Monthly Archives: October 2007

Ask Papa Weimer Fantasy Football Know-It-All Oct 13

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Week 6 is right around the corner, and these are some of the questions that weighed me down this weekend. I have to be honest, I like the morale coming from my readers, especially the ones that are bruised and battered and under .500 going into Week 6 of Fantasy Football action. It’s not over fellas, keep the hope going.

Drop me your Fantasy Questions @ papaweimer50@hotmail.com

Papa Weimer-
I’m 2-3 going into week 6, and to be honest, I think this is the time to trade some of my injuries to get a win. I have Andre Johnson and Steven Jackson, and I’ve been offered Larry Johnson and Kevin Curtis – what’s your take? – Joey Bezona in Oklahoma

Don’t do it! Hurry, reject that trade. You’ve waited it out this long, I say you just stick with your guns. AJ is back after this week, and so is Steven Jackson – and both should give you a good enough push to make a run at the playoffs. Kevin may have a big game or two, maybe even this weekend against the Jets, but he’s about as consistently inconsistent as you could get. He has all his points from one game against the Lions. Larry Johnson is a beast, but his offensive line makes me wonder if he’ll every see open spaces this season. The Rams O-Line looks like they are coming together a little more lately, though they have a tough game this weekend against Baltimore. Steven Jackson is a very good back despite his early season struggles and an injury – I’d say his and LJ’s chances of success the rest of the season are a push at worst. As for AJ, he’ll be back soon, and he’s a Top 10 starter at receiver. Don’t do it, man. That’s my take.

I need a big defensive play this weekend from the free agent wire. I have Dallas, but I’m sending them on their way because there is no way in hell I am starting them against Tom Brady and the Patriots. Some free agents that get me excited are the Cardinals, Jaguars, and Seahawks – what are you thinking? Any D-sleepers for this week. Boris “Premium” Ollie in Anaheim.

It looks like you have a good threesome to choose from. But right now, I like the Cardinals to do up the Panthers something fierce. I like the idea of the Hawks busting up Reggie Bush and intercepting Drew Brees, but one has to think that the Saints snap out of their slumber and actually put up points one of these weeks. I’m not so sure it will be this week, as the Hawks are a formidable defensive foe, but you never know, and craziness could ensue. The Jags are a nice option against a Houston rushing attack that has been suspect at best. Ahman Green is back, but how long will he last in the grasps of that beastie group of defensive linemen? I think the safe bet is the Cardinals because they are choosing between Vinny Testeverde and Matt Moore at quarterback. I think Vinny could be Matt’s dad, no joke. The Cardinals are a physical group and they have a few playmakers on that squad. Plus a big return or two from Steve Breaston is a possibility because the Panthers’ special teams is lacking to say the least. Go with the Cardinals! As for a big defensive sleeper, I’ll throw out the Bucs against Tennessee. I think Tampa will come to play in this one, give Vince Young some trouble, and cause more than a couple of turnovers against the Titans. But that’s a sleeper pick, because Tampa is at the bottom of the Fantasy defense rankings.

I’m hurting for a running back just for this week. I normally have Addai and Fast Willie Parker, but obviously the bye week is breaking my balls. Brian Leonard is still available, but do you have a sleeper out there that could outscore him? I’m not sure I’m that excited about him going heads up against a Ravens’ defense that is being called “overrated”. – Jessy Thomas in Indy

Jessy, I have the guy just for you. As of Thursday evening, Jamal Lewis was still wearing a Christmas stocking on his injured foot. That means that the Browns backup will be going at the Miami Dolphins defense. I’m guessing that Jason Wright will go over the century mark against that terrible Dolphins defense. This 210 pound back is stocky, fast, can catch the ball, and he runs with a purpose. He’s probably the one running back who has played well against the Patriots this season. He rushed for 60 yards and caught 4 passes for 43 yards last week after Jamal went down. Honestly, I love any running back against Miami, and I like the Browns offensive line a lot. I think Wright will get more points than Brian Leonard, and I can’t agree more with that bad match-up against a Ravens team that is feeling slighted.

Ronnie Brown is my hero. He’s had 3 straight 100 yard games since Cam Cameron gave his own head a good shake and realized that Ronnie was the only thing going for the Fins. Ronnie turns 26 this December, so his age gives him 4 more solid years, and he’s a good pass catcher so he doesn’t get overused in the rushing game. Everyone in my league loves this guy, is there a player you’d take in trade for Brown? – Brad Bannister at FSU

A former Seminole such as my self loves to help out a fellow FSU alum. You have to love what Ronnie’s doing now that Cameron isn’t playing any stupid games with the young buck. And honestly, I think Lemon or Beck (whomever ends up starting for Trent Green) will open up the field even more for the former Auburn standout. However, there are a couple guys that match-up with Brown. I think Jackson is 3 years younger than Ronnie, and I have to believe this seasons’ struggles are an aberration for the St. Louis Ram. It may hurt you this year, but you might be able to get Jackson and a nice receiver for Brown, because Ronnie is #1 in the league right now. I also like Joseph Addai a lot, he’s a couple years younger (1.5) than Ronnie, and I think he’s in a better situation. He’s averaging just over 100 yards per game this season, has 5 rushing touchdowns already, and gets about 3 catches per game. He’s very versatile, just like Ronnie, but I like his situation in Indy a lot more. However, don’t be in a hurry to trade Ronnie. He’s got a great body for the NFL, he’s fast as all hell, and he’s going to be “The Man” in Miami for quite some time. Cam Cameron, as big of a game playing idiot as he’s been, is a great coach to take a running back to the next level. He knows how to get them involved.

Last Weeks Questions

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

2007 Fantasy Football Review – Week 5

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This Week’s Top Team: Oh, I don’t know, not a big showing, but not too shabby either. This is how I got what I got. 92+QB: Tom Brady vs. Cleveland: Tomothy had 265 yards and 3 touchdowns for a whopping 22 points in my fantasy league. Yeah, needless to say, this guy is consistent.

