We'll get back to our quest for glory in the NFL Fantasy Playoff Challenge in the next post. In the meantime, since I now know the AFC won't be needing to play quarterback in the Pro Bowl, it's time to make an announcement.
The People's Pigskin started as an experiment in fantasy football by democracy. The goal was to determine whether polls by you, the Internet, could produce a fantasy football team that performed just as well as one that based its decisions on "expert" opinions from people paid to have opinions. The experiment has been a success, so we are expanding it into another venture.
Ladies and gentlemen, say hello to the People's Pitstop, an experiment in fantasy auto racing by democracy.
Why auto racing? First of all, the NASCAR racing season starts in early February, minimizing the down time for this site. Second, and more importantly, NASCAR racing isn't just for rednecks anymore. What do California, Illinois, Pennsylvania and New York have in common? Each state will host at least one NASCAR Sprint Cup race this year. Fox may play to the redneck crowd by having Darrell Waltrip in the booth, but people have enjoyed watching one person drive faster than the other since Romans were racing chariots.
This experiment, like the last one (which will resume next football season), will rely on you, the Internet, to vote in polls to stock our fantasy racing team from week to week. This time, the venue is Yahoo! Sports Fantasy Auto Racing, and the goal is to win the Friends of From the Marbles league. (The league is named for Yahoo's racing blog From the Marbles.)
The first race is the Daytona 500 on Feb. 14 (yes, Valentine's Day), so we'll get to the mechanics of stocking the team next week. In the meantime, you can learn about NASCAR racing here and read the rules for the fantasy game here.
We'll be back tomorrow with an update on the Internet's favorite football team and the polls for Super Bowl week.
Showing posts with label democracy. Show all posts
Showing posts with label democracy. Show all posts
Friday, January 29, 2010
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Pick the People's Team - Week 15
Thanks to those of you who voted in our Austin Collie poll. You voted to keep Collie in our lineup for Thursday's game between the Indianapolis Colts and the Jacksonville Jaguars. The results are at the bottom of this post.
Now it's time to address the rest of our lineup for our week 15 matchup against the Houston Wreckin' Crew.
Quarterback. Despite his lackluster performance on Monday night, Kurt Warner retains his spot in the starting lineup and faces the Detroit Lions. If he gets benched, Matt Cassel gets his spot.
Running back. Our starters for this week are Julius Jones, who faces the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and Chris "Beanie" Wells, who faces the Lions. Matt Forte is available on the bench as a substitute.
Flex. This week's flex starter is Greg Jennings, whose Green Bay Packers take on the reeling Pittsburgh Steelers. Again, Matt Forte is available to take his spot.
Wide receiver. Our starters are Chad Ochocinco and the aforementioned Austin Collie. Nate Washington may substitute for Ochocinco if he's voted to the bench.
Defense/special teams. The Philadelphia Eagles keep their starting spot and take on the San Francisco 49ers, whose defense can be called off the bench if necessary.
The winner of our kicker poll will get that spot, and Jeremy Shockey remains the tight end.
The lineup poll is now open and will close early Sunday. Please vote. I'll be away from my computer Thursday and Friday, so the next update may not be until Saturday. In the meantime, enjoy the Colts-Jaguars game.
[polldaddy poll=2390270]
Now it's time to address the rest of our lineup for our week 15 matchup against the Houston Wreckin' Crew.
Quarterback. Despite his lackluster performance on Monday night, Kurt Warner retains his spot in the starting lineup and faces the Detroit Lions. If he gets benched, Matt Cassel gets his spot.
Running back. Our starters for this week are Julius Jones, who faces the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and Chris "Beanie" Wells, who faces the Lions. Matt Forte is available on the bench as a substitute.
Flex. This week's flex starter is Greg Jennings, whose Green Bay Packers take on the reeling Pittsburgh Steelers. Again, Matt Forte is available to take his spot.
Wide receiver. Our starters are Chad Ochocinco and the aforementioned Austin Collie. Nate Washington may substitute for Ochocinco if he's voted to the bench.
Defense/special teams. The Philadelphia Eagles keep their starting spot and take on the San Francisco 49ers, whose defense can be called off the bench if necessary.
The winner of our kicker poll will get that spot, and Jeremy Shockey remains the tight end.
The lineup poll is now open and will close early Sunday. Please vote. I'll be away from my computer Thursday and Friday, so the next update may not be until Saturday. In the meantime, enjoy the Colts-Jaguars game.
[polldaddy poll=2390270]
Thursday, November 19, 2009
The People's Pro Bowl
At this time of year, the People's Pigskin is not the only football team seeking your help in choosing its lineup. (Hint: the polls are on the right.) The National Football League is soliciting fans' help in picking the players who will be invited to play in the Pro Bowl. The official ballot is here. The winners will be invited to play in Dolphin Stadium (not Landshark Stadium; the NFL has its own beer sponsor) the week before the Super Bowl.
Of course, the fans won't have the final word on the lineups. At least officially, the fans, players and coaches get an equal say in who goes to the Pro Bowl. But that doesn't mean fans can't put a little thought into their votes.
One of the consistent knocks against pro football's all-star game is that reputations count more than results -- a player who gets more TV interviews and films more commercials (or one who simply has been going to the Pro Bowl since the "Seinfeld" finale) will be chosen over a player who actually made the mistake of having a better season. But you, the Internet, have the power to overcome that, and you don't have to watch 40 hours of game film to do it.
