The Fantasy Football Blog

It's amazing that October begins tomorrow. It's easily my favorite month. Football season is in full swing and the baseball playoffs begin. Can't beat that.

Oh, yeah. GO SOX!

Here are some things rattling in my head as we get into Week 4.

I'm concerned about Mike Anderson (DEN-RB) this week. Last week he finally look like the player we all expected when he won the Broncos' starting job in the preseason, but the Jacksonville defense has made virtually everyone look bad this season. I have the same feeling about Kevin Jones (DET-RB) facing Tampa. Anderson is an OK start, but go with someone else if you have another strong option. ... In today's column, I wrote about players desperately needing a big week. I easily could have included Andre Johnson (HOU-WR) in that list. The lack of ability at quarterback on that team has really hurt Johnson, who has the talent to be a top-5 receiver. ... Speaking of the Houston-Cincy game, I would love to have any of the Bengals top starters in this game. ... The Indianapolis defense has been terrific this year, but I still think Chris Brown (TEN-RB) is going to produce solid numbers now that he doesn't have to split any time with the suspended Travis Henry (TEN-RB). ... I really like Eli Manning (NYG-QB) against St. Louis this week. ... If you are picking winners this week, especially in a survivor pool, doesn't Baltimore against the QB-less New York Jets seem almost too good? I'm strongly considering going with another team, just because this is the type of perfect selection that everyone ends up losing on.

Major Players in the NFL Injury Report (Same as Thursday's post)
I'll update it Friday night if there is any major news.
OUT: Nate Burleson (MIN-WR), Jay Fiedler (NYJ-QB), Chad Pennington (NYJ-QB), Kyle Boller (BAL-QB), Kurt Warner (ARZ-QB), David Akers (PHI-K)
DOUBTFUL: Isaac Bruce (STL-WR)
QUESTIONABLE: Joe Horn (NO-WR), Jason Hanson (DET-K), Steven Jackson (STL-RB), Bubba Franks (GB-TE)

Every Tuesday, we post the latest news on injuries leading into the upcoming games and update them in in italics until Friday, when the extras run with the latest column. Updates will include the big names on the NFL’s injury reports that are released every Wednesday.

UPDATED: WEDNESDAY, 12 A.M. and again THURSDAY (see bottom)

Kurt Warner (ARZ-QB) left Sunday’s game with a groin injury and did not return. Josh McCown (ARZ-QB) took over in the second quarter and finished 10-for-23 for 97 yards and one interception.

Not exactly confidence-inspiring numbers.

David Akers (PHI-K) will almost certainly miss this weekend’s game against KC after some heroic kicks in Sunday’s win. Todd France (PHI-K) will likely start in his place.

Isaac Bruce (STL-WR) and Steven Jackson (STL-RB) were both on the sideline during the second half of the Rams’ win over Tennessee. Bruce struggled with turf toe and Jackson was dealing with a rib injury (no breaks were revealed in X-rays).

Kevin Curtis (STL-WR) and Marshall Faulk (STL-WR) are both great fantasy starts if Bruce or Jackson can’t go this weekend.

Travis Henry (TEN-RB) was suspended four games for violating the league’s substance abuse policy. This is good news for owners for Chris Brown (TEN-RB), who is now an immediate must-start. Henry won’t be available to play until Oct. 24 against Oakland.

What is going on with the Jets? Chad Pennington (NYJ-QB) is done for the season and Jay Fiedler (NYJ-QB) will likely miss this weekend’s game with shoulder injuries.

Brooks Bollinger (NYJ-QB) will likely get the start at Baltimore. Probably want to avoid that matchup.

Check back here through Thursday for injury updates.

UPDATES

The New York Jets signed Vinny Testaverde today after acknowledging that Chad Pennington (NYJ-QB) was out for the year (maybe two). Jay Fiedler (NYJ-QB) will likely be the starter when he returns, but you shouldn't use any Jets QB on your fantasy team.

Mike Anderson (DEN-RB) looked good Monday night (98 yards, TD) and should be started in most leagues.

Hopefully, Mewelde Moore (MIN-RB) did enough in Sunday's win over the Saints to force coach Mike Tice to make him the featured back. He's a decent start at Atlanta Sunday. If he's the go-to guy, he becomes a good start.

Both Larry Johnson and Priest Holmes (KC-RBs) looked bad Monday night. They take on a pretty good Philly defense Sunday, but Holmes is a must-start and Johnson should be considered in many leagues.

Season-ending injuries to defensive stars Rodney Harrison (NE-DB) and Takeo Spikes (BUF-LB) hurt their respective squads, but both will likely remain good fantasy options.

I'll have more updates when the injury report comes out. Hopefully we'll have a better idea on a few injuries.

