Fanball Fantasy Football News - Newsbreakers

Holt pulls disappearing act

Sun, 07 Sep 2008 17:31:24 CDT

The News
Perennial all Pro receiver Torry Holt struggled against the Eagles posting one lone reception for nine yards in the season opening loss.

Our View
Despite playing from behind all day long, the Rams couldn't generate any offense against Philadelphia. Don't go into panic mode on Holt, who is a veteran with a proven track record of excellence.

Jackson struggles in season opener

Sun, 07 Sep 2008 17:20:21 CDT

The News
Newly paid running back Steven Jackson carried the football 14 times for 40 yards and chipped in three receptions for 34 yards in the loss to the Eagles.

Our View
Jackson, who looked rusty following a 27 day holdout, averaged only 2.8 yards per tote. Things don't get much easier next week when the Rams host the world champion New York Giants.

Young using crutches

Sun, 07 Sep 2008 17:08:59 CDT

The News
Vince Young was using crutches after Sunday's season opener against the Jaguars, the AP notes. The quarterback sprained his left knee. Young is due to undergo testing.

Our View
Using crutches doesn't necessarily mean the injury is serious, but legs injuries are generally bad news for a quarterback who moves around and runs as much as Young.

Croyle has separated shoulder

Sun, 07 Sep 2008 16:57:04 CDT

The News
Brodie Croyle suffered a separated right shoulder in Sunday's season opener, the Kansas City Star reports. The team has not said how long they expect him to be out. His arm was in a sling after the game.

Our View
If you recall, Eli Manning separated his right shoulder in the season opener last year. Reports initially said he'd miss a month, and he ended up suiting up in Week 2. In other words, we imagine it will take a day or three for the Chiefs to figure out how bad this injury is. Damon Huard stands to start if Croyle is out.

McMichael off to a good start

Sun, 07 Sep 2008 16:55:25 CDT

The News
Tight end Randy McMichael posted five receptions for 77 yards, and was the lone bright spot in the Rams 38-3 loss to Philadelphia in the season opener.

Our View
New offensive coordinator Al Saunders has a proven track record with tight ends, so keep an eye on McMichael, who is likely available on the waiver wire in some leagues.

Smith crosses the imaginary plane

Sun, 07 Sep 2008 16:51:38 CDT

The News
Tight end L.J. Smith got his 2008 campaign off on the right foot by catching five passes for 39 yards and a touchdown.

Our View
Smith had his 2007 campaign derailed by injuries, so it's nice to see him get off to a good start.

Baskett makes most of opportunities

Sun, 07 Sep 2008 16:47:49 CDT

The News
With starters Reggie Brown and Kevin Curtis unable to play due to injuries, wide receiver Hank Baskett stepped up to the plate and posted two receptions for 102 yards and a score in the season opener.

Our View
Baskett only had two receptions but he scored from 90 yards out on one of them, and will continue to provide value in the Eagles pass happy attack, as long as the frontline starters are sidelined.

Lewis passes the century mark

Sun, 07 Sep 2008 16:43:00 CDT

The News
Wide receiver Greg Lewis posted five catches for 102 yards in the season opening win over St. Louis.

Our View
You know the Eagles passing offense was hitting on all cylinders when Lewis passes the century mark.

Gates injures hip

Sun, 07 Sep 2008 16:40:05 CDT

The News
Antonio Gates left the season opener in the first half due to a bruised hip. He headed to the locker room but is expected to return.

Our View
Initial reports make this ailment sound minor, and we'll follow up when more information becomes available. He currently has two catches for 30 yards.

Jackson builds on preseason performance

Sun, 07 Sep 2008 16:37:11 CDT

The News
Rookie wide receiver DeSean Jackson notched six catches for 106 yards in his professional debut against the Rams.

Our View
Jackson was the Eagles most explosive player during the preseason, and displayed more highlight reel plays today, including a 47-yard reception and a 60-yard punt return.