalkRadio.com at 9pm EST/6pm PST. You can get on the air by calling (718) 506-1722.
On to the news -
Cleveland Browns
Derek Anderson's concussion was termed mild and he should be ready for week 1 - so don't worry about Edwards, Winslow and the rest of the Cleveland offense. We'll see a lot of Brady Quinn over the next few preseason games and the Browns will be able to judge - at least in part - what Quinn might mean for their future. If he plays well enough, you'll hear some murmurs about him starting but the Browns could challenge for the AFC North title, so it won't happen. Kick Returner Joshua Cribbs has a high ankle sprain and that's a worse piece of news. That can linger and will upset the Cleveland Special Teams, and their value, if he isn't 100%.
Buffalo Bills
Trent Edwards was injured during Tuesday's practice - a deep quad contusion according to HC Dick Jauron. Like with Anderson, this will probably keep Edwards out of a preseason game or two but is unlikely to affect his Week 1 status. There have been a few people who have wondered whether or not JP Losman might be a better fit (again) but the question has been answered already and barring a big injury, the Bills will start Edwards.
Arizona Cardinals
Rookie Tim Hightower has moved to the #2 spot on the depth chart in Arizona. Not surprising given how awful JJ Arrington and the departed Marcel Shipp have been the last two years. He won't eat into Edge's value much although he might get some short yardage looks. He's Edge's handcuff if you follow that strategy and is a good person to have on your Dynasty bench, Edge or not. Another rookie not faring as well would be WR Early Doucet. Doucet was back in practice Tuesday after a hamstring injury knocked him out for a while. He needs a big couple of preseason games to pass Steve Breaston for the #3 spot on the Cards. A few rookies have exploded on rosters this preseason, so he could do it - but as always I warn against counting on rookies - especially rookie WRs - for much.
Cincinnati Bengals
So Chris Henry is back after Marvin Lewis said 'never again' - which can't make him (Lewis) all that happy. Before you get all excited, Henry is serving a suspension for the first 4 games. Some are reading it into Chad Johnson's injury (so much that he dropped about 4 rounds in the Fantasy Sportswriters Assoc Draft last night) but I read it more as concern that the rookie they have won't be able to step up if Johnson and Houshmandzedah have problems. That sounds like the same but it isn't - I don't know that either Housh or Ocho Cinco are hurt badly so much as the rookies have been unspectacular in camp, although each has had a good preseason game.
Miami Dolphins
This is probably just encouragement, but according to the South Florida Sun-Sentinel HC Tony Sparano has not ruled out rookie Chad Henne being named the starter. I don't know I buy that but it could mean Pennington is having issues picking up the offense. It could also just be Sparano's way of saying 'Nice job, rookie' as Henne has impressed during Trainging Camp. It would suck if - in the unlikely event Henne was the starter Week 1 - Pennington moved teams only to get stuck as a back-up again. Let me be clear though - I don't think that will happen. The team is reportedly also looking for a 4th round pick for John Beck.
Yeah - good luck with that.
Chicago Bears
Running Back Kevin Jones gets some preseason action on Thursday against the 49rs. He's fighting to back-up Matt Forte but Jones could get significant carries by the middle of the season - he's got ability, it's his health that seems to get in the way. Forte is still a rookie and will burn out at some point as most do. Expect the Bears to keep him fresh with Jones if Jones is available. Forte is still the guy to grab first, if you find him at a godo value.
San Diego Chargers
In other brief news, Antonio Gates is cleared to practice and might be looking good for Week 1. You probably won't see him in the next two preseason games - if a healthy LT isn't playing, why risk a healing Gates? - but assuming he isn't set-back in practice, he could start Week 1, which is both good for your Fantasy Team and the Chargers' chances at starting strong, something they need to do in the AFC this year.
That's all for now - remember the show tonight. Among other things, we'll be talking some Offesnive lines to watch and some to avoid, talking about the BloTalkRadio Fantasy Football Podcaster league draft I will be doing at the same time and the fact that I am a mere 30 odd hours from Vegas.
Good times.
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Feel free to send questions - or betting advice - to thunderingblurb@gmail.com or comment below.
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
Late Tuesday News
Sorry for the silence today - massive computer issues here at Blurb Central. Back though and just in time for the Fantasy Sportswriters Association draft I have scheduled for tonight.
