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9 Carson Palmer, QB
Height/Weight: 6-5/235
| Birthdate: 12/27/1979
| Birthplace: Fresno, CA, USA
| Team: Cincinnati Bengals
| College: Southern California
| NFL Experience: 7
| Owned/Started%: 98/33 | Average Draft Position: 71.29
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Latest Updates |
 Palmer refreshed after bye week
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Updated 11/2/2009 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Coming off the bye week, Bengals QB Carson Palmer said he was refreshed and ready to go for Sunday's game vs. the Ravens. "It was a nice little break," Palmer said. "We looked at film, spent time with the family and got recharged. We just have to get ready for two big division opponents right now." | Analysis: The last time Palmer faced the Ravens in Week 5 he was 18 of 31 passing for 271 yards, one touchdown and one interception. Those are safe stats for Palmer, and he should be considered a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 Fantasy QB for this week. |
 Palmer a TD machine in Week 7
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Updated 10/25/2009 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Carson Palmer threw five touchdown passes -- four during Cincinnati's dominant first half -- in a shocking 45-10 victory Sunday that will go down as one of the worst days in Bears history. Palmer finished 20 of 24 for 233 yards, one shy of his career high for touchdown throws. Palmer - playing with a brace on his sprained left (non-throwing) thumb for the second straight week - piled up the points. Palmer threw short touchdown passes to different receivers on the first four drives. Chicago hadn't given up so many first-half points since 2003. | Analysis: Palmer threw six touchdown passes in Cleveland for his career high. Palmer has a touchdown pass in every game since a 12-7 opening loss to the Broncos in Week 1. He has a total of 13 passing TDs on the season and seven interceptions. This has been a bounce back campaign for Palmer who takes on a below average Baltimore pass defense in Week 9, after a bye in Week 8. He threw for 271 passing yards, a touchdown and an interception in Week 5 at Baltimore. |
 Palmer in for poor numbers in Week 7?
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Updated 10/21/2009 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer will face a non-division opponent in Week 7 against Chicago. The Bears rank just 14th in the NFL against the pass, giving up just six touchdown passes in five games with five interceptions. | Analysis: Palmer has thrown multiple touchdown passes just twice this season and has throw an interception in all but one game this year. The matchup against a solid Bears defense in Week 6 does not inspire much confidence. The Bears have done well against some of the top quarterbacks in the league this year. They have only allowed multiple passing touchdowns once, which was last week against Matt Ryan. Consider Palmer a risky play this week and someone to sit depending on your alternatives. |
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Palmer struggles vs. Texans
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Updated 10/18/2009 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Cincinnati QB Carson Palmer was 23 of 35 passing for 259 yards, one touchdown and one interception Sunday against Houston. He also had one carry for 2 yards. Palmer now has an interception in five of six games this year. | Analysis: Palmer was dealing with an injury to his left, non-throwing thumb, but that had little effect on his performance. He continues to struggle in posting a big Fantasy performance, but Palmer should still be considered a low-end No. 1 QB in Week 7 against Chicago. Hopefully he will break out of his funk against the Bears. |
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Palmer (thumb) active as expected
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Updated 10/18/2009 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: As expected, Bengals QB Carson Palmer (thumb) was activated and listed as a starter for Week 6 against Houston. He had been listed as probable on the injury report. | Analysis: This thumb ailment shouldn't impact Palmer's passing at all. What will impact Palmer is Houston's middle-of-the-road pass defense, allowing 222.2 pass yards per game with five passing scores allowed and only two interceptions on the year. If your primary quarterback is on bye in Week 6, consider Palmer a phenomenal replacement. Otherwise, view Palmer as a low-end No. 1/top-end No. 2 Fantasy passer for the upcoming matchup. |
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Thumbs up: Palmer to start vs. Texans
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Updated 10/16/2009 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Bengals quarterback Carson Palmer fully participated in practice all week long and is probable to play vs. the Texans in Week 6. Palmer sprained his thumb in the fourth quarter of a 17-14 win over Baltimore on Sunday. He had to hand off using his right hand only for the rest of the game, forcing him to change how he handled the ball. Palmer said on Wednesday that the thumb was much better - it wasn't taped when he met with reporters - and shouldn't affect him on Sunday against the Houston Texans. | Analysis: This shouldn't impact Palmer's passing at all. What will impact Palmer is Houston's middle-of-the-road pass defense, allowing 222.2 pass yards per game with five passing scores allowed and only two interceptions on the year. If your primary quarterback is on bye in Week 6, consider Palmer a phenomenal replacement. Otherwise, view Palmer as a low-end No. 1/top-end No. 2 Fantasy passer for the upcoming matchup. |
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Thumb a non-issue for Palmer
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Updated 10/14/2009 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Bengals quarterback Carson Palmer wore a glove on his left hand but fully participated in practice, an indication that his sprained thumb won't be a problem. Palmer hurt the thumb in the fourth quarter of a 17-14 win over Baltimore on Sunday. He had to hand off using his right hand only for the rest of the game, forcing him to change how he handled the ball. Palmer said on Wednesday that the thumb was much better - it wasn't taped when he met with reporters - and shouldn't affect him on Sunday against the Houston Texans. | Analysis: This shouldn't impact Palmer's passing at all. What will impact Palmer is Houston's middle-of-the-road pass defense, allowing 222.2 pass yards per game with five passing scores allowed and only two interceptions on the year. If your primary quarterback is on bye in Week 6, consider Palmer a phenomenal replacement. Otherwise, view Palmer as a low-end No. 1/top-end No. 2 Fantasy passer for the upcoming matchup. |
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Palmer winning but mediocre in Fantasy
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Updated 10/14/2009 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer has his team at 4-1 and in first place. That said, his numbers haven't been amazing this season. Palmer heads into Week 6 against Houston with 1,116 yards on 97 of 168 passing with seven touchdowns and six interceptions. The last and only time he faced Houston came back in 2005. He threw for 276 yards in that game with a touchdown. | Analysis: Houston has been fairly decent versus the pass this season and have allowed just over 222 yards per game with five touchdowns and two picks. Palmer hopes to keep the winning streak alive but until he really has a breakout game we are going to be skeptical about the ceiling on his value. He was once a top Fantasy option but right now is mainly a No. 2 Fantasy QB. |
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Palmer leads game-winning drive
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Updated 10/11/2009 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: In a duel for first place in the AFC North, the Bengals found another way to win a close game. Carson Palmer threw a 20-yard touchdown pass to Andre Caldwell with 22 seconds left to cap an 80-yard drive, and the Bengals escaped with a 17-14 victory over the Ravens on Sunday. All five of Cincinnati's games this season have been decided by seven points for fewer. It appeared as if the Bengals (4-1) were destined to come out on the short end of this one until Palmer masterfully directed the final drive -- with the help of three yellow flags. An illegal contact penalty against the Ravens' Chris Carr and an unnecessary roughness call against Ray Lewis preceded the topper, a pass interference penalty against Frank Walker on third and 16 from the Baltimore 30. On the next play, Palmer found Caldwell over the middle for the winning score. Palmer finished the game going 18 for 31 passing for 271 yards. The Caldwell score was Palmer's lone TD pass of the game. He was also interecepted by Ed Reed who took the pick to the house. | Analysis: Palmer said earlier in the week that he was disappointed with his performance so far this season and won't likely be all that pleased with his Week 5 numbers. If he didn't end up with the TD drive at the end of the game, Palmer's numbers would have looked really pedestrian. However, Palmer will have a chance to put up big numbers in Week 6 as the Bengals take on an average Houston pass defense. Think of him as a low-end No. 1 Fantasy option for Week 6. |
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Palmer not pleased with play
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Updated 10/7/2009 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer said Wednesday he isn't playing up to his capabilities. He's completing 57.7 percent of his attempts for six TDs and five INTs. "Not good enough," he said. "Not good enough to win a championship. I can't give myself a letter grade, but I haven't played up to my own expectations." Coach Marvin Lewis had a different take on Palmer's subpar performance against the Browns (23 of 44 for two TDs and an INT while the offense didn't gain a first down for 37 minutes). "I think he's playing better and better each week. His decision-making was as good as it's been this year." | Analysis: Palmer has struggled coming into the season, and it didn't help that he had a sprained ankle during training camp. We expect Palmer to turn things around, but this isn't a good week to count on him against the Ravens. Baltimore has allowed five passing touchdowns but has six interceptions and 10 sacks on the season. Consider Palmer a No. 2 Fantasy QB against the Ravens. |
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Palmer leads Bengals to OT win
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Updated 10/4/2009 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer had a mediocre game Week 4 at Cleveland but ended up leading the team to a 23-20 OT win. Palmer went 23 for 44 in the game through the air, racking up 230 yards. Palmer threw two touchdown passes to Chad Ochocinco and was picked off by Brodney Pool. He also carried the ball three times for 20 yards. | Analysis: Fantasy owners were expecting big things from Palmer Week 4 against a weak Browns pass defense, but he failed to live up to those expectations. Palmer has however been pretty good to open the 2009 season, throwing for six TD passes through four games and adding another on the ground. Palmer remains a No. 1 Fantasy QB most weeks but heads into a tough match-up at Baltimore Week 5. Think of him as a No. 2 Fantasy option Week 5. |
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Palmer to break out Week 4?
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Updated 9/29/2009 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: The Bengals' Carson Palmer has been decent in three weeks this season as he's thrown for 615 yards with 4 touchdowns and 4 interceptions. Consider this, however. Palmer has faced three of the league's best defensive teams in Denver, at Green Bay and against Pittsburgh. Palmer faces the Browns in Cleveland in Week 4. Cleveland is not a good defensive team. Since Palmer missed most of last season, the last time he faced the Browns was twice in 2007. In those two games, Palmer threw for 516 yards with 7 touchdowns and 4 interceptions. | Analysis: Palmer has owned the Browns in the past and this year's version is probably the worst yet. With the toughness of the matchups he's seen leading up to Week 4, Palmer should be absolutely licking his chops in anticipation of facing Cleveland. Go ahead and start him in all leagues as a high-end No. 1 Fantasy option. |
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Palmer held under 200 yards again
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Updated 9/27/2009 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer, who threw for only 185 yards last week but made up for it with three touchdown passes, again had a modest performance against the Steelers in Week 3. He completed 20 of 37 passes for 183 yards, but he threw only one touchdown pass this time -- a four-yarder to Andre Caldwell in the fourth quarter. | Analysis: Palmer was a disaster last season because of an elbow injury, and he really hasn't proven himself this season. He had a tough matchup against the Steelers on Sunday, so you can't really hold that performance against him, but he'll need to start putting up yards sooner or later to serve as a No. 1 Fantasy QB. He has good matchup Week 4 at Cleveland, so keep him active. |
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Palmer hopes to keep improving
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Updated 9/22/2009 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer has never thrown for more than 251 yards against the Steelers, his Week 3 opponents. Palmer torched them for 251 back in 2006 and threw for 4 touchdowns with just 193 yards earlier that season but he's a different quarterback right now. In two games against Denver and at Green Bay this season, Palmer is 36 for 56 for 432 yards with 3 touchdowns and 4 interceptions. All three scores came last week but he threw for just 185 yards in that game. | Analysis: Palmer has definitely looked shaky to start the season as he continues to work his way back into rhythm after his elbow injury. He hasn't been able to throw for high yardage yet but was much improved Week 2 at Green Bay against a tough secondary. We think he'll continue to improve but the Steelers possess a very solid defense. Treat Palmer as a solid No. 2 Fantasy option in Week 3. |
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Palmer has four touchdowns
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Updated 9/20/2009 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer bounced back from a poor outing in Week 1 against Denver with a solid game at Green Bay in Week 2. He was only 15 of 23 passing for 185 yards with two interceptions, but he had three touchdowns through the air and one on the ground. | Analysis: Palmer now has four interceptions on the season, but he was able to come up with a successful Fantasy outing thanks to the four touchdowns. His three touchdown passes went to Chad Ochocinco, Laveranues Coles and Chris Henry. We like Palmer to remain a good Fantasy option, and he's worth using as a low-end No. 1 Fantasy QB in Week 3 against the Steelers. |
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Palmer's elbow remains fine
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Updated 9/17/2009 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: The good news about QB Carson Palmer is that, despite his mediocre season opener against Denver, he's shown no signs of the elbow trouble that plagued him last year. Just the ankle sprain from training camp. "If he could drop back in a wheelchair out there, he could probably get the ball to us," WR Chad Ochocinco said Thursday. Coach Marvin Lewis also wasn't really concerned with Palmer, who had 247 passing yards with two interceptions. "It was his first game of playing after a while," Lewis said. "There's some things we I'd like him to do better. He had a couple throws that he normally makes that he missed." | Analysis: Palmer comes into this game against a Packers defense that intercepted Bears QB Jay Cutler four times in Week 1. With the way Palmer played in Week 1, consider him a No. 2 Fantasy QB in this matchup. |
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Palmer to face tough matchup
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Updated 9/16/2009 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer will face a non-division opponent in Week 2 at Green Bay. The Packers are coming off a four-interception performance against the Bears in Week 1. They allowed one touchdown and 266 yards. | Analysis: Palmer is coming off a poor start against what was not a poor matchup in 1 against the Broncos as he was held without a touchdown and was intercepted twice. Considering the fact he is coming off a major injury, had a poor game in Week 1 and is facing a tough opponent, we consider him a candidate to be reserved in Week 2. |
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Palmer can't find end zone
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Updated 9/13/2009 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: In the Bengals' Week 1 loss vs. the Broncos, QB Carson Palmer started and was fairly efficient with 247 yards on 21 of 33 passing, but he threw two interceptions including a Hail Mary at the end of the game. Palmer added 2 rush yards and was sacked three times. Palmer said after the game that he felt a little off in his return to the lineup. "It took a little bit to get the rust off. I wasn't exactly comfortable," he said. | Analysis: Palmer didn't have that tough of a matchup and still struggled, possibly because of the ankle. Next week he heads to Green Bay to take on the Packers, and that will be a little more difficult than the Broncos at home. Consider Palmer a low-end No. 1/top-end No. 2 Fantasy option in Week 2. |
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Carson Palmer will start
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Updated 9/13/2009 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer will start vs. Denver in Week 1. He was limited with an ankle sprain for much of the preseason. | Analysis: We like Palmer's matchup a lot and expect him to have a solid week. Start him in Week 1 Fantasy action. |
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Palmer runs through full practice
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Updated 9/9/2009 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer (ankle) practiced in full Wednesday and Thursday as the team prepares for Week 1 vs. Denver. Palmer injured his ankle during the first preseason game against New Orleans and sat out the final three, but has been cleared by the doctors to resume his full routine. | Analysis: The only thing at this point that will prevent Palmer taking the field is a setback during practice, but Cincinnati is going to do everything in their power to avoid that. Palmer is itching to get back on the field and prove he can still sling it with the best in the NFL. He also has a great matchup against the Broncos, who were among the worst pass defenses last year at 229 yards per game allowed with 20 touchdowns and only six interceptions. They should improve this year, but Palmer should do fine in this matchup. With Chad Ochocinco, Laveranues Coles and Chris Henry, Palmer has plenty of talent to play like a No. 1 Fantasy QB this week and the entire season. |
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Palmer 'prepared' for Week 1
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Updated 9/7/2009 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Carson Palmer's health will go a long way in determining if the Bengals are back after an ugly four-win season. If he can stay on the field, his team could improve, but in that regard, they're not off to an encouraging start. Palmer was hit several times in the preseason opener at New Orleans and left the game with a moderate high-ankle sprain, the kind that tends to linger and get worse with every hit. After missing three preseason games - more than he missed when he was coming back from reconstructive knee surgery in 2006 - there's a question how sharp he can be for a team that really needs a fast start. "I feel like I'm prepared," said Palmer, who expects to start the opener against Denver in Week 1. "This isn't the best of situations, but you've got to go with what you've got. Would I like to have played? Sure. I'd like to have played all four games." | Analysis: Palmer's matchup against the Broncos is a pretty good one, and we like that he hasn't done anything to further hurt his ankle this summer. Hopefully that stays the same in the Bengals' home opener. Consider him a low-end No. 1 option for Week 1. |
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Palmer sits out of final preseason game
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Updated 9/3/2009 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: The only question for the Bengals in Thursday's preseason game against the Colts was whether the trainers would allow Carson Palmer to play despite a sprained left ankle. Two hours before the game, he knew he wasn't going to get the chance. He worked out on an adjacent practice field, just him and a trainer, doing a series of agility drills for the ankle. His gray Bengals shirt was drenched with sweat. | Analysis: Palmer dressed in his uniform for the game -- a brace on his left ankle bulged from under his white sock -- and watched from the sideline. "It's a tease," Palmer said. "It's just good to know that I'm that much closer. It's a week away. I'm excited." He'll be heading into the season opener against Denver without much of a preseason. Palmer suffered a moderate high-ankle sprain in the first preseason game, then sat out the last three. He didn't return to practice until this week. He threw only 11 passes in the preseason games. Palmer could be due for a bounce back season in 2009 and should be thought of as a No. 1 Fantasy QB this season worth a pick between Rounds 6 and 8 on Draft Day. |
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Palmer expected to be ready for Week 1
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Updated 9/3/2009 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: According to reports, the Bengals will hold QB Carson Palmer out of Thursday's preseason finale against Indianapolis. He is expected to be ready for the team's regular-season opener against Denver, however. | Analysis: The Bengals are going to play it safe with their quarterback and Fantasy owners should just be happy that it does sound like Palmer will be ready for Week 1. Palmer lost right tackle Andre Smith in practice earlier this week and the Bengals are already dealing with a sub-par offensive line. That could be a big negative when it comes to keeping Palmer, injury-riddled as he has been, healthy. Don't let this stop you from taking Palmer, who we still believe will put up the kind of numbers to be a No. 1 Fantasy QB this season. He's worth a pick between Rounds 6 and 8. |
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Palmer's prized rookie OT breaks foot
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Updated 9/1/2009 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Carson Palmer's ankle is on the mend but his rookie tackle's foot is not. Right tackle Andre Smith has broken his foot during practice, only two days after he ended his holdout with the Bengals. He will be sidelined at least a few weeks and won't be able to help protect Palmer. The first-round draft pick sustained a small fracture in his left foot during a noncontact drill Tuesday, his third workout with the team. Coach Marvin Lewis said the injury won't require surgery. Smith was the sixth overall pick, and the Bengals expected him to start at right tackle. His contract impasse forced him to miss the first three preseason games and cost him the chance to win a starting job in training camp. | Analysis: This hurts the depth of the Bengals' O-line more than it hurts Palmer, who has played behind a suspect offensive line for years but still has produced quality stats. Don't let this stop you from taking Palmer, who we still believe will put up the kind of numbers to be a No. 1 Fantasy QB this season. He's worth a pick between Rounds 6 and 8. |
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Palmer practices, might face Colts
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Updated 8/31/2009 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Carson Palmer threw some passes to Bengals teammates during practice Monday, an indication he could play in the final preseason game. Palmer threw to receivers during the first 30 minutes of practice, the first time he's done that in nearly three weeks. The quarterback dropped back after taking snaps and moved around without problem on his sprained left ankle. He sustained a moderate sprain in the first preseason game at New Orleans, and has missed the last two. Coach Marvin Lewis said Monday it's possible Palmer could play in the final exhibition game Thursday against Indianapolis. | Analysis: It's looking good for Palmer to make the start of the regular season, which is all that really matters here. So long as his elbow and ankle are healed, we're looking at a solid No. 1 Fantasy QB with potential to match his previous totals from before 2008. Best of all, you can get him in Rounds 6 through 8, giving him excellent value to go with his potential.o |
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Palmer gets help with Smith
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Updated 8/30/2009 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Offensive tackle Andre Smith signed a contract Sunday with the Cincinnati Bengals, ending an impasse that dragged on a month into the preseason. The Bengals originally planned to have Smith start at right tackle, but he has missed all three preseason games. He was in Cincinnati and agreed to the deal shortly before the start of a late afternoon practice. "He has a lot of work to do, but he knows the challenge ahead of him to make an impact on our team as soon as possible," coach Marvin Lewis said in a statement released as practice began. | Analysis: The Bengals' offensive line was one of their top priorities in the offseason. The offense finished last in the league in 2008 in large part because of the line's ineffectiveness. QB Carson Palmer missed a dozen games because he tore a ligament and tendon in his throwing elbow when he got hit while passing. Only right guard Bobbie Williams returns in the same spot this year. The Bengals let their two tackles leave and drafted Smith, whose holdout forced them to revamp their plans. Anthony Collins has played right tackle in Smith's absence. Palmer, who is dealing with an injured ankle, needs all the help he can get, and hopefully Smith can play well. Keep an eye on Palmer's ankle, but consider him a good No. 1 Fantasy QB you can swipe between Rounds 6 and 8. |
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Palmer unsure if he'll play Thurs.
