I'd better get these links up before the trick-or-treaters get here in earnest. Remember, the polls are still open. And if you need a refresher on our lineup, you can click here.
Are you ready for some civil discontent? It seems as if some Cleveland Browns have had enough of Mangini & Company. A season ticket holder who goes by the name "Dawg Pound Mike" is organizing a fan protest for the Monday night game Nov. 16 against the Baltimore Ravens. Basically, he wants fans to stay away from their seats (and, presumably, the TV cameras) for the opening kickoff.
Thank goodness the protest is taking that form. We all know that signs can be dangerous (at least, when they're made by fans and not the team PR department).
It ain't over til...well, it may not be over even then. The folks who run the Landshark Maniacs fantasy football league tell us that the scores aren't official until the Saturday after the games. This week we got a reminder why. Several days after Ben Roethlisberger apparently ran for minus-1 yard in a rush against the Minnesota Vikings, Elias Sports Bureau reversed itself by saying the play was a sack for the Vikings, not a run.
I have to think that somewhere out there in fantasy football, somebody's loss turned into a win (or vice versa) because of the extra points this would mean for the Vikings defense. Not so for the Landshark Maniacs. Tinks Revenge, who started the Vikings, still lost by a score of 93-88 to Big Lough O. If you know of someone who was saved/robbed by this, leave a comment and let us know.
Remember, this is supposed to be fun. A fellow blogger named Redsoxmaniac offers a list of Top Five Annoying-Sad-Great Things from Week 7 in fantasy football. The list proves that fantasy football is not for the faint of heart. After discussing Matt Cassell's stats from last week, he says "If I had him starting and seen this, I would Ryu dragon punch the next stranger on the street. I would be mad enough that I would have fire coming out of my fist!"
If you wan't something longer than a blog post... How about a book about blogging itself? Scott Rosenberg, a cofounder of Salon.com, has written a book called "Say Everything" about the history and development of blogging. It's a nice read for anyone who's interested in blogging. (And if you've read this far, I'm guessing you are.) Besides, if pitching the book keeps just one person away from lolcat picture collections, my job will be done.
Happy Halloween to all of you, except if you're the type of person who smashes up church pumpkin fundraisers. If you're that type of person, I hope you break your leg, Leon Washington-style.
We'll be back tomorrow with an update on the lineup.
Saturday, October 31, 2009
Friday, October 30, 2009
Fearless Predictions - Week 8
You know em. You love em. You could probably live a long and comfortable life without them, but the Landshark Maniacs league predictions are back again, anyway. Last week's predictions went 2-3, lowering the season record to 17-18.
Peoples Pigskin vs. Ravens Fan T Sizzle. For once, I'm going with the ESPN "experts" and predicting a Pigskin win.
Northeast Dragons vs. T-bay jacks 151rum stumblrs. Some of these fantasy football picks you can't overcomplicate. The Dragons bounce back from last week's loss with a victory here.
Tinks Revenge vs. Hawaiian Surfriders. Big days for both Matt Schaub and All Day lead to another win for the Surfriders.
Houston Wreckin' Crew vs. D.C. Destroyers. Who would have thought we'd be saying "Miles Austin" and "difference maker" in the same sentence? In this case, Austin will be the difference in a Crew win.
Big Lough O vs. Southern Rebels. In a slight upset special, I'm saying Ronnie Brown and Larry Fitzgerald score more than the "experts" expect. The Rebels take this one.
We'll be back tomorrow with some recommended reading material. Until then, remember to vote in our polls.
Peoples Pigskin vs. Ravens Fan T Sizzle. For once, I'm going with the ESPN "experts" and predicting a Pigskin win.
Northeast Dragons vs. T-bay jacks 151rum stumblrs. Some of these fantasy football picks you can't overcomplicate. The Dragons bounce back from last week's loss with a victory here.
Tinks Revenge vs. Hawaiian Surfriders. Big days for both Matt Schaub and All Day lead to another win for the Surfriders.
Houston Wreckin' Crew vs. D.C. Destroyers. Who would have thought we'd be saying "Miles Austin" and "difference maker" in the same sentence? In this case, Austin will be the difference in a Crew win.
Big Lough O vs. Southern Rebels. In a slight upset special, I'm saying Ronnie Brown and Larry Fitzgerald score more than the "experts" expect. The Rebels take this one.
We'll be back tomorrow with some recommended reading material. Until then, remember to vote in our polls.
Thursday, October 29, 2009
A Quick Thursday Update
First of all, thanks to those of you who voted in the tight end poll. The winner: Jeremy Shockey, who is now a part of our lineup. Now, some quick thoughts on football-related matters.
Here's your sign. By now you've probably heard about the new Washington Redskins policy about banning fan-made signs at FedEx Field. What I did not know (until I spoke last night with someone in the know) was that the Redskins also are barring fan interviews at FedEx Field. Nothing like working overtime to wave your middle finger at the very people you're trying to serve, Mr. Snyder. That should fix what ails your club.
There are plenty of takes on this. Michael Wilbon's is here. But to get true insight into this, you have to go to an older source, Bill Engvall, who loves signs. In fact, he says stupid people should be forced to wear a sign that says "I'm Stupid," so the rest of us will see them coming. (One question: Would Dan Snyder and his lackey be allowed to share a sign?)
A pitch for the TV people. Football fans of a certain age (and yes, I'm admitting to being one of them) will remember a regular feature of Sunday football telecasts: "Alcoa Presents Fantastic Finishes." Basically, toward the end of the game -- often at the two-minute warning -- they would show a fourth-quarter comeback from the annals of football history, like the Immaculate Reception, the Holy Roller, or (in the case of this clip) Roger Staubach's "Hail Mary" pass to Drew Pearson.
I remember always getting a lift from the clip, because it provided concrete proof that NFL teams could (and often did) come back, even on the last play.
Sometime in the distant past, the TV networks stopped showing these clips, even though Alcoa remains a going concern today. I would say it's time for the networks to start airing a slightly updated version: "Alcoa Presents Fantastic Fantasy Finishes." It could show things like a fantasy football player getting 21 points from a defense on Monday night to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat.
(Sorry, didn't mean to gloat.)
If Alcoa doesn't want to foot the bill for this, try Apple. They've certainly got the money for it.
We'll be back tomorrow with a preview of the Landshark Maniacs matchups. Here are the results from the tight end poll.
[polldaddy poll=2174977]
Here's your sign. By now you've probably heard about the new Washington Redskins policy about banning fan-made signs at FedEx Field. What I did not know (until I spoke last night with someone in the know) was that the Redskins also are barring fan interviews at FedEx Field. Nothing like working overtime to wave your middle finger at the very people you're trying to serve, Mr. Snyder. That should fix what ails your club.
There are plenty of takes on this. Michael Wilbon's is here. But to get true insight into this, you have to go to an older source, Bill Engvall, who loves signs. In fact, he says stupid people should be forced to wear a sign that says "I'm Stupid," so the rest of us will see them coming. (One question: Would Dan Snyder and his lackey be allowed to share a sign?)
A pitch for the TV people. Football fans of a certain age (and yes, I'm admitting to being one of them) will remember a regular feature of Sunday football telecasts: "Alcoa Presents Fantastic Finishes." Basically, toward the end of the game -- often at the two-minute warning -- they would show a fourth-quarter comeback from the annals of football history, like the Immaculate Reception, the Holy Roller, or (in the case of this clip) Roger Staubach's "Hail Mary" pass to Drew Pearson.
I remember always getting a lift from the clip, because it provided concrete proof that NFL teams could (and often did) come back, even on the last play.
Sometime in the distant past, the TV networks stopped showing these clips, even though Alcoa remains a going concern today. I would say it's time for the networks to start airing a slightly updated version: "Alcoa Presents Fantastic Fantasy Finishes." It could show things like a fantasy football player getting 21 points from a defense on Monday night to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat.
(Sorry, didn't mean to gloat.)
If Alcoa doesn't want to foot the bill for this, try Apple. They've certainly got the money for it.
We'll be back tomorrow with a preview of the Landshark Maniacs matchups. Here are the results from the tight end poll.
[polldaddy poll=2174977]
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Pick the People's Team - Week 8
While you decide how to vote in our tight end and TV watching polls, it's time for a look at the week ahead.
The People's Pigskin puts its 4-3 record on the line this week in a rematch against Ravens Fan T Sizzle. Our last meeting (in week 1 of the Landshark Maniacs season) resulted in a 104-103 win for you, the Internet. Anything can happen on any given week in fantasy football, so don't let the Sizzle's 1-6 record fool you. This team is dangerous, and we need your help assembling this week's lineup. Here are our current starters.
Quarterback. Once again we feature Kurt Warner in the starting spot. As long as he stays upright, and as long as the Cardinals feature a pass-first offense, Warner will remain a fantasy football threat. If you disagree, we can pull a quarterback off the waiver wire.
Running back. Both of our starters have some tasty matchups: Matt Forte (against the Cleveland Browns) and Steve Slaton (against the Buffalo Bills). If you're tired of either of these options, we can call Jamal Lewis off the bench.
Flex. Please welcome back to the lineup Chris "Beanie" Wells, who scored 13 fantasy points (primarily from a touchdown) on the bench last week. If you think that score was a fluke, we can use Jamal Lewis instead.
Wide receiver. Greg Jennings remains in the lineup, but Chad Ochocinco has a bye week, so he's been replaced by his former teammate, T.J. Houshmandzadeh. If you want to replace one of these receivers, Nate Washington awaits on the bench.
You already know what's going with the tight end. There are no changes in kicker (Nick Folk) or defense/special teams (Philadelphia Eagles).
The new poll is up and will be open until Saturday night. The tight end poll will close tonight. Please vote.
The People's Pigskin puts its 4-3 record on the line this week in a rematch against Ravens Fan T Sizzle. Our last meeting (in week 1 of the Landshark Maniacs season) resulted in a 104-103 win for you, the Internet. Anything can happen on any given week in fantasy football, so don't let the Sizzle's 1-6 record fool you. This team is dangerous, and we need your help assembling this week's lineup. Here are our current starters.
Quarterback. Once again we feature Kurt Warner in the starting spot. As long as he stays upright, and as long as the Cardinals feature a pass-first offense, Warner will remain a fantasy football threat. If you disagree, we can pull a quarterback off the waiver wire.
Running back. Both of our starters have some tasty matchups: Matt Forte (against the Cleveland Browns) and Steve Slaton (against the Buffalo Bills). If you're tired of either of these options, we can call Jamal Lewis off the bench.
Flex. Please welcome back to the lineup Chris "Beanie" Wells, who scored 13 fantasy points (primarily from a touchdown) on the bench last week. If you think that score was a fluke, we can use Jamal Lewis instead.
Wide receiver. Greg Jennings remains in the lineup, but Chad Ochocinco has a bye week, so he's been replaced by his former teammate, T.J. Houshmandzadeh. If you want to replace one of these receivers, Nate Washington awaits on the bench.
You already know what's going with the tight end. There are no changes in kicker (Nick Folk) or defense/special teams (Philadelphia Eagles).
The new poll is up and will be open until Saturday night. The tight end poll will close tonight. Please vote.
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
The People's Win (and the Next Step)
The People's Pigskin made all the right moves and chalked up a 103-100 win this week over the Southern Rebels. Here's a breakdown of how we did it.
Kurt Warner, QB. The stats: 20 of 36 passing, 231 yards, 1 touchdown, 1 interception, and 11 fantasy points. His Arizona Cardinals did just enough to defeat the New York Giants. The primary credit goes to the defense: Eli Manning was picked off three times.
Steve Slaton, RB. The stats: 18 carries for 67 yards, 4 receptions for 22 yards, 2 touchdowns, 1 fumble, and 18 fantasy points. His Houston Texans held off a rally by former No. 1 draft choice Alex Smith to beat the 49ers. Slaton continues to get his touches.
Donald Brown, RB. The stats: 2 carries, 58 yards, and 5 fantasy points. Brown left the game against the St. Louis Rams in the second quarter with a shoulder injury. He says the injury was no big deal, and there was no need for the Indianapolis Colts to risk any aggravation against the Rams. It's disappointing, but it seems like he'll be available next week.
Matt Forte, Flex. The stats: 6 carries for 24 yards, 4 receptions for 25 yards, and 4 fantasy points. The Chicago Bears found themselves in a gargantuan hole early against the Cincinnati Bengals. As a result, they had to abandon any hopes of a running game and throw deep. Fantasy football players, as usual, suffered the consequences.
Greg Jennings, WR. The stats: 5 receptions, 52 yards, and 5 fantasy points. The Green Bay Packers threw a lot of short routes against the Cleveland Browns. That was bad news for a deep threat like Jennings.
Chad Ochocinco, WR. The stats: 10 receptions, 118 yards, 2 touchdowns, and 23 fantasy points. Now that's more like it. Carson Palmer found Ochocinco early and often against the Chicago Bears. Ochocinco has been nothing short of a fantasy football stud.
Chris Cooley, TE. The stats: 2 receptions, 21 yards, and 2 fantasy points. Both catches came on the Redskins opening drive. And it's a good thing Cooley caught them when he could, because his night ended early. (More on him later.)
Nick Folk, K. The stats: 3 for 3 on field goals, 4 for 4 on extra points, and 14 fantasy points. Welcome back to the fold, Folk. The Dallas Cowboys finally had a complete offensive day against the Atlanta Falcons, and the kicker always benefits from this.
