Final Project: "Albia Buck"

The "Albia Buck"

Tony Lovstuen's life forever changed the day he hit the 38 point 307 5/8 scored "Albia Buck," the largest buck ever shot in the world. Hunter all over the world dream about landing a buck the way this 15-year old kid did.

"That buck is in a class all its own. There were hunters from all over the United States, even the world, who were trying to get deer tags to hunt in Iowa because they wanted to hunt the Albia buck," said Dale Ream, an official measurer from Missouri for the Boone & Crockett Club in a previous statement. The club is said to be the most recognized scoring system.

Exerpt from final project:

Iowan Dustin Gaskill also has dreamt about landing a large buck. The recent 170 scored buck he shot was nothing compared to the "Albia Buck," but that won't deter him from the state of Iowa.

“I never shot one that big, but there’s the possibility of always hitting one like that,” he said. “Especially in the state of Iowa.

Last hunting season, Gaskill shot a deer with an arrow. After waiting the standard 45 minutes or so for the deer to fully die, he stepped out of his tree stand only to see the deer run away.

“It wasn’t dead yet,” he said. “It was the biggest buck I ever shot. We just lost the blood trail. Never could find it. The point of the chip is, you don’t need a blood trail. You turn that sucker on and it takes you within 2-5 feet of the deer.”

Gaskill used the “Albia Buck” as an example of not wanting to lose the deer of his life. He said that “Albia Buck,” was a once in a lifetime buck that has made millions of dollars in endorsements. That is part of the reason he created a mircochip to help locate the wounded animal.

Here's a video of the "Albia Buck." The Lovstuen family watched the buck for almost five years.

"They knew everything about him," Gaskill said. "They made him not nocturnal. So they could keep him up during the day. Some people take it really serious."

Richard Lapchick

Richard Lapchick of The University of Florida produced two articles titled "The Racial and Gender Report Card" and "The Racial and Gender Report Card of Associated Press Sports Editors." Lapchick grades the world of sports in both the media and the profession in terms of race and gender.

The reports cards bring to the light the fact that the white man rules the world. In the APSE article, the number of white males greatly outweighs other categories. The professional sports numbers were better, but still swayed. The piece show that there is still a disparity in the number of women and people of color holding jobs in the sports. However, there has been an increase in diversity among these jobs, a sign that maybe things are getting better.

I thought the most astonishing of all the grades, were the ones recieved by the Assoicate Press Sports Editors. The grades for the total staffs were a C+ for race and an F for gender. For the ediotors, both gender and race received an F. 94% of the editors were white males. Also there were only 20 people of color found in a sports editor position.

To me this is just astounding that the number is so low. I think it's sad to live in a world where you won't even get a chance at a job because of your race or gender.
Some people beleieve that the best person deserves the job. There have been situations where a person gets a job or an increased opportunity because of their race. I have seen in with admittance into school and with head coaching postitions in professional football.

I believe in fairness and an equal opportunity to get a job, but just that. I think there's a fine line, and it can be very difficult to not cross.

Everyone's perceptions are shaped by their unique experiences that make them who they are. It is always going to be hard to please everybody, because everyone is different. I think it's important to be able to refer to these report cards to let us know the progress we are making. Hopefully, the number of women, and people from other racial backrounds will continue getting the opportunities and making their great contributions to the world.

Twitter

For many readers, Twitter has become the new media tool for many news and communication enthusiasts throughout the world. While Twitter continues to grow, many people are left wondering whether or not the information they received is factual. However, Twitter can be used effectively and in a positive way.

The media uses Twitter for good in many ways. First, Twitter can be used to post quick updates and links to larger stories. Sometimes print media doesn't always have luxury to get out information as quickly as television and radio. Therefore Twitter can be used to post small updates and quick useful information. Here, you can sort through short posts and choose to read more about any subject.

Another way the media uses Twitter in a positive way is to promote their stories. Frequently, many readers miss certain stories because they may or may not be in the newspapers. Here you may follow an author and he may post a link to his or her story. As a journalist doing this, you can boost web hits, revenue, and financial viablilty.

To combat any debatable information, many Twitter users follow certain authors, journalists, or celebrities for news. Here readers tend to choose which journalists they find to be the most trustworthy, and then build a reading/media relationship. While doing this, you can find which readers you trust and which information is useful and truthful. Also you can interact with the writers more quickly to

Reporting should never be confused with gossip. Real reporting is based on factual information. When writers using Twitter are reporting factual information, they cite and usually use multiple sources. The media is trying to sway readers in their direction, by only printing truthful and accurate information.

Now that Twitter has become a large landscape of news, many people also think they can relay information. However, the media remains committed to providing the most factual and reputable work possible.

Check out NFL NATION LIVE

NFL Nation Live, brought to you by ESPN is chat with fantasy football bloggers and reporters sharing info and insight. The site is filled with polls, news, and information for your team.

Check it our here: http://espn.go.com/blog/nflnation/post/_/id/11891/nfl-nation-live-10

Week 10 injury updates

Here's an injury update courtest of ESPN:

http://sports.espn.go.com/fantasy/football/ffl/story?id=4651422

And CBS: http://fantasynews.cbssports.com/fantasyfootball/injuries

Pay or Play Week # 10

Quarterbacks: Joe Flacco, Bal.
Flacco hasn't been putting up eye-popping numbers much lately but that's all about to change. With the Ravens set to travel to Cleveland, expect Flacco to put up a big game. The first time these two met in week #3, Flacco torched the Ravens for a career high 342 yards passing and a score.

