Monthly Archives: September 2007

2007 Fantasy Football Review – Week 2

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This Week’s Top Team: 150+ points??? Not quite, maybe if I took Carson – Week 2 had me at 108 – just barely floating above the century mark.QB: Peyton Manning vs. Tennessee: Manning finished 13th overall in my league, making me wish I would have gone with my gut and took Carson Palmer. Hell, I went for the safe pick, and bingo bango bongo, I get 14 fantasy points instead of one million. Blast!

RB: Travis Henry vs. Oakland: TH didn’t get a score in Week 2, but he remained a work-horse option, finishing with 128 yards, and over the century mark for the second straight ball game. Overall, Henry only finished in a tie for 14th, so it wasn’t a great day, but he was a yard away from 5th, he came up the length of a football away from a score in the 4th quarter. 12 points is admirable.

RB: Frank Gore vs. St. Louis: Gore tied for second in the league in fantasy points for running backs, so I have to stand by this pick as a good one. You could have gone with Jamal Lewis or Marion Barber, both cheaper options, but Gore was more of a sure thing. A nice 22 point week is a good thing.

WR: Reggie Wayne vs. Tennessee: Reggie didn’t have the scores to go with his yards this week. His 5 catches for 70 yards isn’t even worth looking at rankings, so I took a hit selecting this Colts’ wideout. 7 points.

WR: Terrell Owens vs. Miami: Well, TO didn’t put up Steve Smith or Chad Johnson type numbers, but he did snag 5 balls for 97 yards and a touchdown in Dallas’s win over the Dolphins. I’ll take his 15 points, but I won’t be too happy with his 10th place finish for WRs.

TE: Kellen Winslow vs. Bengals: Winslow was a beast, grabbing 6 balls for 100 yards and a touchdown. He outproduced Antonio Gates, the true best TE in the league, so I’ll take 16 points from the TE spot any day of the week, and finally a guy who finished #1 in his position.

K: Olindo Mare vs. Tampa Bay: Mare kicked two late PATs for a Saints team that has looked no short of terrible this year. 2 pts… Nice.

D: Bears vs. Chiefs: The Bears ended up allowing 10 points more than I expected to the Chiefs. But Hester did take one to the house, and Chicago’s defense was dirty all day long. They grabbed me 19 fantasy points, good for 3rd overall. Not too bad, I guess.

LUCKY’S Week 2 SLEEPERS

Tarvaris Jackson: “Nobody will start Jackson,” (me) And for good reason apparently. I figured TJ would do more damage against a bad Lions secondary, but I was dead wrong. Jackson finished 28th in the fantasy format for quarterbacks, making him, unstartable. F

Jeff Garcia: “The most beautiful man in football should get plenty of opportunities to throw the rock against the Saints this weekend. …Garcia will have to find Joey Galloway for over a 100 yards… Garcia will have a nice day, especially for a guy starting in 3% of fantasy leagues.” Jeff came through like a champ for me. He may look like a bad police sketch of a homeless thief, but he was 6th in the league for QBs, busting out a solid 19 spot. A+

Jerious Norwood: Norwood still didn’t get enough touches to be starterworth, when that will happen, only Jesus and Bobby Patrino know. As for a sleeper pick, its not like Jerious put up terrible points, but not worth starting either – I’ll take a C-, here.

Maurice Jones Drew: “MJD was one of the many disappointing fantasy players in Week 1.” Drew still isn’t getting enough touches, and thus he was a bad option in Week 2 as well. Its not time to trade him, as selling low is about as bad of an option as signing OJ Simpson, so keep Drew on the bench, and wait for a smarter coaching staff to emerge. D-

Santonio Holmes: Holmes had 53 yards, just like my other sleeper candidate, and for the second straight week, my fantasy receivers came out equal in grades. I’ll take a C- here. Holmes didn’t score, and the Steelers relied more on the run game than Big Ben’s arm.

Vincent Jackson: Jackson had 53 yards, which wasn’t terrible, but it wasn’t as good as I expected. He had a couple scoring chances that fell just short, wide, or long – but I expect big things from VJ in the weeks to come when San Diego doesn’t face New England or Chicago. I’ll take a C-

Marcades Lewis: Lewis had 39 yards, good for 3 fantasy points. I expected a couple more, and hopefully, if you started him, he was better than your other guy. Chances are, he was very close. I’ll hold a C- here, if only because TE’s stink.

Cowboys DST: Well, the Boys came back strong, running the Dolphins for 16 fantasy points, not bad considering they gave up 20 points. Lots of turnovers from Trent Green – weird. 7th overall – good for an A-.

LUCKY’S Week 2 Saints
(Seeing as though the Saints sucked again, I feel this name shall remain – if you have a better one, write in, I like suggestions)

Mike Vick: Vick should be in prison by now if he wants to get back to the league in a timely matter. He still isn’t behind bars, making him and his law staff seem inadequate, so I’ll give myself an A+ for this one, even out of the league this guys’ fantasy resume is sucking balls.

Matt Leinart: Matt was 14th in the league with 13 fantasy points, so he probably could have been started out there, and though he didn’t have a terrible day, its not like he was solid either. The fact that he finished ahead of Big Ben, Jay Butler, and Phillip Rivers among others, means I should probably get a C- for this pick.

Larry Johnson: This TD machine only piled up 8 fantasy points, carrying the ball 16 times for 55 yards, but catching 3 passes for 30 yards. No scores for LJ, and you have to think, his line is going to make his life very difficult. B

Thomas Jones: TJ had 8 fantasy points, and while that isn’t a total you’d like from you starting running back, it doesn’t make him a Saint. Jones will improve from here, but his 67 yards on 24 carries gives me at least a B- for telling you to stay away
from TJ. B

Ronald Curry: Curry had 3 points. Told you so. A

Tony Gonzalez: Gonzo had 4 fantasy points, which I would say is bad, except he was tied for 14th overall, so hell, he was a decent start. I’ll still take at least a C for this, if only because TE’s suck, and you should never pick them high.

2007 Fantasy Football theRUNDOWN Week 3

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This Week’s Top Team: Okay, last week was much like Week 1, and I’m tired of being just good enough to stay over the century mark, so I have some big changes going into this week’s rundown… Get ready, I’m about to knock some socks off.

QB: Tom Brady vs. Buffalo: This is a no-brainer in my opinion. The Patriots have been great, and Tom Brady has been unreal, plus I expect their defense to struggle a little bit this week as Buffalo’s tandem of Lee Evans and JP Losman will play better. But Tom will outshine those two, and pickup about 25 points for me.

RB: Brian Westbrook vs. Detroit: I expect Brian to get about 15 carries for 100 yards, but through the air is where I expect him to do most of his damage. Detroit’s secondary couldn’t keep up with Keyshawn Johnson, so I don’t expect them to even realize how fast Westbrook burned past them. The Eagles need a win, and to get it, they’ll rely on their most explosive player.

RB: LaDainian Tomlinson vs. Green Bay: Honestly, I think the world of Green Bay’s defense – I just don’t see LT having 3 bad weeks in a row. He’s the best player in the league, and his offensive line is solid. When this week is all said and done, I expect LT to have more Week 3 fantasy points than any other player.

