Three weeks in the books and the races for the playoff spots have officially begun. C-Springs Asphalt Walri and Harry Brown Bush's Aroma remain undefeated at 3-0, and both have scoring averages over 100 points per game. The bottom feeders, Durangatang Monkey Squirt and Boco's Ballin' Army, had a battle that left only one in the winless column. Boco's Ballin Army is suffering through the reality that his top scorers are kickers and D/ST, with which only one of each is startable.
More casualties on the injury front for a number of teams. L.A. Patriots now lost his second bigtime receiver, and this time it's for the season. Kenny Britt has been placed on the injured reserve, and will not see any more action this year. The Patriots will be required to lean on a redefined Plaxico Burress if they decide to play two wide receivers. Cape May Scallops did not have the services of his second running back, Peyton Hillis. It appears he will return for a week 4 matchup with Boats N Hoes, where he is an early 21-point underdog.
The early week spreads have been released and the smallest margin is Big Swingin' D over Boco's Ballin Army by 4.7 points. Big Swingin D' is led by the league leader in points, Tom Brady. Boco is led by Chad Henne (what? yeah, Chad Henne). Another interesting match-up comes between Kennesaw Kannons and Durangatang Monkey Squirts. These two teams battled for number one draft pick in 2011 and are determined to show that they are on the right track. Finally, we see Asphalt Walri hopefully for less of a nail-biter against Stone Testies. Last season these two battled to a 2.1 point differential with Walri coming out on top. If Testies expects to make the playoffs this year, this could be a key win to proving he belongs.
It should not go without mention that certain teams have not made it onto my radar yet this year. This is mainly due to a lack of anything spectacular, either positive or negative. There are a high number of teams floating in the middle of the league, at 2-1 or 1-2, that have yet to make a statement. The season is showing us the parity that exists in a 14-team league, and the powerful notion that any team can make it happen when it counts. I'm looking forward to covering this league throughout 2011 and hopefully into the future.
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
Week 2 News and Notes
It's hard to say that things are beginning to sort themselves out, but with two weeks in the books the losers are becoming more apparent. Boco's Ballin' Army is following up a playoff season with a dismal 0-2 start. Durangatang Monkey Squirt is picking up right where he left off by losing their first two as well. With that said, these two teams have also seen an inordinate amount of points scored against them as well (DMS 218 and BBA 190). These two teams go head to head next week, so one of them will be falsely, and temporarily, complimented with a win.
On the flip side, there are two teams that have not suffered a loss in either week, Harry Brown Bush's Aroma and C-Springs Asphalt Walri. Both averaging over 105 points per game, these potent teams are proving to be a factor early in 2011. Harry Brown is being led by Calvin Johnson and healthy Ryan Matthews while Asphalt Walri is led by Matthew Stafford and Daren McFadden.
Injuries have taken a toll on several teams, including defending champion Big Swingin' D, whom has had little to no production from his league-winning running bcak Arian Foster. Boco's Ballin' Army saw their star running back, Jamaal Charles end his season with an ACL tear. Boats N' Hoes starting qaurterback Peyton Manning will likely see no action in 2011, leaving them with backup Rex Grossman to carry the load. L.A. Patriots had an enormous week from Miles Austin (32 points) before losing him to an injury that could sideline him for many weeks. He will be counting on Kenny Britt and Dwayne Bowe to take him forward for the time being.
Week three offers a few intriguing match-ups that you would be wise to keep an eye on. First, the Asphalt Walri will be taking on the Lone Star Super Squirrels. Last season the point differential only favored Walri by a measly 5.1 points. This should be a battle all the way through Monday night. Similarly, Yo Bitches will be trying to recreate the magic that was a 4.5 point victory over L.A. Patriots last season.
On the flip side, there are two teams that have not suffered a loss in either week, Harry Brown Bush's Aroma and C-Springs Asphalt Walri. Both averaging over 105 points per game, these potent teams are proving to be a factor early in 2011. Harry Brown is being led by Calvin Johnson and healthy Ryan Matthews while Asphalt Walri is led by Matthew Stafford and Daren McFadden.
Injuries have taken a toll on several teams, including defending champion Big Swingin' D, whom has had little to no production from his league-winning running bcak Arian Foster. Boco's Ballin' Army saw their star running back, Jamaal Charles end his season with an ACL tear. Boats N' Hoes starting qaurterback Peyton Manning will likely see no action in 2011, leaving them with backup Rex Grossman to carry the load. L.A. Patriots had an enormous week from Miles Austin (32 points) before losing him to an injury that could sideline him for many weeks. He will be counting on Kenny Britt and Dwayne Bowe to take him forward for the time being.
Week three offers a few intriguing match-ups that you would be wise to keep an eye on. First, the Asphalt Walri will be taking on the Lone Star Super Squirrels. Last season the point differential only favored Walri by a measly 5.1 points. This should be a battle all the way through Monday night. Similarly, Yo Bitches will be trying to recreate the magic that was a 4.5 point victory over L.A. Patriots last season.
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
Week 1 News and Notes
Week one is in the books, and it was very apparent that there is a new season upon us. The first point deduction penalty in league history was administered this weekend by commissioner Haven Barnes. Boats N' Hoes lost point from three players, including Greg Jennings, John Kuhn, and Rob Bironas. This will certainly bring about changes for next season. I can just hear the off-season meetings now!
