The Fantasy Football Girl

League: The End Zone Divas
Stats: 10 Team Standard ESPN Scoring, 16 Round Snake Draft

Draft Results (Mandatory Auto-Draft):
Round: 1
(10) Aaron Rodgers QB
Round: 2
(11) Randy Moss WR
Round: 3
(30) Jamaal Charles RB
Round: 4
(31) Pierre Thomas RB
Round: 5
(50) Michael Crabtree WR
Round: 6
(51) Brandon Jacobs RB
Round: 7
(70) Hakeem Nicks WR
Round: 8
(71) Pierre Garcon WR
Round: 9
(90) Eli Manning QB
Round: 10
(91) Santonio Holmes WR
Round: 11
(110) Cowboys D/ST D/ST
Round: 12
(111) Kenny Britt WR
Round: 13
(130) Kevin Smith RB
Round: 14
(131) Marshawn Lynch RB
Round: 15
(150) Heath Miller TE
Round: 16
(151) Matt Prater K

My ORIGINAL Team (in starting order):
Aaron Rodgers QB
Jamaal Charles RB
Pierre Thomas RB
Brandon Jacobs RB (Flex)
Randy Moss WR
Michael Crabtree WR
Heath Miller TE
Cowboys D/ST D/ST
Matt Prater K

BENCH:
*Eli Manning QB
Kevin Smith RB
Marshawn Lynch RB
Hakeem Nicks WR
Pierre Garcon WR
Santonio Holmes WR
*Kenny Britt WR

Trade proposed by me:
Eli Manning QB and Kenny Britt WR
… in exchange for …
Shonn Greene RB

My Team POST-TRADE (in starting order):
Aaron Rodgers QB
Shonn Greene RB
Jamaal Charles RB
Pierre Thomas RB (Flex)
Randy Moss WR
Michael Crabtree WR
Heath Miller TE
Cowboys D/ST D/ST
Matt Prater K

BENCH:
Brandon Jacobs RB
Kevin Smith RB
Marshawn Lynch RB
Hakeem Nicks WR
Pierre Garcon WR
Santonio Holmes WR
Mike Williams WR

Sometimes I wonder if the guy who said “Go big or go home, ” is sitting on his mom’s couch eating Fritos and quietly weeping into the latest edition of JUGZ. Other times, I wonder if he was the guy who “had a feeling” about Dwayne Bowe and drafted him in the third round last year. Regardless, the notion of high risk/high reward is both rampant and incredibly enticing. As a result, this time of year fantasy experts everywhere start coming up with their list of most likely long shots. In an effort not to be out done, I’ve uncovered a pair of sleeper wider receivers for your gambling pleasure.

Devin Aromashodu

For those of you who didn’t catch the last four games of the Bears ’09 season (and, really, why would you have bothered), it’s pronounced uh-ROME-uh-shuh-do. In those four aforementioned games, the third string WR (who sat out the first few weeks due to a quad injury) scored 4 touchdowns on 24 attempts and earned himself quite a bit praise from starting quarterback Jay Cutler.

Since then, Jerry Angelo has hired Mike Martz in the hopes of improving developing some semblance of an offense. Martz, who was the offensive coordinator in St. Louis when the Rams won Super Bowl XXXVI, is credited with having an aggressive, big play style offense that essentially emboldens the QB to pass like crazy. While Jay Cutler is certainly no Kurt Warner, any scheme that elevates the ball from the ground to the air is one that gives wide receivers more opportunities and thus more fantasy value.

Considering his rapport with Cutler and Martz’s pass heavy offense, Devin Aromashodu could very well go from third on the depth chart to first. His size (6’2″ and 201 lbs.) additionally tip the scales in his favor. While he may not be the fastest receiver on the team, he’s definitely the biggest. Given the massive hole in the Bears o-line, Cutler is going to need a nice big target to lob the ball at before getting prematurely sacked. With Earl Bennett recovering from knee surgery and Devin Hester being used more as a slot receiver, Aromashodu is in line to become the Bears best deep ball threat. Undoubtedly, there are a lot of question marks surrounding this wide receiver with the hard to pronounce last name. Those question marks, however, keep him cheap and give you the chance to own a piece of breakout glory.

Mike Williams

Back in May I blogged about Tampa Bay’s fourth round pick, siting his checkered past, huge talent, and burgeoning potential. I advised would-be fantasy owners to track his progress in the off season and keep an eye on the Buc‘s depth chart. I’m happy to report that even if you spent the last 3+ months charting Heidi Montag‘s cosmetic surgeries instead of gathering research for your 2010 fantasy team, I have been hard at work, dutifully watching preseason games and tweeting with other unhealthily obsessed FF enthusiasts.

It seems the former Organgeman is on the road to redemption and making the most of training camp. In the Buc’s preseason opener against the Dolphins, Williams only had one reception for 30 yards, but it was enough for Head Coach Raheem Morris who called the grab “awesome.” In week 2 of the preseason, Williams upped the ante and snagged three passes for 44 yards in Tampa Bay’s win over Kansas City. While it may not seem like much, according to the St. Petersburg Times Coach Morris appears thrilled with the rookie’s growth stating, “Mike Williams had a dynamic offseason. He’s come in, he’s done everything we’ve asked. He’s been one of the guys who has caught the ball, he’s stood out and he’s been standing out since he’s been here.”

At age 23, this soon to be starting WR, has a long future ahead of him. Assuming he can stay focused and out of trouble, there’s no reason to believe he won’t end up a top 15 receiver. Heck, if he had Romo under center instead of Freeman, I’d call him the next Miles Austin. Before you go betting the farm on #19, however, remember that this investment has a ceiling… albeit a high one.

