WEEK 14 FANTASY SLEEPER
By William Queen for Football Reporters Online
Nearing the end of the regular season, fantasy football fans are thinking of only one word; playoffs. Over the course of the season, I’ve provided a fantasy sleeper every week to help you out with who to bench and who to start. Well Washington Redskins running back Quinton Ganther takes the spot as week 14’s fantasy sleeper; if you need an extra boost this week, this is the guy to get.
Only 21% of fantasy leagues have this guy on a roster. And only 12% start him. So, needless to say, no one knows who he is. However, that doesn’t mean he can’t rack up fantasy points. Not getting a rushing attempt till the 10th week of the season, Ganther was simply an unknown backup. But, hence to two season-ending injuries suffered by backs in front of him, Ganther has his shot.
This is Ganther’s first career start, meaning that he’ll be looking to impress and hopefully take over in the Redskins backfield for the rest of the season. And lucky him, guess who’s lining up on defense? Only the worst rush defense in the NFL; the Oakland Raiders.
Allowing nearly 160 yards rushing per game, the Raiders think they’re catching a break with Ganther in the backfield. But little do they know that the Washington Redskins, along with back Quinton Ganther, will be looking for revenge after they’re suffering a painful 33-30 overtime loss vs. the Saints.
Saturday, December 12, 2009
JETS TAKE ON BUCS WITHOUT SANCHEZ
JETS TAKE ON BUCS WITHOUT SANCHEZ
by TJ Rosenthal for Football Reporters Online
watch the jet report for week 14 with T,J, and Griff at:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FbLk4SHhSLw&feature=sub
The 6-6 Jets head South to Tampa to take on the 1-11 Bucs as the march towards the playoffs continues. To keep it rolling the Jets are going to have to do it without QB Mark Sanchez whose knee sprain suffered on the scramble in Buffalo has forced head coach Rex Ryan to err on the side of caution. Kellen Clemens takes over as signal caller in a must win for the Jets, plain and simple.
The Jets currently find themselves in a 6-6 logjam with the Dolphins, Steelers and Ravens. Gang Green and the other .500 AFC East clubs are chasing the 7-5 Jaguars who beat the Jets weeks back in a game that looms large with tie breaker implications going against the Jets should both teams finish with the same record. That said, the Bucs game is huge with banged up Atlanta on deck. After that the undefeated Colts and first place Bengals await. There's no room for error this weekend. 8-6 is essential if the Jets want to keep it going past Christmas.
Clemens replaced Sanchez in the third quarter last Thursday against Buffalo and was rusty. The fourth year QB lost his footing on a few occasions, fumbled a snap, and was stripped on a rollout near the Jet goal line. Sunday will be Clemens first start since the final game in 2007, a win over the hapless Chiefs. “Yeah, I’m coming off a one-game winning streak,’’ Clemens said. “That’s 23 months ago … it seems like a long time ago.’’
Fortunately for Clemens the gameplan may be the same. Ground and Pound. Buffalo was ranked 32nd in rushing defense going into last week. The Jets, the number one rushing team in the NFL at 168.6 yards per game lived up to their average in week 13. The RB combo of Thomas Jones and Shonn Greene rushed for 168 yards combined. Tampa comes into the game ranked 31st. Clemens will need to manage the game, make solid decisions, move the chains at times, and like Sanchez, not make unforced errors. The truth is though, Sunday will again be about the run game.
Can Clemens lead the Jets to a win? He says that he just has to do his job. Nothing more. This IS a 1-11 opponent. Coach Rex Ryan is showing faith in his backup. “I have a lot of confidence in Kellen Clemens; this football team has confidence in Kellen.’’ The colorful rookie head coach also provided insight as to how Sanchez took the news of the benching. “He’s mad as a hornet at me. But that’s good. I was mad at him (for not sliding Thursday) and now he’s mad at me, so we’re even.’’
Buccaneers rookie head coach Raheem Morris inserted Josh Freeman into the starting lineup during the middle of the season.The rookie QB led the Bucs to their only win, a 38-28 victory over Green Bay four weeks back in which 2009's 17th overall pick in the April NFL draft tossed three TDs. Last week Freeman threw for 321 yards no TDs, and five picks in a loss to the 4-7 Panthers. WR Antonio Bryant had 116 of those receiving yards, and appears to have shaken off the injury bug that has plagued the clubs top wideout all year. TE Kellen Winslow Jr provides Freeman with another threat in the passing game and the once oft injured RB Cadillac Williams who gained 92 yards last week can get loose from time to time. The Jets defense however, is ranked second in the NFL giving up just 276 yards per game (Green Bay is first at 273 yds given up on average). The front four will need to contain Williams while the Jet ground game tries to control the tempo in the first half.
CB Darelle Revis is coming off yet another sensational performance in holding hot WR Terrell Owens to a mere 30 yards. CB Lito Shephard kept speedy Lee Evans to just 40 yards and was aggressive playing the ball, almost turning a few Ryan Fitzpatrick throws into ints. LB David Harris is heating up again. Last week in Toronto, Harris had 11 tackles and was a force all game. If the Jet top defenders like Revis, Harris, LB Bart Scott can continue to have the presence they lacked during their November swoon, yet have regained in wins over Carolina and Buffalo the load will be even lighter for Clemens. At 6-6, this is no time for the Jets to take a step back. One false move in Tampa and 2009 is history.
THREE KEYS TO THE TAMPA BAY GAME
CLEMENS DO YOUR JOB: He said it. I just have to do my job. He's right. 150 passing yards, no bad ints backed up deep, and that could be enough. Remeber, he relieve Chad Pennington in 2007 and almost rescue the Jets in Baltimore early in the season.
ANTONIO BRYANT: and CADILLAC WILLIAMS Bryant's their one big play threat.
Finally he's healthy. Darelle Revis has shut everyone down in 2009. He'll need to do it again. Keep Bryant quiet and Williams modest and keeping the Bucs from stealing this game becomes that much easier.
