10 Questions As The 2009 NBA Season Tips Off

With the NBA season right around the corner, let’s take a look at ten of the biggest storylines for this season.

Will The Los Angeles Lakers Repeat As Champs?

Kobe Bryant got his ring without Shaq, and Phil Jackson got his tenth overall ring. Now that they are satisfied, are they hungry enough to do it again? The Lakers were the last team to ever repeat, when they defended their title in 2002, so history is not on their side.

Unlike most teams following a championship, the Lakers were able to keep their core intact, re-signing key cogs in Lamar Odom and Shannon Brown. They arguably made a solid upgrade in signing Ron Artest and severing ties with Trevor Ariza. Artest is a career 39.9 percent three-point shooter, and is one of the NBAs most feared defensive players. His off-court antics however, speak another story. Phil Jackson was able to make a winner out of Dennis Rodman, so what says he can’t do the same here?

Age will be a concern (Bryant is 31 and starting PG Derek Fisher is 35), but they have valuable bench players in Odom, Jordan Farmar and Luke Walton. Simply put, the Lakers are the team to beat in 2009-2010.

Is Shaq The Answer In Cleveland?

The Cavs roller coaster 2008-2009 that was supposed to end with an NBA Finals appearance, and possibly a championship, was derailed thanks to Dwight Howard and the Orlando Magic. It clearly showed Cleveland’s need for a big man down low, but instead of going young in the draft, the Cavs are going for the win now approach. It’s no surprise this is being done in an effort to keep LeBron beyond this season, but at 37, what does Shaq have left?

Cleveland’s offense is a lot slower than Shaq dealt with in Phoenix, and when the Cavs have to go small (Lebron at the 4 and either Anderson Varejo or Zydrunas Ilgauskas at the 5), this will allow Shaq some breathing room. Having “Z” coming off the bench for 15 minutes a game will also keep Shaq’s legs fresh, because no matter what the Cavs do in the regular season, it’s NBA Finals or bust for this squad.

Look for Shaq to contribute heavily to the team, as he is willing to be second banana to LeBron, and if he can stay fresh and healthy, the Cavaliers should have no issues this season.

Which Rookie Is Making The Biggest Impact This Season?

This isn’t about who is going to be the Rookie Of The Year, rather, who is going to make an immediate impact this season to his team. Let’s face it, they’ll probably be ROY as well.

Former Pittsburgh F DeJuan Blair was one of the top fifteen prospects in the 2009 draft, but due to some knee issues, fell all the way to the San Antonio Spurs at 37. For a team that is realizing its need to get younger (Tim Duncan is 33 and 12 years in, Bruce Bowen retired at 37), this was a humongous opportunity to grab someone who will come in and make an impact down low.

Best Free Agent Pickup

Free Agency is always a crap shoot, and with the way the NBA can spend money, it is a big risk. This year, teams took some smarter plays, but a few teams took the risk of getting a big name, especially at the risk of the 2010 Free Agency (discussed later).

Boston is old, with Kevin Garnett, Ray Allen and Paul Pierce all 32 and over. So they go out and bring in 35 year old Rasheed Wallace with a three year deal. Not exactly the younger move most teams make, but the Celtics are not like most teams. Rajon Rondo, Glen Davis, and Kendrick Perkins are all under 25, and contribute to the team.

Bringing in Wallace was designed to help Garnett, who battled injury issues last season. He is a fiery, passionate player, much like Garnett, and will pick up where Davis struggled down low. A rotation of the three, combined with Perkins and Shelden Williams at Center, will allow the Celtics to be healthy and perform efficiently throughout the season.

Which Team Will Make The Biggest Turnaround In 2009-2010?

The Washington Wizards spent a bunch of money in 2008-2009, only to see it blow up in their face. Gilbert Arenas, serial smack talker and leader of Washington, played barely any of last season. He’s back this year with high expectations.

The team also brought in Mike Miller and Randy Foye through trades, and hired Flip Saunders as the new head coach. Most of the players who missed time with injuries last season should return and contribute.

Washington is still a ways off from an NBA Championship, no matter what Arenas says, but there is no doubt this team should make a huge leap from their 19 win campaign last season.

Is The West Still The Dominant Conference?

46-36. That was the record of the Phoenix Suns, who missed the playoffs last season being in the Western Conference. Had they played in the East, that 46-36 would have netted them the fifth spot, behind all the divisional champions. While the East may have the winningest team in Cleveland, it is skewed, due to the number of bad teams. Are we still that way?

Sadly, yes. Outside of top teams such as Cleveland, Boston, and Orlando, nine times out of ten, the West will crush the East when they match up. The East will be better this season against each other, and could have all eight playoff teams at .500 or better, but outside of the three teams, the East is still the inferior conference.

Who’s Winning The Eastern Conference?

Orlando, Boston, and Cleveland all made moves this summer, in an attempt to one up each other and get back to the NBA Finals. All three teams made significant upgrades, but in the end, it’s Cleveland’s year once again. While they don’t possess the number of weapons Boston had, the signing of Shaq will neutralize Dwight Howard in Orlando, and their youth and speed would knock out Boston.

Cleveland wins the Eastern Conference in 2009-2010.

Who’s Winning The Western Conference?

Like it was stated at the top of the article, the Lakers are the team to beat. There biggest enemy is themselves, and as long as they keep from imploding, they should find little reason not to get back to the NBA Finals.

Denver will pose a challenge, as will the rejuvenated San Antonio, but the Lakers bring back all the weapons from their title run, and Ron-Ron as well.

Los Angeles takes the Western Conference in 2009-2010.

Who’s NBA Champion

Cleveland vs. Los Angeles, the matchup we expected to see last season. Both teams bring a number of weapons to the table, but the experience of Los Angeles should win out. Cleveland made it to the NBA Finals a few years ago, but were mercifully destroyed by San Antonio. While they made some moves to make another run, Phil Jackson knows whats needed to win another title, and the city of Los Angeles celebrates another title.

Los Angeles Lakers, 2009-2010 NBA Champions.

Who Is Most Likely To Jump Ship After This Season

It’s no lie that the 2010 Free Agency is arguably one of the biggest events the NBA has ahead of them. Big names like LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, Chris Bosh, and others headline what is going to be an elite spending spree among teams. But who amongst the list of many is most likely destined for a new locale?

Chris Bosh is currently with the Toronto Raptors, but it is well known of his desire to return stateside. Despite Toronto’s best efforts to upgrade this offseason (adding Hedo Turkoglu, DeMar DeRozan, Marco Belinelli, and Rasho Nesterovic), they are still a one-man show, and won’t turn many heads in the East. This will upset Bosh, who at 25, still has plenty of years left in him. Teams like the Miami Heat (looking to add a front-court dimension and re-sign Wade) or the Knicks (as a combination with possibly LeBron, they have the money), and others will look to bring this down low dominator to their squad.

Ten questions, but a whole lot more as the season plays out.

This post was submitted by Ryan of The Sportmeisters.

Fantasy Football – Week 7 Start Em’ And Sit Em’

Welcome to the best time of the year Sports Fans. Here is where I will tell you who I think you should start or who I think you should sit for your fantasy team. This year, I will give you your obvious must starts (guys you start every week no matter who they play), a few players from each position who you should start, a sleeper start em’, and a must sit em’. Also, I will be giving projections for those players. If you have more questions, don’t forget to join me for my weekly Sunday Morning Start Em’/Sit Em’ Chat from 10:45am to 12:45pm. Go to www.Sportmeisters.com for more info. Enough talk, let’s get down to business!

