Writers of Pro Football Prospectus 2008

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Open Discussion

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ArmchairGM -- All Sports, All You

Open Fantasy Discussion 2008

Talk about all things fantasy in this discussion.

by Anonymous (not verified) :: Sat, 09/13/2008 - 11:48pm

I have McNabb, Rivers, and Kitna, and am wondering who to start in a 1 QB league. I have McNabb starting, but Rivers is in the back of my mind given his past success against Denver.

by Bear (not verified) :: Sun, 09/14/2008 - 10:19am

Ok, everything set except should I start Mushin Mohammed or Patrick Crayton? I know Moose will get lots of attention going back to Chicago, but with S SMith still out- JD still has to throw to him. Meanwhile TO and Witten will get all attention by Philly defense- could mean Crayton have big game??

by Anonymous (not verified) :: Thu, 09/18/2008 - 12:33am

I started McNabb on my www.paythefan.com team and came real close to winning the $10,000 this week. I hope I can win it next week!

by Marcumzilla :: Fri, 09/19/2008 - 12:43pm

If this keeps up, I suggest not allowing anonymous comments.

Also, how did the ad get rated up?

by Ravenmania :: Thu, 09/25/2008 - 11:28am

Denver has been winning, but thier defense has been atrocious against even Oakland. I'd start Rivers. Especially with Chambers playing good and LT not being 100% yet. Only issue is if they get up big they might start to pound it on the Broncos.

NFL Network can keep Brian Billick

by thestar5 (not verified) :: Sun, 09/14/2008 - 4:24am

I'd go with McNabb, because he's more likely to be playing from behind, so more passing.

Okay my dilemma. My league: All TD's 6 points, 1 point per 10 yards rushing/receiving, 1 point per reception.

Since Andre Johnson isn't playing, I need someone else to fill my flex position. Whose the best of Sammy Morris (@ Jets, but I'm already starting Maroney, ahh!), Mendenhall (@ Browns), Jamaal Charles (vs. Raiders, very intruiging because LJ looks bad,and he could get some receptions), Bryant Johnson (@ Seahawks), or Arnaz Battle (@ Seahawks)?

And yes I realize these aren't great options, to put it lightly.

by roguerouge :: Sun, 09/14/2008 - 7:34am

Go with Mendenhall. He might snag you a TD. With Faulk back from suspension, you've got a 3-headed RBBC in NE. Morris loses out on the passing downs he was in for in week 1.

by roguerouge :: Sun, 09/14/2008 - 7:31am

I've got four options for two spots (RB, and Flex):

Grant RB @ Det (he's listed as questionable)
A Gonzalez WR @ Min
J Lewis RB vs. Pitt
F Taylor RB vs. Buf

League gives 1 point for every 20 yards rushing or passing, 6 points for TDs.

by johnnyxel :: Sun, 09/14/2008 - 8:15am

I'd be very hesitant with Fred Taylor with only starting tackles in front. If Grant is available, you have to play him: Detroit looked like they thought it was two-hand touch last week. I'd probably roll Gonzalez/Grant or Gonzalez/Lewis. Don't know how late you can make that choice, but I'd wait until the last second to bench Grant.

I have a matchup nightmare with my opponent this week, and my Defense just became Oakland due to the postponement of the Ravens@Texans to week 10. Should I go out on a limb and start "Matty Ice" Ryan over David Garrard? Or even farther out and also start Mendenhall over Maroney?

by roguerouge :: Sun, 09/14/2008 - 8:50am

Start Garrard and Maroney. Last week was Jump to Concusions week. Stick to your drafting guns.

by johnnyxel :: Sun, 09/14/2008 - 9:00am

There you go being the voice of reason.

by andrew :: Sun, 09/14/2008 - 10:23am

I have a feeling Gonzales is going to have a monster day.

by andrew :: Mon, 09/15/2008 - 2:46pm

Sigh, I hate being right. He killed my team.

by roguerouge :: Sun, 09/14/2008 - 8:52am

Another who to start question: Start 2 (1 point/10 yards, 6 pts/TD)

B Jacobs @ StL
W Parker @ Cle
C Johnson @ Cin
M Forte @ Car
E Graham vs. Atl
J Lewis vs. Pitt

by PFC1 (not verified) :: Sun, 09/14/2008 - 9:23am

Take this with a grain of salt (see my prior post-- I sucked last week.) I like B Jacobs to run all over St. Louis. I also Like C Johnson to run all over Cincinatti. Those are the two I plan to start in my league.

by PFC1 (not verified) :: Sun, 09/14/2008 - 9:18am

Help! DeSean Jackson OR Eddie Royal.

Short Question: Pick 3 of 4: Galloway, Holt,DeSean Jackson, or Eddie Royal?

Long Question: So my first week absolutely sucked, which gave me first dibs on two free agents. I thought I was the weakest at WR so I picked up both DeSean Jackson AND Eddie Royal. I need to start 3 WRs. I plan to start Torry Holt and Joey Galloway, as I think its too early to bench them (although I did bring them into the coaches office for a serious heart to heart.) So which rookie do I put in at WR3?

by roguerouge :: Sun, 09/14/2008 - 9:44am

Yikes. I guess Royal, as Merriman's out for the first time this week, which may make the matchup slightly less awful than the one that Jackson's facing.

by roguerouge :: Mon, 09/15/2008 - 7:29am

Not a big day for Royal, with five catches for 37 yards, but two of those were a TD and a 2 point conversion. Did you start him?

by PFC1 (not verified) :: Wed, 09/17/2008 - 10:39pm

Yeah, started him. Funny that he and Jackson scored exactly the same number of points. If I had only started both, and benched Joey Galloway, I would have had my first win.

by Resident Jenius (not verified) :: Sun, 09/14/2008 - 10:12am

So. Like many FO readers I have the Ravens D/ST. With Baltimore getting a last minute by-week what D/ST should I pick up? I'm flirting with San Fransico since Seattle has no wideouts. Thoughts?

by thestar5 (not verified) :: Sun, 09/14/2008 - 11:20am

Are the Saints available? I picked them up because of how disastrous the Skins offense looked last week, but the niners are probably a decent pick too.

by BucNasty :: Mon, 09/15/2008 - 9:17am

I played matchups and picked up Carolina (vs Chi). Good for 6 points. Pittsburgh and Tennessee were both available, but I was wary.