Here's where fantasy football comes in. There are few better ways to compare one player to another heads-up without the bias of team logos or Nielsen ratings. This year, instead of simply voting for your favorite team's players or the first players that pop into your head, I would encourage you to vote for the players who are putting up the best fantasy numbers this year. If you do that, here's how your Pro Bowl ballot might look.
OFFENSE
Quarterback (3 from each conference). If you use ESPN fantasy points as your guide, your NFC passers would be Aaron Rodgers (185), Drew Brees (159) and Brett Favre (147, just 1 point above Tony Romo). Your AFC picks would be Peyton Manning (178), Tom Brady (176) and Matt Schaub (155).
Running back (3). Again, using ESPN points, your NFC backs would be Adrian Peterson (163), Michael Turner (138) and DeAngelo Williams (137). Your AFC picks: Chris Johnson (181), Maurice Jones-Drew (169) and Ray Rice (142).
Wide receiver (4). From the NFC: Larry Fitzgerald (115), Miles Austin (104), DeSean Jackson (103) and Roddy White (99). From the AFC: Reggie Wayne (130), Randy Moss (128), Vincent Jackson (112) and Andre Johnson (102).
Tight end (2). From the NFC: Vernon Davis (89) and Brent Celek (78). Yes, that means saying no to a certain PETA fan. From the AFC: Dallas Clark (90) and Antonio Gates (74 -- he's behind Owen Daniels but isn't on injured reserve).
Fullback (1). Here you can vote for the fullback with the most fantasy points or the fullback who helped his fellow running back get to the top of the fantasy heap. In that case, you would pick Minnesota's Naufahu Tahi for the NFC and Tennessee's Ahmard Hall for the AFC. (And if you haven't heard of either one until now, you're welcome.)
Offensive line (2 centers, 3 tackles, 3 guards). Here's where things get tricky. Most fantasy formats don't have scores for individual linemen. Your options: vote for the lines that got their running backs to the top, vote for the lines that got their quarterbacks to the top, or register for a site like Trench Fantasy that actually tracks blocking stats. For example, in the first half of the season, Trench Fantasy's top-scoring lines were the New England Patriots, the New Orleans Saints, the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Indianapolis Colts.
DEFENSE
If you play in a league that treats defense/special teams as a single entity (as most leagues do), you can simply vote for the players on the top-scoring defense/special teams. In ESPN's case, that would be the Saints, Eagles and Vikings on the NFC side and the Ravens, Broncos and Bengals on the AFC side. However, you can make more precise votes if you have access to IDP (individual defensive player) stats. These numbers come courtesy of FFToday.
Defensive end (3). NFC: Jared Allen (98), Andre Carter (80) and Julius Peppers (76.5). AFC: Robert Mathis (76), Aaron Schobel (65) and Dwight Freeney (59).
Defensive tackle (3). NFC: Kevin Williams (55.5), Jonathan Babineaux (48) and Albert Haynesworth (42). AFC: Marcus Stroud (52), Tommy Kelly (40) and Shaun Rogers (32.5).
Outside linebacker (3). NFC: Lance Briggs (74.5), Chad Greenway (74) and Mike Peterson (74). AFC: James Harrison (97.5), Brian Cushing (94) and Elvis Dumervil (85.5).
Inside linebacker (2). NFC: Patrick Willis (111.5) and Curtis Lofton (86.5). AFC: David Harris (85.5) and D.J. Williams (85.5).
Cornerback (3). NFC: Charles Woodson (92.5), Tracy Porter (75.5) and Terence Newman (74.5). AFC: Leon Hall (80.5), Johnathan Joseph (72) and Chris Johnson (68).
Strong safety (1). NFC: Roman Harper (73.5). AFC: Tyvon Branch (71.5).
Free safety (1). NFC: Darren Sharper (97). AFC: Antoine Bethea (92).
SPECIAL TEAMS
Kicker (1). Going back to ESPN stats, you get David Akers (90) for the NFC and Stephen Gostkowski (84) for the AFC.
Kick returner (1). If you can find a fantasy league that credits receivers with return points, you get votes for Percy Harvin (only 889 yards, but 2 touchdowns to put him past Danny Amendola) for the NFC and Joshua Cribbs (1,236 yards, 2 touchdowns) for the AFC.
Punter (1). Here you can simply go with the NFL leaders: Andy Lee (2,665 yards) for the NFC and Shane Lechler (2,938 yards) for the AFC.
Special team player (1). OK, there are some areas where fantasy football can't help you. Pick your personal favorite.
You'll notice that this list is missing some famous names -- players who have spent so much time in Honolulu that they should probably be registered to vote there. But when you make your Pro Bowl picks according to fantasy stats, you realize something: Reputation is not a fantasy stat.
We'll be back tomorrow with the Landshark Maniacs predictions.
Of course, the fans won't have the final word on the lineups. At least officially, the fans, players and coaches get an equal say in who goes to the Pro Bowl. But that doesn't mean fans can't put a little thought into their votes.
One of the consistent knocks against pro football's all-star game is that reputations count more than results -- a player who gets more TV interviews and films more commercials (or one who simply has been going to the Pro Bowl since the "Seinfeld" finale) will be chosen over a player who actually made the mistake of having a better season. But you, the Internet, have the power to overcome that, and you don't have to watch 40 hours of game film to do it.
