What's up football family? Welcome to week 13 of the fantasy football season! Give yourselves a round of applause....you made it through the dreaded bye weeks! As we prepare for the regular season finale...and impending playoffs, we're going to switch it up a bit. Barring injury, most of us have a good feel for our starting roster. What we will discuss this week...and beyond...are the best "flex play" options for your roster. Every point counts, especially with playoff seeds finalizing this week. If you are in need of flex play advise, then you've once again come to the right place. The Boys are back with that news you can use for week 13.
So LET'S...GET...STARTED!!!
Rashad Jennings: RB, Oakland
Oakland's Rashad Jennings put up 122 total yards last week against Tennessee. Since filling in for the oft-injured Darren McFadden, Jennings has been on fire...amassing 553 total yards and two td's the past four games. Jennings has also hauled in 15 catches in that span...making him a flex play with huge upside in ppr leagues. Jennings should be able to do work again this week against the Dallas Cowboys and their 30th ranked run defense. The Cowboys are giving up 133 yards a game on the ground.
Nate Burelson: WR, Detroit
After sitting out nearly two months, the Lions wasted no time in getting wr Nate Burelson back acclimated to live bullets. Burelson was targeted a healthy 10 times last week, hauling in 7 receptions for 77 yards and a td. The unquestioned starter opposite Megatron, look for Burelson to post similar numbers this week against Green Bay and their 20th ranked pass defense.
Rob Housler, TE, Arizona
If you have a W/T or W/R/T flex spot that you are trying to fill this week, then Arizona's Rob Housler is worth consideration. Housler has at least 4 receptions and 50 yards his last three games. He also draws a great match up this week against the Philadelphia Eagles, and their dead last pass defense (300.1 yards a game).
***Big Mike's Match Ups***
Jacoby Jones: WR, Baltimore
Jones turned in his first 100 yard performance of the year last week against the Jets, and threw in a touchdown for good measure. Jones is an especially good flex play this week for leagues who score return yards, as he totaled 127 additional yards on special teams. Jones should turn in another all around solid performance this week against the Steelers, who's suddenly high octane offense will keep Baltimore's passing attack in play. And Pittsburgh's propensity to score should net Jones (and you) bonus return points as well.
Mohamed Sanu: WR, Cincinnati
Cincinnati wr Mohamed Sanu has established himself as the second wr option behind all world A.J. Green, evidenced by his 22 targets the last three games. Sanu, who scored a td in his last game, should continue to hoard targets (and points) this week against San Diego and their 27th ranked pass defense...giving up over 275 yards a game through the air.
***Going DEEP with DP***
Benny Cunningham: RB, St. Louis
Cunningham filled in nicely for injured starter Zac Stacy last week, rushing for 109 yards and a touchdown against the Bears. The prior game, Cunningham had 90 total yards...and averaged 10 yards per touch. And that was with a healthy Zac Stacy playing. Cunningham is the odds on favorite to start this week if Stacy can not suit up. Yes, the 49ers have a tough defense overall, but can be had on the ground...to the tune of 103 yards per game this year.
Dennis Johnson: RB, Houston
For my 12 -16 team leagues, we're about to go DEEP DEEP with Houston rb Dennis Johnson. Current starter Ben Tate is banged up, and was benched last week for ineffectiveness. Johnson stepped in and put up a decent 74 yards on 13 carries. He also caught 2 passes for 13 yards for you ppr leagues. Look for Johnson's role to increase this week (even if Tate plays) against the Patriots and their 31st ranked run defense...giving up over 139 yards a game.
***Homer Alert***
If you are an owner of Indianapolis Colts qb Andrew Luck...and you plan to play him this week...then you, my friend, are on homer alert. Andrew's "Luck" has been anything but recently, as he's thrown for 300 yards just once the last nine games. And now he's becoming a spatula, with five turn overs (only 2 td's) the last three games. This week Luck draws a Titans pass defense that's giving up less than 220 yards a game...8th in the league. Too many red flags if you have a better match up on your bench...especially if the playoffs are on the line.
Be sure to check out Big Mike's College Picks of the Week this Saturday morning....
Life is a sport...so always play to win! Good Luck...and Happy Thanksgiving!!
follow @MichaelJasso @D_Padilla2 @plcolter
Wednesday, November 27, 2013
Tuesday, November 26, 2013
The Washington Redskins... A lesson in leadership
Leadership is defined as the action of leading a group of people or an organization. A disturbing article I just read leads me to question who..or if there is a leader in the Washington Redskins organization.
Jason Lisk and Michael Shamburger of TheBigLead.com reports that the Redskins offensive linemen aren't helping franchise qb Robert Griffin III up after being knocked down from a sack. According to Lisk and Shamburger, teammates have only picked RGIII up from the ground after being sacked three times.
They've allowed 26 of'em.
Let me preface my statement by saying that I have not done my own research on this, but if this stat is correct, then that speaks to much larger issues brewing in Washington.
For starters, isn't helping the qb up from any type of knock down common practice in football now? We see that on the scholastic and collegiate level every weekend, let alone the pros. And let's be clear...once?...fine...twice...hmm..ok....23 out of 26 times you walk away from your (still recovering) franchise qb? That's a trend ladies and gentlemen. It reminds me of the scene in Any Given Sunday, when star qb (Jaime Foxx) was popping off in the media about how super human he was. The following game, the offensive linemen let him get drilled time after time by the defense.