Half of the playoff teams from last year, took a loss in week one. LA Patriots, Boat's N Hoes, and Boco's Ballin' Army all suffered defeats, with the latter scoring the least number of points in the league.
Led by an unexpected 29.5 point performance by Steve Smith, Cape May Scallops picked up where he left off a year ago by scoring a league-leading 101.3 total points.
The most shocking victory of the week was Kennesaw Kannon's victory behind a strong performance from Bears D/ST (21 points).
The top player this week was Big Swingin' D's Tom Brady that saved his team from a sure loss after losing Arian Foster earlier in the week.
The top performing player on a bench was Boco Ballin' Army's Chad Henne who put up an astonishing 34.1 points in what was likely his best fantasy game ever.
The top free agent performance came from Rex Grossman who scored 18.2 points.
The most disappointing starter was Shenanigans' Miami D/ST with a dismal -7 points. In regards to individual players, excluding the four kickers that finished with zero points, it must have been Boco Ballin' Army's Chad Ochocinco with 1 point. Even with an offensive explosion from his counterparts, Ochocinco seemed to be left alone with his HOF jacket and blushing cheeleader.
Season-ending injuries to K Nate Kaeding (BBA), WR Marcus Easley (CMS), RB Rashad Jennings (CMS), TE Bo Scaife (DMS), RB Brandon Jackson (LSS), TE John Carlson (SNG), RB Ryan Williams (TBS), RB Mikel LeShoure (STS), TE Tony Moeaki (STS), WR David Gettis (YBS), and RB Baron Batch (BNH)
Half of the playoff teams from last year, took a loss in week one. LA Patriots, Boat's N Hoes, and Boco's Ballin' Army all suffered defeats, with the latter scoring the least number of points in the league.
Led by an unexpected 29.5 point performance by Steve Smith, Cape May Scallops picked up where he left off a year ago by scoring a league-leading 101.3 total points.
The most shocking victory of the week was Kennesaw Kannon's victory behind a strong performance from Bears D/ST (21 points).
The top player this week was Big Swingin' D's Tom Brady that saved his team from a sure loss after losing Arian Foster earlier in the week.
The top performing player on a bench was Boco Ballin' Army's Chad Henne who put up an astonishing 34.1 points in what was likely his best fantasy game ever.
The top free agent performance came from Rex Grossman who scored 18.2 points.
The most disappointing starter was Shenanigans' Miami D/ST with a dismal -7 points. In regards to individual players, excluding the four kickers that finished with zero points, it must have been Boco Ballin' Army's Chad Ochocinco with 1 point. Even with an offensive explosion from his counterparts, Ochocinco seemed to be left alone with his HOF jacket and blushing cheeleader.
Season-ending injuries to K Nate Kaeding (BBA), WR Marcus Easley (CMS), RB Rashad Jennings (CMS), TE Bo Scaife (DMS), RB Brandon Jackson (LSS), TE John Carlson (SNG), RB Ryan Williams (TBS), RB Mikel LeShoure (STS), TE Tony Moeaki (STS), WR David Gettis (YBS), and RB Baron Batch (BNH)
Monday, July 25, 2011
2011 Egofest Schedule Released
The 2011 Egofest Dynasty weekly schedule has been released by the Egofest Dynasty Fantasy Football League (EDFFL) front office. The league continues to match each team against every other team once per season. There are several intriguing competitions throughout the season, but you don’t have to look far to find the first match-ups of significance. Week one gives us two key match-ups. First is a rematch of the third place playoff game from 2010 between L.A. Patriots and Harry Brown Bush’s Aroma. Owner of HBBA, Dave Kuendig, continues to poke the eye of all conservative and prude EDFFL fans with his sensually disturbing team name, while L.A. Patriots’ Glenn Allen has made all sports writers put two periods in his team name since the old ESPN-hosted leagues. This should be a match-up of not only stubbornness, but also set one of these owners on the path to play for the coveted 3rd place finish once again.
The second match-up in week one that may spike the ears of Egofest fans is the Lone Star Super Squirrels vs. Stone Testies. Both of these teams fought for pure, unadulterated mediocrity last season, but are both looking for major improvements this year, and possible playoff runs. Alright, I know you’re thinking, “Nevah, you must be joking. These owners couldn’t draft their way out of a wet tissue!” But I think you might be surprised in the will of both owners to make a run for playoff glory. Stone Testies’ owner John Maxwell Boot (or “Max” as he is better known) told Egofest Dynasty News, “I think all of my players are the best in the league, they just need to prove to someone other than me.”
Week four also give us another double whammy of key match-ups that should grab the attention of even the most indifferent EDFFL viewer. First we scrape the bottom of the 2010 barrel as we watch the last-place finishing Durangatang Monkey Squirts take on the second-to-last-place finishing Kennesaw Kannons. This battle will give one of these owners the right to say, “at least I didn’t lose to THAT guy”. After selecting big-name rookie wide receivers A.J. Green and Julio Jones in the 2011 draft, owners Branden Rakita and Anthony Forshier are hoping to score 10-15 more points per season than a year ago.
The second important contest in week four is the battle between BOCO’s Ballin’ Army and Big Swingin’ D. BOCO owner Cameron Dye told Egofest Dynasty News reporter Many Cummings, “it was painful to finish last year’s regular season only one spot behind Big Swingin’ D, and then watch him go on to win the championship. Meanwhile we had to settle for sixth, which sounds extremely unimpressive when I say it out loud.” Big Swingin’ D’s owner Ryan Coward was reached for comment and responded, “what’s Egofest Dynasty?”