Well… here we go. Having talked about running backs for the past few entries, it’s time to give the boys on the outside some attention. Assuming the top 10 WRs are fairly obvious, I’ve gone ahead and given you my top 20. Feel free to comment, disagree, and discuss!

#1) Andre Johnson

As much as I don’t like to agree with everyone else, this one’s a no-brainer. As if posting back-to-back 100-reception, 1,500-yard seasons wasn’t proof enough, Johnson scored a 44 yard TD in the first 8 minutes of the Texans vs. Cardinals pre-season opener. Additionally, he’s a nice guy who gives back to the community and prefers to address his critics on the field rather than his Twitter stream. So what’s not to love? Absolutely nothing.

#2) Reggie Wayne

Wayne makes the top of my list because he’s drama free. He’s caught for 1,000 yards every year since 2004 (scoring TDs in the double digits for three of those years), maintains a fantastic rapport with an uber stud QB, and has managed to stay relatively injury free. For Heaven’s sake, he’s more consistent than my ex’s drunk texts on New Year’s Eve… and that’s saying a LOT.

#3) Larry Fitzgerald

Warner or no Warner, Fitzgerald’s athleticism can’t be denied. While his stats opposite Leinart aren’t great, he’s still got baby soft hands and a leaping ability that rivals even Baryshnikov. Without Boldin in AZ to draw coverage and a QB whose accuracy is less than stellar, the Pro Bowl MVP has his work cut out for him. Luckily, he’s up for the challenge.

Update: With Team Leinart vs Team Anderson throwing down, I’d move LFitz down a few notches. He’s definitely among the Top 10 WRs, but be sure not to overpay. A few weeks ago I saw him going late in the first round/beginning of the second, I now think he’s more of an early third round pick.

#4) Randy Moss

Many things can be said of Randy Moss… that he’s humble and broke aren’t two of them. This year the former bad boy is entering a contract year. While critics will raise an eyebrow at his age (a whopping 33 years old), his ego in tandem with his love of gold chains and designer shoes leads me to believe he’ll be kicking ass at 43 if it means taking home a giant pay check. Last season he silenced doubters by amping up his production and scoring 13 TDs. While I don’t think he’ll have the fantasy windfall that was the 2007 season, I still think he’s an elite WR1.

#5) Calvin Johnson

In 2008 Calvin Johnson earned the nickname Megatron. In 2009 he played like a GoBot. Arguably the Lions only offensive weapon, Johnson got a beating from opposing defenses and suffered a host of injuries as a result. With Nate Burleson to draw coverage and Jahvid Best backing up Kevin Smith, the defense should be a bit more spread out. As long as the former Ramblin’ Wreck can stay healthy and Matt Stafford‘s arm stays huge, there’s no reason Johnson can’t resume Decepticon status.

#6) Roddy White

Year after year, White continues to shine as the Falcons premier guy on the outside. Even with Matt Ryan‘s sophomore slump, he had 85 receptions 1,153 yards and scored a career high 11 TDs last season. There’s no reason to believe that White won’t be able to improve on those numbers even more this year. With The Burner in the backfield, veteran TE Tony Gonzalez in the middle, and a more assured Ryan in the pocket, White will be drawing single coverage and catching more consistent lobs from his QB. He may not have the freakish skills of Johnson or Fitzgerald, but he’s solid WR1 option.

#7) Brandon Marshall

Back in April I ranked Marshall at No. 7… and I’m sticking to my guns. Less like a Beast and more like an effing roller coaster, the former Bronco’s formidable talent in combination with his lack of common sense has often resulted in a season full of awesome highs and head-shaking lows. Hopefully some micro-managing and guidance on the part of Sparano and Parcells will help #19 beef up his stats and not his rap sheet. That being said, don’t hold your breath. It’s Marshall’s lack of consistency that keeps him out of to my Top 5. This one, however, I wouldn’t mind being wrong about.

#8) Miles Austin

Undoubtedly last season’s breakout fantasy star, Austin got more love from Romo than both Carrie Underwood and Jessica Simpson combined. He finished out the season with 81 receptions for 1,320 yards and 11TDs. After a showing like that most everyone is expecting big things from this equally big kid. The only issue seems to be Dez Bryant. While one could argue that the rookie WR will add to Austin’s appeal by pulling coverage, I’m a bit more skeptical. Jerry Jones‘ love for newbie has me concerned. Whether or not he’s ready for the big show, Mr. Jones doesn’t like playing the fool, which might mean Bryant is pushed up the ranks without being properly vetted (I’ll spare you any Sarah Palin jokes here). However if Austin can stay focused, continue to muscle his way into big plays, and hang on to the affection of an otherwise fickle QB then his placement as a Top 10 receiver should stick.

#9) DeSean Jackson

What #10 lacks in size he makes up for in speed. A true deep ball threat, Jackson found the end zone 11 times (9 receiving TDs, 1 rushing TD, and 2 punt returns) and ended his sophomore season with 1,156 yards receiving. That’s great and all, but he only had 62 receptions for the whole year. Of course that makes his YPR average huge, but it also makes his week to week consistency a total guessing game. Additionally without McNabb around to play the part of the wise and grizzled veteran, I’m a bit worried that Jackson might revert back to his less than focused/premature ball spiking ways. If you’re able to draft a consistent RB or QB then this third year WR is a fine starting option. If you’re in a PPR league, however, consider waiting a bit to jump on this small but mighty bandwagon.

