NFL RUMORS: September 2007

Chargers Look Really Bad Now

This was the game when the San Diego Chargers were supposed to get better. They didn't. In fact, they look a whole lot worse. The Chiefs did a great job of making the Chargers stop themselves with mistakes and turnovers. Chiefs defensive coordinator Gunther Cunningham relied on his four-man rush to create pressure while dropping seven into coverage on the backend. Starting CBs Ty Law and Patrick Surtain, along with the rest of the secondary, were very physical on the back end and disrupted the timing and rhythm of the San Digeo passing game, which made it very difficult for QB Phillip Rivers to find open areas in the Chiefs' Cover 2 schemes. Kansas City also dialed up some zone fires and blitzes that pressured the right side of the pocket and hindered Rivers' vision when trying to find passing windows. With Philip Rivers melting down, the Kansas City Chiefs shocked the Chargers 30-16 on Sunday, scoring 24 straight points in the second half and getting huge plays from two rookies. Dwayne Bowe, the Chiefs' first-round draft pick, caught a go-ahead, 51-yard touchdown pass from Damon Huard early in the fourth quarter, and cornerback Tyron Brackenridge raced 50 yards for a score after Rivers was sacked and fumbled with just more than seven minutes left. It was the third straight loss for the Chargers (1-3), which exceeds their loss total from last year, when they were an NFL-best 14-2 before their playoff pratfall against New England. Rivers was mercilessly booed in the second half. Those fans who weren't streaming out of the stadium showed their displeasure by chanting "Marty! Marty! Marty!" late in the game, an obvious reference to Marty Schottenheimer, who was fired in February and replaced with Norv Turner. The Chargers have been unproductive under Turner, whose overall record in three NFL head coaching stints is 59-85-1. The chants came after Rivers threw four straight incompletions from the 5-yard line with less than four minutes left. Rivers had two interceptions and one fumble, which led to 17 points. Larry Johnson gained 123 yards on 25 carries for the Chiefs (2-2). LaDainian Tomlinson finally cracked triple digits for the Chargers, gaining 132 yards on 20 carries, surpassing his season total of 130.
This article was written by the San Diego (AP).

Lots Of Injuries Today

Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Carnell "Cadillac" Williams was carted off the field with a right knee injury in the first quarter of Sunday's game against Carolina. Williams had just broken through the right side for an 18-yard gain when he was hit by safety Chris Harris near the Panthers' sideline. The hit forced Williams backward as his right leg bent under him awkwardly, and Williams immediately clutched the knee as he lay on the ground after the play. The Panthers said Williams would not return. Panthers wideout Steve Smith, standing a short distance from Williams, immediately started motioning for medical personnel. The entire Tampa Bay team eventually came off the sideline to join Panthers players around the cart as Williams left the field.

Oakland Raiders running back LaMont Jordan left Sunday's game against the Miami Dolphins shortly before halftime with a back injury. Jordan was hurt when he was tackled following a 7-yard reception. He was helped off the field, then went to the locker room sitting up on a cart.
Jordan was the Raiders' leading rusher with 350 yards in their first three games.

San Francisco 49ers quarterback Alex Smith was knocked out of Sunday's game against the Seattle Seahawks on the 49ers' third play with an injured right shoulder.
Smith, who has taken every snap for the 49ers the past two seasons, was driven hard to the ground on a sack by Seattle's Rocky Bernard on San Francisco's first drive.
Smith spent the rest of the half in the locker room, and the 49ers announced he wouldn't return in the third quarter. Trent Dilfer came out for the second series, taking his first snaps in a regular-season game since playing for Cleveland in 2005. Dilfer went 6-of-11 for 76 yards in the first half, but was sacked five times. And he threw an interception on San Francisco's first play of the third quarter.

St. Louis Rams linebacker Raonall Smith, defensive end Leonard Little and offensive guard Adam Goldberg left Sunday's 35-7 loss at Dallas with knee injuries, and receiver Isaac Bruce strained his left hamstring. Starting safety Corey Chavous left in the fourth quarter with a strained left pectoral muscle, which was initially reported as a strained shoulder. All the knee injuries were described by coach Scott Linehan as sprains. Goldberg hurt his left knee, with Smith and Little injuring their right knees. "We will see the extent of those injuries [Monday]," Linehan said without elaborating on any of them. With the Rams trailing 35-7 and already without another lineman late in the third quarter, Gus Frerotte replaced Marc Bulger at quarterback. Bulger was playing with two broken ribs. Goldberg appeared to get hurt soon after halftime when he was beat on a block by Cowboys linebacker Greg Ellis, who got around the right tackle for a sack of Bulger.

The Indianapolis Colts lost two starters with left knee injuries in the second quarter of Sunday's game against Denver. Eight-time Pro Bowl receiver Marvin Harrison sustained a bruised knee and missed most of the second quarter after going to the locker room. Then, in the final minute of the half, linebacker Rob Morris was carted off the field with a brace around his left knee.
The Broncos later lost running back Travis Henry midway through the third quarter with a sprained right ankle. His return was questionable. Henry, who rushed 24 times for 121 yards and is the Broncos' top rusher, was hurt when Freddy Keiaho tackled him after a 1-yard gain and Henry's right leg was caught underneath. He stayed on the field and clasped his face mask with both hands before he limped to the bench, where doctors worked on his ankle. Harrison was hurt when two players ran into him while Harrison was blocking for Joseph Addai late in the first quarter. Harrison limped off the field, missed one play, then caught his first pass of the game. He remained on the field for the final four plays of Indy's first touchdown drive. But after coming off the field following the drive, he consulted with team doctors and went to the locker room. Harrison is the Colts' career leader in receptions, yards receiving and touchdown catches and ranks fourth on the NFL's career reception list (1,039). Morris, who missed the Colts' last two games with an abdominal strain, was hurt when Denver tight end Daniel Graham was blocking him on a running play. Morris crumpled to the ground, took off his helmet and put his hands on his face before being helped onto a golf cart and taken off the field. There was no immediate comment from the team on Morris' injury. Morris was the Colts' first-round choice in 2000 and was a key ingredient in Indy's Super Bowl run after moving from middle linebacker to outside linebacker, where he regained the starting job late last season.

Source: (AP), ESPN

BREAKING NEWS: FAVRE PASSES MARINO WITH TOUCHDOWN 421

Brett Favre was as good as ever, becoming the NFL's all-time leader in career touchdown passes with a couple of vintage third-down zingers to help Green Bay stay unbeaten.
Favre was the obvious difference in Sunday's 23-16 victory by the Packers, who hung on against the pass-deficient Minnesota Vikings. He threw No. 421 in the first quarter to Greg Jennings, No. 422 in the fourth quarter to James Jones and went interception-free against a defense determined to make him the league's all-time leader in that category, too. Favre is three picked-off passes away from overtaking George Blanda on the career list. Kelly Holcomb is not quite in Favre's class. He threw a touchdown pass to Sidney Rice with 1:55 left to pull the Vikings within seven, and a nearly disastrous fumble gave Minnesota (1-3) a chance to tie it. Favre's handoff to Ryan Grant was not clean, and Chad Greenway fell on the ball at the Vikings 46. But on Holcomb's tipped pass from the Packers 34 was intercepted by Atari Bigby to seal the game and boost Favre's record at the Metrodome to 6-10. Congratulations to Brett Favre from the entire ASB Nation, and NFLrumorz.com for your 421st touchdown.

