Fantasy Football Player's Edge

August 31, 2008

The key to winning your league revolves around
matchups and the injury status of key players.
The Player's Edge is the best source for timely
and comprehensive information and advise on
who to start, who to sit and why.


Week 1 News: (Daily Updates)

Sunday:

Kurt Warner has been anointed the starter for week
1 for Arizona. He has a nice matchup vs. the 49ers.

Good News for Steven Jackson/Marc Bulger owners
as Orlando Pace willing be anchoring the Rams O line
on opening day.

Jamal Lewis is expected to practice next week and start
for the Browns against the Cowboys.

Darren McFadden is #2 on the Raiders RB depth chart
behind Fargas. Merely a formality as McFadden will be
the featured back this season.

Steve Slaton continues to move up on the Texans depth
chart at RB. Chris Brown has been placed on the IR and is
done for the season leaving only the brittle Ahman Green
for Slaton to climb over with Chris Taylor still in the mix.
Additionally, the Texans plan on only spot playing Green
in game 1 action.

Rudi Johnson has been cut so Chris Perry will assume
the starting running back duties for the Bengals.

Ravens super safety Ed Reed will miss the opener due to
a pinched nerve. Carson Palmer will have more latitude
with the ball hawking Reed sidelined.


Week 1 Injury Report: (Tues/Thur/Sat/Sun)

-nothing to report-


1. QB's: Matchups

The Standard: 300 yards, 2 TD, 0 Int = 20 points

Favorable:

Brett Favre- begins the new era vs. a soft Miami pass D.
The Dolphins allowed 25 TD's and over 7 yards per throw
to opposing passing offenses in 2007. Favre historically has
performed well in warm weather with a 95.3 passer rating
and in September with a 90 QB rating. His career rating is
85.7

Projection: 310 yards, 2 TD's and 2 picks. (18 pts)

Kurt Warner- rolls into San Francisco to face a secondary
that was relatively porous in 2007 allowing a generous 6.7
yards per pass attempt and 23 scores. Warner has feasted
on the 49ers in the past establishing a QB rating of 98.8 with
19 touchdowns and 10 interceptions over the course of 10
games including a 484 yard, 2 touchdown effort last year in
a 37-31 loss in the desert.

Projection: 320 yards, 2 TD's, 2 Int. (18 pts)

Jeff Garcia- will likely have his best game of the season vs.
New Orleans which allowed 29 scores and yielded a league
high 7.5 yards per attempt last season. Has a career passer
rating vs. the Saints of 104.4 in 6 games.

Projection: 220 yards, 2 TD's, 1 Int. (16 pts)

Unfavorable:

David Garrard- the Titans played the pass extremely
well last season allowing only 5.7 yards per attempt. They
were vulnerable in the red zone yielding 21 scores in 2007.
This game shapes up to be a grinder with each team looking
to assert their will on the other on the ground. His QB score
against the Titans in 9 games is a paltry 75.1.

Projection: 180 yards, 1 TD, 1 Int. (12 pts)

Eli Manning- back to earth for Eli against the Redskins.
Washington's secondary was rock solid in 2007 holding
opposing signal callers to a modest 5.7 yards per attempt
belying the 20 TD's they allowed. The Giants will show a
balanced attack in a low scoring 2008 NFL opener. Eli, on
balance, struggles vs the Redskins with a 66.3 QB rating.

Projection: 190 yards, 1 TD , 2 Int. (11 pts)

Matt Schaub- will have a solid 2008 if he stays healthy
but has a tough opener in Pittsburgh. The Steelers D
stops everything and was the stingiest group allowing only
5.3 yards per attempt in 07. Surprisingly they allowed an
above average 21 scores through the air. Schaub seems
to struggle outdoors and away from home with a 75.7 and
73.3 ratings outdoors and away respectively. In both of
these scenarios he has thrown more interceptions than
touchdowns. 70% of his career fumbles occur early in the
season.

Projection: 260 yards, 1 TD, 3 Int, 1 Fumble. (11 pts)


2. RB's: Matchups (starting a #2)

The Standard: 110 yards rush, 30 yards rec, 1 TD = 20 pts

Favorable:

Selvin Young- has a favorable matchup against the
most porous run defense in 2007. The Raiders gave
opposing plowshares almost 5 yards per carry and an
NFL worst 1.6 touchdowns per game. Young averaged
7.1 yards per carry against Oakland last season.

Projection: 110 rush yards, 50 receiving yards. (16 pts)

Thomas Jones- the Dolphins are likely to be amped
to pass protect vs. Favre. Miami's front seven allowed
4.6 yards per carry and a dreadful 17 TD's on the ground
over the course of the 2007 campaign. Jones averaged
93 yards per game vs. the Dolphins with a score in 2
meetings in 2007.

Projection: 80 rush yards and a score. (14 pts)

Darren McFadden- makes his debut in an anticipated
timeshare with Fargas. Look for the rookie to get hot as
Denver struggles against the run allowing a generous 4.5
yards per carry and 14 scores in 2007. He will get 15+
touches.

Projection: 120 total yards. (12 pts)

Unfavorable: (sitting a #2)

Chris Perry- his NFL 1st start will be a bit nightmarish
against the Ravens maneaters. The were the only defense
to allow less than 3 yards per carry last season. He's had
5 carries against the Ravens for 5 yards in his career.

Projection: 30 yards rushing, 40 yards receiving. (7 pts)

Edgerrin James- faces a surprisingly tough 49er front 7
in the opener which allowed only 3.7 yards per carry and
9 scores. James may lose touches and goal line carries to
Tim Hightower and is risky until Whisenhunt shows
his hand. Edgerrin opened the 2007 season with 92 yards
on 26 carries (3.5 ypc) in San Francisco last season.

Projection: 60 yards rushing, 20 yards receiving. (8 pts)

Ryan Grant- picked the wrong spot to return to action in
2008. Minnesota is stout up front and Grant is likely to
be a little rusty after missing all of the preseason. Abused
the vaunted Vikings run defense for 5 yards per carry last
season so they'll be looking to pay him back.

Projection: 40 yards rushing, 40 receiving. (8 pts)


3. WR's: Matchups

The Standard: 80 yards, 1 TD = 14 points

Favorable: (starting a #3)

Jericho Cotchery- will establish that he's actually a
#2. Miami's backline is vulnerable yielding 25 TD's.
Had 28 catches for 400 yards over 4 games to end last
season with Pennington and Clemens.

Projection: 120 yards, 1 TD. (18 pts)

DeSean Jackson- will be a favorite target for McNabb
by default as Kevin Curtis and Reggie Brown are out
for week 1. The rookie had a solid preseason and is also a
threat to score on special teams as a returner. The Rams
offer very little resistance in the passing game allowing
opponents 6.8 yards per attempt and 22 touchdowns in
the 2007 campaign.

Projection: 80 yards, 1 TD (14 pts)

Ted Ginn Jr.- targeted early Pennington. The Jets
can be had with the short game allowing 200 yards per
game on 29 pass attempts per game. Ginn ended last
season with 7 catches and a score vs. the Bengals.

Projection: 100 yards. (10 pts)

Unfavorable: (sitting a #3)

Dwayne Bowe- will test New England's revamped
secondary to no avail as Croyle misfires under pressure.
Caught only 8 passes for 112 yards during Croyle's last
3 games including a season ending 1 ball for 13 yards vs.
the Jets.

Projection: 40 yards. (4 pts)

Bernard Berrian- limited action during the preseason
due to a turf toe. Starting QB Tarvaris Jackson also
missed significant exhibition snaps with a sore quad.
Berrian caught 3 balls for 27 yards in 2 games vs. the
Packers last season. Nothing points to a solid effort.