#10) Greg Jennings

I’ll admit it was a struggle to rank Jennings in my Top 10. After a fairly impressive 2008 season (80 receptions, 1,292 yards, 9 TDs), I expected big things from #85 in ’09. In fact, I drafted him in one of my leagues last year… and was consequently very disappointed. While he racked up 1,113 receiving yards, he struggled for the bulk of the season and ultimately only scored 4 TDs. However as the season progressed and the playoffs began, Jennings seemed to turn it around and get his mojo back. Hopefully, he’ll begin this season where he left off last year. If you’ve got a solid running core then Jennings is a safe bet. If you’re hoping for him to be your lead guy, on the other hand, you’d better dig deeper.

#11) Marques Colston

Drew Brees‘s arm + Marques Colston’s hands = a fantasy owner’s wet dream… and a real life offense with potential
Drew Brees’s arms + Marques Coslton’s hands + Robert Meachem‘s size + Devery Henderson‘s speed + Reggie Bush‘s versatility + Lance Moore‘s mere existence = an offense’s wet dream… and a fantasy owner’s real life nightmare.

Bottom line: Colston is great, but so is the rest of his team. Brees’s egalitarian approach to ball management prevents this starting WR from achieving elite status.

#12) Steve Smith

Since his monster 2005 season, the Original Steve Smith has averaged 6-8 TDs per year. In 2009, he managed 7 TDs but fell short of 1,000 receiving yards (he finished with 982). Some analysts are concerned that those numbers might drop even more now that vet Jake Delhomme is out of the picture. I don’t know how those people can call themselves analysts. Moore and Clausen may be wet behind the ears, but almost anything is better than The Interception Artist, Mr. Jay Cutler Jake Delhomme. Furthermore, Smith and Moore showed great chemistry at the end of last season. I expect now that Smith is top dawg he’ll step up and shine. That being said, don’t expect the elite WR of years gone by. Think of him as a solid WR2 option.

#13) Steve Smith (NYG)

Eli Manning‘s most targeted receiver, Smith caught an impressive 107 passes for a less impressive 1,220 yards and scored a respectable 7 TDs last season. In PPR leagues “the other” Steve Smith is a dynamite option. In traditional non-PPR leagues, however, he’s a bit more middle of the road. While he definitely gets a lot of looks, he has yet to become a real deep ball threat. At only 25 years old, though, he’s got great upside. Look for SS2 to make good on – and possibly surpass – last year’s numbers.

#14) Anquan Boldin

Boldin is, without a doubt, one of the hardest working and toughest receivers in the league. Unfortunately, his bad ass status has come at the expense of his durability. If you draft Boldin, know that he’ll probably get injured and begrudgingly ride the bench for at least 2 or 3 games. Now in Baltimore, he’ll step out of Larry Fitzgerald’s shadow and take the lead WR position. He’ll also be moving from a pass happy offense to a more run focused scheme. Ultimately, his presence will do more for the Ravens then it will for your fantasy team. Consider #81 a good WR2 option who’s fun to both watch and cheer for.

#15) Chad OchoCino

Ochocinco is a player whose fame has eclipsed his skill, which means he’ll probably be drafted higher than he should. As I said in my video blog, I’m thrilled to watch the dynamic duo pairing of T.O. and Ochocino, but I’d prefer not to place money on either of their fantasy statuses. While it’s true that #85 has never been much of a deep ball threat (presumably that’s OchoUNO’s job now), he did score nine TDs last season. If you simply must have him on your team, understand that fantasy-wise he’s much more of an Alfred Pennyworth than a Bruce Wayne.

#16) Sidney Rice

Between Rice’s hip, Harvin‘s headaches, and Berrian‘s showing in ’09, Papa Favre‘s options are limited. Rice was certainly the veteran QB’s favorite go-to target last season, but a lingering hip injury could prevent him from playing up to his full potential this year. At age 24, youth is certainly on his side, but I still don’t think he’ll match last year’s stats. Be sure to monitor his health and your expectations before drafting this former breakout.

Update: Numerous media outlets are reporting that Sidney Rice has decided to undergo hip surgery after all. He’s expected to be out until the middle of the season. While I think he’ll recover quickly, look for Harvin and Berrian to go up in value.

#17) Wes Welker

He’s baaaacccck! Welker may have torn his ACL seven months ago, but in Thursday’s preseason game against the Falcons he brought new meaning to the phrase speedy recovery. While he might go easy the first few weeks of the season, I expect he’ll start racking up receptions in no time at all. Last season, this cutie from OK caught the ball a whopping 123 times for 1,348 yards and scored four times. What he lacked in TDs, he more than made up for in number of receptions. In PPR leagues, Welker’s value is obviously higher. In standard formats, look for him to produce anywhere from 8 – 20+points on a weekly basis.

#18) Michael Crabtree

Possibly last year’s most obnoxious hold out, Crabtree put his money where his mouth was and showed up for the last 11 games of the season. He was certainly unsteady and lacking in confidence at times, but that’s to be expected when a rookie attempts to learn the playbook in roughly 48 hours. I’ve ranked him in my Top 20 because of his huge upside. Sure he’s got Alex Smith for a QB and a coach who prefers the ground attack, but that doesn’t mean he can’t produce… it just means he probably won’t produce monster numbers. Calculate accordingly and be thankful you paid way less than the York Family.