QB Obvious Must Starts

Drew Brees – NO vs. MIA – Projection: 315 Yards, 3 TD, 0 INT

Peyton Manning – IND vs. STL – Projection: 335 Yards, 3 TD, 0 INT

Philip Rivers – SD vs. KC – Projection: 295 Yards, 2 TD, 0 INT

Aaron Rodgers – GB vs. CLE – Projection: 350 Yards, 3 TD, 0 INT

Tom Brady – NE vs. TB – Projection: 300 Yards, 3 TD, 0 INT

Kurt Warner – ARI vs. NYG – Projection: 250 Yards, 2 TD, 1 INT

QB Start Em’

Matt Schaub – Houston Texans vs. SF – Schaub has now put up back to back games of 350+ yards and has six touchdowns in those two games. This week he gets the 20^th ranked pass defense of the San Francisco 49ers. Start Em’. Projection: 300 Yards, 3 TD, 0 INT

Jay Cutler – Chicago Bears vs. CIN – Cutler put up 300 yards last week and threw two touchdowns. He now has 10 touchdowns on the year and this week he faces the 28^th ranked pass defense of the Cincinnati Bengals, who allowed almost 400 yards passing to Matt Schaub last week. Start Em’. Projection: 325 Yards, 3 TD, 1 INT

Eli Manning – New York Giants vs. ARI – Eli didn’t have his best game last week against the Saints and, even though he threw an interception and lost a fumble, he still threw for 178 yards and a touchdown. He has 11 touchdowns on the year and faces the 31^st ranked pass defense of the Arizona Cardinals this week. Look for a bounce back performance. Sleeper Start Em’. Projection: 275 Yards, 2 TD, 1 INT

QB Sit Em’

Jason Campbell – Washington Redskins vs. PHI – After a dismal performance in the first half against Kansas City, Campbell was benched for the second half in favor of Todd Collins. We don’t know if he will start this week and, even if he does, he faces the fifth ranked pass defense of the Philadelphia Eagles. Sit Em’. Projection: 150 Yards, 1 TD, 2 INT

Donovan McNabb – Philadelphia Eagles vs. WAS – Was that really Donovan McNabb and the Eagles getting run over by the Oakland Raiders last week? After a great week against Tampa Bay, he threw for just 269 yards and didn’t throw a touchdown against Oakland. This week, he faces the third ranked pass defense of the Washington Redskins. Hard to bench, but you have to do so until he gets back on track. Sit Em’. Projection: 220 Yards, 1 TD, 0 INT

Derek Anderson – Cleveland Browns vs. GB – If you are starting a guy who has just 11 completions and 145 yards in the past two games, then your fantasy team is in big trouble. Anderson has thrown six interceptions since taking over as the starter and faces the 10^th ranked pass defense of the Green Bay Packers this week. Must Sit Em’. (If you even own him) Projection: 125 Yards, 0 TD, 2 INT

RB Obvious Must Starts

Adrian Peterson – MIN vs. PIT – Projection: 110 Yards Rushing, 1 TD, 3 Receptions, 25 Yards

Michael Turner – ATL vs. DAL – Projection: 80 Yards Rushing, 1 TD

Steven Jackson – STL vs. IND – Projection: 55 Yards Rushing, 1 TD, 4 Receptions, 40 Yards

Matt Forte – CHI vs. CIN – Projection: 50 Yards Rushing, 1 TD, 5 Receptions, 50 Yards

DeAngelo Williams – CAR vs. BUF – Projection: 125 Yards Rushing, 1 TD, 2 Receptions, 20 Yards

RB Start Em’

Thomas Jones and Leon Washington – New York Jets vs. OAK – Jones had a monster game last week against Buffalo, rushing for 210 yards and a touchdown. Washington has that breakaway speed and can break a long touchdown on any carry. They have been splitting the workload and will split carries again with a great matchup against the 28^th ranked run defense of the Oakland Raiders. Start Em’ Both. Projections: Jones: 110 Yards Rushing, 1 TD – Washington: 70 Yards Rushing, 1 TD, 4 Receptions, 35 Yards

LaDainian Tomlinson – San Diego Chargers vs. KC – It looks like Tomlinson is finally healthy again. He had a good game against Denver last week, Rushing for 70 yards and catching 3 balls for 30 yards, and may be working his way back to being an Every Week Must Start again. This week, he gets the 27^th ranked run defense of the Kansas City Chiefs and LDT has historically had great games against them. Start Em’. Projection: 100 Yards Rushing, 1 TD, 3 Receptions, 30 Yards

Ryan Grant – Green Bay Packers vs. CLE – Grant hasn’t been the best fantasy Running Back this season, Rushing for just 347 Yards and two Touchdowns in five games. However, he faces the 30^th ranked Run D of the Cleveland Browns this week and if he is ever going to make an impact, it’s this week. Start Em’. Projection: 100 Yards Rushing, 1 TD, 3 Receptions, 40 Yards

Joseph Addai – Indianapolis Colts vs. STL – Addai has very quietly put together a very strong start to the season. He has 210 yards rushing, 26 receptions, 153 yards receiving, and four total touchdowns in five games. He looks to be fully healthy and doesn’t appear to be affected by his carry split with Donald Brown. This week, he should have a huge game against the 26^th ranked run defense of the St. Louis Rams. Start Em’. Projection: 80 Yards Rushing, 1 TD, 6 Receptions, 55 Yards

Jonathan Stewart – Carolina Panthers vs. BUF – It looks like the Panthers have found their running game, and it wasn’t a moment too soon. Stewart shares carries with DeAngelo Williams, but still managed to put up 110 yards and a touchdown last week against Tampa Bay. This week, he faces the worst run defense in the NFL in the Buffalo Bills and should find himself over the century mark yet again. Start Em’. Projection: 100 Yards Rushing, 1 TD

Laurence Maroney – New England Patriots vs. TB – Maroney has found himself in a great opportunity to regain the starting job that was once his. With injuries to Fred Taylor and Sammy Morris, Maroney was called upon last week against Tennessee and didn’t disappoint, Rushing for 123 yards and a touchdown. With Taylor Out and Morris Doubtful, Maroney will likely get the start against the 31^st ranked run defense of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers this week. Sleeper Start Em’. Projection: 100 Yards Rushing, 1 TD, 2 Receptions, 10 Yards

RB Sit Em’

Brandon Jacobs – New York Giants vs. ARI – What has happened to this beast of a man? Jacobs has looked like a shell of the man who plowed over defensive players these past few years and has just 388 yards rushing and one touchdown. Not to mention that he is losing carries to the much more effective Ahmad Bradshaw. This week, he faces the Arizona Cardinals and their number one ranked run defense. Sit Em’. Projection: 35 Yards Rushing

Rashard Mendenhall – Pittsburgh Steelers vs. MIN – Mendenhall has officially been named the starter in Pittsburgh, but I hate his matchup this week against the Williams Wall and the ninth ranked run defense of the Minnesota Vikings that have allowed just two rushing touchdowns this year. Sit Em’. Projection: 45 Yards Rushing, 2 Receptions, 15 Yards

Tim Hightower and Beanie Wells – Arizona Cardinals vs. NYG – The Cardinals Running game hasn’t been extremely effective this season (ranking 31^st in the NFL) and I don’t expect them to be very good against a pissed off Giants defense (ranked 18^th vs. the run) this week. Sit Em’ Both. Projections: Hightower: 50 Yards Rushing, 3 Receptions, 25 Yards – Wells: 20 Yards Rushing, 2 Receptions, 10 Yards

Michael Bush and Justin Fargas – Oakland Raiders vs. NYJ – Can we really trust any Oakland Raider to be a good fantasy starter? No. Especially when Bush and Fargas are splitting carries and are facing the 21^st ranked run defense of the New York Jets, who are extremely upset over their last two losses. Must Sit Em’ Both. Projections: Bush: 40 Yards Rushing – Fargas: 55 Yards Rushing

WR Obvious Must Starts

Randy Moss – NE vs. TB – Projection: 9 Receptions, 120 Yards, 2 TD

Wes Welker – NE vs. TB – Projection: 12 Receptions, 100 Yards, 1 TD

Larry Fitzgerald – ARI vs. NYG – Projection: 9 Receptions, 90 Yards, 1 TD

Reggie Wayne – IND vs. STL – Projection: 9 Receptions, 120 Yards, 1 TD

Andre Johnson – HOU vs. SF – Projection: 8 Receptions, 110 Yards, 1 TD

Greg Jennings – GB vs. CLE – Projection: 6 Receptions, 105 Yards, 1 TD

Roddy White – ATL vs. DAL – Projection: 6 Receptions, 90 Yards, 1 TD

Marques Colston – NO vs. MIA – Projection: 7 Receptions, 100 Yards, 1 TD

WR Start Em’

