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Red Zone Master
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Steelers FF-specific Team Report
« on: Sep 5th, 2004, 1:29am » |
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by Jeremy Miller
Time & Date of this Update (PST): 12:15 on Fri Dec 31 2004
News: Week 17 Analysis: Desperation Only
Fantasy Football Slant:
I hope you don't have to even consider starting any Steelers this week as Pittsburgh travels to Buffalo. This is a relatively unimportant game for Pittsburgh, while it means Buffalo's playoff life. The game may be fun to watch, but projecting any stats at all for the offensive players may as well be done with a dart board.
Jerome Bettis won't play, Ben Roethlisberger will not start, and even the starters that do play will probably get limited action. If you absolutely have to have a QB, RB, or WR go with Maddox, Staley or Haynes, and Randle El respectively.
The team defense isn't even a good start this weekend, however I have a feeling Chad Scott will get picked on since he is returning to a starting role in relief of Deshea Townsend. He is a good bet for IDPers.
Time & Date of this Update (PST): 06:20 on Fri Dec 24 2004
News: Week 16 Analysis: Re-Identify Yourself
Fantasy Football Slant:
This Sunday, the Ravens visit Pittsburgh for a rematch of the only loss the Steelers sufferred this season. The atmosphere will be almost play-off intense, and this should be one of the most physical games of the season. I could see this game being a low-scoring defensive battle, or a blow-out reminiscent of the New England and Philly games. Either way, Pittsburgh will win... and win in a Pittsburgh style.
Ride the Bus if you have him. Jerome is almost a sure bet to go over the century mark and add a TD as Staley is almost definitely out. Burress, however, appears to be back. Still, don't expect a repeat of last week's pass-happy offense. Either Ward or Burress could have a good game - depending on how the Ravens play the dynamic duo - but either is a risk. Big Ben should get slightly over 200 yards with 1 or 2 TDs and a solid rating.
The defense remains a good play despite the abberation last week. Play them if you have them. Farrior is a great IDP start as he has been all season. Polamalu and Aaron Smith are OK starts, but all other defensive players are risks.
Good luck to all in championship and playoff games!
Time & Date of this Update (PST): 00:45 on Sat Dec 18 2004
News: Week 15 Analysis: NYG Outclassed
Fantasy Football Slant:
Today, the Steelers will take on the Giants in NJ. Everything points to an easy victory for Pittsburgh, but once again they will have few FF stars. Bettis should again start in place of Staley, who is still nursing a sore hamstring. The Bus makes a very good start. The defense should also be a great start against the lackluster Giants offense featuring struggling Eli Manning. Burress is also nursing a sore hammy and will not be playing, which continues to limit the passing game.
Offense: The offense seems to play to the level of its competition and has been very inconsistent lately, however Bettis has not been inconsitent, he has just had to wait in line behind Staley. Look elsewhere for QBs and WRs.
Roethlisberger (Pass 16-22-190-1-0, Fantasy Role = 2nd/3rd QB)
Bettis (Rush 27-110-2, Fantasy Role = #1/2 RB)
Ward (Rec. 5-65-1, Fantasy Role = #2 WR)
Randel El (Rec. 3-45-0, Fantasy Role = #2/3 WR)
Tuman (Rec. 3-25-0, Fantasy Role = emergency TE)
Defense: It should be ugly... but ugly is good if you own the Pit D.
Team Defense (75 Rush Yds Allowed, 150 Pass Yds Allowed, 4 sacks, 1 INT, 1 FF, 10 points allowed)
Special Teams:
Reed (3-3 XP, 1-1 FG)
Final Score: The only chance Giants have is if they sneak in Eli's brother.
Steelers - 24
Jets - 10
Time & Date of this Update (PST): 09:40 on Sat Dec 11 2004
News: Week 14 Analysis: NYJ Invade Pittsburgh
Fantasy Football Slant:
Pittsburgh was very blessed with their schedule this year. Yes, they have had to play both Philadelphia and New England and now they play the New York Jets, however they have been gifted by having these games scheduled at home. Unlike the two previous matchups, the Jets are relatively healthy and will not be taking the Steelers lightly. The Jets and the Steelers are very similar - both teams run well, defend the run well, and have a dynamic passing game they can call upon when needed. Pittsburgh is the better team, and is playing at home, but this should be a low scoring defense battle that could go to either team.
Offense: Roethlisberger showed that he could be effective without Burress last week, however the Steelers are going to try to get Duce Staley back to the form that he showed earlier this season and will feed him the ball. The Jets are tough against the run and will remain so even without John Abraham, so Pittsburgh will have to have a balanced attack. Hines Ward will be doubled all game, and Antwaan Randle-El will have to continue to improve. Don't expect any offensive stars from Pittsburgh, however Staley is a decent start. Ward, Big Ben, and Randle-El are all emergency starts this week, and if you are desperate at TE Jerame Tuman may get some stats.
Roethlisberger (Pass 16-22-190-1-0, Fantasy Role = 2nd/3rd QB)
Staley (Rush 25-90-1,Fantasy Role = #2 RB)
Bettis (Rush 5-20-0, Fantasy Role = TD only leagues - and then only in an emergency)
Ward (Rec. 4-55-0, Fantasy Role = #2/3 WR)
Randel El (Rec. 5-60-0, Fantasy Role = #2/3 WR)
Tuman (Rec. 3-25-1, Fantasy Role = emergency TE)
Defense: This should be a very good test for the Steelers D. It should be a low scoring game, however this is a dynamic offense that will not be a good opponent for any D.