#19) Hines Ward

He may not be a flashy pick, but he’s certainly a reliable one. Since 2006, Ward has averaged close to 1,000 yards and 6 or 7 TDs per season. With Santonio Holmes playing for the Jets, the 34 year old WR will step up and take the lead ahead of newbie Mike Wallace. While that’s a definite plus, his age remains an obvious minus. All in all, expect this 2 time Super Bowl Champ to do close to what he did last year… and the year before that… and the year before that…

#20) Hakeem Nicks

Smith may get most of the looks, but Nicks is going to get the deep balls. After sitting out the first few weeks of his rookie season with a foot sprain, the North Carolina native returned in week four with one reception that resulted in a 54 yard touchdown. What a way to make a splash. He was sporadic throughout the year, but illustrated definite play making potential, catching 47 passes for 790 yards and scoring six times. With Eli Manning so pass happy (4,021 yards on 509 attempts in ’09), there’s no reason to assume Nicks can’t develop into the down field threat that the Giants have been desperate to find.

This preseason, FF analysts and enthusiasts have uttered the words “workhorse” and “committee” more often than Rex Ryan cursed on Wednesday night’s premier of Hard Knocks. We get it. There are only 11 workhorse RBs and tons more committees. So what’s a fantasy owner to do once those 11 RBs are off the board? Well, rather than ranking the next 14 backs (totaling the top 25), I thought it would be helpful to rank the top 6 committees. Teams with a tendency towards rushing and more clearly defined leadership roles were ranked above those with softer backfields and questionable time share situations. Remember to keep draft strategy in mind when reading the below and devising your own rankings.

1. DeAngelo Williams / Jonathan Stewart – Carolina Panthers

Perhaps the other dynamic duo, this committee is a total power house. In 2009, Williams ran for 1,117 yards and scored 7 rushing touchdowns. Meanwhile, Stewart rushed for 16 more yards (on 5 more attempts) and scored 3 more TDs on the ground. Keeping in mind that Williams was out for three games at the end of the season with an ankle injury, those stats are virtually identical. In the same vein, both backs are coming off surgeries with plenty to prove. Williams is entering a contract year and Stewart would like doubters to believe his Achilles is finally healed. Take their identical stats/situations into account and throw in the Panthers’ beefy O-line, and you have two solid RB options.

2. Shonn Greene / LaDainian Tomlinson – New York Jets

Remember how (then rookie) Shonn Greene lit it up in the post-season last year? Well if you don’t, Thomas Jones sure does. In fact, it was Greene’s bruising deftness and stunning stats (54 carries for 304 yards plus two TDs in weeks 18-20) that sent TJ packing to Kansas City. While Shonn’s certainly a beast, he did spend much of his rookie year plagued by ankle and rib issues. That being said, the Jets O-line is the best in the league. If anyone can protect this mac truck-like back it’s Brian Schottenheimer‘s boys. Take into consideration the addition of LT as the new goal line back, and you’ve got the best of both worlds – rookie legs and veteran experience. If you can’t get to Greene fast enough, be sure not to overspend on Tomlinson. He’s a great back-up and if Greene goes down, you’re going to want the current #2 on your bench.

3. Jamaal Charles / Thomas Jones – Kansas City Chiefs

Charles may wear #25, but his lucky number is definitely nine. It was just after the Chiefs bye, in week 9, that this third year back showed up in a huge way. With Larry Johnson finally put out to pasture, the Texas native rushed for 1,004 yards on 167 carries and scored 8 touchdowns. This season, I expect his productivity to slow slightly with the addition of veteran back (and former Bear) Thomas Jones. One of the must underrated players in the league, Jones is an effing pimp who at 31 years old scored 14 times last season. In KC, he’ll undoubtedly become the featured 3rd down back and occasional change of pace to Charles, but don’t count this 11 season pro out. Together these two might just bring the noise back to Arrowhead Stadium.

4. Beanie Wells / Tim Hightower – Arizona Cardinals

To be honest, I’m on the fence about this committee. I know that everyone is saying that with Leinart at QB, the Cards will be forced to become a run happy team. For the most part, I agree with that assessment. However, I also think they’ll be coming from behind A LOT, which means Paris Hilton’s ex-boyfriend Warner‘s replacement is going to throw the ball more than most of us are expecting (whether anyone catches it is another story). Yet, Wells has so much potential on the ground and Hightower has such ability as a receiver that I have to place them near the middle of my top 6 RB committees. Ultimately, I wouldn’t draft Wells amongst the top 15 RBs (after that though GO FOR IT), but if you can snag Hightower in the second half of the draft it might might prove to be a wise investment. Remember even if you don’t start him, it’s better to have him on your bench than anyone else’s.

5. Pierre Thomas / Reggie Bush – New Orleans Saints

We’ve all heard how too many cooks in the kitchen can ruin a dish. Well too many offensive weapons on a single team can seriously eff up your fantasy season. The reigning Super Bowl champs are definitely that team. With a glut of solid WRs, a top 3 QB, and an explosive backfield, the play-making options are huge for the Saints. Fantasy-wise, however, it’s tough to rack up points with so many opportunities being divvied up amongst an endless array of talent. That being said, both Thomas and Bush scored eight TDs a piece last season. Thomas’s rushing stats were obviously higher, while Bush excelled in the air. Now that Mike Bell has been dealt to Philly and replacement Lynell Hamilton is likely out for the season with a torn ACL, the Saints backfield doesn’t seem quite as crowded. The bottom line is that both players should prove to be solid back-ups with Thomas having slightly more upside.