I think I'm gonna start leaving Galloway on the bench and start having faith in Lee Evans. I need McNabb and Westbrook to both have monster games (50 points between them) to have a shot this week. This week has been full of come from behind victories in the NFL, so why shouldn't my fantasy team also join in the fun?

by DaveP :: Wed, 09/17/2008 - 10:21am

I played late and grabbed the only D available, Cleveland. Good for 7 points and the win, but I think I hurt my brain during the game because I was also playing Big Ben, Holmes and Miller. Kept hoping for a Willie Parker fumble to be run back for a touch down (<:

by SideshowTootie (not verified) :: Sun, 09/14/2008 - 12:32pm

I'm having trouble picking between:
WR: Torry Holt, Eddie Royal, Anthony Gonzalez (pick 2)
RB: Edgerrin James, Chris Johnson

Any thoughts?

by DaveP :: Wed, 09/17/2008 - 10:31am

Royal against NO. Look what Campbell did to them last week. Look what Cutler did
to SD. I'd expect more of the same.

Gonzalez because Peyton's going to have to take it on his back again to try and win so he's going to air it out and Gonzalez should benefit.

Not Holt because you don't want to trust anything to the Rams right now.

At least I hope so because I'm going to be playing both of them!

by Andrew H (not verified) :: Mon, 09/15/2008 - 9:13am

Question: In a Yahoo fantasy league, all of my opponent's players and all of my players except the Dallas Defense have played, and I am up by a very small margin (1.2 points). I am worried about DAL/PHI being a shootout where Dallas's D ends up with negative points for the game. Is there any reason, other than potential end-of-season tiebreakers, to leave the Dallas D in and risk a negative point total rather than take them out for what looks like a sure win? Basically, I want to know if Yahoo leagues have a history of late re-adjustments to stats, which could possibly screw up my plans. Thanks.

by Anonymous (not verified) :: Mon, 09/15/2008 - 5:02pm

I'm not entirely sure what it is your scared about, but I've done Yahoo for a number of years. I'm taking it your in a custom league, so I'm not sure how defense is scored, but I do know that in most Yahoo leagues, custom or not, defense is left alone, which means the worst you can end up with is -4 points. But do you honestly see Philly scoring 35 points? As long as it's under 35, the worst you can do is -1. I think your safe to play the Dallas defense, but only if points matter and not yards. I think that Westbrook will have his yards, as will McNabb, probably, but I don't see them scoring that much.

Whats your other option? Nothing? Can you do that?

by Paydro :: Mon, 09/15/2008 - 6:42pm

He's got the victory locked up, so he's scared that negative points from his defense, however unlikely, will cost it for him. Yes, in yahoo, you can decline to start a defense.

Total points acts as a tiebreaker at the end of the year, so generally speaking it'd be worth your while to play Dallas. However, with the margin that close, and Philly looking very good week 1, I would definitely not do it to get the win week 1.

by Drunkmonkey :: Mon, 09/15/2008 - 6:55pm

Gotcha, I didn't understand what he meant. Yeah, that would suck if it did come back to bite you in the end. I think you should go ahead and start them, provided of course it's only based on points, and not yards. Traditionally, the Philly defense has had good games against Romo, so I would like to think they will today. I have Philly's defense in one league on Yahoo! and Dallas's defense is playing against me in another one that I've won unless they come up with a shutout and 9 Int's.

That is a good point, though, about the tie-breakers, I'll have to keep that in mind when I'm starting other defenses.

by roguerouge :: Tue, 09/16/2008 - 8:53am

And... final score 41-37, although the Dallas D did get 1 fumble recovery and 4 sacks. If special teams counts, then you had a TD from Jones in there too. Hope it worked out for you.

by Anonymous (not verified) :: Mon, 09/15/2008 - 5:11pm

Does anybody have any news on Fargas and Tomlinson? I really want to drop Fargas, especially since I have Stewart waiting on the bench (Oh man, I lost by two points, and I had Cutler and Stewart riding the bench for Brees and Fargas, how stupid can I get? I deserved to loose that game) so I don't really want to hang on to him. Not only that, but I think the Raiders really like the duo of Bush and McFadden, which leaves Fargas out. Right?

I figured I'd drop him and pick up Sproles, but only if Tomlinson is indeed hurt enough to give Sproles a few carries. I don't want to pick him up and see Tomlinson get back and keep all the carries. Especially since they're playing the Cowboys.

Thoughts?

by roguerouge :: Tue, 09/16/2008 - 8:54am

You weren't stupid to start Brees, especially since Cutler was facing what's supposed to be a good SD defense. Just because the result was bad doesn't mean you made the wrong decision.

by andrew :: Mon, 09/15/2008 - 5:39pm

Is this just going to be one huge fantasy thread for the entire year?

I'd rather have a new one each week... this will get unwieldy elsewise.

by Anonymous (not verified) :: Mon, 09/15/2008 - 6:04pm

Yeah, not gonna lie, that is one thing I did like from the old site, the discussion forums. Other than that, I love the new site, but I just think this is gonna be extremely disorganized. Why didn't the FO guys want to keep it?

by roguerouge :: Tue, 09/16/2008 - 8:58am

Yes. This will become unwieldy in a month or two. No way to easily find threads that have updated with new replies.

by Marcumzilla :: Wed, 09/17/2008 - 10:32am

Count me among those who think the forum works better for fantasy discussion. Plus, the timing of removing the forum cut me off in the middle of an exchange or two regarding strategy.

by andrew :: Mon, 09/15/2008 - 6:11pm

I think these forums can do all the old ones could and more, they just need to be tweaked and have more stuff set up, and hopefully with the feedback they're getting they will be that way soon.

by Drunkmonkey :: Mon, 09/15/2008 - 6:52pm

I guess my only issue is that I liked how there used to be threads for specific topics, even if they went a bit overboard, and there were 200 different threads. I'm less inclined to come here for fantasy info simply because I have to read everything to find what I want, or just post my question, hope somebody answers, and hope nobody already asked the question, which would make me look stupid.

by ErrantNight :: Thu, 10/02/2008 - 4:11pm

No, they're studiously ignoring the awfulness of these discussion threads.

