Just to confirm what I already believed...
cbssports.com reports... Bears general manager Jerry Angelo went into the draft adamant about creating more competition for Benson. "Until somebody proves that they're the guy," Angelo said, "we have to make sure that we create as much competition at that position. I felt like our running game obviously was one of the weak spots on our football team."
Saturday, May 31, 2008
A Carolina Resurgence?
I'm reading an awful lot about how Jake Delhomme is better, how the offense in Carolina was doing great until he was lost last year and how both Delhomme and Steve Smith look good in camp. The Panthers also picked up a first round running back in Jonathan Stewart to boost a running game and free agent WRs Muhsin Muhammed and DJ Hackett. FANTASY GOLD!! Really?
Delhomme put up 600 yards and 8 TDs in the first three games last year against 1 INT. Roughly, that was a pace for 3000+ yards and 40+ TDs with only 5 INTs. Unfortunately, those stats were against St. Louis, Houston and Atlanta - 25th, 26th, and 27th in the NFL against the pass. Clearly those numbers aren't to be expected from Delhomme across the whole season. In fact, he averaged ONLY 200 yards per game against those teams. That's a little troubling. Finally, Delhomme missed three games in 06 and put up only 2800 yards and 17 TDs. Delhomme was good fantasy QB in 04 and 05, but that was three years ago, he wasn't spectacular in 06 and he missed most of 07. How much stock do you want to put in Delhomme? He's a QB2 with some hope of being a good #1.
Steve Smith finished 07 with 1000 yards and 7 TDs, down from 1166 and 8 in 06. It's widely reported that Smith's production is suffering because Carolina lacks a decent WR2. They also don't have a serious threat at TE. To compensate, the Panthers added Hackett and Muhammed. One has a reputation for being injured and the other is 35 with far more sub-1000 yard seasons than 1000 yard seasons. Muhammed has been durable, however and his production totals the last three years are understandable given he was in Chicago. I'm optimistic that between Hackett and Muhammed, Steve Smith will be double and triple covered less often this year, increasing his stats.
I think the running game will improve this year. The team has added a lot of help on line and drafted a first round RB. Veteran Deangelo Williams has shown flashes of ability, but nothing to cause me to assume he'll keep rookie Stewart from having an opportunity to win the starting job. I like Stewart here to finish the season as RB1 in Carolina. Bear in mind that with an all-new line and a weak overall rushing attack last year, I'm not expecting miracles.
The Mustard: I'd gamble on Stewart late as RB4 who might be starting for you by the end of the season. Steve Smith is being projected between 4th and 12th. If he finished with 1200 and 10 this year, that'd be 180 fantasy points. 180 points would have been the 7th WR last year. Houshmandzadeh, Colston and Brandon Marshall will also push for a top 5-7 ranking this year, so I think taking Smith as 7th WR off the board is close to his ceiling. Delhomme is a QB2. I haven't gone through all the QBs yet, so there may be other QB2s I would rather gamble on depending where Delhomme is going in fantasy drafts.
Delhomme put up 600 yards and 8 TDs in the first three games last year against 1 INT. Roughly, that was a pace for 3000+ yards and 40+ TDs with only 5 INTs. Unfortunately, those stats were against St. Louis, Houston and Atlanta - 25th, 26th, and 27th in the NFL against the pass. Clearly those numbers aren't to be expected from Delhomme across the whole season. In fact, he averaged ONLY 200 yards per game against those teams. That's a little troubling. Finally, Delhomme missed three games in 06 and put up only 2800 yards and 17 TDs. Delhomme was good fantasy QB in 04 and 05, but that was three years ago, he wasn't spectacular in 06 and he missed most of 07. How much stock do you want to put in Delhomme? He's a QB2 with some hope of being a good #1.
Steve Smith finished 07 with 1000 yards and 7 TDs, down from 1166 and 8 in 06. It's widely reported that Smith's production is suffering because Carolina lacks a decent WR2. They also don't have a serious threat at TE. To compensate, the Panthers added Hackett and Muhammed. One has a reputation for being injured and the other is 35 with far more sub-1000 yard seasons than 1000 yard seasons. Muhammed has been durable, however and his production totals the last three years are understandable given he was in Chicago. I'm optimistic that between Hackett and Muhammed, Steve Smith will be double and triple covered less often this year, increasing his stats.
I think the running game will improve this year. The team has added a lot of help on line and drafted a first round RB. Veteran Deangelo Williams has shown flashes of ability, but nothing to cause me to assume he'll keep rookie Stewart from having an opportunity to win the starting job. I like Stewart here to finish the season as RB1 in Carolina. Bear in mind that with an all-new line and a weak overall rushing attack last year, I'm not expecting miracles.
The Mustard: I'd gamble on Stewart late as RB4 who might be starting for you by the end of the season. Steve Smith is being projected between 4th and 12th. If he finished with 1200 and 10 this year, that'd be 180 fantasy points. 180 points would have been the 7th WR last year. Houshmandzadeh, Colston and Brandon Marshall will also push for a top 5-7 ranking this year, so I think taking Smith as 7th WR off the board is close to his ceiling. Delhomme is a QB2. I haven't gone through all the QBs yet, so there may be other QB2s I would rather gamble on depending where Delhomme is going in fantasy drafts.
Detroit To Be Run First
Stolen from Football Guys.com:
Source: Eric Lacy, Detroit News
When asked about the difference between last season's offensive scheme under Mike Martz and new coordinator Jim Colletto 's approach, Lions center Dominic Raiola made sure to be careful with his words.
"I never had a problem with Mike's offense," Raiola said. "He's one of the great offensive minds and I respect him for that, but this (new scheme) is definitely a lot more simplified and geared to running the ball first. Mike's (system) was geared to passing first; I don't have a problem with that."
[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ OUR VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
It's no big secret that the Lions will run the ball more this year. But I thought you might like hearing it right from the horses mouth so to speak. Raiola will be charged with mastering this blocking scheme quickly and he sounds like he's already well on his way. And more specifically, it sounds like more run blocking this year.
I previously blogged that Detroit was likely to run more with Martz gone, this is confirmation from a lineman on the team. The question still remains - Kevin Jones or rookie Kevin Smith? Right now, I'm betting on Kevin Jones, but even if he wins the starting job, I don't want to take him as any more than a low-end RB2.
Source: Eric Lacy, Detroit News
When asked about the difference between last season's offensive scheme under Mike Martz and new coordinator Jim Colletto 's approach, Lions center Dominic Raiola made sure to be careful with his words.