(AP), ESPN

The Good Fantasy Team

Okay here is a new feature Jeff from Arizona emailed me with. This will replace the loved "start em' sit em'" just for one week. Please leave a comment on the post, or email me at bam@nflrumorz.com with your comments on this new feature.

The Good Team

QB- Brett Favre
QB- Donovan McNabb
RB- Ronnie Brown
RB- Adrian Peterson (Vikings)
WR- Donald Driver
WR- Calvin Johnson
TE- Ben Watson
K- Adam Viniteri
Defense- Seattle

The Bad Team

QB- Brian Griese
QB- Tavaris Jackson / Kelly Holcomb
RB- Brandon Jackson / Vernand Morrency
RB- LaMont Jordan
WR- Bernard Berrian
WR- Plaxico Burress
TE- Tony Gonzales
K- Rian Lindell
Defense- Minnesota

Week Four Pick Em'

Here are my week four picks

Houston @ Atlanta- Houston

NYJ @ Buffalo- Buffalo

Baltimore @ Cleveland- Baltimore

St. Louis @ Dallas- Dallas

Chicago @ Detroit- Detroit

Oakland @ Miami- Miami

Green Bay @ Minnesota- Green Bay

Seattle @ San Fransisco- Seattle

Tampa Bay @ Carolina- Carolina

Denver @ Indianapolis- Indianapolis

Pittsburgh @ Arizona- Pittsburgh

Kansas City @ San Diego- San Diego

Philadelphia @ NYG- Philadelphia

New England @ Cincinnati- New England

Burress To Play Sunday

New York Giants receiver Plaxico Burress got some good news about his badly sprained right ankle. The second opinion on the ankle showed it was nothing more than a bad sprain, and that Burress can continue his current course of treatment. Burress will continue practicing on a limited basis about one day a week and intends to play Sunday night against the Philadelphia Eagles at Giants Stadium. "When I feel good enough to go and practice, I'll practice," Burress said after watching Thursday's workout. "If I am sore, I'll have limited practice. I'll just gauge my soreness and manage it that way." Burress was examined on Wednesday by Dr. Robert Anderson in Charlotte, N.C. His diagnosis of a serious sprain agreed with the diagnosis of Dr. Russ Warren, the Giants orthopedic surgeon. Burress sprained the ankle in early August in training camp and reinjured it against the Green Bay Packers on Sept. 16. Ronnie Barnes, Giants vice president of medical services, said Burress will continue to receive electric stimulation on the ankle. The team also will explore other options, including changing his shoes or adding orthotics and braces. "My goal is to get to the point where it is bearable on Sunday," said Burress, whose five touchdown catches leads the NFL along with Randy Moss of New England. Burress has been a crucial part of the Giants' offense against the Eagles the past two years. In the three games last season, he had 17 catches for 323 yards -- a 19-yard average -- and three touchdowns, including a winner in overtime in the second week of the season and two TDs in the wild-card playoff game. Since joining the Giants in 2005, the 6-foot-5 speedster has 25 catches for 473 yards and four TDs in the five games against Philadelphia. Fantasy Take: I'm giving fantasy owners the green light to start Burress this week. He's played with injuries before and has done just fine. His stats this year have been great and if he keeps this up he'll be in the probowl.

Source: AP

Delhomme Might Miss Week 4

Jake Delhomme missed practice again Thursday with a strained right elbow, making it more likely backup David Carr will start at quarterback for Carolina on Sunday against Tampa Bay. Panthers coach John Fox, always secretive with injuries, sidestepped a question on whether Delhomme tried to throw. "He did not participate [in practice]," Fox said. "That's all .. I've got to say and that's all I'm going to say. You know that." Carr, signed by Carolina in the offseason after being a five-year starter in Houston, led Carolina on two scoring drives in relief against Atlanta after Delhomme left the game late in the third quarter.

Source: ESPN

Lovie Smith Press Conference, Grossman Officially Benched

McAllister Out For Season...Maybe Career

In Deuce McAllister's locker, front-and-center on the top shelf, is a gold-painted wooden carving of the word: "Believe!" After his second season-ending knee injury in three seasons, the Saints' 28-year-old all-time leading rusher wants to believe he will return to the NFL as an elite running back. It won't be easy, and he knows it. "Obviously, the questions: Will you ever be the same? Will you ever be the back that you once were? Those are the different thoughts that obviously run through your mind as a player," McAllister said. "I believe in myself. It's just a matter of me putting the time in and me putting the work in." McAllister said an MRI exam Tuesday confirmed his worst fears: He tore his left anterior cruciate ligament in Monday night's 31-14 loss to Tennessee. During the second quarter, McAllister landed awkwardly after catching a short pass from Drew Brees. McAllister walked off the field on his own, but having torn his right ACL in 2005, he was worried. "I just told myself to get up off the ground. One lesson I learned growing up was to never let your opponent see you hurt. Regardless of what it is, if you can walk, walk off that field," McAllister said. "Once I got to the sideline, I knew it. I didn't want to believe it, but just taking the walk to the locker room I could feel it just kind of giving way a little bit and that was just kind of reminiscent of how the other one felt." McAllister said there was also some damage to his medial collateral ligament. Five games into the 2005 season, McAllister tore his right ACL during a run in Green Bay. After reconstructive surgery, he returned to rush for 1,057 yards in 2006, helping the Saints to the NFC South title and starring in their playoff victory over Philadelphia. Now McAllister needs reconstructive surgery on the other knee, likely a patellar tendon graft, followed by the long, painful rehabilitation that will last almost until 2008 training camp begins, if not longer. This may be it for McAllister, who has already been splitting time with second year man Reggie Bush.

Bears Have Seen Enough, Griese To Replace Grossman

Rex Grossman's latest meltdown reportedly will have him standing on the sidelines this week. The Chicago Bears need to bench Rex Grossman, and not just for a game or two...for good. The Chicago Tribune, Chicago Sun-Times and NFL.com, citing anonymous sources, reported on their Web sites that backup Brian Griese will replace Grossman as the starting quarterback when the Bears face the Lions. Chicago returns to practice on Wednesday to prepare for Sunday's game at Detroit. The Bears would not confirm that any decision has been made, saying only that coach Lovie Smith would be available for his regular Wednesday news conference. Grossman threw three interceptions as the Chicago Bears fell to the Dallas Cowboys 34-10 on Sunday night. The following day, Smith, who usually gives Grossman full support, instead said: "Will Rex Grossman start Sunday? Well, our evaluation process is going on right now, and if you come out to practice Wednesday, you'll have a better idea of who will be starting at all positions." Grossman has struggled ever since February's Super Bowl, when he threw two interceptions, one of which was returned for a touchdown. This year, he ranks 23rd in the league with 500 yards, has a 45.2 rating and is 47-of-89 (52.8 percent) with a league-leading six interceptions and just one touchdown. Now in his fifth pro season, Grossman has been inconsistent as Chicago's starter, but he did get the team to the Super Bowl last season. Griese, a 10-year veteran, was a Pro Bowl pick with Denver in 2000. He has passed for 16,564 yards, but has also been released three times -- by the Broncos, Miami and Tampa Bay. "I have confidence in our entire football team," Smith said Monday. "Brian is a part of that. After you have a loss like that, we all feel bad. We should."

