Sun 5/12 8:23 PMX
Footballguys.com
Raiders | Rookie RB Murray 'mirrors' McFadden[Footballguys.com: Sun 5/12 8:23 PM]
Raiders | Rookie RB Murray 'mirrors' McFadden
Source: Footballguys.com
CSNBayArea.com thinks rookie RB Latavius Murray (Central Florida) 'mirrors'
Darren McFadden's skill set. Murray will compete with veteran Rashad Jennings to be the primary backup behind
McFadden in 2013.
Our View: Our Cecil Lammey and Sigmund Bloom watched Murray during the week of practice for the Texas VS The Nation Game earlier this year in Allen, TX and came away impressed. He's a swift runner who reminds some in the scouting community or Demarco Murray (Cowboys) or Chris Brown (former Titans).
McFadden has never played more than 13 games in a regular season during his career. The backup RBs are likely to play at some point this year.
Sun 5/12 12:08 PMX
Roto Arcade
For those about to MOCK: Notable trends seen in early fantasy football drafts[Roto Arcade: Sun 5/12 12:08 PM]
For those about to MOCK: Notable trends seen in early fantasy football drafts
Source: Roto Arcade by Brad Evans
When Mr. Irrelevant, South Carolina tight end Justice Cunningham, had his name called in front of a small group of reasonably sauced lingerers at last month’s NFL Draft, Fantasyland’s finest quickly began formulating thoughts and assembling cheat sheets for this year’s fake football drafts.
Mock season officially kicked off …
Over the next several weeks, armchair quarterbacks of various backgrounds will hone their draft skills in preparation for main events come August. During these exercises, participants will tinker with new strategies, rack their brains over complicated backfields and shout out expletives when desired players are pilfered just before their pick, all the while proclaiming
Fri 5/3 10:39 AMX
Fantasy-Info.com
2013 Rookie Dynasty Drafts – RB Rankings[Fantasy-Info.com: Fri 5/3 10:39 AM]
2013 Rookie Dynasty Drafts – RB Rankings
Source: Fantasy-Info.com by Sean Douglas
Photo By: Jayne Kamin-Oncea / USA TODAY Sports
We don’t have a deep class of running backs this year, with starter upside. It’s probably a good idea to pass on running backs in the middle rounds of your draft if you should miss out on the first eight backs on this list.
Giovani Bernard, CIN (1st Round) -
Bernard had a hard upbringing as his mom passed away when he was a kid and he even lived with another family for a time, while his Dad went off to look for work.
I love this kid and his pass receiving skills will make him a start in PPR leagues. For now, he will have to play second fiddle to BenJarvus Green-Ellis, but expect the North Carolina star to take over the
Wed 5/1 10:54 PMX
Footballguys.com
Raiders | Latavius Murray known for stiff arm[Footballguys.com: Wed 5/1 10:54 PM]
Raiders | Latavius Murray known for stiff arm
Source: Footballguys.com
Oakland Raiders RB Latavius Murray will battle for a roster spot in training camp and the preseason, and he is viewed as one to watch since the team had injuries problems at the position a season ago. He said he thinks he runs like teammate RB
Darren McFadden, as well as Minnesota Vikings RB Adrian Peterson, and he uses his power and strength with an upright running style. Murray likes to embarrass defenders with his stiff-arm, or 'The Tave' arm, as his UCF teammates called it.
Wed 5/1 1:24 PMX
Roto Arcade
The Roto Arcade Fantasy Football Mock, RDs 3-4[Roto Arcade: Wed 5/1 1:24 PM]
The Roto Arcade Fantasy Football Mock, RDs 3-4
Source: Roto Arcade by Brad Evans
When Mr. Irrelevant, Justice Cunningham, had his name called Saturday, the fantasy football mock season officially got underway. To kick off Yahoo!'s festivities, we'll mock two rounds per day Tuesday-Friday (12-teams, PPR scoring) to help you get educated on which players will be valued/undervalued when the bulk of the draft season begins in August. Please declare a winner and/or express your general disdain for our 'stupidity' in the comments section below.