Projection: 40 yards. (4 pts)

Lee Evans- Seahawks allowed the fewest scores in 2007
with 11. Athletic and active Seattle front seven will harass
Edwards all day if he has to throw. Evans had only 8 balls
for 81 yards over the last 3 games in 2007.

Projection: 60 yards (6 pts)


4. TE's: Matchups

The Standard- 40 yards, .3 TD = 6 points

Favorable:

L. J. Smith- solid TE struggles with injuries but is seemingly
healthy for the opener. The Rams linebackers/safeties can be
had. Typically, has his best games at home in September.

Projection: 60 yards, TD. (12 pts)

Tony Scheffler- solid corners, no Marshall, will force Cutler
to look for big Tony early and often against the Raiders. Had
16 catches for 189 yards and 2 scores over the last 3 games of
2007.

Projection: 60 yards, TD. (12 pts)

Zach Miller- Denver will want to force Russell to pass by
stopping McFadden/Fargas. That means they'll have to use
a safety and pinch the linebackers. Miller should be open all
afternoon. Had 6 catches for 76 yards and a touchdown in 2
games vs. the Broncos and caught 8 balls for 84 yards in
Russell's debut in the last game of 2007.

Projection: 60 yards, TD. (12 pts)

Unfavorable:

Owen Daniels- Schaub will search for the soft spots in the
Steelers pass defense but won't find them over the middle,
especially, if Polamalu is right. Finished the 2007 campaign
with only 3 catches for 29 yards over the final 2 games.

Projection: 30 yards. (3 points)

Jeremy Shockey- will be challenged by Tampa's active
linebackers (Cato June) and hard hitting safety Jermaine
Phillips. Had 3 catches for 15 yards vs the Bucs in 2006.

Projection: 40 yards. (4 pts)

Tony Gonzalez- will be Croyle's primary target in a very
short passing game against New England. He'll have chances
but will return to Kansas City frustrated. Gonzalez has 66
career touchdowns with only 1 vs. the Patriots in 6 games.

Projection: 60 yards. (6 pts)


5. K's: Matchups

The Standard- 2 FG's, 1/40+, 3 Pat's = 10 points

Favorable:

Martin Gramatica- should have several attempts as
Brees moves the Saints freely between the 20's. Wants
to kick well against the coach who gave up on him.

Projection: 3 FG's, 2/40+, 2 PAT's. (13 pts)

Jason Elam- the Lions will allow the Falcons access
to their half of the field.

Projection: 3 FG's, 1/40+, 1 PAT. (11 pts)

David Akers- The Eagles should score plenty vs. the
Rams.

Projection: 2 FG's, 1/40+, 4 PAT's. (11 pts)

Unfavorable:

Robby Gould- the Bears offense is likely to suffer many
3 and outs vs. the Colts.

Projection: 1 FG, 1 PAT. (4 pts)

John Kasay- Carolina could fall behind early against an
improved Chargers offense taking field goals off the table
in the 2nd half.

Projection: 1 FG, 2 PAT's. (5 pts)

Matt Bryant- has struggled during the preseason going 7/12.

Projection: 1 FG, 3 PAT's. (6 pts)


6. DEF's: Matchups

The Standard- 13 points allowed, 3 turnovers, 2 sacks = 12 pts

Favorable:

New England- could have an outsized performance vs. an
inexperienced Brody Croyle. Herm Edwards will take the
air out of the ball for as long as possible with Larry Johnson
but New England will open up an early lead and force his
hand. N.E. allowed a scant 15.9 points and scored 6 defensive
TD's in 2007. Only 2 offenses were more anemic than K.C.
last season who averaged about 14 points and 281 yards per
game.

Projection: 6 points, 4 turnovers, 6 sacks. (21 pts)

Indianapolis- will expose every flaw in the Bears attack.
Manning should have the Colts scoring early forcing the
Bears to play reckless on offense which is not their Forte.
The young RB will learn the hard way on Sunday. The Colts
were stingy last season allowing about 16 points and only 275
yards per game and face Kyle Orton who had a 73.9 passer
rating during his 3 starts at the end of 2007.

Projection: 10 points, 3 turnovers, 4 sacks. (14 pts)

Jacksonville- will face a conservative Titans offense in a low
scoring affair. Vince Young has a QB rating of 59.6 with 3 picks
against the Jaguars thus far in his career.

Projection: 10 points, 3 turnovers, 2 sacks. (12 pts)


Unfavorable:

Chicago- the Colts may play conservatively to safeguard
Peyton but he'll still have easy throws against a soft pass
defense that allowed a generous 7.1 yards per attempt.

Projection: 31 points, 1 turnover, 0 sacks. (2 pts)

Carolina- San Diego is improved with Chambers and
the return of Antonio Gates. They should be poised to
start quickly this season. The Carolina defense was very
average last season allowing 22 points and 325 yards per
game.

Projection: 28 points, 2 turnovers, 2 sacks. (6 pts)

Tampa Bay- solid defense has tough opener vs the high
flying Saints. The Buccaneers defense scored 7 and 6
points respectively in 2 games vs. New Orleans in 2007.

Projection: 23 points, 2 turnovers, 1 sack. (6 pts)


8. League Play: (tracks the weekly activity of a team
in a public league.) -coming Tuesday-

PE (Player's Edge)----------OP (Weekly Opponent)

QB:
RB:
RB:
WR:
WR:
WR:
TE:
K:
DEF:

RES:
RES:
RES:
RES:
RES:
RES:

Final Score:

Transactions:

Strategy:

-week 1 battle plan on Wednesday-

Game Keys:

-updated daily after Thur/Sun/Mon games-

Final Thoughts:

The Player's Edge participates in many leagues but elected
to follow a team in a Public League to better approximate what
might be faced by a wide majority of players that use the Edge
daily. The team plays in a standard scoring format of 25 yards
per point/4 points per TD/ -1 Int for QB's and 10 yards/6 for
TD/-2 fumbles for RB/WR/TE. Kickers, 3/4/5 points for 1-30,
40, 50+ yard field goals respectively. Defenses, 10 for shutout
to 0 for 34+ points allowed and 2 points for fumbles, interception
a 1 point per sack. 6 points for defensive scores. PE drafted 6th in
a 10 team format. This league will followed throughout the entire
2008 fantasy campaign.

All Done!

Site Updated 10:00 EST Daily

Fantasy Football Player's Edge

August 30, 2008

2008 Fantasy Draft Preview (final)

Regular Season Site available August 31st.

The following rankings are based on a 10 team league using a
scoring format of 25 yards per point and 4 points per TD with
a 1 point deduction for interceptions and a 2 point deduction
for fumbles for QB's. RB/WR/TE receive 1 point per 10 yards
and 6 points per touchdown minus 2 points per fumble. Kickers
will receive 3, 4, 5 points respectively for 1-30, 40 and 50/over
yard field goals and 1 point for PAT's. Defenses will be awarded
2 points for safeties, fumble recoveries, interceptions and blocked
kicks. Each sack will earn 1 point. Additionally, points will accrue
for points allowed to opponents starting at 10 for a shutout to a
-4 for a blowout against the unit.

Each team will start 1 QB, 2 RB's, 3 WR's, 1 TE, 1 K, 1 Defense
and 6 reserves from any group.

The Rankings

Quarterbacks: Rankings

1. Tom Brady- has all his weapons available
2. Peyton Manning- Marvin's return a boost
3. Drew Brees- has to get off to a better start
4. Tony Romo- could easily move up to #2
5. Carson Palmer- better than last year.
6. Derek Anderson- better than last year
7. Donovan McNabb- stays healthy he's #5
8. Ben Rothlisberger- was 4th last year
9. Jay Cutler- Marshall out for 2 games
10. Marc Bulger- came up big in preseason #3
11. Matt Schaub- has weapons
12. David Garrard- McNabb-lite.
13. Philip Rivers- might surprise
14. Brett Favre- we'll see
15. Matt Hasselbeck- needs Branch

Others: E. Manning, Kitna, Young, Campbell,
Warner, Delhomme, Garcia.