Oh so close: Matt Hasselbeck, Sea.
You might be asking why I'm putting this guy here. The Seahawks are still in disarray. And in Week #6 when the Seahawks welcomes the Cards to Seattle, they were almost shut out losing 27-3. This week will be different. With Hasselbeck finally healthy I expect him to put up respectable numbers.

Running backs: Ray Rice, Bal.
I usually don't like to have fantasy studs on this list, however there are still a few owners not on who do not consider this old Rutgers star. When the Ravens saw the Browns in week #3, Rice was still splitting carries with Willis McGahee. Now Rice is the guy. Expect big things.

Oh so close: Pierre Thomas, N.O.
Similar to Rice, there are still some owners not believing in this guy, bases on the 20% of ESPN owners who still have this guy on their bench. This guy may be the most underrated consistent running back in football.

Wide receivers: Sidney Rice, Min.
Rice may be the best Rice on this board. Well probably not, but he is the best pass catcher the Vikings have. This guy is also Favre's most trusted target, and they're going to see the Lions this week. Enough said.

Oh so close: Nate Burleson, Sea.
Burleson has finally lived up to his hype. This season, Burleson has become a trusted target for Hasselbeck as well a play maker. This week I expect the trend to continue.

Tight ends: Brent Celek, Phi.
Celek has only had less than 3 fantasy points and 3 receptions once. Another safety valve for McNabb in a high octane passing offense. Celek also has touchdowns in his last two games. He's a safe start.

Oh so close: Jeremy Shockey, N.O..
Shockey has redeemed himself and his career after falling short the last few seasons in New York. He's went for over 200 yards his last three games and with the Saints ready to take on the lowly Rams, he's a good start this week.

Defense: Jets
The Jets will see the Jaguars this week. With the Jaguars inept offense, expect the Jets to contain Jones-Drew and go on to win this game big.

Oh so close: Dolphins
The Dolphins have been an up-and-down team all season long. Winning some big games, and losing some games they should have won. However this week in a battle of South Florida, expect the Dolphins to hold the Bucs and their rookie quarterback to low points.

Injury Updates

Here's the list of inactives courtesy of ESPN

http://sports.espn.go.com/fantasy/football/ffl/story?id=4626700

and CBS sports.

http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/injuries

Pay or Play Week # 9

Quarterbacks: Matt Schaub, Hou.

Schaub should be considered even more this week considering the Colts just lost cornerback Marlon Jackson and Pro Bowl safety Bob Sanders for the year. Expect Schaub to put up better numbers than usual, which is great.

Oh so close: Matt Ryan, Atl.

The Falcons have the Redskins this week and Ryan has been on fire as of late. He finally has his rapport back with receiver Roddy White, and tight end Tony Gonzalez had a season-high 89 yards last week. Expect more of the same.

Runningbacks: Lesean McCoy, Phi.

McCoy will be the man this week with Westbrook taking another seat to rest his injuries. With the game being played on Sunday night in front of of a national audience, McCoy should have plenty of motivation.

Oh so close: Pierre Thomas, N.O.

Thomas should be in store for a great week. Carolina can't stop the run, and Thomas has been productive all season. I'm not expecting a huge game, but he's almost the safest play besides Adrian Peterson, and he's on a bye week.

Wide Receivers: Andre Johnson, Hou.

I know he's arguably the best receiver in the league and you would start him regardless of my input, but come on. Johnson should have a great day with the Colts secondary hurting. ( See Schaub, Matt.) With a rookie covering Johnson, well you get the idea.

Oh so close: T.J Houshmandzadeh

The Seahawks have the Lions this week, and that's almost enough information to start. But the Seahawks play great at home and should be good to score numerous touchdowns.

Tight Ends: Brent Celek, Phi.

This guy has been consistent all season long, catching less than 4 passes in a game once this season. McNabb loves the tight end, and this one is primed for a shootout.

Oh so close: Greg Olsen, Chi.

The Bears and fans have been waiting for Cutler to finally get it going with his tight end. This week they'll see the Cardinals where they have had trouble covering the tight end. Cutler will be looking Olsen's way all day.

Defense: Falcons

The Falcons will see the Redskins this week who are in complete disarray. They have no almost no passing game, and the running game just hasn't been there this year. The Falcons have also given up the least amount of points in the NFC South this year.

Oh so close: 49ers

The 'Niners should also be primed for a big day when they face the lowly Titans. The Titans running game should be able to get going, but I don't for see Vince Young doing much this week.

2009-10 Iowa City West Trojans High School Girl's Basketball Season Preview

Despite losing their top scorers and missing the state basketball tournament last season, Iowa City West is hoping for a Trojan horse of it's own.

The Trojans women's basketball team enters the season missing 25.7 p.p.g. after graduating two top players. However head coach B.J. Mayer doesn't expect that to deter them.

"We always want to expect a post-season run," Mayer said. "We feel we play in a top conference in the state, and just by doing that it gets us better competition and makes you improve in order to compete. When we get to tournament time hopefully we can be playing our best basketball and have that good experience playing in the Mississippi Valley Conference."

Last season, the Trojans relied heavily upon graduated seniors Emma Krieger-Kittle and Madison Sadecky who averaged 15.3 p.p.g. and 10.4 p.p.g. while both shooting over 60% from the field.

