[LordVodka]

If i were the Packers I would not announce that my qb has a slight tear. Maybe theyre using this to give the Cowboys false confidence.

[Wrigley]

you always liketogive false info mto the opponent

[Otters27]

Even if Rodgers is banged up I don't see how the Cowboys can go in there and win. Just too cold for Romo

[LT Profits]

GB - QB Aaron Rodgers limited in practice
Source: ESPN.com - Rob Demovsky
Updating a previous report, Green Bay Packers QB Aaron Rodgers (calf) was limited in practice Thursday, Jan. 8. Rodgers took about half of the reps in the team portion of practice.
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We still see Rodgers as one of the best options this week. Dallas' defense has been a lot better than expected, but his weapons (even with a gimpy leg) will be too much for them.
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CAR - Philly Brown limited during practice
Source: Panthers.com
Carolina Panthers WR Philly Brown (shoulder) was limited during practice Thursday, Jan. 8.
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Brown isn't likely to be a factor this week, so don't worry about him in your Daily Fantasy or Playoff leagues.
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GB - QB Aaron Rodgers has significant strain
Source: ESPN - Adam Schefter
Green Bay Packers QB Aaron Rodgers (calf) has a slight tear and a significantly strained muscle in his calf, according to sources. However, he's still expected to play against the Dallas Cowboys in the divisional round Sunday, Jan. 11, but it could impact how mobile he is on the field. “There’s no question he will play, but there’s also no question he will not be 100 percent,” said one doctor familiar with the injury. “The question is whether he’ll be 95 percent or 50 percent.” The team is aggressively treating the injury, and it's uncertain how active he'll be in practice the rest of the week.
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While Rodgers is clearly hurt, and will be less mobile than usual, he is still going to be able to avail himself of Jordy Nelson and Randall Cobb. Plus, there will still be a heavy dose of Eddie Lacy. We see him as having a solid day of about 275 yards and a touchdown or two. But don't expect any ground yards or amazing goal-line antics.
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IND - RB Trent Richardson working with punt team
Source: The Indianapolis Star - Zak Keefer
Indianapolis Colts RB Trent Richardson was working with the punt coverage team in practice Thursday, Jan. 8.
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This is where the number-three pick in the 2012 NFL draft has ended up - on special teams. If you needed any more proof that Richardson has low dynasty value and may not ever again be the back many forecast he would be when he came out of Alabama.
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IND - RB Trent Richardson's role unclear
Source: ESPN.com - Mike Wells
Indianapolis Colts RB Trent Richardson's role is unclear leading up to the divisional round game against the Denver Broncos Sunday, Jan. 11, after he was demoted to third on the depth chart behind RBs Dan Herron and Zurlon Tipton in the team's wild-card playoff win. Richardson only played on one offensive snap last weekend. “We’re going to evaluate the situation as we go through the week and we’ll know more as we go through the week,” head coach Chuck Pagano said.
[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
Acquiring Richardson has been a disaster for Indianapolis, as has been thoroughly and well-documented at this point. Richardson is not worth a start or a spot in a playoff league.
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CLE - Kyle Shanahan let go
Source: The Cleveland Plain Dealer - Mary Kay Cabot
Cleveland Browns offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan will not be retained in 2015. The two sides mutually agreed to part ways Thursday, Jan. 8.
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Bad franchises seem to have instability in the front office and coaching staff year to year. We've seen it with the New York Jets for quite a while, it appears to be happening in Buffalo with the Bills and Cleveland certainly fits the bill over the last two years. While we're not hitting the panic button, but after ejecting Rob Chudzinski last year after a season and then having the general manager/front office shakeup, another departure is concerning.
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NE - QB Tom Brady has struggled against four-man rush
Source: ESPNBoston.com - Mike Reiss
New England Patriots QB Tom Brady is 74-for-132 for 713 yards, three touchdowns and seven interceptions in three career playoff games against the Baltimore Ravens. 'It's the same coordinator, so a lot of the scheme stuff you see how he tried to defend us back then,' Brady relayed. 'I think the more information, the better.'
