Alastair's BLE Blog

Alastair

By WILL GRAVES, AP Sports Writer

PITTSBURGH (AP) — Ben Roethlisberger passed for 365 yards and two touchdowns as the Pittsburgh Steelers finally found a way to beat Tom Brady and the New England Patriots 25-17 on Sunday.

Roethlisberger completed 36 of 50 passes and led the Steelers (6-2) on a series of clock-chewing drives, effectively keeping Brady and the NFL's top-ranked offense off the field. Pittsburgh held the ball for more than 39 minutes and survived a late rally to win its fourth straight following a 2-2 start.

Brady passed for two touchdowns but threw for a season-low 198 yards and couldn't get into any sort of rhythm while losing to the Steelers for just the second time in his career.

The Patriots (5-2) drew within six when Brady hit Aaron Hernandez for a 1-yard touchdown pass with 2:35 remaining, but a last-gasp drive ended when Brady was sacked and the ball rolled out of the end zone for a safety with 8 seconds to play.

Game stats

Source: http://www.profootballweekly.com/2011/10/30/big-ben-leads-steelers-over-patriots

St. Louis Rams Oakland Raiders Kansas City Chiefs Ben Graham Patrick Edwards Eugene Sims

Alastair

Buehrle, Wood, Pena head list

Left-hander Mark Buehrle highlights a list of 10 White Sox and Cubs players who filed Sunday for free agency.

Source: http://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/breaking/ct-spt-1031-white-sox-cubs-free-agents--20111031,0,4777003.story?track=rss

San Diego Chargers St. Louis Rams Oakland Raiders Kansas City Chiefs Ben Graham Patrick Edwards

Alastair

Source: http://www.sbnation.com/fantasy/2011/10/31/2524827/jeremy-maclin-fantasy-stats-update-philadelphia-eagles

New York Giants Philadelphia Eagles Washington Redskins New York Jets New England Patriots Denver Broncos

Alastair

Here's how I see the Big 12 bowls shaking out after this weekend.

Iowa State will need an upset of Kansas State, Oklahoma State or Oklahoma and a victory over Kansas to get in, but suddenly, Missouri's hopes look very solid. The Tigers play Kansas still, and need a win over Baylor, Texas or Texas Tech to reach the postseason. Gotta like the Big 12's chances to fill all its bowl slots.

Allstate BCS National Championship Game: Oklahoma State vs. BCS

Tostitos Fiesta Bowl: Oklahoma vs. BCS

AT&T Cotton Bowl: Kansas State�vs. SEC

Valero Alamo Bowl: Texas A&M�vs. Pac-12

Insight Bowl: Texas vs. Big Ten

Bridgepoint Education Holiday Bowl: Baylor vs. Pac-12

Meineke Car Care Bowl of Texas: Texas Tech�vs. Big Ten

New Era Pinstripe Bowl: Missouri vs. Big East

Source: http://espn.go.com/blog/ncfnation/post/_/id/51449/big-12-bowl-projections-week-9-2

Philadelphia Eagles Washington Redskins New York Jets New England Patriots Denver Broncos Arizona Cardinals

Alastair

Source: http://stlouis.sbnation.com/st-louis-blues/2011/10/30/2525978/blues-oilers-final-score-4-2

Philadelphia Eagles Washington Redskins New York Jets New England Patriots Denver Broncos Arizona Cardinals

Alastair

Boise State was idle this weekend but still dropped one spot in the latest BCS standings released Sunday night, falling to No. 5.

Though the Broncos got help when Clemson and Kansas State lost, they really needed Stanford to lose to USC to help clear even more teams from their path to the BCS National Championship Game. The Cardinal rallied to beat the Trojans in triple overtime, and poll voters didn't punish them for their close victory. Stanford leapfrogged Boise State, moving from No. 6 to No. 4.

Boise State still needs every undefeated team ahead of it to lose to have any shot at becoming the first non-AQ to make it to the BCS title game. No. 1�LSU and No. 2 Alabama play Saturday, so one of those teams will have one loss. But of course the question always becomes whether any one-loss team would finish ahead of the Broncos in the final BCS standings.

Addressing that question on the "BCS Countdown" show Sunday night, ESPN BCS guru Brad Edwards said, "I think that's the thing with Boise State is what are their chances of finishing ahead of a one-loss team? Right now there's a pretty big gap between them and that group of teams that have been beat, but if Boise State were to find its way in the top 2 of the polls, you start to see the contenders behind them take shape. You have a definitive team move into that No. 3 spot, whether it's that Alabama/LSU loser or Oklahoma -- they're likely to be ranked ahead of Boise State in the computers, which is going to make it tough for the Broncos to fight that team off."

Boise State has a better computer average than Stanford, but is ranked lower in the coaches' and Harris poll.

There were two other non-AQs featured in the new BCS standings: Undefeated Houston moved up four spots to No. 13 for its highest-ever BCS ranking. Fellow Conference USA school Southern Miss made its first appearance in the BCS standings since 2004, entering at No. 25.

Houston appears to be in a tough spot. Its best shot to make it to a BCS game is to get into the top 12 of the final BCS standings and for Boise State to lose.

Source: http://espn.go.com/blog/ncfnation/post/_/id/51456/boise-state-slips-a-spot-in-bcs-standings

Joshua Cribbs USC Trojans football Colorado Buffaloes Notre Dame Fighting Irish Pittsburgh Panthers Florida State Seminoles

Alastair

Bob Barry Sr., the longtime radio voice of Oklahoma football who was handpicked by Bud Wilkinson, has died.

"Bob Barry represented the best of the Sooner spirit," OU president David Boren said in a statement. "With his contagious enthusiasm, he was one of the best sports broadcast journalists in the entire nation. He was loved by Oklahomans all across our entire state and will be missed by all of us."

The "Voice of the Sooners" from 1961-1972, then from 1991-2010 retired as OU's football and basketball play-by-play man in the spring. Barry also called Oklahoma State games from 1973-1990 before being hired back to OU.

I crossed paths with Barry a few times a week during my time in Oklahoma, and you won't find anyone in this business with less ego, more kindness and a spirit that brightened your day everytime you came across it.

Bob will be missed dearly.

Source: http://espn.go.com/blog/ncfnation/post/_/id/51435/longtime-voice-of-the-sooners-dies

Oakland Raiders Kansas City Chiefs Ben Graham Patrick Edwards Eugene Sims Aldrick Robinson

Alastair

The Steelers downgraded WR Hines Ward (ankle) and ILB James Farrior (calf) from questionable to out on Sunday morning before their Week Eight bame against the Patriots.

Farrior is the team's leading tackler with 45 on the year including two sacks. He also has three passes defensed. Second-year LB Stevenson Sylvester will start for Farrior.

Ward has 26 catches for 258 yards and two scores this season and Emmanuel Sanders will start for him.

The way we see it

In terms of receiving, the Steelers have depth and can plug Sanders right in for Ward, but they lose a solid run blocker in Ward.

On defense, losing Farrior is tough against such a high-octane Patriots offense that loves to use the middle of the field with their tight ends.

Source: http://www.profootballweekly.com/2011/10/30/steelers-downgrade-wr-ward-lb-farrior-to-out

Philadelphia Eagles Washington Redskins New York Jets New England Patriots Denver Broncos Arizona Cardinals

Alastair

Source: http://www.rockytoptalk.com/2011/10/29/2522594/tennessee-volunteers-vs-south-carolina-gamecocks-open-game-thread

Jermelle Cudjo James Farrior Fred Davis Peter Mayer Nate Burleson Otto Graham

Alastair

What did we learn from Week 9 of Pac-12 action?

Stanford can win a brawl: After blowing out 10 consecutive opponents, it was reasonable to wonder how Stanford might handle itself when challenged in a game that was tight in the fourth quarter. Well, the Cardinal emphatically answered that question with a 56-48, triple-overtime win over USC. Quarterback Andrew Luck had to rally the Cardinal in regulation just to force OT after he tossed a fourth-quarter pick-six, but there was plenty of poise to answer the call.