Krieger-Kittle and Sadecky led the Trojans to perhaps the most successful season in Trojans girl's basketball history going 16-6. Mayer is hoping the experience and success of last season, will fuel this season's squad.

"In sports it's very difficult to get tot he next level until you've been there once," he said. "At West, nobody in the girl's basketball program has ever been to the state tournament. So to get to the game before state was just a huge confidence builder. Now they could kind of see what it's like to get to that level. It becomes a different kind of atmosphere, night in and night out.

"I just think the more experience you have in those types of games, better prepares you not only as a coaching staff but players who have been there."

Mayer said Iowa City West has a strong tradition in athletics, and is hoping to soon continue that success this season with the basketball program.

This season the Trojans will be looking to seniors Reed Mackenzie and Kristin Fomon, who have to step up their scoring after averaging 5.2 and 5.9 p.p.g. last season.

A strong start is what Mayer said may mean the difference between taking a step back and having another successful season.

"I think it's going to be very important that we're able to get off to a good start," Mayer said. "Just get our young kids some confidence and hopefully allow them to play a little bit more relaxed."

John Vincent Piece

Equitable Media Coverage of Female and Male Athletics: Is there a solution?
By: John Vincent Assistant professor of Sports Management at The University of Alabama


The article primarily focuses on media coverage of both male and female athletes and the inequity in the amount of coverage.

Vincent's study used numerous empirical studies investigating the interaction of gender, sport, and media have consistently found that media coverage of female athletes hasn't equaled their athletic achievements. "Studies of media coverage of female athletes shows that they are generally under-represented compared to their male counterparts," Vincent writes. He goes on to write how women only receive 10 percent of print media coverage.

Even when women do get coverage most of it is constructed to place them in their stereotypical roles doing things women would be seen as doing. Vincent said that research shows that women who participate in sports that are deemed as "fit for women" receive more electronic print media coverage than athletes who compete in more "gender inappropriate" sports as Vincent refers to it as.

Vincent said that the majority of media coverage on athletes is focused on men and their athletic ability and their heterosexuality.

Recently in Europe, coverage was thought to be swaying in the direction of a 50-50 share in coverage. The tennis coverage there was getting an equal amount of coverage. After more thorough investigation, the aim for the coverage was directed at men and therefor they've concluded that media coverage is predominantly directed at men. So we've yet to make any progress on that front.

To make sure they were getting the right information, in terms of quantity and equitable coverage they looked at several categories. Quantity of coverage, quality of coverage, position on page, content and quality of photo, balance coverage etc.

As far as Vincent's recommendations, I am not exactly sure if they will ever happen, but I think he makes some very insightful points. It's sad to say, but most sports revolve around male athletes because we perceive them to be the best in the world, and always are obsessed with getting the best. Stories on female athletes do tend focus on them being females, mothers, or something other than their actual sports. Until the majority of the world, and especially the media begin to take women more seriously in the world of sports, then I doubt there will be equitable coverage anytime soon.

Column for Sports Reporting and Writing class

There's a lie being told in wins and losses that do not tell the whole story. Six weeks into the NFL season and statistically speaking, Broncos quarterback Kyle Orton is a better quarterback than Bears signal caller Jay Cutler. Again, statistics have never told more of a lie.

While the numbers may point in Orton's direction, that does not mean the he is the better quarterback. Fist we must take into account that we are not even one third of the way done with the season. So we can throw records out the window.

Now even though Orton may have the better record at 5-0, the Broncos schedule hasn't been the most difficult this far into the season. The Broncos have seen two of the worst teams in the league in the Browns and the Raiders. Not exactly formidable opponents.

In the Broncos first game of the season, Denver was bailed out on a last second "never going to happen again" play. Without the improbable catch (and catch of the year) by wide receiver Brandon Stokley the broncos would no longer be undefeated, and in the same position as the Bears.

I bet Denver is ecstatic with the NFL schedule makers, who have doomed the Broncos from the beginning. The remaining schedule for the Broncos won't allow them to roll through the rest of the season, the way they did to start the season.

Denver will see the Ravens, Steelers, Giants, Colts, Eagles, and the Chargers. Now after this rough stretch I might be willing to anoint them among the best in the league. But until then let's just leave them where they are. An undefeated, but unchallenged team.

Don't even get me started on their supporting casts. The Bears haven't done anything to help Cutler. Forte isn't rushing the way he did when Orton was there. The O-line is suspect. I think it is unfair to compare Cutler to Orton this year.

Denver's defense is dominating this year. Their defense is the second best defense in total yards allowed per game. Last season the Buckin' Broncs were No. 29 out of 32 NFL teams when Cutler was in the saddle. Now one could argue, how in the world is this an even level of comparison when the two teams are drastically different than a year ago, and set up for Cutler to take the blame.

When a defense can't stop the other team, you're forcing your quarterback to play catch-up on a consistent basis, only calling for picks. How fair is it to compare them?

Ask anyone in the Bears organization who they think got the better end of the Cutler deal, and I'm willing to bet every single one of them will tell you the Bears did. They already say they have seen nothing like him, and he has the tools to be one of the greats. Even Denver would rather have him, I guarantee it.

Orton isn't going to win them any games, but he won't take them out of many either. Cutler has the ability to win games. He has the ability to take the team on his shoulders and win games by himself.