Team Defense (100 Rush Yds Allowed, 225 Pass Yds Allowed, 2 sacks, 1 INT, 1 FF, 14 points allowed)
Special Teams:
Reed (2-2 XP, 1-1 FG)
Final Score: The Jets are winless in all 5 of their previous trips to Pittsburgh, and will lose this contest as well.
Steelers - 17
Jets - 14
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11/20/04 - Buckeyes salvage season by stomping that team from up north. (Posted 11/14/04)
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Red Zone Master
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Re: Steelers FF-specific Team Report
« Reply #1 on: Oct 16th, 2004, 3:15pm » |
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by Jeremy Miller
Time & Date of this Update (PST): 17:15 on Thurs Dec 9, 2004
News: Injury Front
Fantasy Football Slant:
Burress is out for this Sunday's game. Randle-El may be improving enough to be a decent (but risky) play.
Riemersma has been added to the IR. This effectively gives the team one pass catching TE (Jerame Tuman). The Steelers really don't use their TEs, but if you add both Riemersma's and Tuman's production together its OK. With Burress still out and Roethlisberger spreading the ball around, Tuman would work in an emergency.
Time & Date of this Update (PST): 09:45 on Sat Dec 4, 2004
News: Week 13 Analysis: Rough test in Jacksonville
Fantasy Football Slant:
Have the Steelers been playing down to the level of their competition, or are they truelly in a funk? Can Jacksonville maintain their playoff hopes, or will they get lost in the talent-rich AFC? The Steeler's appear to be set-up for an upset this week, but I believe they will rise to the occasion on Sunday night.
Staley should play, but Burress most likely will not when the Steelers take on the Jaguars this Sunday night in Jacksonville. The Steeler passing game has been floundering lately - mostly because they have been missing Burress, but also because Roethlisberger's magic scrambles have turned into sacks. The running game is still flourishing, but with Staley finally coming back (by all indications) the carries could be split evenly between Duce and the Bus. The Jags are also very good against the run. I suggest that you sit all Pittsburgh offensive players until they find their groove and/or Burress returns from his hamstring injury.
The defense remains dominant, but face a QB with a little magic of his own in Leftwich. The game will probably hinge on how the defense performs against the Jaguars QB. Pittsburgh's team D/ST remains a good play, but not a great one (top 10, not top five).
No projections for this week. Just a reminder that if you are thinking about starting any Steeler offensive players, think again.
Time & Date of this Update (PST): 22:35 on Thurs Nov 25 2004
News: Week 12 Analysis: Few FF Stars in Rout over Washington
Fantasy Football Slant:
This Sunday, the Steelers will feast on the Redskins at Heinz Field. Washington should pose few problems for Pittsburgh at home, even with Plaxico Burress out due to a strained hammy. The game should follow the standard pattern of previous lopsided Steeler wins. In the first half, the Steelers will dominate with a balanced offense and an attacking defense. The second half will be pure ball control as the Black-n-Gold cruise to another victory.
Pittsburgh is a team that needs adversity to enable players to get decent FF stats. I'd generally avoid all offensive players, however the team D is a must play. Farrior and Polamalu are also good plays for IDPers. Randel El becomes a good play in leagues that give points for return yards and/or TDs to individual players. He came close to busting out last week on punt returns and will still return punts as he steps in for Burress as a starting WR.
Offense: While I am comfortable with the team totals, the individual player projections are up in the air this week due to Duce returning and the abscence of Burress.
Roethlisberger (Pass 17-24-205-1-0, Fantasy Role = 2nd QB)
Staley (Rush 27-110-0, Rec. 2-10-0, Fantasy Role = #2 RB)
Bettis (Rush 8-25-1,Fantasy Role = TD only league stud)
Haynes (Rush 3-10-0, Rec. 2-15-0, Fantasy Role = none)
Ward (Rec. 6-85-1, Fantasy Role = #1/#2 WR)
Randel El (Rec. 4-60-0, Fantasy Role = #3 WR)
Lee Mays (Rec. 1-15-0, Fantasy Role = none)
Tuman (Rec. 1-10-0, Fantasy Role = None)
Riemersma (Rec. 1-10-0, Fantasy Role = None)
Defense: Ramsey is the wildcard. I expect him to struggle, but he could get hot and change the outcome of the game.
Team Defense (70 Rush Yds Allowed, 160 Pass Yds Allowed, 5 sacks, 1 INT, 1 FF, 10 points allowed, 1 D or ST TD)
Special Teams:
Reed (3-3 XP, 1-2 FG)
Final Score: Steelers roll.
Steelers - 24
Redskins - 10
Time & Date of this Update (PST): 22:10 on Tues Nov 23 2004
News: Injuries Revisited
Fantasy Football Slant:
Updating my last report, Buress and Bell are out this Sunday. Bell will be out at least 3 more weeks and potentially the season. No news related to how long Plax's absence will be for. However, Duce practiced and I expect him to start Sunday.
Time & Date of this Update (PST): 04:10 on Tues Nov 23 2004
News: Injury News: Plax, Bell, and Duce
Fantasy Football Slant:
Plaxico Burress suffered a hamstring strain during the Cincinatti game, however it is unclear how serious the injury is at this time. If he is out, it will hamper the entire offense and both Randel El and Lee Mays will get more action.
Also during the game last Sunday, Kendrell Bell reinjured his groin. His status is also unclear at this time.