Here's where fantasy football comes in. There are few better ways to compare one player to another heads-up without the bias of team logos or Nielsen ratings. This year, instead of simply voting for your favorite team's players or the first players that pop into your head, I would encourage you to vote for the players who are putting up the best fantasy numbers this year. If you do that, here's how your Pro Bowl ballot might look.
OFFENSE
Quarterback (3 from each conference). If you use ESPN fantasy points as your guide, your NFC passers would be Aaron Rodgers (185), Drew Brees (159) and Brett Favre (147, just 1 point above Tony Romo). Your AFC picks would be Peyton Manning (178), Tom Brady (176) and Matt Schaub (155).
Running back (3). Again, using ESPN points, your NFC backs would be Adrian Peterson (163), Michael Turner (138) and DeAngelo Williams (137). Your AFC picks: Chris Johnson (181), Maurice Jones-Drew (169) and Ray Rice (142).
Wide receiver (4). From the NFC: Larry Fitzgerald (115), Miles Austin (104), DeSean Jackson (103) and Roddy White (99). From the AFC: Reggie Wayne (130), Randy Moss (128), Vincent Jackson (112) and Andre Johnson (102).
Tight end (2). From the NFC: Vernon Davis (89) and Brent Celek (78). Yes, that means saying no to a certain PETA fan. From the AFC: Dallas Clark (90) and Antonio Gates (74 -- he's behind Owen Daniels but isn't on injured reserve).
Fullback (1). Here you can vote for the fullback with the most fantasy points or the fullback who helped his fellow running back get to the top of the fantasy heap. In that case, you would pick Minnesota's Naufahu Tahi for the NFC and Tennessee's Ahmard Hall for the AFC. (And if you haven't heard of either one until now, you're welcome.)
Offensive line (2 centers, 3 tackles, 3 guards). Here's where things get tricky. Most fantasy formats don't have scores for individual linemen. Your options: vote for the lines that got their running backs to the top, vote for the lines that got their quarterbacks to the top, or register for a site like Trench Fantasy that actually tracks blocking stats. For example, in the first half of the season, Trench Fantasy's top-scoring lines were the New England Patriots, the New Orleans Saints, the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Indianapolis Colts.
DEFENSE
If you play in a league that treats defense/special teams as a single entity (as most leagues do), you can simply vote for the players on the top-scoring defense/special teams. In ESPN's case, that would be the Saints, Eagles and Vikings on the NFC side and the Ravens, Broncos and Bengals on the AFC side. However, you can make more precise votes if you have access to IDP (individual defensive player) stats. These numbers come courtesy of FFToday.
Defensive end (3). NFC: Jared Allen (98), Andre Carter (80) and Julius Peppers (76.5). AFC: Robert Mathis (76), Aaron Schobel (65) and Dwight Freeney (59).
Defensive tackle (3). NFC: Kevin Williams (55.5), Jonathan Babineaux (48) and Albert Haynesworth (42). AFC: Marcus Stroud (52), Tommy Kelly (40) and Shaun Rogers (32.5).
Outside linebacker (3). NFC: Lance Briggs (74.5), Chad Greenway (74) and Mike Peterson (74). AFC: James Harrison (97.5), Brian Cushing (94) and Elvis Dumervil (85.5).
Inside linebacker (2). NFC: Patrick Willis (111.5) and Curtis Lofton (86.5). AFC: David Harris (85.5) and D.J. Williams (85.5).
Cornerback (3). NFC: Charles Woodson (92.5), Tracy Porter (75.5) and Terence Newman (74.5). AFC: Leon Hall (80.5), Johnathan Joseph (72) and Chris Johnson (68).
Strong safety (1). NFC: Roman Harper (73.5). AFC: Tyvon Branch (71.5).
Free safety (1). NFC: Darren Sharper (97). AFC: Antoine Bethea (92).
SPECIAL TEAMS
Kicker (1). Going back to ESPN stats, you get David Akers (90) for the NFC and Stephen Gostkowski (84) for the AFC.
Kick returner (1). If you can find a fantasy league that credits receivers with return points, you get votes for Percy Harvin (only 889 yards, but 2 touchdowns to put him past Danny Amendola) for the NFC and Joshua Cribbs (1,236 yards, 2 touchdowns) for the AFC.
Punter (1). Here you can simply go with the NFL leaders: Andy Lee (2,665 yards) for the NFC and Shane Lechler (2,938 yards) for the AFC.
Special team player (1). OK, there are some areas where fantasy football can't help you. Pick your personal favorite.
You'll notice that this list is missing some famous names -- players who have spent so much time in Honolulu that they should probably be registered to vote there. But when you make your Pro Bowl picks according to fantasy stats, you realize something: Reputation is not a fantasy stat.
We'll be back tomorrow with the Landshark Maniacs predictions.
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Pick the People's Lineup - Week 11
The People's Pigskin doesn't have any players in Thursday night's game between the Miami Dolphins and the Carolina Panthers. However, this team does need to get on a winning streak in a hurry, so we'll need your help.
This week's opponent is the Houston Wreckin' Crew. Here is how our lineup looks now.
Quarterback. The one and only Kurt Warner is starting. He's now in the top 10 among fantasy quarterbacks, and he gets the St. Louis Rams this week. If that matchup isn't to your liking, you can vote to start Matt Cassel instead.
Running back. Last week's starters are, at least for now, this week's starters. Matt Forte gets the Philadelphia Eagles this week. Chris "Beanie" Wells gets the Rams. If you wish to bench one of these players, we can start Jamal Lewis, who gets to play the Detroit Lions at least once more before he hangs up his cleats.