EDWARDS, CATCH THE BALL: Kellen Clemens will need the WRs to hold onto catchable balls Sunday. The throws will be few and far between. Some may be deep shots, most third downs and manageable yardage. Clemens confidence will grow as the chains move. Extra focus is needed by Braylon Sunday. A long drop or a key third down muff this week could be costly.
follow TJ Rosenthal on Twitter @ thejetreport
by TJ Rosenthal for Football Reporters Online
watch the jet report for week 14 with T,J, and Griff at:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FbLk4SHhSLw&feature=sub
The 6-6 Jets head South to Tampa to take on the 1-11 Bucs as the march towards the playoffs continues. To keep it rolling the Jets are going to have to do it without QB Mark Sanchez whose knee sprain suffered on the scramble in Buffalo has forced head coach Rex Ryan to err on the side of caution. Kellen Clemens takes over as signal caller in a must win for the Jets, plain and simple.
The Jets currently find themselves in a 6-6 logjam with the Dolphins, Steelers and Ravens. Gang Green and the other .500 AFC East clubs are chasing the 7-5 Jaguars who beat the Jets weeks back in a game that looms large with tie breaker implications going against the Jets should both teams finish with the same record. That said, the Bucs game is huge with banged up Atlanta on deck. After that the undefeated Colts and first place Bengals await. There's no room for error this weekend. 8-6 is essential if the Jets want to keep it going past Christmas.
Clemens replaced Sanchez in the third quarter last Thursday against Buffalo and was rusty. The fourth year QB lost his footing on a few occasions, fumbled a snap, and was stripped on a rollout near the Jet goal line. Sunday will be Clemens first start since the final game in 2007, a win over the hapless Chiefs. “Yeah, I’m coming off a one-game winning streak,’’ Clemens said. “That’s 23 months ago … it seems like a long time ago.’’
Fortunately for Clemens the gameplan may be the same. Ground and Pound. Buffalo was ranked 32nd in rushing defense going into last week. The Jets, the number one rushing team in the NFL at 168.6 yards per game lived up to their average in week 13. The RB combo of Thomas Jones and Shonn Greene rushed for 168 yards combined. Tampa comes into the game ranked 31st. Clemens will need to manage the game, make solid decisions, move the chains at times, and like Sanchez, not make unforced errors. The truth is though, Sunday will again be about the run game.
Can Clemens lead the Jets to a win? He says that he just has to do his job. Nothing more. This IS a 1-11 opponent. Coach Rex Ryan is showing faith in his backup. “I have a lot of confidence in Kellen Clemens; this football team has confidence in Kellen.’’ The colorful rookie head coach also provided insight as to how Sanchez took the news of the benching. “He’s mad as a hornet at me. But that’s good. I was mad at him (for not sliding Thursday) and now he’s mad at me, so we’re even.’’
Buccaneers rookie head coach Raheem Morris inserted Josh Freeman into the starting lineup during the middle of the season.The rookie QB led the Bucs to their only win, a 38-28 victory over Green Bay four weeks back in which 2009's 17th overall pick in the April NFL draft tossed three TDs. Last week Freeman threw for 321 yards no TDs, and five picks in a loss to the 4-7 Panthers. WR Antonio Bryant had 116 of those receiving yards, and appears to have shaken off the injury bug that has plagued the clubs top wideout all year. TE Kellen Winslow Jr provides Freeman with another threat in the passing game and the once oft injured RB Cadillac Williams who gained 92 yards last week can get loose from time to time. The Jets defense however, is ranked second in the NFL giving up just 276 yards per game (Green Bay is first at 273 yds given up on average). The front four will need to contain Williams while the Jet ground game tries to control the tempo in the first half.
CB Darelle Revis is coming off yet another sensational performance in holding hot WR Terrell Owens to a mere 30 yards. CB Lito Shephard kept speedy Lee Evans to just 40 yards and was aggressive playing the ball, almost turning a few Ryan Fitzpatrick throws into ints. LB David Harris is heating up again. Last week in Toronto, Harris had 11 tackles and was a force all game. If the Jet top defenders like Revis, Harris, LB Bart Scott can continue to have the presence they lacked during their November swoon, yet have regained in wins over Carolina and Buffalo the load will be even lighter for Clemens. At 6-6, this is no time for the Jets to take a step back. One false move in Tampa and 2009 is history.
THREE KEYS TO THE TAMPA BAY GAME
CLEMENS DO YOUR JOB: He said it. I just have to do my job. He's right. 150 passing yards, no bad ints backed up deep, and that could be enough. Remeber, he relieve Chad Pennington in 2007 and almost rescue the Jets in Baltimore early in the season.
ANTONIO BRYANT: and CADILLAC WILLIAMS Bryant's their one big play threat.
Finally he's healthy. Darelle Revis has shut everyone down in 2009. He'll need to do it again. Keep Bryant quiet and Williams modest and keeping the Bucs from stealing this game becomes that much easier.
EDWARDS, CATCH THE BALL: Kellen Clemens will need the WRs to hold onto catchable balls Sunday. The throws will be few and far between. Some may be deep shots, most third downs and manageable yardage. Clemens confidence will grow as the chains move. Extra focus is needed by Braylon Sunday. A long drop or a key third down muff this week could be costly.
follow TJ Rosenthal on Twitter @ thejetreport
FRO’s Favorite Five” Frankie’s Favorite Fantasy Picks Week 14
“FRO’s Favorite Five”
Frankie’s Favorite Fantasy Picks
Week 14
By Frankie Underwood, Senior Fantasy Writer at www.footballreportersonline.com Email questions and comments to Frankie@footballreportersonline.com
Joe Flacco started the first few games of the season like a top 5 fantasy QB, but as the season went on that ranking has dropped. This weekend the Lions and their league worst pass defense is coming to town. Although the Detroit Lions run defense isn’t much better the Ravens should look at this game as a great chance to work the kinks out of that passing game. With Pittsburgh’s recent downfall Baltimore is in prime position to move up into one of the wildcard positions. By the way, it’s December and that means it is time for Eli Manning to shine again.
Can I honestly recommend a Kansas City Chief? Well at home against the leagues worst rushing defense; I’ll have to put it out there. Last week against a nice Denver run defense Jamal Charles managed 65 yards and one TD. This week with a possible QB controversy in town, the Chiefs should run the ball into the ground. With Kellen Clemens starting for the Injured Mark Sanchez, rookie RB Shonn Greene could get some additional carries as the Jets attempt to run the ball on a poor Tampa Bay defense.