RB: LaDainian Tomlinson vs. Denver: LT had 140 yards rushing and receiving combined, but that doesn’t do much without a touchdown. His yards per carry were questionable again, especially against a suspect Broncos rush defense (21 totes for 67 yards) but he definitely made his impact on the game. I got 13 points here.

RB: Marion Barber vs. Buffalo: MBIII put up a whopping 6 points against the Bills. He has his quarterback to thank for that one. He did only get 28 yards on 8 carries, which isn’t even close to average for him, but all those interceptions Tony threw ripped the Cowboys’ rushing attack, and I was hurt because of it.

WR: Randy Moss vs. Cleveland: Randy wasn’t used as much in Week 5. I guess his low day was coming, and in light of that, Ben Watson and Donte Stallworth both had big days for the Patriots. Randy had 3 catches for 46 yards, which means 4 points for me here.

WR: Plaxico Burress vs. NY Jets: 20 points for my main New York Giant. Plax found time to catch 5 balls, and break an easy sideline tackle on way to a 53 yard touchdown reception. He had 124 yards. Not a bad day for the former Steeler. He’s having one hell of a fantasy season.

TE: Jason Witten vs. Buffalo: 9 catches, 103 yards and a touchdown. Witten has become a beast. He was wide open in the end zone, but he still made a great catch that maybe 5 tight ends in the league make. No, Jeremy Shockey isn’t one of them, he drops it I’m sure. Anyway, 16 big ones from the TE spot – I’m a genius.

K: Nate Kaeding vs. Denver: Nate had 5 extra points and 2 field goals, one was 46 yards and worth a bonus point in my league, so Nate busted out 12 fantasy points. That’s now Kris Brown action (3 50+ yarders) but it is a nice day for a kicker.

D: Patriots vs. Cleveland: Lets see. They gave up more points than I imagined, but they did work. 3 interceptions, 3 sacks, and a late defensive fumble recovery for a touchdown. The Patriots put up 21 fantasy points in my league. All these points total up fairly nice.

LUCKY’S Week 5 SLEEPERS

Jason Campbell: Campbell put up a nice day against the Lions, 248 yards and 2 touchdowns without an interception. The Lions didn’t put up much of a fight, so there was no need for Campbell to really go off, but I’ll take an A for a very nice starting option on Sunday.

Panthers Starting QB: David Carr only had 6 points, and I know personally that my advice cost my cousin his fantasy game this weekend – if only he had started Jeff Garcia. How many times do you think people can say that? Anyway, because of my loss causing prediction, I’ll just take an F and run with it.

Julius Jones: Jones was hurt because of bad quarterback play, and coming from behind all game long. In the end, his 4 fantasy points give me a fat F. Dang.

Brandon Jacobs: 100 yards and a touchdown for a guy starting for the first time in 4 weeks. Yeah, I’ll take an A for this one as well. What can I say, sometimes I can pick em.

LenDale White: And sometimes I can’t. LenDale looks a lot chubbier when he’s only rushing for 36 yards and a fumble, doesn’t he? His 1 point performance hurt me, and I took yet another F – that makes two for Sunday.

Lee Evans: 1 catch 12 yards – bust anyone? I wasn’t willing to admit it earlier in the year, but Lee has played like a pile-o-poop. Hurry, if you can, I’d trade for him: I imagine that in the next 10 weeks he’ll be one of the Top 10 receivers in the league. Just a hunch.

Larry Fitzgerald: Larry balled on Sunday. He put the game out of reach with his easy touchdown grab, and that just seemed to make fantasy owners everywhere gasp for Fitzy’s first score of 2007 – hopefully for many, this opens the flood gates. 136 yards to go with that TD – I’ll take an A.

Chris Cooley: Cools had a touchdown and a 2 pt reception and put up 10 fantasy points for the Redskins. Believe that. 10 pts for a Tight End – I’ll take my A.

Cardinals DST: The Cardinals didn’t stop St. Louis like I thought they would, that’s for sure. But they did get 3 interceptions from Gussy Frerotte, sacked him twice, and brought a pick back for a touchdown. In my league, that gave them 14 points, and I’ll take a B-.

LUCKY’S Week 5 Splinter-Butts (bench him, son)

Phillip Rivers: Rivers basically had his best game of the year – and that was a good day. He threw for 2, ran for 1, and passed for about 275 yards. Yeah, I failed on this one. But look at my benched running backs.

Shaun Alexander: “The Steelers will shut Shaun down. Alexander has been busy running like a pussy since he got his big deal a season and a half ago. I counted, and in 25 carries last week, he lowered his shoulder once. I think it was an accident.” Ha. This week Shaun carried the rock for 25 yards on 11 carries. He was so scared he would just drop as soon as he got the ball. Can you say cap-casualty next season? Believe that.

Jamal Lewis: The Browns’ starting runner lasted a couple plays, he got hurt and didn’t return. I don’t know if he would have had better stats, or changed the outcome, but I was right about this one.

Tory Holt: Tory Holt did what Tory Holt does; he got open, caught a few balls for nearly 90 yards and scored a touchdown. I missed on this one. 3 out of 5 – not too shabby.

Todd Heap: Heap was injured, but if you sat him based on my advice, you won either way. Freaking Heap, I think he needs to go play in the NBA or something, because here in the NFL, people play with thigh bruises. Lineman give each other thigh bruises before games just to keep each other honest.

Fantasy Football Tear Jerkers – Week 6

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Fantasy Football Know-It-All

Amongst many NFL players, these were the guys ripping tears from my eyes like they were playing some sadistic roll in the next Saw movie. Pull! Nice.

Kurt Warner: Injuries never make it on the Tearjerkers list, but I started Kurt in more than a couple leagues expecting huge things from the former All-Pro. Well, he was 2-2 for 21 yards before he fumbled and reached in for the ball like he was going to pry it away from a defensive tackle. With all the times Kurt has fumbled, you’d think he’d know that he never wins that battle. Either way, Kurt busted my fantasy hopes, the drained the chance of me covering my bet (Zona -3.5) because Tim Rattay wasn’t going to come in and win any battles. Overall, Kurt was stealing tears this week. Hope you get better, old man.

