UPDATE and FORMAT CHANGE!!!!!

This is my first post in a week due to the fact that I just got a new job working in the legal field and my time has become a bit more limited. I will be posting more as I figure out how to manage my time a bit more efficiently, which will be very soon. As far as the format change. As I said in a previous post I am now a part of the crew at The Stat Pack. With being a part of that and still keeping up here I have decided to post all my baseball content over at The Stat Pack as well as some of the Football articles that I write here. This Blog is now going to focus solely on Football, but it will expand the content in that area. I have some help coming aboard that will increase the posts and knowledge of the blog. We are going to delve into all College and Pro Football, no matter the team or conference. I will obviously still be posting more about USF, Florida,FSU, and the Bucs than any other team, but we will not focus solely on them. I hope you enjoy the format change and to keep up with my baseball takes, just head over to The Stat Pack.

Week 4 Fantasy RB Report

Arizona Cardinals

RBs: Edgerrin James , Marcel Shipp, J.J. Arrington

Injuries: None

Starter: Edgerrin James

Opinion: Edge had a tough week last week against a great Ravens defense, and it does not get any easier this week with Pittsburgh in town. WIth the QB situation in Arizona up in the air the Cards may rely more on Edge to get them yards, but the Pittsburgh defense has been stout all year. Whisenhunt and Grimm both are former Pitt coaches so they may know how to attack the defense, but Juaron is a great defensive mind and knows how to adjust. Tough match up for Edge this week.

Atlanta Falcons

RBs: Warrick Dunn , Jerious Norwood , Artose Pinner, Jamal Robertson

Injuries:

Starter: Dunn (60%)/Norwood (40%)

Opinion: Dunn is still getting the majority of the carries in this RBBC, but neither one has been a great option at this point. With the Falcons struggling, you may see Norwood get more carries in the future becuase he is the future of that team, but right now its anyone's guess who will get the carries. They have a tough matchup this week against Houston who has yet to give up a hundred yard game despite playing 3 good backs in LJ, Foster/Williams, and Addai. It won't be easy this week for the Falcons or their running backs this week.

Baltimore Ravens

RBs: Willis McGahee , Musa Smith, Mike Anderson, P.J. Daniels

Injuries: None

Starter: Willis McGahee

Vulture: Musa Smith

Opinion: Mcgahee had a good game against the Cards and almost went over a hundred yards for the first time this season. McGahee is getting very involved in the passing game, which is a plus for those you who took him in a PPR. Smith did not factor much in last week so that is good news for Willis owners. He is going up against a bad Browns defense this week, so look for a strong week for Willis

Buffalo Bills

RBs: Marshawn Lynch , Anthony Thomas, Dwayne Wright, Shaud Williams

Injuries:

Starter: Marshawn Lynch

Opinion: Lynch is clearly the man in Buffalo and has shown great potential. Lynch a good game against the Patriots who completely shut down LT the week before. Lynch will find it a bit tougher to run with Edwards at QB, but he is still a good option. This week he plays the jets who were dominated by Ronnie Brown last week. Lynch could have a very nice game this week against a soft Jet defense. The only thing keeping me from saying a great week is that the offense looked bad when edwards came in.

Carolina Panthers

RBs: DeShaun Foster , DeAngelo Williams , Nick Goings

Injuries: None

Starter: DeShaun Foster (50%) / DeAngelo Williams (50%)

Opinion: Foster got the bulk of the carries last week in Atlanta and made the most of it going over a hundred yards on the ground and getting a score. Foster also caught one pass for a score, while Williams was not looked to at all in the passing game. There has been not word yet as to if this was a move towards going more towards one back over the RBBC apporach. The Panthers will be without Delhomme for the game this weeka against the Bucs in a clash for the number 1 spot in the NFC South. The Bucs defense looks to be back on track after not allowing a touchdown last week to STL and stopping the run all together the week before against the Saints.

Chicago Bears

RBs: Cedric Benson , Adrian Peterson , Garrett Wolfe

Injuries: None

Starter: Cedric Benson

Opinion: The Bears have made the move from Rex Grossman to Brian Griese to spark something on offense, but if they dont get a run game going they will still be in a world of hurt. Benson has not looked good at all this year and has been fumbling the ball like he has butter on his fingers. They have a great matchup this week going against Detroit who was dominated on all sides of the ball by an Eagle team that had been struggling on offense.

Cincinnati Bengals

RBs: Rudi Johnson , Kenny Watson, Kenny Irons , Chris Perry

Injuries: Kenny Irons (ACL Out for the Year), Chris Perry (leg, out until at least October 14th), Rudi Johnson (Hamstring, doubtful for 10/1)

Starter: Rudi Johnson

Opinion: Rudi Johnson came out of last weeks game after being ineffective and hurting his hamstring. He is doubtful at the moment and his fill in is Kenny Watson, who actually looked good last week. They have a tough matchup this week with NE on Monday night and Rudi's status is in the air. If you can afford to sit him, I would.

Cleveland Browns

RBs: Jamal Lewis , Jerome Harrison, Jason Wright

Injuries: None

Starter: Jamal Lewis

Opinion: Lewis came back down to earth last week against Oakland. While Oaklands defense is not terrible it is not great either and Lewis should have had more yards. He will be hit or miss all year, more towards miss most times as the Browns offense is terrible. They may be without Kellen Winslow, which will only make things harder this week. They get the Ravens this week, who have dominated much better backs, play Lewis as a last possible resort (going with no back maybe a better option).

Dallas Cowboys

RBs: Julius Jones , Marion Barber III , Tyson Thompson

Injuries: None

Starter: Julius Jones 55% / Marion Barber III 45%

Opinion: The Backs had been splitting time almost evenly until last week when MBIII got double the amount of carries that Jones did and exloded with his chances. MBIII lookes to be the back that will carry this team although the Cowboys have not yet made the announcement. One good thing for JJ owners is that he has not been pulled from drives for MBIII when it has been his turn to run. If you ave MBIII he is a good option this week against a rocky STL defense, but Jones owners should look elsewhere.

Denver Broncos

RBs: Travis Henry , Selvin Young, Mike Bell, Cedric Cobbs

Injuries:

Starter: Travis Henry

Opinion: Henry had a tough week last week against JAX and has another tough week this week against INDY. Henry did finally get his first touchdown as a Bronco last week and Selvin Young only got a few opportunities and fumbled on one of them. Henry remains a solid option although he faces a tough defense.

Detroit Lions

RBs: Tatum Bell , Kevin Jones, TJ Duckett , Brian Calhoun, Aveion Cason

Injuries: Kevin Jones: Foot, TJ Duckett: Ankle

Notes:

Starter: Tatum Bell/Kevin Jones

Opinion: They don't run the football. Last week they were down and barely ran, the week before they played a tough defense and abandoned the run entirely. Bell and Jones look to be splitting the limtied amount of reps with Jones getting goalline carries so far. They play the Bears, who are banged up, but they will look to pass and not run. I would stay away from this backfield if possible.

Green Bay Packers

RBs: Vernand Morency , Brandon Jackson , Ryan Grant, DeShawn Wynn

Injuries: Vernand Morency: Knee

Vulture DeShawn Wynn

Opinion: I thought this was the black and blue division? This is another NFC North team that just seems to have abandoned the run as they can't do it well. Morency is still out as of now and the Pack are looking at a three man RBBC. Ryan Grant was not good at ND so don't expect him to do much now, Jackson seems up and down, and Wynn got in the dog house after he pulled himself out of the game and cost the Pack a time out. Add to the fact that they are playing MIN in MIN and this matchup does not look appetizing to fantasy owners. Go with some one else if you got em.

Houston Texans

RBs: Ahman Green , Ron Dayne, Samkon Gado, Wali Lundy

Injuries: Ahman Green (Knee) Out Week 4

Starter: Ahman Green

Vulture: Ron Dayne

Opinion: Ahman Green has not practiced all week and is most likely out for this nice matchup against Atlanta. Ron Dayne is healthy and will get the start for the Texans with Samkon Gado seeing some third down carries. Atlanta has been a terrible defense this season and Dayne could have a very nice week.

Indianapolis Colts

RBs: Joseph Addai ,Kenton Keith, Kory Chapman

Injuries: None

Starter: Joseph Addai

Opinion: Addai is clearly the man and the Colts are not giving anyone else many touches. Good Matchup against Denver at home.

