News: According to mlive.com, Lions president Tom Lewand said it is important to rework quarterback Matthew Stafford's current contract. Stafford has two more years remaining on his contract, and will earn a base salary of $12 million in 2013, but his salary cap hit is $20.3 million. He will earn $11 million in 2014 ($19.3 million salary cap number) and $15 million in 2015 ($17.7 million salary cap number). Despite the obvious need to free up cap space, Lewand said reworking Stafford's deal is essential because he wants the quarterback to remain in Detroit long-term. "Matthew Stafford is our quarterback, and we hope is our quarterback for a long time," Lewand said. "The reason to explore a contract extension with Matthew is to fulfill that goal of having him be our quarterback for a long time. It's not a short-term look at the salary cap. That's the wrong way to look at that. When you look at extending somebody like Matthew, he's not going to take less money to extend. That's a very short-term focus to look at. The reason to have an extension with Matthew, just like the reason to have the extension with Calvin last year, was to secure their services for a long period of time. In Calvin's case last year, the timing was a little bit different because we knew that there was an opportunity to get something done. But in Matthew's case, Matthew's got two years left on his deal. Calvin didn't. It's a different set of circumstances."
Analysis: Stafford is coming off a good year, but he left a lot of production on the field. He passed for 4,967 yards, but he attempted the most passes in the NFL with 727. He also added just 20 touchdowns with 17 interceptions. Still, Stafford has proven to be an elite Fantasy quarterback and has the best receiver in the NFL. He is a No. 1 option and worth drafting by Round 4 in the majority of leagues.
News: The Detroit Free Press reports that Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford could get a new contract this offseason. General manager Martin Mayhew said he hopes to work out a new deal with Stafford before the start of free agency in March. Stafford's cap figure for next year is $20.3 million.
Analysis: Stafford is coming off a good year, but he left a lot of production on the field. He passed for 4,967 yards, but he attempted the most passes in the NFL with 727. He also added just 20 touchdowns with 17 interceptions. Still, Stafford has proven to be an elite Fantasy quarterback and has the best receiver in the NFL. He is a No. 1 option and worth drafting by Round 4 in the majority of leagues.
News: Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford had 42 pass attempts against the Bears on Sunday, giving him an NFL record 727 attempts on the season. The previous high was 691, set by Drew Bledsoe in 1994. Stafford had 272 passing yards and three touchdowns, while fumbling twice and throwing an interception. He finishes the year with 20 passing touchdowns -- a huge drop-off from the 41 he passed for in 2011 -- and 17 interceptions.
Analysis: Stafford's stock dropped pretty far in 2012, despite leading the NFL in pass attempts for the second straight year while throwing for 4,967 yards (putting him in the top three among quarterbacks). The lack of touchdowns -- he had 24 overall, as he rushed for four -- really killed his Fantasy value, as Stafford shed over one touchdown per game from his 2011 totals. Week 17 marked just the fifth time all season that Stafford threw for multiple touchdowns in a game. The fourth quarterback taken in drafts this season, Stafford will drop in 2013 drafts, as would-be owners will have to decide whether 2011 or 2012 was the fluke year, in terms of red zone production -- and there's no solid answer to that right now. Expect Stafford to still be a top 10 quarterback selection, but falling to the lower end of that group. He may end up being a sleeper pick, depending on how much of the crowd turns on him.
News: How heavily stilted is the Detroit offense toward the pass? With his seventh attempt on Sunday against the Bears, Matthew Stafford will set the single-season pass attempt record. The previous record-holder, Drew Bledsoe, threw 691 times in 1994; so far this season, Stafford has attempted 685 passes. So why isn't Stafford being praised for his Fantasy prowess? Because he's managed just 17 touchdowns on the season, alongside 16 interceptions, from those 685 attempts -- a far cry from last year, when Stafford threw 41 touchdown passes.
Analysis: Stafford's Week 17 opponent, the Bears, have been pretty tough against passers this season, allowing the fourth-fewest Fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks. They've allowed quarterbacks to score 20 or more points just three times this season, but all of those games have come in the last six weeks. And Stafford's 16-point game in Week 7 (263 yards and a touchdown) is the fifth-best this year against the Bears. Still, with a decimated wide receiver corps, Stafford has failed to hit the 20-point mark in his last three games, despite passing 50 or more times twice in that span. He has just one touchdown in his last three games against five interceptions. Stafford will throw, but his inability to find the end zone makes him a risky start in Week 17.
News: Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford became the all-time franchise leader in career completions with 1,090 during Saturday's contest against the Falcons at home in Week 16. Stafford turned in a quality performance as he reached the 400-yard mark for the second time this season. He completed 37 of 56 passes for season-high 443 yards with an interception and no touchdowns in a 31-18 defeat. He was picked off by Asante Samuel in the fourth quarter and finished with 82.7 quarterback rating. He set a record for most yards in a game without throwing a touchdown pass.
Analysis: Stafford was picked off while forcing a pass to his teammate Calvin Johnson, who eventually broke the single-season receiving yards set by Jerry Rice in 1995. It was his fifth game in four seasons in the league with 400-plus passing yards. He has now 4,695 yards with 17 touchdowns and 16 interceptions this season. He continues to rack up yards but is well below his 41-touchdown campaign in 2011. He'll try to keep his recent success going in the season finale at home against the Bears. Stafford threw for 263 yards with a touchdown and an interception in his previous meeting Week 7. Fantasy owners should view Stafford as a low-end starting option for Week 17.
News: Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford will try to bounce back from a rough performance heading into Saturday's contest at home against the Falcons in Week 16. Stafford was held in check and threw for just 246 yards with three interceptions and without a touchdown in Week 15 at Arizona. He'll face an Atlanta defense that has allowed 229.5 yards passing per game this season, which is ranked 17th in the league. He threw for just 183 yards a touchdown in his last meeting against the Falcons in Week 7 in 2011.
Analysis: Stafford has not had the season Fantasy owners were hoping for, especially for someone who was considered to be a Top 5 Fantasy quarterback in this year's drafts. He failed to post 10 points for the first time this season against the Cardinals and has played better at home, averaging 340 yards with a total of nine touchdowns and seven interceptions, while averaging just 275.8 yards with a total of eight touchdowns and eight interceptions away from Ford Field. The Falcons are yielding 13.8 Fantasy points per week to quarterbacks, which is the fifth-lowest average in the league. Stafford is at best a low-end Fantasy start Week 16.
News: Lions coach Jim Schwartz said Monday he'd never considered benching quarterback Matthew Stafford during Sunday's 38-10 loss against the Cardinals. "He's our starting quarterback," Schwartz said, per MLive.com. "I don't want to farm somebody else's land, but why didn't the Saints replace Drew Brees after four (interceptions)? Hey, you put your best guys out there. That's our objective every single week. Matt can make all the plays for us. He's brought us back plenty of times. We're not going to make changes just to make changes.''
Analysis: Week 15 was actually the first time all season Stafford failed to record at least 10 Fantasy points. He had no passing touchdowns and tied a season-high with three interceptions. While it hasn't been a terrible Fantasy season for Stafford, it hasn't been a great one either. He was drafted as a Top 5 Fantasy quarterback, but he heads into Week 16 as the 11th-highest Fantasy scoring quarterback. The Lions host the Falcons Week 16. The Falcons are yielding 13.8 Fantasy points per week to quarterbacks, which is the fifth-lowest average in the league. Stafford is at best a low-end Fantasy start Week 16.
News: Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford completed 24 of his 50 passes for 246 yards during Detroit's 38-10 loss at Arizona in Week 15. Stafford, whose offense entered the game ranked second in the NFL, fired three interceptions and no touchdown passes while positing his second-lowest yardage total of the season. He threw for 230 during a loss to San Francisco in Week 2. "That's about as bad as I can play," Stafford said.
Analysis: Stafford turned in another lackluster showing Sunday as his chances of racking up 5,000 passing yards for the second straight season took a hit. He is now at 4,252 passing yards on the year with two games to play. But his lack of touchdowns continues to be a frustrating point as he added to his interception total (15) while remaining stuck on 17 touchdown passes. Especially considering he fired 41 touchdown passes during a historic run last season. Fantasy owners can hope for a rebound in Week 16 against on Saturday as the game could develop into a shootout with fellow quarterback Matt Ryan.
News: Despite being in only his fourth NFL season and still lacking a playoff victory, Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford drew high praise from his offensive coordinator this week. "I don't know where Peyton (Manning) was after four years, but I think Matt's definitely on track to be one of the best quarterbacks to ever play this position," Linehan told MLive.com. "We'll see when it's all said and done, but he's really taken a lot on. We put a lot on him as well." Stafford could register 5,000 passing yards for the second straight season if he averages 332 yards over his last three games. His first challenge is in Week 15 at Arizona, which owns the league's fifth-ranked pass defense (197.1 yards allowed).
Analysis: Stafford currently ranks second in the NFL with 4,006 yards as he attempts to become the first player in league history to reach the 5,000-yard mark in consecutive seasons. "His ceiling is real high," teammate Dominic Raiola said. "Really, he's in his second year starting, really healthy. He's got a great mind for the game. His talent and physical skills are awesome. ... I think he could be (one of greatest ever)." Stafford is still lacking the robust touchdown total he had last year (41) and has only 17 this season, though five of those gave come in the past three weeks. The Cardinals are allowing a paltry average of 12.6 Fantasy points per game to opposing quarterbacks, but Stafford remains a high-end option for Week 15.
News: Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford endured one of his weakest performances of the season during Sunday's contest against the Packers in Week 14. Stafford was held under 270 yards passing for just the fourth time this season as he completed 27 of 45 passes for 264 yards with a touchdown and an interception in a 27-20 defeat. Stafford ran for a 4-yard touchdown on a bootleg play on fourth-and-goal in the first quarter. With Brandon Pettigrew sidelined with an ankle injury, Stafford hooked up with his backup Tony Scheffler for a short 3-yard strike in the second quarter for his 17th touchdown of the season. He was also picked off by Sam Shields in the third quarter for his 12th interception of the season. Stafford was sacked once and lost a fumble, which resulted in a Mike Daniels 43-yard fumble return for a touchdown.
Analysis: Stafford has struggled this season against the Packers, so the lack of production (by his standard) is not a big surprise. He still leads the league with 4,006 yards passing this season to go along with 17 touchdowns and 12 interceptions. He has topped the 4,000-yard mark for the second consecutive season. Stafford will try to get back on track against a mediocre Arizona team that allowed 58 points and 209 passing yards to the Seahawks in Week 15. Fantasy owners should keep him active in all formats heading into Week 15 at Arizona.
News: Detroit quarterback Matthew Stafford will look to keep his recent success going at Green Bay in Week 14. Stafford has been on a roll as of late and has averaged 337.3 yards passing with a total of eight touchdowns and four interceptions in his last four games. He'll face a Green Bay defense that has allowed 233.8 yards through the air this season. Stafford was held to just 266 yards passing with a touchdown and two interceptions in his previous meeting against the Packers in Week 11.
Analysis: Stafford has been one of the hottest quarterbacks in the league as of late and is first in the league with 3,742 yards this season. Though his touchdown-to-interception ratio has taken a hit this season, he has made it up by posting seven 300-yards performances in his first 12 games. Stafford only had eight 300-yard performances last season. Opposing quarterbacks have scored an average of 18 Fantasy points per game this season against the Packers. Fantasy owners should continue to roll with Stafford as a solid starting option in all formats heading into Week 14.
News: Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford played well Sunday in Week 13 in a loss against the Colts. Stafford was 27 of 46 passing for 313 yards, two touchdowns and one interception. Stafford threw one touchdown to Brandon Pettigrew and one to Calvin Johnson. Stafford now has 754 passing yards, four touchdowns and one interception in his past two games against the Colts and Texans.
Analysis: Stafford will look to remain hot in Week 14 at Green Bay. The last time he faced the Packers in Week 1 he was 17 of 39 passing for 266 yards, one touchdown and two interceptions. We expect him to play better this time around and should be considered a solid starting option in all formats.
News: Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford is looking to snap a strange streak heading into Week 13 against the Colts. Going back to Week 3 at Tennessee when he had 20 Fantasy points, each time he has 20 or more Fantasy points, the week after he follows it up with 19 points or less. His game log for Fantasy points from Week 3 on reads 20, 19, 22, 16, 37, 11, 30, 11, 29. The 29 Fantasy points was in Week 12 against the Texans, but we expect another strong outing against the Colts. Indianapolis has allowed six quarterbacks to throw multiple touchdowns, and Stafford has 77 Fantasy points in his past three home games.
Analysis: Stafford should remain hot against the Colts coming off last week's game against the Texans. We consider him a No. 1 Fantasy quarterback in all leagues.
News: Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford didn't have a good completion percentage against the Texans on Thanksgiving, but everything else about his game was phenomenal. Stafford completed just 31 of a whopping 61 pass attempts for 441 yards and two touchdowns along with seven yards rushing. He also did not have a turnover. Stafford's first touchdown pass was a short dart to Mike Thomas, who ran a post route from 5 yards out. His second score was to Calvin Johnson on a 22-yard bomb caught by Megatron in single coverage. Both touchdowns came in the first half. The Lions lost 34-31 in overtime.
Analysis: Stafford has had an interesting trend where he's put up big stats one week and then been quiet the next. To wit, here are his standard-scoring league Fantasy point totals starting in Week 3: 20, 19, 22, 16, 37, 11, 30, 11 and 29 points scored in Week 12. By that logic, Stafford is due for a poor game in Week 13, but the Lions host the Colts next week. That matchup is among the best for Fantasy quarterbacks, making Stafford a must-start once again in his next game.
News: Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford passed for five touchdowns the last time he faced the Packers a year ago, so there was some hope that he would be able to provide a solid encore Sunday in Detroit during Week 11. Unfortunately, Stafford failed to live up to expectations in the game, a continuing theme for him through what continues to be a trying season. Stafford completed 17 of 39 passes for 262 yards, and a third-quarter 25-yard touchdown to Calvin Johnson was his only score on the day. Stafford tossed a pair of interceptions in the game, both of them inside Green Bay territory in a game the Lions would go on to lose, 24-20. This was the second time this season that Stafford has completed less than 50 percent of his passes, as well as his second multi-interception game. Stafford added 12 rushing yards on scrambles, but did lose one fumble in the game.
Analysis: Fantasy owners have been consistently disappointed with Stafford’s production, and Sunday was no different. Stafford passed for 41 touchdowns a year ago, and everyone assumed that that was just the beginning of his ascension to the ranks of the league’s elite. Instead, he has taken a major step back this year, with just 12 touchdowns and 10 interceptions in 10 games. Stafford’s job will not get any easier in Week 12, as the Lions are scheduled to face the Texans on Thursday. Houston entered Week 11 allowing just 14.6 Fantasy points per game to opposing quarterbacks. They did allow four passing touchdowns to Chad Henne in Week 11, but this is probably not a good matchup for Stafford. His upside remains high enough that Fantasy owners should continue to consider Stafford a decent starting option in most formats despite the tough matchup.
News: Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford has had a surprisingly disappointing career against the Packers, with the exception of one massive performance in the teams' last matchup. In Week 17 last year, Stafford threw for 520 yards and five touchdowns, while being picked off twice in a 45-41 loss. In two other games against the Packers, Stafford has thrown just two touchdowns, while being intercepted seven times. He enters Week 11 against the Packers hoping for a repeat of that Week 17 shootout, with the Lions badly in need of a win.
Analysis: Stafford is not quite living up to expectations this season, with just 11 touchdown passes in nine games, so hopefully the Packers can get him going. He is attempting more passes than anyone in the league this season, but is averaging just 11.0 yards per completion, down from 12.0 a year ago. The Packers have been surprisingly stout against the pass this season, holding opposing quarterbacks to just 14 touchdowns in nine games. Quarterbacks are averaging just 17.1 Fantasy points per game against the Packers, and they have been even better over the last four games. Since allowed Colts quarterback Andrew Luck to score three times with 362 passing yards in Week 5, the Packers have limited opposing passers to just 13.0 Fantasy points per game. Stafford has disappointed this season, but this could turn into a shootout, so consider him a high-end Fantasy option for Week 11.
News: Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford connected on 28 of 42 attempts for 329 yards passing and three touchdowns during Detroit's 34-24 loss at Minnesota in Week 10. Stafford registered three touchdowns for the second occasion in the past three games, and one of his scores went to receiver Calvin Johnson (11 yards) -- the first time the duo has connected this season. He also found Brandon Pettigrew (16 yards) and Titus Young (1 yard) for touchdowns. "We were backed up and going 80-plus, it felt like, the whole game," Stafford said about the Lions' field position. "That's something that's going to be tough against a defense like that."
Analysis: Stafford tried to make up for Detroit playing deep on its side of the field often and registered his third-highest yardage total of the season. And he managed the feat by finally connecting with his old friend, Calvin Johnson, who amassed 207 yards on 12 receptions. Stafford is also beginning to recover his scoring prowess and has accounted for more scores over his past three games (six) than his first outings of the season (five). Fantasy owners should continue to view him as a high-end Fantasy option for the Week 11 showdown against Green Bay.
News: Detroit quarterback Matthew Stafford added his name next to a former superstar at the position during his previous outing. Stafford's 285 passing yards last Sunday against Jacksonville moved him to 10,233 yards for his career and classified him as the second-fastest player (37 games) to reach 10,000 after Kurt Warner (36 games). He will aim to extend his recent strong play in Week 10 against the Vikings; Stafford completed 32 of 46 (69.6 percent) passes for 378 yards and two touchdowns in his previous game at Minnesota.
Analysis: Stafford also had a solid performance during the teams' first meeting this year and attempted a season-high 51 passes while completing 30 of them for 319 yards. However, he was held without a touchdown pass (and an interception) -- only the second occasion he has failed to account for a score. The other instance, surprisingly, came in Week 9 against a woeful Jacksonville secondary. But Stafford has a solid opportunity to dismiss both outings against a Minnesota defense that is permitting an average of 21.0 Fantasy points per game to opposing quarterbacks. Keep Stafford active in all formats for Week 10.
News: Coming off a 352-yard, three-touchdown effort that was undoubtedly his best of the season, Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford had another fine day throwing the ball Week 9 at Jacksonville. Unfortunately, he didn't have any touchdowns to show for it because running back Mikel Leshoure ran for a touchdown every time the Lions got inside the 10-yard line. Leshoure scored all three of the Lions' touchdowns in the first half, and Joique Bell added a fourth with a 10-yard run in the fourth quarter. Stafford, meanwhile, was 22 of 33 passing for 285 yards. It was the fourth time this season that he completed at least two-thirds of his passes and the third time that he didn't throw an interception.
Analysis: Stafford came close to a touchdown a couple times. Wide receiver Calvin Johnson was dragged down at the 1-yard line on a 38-yard passing play, setting up Leshoure's second touchdown. Later in the game, wide receiver Titus Young dropped a 24-yard pass in the end zone. Granted, those plays happen for every quarterback from time to time, but the bottom line is Stafford's lack of touchdowns in Week 9 sounds mostly like a case of rotten luck. Because the Lions built up such a big lead at halftime, he only attempted nine passes in the second half. How often is that going to be the case for him? The Lions' matchup at Minnesota in Week 10 isn't especially imposing, so you'll probably want to keep Stafford active, despite the disappointing performance.
News: Coming off a season-best performance in which he threw for 352 yards and three touchdowns against a Seahawks defense that had previously thrived against the pass, Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford is poised to shred a Jaguars defense that ranks 23rd against the pass, allowing 251.3 yards per game. When he and the Lions travel to Jacksonville in Week 9, they'll be facing a defense that is tied for 25th with four interceptions this season and ranks dead last with three sacks. The Jaguars have allowed only nine touchdown passes, though. Only six teams have allowed fewer.
Analysis: Basically, the Jaguars aren't going to be able to do much to Stafford to keep him from putting the ball in the air and aren't going to be able to do much to the ball once it gets in the air. That sounds like the perfect formula for an encore performance from the young quarterback. The lack of touchdowns passes allowed by the Jaguars defense is a little surprising alongside those other numbers, but maybe it's because they also struggle against the run. The Lions offense is built to pass, so you can expect Stafford to take advantage of this matchup. He's looking like a must-start option for this week.
News: Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford scored four touchdowns in Sunday's 28-24 win over the Seahawks. He threw for three and ran for one. Stafford completed 34 of his 49 attempts for 352 yards, and was intercepted once.
Analysis: Stafford's been pegged by many a Fantasy owner as having a down year, but he's actually ahead of his passing yardage pace from last year -- he's just been missing the touchdowns. This was Stafford's first multi-passing-touchdown game this season, and it hopefully sets the pace for the second half of the year. Seattle had allowed an average of 212.3 yards per game coming in, and Stafford torched the defense for almost twice that number. With Calvin Johnson blanketed for most of the game, he looked to his secondary receivers -- Titus Young and Ryan Broyles -- as well as both tight ends. Detroit is a dangerous offense, leading the NFL in pass attempts. And looking ahead to the Jags next Sunday, the stage is set for Stafford to carry the momentum over to Week 9.
News: Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford, who has been the subject of some serious vitriol from his frustrated owners, is actually closer to a decent season than we realize. Through six games in 2011 -- a year in which he threw for 5,038 yards -- Stafford had thrown for 1,729 yards. Through his first six games in 2012, Stafford has thrown for 1,754 yards. The major difference: at this point last year, he had 15 passing touchdowns. So far in 2012, he has five (with an additional two rushing).
Analysis: There hasn't been any real difference in Detroit's offensive philosophy. Last year, the team was first in passing attempts. So far this year, the Lions rank first in passing attempts per game, and second in passing yards per game. The team just can't seem to get the ball in the end zone. Their seven passing touchdowns this season (Shaun Hill passed for two) are the fifth-worst in the NFL. In Week 7 red zone action, Stafford was intercepted and his running backs fumbled twice. Eventually, this will right itself, and the Lions will get into the end zone -- the team generates too much offense for it to remain this way. For now, though, Stafford is a borderline start in standard leagues, and is best left on benches against a Seattle defense that holds quarterbacks to the third-lowest Fantasy point average in the NFL.
News: Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford's struggles continued in Week 7 against the Bears. Stafford completed just 28 of his 46 pass attempts for 261 yards in the 13-7 defeat and struggled to move Detroit's offense for much of the game. He also threw his sixth interception of the season as he was picked off by D.J. Moore near the end of the fourth quarter in the red zone. However, was able to salvage a few Fantasy points for owners as he did toss a late touchdown pass to rookie Ryan Broyles in the waning moments of the loss, which capped off an eight-play 58-yard scoring drive. Stafford completed a pass to eight different receivers and finished with 16 points in all CBSSports.com standard formats.
Analysis: Stafford really struggled Monday night but to be fair he did not get much help from his teammates. Detroit's running backs fumbled twice in the red zone and there were several dropped passes throughout the contest. Stafford was also knocked around for most of the game as Chicago's pass rush was in his face for most of the game and beat him up pretty good. However, Stafford also deserves some of the blame as the 24-year-old has been a major disappointment thus far. He has yet to throw more than one TD in a single game and has been picked off in four of his six contests thus far. Things won't get any easier for the Stafford and the Lions moving forward with the Seahawks heading to town in Week 8. Seattle has been stingy defending the pass this season and could cause problems for Detroit's bubbling offense. Fantasy owners should consider Stafford more of a low-end option next Sunday.
News: Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford looks to have a tough matchup on tap in Week 7 against the Bears. Chicago enters the contest ranked 14th in pass defense after allowing an average of 225 passing yards per contest. The Bears have surrendered just five touchdowns through the air while yielding an average of 8.2 Fantasy points to opposing QBs, which ranks first overall. In four career meetings against the division, rival Stafford has averaged 231.8 yards passing per contest and thrown four touchdowns and five interceptions.
Analysis: Stafford was finally able to register his first multi-touhdown game of the season in Detroit's overtime win over the Eagles last week but now will be a facing a very opportunistic Bears' defense. Chicago has already picked off a league-best 13 passes this season and forced at least one interception in all five games thus far. That means Stafford will have to be extra careful with the ball this week or he could help extend that streak for the Bears. While the 24-year-old has been a bit of a disappointment over his first five games, he has thrown for over 300 yards in each of his last two contests and has two total TDs and just one pick over that stretch. Hopefully, this is the start of a nice hot streak for the fourth-year gunslinger, who has only finished with 20-plus Fantasy points in two of his five games thus far. Consider Stafford a viable low-end option in most formats Monday night.
News:Matthew Stafford shook off a slow start to lead Detroit to a 26-23 overtime win against the Eagles Week 6. Stafford completed just 6 of 18 passes for 91 yards and one interception by halftime. Detroit was trailing 16-6 in the fourth quarter before Stafford came to life. He led Detroit on three scoring drives in the fourth quarter and then the game-winning field goal drive in overtime. Stafford's only touchdown pass was a 17-yard completion to Nate Burleson with 3:32 left in the fourth quarter. He completed 22 of 45 passes for 311 yards. Stafford had 7 rushing yards, which included a 1-yard touchdown run to begin the 17-point surge in the fourth quarter.
Analysis: It took Stafford five games to finally have a multi-touchdown game. Although he didn't do in the traditional way for a quarterback -- two touchdowns are two touchdowns. Stafford could have had three touchdowns, but Calvin Johnson had a 12-yard touchdown come off the board because of an offensive pass interference call. He also missed on two 1-yard touchdown passes before the game went to overtime. Stafford now has 300 passing yards in three games this season. Let's hope Week 6 is finally the start of a good run for the fourth-year quarterback. The Lions play the Bears in Week 7. It will be a tough matchup for Stafford, but he remains a viable Fantasy start.
News: Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford heads into Week 6 at Philadelphia a perfect 3-0 in his career against NFC East opponents. Stafford has thrown for 693 yards, seven touchdowns and two interceptions in those three games. If he looks to improve to 4-0 against NFC East teams, Stafford will have to beat an Eagles defense yielding 217.6 passing yards and 12.2 Fantasy points per week to quarterbacks, which is tied for fifth lowest in the NFL. Only two quarterbacks -- Kevin Kolb and Eli Manning -- have thrown for two touchdowns against Philadelphia and only Manning has surpassed 300 passing yards.
Analysis: It's been a rough start to the season for Stafford. He hasn't had a multi-touchdown game yet and has more interceptions (four) than touchdown passes (three). The return hasn't been there for Fantasy owners who invested a high-round pick on Stafford. Will he finally have a breakout performance Week 6? The matchup doesn't appear to be in his favor, but Manning did throw for 300-plus yards and two touchdowns, so Stafford could still have a good performance. Unless you have a more favorable matchup with another quarterback, then Stafford remains a viable Fantasy start Week 6.
News: Though he didn't have a turnover for the second straight week, Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford did continue an unsettling trend by scoring just one touchdown per game. Worse yet, it wasn't through the air. Stafford completed 30 of 51 passes for 319 yards with a goal-line lean for a rushing score. He had 14 yards on four carries. Stafford's receivers didn't help him as they had a litany of drops in the game including one by Brandon Pettigrew in the end zone and one by Calvin Johnson on the Lions' final drive. While the 51 attempts were a 2012 season-high, the 58.8 completion percentage was his worst on the year. Though he attempted a number of deep passes, only one connected: A 26-yard play to Nate Burleson.
Analysis: Fantasy owners have every right to be concerned with Stafford's game as he heads into his bye week. Sure, he wasn't entirely terrible against the Vikings -- he posted 19 Fantasy points in a standard-scoring league -- but people had designs of him being a huge producer week in and week out. It's ridiculous that he doesn't even have a two-touchdown game yet after he had at least that many in 12 games last year. He'll play at Philadelphia in Week 6, at Chicago in Week 7, and vs. Seattle in Week 8. Those are three tough matchups to look down the barrel at, and they come after the team's Week 5 bye. We'd stick with him -- in fact we'd buy low on him if the opportunity presented itself -- but there could be some tough moments in the next month or so. Some quarterbacks with favorable matchups during Stafford's bye in Week 5 include Andy Dalton (vs. Miami), Christian Ponder (vs. Tennessee) and Jay Cutler (at Jacksonville).