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The advanced stats show some interesting information. Brady has completed only 50.2% of his passes with all seven of the interceptions against a four-man rush from the Ravens in those games. When Baltimore brought five or more rushers, Brady completed 77.8% of his passes with a touchdown and no interceptions. The lesson here? Try to put Brady under pressure with four pass-rushers.
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DAL - RB DeMarco Murray not hampered by injury
Source: ESPNDallas.com - Todd Archer
Dallas Cowboys RB DeMarco Murray (hand) has averaged 20 carries and 78 yards per game since breaking his hand Dec. 14 after averaging 25 carries and 121 yards per game in the first 14 contests of the season. Head coach Jason Garrett said any drop in carries for Murray isn't related to his hand, and the running back has proven that the injury hasn't hampered him.
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The biggest concern for the Packers is Murray. They need to have a concentrated effort on defense to at slow him down and force the Cowboys offense to be more one dimensional. Murray's hand has felt good, and he won't change the hard plastic shell he's been using for extra protection this weekend against the Packers.
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DAL - WR Terrance Williams a deep threat again?
Source: ESPNDallas.com - Jean-Jacques Taylor
Dallas Cowboys WR Terrance Williams had three catches for 92 yards and three touchdowns in the team's wild-card playoff win over the Detroit Lions last week, and he has catches of 53, 51 and 76 yards in the last four games. This comes after an eight-game span in the middle of the year in which he had just one catch of more than 20 yards and just one touchdown. “Nothing has really changed,” Williams said. “I’m still running the routes, the way I’ve always run my routes. I think Tony (Romo]) is just taking a few more chances deep than he was before.”
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Williams has been coming through in a big way since his breakout performance in Week 16. As defenses spend so much time and attention with Dez Bryant (as they should), it leaves single coverage for Williams. He has the deep speed to take advantage of those looks.
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BAL - Eugene Monroe optimistic he'll return
Source: ESPN.com - Jamison Hensley
Baltimore Ravens OT Eugene Monroe (ankle), who has missed the team's last two games, is 'very optimistic' about playing in the divisional round game against the New England Patriots Saturday, Jan. 10. If he plays, OT James Hurst would likely move to right tackle and OG Marshal Yanda would move from right tackle to guard.
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Hurst has done a good job filling in at left tackle while Monroe has been out. If Joe Flacco is comfortable in the pocket, it will complicate things for the Patriots defense.
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NE - RB LeGarrette Blount taken off injury report
Source: Boston Herald - Jeff Howe
New England Patriots RB LeGarrette Blount (illness) was removed from the team's injury report Thursday, Jan. 8.
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Blount it ready to smash box against the Ravens defense. Baltimore is tough in the middle, especially since they got DT Haloti Ngata back from his four-game suspension. Blount can soften up an opponent, but he may not find much running room against a Baltimore team that can stuff the run.
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NE - RB Jonas Gray limited Thursday
Source: Patriots.com
New England Patriots RB Jonas Gray (ankle) was limited in practice Thursday, Jan. 8.
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Gray is going to be a reserve player behind LeGarrette Blount. The matchup screams more Shane Vereen (if healthy) than it does Gray or Brandon Bolden.
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NE - WR Julian Edelman, WR Brandon LaFell limited
Source: Patriots.com
New England Patriots WRs Julian Edelman (concussion) and Brandon LaFell (shoulder, toe) were limited in practice Thursday, Jan. 8.
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The Ravens can stuff the run and get after the quarterback. While LaFell will be a threat against their secondary, Brady may lack the time necessary to throw downfield. This means we could see more dink-and-dunk passes to Edelman underneath.
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NE - QB Tom Brady practices fully
Source: Patriots.com
New England Patriots QB Tom Brady (ankle) had a full practice Thursday, Jan. 8.
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Brady will be fired up to play the Ravens. The Patriots are 1-2 at home against the John Harbaugh-led Ravens in the postseason.
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BAL - TE Owen Daniels fully practices
Source: BaltimoreRavens.com
Baltimore Ravens TE Owen Daniels (non-injury related) was a full participant in practice Thursday, Jan. 8.