Steve Smith – New York Giants vs. ARI – After starting the season red-hot, Smith has cooled off the past two weeks. He has just seven Receptions for 114 yards in the past two games. However, he is still Eli Manning’s number one target and has a supreme matchup against the 31^st ranked pass defense of the Arizona Cardinals. Start Em’. Projection: 7 Receptions, 80 Yards, 1 TD

Donald Driver – Green Bay Packers vs. CLE – Anyone think Driver is washed up? I certainly don’t after his seven catch, 107 yard performance last week against Detroit. He now has 25 receptions for 395 yards and two touchdowns on the year and faces the 23^rd ranked pass defense of the Cleveland Browns this week. Start Em’. Projection: 9 Receptions, 100 Yards, 1 TD

Vincent Jackson – San Diego Chargers vs. KC – Even though Jackson only had four receptions for 46 yards last week, he did score a touchdown. He has 24 receptions for 419 yards and three touchdowns on the year and is facing the 25^th ranked pass defense of the Kansas City Chiefs this week. Start Em’. Projection: 6 Receptions, 95 Yards, 1 TD

Devin Hester – Chicago Bears vs. CIN – Hester has turned into a pretty good receiver this year. He has a team leading 20 receptions for 272 yards and two touchdowns this year and has been a consistent target of QB Jay Cutler. This week, he faces the 28^th ranked pass defense of the Cincinnati Bengals and with his speed, he is always a threat to break a huge TD. Start Em’. Projection: 7 Receptions, 75 Yards, 1 TD

Austin Collie and Pierre Garcon – Indianapolis Colts vs. STL – While Anthony Gonzalez has been out with a knee injury, these two guys have stepped in to catch 31 passes for 444 yards and five touchdowns. Granted, their QB is some guy named Peyton Manning, but that is still impressive none the less. This week, Gonzalez is expected to practice, but probably won’t play, leaving Collie and Garcon to face the 27^th ranked pass defense of the St. Louis Rams. Sleeper Start Em’ Both. Projections: Collie: 7 Receptions, 70 Yards, 1 TD – Garcon: 5 Receptions, 55 Yards

WR Sit Em’

Steve Smith – Carolina Panthers vs. BUF – I can’t believe I am writing this, but I think you have to bench Steve Smith this week. He has completely disappeared in the Carolina offense and has just 10 receptions for 107 yards in the past three games. Not to mention he is facing the fourth ranked pass defense of the Buffalo Bills this week and they will probably be relying on their running game. As hard as it is to say, you have to Sit Em’. Projection: 3 Receptions, 40 Yards

Terrell Owens – Buffalo Bills vs. CAR – Another star WR that I am saying to Sit? What’s going on here? Well, Owens has been almost non-existent in the Buffalo offense, catching just 15 balls for 215 yards and one touchdown on the season. Combine that with QB Trent Edwards likely missing the game with a concussion and you have your second star WR Sit Em’. Projection: 3 Receptions, 35 Yards

Santana Moss – Washington Redskins vs. PHI – Washington’s offense is in complete disarray. We don’t know who will be starting at QB, they have no running game, and they have a new Offensive Coordinator. All those factors plus the fact that they are facing the fifth ranked pass defense of the Philadelphia Eagles means Sit Em’. Projection: 3 Receptions, 30 Yards

Donnie Avery – St. Louis Rams vs. IND – Avery has been quite surprising so far this season. He has 19 receptions for 213 yards and two touchdowns despite the QB issues. This week, Marc Bulger is back behind center, but they are facing the ninth ranked pass defense of the Indianapolis Colts, who are getting Safety Bob Sanders back. Sit Em’. Projection: 2 Receptions, 40 Yards

Braylon Edwards – New York Jets vs. OAK – Combine a rookie QB who has eight interceptions to just one touchdown in his last three games with facing the best cover Corner in the NFL in Nnamdi Asomugha and you have your WR Must Sit Em’ of the week. Projection: 3 Receptions, 35 Yards

TE Obvious Must Starts

Jason Witten – DAL vs. ATL – Projection: 7 Receptions, 75 Yards, 1 TD

Antonio Gates – SD vs. KC – Projection: 6 Receptions, 70 Yards, 1 TD

Tony Gonzalez – ATL vs. DAL – Projection: 5 Receptions, 50 Yards, 1 TD

Dallas Clark – IND vs. STL – Projection: 8 Receptions, 95 Yards, 1 TD

TE Start Em’

Owen Daniels – Houston Texans vs. SF – Daniels has now caught 15 passes for 172 yards and two touchdowns in the past two weeks and appears to be a favorite target of Matt Schaub. This week he faces the 20^th ranked pass defense of the San Francisco 49ers. Start Em’. Projection: 7 Receptions, 80 Yards

Greg Olsen – Chicago Bears vs. CIN – Olsen has now had a touchdown in each of the last three games and had five receptions for 57 yards last week against Atlanta. This week he gets the 28^th ranked pass defense of the Cincinnati Bengals. Start Em’. Projection: 6 Receptions, 55 Yards, 1 TD

Jeremy Shockey – New Orleans Saints vs. MIA – Shockey has proven that when he is healthy, he is productive. He has 22 receptions for 199 yards and three touchdowns in five games and looks to be completely involved in the offense and on the same page with Drew Brees. He faces the 18^th ranked pass defense of the Miami Dolphins this week. Start Em’. Projection: 5 Receptions, 50 Yards, 1 TD

Jermichael Finley – Green Bay Packers vs. CLE – Finley has been incorporated into the offense the past two weeks and has 11 receptions for 182 yards and a touchdown to show for it. This week, he faces the 23^rd ranked pass defense of the Cleveland Browns. Sleeper Start Em’. Projection: 5 Receptions, 50 Yards, 1 TD

TE Sit Em’

Kellen Winslow – Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs. NE – The Patriots just shutout the Titans and this game is going to be played in London. I don’t expect Josh Johnson to be able to find Winslow in this game very often. Especially since the Patriots are ranked sixth vs. the pass. Sit Em’. Projection: 4 Receptions, 40 Yards

Dustin Keller – New York Jets vs. OAK – Keller has been non-existent in the Jets offense these past few weeks, catching just five balls for 47 yards in three games. With a struggling QB and a pumped up defense, I recommend you Sit Em’. Projection: 2 Receptions, 20 Yards

Kevin Boss – New York Giants vs. ARI – Boss has almost been completely fazed out of the offense, catching just 11 balls for 161 yards in five games. He has yet to score a Touchdown and, even with the great matchup vs. the 31^st ranked pass defense of the Arizona Cardinals, I don’t see it happening this week either as Eli has too many other options. Must Sit Em’. Projection: 2 Receptions, 20 Yards

D/ST Start Em’

Green Bay Packers vs. CLE – The Packers defense is coming off of a shutout of the Lions last week and is facing Derek Anderson this week, who has thrown 7 interceptions this season. Start Em’.

Carolina Panthers vs. BUF – With Trent Edwards likely out, the Bills will turn to Ryan Fitzpatrick, who proved that he isn’t a true NFL QB last year with Cincinnati. Look for Julius Peppers to terrorize him all game long. Start Em’.

New England Patriots vs. TB – 59-0 ring a bell? And that was against a veteran QB in Kerry Collins. What will they do to youngster Josh Johnson in London this week with LB Adalius Thomas back in the lineup? Start Em’.

New York Jets vs. OAK – You have to know that Rex Ryan is furious with the last two weeks losses and even without Kris Jenkins (Put on IR this week) the Jets defense will look to take their frustrations out on JaMarcus Russell and the Raiders. Start Em’.

D/ST Sit Em’

New York Giants vs. ARI – Remember last week against New Orleans? I don’t expect it to be as bad, but Kurt Warner to Larry Fitzgerald is something that we will probably see a lot of this week in what should be a shootout. Sit Em’.

Arizona Cardinals vs. NYG – The Cardinals may be able to stop the Run, but I don’t think they will be able to stop Eli Manning to Steve Smith, Mario Manningham, and Hakeem Nicks. This game will be a shootout. Sit Em’.

Miami Dolphins vs. NO – Anyone remember what the Saints did to a good Giants defense last week? What do we think they will do against a poor secondary this week? Must Sit Em’.