"I never had a problem with Mike's offense," Raiola said. "He's one of the great offensive minds and I respect him for that, but this (new scheme) is definitely a lot more simplified and geared to running the ball first. Mike's (system) was geared to passing first; I don't have a problem with that."
[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ OUR VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
It's no big secret that the Lions will run the ball more this year. But I thought you might like hearing it right from the horses mouth so to speak. Raiola will be charged with mastering this blocking scheme quickly and he sounds like he's already well on his way. And more specifically, it sounds like more run blocking this year.
I previously blogged that Detroit was likely to run more with Martz gone, this is confirmation from a lineman on the team. The question still remains - Kevin Jones or rookie Kevin Smith? Right now, I'm betting on Kevin Jones, but even if he wins the starting job, I don't want to take him as any more than a low-end RB2.
Friday, May 30, 2008
Good News For Marion Barbarian
Felix Jones is being asked to compete for punt/kickoff return duty. If that's not a clear sign he's nothing more than a spot-duty back, I don't know what is. Marion Barber remains a viable fantasy running back. He gained 975 on the ground, 282 receiving and 12 total TDs while Julius Jones vultured almost 800 all-purpose yards.
Barber carried the ball 204 times to J.Jones' 164 - only about 3 more times per game, making for a pretty even run split. I believe Felix Jones will not have a problem staying on an NFL roster, perhaps as the lead rusher for a team. However, contrary to an earlier post, this news makes me believe that Barber will continue to get more carries than the rookie.
The Mustard: I suspect Barber will get 250 or more rushing attempts this year, good for about 1100 yards rushing, another 200 or so receiving (F. Jones may get some third down work) and about 12-14 TDs.
Barber carried the ball 204 times to J.Jones' 164 - only about 3 more times per game, making for a pretty even run split. I believe Felix Jones will not have a problem staying on an NFL roster, perhaps as the lead rusher for a team. However, contrary to an earlier post, this news makes me believe that Barber will continue to get more carries than the rookie.
The Mustard: I suspect Barber will get 250 or more rushing attempts this year, good for about 1100 yards rushing, another 200 or so receiving (F. Jones may get some third down work) and about 12-14 TDs.
Monday, May 26, 2008
Jamal Lewis Discussion
Jamal Lewis can't get no respect. He finished 6th in Yahoo standard scoring last year and Dave Richard on his blog at CBSSports.com is calling him a #2 RB while saying another staffer is going to avoid Lewis altogether.
Read the comments - everyone's negative on Lewis. Let's look again at the results from last year:
LT, 293
Westbrook, 269
Addai, 222
Adrian Peterson (Min), 222
Portis, 210
Jamal Lewis, 207
Marion Barber, 187
Willis McGahee, 174
Edge, 172
Gore, 170
Lynch, 167
Earnest Graham, 167
Jones-Drew, 161
Steven Jackson, 154
The #6 back in fantasy football is a borderline #2 RB?
Strangely, I see that argument and here's why: 1) new contract - less incentive to sacrifice himself. It's probably his last contract, he's going to be 29, so in the back of his mind he's probably thinking this year and next year might be all he has unless he's just good enough and still healthy enough to avoid being cut in two seasons; and 2) inconsistency - Lewis was all over the map in fantasy points last year with 7 games over and 9 games under 90 yards. The games under 90 were usually way under (0, 11, 35, 35, 37, 56, 61, 62, 64). And although he finished with 9 rushing TDs, he got four of those in one game. His reception yardage was also inconsistent but usually low.
In the end, if anything, I think the fact Lewis finished so high last year might be due to the fact it was a down year for most RBs last year.
The Mustard: Lewis is going to be available probably late in the second to the top of the third round. Personally, I'd be good with him as my RB2, but at this time, I have to admit I would probably rather take other players available at that time, such as Reggie Wayne, Tony Romo or maybe even Brandon Jacobs, Rudi Johnson or Darren McFadden.
Read the comments - everyone's negative on Lewis. Let's look again at the results from last year:
LT, 293
Westbrook, 269
Addai, 222
Adrian Peterson (Min), 222
Portis, 210
Jamal Lewis, 207
Marion Barber, 187
Willis McGahee, 174
Edge, 172
Gore, 170
Lynch, 167
Earnest Graham, 167
Jones-Drew, 161
Steven Jackson, 154
The #6 back in fantasy football is a borderline #2 RB?
Strangely, I see that argument and here's why: 1) new contract - less incentive to sacrifice himself. It's probably his last contract, he's going to be 29, so in the back of his mind he's probably thinking this year and next year might be all he has unless he's just good enough and still healthy enough to avoid being cut in two seasons; and 2) inconsistency - Lewis was all over the map in fantasy points last year with 7 games over and 9 games under 90 yards. The games under 90 were usually way under (0, 11, 35, 35, 37, 56, 61, 62, 64). And although he finished with 9 rushing TDs, he got four of those in one game. His reception yardage was also inconsistent but usually low.
In the end, if anything, I think the fact Lewis finished so high last year might be due to the fact it was a down year for most RBs last year.
The Mustard: Lewis is going to be available probably late in the second to the top of the third round. Personally, I'd be good with him as my RB2, but at this time, I have to admit I would probably rather take other players available at that time, such as Reggie Wayne, Tony Romo or maybe even Brandon Jacobs, Rudi Johnson or Darren McFadden.
Sunday, May 25, 2008
Coaching Changes To Know
First off, thanks to Footballguys.com. I usually compile something like this coaching changes chart my own self, but I stumbled across theirs and it saved me considerable time.
Some notes:
Atlanta and Miami get all new staffs. You weren't going to bank on these teams anyway, right? Well, there is Ronnie Brown and Michael Turner. Both remain worthy of consideration as RB2s despite questions of coaching. OC Dan Henning frustrated me at RB during his tenure in Carolina, though. Between that and the knee reconstruction, I'm not as high on Brown this year as others. Speaking of Ronnie Brown...
Baltimore's new OC is Cam Cameron, the guy who was busy making a stud of Ronnie Brown last year prior to said knee injury. Cameron previously coached a couple moderately successful guys named LT and Antonio Gates. I'm hoping the new HC in Baltimore doesn't interfere with Cam, because I'm high on McGahee this year. It might also be a good year to draft Todd Heap even with the new QB in town.
Cincinnati will probably get worse on defense after picking up Atlanta cast-off Mike Zimmer. You weren't taking their DST anyway.