Philadelphia Eagles, D/ST. The stats: 1 interception returned for a touchdown, 3 fumble recoveries, 6 sacks, 17 points allowed, and 21 fantasy points. They made us wait until the last minute, but the Eagles' dominance at the line against the Washington Redskins provided the winning margin.
Now, back to Cooley. He left the Monday night game with a broken ankle. His season may or may not be over, but we cannot afford to find out. We need to get another tight end who can play right away. That means it's time for another poll. Here are the nominees:
Jeremy Shockey, New Orleans Saints. He has at least 3 fantasy points in every game he has played this season, and he currently ranks ninth among tight ends with 45.
Tony Scheffler, Denver Broncos. Another player who has scored at least a point in every game he has played. After his team's bye last week, he ranks 18th among tight ends with 31 points.
Marcedes Lewis, Jacksonville Jaguars. He has a point in five of the six games he's played so far. After his team's bye last week, he ranks 19th among tight ends with 29 points.
The poll is up and will be available until Wednesday night. Please vote and/or comment. We'll be back next time with a more detailed look at our upcoming game.
Kurt Warner, QB. The stats: 20 of 36 passing, 231 yards, 1 touchdown, 1 interception, and 11 fantasy points. His Arizona Cardinals did just enough to defeat the New York Giants. The primary credit goes to the defense: Eli Manning was picked off three times.
Steve Slaton, RB. The stats: 18 carries for 67 yards, 4 receptions for 22 yards, 2 touchdowns, 1 fumble, and 18 fantasy points. His Houston Texans held off a rally by former No. 1 draft choice Alex Smith to beat the 49ers. Slaton continues to get his touches.
Donald Brown, RB. The stats: 2 carries, 58 yards, and 5 fantasy points. Brown left the game against the St. Louis Rams in the second quarter with a shoulder injury. He says the injury was no big deal, and there was no need for the Indianapolis Colts to risk any aggravation against the Rams. It's disappointing, but it seems like he'll be available next week.
Matt Forte, Flex. The stats: 6 carries for 24 yards, 4 receptions for 25 yards, and 4 fantasy points. The Chicago Bears found themselves in a gargantuan hole early against the Cincinnati Bengals. As a result, they had to abandon any hopes of a running game and throw deep. Fantasy football players, as usual, suffered the consequences.
Greg Jennings, WR. The stats: 5 receptions, 52 yards, and 5 fantasy points. The Green Bay Packers threw a lot of short routes against the Cleveland Browns. That was bad news for a deep threat like Jennings.
Chad Ochocinco, WR. The stats: 10 receptions, 118 yards, 2 touchdowns, and 23 fantasy points. Now that's more like it. Carson Palmer found Ochocinco early and often against the Chicago Bears. Ochocinco has been nothing short of a fantasy football stud.
Chris Cooley, TE. The stats: 2 receptions, 21 yards, and 2 fantasy points. Both catches came on the Redskins opening drive. And it's a good thing Cooley caught them when he could, because his night ended early. (More on him later.)
Nick Folk, K. The stats: 3 for 3 on field goals, 4 for 4 on extra points, and 14 fantasy points. Welcome back to the fold, Folk. The Dallas Cowboys finally had a complete offensive day against the Atlanta Falcons, and the kicker always benefits from this.
Philadelphia Eagles, D/ST. The stats: 1 interception returned for a touchdown, 3 fumble recoveries, 6 sacks, 17 points allowed, and 21 fantasy points. They made us wait until the last minute, but the Eagles' dominance at the line against the Washington Redskins provided the winning margin.
Now, back to Cooley. He left the Monday night game with a broken ankle. His season may or may not be over, but we cannot afford to find out. We need to get another tight end who can play right away. That means it's time for another poll. Here are the nominees:
Jeremy Shockey, New Orleans Saints. He has at least 3 fantasy points in every game he has played this season, and he currently ranks ninth among tight ends with 45.
Tony Scheffler, Denver Broncos. Another player who has scored at least a point in every game he has played. After his team's bye last week, he ranks 18th among tight ends with 31 points.
Marcedes Lewis, Jacksonville Jaguars. He has a point in five of the six games he's played so far. After his team's bye last week, he ranks 19th among tight ends with 29 points.
The poll is up and will be available until Wednesday night. Please vote and/or comment. We'll be back next time with a more detailed look at our upcoming game.
Monday, October 26, 2009
A Quick Monday Update
Unlike Jim Zorn, it seems as if the People's Pigskin has a chance.
After Sunday's games, including a surprising victory for the Arizona Cardinals, our fantasy football team trails the Southern Rebels by a score of 100-80. The Rebels have no one in Monday's contest between the Philadelphia Eagles and the Washington Dead Coaches Walking...er, Redskins. We have Chris Cooley and the Philadelphia Eagles defense/special teams.
We'll be back tomorrow with a detailed breakdown of our game and a look ahead to next week.
After Sunday's games, including a surprising victory for the Arizona Cardinals, our fantasy football team trails the Southern Rebels by a score of 100-80. The Rebels have no one in Monday's contest between the Philadelphia Eagles and the Washington Dead Coaches Walking...er, Redskins. We have Chris Cooley and the Philadelphia Eagles defense/special teams.
We'll be back tomorrow with a detailed breakdown of our game and a look ahead to next week.
Sunday, October 25, 2009
The People's Choice - Week 7
Thanks to those of you who voted in this week's polls. You voted to leave the People's Pigskin lineup the way it is now. You can follow our fantasy football matchup against the Southern Rebels here.
You also voted to suspend Tom Cable for a season if the allegations against him are true. I know the Napa County district attorney decided not to file charges in the incident where Randy Hanson broke his jaw. So that means Cable is in the clear, right? Not necessarily.
A new poll is up. This one asks about your Sunday TV viewing habits. The results of the two most recent polls are below. We'll be back later with an update on this week's matchup.
[polldaddy poll=2149200] [polldaddy poll=2135646]
You also voted to suspend Tom Cable for a season if the allegations against him are true. I know the Napa County district attorney decided not to file charges in the incident where Randy Hanson broke his jaw. So that means Cable is in the clear, right? Not necessarily.
A new poll is up. This one asks about your Sunday TV viewing habits. The results of the two most recent polls are below. We'll be back later with an update on this week's matchup.
[polldaddy poll=2149200] [polldaddy poll=2135646]
Saturday, October 24, 2009
More Recommended Reading
The lineup and Tom Cable polls will close later tonight. In the meantime, here are some links for fellow fantasy football fans to enjoy.
Innovative, like New Coke? ESPN.com published an excerpt from Chuck Klosterman's new book "Eating the Dinosaur." The excerpt takes a look at the development of the "read option" play (a much better description than Wildcat, if you ask me) and argues that football isn't what you might think it is.
"It feels like a conservative game. It appeals to a conservative mind-set and a reactionary media and it promotes conservative values. But in tangible practicality, football is the most progressive game we have -- it constantly innovates, it immediately embraces every new technology, and almost all the important thinking about the game is liberal."
He also argues that the read option didn't exist 25 years ago, though I can think of at least one coach who would beg to differ. But never mind that. Chuck's piece (as usual) is worth your time.
Circling the wagons...to ensure the prey won't escape. I can't decide if this is a sign of the times or just the latest way for football fans to express their displeasure at their coach, but one of our fellow Wordpress users has a blog called Fire Dick Jauron! But these folks aren't just ranting. They're trying to do something more productive.
If you live in the Buffalo area, you might have noticed a billboard urging the venerable Ralph Wilson to give Jauron his walking papers. The folks at Fire Dick Jauron! are helping raise money for the billboard (and possibly for a second one). Most "fire the coach" sites never get past the name-calling stage. This one makes you hope Mr. Jauron leased his home instead of buying it.
What's a reading list without an Ochocinco item? Here's the latest on the People's Pigskin's most quotable player, Chad Ochocinco. It seems that he plans to form a social news network on Twitter. He's calling it OCNN (Ochocinco News Network). One thing's for sure: This network will get scoops on things like uniform violations.
It's like Cliff's Notes for football. If you watch Sunday's game between the New York Jets and the Oakland Raiders, you can expect to hear about the "Heidi Game" at least once. If you're not old enough to remember the incident, here's a video and a quick rundown.
On Nov. 17, 1968, the Raiders were trailing the Jets 32-29 when somebody decided the game was over. With 1:05 left on the clock, NBC affiliates in the eastern U.S. cut away from the game and started showing a made-for-TV remake of the movie "Heidi." In the meantime, the Raiders scored two touchdowns and won the game 43-32. NBC was flooded with angry calls, and football broadcasts have featured the phrase "will be seen in its entirety following today's game" ever since.
By the way, in researching this post, I learned that the "Heidi" in question was a made-for-TV version starring Jennifer Edwards, not the 1937 classic starring Shirley Temple. If the former ambassador is reading this, please accept my apologies for thinking you played a role in this controversy.
And apologies to the rest of you for not getting this post up sooner. There's still some time to vote in our polls. We'll be back Sunday morning with the results.
Innovative, like New Coke? ESPN.com published an excerpt from Chuck Klosterman's new book "Eating the Dinosaur." The excerpt takes a look at the development of the "read option" play (a much better description than Wildcat, if you ask me) and argues that football isn't what you might think it is.
"It feels like a conservative game. It appeals to a conservative mind-set and a reactionary media and it promotes conservative values. But in tangible practicality, football is the most progressive game we have -- it constantly innovates, it immediately embraces every new technology, and almost all the important thinking about the game is liberal."
He also argues that the read option didn't exist 25 years ago, though I can think of at least one coach who would beg to differ. But never mind that. Chuck's piece (as usual) is worth your time.
Circling the wagons...to ensure the prey won't escape. I can't decide if this is a sign of the times or just the latest way for football fans to express their displeasure at their coach, but one of our fellow Wordpress users has a blog called Fire Dick Jauron! But these folks aren't just ranting. They're trying to do something more productive.
If you live in the Buffalo area, you might have noticed a billboard urging the venerable Ralph Wilson to give Jauron his walking papers. The folks at Fire Dick Jauron! are helping raise money for the billboard (and possibly for a second one). Most "fire the coach" sites never get past the name-calling stage. This one makes you hope Mr. Jauron leased his home instead of buying it.
What's a reading list without an Ochocinco item? Here's the latest on the People's Pigskin's most quotable player, Chad Ochocinco. It seems that he plans to form a social news network on Twitter. He's calling it OCNN (Ochocinco News Network). One thing's for sure: This network will get scoops on things like uniform violations.
It's like Cliff's Notes for football. If you watch Sunday's game between the New York Jets and the Oakland Raiders, you can expect to hear about the "Heidi Game" at least once. If you're not old enough to remember the incident, here's a video and a quick rundown.
On Nov. 17, 1968, the Raiders were trailing the Jets 32-29 when somebody decided the game was over. With 1:05 left on the clock, NBC affiliates in the eastern U.S. cut away from the game and started showing a made-for-TV remake of the movie "Heidi." In the meantime, the Raiders scored two touchdowns and won the game 43-32. NBC was flooded with angry calls, and football broadcasts have featured the phrase "will be seen in its entirety following today's game" ever since.
By the way, in researching this post, I learned that the "Heidi" in question was a made-for-TV version starring Jennifer Edwards, not the 1937 classic starring Shirley Temple. If the former ambassador is reading this, please accept my apologies for thinking you played a role in this controversy.
And apologies to the rest of you for not getting this post up sooner. There's still some time to vote in our polls. We'll be back Sunday morning with the results.
Friday, October 23, 2009
Fearless Predictions, Week 7
I originally planned to post this much earlier, but I've been under the weather for most of the past two days. So before I drown myself in HiberNol, here are this week's predictions.
(Last week's predictions went 2-3, again, leaving us with a season record of 15-15.)
Peoples Pigskin vs. Southern Rebels. Let it never be said that I doubt the power of you, the Internet. This one goes to the Pigskin.
T-bay jacks 151rum stumblrs vs. Houston Wreckin' Crew. This Peyton vs. Eli matchup goes to the older brother (playing the pitiful St. Louis Rams). And as a result, this matchup goes to the stumblrs.
Hawaiian Surfriders vs. Northeast Dragons. The cool thing to do would be to pick an upset that ends the Dragons' 72-Dolphins-like quest for perfection. Unfortunately, I've never been accused of being cool. The Dragons will win again.
Tinks Revenge vs. Big Lough O. Wes Welker must be salivating over the chance to face the Buccaneers defense. I see a big day for him and a victory for the Lough Os.
D.C. Destroyers vs. Ravens Fan T Sizzle. Reggie Wayne benefits from Peyton's big day against the Rams. The Sizzle will benefit to the tune of a second victory.
We'll be back tomorrow (if I'm upright) with some more recommended reading. In the meantime, remember to vote in the polls on the right side of this page.
(Last week's predictions went 2-3, again, leaving us with a season record of 15-15.)
Peoples Pigskin vs. Southern Rebels. Let it never be said that I doubt the power of you, the Internet. This one goes to the Pigskin.
T-bay jacks 151rum stumblrs vs. Houston Wreckin' Crew. This Peyton vs. Eli matchup goes to the older brother (playing the pitiful St. Louis Rams). And as a result, this matchup goes to the stumblrs.
Hawaiian Surfriders vs. Northeast Dragons. The cool thing to do would be to pick an upset that ends the Dragons' 72-Dolphins-like quest for perfection. Unfortunately, I've never been accused of being cool. The Dragons will win again.