THURSDAY

NFL Injury Report

OUT: Nate Burleson (MIN-WR), Jay Fiedler (NYJ-QB), Chad Pennington (NYJ-QB), Kyle Boller (BAL-QB), Kurt Warner (ARZ-QB), David Akers (PHI-K)

DOUBTFUL: Isaac Bruce (STL-WR)

QUESTIONABLE: Joe Horn (NO-WR), Jason Hanson (DET-K), Steven Jackson (STL-RB), Bubba Franks (GB-TE)

OVERREACTION 1 — I try never to mention my own fantasy football leagues or teams in my columns or here on the blog.

It feels about as interesting as listening to someone else’s bad beat in poker. If it didn’t happen to you, it’s boring.

However, I’m going to point out one quick thing as my first overreaction because I’m sure many of you went through it Sunday, too.

I’m in many fantasy football leagues, but there are two keeper leagues that I take REALLY seriously.

I expect both teams to have very good totals after Monday night, but neither has a prayer of winning.

Why? Because in one league, I played against Shaun Alexander (SEA-RB) and his four TD runs. In the other, I played against LaDainian Tomlinson (SD-RB) and his four total TDs (including one passing).

There are only so many things you can control in fantasy football. Sometimes, you just have to grin and bear the bad breaks.

It still stinks, though.

OVERREACTION 2 — With Sunday’s three-touchdown performance against a pretty good Chicago Bears defense, Carson Palmer (CIN-QB) is officially a must-start in every fantasy league. Unless you have a Peyton Manning (IND-QB), Donovan McNabb (PHI-QB), Daunte Culpepper (MIN-QB) or maybe Marc Bulger (STL-QB), he’s got to be your starter. If you have two of the elite guys, put one on the trading block and see what you can get in return.

OVERREACTION 3 — Speaking of Culpepper, I’m not really sure what to think of his 300-yard day against New Orleans.

The Saints were very sloppy and the extra grind they’ve gone through in the past month clearly overran them this weekend.

Was Culpepper finally back on track or did he run into a team completely out of gas?

I’m really not sure, but Sunday definitely kept him off the "should I consider benching him?" list for at least one more week.

Also, J.P. Losman (BUF-QB) has been terrible the last two weeks. Normally, I would recommend just axing him and letting him be someone else’s problem. But he’s playing against the Saints next week and that could possibly even turn him into a good starting option if you need one because of byes.

I need some more time to figure this one out.

OVERREACTION 4 — I would rather start Sean Salisbury (ESPN-QB) than David Carr (HOU-QB) next week.

Not only has Carr been terrible this season, he’s playing the Bengals, whose defense has two straight five-interception games. No thanks.

OVERREACTION 5 — San Diego’s big win had much more to do with the Chargers desperately needing to get their first win than the team trying to punish Eli Manning (NYG-QB) for the NFL Draft fiasco from two years ago.

The Giants, meanwhile, have beaten two bad teams (Arizona and New Orleans (via the situation)) and aren’t very good themselves. They’ll could still make the playoffs, however, because the NFC just isn’t that good.

EXTRA — We all really need to figure out a way to credit kickers for game-winning field goals in the final two minutes. I’m open to suggestions.

MONDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL
Kansas City at Denver (ABC, 9)
Two of the top three preseason fantasy RBs (Tomlinson and Alexander) have had tremendous weeks. Will the consensus No. 3, Priest Holmes (KC-RB) match them?

Will the Chiefs defense, which has been fantastic in its first two games, stuff the Broncos’ running attack?

How much action will Ron Dayne (DEN-RB) see after a few impressive runs in last week’s game?

Will Mike Anderson (DEN-RB) ever show off the form we saw in the preseason?

Did anyone take the under on this game?

Check back Tuesday morning for the first Injury/Roster updates for Week 4.

There are a handful of players that really need to step up this week. The biggest is Daunte Culpepper (MIN-QB).

Culpepper, a first round pick in many fantasy leagues, has been terrible in his first two games, including a five-interception performance in last week's loss to the Bengals. Whenever I am asked about benching stars in favor of another player who may have a better matchup, I always say that you never sit your stars. Well, unless Culpepper starts playing like a star this weekend against New Orleans, he may be dropped to that "benchable" status.

Further making this a difficult issue is that the Vikings, who were already shaky at wide receiver, will likely be without Nate Burleson (MIN-WR), who was injured last weekend and is listed as doubtful. Minnesota will surely use rookie Troy Williamson (MIN-WR) and possibly Koren Robinson (MIN-WR) with Travis Taylor (MIN-WR). Is that enough to get Culpepper out of this funk? We'll find out Sunday.

DEEP STARTER - Travis Taylor (MIN-WR) is an absolute starter in any 12-team leagues that require at least three starting WRs. Even in smaller leagues, he's adequate.

BENCH - My concerns about Reuben Droughns (CLE-RB) continue this week. The Browns are playing a much-improved Indianapolis defense and I'm just not convinced Droughns will get enough carries this week, especially if the Colts jump out to a 24-0 lead in the first half.