Steals: Garrard, Rivers.

Late Breaking News: Vince Young is nursing
a bruised hand from Thursday's action. The injury
had nothing to do with his subpar performances
throughout the preseason.

Preseason Week 4/ Grades-QB:

A:
A. Rodgers- 1/1, 68, TD
M. Leinart- 10/14, 177, TD
K. Warner- 4/4, 48

B:
D. Garrard- 5/8, 58, TD/Int
B. Quinn- 6/8, 63
B. Croyle- 3/4, 42

C:
J. Flacco- 8/13, 72

D:
V. Young- 13/27, 134, 3 rushes/57

F:
M. Ryan- 2/7, 17
K. Orton- 2/4, 25, Int

Comments: Matt Leinart is still in the hunt for
the QB job in Arizona but look for Kurt Warner
to be tabbed for week 1.


Running Backs: Rankings

1. LaDainian Tomlinson- 1
2. Adrian Peterson- 1A
3. Steven Jackson- if he signs on.
4. Joseph Addai- very consistent
5. Brian Westbrook- amazing/injury risk
6. Frank Gore- look for a rebound w/Martz
7. Marion Barber- he's the man
8. Larry Johnson- still has the juice
9. Jamal Lewis- fantastic 2007
10. Clinton Portis- could easily move up
11. Marshawn Lynch- nice rookie season
12. Michael Turner- if Atlanta can block
13. Ryan Grant- marked man w/Rodgers
14. Darren McFadden- could easily move up
15. Maurice-Jones Drew- moves up with lead role.
16. Earnest Graham- solid #2 RB
17. Willis McGahee- new offense/knee issues
18. Brandon Jacobs- Droughns/Bradshaw
19. Edgerrin James- will be available rd. 3/4
20. Ricky Williams- moving up fast
21. Willie Parker- moves up w/goal line touches
22. Chris Perry- has to fend off Rudi Johnson
23. LenDale White- plowshare is useful
24. Reggie Bush- runs scared/receptions yards useful
25. Laurence Maroney- underutilized by Belichick

Others: T. Jones, J. Stewart/Williams, Forte/
K. Jones, S. Young/A. Hall, K. Smith, Taylor,
J. Jones/Morris, Fargas, C. Johnson, C. Brown
/Slaton/Green, McAllister/P. Thomas, R. Brown
L. Jordan, R. Johnson, Bradshaw, Hightower,
R. Rice, Sproles.

Steals: C. Perry, J. Jones, Slaton, K. Jones.

Late Breaking News: Darren McFadden is #2 on the
Raiders depth chart. He'll be #1 on the field.

Preseason Week 4/Grades-RB: (excludes top 10)

A:
R. Brown- 12/47, TD
R. Rice- 7/35, rec 2/6
W. Parker- 4/34
B. Jacobs- 3/32
L. Jordan- 6/27, rec 1/23
D. McFadden- 4/50, rec 1/0
T. J. Duckett- 11/71, 2 TD's, rec 2/15

B:
M. Turner- 4/18
M. Forte- 2/8, rec 1/17

C:
R. Mendenhall- 21/79, fumble
C. Perry- 9/20, TD
L. White- 16/54
C. Johnson- 8/24

D:
A. Bradshaw- 12/30, rec 1/8
D. McAllister- 11/30, rec 2/2

F:
L. Maroney- 4/5
T. Hightower- 4/4
E. James- 1/ -5

Comments: McFadden continues to impress with
50 yards in 4 carries against Seattle's 1st team defense.
Edgerrin James and Tim Hightower finished the
preseason poorly.


Wide Receivers: Rankings

1. Randy Moss- comparable to 2007
2. Terrell Owens- trails only Moss
3. Reggie Wayne- elite last season
4. Larry Fitzgerald- gets better in 08
5. Braylon Edwards- was 3rd last season
6. Brandon Marshall- big time player
7. Marques Colston- Brees go to WR
8. T.J. Houshmandzadeh- money
9. Andre Johnson- needs to stay healthy
10. Steve Smith- misses 2 starts
11. Torry Holt- not done yet
12. Plaxico Burress- ankle has improved
13. Anquan Boldin- great #2
14. Wes Welker- slot supreme
15. Chad Johnson- labrum tear
16. Marvin Harrison- Marv at 16
17. Santonio Holmes- could move up
18. Calvin Johnson- big time upside
19. Greg Jennings- Rodgers prime target
20. Roy Williams- always disappoints
21. Chris Chambers- enigmatic
22. Lee Evans- needs chemistry w/Edwards
23. Hines Ward- steady
24. Roddy White- Redman/Ryan inhibitors
25. Jericho Cotchery- nice #3
26. Dwayne Bowe- lacks a QB
27. Anthony Gonzalez- could easily move up
28. Vincent Jackson- big target, soft hands
29. Devin Hester- moves way up as a #1 WR.
30. Santana Moss- inconsistent
31. Ted Ginn- moves up w/Pennington
32. DeSean Jackson- has a bit of magic
33. Joey Galloway- back at practice
34. Donald Driver- Favre free hurts him
35. Jerry Porter- returns to practice next week.

Others: Hackett, Coles, J. Walker, Crayton,
Branch, Burleson, Mason, Hardy, Meachem,
Bruce, Walter, Berrian, Darrell Jackson,
Curtis, R. Davis.

Steals: DeSean Jackson, Branch, Porter.

Late Breaking News- Braylon Edwards has
proclaimed himself healed and healthy.


Preseason Week 4/Grades-WR: (excludes top 5)

A:
G. Jennings- 1/68, TD
T. Williamson- 4/84, TD

B:
J. Hardy- 2/30
M. Jones- 3/38
A. Boldin- 3/40

C:
D. Bowe- 1/11
C. Taylor- 1/15

D:

F:

Comments: Anquan Boldin continues to play
well despite his unhappiness at being a member
of the Cardinals. He's a solid #2.


Tight Ends: Rankings

1. Jason Witten- Gates heir apparent
2. Antonio Gates- still the best/sore toe
3. Kellen Winslow- soldier
4. Jeremy Shockey- Brees a big +
5. Chris Cooley- consistent scorer
6. Tony Gonzalez- needs a QB
7. Vernon Davis- on the Martz merry go round
8. Dallas Clark- injury prone but huge upside
9. Randy McMichael- OC Saunders likes TE's
10. Heath Miller- red zone monster
11. Alge Crumpler- Young will target him
12. Owen Daniels- useful
13. Tony Scheffler- could move up
14. L.J. Smith- must stay healthy
15. Todd Heap- seemingly never healthy

Others: Boss, Lee, Watson, Olsen, Royal,
Z. Miller, J. Carlson, Putzier, Pope.

Steals: Crumpler, McMichael, L.J. Smith.

Late Breaking News: Tony Scheffler is listed as a
#2 on the Broncos depth chart at TE. Shanahan is
probably trying to light a fire under him as Tony will
be a favored target for Cutler.

Preseason Week 4/Grades-TE: (excludes top 3)

A:
L. Pope- 2/25, TD

B:
G. Olsen- 1/21
J. Putzier- 2/35

C:

D:

F:

Comments: Pretty solid crop of TE's after the
top 4. You can wait until round 10, at the minimum
and still get a serviceable player.