Flex. For now we have Greg Jennings in this spot. If he plays, he gets the San Francisco 49ers this week. The Green Bay Packers have said he'll miss practice time with his knee injury, but so far there's no indication that he'll miss playing time. If you think Jennings should sit, Lewis can come off our bench.
Wide receiver. Yes, it's the old Bengals duo of Chad Ochocinco and T.J. Houshmandzadeh. Ochocinco gets to face the Oakland Raiders this week, and he might be doing this now that both the Baltimore Ravens and the Pittsburgh Steelers are in his rear-view mirror. Houshmandzadeh gets the Minnesota Vikings. If you wish to bench one of these players, Nate Washington (whose Tennessee Titans play Monday night) is ready to play.
No changes at tight end (Jeremy Shockey) or kicker (Nick Folk). But we have to discuss one more position.
Defense/special teams. We've started the Philadelphia Eagles every week except their bye week. They are in the starting lineup now, and they get the Chicago Bears on Sunday night. Facing the Bears with Jay Cutler at the helm can be feast or famine for a fantasy football player, and the Eagles haven't exactly covered themselves in glory in games shown on NBC.
This week, and for the rest of the season, the defense/special teams will appear in our lineup poll. If you want to sit the Eagles, we can call on the 49ers, who face the Packers.
The poll is up. Please vote. This fantasy football team is counting on you.
By the way, you may remember that the folks at Fantasy Sports Shack invited me to play their Name Your Sleepers game. The result: the People's Pigskin defeated the Shack. Thanks to the Shack for inviting me to play, and yes, I'll remember next time to follow the rules, or they'll do this to me.
We'll be back tomorrow with some thoughts about everyone's favorite game of all-stars.
This week's opponent is the Houston Wreckin' Crew. Here is how our lineup looks now.
Quarterback. The one and only Kurt Warner is starting. He's now in the top 10 among fantasy quarterbacks, and he gets the St. Louis Rams this week. If that matchup isn't to your liking, you can vote to start Matt Cassel instead.
Running back. Last week's starters are, at least for now, this week's starters. Matt Forte gets the Philadelphia Eagles this week. Chris "Beanie" Wells gets the Rams. If you wish to bench one of these players, we can start Jamal Lewis, who gets to play the Detroit Lions at least once more before he hangs up his cleats.
Flex. For now we have Greg Jennings in this spot. If he plays, he gets the San Francisco 49ers this week. The Green Bay Packers have said he'll miss practice time with his knee injury, but so far there's no indication that he'll miss playing time. If you think Jennings should sit, Lewis can come off our bench.
Wide receiver. Yes, it's the old Bengals duo of Chad Ochocinco and T.J. Houshmandzadeh. Ochocinco gets to face the Oakland Raiders this week, and he might be doing this now that both the Baltimore Ravens and the Pittsburgh Steelers are in his rear-view mirror. Houshmandzadeh gets the Minnesota Vikings. If you wish to bench one of these players, Nate Washington (whose Tennessee Titans play Monday night) is ready to play.
No changes at tight end (Jeremy Shockey) or kicker (Nick Folk). But we have to discuss one more position.
Defense/special teams. We've started the Philadelphia Eagles every week except their bye week. They are in the starting lineup now, and they get the Chicago Bears on Sunday night. Facing the Bears with Jay Cutler at the helm can be feast or famine for a fantasy football player, and the Eagles haven't exactly covered themselves in glory in games shown on NBC.
This week, and for the rest of the season, the defense/special teams will appear in our lineup poll. If you want to sit the Eagles, we can call on the 49ers, who face the Packers.
The poll is up. Please vote. This fantasy football team is counting on you.
By the way, you may remember that the folks at Fantasy Sports Shack invited me to play their Name Your Sleepers game. The result: the People's Pigskin defeated the Shack. Thanks to the Shack for inviting me to play, and yes, I'll remember next time to follow the rules, or they'll do this to me.
We'll be back tomorrow with some thoughts about everyone's favorite game of all-stars.
Saturday, November 7, 2009
Weekend Reading
The polls on the right side of this page will close Sunday morning. While you consider what to do with our lineup and the question about your own fantasy football team, here are some links to visit in between your college games.
Not exactly a fan favorite, is he? The Kansas City Chiefs were having a rough season even before Larry Johnson decided to make a fool of himself. Now some fans have had enough of LJ. They've started a petition asking the Chiefs not to let him get the 75 rushing yards he needs to supplant Priest Holmes as Kansas City's all-time leader. How awkward would it be to have him on your fantasy team and learn that his own team's fans don't want him to put up 75 yards. Of course, with the way he's been producing lately, that could be a moot point.
What do you think you are, a quarterback? There were questions for the Jacksonville Jaguars after Maurice Jones-Drew got only 8 carries (and 177 yards) last week against the Tennessee Titans. Now the Jaguars are saying the fault lies not with the coaches, but with David Garrard, who had been audibling out of run plays and into passing plays. Jack Del Rio says he told his quarterback "Look, just hand it to him and let him run the ball."
If you have Jones-Drew on your fantasy team, I suppose this is good news. Of course, if you have Garrard, being told he can't call a pass play if he's sees an opportunity for one at the line is not very good news. Whether this is good news for the few remaining Jaguars fans remains to be seen.
Need a trophy for your league? You could go to your local trophy shop or to eBay, but now there's another alternative: the Arena Football League, which is selling pretty much everything it has left. Maybe you and your buddies can compete for the right to keep the Arena Bowl trophy in your living room for the next 12 months.