San Francisco 49ers vs. HOU – Matt Schaub and the Texans offense have been absolutely on fire recently and I don’t expect that to stop this week. Sit Em’.

There you have it Sports Fans. Any questions or concerns, please email me at Derek@Sportmeisters.com and don’t forget to join me for my weekly Sunday Morning Start Em’/Sit Em’ Chat from 10:45am to 12:45pm. Go to www.Sportmeisters.com for more info.

This post was submitted by Derek of The Sportmeisters.

La Russa Returning to Manage Cardinals as Mcgwire Becomes Hitting Coach

The St. Louis Cardinals are coming off a crushing NLDS sweep to the Los Angeles Dodgers and have a lot of decisions to make in the offseason. But one decision that they will now not have to worry about is the future of manager Tony La Russa. La Russa agreed to a one year contract to manage the Cardinals for a 15th season and a familiar face will be joining him on the coaching staff.

Every coach from last season will return to the bench with La Russa with the exception of the hitting coach Hal McRae. McRae is now out and the guy taking his place is pretty well known in Cardinals baseball history. Mark McGwire, who has not been seen anywhere near Major League Baseball, will be the new hitting coach for the team and pitching coach Dave Duncan will return as well. McGwire who hit 583 homeruns in his career has always talked about coaching one day and next season that day will finally arrive. McGwire has yet to come forward and comment on his new position but La Russa sounds happy to have him. “I’m a big fan of his,” La Russa said. “He’s back in uniform and, hopefully, people will see his greatness. But the number one reason he’s here is to coach our hitters.”

McGwire retired as one of the greatest homerun hitters of all time but after being a subject in the steroid era he has quietly fallen out of the public eye. The last time McGwire was really heard from was at a 2005 congressional hearing in which he refused to comment about steroid use. McGwire has worked with some Cardinals hitters before and players who have worked with him have been very pleased with their results.

As for La Russa, he is happy to be back managing the Cardinals for another season but knows that sooner or later it will come to an end. “I know there’s an end in sight somewhere,” La Russa said. “This is a great place to be. Past stars show up all the time. You’ve got to be a mummy not to be affected by that.” The Cardinals should once again be a playoff team again next year as they are every season but still have some questions that need to be answered in the offseason. Matt Holliday and Mark DeRosa are key free agents for this team but as always their pitching staff should be stacked and they have that other guy by the name of Albert Pujols who will continue to be the best player in Major League Baseball. One thing is for sure the Cardinals should not have any problem competing for that top spot in the National League again next season.

This post was submitted by Dustin Phifer.

Fantasy Basketball Player Rankings

By Derek of The Sportmeisters

Basketball Season is here and I thought I would give you my rankings for each position so you can draft a winning team.

PG

1. Chris Paul – NO
2. Deron Williams – UTA
3. Steve Nash – PHX
4. Gilbert Arenas – WAS
5. Chauncey Billups – DEN
6. Jason Kidd – DAL
7. Devin Harris – NJ
8. Rajon Rondo – BOS
9. Jose Calderon – TOR
10. Derrick Rose – CHI
11. Tony Parker – SA
12. Monta Ellis – GS
13. Baron Davis – LAC
14. Russell Westbrook – OKC
15. Mo Williams – CLE
16. Jameer Nelson – ORL
17. Andre Miller – POR
18. Mike Conley – MEM
19. T.J. Ford – IND
20. Mike Bibby – ATL
21. Mario Chalmers – MIA
22. Ramon Sessions – MIN
23. Raymond Felton – CHA
24. D.J. Augustin – CHA
25. Rodney Stuckey – DET

SG

1. Kobe Bryant – LAL
2. Dwayne Wade – MIA
3. Andre Iguodala – PHI
4. Brandon Roy – POR
5. Joe Johnson – ATL
6. Vince Carter – ORL
7. Kevin Martin – SAC
8. Ben Gordon – DET
9. O.J. Mayo – MEM
10. Eric Gordon – LAC
11. Michael Redd – MIL
12. Ray Allen – BOS
13. Manu Ginobili – SA
14. Jason Terry – DAL
15. Allen Iverson – MEM
16. John Salmons – CHI
17. Josh Howard – DAL
18. Richard Hamilton – DET
19. Jason Richardson – PHX
20. Jamal Crawford – ATL
21. Tracy McGrady – HOU
22. J.R. Smith – DEN
23. Mike Miller – WAS
24. Leandro Barbosa – PHX
25. Delonte West – CLE

SF

1. LeBron James – CLE
2. Kevin Durant – OKC
3. Carmelo Anthony – DEN
4. Danny Granger – IND
5. Paul Pierce – BOS
6. Caron Butler – WAS
7. Hedo Turkoglu – TOR
8. Stephen Jackson – GS
9. Gerald Wallace – CHA
10. Rashard Lewis – ORL
11. Rudy Gay – MEM
12. Ron Artest – LAL
13. Tayshaun Prince – DET
14. Shawn Marion – DAL
15. Richard Jefferson – SA
16. Trevor Ariza – HOU
17. Mike Dunleavy – IND
18. Andrei Kirilenko – UTA
19. Wilson Chandler – NY
20. Luol Deng – CHI
21. Grant Hill – PHX
22. Michael Beasley – MIA
23. Marvin Williams – ATL
24. Thaddeus Young – PHI
25. Corey Maggette – GS

PF

1. Dirk Nowitzki – DAL
2. Chris Bosh – TOR
3. Pau Gasol – LAL
4. Amare Stoudemire – PHX
5. Kevin Garnett – BOS
6. David West – NO
7. Elton Brand – PHI
8. Carlos Boozer – UTA
9. Troy Murphy – IND
10. Josh Smith – ATL
11. Antawn Jamison – WAS
12. Al Harrington – NY
13. Jeff Green – OKC
14. LaMarcus Aldridge – POR
15. Boris Diaw – CHA
16. Charlie Villanueva – DET
17. Zach Randolph – MEM
18. Tyrus Thomas – CHI
19. Blake Griffin – LAC
20. Lamar Odom – LAL
21. Kevin Lowe – MIN
22. Luis Scola – HOU
23. Joakim Noah – CHI
24. Kenyon Martin – DEN
25. Paul Millsap – UTA

C

1. Dwight Howard – ORL
2. Tim Duncan – SA
3. Al Jefferson – MIN
4. David Lee – NY
5. Nene – DEN
6. Mehmet Okur – UTA
7. Emeka Okafor – NO
8. Brook Lopez – NJ
9. Andrew Bynum – LAL
10. Andrea Bargnani – TOR
11. Andris Biedrins – GS
12. Al Horford – ATL
13. Andrew Bogut – MIL
14. Marcus Camby – LAC
15. Spencer Hawes – SAC
16. Chris Kaman – LAC
17. Shaquille O’ Neal – CLE
18. Greg Oden – POR
19. Rasheed Wallace – BOS
20. Brad Miller – CHI
21. Tyson Chandler – CHA
22. Jermaine O’Neal – MIA
23. Marc Gasol – MEM
24. Kendrick Perkins – BOS
25. Samuel Dalembert – PHI

There are my Rankings for the upcoming Basketball season. Any Questions or concerns, email me at Derek@Sportmeisters.com.

This post was submitted by The Sportmeisters.

What We Learned: NFL Week 6

By Ryan of The Sportmeisters

Blowouts and close calls highlight another week in the NFL. Let’s look back at some of the key moments of week six.

A Perfect Brees

When two undefeated teams meet, it is usually talk of a big game. There was a big game, but it came from the home team, as the New Orleans Saints decimated the New York Giants 48-27. The Giants, who came into the game with the top ranked defense, looked completely outmatched by the Saints, led by Brees’s 369 yards and four touchdowns.

While many Giants, including QB Eli Manning, were coming home for this game, I’m sure they left skid marks to get out of Louisiana as fast as possible. For the Giants, this exposes a team who played an easy schedule thus far throughout the season. They will need to bounce back and play at a competitive level next week.