[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
Daniels should be a decent start this week, as Flacco will look for tight ends on occasion. He's a middle of the road start.
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DAL - QB Tony Romo has played well on the road
Source: ESPNDallas.com - Todd Archer
Dallas Cowboys QB Tony Romo has led the Cowboys to an 8-0 record away from home this year, throwing 20 touchdowns and just two interceptions while completing 70.6 percent of his passes in those games.
[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
Romo has been great on the road, but Green Bay has been dangerous at home. He could get hot in this one, and we're expecting a lot of points to be scored by both teams.
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NE - QB Tom Brady excels in cold weather
Source: NFL.com - Gregg Rosenthal
New England Patriots QB Tom Brady is 44-7 in his career when the temperature is under 40 degrees. The projected temperature for the team's game against the Baltimore Ravens in the divisional round Saturday, Jan. 10, is a high of 21 degrees.
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Brady is fantastic in cold weather, but it's not like the Ravens come from a tropical area. This should be a great game regardless of the weather conditions.
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DAL - QB Tony Romo back to full practice
Source: DallasCowboys.com
Dallas Cowboys QB Tony Romo (back) returned to a full practice Thursday, Jan. 8, after sitting out Wednesday, Jan. 7.
[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
Romo misses Wednesday and returns on Thursday most every week. He'll be ready to rock against the Packers.
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DAL - RB DeMarco Murray practices in full
Source: DallasCowboys.com
Dallas Cowboys RB DeMarco Murray (hand) practiced in full for the second straight day Thursday, Jan. 8.
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Murray is the key for the Cowboys. If he can have success on the ground, things will open up for the Dallas passing game.
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DEN - Full practice for TE Julius Thomas
Source: DenverBroncos.com
Denver Broncos TE Julius Thomas (ankle) practiced in full for the second straight day Thursday, Jan. 8.
[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
Thomas should be OK this week, and we see him as a middle of the road option for fantasy purposes this week. Our NFL Insider Cecil Lammey, from ESPN Denver, says that Thomas is around 75 percent healthy and may be limited to being just a red-zone option for the Broncos this week.
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DEN - WR Demaryius Thomas a full go
Source: DenverBroncos.com
Denver Broncos WR Demaryius Thomas (ankle, finger) practiced in full for the second straight day Thursday, Jan. 8.
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We think Thomas will be a top option in fantasy and for his team this week.
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PIT - Jordan Dangerfield, L'Damian Washington signed
Source: Steelers.com
The Pittsburgh Steelers signed S Jordan Dangerfield and WR L'Damian Washington to Reserve/Futures contracts Thursday, Jan. 8.
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We're watching Washington is super deep dynasty leagues. His game is about speed, speed and more speed. He has good size at 6'4" 195 pounds, but his 9-inch hands give him problems with drops. Originally a 2014 college free agent picked up by the Dallas Cowboys after the draft, Washington has bounced around to four different teams in his rookie year.
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DEN - WR Demaryius Thomas struggling in red zone
Source: ESPN
Denver Broncos WR Demaryius Thomas has caught only one of the 16 passes that have been targeted for him in the red zone over the last five games.
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It's been a tough road for Thomas lately, but we think this could be a bounce back week. Expect upwards of 70 yards and potentially a touchdown in a matchup that could line him up against Colts CB Vontae Davis on Sunday.
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CAR - Thursday practice report
Source: Panthers.com
Carolina Panthers DT Star Lotulelei (foot) did not participate in practice Thursday, Jan. 8. FS Thomas DeCoud (hamstring) was limited during practice, while LB A.J. Klein (ankle) and CB Melvin White (ankle) fully participated in practice.
[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
Losing Lotulelei could be an issue going against a Seattle team which will run the ball and challenge the middle of the field. That injury makes Marshawn Lynch even more of a slam dunk in daily games.
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NFL - Amari Cooper to enter draft
Source: NFL.com
University of Alabama WR Amari Cooper will apply for early entry into the 2015 NFL draft.
