Amesbury Lake Armadillos v. Wings of Pastrami
Any team with Peyton and All Day Peterson can be scary in the playoffs. Either player can simply “turn it on” and go crazy with a 50 points game. But the truth is, neither of them has lived up to their legendary status as of late. AP has topped 30 once since Week 1 and Peyton hasn’t topped 40 points in over a month. Is this the week all things come together for the “Ace and Gary” of fantasy football?
The WOP’s lived to fight another day thanks to the winning the “TUMS Game of the Week” in round 1. This team finds a way to at least score a decent average each week, even without a #1 player in terms of points at any position and only 2 players that break the top 10. They have broken the elusive 200 point barrier twice this year, but somewhere between 130-150 is more likely from week to week. Will that be enough in the Semifinals?
QBs
Peyton Manning v. Kurt Warner
Mr. Consistent vs. Captain Stubble. Peyton will NOT be benched in the 2nd half. Peyton will NOT score less than 30 points. Peyton will NOT be hurt in the 1st quarter. See what I’m doing here? It’s called reverse psychology. It works wonders. Warner struggled through his worst game of the season; fumbles, INTs and never really getting in a groove with his WRs. Expect much better things against the Detroit Kittens.
Prediction-
Manning will explode for 325 yards and 3 TDs – before the 4th quarter. Warner will have fun playing this D/ST – he’ll get the bonus and 2 TDs.
RBs
Adrian Peterson/Beanie Wells v. Frank Gore/Pierre Thomas
Peterson is a “gimmie” for a real good game, but not a great game any more. He faces a CAR team that is in the bottom 10 against the run. AP should be able to do well once again. Wells isn’t the #1 guy in ARI, but don’t tell him that. A slaughtering should be in turn for him this week.
Gore got rid of any ill will his owners my have had for him lately with his 2nd best effort all season. Now facing a brick wall of PHI D/ST, he can only go down from here. Thomas is the best at being average. He has topped 20 points only once in the past 8 weeks, but has also posted less than 10 points only once in that same span. Going up to a stout DAL run defense, it should expect another so-so game.
Prediction – This is where ALA can win this matchup. Both Peterson and Wells give the gift of great games; Peterson with the bonus and a TD, Wells with 80 yards and a TD. Gore and Thomas combine for a Grinch like 23 points total. Bah Humbug!
WR
Kenny Britt/Pierre Garcon/Roy Williams v. Randy Moss/Calvin Johnson/TJ Housh
It sounds like a French Guy and 2 Country Western singers versus some of the biggest WR names of the Preseason. But Britt and Garcon have vaulted their way up the charts and Roy Williams has even showed up a little bit this season. Moss and Megatron still have the ability to melt faces. But actually doing it has been a little tougher. TJ Housh might as well John Q Average this season.
Prediction – The law firm of Britt, Garcon, and Williams doesn’t do much; no bonuses and 1 TD between them. Moss comes back in a big way to shut everyone the hell up. Expect the bonus or 2 TDs. Johnson will have trouble getting to the end zone, but 80 yards on 6 catches should be expected. Housh? Who cares?
TE
Visanthe Shiancoe v. Greg Olson
Both TEs struggled last week. Shiancoe looks to have an injury and Olson looks to have started being doubled team. Both play teams that are tough against the pass and don’t give much to TEs.
Prediction – Shiancoe will score a cheap TD after a long Peterson run, but don’t expect more than 25 yards. Olson will get a few catches, think 6. And some yardage, think 55. But no TDs are in the cards this week.
D/ST
Minn Vikings v. NY Jets
The Nordic Plunder-ers face a Carolina team that never seems to reach 300 yards or 20 points in a game. They might be lucky to get half of that against the Vikings. The J-E-T-S have been on a role lately, scoring 41, 26, and 32 points in the past 3 weeks. Versus an ATL team that might be getting Ryan and Turner back this week, getting 20+ might be tough.
Prediction – Vikings show Matt Moore why he should stick to being a #3 QB. They will force 5 turnovers and get plenty of points, upwards of 30. NY Jets will go back to being okay – between 12-18 points.
K
Rob Bironas v. Matt Prater
Bironas brought the goods last week with 19 points and should see no reason NOT to grab double digit points again. After weeks and weeks of decentness, Prater petered out. Look for a bounce back at home against the Raiders.
Prediction – Bironas could kick with his opposite foot and still get 10+ points this week. So, yeah, he’ll get 10+. Prater kicks his way off the Island of Misfit Kickers with a double digit performance himself.
Overall prediction -
Both teams kinda sucked it up last week and came away with wins. This week is gonna be the same thing. Met with average matchups and strange, late-season variables, neither team is gonna light it up with a 200 point week. The difference though will be a strong effort from the WOPs WR corp that was drafted to be studs. They show up this week and keep the team flying closer and closer to the sun. Wings of Pastrami - 147 to Amesbury Lake Armadillos 139
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Semifinal matchup - Legend of Bo vs. Avalon Creek Assassins
Legend of Bo vs. Avalon Creek Assassins
From 1860 – 1865 this country embarked a conflict so fierce and so personal it would take decades to even start to repair the wounds. This semi-final matchup might very well inflict the same long term hurt. Brother versus brother; it gets no more serious than that. The winner? A chance at the league championship. The loser? Months of mental torture at the hands of a close loved one. Both teams can look at the past 13 weeks and see glimpses of a championship caliber team. But who matches up best when it counts the most?
QB
Aaron Rodgers v. Matt Schaub
One is coming off their worst week. The other is fresh off one of the best. Rodgers faces a PITT D/ST that would have been scary in week 1. Without Hand and Shoulders Troy P, they have looked at best, average. Rodger should have no problem with this matchup Schaub was supposed to be hurt last week. Nope. Look for another school yard game with lots of points
Prediction – Rodgers bounces back in a big way, at least 40 points. If Schaub doesn’t get 50, the ACA might be pouting a little bit
RB
MJD/A Fosters v. Chris Johnson
Both teams find themselves at a weird spot this late in the playoffs; without a decent #2 RB. Of Bo has chosen to reach into the depths of waive wire. ACA just said screw it. MJD has been lacking in the bonus department for a while, not since week 10. Foster is the “Flavor of the Week” in Hou, but facing a STL D/ST, he’ll be steady. What more can be said about Chris Johnson? He’s good.
Prediction – MJD scores 2 TDs but again misses the bonus. Foster is average, 60 yards, but nothing to write home about. Johnson does what he do – 140 total yards and a TD.
WR
Boldin/Jackson/Steve Smith (Car) vs. Andre Johnson/Reggie Wayne
The past few weeks, the trio of WR from Of Bo have been better and better. That trend should continue with good matchups for everyone. ACA, once again, bucks convention, and goes with a less than need set of players. But that duo is hard to beat, even with Reggie doing his best Houdini act lately.
Prediction - Boldin explodes for a bonus and a 2 TDs. The other do less impressive, but still okay; 75 yards apiece. Johnson and Wayne show up big this week, bonuses and TDs for all!
TEs
Kevin Boss v. J Finley/Brent Celek
Kevin showed it was he, not Mona or Tony that was the boss last week. He brought the goods against the WASH D/ST last time (week 1) and should again. Finley is a high risk / high yield play. A risky move that could pay off when your opponent has the QB throwing to him. Celek should have no problem against a soft SF D/ST.