STAT OF WEEK 2 - Peyton Manning (IND-QB) went 13-of-28 passing for 122 yards and no TDs in a 10-3 win over Jacksonville. That's some Jaguars defense.

INJURIES

Updating Thursday's post: Vick has been moved up to Probable and will almost definitely play this weekend.

OUT: Rex Grossman (CHI-QB), Ronald Curry (OAK-WR), Javon Walker (GB-WR)
DOUBTFUL: Eric Johnson (SF-TE), Jerome Bettis (PIT-RB), Nate Burleson (MIN-WR).
QUESTIONABLE: Stephen Davis (CAR-RB), Lee Suggs (CLE-RB), Byron Leftwich (JAX-QB), Duce Staley (PIT-RB), Donovan McNabb (PHI-QB), David Akers (PHI-K), Bubba Franks (GB-TE), Drew Bennett (TEN-WR), Chris Brown (TEN-RB), Tatum Bell (DEN-RB).

Every Tuesday, I’ll post the latest news on injuries leading into the upcoming games and update them in in italics until Friday, when the extras run with the latest column. Updates will include the big names on the NFL’s injury reports that are released every Wednesday.

UPDATED: THURSDAY, 5 P.M.

Ronald Curry (OAK-WR) suffered a torn Achilles and is done for the year.

Michael Bennett (MIN-RB) was benched twice after fumbles in the Vikings’ loss to Cincy Sunday. Tice may go with Mewelde Moore (MIN-RB) and maybe even Moe Williams (MIN-RB) in Sunday’s game against New Orleans. Unless one is considered the main man, I’d look elsewhere if possible.

Chris Brown (TEN-RB) suffered a mild concussion in Sunday’s win over Baltimore. Brown played through it early, but started feeling worse and was pulled in favor of Travis Henry (TEN-RB). We’ll keep a close eye on this over the week.

Bill Cowher has announced that Willie Parker (PIT-RB) is the Steelers’ starter regardless of the health of Jerome Bettis (PIT-RB) and Duce Staley (PIT-RB). Parker will likely lose carries in short-yardage situations when they are healthy, but is definitely worth starting in all leagues.

Byron Leftwich (JAX-QB) hurt his leg in Sunday’s loss to Indy. He stayed in the game, but his status is up in the air. We’ll see what he’s listed at in Wednesday’s NFL Injury Report.

Curtis Martin (NYJ-RB) has a strained knee and word on his status hasn’t been clear. He’ll have an MRI and that will, hopefully, clear the air.

Michael Vick (ATL-QB) suffered a hamstring injury late in Sunday’s loss to Seattle. He’ll likely still play this Sunday against Buffalo. Start him if you must, but go with another QB if you have one with equal value.

Ron Dayne (DEN-RB) looked great in the fourth quarter of Sunday’s win over San Diego. Dayne finished with 44 yards on eight carries compared to Mike Anderson’s (DEN-RB) 15-for-49. Dayne will almost surely get more touches in the coming weeks and Anderson’s value is rapidly dropping.

During his pasting of the 49ers, Terrell Owens (PHI-WR) suffered a strained abdomen muscle. He’s not expected to miss any time.

Nice job by Donte Stallworth Monday night (8 catches, 141 yards), who clearly took to the Overreactions challenge.

UPDATE: Here's the latest on the injury report.

OUT: Rex Grossman (CHI-QB), Ronald Curry (OAK-WR), Javon Walker (GB-WR)

DOUBTFUL: Eric Johnson (SF-TE), Jerome Bettis (PIT-RB), Nate Burleson (MIN-WR).

QUESTIONABLE: Michael Vick (ATL-QB), Stephen Davis (CAR-RB), Lee Suggs (CLE-RB), Byron Leftwich (JAX-QB), Duce Staley (PIT-RB), Donovan McNabb (PHI-QB), David Akers (PHI-K), Bubba Franks (GB-TE), Drew Bennett (TEN-WR), Chris Brown (TEN-RB), Tatum Bell (DEN-RB).

ALSO:

Latest word is that Mike Anderson (DEN-RB) will start for the Broncos this week, but expect Ron Dayne (DEN-RB) to get a good number of carries as well.

I'll be back tomorrow (Friday) morning with the Extras updates to go with my weekly column.

Muhsin Muhammad (with ball, AP)

Each Monday we overreact to the biggest news and stats from the previous Sunday and preview the Monday night game.

OVERREACTION 1 — The injury to Rex Grossman (CHI-QB) was the best thing that could have happened to fantasy owners of Muhsin Muhammad (CHI-WR).

Muhammad seems to be developing a relationship with rookie starter Kyle Orton (CHI-QB), who has a better arm than Grossman. The difference could work out to 20 or so more catches and a few extra touchdowns this season.


