| NFL | |
|
NFL Mock Draft 2009 Draft of 2009 Lacks Star Power NFL Draft 2009: Getting Started Super Bowl Well Worth Tuning In For
|
| NBA | |
|
Prospects On Center Stage NBA Preview 2008/09: Final Call
|
|
2008 Fantasy Preview: Running Backs By Ric Atkinson I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again: “Running Backs will make or break your fantasy team.” The scarcity of elite backs and the fact that every fantasy league requires a team to start at least two of them turns them into the ultimate difference makers. That being said, brace yourself for our rankings. We refuse to give the same boring, generic rankings that everyone else gives. Too many times, the rankings for the upcoming season are based on what happened the year before. Every year is a new year, as you can go back and look at the top running backs in previous seasons to see all new faces each and every year. Your first reaction will be shock, but take a minute to let the rankings and the rationale behind it to sink in. Here goes: Running Backs: 1. LaDainian Tomlinson, Chargers: When all is said and done, he’s still the number 1 player in fantasy football. He will consistently give you big numbers. Changes in the O-line and the loss of his fullback may make it difficult to match last year’s numbers, but he is still the safest and best pick. He should be number one on your draft board. 2. Stephen Jackson, Rams: Injuries hurt his performance last year, but this is a contract year for Jackson. Look for him to step up his numbers in order to get paid. 3. Brian Westbrook, Eagles: If he played wide receiver he would be an elite level WR. As it is, he’ll get WR looks in the passing game (90 receptions last year), plus 275+ rushing attempts. In a point-per-reception league (PPR) he moves up to #2. 4. Adrain Peterson, Vikings: I see AP as a big risk/reward draft pick. The big risks seem to be injury and a lack of consistent fantasy production. Of course the reward side is big fantasy points. The reassuring side of the equation is Vikings incredible O-line headed up by Steve Hutchinson. 5. Joseph Addai, Colts: Addai is the featured back in a high-octane offense. He will get his carries and red zone looks. He is solid back and will give you consistent numbers. One caveat, you have to worry that the Colts will rest Addai during the fantasy playoffs if they have the playoff spot locked up. 6. Marion Barber III, Cowboys: Barber is now the unquestioned #1 option in Dallas’ running game. This is what he has been waiting for and it’s his time to shine. 7. Clinton Portis, Redskins: Last year, there were concerns that Portis was starting to decline and might not be the feature back in Washington by seasons end. However, 325 carries, 1262 yards, and 11 TDs later, Portis performed like a top ten fantasy back. With a new West Coast offense in place, Portis should put up even better numbers this year. 8. Jamal Lewis, Browns: Most people wouldn’t have Lewis this high, but a good look at his numbers (See: Ron’s “Crunching The Numbers” article) show what a value he really is. If you can get Lewis as your #2 RB you will have a very solid fantasy team. 9. Frank Gore, 49ers: Huge talent + featured position in a Mike Martz offense + unproven teammates at all the other skilled positions = Big Fantasy numbers. If injuries don’t derail Gore, he will shine this year. 10. Marshawn Lynch, Bills: With his legal problems behind him, and an upgrade at QB in Buffalo, Lynch should build on his impressive numbers from last year. Word out of the Bills camp is that Lynch should be more involved in the passing game this year. 11. Larry Johnson, Chiefs: He is as talented as any back in the league. The problem is the weak O-line and the unproven QB he plays behind. He’s a solid #2 back but a shaky #1. 12. Maurice Jones-Drew, Jaguars: Elite and versatile talent playing behind a solid O-line, he finds ways to score points and gain yards. He should continue to see an increase in his workload, but because of Fred Taylor he should still have fresh legs come Fantasy Playoff time. Best of the rest: 13. Willis McGahee, Ravens 14. Ryan Grant, Packers 15. Brandon Jacobs, Giants 16. Ronnie Brown, Dolphins 17. Reggie Bush, Saints 18. Thomas Jones, Jets 19. Willie Parker, Steelers 20. Edgerrin James, Cardinals 21. Rudi Johnson, Bengals 22. Lawrence Maroney, Patriots 23. Jonathan Stewart, Panthers 24. LenDale White, Titans 25. Michael Turner, Falcons July 22, 2008 |
| NCAA Football | |
|
Be Careful What You Wish For
|
| NCAA Basketball | |
|
Jumpology: My Bracket Jumpology: Scouting The Heavyweights Jumpology: Reviewing The Bracket
|