Tinks Revenge vs. Big Lough O. Wes Welker must be salivating over the chance to face the Buccaneers defense. I see a big day for him and a victory for the Lough Os.
D.C. Destroyers vs. Ravens Fan T Sizzle. Reggie Wayne benefits from Peyton's big day against the Rams. The Sizzle will benefit to the tune of a second victory.
We'll be back tomorrow (if I'm upright) with some more recommended reading. In the meantime, remember to vote in the polls on the right side of this page.
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Getting a Jump on Weekend Reading
First and foremost, thanks to those of you who voted on which kicker we should use this week. I've attached the results of that poll to the bottom of this post, but I'll spare you some suspense. The winner is Nick Folk (yes, the same Nick Folk who started the year on our roster). Looks like Ahman Green isn't the only person getting a second chance this season.
As you ponder how to vote in our other polls (on the righthand side of this page), here are a few links for your fantasy football viewing pleasure.
It's the Great Pumpkin, Ronnie Brown. Everyone is looking for a way to show their Halloween spirit. And, of course, the National Football League is looking for a creative way to get its hands on your revenue. The solution: officially licensed NFL pumpkin-carving kits. Why put a jagged smile on your Jack O'Lantern when you can put the Carolina Panthers logo on it instead?
(One warning: If any of your trick-or-treaters drafted Jake Delhomme, they may be tempted to do this.)
And we used to hike 10 miles in the snow to get our stats. The good folks at TC Sportsline offer an interesting post this week: "Fantasy Football: Are We Really Better Off?" It's basically a look at how fantasy football worked before the Internet made instant stat updates possible. The verdict: Technology has made fantasy football better:
"Putting aside the fact that its integrity is tested by misinformation, pied-pipers and their unfortunate sheep, and monotonous harmonizing of strategy on a catastrophic level, I think fantasy sports and those players who play the game how it was meant to be played are stronger and will prevail over the rest."
This is your brain online. Any questions? The next time Grandpa gets on your case about your love for fantasy football (or for the Web in general), point him to this article about a study showing one benefit of the Internet for newcomers: improved brain function. Says one of the authors:
"We found that for older people with minimal experience, performing Internet searches for even a relatively short period of time can change brain activity patterns and enhance function."
I can only assume that this older American was not part of the study.
We'll be back tomorrow with a Landshark Maniacs preview. Here are the results of the kicker poll.
[polldaddy poll=2140621]
As you ponder how to vote in our other polls (on the righthand side of this page), here are a few links for your fantasy football viewing pleasure.
It's the Great Pumpkin, Ronnie Brown. Everyone is looking for a way to show their Halloween spirit. And, of course, the National Football League is looking for a creative way to get its hands on your revenue. The solution: officially licensed NFL pumpkin-carving kits. Why put a jagged smile on your Jack O'Lantern when you can put the Carolina Panthers logo on it instead?
(One warning: If any of your trick-or-treaters drafted Jake Delhomme, they may be tempted to do this.)
And we used to hike 10 miles in the snow to get our stats. The good folks at TC Sportsline offer an interesting post this week: "Fantasy Football: Are We Really Better Off?" It's basically a look at how fantasy football worked before the Internet made instant stat updates possible. The verdict: Technology has made fantasy football better:
"Putting aside the fact that its integrity is tested by misinformation, pied-pipers and their unfortunate sheep, and monotonous harmonizing of strategy on a catastrophic level, I think fantasy sports and those players who play the game how it was meant to be played are stronger and will prevail over the rest."
This is your brain online. Any questions? The next time Grandpa gets on your case about your love for fantasy football (or for the Web in general), point him to this article about a study showing one benefit of the Internet for newcomers: improved brain function. Says one of the authors:
"We found that for older people with minimal experience, performing Internet searches for even a relatively short period of time can change brain activity patterns and enhance function."
I can only assume that this older American was not part of the study.
We'll be back tomorrow with a Landshark Maniacs preview. Here are the results of the kicker poll.
[polldaddy poll=2140621]
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Pick the People's Team - Week 7
This week the People's Pigskin has a date with the Southern Rebels. Here's what the lineup looks like now. Three weeks ago the Pigskin defeated the Rebels by a score of 115-92. With your help, the Pigskin can win again.
If you've played fantasy football for any length of time, you've had a week like this one, where it seems like everyone on your bench is injured, on a bye week, or both. However, there are always options. Here are ours.
Quarterback. Once again, Kurt Warner is slated to get the ball. Yes, he faces the New York Giants on Sunday night, but after the Giants loss to the New Orleans Saints last week, that matchup seems less scary. Trent Edwards, who left last week's game with a concussion, is probably not an option, so if you vote to bench Warner, we'll have to dip into the waiver wire for a substitute.
Running back. Your current starters are Steve Slaton, whose receiving is making up for any slack in his running, and Donald Brown, whose Indianapolis Colts face the St. Louis Rams, a team that may be on the verge of throwing in the towel, despite the local optimism. If you disagree, Jamal Lewis is available on the bench.
Flex. This week Matt Forte fills this slot. His fantasy performance has been subpar at best of late, but he's still the starting running back of a team that needs to run the ball (and hit running backs on short passes) to open up the type of vertical passes Jay Cutler can throw. If you want to bench Forte, Jamal Lewis can take this spot.
Wide receiver. The good news: We have Greg Jennings and Chad Ochocinco (now the star of his very own iPhone application) in our starting lineup. The bad news: The other options, T.J. Houshmandzadeh and Nate Washington, both have bye weeks. This will give Nate time to ponder why his coach loves Peyton Manning so much. It also means that if you want to bench one of these receivers, we're going to the waiver wire for a substitute.
There are no changes at tight end (Chris Cooley) or defense/special teams (Philadelphia Eagles). The kicker spot will be filled by the winner of our poll on the righthand side of this page. That poll will close tonight.
Speaking of polls, the new one is open and will stay open until Saturday night. Please feel free to vote and comment. We'll be back later with some recommended reading.
If you've played fantasy football for any length of time, you've had a week like this one, where it seems like everyone on your bench is injured, on a bye week, or both. However, there are always options. Here are ours.
Quarterback. Once again, Kurt Warner is slated to get the ball. Yes, he faces the New York Giants on Sunday night, but after the Giants loss to the New Orleans Saints last week, that matchup seems less scary. Trent Edwards, who left last week's game with a concussion, is probably not an option, so if you vote to bench Warner, we'll have to dip into the waiver wire for a substitute.
Running back. Your current starters are Steve Slaton, whose receiving is making up for any slack in his running, and Donald Brown, whose Indianapolis Colts face the St. Louis Rams, a team that may be on the verge of throwing in the towel, despite the local optimism. If you disagree, Jamal Lewis is available on the bench.
Flex. This week Matt Forte fills this slot. His fantasy performance has been subpar at best of late, but he's still the starting running back of a team that needs to run the ball (and hit running backs on short passes) to open up the type of vertical passes Jay Cutler can throw. If you want to bench Forte, Jamal Lewis can take this spot.
Wide receiver. The good news: We have Greg Jennings and Chad Ochocinco (now the star of his very own iPhone application) in our starting lineup. The bad news: The other options, T.J. Houshmandzadeh and Nate Washington, both have bye weeks. This will give Nate time to ponder why his coach loves Peyton Manning so much. It also means that if you want to bench one of these receivers, we're going to the waiver wire for a substitute.
There are no changes at tight end (Chris Cooley) or defense/special teams (Philadelphia Eagles). The kicker spot will be filled by the winner of our poll on the righthand side of this page. That poll will close tonight.
Speaking of polls, the new one is open and will stay open until Saturday night. Please feel free to vote and comment. We'll be back later with some recommended reading.
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Behind the Loss
There was no miraculous comeback for the People's Pigskin, which fell to Tinks Revenge by a final score of 110-79. The season record is now 3-3. Here's the breakdown of the breakdown.
Kurt Warner, QB. The stats: 32 of 41 passing for 276 yards, 2 touchdowns, 1 interception, 1 fumble, and 15 fantasy points. Warner once again was the engine for the Arizona Cardinals offense, but the turnovers held down Kurt's fantasy numbers. (So did Seattle's lack of offense, which kept Kurt from having to throw deep late in the game.)
Matt Forte, RB. The stats: 15 rushes for 23 yards, 5 receptions for 37 yards, 1 fumble, and 3 fantasy points. Matt had a golden opportunity to score a touchdown for the Bears, but his goal-line fumble was a killer for the Chicago Bears.
Steve Slaton, RB. The stats: 19 rushes for 43 yards, 6 receptions for 102 yards, 1 touchdown, 1 fumble, and 18 fantasy points. We can't complain about Steve's Sunday, but his point total simply could not compete with the Revenge's big numbers from DeAngelo Williams (29) and Ray Rice (30).
Chad Ochocino, Flex. The stats: 5 receptions, 103 yards, and 10 fantasy points. The Cincinnati Bengals had a rough outing against the Houston Texans. Chad needs to start finding the end zone again.
Greg Jennings, WR. The stats: 6 receptions, 64 yards, and 6 fantasy points. The Green Bay Packers put up 26 points against the lowly Detroit Lions, but Jennings couldn't get a piece of that.
T.J. Houshmandzadeh, WR. The stats: 4 receptions, 34 yards, and 3 fantasy points. The Seattle Seahawks had a miserable outing against the Arizona Cardinals. And from T.J.'s numbers, you'd think Seneca Wallace was the starting quarterback.
Chris Cooley, TE. The stats: 5 receptions, 57 yards, and 5 fantasy points. Perhaps Cooley should spend a little less time at the pottery wheel and a little more time in the end zone.
Matt Prater, K. The stats: 2 field goals, 4 extra points, and 9 fantasy points. Thanks for playing, Matt. It was fun while it lasted.
Philadelphia Eagles, D/ST. The stats: 2 interceptions, 2 sacks, 13 points allowed, and 10 fantasy points. The defense did its part against the Oakland Raiders, though the offense laid an Eagle-size egg.
Bench. Not much help there: Jamal Lewis scored 3 points, and Chris "Beanie" Wells scored 2.
We'll regroup and offer a week 7 preview tomorrow.
Kurt Warner, QB. The stats: 32 of 41 passing for 276 yards, 2 touchdowns, 1 interception, 1 fumble, and 15 fantasy points. Warner once again was the engine for the Arizona Cardinals offense, but the turnovers held down Kurt's fantasy numbers. (So did Seattle's lack of offense, which kept Kurt from having to throw deep late in the game.)
Matt Forte, RB. The stats: 15 rushes for 23 yards, 5 receptions for 37 yards, 1 fumble, and 3 fantasy points. Matt had a golden opportunity to score a touchdown for the Bears, but his goal-line fumble was a killer for the Chicago Bears.
Steve Slaton, RB. The stats: 19 rushes for 43 yards, 6 receptions for 102 yards, 1 touchdown, 1 fumble, and 18 fantasy points. We can't complain about Steve's Sunday, but his point total simply could not compete with the Revenge's big numbers from DeAngelo Williams (29) and Ray Rice (30).
Chad Ochocino, Flex. The stats: 5 receptions, 103 yards, and 10 fantasy points. The Cincinnati Bengals had a rough outing against the Houston Texans. Chad needs to start finding the end zone again.
Greg Jennings, WR. The stats: 6 receptions, 64 yards, and 6 fantasy points. The Green Bay Packers put up 26 points against the lowly Detroit Lions, but Jennings couldn't get a piece of that.
T.J. Houshmandzadeh, WR. The stats: 4 receptions, 34 yards, and 3 fantasy points. The Seattle Seahawks had a miserable outing against the Arizona Cardinals. And from T.J.'s numbers, you'd think Seneca Wallace was the starting quarterback.
Chris Cooley, TE. The stats: 5 receptions, 57 yards, and 5 fantasy points. Perhaps Cooley should spend a little less time at the pottery wheel and a little more time in the end zone.
Matt Prater, K. The stats: 2 field goals, 4 extra points, and 9 fantasy points. Thanks for playing, Matt. It was fun while it lasted.
Philadelphia Eagles, D/ST. The stats: 2 interceptions, 2 sacks, 13 points allowed, and 10 fantasy points. The defense did its part against the Oakland Raiders, though the offense laid an Eagle-size egg.
Bench. Not much help there: Jamal Lewis scored 3 points, and Chris "Beanie" Wells scored 2.
We'll regroup and offer a week 7 preview tomorrow.
Monday, October 19, 2009
Monday Afternoon Update (and a New Poll)
Premature congratulations are in order for Tinks Revenge, who will likely get that against the People's Pigskin this week. The Revenge currently enjoys a 103-70 lead over our team. In the Monday night matchup between the San Diego Chargers and the Denver Broncos, the Revenge has Antonio Gates, while we have Matt Prater, our newly acquired kicker. To paraphrase the immortal Sydney Greenstreet in "Casablanca," it would take a miracle for the Pigskin to beat the Revenge, and the Landshark Maniacs have outlawed miracles.
Speaking of Matt Prater, his time with the People's Pigskin will have to be brief, since his team has a bye next week. Yes, that means that you, the Internet, will be picking a free agent kicker for the second straight week. Here are the nominees:
Nick Folk, Dallas Cowboys. His team had a bye this week, but Folk has scored at least 5 fantasy points in every game this season. He's currently tied for 6th with 38 fantasy points for the season.
Jay Feely, New York Jets. A botched snap doomed his hope of kicking the winning field goal Sunday against the Buffalo Bills, but Feely has scored at least 4 fantasy points every game this season. He's tied for 8th with 37.