SEE ROUND 1 HERE
ROUND 3
Randall Cobb, WR,
Tue 4/30 10:08 AMX
Draft Sharks
Latavius Murray could push for backup job[Draft Sharks: Tue 4/30 10:08 AM]
Latavius Murray could push for backup job
Source: Draft Sharks
Central Florida HC George O'Leary told ESPN.com that Oakland got an "NFL-ready" talent when it drafted UCF RB Latavius Murray in Round 6. "They are getting a player that is good in just about everything he does," he said. "He can run. He knows blocking protections. He has really good hands of the backfield. He can help on special teams. They are getting a good player." In a wide-open, largely uninspiring class of RBs, Murray carries fantasy sleeper potential. His landing in Oakland helps. Behind the injury-prone Darren McFadden sits only Rashad Jennings, Marcel Reece and Taiwan Jones. Look to the 6'3, 224-pound Murray as an upside pick in the middle of your dynasty rookie draft. Murray capped his college career with 1,106 rushing yards,
Wed 4/24 4:08 PMX
The Huddle
Matt Flynn - Matt Flynn to work as Oakland's QB1[The Huddle: Wed 4/24 4:08 PM]
Matt Flynn - Matt Flynn to work as Oakland's QB1
Source: The Huddle
Oakland Raiders general manager Reggie McKenzie has named QB Matt Flynn the team's starting quarterback as offseason workouts are set to begin; however, he will continue to compete for the starting job.
Huddle Up: Terrelle Pryor is also expected to get a long look in Oakland, but they key will be which back can hand the ball ever-so-gently to Darren McFadden so as not to injure him. It's a competition that will barely register on the fantasy radar, though Oakland receivers would take a significant hit if Pryor wrests the starting gig from Flynn.
Tue 4/23 12:09 PMX
Draft Sharks
Darren McFadden excited about new scheme[Draft Sharks: Tue 4/23 12:09 PM]
Darren McFadden excited about new scheme
Source: Draft Sharks
Raiders RB Darren McFadden's struggles last year have been well documented. He averaged a career-worst 3.3 yards per carry. He had just 4 runs of 20+ yards after racking up 22 of those the previous 2 seasons. A zone-blocking scheme that had him running laterally before cutting upfield was mostly to blame. The Raiders are going back to a power scheme in 2013 under new OC Greg Olson. "It's a downhill offense," McFadden said. "That's one of the things I like about it. I'm the type of guy I like to get going downhill, so I'm looking forward to it. I think it's going to be a great fit for our team." McFadden was in a similar scheme in 2010 and 2011 when he popped off 5.3 yards per carry. He averaged 16.7 fantasy points per game
Mon 4/22 12:08 AMX
The Huddle
Darren McFadden - Raiders, McFadden not talking extension[The Huddle: Mon 4/22 12:08 AM]
Darren McFadden - Raiders, McFadden not talking extension
Source: The Huddle
Oakland Raiders RB
Darren McFadden said he has not talked with the team about a contract extension and is not sure when the two sides will talk.
McFadden is entering the final year of his current contract.
Huddle Up: Run-DMC has been more about potential than production in his 5 NFL seasons, missing at least 3 games each year and only recording a single 1,000-yard rushing season (1,157 in 2010). Like fantasy owners, the Silver & Black is going to need to see some more production in a contract year before making a long-term commitment.
Sat 4/20 12:38 PMX
Footballguys.com
Raiders | Not contract talks with Darren McFadden[Footballguys.com: Sat 4/20 12:38 PM]
Raiders | Not contract talks with Darren McFadden
Source: Footballguys.com
Oakland Raiders RB
Darren McFadden said he has not talked with the team about a contract extension and is not sure when the two sides will talk.
McFadden is entering the final year of his current contract.
Fri 4/12 10:08 PMX
Roto Arcade
The Fantasy Freak Show Podcast: Decoding Davis, believing in Brett and Billy Butler BBQ[Roto Arcade: Fri 4/12 10:08 PM]
The Fantasy Freak Show Podcast: Decoding Davis, believing in Brett and Billy Butler BBQ
Source: Roto Arcade by Brad Evans
To the dedicated fantasy player, it would seem Chris Davis was a thirty-something fighting to make his mark as a respected power-hitter. He's been hyped and re-hyped by pundits since he dropped 17 bombs in 295 at-bats as a rookie with the Rangers in 2008. But in reality, he's a 27-year-old who's just now entering his prime. Still, despite his roaring start, many fanatics remain skeptical about this long-term capabilities.
On this week's educational program, Brad Evans and Dalton Del Don decided whether owners should turn a profit or exercise patience with Davis. Our fearless forecasters also touched on Darren
Fri 4/12 7:38 PMX
Rotoworld Football Articles
What Went Wrong: What Went Wrong: McFadden[Rotoworld Football Articles: Fri 4/12 7:38 PM]
What Went Wrong: What Went Wrong: McFadden
Source: Rotoworld Football Articles
Patrick Daugherty examines why
Darren McFadden slumped to 3.3 yards per carry in 2012.