Cowher sounds optimistic that Duce Staley will finally be back from his hamstring injury this week.
Time & Date of this Update (PST): 20:35 on Sat Nov 20 2004
News: Week 11 Analysis: A Trap in the Jungle?
Fantasy Football Slant:
The Stillers travel to Cincinatti this weekend to play a relatively hot Bengals team (winners of 3 of their last 4 games). This is a scary game for the black and gold for many reasons. The Bengals have a power rushing attack, and will finally test NT Chris Hoke's abilities as a run stopper. Jerome Bettis once again starts for Staley, however he should feel his age in his third straight week as a featured back. Cincinatti's pass defense is good, and may force some turnovers from Big Ben. Chad Johnson's statements (paraphrased, "bring a dollar to the gates to help pay my fine for my new TD dance") caused laughter, not anger as Warren's comments did last week. Still, Pittsburgh is the better team, and the stadium will be about 30% filled with Steeler fans - which will negate the energy the Bengals got in their Monday night game against Denver.
Offense: Shy away from the Bus. Ward and Burress will be good starts, however Big Ben will prove that he is a mortal with a couple turnovers.
Roethlisberger (Pass 18-30-235-1-1-1 fumble, Fantasy Role = 2nd QB)
Bettis (Rush 20-65-1,Fantasy Role = #2/3 RB)
Haynes (Rush 3-10-0, Rec. 1-10-0, Fantasy Role = none)
Ward (Rec. 8-100-0, Fantasy Role = #1 WR)
Burress (Rec. 6-95-1, Fantasy Role = #1 WR)
Randel El (Rec. 2-20-0, Fantasy Role = None)
Tuman (Rec. 1-10-0, Fantasy Role = None)
Defense: Rudi Johnson gained over a hundred yards in the first match-up this year, and should do it again. However, the game will hinge on Palmer's passing and the Steeler's pass D.
Team Defense (130 Rush Yds Allowed, 175 Pass Yds Allowed, 4 sacks, 1 INT, 1 FF, 14 points allowed)
Special Teams:
Reed (2-2 XP, 1-1 FG)
Final Score: Jeff Reed springs the trap with a late field goal.
Steelers - 17
Bengals - 14
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11/20/04 - Buckeyes salvage season by stomping that team from up north. (Posted 11/14/04)
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Red Zone Master
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Re: Steelers FF-specific Team Report
« Reply #2 on: Nov 23rd, 2004, 7:45am » |
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by Jeremy Miller
Time & Date of this Update (PST): 22:45 on
Thurs Nov 18 2004
News: Staley Doubtful
Fantasy Football Slant:
Its looking like Duce Staley will miss another game with his hamstring injury. All the other key RBs will play, although they are all dinged.
Time & Date of this Update (PST): 0:15 on Sat Nov 13 2004
News: Week Ten Analysis... Thank You Mr. Warren
Fantasy Football Slant:
The Browns DT Gerard Warren let everyone know he will be head-hunting Ben Roethlisberger this weekend. Now, instead of potentially suffering a let-down, the Steelers have a little something extra to get them motivated for this Sunday's contest in Cleveland. The Browns play well at home, and have sufferred some close defeats recently, but they are not up to the same calibre as Pittsburgh. This will be another game where the entire second half is spent running out the clock and demoralizing the opposition's defense (that'll be the entire line that swarmed you under, Mr. Warren). Every indication is that Duce Staley won't play (making Jerome Bettis a very good play this weekend), however Kreider should be healthy enough to lead the way for the Bus.
Offense: Other than Bettis, unless you get points for the number of times Gerard Warren gets put on his back, think twice about starting any Steelers. They should get some decent stats in the first half, however there is little chance they will have to do anything in the second half. If you are incredibly desperate, there is a good chance Willie Parker will get some mop-up time at RB.
Roethlisberger (Pass 13-17-175-1-0, Fantasy Role = emergency QB)
Bettis (Rush 30-130-2,Fantasy Role = #1 RB)
Parker (Rush 10-45-1, Rec. 1-10-0, Fantasy Role = emergency RB)
Ward (Rec. 6-65-0, Fantasy Role = #2 WR)
Burress (Rec. 3-60-1, Fantasy Role = #2 WR)
Randel El (Rec. 2-20-0, Fantasy Role = None)
Riemersma/Tuman (Rec. 2-20-0, Fantasy Role = None)
Defense: Jeff Garcia is the one player that can make this into a good game. He showed the ability to escape the blitz the last time these teams met. The Steelers team D should be a very good play, but the IDPs won't see much time on the field as the Steelers offense eats up chunks of clock.
Team Defense (70 Rush Yds Allowed, 200 Pass Yds Allowed, 3 sacks, 1 INT, 1 FF, 17 points allowed)
Special Teams:
Reed (4-4 XP, 2-2 FG)
Final Score: No letdown. The Browns get some garbage to make it look closer than it is.
Steelers - 34
Eagles - 17
Time & Date of this Update (PST): 22:55 on Wed Nov 10 2004
News: Value-able IDPs
Fantasy Football Slant:
As the Steelers get more and more media attention, the percevied FF value of players on the team has risen above what it should be. Because of the balance and depth on offense, statistics worthy of a start in most FF leagues will be hard to come by. Staley (when healthy) will get yards, but few TDs. Bettis will get TDs, but not many yards. Roethlisberger will be dynamite in the first half and then hand off all second half. Ward and Burress may be worthy of a start one week and then underperform statistically in the next.