Joey Harrington (with ball, AP)

OVERREACTION 2 — Joey Harrington (DET-QB) is done. He threw for five interceptions in the 38-6 loss to the Bears and managed 196 yards and one touchdown. If Jeff Garcia (DET-QB) was healthy, Lions fans would be going crazy asking for a change. Heck, even UConn alum and rookie Dan Orlovsky (DET-QB) could be better.

OVERREACTIONS 3 — I’m officially worried about Jamal Lewis (BAL-RB). Apparently, spending the offseason in jail isn’t the best way to prepare for the NFL season. Who knew?
Anyway, 10 carries for nine yards against the Tennessee Titans completely wrecked many fantasy owners’ weeks and has all of us scratching our heads. Maybe the bye week will help the Ravens figure things out.


Willie Parker (AP)

OVERREACTION 4 — Willie Parker (PIT-RB), who had 111 yards on 25 carries in Sunday’s win over Houston, can’t possibly lose the starting job once old-timers Jerome Bettis (PIT-RB) and Duce Staley (PIT-RB) return from injuries.

He may lose some goal-line and short-yardage touches, but coach Bill Cowher would be crazy not to give him 22-25 carries per game the rest of the year.

OVERREACTION 5 — The Jaguars defense may be the best in the NFL. Any team that can hold Peyton Manning (IND-QB) to 13-of-28 passing for 122 yards and no touchdowns is OK by me.

MISC — You really, really don’t want to have a stud running back taking on Tampa Bay. ... Who the heck is Ran Carthon (IND-RB)? ... I’m begging, begging Vikings coach Mike Tice to PICK A RUNNING BACK AND USE HIM! ... It may be time to start worrying about the Patriots running game. Playing the Steelers next week isn’t going to help. ... The Panthers made it clear Sunday that Stephen Davis (25 carries, 77 yards, three TDs) is the featured runner if he’s healthy. ... You didn’t really think Donovan McNabb (PHI-QB) and Terrell Owens (PHI-WR) were going to struggle against San Fran, right? ... Carson Palmer (CIN-QB) is officially "there." ... Decent job by Marcell Shipp (ARZ-RB) in Sunday’s loss to St. Louis (12 carries, 54 yards). I wish Dennis Green would give him a legitimate chance. ... How ugly are the Miami Dolphins games? ... Monday’s Cowboys-Redskins game could be even uglier. Thankfully, we have another option that may be entertaining:

MONDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL
Two games, two sets of questions

New York Giants at New Orleans Saints at Giants Stadium
(ABC, 7:30 then moves to ESPN, 9)
Will the Saints come back to reality after last week’s emotional win or are they going to last?
Will Deuce McAllister (NO-RB) improve on last week’s 64 yards?
Is Donte Stallworth (NO-WR) ever going to have 100 yards receiving in a game?
Is Brandon Jacobs (NYG-RB) the real deal?
Is Eli Manning (NYG-QB) ready for prime time?
How will the fans act on what promises to be a somber night?

Washington Redskins at Dallas Cowboys
(ABC, 9)
Will anyone watch this game before the Giants/Saints game ends?
Can the Redskins tough defense stop Julius Jones (DAL-RB)?
With Patrick Crayton (DAL-WR) continue where he left off in last week’s win over San Diego (six catches, 89 yards, one TD)?
Can the Redskins, who scored just nine points in last week’s win over Chicago, get their offense going?
Will Mark Brunell (WAS-QB) look more like the 2000 version or the 2004 version?
Is Washington coach Joe Gibbs finally figuring out how to use Clinton Portis (WAS-RB)?
Will our collective brains explode while trying to keep an eye on two games that could determine fantasy outcomes tomorrow night?

Kurt Warner (AP)

I’m still working out the bugs with how to use this area to best cover the regular season week-in and week-out, but I like the schedule from last week:

MONDAY: Overreactions to the Sunday games and quick preview of Monday Night Football.
TUESDAY, WEDNESDAY, THURSDAY: Start post for injury/roster updates that stays at the top of the page and is updated through the week.
FRIDAY: Extras to go along with the column
For now, this seems to make the most sense.

INJURIES
OUT — Rex Grossman (CHI-QB), Jeff Garcia (DET-QB), Javon Walker (GB-WR), Kyle Boller (BAL-QB)
DOUBTFUL — Jerome Bettis (PIT-RB), Eric Johnson (SF-TE)
Questionables haven’t changed since Thursday’s update. If there is any major movement tonight, I’ll update it in italics.

OTHER NEWS — Marcel Shipp (ARZ-RB) may take extra carries from rookie J.J. Arrington (ARZ-RB) this week, stay away from both if possible. ... Shaud Williams (BUF-RB) seems to have locked up the backup position behind Willis McGahee (BUF-RB). If you are looking to handcuff McGahee, use Williams. ... I thought Steve Smith (CAR-WR) looked like a top-10 fantasy player at his position on Sunday. ...Brandon Stokely (IND-WR) sure looked completely healthy in Sunday night’s win over Baltimore. Start him this week. ... Is there anything rookie Matt Jones (JAX-WR) can’t do? I wouldn’t take him off the field if I was coach Jack Del Rio. Still not sure he has much fantasy value, though.