With more time to develop a rapport with his receivers and tight ends, he's sure to improve. Week after week they seem to be developing trust in one another.

I'm liking what I'm seeing from Cutler, not just for this season. But for years to come.

I know it's not too early to say this, but... I wouldn't want it any other way.

Last Second Injury Report

Here are this week's inactives courtesy of ESPN.

http://sports.espn.go.com/fantasy/football/ffl/story?id=4565365

Pay or Play Week # 6

Quarterbacks: Matt Hasselbeck, Sea.

Hasselbeck should be involved in a shootout with Arizona this week. Last week at Jacksonville, Hasselbeck tossed four touchdowns on their way to a blowout victory. Expect more of the same this week.

Oh so close: Matt Schaub, Hou.

Schaub should be in store for a huge week against Cincinnati. Lately he's been on fire, and he's finally got both of his wideouts healthy as Kevin Walter finally looks to be over his injury.

Running Backs: Cedric Benson, Cin.

Oh how painful it is to put this guy here. (Bears fan) However the guy has earned his stripes in 'Nati. Look for a good week as he sees a porous Texans run defense.

Oh so close: Rashard Mendenhall, Pit.

He's going here because most people are skeptical of the play because Willie Parker will be back this week. I still see Mendenhall getting the bulk of the carries and putting up big numbers this week.

Wide Receivers: Mike Sims-Walker, Jac.

This guy has been nothing but a pleasant surprise this year in the Sunshine state. He sees the Rams this week, and honestly both teams look bad. I see a potential sleeper shootout in the making.

Oh so close: Devin Hester, Chi.

I know I'm kind of going out on a limb, but I like him or Johnny Knox this week. I could see either of these guys catching a big pass for a score this week. Which one? Who knows. This one was decided with a coin flip.

Tight Ends: Tony Gonzalez, Atl.

He didn't score last week because Roddy White had a career day. Expect the Bears defense to key on White opening the middle for Gonzo.

Oh so close: Brent Celek, Phi.

This is another guy who has been pleasant surprise all year. Andy Reid had to know what he had when he let L.J. Smith go in the off season.

Defense: Redskins

I like the Redskins this week for two reasons. One they play the lowly Chiefs. And two they have been averaging almost three sacks and a pick a game. Not bad numbers considering some of the competition they've faced this year.

Oh so close: Broncos

They Broncos have been playing well all year. I expect more of the same to continue in San Diego this week. Expect a lot of turnovers and surprise game from the Broncos.

Calvin Johnson out week # 6

For all your Megatron fans, Calvin Johnson will be sitting this weekend. It's advised that you place him on your bench as soon as possible. Read the report here.

http://espn.go.com/blog/nfcnorth/post/_/id/4813/nfc-north-friday-injury-report-4

Photos courtesy of hawkfantasysports.com

Injury Updates

Inactive:

Felix Jones, Dal
Roy E. Williams, Dal
Byron Leftwich, TB
Earnest Graham, TB
Kevin Curtis, Phi
Matthew Stafford, Det
Willie Parker, Pit

Active:

Donovan McNabb, Phi
Kurt Warner, Ari
Matt Hasselbeck, Sea
Brian Westbrook, Phi
Eli Manning, NYG
Jamal Lewis, Cle
Jonathan Stewart, Car
Antonio Bryant, TB
Calvin Johson, Det

Click below for Injury reports from Yahoo and ESPN.

Yahoo injury report.

ESPN injury report.

Injury Updates

Look to Stephania Bell from ESPN for her injury updates. Check back later for more comprehensive injury coverage.

Pay of Play Week #5

Quarterbacks: Donovan McNabb, Phi.

The Eagles will finally get their man back as McNabb looks good to go this weekend against the Buccaneers. McNabb did only play half the game the first week at Carolina, but he did throw for two touchdowns in his brief appearance. The Eagles are and always have been a passing team, look for that to continue with McNabb back.

Oh so close: David Garrard, Jac.

Everyone has been torching the Seahawks this year, and Garrard has quietly put together a good season. He threw three touchdowns last week against the Titans, and I could definitely see more of the same here.

Running Backs: Brian Westbrook, Phi.

Just because I said the Eagles were a passing team doesn't mean they don't run the ball well and score some your team some fantasy points. It wouldn't surprise me to see him score you some decent fantasy points in a week where most people are reluctant to start him.

Oh so close: Rashard Mendenhall, Pit.

Mendenhall went off last week at San Diego rushing for 165 yards and two touchdowns. Mendenhall faces the Lions this week, and the Steelers will look to get back to running the ball. Also, expect them to be up, therefore running ball to waste the clock.

Wide Receivers: Mike Sims-Walker, Jac.

This is starting to sound like a Jaguar-Eagle love-fest. But honestly, it's just a coincidence that I like all of these players this week, then again they won't see the stiffest competition this week.

Sims-Walker has proved me wrong every game so far and has definitely established himself as the Jaguars go-to-guy.

Oh so close: Roddy White, Atl.

I want to put this guy here so badly because I was really high on him in the preseason and he has yet to have a big game. He was Matt Ryan's guy last year and I think he'll establish himself as that again beginning this week.

Tight Ends: Vernon Davis, S.F.

I can't believe I actually have this guy here, but he has proved me wrong again and again this year, and seems to have a special rapport with quarterback Shaun Hill.