Fri 4/12 2:38 PMX
The Huddle
Rashad Jennings - Rashad Jennings agrees to terms with Raiders[The Huddle: Fri 4/12 2:38 PM]
Rashad Jennings - Rashad Jennings agrees to terms with Raiders
Source: The Huddle
Oakland Raiders RB Rashad Jennings received a one-year, $630,000 deal with a split salary.
Huddle Up: Jennings moves from backing up Maurice Jones-Drew to backing up Darren McFadden. Both situations provide opportunity; Jennings' recent performance suggest he's not especially capable of capitalizing.
Fri 4/12 12:08 PMX
Draft Sharks
Maurice Jones-Drew "full speed" by June[Draft Sharks: Fri 4/12 12:08 PM]
Maurice Jones-Drew "full speed" by June
Source: Draft Sharks
Jaguars RB Maurice Jones-Drew (Lisfranc) expects to be "full speed" by the end of May or early in June. That's the timetable he's been on all offseason. MJD shed his boot and started rehab in mid-March. He resumed jogging in early-April. Barring a setback, he'll be a full-go for training camp. He'll be one of the most important players for fantasy footballers to monitor this summer. A healthy Jones-Drew still carries tons of upside, but Darren McFadden reminded us last year how difficult it can be to return from a Lisfranc injury.
Fri 4/12 11:38 AMX
Roto Arcade
Freak Show Friday: Should Chris Davis owners turn a profit? Find out at 8 PM ET, 5 PM PT[Roto Arcade: Fri 4/12 11:38 AM]
Freak Show Friday: Should Chris Davis owners turn a profit? Find out at 8 PM ET, 5 PM PT
Source: Roto Arcade by Brad Evans
To the dedicated fantasy player, it would seem Chris Davis was a thirty-something fighting to make his mark as a respected power-hitter. He's been hyped and re-hyped by pundits since he dropped 17 bombs in 295 at-bats as a rookie with the Rangers in 2008. But in reality, he's a 27-year-old who's just now entering his prime. Still, despite his roaring start, many fanatics remain skeptical about this long-term capabilities.
On this week's educational program, Brad Evans and Dalton Del Don will decide whether owners should turn a profit or exercise patience with Davis. Our fearless forecasters will also touch on Darren McFadden's possible redemption this fall, Justin Upton's
Thu 4/11 9:24 PMX
Fantasy Football Toolbox
Raiders add backup RB Rashad Jennings[Fantasy Football Toolbox: Thu 4/11 9:24 PM]
Raiders add backup RB Rashad Jennings
Source: Fantasy Football Toolbox
Raiders fans have a new name to know for that inevitable time when
Darren McFadden gets injured. Oakland signed former Jaguars running back Rashad Jennings to a one-year deal on Wednesday. He has spent all of his four-year career acting as the backup to Maurice Jones-Drew. FANTASY ANALYSIS: Jennings is a good player, but he has been done in by serious injuries the past two seasons. A concussion finished him off last year, and he missed all of the 2011 season due to a torn ACL. But he's got good size and can catch. Marcel Reece, who really broke out over a month's time last season, is a very good receiver as well, but the Raiders would like to use him only on passing downs. Jennings will take over the role that once belonged to Mike
Thu 4/11 5:00 AMX
Draft Sharks
Rashad Jennings signs with Raiders[Draft Sharks: Thu 4/11 5:00 AM]
Rashad Jennings signs with Raiders
Source: Draft Sharks
The Raiders have signed RB Rashad Jennings. The former 7th-round pick averaged 5+ yards per carry in each of his first 2 NFL seasons. But he missed all of 2011 with a knee injury and then labored to a pitiful 2.8 yards-per-carry average this past year. Still just 28 years old, we like Jennings' chances of bouncing back this season as Darren McFadden's backup. He'll be worth considering late in fantasy drafts as a handcuff.
Mon 4/8 4:53 PMX
Roto Arcade
First Down: McFabulous days ahead for McFadden, sliding Gronk and football’s Neo Gio[Roto Arcade: Mon 4/8 4:53 PM]
First Down: McFabulous days ahead for McFadden, sliding Gronk and football’s Neo Gio
Source: Roto Arcade by Brad Evans
Owners who invested an exorbitant pick in china doll Darren McFadden last year are still sorely regretting it. Chucking hard inflatable balls at his dome, Mike Rice-style, would be an acceptable form of cathartic release.