We're back now - although I have to warn you we're on a short week here on the Blurb as I will be traveling Thursday afternoon and in Las Vegas until Sunday night.
I will refer you to the excellent sites listed to the right for news and notes after Thursday.
Plenty to go until then so:
Seattle Seahawks
Matt Hasselbeck returned to practice, only to have his back seize up again midway through the session. He may not see action again in the next preseason game and as much as I like Hass, this and the battered WR core are not instilling confidence.
Miami Dolphins
So of course yesterday there was this crazy rumor being debated about Ronnie Brown being traded, which came out of Chris Mortenson at ESPN. Now, all I remember last year is Mort throwing rumor after rumor out all last year and few panning out. I have been reminded that he 'forged close ties with Parcells at ESPN' but that still doesn't inspire confidence. Especially now that Phins coach Tony Sparano has come out and said there is 'no chance' they trade Brown. I tried to figure out WHY one would trade Brown, and never saw a particular reason that worked for me - clearly neither does Sparano.
Atlanta Falcons
From the 'it's about time column' - The Falcons have finally cut ties with WR Joe Horn who has had his bags packed for several months now. I don't know where he will catch on, but he was just riding pine in Atlanta. Costly, costly mistake by the Falcons who are still paying off his guarenteed money.
Indianapolis Colts
We have a Manning sighting - he was wearing a sleeve on his knee but he showed up at practice. That *sigh* you heard? Tons of Colts fans and Manning owners. Still some confusion as to when he will play but he looks like he will be good to go Week 1.
Tampa Bay Bucaneers
Jeff Garcia and Joey Galloway returned to practice today. Both might see time in Saturday's tilt with the Jags. Galloway has been ultra productive given the offense and his age. He may be wearing down so he's not more than a #3 or 4 - but a very productive one.
That's all for now - more later tonight and tomorrow morning.
Also tomorrow night - remember to head over to The Thundering Blurb Live Podcast and join in at the chat or call in at (718) 506-1722 and get on the air.
9pm Eastern/ 6pm Pacific
We're back now - although I have to warn you we're on a short week here on the Blurb as I will be traveling Thursday afternoon and in Las Vegas until Sunday night.
I will refer you to the excellent sites listed to the right for news and notes after Thursday.
Plenty to go until then so:
Seattle Seahawks
Matt Hasselbeck returned to practice, only to have his back seize up again midway through the session. He may not see action again in the next preseason game and as much as I like Hass, this and the battered WR core are not instilling confidence.
Miami Dolphins
So of course yesterday there was this crazy rumor being debated about Ronnie Brown being traded, which came out of Chris Mortenson at ESPN. Now, all I remember last year is Mort throwing rumor after rumor out all last year and few panning out. I have been reminded that he 'forged close ties with Parcells at ESPN' but that still doesn't inspire confidence. Especially now that Phins coach Tony Sparano has come out and said there is 'no chance' they trade Brown. I tried to figure out WHY one would trade Brown, and never saw a particular reason that worked for me - clearly neither does Sparano.
Atlanta Falcons
From the 'it's about time column' - The Falcons have finally cut ties with WR Joe Horn who has had his bags packed for several months now. I don't know where he will catch on, but he was just riding pine in Atlanta. Costly, costly mistake by the Falcons who are still paying off his guarenteed money.
Indianapolis Colts
We have a Manning sighting - he was wearing a sleeve on his knee but he showed up at practice. That *sigh* you heard? Tons of Colts fans and Manning owners. Still some confusion as to when he will play but he looks like he will be good to go Week 1.
Tampa Bay Bucaneers
Jeff Garcia and Joey Galloway returned to practice today. Both might see time in Saturday's tilt with the Jags. Galloway has been ultra productive given the offense and his age. He may be wearing down so he's not more than a #3 or 4 - but a very productive one.
That's all for now - more later tonight and tomorrow morning.
Also tomorrow night - remember to head over to The Thundering Blurb Live Podcast and join in at the chat or call in at (718) 506-1722 and get on the air.
9pm Eastern/ 6pm Pacific
Monday, August 18, 2008
Orton wins Chicago Starting Quarterback Job
According the Chicago Sun-Times, Kyle Orton will be the Bears' Opening Day quarterback.
Which only tells you which Chicago QB you should not be drafting. Orton looked better than Grossman so far, but his yards per pass is awful and he doesn't bring much upside to the table.