6. Ronnie Brown / Ricky Williams – Miami Dolphins

Someone once said, “History is destined to repeat itself.” If you believe that… then Ronnie Brown is likely to get hurt and Ricky Williams will probably go crazy. While I’m less sure of Brown’s ability to stay healthy than Williams’ sanity, I do think both players have potential based on some of the changes Miami has made. With Brandon Marshall on the outside and Chad Henne more comfortable in the pocket, the run game should open up a bit. Moreover, the Dolphins have a tight offensive line, which could certainly add a little cushion to the pushin’ that both backs are bound to feel. If 2010 proves to be the year the pattern is broken, expect both players to get a decent amount of touches and opportunities. Then again… don’t hold your breath.

Main Entry: running back
Function: noun
Date: 1924
Definition via Merriam-Webster: a football back (as a halfback or fullback) who carries the ball on running plays

Main Entry: workhorse
Function: noun
Date: 1543
Definition via Merriam-Webester: (1) a person who performs most of the work of a group task, (2) something that is markedly useful, durable, or dependable

Main Entry: Fantasy Football Champion
Function: Proper Noun
Date: 1962
Definition via The Fantasy Football Girl: a person who can identify and draft the league’s best Workhorse Running Back (unless they follow a genius draft strategy and outsmart everyone else) and play each match-up with strategy and finesse

So maybe it’s not that easy. Still, owning a Workhorse Running Back can certainly give your FF team an advantage. Since only 11 teams have a no-questions-asked-getting-nearly-all-of-the-touches-main-man, I’ve ranked the Top 11 Stud RBs below.

#1) Adrian Peterson

Big surprise, right? Well coming from me it should be. Last year I had him ranked at No. 5, which I will admit was low. That being said, he has yet to be the top fantasy earner for any year in which he’s played. On the other hand, he’s consistently been in the top 5, finishing just behind Chris Johnson by 617 rushing and 67 receiving yards last season. So yeah, the kid has proven that he can go All Day… and Each Season.

While his skill is undeniable, his position on the team also adds to his reliability. Chester Taylor‘s replacement, rookie Toby Gerhart, has some talent, but a playing style that’s very similar to AP’s. Furthermore, Gerhart isn’t built to be a third down back, which means All Day won’t have any competition and will also be forced to develop his receiving skills. Critics will point out his butterfingers, but I believe the Purple Jesus will rise to the occasion and continue to be a solid stud for the Vikings and fantasy teams.

#2) Maurice Jones-Drew

At 5’7″, MJD has proven that good things really do come in small packages. Last season, he actually improved his rushing stats by 562 yards and scored a whopping 16 touchdowns. He may be the only back who is actually getting better with age (somebody knock on wood… quick).

Truth be told, MJD is my favorite RB in the league. I love to watch him, root for him and win with him. He has both the heart and mind of a true champion. He may not be the biggest or fastest RB out there, but his will is certainly the strongest. Combine that with the fact that he’s an FF die-hard who often drafts himself on at least one team and you’ve got a recipe for success.

#3) Chris Johnson

He wasn’t dubbed Sonic The Hedgehog for nothing. Last season CJ rushed for over 2,000 yards, caught for 503 receiving yards, averaged a whopping 5.6 yards per carry, and scored an impressive 16 touchdowns. This time last year, No. 28 stated his goals very clearly – he wanted to be named MVP and rush for 2,000 yards. This season he’s aimed his sights even higher, saying that he hoped to break 2,500 rushing yards. With a new contract in place and LenDale White out of the picture, there’s no reason he won’t be able to pick up where he left off.

That being said, I’m a teeny tiny bit worried about his durability. Being a smaller guy and having come off such a huge season, I’m concerned that he might not have enough left in the tank for a second go around. Then again he’s only 24 years old and has plenty yet to prove. Either way, he’s a phenomenal pick… just make sure to manage your expectations accordingly.

#4) Frank Gore

Yes, I realize this isn’t 2006… but I still think Gore has one more monster campaign left in him. Even though he was out for two games last season with an ankle injury, the former Pro-Bowler still managed to score a career-high 13 touchdowns and rush for nearly 1,200 yards.

Now that the 49ers have addressed their largest deficiency by beefing up their O-line with two young – but certainly capable – linemen, Gore should be better protected… and therefore limping less often. Some consistency at QB would also be nice, but considering Samurai Mike‘s run-first coaching style, Gore is sure to get plenty of touches. Still, I’d advise Fantasy owners to insure their investment and handcuff Anthony Dixon to this lead RB.

#5) Rashard Mendenhall

Every cheat sheet needs a few surprises, right? I know that most analysts think I’m crazy for ranking Mendenhall so high, saying he’s unproven and fumble prone. And all of that may be true… but I think with Big Ben out for the first 4-6 weeks, Mike Tomlin and the Steelers are going to rely heavily on the ground attack and thus the former Illini as well.

Sure, the loss of Willie Colon hurts, but the addition of Flozell Adams should help solidify and strengthen the Steelers O-line. Additionally, Mendenhall is young enough (only 23) and perfectly sized (5’10″ and 225 lbs.) for the position and subsequent beating that most every-down backs take.

As with most things, however, there is a catch. You don’t want to hold on to Mendenhall for all 17 weeks. I think he’s going to be dynamite coming out of the gate, but start to dramatically trail off as the season progresses. My advice is to draft him early and sell him high – around week 5. It’s a gamble, but so is drafting anyone out of the top three.