Rudi Johnson: Rudi’s 4 carries for 8 yards wasn’t what his fantasy owners were hoping for with his return on Sunday. Talk about a kick to the groin. Rudi didn’t do jack, the Bengals lost to the Chiefs, and Chad Johnson looks like he’s about to blow a fuse any time now. All in all, Rudi’s value took a big hit in this one, and one can only hope that he returns to the back he once was, or starts getting regular reps at the position.

Brett Favre: Okay, Brett looked old this week against the Redskins, but Washington has been money on defense all year long, so this might have been coming. Either way, those who started Brett thinking they were getting a renewed gun-slinger that had tossed for 300 yards in 3 straight games ended up getting 188 yards and two interceptions with nary a touchdown. That’s a tearjerker if I’ve every seen one.

Phillip Rivers: Rivers continues his up and down life, playing well and being a fantasy factor when I don’t start him, and delivering painful kicks to the caucux when I do start him. Well, I started him last week against the Raiders, thinking he’d have to throw because the Raiders would put 9 in the box, but I was wrong. LT went bananas with 198 yards and 4 touchdowns, while Phil mostly just handed the ball off and watched in tearjerking admiration.

Shaunna Alexander: My favorite quote of the week from ESPN’s finest. “Shaun doesn’t run tough. He runs soft and falls down to easily. He doesn’t look like he’s giving much effort. He’s not going to like that I said that, but that’s what I see. He’s making me see that. It’s not like I’m making it up or saying it just to get to him. He’s running the way he is, and I’m just seeing it.” (or something close to that – said by Mike Ditka) Overall, I’ve been saying this for the last 2 seasons. As a Hawks fan, I’d have to say, Shaunna is one of the toughest running backs in the league… To root for. He runs like a damn roll of toilet paper, and I’m sick of it. Thanks for 3 points, 35 rushing yards, against the Saints’ terrible defense, by the way, nice work!

Tory Holt and Donald Driver: Neither had a good match-up, but Holt and Driver both scored 3 measily fantasy points. These guys are both #1 receivers. The other thing is, neither team had much of a rushing attack on Sunday, either. Starting these two All-Pro receivers just killed my fantasy team this week.

(Also considered; – Chad Pennington and Warrick Dunn, but then I realized that neither is worth having on my fantasy team, anyway – also, Bryant Johnson (but he had Tim Rattay throwing the ball over his head, so can’t really blame him – also any Falcons receiver (they all dropped passes, from Crump to Joe Horn, Mike Jenkins, Laurent Robinson, and Roddy White – nice work fellas, way to make Joey look worse than he is – and last but not least, the Dolphins defense – what a bad, bad unit.)

Free College Football Picks Week 7 – 2007

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Week 6 was a tough go for Old Lucky Lester in the free picks section – and I wish I could have put up a mirror of my elite picks that were 4-1. This week I put about another hour into my Free Picks section, because I need to start winning these little buggers. Keep the buggering to yourselves, but check out my free picks this week, a couple big winners waiting in the weeds.

LUCKY LESTER’S Free NCAA Football Picks

Hawaii Rainbow Warriors (-18) @ San Jose State: (Friday Night Game)
(Line: Thursday, 5:00am EST: Bodog)

The San Jose State Spartans seem to give up a lot of points to decent offenses. They gave up 45 to Arizona State, 34 to Kansas State, and 37 to Stanford (just threw that last one in there, its not like the Cardinal have a solid offense). Anyway, Hawaii has one of the best offenses in the Nation, one of the best young quarterbacks, and a scheme that absolutely annihilates lesser college competition. The Spartans are the definition of lesser college competition. Even if Colt Brennan doesn’t play the whole game, I still like the Rainbows to win by at least 3 touchdowns in this one.

Oregon State Beavers @ California Bears (-14):
(Line: Thursday, 5:00am EST: Belmont)

I know this is a conference game, and you’d think I would have learned my lesson betting against a big spread and the Stanford Cardinals last week, but that just isn’t’ the case. I’m sticking to my guns here, as the Bears are just way too good for the Beavers. Oregon State hasn’t gotten over their loss of Matt Moore, and to be honest, they just aren’t nearly as good as I thought they were to start the season. Look for the Bears’ playmakers to turn this game upside down.

Auburn Tigers @ Arkansas Razorbacks (-3):
(Line: Thursday, 5:00am EST: Belmont)

I just don’t see how Auburn is going to win this one. They are coming off of 3 straight wins, one of which was against Florida. Right now they must be thinking how good they are, not realizing their struggles to start the season. Unfortunately for the Tigers, the Razorbacks need wins and they need them now. After back to back losses to Alabama and Kentucky, Arkansas needs every win they can get to climb back toward the top of the SEC. They are at home, and they just need this game more. Auburn is more like the team that lose to Mississippi State then they are the team that beat Florida. Expect a down game from the Tigers in this one. They’ve really played decent football all season, but all the more reason to tumble in this one.

San Diego State Aztecs @ Utah Utes (-14):
(Line: Thursday, 5:00am EST: Belmont)

San Diego state has been brutal this season, aside from one close game against the Colorado State Rams. Oh, and they took it to Portland State. Utah has a quality team, despite a 27-0 loss to UNLV a few weeks ago. Wins at Louisville (44-35) and at UCLA (44-6) both show how solid the Utes can be. I’d imagine this game isn’t even close, with the Utes coming out on top by 3 or 4 touchdowns. The styles of play just make for a dominant performance out of Utah.

Washington State Cougars (+19) @ Oregon Ducks:
(Line: Thursday, 5:00am EST: Bodog)

Everything points to the Ducks in this game, except when you look at the small print. This game is ALWAYS close. Only once in the last 7 years has this game been decided by more than 11 points, and that was a game at Oregon that Washington State dominated 55-16. I like Oregon to win this one, but Washington State has a couple good games in them. They fight until the end, and in this conference, I like those 18.5 points.

Let the free picks make you oodles of money!