Still, he's the guy right now and it should merely remind us that at the end of the day, Chicago will struggle to give us any fantasy value through the air. Hester and Greg Olson might break out, but I would suggest staying away. Even Matt Forte is shaky when he's going to face stacked run D's all season.
More later, but thought you might like the breaking news...
Which only tells you which Chicago QB you should not be drafting. Orton looked better than Grossman so far, but his yards per pass is awful and he doesn't bring much upside to the table.
Still, he's the guy right now and it should merely remind us that at the end of the day, Chicago will struggle to give us any fantasy value through the air. Hester and Greg Olson might break out, but I would suggest staying away. Even Matt Forte is shaky when he's going to face stacked run D's all season.
More later, but thought you might like the breaking news...
Sunday, August 17, 2008
Sunday Night Thoughts
Am watching the Lions/Bengals game again as I type this - not the prettiest game ever, but some interesting performances.
Just traded Calvin Johnson for Marques Colston straight up in a Dynasty League late last week. Will I regret it? Probably not - Colston may produce more often and more consistently than Johnson the next few years. But boy Calvin J looks rock solid.
On to the pair of games:
Lions vs Bengals
As I was just saying, Calvin Johnson is looking sharp so far in the preseason. So far he's caught 7 passes for 153 yards and a TD. Some have been saying he might see less action without madman Mike Martz, but the truth is, he'll get plenty of targets and with his size, he should be pretty successful. Kevin Smith continues to look good as he moves into the starting gig, while Tatum Bell continues to to play like Tatum Bell usually does. Lackluster and ineffective.
On the other side of the field, Chad Johnson left the game early with a shoulder injury. Early reports have been everything from a dislocated shoulder to a mild sprain. The staff isn't acting too concerned so you shouldn't be. But it's worth tracking. Meanwhile, one of the new receivers got his groove on and one got hurt. Jerome Simpson caught 5 passes for 114 yards while his fellow rookie Andre Caldwell ended up in a walking boot post-game. At first it appeared Simpson was lagging behind Caldwell but the gap has certainly been erased in the last few weeks. Neither will hold much redraft value, but how they end up will determine whether they are worth holding onto for Dynasty Leagues.
Overall I can't say much for Cinci so far. Nothing seems to be working and while I think Detroit will be effective offensively and decent defensively, I don't think they are this good. But the question becomes - are the Bengals going to be this bad?
Patriots vs Buccaneers
No Brady, no LaMont Jordan. We did find out Matt Cassel doesn't stand up to close inspection as he put up OK stats but didn't look very good doing it. Brady doesn't often get hurt and the Pats will be happy for that if Cassel and rookie Kevin O'Connell don't get it together. The defense looked a tad lackluster as well, getting run over by Tampa Bay's running backs. The offense will be fine when Brady returns but it might not matter if the defense doesn't step it up. New England is getting grabbed early as a team D. I might caution you against reaching for them.
Antonio Bryant sighting: Bryant looked good - he made a couple of nice catches and has been getting a lot of praise from Gruden. I've been fooled too many times to believe in him, but he may end up having some value if he can capture that #2 WR. But he'll probably be long gone before I am willing to draft him. No one running back stood out, but Ernest Graham did grab a TD. While he faces a huge RBBC possibility I think Graham will be able to produce decent fantasy numbers and while he might not be a consistent starter for you, he will definitely be a good #2 or bye week Rb.
That's all we have tonight (this morning). More later as we hear the outcomes of a few MRIs and injury reports.
Just traded Calvin Johnson for Marques Colston straight up in a Dynasty League late last week. Will I regret it? Probably not - Colston may produce more often and more consistently than Johnson the next few years. But boy Calvin J looks rock solid.
On to the pair of games:
Lions vs Bengals
As I was just saying, Calvin Johnson is looking sharp so far in the preseason. So far he's caught 7 passes for 153 yards and a TD. Some have been saying he might see less action without madman Mike Martz, but the truth is, he'll get plenty of targets and with his size, he should be pretty successful. Kevin Smith continues to look good as he moves into the starting gig, while Tatum Bell continues to to play like Tatum Bell usually does. Lackluster and ineffective.