Kickers: Rankings

1. Nick Folk- lots of chances with Big D
2. Josh Brown- superb kicker in Dome
3. Kris Brown- finished 8th in points in 07
4. Shayne Graham- money
5. Phil Dawson- great offense/bad weather
6. Adam Vinatieri- bounce back year
7. Nate Kaeding- Chargers will be better
8. Mason Crosby- depends on Rodgers
9. Stephen Gotkowski- needs a few more FG's
10. Martin Gramatica- great offense/dome
11. Jason Elam- kicking in Georgia Dome
12. Neil Rackers- may return to 06 form
13. Rob Bironas- hasn't kicked since Pro Bowl
14. Robbie Gould- Bears offense weak
15. Ryan Longwell- inconsistent offense

Other: Suisham, Nugent, Tynes, Mare,
Reed, Janikowski, Kasey, Bryant, Akers,
Scobee, Hanson, Coutu, Carpenter.

Steal: Gramatica

Week 4 News: Jason Hanson seems to be ready
for the regular season.

Preseason Week 4/Grades-K: (excludes top 5)

A:
R. Gould- 3/3 (48/46)
J. Kasay- 3/3 (48)
M. Stover- 3/3 (48)
J. Reed- 4/5 (4 over 40/ missed 40)
S. Janikowski- 4/5 (50/40-missed 66)

B:
D. Akers- 2/2 (40)
R. Lindell- 2/2 (45)
B. Coutu- 2/2

C:
N. Kaeding- 2/3 (49-missed 32)

D:
M. Bryant- 3/5 (40/ missed 36,54)

F:

Comments: Janikowski kicked 4 of 5 last
night with a 50 yarder. He missed from 66!!
He's always had a big leg but is inconsistent.


Defenses: Rankings

1. San Diego- should repeat as #1
2. Minnesota- Allen will help CB's
3. New England- healthy upfront
4. Seattle- weak division/great pressure
5. Pittsburgh- only with Polamalu
6. Indianapolis- if Freeney/Sanders-100%
7. Dallas- improves with Pacman Jones
8. Green Bay- has the tools
9. Philadelphia- Samuel helps
10. Tampa Bay- will be better in 08
11. Jacksonville- on the cusp
12. Tennessee- needs Haynesworth
13. N.Y. Giants- may drop further
14. Chicago- for old times sake
15. Arizona- decent preseason

Others: Denver, Buffalo, Washington
Baltimore.

Steals: Philadelphia, Pittsburgh

Late Breaking News: The Ravens super safety
Ed Reed is likely to miss week 1 with a pinched
nerve in his neck. Baltimore has issues on both
sides of the ball.

Preseason Week 4/Grades-DEF:

A:
Jacksonville- held Washington to 14 yards in 3 series
Green Bay- stymied Tennessee's tandem RB's (24/79).

B:

C:

D:

*ypc- yards per carry
*ypa- yards per attempt

Comments: Green Bay looks like a solid defense in a
very weak conference. Nice pick later in the draft.


Bye Weeks:

Week 4: Lions, Colts, Dolphins, Patriots, Giants, Seahawks
Week 5: Browns, Raiders, Rams, Jets
Week 6: Bills, Titans, Chiefs, Steelers
Week 7: Falcons, Eagles, Cards, Jaguars
Week 8: Bears, Bengals, Broncos, Packers, Vikings, Texans
Week 9: Saints, Chargers, 49ers, Panthers
Week 10: Cowboys, Buccaneers, Redskins, Ravens

Bye week management is critical to a successful draft. It's
mandatory that you consider bye weeks when drafting your
team to avoid having multiple starters on bye any given week
basically forfeiting your chance to win that week. There are
only 14 regular season games in standard fantasy football
league seasons so you can hardly give away any and expect
to make the playoffs. For example if you're lucky enough to
get Adrian Peterson early in round 1 you may pass on Rudi
Johnson and opt for Graham, Jacobs, Brown or James at the
bottom of the 2nd or top of the 3rd round. If it's too good to
pass on such as Westbrook and Turner then make certain
that your reserve running backs are not off on the same week.
Also, if you can select a tight end, a kicker and a defense with
different bye weeks you'll only need 1 flex spot on your roster
to cover all 3 byes.

Draft Strategy:

It all begins with mock drafts. Try to participate in at least 3
approximately 2 days before your actual draft. Enter each
draft from a different position, one at the top, one middle,
one at the bottom, if possible. Print the results of each and
study patterns that emerge consistently especially in the
middle rounds. Look at positions primarily to see if QB's
are going late, WR's early and which running backs are
falling. Make note of which and when the top 4 defenses
are coming off the board as well as the tight end distribution.

Try to use the 1st 6 mock rounds to grab you're starters at RB,
WR and QB but be flexible as to the order you use to achieve
this objective. Most experts recommend you pick the best 2
RB's available with your 1st picks and it's a sound practice.
However depending on the nature of the draft it may be
prudent to go RB, WR, WR, RB, QB, WR/RB. You've got to
recognize opportunities in the skill positions. As an example
you may pick early and grab Addai but as you come back
around the RB choices could be Rudi Johnson, Jacobs and
Maroney. It might be wise to grab Edwards and Fitzgerald
and with the 4th pick reach for James or Willie Parker. The
combinations are infinite so having a good handle on how
players will come off the board will give you a real advantage
on draft day. Mock drafting from different positions allows
for the formulation of diverse plans and contingencies. You
are now ready for your live draft.

Plot your draft. Typically your draft position will be revealed
approximately 30 minutes before going live. Use this time to
game plan. If you have the 7th pick your game plan may look
something like this: Rd 1- Larry Johnson, Rd 2- Terrell Owens,
Rd 3- Chad Johnson, Rd 4- Edgerrin James, Rd 5- McNabb, Rd
6-Santonio Holmes, Rd 7- Kevin Jones, Rd 8- Cotchery, Rd 9-
Jerry Porter, Rd 10- Tampa Bay, Rd 11- McMichael, Rd 12-
Steve Slaton, Rd 13- Nate Kaeding , Rd 14- Jeff Garcia, Rd 15-
flex. Looking at this game plan from a bye week perspective;
L. Johnson/Holmes week 6, McNabb/James week 7, Owens/
Tampa Bay week 10 are spaced perfectly with reserve RB K.
Jones off on week 8, Cotchery off on week 5 and Garcia sitting
week 10. The flex play will allow for bye week replacement of
TE/K/DEF which are on bye week 5/9/10 respectively. It's
this type of roadmap that will provide the direction that you'll
need when the draft goes off course which it invariably does.

Make certain you check NFL news before the draft to assess
a players availability. An injured or suspended player may
drop appreciably on draft boards and could represent a
steal or a bust on draft day. Whenever possible join leagues
that draft after the 3rd pre-season game as typically teams
will extend their starters in this game and use them prudently,
if at all, in the final exhibition game.

Lastly try not to have pages of notes to work as your guide.
A one pager with bye weeks, the game plan, the top players
by position and sleepers is all that you'll need to make sound
decisions in 90 second intervals.


Updates to the Rankings and News will occur daily
reflecting training camp and preseason activities
through August 30st.

The 2008 Regular Season site will go live on:

August 31st.

Fantasy Football Player's Edge

August 29, 2008

Site updated by 11am EST daily.

2008 Fantasy Draft Preview

The following rankings are based on a 10 team league using a
scoring format of 25 yards per point and 4 points per TD with
a 1 point deduction for interceptions and a 2 point deduction
for fumbles for QB's. RB/WR/TE receive 1 point per 10 yards
and 6 points per touchdown minus 2 points per fumble. Kickers
will receive 3, 4, 5 points respectively for 1-30, 40 and 50/over
yard field goals and 1 point for PAT's. Defenses will be awarded
2 points for safeties, fumble recoveries, interceptions and blocked
kicks. Each sack will earn 1 point. Additionally, points will accrue
for points allowed to opponents starting at 10 for a shutout to a
-4 for a blowout against the unit.