STAT OF LAST WEEK — Andre Johnson (HOU-WR) had just three catches for 18 yards in the loss to Buffalo. I know Buffalo’s defense is supposed to be pretty good, but that’s unacceptable.

SLEEPER — Rookie Brandon Jacobs (NYG-RB) could absolutely rush for 50 yards and a touchdown as a change of pace back behind Tiki Barber (NYG-RB). He’s a guy worth grabbing and sitting on your bench just in case he goes wild.

BUST — I’m through with David Carr (HOU-QB), who completed just 9-of-21 passing attempts for 70 yards while throwing three interceptions in the loss to Buffalo. Again, the Bills D is good, but that’s ridiculous. He’s facing another great defense this week, Pittsburgh, on the road. I’d rather start Jeff George.

Check back Monday morning for overreactions to Sunday’s games and a quick preview of the Monday Night Football games.

Every Tuesday, I'll post the latest news on injuries leading into the upcoming games and update them in in italics until Friday, when the extras run with my new column. Updates will include the big names on the NFL's injury reports that are released every Wednesday.

SPECIAL NOTE: I'll be on The Press Box with Bob Behler and Scott Harris on The Zone 640 AM at 4:20 p.m. tomorrow (Thursday).

UPDATED: Tuesday, 10 p.m. and Wednesday 9:30 p.m. see bottom of post

The big one this week is Javon Walker (GB-WR) who suffered a major knee injury and will miss the entire season. This reminds me a lot of Steve Smith (CAR-WR) last season. Look for Donald Driver (GB-WR) to become Brett Favre's (GB-QB) main target and expect Bubba Franks (GB-TE) to see more passes come his way.

So much was expected of Mike Anderson (DEN-RB) in Week 1, only to have him suffer a rib injury early in the game. He never returned and finished with just five yards rushing. He's expected to have an MRI and his status for Week 2 will be more clear once the tests come back. Tatum Bell (DEN-RB) will get the start if Anderson can't go.

John Hall (WAS-K) left Sunday's game with a leg problem and he'll likely miss some time. Find another kicker.

It took less than one game for Patrick Ramsey (WAS-QB) to lose his job. Mark Brunell (WAS-QB) has been named the starter for Monday's game at Dallas. I suggest trying not to start either of them.

Eric Johnson (SF-TE) couldn't go with a foot injury in Week 1. The 49ers are hoping he'll suit up this weekend at Philadelphia.

Jerome Bettis (PIT-RB), Duce Staley (PIT-RB) and Lee Suggs (CLE-RB) all missed Week 1. We'll keep an eye on their status as Sunday approaches.

Speaking of Suggs, I was pleasantly suprised with Rueben Droughns' (CLE-RB) performance in Sunday's loss to the Bengals. Droughns finished with 78 yards on 12 carries despite the move from Denver's tremendous O-Line to the Browns patchwork one. Droughns may just be a reliable fantasy backup after all. We'll see what happens when Suggs returns.

The big pickups this week (especially in deeper leagues) are: Patrick Crayton (DAL-WR), Shaun McDonald (STL-WR), Michael Jenkins (ATL-WR), Chris Wilcox (BAL-TE) and (name of the week alert) Frisman Jackson (CLE-WR).

QUICK MONDAY NIGHT THOUGHTS - Jenkins is the real deal. ... Warrick Dunn (ATL-RB) may have been the steal of many, many fantasy drafts. ... Donovan McNabb (PHI-QB) owners would like to see him take off a few times a game, especially down near the end zone. ... The Atlanta defense is scary good. ... With two games next Monday night to determine our fantasy matchups, I'm concerned that my head will explode.

UPDATED: Tuesday, 10 p.m.

Kyle Boller (BAL-QB) is out for Week 2. Anthony Wright (BAL-QB) will start at Tennessee. If Wright plays well, he may keep the job. ... Larry Johnson (KC-RB) was arrested Monday night at a bar for domestic abuse. What is in the Chiefs' water this season? Anyway, Johnson will still likely play Sunday and it sounds like the charges may be dropped soon. He has had previous problems with the law, so keep an eye on it if you own him. ... Speaking of Chiefs and the law, Lawrence Tynes (KC-K), who was arrested for assaulting a bouncer in the preseason, is in danger of losing his job. The Chiefs have brought in Todd France (K) to work out and may sign the free agent kicker. Whoever kicks for the high-powered KC offense will be worth a fantasy spot, so it's worth taking note of the comings and goings. Looks like Nick Novak (WAS-K) will start for the Redskins this week with John Hall (WAS-K) down. ... Also in D.C., word is that Patrick Ramsey (WAS-QB) is upset at losing his starting job, has asked for a trade. ... More tomorrow when the NFL inury reports come out.