Chris Polk is a beast: We already knew this but it bears repeating. Polk hoisted Washington on his shoulders by scoring five touchdowns in the 42-31 win over Arizona. He also became the first player in Washington history with 100 yards rushing and receiving in a single game. Polk had 34 carries for 144 yards and four touchdowns, and he caught four passes for 100 yards with another score. Up next for Polk is a chance to get some national notice against Oregon.

UCLA and Utah aren't dead yet: Last week, UCLA and Utah suffered humiliating defeats: UCLA to Arizona, Utah to California. Some were writing epitaphs to their seasons. But the Bruins blistered baffling California on Saturday and the Utes dominated Oregon State for their first-ever Pac-12 victory. Both ran the ball and dominated the line of scrimmage. And both have hope if you look at the record and schedule. Both are 4-4 and two wins away from bowl eligibility. The Bruins actually could take control of the South Division with a win against Arizona State on Saturday. Utah is at Arizona with a chance to record its first conference road victory.

Oregon is not, at present, a well-oiled machine: Is Darron Thomas healthy? And, if yes, is he still ahead of Bryan Bennett in Chip Kelly's eyes? And what's with getting outgained at home by Washington State? The Ducks have two big tests coming up: at Washington on Saturday and at Stanford on Nov. 12. They won't have the friendly confines of Autzen Stadium to help work through their issues.

Redemption doesn't always last: Last week, Arizona, Cal and Oregon State each seemed to make a positive statement, one that suggested each was emerging from struggles. While Arizona has an excuse -- playing at Washington with four players suspended; fired head coach -- Cal and Oregon State just looked awful. These three fan bases are used to bowl games. Will any of the three be eligible for one at season's end.

Source: http://espn.go.com/blog/ncfnation/post/_/id/51425/what-we-learned-in-the-pac-12-week-9

San Francisco 49ers Seattle Seahawks San Diego Chargers St. Louis Rams Oakland Raiders Kansas City Chiefs

Alastair

Raiders head coach Hue Jackson made the trade for QB Carson Palmer to improve the team's chances of making the playoffs this season, but according to a team insider, Jackson is fooling himself if he thinks Palmer will make a difference in achieving that goal.

The quarterback looked awful in his first game with the team, throwing three second-half interceptions in a Week Seven loss to the Chiefs, and he admitted afterward that he knew just a small fraction of the playbook. Even with a bye week in which to learn more of the offense, the team will still be limited in the plays it can run with Palmer under center until he has a full grasp of Jackson's system. Without a training camp and extensive practices to work out with his receivers and offensive line, timing and communication are bound to be issues the remainder of the year.

"If Carson is looking good by the end of the year, I'll be stunned," the insider said.

Follow Eli Kaberon on Twitter

Source: http://www.profootballweekly.com/2011/10/29/palmer-unlikely-to-make-a-difference-this-year-for

Nebraska Cornhuskers North Carolina Tar Heels Louisiana Tech Bulldogs Arizona Wildcats Houston Cougars California Golden Bears

Alastair

Source: http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/2011/10/30/2524561/udinese-vs-palermo-lineups-ding-dong-toto-is-back

Clemson Tigers Florida Gators Northwestern Wildcats Wichita State University Nebraska Cornhuskers North Carolina Tar Heels

Alastair

Even after watching Bartlett take a 35-10 lead four minutes into the second quarter, there was an air of confidence on Lyons' sideline.

Source: http://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/breaking/ct-spt-1030-prep-foot-lyons-bartlett-20111029,0,3177840.story?track=rss

San Francisco 49ers Seattle Seahawks San Diego Chargers St. Louis Rams Oakland Raiders Kansas City Chiefs

Alastair

The Colts' ineptitude on offense this season without QB Peyton Manning was, to some degree, expected. The horrific play of the defense was not. Although there are plenty of people responsible for the unit's struggles, we hear defensive coordinator Larry Coyer's future with the club beyond this season is in the most jeopardy.

Indianapolis hit rock bottom in Week Seven, suffering the worst loss in franchise history, a 62-7 throttling courtesy of the Saints. Owner Jim Irsay took to his Twitter account hours after the game, hinting at potential changes.

"Titanic collapse,apologies 2 all ColtsNation..problems identifiable;solutions in progress but complex in nature/ better days will rise again," Irsay tweeted.

The way we hear it, changes during the season are unlikely. Head coach Jim Caldwell has come under fire, but the effort and improvement his team shows over the last nine weeks could go a long way toward deciding his future with the club. Further, vice chairman Bill Polian has continued to praise Caldwell's performance under difficult circumstances. Polian hasn't given Coyer, who appeared shell-shocked after his unit's shockingly bad Week Seven effort, the same vote of confidence, saying on his weekly radio show he has no answers to fix the defense.

We hear the problems are widespread, with Polian admitting he has done a poor job replenishing certain positions, namely cornerback and defensive tackle. But for a "D" built on speed and tempo, the Colts have been stuck in quicksand this season. Even worse, we hear the effort has been lackluster at times.

When Coyer was hired to take over the defense in 2009, the belief was that he would be more aggressive with the unit, concocting more pressure and featuring different looks. Simply put, that has not been the case. While he has been handcuffed because of injuries, Coyer's defense has remained, for the most part, very vanilla. When blitzes are dialed up, they rarely reach home. The secondary's play, while certainly not all Coyer's fault, has been atrocious. The cornerbacks have given too much cushion, lacking field awareness and urgency.

The Colts' Tampa-2 scheme has also been badly exposed this season, and word is Coyer has done a poor job adapting to how opponents are attacking the system.

Source: http://www.profootballweekly.com/2011/10/29/colts-defensive-coordinator-coyer-on-thin-ice

Northwestern Wildcats Wichita State University Nebraska Cornhuskers North Carolina Tar Heels Louisiana Tech Bulldogs Arizona Wildcats

Alastair

The Colts' ineptitude on offense this season without QB Peyton Manning was, to some degree, expected. The horrific play of the defense was not. Although there are plenty of people responsible for the unit's struggles, we hear defensive coordinator Larry Coyer's future with the club beyond this season is in the most jeopardy.

Indianapolis hit rock bottom in Week Seven, suffering the worst loss in franchise history, a 62-7 throttling courtesy of the Saints. Owner Jim Irsay took to his Twitter account hours after the game, hinting at potential changes.

"Titanic collapse,apologies 2 all ColtsNation..problems identifiable;solutions in progress but complex in nature/ better days will rise again," Irsay tweeted.

The way we hear it, changes during the season are unlikely. Head coach Jim Caldwell has come under fire, but the effort and improvement his team shows over the last nine weeks could go a long way toward deciding his future with the club. Further, vice chairman Bill Polian has continued to praise Caldwell's performance under difficult circumstances. Polian hasn't given Coyer, who appeared shell-shocked after his unit's shockingly bad Week Seven effort, the same vote of confidence, saying on his weekly radio show he has no answers to fix the defense.

We hear the problems are widespread, with Polian admitting he has done a poor job replenishing certain positions, namely cornerback and defensive tackle. But for a "D" built on speed and tempo, the Colts have been stuck in quicksand this season. Even worse, we hear the effort has been lackluster at times.

When Coyer was hired to take over the defense in 2009, the belief was that he would be more aggressive with the unit, concocting more pressure and featuring different looks. Simply put, that has not been the case. While he has been handcuffed because of injuries, Coyer's defense has remained, for the most part, very vanilla. When blitzes are dialed up, they rarely reach home. The secondary's play, while certainly not all Coyer's fault, has been atrocious. The cornerbacks have given too much cushion, lacking field awareness and urgency.

The Colts' Tampa-2 scheme has also been badly exposed this season, and word is Coyer has done a poor job adapting to how opponents are attacking the system.

Source: http://www.profootballweekly.com/2011/10/29/colts-defensive-coordinator-coyer-on-thin-ice

Joshua Cribbs USC Trojans football Colorado Buffaloes Notre Dame Fighting Irish Pittsburgh Panthers Florida State Seminoles

Alastair

Don't forget to check out Pro Football Weekly's rankings as they're proven to be the best in the industry. At PFW, we don't just take the NFL seriously; we take fantasy just as seriously. As much as you want insight, the truth is, every service, every expert, every "wannabe" fantasy analyst checks the rankings to start. When you're in a jam, head to our player rankings section for that quick answer, especially on Sunday mornings.