Rookie Titans WR Kenny Britt is primed for another great game. This weekend against an injury riddled St. Louis Rams secondary Britt should easily continue his streak of playable fantasy performances. As a bonus, if your league allows return yardage and TDs to count for offensive players, Britt seems to have locked up the kick returner position and looks like he’ll break one soon. With Robert Meachem drawing attention as New Orleans travels to Atlanta, don’t forget that Devery Henderson is the dome receiver.
TE John Carlson hasn’t been the fantasy stud that most people anticipated this off season, this weekend he may live up to it. This week Carlson’s Seattle Seahawks travel south to Houston to face a Texans team that historically struggles against TEs. Last week 2 different TEs from Jacksonville lead the team in receiving, and Dallas Clark put up 63 yards and a TD the week before. Greg Olsen against Green Bay would be my second possible sleeper TE.
The Tennessee Titans defense should be ready to feast on the St. Louis Rams. This team is starting a back up QB, and receivers found anywhere they could, but they do have a stud RB that could pose the biggest threat. The Titans to need the birdman Bud Adams to tell Coach Jeff Fisher that he needs to start CB Rod Hood over Nick Harper and opposite Cortland Finnegan. New Orleans and Baltimore are also nice Defenses this weekend.
Last Weeks Favorite Five
Jay Cutler – 14 yards and one TD, wanted more but It’ll do.
Rashard Mendenhall – 103 yards and one TD, that’s about what I expect out of these picks maybe a few more yards.
Jason Avant – 36 yards, not even close, sorry.
Zach Miller – 43 yards, really wanted a score but that’ll do.
San Diego Chargers – Two sacks, one Fumble recovered, but allowed 23 points to Cleveland, sorry.
Frankie’s Favorite Fantasy Picks
Week 14
By Frankie Underwood, Senior Fantasy Writer at www.footballreportersonline.com Email questions and comments to Frankie@footballreportersonline.com
Joe Flacco started the first few games of the season like a top 5 fantasy QB, but as the season went on that ranking has dropped. This weekend the Lions and their league worst pass defense is coming to town. Although the Detroit Lions run defense isn’t much better the Ravens should look at this game as a great chance to work the kinks out of that passing game. With Pittsburgh’s recent downfall Baltimore is in prime position to move up into one of the wildcard positions. By the way, it’s December and that means it is time for Eli Manning to shine again.
Can I honestly recommend a Kansas City Chief? Well at home against the leagues worst rushing defense; I’ll have to put it out there. Last week against a nice Denver run defense Jamal Charles managed 65 yards and one TD. This week with a possible QB controversy in town, the Chiefs should run the ball into the ground. With Kellen Clemens starting for the Injured Mark Sanchez, rookie RB Shonn Greene could get some additional carries as the Jets attempt to run the ball on a poor Tampa Bay defense.
Rookie Titans WR Kenny Britt is primed for another great game. This weekend against an injury riddled St. Louis Rams secondary Britt should easily continue his streak of playable fantasy performances. As a bonus, if your league allows return yardage and TDs to count for offensive players, Britt seems to have locked up the kick returner position and looks like he’ll break one soon. With Robert Meachem drawing attention as New Orleans travels to Atlanta, don’t forget that Devery Henderson is the dome receiver.
TE John Carlson hasn’t been the fantasy stud that most people anticipated this off season, this weekend he may live up to it. This week Carlson’s Seattle Seahawks travel south to Houston to face a Texans team that historically struggles against TEs. Last week 2 different TEs from Jacksonville lead the team in receiving, and Dallas Clark put up 63 yards and a TD the week before. Greg Olsen against Green Bay would be my second possible sleeper TE.
The Tennessee Titans defense should be ready to feast on the St. Louis Rams. This team is starting a back up QB, and receivers found anywhere they could, but they do have a stud RB that could pose the biggest threat. The Titans to need the birdman Bud Adams to tell Coach Jeff Fisher that he needs to start CB Rod Hood over Nick Harper and opposite Cortland Finnegan. New Orleans and Baltimore are also nice Defenses this weekend.
Last Weeks Favorite Five
Jay Cutler – 14 yards and one TD, wanted more but It’ll do.
Rashard Mendenhall – 103 yards and one TD, that’s about what I expect out of these picks maybe a few more yards.
Jason Avant – 36 yards, not even close, sorry.
Zach Miller – 43 yards, really wanted a score but that’ll do.
San Diego Chargers – Two sacks, one Fumble recovered, but allowed 23 points to Cleveland, sorry.
AFC South Week 13 Wrap Up
AFC South Week 13 Wrap Up
By Rafael Garcia
Sr. Contributing Writer Football Reporters Online
Southeast Region
Indianapolis 27 Tennessee 17
You have to give it to these Titans when it comes to effort. They turned the ball over at critical times and did not score when they needed to but stayed with the Colts nonetheless. First off, the Colts tied the regular season record for consecutive wins, and stayed undefeated in the process. Peyton Manning was not his usual dominating self but was able to move the football like always and give Joseph Addai time to shine. He gave his team a season-high 79 hard fought yards on 21 carries and was able to get into the end zone twice. Pierre Garcon had a good game with six catches for a career-high 136 yards to help his team. The real story was the Titans penchant for mistakes. There was the Nate Washington drop of a Young pass that was a sure touchdown. There was Ahmard Hall’s fumble that killed a promising drive. An interception by Young did not help and then there was the fumble near the goal line that cost the Titans a touchdown. On the next play LenDale White ran it to the one but the play was called back for holding. The drive ended with a failed fourth-down try and the next drive ended the same way. Later others would say that they should have kicked field goals in those situations but it is too easy to look back. They out gained the Colts and held the ball five minutes more than Indy. Chris Johnson was held in relative check but got 113 yards to go over 100 yards rushing for the seventh straight game. He now has 1,509 yards and needs to average 149 yards over the last four games to tie the record with 2,105. So now they go back to the drawing board and that starts with St. Louis next week. It is a game they should win and a game that can pad Johnson’s stats. Most of all, it is the first game of four they must win and help will be needed. The Colts will now look at hosting the Broncos next week with a chance to match their best start ever at 13-0.