WR: Steve Smith vs. Atlanta: There isn’t a corner in the league I’d pick to shut down Steve Smith. Atlanta doesn’t have the greatest defense and Smith is THE weapon in Carolina. Atlanta knows it, Jake Delhomme knows it, and John Fox (who knows very little) knows it as well. But nobody thinks Steve Smith will struggle on Sunday.

WR: Randy Moss vs. Buffalo: You probably saw this coming, I took Randy Moss, fresh off of producing big enough stats to change the name of my Bad Plays of the week from the Randy Moss’s – to now becoming a top receiver from this week’s action. Well, Randy is back, and I love it. Seeing as though I expect Tom Brady to have a big day, I think Randy Moss is sure to catch a couple touchdowns against one of the worst secondaries in the league.

TE: Chris Cooley vs. Giants: Last week I picked a tight end not name Antonio Gates, and the kid stepped up and produced the top fantasy score for TEs in Week 2. So, I’ll move away from Gates again, and go for the TE who should torment the Giants secondary.

K: Josh Brown vs. Cincinnati: The Hawks will move the ball easily and Josh Brown could be the guy winning the game in Seattle. I expect about 4 field goals from this game winning K in the rainy state.

D: Vikings vs. Chiefs: Larry Johnson says he wants 40 carries in this game. Larry, I don’t think your team will have the ball for that long, big guy. I love LJ, and think he’s right up there with LT at the top of NFL running backs, but the Vikings are built to kill the Chiefs.

LUCKY’S Week 3 SLEEPERS

Tarvaris Jackson: Nobody will start Jackson, but against a Detroit secondary that has nobody to stop even the most anemic of wide receiving corps, I think Jackson will have a couple touchdown passes. That will rank him in the Top 15 of Week 2 quarterbacks, and probably make him start-worth for some unlucky fantasy team out there.

Jeff Garcia: Jeff makes a return to my sleeper list, this week, and looky there, that coincides with another easy match-up. The Ram secondary is very similar to the very poor unit in New Orleans, so it should be wide open receivers for Jeff and the Bucs.

Derek Ward: DW will be getting all the carries for the second week in a row, and despite the Redskins’ solid ranking against the run this season, I expect a century mark for Ward, at least.

Maurice Jones Drew: The Jaguars play the Broncos, a team that has a stellar secondary and a questionable front line of defense. The Jaguars a strictly a running team that has been pretending to be something else in recent weeks. I expect Jones Drew to get 15+ touches, and that means a big day for the little guy.

Thomas Jones: After two very tough match-ups and a bad leg, Jones will finally show what he’s made of against the Dolphins in Week 3. I expect Jones to have a huge week, so if you can get him cheap, pull that trigger.

Ronald Curry: RC is back and he’s ready to explode like he did in Week 1. Yes, the Raiders have what I’d call a solid fantasy match-up in Week 3. A talented young speedy receiver – check. A coach who likes to throw the rock – check. A quarterback with a big arm – check. And the last and most important ingredient, the Browns secondary. Checkmate.

Vincent Jackson: I like Vince to pull home around 100 yards and a touchdown in Week 3. I know that’s crazy speak because not only is the Packers’ defense solid, but the Chargers’ offense has been pathetic. But, you heard it here first, Norv will turn the passing game loose this week, using it to set up LT. The Chargers will walk over the Packers, and Vincent will have a big day.

Eric Johnson: It seems like TEs get easy action from the Titans defense, so I expect EJ to be big this week. He’ll have room, and Drew Brees will settle for the sure thing more in this one, so a decent day from EJ is an option.

Cowboys DST: The Cowboys were a good option last week, as I predicted, and this week will be much of the same. The Cowboys could capitalize big time if Rex has one of those Rex days. However, this is a risky pick because Rex could always have one of those other Rex days.

LUCKY’S Week 3 Bench Riders

We’ll go with bench riders until I become more clever… Could be a while. I’m also done picking on Mike, he needs no more pub.

Matt Leinart: Baltimore’s in town this week. Yep. That’s about all I have to say about that one.

Larry Johnson: I don’t like Larry’s match-up in Week 3, regardless of the improved workload he’s expected to get. Like I said in another article this week, the Vikings are built to stop the Chiefs offense.

Edgerrin James: This seems like an easy pick, but I’m not sure, he might get around 70 yards. Either way, 7 points from your starting running back isn’t a good option.

Braylon Edwards: Braylon had a huge week in Week 2, but I don’t see him terrorizing the Raiders like he did the Bengals. Edwards is solid, and some fantasy gurus are quick to point out the Raiders’ short comings in the secondary this year, but they’re wrong. Numbers are one thing, but the Raiders have been solid and their ranking will only improve when thy shut down the Browns in Week 3.

Todd Heap: Heap is a must start in most leagues, but I don’t see him doing much more than 4 catches for 40 yards against the Arizona Cardinals. Their safety unit is premium.

Fantasy Football Tear Jerkers – Week 3

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Fantasy Football Know-It-All

WOW! Week 3 had more than a few tear jerkers, some being the same old contributors from Weeks 1 and 2 – well, I’m here to rip them a new one, and alleviate some of the pressure building up in that fantasy dungeon of a depression that’s accumulating on the message boards. Here is a group of donkeys that really pulled a Hee-Haw in Week 3.

Steve Smith: The mighty mouse of the NFL struggled to find anything in Week 3, as Atlanta made sure that the little stud wideout would have nothing to do with a win for the Panthers. However, everyone worrying about Smith did give plenty of opportunities to the Panthers’ rushing attack, allowing Deshaun Foster to go for 122 yards and a score – well, that didn’t help Smith fans out at all, but lets be honest, you’ll be starting him next week, no doubt in my mind.

Larry Johnson: LJ got 20+ carries, which would have made owners happy if he didn’t use those 24 carries to go for a historic 42 yards. Yes, that’s history for LJ, as he’s never had that many carries for that low of a YPC average. In fact, I’m willing to guarantee that the Chief running beast hasn’t had that many carries with that low of a fantasy total in his entire career. Nice work, eh?

Marc Bulger: Mr. Marc “Underrated, everyone should pick him over McNabb” Bulger hasn’t had a very good entry to 2007, and I’m not sure if it’s going to get much brighter from here. Bulger had -2 fantasy points in Week 3, and looked Terrible, with a capital T. Another starting lineman down, and that makes 3 backups for Bulger, who is a very stationary quarterback. Think, one of those British soldier guys that never move all day long. Well, Bulger needs to improve if the Rams want to be anything close to what they were last year, and keep themselves out of the NFC West cellar.

Tatum Bell: Bell was supposed to be Mike Martz’ new Marshall Faulk, and Kevin Jones was supposed to have a hard time finding playing time when he returned from injuries. Well, 20 yards rushing and receiving will give a guy 4 fantasy points, and a spot on the bench in the next few weeks in Detroit.

Maurice Jones Drew: Maurice Jones Drew continues to disappoint. Last week, he got enough carries to be a factor against a relatively poor rushing defense in Denver, but he didn’t do anything worth while. Jones Drew had just over 2 yards per carry, and enough fantasy points to realize that you messed up when you selected him as a breakout candidate for this season. It will be tough sledding for Jones Drew to approach the fantasy numbers he had last season.