News: Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford (hip) is active and starting Week 4 against the Vikings, as expected. Stafford was listed as probable entering Sunday's game and was never seriously in jeopardy of missing the contest. Stafford hurt his hip last week in practice and then aggravated the issue Week 3 against Tennessee. Stafford should be fine against the Vikings, however. Minnesota has shown some improvement this year and is permitting an average of 20.3 Fantasy points per game to opposing quarterbacks.
Analysis: Stafford might have his hands full on Sunday with the Vikings defense, but his bigger test will be finishing the game healthy. He was unable to do that last week, but shouldn't be hindered against the Vikings. Stafford bounced back last year from two injury-riddled seasons by throwing for 5,000-plus yards, 41 touchdowns and 16 interceptions, helping Detroit end an 11-year postseason drought. But after a strong preseason, he is off to a sluggish start and has just one touchdown pass in each of his first three games. His potential is enough that he should be active in most Fantasy formats for the Week 4 game.
News: Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford (hamstring) is expected to start against the Vikings in Week 4 after not experiencing any problems during practice, the Detroit News reports. Stafford, who sat out Wednesday's session, hurt his hip last week in practice and aggravated the issue in a loss to Tennessee last Sunday. He ultimately left the game, but is expected to return this week, barring any setbacks and was listed as probable on the injury report. "I don't really consider Matt injured," Lions offensive coordinator Scott Linehan said. "He's just dealing with something that's uncomfortable. He's become a great pro. He's been through it and he knows how to manage things. He's learned how to get himself ready to play."
Analysis: Stafford bounced back last year from two injury-riddled seasons by throwing for 5,000-plus yards, 41 touchdowns and 16 interceptions, helping Detroit end an 11-year postseason drought. But after a strong preseason, he is off to a sluggish start and has just one touchdown pass in each of his first three games. At this point last season, he accounted for nine touchdowns and had multiple scores in his first six games. Stafford will attempt to rebound -- and stay healthy -- during Sunday's matchup against Minnesota. He passed for four touchdowns and no interceptions during two meetings with the Vikings last year, but Minnesota has shown some improvement this year and is permitting an average of 20.3 Fantasy points per game to opposing quarterbacks. Still, Stafford's potential for big games keeps him a high-end option in all Fantasy formats.
News: Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford (hip) returned to practice Thursday as the team prepares for Week 4 vs. Minnesota. Stafford took the first-team reps during skeleton drills, while Shaun Hill worked with the reserves. “It’s a good step,” he said after practice, per the team's official website. “I’m feeling better today than I was yesterday. ”Stafford appeared to be moving without limitations during individual drills. “Yeah, it was good,” Lions offensive coordinator Scott Linehan said of Stafford's return. “He got a lot of work in. But, he was out there and I think he feels a lot better.”
Analysis: This is definitely good news Fantasy owners. The fact Stafford practiced Thursday and worked with the first team means his chances of playing Week 4 have greatly increased. He still has to avoid a setback, but it's looking as though you might be able to use Stafford after all in Week 4.
News: Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford (hip) was unable to practice Wednesday as the team prepares for Week 4 vs. Minnesota. The Detroit Free Press reported Stafford was present at practice Wednesday and showing no signs of an injury. The Detroit News reported Stafford was on the field taking mental reps and had no wraps of bandages on his injury hip. Stafford said he would undergo treatment Wednesday and is unsure about his status for Sunday, but he feels he is progressing. "I feel better today than I did on Sunday," he said.
Analysis: The Lions have already said they are waiting until Friday to make a quarterback decision. It's still early in the practice week, so Stafford sitting out Wednesday isn't a major concern yet. But if he is out again Thursday, then it's time to panic. Shaun Hill would get the start if Stafford is out and the team has already said the playbook would remain the same if Hill has to start. Continue to track Stafford's progress, but you might consider adding Hill off waivers as a handcuff option in case Stafford is sidelined.
News: CBSSports.com NFL Insider Jason La Canfora reports the Lions are unsure if quarterback Matthew Stafford will be able to play Week 4 against the Vikings because of his muscle pull. The team is keeping its options open, but one source said Stafford is "one tough dude." If Stafford is out, then Shaun Hill will start at quarterback for Detroit. Coach Jim Schwartz did not comment on Stafford's MRI during his press conference Monday and said he will make a decision about his availability Friday. Pro Football Talk reports a league source said Stafford has a hamstring injury, but the expectation for now is that he will be OK.
Analysis: Stafford has had his durability issues throughout his career, but he finally stayed healthy for the most part in 2011 and turned in an outstanding campaign. He has struggled at the outset here in 2012 and now is dealing with an injury on top of his on-field performance problems. But despite Stafford's struggles, you are going to continue to start him in Fantasy because you likely used too high of a draft pick on Stafford. Continue to track his progress, but you might consider adding Hill off waivers as a handcuff option in case Stafford is sidelined.
News: Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford was leading his team down the field for what could have been the game-tying score in the fourth quarter Week 3 at Tennessee when Titans defensive back Alterraun Verner stripped the ball out of tight end Brandon Pettigrew's hands and returned it 72 yards for a touchdown. Stafford appeared to hurt his leg chasing down the runner and was forced to leave the game. He watched from the sidelines as backup Shaun Hill led the Lions to two quick scores to tie the game. Stafford finished 33 of 42 passing for 278 yards and a touchdown, connecting with Nate Burleson on a 3-yard toss in the fourth quarter. After the game, he said the injury was either to his hamstring or glut. He'll have an MRI Monday. “It’s something that had been bothering me all week and kind of felt it a couple plays during the game,” Stafford said. “I felt like if I tried to turn it on it would have been a lot worse than it is.”
Analysis: After a quiet first half in which the Lions mostly relied on wide receiver screens, Stafford finally began to look like himself with the team forced to play catchup in the second half. A second touchdown pass would have gone a long way to redeeming his Fantasy value after a lackluster first couple weeks, but unfortunately, Pettigrew's mistake eliminated that possibility. Stafford's Fantasy potential remains sky high with the weapons on the Lions offense -- you see what Hill was able to do with them, and he has only a fraction of the talent -- but right now, his status for Week 4 against the Vikings is up in the air. If he's able to go, you'll want him active in Fantasy, so keep an eye on his status leading up to the game.
News: Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford isn't off to the best start this season. With four interceptions to only two touchdown passes so far, his 73.2 quarterback rating is 27th in the league. But in Week 3 at Tennessee, he'll be facing a defense that has struggled in all facets of the game, including stopping the pass. The Titans have allowed the fifth-most Fantasy points to quarterbacks this season, which means Stafford and company should be in pretty good shape as long as they execute. "I think the biggest thing that teams are doing is testing our patience as an offense,” Stafford told FOX Sports Detroit. “They’re trying to figure out how to slow us down. That’s something we’ve got to continue to work on. I have to continue to work on as well. Just taking what the defense is giving up, picking and choosing the times to take shots (downfield). When we do take them, we’ve just got to hit them."
Analysis: Stafford had to face the 49ers in San Francisco last week, so you can give him a pass for that game. Still, he should have fared better against the Rams in Week 1. This matchup figures to be his best one yet, so he should finally perform like the elite quarterback you drafted him to be. Don't let his struggles the first two weeks scare you away from him now.
News: Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford entered Sunday’s game against the 49ers looking to bounce back from a subpar outing against the Rams in Week 1. While Stafford was able to avoid turning the ball over multiple times this week, San Francisco’s defense made life very tough for Stafford and the Lions, and Stafford struggled for most of the 27-19 loss. Stafford got off to a dreadful start, completing just 7 of 16 passes in the first half, for 67 yards and a badly overthrown interception that came nowhere close to his intended target on the play. He was more productive in the second half, but was unable to find the end zone until the very end of the game, when he threw a 9-yard touchdown pass to tight end Brandon Pettigrew with 1:29 on the clock. Stafford completed 19 of 32 passes for 230 yards and a touchdown, with the first quarter interception standing as his lone turnover.
Analysis: Stafford was one of the most productive quarterbacks in the league last season, so this has been a disappointing start to the season. At least he has an excuse for Week 2, as the 49ers are one of the toughest defenses in the NFL. He has put up 585 yards through two games, with just two touchdowns and four interceptions; at this point last season, he had seven touchdown passes and only two interceptions, so he is clearly behind the pace. The Lions have rushed for an average of 82.5 yards per game, so Stafford is being asked to do pretty much everything on his own, a tall task even given the weapons at his disposal. Stafford’s next opponent, the Titans, enter the game with a shaky pass defense, having allowed five touchdowns with just one interception through two games, so hopefully Stafford can figure it out. Stafford remains too talented to consider benching, so Fantasy owners have to ride with him in Week 3 in Tennessee.
News: Coming off a subpar performance in his first game of the season, the last thing Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford probably wants to see in Week 2 is a 49ers defense that ranked fourth in the NFL in yards allowed last season and just gave Aaron Rodgers fits in Week 1. Unfortunately, after struggling against the Rams last Sunday, Stafford has to head west to take on the 49ers and their fearsome pass rush in the second week of the season. Stafford did end up righting the ship against St. Louis, so he should have shaken off the rust in time for the 49ers. Stafford tossed a pair of touchdowns and had no interceptions in the teams' lone matchup last season, as he passed for 293 yards.
Analysis: The 49ers were more well known for their suffocating run defense last season, so the Lions may choose to air it out in order to open up some running room. Stafford is going to feel plenty of pressure, as San Francisco can bring heat on the quarterback even without the blitz, so he might be in for a long day. The 49ers ranked right in the middle of the pack at 16th in yards allowed through the air last season, but they picked off enough passes and racked up sack totals to make life difficult enough for quarterbacks, especially when opposing running games found no room to work. Still, Stafford almost reached 300 yards against them last season, and there is little reason to think he won't be able to do so again this week, so keep him active in all Fantasy formats for the game.
News: After a shaky first half, Detroit quarterback Matthew Stafford refused to relent during the Lions' season-opening 27-23 win over St. Louis on Sunday. Stafford stayed calm after throwing three interceptions before halftime for the first time in his career and led the Lions on an 80-yard, game-winning drive that included three passes of at least 18 yards. He connected on a 5-yard touchdown pass -- his first of the game -- to running back Kevin Smith with 10 seconds left in the fourth quarter to secure the victory. "It wasn't like he was just having a bad day," Detroit coach Jim Schwartz said. "He had a couple of bad plays. You have to have a demeanor that allows you to come back from that."
Analysis: Early on, it looked like Stafford had taken a step back after throwing for 5,000-plus yards and 41 touchdowns last season to help Detroit end an 11-year postseason drought. But he regrouped in the second half and finished 32 of 48 for 355 yards. In the first three quarters, Stafford struggled with his precision on in-routes over the middle of the field and overthrew his intended receivers. He was also plagued by drops from several Lions wideouts to produce a 66.7 completion percentage. Fantasy owners should certainly not panic about the early round draft pick, but he faces a tough challenge in Week 2 at San Francisco. He should still remain active in all Fantasy formats for the showdown.
News: Detroit quarterback Matthew Stafford attached his name next to an NFL legend with his sensational 2011 campaign in which he established franchise records with 5,038 passing yards and 41 touchdowns. The 24-year-old became the second-youngest quarterback in league history to amass more than 4,000 yards and 30-plus touchdowns in a season. Miami Hall of Fame signal-caller Dan Marino ranks first on the list. Stafford earns his first opportunity to duplicate his effort during the Lions' Week 1 matchup against St. Louis on Sunday.
Analysis: Stafford's campaign last year was impressive despite his young age. The former Georgia standout became just the third quarterback in NFL history to register 5,000-plus yards and 40-plus touchdowns. Stafford was aided greatly by superstar wide receiver Calvin Johnson (16 touchdowns) and the pair already showed great chemistry during the preseason. Stafford has elevated himself into the discussion of elite players and will face a Rams team that yielded an average of 16.1 points per game to opposing quarterbacks. He is a must-start option in all Fantasy formats.
News: Detroit quarterback Matthew Stafford alleviated all concerns of a possible injury when he lined up with the first team at practice Monday. Stafford showed no indications of being limited by the minor injury to his non-throwing hand and there was no sign of any cast. Stafford left last Saturday's preseason game at Oakland following a helmet-to-helmet hit in the second quarter. "I think the biggest thing for me was the fact that I had to come out of the game," he said. "Had it been a regular-season game, I'm sure I would've found a way to get back on that field."
Analysis: Stafford said he was initially a little scared by some swelling last weekend, but it turned out to be no big deal -- and he doesn't even really consider it an injury. After all, the talented 24-year-old has been hampered by injuries since he was selected with the top overall pick in the 2009 NFL Draft. But he showed he can be a superstar when healthy and threw for 5,038 yards last season, the first year he has played all 16 games. Stafford, who has completed 70.5 percent of his passes in the preseason, threw for 41 touchdowns last year. He could reach that mark again this season as the Lions boast one of the best receiving corps in the league. Fantasy owners should look to Stafford as the fourth quarterback selected in all drafts following Aaron Rodgers, Tom Brady and Drew Brees. He shouldn't last past the second round so target him early.
News: The Detroit Free Press reports Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford reiterated Sunday his hand injury isn't a concern. Stafford left Saturday's preseason game against the Raiders after two series because his non-throwing hand swelled up from a hit by Dave Tollefson early in the second quarter. “It was just, skin color just growing by the second,” Stafford said. “It was kind of scary. I didn’t know what was going on. But it’s fine now. It feels good.” Stafford also feels confident the first-string offense is ready for the start of the season. “I feel confident,” Stafford said. “I know what this offense can do, I know what we need to do to be successful.”
Analysis: Stafford is 24 of 34 for 303 yards and two touchdowns in three preseason games. Stafford likely won't play in the preseason finale, but healthy or not, he likely wasn't going to play or play just a series or two. “Whether or not I play is obviously not my decision and honestly I’ll do whatever they tell me to do,” Stafford said. The good news is that Stafford had a successful preseason and this injury is nothing serious. Stafford is coming off a breakout season in 2011 and Fantasy owners are banking on another big year. Stafford has been the fourth-most drafted Fantasy quarterback in CBSSports.com leagues behind Aaron Rodgers, Tom Brady and Drew Brees. Stafford shouldn't last past the second round in most Fantasy formats.
News: Detroit quarterback Matthew Stafford left the team's preseason game against the Raiders Saturday after injuring his left, non-throwing hand on a second-quarter pass attempt. However, X-rays were negative and Stafford told the official team website he would have kept playing had it been a regular-season game.
Analysis: Consider this a small reminder that Stafford has struggled with injuries in his career. Not until last season had he held up for 16 games and been an amazing passer. With that being the case his expectations are huge for 2012, as evidenced by his Top 12 average draft position in CBSSports.com drafts. Ideally we'd take him with a pick between 13th and 20th overall in standard drafts as a rock-solid No. 1 Fantasy quarterback -- albeit one who warrants a backup just in case of a serious injury.
News: Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford looked in mid-season form during Detroit's preseason game against the Ravens Friday night. Stafford completed 12 of his 17 passes for 187 yards and two touchdowns during his limited reps, including finding Calvin Johnson for a 18-yard strike in the first quarter. Stafford then connected with second-year wideout Titus Young on a 24-yard hookup in the second quarter, which would end up being his final play of the night. Stafford also registered a 57-yard reception during his four offensive series and completed passes to six different receivers before being removed in the second quarter.
Analysis: Stafford looked pretty sharp Friday night as he showed off some of the skills that made him such a success last season. The 24-year-old showed last season what he can do when healthy as he completed 63.5 percent of his passes for 5,038 yards and 41 touchdowns, which helped him claim the 2011 Associated Press NFL Comeback Player of the Year award. With Calvin Johnson flanked to his one side and the emergence of Titus Young on the other, there isn't much reason to believe Stafford can't once again put up big-time numbers again in 2012. Consider him a solid No. 1 Fantasy quarterback in all leagues on Draft Day, worthy of a second-round pick.
News: Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford played just three offensive series during Friday's preseason opener against the Browns. Stafford completed four of his seven pass attempts for 51 yards in the contest, including finding Calvin Johnson for a 27-yard connection on his final series of the night. He was intercepted on his second offensive series on a high throw intended for Brandon Pettigrew, but went on to complete three of his next four passes.
Analysis: Stafford was finally able to stay healthy last season and show Fantasy owners what he can do. The 24-year-old claimed the 2011 Associated Press NFL Comeback Player of the Year award after completing 63.5 percent of his passes for 5,038 yards -- only the fourth quarterback to go over 5,000 yards -- and 41 touchdowns. With Calvin Johnson on his side along with a number of excellent playmakers, there's no reason to believe that Stafford can't once again put up big-time numbers again next season. Consider him a solid No. 1 Fantasy quarterback in all leagues, worthy of a second-round pick.
News: NFL.com reports that Lions receiver Nate Burleson believes quarterback Matthew Stafford has the strongest arm in the league. That arm may just be getting stronger. "My teammates and I have been talking about it. He's getting stronger. People don't realize last year was his healing-up year from the shoulder surgery," Burleson said. "Imagine this year after a whole summer of working out (at) full strength and a season under his belt. He couldn't work out last year. Just imagine." Stafford reminds Burleson of his ex-teammate Daunte Culpepper in terms of arm strength. "Just a rocket. An absolute gun. Daunte broke my finger, man. I remember I was going in motion one time and I slapped Daunte on the butt super hard," Burleson said. "Everybody could hear it and he didn't like that stuff. And the ball was coming to me. He turned around and threw the ball so hard at me. I yelled 'This is all you got?' But my hands were stinging like crazy. I did the same thing to Stafford. Said, 'C'mon, let's see what you got!' I was running a crossing route and he whipped it. And you could hear it whistling through the air. And that's when I knew Stafford had the same skill set as Daunte."
Analysis: It's good to hear that Stafford's arm is getting stronger, and we hope he continues to improve this year. We consider him a solid No. 1 Fantasy quarterback in all leagues, and he is worth drafting in Round 2 in the majority of formats.
News: Detroit QB Matthew Stafford claimed the 2011 Associated Press NFL Comeback Player of the Year award after beating out six other players who received votes from a nationwide panel of 50 media members. Stafford fought through injuries his first two seasons, then threw for more than 5,000 yards in 2011 to lead Detroit to its first playoff berth in 12 years. He received 21 votes, six more than Cleveland LB D’Qwell Jackson. San Francisco QB Alex Smith finished third, followed by Carolina WR Steve Smith, Denver DL Elvis Dumervil, New England DL Andre Carter and Giants QB Eli ManningAnalysis: Stafford not only had a great comeback year from shoulder and knee injuries in his first two pro seasons, but he was exceptional at leading comebacks in games. He helped Detroit become the first team in NFL history to rally and win four games after being down by at least 13 points, including 20-plus point comebacks at Dallas and Minnesota. He completed 63.5 percent of his passes for 5,038 yards -- only the fourth quarterback to go over 5,000 yards -- and 41 touchdowns. Fantasy owners should target him as a No. 1 QB option in 2012 drafts.
News: Lions QB Matthew Stafford tried to shoulder the load on Saturday against the Saints. He threw 43 passes in the game, completing 28 of them. Stafford finished with 380 passing yards -- 211 to Calvin Johnson -- and three touchdowns. He was also picked off twice by New Orleans, which went on to beat Detroit 45-28. He was not sacked once in the contest.
Analysis: Entering the postseason Stafford was on fire as he threw for more than 1,500 yards in his last four regular season games. He is one of four quarterbacks in the NFL to have thrown for more than 5,000 yards in a season and also posted a 41-to-16 touchdown-to-interception ratio this season. Stafford has one of the best receivers -- if not the best -- in the NFL with Johnson. As long as the two of them keep producing, Fantasy owners will be happy. Consider Stafford a No. 1 QB option on Draft Day in 2012.
News: Detroit QB Matthew Stafford passed for a career-high 520 yards and five touchdowns during the Lions' 45-41 loss to Green Bay in Week 17. Stafford connected on 36 of 59 passes as he topped 50 attempts for the fourth time this season. He hit four different receivers for touchdowns, including two to rookie WR Titus Young. "We're going to use this as motivation," Stafford said. "We had a chance and didn't get it done, so we've got to get out there and start making it happen. We've got to get on a run here. That's what it's all about in the playoffs, getting hot and hopefully we can get that going."
Analysis: Stafford's outing would have been more impressive if not for the performance by his counterpart, Green Bay fill-in QB Matt Flynn, who registered six touchdown passes and 480 yards. According to STATS LLC, it was the first time in NFL history opposing quarterbacks each threw for 400-plus yards and five-plus touchdowns in a game. "Flynn played a great game," Stafford said. "Their guys were making plays all over the field and scoring points." Fantasy owners should continue to roll with Stafford in playoff formats as he makes his postseason debut next week.
News: Detroit QB Matthew Stafford has already led the Lions into the NFL playoffs for the first time since 1999. Now, he hopes to add to his impressive passing totals during Week 17 against Green Bay. Stafford has passed for 4,518 yards and a team-record 36 touchdowns to become the second-youngest quarterback in NFL history to record 4,000-plus passing yards and 30-plus touchdowns in season (Dan Marino).
Analysis: Despite Stafford's stellar season, he was left off the Pro Bowl roster earlier this week. However, he said he is not fazed by the decision heading into Sunday's game. "Everybody has different agendas, and they vote for whoever they want to to vote for," he said. "The great part about our team is we’re truthfully not worried about it." In his previous meeting against the Packers, Stafford was picked off three times. Green Bay is permitting an average of 18.2 Fantasy points per game to opposing quarterbacks. Consider Stafford a No. 1 Fantasy QB for Week 17.
News: Lions QB Matthew Stafford’s second-quarter TD pass to Kevin Smith during Week 16 against San Diego was Stafford’s franchise-record 35th TD pass of the season. The play also gave Stafford 4,343 passing yards, enough to eclipse Scott Mitchell’s single-season yardage mark from 1995. The Lions would go on to win 38-10, with Stafford going 29-of-36 for 373 yards and three touchdowns in the win. The victory gave the Lions ten wins on the season and clinched a playoff berth, something they haven’t accomplished since 1999.
Analysis: Since throwing three interceptions on Thanksgiving in Week 12 against Green bay, Stafford has been on some kind of run. He has passed for at least 300 yards in three of his four games, with 10 touchdowns and only one interception in that span. He has been one of the top quarterbacks in the NFL this year from a Fantasy perspective, though he does have to face Green Bay in Week 17, so he might be in for a worse day than what he’s done recently. Plus, with a playoff spot locked up, it’s possible that Stafford could end up not playing the whole game if the Lions decide to rest their starters, which would obviously impact his value negatively. Check back mid-week to see what the Lions’ coaching staff is looking to do for the game. If he plays, he’s a No. 1 Fantasy QB for Week 17.
News: Lions QB Matthew Stafford heads into Week 16 against San Diego playing extremely well. Stafford has thrown six touchdown passes and no interceptions in his last two games against Minnesota and Oakland. Stafford is 3-0 against AFC teams this season with 11 touchdowns and just one pick. Stafford has passed for 4.145 yards this season and has a team-record 33 touchdowns, becoming the second youngest QB in NFL history with at least 4,000 yards and 30 scores, joining Dan Marino on that lofty list.
Analysis: Stafford is far and away the best quarterback to match up against the Chargers since San Diego met Aaron Rodgers of the Packers Week 9. Rodgers threw four touchdowns and was not picked off in that game and Stafford could have a similar outing with Calvin Johnson available to catch passes. That combination is all Fantasy owners need to know heading into the Week 16 game. Stafford to Johnson is more than enough to make Stafford a must-start No. 1 Fantasy QB for the game against the Chargers.
News: Lions QB Matthew Stafford passed for two fourth quarter-touchdowns and led the team on a 98-yard last-minute drive to put the Lions over the Raiders 28-27 in Week 15. “We had a decent amount of time,” Stafford said of the last drive, in which he passed for 91 yards and a 6-yard game-winning touchdown to Calvin Johnson. “I trust the guys in front of me blocking, and the guys out there running routes can make anything happen. Guys stepped up and made plays. He passed for 391 yards and four touchdowns in the win. He did not throw an interception in the contest. Stafford attempted 52 passes in the win, the seventh time he’s attempted at least 40 this season.
Analysis: Stafford has become one of the best quarterbacks in Fantasy this year, and games like Sunday’s are a reason why. He has thrown four or more touchdowns three times on the season, and that last drive was the work of a supremely confident passer. Stafford has never faced his Week 16 opponent, San Diego before, but he should be able to do well against them, as they allow the 11th most Fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks in the league. Consider Stafford a high-end No. 1 Fantasy quarterback for the matchup.
News: Lions QB Matthew Stafford avoided throwing an interception in Week 14 against Minnesota, the first time since Week 8 that he avoided a turnover. He hopes to keep that streak up in Week 15, but he might face something of an uphill battle against the Raiders’ ball-hawking secondary. The Raiders currently rank 11th in the NFL with 15 interceptions, and seven of those have come in their last four games. “You look at their depth chart, and it’s about as good as anybody’s in the NFL,” Stafford said during a conference call with Bay Area media. “They may not be (ranked) high in yards per game or points per game, but they’re high in sacks and interceptions, and they’re a playmaking defense.” Stafford is in the midst of a breakout campaign, but the interceptions remain the lone blemish on what has otherwise been an elite season, as only five players have thrown more picks.
Analysis: Stafford has never faced the Raiders in his career, but the Raiders do present a pretty good Fantasy matchup for the third-year quarterback, despite their penchant for picks. The Raiders have allowed the fourth-most Fantasy points to opposing QBs in the league, in part because of the large number of touchdowns they allow. Stafford has been one of the top Fantasy quarterbacks in the NFL this year in spite of his high interception totals, and should be considered a No. 1 Fantasy QB for Week 15.
News: For only the second time this season, Lions QB Matthew Stafford threw fewer than 30 times, but he made the most of his attempts in a 34-28 win over the Vikings in Week 14. Stafford completed 20 of 29 passes for 227 yards, and for the first time since Week 8, he did not throw an interception. Though Stafford did not help Fantasy owners much with passing yardage, he did connect with WR Titus Young and TE Brandon Pettigrew for touchdowns. He also ran the ball twice for 4 yards.
Analysis: Stafford had thrown 10 picks over his previous four games, but a fractured finger on his throwing hand may have played a role in some of those interceptions. It also helped that he faced a Vikings secondary that hasn't induced many turnovers. The Raiders should pose a stiffer challenge in Week 15, but Stafford could still be worth a start in most formats.
News: Lions QB Matthew Stafford passed for a season-high 408 yards in Week 13 at the Saints, and he could approach that level once again. In Week 14, Stafford will face the Vikings, who have the 26th-ranked passing defense. The Vikings have allowed more passing touchdowns (24) than any other team this season. One problem that has plagued Stafford in recent weeks is interceptions, as he has been picked off 10 times over his last four games. However, only the Colts have fewer interceptions than the Vikings do so far this year.
Analysis: Stafford is normally a reliable start in just about any Fantasy format, but he gets an especially favorable matchup this week. In his first meeting with Minnesota this year, Stafford threw for 378 yards and a pair of touchdowns. Look for similar production in Week 14, making Stafford a must-start QB option.
News: Lions QB Matthew Stafford was able to rack up the yards in Week 13 against the Saints but unfortunately he was unable to come away with the win. He completed 31 off 44 passes for a season-high 408 yards with a touchdown and an interception in the 31-17 loss. His lone scoring strike on the evening came in the third quarter when he hooked up with RB Maurice Morris from 9 yards out. He was picked off by DB Tracy Porter late in the game. Stafford posted a 97.5 passer rating in the defeat.