Week 4 Power Rankings

Here are my power rankings through week 3.

1) Patriots: 3-0
2) Colts: 3-0
3) Steelers: 3-0
4) Packers: 3-0
5) Cowboys: 3-0
6) Ravens: 2-1
7) Seahawks: 2-1
8) Panthers: 2-1
9) Broncos: 2-1
10) Titans: 2-1
11) Chargers: 1-2
12) Bears: 1-2
13) 49ers: 2-1
14) Jaguars: 2-1
15) Cardinals: 1-2
16) Lions: 2-1
17) Redskins: 2-1
18) Eagles: 1-2
19) Giants: 1-2
20) Texans: 2-1
21) Jets: 1-2
22) Bengals: 1-2
23) Browns: 1-2
24) Bucanneers: 2-1
25) Dolphins: 0-3
26) Saints: 0-3
27) Rams: 0-3
28) Raiders: 1-2
29) Bills: 0-3
30) Vikings: 1-2
31) Kansas City: 1-2
32) Falcons: 0-3

Questions? Comments? Leave a comment or email me at bam@nflrumorz.com

Injury Update 9/26

Westbrook has an abdominal strain and his availability for practice and Sunday's game will be determined later this week. The Eagles will likely keep him out of some practices again to play it safe, leaving Westbrook more time to study game film. "We'll know better in the next day or two," coach Andy Reid said on Monday. "Right now he's pretty sore." Westbrook left in the third quarter Sunday with an injury originally listed as bruised ribs. Reid said Westbrook wasn't hurt on a hit, but instead on a sharp move while running. "It was kind of a freak thing," Reid said. Westbrook had 110 yards rushing and two touchdowns on 14 carries. He also caught five passes for 111 yards and scored on a 43-yard screen pass.

Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Hines Ward said an MRI exam on his bruised knee revealed no damage.Ward, injured in the third quarter of a 37-16 victory over San Francisco on Sunday, walked without a limp while reporting to a team meeting Monday. Ward was hurt when he took a helmet to the knee, forcing him to leave the game. Coach Mike Tomlin said Sunday the preliminary diagnosis was a bone bruise, but the team plans no further injury update until Tuesday. UPDATE: WARD IS DOUBTFUL FOR THIS WEEK'S GAME.

Carolina Panthers quarterback Jake Delhomme loves to move his arms when he talks. Monday was no exception, sore elbow and all. With both arms flailing and nothing protecting his strained right elbow, Delhomme was happy after an MRI determined he won't need surgery. But Delhomme was unsure if he or backup David Carr will start on Sunday against Tampa Bay. "I'll be getting a ton of treatment on it and we'll go from there," Delhomme said. "I've never had anything like this before, so how long it's going to last, I don't know. I usually do OK with treatment and I think my body heals pretty fast." Delhomme was injured late in the third quarter when he was sacked by John Abraham, saying something "didn't feel right" after Abraham tried to grab the ball. Delhomme continued to play, tossing a 5-yard touchdown pass to Jeff King that tied the game. Still, he was concerned. He threw on the sideline when the defense was on the field before deciding to go back out for the next series. Delhomme threw a 29-yard pass over the middle to King, then winced and clutched his elbow after throwing a short pass to Brad Hoover. Delhomme left after that drive and was replaced by David Carr.

St. Louis Rams running back Steven Jackson will miss at least one week with a partial tear of his left groin, an injury sustained in the fourth quarter of Sunday's 24-3 loss at Tampa Bay.

Rookie Brian Leonard, a second-round pick from Rutgers, will get his first start Sunday at Dallas. Coach Scott Linehan said Jackson would be week to week. The 0-3 Rams learned they lost Jackson a day after guard Mark Setterstrom was lost for the season with a torn left knee ligament and cartilage damage. Setterstrom is the second lineman the Rams have lost this season, after seven-time Pro Bowl tackle Orlando Pace injured his shoulder in the opener. Linehan said Jackson, who had 115 yards on 30 carries, was hurt making a cut. He said Jackson stayed in the game for a while after being hurt but said it was "noticeable" that Jackson was injured. Update: Jackson will be out 5-6 weeks.

Jets Get First Win

EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. (AP) -- Chad Pennington stepped into the end zone, spiked the football and then pumped his fist and bumped chests with some teammates. A week after watching from the sideline, the New York Jets quarterback let out all his emotions as he accounted for his third touchdown in Sunday's 31-28 victory over the Miami Dolphins. "Anytime you get into the end zone, it's always a thrill," Pennington said with a big grin. Pennington showed his injured right ankle was feeling a lot better by throwing two touchdown passes and running for another. Pennington was injured in the opener against New England, and backup Kellen Clemens started in his place last Sunday at Baltimore. Clemens had an impressive fourth quarter that left some fans hoping he would see more action soon. Pennington showed this is still his team, going 15-of-22 for 124 yards and moving the offense efficiently. "He's the ultimate competitor," tight end Chris Baker said. Leon Washington returned a kickoff 98 yards for a score, and Thomas Jones had his first big game for the Jets (1-2) by rushing for 110 yards on 25 carries. Ronnie Brown scored on a 22-yard pass from Trent Green with 1:15 left to pull the Dolphins within three points. After Baker was called for batting the ball forward out of bounds on an onside kick attempt to give Miami another opportunity, Eric Smith recovered the ensuing kick to seal the win for the Jets.

P.S. Not to brag, but I did call Thomas Jones' breakout game.

Killings Taken Off Field On Stretcher

Houston Texans defensive tackle Cedric Killings left the field on a stretcher and was taken to a hospital on Sunday after a headfirst collision with Indianapolis receiver Roy Hall.