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Updated 8/29/2009 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer doesn't know whether the Cincinnati medical staff will let him play in the final preseason game. Palmer sprained his left ankle in the first preseason game and has sat out the last two. He said Saturday that the ankle is improving, but he doesn't know what he'll be allowed to do leading up to Thursday's game against Indianapolis. Palmer says he would like to play but the decision is up to the training staff. | Analysis: The Bengals expect Palmer to be ready for the season opener on Sept. 13 against the Denver Broncos, which is all Fantasy players really care about. However, he's likely to be pretty rusty with only limited preseason action under his belt. If you think he's in for a bounce-back season, then take a flier on Palmer anywhere between the sixth and eighth rounds and just hope he can stay healthy for you as your No. 1 option. |
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Bengals desperate to play Palmer
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Updated 8/27/2009 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: The Bengals were reminded during Thursday's preseason game against the Rams that they really need quarterback Carson Palmer (ankle) back for their opener against Denver. J.T. O'Sullivan was sacked three times, lost a fumble and had two passes batted away at the line. His best moment was an improvised underhand pass to running back Brian Leonard that went for 25 yards and set up a touchdown. O'Sullivan was 7 of 13 for 94 yards while playing into the third quarter. | Analysis: With Palmer sidelined the last two games by a sprained left ankle, the offense has moved the ball in spurts but failed to get many points because of penalties and mistakes. There is no question Palmer is the Bengals' starting quarterback when healthy, but that has been a big issue since last season. He hasn't had any issues with his elbow this preseason and is merely recovering from an ankle tweak. Palmer is a strong candidate to have a bounce-back year and has some good receiving threats in Chad Ochocinco, Laveranues Coles and Chris Henry. Consider him a good No. 1 Fantasy QB you can swipe between Rounds 6 and 8. |
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Palmer to sit out Thursday's game
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Updated 8/25/2009 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: The Cincinnati Post reports that Carson Palmer is unlikely to play in Thursday's preseason game against the Rams after not practicing all week. He has not practiced since Aug. 12, which was the last practice before the team's preseason game against New Orleans. He did some light tossing on a side field Sunday and is keeping his arm in shape, but has not been able to consistently drop back to pass. "I'll take it day by day," Palmer said. "It looks slim (playing) but I'll keep rehabbing, see how it feels and if it keeps improving see where we're at Thursday." Coach Marvin Lewis said that it was unlikely that Palmer would play. J.T. O’Sullivan, who has had a strong preseason, would get the start for the second straight week while Jordan Palmer would see increased playing time. | Analysis: Palmer said that he could play with it if this was the regular season and that the training staff is being cautious. "I definitely think it's the smart thing to do," Palmer said. "Ankle sprains aren't something you want to mess with or let linger because they will linger. It's something the staff wants to treat now and be ready to roll. The training staff has decided it's best to have me ready for the opener. I would like to play in every game. I would like to play three quarters in every game. Nobody does that and obviously I haven't been able to do that. The more work you get the more comfortable you get." Given his history of injuries, Fantasy owners have to be concerned with the way his preseason has gone, but it could all help to make him that much better of a value in Fantasy drafts. Palmer is a strong candidate to have a bounce-back year and has some good receiving threats in Chad Ochocinco, Laveranues Coles and Chris Henry. Consider him a good No. 1 Fantasy QB you can swipe between Rounds 6 and 8. |
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Palmer will 'for sure' be ready
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Updated 8/24/2009 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: While it's looking bleak for Palmer to play in the Bengals' third preseason game vs. the Rams, he said Monday that he will "for sure" be ready for the team's regular-season opener. Palmer sprained his ankle in the team's first preseason game at New Orleans. "I can throw, but not drop back right now," he said. "I'm trying to keep my arm in shape, basically. I'll take it day-to-day." | Analysis: You should have almost no concerns about Palmer's health at this point, and perhaps missing another preseason game will keep him fresh. Palmer is a strong candidate to have a bounce-back year and has some good receiving threats in Chad Ochocinco, Laveranues Coles and Chris Henry. Consider him a good No. 1 Fantasy QB you can swipe between Rounds 6 and 8. |
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Palmer throws, doesn't practice
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Updated 8/23/2009 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Cincinnati QB Carson Palmer did some light tossing Sunday, but did not practice with the team. Palmer, who has a sprained left ankle, is questionable for Thursday's preseason game against St. Louis. He missed much of last season with an elbow injury. "If last week had been a regular-season game, he probably would have played. But we are going to continue to be cautious, because it is just preseason," coach Marvin Lewis said. "We'd like him to get some more time with our first unit, and I think we will do that before the preseason is over. But the most important thing is to have him 100 percent for Denver (on Sept. 13)." | Analysis: Palmer will likely take his time in coming back from the ankle injury, so don't be surprised if he takes a few days to get healthy. We need to make sure he's 100 percent, so keep an eye on his recovery. When healthy, Palmer should be in line for a bounce back year this season. He is worth drafting as a No. 1 Fantasy option with a mid-round pick. |
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Palmer sits out as expected
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Updated 8/20/2009 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Bengals QB J.T. O'Sullivan started during Thursday's preseason game against the Patriots while Carson Palmer sat out with a right ankle injury suffered in the exhibition opener. Palmer doesn't expect to miss the regular-season opener and could return before then. | Analysis: While Palmer did roll his ankle last week against the Saints, we should be glad he hasn't experienced any setbacks with his throwing arm. It seems the Bengals are just being cautious so they don't have to endure another season without their star quarterback. When healthy, Palmer should be in line for a bounce back year this season. He is worth drafting as a No. 1 Fantasy option with a mid-round pick. |
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Palmer ruled out for Thursday
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Updated 8/17/2009 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer, who sprained his ankle in the preseason opener against the Saints on Friday, returned to the locker room Monday after going through rehab. He was wearing an ankle covering but no boot on his foot. With the absence of Carson Palmer (ankle) at practice, backups J.T. O'Sullivan and Jordan Palmer have had plenty of good moments. Both will play extensively at New England on Thursday as Palmer has been ruled out for the team's second preseason game. | Analysis: Palmer will likely take his time in coming back from the ankle injury, so don't be surprised if he takes a few days to get healthy. We need to make sure he's 100 percent, so keep an eye on his recovery. When healthy, Palmer should be in line for a bounce back year this season. He is worth drafting as a No. 1 Fantasy option with a mid-round pick. |
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Palmer suffers high-ankle sprain
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Updated 8/15/2009 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Carson Palmer's left ankle was encased in a protective boot by the time his first appearance of the preseason was done. His throwing arm, however, felt fine, and the numbers he put up in a short time proved that Cincinnati's passing game is on the comeback trail. Playing for the first time since an elbow injury sidelined him early last season, Palmer completed seven of 11 passes for 133 yards in the Bengals' 17-7 preseason loss to New Orleans on Friday night. "I feel good," Palmer said after the game, admitting he had a high-ankle sprain. "A little rusty. ... We've got to keep working and get the rust off." Palmer left the game late in the first quarter, moments after his quick sideline throw to Chad Ochocinco produced a 55-yard gain. Palmer was playing hurt by that point, but said the injury was minor and that he hoped it would not prevent him from practicing next week. | Analysis: It's also worth noting here that Palmer had excellent pass protection in the game. Palmer was more concerned with his one mistake in the game, an interception by Jonathan Vilma. It's clear that Palmer's elbow concerns are out of his mind, and hopefully this ankle injury won't be significant enough to deter Fantasy owners from taking him (though high-ankle sprains have been problematic in the past). We see Palmer as a legit low-end No. 1 Fantasy QB worth a pick around Rounds 7 and 8. |
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Palmer throws pick in scrimmage
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Updated 8/7/2009 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Carson Palmer had a completion and an interception Friday on the opening drive of the Cincinnati Bengals' training camp scrimmage, played under an airborne reminder of fans' discontent. The Bengals went 4-11-1 last season, when Palmer missed a dozen games with a severe elbow injury. He was 3 for 4 for 36 yards during the annual scrimmage, with an interception on a pass that safety Chris Crocker anticipated. Crocker saw the play developing and stepped in front of Chad Ochocinco. "That was the first thing I asked him, if he knew what the play was," Palmer said. "And the defender will never admit to knowing the play. They always say it's their great instincts and their keen ability. But he made a good play. I shouldn't have thrown it there." | Analysis: The main intrigue for the scrimmage was how Palmer would look when he returned to running an offense that finished last in the league without him. He played only a few series and didn't get to do much, with the offense working on running plays most of the time. The franchise quarterback didn't play after Oct. 5 last year, a 31-22 loss to Dallas that convinced him there was a problem with his passing elbow. Palmer hurt the elbow two weeks earlier when he was hit while throwing, but didn't consider it a serious injury. Tests found that he had partially torn a ligament and a tendon from the bone. He chose to let the elbow heal with time and treatment rather than having reconstructive surgery. He's been throwing full speed during the offseason. "I feel good," Palmer said. "I feel confident in what I'm doing personally, confident in what we're doing as an offense. I keep saying the same thing over and over: We just need to keep getting better. I need to keep getting better." We like Palmer as a low-end No. 1/top-end No. 2 Fantasy QB worth a pick between Rounds 7 and 8 in drafts. There is clearly a ton of Fantasy potential, if he can revert to his old form. |
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Palmer OK after falling ill
|
Updated 8/3/2009 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Carson Palmer is practicing again with the Cincinnati Bengals after a case of bronchitis. Palmer missed two practices over the weekend and worked out with the team Monday. He said he's feeling better and has been told he's not contagious. | Analysis: Palmer is continuing to make a strong comeback from a torn elbow ligament that crushed his 2008 campaign. With a good veteran receiving corps behind him, Palmer is in line to throw plenty this season and regain his status as a Fantasy starter. We like Palmer as a low-end No. 1/top-end No. 2 Fantasy QB worth a pick between Rounds 7 and 8 in drafts this summer. |
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Palmer healthy, still on pitch count
|
Updated 7/21/2009 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: The Cincinnati Enquirer reports Bengals QB Carson Palmer, who was limited to four starts last year due to an elbow injury that did not require surgery, says the elbow is 100 percent heading into training camp. The report says that during OTAs and minicamp, the Bengals receivers said that the passes from Palmer had the old velocity and zip. As the offseason drills went on, the long passes looked more consistent and crisper, too. Palmer will be on a pitch count during training camp, and will not throw more than 150 passes a day. | Analysis: It sounds like Palmer is all systems go for a full recovery, and we think Palmer will return as a No. 1 Fantasy QB. He is worth drafting with a mid-round pick, but keep an eye on his progress during camp. As long as there's no setback, Palmer should bounce back as a top-flight Fantasy option. |
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Coffman: Palmer looks great
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Updated 7/2/2009 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: At the NFL Rookie Symposium in Palm Beach Gardens, Fla., Bengals rookie TE Chase Coffman told CBSSports.com in an exclusive interview that QB Carson Palmer has looked good throwing the ball this offseason after dealing with last year's elbow injury. "He's been throwing some great passes and looks good," Coffman said. | Analysis: All the reports from Cincinnati said Palmer has looked good this offseason, but it's good to hear a first-hand account. We like Palmer to bounce back as a No. 1 Fantasy QB this season, but you should draft him as a No. 2 option with a mid-round pick. With Chad Ochocinco committed to a rebound year and with Laveranues Coles replacing T.J. Houshmandzadeh, Palmer should be fine. And if Coffman steps in and plays well as a rookie, Palmer could shine. |
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Palmer to keep throwing
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Updated 6/26/2009 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: The Dayton Daily News reports Bengals QB Carson Palmer plans to throw plenty between now and training camp to build up his arm strength. "It's just like when a track guy needs to get faster. You don't do 5,000 squats, you run and run some more," Palmer said. "To get your arm in shape you throw and continue to throw. So I will be throwing all summer long as well as in training camp." Palmer missed 12 games last season with a serious elbow injury. Now the former Pro Bowler is looking to rebound and lead his team to the playoffs. Palmer's offseason preparation has included the OTAs and minicamp. These are the first steps in his return to prominence. "It's great to be back," Palmer said. | Analysis: Palmer is considered one of the most prolific passers in the league, throwing for 15,630 yards and 107 touchdowns in six seasons with the Bengals. We like Palmer to bounce back and play well this season. Consider Palmer a low-end No. 1 Fantasy QB, and he's worth drafting with a mid-round pick. |
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Palmer shows old form
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Updated 6/19/2009 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Carson Palmer squinted into the harsh afternoon sun, sizing up the defense. He pointed to the middle of the field with both index fingers, took the snap and threw a quick pass to rookie WR Quan Cosby, a crisp spiral that zipped over defenders' outstretched hands. Perfect. Just what the Bengals have been missing. Their franchise QB, the one with the balky elbow, was back at the center of the offense Thursday, running the show during the first day of minicamp. He wore long, white sleeves and black sweat pants, keeping his California cool in the midday heat. It looked and felt like old times. "Carson, he's sweet," WR Chad Ochocinco said. "He's on top of his stuff. As far as the elbow (injury), it's got to be gone because all of the balls had the normal zip. He's on point." Palmer missed a dozen games during Cincinnati's 4-11-1 season last year. He partially tore a ligament and tendon from the bone in his passing elbow, and got conflicting medical advice on what to do about it. He could have gotten reconstructive surgery, but chose to see if it would heal on its own. So far, it's apparent he made the right choice. Palmer has been throwing informally and during voluntary team workouts, slowly building back his strength. "It's getting stronger in the sense that I can throw for longer," Palmer said. "I have the same speed on the ball at the end of practice. I'm starting to get to the point now where the ball's not dying at the end of practice." | Analysis: The Bengals are keeping Palmer on the equivalent of a pitch count, limiting the number of throws he makes in practice until the season begins. Palmer's return to form - and Ochocinco's return to the fold - help Palmer return as a low-end No. 1 Fantasy option. Consider Palmer a sleeper this year because owners will be afraid of his elbow and the loss of T.J. Houshmandzadeh (Seattle), but Palmer should do fine with Laveranues Coles and rookie TE Chase Coffman filling in with Ochocinco and Chris Henry. Palmer is worth a mid-round pick in all leagues. |
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Palmer glad Ochocinco in camp
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Updated 6/18/2009 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer is pleased WR Chad Ochocinco is in minicamp and focused on this season. "In my seven years here, this has been as good as its been," Palmer said. "The mindset of the team, the amount of distractions is down and the focus is where it needs to be. As far as talent wise, this is probably the best talent we've had but the most maturity we've had by far. We're where we need to be, we're headed in the right direction." With Ochocinco reporting to the team's OTAs last week, it is the first time since 2005 that the starters have had a chance to practice before minicamp. That is a reason Palmer thinks the team is much more ahead than it was last year. "You compare where we are to last year, you could just tell we were a bad football team," Palmer said. "Going into training camp, coming out of training camp. Week 1, it just felt terrible. We were out of synch, out of rhythm, all of our guys weren't there. It was a scary year going in, then we start 0-2, 0-3, 0-4, you could see it coming. Right now we know we're a good team, just having that confidence and feeling is exciting. I hope we're mature enough to realize we need to take advantage of where we are because it hasn't been like this." | Analysis: It's good to see Palmer feeling confident, and all reports on his injured elbow from last year indicate he should be in line for a bounce-back year. Consider Palmer a low-end No. 1 Fantasy QB, and he's worth drafting with a mid-round pick. |
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Palmer has good workout
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Updated 5/19/2009 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: According to the team web site, Bengals QB Carson Palmer looked good in his first workout during OTA practice Tuesday. Palmer, who missed 12 games last season with an elbow injury, threw with ease. The web site said "Palmer's elbow concerns were dispelled early when he threw an easy 45-yard floater on the money downfield to (WR Chris) Henry, who caught it in stride." Said Palmer: "It feels like it did before I hurt my elbow." | Analysis: This is shaping up to be great news for Palmer. He also got his first chance to work with WR Laveranues Coles, who was signed to replace the departed T.J. Houshmandzadeh (Seattle). Rookie TE Chase Coffman (foot) isn't practicing, and Chad Ochocinco isn't taking part in the workout, but Palmer is still getting his work in, which is important. We like Palmer as a No. 2 Fantasy QB entering the season, but he could return to No. 1 status if he continues to get good reports like this. |
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Palmer says elbow is ready
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Updated 5/19/2009 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: The Cincinnati Enquirer reports Bengals QB Carson Palmer said his throwing elbow is 100 percent, and that he plans to throw 150 passes during OTA practices, which is consistent with past years. Palmer, who missed 12 games last season with an elbow injury, said the offseason has been "pretty normal" as far as training and conditioning work. "I'm very eager to get out there and participate," Palmer said. | Analysis: It sounds like Palmer is getting close to 100 percent, which is a good thing and will make a viable Fantasy option this year. He enters the season as a No. 2 Fantasy QB, but he could move up to No. 1 status quickly if he shows he's back to form. He did lose T.J. Houshmandzadeh as a free agent to Seattle, but Laveranues Coles takes his place alongside Chad Ochocinco. Plan on drafting Palmer with a mid-round pick, but keep an eye on how his elbow holds up this offseason. |
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Palmer gets new blocker
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Updated 4/26/2009 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: The Bengals made sure to get QB Carson Palmer some protection in the NFL Draft by taking OT Andre Smith from Alabama with their first-round pick at No. 6 overall. Smith is listed at 6-foot-4, 332 pounds. Palmer, who was banged up last year with an elbow injury, should definitely be happy with this draft selection. | Analysis: Palmer will need plenty of time to get the ball downfield to Chad Johnson and Chris Henry. Smith should provide that, and addressing the offensive line was a big key for the Bengals. Keeping Palmer healthy is a big key for Fantasy owners, and he should be 100 percent for this season. Palmer comes into the year as a No. 2 Fantasy QB, but he has the potential to regain his form when healthy and return to being a No. 1 option. He has sleeper written all over him in this year's drafts. |
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Palmer: Arm is '100 percent'
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Updated 3/30/2009 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Carson Palmer says his arm is at full strength and ready for football, according to ESPN. The veteran QB of the Bengals is recovered from offseason rehab of a torn elbow ligament that healed without surgery and is on pace to be ready for the start of training camp. "I'm 100 percent," Palmer said. "I've been cleared. My elbow feels great and I just have to keep going and get the small mechanical things that I normally do this time of year." | Analysis: The Bengals are still expected to keep Palmer on a "pitch count" just to be safe, but it appears that he won't be unlimited otherwise in his workouts. Palmer should continue to be a candidate for high yardage on a weekly basis, especially if the Bengals improve their offensive line via the draft. Suddenly, the risk surrounding Palmer is hitting the skids, and it seems like he'll be active and under center from the get-go in 2009. Even though he lost T.J. Houshmandzadeh via free agency, the club replaced him with Laveranues Coles and will pair him with Chad Ochocinco to make for a good pass attack. Palmer remains a top-of-the-line No. 2 Fantasy QB worth a middle-round pick -- obviously, he's got the potential to be a No. 1 if he's on the same page with his veteran receivers. |
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Coles rescues Palmer's Fantasy worth?