Analysis: Stafford had to throw the ball a ton to keep up with the Saints on Sunday and it didn't help that RB Kevin Smith left with an injury in the third quarter. He had to have his left foot re-taped after taking a big hit in the first half but did not miss any time on the field. The 23-year-old continues to rack up the yards for the Lions and now has a 27-to-14 touchdown-to-interception ratio on the year. He should have continued success with Minnesota up next on the schedule so consider Stafford a No. 1 Fantasy QB for Week 14. When he faced the Vikings earlier in the year, Stafford threw for 378 yards with two touchdowns.
News:Matthew Stafford enters Week 13 against the Saints with 3,113 passing yards thus far, which is the most ever by a Lions quarterback through 11 games. His 26 touchdowns also ties him for second-most in franchise history for a season. New Orleans ranks 27th in the league in pass defense, giving up nearly 254 yards per game, and have allowed an average of 18.7 Fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks.
Analysis: After tossing just four interceptions through the first eight games Stafford has been picked off nine times his last three times out, including three against the Packers on Thanksgiving. He has still be able to rack up the yards, however, and has seven touchdowns over that span. He will likely have to throw a ton to keep up with the Saints on Sunday and should be in line for another productive performance. Consider Stafford a No. 1 Fantasy QB for Week 13.
News: Detroit QB Matthew Stafford threw without the glove that protected a fractured finger on his throwing hand Tuesday for the first time since Detroit's bye week. Stafford claimed the glove didn’t affect his passing, but he threw nine interceptions while wearing it, compared to just four during the eight games he played without wearing gloves. However, he also tossed seven touchdown passes and ranks fourth overall in the NFL with 26 total.
Analysis: Stafford's sterling production has slowed since the beginning of the season, but he remains a top Fantasy option entering Week 13 at New Orleans. He has shrugged off several injuries this year and thrown for at least one touchdown pass in every game, including 12 touchdowns to star WR Calvin Johnson. The interceptions have been a little concerning, but some have come on tipped passes, and Stafford has still completed 70 percent of his passes in the past outings. The Saints are yielding an average of 18.7 Fantasy points per game to opposing quarterbacks and just surrendered 406 passing yards to Giants QB Eli Manning last Monday. Consider Stafford a No. 1 Fantasy QB.
News: Lions QB Matthew Stafford followed up a five-touchdown game with one of the ugliest starts of his career. Stafford was picked off three times and didn't even attempt many deep passes vs. the Packers on Thanksgiving, leaving him with some pretty ugly numbers. He completed 32 of 45 passes -- 16 to his running backs out of the backfield at close range -- for 276 yards. A touchdown with 0:11 left to Calvin Johnson further padded his stats, as did a total of 31 rush yards on four carries. He also threw a two-point conversion to Titus Young.
Analysis: The Lions had two plays for over 20 yards: A 22-yard catch by Calvin Johnson to convert a third down and a 22-yard run by Stafford when the Packers defense was absent from the middle of the field. But the Lions' took what the Packers defense gave them and Stafford settled for short passes, which became predictable and led to two of the three interceptions he threw (a third came on a tipped pass). Stafford might not have any choice but to throw when he plays at the Saints in Week 13, so Fantasy owners shouldn't be nervous about starting him then.
News: Lions QB Matthew Stafford is hoping Thanksgiving against the Packers goes better this time around. The last and only time Stafford has faced Green Bay in his career came on Thanksgiving 2009 and the young quarterback went 20 of 43 for 213 yards in that one with one touchdown and four interceptions. Green Bay as a team is much better this time around, but the pass defense has not been. In fact, the Packers are allowing the most Fantasy points per game to opposing quarterbacks in the NFL this season at 24.5 a game.
Analysis: Stafford should be able to put up big numbers on Thanksgiving against a Green Bay team giving up plenty of yardage through the air. Stafford is coming off a game in which he went 28 for 36 for 335 yards with five touchdowns and two interceptions against Carolina. You can expect the Lions to throw the ball early and often in the Week 12 Thursday game. Stafford should have an excellent performance this time around against the Packers on Thanksgiving, and should be considered an easy choice as a No. 1 Fantasy QB.
News:Matthew Stafford sure didn't look good early vs. Carolina in Week 11, completing just 4 of 9 passes for 46 yards with two interceptions. He made up for it. Not getting any kind of pressure in his face, Stafford carved up the Panthers for 335 yards and five touchdowns on 28-of-36 passing (he missed on three passes after the slow start). The Lions got a huge boost from Kevin Smith both on the ground and as a receiver, setting up their passing threat as one the Panthers couldn't handle. Stafford said he never lost confidence after two early interceptions en route to his five-touchdown performance. "I know what I can do," Stafford said. "I know what my teammates can do. They were making great plays for me all day. That's what makes this offense go."
Analysis: We had a feeling Stafford would bounce back and he did. Up next: The Packers come to Detroit on a short week for a Thanksgiving showdown. Green Bay's pass defense got kicked around by Josh Freeman in Week 11 despite beating the Bucs, so Stafford could avenge his last game against them: A four-interception effort in 2009. Expect Stafford to stay hot, albeit with some turnovers, against the Packers in his next game.
News: Speaking with the media on Thursday, Lions offensive coordinator Scott Linehan said that the elements during the Lions' game at Chicago played a bigger factor in Matthew Stafford's bad game than the broken finger on his throwing hand. Stafford threw for 329 yards and one late touchdown with four interceptions (two returned for touchdowns) last week at the Bears. When asked by CBSSports.com Rapid Reporter John Kreger about whether he'd change the gameplan because of Stafford's injury, Linehan said he might adjust some things, but that's about it. "There's rarely a season where a quarterback's going to feel 100 percent, so you try to go with what we think is going to work," Linehan said. "We didn't know [that the injury would impact him] because he was able to practice through the week and I thought it wasn't even an issue for him once he played in the game. It was more the elements than anything, in my opinion."
Analysis: Stafford will take on the Panthers in Week 11, a defense that has allowed one passing score in four straight games with only three multi-touchdown passers allowed on the year. A lot of that has to do with teams running the ball a ton on Carolina, not throwing, but with the Lions' run game a mess, Stafford might have to be responsible for putting up points. We think he'll be worth starting as a No. 1 option in his next matchup.
News: Lions QB Matthew Stafford said X-rays showed his injured finger on his throwing hand is healing and he had no setbacks in the game Week 10 against the Bears despite throwing four interceptions.
Analysis: The Lions blamed the rough winds for Stafford's accuracy issues in Week 10. We shall see if that is the case in Week 11 since the Lions will be playing in a dome against the Panthers. Despite the rough game, Stafford remains a No. 1 Fantasy QB for Week 11.
News: Detroit QB Matthew Stafford hit Calvin Johnson on the first play of the day for the Lions in Week 10 against the Bears. It went downhill for Stafford after that. He struggled with his accuracy between the wind and the glove on his right hand to protect his injured finger. He also threw his first interception in the second half of a game this season, but it would not be his last. Two of his four interceptions on the day were returned for touchdowns. He threw for 329 yards and one late touchdown to TE Tony Scheffler. The Lions would go on to lose the game, 37-13, in a chipping contest.
Analysis: Stafford blamed the wind, not his finger for his poor showing in Week 10, but regardless Fantasy owners are not pleased with his performance. He also pulled defender D.J. Moore to the ground after one of his picks, which started a melee between the two teams. The Lions face the Panthers next week, a team that is allowing 223.9 passing yards per contest this season. Fantasy owners should consider Stafford a low-end No. 1 QB option and hope for a better showing than he had against the Bears.
News: Lions QB Matthew Stafford was active, as expected, for Sunday's contest against the Bears. He's been dealing with a right finger and ankle injury, but was able to practice in full the past week. He enters Sunday's game with a 112.4 passer rating in the second half, which ranks second best in the NFL. He has completed 61.6 percent of his passes after halftime and owns an impressive 11-to-0 touchdown-to-interception ratio. Chicago ranks 26th in the league in pass defense, giving up more than 264 yards per game, and has allowed an average of 19.2 Fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks.
Analysis: Stafford threw for 219 yards with a touchdown in his first meeting with the Bears this year and comes off the bye week having racked up 1,202 yards with 10 passing touchdowns over his last five games. Most of his success has come when he throws to WR Calvin Johnson, who has caught 11 of his 19 touchdown passes. With Chicago struggling against the pass thus far, consider Stafford a No. 1 Fantasy QB for Week 10.
News: Detroit QB Matthew Stafford (right finger, ankle) is listed as probable for Week 10 at Chicago, but is expected to start without issue. Stafford was a full participant in practice throughout the past week. He enters Sunday's game with a 112.4 passer rating in the second half, which ranks second best in the NFL. He has completed 61.6 percent of his passes after halftime and owns an impressive 11-to-0 touchdown-to-interception ratio. Chicago ranks 26th in the league in pass defense, giving up more than 264 yards per game, and has allowed an average of 19.2 Fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks.
Analysis: Stafford will likely appear on the injury report for most of the remainder of the season, but his status is nothing to fret about this week. Stafford threw for 219 yards with a touchdown in his first meeting with the Bears this year and comes off the bye week having racked up 1,202 yards with 10 passing touchdowns over his last five games. Most of his success has come when he throws to WR Calvin Johnson, who has caught 11 of his 19 touchdown passes. With Chicago struggling against the pass thus far, consider Stafford a No. 1 Fantasy QB for Week 10.
News: Lions QB Matthew Stafford enters Week 10 against the Bears with a 112.4 passer rating in the second half, which ranks second in the NFL. He has completed 61.6 percent of his passes after halftime through the first eight games with an 11-to-0 touchdown-to-interception ratio. Chicago ranks 26th in the league in pass defense, giving up over 264 yards per game, and have allowed an average of 19.2 Fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks.
Analysis: Stafford threw for 219 yards with a touchdown and an interception when he faced Chicago earlier in the year and comes off the bye week having racked up 1,202 yards with 10 touchdowns through the air over his last five games. Most of his success has come when he throws to WR Calvin Johnson, who has caught 11 of his 19 touchdown passes, but the 23-year-old has really come into his own in his third season in the NFL. With how poor the Bears have ton against the pass thus far, consider Stafford a No. 1 Fantasy QB for Week 10.
News: Lions QB Matthew Stafford hinted Sunday that he wasn't 100 percent recovered from his ankle injury despite leading Detroit to an impressive win over the Broncos. On Monday, coach Jim Schwartz echoed those sentiments while not being overly concerned about his QB. "I don't know that the ankle was really an issue in the game. Though he wasn't 100 percent," Schwartz said.
Analysis: Stafford might not have been 100 percent healthy for Week 8, but Fantasy owners aren't going to complain. Stafford put up 267 yards and three touchdowns without throwing a pick, so it was a very successful Fantasy day. Stafford might remain on the injury report moving forward, but at least he gets the Week 9 bye to rest. If his status changes for Week 10 at Chicago, then we will let you know. But otherwise be prepared to start Stafford when Detroit takes the field again.
News: Detroit QB Matthew Stafford finished 21 of 30 passing for 267 yards and three touchdowns during the Lions' 45-10 rout of Denver in Week 8. Stafford was questionable on the injury report but came out of the game unscathed after his injury suffered against Atlanta. "It feels good now," Stafford said. "It feels way better after a win than a loss. It's going to be fine. It's not a big deal." Stafford finished with three touchdowns for the third time this season and has not thrown an interception in his past three games. He also tied a career high with a 21-yard scramble.
Analysis: Stafford hardly showed any ill effects from a sprained right ankle sustained a week earlier and connected with three different receivers for touchdowns on Sunday. One of those scores was a 56-yard strike to WR Calvin Johnson and marked the fourth time this season he has registered a pass of at least 50 yards. Stafford also finished with a robust 130.8 QB rating, also a season high. He'll receive additional time to heal with ankle as the Lions are idle in Week 9. Fantasy owners should view him as a No. 1 Fantasy WR in Week 10 against Chicago.
News: Detroit QB Matthew Stafford is officially active and will start in Week 8 against Denver after dealing with an ankle injury in practice over the past week. Stafford, who was considered questionable, suffered the injury on the offense's final play of the game during the Lions' loss to Atlanta in Week 7.
Analysis: Stafford wasn't certain he would be able to play, but it appears he will be good to go as Detroit attempts to halt a two-game losing streak. The oft-injured Stafford has played in all seven games this season and completed 60 percent of his passes for 1,912 yards with 16 touchdowns and four interceptions. Consider him a No. 1 Fantasy QB for Sunday's game against one of the league's weakest teams.
News: According to ESPN, Lions QB Matthew Stafford will start Week 8 at Denver. He's officially listed as questionable and is considered a game-time decision because of an ankle injury that limited him in practice this week.
Analysis: Lions coach Jim Schwartz has been optimistic about Stafford playing all along, but Stafford hasn't been as certain. He was injured on the offense's final play in Week 7, but he said he would have tried to return if the Lions had gotten another possession. Though he's coming off his worst performance this season, Stafford is still a No. 1 Fantasy QB. You want him active for this matchup if he's able to play.
News: Detroit QB Matthew Stafford (ankle) wouldn’t confirm Friday whether he will be able to play in Week 8 against Denver. Stafford was limited in practice Friday and officially listed as questionable on the injury report. Asked if he was healthy enough to play, Stafford said he didn’t know. Stafford limped off the field in last Sunday’s loss to Atlanta and was limited in practice Wednesday and Thursday. “He’s better,” coach Jim Schwartz said. “Hopefully we can keep him on the track. I don’t know officially if he’s a game-time decision, but we won’t announce anything before then."
Analysis: If Stafford has a setback, backup QB Shaun Hill would be the next option, a player Fantasy owners should be prepared to pounce on. Hill threw for 2,686 yards and 16 touchdown passes in 11 games last season while filling in for Stafford, who continues to be hampered by injuries. Stafford has played in all seven games this season and completed 60 percent of his passes for 1,912 yards with 16 touchdowns and four interceptions. The Broncos are allowing an average of 23 Fantasy points per game to opposing quarterbacks this season. Consider Stafford a No. 1 Fantasy QB if he's able to play, but owners should have a spare roster spot if Hill requires a quick addition on Sunday.
News: Lions QB Matthew Stafford, who is recovering from an ankle injury suffered Week 7, once again practiced with the first-team offense Friday for a second straight day. Coach Jim Schwartz has said Stafford will start Week 8 at Denver as long as he is healthy. Schwartz said Friday that Stafford was better in practice than he was Thursday, but he did not disclose whether or not his quarterback would start Sunday.
Analysis: The fact Stafford practiced with the first-team again on Friday is a strong sign that he will play Sunday as long as he doesn't suffer a setback. The Lions definitely need him to help stop a two-game losing skid. Fantasy owners should prepare to start Stafford in Week 8.
News: Lions QB Matthew Stafford (ankle) practiced Thursday after being limited to individual reps on Wednesday. Coach Jim Schwartz said Wednesday that Stafford would start Week 8 against the Broncos if he is active, despite Shaun Hill getting first-team reps during practice this week. Stafford was working with the first-team offense Thursday, while Hill returned to the backup role. "He is improved today over yesterday and I think that he’s on a pretty good track right now," Schwartz said Thursday, adding on SiriusXM NFL Radio that it's "still too early to tell" if he'll be ready for Sunday.
Analysis: The fact Stafford is back practicing and working with the starting offense is a great sign. Now, we just have to hope he doesn't have a setback before Sunday. Have a healthier alternative available just in case, but it seems as though Fantasy owners should prepare to start Stafford in Week 8.
News: Lions QB Matthew Stafford (ankle) was spotted at practice Wednesday doing individual drills during the session open to the media. Shaun Hill, however, took the first-team snaps when the Lions went to team drills. "It feels OK," Stafford said of his injury. "It's sore, obviously, but its made progress since Sunday. Hopefully it will keep making progress." Stafford said his knee is fine, but the ankle is what remains the problem. "Getting better every day," coach Jim Schwartz said. "Hopefully we can keep him on that track. If he's able to go on Sunday, he will. He's our starting quarterback, but we got to be prepared in any case."
Analysis: It's good that Stafford was in pads Wednesday, but perhaps the team is waiting to see how his ankle responds to individual work before putting him in there for more intense workouts. Don't be surprised if this is a situation you have to follow up until inactives in Week 8. Hopefully, that won't be the case and we get a positive confirmation before Sunday. Feel free to play it safe and add Hill to your roster if you're relying on Stafford, but if the stud QB is healthy then you should start him in Fantasy.
News: According to the Detroit Free Press, Lions QB Matthew Stafford told a local radio station in Detroit that the injury on his ankle is "just a sprain and kind of in a weird spot." Stafford, who sustained the injury during last Sunday's loss to the Falcons, is being considered day to day at this point by the team. "We're treating it, doing the best we can, trying to get it as healthy as possible for a chance to play this week," Stafford added.
Analysis: Stafford's outlook of his injury seemed to be a little gloomier than coach Jim Schwartz's on Monday, but it is still way too early in the week to tell if he will be able to play in Week 8. Fantasy owners should obviously continue to monitor his status over the next few days to see if he is able to practice. While Stafford didn't have a great performance last game against Atlanta, he has been one of the few pleasant surprises this season and is still worth starting in Fantasy when healthy because of his potential to post big numbers.
News: Lions coach Jim Schwartz said Monday that QB Matthew Stafford, who limped off the field Week 7 against the Falcons, is "no more than day to day" with an ankle injury. The Lions travel to Denver in Week 8. "He went home in a boot for his ankle," Schwartz said. "He is no more than day-to-day. We'll see where he is on Wednesday and hopefully we can get him back on the practice field. If he had a broken bone, he would be more than day-to-day."
Analysis: This is probably the best news we can hope for outside of the fact Schwartz saying Stafford is going to play Sunday. It doesn't sound like an injury that will keep him sidelined several weeks, but we still need to track his progress leading up to Week 8. Stafford didn't have a great performance Sunday, but he is still worth starting in Fantasy when healthy because of his potential to post big numbers.
News: Lions QB Matthew Stafford, who was coming off what some considered a down performance Week 6 against the 49ers, hit a new low against the Falcons in Week 7. Limited early by penalties and a surprisingly effective pass rush, Stafford had only 5 passing yards at the end of the first quarter and 47 on 5 of 11 passing at the end of the first half. For the game, he went 15 for 32 for 183 yards and a touchdown, throwing for less than 200 yards for the first time and throwing for fewer than two touchdowns for the first time. He limped off the field after the Lions' final offensive play of the game and was set to get X-rays afterward, according to the Detroit News. According to ProFootballTalk.com, he'll have an MRI on both his knee and his ankle. “I can’t really tell (where it hurts) right now,” Stafford said after the game. Stafford added he was going to try and play if Detroit's defense got the ball back, but the Falcons made that a moot point by picking up a first down and running out the clock.
Analysis: Stafford's injury didn't seem particularly serious when it happened, but according to CBSSports.com Rapid Reports, he was in a walking boot while attending a postgame dinner function. We'd feel better about it if he had gotten a chance to return before the end of the game. Overall, he had a disappointing performance, struggling with his accuracy thanks in part to a heavy pass rush. Certainly, it's not what Stafford owners expected from their star quarterback against a Falcons defense that entered the game ranked 27th against the pass. Stafford has been such a consistent source of yardage and touchdowns this season that you shouldn't lose confidence in him after one bad game. Assuming his ankle and knee are fine -- and he's reportedly optimistic -- he'll remain a No. 1 Fantasy QB for Week 8 at Denver.
News: Lions QB Matthew Stafford, coming off a down performance in which he was under constant pressure and sacked five times by the 49ers defense, will be facing a Falcons defense in Week 7 that has recently discovered a pass rush of its own with John Abraham and Jonathan Babineaux back from injury and Ray Edwards getting used to a new defensive scheme. As you might expect, the Falcons will be aiming to attack the quarterback in Week 7, and they'll have an easier time of it with big-play RB Jahvid Best expected out with a concussion. Still, the Falcons have allowed the eight-most Fantasy points per game to opposing quarterbacks this season, ranking 27th against the pass.
Analysis: The Falcons have given up their share of passing yards this season, which is reason to believe Stafford will have a big game. Then again, the 49ers defense exposed a game plan for beating the Lions in Week 6, and the Falcons are in prime position to emulate it with their pass rush up to speed. Still, from a personnel standpoint, the Falcons defense doesn't compare to the 49ers defense, and even in that supposed "bad" game, Stafford still threw for nearly 300 yards and two touchdowns. The Lions will probably lean on him all the more with Best sidelined, which means the numbers will be there for him, as always. Keep Stafford active as a No. 1 Fantasy QB.
News: Just as he has done all season, QB Matthew Stafford came on strong in the second half, but it wasn't enough as the Lions lost to the 49ers, 25-19, in Week 6. Stafford entered halftime with only 110 passing yards, but he finished the game completing 28 of 50 pass attempts for a total of 293 yards with no interceptions. He also extended his string of games with at least two touchdown passes to eight, dating back to last season, as he connected with TE Brandon Pettigrew and WR Nate Burleson for scores. Stafford rushed once for nine yards as well.
Analysis: Coming into Week 6, Stafford compiled a passer rating of 126.7 in the second half, as compared to 81.3 in the first half, and he continued the pattern against the 49ers. Though the Lions' ground attack couldn't get enough going to help propel the team to a win, Stafford is doing plenty to help Fantasy owners to win week in and week out, even if he does get off to slow starts. He should continue to put up big numbers in Week 7 when he faces a mediocre Falcons pass defense, making him a reliable No. 1 Fantasy QB option.
News: With a pair of touchdown passes in Week 5 against the Bears, Lions QB Matthew Stafford tied a team record with 19 touchdown passes over a seven-game span. Stafford will look to build on his record pace in Week 6, when he faces the 49ers, who rank in the bottom third of the league in passing yards allowed per game. Stafford has thrown two touchdown passes or more in every game so far this year, while the 49ers have allowed opposing quarterbacks to throw for at least two touchdowns in three different games through the first five weeks of the season.
Analysis: The 49ers' mediocre pass defense should not be a deterrent to Stafford, who trails only Aaron Rodgers and Tom Brady in touchdown passes this season. It's not clear yet whether Stafford can keep up his current pace over the entire season, but he has shown Fantasy owners enough to be trusted as a No. 1 QB option. He should be starting in nearly all leagues for Week 6.
News: Lions QB Matthew Stafford threw a pair of touchdown passes in Week 5 against the Bears. Stafford was able to hook up with WR Calvin Johnson on a 73-yard touchdown strike in the second quarter, which put Detroit up 7-0. He then found TE Brandon Pettigrew on a 18-yard scoring strike in the third quarter, capping off a seven-play, 67-yard drive. Stafford completed 19 of his 26 pass attempts for 219 yards in the 24-13 win, but did throw his fourth interception of the season. Still, he completed a pass to eight different receivers in the victory and finished with a QB rating of 107.7.
Analysis: Stafford was able to find the end zone twice more on Monday night and has now thrown at least two touchdown passes in every game this season. He has thrown 13 total touchdowns on the season --matching his career high -- and the 219 yards he racked up against Chicago were actually a season-low. Still, Stafford has clearly taken his play to another level this season and could establish himself as an elite option if he can maintain his current pace. He will look to keep the Lions rolling along when the 49ers come to town in Week 6. San Francisco is allowing 264 passing yards a game thus far, so look for Stafford to try and air it out next Sunday. Consider him a No. 1 Fantasy QB heading into his next matchup.
News: Detroit QB Matthew Stafford played in just three games during the 2010 season as he was limited again by injuries. At the forefront of his issues was an injured right shoulder he sustained against Chicago in the season opener. Stafford, who has thrown for at least 240 yards in every game this season, will face the Bears on Monday night in Week 5 for the first time since Julius Peppers delivered the devastating blow to his shoulder.
Analysis: With Stafford healthy after two injury-filled seasons, the Lions can pass the ball with seemingly any team around and the 23-year-old ranks second in the NFC with 11 touchdown passes -- eight of those to star WR Calvin Johnson. The Bears have allowed seven passing touchdowns this year -- all in the past three weeks -- and are yielding an average of 25.1 Fantasy points per game to opposing quarterbacks. Consider Stafford a No. 1 Fantasy QB in Week 5 as the Lions attempt to secure their first 5-0 start since 1956.
News: Playing in front of friends and family in his return to his hometown of Dallas, Lions QB Matthew Stafford led his team to 17 unanswered fourth quarter points in a 34-30 win over the Cowboys in Week 4. Stafford completed 21 of 43 passes for 240 yards, including two fourth quarter passes to WR Calvin Johnson. He was intercepted once in the game. Stafford has thrown at least two touchdown passes in each of the first four games of the season.
Analysis: Stafford got off to a very slow start against the Cowboys. He threw his first interception in over 80 pass attempts in the first quarter and failed to get into any sort of rhythm, leading only one scoring drive that wound up in a field goal. He didn't get off to a great start in the third quarter either, but after the Lions cut a 27-3 deficit to 27-17 on a pair of defensive touchdowns, the momentum began to carry over to the offense. Stafford, who was hesitant to throw the ball to Calvin Johnson for much of the game due to heavy coverage, began to throw the ball his way more often late in the third quarter and throughout the fourth. With one of the top weapons in the NFL in Johnson at his disposal, he finished the game strong and salvaged what looked to be a weak output for Fantasy owners. Stafford has been a top-five Fantasy QB throughout the first month of the season and should remain a No. 1 option for Fantasy owners as long as he continues to be in a very pass-friendly offense. With Johnson around, expect that to be the case. The Bears present a bit of a challenge in Week 5, but not enough to want to reserve Stafford in most standard formats.
News: Lions QB Matthew Stafford will be facing the Cowboys for the first time in his young NFL career in Week 4. Through the first three weeks of the season, the Cowboys have allowed an average of 226.7 passing yards per game. They have allowed five touchdown passes with three interceptions.
Analysis: Stafford, who ranks third among all quarterbacks in Fantasy points in standard scoring leagues, is playing well enough to be above matchup-based starting at this stage. However, it should be noted that he will be up against a Cowboys defense that has a stellar pass rush and can cause opposing quarterbacks fits. Fantasy owners will want to keep Stafford active across the board, however.
News: Lions QB Matthew Stafford appeared on Wednesday's practice report with a right forearm injury, but he was able to practice in full and is expected to play Week 4 against the Cowboys.
Analysis: Anytime Stafford appears on the injury report there is cause for concern. But this latest issue appears to be a non-issue, so continue to roll with Stafford heading into Week 4. Stafford came into 2011 as a big-time Fantasy sleeper and he hasn't disappointed. Stafford is the third-highest Fantasy scoring QB after three weeks.
News: Lions QB Matthew Stafford finished with a flourish in the Week 3 overtime win at Minnesota on Sunday. Stafford went off in the second half after a slow start and finished with 378 yards passing on 32 completions over 46 attempts. Stafford averaged 8.2 yards per completion as he threw for two touchdowns with no interceptions in the 26-23 OT win. Both of Stafford's touchdown passes were to Calvin Johnson in the second half. Stafford then led the final drive in overtime before Jason Hanson ended the game for the Lions to improve to 3-0 on the season. "The dude, for missing two seasons (with injuries), he's so calm and collected and that whole attitude goes over the whole huddle," Johnson said. "He's our coach on the field. He's a great leader for us and he makes big plays."
Analysis: Stafford got off to a slow start in this division rivalry game, but was able to really come on after halftime. With the help of tight end Brandon Pettigrew and, of course, Megatron, Stafford's final numbers ended up looking just as solid as they have been all season. With nine touchdowns and just two interceptions on the season for the Lions, Stafford has been one of the most consistent and best Fantasy options behind center in the league. That should only continue in Week 4 at Dallas. The Cowboys have given up plenty of yards and touchdowns already this season through the air and we believe Stafford will have another solid game in Week 4. Consider him a solid choice as a No. 1 Fantasy QB against the Cowboys.