Detroit promotes Jim Colletto to replace Mike Martz. Conventional wisdom says he'll run more frequently than Martz did. While I am still hesitant on betting on the Detroit running game until I see that it exists, I think I can say we should avoid Jon Kitna this year. Martz made him fantasy worthy, not any innate talent.
Houston promotes Kyle Shanahan to OC. I bring this up because I think Shanahan, QB coach last year, should know the system, know Matt Schaub and Andre Johnson to keep them at least as good as they were last year.
Jackson hires Greg Williams as DC. The Jags had a top 10ish defense last year and Williams coached a top 10ish defense in Washington. Call this a push.
Kansas City hired Chan Gailey from Ga. Tech to run the offense. Previously unbeknownst to me, Gailey actually has a decent NFL resume of winning offense with a run-first philosphy. Here's a good article. The OL is a shambles in KC, but LJ will have a better year than last. Footballguys has LJ at a composite 9th on the RB list. I think that's a few positions high myself, but Gailey will do his best to help LJ live up to that billing, I think.
NY Jets hired Bill Callahan as Asst. Head Coach, Offense. Footballguys listed him as OL coach, but the Jets' site uses the Asst. HC designation. I'm already thinking Thomas Jones will outperform his ranking, but Callahan continues to bolster that thinking. Though Callahan was a disaster at Nebraska, he coached a pretty good offense at Oakland under Jon Gruden and then in 2002 as HC of the Raiders before a team mutiny in 2003 scuttled his tenure. Callahan should bolster the whole NYJ offense provided he hasn't gotten rusty or daft in the last 4 years.
San Fran hired Mike Martz as OC. CW says this is good for Frank Gore. Ask Stephen Jackson or any of the Detroit RBs how good Martz was for them. Not so much. Martz was good for Marshall Faulk, so there's a chance he'll make Gore a star again, but I wouldn't stake my season on it. If I knew who the QB was going to be, I'd target him as my #2 QB. Martz' QBs tend to get 4000 yards and 25+ TDs.
St. Louis hired Al Saunders as OC and my opinion of Stephen Jackson's chances for success continues to improve. Saunders hasn't shown at Washington that he is an RBBC guy and Portis put up some good stats. I am convinced Jackson is a better RB than Portis. The OL is healthier. There's not much left to be negative about when thinking of St. Louis' offense.
Tennessee hired Mike Heimerdinger as OC. There's not as much written on the web about Heimerdinger, but he was OC for the Titans from 01-04 (or 00-03, I'm not 100%) - above average offensive years for the team. I'm kind of liking Vince Young this year as well as sleeper RB Chris Johnson.
Washington hired Jim Zorn as HC and Sherman Smith as OC. Jim Zorn was a QB coach in Seattle. I think a jump to HC is a bit much. Similarly, Smith was the running back coach for Tennessee. While OC is the next logical progression for Smith, I can't say I've been impressed with Tennessee's RBs the last few years. I'm going to think hard before drafting a Redskin this year.
Some notes:
Atlanta and Miami get all new staffs. You weren't going to bank on these teams anyway, right? Well, there is Ronnie Brown and Michael Turner. Both remain worthy of consideration as RB2s despite questions of coaching. OC Dan Henning frustrated me at RB during his tenure in Carolina, though. Between that and the knee reconstruction, I'm not as high on Brown this year as others. Speaking of Ronnie Brown...
Baltimore's new OC is Cam Cameron, the guy who was busy making a stud of Ronnie Brown last year prior to said knee injury. Cameron previously coached a couple moderately successful guys named LT and Antonio Gates. I'm hoping the new HC in Baltimore doesn't interfere with Cam, because I'm high on McGahee this year. It might also be a good year to draft Todd Heap even with the new QB in town.
Cincinnati will probably get worse on defense after picking up Atlanta cast-off Mike Zimmer. You weren't taking their DST anyway.
Detroit promotes Jim Colletto to replace Mike Martz. Conventional wisdom says he'll run more frequently than Martz did. While I am still hesitant on betting on the Detroit running game until I see that it exists, I think I can say we should avoid Jon Kitna this year. Martz made him fantasy worthy, not any innate talent.
Houston promotes Kyle Shanahan to OC. I bring this up because I think Shanahan, QB coach last year, should know the system, know Matt Schaub and Andre Johnson to keep them at least as good as they were last year.
Jackson hires Greg Williams as DC. The Jags had a top 10ish defense last year and Williams coached a top 10ish defense in Washington. Call this a push.
Kansas City hired Chan Gailey from Ga. Tech to run the offense. Previously unbeknownst to me, Gailey actually has a decent NFL resume of winning offense with a run-first philosphy. Here's a good article. The OL is a shambles in KC, but LJ will have a better year than last. Footballguys has LJ at a composite 9th on the RB list. I think that's a few positions high myself, but Gailey will do his best to help LJ live up to that billing, I think.
NY Jets hired Bill Callahan as Asst. Head Coach, Offense. Footballguys listed him as OL coach, but the Jets' site uses the Asst. HC designation. I'm already thinking Thomas Jones will outperform his ranking, but Callahan continues to bolster that thinking. Though Callahan was a disaster at Nebraska, he coached a pretty good offense at Oakland under Jon Gruden and then in 2002 as HC of the Raiders before a team mutiny in 2003 scuttled his tenure. Callahan should bolster the whole NYJ offense provided he hasn't gotten rusty or daft in the last 4 years.
San Fran hired Mike Martz as OC. CW says this is good for Frank Gore. Ask Stephen Jackson or any of the Detroit RBs how good Martz was for them. Not so much. Martz was good for Marshall Faulk, so there's a chance he'll make Gore a star again, but I wouldn't stake my season on it. If I knew who the QB was going to be, I'd target him as my #2 QB. Martz' QBs tend to get 4000 yards and 25+ TDs.
St. Louis hired Al Saunders as OC and my opinion of Stephen Jackson's chances for success continues to improve. Saunders hasn't shown at Washington that he is an RBBC guy and Portis put up some good stats. I am convinced Jackson is a better RB than Portis. The OL is healthier. There's not much left to be negative about when thinking of St. Louis' offense.
Tennessee hired Mike Heimerdinger as OC. There's not as much written on the web about Heimerdinger, but he was OC for the Titans from 01-04 (or 00-03, I'm not 100%) - above average offensive years for the team. I'm kind of liking Vince Young this year as well as sleeper RB Chris Johnson.
Washington hired Jim Zorn as HC and Sherman Smith as OC. Jim Zorn was a QB coach in Seattle. I think a jump to HC is a bit much. Similarly, Smith was the running back coach for Tennessee. While OC is the next logical progression for Smith, I can't say I've been impressed with Tennessee's RBs the last few years. I'm going to think hard before drafting a Redskin this year.