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Updated 3/4/2009 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: With the addition of Laveranues Coles to the Bengals roster, QB Carson Palmer gets a fairly suitable replacement for T.J. Houshmandzadeh. They're different receivers -- Coles depends on his speed more than Houshmandzadeh does, and as such is no lock for a bumper crop of touchdowns unless Palmer targets him near the end zone. That might be unlikely considering the relationship and chemistry Palmer has with Chad Ocho Cinco. However, Coles' hands and overall ability should put a band-aid on the gash left by Houshmandzadeh's departure to Seattle. | Analysis: Palmer really needed Coles to save his Fantasy value -- the next best receivers behind him and Ocho Cinco are Chris Henry, Andre Caldwell and Jerome Simpson. In any event, Palmer should continue to be a candidate for high yardage on a weekly basis, especially if the Bengals improve their offensive line via the draft. Don't forget that Palmer is coming back from a partially torn elbow muscle this season, something he elected not to have surgery on. There's a lot of risk with Palmer, but he's a bit easier to digest with a veteran like Coles on the roster. Palmer remains a top-of-the-line No. 2 Fantasy QB worth a middle-round pick -- obviously, he's got the potential to be a No. 1 if he's fully healed and on the same page with his veteran receivers. |
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Palmer loses WR Houshmandzadeh
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Updated 3/3/2009 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Carson Palmer will have one of his big targets missing in 2009 as WR T.J. Houshmandzadeh signed a five-year deal with the Seahawks on Monday. Palmer had relied on Houshmandzadeh since becoming the club's full-time starter in 2004, connecting with him for a pair of 1,000-yard seasons and at least seven scores in three seasons from 2005-07. | Analysis: Palmer still has Chad Ocho Cinco to throw to as well as Chris Henry and second-year receivers Jerome Simpson and Andre Caldwell. Still, missing one of his key receivers will sting in 2009, especially if he's not properly replaced. Not only will this departure hurt Palmer's overall stats, but it will make the Bengals easier to defend as clubs can zero in on Ocho Cinco. And don't forget that Palmer is coming back from a partially torn elbow muscle this season, something he elected not to have surgery for. There's a lot of risk with Palmer, and not a lot of reward to go with it. Even with his talent, Palmer is reduced to a top-of-the-line No. 2 Fantasy QB worth a middle-round pick. |
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Palmer doesn't need surgery
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Updated 1/7/2009 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Bengals quarterback Carson Palmer won't need surgery on his right elbow and should be ready for the team's regular offseason workouts later on this year. Team spokesman Jack Brennan said Tuesday night the latest MRI on Palmer's elbow indicates the quarterback won't need an operation to repair a ligament and tendon partially torn from the bone. Palmer had torn a ligament and tendon in the third game of the season when his arm was hit while he threw a pass and played in only one game after that. On the advice of doctors, he rested the elbow for two months to see if the injury would heal on its own. | Analysis: Palmer had an off year when he did play, completing 76-of-130 passes for 736 yards (5.7 yards per attempt -- a career-low). He threw three touchdowns but had four interceptions and added 38 rush yards. He'll likely be considered a low-end No. 1 Fantasy QB heading into 2009 drafts and be nabbed with a pick between Rounds 5 and 8. Obviously, he's got a lot of sleeper potential based on his ability, though his receiving corps could undergo some changes this offseason. |
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Bengals list Week 17 inactives
|
Updated 12/28/2008 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: The Bengals have listed the inactives for their Week 17 game vs. Kansas City. Not in uniform will be: QB Carson Palmer, RB Chris Perry, RB Kenny Watson, WR T.J. Houshmandzadeh, WR Chad Johnson and DT Jason Shirley. | Analysis: Housh and Johnson clearly have the most Fantasy value in this group, so make sure you bench them in all formats. The other guys, except for Palmer, who was ruled out for the season already, have minimal or zero value. |
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Palmer thinks he won't need surgery
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Updated 12/24/2008 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer was encouraged by how his elbow reacted to a day of limited practice, leaving him more confident he can avoid reconstructive surgery. Palmer joined the team for 7-on-7 drills Tuesday and made about 30 passes, including several long throws. Palmer had torn a ligament and tendon in the third game of the season when his arm was hit while he threw a pass and played in only one game after that. On the advice of doctors, he rested the elbow for two months to see if the injury would heal on its own. He's been slowly increasing his throwing for the last couple of weeks, testing the elbow to see how it feels. He's hoping to avoid reconstructive surgery, an operation that few NFL quarterbacks have undergone. "I felt good," he said. "Nothing great to report, nothing out of the ordinary." | Analysis: Palmer hopes to practice with the team the rest of this week if the weather permits. Palmer will then consult his doctors and figure out the next step. Given how his throwing in practice has gone, Palmer said there's less of a possibility he'll need surgery. He also said there's no specific date for when he has to finally rule out surgery. Palmer had an off year when he did play, completing 76-of-130 passes for 736 yards (5.7 yards per attempt -- a career-low). He threw three touchdowns but had four interceptions and added 38 rush yards. He'll likely be considered a low-end No. 1 Fantasy QB heading into 2009 drafts and be nabbed with a pick between Rounds 5 and 8. |
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Bengals list Week 16 inactives
|
Updated 12/21/2008 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: The Bengals have announced the inactives for their Week 16 game at Cleveland. Not in uniform will be: QB Carson Palmer (third QB), WR Chad Johnson, WR Jerome Simpson, TE Ben Utecht, RB Kenny Watson and CB Simeon Castille. | Analysis: Johnson was probable coming into Sunday, but his hamstring is not ready for game action. Palmer was declared out for the year earlier this season. Utecht can have some Fantasy value when healthy, but his foot injury will keep him out. Ignore the rest. |
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Palmer done for year but feeling OK
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Updated 12/15/2008 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer is doing well in his comeback from an elbow injury and could throw in practice this week. Coach Marvin Lewis said Palmer is throwing hard in his personal workouts and having no problems with the elbow. Palmer has a partially torn ligament and tendon in the right elbow, which was injured in the third game of the season. He rested the elbow for the last two months, but resumed throwing two weeks ago. Lewis said he might be allowed to do some limited throwing in practice this week, though he's not going to play in any of the Bengals' last two games. Palmer is hoping to avoid reconstructive elbow surgery. | Analysis: You can go ahead and cut Palmer from your Fantasy team if you haven't already -- the guy admitted to having a partially torn ligament in his right elbow and the team has no intention of bringing him back. Eventually, you have to figure that Palmer will spend the offseason rehabbing with or without surgery. We'll keep track of his progress throughout the offseason and let you know what to do with him when 2009 rolls around. |
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Bengals list Week 15 inactives
|
Updated 12/14/2008 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer (3rd QB) is still among the Week 15 inactives for Cincinnati against the Redskins. The following players are also inactive for the game: RB Chris Perry, RB Kenny Watson, DB Chinedum Ndukwe, TE Ben Utecht and WR Jerome Simpson. | Analysis: We would be stunned if the one-win and one-tie Bengals let Palmer go out on the field again this season with nothing to play for. What we will likely see is Palmer continue to test his elbow over the next three weeks and try to avoid surgery -- and playing time. You can go ahead and cut Palmer from your Fantasy team if you haven't already -- the guy admitted to having a partially torn ligament in his right elbow. The rest of the names above have little Fantasy relevance and don't need to be on rosters at this time. |
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Palmer could play again this year?