"What's the matter Willie...you forget your invisible juice?"
But I digress....
Seriously...two things jump right out if TheBigLead.com's report is true.
1. Why are the linemen not picking up their qb after he's sacked? I mean...they are, in most cases, directly responsible right? Are they letting defenders by?
2. If the reporters at TheBigLead.com were able to uncover this, why was the team not? And how in the world was it allowed to get to 23 out of 26 anyway?
You would assume that Washington's position coaches, offensive coordinator, and head coach would scrutinize game field to a higher degree than a couple of reporters right? How did this go unnoticed? And why has this not been addressed and corrected? Even if done anonymously and internally?
It says one of two things. Either the behavior is being enabled...which is insane. Or the behavior is going unnoticed...which is completely negligent. Either way it shows a lack of leadership...from the coach, to the qb, to the team as a unit. Someone has to step up and say..."wait a minute...that's our qb...pick that man up".
We've already heard RGIII throw the coaching staff under the bus, while the wide receivers were on the radio throwing him under the bus, while the coach was on tv swearing that his locker room was not divided.
By the way...what's their record again?
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Jason Lisk and Michael Shamburger of TheBigLead.com reports that the Redskins offensive linemen aren't helping franchise qb Robert Griffin III up after being knocked down from a sack. According to Lisk and Shamburger, teammates have only picked RGIII up from the ground after being sacked three times.
They've allowed 26 of'em.
Let me preface my statement by saying that I have not done my own research on this, but if this stat is correct, then that speaks to much larger issues brewing in Washington.
For starters, isn't helping the qb up from any type of knock down common practice in football now? We see that on the scholastic and collegiate level every weekend, let alone the pros. And let's be clear...once?...fine...twice...hmm..ok....23 out of 26 times you walk away from your (still recovering) franchise qb? That's a trend ladies and gentlemen. It reminds me of the scene in Any Given Sunday, when star qb (Jaime Foxx) was popping off in the media about how super human he was. The following game, the offensive linemen let him get drilled time after time by the defense.
"What's the matter Willie...you forget your invisible juice?"
But I digress....
Seriously...two things jump right out if TheBigLead.com's report is true.
1. Why are the linemen not picking up their qb after he's sacked? I mean...they are, in most cases, directly responsible right? Are they letting defenders by?
2. If the reporters at TheBigLead.com were able to uncover this, why was the team not? And how in the world was it allowed to get to 23 out of 26 anyway?
You would assume that Washington's position coaches, offensive coordinator, and head coach would scrutinize game field to a higher degree than a couple of reporters right? How did this go unnoticed? And why has this not been addressed and corrected? Even if done anonymously and internally?
It says one of two things. Either the behavior is being enabled...which is insane. Or the behavior is going unnoticed...which is completely negligent. Either way it shows a lack of leadership...from the coach, to the qb, to the team as a unit. Someone has to step up and say..."wait a minute...that's our qb...pick that man up".
We've already heard RGIII throw the coaching staff under the bus, while the wide receivers were on the radio throwing him under the bus, while the coach was on tv swearing that his locker room was not divided.
By the way...what's their record again?
follow @plcolter
Saturday, November 23, 2013
BCS = Beat down Saturday
The 2013 college football season, and most importantly, the BCS era, is in it's final stages. And for the BCS, you couldn't ask for a better way to go out. For the first time since it's inception, the BCS could be faced with the possibility of it's top four teams (Alabama, Florida State, Ohio State, Baylor) all finishing the season undefeated. And from the looks of things so far, that has a legitimate chance of happening.
The four above mentioned schools have all played lights out this year...and are deserving if they win out, but due to the BCS system, only two will "earn" the right to play for the big crystal football. Under next year's playoff system, all four teams would get their shot to state their claim...on the field. For now we're left with eye tests, apples to oranges comparisons, and revisionist history to determine who "theoretically" is the best team in the nation. The real losers in all of this, at least this week, are the opponents of at least three of those four teams.
Style points are a major contributing factor when determining the BCS rankings, just ask Ohio State...who can't buy a vote...even with the longest win streak in the nation. Fourth ranked Baylor can close the gap, or even leapfrog the Seminoles and Buckeyes today with a road win over 10th ranked Oklahoma State. The top three teams are all playing non ranked opponents, and are heavily favored today.
Translation...look for beat downs to be handed out like tissues at a wedding.
A word of caution to the fans of Chattanooga (Alabama), Idaho (Florida State), and Indiana (Ohio State), it will get ugly...very ugly today. But be encouraged to know that your games will provide plenty of snack run opportunities (td's = time outs), and your respective teams will all be in the lead segment of Sports Center tonight.
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The four above mentioned schools have all played lights out this year...and are deserving if they win out, but due to the BCS system, only two will "earn" the right to play for the big crystal football. Under next year's playoff system, all four teams would get their shot to state their claim...on the field. For now we're left with eye tests, apples to oranges comparisons, and revisionist history to determine who "theoretically" is the best team in the nation. The real losers in all of this, at least this week, are the opponents of at least three of those four teams.