Each team will start 1 QB, 2 RB's, 3 WR's, 1 TE, 1 K, 1 Defense
and 6 reserves from any group.

The Rankings

Quarterbacks: Rankings

1. Tom Brady- has all his weapons available
2. Peyton Manning- Marvin's return a boost
3. Drew Brees- has to get off to a better start
4. Tony Romo- could easily move up to #2
5. Carson Palmer- better than last year.
6. Derek Anderson- better than last year
7. Donovan McNabb- stays healthy he's #5
8. Ben Rothlisberger- was 4th last year
9. Jay Cutler- Marshall out for 2 games
10. Marc Bulger- came up big in preseason #3
11. Matt Schaub- has weapons
12. David Garrard- McNabb-lite.
13. Philip Rivers- might surprise
14. Brett Favre- we'll see
15. Matt Hasselbeck- needs Branch

Others: E. Manning, Kitna, Young, Campbell,
Warner, Delhomme, Garcia.

Steals: Garrard, Rivers.

Late Breaking News: There has to be something up
when a team like the Ravens is not looking at someone
like Daunte Culpepper as a short term answer at QB.
Even if Troy Smith is healthy for week 1, it would seem
that Baltimore would want to start the season with a
more seasoned QB. Logically, they would not have drafted
Flacco if they thought Smith was the answer. When the
Raiders and Seahawks hook up Friday for the final game
of the preseason neither Hasselbeck or Russell will be
QBing. Hasselbeck is still dealing with back problems and
JaMarcus is being held out as a precaution.

Preseason Week 4/ Grades-QB:

A:
A. Rodgers- 1/1, 68, TD

B:
D. Garrard- 5/8, 58, TD/Int
B. Quinn- 6/8, 63
B. Croyle- 3/4, 42

C:
J. Flacco- 8/13, 72

D:
V. Young- 13/27, 134, 3 rushes/57

F:
M. Ryan- 2/7, 17
K. Orton- 2/4, 25, Int

Comments: Rodgers made 1 pass and connected
with Jennings for a 68 yard score. Vince Young
was dreadful again but had 57 rushing yards. He
should not be owned. Garrard was pedestrian but
has upside.


Running Backs: Rankings

1. LaDainian Tomlinson- 1
2. Adrian Peterson- 1A
3. Steven Jackson- if he signs on.
4. Joseph Addai- very consistent
5. Brian Westbrook- amazing/injury risk
6. Frank Gore- look for a rebound w/Martz
7. Marion Barber- he's the man
8. Larry Johnson- still has the juice
9. Jamal Lewis- fantastic 2007
10. Clinton Portis- could easily move up
11. Marshawn Lynch- nice rookie season
12. Michael Turner- if Atlanta can block
13. Ryan Grant- marked man w/Rodgers
14. Darren McFadden- could easily move up
15. Maurice-Jones Drew- moves up with lead role.
16. Earnest Graham- solid #2 RB
17. Willis McGahee- new offense/knee issues
18. Brandon Jacobs- Droughns/Bradshaw
19. Edgerrin James- will be available rd. 3/4
20. Ricky Williams- moving up fast
21. Willie Parker- moves up w/goal line touches
22. Chris Perry- has to fend off Rudi Johnson
23. LenDale White- plowshare is useful
24. Reggie Bush- runs scared/receptions yards useful
25. Laurence Maroney- underutilized by Belichick

Others: T. Jones, J. Stewart/Williams, Forte/
K. Jones, S. Young/A. Hall, K. Smith, Taylor,
J. Jones/Morris, Fargas, C. Johnson, C. Brown
/Slaton/Green, McAllister/P. Thomas, R. Brown
L. Jordan, R. Johnson, Bradshaw, Hightower,
R. Rice, Sproles.

Steals: C. Perry, J. Jones, Slaton, K. Jones.

Late Breaking News: Bad news for Steve Slaton
owners. Ahman Green has restructured his deal to
stay in Houston. Rudi Johnson did not play which
probably indicates that his days in Cincinnati are
over. Willis McGahee is still limping and is likely to
miss the opener.

Preseason Week 4/Grades-RB: (excludes top 10)

A:
R. Brown- 12/47, TD
R. Rice- 7/35, rec 2/6
W. Parker- 4/34
B. Jacobs- 3/32
L. Jordan- 6/27, rec 1/23

B:
M. Turner- 4/18
M. Forte- 2/8, rec 1/17

C:
R. Mendenhall- 21/79, fumble
C. Perry- 9/20, TD
L. White- 16/54
C. Johnson- 8/24

D:
A. Bradshaw- 12/30, rec 1/8
D. McAllister- 11/30, rec 2/2

F:
L. Maroney- 4/5

Comments: Maroney has had a tough preseason.
He's a good back trapped in an unpredictable system.
Ronnie Brown had a solid performance likely creating
a true timeshare with Ricky Williams. Ray Rice is
in position to start week 1 as McGahee is still limping.
It's week 2 that has fantasy players guessing. If Rice
comes up big it might render McGahee expendable.
Willie Parker has looked good while Michael Turner
could be looking at 25 touches a game with inexperienced
Matt Ryan at the helm. The Tennessee tandem of White
and Johnson were completely stymied by Green Bay.


Wide Receivers: Rankings

1. Randy Moss- comparable to 2007
2. Terrell Owens- trails only Moss
3. Reggie Wayne- elite last season
4. Larry Fitzgerald- gets better in 08
5. Braylon Edwards- was 3rd last season
6. Brandon Marshall- big time player
7. Marques Colston- Brees go to WR
8. T.J. Houshmandzadeh- money
9. Andre Johnson- needs to stay healthy
10. Steve Smith- misses 2 starts
11. Torry Holt- not done yet
12. Plaxico Burress- ankle has improved
13. Anquan Boldin- great #2
14. Wes Welker- slot supreme
15. Chad Johnson- labrum tear
16. Marvin Harrison- Marv at 16
17. Santonio Holmes- could move up
18. Calvin Johnson- big time upside
19. Greg Jennings- Rodgers prime target
20. Roy Williams- always disappoints
21. Chris Chambers- enigmatic
22. Lee Evans- needs chemistry w/Edwards
23. Hines Ward- steady
24. Roddy White- Redman/Ryan inhibitors
25. Jericho Cotchery- nice #3
26. Dwayne Bowe- lacks a QB
27. Anthony Gonzalez- could easily move up
28. Vincent Jackson- big target, soft hands
29. Devin Hester- moves way up as a #1 WR.
30. Santana Moss- inconsistent
31. Ted Ginn- moves up w/Pennington
32. DeSean Jackson- has a bit of magic
33. Joey Galloway- back at practice
34. Donald Driver- Favre free hurts him
35. Jerry Porter- returns to practice next week.

Others: Hackett, Coles, J. Walker, Crayton,
Branch, Burleson, Mason, Hardy, Meachem,
Bruce, Walter, Berrian, Darrell Jackson,
Curtis, R. Davis.

Steals: DeSean Jackson, Branch, Porter.

Late Breaking News- Brandon Marshall had his
suspension reduced to 1 game. Bernard Berrian sat
out again last night with turf toe.


Preseason Week 4/Grades-WR: (excludes top 5)

A:
G. Jennings- 1/68, TD
T. Williamson- 4/84, TD

B:
J. Hardy- 2/30
M. Jones- 3/38

C:
D. Bowe- 1/11

D:

F:

Comments: Troy Williamson came up big in
Jacksonville's preseason finale. He's worth a
very late round flier. James Hardy got some PT
and will be a red zone threat for the Bills. He'll
have some value as a #3 if he can secure the spot
opposite Lee Evans. Dwayne Bowe is a tough
call this season but if he's a #3 you could do worse.