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Updated 12/9/2008 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer will throw for longer distances this week, an encouraging development as he tests his injured passing elbow. Coach Marvin Lewis said Monday that Palmer will increase the throwing distance this week. He started by throwing the ball about 15 yards, and has increased the distance a little more as he went along. If he can progress without pain or discomfort, Lewis might let the star passer play again this season. "He'd like an opportunity to play if he's healthy and well," Lewis said. "What football players do is they play football." | Analysis: We would be stunned if the one-win and one-tie Bengals let Palmer go out on the field again this season with nothing to play for. What we will likely see is Palmer continue to test his elbow over the next three weeks and try to avoid surgery -- and playing time. You can go ahead and cut Palmer from your Fantasy team if you haven't already -- the guy admitted to having a partially torn ligament in his right elbow. Eventually, you have to figure that Palmer will spend the offseason rehabbing with or without surgery. We'll keep track of his progress throughout the offseason and let you know what to do with him when 2009 rolls around. |
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Palmer is emergency QB Week 14
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Updated 12/7/2008 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer is inactive for Week 14 at Indianapolis. He is, however, listed as the team's emergency 3rd QB. | Analysis: Palmer partially tore a tendon and ligament from the bone in his right elbow. He rested one week, then played in a loss at Dallas on Oct. 5. He realized he couldn't throw as hard as normal in that one, and began the recommended rest of two months, followed by some throwing. Palmer has thrown a sponge football during his rehabilitation, but only about 10 yards. In the meantime, you can go ahead and cut Palmer from your Fantasy team if you haven't already. Not only will he not play in Week 14, but the guy admitted to having a partially torn ligament in his right elbow. If he tries to play, it's not going to end well, and the reality that the Bengals are 1-10-1 won't help his cause since the team is going nowhere. Eventually, you have to figure that Palmer will have surgery, and the sooner he has it, the more likely he'll be ready to play in 2009. |
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Palmer to test arm this week
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Updated 12/3/2008 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer plans to test his right elbow in the next few days, giving him a better idea of whether he will need reconstructive surgery. Palmer said Wednesday he's still on schedule to throw a football at the end of the week, the first time he's done so in nine weeks. The elbow was injured when his arm got hit as he threw a pass in the third game of the season against the Giants. If Palmer's elbow is still bothering him when he resumes throwing, he'll likely have reconstructive surgery. "Like I keep saying, if I knew I had to have the surgery, I'd already have it done," Palmer said. "I'll see what the doctors say, have it checked out and go with a professional decision from a doctor." | Analysis: Palmer partially tore a tendon and ligament from the bone in his right elbow. He rested one week, then played in a loss at Dallas on Oct. 5. He realized he couldn't throw as hard as normal in that one, and began the recommended rest of two months, followed by some throwing. Palmer has thrown a sponge football during his rehabilitation, but only about 10 yards. In the meantime, you can go ahead and cut Palmer from your Fantasy team if you haven't already. Not only will he not play in Week 14, but the guy admitted to having a partially torn ligament in his right elbow. If he tries to play, it's not going to end well, and the reality that the Bengals are 1-10-1 won't help his cause since the team is going nowhere. Eventually, you have to figure that Palmer will have surgery, and the sooner he has it, the more likely he'll be ready to play in 2009. |
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Palmer not going to play, as usual
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Updated 11/30/2008 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: The Bengals listed QB Carson Palmer among their inactives for Week 13 against the Ravens with the same right elbow injury that has sidelined him since Week 6. Palmer acknowledged Monday that the ligament and tendon in his right elbow are partially torn from the bone. He will throw in about a week to see if he can play again this season. | Analysis: Palmer likely won't return this season, so you shouldn't bother with him in seasonal leagues. Ryan Fitzpatrick, his replacement, is a No. 3 Fantasy option against the Ravens, meaning you probably shouldn't use him. |
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Palmer to test arm in two weeks
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Updated 11/24/2008 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Bengals quarterback Carson Palmer will throw in two weeks and then decide whether his passing elbow needs reconstructive surgery. Palmer acknowledged Monday that the ligament and tendon in his right elbow are partially torn from the bone. He has missed the last six games doing rehabilitation in hopes the elbow will heal without surgery. Palmer hasn't given up on the notion of playing this season. If the elbow bothers him when he resumes throwing on Dec. 7, he will have to decide whether to have reconstructive surgery that could affect him into next season. Palmer said on Monday that the elbow is feeling better and getting stronger with his rehabilitation work. | Analysis: In the meantime, you can go ahead and cut Palmer from your Fantasy team if you haven't already. Not only will he not play in Weeks 13 and 14, but the guy admitted to having a partially torn ligament in his right elbow. If he tries to play, it's not going to end well, and the reality that the Bengals are 1-9-1 won't help his cause since the team is going nowhere. Eventually, you have to figure that Palmer will have surgery, and the sooner he has it, the more likely he'll be ready to play in 2009. Palmer's not going to help your Fantasy team much this season, however. |
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Palmer inactive as anticipated
|
Updated 11/20/2008 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: The Bengals listed QB Carson Palmer among their inactives for Week 12 at Pittsburgh with the same right elbow injury that has sidelined him since Week 6. | Analysis: Palmer likely won't return this season, so you shouldn't bother with him in seasonal leagues. Ryan Fitzpatrick, his replacement, is at best a No. 2 Fantasy option against the Steelers on Thursday. |
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Report: Palmer out again
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Updated 11/18/2008 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: The NFL Network is reporting that Bengals QB Carson Palmer will be out for Week 12 at Pittsburgh with his injured elbow. This will be the fifth game in a row that Palmer has missed with the injury. Ryan Fitzpatrick will start again for the Bengals. | Analysis: It continues to look like Palmer won't be back this season. There is no point in holding onto him at this point. It's safe to release him in all leagues. Fitzpatrick should be considered a low-end No. 2 Fantasy option against the Steelers on Thursday. |
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Palmer among Week 11 inactives
|
Updated 11/16/2008 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Cincinnati is still without QB Carson Palmer in Week 11 against the Eagles. The other inactives for Philadelphia are: DL Eric Henderson, TE Nate Lawrie, WR Andre Caldwell, WR Jerome Simpson, DL Antwan Odom and DL Jason Shirley. | Analysis: Same ol' routine for those Fantasy owners who are sticking with Palmer this late into the season. There are rumors that Palmer might wind up having Tommy John surgery, which would impact his next two seasons and possibly the rest of his career. He has no Fantasy value for the time being, but keep him if you want. The rest of these players have no Fantasy value and should be kept off rosters. |
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Another week without QB Palmer
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Updated 11/10/2008 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Quarterback Carson Palmer will be sidelined for the Bengals' game Sunday against the Eagles. Palmer has missed the last four games because of an injured right elbow. He has been doing rehabilitation on the elbow, hoping to play again sometime this season. The Bengals returned from their bye week Monday, and Palmer said nothing had changed in his comeback plans. Coach Marvin Lewis said Palmer will skip practice during the week to work on the elbow. Ryan Fitzpatrick will start in his place against the Eagles. | Analysis: Same ol' routine for those Fantasy owners who are sticking with Palmer this late into the season. There are rumors that Palmer might wind up having Tommy John surgery, which would impact his next two seasons and possibly the rest of his career. Expect the Bengals to be very careful with Palmer in the short-term and keep him benched for now. Cutting him for a quarterback or another player at this point isn't the worst of ideas so long as the player you would be picking up would surely help your team win now. Hopefully we learn more about Palmer's status in the coming weeks. |
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Four Bengals go statless
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Updated 11/2/2008 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Bengals TE Daniel Coats, WR Glenn Holt, TE Brad St. Louis and QB Jesse Palmer all dressed for Cincinnati's Week 9 win over the Jaguars but failed to record an offensive statistic. | Analysis: None of these players have any Fantasy value, so continue to ignore them. The Bengals are off in Week 10. |
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Bengals announce Week 9 inactives
|
Updated 11/2/2008 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: The Bengals have announced the Week 9 inactives for their game vs. Jacksonville. Not in uniform will be: QB Carson Palmer (elbow), DB Geoffrey Pope (coach's decision), TE Nate Lawrie (coach's decision), WR Andre Caldwell (foot), WR Jerome Simpson (ankle), DT Orien Harris (coach's decision) and DT Jason Shirley (coach's decision). | Analysis: Palmer obviously still has some Fantasy value, but he was declared out earlier in the week. No one else in this list has any value. |
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Palmer trying to return
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Updated 10/30/2008 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer hasn't thrown in the towel on playing again. An elbow injury has sidelined Palmer for half of the Bengals' eight losses. Even though Cincinnati is headed nowhere, Palmer is going through a rehabilitation program, hoping to play again this season. "He'll continue to follow their program of rehab," coach Marvin Lewis said. "He is doing great. At some point, they'll try to evaluate him a little further. Carson wants to play. As soon as he can get to that point and can progress back into throwing on the field, then we'll have a better indication." The Bengals have their bye in Week 10, which would provide a good time to take stock of Palmer's status. If the elbow isn't healed, he could decide that surgery is needed. Palmer has declined to talk about the injury, other than to emphatically deny reports he won't play again this season. | Analysis: Keep an eye on Palmer's status to see if he can come back, but it appears like he will be out for the rest of the season. Ignore him in Week 9 vs. Jacksonville. |
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Palmer out, could return
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Updated 10/28/2008 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer (inflamed right elbow) will be sidelined for a fourth straight game and fifth in six weeks Sunday vs. Jacksonville, reports the Dayton Daily News. But the paper says the club's refusal to place Palmer on injured reserve is an indication he could play again this season, as early as Nov. 16 vs. Philadelphia. The bye week is Nov. 9. "The timeline on Carson remains the same," coach Marvin Lewis said Monday. "He'll continue to follow the program of rehab. He will not throw on the (practice) field this week. He is doing great. At some point, (doctors will) evaluate him a little further. Carson wants to play. And as soon as he can get to that point and can progress back into throwing on the field, then we'll have a better indication." Ryan Fitzpatrick will start against the Jaguars. | Analysis: Keep an eye on what happens with Palmer, but it's unlikely he will play again this year. He's not worth holding onto in Fantasy leagues at this point even with the chance he could return because he would not be at 100 percent. Ignore Fitzpatrick in all leagues at this time. |
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Palmer inactive again Week 8
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Updated 10/26/2008 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Cincinnati QB Carson Palmer (right elbow) is inactive, as expected, for Week 8 at Houston. Head coach Marvin Lewis said Friday that Carson won't play until mid-November, but beyond that, he would not venture a guess. | Analysis: Continue to hang on to hope as long as Palmer is not officially declared out for the season, but start making plans for your QB situation as if he will not return. There is a very real possibility his year could be over. |
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Conflicting reports on Palmer
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Updated 10/25/2008 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: There have been some conflicting reports on the status of QB Carson Palmer and his right elbow injury since the end of Bengals practice Friday. Head coach Marvin Lewis said Friday that Carson won't play until mid-November, but beyond that, he would not venture a guess. But ESPN is reporting that Carson Palmer is not likely to play again this season. Palmer is said to have a frayed ligament in his elbow and is taking a wait and see approach as far as his next step. That next step could be season-ending surgery. | Analysis: Palmer will miss another game in Week 8 at Houston. Missing Sunday's game, Palmer will have missed four of his last five games for the Bengals. It seems his fate could be decided very soon and if these reports are true, then this will be a lost season for Palmer in Fantasy. Ryan Fitzpatrick would continue to start in his place. Continue to hang on to hope as long as Palmer is not officially declared out for the season, but start making plans for your QB situation as if he will not return. |
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Palmer officially out Week 8
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Updated 10/22/2008 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Cincinnati QB Carson Palmer will miss another game in Week 8 at Houston. Palmer was held out of Wednesday's practice and definitely will not play against the Texans. Missing Sunday's game, Palmer will have missed four of his last five games for the Bengals. | Analysis: There are rumors that Palmer might wind up having Tommy John surgery, which would impact his next two seasons and possibly the rest of his career. Expect the Bengals to be very careful with Palmer in the short-term. Keep him benched for now. Cutting him for a quarterback or another player is not advised unless the player you would be picking up would surely help your team post more points. Palmer's upside is what's keeping him from being a drop at this point. |
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Palmer ruled out for Week 8
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Updated 10/20/2008 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Bengals head coach Marvin Lewis ruled out quarterback Carson Palmer for the team's Week 8 game Sunday in Houston. Palmer will rest his sore passing elbow for a second straight week. It's unclear whether he will play again this season. For now, Palmer is trying to see if the elbow heals with rest. If not, he has an option of having surgery. | Analysis: There are rumors that Palmer might wind up having Tommy John surgery, which would impact his next two seasons and possibly the rest of his career. Expect the Bengals to be very careful with Palmer in the short-term. Keep him benched for now. Cutting him for a quarterback or another player is not advised unless the player you would be picking up would surely help your team post more points. Palmer's upside is what's keeping him from being a drop at this point. |
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Palmer inactive for Week 7
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Updated 10/19/2008 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer (elbow) was inactive for Week 7 against Pittsburgh, as expected. Ryan Fitzpatrick got the start once again in his place. | Analysis: There are rumors that Palmer might wind up having Tommy John surgery, which would impact his next two seasons and possibly the rest of his career. Expect the Bengals to be very careful with Palmer in the short-term. Keep him benched for now. |
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Palmer could miss next two games
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Updated 10/19/2008 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: The Cincinnati Enquirer reports that Bengals RB Carson Palmer, who is out for Week 8 against the Steelers with an elbow injury, might miss the Week 9 game Oct. 26 at Houston also, Marvin Lewis said Friday after Bengals practice. The Bengals are at Houston on Oct. 26 before returning home to play Jacksonville on Nov. 2. Then they will have their bye Nov. 9. Ryan Fitzpatrick will make his third start Sunday in four weeks. | Analysis: Keep Palmer reserved against the Steelers. If he misses Week 9 also, don't be surprised if they keep him out through the bye week, if not longer. Right now, consider Palmer a No. 2 Fantasy option at best, but it sounds like his elbow injury could be a problem all season long. |
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Palmer officially out Week 7
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Updated 10/15/2008 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer did not practice on Wednesday and is officially out for Week 7 vs. the Steelers. | Analysis: There are rumors that Palmer might wind up having Tommy John surgery, which would impact his next two seasons and possibly the rest of his career. Expect the Bengals to be very careful with Palmer in the short-term, likely taking starts from him like they are in Week 7 against a very strong Steelers defense. Keep him benched for now. |
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Palmer won't play in Week 7
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Updated 10/13/2008 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer will miss another game because of his sore elbow on his right (throwing) arm. Coach Marvin Lewis said Monday that Ryan Fitzpatrick will start against the Steelers on Sunday, giving Palmer another week to rest his right elbow. It'll be the third game Palmer misses this season because of the injury. Palmer sat out last Sunday, then stayed in New York to be examined by Dr. David Altchek, who works with the New York Mets. Palmer was hoping that the second opinion he got from Altchek would be more encouraging and allow him to get back on the field. "I think the issue with (Palmer) is a lot more serious than playing this year," receiver Chad Ocho Cinco said. "We're talking about his career in general. If it means sitting out this year or play another 20 or who knows how long he'll be able to go, I think it'd be in his best interests to sit out." Receiver T.J. Houshmandzadeh agreed with Ocho Cinco that it would be best for the team long-term to rest Palmer for the remainder of the season. "I would agree with that," Houshmandzadeh said. "Whether that will happen, I'm not sure. Carson wants to play; he's a veteran. But it would be the smart thing to do." | Analysis: There are rumors that Palmer might wind up having Tommy John surgery, which would impact his next two seasons and possibly the rest of his career. Expect the Bengals to be very careful with Palmer in the short-term, likely taking starts from him like they are in Week 7 against a very strong Steelers defense. Keep him benched for now. |
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Palmer to see Mets doctor
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Updated 10/12/2008 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer will have his ailing elbow examined by a New York Mets team doctor. Palmer said after the Bengals lost 26-14 to the New York Jets on Sunday that he would remain in New York to be examined by Dr. David Altchek. Palmer was designated as the third quarterback for the game behind Ryan Fitzpatrick and Palmer's brother Jordan, the second game this season he has missed with the elbow injury. "I'll play whenever they give me clearance," said Palmer, who injured his elbow against the New York Giants three weeks ago, missed a game against the Browns, then played against Dallas last week. He said he had been told that his injury is the kind common to baseball pitchers, one reason he decided to consult Altchek. The Bengals host the Steelers next Sunday. | Analysis: Hopefully for Fantasy owners, Palmer will be OK for Week 7 against the Steelers. Keep an eye on what develops with him, but for now plan on being without Palmer in Week 7. |
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Palmer listed as emergency QB
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Updated 10/12/2008 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: The Bengals have opted to use Carson Palmer as the emergency third-string quarterback for Week 6's game against the Jets. Palmer played during a Week 5 loss to the Cowboys, but hardly practiced during the following week and head coach Marvin Lewis opted to start QB Ryan Fitzpatrick. | Analysis: We should only see Palmer in an emergency situation Week 6 against the Jets, so it's best to keep him reserved in Fantasy. He could be on a week-to-week situation, so continue to keep tabs on him leading up to Week 7 against the Steelers. The Bengals have had some offensive struggles in 2008 and Palmer has not met Fantasy expectations. He still has potential, but should be monitored in Fantasy before relying heavily on him. |
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Palmer won't start Sunday at Jets
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Updated 10/10/2008 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: The official team web site reports that Bengals QB Carson Palmer will not start Week 6 at the Jets with a right elbow injury. Head coach Marvin Lewis confirmed the news Friday but did not say whether or not Palmer will be the backup or emergency quarterback. Palmer is battling an elbow injury on his passing arm. "We're trying to get it not a week-to-week thing," Lewis said. "We want to get the thing calmed down so it doesn't give him any irritation or problems at all." Ryan Fitzpatrick will make his second start of the season in place of Palmer. | Analysis: Owners relying on Palmer this week must obviously go in another direction. Suitable replacements include ... well, anybody who is healthy and active as a quarterback. That is, anyone except Fitzpatrick, who doesn't have the arm or ability of Palmer. Matt Ryan and Jeff Garcia would fit the bill off the waiver wire. Keep Palmer benched, and don't lean on Fitzpatrick. |
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Palmer to rest elbow this week
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Updated 10/8/2008 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Bengals quarterback Carson Palmer will limit his throwing during practice this week to rest his sore elbow, hoping to be ready for the New York Jets on Sunday. Palmer strained his right elbow in a loss to the Giants in Week 3, when his arm was hit while he threw a pass. He sat out a 20-12 loss to Cleveland the following week, when backup Ryan Fitzpatrick threw three interceptions and fumbled. He didn't participate in passing drills the first two days of practice last week, giving the elbow time to heal. He threw on Friday and played in a 33-21 loss at Dallas that left the Bengals (0-5) at the bottom of the NFL. Palmer said his elbow came through that game without problem. He didn't fully participate in practice Wednesday. "Probably go with the same approach as last week and hopefully be ready to play," Palmer said Wednesday. "Throw as little as possible and let it rest as much as possible, and make a decision later in the week and see what the doctors say." | Analysis: Expect Palmer to play, but play it safe and come up with a backup plan in case he doesn't make the start in Week 6 at the Jets. He's a low-end No. 1/top-end No. 2 Fantasy QB for the game anyway, so other options should be considered. |