#6) Ray Rice

He may not be the biggest, strongest, or fastest… but he’s certainly the most diverse. In a break-out sophomore season, Rice wowed fans and critics with his electric playing style and deft receiving ability. In the air, he led all running backs with 78 receptions for 702 yards. On the ground, he managed to stomp out 1,339 rushing yards. Plus he’s only 23 and totally adorable.

So why isn’t he in my top 5? Two words: Willis McGahee. The aging RB, who seems less like a Raven and more like a vulture, will be back for the 2010-11 season under a new $3.6 million contract and is expected to get most of the goal line carries. Ray-Ray definitely put up amazing stats last year, but he only scored 7 rushing touchdowns to McGahee’s 12. While I imagine the disparity in these numbers will even out a bit next season, fantasy owners should still remain practical about Rice’s reality rather than his potential.

#7) Steven Jackson

Would you rather be A) the star player on a losing team or B) the worst player on a winning team? Steven Jackson clearly went with Option A. On the upside, he’s a phenomenally talented player. On the downside, he plays for the St. Louis Rams.

Hopefully the addition of both Jason Smith and Jason Brown will provide this workhorse RB with better blocking and protection. On any other team, he’d be scoring TDs in the double digits. Last season, however, he could only cobble together a meager four. Regardless, while Spagnuolo tries to return on the $78 million investment that is Sam Bradford, Jackson should rack up plenty of touches. Just keep your fingers crossed that he can make it past the goal lines a few times without getting completely pummeled.

#8) Michael Turner

This time next year I hope to be calling No. 33 not only “The Burner,” but also “The Comeback Kid.” In 2009, he was on track for another statalicious season before suffering a high-ankle sprain in Week 10. That injury sidelined the former Pro Bowler for the bulk of six games and subsequently crushed fantasy dreams web-wide.

This season, however, Turner has been working out, slimming down, and getting back into tackle busting shape. In fact three months ago, Coach Mike Smith said the following about the 28 year old’s recovery: “I thought Michael looked very good. (There are ) no ill effects from the ankle. I thought he was putting his foot in the ground and cutting, and that was the big thing we wanted to make sure we saw, his ability to cut. I think he’s in great shape.”

Fortunately for Turner and unfortunately for fantasy owners, Coach Smith has also stated there will be “parameters” on how often Turner carries the ball this season. Obviously, the Falcons organization would like to keep this workhorse working and so he might have to share carries with Norwood and Snelling. Luckily, neither of those backs are a real threat to The Burner’s fantasy potential.

#9) Ryan Mathews

Whereas I think Mendenhall will start the season strong and peter off as the weeks progress, I believe Mathews will start slowly… but finish with a surprising amount of gusto. A life long fan of the Chargers and an LT devotee, Mathews is motivated to pick up where his idol left off.

The Chargers clearly don’t see Sproles as their every down back or they wouldn’t have traded up to get Mathews. However, I do think that Sproles will carry the stone more frequently early in the season as the rookie learns the ropes and routes. Once he’s comfortable though, I expect Coach Turner to let him loose, creating another weapon within the already solid SD offense. Mathews has everything from skill to strength of schedule in his favor. Fantasy owners only have to hope that he can learn as quickly as he can run.

#10) Ryan Grant

The best thing about owning Ryan Grant is that no one is nipping at his heels to be the main guy in Green Bay. The worst thing about owning Ryan Grant is that no one is nipping at his heels to be the main guy in Green Bay. It seems that Grant is consistent, but not exactly explosive. Perhaps if there were a hot rookie or a back with receiving potential, No. 25 might be a bit more motivated to move it.

That being said, he’s coming off of his most successful NFL campaign to date. In 2009, he averaged 4.4 yards per carry and scored 7 more rushing touchdowns than he did in 2008. With any luck those numbers will continue to improve. Grant is definitely a great RB2 for any fantasy team. Unlike Green Bay, however, I wouldn’t make him your main guy.

#11) Cedric Benson

Consider me a bitter Bears fan, but while I think Benson has talent, he’s completely devoid of hustle. For the record, I’d draft DeAngelo Williams (who is certain to share carries with Jonathan Stewart) over this douche-wad any day. Since he’s technically a workhorse, however, I’ll take my emotions out of it and slot him in at number 11.

Despite having an elite core of reality television stars wide receivers, Coach Lewis likes to keep the game on the ground. In fact, in 2009 the Bengals ran the ball 52 percent of the time. In that same season, Benson rushed for 1,251 and scored 6 TDs. That’s not bad considering he was sidelined for 3 games with a hip injury. Assuming he doesn’t puss out or get hurt, No. 32 is a solid pick late in the first round or very early in the second.

I don’t know about you, but I always hate this time of year. There’s nothing going on except weddings and arena football. Blah. Sure, there’s the MLB, but come on, who’s really paying attention before September? And, yes, I suppose if you’re under 18 any day between June 1st and September 1st is awesome. But for the rest of us… it’s a slow and monotonous countdown to September – which is when you underage sh*ts go back to school and we’re reminded of just why we spent so much money on a television set.

That’s right… it’s almost football season baby! Only six more weeks of waiting before the brat grilling, beer guzzling, and smack talking action begins. Between now and September 9th, however, it’s time to hit the stat sheets and brush up on a little something called Draft Strategy.

In previous years, the most widely accepted and agreed upon strategy was to, without a doubt, draft the best starting running backs available on the board as early as possible. Because many teams relied on a singular workhorse to advance their running game, these particular players also earned a ton of points for their respective fantasy teams. This ensured that nearly any RB worth his cleats would get picked up in the first and second rounds of most fantasy drafts. Well, that was then and this now.

