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“Perusing the Perimeter”:The Fantasy Football Summit

By WHUDEY on May 15, 2013
This entry is filed under Fantasy Football and tagged Fantasy football, fantasyfootball.

Will You be a part of the Fantasy Football Summit?

John D. Beckler II (@JDBeckler) and I decided to get together over drinks and talk all facets fantasy football next week. But then had an idea why not invite everyone who is passionate about fantasy football to join the conversation. So we decided to do a few podcasts on some of the very issues we would be discussing and the idea of the Fantasy Football Summit was born. Join us next week on FantasyTrade411 Radio Network. as we discuss general fantasy football topics. Note: The topics below are just points we may hit on as we want this to be an open forum so fantasy football writers and players alike feel free to call in discuss anything related to the corresponding day topic base (347)826-9195. There will be a chat room open for each podcast so if you don’t want to call in please join the discussion in the chat rooms. Also, we will be live tweeting the three-day event each night using the hashtag #FFSummit if you want to follow along and discuss there as well.

Monday May 20 8PM- 10PM EST

Fantasy Football Summit Day 1

*Discussing Many General Fantasy Football topics

- Should PPR be the “new” official standard in fantasy football

- What are ways we can reduce the luck factor in fantasy football

- Roto Fantasy Football?

- Are there other ways we can improve the game?

- Dynasty, IDP and other formats

- Trading

-G eneral Draft Strategies What works and what may not work?

- Is there a superior format to use? (ESPN,Yahoo, CBS, MFL, NFL.com, etc) Positive and Negatives?

- Useful Tools to use to dominate the competition

Tuesday, May 21 8PM-10PM EST

Fantasy Football Summit Day 2

*Discussing The daily gaming aspect of fantasy football

- What site is best site to use

- What are the positives and negatives of each site?

- Can a profit be made playing?

- Pros and Con of daily gaming

- Does writing lineups create an issue (i.e. people profiting off of in some cases free work)

- Should all lineup advice given be given through a premium package from a writer?

- How can writers make more than just referrals?

- Useful tolls to dominate the competition

Wednesday, May 22 8PM – 10PM EST

Fantasy Football Summit Day 3

*Social Media and Other media being used in fantasy football

- Google Hangouts

- Twitter

- Twitter etiquette (i.e. Trolling, Subtweeting, Answering other people’s questions)

- How can writers do a better job of communication to our audience and each other?

- Are there things that fantasy football writers can do better to serve the community?

- What are some sites that excel at providing quality new advanced statistics?

- Useful tools to dominate the competition

- Day 1 and Day 2 Feedback Review (Review emails and social media conversation about the #FFSummit)

So again feel free fantasy football writers and fantasy football players to call in and discuss the topics above or something else that is on your mind (347)826-9195, join the chat room, or join the conversation on twitter using the hashtag #FFSummit. Looking forward to hearing from you and thank you for contributing to the discussion.

FSWA Member and also Writer for www.FP911.com .. Follow me and ask me your questions on Twitter@Whudey

Fantasy Football Rookie Projections

By Trader X on May 7, 2013
This entry is filed under Fantasy Football and tagged Fantasy football, nfl, nfl draft, rookies. | 2 Comments

Can Geno Smith help your fantasy football team in 2013?

By Richard Janvrin

Every year before and after the NFL draft, Fantasy Football enthusiasts start to examine and analyze the potential for each and every skill position. What really boils down to a successful NFL Rookie campaign are a few factors:

1. Opportunity. If a QB, RB, WR, TE or any of those positions are launched in to a starting role, they are given a great opportunity to succeed.

2. Situation. This is different for each position. For QBs, it could be many different things. These factors include offensive line, WR corps, and the type of offense the team runs. For a WR it boils down to who their QB is. Most rookie wide-outs would much rather have an Aaron Rodgers rather than a Kevin Kolb. For a RB, offensive line plays a role, as does QB in in that if the QB is successful, less eyes will be on said RB. Timeshares will also play into a RB’s situation, as well.

With that said, we’ll see some rookies who will have fantastic seasons and others that will total 200 yards and fall flat on their face. Let’s see if we can separate the fantastic seasons from the flops.

Quarterbacks

EJ Manuel, Buffalo Bills - We all know his potential. He’s a mobile QB, but he’s not the most natural of passers, has some decision making problems, doesn’t like to sit in the pocket long enough to find an open receiver and often takes off running prematurely. With all that said, I’m not entirely sure he’ll be the starter all season or Week 1 either. The Bills said there was a franchise QB in this draft. They may have been right, but it was NOT this guy. In my opinion, his draft stock was so high due to the overall weak QB class this year.