Jacksonville Jaguars

RBs: Fred Taylor , Maurice Jones-Drew , Greg Jones, LaBrandon Toefield

Injuries: None

Starter: Fred Taylor / Maurice Jones-Drew

Opinion: This has become a bad situation for fantasy owners. No clear cut guy and MJD has not done much with his touches. They have a BYE this week.

Kansas City Chiefs

RBs: Larry Johnson , Michael Bennett, Derrick Ross, Kolby Smith, Priest Holmes

Injuries: Priest Holmes: Neck (PUP)

Starter: Larry Johnson

Opinion: The Chiefs are terrible and Larry Johnson's stats are suffering for it. No one will respect the pass until the Chiefs make them so expect Johnson to have tough sledding in the future. They are going up against SD who has been suspect on the run, but the Chiefs are still bad and Johnson has shown his displeasure. You have to start him becuase he is LJ, right?

Miami Dolphins

RBs: Ronnie Brown , Jesse Chatman , Lorenzo Booker, Reagan Mauia

Injuries:

Starter: Ronnie Brown/Jesse Chatman (?)

Opinion: Brown finally busted out last week at NYJ. Hopefully Cam Cameron saw "what Brown can do for him" and will continue to run the ball and get Brown involved in the pass game as well. They play Oakland this week who has a decent defense, but brown should have another nice week.

Minnesota Vikings

RBs: Chester Taylor , Adrian Peterson , Mewelde Moore, Artose Pinner

Injuries: Chester Taylor: Hip

Starter: Chester Taylor / Adrian Peterson

Opinion: Taylor looks to be back this week and Childress has said that Taylor is the starter if he is healthy, but how can he keep AD off of the field. Peterson has looked great in his time as starter and should overtake Taylor as the "starter". They do have a tough game this week against the Pack and the uncertanty of playing time makes this week a bit of question.

New England Patriots

RBs: Laurence Maroney , Sammy Morris, Kevin Faulk, Justise Hairston

Injuries:

Starter: Laurence Maroney

Opinion: Morney has not put up the numbers that many thought he would, but its more about what the Pats are doing on offense thant maroney himself. The Pats have done a lot through the air and when they get up they have pulled Maroney so he does not get hurt. Maroney is had a good game against the Bills, but was pulled at the goalline for Morris. Fantasy owners are going to get real ticked at Bill real soon. They play Cincy this week so hopefuly he breaks one.

New Orleans Saints

RBs: Deuce McAllister , Reggie Bush , Aaron Stecker

Injuries: Deuce McAllister (Knee -IR)

Starter: Deuce McAllister / Reggie Bush

Opinion: The Saints offense took another blow this week with Deuce going down. While Bush is the starter getting the majority of carries, I don't think he is ready to do so. His best numbers came when Deuce had softened the defense. Expect him to have a rough year. They are on BYE this week.

New York Giants

RBs: Brandon Jacobs , Derrick Ward ,Reuben Droughns, Ahmad Bradshaw

Injuries: Brandon Jacobs: Knee (out 3-5 weeks)

Starter: Derrick Ward

Opinion: With Jacobs hurt, Ward will get the start again. Ward has looked very good in his time at RB and some say that Jacobs may be endanger of losing his job. Expect Ward to continue to get carries even when Jacobs comes back. They have a good matchup this week against a Philly defense that has not been very good.

New York Jets

RBs: Thomas Jones , Leon Washington

Injuries: None

Starter: Thomas Jones

Opinion: Jones finally got to play an average defense and showed he is still a good back. They play the Bills this week who are now without LB Paul Posluzny. They gave up over a hundred yards on the ground to Maroney last week, so expect Jones to have a good game.

Oakland Raiders

RBs: LaMont Jordan , Dominic Rhodes, Justin Fargas, Michael Bush

Injuries: Michael Bush

Notes: Dominic Rhodes has been suspended for the first four weeks.

Starter: LaMont Jordan / Dominic Rhodes

Opinion: Lamont Jordan has looked great so far in the season. Jordan finally looks like the guy that they wanted when they signed him as a free agent. It will be interesting to see what they do when Rhodes comes back from his suspension. They get Miami this week who let TJ go over a hundred and has not looked great on run defense. Expect good things from Jordan again. Next week Rhodes will be back in the mix so u may want to try and sell high.

Philadelphia Eagles

RBs: Brian Westbrook , Correll Buckhalter, Tony Hunt

Injuries: Ryan Moats (ankle) out for the season, Westbrook (Ribs-- Day-to-Day)

Starter: Brian Westbrook

Opinion: The Eagles offense exploded last week and the beneficiary was Westy owners. Westy had a doiminating day, but hurt himself once again and is listed as day-to-day. Westy owners are going to have to deal with this all season becuase the guy just gets hurt, but he is a warrior and will play. They have a nice matchup this week against the Giants and Westy is a must start.

Pittsburgh Steelers

RBs: Willie Parker , Najeh Davenport, Kevan Barlow, Verron Haynes

Injuries: None

Starter: Willie Parker

Opinion: Consistent, thats what FWP has been and will be. He will get you 100 yards pretty much every week. The PITT offense has looked very good so far this year and they have a nice matchup with Arizona this week. Expect FWP to get his 100 and maybe a TD or 2.

San Diego Chargers

RBs: LaDainian Tomlinson , Michael Turner, Darren Sproles

Injuries: None

Starter: LaDainian Tomlinson

Opinion: LT has had a tough start to the season as has the whole Charger team. They do play KC this week who have been decent on defense. The Chargers will come out fired up at home to try and show that they are back. I expect LT to turn it around like the number 1 back he truly is.

San Francisco 49ers

RBs: Frank Gore , Maurice Hicks, Michael Robinson, Thomas Clayton

Injuries:

Starter: Frank Gore

Opinion: Gore had a rough week last week against a very good Pit defense. The Niners offense will need to turn it around this week against a SEA defense that has been pretty good so far this year. SEA shut down Rudi Johnson last week, but that was at home where the have a huge homefield advantage. Gore should have a nice week this week.

Seattle Seahawks

RBs: Shaun Alexander , Maurice Morris, Alvin Pearman

Injuries: Alexander playing with a cast on his hand

Starter: Shaun Alexander

Opinion: SA actually had a tough time finding room to run last week against a bad CINCY defense. Chalk it up to every team has there day in my opinion. SA is still a solid option and with the way Hasselbeck is picking a part defense it will only get better for SA. He has a great matchup this week with a SF defense that has been run on all year.

St. Louis Rams

RBs: Steven Jackson , Brian Leonard , Antonio Pittman, Travis Minor

Injuries: Steven Jackson (Groin-- Out this week)

Starter: Steven Jackson

Opinion: SJax finally had a good week and now he has been lost for at least this week if not longer due to a groin pull. Brian Leonard will get the start against dallas, but expect to see Travis Minor in on some plays as well. Leonard was a RB at Rutgers before moving to FB and could surprise some people. Dallas has been run on this year so Leonard may be a good play.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

RBs: Carnell Williams , Michael Pittman, Earnest Graham, Kenneth Darby

Injuries: Carnell Williams: Bruised Ribs (Questionable)

Starter: Carnell Williams

Opinion: Williams had a decent game against the Rams going until he was hit again on his ribs and promptly put the ball on the ground. Jon Gruden pulled him and Michael Clayton for fumbling and inserted Earnest Graham who ran for 75 yards on 8 carries and scored 2 TDS. Gruden has said that Williams is the starter, but expect it to be more of a RBBC with Graham, Pittman, and Williams all getting touches. If Caddy puts the ball on the ground again he will get pulled. They play Carolina and the game plan is to pass so this is not a good matchup this week.

Tennessee Titans

RBs: LenDale White , Chris Brown , Chris Henry

Injuries:

Starter: LenDale White

Opinion: Since the first game White has got the majority of the carries and has looked good. It looks as if White may end up being the starter after all. They have a BYE this week.