When not sidelined for the 10 millionth time with a lower body ailment (last year a high-ankle sprain), the disappointing rusher appeared overly timid, lacked explosiveness and was generally terrible, an ill-fit for Greg Knapp’s zone-blocking scheme. Shockingly 82 of his 216 rushing attempts (37.9 percent) went for one, zero or negative yards. His overall yards per carry average (3.3) was the lowest of his career, by a wide margin. According to
Mon 4/8 12:53 AMX
Fantasy Football Toolbox
Raiders RB Darren McFadden is healthy, optimistic for 2013 season[Fantasy Football Toolbox: Mon 4/8 12:53 AM]
Raiders RB Darren McFadden is healthy, optimistic for 2013 season
Source: Fantasy Football Toolbox
Vic Tafur of the San Francisco Chronicle recently caught up with Raiders running back
Darren McFadden, who said he has fully recovered from his injury last season and is quot;back to the grind, getting ready for the 2013 season."
McFadden got hurt once again in 2012, missing four games due to a sprained ankle. But unlike previous years,
McFadden didn't make the games he did play in count with big performances. It was one of McFadden's worst as he averaged just 3.3 yards per carry and scored three touchdowns in 12 games. Part of the blame can be focused on the Raiders' running scheme.
McFadden has been a power-running back his entire career, and he had a tough time transitioning to Greg Knapp's zone-blocking scheme.
"I looked forward to
Sun 4/7 11:38 PMX
The Huddle
Darren McFadden - McFadden looking forward to new scheme[The Huddle: Sun 4/7 11:38 PM]
Darren McFadden - McFadden looking forward to new scheme
Source: The Huddle
Oakland Raiders RB
Darren McFadden said he is looking forward to the team's switch to a power blocking scheme in their running game. 'This is very exciting for me,'
McFadden said. 'I am the type of guy who likes to go downhill, make a cut and go; that's my thing. We'll mix it up like we used to, and get some zones in there, but for the most part, I will be keeping my shoulders toward the line of scrimmage.'
McFadden averaged 4.5 yards per carry his first four years when the team used a power-blocking scheme.
Huddle Up: McFadden exceeded his career average by playing in 12 games last season, but was limited to a career-low 3.3 yards per carry and scored only 3 total TDs. If he plays 12 or more games again in 2013, look for
Sun 4/7 2:23 PMX
Footballguys.com
Raiders | Open to new deal with Darren McFadden[Footballguys.com: Sun 4/7 2:23 PM]
Raiders | Open to new deal with Darren McFadden
Source: Footballguys.com
Oakland Raiders general manager Reggie McKenzie said the team is willing to discuss a new contract with RB
Darren McFadden before he becomes a free agent next offseason.
Sun 4/7 2:23 PMX
Footballguys.com
Raiders | Darren McFadden looking forward to new scheme[Footballguys.com: Sun 4/7 2:23 PM]
Raiders | Darren McFadden looking forward to new scheme
Source: Footballguys.com
Oakland Raiders RB
Darren McFadden said he is looking forward to the team's switch to a power blocking scheme in their running game. 'This is very exciting for me,'
McFadden said. 'I am the type of guy who likes to go downhill, make a cut and go; that's my thing. We'll mix it up like we used to, and get some zones in there, but for the most part, I will be keeping my shoulders toward the line of scrimmage.'
McFadden averaged 4.5 yards per carry his first four years when the team used a power blocking scheme.
Tue 4/2 2:09 PMX
Draft Sharks
Maurice Jones-Drew resumes "jogging lightly"[Draft Sharks: Tue 4/2 2:09 PM]
Maurice Jones-Drew resumes "jogging lightly"
Source: Draft Sharks
Jaguars RB Maurice Jones-Drew says he resumed "jogging lightly" this week. MJD's self-proclaimed timetable has him running full speed by May and being a full-go for June. It looks like he's still on track. We won't have a good idea of Jones-Drew's status until live game action though. Plenty of guys have struggled in returns from Lisfranc injuries, including Raiders RB Darren McFadden last year.
Tue 4/2 1:53 PMX
Roto Arcade
Rapid React: Water in desert, Fitz lands Palmer[Roto Arcade: Tue 4/2 1:53 PM]
Rapid React: Water in desert, Fitz lands Palmer
Source: Roto Arcade by Brad Evans
More times than not, divorces are not pretty. But after the extensive bickering, lawyer talk and concessions, sometimes beauty can emerge from the chaos.
Just ask Carson Palmer.
As reported by various outlets, including the Purple Palace’s own Michael Silver, the fractured relationship between the Raiders and the two-time Pro Bowler is beyond irreparable. The passer wants out, an identical feeling he expressed just three short years ago when held hostage by Mike Brown in Cincinnati. Assuming he gets his wish, which rumblings suggest
Mon 4/1 3:24 PMX
Roto Arcade
Rapid React: Water in desert, Fitz set to land Palmer[Roto Arcade: Mon 4/1 3:24 PM]
Rapid React: Water in desert, Fitz set to land Palmer
Source: Roto Arcade by Brad Evans
More times than not, divorces are not pretty. But after the extensive bickering, lawyer talk and concessions, sometimes beauty can emerge from the chaos.