Projections: 12 GS, 2694 yards, 15 TDs, 9 INTs, 364 rushing yards, 2 TDs.

Should I draft him? I wouldn’t touch him in a 1 QB league, but he’s worth in a flier in a start-2 QB league (along with any other QBs who have a chance at playing time).

Geno Smith, New York Jets - There’s not much in between here. Either you love Geno Smith, or you hate Geno Smith. I’m not thoroughly convinced he’s as good as advertised, but Geno Smith does have a pretty good opportunity here. There is a “5 QB competition” in New York, but I really see it as Geno winning the job, ultimately. Seriously? The Jets would consider Greg McElroy, David Garrard or Matt Simms as their starter? Mark Sanchez has the best shot, but I think it’s time for a change. Geno won’t have an RG3-like impact, but he will definitely improve them as a football team.

Projections: 16 GS, 3451 yards, 20 TDs, 7 INTs, 561 rushing yards, 5 TDs.

Should I draft him? He’s worth a look, but for now, he’s nothing more than a bye week fill-in.

Running Backs

Giovanni Bernard, Cincinnati Bengals - Bernard and BJGE have a great chance to give the Bengals a “thunder and lightning” tandem – BJGE as the thunder in that he’s a down-hill, north to south runner and Gio Bernard as the lightning. Bernard can catch out of the backfield and is an effective runner. He’s considered a little under-sized, but so is Darren Sproles. With the Bengals building an explosive offense, this could be a great opportunity and a great situation for Bernard.

Projections: 813 rushing yards, 6 rushing TDs, 50 receptions, 589 receiving yards, 5 receiving TDs.

Should I draft him? Yes. In 10-team formats and higher. Has great upside and potential.

Le’Veon Bell, Pittsburgh Steelers - Jonathan Dwyer or Isaac Redman shouldn’t give the Steelers’ second-round pick much of a competition. One thing that I love about him is his pass catching ability. The Pittsburgh Steelers and Ben Roethlisberger are known for throwing to the RB out of the back-field.

Projections: 1070 rushing yards, 7 rushing TDs, 41 receptions, 512 receiving yards, 4 receiving TDs.

Should I draft him? Yes. He could be a low-end RB1 this season.

Montee Ball, Denver Broncos - Montee has a chance to have the best season of any rookie this year. He has one of the best opportunities to go along with a pretty good QB (understatement of the century). After scoring 55 rushing TDs in his last two seasons at Wisconsin, Ball should give the Broncos a viable goal-line option (his NFL comparison is BJGE, according to our friends at Walter Football).

Projections: 1241 rushing yards, 11 rushing TDs, 11 receptions, 98 receiving yards, 1 receiving TD.

Should I draft him? Yes. He has a very good chance to become a low-end RB1.

Wide Receivers

Tavon Austin, St. Louis - You know the comparisons and you know him. He’s explosive, he’s dynamic, he’s a monster. If Sam Bradford doesn’t progress as an NFL QB with him and West Virginia teammate Stedman Bailey, all hope is lost. There are reports confirming he will come out of the back-field sometimes as well, which will only increase his fantasy value..

Projections: 81 receptions, 1192 yards, 6 TDs, 312 rushing yards, 2 TDs.

Should I draft him? Yes. He should be a solid WR2, with the potential of a WR1 — especially in PPR leagues.

DeAndre Hopkins, Houston Texans - This will be interesting. The Texans finally have a complement to Andre Johnson, as DeAndre Hopkins is in a position to give Houston a Roddy White and Julio Jones-like tandem.

Projections: 69 receptions, 1012 yards, 5 TDs.

Should I draft him? Yes. He could serve as a decent flex option in most formats.

Cordarrelle Patterson, Minnesota Vikings - Patterson isn’t a great route runner yet, but he does have big play ability. He only played one season in Division 1, so experience is an issue. Playing opposite of Greg Jennings should provide Patterson with a good opportunity, but his QB situation isn’t the greatest. Having Christian Ponder or Matt Cassell as your QB isn’t great news for fantasy owners and may affect Patterson’s stock a bit.

Projections: 51 receptions, 874 yards, 4 TDs.

Should I draft him? Only in deeper leagues. He’s probably a flex option at best right now.

Tight Ends

Tyler Eifert, Cincinnati Bengals - As mentioned above, the Cincinnati offense is quite intriguing for fantasy purposes. Gresham and Eifert won’t likely turn into a Gronkowski/Hernandez combo, but they should be effective in 2013.