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Palmer to be examined on Wednesday
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Updated 10/8/2008 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: According to The Sports Xchange, Bengals QB Carson Palmer came through the Dallas game well, head coach Marvin Lewis said. He threw for 217 yards on 23-of-39 passing. Palmer had missed the Week 4 game against the Browns because of inflammation in his throwing elbow. He will be examined again Wednesday, Lewis said. | Analysis: Palmer looked fairly rusty but decent in Week 5 against the Cowboys. He should continue to get healthy and will be a decent Fantasy start in all leagues in Week 6 in New York against the Jets. |
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Palmer throws two TDs in return
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Updated 10/5/2008 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Cincinnati QB Carson Palmer returned after missing Week 4 against the Cowboys on Sunday and almost led the Bengals to victory. Cincy lost, however, as Palmer threw for 217 yards on 23-of-39 passing. He threw two touchdowns and one interception. Palmer hit T.J. Houshmandzadeh twice for TDs of 10 and 18 yards. | Analysis: Palmer looked fairly rusty but decent in Week 5 against the Cowboys. He should continue to get healthy and will be a decent Fantasy start in all leagues in Week 6 in New York against the Jets. |
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Palmer active for Week 5 in Dallas
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Updated 10/5/2008 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer is active and starting in Dallas in Week 5. | Analysis: Palmer is still an injury risk start in Week 5 in Dallas. He's active and if he's your guy it is safe to use him. That said, if you had another viable option, you might still want to go with them. |
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Palmer 'all systems go' Week 5
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Updated 10/3/2008 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: NFL.com reports Bengals QB Carson Palmer (right elbow) threw during practice Friday and made it through a full session. Palmer is listed as questionable on the injury report, but head coach Marvin Lewis said Palmer is "all systems are go" if he doesn't suffer any setbacks. "He did well. We'll see how he is in the morning," Lewis said. "If things continue as they have, I think (he will play Sunday)." | Analysis: Palmer, who missed Week 4 against the Browns, has held all week that he was going to play Sunday and it appears as though he is on track. This is still a situation you need to follow up until inactives just in case Palmer suffers a setback. Even if he starts, there is definitely some injury-risk involved for Fantasy owners. |
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Palmer takes some throws Thursday
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Updated 10/2/2008 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: The Cincinnati Enquirer reports that Bengals QB Carson Palmer threw from distances of up to 30 yards on Thursday. "(I) did all the run game stuff. They just don't want me throwing a whole lot," Palmer said. "I'll try to throw tomorrow and see what happens." | Analysis: Palmer reiterated he plans to play on Sunday, but the fact he's still not throwing fully on Thursday is not a good sign. Friday will be a big day for Palmer as his injured elbow will be tested fully. The Bengals likely will err on the side of caution and sit Palmer for another game Week 5. Fantasy owners should plan to go with healthier alternatives. Even if Palmer plays, he will be an injury-risk start. |
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Palmer still hopeful for Week 5
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Updated 10/1/2008 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Bengals quarterback Carson Palmer handed off during practice Wednesday but didn't participate in plays that called for a pass, part of the plan to help his sore elbow heal. Palmer sat out a 20-12 loss to Cleveland on Sunday with a sore elbow, hurt a week earlier in a loss to the Giants. Coach Marvin Lewis plans to wait until late in the week to decide whether Palmer will play on Sunday in Dallas. Backup Ryan Fitzpatrick ran most of the plays on offense Wednesday. He started against the Browns and threw three interceptions. Palmer thinks he can be ready to play against the Cowboys. "We'll see how Carson does through the week and what the plan of the medical staff is," coach Marvin Lewis said. "We'll just follow that course and see how it comes out." | Analysis: Palmer said the inflamed elbow is getting better. Although the injury is not considered serious, it could get worse if he tries to come back too quickly. He threw a football on Wednesday, though not in team drills. "You don't want to over-stress what I've got going on," Palmer said. "When you do, that's when you start either getting tendinitis or start tearing things and requiring surgery later on down the road. So the training staff's going to take this thing as slow as possible and definitely have a long-term mindset, and make sure we're not pushing it too fast." The Bengals likely will err on the side of caution and sit Palmer for another game Week 5. Fantasy owners should plan to go with healthier alternatives. Even if Palmer plays, he will be an injury-risk start. |
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Bengals QB status still in air
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Updated 10/1/2008 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer still doesn't know if Ryan Fitzpatrick will get the start in his place on Sunday. After the walkthrough before Wednesday's practice, Palmer indicated he's only participating in running plays as he rests his ailing right elbow that benched him last week against Cleveland. "Nothing's changed. I'm preparing to play. I'm expecting to play," he said. "I'll be a little bit limited in practice, but I'm getting as many reps as I can. It looks like it's going to come down to a decision later in the week. It's definitely getting better. It's progressing day-to-day. I just cross my fingers and keep praying and hope it keeps progressing." In the first part of Wednesday's practice, Palmer simulated a throwing motion in drills but he wasn't throwing the ball. | Analysis: Palmer still plans to play in Week 5, but the coaching staff in Cincy will have the final say and they apparently are leaning to giving their star QB one more week to recover from an elbow injury. Don't plan on using Fitzpatrick if he gets the call against Dallas, as the Cowboys can give even the best QB fits. A final decision on the starter won't be made until later in the week now, it seems. |
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Fitzpatrick looks like Week 5 starter
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Updated 9/30/2008 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: A quote from Bengals head coach Marvin Lewis on Tuesday seemed to indicate that QB Ryan Fitzpatrick would start again in Week 5 at Dallas. "If Ryan Fitzpatrick is the guy as we go forward this week, we go into it a little differently," coach Marvin Lewis said. "That's the way we'll have to approach it. More than likely, the coaches will have to prepare to play with Fitzpatrick, and everybody has to understand that. There will be some things that we can do differently, right from the outset." | Analysis: Carson Palmer said Monday he plans to play in Week 5, but the coaching staff in Cincy will have the final say and they apparently are leaning to giving their star QB one more week to recover from an elbow injury. Don't plan on using Fitzpatrick if he gets the call against Dallas, as the Cowboys can give even the best QB fits. A final decision on the starter won't be made until late in the week. |
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Palmer hopes to go Week 5
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Updated 9/28/2008 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Carson Palmer's sore elbow leaves the winless Bengals with another major worry. Palmer sat out a 20-12 loss to the Cleveland Browns on Sunday because of inflammation in his passing elbow, an injury that the team didn't reveal until late in the week. When he'll be able to play is hard to say. "It's not bad," said Palmer, who was listed as the emergency quarterback and watched from the sideline wearing a cap. "I'll probably be able to prepare this week." It's a major setback but not a surprise for the Bengals, who are 0-4 for the first time in six years. They've had a hard time protecting Palmer all year. Palmer broke his nose in the preseason, then sprained his left ankle in the second game of the season. He got his nose bloodied again in an overtime loss to the Giants last Sunday, and hurt his elbow when he was hit while making a throw. He finished the game, but the elbow became more tender as he threw during practice last the week. "It happens a lot," Palmer said. "Sometimes it takes a little while to come back. Hopefully it won't take too long." Coach Marvin Lewis told Palmer on Saturday night that he was going to sit out. "He's got an elbow that's inflamed," Lewis said. "It's better. It was precautionary to not let him play - against his wishes - and have him ready for next week and beyond." | Analysis: Keep an eye on Palmer's status for Week 5 at Dallas. If he plays, consider him a No. 2 Fantasy option, but there's a chance he could miss another game if his elbow bothers him. It would have been nice if Lewis informed everyone that Palmer would be out and helped Fantasy owners instead of waiting until Sunday morning. |
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Palmer out vs. Browns
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Updated 9/28/2008 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer (elbow) is out and instead is the No. 3 quarterback while backup Ryan Fitzpatrick is in for the Bengals against the Browns. Palmer surfaced on Friday's injury report with a sore elbow, didn't practice, and was listed as questionable. Palmer, who practiced Wednesday and Thursday, said Friday with the day of rest he would be "ready to roll." But his streak of 51 straight starts is over and Fitzpatrick is about ready to make his fourth NFL start and first since his rookie year of 2005. | Analysis: Keep Palmer reserved in all leagues for Week 4. He will not play against the Browns. Fitzpatrick could be a good replacement if you need to add a QB at the last minute. Consider Fitzpatrick a No. 2 Fantasy option most weeks. |
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Palmer questionable due to elbow
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Updated 9/26/2008 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: The Bengals listed QB Carson Palmer as questionable for Week 4 against the Browns after an elbow injury limited him in practice Friday. According to the Cincinnati Enquirer, Palmer experienced soreness and inflammation in his right elbow (throwing elbow) during the week. "It was just a rest day. I'm completely confident in what we're doing," Palmer said. "The doctors decided the best thing to do was to be rested and fully healthy for Sunday, and I'll be ready to roll on Sunday." He was sacked six times at the Giants. Said coach Marvin Lewis: "Carson has developed some carryover soreness from last week's game. He has told us he's going to be ready to play, but he is missing some practice reps, so he has to be listed on the injury report." | Analysis: This is obviously a situation worth monitoring because Palmer has a great matchup in Week 4 against the Browns. Palmer has passed for 1,236 yards, 13 touchdowns and eight interceptions in his past five games against the Browns. If Palmer starts, consider him a No. 1 Fantasy option. |
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Palmer has elbow injury
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Updated 9/26/2008 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer will be added Friday to the team's injury report as questionable with an elbow injury, reports the Cincinnati Enquirer. He will be 50-50 to play Sunday against the Browns. During the week, Palmer experienced soreness and inflammation in his right elbow (throwing elbow). "It was just a rest day. I'm completely confident in what we're doing," Palmer said. "The doctors decided the best thing to do was to be rested and fully healthy for Sunday, and I'll be ready to roll on Sunday." He was sacked six times at the Giants. Said coach Marvin Lewis: "Carson has developed some carryover soreness from last week's game. He has told us he's going to be ready to play, but he is missing some practice reps, so he has to be listed on the injury report." | Analysis: This is obviously a situation worth monitoring because Palmer has a great matchup in Week 4 against the Browns. Palmer has passed for 1,236 yards, 13 touchdowns and eight interceptions in his past five games against the Browns. If Palmer starts, consider him a No. 1 Fantasy option. |
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Palmer looks primed for good week
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Updated 9/24/2008 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Cincinnati QB Carson Palmer hasn't been good this season. Palmer has one touchdown and three picks in three games and has averaged just over 141 yards through the air. His Week 4 opponent, the Browns, rank just 18th against the pass and are allowing 202 yards passing per game. Add to that a solid history for Palmer against Cleveland, he threw seven touchdowns and four picks against them last season in two games, and Palmer could be in line for his most productive week. | Analysis: The Browns don't do a great job defending the pass and Palmer is looking for his breakout week. The stars look like they could be aligning for the former USC Trojan. You can expect an interception or two on Sunday, but you can also expect him to find the end zone, hopefully on multiple occasions. Palmer will finally be the starter you drafted in Week 4 so go ahead and use him as a No. 1 option. |
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Finally, Palmer is worth starting
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Updated 9/23/2008 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: It's been a tough three weeks for Carson Palmer's Fantasy owners, but Week 4 appears to be much different. Palmer and the Bengals are at home against the struggling Browns, and Palmer has owned them. In his last four games against his in-state rival, Palmer has totaled 1,144 yards (286 yards per game) and 12 touchdowns. He has added seven interceptions in those games. | Analysis: Palmer has been tepid at best this season, but with six quarterbacks on bye this week and the Bengals hosting a solid matchup, it's time to roll out the quarterback you likely drafted to be your starter. Consider him a No. 1 Fantasy QB this week. |
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Palmer looks better against Giants
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Updated 9/21/2008 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer threw for 286 yards and a touchdown in Week 3 at the Giants. He completed 27 of 39 passes and did not throw an interception. His 17-yard touchdown pass to T.J. Houshmandzadeh in the fourth quarter was his first touchdown pass of the season. | Analysis: Three weeks and just one touchdown for Carson Palmer? That reeks of a Fantasy bust, but not so fast, Fantasy owners. The offense showed signs of a resurgence against a tough Giants defense. They didn't look like the high-flying Bengals of the last few seasons, but Houshmandzadeh broke out for 12 catches and 146 yards and Chris Perry was able to run the ball with some efficiency. There is reason to hope that Palmer will still have a very productive Fantasy season and this game should buy him another start on your Fantasy team for a decent matchup in Week 4 against Cleveland. |
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Palmer (ankle) active against Giants
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Updated 9/21/2008 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer, who was listed as probable on the injury report with an ankle injury, will face the Giants in Week 3 at Giants Stadium. The Giants have allowed the third fewest passing yards of any defense that has played two games so far this season. They've allowed 258 yards (129.0 average) through the air and two touchdowns. They've recorded seven sacks (tied for third) and one interception. | Analysis: This isn't exactly what the doctor ordered for Cincinnati's struggling passing game. Palmer has the league's lowest passer rating at 37.1 with three interceptions and only 228 yards total and T.J. Houshmandzadeh and Chad Ocho Cinco have combined for 11 catches and 129 yards in two games. Consider Palmer a risky start for Week 3. On the bright side, his ankle injury isn't expected to keep him out of action. |
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Palmer to face tough Giants D
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Updated 9/18/2008 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer, who is listed as probable on the injury report with an ankle injury, will face the Giants in Week 3 at Giants Stadium. The Giants have allowed the third fewest passing yards of any defense that has played two games so far this season. They've allowed 258 yards (129.0 average) through the air and two touchdowns. They've recorded seven sacks (tied for third) and one interception. | Analysis: This isn't exactly what the doctor ordered for Cincinnati's struggling passing game. Palmer has the league's lowest passer rating at 37.1 with three interceptions and only 228 yards total and T.J. Houshmandzadeh and Chad Ocho Cinco have combined for 11 catches and 129 yards in two games. Consider Palmer a risky start for Week 3. On the bright side, his ankle injury isn't expected to keep him out of action. |
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Palmer practicing without limp
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Updated 9/17/2008 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Carson Palmer walked without a limp Wednesday, an indication that his sprained left ankle is doing fine. The quarterback's sense of optimism was intact as well. Give him one more week. The Cincinnati Bengals have run out of time to get their offense working. They're 0-2 heading into a game at the Giants on Sunday, one that will provide either a U-turn for their season or a plunge into the abyss. "It seems like it's the end of the world to a lot of people," Palmer said Wednesday. "This team has a lot of hope left. We have a lot to play for, a lot of pride. The Giants started 0-2 (last season). A lot can be done from 0-2." | Analysis: So far, the Bengals offense has gone nowhere. An offense that features a Pro Bowl MVP throwing to a pair of Pro Bowl receivers has reached the end zone only once, and that came on a running play. Palmer has the league's lowest passer rating at 37.1 with three interceptions and only 228 yards total. T.J. Houshmandzadeh and Chad Ocho Cinco have combined for 11 catches and 129 yards in two games. Palmer has been at the bull's-eye of it all. The offensive line's struggles have left him exposed to jarring hits. He broke his nose in the third preseason game when he was hit by two players, and sprained his left ankle in the first half of a 24-10 loss to Tennessee on Sunday when two pass rushers got to him again. The line knows it can't afford to let Palmer get beaten up by one of the NFL's top defenses, which has given up only 20 points in two games and already has seven sacks. It's the Giants' stingiest start to a season since 1952. Consider Palmer a No. 2 Fantasy QB for Week 2. It appears as though he will play. |
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Palmer sprained his ankle Sunday
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Updated 9/15/2008 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: The Cincinnati Enquirer reports that Bengals QB Carson Palmer sprained his ankle in a Week 2 loss to the Titans, but that he should be OK for Week 3 at the Giants. | Analysis: Palmer has been horrible the first two weeks of this season, but the weather on Sunday certainly had a lot to do with his poor numbers in Week 2. Things won't get any easier in Week 3 when Cincy travels to the Meadowlands, but Palmer remains a low-end No. 1 Fantasy QB in all formats. |
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Palmer horrible for second straight game
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Updated 9/14/2008 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer completed 16 of 27 passes for only 134 yards with no touchdowns and two interceptions in a Week 2 loss to the Titans. Palmer now has only 233 yards passing in his first two games of the season. | Analysis: The wind was whipping on Sunday afternoon in Cincy, but Palmer just didn't look like himself, missing several receivers by a number of yards. While both picks came late in the contest with the Bengals trying to come back from a 17-point deficit, both throws were way off target. Palmer stood on the sidelines at the end of the game as Ryan Fitzpatrick took over on the final drive. Palmer is still a No. 1 Fantasy QB in most formats, but you might want to bench him until he shows some signs of life. In Week 2, the Bengals play at the Giants. |
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Palmer likes to torch Titans
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Updated 9/11/2008 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: The Sports Xchange reports that, in three career games against Tennessee, Bengals QB Palmer is 79-for-107 passing for 802 yards, five touchdowns and two interceptions for a 102.6 passer rating. Cincinnati host the Titans in Week 2. | Analysis: Palmer was downright awful in Week 1, throwing for only 99 yards. Things should pick up in Week 2, but the Titans defense is pretty stout and Palmer will have to be on his game if he wants to keep his nice stats against them. He remains a No. 1 Fantasy QB simply because of his arm and the WRs at his disposal. |
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Palmer throws for less than 100
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Updated 9/7/2008 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Week 1 did not go according to plan for Bengals QB Carson Palmer. He was harrassed all day by the Ravens defense and was limited to 10 of 25 completions for 99 yards. He rushed three times for 15 yards, but did not score and threw an interception. He was also sacked twice. | Analysis: Give it up to the Ravens defense. They covered the Bengals receivers well and put pressure on Palmer. He didn't look comfortable in the pocket and his leading receiver -- T.J. Houshmandzadeh -- had just 44 yards. Palmer had just 194 yards in his 2007 debut against the Ravens, but still managed two scores and no turnovers. Different story in 2008. He will look for better results Week 2 against the Titans and remains a No. 1 Fantasy QB. |
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Palmer starting against Ravens
|
Updated 9/7/2008 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer (nose) is active and starting Week 1 at Baltimore. He was listed as probable on the injury report and practiced in full all week. | Analysis: Palmer will be wearing a protective visor on his facemask, although his broken nose isn't expected to be a problem. Palmer has completed 171 of 268 passes (63.8 percent) for 2,141 yards with 12 touchdowns vs. seven interceptions in his career against the Ravens. There are questions abound with Palmer this season thanks to a new RB corps, a suspect offensive line and injuries to both of his key WRs, but the fact remains he is one of the best 10 QBs in the league. Start him in the majority of formats for Week 1. |
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Nose won't stop QB Palmer