Lee Evans: Lee Evans lost his starting quarterback early in the Bills contest against the patriots, and once again, Lee Evans wasn’t even close to the Top 10 guy everyone expected him to be. I personally dig Lee’s game, but if nobody can get him the ball, what good is he? I’m waiting two more weeks before I try to add a receiver to make up for Lee’s lack of production, but don’t trade him so soon, next week he plays a “normal” defense for the first time this season. Remember, he started against Denver’s secondary, Pittsburgh’s, and then New England – all three have been fantasy suicide to receivers this season. The Jets? Not so much.

Jeff Wilkins: Dead eye Jeff was 1 for 3 this weekend, missing two 40 yarders and hitting one extra point – nice work Jeff, I don’t normally put kickers on my fantasy tear jerkers list, but since the Rams have done dick, you definitely deserve to be on here for being the one guy who got chances to score in St. Louis and still failing miserably.

Javon Walker: Javon Walker didn’t do anything against a secondary that hasn’t been good this season. Jacksonville has some young speedsters, but this go-to guy shouldn’t be getting shut down like he did against the Jaguars. He had 2 catches and 1 rush, neither for enough yards to register more than his one fantasy point. Jeff, you’re killing me buddy. If you had only stayed in Green Bay, you would have had a healthy portion of Brett’s 300+ yards on Sunday.

Rex Gossman: Yikes! I was cheering for Rex, and I always have been. I think this kid gets way too much hatred from football fans, and honestly, he hasn’t deserved it. But anyone who has started the season the way he has deserves at least most of the criticism that comes his way. Unless Rex pulls his head out of his poop, he’s going to have a long, or short, season in Chicago. Neither will be good for the once promising young signal caller.

(Also considered; -Everyone in Buffalo besides Marshawn Lynch, any non rookie starting running back hopeful that had lots of upside coming into the season, anyone in Minnesota besides Adrian Peterson) , Rudi Johnson (if only for his horrendous 17 rushes for 9 yards – not a happy stat), and Deshawn Wynn (only because of the 24,930 people who picked him up in Yahoo leagues and especially those who started him – its their fault Deshawn)

Free College Football Picks Week 4 – 2007

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Can I post yet another winning handful of picks in Week 4? Ah, that is the question. I will go in with these 5 squads, and go headfirst, with the confidence paralleling the brave 300. Hopefully I don’t hit the skids in the end like those guys in the movie – on the other hand, if I can get some abs like that, I’ll give up the last few years of my life and spend the next 20 years lifting up my shirt instead of using dumb pickup lines. Either way, here’s my Free Picks for Week 4.

LUCKY LESTER’S Free NCAA Football Picks

Florida Gators (-23) @ Mississippi Rebels: 9/22/07 12:30pm EST
I’d be hard pressed to find a team in the Nation as good as the Gators. Florida can do it defensively and with the ball, making opposing teams look foolish every time out. The Rebels are solid, but they don’t have the players to match up with the Gators. I understand that this is a tough game for Florida, as they just knocked of Tennessee last week, but I have a feeling that Tim Tebow leads too much by example for the Gators to struggle in this one. That kid loves to compete, and beat the piss out of you he will.

Duke Blue Devils @ Navy Midshipmen (-12): 9/22/07 1:00pm EST
Duke ended their 22 game losing streak last week. It made me sad. What better way to celebrate one of the Nation’s longest losing streaks than by losing to a military team? That’s what I’m saying. I’m also saying that Navy isn’t as bad as a 1-2 record would insist. They’ve played solid football this season, and I expect them to route the Blue Devils in this one.

Kentucky Wildcats (+7) @ Arkansas Razorbacks: 9/22/07 6:00pm EST
Believe it or not, Kentucky has won 2 of the last 3 games between these two clubs. Last time these teams played, in 2003, the Razorbacks won 71-63. To be honest, I really think the world of both these clubs, and both will get their character tested because each squad played a huge game last week. Kentucky beat Louisville and Arkansas lost to Alabama by a field goal. The truth of the matter is, I think Andre’ Woodson is special, like Darren McFadden special, except the difference here is, Woodson is a quarterback, and in College Football, I’ll take a talented team with a special QB over a talented squad with a top notch RB. I think Kentucky has more balance, and therefore will win this game. You’ve got to like the points, too.

Michigan State Spartans (+12) @ Notre Dame Fighting Irish: 9/22/07 3:30pm EST
I don’t like either of these teams, but what has Notre Dame showed to be anything more than a 25 point dog? Sure, they are Notre Dame, but this week they lost their opening day starting quarterback to a transfer. How did he break the news to Charlie Weis and the staff? He didn’t make the bus trip to Michigan. C’mon. The Irish are falling hard, to the point where a couple wins seems unlikely. Anyone… Is Temple or Duke scheduled? I didn’t like the Spartans to start the season, but the new coaching staff has proven to be impressive, so I’ll easily take them here.

Arizona Wildcats @ California Golden Bears (-16): 9/22/07 6:00pm EST
I am one of the guys that believes the Bears are WAY better than they’ve been playing. However, that shouldn’t matter too much this week, as even at their steady pace, they are 3 scores better than the Wildcats. I understand that Arizona has been known to surprise from time to time, but a 1-2 Wildcat team that lost to BYU by 13 and New Mexico, shouldn’t come even close the Bears. This could be the breakout game the Bears offense has been waiting for.

Week 2 NFL Picks Review: 2007

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My 5-3-1 Week 1 was followed by a nail biter that came down to Monday Night. I started off hot, and hopefully you did too, but my end game wasn’t what I’d hoped it would be, and sure enough, I struggled. Follow my ups and downs in my week 2 Review.

Atlanta Falcons (+11) @ Jacksonville Jaguars: (win)

“I hate to do this, but the Jaguars favored history just isn’t very appealing. I expect a 20-13 game here, and I also expect it to go by fast. Over the last 3 seasons, the Jaguars are 1-6 ATS when giving 7.5 or more points. Their only win came last year against Tennessee on the 5th of November.” (Me) Well, my analysis was right on the dot, minus 7 points from each team. The Jags, as I predicted, weren’t ready to take enough chances to outshoot the Falcons. They were in control, and won the game, but Jacksonville won’t be able to do too much of that if they want to win games.

Buffalo Bills @ Pittsburgh Steelers (-9.5): (win)

“I just don’t see this game being closer than 10 points. I know its not cool to take 10 point favorites like the Steelers, but defensively, they looked special last week in Cleveland. I know the Phoenix Suns’ defense would look good against the Browns, but the Steelers’ defense has that swagger back. Big Ben should find plenty of room to throw the ball in Buffalo’s secondary. Willie Parker will have upwards of 150 yards, and the Steelers should win by 2 touchdowns.” Well, Pitt won by 3 scores, and Willie stayed under 150, but not by much. The Steelers didn’t need to throw the ball too much in this contest, as the Bills’ offense was even worse than I imagined. Buffalo didn’t stand a chance.