Projections: 52 receptions, 800 yards, 4 TDs.

Should I draft him? Eifert could be a bye-week fill-in option, but probably not much more.

Honorable Mentions: Keenan Allen (WR - SD), Aaron Dobson (WR - NE), Robert Woods (WR - BUF), Eddie Lacy (RB – GB), Johnathan Fraklin (RB – GB), Tyler Wilson (QB – OAK), Stedman Bailey (WR - STL), Andre Ellington (RB – AZ), Zach Ertz (TE – PHI).

By Richard Janvrin

Richard is 20 years old and a father of one. He was born and raised in New Hampshire, but hates all Boston sports teams. He is a die hard Tampa Bay Rays, Baltimore Ravens, Tampa Bay Lightning and New York Knicks fan. In joining the FT411 team, he looks forward to bringing you some of the best fantasy advice possible!

Come On Over To Football.com

By Trader X on April 24, 2013
This entry is filed under Fantasy Football and tagged amendola, busts, debates, Fantasy football, football.com, free agency, luck, nfl, qb, quarterback, rb, romo, running backs, sleepers, welker, wide receivers, wr.

Pretty cool URL, huh?

As you may or may not have noticed, I’ve recently joined on as a fantasy football writer at Football.com. On top of the site’s awesome URL, I’m really excited about this new endeavor as it will allow me to work with some of my favorite fantasy writers and twitterers like Zach Law, J.J. Zachariason, Charles Murphy, and last but not least, Jake Ciely (who is also my new boss at Football.com).

From now on, you can catch a new article of mine every week at Football.com (don’t worry – I’m not going anywhere and will still be writing here), so keep checking back to see what me and the rest of the gentleman at Football.com have been up to.

In the meantime, here are the first six articles I’ve published over a the site:

New Home, New Value: Wes Welker

By Trader X on March 25, 2013
This entry is filed under Fantasy Football and tagged demaryius thomas, denver broncos, eric decker, Fantasy football, free agency, new england patriots, nfl, peyton manning, ppr, tom brady, wes welker.

The last time Wes Welker changed uniforms, his career took a HUGE step forward. Will the same thing happen with his newest team?

By Richard Janvrin

Since Wes Welker arrived in New England, he’s been a PPR monster and a solid WR1 in most formats. Since 2007, Welker has caught 672 balls for over 7,400 yards and 37 touchdowns. That averages out to a solid 112-1243-6 season, yearly. It also helped that he had a guy by the name of Tom Brady throwing to him, but 2013 will bring a new chapter and value to Welker’s career.

Welker signed a 2-year, $12MM to take his talents to the AFC West with Peyton Manning and company earlier this off-season. I know what you’re thinking, Peyton Manning and Wes Welker? Should have another 115+ reception season, but I think Welker going to Denver actually hurts his fantasy stock. Just think about it, though Peyton Manning is on the same level as Tom Brady, he also has to accomadate the needs of fellow wide-outs, Demaryius Thomas and Eric Decker and tight ends Jacob Tamme and Joel Dreessen.

Between both Thomas and Decker they combined for 179 catches. Adding Welker in to the mix will definitely effect all of their respective values somewhat. If I had to guess, Demaryius Thomas will be the number one guy, followed by Welker and then Decker. I think Demaryius Thomas’ value will stay about the same, but Welker and Decker will be in a bit of a timeshare, kind of. Though the bright side is the Broncos do have a fairly generous schedule next season.

Based on passing yards allower per game, the Broncos play 13 out of their 16 games versus teams in the bottom half.

Welker going to Denver will untimately help Peyton Manning’s value, but his is sure to decline. Will we see another 115 catch season? I can almost guarantee not. His 6-year New England average of 112-1243-6 seems a bit high, too.

Verdict: Stock down slightly. Fantasy prediction: 92-1104-6, solid number one receiver in PPR formats.

By Richard Janvrin

Richard is 20 years old and a father of one. He was born and raised in New Hampshire, but hates all Boston sports teams. He is a die hard Tampa Bay Rays, Baltimore Ravens, Tampa Bay Lightning and New York Knicks fan. In joining the FT411 team, he looks forward to bringing you some of the best fantasy advice possible!

New Home, New Value: Drew Stanton Edition

By Trader X on March 21, 2013
This entry is filed under Fantasy Football and tagged arizona cardinals, bruce arians, drew stanton, Fantasy football, larry fitzgerald, nfl, quarterback. | 1 Comment

Will Drew Stanton finally be the savior that Larry Fitzgerald has been waiting for?