Prediction – Boss will get the yardage and the catches, but no TD when facing an improving WASH D/ST. Finley surprises but is no way a good replacement as a #3 WR. Celek, though, makes up for it with a big game, close to bonus and a TD.
D/ST
Chiefs v. Giants
Even facing an awful Cleveland team, the K.C. D/ST is a bold choice. The team is capable of a good game, but not great. A home game for the Chiefs makes the decision rather good overall. NY Giants were supposed to be the savior for the ACA team back when they got them as a buy low. They team never turned it around, gave up 45 points last week and now face a rather hot offense in the Redskins.
Prediction – Kansas City shows up big and keeps the yardage and points low. But the INTs or fumbles never come. The Giants do just the opposite, lots of yards and points, but also lots of fumbles and INTs.
K’s
Has a kicker even the difference in a fantasy playoff matchup? Josh Brown plays for an awful offense with a new QB that could be worse than a 65 year old Jim Everett. Hartley gets to kick for one of the highest octane O’s in the past 10 years. Hmm? Who does better?
Prediction – Josh Brown sucks. I hate that traitor. No wonder he doesn’t get more than 4 points. Hartley will get a few XPs until the 4th quarter when N.O. stops trying and just lets him kicks FGs. He’ll break 10 points easy.
OVERALL PREDICTION -
On paper, the ACA should run, not walk to the Championship game. But they actually do have play the games still. Both teams have great matchups and poor matchups. The difference maker will come down to how Schaub, Finley and the Giants D/ST. Those players should do enough over their counterparts to provide a buffer in the points. Sorry Legend of Bo, the storybook season ends here.
Avalon Creek Assassins 152 – Legend of Bo - 137
From 1860 – 1865 this country embarked a conflict so fierce and so personal it would take decades to even start to repair the wounds. This semi-final matchup might very well inflict the same long term hurt. Brother versus brother; it gets no more serious than that. The winner? A chance at the league championship. The loser? Months of mental torture at the hands of a close loved one. Both teams can look at the past 13 weeks and see glimpses of a championship caliber team. But who matches up best when it counts the most?
QB
Aaron Rodgers v. Matt Schaub
One is coming off their worst week. The other is fresh off one of the best. Rodgers faces a PITT D/ST that would have been scary in week 1. Without Hand and Shoulders Troy P, they have looked at best, average. Rodger should have no problem with this matchup Schaub was supposed to be hurt last week. Nope. Look for another school yard game with lots of points
Prediction – Rodgers bounces back in a big way, at least 40 points. If Schaub doesn’t get 50, the ACA might be pouting a little bit
RB
MJD/A Fosters v. Chris Johnson
Both teams find themselves at a weird spot this late in the playoffs; without a decent #2 RB. Of Bo has chosen to reach into the depths of waive wire. ACA just said screw it. MJD has been lacking in the bonus department for a while, not since week 10. Foster is the “Flavor of the Week” in Hou, but facing a STL D/ST, he’ll be steady. What more can be said about Chris Johnson? He’s good.
Prediction – MJD scores 2 TDs but again misses the bonus. Foster is average, 60 yards, but nothing to write home about. Johnson does what he do – 140 total yards and a TD.
WR
Boldin/Jackson/Steve Smith (Car) vs. Andre Johnson/Reggie Wayne
The past few weeks, the trio of WR from Of Bo have been better and better. That trend should continue with good matchups for everyone. ACA, once again, bucks convention, and goes with a less than need set of players. But that duo is hard to beat, even with Reggie doing his best Houdini act lately.
Prediction - Boldin explodes for a bonus and a 2 TDs. The other do less impressive, but still okay; 75 yards apiece. Johnson and Wayne show up big this week, bonuses and TDs for all!
TEs
Kevin Boss v. J Finley/Brent Celek
Kevin showed it was he, not Mona or Tony that was the boss last week. He brought the goods against the WASH D/ST last time (week 1) and should again. Finley is a high risk / high yield play. A risky move that could pay off when your opponent has the QB throwing to him. Celek should have no problem against a soft SF D/ST.
Prediction – Boss will get the yardage and the catches, but no TD when facing an improving WASH D/ST. Finley surprises but is no way a good replacement as a #3 WR. Celek, though, makes up for it with a big game, close to bonus and a TD.
D/ST
Chiefs v. Giants
Even facing an awful Cleveland team, the K.C. D/ST is a bold choice. The team is capable of a good game, but not great. A home game for the Chiefs makes the decision rather good overall. NY Giants were supposed to be the savior for the ACA team back when they got them as a buy low. They team never turned it around, gave up 45 points last week and now face a rather hot offense in the Redskins.
Prediction – Kansas City shows up big and keeps the yardage and points low. But the INTs or fumbles never come. The Giants do just the opposite, lots of yards and points, but also lots of fumbles and INTs.
K’s
Has a kicker even the difference in a fantasy playoff matchup? Josh Brown plays for an awful offense with a new QB that could be worse than a 65 year old Jim Everett. Hartley gets to kick for one of the highest octane O’s in the past 10 years. Hmm? Who does better?
Prediction – Josh Brown sucks. I hate that traitor. No wonder he doesn’t get more than 4 points. Hartley will get a few XPs until the 4th quarter when N.O. stops trying and just lets him kicks FGs. He’ll break 10 points easy.
OVERALL PREDICTION -
On paper, the ACA should run, not walk to the Championship game. But they actually do have play the games still. Both teams have great matchups and poor matchups. The difference maker will come down to how Schaub, Finley and the Giants D/ST. Those players should do enough over their counterparts to provide a buffer in the points. Sorry Legend of Bo, the storybook season ends here.
Avalon Creek Assassins 152 – Legend of Bo - 137
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Round 1 Match up - Cottonwood Hills Pricks vs. Wings of Pastrami
Cottonwood Hills Pricks versus Wings of Pastrami
The Pricks have annoyed teams with a core of studs unmatched by any team this year. Now the 2nd highest scoring team in the league, they have not scored under 155 in the past 5 weeks after “The Trade” and have high expectations for the playoffs. The WOPs have flown close to sun a few times with big scores and lots of trades. Overall, thier scoring has been middle of the pack due to some under performing “big guns” and few injuries. Can they bring all the ingredients together to make a playoff upset sandwich?
QBs
Drew Brees v. Kurt Warner
The key to the Pricks success will hinge on Brees. No matter how many other players on his team do their job, how Brees does each week will determine how long the Pricks playoff run lasts. This week versus a beat up and lost looking ATL D/ST, Brees should flourish. The only worry is that a blow out could mean a 4th quarter benching. Anything less than the bonus and 2 TDs would be bad news. Kurt “Captain Stubble” or “My wife is now a hottie” Warner should be considered an elite QB; when he isn’t being an old man and sitting on the bench. Though he didn’t do to well against a SF team in week 1, Warner has looked great and played great and should be his old self – expect yardage close to a bonus and at least 2 tds.
Prediction – Brees does his thing; you can’t stop him, you can only hope to contain him. Not happening this week. He’ll get 50+ points. Warner makes things happen as well and comes close to matching Brees with 45+ plus himself.