Jacksonville 23 Houston 18
A season gone bad just keeps getting worse for the Texans. With the hope of a playoff run gone, Houston was now looking to at least get back in the win column. What they managed to do was seal their postseason fate in a game full of mistakes. They threw three interceptions from three different players. The call on one of them was in question as Houston faced first and goal from the five. For some reason head coach Gary Kubiak gave the okay for a trick play down 23-12. The play called for running back Chris Brown to take the handoff and pass it to TE Joel Dreessen. The problem was Brown took the handoff and was pressured by CB Tyron Brackenridge. He got hit and threw the ball into the hands of Gerald Alexander and the drive was dead. Rex Grossman threw another one of the interceptions when he came in place of injured starter Matt Schaub and Schaub threw the other. The Jags put the game away in the second quarter when they scored 17 points against a sluggish Texans defense. They too came into the season with the coach’s job on the line and hopes of a playoff appearance. After this win they are still in the hunt but have a huge game against Miami. The Fins are one game behind the Jags so Jacksonville now finds itself in must-win mode for the rest of the year. Houston will look to at least win out in hopes of getting to 9-7. A place they have never been before in their first eight years.
By Rafael Garcia
Sr. Contributing Writer Football Reporters Online
Southeast Region
Indianapolis 27 Tennessee 17
You have to give it to these Titans when it comes to effort. They turned the ball over at critical times and did not score when they needed to but stayed with the Colts nonetheless. First off, the Colts tied the regular season record for consecutive wins, and stayed undefeated in the process. Peyton Manning was not his usual dominating self but was able to move the football like always and give Joseph Addai time to shine. He gave his team a season-high 79 hard fought yards on 21 carries and was able to get into the end zone twice. Pierre Garcon had a good game with six catches for a career-high 136 yards to help his team. The real story was the Titans penchant for mistakes. There was the Nate Washington drop of a Young pass that was a sure touchdown. There was Ahmard Hall’s fumble that killed a promising drive. An interception by Young did not help and then there was the fumble near the goal line that cost the Titans a touchdown. On the next play LenDale White ran it to the one but the play was called back for holding. The drive ended with a failed fourth-down try and the next drive ended the same way. Later others would say that they should have kicked field goals in those situations but it is too easy to look back. They out gained the Colts and held the ball five minutes more than Indy. Chris Johnson was held in relative check but got 113 yards to go over 100 yards rushing for the seventh straight game. He now has 1,509 yards and needs to average 149 yards over the last four games to tie the record with 2,105. So now they go back to the drawing board and that starts with St. Louis next week. It is a game they should win and a game that can pad Johnson’s stats. Most of all, it is the first game of four they must win and help will be needed. The Colts will now look at hosting the Broncos next week with a chance to match their best start ever at 13-0.
Jacksonville 23 Houston 18
A season gone bad just keeps getting worse for the Texans. With the hope of a playoff run gone, Houston was now looking to at least get back in the win column. What they managed to do was seal their postseason fate in a game full of mistakes. They threw three interceptions from three different players. The call on one of them was in question as Houston faced first and goal from the five. For some reason head coach Gary Kubiak gave the okay for a trick play down 23-12. The play called for running back Chris Brown to take the handoff and pass it to TE Joel Dreessen. The problem was Brown took the handoff and was pressured by CB Tyron Brackenridge. He got hit and threw the ball into the hands of Gerald Alexander and the drive was dead. Rex Grossman threw another one of the interceptions when he came in place of injured starter Matt Schaub and Schaub threw the other. The Jags put the game away in the second quarter when they scored 17 points against a sluggish Texans defense. They too came into the season with the coach’s job on the line and hopes of a playoff appearance. After this win they are still in the hunt but have a huge game against Miami. The Fins are one game behind the Jags so Jacksonville now finds itself in must-win mode for the rest of the year. Houston will look to at least win out in hopes of getting to 9-7. A place they have never been before in their first eight years.
NFC South Week 13 Wrap Up
NFC South Week 13 Wrap Up
By Rafael Garcia
Sr. Contributing Writer Football Reporters Online
Southeast Region
New Orleans 33 Washington 30
See, now this is why they play the game. There are going to be times in a season when you find yourself behind. There will be times when your backs are up against the wall for some reason or another. The Saints faced that problem Sunday against a determined Redskin team that has nothing to play for now but pride. To top that off the Saints gave Washington all they needed and more to win this game. The Saints scored once when Drew Brees was intercepted, then wide receiver Robert Meachem stripped the ball and got it back. If that wasn’t enough Meachem went untouched into the end zone. Oh and then there was 0-4 in the red zone, which is almost unheard of for this team. They had a total of 55 yards rushing to go with seven penalties for 102 yards. Then, when they had come back, Washington set up for the winning field goal to end the Saints perfect season. With 1:52 left Washington kicker Shaun Suisham got set for the go ahead score. Somehow some way the kick went wide right and there was life left for New Orleans. It took all of 33 seconds for them to tie the score and send the game into overtime. So at the 8:31 mark little known Garrett Hartley won it with an 18-yard filed goal. Mind you that he had not kicked for this team until this day and finished with four field goals. So goes this story of destiny where the Saints find themselves almost invincible. Still, they better learn to stop the other team because they are showing that they can be beaten. That they are prone to give up points like the 30 they gave up. They also allowed the Redskins almost 500 yards of offense. So they better tighten up on defense and keep the circus in town with that offense if they hope to win the BIG ONE. Without that a great year will be for naught.
Philadelphia 34 Atlanta 7
It was one of those days where someone was coming back home, so to speak. Michael Vick was back and he had a little fun with his old team. He was able to get into a game that was out of hand and had a rushing and passing touchdown. They were his first since 2006 and they meant more to him than we will ever know. The game was all Philly especially with QB Matt Ryan and RB Michael Turner out for the Falcons. Without them they had only 103 yards as team rushing and Chris Redman could not make a difference. The Falcons are now 6-6 and find themselves in a wild-card hole two games behind these Eagles. It looks more and more like the playoffs are out of their hands now. The story was of course Vick and how he was treated in a town where he was once king. He was booed at first but was cheered by those that remain faithful to him. He was humble about the experience and just wants to get back to where he once was in this league. It may take awhile but so long as he does his part someone will give him a chance. The game was not too exciting but the Eagles know they have a lot to play for. The Falcons will now look to next year because without Ryan and Turner that is all they have. They have too many teams to catch up to now so it’s back to the drawing board.