Down with the Drew Brees-loving capitalist horde! In the never-ending quest to provide you with alternative opinions on the game we love, I present a thought from a fellow Wordpress blogger, the Langston Escape Plan. The post's title: "Why the Third World Hates Us: Fantasy Football." The premise: People who spend their day scrounging up enough food to survive and protecting themselves from rampaging thugs don't have the time or resources to worry about whether the Steelers defense can stop the Denver Broncos.
"Imagine, if you will, that you are a fantasy football fan trying to explain to someone from the slums of India, the streets of oppressed Pyongyang or just about anywhere in Somalia why you spend any amount of time on it. What would you say? Because your bros do it? Because you can win even more disposable income? Because it’s fun?"
I imagine the same thing could be said about people who worry about things like Jennifer Aniston's love life, but the point is an interesting one, nonetheless.
Anyway, we'll be back tomorrow with poll results. Until then, enjoy the games.
Not exactly a fan favorite, is he? The Kansas City Chiefs were having a rough season even before Larry Johnson decided to make a fool of himself. Now some fans have had enough of LJ. They've started a petition asking the Chiefs not to let him get the 75 rushing yards he needs to supplant Priest Holmes as Kansas City's all-time leader. How awkward would it be to have him on your fantasy team and learn that his own team's fans don't want him to put up 75 yards. Of course, with the way he's been producing lately, that could be a moot point.
What do you think you are, a quarterback? There were questions for the Jacksonville Jaguars after Maurice Jones-Drew got only 8 carries (and 177 yards) last week against the Tennessee Titans. Now the Jaguars are saying the fault lies not with the coaches, but with David Garrard, who had been audibling out of run plays and into passing plays. Jack Del Rio says he told his quarterback "Look, just hand it to him and let him run the ball."
If you have Jones-Drew on your fantasy team, I suppose this is good news. Of course, if you have Garrard, being told he can't call a pass play if he's sees an opportunity for one at the line is not very good news. Whether this is good news for the few remaining Jaguars fans remains to be seen.
Need a trophy for your league? You could go to your local trophy shop or to eBay, but now there's another alternative: the Arena Football League, which is selling pretty much everything it has left. Maybe you and your buddies can compete for the right to keep the Arena Bowl trophy in your living room for the next 12 months.
Down with the Drew Brees-loving capitalist horde! In the never-ending quest to provide you with alternative opinions on the game we love, I present a thought from a fellow Wordpress blogger, the Langston Escape Plan. The post's title: "Why the Third World Hates Us: Fantasy Football." The premise: People who spend their day scrounging up enough food to survive and protecting themselves from rampaging thugs don't have the time or resources to worry about whether the Steelers defense can stop the Denver Broncos.
"Imagine, if you will, that you are a fantasy football fan trying to explain to someone from the slums of India, the streets of oppressed Pyongyang or just about anywhere in Somalia why you spend any amount of time on it. What would you say? Because your bros do it? Because you can win even more disposable income? Because it’s fun?"
I imagine the same thing could be said about people who worry about things like Jennifer Aniston's love life, but the point is an interesting one, nonetheless.
Anyway, we'll be back tomorrow with poll results. Until then, enjoy the games.
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Behind the Week 8 Loss
No two ways about it -- this one hurt.
Despite the best efforts of you, the Internet, to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat, the fantasy football gods decided it wasn't enough. The People's Pigskin lost its rematch against Ravens Fan T Sizzle by a score of 74-72. Here's a breakdown of our team's performance.
Kurt Warner, QB. The stats: 27 of 46 passing for 242 yards, 2 touchdowns, 5 interceptions, 1 rush for 8 yards, 1 fumble, and 5 fantasy points. His Arizona Cardinals suffered a horrible loss to the Carolina Panthers. It felt like a fluke, and we have to hope it was.
Matt Forte, RB. The stats: 26 rushes for 90 yards and 2 touchdowns, 2 receptions for 31 yards, and 24 fantasy points. Now, that's the Matt Forte that was getting such high praise when everyone was having their drafts. It's too bad the Chicago Bears can't play the Cleveland Browns every week.
Steve Slaton, RB. The stats: 1 rush for 1 yard, 2 receptions for 10 yards, 1 fumble, and minus-1 fantasy point. It's one thing if you lose a fantasy player to an injury. It's another thing when your fantasy starter is benched for a fumble while his team rolls to an easy victory.
If Houston Texans coach Gary Kubiak is reading this, let me say something on behalf of fantasy football players everywhere. We know you're in no rush to name a starting running back, and we know you're looking out for your team, not ours. But if you feel compelled to punish a player, we'd prefer it if you fined him or made him run extra laps or forced him to watch Cougar Town or something.
Chris "Beanie" Wells, Flex. The stats: 8 rushes for 47 yards and 4 fantasy points. Wells' fantasy stats will depend on scoring touchdowns, and the Cardinals fell far enough behind to have to throw the rest of the game.
Greg Jennings, WR. The stats: 8 receptions for 88 yards, 1 touchdown, and 14 fantasy points. It wasn't a happy homecoming as far as Green Bay Packers fans were concerned, but Jennings continued to show his value to his team and to fantasy football.
T.J. Houshmandzadeh, WR. The stats: 4 receptions for 24 yards and 2 fantasy points. The Seattle Seahawks looked flat as a whole against the Dallas Cowboys.