A Game Of Titan-ic Proportions

It’s hard to wonder which story is bigger in New England’s 59-0 thrashing of the Tennessee Titans. On one hand, there is Tom Brady, playing like his 2007 form with six touchdowns, three to WR Randy Moss. Or one could bring up the un-retirement of Junior Seau. Instead, the focus needs to be on the collapse of the Titans, now 0-6 with no real hope of success this season. For a team that went 13-3 the year before, it’s hard to imagine Coach Jeff Fisher not being on the hot seat, but we feel it’s still too early for that.

Instead, the Titans need to overhaul and see where they can find success. The only change was the loss of Jim Schwartz and Albert Haynesworth, but that shouldn’t breed this ineptitude. QBs Kerry Collins and Vince Young combined for -7 yards, and the lone bright spot was RB Chris Johnson, who had 128 rushing yards.

40 Is The New 25

When Brett Favre came back to play for the Minnesota Vikings, I was a skeptic, predicting them to finish under.500. While it’s still too early to crown them Super Bowl champions, the Vikings are playing like a team expecting to make a deep playoff run. Their latest conquest was a 33-31 victory over Baltimore, won thanks to a missed field goal at the end of the game.

In Green Bay, Favre didn’t have a dominant running game, but he does now, thanks to Adrian “All Day” Peterson, who became the second running back in as many weeks to have over 100 yards on the ground against Baltimore. Teams will still stack eight in the box, allowing Favre to throw quick passes to WR Sidney Rice and TE Visanthe Shiancoe, who are both benefitting from their new QB.

Contenders and Pretenders

Who’s the best, and who’s hoping for a job next year?

Who dat say they gonna’ beat them Saints? Right now, no one, as New Orleans is off to their best start in years at 6-0, highlighted by beating previously unbeaten New York.

The Atlanta Falcons are right behind the Saints in the NFC South, and could make for an interesting battle as the season wears on. The Falcons defeated the Bears 21-14 last night, thanks to a solid team performance.

While some teams are perfect, others are perfectly inept:

The Washington Redskins has removed play-calling duties from Jim Zorn, but how long until they remove the coach from his job? A third straight loss to a previously winless team highlights their 2-4 record.

The Philadelphia Eagles put up less points than the Philadelphia Phillies, and it showed in a 13-9 loss to the Oakland Raiders.

This post was submitted by The Sportmeisters.

Ten MLS veterans to consider for the Philadelphia Union

One of the essential steps in building a successful MLS expansion team is finding the team’s first leader and captain; an MLS veteran that can immediately step in and be the leading voice in the locker room. A roster full of young, inexperienced players is a recipe for disaster for an expansion team. Picking up an MLS veteran or two will be one of the goals for Peter Nowak in the coming months.

The good news is that Major League Soccer is full of veterans who know what it takes to win in this league. Below are ten options worth a look. Some of these players may be available in the expansion draft, while some would have to be acquired through a trade. However, all ten are reliable team players who would be key players in Philadelphia’s first season.

Goalkeepers (The following three goalies are in the last years of their careers, but they could prove to be very valuable. At the very least, they could split time with a young goalie and help him develop, while still providing reliable play in net.)

Kevin Hartman (Kansas City Wizards) – two MLS Cups with LA Galaxy.
Zach Thornton (Chivas USA) – one MLS Cup with Chicago Fire.
Joe Cannon (San Jose Earthquakes) – one MLS Cup with San Jose Earthquakes.

Defenders

Mike Petke (NY Red Bulls) – rugged, hard-nosed defender. He would be better suited as a depth player at this point in his career, but his leadership and passion would serve Philadelphia well.
Chris Albright (New England Revolution) – born and raised in Philadelphia. He’s been injured this season, but it would be a great story to see him play in his hometown. When healthy, he can still play a big role on any MLS team.
Frankie Hejduk (Columbus Crew) – one of the great character players in league history. It would be difficult to pry him from Columbus, but he would instantly become a fan favorite in Philadelphia. At age 35, he is still a great option as an outside back.

Midfielders

Chris Klein (LA Galaxy) – one of the most reliable right sided players in recent memory. He can play as an attacking right back, or can move up to midfield.
Pablo Mastroeni (Colorado Rapids) – a premier shut-down defensive midfielder. He is a born-leader, and captain material. Finding a proven defensive midfielder with the ability to control possesion is the key to success for any team.
Forwards

Jeff Cunningham (FC Dallas) – currently leads the league in goals with 17. He has been a huge part of FC Dallas’ resurgence late in the season.
Josh Wolff (Kansas City Wizards) – may not be as prolific a goal-scorer as he should be, but he is a great team player and can still score the clutch goal. Like Hejduk, it would be difficult to pry him from Kansas City.

This post was submitted by Mark Chajkowsky.

NBA Referees Should be Back to Work by Start of Regular Season

NBA coaches can start to breathe a sigh of relief as it looks like regular league referees will be back to work at the start of the regular season. The deal is not yet official but their looks to be nothing standing in the way of the deal being finalized by Friday.

The deal was brought about after an unexpected meeting took place on Tuesday between NBA commissioner David Stern and the head of the referees union Lamell McMorris. Negotiations were not even close the last time the two sides met which has led to a lockout and use of replacement and WNBA referees during the preseason. Head Coaches have definitely not been happy with the officiating early on and some coaches have been really paying for it. Just recently Charlotte Bobcats head coach Larry Brown and the Bobcats organization were fined $60,000 apiece and a day later Stan Van Gundy of the Orlando Magic was fined $35,000 for comments made towards officiating. So far games have had a very slow pace with way too many fouls called and some coaches have even compared it to the feel of a summer league game.

So this deal is definitely coming at the right time with the season set to start next week. If the deal gets finalized on Friday, which is expected, then NBA referees will start a weekend training the next day to get them prepared for the start of the regular season on Tuesday. One source said that “things look promising” and that everybody expects for this to get done. Great news for the NBA and all of its fans as the season can get going and the game will start to look like what NBA basketball is supposed to look like.

This post was submitted by Dustin Phifer.

NCAA Week 8 Top 25: Alabama Knocks Florida Out Of The Top Spot

By Ryan of The Sportmeisters

Upsets galore in the latest week of football as the BCS Standings are out and about, so the real battle begins for the national championship.

1. Alabama (Last Week: 3) Next Game: 10/24 vs. Tennessee

Alabama jumps all the way to number one thanks to their dominant victories, while their competition has been struggling to win.

2. Florida (Last Week: 1) Next Game: 10/24 at Mississippi State

Another close call, this time against Arkansas, as UF required a game winning field goal to stay undefeated. Can they find their dominant selves again?

3. Texas (Last Week: 2) Next Game: 10/24 at Missouri

Despite the Red River Shootout win, Texas falls due to their lack of a dominant win, which the two teams above can claim.

4. USC (Last Week: 4) Next Game: 10/24 vs. Oregon State

USC is not out of the national title picture yet, but a scare against Notre Dame almost made that a reality.

5. TCU (Last Week: 7) Next Game: 10/24 at No. 15 BYU

TCU jumps up in the polls, holding a good shot of getting into a BCS bowl, but are still miles outside the BCS Championship.

6. Boise State (Last Week: 9) Next Game: 10/24 at Hawaii

Boise State is number four in the BCS Standings, but have an easy schedule, and will need a lot of big wins to get a shot at the national title.

7. Miami (Last Week: 9) Next Game: 10/24 vs. Clemson

If the NCAA season ended today, Miami wouldn’t even be in their own conference title game.

8. Iowa (Last Week: 20) Next Game: 10/24 at Michigan State

Iowa deserve a top ten spot, with an undefeated record and sitting atop the Big Ten.

9. Georgia Tech (Last Week: 11) Next Game: 10/24 at Virginia

After upsetting Virginia Tech, can Georgia Tech sustain the momentum against the top ACC Coastal squad in Virginia (cue the sarcasm).

10. LSU (Last Week: 10) Next Game: 10/24 vs. No. 24 Auburn

A week off should have given LSU plenty of time to get their offense back in gear.

11. Cincinnati (Last Week: 17) Next Game: 10/24 vs. Louisville

The Bearcats are in control of their own destiny in the Big East, as their disposing of USF puts them in the driver seat.

12. Oklahoma State (Last Week: 12) Next Game: 10/24 at Baylor

Oklahoma State just keeps hanging around, not really doing anything spectacular at this point.