Dan Carpenter, Miami Dolphins. His team had a bye this week, but the only time Carpenter has scored fewer than 7 fantasy points was the season opener, when he scored 1. He's in 9th place with 36.
Those are your choices. Again, the polls are now located on the right-hand side of this page. Be sure to vote by Wednesday night, when this poll will close.
By the way, if you haven't done so already, you should check out Malcolm Gladwell's piece in the New Yorker on brain trauma and football players. I don't think it will stop anyone from putting on pads in hopes of being someone's fantasy football star someday, but it is a sobering reminder of what's truly on the line during every game.
We'll be back tomorrow with a detailed look at our team's performance and what can be done about it.
Speaking of Matt Prater, his time with the People's Pigskin will have to be brief, since his team has a bye next week. Yes, that means that you, the Internet, will be picking a free agent kicker for the second straight week. Here are the nominees:
Nick Folk, Dallas Cowboys. His team had a bye this week, but Folk has scored at least 5 fantasy points in every game this season. He's currently tied for 6th with 38 fantasy points for the season.
Jay Feely, New York Jets. A botched snap doomed his hope of kicking the winning field goal Sunday against the Buffalo Bills, but Feely has scored at least 4 fantasy points every game this season. He's tied for 8th with 37.
Dan Carpenter, Miami Dolphins. His team had a bye this week, but the only time Carpenter has scored fewer than 7 fantasy points was the season opener, when he scored 1. He's in 9th place with 36.
Those are your choices. Again, the polls are now located on the right-hand side of this page. Be sure to vote by Wednesday night, when this poll will close.
By the way, if you haven't done so already, you should check out Malcolm Gladwell's piece in the New Yorker on brain trauma and football players. I don't think it will stop anyone from putting on pads in hopes of being someone's fantasy football star someday, but it is a sobering reminder of what's truly on the line during every game.
We'll be back tomorrow with a detailed look at our team's performance and what can be done about it.
Sunday, October 18, 2009
The People's Choice: Week 6
Thanks to everyone who voted in our latest polls. You, the Internet, said that the People's Pigskin lineup should be left alone. So it was. This week's fantasy football matchup is a rematch against Tinks Revenge, who lost in week 3 to the Pigskin by a score of 54-45. You can follow this week's matchup here.
You, the Internet, also said you follow the football team located where you grew up. Personally, I'm relieved that no one said they chose their team because of the sexy uniforms.
Today, we have a poll suggested by a reader about the ongoing saga surrounding Tom Cable, Randy Hanson and the jaw that Cable may or may not have broken. And we have a layout change: From now on, the polls will appear on the right of the page (right under the people's football helmet) instead of within each post. That should make them easier to find.
At least, that's what I'm hoping.
Anyway, feel free to vote now, and enjoy the NFL action.
You, the Internet, also said you follow the football team located where you grew up. Personally, I'm relieved that no one said they chose their team because of the sexy uniforms.
Today, we have a poll suggested by a reader about the ongoing saga surrounding Tom Cable, Randy Hanson and the jaw that Cable may or may not have broken. And we have a layout change: From now on, the polls will appear on the right of the page (right under the people's football helmet) instead of within each post. That should make them easier to find.
At least, that's what I'm hoping.
Anyway, feel free to vote now, and enjoy the NFL action.
Saturday, October 17, 2009
Fearless Predictions: Week 6
Another week, another 2-3 performance for the predictions. Here's hoping you're not gambling with these forecasts, because the season record is now 13-12, and the vigorish alone would be killing you. Here are this week's predictions.
Peoples Pigskin vs. Tinks Revenge. You know what? I don't care what the experts think. My experts say the Internet guides the Pigskin to another victory.
T-bay jacks 151rum stumblrs vs. Hawaiian Surfriders. A pair of 2-3 teams try to start a run for the playoffs. I have more faith in LaDainian Tomlinson than I do in Steve Smith. Therefore, I'll take the stumblrs (and a 151 and coke, if anyone's pouring).
Big Lough O vs. D.C. Destroyers. This one's a mismatch. The Lough Os take it easily.
Houston Wreckin Crew vs. Northeast Dragons. What I said last week about not messing with 4-0 records? That goes for 5-0 records, too. The Dragons keep rolling.
Southern Rebels vs. Ravens Fan T Sizzle. Here's our upset special of the week. The Cedric Benson lovefest ends the moment someone decides to stuff the run and force throws. And the Giants defense will copy the Jets blueprint and keep Drew Brees out of the end zone. The Sizzle will reap the benefit of a win.
Remember: the lineup and loyalty polls are still open and will close Saturday night. Please vote, and enjoy the college games.
Peoples Pigskin vs. Tinks Revenge. You know what? I don't care what the experts think. My experts say the Internet guides the Pigskin to another victory.
T-bay jacks 151rum stumblrs vs. Hawaiian Surfriders. A pair of 2-3 teams try to start a run for the playoffs. I have more faith in LaDainian Tomlinson than I do in Steve Smith. Therefore, I'll take the stumblrs (and a 151 and coke, if anyone's pouring).
Big Lough O vs. D.C. Destroyers. This one's a mismatch. The Lough Os take it easily.
Houston Wreckin Crew vs. Northeast Dragons. What I said last week about not messing with 4-0 records? That goes for 5-0 records, too. The Dragons keep rolling.
Southern Rebels vs. Ravens Fan T Sizzle. Here's our upset special of the week. The Cedric Benson lovefest ends the moment someone decides to stuff the run and force throws. And the Giants defense will copy the Jets blueprint and keep Drew Brees out of the end zone. The Sizzle will reap the benefit of a win.
Remember: the lineup and loyalty polls are still open and will close Saturday night. Please vote, and enjoy the college games.
Friday, October 16, 2009
Happy Hour Reading
In the words of Jimmy Buffett, it's 5 o'clock somewhere as you read this, so while you decide how you'll vote in the lineup poll and the team devotion poll (and please vote), here are some random stories to spice up your day.
I'm a lover, not a receiver. How mad would you be to find out that a player on your fantasy football team was inactivated because he was out late with a female friend and missed a bed check? That's what happened to Mike Sims-Walker of the Jacksonville Jaguars last week. You have to wonder how that would be listed on the injury report. "Out: Mike Sims-Walker (libido)"
Someone's in a world of hurt. It could be worse for Mike. He could have been James Davis of the Cleveland Browns, whose season-ending injury reportedly occurred when he took part in a postgame drill, without pads, against a defender who was wearing pads. No reports on whether head coach Eric Mangini accused him of taking the strawberries.
Fashion statements. The National Football League has some strange ideas about what should be forbidden on its fields. According to the underrated uniformviolation.com, Eric Wright of the Browns (yes, the Browns again) was fined $5,000 last month for wearing pants that exposed his knee. This is on top of Chad Ochocinco's fine, also for $5,000, for wearing an orange chinstrap during a preseason game.
Personally, I'd take the NFL's uniform rules more seriously if the league itself didn't allow sights like these on its fields.
Back on the air. If you live in the Cincinnati area and have a Bengal on your roster (what are the odds, right?), you'll be relieved to know that the game has sold out and will not be blacked out, after all. Now you won't have to rely on fantasy-statistic-updating Web sites for updates on your team. You can watch it the way God intended: on one of these.
No, we don't throw darts (as far as you know). I got an e-mail this week from ESPN trying to explain how the folks in Bristol come up with their fantasy projections each week. Here are some highlights.
"Here's what you need to know about using our projections. It would be very simple for us to take our season-long projections, divide by 16 and simply trot out Adrian Peterson, Larry Fitzgerald and Peyton Manning (or Brees) at No. 1 every week. Simple, yes … but informative? No way. ...
"By mathematically analyzing each team's offensive tendencies in terms of play-calling and targeting choices, and then combining those statistics with the defensive strengths and weaknesses of that week's opponent, the numbers we ultimately come up with show which players can be expected to perform better or worse than usual in a given week. But these numbers are not to be taken as gospel; after all, predicting the future is an inexact science."
The e-mail then tells us why Rashard Mendenhall (remember him?) and Jason Campbell are expected to have big games. Then it tells us this:
"Let's face it; predicting touchdowns in the NFL can be like predicting fly outs to center field in baseball. There's no real rhyme or reason to it. Sure, a guy like Dwayne Bowe might be the most likely Chiefs receiver to find paydirt, but if he gets pushed out of bounds at the 1-yard line after a long pass, it's just as likely someone else (a running back, even Mike Vrabel) will go and steal another handful of potential fantasy points out from under him on the next play from scrimmage."
Glad to see that sometimes, they have no clue, either.
We'll be back tomorrow with Landshark Maniacs projections. Until then, vote.
I'm a lover, not a receiver. How mad would you be to find out that a player on your fantasy football team was inactivated because he was out late with a female friend and missed a bed check? That's what happened to Mike Sims-Walker of the Jacksonville Jaguars last week. You have to wonder how that would be listed on the injury report. "Out: Mike Sims-Walker (libido)"
Someone's in a world of hurt. It could be worse for Mike. He could have been James Davis of the Cleveland Browns, whose season-ending injury reportedly occurred when he took part in a postgame drill, without pads, against a defender who was wearing pads. No reports on whether head coach Eric Mangini accused him of taking the strawberries.
Fashion statements. The National Football League has some strange ideas about what should be forbidden on its fields. According to the underrated uniformviolation.com, Eric Wright of the Browns (yes, the Browns again) was fined $5,000 last month for wearing pants that exposed his knee. This is on top of Chad Ochocinco's fine, also for $5,000, for wearing an orange chinstrap during a preseason game.
Personally, I'd take the NFL's uniform rules more seriously if the league itself didn't allow sights like these on its fields.
Back on the air. If you live in the Cincinnati area and have a Bengal on your roster (what are the odds, right?), you'll be relieved to know that the game has sold out and will not be blacked out, after all. Now you won't have to rely on fantasy-statistic-updating Web sites for updates on your team. You can watch it the way God intended: on one of these.
No, we don't throw darts (as far as you know). I got an e-mail this week from ESPN trying to explain how the folks in Bristol come up with their fantasy projections each week. Here are some highlights.
"Here's what you need to know about using our projections. It would be very simple for us to take our season-long projections, divide by 16 and simply trot out Adrian Peterson, Larry Fitzgerald and Peyton Manning (or Brees) at No. 1 every week. Simple, yes … but informative? No way. ...
"By mathematically analyzing each team's offensive tendencies in terms of play-calling and targeting choices, and then combining those statistics with the defensive strengths and weaknesses of that week's opponent, the numbers we ultimately come up with show which players can be expected to perform better or worse than usual in a given week. But these numbers are not to be taken as gospel; after all, predicting the future is an inexact science."
The e-mail then tells us why Rashard Mendenhall (remember him?) and Jason Campbell are expected to have big games. Then it tells us this:
"Let's face it; predicting touchdowns in the NFL can be like predicting fly outs to center field in baseball. There's no real rhyme or reason to it. Sure, a guy like Dwayne Bowe might be the most likely Chiefs receiver to find paydirt, but if he gets pushed out of bounds at the 1-yard line after a long pass, it's just as likely someone else (a running back, even Mike Vrabel) will go and steal another handful of potential fantasy points out from under him on the next play from scrimmage."
Glad to see that sometimes, they have no clue, either.
We'll be back tomorrow with Landshark Maniacs projections. Until then, vote.
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Pick the People's Team - Week 6
Thanks to everyone who voted in this week's waiver polls. The winners (if someone being picked up from waivers for fantasy football can be called a winner) were Nate Washington and Matt Prater. Both of them are now part of our roster.
Now, it's the moment you've been waiting for all week -- the chance to pick the starters for the Landshark Maniacs matchup between the People's Pigskin and Tinks Revenge. Here's a look at the current starters and the options for lineup changes.
Quarterback. Once again, Kurt Warner is our starter. And despite predictions for more balance in the Arizona Cardinals play calls, he remains an invaluable part of any fantasy team. If you disagree, you can vote to bring Trent Edwards off the bench (and persuade your friends to do likewise).
Running back. Our starters are Matt Forte (who is reportedly recovered from his knee injury) and Steve Slaton, who faces the Cincinnati Bengals. If you want to send one of these players to the bench, we can put Derrick Ward into the lineup.
Flex. America's favorite touchdown celebrator, Chad Ochocinco, is in our flex spot this week. He didn't get to unveil his "Ricky Bobby" tribute last week, so maybe we'll get to see it this week. Hopefully, it won't involve praying to Tom Cruise. Anyway, if you want to take a pass on his antics, Nate Washington is an option.
Wide receiver. Our current starters are Greg Jennings (whose quarterback is showing his loyalty to his offensive line) and T.J. Houshmandzadeh, who caught two touchdowns for the Seattle Seahawks last week. If you want to bench one of them, Nate Washington can fill in.
We already discussed our kicker. There are no changes at tight end (Chris Cooley) or defense/special teams (Philadelphia Eagles).
Here's the poll. This system depends on votes by you, the Internet, so be sure to participate. And don't forget about our team loyalty poll. We'll be back with a Landshark Maniacs preview and/or some random thoughts.
[polldaddy poll=2123764]
Now, it's the moment you've been waiting for all week -- the chance to pick the starters for the Landshark Maniacs matchup between the People's Pigskin and Tinks Revenge. Here's a look at the current starters and the options for lineup changes.