The 6-foot-3, 310-pound Killings, playing special teams, hit Hall on a block as Jerome Mathis was returning a kickoff in the second quarter. The Texans said Killings suffered a neck injury, but had feeling in his extremities. "It's a scary part of football," said Houston coach Gary Kubiak. "Cedric is a great kid and we're just going to cross our fingers and say some prayers and hope everything is going to be all right." Hall and Killings went down together and Hall walked slowly off the field with trainers helping him. Colts coach Tony Dungy said Hall suffered a shoulder injury. Killings lay motionless as trainers attended to him and a stretcher was wheeled onto the field. Kubiak watched medical personnel strap Killings to the stretcher as players from both sides waited intently. Kubiak said Killings has a deep cut under his right eye. He was moving his arms and legs and speaking as he was being treated on the field, Kubiak said. "Initially, he made a couple of comments that he couldn't feel down low," Kubiak said. "As he laid there and talked to us, he did move everything. He talked to me. His teammates called out to him from a distance and they don't know it, but he was respondent to them."

Packers Become A Legit Threat, Beat The Chargers

Sit Em' Start Em' Week 3- Wide Receivers

Here are three receivers you should start today...

1) Hines Ward- Again I'm saying start Hines Ward because he has the benifit of going up against an easy 49ers defense. As long as Big Ben keeps playing the way he is, Ward should get at least 100 yards and a touchdown. So I would definitely start Hines Ward this week.

2) Javon Walker- This is also the second time I'm saying start Walker. After an OK week two, Walker should bounce back against the Jacksonville Jaguars. The Jaguars have trouble stopping the long ball, so that should be a good thing for a player like Walker who is one of the best catching the deep-shots.

3) Anquan Boldin- After Larry Fitzgerald went public last week saying he doesn't get enough throws, I think Anquan Boldin might just be the reason why. Boldin has had 8 catches for 105 yards and a touchdown, compared to Fitzgerald's 10 catches for 107 yards and no touchdowns. This week the Cardinals are going up against the Baltimore Ravens, so I expect the Ravens to double team Fitzgerald and leave Boldin in single coverage. Boldin should be able to break free a few times, so thats why I would start Anquan Boldin this week.

Here are three receivers you should sit this week...

1) Terrell Owens- This is my risk bench of the week. T.O. already has three touchdowns this season and 184 yards. But he's going up against Nathan Vasher and Charles Tillman of the Chicago Bears defense this week and I just don't think he will do nearly as well as he has the last two weeks against bad defenses (NYG & MIA). If you have another wide receiver that you are comfortable with, start him.

2) Donald Driver- I would bench Driver this week only because I'm worried about how Brett Favre plays. After last week's performance, I would have definitely started Favre and Driver if they were playing against a team like the Lions, but they are playing the Chargers this week. As long as the Packer's offensive line stops Shawn Merriman and Co., The Packers should be just fine. Just as a precaution though, I would bench Driver.

3) Andre Johnson- Well I'll just put this on here just to clarify things. Andre Johnson is HURT and will be out for at least FIVE WEEKS. This injury will most likely end the season for the Texans, as they have no other receivers or offensive playmakers (unless you consider Ahman Green a playmaker still).

NFL RUMORS SUNDAY

Well it's the best day of the week for NFL fans, Sunday! But this week is a little different for me because I'll be at a game today (I won't say it because I'm getting a surprise interview). So since Friday I've been putting all of the start em'/sit em', weekly picks, game of the week, and all of the other posts I usually put up on Sunday. I'll try to get back as soon as I can to do some game wrap-ups and injury reports, and I will also update the site using my phone. So don't worry when you don't see any new posts...just scroll down!

LT Ready To Break Free

Last year's MVP LaDainian Tomlinson (LT) has been somewhat of a dud so far this season only having 35 carries for 68 yards and just one rushing touchdown. He also has 11 receptions for 66 yards and has thrown one touchdown. These numbers don't seem nearly like the player we saw last year who got an NFL record 31 touchdowns and gained 2323 total yards last year. The reason he's doing so poorly has nothing to do with his physical ability, but the schedule the team has. The Chargers got stuck playing the two best defenses in the league two weeks in a row. First, the Chicago bears who stuffed LT for 25 yards and then the Patriots who only let him get 43 yards. But don't worry, this should be the week we see the old LT come back because he's playing the Green Bay Packers who's defense is a very strong one, but struggles against the run at times. Expect LT to finally get his first 100 yard rushing game of the season and a few touchdowns this week.

Week 3 Picks

Here are my picks for week three...

Dolphins @ Jets- Jets

Lions @ Eagles- Eagles

49ers @ Steelers- Steelers

Bills @ Patriots- Patriots

Rams @ Buccaneers- Buccaneers

Cardinals @ Ravens- Ravens

Colts @ Texans- Colts

Chargers @ Packers- Packers

Vikings @ Chiefs- Vikings

Browns @ Raiders- Browns

Jaguars @ Broncos- Jaguars

Bengals @ Seahawks- Seahawks

Giants @ Redskins- Redskins

Panthers @ Falcons- Panthers

Cowboys @ Bears- Cowboys

Titans @ Saints- Saints

Sit Em' Start Em' Week 3- Running Backs

Here are some runningbacks you might want to start this week...

1) Joseph Addai- Addai should break out for a hundred yards plus this week and probably a few touchdowns because he's going against the rancid Houston Texans defense. As long as Addai stays out of Mario Williams' way, he should be good to go.

2) Thomas Jones- Jones has not been 100% healthy since the superbowl last year, but this week looks to be the week that Jones starts to feel better, and he might be able to get a few scores against the Miami Dolphins. Only start Jones if you are in a two runningback league and you are confident in your other back.

3) Shaun Alexander- Alexander is going up against the Bengals defense who let Jamal Lewis run for over two hundred yards. Now this of what a more versatile, but just as strong back like Alexander will do to the Cinci defense.

Here are the running backs you should sit this week...

1) Marion Barber III- Barber still isn't the starting runningback for the Cowboys, but is by far the best one. Barber has been a touchdown machine, but this week that will all end for him because he's playing the Chicago Bears defense. The Bears have shut down two of the top three runningbacks already this season (LT and LJ).

2) Julius Jones- Same reason as Marion Barber, he's playing the Bears.

3) Marshawn Lynch- Lynch is definitely another runningback you want to keep on your bench this week...the reason, he's going up against the New England Patriots defense who like the Bears have shut down very good running backs (LT, Thomas Jones).

Sit Em' Start Em' Week 3- Quarterbacks

Okay here are my three quarterbacks you needs to start this week...

1) Ben Roethlisberger: Big Ben is playing the easy 49ers defense this week so this should be a pretty obvious start. Ben has thrown 5 touchdowns already with only one interception. Wide receivers Hines Ward and Santonio Holmes have been on fire lately so this should be a great game for Berger. Start him!

2) Jay Cutler: This is a more risky start, but if you have him on the bench and you don't have a stud like Tom Brady at QB I would start Cutler. Cutler is going up against the Jacksonville Jaguars defense which is notorious for allowing a lot of passing yards. Another major blow to the Jaguars defense is losing probowl defensive tackle John Henderson.

3) Jake Delhomme: After last week's performance, there should be no further questioning about Jake Delhomme's ability to lead the Panthers offense. Delhomme has thrown two consecutive three touchdown games and has a QB rating of 112. Not to mention that he's playing against the Atlanta Falcons who's defense has been atrocious so far this year.