[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
This is no shock, as Cooper is easily the best wide receiver in the draft. He'll not only go high, but top ten based on how things sit today. Productive, dynamic and dangerous all over the field, in the right offense he might have solid year one fantasy production. He can accelerate in a flash, and Cooper has the ability to take the top off the defense. Cooper will need to clean up his route running and develop better concentration if he wants to play up to his enormous potential as a pro.
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NFL - T.J. Yeldon to enter draft
Source: NFL.com
University of Alabama RB T.J. Yeldon will apply for early entry into the 2015 NFL draft.
[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
T.J. Yeldon is an interesting running back and should go early on in the draft's running back class; perhaps as a second- or third-round pick. In 2014, he came pretty close to having a third straight 1,000 yard season for Alabama. He has great vision, can move well laterally and does a good job of keeping his feet moving, though he isn't an incredibly powerful runner because he runs too high. Alabama backs in recent years (Mark Ingram, Trent Richardson) have been disappointing to start their careers, but Yeldon could turn out more like Eddie Lacy if he develops better decisiveness.
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NE - WR Brandon LaFell expects to play
Source: ESPNBoston.com - Mike Reiss
New England Patriots WR Brandon LaFell (shoulder, toe) said he expects to play in the Divisional Round playoff game even though he is dealing with shoulder and toe injuries.
[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
If LaFell plays, we think he could see him putting together 60 or so yards and is our No. 9 receiver among active players this weekend.
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PIT - Todd Haley signs extension
Source: Pittsburgh Post-Gazette - Ed Bouchette
Pittsburgh Steelers offensive coordinator Todd Haley recently signed a two-year contract extension that will run through the 2016 season.
[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
Haley has been a bit hit or miss as a coordinator, but this year the Steelers seemed to overachieve (mostly due to Le'Veon Bell) so that buys him a little more time to work out the kinks. More offensive line help and a little depth in the backfield would go a long way towards continuing the improvement.
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IND - RB Trent Richardson would be costly cut
Source: NationalFootballPost.com - Joel Corry
Indianapolis Colts RB Trent Richardson's $3,184,062 salary for 2015 is fully guaranteed, and he has an $8.5 million option for 2016. The team would have to eat his '15 salary if he's cut.
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It's hard to keep beating the drum about this because at this point we know it was a horrible trade for Indianapolis. They may have to wait and get rid of him down the road when the cap hit is less catastrophic. Maybe he'll turn it around before....sorry couldn't finish that sentence without LOLing. The problem is Richardson has regressed so badly he might not recover. The vision, toughness and aggression he ran with in college is gone and it is hard to imagine he will find it again.
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OAK - John Madden assisting in interviews
Source: CSNBayArea.com - Fallon Smith
Former Oakland Raiders coach and television analyst John Madden sat in on the interview with free-agent coach Mike Shanahan (Redskins) for the head coach job, and sources indicate he will be present when the team interviews Tony Sparano.
[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
Madden is a legendary figure in the NFL, and he certainly has the respect of Raiders owner Mark Davis. He's done this before. Madden sat in on Reggie McKenzie's interview when the team hired their current GM in 2012.
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BAL - OLB Terrell Suggs sitting out
Source: ESPN.com - Jamison Hensley
Baltimore Ravens LB Terrell Suggs (non-injury) is not participating in practice Thursday, Jan. 8, but it is believed he is just receiving a day off.
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He'll be ready to go for what is shaping up to be a fantastic matchup against the New England Patriots.
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Source: footballguys.com

[BigSpoon]

"Trent Richardson working with the punt team." He's officially hit rock bottom, will be out of the league in a couple years.

[Grits n' Gravy]

"Trent Richardson working with the punt team." He's officially hit rock bottom, will be out of the league in a couple years.

Turns out Jim Brown was wrong when he called Richardson an average rb after Cleveland drafted him. He is an awful rb.

[LT Profits]

GB - QB Aaron Rodgers to see more blitzes?