Quarterback. Once again, Kurt Warner is our starter. And despite predictions for more balance in the Arizona Cardinals play calls, he remains an invaluable part of any fantasy team. If you disagree, you can vote to bring Trent Edwards off the bench (and persuade your friends to do likewise).
Running back. Our starters are Matt Forte (who is reportedly recovered from his knee injury) and Steve Slaton, who faces the Cincinnati Bengals. If you want to send one of these players to the bench, we can put Derrick Ward into the lineup.
Flex. America's favorite touchdown celebrator, Chad Ochocinco, is in our flex spot this week. He didn't get to unveil his "Ricky Bobby" tribute last week, so maybe we'll get to see it this week. Hopefully, it won't involve praying to Tom Cruise. Anyway, if you want to take a pass on his antics, Nate Washington is an option.
Wide receiver. Our current starters are Greg Jennings (whose quarterback is showing his loyalty to his offensive line) and T.J. Houshmandzadeh, who caught two touchdowns for the Seattle Seahawks last week. If you want to bench one of them, Nate Washington can fill in.
We already discussed our kicker. There are no changes at tight end (Chris Cooley) or defense/special teams (Philadelphia Eagles).
Here's the poll. This system depends on votes by you, the Internet, so be sure to participate. And don't forget about our team loyalty poll. We'll be back with a Landshark Maniacs preview and/or some random thoughts.
[polldaddy poll=2123764]
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
The Most Interchangeable Part
As any fantasy football player knows, there are 2 ironclad rules when it comes to kickers:
1. Don't take one until the final round of your draft. (That's the rule you'll read in every fantasy preview magazine, right before you see the magazine's experts break that rule in their mock draft.)
2. If your kicker has a bye week, or even a bad week, dump him and pick up a new one.
With that in mind, we have a second waiver wire poll to go with the Brandon Stokley and team devotion ones. It's time to say farewell to Nick Folk and pick up a new kicker. Here are the nominees.
Matt Prater, Denver Broncos. His team may wear ugly uniforms, but Prater is beautiful to fantasy owners. He ranks fourth among kickers with an average of 8.2 fantasy points a game.
Jason Hanson, Detroit Lions. His team can be as ugly as the Broncos uniforms at times, but Hanson is right behind Prater in production, ranking fifth with an average of 8 points a game.
Olindo Mare, Seattle Seahawks. T.J. Houshmandzadeh isn't the only Seahawk happy about Matt Hasselbeck's return from injury. Mare's 12 points this past Sunday leaves him sixth among kickers with an average of 7.6 points a game.
Those are the choices. This poll, like the Brandon Stokley one, will close Wednesday night. Thanks for voting.
[polldaddy poll=2115691]
1. Don't take one until the final round of your draft. (That's the rule you'll read in every fantasy preview magazine, right before you see the magazine's experts break that rule in their mock draft.)
2. If your kicker has a bye week, or even a bad week, dump him and pick up a new one.
With that in mind, we have a second waiver wire poll to go with the Brandon Stokley and team devotion ones. It's time to say farewell to Nick Folk and pick up a new kicker. Here are the nominees.
Matt Prater, Denver Broncos. His team may wear ugly uniforms, but Prater is beautiful to fantasy owners. He ranks fourth among kickers with an average of 8.2 fantasy points a game.
Jason Hanson, Detroit Lions. His team can be as ugly as the Broncos uniforms at times, but Hanson is right behind Prater in production, ranking fifth with an average of 8 points a game.
Olindo Mare, Seattle Seahawks. T.J. Houshmandzadeh isn't the only Seahawk happy about Matt Hasselbeck's return from injury. Mare's 12 points this past Sunday leaves him sixth among kickers with an average of 7.6 points a game.
Those are the choices. This poll, like the Brandon Stokley one, will close Wednesday night. Thanks for voting.
[polldaddy poll=2115691]
Monday, October 12, 2009
The People's Loss (and the Next Step)
Congratulations are in order for t-day jacks 151rum stumblrs, who defeated the People's Pigskin by a score of 77-76. Each team had two players put up zero points, so this one could easily have gone either way. Here's a breakdown of our team's letdown.
Kurt Warner, QB. The stats: 26 of 38 passing, 302 yards, 2 touchdowns, and 20 fantasy points. His team had to sweat a goal-line stand by its defense, but the Arizona Cardinals offense clearly goes through Warner.
Steve Slaton, RB. The stats: 13 rushes for 39 yards, 6 receptions for 59 yards, and 8 fantasy points. One has to wonder what would have happened, for both the Houston Texans and the People's Pigskin, if Slaton had been on the field for that goal-line stand.
Donald Brown, RB. The stats: 6 rushes for 22 yards, 2 receptions for 13 yards, and 3 fantasy points. The Indianapolis Colts did go into preserve-the-lead-and-kill-the-clock-with-runs mode with Brown late in the game, but Brown still couldn't find holes in the Tennessee Titans defense.
Brandon Stokley, Flex. The stats: 0 receptions, 1 target, and 0 fantasy points. More on him later.
T.J. Houshmandzadeh, WR. The stats: 5 receptions, 77 yards, 2 touchdowns, and 19 fantasy points. Now, there's the T.J. we all know and love. Matt Hasslebeck's return to form was a godsend for fantasy players who did not give up on his receivers.
Chad Ochocinco, WR. The stats: 7 receptions for 94 yards, 1 fumble, and 7 fantasy points. His Cincinnati Bengals rallied to beat the Baltimore Ravens, but Ochocinco was kept out of the end zone.
Chris Cooley, TE. The stats: 0 catches, 0 targets, and 0 fantasy points. Cooley was held without a catch for the first time since 2004, when he was a rookie. Hopefully, this won't become a trend.
Nick Folk, K. The stats: 2 for 3 on field goals, 2 extra points, and 7 fantasy points. Fantasy football players who started Folk may be the only people outside of Kansas City who were disappointed that Miles Austin scored in overtime to give the Dallas Cowboys a victory.
Philadelphia Eagles, D/ST. The stats: 3 interceptions, 1 safety, 14 points allowed, and 12 fantasy points. Yes, these numbers came against the hapless Tampa Bay Buccaneers, but as long as they keep coming (and as long as Donovan McNabb stays upright), we'll take them.
Bench. Jamal Lewis put up 11 points, and Trent Edwards put up 8.
Now, about Stokley, who was held without a fantasy points for the third straight week, it's time for him to go. (Yes, I'm being Mr. Obvious here.) That means it's time for you, the Internet, to vote on who should be picked up off the waiver wire. Here are the nominees.
Nate Washington, Tennessee Titans. He's averaging 7.5 fantasy points a game, and that average would have made the People's Pigskin 4-1 today instead of 3-2.
Kenny Britt, Tennessee Titans. Yes, another Titan, but this one has at least a point in every game this season.
Kelley Washington, Baltimore Ravens. His team is becoming a passing one as much as a running one, so Washington has as good a chance as anyone to get scores on any given week.
Earl Bennett, Chicago Bears. This receiver, whose team had a bye this week, has at least 2 fantasy points in every game this season.
Bobby Wade, Kansas City Chiefs. He has 2 touchdowns to his name so far this season, and this team seems ready to beat somebody.
Those are the nominees. Here is the poll. It will stay open until Wednesday. Please vote now.
[polldaddy poll=2109615]
Kurt Warner, QB. The stats: 26 of 38 passing, 302 yards, 2 touchdowns, and 20 fantasy points. His team had to sweat a goal-line stand by its defense, but the Arizona Cardinals offense clearly goes through Warner.
Steve Slaton, RB. The stats: 13 rushes for 39 yards, 6 receptions for 59 yards, and 8 fantasy points. One has to wonder what would have happened, for both the Houston Texans and the People's Pigskin, if Slaton had been on the field for that goal-line stand.
Donald Brown, RB. The stats: 6 rushes for 22 yards, 2 receptions for 13 yards, and 3 fantasy points. The Indianapolis Colts did go into preserve-the-lead-and-kill-the-clock-with-runs mode with Brown late in the game, but Brown still couldn't find holes in the Tennessee Titans defense.
Brandon Stokley, Flex. The stats: 0 receptions, 1 target, and 0 fantasy points. More on him later.
T.J. Houshmandzadeh, WR. The stats: 5 receptions, 77 yards, 2 touchdowns, and 19 fantasy points. Now, there's the T.J. we all know and love. Matt Hasslebeck's return to form was a godsend for fantasy players who did not give up on his receivers.
Chad Ochocinco, WR. The stats: 7 receptions for 94 yards, 1 fumble, and 7 fantasy points. His Cincinnati Bengals rallied to beat the Baltimore Ravens, but Ochocinco was kept out of the end zone.
Chris Cooley, TE. The stats: 0 catches, 0 targets, and 0 fantasy points. Cooley was held without a catch for the first time since 2004, when he was a rookie. Hopefully, this won't become a trend.
Nick Folk, K. The stats: 2 for 3 on field goals, 2 extra points, and 7 fantasy points. Fantasy football players who started Folk may be the only people outside of Kansas City who were disappointed that Miles Austin scored in overtime to give the Dallas Cowboys a victory.
Philadelphia Eagles, D/ST. The stats: 3 interceptions, 1 safety, 14 points allowed, and 12 fantasy points. Yes, these numbers came against the hapless Tampa Bay Buccaneers, but as long as they keep coming (and as long as Donovan McNabb stays upright), we'll take them.
Bench. Jamal Lewis put up 11 points, and Trent Edwards put up 8.
Now, about Stokley, who was held without a fantasy points for the third straight week, it's time for him to go. (Yes, I'm being Mr. Obvious here.) That means it's time for you, the Internet, to vote on who should be picked up off the waiver wire. Here are the nominees.
Nate Washington, Tennessee Titans. He's averaging 7.5 fantasy points a game, and that average would have made the People's Pigskin 4-1 today instead of 3-2.
Kenny Britt, Tennessee Titans. Yes, another Titan, but this one has at least a point in every game this season.
Kelley Washington, Baltimore Ravens. His team is becoming a passing one as much as a running one, so Washington has as good a chance as anyone to get scores on any given week.
Earl Bennett, Chicago Bears. This receiver, whose team had a bye this week, has at least 2 fantasy points in every game this season.
Bobby Wade, Kansas City Chiefs. He has 2 touchdowns to his name so far this season, and this team seems ready to beat somebody.
Those are the nominees. Here is the poll. It will stay open until Wednesday. Please vote now.
[polldaddy poll=2109615]
Sunday, October 11, 2009
Quick Update and Must Read
Two items of business before the Sunday night game between the Indianapolis Colts and the Tennessee Titans gets going tonight.
First, I feel a little like NBC right now. The network, looking at the Colts and Titans records thus far, must wish they had this week's selection back. And I wish we had a do-over on some slots tonight. The People's Pigskin currently holds a 71-70 lead over t-bay jacks 151rum stumblrs, but it may not last. The stumblrs have two Colts lining up tonight: Pierre Garcon and Adam Vinatieri. Our team has just one: Donald Brown. We need to hope Brown outperforms Garcon and Vinatieri combined. And betting against Adam in clutch moments is a bad idea.
Second, if you haven't read Michael Silver's interview with Randy Hanson, the Raiders assistant coach whose jaw may or may not have been broken by Tom Cable, you owe it to yourself to do so. Cable and the Raiders will have the National Football League's full resources available to them to get their side of the story out. Hanson, to put it bluntly, won't.
We'll be back tomorrow to wrap up this week and start working on next week.
First, I feel a little like NBC right now. The network, looking at the Colts and Titans records thus far, must wish they had this week's selection back. And I wish we had a do-over on some slots tonight. The People's Pigskin currently holds a 71-70 lead over t-bay jacks 151rum stumblrs, but it may not last. The stumblrs have two Colts lining up tonight: Pierre Garcon and Adam Vinatieri. Our team has just one: Donald Brown. We need to hope Brown outperforms Garcon and Vinatieri combined. And betting against Adam in clutch moments is a bad idea.
Second, if you haven't read Michael Silver's interview with Randy Hanson, the Raiders assistant coach whose jaw may or may not have been broken by Tom Cable, you owe it to yourself to do so. Cable and the Raiders will have the National Football League's full resources available to them to get their side of the story out. Hanson, to put it bluntly, won't.
We'll be back tomorrow to wrap up this week and start working on next week.
The People's Choice - Week 5
You, the Internet, have spoken once again on our lineup. You voted to leave it the way it is. And we successfully picked up Chris Cooley for the tight end slot, so here's how we look right now. And if you want to watch our matchup against t-bay jacks 151rum stumblrs, you can click here.
This week's poll deals with a certain reality about football: You probably fell in love with football -- and with a certain football team -- long before you got involved with fantasy football. Please vote.
We'll be back later with an update on this week's competition. Until then, enjoy the games and your Columbus Day weekend.
[polldaddy poll=2105175]
This week's poll deals with a certain reality about football: You probably fell in love with football -- and with a certain football team -- long before you got involved with fantasy football. Please vote.
We'll be back later with an update on this week's competition. Until then, enjoy the games and your Columbus Day weekend.
[polldaddy poll=2105175]
Saturday, October 10, 2009
Columbus Weekend Reading
The polls on what to do with our lineup and how you set up yours will close later tonight, but while you ponder how you will vote, I thought I'd offer you some links to visit.
Why Fooball Is Better Than Baseball. What does baseball say when the temperature drops below 30 degrees? No way, Jose Molina. What does football say when the temperature does that? Oh, yeah! Bring it on!