Carolina 16 Tampa Bay 6
These two teams have lived and died by their quarterback play this year. For the Panthers it has been the saga of Jake Delhomme and his troubles. For the Bucs it has been a sneak peak at what the future may hold in Josh Freeman. With Delhomme out it was up to Matt Moore to pick up the slack but with his inexperience it would not be. He was 14-20 for 161 yards with a pick and 66 of those yards came on one play. So lack of offense would be a nice term for the Panthers except for the running of Jonathan Stewart. H had a career-high 26 carries to go with 120 yards and a touchdown. The only thing missing was the interception show we usually get from Delhomme. Enter Freeman to the rescue. It was amazing to see the Bucs get inside the Panthers 30 over and over only to come up with six points. The main reason was the generosity of Freeman who threw five picks as Delhomme watched from the sidelines. I am guessing he was really relieved it was not him throwing all those picks. Freeman finished with good stats if you take away the picks. He was 23-44 for a career-high 326 yards but could not avoid the big mistakes. At 1-11 the only question left in Tampa is will head coach Raheem Morris be one and done. The scene in Carolina remains the same, as they appear to have the talent and lay egg after egg year after year. It would appear that this is the end of the line for coach John Fox and his staff as well. It also looks like they may have had their last win of the year as the schedule ends rough. They have to go to New England next and then host the Vikings. After, it’s a trip to the New York Giants and they close at home against the mighty Saints who may be looking at 16-0 at that point. So as they say in sports when your season is shot…………. Wait till next year.
By Rafael Garcia
Sr. Contributing Writer Football Reporters Online
Southeast Region
New Orleans 33 Washington 30
See, now this is why they play the game. There are going to be times in a season when you find yourself behind. There will be times when your backs are up against the wall for some reason or another. The Saints faced that problem Sunday against a determined Redskin team that has nothing to play for now but pride. To top that off the Saints gave Washington all they needed and more to win this game. The Saints scored once when Drew Brees was intercepted, then wide receiver Robert Meachem stripped the ball and got it back. If that wasn’t enough Meachem went untouched into the end zone. Oh and then there was 0-4 in the red zone, which is almost unheard of for this team. They had a total of 55 yards rushing to go with seven penalties for 102 yards. Then, when they had come back, Washington set up for the winning field goal to end the Saints perfect season. With 1:52 left Washington kicker Shaun Suisham got set for the go ahead score. Somehow some way the kick went wide right and there was life left for New Orleans. It took all of 33 seconds for them to tie the score and send the game into overtime. So at the 8:31 mark little known Garrett Hartley won it with an 18-yard filed goal. Mind you that he had not kicked for this team until this day and finished with four field goals. So goes this story of destiny where the Saints find themselves almost invincible. Still, they better learn to stop the other team because they are showing that they can be beaten. That they are prone to give up points like the 30 they gave up. They also allowed the Redskins almost 500 yards of offense. So they better tighten up on defense and keep the circus in town with that offense if they hope to win the BIG ONE. Without that a great year will be for naught.
Philadelphia 34 Atlanta 7
It was one of those days where someone was coming back home, so to speak. Michael Vick was back and he had a little fun with his old team. He was able to get into a game that was out of hand and had a rushing and passing touchdown. They were his first since 2006 and they meant more to him than we will ever know. The game was all Philly especially with QB Matt Ryan and RB Michael Turner out for the Falcons. Without them they had only 103 yards as team rushing and Chris Redman could not make a difference. The Falcons are now 6-6 and find themselves in a wild-card hole two games behind these Eagles. It looks more and more like the playoffs are out of their hands now. The story was of course Vick and how he was treated in a town where he was once king. He was booed at first but was cheered by those that remain faithful to him. He was humble about the experience and just wants to get back to where he once was in this league. It may take awhile but so long as he does his part someone will give him a chance. The game was not too exciting but the Eagles know they have a lot to play for. The Falcons will now look to next year because without Ryan and Turner that is all they have. They have too many teams to catch up to now so it’s back to the drawing board.
Carolina 16 Tampa Bay 6
These two teams have lived and died by their quarterback play this year. For the Panthers it has been the saga of Jake Delhomme and his troubles. For the Bucs it has been a sneak peak at what the future may hold in Josh Freeman. With Delhomme out it was up to Matt Moore to pick up the slack but with his inexperience it would not be. He was 14-20 for 161 yards with a pick and 66 of those yards came on one play. So lack of offense would be a nice term for the Panthers except for the running of Jonathan Stewart. H had a career-high 26 carries to go with 120 yards and a touchdown. The only thing missing was the interception show we usually get from Delhomme. Enter Freeman to the rescue. It was amazing to see the Bucs get inside the Panthers 30 over and over only to come up with six points. The main reason was the generosity of Freeman who threw five picks as Delhomme watched from the sidelines. I am guessing he was really relieved it was not him throwing all those picks. Freeman finished with good stats if you take away the picks. He was 23-44 for a career-high 326 yards but could not avoid the big mistakes. At 1-11 the only question left in Tampa is will head coach Raheem Morris be one and done. The scene in Carolina remains the same, as they appear to have the talent and lay egg after egg year after year. It would appear that this is the end of the line for coach John Fox and his staff as well. It also looks like they may have had their last win of the year as the schedule ends rough. They have to go to New England next and then host the Vikings. After, it’s a trip to the New York Giants and they close at home against the mighty Saints who may be looking at 16-0 at that point. So as they say in sports when your season is shot…………. Wait till next year.
FOOTBALL TALK-What to make of Week 13
FOOTBALL TALK-By David Ortega for Football Reporters Online
Looking under the hood of Week 13
Saints, Colts looking more one dimensional....