Source: ESPN.com - Rob Demovsky
Green Bay Packers QB Aaron Rodgers (calf) could see more blitzes from the Dallas Cowboys in the divisional round game Sunday, Jan. 11, in order for the Cowboys to test Rodgers' mobility. Rodgers has been one of the best quarterbacks against the blitz since 2008, with the highest total QBR (76.2) when opponents send five or more pass rushers, according to ESPN Stats & Information. Rodgers has 91 career touchdowns and just 18 interceptions against the blitz. Dallas, however, blitzed on just 23.7% of opponents' dropbacks this year, so it would represent a change in strategy for them.
[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
Blitzing Rodgers comes with plenty of risk, but it might be a sound strategy given Rodgers' calf injury.
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GB - QB Aaron Rodgers' calf won't alter offense
Source: Milwaukee Journal Sentinel - Bob McGinn
Green Bay Packers QB Aaron Rodgers' (calf) calf injury will not alter the team's offense game plan for the Divisional Round playoff game, according to head coach Mike McCarthy.
[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
Yeah, they may say that, but change may be what we see on the field. The Packers are going to monitor Rodgers closely as he deals with this nagging calf injury.
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SEA - RB Marshawn Lynch should play
Source: Seahawks.com
Seattle Seahawks RB Marshawn Lynch (back) fully participated in practice Friday, Jan. 9, and is listed as probable for the Divisional Round playoff game.
[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
Lynch is going to be the centerpiece of the Seahawks offense. He may have the biggest day of any RB left in the Divisional Round of the playoffs.
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DAL - ILB Rolando McClain, DE Jeremy Mincey cleared to practice
Source: DallasCowboys.com - Nick Eatman
Dallas Cowboys LB Rolando McClain (concussion) and DE Jeremy Mincey (concussion) were both cleared to practice Friday, Jan. 9, after suffering concussions in the team's wild-card playoff game last weekend.
[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
Great news for the Cowboys defense. It's all hands on deck against the Packers in the Divisional Round.
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SF - QB Colin Kaepernick to develop as pocket passer
Source: CSNBayArea.com - Matt Maiocco
San Francisco 49ers QB Colin Kaepernick has enlisted the help of former QB Kurt Warner this offseason in order to help him develop as a pocket passer. “He’s gotten by on athleticism, and he’s made some great plays and had some great games. But I think the goal is in the time that I’m going to have with him is just to see where he’s at and what he knows about the position and how far we can push the envelope as far as helping him develop as a pocket passer,' Warner said. Kaepernick ranked 20th in the league with a career-low 86.4 passer rating this season.
[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
Kaepernick is a 'pure-sight' thrower. This means he fails to anticipate where receivers are going in their routes and he just throws to a spot. He needs to develop better passing skills or the 49ers are going to move on. Former head coach Jim Harbaugh was a big believer in Kaepernick, but now he's gone to Michigan. Any new coach will have to figure out a way to improve Kaepernick's raw skill set.
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DET - QB Matthew Stafford had a lot on his plate
Source: DetroitLions.com - Tim Twentyman
Detroit Lions QB Matthew Stafford handled himself well despite all of the things offensive coordinator Joe Lombardi threw at him in their first season together. “Looking back, I kind of try to drop maybe some responsibilities on him that maybe a quarterback like Drew (Brees) didn’t get until four years into the system in New Orleans,” Lombardi said. “We asked a lot of him and he responded. There is a tax when you ask a quarterback maybe to do that much and the more comfortable he gets the lower that tax will be.” Injuries and an inconsistent offensive line led Lombardi to give Stafford more responsibilities than he initially intended. Stafford's 12 interceptions was a career low, and he finished the season with a 60.3 completion percentage, which was the second highest mark in his career. His 4,257 yards were the fifth most in team history.
[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
Stafford has to win in the postseason. Period. He's put up 'Star Wars' numbers in the regular season before. He's made plenty of mistakes as a passer...and he still does (throwing off his back foot, staring down receivers, throwing into coverage). Yes, he has plenty on his plate but so does every other QB in the league. If Stafford wants to take the next step, he must improve.
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NE - Will Hill to cover TE Rob Gronkowski?