Three quarterbacks to bench this week...

1) Brett Favre: After a great performance last week against the New York Giants where he threw for 3 touchdowns and over took John Elway's record for having the most victories by a quarterback, this might be a good time to trade Favre, or bench him until he plays the Vikings and Lions. Favre is going up against the San Diego Chargers defense (aka Sean Merriman) and the Packer's offensive line has struggled to give Favre time to throw the ball. The question is will Favre get the record for most career interceptions (needs 2) or the touchdown record (needs 3) first?

2) Steve McNair: Ouch! It has been just painful to watch the Ravens offense this season who are ranked 23rd overall in passing yards. Steve McNair was questionable all week long with groin problems but is now declared starting this week against the Cardinals. It won't help McNair much without star offensive tackle Jonathan Ogden is still out for the second consecutive week with a nagging turf toe injury. McNair is definitely a QB you want to bench this week.

3) Matt Schuab- After a performance last week that started to make Texan fans think they might actually have a chance of going .500 this year, this might be the week that the real Texans come out an play. The Texans are going against the Colts and it is not going to be pretty for the Houston offense. Schuab will have to play without probowl wide receiver Andre Johnson, who sprained his knee last week. Johnson has caught fourteen passes this year for 262 yards and three scores. Good luck Schuab!

Game Of The Week (Key Matchup)

Here's my pick for game of the week...

Dallas Cowboys at Chicago Bears (8:15 et. NBC)

My prediction: Cowboys 24 - Bears 17

Here's what the Bears need to win...

1) Rex Grossman to have one of his 100+ passer rating games, and low or no turnovers
2) Cedric Benson to run for 100 yards+ and get at least a touchdown
3) Hope the Cowboys are dumb enough to kick to Devin Hester
4) The defense to stay dominant and blitz Romo...a lot
5) Stop T.O.

Here's what the Cowboys need to win...

1) The offensive line needs to step up and give Romo time
2) T.O. needs to get involved a lot
3) Marion Barber needs to get more carries, but change it up with Julius Jones every few downs, the Bears have been able to stop power rushers, so changing it up with a speedy Jones should help mix things up.
4) Don't kick to Devin Hester
5) Blitz Grossman... a lot, and hope he has another 0% passer rating game.

Lawson Out For Season

The San Francisco 49ers suffered their first major injury blow of the season Thursday when they learned linebacker Manny Lawson was lost for the season because of a torn ACL. Lawson suffered the knee injury late in practice Wednesday and a subsequent MRI revaled the tear. He will require season-ending surgery and will eventually be placed on the injured reserve list. "I heard a pop, and I remember what (teammate) C.J. Brewer had talked about when he (injured his knee), so I was nervous," Lawson told the team's Web site. "I tried to test it out, but really I just had to wait for the MRI." Lawson was a first-round draft pick in 2006 who signed a five-year deal worth a maximum value of $10.14 million. In 16 games as a rookie, including 11 starts, Lawson had 57 tackles, 2½ sacks, one interception and two passes defensed.
Source: ESPN.com

Fitzgerald Might Be Leaving Soon

Only two regular-season games into the Ken Whisenhunt era, rumors already are flying receiver Larry Fitzgerald is looking to leave the Arizona Cardinals when his rookie contract ends. Fitzgerald, as the rumor goes, is not a big fan of Whisenhunt's run-based offense, and for good reason. Fitzgerald currently is averaging only five catches and 53.5 yards per game, which puts him on pace for 80 receptions and 856 receiving yards for the season. He currently has no receiving touchdowns in 2007.

Source: Yahoo Sports

Holcomb Likely To Start

Barring a miraculous recovery by Minnesota Vikings starting quarterback Tarvaris Jackson, Kelly Holcomb will get the start for at least one week. People with knowledge of the situation said the 11-year veteran got the most work with the first team during Wednesday's practice at Winter Park.

Source: Star Tribune

What Will The Bears Do?

There is a major issue going on right now with the Chicago Bears and the issue is what to do with Rex Grossman. Grossman has been awful so far this season, completing 32 out of 50 passes (56%) for 305 yards, one touchdown, and three interceptions (which is a passer rating of 55.1). The Bears need to get rid of Grossman and get Griese in, but the only problem with that is that it has been reported that Kyle Orton has shown up Griese in practices so the Bears have a major quarterback controversy on there hands.

Can The Patriots Go Undefeated?

Well everyone's starting to say it but can it really happen? Can the New England Patriots actually go undefeated for only the second time in the history of the NFL, (also done by the 72' Dolphins). In my opinion, No, the Patriots are a very very dominant team but there might be a loss or two coming up later in the season. Here's the schedule and next to each game I'll put in a (W) or (L) meaning win or loss (what I predict), [already played].

Week
1- @ Jets [W]
2- vs Chargers [W]
3- vs Bills (W)
4- @ Bengals (W)
5- vs Browns (W)
6- @ Cowboys (W)
7- @ Dolphins (W)
8- vs Redskins (W)
9- @ Colts (L)
10- BYE
11- @ Bills (W)
12- vs Eagles (W)
13- @ Ravens (W)
14- vs Steelers (L)
15- vs Jets (W)
16- vs Dolphins (W)
17- @ Giants (W)

Season- 14-2

T.O. Fined For TD dance

After seeing the videotape of Terrell Owens' latest touchdown celebration, the NFL office wasn't laughing. Owens said Wednesday he was fined "a good chunk of money" -- which he later defined as thousands of dollars -- for a celebration that included him using the goal post and football to poke fun at the New England Patriots' spying scandal during Dallas' 37-20 victory over Miami this past Sunday. A league spokesman said the fine was $7,500. "It wasn't even the fact I used the goal post as a prop," Owens said. "They said I used the ball." Beyond being confused about what he can and can't do, Owens is frustrated by the league's policing of end-zone scenes. "It's kind of hard to understand the rules," he said. "It's like you can't do nothing no more. ... Dude, it's like they're trying to find any way to take fun out of the game. So I'm kind of limited right now as far as what I can do." T.O. plotted his celebration days before, after getting suggestions from callers on his weekly radio show. He said he likes making them timely. Now, though, he's going to be more careful with what he does. "Nothing's worth getting a fine for," he said. Owens said he'll consider an appeal, but "it may not even be worth it." How about saving his act until he gets to the sideline? "I guess so," he said. "Next, they're going to be saying you can't go to the sidelines."

Dolphins Will Look To Trade Taylor

The Miami Dolphins, barring an unexpected rebound, are several years and multiple solid drafts away from being a contending team. The first two games this season have proven Miami cannot run the ball and cannot stop the run, which in football jargon means the Dolphins have zero chance to win many games. Miami Herald columnist Armando Salguero suggested it might be time to dangle defensive end Jason Taylor as trade bait. Salguero wrote: "So it simply makes sense for this team to dangle Taylor between now and Oct. 16 (NFL trading deadline), or, failing that, try to trade the face of their defense after this season. It is not only the smart thing, but also the right thing to do.''