Either nobody spent even 5 minutes thinking about this would actually look/work, or they were ready to go with the redesign, know these suck, but weren't going to delay the revamp to work on fixing these, or they don't really care to encourage this type of conversation on this site. Or, I suppose, they're a collective group of morons who really think this is an improvement. I LARGELY suspect this last "suppose" is not the case, after all, the revamp is otherwise awesome and the content top notch. I just don't know if they don't which of the others it is, and why no one from the site has spent two seconds to step in and say: this is all we got for now, or: this is temporary, or: whatever else.

Very frustrating.

by TCH (not verified) :: Mon, 09/15/2008 - 8:38pm

Someone just offered me Crayton and M. Turner in an 8 team keeper league in exchange for Reggie Wayne.
...
LOL

by Pimp Juice (not verified) :: Mon, 09/15/2008 - 11:05pm

I have Kurt Warner, Matt Schaub and Eli Manning at QB; Ladainian and Laurence Maroney at RB. With the injuries I want to more strength at RB.

I got a trade offer of Willie Parker straight up for Eli.

I also have a trade pending where I trade Kurt Warner for Chris Johnson.

Which, if any, is the best?

by Drunkmonkey :: Mon, 09/15/2008 - 11:34pm

I think I'd do the Willie Parker trade, simply because Warner has more weapons to throw to, therefore he's more likely to score you more points. However, I also think Warner won't finish the season, so in the long run, it might be best to hold onto Eli.
On the other hand, I also am holding on to Mendenhall, figuring that Parker is going to bet overused at some point, and I'll be sitting on a gem. So that would be two reasons to get Johnson, and one to get Willie. Hope that helps.

by Mystyc :: Tue, 09/16/2008 - 2:31am

I've been offered Carson Palmer and TJ Houshmanzadeh for Philip Rivers. I have McNabb as my starter, and Trent Edwards is a free agent, so I wouldn't be losing a ton, but are Cincinnati players even worth having anymore?

by Kim McQuilken..... :: Wed, 09/17/2008 - 8:32pm

Housh is still a solid WR... this deal is probably worth doing just for him. McNabb is better than Rivers most weeks, and Cincinnati is bound to get involved in a shootout as soon as they stop playing the likes of the Ravens and Titans.

by bigdrov1x :: Tue, 09/16/2008 - 5:56am

I have Jay Cutler and Tony Romo on my bench. I am weak at receiver I only have Hines Ward who is any good. I have Chad Johnson it looks like it will be a long year for Cincinati. I am trying to get Driver and Welker for Cutler. I am in a pts per reception league. What is Cutlers relative value? any response is appreciated.

by BucNasty :: Tue, 09/16/2008 - 6:27pm

Damn botched handoff and ensuing sacks cost me the game by .6 points yesterday. Oh well.

Sit/Start Week 3

R/W (pick 1):
E. Graham (at Chi); D. Sproles (vs. NYJ); MJD (at Indy)

WR (pick 2):
S. Holmes (at Philly); R. White (vs KC); L. Evans (vs. Oak); A. Gonzales (vs. Jax)

Just dropped Maroney for Sproles. Graham's not getting a whole lot of touches but is managing to break off a long run each game to make up for it. I don't see that happening against Chicago, though I can imagine a ton of dumpoffs for like 40-50 yards to go with about as many yards on the ground and possibly a touchdown. I'm leaning towards MJD because he typically destroys Indy's run D, which has regressed to 2006 regular season mode. But with the Jags' line in shambles and the stat lines he's been posting, I have no confidence in him.

I'm also flirting with the idea of dropping either Galloway or Maroney for Isaac Bruce, at least for this week (vs Detroit).

by Paydro :: Tue, 09/16/2008 - 9:51pm

To me it's gotta be MJD for the RB slot... Indy's run D has looked porous, Graham has a bad matchup, and Sproles is dependent on how injured LDT is, which you may not know until the game starts.

As for the WRs, I would say Holmes and Evans, unless Clark is injured, in which case Gonzalez replaces Evans. Good luck.

by Marcumzilla :: Wed, 09/17/2008 - 10:36am

As bad as the Jag's OLine remnant has looked, Bob Sanders is now out 4-6. Bad news for me and Indy, good news for my fantasy team (I also have MJD).

by Red Hedgehog (not verified) :: Tue, 09/16/2008 - 4:34pm

First league: 1/25 yards passing, 6/passing/receiving/rushing TD, no PPR, otherwise standard

Which QB to start: Garrard at Ind, Griese at Chi, Collins vs. Hou, O'Sullivan vs. Det

(I'm leaning Collins or O'Sullivan - heck, if Detroit can make a rookie look good...)

RB (pick 2): Graham at Chi, Johnson vs. Hou, Jones-Drew at Ind

(Also, is it worth dropping Mendenhall to get Sproles or Norwood?)

2nd league: Same as above, but 1 PPR.

RB (pick 2): Johnson vs Hou, Norwood vs KC, James @ Was, Brown @ NE, Slaton @ TE.

Also, is it worth dropping any of the above (or possibly my backup QB Collins) to get Sproles?

by Paydro :: Tue, 09/16/2008 - 8:29pm

Like some of the commenters above, I need full-team advice. I've been active on the waiver wire, so I have some good options:
QB - Ben @PHI or Warner@WAS. Washington has been the better defense so far, but Ben is kind of hurt, and Warner just had an incredible week.
WR/RB (Pick 3, I've excluded Burress and Portis from this discussion) - Graham@CHI, Chris Johnson v. HOU, Grant v. DAL, Sproles v. NYJ, A.Gonzalez v. JAX, Jennings v. DAL.

At the moment, unless I hear some seriously bad news about LDT, I'm leaning towards Johnson, Jennings, and Gonzalez (because I'm guessing Clark will still be out).

by Marcumzilla :: Wed, 09/17/2008 - 1:56pm

2QB league, 6pts/TD. I have Manning (Jax), O'Sullivan (Det), and Ryan (KC). Manning has the worst matchup, but he's also Peyton Manning. I'm leaning towards O'Sullivan, but both him and Ryan have good looking matchups.