Washington Redskins

RBs: Clinton Portis , Ladell Betts , Rock Cartwright, Derrick Blaylock

Injuries: Clinton Portis (knee tendinitis)

Starter: Clinton Portis

Opinion: Portis looked great last week and there were complaints that Betts was in the game at the end of the game from fans and media. expect Portis to continue getting the majority of the workload and having good games. They have a BYE this week

Week 3 Fantasy RB Report

Arizona Cardinals
RBs: Edgerrin James , Marcel Shipp, J.J. Arrington
Injuries: None
Notes:
Starter: Edgerrin James
Opinion: Edge has been outstanding so far on the season and it doesn't look like he plans on stopping anytime soon. The new coaching staff is dedicated to running the football and Edge has exceled running it for them. He is running with a fullback blocking for him for the first time and he seems to enjoy it. He has a very tough matchup this week though, going up against the Baltimore Ravens.

Atlanta Falcons
RBs: Warrick Dunn , Jerious Norwood , Artose Pinner, Jamal Robertson
Injuries:
Notes:
Starter: Dunn (60%)/Norwood (40%)
Vulture:
Opinion: The Falcons offense has been terrible and the running backs are a part of it. Dunn has not done much this season averaging only 50 yards a game. Dunn has said that he still is not 100% recovered from his offseason surgery, I would keep an eye on this if I owned Dunn. Norwood saw his productivity increase last week, but had a worse week. Norwood is averaging more yards per carry and has more explosion so he may start to get more touches.

Baltimore Ravens
RBs: Willis McGahee , Musa Smith, Mike Anderson
Injuries: None
Notes:
Starter: Willis McGahee
Vulture: Musa Smith
Opinion: McGahee has looked good in both games, but has lost some touches around the goalline to Musa Smith. He should get better as the year goes on, but he does have some tough matchups.

Buffalo Bills
RBs: Marshawn Lynch , Anthony Thomas, Dwayne Wright
Injuries:
Notes:
Starter: Marshawn Lynch
Opinion: Lynched followed up his good first game with a bad outing. He did run up against a great defense at home when they played Pittsburgh, but the Bills are still bad and defense will dare them to throw so he may find running a little tough unless they open it up. Thomas has been a nonfactor in the running game only garnering 3 carries. The Bills have a tough matucp against NE this week and their great run defense.

Carolina Panthers
RBs: DeShaun Foster , DeAngelo Williams , Nick Goings
Injuries: None
Notes:
Starter: DeShaun Foster (50%) / DeAngelo Williams (50%)
Opinion: This is a true RBBC with both guys getting 50% of the carries so far this season. Foster has a little better number of yards per carry, but he also has a turnover that Williams does not. This will probably stay this way all season unless one of them gets hurt.

Chicago Bears
RBs: Cedric Benson , Adrian Peterson , Garrett Wolfe
Injuries: None
Notes:
Starter: Cedric Benson
Opinion: Benson had a much easier time running the ball in the second game of the season and put up some great numbers. The Bears do want run the ball a lot so he will get chances, but KC is not a great defense so time will tell what he does. There have been whispers that the Bears are looking at Corey Dillon

Cincinnati Bengals
RBs: Rudi Johnson , Kenny Watson, Kenny Irons , Chris Perry
Injuries: Kenny Irons (ACL Out for the Year), Chris Perry (leg, out until at least October 14th)Notes:
Starter: Rudi Johnson
Opinion: Rudi is Mr. Consistent getting his 12 TDs every year and he should be back up to his normal 1400 yards as well. Look for Kenny Irons to be the primary backup and to spell Rudi when he needs a break. Could get a look as the 3rd down back as well as he has great explosiveness which is something Rudi lacks. Rudi is still a quality #1 RB

Cleveland Browns
RBs: Jamal Lewis , Jerome Harrison, Jason Wright
Injuries: None
Notes:
Starter: Jamal Lewis
Opinion: Jamal Lewis exploded last week for over 200 yards. With that being said, Cincys defense is terrible and no one really belives that was the real browns offense. The fact is they still have a bad line and will be down in most games. Lewis is not a great option

Dallas Cowboys
RBs: Julius Jones , Marion Barber III , Tyson Thompson
Injuries: None
Notes:
Starter: Julius Jones 55% / Marion Barber III 45%
Opinion: This has been a real RBBC with both seeing about the same amount of carries. Barber has looked much better than Jones though and has been getting the majority of the 20 and in carries. Barber is also the main 3rd down back. Expect Barber to keep getting more touches as the year goes on. They have a horrible matchup this week against the Bears though

Denver Broncos
RBs: Travis Henry , Selvin Young, Mike Bell
Injuries:
Notes:
Starter: Travis Henry
Opinion: Henry is a great back for this system as he is an excellent one cut and go type of runner which is what Denver needs in the backfield. He's the most talented RB they've had since Portis left and should be in for a great year (barring injury of course). Henry has looked great on the year and Shannahan has shown that Henry is the guy

Detroit Lions
RBs: Tatum Bell , Kevin Jones, TJ Duckett , Brian Calhoun, Aveion Cason
Injuries: Kevin Jones: Foot, TJ Duckett: Ankle
Notes:
Starter: Tatum Bell
Opinion: I believe Jones is the starter if he can come back healthy, but until he does the door is wide open for Tatum Bell to take over as the starter and get most of the action for the Lions early on in the season. Jones is returning this week and there is talk that he may get 20 carries. Bell had a good game against the Raiders, but the Lions did not try to run the ball against Minnesota. Still expect bell to get some carries.

Green Bay Packers
RBs: Vernand Morency , Brandon Jackson, DeShawn Wynn
Injuries: Vernand Morency: Knee
Notes:
Vulture DeShawn Wynn
Opinion: Brandon Jackson was supposed to take his opportunity to be the starter and run with it, but its DeShawn Wynn who has taken the opportunity. Wynn has looked outstanding in his playing time and the Packers are going to give him more carries this week. Wynn is a talented back and this situation should be kept an eye on

Houston Texans
RBs: Ahman Green , Ron Dayne, Samkon Gado
Injuries: None
Notes:
Starter: Ahman Green
Vulture: Ron Dayne
Opinion: Green is clearly the best back on the roster for the Texans and with the 2nd year in Kubiak's running schemes, the Texans could have that run offense be much improved from last year. Green is a big upgrade from anyone they had last year and could put up Dominick Davis type numbers if he can stay healthy all year

Indianapolis Colts
RBs: Joseph Addai ,Kenton Keith, Kory Chapman
Injuries: None
Notes:
Starter: Joseph Addai
Opinion: Addai is clearly the man and the Colts are not giving anyone else many touches

Jacksonville Jaguars
RBs: Fred Taylor , Maurice Jones-Drew , Greg Jones, LaBrandon Toefield
Injuries: None
Notes:
Starter: Fred Taylor / Maurice Jones-Drew
Opinion: This could be a dreaded 3-way split this year with Fred Taylor, Maurice Jones-Drew, and Greg Jones all getting some opportunities. Jones is back this year after suffering a season ending injury in pre-season of last year and will likely factor in some way this year. As of right now Taylor is still the starter, but expect him and Jones-Drew to see a similar amount of touches

Kansas City Chiefs
RBs: Larry Johnson , Michael Bennett, Derrick Ross, Kolby Smith, Priest Holmes
Injuries: Priest Holmes: Neck (PUP)
Notes:
Starter: Larry Johnson
Opinion: The Chiefs are terrible and Larry Johnson's stats are suffering for it. No one will respect the pass until the Chiefs make them so expect Johnson to have tough sledding in the future

Miami Dolphins
RBs: Ronnie Brown , Jesse Chatman , Lorenzo Booker
Injuries: Chatman Bruised Knee did not practice this week
Notes:
Starter: Ronnie Brown/Jesse Chatman (?)
Opinion: Brown had a great opportunity to futher his hold on the starting role last week against the Cowboys, but failed. Brown has been very disappointing thus far and is losing touches to chatman.

Minnesota Vikings
RBs: Chester Taylor , Adrian Peterson , Mewelde Moore, Artose Pinner
Injuries: Chester Taylor: Hip
Notes:
Starter: Chester Taylor / Adrian Peterson
Opinion: Adrian Peterson has the second most yards from scrimmage in the NFC. Taylor is still a little injured and may miss more time, but even if he is healthy, Peterson is going to get touches. AD has looked dominating on the season and expect him to be the full starter soon

New England Patriots
RBs: Laurence Maroney , Sammy Morris, Kevin Faulk
Injuries:
Notes:
Starter: Laurence Maroney
Opinion: Morney has not put up the numbers that many thought he would, but its more about what the Pats are doing on offense thant maroney himself. The Pats have done a lot through the air and when they get up they have pulled Maroney so he does not get hurt. Maroney is going up against the Bills who ahve given up big yardage thus far and Maroney has always ran well against them.