Jeremy Shockey, TE. The stats: 5 receptions for 72 yards and 7 fantasy points. Shockey almost led the comeback against the Sizzle, but it ended up falling short.
Nick Folk, K. The stats: 1 for 2 on field goals, 5 for 5 on extra points, and 8 fantasy points. Steady production is the best one can expect from a kicker.
Philadelphia Eagles, D/ST. The stats: 2 interceptions, 1 fumble recovery, 2 sacks, 17 points allowed, and 9 fantasy points. These stats look better when you consider that they were compiled against the New York Giants, a preseason Super Bowl contender.
Bench. Nate Washington put up 8 points, while Jamal Lewis put up 6.
At this point, the People's Pigskin's record is 4-4, and I just have to hope you, the Internet, won't fire me like George Kokinis.
We'll be back tomorrow with a preview of our next matchup. In the meantime, be sure to vote, both in our polls and at your local precincts.
Despite the best efforts of you, the Internet, to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat, the fantasy football gods decided it wasn't enough. The People's Pigskin lost its rematch against Ravens Fan T Sizzle by a score of 74-72. Here's a breakdown of our team's performance.
Kurt Warner, QB. The stats: 27 of 46 passing for 242 yards, 2 touchdowns, 5 interceptions, 1 rush for 8 yards, 1 fumble, and 5 fantasy points. His Arizona Cardinals suffered a horrible loss to the Carolina Panthers. It felt like a fluke, and we have to hope it was.
Matt Forte, RB. The stats: 26 rushes for 90 yards and 2 touchdowns, 2 receptions for 31 yards, and 24 fantasy points. Now, that's the Matt Forte that was getting such high praise when everyone was having their drafts. It's too bad the Chicago Bears can't play the Cleveland Browns every week.
Steve Slaton, RB. The stats: 1 rush for 1 yard, 2 receptions for 10 yards, 1 fumble, and minus-1 fantasy point. It's one thing if you lose a fantasy player to an injury. It's another thing when your fantasy starter is benched for a fumble while his team rolls to an easy victory.
If Houston Texans coach Gary Kubiak is reading this, let me say something on behalf of fantasy football players everywhere. We know you're in no rush to name a starting running back, and we know you're looking out for your team, not ours. But if you feel compelled to punish a player, we'd prefer it if you fined him or made him run extra laps or forced him to watch Cougar Town or something.
Chris "Beanie" Wells, Flex. The stats: 8 rushes for 47 yards and 4 fantasy points. Wells' fantasy stats will depend on scoring touchdowns, and the Cardinals fell far enough behind to have to throw the rest of the game.
Greg Jennings, WR. The stats: 8 receptions for 88 yards, 1 touchdown, and 14 fantasy points. It wasn't a happy homecoming as far as Green Bay Packers fans were concerned, but Jennings continued to show his value to his team and to fantasy football.
T.J. Houshmandzadeh, WR. The stats: 4 receptions for 24 yards and 2 fantasy points. The Seattle Seahawks looked flat as a whole against the Dallas Cowboys.
Jeremy Shockey, TE. The stats: 5 receptions for 72 yards and 7 fantasy points. Shockey almost led the comeback against the Sizzle, but it ended up falling short.
Nick Folk, K. The stats: 1 for 2 on field goals, 5 for 5 on extra points, and 8 fantasy points. Steady production is the best one can expect from a kicker.
Philadelphia Eagles, D/ST. The stats: 2 interceptions, 1 fumble recovery, 2 sacks, 17 points allowed, and 9 fantasy points. These stats look better when you consider that they were compiled against the New York Giants, a preseason Super Bowl contender.
Bench. Nate Washington put up 8 points, while Jamal Lewis put up 6.
At this point, the People's Pigskin's record is 4-4, and I just have to hope you, the Internet, won't fire me like George Kokinis.
We'll be back tomorrow with a preview of our next matchup. In the meantime, be sure to vote, both in our polls and at your local precincts.
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.
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.
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.
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]
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]
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
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]
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]
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
How the People Won (and How We Keep Winning)
Once again, the fantasy football gods made us wait until the very end for a resolution, but once again, you, the Internet emerged victorious.
The People's Pigskin recorded a 54-45 victory over Tinks Revenge, raising our record to 2-1. Here's a breakdown of the results.
Trent Edwards, QB. The stats: 20 of 35 passing for 156 yards, 1 interception, 2 rushes for 13 yards, and 5 fantasy points. The Buffalo Bills have to be disappointed in those stats. His longest completion against the New Orleans Saints was only 18 yards. And none of his completions went to Terrell Owens, who, to his credit, refused to throw anyone under the bus afterward.
Matt Forte, RB. The stats: 21 rushes for 66 yards, 6 catches for 40 yards, and 10 fantasy points. These are not the stats of a first-round fantasy pick, but they are getting better as the season progresses.
Steve Slaton, RB. The stats: 12 rushes for 76 yards, 3 receptions for 37 yards, and 10 fantasy points. Again, not the type of production the Houston Texans would want from their primary running back, though he is clearly being targeted.
Donald Brown, Flex. The stats: 14 rushes for 40 yards, 1 reception for 72 yards, and 11 fantasy points. These numbers were mostly generated late in the game, as the Indianapolis Colts played keepaway with the Arizona Cardinals. Still, that was the highest point total among our starters.