By Richard Janvrin

I know, right? Drew Stanton? Fantasy value? What? No, I’m not saying Drew Stanton will shatter any records or lead you to a championship, but in deep leagues with two QBs, he could have some value. Of course, he’ll need some help.

Head Coach Bruce Arians seems to be in love with Stanton, and any QB that Bruce Arians loves, I love. Just look at Andrew Luck’s 2012 rookie campaign.

First and foremost, the Arizona Cardinals need to fix that offensive line, it’s horrendous. It ranked in the bottom three last season. No QB will be productive without some kind of protection. Fortunately for Stanton, he does have a bit of running game since the team signed RB Rasahard Mendenhall. Given their faith in Stanton, I’d expect the Cardinals to draft some O-line help to protect the inexperienced starter.

Another thing that helps Stanton’s potential value is his receiving core. The Cardinals have Rob Housler, their TE, and wide-outs Andre Roberts and Larry Fitzgerald. The Cardinals are also on the verge of signing versatile weapon Joshua Cribbs who can catch some passes, too.

It’s tough to really predict Stanton based on our small sample size we’ve seen from him, but what we have seen hasn’t been the greatest. He’s 2-2 as a starter with a 55.6% completion percentage with 5 total TD’s and 9 INT’s. His best NFL game came in 2010 at the Buccaneers. In that game, Stanton completed 23 of 37 passes (62.2%), threw for 252 yards and a single touchdown, with no picks.

With some offensive line help and a decent receiving core and running game, Stanton (if he plays a full season) could post a 3150-19-15 season. Nothing flashy, but I didn’t promise you he’d lead you to a championship, did I?

Verdict: Only valuable in 12-team/14-team, 2 QB leagues or deep league bye week fill-in. Or for me personally, since I have a personal man-crush, draftable for sentimental reasons.

By Richard Janvrin

Fantasy Football: NFL Draft Prospects (Running Back)

By Trader X on March 21, 2013
This entry is filed under Fantasy Football and tagged 2013, eddie lacy, Fantasy football, marcus lattimore, montee ball, nfl, nfl draft, rb, running back.

Will Eddie Lacy’s rookie year look more like Trent Richardson’s or Mark Ingram’s?

By Kipp Yates

As you may have seen posted not long ago, I am evaluating prospects in the NFL Draft that could make an impact in your fantasy league. In this article, I evaluate the running backs.

Eddie Lacy- Another Alabama running back being considered as a 1^st round draft pick, whats new? Eddie Lacy is an explosive runner who always fights for that extra yard. He falls forward when tackled on probably 90% of his plays. He has good vision and can be effective when running between the tackles. He can catch the ball out of the backfield and is surprisingly light on his feet for his size. He was running behind one of, if not the best offensive lines in college football history. The offensive line is the core to running backs effectiveness and some teams could honestly see this as something negative. I feel like Lacy could turn out to be a productive back, but never a superstar. He is going to be used as a workhorse and power back if he stays healthy. He will supply his share of receptions but I don’t see it being a huge part of his game. He will have a fantasy impact this year as he will most likely be the first Running back off the board to go to a team in the market for a feature back. I would draft him as a solid Flex or RB2 in this year’s fantasy drafts. In the years to come Lacy could become a safe Flex or RB2, but never a guy you will take in the early rounds. Lacy should be the most productive running back out of the 2013 draft class due to his size and quickness combo.

Joseph Randle- Randle is a great versatile running back who can catch the ball out of the backfield with ease. I feel he would fit great in a high flying offense like the Falcons or Packers who are both in need of running back help. I am however very high on Randle, I believe he will flourish as a running back in the right situation. He will mainly have to receive the opportunity to show off his skillset. His only downfall to me is that he runs a little upright. He has great ball skills and is an immediate threat out of the backfield. He can be effective running between the tackles but he is explsoive in the passing game. If he is the #1 back and for the right team then watch out for him in the PPR leagues.

Marcus Lattimore- Lattimore is a huge wild card in the draft after suffering severe knee injuries two years in a row. I personally really like him and feel that he well be a steal in the middle rounds of the draft. He runs downhill and can catch the ball out of the backfield. I would like to compare him to Arian Foster of the Houston Texans. They have the same running style with excellent vision. Marcus Lattimore is better suited for a zone-blocking scheme in the NFL. Lattimore might be the most productive back in this draft in the long run. This year, we simply do not know yet. I feel like he could honestly be a fringe 1,000 yard rusher if healthy. He has proven he can heal fast as he has the mindset and desire to become great. His fantasy impact remains in question.