------------

Pick 3 of: LDT (NYJ), Graham(Chi), J Jones(StL), Chris Johnson(Hou), Sproles(NYJ). I'm leaning towards the last three.

Also, for TE, H Miller or Fasano

------------

TD-heavy league (bonus for long TDs, 1pt per 50 RuYd/50 RecYd/150 PaYd). I need two out of this list, with at least one WR. I'm leaning towards J Jones and Royal, with Gonzalez closely behind.

J Jones, R Grant, T Hightower,
M Harrison, A Gonzalez, Chad Johnson (bad matchup - NYG), E Royal (most productive so far), J Hardy (Hall on him?), S Rice (with Ferrote now at QB)

For QB: Rodgers (Dal) or Favre (SD)

by Paydro :: Wed, 09/17/2008 - 8:36pm

That's not just a TD heavy league, that's a TD ONLY league. Jones is mandatory, but the WRs are tougher... I don't like the idea of Royal, despite his TDs; I'd probably go with one of the Indy guys, of which Harrison is probably more likely to get a TD.

For the QBs, I'd go Rodgers, that game will probably be a shootout.

In the top league, it's obviously Peyton and O'Sullivan, I don't know how anyone could start Ryan after last week. I'd stick with Heath Miller, as well.

LDT/Sproles is obviously a game-time kind of deal, you'll be guessing which one gets the fantasy points. Graham's matchup is terrible, so I'd go with Jones and Johnson for sure.

by Drunkmonkey :: Wed, 09/17/2008 - 2:54pm

Basic Yahoo! league, trade offered to me:

I get: Trent Edwards, Reggie Wayne, and Micheal Turner
He gets: Drew Brees, Jonathan Stewart, and Bryant Johnson

I already have Cutler, Addai, McGahee, and Calvin Johnson, but I really need another good WR. I figured this is a good trade, because even if Stewart is going to start getting the lion's share of the carries in Carolina, Steve Smith is coming back, so they won't run that often and Turner should be running more now that they realize that they won't be playing the Lions every week and will need to run to keep Ryan from losing all his confidence.

Should I do it?

by Anonymous (not verified) :: Wed, 09/17/2008 - 4:47pm

yeah You have Cutler so you aren't losing much at all

by Costa :: Wed, 09/17/2008 - 6:15pm

I'd say that's a slam dunk for you. I'd take it in a second.

by Anonymous (not verified) :: Wed, 09/17/2008 - 4:51pm

Who to start?

At my flex option I have Maroney, Pierre Thomas, Tim Hightower, or Chris Perry.

I am confused so anything would help.

by Drunkmonkey :: Wed, 09/17/2008 - 5:13pm

Well, Maroney missed practice today:
http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/09/17/maroney-misses-practice-for-pa...

Even if healthy, I remember hearing somewhere that Lamont Jordon was reported to be getting some serious work in practice. Although the above article does say that he also missed practice. I'm not so high on Maroney fantasy wise simply because the team hasn't really given any running back a good work load in any recent year.

I think Thomas is your best option since he is playing the Broncos, who haven't shown the ability to stop the run yet, and Thomas has been getting quite a few red zone carries. Watch out for McCallister sightings, though. I read an article (can't find it right now) on NFL.com saying that McCallister is getting more work in order to make him a bigger part of the offense.

I'm not sold on the Card's commitment to the running game right now, given the production their passing attack has shown thus far. And Cinncy is just a mess.

by Costa :: Wed, 09/17/2008 - 5:43pm

My turn:

QB - Roethlisberger (atPHI) or Kurt Warner (vsWSH)
RBx2 - MB3 (atGB), Joseph Addai (vsJAC) and Chris Johnson (vsHOU)
WRx2 - Anquan Boldin (vsWSH), Santonio Holmes (atPHI) and Santana Moss (atARZ)

by Costa :: Wed, 09/17/2008 - 6:09pm

And if you guys will allow me to throw in a second question... ^_^

One of the GMs in my league has both Peyton Manning and Jay Cutler. He started Cutler last week, who's looking stellar fantasy-wise so far, so I'm wondering if I can maybe tempt him to let go of Peyton. Does anyone have any suggestions for interesting trade combinations?

My team:
QB: Roethlisberger, Warner, Schaub
RB: Addai, MB3, Chris Johnson, Slaton
QR: Colston (IR), Boldin, Santonio Holmes, Santana Moss
TE: Cooley, Fasano, Utecht (IR)
K: Mason Crosby
DST: GB, BAL

His team:
QB: Cutler, Manning, Jason Campbell
RB: Gore, Portis, Brandon Jacobs, LenDale White
WR: Fitzgerald, Bowe, Holt
TE: Shockey, Keller
K: Gostkowski, Kasay
DST: PIT, TEN

We start 2 RBs, 2 WRs and 1 of everything else per week.

by Kim McQuilken..... :: Wed, 09/17/2008 - 8:29pm

Geez, both teams are stacked... 8 team league?

His only weakness appears to be WR... try trading Boldin and Roethlisberger/Warner (his pick) for Manning and Bowe/Holt. You could offer to swap defenses too... GB and BAL are more highly rated than PIT or TEN, but might not be that much better.

by Anonymous (not verified) :: Thu, 09/18/2008 - 12:02am

10-team actually, so still small, but yes, I'd say we're two of the top three.

Thanks for the input. I'd definitely prefer to have Bowe rather than Holt in that combo considering Bulger's getting less than a hiccup's worth of time to throw.

by Costa :: Thu, 09/18/2008 - 12:14am

Oops, yeah that was me.

by Paydro :: Thu, 09/18/2008 - 1:34pm

...it's mostly the RBs that are crazy. Getting Barber AND Addai means one of them slipped into the second, and your opponent somehow got Peyton Manning or Larry Fitzgerald in the fourth round.