Coughlin On Hot Seat

With the New York Giants off to their first 0-2 start in more than a decade, this year's Tom Coughlin Watch can officially start. This is not the way for Coughlin to go about saving his job. It's never good when two games into the season the coach is already saying everybody is "embarrassed."

Source: Yahoo Sports

Falcons Sign Leftwich

The Atlanta Falcons signed former Jacksonville quarterback Byron Leftwich on Tuesday, giving the team immediate depth and a potential contender for the starting job. "First of all, I'm a football player and the last couple of weeks have been tough on me," said Leftwich, who was cut the week before the season by the Jaguars. "I appreciate the opportunity and I look forward to doing whatever I can to help our team." Leftwich's agent, Tom Condon, said the former first-round draft pick passed a physical, worked out for the team and signed a two-year, $7 million deal. The 27-year-old Leftwich is set to join the Falcons for Wednesday's practice. The Falcons needed help. Joey Harrington, who took over as the starter when Michael Vick was suspended by the NFL, has lost his first two starts with Atlanta and the offense has scored only 10 points. Harrington's other backup is Chris Redman, who has not played in an NFL game since 2003.

Tank To Cowboys

Tank Johnson said Monday night he expects to play for the Dallas Cowboys upon returning from his eight-game NFL suspension. "I'm here to work some things out. I'm looking here for a fresh start," Johnson said when reached in his room at the hotel where the Cowboys stay before home games. Earlier on Monday, a high-ranking team source said there have been lengthy discussions among members of the team's coaching staff and owner Jerry Jones about Johnson's off-field problems and his playing ability. The Cowboys or any team would be able to sign Johnson during his suspension but he cannot work out or have contact with a team until he serves his suspension in its entirety.

Miller Out For Year

The Jets are 0-2 to start the season and now might have to play the rest of the year without Pro Bowl kick returner Justin Miller. The Star Ledger of Newark, N.J. and The New York Daily News, citing anonymous sources, reported Tuesday that Miller will miss the rest of the 2007 season with ligament damage in his right knee. Miller, who also is a backup cornerback, was hurt in a pileup in the second quarter of the Jets' 20-13 loss to the Ravens on Sunday. "It's as serious as it can get," the source told the Star Ledger. In his second season, the speedy Miller earned his first Pro Bowl selection after leading the league with 28.3 yards per kickoff return. He returned two kickoffs for touchdowns: a team record 103-yarder against Indianapolis and a 99-yarder at Cleveland in 2006.

Video Of The Week

Well after that great Bengals/Browns game and Chad Johnson (Ocho-Cinco)'s great game, I decided to put up the famous video of him beating a horse in a race. Enjoy. Also, I have been getting emails about showing plays from games, but that is illegal and an NFL rep has contacted me through email about the limitations of using the NFL video footage, photos, news, and logos so I'm just trying to be careful.

Johnson Doubtful This Week

Houston Texan receiver Andre Johnson is doubtful for this week's game against the Colts after suffering a left knee injury against the Panthers yesterday. Johnson was able to walk off the field by himself but he was limping. He had seven catches for 120 yards and two touchdowns in yesterday's game and is the #4 overall wide receiver in the NFL right now statistically. Fantasy meaning: This could have a major impact on the fantasy value of Matt Schaub because Johnson is really the only receiver the Texans have.

Kitna Thankful To Be Okay

Detroit quarterback Jon Kitna was one of the NFL's most thankful players Monday. Kitna was knocked out of the game against Minnesota on Sunday with a concussion, only to return and lead the Lions to an overtime win over the Vikings. "I've never felt anything like that, and for it to clear up and go right back to as normal as I can be, is nothing short of a miracle," Kitna said Monday. "I just definitely feel the hand of God. That's all it was. You can't explain it. "I have no headaches, no symptoms, no lingering effects. But that was the worst my head has ever felt, and the worse my memory was in the second quarter. Yet, after halftime there was nothing." Kitna said it was the third concussion of his NFL career, and the first since 2001.

Fisher Re-Signs

Titans owner Bud Adams said more than a year ago that coach Jeff Fisher wouldn't be going anywhere. On Monday, the NFL's longest-tenured coach with his current team said he hopes to finish his career in Tennessee. Adams picked up the 2007 option on Fisher's contract at the end of last season, and an extension had been expected since then. Fisher said they finally worked out the last details last week. "Never at any time was I of the opinion it was not going to get done," Fisher said. "What was most important to me was the team and the players and winning games." Fisher is in his 13th season with the franchise that used to be the Houston Oilers. He originally was promoted from defensive coordinator to interim head coach in November 1994 and had the interim tag removed after that season ended. He coached his 200th regular season game with the Titans in Sunday's 22-20 loss to Indianapolis. He is 18-32 since the team's last playoff berth and winning record in 2003.

(AP)

Weekly Leaders

There were some huge games today so here are this week's statistical leaders so far (not including Sunday night or Monday night games).

QB-
1) Carson Palmer- 33/50, 401 yds, 6 tds, 2 int, 113.4 rating
2) Marc Bulger- 24/41, 368 yds, 1 td, 0 int, 96.4 rating
3) Derek Anderson- 20/33, 328 yds, 5 tds, 1 int, 121.0 rating
4) Peyton Manning- 28/42, 312 yds, 1 td, 1 int, 86.6 rating
5) Jake Delhomme- 27/41, 307 yds, 3 td, 1 int, 102.4 rating
*) Brett Favre- 29/38, 286 yds, 3 td, 1 int, 112.4 rating *Most winningest QB in NFL history.

RB-
1) Jamal Lewis- 28 carries, 215 yds, 1 td, 66 long
2) LaMont Jordan- 25 carries, 159 yds, 0 td, 33 long
3) Edgerrin James- 24 carries, 128 yds, 1 td, 17 long

WR-
1) Chad Johnson- 11 catches, 209 yards, 2 tds
2) Jericho Cotchery- 7 catches, 165 yards, 0 tds
3) Steve Smith- 8 catches, 153 yards, 3 tds

There were eight players with a passer rating over 100.00 this week.
The worst starting quarterback was Rex Grossman (20/34, 160 yds, 1 td, 2 int)

Injury Update

Jon Kitna left the Lions-Vikings game early in the third quarter and was replaced by backup J.T. O'Sullivan. Kitna had thrown the ball 36 times with 17 completions, 192 yards, a touchdown and an interception before he left. It is unclear what is wrong with him (but he is injured). Check back for the injury update.