Style points are a major contributing factor when determining the BCS rankings, just ask Ohio State...who can't buy a vote...even with the longest win streak in the nation. Fourth ranked Baylor can close the gap, or even leapfrog the Seminoles and Buckeyes today with a road win over 10th ranked Oklahoma State. The top three teams are all playing non ranked opponents, and are heavily favored today.
Translation...look for beat downs to be handed out like tissues at a wedding.
A word of caution to the fans of Chattanooga (Alabama), Idaho (Florida State), and Indiana (Ohio State), it will get ugly...very ugly today. But be encouraged to know that your games will provide plenty of snack run opportunities (td's = time outs), and your respective teams will all be in the lead segment of Sports Center tonight.
follow @plcolter
Wednesday, November 20, 2013
Fantasy Football Focus: Week 12: Bye Week Replacements
***Nick's New York State of Mind***
As we enter the final weeks of the fantasy football season, most of us are concerned about the playoff picture. Who should we start, and who should we bench? But the most important question is, how many points can I actually get with this player? The match ups should be the deciding factor. The main ingredient in your championship dish is now choosing the right qb. The first 11 weeks we stick to the script and remain patient, but if you're dealing with injuries or even a lack luster performance (Matt Ryan) then you might want to pick up a qb with the best match up. My second key ingredient is finding the team defense that's on a roll. The New York Giants have been just that for the last 3 games. My running back pick of the week is Indy's Donald Brown. For the past 3 weeks he's put up a total of 209 yards and 3 td’s, making the Cleveland Browns look much smarter than they really are. In the famous words of Steve Smith “Ice up son, Ice up”. Don’t be scared to make a one week choice to better your chances of becoming a legend. ~ New York Nick
What's up Football Family?!? Welcome to week 12 of the fantasy football season! This week marks the end of the dreaded bye weeks (applause)...with Cincinnati, Buffalo, Philadelphia, and Seattle sitting this one out. If you need to replace a player from one of these squads, or as New York Nick suggested, looking to tweak your roster to the best match ups available, then you've once again come to the right place. The Boys are back with that news you can use for week 12.
So LET'S...GET...STARTED!!!!!
Rueben Randle: WR, New York Giants
Rueben Randle hauled in yet another td last week for the G-Men, giving him an impressive six td's over the last seven games. Look for Randle to extend that streak this week against Dallas, who's giving up over 310 yards a game through the air....dead last in the league.
Delanie Walker: TE, Tennessee
One of the lone bright spots during Tennessee's losing streak has been tight end Delanie Walker. Setting career highs last week for receptions (10) and yards (91), Walker has quickly become the favorite red zone target for back up qb Ryan Fitzpatrick. Walker's three td's over the last four games makes him a solid play against Oakland this week, who's 25th against the pass....giving up over 250 yards a game through the air.
***Big Mike's Match Ups***
Le'Veon Bell: RB, Pittsburgh
Bell turned in a solid performance last week against Detroit, racking up 96 total yards and a td. Le'Veon's receiving ability (at least 3 rec's in all but one game this year) makes him an attractive flex play option with upside. Cleveland, this week's opponent, was gashed by a rb with similar catching abilities last week for 96 total yards and four receptions...making this a solid match up in Bell's favor this week.
Cecil Shorts: WR, Jacksonville
Even without suspended wr Justin Blackmon for most of the season, Jacksonville's Cecil Shorts has been a model of consistency this year. Shorts has at least seven receptions in 5 of 9 games this year, and no fewer than two catches in any game this year. Shorts should be able to continue that trend this week against a Houston team that has put a stamp on it and mailed it in for the season, evidenced by them giving up 3 td's to a rookie back up qb from Oakland named Matt McGloin last week. Another solid match up play for Shorts.
***Homer Alert***
If you are an owner of Baltimore's Ray Rice, and plan on starting him this week, then you...my friend...are on homer alert. Yes, Rice had a great game last week vs Chicago with 148 total yards and a td. But that performance had One Week Wonder written all over it. Last week was Rice's first 100 yard game...of the year! Not only that, Rice has eclipsed 45 yards rushing only three times the entire year. This week Rice has a brutal match up against the New York Jets and their top ranked run defense. A defense that's giving up less than 74 yards a game on the ground. It's raining Red Flags in Baltimore this week.
Be sure to check out Big Mike's College Picks of the Week this Saturday morning.....
Life is a sport...so always play to win! Good Luck!!
follow @MichaelJasso @nic_torious @plcolter
Saturday, November 16, 2013
Brady Hoke era officially starts today for Michigan
After beating Notre Dame in front of a record crowd on September 7th, no one in Maize and Blue country could have predicted that Michigan would be relegated to just "playing out the season"...especially this early in November. For a myriad of reasons, the Wolverines are now out of the BCS and Big Ten Title race. The honeymoon between coach Hoke and Michigan...one that lasted well over two years...is now over. My 96 year old great uncle would always tell me that you can find out more about a man (or woman) in times of tribulation than in times of prosperity. Translated....how the Wolverines finish the season could speak more to Hoke's ability to resurrect the nation's all time leader in wins than any "big game victory" under his belt.
In 2011, Brady Hoke inherited one of the least talented rosters in Michigan's storied history. Hoke lead...basically the same roster that failed miserably under Rich Rodriguez...to an improbable 11 win season. A season that included a BSC Sugar Bowl win over Virginia Tech, and a win over rival Ohio State. All was well in Wolverine land.