Chad Ochocinco, WR. The stats: 5 receptions, 54 yards, and 5 fantasy points. Our favorite baby kisser also had several drops, but his Cincinnati Bengals did pull out a victory against the Pittsburgh Steelers and are an early contender for Most Improved Team.
Brandon Stokley, WR. The stats: 0 receptions, 0 yards, and 0 fantasy points. The Denver Broncos didn't need his help in whipping the Oakland Raiders. Hopefully, things will be different this week against the Dallas Cowboys.
Kellen Winslow, TE. The stats: 3 receptions, 14 yards, and 1 fantasy point. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers looked like a JV squad against the New York Giants on Sunday. It was so bad that the Bucs will start Josh Johnson instead of Byron Leftwich at quarterback this week. We have to hope Johnson knows that a good tight end can be a young quarterback's best friend.
Nick Folk, K. The stats: 2 for 3 on field goals, 1 PAT, and 6 fantasy points. I have to admit I got nervous when Folk missed his first field goal attempt of the night, since our team was docked a point. But Nick was solid the rest of the way and managed to avoid a Mora-style tirade.
Philadelphia Eagles, D/ST. The stats: 1 fumble recovery, 14 points allowed, and 6 fantasy points. The Eagles controlled the Kansas City Chiefs all day long and remain the top-scoring defense in fantasy football.
Bench. Kurt Warner got 13 points, while Greg Jennings got 10, so you Warner fans (or anti-Stokley fans) can go ahead and feel vindicated.
Our defense provides us with our first bye week challenge of the season. The Eagles are off this week (music to the ears of both Donovan McNabb and Andy Reid, I'm sure), so we need another defense. Rather than waiving the top-scoring defense in fantasy football, the plan is to bench the Eagles, waive Rashard Mendenhall (call us when/if your team figures out its running game), and pluck a defense off the waiver wire. Here are the leading candidates.
New Orleans Saints. Believe it or not, this defense racked up 12 fantasy points last week and are sixth in fantasy points this season. They face the New York Jets this week.
San Francisco 49ers. Mike Singletary is clearing putting his stamp on this team, which got 11 fantasy points from its defense last week. They face the St. Louis Rams this week.
Cincinnati Bengals. Yes, Carson Palmer got the headlines, but his defense also played a major role in the Steelers upset, getting 9 fantasy points for their effort. They face the Cleveland Browns this week.
Once again, we have until Thursday morning to get the waiver requests in, so this poll will close Wednesday night. Please vote now.
[polldaddy poll=2054226]
The People's Pigskin recorded a 54-45 victory over Tinks Revenge, raising our record to 2-1. Here's a breakdown of the results.
Trent Edwards, QB. The stats: 20 of 35 passing for 156 yards, 1 interception, 2 rushes for 13 yards, and 5 fantasy points. The Buffalo Bills have to be disappointed in those stats. His longest completion against the New Orleans Saints was only 18 yards. And none of his completions went to Terrell Owens, who, to his credit, refused to throw anyone under the bus afterward.
Matt Forte, RB. The stats: 21 rushes for 66 yards, 6 catches for 40 yards, and 10 fantasy points. These are not the stats of a first-round fantasy pick, but they are getting better as the season progresses.
Steve Slaton, RB. The stats: 12 rushes for 76 yards, 3 receptions for 37 yards, and 10 fantasy points. Again, not the type of production the Houston Texans would want from their primary running back, though he is clearly being targeted.
Donald Brown, Flex. The stats: 14 rushes for 40 yards, 1 reception for 72 yards, and 11 fantasy points. These numbers were mostly generated late in the game, as the Indianapolis Colts played keepaway with the Arizona Cardinals. Still, that was the highest point total among our starters.
Chad Ochocinco, WR. The stats: 5 receptions, 54 yards, and 5 fantasy points. Our favorite baby kisser also had several drops, but his Cincinnati Bengals did pull out a victory against the Pittsburgh Steelers and are an early contender for Most Improved Team.
Brandon Stokley, WR. The stats: 0 receptions, 0 yards, and 0 fantasy points. The Denver Broncos didn't need his help in whipping the Oakland Raiders. Hopefully, things will be different this week against the Dallas Cowboys.
Kellen Winslow, TE. The stats: 3 receptions, 14 yards, and 1 fantasy point. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers looked like a JV squad against the New York Giants on Sunday. It was so bad that the Bucs will start Josh Johnson instead of Byron Leftwich at quarterback this week. We have to hope Johnson knows that a good tight end can be a young quarterback's best friend.
Nick Folk, K. The stats: 2 for 3 on field goals, 1 PAT, and 6 fantasy points. I have to admit I got nervous when Folk missed his first field goal attempt of the night, since our team was docked a point. But Nick was solid the rest of the way and managed to avoid a Mora-style tirade.
Philadelphia Eagles, D/ST. The stats: 1 fumble recovery, 14 points allowed, and 6 fantasy points. The Eagles controlled the Kansas City Chiefs all day long and remain the top-scoring defense in fantasy football.
Bench. Kurt Warner got 13 points, while Greg Jennings got 10, so you Warner fans (or anti-Stokley fans) can go ahead and feel vindicated.
Our defense provides us with our first bye week challenge of the season. The Eagles are off this week (music to the ears of both Donovan McNabb and Andy Reid, I'm sure), so we need another defense. Rather than waiving the top-scoring defense in fantasy football, the plan is to bench the Eagles, waive Rashard Mendenhall (call us when/if your team figures out its running game), and pluck a defense off the waiver wire. Here are the leading candidates.