Anyway, I don't know what you'd be getting out of him. Obviously not an RB, so a WR until Colston comes back? Unless you can get Manning for a non-starter I don't see what you're going to do.

by Costa :: Thu, 09/18/2008 - 4:01pm

Hmm, lemme see if I remember... I had the last pick, so my picks were each paired. Grabbed Addai and Roethlisberger in the first two rounds and then Colston and Barber as last-of-3rd-first-of-4th. Manning was his first round pick, then I can't remember if he got Gore in the 2nd and Fitzgerald in the 3rd or if it was the other way around. As for Cutler, none of us had him targeted as our starter, so he managed to land him pretty late. One of the GMs favored Eli Manning over him, another favored Hasselbeck and another favored McNabb, so Cutler hung around.

by Paydro :: Thu, 09/18/2008 - 4:35pm

Umm, wow... that's even crazier than I thought, A) that you took Big Ben with pick #11, and B) that no one in your league picked Barber through pick #29. Actually, if Manning was his #1 and Gore his #2, Fitzgerald even his #3, that means Clinton Portis was a FOURTH round pick?

Is there some sort of insane scoring going on here? I would love to be in a league where I could use my 3rd and 4th rounders on Barber and Portis, who I would be thrilled to take #10 and #11 (in fact I did take Portis #10).

by Costa :: Thu, 09/18/2008 - 5:34pm

The different-from-the-norm scoring rules are that passing TDs give a full 6 points instead of the usual 4, which raises the value of QBs in our league, and that receptions give a point, which raises the value of pass catching RBs like Steven Jackson and Reggie Bush or high reception count guys like Welker and Houshmandzadeh last year. Overall, passing gets a bump over running overall, so RBs who don't catch a whole lot of passes like Portis lose out a bit. That's also why I didn't want the first round to go by without taking a QB, so I took the one I liked best after Brady, Manning, Romo and Brees were gone. I imagine a lot of people had the same thought.

Anyway, so as not to bother the other readers with the details of my own FF league :P, I put the draft order up until I got Colston here if you want to check it out. There's surely a few picks that I was not sad to see go off while MB3 was still there, but overall, I wouldn't call it all that ridiculous.

by Marcumzilla :: Fri, 09/19/2008 - 12:53pm

I still think it's a crazy draft order. Six points for passing TDs isn't that uncommon of a setup; every league I've played in has been one. None of them, including the PPR leagues, have had such skewed drafting. The only way that many QBs should come off the board that quickly is if it's a 2-QB league. Even after that big run on QBs, two teams still hadn't taken them, but look who's left: McNabb, Rivers, Favre, Garrard, Cutler, Rivers, Rodgers... I can't help but think that a few of the teams would have been so much better had they taken a stronger RB/WR early on. If everyone else jumps on a QB after that initial run, that only helps the people who grabbed them in the first round, since those people drafting round 6-10 QB talent in rounds 2-3 are leaving the round 2-3 RB/WR talent for them.

For comparison, in the 10 team 6pts/TD 1ppr league last year, I believe there were four QBs taken by the end of round four: Manning (late 1), Brees (2?), Palmer (?), and Brady (4).

I think you got a great team, but it could have been even better. If I were you, I'd use the fact that they overcompensate on their QB-drafting strategy for the 6pts/TD against them next year.

by Marcumzilla :: Wed, 09/17/2008 - 6:33pm

To kick back up a discussion that was cut-off with the site upgrade, with some of the discarded ideas gone:

Keeper auction league. Very basics are 10 teams, 6pts/all TDs, $200 cap, keep up to 5 players at a $3 higher salary from year to year, can keep as long as you want, just gets more expensive. Deep starters - 2QB, 3 RB, 4 WR, 1 RB/WR, 1 TE, 1 WR/TE, 2 K, 3 IDP; shallow benches - 6 offense, 3 defense. Bench players are snaked drafted after starters are auctioned, with a default $1 value; you can't bid to have better backups. WW transactions are only three last-first rounds on Sat before weeks 5 and 10. No playoffs, just a 17 week regular season.

QB: Brady ($19), Manning ($58), O'Sullivan ($1), Ryan ($1)
RB: MJD ($7), Graham ($4), Portis ($23), Mendenhall ($1), Slaton ($1), Betts ($1)
WR: Driver ($20), Cotchery ($28), Burleson ($8), Hackett ($1), Bryant Johnson ($1), Meachem ($1), Sweed ($1)
TE: Winslow ($24)

I obviously took several hits in week 1. I've still managed to win both games so far. What I've debated was a package where I deal Brady (as a keeper) and likely Burleson (salary cap reasons only) to make a better run of it this year. I've mostly looked at a better QB and/or WR upgrades. I'm still only brainstorming, since I wouldn't mind holding on to him. However, I am a bit cramped in roster space keeping him, plus Manning, plus two QBs to play matchup on. I'd like to pick up some WR help, I need a bye-week TE, both of my Ks have the same bye, and one of my IDPs is barely playing, so I wouldn't mind snagging a backup. Back to earlier, I only have three picks to do that, so I need to do something (even if it only means trading kickers straight up with someone). My original plan was dropping one QB for a TE. Brady and Manning both having a week 4 bye meant needing two backups, something that worked to my favor to soften the blow of the Brady injury.

Salary and roster requirements make it more difficult, and it would probably involve some players who play this year from my team as well. The first two owners I mention have more flexibility for these deals.

I could probably trade Brady and Burleson for Burress and someone else (Brees ideally, in part to keep the alliteration). He seemed to be willing to deal Kitna + Burress, which turns out to be hard to make work for salary. He also have Brees, but for cheap, and he is wanting to hold on to him.

The owner of Ocho Cinco has made it clear he'd like to trade him. He's the same salary as Brady, but doesn't have many more yards receiving than I do. Still, his upside is better than a couple of my WRs. This owner has Jason Campbell for $1, and I could try for Campbell + Johnson. It's not as much as I'd like for Brady, but if Campbell plays more like he did in week two than in week one and the preseason, that may be decent. He also has Cutler and Garrard.

I've looked for owners with 3 serviceable or better QBs. One has Anderson, Schaub, and Warner. Another has Hasselbeck, Favre, and Edwards. Deals with either team would have to involve other players due to salary concerns.