News: Lions QB Matthew Stafford can take history out of the equation heading into Week 3 at Minnesota. Stafford has gone just 47 for 81 for 376 yards with two touchdowns and two interceptions in two career games against the Vikings. That said, his last game against them was back in 2009. He was a different QB then, and the Vikings were definitely a different team. Minnesota has given up three touchdowns and recorded three interceptions against Philip Rivers and Josh Freeman in two games this season. Rivers threw for 335 yards in Week 1 and Freeman 243 in Week 2. That said, the Vikings have not been able to stop anything on the ground.
Analysis: Stafford has been right around 300 yards in both games he's played this season in Tampa Bay and at home against the Chiefs. After torching K.C. for four touchdowns last week, Stafford has seven TDs and just two interceptions on the year. The Lions have been tossing the ball around the yard and that should continue heading into Week 3 at Minnesota. Expect plenty of looks for Jahvid Best, but consider Stafford, who became just the second player in NFL history to throw four touchdowns in a game three times in his first 15 starts last week, an easy choice as a No. 1 Fantasy QB.
News: Lions QB Matthew Stafford and the entire offense was on point Week 2 against the Chiefs. He came out throwing, and he was able to take his team down the field with ease for most of the afternoon. Stafford ended up tossing four touchdowns on the day, two in each half. He went to go-to-gut Calvin Johnson on a pair of scores, but he spread the ball to seven different receivers on the day. Stafford completed 23 of 39 passes for 294 yards on the way to an easy win. He did throw an early interception, but he was rewarded for a good day's work by getting most of the fourth quarter off in the 48-3 blowout.
Analysis: Stafford watched the last part of the game from the sidelines after picking apart the Kansas City secondary. He was accurate all afternoon just as he was in the season opener, and he now has seven touchdowns on the young season. Fantasy owners should keep an eye on Stafford moving forward, because he is turning the corner as a quality NFL QB. If he can stay healthy, the Georgia product will continue to toss the ball all over the yard with the players he has on the outside. Consider Stafford to be a clear-cut No. 1 option heading into the Week 3 game against the Vikings.
News: Lions QB Matthew Stafford says Kansas City’s defense will challenge Detroit in the Week 2 matchup despite the Chiefs’ surrendering 41 Week 1 points. “(Kansas City) didn’t come out and play Week 1 the way they wanted to,” Stafford said. “They have talent all over the field on the defensive side of the ball that’s impressive.” Stafford did have the start he wanted, tossing three touchdown passes in a27-20 win over the Bucs.
Analysis: Stafford faces a K.C. defense that allowed the eighth-most Fantasy points last week among 32 teams, and they sported the 21-st ranked unit in 2010. The young signal-caller has never faced the Chiefs in his career, but he should be able to hold his ground against a secondary that lost second-year start Eric Berry last week to a torn ACL. Fantasy owners should consider Stafford a top-five option heading into the matchup. Let's just hope that Calvin Johnson suits up on Sunday.
News: Lions QB Matthew Stafford, who missed most of the 2010 season due to a shoulder injury, tossed three touchdowns passes Week 1 against the Bucs to lead Detroit to a 27-20 win. Stafford got off to a slow start as he was picked off on the team's second drive. But he would fire two second-quarter touchdowns and his third touchdown in the third quarter was the second one to star receiver Calvin Johnson. Stafford's touchdown passes were of 1, 11 and 36 yards. He finished 24 of 33 for 305 yards.
Analysis: This is the type of production we can expect regularly from Stafford. He showed it last year in the few games he was healthy and he had a great preseason. Stafford did give us a few scares in Week 1 as he left twice due to cramping issues, but luckily it was nothing major. Fantasy owners should start warming up to the idea of Stafford becoming a reliable Fantasy QB. The Lions play the Chiefs in Week 2. Bills QB Ryan Fitzpatrick torched the Chiefs for four touchdown passes in Week 1. Get Stafford active.
News: Lions QB Matthew Stafford missed last season's 23-20 overtime win against the Bucs as he was sidelined with a shoulder injury. He isn't hurt this time around and is eager to get onto the field in Week 1 at Tampa Bay. "It's going to be fun, absolutely," Stafford said Wednesday. "We've got guys that have been in the system for a while, that are able to adjust on the run. (We can) try to design plays to hurt the defense. That's what we do as an offense, that's what everybody does as an offense. It's on us to be successful in going out and doing it.
Analysis: It was only the preseason, but it can't be overlooked the progress Stafford made. He looked healthy as he led the NFL with a 154.7 QB rating this preseason. Stafford heads into Week 1 needing just 198 yards to reach 3,000 in his career and one touchdown pass to reach 20 in his career. He has a very good chance to get both and put up some monster numbers against the Bucs. Tampa Bay allowed just 14.4 Fantasy points per week to QBs in 2010, which was tied for eighth lowest in the NFL. However, we still like Stafford as a No. 1 Fantasy QB in Week 1.
News:Matthew Stafford completed 1 of 2 passes Thursday at Buffalo, a perfect 39-yard bomb to a streaking Calvin Johnson down the right sideline. Stafford completed 25 of 32 passes this season for 395 yards with five touchdowns and no interceptions.
Analysis: If Stafford plays anywhere close to this level, he's going to have a monster season. Fantasy owners should stick to drafting him well after the elite QBs are off the board with a pick in late Round 6 or Round 7. Just be sure to back him up with another good passer in the event he misses time with an injury. Signs point to him having a good game at Tampa Bay in Week 1.
News: Lions QB Matthew Stafford had another outstanding preseason performance Saturday against New England. Stafford was 12 of 14 passing for 200 yards and two touchdowns. He passed arguably his most important test of the preseason so far vs. the Patriots -- the ability to withstand heavy hits to his oft-injured shoulders. Stafford’s taken two big shots and isn’t showing any ill effects. Stafford's preseason performance has gone a long way toward quieting even his most severe critics. Through three games, Stafford is 24 for 31 passing, for 356 yards and five touchdowns. Stafford has yet to throw an interception, and has a stellar passer rating of 154.0.
Analysis: We love what we're seeing from Stafford, and he should be considered a No. 1 Fantasy QB in all leagues coming into the season. While it's just the preseason, Stafford has shown he is ready to take the next step in his career. He is worth drafting as early as Round 7 in all formats, but still be cautious and take a solid No. 2 QB just in case his shoulder does get hurt again, which has happened each of the past two seasons.
News: Lions QB Matthew Stafford didn't throw two touchdowns in this week's preseason game at Cleveland, but he came close. Stafford connected with Nate Burleson on a 4-yard touchdown that the receiver made pretty by keeping his tiptoes in-bounds, then had a pass to a wide-open Derrick Williams fall through the receivers' fingers in the end zone. Stafford finished with 85 yards on 6 of 10 passing -- all without top target Calvin Johnson. “I found all the right places and was throwing the ball well,” Stafford said. “We didn’t have (Calvin Johnson) tonight, and guys stepped up and made plays. That’s what we have to have.”
Analysis: Stafford stayed upright and threw well -- pretty much what Fantasy owners hope he can do for 16 weeks in 2011. The only risk as we see it is if his shoulder gets wrecked again. Twice last season Stafford left Fantasy owners high and dry because he got hurt, so some owners are nervous about trusting him. But the risk is just as high as the reward -- there's a real shot Stafford could hit 4,000 yards and well over 20 touchdowns this season if he stays healthy given his receiving corps. He should be drafted as a low-end No. 1 Fantasy QB who should be paired with another reliable passer just in case he gets hurt again. Stafford is well worth a choice as soon as Round 7 in deeper leagues and Round 9 in smaller formats.
News: Lions QB Matthew Stafford was fantastic in his first game action since hurting his shoulder last season. Completing 7 of 8 passes (one pass went off Jahvid Best's hands), Stafford hooked up with Calvin Johnson on a 26-yard touchdown and followed up with Nate Burleson on a 7-yard fade route that Burleson saved with solid footwork. Stafford totaled 71 passing yards.
Analysis: This is just a taste of the potential Stafford can give Fantasy owners this season. The only risk as we see it is if his shoulder gets wrecked again. Twice last season Stafford left Fantasy owners high and dry because he got hurt, so some owners are nervous about trusting him. But the risk is just as high as the reward -- there's a real shot Stafford could hit 4,000 yards and well over 20 touchdowns this season if he stays healthy given his receiving corps. He should be drafted as the best backup quarterback in Fantasy Football, well worth a choice as soon as Round 7 in deeper leagues and Round 9 in smaller formats.
News: Lions TE Brandon Pettigrew says Matthew Stafford’s early performances in camp indicate Stafford’s injured shoulder has fully healed. “(Stafford's) arm strength is definitely there," Pettigrew said. “He’s putting balls on a line and making all the throws he did before (the injury). There’s no reason he should be limited in any way.”
Analysis: We keep hearing nothing but good things about Stafford's recovery and that is certainly encouraging. But Fantasy owners still have to tame their expectations on Draft Day. While we know Stafford can be a serious Fantasy player, he has to be drafted as more of a No. 2 Fantasy QB because of his injured past. He's worth a mid-round pick in all leagues, and hopefully he can put together a full season to show off his skills.
News: Lions coach Jim Schwartz said Thursday he believes QB Matthew Stafford has recovered from the shoulder injuries that plagued his first two NFL seasons. “Matt’s going to be in shape,” Schwartz said. “He’s going to be ready to go. We look forward to putting that missed time behind him. That’s key for this football team.”
Analysis: Stafford appears ready to go heading into the season with his injured shoulder. He has the potential to be a No. 1 Fantasy QB if he can stay healthy, but we consider him a No. 2 passer coming into the 2011 season. He's worth a mid-round pick in all leagues, and hopefully he can put together a full season to show off his skills. But according to all the offseason reports so far, he's on his way and should be considered a sleeper on Draft Day.
News: Lions QB Matthew Stafford, who underwent offseason shoulder surgery, gave himself a clean bill of health Tuesday as he talked to reporters. "I feel 100 percent," he said. "I’m ready to go. (My shoulder) feels great. So whatever they have us doing, I’m going to be first in line."
Analysis: It's going to be a big task for Stafford to remain on the field in 2011, which has been a big issue for the former No. 1 overall pick in his first two NFL seasons. Stafford did put up a lot of Fantasy points in two of the three games he played in 2010. Stafford posted 32 Fantasy points in Week 8 and then came back in Week 9 to post 28 Fantasy points. We know the potential he has in Scott Linehan's pass-happy offense, but Stafford's durability issues prevent him from being drafted as a No. 1 Fantasy QB. He is definitely an intriguing mid-to-late-round Fantasy sleeper.
News: NFL.com reports Lions QB Matthew Stafford has been pleased with his offseason regimen as he works his way back from shoulder surgery. "Just trying to stay fit, stay ready to go," Stafford said. "I had shoulder surgery obviously earlier this offseason. That’s something I battled through. I rehabbed for about 10-12 weeks and I feel great now. I’ve been trying to fine-tune my game ever since. I pushed myself really hard and healed up a lot quicker than most people, which was a blessing and great for me so I can start working on my game again. I really don’t think about my shoulder anymore." Stafford doesn't intend to change his playing style despite having some injury issues in his first two NFL seasons. "I won’t alter my playing style at all," he said. "Injuries happen, that’s part of the game. But as far as mental hurdles go, I feel great right now. I’m sure the first hit, when I get up from it and feel great, will bring a lot of confidence to me and I’ll get the ball rolling from there.
Analysis: Stafford is so pumped up for the 2011 season is that he is telling Fantasy owners to have faith in him as a No. 1 option. "That’s my number one question asked, should they pick me up in Fantasy?" Stafford added. "I’m going to play all 16 [games], I’ve got Calvin Johnson, Nate Burleson, Brandon Pettigrew. I’m throwing the ball to Jahvid Best and (Mikel) Leshoure out of the backfield. I feel there is going to be a lot of points put up." Stafford did put up a lot of Fantasy points in two of the three games he played in 2010. Stafford posted 32 Fantasy points in Week 8 and then came back in Week 9 to post 28 Fantasy points. We know the potential he has in Scott Linehan's pass-happy offense, but Stafford's durability issues prevent him from being drafted as a No. 1 Fantasy QB. He is definitely an intriguing mid-to-late-round Fantasy sleeper.
News: Lions head coach Jim Schwartz may not be allowed to contact QB Matthew Stafford because of the NFL labor situation, but he is allowed to keep tabs on how he's coming back from shoulder surgery. According to MLive.com, Schwartz is pleased with where Stafford's arm is at and thinks the lockout potentially helped him gain strength because he wasn't forced to throw as much as he would in a normal offseason. "It wasn't a real complicated procedure and it wasn't a real complicated rehab," Schwartz said. "I think Matt knew what it's going to take him to get ready, so I think we all feel pretty confident about that."
Analysis: It's pretty clear what needs to happen this year: If Stafford stays healthy, he should put up some really nice numbers by throwing to a receiving corps led by beast Calvin Johnson. If Stafford can't stay healthy, he'll be stuck with the stigma of being an injury-prone football player forever. He has the skill set and knows the Lions' offense, it's just a matter of not getting his shoulder mashed into the ground. The projections for Stafford are sky-high if he plays 16 games, but no one should draft him expecting him to play in any more than a dozen given his injury history. That makes him a high-end No. 2 Fantasy QB with upside to be a must-start option worth drafting between Rounds 8 and 10 in drafts this summer.
News: The Detroit News reports that Lions coach Jim Schwartz said QB Matthew Stafford is ready to have a big year in 2011. "We need to keep him healthy," Schwartz said. "That's been the issue. Matt doesn't need to develop anymore. He doesn't need to learn the offense. He doesn't need to work on accuracy or anything. He needs to be out there playing. He played three games for us last year and he left all three games with the lead. (He had) six touchdowns and one interception in the equivalent of about two games. You put those stats over the course of a season and you see how special a player he can be. That's the difference; you won't be a good team for an extended period of time without a good quarterback. We have one with Matt. We just need to keep him on the field."
Analysis: Stafford appears ready to go heading into the season with his injured shoulder. He has the potential to be a No. 1 Fantasy QB if he can stay healthy, but we consider him a No. 2 passer coming into the 2011 season. He's worth a late-round pick in all leagues, and hopefully he can put together a full season to show off his skills. But according to all the offseason reports so far, he's on his way and should be considered a sleeper on Draft Day.
News: According to NFL.com, Lions president Tom Lewand said that QB Matthew Stafford's recovery from an injured shoulder, according to the trainers, is "off the charts." He has made significant progress since last season. "The injury that he sustained last year and the surgery that he had is very similar to Sam Bradford's a year ago," Lewand explained. "And obviously, Sam had a tremendous rookie year, didn't miss any snaps, and we feel the same about Matthew's ability to go forward, better than he's ever been."
Analysis: Stafford has the potential to be a No. 1 Fantasy QB if he can stay healthy, but we consider him a No. 2 passer coming into the 2011 season. He's worth a late-round pick in all leagues, and hopefully he can put together a full season to show off his skills. But according to all the offseason reports so far, he's on his way and should be considered a sleeper on Draft Day.
News:Matthew Stafford finished four days of workouts with several of his Lions teammates in Detroit on Friday (including Megatron), and the reviews on how he's progressed are all very positive. Center Dominic Raiola referred to Stafford as "above 100 percent" and claims it's like the Lions players don't even remember Stafford as hurt. Most importantly, Stafford said that if there were a game on Sunday, he'd be ready to roll. "Oh, yeah, I'm good," Stafford told the Detroit News. "I feel good as ever, like I'm right where I want to be."
Analysis: It sounds like that when training camp opens, Stafford's shoulder won't be an issue. That's awesome, but no one should forget that the same could be said last season. The Lions need to continue in their improvement of their protection of Stafford since defenses might not have a choice but to blitz him constantly given the weapons at his disposal. The projections for Stafford are sky-high if he plays 16 games, but no one should draft him expecting him to play in any more than a dozen given his injury history. That makes him a high-end No. 2 Fantasy QB with upside to be a must-start option worth drafting between Rounds 8 and 10 in drafts this summer.
News: The Detroit Free Press reports that Lions QB Matthew Stafford has been cleared for football activities for about two months, and he said he’s 100 percent recovered from January surgery on his throwing shoulder. “I feel great,” Stafford said. “Healthwise, I feel as good as I ever have, so I’m ready to go.” Limited to just three games last season because of two different right shoulder separations, Stafford said he believes the Lions can contend for the playoffs this year if he and the rest of the team’s young nucleus stay healthy. He has already started throwing with second-round pick Titus Young, and both Young and RB Mikel Leshoure are expected to take part in a large-scale player-organized workout that Stafford will attend Monday. “I’m excited about No. 1 being healthy going into the year and hopefully playing all 16 games or more,” Stafford said. “We have all the core guys, major guys, coming back, which is great."
Analysis: According to the report, Stafford was asked if there was a chance he would start training camp on the physically unable to perform list, Stafford answered, “Me? No. I’m ready to go. ... I feel like I’ve done everything I possibly can this offseason to prepare to be healthy and go out there and play." Stafford has the potential to be a No. 1 Fantasy QB if he can stay healthy, but we consider him a No. 2 passer coming into the 2011 season. He's worth a late-round pick in all leagues, and hopefully he can put together a full season to show off his skills.
News: Lions GM Martin Mayhew says Matthew Stafford's recovery from surgery on his right, throwing shoulder is going well. Mayhew said Thursday the team received good reports from Stafford's showing at a charity event that was part of Georgia's spring game last week. Stafford threw passes through a tire in a competition against other former Bulldogs and had a 50-yard pass dropped by a fan. The Lions can receive reports on Stafford's progress, but aren't permitted to make contact with him during the lockout. Stafford played in just three games last season and 10 games as a rookie the previous year. He is 3-9 in the NFL and his .250 winning percentage ranks as the worst among quarterbacks drafted No. 1 overall.
Analysis: This is good news that Stafford's shoulder is doing well and he's on his way toward a full recovery. Stafford has the potential to be a No. 1 Fantasy QB if he can stay healthy, but we consider him a No. 2 passer coming into the 2011 season. He's worth a late-round pick in all leagues, and hopefully he can put together a full season to show off his skills.
News: The University of Georgia announced recently that ex-Bulldogs QB Matthew Stafford will throw in a legends quarterback challenge at halftime of the team's spring game. That suggests that Stafford's arm is well on its way back after surgery this offseason.
Analysis: The more we hear about Stafford throwing, the more we like his upside for 2011. Expect the Lions to make waves via the draft and free agency to further protect Stafford along the offensive line. Also expect them to bulk up the gear he wears so that his shoulder doesn't crack again. Stafford has the potential to be a No. 1 Fantasy QB if he can stay healthy, but we consider him a No. 2 passer coming into the 2011 season simply because it's hard to imagine him playing 16 games. He's worth a late-round pick in all leagues, and hopefully he can put together a full season to show off his skills. If that happens, watch out.
News: Just days after Lions head coach Jim Schwartz said QB Matthew Stafford wasn't throwing, the third-year passer Tweeted otherwise. "Just got done throwin," Stafford posted. "[S]houlder is feeling good." Stafford had offseason shoulder surgery for the second year in a row after missing all but 9 1/2 quarters in 2010.
Analysis: Expect the Lions to make waves via the draft and free agency to add protection to Stafford's O-line. Also expect them to bulk up the gear he wears so that his shoulder doesn't crack again. Stafford has the potential to be a No. 1 Fantasy QB if he can stay healthy, but we consider him a No. 2 passer coming into the 2011 season simply because it's hard to imagine him playing 16 games. He's worth a late-round pick in all leagues, and hopefully he can put together a full season to show off his skills. If that happens, watch out.
News:Matthew Stafford's rehab from offseason shoulder surgery has been good, said Lions head coach Jim Schwartz on Tuesday. The Lions aren't allowed to contact Stafford during the league's lockout, but they have received reports from his trainers and are satisfied with what he's doing. Schwartz added that Stafford still has yet to throw a football, but he's getting there. "There's nothing that he's had injury-wise in his first two years that'' going to affect him moving forward," Schwartz said. "We need to keep him on the field."
Analysis: Stafford has the potential to be a No. 1 Fantasy QB if he can stay healthy, but we consider him a No. 2 passer coming into the 2011 season simply because it's hard to imagine him playing 16 games. He's worth a late-round pick in all leagues, and hopefully he can put together a full season to show off his skills. If that happens, watch out.
News: According to FOXSports in Detroit, Lions QB Matthew Stafford's surgically-repaired shoulder is doing well. Coach Jim Schwartz had positive news on Stafford's recovery from Jan. 21 surgery on his right shoulder. Stafford's shoulder was injured twice last season, limiting him to two starts. "Matthew's doing great," Schwartz said Tuesday. "It'll set him back in the short term. Once we get into training camp ... he'll be 100 percent."
Analysis: This is good news that Stafford's shoulder is doing well and he's on his way toward a full recovery. Stafford has the potential to be a No. 1 Fantasy QB if he can stay healthy, but we consider him a No. 2 passer coming into the 2011 season. He's worth a late-round pick in all leagues, and hopefully he can put together a full season to show off his skills.
News: The Lions announced Friday that QB Matthew Stafford underwent surgery on his injured right shoulder. Stafford separated his throwing shoulder on two occasions this season and played in just three games. He went on injured reserve Christmas Eve. “While continuing the rehab program (without surgery) was still a viable option, Matt decided to have the surgery now in order to ensure that he will have plenty of time to recover and rehab prior to the 2011 season,” coach Jim Schwartz said. “We have full confidence that Matt will be 100 percent before the start of training camp.” The procedure was performed by Dr. James Andrews at his clinic in Alabama. "Matthew (Stafford) has one of the strongest arms in the (NFL)," Andrews said. "I am confident that he will be as strong as ever.”
Analysis: All signs pointed towards Stafford avoiding the operating room and going the rehab route instead, but so much for that. We'll have to see the exact extent of Stafford's surgery before we consider knocking him down a peg heading into 2011, so don't panic just yet if you have the youngster stashed away in a long-term keeper league. Stafford is still going to be a nice injury-risk Fantasy sleeper on Draft Day 2011.
News: Lions QB Matthew Stafford’s injury problems are a major offseason concern. GM Martin Mayhew tried to assuage fears that Stafford’s injuries will have long-term effect. “(Stafford) wasn’t injury-prone prior to getting here,” Mayhew said. “(The doctors and I) don’t think it’s an ongoing issue. We want to get him healthy and playing football.” Coach Jim Schwartz said Tuesday that Stafford remains the focus of the Lions offense. "When we acquired offensive talent, we were acquiring it with Matt Stafford in mind," Schwartz said. "Those guys fit in with Matt's skills at quarterback and the way he can lead this team."
Analysis: Shaun Hill did an admirable job in Stafford's absence this season, but Detroit didn't draft Stafford first overall a few seasons ago just to give up on him after a few injuries. Stafford proved this season when he was healthy that he is going to be a special talent in the NFL. Stafford is going to be a nice injury-risk Fantasy sleeper on Draft Day 2011.
News: Coach Jim Schwartz says Matthew Stafford, who finished the year on injured reserve with a shoulder injury, remains the focus of the Lions offense. "When we acquired offensive talent, we were acquiring it with Matt Stafford in mind," Schwartz said. "Those guys fit in with Matt's skills at quarterback and the way he can lead this team."
Analysis: Shaun Hill did an admirable job in Stafford's absence this season, but Detroit didn't draft Stafford first overall a few seasons ago just to give up on him after a few injuries. Stafford proved this season when he was healthy that he is going to be a special talent in the NFL. Stafford is going to be a nice injury-risk Fantasy sleeper on Draft Day 2011.
News: The Lions placed QB Matthew Stafford on injured reserve Friday. “We were hopeful that he’d be able to come back,” said coach Jim Schwartz. “His rehab has been going good, but when he threw a couple weeks ago, he wasn’t at the point to keep on throwing.” He had played in only three games this season and 10 last year because of injuries. Stafford's shoulder was separated in the season's opener at Chicago. He later aggravated the injury.
Analysis: Stafford had already been ruled out for Week 16, and the Lions were clearly hoping he might be back for the final game of the season, but his shoulder just isn't healed enough for him to play this Sunday. Stafford remains worth stashing away in long-term keeper formats.
News: Lions coach Jim Schwartz says QB Matthew Stafford (shoulder) is the only quarterback not in consideration to start in the Week 16 game at Miami. Stafford will mis his seventh straight game with the issue, and 12th overall this season.
Analysis: Stafford's shoulder issue has been re-aggravated already, and the team is out of playoff contention. Still, the team has not placed him on injured reserve, so there's a possibility he can suit up for the last game of the season. Even when he returns, we don't recommend utilizing him in Fantasy play.
News: Lions QB Matthew Stafford (shoulder) was listed as inactive for Week 15 at Tampa Bay. Drew Stanton was named the starter for this week, while Shaun Hill (finger) was active and listed as the No. 2 QB.
Analysis: Stafford could still return over the next two weeks, but for now, keep Stafford stashed in all formats for Week 15.
News: Lions QB Matthew Stafford (right shoulder) has been ruled out for the Week 15 game against the Buccaneers, as expected. Stafford -- who didn't practice all week -- has played in just three games this season.
Analysis: Stafford has been as injury-prone as they come in the NFL. He has re-injured his throwing shoulder twice in 2010. The Lions are hoping for his return this season so he can continue his development as a pro quarterback. Keep the former Georgia Bulldog stashed in Fantasy play for now. When healthy, he's a No. 2 Fantasy QB, but his value moving forward seems best suited for long-term keeper leagues.
News: Lions coach Jim Schwartz reiterated Wednesday his desire to get QB Matthew Stafford back from a shoulder injury before the end of the season. His main reason being that he wants Stafford, who has missed 10 games this season and will likely sit out Week 15 against the Bucs, to continue his development with the rest of the offense. Schwartz believes that Stafford has lost nearly a full season's time of creating cohesion on offense. “It’s one thing to be out there practicing and in meeting rooms and on the sideline in games,” Schwartz said. “It’s another thing to be in the huddle and actually going through those things out with the team on the field.”
Analysis: When he was on the field this season, Schwartz had nothing but high marks for Stafford, who had six touchdowns to one interception in three games. “His command of the offense and what opponents did and things like that (was at a high level),” Schwartz said. “But there’s nothing that you can substitute for actual game experience and going through it.” As much as Schwartz would love to have Stafford play again this season, with just three games left and Stafford not throwing or practicing, the chances appear bleak. As for Fantasy, most leagues have championship games in Week 16 and it's kind of hard to trust a guy that has sat out most of the season due to injury. Stafford remains more of a long-term Fantasy keeper.
News: Lions QB Matthew Stafford (shoulder) was on the inactives list for Week 14 against the Packers. He had been ruled out for the game on Friday, as Drew Stanton was named the Lions' starting QB.
Analysis: Stafford may not play again this season, so he should only be stashed in the deepest of seasonal leagues and all long-term keeper formats.
News: Lions QBs Shaun Hill (finger) and Matthew Stafford (shoulder) were on the field for practice Friday, but did not participate in drills open to media. Stafford tossed a ball lightly with his left arm but did not test his throwing shoulder. Drew Stanton will start at QB against the Packers in Week 14 as Hill and Stafford have both been ruled out.
Analysis: Coach Jim Schwartz says reporters won’t see Stafford on the field until he’s ready to practice fully. Schwartz said putting Stafford on the field prematurely would reduce his rehab to a “dog-and-pony show” for the media. Stafford threw 14 passes before Wednesday’s workout, but he still has a long ways to go before being declared ready for games. In fact, the consensus is that Stafford will not play again this season since Detroit is out of playoff contention. Stafford should only be stashed in the deepest of seasonal leagues and all long-term keeper formats.
News: Lions QB Matthew Stafford threw a few 10-yard passes at the start of practice Wednesday, testing an injured right shoulder that has bothered him all season. Stafford was asked if there was pain when he threw. His response: “It wasn’t terrible. It wasn’t too bad." Stafford has hurt the shoulder twice and has played only one full game this season. Detroit still hopes for Stafford to play again this season after separating his shoulder again several weeks ago.