No Fun League After Fans Too?
I read on FoxSports that the NFL is going to institute a fan conduct policy. I hope they don't blow it.
I had the opportunity to go to a few Bills games growing up. I think I saw a fight break out in nearby section a couple of times. I also distinctly remember saying something particularly unbecoming of a young teenager while gesturing with one upraised finger to a Raider fan at one game.
Mature? No. Passionate? Yes.
Contrast that with the Falcons game I went to last year. I literally saw more passion and enthusiasm at a F.I.R.S.T. robotics competition in the same Georgia Dome a month or two ago. International geeks (and I say that affectionately) rocked the Dome more than NFL fans. Very sad.
I understand Goodell's concern, but if he isn't careful, in his quest to control the bottle and snowball throwing jerks, he may end up squashing passion.
I had the opportunity to go to a few Bills games growing up. I think I saw a fight break out in nearby section a couple of times. I also distinctly remember saying something particularly unbecoming of a young teenager while gesturing with one upraised finger to a Raider fan at one game.
Mature? No. Passionate? Yes.
Contrast that with the Falcons game I went to last year. I literally saw more passion and enthusiasm at a F.I.R.S.T. robotics competition in the same Georgia Dome a month or two ago. International geeks (and I say that affectionately) rocked the Dome more than NFL fans. Very sad.
I understand Goodell's concern, but if he isn't careful, in his quest to control the bottle and snowball throwing jerks, he may end up squashing passion.
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
Two Mock Drafts To Ponder
First, Fabiano's one-man draft (here), updated from early last month (here).
I find myself agreeing with where Willie Parker is. I'm still uncomfortable with Adrian Peterson at second overall and Westbrook at three. LJ and Frank Gore should both rebound from last year, but if they don't they won't justify their first round selection either. Right now, I'd rather have Lynch, Portis, Ryan Grant or McGahee than LJ. Gore is a coin flip as Martz has done wonders with Faulk, but he did squat with Stephen Jackson and any running back in Detroit. Faulk was an excellent receiver, you say, just like Gore. Yeah, and so is Jackson.
I'd also be real careful about selecting Ernest Graham until I see if a) he does or doesn't get a new contract and b) how Dunn and Cadillac look. I think Graham may find himself unemployed with few suitors if he isn't careful.
Second, a CBSSports.com mock draft (here).
This one is done by multiple people, but I think one or two of them are paying less attention than the others. Willie Parker at the top of the second, for example. Romo falls all the way to the third round. Braylon Edwards taken ahead of Reggie Wayne. Wes Welker ahead of Brandon Marshall.
Do you know what I like about both of these drafts? Thomas Jones isn't on one and in the other, he's fifth round. He has a composite ranking of 23rd right now on footballguys.com and no one has him higher than 18th. He's still the bell cow for the New York Jets and they've improved their line. It's not like Jones was a total slob last year either - he got 1120 yards on 310 carries and another 217 receiving. It's his TD total that's holding his rating down. With an improved OL, I am expecting more yards, more TDs and maybe even more carries.
In a redraft, guys like Thomas Jones falling through the cracks let me take a bigger name player sooner and still get a starter at RB in the fifth round!!! Looking at the CBS draft, it might be possible to select TO, Romo, Reggie Wayne, Michael Turner and Thomas Jones - in that order. I'd go to war with that, no doubt about it. I could also pick up Cooley in the 6th for my TE. Yeah, I'm liking that...
I find myself agreeing with where Willie Parker is. I'm still uncomfortable with Adrian Peterson at second overall and Westbrook at three. LJ and Frank Gore should both rebound from last year, but if they don't they won't justify their first round selection either. Right now, I'd rather have Lynch, Portis, Ryan Grant or McGahee than LJ. Gore is a coin flip as Martz has done wonders with Faulk, but he did squat with Stephen Jackson and any running back in Detroit. Faulk was an excellent receiver, you say, just like Gore. Yeah, and so is Jackson.
I'd also be real careful about selecting Ernest Graham until I see if a) he does or doesn't get a new contract and b) how Dunn and Cadillac look. I think Graham may find himself unemployed with few suitors if he isn't careful.
Second, a CBSSports.com mock draft (here).
This one is done by multiple people, but I think one or two of them are paying less attention than the others. Willie Parker at the top of the second, for example. Romo falls all the way to the third round. Braylon Edwards taken ahead of Reggie Wayne. Wes Welker ahead of Brandon Marshall.
Do you know what I like about both of these drafts? Thomas Jones isn't on one and in the other, he's fifth round. He has a composite ranking of 23rd right now on footballguys.com and no one has him higher than 18th. He's still the bell cow for the New York Jets and they've improved their line. It's not like Jones was a total slob last year either - he got 1120 yards on 310 carries and another 217 receiving. It's his TD total that's holding his rating down. With an improved OL, I am expecting more yards, more TDs and maybe even more carries.
In a redraft, guys like Thomas Jones falling through the cracks let me take a bigger name player sooner and still get a starter at RB in the fifth round!!! Looking at the CBS draft, it might be possible to select TO, Romo, Reggie Wayne, Michael Turner and Thomas Jones - in that order. I'd go to war with that, no doubt about it. I could also pick up Cooley in the 6th for my TE. Yeah, I'm liking that...
First, Stay Away From Nightclubs
It looks like the Saints may lose a starting DE. Charles Grant was indicted for involuntary manslaughter, according to the Early County News. I found the story on sportsillustrated here.
Per the article, Grant is a starter for the Saints. He's not even suspended yet by NFL and there is potentially a long way to go from indictment to jury verdict or plea agreement, so whatever impact this has is yet to be seen.
Also per the article, there was no indication at the time of the incident that Grant was anything other than a guy who got stabbed in a fight.
The Mustard: Just something to keep an eye on for Saints fans and those who were considering selecting their DST.
Per the article, Grant is a starter for the Saints. He's not even suspended yet by NFL and there is potentially a long way to go from indictment to jury verdict or plea agreement, so whatever impact this has is yet to be seen.
Also per the article, there was no indication at the time of the incident that Grant was anything other than a guy who got stabbed in a fight.
The Mustard: Just something to keep an eye on for Saints fans and those who were considering selecting their DST.
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
Jamey Eisenberg On Andre Johnson
This is awful news. Johnson has the chance to be the No. 1 recevier in the NFL this year. Last year, Johnson had 60 catches for 851 yardsand eight touchdowns in only seven games because of the knee. If you project his stats over a full season, Johnson would have had 107 catches for 1,514 yards and 14 touchdowns, which would have been second only to Randy Moss. Hopefully for Fantasy owners, Johnson will be 100 percent in 2008.