Green Bay Packers (+1.5) @ New York Giants: (win)

“The Packers haven’t been very good over the past 3 seasons, but on the road they show heart. Not only are they 14-9-2 ATS over the last 3 years, but they are 12-13 SU on the road as well. The Giants’ defense isn’t going to shut down the Packers’ offense like the Eagles did. Yes, the Packers have rebuilt their team around a talented defense, and they will give the Giants trouble, even if Manning shows up. It will be interesting, but after playing 2 quality NFC East opponents in the first 2 weeks of the season, I expect the Pack to be 2-0.” Hey, the Packers surprised everyone, except me. I said it, even if Eli played, the Pack defense would run his show. These young packers could lead Brett back to the playoffs. But this week, how ’bout the old man, tossing touchdowns like his Pro-Bowl days. Starting off with 3 wins usually means good things… Usually turned into “Not this Sunday” really fast.

Houston Texans @ Carolina Panthers (-6.5): (loss)

“The Panthers are 11-14 ATS at home over the last 3 seasons, and they’ve never won more than 5 games at home during that time span. They aren’t a home team hero, that’s for sure. The Panthers are only 8-6 ATS as a 6+ point favorite over the last 3 seasons, but they’ve won 9 of their last 10 games favored by 6 or more, and are 8-2 ATS over that time. I think the Texans are much better this season, but also think they aren’t as good as their 20-3 score against the Chiefs showed last week.” Carolina looked pathetic, and the Texans are as good as their 20-3 win over the Chiefs. Matt Schaub is the real deal, I’ve been saying it for years. I need to listen to my research. I know the Panthers have covered big spreads recently, but those were against bad teams. In the first few weeks of the season, big spreads are put up against decent teams, which was the case here. Dang me, sorry.

Indianapolis Colts (-7) @ Tennessee Titans: (loss)

“Vince Young skipped his way to 10-2-2 ATS as a starter in this league, which makes him a bettors best friend. Unless you’re me, and you keep betting against the young star from Texas.” Uh, the Colts were up easy, then let one of those simple don’t matter, let Vince Young cover touchdowns in, and then all of a sudden VY and company had a chance. And they that chance was dashed, but is there anybody better at covering than Vince? 11-2-2… That’s championship material. Now if only I’d pay heed.

San Francisco 49ers @ St. Louis Rams (-3): (loss)

“This is a very tough game for me, but I have to go with the Rams, if only because they have a guy named Steven Jackson trying to redeem himself after a pathetic Week 1 performance where he literally fumbled the game away. The Rams were already without Todd Steussie, and now Orlando Pace is out for the season, but the 49ers gave up rushing yards by the bundles to Arizona in Week 1. Steven Jackson’s opening Week 1 disappointment could continue as he’ll have a tough time getting anywhere without blockers paving the way.” This game was way too close to be comfortable with, and I warned you, but it looks like I should have listened to myself a little more when deciding my take on the game… The Rams will have a tough go without lineman blocking.

Minnesota Vikings @ Detroit Lions (-3): (push)

“I know the Vikings shut down the Falcons in Week 1, but remember, Minnesota’s defense scored more points than their offense. Minnesota won’t get that lucky every week, as I can’t imagine they return two interceptions for touchdowns ever again this season.” It turns out I was wrong. The Vikings scored yet another defensive touchdown, and Darren Sharper forced a fumble and had two interceptions. This defense is tight. However, the Viking offense was even less productive in Week 2 than they were in Week 1, and that left room for the Vikings to get the game winning field goal, and a big fat push.

Kansas City Chiefs @ Chicago Bears (-12): (loss) The Chiefs are bad, but like defenses do sometimes, the Bears let up a little when it was obvious that the Chiefs offense was levels below the Bears defense. A touchdown that didn’t matter put this game out of reach for a Bears offense that looks very bad. Another loss all but assured me a losing week 2.

N.Y. Jets +12 @ Baltimore Ravens: (win)

“I like the Ravens to win this one, but their offensive game plan and execution last week weren’t enough to gain them 12 points against New York, even if they do have to rest Chad Pennington. I expect a better performance out of the Jets running game, even against feared Baltimore.” (me) Yeah, I picked this one on the dot. The Ravens were obviously the better team here, and aside from the last half of the last quarter, the Jets never really had a chance. However, 12 points was way too much, and the Jets covered easily.

Washington Redskins @ Philadelphia Eagles (-6.5): (loss)

I was pretty sure the Eagles would come out and blast a Redskins team that has had a lot of trouble with the green birds over the last 10 ball games. However, it was the Eagles’ playcalling and poor execution that decided this game. Sure, Philly still had a chance coming down the stretch, but they didn’t do anything impressive the entire game. In face, aside from Brian Westbrook, who was and is a very special player, the Eagles looked lost on offense. There was dropped balls, and plays where 4 receivers ran routes and not a one could get anything close to open. My idea of what the Eagles are is changing fast. The Eagles were my pivot game, and surely enough, they took me to the cleaners, bringing my total to 4-5-1… Not a good day, but on a day of crazy upsets, I’ll take the 4 wins when I can get them. Still over .500 and I’ll push for a big week in Number 3.

Week 3 College Football Picks Review: 2007

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Week 3 went well for Old Lucky Lester. I managed a 3-2 winning score in my free picks, and went 3-1-1 with my pay picks. That brings my pay picks to 7-2-1 over the last 2 weeks, and from the feel of it, this college football pick ’em is getting easier and easier.

LUCKY LESTER’S Free NCAA Football Picks

West Virginia Mountaineers (-16.5) @ Maryland Terrapins: (win)
West Virginia just covered the spread in this one, but just covered is a Win, and last time I checked, this game, like any other, is measured by wins and losses. An early win set me up for a nice week.

Cincinnati Bearcats (-9) @ Miami (Ohio): (win)
The Bearcats covered nicely, giving me my second Big East win in as many chances in Week 3. I tell ya, watch out for these teams, they are better than many give them credit for.

UCLA Bruins (-13.5) @ Utah Utes: (loss)
“UCLA hasn’t been as dominant as I’d like them to have been thus far, but they are winning football games by a solid margin. The people who know college football best think the Bruins should be rated about 10 spots higher than they are.” (Me) Apparently the Bruins shouldn’t be rated 10 spots higher than they are, more like 10 spots lower, or not rated at all. Utah stuck it too and overly confident team from Southern California. I bet they liked that out there on the banks of that big ass salty lake.

Boston College Eagles @ Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets (-7): (loss)
I was completely tricked in this one. The Jackets played poorly right off the bat, and they never got on track. Surely, BC was ready for everything the Yellow Jackets do offensively, and GT just couldn’t move the ball. Matt Ryan did was he does, and the Eagles are looking good at top the ACC.

Florida State Seminoles (+6**) @ Colorado Buffaloes: (win)
Well, what can I say, the Seminoles won easily against the Buffs. FSU may be in a lull, but, talentwise, the Buffs just can’t hang with the Noles. This game was a gimmie, I hope you won big like I did, here.

**The wrong character was used for the spread. When the pick was made the point spread was actually -6 and not +6. It doesn’t really matter though because I won anyways. The error was discussed over at theRXforum.com.