Oh so close: John Carlson, Sea.

Carlson will be getting his best friend back in Matt Hasselbeck. In the first week with Hasselbeck commanding the offense, Carlson caught six passes for 95 yards and two touchdowns. Don't expect those big of numbers, but maybe something similar with one less touchdown.

Defense: Jets

I really like the Jets this week because they will be seeing a young quarterback starting only his second game this season playing a team who usually stops the run pretty well. I like the Jets to stop the wildcat and the Dolphins.

Oh so close: Colts

Now I'm putting the Colts here, because I think if they can figure out how to stop Chris Johnson this week, they would have a huge week. Seeing as that's a big "if," it's still a gamble.

Photos courtesy of ESPN and Chris Graythen, Getty Images.

Injury Updates

Active:

Antonio Bryant
Wes Welker
Kevin Smith
Dwyane Bowe
Matt Forte
Cedric Benson
LenDale White
Derrick Mason
Clinton Portis
LaDainian Tomlinson

Inactive:

Domenik Hixon
Derrick Ward
Jamal Lewis
Matt Hasselbeck
Mike Bell
Frank Gore
Willie Parker

Pay or Play Week #4

Quarterback: Jay Cutler, Chi.

I might be a bears fan, but this guy is going to go off on Sunday and so will the rest of the Bears position players on offense against the Lions. I know I've had him here before, but I think owners who drafted him have been happy with what they've gotten so far.
Oh so close: Shaun Hill, S.F.
Hill should be a more than viable bye week replacement for all you Matt Ryan and Kurt Warner owners. He should really do well this week considering the defense he'll be seeing in the rams.

Running Back: Matt Forte, Chi.
See Cuter, Jay. This guy is primed for his first big week, possibly justifying his first round status he held at the beginning of the week.
Oh so close: Cedric Benson, Cin.
It really hurts to put this guy here because I wasn't high on him for various reasons. But honestly, who hasn't torched the Browns this year. Expect Benson to do the same.

Wide Receiver: Steve Smith, NYG (This guy should no longer be considered "the other Steve Smith.) Seriously though, this guy is averaging almost eight cathches a game and is easily Eli Manning's top target.
Oh so close: Johnny Knox, Chi.
Again, here's another Bears guy I see playing well here, He's got the potential to go for the score at any time.

Tight End: Vernon Davis, S.F.
This guy belongs on the same list as Cedric Benson, player's I didn't think we're going to do much this season. Davis however caught two touchdowns last week, and someone will have to catch Hills passes against a porous Rams defense this week.
Oh so close: Owen Daniels, Hou.
I really like Daniels to have a big game this week. He's been Schaub's safety valve all year.

Defense: 49ers
The 'Niners have had a change in culture in their locker room at the hands off their head coach. They're playing the Rams, and there's a guy by the name of Patrick Willis who I really like.
Oh so close: Bears
What, you thought I would have no love for the defense? I don't know if I'd want them the rest of the way, but this week they are good to go.

You better play, or be prepared to pay.

Injury Updates

Active:

Desean Jackson, PHI

Randy Moss, NE

Kevin Walter, HOU

Antonio Bryant, TB

Inactive:

Donovan McNabb, PHI

Brian Westbrook, PHI

Wes Welker, NE

Dwayne Bowe, KC

Matt Hasselbeck, SEA

LaDainian Tomlinson, SD

Mike Bell, NO

Jamal Lewis, CLE

Pay or Play Week #3

Quarterback: Trent Edwards, Buf

Edwards is an a spread passing offense, and that's exactly why he's here for week three. Expect Edward to give you great numbers shooting it out with the Saints.

Oh so close: Aaron Rodgers, GB

I think Rodgers gets his first big game of the year here, going up against a porous Rams defense.

Running Back: Matt Forte, Chi

Forte has been a downer so far this year. He isn't putting up the numbers to justify a No. 4 overall pick. However, I think he finally gets it going this week against the Seahawks.

Oh so close: Lesean McCoy, PHI

If Westbrook doesn't play, the ball is McCoy's. McCoy is explosive enough to do some damage at KC.

Wide Receiver: Roddy White, ATL

I know he's playing the Patriots, but this will be a better game then most think. I think Roddy White and the Falcons will find themselves having to pass to win. This bodes well for White, who has been waiting to break out.

Oh so close: Terrell Owens, BUF

Owens will have his first big game playing the Saints. Another shootout in the making.

Tight End: Chris Cooley, WAS

Cooley might be the best tight end no one talks about. He's got the Lions this week and he should be in store for a huge week. Play 'em and don't look back.

Oh so close: Brent Celek, PHI

I think the Eagles will have to rely on the running backs and tight ends to win this week without McNabb again. Look for Kolb to find Celek early and often.

Defense: Packers

The Packers should be ready for a lot of turnovers playing the lowly Rams this week. Look for them to go big.

Oh so close: Eagles

The Eagles should also be in store for a big week playing the Chiefs at home. Start 'em with confidence.

Marion Barber Out Week #3?

Marion Barber out? It might be true.

The Dallas Cowboys might without starting running back Marion Barber this weekend when they take on the Carolina Panthers.

So who's your man?

If Barber is unable to go, expect sophomore Felix Jones to get the majority of the carries, with Tashard Choice possibly cutting into a few carries. Jones has the biggest value here, as he is more explosive than Barber, and a better overall back than Choice.