Source: The Baltimore Sun - Aaron Wilson
New England Patriots TE Rob Gronkowski is likely to be covered by Baltimore Ravens FS Will Hill in the divisional round game Saturday, Jan. 10. 'It's not just a one-man job, it's a team effort. He's not a slow guy. If you try to play off him, you're just giving him what he needs. If you play up, he has the strength to get through people. He's a beast. He has a lot of aggression,' Hill said. Gronkowski has three catches for 45 yards in two previous regular season meetings with the Ravens. However, in the Patriots' one win over the Ravens in the postseason, Gronkowski had five catches for 87 yards on eight targets before hurting his ankle. Baltimore plans on jamming Gronkowski at the line of scrimmage to prevent him from getting into his patterns.
[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
The Ravens are going to try and get physical with Gronkowski. We'll anxiously wait to see how that turns out. Gronkowski is difficult to slow down, but doing so is key for Baltimore if they want to win. The Ravens are amazingly 2-1 in the playoffs at Foxborough.
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IND - WR Reggie Wayne misses practice
Source: Colts.com
Indianapolis Colts WR Reggie Wayne (rest) did not participate in practice Friday, Jan. 9, but is not on the injury report for the Divisional Round playoff game.
[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
Interesting development here. We're expecting Wayne to play, but finding open space against a tough Broncos secondary could be difficult.
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SF - TE Vernon Davis' spot may be in jeopardy
Source: CSNBayArea.com - Matt Maiocco
San Francisco 49ers TE Vernon Davis' roster spot for 2015 could be in jeopardy, because he is scheduled to make $4.95 million next season.
[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
To quote Charles Barkley, Davis was 'turrible' in 2014. His 245 yards receiving represents a career low for the veteran tight end. His two receiving touchdowns ties a career low as well. We're likely to see Davis move on for 2015.
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BUF - DE Jerry Hughes not interested in discount
Source: The Buffalo News - Jay Skurski
Buffalo Bills impending free-agent DE Jerry Hughes said he is interested in re-signing with the Bills but is not willing to take a discount in order to return.
[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
We could see Hughes signed to a big contract this offseason, but whether or not he remains in Buffalo is a question mark. General manager Doug Whaley said the team will try to re-sign Hughes in the offseason.
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PIT - WR Martavis Bryant ready for next step
Source: College2Pro.com - Bo Marchionte
Pittsburgh Steelers WR Martavis Bryant, who had 26 catches, 549 yards and eight touchdowns in his rookie season, is eager to improve upon his numbers in his sophomore season in 2015.
[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
We're excited about Bryant's upside. He has the size to be a red-zone threat when the Steelers are near pay dirt. His speed also makes him a strong target on deep passes. Bryant plans to work out with WR Antonio Brown this offseason in Miami. His eight touchdowns put him tied for fourth in the league among rookies.
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GB - QB Aaron Rodgers listed as probable
Source: NFL.com - Kevin Patra
Green Bay Packers QB Aaron Rodgers (calf) is listed as probable for the divisional round game against the Dallas Cowboys Sunday, Jan. 11. Head coach Mike McCarthy said Rodgers is moving around fine.
[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
Rodgers may be moving around fine, but the Packers are praying he doesn't aggravate this injury during the game against the Cowboys. We'll see if the Packers try a different offensive approach in the Divisional Round to help protect Rodgers from further injury.
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ARI - WR Larry Fitzgerald starts contract talks
Source: The Arizona Republic - Kent Somers
Arizona Cardinals WR Larry Fitzgerald and the team have had positive preliminary contract talks, according to sources. However, money has yet to be discussed. Fitzgerald is due an $8 million bonus if he's on the roster March 17, and his cap figure for next year is scheduled to be $23.6 million. Arizona is hoping to lower that cap number by signing Fitzgerald to a new deal worth less money. The team also hasn't ruled out the thought of trading the star receiver. Releasing Fitzgerald would save the team $9.2 million in cap space in 2015.
[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
Stay tuned here folks. Initially, reports surfaced that Fitzgerald was unhappy with his role on the offense and he wanted out of Arizona. Now, he may restructure his contract to stay with the team. However, a smaller contract may make Fitzgerald easier to trade.