Every week you see fantasy owners focusing on specific matchups or players. This week it seems as if Chargers QB Philip Rivers is the focal point of a lot of questions. He is struggling, so you're right to question him. Just make sure you have a viable backup who can effectively replace him.

Week Eight brings the following teams on byes: Falcons, Bears, Packers, Jets, Raiders and Buccaneers. That means you lose RBs Michael Turner and Matt Forté; WRs Greg Jennings, Santonio Holmes and Darrius Heyward-Bey; and TE Jermichael Finley.

You can reach me via:

- Twitter: @wdelpilar

- Email: fantasydoctor@pfwmedia.com

- Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/#!/ProFootballWeekly

Should I drop Reggie Wayne for David Nelson?

— Jayson via email

No, I wouldn't do it. Wayne has Curtis Painter, who is still learning the ropes and theoretically should improve as he's only been starting for a few weeks.

Would you trade Beanie Wells for Chris Johnson straight up?

— Fondie18 via email

That's a tough question. An injury-prone player for an underperforming one who came to camp not ready to play and now that he has his big, fat, juicy contract, his work ethic may not be there. I don't know if it is or not, and because of that, I'll say make the trade. Wells just can't stay healthy, and CJ2K at least is providing about 75 offensive yards per game.

Once again I am stuck with my lineup. I am in a PPR league and most weeks I fare well but this week I have Matt Forté and Jordy Nelson going on a bye. I also have Fred Davis starting at TE with Vernon Davis on my bench. Do you think I should put Jonathan Stewart in to fill my RB spot and David Nelson in as my flex or is it time to pull Reggie Wayne out of my lineup for David Nelson and put Vernon at the flex?

— Cody via email

Keep Wayne in your lineup this week as he has a favorable matchup, more so than Nelson. I would get V. Davis in the flex. I don't know what other options you have at the back position, so I would say to put Stewart in there if he's your best bet.

I am having two different issues with my QB in the fantasy league I am in: (1) Who should I start, Vick or Roethlisberger? (2) Should I trade either one?

— Peter via email

For question one, I will say to go with Vick by a hair as his legs always make the difference. This week Big Ben is likely the safer pick as he has a better matchup. I love Vick's upside, so I say Vick. On question two, I would look to move Vick for a blockbuster deal to shore up one-to-two weak spots you may have. I'm not sure Vick will make it through the season.

I have 4 RBs I want to start with only slots available on my team. Pick 3 of the 4 — Chris Johnson, Fred Jackson, Ahmad Bradshaw, DeMarco Murray. I love all of their matchups this week. Jackson is a definite, and normally so is Johnson, especially against Indy's D, but the way he's been playing all year scares me ... little Halloween reference for you. Anyway, thanks. Love the column.

— Bobby via email

Bobby, keep your day job... ;). To answer your question: Great choices and to be honest, it may come back to haunt you (Halloween pun), but why not go for broke with Murray? I say that, but the Eagles have had time to prepare for him, and the Rams were woeful. Because CJ2K is averaging 75 offensive yards per game, you should stick with him for one more week. Try to trade Murray while he's hot because he's not as good as his numbers.

Who should I trade, Jason Witten or Aaron Hernandez?

— Daniel via email

I would trade Witten. Witten will bring you greater value as a selling point. He's QB Tony Romo's favorite receiver and is not sharing the role with anyone and is consistent. You'll get more in return, but in the end I move the one I get the greatest value for. Every owner is different; investigate both players' values in your league.

Who should I start this week? Eli Manning or Tim Tebow? Touchdowns are worth six pts.

— Ryan via email

This one's easy; go with Manning as I like his matchup. From Weeks Two through Five, he had 11 TDs, an average of 2.8 per game. The fact TDs are worth six points nullifies some of Tebow's value, because in most leagues, TD passes are four points for quarterbacks.

I have Aaron Rodgers on a bye. Who would make a better fill-in? Ponder, Painter, Beck, Kolb, Moore, or Jackson?

— Mike via email

Ponder's too green and raw, Kolb's facing the Ravens and T-Jax may not play. That leaves Painter, Beck and Moore as your options and from there, I like Painter's matchup against the Titans, who have fallen back to earth after a great start.

RB Jackie Battle, Daniel Thomas, or WR Brandon Lloyd? Thanks for your time. I appreciate it.

— Lewis via email

I like Daniel Thomas and his matchup, but he's not 100 percent, so go with Battle. Let's see Lloyd produce with QB A.J. Feeley before risking using someone who won't see the ball as much as Battle.

I have Andre Johnson, Percy Harvin, Antonio Brown and Nate Washington available for this week; which three should I go with? Or option to pick up Jabar Gaffney and drop one. Thanks.

— Kevin via email

Andre Johnson is not going to play and Percy Harvin (ribs) is not yet ready to go, though the latter hasn't been ruled out. I don't expect to see either play, and if Harvin does, it's unlikely he'll be effective. Antonio Brown has a great matchup this week, as does Nate Washington. I like Jabar Gaffney as a No. 3 or flex receiver but not at the cost of dropping anyone you have right now. If forced, I'd drop Harvin if I knew I could get him back, but if not, you may have to eat that position.

Source: http://www.profootballweekly.com/2011/10/29/del-pilars-mailbag-saturday-edition-8

Patrick Edwards Eugene Sims Aldrick Robinson Tory Collins Brandon McRae Jermelle Cudjo

Alastair

Source: http://stlouis.sbnation.com/st-louis-rams/2011/10/29/2523358/marquis-johnson-set-to-make-season-debut-against-saints

Bobby Mitchell Paul Warfield Mike McCormack Frank Gatski Ozzie Newsome Joe DeLamielleure

Alastair

Source: http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/2011/10/29/2524058/real-salt-lake-vs-seattle-sounders-live-mls-cup-playoffs-2011-live-score-update

New Orleans Saints Tampa Bay Buccaneers Tennessee Titans Buffalo Bills Dallas Cowboys Miami Dolphins

Alastair

MINNEAPOLIS -- Minnesota coach Jerry Kill needed to keep his worn-down defense off the field a little longer if the Gophers were going to come back and complete the upset of Iowa.

Source: http://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/breaking/chi-late-td-run-gives-minnesota-2221-win-vs-iowa-20111029,0,7510794.story?track=rss

Wichita State University Nebraska Cornhuskers North Carolina Tar Heels Louisiana Tech Bulldogs Arizona Wildcats Houston Cougars

Alastair

Source: http://www.bleedinggreennation.com/2011/10/28/2522254/saw-this-guy-at-the-giants-game-a-month-ago-funny-as-hell

Pittsburgh Panthers Florida State Seminoles Miami Hurricanes Georgia Bulldogs Texas A&M Aggies Arkansas Razorbacks

Alastair

The Cowboys waived RB Tashard Choice on Saturday to make room on the 53-man roster for rookie OLB Bruce Carter, who has been on the non-football injury list.

Choice was rumored to be on the cutting block earlier this season after the team drafted RB DeMarco Murray. Choice has one start in six games this season and has rushed for 75 yards on 28 carries (2.7-yard average).

Choice played in all 16 games each of the last three seasons. He had 472 rushing yards in 2008. Murray rushed for a franchise-record 253 yards last week.

According to ESPN Dallas, if Choice clears waivers, the team will reach an injury settlement with him. Choice suffered a shoulder injury in last week's win over the Rams.

RB Felix Jones remains out with an ankle injury, leaving the Cowboys with Murray and rookie Phillip Tanner in the backfield for Sunday night's game against the Eagles.

Carter suffered a season-ending knee injury last November during his senior season with North Carolina. He is expected to see some time on special teams and at inside linebacker.

Source: http://www.profootballweekly.com/2011/10/29/cowboys-waive-rb-choice

St. Louis Rams Oakland Raiders Kansas City Chiefs Ben Graham Patrick Edwards Eugene Sims

Alastair

Here's a key matchup to watch in Sunday's Vikings-Panthers game.

Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe vs. Panthers LBs

Shiancoe has come out of a mini-slump the past two games, making nine catches for 90 yards and a touchdown after having only eight catches combined in the three games before that. Just as important, Christian Ponder targeted him eight times, proving that he is a focal part of the passing game with the struggles the wide receivers have had.