Just ask Carson Palmer.
As reported by various outlets, including the Purple Palace’s own Michael Silver, the fractured relationship between the Raiders and the two-time Pro Bowler is beyond irreparable. The passer wants out, an identical feeling he expressed just three short years ago when held hostage by Mike Brown in Cincinnati. Assuming he gets his wish, which rumblings suggest will happen imminently, a red alert
Mon 4/1 2:38 PMX
Roto Arcade
Rapid React: Water in the desert, Fitz set to land Palmer[Roto Arcade: Mon 4/1 2:38 PM]
Rapid React: Water in the desert, Fitz set to land Palmer
Source: Roto Arcade by Brad Evans
More times than not, divorces are not pretty. But after the extensive bickering, lawyer talk and concessions, sometimes beauty can spring.
Just ask Carson Palmer.
As reported by various outlets, including the Purple Palace’s own Michael Silver, the fractured relationship between the Raiders and the two-time Pro Bowler is beyond irreparable. The passer wants out, an identical feeling he expressed just three short years ago when held hostage by Mike Brown in Cincinnati. Assuming he gets his wish, which rumblings suggest will happen imminently, a red alert will be issued
Wed 3/20 10:08 PMX
Fantasy Football Toolbox
Raiders crafting offense around RB Darren McFadden[Fantasy Football Toolbox: Wed 3/20 10:08 PM]
Raiders crafting offense around RB Darren McFadden
Source: Fantasy Football Toolbox
ESPN's AFC West blogger, Bill Williamson, wrote a post Wednesday entitled, quot;Should
Darren McFadden be traded." It presents McFadden's expiring contract, injury history and trade value as the team continues in rebuilding mode as reasons why it could happen. But it won't. The Raiders haven't hinted toward any such move, and why would they? As head coach Dennis Allen said, the Raiders recent offensive coaching hires were made with
McFadden in mind.
"[McFadden's] most effective years have been in downhill, power scheme," Allen said. "That's why Greg Olson and Tony Sparano are here."
FANTASY ANALYSIS: Olson, the offensive coordinator, and Sparano, the offensive line coach, have experience running a power scheme. You know by now that
Wed 3/20 11:08 AMX
The Huddle
Darren McFadden - Darren McFadden trade bait?[The Huddle: Wed 3/20 11:08 AM]
Darren McFadden - Darren McFadden trade bait?
Source: The Huddle
There has been speculation the Oakland Raiders could be interested in trading RB
Darren McFadden in order to acquire extra draft picks. The Raiders do not have a second or fifth-round pick in the NFL Draft. However,
McFadden is in the final year of his contract and he is often injured, so the team may not be able to receive a premium pick in return. The Raiders also have a thin backfield and may not be able to afford trading McFadden.
Huddle Up: The Raiders don't seem to be building their offense around McFadden, and his being in the last year of his contract--as well as the trade rumors--suggests they don't plan to. If something is to be done, expect it to happen before the draft so the Raiders can add picks and focus
Wed 3/20 10:53 AMX
Rotoworld Football
Raiders to build run scheme around McFadden - Darren McFadden | OAK[Rotoworld Football: Wed 3/20 10:53 AM]
Raiders to build run scheme around McFadden - Darren McFadden | OAK
Source: Rotoworld Football
Coach Dennis Allen confirmed that the Raiders will build their rushing offense around
Darren McFadden.
Wed 3/20 9:39 AMX
Rotoworld Football
Raiders will build run scheme around McFadden - Darren McFadden | OAK[Rotoworld Football: Wed 3/20 9:39 AM]
Raiders will build run scheme around McFadden - Darren McFadden | OAK
Source: Rotoworld Football
Coach Dennis Allen confirmed that the Raiders will build their rushing offense around
Darren McFadden.
Wed 3/20 8:38 AMX
Footballguys.com
Raiders | Darren McFadden trade bait?[Footballguys.com: Wed 3/20 8:38 AM]
Raiders | Darren McFadden trade bait?
Source: Footballguys.com
There has been speculation the Oakland Raiders could be interested in trading RB
Darren McFadden in order to acquire extra draft picks. The Raiders do not have a second or fifth-round pick in the NFL Draft. However,
McFadden is in the final year of his contract and he is often injured, so the team may not be able to receive a premium pick in return. The Raiders also have a thin backfield and may not be able to afford trading McFadden.