I Want My Vick TV. I'm not sure whether this should be called ridiculous or inevitable (or maybe both). Michael Vick (remember him?) will star in an eight-part documentary that will air on BET. Of course, the first thought that came into my mind was when the other Eagles backup QB was getting his show?
Don't Rush to Judgment. (Yes, I chose the cheap pun. Sue me.) Players like Bart Scott and Matthias Kiwanuka heard that someone's actually interested in the Rams and responded by saying they wouldn't play for Rush Limbaugh. Of course, before they say that, they should check out the histories of some of the people who have owned NFL teams in the past. George Marshall, for instance. Heck, at this point, I'd bet the Oakland Raiders would be glad to have an owner with a pulse.
Recommended Links. Sclike offers an insightful (and humorous) view on how Christians should feel about "Playing Fantasy Football for Money."
Also, a newcomer to the fantasy football game, Queen of the Savages, tells us how she got into the game. (Warning: The language here isn't safe for children, unless you want to have a certain conversation with said children.)
Again, vote on the polls. We'll be back with the results and a new poll on Sunday.
Why Fooball Is Better Than Baseball. What does baseball say when the temperature drops below 30 degrees? No way, Jose Molina. What does football say when the temperature does that? Oh, yeah! Bring it on!
I Want My Vick TV. I'm not sure whether this should be called ridiculous or inevitable (or maybe both). Michael Vick (remember him?) will star in an eight-part documentary that will air on BET. Of course, the first thought that came into my mind was when the other Eagles backup QB was getting his show?
Don't Rush to Judgment. (Yes, I chose the cheap pun. Sue me.) Players like Bart Scott and Matthias Kiwanuka heard that someone's actually interested in the Rams and responded by saying they wouldn't play for Rush Limbaugh. Of course, before they say that, they should check out the histories of some of the people who have owned NFL teams in the past. George Marshall, for instance. Heck, at this point, I'd bet the Oakland Raiders would be glad to have an owner with a pulse.
Recommended Links. Sclike offers an insightful (and humorous) view on how Christians should feel about "Playing Fantasy Football for Money."
Also, a newcomer to the fantasy football game, Queen of the Savages, tells us how she got into the game. (Warning: The language here isn't safe for children, unless you want to have a certain conversation with said children.)
Again, vote on the polls. We'll be back with the results and a new poll on Sunday.
Friday, October 9, 2009
Fearless Predictions: Week 5
While you decide how to vote in our lineup poll and our setting-your-own-lineup poll, here are some predictions for the Landshark Maniacs league matchups for this week. And remember, to paraphrase a certain extortion victim, this is not a competition. Please, no wagering.
(The predictions went 2-3 last week, lowering the season record to 11-9.)
People's Pigskin vs. t-bay jacks 151rum stumblrs. I like our chances more than the ESPN experts do. I don't care. The Pigskin will prevail.
Hawaiian Surfriders vs. Houston Wreckin' Crew. Adrian Peterson (remember him?) will make the difference here and give the Surfriders the win.
D.C. Destroyers vs. Northeast Dragons. I don't mess around with 4-0 records, whether they belong to the Denver Broncos or a fantasy team. The Dragons make it 5-0.
Southern Rebels vs. Big Lough O. The Rebels get Larry Fitzgerald back and get off the schneid as a result. (By the way, can I get a ruling on how to spell "schneid"? I normally hear it out of Chris Berman's mouth, and he doesn't do me the courtesy of spelling it.)
Ravens Fan T Sizzle vs. Tinks Revenge. An upset special, assuming the Sizzles get a quarterback and receiver into the appropriate spots by game time. The Sizzles win with the Jacksons, Fred and Steve. (Tito must have a bye week.)
You have until Saturday evening to vote on the lineup. We'll be back later with some light weekend reading.
(The predictions went 2-3 last week, lowering the season record to 11-9.)
People's Pigskin vs. t-bay jacks 151rum stumblrs. I like our chances more than the ESPN experts do. I don't care. The Pigskin will prevail.
Hawaiian Surfriders vs. Houston Wreckin' Crew. Adrian Peterson (remember him?) will make the difference here and give the Surfriders the win.
D.C. Destroyers vs. Northeast Dragons. I don't mess around with 4-0 records, whether they belong to the Denver Broncos or a fantasy team. The Dragons make it 5-0.
Southern Rebels vs. Big Lough O. The Rebels get Larry Fitzgerald back and get off the schneid as a result. (By the way, can I get a ruling on how to spell "schneid"? I normally hear it out of Chris Berman's mouth, and he doesn't do me the courtesy of spelling it.)
Ravens Fan T Sizzle vs. Tinks Revenge. An upset special, assuming the Sizzles get a quarterback and receiver into the appropriate spots by game time. The Sizzles win with the Jacksons, Fred and Steve. (Tito must have a bye week.)
You have until Saturday evening to vote on the lineup. We'll be back later with some light weekend reading.
Thursday, October 8, 2009
Pick the People's Team - Week 5
Thanks to those who voted in the latest waiver poll. Unfortunately, your unanimous choice (Jerome Harrison) got scooped up by someone else, so the People's Pigskin went "off the board" by making a claim on Chris Cooley of the Washington Redskins. This transaction would not be processed until Sunday morning, when Cooley would replace Kellen Winslow, who has become a nonentity in fantasy football for the time being.
Anyway, now it's time to prepare for this week's contest against the t-bay jacks 151 rum stumblrs. Let's take a look at our current lineup.
Quarterback. Kurt Warner, fresh off his bye week, returns to the starting lineup and faces the Houston Texans. Trent Edwards goes back to the bench but is available if you deem it necessary.
Running back. Matt Forte's Bears have their bye week, so our current starters are Steve Slaton (against the Arizona Cardinals) and Donald Brown (who faces the Tennessee Titans. If one of them is not to your liking, we can have Jamal Lewis (if he's healthy enough to play) or Chris "Beanie" Wells (if Lewis can't go).
Flex. Yes, it's another Brandon Stokley sighting. His Broncos get the New England Patriots. The other option is to insert Wells/Lewis here. (Again, Lewis would get the start if he's healthy, and Wells would get it if Lewis is still hurt.)
Wide receiver. With Greg Jennings having his bye week, we have a reunion of sorts: T.J. Houshmandzadeh (who faces the Jacksonville Jaguars) and Chad Ochocinco (who gets the Baltimore Ravens). If you want to bench one of them, we could go to the waiver wire for a replacement.
We already discussed the tight end situation. Nick Folk remains our kicker, and the Philadelphia Eagles defense/special teams return to the starting lineup this week.
Here's the poll. You should know the drill by now -- it will close Saturday night. Please vote now, and feel free to comment.
[polldaddy poll=2093245]
Anyway, now it's time to prepare for this week's contest against the t-bay jacks 151 rum stumblrs. Let's take a look at our current lineup.
Quarterback. Kurt Warner, fresh off his bye week, returns to the starting lineup and faces the Houston Texans. Trent Edwards goes back to the bench but is available if you deem it necessary.
Running back. Matt Forte's Bears have their bye week, so our current starters are Steve Slaton (against the Arizona Cardinals) and Donald Brown (who faces the Tennessee Titans. If one of them is not to your liking, we can have Jamal Lewis (if he's healthy enough to play) or Chris "Beanie" Wells (if Lewis can't go).
Flex. Yes, it's another Brandon Stokley sighting. His Broncos get the New England Patriots. The other option is to insert Wells/Lewis here. (Again, Lewis would get the start if he's healthy, and Wells would get it if Lewis is still hurt.)
Wide receiver. With Greg Jennings having his bye week, we have a reunion of sorts: T.J. Houshmandzadeh (who faces the Jacksonville Jaguars) and Chad Ochocinco (who gets the Baltimore Ravens). If you want to bench one of them, we could go to the waiver wire for a replacement.
We already discussed the tight end situation. Nick Folk remains our kicker, and the Philadelphia Eagles defense/special teams return to the starting lineup this week.
Here's the poll. You should know the drill by now -- it will close Saturday night. Please vote now, and feel free to comment.
[polldaddy poll=2093245]
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Mixed Signals at CBS (and Others)
Most people who play fantasy football don't set their teams the way we do here with polls like this one. Instead, they turn to expert opinions from TV shows, magazines, and Web sites. In fact, the author of the blog Collegiatelivin asked me recently if there was a site I could recommend to help make lineup decisions.
My advice on that front is this: You shouldn't depend on a single site for your expert advice. Each one is as likely as the other to be right on any given call on any given Sunday. And sometime the site may not even agree with itself.
To illustrate what I mean, I'm going to describe the fantasy football site at CBS Sportsline. (And I could just as easily be discussing many other sites, so don't interpret this as a rant against CBS.) Each week CBS Sportsline assigns a "Guru" score for each player. What does that mean? I'll let CBS Sportsline itself answer that:
"The Guru is not a person, but rather our top-secret statistical formula that takes into account each player's past performance, injury status and upcoming NFL opponent to predict the number of fantasy points that player will score this week, based on your scoring system."
CBS Sportsline also offers "Fantasy Analysis" for each player from CBS Sports experts. And sometimes this analysis...well, it seems as if whoever's doing this analysis was not involved in coming up with the Guru score. The left hand of the Web site doesn't know what the right hand is doing.
In setting my lineup for a fantasy team in a CBS Sportsline league, I looked up three wide receivers available on the waiver wire at the time. Here's what the Guru and the Fantasy Analysis said about each one:
Sidney Rice, Minnesota Vikings. Guru score: 3 fantasy points this week. Fantasy Analysis: "He's definitely getting more and more comfortable with Favre throwing passes and who wouldn't? Rice is quickly becoming one of Favre's favorite targets and that should increase his Fantasy value heading into Week 5 at St. Louis."
Kenny Britt, Tennessee Titans. Guru score: 8. Fantasy Analysis: "The Titans host the Colts in Week 5, and Collins could be forced to throw the ball quite a bit in that game, so you could do worse than taking a shot with Britt as a flier flex option in deeper leagues."
Miles Austin, Dallas Cowboys. Guru score: 10. Fantasy Analysis: "Austin has some sleeper potential, but the Cowboys don't seem interested in making him an integral part of the passing attack. Until he finds some consistency, you can leave him on waivers."
Follow along with me here. The player becoming one of Brett Favre's favorite targets (and the one I added to my lineup this week) was predicted by the Guru to score 3 points, while the one who, according to CBS Sports experts, should be left alone (and the one who, as of Wednesday afternoon, was still available in my league) was predicted by the Guru to score 10.
No wonder fantasy football sometimes makes people want to do this.
Remember to vote on the waiver poll, which closes tonight.
My advice on that front is this: You shouldn't depend on a single site for your expert advice. Each one is as likely as the other to be right on any given call on any given Sunday. And sometime the site may not even agree with itself.
To illustrate what I mean, I'm going to describe the fantasy football site at CBS Sportsline. (And I could just as easily be discussing many other sites, so don't interpret this as a rant against CBS.) Each week CBS Sportsline assigns a "Guru" score for each player. What does that mean? I'll let CBS Sportsline itself answer that:
"The Guru is not a person, but rather our top-secret statistical formula that takes into account each player's past performance, injury status and upcoming NFL opponent to predict the number of fantasy points that player will score this week, based on your scoring system."
CBS Sportsline also offers "Fantasy Analysis" for each player from CBS Sports experts. And sometimes this analysis...well, it seems as if whoever's doing this analysis was not involved in coming up with the Guru score. The left hand of the Web site doesn't know what the right hand is doing.
In setting my lineup for a fantasy team in a CBS Sportsline league, I looked up three wide receivers available on the waiver wire at the time. Here's what the Guru and the Fantasy Analysis said about each one:
Sidney Rice, Minnesota Vikings. Guru score: 3 fantasy points this week. Fantasy Analysis: "He's definitely getting more and more comfortable with Favre throwing passes and who wouldn't? Rice is quickly becoming one of Favre's favorite targets and that should increase his Fantasy value heading into Week 5 at St. Louis."
Kenny Britt, Tennessee Titans. Guru score: 8. Fantasy Analysis: "The Titans host the Colts in Week 5, and Collins could be forced to throw the ball quite a bit in that game, so you could do worse than taking a shot with Britt as a flier flex option in deeper leagues."
Miles Austin, Dallas Cowboys. Guru score: 10. Fantasy Analysis: "Austin has some sleeper potential, but the Cowboys don't seem interested in making him an integral part of the passing attack. Until he finds some consistency, you can leave him on waivers."
Follow along with me here. The player becoming one of Brett Favre's favorite targets (and the one I added to my lineup this week) was predicted by the Guru to score 3 points, while the one who, according to CBS Sports experts, should be left alone (and the one who, as of Wednesday afternoon, was still available in my league) was predicted by the Guru to score 10.
No wonder fantasy football sometimes makes people want to do this.
Remember to vote on the waiver poll, which closes tonight.
Receiver Developments
Don't oversleep if you're a fantasy football fan. If you do, you run the risk of missing major stories about your players.
If you were one of the many who drafted Michael Crabtree before the season, only to ditch him as his holdout lingered into the regular season, you may be interested to know that Crabtree has agreed to a deal with the San Francisco 49ers. Of course, this doesn't automatically make Mr. I Should Get As Much As Darrius Heyward-Bey relevant to fantasy football. Just because Crabtree is on the team does not automatically mean he'll be in the starting lineup on Sunday. He has a lot of catching up to do.