Here’s my Week 3 Elite Picks for NCAA College Football. 2 big winners in a row…

Arkansas Razorbacks (+3) @ Alabama Crimson Tide (push)
Tennessee Volunteers @ Florida Gators (-8): (win)
Duke Blue Devils @ Northwestern Wildcats (-16.5) (loss)
Louisiana Tech Bulldogs (+33.5) @ California Golden Bears (win)
USC Trojans (-10) @ Nebraska Cornhuskers (win)

Free NFL Football Picks 07-08 Week 2

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Week 1 is in the books, and I’m 5-3-1 to start the season. I’m not saying its Championship material, but a winning week is a winning week, and I’ll take it all year long. This is a week full of favorites with big point spreads, most are justified, while some are not. Follow along as I make my Free NFL Picks for Week 2.

Atlanta Falcons (+11) @ Jacksonville Jaguars:

I hate to do this, but the Jaguars favored history just isn’t very appealing. I expect a 20-13 game here, and I also expect it to go by fast. Over the last 3 seasons, the Jaguars are 1-6 ATS when giving 7.5 or more points. There only win came last year against Tennessee on the 5th of November. The Falcons looked terrible in Week 1, but I have a feeling they’ll be better if they give more carries to Jerious Norwood. Joey Harrington can have his good games, and since Jacksonville will do anything in their power to stop the Falcons running attack, I think Joey could have a solid day in Jacksonville. This game is a bit of a toss up with, but with a spread as high as 10, I have to take the Falcons, if only because neither offense has shown me an ability to cover big spreads. This is the first game in the last 3 seasons that the Falcons are getting more than 7 points.

Buffalo Bills @ Pittsburgh Steelers (-9.5):

I’m not sure if the Steelers are as good as they played last week, and I’m positive that the Bills offense will be better than they were last week, but even with those two things coming together, I just don’t see this game being closer than 10 points. I know its not cool to take 10 point favorites like the Steelers, but defensively, they looked special last week in Cleveland. I know the Phoenix Suns’ defense would look good against the Browns, but the Steelers’ defense has that swagger back. Big Ben should find plenty of room to throw the ball in Buffalo’s secondary. Willie Parker will have upwards of 150 yards, and the Steelers should win by 2 touchdowns.

Green Bay Packers (+1) @ New York Giants:

The Packers haven’t been very good over the past 3 seasons, but on the road they show heart. Not only are they 14-9-2 ATS over the last 3 years, but they are 12-13 SU on the road as well. The Giants’ defense isn’t going to shut down the Packers’ offense like the Eagles did, and if Eli Manning doesn’t play, the Giant don’t even stand a chance against one of the best young defenses in the NFL. Yes, the Packers have rebuilt their team around a talented defense, and they will give the Giants trouble, even if Manning shows up. It will be interesting, but after playing 2 quality NFC East opponents in the first 2 weeks of the season, I expect the Pack to be 2-0.

Houston Texans @ Carolina Panthers (-6.5):

The Panthers are 11-14 ATS at home over the last 3 seasons, and they’ve never won more than 5 games at home during that time span. They aren’t a home team hero, that’s for sure. The Panthers are only 8-6 ATS as a 6+ point favorite over the last 3 seasons, but they’ve won 9 of their last 10 games favored by 6 or more, and are 8-2 ATS over that time. I think the Texans are much better this season, but also think they aren’t as good as their 20-3 score against the Chiefs showed last week. Carolina has a more cohesive unit, and Houston will have to show a lot more to shut down the Panthers. I rarely take the Panthers as a favorite, and they haven’t showed much strength at home, but I have a feeling they’ll win by at least a touchdown against the Texans this weekend.

Indianapolis Colts (-7) @ Tennessee Titans:

Vince Young skipped his way to 10-2-2 ATS as a starter in this league, which makes him a bettors best friend. Unless you’re me, and you keep betting against the young star from Texas. I’m not taking the Colts because their defense was so dominant last week against New Orleans, but because their offense is too much for the Titans. Peyton knows what he has to do on a weekly basis to win, and this week he’ll do just that. The Titans beat the Colts late last season, and easily covered the spread in their first meeting, losing a nail-biter, 14-13 in Tennessee. Last season, the Colts were only 4-6-1 ATS when favored by 7 or more points. Regardless of all the numbers telling me to go a different direction, I think this game won’t be close. The Colts will do a better job against the Titans running attack than the Jaguars did, and thus Vince will have to beat them through the air. Jacksonville’s lack of a passing game was the main reason they couldn’t put up points on Tennessee last week. The Colts won’t have that problem.

San Francisco 49ers @ St. Louis Rams (-3):

This is a very tough game for me, but I have to go with the Rams, if only because they have a guy named Steven Jackson trying to redeem himself after a pathetic Week 1 performance where he literally fumbled the game away. The Rams were already without Todd Steussie, and now Orlando Pace is out for the season, but the 49ers gave up rushing yards by the bundles to Arizona in Week 1. Steven Jackson’s opening Week 1 disappointment could continue as he’ll have a tough time getting anywhere without blockers paving the way, but if the 49ers put 8 in the box, Torry Holt, Isaac Bruce and Marc Bulger will surely make them pay. San Francisco was lucky to get a win in Week 1, while the Rams killed themselves. Each team will be 1-1 after Week 2, in familiar territory, chasing the Seahawks and ahead of the Cardinals.

Minnesota Vikings @ Detroit Lions (-3):

I know the Vikings shut down the Falcons in Week 1, but remember, Minnesota’s defense score more points than their offense. Minnesota won’t get that lucky ever week, as I can’t imagine they return two interceptions for touchdowns ever again this season. The way I see it, Atlanta didn’t have passing attack that could attack the Vikings defense where they are the most vulnerable, their secondary. Detroit has a foursome of wide receivers who can get open and catch the ball with the best of them. Furrey, Roy Williams, Calvin Johnson, and Shaun McDonald all contributed last week against a solid secondary in Oakland. The Lions have confidence going in to Week 2, something the Vikings offense doesn’t have. Detroit will put 8 and 9 in the box, making Tarvaris Jackson beat them through the air. He won’t, Detroit will win.

Kansas City Chiefs @ Chicago Bears (-12):

Yes, the Chiefs are that bad. Chicago looked brutal offensively in Week 1. They’ll be better, even against a pretty solid Chief defense. If the Bears can score two touchdowns in this game, they’ll cover with ease. I want to call a shutout here, but they are so rare in the NFL. Oh, what the hell, Chicago shuts the Chiefs out. Also, I think Rex throws two touchdowns for the Bears. I don’t think Cedric Benson will have a big day, but Devin Hester will do something Devin Hesterish from the receiver position, and Chicago wins easily to get their first W of the year.

N.Y. Jets (+12) @ Baltimore Ravens:

I like the Ravens to win this one, but their offensive game plan and execution last week weren’t enough to gain them 12 points against New York, even if they do have to rest Chad Pennington. You forget, many people would say that Kellen Clemens can stretch a defense much more than Chad. I think Pennington is better right now, but Baltimore could jump short routes against him, but with Clemens I’m not so sure. He’ll beat you deep. I expect a better performance out of the Jets running game, even against feared Baltimore. The Ravens might have to limit Steve McNair as well – this game should be close, with injuries and backups playing a big roll. I’ll take that huge point total in this one.