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DEN - OLB Brandon Marshall expected to play
Source: ESPN.com - Jeff Legwold
Denver Broncos LB Brandon M. Marshall (foot) practiced all week and is expected to play in the team's divisional round game against the Indianapolis Colts Sunday, Jan. 11, despite being listed as questionable.
[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ FOOTBALLGUYS VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
This is good news for the Broncos defense. Marshall has done a fine job filling in at weak-side linebacker. His coverage skills could help slow down tight ends like Coby Fleener and Dwayne Allen on Sunday.
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IND - Pocket passers have hurt Colts
Source: ESPN.com - Mike Wells
Denver Broncos QB Peyton Manning, Pittsburgh Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger, New England Patriots QB Tom Brady and Dallas Cowboys QB Tony Romo went a combined 99-for-135 for 1,266 yards, 15 touchdowns and only two interceptions against the Indianapolis Colts this year, and the Colts were 0-4 in those games. Indy also sacked those QBs just twice. 'You've got to do a great job of mixing things up,' Colts head coach Chuck Pagano said. 'There's nothing that (Manning) has not seen. Obviously, we know he's going to do his homework and be prepared as well as any quarterback can be prepared. We just got to do a great job of mixing things up.'
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Manning had a good game against the Colts in Week 1. The Broncos were let down by their lack of a ground game at the time, and that's why the Colts were able to come back after being down 24-0. This time around, C.J. Anderson (not Montee Ball) will be counted on to smash the Colts between the tackles. Advantage: Denver.
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SD - WR Austin Pettis signs
Source: Chargers.com
The San Diego Chargers signed free-agent WR Austin Pettis (Rams) to an undisclosed deal Friday, Jan. 9.
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An interesting move for the Chargers here. Pettis was a third-round pick for the St. Louis Rams in the 2011 NFL draft, but he failed to play up to expectations. The Rams cut Pettis in October after he was late for a team meeting. He'll get a chance to redeem himself in San Diego.
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NE - WR Brandon LaFell expected to play
Source: Patriots.com
New England Patriots WR Brandon LaFell (shoulder, toe) was limited in practice for the third straight day Friday, Jan. 9, but he is probable for the divisional round game against the Baltimore Ravens Saturday, Jan. 10.
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LaFell could be a key player for the Patriots on Saturday. Daily game players need a heads up here. The Ravens secondary is weak, and Tom Brady will pick there all day so long as he gets time to throw.
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NE - RB Jonas Gray listed as probable
Source: Patriots.com
New England Patriots RB Jonas Gray (ankle) was limited in practice for the third straight day Friday, Jan. 9, but he is probable for the divisional round game against the Baltimore Ravens Saturday, Jan. 10.
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That's all nice and well, but we're not expecting much from Gray this weekend. The Pats will have LeGarrette Blount as their primary back, and we feel Shane Vereen could have a larger role given the matchup.
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NE - WR Julian Edelman good to go
Source: Patriots.com
New England Patriots WR Julian Edelman (concussion) was limited in practice for the third straight day Friday, Jan. 9, but he is probable for the divisional round game against the Baltimore Ravens Saturday, Jan. 10.
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Great news for the Patriots here. Edelman will be counted on heavily in this game against the Ravens. The Baltimore pass-rushers will put heat on Tom Brady, and he will need quality outlet receivers like Edelman to make plays for him.
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NE - QB Tom Brady probable against Ravens
Source: Patriots.com
New England Patriots QB Tom Brady (ankle) practiced in full for the third straight day Friday, Jan. 9, and is probable for the divisional round game against the Baltimore Ravens Saturday, Jan. 10.
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Brady is ready to rock and roll. The Ravens secondary is weak, so he only needs time to pick them apart. We'll see if the Patriots offensive line does a good job against pass-rushers like Elvis Dumervil and Terrell Suggs.
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DEN - WR Demaryius Thomas ready to go this weekend
Source: DenverBroncos.com
Denver Broncos WR Demaryius Thomas (ankle, finger) practiced in full for the third straight day Friday, Jan. 9, and is probable for the divisional round game against the Indianapolis Colts Sunday, Jan. 11.