New Orleans Saints
RBs: Deuce McAllister , Reggie Bush , Aaron Stecker
Injuries:
Notes:
Starter: Deuce McAllister / Reggie Bush
Opinion: Well the Saints have messed with something that works and have given Bush more opportunities to run the ball and it has backfired. They need to get back to having Deuce get some tough runs or it will be a long season for both

New York Giants
RBs: Brandon Jacobs , Derrick Ward ,Reuben Droughns
Injuries: Brandon Jacobs: Knee (out 3-5 weeks)
Notes:
Starter: Brandon Jacobs
Opinion: With Jacobs hurt, Ward will get the start again. He looked ok last week against GB even though they had to rotate 3 QBs. He is still a viable fill in for now

New York Jets
RBs: Thomas Jones , Leon Washington
Injuries: None
Notes:
Starter: Thomas Jones
Opinion: The Jets offense has been terrible, but they have played two great defenses thus far. They still want to run the ball and TJ is a good back so expect him to have better numbers

Oakland Raiders
RBs: LaMont Jordan , Dominic Rhodes, Justin Fargas, Michael Bush
Injuries: Michael Bush, Lamont Jordan (Back- Probable)
Notes: Dominic Rhodes has been suspended for the first four weeks.
Starter: LaMont Jordan / Dominic Rhodes
Opinion: Lamont Jordan has looked great so far in the season. Jordan finally looks like the guy that they wanted when they signed him as a free agent. It will be interesting to see what they do when Rhodes comes back from his suspension

Philadelphia Eagles
RBs: Brian Westbrook , Correll Buckhalter, Tony Hunt
Injuries: Ryan Moats (ankle) out for the season, Westbrook (Knee-- Probable)
Notes:
Starter: Brian Westbrook
Opinion: Westy has been outstanding so far on the season even though the Eagles have been horrid on offense. The Eagles just came out with a report that Westy will have an MRI on his knee so that wil be something to watch very closely.

Pittsburgh Steelers
RBs: Willie Parker , Najeh Davenport, Kevan Barlow
Injuries: None
Notes:
Starter: Willie Parker
Opinion: The Steelers didn't add anyone of consequence in free agency or through the draft at RB and Willie Parker will yet again see a good majority of the carries. They are supposedly implementing more of a spread type offense which is supposed to open up more running room for Parker this year and could take better advantage of his speed

San Diego Chargers
RBs: LaDainian Tomlinson , Michael Turner, Darren Sproles
Injuries: None
Notes:
Starter: LaDainian Tomlinson
Opinion: LT has had a tough start to the season against 2 great run defenses. You know that LT will want to get back on track and get going, expect him to get back on track

San Francisco 49ers
RBs: Frank Gore , Maurice Hicks, Michael Robinson
Injuries:
Notes:
Starter: Frank Gore
Opinion: Gore placed last week on a heavy heart after losing his mom and played very well. Gores injury has not been a concern and he has looked good so far on the season. He does have a tough matchup this week against PITT

Seattle Seahawks
RBs: Shaun Alexander , Maurice Morris, Alvin Pearman
Injuries: None
Notes:
Starter: Shaun Alexander
Opinion: Alexander has looked good so far on the young season. The supposed injury on his hand has been something to watch for, but they play CINCY this week at home. SA has got to be licking his chops after he saw what Lewis did to them

St. Louis Rams
RBs: Steven Jackson , Brian Leonard, Antonio Pittman, Travis Minor
Injuries: None
Notes:
Starter: Steven Jackson
Opinion: Jackson has been the biggest disappointment so far this season. The consensus number 2 draft pick has had two terrible games. The Rams lost Orlando Pace and that will have a bigger effect that they thought in the begining. They play the Bucs this week, who looked great last week on defense

Tampa Bay Buccaneers
RBs: Carnell Williams , Michael Pittman, Earnest Graham, Kenneth Darby
Injuries: Carnell Williams: Bruised Ribs (Probable)
Notes:
Starter: Carnell Williams
Opinion: Williams played last week his bruised ribs and scored two touchdowns. Although he scored two TD's, he didn't get much yardage until late in the game when the Saints were tired. The good thing is that no one else came in when the Bucs were on the goalline, so it looks like their is not vulture here

Tennessee Titans
RBs: LenDale White , Chris Brown , Chris Henry
Injuries: LenDale White (sprained ankle, swollen knee)
Notes:
Starter: LenDale White/Chris Brown
Opinion: This is another situation that is completely up in the air. The Titans would have loved for White to step up and be the man this season being the most talented RB on the roster but his work ethic is lacking and Chris Brown looked great in game one

Washington Redskins
RBs: Clinton Portis , Ladell Betts , Rock Cartwright, Derrick Blaylock
Injuries: Clinton Portis (knee tendinitis)
Notes:
Starter: Clinton Portis
Opinion: has clearly been named the starter and I personally expect a 70/30 type of split this year. Washington ran the ball 490 times last season (about 30 attempts per game) and this year I would expect about 450 of those carries to go to their RBs which puts Portis at about 315 carries and Betts at about 135 carries this season barring an injury of course

Final Fantasy Draft Done, Bring on the Season

So last night was my final draft of the season, which brings the total to 6 on the year. I actually contracted a few this year and next year will most likely lose another one or two and get back to normalcy. This draft was my annual live draft with my Law School buddies. I had to create a draft board with crayons and some Kraft paper because I lost the cords to hook up my computer to my buddies TV. I brought the grub and ran the draft and my buddy supplied the house for us to do it at. I am pretty happy with this team although I did make some mistakes that could cost me. All and all it was a success and looking forward to strong competitive year.

Settings for the league are:
1 point per 25 yds passing, 6 pts per TD, -2 per INT.
1 point per 10 rush/rec, 6 pts per TD, -2 per FUM, 1 PPR
We had a 16 round snake draft in a 12 team league. Are rosters are: 1 QB, 2 RB, 3 WR, 1 TE, 1 K, 1 DEF/ST. I had the 3 pick in the draft, which creates some interesting decisions I would find out.

My Squad with round in parentheses:
QB- Jon Kitna (7), Matt Schaub (12)
RB- Brian Westbrook (1), Clinton Portis (3), Adrian Peterson (5), Julius Jones (8), Tatum Bell (10)
WR- Roy Williams (2), Randy Moss (4), Joey Galloway (6), Greg Jennings (9), Troy Williamson (11), Sydney Rice (13)
TE- Daniel Graham (14)
K- Robbie Gould (15)
DEF- Detroit (16)

I caught a lot of grief for taking Westy at number 3, but in a PPR I think that Westy is the best back at three. It was a bit of a risk pick since he has never played a full season since coming into the NFL, but I think my depth at running back will make up for that. I did not want to take Portis, but it seemed to be too much value in the third round not to. I was surprised to see AD fall to me in the 5th, in fact Chester Taylor actually went two picks before me in the 4th and that owner was looking to take AD on the way back. I think I got great value with Julius Jones and Tatum Bell late in the draft. Jones is seeing more playing time, and although Bell hobbled off the field earlier, he seems to be OK and he is the starter in Detroit.

My wides out are pretty solid I think. Smith, CJ, and Harrison were gone when I took Williams. I am higher on him than most, but I see a big year out of him with the addition of CJ 2 to take some of the double and triple teams away from Williams. Moss is a little risky because he has yet to play a game in the preseason and New England likes to spread the ball around, but he is still running well and I think he has the drive back to win. Galloway was a great value pick there as he has developed a great chemistry with Jeff Garcia and will get the majority of the balls thrown his way. I have no idea what i was thinking drafting 2 Minnesota receivers, I think it had to do with the alcohol I was drinking. I am mad at myself as I should have taken Randy McMichael or Alge Crumpler in the 13 instead of Rice, but I got Graham instead and hope he plays well for the Broncos. I drafted Detroit with my last pick because I plan on playing match ups with my defenses for the season and Detroit starts with Oakland.

