The Observer, September 28, 2007
Volume XL, Issue 5
Fantasy Tips: Week 4
Each year, every team has a fighting chance to make it to the big game. Every week there are so many nail biters that you have to tape your fingers. Last year the Saints were able to go 10-6 and make it to the NFC Championship game after winning only three games the year before. Now they're struggling to find themselves and win number one. Tennessee could be this year's version of the Saints. When they are at the halfway point of the season with only two losses, like I project them to be, the what-ifs are going to creep in to everyone's minds; what if this is the year of the Titans? For fantasy freaks, surprises like these are horrible. Who could have predicted the two top picks from last year, L.T. and L.J., to have racked up only 270 yards and 1 TD combined! Once again, here are some picks that might help out your team until these giants quit playing like little people.
QBs
Phillip Rivers, San Diego Chargers – Struggling in the run game, the pressure is going to go onto River's right shoulder. Last year, the Chargers were able to pound the ball with Tomlinson and then count on Rivers to complete passes against man coverage once defenses had to bring eight in the box. This year the opposite might begin. Rivers is going to have to make completions early on and make more throws for defenses to respect the pass in order to get L.T. going, because without the spectacular running game of last year, San Diego hasn't been impressive. START.
RBs
Steven Jackson, Saint Louis Rams – Down goes Jackson. After multiple injuries to the offensive line and the team revealing that Marc Bulger has been playing with two broken ribs, Jackson has sustained a groin tear, benching him for three weeks. Once the 'greatest show on turf,' the Ram's offense has become conservative due to Bulger's injury, and now the Rams have lost their top weapon. Replacing Jackson in the backfield is former Rutgers standout Brian Leonard. He was impressive in college, but that doesn't always translate to the pros. I would say he is worth a bench spot if you're struggling to find a solid running back, but I wouldn't put all my eggs in his basket. BENCH/PICK UP.
WRs
Dwayne Bowe, Kansas City Chiefs – Due to injuries, this rookie is becoming a top target for Damon Huard. With two touchdowns in the past two weeks and another that was called back against the Bears, Bowe has been putting up fantasy points worthy of a third WR spot. Projected to start even when Eddie Kennison returns from his injury, Bowe's numbers are expected to increase steadily through the season. SLEEPER.
TEs
Greg Olsen, Chicago Bears – This guy has the potential to rise to the upper echelon of tight ends in the league. Olsen has speed unusual to his position that helps him separate from linebackers/safeties forced to cover him. With the Bears offense struggling, the quarterback, whether it be Greise or Grossman, will be looking for his tight end as a big target in the middle field. SLEEPER.