I’m pretty sure Bob Dylan wasn’t talking about Fantasy Football when he penned “The Times They are A-Changing,” but man was he spot on. More and more teams are employing a Running Back By Committee (RBBC) style offense in which two backs share the workload. In fact, according to espn.com, last year seventeen teams had two RBs that both carried the ball at least 100 times each. Compare that to ten years prior in 2000, where only seven teams got the same stats using the time share rule. Obviously, when the number of touches a player gets is reduced by as much 50% then the number of points he can score for your fantasy team is also decreased. In short, it’s bad news for people who have a less than stellar draft number.

As of right now, there are only 11 teams that have a lone dynamo at RB: the Bengals, Chargers, Falcons, Jaguars, Packers, Rams, Ravens, Steelers, Titans, Vikings, and the 49ers. A standard FF league consists of 10 teams. Most of those teams play two RBs plus a possible Flex player each week. That means there are 20-30 slots available for only 11 stud RBs. So what’s a fantasy owner to do? Remember that your objective is to always get the best player for the best value and adjust accordingly.

In my opinion, there are six must-picks. Here they are ranked in order of most to least valuable: Adrian Peterson, Maurice Jones-Drew, Chris Johnson, Frank Gore, Rashard Mendenhall, and Ray Rice. I plan to explain my analysis and also rank the remaining 5 workhorses in a later post, but for now I want to simply focus on draft strategy. That being said, if one of the above is available while you’re drafting then you should absolutely scoop him up. If, however, you’re the eighth pick of your draft and the top six RBs are off the board then I don’t recommend reaching for one of the remaining five. Instead, grab an elite WR like Andre Johnson or Randy Moss and know that you got the best player for the value at the time. I understand that it’s scary to watch everyone else load up RBs, but remember it’s better to have a team that wins than one that looks good on paper.

To that end, most standard fantasy teams have 16 draftable positions and play nine of those slots (QB, WR, WR, RB, RB, TE, WR/RB/TE, DEF, K) while the bench (BN) is comprised of the remaining 7 players. In past seasons, FF analysts have advised using these bench spots to draft back-ups for your QBs… and maybe an extra TE for your bye week. While that reasoning seems sound, I’m going to strongly recommend that you use those spots to load up on RBs and WRs. There is such depth at TE that after the top three – Dallas Clark, Vernon Davis, Antonio Gates – it’s really a wash. Have faith that if your TE goes down or you need someone on a bye, the waiver wire will have plenty of decent options. Additionally, if you’re lucky enough to get one of the elite QBs – Drew Brees, Aaron Rodgers, Peyton Manning – then don’t bother backing him up. It’s very likely that in the case of either a bye week or (G*d forbid) an injury either Joe Flacco, Kevin Kolb, or Mark Sanchez will be an available and viable substitute.

While customizing your draft day cheat sheet, keep in mind that there are some really excellent RBs playing on two back committees. After all, the whole reason NFL teams began embracing the RBBC offense was so that they could preserve their investments and keep their players off of the IR. You need to do the same thing. It’s very likely that one of the two RBs on any of the top committees – DeAngelo Williams / Jonathan Stewart (Carolina Panthers), Beanie Wells / Tim Hightower (Arizona Cardinals), Shonn Greene / LaDainian Tomlinson (New York Jets), Ronnie Brown / Ricky Williams (Miami Dolphins), Jamaal Charles / Thomas Jones (Kansas City Chiefs) – will get hurt and thus create a surprise stud out of nowhere. Furthermore, owning as many decent RBs as possible only limits your opponents’ options. While this strategy may not have you on top at the beginning of the season, I guarantee it’ll be working by week 9. I also wouldn’t be stunned if, around that same time, you start receiving a litany of trade proposals.

All of that being said, have a good time and remember that this is supposed to be fun! If you’re a die-hard Bengals fan and want to draft Cedric Benson in the first round then do it. Don’t blame me when you lose, but know that you’ll be able to watch each game without having compromised your commitment to Cincinnati.

The next six weeks are going to fly by so be sure to stay tuned for more FF strategies!

The professional sports teams that a person roots for often says a great deal about them.  LeBron James, for instance, is a fan of the New York Yankees, Dallas Cowboys, and Chicago Bulls.  What do all of these teams have in common?  They’re popular and they win A LOT (or at least did while young James was growing up).  Is it that much of a surprise then that the Ohio native, who famously wore a Yankees cap to an Indians game, would choose winters in South Beach over sexual advances from Betty White?  Not really.  And can we blame him?  Again, I’m going with not really.

While I admit the hype and hoopla surrounding the “Decision” was ridiculous and overblown, it was also pretty damn inventive.  No, I didn’t think it was cool of LeBron to put the city of Cleveland on blast like that.  Yes, I think he should have opened by stating how much he appreciated his time in Cleveland and how he’d always be thankful for the Cavalier fans.  But let’s also remember that he donated all of the money he made from the hour long special to charity.  Some say it was a media stunt – and that’s probably true – but the Boys & Girls Club of America is still getting that dough regardless of LeBron’s motivations.  Besides, millions of rich folks donate money to charity so they can skimp on their taxes, and no one is hating on them.