I know it's harder to figure out without everyone's roster, and I don't want to make this that much longer. I still have a good team, but it feels more like a crapshoot than I-should-win-most-weeks. I'd like to solidify my team, but on the other hand I don't want to cripple my future for pennies on the dollar.

by Kim McQuilken..... :: Wed, 09/17/2008 - 8:25pm

I have a trade dilemma... I have been offered Heath Miller (TE) for Dante Rosario (TE). I'm in a league with 25 yds/point, 6 points per TD, and 0.5 points/rec.

I'm a little wary of how little Miller has been used this season, but Rosario is still an unknown, plus he's a little banged up. Either player would be my primary starter - my other TE is Randy McMichael.

I'm leaning toward keeping Rosario... any thoughts?

by Costa :: Thu, 09/18/2008 - 12:13am

Tough call. I'm partial to known quantities myself, so I'd probably accept it, especially if that wasn't a mistake when you said 25 yds/pt instead of 10. That's a pretty TD heavy scoring system, and Miller tends to be more of a Bubba Franks, lotsa TDs not so much yards type of guy.

by Paydro :: Thu, 09/18/2008 - 1:37pm

In my opinion you would have to be a crazy person not to accept this trade. I am a Panthers fan, but Rosario is a backup TE in a run-heavy offense that is about to add its #1 WR back. Take Miller and laugh all the way to the bank.

by Drunkmonkey :: Wed, 09/17/2008 - 8:36pm

Scanning the waiver wire today, I found that Jacksonville's defense is available. I am last on the waiver claim list, but Baltimore's defense is also available, and there really is only one guy who needs a defense (the guy who dropped him last week because they weren't going to play and needed to find a defense without giving up a player). Should I pick them up? I won't have to play them this week, I have Minny's defense for that, but Minny will eventually have a bye week, and I have Washington for week 8, as they are playing the Lions. Should I pick up Jacksonville? They would be an improvement on Washington, and they are playing Cleveland that week.

by Anonymous (not verified) :: Thu, 09/18/2008 - 12:30am

Brady being out, does not affect My team at www.paythefan.com

Since you have the choice to start anyone

by Costa :: Fri, 09/19/2008 - 11:40am

Is there anyone moderating this thread to remove these stupid ads?

by nojo :: Fri, 09/19/2008 - 2:47pm

Okay, how did you guys manage to give this a 0 star rating? I can't figure out how to give any fewer than 1.

by Costa :: Fri, 09/19/2008 - 5:11pm

There should be a number zero to the left of the stars that changes from grey to black when you mouse over it.

by Mahoney (not verified) :: Thu, 09/18/2008 - 2:02am

I was just offered a trade where I would give up Ladanian for Steve Smith and Frank Gore... I kinda like this because I'm a little worried with Ladanian's foot and how thats going to affect him. Anyone have an opinion?

by Drunkmonkey :: Thu, 09/18/2008 - 8:31am

Not that I'm cheering for LT to have an injury, he's one of my favorite players, but I kinda hope he does, because I'm starting Sproles this week over McGahee. I also know that LT didn't practice this Wednesday, but then again, that hasn't stopped him before. Unless you absolutely have to make this trade now, I'd wait til Friday or Saturday to see what his condition for the week is.

Separate Question: Does anybody else see a HUGE day for Steve Smith coming? I mean, B.Marshall was suspended for a game and came back with 18 catches. Does anybody see something like that for Smith? (Yes, thats the homerism in me coming out)

by Concrete Jungle :: Thu, 09/18/2008 - 7:43am

Pick 2 RBs and 3 WRs from the following to start

T Jones @ SD
Addai @ Jac
Sproles vs NYJ

Owens @ GB
Burress vs CIN
Ward @ PHI
Steve Smith @ MIN
DeSean Jackson vs PIT
Vincent Jackson vs NYJ

1 pt for 10 yard 6 pts all TDs and 1 pt 20 return yards.

Picked up Sproles on the waiver wire this week and am considering starting him over the weaker of my two RBs, probably Addai due to the Colts line troubles and that they are away to Jacksonville. For WRS I think Burress and Owens are must plays but the third spot is a bit more diifcult, leaning towards Smith right now.

by Marcumzilla :: Thu, 09/18/2008 - 11:22am

I'd hold off as long as you can on deciding the RBs to see what LDT's health situation is.

I agree about Owens and Burress. I'd lean towards Steve Smith for the other, since Minn's secondary n't too strong. I could see going with the hot hand for DeSean Jackson, or even Ward.

by DGL :: Thu, 09/18/2008 - 9:47am

OK, I've got LDT.

Question 1: If he's scratched before game time Sunday, do I start Sammy Morris (vs MIA), or do I slide Earnest Graham from flex to RB and start Driver (vs DAL) or possibly Berrian (vs CAR)?

Question 2: Since LDT probably won't be scratched, is one of those options compelling enough to bench him because his third week might be like weeks 1 and 2?

Basic ESPN scoring (1 pt/10 yds rush/rec, 6 pts TD).

by Costa :: Thu, 09/18/2008 - 10:23am

From what I'm reading, it's looking like Lamont Jordan has been moved to the top of the heap in the NE running hierarchy, so I would probably avoid any scenario that has you playing Sammy Morris this week. That can basically be applied to both your questions.

by DGL :: Thu, 09/18/2008 - 9:47am

One more question - my QB draft was weak (poor autopick setup) so I've got Kitna, and just snagged JT O'Sullivan off waivers. Which is a better start this week, Kitna vs. SF or O'Sullivan vs. DET?

Again, basic ESPN scoring (1 pt/25 yds passing, 10 yds rushing, 4 pts pass TD, 6 pts rush TD).

by ErrantNight :: Thu, 09/18/2008 - 2:45pm

Can I just say that not having different threads is an awful, terrible idea.

The threading of the discussion is a nice new touch, but it's just as unwieldy as ever.

Hopefully this is a temporary state of affairs, as the one thing that really worked from the old site was the message boards (except for the impediments to being granted access to post).