RBs
Steven Jackson/Rashard Mendenhall v. Frank Gore/Pierre Thomas
All SJAX has done is rattle off 5 bonuses in 6 games, even with a messed up spinal cord. Tennessee D/ST could present a small resistance, but what other choice does St. Louis have then to shove Steven down their throat? It’s a rhetorical questions, but umm, none. Mendenhall has looked great and faces the weakest of weak this week versus Cleveland, who apparently still has a team. The weather outside, and around, Cleveland is frightful with snowstorms and crazy wind. And the Steelers are going with a banged up Hines Ward. Could this mean 20+ carries again for Mendenhall? We’ll see. Gore and Thomas have been the definition of average these past weeks. Sure they get a TD and some catches, but neither has hit the bonus in at least 3 weeks and both are in the middle of confusing game plans within their offenses. Gore faces a team in ARI that stuffed AP last week and Frenchy is going against an ATL team that you have mucho success through the air, not the ground.
Prediction – SJAX once again hits the bonus in a big way but doesn’t find the endzone. Mendenhall will have trouble in the slop in Cleveland. He want get the bonus and will have a fumble lost to boot. Gore will surprise as a new game plan in SF will help him get back to normal; no bonus but a TD and lots of catches, think close to 20 points. Frenchy will get a score thanks to some garbage time in the Dirty South. He’ll get his normal 12 points.
WRs
Larry Fitzgerald/Sidney Rice/Robert Meachem v. Randy Moss/Calvin Johnson/TJ Housh
Both squads boast a strong trio that any week can put together 90 points between them. The Pricks rely on some new, hot players but also count on their first round pick, Fitzgerald, to bring the pain each week, and he usually does. Meachem has been hot, but will that last in an offense that has so many weapons? The same could be said of Rice Rice Baby, though he has fast become a Farve Favorite®. WOPs have a strong name recognition group that has underwhelmed as a unit in the past month. Moss has had a great game, Megatron has had a great game, and even TJ has. But all three once? It could happen given the matchups, but it hard to count on.
Prediction -
If the WOPs have any edge overall, it’s at this position. Moss and Johnson both hit the bonus and TD jackpot, but TJ “Whose Your Momma” falls short once again, but better than his last 3 weeks. Larry Fitzgerald gets its going with a big game, but teams suffocate Rice and Meachem, and neither of them get more than 12 points a piece.
TEs
Jason Witten v. Greg Olson
Looking like a bust for the first 10 weeks of the season, Witten has once again shown why he needs to be considered elite. 2 huge back to back games give him some “Uncle Mo” going into the playoffs and he strikes TE Fantasy gold facing the SD Chargers who have given the 3rd most TDs to TE this season. Olson was in the same boat earlier in the year; up the river to “Bustville.” He has been a nice safety valve for Cutler the past 2 months, but has no bonuses and hasn’t scored in over a month. So while he's coming off a miserable week 13, he faces the Packers who have allowed the second-most touchdowns to tight ends (7).
Predication –
Witten will actually get shut down to an extent; he’ll grab a TD but will lack in yardage and get around 13 points. Olsen does what he does every week; above average yardage, a handful of catches, no TDs and around 8 points.
Ks
Dan Carpenter v. Matt Prater
Both of these kickers are top notch; neither has missed in over 2 months. Carpenter gets a lot of chances to due to MIAMI team that stalls in the red zone. Prater gets his because of the turnovers the Denver D/ST creates.
Prediction – Dan the Man should see at least 8 points and maybe upwards of 12. Prater is kicking indoors for a team that has been clicking on offense lately; expect another double digit game, like 12-15 points.
D/STs
NO Saints v. NY Jets
The Saints have turned things around big time this year. Though they can be scored on a lot and teams end up doing some damage in garbage time, this unit generally can force the QB into some picks and has the most TDs in the NFL. The Jets are coming off back to back big games from their D/ST and now face one of the worst teams in the NFL, the Tampa Bay Bucs, and a rookie QB. Good things should happen.
Prediction –
“Who ‘Dat?” brings a solid score to the table thanks to Chris Redman having to throw all day. Most of their points, around 19 or so, will come from INTs, not low scores. The Jets make a super sonic noise with a big game. They should grab a bunch of pirate booty, at least 2 INTs, 2 fumbles, and will drop a 25+ point game this week.
FINAL PREDICTION
For not being a #1 seed, the Pricks sure are scary. They boast above-average to great players in each slot. You won’t be able to beat them by scoring 125 points and hoping they falter. You simply have to outscore them. And it won’t happen this week. While WOPs can bring the goods with a few players, they’ll need a bonus from everyone and their mom to make a score of 180+ happen. Cottonwood Hills Pricks -189 to Wings of Pastrami - 165
The Pricks have annoyed teams with a core of studs unmatched by any team this year. Now the 2nd highest scoring team in the league, they have not scored under 155 in the past 5 weeks after “The Trade” and have high expectations for the playoffs. The WOPs have flown close to sun a few times with big scores and lots of trades. Overall, thier scoring has been middle of the pack due to some under performing “big guns” and few injuries. Can they bring all the ingredients together to make a playoff upset sandwich?
QBs
Drew Brees v. Kurt Warner
The key to the Pricks success will hinge on Brees. No matter how many other players on his team do their job, how Brees does each week will determine how long the Pricks playoff run lasts. This week versus a beat up and lost looking ATL D/ST, Brees should flourish. The only worry is that a blow out could mean a 4th quarter benching. Anything less than the bonus and 2 TDs would be bad news. Kurt “Captain Stubble” or “My wife is now a hottie” Warner should be considered an elite QB; when he isn’t being an old man and sitting on the bench. Though he didn’t do to well against a SF team in week 1, Warner has looked great and played great and should be his old self – expect yardage close to a bonus and at least 2 tds.
Prediction – Brees does his thing; you can’t stop him, you can only hope to contain him. Not happening this week. He’ll get 50+ points. Warner makes things happen as well and comes close to matching Brees with 45+ plus himself.
RBs
Steven Jackson/Rashard Mendenhall v. Frank Gore/Pierre Thomas
All SJAX has done is rattle off 5 bonuses in 6 games, even with a messed up spinal cord. Tennessee D/ST could present a small resistance, but what other choice does St. Louis have then to shove Steven down their throat? It’s a rhetorical questions, but umm, none. Mendenhall has looked great and faces the weakest of weak this week versus Cleveland, who apparently still has a team. The weather outside, and around, Cleveland is frightful with snowstorms and crazy wind. And the Steelers are going with a banged up Hines Ward. Could this mean 20+ carries again for Mendenhall? We’ll see. Gore and Thomas have been the definition of average these past weeks. Sure they get a TD and some catches, but neither has hit the bonus in at least 3 weeks and both are in the middle of confusing game plans within their offenses. Gore faces a team in ARI that stuffed AP last week and Frenchy is going against an ATL team that you have mucho success through the air, not the ground.
Prediction – SJAX once again hits the bonus in a big way but doesn’t find the endzone. Mendenhall will have trouble in the slop in Cleveland. He want get the bonus and will have a fumble lost to boot. Gore will surprise as a new game plan in SF will help him get back to normal; no bonus but a TD and lots of catches, think close to 20 points. Frenchy will get a score thanks to some garbage time in the Dirty South. He’ll get his normal 12 points.
WRs
Larry Fitzgerald/Sidney Rice/Robert Meachem v. Randy Moss/Calvin Johnson/TJ Housh
Both squads boast a strong trio that any week can put together 90 points between them. The Pricks rely on some new, hot players but also count on their first round pick, Fitzgerald, to bring the pain each week, and he usually does. Meachem has been hot, but will that last in an offense that has so many weapons? The same could be said of Rice Rice Baby, though he has fast become a Farve Favorite®. WOPs have a strong name recognition group that has underwhelmed as a unit in the past month. Moss has had a great game, Megatron has had a great game, and even TJ has. But all three once? It could happen given the matchups, but it hard to count on.