Week 5 NFL Picks Review: 2007

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WOW! I had it bad on Sunday. Sure, I finished with a 4-3 record in my Free Picks – but oh how it could have been so much better. I know I lost the Lions/Skins game, but what can I say? I definitely warned you to stay away from that one. After that, the Ravens and Packers both absolutely screwed me by playing not-to-lose; also known as, screw the handicapper. All in all, after a couple bad-beats, I busted a 4-3 winner out, and I guess I’ll have to take it. This is how it went down.

Cleveland Browns @ New England Patriots (-16): win
(Line: Tuesday, 2:00pm EST: Bookmaker)

Talk about heart-attack central. The Patriots didn’t care much about covering, and their pathetic excuse for a 3rd quarter showed it. However, with just seconds left in the game, up 10, the Patriots stripped Kellen Winslow and took the rock 20 yards to the house for a 17 point victory… I was jumping out of my seat – but wait, what’s this? I only switched the game to the Jets and Giants for a second, and now I’m back, and the Brownies have one more shot at the end zone? A pass to Kellen Winslow for a touchdown! My good God… Wait, ah, yes, his foot was on the line. Game over. I cover. Big spreads suck.

Detroit Lions (+3.5) @ Washington Redskins: loss
(Line: Monday, 1:00pm EST: Bookmaker)

“Tough game to call, both the Redskins and Lions have played above what I expected this year. Detroit’s defense played better last week, but they were going up against a pathetic Bears offense, so I don’t know how much can be said about that.” That’s what I said, and I’m sticking to my good advice in this one. I’ll take the loss, but I have to stick by my warning label, I had no idea what to expect from either team.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ Indianapolis Colts (-10) win
(Line: Monday, 1:00pm EST: Bookmaker)

“The way I see it, Indy has a tough time against lesser opponents, and the Bucs seem to be one of the better teams in the NFC this season. With that in mind, and the fact that John Gruden came into Tampa taking Tony Dungy’s job, you’d have to think that the Colts players try to come out and embarrass the Bucs organization. I’m not sure Tampa, as well as they’ve played this year, is ready for that.” Ah, they weren’t ready for that. The Colts came out and put up points at will against the Bucs, even without Joseph Addai. In fact, Kenton Keith could have been the star of the game, rushing for 123 yards and two touchdowns. Anyway, Dungy looks like he didn’t get such a raw deal after all – where would you rather be coaching?

San Diego Chargers (+1.5) @ Denver Broncos: win
(Line: Monday, 1:00pm EST: Bookmaker)

Nice. I can finally shave my neck beard. I promised myself, after the Chargers were embarrassed by the Patriots, that I would grow a neck beard like LT until he won. Little did I know that would take so damn long. Actually, I kind of came accustomed to my NB, and am sad to see it go. However, with the lovely lady promising she’d hold me to my promise or turn to celibacy, see you later neck beard, go LT and the big bad Chargers.

Baltimore Ravens (-3) @ San Francisco 49ers: loss
(Line: Monday, 1:00pm EST: Bet-Jam)

I hate the Niners but not nearly as much as I hate those Ravens. Baltimore had all the opportunity in the world to put this game away, but they just can’t score. Offensively, I think they might be the worst team in football (maybe the Chiefs and Bills could argue that). I’m sick of them screwing me, and I don’t know which way to turnover. I hate when they beat me, but even more so when I lose betting on them. 9-7 was the score in this one. But really, the Ravens got a very friendly spot on their 3rd down plunge late in the 4th, or I’d probably be talking about how Matt Stover’s late field goal gave me the win here. Either way, I wish the Ravens just lost and at least made me happy on that front.

Chicago Bears @ Green Bay Packers (-3): loss
(Line: Monday, 1:00pm EST: Bookmaker)

Honestly, the Packers should have been up about 24-0 at half time. But they only managed a 17-7, and I knew that would come back to bite them in the butt. 5 turnovers by the Packers, including a terrible interception by Favre, and the Packers lost in a tight one. It wasn’t the turnovers or the missed opportunities in the 1st half. Honestly, it was the “playing not to lose” play calling in the 3rd and early 4th quarters that did me, and the Packers, right in. Brett missed 1 pass in the first half (2 of his 3 incompletions were spiking the ball at the end of the half); but that didn’t seem to bother the Packers’ offensive coordinator. No, he wanted to run the ball. So much so that Brett only threw the ball 5 times from the start of the 3rd to midway through the 4th… Nice work. Prevent offense – gotta love that.

Seattle Seahawks @ Pittsburgh Steelers (-5.5): win
(Line: Tuesday, 2:00pm EST: Bookmaker)

“Despite what I think about the Hawks, (they are very good), the fact is that they aren’t a very good road team, and seem to struggle against the AFC (like every NFC team). Also, this isn’t Trent Dilfer and the 49ers offense, this is the Steelers, a unit that is coming off a huge upset at the hands of their former coach. They are going to come out pissed and ready to go. Everything is working against the Hawks in this one, there’s no sense of urgency on their part, they’re away from Seattle, and that whole Super Bowl refereeing stick in the spokes is history. Look for Willie Parker to have a day.” Willie only had 102 yards, which isn’t bad against the Hawks defense, but everything else I said came true. Hawks didn’t do jack, didn’t seem to care, and the Steelers ran the show. 21-0 mad me look like a smart man, and gave me a much needed winning week after a couple tough beats throughout the day.

Week 6 College Football Picks Review: 2007

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Umm… Yeah, 0-5 in my free picks. If you happened to be the guys who purchased my Elite Picks, you went 4-1 on the week. But if you just took my free picks, and wagered on them, like I did, then you probably came out with some bruises and a hatred for this guys’ college picks. Ah, that guy is me. Here’s a review of the worst of weeks for my free picks.

LUCKY LESTER’S Free NCAA Football Picks

Georgia Bulldogs (+1) @ Tennessee Volunteers:
(Line: Tuesday, 2:00am EST: Bookmaker)

This was the worst week every, and it doesn’t help that I won 1 pick in my free section last week. In this game in particular, I looked like an absolute dumby. The Bulldogs were dominated in every phase of the game, and Eric Ainge looked like Peyton Manning picking apart the Bulldogs’ defense. I sucked this week.