Even though both teams remain undefeated, one can not help but notice over the past couple of week how both teams have come dangerously close to seeing their perfect seasons end. One notable factor that might be of concern has been the teams lack of committment to the run. In the Saints last two games they are only averaging 84 yards on the ground compared to their season average of 142 yards. In those two games the Saints have passed for 775 net yards. The Colts are also not setting any ground game records averaging 92 yards on the ground over their last four, just a tick better than their 32nd ranked season average of 88 yards. In the same span the Colts are averaging 278 yards passing per game. One thing fantasy owners will note, these teams know where their strengths lie and figure to lean heavy as the post season approaches.
Chargers set to ride the rolling Rivers....
The Chargers have quietly crept up on the competition in the AFC and sitting at 9-3 in first place of the West, they have a great oppportunity to grab the number two seed in the post season. One of the major reasons for the Chargers surge and great success has been the play of quarterback Philip Rivers. Not only has Rivers led the Chargers to seven straight wins, but he's been passing among the elite as of late. In his last two starts he's passed for nearly 700 yards and thrown four touchdowns while completing over 73 percent of his passes. Just as impressive are his 14 touchdown passes and just three interceptions during the seven game win streak. With the number two seed in their grasp, expect the Chargers to ride Rivers hot hand right into the playoffs.
More fantasy Notes
When the Bills face the Chiefs on Sunday, one thing fantasy owners can expect to be missing is any kind of defense. For the Bills this could be a great opportunity for quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick to continue to earn the trust of his coaches by utilizing his playmaking receiver Terrell Owens. Over the past three games that Fitzpatrick has been the starter Owens has seen 28 targets and caught 17 passes. With the Chiefs 28th ranked pass defense next on the dockett, expect these two to improve those numbers.
A big key for the Chiefs in their matchup with the Bills will be to stay with the run. The Bills are ranked dead last against the run, so expect the Chiefs to feature a lot of running back Jamaal Charles. The Chiefs 2nd year back has one 100-yard rushing game this season, but he is averaging over 90 yards from scrimmage in his last three games. Even though he has yet to break out this season Charles is averaging nearly five yards a carry. The Bills defense allows nearly five yards a tote, so this could be a big week for Charles if the defense can keep things close.
Looking under the hood of Week 13
Saints, Colts looking more one dimensional....
Even though both teams remain undefeated, one can not help but notice over the past couple of week how both teams have come dangerously close to seeing their perfect seasons end. One notable factor that might be of concern has been the teams lack of committment to the run. In the Saints last two games they are only averaging 84 yards on the ground compared to their season average of 142 yards. In those two games the Saints have passed for 775 net yards. The Colts are also not setting any ground game records averaging 92 yards on the ground over their last four, just a tick better than their 32nd ranked season average of 88 yards. In the same span the Colts are averaging 278 yards passing per game. One thing fantasy owners will note, these teams know where their strengths lie and figure to lean heavy as the post season approaches.
Chargers set to ride the rolling Rivers....
The Chargers have quietly crept up on the competition in the AFC and sitting at 9-3 in first place of the West, they have a great oppportunity to grab the number two seed in the post season. One of the major reasons for the Chargers surge and great success has been the play of quarterback Philip Rivers. Not only has Rivers led the Chargers to seven straight wins, but he's been passing among the elite as of late. In his last two starts he's passed for nearly 700 yards and thrown four touchdowns while completing over 73 percent of his passes. Just as impressive are his 14 touchdown passes and just three interceptions during the seven game win streak. With the number two seed in their grasp, expect the Chargers to ride Rivers hot hand right into the playoffs.
More fantasy Notes
When the Bills face the Chiefs on Sunday, one thing fantasy owners can expect to be missing is any kind of defense. For the Bills this could be a great opportunity for quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick to continue to earn the trust of his coaches by utilizing his playmaking receiver Terrell Owens. Over the past three games that Fitzpatrick has been the starter Owens has seen 28 targets and caught 17 passes. With the Chiefs 28th ranked pass defense next on the dockett, expect these two to improve those numbers.
A big key for the Chiefs in their matchup with the Bills will be to stay with the run. The Bills are ranked dead last against the run, so expect the Chiefs to feature a lot of running back Jamaal Charles. The Chiefs 2nd year back has one 100-yard rushing game this season, but he is averaging over 90 yards from scrimmage in his last three games. Even though he has yet to break out this season Charles is averaging nearly five yards a carry. The Bills defense allows nearly five yards a tote, so this could be a big week for Charles if the defense can keep things close.
Seven & Out – Week #13
Seven & Out – Week #13
By Michael – Louis Ingram Director of Scouting Services/Associate Editor Football Reporters Online
BASN/FRO
PHILADELPHIA (BASN/FRO) – We devote this issue of 7&Out to the Cincinnati Bengals; the NFL’s most improved team (and Tiger Woods’ unofficial favorite squad).
Cincy’s former Puddy Tats have some serious growl goin’ on, and are poised to win their division; but while Big Cats can maul you (as our favorite Cablinasian found out) a little pussy can REALLY hurt you!
Alright, new shooter comin’ out…
For the first time in NFL history, there are two 12-0 teams in the same season. The INDIANAPOLIS COLTS, who clinched the AFC South last week, improved to 12-0 with a 27-17 win over Tennessee. The NEW ORLEANS SAINTS reached the 12-0 mark for the first time in franchise history with a 33-30 overtime victory at Washington. With the win, New Orleans also clinched the NFC South.
(This is one time when the South should rise, according to the talent of the aforementioned teams).
The Colts have now won 21 consecutive regular-season games, tying the 2006-08 New England Patriots for the longest streak in NFL history.
(But don’t mention that head coach who’s responsible for it. Jim Caldwell is Coach of the Year – or you can get rid of the fucking award – forever).
Minnesota quarterback BRETT FAVRE has now played in 283 consecutive regular-season games, passing Vikings legend JIM MARSHALL for the longest consecutive game streak in NFL history by a non-kicker/punter. New York Giants punter JEFF FEAGLES has played in an NFL-record 348 consecutive regular-season games, including today’s 31-24 win over Dallas.
(And as the League gets a collective hard-on behind this, why isn’t Jim Marshall in the Pro Football Hall of Fame?)