On the other side of the field, Chad Johnson left the game early with a shoulder injury. Early reports have been everything from a dislocated shoulder to a mild sprain. The staff isn't acting too concerned so you shouldn't be. But it's worth tracking. Meanwhile, one of the new receivers got his groove on and one got hurt. Jerome Simpson caught 5 passes for 114 yards while his fellow rookie Andre Caldwell ended up in a walking boot post-game. At first it appeared Simpson was lagging behind Caldwell but the gap has certainly been erased in the last few weeks. Neither will hold much redraft value, but how they end up will determine whether they are worth holding onto for Dynasty Leagues.
Overall I can't say much for Cinci so far. Nothing seems to be working and while I think Detroit will be effective offensively and decent defensively, I don't think they are this good. But the question becomes - are the Bengals going to be this bad?
Patriots vs Buccaneers
No Brady, no LaMont Jordan. We did find out Matt Cassel doesn't stand up to close inspection as he put up OK stats but didn't look very good doing it. Brady doesn't often get hurt and the Pats will be happy for that if Cassel and rookie Kevin O'Connell don't get it together. The defense looked a tad lackluster as well, getting run over by Tampa Bay's running backs. The offense will be fine when Brady returns but it might not matter if the defense doesn't step it up. New England is getting grabbed early as a team D. I might caution you against reaching for them.
Antonio Bryant sighting: Bryant looked good - he made a couple of nice catches and has been getting a lot of praise from Gruden. I've been fooled too many times to believe in him, but he may end up having some value if he can capture that #2 WR. But he'll probably be long gone before I am willing to draft him. No one running back stood out, but Ernest Graham did grab a TD. While he faces a huge RBBC possibility I think Graham will be able to produce decent fantasy numbers and while he might not be a consistent starter for you, he will definitely be a good #2 or bye week Rb.
That's all we have tonight (this morning). More later as we hear the outcomes of a few MRIs and injury reports.
Saturday, August 16, 2008
Saturday NFL Games
Hey folks - another Saturday brings us that much closer to the launch of the 2008 season.
Here's the high and low points from today's games.....
Jets vs Redskins
So I was totally surprised that Brett Favre played today.... of not. Favre looked good enough in his limited action, hitting Cotchery for 2 passes and rookie Dustin Keller for a TD. Chris Baker took in a catch as well, so it's still up in the air who will be the TE top dog there. Once Favre left, Kellen Clemens struggled, tripping over someone's feet twice. He had 7 incompletes - 6 were dropped passes. Sometimes things just go badly. Brett Ratcliffe looked good again in limited action vs walk-ons and busboys. David Clowney left the game with an apparent shoulder injury - details to come.
Also leaving early was LaDell Betts who hurt his knee, though how serious is subkect to debate. We'll have to see on that as well. Colt Brennan continued to look good in late snaps, and running back MArcus Mason is making a play for a roster spot as well, adding 75 yards to a three game total of 178.
Colts vs Falcons
Matt Ryan did what we expected him to tonight - he looked like a rookie, including throwing a pick that went for 6 the other way. Sadly for the Falcons, Ryan actually looked like the most advanced rookie as Chris Redman, DJ Shockley and Joey 'The Pianist' Harrington looked pretty morose as well. The one bright spot would be Michael Turner who rebounded fro ma decidely average game last week to put 114 yards in 4 carries on the struggling Colts run D. So far his per carry average is impressive (even the pedestrian 5-22 last week works out to 4 ypc) but the Colts aren't dominating the run so the jury will still eb out. Turner has to produce though - that pass game is almost unbearable to watch, much less draft in fantasy.
The Colts QBs weren't exactly Manninglike either - and boy are Colts fans worried. Not so much that Peyton won't start week 1 - he should - but that he might EVER get hurt. Sorgi used to seem competant, but now just seems lost. Quinn Gray looked OK, throwing for 100 yards. Jared Lorenzon threw a pick. I shudder to think what would happen if Manning WAS down for more than preseason.
Vikings vs Ravens
Good news - Tarvaris Jackson looked good for a second straight game (7-11, 82, 1TD). Bad news - Jackson also went down with an injury to his right knee, hurt while scrambling before being tackled by Antwan Barnes. While he w asn't a hot prospect on fantasy radars, his effectiveness was giving Bernard Berrian owners hope. Berrian did not make an appearance by the way, while Blurb stealth target Sidney Rice caught 3 passes for 31 yards.
