Hey folks…do you have your checklist of things to do before kickoff? I don’t mean chores around the house. We’re talking about fantasy football selections and we need to get to it earlier this week with the traditional Thursday night game to open the season. Let’s see now. We’ve researched every team and player, analyzed the tendencies of the other “owners” in our league, drafted a solid roster and are now ready to begin making Week 1′s picks.
The first week of every season is often filled with unsubstantiated expectations for every team and their fans. Of course, only half the teams can win each week. What’s most important is HOW they win and WHO they utilize to do so. If I were that good of a handicapper, I’d be living the high life on some island without a care in the world. Sadly, I don’t have that proverbial crystal ball so take heed – my advice isn’t always perfect. But I can give you some information and observations to ponder when it’s time for you to make your weekly roster.
At quarterback, I like Tony Romo and Eli Manning to put up sound numbers against two defenses that, at least initially, do not impress. Also, for those having to take lower round selections, take a flyer on Kevin Kolb (the game versus Green Bay should be high scoring and the Packers’ secondary is very banged up) or Jason Campbell (he may actually enjoy a decent season out west). All indications are that the Skins will start McNabb against Dallas. Do you all remember what happened the last two times he faced the Cowboys? And I believe the starting cast in Philly was better than he has in Washington. Sit him, plain and simple.
Running backs pose a bit of a guessing game this week. You know the “superstars” will get their touches but opponents will likely key on them which will make yards a lot tougher to come by. I’m putting my faith in Frank Gore against a Seattle defense that is very porous. Coach Singletary loves to control the action with his running game so this is a perfect fit. I also like Cedric Benson (the Pats lost defensive leadership and teams will have to respect both wideouts). Also, take a run at Brandon Jacobs who has come under fire recently for not living up to his past performances. Against Carolina, the G-Men will have numerous chances to run a balanced attack. I also expect Beanie Wells and Steven Jackson to contribute nicely to their teams’ offensive output. If you have either Joseph Addai or Clinton Portis, I’d sit them. Houston’s offense should dictate how often Peyton Manning needs to throw, i.e. I believe it will be a higher scoring game than most. Dallas should have a field day knowing there aren’t many “go to” guys on Washington.
Look like I said…week 1 can be a difficult time to anticipate each player’s production. The balance of your roster is no exception. Go with Randy Moss, Brandon Marshall, and Jeremy Maclin at wide receiver. Stay away from Braylon Edwards and Chad Ochocinco. At tight end, Brent Celek, Jason Witten and Antonio Gates are top picks and should perform accordingly this week. I don’t like Jeremy Shockey or Heath Miller.
If you’ve read my past articles, you know my philosophy about kickers. Always go with experience. That being said, I like Jeff Reed, Ryan Longwell and Garrett Hartley. And lastly, and probably most demonstratively, I take the Ravens and the Cowboys defensive units.
So there you have it. I’ve climbed out on the limb for all to see. If these picks work out, I’m a brilliant fantasy football genius (for one week). If not, I blame it all on the planets being misaligned, a shift in the moon’s gravity, a really bad fever I contracted, or whatever else will get me into week 2. Enjoy the games and let me know how you all did. Your feedback is what makes this so much fun…..
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by: bdawkinsfan
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