And if you're a fantasy player, that's not even the biggest news from Wednesday morning. ESPN Radio is reporting that Braylon Edwards has been traded to the New York Jets. That one, obviously, is huge. Edwards goes from playing with the Brady Quinn/Derek Anderson combo platter to catching passes from Mark Sanchez. He also escapes the Eric Mangini stalag that the Cleveland Browns are quickly becoming. (No word on whether LeBron James is letting Edwards off the hook, though.)
Back with more fantasy thoughts later.
If you were one of the many who drafted Michael Crabtree before the season, only to ditch him as his holdout lingered into the regular season, you may be interested to know that Crabtree has agreed to a deal with the San Francisco 49ers. Of course, this doesn't automatically make Mr. I Should Get As Much As Darrius Heyward-Bey relevant to fantasy football. Just because Crabtree is on the team does not automatically mean he'll be in the starting lineup on Sunday. He has a lot of catching up to do.
And if you're a fantasy player, that's not even the biggest news from Wednesday morning. ESPN Radio is reporting that Braylon Edwards has been traded to the New York Jets. That one, obviously, is huge. Edwards goes from playing with the Brady Quinn/Derek Anderson combo platter to catching passes from Mark Sanchez. He also escapes the Eric Mangini stalag that the Cleveland Browns are quickly becoming. (No word on whether LeBron James is letting Edwards off the hook, though.)
Back with more fantasy thoughts later.
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Behind the People's Victory
There were no Monday night miracles last night, even though Brett Favre was on the field. The People's Pigskin held on to defeat the Southern Rebels by a score of 115-94. Our record improved to 3-1. Here's a breakdown of how it happened.
Trent Edwards, QB. The stats: 14 of 26 passing, 192 yards, 1 touchdown, 3 interceptions, and 5 fantasy points. The Miami Dolphins made life miserable for Trent and the other Buffalo Bills all day. But fear not, fantasy football fans -- Kurt Warner is back in the lineup this week.
Matt Forte, RB. The stats: 12 rushes for 121 yards and 1 touchdown, 2 receptions for 29 yards, and 19 fantasy points. The Detroit Lions were just the tonic that Forte and the rest of the Chicago Bears needed, as the Monsters of the Midway racked up 48 points. Expect more good things from Matt.
Steve Slaton, RB. The stats: 21 rushes for 65 yards and a touchdown, 2 receptions for 24 yards and a second touchdown, 1 fumble, and 18 fantasy points. Another runner with an easy opponent. (Yes, I said it, and I might be banned for it.) The Houston Texans maintained control over the Oakland Raiders all day. Again, more good things to come to Steve.
Donald Brown, Flex. The stats: 9 rushes for 33 yards and 1 touchdown, 1 reception for 13 yards, and 10 fantasy points. One of Peyton Manning's many strengths is ball distribution. Brown is officially a backup to Joseph Addai, but the Indianapolis Colts are not shy about putting the ball in Brown's hands.
Greg Jennings, WR. The stats: 3 receptions, 31 yards, and 3 fantasy points. The Minnesota Vikings had the Green Bay Packers' number for most of the night. Jared Allen sacked Aaron Rodgers 4.5 times all by himself. It's tough for Aaron (or his predecessor) to complete passes when he's flat on his back.
Chad Ochocinco, WR. The stats: 3 receptions for 24 yards, 2 touchdowns, and 14 fantasy points. In all, Chad was targeted 11 times against the Cleveland Browns. There was no Dawg Pound leap, but maybe that was for the best.
Kellen Winslow, TE. The stats: 2 receptions, 21 yards, and 2 fantasy points. OK, so maybe the quarterback switch wasn't the tonic the Tampa Bay Buccaneers needed.
Nick Folk, K. The stats: 1 field goal made, 1 PAT made, and 5 fantasy points. Enough has been said elsewhere about the Dallas Cowboys performance against the Denver Broncos, so let's leave it at that.
San Francisco 49ers D/ST. The stats: 1 interception, 2 fumble recoveries, 2 touchdowns (that's 2 touchdowns scored, by the way), 0 points allowed, and 39 fantasy points. Once again, this defense was the top scorer in fantasy football this week. Normally, a bye week defense is sent right back to the waiver wire as soon as the other defense's bye week is over. But in this case? I wonder if the words "trade bait" apply here...
Anyway, be sure to vote in the waiver poll and offer a comment. We'll be back later with a look at this week's matchup.
Trent Edwards, QB. The stats: 14 of 26 passing, 192 yards, 1 touchdown, 3 interceptions, and 5 fantasy points. The Miami Dolphins made life miserable for Trent and the other Buffalo Bills all day. But fear not, fantasy football fans -- Kurt Warner is back in the lineup this week.
Matt Forte, RB. The stats: 12 rushes for 121 yards and 1 touchdown, 2 receptions for 29 yards, and 19 fantasy points. The Detroit Lions were just the tonic that Forte and the rest of the Chicago Bears needed, as the Monsters of the Midway racked up 48 points. Expect more good things from Matt.
Steve Slaton, RB. The stats: 21 rushes for 65 yards and a touchdown, 2 receptions for 24 yards and a second touchdown, 1 fumble, and 18 fantasy points. Another runner with an easy opponent. (Yes, I said it, and I might be banned for it.) The Houston Texans maintained control over the Oakland Raiders all day. Again, more good things to come to Steve.
Donald Brown, Flex. The stats: 9 rushes for 33 yards and 1 touchdown, 1 reception for 13 yards, and 10 fantasy points. One of Peyton Manning's many strengths is ball distribution. Brown is officially a backup to Joseph Addai, but the Indianapolis Colts are not shy about putting the ball in Brown's hands.
Greg Jennings, WR. The stats: 3 receptions, 31 yards, and 3 fantasy points. The Minnesota Vikings had the Green Bay Packers' number for most of the night. Jared Allen sacked Aaron Rodgers 4.5 times all by himself. It's tough for Aaron (or his predecessor) to complete passes when he's flat on his back.
Chad Ochocinco, WR. The stats: 3 receptions for 24 yards, 2 touchdowns, and 14 fantasy points. In all, Chad was targeted 11 times against the Cleveland Browns. There was no Dawg Pound leap, but maybe that was for the best.
Kellen Winslow, TE. The stats: 2 receptions, 21 yards, and 2 fantasy points. OK, so maybe the quarterback switch wasn't the tonic the Tampa Bay Buccaneers needed.
Nick Folk, K. The stats: 1 field goal made, 1 PAT made, and 5 fantasy points. Enough has been said elsewhere about the Dallas Cowboys performance against the Denver Broncos, so let's leave it at that.
San Francisco 49ers D/ST. The stats: 1 interception, 2 fumble recoveries, 2 touchdowns (that's 2 touchdowns scored, by the way), 0 points allowed, and 39 fantasy points. Once again, this defense was the top scorer in fantasy football this week. Normally, a bye week defense is sent right back to the waiver wire as soon as the other defense's bye week is over. But in this case? I wonder if the words "trade bait" apply here...
Anyway, be sure to vote in the waiver poll and offer a comment. We'll be back later with a look at this week's matchup.
Monday, October 5, 2009
Monday Night Preview (and a Waiver Poll)
There are some gifts that you simply shouldn't investigate too closely. Sometime between Sunday night and Monday afternoon, someone at ESPN changed the point total for the San Francisco 49ers defense/special teams from 31 to 39. As of 7:25 p.m. EDT Monday, that defense is the top fantasy football scorer from week 5 -- not the top-scoring defense, but the top scorer, period. Great call on your part, loyal Web surfers.
As a result of that adjustment, the People's Pigskin enters the Monday night game with a 112-89 lead over the Southern Rebels. (Of course, you'll be watching that game to see if Mason Crosby can outscore Greg Jennings, right?)
Speaking of Jennings, he and Matt Forte have their bye week coming up, and it might be a good idea to get someone off the waiver wire to be available if necessary. You know what that means? Another poll. Here are your choices.
Jerome Harrison, RB, Cleveland Browns. Anyone can benefit from a teammate's injury (in his case, Jamal Lewis' and James Lewis'), but it takes a real player to make the most of the opportunity. Last week Harrison ran for 121 yards and picked up 13 fantasy points. He faces the Buffalo Bills in week 5.
Steve Breaston, WR, Arizona Cardinals. His team had its bye this past week, but in week 3 this so-called third receiver got 94 yards and scored 9 fantasy points. He faces the Houston Texans in week 5.
Kenny Britt, WR, Tennessee Titans. His team is a disappointment, but Britt is getting his share of looks. Last week he racked up 105 yards and scored 10 fantasy points. He faces the Indianapolis Colts in week 5.
Here's the poll. Again, it will be open until Wednesday night, so we can get our request in. And feel free to leave a comment if you think we should go in a different direction.
[polldaddy poll=2082081]
As a result of that adjustment, the People's Pigskin enters the Monday night game with a 112-89 lead over the Southern Rebels. (Of course, you'll be watching that game to see if Mason Crosby can outscore Greg Jennings, right?)
Speaking of Jennings, he and Matt Forte have their bye week coming up, and it might be a good idea to get someone off the waiver wire to be available if necessary. You know what that means? Another poll. Here are your choices.
Jerome Harrison, RB, Cleveland Browns. Anyone can benefit from a teammate's injury (in his case, Jamal Lewis' and James Lewis'), but it takes a real player to make the most of the opportunity. Last week Harrison ran for 121 yards and picked up 13 fantasy points. He faces the Buffalo Bills in week 5.
Steve Breaston, WR, Arizona Cardinals. His team had its bye this past week, but in week 3 this so-called third receiver got 94 yards and scored 9 fantasy points. He faces the Houston Texans in week 5.
Kenny Britt, WR, Tennessee Titans. His team is a disappointment, but Britt is getting his share of looks. Last week he racked up 105 yards and scored 10 fantasy points. He faces the Indianapolis Colts in week 5.
Here's the poll. Again, it will be open until Wednesday night, so we can get our request in. And feel free to leave a comment if you think we should go in a different direction.
[polldaddy poll=2082081]
Sunday, October 4, 2009
A Hurry-Up Update
As fantasy football players wait for Sunday night's game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the San Diego Chargers, I should tell you that the People's Pigskin has built a 106-62 lead over the Southern Rebels. Of course, we are not out of the woods yet. The Rebels have Ben Roethlisberger (whose legal fight will linger a little longer) and the San Diego Chargers defense/special teams tonight, along with Mason Crosby tomorrow. We have Greg Jennings tomorrow.
The star of the week so far is the San Francisco 49ers defense/special teams, which put up 31 points for the People's Pigskin. Of course, that should be no surprise by now, since they're coached by this guy.
We'll be back tomorrow with a more updated update. In the meantime, be sure to vote in our latest poll.
The star of the week so far is the San Francisco 49ers defense/special teams, which put up 31 points for the People's Pigskin. Of course, that should be no surprise by now, since they're coached by this guy.
We'll be back tomorrow with a more updated update. In the meantime, be sure to vote in our latest poll.
The People's Choice - Week 4
Another week has passed, another Raiders critic has probably earned a ban from team facilities, and once again you, the Internet, have spoken. You said that the People's Pigskin should leave its lineup alone for its matchup against the Southern Rebels. Here's where you can follow along as the day progresses.
In the other poll, a majority of you (well, 50% of you, anyway) said you spend 6-8 hours a week working on your fantasy football team. Interestingly, no one chose the "I have no life" option. If you're one of the many spending that much time on your team, go ahead, ignore the side effects, and get some extra sleep this week.
Before you hit the snooze button, though, let me give you a heads-up: If you see a lot of pink while watching this weekend's NFL action, don't worry. You're not having a Dumbo-style hallucination. You're just observing the National Football League's Crucial Catch promotion to fight cancer. The pink apparel and other equipment will be auctioned to raise money for the fight. Help if you can.
We'll be back later with an early look at our results. In the meantime, a new poll can be found right here. Feel free to provide your vote and/or comment.
[polldaddy poll=2075468]
In the other poll, a majority of you (well, 50% of you, anyway) said you spend 6-8 hours a week working on your fantasy football team. Interestingly, no one chose the "I have no life" option. If you're one of the many spending that much time on your team, go ahead, ignore the side effects, and get some extra sleep this week.
Before you hit the snooze button, though, let me give you a heads-up: If you see a lot of pink while watching this weekend's NFL action, don't worry. You're not having a Dumbo-style hallucination. You're just observing the National Football League's Crucial Catch promotion to fight cancer. The pink apparel and other equipment will be auctioned to raise money for the fight. Help if you can.
We'll be back later with an early look at our results. In the meantime, a new poll can be found right here. Feel free to provide your vote and/or comment.
[polldaddy poll=2075468]
Friday, October 2, 2009
Fearless Predictions: Week 4
While you contemplate what to do with our lineup and our time poll, here are some predictions for the Landshark Maniacs matchups.
(Last week's predictions went 3-2, raising the season record to 9-6.)
Peoples Pigskin vs. Southern Rebels. You, the Internet, should consider yourselves fortunate that this matchp occurs this week. The Rebels will be missing Frank Gore (injury), along with both Larry Fitzgerald and Anquan Boldin (bye week). This one will be close, but the Pigskin will prevail.
Hawaiian Surfriders vs. D.C. Destroyers. This week's beneficiary of a teammate's injury: Tashard Choice. With Felix Jones out (and Marion Barber the biggest Dallas question mark since Who Shot J.R.), I'm disagreeing with the ESPN "experts" and predicting a Destroyers win.