13. Penn State (Last Week: 13) Next Game: 10/24 at Michigan

Michigan has been having some internal issues, so Penn State is finding them at just the right time.

14. Virginia Tech (Last Week: 6) Next Game: Idle

With a chance to establish themselves in the national title race, Virginia Tech loses all chances of that with an upset loss against Georgia Tech

15. BYU (Last Week: 15) Next Game: 10/24 vs. No. 5 TCU

Thanks to the upsets, BYU has a very slight outside chance at the BCS Bowls, and could make a jump with a big win over TCU.

16. Oregon (Last Week: 20) Next Game: 10/24 at Washington

Thanks to the amount of losses, Oregon jumps big time in the polls.

17. Ohio State (Last Week: 5) Next Game: 10/24 vs. Minnesota

Turnovers doom Ohio State, who drop out of national title, and most likely Big Ten title consideration.

18. Pittsburgh (Last Week: NR) Next Game: 10/24 vs. South Florida

Cincinnati is the team to beat, but don’t sleep in Pittsburgh for the Big East.

19. Texas Tech (Last Week: NR) Next Game: 10/24 vs. Texas A&M

The upset win has the Red Raiders back in the polls.

20. Kansas (Last Week: 14) Next Game: 10/24 vs. No. 22 Oklahoma

Kansas is another team falling prey to an upset, losing to Colorado.

21. Utah (Last Week: NR) Next Game: 10/24 vs, Air Force

Utah makes another return into the Top 25.

22. Oklahoma (Last Week: 16) Next Game: 10/24 vs. No. 20 Kansas

Oklahoma has lost all shot at the BCS Title game, the Big 12 game, and a BCS Bowl.

23. West Virginia (Last Week: NR) Next Game: I10/24 vs. Connecticut

The Mountaineers are back in the polls, without Rich Rodriguez.

24. Auburn (Last Week: 24) Next Game: 10/24 vs. No. 10 LSU

An upset win, and Auburn is right back in the thick of the SEC.

25. South Carolina (Last Week: 21) Next Game: 10/24 vs. Vanderbilt

Despite the loss, SC hangs on in the top 25.

This post was submitted by The Sportmeisters.

Fantasy Football Week 6 Winners, Losers, And Waiver Wire Wonders

By Derek of The Sportmeisters

Week Six of the season is in the books. Here are my winners, losers, and waiver wire wonders from the week. Let’s go!

Winners

QB – Tom Brady – New England Patriots – 29 Completions, 34 Attempts, 380 Yards, 6 TD, 0 INT

He’s Baack! Brady and the Patriots put on an amazing scoring display last week against Tennessee, scoring 59 points, with 45 of them coming in the first half and 35 in the second quarter alone! Brady looked like his old self, throwing for 380 yards and six touchdowns in the snow. He always was a must start QB and he re-established that fact last week, so make sure you have him in you lineup this week against Tampa Bay.

QB – Drew Brees – New Orleans Saints – 23 Completions, 30 Attempts, 369 Yards, 4 TD, 0 INT

Not even the New York Giants could stop Drew Brees and that New Orleans offense. They scored 48 points and Brees threw for 369 yards and four touchdowns. Brees is an elite fantasy QB and should be started every week no matter what.

QB – Matt Schaub – Houston Texans – 28 Completions, 40 Attempts, 392 Yards, 4 TD, 1 INT

Schaub put up monster numbers last week against a Cincinnati D that had been pretty good. He threw for 392 yards and four touchdowns and has thrown for 763 yards and six touchdowns in the last two games. Ride him while he’s hot, especially against San Francisco this week (ranked 20^th vs. the Pass).

RB – Thomas Jones – New York Jets – 22 Carries, 210 Yards, 1 TD, 2 Receptions, 17 Yards

Jones had his best game this year last week against Buffalo. He ran for 210 yards and a touchdown and has re-established himself as the lead man in the backfield. He has another excellent matchup this week against Oakland (ranked 28^th vs. the Run) and he should be in your lineup while he’s hot.

RB – Steve Slaton – Houston Texans – 19 Carries, 43 Yards, 6 Receptions, 102 Yards, 1 TD, 1 FUM

While Slaton may not have had his best day running the ball, he made up for it with his receiving ability. He had 43 yards rushing, but had six receptions for 102 yards and a touchdown against Cincinnati. He hasn’t been the best fantasy RB, but he has been productive these past few weeks. Keep starting him and expect him to break out soon.

RB – DeAngelo Williams – Carolina Panthers – 30 Carries, 152 Yards, 2 TD, 2 Receptions, 20 Yards

Who said he was a bust? Williams started the season slow, but so did the entire Carolina team. Last week he finally showed why he was a first round pick, running for 152 yards and two touchdowns. He has another monster matchup this week against Buffalo (ranked 32^nd vs. the Run) and should be in your lineup every week because it appears the Panthers have found their running game again.

RB – Maurice Jones-Drew – Jacksonville Jaguars – 33 Carries, 133 Yards, 3 TD, 5 Receptions, 45 Yards, 1 FUM

When Maurice Jones-Drew talks, the Jaguars Coaching Staff listens. MJD complained about their week five game plan and received the ball a total of 38 times in week six. He ran for 133 yards and three touchdowns and had five receptions for 45 yards. He is showing why he was a first round pick and should be started every week after this week’s bye.

RB – Ray Rice – Baltimore Ravens – 10 Carries, 77 Yards, 2 TD, 10 Receptions, 117 Yards

So much for the backfield by committee in Baltimore. Rice appears to be running away with the job and rightfully so. In the past two weeks, he has 146 yards rushing with two touchdowns and 17 receptions for 191 yards and a touchdown. If you own any Baltimore RB, he is the one to own. He has a bye this week.

WR – Sidney Rice – Minnesota Vikings – 6 Receptions, 176 Yards

Rice appears to be the Minnesota WR that has the most chemistry with QB Brett Favre as he has a team leading 23 receptions for 409 yards and two touchdowns on the year. He had a career game last week with six receptions for 176 yards against Baltimore. He has a tough matchup this week against Pittsburgh (ranked 12^th vs. the Pass), but stash him on the bench for the upcoming weeks.

WR – Randy Moss – New England Patriots – 8 Receptions, 129 Yards, 3 TD

It was only a matter of time before Brady was able to find his number one guy and last week was the week. Moss caught eight passes for 129 yards and three touchdowns in the 59-0 trouncing of the Titans. Moss now has 38 receptions for 496 yards and four touchdowns on the season and remains an every week must start.

WR – Wes Welker – New England Patriots – 10 Receptions, 150 Yards, 2 TD

How’s this for being the top target for arguably the NFL’s best QB? Welker missed two games with an injury and is still fourth in the NFL in receptions with 36, to go with 377 yards and three touchdowns. He had 10 receptions for 150 yards and two touchdowns last week in the 59-0 trouncing of the Titans. Welker looks to be fully healthy and should be an every week start.

WR – Marques Colston – New Orleans Saints – 8 Receptions, 166 Yards, 1 TD

Colston has been up and down so far this year, but last week he was awesome. He had eight receptions for 166 yards and a touchdown against the Giants. He plays with Drew Brees and that high-powered New Orleans offense and should be started every week.

WR – Larry Fitzgerald – Arizona Cardinals – 13 Receptions, 100 Yards, 1 TD

Are we going to see someone finally break the Madden Curse? So far, so good as Fitzgerald has 35 receptions for 360 yards and five touchdowns on the season. He had 13 of those receptions last week against Seattle and he took those 13 receptions for 100 yards and a touchdown. He is an elite Fantasy WR and should be started every week.

WR – Hines Ward – Pittsburgh Steelers – 8 Receptions, 159 Yards, 1 TD

Wasn’t he supposed to be on the decline? Ward just keeps on going and keeps on catching passes. He caught eight balls for 159 yards and a touchdown last week against Cleveland and now has 41 receptions for 599 yards and two touchdowns on the season. He looks to still be Big Ben’s favorite target and you should start him while he’s hot.