Analysis: For some reason, the Lions seem to be focused on bringing Stafford back this season, even though the team isn't going to make the playoffs. He should only be stashed in long-term keeper leagues and very deep seasonal Fantasy formats at this point, as one awkward tackle and he could need surgery. Owners should focus their attention elsewhere for these final four weeks unless your QB situation is particularly dire, with Stanton a decent replacement.
News: The Detroit Lions are rolling with Drew Stanton as starting quarterback for Week 13 against Chicago. The Lions listed QB Matthew Stafford as an inactive for the game with his right shoulder injury. The team still hopes for Stafford to play again this season after separating his shoulder again several weeks ago.
Analysis: Stafford might very well play again this season, but it won't be this week and chances are it will be very late in the year, if at all. Feel free to hold on to him in Fantasy, but don't keep him on the roster if it means losing out on a good prospect on the waiver wire or backing up a key stud. Chances are only a handful of people will actually start Stafford upon his return, if there's a return.
News: As expected, Lions QB Matthew Stafford didn't practice Wednesday as the team prepares for its Week 13 game vs. Chicago. He's not expected to play Sunday as Detroit named Drew Stanton their starting QB after Stafford's backup Shaun Hill missed practice with a broken right index finger. The team still hopes for Stafford to play again this season after separating his shoulder again several weeks ago, and Stafford himself told WJR-AM in Detroit on Tuesday that he anticipates being able to begin light throwing soon.
Analysis: Stafford might very well play again this season, but it won't be this week and chances are it will be very late in the year, if at all. Feel free to hold on to him in Fantasy, but don't keep him on the roster if it means losing out on a good prospect on the waiver wire or backing up a key stud. Chances are only a handful of people will actually start Stafford upon his return, if there's a return. We'll continue to keep you posted.
News: Lions QB Matthew Stafford (shoulder) told WJR-AM on Tuesday that he would begin light throwing sometime this week. Coach Jim Schwartz indicated that might happen in the near future. "He's probably pretty close to that" Schwartz said. "He's doing really well in his rehab." Schwartz cautioned that the team has to evaluate Stafford each day instead of putting him on a set schedule. "Just because he throws on one day, doesn't mean we plan on him throwing the next day," Schwartz said.
Analysis: It seems crazy that the Lions would risk getting their franchise QB hurt again this season, considering they're out of playoff contention, but we might not have seen the last of Stafford in 2010. He remains worth stashing in very deep Fantasy formats and long-term keeper leagues, but that's it.
News: As expected, Lions QB Matthew Stafford (shoulder) was once again listed as inactive for Week 12 vs. the Patriots. Stafford remains sidelined with a sprained right (throwing) shoulder and hopes to return before the end of the season. Surgery is not expected. Shaun Hill will start in Stafford's place.
Analysis: Stafford's separated right shoulder kept him out of a third straight game on Thanksgiving and his eighth overall this season. The Lions don't know - or at least they're not saying - when Stafford will return. Shaun Hill will continue to start in Stafford's place for however long he is active. Continue to monitor Stafford's progress. With his return date unknown and the possibility that he won't play again this season, Stafford could be dropped by those owners who could claim a better, healthier alternative off of waivers.
News: Lions QB Matthew Stafford (right shoulder) has been ruled out for Week 12 vs. New England. It will be the third straight game and eighth overall Stafford misses this season.
Analysis: Stafford has put off surgery in hopes of returning this season, but it seems unlikely the Lions will risk their franchise QB from doing more damage in meaningless games. Add to the fact that Shaun Hill is doing well managing the offense, the Lions really have no rush to get Stafford back. Continue to stash him in larger Fantasy formats, but it's tough to be optimistic about Stafford's chances of returning this season.
News: Lions QB Matthew Stafford (shoulder) was unable to participate in practice on Monday as the team prepared for Week 12 against the Patriots. He has been inactive for each of the last two games.
Analysis: Stafford will not undergo surgery on his sprained right throwing shoulder and will focus instead on rehabilitation. He has missed seven games so far this season with shoulder issues so Fantasy owners should continue to monitor his progress leading up to Week 12 against the Patriots. With his return date unknown and the possibility that he won't play again this year, Stafford could be dropped by those owners who could claim a better, healthier alternative off of waivers.
News: As expected, Lions QB Matthew Stafford (shoulder) was once again listed as inactive for Week 11 in Dallas. Stafford said Wednesday he will not have surgery on his sprained right throwing shoulder. He said well-known sports orthopedist Dr. James Andrews concurred with the team's evaluation that surgery isn't necessary at this time and he will focus instead on rehabilitation.
Analysis: Stafford's separated right shoulder kept him out of a second straight game Sunday at Dallas and his seventh overall this season. The Lions don't know - or at least they're not saying - when Stafford will return. Shaun Hill will continue to start in Stafford's place for however long he is active. Continue to monitor Stafford's progress. With his return date unknown and the possibility that he won't play again this season, Stafford could be dropped by those owners who could claim a better, healthier alternative off of waivers.
News: Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford said Wednesday he will not have surgery on his sprained right throwing shoulder. He said well-known sports orthopedist Dr. James Andrews concurred with the team's evaluation that surgery isn't necessary at this time and he will focus instead on rehabilitation. Stafford's separated right shoulder will keep him out of a second straight game Sunday at Dallas and his seventh overall this season. The Lions don't know - or at least they're not saying - when Stafford will return, but coach Jim Schwartz was relatively encouraged by his visit this week with Andrews. "When you get consensus among orthopedics regarding shoulder injuries, it gives you a comfort level of where the player is and confidence to go along with the rehab," Schwartz said. Shaun Hill will start in Stafford's place, although he wants to play if at all possible. “If I’m healthy, I’m going to be out there,” Stafford said. “I don’t care if it’s the last game of the season. I don’t care what our record is (at the time) If I’m healthy, I’m playing.”
Analysis: There's no guarantee that Stafford will play again this season in spite of the Lions' optimism. The team might eventually come to the conclusion that they'd rather put him on season-ending injured reserve and save him for 2011 rather than play him this season. Besides, Hill has been playing moderately well in his place. With his return date unknown and the possibility that he won't play again this season, Stafford could be dropped by those owners who could claim a better, healthier alternative off of waivers.
News: Lions QB Matthew Stafford (shoulder) was examined by Dr. James Andrews, an orthopedic surgeon, Monday afternoon. Dr. Andrews' evaluation of Stafford's shoulder injury is "consistent with the evaluation and diagnosis of the Lions’ medical staff," the team announced. The Lions haven't made their diagnosis of Stafford's injuries public, although reports indicating it's a Grade 3 shoulder separation haven't been refuted. According to ESPN.com, surgery has not been ruled out as an option for Stafford.
Analysis: Stafford already separated his should once this season so hopefully this does not become a trend for the second-year player out of Georgia. Fantasy owners should stay tuned for an official diagnosis but it does not look like he will be starting games for Detroit anytime soon, especially if he indeed needs surgery. When healthy, Stafford has shown the ability to perform like a high-end Fantasy QB, but keep him stashed away until a timetable is given for his shoulder injury.
News: Lions QB Matthew Stafford, who separated his troublesome right shoulder last week and could potentially miss the rest of the season, is officially inactive for Week 10 at Buffalo. He played in only two games after returning from his last shoulder injury.
Analysis: The Lions said they're going week to week with Stafford, but the second-year quarterback is scheduled to meet with Dr. James Andrews on Monday, which can't be a good sign. When healthy, he has shown the ability to perform like a high-end Fantasy QB, but if you're short on bench slots, you might have no choice but to release him.
News: Lions coach Jom Schwartz said Friday that QB Matthew Stafford will visit renowned orthopedic surgeon Dr. James Andrews on Monday. He has been ruled out for Week 10 at Buffalo. Shaun Hill will start against Buffalo.
Analysis: Stafford is rumored to have separated his shoulder for a second time this season in Week 9, and this news pretty much confirms that the second-year QB might have some significant issues in his shoulder. Continue to stash him away in deeper Fantasy formats if you have some slim hope he might return to action this season, but it's not looking good.
News: Lions coach Jim Schwartz says QB Matthew Stafford 's (shoulder) status is a week-to week decision. “He’s not going to go this Sunday (against the Bills),” Schwartz said. “We’ll make determinations on Wednesdays each week to see if he’ll be able to get reps and go that week.” Shaun Hill has been named the starter for Week 10 against the Bills.
Analysis: The rumor is that Stafford has a separated shoulder and he is expected to miss the rest of the season. But it seems the Lions are holding out hope Stafford's season isn't over. “It’s irresponsible to say (Stafford’s) been considered for injured reserve, going to have surgery, or that his season is over," Schwartz said. "There was no basis for that from anything I’ve said.” Stafford continues to be a fragile player, and every time it looks like he is going to go on a hot streak, another injury flares up. You can keep Stafford stashed away in deeper Fantasy formats, but his prospects for returning this season are still iffy.
News: Sources within the Lions organization tell MLive.com that QB Matthew Stafford may have suffered a Grade 3 separation of his right shoulder and thus might be out for the season. The results of Stafford's MRI on Monday are not known, but he is scheduled to get a second opinion with noted orthopedist Dr. James Andrews this week. Earlier this year Stafford suffered a Grade 2 shoulder separation and missed five games, and a Grade 3 separation is obviously worse. "I've got to talk some more with these doctors and kind of figure out what they're thinking,'' Stafford said Monday on a Detroit radio station. "It's kind of frustrating to be coming back and, two games later, be knocked out again. We'll take it day by day and figure out what the plan is.'' It is unknown whether Shaun Hill or Drew Stanton would take over for the Lions while Stafford is sidelined; Hill himself has been healing from a broken left forearm.
Analysis: If you own Stafford, begin making contingency plans now to replace him in lineups. It's only been three weeks since Hill broke his left forearm, but he's a righty and might be able to gut out a big game. Otherwise, Stanton emerges as a low-end starter and not exactly the best replacement for Stafford as he's thrown two touchdowns and seven interceptions in nine career games. Other quarterbacks who might be of use and potentially on waivers include David Garrard, Josh Freeman and Vince Young. We'll keep you posted on Stafford's injury this week to help you with your roster, but don't punt on him just yet in case he's not shelved for the season.
News: The shoulder injury that Lions QB Matthew Stafford sustained against the Jets in Week 9 isn't related to his Week 1 injury, which caused him to miss five games. Stafford underwent an MRI Monday. The Lions aren't exploring surgical options for Stafford and will determine his status for Sunday's game in Week 10 at Buffalo after consulting physicians. If Stafford is unable to play, the Lions will determine before Wednesday's practice whether QB Shaun Hill (arm) will be cleared to play Sunday at Buffalo. If Hill can't play, coach Jim Schwartz said the Lions will explore signing a quarterback. Currently QB Drew Stanton is the only healthy quarterback on the Lions' roster.
Analysis: Stafford played well Week 9 against the Jets before getting injured. He went 20 for 36 in the contest for 240 yards with two touchdowns and no interceptions. He added a rushing touchdown as well in the third quarter and finished with 11 yards on four carries. In two games since coming back from the injury Stafford has seven total touchdowns and one interception. He would be considered a must-start option against the Bills if he's healthy and able to play.
News: Detroit QB Matthew Stafford played well Week 9 against the Jets. Stafford did all he could to lead the Lions to victory in the game but he ultimately left late with an injury and New York overcame the Lions and won in overtime, 23-20. Stafford re-injured the same shoulder that caused him to miss five games already this year. Drew Stanton came on for him but did not throw a pass. Stafford got his shoulder looked at on the sideline and then iced it. He could not return to the game and was visibly in a lot of pain. The injury occurred with just over five minutes to play in the game. “He’s sore. It’s his right shoulder," coach Jim Schwartz explained. "I don’t know if it’s related (to Stafford’s previous injury). He’s tough. If he could (have finished the game), he would have. We’re going to take a serious look at it.” Stafford went 20 for 36 in the contest for 240 yards with two touchdowns and no interceptions. He added a rushing touchdown as well in the third quarter and finished with 11 yards on four carries.
Analysis: Stafford hit tight end Brandon Pettigrew for a 10-yard TD pass in the first quarter and added a TD pass to Nate Burleson from 2 yards out in the fourth before getting injured. Stafford has seven total touchdowns and one interception in his last two games but he'll head into Week 10 at Buffalo once again on the injury report. Fantasy owners will need to monitor that situation because after the last two weeks, Stafford looks like a viable Fantasy start in any format.
News: Lions QB Matthew Stafford is healthy and starting Week 9 against the Jets. Listed on the injury report as mostly a precaution, Stafford was never going to miss the game against Darrelle Revis and New York. After missing five games, Stafford came right back and threw four touchdown passes against the Redskins with just one interception last week.
Analysis: Stafford is confident that Calvin Johnson and his receivers can overcome the Jets' devastating secondary. New York has been improving since Darrelle Revis returned but they have allowed a decent amount of Fantasy points per game to opposing QBs this season. That said, Aaron Rodgers could go just 15 of 34 against them for 170 yards and no touchdowns Week 8. If the Jets can shut down the Packers' passing game, they should be able to do the same against the Lions. There are better Fantasy starts out there for Week 9 so consider Stafford just a No. 2 Fantasy option.
News: Lions QB Matthew Stafford certainly played well in his return to action after a shoulder injury in Week 8 against Washington. After missing five games, Stafford came right back and threw four touchdown passes against the Redskins with just one interception. Stafford won't concern himself with the comparisons with Jets QB Mark Sanchez when the two teams meet in Week 9. "I don't think it'd matter if I threw for 500 yards and he threw for 75," Stafford said of Sanchez, who was also drafted in 2009. "The guy whose team wins is who (the media) will say is better." Stafford has been able to practice in full participation and should be ready for the game.
Analysis: Stafford sounds like he has a lot to prove and is going to do all he can to stop the Jets in their tracks on Sunday. Stafford is confident that Calvin Johnson and his receivers can overcome the Jets' devastating secondary. New York has been improving since Darrelle Revis returned but they have allowed a decent amount of Fantasy points per game to opposing QBs this season. That said, Aaron Rodgers could go just 15 of 34 against them for 170 yards and no touchdowns Week 8. If the Jets can shut down the Packers' passing game, they should be able to do the same against the Lions. There are better Fantasy starts out there for Week 9 so consider Stafford just a No. 2 Fantasy option.
News: Lions QB Matthew Stafford was solid, not spectacular, in his return from a shoulder injury in Week 8 vs. Washington, though his Fantasy owners will suggest that he was beyond sensational. Stafford leaned on WR Calvin Johnson quite a bit and finished with four touchdowns on 26 of 45 passing for 212 yards with an interception. He also hit Bryant Johnson for a two point conversion. Exactly one-third of Stafford's pass attempts went to Johnson, who had 101 of Stafford's 212 passing yards. TE Brandon Pettigrew caught Stafford's fourth score. “We’ve got to give him a hand for what he did," Johnson said of his QB after the game. "He may have started off rusty. But he started throwing darts after that, and we got rolling.”
Analysis: The one negative, and it's a small one, is that Stafford was banged up in the win. He was smashed to the turf on his right shoulder and came up a bit gimpy after a play late in the fourth quarter. He should be OK but it's never good to see a quarterback returning from injury already showing signs of wear and tear. Stafford's next matchup is at the Jets, who shut out the Packers in Week 9 and have allowed opposing QBs to connect on multiple touchdowns four times but not in their last two games. Stafford is a borderline No. 1/No. 2 Fantasy option in Week 9 only because he's the guy throwing to Calvin Johnson.
News: Lions QB Matthew Stafford threw more deep routes Friday than during any other open drill this week, shelving his normal short routes for more difficult sideline and deep patterns. This was a final test of Stafford's throwing shoulder before Sunday's game. He appeared to pass with flying colors.
Analysis: Stafford has the chance to play well in his first game back against the Redskins, who are No. 31 in pass defense at 292 passing yards allowed with 10 touchdowns. We consider Stafford a potential starting Fantasy QB based on his matchup and all his weapons, which are led by Calvin Johnson. This should be the start of a promising finish to the season for Stafford after the start of his 2010 campaign was derailed with the injury.
News: The Detroit Free-Press reports Wednesday that Lions QB Matthew Stafford continued to take first-team reps on offense during practice and is on track to start Sunday in Week 8 against the Redskins for the first time since separating his throwing shoulder in the first half of a season-opening loss to the Chicago Bears. "It's frustrating, but it's part of the game," Stafford said. "Hopefully it's a part that will leave me alone for awhile and let me get out there and play."
Analysis: Stafford has the chance to play well in his first game back against the Redskins, who are No. 31 in pass defense at 292 passing yards allowed with 10 touchdowns. We consider Stafford a potential starting Fantasy QB based on his matchup and all his weapons, which are led by Calvin Johnson. This should be the start of a promising finish to the season for Stafford after the start of his 2010 campaign was derailed with the injury.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson says QB Matthew Stafford isn’t rusty after missing five weeks with an injured shoulder. “Matt (Stafford) has his timing back down,” Johnson said. “We’re right back on pace. I don’t think there were (incomplete passes) in 7-on-7 (drills). We came out fast.” WR Nate Burleson also says Stafford's shoulder isn’t a concern against the Redskins -- Detroit's Week 8 opponent. “(Stafford) will be 100 percent,” Burleson said. “The offensive line’s done a good job keeping people off our quarterbacks. If we can keep him clean hopefully we’ll walk away with a victory."
Analysis: We have to take Johnson's and Burleson's comments with a little grain of salt. It's not like they are going to say bad things about their quarterback. Still, all signs have been positive since Stafford returned to practice. QB Shaun Hill threw a lot in Stafford's absence and we probably can expect a lot of passes from Stafford as well, especially with RB Jahvid Best slowed by a turf toe injury. Even though Jay Cutler was picked off four times by the Redskins in Week 7, he still threw for 281 yards, becoming the fifth QB to break 280 passing yards against Washington this season. With so many key QBs on byes this week, Stafford passes as a low-end No. 1 Fantasy QB, even though he is coming off injury.
News: Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford is getting healthy. The former No. 1 pick practiced without restrictions Wednesday and could be seen throwing sharp, 15-yard routes to his teammates. "It was good work for him," coach Jim Schwartz said. "He’s not just throwing routes on air. He’s doing things where he has to move in the pocket. It was a big step." Stafford has not played since Week 1 when he was knocked out of the game on a sack by Chicago's Julius Peppers. His right shoulder was separated. He is expected to start Detroit's next game on Oct. 31 at home against Washington; the Lions have a bye this week, and backup quarterback Shaun Hill is out with a broken arm. "(Stafford) threw last Friday in practice," Schwartz said. "We got some good work (Wednesday). We'll get some (Thursday). We'll get some Friday. We'll get back to work on Tuesday, and then we'll go through a normal week."
Analysis: Stafford serves as a tremendous one-week replacement for owners with a quarterback on bye in Week 8, 9 or 10. The numbers that Shaun Hill had been putting up are expected to continue with Stafford, who has an even stronger arm. The fact that he's practicing and almost came into the Lions' game at New York last week tells us that his injury is in the past, and a strong second-half is ahead. Only owned in 46 pct. of CBSSports.com leagues, check your waiver wire to see if Stafford is available. Given that he was one of our top sleepers back in the summer, we think he'll deliver fantastic value as a waiver-wire addition.
News: Lions QB Matthew Stafford (shoulder) was inactive for Week 6 at the N.Y. Giants. He was listed as the emergency third QB and did suit up, however. And when Shaun Hill and backup Drew Stanton were knocked out of the game, Stafford put his helmet on and ran onto the field to get ready to lead the offense. However, Stanton was able to return after a timeout and Stafford returned to the bench. Stafford has not played since Week 1 due to a right shoulder injury.
Analysis: Stafford does appear to be closer than ever to being ready to resume starting duties and with a bye in Week 7 there is a good chance he could be back throwing the ball to Calvin Johnson and Co. by Week 8 against the Redskins. Continue to monitor his progress in the meantime. With Hill suffering a forearm injury that is likely to keep him out for some time, Stafford will be that much more likely to return. When healthy, he has the upside of a low-end No. 1 QB, though we still view him as a No. 2 option.
News: Lions QB Matthew Stafford (shoulder) was inactive for Week 6 at the N.Y. Giants. He was listed as the emergency third QB. Shaun Hill was once again tabbed to start. Stafford has not played since Week 1 due to a right shoulder injury.
Analysis: Stafford does appear to be closer than ever to being ready to resume starting duties and with a bye in Week 7 there is a good chance he could be back throwing the ball to Calvin Johnson and Co. by Week 8 against the Redskins. Continue to monitor his progress in the meantime. When healthy, he has the upside of a low-end No. 1 QB, though we still view him as a No. 2 option.
News: The Detroit Free Press reports that Lions QB Matthew Stafford did not join QBs Shaun Hill and Drew Stanton in a pregame throwing session with the team's wide receivers. Lions coach Jim Schwartz has not yet named a starter at quarterback for Week 6 at the Giants. Stafford has not played since Week 1 due to a right shoulder injury, and he has not been ruled out yet for Week 6.
Analysis: With Stafford sitting out the pregame warmup, owners have yet another reason not to count on him to start in Fantasy Week 6. Hill is still the likely starter, though owners should continue to monitor both quarterbacks' statuses. The likely scenario is that, with a bye week coming up, Stafford will return for Week 8 against Washington. When healthy, Stafford is a No. 2 Fantasy QB.
News: Lions QB Matthew Stafford (shoulder) threw passes during drills for the first time Friday since injuring his throwing shoulder in Week 1, and coach Jim Schwartz said he wouldn't decide on a starting QB until Sunday. But the Detroit News says Shaun Hill will start at the Giants in Week 6. All of Stafford’s reps were run at walk-through speed. His throwing motion looked normal, but there’s a big difference between a Friday walk-through and a Sunday game. If he plays, he'll be up against the top-ranked pass defense in the NFL through the first five weeks of the season. The Giants have allowed just 146 yards per game with five touchdown passes in five games. They have six interceptions with 19 sacks -- good for third in the NFL. Stafford is officially listed as questionable for Sunday.
Analysis: Stafford hasn’t officially been ruled out as the starter for Sunday’s game, but there has been no indication he’s ready to subject his shoulder to game action, and the report suggests he'll be sidelined. Even if he does get the nod, however, the matchup against an aggressive Giants defense that knocked two different Bears quarterbacks out of action in Week 4 doesn't bode well for an easy afternoon for Stafford. Don't count on starting him this week or in Week 7 because the Lions will be on a bye. Week 8 seems like a timely return for Stafford.
News: Lions QB Matthew Stafford (shoulder) did not practice Thursday. Detroit plays at the Giants in Week 6. Stafford said his injured shoulder responded well to throwing Wednesday during practice and intends to throw again Friday. "I'm feeling pretty good," Stafford said. "I'm getting better." If he plays, he'll be up against the top-ranked pass defense in the NFL through the first five weeks of the season. The Giants have allowed just 146 yards per game with five touchdown passes in five games. They have six interceptions with 19 sacks -- good for third in the NFL.
Analysis: On Wednesday, coach Jim Schwartz had not ruled out Stafford for Week 6, but with another day of missed practice here on Thursday, the chances of him playing on Sunday against the solid Giants defense are likely to be slim. Stafford hasn’t officially been ruled out as the starter for Sunday’s game, but there’s been no indication he’s ready to subject his shoulder to game action. Even if he does get the nod, however, the matchup against an aggressive Giants defense that knocked two different Bears quarterbacks out of action in Week 4 doesn't bode well for an easy afternoon for Stafford. Don't count on starting him this week or in Week 7 because the Lions will be on a bye.
News: Lions QB Matthew Stafford did not participate in Wednesday's practice due to his right shoulder injury. He has missed the last four games with the injury, but coach Jim Schwartz has not ruled out Stafford for Week 6 against the Giants. He did not name Shaun Hill his starting QB as he has in the past four weeks.“It’s an indication that (Lions QB) Matt(Stafford) is making good progress,” Schwartz said. “It’s too early to make any announcements.”
Analysis: We have expected Stafford to miss through the Lions Week 7 bye, but there is an outside shot at him playing against the Giants on Sunday. Still, it is only Wednesday and Schwartz only said Stafford is making good progress with the injury, not that he would start if healthy enough. We still expect Shaun Hill to start but we will monitor the situation throughout the week and keep you posted. When healthy, Stafford is a No. 2 Fantasy QB.
News: As expected, the Lions placed QB Matthew Stafford on the inactives list for Week 5 against St. Louis. Head coach Jim Schwartz announced on Wednesday that Stafford would not play and that Shaun Hill would get the nod as the starting quarterback. Stafford injured his shoulder in Week 1 and has not taken a snap since then.
Analysis: There is still no definitive timetable for Stafford's return, though there is a strong possibility that he could be out at least through the Lions' bye in Week 7. When healthy, Stafford can help owners as a No. 2 QB, so he should be stashed, particularly in deeper formats.
News: Lions QB Matthew Stafford offered limited insight into his shoulder’s rehab progress Thursday. “I threw a couple passes, whatever that means,” Stafford said. “I’m doing whatever they tell me to do in the training room, trying to get back (on the field).” The Lions have already announced that Shaun Hill will start in Week 5 against the Rams. Stafford would not discuss a timetable for his return. “I want to be 100 percent, or as close to 100 percent as I can be, healthy enough to go out and play,” Stafford said. “I’ll be out there as soon as I can.”
Analysis: Stafford says he’s stayed involved in the offense while rehabbing his shoulder. “I haven’t checked out,” Stafford said. “I’ve been at every meeting and game trying to help us get better, and learning what makes (the offense) successful and unsuccessful. It’s been a good process." Stafford hopes to hit the ground running as soon as he is active. There just isn't a timetable for that yet. It wouldn't be a surprise, however, if Stafford is held out until after Detroit completes its bye in Week 7. Keep Stafford stashed in deeper Fantasy formats.
News: Lions head coach Jim Schwartz confirmed Wednesday that QB Shaun Hill will start Sunday against the Rams. Schwartz said QB Matthew Stafford's shoulder rehab is "progressing," and while he has thrown in practice, Schwartz said Stafford still isn't ready to face game action. "We're talking about his throwing shoulder, and there's a lot of things where people can play with pain, some things that they can but they shouldn't, and the throwing shoulder might be one of those for a QB," Schwartz said on a media conference call on Wednesday.
Analysis: Stafford should continue to either be benched or sit on waivers until he returns to health and gets back under center for the Lions. When healthy he's nothing more than a No. 2 Fantasy QB anyway.
News: As expected, Lions QB Matthew Stafford (shoulder) was ruled inactive for Week 4 at Green Bay. Stafford, who was injured in Week 1 and hasn't played since, says his rehab is going well. “I’m on pace, and doing what I’m supposed to.” Stafford said. “I haven’t had any major setbacks, so that’s positive. I’m moving in the right direction, trying to get back as soon as I can.”
Analysis: Shaun Hill hasn't won in Stafford's absence yet, but even if he was, we doubt Detroit wouldn't turn to Stafford as soon as he is healthy. He is the future and present at QB, so Detroit can't afford to sit him. Keep track of his progress leading up to Week 5. Stafford is usually more of a No. 2 Fantasy QB when healthy.
News: As expected, Lions QB Matthew Stafford is officially out for the Week 4 game against the Packers due to an injury to his right shoulder. He injured his throwing shoulder in the Week 1 loss to the Bears, when Julius Peppers drove him into the ground. Stafford has been rehabbing it successfully thus far. “I’m on pace, and doing what I’m supposed to.” Stafford said. “I haven’t had any major setbacks, so that’s positive. I’m moving in the right direction, trying to get back as soon as I can.” Shaun Hill mill make his third straight start of the season in Stafford's place.