There is at least one undervalued player left on the team. Relatively quietly, Troy Polamalu leads the team in tackles (35 solo and 15 assists) and is tied for second with 2 interceptions. Last week, Polamalu was used at times to cover Terrell Owens and the second year safety performed surprisingly well. Polamalu has the whole package, his biggest fault is that he will bite on play action (which may actually help his FF status). The one stat where he lags is sacks, he has none for the season, but look for that to change soon as the Steelers blitz everyone and Polamalu is a prime candidate to fire in on opposing QBs. Troy could easily become one of the premier FF DBs in the near future and may still be available for a relatively cheap price.
Pittsburgh has some very flashy LBs, but none of them are worth as much or playing as well as James Farrior. Farrior is second on the team in tackles (31 solo and 16 assists) and also has 3 sacks, 2 interceptions, 3 forced fumbles, and 3 fumble recoveries. Kendrell Bell is finally healthy enough to see the field, but he won't eat into Farrior's game time. I'd advise to avoid all the other Steeler LBs, who are very inconsitent, but Farrior is a diamond disguised as a lump of coal.
Time & Date of this Update (PST): 22:25 on Wed Nov 10 2004
News: Free Willie?
Fantasy Football Slant:
The only active RB not on the injury list for the Steelers is Willie Parker (undrafted Free Agent rookie). Verron Haynes is doubtful, both Kreider and Staley are questionable, and Bettis is probable. Right now it looks as though the Bus will start at RB, TE Matt Cushing will play at FB, and Parker will probably serve as the 3rd down back and also see some mop-up duty. Parker was the leading rusher in preseason for the Steelers and brings something to the table that none of the other RBs has - blazing speed. With the Bus and Staley both past their prime, and Verron Haynes appearing to be an unspectacular career-backup, Willie could be the future at the position.
Time & Date of this Update (PST): 21:30 on Sat Nov 6 2004
News: Staley Questionable
Fantasy Football Slant:
Duce Staley strained his hamstring Friday and was significantly worse on Saturday's walkthrough. Right now they are calling him a game time decision.
If Staley can't play, Jerome Bettis and/or Verron Haynes will carry the load. Cowher went with Haynes in the mud during the Miami game, so he isn't afraid to go against the grain. I expect to see a bit of both in the first quarter and then Cowher will go with the hot hand.
The passing game should remain very close to what I previously predicted, however if Staley can't go I see the RBs this way:
Bettis (Rush 19-60-1,Fantasy Role = #2 RB)
Haynes (Rush 7-25-0, Rec. 3-20-0, Fantasy Role = gamble)
I also see Reed kicking another field goal and one less PAT:
Reed (3-3 XP, 2-2 FG)
Final Score: I hate predicting a loss, but a reversal of the scores I previously posted could be in the cards.
Steelers -
Eagles -
Time & Date of this Update (PST): 6:55 on Thurs Nov 6 2004
News: Week Nine Analysis
Fantasy Football Slant:
The Eagles come to Heinz Field this Sunday as the league's last undefeated team. Philly is coming off back to back squeakers against Cleveland and Baltimore in which they did enough to just win, while Pittsburgh is basking in the glow of an incredibly dominating performance against New England. This game should be as close to a shoot-out as you will see from the Steelers this season and will give owners some very nice fantasy numbers.
Offense: The Eagles have a very good defense, but it will not be enough to stop the balanced attack from the 'Burgh. Philadelphia's offense will also keep the pressure on the Steelers to score. These two factors mean that Pitsburgh will not be able to go into its ground control 2nd half all-run mode and you can expect some very good numbers out of all the key players. Duce Staley is acting like this game does not mean anything extra to him, but I do not fully believe that, and expect some extra motivation from him. I have a suspicion the Bus will get parked in goal-line situations, as a "reward" to Staley from the coaching staff. Nothing has worked against Big Ben - last week New England mostly went with a coverage defense. Philadelphia will probably go with their strength and blitz a lot. That should result in a lower completion percentage and some more big plays.
Roethlisberger (Pass 20-30-275-2-1, Fantasy Role = #1 QB)
Staley (Rush 30-135-2, Rec. 2-10-0, Fantasy Role = #1 RB)
Bettis (Rush 2-2-0,Fantasy Role = none)
Haynes (Rush 0-0-0, Rec. 1-10-0, Fantasy Role = none)
Ward (Rec. 6-85-1, Fantasy Role = #1 WR)
Burress (Rec. 4-100-1, Fantasy Role = #1 WR)
Randel El (Rec. 3-35-0, Fantasy Role = None)
Riemersma/Tuman (Rec. 3-25-0, Fantasy Role = None)
Defense: The Eagles are almost custom-made to give the Steelers defense problems. Scrambling QBs have been hurting them all season. With Scott out, none of the Steeler's Cornerbacks have the size to cover Terrell Owens. The Steelers should double TO all day and force Philadelphia to beat them in other ways. That still won't be enough to totally shut him down, or shut him up. The keys will be getting good containment style pressure on McNabb and the efficacy of the Eagles running backs in both passing and rushing aspects.
For those of you in IDP leagues, feel very comfortable starting Polamalu, Hope, and Townsend as DBs and Farrior and Porter as LBs. I would be hesitant to start any DL, but Aaron Smith could be used in a pinch. Others to start in a pinch would be Foote and Haggans as LBs.