QB Troy Smith didn't lock the #1 job down, going 3-5 with a pick. Lucky for him, Kyle Boller looked.... well like Kyle Boller (8-12, 40, 1INT). Could Joe Flacco still win the start? It shouldn;t matter in your redraft leagues and Flacco has a ton of work to do to become an effective QB, so I kinda hope they let him marinate on the pine a year. Ray Rice, on the other hand, is making anyone who took Willis McGahee worry, as he continues to look very solid (8 for 77, 1 TD and 3 catches for 17 yards). McGahee is facing recovering from his knee 'scope and if Rice keep playing lights out, the Ravens may just let McGahee rest a while longer.
Dolphins vs Jaguars
Chad Pennington looked good in his debut in the sea-foam green, while rookie Chad Henne looked very good the rest of the game. McCown and Beck were MIA in Miami. Read into that as you will. But the real story here is Ricky Williams' continued assault on Ronnie Brown's carry total and Brown leaving the game with a hurt thumb. Now, apparently he could have continued to play if the game meant anything, but Sparano has been vocal in his Ricky love, so be aware - if you take Brown, do so at your own risk and nowhere near the second round, where his ADP had been last year. Williams could figure into the running game very heavily.
Oh and Tedd Ginn is starting to look good. I will always think it a bad choice, but Ginn is starting to develope into a nice target.
The Jags had no rhythm and looked out of synch the whole night. Garrard couldn't string a good series together, the run game stalled and the recievers were unspectacular. It's only preseason, but the Jags need to get some semblance of momentum going or they could start off on the wrong foot - something that could cost them in the tough AFC.
Texans vs Saints
Steve Slaton is continuing to look like a nice late pick in redrafts (and Dynasty leagues) as he once again looked very good (12-57, 1TD). It's hard to say whether anyone will unseat incumbent Ahman Green but Green is old and tends to be hurt - and Chris Brown just tends to be hurt. So Slaton, Darius Walker and Chris Taylor are all guys to watch closely. Matt Schaub is looking solid and he, Andre Johnson and Owen Daniels should make beautiful music together all season long. Kevin Walter might sneak in there for some love too.
The biggest piece of news for the Saints would be the appearance (effective no less) of Deuce McAllister, who saw his first action of the preseason. 16 yards on 4 carries aren't stud back numbers of course, but he picked up a trio of first downs and ran hard. Overall, the Saints offense looked as good as you'd hope, though the defense struggled a little at times. The secondary is better than last year (how could it not be?) but still needs work as the Texans QBs threw for nearly 300 yards and 2 TDs.
Cardinals vs Chiefs
Kurt Warner started but didn't impress tonight, while Matt Leinart went 7-11 with a TD. Warner didn't play badly - just not well enough to unseat Leinart. Stay tuned. The Cards D came to play - Chase Stuart mentioned them as a good Defense by Committee candidate in Thursday's Drive Block and if tonight is any indication, he is once again right. Newly acquired Travis LaBoy with 6 tackles, 1 assist and a pair of sacks. This is a D on the rise and one worth considering in Fantasy. They might finally have stopped teasing Fantasy Owners and arrived.
While Larry Johnson looked solid with 14 carries for 61 yards, Brodie Croyle missed a few recievers and stalled without getting into the end zone while Tyler Thigpen had gaudier stats (16 for 27, 174 with 1 TD) but threw a late pick. The O-line also gave up 4 sacks, something they still need to improve upon if they are ever to get the team on track again.
Chargers vs Rams
Darren Sproles hurt his knee during a special teams play and could miss some time. The Chargers shouldn't flinch though, as rookie Jacob Hester continued his outstanding play with 12 carries for 59 yards. Craig Davis played very well at reciever and - well everythign else. He caught 2 passes for 40 yards, ran for 10 and had a 36 yard punt return.
While the Rams running backs are contributing nicely in Steven Jackson's absence, the offensive line is not. Marc Bulger is already taking hits and he's very shaky right now. He threw two picks and only got 56 yards on 7 completions for the half. The Rams need better play from him, but they need to protect him as well. Back to Steven Jackson though - with Antonio Pittman and Brian Leonard playing so well, I have to wonder how much longer Jackson will sit. He's losing his leverage and every positive yard by Pittman and Leonard eats it away more.