I was planning on drafting Johnson as my No. 1 wide receiver every chance I could. Will that change now? Probably not, but I want to see what happens in training camp. Hopefully he will be healthy because without him, Owen Daniels will suffer, as will Matt Schaub.
Pfft. This is good news. And if you take him as your #1 WR, I hope it's in the third round. I know it's only been a few minutes since my Andre Johnson post, but you could do worse than say... Romo, then Jamal Lewis, then Andre Johnson.
Andre Johnson
I pretty much overlooked Andre Johnson last year, though I seem to recall hearing or reading from somewhere (and then blogging it?) that if he were on a different team, he'd be a top tier WR.
Well guess what, he is a top tier WR. He tallied 850 yds and 8 TDs last year - in just nine games, including some of those in which he was playing with a sore knee.
He's had his knee cleaned out now and should be in less pain to start the season.
Andre is the type of player I like to identify because he has top 5 potential but is likely to be available at a value. Pay attention to what the sites and the mags rank him. Right now, he is a composite #7 on footballguys.com, with individual experts ranking him as high as #2 and as low as 12. Two, is a little high for a guy that hasn't shown it yet. I think 8-9 is more like it.
Well guess what, he is a top tier WR. He tallied 850 yds and 8 TDs last year - in just nine games, including some of those in which he was playing with a sore knee.
He's had his knee cleaned out now and should be in less pain to start the season.
Andre is the type of player I like to identify because he has top 5 potential but is likely to be available at a value. Pay attention to what the sites and the mags rank him. Right now, he is a composite #7 on footballguys.com, with individual experts ranking him as high as #2 and as low as 12. Two, is a little high for a guy that hasn't shown it yet. I think 8-9 is more like it.
Saturday, May 17, 2008
Pretty Good RB Rundown
I agree with most of the comments here. The article is a very informative look, in a team-by-team format, at each running back situation in the NFL.
Among my disagreements:
Houston - Ahman Green will get hurt, Steve Slaton will win a slot in the top 2 rotation or both. I'm not drafting either Green or Brown and I wouldn't be surprised at all if Slaton is first or second Texan RB taken in fantasy drafts.
Seattle - Maurice Morris will be the starter and Jones is backup to committee at best. Morris has a career 4.3 YPC average. Jones' best year was 4.2 and that was as a rookie with 7 games. (Remember, we all rushed to draft him in the first round the next year? Oops.)
Nothing else major stands out. Good work by Michael Fabiano.
Among my disagreements:
Houston - Ahman Green will get hurt, Steve Slaton will win a slot in the top 2 rotation or both. I'm not drafting either Green or Brown and I wouldn't be surprised at all if Slaton is first or second Texan RB taken in fantasy drafts.
Seattle - Maurice Morris will be the starter and Jones is backup to committee at best. Morris has a career 4.3 YPC average. Jones' best year was 4.2 and that was as a rookie with 7 games. (Remember, we all rushed to draft him in the first round the next year? Oops.)
Nothing else major stands out. Good work by Michael Fabiano.
Friday, May 16, 2008
Houston Running Game
Stolen from Footballguys:
HOU - Texans With Coach Alex Gibbs Going To Zone Block Scheme
Source: Brooke Bentley, HoustonTexans.com
The Texans running game ranked 22nd last season and HC Gary Kubiak has put assistant head coach Alex Gibbs in charge of installing the zone blocking scheme he orchestrated in Denver. The Broncos led the NFL in rushing with 20,150 yards in the nine seasons Gibbs coached there. From 2004-2006, Gibbs guided the Atlanta Falcons to an NFL-best 8,157 rushing yards. "I was already familiar with zone blocking," said C Chris Myers, who was brought in as a free agent from Denver, "But he's changing the Houston Texans' run game. Having the guy who signifies the whole zone blocking scheme helps a lot here."
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This story is a great example of how the guys like you that pay attention in May have a real advantage. While the middle of the pack guys in your league are doing NBA or baseball stuff, you're thinking about how Alex Gibbs is going to change this running game. And I think he'll change it for the better. The guy improves the run wherever he goes and Houston shouldn't be any different. Mark it down.
The running backs in Houston are Ahman Green, Chris Brown, a couple unknown players and third round pick Steve Slaton.
The Mustard: Another reason to gamble on Steve Slaton. Green might keep the starting gig (He's certainly paid to be the starter.) but at 31 and having missed most of last year I wouldn't count on it. I doubt Brown will keep Slaton down because he is a good, but not very good running back. Slaton has all the upside here. I'm not saying count on him. I'm saying stash him on the bench as your RB4, maybe RB3 if he lights up the off-season camps.
HOU - Texans With Coach Alex Gibbs Going To Zone Block Scheme
Source: Brooke Bentley, HoustonTexans.com
The Texans running game ranked 22nd last season and HC Gary Kubiak has put assistant head coach Alex Gibbs in charge of installing the zone blocking scheme he orchestrated in Denver. The Broncos led the NFL in rushing with 20,150 yards in the nine seasons Gibbs coached there. From 2004-2006, Gibbs guided the Atlanta Falcons to an NFL-best 8,157 rushing yards. "I was already familiar with zone blocking," said C Chris Myers, who was brought in as a free agent from Denver, "But he's changing the Houston Texans' run game. Having the guy who signifies the whole zone blocking scheme helps a lot here."
[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ OUR VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
This story is a great example of how the guys like you that pay attention in May have a real advantage. While the middle of the pack guys in your league are doing NBA or baseball stuff, you're thinking about how Alex Gibbs is going to change this running game. And I think he'll change it for the better. The guy improves the run wherever he goes and Houston shouldn't be any different. Mark it down.
The running backs in Houston are Ahman Green, Chris Brown, a couple unknown players and third round pick Steve Slaton.
The Mustard: Another reason to gamble on Steve Slaton. Green might keep the starting gig (He's certainly paid to be the starter.) but at 31 and having missed most of last year I wouldn't count on it. I doubt Brown will keep Slaton down because he is a good, but not very good running back. Slaton has all the upside here. I'm not saying count on him. I'm saying stash him on the bench as your RB4, maybe RB3 if he lights up the off-season camps.
Thursday, May 15, 2008
I'm getting antsy...
Seems some of the writers are turned now toward fantasy implications of the off season - not a lot, but more of them. And because I'm stumbling across them, I'm learning little gems here and there. Well, learning gems is subjective. It's mini-camp hype, actually, but it gets my juices flowing.