Team Defense (80 Rush Yds Allowed *30-50 will be McNabb*, 325 Pass Yds Allowed, 3 sacks, 1 INT, 1 FF, 27 points allowed)
Special Teams: Reed is a good kicker who doesn't get many opportunities.
Reed (4-4 XP, 1-1 FG)
Final Score: The 1972 Dolphins break out the champagne.
Steelers - 31
Eagles - 27
Time & Date of this Update (PST): 9:10 on Mon Nov 3 2004
News: Maddox and Bell Back From Injuries
Fantasy Football Slant:
Tommy Maddox will be available this Sunday as the second or third QB. Cowher officially stated that Roethlisberger is the starter the rest of the season (duh).
Kendrell Bell should also be back. Its been a rough season for Bell. In the preseason he had a shoulder injury, then a groin injury which was later diagnosed as a Sports Hernia. For those of you curious about what a Sports Hernia is (as I was): http://www.physsportsmed.com/issues/1998/01jan/batt.htm. This Sunday, Kendrell will not start; and it will be interesting to see what happens the rest of the season. Larry Foote has performed well in place of Bell and will be hard to get off the field. However, Kendrell is the most talented defensive player for the Steelers and has the potential to be an IDP stud. I expect Bell and Foote will split time on the field while James Farrior remains as an (almost) every down player. However, Bell is worth a spot on your IDP roster due to his potential if he reclaims the starting role he should have.
Time & Date of this Update (PST): 21:45 on Thurs Oct 28 2004
News: Week Eight Analysis
Fantasy Football Slant:
The Steelers are the next team to try to stop the Patriots when New England visits Heinz Field this Sunday. Pittsburgh appears to be a very good matchup against New England, but the Patriots have heard that before and still kept winning. This game will mostly be decided on such items as limiting mistakes, ability to feed off the crowd (or take the crowd out of the game), and red-zone effeciency. This is a huge game, make no mistake, but it will probably yield very pedestrian fantasy results for the players involved.
Offense: [i]The Steelers will want to present a balanced offensive attack, but eventually the game will come down to Ben Roethlisberger. Will he be able to retain his calm presence in a big game against a stellar defense? Nothing has rattled him so far, and even when he faces the unexpected this Sunday he will remain composed. He has begun to spread the ball out to more receivers, so it will be irrelevant to the team's success if the Patriots are able to shut down one of the wide receivers. Expect New England to give him a huge variety of looks, as nothing has had much success against him.
The Steelers can not win being a one-dimensional team and will need to run the ball. This is the easiest part of their offense for a defense to key on and shut-down, but Cowher is almost religiously obsessed with
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| « Last Edit: Dec 11th, 2004, 12:09pm by bgsgfan » |
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11/20/04 - Buckeyes salvage season by stomping that team from up north. (Posted 11/14/04)
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Red Zone Master
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CBFL Champ - '03
# 18
He ain't on the all-time list because he's pretty.
Posts: 1296
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Re: Steelers FF-specific Team Report
« Reply #3 on: Nov 23rd, 2004, 7:46am » |
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by Jeremy Miller
Time & Date of this Update (PST): 11:00 on Sat Oct 16 2004
News: Week Six Analysis
Fantasy Football Slant:
The Steeler's next three games will show just how good they are. This week, Pittsburgh travels to Dallas riding a surging wave of Big Ben Mania. Hopefully they will not look ahead to the two home games after their bye, where they face the two best teams in the league, New England and Philadelphia.
Dallas provides an intriguing matchup. The Cowboys' defense has underperformed so far this season, but has the potential to be very stingy. Their offense has been limited by the lack of a legitimate running back, however Vinny and his receivers have performed very well. Coming off last week's loss to the Giants, Bill Parcells will have his team well motivated.
Offense: Look for Dallas to focus on stopping Pittsburgh's running game. I expect them to do an adequate job at that, especially during the first half of the game. The interesting part will be how they defend the passing attack. Ben Roethlisberger has made his big plays on scrambles, where he is always looking downfield. The weakness in Big Ben's game is that he does not have the confidence (yet) to throw to his receivers before they make their break. Expect Dallas to limit their rushes and play heavy coverage on obvious passing downs. How well the rookie quarterback does will be a huge factor in who wins this game. From a fantasy perspective, Dallas's offense will score enough to keep the pressure on Pittsburgh, which in turn will relate to a less conservative game plan (especially in the second half), leading to some very good statistics. If Dallas plays the way I expect, Ward should be the key receiver and fantasy stud.
Roethlisberger (Pass 25-35-275-2-1, Fantasy Role = #1 QB)
Staley (Rush 20-70-1, Rec. 3-15-0, Fantasy Role = #2 RB)
Bettis (Rush 3-7-1,Fantasy Role = Scoring league use only)
Haynes (Rush 3-13-0, Rec. 3-15-0, Fantasy Role = none)
Ward (Rec. 9-125-1, Fantasy Role = #1 WR)
Burress (Rec. 3-60-1, Fantasy Role = #3 WR)
Randel El (Rec. 4-35-0, Fantasy Role = None)
Defense: Mobile quarterbacks have been hurting the Steeler's defense; although they have been getting a lot of pressure, they have not been able to transfer that into sacks. Vinny is not mobile, and Pittsburgh has destroyed him in the past, but he is older and wiser now. He will still throw interceptions when pressured, but he will be able to get his yards as well. Dallas will not be able to run on the Steelers, except draws on obvious passing downs. The Steelers defense will be a very good play in leagues that do not factor in yardage and scoring.