The CINCINNATI BENGALS improved to 9-3 with a 23-13 win over Detroit. The Bengals’ nine victories are an eight-win improvement over last season (1-10-1) through the first 12 games. Cincinnati is tied with the 1963 Oakland Raiders (0-12 in 1962; 8-4 in 1963) and the 1999 Indianapolis Colts (2-10 in 1998; 10-2 in 1999) for the best win improvement through 12 games from one season to the next in NFL history.
(I did! I did see a Puddy Tat!!! Bengals have earned their stripes).
Indianapolis quarterback PEYTON MANNING threw for 270 yards and one touchdown in the Colts’ 27-17 win against Tennessee. Manning has 3,685 passing yards and 25 touchdowns this season. He is the first player all-time to pass for at least 3,500 yards in 12 consecutive seasons and is also the first player in NFL history to throw at least 25 touchdown passes in 12 seasons in a row.
(In or out of Peyton’s Place, Manning is a joy to watch; and Drew Brees couldn’t carry his left testicle).
Tennessee running back CHRIS JOHNSON rushed for 113 yards in a 27-17 loss against Indianapolis. Johnson leads the NFL with 1,509 rushing yards and became only the fifth player in NFL history to rush for 1,500 yards in his team’s first 12 games. He joins Pro Football Hall of Famers JIM BROWN, WALTER PAYTON and O.J. SIMPSON and former Denver running back TERRELL DAVIS as the only players to accomplish the feat.
(Now those are REAL yards – see how many tailbacks show up with 1500 after 14 games and you’ll see what I’m talkin’ about).
San Diego running back LA DAINIAN TOMLINSON rushed for a touchdown in the Chargers’ 30-23 win against Cleveland. Tomlinson, who has scored 150 total touchdowns (135 rushing, 15 receiving) in 137 career games, is the fastest player in NFL history to reach 150 total TDs. Tomlinson joinedJERRY RICE and EMMITT SMITH as the only players to score 150 career touchdowns...
(In spite of his front office’s efforts to further disrespect him. LT, that’s the way to tell A.J. Smith to kiss dat black azz).
Tomlinson rushed for 64 yards against the Browns and has 12,321 career rushing yards. He passed MARSHALL FAULK (12,279) and Pro Football Hall of Famer JIM BROWN (12,312) to move into eighth place all-time.
(Hopefully L.T. will be moving on to an organization that actually appreciates him).
New England wide receiver RANDY MOSS had 66 receiving yards in the Patriots’ 22-21 loss at Miami. Moss has 1,058 receiving yards this year and joined JERRY RICE (14) as the only players in NFL history to record 10 1,000-yard seasons.
(A modicum of consistency, skill and talent; imagine what numbers he really could’ve put up if Oakland had a team when he played there!)
And as always, once the point is established, roll a seven – you’re gonna crap out!
mike@footballreportersonline.com
By Michael – Louis Ingram Director of Scouting Services/Associate Editor Football Reporters Online
BASN/FRO
PHILADELPHIA (BASN/FRO) – We devote this issue of 7&Out to the Cincinnati Bengals; the NFL’s most improved team (and Tiger Woods’ unofficial favorite squad).
Cincy’s former Puddy Tats have some serious growl goin’ on, and are poised to win their division; but while Big Cats can maul you (as our favorite Cablinasian found out) a little pussy can REALLY hurt you!
Alright, new shooter comin’ out…
For the first time in NFL history, there are two 12-0 teams in the same season. The INDIANAPOLIS COLTS, who clinched the AFC South last week, improved to 12-0 with a 27-17 win over Tennessee. The NEW ORLEANS SAINTS reached the 12-0 mark for the first time in franchise history with a 33-30 overtime victory at Washington. With the win, New Orleans also clinched the NFC South.
(This is one time when the South should rise, according to the talent of the aforementioned teams).
The Colts have now won 21 consecutive regular-season games, tying the 2006-08 New England Patriots for the longest streak in NFL history.
(But don’t mention that head coach who’s responsible for it. Jim Caldwell is Coach of the Year – or you can get rid of the fucking award – forever).
Minnesota quarterback BRETT FAVRE has now played in 283 consecutive regular-season games, passing Vikings legend JIM MARSHALL for the longest consecutive game streak in NFL history by a non-kicker/punter. New York Giants punter JEFF FEAGLES has played in an NFL-record 348 consecutive regular-season games, including today’s 31-24 win over Dallas.
(And as the League gets a collective hard-on behind this, why isn’t Jim Marshall in the Pro Football Hall of Fame?)
The CINCINNATI BENGALS improved to 9-3 with a 23-13 win over Detroit. The Bengals’ nine victories are an eight-win improvement over last season (1-10-1) through the first 12 games. Cincinnati is tied with the 1963 Oakland Raiders (0-12 in 1962; 8-4 in 1963) and the 1999 Indianapolis Colts (2-10 in 1998; 10-2 in 1999) for the best win improvement through 12 games from one season to the next in NFL history.
(I did! I did see a Puddy Tat!!! Bengals have earned their stripes).
Indianapolis quarterback PEYTON MANNING threw for 270 yards and one touchdown in the Colts’ 27-17 win against Tennessee. Manning has 3,685 passing yards and 25 touchdowns this season. He is the first player all-time to pass for at least 3,500 yards in 12 consecutive seasons and is also the first player in NFL history to throw at least 25 touchdown passes in 12 seasons in a row.
(In or out of Peyton’s Place, Manning is a joy to watch; and Drew Brees couldn’t carry his left testicle).
Tennessee running back CHRIS JOHNSON rushed for 113 yards in a 27-17 loss against Indianapolis. Johnson leads the NFL with 1,509 rushing yards and became only the fifth player in NFL history to rush for 1,500 yards in his team’s first 12 games. He joins Pro Football Hall of Famers JIM BROWN, WALTER PAYTON and O.J. SIMPSON and former Denver running back TERRELL DAVIS as the only players to accomplish the feat.
(Now those are REAL yards – see how many tailbacks show up with 1500 after 14 games and you’ll see what I’m talkin’ about).