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Updated 9/5/2008 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Carson Palmer will have a new look in the Bengals' season opener at Baltimore. For the first time in his career, he'll be wearing a protective visor on his facemask. Palmer broke his nose in the Bengals' third preseason game and had surgery to realign the nose, and wore a protective brace across the bridge of his nose for a week. The brace is gone, but the nose hasn't completely healed, so he'll wear a clear visor. "The doctors are probably going to tell me I have to wear it for a little bit, so get used to that," Palmer said. | Analysis: Palmer has completed 171 of 268 passes (63.8 percent) for 2,141 yards with 12 touchdowns vs. seven interceptions in his career against the Ravens. There are questions abound with Palmer this season thanks to a new RB corps, a suspect offensive line and injuries to both of his key WRs, but the fact remains he is one of the best 10 QBs in the league. Start him in the majority of formats for Week 1. |
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Palmer to wear clear visor
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Updated 9/4/2008 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Carson Palmer will have a new look in the Bengals' season opener at Baltimore. For the first time in his career, he'll be wearing a protective visor on his facemask. Palmer broke his nose in the Bengals' third preseason game. He had surgery to realign the nose, and wore a protective brace across the bridge of his nose for a week. The brace is gone, but the nose hasn't completely healed, so he'll wear a clear visor. "The doctors are probably going to tell me I have to wear it for a little bit, so get used to that," Palmer said. | Analysis: Palmer's voice still has a bit of a nasal sound, but he says his nose is feeling good. "It's not as susceptible to being re-broken now that it's had a little over a week to heal," he said. "So it's doing great. I can breathe. I can play." Palmer has completed 171 of 268 passes (63.8 percent) for 2,141 yards with 12 touchdowns vs. seven interceptions in his career against the Ravens. There are questions abound with Palmer this season thanks to his RB leaving and injuries to both of his key WRs, but the fact remains he is one of the best five or six QBs in the league. Start him in the majority of formats for Week 1. |
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Palmer only average vs. Ravens
|
Updated 9/2/2008 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Cincinnati QB Carson Palmer has completed 171 of 268 passes (63.8 percent) for 2,141 yards with 12 touchdowns vs. 7 interceptions in his career against the Ravens. The Bengals take on Baltimore in Week 1. | Analysis: There are questions abound with Palmer this season thanks to his RB leaving and injuries to both of his key WRs, but the fact remains he is one of the best five or six QBs in the league. Start him in the majority of formats for Week 1. |
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Palmer fine with broken nose
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Updated 8/27/2008 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: QB Carson Palmer will skip Cincinnati's last preseason game, resting his broken nose. Palmer didn't participate in practice again Tuesday, watching while the rest of the team got ready for its game Thursday night in Indianapolis. Palmer broke his nose and cut his lip on a sack Saturday night during a 13-0 loss to New Orleans. Palmer said he probably would have sat out the final preseason game even if he hadn't broken his nose. He expects to be ready for the opener at Baltimore on Sept. 7. "I mean, I'm healthy, I could play, (it's) just not in the cards this week, I think mainly because we played Saturday and turn around and play again on Thursday," said Palmer, who had a protective brace on his nose and packing in his left nostril. "I just want to be 100 percent and healthy and feeling great going into the Baltimore game." | Analysis: Palmer remains a No. 1 Fantasy QB worth a pick between Rounds 5 and 6, but be careful with him this year. With Chad Johnson (shoulder) and T.J. Houshmandzadeh (hamstring) hurt coming into the season, Palmer could be without his top two weapons or have them not at 100 percent. Still, Palmer will make it work and should be worth starting in all leagues. |
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Palmer out vs. Colts
|
Updated 8/25/2008 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer has a broken nose and might not play in the last preseason game Thursday night at Indianapolis, reports the Cincinnati Enquirer. Palmer, who sustained a bloody nose and cut lip Saturday night when sacked in the loss to New Orleans, had a procedure done to align a cracked bone in his nose and would be listed as questionable for the Colts. Look for Ryan Fitzpatrick to start at quarterback. But coach Marvin Lewis said Palmer will not even be listed on the injury report for the regular-season opener Sept. 7 at Baltimore. In other words, Palmer will start against the Ravens. But now Palmer's best receiver, Chad Johnson could have a torn labrum. Reports are that Johnson's shoulder injury is worse than originally expected. | Analysis: In three preseason games, Palmer completed 22-of-38 passes (57.9 pct.) for 188 yards (4.9 avg.) with a touchdown and an interception. You can tell that he didn't play much of the preseason with T.J. Houshmandzadeh (hamstring) and Johnson, and if Johnson misses an extended amount of time, that will hurt Palmer's value. Palmer's track record is solid -- he has back-to-back 4,000-yard seasons with 25-plus TDs in each of the last three -- but the 2008 campaign is starting to look rough for Cincinnati with Johnson, Housh and Palmer all already banged up. Palmer remains a No. 1 Fantasy QB worth a pick between Rounds 5 and 6, but try to draft a good backup for him just in case his 2008 goes awry. |
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Palmer suffers broken nose
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Updated 8/24/2008 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer broke his nose during Saturday night's preseason game against the Saints, but coach Marvin Lewis said he should be ready for the regular season opener. Lewis said in a statement Sunday that Palmer had a small crack in one of his nose bones and it took doctors about 10 minutes to put it back in place. The team said fourth-year quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick will make his first Bengals preseason start if Palmer is unable to play. | Analysis: In three preseason games, Palmer completed 22-of-38 passes (57.9 pct.) for 188 yards (4.9 avg.) with a touchdown and an interception. You can tell that he didn't play much of the preseason with T.J. Houshmandzadeh and Chad Johnson. Palmer's track record is solid -- he has back-to-back 4,000-yard seasons with 25-plus TDs in each of the last three -- but the 2008 campaign is starting to look rough for Cincinnati with Johnson, Housh and Palmer all already banged up. Palmer remains a No. 1 Fantasy QB worth a pick between Rounds 5 and 6, but try to draft a good backup for him just in case his 2008 goes awry. |
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Palmer leaves with bloody nose, lip
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Updated 8/23/2008 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Bengals quarterback Carson Palmer got roughed up again during a preseason game against the New Orleans Saints on Saturday night, leaving late in the first half with a bloody nose and a cut lip. Palmer was sacked three times in the first half, the last on a safety blitz by Kevin Kaesviharn with 2 seconds left. He walked off the field with blood spilling down the front of his face, then headed to the locker room with a towel covering his head. He didn't return for the second half. Palmer got knocked to the ground five times during a 27-10 loss to Detroit a week earlier. He was 11-of-16 against the Saints for 105 yards, working with a receiving corps missing Pro Bowl receivers T.J. Houshmandzadeh and Chad Johnson due to injury. Two of their backups also were hurt in the week leading up to the game. The Bengals crossed midfield just once - and by only 1 yard - on six possessions in the first half. They managed only four first downs and 94 total yards while falling behind 10-0. | Analysis: Palmer is fine albeit probably tired of taking a beating. Palmer should be a lock for over 4,000 yards and gets a nudge in touchdown production with Chris Henry's re-arrival. He's still obviously a No. 1 Fantasy passer worth a pick between Rounds 4 and 6. |
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Palmer benefits from Henry's return
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Updated 8/20/2008 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: QB Carson Palmer's receiving corps got a little better with the Bengals' re-signing WR Chris Henry. Now Palmer has a good third receiver to go to (and target deep) in addition to T.J. Houshmandzadeh and Chad Johnson. | Analysis: Palmer should be a lock for over 4,000 yards and gets a nudge in touchdown production with Henry's re-arrival. Considering Derek Anderson's recent concussion, Palmer now moves slightly ahead in the QB rankings. He's still obviously a No. 1 Fantasy passer worth a pick between Rounds 4 and 6. |
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Palmer struggles with few options
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Updated 8/17/2008 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Carson Palmer didn't have many receiving options in Sunday's preseason game against the Lions and that may have attributed to his poor performance. With T.J. Houshmandzadeh already out, Chad Johnson was injured Sunday early when he attempted to catch a Palmer pass and landed awkwardly on his shoulder. That ball ended up being intercepted and Palmer finished a short night by going 6-of-13 for 50 yards and the pick. | Analysis: We wouldn't worry about Palmer's Fantasy stats in 2008 except for the fact that his receivers are all banged up. We expect Johnson and Houshmandzadeh to be ready for the regular season, however, and Palmer remains an elite No. 1 Fantasy QB. |
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Palmer leads a sluggish offense
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Updated 8/12/2008 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Playing without running back Rudi Johnson and wide receiver T.J. Houshmandzadeh, Cincinnati didn't gain a first down until early in the second quarter during Monday's preseason game against the Packers. QB Carson Palmer finished the game 5-for-9 for 33 yards with a touchdown, connecting with tight end Ben Utecht for a 14-yard score early in the second quarter. | Analysis: Fantasy owners shouldn't get overly concerned with Palmer's performance Monday. He did rebound after a slow first quarter to throw a touchdown, but missing two key offensive components didn't help. The Bengals certainly don't want their star quarterback getting hurt, so like most NFL teams, the Bengals are going to limit his touches throughout the preseason. That doesn't change the fact that Palmer remains an elite Fantasy option in 2008. Consider him a No. 1 Fantasy QB. |
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Palmer to take 10-12 snaps Monday night
|
Updated 8/6/2008 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: The Bengals team site reports QB Carson Palmer and the first offense figure to get somewhere between 10 to 12 snaps to start Monday night's preseason opener in Green Bay. | Analysis: The Bengals certainly don't want their star quarterback getting hurt, so like most NFL teams, are going to limit his touches throughout the preseason. That doesn't change the fact that Palmer remains an elite Fantasy option in 2008. Consider him a No. 1 Fantasy QB. |
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Palmer has 'no hard feelings'
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Updated 7/27/2008 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Receiver Chad Johnson had nothing to say when he reported for training camp Sunday, ending the Cincinnati Bengals' offseason drama with a pillow under his arm and a leave-me-alone look on his face. Now, the Bengals can try to move on. By showing up on time and without complaint, the Pro Bowl receiver brought his teammates some relief from his failed attempts to get traded. Johnson was criticized last season after he berated quarterback Carson Palmer on the sideline following an interception during a loss to New England. As it turned out, the interception was Johnson's fault -- he ran the wrong route. | Analysis: Palmer was gracious Sunday when discussing his relationship with the receiver, who holds or shares nine team records. He had 1,440 yards on catches last season, a club record. "There's nothing to mend," Palmer said. "There's never been any hard feelings between the two of us. He has his stance and whether I feel the same or feel different, it doesn't matter. We're teammates and we've been a great tandem and hopefully we'll continue to be a great tandem for years to come." Palmer is only going to benefit since Johnson and T.J. Houshmandzadeh are both in camp on time. Look for Palmer to remain an elite Fantasy option in 2008 and consider him a No. 1 Fantasy QB. |
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Palmer takes hold of team
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Updated 6/10/2008 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer told the team's web site he still hasn't reached his ceiling as a quarterback. He also isn't concerned about what's going to happen with WR Chad Johnson. "I have no idea what's going to happen," Palmer said of Johnson reporting to Thursday's upcoming minicamp. "I like where we're at. Hopefully he comes in and fits in with what we've created here." When pressed on the subject, Palmer added: "What he's not going to do is come in and break apart what we have going right now. That sure as hell is not going to happen." | Analysis: Palmer will benefit if Johnson shows up, but it won't be the end of the world for Palmer if Johnson's not there. He still has T.J. Houshmandzadeh and some younger options in Jerome Simpson and Andre Caldwell. Look for Palmer to remain an elite Fantasy option in 2008 and consider him a No. 1 Fantasy QB. |
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Palmer missing Johnson, Housh
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Updated 5/14/2008 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: The Bengals might need to run more in 2008. Coach Marvin Lewis has said he wants to rely less on the passing game and more on the ground attack, reports the Cincinnati Enquirer. The Bengals had just four wide receivers - Antonio Chatman, Doug Gabriel, Glenn Holt and Marcus Maxwell - on the field at Tuesday's minicamp. Rookie players, including second- and third-round picks Jerome Simpson and Andre Caldwell - can't report for offseason practices until Friday. The Bengals will have two more practices without the rookies but a total of nine more beginning next week and continuing at a pace of three a week until June. Starters Chad Johnson and T.J. Houshmandzadeh did not attend the voluntary practice Tuesday. Johnson said he will not report, though he has four years remaining on his contract. Houshmandzadeh is doing his offseason training at home in California, which he did a year ago. "We're definitely missing valuable time," QB Carson Palmer said. "We'll get to work whenever they get here. ... The guys who are here are getting valuable experience." | Analysis: As expected, Johnson and Houshmandzadeh will remain absent, possibly until or including training camp. That will hurt Palmer heading into 2008, although not much. Still consider Palmer a No. 1 Fantasy option and one of the top quarterbacks this season. Housmandzadeh is a No. 1 WR, especially heading into a contract year. Johnson has slipped to a No. 2 option and could continue to slide if he is serious about being a holdout. |
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Palmer has career highs and lows
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Updated 1/18/2008 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer set a new career-high in yards with 4,131 in 2007. He also set a new career-high in interceptions with 20. Palmer also threw for 26 touchdowns. It was a frustrating year for Palmer, who expressed that following the season. Coach Marvin Lewis said he understands what Palmer is dealing with and plans to make things better for him in 2008. "As I said at the end of the year and our quarterback indicated to (the media), we weren't satisfied," Lewis said in the Cincinnati Enquirer. "He and I talked the Friday before the Miami game, and we're not satisfied. He and I together will do everything we can to fix it, along with everybody else in this building. He let it go. That's the way it is. That guy, he plays. As I told him, when we got started with him, you put yourself back in position where you play football the way you can play, you're going to win a lot of football games, don't lose the game. We got away from it. He felt like he had so much on his shoulders that he didn't (play perfectly), we'd lose the game, and you paint yourself into the corner." | Analysis: Look for Palmer to get back to his stellar play in 2008. He set a career-high for attempts also with 575, which is not something the Bengals want to do. Palmer should still be one of the first five quarterbacks drafted in most leagues, and consider him a No. 1 option in 2008. |
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Carson Palmer calls for change
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Updated 1/2/2008 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Bengals.com reports that QB Carson Palmer left the team's locker room for the last time this season on Monday, but wasn't quiet. Saying that he felt like he was 34 (he just turned 28) and sick to his stomach, Palmer suggested that the team find new coaches to rejuvenate the players. Asked if the current coaches could do it, Palmer said, "I don't think so. ... I don't make those decisions. I play quarterback." Palmer added that the team needed discipline, something all the playoff teams had. | Analysis: Palmer finished the season with 4,131 yards to break his mark of 4,035 set last season. His 373 completions were 28 more than he had last season in setting the franchise record, and he did it on 575 attempts, the second-most since John Stofa took the first official snap for the Bengals in a game in 1968. But Palmer had a down year in 2007 otherwise, throwing 26 touchdowns (he averaged 30 over his last two seasons) with 20 interceptions (a career-high). Assuming his supporting cast remains the same -- especially at wide receiver -- Palmer will still be considered a No. 1 Fantasy QB in 2008, albeit out of the top three. |
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Palmer finishes with good outing
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Updated 12/31/2007 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer completed 23 of 32 passes for 316 yards, three touchdowns and one interception Sunday at Miami while compiling a passer rating of 121.4. It was his highest passer rating of the season and just the fifth time he had a rating above 100 all season. He finished the season with 4,131 yards to break his mark of 4,035 set last season. His 373 completions were 28 more than he had last season in setting the franchise record and he did it on 575 attempts, the second-most since John Stofa took the first official snap for the Bengals in a game in 1968. | Analysis: Palmer had a down year in 2007, but he will return next year as a top Fantasy QB. Look for a solid year in 2008 and consider Palmer a No. 1 Fantasy QB. |
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Palmer throws three TDs in finale
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Updated 12/30/2007 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer threw for 316 yards with three touchdowns and one interception as Cincinnati finished their season with a 38-25 win over the Dolphins in Miami. | Analysis: We had Palmer ranked high among Fantasy QBs for Week 17, but we didn't expect over 300 yards against a Dolphins pass defense that has allowed the least amount of yards through the air since Week 8. The performance was his first multi-touchdown outing in five December games, but look for Palmer to bounce back nicely next season. |
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Palmer should smack Fins around
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Updated 12/28/2007 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: The Dolphins pass defense may be ranked fourth in the league, but they've given up 25 scores, tied for fourth-most in the NFL. It's that very Dolphins defense that will host Carson Palmer in Week 17. Palmer's numbers have been way off over the last several weeks, but with his 2007 ending on Sunday, he should look to attack a beaten up and ineffective Dolphins secondary. | Analysis: Expect Palmer to be good for one last outing. He's a No. 1 Fantasy QB in Week 17. |
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Palmer has one TD, two INTs
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Updated 12/23/2007 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer was 11-of-21 passing for 115 yards, one touchdown and two interceptions Sunday against the Browns. | Analysis: Palmer has struggled down the stretch and should have taken advantage of this matchup. Palmer will look to finish the season strong in Week 17 at Miami, so consider Palmer a low-end No. 1 option. |
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Flurries, wind expected in Cincinnati
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Updated 12/23/2007 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: The Weather Channel and CBS folks on the scene in Cincinnati report that flurries are expected to join strong, blustery winds that will impact the Browns-Bengals Week 16 game. Winds are expected to be between 21 and 33 m.p.h. | Analysis: Think twice before starting Browns and Bengals quarterbacks and receivers (and kickers) as the wind will play havoc with the ball (remember last week's Browns game?). Likewise, expect a lot of work from the Browns and Bengals' running backs this week. |
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Weather could limit Palmer
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Updated 12/19/2007 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: In seven career games vs. Cleveland, Bengals QB Carson Palmer has completed 163 of 248 passes for 1,800 yards (257.1 a game) with 19 touchdowns and 11 interceptions. In their meeting earlier this season, Palmer threw for 401 yards and six touchdowns, but he has only six touchdowns in his last five games combined coming into Week 16. | Analysis: Unfortunately for Palmer's owners, you should probably ignore his monster outing from Week 2 when trying set your lineup for Week 16, as the weather in Cincy on Sunday isn't expected to be conducive for a passing game. Check the weather Sunday morning and if things look grim for Palmer, consider starting another decent QB with better playing conditions -- if you have one that is. If not, start Palmer as a low-end No. 1 Fantasy QB and hope for the best. |
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Milestone throw Palmer's only TD
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Updated 12/16/2007 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer threw his 100th touchdown pass Week 15 at San Francisco, a 52-yard strike to Chris Henry in the first half, to become the fifth-fastest passer in NFL history to reach the mark. He finished 19-for-31 passing for 251 yards and also ran twice for one yard. | Analysis: Fantasy owners would have liked more than one touchdown pass from a big-ticket player like Palmer, but he hadn't given them any over the last two weeks. As a whole, the Bengals offense is slumping right now, but Palmer and the bunch might find a cure for what ails them in Week 16 against the Browns. Keep Palmer active as a No. 1 Fantasy QB for the potentially high-scoring affair. |
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Palmer in touchdown slump
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Updated 12/11/2007 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer has gone back-to-back games without a touchdown for the first time since his second and third career starts back in 2004. However, in 13 career games vs. the NFC, Palmer has thrown 25 touchdowns vs. 15 interceptions. The Bengals play at San Francisco in Week 15. | Analysis: Palmer has been playing in some poor weather conditions over the last couple of weeks, but the forecast is for partly cloudy on Saturday in San Francisco, so Palmer shouldn't encounter too many problems in Week 15. His Fantasy owners who are still alive will be hoping this is the week Palmer finally breaks out of his funk. |
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Palmer tamed ... by the Rams?!