Team Defense (75 Rush Yds Allowed, 325 Pass Yds Allowed, 4 sacks, 2 INT, 1 FF, 27 points allowed)
Special Teams: Reed will benefit from a shoot-out.
Reed (4-4 XP, 1-1 FG)
Final Score: Could go either way, it will be higher scoring because of each team's abilities on offense, not deficiencies on defense.
Steelers - 31
Cowboys – 27
PLEASE do NOT post to this thread! This thread is only to be appended to by Jeremy Miller.
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| « Last Edit: Dec 11th, 2004, 12:07pm by bgsgfan » |
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11/20/04 - Buckeyes salvage season by stomping that team from up north. (Posted 11/14/04)
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Red Zone Master
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CBFL Champ - '03
# 18
He ain't on the all-time list because he's pretty.
Posts: 1296
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Re: Steelers FF-specific Team Report
« Reply #4 on: Dec 11th, 2004, 12:06pm » |
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by Jeremy Miller
Time & Date of this Update (PST): 6:45 on Sun Oct 10 2004
News: Week Five Analysis
Fantasy Football Slant:
The key to this week's game versus the Browns at Heinz field will be the Browns passing game. The Steelers defense is good enough to take away one aspect from the opposing team, and they will limit Suggs and the rest of the running backs. This will open up opportunities for the Browns in their passing game, but so far this season Garcia has not been able to take advantage of his opportunities. He is due to start turning the corner and this could be the week. I realize that the stats so far this season show the Steelers defense to be much better against the passing game than the rushing attack, but this has been a result of game planning to a large extent - don't be a sucker for the pure statistics. This matchup, as well as the potential for the Steelers defense in FF, will purely come down to Garcia. The opportunity is there for them to be huge, but I am not that optimistic.
On the offensive side, the Steelers will once again be a balanced team that yields no FF stars... other than the potential for Hines Ward. With Jerome Bettis taking away Duce's goal-line carries, and Verron Haynes getting the call on third-down; Duce Staley just doesn't have the opportunity to be a stud. Ben Roethlisberger looks almost too good to be true, but unless the Steelers get behind early he will not get enough opportunities to put up big numbers.
Roethlisberger (Pass 15-25-175-1-1, Fantasy Role = Bye week fill-in)
Staley (Rush 20-70-0, Rec. 2-10-0, Fantasy Role = #3 RB)
Bettis (Rush 3-7-1,Fantasy Role = Scoring league use only)
Haynes (Rush 3-13-0, Rec. 3-15-0, Fantasy Role = none)
Ward (Rec. 5-75-1, Fantasy Role = #2 WR)
Burress (Rec. 3-50-0, Fantasy Role = #3 WR)
Randel El (Rec. 2-25-0, Fantasy Role = None)
Reed (2-2 XP, 1-2 FG)
Team Defense (90 Rush Yds Allowed, 225 Pass Yds Allowed, 3 sacks, 2 INT, 0 FF, 16 points allowed)
The bottom line is that the Steelers are due for a let-down, but the Browns are not good enough to turn that into a loss... and Pittsburgh will back into a 4-1 record. Final score: Pit 17, Cle 16.
Time & Date of this Update (PST): 8:30 on Sat Oct 2 2004
News: Steelers Week Four Analysis
Fantasy Football Slant:
Short and sweet this week. I think this will be a coming out party for the Steeler's offense this week. The Bengals have the league's second worst defense against the run. They will stack the line and dare Roethlisberger to pass. Big Ben will have some success with the passing attack, opening up the run; and the Steelers will post some impressive numbers.
The defense should be very motivated going against the Bengals. Supposedly, one of the reasons LeBeau chose a lateral move from the Bills to the Steelers is the opportunity to face his former team twice a year, every year. Don't expect a repeat of last week's defensive prowess, however they are a decent play this week.
Reed should be able to feed off the offense's success and also do better than average.
The Steelers will handily beat the Bengals by about 27-10.
Time & Date of this Update (PST): 19:30 on Sat Sept 25 2004
News: Steelers Week Three Analysis
Fantasy Football Slant:
The forecast for this week's game at Miami is ugly, and that's before considering Hurricane Jeanne and the postponement of the game due to the storm. As of the time of this report, no official word has been made regarding when the game will be played, although it is widely believed it will be played Sunday night. It wouldn't take a hurricane to make these offenses look ugly. Think twice before starting any offensive players from either team, even the normal automatic start of Hines Ward. However, if you have the opportunity to start either of the defenses, do it. They may be the best two defensive options in the league this week.
Offense: The Dolphins defense is one of the best in the league. They have played very well in spite of their offense, and will be going after Ben Roethlisberger in his first start. The Steelers will try to rely on their running game, which isn't a change in M.O.. The problem is that the rushing attack has not performed as well as expected. Verron Haynes is sufferring through a hip pointer, and while he will be available, Duce Staley will probably see time as the third down back, and Jerome Bettis may be used a tad more. Last week, Ben Roethlisberger performed looked very talented... and like a rookie when he threw 2 interceptions (and almost a third). Expect more of the same this week.