Prediction -
If the WOPs have any edge overall, it’s at this position. Moss and Johnson both hit the bonus and TD jackpot, but TJ “Whose Your Momma” falls short once again, but better than his last 3 weeks. Larry Fitzgerald gets its going with a big game, but teams suffocate Rice and Meachem, and neither of them get more than 12 points a piece.
TEs
Jason Witten v. Greg Olson
Looking like a bust for the first 10 weeks of the season, Witten has once again shown why he needs to be considered elite. 2 huge back to back games give him some “Uncle Mo” going into the playoffs and he strikes TE Fantasy gold facing the SD Chargers who have given the 3rd most TDs to TE this season. Olson was in the same boat earlier in the year; up the river to “Bustville.” He has been a nice safety valve for Cutler the past 2 months, but has no bonuses and hasn’t scored in over a month. So while he's coming off a miserable week 13, he faces the Packers who have allowed the second-most touchdowns to tight ends (7).
Predication –
Witten will actually get shut down to an extent; he’ll grab a TD but will lack in yardage and get around 13 points. Olsen does what he does every week; above average yardage, a handful of catches, no TDs and around 8 points.
Ks
Dan Carpenter v. Matt Prater
Both of these kickers are top notch; neither has missed in over 2 months. Carpenter gets a lot of chances to due to MIAMI team that stalls in the red zone. Prater gets his because of the turnovers the Denver D/ST creates.
Prediction – Dan the Man should see at least 8 points and maybe upwards of 12. Prater is kicking indoors for a team that has been clicking on offense lately; expect another double digit game, like 12-15 points.
D/STs
NO Saints v. NY Jets
The Saints have turned things around big time this year. Though they can be scored on a lot and teams end up doing some damage in garbage time, this unit generally can force the QB into some picks and has the most TDs in the NFL. The Jets are coming off back to back big games from their D/ST and now face one of the worst teams in the NFL, the Tampa Bay Bucs, and a rookie QB. Good things should happen.
Prediction –
“Who ‘Dat?” brings a solid score to the table thanks to Chris Redman having to throw all day. Most of their points, around 19 or so, will come from INTs, not low scores. The Jets make a super sonic noise with a big game. They should grab a bunch of pirate booty, at least 2 INTs, 2 fumbles, and will drop a 25+ point game this week.
FINAL PREDICTION
For not being a #1 seed, the Pricks sure are scary. They boast above-average to great players in each slot. You won’t be able to beat them by scoring 125 points and hoping they falter. You simply have to outscore them. And it won’t happen this week. While WOPs can bring the goods with a few players, they’ll need a bonus from everyone and their mom to make a score of 180+ happen. Cottonwood Hills Pricks -189 to Wings of Pastrami - 165
Round 1 Match up - Amesbury Lake Armadillos v. Afton Creek Cookie Monsters
Amesbury Lake Armadillos vs. Afton Creek Cookie Monsters
This matchup features the # 1 seed that is Ninth in the league in points scored and has lost 3 in a row versus a team that started 0-4 but won 4 of its last 6 with a nice weekly average. Even with a 10 point bonus for the Armadillos, could an upset be popping its head out? Let’s take a look.
QBs
Peyton Manning v. Ben Roethlisberger
The ultimate fantasy QB goes head to head with a signal caller who has been up and down all year. Manning ranks as the #1 at his position, but has slowed down as of late. No bonuses in his last 3 games, Manning now faces a Denver D/ST who can be thrown on. Can he show up big in Round1? Roethlisberger has been high (60 points) and low (16 points) and his matchup is sugary sweet versus an awful Cleveland team. Expect big things again.
Prediction – Manning gets back to normal with a bonus and a few tds. Guess what though? Big Ben doesn’t; not with bad weather, no Hines Ward and probably a huge lead by halftime.
RBs
Adrian Peterson v. DeAngelo Willams / Thomas Jones
When you only have 1 RB, it might as well be AP. Peterson has not been himself lately; he is only running on 3.0 yards per rush. Peterson will get to run on CIN D/ST who is without their top run stuffer. Good things should happen. Jones has been pretty good after people thought he might be part of a time share all year. He should be expected to hit a bonus or grab a TD each game. D Williams was hurt last week but is also can do some damage against the right team; NE D/ST can be run on.
Prediction – Peterson runs like a man possessed, bum ankle and all. He’ll get a bonus and a TD. Williams won’t get all the carries and it will show in the box score. Jones though should be able to showcase his skills since Sanchez wont there and TB sucks. He’ll get a bonus and some TDs as well.
WRs
Roy Williams/Nate Burleson/Pierre Garcon/Jeremy Maclin v. Roddy White/Devin Thomas/Mario Manningham
Though this group may not list any future Hall of Famers, it does boast a few players who have garnered a few big games and show up huge when the match up is right. The strength for the Armadillos is the strong play of Garcon, Manning’s new favorite target, and Burleson/Williams when they decide to show up. Given the matchups, all should get close to a bonus. Roddy White is forced to catch passes from Chris Redman, which doesn’t seem like a good way to score points, but it didn’t hurt last week. With a ATL team that is sure to be down and maybe without Burner Turner, White should expect another big game against the Big Easy (he scored 29 last time against them.) The rest of the WR corps for the Cookie Monsters is a crumbly mess; they get enough targets to be starter worthy, but who knows.
Prediction – The 4 pack of WRs for the Armadillos does some damage, with Garcon and grabbing the bonus and continuing to be a late season stud. Williams and Burleson come close to the bonus but things are too spread in their respective offensives to be that greedy. Roddy White will get the bonus, but the other WRs wont clear 15 points combined.
TEs
Visanthe Shiancoe v. Dallas Clark
When the season started, no one knew how to say “Visanthe Shiancoe” let alone think he’d be starting the playoffs. When he score, which is often, it’s awesome. When he doesn’t, it’s not much to look at. He gets red zone targets, and those are what truly matters for TEs as the bonus is hard to come by. What else can you say about D Clark? Probably the most consistent TE in the league, the only time he suffers is when teams make him priority #1 to stop, but that’s hard to do when the Colts have so many other weapons. He plays Denver this week, which I the second best team against TEs. So who will the battle?
Prediction – No reason Shiancoe shouldn’t get his TD and some catches, expect a game with points north of 12 points. Clark will get stymied by the Broncos D/ST and disappoint his owners in round 1; anything over 8 points would be “real nice, Clark” (make an okay hand signal when you say this.)
D/STs
Minnesota Vikings v. Cincin Bengals
A strange, but very important, battle since these teams plays each other this week. Minnesota has been great all year as well. They never had that AMAZING 40+ point game and have scored negative points twice as well, but no group can be counted on for a strong showing week in and week out like this squad. The Bengals have been a nice surprise this year, scoring 10+ points in 12 of 13 games. But without Odom and facing Farve’s crew on the turf, it might get ugly.
Prediction – Cincinnati keeps this one close and low scoring; until the 2nd half. And then things get ugly. Yards and points will pile up, though 2 picks from Farve seems likely too; expect around 12 points. Minnesota fumbles sacks and picks its way to big game at a home. Anything less than 18 points would be disappointing.