Washington Redskins @ Philadelphia Eagles (-6.5):

I don’t know about 7 point spreads. 6.5, I don’t mind, but 7, ugh, pushes are so common. The reason I’m taking the Eagles in this divisional rivalry game is mainly because they were so pathetic last week in Green Bay. See, the Eagles are a very good football team, and the only thing I was worried about was if their defense would get back to dominance. Well, they made the Packers’ offense look like Duke’s football team, and if it weren’t for 3 fluke muffed punts, they would have easily won Sunday’s game. They have to be pissed, and I’ll take a pissed off Eagle team any day of the week. The 7 point spread shouldn’t be too tough to get early, but holding onto it late could be difficult. I have to take the Eagles in this one.

Ask Papa Weimer Fantasy Football Know-It-All Sept 15

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I’m rolling into Week 9 of my questions section, and I must say, with all the bad fantasy play in week 1 from some first round picks, I didn’t get nearly enough terrible questions. However, I did get a couple, which always makes me happy as can be. If you look closely, there’s a couple good questions as well. Keep the questions coming, they keeps me regular. – Papa Weimer

Drop me your Fantasy Questions @ papaweimer50@hotmail.com

Steven Jackson looked terrible in Week 1, fumbling and bumbling to 1 stinking fantasy point – I’m thinking about offering him for Edgerrin James, who looked solid in his game against he 49ers – what do you think? – Hamilton the Great in Lexington, Kentucky.

Ham, I think that’s a great idea; I mean, Edgerrin James had a solid game against one of the lesser rushing defenses on the market. Jackson had one bad game against a very good defense in the Carolina Panthers – and those two fumbles will almost surely carry him around all season long. Maybe, if you’re lucky, you could get Chris Brown and Drew Carter for Jackson and Larry Fitzgerald – that’d be a hell of steal because Larry and Jackson had less than a nickels worth of fantasy points while Brown and Carter combined for 175 rushing yards and two receiving touchdowns. Sell it all, swap-meet style, hurry, while the price of your two studs are as low as they’ll ever be. C’mon, buddy, pull yourself together. This is sports, shit happens. Sure, Fitzy, and Ste-Jack were on my All Tear Jerkers team, but that doesn’t mean you should trade them. Jackson’s value took another hit when we learned that Orlando Pace could be out for the year, but I still think he’ll have more fantasy points than Edge. Jackson is a stud, and while he did struggle in Week 1, I have a feeling he might just pull himself together. If you want to trade this guy, bite the Week 1 bullet train, and just wait to do it after he has a Steven Jackson type week. Remember, LT didn’t start off on fire either, and think of how many fantasy football teams were destroyed when owners like yourself went off the deep end and traded the best fantasy player ever. Don’t be that guy.

Papa, I just got a trade offer asking for Edgerrin James and Ronald Curry while giving me Torry Holt, Thomas Jones, and Deuce McAllister – this trade is way in my favor, isn’t it? A little note, I need running back depth. Dirt Rhodes in Idaho

Dirt Rhodes, that’s rich. In Idaho nonetheless, haha. Anyway, about your trade, yeah, take it, hurry, before the guy offering you this deal reads my article. Honestly, I think both James and Curry will have nice seasons, as I’ve said more than once, Curry is going to be a stud if he stays healthy. Holt is getting old, but the guy remains wide open. The Rams offense will be better, and even if his numbers are down this year, he will at least match those of Ronald Curry. Plus, his historical upside, and the fact that he has one of the top 5 best set of hands in the league make him a great “buy low” pick up. With Orlando Pace out for the season, I think the Rams will have to throw just a little bit more. As for Jones and Deuce, I think Thomas will fight through some tough defense early to have a big year for the Jets. By seasons’ end, he’ll be in a dead heat with Edge, or possibly even ahead of him. His calf injury worries me just a little less than fruit flies in my kitchen. Deuce continues to be the best YPC back in New Orleans, and I imagine he’ll give you the running back depth you need. I don’t know if he’ll ever get enough carries to explode for 150+ yards, but he’ll get you to the century mark a couple times, and I imagine he’ll put 8-10 balls in the endzone by the end of the year. It’s nice that people who picked Saints early are itching to dump them after one bad game. You’ve got to love it!

I have a dilemma I didn’t think I’d ever have this season, I don’t know if I should start Reggie Bush against the Buccaneers or Adrian Peterson against the Detroit Lions. I’m actually leaning toward the rookie beast – what’s your opinion? – Justin Sobchuck in Bellingham

You’re right, Justin, and I also never imagined that Peterson would be a better option that Bush, especially early in the year, and even more so when Bush has a pretty nice match-up. Reggie plays the Bucs, who, like I said, don’t have the speed to keep up with one of the most dynamic players in the NFL, however, AP plays the Lions, and the Vikings will almost surely ride their 1st round pick to the tune of 25 carries, especially if Chester Taylor’s health continues to flounder. To be quite honest, I’m not sure AP is the better pick here, but he definitely seems like the safe pick. Bush has shown he can dominate the fantasy category in select games, but AP’s style looks to be more consistent, plus he’ll almost certainly get the goal-line looks against a Lion team that gave up loads of yards to LaMont Jordan, receiving and rushing. Sobby, go with your young horse, and see if you can’t let him lead you to fantasy glory.

I drafted Saints at every turn, and now my team is last in the league in points, and if they struggle again this week, I’m definitely screwed. Do you think I could still get good value for Bush, Brees, and Colston? Or should I wait to trade them? Please leave name blank, in LA.

Do you work for Sunset Tan? My daughter was watching that show the other day, and I just about killed the cat when I through the TV into the ground. If you want to be considered one of the most overactive idiots in all of fantasy sports (and that would be quite the feat, considering the group of buddies I play this game with) they you will try to trade your Saints as fast as you can. Listen, “nameless,” good move not leaving your name, because anyone with half a brain would have poked fun at you like the bullies did in middle school. You don’t trade guys when their value is low, and I can tell you now, the Saints’ value will never be lower. Even in the gambling world, the Saints are only 3 point favorites against the freaking Bucs for God’s sake. If you can pull your head out for just one second, realize that the worst thing you could possibly do would be to trade any New Orleans players in the next few weeks. Wait for their value to come back up. I can’t imagine any of the Saints’ stars has a worse game all season long, than the one they had against the Colts. Come back to reality, hold yourself together, and don’t ever ask questions of this sort ever again.

My man, I’m still going with a new defense every week. It worked like a charm last week when you told me to roll with the Vikings, but they play the Lions this week, and even if Detroit plays bad, they have loads of offensive weapons. Who would you choose in Week 2 out of Cincinnati, Jacksonville, Green Bay, Seattle, or the Colts?- David Balog in Burlington, WA.