Roethlisberger (Pass 11-20-135-1-1, Fantasy Role = Bench)
Staley (Rush 20-70-0, Rec. 3-15-0, Fantasy Role = #3 RB)
Bettis (Rush 5-10-0,Fantasy Role = None)
Ward (Rec. 4-60-0, Fantasy Role = #2 WR)
Burress (Rec. 2-35-1, Fantasy Role = #3 WR)
Randel El (Rec. 1-10-0, Fantasy Role = None)
Defense: The Dolphin's offense has some talent. The receivers are very good with Chambers, Booker, and McMichael. Lamar Gordon has the talent to succeed. Feely is young, but he has the tools to be a good QB; and Fiedler has been a winner through his career. The problem is their offensive line. Wade Smith is the only starter from last year's unit that remains with the team, and he will not be starting this week. Because of their line, any defense that faces them will be coveted throughout Fantasy-land.
Team Defense (95 Rush Yds Allowed, 150 Pass Yds Allowed, 3 sacks, 1 INT, 2 FF, 6 points allowed)
Special teams: Distance kicks may be very hard to come by with Jeanne in the way.
Reed (2-2 XP, 0-2 FG)
Final Score: The defenses will score more than the offenses.
Steelers - 14
Dolphins - 13
Time & Date of this Update (PST): 14:50 on Mon Sept 20 2004
News: Maddox Out At Least Six Weeks
Fantasy Football Slant:
An MRI revealed slight tears in the ligaments of Tommy Maddox's throwing arm. It will not require surgery, however it will be six weeks before he can resume throwing. Like it or not, the team is now in Ben Roethlisberger's hands. Check back to get my evaluation of both his efforts this past Sunday and his FF impact the rest of the season. For now, consider his production to closely mirror what you would expect from Maddox.
Time & Date of this Update (PST): 17:30 on Fri Sept 17 2004
News: Steelers Week Two Analysis
Fantasy Football Slant:
Even though Pittsburgh fans have gravitated back to the geographic rivalry with the new Browns, the team is still focused on the old version now known as the Ravens. Make no mistake, these teams hate one another. This week's defensive clash will take place in Baltimore and will go a long way towards establishing an early favorite in the AFC North. Baltimore will look to rebound from a week one thrashing by and in Cleveland, while the Steelers will look to build momentum from the narrow win against the Raiders. As with any true rivalry game, this one could go any direction; but look for a low scoring defensive battle. There are five good fantasy starts in this game: Jamal Lewis, Hines Ward, Todd Heap, and the two defensive units. Duce Staley is a borderline start, but after that I hope you have other options.
Offense: The Steelers will have a rough time against a defense motivated by last week's loss and an ongoing war-of-words. This week will test just how dedicated they are to their running attack.
Maddox (Pass 15-24-175-1-1, Rush 2-10-0, Fantasy Role = Bench)
Staley (Rush 20-75-0, Rec. 3-20-0, Fantasy Role = #3 RB)
Bettis (Rush 5-10-0,Fantasy Role = None)
Ward (Rec. 6-70-1, Fantasy Role = #1/#2 WR)
Burress (Rec. 3-45-0, Fantasy Role = #3/#4 WR)
Randel El (Rec. 2-25-0, Fantasy Role = None)
Defense: The mission will be to stop or slow down Jamal Lewis. The Ravens are attempting to add some sort of dimension to their offense by practicing both Kordell Stewart and Deion Sanders as WR's, but at this point I see that as mostly subterfuge.
Team Defense (120 Rush Yds Allowed, 150 Pass Yds Allowed, 3 sacks, 2 INT, 1 FF, 10 points allowed)
Defense: Although Jeff Reed won't get many chances, this game will probably be decided by a field goal.
Reed (1-1 XP, 2-2 FG)
Final Score: As suggested earlier, I would not be surprised to see this game go any way at all, but I expect a low scoring affair. In fact, I will go out on a limb and predict that the win comes via Jeff Reed in OT.
Steelers - 13
Ravens - 10
Time & Date of this Update (PST): 22:40 on Wed Sept 15 2004
News: Week One Win Highlights 2004 Identity
Fantasy Football Slant:
Run the ball, stop the run, and attack on passing downs. Its a familiar formula for the Steelers, one they veered away from the past two seasons but have re-adopted this year. Watch for the first half of the season to continue in much the same fashion. Although Jerome Bettis should continue to vulture goal-line carries from Duce Staley, it won't be as radical as it was versus the Raiders. Hines Ward remains a top fantasy receiver even with the emphasis on the run, but the only other reliable fantasy producers are Staley and possibly the defense depending on how your league is scored. For you IDPers out there, Clark Haggans looked fantastic. He is primed to be the star of the defense. Larry Foote also looked good, but he will not be a full time starter. However, his performance will have a trickle-down effect on Kendrell Bell's playing time and fantasy value as Foote has now taken Bell's place in the Nickle defense.
Time & Date of this Update (PST): 08:45 on Sat Sept 11 2004
News: Steelers Week One Analysis
Fantasy Football Slant:
Oakland visits Heinz Field this Sunday with both teams looking to establish an identity and rebound from a poor season. For the Steelers, Ken Whisenhunt will call his first plays ever as an Offensive Coordinator in a regular season game. The key matchup will be the Steeler's running attack versus the Raiders rushing defense which features newcomers Warren Sapp and gigantic Ted Washington.
Time & Date of this Update (PST): 22:40 on Wed Sept 15 2004
News: Week One Win Highlights 2004 Identity
Fantasy Football Slant:
Run the ball, stop the run, and attack on passing downs. Its a familiar formula for the Steelers, one they veered away from the past two seasons but have re-adopted this year. Watch for the first half of the season to continue in much the same fashion. Although Jerome Bettis should continue to vulture goal-line carries from Duce Staley, it won't be as radical as it was versus the Raiders. Hines Ward remains a top fantasy receiver even with the emphasis on the run, but the only other reliable fantasy producers are Staley and possibly the defense depending on how your league is scored. For you IDPers out there, Clark Haggans looked fantastic. He is primed to be the star of the defense. Larry Foote also looked good, but he will not be a full time starter. However, his performance will have a trickle-down effect on Kendrell Bell's playing time and fantasy value as Foote has now taken Bell's place in the Nickle defense.