Ks
Ryan Longwell v Rob Bironas
An interesting starting note – Longwell will be kicking against Cincinnati who the Cookie Monsters will be deploying as their D/ST. Points for Longwell means less points for Bengals D/ST. Hard to know who to cheer for. Bironas has been a big benefactor when the Titans were on their winning streak. He’ll be good again as the Titans roll again this week
Prediction - Longwell should be good for at least 10 points, much to the dismay of the Cookie Monsters. And Bironas? Kicking against the Rams? Indoors? Expect 10 plus point as well.
Final prediction –
It’s gonna be close. Each team has studs hat need to show and question marks that need to be answered. It’s hard to bet against a team with Manning and AP, but the Monsters do have some studs that can ring your bell as well. In the end, a big game by the Vikings D/ST and a surprise big game from Burleson is the difference maker.
Amesbury Lake Armadillos – 156 to Afton Creek Cookie Monsters - 142
This matchup features the # 1 seed that is Ninth in the league in points scored and has lost 3 in a row versus a team that started 0-4 but won 4 of its last 6 with a nice weekly average. Even with a 10 point bonus for the Armadillos, could an upset be popping its head out? Let’s take a look.
QBs
Peyton Manning v. Ben Roethlisberger
The ultimate fantasy QB goes head to head with a signal caller who has been up and down all year. Manning ranks as the #1 at his position, but has slowed down as of late. No bonuses in his last 3 games, Manning now faces a Denver D/ST who can be thrown on. Can he show up big in Round1? Roethlisberger has been high (60 points) and low (16 points) and his matchup is sugary sweet versus an awful Cleveland team. Expect big things again.
Prediction – Manning gets back to normal with a bonus and a few tds. Guess what though? Big Ben doesn’t; not with bad weather, no Hines Ward and probably a huge lead by halftime.
RBs
Adrian Peterson v. DeAngelo Willams / Thomas Jones
When you only have 1 RB, it might as well be AP. Peterson has not been himself lately; he is only running on 3.0 yards per rush. Peterson will get to run on CIN D/ST who is without their top run stuffer. Good things should happen. Jones has been pretty good after people thought he might be part of a time share all year. He should be expected to hit a bonus or grab a TD each game. D Williams was hurt last week but is also can do some damage against the right team; NE D/ST can be run on.
Prediction – Peterson runs like a man possessed, bum ankle and all. He’ll get a bonus and a TD. Williams won’t get all the carries and it will show in the box score. Jones though should be able to showcase his skills since Sanchez wont there and TB sucks. He’ll get a bonus and some TDs as well.
WRs
Roy Williams/Nate Burleson/Pierre Garcon/Jeremy Maclin v. Roddy White/Devin Thomas/Mario Manningham
Though this group may not list any future Hall of Famers, it does boast a few players who have garnered a few big games and show up huge when the match up is right. The strength for the Armadillos is the strong play of Garcon, Manning’s new favorite target, and Burleson/Williams when they decide to show up. Given the matchups, all should get close to a bonus. Roddy White is forced to catch passes from Chris Redman, which doesn’t seem like a good way to score points, but it didn’t hurt last week. With a ATL team that is sure to be down and maybe without Burner Turner, White should expect another big game against the Big Easy (he scored 29 last time against them.) The rest of the WR corps for the Cookie Monsters is a crumbly mess; they get enough targets to be starter worthy, but who knows.
Prediction – The 4 pack of WRs for the Armadillos does some damage, with Garcon and grabbing the bonus and continuing to be a late season stud. Williams and Burleson come close to the bonus but things are too spread in their respective offensives to be that greedy. Roddy White will get the bonus, but the other WRs wont clear 15 points combined.
TEs
Visanthe Shiancoe v. Dallas Clark
When the season started, no one knew how to say “Visanthe Shiancoe” let alone think he’d be starting the playoffs. When he score, which is often, it’s awesome. When he doesn’t, it’s not much to look at. He gets red zone targets, and those are what truly matters for TEs as the bonus is hard to come by. What else can you say about D Clark? Probably the most consistent TE in the league, the only time he suffers is when teams make him priority #1 to stop, but that’s hard to do when the Colts have so many other weapons. He plays Denver this week, which I the second best team against TEs. So who will the battle?
Prediction – No reason Shiancoe shouldn’t get his TD and some catches, expect a game with points north of 12 points. Clark will get stymied by the Broncos D/ST and disappoint his owners in round 1; anything over 8 points would be “real nice, Clark” (make an okay hand signal when you say this.)
D/STs
Minnesota Vikings v. Cincin Bengals
A strange, but very important, battle since these teams plays each other this week. Minnesota has been great all year as well. They never had that AMAZING 40+ point game and have scored negative points twice as well, but no group can be counted on for a strong showing week in and week out like this squad. The Bengals have been a nice surprise this year, scoring 10+ points in 12 of 13 games. But without Odom and facing Farve’s crew on the turf, it might get ugly.
Prediction – Cincinnati keeps this one close and low scoring; until the 2nd half. And then things get ugly. Yards and points will pile up, though 2 picks from Farve seems likely too; expect around 12 points. Minnesota fumbles sacks and picks its way to big game at a home. Anything less than 18 points would be disappointing.
Ks
Ryan Longwell v Rob Bironas
An interesting starting note – Longwell will be kicking against Cincinnati who the Cookie Monsters will be deploying as their D/ST. Points for Longwell means less points for Bengals D/ST. Hard to know who to cheer for. Bironas has been a big benefactor when the Titans were on their winning streak. He’ll be good again as the Titans roll again this week
Prediction - Longwell should be good for at least 10 points, much to the dismay of the Cookie Monsters. And Bironas? Kicking against the Rams? Indoors? Expect 10 plus point as well.
Final prediction –
It’s gonna be close. Each team has studs hat need to show and question marks that need to be answered. It’s hard to bet against a team with Manning and AP, but the Monsters do have some studs that can ring your bell as well. In the end, a big game by the Vikings D/ST and a surprise big game from Burleson is the difference maker.