Analysis: Stafford has thrown the ball to some degree, but he was vague when asked just how much he was throwing. The Lions host the Rams in Week 5, which could be Stafford's return in a best-case scenario. When healthy, Stafford is a No. 2 Fantasy QB. Keep him stashed away until he returns to the starting lineup for Detroit.
News: Lions QB Matthew Stafford feels his shoulder rehab is going well. “I’m on pace, and doing what I’m supposed to.” Stafford said. “I haven’t had any major setbacks, so that’s positive. I’m moving in the right direction, trying to get back as soon as I can.” Stafford was vague when describing the amount of throwing he’s doing in practice. “It’s not throwing as far as you can, as hard as you can,” Stafford said. “It’s somewhere between no throwing and that.” Shaun Hill will make his third straight start in place of Stafford in Week 4 against the Packers.
Analysis: Hill hasn't won yet in Stafford's absence, but even if he did, we aren't sure it would keep Stafford from regaining his starting job. The Lions have way too much invested in Stafford to have him sitting on the sidelines. Unless he really ramps up his throwing leading up to Week 5, then it's doubtful he returns next week. Continue to stash Stafford on Fantasy benches until further notice.
News: The Detroit Lions will start quarterback Shaun Hill again this weekend at Green Bay while Matthew Stafford continues to recover from a shoulder injury. Stafford was knocked out of the season opener by Chicago's Julius Peppers, putting him on the sideline with a banged-up right shoulder - his third injury in two seasons. Stafford missed six games last year after being the No. 1 pick in the draft because of a banged-up left shoulder and right knee. Stafford told WJR-AM on Monday that he would likely test his injured right shoulder with some throwing this week, but he didn't throw any passes Wednesday during the part of practice open to the media.
Analysis: It's getting harder and harder to keep Stafford on rosters as a quality backup, especially when quarterbacks like Kyle Orton, Chad Henne, Mark Sanchez and Michael Vick are playing well after not getting much attention on Draft Day. Stafford still has the same potential we saw in him during the preseason, but because his timetable is not known, it's not a terrible idea to move on if it means getting a healthy quarterback on the roster first.
News: Lions QB Matthew Stafford said during a radio interview with WWJR on Monday that he will begin light throwing in practice this week. Stafford has been out since separating his shoulder in Week 1.
Analysis: There were initial rumors early last week that Stafford might be back for Week 3, but those were quickly extinguished when it emerged that Stafford wouldn't even begin throwing until this week. The second-year QB is likely at least still a couple of weeks away from returning, so continue to bench him for Week 4 unless he makes ridiculous progress starting at practice on Wednesday. When healthy, Stafford should be considered a solid No. 2 Fantasy QB.
News: Lions QB Matthew Stafford (shoulder) was among the inactives listed for Week 3 at Minnesota, as expected. He had been ruled out on the injury report earlier in the week. The No. 1 pick in the 2009 NFL draft injured his throwing arm in the season-opening loss at Chicago and missed Week 2 against Philadelphia.
Analysis: Stafford is supposed to be the Lions' franchise QB, but this kid is having a tough time staying healthy. Everyone knows he is talented and has one of the best receivers in the league at his disposal -- Calvin Johnson. Stafford has the potential to do some serious damage in Fantasy, but first he has to get healthy. Continue to monitor his progress. Stafford hurt his shoulder in Week 1 and was expected to miss 3-8 weeks.
News: Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford (right shoulder) will not play Week 3 against the Vikings as he was officially ruled out on Friday. The No. 1 pick in the 2009 NFL draft injured his throwing arm in the season-opening loss at Chicago and missed Week 2 against Philadelphia. Stafford missed six games last year with an injured left shoulder and right knee. Shaun Hill will once again start in Week 3 for Detroit.
Analysis: Stafford is supposed to be the Lions' franchise QB, but this kid is having a tough time staying healthy. Everyone knows he is talented and has one of the best receivers in the league at his disposal -- Calvin Johnson. Stafford has the potential to do some serious damage in Fantasy, but first he has to get healthy. Keep him reserved for Week 3.
News: After saying earlier in the day that QB Matthew Stafford (shoulder) had yet to be ruled out for Week 3, Lions coach Jim Schwartz said later Wednesday that Shaun Hill will be his starter against the Vikings. Stafford has yet to begin throwing and did not practice Wednesday.
Analysis: Stafford hurt his shoulder in Week 1 and was expected to miss 3-8 weeks, so this would have been a miraculous recovery if the young gunslinger had managed to get back under center this Sunday. Continue to stash Stafford away if you can afford to, as he could continue to be a nice sleeper option in Fantasy play if this shoulder problem doesn't turn out to be anything that hinders him.
News: Lions coach Jim Schwartz said in his press conference Wednesday that QB Matt Stafford (shoulder) isn't yet ruled out for Week 3 against the Vikings.
Analysis: Stafford hurt his shoulder in Week 1 and was expected to miss 3-8 weeks, so this would be a miraculous recovery if the young gunslinger can get back under center this Sunday. Keep an eye on his progress at this week goes along, although the Vikings aren't the greatest matchup for any QB, so you might want to continue to look elsewhere in one-QB leagues for Week 3.
News: Lions QB Matthew Stafford (right shoulder) is officially inactive for Week 2 against the Eagles. Stafford was expected to miss the game as he'd been ruled out earlier in the practice week. Shaun Hill was announced as the team's starter for Week 2 vs. Philadelphia.
Analysis: Stafford should remain benched or on waivers for the time being. Once he's healthy, he'll be worth considering for Fantasy use given the explosiveness of the Lions offense. If you're in a pinch and need someone to replace Stafford, check out waivers for Michael Vick, Jason Campbell, Derek Anderson or perhaps even Hill.
News: Lions QB Matthew Stafford watched practice Wednesday while Shaun Hill participated in drills Wednesday during the portion of practice open to reporters. Head coach Jim Schwartz said earlier this week he didn't think Stafford would need surgery, but the quarterback will meet with orthopedist Dr. James Andrews for a second opinion on his shoulder injury. Published reports speculate that Stafford has a second-degree shoulder separation and could miss between three and eight weeks. Shaun Hill was announced as the team's starter for Week 2 vs. Philadelphia.
Analysis: Stafford should remain benched or on waivers for the time being. Once he's healthy, he'll be worth considering for Fantasy use given the explosiveness of the Lions offense. If you're in a pinch and need someone to replace Stafford, check out waivers for Michael Vick, Jason Campbell, Derek Anderson or perhaps even Hill.
News: Lions coach Jim Schwartz says Matthew Stafford's injured right shoulder won't need surgery, but added that there's no timetable on Stafford's return. The second-year QB was knocked out of the season opener when Chicago's Julius Peppers sacked him Sunday. Stafford said after the game he would try to play in Week 2 at home against Philadelphia, but reports surfaced that the big gunslinger would miss a couple of weeks at least. Schwartz says Stafford was very sore on Monday, but got good returns from tests. Shaun Hill started the third quarter in place of Stafford and appeared to make a game-winning throw to Calvin Johnson, but it was ruled incomplete. Hill is expected to start vs. the Eagles on Sunday. "When he's healthy, he'll be back on the field. We don't want to rush him back if he's unable to take a hit or make the throws he needs to make to play quarterback," said Schwartz.
Analysis: We don't expect Stafford to play in Week 2 against the Eagles, but continue to monitor his status. Even if he's healthy to play in his first home start in 2010, keep him reserved since the Eagles have a solid secondary and Stafford wouldn't be close to 100 percent. When healthy, Stafford should be considered a backup Fantasy QB save for really good matchups.
News: Detroit Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford's status for the next game is uncertain after he left the season opener against Chicago with a right shoulder injury following a blindside sack by the Bears' Julius Peppers. Shaun Hill started the third quarter in place of Stafford, whose arm was in a sling as he stood on the sideline. The Lions would not say if he had X-rays. Stafford said he will go through tests this week and is not sure if he'll be ready for the Lions' game against Philadelphia. "I don't know, we'll see," he said. "I will try, though." Stafford was 11 of 15 passing for 83 yards and a lost fumble before leaving the game.
Analysis: The Bears' Matt Forte had just scored an 89-yard touchdown on a screen to pull Chicago within 14-10 when Stafford went down. He was hit in the shoulder by Peppers as he dropped back to pass and landed on it, the ball coming loose in the process. Chicago's Tommie Harris recovered, and the Bears took over on the 37 after a 15-yard penalty against Brian Urlacher with 15 seconds left. There is a report that Stafford could miss up to six weeks, but it hasn't been confirmed by the Lions. Everything is purely speculative. It doesn't look positive, however, that Stafford is going to be a viable Fantasy option heading into Week 2 against the Eagles. The Lions are expecting big things from Stafford in 2010, especially since he surrounded by the likes of Jahvid Best, Nate Burleson, Tony Scheffler and Calvin Johnson. However, he remains more of a No. 2 Fantasy QB when healthy. He has to prove his worth first.
News: Lions QB Matthew Stafford hurt his right shoulder in the first half of Sunday's game at Chicago in Week 1. He is not expected to return and was replaced by Shaun Hill. Stafford was 11 of 15 passing for 83 yards and a lost fumble before leaving the game.
Analysis: We hope that Stafford isn't seriously injured and can return in time for Week 2 against Philadelphia. Stafford is poised for a big year in 2010 with the additions on offense the Lions made with Jahvid Best, Nate Burleson and Tony Scheffler to add to Calvin Johnson. When healthy, Stafford is a solid No. 2 Fantasy QB with the chance to be a spot starter when the matchup is right.
News: Lions second-year QB Matthew Stafford only faced the Bears, his Week 1 opponent Sunday, once as a rookie last year, and he played well in Chicago with 296 passing yards, one touchdown and one interception before injuring his knee. This year, he should play well again since the Lions offense is poised for a big year with talented weapons in Calvin Johnson, Nate Burleson, Tony Scheffler and Jahvid Best. The Bears defense will definitely improve from last year with Brian Urlacher (wrist) back and the addition of Julius Peppers, but Stafford still has the chance to post quality starts in the first start of his second year. Last year, Chicago allowed 29 passing touchdowns with only 13 interceptions.
Analysis: We consider Stafford a sleeper for Week 1 since he could post quality stats based on his opponent and the talent of his receiving corps. If you drafted a starting Fantasy QB with a difficult matchup in Week 1 -- Joe Flacco at the Jets or Brett Favre at New Orleans -- you might consider going with Stafford instead since he might post better stats. Stafford is in line for a breakout year in 2010.
News: Lions QB Matthew Stafford played well in Saturday's preseason game against Cleveland. Stafford was 13 of 17 for 141 yards and one touchdown. He also had one carry for minus-1 yard. Stafford completed passes to seven different receivers, and he threw a 7-yard touchdown pass to Bryant Johnson. He most likely won’t see much action vs. Buffalo in Thursday's preseason finale, but this performance indicates he’s ready for the regular season.
Analysis: Stafford is a nice sleeper to target in 2010. He has tremendous targets in Calvin Johnson, Nate Burleson, Tony Scheffler and Jahvid Best, and he should take a huge step forward in his production in his sophomore year. He's not at the level of a No. 1 Fantasy QB yet, but he's a definite No. 2 option to target in all leagues. Plan on grabbing Stafford with a late-round pick on Draft Day.
News: Lions QB Matthew Stafford has thrown the ball more accurately over the middle this camp than he did last year. Accuracy, and the addition of targets like TE Tony Scheffler, will force secondaries to respect passes over the middle, allowing WR Calvin Johnson more favorable matchups.
Analysis: Stafford has looked superb so far this preseason, and the Lions could certainly be an improved team in 2010 if everyone stays healthy. The sophomore's stock has steadily been rising since the opening of camp, and Stafford is certainly worth a look as a solid No. 2 Fantasy QB in about round 11 or so.
News:Matthew Stafford continued to look the part of a franchise quarterback for the Lions in preseason action at the Broncos on Saturday. Stafford was 13-of-20 for 130 yards, guiding the Lions to scores on all four of their first-half drives including a 20-yard jump ball to receiver Calvin Johnson over cornerback Andre Goodman for a touchdown.
Analysis: Stafford looks great and the Lions' first-team offense has been really strong this preseason. His only interception in seven offensive series came on a tipped ball, and he's connected twice with Johnson. We've been seeing Stafford's draft stock rise -- currently he's being taken 131st overall (Round 11), but he's quickly becoming a trendy No. 2 Fantasy QB that might be this year's breakut quarterback. We think he's worth that middle- to late-round pick in all drafts, and we're believing more and more that he will pass 3,500 yards and 20 touchdowns this season so long as he and Calvin Johnson stay healthy.
News: Lions QB Matthew Stafford played three series at the Steelers in the team's preseason opener and looked sharp. He completed 8 of 11 passes for 61 yards, including two nice catches by new wideout Nate Burleson and an easy touchdown connection on a 2-yard stop route with Calvin Johnson. Stafford was also intercepted when a pass right on the money to rookie RB Jahvid Best was tipped off the rusher's fingers and into Steelers safety Ryan Clark's hands. Stafford had the most success hitting his receivers on out routes toward the sideline and throws in the middle of the field underneath the Steelers' zone.
Analysis: This continues to reaffirm what we've heard all summer: Stafford is much improved. Armed with a tremendous talent in Calvin Johnson and good supporting talent in Jahvid Best, Tony Scheffler and Nate Burleson, there's potential for a 3,500-yard, 20-plus touchdown season. Plus, he's leading the Lions' offense, which could mean lots of passing while playing from behind thanks to the Lions' suspect defense. We like Stafford as a quality No. 2 Fantasy QB, though he obviously has upside. Look his way with a middle- to late-round pick.
News: Detroit WR Calvin Johnson thinks second-year QB Matthew Stafford did his homework during the offseason. “He put in a lot of time to learn our entire offense so he really has the whole offense down," Johnson said. "Passing, he can do whatever. He’s got a heck of a job to do.” Stafford will look to improve on his 53.3 completion percentage and 20 interceptions in 10 games for the Lions.
Analysis: Stafford is at the helm of the Lions and seems like he was diligent this offseason. He threw just 13 touchdowns last year, but was hampered by knee and shoulder injuries. With his main target Johnson on his side, Stafford should improve. He has some targets to throw the ball to, so he has potential to put up decent numbers. Stafford is worth a late-round pick in all Fantasy leagues as he has appeal as a No. 2 QB.
News: The Detroit News reports there's some pressure on Lions QB Matthew Stafford to play well in his second year. The report states that the Lions are only going as far as Stafford can take them. He's no longer a rookie battling for a starting position, like he was during last year's camp. He's been given the keys to the offense and has had an entire offseason to tune up. But Stafford has to play better than last year when he had 20 interceptions in 10 games and completed 53.3 percent of his passes. The story says "he needs to be a lot better than that."
Analysis: We agree, and Stafford should be ready for an improved season, where he only threw 13 touchdowns and was limited with knee and shoulder injuries. He's expected to be 100 percent for the start of the year and has an improved receiving corps, which features Calvin Johnson, Nate Burleson, Tony Scheffler and Jahvid Best. We like Stafford as a No. 2 Fantasy QB, and he's worth a late-round pick in all leagues.
News: The Detroit Free-Press reports Lions QB Matthew Stafford said he was disappointed with his performance last year as a rookie, and he hopes to improve this season. "As a competitor, yeah," said Stafford, who threw 13 touchdowns and 20 interceptions. "Obviously I hate losing -- I hate throwing interceptions and all that. I knew it was going to be a learning process -- I had to have that attitude to come in with it. I've already started watching film from last year and trying to learn from my mistakes even more. ... I'm just trying to flip my touchdown-to-interceptions and make it at least 2-to-1, something like that. But the big part is getting wins -- being able to manage the game enough to win."
Analysis: Stafford has the chance for a big season in 2010 as long as he can stay healthy. The addition of Nate Burleson and Tony Scheffler to his receiving corps as well as rookie RB Jahvid Best should improve his weapons, and let's not forget about his main target, Calvin Johnson. We like Stafford as a No. 2 Fantasy QB this season with the chance for him to be a quality one-week replacement or even more if he improves as expected. Plan on drafting Stafford with a late-round pick in all seasonal leagues.
News: The Detroit Free-Press reports Lions QB Matthew Stafford and WR Calvin Johnson are starting to develop a solid rapport. "We've got to keep working," Stafford said. "But I feel like we're getting on the same page more and more. He knows what I'm looking at, I know what he's looking at and it's getting better." Stafford and Johnson couldn't develop much chemistry last offseason because Stafford didn't join the veterans until May, then didn't get all the reps with the first team until September. Johnson missed much of training camp because of injury. "They've been at it strong since mid-March, so we should be seeing stuff like that," coach Jim Schwartz said.
Analysis: Stafford has the chance for a big season in 2010 as long as he can stay healthy. The addition of Nate Burleson and Tony Scheffler to his receiving corps as well as rookie RB Jahvid Best should improve his weapons, and let's not forget about Johnson. We like Stafford as a No. 2 Fantasy QB this season with the chance for him to be a quality one-week replacement or even more if he improves as expected. Plan on drafting Stafford with a late-round pick in all seasonal leagues.
News: The reports from Detroit continue to be positive regarding QB Matthew Stafford. The former No. 1 overall pick has remained sharp during OTA workouts, with the biggest change being the accuracy of his short-yardage passes. Last season they were problematic, but they're laser accurate now. He's also more vocal, stopping a red-zone drill to protest a throw to WR Nate Burleson that was ruled incomplete.
Analysis: Everything we've seen and heard about Stafford has been positive, and as a result our expectations are higher than they were when the 2009 season ended. He's got an improved receiving corps, an improved offensive line and a good scheme to run behind coordinator Scott Linehan. He could easily top 3,500 yards and get close to 20 touchdowns, thus become a productive Fantasy quarterback. He's a safer No. 2 option than he was last year and is worth a late-round pick in drafts.
News: Lions QB Matthew Stafford continues to look sharp during spring workouts, throwing crisply and on-target. Most recently he threw mostly seam, screen and underneath routes during OTA drills Tuesday. Ineffective QB play has limited the ability for the Lions to capitalize on routes designed to generate yards after the catch in recent years, but with the pace and precision Stafford has, the Lions' YAC could surprise a lot of people in 2010.
Analysis: The Lions have been impressed with Stafford's off-the-field work, which includes improving his role as a leader on the team. With the likes of Calvin Johnson, Nate Burleson and second-year burner Derrick Williams among those players at his disposal, Stafford will have the targets to connect with. He could easily top 3,500 yards and get close to 20 touchdowns, thus become a productive Fantasy quarterback. He's a safer No. 2 option than he was last year and is worth a late-round pick in drafts.
News: Lions coach Jim Schwartz attributes QB Matthew Stafford's impressive OTA workouts to the lack of rookie pressure on him. "He doesn't have as much on his plate now," Schwartz said Thursday. "He's done a lot of work with the receivers, and it's helping him." Stafford said the knee and shoulder injuries he suffered in 2009 are not affecting him during workouts. "The shoulder is fine, the leg, I can step into throws just like I did before," he said. "They don't bother me."
Analysis: Stafford has the chance for a big season in 2010 as long as he can stay healthy. The addition of Nate Burleson and Tony Scheffler to his receiving corps as well as rookie RB Jahvid Best should improve his weapons, and let's not forget about his main target, Calvin Johnson. We like Stafford as a No. 2 Fantasy QB this season with the chance for him to be a quality one-week replacement or even more if he improves as expected. Plan on drafting Stafford with a late-round pick in all seasonal leagues.
News: Lions second-year QB Matthew Stafford threw without problems and took part in all of the team's drills on the first day of their current OTA, according to Mlive.com. Stafford is recovering from offseason shoulder and knee surgery but is expected to be OK for the start of the season.
Analysis: Stafford finished his rookie year by completing 201 of 377 passes for 2,267 yards with 13 touchdowns and 20 interceptions this season. He either threw or ran for a touchdown in all 10 of his starts. If the foursome of Nate Burleson, Calvin Johnson and TEs Tony Scheffler and Brandon Pettigrew can stay healthy, Stafford could easily top 3,500 yards and get close to 20 touchdowns, thus become a productive Fantasy quarterback. He's a safer No. 2 option than he was last year and is worth a late-round pick in drafts.
News: Lions QB Matthew Stafford will need help to lead a turnaround. Stafford thinks he's getting it. "It's great to know the front office is trying to build around me and give me as many weapons as they can," he said Tuesday. The Lions kicked off free agency by signing WR Nate Burleson, acquired guard Rob Sims earlier this month and TE Tony Scheffler on Monday in trades. Stafford said he was excited about playing with the 6-foot-5, 250-pound Scheffler. "He's got a lot of range as a down-the-field guy," Stafford said. "He's another big target." Stafford was a target for every team he faced last season, leading to his right knee requiring surgery and his left shoulder needing rest. The No. 1 pick in the 2009 NFL draft was limited to playing 10 games, but was healthy enough to participate in the team's first organized workout this offseason. "I got out there and ran around the guys for the first time," he said. "I dropped back and threw every pass I was scheduled to throw. The shoulder feels great."
Analysis: Lions coach Jim Schwartz said Stafford's rehabilitation is on schedule. "He's throwing 100 percent," Schwartz said. "He's taking drops. He's just not ready for the 100-meter dash." Stafford threw 13 touchdowns - five in one game - and 20 interceptions for a team that won just twice after being the NFL's first 0-16 team. We like Stafford to improve in 2010, but he remains a No. 2 Fantasy QB. The addition of Burleson and Scheffler, along with the standout talent of WR Calvin Johnson, should help Stafford improve from his rookie year. But he remains a solid backup Fantasy option worth a late-round pick.
News: Good news for prospective Matthew Stafford owners: The Lions signed WR Nate Burleson at the onset of free agency to a five-year deal with $11 million guaranteed. He'll line up across the field from stud receiver Calvin Johnson, catch passes from Matthew Stafford and do it indoors for 10 games in 2010. The former Vikings and Seahawks receiver had his second-best year in receptions and receiving yards, grabbing 63 passes for 812 yards (12.9 avg.) and three touchdowns.
Analysis: Stafford told CBSSports.com that he feels good following offseason shoulder and knee surgery and expects to be ready for the start of the team's offseason minicamps. He finished his rookie year by completing 201 of 377 passes for 2,267 yards with 13 touchdowns and 20 interceptions this season. He either threw or ran for a touchdown in all 10 of his starts. If the trio of Burleson, Calvin Johnson and TE Brandon Pettigrew can stay healthy, Stafford could easily top 3,500 yards and 20 touchdowns and be a productive Fantasy quarterback. He's a safer No. 2 option than he was before and worth a late-round pick in drafts.
News: Lions QB Matthew Stafford said in an interview with CBSSports.com that his shoulder and knee "feel good," and he plans to be ready for the start of offseason workouts in March. "My shoulder and my knee are healing up well," Stafford said. "Hopefully I'll be 100 percent by the time March 15 rolls around when I have to be back up in Detroit." Stafford, the No. 1 overall pick, was placed on injured reserve in December following knee surgery. He finished his rookie year by completing 201 of 377 passes for 2,267 yards with 13 touchdowns and 20 interceptions this season. He either threw or ran for a touchdown in all 10 of his starts. "I felt good about it," Stafford said of his rookie year. "I obviously wanted to win more games than two, but at the same time, I learned a lot and got a lot of experience."
Analysis: Stafford is excited about the outlook for the Lions in 2010, especially playing with standout WR Calvin Johnson. "He's an unbelievable player," Stafford said. "He's a special talent. The offense has a lot of potential." Stafford has the potential to be a starting Fantasy option down the road, but go into 2010 with him as a No. 2 Fantasy QB worth a late-round pick. He will make strides during the season, but don't count on him as a weekly starting option.
News: The Detroit Lions say quarterback Matthew Stafford has undergone successful surgery on his right knee. Stafford had what the Lions called minor surgery on Tuesday. He was placed on injured reserve last week after a physical exam revealed he wouldn't be ready to play in Sunday's season finale against Chicago.
Analysis: Stafford completed 201 of 377 passes for 2,267 yards with 13 touchdowns and 20 interceptions this season. He either threw or ran for a touchdown in all 10 of his starts, including one pass in Detroit's 19-14 win over Washington in Week 3. While Stafford should obviously be dropped in seasonal formats, he retains solid keeper value as the No. 1 overall pick from earlier this year. He'll enter 2010 as a No. 2 Fantasy QB.
News: The season is over for Lions QB Matthew Stafford, who has been placed on injured reserve ahead of what the team calls minor right knee surgery. "We anticipate a minor surgery just to clean out some irritants and debris," coach Jim Schwartz said. "Since he's had (the injury), he's had on and off swelling. It's been stuff he's been able to play through, but it's also something we knew we needed to address after the season." Drew Stanton will start in Stafford's place at San Francisco.
Analysis: While Stafford should obviously be dropped in seasonal formats, he retains solid keeper value as the No. 1 overall pick from earlier this year. He'll enter 2010 as a No. 2 Fantasy QB. Stanton, meanwhile, cannot be relied upon to be any better than a candidate to throw for 200 yards, with maybe one touchdown and some turnovers against a 49ers defense that will still play hard. Even with Calvin Johnson at his disposal, keep Stanton out of Fantasy lineups unless it's as a low-end No. 2 Fantasy QB.
News: Lions head coach Jim Schwartz named Drew Stanton the team's starter for Week 16 at San Francisco. Stanton came in to replace starter Daunte Culpepper last week vs. the Cardinals and nearly led the team to a win. Stanton completed 10 of 19 passes for 72 yards with an interception, but he also had 10 yards rushing with a rush touchdown. "The stats didn't bear out, but he moved the team and he scored points," said Schwartz. "The one thing is, Drew in his career has never gone through a week as the starter, getting the starter reps and having that time to prepare. I think he was able to do some things not getting a lot of reps in the past. We need him to get the reps and be able to deliver for a full game." Matthew Stafford did not practice on Wednesday with a left shoulder injury and will not start the game, anyway.
Analysis: While it helps Stanton that he'll have time to adjust to the offense and be ready to play against the 49ers, which is a good matchup for typically any other quarterback, the reality is that he's struggled over the course of his career and cannot be relied upon to be any better than a candidate to throw for 200 yards, maybe one touchdown with some turnovers against a 49ers defense that will still play hard. Even with Calvin Johnson at his disposal, keep Stanton out of Fantasy lineups unless it's as a low-end No. 2 Fantasy QB.
News: Lions coach Jim Schwartz has not ruled out Matthew Stafford from returning Sunday against San Francisco after missing two games with a shoulder injury. But Schwartz said Monday that he hopes to decide on a starting quarterback by Wednesday. If Stafford can't play against the 49ers, Schwartz will decide between Daunte Culpepper and Drew Stanton. Culpepper was pulled at halftime of a 31-24 loss to Arizona last weekend, and Stanton led a second-half rally.
Analysis: No one expects the Lions to roll out their prized rookie with a damaged shoulder in a meaningless game, and it wouldn't be a surprise to see Stanton get the nod since the team is familiar with what Culpepper can do. Regardless, no Lions QB is any better than a low-end No. 2 Fantasy QB for their upcoming matchup against the 49ers.
News: The Lions deactivated QB Matthew Stafford (shoulder) for Week 15 against Arizona. He had been considered doubtful leading up to the game. He was replaced by Daunte Culpepper.
Analysis: We didn't expect Stafford to play against the Cardinals, and he should only be owned in keeper leagues for the rest of this season. Culpepper should be considered a No. 2 Fantasy QB at best while he fills in for Stafford.
News: Lions QB Matthew Stafford (shoulder) missed practice for a third straight day Friday as Detroit prepares for their Week 15 game vs. Arizona. He is officially listed as doubtful for the contest and isn't likely to play. Daunte Culpepper will replace him at QB.
Analysis: We didn't expect Stafford to play against the Cardinals, and he should only be owned in keeper leagues for the rest of this season. Culpepper should be considered a No. 2 Fantasy QB against Arizona.