T-Bay Jacks 151rum Stumblrs vs. Northeast Dragons. Aaron Rodgers will do enough to make this interesting Monday night, but Peyton Manning (not Drew Brees) is currently the top-scoring quarterback in fantasy football, and I see no reason for that to change this week as the Indianapolis Colts take on the stumbling Seattle Seahawks. Chalk one up for the Stumblrs.
Big Lough O vs. Tinks Revenge. Once again, the last two opponents of the People's Pigskin face one another. As I write this, the Lough Os have Matt Ryan (bye week) as the starter, and the Revenge have yet to pick a kicker, but I'm trusting that those things will change by gametime. What won't change is my opinion that Maurice Jones-Drew proves too much for the Revenge and carries the Lough Os to a win on his back.
Houston Wreckin' Crew vs. Ravens Fan T-Sizzle. Again, an incomplete lineup as I write this: The Crew have to pick a running back. The difference here is the Moss brothers: Randy and Santana. (Yes, I realize they're not actually brothers; work with me here.) Both of them woke up last week, and I think both of them get enough looks to get the Crew to the winner's circle.
I leave you with this thought from the amazingly talented Bill Simmons:
"FYI: I continue to hate fantasy football and wonder why I participate in something that gives me a 90 percent chance of being angry and feeling bad about myself. This is fun? It's fun to watch your first-round pick standing sullenly on the sidelines every week as his backup whom you forgot to pick as a handcuff is putting up points? That's fun? REALLY? THAT'S FUN? I'M HAVING FUN?"
Here's hoping your fantasy football experience is slightly better. And don't forget to vote.
(Last week's predictions went 3-2, raising the season record to 9-6.)
Peoples Pigskin vs. Southern Rebels. You, the Internet, should consider yourselves fortunate that this matchp occurs this week. The Rebels will be missing Frank Gore (injury), along with both Larry Fitzgerald and Anquan Boldin (bye week). This one will be close, but the Pigskin will prevail.
Hawaiian Surfriders vs. D.C. Destroyers. This week's beneficiary of a teammate's injury: Tashard Choice. With Felix Jones out (and Marion Barber the biggest Dallas question mark since Who Shot J.R.), I'm disagreeing with the ESPN "experts" and predicting a Destroyers win.
T-Bay Jacks 151rum Stumblrs vs. Northeast Dragons. Aaron Rodgers will do enough to make this interesting Monday night, but Peyton Manning (not Drew Brees) is currently the top-scoring quarterback in fantasy football, and I see no reason for that to change this week as the Indianapolis Colts take on the stumbling Seattle Seahawks. Chalk one up for the Stumblrs.
Big Lough O vs. Tinks Revenge. Once again, the last two opponents of the People's Pigskin face one another. As I write this, the Lough Os have Matt Ryan (bye week) as the starter, and the Revenge have yet to pick a kicker, but I'm trusting that those things will change by gametime. What won't change is my opinion that Maurice Jones-Drew proves too much for the Revenge and carries the Lough Os to a win on his back.
Houston Wreckin' Crew vs. Ravens Fan T-Sizzle. Again, an incomplete lineup as I write this: The Crew have to pick a running back. The difference here is the Moss brothers: Randy and Santana. (Yes, I realize they're not actually brothers; work with me here.) Both of them woke up last week, and I think both of them get enough looks to get the Crew to the winner's circle.
I leave you with this thought from the amazingly talented Bill Simmons:
"FYI: I continue to hate fantasy football and wonder why I participate in something that gives me a 90 percent chance of being angry and feeling bad about myself. This is fun? It's fun to watch your first-round pick standing sullenly on the sidelines every week as his backup whom you forgot to pick as a handcuff is putting up points? That's fun? REALLY? THAT'S FUN? I'M HAVING FUN?"
Here's hoping your fantasy football experience is slightly better. And don't forget to vote.
Weekend Reading (and Thoughts)
Remember, now's the time to vote on our starting lineup for this week's game against the Southern Rebels.
I'll offer my predictions for the Landshark Maniacs league later, but first I wanted to offer some interesting links and thoughts, some of them germane to fantasy football.
Put me in, Coach. If you looked at the bench players for Southern Rebels, you'd notice that she has Larry Fitzgerald, whose Arizona Cardinals have a bye week. (Insert huge sigh of relief here.) You would also notice a symbol next to Larry's name that indicates a promotion. ESPN is giving away footballs autographed by Larry himself. All you have to do to be eligible is put Larry into your starting lineup -- you know, as if you were on the fence about starting him or something. I'd try to persuade the Southern Rebels to start him this week to get another chance at a football, but clearly my opponent is too smart for that. She's starting Cedric Benson against the Browns, after all.
Clearly, this was the problem. What do you do if you're the coach of a team that's an unimpressive 1-2 and is having its home games blacked out? You cancel your quarterback's radio show. At least, that's what you do if you're Jack Del Rio, who shut down David Garrard's weekly show. Del Rio says he didn't like the timing of the show (which aired Friday afternoons and didn't conflict with any scheduled team activities) or the fact that Garrard was talking about things other than the upcoming opponent so close to game time. I'm not going to argue that Garrard couldn't use more film study -- these stats don't lie -- but I'm wondering if Del Rio would be better served worrying about his 25th-ranked defense rather than how his quarterback spends his down time.
(How does the above relate to fantasy football? Umm...don't start Garrard, regardless of when he's on the radio.)
Hot read. In addition to kissing babies and rigging Lambeau Leaps, our good friend Chad Ochocino has written a book, "Ocho Cinco: What Football and Life Have Thrown My Way." The book (written with help from Jason Cole of Yahoo! Sports) is set for release Oct. 27 and features insights like this: "I got six paintings of myself in the living room of my town house in Cincinnati. Why? Because I love me. I’m great and I know it." I'm sure you'll be keeping that factoid in mind while deciding the People's Pigskin lineup.
Nobody asked, but... I don't get why Terrell Owens is getting sandblasted in some places for his press conference after the Buffalo Bills lost to the New Orleans Saints last week and his 185-game reception streak ended. He was given opportunity after opportunity to throw his coaches and teammates under the bus and then back the bus over them, but this time he didn't take the bait. (And I've got to be honest here -- some of the questions were an attempt to bait him.) He said that his job was to run the plays that were called. In other words, he's there to be a player, not a coach. If he had given that type of answer a few more times in Dallas, he may still be a Dallas Cowboy today. If he had given that type of answer a few more times in Philadelphia, he may still be a Philadelphia Eagle today. If he had given that type of answer a few more times in San Francisco ... well, you get the idea. And if that makes me a contrarian, then I'll have to be a contrarian who would still start Owens in any fantasy matchup.
Speaking of contrarian thoughts. Continuing a theme from last week, I couldn't resist offering this link to a fellow blogger's post, "Why I Dislike Fantasy Football." Even though I disagree with her about liking fantasy sports (and I'm sure many of you feel the same way), I appreciate Jessica Morrey's reasoned approach to fantasy and her love for the sport of football itself. Most articles in the "I don't like fantasy" genre are much less kind to those of us who play fantasy sports.
Stay tuned for predictions later today.
I'll offer my predictions for the Landshark Maniacs league later, but first I wanted to offer some interesting links and thoughts, some of them germane to fantasy football.
Put me in, Coach. If you looked at the bench players for Southern Rebels, you'd notice that she has Larry Fitzgerald, whose Arizona Cardinals have a bye week. (Insert huge sigh of relief here.) You would also notice a symbol next to Larry's name that indicates a promotion. ESPN is giving away footballs autographed by Larry himself. All you have to do to be eligible is put Larry into your starting lineup -- you know, as if you were on the fence about starting him or something. I'd try to persuade the Southern Rebels to start him this week to get another chance at a football, but clearly my opponent is too smart for that. She's starting Cedric Benson against the Browns, after all.
Clearly, this was the problem. What do you do if you're the coach of a team that's an unimpressive 1-2 and is having its home games blacked out? You cancel your quarterback's radio show. At least, that's what you do if you're Jack Del Rio, who shut down David Garrard's weekly show. Del Rio says he didn't like the timing of the show (which aired Friday afternoons and didn't conflict with any scheduled team activities) or the fact that Garrard was talking about things other than the upcoming opponent so close to game time. I'm not going to argue that Garrard couldn't use more film study -- these stats don't lie -- but I'm wondering if Del Rio would be better served worrying about his 25th-ranked defense rather than how his quarterback spends his down time.
(How does the above relate to fantasy football? Umm...don't start Garrard, regardless of when he's on the radio.)
Hot read. In addition to kissing babies and rigging Lambeau Leaps, our good friend Chad Ochocino has written a book, "Ocho Cinco: What Football and Life Have Thrown My Way." The book (written with help from Jason Cole of Yahoo! Sports) is set for release Oct. 27 and features insights like this: "I got six paintings of myself in the living room of my town house in Cincinnati. Why? Because I love me. I’m great and I know it." I'm sure you'll be keeping that factoid in mind while deciding the People's Pigskin lineup.
Nobody asked, but... I don't get why Terrell Owens is getting sandblasted in some places for his press conference after the Buffalo Bills lost to the New Orleans Saints last week and his 185-game reception streak ended. He was given opportunity after opportunity to throw his coaches and teammates under the bus and then back the bus over them, but this time he didn't take the bait. (And I've got to be honest here -- some of the questions were an attempt to bait him.) He said that his job was to run the plays that were called. In other words, he's there to be a player, not a coach. If he had given that type of answer a few more times in Dallas, he may still be a Dallas Cowboy today. If he had given that type of answer a few more times in Philadelphia, he may still be a Philadelphia Eagle today. If he had given that type of answer a few more times in San Francisco ... well, you get the idea. And if that makes me a contrarian, then I'll have to be a contrarian who would still start Owens in any fantasy matchup.
Speaking of contrarian thoughts. Continuing a theme from last week, I couldn't resist offering this link to a fellow blogger's post, "Why I Dislike Fantasy Football." Even though I disagree with her about liking fantasy sports (and I'm sure many of you feel the same way), I appreciate Jessica Morrey's reasoned approach to fantasy and her love for the sport of football itself. Most articles in the "I don't like fantasy" genre are much less kind to those of us who play fantasy sports.
Stay tuned for predictions later today.
Thursday, October 1, 2009
Pick the People's Team - Week 4
First of all, thanks to those of you who voted and commented on our defense poll. You were unanimous in saying the San Francisco 49ers should start this week in the Eagles' place, so the 49ers will start in our game against the Southern Rebels.
And now the moment you fantasy football fanatics have all been waiting for ... it's time to pick our starters. Here's who's slated to play right now, and here are your options.
Quarterback. Trent Edwards remains a starter for one simple reason: Kurt Warner and the Arizona Cardinals have a bye week. If you feel Trent needs to take a seat, the People's Pigskin will need to find a free agent.
Running back. Matt Forte and Steve Slaton are our current starters. We have subs available, but they are either questionable with injuries (Jamal Lewis) or on a bye week (Chris "Beanie" Wells). If you want to sit one of them, Derrick Ward could be pressed into service, since the Bucs won't be getting big numbers from their quarterback anytime soon.
Flex. Donald Brown, our top scorer last week, gets the nod once again. If we want someone else, T.J. Houshmandzadeh (whose last name I can now spell in my sleep) can be pressed into service. Either way, we'll have reason to watch the Indianapolis Colts-Seattle Seahawks game.
Wide receiver. Once again, our starters are Greg Jennings and Chad Ochocinco. Chad and the Cincinnati Bengals face the reeling Cleveland Browns, while Greg gives us the potential to make a Monday night comeback. If either option isn't an option for you, Mr. Houshmandzadeh is available.
We've already discussed our defense. There's no change at tight end (Kellen Winslow) or kicker (Nick Folk).
Here's the poll. Once again, you have until Saturday evening to vote. And don't forget about our other poll. We'll be back later with a preview of this week's Landshark Maniacs action.
[polldaddy poll=2063505]
And now the moment you fantasy football fanatics have all been waiting for ... it's time to pick our starters. Here's who's slated to play right now, and here are your options.
Quarterback. Trent Edwards remains a starter for one simple reason: Kurt Warner and the Arizona Cardinals have a bye week. If you feel Trent needs to take a seat, the People's Pigskin will need to find a free agent.
Running back. Matt Forte and Steve Slaton are our current starters. We have subs available, but they are either questionable with injuries (Jamal Lewis) or on a bye week (Chris "Beanie" Wells). If you want to sit one of them, Derrick Ward could be pressed into service, since the Bucs won't be getting big numbers from their quarterback anytime soon.
Flex. Donald Brown, our top scorer last week, gets the nod once again. If we want someone else, T.J. Houshmandzadeh (whose last name I can now spell in my sleep) can be pressed into service. Either way, we'll have reason to watch the Indianapolis Colts-Seattle Seahawks game.
Wide receiver. Once again, our starters are Greg Jennings and Chad Ochocinco. Chad and the Cincinnati Bengals face the reeling Cleveland Browns, while Greg gives us the potential to make a Monday night comeback. If either option isn't an option for you, Mr. Houshmandzadeh is available.
We've already discussed our defense. There's no change at tight end (Kellen Winslow) or kicker (Nick Folk).
Here's the poll. Once again, you have until Saturday evening to vote. And don't forget about our other poll. We'll be back later with a preview of this week's Landshark Maniacs action.
[polldaddy poll=2063505]
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