Amesbury Lake Armadillos – 156 to Afton Creek Cookie Monsters - 142
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Playoff gambling primer
CottonwoodHills Pricks (odds 2:1)
Pros: Drew Brees, solid RBs, melt-your-face #1 WR, better than average at each and every position
Cons: Lean VERY heavily on N.O Saints, awful bench players
Avalon Park Assassins (odds 2:5)
Pros: Chris Johnson, melt-your-face #1 WR, solid #2 QB,
Cons: D/ST decision each week, only 1 HC, shaky #2 RB
Team VOTE 4 PEDRO (odds 1:3)
Pros: Brady/Welker combo, melt-your-face TE, solid D/ST matchups
Cons: Shaky RB corps, big drop off with #3 WR
Wings of Pastrami (odds 1:4)
Pros: Explosive QB, 2 melt-your-face WRs, solid bench
Cons: No real #1 RB, average D/STs
Fighting Cocks (odds 1:5)
Pros: QB and 2 RBs that are peaking, #1 TE in the biz,
Cons: No backup QB, overall WR corps is average, HC choices are shaky
The Legend of Bo (odds 1:10)
Pros: Amazing QB, explosive #1 RB and #1 WR, great D/ST choices
Cons: TEs are average at best, kicker is not in top 12 points, a few hurt starters
Amesbury Lake Armadillos (odds 1:100)
Pros: Peyton Manning and AP, #1 D/ST, surprisingly solid role players
Cons: Could Peyton sit in week 15?, WRs are very hit or miss, no #2 RB
Cookie Monsters (odds 1:10000000000)
Pros: Farve playing All World, solid #1 RB and #1 WR, explosive TE
Cons: Less than average WR corps, no even decent #2 RB Weak HCs
Pros: Drew Brees, solid RBs, melt-your-face #1 WR, better than average at each and every position
Cons: Lean VERY heavily on N.O Saints, awful bench players
Avalon Park Assassins (odds 2:5)
Pros: Chris Johnson, melt-your-face #1 WR, solid #2 QB,
Cons: D/ST decision each week, only 1 HC, shaky #2 RB
Team VOTE 4 PEDRO (odds 1:3)
Pros: Brady/Welker combo, melt-your-face TE, solid D/ST matchups
Cons: Shaky RB corps, big drop off with #3 WR
Wings of Pastrami (odds 1:4)
Pros: Explosive QB, 2 melt-your-face WRs, solid bench
Cons: No real #1 RB, average D/STs
Fighting Cocks (odds 1:5)
Pros: QB and 2 RBs that are peaking, #1 TE in the biz,
Cons: No backup QB, overall WR corps is average, HC choices are shaky
The Legend of Bo (odds 1:10)
Pros: Amazing QB, explosive #1 RB and #1 WR, great D/ST choices
Cons: TEs are average at best, kicker is not in top 12 points, a few hurt starters
Amesbury Lake Armadillos (odds 1:100)
Pros: Peyton Manning and AP, #1 D/ST, surprisingly solid role players
Cons: Could Peyton sit in week 15?, WRs are very hit or miss, no #2 RB
Cookie Monsters (odds 1:10000000000)
Pros: Farve playing All World, solid #1 RB and #1 WR, explosive TE
Cons: Less than average WR corps, no even decent #2 RB Weak HCs
Round 1 Match up - Avalon Park Assassins vs. Fighting Cocks
Avalon Park Assassins vs. Fighting Cocks
APA is, for the 2nd straight season, the highest scoring team in the league. Leaning heavily on the Houston Texans, APA also gets to unleash Chris Johnson every week. Mix in a few other middle tier players, and it usually turned into a “W” each week. Fighting Cocks on the other hand, is in the bottom half of the league in scoring. Thanks to a weak division, his decent team was able to clinch a playoff birth early. With an average point difference of 20 points per game between them, will this be the most mismatched playoff game of the week? Let’s take a look.
QB
Matt Schaub v. Phillip Rivers
Schaub is a top 5 fantasy QB. With the ability to get 300 yards each week, Schaub has been great this year. And he hasn’t been hurt like other years. Until now that is. He is listed as “questionable” this week with a dislocated non-throwing wing. He has a juicy matchup versus SEATTLE D/ST – but will APA take the risk and start him, knowing he has a pretty good QB (McNabb) on the bench? The resulting difference could be the difference between victory and defeat. Rivers has been great this season too and is playing better and better each week. Versus a suspect DALLAS D/ST, he could/should very well explode again for 50+ points.
Prediction – Schuab plays, but not up to his usual level. Count on 30ish points, but nothing more. Rivers will again need to lead the Chargers to victory and we’ll get 300 yards and 3tds in the process.
RBs
Chris Johnson / Jonathon Stewart v. Cedric Benson / Jamaal Charles
CJohnson could probably be the real life MVP if not for the play of some QBs this season. He has simply been unstoppable. Now with 7 straight 100 yard games, anything less than 25 points has to be a disappointment. Stewart proved his worth this past week, but might be in timeshare next week. Whether or not DeAngelo Williams plays, will be a huge plus or minus for the Assassins. Cedric Benson is the surprise fantasy player of the year. Even after he got hurt 2 weeks ago, he came back strong. His matchup against the vaunted MINN D/ST does not inspire confidence though. He will probably struggle in Round 1. Charles has been surprisingly red hot the past 2 weeks and his matchup (versus worst in the league Buffalo) might be able to make up for whatever Benson does.
Prediction – Chris Johnson once again dominates, expect close to 40 points. With Williams back, Stewart is barely worth the start. Benson has a solid game, but no bonus or score. Charles helps though with a bonus and 2 TDs.
WRs
Andre Johnson/Reggie Wayne/Donald Driver v Marques Colston/ Derrick Mason/Steve Smith (NYG)
APA invested heavily in 2 stud WR during the draft; they haven’t disappointed at all. But lately, things have been a little down. Andre has slowed down in recent weeks, but should be able to smoke the smaller SEATTLE DBs. Wayne too has slowed down with just 160 yards total in the past 3 weeks. He might run into trouble again with Champ Bailey locking down on him. Driver can bring the goods, but has been inconsistent, still worth starting though. Colston has seen his role diminish in recent as Robert Meachem has had the most targets on the team in the past 4 weeks, but his matchup versus ATL D/ST is filthy good. Mason can get lucky and explode or can disappear; not what you want in a #2 WR. Same for Smith, who started the year great but has fallen back to earth slightly. Versus Philly isn’t the best way to get back to star status.
Prediction – Andre will be huge, Wayne will get blanketed and have a fourth average game in a row. Driver proves to be average once again. Colson will match whatever Johnson does, but the rest of the WR starters will be pretty flaccid for the Cocks.
TEs
Brent Celek v. Vernon Davis
APA took a calculated risk when he didn’t drat a TE until late. He was rewarded with Celek, who has been solid, if not great from week to week. It wont matter who throws him the ball (evident by his Vick TD last week), Celek should once again be really good against the NYG; he laws last time (14 points.)Vernon Davis has surprised everyone by turning into the #1 TE in the league. Davis has four 25+ point games in his last seven and another big game is not of the question versus an ARI D/ST that is horrible against TEs.
Prediction – Both TEs bring their A” game, Davis will probably get an “A+” though. Expect a TD from both and a bonus from one.
D/ST
Tenn Titans v. Philly Eagles
4 months ago starting a TENN D/ST was a no brainer. 2 months ago, you would have laughed at someone who started them. Now? Well, it’s not the worst thing in the world. Especially against the laughable offense of the St. Louis Rams. APA has some other options (Colts, Giants, Bucs) but using Titans probably has the most upside. The Eagles allow some points, but also sack the QB and seem to get fumbles and INTs in every game. The also have 4 D/ST TDs this year. Facing a newly revived NYG team, they’ll need all the extra little things they can get.
Prediction – TENN has a great matchup, but still isn’t back to the dominate team they once were – expect a mediocre game; maybe 12 points. Philly is gonna get thiers- count a few sacks and at least 1 Eli Manning turnover; 15 points.
Kickers –
Shayne Graham v. Ryan Succop
Simply put, Graham sucked earlier in the year. After back to back great games and kicking indoors versus a MINN D/ST that will stymie some Bengals drives, he should be at least good once again. Succop kicks for the Chiefs, so it’s hard to count on anything great. But against a Buffalo team, he should at least be good.
Prediction – Graham will continue his hot streak with double digit points. Succop surprises and get 10 points as well.
FINAL PREDICTION – The Assassins’ are not stealthy; you know what you are going get – a score of 160+. Though their team has some tough matchups this week, you shouldn’t expect less. Fighting Cocks will need all things to come together for a victory to be his. I don’t see it happening. Avalon Park Assassins – 178 to Fighting Cocks - 149
APA is, for the 2nd straight season, the highest scoring team in the league. Leaning heavily on the Houston Texans, APA also gets to unleash Chris Johnson every week. Mix in a few other middle tier players, and it usually turned into a “W” each week. Fighting Cocks on the other hand, is in the bottom half of the league in scoring. Thanks to a weak division, his decent team was able to clinch a playoff birth early. With an average point difference of 20 points per game between them, will this be the most mismatched playoff game of the week? Let’s take a look.