Sat 3/9 12:08 AMX
The Huddle
Carson Palmer - Carson Palmer could be released[The Huddle: Sat 3/9 12:08 AM]
Carson Palmer - Carson Palmer could be released
Source: The Huddle
The Oakland Raiders may release QB Carson Palmer this offseason if he does not agree to take a pay cut. The Raiders could go with QB Terrelle Pryor and a quarterback they select in the draft.
Huddle Up: Sans Palmer the Oakland receivers would lose what little fantasy value they had; in fact, until Pryor demonstrates the ability to operate an NFL offense the entire Raider offense would have dubious fantasy value. The silver lining might be Darren McFadden seeing more room to run in a read option.
Fri 2/22 5:38 PMX
The Huddle
Taiwan Jones - Taiwan Jones switching to cornerback[The Huddle: Fri 2/22 5:38 PM]
Taiwan Jones - Taiwan Jones switching to cornerback
Source: The Huddle
Oakland Raiders general manager Reggie McKenzie said he would like to see RB Taiwan Jones become a cornerback next season because he believes Jones has the skill set to play the position. McKenzie said it will not be easy for Jones to change positions but believes he will be able to make the change.
Huddle Up: This is a nice way of saying Jones isn't working out at running back. Of course, fantasy owners banking on him last season as the handcuff to Darren McFadden already had a pretty good idea of this.
Fri 2/15 10:08 PMX
Roto Arcade
The Fantasy Freak Show Podcast: Stephen Strasburg, bustin’ on Posey and a Jeter admission[Roto Arcade: Fri 2/15 10:08 PM]
The Fantasy Freak Show Podcast: Stephen Strasburg, bustin’ on Posey and a Jeter admission
Source: Roto Arcade by Brad Evans
Across the virtual universe, league commissioners are looking under rocks, digging holes in the snow and climbing peaks in an attempt to contact fellow owners. With Yahoo! Fantasy Baseball open for business, it's time to get the band back together.
On this week's enthralling program, Brad Evans and Dalton Del Don broke down overrated/underrated commodities in the AL East, reviewed happenings from one of the industry's biggest mixed league drafts (LABR), explained why gambling on Buster Posey in Round 1 is a dangerous game, discussed the possible rebirth of Michael Vick and Darren McFadden and, of course, answered your critical questions.
Too busy worrying about
Fri 2/15 10:19 AMX
Roto Arcade
Freak Show Friday: Streaking for spring at 8 PM ET, 5 PM PT[Roto Arcade: Fri 2/15 10:19 AM]
Freak Show Friday: Streaking for spring at 8 PM ET, 5 PM PT
Source: Roto Arcade by Brad Evans
Across the virtual universe, league commissioners are looking under rocks, digging holes in the snow and climbing peaks in an attempt to contact fellow owners. With Yahoo! Fantasy Baseball open for business, it's time to get the band back together.
On this week's enthralling program, Brad Evans and Dalton Del Don will break down overrated/underrated commodities in the AL East, review happenings from one of the industry's biggest mixed league drafts (LABR), explain why gambling on Buster Posey in Round 1 is a dangerous game, discuss the possible rebirth of Michael Vick and Darren McFadden and, of course, answer your critical questions.
Here's how YOU can join the
Thu 2/14 6:39 PMX
Fantasy Football Toolbox
Raiders' OC says he would like to use RB Marcel Reece on 3rd downs[Fantasy Football Toolbox: Thu 2/14 6:39 PM]
Raiders' OC says he would like to use RB Marcel Reece on 3rd downs
Source: Fantasy Football Toolbox
The change from Greg Knapp to Greg Olson as the Raiders' offensive coordinator is good news for running back
Darren McFadden. Whereas
McFadden struggled in Knapp's zone-blocking scheme, Olson is more of a power running guy, something that fits McFadden's skill set. Olson said Wednesday to reporters that he will feature
McFadden in the offense next season. But he also won't forget about Marcel Reece, who filled in when
McFadden went down with a foot injury during the middle of the year and gained more than 100 yards from scrimmage in three seperate games. Reece was a receiver in college who caught 52 passes in 2012. That ability makes him perfect for a third-down role, and Olson said there is quot;no question" he would like to use Reece as
Thu 2/14 2:08 PMX
Draft Sharks
Marcel Reece will stay involved in new offense[Draft Sharks: Thu 2/14 2:08 PM]
Marcel Reece will stay involved in new offense
Source: Draft Sharks
Raiders OC Greg Olson has gushed about RB Darren McFadden since taking the job back in mid-January. But he's also excited to work with RB/FB hybrid Marcel Reece. "He's got such a unique set of skills for a fullback," Olson said. "He's a college wide receiver. He'll present some matchup issues... To see him get out of the backfield and to spread out in some of the one-back sets and empty sets and look at the matchups you can get with him was exciting as well. He does have tremendous speed. He has very good hands. He has loose hips. He can run some of those option, choice routes that are matchup nightmares for defensive players." Olson mentioned Reece as a possibility on 3rd downs. Coming off a 52-catch season, Reece could be an
Thu 2/14 8:53 AMX
Rotoworld Football
New OC Olson will play to McFadden's strength - Darren McFadden | OAK[Rotoworld Football: Thu 2/14 8:53 AM]
New OC Olson will play to McFadden's strength - Darren McFadden | OAK
Source: Rotoworld Football
New OC Greg Olson confirmed that he will be highlighting
Darren McFadden.