QB
Tommy Maddox:19 of 29 for 200 yards, 2 TDs, and 1 INT
Look for little production out of the passing game as the Steelers use this week to truelly reestablish their identity as a running dominated offense.
RB's
Duce Staley: 135 rushing yards, 1 TD; 30 receiving yards
Jerome Bettis: 25 rushing yards
Verron Hayes: 15 fushing yards; 15 receiving yards, 1TD
The biggest variable here is Jerome. If the Steelers are comfortably ahead, he could get a lot more carries and yards.
WR's
Hines Ward: 6 receptions for 80 yards, 5 rushing yards
Plaxico Burress: 4 receptions for 65 yards, 1 TD
Antwaan Randel El: 2 receptions for 15 yards, 15 rushing yards, 15 passing yards
Randel El is the emergency QB as the Steelers will only have Maddox and Ben Roethlisberger in pads. As such I look for them to get him the ball in a couple gimmicky situations.
TE's:The Steelers have Tight Ends?
K
Jeff Reed: 2 of 3 Field Goals, 3 PAT's
Def: With a lot of inexperience in the secondary and Kendrell Bell probably out of the game, I expect the defense to give up some big plays and would go with a different option this week.
Final Score: Oakland 24, Pittsburgh 27
Time & Date of this Update (PST): 08:05 on Sat Sept 11 2004
News: Kendrell Bell questionable for Sunday's game
Fantasy Football Slant:
It's not the shoulder that has been bothering him for most of training camp, its a groin injury sufferred this week that will probably keep him out of the game. Downgrade the whole D/ST unit and don't play Bell in IDP leagues.
Time & Date of this Update (PST): 00:09 on Thurs Sept 9 2004
News: As expected, Duce named starter
Fantasy Football Slant:
Cowher officially named Duce Staley the starting Running Back. Staley will not have the same troubles Zereoue had last year, and Jerome Bettis will only become the starter if Duce is injured. As a follow-up to my previous update, Dante Brown cleared waivers and was signed to the practice squad. For this year, push Brown and Willie Parker to the back of your mind because they have Staley, Bettis, and Verron Hayes all in front of them.
Time & Date of this Update (PST): 19:42 on Sun Sept 5 2004
News: Dante Brown among players cut
Fantasy Football Slant:
Last minute trade talks with Miami fell through, and Dante Brown was released today to reach the roster limitations. The second year RB will be one of the most sought after players on the NFL waiver wire. Depending on where he ends up, he could become an impact player in fantasy leagues. For the Steelers, this means that undrafted free agent Willie Parker could be the future at RB.
Time & Date of this Update (PST): 22:24 on Sat Sept 4 2004
News: Preseason offense looks impressive, particularly running game
Fantasy Football Slant:
The Steelers appear to be going back to their Cowher roots; persistently running the ball in preseason. While the entire offense has looked impressive, ranking 3rd in the league in yards per game, the rushing attack has been particularly strong. Their league leading rushing attack is averaging 171 ypg, while the second ranked Bills are averaging 141 ypg. The entire stable of backs looks strong: newcomer Duce Staley (4.4 average), undrafted free agent Willie Parker (4.4 average), second-year back Dante Brown (4.4 average), the oft-injured RB/FB Verron Hayes (4.2 average), and the greybeard Jerome Bettis has even had his moments (3.4 average). Staley could easily be in for a career year, as he has never been part of an offense as devoted to the run as the Steelers.
Time & Date of this Update (PST): 22:23 on Sat Sept 4 2004
News: Maddox efficient, Roethlisberger shows potential
Fantasy Football Slant:
Tommy Maddox has looked very steady in the preseason, going 17 of 25 for 241 yards, 1 TD, no interceptions and a 112 passer rating. Ben Roethlisberger has shown flashes of talent, but needs to get more consistent. Maddox will be the starter all year, barring injury. He represents good value in re-draft leagues, even though a top 10 season would be surprising given the apparent re-found emphasis on the running attack.
Time & Date of this Update (PST): 22:22 on Sat Sept 4 2004
News: Defensive success dependant on young secondary
Fantasy Football Slant:
The re-hiring of Dick LeBeau promises a return of the attacking Steelers defense prominent a few years ago. In order to fulfill this promise, a young defensive backfield needs to progress in a hurry. Chris Hope (3rd year) and Troy Polamalu (last year's first round pick) will be the starting safeties while Ike Taylor (2nd year) and Ricardo Colclough (rookie) are the backup corners and will be prominent in nickel and dime defenses. All of the above mentioned DBs are long on speed and talent while being short on experience; therefore expect the defense to make some youthful mistakes, especially in the beginning of the year. However, this defense could become a force as the season progresses and may be available on many fantasy waiver wires. Also, for IDP leagues, the defensive backfield will be tested and have plenty of opportunities to defense passes and make interceptions.
PLEASE do NOT post to this thread! This thread is only to be appended to by Jeremy Miller.
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11/20/04 - Buckeyes salvage season by stomping that team from up north. (Posted 11/14/04)
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