UPDATED: Wednesday, 9:30 p.m.

The NFL releases its injury report each Wednesday. Here's the latest on the big names. I won't list players listed as probable because they almost always play.

Donovan McNabb (PHI-QB) is questionable for the game, but is saying that he'll play. Keep him as your starter unless something happens between now and then. ... Kyle Boller (BAL-QB) is out, as reported earlier in the week. Anthony Wright (BAL-QB) will start. Also for the Ravens, Daniel Wilcox (BAL-TE) is questionable. ... Ben Troupe (TEN-TE) is questionable. ... Lee Suggs (CLE-RB) is questionable, so Rueben Droughns (CLE-RB) will likely get the majority of carries again this week. ... Duce Staley (PIT-RB) is listed as questionable. He was listed there for last week's game and didn't dress, so expect Willie Parker (PIT-RB) to again be the featured back, especially since Jerome Bettis (PIT-RB) is doubtful again. ... Mike Anderson (DEN-RB) is questionable and there has been little word otherwise. If he can't go, Tatum Bell (DEN-RB) will put up some yards. ... Eric Johnson (SF-TE) is doubtful while teammate Johnnie Morton (SF-WR) is questionable. ... Jeremy Shockey (NYG-TE) and Ernie Conwell (NO-TE) are both questionable.

That's it for now. Check out Friday's column and blog extras.

Brandon Jacobs (AP)
Welcome to the latest running feature here on the Daily Hampshire Gazette's Fantasy Football Blog. Each Monday we'll break down the biggest news and stats from the previous Sunday and preview the Monday night game.

I'm sure that part of this Friday's column will include me telling everyone not to overreact one way or the other to how their fantasy teams performed in Week 1. It's just one week, I'll say. Different matchups provide different results, so we have to give it a few weeks to really see who is breaking out and who is falling apart. Anyway, it will probably take me at least that long to settle down from this Sunday's performances to actually believe any of those words of wisdom.

So each Monday morning, I'll likely have five overreactions (sometimes with bonuses) to the previous day's results. Today is no different.

OVERREACTION NO. 1 - Brandon Jacobs (NYG-RB) is going to be a very, very good running back very soon. In Sunday's win over Arizona, Jacobs showed off a terrific blend of speed and power and will definitely see plenty of goal line carries for the Giants this year. He'll also get spot carries behind Tiki Barber (NYG-RB). Jacobs finished with 39 yards on six carries Sunday. New York would be crazy not to double his touches next week.


Ben Roethlisberger (7, AP)

OVERREACTION NO. 2 - There will be no sophomore slump for Ben Roethlisberger (PIT-QB). Big Ben torched the Tennessee Titans for 218 yards and two TDs on 9-for-11 passing and ended Week 1 with a perfect 158.3 passing rating. Granted, the Titans aren't exactly world beaters and first-round pick Adam "Pac Man" Jones (TEN-CB) didn't even play, but don't slow me down now! I'm on a roll!

OVERREACTION NO. 3 - Willie Parker (PIT-RB), the second-year player thrust into the starting role after injuries sidelined both Jerome Bettis (PIT-RB) and Duce Staley (PIT-RB) won't give back the starting spot. Parker finished with 209 combined rushing/receiving yards Sunday and will allow coach Bill Cowher to take his time getting the old-timers healthy.

OVERREACTION NO. 4 - Larry Johnson (KC-RB) looked far better than Priest Holmes (KC-RB) in Sunday's win over the New York Jets. Johnson showed a rare combination of speed and power, while Holmes looked a little old. Johnson finished with 110 rushing yards and two TDs on just nine carries, while Holmes had 85 yards and one score on 22 carries. Johnson should get at least 15 carries in any competitive game. Of course, the Jets were far from competitive Sunday.

OVERREACTION NO. 5 - Everyone's sleeper pick, Carson Palmer (CIN-QB) will absolutely make the leap to stardom this year. The third-year player completed 26-of-34 passes for 280 yards and two scores in the win over Cleveland. Expect 28 TDs and a trip to the playoffs.


Cadillac Williams (AP)

BONUS OVERREACTION (which means I'll probably still believe it come Friday) - Cadillac Williams (TB-RB) is going to be the top rookie running back this season. He rushed for 148 yards, including a 71-yard TD, in the win over Vikings. He's going to get the touches and the Bucs are good enough to get him the yards.

OOPS OF THE WEEK - Apparently, J.P. Losman (BUF-QB) wasn't such a bust this week. Losman (17-for-28, 170 yards, one TD, 31 rushing yards) looked like an old veteran and the Houston Texans defense looked pretty awful.

MONDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL
Philadelphia Eagles at Atlanta Falcons (ABC, 9)

Because the game features so many talented fantasy players, many fantasy matchups are still up for grabs after the week's first 15 contests are over.