Thu 2/14 7:53 AMX
Footballguys.com
Raiders | Darren McFadden in the wildcat?[Footballguys.com: Thu 2/14 7:53 AM]
Raiders | Darren McFadden in the wildcat?
Source: Footballguys.com
Oakland Raiders offensive line coach Tony Sparano said he is excited to work with RB
Darren McFadden. When Sparano was head coach of the Miami Dolphins, his quarterbacks coach was David Lee. Lee had been an offensive coordinator at Arkansas when
McFadden was running the wildcat package. 'They were running
McFadden and Felix (Jones) and that group of guys and doing some different things with them so, I don't want to say that word,' Sparano said of the Wildcat.
Thu 2/14 7:38 AMX
Footballguys.com
Raiders | Offense to feature playaction[Footballguys.com: Thu 2/14 7:38 AM]
Raiders | Offense to feature playaction
Source: Footballguys.com
Oakland Raiders offensive coordinator Greg Olson said he plans to run an attacking offense with a heavy emphasis on playaction, designed to get RB
Darren McFadden back on track. Olson also wants to feature FB Marcel Reece.
Sat 2/9 11:38 PMX
The Huddle
Darren McFadden - 2012 a low point for Darren McFadden[The Huddle: Sat 2/9 11:38 PM]
Darren McFadden - 2012 a low point for Darren McFadden
Source: The Huddle
Oakland Raiders RB
Darren McFadden averaged 3.3 yards a carry this past season, the fewest by a Raiders running back (minimum 150 carries) in franchise history.
Huddle Up: Not only was McFadden bad last year, he was historically bad. Oakland's return to a power blocking scheme should help McFadden get back on track, but he's burned a lot of bridges with fantasy owners.
Sat 2/9 7:38 PMX
The Huddle
Maurice Jones-Drew - Maurice Jones-Drew to run behind new scheme[The Huddle: Sat 2/9 7:38 PM]
Maurice Jones-Drew - Maurice Jones-Drew to run behind new scheme
Source: The Huddle
Jacksonville Jaguars RB Maurice Jones-Drew will be running behind a new blocking scheme this year. Offensive coordinator Jedd Fisch plans to install the zone blocking scheme which was popularized by Alex Gibbs when he was the Denver Broncos offensive line coach under then head coach Mike Shanahan. The scheme originally featured smaller, quicker linemen, but said bigger linemen can adjust to it and he believed the team has the personnel to make the transition work.
Huddle Up: The transition to zone blocking didn't exactly work out for Darren McFadden in Oakland, so there is certainly reason to be wary about Jones-Drew and the Jaguars. And if MoJo opts to hold out again, as Jacksonville doesn't seem interested in reworking
Sat 2/9 9:08 AMX
Footballguys.com
Raiders | 2012 a low point for Darren McFadden[Footballguys.com: Sat 2/9 9:08 AM]
Raiders | 2012 a low point for Darren McFadden
Source: Footballguys.com
Oakland Raiders RB
Darren McFadden averaged 3.3 yards a carry this past season, the fewest by a Raiders running back (minimum 150 carries) in franchise history.