News: Lions QB Matt Stafford (shoulder) sat out practice again Thursday and has been ruled out for Sunday's game against Arizona. Stafford had an ice pack on his shoulder during practice. Daunte Culpepper will start against the Cardinals.
Analysis: We didn't expect Stafford to play against the Cardinals, and he should only be owned in keeper leagues for the rest of this season. Culpepper should be considered a No. 2 Fantasy QB against Arizona.
News:Matthew Stafford watched the Lions practice Wednesday with his left shoulder wrapped in ice and he will probably miss Sunday's home game against the Arizona Cardinals. Coach Jim Schwartz says Stafford is "not likely" to play, meaning that Daunte Culpepper will start vs. the Cardinals in Week 15.
Analysis: Stafford has had some up and down moments this season and the Lions don't seem to have much reason to keep using their future franchise QB. Look for Culpepper to play but not do well against a solid Arizona defense. Stafford is only worth owning in long-term keeper formats. Culpepper, if he starts, is no better than a low-end No. 2 QB option.
News: Detroit QB Matthew Stafford will rest his injured left shoulder on Sunday at Baltimore. Daunte Culpepper will start in Stafford's place.
Analysis: There is a chance that Stafford could also be held out Week 15 against the Cardinals. He has not made a significant impact in Fantasy this season and is only worth owning in long-term keeper formats. Culpepper is not a recommended Fantasy option for Week 14 either as the Lions take on a tough Ravens defense.
News: The Lions plan to rest Matthew Stafford's banged-up, non-throwing shoulder for at least one game but don't expect to shut him down for the rest of the season. Lions coach Jim Schwartz said Wednesday that Daunte Culpepper will start at Baltimore and Stafford likely will be the No. 3 quarterback. Stafford aggravated his left shoulder Sunday at Cincinnati. "If he hadn't taken that hit in the fourth quarter of the Cincy game, we wouldn't be having this discussion," Schwartz said. "It was a very similar hit to the one that he took in the Cleveland game and we want to avoid the situation where it becomes something chronic. Structurally, everything is still on course. It's sore and we just wanted to avoid a continuing cycle of come back, get hit, come back, get hit. We'll give it time to rest and put it behind him." On Friday, Stafford was officially listed as doubtful on the injury report after not practicing all week.
Analysis: Schwartz also acknowledged there's a chance Stafford will miss more than one game, which means Culpepper would steer the Lions' offense for a little while. Ultimately, neither Lions QB is worth using as anything more than a low-end No. 2 Fantasy option at Baltimore in Week 14.
News: Detroit Lions coach Jim Schwartz never wants to share injury information with his opponents. When the injury is to his starting quarterback, Schwartz plays things even closer to the vest. On Monday, one day after rookie Matt Stafford left Detroit's game against Cincinnati with an aggravation of his separated left (non-throwing) shoulder, Schwartz wasn't giving any hints to his availability for Sunday's game in Baltimore. "I've got a pretty good idea of his status, but I don't feel any need to tell Baltimore that information," Schwartz said. "They play Monday night this week, so they are already facing a short week and the difficulties that brings. I'd rather not help their game-planning process by letting them know which quarterback we expect to play."
Analysis: Stafford has had some up and down moments this season and the Lions don't seem to have much reason to keep using their future franchise QB. Look for Daunte Culpepper to likely face a ferocious Baltimore defense Week 14. Stafford is only worth owning in long-term keeper formats. Culpepper, if he starts Week 14, will not be a recommended Fantasy option.
News: Lions rookie QB Matthew Stafford says he'll think about sitting out a game or two so his sore left shoulder can heal. Stafford aggravated his non-throwing shoulder in the closing minutes of a 23-13 loss to the Bengals on Sunday. Linebacker Dhani Jones drove him onto the shoulder after he threw a pass. Stafford left the game and sat on the bench the rest of the way. The top pick in the draft originally hurt the shoulder during a win over Cleveland on Nov. 22. He'll have medical tests when he gets back to Detroit. Stafford says the injury is painful, and he'll consider resting it. Stafford finished Sunday's game with 143 passing yards, a TD and two interceptions on 11 for 26 passing.
Analysis: Stafford has had some up and down moments this season and the Lions don't seem to have much reason to keep using their future franchise QB. Look for Daunte Culpepper to likely face a ferocious Baltimore defense Week 14. Stafford is only worth owning in long-term keeper formats. Culpepper, if he starts Week 14, will not be a recommended Fantasy option.
News: Detroit QB Matthew Stafford will be active for the team's Week 13 game against the Bengals.
Analysis: As any rookie quarterback, Stafford has had his up-and-down moments. While we don't doubt he has a bright future in the NFL, he just isn't trustworthy in Fantasy. Stafford is not a recommended Fantasy start for Week 13 even though he will be active.
News: Lions QB Matthew Stafford (left shoulder) is listed as probable for Week 13 at Cincinnati. He practiced all week. Stafford played in Week 12 against the Packers after hurting his non-throwing shoulder late in Week 11. Unfortunately, he passed for only 213 yards and was picked four times.
Analysis: As any rookie quarterback, Stafford has had his up-and-down moments. While we don't doubt he has a bright future in the NFL, he just isn't trustworthy in Fantasy. Stafford is not a recommended Fantasy start for Week 13.
News: Injuries appear to be a non-issue for Lions QB Matt Stafford (shoulder) and WR Calvin Johnson (knee). Both practiced fully for the second consecutive day Thursday and will likely play at Cincinnati, barring any major setbacks. Stafford is dealing with an injury in his left, non-throwing shoulder, and Johnson has been bothered with a knee injury the past few weeks.
Analysis: Johnson should be considered a No. 2 Fantasy WR in all leagues. The matchup with the Bengals isn't ideal, but Johnson is too talented to keep reserved as long as he's 100 percent healthy. Stafford should be considered a low-end No. 2 Fantasy QB in this matchup.
News: Detroit QB Matthew Stafford (left shoulder) was able to practice in full on Wednesday as the team prepares for its Week 13 game against the Bengals. Stafford threw four interceptions while completing 20 of 43 passes for just 213 yards in Week 12 against the Packers.
Analysis: Stafford said his shoulder wasn't a factor in his play Week 12 as he took pain medication before the game. He'll have another tough matchup in Week 13 against the Bengals in Cincinnati, so continue to keep him reserved in deeper leagues and on waivers in standard formats. He should play through the injury.
News: Playing on Thanksgiving vs. the Packers, Lions QB Matthew Stafford started in spite of being listed as doubtful and came out on fire with a touchdown to Calvin Johnson. Then, he fell apart, throwing four interceptions while completing 20 of 43 passes for just 213 yards. Stafford also had 21 yards on three carries. Stafford's touchdown came on a 1-yard strike to Calvin Johnson, who caught a low pass in the end zone away from cornerback Charles Woodson. Stafford's first interception came on a third down in the first quarter when Nick Collins leaped for the ball and got his feet down in bounds just before falling out of bounds. His second was swiped by Tramon Williams, again on a sideline pass in the second quarter. His third interception came early in the third quarter when he threw low for Bryant Johnson and Woodson dove for it and got it before hitting the turf. And his fourth interception was a nifty pick by Woodson, who got in front of Calvin Johnson and took the pick to the house for a touchdown.
Analysis: This was Stafford's third game with three interceptions this season. He said his shoulder wasn't a factor in his play as he took pain medication before the game. He'll have another tough matchup in Week 13 against the Bengals in Cincinnati, so continue to keep him reserved in deeper leagues and on waivers in standard formats.
News: The Lions have announced that Matthew Stafford will start vs. the Packers on Thanksgiving. Stafford was doubtful with a dislocated left shoulder and didn't practice all week but apparently is healthy enough to play. Daunte Culpepper will back him up.
Analysis: Stafford isn't worth starting in Fantasy play -- there are safer and healthier options out there, plus the Lions' matchup is a tough one. It's best to keep Stafford benched or reserved in Fantasy play.
News: Lions QB Matthew Stafford missed practice again on Wednesday and is listed as doubtful for Week 12 vs. the Packers with a dislocated left shoulder. Daunte Culpepper is expected to start in his place on Thanksgiving.
Analysis: We expected Culpepper to play since the game will be only four days after Stafford got hurt. Consider Culpepper to be no better than a low-end No. 2 Fantasy QB vs. the Packers on Thanksgiving Day while Stafford should at best continue to ride the Fantasy pine while he's hurt in deeper leagues and dynasty/keeper formats. It won't help Culpepper that Calvin Johnson is questionable and didn't practice all week, either.
News:Matthew Stafford went another day watching practice instead of participating in it and seems doubtful to play vs. the Packers on Thanksgiving. Stafford dislocated his left shoulder late vs. the Browns in Week 11; Daunte Culpepper is expected to start in Stafford's place. "It's unlikely that he's going to play, but we'll see," Detroit coach Jim Schwartz said. "It's a deal if it gets better in a couple of days and it's not as painful, he'll be able to get out there."
Analysis: We expect Culpepper to play since the game will be only four days after Stafford got hurt. Consider Culpepper to be no better than a low-end No. 2 Fantasy QB vs. the Packers on Thanksgiving Day while Stafford should at best continue to ride the Fantasy pine while he's hurt in deeper leagues and dynasty/keeper formats.
News: Lions head coach Jim Schwartz said Monday that QB Matthew Stafford was "extremely sore" after sustaining a separated left shoulder on the next-to-last play of their win in Week 11 vs. the Browns, and that he was "unlikely" to play against Green Bay unless the pain subsides. Stafford was injured while throwing a desperation pass into the end zone as time expired. The Browns were called for pass interference, and after a time-out, Stafford came back to throw a game-winning touchdown with no time on the clock. He was 26 of 43 for 422 yards and threw two interceptions. Daunte Culpepper would get the start if Stafford can't go.
Analysis: We expect Culpepper to play since the game will be only four days after Stafford got hurt. Consider Culpepper to be no better than a low-end No. 2 Fantasy QB vs. the Packers on Thanksgiving Day while Stafford should at best continue to ride the pine while he's hurt in deeper leagues and dynasty/keeper formats.
News:Matthew Stafford threw his fifth touchdown pass from 1 yard to Brandon Pettigrew, and Jason Hanson's extra point with no time on the clock gave the Lions a stunning 38-37 win over the Browns on Sunday. Stafford threw three of his TDs in the first half to make it 24-24. He was 26 of 43 for 422 yards and threw two interceptions. The Detroit Free Press reported that Stafford had X-rays on his left shoulder after the game that came back negative but that he would have more tests. Lions coach Jim Schwartz did not know if Stafford would be able to play Week 12 against the Packers. "There’s a lot more that needs to be done,” Schwartz said. "But the first thing you wanted to eliminate was a broken collarbone or one of those things." Stafford was injured when he took a hard hit on the second-to-last play of the game in which he landed on his shoulder.
Analysis: This was easily Stafford's best game of the season, but it might have resulted in an injury that will keep him out of the team's Week 12 game against the Packers on Thanksgiving. Fantasy owners need to take Stafford's Week 11 performance with a grain of salt as he was facing a less than spectacular Browns pass defense. Even if he can play Week 12, he is not a recommended option. If Stafford cannot play, look for Daunte Culpepper to get the start in his place.
News: Detroit QB Matthew Stafford (knee) has been listed as active for the team's Week 11 game against the Browns.
Analysis: Stafford had one of his better games of the season in Week 10 against the Vikings. He could have an even better game Week 11 as the Lions take on a struggling Browns team. However, Stafford can only be considered a low-end Fantasy option for that contest.
News: Detroit QB Matthew Stafford (knee) was limited in practice on Wednesday and Thursday as the team prepares for its Week 11 game against the Browns. He is considered questionable for the contest.
Analysis: Stafford had one of his better games of the season in Week 10 against the Vikings. He could have an even better game Week 11 as the Lions take on a struggling Browns team. However, Stafford can only be considered a low-end Fantasy option for that contest.
News: Lions QB Matthew Stafford was 29 of 51 passing for 224 yards, one touchdown and no interceptions. He also had four carries for 28 yards. This was only Stafford's second game this season without an interception.
Analysis: Stafford finally got on the same page with Calvin Johnson also, who had eight catches for 84 yards. Hopefully he can carry this over to Week 11 against Cleveland, and consider Stafford a low-end sleeper against the Browns.
News: As expected, Lions WR Calvin Johnson (knee) and QB Matthew Stafford (knee) were both named active for Week 10 at Minnesota.
Analysis: Hopefully Johnson is feeling better and can produce as a No. 2 Fantasy WR in Week 10, but don't get your expectations too high. Stafford is only worth a shot as a low-end bye-week replacement option in super-deep leagues.
News: Detroit QB Matthew Stafford was limited in practice all week with a knee injury as the team prepares for its Week 10 game against the Vikings. He is considered probable for the game however.
Analysis: Stafford continues to strugle in his rookie season as he has only five touchdown passes and 12 interceptions. Since returning from the knee injury that kept him out of two games, Stafford has failed to post a passer rating above 46.0. Stafford takes on the Vikings in Minnesota in Week 10 and is obviously not a recommended Fantasy option for that game. In Week 2 against the Vikes, Stafford went 18 for 30 passing for 152 yards with a touchdown and two interceptions.
News: Detroit QB Matthew Stafford was intercepted five times on Sunday in a Week 9 loss to the Seahawks. He completed 22 of his 42 passes in the game for 203 yards, throwing TD passes to both Brandon Pettigrew and Bryant Johnson. Both of Stafford's TD passes came in the first quarter as the Lions built a 17-0 lead in the first. One of his interceptions was taken to the house in the fourth quarter by Cortland Finnegan, which effectively put the game away.
Analysis: Stafford continues to strugle in his rookie season as he has only five touchdown passes and 12 interceptions. Since returning from the knee injury that kept him out of two games, Stafford has failed to post a passer rating above 46.0. Sunday's performance starter off well for Stafford but he completely fell apart after the first quarter. Stafford takes on the Vikings in Minnesota in Week 10 and is obviously not a recommended Fantasy option for that game. In Week 2 against the Vikes, Stafford went 18 for 30 passing for 152 yards with a touchdown and two interceptions.
News: Detroit QB Matthew Stafford will be active for the team's Week 9 game against the Seahawks. He was considered probable for the game with a knee injury.
Analysis: Stafford may have a bright NFL future but it doesn't seem too bright Week 9 at Seattle. The Seahawks aren't great against the pass but the Lions' QB hasn't shown anything in recent weeks that suggests he's worth using in Fantasy play Week 9.
News: Detroit rookie QB Matthew Stafford continues to play through a knee injury and was limited in practice all week as the Lions prepare to play the Seahawks in Seattle in Week 9. Stafford arguably had the worst game of his NFL career with the injury last week as he went 14 of 33 for 168 yards and an interception. He is considered probable for Week 9.
Analysis: Stafford may have a bright NFL future but it doesn't seem too bright Week 9 at Seattle. The Seahawks aren't great against the pass but the Lions' QB hasn't shown anything in recent weeks that suggests he's worth using in Fantasy play Week 9, healthy or not.
News: Detroit QB Matthew Stafford was able to play through a knee injury in Week 8 against the Rams but didn't do too much. He went 14 for 33 passing the ball for a total of 168 yards and an interception. It was the first game he had played since Week 4 at Chicago. He also had one rushing attempt for 4 yards in the game.
Analysis: This was arguably Stafford's worst game of his young NFL career, failing to throw a touchdown and racking up only 168 yards. He had a paltry passer rating of 46 in the game, his lowest since opening day at New Orleans. Stafford likely has a bright future in the NFL, but right now he is just a low-end Fantasy QB. The Lions play at Seattle in Week 9 against a mediocre Seahawks pass defense.
News: The Detroit Free Press reports that Lions QB Matthew Stafford will be active and starting in the team's Week 8 game against the Rams. However, he will not have Calvin Johnson to throw the ball to as he is out with a knee injury. Stafford is also battling a knee injury.
Analysis: Detroit had a bye last Sunday, giving the No. 1 pick in the NFL draft another week to recover. He should be considered a No. 2 Fantasy option Week 8 as he'll be facing the Rams' pass defense.
News: Lions coach Jim Schwartz says it will be game-day decisions on whether quarterback Matthew Stafford and wide receiver Calvin Johnson play against the Rams Week 8. Schwartz said Friday that Stafford and Johnson have made "a lot of progress" in recent weeks after injuring their right knees. They're listed as questionable for Sunday's game when the Lions (1-5) host the Rams (0-7).
Analysis: Stafford has missed two games. Detroit had a bye last Sunday, giving the No. 1 pick in the NFL draft another week to recover. If Stafford is unable to play then it appears like Daunte Culpepper would start against the Rams. Either Stafford or Culpepper would be considered a No. 2 Fantasy QB against the Rams this week.
News: Lions QB Matt Stafford (knee) practiced for the second straight day Thursday while WR Calvin Johnson (knee) practiced for the first time this week. Both were limited, but Johnson more than Stafford. "They're both making good progress," Lions coach Jim Schwartz said of Stafford and Johnson, adding both still have a long way to go heading into Sunday's game against St. Louis.
Analysis: If Stafford is unable to play then it appears like Daunte Culpepper would start against the Rams. Keep an eye on Stafford's progress and see if he's able to practice Friday. That will be a good indicator if he's able to play. Either Stafford or Culpepper would be considered a No. 2 Fantasy QB against the Rams this week.
News: Mlive.com reports that Lions rookie QB Matthew Stafford practiced for the second straight day Wednesday with minimal limitations. He was reportedly sharp working in full pads and only limited himself during the stretching and warm-up period. Stafford is working his way back from a dislocated kneecap that saw him miss two starts. Daunte Culpepper started those games but was hurt in the second one, but he has also been back at practice.
Analysis: The Lions actually have a decent matchup in Week 8 against a bad St. Louis pass defense. Because they're well rested, the Lions could have a decent game against the Rams stats-wise. Whomever starts for Detroit in Week 8 would be no better than a No. 2 Fantasy QB or a desperation spot starter off waivers.
News:Matthew Stafford took part in the early part of Detroit Lions practice Tuesday as he continues to recover from a knee injury. The rookie quarterback has missed Detroit's past two games since getting hurt in a 48-24 loss against Chicago on Oct. 4. He missed more practice time last week before the Lions' bye, but took the first snap in individual drills when the team returned to work Tuesday. Daunte Culpepper, who left Detroit's last game with a hamstring injury, also practiced. Coach Jim Schwartz isn't expected to give injury updates until later in the week.
Analysis: The Lions actually have a decent matchup in Week 8 against a bad St. Louis pass defense. Because they're well rested, the Lions could have a decent game against the Rams stats-wise. Whomever starts for Detroit in Week 8 would be no better than a No. 2 Fantasy QB or a desperation spot starter off waivers.
News: Detroit QB Matthew Stafford (knee) will not be active on Sunday in the team's Week 6 game at Green Bay. Daunte Culpepper will start in his place.
Analysis: With Calvin Johnson also out Week 6, the Lions are likely going to struggle to throw the ball in a hostile environment in Green Bay. Stafford should obviously be benched this week and Culpepper is not a recommended option.
News: Lions rookie QB Matthew Stafford didn't practice again on Friday, a sign that he might not be ready to play on his hurt knee when the team takes the field at Green Bay in Week 6. Stafford was limited on Wednesday but didn't take to the practice field on Thursday. The team has listed him as questionable for Sunday. Daunte Culpepper is expected to start in his place.
Analysis: Don't count on any Lions QB in Week 6 if you can help it. Not only are they not typical stat producers, but the Lions are expected to also be without WR Calvin Johnson who reportedly has a sprained knee. Neither Stafford nor Culpepper are decent Fantasy options for Week 6.
News: Lions QB Matt Stafford didn't practice Thursday after being limited Wednesday. "I'm going to let our injury report handle where we are with our quarterback," coach Jim Schwartz said. Stafford is expected to be a game-time decision for Sunday's game at Green Bay.
Analysis: Keep an eye on Stafford and see what develops heading into Sunday's game against the Packers. If he doesn't start, Daunte Culpepper would get the start for the second game in a row. Neither Culpepper or Stafford are worth starting in any Fantasy league in Week 6.
News: Lions QB Matthew Stafford was back at practice on Wednesday and splitting reps with Daunte Culpepper in the first-team offense. He had missed the team's Week 5 game vs. Pittsburgh with an injury involving his kneecap, believed to be a dislocation. He threw and jogged lightly throughout the practice. Head coach Jim Schwartz would not commit to Stafford starting against the Packers in Week 6. "I think the decision is how well he can move when it comes to Sunday and the ability to do some work during the week," Schwartz told the Detroit Free Press. "Last week, we had a situation where he wasn't doing anything during the week and would have been limited on Sunday, so therefore it was an easy decision. I don't want to speculate on what may happen this week, but you could have two different scenarios. You could have a scenario where he doesn't get any work and then Sunday he can move around great and he's fine. You have another scenario where maybe he gets work this week and is a little bit limited. I don't think it necessarily has to be 100 percent, but he has to be able to move, has to be able to escape trouble and be able to protect himself."
Analysis: It's beginning to look like Stafford has a chance to be under center against the Packers in Week 6 even with Schwartz being non-commital. It's also worth noting that WR Calvin Johnson is dealing with a right knee injury that might keep him out of the upcoming game, and would thus impact Stafford's stats. While that might be good for the Lions, the reality is that he's no better than a No. 2 Fantasy QB at this point, and the same can be said for Culpepper if he gets the start. We'll keep you posted on Stafford's status throughout the week.
News: Detroit QB Matthew Stafford did not play against Pittsburgh after hurting his right knee the previous week and coach Jim Schwartz would not speculate on his status for Sunday's game at Green Bay. If Stafford is healthy, Schwartz said he is the clear-cut starter over Daunte Culpepper. Schwartz insisted he would not consider the upcoming bye when deciding whether Stafford would play the Packers. "We'll see where he is and see how he's trending," Schwartz said. "If he's trending up and he's improving and we can get him snaps, then we have a good chance to get him on the field. If not, then we won't. That has nothing to do with an eye toward the bye week and we can get him an extra week of rest or anything else. Our objective is to win this game. We have to win this game."
Analysis: Stafford is not even close to a sure thing to play Week 6 against the Packers yet. The Lions won't know until much later in the week. This news simply states that if Stafford is healthy enough to play, he'll start and Culpepper will be the backup. Against Green Bay, that would still keep Stafford as nothing more than a bye-week replacement option.
News: Lions QB Matthew Stafford (knee) is inactive for Week 5 against Pittsburgh. He was listed as questionable, but was not expected to play. Daunte Culpepper will start in his place.
Analysis: This news was anticipated and Fantasy owners should not have been relying upon Stafford in their plans for Week 5. Monitor his status leading up to Week 5 at Green Bay.
News: NFL Network reports that Daunte Culpepper will start Week 5 vs. the Steelers in place of Matthew Stafford, who will miss the game with a kneecap injury.
Analysis: This was expected ever since Stafford wasn't a participant in practice this week. It makes sense not to risk further injury to the No. 1 overall pick's knee against a very aggressive defense. Stafford and Culpepper both shouldn't be bothered with in Fantasy play this week because of the tough matchup.
News: After missing two days of practice, Lions rookie QB Matthew Stafford was limited in practice as he works his way back from a dislocated kneecap suffered last week at Chicago. QB Daunte Culpepper took all the first-team reps in practice. The Lions have not indicated the severity of the injury and head coach Jim Schwartz won't say if he expects Stafford or Culpepper to start. "It doesn't matter," Lions center Dominic Raiola said on who gets the start at quarterback. "(Culpepper) has prepared the same every week. There really is no drop-off (between Culpepper and Stafford). He's handled it like a professional."
Analysis: We expect Culpepper to get the start because he's healthier than Stafford, plus the Lions might not want to risk putting their No. 1 overall pick on the field against a very good, very aggressive Steelers defense -- especially with a bad knee. Whomever starts for the Lions is no better than a low-end No. 2 Fantasy QB for Week 5.
News:Matthew Stafford and the Detroit Lions are being coy about the quarterback's injured right knee and his status. Is the kneecap dislocated? "Really not sure," Stafford said Thursday after missing a second straight practice. Will you play Sunday against the Steelers? "I don't know," he said. "We'll see." Detroit's injury report listed Stafford as one of its players who did not practice Thursday because of a knee injury. Stafford had his right knee twisted on a sack in Sunday's loss at Chicago. "Obviously any time you tweak something, it's scary," he said. Stafford, the No. 1 pick in the NFL draft, said he did get good news from tests because there was no structural damage and surgery wasn't deemed necessary. The Lions, though, hadn't cleared him to run four days after he was injured. "They're just trying to get the swelling out," Stafford said. Daunte Culpepper would start in Stafford's place if he can't play.
Analysis: Keep an eye on what happens with Stafford heading into Sunday's game against the Steelers. If healthy, he would be considered a low-end No. 2 Fantasy option. Culpepper would also be considered a low-end No. 2 option if he starts in place of Stafford since the Steelers defense should be able to limit the Lions' passing attack.
News:Matthew Stafford was held out of practice Wednesday by the Lions because of his injured right knee. The Lions chose to not say anything more than that. Detroit coach Jim Schwartz replied, "We'll see on Sunday," when told the Steelers said they expected to face Stafford. Even if Stafford can't practice again on Thursday, Schwartz said that won't necessarily rule him out. Daunte Culpepper took snaps with the first-string offense while Stafford watched.
Analysis: The bottom line here is that neither Lions QB should be trusted by Fantasy owners in Week 5 so long as they can help it. The Steelers should do a good job limiting the Lions' passer whether it's Stafford or Culpepper. Keep both benched, if not on the waiver wire, in all leagues.
News: Lions coach Jim Schwartz says Matthew Stafford is day to day with a knee injury. Schwartz refused to say Monday whether Stafford's right kneecap was dislocated, adding "we'll know more," on Wednesday. Stafford, the No. 1 pick in the NFL draft, had the knee twisted on a sack in Sunday's 48-24 loss against the Chicago Bears. Daunte Culpepper replaced Stafford on the Detroit's next possession, and Stafford got the knee wrapped on the sideline.
Analysis: Detroit hosts the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 5, so it's not like he's got a good matchup to come back to. We wouldn't be surprised if the Lions held their prized rookie out of this game in an attempt to give him time to heal while missing a tough opponent. Whomever starts for the Lions is no better than a low-end No. 2 Fantasy QB for Week 5. We'll keep you posted.
News: Lions rookie QB Matthew Stafford had his right knee wrapped after he twisted it during the fourth quarter of Sunday's game against the Chicago Bears. He left the game after he was sacked for an 11-yard loss by Adewale Ogunleye. Daunte Culpepper replaced Stafford, and Stafford got the knee wrapped on the sideline. He will undergo more tests in Detroit. "If I was feeling a little bit better they would've let me back in," said Stafford. Coach Jim Schwartz disagreed and said Stafford was taken out because he was hurt. "Obviously we'll have to do a lot of tests and those kind of things," Schwartz said. "He wasn't able to really get it warmed back up again, and we didn't want to put him back in the game." Asked if he thought he could play next Sunday against Pittsburgh, Stafford said: "I don't know. We'll see."
Analysis: Stafford finished the game 24 of 36 passing for 296 yards, one touchdown and one interception. He also had two carries for 20 yards and lost a fumble. Culpepper came on and was 6 of 11 passing for 54 yards. The Lions play host to Pittsburgh in Week 5, so keep an eye on what happens with Stafford and Culpepper. Neither would be worth starting against the Steelers.
News: After throwing five interceptions and one touchdown in the first two games, Lions QB Matthew Stafford delivered his best performance against the Redskins. He threw for 241 yards with a TD and did not get picked off. "I feel like I have played pretty well," he said. "Obviously, I made some mistakes here and there that have cost us, but this last game I felt really comfortable and feel like we are moving in the right direction."