Last season, Michigan came back to earth somewhat. But all everything qb Denard Robinson was lost half way through the season with an injury to his throwing arm. Devin Gardner, who was Michigan's leading receiver at the time, moved to qb and played well down the stretch. So well in fact, that Robinson was moved to rb once he was cleared to return. Gardner's strong finish left the folks in Ann Arbor looking forward to the 2013 season.
This year? Well.....
Sitting at 6-3, and 2-3 in the Big Ten, Michigan has...at least on the surface...lost all incentive for finishing strong. Running the table would not lead to a Big Ten Title game, beating Ohio State....which is always nice...would only serve as a moral victory, and Hoke's undefeated home winning streak is now over.
What we see out of this Wolverine group the last three games will say a lot about Hoke's leadership. Will his team look inspired to play? Will they fold if they get punched in the mouth? Will they want to go out and win...because that's what winners do? The worst mistake that Brady Hoke could make now is to lose this team and have the rails come completely off the track.
The Athletic Director, Alumni, and most importantly...future recruits will also be monitoring the way that Michigan closes the season. We've seen Hoke in times of prosperity. Now we will see what he and his staff is really made of.
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In 2011, Brady Hoke inherited one of the least talented rosters in Michigan's storied history. Hoke lead...basically the same roster that failed miserably under Rich Rodriguez...to an improbable 11 win season. A season that included a BSC Sugar Bowl win over Virginia Tech, and a win over rival Ohio State. All was well in Wolverine land.
Last season, Michigan came back to earth somewhat. But all everything qb Denard Robinson was lost half way through the season with an injury to his throwing arm. Devin Gardner, who was Michigan's leading receiver at the time, moved to qb and played well down the stretch. So well in fact, that Robinson was moved to rb once he was cleared to return. Gardner's strong finish left the folks in Ann Arbor looking forward to the 2013 season.
This year? Well.....
Sitting at 6-3, and 2-3 in the Big Ten, Michigan has...at least on the surface...lost all incentive for finishing strong. Running the table would not lead to a Big Ten Title game, beating Ohio State....which is always nice...would only serve as a moral victory, and Hoke's undefeated home winning streak is now over.
What we see out of this Wolverine group the last three games will say a lot about Hoke's leadership. Will his team look inspired to play? Will they fold if they get punched in the mouth? Will they want to go out and win...because that's what winners do? The worst mistake that Brady Hoke could make now is to lose this team and have the rails come completely off the track.
The Athletic Director, Alumni, and most importantly...future recruits will also be monitoring the way that Michigan closes the season. We've seen Hoke in times of prosperity. Now we will see what he and his staff is really made of.
follow @plcolter
Wednesday, November 13, 2013
Fantasy Football Focus: Week 11: Bye Week Replacements
Whats up Football Family?!? Welcome to week 11 of the fantasy football season! The bye week gods were kind this week, with only two teams off (Dallas, St. Louis). Although owners of Tony Romo, Dez Bryant, Jason Wittten, Tavon Austin, or Zach Stacy would beg to differ.
If you are looking to replace one of these players, or just looking to tweak your roster this week, then you've come to the right place! The Boys are back with that news you can use for week 11.
SO LET'S...GET...STARTED!!!!
Chris Ivory: RB, New York Jets
Ivory has taken command of the starting rb job in New York, thanks to posting two 100 yard rushing performances the past three games. The one he didn't, an early deficit made the Jets abandon the run game. Head coach Rex Ryan loves to run the ball, evidenced by Ivory getting a combined 58 attempts the last three games. He should continue that trend this week against Buffalo, who is 22nd in the league against the run...giving up over 115 yards a game.
Jerricho Cotchery: WR, Pittsburgh
Cotchery has recently become Big Ben's favorite target, hauling in four td's the past two games. If you're looking for a safe pick, then Jerricho fits the bill, recording a reception in every game he's played in this year. That streak should continue this week (both reception and td) against a Lions defense that's 27th against the pass...giving up over 275 yards a game.
***Big Mike's Match Ups***
DeAndre Hopkins: WR, Houston
Another player that has a reception in every game played this year is Houston's DeAndre Hopkins. In the three games with Case Keenum under center, Hopkins has notched at least 54 yards receiving. And that was against three good pass defenses. The sledding should be easier for Hopkins this week as he faces an Oakland defense that's 22nd against the pass...giving up 247 yards a game.
Bobby Rainey: RB, Tampa Bay
Martin? Out. James? Done. Bobby Rainey...you're next up to bat. Tampa Bay continued to run the ball once James went down in the first quarter last Monday night...and Rainey benefited with 56 total yards and a td. Rainey is set to start this week, and draws a great match up against a Falcons defense that's 27th against the run...giving up over 126 yards a game.
***Going Deep with DP***
Shane Vereen, RB, New England
Shane Vereen, aka...the reason Danny Woodhead was not re-signed, has been removed from the injured reserve list and is scheduled to return to action this Monday night. Yes, the Carolina Panthers have a tough run defense, but Vereen is used in similar fashion as a Woodhead or Sproles...giving you "points by committee". Those points should add up to a quality add to your roster.
Chris Obonnaya, RB, Cleveland
For my deep leagues (12 plus teams) we're about to go DEEP DEEP with Cleveland's Chris Obonnaya. C.O. is already the 3rd down specialist (28 rec 2 tds), and Cleveland has stated this week that he will get more early down work going forward. Translated....he's about to replace Willis McGahee, making him worth a stash.