Along with being sidelined this week, there's already the possibility of sitting out next week as well. Read the story from ESPN here.

Fantasy Football Fiend's of the Week

Quarterbacks: Matt Schaub, Hou
This one comes to no surprise hopefully as he torched the Titans going 25-39 for 357 yard and four Touchdowns. It's even more surprising considering it was against the Titans defense and their No. 2 wideout Kevin Walter sat out in a game time decision.

Oh so close: Byron Leftwich, TB
I'm giving this to Leftwich because a lot of owners had him on their bench on Sunday and he threw the ball 50 times!! He threw 41 times the week before, so it's looking like a pattern.


Running Backs: Chris Johnson, Ten.
C.J. was electrifying this weekend averaging 12.3 ypc and totaling 197 yards and two touchdowns on 16 carries while hauling in 9 receptions for 87 yards and another touchdown. Houston had a problem.

Oh so close: Frank Gore, SF
How could we forget him. He had over 100 yards and a touchdown in the first quarter. He even had a higher ypc than C.J. at 12.9. Gore ran for 207 yards on 16 carries and caught 5 passes for 39 yards against a porous Seahawks defense.


Wide Receivers: Andre Johnson, Hou.
Remember when I told you to play or pay last week. He should have been started across the board and showed everyone why he might be the best receiver in football. He caught 10 passes for 149 yards and two touchdowns in week 2 against the Titans.

Oh so close: Mario Manningham, NYG
Super Mario tore up the Cowboys this week catching 10 passes for 150 yards and a touchdown. Manning may have found another reliable target.


Tight Ends: Dallas Clark, Ind.
The ex-Hawkeye caught seven passes for 183 yards and touchdown in week 2 against the Dolphins on Monday Night Football. Manning and the Colts were outplayed most of the game, but that didn't stop them from pulling of a win. They became the record holders for winning a game with the least amount of time of possession.
Oh so close: Kellen Winslow, TB
Kellen Winslow looks to be a favorite target of Tampa Bay quarterback Byron Leftwich. The Bucs will most likely be playing from behind a lot, they did again this week. He hauled in seven passes for 90 yards and a touchdown.


Defense: Broncos
The Broncos did well Sunday allowing only six points while recovering two fumbles, intercepting a pass and adding four sacks. This was unexpected.

Oh so close: Cardinals
The cardinals has four forced fumbles, one interception and a defensive touchdown in a nice defensive showing.

Injury Updates

Injury Report

Out:

Quarterbacks:

Donovan Mcnabb, PHI

Running Backs:

Ladainian Tomlinson, SD


Wide Receivers:

Antonio Bryant, TB

Wes Welker, NE

Anthony Gonzalez, IND

Tight Ends:

Bo Scaife, Ten

Injury Updates

Quarterbacks:

Donovan McNabb, PHI - It doesn't look like McNabb is going to play. Kevin Kolb should get the start here if he doesn't go. It's still a game time decision, but early reports don't sound encouraging. I'd look elsewhere for week 2.

Matt Cassel, KC- Cassel practiced this week, just not a full practice. Coach Todd Haley said Cassel would play if he participated in a full practice. It sounds like he's going to play, but I don't know if I'd want to start him just yet.

Tony Romo, DAL - Had tests on right ankle, all were negative. Looks good to go.


Running Backs:

LaDainian Tomlinson, SD - Tomlinson hurt his ankle week 1 and has been ruled out week 2 against the Ravens. Look for Darren Sproles to get the start in his place.

Pierre Thomas, NO- Thomas says he is going to play. Even if he does, because of the injury he will likely not see enough playing time to factor into fantasy this weekend.


Wide Receivers:

Anthony Gonzalez, IND - Gonzalez suffered a ligament sprain in week one and is not going to play. He is going to be out anywhere from 4-8 weeks.

Anquan Boldin, ARI - Boldin didn't do much week one. Word in Arizona is that he's still injured from the preseason. He hasn't participated in a full practice since late August, but he appears like he's going to play this week. Keep expectations low if you start him.

Kevin Walter, HOU - Walter participated in practice fully this week and appears good to go after sitting out week one with a hamstring injury. He sounds go to go, and with Andre Johnson opposite him, he could have a decent game.

Play or Pay Week # 2

You better play 'em, or be prepared to pay.


Quarterbacks- Jay Cutler, Chi.
I know this is pretty far out there, but what would be the point of putting Drew Brees here, seriously. And yes I know he's playing a very stingy Steelers defense, but they are going to have to pass to win. With Troy Polamalu out for the game, the bears should be able to exploit the Steelers secondary. Cutler is also coming off one of his worst games statistically. He should be motivated to do well in his first home game wearing the Bears uniform. Now it's just a matter of someone catching the ball. Oh so close: Matt Hasselbeck, Sea., he has a plethura of capable receivers and a good matchup this week.


Running Backs- Clinton Portis, Was.
Portis should have a field day on the Rams this week. The Redskins don't have much of a passing game and they won't need it against the Rams. It wouldn't surprise me to see him to eclipse the century mark with a couple of scores.
Oh so close: Maurice Jones-Drew, Jac., he's gonna go off.


Wide Receivers- Andre Johnson, Hou.
I know he's a star and most people expect his name to be here week in and week out, but I think he's going to have a huge week. Last week was a dud, and I don't foresee many more of those. He might be the best receiver in football
Oh so close: Lee Evans, Buf. I really like Evans this week, The Cowboys torched the Bucs last week and with a lot of focus on T.O., I like Evans to come up big.