Is it painful to miss the playoffs by a single point? Ask Tube Socks owner Haven Barnes and he’ll tell you. In their head-to-head matchup last season, L.A. Patriots and Tube Socks played until late Monday night when the New York Giants were battling the Dallas Cowboys until late in the game. L.A.Patriots RB Ahmad Bradshaw’s duty was to run down the clock with mere seconds to spare, Tube Socks holding a slim one-point lead. Bradshaw’s final carry with under :10 on the clock was a 19-yard scamper, earning L.A. Patriots two points and the corresponding win. To add injury to the insult, Tube Sock’s QB Tony Romo had his season ended early in the game with a broken clavicle. The rematch will take place this year in week seven. Expect years of defeat-laden frustration to be taken to the field on the part of Socks.
There are two teams that make moves on moves to get players and build their franchises. C-Springs Asphalt Walri and (whom last time I checked actually despises asphalt. He’s more of a dirt guy) and Shenanigans. Many-an-owner received calls, texts, and e-mails from these two teams during the 2011 rookie draft, and I’m sure they will not be the last of this season. Asphalt Walri had 13 trade proposals during the draft period, and may have made some solid moves for a young, talented team. He may have also made himself look desperate and effectively removed all intimidation from his lineup for the next three seasons; it’s hard to tell right now. In any event, these two will battle for the title of “Who Did the Most Work For the Smallest Payoff?” in week seven. The loser can expect to have a similar route through the 2012 draft, and the winner can bank on an improving team for years to come.
The middle of the pack in the Egofest Dynasty is laced heavily with the young and the old. In week 10, two teams that epitomize both of these extremes will play for a possible playoff position. Yo Bitches, the young and talented (owner-expressed optimism) team owned by Sean Wendt, will take on the aging crew from Boats N’ Hoes. Both of these teams finished with a record of 7-6, however Boats made the playoffs and Bitches did not. The 138 points overall (8.1 points per game) disparity made the difference over the 13-game season. However, when questioned about the 2011 roster Boats N’ Hoes owner Nick Jenkins said, “we may be getting a little long in the tooth, but we still have a mean bite.” In response to this claim, Sean Wendt retorted, “does anyone want to trade me a D/ST?”
Finally, we find ourselves one week from the final regular-season games with a rematch of last year’s championship, Big Swingin’ D against Cape May Scallops. Scallops owner Mike Barnes told me in an interview at the EDFFL CBA talks last week, “our goal is to be the only team that makes the playoffs every year that Egofest exists”. Anyone that knows fantasy football knows this is a virtual impossibility, but that doesn’t seem to faze Barnes. Big Swingin’ D is coming off the most improbable of fantasy seasons by finishing the regular season on a 5-1 run and then plowing through the #1 and #2 seeds to claim the championship. In this dream rematch we’ll see which... well, actually we’ll probably already have a good idea who’s in and who’s out by week 12, but anyway… could mean something.
The second match-up in week one that may spike the ears of Egofest fans is the Lone Star Super Squirrels vs. Stone Testies. Both of these teams fought for pure, unadulterated mediocrity last season, but are both looking for major improvements this year, and possible playoff runs. Alright, I know you’re thinking, “Nevah, you must be joking. These owners couldn’t draft their way out of a wet tissue!” But I think you might be surprised in the will of both owners to make a run for playoff glory. Stone Testies’ owner John Maxwell Boot (or “Max” as he is better known) told Egofest Dynasty News, “I think all of my players are the best in the league, they just need to prove to someone other than me.”
Week four also give us another double whammy of key match-ups that should grab the attention of even the most indifferent EDFFL viewer. First we scrape the bottom of the 2010 barrel as we watch the last-place finishing Durangatang Monkey Squirts take on the second-to-last-place finishing Kennesaw Kannons. This battle will give one of these owners the right to say, “at least I didn’t lose to THAT guy”. After selecting big-name rookie wide receivers A.J. Green and Julio Jones in the 2011 draft, owners Branden Rakita and Anthony Forshier are hoping to score 10-15 more points per season than a year ago.
The second important contest in week four is the battle between BOCO’s Ballin’ Army and Big Swingin’ D. BOCO owner Cameron Dye told Egofest Dynasty News reporter Many Cummings, “it was painful to finish last year’s regular season only one spot behind Big Swingin’ D, and then watch him go on to win the championship. Meanwhile we had to settle for sixth, which sounds extremely unimpressive when I say it out loud.” Big Swingin’ D’s owner Ryan Coward was reached for comment and responded, “what’s Egofest Dynasty?”
Is it painful to miss the playoffs by a single point? Ask Tube Socks owner Haven Barnes and he’ll tell you. In their head-to-head matchup last season, L.A. Patriots and Tube Socks played until late Monday night when the New York Giants were battling the Dallas Cowboys until late in the game. L.A.Patriots RB Ahmad Bradshaw’s duty was to run down the clock with mere seconds to spare, Tube Socks holding a slim one-point lead. Bradshaw’s final carry with under :10 on the clock was a 19-yard scamper, earning L.A. Patriots two points and the corresponding win. To add injury to the insult, Tube Sock’s QB Tony Romo had his season ended early in the game with a broken clavicle. The rematch will take place this year in week seven. Expect years of defeat-laden frustration to be taken to the field on the part of Socks.