***Homer Alert***
If you are an owner of San Fransisco's Colin Kaepernick, and you plan to start him this week, then you...my friend...are on homer alert. Kaepernick has struggled lately, throwing for 250 yards just once the past eight weeks. He's also thrown a td just once the past three weeks. Don't look for a breakout performance this week against New Orleans....who are absolutely brutal in the Super Dome (just ask Dallas). The Saints also boast the league's third ranked pass defense. Red flags are falling all over the place on this one.
Be sure to check out Big Mike's College Picks of the Week this Saturday morning.....
Life is a sport...so always play to win! Good Luck!
follow @MichaelJasso @D_Padilla2 @plcolter
If you are looking to replace one of these players, or just looking to tweak your roster this week, then you've come to the right place! The Boys are back with that news you can use for week 11.
SO LET'S...GET...STARTED!!!!
Chris Ivory: RB, New York Jets
Ivory has taken command of the starting rb job in New York, thanks to posting two 100 yard rushing performances the past three games. The one he didn't, an early deficit made the Jets abandon the run game. Head coach Rex Ryan loves to run the ball, evidenced by Ivory getting a combined 58 attempts the last three games. He should continue that trend this week against Buffalo, who is 22nd in the league against the run...giving up over 115 yards a game.
Jerricho Cotchery: WR, Pittsburgh
Cotchery has recently become Big Ben's favorite target, hauling in four td's the past two games. If you're looking for a safe pick, then Jerricho fits the bill, recording a reception in every game he's played in this year. That streak should continue this week (both reception and td) against a Lions defense that's 27th against the pass...giving up over 275 yards a game.
***Big Mike's Match Ups***
DeAndre Hopkins: WR, Houston
Another player that has a reception in every game played this year is Houston's DeAndre Hopkins. In the three games with Case Keenum under center, Hopkins has notched at least 54 yards receiving. And that was against three good pass defenses. The sledding should be easier for Hopkins this week as he faces an Oakland defense that's 22nd against the pass...giving up 247 yards a game.
Bobby Rainey: RB, Tampa Bay
Martin? Out. James? Done. Bobby Rainey...you're next up to bat. Tampa Bay continued to run the ball once James went down in the first quarter last Monday night...and Rainey benefited with 56 total yards and a td. Rainey is set to start this week, and draws a great match up against a Falcons defense that's 27th against the run...giving up over 126 yards a game.
***Going Deep with DP***
Shane Vereen, RB, New England
Shane Vereen, aka...the reason Danny Woodhead was not re-signed, has been removed from the injured reserve list and is scheduled to return to action this Monday night. Yes, the Carolina Panthers have a tough run defense, but Vereen is used in similar fashion as a Woodhead or Sproles...giving you "points by committee". Those points should add up to a quality add to your roster.
Chris Obonnaya, RB, Cleveland
For my deep leagues (12 plus teams) we're about to go DEEP DEEP with Cleveland's Chris Obonnaya. C.O. is already the 3rd down specialist (28 rec 2 tds), and Cleveland has stated this week that he will get more early down work going forward. Translated....he's about to replace Willis McGahee, making him worth a stash.
***Homer Alert***
If you are an owner of San Fransisco's Colin Kaepernick, and you plan to start him this week, then you...my friend...are on homer alert. Kaepernick has struggled lately, throwing for 250 yards just once the past eight weeks. He's also thrown a td just once the past three weeks. Don't look for a breakout performance this week against New Orleans....who are absolutely brutal in the Super Dome (just ask Dallas). The Saints also boast the league's third ranked pass defense. Red flags are falling all over the place on this one.
Be sure to check out Big Mike's College Picks of the Week this Saturday morning.....
Life is a sport...so always play to win! Good Luck!
follow @MichaelJasso @D_Padilla2 @plcolter
Monday, November 11, 2013
Thursday Night game comes at perfect time for Mike Munchak, Titans
The Tennessee Titans just had one of their most embarrassing home losses in quite some time, falling short by two points to the 0-8 Jacksonville Jaguars Sunday afternoon. Rookie first round draft pick, and offensive lineman Chance Warmack offered this statement following his holding penalty that lead to a game altering 4th qtr safety....
"If you mess up on a play, you clap it off and keep on moving. I’m never discouraged because if I make a mistake, I move on forward.”
For the Titans sake, I hope every player and coach in that organization feels that way, because let's face it, that loss was as bad as it gets...especially with so much riding on the game. Luckily for Tennessee, they have to quickly forget about that loss because the division leading Colts come to Music City on Thursday night, and the division title is still up for grabs.
Whether or not the Titans are a playoff team is not up for debate, history has shown that a 7-9 division winner (Seattle) made the playoffs a few years ago, and the 2013 NFC East could boast a division champ with an equal record. What is up for debate is whether or not head coach Mike Munchak can cut it at this level.
Tennessee benefited yesterday from being a small market team. I watched several hours of post game coverage and the Titans loss barely got mentioned. The Colts and Cowboys respective losses dominated the coverage.
Tennessee, and Mike Munchak specifically, won't be so lucky Thursday.