Montee Ball- Ball might be the most reliable running back in the draft. He has the most touchdowns in NCAA history and carried a big load for the Badgers the past 2 years. He is just an all-around good back. Nothing really flashes at you as he does not have superb speed, but he gets the job done and can do everything to a good extent. Ball had an average combine as was for the most part expected. He did however improve his 40 time at his pro day which helps tremendously. I believe that whoever drafts Montee Ball will have a very reliable back for the years to come. I believe that he will be very consistent throughout each and every game in his NFL career. He is a 1 cut back and forces his way up field. He is not very flashy and does not have the best hands but he will supply some team with a solid and consistent backfield. His fantasy football impact could be limited however because he simply doesn’t stand out in any characteristic and doesn’t have that superstar factor. I believe that he can be a decent flex play this year if he is starting. I believe a lot of his impact will depend on the team he goes to.

Giovani Bernard- Bernard could be the most electrifying running back in the draft. He is a big play waiting to happen. He is versatile as he returned punts at UNC. He has a very compact and stout stature. He flourishes in the passing and screen game which has come in to play more with the pass oriented league and running backs like Ray Rice, Jacquizz Rodgers, and Darren Sproles. He is also fairly effective between the tackles. My one knock on him however is his tendency to almost accept a tackle. He doesn’t necessarily fight for that extra yard or break a lot of tackles. He will instead use his elusiveness to help get through the open field. I would like to see Bernard be a little more physical and run through someone. I know he can do it because he is a strong stout man. I see Bernard as a RB2 with upside if in the right offense. He could be the missing piece to some teams in the NFL. Bernard will excel in PPR leagues in the near future if given the chance to be a 3 down back.

Again, these are just my opinions on the running backs in the upcoming draft class. I wish you all the best in you fantasy football leagues this coming year.

By Kipp Yates

Kipp is the newest addition to our FantasyTrade411 family. He covers Fantasy Football and the NFL Draft. He is on the younger side, but do not underestimate him! He has a passion for football and would love to do anything to help. Kipp is newer to fantasy baseball and basketball but is looking to learn more every day. Follow him on twitter @KippYates

“Perusing the Perimeter” Fantasy Football 2013: Orange Crush

By WHUDEY on March 13, 2013
This entry is filed under Fantasy Football and tagged Fantasy football, fantasyfootball.

With all the hype of Wes Welker being in Denver. The man who benefits the most is….. Demaryius Thomas.

Now that Free agency has begun in the NFL, it didn’t take long for the proverbial poop to start hitting the fan. Late afternoon on March 13th, 2013, Wes Welker signed a 2-year deal with the Denver Broncos. Instantly, Twitter became its usual mess of funny jokes about Brady, Belichick, and Wes Welker’s famous dropped pass. You can’t help but to start speculating Welker, Manning, Decker, and Thomas’s fantasy football value. Some believe Welker hurts Decker’s value the most. That I can agree with for the most part. But, at the end of the day Peyton Manning slings the football around to any and all his receivers in any given game. I mean hello! It’s Peyton Manning we are talking about here.

Now, the funny part is that some think Demaryius Thomas’s value takes and hit. I think that is absolutely false. John Elway is absolutely brilliant in bringing one of the premier pass catchers the last six years to play slot position for the Broncos. Realistically, he should provide more production to the offense than Brandon Stokley did a year ago. Will Welker put up the same numbers he has for more than half a decade remains to be seen. But, what is the truth underling this signing is that Peyton Manning is elite and teams will be forced to one of two things. 1. Drop six Defensive Backs in zone versus three Wide Receivers Sets or 2. Play your nickel package straight up in either man or zone. In either scenario, Peyton Manning has the advantage. Manning’s advantage is that he has arguably a Top 5 Wide Receiver in the NFL in Demaryius Thomas, who will see a lot of man coverage. Looking at the teams they have to play, only three teams have the talent on the roster to stop the machine in #88, Kansas City, Houston, and Dallas. Demaryius Thomas is an unreal mismatch on the football field that compares to fellow Georgia Tech alum Calvin Johnson. Peyton Manning is no dummy and understands how gifted of a receiver he has in Thomas. As it stands right now on paper regardless of the Running Back situation this has the makings to be one of the more prolific offenses of all time. Never in Peyton Manning’s career has he had three wide receivers that possess the amount of talent that Eric Decker, Wes Welker, and Demaryius Thomas have on the football field. The trio of receivers I will now call “D.E.W” for short, will all hold solid fantasy value due to Peyton Manning alone.