There are two teams that make moves on moves to get players and build their franchises. C-Springs Asphalt Walri and (whom last time I checked actually despises asphalt. He’s more of a dirt guy) and Shenanigans. Many-an-owner received calls, texts, and e-mails from these two teams during the 2011 rookie draft, and I’m sure they will not be the last of this season. Asphalt Walri had 13 trade proposals during the draft period, and may have made some solid moves for a young, talented team. He may have also made himself look desperate and effectively removed all intimidation from his lineup for the next three seasons; it’s hard to tell right now. In any event, these two will battle for the title of “Who Did the Most Work For the Smallest Payoff?” in week seven. The loser can expect to have a similar route through the 2012 draft, and the winner can bank on an improving team for years to come.
The middle of the pack in the Egofest Dynasty is laced heavily with the young and the old. In week 10, two teams that epitomize both of these extremes will play for a possible playoff position. Yo Bitches, the young and talented (owner-expressed optimism) team owned by Sean Wendt, will take on the aging crew from Boats N’ Hoes. Both of these teams finished with a record of 7-6, however Boats made the playoffs and Bitches did not. The 138 points overall (8.1 points per game) disparity made the difference over the 13-game season. However, when questioned about the 2011 roster Boats N’ Hoes owner Nick Jenkins said, “we may be getting a little long in the tooth, but we still have a mean bite.” In response to this claim, Sean Wendt retorted, “does anyone want to trade me a D/ST?”
Finally, we find ourselves one week from the final regular-season games with a rematch of last year’s championship, Big Swingin’ D against Cape May Scallops. Scallops owner Mike Barnes told me in an interview at the EDFFL CBA talks last week, “our goal is to be the only team that makes the playoffs every year that Egofest exists”. Anyone that knows fantasy football knows this is a virtual impossibility, but that doesn’t seem to faze Barnes. Big Swingin’ D is coming off the most improbable of fantasy seasons by finishing the regular season on a 5-1 run and then plowing through the #1 and #2 seeds to claim the championship. In this dream rematch we’ll see which... well, actually we’ll probably already have a good idea who’s in and who’s out by week 12, but anyway… could mean something.
Friday, July 1, 2011
Give 'Em Reason To Worry, Eh?
As the NFL lockout surpasses it’s 100th day, the longest in NFL history, there are many factors that could come into play for the Egofest Dynasty teams this year. In the following article I will go through the four (with two sub-sections included) that I find most intriguing, and potentially fate-changing, for some of Egofest’s owners.
1. According to Eli Manning of the Kennesaw Kannons was interviewed by Dan Patrick of ESPN and said he had been working out with rookie wideout Julio Jones. In these workouts, Manning was instructing Jones on specific patterns and techniques that suited Eli’s delivery and timing. After 10 minutes of expert instruction from a Super Bowl Champion quarterback, Jones asked, “could we go back to where I line up?” When the lockout comes to an end, I’m assuming in the next two weeks, this will be the recurring problem with rookies and newcomers that have yet to receive their playbooks. Normally at this time of year the incoming rookies have been studying playbooks, attending OTAs, and receiving individual coaching for more than 30 days. By the time the lockout ends, these players will have lost approximately 45 days of valuable experience. At some point we may need to be realistic and call this a “redshirt” year for this rookie class. Generally this does not apply to rookie running backs (“here’s the ball, find the hole”) so you can still hold on to hope there. However, if a team has drafted a rookie quarterback or wide receiver and expects them to contribute this year, it might be a waiting game, eh?
2. This brings us to our second group that will be affected by wasted time, the soon-to-be free agents. Owners will surely be watching in hopes that their top point-scorers aren’t put on the shelf, knocked out of favor, or replaced. Players like Boats N' Hoes' Terell Owens, Asphalt Walri's Vincent Jackson, Kennesaw Kannon's Randy Moss, Tube Socks' Ronnie Brown, Big Swingin' D's Matt Hasselback, Boco's Ballin' Army's Cedric Benson, and Lone Star Super Squirrels' Braylon Edwards (just to name a few) all need homes for the 2011 season. While we can assume that some of these stars will return to their previous teams, it is not certain they will continue to have the same impact as they once did. Although the same could be said for them finding a new team, eh?
2a. In regards to free agency, Egofest owners should not be sure their star will be resigned by their current teams. Many free-agents enter the market as RESTRICTED free agents, meaning the current team has the right to counter any offer made by a pursuant team. However, the current proposed collective bargaining agreement (CBA) has a portion in it that would make all veteran (4+ years of experience) free agents UNRESTRICTED. This means offers can be made and accepted without any regard for the previous team’s desires. I suppose this is coming from the NFLPA’s side of the argument, eh?
2b. The salary cap is due to increase, which sounds like a great deal for teams looking to sign high-caliber free agents, right? The answer is: Kind of. High revenue teams, such as Dallas, Green Bay, and Oakland will be able to do so as they have more money to pay what is coming down the pike (much debated on whether this phrase is “pike” or “pipe”, so take your pick) as greater retired player benefits. The CBA will certainly include a sweeter retirement package for players, ultimately hurting lower-revenue teams like Cincinnati, Detroit, and Buffalo. Egofest owners thinking their free agent star will land on a team where they are the top flea on a dead dog (big fish in a little pond? Take your pick), can think again, eh?