Analysis: This week, Stafford will face the Bears in Chicago. The Bears are No. 12 in pass defense, and Stafford could struggle again on the road. Consider Stafford a low-end No. 2 Fantasy option this week.
News: Finally, the Detroit Lions are winners. With rookie Matthew Stafford leading the way, Detroit ended a 19-game losing streak with a 19-14 victory over the Washington Redskins on Sunday. Stafford threw a 21-yard touchdown pass to Bryant Johnson in the first quarter and Detroit added a fourth-quarter score after a pass interference penalty. "We've still got a long way to go, but we've got a quarterback, and that's a big piece of the puzzle," said Lions vice chairman Bill Ford, whose father owns the team. Stafford finished 21 of 36 for 241 yards and the TD pass. He also rushed twice for 23 yards. He did not turn the ball over.
Analysis: Stafford has faced three varying defenses and been fairly consistent. He threw for 205 yards and three picks in his first start against New Orleans, bettered that with a touchdown but two picks in Week 2 against Minnesota and did not turn the ball over in Week 3 with his best passing total. The Lions, however, face their toughest defensive test in Week 4 at Chicago. Stafford has done well as the Lions' QB but we can't recommend you start him in Week 4.
News: The Detroit Lions knew they would have to live with mistakes when they decided to start rookie quarterback Matthew Stafford. Well, they're living with them. Stafford has thrown five interceptions - tying Carolina's Jake Delhomme for the most in the league - and only one touchdown in two games for the winless Lions. The Lions decided to let the No. 1 pick in the draft learn on the field, instead of putting him on the sideline to watch veteran Daunte Culpepper play in his 11th season. It hasn't worked out so far, but coach Jim Schwartz insists he's happy with Stafford. "He's our quarterback," Schwartz said Monday. "We're pleased with him. He's going to be a very good quarterback in this league and we're going to win with him."
Analysis: Stafford is best owned in long-term Fantasy keeper leagues. He is not a recommended start heading into Week 3 against the Redskins. It is great news the Lions are sticking with him but until he starts producing you probably don't want to use him in Fantasy play.
News: Minnesota shut down rookie quarterback Matthew Stafford during a 27-13 win over Detroit after he and the Lions had some success early in Week 2. Chad Greenway had two interceptions and recovered a fumble for the Vikings, who held Detroit scoreless from the 5:40 mark of the second quarter -- when Stafford connected with Calvin Johnson -- until Jason Hanson kicked a meaningless field goal with 3:21 left in the game. Stafford was 18 of 30 for 152 yards with a TD (8-yard pass to Johnson) and two interceptions. He also had seven rushing yards.
Analysis: Stafford, the No. 1 pick in the draft, started for the second straight week and seems like he's going to learn the hard way on the field with the lowly Lions. Even Eli Manning struggled as a rookie QB for the Giants, so Stafford just might have to take his lumps as a rookie QB. Stafford is best owned in long-term Fantasy keeper leagues. He is not a recommended start heading into Week 3 against the Redskins.
News: Lions rookie Matthew Stafford had a rough NFL debut in Week 1 at the New Orleans Saints. He completed just 16 of 37 passes for 205 yards and was intercepted three times without throwing a touchdown pass. He did score his first NFL touchdown on a 1-yard QB sneak in the third quarter.
Analysis: Stafford figures to be in for a tough year as a rookie and will be far too erratic to rely upon in any league. He does have the advantage of having one of the better receivers in football with Calvin Johnson, but we don't foresee many weeks where he will be a recommended start this season. He is best saved for keeper formats. The Lions will face a very tough Vikings defense in Week 2.
News:Matthew Stafford has won the Detroit Lions' starting quarterback job. Lions coach Jim Schwartz told his team Monday morning that the No. 1 overall pick in April's draft would start Sunday's game against the Saints. Stafford had been battling veteran Daunte Culpepper for the position, and Schwartz stressed it had been a case of Stafford winning the job instead of Culpepper losing it.
Analysis: We thought the Lions might have gone with Culpepper first so that Stafford wouldn't have so much thrust upon him to start, but we've felt that he's had the better arm all along, so it's not a huge surprise. Expect a bumpy start for Stafford against the Saints in Week 1, so keep him limited to the bench in leagues this season.
News: The Detroit Free-Press reports that Lions head coach Jim Schwartz won't name his starting quarterback for Week 1 at New Orleans. He could do it by Friday, and an indication of whom it could be might be determined by who gets the majority of first-team reps in practice this week. Veteran Daunte Culpepper and No. 1 overall pick Matthew Stafford have battled for the top spot all summer long.
Analysis: Culpepper is the safer choice in our opinion even though Stafford has the better arm. The reality is that whomever is named the starting quarterback won't be worth using as anything more than a No. 2 Fantasy QB for much of this season, including against the Saints.
News: Lions rookie quarterback Matthew Stafford closed the preseason much like he opened it: by showing plenty of promise but little finish. Stafford, the No. 1 draft pick out of Georgia who was making his second start this preseason, finished 5 of 9 for 81 yards with two drive-killing turnovers -- a fumble and an interception. Stafford got off to a sharp start, hitting Calvin Johnson for 37- and 19-yard completions on the opening drive. He also hit Johnson on the fly in the end zone for what would have been a 34-yard touchdown, but the play was nullified by offsetting penalties. Three plays later, Stafford lost a fumble after being stripped by defensive end Aaron Maybin. The next drive ended when Stafford was intercepted by cornerback Reggie Corner when his receiver fell down.
Analysis: So much for Stafford strengthening his case to be the Lions starter ahead of veteran Daunte Culpepper, who was held out of after cutting his foot last weekend. In four appearances this preseason, Stafford went 30 of 55 for 389 yards and a touchdown, with four interceptions and a lost fumble. And his performance Thursday was a carry-over from an 18-17 victory against Indianapolis last weekend. That's when he engineered a 14-play, 79-yard drive that ended with an interception. The Lions have a very important choice to make: Do they let Stafford start from Day 1 and take his lumps? Or do they baby him and let him work more in practice before he plays in a game? If Stafford does win the starting job, we probably wouldn't recommend starting him right off the bat in Fantasy. He remains a nice long-term Fantasy keeper, but is merely a Fantasy reserve to begin the season.
News: The Detroit News reports that Daunte Culpepper suffered a minor cut on his toe Saturday at his home. The cut required eight stitches and is not considered serious, but his status for the team's final preseason game Thursday is in doubt. Culpepper is in competition with rookie Matthew Stafford for the starting job at quarterback.
Analysis: This could be a quirky way to open the door for Stafford. Even if Culpepper wins the job, chances are we'll see Stafford sooner than later. But with the Lions making nothing official at this time, treat both guys as low-end No. 2 options simply because they won't be big stat producers. The only silver lining for whomever starts is that he will throw to Calvin Johnson, which is a nice bonus. Stafford warrants a late-round pick in deeper seasonal leagues (he's an obvious first-round pick in rookie-only drafts) while owners shouldn't put much faith in Culpepper -- he's a late-round pick at best even if he's named the starter.
News: In the Lions' third preseason game vs. the Colts, QB Daunte Culpepper started and was good but not great, completing 7 of 12 passes for 67 yards with a touchdown dart to Bryant Johnson. Many of his attempts on the first drive were in the short area as he attempted to play it safe. He played in only the Lions' first two offensive series. Rookie Matthew Stafford was improved, completing 13 of 19 passes for 160 yards, but he also threw an interception (head coach Jim Schwartz said it was the receiver's fault for not breaking up the play). Stafford played in four offensive series. Through the preseason, Culpepper has completed 22 of 34 passes (64.7 comp. pct.) for 194 yards (5.7 yards per attempt) with one touchdown while Stafford has amassed 308 yards on 25 of 46 passing (54.3 comp. pct.; 6.69 yards per attempt) with one touchdown and three interceptions.
Analysis: The Lions might put off naming a starting quarterback until after their fourth preseason game as neither passer has done enough to earn the job. Culpepper has done a better job of not turning the ball over and probably gives the Lions the best chance to win for now. That doesn't mean he'll be under center all year -- chances are we'll see Stafford sooner than later. But with the Lions making nothing official at this time, treat both guys as low-end No. 2 options simply because they won't be big stat producers. The only silver lining for whomever starts is that he will throw to Calvin Johnson, which is a nice bonus. Stafford warrants a late-round pick in deeper seasonal leagues (he's an obvious first-round pick in rookie-only drafts) while owners shouldn't put much faith in Culpepper -- he's a late-round pick at best even if he's named the starter. We'll keep you posted on this situation.
News: Lions coach Jim Schwartz says Daunte Culpepper will start Detroit's third preseason game and insists the quarterback competition with Matthew Stafford is still open. Schwartz waited until Friday, a day before Detroit hosts the Indianapolis Colts, to announce his decision.
Analysis: Schwartz says not to read much into Culpepper starting, saying he could wait until just before the season opener to pick a starter. The first-year coach says Culpepper will play into the second quarter when Stafford, the No. 1 pick in the NFL draft, will then play into the third. Whomever is the Lions starting QB will be at least a low-end No. 2 option simply because that player would throw to Calvin Johnson. Stafford warrants a late-round pick in deeper seasonal leagues (he's an obvious first-round pick in rookie-only drafts) while owners shouldn't put much faith in Culpepper until he's named the starter.
News: Lions QB Matthew Stafford completed 5 of 13 passes for 34 yards with an interception on his first attempt of the game as he started Saturday night's preseason contest against the Browns. He was replaced by Daunte Culpepper late in the second quarter.
Analysis: Stafford certainly didn't look like the No. 1 overall pick on Saturday night as he made a couple of overthrows and completed just 38 percent of his passes. While this performance doesn't hand Culpepper the starting job in Detroit by any means, Stafford will probably have to show some clear improvement in his next outing if he wants to remain in the race. Stafford warrants a late-round pick in deeper seasonal leagues (he's an obvious first-round pick in rookie-only drafts).
News: Lions coach Jim Schwartz fueled the Lions starting QB debate by naming rookie Matt Stafford the starter against Cleveland on Saturday. The move was expected and will keep people guessing as to who will start the season opener. Daunte Culpepper started the preseason opener against the Falcons.
Analysis: Stafford was 7 of 14 passing for 114 yards, one touchdown and one interception against the Falcons, while Culpepper was 5 of 6 passing for 41 yards. We'll see how each does in the second preseason game and what happens throughout the rest of training camp. Stafford's progression is worth monitoring this offseason, as is Culpepper's return to form, since whomever is the Lions starting QB will be at least a low-end No. 2 option simply because that player would throw to Calvin Johnson. Stafford warrants a late-round pick in deeper seasonal leagues (he's an obvious first-round pick in rookie-only drafts) while owners shouldn't put much faith in Culpepper until he's named the starter.
News:Daunte Culpepper will start at QB in Detroit's preseason opener against Atlanta on Saturday. Lions coach Jim Schwartz said Friday that top draft pick Matthew Stafford will enter the game at some point in the second quarter of Saturday's game in Detroit. The 32-year-old Culpepper wants to start the season for the Lions, though he knows Stafford is the team's future. The former Georgia star says he has already learned a lot from his veteran teammate. Detroit is coming off the NFL's first 0-16 season.
Analysis: This decision is likely because Culpepper is the veteran and has played better so far in training camp. We'll see how each does in the preseason opener and what happens throughout the rest of training camp. Stafford's progression is worth monitoring this offseason, as is Culpepper's return to form, since whomever is the Lions starting QB will be at least a low-end No. 2 option simply because that player would throw to Calvin Johnson. Stafford warrants a late-round pick in deeper seasonal leagues (he's an obvious first-round pick in rookie-only drafts) while owners shouldn't put much faith in Culpepper until he's named the starter.
News: The Lions might be a few weeks away from naming a starting quarterback, but offensive coordinator Scott Linehan continues to praise his rookie. Stafford is in a battle with Daunte Culpepper for the top gig and the two are rotating series in practice. "I don't feel like I'm coaching or talking to a rookie when we work with him," Linehan said Tuesday. "I know you hear of that - and it's not just talking, saying that's how it is because he was the No. 1 pick and all that stuff. He has a very natural feel for the game and understands concepts, he can translate things he's done before to what he is doing now without a lot of repetition. He can go right to it and make that decision and make that transformation. (He's) pretty impressive that way."
Analysis: Stafford has a strong arm and has reportedly progressed in every area of his game since getting drafted. Playing his home game indoors, and playing with big targets like WR Calvin Johnson and rookie TE Brandon Pettigrew make him a potential surprise in 2009. Assuming he beats out Daunte Culpepper for the starting job, and he might based on his contract alone, Stafford could rate as a low-end No. 2 Fantasy QB since whoever is at the controls of the Lions offense has the luxury of throwing deep to Johnson & Co. He's worth a late-round pick in deeper seasonal leagues, a middle- to late-round pick in dynasty/keeper formats and an early-round pick in rookie-only drafts.
News:Daunte Culpepper knows he's in only a short-term battle with Matthew Stafford for the Detroit Lions' starting quarterback job but insists he isn't worried about anything beyond this season. "I'm not thinking about anything beyond 2009 right now," Culpepper, who joined the Lions midway through the first 0-16 season in NFL history, said Saturday after the team's first training-camp practice. "I'm focused on helping this team win some games." Unlike last year, Culpepper spent the entire offseason as part of Detroit's program. "That's a huge benefit when it comes to competition," he said. "Last year, it was like I was running a race where everyone had a head start. This year, I'm starting even." While Culpepper unquestionably wants to be Detroit's starter, that doesn't mean he intends to be the competition with Stafford to be unfriendly. "We're going to push each other to get better," he said. Stafford said he feels the same way and that he has already learned a lot from his veteran teammate.
Analysis: Lions head coach Jim Schwartz reiterated that the team won't name a starting quarterback for a while. We fully expect Stafford to eventually be the starter in Detroit, but not as soon as other rookie quarterbacks around the league. Stafford's progression is worth monitoring this offseason, as is Culpepper's return to form, since whomever is the Lions starting QB will be at least a low-end No. 2 option simply because that player would throw over and over to Johnson. Stafford warrants a late-round pick in deeper seasonal leagues (he's an obvious first-round pick in rookie-only drafts) while owners shouldn't put much faith in Culpepper until he's named the starter.
News: At the NFL Rookie Symposium in Palm Beach Gardens, Fla., Lions rookie QB Matthew Stafford told CBSSports.com in an exclusive interview that his new team's offense is familiar to him, and that's helped him get acclimated to his new playbook. "Coming from Georgia, we do a lot of the same concepts with [offensive coordinator Scott] Linehan that we did there," Stafford said. "It's obviously called something completely different and you may look for a different look for certain coverages, but a lot of the concepts are similar, so it's been a pretty easy transition for me so far."
Analysis: Obviously, this is good news since Stafford will try to follow in the footsteps of Matt Ryan and Joe Flacco and start 16 games in his rookie season. He's got a cannon for an arm and has reportedly progressed in every other area of his game since getting drafted. Playing his home game indoors, and playing with big targets like WR Calvin Johnson and rookie TE Brandon Pettigrew make him a potential surprise in 2009. Assuming he beats out Daunte Culpepper for the starting job, and he might based on his contract alone, Stafford could rate as a low-end No. 2 Fantasy QB since whoever is at the controls of the Lions offense has the luxury of throwing deep to Johnson & Co. He's worth a late-round pick in deeper seasonal leagues, a middle- to late-round pick in dynasty/keeper formats and an early-round pick in rookie-only drafts.
News: Lions head coach Jim Schwartz had the opportunity to sum up Matthew Stafford's offseason after his final minicamp practice. Naturally, he was glowing. "He's been consistent from the very first time he took the field. I mean, had confidence in the huddle, he obviously has confidence in his arm," Schwartz said. "I think the one thing that you do see is his ability and confidence to try to fit balls into tight quarters. That's sort of been with him since. He'd probably have been a little more comfortable with his teammates. He's gotten to know these guys; the rookies have been here for about five weeks. ... They're over here probably six hours a day in the locker room, in the weight room, in the meeting rooms, so when you see them walk off the practice field, when you see them when a special teams period's going on, there's much more give-and-take - whatever you want to call it - in between the guys. They've developed relationships."
Analysis: Schwartz has reiterated that the team won't name a starting quarterback for a while. We fully expect Stafford to eventually be the starter in Detroit, but not as soon as other rookie quarterbacks around the league. Stafford's progression is worth monitoring this preseason, as is Culpepper's return to form, since whomever is the Lions starting QB will be at least a low-end No. 2 option simply because that player would throw over and over to Calvin Johnson. Stafford warrants a late-round pick in deeper seasonal leagues (he's an obvious first-round pick in rookie-only drafts) while owners shouldn't put much faith in Culpepper until he's named the starter.
News: The Detroit Free Press reports that Lions WR Calvin Johnson was impressed with the arms of veteran passer Daunte Culpepper and rookie Matthew Stafford throughout their offseason work, including at the most recent minicamp. Stafford has reportedly stepped up his efforts to know the playbook and be ready for the chance to start, but Culpepper has also stepped up, claiming he's at 100 percent health for the first time since 2004. "I'm seeing him make throws that he made back when he was at Minnesota," Johnson said of Culpepper. The stud wideout then turned his attention to Stafford's arm, saying: "There's been some throws he's made that we were like, 'Ain't no way he's getting that ball there,' but he's got the ball there. He got it in tight. He can throw it in tight spaces. That's a good attribute."
Analysis: Lions head coach Jim Schwartz reiterated that the team won't name a starting quarterback for a while. We fully expect Stafford to eventually be the starter in Detroit, but not as soon as other rookie quarterbacks around the league. Stafford's progression is worth monitoring this offseason, as is Culpepper's return to form, since whomever is the Lions starting QB will be at least a low-end No. 2 option simply because that player would throw over and over to Johnson. Stafford warrants a late-round pick in deeper seasonal leagues (he's an obvious first-round pick in rookie-only drafts) while owners shouldn't put much faith in Culpepper until he's named the starter.
News: Lions RB Kevin Smith said on his personal web site that he's impressed with rookie QB Matthew Stafford. According to Smith, "One thing that really has surprised me so far in OTAs is how good Matthew Stafford has looked. ... So far, so good for Matt. He's very poised for a young quarterback and very smart from what I can see. He reads coverage and can deliver the ball. ... He's really impressed me now that I've had a chance to see him up close." Smith also praised Stafford's competition, Daunte Culpepper. "Daunte is a great teammate and a great professional. I know he's not going into practice worrying about whether he'll be starting or not. He goes into practice throwing the ball with strength and accuracy because he wants to be a better QB and help this team win more games. All of the quarterbacks here are great professionals willing to help each other."
Analysis: It sounds like Stafford will likely win the job as the starter for the Lions, but expect Culpepper to play also. This will be a situation that likely settles itself in training camp, but whoever is the starter should be considered a No. 2 Fantasy QB in seasonal leagues. We like Stafford as a first-round pick in rookie-only formats, and he should be a high draft pick in keeper leagues as well. The one benefit for whoever is the starter in Detroit is throwing the ball to WR Calvin Johnson.
News:Sports Illustrated reports that the Lions are inching closer to giving rookie QB Matthew Stafford the starting job sooner rather than later. Initially it was believed that Daunte Culpepper would start the first series of games for the Lions until they were either out of playoff contention or until Stafford was deemed ready. But Stafford's hard work since being drafted No. 1 overall has accelerated the process, and he could follow in the footsteps of 2008 rookies Matt Ryan and Joe Flacco by earning a Week 1 start. "We've got two criteria for when Matthew will play," said head coach Jim Schwartz. "One is he'll play when he's ready. The second is when he's the best quarterback for us. But so far, whatever the opposite of buyers' remorse is, that's what we have. We knew he had the terrific NFL arm. But we've found out his release is just textbook classic."
Analysis: Schwartz also referred to the Lions' June minicamp as an "arms race" between Stafford and Culpepper. We fully expect Stafford to eventually be the starting quarterback in Detroit, but not as soon as other rookie quarterbacks around the league. Stafford's progression is worth monitoring this offseason since whomever is the Lions starting QB will be at least a low-end No. 2 option simply because that player would throw over and over to Calvin Johnson. Stafford even warrants a late-round pick in deeper seasonal leagues (he's an obvious first-round pick in rookie-only drafts). We'll keep you posted.
News: Matt Stafford has gotten the hazing this week that any No. 1 pick would expect from his veteran teammates. The Lions QB also has gotten something more important: their respect. "I've never been on a team where we drafted a quarterback in the first round, much less with the first pick," defensive end Eric Hicks said. "So far, he's more than lived up to the hype - he's been very impressive." Stafford said he hasn't had any problems with the two veterans who he is battling for the starting spot, Daunte Culpepper and Drew Stanton. "Daunte has been great. He's been doing this for a long time and I'm learning a lot from him, and Drew's been helping me as well," Stafford said. "It helps that we did a lot of the same things at Georgia, so as long as I understand the play, I usually get the underlying concepts." Stafford's arrival has caused a dramatic improvement in Culpepper's and Stanton's play, a development that doesn't surprise Lions coach Jim Schwartz. Schwartz juggled the quarterback rotation throughout the three-day camp, but said it wasn't a move designed for those players.
Analysis: Stafford will compete with Culpepper to be the starter with Stanton likely the No. 3 QB. We expect Stafford to win the job, but whoever is the starter for the Lions will be a No. 2 Fantasy option. Stafford, however, remains a first-round pick in rookie-only drafts and will have great value in keeper leagues.
News: The Detroit Free Press reports when QB Matthew Stafford rejoins the Lions on Monday, along with the rest of the team's rookies, he can expect a healthy workload. "We only have two quarterbacks right now and these guys have had all the reps that they can handle," coach Jim Schwartz said Thursday of Daunte Culpepper and Drew Stanton. "We'll need a third quarterback and, yeah, we'll get him as many reps." Schwartz said he expects the workload to be distributed evenly among the three quarterbacks for the most part. "Situations like this, when we have two 2-minutes (drills) we'll have to make decisions," he said. "But it'll probably be fairly even through the scrimmages."
Analysis: Stafford will compete with Culpepper for the starting job, and we expect Stafford to make the majority of starts this season. We'll see what happens during training camp, but go into the year with Stafford as a low-end No. 2 option in seasonal leagues. He's worth a much higher pick in keeper formats, and remember he's throwing to one of the top targets in the NFL in Calvin Johnson, which gives Stafford immediate value.
News: The Detroit Free Press reports that while Lions head coach Jim Schwartz wouldn't list his QB depth chart after a three-day minicamp, GM Martin Mayhew said that Daunte Culpepper would be the team's starter if they had to play right now, not No. 1 overall pick Matthew Stafford. "He's a pro, and I trust Daunte," Mayhew said. "He's got a lot of ability, and I anticipate that if we had something to do today, Daunte would be the guy today. But we've got a lot of time to work, and we'll see how it goes."
Analysis: This is typical lip service from a general manager in early May. Stafford reportedly had some shaky moments but did throw the ball well and with some good accuracy. We fully expect Stafford to eventually be the starting quarterback in Detroit, but the club's offense isn't as fully developed as those in New York and Tampa Bay, where rookie passers might jump in from Week 1 on. Stafford's progression is worth monitoring this offseason since whomever is the Lions starting QB will be at least a low-end No. 2 option simply because that player would throw over and over to Calvin Johnson.
News: The Lions made it official: Georgia QB Matthew Stafford is the new face of their franchise after the club picked him No. 1 overall in the 2009 NFL Draft and signed him to a six-year deal worth as much as $78 million with nearly $42 million guaranteed, the most ever for an NFL player. Stafford amassed 7,731 yards in 34 starts with 51 touchdowns and 33 interceptions (just 10 each in 2008 and 2007) at Georgia. The Lions are keeping the door open on having Stafford as their starter in 2009. "The best player is going to play and I think that we need to keep an eye toward that with Matthew," head coach Jim Schwartz said. "Is he the best player, and is he ready? Both of those questions have to be answered. We're at a really good position right now with a rejuvenated Daunte Culpepper. ... We have a comfort level with what Daunte has done up to this point and we have a good young quarterback and we don't have to force our hand. We don't have to make a decision that's not based on merit."
Analysis: Stafford is a cannon-armed passer who should eventually develop into a nice NFL quarterback. There are some concerns about Stafford's height, decision-making skills and short-area passing game, but he is nevertheless considered a top quarterback prospect whose big arm should translate well playing indoors at Ford Field eight games a year. Will it happen in 2009? It's too soon to tell, but save for an awesome preseason by Stafford, it seems like a safe bet to consider Culpepper the favorite to start at first in 2009. That means that Stafford won't see much of the field until the club either falls out of playoff contention or until Culpepper misses significant playing time. Stafford will eventually have some opportunities to post big numbers throwing deep to the likes of Calvin Johnson and whomever else makes up the Lions' offense when he's under center. Thus, Stafford shouldn't be drafted in seasonal formats, but is a middle- to late-round pick in dynasty/keeper formats and a first-round pick in rookie-only drafts this summer.
News: NFL.com reports that the Lions will make Georgia QB Matthew Stafford their pick at the top of the 2009 NFL Draft on Saturday. It was previously reported that the two sides were close on contract terms, expected to be well over $30 million guaranteed. "We've had some good talks, some good visits and sessions, and I would feel very comfortable there and believe I could become a part of growing something special," Stafford said of Detroit on Friday. "I wouldn't feel lost there at all."
Analysis: Stafford is a cannon-armed passer who should eventually develop into a nice NFL quarterback. There are some concerns about Stafford's height, decision making skills and short-area passing game, but he is nevertheless considered to be a top quarterback prospect. In Detroit, Stafford would likely see limited playing time as a rookie (Daunte Culpepper could start), making him virtually meaningless for Fantasy play in 2009, but the sky would be the limit for him working with an all-around receiving machine like Calvin Johnson for several years. Expect to see Stafford as an undraftable choice in seasonal formats, but a middle- to late-round pick in dynasty/keeper formats and a first-round pick in rookie-only drafts.
News:Sports Illustrated's Peter King reports that contract parameters between the Lions and Georgia QB Matthew Stafford will be agreed upon before the start of the 2009 draft. Stafford is one of a handful of draft prospects being considered by the Lions for the top overall pick in the 2009 NFL Draft. "You can take it to the bank: Stafford's going to be a Detroit Lion," King wrote.
Analysis: Stafford is a cannon-armed quarterback who should eventually develop into a nice NFL quarterback. There are some concerns about Stafford's height, decision making skills and short-area passing game, but he is considered to be a top quarterback prospect. In Detroit, Stafford would likely see limited playing time as a rookie, making him nearly meaningless for Fantasy play in 2009, but the sky would be the limit for him working with an all-around machine like Calvin Johnson for several years. Expect to see Stafford as an undraftable choice in seasonal formats, but a middle- to late-round pick in dynasty/keeper formats and a first-round pick in rookie-only drafts.
News: MLive.com reports that Lions spokesman Bill Keenist has denied that his club has agreed to contract terms with Georgia QB Matthew Stafford, which is what was previously reported by the Oakland Press. Stafford is one of a handful of draft prospects being considered by the Lions for the top overall pick in the 2009 NFL Draft. The Lions have confirmed, however, that whomever they choose to take at No. 1 would ideally be signed to a deal. The Oakland Press reported that the Lions and Stafford agreed to an $80 million deal with half of it guaranteed.
Analysis: Stafford is a cannon-armed quarterback who should eventually develop into a nice NFL quarterback. There are some concerns about Stafford's height, decision making skills and short-area passing game, but he is considered to be a top quarterback prospect. In Detroit, Stafford would likely see limited playing time as a rookie, making him nearly meaningless for Fantasy play in 2009, but the sky would be the limit for him working with an all-around machine like Calvin Johnson for several years. Expect to see Stafford as an undraftable choice in seasonal formats, but a middle- to late-round pick in dynasty/keeper formats and a first-round pick in rookie-only drafts.