Speaking of rich folks… Cavs owner Dan Gilbert posted an open letter to fans, stating that James had “deserted” and “betrayed” his team and by proxy his city.  He went on to personally “guarantee that the Cleveland Cavaliers [would] win an NBA Championship before the self-titled former ‘King’ [won] one.”  First of all, that would be awesome and I think sports fans everywhere would like to see it.  Secondly, em… good luck with that.  Cleveland couldn’t manage to build a team around The Chosen One after SEVEN years.  How then does Gilbert plan to make Mo Williams and “Z” Ilgauskas (who, by the way, was traded away and resigned as the result of a “business decision”) the heart of a championship franchise?  Come on!  If anything, Gilbert’s comments make James an empathetic character.  As Jacob Simpson very astutely put it in his most recent blog on Bleacher Report, “… never in my life have I seen a billionaire try to paint himself as a victim like Daniel Gilbert did in his ridiculous letter. Before writing that letter, I’m sure Gilbert counted all the money LeBron had made for his franchise last year.” 

Before I start getting tons of hate mail, let me say that I feel for Cavs fans.  I really do.  Between the Indians, the Browns, and now the Cavs… it sucks to be you (and that’s coming from a Cubs fan).  You have every right in the world to be angry, crushed, and heartbroken,  But business is business.  LeBron James changed the game, momentarily taking the power away from the league and giving it to the players.  I think that’s pretty damn smart. Here’s a 25-year old kid with nothing more than a high school diploma (and a wickedly brilliant agent) outdoing and manipulating some of the richest and most powerful people in the nation.  Bra-effing-vo.

Ultimately, I think people are more disenchanted than upset by this whole episode.  It’s like we’ve all just seen the little man behind the curtain and can’t believe that we were played like puppets.  After all, for most people, professional sports is about “rooting for the home team” and “fan loyalty” and “community.”  It’s about supporting your favorite player by wearing his/her jersey or reminiscing about where you were when that idiot ref made that idiot call.  Unfortunately, we often forget (and for good reason) that it’s also about dollars and cents.

I believe that LeBron – who has “Akron” and “330″ tattooed on his lower right arm – still has love for his hometown and the people of Cleveland.  Sadly, however, sometimes love just isn’t enough.

I have a confession to make… I’ve been cheating on the NFL with the NHL. That’s right, I traded the gridiron for a barn, pigskin for biscuits, and a super bowl for a fantastic cup (only during the off-season, obviously).

And can you really blame me? For the first time since 1992, the Chicago Blackhawks made it to the Stanley Cup Finals. And for the first time since 1961 (that’s 49 years people), the Hawks skated to victory – bringing Lord Stanley’s cup back to Chicago! I get all emo every time I think of it. *Sigh*

I know some of you – especially if you’re from Philly – are rolling your eyes and thinking I’m all “bandwagon.” Well that’s simply not true. As stated in a previous post, I was a competitive figure skater growing up, which meant I spent the bulk of my formative years making out sharing ice time with all of the hockey players. Actually if I did the math, I bet I’ve watched more amateur hockey games than football and baseball games put together.

Let’s also remember that the late Bill Wirtz (remind me again why it’s frowned upon to speak ill of the dead) not only jacked up ticket prices, but also refused to televise Blackhawks’ games for much of the 90′s and early 2000′s. During those years I – along with most Chicago hockey fans – became Wolves supporters. Their games were televised, the tickets were cheap, and they played like effing animals. It was awesome. In fact, I still have a Skates The Wolf nightshirt that I wear to bed on occasion.

After moving to Los Angeles, I tried to keep track of both the Hawks and the Wolves, but it was damn near impossible. First of all, Los Angeles doesn’t have an AHL team… of course. Secondly, until 2007 I didn’t have the cash for cable, which often resulted in me wrapping both my television and my person with massive amounts of tin foil while hoping for the best. A friend once told me that my TV viewing habits reminded him of being 13 years old and craning his neck while watching a very scrambled Spice channel in the hopes of spotting an elusive nipple or girly part.

But I digress…

In 2005 – one year after ESPN named the Blackhawks the worst franchise in professional sports – I optimistically attended a Kings vs Hawks game at the Staples Center. Yeah, it sucked. Not just because the Hawks lost… by a lot… but because I was distracted by all of the “flash.” I kept wondering where the goons, and the muckers, and the real grinders had gone. I suppose I had been spoiled by all of those amateur hockey games after all. That was it. I gave up on being a professional hockey fan.

Then on New Year’s Day 2009, I made a resolution. I had heard that Rocky Wirtz was different than his old man. He seemed to be blazing new trails and extending an olive branch to disenfranchised Hawks fans. That day I sat in my mom’s basement and watched the Detroit Red Wings defeat the Blackhawks 6-4… at Wrigley Field. It was awesome. We might have lost, but the joy was back. A few days later, I returned to Los Angeles, wiped the dust off of my Hawks hat, and discovered Versus.

And so it is with great pride that I call myself a Blackhawks fan. The road has been bumpy, the new goal song is undeniably annoying, and I’m sure one of the Wirtz heirs will eff this up in due time… but right now all I can think of is the brand new Majestic Chicago Blackhawks 2010 Stanley Cup Champions Women’s Locker Room T-shirt that just arrived at my door.

Congratulations to the 2010 Stanley Cup Champion Chicago Blackhawks. THE ROAR IS BACK!

My friend Kayt is a girl who grew up in Philly fixing things with her dad. Now she’s all grown up and living in Los Angeles, repairing busted sh*t her own damn way.

A few weeks ago (before Donovan McNabb had been traded to the Skins), she came over to fix the recessed lighting in my house. Make no mistake, Kayt definitely knows her way around a tool belt, but her fantasy knowledge is less than stellar. Watch as we face off and drop a little football trivia along the way. Trust me, it’s a whole new kind of home improvement.