3. After a post-season vote to assure all kick and punt return touchdowns counted six points for the individual player, the NFL has decided to take that away. A new rule passed, with nothing to do with the upcoming CBA, moving an un-penalized kickoff to the 35 yard line, instead of the 30. This could move the 25% of kickoffs resulting in touchbacks to nearly 50%, eliminating possible kickoff return touchdowns. I can almost feel Big Swingin’ D (Jacoby Ford), Kennesaw Kannons (Brandon Tate), and Cape May Scallops (Leon Washington) twisting their team towels with rage as they read. Guess they can hope for punts returns, eh?
4. Finally, the current CBA proposal will eliminate the possibility of the NFL adding two regular-season games to the schedule, which has it’s positives and negatives for Egofest owners. While on one hand star players won’t take as many shots and consequently maintain their health (hopefully) throughout the season, the men of men (scientifically named: Masculine Figures With Low Injury Rates) will not be able to score 15 points/week over this time period. Ultimately, Egofest owners will not be forced to change their drafting strategies to accommodate an 18-game schedule in which LA Patriots’ Michael Vick would never survive, eh?
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
Roster Cuts and Trophies
Although the NFL just had a court ruling stating the lockout will remain in place until at least the hearings restart on June 3rd, Egofest Dynasty has had some roster cuts over the past week, I presume to make room for the new rookie class.
Boco's Ballin' Army released Troy Smith QB (SFO) and Randy McMichael TE (SD). Shenanigans let go of two Miami QBs in Chad Pennington and Tyler Thigpen. He also cut another QB in Rusty Smith (TEN). C-Springs Asphalt Walri cut Matt Flynn QB (GB) Buster Davis WR (SD), Laurent Robinson WR (STL), and Daniel Fells TE (STL). Finally, Yo Bitches released Max Hall QB (ARI), one-hit-wonders Steve Slaton RB (HOU) and LenDale White RB (DEN), and Donald Jones WR (BUF).
These cuts probably don't mean much for the future of the teams involved, but expect more cuts from the league over the next several months. Only Cape May Scallops, C-Springs Asphalt Walri, and Yo Bitches are compliant with the 26-players roster limit.
Full roster cuts are not required until kickoff of week 1, but there will be a need for additions and subtractions well before then.
In addition, it appears that Egofest Dynasty will be awarding digital trophies this year for the performances of each week. It is unclear a this point what trophies will be awarded, but in the past commissioner Haven Barnes has has such awards as the Shoulda, Coulda, Woulda, the Lowest Score, Highest Score, and Brian Bosworth Award. We are all looking forward to the announcement of this year's digital trophies.
Boco's Ballin' Army released Troy Smith QB (SFO) and Randy McMichael TE (SD). Shenanigans let go of two Miami QBs in Chad Pennington and Tyler Thigpen. He also cut another QB in Rusty Smith (TEN). C-Springs Asphalt Walri cut Matt Flynn QB (GB) Buster Davis WR (SD), Laurent Robinson WR (STL), and Daniel Fells TE (STL). Finally, Yo Bitches released Max Hall QB (ARI), one-hit-wonders Steve Slaton RB (HOU) and LenDale White RB (DEN), and Donald Jones WR (BUF).
These cuts probably don't mean much for the future of the teams involved, but expect more cuts from the league over the next several months. Only Cape May Scallops, C-Springs Asphalt Walri, and Yo Bitches are compliant with the 26-players roster limit.
Full roster cuts are not required until kickoff of week 1, but there will be a need for additions and subtractions well before then.
In addition, it appears that Egofest Dynasty will be awarding digital trophies this year for the performances of each week. It is unclear a this point what trophies will be awarded, but in the past commissioner Haven Barnes has has such awards as the Shoulda, Coulda, Woulda, the Lowest Score, Highest Score, and Brian Bosworth Award. We are all looking forward to the announcement of this year's digital trophies.
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
2011 Draft Report
Oh, the glimmer in their eyes. The hopes and dreams of victories abound flutter through their heads. They can almost see their team-colored confetti falling from the top of the stadium. The parades and front page headlines scroll through their imaginations. All the while, searching for the "steal", "hidden gem", and "diamond in the rough" amongst the looming possibility of a JaMarcus Russell-esque failure.
This off-season is a difficult one for owners due to a lack of free agency, but all 14 owners in the Egofest Dynasty competed in the 2011 Rookie Draft last week, with varying levels of success. Each owner has his own research techniques, or lack thereof it seems, when scouting potential draft picks. I don't dare assume who uses what style, but only time will tell how effective it might be. In this entry I will give my sleepers, busts, winners, and losers in this year's Egofest draft.
SLEEPERS
It's difficult to call a pick in the top 10 a "sleeper" but I'm going to do it anyway.... Shenanigans' selection of Daniel Thomas. Thomas could have been the overall #1 and I wouldn't have batted an eye. He is in a great position to start sooner rather than later with the possible free agency departure or Ricky Williams and Ronnie Brown. It appears that Chad Henne will be back under center for the Fins this season, so Brandon Marshall (barring he doesn't continue to get stabbed by his wives that are tired of being abused) and passing game could continue to be mediocre. Thomas will need some free agency help on the offensive line to be successful, but if Miami can give him that, we could see a star in the making.