I want to do something, like start ranking players.
One thing about ranked lists, and I think I've blogged this before, is to remember that players should probably be grouped based on your projections for them. And even then, you have to account for intangibles.
For example, I consider both potential basements and ceilings in stats. If the player is, in my opinion, just as likely to be a bust as a superstar, I tend to rank them a few slots lower, potentially into a lower grouping.
I also tend to place a premium on consistency. I don't regret targeting TJ Houshmandzedah over Chad Johnson last year because of exactly what happened -TJ performed almost every week while Chad was all over the map. Similarly, if I have the top pick in a pick 'em league, I almost have to take LT, but then I am really anxious to get a 'solid' RB as my second back because LT for years has been up and down the fantasy scoreboard week to week.
And of course, I am in the beginnings of considering draft strategy. So far, I'm not thrilled with the top RB prospects. LT I just wrote about. Stephen Jackson was a huge disappointment last year and while it's not his fault, it does highlight the risk of picking him at the second or third spot he's currently ranked. Brian Westbrook exceeded my expectations last year, so I got that wrong, but the odds of him repeating that success is even slimmer next year and if I'm taking a back that high in the draft, I want to KNOW he's going to be a top-5 back. I guess that what it boils down to, I can't look at any of them except LT and convince myself they'll finish the year as a top-5 back.
So what am I looking at for a strategy? It's very early yet, but if I had to draft tomorrow, I'm leaning toward taking a QB in the first round and gambling on second tier RBs.
Well see how I feel when I put my rankings together.
I want to do something, like start ranking players.
One thing about ranked lists, and I think I've blogged this before, is to remember that players should probably be grouped based on your projections for them. And even then, you have to account for intangibles.
For example, I consider both potential basements and ceilings in stats. If the player is, in my opinion, just as likely to be a bust as a superstar, I tend to rank them a few slots lower, potentially into a lower grouping.
I also tend to place a premium on consistency. I don't regret targeting TJ Houshmandzedah over Chad Johnson last year because of exactly what happened -TJ performed almost every week while Chad was all over the map. Similarly, if I have the top pick in a pick 'em league, I almost have to take LT, but then I am really anxious to get a 'solid' RB as my second back because LT for years has been up and down the fantasy scoreboard week to week.
And of course, I am in the beginnings of considering draft strategy. So far, I'm not thrilled with the top RB prospects. LT I just wrote about. Stephen Jackson was a huge disappointment last year and while it's not his fault, it does highlight the risk of picking him at the second or third spot he's currently ranked. Brian Westbrook exceeded my expectations last year, so I got that wrong, but the odds of him repeating that success is even slimmer next year and if I'm taking a back that high in the draft, I want to KNOW he's going to be a top-5 back. I guess that what it boils down to, I can't look at any of them except LT and convince myself they'll finish the year as a top-5 back.
So what am I looking at for a strategy? It's very early yet, but if I had to draft tomorrow, I'm leaning toward taking a QB in the first round and gambling on second tier RBs.
Well see how I feel when I put my rankings together.
Sunday, May 11, 2008
Ravens' Whole Roster Brawl
Here.
I am not surprised. You could spin this either way - undisciplined thugs or intense competitors. There's probably no fantasy impact other than, in my opinion, I'm a little concerned about these guys developing a sense of teamwork.
I am not surprised. You could spin this either way - undisciplined thugs or intense competitors. There's probably no fantasy impact other than, in my opinion, I'm a little concerned about these guys developing a sense of teamwork.
Cedric Benson: Not A Dumb Fart?
This blog's not exactly widely read material in Chicago, I'm sure, but I have to be fair to Benson. I mentioned it appeared he was a dumb fart for, if nothing else, resisting arrest. Now it seems at least two witnesses are holding up his side of the story that the authorities used excessive force.
Hey, I wasn't there, so I don't know what happened. Police have shown a lack of professionalism a time or two, I admit, but on the other hand, I have a hard time believing some boating cop decided it'd be fun to mace and rough up Chicago's running back without some provocation.
There's certainly enough doubt on the official story that it appears the Bears are going with the status quo for now, as would I.
I still think Matt Forte has an excellent opportunity to grab a starting tailback gig behind a pretty decent offensive line.
Hey, I wasn't there, so I don't know what happened. Police have shown a lack of professionalism a time or two, I admit, but on the other hand, I have a hard time believing some boating cop decided it'd be fun to mace and rough up Chicago's running back without some provocation.
There's certainly enough doubt on the official story that it appears the Bears are going with the status quo for now, as would I.
I still think Matt Forte has an excellent opportunity to grab a starting tailback gig behind a pretty decent offensive line.
Sleeper RB: Steve Slaton
After making a big move for Matt Schaub last year - it's been pretty easy to forget about the Texans outside of Andre Johnson. And he would get more love if he were on another team. So it will be no surprise if the Texans' third round draft back gets overlooked, too.
Maybe you should consider Steve Slaton as your fourth RB. Slaton is sixth all time in the Big East in rushing and was part of the dynamic West Virginia offense. Ball control apparently cost him some playing time late in his college career. Between that, his size, a concern of injury history and the perception he is more interested in dancing behind the line than hitting the hole, I think I can see why he fell to the third round. But...
The Texans other running backs are aging veteran Ahman Green, who missed most of last season with a knee injury, veteran so-so running back Chris Brown and two or three other guys you've never heard of. Ron Dayne was the lead rusher last year and he's gone. Slaton definitely has the opportunity to win the starting gig.
Here's a little more to read if you want: here.
Maybe you should consider Steve Slaton as your fourth RB. Slaton is sixth all time in the Big East in rushing and was part of the dynamic West Virginia offense. Ball control apparently cost him some playing time late in his college career. Between that, his size, a concern of injury history and the perception he is more interested in dancing behind the line than hitting the hole, I think I can see why he fell to the third round. But...
The Texans other running backs are aging veteran Ahman Green, who missed most of last season with a knee injury, veteran so-so running back Chris Brown and two or three other guys you've never heard of. Ron Dayne was the lead rusher last year and he's gone. Slaton definitely has the opportunity to win the starting gig.
Here's a little more to read if you want: here.
Tuesday, May 6, 2008
Less Bryan Westbrook?
Westbrook surprised everyone last year, especially me. But I'm seeing him as high as 2 this year and usually 3. But it looks like that ranking may be a little premature...
According to Reuben Frank of phillyburbs.com, Philadelphia will attempt to spread the ball around a little more this year.