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Thomas is good to go in a great matchup against Vontae Davis. Manning get plenty of support from the Broncos improved ground game, and that will give him time to attack vertically if the Broncos so desire.
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DEN - Probable status for TE Julius Thomas
Source: DenverBroncos.com
Denver Broncos TE Julius Thomas (ankle) practiced in full for the third straight day Friday, Jan. 9, and is probable for the divisional round game against the Indianapolis Colts Sunday, Jan. 11.
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Thomas is going to play on Sunday against the Colts. Just know that he's about 75 percent healthy according to reports. This means the Broncos could limit Thomas' playing time in the Divisional Round. Even with limited targets, Thomas could have high-value targets near the end zone. Keep this in mind when you're setting your daily games lineup.
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DEN - QB Peyton Manning probable against Colts
Source: DenverBroncos.com
Denver Broncos QB Peyton Manning (thigh) practiced in full for the third straight day Friday, Jan. 9, and is probable for the divisional round game against the Indianapolis Colts Sunday, Jan. 11.
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Manning is good to go for this big game. While the Broncos are more of a run-heavy team now, we could see Manning throw the ball about 30 times on Sunday. The weather shouldn't be much of a factor, and Manning could look better than he has in recent weeks since the Broncos got some time off during their bye last week.
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GB - RB Eddie Lacy healthy going into playoffs
Source: ESPN.com - Rob Demovsky
Green Bay Packers RB Eddie Lacy said he is much healthier going into the playoffs this year than he was last season. 'Eddie was in a (walking) boot all week and then played on Sundays this time last year,' head coach Mike McCarthy said. 'So he feels better. He's a better football player in my opinion this year than last year. I think he's a complete third-down player. In fact, I know he is. So I think he's definitely in a better place this year than he was last year.' Lacy faced less stacked boxes this year than last year when QB Aaron Rodgers missed seven-plus games with a broken collarbone. Lacy averaged 5.0 yards per carry and had 711 yards in the last eight games this year, which was fifth in the league during that span.
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With a banged up Aaron Rodgers (calf), going with more carries for Lacy may be the best recipe for success. The Cowboys defense will have a difficult time slowing down Lacy the way he's been playing in recent weeks. Keep this in mind as you set your lineup for the daily games.
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DAL - DT Terrell McClain thinks he can play
Source: ESPNDallas.com - Todd Archer
Dallas Cowboys DT Terrell McClain (ankle) believes he can play in the Divisional Round playoff game even though he did not participate in practice this week.
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The Cowboys are going to have to stop (or at least slow down) Eddie Lacy in the Divisional Round. Having McClain available could help them do just that.
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WAS - Robert Griffin to receive another chance
Source: NFL.com - Chris Wesseling
Washington Redskins QB Robert Griffin III likely will be given another chance to succeed, because teams should not give up on young quarterbacks, according to general manager Scot McCloughan.
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It's too soon (and Washington gave up too much) to give up on Griffin. We'll see 2015 as a year where he needs to get his career back on track. After a fantastic rookie season in 2012, Griffin has struggled to stay healthy and produce consistently. McCoughlan said Griffin needs to be surrounded by a strong running attack and a more reliable offensive line.
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SF - Shayne Skov signed to futures deal
Source: 49ers.com
The San Francisco 49ers signed LB Shayne Skov to a futures contract Friday, Jan. 9. Terms of the contract were not disclosed.
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Skov is shot out of a cannon as a run-defender, but he lacks the agility and speed to cover at the pro level. He's a two-down thumper only.
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SF - Rex Ryan has 49ers as first choice
Source: San Francisco Chronicle - Eric Branch
Free-agent head coach Rex Ryan (Jets) has the San Francisco 49ers atop the list of teams he would like to coach, but it is not known what the 49ers' choice is at the top. Ryan's second choice is the Atlanta Falcons.
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We'll see if the coaching carousel gets going here in a bit. All of the openings are still open at the time we write this update. That's unusual for this point in the NFL postseason.
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Source: footballguys.com