A future star that was dropping on most draft boards, but has an unbelievable upside is Leonard Hankerson of Yo Bitches. Hankerson was a standout WR at the University of Miami and has the size and speed (6'3", 205lbs, and a 4.4 40 yard dash) to scare any DB in the NFL. He quietly had a senior season with 72 catches and 1,156 yards and 13 touchdowns in a conference with quality DBs that were focusing on him. Once the Redskins find their quarterback, Hankerson will be the main target.
A player that falls more into the category of "steal" than a "sleeper" is Titus Young of Stone Testies. He was selected with pick 3.06 and could have easily been a one of the first three or four receivers taken. In this draft he was the 12th receiver selected, and even went after his teammate at Boise State, Austin Pettis. Matthew Stafford will be glad to have a WR with such good hands and crisp route running. Although think he would have been a better fit in St. Louis, he will benefit from the attention paid to Calvin Johnson.
It's embarrassing to write this, but my final sleeper is Alex Henery of LA Patriots. Yes, folks, it's a kicker. He was the only kicker selected (not only in Egofest but in the NFL as well) and for good reason. He has an amazing leg and accuracy to boot (pun intended). Although David Akers was the #3 fantasy kicker last season, he is approaching his 14th year in the league and should start to see a decrease in achievable distance over the next several years. Henery will be on tap to dominate for the next decade and a half.
Honorable Mention: Jake Locker (Big Swingin' D), Colin Kaepernick (Boco's Ballin' Army), Da'Rel Scott (Big Swingin' D), and Evan Royster (Asphalt Walri)
BUSTS
Although things are beginning to look up for the NFL team that drafted him (Detroit), Mikel Leshoure does not look like an NFL-ready RB. Stone Testies may see something that I don't, but based on his selection of a kicker in the middle rounds of last season's draft (whom he ended up dropping), I doubt it. Leshoure is not a bruising back and only a 4.6 40-yard dash, in a year with 7 running backs under 4.5. In addition, he has been drafted by a team that had relative success last season with Jahvid Best, a player in his first year. Leshoure would have been a great pick in the 2.3 - 2.8 range, but 1.6 is entirely too high.
Small wide receivers on a team with diminishing talents, and an already young receiving core will not fair well. Jerrel Jernigan falls into this category for sure. Cape May Scallops reached for this pick with selection 1.13, his first of the draft. The 5'9" 185 lb. receiver from the Sun Belt Conference's Troy University is a great addition in the return game, but will not contribute enough in the receiving stats to make a difference for Scallops.
Fantasy players don't score points from the bench, and that's exactly where Ryan Mallett will be sitting for as many years as he remains in New England. Maybe this is a long-term project for Tube Socks, or maybe he's hoping for Mallett to be traded somewhere else, but this move was a risky one at 2.13. Mallett has all the physical tools, and was viewed by many as the top quarterback in the draft, but an attitude problem (and some might argue a lack of brain cells.... youtube his interviews) had him slipping on most team's big boards. Do we have a Ryan Leaf without the enormous contract?
Honorable Mention: Cam Newton (Harry Brown Bush's Aroma), Randall Cobb (Asphalt Walri), Andy Dalton (Shenanigans), and Shane Vereen (Boats 'n Hoes)
WINNERS
Boco's Ballin' Army: Already possessing a strong core of running backs, Boco went on an tear of wide receivers, obtaining some of the top names in this year's class. In addition, he filled a possible hole at tight end when Antonio Gates hangs them up in the next several years. He nabbed a quarterback that that has the size and skills to be successful (Kaepernick) in San Francisco.
C-Springs Asphalt Walri: Trading for several early picks can be a risky move, but Walri may just have pulled it off. Three running backs and two wide receivers that all performed well over their last couple of years in college, and have serious sleeper potential, can't hurt. My only concern is with the rookie wide receivers. The size of Cobb and the character issues of Little could catch up with these play-makers. It will be interesting to see how the roster cuts affect this young team.
Shenanigans: Taking two top-rated quarterbacks, Shenenigans may have given up the possibility to fill a large hole at the wide receiver position. However, the first round selection of my top running back prospect may have covered this possible gap. I can certainly see a rookie quarterback being on the trade block soon, in exchange for a wide receiver with some stats under his belt. Shenanigans could pull off an early season mega trade, so keep your eyes peeled for that.
Big Swingin' D: Defending champs, Big Swingin' D, took my top quarterback prospect in Jake Locker and then also made the call to draft a sleeper candidate in Da'Rel Scott with a late pick. I don't see Locker or Scott being a force in the first year or two, but a solid build for an already top franchise. If DJ Williams can pan out at tight end, and the Steelers remain a top-performing defense, we could see the beginning of a dynasty here.
LOSERS
Kennesaw Kannons: There is a large weakness in Kannon's squad at quarterback and this draft did not address that for them. I don't fault the first round selection of Julio Jones, because the need at WR was equally as great, but a second selection (which did not come until the 3rd round) of Dion Lewis was questionable. Lewis is looking to be back up for LeSean McCoy for a LONG time. McCoy was the #14 running back last year on an offense that has featured the position in the past, if you remember back to the days of Brain Westbrook. Michael Vick's improved passing skills have diminished the position a bit, leaving less of a need for a two RB system. Then, just to be sure the final selection was completely irrelevant, Kannons took another rookie RB in Philadelphia in Stanly Havili. I'll be interested to see how quickly some of those selection are cut.