Dave, good to hear from you again. Yes, the defense by match-up approach is one of the more underrated fantasy options out there. Some times it will come back to haunt you, but the fact that you don’t need to drop anyone important on bye weeks, and you didn’t have to waste one of your first 10 draft picks on a solid defense should make your team better in the long run. I like the Bengals this week, if only because they look like the turnover causing unit they were two seasons ago, and the fact that they go head to head with Derek Anderson, Brady Quinn, and the Cleveland Browns. Jacksonville has the same kind of defense that Minnesota does, so they might be a nice option against the Falcons, but I hear Bobby Patrino wants to give the ball to Jerious Norwood more, which means the Falcons will be more explosive. Green Bay plays a pretty dynamic offense in New York, even with Brandon Jacobs out, this group could put up 3-4 touchdowns. However, if it comes out that Manning is going to be a no-show, the Packers become a Jarred Lorenzen sacking, intercepting, and fumble causing destroyer. Seattle plays the Cardinals, who should be better offensively than they were last week, but they still have a very inexperienced Matt Leinart at the helm, so they could be nice as well. The Colts played a little better than I think they are, in Week 1, and I never really know about throwing defenses against Vince Young. The Titans running game has seemed to hurt the Colts in the past, so I’d probably stay away from Indy this week. I think your best option in Cinci, their match-up is too easy. Next is Jacksonville, and after that the Hawks. Green Bay could be great if Manning sits out. Good luck, and keep the defensive rotation fresh.

Last Weeks Questions

Papa Weimer – **52 y/o – two open Heart surgeries and a nasty attitude**

2007 Fantasy Football Review – Week 1

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For all your fantasy questions, feel free to Ask Papa Weimer @ papaweimer@hotmail.com. As for questions directed at me, good Ol’ Lucky Lester, throw your questions to lester@luckylester.com. Let the Fantasy season begin the point tallies – and feel free to knock me on my picks! How’d I do? Check it out.This Week’s Top Team: ? No! But these donkey’s put 104 up…

QB: Drew Brees vs. Colts: 2 points… 2 freaking points, talk about a kick in the butt… I had to decide between this guy and Peyton, and I took the guy rated lower to make my self look cool. Real good that did. Freaking Brees, guy couldn’t miss in the pre-season, then comes out and gets nothing done against the Colts vaunted defense. Bad start for Ol’ Lucky.

RB: Frank Gore vs. Cardinals: 13 fantasy points for Frank. I expected more from the man in San Francisco, but the Cardinals were making Alex Smith beat them. Gore still compiled 55 rushing yards and a touchdown while grabbing a pass for 21 yards. He dropped a couple, too, but no negative points for that.

RB: LaDainian Tomlinson vs. Chicago: LT showed why he’s LT and everyone else isn’t. LT started off the game with 9 carries for -1 yard, and it looked bad in San Diego. Then this super hero threw a dime to Antonio Gates for a touchdown. Then he broke 3 tackles on his way to a rushing score. LT had 17 fantasy points in my league, good for 4th place tie this weekend.

WR: Steve Smith vs. St. Louis: Steve didn’t have a Plaxico 34 point day or a pair of touchdowns like Reggie Wayne or Terrell Owens, but he did collect 118 yards and a long score on way to 19 fantasy points. That was good for 6th in the league, tied with Ronald Curry.

WR: Chad Johnson vs. Ravens: 95 yards, a touchdown, and an over-hyped touchdown celebration for my favorite player in the league. What can you say about this guy, he’s a gamer. Chad talks a lot, but its always for humorous intentions, everyone loves this guy. A smooth 15 fantasy points. Not awesome, but solid. I think Chad will do this all year.

TE: Todd Heap vs. Bengals: Mr. Heap had a touchdown catch that was called back because of an absolutely terrible offensive pass interference call in the end-zone at the end of the game. He then had a chance to make up for it by snagging Kyle Boller’s bullet pass, but it bounced off his chest, got picked, and the game was over. Sweet redemption, eh Todd? 2 fantasy points. 4 catches for 29 yards.

K: Jeff Wilkins vs. Carolina: Jeff only put up 8 fantasy points, which meant there were 10 guys who did better than he did from the kicker position. What can you say, Steven Jackson fumbled twice, and the Rams just didn’t get down the field.

D: Steelers vs. Browns: In my league the Steelers finished 3rd overall on defense, just 4 points behind the 1st place Vikings. Pittsburgh looked good while making the Browns look even worse than I imagined, and they totaled 28 fantasy points. Yes, my defense led my squad in Week 1.

LUCKY’S Week 1 SLEEPERS

Ben Roethlisberger: I believe Big Ben busted out the Browns to the tune of 4 touchdown passes. He didn’t break out the yardage totals like I imagined, but in all reality, he had a perfect day, and I must give myself a fat A+ for this pick.

Jason Campbell: Campbell didn’t get the start in many leagues, and deservedly so. He didn’t do dick, but he handed the ball off a lot. Campbell will be good, mark my words, but yesterday, he was a bench player at best, grabbing 8 points. I’ll take a D.

Julius Jones: Jones didn’t get the goalline looks, but he did tally 78 total yards for 7 fantasy points. Not a huge day, not really worth starting, except he ranked tied for 19th in the league with Ronnie Brown, DeShaun Foster, Brandon Jackson, and Laurence Maroney, at least 2 of which were 1st or 2nd round picks. So, Jones did okay. C.

Ahman Green: Ahman Green wasn’t a great starting option, but as a sleeper, he didn’t do to shabby, collecting 9 fantasy points and finishing in the Top 15 for running backs. Two more points than JJ, I’ll take a B.

Santonio Holmes: Holmes showed why I like his so much with that long touchdown he had in Week 1. Holmes will be a starter this year, and in my league, finished with 14 fantasy points, tied for 11th with Marvin Harrison. I’d say that’s at least worth a B+.

Ronald Curry: I love Curry’s chances to finish in the Top 15 for fantasy receivers, and as I’ve been saying for months, this guy is a steel wherever you get him. In some leagues, you can still pick Ronald up. He’s a stud. If he stays healthy, he’s a champ. He finished yesterday tied for 6th in the league, going for 133 yards and a touchdown for 19 fantasy points. A+!

Daniel Graham: Graham didn’t get as many looks as I thought he would, but I have a feeling, after Jay Cutler goes into the film room, he’ll see Graham in a whole different light. Next week, DG will get his. However, this week, he just made me look bad. He wasn’t shut out, and 2 points from a TE isn’t the end of the world, but I’ll take a D-.

Falcons DST: The Falcons couldn’t stop Adrian Peterson, and from the looks of it, I don’t know who will be able to. The young Sooner is a beast. I was wrong. Blast! F.

LUCKY’S Week 1 Randy Moss’s

(This section will be renamed this week, as Randy Moss decided to come back and ball… Any suggestions will be appreciated.)

Mike Vick: On his way to jail. Still being talked about. Yeah, he had a bad Week 1.

Trent Green: Okay, Trent wasn’t as bad as I thought he’d be. But the fact that he finished 13the overall means he probably shouldn’t have been a starter in Week 1. However, the fact that he outproduced Donovan McNabb, Marc Bulger, Vince Young, Brett Favre, Drew Brees, Phillip Rivers, JP Losman, Jason Campbell and more means he shouldn’t have been on this list. So I was only 1.5/5, not counting Mike Vick. He’s an idiot.

Cedric Benson: 19 carries for 42 yards… I’ll take a big A+ for this call. Many started Benson in Week 1, and surely, that was a mistake. Cedric had 50 total yards and a fumble. He was good for 3 points in Week 1. The same as Reggie Bush, Maurice Jones Drew, and Deuce McAllister. So I guess you could have had one of those guys who all got picked ahead of Benson, but either way, you probably didn’t win in Week 1.