San Diego running back LA DAINIAN TOMLINSON rushed for a touchdown in the Chargers’ 30-23 win against Cleveland. Tomlinson, who has scored 150 total touchdowns (135 rushing, 15 receiving) in 137 career games, is the fastest player in NFL history to reach 150 total TDs. Tomlinson joinedJERRY RICE and EMMITT SMITH as the only players to score 150 career touchdowns...
(In spite of his front office’s efforts to further disrespect him. LT, that’s the way to tell A.J. Smith to kiss dat black azz).
Tomlinson rushed for 64 yards against the Browns and has 12,321 career rushing yards. He passed MARSHALL FAULK (12,279) and Pro Football Hall of Famer JIM BROWN (12,312) to move into eighth place all-time.
(Hopefully L.T. will be moving on to an organization that actually appreciates him).
New England wide receiver RANDY MOSS had 66 receiving yards in the Patriots’ 22-21 loss at Miami. Moss has 1,058 receiving yards this year and joined JERRY RICE (14) as the only players in NFL history to record 10 1,000-yard seasons.
(A modicum of consistency, skill and talent; imagine what numbers he really could’ve put up if Oakland had a team when he played there!)
And as always, once the point is established, roll a seven – you’re gonna crap out!
mike@footballreportersonline.com
The Morning Huddle-a Look back at week 13
The Morning Huddle-By David Ortega for Football Reporters Online
What I saw in Week 13
Brees is too much for defenses....
When the chips are down and your backs against the wall, if you can call for help there's no one better to call than quarterback Drew Brees. With their perfect season on the line Brees pulled out all the stops and used every one of his weapons completing passes to seven different receivers. Brees passed for 419 yards, completing 35 of 49 passes and tossed two touchdowns to help the Saints remain undefeated.
Warner returns to form Sunday night....
Coming back from a concussion that sidelined him last week the Cardinal's quarterback Kurt Warner showed no ill-effects, but rather his old pro bowl form passing for 285 yards and tossing three touchdowns. With Warner back to his old self completing 22 of 32 passes including a couple of 30 yard touchdown throws to his favorite targets the Cards easily handed the Vikings their second loss of the season; perhaps a blueprint they will follow in the post season.
Jackson needs lots of help in St. Louis...
The Rams struggles on offense this season are well documented, but there's no question irregardless running back Steven Jackson keeps on trucking. On Sunday Jackson rushed for over 100 yards, it was his seventh time this season and the fifth time in his last six games. Jackson rankeds second in the league in rushing with 1,232 yards this season, but only four touchdowns.
10 Things I Remember
Week 13
1. The Falcons have just two reliable pass catchers, White and Gonzalez. The two combined for 17 receptions and 176 yards on Sunday.
2. Jonathan Stewart is a capable ball carrier when he has the opportunity. Starting in place of the injured DeAngelo Williams he rushed for 120 yards with a score.
3. Philip Rivers is playing like an elite quarterback. On Sunday Rivers passed for 373 yards and tossed two touchdowns.
4. The Bengals have a top tier running back with Cedric Benson; in Week 13 he carried the ball 36 times for 110 yards.
5. The Jets running back Thomas Jones not looking done yet rushing for 109 yards on 23 carries against the Bills.
6. The Saints have another explosive weapon with wide receiver Robert Meachem; eight catches for 142 yards and a two touchdowns.
7. Quietly Brandon Marshall is working his way back to fantasy relevance. On Sunday he caught seven passes for 94 yards with a touchdown.
8. The Raiders rookie receiver Louis Murphy has possibly given fans something to cheer about; four catches for 128 yards and two touchdowns.
9. The Colts have another weapon of their own with wide receiver Pierre Garcon; six catches for 136 yards receiving.
10. Despite the December gloom, the Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo threw the ball well passing for nearly 400 yards with three touchdowns.
What I saw in Week 13
Brees is too much for defenses....
When the chips are down and your backs against the wall, if you can call for help there's no one better to call than quarterback Drew Brees. With their perfect season on the line Brees pulled out all the stops and used every one of his weapons completing passes to seven different receivers. Brees passed for 419 yards, completing 35 of 49 passes and tossed two touchdowns to help the Saints remain undefeated.
Warner returns to form Sunday night....
Coming back from a concussion that sidelined him last week the Cardinal's quarterback Kurt Warner showed no ill-effects, but rather his old pro bowl form passing for 285 yards and tossing three touchdowns. With Warner back to his old self completing 22 of 32 passes including a couple of 30 yard touchdown throws to his favorite targets the Cards easily handed the Vikings their second loss of the season; perhaps a blueprint they will follow in the post season.
Jackson needs lots of help in St. Louis...
The Rams struggles on offense this season are well documented, but there's no question irregardless running back Steven Jackson keeps on trucking. On Sunday Jackson rushed for over 100 yards, it was his seventh time this season and the fifth time in his last six games. Jackson rankeds second in the league in rushing with 1,232 yards this season, but only four touchdowns.
10 Things I Remember
Week 13
1. The Falcons have just two reliable pass catchers, White and Gonzalez. The two combined for 17 receptions and 176 yards on Sunday.
2. Jonathan Stewart is a capable ball carrier when he has the opportunity. Starting in place of the injured DeAngelo Williams he rushed for 120 yards with a score.
3. Philip Rivers is playing like an elite quarterback. On Sunday Rivers passed for 373 yards and tossed two touchdowns.
4. The Bengals have a top tier running back with Cedric Benson; in Week 13 he carried the ball 36 times for 110 yards.
5. The Jets running back Thomas Jones not looking done yet rushing for 109 yards on 23 carries against the Bills.
6. The Saints have another explosive weapon with wide receiver Robert Meachem; eight catches for 142 yards and a two touchdowns.
7. Quietly Brandon Marshall is working his way back to fantasy relevance. On Sunday he caught seven passes for 94 yards with a touchdown.
8. The Raiders rookie receiver Louis Murphy has possibly given fans something to cheer about; four catches for 128 yards and two touchdowns.
9. The Colts have another weapon of their own with wide receiver Pierre Garcon; six catches for 136 yards receiving.
10. Despite the December gloom, the Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo threw the ball well passing for nearly 400 yards with three touchdowns.