Back in February, “Perusing the Perimeter” made a claim for Calvin Johnson to go 1.02 in fantasy football drafts the summer (Which you can find here.) The article goes on to discusses who should be the next Wide Receiver off the board after Megatron. The Wes Welker signing just re-affirms this for me. Right now, Demaryius Thomas is the #2 Wide Receiver in Fantasy football and will challenge Megatron for #1 overall in 2013. In this “Perusing the Perimeter” will use eight sentences with “eight” words to show love to Demaryius Thomas being the #2 Wide Receiver in fantasy football.

Demaryius Thomas had 141 targets with Peyton Manning.

Demaryius Thomas had 94 catches with Peyton Manning.

Demaryius Thomas had 1,434 yards receiving in 2012.

Demaryius Thomas is bringing sexy back in 2013.

Demaryius Thomas should go in round one in 2013.

Demaryius Thomas will go in round four in 2013.

Demaryius Thomas will score 20 Touchdowns in 2013.

Demaryius Thomas will lead to fantasy football glory.

@FSWA Member Host of “Perusing the Periemeter” Podcast on FantasyTrade411 Radio Network, Writer for www.FP911.com.. Follow me and ask me your questions on Twitter @Whudey or Tell me what you think in the Comments section below or email me Fantasyworldorder1@gmail.com

Fantasy Football: NFL Draft Prospects (Quarterback)

By Trader X on March 8, 2013
This entry is filed under Fantasy Football and tagged draft, Fantasy football, geno smith, matt barkley, nfl.

Is Geno Smith the next RG3/Andrew Luck or the next Ryan Leaf/JaMarcus Russell?

by Kipp Yates

In this new series I will be evaluating draft prospects and there upcoming fantasy status. I will do my evaluation on the consensus top players of each position’s draft class. I am starting with the Quarterbacks and I hope you enjoy!

Geno Smith- Geno Smith is widely considered the top Quarterback prospect in the 2013 draft class. He was the most productive QB in college football this past season throwing 42TDS to only 6 Interceptions. While this is great numbers he is not going to make an impact like RGIII or Andrew Luck did this past year. I do feel like Geno Smith will be the only fantasy relevant Quarterback in this draft class however. He helped himself at the combine coming with a 40 in the 4.55 range while throwing well in the drills. With most fantasy football leagues ranging from 10-12 teams, that means there are 12 starting quarterbacks. I do not feel that Geno Smith will be in that top 12 tier especially after the Qb class got so much deeper with RGIII, Russell Wilson, Andrew Luck, and Colin Kaepernick emerging in the league. Geno Smith will have to take the role of a bye week filler or injury replacement.

Ryan Nassib- Ryan Nassib is not a flashy player but has done very good for the University of Syracuse. Nassib’s best quality is his mind. He has great awareness and it always aware of checkdowns and the open player. His strength is making the short decisive throws to keep chugging down the field. Nassibs problems are his mid-range to deep ball. He struggles significantly on these throws which is a huge problem in the NFL and the pass first oriented league that we have now. He also has a little trouble reading defenses but helps himself out with good decisions on his throws. He has a solid build for a QB stadning at 6’2”. On a fantasy prospective, Ryan Nassib should be sitting on the waiver wire in the NFL unless he emerges like a player like Russell Wilson last year who was still not among many peoples starting QBs. Nassib simply lacks the ability to pick a part a defense by himself and make those challenging throws of intermediate range that are going to have to be made. He will not help you from a fantasy prospective, especially in a really deep Quarterback class.

Matt Barkley- Barkley was the consensus #1 overall pick and Heisman Trophy favorite before the 2012 NCAA football season. He then went on to battle a shoulder injury. Barkley however still might have the best opportunity to make it a long time in the NFL. He is excellent and delivers the ball on point when he has a clean pocket. He does not have the strongest arm but it is not a huge issue. Barkley’s struggles come when pressure is created. In my personal opinion, he is just awful when there is not a clean pocket. He struggles evading and can’t find a clean throw. This is a big problem because defensive lines and linebackers like Von Miller are tough to deal with. Barkley did however play in a pro-style offense but there are questions on him reading a defense which is needed at the pro level. Barkley from a fantasy perspective will not be much to think about. He might develop into a good quarterback over time. His shoulder has taken forever it seems to heal even though I don’t exactly know how serious it was. If he gets drafted in the first round I do believe it to be a mistake.