Cowboys vs Broncos
The 'boys aren't looking like world beaters in preseason, but they don't have to. They know what they have to do, know what their studs CANdo and are just curious how the new fellas will fit in. Felix Jones, for one, fits like a well worn pair of boots. 3 carries for 17 yards and a 27 yard catch isn't a tone of work, but Jones continues to look good doing everything and anything they ask of him. Cecil Lammey doesn't love him and watched him practice in the Cenver/Dallas intersquad days this week - in practice, he dances too much. But so far, it hasn't hurt his game impact. We'll have to see if the practice flaws catch up with Jones on the playing field.
As Lammey mentioned on both the Thundering Blurb podcast and The Drive Block, Adam Jones and Brandon Marshall jawed a ton in those same practices. Well, Marshall won this round to the tune of 6 catches for 59 yards and a TD. Jones looked good shagging punts though, and the Cowboys need him to contribute there as well. Broncs rookie Eddie Royal continues to look great and added 2 catches for 67 yards. With Marshall out, the Broncos shouldn't miss a beat with this talented rookie in place and it's concievable that once there, he won't let go and could end up in the #2 spot, with Stokely remaining in the slot.
Bears vs Seahawks
Bears QB; the job nobody wants. They should advertise on Monster.com, because the guys in place don;t seem to want to win the job. Kyle Orton looked like Kyle Orton (I ywan even typing his name) and Rex Grossman had one of his 'down' games - the Seahawls pressured him and he folded like a tent, including an INT that popped into the air as he was hit while throwing. The Hawks kept the heat up and Rex just looked lost. Luckily, the Bears D seems back on track, as that accounted for pretty much all the good play from Chicago in this game.
The Seahawks need Matt Hasselback to return soon, as Charlie Frye seemed to be auditioning for the Bears Qb role - 203 yards is nice. 3 INTs? Not so much. The biggest bright spot was RB Justin Forsett - a DraftguysTV alum, Forsett lit the Bears up for 136 yards (on 15 carries) and a TD. He's got to fight to make the roster, though TJ Duckett is expensive for a guy who will likely end up a fullback. Neither guy is Fantasy worthy right now, though at least Forsett has upside that has yet to be tapped. A very late flier could be worth the time.
Packers vs 49rs
Don't let JT O'Sullivan's numbers fool you - his 8-17, 154 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT mask a QB who missed open receivers, made bad reads and generally looked as bad as Alex Smith's statline looked. Here's another QB fight where nobody seems to want to win. Luckily Frank Gore and Vernon Davis looked good despite the QBs and rookie Josh Morgan added to his impressive week 1 total with 114 yards and a TD on 5 catches. Here's another guy who could be worth a very late add to yoru roster on draft day. But the QB situation might make me look elsewhere.
The Packers have to be a bit worried with Aaron Rodgers' struggles. Rodgers was terribly inconsistant - on the other hand his line played awfully and he found himself with little time to throw, constantly scrambling and being sacked 4 times. Maybe Favre escaped more than was pushed out?
Thats all for tonight - will review tomorrow's games (and Thursdays which I didn;t have time to today) tomorrow night and Monday.
And as sure as Mike Nugent bouncing a kick off an upright in a game winning situation, I'll be back all next week.
Here's the high and low points from today's games.....
Jets vs Redskins
So I was totally surprised that Brett Favre played today.... of not. Favre looked good enough in his limited action, hitting Cotchery for 2 passes and rookie Dustin Keller for a TD. Chris Baker took in a catch as well, so it's still up in the air who will be the TE top dog there. Once Favre left, Kellen Clemens struggled, tripping over someone's feet twice. He had 7 incompletes - 6 were dropped passes. Sometimes things just go badly. Brett Ratcliffe looked good again in limited action vs walk-ons and busboys. David Clowney left the game with an apparent shoulder injury - details to come.
Also leaving early was LaDell Betts who hurt his knee, though how serious is subkect to debate. We'll have to see on that as well. Colt Brennan continued to look good in late snaps, and running back MArcus Mason is making a play for a roster spot as well, adding 75 yards to a three game total of 178.
Colts vs Falcons
Matt Ryan did what we expected him to tonight - he looked like a rookie, including throwing a pick that went for 6 the other way. Sadly for the Falcons, Ryan actually looked like the most advanced rookie as Chris Redman, DJ Shockley and Joey 'The Pianist' Harrington looked pretty morose as well. The one bright spot would be Michael Turner who rebounded fro ma decidely average game last week to put 114 yards in 4 carries on the struggling Colts run D. So far his per carry average is impressive (even the pedestrian 5-22 last week works out to 4 ypc) but the Colts aren't dominating the run so the jury will still eb out. Turner has to produce though - that pass game is almost unbearable to watch, much less draft in fantasy.