All and all I was pretty happy with my team, except for the McMichael/Crumpler foul up. There are some good other teams and some teams I think are just terrible.


Some Picks I did not like:
Peyton (1.8) - I never like taking a QB in round one, especially in a PPR with 12 people
Brees (2.02) - Again a reach when there were good backs still left
Jacobs (2.05) - way to early for him
Holt (2.12) - His injury scares me and I have him farther down due to that
Hasselbeck (3.12) - Bulger still on the board and great wide outs available
C. Taylor (4.08) - I would have taken AD here, but i am glad b/c it allowed me to get AD
Bears D (5.02) - WAY to early for a defense, even the Bears
Shockey (5.08) - Too early for shockey, especially when he only had one wide out
Heat Miller (7.06) - A lot better TE still there
Chad Jackson (9.09) - He may not even make the team, i have not seen him drafted at all
Sydney Rice (13.03) - Yep my own pick. I hated I took him there and didn't get McMichael

Picks I Loved:
Maroney (1.12) and Bush (2.01) - Great value there and good start to his team
Wayne (3.08) - How did he make it this far in a PPR?
Bulger (5.07) - Great spot for him there. He had his 2 backs and 2 Wide outs.
McNabb (5.09) - If he is healthy this is a great pick (Hope he is for Westys sake)
V. Davis (5.11) - I am big on him, and he would not gotten back to him in the 7th round
DJ Hacket (8.09) - I think he will have a big year and he was by far the best WR there
Romo (8.10) - By far best QB left
VY (9.04) - Great value for Young
Roethlisberger (10.05) - Couldn't believe he was still there
C. Brown (15.07) - If he is the starter this was a great steal
A. Crumpler (13.09) - I know Joey is the QB, but come on, how did he fall that far
McMichael (13.10) - I screwed up and should have had him
Jenkins (13.12) - Starting wide out and Harrington will throw the ball

Preseason Tight End Tiers

Much like the Quarterback and Running back tiers, the number one Tight End is no surprise. Antonio Gates emerged as a top TE his second year in the league and has shown no signs of giving up his crown. Gates has been the top fantasy TE for the last three years with Marty ball and now he gets Norv Turner and his high powered offense to work with. Gates should put up double digit touchdowns again and may eclipse 1,000 yards receiving.

After Gates the tight ends really start to clump together and they are some guys who you could nab later that will give you almost the same value as the ones who are rated a little higher. Tight end is always a position that good value can be had later on in the draft if you miss out on Gates and this year is no exception.

Here are the Tiers:


Antonio Gates

Tony Gonzalez
Kellen Winslow Jr
Todd Heap
Vernon Davis
Ben Watson

Chris Cooley
Randy McMichael
Alge Crumpler

LJ Smith
Zach Miller (R)
Eric Johnson
Greg Olsen (R)
Jason Witten
Dallas Clark
Heath Miller
Daniel Graham
Marcus Pollard

David Marten
Owen Daniels
Ben Troupe
Alex Smith
Chris Baker


Now a shock maybe how low Jason Witten is on the list, but I think that Anthony Fasano will start to take away from his opportunities. Fasano will be entering his second year and he is great pass catching tight end. Alge Crumpler is also lower on this list than he has in the past, but I think the loss of Mike Vick will effect Crumpler the most. Joey Harrington will be the Quarterback and he likes to go to wide outs more than Vick did and Vick seemed to look Crumpler first, run second, pass to the wide out third.

Some guys that have moved up are Randy McMichael who was reunited with Scott Linehan in St. Louis. McMichael thrived under Linehan's offense in Miami and I look for him to have a nice rebound year. Eric Johnson went from big time TE in SF to the bench with Vernon Davis being drafted, but he has talent and he is in the New Orleans offense with a lot of good weapons around him. Owen Daniels, Daniel Graham, and Alex Smith could all have better years than some of the guys above them and you could get great value, but there are some question marks around them as of now.

These rankings are from the start of training camp and will progress towards the start of the season so look for more.

Preseason Wide Receiver Tiers

With Training Camp almost here we are continuing with our preseason ranks. Up this week is the wide receivers in this years draft. These rankings are for standard re-draft leagues with no points per reception. These rankings are highly likely to change with training camp and preseason battles going on, but for drafts going on early this is how I see it. I have set the wide outs up into 7 tiers, although tier 2 is really tier 1a.

Steve Smith once again tops the list of wide outs for the season. Smith is explosive and capable to going the distance every time he touches the ball. Included in Tier 1 is Tory Holt and Larry Fitzgerald. These three are clear cut number one wide outs on their teams and have high powered offenses.

Tier 2, which could be dubbed 1a, consists of three studs in great offense, but they have to share the ball. CJ has Housh and Harrison has Wayne. These guys will still put up great numbers, but should be just behind the tier 1 guys.

The next set of wide outs are guys that could move up if they fulfill there potential or they carry more risk than the wide outs in the tiers above. Owens and Moss have questions with off the field issues, but have the talent to play on the field. Roy Williams has showed he is ready to be a top wide out and Housh still has to contend with CJ for the ball. These guys could still solid number 1 wide outs for you.

The next set of wide outs starts with guys who can still be solid number 1 wide outs for fantasy purposes and moves into wide outs that are more suited to be a solid 2 for your team. I have Colston in this tier even though many others have him higher. It concerns me that he will be the number one wide out going up against double teams and the best corners in his second year in the league. He may continue his pace from last year, but i am skeptical to make him my number 1 wide out.

Tier 5 wide outs consist of your solid number 2 wide outs and some guys who have some great upside, but questions remain. Reggie Brown is in a great spot in Philadelphia being the number 1 wide out, but his numbers are going to be correlated to Donovan McNabbs health, which has not been so great recently. Jackson, Moss, and Edwards all have talent, but are in an offense that is challenged or have an unknown at Quarterback.

The rest of the wide outs consist of rookies, third year guys who may break out, or guys who could be your number 3 wide out. Outside of Calvin Johnson there isn't a rookie i see taking before tier 7. There are some second and third year players who are looking to bust out and this may be the year they catch lightning in a bottle.

Tier 1
Steve Smith
Larry Fitzgerald
Tory Holt

Tier 2
Chad Johnson
Marvin Harrison
Reggie Wayne

Tier 3
Randy Moss
Roy Williams
Terrell Owens
T.J. Houshmandzadeh

Tier 4
Anquan Boldin
Donald Driver
Andre Johnson
Javon Walker
Marques Colston
Lee Evans

Tier 5
Hines Ward
Reggie Brown
Plaxico Burress
Laveranues Coles
Darrell Jackson
Deion Branch
Santana Moss
Braylon Edwards
Calvin Johnson
Donte Stallworth

Tier 6
Mark Clayton
Terry Glenn
Chris Chambers
Vincent Jackson
Joey Galloway
Santonio Holmes
D.J. Hackett
Bernard Berrian
Greg Jennings
Jerricho Crotchery
Mike Furrey
Devery Henderson
Kevin Curtis
Jerry Porter
Joe Horn
Isaac Bruce

Tier 7
Troy Williamson
Eddie Kennison
Muhsin Muhammad
Drew Bennett
Matt Jones
Brandon Marshall
Brandon Jones
Derrick Mason
Anthony Gonzalez
Dwayne Bowe
Ronald Curry
Sidney Rice
Marty Booker
Dwayne Jarrett
Ashley Lelie
Robert Meachem
Nate Burleson
Wes Welker
Reggie Willams
Tab Perry
Nate Washington
Ted Ginn, Jr.
Joe Jurevicious
Maurice Stovall
Steve Smith
Michael Jenkins

Preseason Running Back Tiers

Last season it was a debate between 3 running backs on who the number 1 pick should be, but this year it can only be LT2. What is up to debate is the rest of the running backs. Some new top studs have emerged and the youngsters from last year have made their way up the board.

In my mind Steven Jackson has emerged as the second best back available in the draft due to the offense he is in and not carrying all the problems that LJ does. LJ is dealing with a contract issue, a trade discussion, having too many rush attempts, and having Herm Edwards as his coach. Gore jumped up the rankings this year despite losing Norv Turner as the Niners Offensive Coordinator. Although Norv is a great coach, i don't think losing him will be as big of a problem as many believe. The Niners added Darrell Jackson as a number 1 wide out, upgraded the offensive line, and have a healthy Vernon Davis to throw to in the TE position. Injury concerns and age have given me some concerns about Alexander and thus he rounds out the second tier.