Shoot Out In Cleveland

This was a high-flying, high-scoring show even Chad Johnson and all his props couldn't top. Derek Anderson threw five touchdown passes, Jamal Lewis rushed for 215 yards and the Cleveland Browns, so desperate after losing their home opener they traded their starting quarterback, outlasted the Cincinnati Bengals and Carson Palmer 51-45 on Sunday. Palmer tossed a career-high six TDs, but his final chance to rally the Bengals (1-1) ended when he was intercepted with 21 seconds left by Cleveland cornerback Leigh Bodden, who made a diving grab near Cleveland's sideline. One week ago, Anderson was backing up Charlie Frye before being brought in during the first half when the Browns (1-1) were blown out and embarrassed 34-7 by the Pittsburgh Steelers. Two days later, the Browns dealt Frye to the Seattle Seahawks, becoming the first team since the AFL/NFL merger to trade its season-opening quarterback before Week 2. Cleveland's plan was for Anderson to hold down the starting job until rookie Brady Quinn was ready. That plan, too, may be scrapped following Anderson's breakout performance. It was just the third time in NFL history that two QBs threw five TD passes in the same game. Oakland's Tom Flores (6) and Houston's George Blanda (5) both did it on Dec. 22, 1963, and Billy Kilmer of New Orleans (6) and Charley Johnson of St. Louis (6) also did on Nov, 5, 1969. The teams combined for 96 points, 1,085 offensive yards and just five punts.

Source: Cleveland (AP)

Rams Lose A Winable Game

It was the kind of simple catch Dante' Hall has made many times, camped under a punt, his arm waving for a fair catch. This time, late in the fourth quarter Sunday, he dropped it. Marcus Hudson recovered for San Francisco, setting up the winning field goal in the 49ers' 17-16 win over St. Louis. The Rams' Jeff Wilkins missed a 56-yard field goal try with 59 seconds to play, the ball falling about a yard short of the goal post. The 49ers (2-0) won despite struggling offensively most of the game. St. Louis had 392 total yards to 186 for San Francisco. Alex Smith was 11-for-17 for 126 yards. Frank Gore scored two touchdowns and gained 81 yards on 20 carries, most of those coming on a play that helped turn the game around late in the third quarter.

Source: St. Louis (AP)

Giants vs Packers Recap, Favre Gets New Record

Brett Favre picked a near-perfect way to become the winningest quarterback in NFL history. Favre hit his first 14 passes of the second half and threw three touchdown passes to rally the Green Bay Packers to a 35-13 victory over Eli Manning and the New York Giants on Sunday. The victory was the 149th of Favre's 17-year career and gave him one more than Hall of Famer John Elway. It also gave the Packers their first 2-0 start since they won their first three in 2001. The loss was the second straight for the undisciplined and error-prone Giants, something that hasn't happened at the start of a season since 1996 -- the year Dan Reeves got fired. Tom Coughlin, who came into the season under pressure to do more than make the playoffs, may now be really under the gun. Favre threw a go-ahead 2-yard touchdown pass to Bubba Franks on the Packers' opening series of the second half. The eight-time Pro Bowl quarterback added TD tosses of 3 yards to Donald Lee and 10 yards to Donald Driver after New York rookie Ahmad Bradshaw fumbled the ensuing kickoff. Favre finished 29-of-38 for 286 yards, including 18-of-21 for 147 yards in the second half as he constantly exposed the Giants' suspect defense with short passes. Rookie DeShawn Wynn added touchdown runs of 6 and 38 yards for Green Bay. Manning, whose playing status was uncertain all week because of a sprained shoulder, played well, leading New York to scores on three consecutive series bridging the second and third quarters. He threw a 26-yard touchdown pass to Plaxico Burress and helped set up field goals of 48 and 32 yards by Lawrence Tynes, who also missed a 34-yarder on the opening series of the game. Manning finished 16-of-29 for 211 yards. He threw a costly interception to defensive tackle Corey Williams with 6:35 to play. Backup Jared Lorenzen replaced Manning after Wynn's long touchdown run gave Green Bay a 35-13 lead.

Written by NY (AP).

Manning Makes The Bad Decision

Well Eli Manning made the bad decision... Giants quarterback Eli Manning, who was hurt in the fourth quarter of New York's loss to the Cowboys in Week 1, told ESPN's Sal Paolantonio that he will start Sunday against the Packers. Manning plans to wear a pad over his sprained right shoulder. On Friday, Manning took some snaps with the Giants' first unit for the first time all week. He split time with Jared Lorenzen, who would have started at quarterback Sunday if Manning wasn't able to go. Maybe Eli is trying to play more like his brother Peyton or the guy he's playing against today the man of steel Brett Favre.

Goodell Orders Pats To Give Him All Spy Tapes

NFL commissioner Roger Goodell has ordered the New England Patriots to turn over all videotape, files and notes relating to all their activity that resulted in the disciplinary action of coach Bill Belichick and the franchise, according to sources familiar with the details of Goodell's private communication with the team. If the Patriots are not compliant, the commissioner is prepared to impose even greater sanctions, the sources said. Goodell alluded to the league's position when he made his decision public to discipline the Patriots when he stated that the NFL would "review" and "monitor" the team's videotaping procedures, effective immediately. Privately, the commissioner was more specific in his demands and expectations with Patriots owner Robert Kraft when the two men spoke Thursday, sources said. The action is being taken because Belichick all but conceded to the commissioner that his interpretation of the rules allowed him to use videotape of opposing team hand signals for future games but not on game day, sources said. The commissioner rejected that interpretation and was aware that there had been other incidents involving the Patriots in recent years. If Goodell discovers that Belichick and the team has copied the files without disclosure to the NFL, the consequences will be significant, sources said. Now if the Patriots are caught with tape copies, the penalties will be really, really bad.

Source: AP/ESPN

Who Will Have The Best Game This Week/Questions?

Who will have the best game this week? Leave a comment on the post or email me at bam@nflrumorz.com If you have any questions about player injuries, status, etc just leave a comment here or you can still email me at bam@nflrumorz.com

Three To Start

QB- I'm going to have to say Jon Kitna this week. Kitna had a pretty good week last week against the best pass defense in the league last year the Oakland Raiders. This week, he's playing against one of the worst pass defenses in the league, the Minnesota Vikings. I would say a few Calvin Johnson and Roy William TD's and around 300+ yards.

RB- Brandon Jackson (yes again). Yes I know I said Jackson would have a good week last week but I think it's going to be even better this week. Jackson was the ESPN favorite to win offensive player of the year and it's time for him to show what he's got. The Packers are playing the horrible NY Giants defense, so this Packer offense should do pretty well this week. I would be willing to bet Jackson gets his first and second NFL touchdowns in this game and rushes for over 100 yards.

WR- Torry Holt should be a solid pick this week going against the 49ers defense. Marc Bulger should be passing a lot today because the 49ers are usually pretty good at shutting down the run, so Steven Jackson might not be the best start this week either. Put in Holt, you should probably get a touchdown or two out of him.

TE- Antonio Gates*, enough said. *(But he is playing against the Patriots defense so it could be a little risk)

Dangerous Players (Don't Start)

Here are my 3 guys that you should NOT start today...

QB- Eli Manning- Manning will try to go today against the Green Bay Packers but this is s huge risk for any fantasy owner with him on his team. Manning hurt his shoulder last week against the Cowboys and has been going to practice all week but it would just be stupid to start him against the Green Bay defense that pretty much shut down Donovan McNabb last week.