This new lay-out makes me not want to even try... much more daunting and oppressive to discussion than the sign-up hassles of before.

by Red Hedgehog (not verified) :: Fri, 09/19/2008 - 5:13pm

Man, I agree with this 100%

by Anonymous (not verified) :: Thu, 09/18/2008 - 8:03pm

Okay I've got fairly tough matchups facing most of my RB's

I already know I'm going with Brandon Jacobs. I need to pick 2 more from the following:
LT @ NYJ
MJD @ IND
Jonathan Stewart @ MIN
Sproles @ NYJ
Slaton @ TEN

1point/10yds 6/TD

by Drunkmonkey :: Fri, 09/19/2008 - 10:09am

I'd definitely go with MJD. They already have a really bad run defense, and with Sanders gone, that makes that choice even better. I'm waiting for more information regarding who is going to get the most snaps in San Diego, because I have Sproles myself, and want to know if it's worth starting him over McGahee. Depending on what happens, start the SD back who you think will get the most chances to score.

by Anonymous (not verified) :: Fri, 09/19/2008 - 10:48am

I'm hesitant with MJD because he has that ankle sprain, his O-line is decimated, and his production so far has not been stellar.

by Drunkmonkey :: Fri, 09/19/2008 - 12:52pm

While those are completely valid reasons to hold off on MJD, from everything I've heard, he is gonna be a go for the next game, and the first two defenses the Jags faced are pretty good. Indy is no Tennessee, or apparently Buffalo, on defense. The O-line does scare the crap out of me, but Neole is a good signing, and I think that the loss of Ed Johnson is gonna really help the Jags up the middle.

If MJD screws me royally again this week, then I'm not gonna defend him for the rest of the year. I didn't expect much from him last week, I figured the O-line was gonna suck anyways, but he gave me next to nothing.

by Drunkmonkey :: Fri, 09/19/2008 - 10:12am

Defense question here:
I already have Philly and Tampa Bay. Basic Yahoo! league, so I only get points for the defense, not special teams. I'm considering dropping TB, since Philly is rated as the better defense in PFP, and picking up random defenses based on matchups for the week. This week it would be Atlanta, as their facing a Chiefs offense with an unhappy LJ. Should I do that?

by RMGreen :: Fri, 09/19/2008 - 11:29am

I've been offered the following trade in an 18 team league:

He will send me:

RB Felix Jones
TE Anthony Fasano

I am to send to him:

WR Bryant Johnson

I've got a pretty big hole at RB with Jones-Drew and Fargas hurt. But my next WR after Johnson is Marty Booker, and Jones isn't even a starter, so there's no guarantee he'll necessarily be an upgrade. Any thoughts?

by Costa :: Fri, 09/19/2008 - 11:47am

Unexpected RB options tend to pop up as the season progresses, and with JT O'Sullivan looking quite competent as time went on last week, that makes the potential of the Mike Martz 49ers offense look intriguing to me. I think I would hold off.

by keith (not verified) :: Fri, 09/19/2008 - 3:40pm

Hey, who should I start at the following positions?

Flex Position:

Felix Jones DAL vs GB (Phillips said they wanted to use him more)
Michael Bush OAK vs Buffalo (McFadden and Fargas are banged up)

WR:

D Patten NO (ugh colston injury) vs DEN
Reggie Brown PHI (first game back, what will happen!?) vs PITT

I supposed I can bench both RB and start both WR but I don't know how wise that is. Help!

BTW, its an ESPN league I think its like 6/td 1/10 yards

by Costa :: Fri, 09/19/2008 - 5:14pm

I'd go with Bush. The WR is option is a toss up. I'd probably go with Patten since I expect there to be more offense in that game.

by DaveP :: Fri, 09/19/2008 - 4:27pm

Fargas and Taylor are obviously doing nothing for me. I picked up Bush to replace Fargas, but McFadden was already gone. Looks like time to lean on the WRs instead.
I'm starting Burress and need to pick two from DeSean Jackson, Anthony Gonzalez, Eddie Royal and Santonio Holmes.

I like the matchup with NO. Big Ben's shoulder is hurting. It's hard to count on the Colts right now, but they can't run so maybe they'll have to air it out. Jackson seems to be the real deal. At the moment I'm leaning towards Jackson and then it's a coin flip between Royal and Gonzalez, but at the moment the NO matchup is making me think Royal.

Thoughts?

Standard Yahoo, no PPR QB, 2WR, 2RB, W/R, TE, K, Def
QB: Campbell (Garrard, Rothlisberger on bench)
WR: Burress, Jackson, (Santonio Holmes, Anthony Gonzalez on bench)
RB: Lynch, Grant (Michael Bush, Brandon Jackson on bench)
W/R: Royal
TE: Miller
K: Gostkowski
D: Bal

by Costa :: Fri, 09/19/2008 - 5:22pm

I'd definitely go with Royal over Gonzalez. Dallas Clark is expected to be back, and that should pull away a lot of balls that would have otherwise gone to Gonzo.

Still, sitting Santonio Holmes in favor of any of those three guys seems like focusing a little too heavily on the match-ups factor to me, at the expense of plain old talent. I understand the thinking, but at this point, I still play him ahead of all those guys every week if he's healthy, regardless of match-up.

by thestar5 (not verified) :: Fri, 09/19/2008 - 5:47pm

Is this a good trade for me?

I get: Houshmanzadeh, Santana Moss, McFadden

I giveup: Andre Johnson, Maroney, Berrian

I am deep at WR, but have no RB's dong anything. I don't want togive up Johnson, and I wonder if Cincy is a lost cause, but is the McFadden upgrade over Maroney too much to pass up?

by Ivarsson.se :: Sun, 09/21/2008 - 7:38am

I'm not too sure about DMCs value over the season. He has competition or at least alternatives in the Oakland backfield, and having to take painkillers to play in week 3 does not bode well.

Then again, Berrian has a lose-lose situation going at QB in MIN, and Maroney has injury and RBBC problems as well.

I say pull the trigger, especially if you have another good WR option (I'm assuming you start 2WR?) in case Housh won't pan out. Santana might even end up getting the most points of all WRs named Moss this season.

by Jim (not verified) :: Sat, 09/20/2008 - 5:19am

When do they come out?

by Ivarsson.se :: Sun, 09/21/2008 - 7:38am

Ok, some WR/RB trouble here.