The third tier is headlined by your stud PPR running backs in Westy and FWP. Westy is still the running and receiving game for the Eagles and the Steelers offense will still lean on Parker as the year goes on. Addai emerged as a solid running back last year and with the departure of Rhodes he becomes the man in the high powered Colts offense. Rudi Johnson is still the guy to carry the load for the Bengals and will get his TD's. Portis may lose some carries to Betts considering how well Betts ran last year, but if Portis is healthy he will be a stud.

The 4th tier starts with Henry who could be higher if we really new that he would get all the touches in the Denver offense. Shannahan has a way of messing with fantasy owners and who knows if Henry will get the majority of the touches. I like McGahee to have a big year in Baltimore with that great offensive line the Ravens have and the veteran Steve McNair at the helm. MJD would be higher and I like him for the long run, but all indications are that there will be three running backs getting touches in Jacksonville and so he is down the list. Benson finally is the starter in Chicago, but he has injury concerns and has yet to should an entire load if an NFL season.

The 5th tier consists of your top rookie running backs, guys who had bad seasons last year and are looking to rebound, and guys who may be in a bad situation. Lynch is a great back and I like him a lot, but that offensive line in Buffalo is horrid. Tatum Bell has impressed the coaches in Detroit and I expect him to get the starting nod while Kevin Jones is out, but he may go back to RBBC when KJ is healthy so there are some concerns there. I am not sure that Brandon Jacobs can be the man for the Giants and shoulder the entire year so I have him down on my list. Jamal Lewis did not have great seasons the past two with a great Baltimore line, so what will be different in Cleveland with a worse offensive line?

The 6th and 7th tiers are made up of the truly RBBC teams and guys that are back ups or in really bad spots. Right now no one knows who will be the starter in Carolina, but whoever it is will shoot up the board in my opinion. I think the loss of Parcells will effect MBIII as he was Parcells back and Jones is looking to be the number 1 as it is now. I want nothing to do with the Oakland situation or the Tennessee situation. The Green Bay RBBC is intriguing as I think whoever the starter is will have value, but it is hard to determine that at the moment.

LT, SDG

Steven Jackson, STL

Larry Johnson, KAN

Frank Gore, SFO

Shaun Alexander, SEA

Brian Westbrook, PHI
Willie Parker, PIT
Joseph Addai, IND
Reggie Bush, NOR

Rudi Johnson, CIN

Clinton Portis, WAS

Travis Henry, DEN

Laurence Maroney, NEP

Willis McGahee, BAL

Edgerrin James, ARZ

Ronnie Brown, MIA
Maurice Jones-Drew, JAX

Thomas Jones, NYJ

Cedric Benson, CHI

Marshawn Lynch, BUF
Cadillac Williams, TBB

Deuce McAlister, NO
Ahman Green, HOU

Adrian Peterson, MIN

Tatum Bell, DET
Chester Taylor, MIN
Fred Taylor, JAX
Julius Jones, DAL
Brandon Jacobs, NYG
Warrick Dunn, ATL
Jamal Lewis, CLE

Marion Barber III, DAL

DeAngelo Williams, CAR

Deshaun Foster, CAR

Vernand Morency, GBP
Chris Henry, TEN

Jerious Norwood, ATL

Lamont Jordan, OAK

Brandon Jackson, GBP

Lendale White, TEN

Ladell Betts, WAS

Michael Turner, SDG

Mike Bell, DEN

Leon Washington, NYJ

Reuben Droughns, NYG

Lorenzo Booker, MIA

Ron Dayne, DEN

Anthony Thomas, BUF

Adrian Peterson, CHI

Kenny Irons, CIN

Michael Bush, OAK

Jerome Harrison, CLE

DeDe Dorsey, IND

Rookie Wide Outs

Most Rookies don't come in and light it up there first year. Quarterbacks are usually not worth anything the first year, running backs are stuck behind someone or are starting for a horrible team, but wide receivers seem to be the one position that consistently helps their rookie season. This article will look into some of the top wide outs that were drafted this season and where they are being drafted right now. You will notice that outside of CJ2, most of these WR's ADPs are very close to each other. I have ranked them in order of how I would take them.

Calvin Johnson- CJ2 as he is called was the consensus best player in the draft. CJ2 has all the tools a player needs to be successful in the league at wide receiver. CJ2 is fast, has great hands, great vertical leap, physical, and runs great routes. CJ2 also is a great person who works very hard; something that was missing with previous Lions wide outs. The Lions have found a stud to go opposite of the Legend. Look for CJ2 to have an immediate impact as this may have been the best place for CJ2 to go in this draft. The Lions offense is the high flying Mike Martz offense and he has a great WR to learn from in Roy Williams. Kitna is a decent QB and with the addition of Tatum Bell the passing attack may be allowed to open up a bit. Mike Furrey emerged as a nice go to guy as well for the Lions, but he is a true slot receiver, which is where he will play now that CJ2 was drafted. CJ2 will get the looks and will make an impact this season, but you may have to reach to get him. From the mocks I have seen and been involved in CJ2 has an ADP of 57. If you are in a dynasty or keeper league, he is definitely worth the reach, in a redraft i think i would make the reach, but others may not.

Sidney Rice - Rice was overlooked by many because of a not so great Sophomore season after dominating as a Freshman in the SEC. The Gamecock offense was up and down all year though and had many different Quarterbacks throwing to Rice. Also, there was no true number 2 next to Rice or a ground game to take the pressure off of him. Rice was constantly double and triple teamed, yet he still had a decent season. Rice is a tall, fast, physical receiver that has great hands. The Quarterback situation in Minnesota worries me and that’s why I am hesitant in Rice. I am not sure how Tavaris Jackson will shake out and that will have a huge impact on Rice. The Vikes do have a great ground game with Taylor and AD. Also, the Vikes have another speedy wide out that will line up next to him in Troy Williamson. Williamson is also out of USC and has not turned out to what the Vikes have wanted. If the Vikes had a better QB I think Rice would go higher and have a better year. If Jackson pans out as a good QB, than Rice will be a nice sleeper. As of right now Rice's ADP is 121.

Robert Meachem - I felt that Meachem was coming out a year too early from Tennessee, but he got drafted in the first round so I am sure he is not complaining. I think Meachem would have been better served to come back to UT and get his route running a little better. Also, Meachem had a knee injury that he is coming back from now, but he looks to be on time and is looking good. Meachem is a speed reciever who played in a tough conference in college. Meachem lacks the physicality you like in a reciever and he is not about to go over the middle, but he is a good fit in New Orleans. Meachem has a great QB throwing to him and the Saints offense looks great with Colston, Bush, Deuce, and Henderson next to Meachem. Meachem will be almost a 4th WR here with how they use Bush which means he will be up against some less than stellar defender and should be able to make some deep plays. Also, I am not sold on Henderson as a great number 2, so Meachem could develop into a nice 2 to go along side of Colston. Right now his ADP I have seen is 131.

Anthony Gonzalez - I thought the Colts were gonna go defense with there first pick, but Gonzalez made too much sense for them to pass up. Gonzo is a perfect slot guy, especially in this offense. Gonzo will step right in for the departed Brandon Stokely and offer Peyton another great target. Gonzo was the best WR at OSU. Ginn was the most athletic, but Gonzo is far more polished of a route runner and has better hands. Gonzalez could not have ended up in a better situation either. With the emergence of Addai as a viable back that people will have to look out for the passing attack under Peyton will be wide open like it was with Edge in the back field. With defenses looking at Harrison and Wayne, Gonzo could be left open or be one on one with LB, which will be heavy advantage Gonzo. I think he will have big games and than very low games, much like Stokley did. He will be a nice WR for a long time in the league. Right now his ADP I have seen is 131.