TE – Zach Miller – Oakland Raiders – 6 Receptions, 139 Yards, 1 TD

Who knew that Oakland had an Offense? Last week against Philadelphia, Miller finally had the type of game that we expected from him when we drafted him. He caught six balls for 139 yards and a touchdown. He is without question JaMarcus Russell’s favorite target, but I still don’t trust that Oakland offense, especially against the Jets defense this week.

TE – Owen Daniels – Houston Texans – 7 Receptions, 78 Yards, 2 TD

Daniels is quietly becoming one of the most consistent fantasy TE’s. He had seven receptions for 78 yards and two touchdowns last week against Cincinnati and now has 32 receptions for 374 yards and four touchdowns on the season. The four touchdowns are more than he has had in the past two seasons (3 in 2007 and 2 in 2008). Start him every week while he and Schaub are hot.

TE – Tony Scheffler – Denver Broncos – 6 Receptions, 101 Yards, 1 TD

At the beginning of the year, we all thought the Broncos would trade Scheffler because Josh McDaniels isn’t known for utilizing the Tight End in his offense. However, they kept him and he has been more active in the offense every week. Last week, he caught six balls for 101 yards and a touchdown and now has 16 receptions for 217 yards and two touchdowns on the year. I wouldn’t start him yet, but keep an eye on him for the future.

Losers

QB – Mark Sanchez – New York Jets – 10 Completions, 29 Attempts, 119 Yards, 0 TD, 5 INT

If you were using Mark Sanchez as a bye week fill in last week, I hope you had some good Running Backs and Wide Receivers to offset his disaster of a day against Buffalo. He threw five interceptions and has now thrown eight interceptions to just one touchdown in the past three games. He should not be owned in any league right now, even as a bye week fill in.

QB – Kerry Collins – Tennessee Titans – 2 Completions, 12 Attempts, -7 Yards, 0 TD, 1 INT, 1 FUM

Not that you were ever using Kerry Collins as your fantasy starter, but if you were that desperate last week, boy were you sorry. He completed just two passes for negative seven yards and threw an interception and lost a fumble. He may end up being benched for Vince Young, but he shouldn’t be on the fantasy radar even if he keeps his job.

QB – Matt Hasselbeck – Seattle Seahawks – 10 Completions, 29 Attempts, 112 Yards, 0 TD, 1 INT, 1 FUM

After his monster return in week five, we all thought he was a safe fantasy play last week against Arizona’s 31^st ranked Pass D. Boy, were we wrong. Hasselbeck threw for just 112 Yards and threw an interception and lost a fumble. He appears to be healthy and has another week to rest as Seattle is on a bye this week. Keep him on the beck as your backup and watch for the matchups as he could still be useful.

QB – Jason Campbell – Washington Redskins – 9 Completions, 16 Attempts, 89 Yards, 0 TD, 1 INT

Not only did he not throw a touchdown against Kansas City’s 25^th ranked pass defense, he didn’t even finish out the game as he was benched in the second half. Campbell hasn’t had a hard schedule and yet still has thrown just six touchdowns and has also thrown six interceptions. He should not be a fantasy option going forward, especially if they decide to keep him on the bench this week.

RB – Brandon Jacobs – New York Giants – 7 Carries, 33 Yards, 1 Reception, 2 Yards

How in the world does the biggest RB in the NFL have just 388 yards rushing and just one touchdown in six games? He had just 33 yards last week against New Orleans and just doesn’t look like the same guy who plowed through defenders last year. Here’s hoping he breaks out of his slump this week, but I wouldn’t start him against Arizona (ranked 1^st against the Run).

RB – Matt Forte – Chicago Bears – 15 Carries, 23 Yards, 5 Receptions, 37 Yards, 2 FUM

It’s a bit early to label Forte a bust, but he hasn’t produced like a first or even a second round fantasy pick yet. He has just one game of 100+ yards and has just 294 yards on the season. He also has 18 receptions for 129 yards and just one touchdown. There is still plenty of time to turn it around, but he needs to do better than his 23 yard performance last week against Atlanta.

RB – Willie Parker – Pittsburgh Steelers – 7 Carries, 26 Yards, 1 Reception, 9 Yards, 1 FUM

Parker has officially lost his starting job and with that has lost almost all fantasy value. He has just 185 yards rushing and no rushing touchdowns to go with his five receptions for 53 yards and one touchdown. If you own him, feel free to drop him after his 26 yard performance against the lowly Cleveland Browns.

WR – Jeremy Maclin – Philadelphia Eagles – 1 Reception, 6 Yards

One week wonder? No, I don’t think so, but he was nowhere to be found last week against Oakland. He had just one catch for six yards one week after having six receptions for 142 yards and two touchdowns. Consider this a fluke week from the entire Eagles offense, but don’t start him again until he is a more consistent part of the offense.

WR – Steve Smith – Carolina Panthers – 1 Reception, 4 Yards

Is it bad when your star player doesn’t feel that he is an asset to the team anymore? That is what Steve Smith said after having just one catch for four yards against Tampa Bay last week. He has just 21 receptions for 259 yards and no touchdowns on the year and it looks like they may end up trading him. I don’t know how you bench him this week against Buffalo (ranked 4^th vs. the Pass), but you may have to until he either gets going in the offense or gets traded.

WR – Chris Henry – Cincinnati Bengals – 1 Reception, 20 Yards

Wasn’t he supposed to have a breakout season this year? So far, it hasn’t happened. He had just one catch for 20 yards against Houston and has just nine receptions for 190 yards and one touchdown on the season. Don’t drop him yet as the season is still young, but watch to see if he gets more involved in the offense before you consider starting him.

WR – Steve Smith – New York Giants – 4 Receptions, 44 Yards

He is only on this list due to one bad week. Smith has been a fantasy force this year, but was held to just four receptions for 44 yards last week against New Orleans. However, that is more a credit to New Orleans’ heavily improved Defense that the Giants offense. Smith has 41 receptions for 525 yards and four touchdowns on the year and you shouldn’t hesitate to start him this week against Arizona (ranked 31^st vs. the Pass).

TE – Kellen Winslow – Tampa Bay Buccaneers – 3 Receptions, 29 Yards

Talk about Jekyll and Hyde. Winslow has been incredibly inconsistent this season and that has to do with the fact that he has played with no real QB and is on a team that has no real offensive threat. He had three catches for 29 yards against Carolina one week after having nine catches for 102 yards and two touchdowns against Philadelphia. If you own him, you are probably starting him though, as he is still a Top 10 fantasy TE.

TE – Dustin Keller – New York Jets – 2 Receptions, 16 Yards

Keller started off hot and on the same page with his rookie QB. However, he has just five catches for 47 yards in his last three games and just 14 receptions for 187 yards and one touchdown on the year. Keep him on the bench as long as Sanchez is throwing as many interceptions as he is, but watch for him to start becoming more involved in the offense again soon.

Waiver Wire Wonders

WR – Sidney Rice – Minnesota Vikings – 6 Receptions, 176 Yards

Rice appears to be the Minnesota WR that has the most chemistry with QB Brett Favre as he has a team leading 23 receptions for 409 yards and two touchdowns on the year. He had a career game last week with six Receptions for 176 yards against Baltimore. He has a tough matchup this week against Pittsburgh (ranked 12^th vs. the Pass), but is available, only being owned in 89 percent of CBS Sports/NFL.com leagues, 29 percent of ESPN leagues, and 68 percent of Yahoo leagues. Grab him if you can and stash him on the bench for the upcoming weeks.

RB – Laurence Maroney – New England Patriots – 16 Carries, 123 Yards, 1 TD, 3 Receptions, 10 Yards

So after being buried on the depth chart, it looks like the one thing that has plagued Maroney throughout his career has given him another chance. Injuries to Fred Taylor and Sammy Morris gave Maroney the bulk of the carries last week against Tennessee and he produced with 123 yards and a touchdown. Morris looks very iffy to play this week, which makes Maroney the starter against Tampa Bay and their 31^st ranked Run D. He is available, only being owned in 15.1 percent of ESPN leagues and 42 percent of Yahoo leagues.