RB- Thomas Jones- Jones is also injured but will try to play this week. Last week was a nightmare for him against the Patriots where he only got 42 yards on 14 carries and no touchdowns. This week shouldn't be any better for him because he's playing the Ravens defense which is better at rushing than the Patriots defense is. Do not start.

WR- Plaxico Burress- Yes Burress had an umbelievable game last week against the Cowboys but I'm pretty sure that won't happen two weeks in a row, especially because quarterback Eli Manning is questionable and Burress will be matched up with one of the best cornerbacks in the league Al Harris. The best thing you can do right now with Burress is try to trade him for a very good, constant other fantasy player or two.

Defense- Cleveland Defense- If you somehow have Cleveland defense make sure you pick up some other bad defense like the Texans or something. Cleveland is playing against the Bengals this week and it is not going to be a pretty game for the Browns. Get Quinn in!

Culpepper Ready To Go

Daunte Culpepper is expected to start at quarterback for the Oakland Raiders on Sunday against Denver after Josh McCown left practice early Friday with a sore foot. McCown sprained his right foot in the first half of the season opener against Detroit last Sunday and missed practice Wednesday because of the injury. He was able to practice Thursday, but was sore when he arrived at the team's facility Friday and could not finish practice. McCown is listed as doubtful. "We're going to have to see when he wakes up tomorrow," coach Lane Kiffin said. "I'm anticipating Daunte starting for us. We'll go day-to-day with it." McCown got the nod in the opener based on his better knowledge of the offense and went 30-for-40 for 313 yards and two touchdowns in a 36-21 loss to the Lions. He also threw two interceptions and fumbled late in the game to kill the Raiders' attempt at a comeback. Culpepper, who signed with the team July 31, started four games for Miami last season before being sidelined with a knee injury. Culpepper is a former Pro Bowler, throwing 39 TD passes in 2004 when he was in Minnesota. He has been slowed by knee injuries the past two seasons, when he has committed 18 turnovers while throwing only 18 TD passes.

Source: Yahoo Sports

New and Old Bear Rumors

There could be a new member joining the Chicago Bears soon... It has been reported that the Bears are interested in "retired" running back Corey Dillon. Here's what his agent said: ‘‘If the right team called, there might be interest,'' said Steve Feldman, the agent for the 32-year-old running back. ‘‘Chicago is definitely a right team.'' The Bears may look to add Dillion because of the poor showing of Cedric Benson last week and the lack of depth. In other news, and old Bear member may be getting signed soon. The Dallas Cowboys have been reportedly interested in signing ex-Bears defensive tackle Tank Johnson who is currently serving an eight game suspension for violating the NFL's personal conduct policy.

Players To Watch

Here is one player from each major fantasy catagory that you should watch this week...

QB- Jon Kitna: Kitna this week is playing against the poor Vikings pass defense. The Lions are all pass offense so this should be a good game for Jon Kitna. Kitna has Roy Williams, Mike Furrey, and Calvin Johnson as huge offensive threats, and the Vikings really only have Darren Sharper as their only star pass defender. I'm predicting 250 yards+ and at least two TDs (probably more) from Kitna.

RB- Maurice Jones-Drew: MJD should have a pretty good game this week against that Falcons defense. In the last game, the Falcons let up 5.1 yards per carry against the Vikings and rookie running back Adrian Peterson, so a more experienced NFL back like Jones-Drew should get some major yards. David Garrard was also shaky last week against the Titans so watch MJD get some more carries this week.

WR- Donald Driver- The Packers are playing the New York Giants this week, and I'm expecting Brett Favre to have his first good game, and the only way for that to happen is for Favre to start passing more to Driver. After we saw Favre pass 42 times last week, we might even see more passes this week, especially to his wide receivers because the Packers only have one tight end (Bubba Franks). Expect Driver to get 100+ yards and a touchdown or two this week.

TE- Antonio Gates- LT threw the first, and only touchdown pass this season so far to tight end Antonio Gates against the Bears last week. This week they are playing the New England Patriots who are a tougher rush-defense but a weaker pass defense. As long as Adalius Thomas stays away, Gates could be a big factor in this game.

Defense- Chicago Bears- The Bears held the NFL's best running back LT to only 25 yards and one touchdown (which was a pass!). This week they are playing the third best running back just behind Steven Jackson, Larry Johnson. Watch the Bears just shut down LJ this week, and force the Chiefs to pass. The Chiefs passing game is not looking very good with wide receiver Eddie Kennison out for the game and starting rookie receiver Dwayne Bowe. I predict three Bears interceptions and a whole lot of fumbles and sacks.

This Week's Picks

Here are my picks for this week's games...

1) Bengals at Browns- Bengals
2) Bills at Steelers- Steelers
3) Saints at Buccaneers- Saints
4) Texans at Panthers- Panthers
5) Falcons at Jaguars- Jaguars
6) Colts at Titans- Colts
7) 49ers at Rams- Rams
8) Packers at Giants- Packers
9) Seahawks at Cardinals- Seahawks
10) Vikings at Lions- Lions
11) Cowboys at Dolphins- Cowboys
12) Jets at Ravens- Jets
13) Raiders at Broncos- Broncos
14) Chiefs at Bears- Bears
15) Chargers at Patriots- Patriots
16) Redskins at Eagles- Eagles

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What Do You Think About The Cheating?

Well hopefully you have heard by now that the Patriots were proved to have been cheating in the first game of the season vs the Jets, and they probably have been cheating every game for the last few seasons dating back to the year they won the superbowl against the Eagles. Roger Goodell made a decision to fine Bill Belichick $500 thousand dollars and the Patriots organization $200 thousand dollars. They also will lose their first round pick if they make it to the playoffs, but if they don't make the playoffs they would lose their 2nd and 3rd round picks. So what do you think the penalty should have been against the Patriots? Was it too severe/not severe enough? Email me your thoughts at bam@nflrumorz.com or leave a comment on the post!

Williams Ready For Another Comeback

Bad news for NFL linebackers, good news for soap opera fans: Ricky Williams is planning another comeback. The suspended running back is eligible to seek reinstatement by the NFL after Oct. 1 and will do so, his attorney said Friday. In recent years, Williams has made more headlines than first downs, playing in only 12 NFL games since the start of the 2004 season. His current suspension began in April 2006 after he violated the league's drug policy for the fourth time, and a positive test for marijuana this April delayed his return. Williams' attorney, David Cornwell, said they spoke by phone Thursday. "He sounds wonderful," Cornwell said. "He sounds like he's in a great place, and I'm confident that will come through to the commissioner." It's uncertain how quickly the 30-year-old Williams might be cleared to return -- or where he would play. He remains under contract with Miami, where he won the NFL rushing title in 2002, but first-year Dolphins coach Cam Cameron has given no indication he wants Williams.

(AP)

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