Dwayne Bowe - The Chiefs have needed to address the WR position for a long time and finally did so this year. Bowe being there was a surprise to them and I and the Chiefs gladly took him. Bowe's stock took a huge rise after his impressive performance in the Senior Bowl. Bowe is a big, physical, speedy receiver, but has had trouble holding onto that big catch he needs to make. I like Bowe more than others, but he does need to learn how to hold onto the ball. Bowe will be able to learn from Eddie Kennison who is getting up in age, but is still a great veteran presence on him. The Quarterback position is still a question mark in KC with Huard as the present it seems and Croyle as the future. The Chiefs offense will still revolve around LJ and Tony Gonzalez so that means a little less opportunity for Bowe. Bowe's future is bright, but for this year he may have lesser numbers than some of these other wide out rookies. His ADP is 133.

Dwayne Jarrett - Jarrett looked to be the number 3 wide receiver in Carolina when he was drafted, but when the Panthers decided to release Keyshawn he moved into that number 2 slot. Jarrett is a very physical wide receiver with great hands that will go over the middle, but does not have the speed of these other wide outs. Its funny because Jarrett reminds me and most of Keyshawn Johnson, which is who he is being asked to replace. Jarrett does have an attitude problem that is a little bit of a problem for me. If any of you saw him in the Rose Bowl you saw 4 or 5 times he should have or received a taunting penalty. Jarrett reminds me a little of T.O. in that regard and that’s not a good thing. Jarrett will get to learn from Steve Smith, which will help him very much and has a good QB throwing to him in wither Delhomme or Carr. The Panthers need to rebound this year to keep John Fox his job so look for Jarrett to be thrown into the fire and get his feet wet early and often. His ADP so far is 132.

Ted Ginn Jr. - Head Coach Cam Cameron may have said it best when he addressed the Dolphin Fans; "Wait ‘til you see him return punts." That is exactly what Ginn is to me, a glorified punt returner. Ginn is horrible at running routes and does not have the best hands. Also, Ginn is not physical at all and has a hard time getting off of the jam by the defenders. Ginn uses his speed as his weapon and in college was able to run past everyone. Ginn will not be able to do this in the NFL and he is not strong enough to get off the jam and run by anyone. Ginn may turn into a decent wide out in the future if he is trained by Chambers to get off the jam and run better routes, but for the foreseeable future i would stay away. His ADP is 168.

Craig Davis - When the Chargers drafted him, everyone said, "WHO????" Everyone was right. There were much better wide outs on the board and Davis was not worth it. Davis was highly overrated in my opinion and he doesn't do anything great. He is an average wide out in my opinion and I would not look to him anytime soon. I don't have an ADP for him right now because he has not been drafted in any draft I have done.

Peyton Tops Preliminary QB Rankings Again

It is still a long way out from the fantasy football season, but there is no better time than the present to start getting ready and looking forward. Obviously things will change during Training Camps and Preseason, but there is value in looking at rankings now. I have ranked the passers who at the moment have the starting job and have not included any quarterbacks drafted in this NFL Draft. Although you could see a Brady Quinn or JaMarcus Russell get the job, I still probably will not rank them high or want them on my team as the likelihood of either thriving this year are slim to none.

Peyton Manning again topped my list as the top Quarterback available and the only one i can see an argument for taking in the first round of a draft in standards leagues. The second tier is made up three great quarterbacks and i believe that after Tier 2 the Quarterbacks start to become even and no one really sets themselves apart from each other. Anyone below tier 3 i would not be comfortable going into the year as my starter, but could have solid years if they continue to develop or have a bounce back year. In standard 10-12 team leagues you could not pay me to take anyone in the last tier.

The off season is long and dark and we are starting to come out of it now. I was excited to get started on my rankings and i have done a couple mocks so far and i seem to be pretty close to where these guys have gone in the mocks i have done. I hope you enjoy and feel free to lay into me if you think i am wrong.

Tier 1

Peyton Manning

Tier 2

Tom Brady
Drew Brees
Carson Palmer

Tier 3

Mark Bulger
Jon Kitna
Matt Hasselbeck
Donovan McNabb
Tony Romo
Matt Leinart
Philip Rivers
Ben Roethlisberger
Eli Manning
Vince Young
Mike Vick

Tier 4

Jay Cutler
Alex Smith
Jake Delhomme
Matt Schaub
JP Losman
Steve McNair

Tier 5

Brett Favre
Jason Campbell
Jeff Garcia
Chad Pennington
Trent Green
Damon Huard

Tier 6

Tarvaris Jackson
Rex Grossman
Byron Leftwich
Charlie Frye
Andrew Walter

Moves that may effect you

Free Agency not only changes the dynamic of the NFL, but also changes the dynamic of Fantasy Football. Players come and go and there stock rises or falls depending on the situation they go to. Last year Brees went to New Orleans and the stock of the Saints offensive players immediately went up. On the flip side sometimes a player will move teams to get more money, but the situation becomes worse and their fantasy stock drops. Here is a list of some of the key moves that may effect your fantasy draft.

Atlanta

Joey Harrington- At first this seemed like no news at all, but with Vick getting into more trouble and maybe jail time on the horizon Harrington maybe a viable bye week replacement. The Falcons have a new coach in Bobby Petrino who is very offensive minded and Vick honestly does not fit that system. Some of the young receivers are growing, Crumpler is a stud, and the combo of Dunn and Norwood is dynamite in the backfield. Watch the Vick situation closely and watch the wire as Harrington maybe a deep sleeper.

Joe Horn- Horn had one of his worst years last year due to injuries. I for one was very surprised to see him leave New Orleans where he is an icon in that community. Horn will add a much needed go to wide out for Vick if he is there or Harrington if Vick is gone. I say this, but there have been other vets that have gone to Atlanta to help out Vick and it just did not work out because of how Vick plays. I think the move to Atlanta hurts Horns value ultimately if Vick is the QB there. Horn was not going to be a high pick, but if Vick is throwing him the ball i think he takes more of a hit.

Baltimore

Willis McGahee- This may be one of the best moves for a running back in a long time. McGahee is a stud and has been stuck behind a pathetic offensive line and no quarterback since he has come into the NFL. Even though the Bills offense was stagnant last year he still managed to almost get to 1,000 yards. This year McGahee is behind one of the best offensive lines in the league and has a veteran quarterback behind center to take off some of the pressure. Even better, the Ravens style is made to play defense and run the football all day. McGahee's stock is rising and rising fast. Mcgahee is definitely a solid first rounder now.

Cleveland

Fraley, Steinbach, Jamal Lewis- I put the offensive linemen in with the running back here because it is a complete upgrade at that part of the ball for the Browns. After drafting Joe Thomas the Browns have totally re-done that offensive line and made it suitable for the AFC North and running the football to protect Frye or Quinn whoever the starter maybe. The biggest beneficiary is Jamal Lewis who came over from the Ravens after they got a younger stud back in Willis McGahee. Lewis who has been a rebound man for people every year might actually break through this year. The Browns organization has a new commitment to not only the run, but also to winning. This new offensive line will create holes and Lewis will be a nice sleeper back you can pick up for depth.

Denver

Dre Bly- Bly moves to Denver and becomes number 2 corner back to Champ Bailey. No one will want to throw on this secondary with Bailey, Bly, and Lynch back there. Bly will post some great numbers for IDP with teams wanting to throw away from Bailey. The Broncos defense got a huge upgrade not only with Bly, but also with their draft and should be a nice defense for you that most people have forgotten about.

Travis Henry- After trading Tatum Bell for Dre Bly the Broncos needed a running back and addressed it by getting Travis Henry. Henry spent last year with the Titans and put up some pretty nice numbers on an offense that was not that great. Lets face i, anyone can run for a 1,000 yards behind that Denver O-Line. Henry is a good back who had some great years in Buffalo, but was forced out by Willis McGahee. The combo of a good back and that offensive line could produce some nice fantasy numbers for you. The mocks i have seen so far have noticed this and he is going earlier than expected, but you can still get him early second and have a nice second back.

Detroit

Tatum Bell- Bell was supposed to have that beak out year every year and because he was a Bronco he always had the potential to put up huge numbers, but it never happened. The Broncos and Bell have gone their separate ways and for Bell it may be for the better. Kevin Jones is going to be sidelined until at least half the season is over and the Lions coaches really like Bell. Bell is the perfect type of back for the Mike Martz offense and he could see some great numbers this year just as Kevin Jones was putting up last year until he got injured. The Lions coaches have been really happy with his performance so far and expect him to be the starter. He is looking like a late 3rd round really 4th round pick right now.