The Colts QBs weren't exactly Manninglike either - and boy are Colts fans worried. Not so much that Peyton won't start week 1 - he should - but that he might EVER get hurt. Sorgi used to seem competant, but now just seems lost. Quinn Gray looked OK, throwing for 100 yards. Jared Lorenzon threw a pick. I shudder to think what would happen if Manning WAS down for more than preseason.
Vikings vs Ravens
Good news - Tarvaris Jackson looked good for a second straight game (7-11, 82, 1TD). Bad news - Jackson also went down with an injury to his right knee, hurt while scrambling before being tackled by Antwan Barnes. While he w asn't a hot prospect on fantasy radars, his effectiveness was giving Bernard Berrian owners hope. Berrian did not make an appearance by the way, while Blurb stealth target Sidney Rice caught 3 passes for 31 yards.
QB Troy Smith didn't lock the #1 job down, going 3-5 with a pick. Lucky for him, Kyle Boller looked.... well like Kyle Boller (8-12, 40, 1INT). Could Joe Flacco still win the start? It shouldn;t matter in your redraft leagues and Flacco has a ton of work to do to become an effective QB, so I kinda hope they let him marinate on the pine a year. Ray Rice, on the other hand, is making anyone who took Willis McGahee worry, as he continues to look very solid (8 for 77, 1 TD and 3 catches for 17 yards). McGahee is facing recovering from his knee 'scope and if Rice keep playing lights out, the Ravens may just let McGahee rest a while longer.
Dolphins vs Jaguars
Chad Pennington looked good in his debut in the sea-foam green, while rookie Chad Henne looked very good the rest of the game. McCown and Beck were MIA in Miami. Read into that as you will. But the real story here is Ricky Williams' continued assault on Ronnie Brown's carry total and Brown leaving the game with a hurt thumb. Now, apparently he could have continued to play if the game meant anything, but Sparano has been vocal in his Ricky love, so be aware - if you take Brown, do so at your own risk and nowhere near the second round, where his ADP had been last year. Williams could figure into the running game very heavily.
Oh and Tedd Ginn is starting to look good. I will always think it a bad choice, but Ginn is starting to develope into a nice target.
The Jags had no rhythm and looked out of synch the whole night. Garrard couldn't string a good series together, the run game stalled and the recievers were unspectacular. It's only preseason, but the Jags need to get some semblance of momentum going or they could start off on the wrong foot - something that could cost them in the tough AFC.
Texans vs Saints
Steve Slaton is continuing to look like a nice late pick in redrafts (and Dynasty leagues) as he once again looked very good (12-57, 1TD). It's hard to say whether anyone will unseat incumbent Ahman Green but Green is old and tends to be hurt - and Chris Brown just tends to be hurt. So Slaton, Darius Walker and Chris Taylor are all guys to watch closely. Matt Schaub is looking solid and he, Andre Johnson and Owen Daniels should make beautiful music together all season long. Kevin Walter might sneak in there for some love too.
The biggest piece of news for the Saints would be the appearance (effective no less) of Deuce McAllister, who saw his first action of the preseason. 16 yards on 4 carries aren't stud back numbers of course, but he picked up a trio of first downs and ran hard. Overall, the Saints offense looked as good as you'd hope, though the defense struggled a little at times. The secondary is better than last year (how could it not be?) but still needs work as the Texans QBs threw for nearly 300 yards and 2 TDs.
Cardinals vs Chiefs
Kurt Warner started but didn't impress tonight, while Matt Leinart went 7-11 with a TD. Warner didn't play badly - just not well enough to unseat Leinart. Stay tuned. The Cards D came to play - Chase Stuart mentioned them as a good Defense by Committee candidate in Thursday's Drive Block and if tonight is any indication, he is once again right. Newly acquired Travis LaBoy with 6 tackles, 1 assist and a pair of sacks. This is a D on the rise and one worth considering in Fantasy. They might finally have stopped teasing Fantasy Owners and arrived.