Warrick Dunn: Dunn was tied for 19th overall, so while he wasn’t a great starting option, he definitely didn’t belong in the section formerly known as the Randy Moss’s… Dunn was by no means effective, though, rushing for 55 yards on 22 carries… Yuck. His 4 catches only netted him 26 yards, but overall he was average for fantasy production.

Calvin Johnson: Calvin did well. 51 yards and a touchdown are two solid stat-lines for this youngster. So hell, I was wrong, what can I do?

Laveranues Coles: The only Jet that did anything. Coles caught 7 balls for 59 yards and two touchdowns. Ah, I was wrong. Coles was a baller, and my fantasy team paid the price. Looks like I should have taken Coles over Reggie Brown in Week 1.

2007 Fantasy Football theRUNDOWN Week 2

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This Week’s Top Team: 150+ points???

QB: Peyton Manning vs. Tennessee: I may be taking the safe bet here, but I also think Manning’s match-up with the Titans looks like the best bet. If Tennessee puts as much effort into stopping the Colts’ ground attack as they did in Week 1 against Jacksonville, then Manning will have no choice but to find open receivers all day long.

RB: Travis Henry vs. Oakland: The Raider’s get a lot of credit for having a very good defense, “The best pass defense in the league,” but the only way a team can get that ranking is by being one of the lesser run defenses. That way, teams will just run because it’s a better option than passing. Travis Henry showed that he’s going to be a beast this year, by running all over the Dolphins in Week 1. He’ll have his way with the Raiders as well.

RB: Frank Gore vs. St. Louis: Gore had a poor start to the season, but the running back always seems to struggle against the Cardinals. This week, he goes against a team he maimed last year, and a defense that gave up 150+ rushing yards to the Panthers last week. The Rams won’t be able to contain this 49er, as he’ll go over the century mark by the end of the 3rd quarter.

WR: Reggie Wayne vs. Tennessee: Reggie was one of the top receivers in Week 1, and I imagine he’ll be right up there in Week 2. Like I said in my Manning write-up, the Titans will have to spend too much defensive power to stop the Colts run, leaving Wayne and Harrison too much room to do their damage.

WR: Terrell Owens vs. Miami: I don’t think Miami’s secondary can slow down the Cowboy’s passing attack. They have some nice pass rushers, but their secondary is young and not all that reliable. TO will get over the 100 yard mark with at least a touchdown to his name.

TE: Kellen Winslow vs. Bengals: Todd Heap didn’t have a great day last week against Cincinnati, but he was open, and he did have a touchdown called back. I think the Browns will be way down in this one, while the young Brown quarterbacks will have to find someone to throw the ball to. Winslow is a sure handed playmaker at TE, and TEs are a young quarterback’s best friend.

K: Olindo Mare vs. Tampa Bay: Mare missed a 50+ yarder, and overall the Saints sucked it up in Week 1 against the Colts. That won’t happen for long, and you can bet Mare will benefit from an offense that is primed for a big day against the Bucs.

D: Bears vs. Chiefs: The Bears are pretty damn good, and the Chiefs have one of the worst offenses in the last couple years. Larry Johnson will get more carries in this game, but who is blocking for him? Who will keep Bear pass rushers off of Damon Huard? If you answered “No body!” they you win a huge point total from the Bears in Week 2. Congratulations!

LUCKY’S Week 2 SLEEPERS

Tarvaris Jackson: Nobody will start Jackson, but against a Detroit secondary that has nobody to stop even the most anemic of wide receiving corps, I think Jackson will have a couple touchdown passes. That will rank him in the Top 15 of Week 2 quarterbacks, and probably make him start-worth for some unlucky fantasy team out there.

Jeff Garcia: The most beautiful man in football should get plenty of opportunities to throw the rock against the Saints this weekend. I’m sure that the Saints will put up some nice point total, in the 30s, so Garcia will have to find Joey Galloway for over a 100 yards if the Bucs are to keep pace. Garcia will have a nice day, especially for a guy starting in 3% of fantasy leagues.

Jerious Norwood: Can a 2nd running back on a bad offense be a sleeper? He will if the Falcons want to stand a chance against the Jaguars. See, Dunn carried the ball for 55 yards on 22 carries last week, while Norwood averaged just under 5 yards a tote. Jerious is a gamebreaker, someone the Falcons will have to take full advantage of if Bobby Patrino wants to win any games this season. Even against a tough defense, Norwood is a nice sleeper candidate if you are in a bind.

Maurice Jones Drew: MJD was one of the many disappointing fantasy players in Week 1. He was picked in the first couple rounds of every draft, and he didn’t impress in Week 1. Like Norwood, Drew was limited in carries, but still managed just under 5 yards a carry while the #1 back carried for just over 2 yards per touch. The Falcons showed they couldn’t stop the run last week against Minnesota, so I like Drew this week.

Santonio Holmes: Can I ride Holmes as a sleeper for the 2nd straight week? I will, but if he does what I expect him to do, he loses all sleeper candidacy for the rest of the season. Look for him to blow up the Buffalo Bills secondary.

Vincent Jackson: I had two great sleeper wide receivers in week 1 that both scored double digits, and this week I’m going to try to pull another rabbit out of the hat. Everyone picked Vince to do solid things this year, but after 1 slow week, he’s being dropped – easy guys. Vincent will grab a touchdown against the Patriots, and have over 60 yards. Too much attention to LT will give this big athletic speedster a few nice chances.

Marcades Lewis: Lewis will be the guy exploiting the Falcons middle of the field. Remember, a sleeper at TE means he’s hoping for about 6-8 points. Haha; freaking tight ends.

Cowboys DST: One bad week, and there go the drops, the Cowboys being one of the fired units. Jump on them this week, Trent Green will be a sitting, interception throwing, fumbling, duck, and the Boys will take full advantage.

LUCKY’S Week 2 Saints

(The Saints were suggested by Tim Jennings in New Orleans – have a better name for my bad plays of the week? Email ’em to me!)

Mike Vick: Still going to jail, still watching his teammates struggle, and still thinking about how you can have everything and throw in right down the shitter.

Matt Leinart: Start him and pay the price. This guy wouldn’t take a chance to save his life during Monday Night’s loss to the 49ers. This week, he has to deal with Partick Kerney and Julian Peterson, and a ball hawking Seahawks secondary that played very well last week against Tampa Bay. A couple picks will hold Matt down.

Larry Johnson: How would you like to run smack into the teeth of a group of Bears without any special armor of offensive lineman blocking for you? Ask Larry Johnson? He’ll tell you, this is why he held out for more money.

Thomas Jones: The tough part is, I’d like to have both LJ and TJ on my fantasy roster. Hell, in one league I do. However, like LJ, TJ has a tough match-up against the Ravens this week. Baltimore has to be pissed that their offense couldn’t do dick besides put them in brutal situations all night long, and they are going to take it out on TJ. Especially with a rookie quarterback in there for New York.

Ronald Curry: He’ll do better than Lee Evans did last week, but for all those donkeys that went out and grabbed Curry or are starting him this week because of last week’s performance – don’t expect half of what he did against the Lions – he’ll be shut down by Champ and Drew Bly all day long.

Tony Gonzalez: Did you see the Chiefs offense last week? This week they play Chicago, not Houston. Good luck Tony!