Stanford Cardinal @ USC Trojans (-39.5):
(Line: Tuesday, 2:00am EST: Bet-Jam)

This was the worst week every, and it doesn’t help that I won 1 pick in my free section last week. Not only did USC fail to cover that huge spread, but the Trojans just flat out lost to the Cardinal. I didn’t think that USC had one of the best defenses in the country, like everyone else thought, and last weeks game at UW worried me a little bit. But I thought they’d come back strong and beat a terrible Stanford team whose coach, Jim Harabaugh, had been talking a little too much about USC all summer long. I was dead wrong – but at least #2 got upset, I always love that!

Virginia Cavaliers (-10.5) @ Middle Tennessee State:
(Line: Tuesday, 2:00am EST: Bookmaker)

This was the worst week every, and it doesn’t help that I won 1 pick in my free section last week. The Cavs thought this was a gimmie just like I did. I don’t really get it, as I’ve never gone into a game taking it easy on a team. However, it looked like Virginia came to play the Bad News Bears, or I guess football’s version, the Little Giants. Well, Mid-Tenn ran The Annexation of Puerto Rico on the Cavs, and almost came out with a win. The 23-21 score was too close for me to pull out of Tennessee with at least one victory. Dang!

Ohio State Buckeyes @ Purdue Boilermakers (+7):
(Line: Tuesday, 2:00am EST: Bookmaker)

This was the worst week every, and it doesn’t help that I won 1 pick in my free section last week. Purdue didn’t do anything against Ohio State, and the 23-7 score actually wasn’t that close. I expected a lot more out of a decent Purdue defense and a passing attack that had put up 16 touchdowns before the Ohio State game. I expected too much. Damn it all to hell.

Oklahoma State Cowboys @ Texas A&M Aggies (-6.5):
(Line: Tuesday, 2:00am EST: Bookmaker)

This was the worst week every, and it doesn’t help that I won 1 pick in my free section last week. My last hope was Texas A&M, and naturally, they let me down. A few weeks ago they led me off with a huge disappointment loss to the Miami “Lost to North Carolina this week and sucked in the process” Hurricanes. This week, they finished off my winless free picks, and now I hate them even more. Yeah, they won the game in the end, but they needed a late surge to do so. Down 17-0 at half (what I didn’t predict), A&M came back and put up a 24-6 2nd half (what I actually thought would happen in this one) for the one point win. Nice win! (Sarcasm)

Free NFL Football Picks 07-08 Week 5

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I struggled through my free picks last week, winning a whopping two, but I was over .500 on my Elite Picks, as a few of you very well know. I have my money on a winning bet in both my Free and Elite picks this week. Really, I have my money on them. Here’s how we’re getting rich… I have a feeling this is going to be a big week. The places and times I got the lines are listed below.

Cleveland Browns @ New England Patriots (-16):
(Line: Tuesday, 2:00pm EST: Bookmaker)

I have to take the Patriots here. I know the Browns have put up points, but week after week it seems like those they’ve put up points against don’t have defenses as strong as we all once figured. Well, the Patriots do have a defenses that good, and their offense might be even better. They definitely complement themselves. I hate huge spreads, but the Patriots deserve that big of a cushion. They are that good. I see a 42-14 game in New England, as a down week doesn’t seem like a reality with this team of professionals.

Detroit Lions (+3.5) @ Washington Redskins:
(Line: Monday, 1:00pm EST: Bookmaker)

Tough game to call, both the Redskins and Lions have played above what I expected this year. Detroit’s defense played better last week, but they were going up against a pathetic Bears offense, so I don’t know how much can be said about that. The Redskins are coming off a bye, which doesn’t seem to help as much when byes are earlier in the season, but that gives them a slight edge. I guess I like the Lions to ride out their hot-streak, here, because I’m still not convinced that the Washington Redskins are a force on either side of the ball. I do know that the Lions play against the run better than many give them credit for, and that will help against Portis and company. In this tough one, I’ll take the road team and the points.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ Indianapolis Colts (-10)
(Line: Monday, 1:00pm EST: Bookmaker)

I’m not sure what to expect out of the Bucs and Colts this week. Will we get a dominant performance out of the Colts? Or will they play like they did against the Texans and Titans? That’s a tough call, and one you have to think about when betting for or against the Colts. The way I see it, Indy has a tough time against lesser opponents, and the Bucs seem to be one of the better teams in the NFC this season. With that in mind, and the fact that John Gruden came into Tampa taking Tony Dungy’s job, you’d have to think that the Colts players try to come out and embarrass the Bucs organization. I’m not sure Tampa, as well as they’ve played this year, is ready for that.

San Diego Chargers (+1.5) @ Denver Broncos:
(Line: Monday, 1:00pm EST: Bookmaker)

This game is very tough for me, but I have to believe the San Diego Chargers figure it out sooner rather than later. The Broncos haven’t played that well, even when given week after week of big rushing performances by Travis Henry. San Diego might be able to stop a hobbled Chargers rushing game, and I know Denver can’t do the same to LT. That being said, I wouldn’t be surprised if this game came down to a field goal at the end. Elam’s been questionable on all his kicks from my point of view, so I’ll roll the dice on the kid in San Diego, and a big “must win” for the Chargers.

Baltimore Ravens (-3) @ San Francisco 49ers:
(Line: Monday, 1:00pm EST: Bet-Jam)

The Ravens have looked pretty bad on defense, and even worse at punching in touchdowns on offense. They take their best offensive player out on the goal line (McGahee) and their play calling has been predictable at best. Luckily, they go to San Francisco to play a reeling Niners team that has lost 2 straight. San Francisco will have Trent Dilfer on offense, and you can bet the Ravens’ staff will have the book on him. I like Baltimore to realize what they are by beating the Niners by running the ball, and sending the world at Dilfer.