Anyone that has watched the NFL Network's Thursday Night Football pre game show knows that it is long...and extensive. As we say back home..."they get all up in yo business." Some of the warts that are only seen by the die hard fan will be on full display for the world to see. Tennessee's propensity to lose to the worst teams in the league ( 2013 0-8 Jags, 2011 0-13 Colts), qb Jake Locker's inability to stay on the field, Mike Munchak being the first official candidate for the proverbial "hot seat", and when all else fails...CJ's "decline".
If the Titans were smart though, they would use this as an opportunity to re-introduce themselves to the rest of the league. Regardless of yesterday's outcome, they still have a lot to play for. Now we will see what mild mannered Mike Munchak has up his sleeve. Will he succumb to the whoa is me...aw golly gee...life ain't fair mentality? After all, he just lost his starting qb for the remainder of the season right?
Or will he do something that we have not seen under his regime? Light a fire under a team that seems to be content with 8-8. Do you want to show your boss that you can thrive under pressure? Do you want to show a national audience that you belong in the playoff conversation?...that mediocrity is unacceptable? Do you want to leave a positive impression in your one and only nationally televised game?
These are the questions that Mike Munchak and his Titans must answer. And it must be done on the field. The eye in the sky don't lie, and you're the only NFL show in town. No one will remember the loss if you handle business Thursday night. In fact, the new storyline would be that the Colts...not the Titans...are on the decline. But if Tennessee's national perception hasn't changed on Friday morning, then Mike Munchak will have bigger things to worry about than the media.
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"If you mess up on a play, you clap it off and keep on moving. I’m never discouraged because if I make a mistake, I move on forward.”
For the Titans sake, I hope every player and coach in that organization feels that way, because let's face it, that loss was as bad as it gets...especially with so much riding on the game. Luckily for Tennessee, they have to quickly forget about that loss because the division leading Colts come to Music City on Thursday night, and the division title is still up for grabs.
Whether or not the Titans are a playoff team is not up for debate, history has shown that a 7-9 division winner (Seattle) made the playoffs a few years ago, and the 2013 NFC East could boast a division champ with an equal record. What is up for debate is whether or not head coach Mike Munchak can cut it at this level.
Tennessee benefited yesterday from being a small market team. I watched several hours of post game coverage and the Titans loss barely got mentioned. The Colts and Cowboys respective losses dominated the coverage.
Tennessee, and Mike Munchak specifically, won't be so lucky Thursday.
Anyone that has watched the NFL Network's Thursday Night Football pre game show knows that it is long...and extensive. As we say back home..."they get all up in yo business." Some of the warts that are only seen by the die hard fan will be on full display for the world to see. Tennessee's propensity to lose to the worst teams in the league ( 2013 0-8 Jags, 2011 0-13 Colts), qb Jake Locker's inability to stay on the field, Mike Munchak being the first official candidate for the proverbial "hot seat", and when all else fails...CJ's "decline".
If the Titans were smart though, they would use this as an opportunity to re-introduce themselves to the rest of the league. Regardless of yesterday's outcome, they still have a lot to play for. Now we will see what mild mannered Mike Munchak has up his sleeve. Will he succumb to the whoa is me...aw golly gee...life ain't fair mentality? After all, he just lost his starting qb for the remainder of the season right?
Or will he do something that we have not seen under his regime? Light a fire under a team that seems to be content with 8-8. Do you want to show your boss that you can thrive under pressure? Do you want to show a national audience that you belong in the playoff conversation?...that mediocrity is unacceptable? Do you want to leave a positive impression in your one and only nationally televised game?
These are the questions that Mike Munchak and his Titans must answer. And it must be done on the field. The eye in the sky don't lie, and you're the only NFL show in town. No one will remember the loss if you handle business Thursday night. In fact, the new storyline would be that the Colts...not the Titans...are on the decline. But if Tennessee's national perception hasn't changed on Friday morning, then Mike Munchak will have bigger things to worry about than the media.
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Wednesday, November 6, 2013
Fantasy Football Focus: Week 10: Bye Week Replacements
***Opening Rant with New York Nick***
Case Keenum: QB, Houston
If you're down Tom Brady or Aaron Rogers this week (we'll do a separate blog for those who are starting any of those other bye week qbs), then Houston's Case Keenum makes for a solid week 10 play. Keenum scorched a solid Colts defense for 376 total yards and 3 td's last week. Since taking over for Matt Scrub...I mean...Shaub two weeks ago, Keenum has totaled over 600 yards passing and 4td's. The Texans are beat up at rb, so Case will have to show off his arm once again this week against the Cardinals, who by the way, are giving up 254 yards a game through the air.
Terrelle Pryor: QB, Oakland
If Keenum is already snatched up, then Oakland's Terrelle Pryor will make for a nice plan B. Last week, Pryor put up over 380 combined yards against Philly. Yes, Pryor is a spatula (turn over specialist), but he more than makes up for it with his legs...racking up 200 yards on the ground the last two weeks alone. Pryor has a good shot to maintain those numbers this week against the Giants, who are giving up over 240 yards per game through the air, and 100 yards per game on the ground.
***Big Mike's Match Ups***
Rashard Mendenhall: RB, Arizona
Mendenhall returned to practice Monday, his injured toe appears to be healed, and he's set to start this week against Houston. Although back up Andre Ellington will steal some carries, Mendenhall will still get the early down and goal line touches. That's important because Mendenhall has found the end zone two of the past three weeks. Both td's were against top 5 defenses. Houston is 18th against the run, giving up 115 yards a game on the ground. Solid replacement match up.