Tyler Bray- Tyler Bray is my favorite QB in the 2013 draft class. This however, does not mean he is the best QB in the draft class. I do believe that in the right situation and a good coach, bray can become a great QB. Right now, Bray lacks good mechanics and tends to be over aggressive. He does however have a HUGE arm and can make the big plays. He has a good stature and while he is not the most athletic he can evade sacks fairly well. I fully believe if Bray can be a backup in the NFL for 3-4 years and have a great coach, then he can succeed in the NFL. This upcoming season however is not the time. I do not think he will start a game unless an injury to the starting QB in front of him occurs. Do not look at Tyler Bray to help your fantasy team as he simply will not make an impact.

by Kipp Yates

“Perusing the Perimeter” Fantasy Football 2013: The Rookie RBs

By WHUDEY on February 26, 2013
This entry is filed under Fantasy Football and tagged Fantasy football, fantasyfootball.

If the shoe fits… The classic tale of “Cinderella” couldn’t be more true when it come to The Rookie Running Back Landscape for the upcoming 2013 Fantasy Football season. Alfred Morris, Last year’s “Cinderella”, came away from the Combine ball and on draft day the Washington Redskins found a fit to the proverbial glass slipper at Pick 173. Morris went under the radar for about three weeks in fantasy football as many owners were weary of Mike Shanahan‘s games. The Belle of the Ball had incredible rookie season amassing 335 carries, 1,613 yards, and 13 Touchdowns for a total of 230 ESPN standard league fantasy Points. Becoming a solid one – two rushing punch with Robert Griffith III. But it wasn’t just Alfred Morris who made noise in fantasy matchups throughout the season. Trent Richardson, Doug Martin, Vick Ballard, Bryce Brown, and if you were desperate and played David Wilson week 14 then you know that value can be had by at least having a rookie back on your roster and seeing how it pans out. Brandon Bolden, Ronnie Hillman, Jorvorskie Lane, Lamar Miller, Bernard Pierce, Baron Batch all rushed for Touchdowns a year ago. William Powell rushed for over 200 yards, Robert Turbin chipped in 300 yards plus, and Darryl Richardson rushed for over 400 yards. Bringing the total to 15 Rookie Running Backs who played an impact on the 2012 Fantasy football season all drafted at different points of the NFL Draft. In years past, this would not have been the case as NFL Head Coaches tend to not trust Rookies Running Backs for various reasons such as fumbling, pass protection, etc. The NFL is becoming quicker, stronger, and faster game. The NFL Coaches are making huge strides in maximizing the talent on their respective rosters. A Fresh body and a change of pace can make all the difference from winning and losing a football game. The use of Rookie Running Backs ,even in limited roles, is something that’s here to stay. Embrace change.

Washington Redskins (RB) Alfred Morris

There are 10 teams who have serious needs at the position. Granted some may address those issues via free agency. But In my opinion, With the class being as deep many my even look to just add depth to the roster so the total teams could increase to 15. The 10 Teams are: Cincinnati Bengals, Arizona Cardinals, Detroit Lions, Jacksonville Jaguars, Atlanta Falcons, Oakland Raiders New York Jets, Green Bay Packers, Pittsburgh Steelers, Indianapolis Colts.The names to keep an Eye on this year in the upcoming draft to see where they may land are: Ed Lacy, Montee Ball, Le’veon Bell, Jawan Jamison, Andre Ellington, Mike Gillislee, Giovani Bernard, Johnathan Franklin, Christine Michael, Stepfan Taylor, Marcus Lattimore, Dennis Johnson, Kenjon Barner, Knile Davis, Joseph Randle, Cierre Wood, Spencer Ware, Montel Harris, Zachary Stacy, Kerwynn Williams, Ray Graham, and Michael Ford. That’s 22 Rookie Running Backs who on any given week in 2013 can play a huge impact on whether you win or lose matchups from week to week. NFL coaches are always trying to exploit matchups using the specific skill sets. For Example, A guy like Dennis Johnson could have a Darren Sproles-type of role for a team paying huge dividends in a PPR league. So, pay close attention to all the information involving Rookie Runnings Backs post-draft going into training camp and the preseason. I will re-visit this topic later on in the year as training camp nears closer and rank them in terms of projected fantasy production for 2013.

RB Johnathan Franklin is one of my favorites to make fantasy impact in 2013

NFL teams will look to find the one or more Running Backs where the glass slipper fits. Which one of these will be The “Cinderella” of the Fantasy football season remains to be seen. But after the “Ball” wraps up this week NFL GMs will be making the rounds testing out the slipper on each one of these Running Backs and hoping they find the right fit and not end up with one of Cinderella’s Step sisters instead on Draft Day.