QB
Matt Schaub v. Phillip Rivers
Schaub is a top 5 fantasy QB. With the ability to get 300 yards each week, Schaub has been great this year. And he hasn’t been hurt like other years. Until now that is. He is listed as “questionable” this week with a dislocated non-throwing wing. He has a juicy matchup versus SEATTLE D/ST – but will APA take the risk and start him, knowing he has a pretty good QB (McNabb) on the bench? The resulting difference could be the difference between victory and defeat. Rivers has been great this season too and is playing better and better each week. Versus a suspect DALLAS D/ST, he could/should very well explode again for 50+ points.
Prediction – Schuab plays, but not up to his usual level. Count on 30ish points, but nothing more. Rivers will again need to lead the Chargers to victory and we’ll get 300 yards and 3tds in the process.
RBs
Chris Johnson / Jonathon Stewart v. Cedric Benson / Jamaal Charles
CJohnson could probably be the real life MVP if not for the play of some QBs this season. He has simply been unstoppable. Now with 7 straight 100 yard games, anything less than 25 points has to be a disappointment. Stewart proved his worth this past week, but might be in timeshare next week. Whether or not DeAngelo Williams plays, will be a huge plus or minus for the Assassins. Cedric Benson is the surprise fantasy player of the year. Even after he got hurt 2 weeks ago, he came back strong. His matchup against the vaunted MINN D/ST does not inspire confidence though. He will probably struggle in Round 1. Charles has been surprisingly red hot the past 2 weeks and his matchup (versus worst in the league Buffalo) might be able to make up for whatever Benson does.
Prediction – Chris Johnson once again dominates, expect close to 40 points. With Williams back, Stewart is barely worth the start. Benson has a solid game, but no bonus or score. Charles helps though with a bonus and 2 TDs.
WRs
Andre Johnson/Reggie Wayne/Donald Driver v Marques Colston/ Derrick Mason/Steve Smith (NYG)
APA invested heavily in 2 stud WR during the draft; they haven’t disappointed at all. But lately, things have been a little down. Andre has slowed down in recent weeks, but should be able to smoke the smaller SEATTLE DBs. Wayne too has slowed down with just 160 yards total in the past 3 weeks. He might run into trouble again with Champ Bailey locking down on him. Driver can bring the goods, but has been inconsistent, still worth starting though. Colston has seen his role diminish in recent as Robert Meachem has had the most targets on the team in the past 4 weeks, but his matchup versus ATL D/ST is filthy good. Mason can get lucky and explode or can disappear; not what you want in a #2 WR. Same for Smith, who started the year great but has fallen back to earth slightly. Versus Philly isn’t the best way to get back to star status.
Prediction – Andre will be huge, Wayne will get blanketed and have a fourth average game in a row. Driver proves to be average once again. Colson will match whatever Johnson does, but the rest of the WR starters will be pretty flaccid for the Cocks.
TEs
Brent Celek v. Vernon Davis
APA took a calculated risk when he didn’t drat a TE until late. He was rewarded with Celek, who has been solid, if not great from week to week. It wont matter who throws him the ball (evident by his Vick TD last week), Celek should once again be really good against the NYG; he laws last time (14 points.)Vernon Davis has surprised everyone by turning into the #1 TE in the league. Davis has four 25+ point games in his last seven and another big game is not of the question versus an ARI D/ST that is horrible against TEs.
Prediction – Both TEs bring their A” game, Davis will probably get an “A+” though. Expect a TD from both and a bonus from one.
D/ST
Tenn Titans v. Philly Eagles
4 months ago starting a TENN D/ST was a no brainer. 2 months ago, you would have laughed at someone who started them. Now? Well, it’s not the worst thing in the world. Especially against the laughable offense of the St. Louis Rams. APA has some other options (Colts, Giants, Bucs) but using Titans probably has the most upside. The Eagles allow some points, but also sack the QB and seem to get fumbles and INTs in every game. The also have 4 D/ST TDs this year. Facing a newly revived NYG team, they’ll need all the extra little things they can get.
Prediction – TENN has a great matchup, but still isn’t back to the dominate team they once were – expect a mediocre game; maybe 12 points. Philly is gonna get thiers- count a few sacks and at least 1 Eli Manning turnover; 15 points.
Kickers –
Shayne Graham v. Ryan Succop
Simply put, Graham sucked earlier in the year. After back to back great games and kicking indoors versus a MINN D/ST that will stymie some Bengals drives, he should be at least good once again. Succop kicks for the Chiefs, so it’s hard to count on anything great. But against a Buffalo team, he should at least be good.
Prediction – Graham will continue his hot streak with double digit points. Succop surprises and get 10 points as well.
FINAL PREDICTION – The Assassins’ are not stealthy; you know what you are going get – a score of 160+. Though their team has some tough matchups this week, you shouldn’t expect less. Fighting Cocks will need all things to come together for a victory to be his. I don’t see it happening. Avalon Park Assassins – 178 to Fighting Cocks - 149
Round 1 Match up - Team Vote 4 Pedro VS. Legend of Bo
Team Vote 4 Pedro VS. Legend of Bo
This matchup features the league’s surprisingly only 10 win team versus a high scoring, though “middle of the pack” record-wise team. Both teams have could be considered inconsistent scorers (they both have 4 games under 120 points) but have shown the ability to have weeks where it all comes together with big 200 point weeks. So which team will show up in round 1 of the playoffs?
QBs
Tom Brady v. Aaron Rogers
The marquee match up in this battle, both teams depend on their stud QB to get them to big scores each week. Ranked #3 (Rodgers) and #4 (Brady), if one of these players doesn’t get to the bonus AND doesn’t get 2-3 TDs, it will be a disappointment and might spell doom for their owner. Brady might be pissed after these past few weeks and make a weak Carolina D/ST pay big. Rodgers faces a banged up CHI D/ST at home in the cold.
Prediction – Both QBs score big, at least 40+, but Brady’s payday will be bigger.
RBs
Marion Barber/Knowshon Moreno v. Mo Jones Drew/LeSean McCoy
No match up of RBs might be more fun to say. These guys all sound like made up players from “Breakdance Fest 1987.” But the reality is only 1 of them is a difference maker – MJD. Jones Drew has been a slump lately (nothing over 76 yards in the past 3 weeks) after reeling off some biggies. He’ll need to step up against a Miami team that ranks in top half of rush defense. McCoy won’t be expected to do more than get 7-11 points. Speaking of expectations, Team Vote 4 Pedro can’t expect much from either Barber or Moreno; neither have busted for the bonus since week 2. Moreno has gotten goal line touches and converted lately, but anything over 10 points for either back is gravy.
Prediction – MJD has a solid game with a TD, but won’t get the bonus. All the other backs do as expected – not much.
WRs
Wes Welker/Ochocino Johnson/Chris Chambers V.A Boldin/DeSean Jackson/Steve Smith
Both teams have a solid group of wide outs. Welker has been a tear lately (80+ yards in 5 of 6 games) and “85” and Chambers have had a little resurgence as well. Boldin has shown no ill effects from his injury early in the year and has been better than solid. DJAX could have 2 catches in a game but they both could be 50 yards +. The wild card here is Steve Smith. L of B traded for him in week 5 hoping for big things; they never came. Smith has yet to hit the bonus or a 20 point game since week 2. But he is still Steve Smith – the potential is ALWAYS there. But having Matt Moore doesn’t help. All that said, really all 6 of these WRs can disappear and do nothing in any given week. Who shows up in Round 1 is gonna be a huge question.