The Mustard: It's not like there's a ton of options in Philly but you have to suspect they'll at least try to limit Westbrook's touches. I'd be sure to put a lid on Westbrook's projections. I really doubt he'll repeat as the #2 RB.
According to Reuben Frank of phillyburbs.com, Philadelphia will attempt to spread the ball around a little more this year.
The Mustard: It's not like there's a ton of options in Philly but you have to suspect they'll at least try to limit Westbrook's touches. I'd be sure to put a lid on Westbrook's projections. I really doubt he'll repeat as the #2 RB.
Monday, May 5, 2008
Matt Forte Says Right Stuff
The fastest way to get on the field is to block, says the Bears' rookie RB: here.
Marvin Harrison, Cedric Benson
I'm not ignoring the legal troubles of these two NFL starters. I'm just waiting for a little clarity to emerge.
I hope Harrison is either not involved or that his involvement is limited to justifiable actions such as returning fire at someone who pulled a gun. I don't think Harrison is a thug, or it would have been apparent before now, don't you think?
Benson, it appears at least, is a dumb fart. Resisting arrest is never a good idea. Even if you're all innocent and pure as the driven snow, the act of resisting is itself a crime. Remember, 'Yes, sir' may or may not get you out of whatever trouble the nice man with a badge, pepper spray, gun, handcuffs and radio is talking to you about, but you will at least go to jail with less pepper spray in your eyes and fewer bumps on your head.
Benson does need to be worried about his roster spot, however. I am reading that early reports out of Chicago regarding 2nd round rookie back Matt Forte are overflowing with joy at his skills in practice and hope that he warrants his draft position. Keep in mind, the Bears still did not select a QB, so they're going to have to lean on the run.
I hope Harrison is either not involved or that his involvement is limited to justifiable actions such as returning fire at someone who pulled a gun. I don't think Harrison is a thug, or it would have been apparent before now, don't you think?
Benson, it appears at least, is a dumb fart. Resisting arrest is never a good idea. Even if you're all innocent and pure as the driven snow, the act of resisting is itself a crime. Remember, 'Yes, sir' may or may not get you out of whatever trouble the nice man with a badge, pepper spray, gun, handcuffs and radio is talking to you about, but you will at least go to jail with less pepper spray in your eyes and fewer bumps on your head.
Benson does need to be worried about his roster spot, however. I am reading that early reports out of Chicago regarding 2nd round rookie back Matt Forte are overflowing with joy at his skills in practice and hope that he warrants his draft position. Keep in mind, the Bears still did not select a QB, so they're going to have to lean on the run.
Antonio Gates' Toe
Antonio Gates says he's recovering from surgery on his toe that he had in February. Toe surgeries are not as harmless as it might seem. Gates will no doubt be able to suit up, walk and even run, but can he push off and cut?
The Mustard: It's probably safer to let someone else draft the best TE in fantasy football.
The Mustard: It's probably safer to let someone else draft the best TE in fantasy football.
Sunday, May 4, 2008
'Skins, 'Niners, Tennessee, Dallas
ESPN reports that the 'Skins will use a 'west coast' offense this year. Jason Campbell is so far adjusting well.
The Mustard: ESPN pretty much nailed it - the run-first philosophy is no more in Washington. Look for more pass attempts from Campbell, who ran a similar offense his senior year when he blossomed into a first round draft pick. Do not necessarily downgrade Portis, who can catch the ball and will be a valuable option in a 'west coast' scheme.
My latest footballguys.com newsletter came out and I think the following have fantasy implications:
Niners - Mike Martz thinks he can run the greatest show on turf in San Fran. Oh, boy! (sarcasm). I don't think he has the tools. First, he doesn't know who his QB is, the article has the coaches saying, 'Well, Frank Gore isn't quite Marshall Faulk' and they think Isaac Bruce will be their #1 WR with Bryant Johnson at #2. I see FAIL written all over this. On the other hand, Martz got 4000 yards passing out of Kitna and 1000 yard receiving from Roy Williams.
The Mustard: Frank Gore will likely succeed. Whoever is QB will most likely end up with more than 3500 yards passing. Isaac Bruce will do well to complete 11 games.
Tennessee - They're already talking about moving rookie Chris Johnson all over the field from his natural role as running back to slot and wide receiver.
The Mustard: I betcha this guy starts making all the lists of 'sleeper' running backs. I think he's worth something, but the question is still how much verses the hype.
Dallas - RB coach compares Felix Jones to Charlie Garner. Footballguys point out Garner was good for about 12 carries and 5 catches per game. Julius Jones got about 10 and 1.5 per game last year.
The Mustard: They drafted him in the first round so they obviously intend to use him more than Julius Jones, who they deemed expendable. I think Felix Jones and Marion Barber will get about a 50-50 split in RB production, with maybe Barber getting more goal line work.
The Mustard: ESPN pretty much nailed it - the run-first philosophy is no more in Washington. Look for more pass attempts from Campbell, who ran a similar offense his senior year when he blossomed into a first round draft pick. Do not necessarily downgrade Portis, who can catch the ball and will be a valuable option in a 'west coast' scheme.
My latest footballguys.com newsletter came out and I think the following have fantasy implications:
Niners - Mike Martz thinks he can run the greatest show on turf in San Fran. Oh, boy! (sarcasm). I don't think he has the tools. First, he doesn't know who his QB is, the article has the coaches saying, 'Well, Frank Gore isn't quite Marshall Faulk' and they think Isaac Bruce will be their #1 WR with Bryant Johnson at #2. I see FAIL written all over this. On the other hand, Martz got 4000 yards passing out of Kitna and 1000 yard receiving from Roy Williams.
The Mustard: Frank Gore will likely succeed. Whoever is QB will most likely end up with more than 3500 yards passing. Isaac Bruce will do well to complete 11 games.
Tennessee - They're already talking about moving rookie Chris Johnson all over the field from his natural role as running back to slot and wide receiver.
The Mustard: I betcha this guy starts making all the lists of 'sleeper' running backs. I think he's worth something, but the question is still how much verses the hype.
Dallas - RB coach compares Felix Jones to Charlie Garner. Footballguys point out Garner was good for about 12 carries and 5 catches per game. Julius Jones got about 10 and 1.5 per game last year.
The Mustard: They drafted him in the first round so they obviously intend to use him more than Julius Jones, who they deemed expendable. I think Felix Jones and Marion Barber will get about a 50-50 split in RB production, with maybe Barber getting more goal line work.
