| Written by Jeremy Ormins,
on 02-26-2008 19:03
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Views : 555  |
Favoured : 88 |
Published in : , Sports |
The Cardinals are a very interesting team right now. It seemed that their offense was ready to explode coming into the season last year. Matt Leinart was groomed and ready. Fitzgerald and Bolding have proved they are easily capable. Edgerin James was all set to go to continue to add some consistency to their running game. Instead the offense started the season in a very dissappointing fashion. Leinart as injured somewhat early in the season but he was having a bad year anyways (61.9 rating in 5 games), in fact when Kurt Warner stepped in it seemed like the Cardinals were a potent offense again. With Leinart being healthy again, instead of being optimistic, I am very cautious. I was also puzzled by coach Ken Whisenhunt's strategies of changing quarterbacks they way someone changes their shirt, is also disturbing to me. I understand a trick play or two, but Whisenhunt was a little crazy throwing Rattay in on the goal line or for 2 point conversions. It got a little out of control for my taste and that worries me that he might do the same this year with Leinart and Warner, hurting both of their fantasy values greatly.
With the 8-8 record the Cardinals will be drafting 16th in this upcoming NFL Draft. The majority of draft experts are looking at the speedy running back from Oregon, Jonathon Stewart. Its possible the Cards cut Edge, or its even possible they keep him and these two split time. But Edge is definitely getting older as every year passes and J.J. Arrington is definitely not the answer. Stewart didn't do anything special at the combine so I would not be surprised to see another back taken here, but I'm in agreement the running back position is going to be strengthened with this pick.
Fantasy Top 5
1. Larry Fitzgerald WR- No matter who's throwing to him Fitzgerald has been extrememly consistent and is a fantasy stud, expect another year like last 1400+ yards, 10 touchdowns.
2. Anquan Boldin WR- While not coming near Fitzgerald in yards Bolding only had one less touchdown. Expect more of the same next season, they make a nice combo.
3. Edgerrin James RB- While he continues to age he continues to be good for 1000+ yards and at least half a dozen touchdown. He isn't very exciting but somewhat consistent.
4. Matt Leinart/Kurt Warner QB- I am a big fan of Leinart but am puzzled by the beginning of last year. Perhaps he is working too hard for ESPN and not hard enough in game film study. Warner is probably the better fantasy quarterback right now but knowing Whisenhunt he's going to continue his wacky strategy of last year hurting both of these QBs' values.
5. Leonard Pope TE- Pope very quietly scored five touchdowns last year. He's no Antonio Gates but perhaps a sleeper for a bye week start.
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