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Updated 12/9/2007 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Expected to thrash St. Louis, Bengals QB Carson Palmer completed 21-of-29 passes for just 189 yards with no touchdowns and two interceptions vs. the Rams in Week 14. The game was played in the rain, and the Bengals were able to run the ball well (33 planned runs by Cincy). A steady, sometimes driving rain on a 38-degree afternoon made it tough to throw, catch or hold onto the slick ball. "It was tough," said Palmer. "We were expecting a light drizzle, but it was pouring. I'm just thankful it let up at the end and gave both teams a chance to throw the ball." | Analysis: Palmer's big arm has escaped him of late, costing him and his receivers big Fantasy stats in the process. Assuming he doesn't play in poor weather again next week, Palmer should have a good game at San Francisco in Week 15. |
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Rebound coming for Carson Palmer?
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Updated 12/5/2007 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Three weeks ago, Carson Palmer threw four interceptions in a Bengals loss to the Cardinals. He responded with a three-TD win over Tennessee. Last week, Palmer had another stinker, failing to throw a touchdown at Pittsburgh. The Bengals played on a muddy field, slowing down the speed of the game, which Palmer admitted later to not accounting for. Palmer is expected to rebound once again in Week 14 when the Rams come to Cincy. St. Louis has allowed 17 passing touchdowns this season and at least two passing scores in four of their last six games. | Analysis: Palmer should feast on the Rams' secondary in Week 14. Start him without any reservations in the coming week. |
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Carson Palmer a disaster Week 13
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Updated 12/3/2007 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer had one of his more forgettable games Week 13 at Pittsburgh. He completed only 17 of 44 passes for 183 yards, going without a touchdown or an interception. An off-and-on rain no doubt hindered his throwing, as several of his passes uncharacteristically sailed on him. He also ran twice for minus two yards. | Analysis: Hey, at least he didn't turn the ball over. Palmer had thrown five touchdown passes in his last two games, but he has underperformed a bit from a Fantasy perspective this season. We still say he's an advisable start more often than not, though, and he has a great matchup Week 14 against the Rams. |
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Palmer to be a hit in Pitt?
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Updated 11/29/2007 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: In his past two games vs. Pittsburgh, Bengals QB Carson Palmer has completed 43 of 69 passes for 456 yards with three touchdowns and no interceptions. In the earlier meeting this season, Palmer was 23-of-31 for 205 and a score. | Analysis: Palmer will likely have to deal with rain, cold temperatures and a questionable playing surface in Pittsburgh on Sunday, not to mention a ridiculously tough Steelers defense. Palmer is a very risky play in Week 13, but if you drafted him and are in a playoff race, you're not likely to bench him at this point. Consider him a low-end No. 1 Fantasy QB, but if you're lucky enough to have a QB with better potential this week, then go ahead and bench Palmer. |
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Palmer throttles Titans for 3 TDs
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Updated 11/25/2007 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer completed 32-of-38 passes for 283 yards for three touchdowns vs. Tennessee in Week 12. Palmer did throw one pick in the game. He had a high completion percentage for much of the game and was locked in on Chad Johnson, who caught a dozen of Palmer's passes. | Analysis: Palmer's played consistently well this season even though he hasn't posted Brady-esque numbers week in and week out. With over 3,000 yards and 21 passing touchdowns already this season, expect Palmer to keep his foot on the gas at Pittsburgh in Week 13. |
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Palmer faces 'Titanic' matchup
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Updated 11/21/2007 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: It used to be bad news when a quarterback took on the Titans thanks to DT Albert Haynesworth and CB Nick Harper. But those players have missed time, and in the last two weeks, quarterbacks opposing the Titans have totaled three passing scores. That's peanuts compared to what Carson Palmer and the Bengals are capable of. Palmer has thrown for at least 270 yards in each of his last three games with four total touchdowns. The Bengals host the Titans in Week 12. | Analysis: Assuming Haynesworth and Harper are still out (and WR T.J. Houshmandzadeh is in), Palmer should find a way to post solid stats at home in Week 12. Continue to treat him as a No. 1 Fantasy QB worthy of starting in all leagues. |
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Palmer has mixed day in loss
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Updated 11/18/2007 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer became the first QB in 14 games to throw for over 300 yards on the Cardinals in Cincinnati's 35-27 loss to Arizona in Week 11. He finished with 329 yards and two touchdowns, but also threw four interceptions. He also ran twice for negative-one yard. | Analysis: Palmer now has 18 touchdowns and 14 interceptions this season, which is pretty pathetic for him when you consider he only had 13 picks all last year. Most of you likely spent a high draft on the former USC Trojan, so you won't be benching him at any point this season, especially with the weapons at his disposal. Feel free to start him in almost every formats against the Titans in Week 12. |
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Palmer to rebound vs. Cardinals?
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Updated 11/13/2007 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: In Week 11, Carson Palmer and the Bengals host the Cardinals in what should be a classic shootout between two teams with strong offenses and suspect defenses. Although the Cardinals pass defense ranks 10th in the NFL, they have allowed 11 passing touchdowns this season. On the road this season, Arizona's been pretty good against the pass, but there's a reason for it: Arizona has played road games against the 49ers, Ravens, Redskins and Buccaneers -- four teams with limited pass offenses. When Arizona played at St. Louis, a pass-oriented team, with Gus Frerotte at quarterback, the Rams threw three touchdowns. | Analysis: With the Bengals' passing offense taking a break last week, look for Cincinnati to bounce back at the expense of the Cardinals, who gave up two touchdowns last week to the Lions at their place. Palmer remains a must-start in all Fantasy formats. |
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Palmer has no touchdowns
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Updated 11/11/2007 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer was 23-of-34 passing for 271 yards, no touchdowns and no interceptions Sunday against the Ravens. He also had two carries for minus-2 yards. | Analysis: Palmer didn't throw any touchdowns, which hurt Fantasy owners. Look for Palmer to bounce back in Week 11 against Arizona. Consider Palmer a No. 1 option. |
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Palmer looks to erase memories at Bal
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Updated 11/9/2007 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: In his last game at Baltimore, Bengals QB Carson Palmer completed only 12 of 26 passes for 194 yards with one touchdown and two interceptions in a 26-20 loss. The two teams meet for the second time this season in Week 10. | Analysis: Palmer has been OK this season, but he really hasn't shined as all his owners expected him to. He has only gone over the 250-yard passing mark four times this season and Baltimore's defense ranks 10th in the league in passing yards allowed. Still, Palmer remains a nice Fantasy QB option with T.J. Houshmandzadeh and Chad Johnson at his disposal and is a top-five option in Week 10. |
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Palmer throws for two touchdowns in loss
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Updated 11/4/2007 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer threw for 271 yards with two touchdowns and an interception on 29-of-39 passing in Cincinnati's 33-21 loss to the Bills in Week 9. He hit 11 different receivers in the game. | Analysis: Palmer's stats were pretty good as usual in Week 9, but he would surely trade all his touchdowns for wins at this point. Palmer remains one of the elite Fantasy QBs in the league and is a must-start against the Ravens in Week 10. |
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Palmer seeking eighth in a row
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Updated 11/1/2007 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Cincinnati QB Carson Palmer will head to Buffalo this week looking for his eighth straight game with a touchdown pass to open the season. | Analysis: As much as Palmer has been a decent Fantasy option this year, his team has only been decent at losing. He has only thrown for over 235 yards in one of his last four games, but has a very appetizing matchup in the Bills, who rank 29th in stopping the pass. As per usual, he ranks third this week behind Tom Brady and Peyton Manning, and is a must-start in all leagues. |
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Palmer has quiet day
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Updated 10/28/2007 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer was 23-of-31 passing for 205 yards and one touchdown Sunday against the Steelers. He also had one carry for 2 yards. | Analysis: Palmer is a No. 1 QB and should look to have a dominant game Week 9 at Buffalo. Consider Palmer a great start against the Bills. |
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Palmer great recently vs. Pittsburgh
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Updated 10/25/2007 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer has thrown nine touchdowns vs. only two interceptions in his last three meetings vs. the Steelers. The division rivals play each other in Week 8. | Analysis: Palmer has thrown at least one touchdown in every game this season, but has also thrown nine picks, which will not please his owners in leagues that punish interceptions. Still, he's the third-best QB in the league by quite a margin over his chasers and should start in every league in Week 8. |
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Palmer throws one touchdown
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Updated 10/21/2007 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer was 14-of-21 passing for 226 yards, one touchdown and one interception Sunday against the Jets. | Analysis: Palmer is a No. 1 QB and should be considered a must-start in all leagues. He has a tough matchup against the Steelers in Week 8, but you can't bench Palmer because he's too good. |
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Palmer apologizes for outbursts
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Updated 10/18/2007 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Carson Palmer is sorry. Sorry that he blew up at receiver Chad Johnson for running the wrong route. Sorry that he's lost his cool during the Cincinnati Bengals' awful start. Sorry that his easygoing temperament has failed him on the field. Not that anyone blames him. The Pro Bowl MVP has vented his anger in the last two games, something quite out of character for the laid-back quarterback from California. A 1-4 start will do that. "I think everybody's a little bit on edge around here," Palmer said. "We have boards in the offensive and defensive rooms, and every time you look up at them and see our production and our record there, you're just naturally on edge because you have such high expectations. I have lost my cool a couple of times, and I apologize for that. I'll try to contain myself and be calm." | Analysis: Usually, Palmer is the club's voice of reason during tough times. When things go bad, he acknowledges the problems and accepts a bigger share of the blame than necessary. When teammates squabble, he tries to restore the peace. That has been a big reason why he has been so successful in his career. He has kept his cool in high-pressure situations. Despite a less than stellar start by Palmer's standards, he heads into Week 7 against the Jets as a must-start Fantasy option. Playing against the No. 27 ranked passing defense might just put him on the right track. |
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Chiefs defense pummels Palmer
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Updated 10/14/2007 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer had a decent passing day Week 6 at Kansas City, completing 26 of 43 passes for 320 yards. However, playing without right tackle Willie Anderson (knee injury) and left tackle Levi Jones (benching), Palmer never got comfortable in the pocket as the Chiefs threw him to the turf five times. He did connect on two touchdown passes -- a 42-yard strike to T.J. Houshmandzadeh in the first quarter and a 30-yarder to Houshmandzadeh in the fourth -- but he also threw two interceptions and lost a fumble. He ran once for two yards. | Analysis: Palmer remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues as he still managed to recover late Sunday from an otherwise unsatisfactory statistical performance. The Jets come to town in Week 7, and they entered Week 6 with the 25th-ranked pass defense. |
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Palmer to let play do the shouting?
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Updated 10/11/2007 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer has had a bye week off to cool down from his shouting match with WR Chad Johnson in Week 4 and will be facing a tough Chiefs passing defense in Week 6. In last season's meeting between the two teams, Palmer completed 13 of 19 passes for 127 yards with no touchdowns or interceptions. | Analysis: Palmer will have a new right tackle on Sunday in the form of Stacy Andrews, as Willie Anderson has been ruled out with a knee injury. Andrews started the first three games this season at left guard and Palmer isn't worried about the switch, according to the Cincinnati Enquirer. "I'm as confident as anyone in Stacy," Palmer, who is our second-ranked QB for Week 6, said. |
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QB Palmer posts 234 yards, TD
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Updated 10/2/2007 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Carson Palmer completed 21-of-35 passes for 234 yards, one touchdown and two interceptions in Week 4 against the Patriots. He seemed to be frustrated most of the evening and even had an animated conversation with receiver Chad Johnson to end the first half. "I made a mistake," said Palmer. "I got on Chad, but I made a mistake. I lost my cool. I threw a ball I shouldn't have thrown." | Analysis: The Bengals will have two weeks to get it together and try and rebound in Week 6 at Kansas City once they return from their bye. Despite below average numbers by his standards in Week 4, he remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues. |
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Palmer finding his stars
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Updated 9/28/2007 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: This year, Bengals QB Carson Palmer has thrown 54 of his 80 completions and seven of his nine touchdowns to WRs Chad Johnson (25 catches and three TDs) and T.J. Houshmandzadeh(29 catches and four TDs). | Analysis: One of Palmer's touchdown passes went to Rudi Johnson in Week 2. With Rudi Johnson (hamstring) out against the Patriots, expect Palmer to have throw more passes. He is a No. 1 Fantasy QB. |
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Another 300-yard game for Palmer
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Updated 9/23/2007 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer completed 27-of-43 passes for 342 yards, but managed just one touchdown, two interceptions and minus-1 yard on the ground at Seattle in Week 3. The Bengals had four turnovers -- two by Palmer and two by his receivers, though only one came on an offensive play. Palmer's string of consecutive games with at least two touchdowns ended at four. | Analysis: Palmer was sacked twice despite playing behind an O-line that was tooled with throughout the game. Fantasy owners should be OK with Palmer's performance this week, but next week's game vs. New England could be a much different story. Still, he's worth starting in all leagues. |
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Palmer dominates NFC teams
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Updated 9/21/2007 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: In his 10 career starts against teams from the NFC, Bengals QB Carson Palmer is 8-2 all-time, with the two losses coming in his last four games against the conference. In his 10 starts, he averaged 239.7 yards, 2.2 touchdowns and 0.7 interceptions. | Analysis: It's unlikely that Palmer will throw for six touchdowns this week against the Seahawks like he did in Week 2 against the Browns, but he should have a nice outing in the Northwest. He remains a must-start in all leagues. |
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Palmer throws six touchdowns in loss
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Updated 9/16/2007 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer was 33-of-50 for 401 yards and threw six touchdowns and two interceptions in Cincinnati's 51-45 loss to the Cleveland Browns in Week 2. | Analysis: Palmer was always going to be a must-start against the Browns, but not many people would have guessed he would put up such monster numbers in a loss to Cleveland of all teams. Palmer threw touchdowns to four different players, including two each to Chad Johnson and T.J. Houshmanzadeh, and remains an elite Fantasy quarterback for Cincinnati's Week 3 game at Seattle. |
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Palmer likes facing the Browns
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Updated 9/12/2007 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: In two games last year against the Browns, QB Carson Palmer threw five touchdowns with 627 passing yards with three interceptions. He topped 275 yards in both games and has hit that number in three of his last four against the Browns. Palmer also has attempted at least 27 passes in every game he's played against the Browns, completing at least 60 percent of his passes in four of six tries. | Analysis: Palmer may have finished with only 194 yards passing against the Ravens in Week 1, but don't expect him to repeat that meager total in Week 2 against the woeful Browns. Palmer is one of the top three QBs in the league and is a must-start every week. |
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Palmer adequate vs. Ravens
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Updated 9/10/2007 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Playing a stellar Ravens defense in Week 1, Bengals QB Carson Palmer completed 20 of 32 passes for 194 yards. He also tossed two touchdown passes -- one to Chad Johnson and one to T.J. Houshmandzadeh. | Analysis: The touchdowns salvaged an otherwise lackluster game for Palmer's Fantasy owners. Don't sweat the low yardage too much. The difference between the Ravens and the Browns -- Palmer's Week 2 opponent -- is like night and day. Keep him active in all leagues. |
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Palmer displays confidence vs. Ravens
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Updated 9/6/2007 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: The Sports Xchange reports the Ravens open the season Monday night at Cincinnati, and that means all eyes will be on Bengals quarterback Carson Palmer. He is one of the few quarterbacks that show no fear against the Ravens defense. Since rallying the Bengals from a 17-point fourth-quarter deficit in Baltimore, Palmer is 4-1 against the Ravens. When it comes to this AFC North rivalry, Palmer is the most accurate barometer of how the game will end. In his four wins over the Ravens since 2004, he has thrown nine touchdowns and two interceptions. The only loss came when he threw more interceptions (two) than touchdowns (one). | Analysis: Few quarterbacks have the poise and confidence to attack the Ravens. Even Peyton Manning seems intimidated at times against the aggressive Baltimore defense. In his past three games against the Ravens, Manning has a quarterback rating of 79.2. Compare that to Palmer's 108.2 rating against Baltimore in five games. The Ravens have only sacked Palmer nine times in five games, but they could put more heat on him in the opener. Right tackle Willie Anderson hasn't played in the preseason because of a heal injury, and the Bengals are undecided at left tackle. They will either play Levi Jones, who vented his frustrations over playing time, or Andrew Whitworth. With these question marks on the edges, the Ravens might be able to attack more. If you drafted Palmer, you probably can't afford to bench him. Just lower your expectations for him this week. |
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Palmer not his best vs. Ravens
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Updated 9/5/2007 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer struggled against the Baltimore Ravens last year, and, in Week 1, he gets to face them at home Monday night. He had 428 yards passing, two touchdowns and two interceptions in two games against Baltimore in 2006. | Analysis: The Ravens also led the NFL last year with 28 interceptions and were No. 2 with 60 sacks. If you drafted Palmer, you probably can't afford to bench him. Just lower your expectations for him this week. |
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Palmer solid in preseason play
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Updated 8/31/2007 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer was 27-for-43 (62.8 percent) passing in the preseason, throwing for 270 yards and two touchdowns. He finished with a 96.1 QB rating. | Analysis: The numbers are not that important in the preseason, but they were pretty good. If that was his line in Week 1 vs. Baltimore, his Fantasy owners would be happy. We view Palmer as the second best quarterback in Fantasy, behind only Peyton Manning. He's worth a pick starting in late Round 2 in all leagues. |
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Carson Palmer gets on track