Thu 2/7 2:23 PMX
Fantasy Football Toolbox
Jaguars will implement zone-blocking run offense[Fantasy Football Toolbox: Thu 2/7 2:23 PM]
Jaguars will implement zone-blocking run offense
Source: Fantasy Football Toolbox
Buried deep in a Wednesday article from Vito Stellino of the Florida Times-Union about what the Jaguars plan to do in the upcoming draft is this interesting tidbit: Offensive coordinator Jedd Fisch plans to install the zone-blocking scheme next season. It will be something new for running back Maurice Jones-Drew, who has never played in a zone-blocking offense during his seven pro seasons. FANTASY ANALYSIS: We pay more attention to such a development now after seeing how the change from a power run scheme to zone blocking affected Raiders running back
Darren McFadden this past season. Specifically, how much the new scheme led to a drop in his production. The Jaguars don't currently have enough of the quicker, smaller lineman who are best
Thu 2/7 12:08 PMX
Draft Sharks
Jacksonville Jaguars switching to zone run scheme[Draft Sharks: Thu 2/7 12:08 PM]
Jacksonville Jaguars switching to zone run scheme
Source: Draft Sharks
The Jaguars will switch from a power-blocking run scheme to a zone-blocking attack under new OC Jedd Fisch. We don't like the news for RB Maurice Jones-Drew. While MJD remains an elite talent who can succeed in any system, he's built to run in a power scheme. Plus, Jacksonville's offensive line isn't built for a zone-blocking system. We saw the impact this change can have this past season with Darren McFadden's struggles. Between this news and the foot surgery, MJD will be a risky pick in 2013 fantasy drafts.
Wed 2/6 7:53 PMX
Fantasy Football Toolbox
Giants cut RB Ahmad Bradshaw, open door for RB David Wilson[Fantasy Football Toolbox: Wed 2/6 7:53 PM]
Giants cut RB Ahmad Bradshaw, open door for RB David Wilson
Source: Fantasy Football Toolbox
The Giants have been perhaps the most active team in releasing players during this first week of the offseason. They have cut defensive players Michael Boley and Chris Canty. Offensive lineman David Diehl and Corey Webster could follow them out the door soon. But the most notable Giant who is now an ex-Giant is running back Ahmad Bradshaw. The team informed him of his release Wednesday. Bradshaw has spent all of his six NFL seasons with the Giants but has also become known for his repeated need for foot surgeries. He is currently recovering from another one on his right foot which was scheduled to replace and re-insert a screw that had been used to repair two previous fractures in his right foot. FANTASY ANALYSIS: The move saves the
Wed 2/6 3:08 PMX
The Huddle
Darrius Heyward-Bey - Darrius Heyward-Bey could be cut[The Huddle: Wed 2/6 3:08 PM]
Darrius Heyward-Bey - Darrius Heyward-Bey could be cut
Source: The Huddle
Oakland Raiders WR Darrius Heyward-Bey, due $7.7 million in 2013, is likely to be a salary cap casualty in the offseason.
Huddle Up: The Raiders are flush with young, speedy talent at the receiver position, making DHB expendable. Moreover, with Carson Palmer potentially a cap casualty as well and Terrelle Pryor in the mix to start, receivers may be less important in an offense centered around Darren McFadden and the ground game.
Thu 1/31 8:23 AMX
Footballguys.com
Raiders | Shonn Greene could be a fit[Footballguys.com: Thu 1/31 8:23 AM]
Raiders | Shonn Greene could be a fit
Source: Footballguys.com
New York Jets impending free-agent RB Shonn Greene could be a nice fit for the Oakland Raiders in the offseason if he can be signed at a reasonable cap hit. Greene is a bigger back that would form a nice tandem with RB
Darren McFadden. Greene also played for new Raiders offensive line coach Tony Sparano last season.
Thu 1/31 12:38 AMX
The Huddle
Steven Jackson - Raiders could show interest in Steven Jackson[The Huddle: Thu 1/31 12:38 AM]
Steven Jackson - Raiders could show interest in Steven Jackson
Source: The Huddle
The Oakland Raiders could show interest in St. Louis Rams RB Steven Jackson if he becomes a free agent this offseason.
Huddle Up: Wait, didn't we just hear the Raiders were going to build their offense around Darren McFadden? This would be kind of the opposite of that. Jackson would likely be the short-yardage member of that backfield committee, taking a significant bite out of McFadden's potential--almost as big a bite as his injury risk. Surely Steven can find other clubs in need of a goal line back--maybe even a team that occasionally reaches the goal line.
Sun 1/27 12:38 AMX
The Huddle
Dennis Allen - Raiders will try to scheme around McFadden[The Huddle: Sun 1/27 12:38 AM]
Dennis Allen - Raiders will try to scheme around McFadden
Source: The Huddle
Oakland Raiders head coach Dennis Allen said the team will spend the offseason looking at how to incorporate an offensive scheme around the talents of RB
Darren McFadden. "That's one of the things that we're going to look at when we get back to Oakland is we're really going to look at the things that
Darren McFadden does really well and we're going to try to ask him to do those things as much as possible, limit the times that we ask him to do some of the things that he may not be as good at,' Allen said. 'All of us as players have strengths and weaknesses, and we want to try to play to our best players' strengths as much as possible."
Huddle Up: To scheme around what McFadden truly does best, the Raiders will want to