The NFC Championship game rematch has plenty of stories, including:

Can Donovan McNabb (PHI-QB) and Terrell Owens (PHI-WR) really coexist? If the Eagles are trailing, will a fistfight break out? There will be no in between with these two. Either they'll connect for 150 yards and couple of scores or they'll struggle. I'm not betting against them.

The Falcons believe their new running style will be the key to more success this year. Will it pay off immediately for Warrick Dunn (ATL-RB) owners? The Eagles are without defensive tackle Corey Simon, who they released in a contract disput (He signed with Indy). Will they be able to hold off the run?

Who is going to be Michael Vick's (ATL-QB) go-to receiver? Alge Crumpler (ATL-TE) is a talented weapon, but can rookie Roddy White (ATL-WR) or second-year player Michael Jenkins (ATL-WR) or anyone else step up?

Will either kicker or defense do something extraordinary and cause havoc in fantasy football matchups?

Are you ready for some (more) football?

J.P. Losman (AP)

There are roughly one million reasons to love Week 1 of the NFL season.

The biggest from a fantasy football standpoint, however, may be the lack of injury question marks entering the week.

Generally speaking, you know where you stand with virtually everyone on your roster.

This will change as soon as next week, so enjoy the fact that you won’t be running from TV to computer during Sunday’s pregame shows looking for injury updates.

It will probably only last one week.

Regardless, let’s look at the guys who already have injury issues:

OUT — Rex Grossman (CHI-QB), Jerome Bettis (PIT-RB), Jeff Garcia (DET-QB).
Antonio Gates (SD-TE) will also miss Week 1, but not due to injury. He was suspended one game after an extended preseason holdout and will return next week.

OTHERS — It was originally thought that Brandon Stokely (IND-WR) would miss Week 1 with a shoulder injury, but he’s now listed as probable. If you have another reasonable option at the position, I’d let Stokely sit on your bench this week and then start him in Week 2.

Lee Suggs (CLE-RB) is considered doubtful for Sunday’s game against Cincinnati. Rueben Droughns (CLE-RB) is likely starting, but only use him if your other options are very limited.
Eric Johnson (SF-TE) is doubtful with a foot injury. If you have another option, definitely consider it.

SLEEPER — Willie Parker (PIT-RB) will get the start for the Steelers as Bettis and Duce Staley (PIT-RB) both suffered preseason injuries. Staley may still suit up for the game — he’s listed as questionable — but Parker should see the bulk of the carries.

A LITTLE SCARY — Be wary of Matt Hasselbeck (SEA-QB) this week. Playing at Jacksonville crushed a few quarterbacks last season and Hasselbeck could fall victim on Sunday.

If you have no other good options at the position, Hasselbeck isn’t terrible. But don’t expect him to blow the roof off this week.

BUST — Don't even consider J.P. Losman (BUF-QB) this week. Playing against an underrated Houston Texans defense, Losman could get lucky and post resonable numbers, but the likelihood is somewhere around six percent. Go elsewhere if possible.

Check back Monday morning for reactions to Sunday’s games and a quick preview of the Monday Night Football game between Philadelphia and Atlanta.

Thursday, 9 p.m. (ABC)

KEY MATCHUPS

When Oakland has the ball
LaMont Jordan (OAK-RB) vs. New England front seven: The Patriots had to rebuild their middle linebacking corps after Ted Johnson retired and Tedy Bruschi was forced to sit out the season after suffering a stroke. Will Jordan, who is entering his first season as a starter, and the Raiders offensive line be able to take advantage? Expect the Raiders to run early to set up the deep passing game.

Randy Moss (OAK-WR) vs. New England’s DBs: The Patriots weren’t willing to fork over enough money to keep long-time shutdown corner Ty Law (NYJ-CB), so they’ll go with some combination of Asante Samuel, Randall Gay, Tyrone Poole and Duane Starks playing corner. One of them (Samuel?) will face the task of shutting down Moss in his first game as a Raider. Expect Kerry Collins (OAK-QB) to throw in Moss’ direction early and often.

When New England has the ball

New England’s entire offense vs. Oakland’s entire defense: I know it's kind of a cop-out to just list the whole team, but the big question is: How will the Patriots fare in their first regular season game without former offensive coordinator Charlie Weis? With Weis now roaming the sidelines at Notre Dame, will the offense still flow? The starters looked good in limited preseason action, but will it continue? Expect Tom Brady (NE-QB), Corey Dillon (NE-RB) and company to be firing on all cylinders by the second half.

UPDATED: Tuesday, 6 p.m. The greatest receiver of all-time, Jerry Rice, has retired. He didn't have much fantasy value this season anyway, but it's still worth updating the blog for. More updates below.

Hope everyone is enjoying their day off.

Some news as we are finally done with the preseason and running full steam at Thursday's opener between New England and Oakland. (Don't forget, there will be an extended preview of that game available on the blog only!)