I'm starting Marshawn Lynch at RB1, and have RB/WR and 2 WR slots to fill with the following players:
Earnest Graham @ CHI
Jerricho Cotchery @ SD
Andre Johnson @ TEN
Donald Driver @ DAL

I also have Steve Slaton (@ TEN), Darren Sproles (@ NYJ) and Mark Clayton (@ CLE) on the bench.

Tough matchups for most players, currently I'm actually leaning towards sitting Graham and playing all three receivers, with Cotchery in the RB/WR slot and subbing in Sproles before MNF if news break that Tomlinson won't be able to go.

by roguerouge :: Sun, 09/21/2008 - 9:22am

TDs worth 6, 20 yards worth 1:

Choose 3:
T Jones @ SD
R Grant vs. Dal
F Taylor @ Indy
A Gonzalez vs. Jax
C Perry @ NYG
J Lewis @ Bal

by Ivarsson.se :: Sun, 09/21/2008 - 9:40am

I say bench Perry and Lewis. Play Jones and Grant. For the last spot, I think I'd rather play Gonzales than Taylor, but it's just a hunch that Peyton is going to keep feeding him balls. If Dallas Clark is active, though, play Taylor.

by Raine05 :: Sun, 09/21/2008 - 9:49am

Does anyone has advise? I have Galloway but Berrian is available, should I pick up? Galloway is more valuable according to KUBIAK, but with his injury and QB change in Min, should I do it?

Thanks

by Drunkmonkey :: Sun, 09/21/2008 - 11:17am

I'd be very hesitant on this. I know that's why your asking, I'm saying that I'd lean on the side of no, because you have no idea how this is really gonna help out. I don't have much faith at all in Gus. But like you said, there is a good bet that Galloway will not come back to form in enough time to make a fantasy impact. I just know that Berrian isn't really a proven commodity yet, like Galloway is. I think I'd just watch what Berrian does this week, and then look at it. Then again, you could loose out on him. But for me, I really wouldn't do it yet.

by Raine05 :: Tue, 09/23/2008 - 3:39am

Thanks.

by SteelCurtain (not verified) :: Sun, 09/21/2008 - 11:14am

Who is the better start this week: John Carlson or Antonio Gates?

by carrera.bill@gm... :: Sun, 09/21/2008 - 11:36am

THis one is tearing me up, I really have changed it 4 times in the last 10 minutes

E.Graham v Chicago

or

D.Sproles v Jets

ugh!!!!!!!

by Ivarsson.se :: Sun, 09/21/2008 - 12:18pm

I'm also torn up on a similar problem, only I have a flex slot and could also play the third receiver from Cotchery/Driver/A Johnson over the RBs.

I just leaned back from my original decision (playing all three WRs with Sproles going in for Cotchery if LdT is out) to playing Graham, Cotchery and Driver. Don't have much faith in HOU offense vs TEN...

by BucNasty :: Sun, 09/21/2008 - 12:50pm

Sproles is now listed as probable due to a hammy.

ETA: Will Carroll's Last Minute Med Check is up.

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2008/football/nfl/09/21/week3.medcheck/...

by FantasyFreak (not verified) :: Sun, 09/21/2008 - 12:01pm

Patten is still a FA in my league. Should I give up on Berrian and grab Patten? TDs=6; RecYds=1pt/10yds;

by carrera.bill@gm... :: Sun, 09/21/2008 - 12:09pm

I've given up on Berrian. I'm going with B.Lloyd until Berrian shows me something.

by JoeSkolnik :: Sun, 09/21/2008 - 12:47pm

Should I start Winslow or Shockey.

by Dice (not verified) :: Sun, 09/21/2008 - 6:07pm

I have Phillip Rivers and Aaron Rodgers...I'm thinking Rivers is the better start, as the Jets secondary doesn't seem as strong as Dallas', but Rodgers has better wideouts...

by Marcumzilla :: Mon, 09/22/2008 - 12:33pm

What do you think of each of them, both this season and longer-term? For real? Sell high? Is O'Sullivan going to hit the new-QB wall, and I should just ride the weak matchups? Has Campbell finally turned the corner?

I have O'Sullivan as my QB2 in a two-QB league. Campbell's owner is dangling him. It's an auction-keeper league, and both are $1 this year, and would be cheap for a few years if productive (+$3/yr). I also have Ryan, who I view as a long-shot to be consistently productive this year.

by badger99 (not verified) :: Mon, 09/22/2008 - 5:20pm

Addai has been a disappointment thus far. FO was predicting Addai to have a monster year. It also predicted a big bump up for Ronnie Brown - which seems to be happening.

I was thinking of trying to buy-low sell-high. If I could convince another team to trade Addai and either Donald Driver or Torry Holy for Ronnie Brown and Plaxico Burress - would that be a good trade?

I should state that my league gives a point per reception (but no points per rush)...so WRs are pretty important. I still think this might be a great buy low sell high opportunity. Or am I giving up too much in Brown and Burress?

by Red Hedgehog (not verified) :: Tue, 09/23/2008 - 12:00pm

Another person in my league has Jay Cutler and Aaron Rodgers and is attempting to trade Rodgers. He wants a WR and I have quite a few of them. According to Kubiak's preseason stuff, Rodgers and Anquan Boldin would be of equivalent value, but I think given Cincinnati's implosion, maybe I should trade Houshmandzadeh instead? Or is Randy Moss going to be phoning it in for the rest of the year? Details below:

Scoring: 1/25 passing yards, 1/10 rushing and receiving, 6/all TDs, no PPR.

My team:
David Garrard, J.T. O'Sullivan
MJD, Earnest Graham, Chris Johnson, Rashard Mendenhall
Randy Moss, Anquan Boldin, Houshmandzadeh, Marques Colston
Jason Witten
Stephen Gostkowski
Ravens D, Buc D

His team:
Jay Cutler, Aaron Rodgers
Adrian Peterson, DeAngelo Williams, Brandon Jacobs, Edgerrin James
Andre Johnson, Isaac Bruce, Torry Holt, Derrick Mason
Tony Gonzalez, Owen Daniels
Robbie Gould
Colts D

by Drunkmonkey :: Tue, 09/23/2008 - 12:48pm

I have a bit of a problem with the