Tight Ends: Rankings

1. Jason Witten- Gates heir apparent
2. Antonio Gates- still the best/sore toe
3. Kellen Winslow- soldier
4. Jeremy Shockey- Brees a big +
5. Chris Cooley- consistent scorer
6. Tony Gonzalez- needs a QB
7. Vernon Davis- on the Martz merry go round
8. Dallas Clark- injury prone but huge upside
9. Randy McMichael- OC Saunders likes TE's
10. Heath Miller- red zone monster
11. Alge Crumpler- Young will target him
12. Owen Daniels- useful
13. Tony Scheffler- could move up
14. L.J. Smith- must stay healthy
15. Todd Heap- seemingly never healthy

Others: Boss, Lee, Watson, Olsen, Royal,
Z. Miller, J. Carlson.

Steals: Crumpler, McMichael, L.J. Smith.

Late Breaking News: Mike Martz expects Vernon
Davis to make big plays downfield although he may have
fewer receptions. Martz admires Davis' blocking ability.
Great Mike, a blocking TE in fantasy football. Jeremy
Shockey sat last night meaning he has not played one
snap during the preseason. It remains to be seen if he'll
be on the Saints injury report.

Preseason Week 4/Grades-TE: (excludes top 3)

A:

B:
G. Olsen- 1/21

C:

D:

F:

Comments: Pretty solid crop of TE's after the
top 4. You can wait until round 10, at the minimum,
and still get a serviceable player.


Kickers: Rankings

1. Nick Folk- lots of chances with Big D
2. Josh Brown- superb kicker in Dome
3. Kris Brown- finished 8th in points in 07
4. Shayne Graham- money
5. Phil Dawson- great offense/bad weather
6. Adam Vinatieri- bounce back year
7. Nate Kaeding- Chargers will be better
8. Mason Crosby- depends on Rodgers
9. Stephen Gotkowski- needs a few more FG's
10. Martin Gramatica- great offense/dome
11. Jason Elam- kicking in Georgia Dome
12. Neil Rackers- may return to 06 form
13. Rob Bironas- hasn't kicked since Pro Bowl
14. Robbie Gould- Bears offense weak
15. Ryan Longwell- inconsistent offense

Other: Suisham, Nugent, Tynes, Mare,
Reed, Janikowski, Kasey, Bryant, Akers,
Scobee, Hanson, Coutu, Carpenter.

Steal: Gramatica

Week 4 News: Jason Hanson seems to be ready
for the regular season.

Preseason Week 4/Grades-K: (excludes top 5)

A:
R. Gould- 3/3 (48/46)
J. Kasay- 3/3 (48)
M. Stover- 3/3 (48)
J. Reed- 4/5 ( 4 over 40/ missed 40)

B:
D. Akers- 2/2 (40)
R. Lindell- 2/2 (45)

C:

D:
M. Bryant- 3/5 (40/ missed 36,54)

F:

Comments: If you're not inclined to reach for
Nick Folk, who's likely to lead in kicking points,
there are several good kickers who can help you
to a championship.


Defenses: Rankings

1. San Diego- should repeat as #1
2. Minnesota- Allen will help CB's
3. New England- healthy upfront
4. Seattle- weak division/great pressure
5. Pittsburgh- only with Polamalu
6. Indianapolis- if Freeney/Sanders-100%
7. Dallas- improves with Pacman Jones
8. Green Bay- has the tools
9. Philadelphia- Samuel helps
10. Tampa Bay- will be better in 08
11. Jacksonville- on the cusp
12. Tennessee- needs Haynesworth
13. N.Y. Giants- may drop further
14. Chicago- for old times sake
15. Arizona- decent preseason

Others: Denver, Buffalo, Washington
Baltimore.

Steals: Philadelphia, Pittsburgh

Late Breaking News: Lofa Tatupu has a bone
bruise but will be starting at linebacker for Seattle
in their opener.

Preseason Week 4/Grades-DEF:

A:
Jacksonville- held Washington to 14 yards in 3 series
Green Bay- stymied Tennessee's tandem RB's (24/79).

B:

C:

D:

*ypc- yards per carry
*ypa- yards per attempt

Comments: Green Bay looks like a solid defense in a
very weak conference. Nice pick later in the draft.


Bye Weeks:

Week 4: Lions, Colts, Dolphins, Patriots, Giants, Seahawks
Week 5: Browns, Raiders, Rams, Jets
Week 6: Bills, Titans, Chiefs, Steelers
Week 7: Falcons, Eagles, Cards, Jaguars
Week 8: Bears, Bengals, Broncos, Packers, Vikings, Texans
Week 9: Saints, Chargers, 49ers, Panthers
Week 10: Cowboys, Buccaneers, Redskins, Ravens

Bye week management is critical to a successful draft. It's
mandatory that you consider bye weeks when drafting your
team to avoid having multiple starters on bye any given week
basically forfeiting your chance to win that week. There are
only 14 regular season games in standard fantasy football
league seasons so you can hardly give away any and expect
to make the playoffs. For example if you're lucky enough to
get Adrian Peterson early in round 1 you may pass on Rudi
Johnson and opt for Graham, Jacobs, Brown or James at the
bottom of the 2nd or top of the 3rd round. If it's too good to
pass on such as Westbrook and Turner then make certain
that your reserve running backs are not off on the same week.
Also, if you can select a tight end, a kicker and a defense with
different bye weeks you'll only need 1 flex spot on your roster
to cover all 3 byes.

Draft Strategy:

It all begins with mock drafts. Try to participate in at least 3
approximately 2 days before your actual draft. Enter each
draft from a different position, one at the top, one middle,
one at the bottom, if possible. Print the results of each and
study patterns that emerge consistently especially in the
middle rounds. Look at positions primarily to see if QB's
are going late, WR's early and which running backs are
falling. Make note of which and when the top 4 defenses
are coming off the board as well as the tight end distribution.

Try to use the 1st 6 mock rounds to grab you're starters at RB,
WR and QB but be flexible as to the order you use to achieve
this objective. Most experts recommend you pick the best 2
RB's available with your 1st picks and it's a sound practice.
However depending on the nature of the draft it may be
prudent to go RB, WR, WR, RB, QB, WR/RB. You've got to
recognize opportunities in the skill positions. As an example
you may pick early and grab Addai but as you come back
around the RB choices could be Rudi Johnson, Jacobs and
Maroney. It might be wise to grab Edwards and Fitzgerald
and with the 4th pick reach for James or Willie Parker. The
combinations are infinite so having a good handle on how
players will come off the board will give you a real advantage
on draft day. Mock drafting from different positions allows
for the formulation of diverse plans and contingencies. You
are now ready for your live draft.

Plot your draft. Typically your draft position will be revealed
approximately 30 minutes before going live. Use this time to
game plan. If you have the 7th pick your game plan may look
something like this: Rd 1- Larry Johnson, Rd 2- Terrell Owens,
Rd 3- Chad Johnson, Rd 4- Edgerrin James, Rd 5- McNabb, Rd
6-Santonio Holmes, Rd 7- Kevin Jones, Rd 8- Cotchery, Rd 9-
Jerry Porter, Rd 10- Tampa Bay, Rd 11- McMichael, Rd 12-
Steve Slaton, Rd 13- Nate Kaeding , Rd 14- Jeff Garcia, Rd 15-
flex. Looking at this game plan from a bye week perspective;
L. Johnson/Holmes week 6, McNabb/James week 7, Owens/
Tampa Bay week 10 are spaced perfectly with reserve RB K.
Jones off on week 8, Cotchery off on week 5 and Garcia sitting
week 10. The flex play will allow for bye week replacement of
TE/K/DEF which are on bye week 5/9/10 respectively. It's
this type of roadmap that will provide the direction that you'll
need when the draft goes off course which it invariably does.