That trend will need to continue this week against the Panthers. The Panthers defense has struggled covering opposing tight ends, allowing them to average 69.3 receiving yards per game. With the injuries to their two best linebackers, Jon Beason and Thomas Davis, the Panthers have struggled to cover tight ends in space. Replacements Dan Connor and Jason Williams lack the athleticism to keep up.

Establishing Adrian Peterson in the running game will open up the holes in the middle of the field and allow Shiancoe to be isolated with linebackers like Connor in space. If the Vikings gets those kinds of matchups, they need try and exploit them. Shiancoe has proven over the last two games that he can be a weapon in the passing game. Ponder should look his way early and often.

Source: http://www.profootballweekly.com/2011/10/28/vikings-panthers-matchup-of-the-day-saturday

Nate Burleson Otto Graham Paul Brown Marion Motley Jim Brown Lou Groza

Alastair

Coming into the season, the Buffalo Bills were not sure�of their starting quarterback beyond the 2011 season.

But on Friday, Buffalo officially made its decision. The Bills signed quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick to a six-year extension worth $59 million, ESPN's Chris Mortensen reports. The contract guarantees Fitzpatrick $24 million.

Fitzpatrick is off to a good start for the surprising Bills (4-2). He has thrown for 1,477 yards, 12 touchdowns and six interceptions. That was enough to convince Buffalo's front office to make Fitzpatrick, 28,�its long-term solution. The Bills had to make a decision before the end of the season.�Fitzpatrick was due to become a free agent next year.

Fitzpatrick is worth more to the Bills than any other team. He fits Buffalo's spread offense well and has become a leader in the locker room. I like this signing for all those reasons.

But�Buffalo also made a huge financial investment in Fitzpatrick, who�remains somewhat unproven.�He�has never thrown for more than 3,000 yards.

The contract now�puts Fitzpatrick�in the second tier of quarterbacks, under eilte players like Tom Brady and Peyton Manning. Fitzpatrick will average nearly $10 million per season. There is pressure that comes with that.

Other quarterbacks, such as Kevin Kolb of the Arizona Cardinals and Matt Cassel of the Kansas City Chiefs, recently received similar deals. I would take Fitzpatrick over both of those players.

So far, Kolb and Cassel are proving they're not worth their approximate $10 million-per-year salaries. It will be up to Fitzpatrick to prove to the Bills he�won't�follow in those footsteps.

Source: http://espn.go.com/blog/afceast/post/_/id/33426/fitz-has-to-prove-hes-not-kolb-or-cassel

Alabama Crimson Tide Clemson Tigers Florida Gators Northwestern Wildcats Wichita State University Nebraska Cornhuskers

Alastair

After weeks of negotiations, the Bills and QB Ryan Fitzpatrick finally have agreed on a contract extension. According to ESPN's Chris Mortensen, the two sides will sign a six-year, $59 million contract, with $24 million guaranteed.

Fitzpatrick, a former seventh-round pick, has found success in Buffalo under head coach Chan Gailey. Over the past two seasons, he has started 19 games and thrown 35 touchdown passes. This season, he has the Bills in contention for a playoff spot.

With Fitzpatrick now signed, the Bills can turn their attention to two other offensive stars. WR Stevie Johnson and RB Fred Jackson, both key parts to the Buffalo attack, are also looking for new deals. It is expected Johnson's deal will come first.

The $9.8 million per-season average of the contract does not make Fitzpatrick one of the league's best-paid QBs along the lines of Tom Brady and Peyton Manning, but is fairly close to the deals signed by Matt Schaub, Jay Cutler and Tony Romo.

Source: http://www.profootballweekly.com/2011/10/28/report-fitzpatrick-agrees-to-new-deal-with-bills

Nate Burleson Otto Graham Paul Brown Marion Motley Jim Brown Lou Groza

Alastair

They came back from the dead more than Freddy Krueger, these Cardinals.

Source: http://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/breaking/chi-cardinals-take-world-series-with-62-win-20111028,0,5602402.story?track=rss

New York Giants Philadelphia Eagles Washington Redskins New York Jets New England Patriots Denver Broncos

Alastair

Source: http://www.bleedinggreennation.com/2011/10/28/2520451/eagles-homefield-disadvantage

Notre Dame Fighting Irish Pittsburgh Panthers Florida State Seminoles Miami Hurricanes Georgia Bulldogs Texas A&M Aggies

Alastair

The Miami Dolphins' coaching search for 2012 is officially underway, according to an NFL.com report.

Cowher

Albert Breer of the NFL Network reports Miami owner Stephen Ross contacted Bill Cowher's representation regarding the Dolphins' head-coaching job. Cowher, in response, said he won't discuss any job that is currently occupied. Tony Sparano is coaching the Dolphins, who are off to an 0-6 start.

There are a lot of ways to look at this development. Here are some thoughts:

Although it's no secret Sparano will get fired soon, this report still looks bad�on Miami's ownership. Ross has shown little professional respect for Sparano this past year. He flirted with Jim Harbaugh during the offseason with Sparano still under contract. Now, Ross reportedly is trying to do it again with Cowher. If the report is accurate, this would show Ross hasn't learned his lesson from the Harbaugh fiasco. Ross has deep pockets and may not care. But other coaching candidates are paying attention to how Ross treats one of their peers.
Cowher's assertion that he reportedly won't talk to teams with a head coach could expedite Sparano's firing. Cowher most likely would listen to Miami's overtures if an interim coach is in place. Technically, the job would be open. Many have wondered why Ross is holding onto Sparano�for this long�when it's clear change is coming. It makes even less sense if Ross has already made up his mind that he wants a new coach, as this report suggests.
With all that said, I like that Cowher is reportedly at the top of Ross' wish list. In my opinion, Ross should be thinking Cowher or bust in 2012. The Dolphins need to make a splash in this coaching search. Fans in Miami have given up on this organization and it is showing in the stands. That hurts Ross' bottom line. A big-time coach like Cowher -- and perhaps some good fortune to draft Stanford quarterback Andrew Luck -- would put Miami back on the right track.

Source: http://espn.go.com/blog/afceast/post/_/id/33454/report-dolphins-contacted-cowher-reps

Nebraska Cornhuskers North Carolina Tar Heels Louisiana Tech Bulldogs Arizona Wildcats Houston Cougars California Golden Bears

Alastair

Here are five nuggets of knowledge about Week 8:

Chasing history: New England Patriots coach Bill Belichick and starting quarterback Tom Brady can make NFL history Sunday. With a win against the Pittsburgh Steelers, Brady and Belichick will set a record for the most regular-season wins for a quarterback-head coach duo in the Super Bowl era. The Patriots' pair is tied with former Miami Dolphins quarterback Dan Marino and former coach Don Shula with 116 victories.

Bye-week blues: But don't book that win for New England yet. The Patriots and Buffalo Bills could be primed for upsets. According to the Elias Sports Bureau, teams coming off the bye are an abysmal 3-9 (.250 winning percentage) this season. That is a significant turnaround from the 20-12 (.625) mark in 2010. Although there is no clear explanation, the lengthy NFL lockout might have something to do with it. Practice reps are important, especially during the first half of the season. Most teams practice a little, then take several days off during the bye. That has led to some sloppy play for teams following the bye. But the good news for New England is that Belichick has won eight consecutive games after byes.

Fitz factor: It is no coincidence the Bills have lost two of their past three games at the same time starting quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick has cooled off. Fitzpatrick threw for 841 yards and nine touchdowns during Buffalo's 3-0 start. He was an early MVP candidate. But Fitzpatrick has thrown for 636 yards, three touchdowns and three interceptions in his past three games. Fitzpatrick is known to be streaky. He's living up to that reputation so far this season. Buffalo needs Fitzpatrick to be consistently good the rest of the season to make the playoffs.