Chicago Bears @ Green Bay Packers (-3):
(Line: Monday, 1:00pm EST: Bookmaker)

The Bears are getting last years’ lines. The Packers are the better team this year, if the Bears start Grossman or Griese. Talk about questions in Chicago, the downfall of the Bears is getting more attention than the playoff Cubs. That’s a stunner. I like what Brett has done this year, but the Packers defense is what gets me getty. They are young and fly around making plays with the best of them. What really has me going Green Bay’s way is the Bears’ coaching questions each week. Every single week I’ve heard, “We need to get Hester more involved,” or “We need to get Greg Olsen in the game more,” or “We should win games instead of lose them.” Thanks for the ideas, now instead of claiming that you need to do one or the other, what do you think about just doing it? Take the Packers resurgence to continue.

Seattle Seahawks @ Pittsburgh Steelers (-5.5):
(Line: Tuesday, 2:00pm EST: Bookmaker)

Despite what I think about the Hawks, (they are very good), the fact is that they aren’t a very good road team, and seem to struggle against the AFC (like every NFC team). Also, this isn’t Trent Dilfer and the 49ers offense, this is the Steelers, a unit that is coming off a huge upset at the hands of their former coach. They are going to come out pissed and ready to go. Everything is working against the Hawks in this one, there’s no sense of urgency on their part, they’re away from Seattle, and that whole Super Bowl refereeing stick in the spokes is history. Look for Willie Parker to have a day.

Ask Papa Weimer Fantasy Football Know-It-All Oct 06

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Week 5 is here and I can’t remember a time when so many injuries have devastated the early season for fantasy owners everywhere – don’t panic, but start to consider it if you don’t win this week – lol – let the games begin!

Drop me your Fantasy Questions @ papaweimer50@hotmail.com

Papa Weimer-
So I have Westbrook, Rudi, and Fred Taylor on my roster and that’s it. I can start 2 RBs w/ the option of a 3rd in a WR/RB slot. Receiver-wise I am a bit light DJack, Reggie Wayne, Chambers and Isaac Bruce. I feel like I can get by with my receivers but I NEED RB help. I noticed Leon Washington, Kenny Watson and Earnest Graham are all available via the waiver wire in my league and I am in the number 1 waiver spot. What are your thoughts regarding the severity of the injuries to RJ and BW in relation to picking up 2 of those guys from waivers to fill in? Any sleeper waiver wire picks for WRs in your crystal ball? Thanks Papa – Mike Minninger in Bellingham, WA

I sure like Graham a lot more now that Cadillac is out for the season, but seeing recent reports of the Bucs doing everything in their power to get another running back doesn’t strike trust into Earnest Graham’s owners. Of the guys you listed, I like Graham’s upside the best, considering he’s young, has produced when given the chance, and the Bucs offensive line has looked good. (But remember, Luc Petitgot is out for the year as well, so it’ll be interesting to see if their back-up is worthy). I like Watson for you if Rudi doesn’t come back, and Leon Washington is a solid point producing option every single week, especially in PPR leagues – he’s a pass catching dynamo. However, this week, Westy and Johnson are on bye, so you need a runner to make 2, pairing with old man Fred Taylor. So, I’d go with Graham, because the Bucs will almost certainly rely on the run as much as possible considering the longer they have the ball, the less Peyton and company get to be on the field. That didn’t work too well for the Broncos last week, but the idea makes sense.

As for receivers, I like Jerry Porter, Mark Clayton (he’s getting dropped a lot, make yourself look good and pick him up if he’s out there), DJ Hackett (I still think that when he gets healthy, he produces well for the Hawks), and Bryant Johnson is a nice pickup this week if Boldin stays out – he’s always been good when given the chance to start. Thanks for the question Mike. And by the way, your receivers are just fine. Reggie and Chambers have been solid, and D-Jack will likely turn it around, even with Trent D heaving him the pig skin.

Papa,
In one of the leagues I play in I am the commissioner and our scoring gives -2 points to a QB if he is sacked. Last week D. McNabb scored -21 points. Three owners in my league have come to me and complained about that particular scoring. All urged me to adjust the scoring hence-forth and eliminate the -2 points for a sack to a QB. I am conflicted. I told everyone to check our scoring when signing up. Its always been rewarding for big plays but unforgiving if you suck. I want to be fair and I don’t think the owners collaborated together before speaking with me, but I also don’t think I should change my scoring system 1/4 through the season. What do you think? BK in Dallas

I think you should explain yourself on the message board just like you did to me. I think that your scoring is unique, and owners should have realized the chances they had to take with a quarterback that gets sacked a lot. I don’t think you should ever change the format of a league unless your league is being compromised because of a miscalculation in rules. For example, if your league didn’t have a waiver wire system, and it came up that waivers would make adding players more fair, than I can see a change. But in your example, the rules were the rules, and smart owners went about selecting their teams based on the rules you had. I think its very fair to keep them the way the are. Plus, its not like you are trying to screw any teams – you are just being fair. I’d try to stick to your guns, and explain that the rules have always been as such, and you think the ability to not kill your offensive drive by getting rid of the ball is an important aspect of quarterbacking. Thus, negative for sacks is a good idea. Its the same for every team, its not like any one team is getting an unfair deal.

I like your stat. Keep it how it is. But even if I didn’t like it, I think its only fair to keep things the way they have been since the beginning of the year.

I recently got a trade offer netting me Derek Ward and Shaun McDonald if I give up Caddy and Troy Williamson. I’m in a dynasty league where we keep everyone, and I can IR Caddy and pick someone else up. I’m 1-3, and it looks like I’m out of the running this year. I think Ward and McD are as high as they’ll get. I’ve already had Deuce go down for the year, but I still have Portis. Do you think this is worth the risk building for the future? – Arse in Ireland

I’m glad I can touch people in so many countries. Arse, I may be in the minority here, but I think that is a good deal for you. It kind of puts a few too many cards guys with serious knee problems, but I think the Caddy deal is worth the risk, plus you don’t lose much. Some stat-collectors may look at Shaun and Ward and see two starters, but with the foursome of receivers in Detroit, the smart money would be on McDonald leveling off. Also, Brandon Jacobs comes back this week, and if anything, he’ll get half the carries and all the goal-line looks, making Wards value about half what it is now. I still think Jacobs is going to be a beast this year, especially with the Giants playing better of late. Ward will get his carries, but Jacobs will eventually be a 20-25 carry a game guy, and that doesn’t leave much room for Mr. Ward. You don’t lose much, and while Caddy’s injury looks bad, (some have said career threatening) the best case scenario is worth the risk for a guy in your position.