Tight Ends- Chris Cooley, Wash.
Again, the Redskins are playing the Rams and that means good things for the Redskins offense. Cooley had 82 receptions a year ago, and I think he has the opportunity to finish in the top 5 of tight ends in scoring this year.
Oh so close: Greg Olsen, Chi.
I like Olsen to come up big this week for his quarterback.


Defense-Vikings
The Vikings are playing the Lions. Enough said. This defense should be good for an interception or two, as well as some sacks.
Oh so close: Packers, They have the Bengals this week and looked pretty good last week transitioning from the 4-3 to the 3-4.

Can I get my quarterback please?

Quarterbacks have taken a huge hit over these past several weeks. We seen Chiefs quarterback Matt Cassel go down a few weeks ago with an injury, and now Donovan McNabb.

Matt Cassel is practicing and looks like he's moving around o.k. Reports out of ESPN and comments from Chiefs Head Coach Todd Haley sound encouraging.

"No. 7, as I felt he would, he moved around a lot better than he did at the end of the week," Haley said. Again this is going to be an evaluation deal with him. He did not participate in the entire practice, so he'll go on the injury report as questionable today."

Donovan McNabb is a different story broke his rib on a meaningless play in the Eagles 38-10 victory over the Carolina Panthers. McNabb sat on the sidelines at practice, and his status for this Sunday is up in the air still.

The Eagles have also signed Veteran Jeff Garcia to back up Kevin Kolb in the event that McNabb can't go this Sunday. That will now give them four quarterbacks when Michael Vick comes back from suspension in week 3.

Garcia is no stranger to the Eagles leading them to an unlikely playoff run in 2006, and coming in to back up McNabb. Garcia is probably one of the best backup quarterback's in the league.

Eagles Head Coach Andy Reid said it's an unknown how long McNabb will be out, but there is a possiblility that he plays on Sunday.

Fantasy Football Fiend's of the week

What a great way to open the NFL season, except if your a Bears fan, which this guy just so happens to be. This will be the first of a weekly feature of fantasy football's players of the week, or as I like to say it, the "fiend" of the week. Also i will try analyze some of this information and give you some insight.

Quarterback: Drew Brees, NO

I'd be Crazy not to put Drew Brees Here. He tore up the Lions going 26-34 for 358 and a career best six touchdowns. Brees definitely established himself as the number one fantasy quarterback. He'll be manning an offense that should put up great fantasy points across the board. Don't expect many 6 touchdown games in the future, but the yardage isn't outrageous on a game to game basis.

Oh so close: Tony Romo, Dal. 16-27 for 353 yards and three touchdowns. He didn't miss a beat without T.O. there. Looks like the rest of the Cowboy receivers are ready to step up.

Running Back: Adrian Peterson, Min.

Like Brees, I'd be crazy to not put Peterson here. He dominated the Cleveland Browns, rushing for 180 yards on 25 carries and scoring three touchdowns. His next four opponents consist of the Lions, 49ers, Packers, and Rams. I like his chances the next few weeks.

Oh so close: Thomas Jones NYJ., rushed 20 times for 107 yards and two touchdowns. I almost wanted to put him ahead of Peterson, because he was kind of an afterthought with all that Leon Washington talk.

Wide Receiver: Reggie Wayne, Ind.

Wayne caught 10 passes for for a league leading 161 yards and a touchdown. If you're in a league that hands out bonuses for 10+ receptions, kudos to you. With Anthony Gonzalez out for awhile, Manning will continue to look his way.

Oh so close: Brandon Stokley, Den. He gets this because if anyone did have this guy on their roster, they were getting razzed about it from their friends until about 11 seconds left in the game. Since it was so unlikely, I put it here.

Tight End: John Carlson, Sea.

Carlson caught six passes for 95 yards and two touchdowns against the Rams. He looked like Hasselbeck's safety valve, and with 8 targets on the game, its really saying something.

Oh so close: Benjamin Watson NE, Watson caught six passes for 77 yards and two touchdowns as well. Tom Brady said he made probably the best catch he has ever seen him make. Sounds like Watson has earned Brady's trust.

Defense: Eagles

Like Brees, the Eagles blew away the rest of the fantasy competition at their position. They had five interceptions, five sacks, two forced fumbles, and two defensive touchdowns, and a special teams touchdown. Wow.

Oh so close: The Jets defense goes here. They shut out the Texans. The Texans aren't too shabby either. They held them to 38 yards rushing and a league low 183 total yards of offense.

Stafford's Starting, should we?

The Lions and head coach Jim Schwartz have named their starting quarterback. No, it's not Duante Culpepper or Drew Stanton. The days of should be piano-playing Joey Harrington are years behind us now. It's now the league's youngest starting quarterback, Matthew Stafford.

What are we to take away from this in a fantasy perspective? Well if you're in a keeper league, he was probably already drafted, or he should have been. If he wasn't and you got him, wow. If you're in a two quarterback league and he isn't already on some team's bench, you might want to grab him while you can. Now I'm not saying we have the next Matt Ryan or Joe Flacco on our hands, but he is worth a look in deeper leagues because he is throwing to superstar a receiver in Calvin Johnson.

Sure, the Lions will again have one of the worst teams in the leagues, but that doesn't mean they won't be involved in plenty of shootouts while trying to play catch up.