Make certain you check NFL news before the draft to assess
a players availability. An injured or suspended player may
drop appreciably on draft boards and could represent a
steal or a bust on draft day. Whenever possible join leagues
that draft after the 3rd pre-season game as typically teams
will extend their starters in this game and use them prudently,
if at all, in the final exhibition game.

Lastly try not to have pages of notes to work as your guide.
A one pager with bye weeks, the game plan, the top players
by position and sleepers is all that you'll need to make sound
decisions in 90 second intervals.


Updates to the Rankings and News will occur daily
reflecting training camp and preseason activities
through August 31st.

The 2008 Regular Season site will go live on:

September 1st at 10am EST.

Fantasy Football Player's Edge

August 28, 2008

Site updated by 11am EST daily.

2008 Fantasy Draft Preview

The following rankings are based on a 10 team league using a
scoring format of 25 yards per point and 4 points per TD with
a 1 point deduction for interceptions and a 2 point deduction
for fumbles for QB's. RB/WR/TE receive 1 point per 10 yards
and 6 points per touchdown minus 2 points per fumble. Kickers
will receive 3, 4, 5 points respectively for 1-30, 40 and 50/over
yard field goals and 1 point for PAT's. Defenses will be awarded
2 points for safeties, fumble recoveries, interceptions and blocked
kicks. Each sack will earn 1 point. Additionally, points will accrue
for points allowed to opponents starting at 10 for a shutout to a
-4 for a blowout against the unit.

Each team will start 1 QB, 2 RB's, 3 WR's, 1 TE, 1 K, 1 Defense
and 6 reserves from any group.

The Rankings

Quarterbacks: Rankings

1. Tom Brady- has all his weapons available
2. Peyton Manning- Marvin's return a boost
3. Drew Brees- has to get off to a better start
4. Tony Romo- could easily move up to #2
5. Carson Palmer- better than last year.
6. Derek Anderson- better than last year
7. Donovan McNabb- stays healthy he's #5
8. Ben Rothlisberger- was 4th last year
9. Jay Cutler- Marshall out for 2 games
10. Marc Bulger- came up big in preseason #3
11. Matt Schaub- has weapons
12. David Garrard- McNabb-lite.
13. Philip Rivers- might surprise
14. Brett Favre- we'll see
15. Matt Hasselbeck- needs Branch

Others: E. Manning, Kitna, Young, Campbell,
Warner, Delhomme, Garcia.

Steals: Garrard, Rivers.

Late Breaking News: Marc Bulger is sitting out
the final preseason game to keep him upright heading
into the regular season opener. The Colts have upped
Peyton Manning's workload. It looks like he's getting
ready for week 1. Kurt Warner will start for the Cards
in their preseason finale. It's his job to lose. Joe Flacco
could be the Ravens opening day starter. Kyle Boller
has a serious shoulder injury and Troy Smith is out
again this week with tonsillitis. Flacco is not ready and
every Ravens offensive player will suffer if Flacco is
the starter.

Preseason Week 4/ Grades-QB:

A:

B:

C:

D:

F:

Comments:


Running Backs: Rankings

1. LaDainian Tomlinson- 1
2. Adrian Peterson- 1A
3. Steven Jackson- if he signs on.
4. Joseph Addai- very consistent
5. Brian Westbrook- amazing/injury risk
6. Frank Gore- look for a rebound w/Martz
7. Marion Barber- he's the man
8. Larry Johnson- still has the juice
9. Jamal Lewis- fantastic 2007
10. Clinton Portis- could easily move up
11. Marshawn Lynch- nice rookie season
12. Michael Turner- if Atlanta can block
13. Ryan Grant- marked man w/Rodgers
14. Darren McFadden- could easily move up
15. Maurice-Jones Drew- moves up with lead role.
16. Earnest Graham- solid #2 RB
17. Willis McGahee- new offense/knee issues
18. Brandon Jacobs- Droughns/Bradshaw
19. Edgerrin James- will be available rd. 3/4
20. Ricky Williams- moving up fast
21. Willie Parker- moves up w/goal line touches
22. Chris Perry- has to fend off Rudi Johnson
23. LenDale White- plowshare is useful
24. Reggie Bush- runs scared/receptions yards useful
25. Laurence Maroney- underutilized by Belichick

Others: T. Jones, J. Stewart/Williams, Forte/
K. Jones, S. Young/A. Hall, K. Smith, Taylor,
J. Jones/Morris, Fargas, C. Johnson, C. Brown
/Slaton/Green, McAllister/P. Thomas, R. Brown
L. Jordan, R. Johnson, Bradshaw, Hightower,
R. Rice, Sproles.

Steals: C. Perry, J. Jones, Slaton, K. Jones.

Late Breaking News: Clinton Portis wants a few
carries on Thursday as the 1st team offense plays one
series. Andre Hall may be Denver's goal line back
further diluting Selvin Young's value. Jamal Lewis
is making progress from a hamstring strain and should
be ready for the Browns opener vs. Dallas.

Preseason Week 4/Grades-RB: (excludes top 10)

A:

B:

C:

D:

F:

Comments:


Wide Receivers: Rankings

1. Randy Moss- comparable to 2007
2. Terrell Owens- trails only Moss
3. Reggie Wayne- elite last season
4. Larry Fitzgerald- gets better in 08
5. Braylon Edwards- was 3rd last season
6. Brandon Marshall- big time player
7. Marques Colston- Brees go to WR
8. T.J. Houshmandzadeh- money
9. Andre Johnson- needs to stay healthy
10. Steve Smith- misses 2 starts
11. Torry Holt- not done yet
12. Plaxico Burress- ankle has improved
13. Anquan Boldin- great #2
14. Wes Welker- slot supreme
15. Chad Johnson- labrum tear
16. Marvin Harrison- Marv at 16
17. Santonio Holmes- could move up
18. Calvin Johnson- big time upside
19. Greg Jennings- Rodgers prime target
20. Roy Williams- always disappoints
21. Chris Chambers- enigmatic
22. Lee Evans- needs chemistry w/Edwards
23. Hines Ward- steady
24. Roddy White- Redman/Ryan inhibitors
25. Jericho Cotchery- nice #3
26. Dwayne Bowe- lacks a QB
27. Anthony Gonzalez- could easily move up
28. Vincent Jackson- big target, soft hands
29. Devin Hester- moves way up as a #1 WR.
30. Santana Moss- inconsistent
31. Ted Ginn- moves up w/Pennington
32. DeSean Jackson- has a bit of magic
33. Joey Galloway- back at practice
34. Donald Driver- Favre free hurts him
35. Jerry Porter- returns to practice next week.

Others: Hackett, Coles, J. Walker, Crayton,
Branch, Burleson, Mason, Hardy, Meachem,
Bruce, Walter, Berrian, Darrell Jackson,
Curtis, R. Davis.

Steals: DeSean Jackson, Branch, Porter.

Late Breaking News- Reggie Brown is likely to miss
the Eagles opener against the Rams. DeSean Jackson
looks like a solid #3 for week 1. D. J. Hackett is nearing
a return to practice and may be ready for week 1. He'll
be a risky play as a #3 for the opener.