While Larry Johnson looked solid with 14 carries for 61 yards, Brodie Croyle missed a few recievers and stalled without getting into the end zone while Tyler Thigpen had gaudier stats (16 for 27, 174 with 1 TD) but threw a late pick. The O-line also gave up 4 sacks, something they still need to improve upon if they are ever to get the team on track again.
Chargers vs Rams
Darren Sproles hurt his knee during a special teams play and could miss some time. The Chargers shouldn't flinch though, as rookie Jacob Hester continued his outstanding play with 12 carries for 59 yards. Craig Davis played very well at reciever and - well everythign else. He caught 2 passes for 40 yards, ran for 10 and had a 36 yard punt return.
While the Rams running backs are contributing nicely in Steven Jackson's absence, the offensive line is not. Marc Bulger is already taking hits and he's very shaky right now. He threw two picks and only got 56 yards on 7 completions for the half. The Rams need better play from him, but they need to protect him as well. Back to Steven Jackson though - with Antonio Pittman and Brian Leonard playing so well, I have to wonder how much longer Jackson will sit. He's losing his leverage and every positive yard by Pittman and Leonard eats it away more.
Cowboys vs Broncos
The 'boys aren't looking like world beaters in preseason, but they don't have to. They know what they have to do, know what their studs CANdo and are just curious how the new fellas will fit in. Felix Jones, for one, fits like a well worn pair of boots. 3 carries for 17 yards and a 27 yard catch isn't a tone of work, but Jones continues to look good doing everything and anything they ask of him. Cecil Lammey doesn't love him and watched him practice in the Cenver/Dallas intersquad days this week - in practice, he dances too much. But so far, it hasn't hurt his game impact. We'll have to see if the practice flaws catch up with Jones on the playing field.
As Lammey mentioned on both the Thundering Blurb podcast and The Drive Block, Adam Jones and Brandon Marshall jawed a ton in those same practices. Well, Marshall won this round to the tune of 6 catches for 59 yards and a TD. Jones looked good shagging punts though, and the Cowboys need him to contribute there as well. Broncs rookie Eddie Royal continues to look great and added 2 catches for 67 yards. With Marshall out, the Broncos shouldn't miss a beat with this talented rookie in place and it's concievable that once there, he won't let go and could end up in the #2 spot, with Stokely remaining in the slot.
Bears vs Seahawks
Bears QB; the job nobody wants. They should advertise on Monster.com, because the guys in place don;t seem to want to win the job. Kyle Orton looked like Kyle Orton (I ywan even typing his name) and Rex Grossman had one of his 'down' games - the Seahawls pressured him and he folded like a tent, including an INT that popped into the air as he was hit while throwing. The Hawks kept the heat up and Rex just looked lost. Luckily, the Bears D seems back on track, as that accounted for pretty much all the good play from Chicago in this game.
The Seahawks need Matt Hasselback to return soon, as Charlie Frye seemed to be auditioning for the Bears Qb role - 203 yards is nice. 3 INTs? Not so much. The biggest bright spot was RB Justin Forsett - a DraftguysTV alum, Forsett lit the Bears up for 136 yards (on 15 carries) and a TD. He's got to fight to make the roster, though TJ Duckett is expensive for a guy who will likely end up a fullback. Neither guy is Fantasy worthy right now, though at least Forsett has upside that has yet to be tapped. A very late flier could be worth the time.
Packers vs 49rs
Don't let JT O'Sullivan's numbers fool you - his 8-17, 154 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT mask a QB who missed open receivers, made bad reads and generally looked as bad as Alex Smith's statline looked. Here's another QB fight where nobody seems to want to win. Luckily Frank Gore and Vernon Davis looked good despite the QBs and rookie Josh Morgan added to his impressive week 1 total with 114 yards and a TD on 5 catches. Here's another guy who could be worth a very late add to yoru roster on draft day. But the QB situation might make me look elsewhere.
The Packers have to be a bit worried with Aaron Rodgers' struggles. Rodgers was terribly inconsistant - on the other hand his line played awfully and he found himself with little time to throw, constantly scrambling and being sacked 4 times. Maybe Favre escaped more than was pushed out?
Thats all for tonight - will review tomorrow's games (and Thursdays which I didn;t have time to today) tomorrow night and Monday.
And as sure as Mike Nugent bouncing a kick off an upright in a game winning situation, I'll be back all next week.
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