Which of these “quality” quarterbacks would you start this week. Rank them from best option to worse if you can be so kind; Trent Green, Derek Anderson, Joey Harrington, Damon Huard, and Steve “Air” McNair. Let me know. – David Balog in Detroit

I’d go with Joey Harrington first, I believe. He’s been playing well over the past two games, and his confidence has never been higher. That doesn’t mean he won’t slip into an instant state of depression and start throwing outs to the defense this week, but it’s the best option you have. Next, I’d go with Damon Huard: he has Eddie Kennison back this week as a #2 receiver, which is exactly what Eddie should have been his whole career. He has Dwayne Bowe, who is everything I thought he would be. Plus he has Tony Gonzalez and a solid run-defense that will be spending most of their game preparation trying to stop Larry Johnson. That leaves room for a couple touchdown passes, and thus Damon might be a solid start. Next would probably be Trent Green, though I hate to admit it, because he throws no passes over 25 yards, and defenses are starting to realize that even the short passes come like marshmallows. Anderson gets the next nod, but I wouldn’t go there because New England is dirty. The only reason I like him at all is because the Browns will almost surely be getting curbed all day by the Patriots, leaving them with no option but to pass. That could get him some fantasy points. The reason I rank McNair last isn’t only because he’s looked bad, old, and slow, but because I think the Ravens will finally realize that if they want to win football games, they’ll ride their running backs to the point of downright exhaustion. Something needs to click with this team. But you can bet that the Ravens and 49ers will be part of a low scorer on Sunday, giving little chance for Steve to put up big passing numbers.

Last Weeks Questions

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

2007 Fantasy Football Review – Week 4

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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 continue the point tallies – and feel free to knock me on my picks! How’d I do? Check it out.This Week’s Top Team: Week 4’s team produced… NOT NEARLY ENOUGH DAMN POINTS!!!

QB: Tom Brady vs. Cincinnati: 231 yards, 3 touchdowns, 1 interception – free flowing greatness. Tom finished 4th in the quarterback ranking lists – boy is this guy good.

RB: Brian Westbrook vs. NY Giants:. “The Giants defense doesn’t have one guy that is fast enough to keep up with Westy, so I imagine he’ll beast them if he dresses.” I guess the key is here that Westy didn’t dress. Not only did Correl Buckhalter rush for over 100 yards, but the Eagles missed Westbrook dearly. The Giants defense pinned their ears back and went gung-ho after Donovan. 12 sacks later, the Eagles hope the bye week heals Brian’s riblets. 0 points here, obviously.

RB: Joseph Addai vs. Denver: Addai finished 3rd in the league for running backs, and he was hurt for the better part of the 2nd half. I don’t know what more to say, I hit this one right on the head. 136 yards and a TD. 20 fantasy points.

WR: Randy Moss vs. Cincinnati: Randy was 4th in the league behind a trio of surprises. Crayton, Bowe, and Holmes. I’ll tell you this, I’ll take my 102 yards and two scores from Randy any day. That’s 4 straight 100 yard games from Moss, and a score or more in each one of them. He’s back, folks. With Cleveland up next week, expect more of the same. Better yet, he was thrown to 9 times and caught 9 balls. LEGIT!

WR: Terrell Owens vs. St. Louis: Apparently TO told Tony Romo to see what Patrick Crayton could do this week with all the coverages in St. Louis all over Owens. Crayton went for a billion fantasy points, but TO only had 33 yards. 3 points on a day I needed more from the talkative WR.

TE: Antonio Gates vs. Kansas City: Gates had 6 grabs for 79 yards, but the Chargers couldn’t find the end-zone and they lost again. 7 points for the best TE in football. 9 guys had more fantasy points at the TE spot.

K: Matt Stover vs. Cleveland: Stover only had 7 points, and the Ravens looked absolutely terrible. Either that or the Browns are good. Well, I’ll take option one.

D: Chargers vs. Chiefs: The Chargers were bad, and this game has me thinking – coaching has more to do with Ws than people think. Phillips, Cameron, Schottenheimer – gone – enter a new coaching staff and a 1-3 record to start the season. 6 useless fantasy points.

LUCKY’S Week 4 SLEEPERS

Daunte Culpepper: 5 touchdowns and an end zone dance that had him pointing to his knee “problem” – brilliant. Daunte rocked the Dolphins, and although his passing numbers weren’t grand – he was solid, and you have to love it. A+

Rex Grossman: Hey, Rex got the boot by Wednesday, so like I said, cross this one out. I do think he would have put up at least as good of numbers as Griese, maybe even have led the Bears to a W – but what do I know?

Brian Leonard: Leonard only had 6 fantasy points, and Dallas destroyed the Rams’ offense. How bad have the Rams been? How good is Dallas? This is worth a C-, because Leonard got 6 points as a stop gap start.

Marshawn Lynch: Lynch finished tied for 6th in RB rankings, with only 79 rushing yards and a touchdown. This kid is good, because everyone on the Jets defense was trying to shut down the run – yet he was still productive. B

Thomas Jones: 5 fantasy points. I hate the Jets play calling. They need to ride their rushing attack, because Chad can’t throw the ball 40 times a game. 12 carries for Thomas Jones is just downright ridiculous. D

Lee Evans: Lee only had 7 points, but outscored his first 3 games combined by catching 6 for 72 yards against the Jets – plus the Bills won a game. Crazy. B-

Joey Galloway: Galloway didn’t register on the WR list in my league. That’s English for F-.

Greg Olsen: 1 fantasy point – I hate the Bears. F

Packers DST: 12 fantasy points for the Pack, but it would have been less if the dumb Vikings play callers had given the ball to Adrian Peterson more. If you have a stud, use him. I’ll take a B.