Miami's pass rush a fluke? Here is a key question for the Dolphins: Was Tim Tebow that bad, or is Miami's pass rush suddenly that good? Winless Miami had just eight sacks in its first five games. But the Dolphins exploded against Tebow and the Denver Broncos with six sacks last week. Tebow struggled mightily for 55 minutes until making a stunning comeback from 15 points down. Too often Tebow failed to recognize blitzes and held the ball too long in his first start of the season. Miami is a big underdog against the New York Giants. But if the Dolphins can get to Giants quarterback Eli Manning with the same proficiency, maybe they have a chance for the upset.

Get some rest: The next month for the New York Jets could be the biggest stretch of their season. New York plays three division games in that span, which includes a home game against the division-leading Patriots and two contests against the Bills. The two Buffalo games could have a lot of say in the AFC wild-card race. It's rare that three teams get in from the same division. So, New York and Buffalo have to treat these meetings in November as elimination games.

Source: http://espn.go.com/blog/afceast/post/_/id/33380/final-word-afc-east-40

Paul Brown Marion Motley Jim Brown Lou Groza Dante Lavelli Len Ford

Alastair

Source: http://www.stampedeblue.com/2011/10/25/2512970/how-appropriate-is-the-well-this-is-embarrassing-geico-add

Tampa Bay Buccaneers Tennessee Titans Buffalo Bills Dallas Cowboys Miami Dolphins New York Giants

Alastair

Source: http://stlouis.sbnation.com/st-louis-cardinals/2011/10/28/2522194/rangers-vs-cardinals-score-update

Green Bay Packers Minnesota Vikings Houston Texans Atlanta Falcons Carolina Panthers Indianapolis Colts

Alastair

The last time the Chargers didn't like the play of a former first-round cornerback, they traded Antonio Cromartie to the Jets. While it doesn't seem like the team will go to those extremes with RCB Antoine Cason quite yet, we hear there is a strong chance the fourth-year pro will lose his starting job because of a lack of production.

Cason was beaten for three touchdowns in Week Seven by Jets WR Plaxico Burress and has been struggling all season long in jamming opposing receivers at the line of scrimmage. Though the issues are seen as fixable, the team is very high on second-round rookie Marcus Gilchrist and could move him into the starting lineup in Cason's place. Cason then would become the nickel corner. Gilchrist, a former safety, is a more physical player and could be a better fit against strong receivers outside.

Follow Eli Kaberon on Twitter

Source: http://www.profootballweekly.com/2011/10/28/casons-struggles-could-lead-to-benching

Kansas City Chiefs Ben Graham Patrick Edwards Eugene Sims Aldrick Robinson Tory Collins

Alastair

Here are some of the Vikings' fantasy football options this week:

QB Christian Ponder had a respectable showing for his first game out, completing 13-of-32 passes for 219 yards, two TDs and two interceptions. However, he only belongs on dynasty league rosters.

RB Adrian Peterson (knee) has been limited in practice, but says he can carry the load. The Panthers are allowing 179 offensive yards and two TDs per game to opposing backs over the last four contests.

Vikings WR Percy Harvin aggravated his ribs and has not been cleared to play. Watch for weekend updates.

WR Michael Jenkins had a great game against the Packers, catching 3-111-1 on eight targets and leads or is tied for the team lead in targets, yards and TDs. He's a bye-week play in larger leagues.

TE Visanthe Shiancoe had 4-45-1 receiving with eight targets and was a focal point for Ponder vs. Green Bay. See how well he and the rookie develop chemistry.

Source: http://www.profootballweekly.com/2011/10/28/vikings-fantasy-report-week-eight

Northwestern Wildcats Wichita State University Nebraska Cornhuskers North Carolina Tar Heels Louisiana Tech Bulldogs Arizona Wildcats

Alastair

Source: http://stlouis.sbnation.com/st-louis-rams/2011/10/27/2519100/sam-bradford-injury-update-rams-qb-officially-misses-practice-doubtful

USC Trojans football Colorado Buffaloes Notre Dame Fighting Irish Pittsburgh Panthers Florida State Seminoles Miami Hurricanes

Alastair

The Buccaneers signed S Tanard Jackson to a one-year contract extension on Thursday. His agent Peter Schaffer confirmed the new contract on Twitter.

Jackson has an interception in each of his first two games this season coming off a year long suspension for repeated violations of the league's substance-abuse policy.

Jackson will reportedly earn $2 million in base salary in 2012. He has six tackles as well in his two starts this season.

Source: http://www.profootballweekly.com/2011/10/27/bucs-give-fs-jackson-one-year-extension

Ozzie Newsome Joe DeLamielleure Gene Hickerson Joshua Cribbs USC Trojans football Colorado Buffaloes

Alastair

Source: http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/2011/10/28/2520508/nfl-picks-week-8-miami-dolphins

Peter Mayer Nate Burleson Otto Graham Paul Brown Marion Motley Jim Brown

Alastair

Source: http://www.sbnation.com/nba/2011/10/28/2520502/jordan-crawford-michael-jordan-realistic-goal

Chicago Bears Detroit Lions Green Bay Packers Minnesota Vikings Houston Texans Atlanta Falcons

Alastair

Source: http://stlouis.sbnation.com/st-louis-cardinals/2011/10/27/2520009/cardinals-vs-rangers-score-david-freese

Fred Davis Peter Mayer Nate Burleson Otto Graham Paul Brown Marion Motley

Alastair

FS Nate Allen has been one of the Eagles' bright spots on defense this season, and he thinks the team's bye came at the right time. They headed in with a much-needed victory, but for the defense, the performance answered a lot of the questions that were plaguing the group through the four-game losing streak.

Allen now says the team can build off the positive game, the extra week during the bye and more continuity to become the group that everyone expected the defense to be.

"Things are settling down for us, and we are coming together as a defense," Allen told PFW. "Things are more comfortable now with me and Kurt (Coleman) back there at safety, playing together. It gives us a little more familiarity. And everyone else seems to be settling in to their positions, too. It makes it a lot easier to improve."

Coleman and Allen combined for four interceptions in their first game starting together this season, in Week Six, after Jarrad Page had started ahead of Allen the first three games. This should steady the safety play, which was uneven to start the season.

There's still a concern about the coverages the Eagles can play, and play effectively. When asked if the Eagles were a base cover-2 team, Allen said: "I don't know. We mix it up. We have a lot of things in our scheme."

The team has one of the best press-man corners in the NFL in Nnamdi Asomugha, but he struggled badly to start the season in zone and off-man coverages and has only started to come around the past two contests.

But Allen refused to blame coordinator Juan Castillo's scheme for any of the early-season troubles.

"The pieces are being used the right way. The coaches are putting us in the right spots to make plays," Allen said. "We're working to make those plays more consistently now. We're perfecting the scheme."

Allen said he paid no attention to CB Asante Samuel's disappointment over being trade bait at one point and said that "Asante knows how to take care of his business."

The question now is whether this talented but flawed Eagles defense can do the same on the field.

Source: http://www.profootballweekly.com/2011/10/27/allen-eagles-continuity-will-make-them-better

Northwestern Wildcats Wichita State University Nebraska Cornhuskers North Carolina Tar Heels Louisiana Tech Bulldogs Arizona Wildcats

Alastair

Source: http://www.bleedinggreennation.com/2011/10/26/2516756/eagles-vs-cowboys-jamar-chaney-scouts-demarco-murray

Houston Cougars California Golden Bears Texas Longhorns Baltimore Ravens Cincinnati Bengals Cleveland Browns

Alastair

The one benefit to Dolphins WR Brandon Marshall of having Matt Moore at quarterback is Moore's willingness to throw the deep ball. We saw in Week Six against the Jets how fearless Moore is, repeatedly targeting Marshall, even with Darrelle Revis on him. Marshall has 12 catches for 170 yards in two games with Moore at quarterback, and he should have an edge over whichever Giants corner is covering him on Sunday. However, the Giants' front four is expected to put a lot of pressure on Moore, which will make it difficult for him to get Marshall the ball. Marshall will get the targets, but he might not be able to get many deep balls on Sunday. Marshall makes a No. 2 fantasy receiver with upside because of the high number of targets.