“Perusing the Perimeter” Fantasy Football 2013: The Forgotten Heisman

By WHUDEY on February 18, 2013
This entry is filed under Fantasy Football and tagged Fantasy football, fantasyfootball.

It’s no secret that I, much like Trader X, play in a lot of fantasy football leagues. Each league is different as I don’t wanna become bored of same ol’ standard leagues. One of My favorite leagues is my Super secret Heisman league. I am the commissioner for a 10 team ESPN Standard league made up of former Heisman winners. Rules are simple except one mandate: All owners must roster a former Heisman winner, draft him with your first round pick, and start him every game of the season. So the first round first pick (by divine intervention I am sure) goes to Tim Tebow and he selected Cam Newton. Ricky Williams was high as a kite. He choose himself and then inhaled 17 bags of Funyuns. Ron Dayne selected Reggie Bush (I allowed it). Chris Weinke in thinking Tim would be converted into a Running back took Tebow (Jokes on Weinke huh?). Eric Crouch really didn’t wanna play, I had to beg and plead, but after I told him that he was greater player than Tebow and that Tebow would be in it..He agreed only to want to kick Tim’s ass (both in fantasy and real life). Crouch selected Carson Palmer based on the fact he got his award the year after him. Jason White nabs Sam Bradford as an obvious choice. Matt Lienart choose himself…and proceeded to do keg stands. Troy Smith gets Robert Griffin III. And After a little persuasion on Erin Andrews’s part (Don’t know why she isn’t answering my calls…) Eddie George was invited to join the league. (Yes, I know one too many Buckeyes for my liking.) But George in a classy move selected Green Bay Defense showing respect to Charles Woodson. Which Heisman did I take? Mark Ingram Jr. of course.

Hey Erin, Call Me….Maybe?

To start the season the former Alabama Running back had one really productive week …in Week two when he had 16 carries for 53 yards and touchdown for 11 fantasy points…After that He was the invisible man.from week three to eight in he score five fantasy points combined..Then week nine came and the usage took a positive spike although it was never was consistent from Week nine to Week 14 he scored 39 fantasy points combined. Not great but was a welcoming surprise to my fantasy squad.

But Something happened as I managed to sneak into the playoffs and was facing Tim “Football Jesus” Tebow. I really wanted to win but seeing that he had Cam along with a slew of other fantasy beasts, I looked at Mark Ingram facing the top rated run defense in the Tampa Bay Buccaneers that week and cried as I had no choice but to roll him out there. But 14 carries 90 yards a touchdown averaging 6.4 yards per carry. Ingram’s 15 fantasy points helped me beat Tebow miraculously by one point. I may not have won the championship the following week losing to whiny ass Eric Crouch, but Mark showed me something that may resemble how he is used going forward.

The Heisman Trophy Winner no one is talking about will shine in 2013..

Mark Ingram will hold the greatest value at running back position that you can pickup off waiver wires or late in drafts this year.
From week 9 on, Mark Ingram Jr. averaged 12 carries per game at 4.2 yards per carry. Those are very respectable numbers considering the usage. Let’s not forget the obvious, The Saints last year with Sean Payton being suspended weren’t really the “Saints”. And It was Sean Payton who drafted Mark Ingram, so I chalk 2012 as a mulligan for the 23-year-old former first round pick. Without Sean Payton, Drew Brees played an older brother role becoming the man of the house while “dad” was locked up like Akon. Brees took care of his team overall but played favorites. Darren Sproles ,aka Brees’s favorite weapon, took away too many snaps in the backfield from Ingram I serve this up to Brees trying to get his favorite guy necessary looks. Sproles has a role on this team there is no question that his involvement plays as a devils advocate in my support for Ingram. But Pierre Thomas is losing burst having battling nagging injuries it seems every year. And Teams are going to be looking into Chris Ivory services. I think Sean Payton changes his game plan for 2013.He has been running the same offensive system since he has become the head coach of the Saints rarely having a true workhorse running back. Success can be had for Mark Ingram this year as Sean Payton will look to use him in more of a cow bell role. Effectively using a more running plays between the tackles frees up the middle of the field for Jimmy Graham as defenses commit more men to the box..So when drafting this summer and you find yourself in the 11-12th round unsure of who to draft, Draft Mark Ingram and thank me later. If Mark Ingram averages 16 to 18 carries a game at a 4.2 YPC and becomes the team’s goal-line back, He easily scores double digits Touchdowns while surpassing 1,000 yards rushing. Incredible Value for the 2013 fantasy football season that could prove to be the difference of your team being a playoffs contender or on the outside looking in come Week 15.