Prediction – Welker and Boldin, with great matchups, will get bonuses. Ochocinco and DeSean will have a solid games, albeit no bonuses, and much better than the rest of the group.
TE
Antonio Gates v. Zach Miller
Ahhh, the great difference maker. This position is the most lopsided in this matchup. Gates has simply exploded lately, with two big games. Miller gets all game what Gates does in a half. Neither player has an amazing matchup. But Gates doesn’t need one.
Prediction – Gates has another bonus game with a TD. Miller won’t clear 5 points.
D/ST
Baltimore Ravens v. Green Bay Packers
Both teams have flipped and flopped their D/STs in recent weeks. But week 14 has good match ups for both owners. Baltimore is facing a Detroit team that, while it can be explosive, has QB issues and no running game. Expect the Ravens to feast on that combo but to also allow some long TDs. The Packers have been hurting but can still force turnovers and sacks, which add up fast.
Prediction – Ravens will get scored on, but will force INTs and fumbles from whoever is behind the center in Detroit. Don’t expect a classic Ravens game with 20+ D/ST points, but somewhere in the teens. Packers will get INTs from Jay Cutler, but will also get points and yards piled on them. Anything over 15 would be great.
Kickers
Mason Crosby v. Robbie Gould
Bing Crosby’s kid is usually a great option, but at Chicago, in December, could be rough. Robbie Gould won’t have it any easy. But he might get fewer chances too.
Prediction – Crosby gets more points; think 10+, thanks to Green Bay team that will get many opportunities thanks to some INTs. Gould should be average, around 7 points.
FINAL PREDICTION – Both teams have enough star players not to be let down in total points. The TEs are such a HUGE disparity that it might very well be the difference. With the 10 point bonus in their bag of tricks as well, Team Vote 4 Pedro will punch their ticket to the next round. Team Vote 4 Pedro – 165 to Legend of Bo – 144
Avalon Park Assassins vs. Fighting Cocks
APA is, for the 2nd straight season, the highest scoring team in the league. Leaning heavily on the Houston Texans, APA also gets to unleash Chris Johnson every week. Mix in a few other middle tier players, and it usually turned into a “W” each week. Fighting Cocks on the other hand, is in the bottom half of the league in scoring. Thanks to a weak division, his decent team was able to clinch a playoff birth early. With an average point difference of 20 points per game between them, will this be the most mismatched playoff game of the week? Let’s take a look.
This matchup features the league’s surprisingly only 10 win team versus a high scoring, though “middle of the pack” record-wise team. Both teams have could be considered inconsistent scorers (they both have 4 games under 120 points) but have shown the ability to have weeks where it all comes together with big 200 point weeks. So which team will show up in round 1 of the playoffs?
QBs
Tom Brady v. Aaron Rogers
The marquee match up in this battle, both teams depend on their stud QB to get them to big scores each week. Ranked #3 (Rodgers) and #4 (Brady), if one of these players doesn’t get to the bonus AND doesn’t get 2-3 TDs, it will be a disappointment and might spell doom for their owner. Brady might be pissed after these past few weeks and make a weak Carolina D/ST pay big. Rodgers faces a banged up CHI D/ST at home in the cold.
Prediction – Both QBs score big, at least 40+, but Brady’s payday will be bigger.
RBs
Marion Barber/Knowshon Moreno v. Mo Jones Drew/LeSean McCoy
No match up of RBs might be more fun to say. These guys all sound like made up players from “Breakdance Fest 1987.” But the reality is only 1 of them is a difference maker – MJD. Jones Drew has been a slump lately (nothing over 76 yards in the past 3 weeks) after reeling off some biggies. He’ll need to step up against a Miami team that ranks in top half of rush defense. McCoy won’t be expected to do more than get 7-11 points. Speaking of expectations, Team Vote 4 Pedro can’t expect much from either Barber or Moreno; neither have busted for the bonus since week 2. Moreno has gotten goal line touches and converted lately, but anything over 10 points for either back is gravy.
Prediction – MJD has a solid game with a TD, but won’t get the bonus. All the other backs do as expected – not much.
WRs
Wes Welker/Ochocino Johnson/Chris Chambers V.A Boldin/DeSean Jackson/Steve Smith
Both teams have a solid group of wide outs. Welker has been a tear lately (80+ yards in 5 of 6 games) and “85” and Chambers have had a little resurgence as well. Boldin has shown no ill effects from his injury early in the year and has been better than solid. DJAX could have 2 catches in a game but they both could be 50 yards +. The wild card here is Steve Smith. L of B traded for him in week 5 hoping for big things; they never came. Smith has yet to hit the bonus or a 20 point game since week 2. But he is still Steve Smith – the potential is ALWAYS there. But having Matt Moore doesn’t help. All that said, really all 6 of these WRs can disappear and do nothing in any given week. Who shows up in Round 1 is gonna be a huge question.
Prediction – Welker and Boldin, with great matchups, will get bonuses. Ochocinco and DeSean will have a solid games, albeit no bonuses, and much better than the rest of the group.
TE
Antonio Gates v. Zach Miller
Ahhh, the great difference maker. This position is the most lopsided in this matchup. Gates has simply exploded lately, with two big games. Miller gets all game what Gates does in a half. Neither player has an amazing matchup. But Gates doesn’t need one.
Prediction – Gates has another bonus game with a TD. Miller won’t clear 5 points.
D/ST
Baltimore Ravens v. Green Bay Packers
Both teams have flipped and flopped their D/STs in recent weeks. But week 14 has good match ups for both owners. Baltimore is facing a Detroit team that, while it can be explosive, has QB issues and no running game. Expect the Ravens to feast on that combo but to also allow some long TDs. The Packers have been hurting but can still force turnovers and sacks, which add up fast.
Prediction – Ravens will get scored on, but will force INTs and fumbles from whoever is behind the center in Detroit. Don’t expect a classic Ravens game with 20+ D/ST points, but somewhere in the teens. Packers will get INTs from Jay Cutler, but will also get points and yards piled on them. Anything over 15 would be great.
Kickers
Mason Crosby v. Robbie Gould
Bing Crosby’s kid is usually a great option, but at Chicago, in December, could be rough. Robbie Gould won’t have it any easy. But he might get fewer chances too.
Prediction – Crosby gets more points; think 10+, thanks to Green Bay team that will get many opportunities thanks to some INTs. Gould should be average, around 7 points.
FINAL PREDICTION – Both teams have enough star players not to be let down in total points. The TEs are such a HUGE disparity that it might very well be the difference. With the 10 point bonus in their bag of tricks as well, Team Vote 4 Pedro will punch their ticket to the next round. Team Vote 4 Pedro – 165 to Legend of Bo – 144
Avalon Park Assassins vs. Fighting Cocks
APA is, for the 2nd straight season, the highest scoring team in the league. Leaning heavily on the Houston Texans, APA also gets to unleash Chris Johnson every week. Mix in a few other middle tier players, and it usually turned into a “W” each week. Fighting Cocks on the other hand, is in the bottom half of the league in scoring. Thanks to a weak division, his decent team was able to clinch a playoff birth early. With an average point difference of 20 points per game between them, will this be the most mismatched playoff game of the week? Let’s take a look.
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