RB – Kevin Faulk – New England Patriots – 1 Carry, 5 Yards, 3 Receptions, 54 Yards, 1 TD

Even though he is the Third Down RB, he is still making an enormous amount of plays for New England. He has just 21 carries for 75 yards on the season, but has 17 receptions for 152 yards and a touchdown, which came last week against Tennessee. If Sammy Morris doesn’t play this week, he becomes number two behind Laurence Maroney and will see more playing time. He is extremely valuable in PPR formats and he is available, only being owned in 5.1 percent of ESPN leagues and 9 percent of Yahoo leagues. He could be a nice sleeper this week against the 31^st ranked Run D of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

That’s all for now sports fans. Any questions or concerns, email me at Derek@Sportmeisters.com.

This post was submitted by The Sportmeisters.

Fantasy Football Week 5 Winners, Losers, And Waiver Wire Wonders

By Derek of The Sportmeisters

Week Five of the season is in the books. Here are my winners, losers, and waiver wire wonders from the week. Let’s go!

Winners

QB – Donovan McNabb – Philadelphia Eagles – 16 Completions, 21 Attempts, 264 Yards, 3 TD, 30 Yards Rushing

McNabb returned from injury against the lowly Tampa Bay Buccaneers and torched them for 264 Yards and three Touchdowns. He appears to be fully healthy and has another great matchup this week against Oakland.

RB – Cedric Benson – Cincinnati Bengals – 27 Carries, 120 Yards, 1 TD, 2 Receptions, 16 Yards

Benson was the first player in 40 games to rush for over 100 Yards against the Baltimore Ravens. He now has 487 Yards and three Touchdowns in five games and has a great matchup this week against Houston.

RB – Ahmad Bradshaw – New York Giants – 11 Carries, 110 Yards, 2 TD, 1 Reception, 55 Yards

Bradshaw torched the Oakland Raiders for 165 Total Yards and two Touchdowns and would have gotten more if not for a back injury that forced him out of the game in the first half. He has rushed for over 100 yards twice in the past three weeks and faces New Orleans this week.

RB – Michael Turner – Atlanta Falcons – 22 Carries, 97 Yards, 3 TD

The Burner finally lived up to his first round status last week, rushing for 97 Yards and three Touchdowns against San Francisco. He now has 323 Yards and five Touchdowns on the year and faces a tough matchup against Chicago this week.

WR – Miles Austin – Dallas Cowboys – 10 Receptions, 250 Yards, 2 TD

Austin was expected to play a bigger role in the Offense this year and that was made even more so when Roy Williams was deemed out with an injury for last week’s game against Kansas City. He was definitely a big part of the Offense, catching 10 balls for 250 yards and two Touchdowns, including the game winner in Overtime. Dallas has a bye week this week and the schedule doesn’t favor Austin in Week Seven against Atlanta.

WR – Roddy White – Atlanta Falcons – 8 Receptions, 210 Yards, 2 TD

White finally had his breakout game of 2009. He had eight Receptions for 210 yards and two Touchdowns, raising his season totals to 23 Receptions, 329 Yards, and three Touchdowns in four games. This week, he gets a tough matchup against Chicago, but you are probably starting him if you own him.

WR – Jeremy Maclin – Philadelphia Eagles – 6 Receptions, 142 Yards, 2 TD

Maclin showed the world why he was drafted in the first round by the Eagles this past week. Starting for the injured Kevin Curtis, he caught six passes for 142 Yards and two long Touchdowns (51 Yards and 40 Yards). He looks to be a safe play with a great matchup against Oakland this week.

WR – Andre Johnson – Houston Texans – 8 Receptions, 101 Yards, 2 TD

Johnson had yet another spectacular performance this past week against Arizona. He now has 28 receptions for 437 Yards and four Touchdowns on the season. He is an every week must start and faces a much improved Cincinnati Defense this week.

TE – Kellen Winslow – Tampa Bay Buccaneers – 9 Receptions, 102 Yards, 2 TD

Winslow had a monster game last week, catching nine passes for 102 Yards and two Touchdowns against Philadelphia. He appears to be QB Josh Johnson’s favorite target and has 26 Receptions for 257 Yards and four Touchdowns on the season. He has a tough matchup against Carolina this week.

Losers

QB – Derek Anderson – Cleveland Browns – 2 Completions, 17 Attempts, 23 Yards, 0 TD, 1 INT

So much for Anderson being able to spark that anemic Offense. He completed just two passes against Buffalo last week and Cleveland scored just six points. He should not be on your fantasy roster in any format.

QB – JaMarcus Russell – Oakland Raiders – 8 Completions, 13 Attempts, 100 Yards, 0 TD, 0 INT, 3 FUM

Here is another guy who is falling faster and faster. Russell had yet another awful game against the Giants last week, throwing for just 100 yards and Fumbling the ball three times. He is another guy that you should not own under any circumstances.

RB – DeAngelo Williams – Carolina Panthers – 18 Carries, 40 Yards, 2 Receptions, 19 Yards, 1 FUM

Williams had a very disappointing week against Washington last week. He rushed for only 40 yards and lost the ball once. He is still a top tier fantasy running back and should bounce back against Tampa Bay this week.

RB – Maurice Jones-Drew – Jacksonville Jaguars – 12 Carries, 34 Yards, 5 Receptions, 23 Yards

Jones-Drew has now had two straight weeks of sub-par performances. He has rushed for just 48 Yards and one Touchdown in the past two weeks and also has eight Receptions for 49 Yards. He is still a top tier fantasy running back and if Jacksonville is going to find its Offense, it’s going to be on his back. He should bounce back nicely this week against St. Louis.

RB – Chris Johnson – Tennessee Titans – 9 Carries, 34 Yards, 2 Receptions, 9 Yards

Another disappointing week from another top tier fantasy running back. Johnson had just 43 total Yards against Indianapolis last week and no Touchdowns. He is still a must start fantasy running back, but faces a tough matchup against New England this week.

WR – DeSean Jackson – Philadelphia Eagles – 1 Reception, 1 Yard

This was horrible. All that Offense against a terrible Tampa Bay Defense and Jackson didn’t get anything? He had just one catch for one yard, even with the return of Donovan McNabb. He should bounce back this week against Oakland.

WR – Calvin Johnson – Detroit Lions – 1 Reception, 2 Yards

This had more to do with his injury than with the way Detroit played against Pittsburgh. If he had played more, he probably would have had more production. However, most people started him and got just one catch for two yards. If he is healthy enough to play this week, he should bounce back against Green Bay.

WR – Pierre Garcon – Indianapolis Colts – 1 Reception, 9 Yards

After two weeks of fantasy production, Garcon fell back to earth last week against Tennessee. He had just one catch for nine yards, even with Peyton Manning throwing for over 300 Yards. He is still going to get plenty of playing time with Anthony Gonzalez out and you should keep him stashed on the bench until after the week six bye.

TE – John Carlson – Seattle Seahawks – 2 Receptions, 31 Yards

Carlson started out the season on fire with 12 Receptions for 141 Yards and two Touchdowns in the first two games, but has since cooled off with just 10 Receptions for 98 Yards in the last three. With Matt Hasselbeck back from injury, he should see more production and should bounce back this week against Arizona.

Waiver Wire Wonders

WR – Austin Collie – Indianapolis Colts – 8 Receptions, 97 Yards, 2 TD

Collie has come out of nowhere to have back to back productive weeks. He has 14 Receptions for 162 Yards and three Touchdowns in the past two weeks and appears to be in line for more. Even though he is on a bye week this week, you should still grab him while you can as he is now owned in 55 percent of CBS Sports/NFL.Com leagues, 15 percent of ESPN leagues, and 40 percent of Yahoo leagues.

WR – Jeremy Maclin – Philadelphia Eagles – 6 Receptions, 142 Yards, 2 TD

Maclin showed the world why he was drafted in the first round by the Eagles this past week. Starting for the injured Kevin Curtis, he caught six passes for 142 Yards and two long Touchdowns (51 Yards and 40 Yards). He looks to be a safe play with a great matchup against Oakland this week. He is going fast, being owned in 74 percent of CBS Sports/NFL.Com leagues, 29.4 percent of ESPN leagues, and 50 percent of Yahoo leagues.

That’s all for now sports fans. Any questions or concerns, email me at Derek@Sportmeisters.com.

This post was submitted by The Sportmeisters.

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