Cape May Scallops: With only three selections in this year's draft, Scallops used them all on wide receivers. Although all three may be solid kick returners, none of them appear to be top-level wide receivers. Only one of the three is over 6'0" and 200 lbs, and he also happens to be the only one that went to a school with any football competition. With Austin Collie, Steve Smith, and Reggie Wayne on their way out in the next two years (or sooner if your last name is Collie), I'm not sure this need was filled. There is also a glaring need at quarterback, and every prospect but Newton was available with Scallops first selection, and the quality of WR taken in that spot is unjustified.
Durangatang Monkey Squirts: I really liked Squirts first overall selection as it filled a need and removed a future star WR. However, trading a second round selection away when a enormous running back problem looms, is ill-advised. Although running backs may have been trimmed down considerably at selection 2.01, Squirts could have selected one of several backs that can expect more points than Mike Hart, Jerious Norwood, or Fred Taylor. To take a tight end, in a year when the class was as weak as it gets, with a 3.01 is mind-shattering. Considering Luke Stocker (whom I consider the second best TE in the class) was available until selection 5.05, a waiting game might have been more effective.
L.A. Patriots: Coming off a solid season in 2010, Patriots best draft pick consisted of a kicker. Yes, Jon Baldwin in a talented athlete, and yes he will make plays for Patriots, but he needs to keep his head on straight. We've watched the prima donna WRs being pushed aside for the last few years and experts say Balwin is another T.O. or Randy Moss waiting to happen. I see a large need for a backup QB and a defense. Although a defense is off the table, a quarterback is not. We can all expect Vick to be injured at some point in 2011 and Shaun Hill or Joe Webb are not going to be the answer. Being at least two deep in RB and many deep in WR, we can expect Patriots to be making some off-season moves for a backup QB. I see a Shenanigans-L.A.Patriots whopper coming down the pike.
With new hope rising for all owners in the Egofest Dynasty, it will be an interesting year, assuming there is one. The rookie drafting skills will be tested, and the blockbuster trades could be plentiful. I know I'll be keeping my eyes glued to this top-notch league. Expect to hear my ramblings throughout the season, and feel free to comment on anything you see/hear/feel.
Nevah Senrab
Independent writer for the Egofest Dynasty
This off-season is a difficult one for owners due to a lack of free agency, but all 14 owners in the Egofest Dynasty competed in the 2011 Rookie Draft last week, with varying levels of success. Each owner has his own research techniques, or lack thereof it seems, when scouting potential draft picks. I don't dare assume who uses what style, but only time will tell how effective it might be. In this entry I will give my sleepers, busts, winners, and losers in this year's Egofest draft.
SLEEPERS
It's difficult to call a pick in the top 10 a "sleeper" but I'm going to do it anyway.... Shenanigans' selection of Daniel Thomas. Thomas could have been the overall #1 and I wouldn't have batted an eye. He is in a great position to start sooner rather than later with the possible free agency departure or Ricky Williams and Ronnie Brown. It appears that Chad Henne will be back under center for the Fins this season, so Brandon Marshall (barring he doesn't continue to get stabbed by his wives that are tired of being abused) and passing game could continue to be mediocre. Thomas will need some free agency help on the offensive line to be successful, but if Miami can give him that, we could see a star in the making.
A future star that was dropping on most draft boards, but has an unbelievable upside is Leonard Hankerson of Yo Bitches. Hankerson was a standout WR at the University of Miami and has the size and speed (6'3", 205lbs, and a 4.4 40 yard dash) to scare any DB in the NFL. He quietly had a senior season with 72 catches and 1,156 yards and 13 touchdowns in a conference with quality DBs that were focusing on him. Once the Redskins find their quarterback, Hankerson will be the main target.
A player that falls more into the category of "steal" than a "sleeper" is Titus Young of Stone Testies. He was selected with pick 3.06 and could have easily been a one of the first three or four receivers taken. In this draft he was the 12th receiver selected, and even went after his teammate at Boise State, Austin Pettis. Matthew Stafford will be glad to have a WR with such good hands and crisp route running. Although think he would have been a better fit in St. Louis, he will benefit from the attention paid to Calvin Johnson.
It's embarrassing to write this, but my final sleeper is Alex Henery of LA Patriots. Yes, folks, it's a kicker. He was the only kicker selected (not only in Egofest but in the NFL as well) and for good reason. He has an amazing leg and accuracy to boot (pun intended). Although David Akers was the #3 fantasy kicker last season, he is approaching his 14th year in the league and should start to see a decrease in achievable distance over the next several years. Henery will be on tap to dominate for the next decade and a half.
Honorable Mention: Jake Locker (Big Swingin' D), Colin Kaepernick (Boco's Ballin' Army), Da'Rel Scott (Big Swingin' D), and Evan Royster (Asphalt Walri)
BUSTS
Although things are beginning to look up for the NFL team that drafted him (Detroit), Mikel Leshoure does not look like an NFL-ready RB. Stone Testies may see something that I don't, but based on his selection of a kicker in the middle rounds of last season's draft (whom he ended up dropping), I doubt it. Leshoure is not a bruising back and only a 4.6 40-yard dash, in a year with 7 running backs under 4.5. In addition, he has been drafted by a team that had relative success last season with Jahvid Best, a player in his first year. Leshoure would have been a great pick in the 2.3 - 2.8 range, but 1.6 is entirely too high.