Don't forget that just a few short years ago 2006 Jon Kitna passed for over 4,200 yards and 21 touchdowns, all with a less talented team, and Kitna didn't necessarily have the tools that Stafford has. The 2006 version of the Lions didn't feature Megatron, or Kevin Smith, a more than capable runner and pass catcher. The Lions also drafted tight-end Brandon Pettigrew out of Oklahoma State in the first round to give Stafford his safety valve for years to come.

The history of junior quarterbacks entering the NFL doesn't exactly play in favor of Stafford. JaMarcus Russell, Vince Young, Alex Smith, and Ryan Leaf are players that come to mind when thinking of junior quarterbacks who bolted for the NFL a year early. It's tough for a rookie to come in and play the quarterback position at a high level, while making so many adjustments to the professional game.

Stafford won't be alone in making the jump from junior year of college to the NFL, with Mark Sanchez also set to start for the Jets this year. Which quarterback is set to have the better season, only time will tell. If were talking about success, you have to like Sanchez being on the better team, but for fantasy purposes, Stafford might be the better choice as he has many more weapons at his disposal.


If your into taking risks with high upside, if not later this year, then next year, Stafford might be a serviceable fantasy quarterback.

Never Draft Too Soon

Every single year I like to wait until the week before the season or as close to it as possible to draft. I understand most people are busy and are even involved in multiple leagues, but this is something I always try to do. There's still position battles, and injuries that change drafts completely. So this year, when a good friend of mine asked me for some fantasy advice for his draft about a month ago, it was simple- don't draft this early.

My friend agreed, but said that this is when the rest of the league had planned to do draft and he couldn't change anyone else's minds. To his misfortune he ended up drafting possibly this years biggest dud-Matt Cassel.

Of course the day Cassel gets hurt, I get the call and I go hysterical. To think the one draftee trying to avoid drafting early is the one who took the first big hit of the fantasy seasonso far, was a concept I just couldnt come to grips with. Quickly he scrambled to the waiver wire, and grabbed Shaun Hill for the time being. Hopefully Cassel can get healthy and lead his team, but this is just another lesson to be learned from drafting too soon.

In the spirit of all this, I would like to go over some of the players who have risen and fallen on the draft boards in recent weeks, and remind everyone not to have a draft too soon as we have seen so many things change this pre-season. (See Cassel, Matt and Favre, Brett ->)

Players on the rise:

Ray Rice, Bal RB

Rice has seen his stock rise in recent weeks with the report that he has surpassed both Willis McGahee and Le'Ron McClain on the depth chart. McGahee just doesn't have the burst he use to and McClain has goal line and fullback written all over him. With Rice being the most explosive back in a run first system, Rice is a solid sleeper type back.

Beanie Wells, Ari RB

Arizona doesn't run the ball well. This should come to no surprise however, because they ran the ball a league low 34 percent of the time last year. They need someone to take the reigns, and they didn't draft this Big Ten bruiser in the first round for no reason. He may end up splitting time with Hightower, but it's only a matter or time before he plays himself into the starting job.

Leon Washington, NYJ RB

Thomas Jones has almost 2,000 carries on his legs in the last nine years, and seen his ypc drop off the last three years with the exception of last. The Jets like Leon Washington and say they plan to use him a lot more this year, plus he's their best big play threat. All of this has been happening this past week, and it's been showing with him sneaking into draft days. I see a combo of all three backs, that being Jones, Washington, and Greene

Players on the decline:

Jonathan Stewart, Car RB

Stewart was a surprise to many last year, scoring double digit touchdowns. He wasn't a surprise to many fantasy GM's this off-season until he hurt his Achilles this summer. Now he's falling in a lot of drafts despite saying he'll be ready for the season. With the injuries, there's no wonder he's falling so far.

Antonio Bryant, TB WR

Bryant was another surprise last year to many posting the best season statistically of his career. This year however, he won't have Jeff Garcia throwing to him, and no one is quite sure who will be tossin' the ball, but early reports have Byron Leftwich starting the first game. Also they just fired their offensive coordinator. Perhaps these are reason fantasy GM's are weary.

LenDale White, Ten RB

White has been fallen into the mid to mid-late rounds in every draft I have participated in this season. White has been dealing with weight, and effort issues since he entered the league, and never seems to say the right things. He also splits carries with Chris Johnson, another fantasy force. But, after scoring 15 touchdowns a year ago, we know what he is capable of. This is a guy who can be had later in draft, and still has a lot of value. However drafter beware.

Intro

Hello,

This is Patrick Rafferty and welcome to my blog about fantasy sports.
I have been involved in fantasy as long as I can remember. Fantasy sports are one of my favorite things to do, and it helps keep me sharp in the sporting world.
I figured I should create a blog giving my thoughts on the week and hopefully some valuable insight for my readers. I just want to take this opportunity to explain who I am and why I am choosing to blog about fantasy football.
I grew up on the South side of Chicago and played and watched all sports growing up. I love everything Chicago sports, except for the cubs. I also follow almost all major sports fairly extensively.
I am a journalism major at The University of Iowa, and hope to one day be involved in sports and the media in some way. That has always been what I wanted to do
I will do my best to keep up with this blog, and I look forward to seeing what I can produce for you in the future. Thanks for reading and, check me out again soon,

Patrick Rafferty

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