The Bills face a Redskins defense that hasn't been playing well in recent weeks, and Buffalo is coming off a bye. The Redskins are allowing 161 receiving yards to opposing wide receivers per game over the last three. That bye gave RB C.J. Spiller time to learn his role as a receiver, and with Fred Jackson playing so well as the featured back, he's been knocked from the backfield. He caught all five balls targeted at him in the team's last game, for 39 yards, and the Bills will continue to get him involved. He isn't worthy of a start, but watch how he does against Washington, as he may be worthy of a flex spot down the line.

After promising starts to the season, Lions WR Nate Burleson and Titus Young have tailed off. They were targeted a combined six times in Week Seven, with Young catching no passes and Burleson's lone reception going for one yard. Their productivity has declined for several weeks. If looking for bye-week fill-ins, you might want to look elsewhere. Burleson, a starter, is preferable to Young, a reserve, if you have to make a choice between the two. The Broncos, this week's opponent, are allowing 207.7 yards and 1.7 TDs per game to the position over their last three, so there is upside here if you're forced to go that route.

Steelers WR Hines Ward (ankle) missed practice on Wednesday. If you need him on Sunday, make sure to monitor his progress throughout the week. If Ward doesn't play, WRs Antonio Brown and Emmanuel Sanders could get more opportunities vs. New England on Sunday. Brown (7-102-0 in Week Seven at Arizona) is already a key part of the offense, and Sanders (5-46-1, season-high seven targets in Week Seven) had nine targets and a TD vs. the Patriots last season. The Patriots are allowing 170.7 receiving yards and one TD per game to the position over their last three. Brown makes a No. 2 fantasy receiver this week and Sanders a bye-week or injury fill-in.

Bengals WR Jerome Simpson caught six passes for 101 yards in Week Six vs. Indianapolis, and he was targeted nine times. Simpson was targeted nine times apiece in the first two games before seeing only 14 passes come his way in Weeks Three through Five. If he has become an option in the passing game, he'll be a player to consider adding. His opponent, Seattle, is allowing 180.7 yards and 0.7 TDs per game over their last three to the WR position. That makes Simpson a No. 3 fantasy receiver this week but better-suited as a flex or bye-week fill-in.

Texans WR Andre Johnson returned to practice Wednesday after missing the previous three weeks with a hamstring injury. It's a great sign that Houston has its best wideout back on the practice field, but it's unlikely he'll return this week against the Jaguars. Johnson said he was excited to be back practicing with his teammates, but if he felt on Sunday the way he did on Wednesday, he wouldn't play. In Johnson's absence, Kevin Walter has been the club's most consistent wideout, averaging 4.7 receptions for 44.3 receiving yards and 0.3 TDs each week — not the production that will set the fantasy world on fire. However, with a trip to Nashville, where the Titans' defense is reeling after consecutive blowout losses, allowing 143.7 yards and one TD per game to opposing wideouts over the last three, Walter is not a terrible bye-week or injury fill-in.

Stranded on Revis Island last Sunday against the Jets, Chargers WR Vincent Jackson (1-15-0) did not have the impact fantasy owners (or the Chargers) were hoping for. The matchup this week is more favorable, though the man guarding Jackson — Chiefs CB Brandon Flowers — is the reigning AFC Defensive Player of the Week. Flowers lacks the size and strength to slow down the Bolts' wideout in the same way that Revis did. For the season, Jackson is averaging more than 17 yards per reception, while the Chiefs are allowing 151.7 yards and 1.3 TDs per game. Jackson makes a No. 1 fantasy receiver this week.

Source: http://www.profootballweekly.com/2011/10/27/week-eight-fantasy-tips-wrs-3

Minnesota Vikings Houston Texans Atlanta Falcons Carolina Panthers Indianapolis Colts Jacksonville Jaguars

Alastair

Source: http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/2011/10/27/2519763/rapids-vs-crew-live-2011-mls-cup-playoffs-lineups

Tory Collins Brandon McRae Jermelle Cudjo James Farrior Fred Davis Peter Mayer

Alastair

Source: http://stlouis.sbnation.com/st-louis-cardinals/2011/10/27/2519238/world-series-2011-game-6-st-louis-cardinals-lineup-has-lance-berkman

Arizona Cardinals Kansas City Chiefs San Francisco 49ers Seattle Seahawks San Diego Chargers St. Louis Rams

Alastair

Updated Oct. 27, 2011 @ 9:27 a.m. ET

Byes: Falcons, Bears, Packers, Jets, Raiders, Buccaneers

Here are our fantasy rankings for running backs:

Arian Foster, Texans vs. Jaguars
Fred Jackson, Bills vs. Redskins
Adrian Peterson, Vikings at Panthers — INJ, DOWN
Ray Rice, Ravens vs. Cardinals
Frank Gore, 49ers vs. Browns
LeSean McCoy, Eagles vs. Cowboys
Ahmad Bradshaw, Giants vs. Dolphins
DeMarco Murray, Cowboys at Eagles
Ryan Mathews, Chargers at Chiefs
Darren Sproles, Saints at Rams
Chris Johnson, Titans vs. Colts
Maurice Jones-Drew, Jaguars at Texans
Steven Jackson, Rams vs. Saints
Rashard Mendenhall, Steelers vs. Patriots
Knowshon Moreno, Broncos vs. Lions
Pierre Thomas, Saints at Rams
Ryan Torain, Redskins at Bills
Delone Carter, Colts at Titans
Jonathan Stewart, Panthers vs. Vikings
Mike Tolbert, Chargers at Chiefs — INJ
Bernard Scott, Bengals at Seahawks
Marshawn Lynch, Seahawks vs. Bengals — INJ, UP
DeAngelo Williams, Panthers vs. Vikings
Peyton Hillis, Browns at 49ers — INJ, UP
Maurice Morris, Lions at Broncos
Jackie Battle, Chiefs vs. Chargers
Daniel Thomas, Dolphins at Giants — INJ, DOWN
Ben Tate, Texans vs. Jaguars
BenJarvus Green-Ellis, Patriots at Steelers
Javon Ringer, Titans vs. Colts
Brandon Jacobs, Giants vs. Dolphins — INJ
Roy Helu, Redskins at Bills
Phillip Tanner, Cowboys at Eagles
Alfonso Smith, Cardinals at Ravens
Montario Hardesty, Browns at 49ers — DOWN
Reggie Bush, Dolphins at Giants
Donald Brown, Colts at Titans
Lance Ball, Broncos vs. Lions
Keiland Williams, Lions at Broncos
Kendall Hunter, 49ers vs. Browns
Ricky Williams, Ravens vs. Cardinals
C.J. Spiller, Bills vs. Redskins
Stevan Ridley, Patriots at Steelers
Isaac Redman, Steelers vs. Patriots
Thomas Jones, Chiefs vs. Chargers
Dexter McCluster, Chiefs vs. Chargers
Danny Woodhead, Patriots at Steelers
Leon Washington, Seahawks vs. Bengals — DOWN
Brian Leonard, Bengals at Seahawks
Cadillac Williams, Rams vs. Saints
Dion Lewis, Eagles vs. Cowboys
LaRod Stephens-Howling, Cardinals at Ravens
Deji Karim, Jaguars at Texans
Toby Gerhart, Vikings at Panthers
Justin Forsett, Seahawks vs. Bengals — DOWN
Mewelde Moore, Steelers vs. Patriots
Chris Ogbannaya, Browns at 49ers — DOWN
Chester Taylor, Cardinals at Ravens
Chris Ivory, Saints at Rams
Cedric Peerman, Bengals at Seahawks
Jamie Harper, Titans vs. Colts
Ronnie Brown, Eagles vs. Cowboys
Beanie Wells, Cardinals at Ravens — INJ
Mark Ingram, Saints at Rams — INJ
Joseph Addai, Colts at Titans — INJ
Tashard Choice, Cowboys at Eagles — INJ

Not listed: Cedric Benson, Bengals (suspension); Jahvid Best, Lions; Tim Hightower, Redskins (I.R.); Felix Jones, Cowboys; Willis McGahee, Broncos

The above player rankings are based on expectations for this week only, not for the entire season, taking into account this week's specific matchups and injuries. The initial rankings are compiled before the release of the NFL's early injury report and are updated Thursday to reflect the status of each player.