LUCKY’S Week 4 Bench Riders

Peyton Manning: Peyton Manning is good – I was wrong – I apologize to the whole Manning family and everyone else involved with those two square-headed donkeys. 25 fantasy points for Peyton.

Larry Johnson: LJ had 140+ total yards and 14 fantasy points. He was solid. He was LJ. Its nice to see the old LJ back, and kind of freaky to see how bad the Chargers defense is playing.

Edgerrin James: Edge was solid. I was wrong. He was tied for 6th, finishing with 77 yards and a touchdown. I was wrong again. Dang.

Marvin Harrison: Marvin had a bad day, but mainly because he sprained his knee and only played one half of one quarter. So if you say Marvin, that was probably a lucky move for you.

Algae Crumpler: There will be no time for Harrington to get the ball to his tight end, and the short pass will be heavily guarded by a nice set of linebackers and safeties. Overall, I think Crump’s day will be very average at best.

2007 Fantasy Football theRUNDOWN Week 5

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This Week’s Top Team: Week 5 is here, and bye weeks have limited an option or two. No worries, I’m here to give you a starting lineup that should be dominant, and some sleepers to be had in hopes of picking up a point or two for a close victory. Here you go.

QB: Tom Brady vs. Cleveland: This one’s a toss up between Tony Romo and The One. Well, The One gets the nod because I think the Cowboys will run the ball too much for Romo to have a bigger day than Brady.

RB: LaDainian Tomlinson vs. Denver: I have to stick with LT here. Denver hasn’t been able to stop the run, and LT has the fierce eye of frustration in his eye. I think the Chargers will ride LT to a win in Denver.

RB: Marion Barber vs. Buffalo: Barber is a risk here, because he’s not even the starter on his own team. But I have a feeling the Cowboys will run the ball a lot next week in Buffalo. Give Marion 20 carries, and that’s 100+ yards and a couple touchdowns. I’ll take that chance.

WR: Randy Moss vs. Cleveland: Randy is a flat out stud. I’m rolling with Randy to do Cleveland up. Randy catches everything thrown his way and is better than anyone thought he was. Tom Brady is his quarterback, a hard throwing, accurate, risk taker. Randy’s dreams have come true.

WR: Plaxico Burress vs. NY Jets: I think Plaxico will torment this defense. He had a down week last week, but still caught a touchdown. This week, after another few days of skipping practice, Plax should be plenty healthy enough to torment the Jets secondary.

TE: Jason Witten vs. Buffalo: I like Gates to take advantage of a strong running game this weekend. On the goal-line, if Dallas takes a second to give the ball to someone not named Marion Barber, it will be a play action dump to Witten.

K: Nate Kaeding vs. Denver: With LT, the ball will move down the field. With the Chargers offense, the ball won’t get into the end zone every drive. That leaves room for Kaeding to kick in Denver. I like that combo-set.

D: Patriots vs. Cleveland: I know, the Browns have put up tons of points. So what. New England is football’s version of Michael Jordan’s Chicago Bulls. I expect lots of turnovers and very few points out of Cleveland.

LUCKY’S Week 5 SLEEPERS

Jason Campbell: Give me an underrated quarterback against the Detroit Lions’ secondary, and I’ll give you a nice sleeper candidate for this weekends’ fantasy stats. Campbell has had 2 weeks to prepare for Detroit – that makes me believe a big day is in the future.

Panthers Starting QB: Even if you have to start David Carr, I think the Panthers’ starting quarterback will have an easy 15 point fantasy day against the Saints’ pathetic defense.

Julius Jones: Jones might get a 100 yard day in Buffalo this weekend. I have a feeling that the Cowboys will ride their running game, and 100 total yards for Jones isn’t out of the question.

Brandon Jacobs: The Jets can’t stop anyone running the football. If Jacobs gets cleared, he might end up with a couple touchdowns on Sunday. That’s a good day for a sleeper who has been out for 3 weeks.

LenDale White: I like LenDale to have his most productive outing this weekend against Atlanta. White is a big bad runner, and the Falcons aren’t a big defensive unit. Expect him to get close to 20 carries 100 yards and a touchdown.

Lee Evans: I’m sticking with Lee here. I think the Bills will need to score points if they want to stay anywhere close to Dallas. Evans is the quickest way to a touchdown. Look for him to take a short pass to the house for his first touchdown of the season.

Larry Fitzgerald: Larry hasn’t been as dominant as I figured he’d be, but that means he could be a nice buy low option. Fitz will have his way with the Rams defense, as that secondary will key in on the more productive Anquan Boldin. Fitz could have a couple scores and 100 yards on Sunday.

Chris Cooley: Guy plays the Lions, and he’s a touchdown threat every single time the Skins are in the red zone. That should be a lot considering they are playing the Lions.

Cardinals DST: Arizona will try to feast on the turnover happy, terrible offense that has taken over the greatest show on turf. The game is in St. Louis, which could cause trouble – but the Cardinals’ defensive unit is very aggressive and physical. That’s not a good sign for a team with 1 offensive line starter in the lineup.

LUCKY’S Week 5 Splinter-Butts (bench him, son)

Phillip Rivers: I don’t think Phillip will have such a bad day, but he won’t get enough passing attempts to be a starter worthy option against Denver.

Shaun Alexander: The Steelers will shut Shaun down. Alexander has been busy running like a pussy since he got his big deal a season and a half ago. I counted, and in 25 carries last week, he lowered his shoulder once. I think it was an accident.

Jamal Lewis: Note to fantasy owners – your player plays the Patriots, bench him. Especially if he’s a running back on a bad team. Don’t be confused by their 2-2 record, the Browns are a bad team.

Tory Holt: I didn’t think there would be a day I suggested a benching of Holt, he’s always open – but with the way the Rams have been playing, and the physical nature of the Cardinals defense in mind, I have to bench most Rams this weekend.

Todd Heap: I just don’t like Heap this week. He’s kind of hurt (what’s new?) and the Ravens have sucked bad. I’ll stay away from the Ravens until they flip a switch.