It looks like Peerless Price (DAL-WR) has decided to join Bill Parcells and the Cowboys. Not a bad choice for Price, who is a useful fifth or sixth fantasy receiver now. Maybe he'll catch on fast and become Drew Bledsoe's (DAL-QB) main target. Maybe not.

The Eagles were looking for a big back and got one off the waiver wire in Lamar Gordon (PHI-RB), who was cut by Miami this weekend. Gordon may see some goal line touches, but has never shown that he can handle an every day job. He and rookie Ryan Moats (PHI-RB) will battle for reserve time behind Brian Westbrook (PHI-RB).

Gus Frerotte (MIA-QB) will start Week 1 for the Dolphins. Let's hope he isn't starting Week 1 for your fantasy team.

Billy Miller (CLE-TE) landed with Cleveland, where there are now three mediocre tight ends: Steve Heiden (CLE-TE), Aaron Shea (CLE-TE) and Miller. Not exactly Tinker-to-Evers-to-Chance. Don't own any of them.

Paul Edinger (MIN-K) is officially the Vikings' kicker as Aaron Elling (K) was cut this weekend. Edinger is worth a start in fantasy leagues as the Vikings offense will give him plenty of field goal and extra points attempts.

SHAMELESS PLUG: Check out the Gazette's new UMass Sports Page, including Matt Vautour's UMass blog. There are still some bugs to work out, but it's definitely worth a visit.

As always, check back here for updates throughout the day Monday and Tuesday in italics.

UPDATE: Koren Robinson (MIN-WR) signed with the Vikings. A former No. 9 pick, he's certainly talented enough to be a star, but off-the-field questions are lingering. I honestly have no idea whether he'll turn into Sterling Sharpe or Hart Lee Dykes. He is set to go on trial for DUI on Sept. 14,so who knows what will happen.

Latest news on Jeff Garcia (DET-B) has him forgoing surgery and likely returning after six or eight weeks. The Lions are not expected to sign another QB to back up starter Joey Harrington (DET-QB).

Rookie Charlie Frye (CLE-QB) will serve as Trent Dilfer's (CLE-QB) backup this season. If the Browns struggle early, Frye could be starting by midseason.

UPDATED: Friday, 9:35 p.m.
Antonio Gates (SD-TE) came from nowhere last season to become the No. 2 fantasy player at his position. The most common TE question asked of me this year is: Who is this year's Gates?

I don't expect anyone to explode the way Gates did last year, but the best I can come up with is either rookie Heath Miller (PIT-TE) or Ben Troupe (TEN-TE). Miller isn't the athlete Troupe or Gates is, but he could find himself as a go-to inside receiver on a team that doesn't a big WR target. If that happens, Miller could go from deep backup to solid fantasy starter. Troupe, meanwhile, has a ton of upside and if he can find a bond with Steve McNair (TEN-QB) he could absolutely move all the way up to the top-8 or so at his position.

Those two are my deep sleepers.

INJURY RISK -- Jeremy Shockey (NYG-TE) may finally have put the questions about his ability to stay on the field to rest last year. Shockey played just nine games in his second year (2003), but played 15 games last season and caught 61 passes for 666 yards and six touchdowns. Personally, that's just too many sixes for my taste. It may be a sign of a future injury.

In all seriousness, though, Shockey is still an injury risk until he gets through this season. At that point, we can all rest easy (as long as he doesn't catch 666 yards worth of passes again).

CHEAT SHEETS UPDATED -- The cheat sheets have been updated for the final time. The numbers felt solid for each position, but some starting players lost their jobs and had to be flipped with the new starters.

Some examples are Mike Anderson (DEN-RB) and Tatum Bell (DEN-RB), Stephen Davis (CAR-RB), Deshaun Foster (CAR-RB) and Eric Shelton (CAR-RB) and Travis Taylor (MIN-WR) for Marcus Robinson (MIN-WR).

BONUS COLUMN -- Be sure to check out the blog on Wednesday for a special preview of Thursday's season-opener between Oakland and New England. The regular column will then run in its normal Friday spot with a full preview of Week 1.

ROSTER MOVES/INJURIES -- It's been an incredible preseason thus far with very few major fantasy players suffering serious injuries. Hopefully, I didn't just jinx the rest of the teams playing Friday.

Over the weekend, keep an eye on Peerless Price (WR), who was cut last week by Atlanta. While he struggled with the Falcons' offense and his role as the No. 1 target, he may catch on with a team like Philadelphia, which would make him a rasonable fantasy backup.

As always, check back here for updates in italics.

UPDATE: Jeff Garcia (DET-QB) broke his leg in Friday's exhibition game. Garcia, who was considered a fantasy sleeper with a chance to overtake Lions' starter Joey Harrington (DET-QB) may be done for the season. Harrington's job appeared safe heading into this week, but it's super-safe now.