Small wide receivers on a team with diminishing talents, and an already young receiving core will not fair well. Jerrel Jernigan falls into this category for sure. Cape May Scallops reached for this pick with selection 1.13, his first of the draft. The 5'9" 185 lb. receiver from the Sun Belt Conference's Troy University is a great addition in the return game, but will not contribute enough in the receiving stats to make a difference for Scallops.
Fantasy players don't score points from the bench, and that's exactly where Ryan Mallett will be sitting for as many years as he remains in New England. Maybe this is a long-term project for Tube Socks, or maybe he's hoping for Mallett to be traded somewhere else, but this move was a risky one at 2.13. Mallett has all the physical tools, and was viewed by many as the top quarterback in the draft, but an attitude problem (and some might argue a lack of brain cells.... youtube his interviews) had him slipping on most team's big boards. Do we have a Ryan Leaf without the enormous contract?
Honorable Mention: Cam Newton (Harry Brown Bush's Aroma), Randall Cobb (Asphalt Walri), Andy Dalton (Shenanigans), and Shane Vereen (Boats 'n Hoes)
WINNERS
Boco's Ballin' Army: Already possessing a strong core of running backs, Boco went on an tear of wide receivers, obtaining some of the top names in this year's class. In addition, he filled a possible hole at tight end when Antonio Gates hangs them up in the next several years. He nabbed a quarterback that that has the size and skills to be successful (Kaepernick) in San Francisco.
C-Springs Asphalt Walri: Trading for several early picks can be a risky move, but Walri may just have pulled it off. Three running backs and two wide receivers that all performed well over their last couple of years in college, and have serious sleeper potential, can't hurt. My only concern is with the rookie wide receivers. The size of Cobb and the character issues of Little could catch up with these play-makers. It will be interesting to see how the roster cuts affect this young team.
Shenanigans: Taking two top-rated quarterbacks, Shenenigans may have given up the possibility to fill a large hole at the wide receiver position. However, the first round selection of my top running back prospect may have covered this possible gap. I can certainly see a rookie quarterback being on the trade block soon, in exchange for a wide receiver with some stats under his belt. Shenanigans could pull off an early season mega trade, so keep your eyes peeled for that.
Big Swingin' D: Defending champs, Big Swingin' D, took my top quarterback prospect in Jake Locker and then also made the call to draft a sleeper candidate in Da'Rel Scott with a late pick. I don't see Locker or Scott being a force in the first year or two, but a solid build for an already top franchise. If DJ Williams can pan out at tight end, and the Steelers remain a top-performing defense, we could see the beginning of a dynasty here.
LOSERS
Kennesaw Kannons: There is a large weakness in Kannon's squad at quarterback and this draft did not address that for them. I don't fault the first round selection of Julio Jones, because the need at WR was equally as great, but a second selection (which did not come until the 3rd round) of Dion Lewis was questionable. Lewis is looking to be back up for LeSean McCoy for a LONG time. McCoy was the #14 running back last year on an offense that has featured the position in the past, if you remember back to the days of Brain Westbrook. Michael Vick's improved passing skills have diminished the position a bit, leaving less of a need for a two RB system. Then, just to be sure the final selection was completely irrelevant, Kannons took another rookie RB in Philadelphia in Stanly Havili. I'll be interested to see how quickly some of those selection are cut.
Cape May Scallops: With only three selections in this year's draft, Scallops used them all on wide receivers. Although all three may be solid kick returners, none of them appear to be top-level wide receivers. Only one of the three is over 6'0" and 200 lbs, and he also happens to be the only one that went to a school with any football competition. With Austin Collie, Steve Smith, and Reggie Wayne on their way out in the next two years (or sooner if your last name is Collie), I'm not sure this need was filled. There is also a glaring need at quarterback, and every prospect but Newton was available with Scallops first selection, and the quality of WR taken in that spot is unjustified.
Durangatang Monkey Squirts: I really liked Squirts first overall selection as it filled a need and removed a future star WR. However, trading a second round selection away when a enormous running back problem looms, is ill-advised. Although running backs may have been trimmed down considerably at selection 2.01, Squirts could have selected one of several backs that can expect more points than Mike Hart, Jerious Norwood, or Fred Taylor. To take a tight end, in a year when the class was as weak as it gets, with a 3.01 is mind-shattering. Considering Luke Stocker (whom I consider the second best TE in the class) was available until selection 5.05, a waiting game might have been more effective.
L.A. Patriots: Coming off a solid season in 2010, Patriots best draft pick consisted of a kicker. Yes, Jon Baldwin in a talented athlete, and yes he will make plays for Patriots, but he needs to keep his head on straight. We've watched the prima donna WRs being pushed aside for the last few years and experts say Balwin is another T.O. or Randy Moss waiting to happen. I see a large need for a backup QB and a defense. Although a defense is off the table, a quarterback is not. We can all expect Vick to be injured at some point in 2011 and Shaun Hill or Joe Webb are not going to be the answer. Being at least two deep in RB and many deep in WR, we can expect Patriots to be making some off-season moves for a backup QB. I see a Shenanigans-L.A.Patriots whopper coming down the pike.
With new hope rising for all owners in the Egofest Dynasty, it will be an interesting year, assuming there is one. The rookie drafting skills will be tested, and the blockbuster trades could be plentiful. I know I'll be keeping my eyes glued to this top-notch league. Expect to hear my ramblings throughout the season, and feel free to comment on anything you see/hear/feel.
Nevah Senrab
Independent writer for the Egofest Dynasty
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