Marlon Brown: WR, Baltimore
Brown put up 5/54/2 against a tough Browns secondary last week. Both td's were in the red zone, making him a player with upside for week 10. The Ravens run game is...is...where is it? Brown has 5 td's his last 7 games, so it's safe to assume that Joe Flacco will look for Brown in the red zone again this week.
***Going Deep with DP***
Josh McCown: QB, Chicago
McCown acted a fool in front of a national audience last Monday night, torching the Packers for 292 total yards and 2 td's. Since taking over for injured starting qb Jay Cutler, McCown has put up over 500 yards, 3 td's, and no picks. Because of this, the Bears...and even Cutler himself, are hinting to take another week off. If Cutler sits, then McCown is a solid week 10 play. Detroit, this week's opponent, is giving up 272 yards a game through the air.
Andre Brown: RB, New York Giants
For my 12 - 16 team ballers, we're about to go DEEP DEEP with New York Giants rb Andre Brown. The Giants have confirmed that Brown will make his long awaited return this week, and by all accounts, will be immediately inserted into the starting lineup. Conditioning will be an issue, so Brown's touches may be limited this week. But look for Brown to emerge as a solid sleeper to add for your stretch run.
***Homer Alert***
If you are an owner of, and plan to start Atlanta qb Matt Ryan this week, then you...my friend...are on homer alert. Matty Ice has turned into Matty Spatula, handicapping his owners with 7 int's the past two weeks. There are several reasons for that, most of which aren't Ryan's fault. But don't look for the Seahawks defense to lend a shoulder to cry on. Seattle has a league high 13 interceptions...a huge reg flag to stay away this week.
Be sure to check out Big Mike's College Picks this Saturday morning.....
Life is a sport...so always play to win! Good Luck!!
Follow: @MichaelJasso @D_Padilla2 @Nic_torious @plcolter
One Week Wonders
We
all do it, we all sit and watch these one week wonders put up huge
numbers. Instantly, we think to ourselves that come Tuesday we must put
in our bid, because this is next coming of Jerry Rice or Emmitt Smith. My thought process for break out superstars is negative, and I
usually wouldn’t waste my time or waiver request number to pursue them. But
after seeing Marvin Jones put up 122 yards and 4 td's, and Riley Cooper
drop 139 yards with 3 td’s, even I put in my bid. Of course the fantasy
gods laughed and denied my request, just to bring me back to reality. The
next week Marvin Jones didn’t even find the end zone, and guaranteed
Riley Cooper won’t have the same performance for the rest of his career.
Stop allowing the media rerun clips of glitter every 30 minutes to lure
you into something you might regret. Stop allowing the media to send
you mental text messages and voice mails, bullying you as though they were
as powerful as Richard Incognito (had to go there, it’s ridiculous). My
advice, stick to the rivers and the lakes that you’re used to, stick to
the players that have gotten you this far for so many years. ~ New York Nick
“I seen a rainbow yesterday”.…in my Left Eye voice…..but I digress…..
What up Football Family?!? Welcome to week 10 of the fantasy football season! Four more teams on bye (New England, New York Jets, Kansas City, Cleveland), and a significant qb injury, have most of us scrambling for replacements. Good news! The Boys are back in the house with that fantasy news you can use for week 10.
So LETS...GET...STARTED!!!
Case Keenum: QB, Houston
If you're down Tom Brady or Aaron Rogers this week (we'll do a separate blog for those who are starting any of those other bye week qbs), then Houston's Case Keenum makes for a solid week 10 play. Keenum scorched a solid Colts defense for 376 total yards and 3 td's last week. Since taking over for Matt Scrub...I mean...Shaub two weeks ago, Keenum has totaled over 600 yards passing and 4td's. The Texans are beat up at rb, so Case will have to show off his arm once again this week against the Cardinals, who by the way, are giving up 254 yards a game through the air.
Terrelle Pryor: QB, Oakland
If Keenum is already snatched up, then Oakland's Terrelle Pryor will make for a nice plan B. Last week, Pryor put up over 380 combined yards against Philly. Yes, Pryor is a spatula (turn over specialist), but he more than makes up for it with his legs...racking up 200 yards on the ground the last two weeks alone. Pryor has a good shot to maintain those numbers this week against the Giants, who are giving up over 240 yards per game through the air, and 100 yards per game on the ground.
***Big Mike's Match Ups***
Rashard Mendenhall: RB, Arizona
Mendenhall returned to practice Monday, his injured toe appears to be healed, and he's set to start this week against Houston. Although back up Andre Ellington will steal some carries, Mendenhall will still get the early down and goal line touches. That's important because Mendenhall has found the end zone two of the past three weeks. Both td's were against top 5 defenses. Houston is 18th against the run, giving up 115 yards a game on the ground. Solid replacement match up.
Marlon Brown: WR, Baltimore
Brown put up 5/54/2 against a tough Browns secondary last week. Both td's were in the red zone, making him a player with upside for week 10. The Ravens run game is...is...where is it? Brown has 5 td's his last 7 games, so it's safe to assume that Joe Flacco will look for Brown in the red zone again this week.