New Orleans Saints. Believe it or not, this defense racked up 12 fantasy points last week and are sixth in fantasy points this season. They face the New York Jets this week.
San Francisco 49ers. Mike Singletary is clearing putting his stamp on this team, which got 11 fantasy points from its defense last week. They face the St. Louis Rams this week.
Cincinnati Bengals. Yes, Carson Palmer got the headlines, but his defense also played a major role in the Steelers upset, getting 9 fantasy points for their effort. They face the Cleveland Browns this week.
Once again, we have until Thursday morning to get the waiver requests in, so this poll will close Wednesday night. Please vote now.
[polldaddy poll=2054226]
Saturday, September 26, 2009
The People's Choice - Week 3
Once again, you, the Internet, have spoken in our grand fantasy football democracy experiment. We asked what we should do with the lineup, and the majority of you said Trent Edwards should start in Kurt Warner's place. So he shall.
Since Tinks Revenge is playing DeAngelo Williams of the Carolina Panthers and we have Nick Folk of the Dallas Cowboys, this Landshark Maniacs clash won't be settled until Monday night's game between the Panthers and the Cowboys.
As far as the other poll is concerned, it's unanimous: You, the Internet, say betting on NFL games should be legal. Frankly, I'm not surprised, since you are following a fantasy football blog, after all.
We'll be back Sunday (hopefully before game time) with another poll and pregame thoughts.
Since Tinks Revenge is playing DeAngelo Williams of the Carolina Panthers and we have Nick Folk of the Dallas Cowboys, this Landshark Maniacs clash won't be settled until Monday night's game between the Panthers and the Cowboys.
As far as the other poll is concerned, it's unanimous: You, the Internet, say betting on NFL games should be legal. Frankly, I'm not surprised, since you are following a fantasy football blog, after all.
We'll be back Sunday (hopefully before game time) with another poll and pregame thoughts.
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Pick the People's Team - Week 3
Thanks to your votes, the People's Pigskin picked up Brandon Stokley off the waiver wire. Now it's time to set our lineup for this week's game against Tinks Revenge. She brings an imposing lineup, but I think it can be beaten.
Quarterback. Right now our starter is Kurt Warner, and my gut feeling is to stick with him, even though ESPN's "experts" expect him to get fewer points than Trent Edwards.
Running back. OK, last week's switch blew up in our collective faces, so for the moment we have Matt Forte and Steve Slaton back in the starting slots. Waiting in the wings (should you, the Internet, will it) is Rashard Mendenhall.
Flex. Our current lineup features Donald Brown, the rookie from UConn who has earned regular playing time for the Indianapolis Colts. Here's hoping Peyton Manning & Co. don't make a habit of holding the ball for less than 15 minutes. Again, Mendenhall waits on the bench.
Wide receiver. Since we got him, I see no reason not to use Brandon Stokley right away. Also, I'd say Chad Ochocinco deserves another starting spot, even if he did rig that "Lambeau Leap" thing by planting Bengals fans in the end zone. Waiting in the wings is Greg Jennings, who got a grand total of 0 points last week.
Again, no changes at tight end (Kellen Winslow), kicker (Nick Folk, playing Monday night) or defense (Philadelphia Eagles).
Here's the poll for this week's lineup. Feel free to leave a comment if you think we should do something else. And remember to vote in our gambling poll. We'll be back later with predictions for the Landshark Maniacs games.
[polldaddy poll=2034029]
Quarterback. Right now our starter is Kurt Warner, and my gut feeling is to stick with him, even though ESPN's "experts" expect him to get fewer points than Trent Edwards.
Running back. OK, last week's switch blew up in our collective faces, so for the moment we have Matt Forte and Steve Slaton back in the starting slots. Waiting in the wings (should you, the Internet, will it) is Rashard Mendenhall.
Flex. Our current lineup features Donald Brown, the rookie from UConn who has earned regular playing time for the Indianapolis Colts. Here's hoping Peyton Manning & Co. don't make a habit of holding the ball for less than 15 minutes. Again, Mendenhall waits on the bench.
Wide receiver. Since we got him, I see no reason not to use Brandon Stokley right away. Also, I'd say Chad Ochocinco deserves another starting spot, even if he did rig that "Lambeau Leap" thing by planting Bengals fans in the end zone. Waiting in the wings is Greg Jennings, who got a grand total of 0 points last week.
Again, no changes at tight end (Kellen Winslow), kicker (Nick Folk, playing Monday night) or defense (Philadelphia Eagles).
Here's the poll for this week's lineup. Feel free to leave a comment if you think we should do something else. And remember to vote in our gambling poll. We'll be back later with predictions for the Landshark Maniacs games.
[polldaddy poll=2034029]
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
The People Speak on Waivers
Well, I guess I should attach Gus Johnson-narrated videos to every potential waiver wire pick from now on.
You, the Internet, have spoken, and you have asked that the People's Pigskin pick up Brandon Stokley on waivers. So we will drop Josh Morgan to make room for the Broncos reciever. Thanks for voting. We'll be back later with predictions and a poll on how to adjust the lineup for this week's game against Tinks Revenge.
You, the Internet, have spoken, and you have asked that the People's Pigskin pick up Brandon Stokley on waivers. So we will drop Josh Morgan to make room for the Broncos reciever. Thanks for voting. We'll be back later with predictions and a poll on how to adjust the lineup for this week's game against Tinks Revenge.
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