We base our rankings on the following scoring system: For skill-position players, one point for every 10 rushing/receiving yards, one point for every 30 passing yards, six points for a TD run or catch, four points for a TD pass, two points for a two-point conversion run or catch, two points for a two-point conversion pass. For kickers, three points for FGs of 18-39 yards, four points for FGs of 40-49 yards, and five points for FGs of 50-plus yards. Defensive rankings are based primarily on points allowed, yardage allowed and sack potential.

Glossary of notations

INJ — player has an injury that may affect productivity or availability.
ILL — player has an illness that may affect productivity or availability.
UP — player was moved up on draft board after original posting.
DOWN — player was moved down on draft board after original posting.
Not listed — player is temporarily sidelined due to injury or suspension but otherwise would be ranked.
ACTIVE — on game day, player has been designated active (posted shortly before kickoff, when available).
INACTIVE — on game day, player has been designated inactive (posted shortly before kickoff, when available).

Players and/or notations added after the original posting are shown in boldface.

Note: Remember to check back for late-week and weekend updates, as well as game inactives (when available) in the 90 minutes preceding the 1 p.m. Sunday kickoffs. You'll also find regular updates in our live fantasy injury reports on Sundays.

Source: http://www.profootballweekly.com/2011/10/27/week-eight-rb-rankings-2

Paul Brown Marion Motley Jim Brown Lou Groza Dante Lavelli Len Ford

Alastair

Here's a matchup to watch in Sunday's Browns-49ers game:

49ers pass rush vs. Browns pass protection

The 49ers, who employ a 3-4 scheme on defense, get very good pressure from their outside linebackers as well as their defensive linemen,

OLB Aldon Smith, the club's first-round pick in April, is off to a promising start to his pro career, to say the least. Smith has made a significant impact as a pass rusher, notching 5½ sacks. The 6-4, 258-pound Smith is quick and strong. He used his hands well in notching a pair of sacks vs. Lions OLT Jeff Backus in Week Six, closing quickly to bring down QB Matthew Stafford for a safety on the first takedown and for a big loss on the second.

In addition to Smith, who has starred in a reserve role, a la Terrell Suggs in Baltimore eight years ago, the 49ers have two solid starting outside linebackers in Parys Haralson (right) and Ahmad Brooks (left), who each have two sacks apiece.

The 49ers' starting DE tandem of Justin Smith (4½ sacks) and Ray McDonald (three sacks) also can be disruptive. Smith has long been a productive starter, one of the NFL's high-effort players. McDonald is also a player to watch. Late in the win at Detroit, he lined up in the middle in an obvious passing situation, pushed Lions C Dominic Raiola backward and sacked Stafford. It was a textbook display of the importance of leverage, as the 6-3, 290-pound McDonald got low and used his strength to win the battle.

The Browns allowed five sacks vs. Seattle on Sunday and have surrendered 14 in six games. Cleveland really struggled vs. Seattle's blitzes, something San Francisco surely noticed.

The Browns face challenges on a couple of fronts against the Niners' pass rush, which has shown it can get to the quarterback without blitzing. It will take a team effort to thrive against this impressive defense, which covers well and can generate significant pressure. The Browns' pass catchers must get open, the linemen must be stout and technically sound. The backs must pick up any free rushers, and tight ends need to be tough blocking on the edge.

QB Colt McCoy will need to be poised and accurate in the face of pressure, too, and should the pass protection break down, he needs to be creative but prudent. While he must be careful not to turn the ball over, the Browns need to make more downfield plays than they have in the first six games.

Source: http://www.profootballweekly.com/2011/10/27/browns-49ers-matchup-of-the-day-thursday

Washington Redskins New York Jets New England Patriots Denver Broncos Arizona Cardinals Kansas City Chiefs

Alastair

Source: http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/2011/10/27/2519114/matthew-stafford-injury-detroit-lions

Northwestern Wildcats Wichita State University Nebraska Cornhuskers North Carolina Tar Heels Louisiana Tech Bulldogs Arizona Wildcats

Alastair

Big Ten commissioner Jim Delany met with his basketball coaches Wednesday night and, comically and inevitably, conference expansion talk dominated more than hoops chatter.

Source: http://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/breaking/chi-delany-no-big-ten-expansion-talk-with-notre-dame-others-20111027,0,3422957.story?track=rss

Tory Collins Brandon McRae Jermelle Cudjo James Farrior Fred Davis Peter Mayer

Alastair

Indianapolis at Tennessee

The Colts are 2-5 vs. the spread, including 1-3 on the road. ... Indy has failed to cover its last three, and 10 of its previous 14, games overall. ... The Colts have covered one of their last four contests against AFC South rivals and have failed to cover their last four road games vs. AFC South squads. ... Indy has covered three of the previous 10 meetings and has covered one of the last five meetings on the road. ... The Colts have failed to cover their previous five times after surrendering 30 points or more in their previous outing and have covered one of their last seven games following a double-digit loss. ... Indy has covered its last three games following three consecutive non covers, and its previous six, and 10 of its last 12, regular-season contests have gone over the total. Nine of its previous 10 road games have gone over the total. ... The Titans are 2-4 against the number, including 1-2 at home. ... Tennessee has covered one of its last four, and five of its previous 15, games overall. ... The Titans have covered one of their last six times as a favorite and have covered one of their previous seven contests as a favorite of more than three points. ... Tennessee has covered one of its last five games following a double-digit loss, and four of their previous five contests have gone over the total.

Jacksonville at Houston

The Jaguars are 3-4 against the spread, including 1-2 on the road. ... Jacksonville has failed to cover its last four, and six of its previous seven, contests following a night game and has covered one of its last six times while playing the first of consecutive road contests. ... The Jaguars have covered one of their last four road games vs. AFC South rivals and have covered two of the previous nine meetings on the road. ... Jacksonville has covered five of its last six games prior to a contest at Indianapolis and has covered five of its previous six times before a bye week. ... Six of the Jaguars' last seven games have stayed under the total. ... The Texans are 4-3 vs. the number, including 2-1 at home. ... Houston has covered its last four home games against AFC South rivals and has covered four of its previous five contests overall vs. AFC South opponents. ... The Texans have covered their last three games following consecutive road contests but have failed to cover their previous five times following a game at Tennessee. ... Houston is 1-3-1 vs. the spread in its previous five contests following a double-digit win, and all three of its home games have stayed under the total.

Arizona at Baltimore

The Cardinals are 1-4-1 against the number, including 1-2 on the road. ... Arizona is 5-15-1 against the spread in its last 21 games and is 7-19-2 vs. the number in its previous 28 contests, including playoffs. ... The Cardinals have covered one of their last six times when playing a road game sandwiched between two home contests and have failed to cover their previous eight times after surrendering more than 21 points in their previous outing. ... Arizona has covered one of their last five games against AFC teams and is 1-4-1 vs. the spread in its previous six road contests vs. AFC foes. ... The Cardinals have covered one of their last s ix games following a double-digit loss. And five of their previous six road contests have stayed under the total. ... The Ravens are 4-2 against the number, including 3-0 at home. ... Baltimore has covered six of its last eight times when playing a home game sandwiched between two road contests and has covered its previous five home contests prior to consecutive road games. ... The Ravens have covered five of their last six games following a non cover, including playoffs and have covered nine of their previous 12 contests vs. NFC teams. ... Baltimore has covered two of its last eight games as a favorite of more than seven points and has covered one of its previous four regular-season contests prior to facing the Steelers.

Miami at New York Giants

The Dolphins are 0-6 against the spread, including 0-3 on the road. ... Miami has failed to cover its previous four road contests and has failed to cover its last nine games overall. ... The Dolphins have covered their previous three road contests against NFC opponents and have covered their last five times as a dog of 10 points or more. ... Miami's previous five contests have stayed under the total, and nine of its last 11 road games have stayed under the total. ... The Giants are 3-3 vs. the number, including 1-2 at home. ... New York has covered one of its last seven games against AFC opponents and has failed to cover its previous four contests as a favorite of eight points or more. ... The Giants have covered two of their last seven games as a favorite and have covered five of their previous 14 contests overall. ... New York's last four home games have gone over the total, and five of their six contests have gone over the total.