***Going Deep with DP***
Josh McCown: QB, Chicago
McCown acted a fool in front of a national audience last Monday night, torching the Packers for 292 total yards and 2 td's. Since taking over for injured starting qb Jay Cutler, McCown has put up over 500 yards, 3 td's, and no picks. Because of this, the Bears...and even Cutler himself, are hinting to take another week off. If Cutler sits, then McCown is a solid week 10 play. Detroit, this week's opponent, is giving up 272 yards a game through the air.
Andre Brown: RB, New York Giants
For my 12 - 16 team ballers, we're about to go DEEP DEEP with New York Giants rb Andre Brown. The Giants have confirmed that Brown will make his long awaited return this week, and by all accounts, will be immediately inserted into the starting lineup. Conditioning will be an issue, so Brown's touches may be limited this week. But look for Brown to emerge as a solid sleeper to add for your stretch run.
***Homer Alert***
If you are an owner of, and plan to start Atlanta qb Matt Ryan this week, then you...my friend...are on homer alert. Matty Ice has turned into Matty Spatula, handicapping his owners with 7 int's the past two weeks. There are several reasons for that, most of which aren't Ryan's fault. But don't look for the Seahawks defense to lend a shoulder to cry on. Seattle has a league high 13 interceptions...a huge reg flag to stay away this week.
Be sure to check out Big Mike's College Picks this Saturday morning.....
Life is a sport...so always play to win! Good Luck!!
Follow: @MichaelJasso @D_Padilla2 @Nic_torious @plcolter
Friday, November 1, 2013
Respect tour starts Saturday for Michigan
The University of Michigan is one of the few schools of it's ilk that does not have an official mascot...although my homie Mike could make a strong case for one. Heading into this weekend's match up with rival, and BCS ranked Michigan State, the Wolverines should adopt Rodney Dangerfield as their mascot. You know...the one most famously known for getting no respect? Michigan has every right to feel disrespected...after being slotted at 22 in the initial BCS rankings. Or do they?
The powerhouse sports networks agree with the BCS...citing Michigan's inconsistency, turnover proneness, and close calls against "inferior" opponents as their rationale. All of those facts are...to date...irrefutable, and must be the reason that Michigan dropped in the polls two weeks in a row after winning their game (which...you must admit...doesn't happen often once, let alone twice). Maybe the 2007 loss to Appalachian State is still fresh in the voter's mind.
But supporters from Ann Arbor to Antarctica could plead a different case.
The Michigan Wolverines are 6-1, with their lone loss coming on the road....by three points....in quadruple overtime....to a divisional opponent. Supporters could point to the fact that Michigan has a win over a then top 15 ranked school (Notre Dame), something that other one loss teams (Texas A&M 12th, Texas Tech 15th, Oklahoma St 18th, and Louisville 19th) can't claim. Other schools have 2 losses with no wins over a top 15 opponent (LSU 13th, South Carolina 14th, and UCLA 20th). The Gamecoks even lost to an un ranked Tennessee team two weeks ago. Further evidence that the BCS poll should be the first official poll of the year.
But I digress.
Back to Michigan...for better or worse...the only one who can change their "Rodney Dangerfield" persona is them....starting in East Lansing on Saturday. The Wolverines have two nationally televised games remaining...one against 4th ranked and undefeated Ohio State. Michigan can still win the Big Ten regular season, and conference bowl championship, thus ensuring their slot in the Rose Bowl. Are the Wolverines a 1 loss team that's getting no respect from the voters and national media? Or are they overrated, and lucky to be ranked at all? We will soon find out if the national pundits...or rabid fan base is correct. As soon as Saturday.
follow @plcolter
The powerhouse sports networks agree with the BCS...citing Michigan's inconsistency, turnover proneness, and close calls against "inferior" opponents as their rationale. All of those facts are...to date...irrefutable, and must be the reason that Michigan dropped in the polls two weeks in a row after winning their game (which...you must admit...doesn't happen often once, let alone twice). Maybe the 2007 loss to Appalachian State is still fresh in the voter's mind.
But supporters from Ann Arbor to Antarctica could plead a different case.
The Michigan Wolverines are 6-1, with their lone loss coming on the road....by three points....in quadruple overtime....to a divisional opponent. Supporters could point to the fact that Michigan has a win over a then top 15 ranked school (Notre Dame), something that other one loss teams (Texas A&M 12th, Texas Tech 15th, Oklahoma St 18th, and Louisville 19th) can't claim. Other schools have 2 losses with no wins over a top 15 opponent (LSU 13th, South Carolina 14th, and UCLA 20th). The Gamecoks even lost to an un ranked Tennessee team two weeks ago. Further evidence that the BCS poll should be the first official poll of the year.
But I digress.
Back to Michigan...for better or worse...the only one who can change their "Rodney Dangerfield" persona is them....starting in East Lansing on Saturday. The Wolverines have two nationally televised games remaining...one against 4th ranked and undefeated Ohio State. Michigan can still win the Big Ten regular season, and conference bowl championship, thus ensuring their slot in the Rose Bowl. Are the Wolverines a 1 loss team that's getting no respect from the voters and national media? Or are they overrated, and lucky to be ranked at all? We will soon find out if the national pundits...or rabid fan base is correct. As soon as Saturday.
follow @plcolter
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