Preseason Week 4/Grades-WR: (excludes top 5)

A:

B:

C:

D:

F:

Comments:


Tight Ends: Rankings

1. Jason Witten- Gates heir apparent
2. Antonio Gates- still the best/sore toe
3. Kellen Winslow- soldier
4. Jeremy Shockey- Brees a big +
5. Chris Cooley- consistent scorer
6. Tony Gonzalez- needs a QB
7. Vernon Davis- on the Martz merry go round
8. Dallas Clark- injury prone but huge upside
9. Randy McMichael- OC Saunders likes TE's
10. Heath Miller- red zone monster
11. Alge Crumpler- Young will target him
12. Owen Daniels- useful
13. Tony Scheffler- could move up
14. L.J. Smith- must stay healthy
15. Todd Heap- seemingly never healthy

Others: Boss, Lee, Watson, Olsen, Royal,
Z. Miller, J. Carlson.

Steals: Crumpler, McMichael, L.J. Smith.

Late Breaking News: Todd Heap will be ready for
opening day according to coach Harbaugh. Let the
buyer beware.

Preseason Week 4/Grades-TE: (excludes top 3)

A:

B:

C:

D:

F:

Comments:


Kickers: Rankings

1. Nick Folk- lots of chances with Big D
2. Josh Brown- superb kicker in Dome
3. Kris Brown- finished 8th in points in 07
4. Shayne Graham- money
5. Phil Dawson- great offense/bad weather
6. Adam Vinatieri- bounce back year
7. Nate Kaeding- Chargers will be better
8. Mason Crosby- depends on Rodgers
9. Stephen Gotkowski- needs a few more FG's
10. Martin Gramatica- great offense/dome
11. Jason Elam- kicking in Georgia Dome
12. Neil Rackers- may return to 06 form
13. Rob Bironas- hasn't kicked since Pro Bowl
14. Robbie Gould- Bears offense weak
15. Ryan Longwell- inconsistent offense

Other: Suisham, Nugent, Tynes, Mare,
Reed, Janikowski, Kasey, Bryant, Akers,
Scobee, Hanson, Coutu, Carpenter.

Steal: Gramatica

Week 4 News: Rod Bironas has not kicked since the
Pro Bowl due to a groin strain. He's got a big leg but is
not worthy of a pick until he kicks.

Preseason Week 4/Grades-K: (excludes top 5)

A:

B:

C:

D:

F:

Comments:


Defenses: Rankings

1. San Diego- should repeat as #1
2. Minnesota- Allen will help CB's
3. New England- healthy upfront
4. Seattle- weak division/great pressure
5. Pittsburgh- only with Polamalu
6. Indianapolis- if Freeney/Sanders-100%
7. Dallas- improves with Pacman Jones
8. Tampa Bay- will be better 08
9. Philadelphia- Samuel helps
10. Green Bay- has the tools
11. Jacksonville- on the cusp
12. Tennessee- needs Haynesworth
13. N.Y. Giants- may drop further
14. Chicago- for old times sake
15. Arizona- decent preseason

Others: Denver, Buffalo, Washington
Baltimore.

Steals: Philadelphia, Pittsburgh

Late Breaking News: Michael Strahan has turned
down the Giants and will stay retired. Speculation from
a beat writer in Seattle is that Lofa Tatupu's injured
knee is not serious. The Seahawks are a top 5 defense
that relies heavily on Tatupu's intensity. Merriman
is going to try to play this season with 2 torn tendons.
He's risking a career ending injury.

Preseason Week 4/Grades-DEF:

A:

B:

C:

D:

*ypc- yards per carry
*ypa- yards per attempt

Comments:


Bye Weeks:

Week 4: Lions, Colts, Dolphins, Patriots, Giants, Seahawks
Week 5: Browns, Raiders, Rams, Jets
Week 6: Bills, Titans, Chiefs, Steelers
Week 7: Falcons, Eagles, Cards, Jaguars
Week 8: Bears, Bengals, Broncos, Packers, Vikings, Texans
Week 9: Saints, Chargers, 49ers, Panthers
Week 10: Cowboys, Buccaneers, Redskins, Ravens

Bye week management is critical to a successful draft. It's
mandatory that you consider bye weeks when drafting your
team to avoid having multiple starters on bye any given week
basically forfeiting your chance to win that week. There are
only 14 regular season games in standard fantasy football
league seasons so you can hardly give away any and expect
to make the playoffs. For example if you're lucky enough to
get Adrian Peterson early in round 1 you may pass on Rudi
Johnson and opt for Graham, Jacobs, Brown or James at the
bottom of the 2nd or top of the 3rd round. If it's too good to
pass on such as Westbrook and Turner then make certain
that your reserve running backs are not off on the same week.
Also, if you can select a tight end, a kicker and a defense with
different bye weeks you'll only need 1 flex spot on your roster
to cover all 3 byes.

Draft Strategy:

It all begins with mock drafts. Try to participate in at least 3
approximately 2 days before your actual draft. Enter each
draft from a different position, one at the top, one middle,
one at the bottom, if possible. Print the results of each and
study patterns that emerge consistently especially in the
middle rounds. Look at positions primarily to see if QB's
are going late, WR's early and which running backs are
falling. Make note of which and when the top 4 defenses
are coming off the board as well as the tight end distribution.

Try to use the 1st 6 mock rounds to grab you're starters at RB,
WR and QB but be flexible as to the order you use to achieve
this objective. Most experts recommend you pick the best 2
RB's available with your 1st picks and it's a sound practice.
However depending on the nature of the draft it may be
prudent to go RB, WR, WR, RB, QB, WR/RB. You've got to
recognize opportunities in the skill positions. As an example
you may pick early and grab Addai but as you come back
around the RB choices could be Rudi Johnson, Jacobs and
Maroney. It might be wise to grab Edwards and Fitzgerald
and with the 4th pick reach for James or Willie Parker. The
combinations are infinite so having a good handle on how
players will come off the board will give you a real advantage
on draft day. Mock drafting from different positions allows
for the formulation of diverse plans and contingencies. You
are now ready for your live draft.

Plot your draft. Typically your draft position will be revealed
approximately 30 minutes before going live. Use this time to
game plan. If you have the 7th pick your game plan may look
something like this: Rd 1- Larry Johnson, Rd 2- Terrell Owens,
Rd 3- Chad Johnson, Rd 4- Edgerrin James, Rd 5- McNabb, Rd
6-Santonio Holmes, Rd 7- Kevin Jones, Rd 8- Cotchery, Rd 9-
Jerry Porter, Rd 10- Tampa Bay, Rd 11- McMichael, Rd 12-
Steve Slaton, Rd 13- Nate Kaeding , Rd 14- Jeff Garcia, Rd 15-
flex. Looking at this game plan from a bye week perspective;
L. Johnson/Holmes week 6, McNabb/James week 7, Owens/
Tampa Bay week 10 are spaced perfectly with reserve RB K.
Jones off on week 8, Cotchery off on week 5 and Garcia sitting
week 10. The flex play will allow for bye week replacement of
TE/K/DEF which are on bye week 5/9/10 respectively. It's
this type of roadmap that will provide the direction that you'll
need when the draft goes off course which it invariably does.

Make certain you check NFL news before the draft to assess
a players availability. An injured or suspended player may
drop appreciably on draft boards and could represent a
steal or a bust on draft day. Whenever possible join leagues
that draft after the 3rd pre-season game as typically teams
will extend their starters in this game and use them prudently,
if at all, in the final exhibition game.

Lastly try not to have pages of notes to work as your guide.
A one pager with bye weeks, the game plan, the top players
by position and sleepers is all that you'll need to make sound
decisions in 90 second intervals.


Updates to the Rankings and News will occur daily
reflecting training camp and preseason activities
through August 31st.

The 2008 Regular Season site will go live on:

September 1st at 10am EST.