Minnesota at Carolina

The Vikings are 3-3-1 vs. the spread, including 1-2 on the road. ... Minnesota is 0-4-1 against the number in its last five regular-season games vs. NFC South opponents and is 1-4-1 against the spread in its previous six road contests against NFC South foes. ... The Vikings have failed to cover their last six regular-season games following a cover at home and have covered one of their previous nine regular-season contests following a cover. ... Minnesota has covered three of its last four games after hosting the Packers, and four of its previous six contests have gone over the total. ... The Panthers are 5-1-1 against the number, including 4-0 at home. ... Carolina has covered its last five home games and has covered four of its previous five contests against NFC North teams. ... The Panthers have covered their last three times while playing the second of consecutive home games but have failed to cover their previous three contests prior to a bye week. ... Five of Carolina's seven games have gone over the total.

New Orleans at St. Louis

The Saints are 4-3 against the spread, including 1-3 on the road. ... New Orleans has covered two of its last nine road games, including playoffs, and has covered one of its previous six contests as a road favorite, including playoffs. ... The Saints have failed to cover their last four road games against NFC West opponents and have covered one of their previous four times following a double-digit win. ... New Orleans has covered 10 of its last 11 road games sandwiched between two home contests and has covered its previous four regular-season contests as a favorite of more than seven points. ...The Rams are 0-6 vs. the number, including 0-3 at home. ... St. Louis has failed to cover its last seven, and nine of its previous 10, games and has covered one of its last six home contests. ... The Rams have covered one of their previous seven times as a dog of 10 points or more and have covered one of their previous seven contests following consecutive road games. ... St. Louis' last three contests have stayed under the total.

Washington vs. Buffalo at Toronto

The Redskins are 3-3 vs. the spread, including 2-1 on the road. ... Washington has covered six of its last eight times while playing the second of consecutive road games and has covered its previous three contests on artificial turf. ... The Redskins have covered their last four games as a dog of more than three points. ... Washington is 4-0-3 against the number in its previous seven contests against AFC squads but is 1-4-3 against the spread in its last eight games vs. AFC East opponents. ... The Bills are 4-2 vs. the number, including 2-1 at home. ... Buffalo is 11-5-1 vs. the spread in its previous 17 contests and has covered five of its last six games following a bye week. ... The Bills are 7-1-1 against the number in their previous nine contests against NFC East foes and are 7-3-1 against the spread in their last 11 home contests vs. NFC East teams. ... Buffalo has covered three of its previous four games against NFC opponents overall but is 1-3-1 vs. the number its last five times when playing the first of consecutive home contests. ... The Bills' previous seven games have gone over the total.

Detroit at Denver

The Lions are 4-2-1 vs. the spread, including 2-0-1 on the road. ... Detroit is 4-0-1 against the number in its last five road games and has covered its previous five contests on grass. ... The Lions are 0-9-1 against the spread in their previous 10 contests as a road favorite and have covered one of their last 11 games after failing to cover as a favorite. ... Detroit's previous three contests have stayed under the total. ... The Broncos are 2-4 vs. the number, including 0-3 at home. ... Denver has failed to cover its last four games against NFC opponents and has covered one of its previous nine contests vs. NFC North foes. ... The Broncos have failed to cover their last four home games and have covered two of their previous 10 home contests sandwiched between two road games. ... Denver has failed to cover its last eight games following a cover and has failed to cover its previous six contests following a cover on the road. ... The Broncos have failed to cover their last three home games prior to consecutive road contests and have failed to cover their previous three times prior to facing the Raiders. ... Eight of Denver's last nine home games have gone over the total.

Cleveland at San Francisco

The Browns are 2-2-2 vs. the spread, including 1-0-1 on the road. ... Cleveland is 3-9-2 against the number in its last 14 games and has failed to cover its previous four times after surrendering fewer than 17 points in its previous outing. ... The Browns are 2-6-2 against the spread in their last 10 games against NFC teams. ... Three of Cleveland's previous four contests have stayed under the total, and four of its last five road games have stayed under the total. ... The 49ers are 5-0-1 vs. the number, including 2-0-1 at home. ... San Francisco is 4-0-1 vs. the spread in its previous five home contests and has covered four of its last five times following a game on artificial turf. ... The 49ers have covered their previous five contests as a favorite and have covered their last five games as a favorite of five points or more. ... San Francisco has covered three of its last four games against AFC teams and has covered three of its previous four contests vs. AFC North opponents. ... The 49ers are 8-0-1 against the number in their last nine home games sandwiched between two road contests, and their previous five home contests have gone over the total.

Cincinnati at Seattle

The Bengals are 5-1 against the spread, including 3-0 on the road. ... Cincinnati has covered eight of its last nine games and has covered its previous four road contests. ... The Bengals have covered six of their last seven games following a cover at home and have covered three of their previous four times while playing the first of consecutive road contests. ... Cincinnati is 0-6-2 vs. the number in its last eight games against NFC West foes, and five of its six contests have gone over the total. ... The Seahawks are 3-2-1 vs. the spread, including 2-0 at home. ... Seattle is 3-0-1 against the number in its last four games and has covered its previous four road contests, including playoffs. ... The Seahawks have covered four of their last five times following consecutive road games and have covered eight of their previous nine times after scoring fewer than 17 points in their previous outing. ... Seattle is 1-4-1 against the spread in its last six games against AFC teams, and six of its previous eight home contests have gone over the total.

New England at Pittsburgh

The Patriots are 4-2 vs. the number, including 2-0 on the road. ... New England has covered its last six road games and has covered its previous six times as a favorite of fewer than seven points. ... The Patriots have covered seven of their last eight games on grass and are 32-13 vs. the spread in their previous 45 regular-season road contests. ... New England has covered eight of the previous 10 meetings, including playoffs, and has covered its last five, and 23 of its previous 30, road games sandwiched between two home contests. ... The Patriots have covered their previous six contests following a non cover. ... The Steelers are 3-4 against the number, including 2-1 at home. ... Pittsburgh has failed to cover its last three games as a dog, including playoffs, and has covered one of its previous four times prior to facing the Ravens. ... The Steelers have failed to cover their last four regular-season games vs. AFC East opponents and have covered two of their previous nine regular-season contests following a cover. ... Pittsburgh has covered six of its last seven games as a home dog, and eight of its previous 11 contests, including playoffs, have gone over the total.

Dallas at Philadelphia

The Cowboys are 3-2-1 against the spread, including 2-0-1 on the road. ... Dallas is 5-0-1 vs. the number in its last six games as a dog and has covered three of its previous four road contests sandwiched between two road games. ... The Cowboys have covered five of their last seven regular-season games following a double-digit win but have failed to cover their previous four times after surrendering 17 points or fewer in their previous outing, including playoffs. ... Dallas has failed to cover its last three games against NFC East rivals and is 1-4-1 vs. the spread in its previous six contests on grass. ... Three of the Cowboys' last four games have stayed under the total. ... The Eagles are 2-4 against the number, including 0-2 at home. ... Philadelphia has covered five of its last six games against NFC East rivals and has covered its previous nine contests after facing the Redskins. ... The Eagles have failed to cover their last three night games and have covered two of their previous seven times while playing the first of consecutive night contests. ... Philadelphia has failed to cover its last five games following a cover, including playoffs, and has covered one of its previous five times following consecutive road contests.

San Diego at Kansas City

The Chargers are 2-4 against the spread, including 1-2 on the road. ... San Diego has covered its last three night games and has covered three of its previous four times while playing the second of consecutive road contests. ... The Chargers have covered their last three games following a straight-up loss as a favorite and have covered four of their previous five contests vs. AFC West rivals. ... San Diego is 3-10-1 vs. the number in the last 14 meetings in Kansas City, and its previous five, and eight of its last 10, road contests have gone over the total. ... The Chiefs are 4-2 vs. the spread, including 1-1 at home. ... Kansas City has covered its previous four contests and has covered its last eight games as a dog of fewer than five points. ... The Chiefs have covered four of their previous five times following a straight-up win vs. the Raiders and have covered six of their last seven night games. ... Kansas City is 7-0-1 against the number its last eight games following consecutive road contests, and three of its previous four games have stayed under the total.

Source: http://www.profootballweekly.com/2011/10/27/week-eight-trends-and-tips-3

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