Houston

Matt Schaub- Had he taken over for Vick in Atlanta he would have much more value than he does in Houston right now. Schaub is a good QB, but has not been able to showcase his talent so he is an unknown. The other problem is that Houston has not been able to keep a QB on his feet since they started there franchise. Schuab is going to go throw growing pains and this year will be a big one for him. The Texans addressed the line in FA and the draft, but it is still going to take time. Schaub will be a nice keeper QB in late rounds and if he does get time to stand up and make throws look out becuase he will make them and be a nice option.

Ahman Green- Ahman Green is getting up in age and although he left the tough NFC North division he is now on a team that has not had an offensive line since inception. Good news is that as i said above the Texans are making strides to improve that line. Also, Head Coach Gary Kubiak is from the Mik Shannahan school of thought and wants to run the ball to set-up the play action pass. Running is key to Kubiak's offense and Green will be a big part of that. If the Texans have any sort of O-Line Green will be a nice option. For now he is about a 4th round pick.

New England

Randy Moss- Moss was not happy in Oakland and did not live up to his hype. Fantasy owners have felt burned by him for a couple of seasons now, but this year is the year he returns to that top form. This is Moss' last and best chance to win a ring and he will not pass it up. Rumors have it that he is running a 4.3 40 for the Patriots in his physical and is ready to get going. Brady will get him the ball and Bellicheck will keep him in check. I think Moss will be a top 5 WR this year when it is all said and done and you will be able to get him as a top 15 WR value. Moss is ready and will have a great year.

Donte Stallworth- He will be the #2 to Moss in New England and that could be a good thing. With double teams and more coverage going to Randy the speedster Stallworth could see a lot of single and busted coverage and make some great plays. New England likes to spread the ball around so he will get his touches and his shots. As long as he stays healthy he will be a nice option.

New York Jets

Thomas Jones- A great spot for both Jones and the Jets. Jones gets out of that dreaded RBBC situation and the jets finally get a running back that can run there system well. Mangini's system is the same that he ran in NE and they always wanted a RB who could run and catch out of the backfeild. In NE they had to combine Faulk with someone else, but in New York they have that person in one back, Thomas Jones. The Jets O-Line is good and will open holes. Mangini is dedicated to running the ball and Jones should put up some nice numbers this year, especially in a PPR league.

Oakland

Dominick Rhodes- Talk about stock dropping. Rhodes went to a team that has no offensive line, another star RB in Jordan, a future stud back in Bush, a brand new HC in Kiffen, and brand new QB in Russell. I hope he is happy with his Super Bowl win because he is going to have little to no value this year. Rhodes is in a RBBC situation still on a worse team with NO offensive line. Right now he is going after the 10th and 11th rounds in the mocks i have seen and he deserves it. Don't waste your time.

San Francisco

Darrell Jackson- A true #1 wide out gets to finally be that #1. I had no clue why the Seahwaks would be so dumb as to trade him within the division, but they will regret it. Alex Smith is an up and coming QB and Gore is going to be a top 5 RB in the league. D-Jack becomes the number 1 target for Smith and he has Davis, Gore, and Lelie to take the pressure off. The Hawks felt they could let him go since they had Branch, but when healthy D-Jack is one of the top WR in the league. Look for him to have a nice year and be undervalued in your drafts.

Tampa Bay

Jeff Garcia- Bucs? Offense? HAHAHA, right? The Bucs finally addressed the offensive line that has been a thorn in there side for years, and got a QB perfectly suited for Grudens offense. The courtship of Garcia by Gruden has been for a couple of years now and Jon finally has his man on the team. Garcia knows the system and has run it before. The Boy Genius has also installed the shotgun and has got more athletes on offense. Don't get caught up in the competition for QB talk, Garcia will be the QB and he will have a nice year. Stovall is a good WR that no one knows about, Galloway still runs well, the Bucs added Jeremy Stevens to compliment Alex Smith at TE and Caddy will have some nice lanes with the new O-Line. Garcia is worth a flier as your second QB.

Impact of Rookie Running Backs

As fantasy football owners we all know the importance of running backs to winning the league. No matter what the scoring system the running back becomes the most important and sought after piece of the team. Every year the fantasy owners are looking for the edge on the competition. Owners salivate at the thought of new talent at the running back position and look for the next great back to carry them to the title. One place I advise fantasy owners not to look early is to rookie running backs. Reggie Bush was drafted number 2 overall in the NFL draft last year and many fantasy owners sought Reggie Bush early in the fantasy drafts also. Bush had a great rookie year in the NFL, but for fantasy owners in most leagues he only scored enough points to make him the 17th best back.

Here are the top rookie backs from 2000-2006 using the following scoring system -- 1pt per 10 rush yards, 1pt per 10 receiving yards, 6pts per TD, and -2pts per fumble lost. The point value corresponds to what they would have scored their rookie year and the draft number is where they were drafted in the NFL draft.

2000

Jamal Lewis (#5 overall) 198

Thomas Jones (#7 overall) 82.1

Ron Dayne (#11 overall) 106

Sean Alexander (#19 overall) 43.3

2001

LT (#5 Overall) 210.3

Deuce McAlister (#23 overall) 37.7

Anthony Thomas (#38 overall) 178.1

Travis Henry (#58 overall) 110.8

2002

William Green (#16 overall) 132

TJ Duckett (#18 Overall) 80.8

Deshaun Foster (#34 Overall) 75.6

Clinton Portis (#51 Overall) 283.2

2003

No running back was even worth it.

2004

Stephen Jackson (#24 Overall) 108.2

Kevin Jones (#30 Overall) 165.3

Tatum Bell (#41 Overall) 63.6

Julius Jones (#43 Overall) 128.8

2005

Ronnie Brown (#2 Overall) 135.9

Cedric Benson (#4 Overall) 28.2

Cadillac Williams (#5 Overall) 145.9

JJ Arrington (#44 Overall) 60.9

2006

Reggie Bush (#2 Overall)174.7

Lawrence Maroney (#21 Overall) 133.9

DeAngelo Williams (#27 Overall) 93.4

Joeseph Addai (#30 Overall) 184.6

MJD (#60 Overall) 210.7

The top Backs from last year in order and their points:

LT 416.3

LJ 329.9

Stephen Jackson 325.4

Frank Gore 262

Willie Parker 257.6

Brian Westbrook 253.6

Tiki Braber 240.7

Rudi Johnson 211.3

MJD 210.7

Edgerrin James 185.6

Joeseph Addai 184.6

Ladell Betts 183.9

Deuce McAlister 183.5

Ahman Green 177.2

Travis Henry 174.9

Jamal Lewis 174.7

Reggie Bush 174.7

Thomas Jones 170.4

Corey Dillon 169.9

Fred Taylor 164.8

MBIII 163.7

Chester Taylor 162.4

Warrick Dunn 161

Kevin Jones 158.9

Ronnie Brown 154.4

Julius Jones 144.6

Willis McGahee 136.6

M. Bell 131.5

Sean Alexander 130.4

T. Bell 116

Cedric Benson 106.1

Brandon Jacobs 95.4

Using this scoring only 7 rookie running backs in the past 6 years, with 3 of them being drafted last year, would have ended last season in the top 20 with their rookie season stats. When you look at the backs that have succeeded they were in a good situation and had were "The" back. To get a rookie running back going they need time just like any other player. Running back has the easiest transition from NCAA to NFL as far as fantasy scoring goes, but it still takes time. Looking at the top backs this year:

Adrian Peterson -- Great back, will have a great career, but right now he is in a committee and in an offense that does not stress running the ball.

Marshawn Lynch -- Good back, but in a bad spot. Willis McGahee couldn't even run for 1,000 yards behind that line and he will lose carries to Anthony Thomas.

Kenny Irons -- Chris Perry anyone? The Bengals have drafted another running back high that will sit behind Rudi Johnson.

Brandon Jackson -- Will be a part of a committee and not the most talented back out there.

Running backs are the big hitters in fantasy football and owners are always looking for the next stud back to burst onto the scene and carry them to a championship. Now I am not saying that rookie backs have no value, but too often people count on unproven rookie running backs to carry them to the championship. Do yourself a favor and let someone else in your league draft the overly hyped rookie.