Saturday, May 3, 2008
Washington, St. Louis Lines Should Improve
Fox Sports' Alex Marvez:
Marvez also reminds us of the Ram's O-line injuries last year.
The Mustard: The 'Skins were missing two starters last year on the right side of the O-line. If they're not missing this year - that means good things for Portis and Jason Campbell.
Washington Redskins
Pressing need: Reassembling the offensive line. Right tackle was a revolving door in 2007 after Jon Jansen was lost to a fractured ankle in the season-opener. The season-long absence of right guard Randy Thomas (triceps) also hurt.
Possible solution: Jansen will practice Friday in Washington's minicamp for the first time since being injured. Jansen, who has missed two of the past four seasons because of injuries, and Thomas seem safe in Washington for another year. But the Redskins may already have future replacements in Stephon Heyer and Chad Rinehart, a 2008 third-round pick from Northern Iowa.
Marvez also reminds us of the Ram's O-line injuries last year.
The Mustard: The 'Skins were missing two starters last year on the right side of the O-line. If they're not missing this year - that means good things for Portis and Jason Campbell.
AP:
The Mustard: Hurray! I was hoping he'd improve this upcoming season and now I learn he was sick last year. If I decide to wait on a QB again this year - I'll try to snag Cutler. No, I don't expect Romo or Brady stats but he was the 11th ranked QB at the end of year last year. Should he improve by a few spots? I believe so.
The 6-foot-3 Cutler said he dropped from 238 pounds to 203 by season's end but is back up to 220 since beginning insulin injections after he was diagnosed last month.
"I've felt great. I've felt 100 times better," he said. "Just a difference now and four, five weeks ago is tremendous. It's hard to explain what you feel like when your levels are at 400, 500, it's different. You don't have any energy, you don't really want to do anything, you sleep a lot. It's tough to deal with."
The Mustard: Hurray! I was hoping he'd improve this upcoming season and now I learn he was sick last year. If I decide to wait on a QB again this year - I'll try to snag Cutler. No, I don't expect Romo or Brady stats but he was the 11th ranked QB at the end of year last year. Should he improve by a few spots? I believe so.
Thursday, May 1, 2008
Kevin Smith Radar Update
from footballguys:
DET - Lions Sign RB Pinner - RB Corps In Flux
Source: Tom Kowalski, Mlive.com
The signing of Artose Pinner by the Detroit Lions on Wednesday likely means that rookie third-round pick Kevin Smith is the only running back on the roster with a lock on a roster position. The Lions didn't bring in Pinner to carry the ball in preseason mop-up time. He's there to compete for a job and that means that Tatum Bell and Brian Calhoun are on shaky ground.
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Doesn't Barry Sanders seem like eons ago? When Artose Pinner makes news for the Lions, that's a pretty strong statement about where they are today. While we're at it, can Tatum Bell finally deliver? I'm not counting on it.
The Mustard: I think footballguys is missing the point here. Kevin Smith is an early 'sleeper' pick at RB because Detroit is clearly not sold on Bell and we've not seen much from Pinner, who has less than 1000 yards in 6 years. Interestingly enough, his first three were in Detroit.
DET - Lions Sign RB Pinner - RB Corps In Flux
Source: Tom Kowalski, Mlive.com
The signing of Artose Pinner by the Detroit Lions on Wednesday likely means that rookie third-round pick Kevin Smith is the only running back on the roster with a lock on a roster position. The Lions didn't bring in Pinner to carry the ball in preseason mop-up time. He's there to compete for a job and that means that Tatum Bell and Brian Calhoun are on shaky ground.
[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ OUR VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
Doesn't Barry Sanders seem like eons ago? When Artose Pinner makes news for the Lions, that's a pretty strong statement about where they are today. While we're at it, can Tatum Bell finally deliver? I'm not counting on it.
The Mustard: I think footballguys is missing the point here. Kevin Smith is an early 'sleeper' pick at RB because Detroit is clearly not sold on Bell and we've not seen much from Pinner, who has less than 1000 yards in 6 years. Interestingly enough, his first three were in Detroit.
Holmgren Says Its RBBC For Seahawks
clipped again from footballguys.com:
SEA - Holmgren Says Seahawks To Likely Go With RB By Committee
Source: Frank Hughes, Tacoma News Tribune
Coach Mike Holmgren said Rob Sims will be the starting right guard, the running game will be by committee, which means that Mo Morris will be on the roster, and he does not expect one back to ever get 25 carries in a game.
[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ OUR VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
With Julius Jones, T.J. Duckett and Maurice Morris on the roster, it's probably good news for Seahawk fans as that's a talented trio. But probably bad news for anyone owning one of the backs as it's looking like they'll share time. It's still a long ways until September though.
The Mustard: Pretty much what footballguys says. However, Jones was deemed expendable by Dallas and Morris is a good running back. I'd bank more on Morris if I had to gamble with a Seattle running back.
SEA - Holmgren Says Seahawks To Likely Go With RB By Committee
Source: Frank Hughes, Tacoma News Tribune
Coach Mike Holmgren said Rob Sims will be the starting right guard, the running game will be by committee, which means that Mo Morris will be on the roster, and he does not expect one back to ever get 25 carries in a game.
[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ OUR VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
With Julius Jones, T.J. Duckett and Maurice Morris on the roster, it's probably good news for Seahawk fans as that's a talented trio. But probably bad news for anyone owning one of the backs as it's looking like they'll share time. It's still a long ways until September though.
The Mustard: Pretty much what footballguys says. However, Jones was deemed expendable by Dallas and Morris is a good running back. I'd bank more on Morris if I had to gamble with a Seattle running back.
Deion Branch Rehabbing ACL
Clipped from Footballguys.com
May 1, 2008, 12:21 Seahawks :: WRWR Burleson Could Start, Branch Could Miss OpenerFrank Hughes, Tacoma News Tribune - [Full Article]Seahawks HC Mike Holmgren said that WR Nate Burleson would be stripped of his punt-return duties if he is named the starter, although a replacement is currently unknown. Holmgren also said that WR Deion Branch's (ACL) rehab is going well, but that he is not expected to be ready for the season opener.
May 1, 2008, 12:21 Seahawks :: WRWR Burleson Could Start, Branch Could Miss OpenerFrank Hughes, Tacoma News Tribune - [Full Article]Seahawks HC Mike Holmgren said that WR Nate Burleson would be stripped of his punt-return duties if he is named the starter, although a replacement is currently unknown. Holmgren also said that WR Deion Branch's (ACL) rehab is going well, but that he is not expected to be ready for the season opener.
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