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Updated 8/28/2007 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: After a sluggish start to the preseason by the offense, the Cincinnati Bengals finally showed some life with the ball. QB Carson Palmer tossed an 8-yard touchdown pass to Chad Johnson and a 7-yarder to Daniel Coats, the first two touchdowns of the preseason for the first-team offense. "I thought it was OK, but we're nowhere near where we want to be," Johnson said. | Analysis: Palmer finally had a decent outing, completing 15-of-22 for 136 yard and two scores. Don't sweat his poor preseason -- continue to view Palmer as a No. 1 Fantasy QB with a bullet. He's worth a pick starting in late Round 2 in all leagues. |
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Palmer struggles in preseason play
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Updated 8/19/2007 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Carson Palmer played four series and was a pedestrian 5-for-10 for 41 yards with a sack and fumble that set up the Saints' second touchdown in the Bengals' second preseason game. | Analysis: Palmer had a rough outing, but only played four series. Don't sweat this poor effort -- continue to view Palmer as a No. 1 Fantasy QB with a bullet. He's worth a pick starting in late Round 2 in all leagues. |
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QB Palmer sets up pair of FGs
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Updated 8/10/2007 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Carson Palmer completed seven of 10 passes for 93 yards in Thursday's preseason opener against in Detroit to set up two field goals on his only two drives, totaling 121 yards. WRs Chad Johnson and T.J. Houshmandzadeh each had a pair of receptions from their star quarterback. | Analysis: Palmer looked to be in midseason form and that's a good sign for the Cincinnati Bengals and Fantasy owners in early drafts. The only concern for Palmer might be his return to a knee brace, but he certainly didn't appear to have any difficulty on this night. He remains a No. 1 Fantasy quarterback in all leagues. |
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Palmer goes back to brace
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Updated 8/7/2007 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: According to the Cincinnati Enquirer, the surgically-repaired left knee of QB Carson Palmer was wrapped in the brace he wore throughout the 2006 season. So far in training camp 2007, Palmer had worn a fabric sleeve on the knee or nothing at all. So the return of the brace, three days after he participated in the live scrimmage and two days following the mock game, which he missed, was noteworthy. "Nothing's wrong," Palmer said while signing autographs for fans on the field after practice. "I'm going to wear it all year, and I'm just getting used to it again." | Analysis: This shouldn't be a cause for concern, but keep an eye on Palmer and hope he doesn't have a setback with his knee. He is a No. 1 Fantasy QB in 2007. |
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Palmer puts knee behind him
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Updated 6/4/2007 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: The high-tech, hinged knee brace hangs from a hook in Carson Palmer's locker, a symbol of how far the quarterback has come from his career-threatening injury. A year and a half later, he doesn't even need a brace. Palmer is back to full health and playing at full speed during the Cincinnati Bengals' weekend minicamp. Palmer tore ligaments, dislocated his knee cap and suffered cartilage damage during a playoff loss to Pittsburgh at the end of the 2005 season, the Bengals' first playoff appearance since 1990. He was limited in minicamp and training camp last year, and wasn't fully back to form until the middle of the season - still way ahead of schedule. | Analysis: Palmer threw for a club-record 4,035 yards last season and was MVP of the Pro Bowl. He has spent the offseason working out with his receivers, trying to get their timing down so they can get off to a fast start. His knee is such an afterthought that he isn't wearing the precautionary brace for minicamp this weekend. "I'll definitely be wearing it for games," Palmer said. "But in (workouts) if I'm not going to get hit, there's no need to have it on." The knee is no longer an issue. And Palmer, which he proved last year, is a No. 1 QB option in all Fantasy leagues. |
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Palmer has two TDs
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Updated 12/31/2006 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer was 20-of-38 passing for 251 yards and two touchdowns against Pittsburgh. He also had two carries for minus-3 yards. | Analysis: Palmer will be a No. 1 QB again in 2007. |
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Palmer has rebound season
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Updated 12/28/2006 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: A year ago, Bengals QB Carson Palmer had everything going his way. The Cincinnati Bengals had already clinched their first winning record and first playoff berth since 1990. With three days left in the year, the team rewarded him with a mammoth contract extension that could keep him around through 2014. At that moment, everything was falling into place for the former Heisman Trophy winner. Then, it all fell apart. His major knee injury during a playoff loss to Pittsburgh started months of physical pain, self-doubt and close scrutiny. When Kimo von Oelhoffen rolled into Palmer's lower left leg on his first pass, two of his ligaments were shredded and his kneecap dislocated. The Bengals lost the playoff game 31-17, and their future was clouded by doubts whether Palmer would ever be the same. He heard them as soon as the anesthetic started clearing from his brain. He listened to some, ignored others, and started a rehabilitation that went much faster and smoother than the norm. He was back for the season opener, though it took him about half the season to get back into form. Heading into the final regular-season game against Pittsburgh, Palmer needed 176 yards to break Boomer Esiason's team record for a season and 216 to become a 4,000-yard passer. The only reminder of the injury is a protective brace that protrudes from his uniform sock. | Analysis: Palmer has been great again this season and should finish out the year with a solid game against Pittsburgh in Week 17. Palmer is a No. 1 QB in 2007 as well. |
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Palmer close to team history
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Updated 12/27/2006 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Bengals.com reports that with a 216-yard game vs. Pittsburgh in Week 17, Carson Palmer will become the first quarterback in Cincinnati to ever throw for 4,000 yards in a single season. | Analysis: That's a pretty solid accomplishment for Palmer, who may not be the best Fantasy passer out there but one who, for coming off of major knee surgery, is one of the top five. Consider him a No. 1 Fantasy QB not only vs. the Steelers in Week 17, but also in 2007 league play. |
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Palmer said shoulder is fine
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Updated 12/25/2006 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Carson Palmer said his shoulder felt fine after Sunday's game against Denver. Forced to answer questions this week about a sore shoulder suffered in Monday night’s loss to Indianapolis, Palmer didn’t necessarily put the issue to rest with his performance when he completed 21-of-40 for 209 yards, two touchdowns and two interceptions. Palmer missed Chris Henry and Chad Johnson on deep balls when the receivers had gotten behind the coverage. He had T.J. Houshmandzadeh open in the end zone on Cincinnati’s first possession but overthrew him and was intercepted. Palmer was intercepted again when he threw slightly behind Chad Johnson and All-Pro cornerback Champ Bailey picked off the pass. "When playing against the best in the league, you have to be on the money," Palmer said in Monday's The Columbus Dispatch. | Analysis: Palmer should be fine after throwing 40 passes. Consider him a No. 1 option for Week 17 against the Steelers. |
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QB Palmer tosses two TDs
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Updated 12/24/2006 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Carson Palmer (shoulder) completed 21-of-40 for 209 yards, two touchdowns and two interceptions in Week 16 at Denver. | Analysis: Palmer, who missed practice time due to a shoulder injury, was fine despite the flying snow in Denver. The No. 1 Fantasy quarterback will look to finish up strong in Week 17 against Pittsburgh. |
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Palmer goes through practice
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Updated 12/21/2006 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer fully participated in practice Thursday, saying his passing shoulder was fine. Palmer was listed as probable for the game Sunday in Denver. "Everything's great," he said before practice. "I'm going to practice today, I'm going to play on Sunday. I'm going to practice on Friday. Everything's good." Palmer was listed on the team's injury report this week for the first time all season. He didn't fully participate in practice Wednesday, resting a stiff right shoulder. Palmer was sacked four times and hit hard several other times during a 34-16 loss in Indianapolis on Monday night. He landed on the shoulder when he was sacked and fumbled on the last play of the first half. He made an unexpectedly fast recovery from reconstructive knee surgery last January, and was ready for the opening game of the season. Palmer has been among the league's top passers in the second half of the season, and was picked for the Pro Bowl this week. | Analysis: It looks like Palmer will be fine for Sunday against Denver. Consider him a No. 1 QB option. |
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CIN downplays Palmer injury
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Updated 12/21/2006 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: The Bengals denied a report on profootballtalk.com that QB Carson Palmer had possibly sustained a torn rotator cuff. "Any reports of a serious structural injury are unfounded," Bengals public relations director Jack Brennan said in The Columbus Dispatch. Palmer is listed on the injury report as not practicing, but that can be misleading. A player is so designated if he misses part or all of 11-on-11 drills. Brennan said Palmer did participate in other drills. "He was rested a little bit (Wednesday) and they expect he will fully practice tomorrow," Brennan said. Wedneday morning, the quarterback brushed off the suggestion that he took a beating against the Colts. "I’ll be fine," Palmer said. "I feel good today. I don’t feel too banged up. I don’t feel I got hit too hard or anything out of the ordinary." | Analysis: Keep an eye on Palmer's status before setting your lineup. If he plays, consider him a No. 1 option against Denver in Week 16. |
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Palmer held out of practice
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Updated 12/20/2006 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer was held out of practice on Wednesday with a shoulder problem. The injury is not described as serious. Palmer is probable for Week 16 at Denver and is expected to practice on Thursday. | Analysis: For now, consider this news a non-issue and be prepared to start Palmer as a low-end No. 1 Fantasy QB at Denver in Week 16. |
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QB Palmer nearly invisible
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Updated 12/19/2006 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Carson Palmer completed just 14-of-28 passes for 176 yards, no touchdowns and no interception in Week 15 at Indianapolis. He also completed a career-low three passes in the first half. | Analysis: Palmer and the Cincinnati offense will look to rebound in Week 16 at Denver in what is a key battle for playoff positioning in the AFC. He might not have that great of a game against a still dangerous Denver defense at home. Remember, weather might also be a factor in Colorado at this time of the year. |
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Palmer throws three INTs
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Updated 12/10/2006 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer completed 20-of-28 passes for 297 yards and two touchdowns in a Week 14 win over the Raiders. He did however throw three interceptions. | Analysis: Outside of three pretty athletic interceptions by the Raiders, Palmer had another good day at the ballpark. Consider him a No. 1 Fantasy QB for Week 15 against Colts. |
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QB Palmer has a TD pass
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Updated 12/1/2006 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Carson Palmer completed 21-of-32 passes for 234 yards, one touchdowns and no interceptions in Week 13 against Baltimore. | Analysis: Palmer will look for bigger and better things in Week 14 against Oakland in a potentially high-scoring contest. |
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Palmer vows to perform vs. Ravens
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Updated 11/29/2006 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Bengals quarterback Carson Palmer, who threw for only 194 yards and was intercepted twice in the first meeting between with the Ravens, has vowed to have a better performance vs. Baltimore in Week 13 after watching film of the contest. "When I say it hurts, I mean it literally hurts watching what we did against them the last time," said Palmer. "We didn't play well at all. I feel we've come a long way and made a lot of progress offensively. They'll be seeing a different unit, a unit they've seen in years past but not in this past game." | Analysis: Palmer should be considered a No. 1 Fantasy QB for this game despite the Ravens tough defense. Weather may also be a factor in this game, but Palmer is too good of a player to sit at this crucial point in the Fantasy season. |
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Palmer throws three TDs
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Updated 11/26/2006 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer was 25-of-32 passing for 275 yards, three touchdowns and one interception against Cleveland. He also had one carry for 2 yards. | Analysis: Palmer continues to be one of the top Fantasy QBs this year. Consider him a No. 1 QB despite a tough matchup against Baltimore in Week 13. |
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C. Palmer throws three TDs
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Updated 11/19/2006 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer threw for 275 yards off 14-for-22 passing in Week 11 at New Orleans. He added three touchdowns, all to WR Chad Johnson. | Analysis: Palmer found Johnson early and often for touchdowns of 41, 60 and four yards. That's back-to-back big games for Palmer who looks to be as comfortable as he's been since his knee injury. Consider him a great start in all leagues for Week 12 at Cleveland. |
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Palmer has career day
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Updated 11/12/2006 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer was 31-of-42 passing for 440 yards and three touchdowns with a fumble lost vs. San Diego in Week 10. It's Palmer's first 400-yard game in his career. | Analysis: Those who have stuck with Palmer this season were rewarded in Week 10. Consider him a starting option when he plays at New Orleans in Week 11. |
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Palmer struggles vs. Ravens
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Updated 11/6/2006 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer threw for only 195 yards in Week 9 at Baltimore. He finished 12-for-26 passing with one touchdown and two interceptions. | Analysis: Palmer was up against a very tough Ravens defenses and had a couple of bounces go against him. He'll have a very good chance to bounce back in Week 10 vs. San Diego. |
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Palmer likes facing BAL
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Updated 11/2/2006 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer posted his first 100.0-plus passer rating of the season on Sunday, raising his season's rating to 93.4. He has 11 touchdown passes against just four interceptions and is completing 62.3 percent of his passes. But there's a stat that matters even more to the fourth-year quarterback, and one that he takes responsibility for -- the team's 4-3 record. "There are a number of plays I'd love to have back, a number of instances in games I'd love to have back," Palmer said. "If your quarterback plays great and he goes out there and does his job and doesn't miss everything and is 100 percent on everything, you're going to win your football games. We're 4-3. I haven't been 100 percent, I haven't been perfect (and) I haven't played great football. You can put all the blame ... on me." Maybe the Ravens, though they traditionally have one of the NFL's top defenses (third this season overall) bring out the best in Palmer. In his past three games against Baltimore, where the Bengals play Sunday, Palmer has completed 76.1 percent of his passes for 932 yards, eight touchdowns and two interceptions for a 130.2 rating. In the 2004 game at Baltimore, Palmer rallied the Bengals from a 20-3 third-quarter deficit for a 27-26 victory. | Analysis: Consider Palmer a must-start this week against the Ravens, who have played well on defense but also given up a lot of big plays. |
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Palmer blames himself for struggles
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Updated 11/1/2006 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Things aren't pleasant these days in Cincinnati, where the Bengals' subpar offense has created a lot of grumbling. Quarterback Carson Palmer tried to end it Wednesday by putting the problem in perspective. He blamed himself. Although Palmer defied expectations by returning only seven months after reconstructive knee surgery, he hasn't been as good as he was before the injury. His numbers are down, his form is off, and his offense is struggling. "If the quarterback plays great and he goes out there and does his job and doesn't miss everything and is 100 percent on everything, you're going to win your football games," Palmer said. "We're 4-3. I haven't been 100 percent, I haven't been perfect, I haven't played great football. You can put all the blame you want on me." | Analysis: Palmer's numbers aren't too bad on the season. He has 11 touchdown passes and has only thrown four interceptions. He has a QB rating of 93.4 and passed for 1,684 yards. Palmer is just being tough on himself and is not happy with his team's record. As far as his Fantasy value is concerned, he is a must-start player as long as he is healthy. The Bengals play the Ravens in Week 9. |
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Palmer passes for 2 TDs
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Updated 10/29/2006 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer was 24-of-36 passing for 266 yards and two touchdowns against Atlanta. Palmer also lost a fumble. | Analysis: Palmer is a must-start every week. The Bengals face Baltimore in Week 9. |
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Palmer throws 2 TDs
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Updated 10/22/2006 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer was 23-of-39 passing for 240 yards and two touchdowns against Carolina. He also had one carry for 6 yards. | Analysis: Palmer played well despite a banged-up offensive line. Consider Palmer a good start in Week 8 against Atlanta. |
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Palmer, Rudi to miss OL Jones
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Updated 10/16/2006 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: The Bengals' sputtering offense took another hit Monday when left tackle Levi Jones learned he likely will need arthroscopic knee surgery, sidelining him for a rough stretch of Cincinnati's schedule. Jones hurt his left knee during the first half of a 14-13 loss in Tampa that stripped the luster off of the defending AFC North champions. The offense hasn't played to expectations since center Rich Braham suffered a significant knee injury during the second game of the season. | Analysis: Now, the player who protects Carson Palmer's blind side will be out for several weeks, with some of the league's top defenses lined up to take their best shot. "It is going to be a tough month," Jones said. Rookie Andrew Whitworth is expected to start in Jones' absence. QB Carson Palmer and RB Rudi Johnson remain must-starts in all Fantasy leagues, but don't be surprised to see the Cincinnati offense continue to struggle with Jones on the mend. |
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Palmer rebounds for decent day
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Updated 10/15/2006 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer was 24-of-37 passing for 261 yards and a touchdown at Tampa Bay in Week 6. He started very slow, as did his receivers, but a big second half put his stats over the edge despite the loss. | Analysis: Palmer has fallen out of favor with a few Fantasy owners (just one 300-yard game and one four TD game), but most of them are sticking with him. His schedule is about to get really dangerous, though: vs. Carolina next week, then vs. Atlanta, at Baltimore and vs. San Diego. Don't expect colossal numbers from Palmer on a consistent basis over the next four games. |
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Palmer hopes for more protection
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Updated 10/11/2006 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Bengals quarterback Carson Palmer will try to lift the Bengals' offense out of its doldrums in Week 6 at Tampa ay. He threw for 245 yards against New England in Week 4, but had no touchdown passes while being sacked four times and losing two fumbles. Palmer has been sacked 15 times, four fewer than all of last season. A re-tooled offensive line, as well as the lack of a consistent running game or second receiver behind Chad Johnson have caused problems the team has yet to overcome regularly. "The fact that he's getting hit more and the pressure has an effect on any quarterback," Cincinnati offensive coordinator Bob Bratkowski said. "What we've got to do is do a better job of protecting him to allow him to do it." | Analysis: Palmer should definitely start for Fantasy owners in Week 6. If you own him, start him. |
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Palmer goes TDless in Week 4
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Updated 10/1/2006 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: QB Carson Palmer failed to throw a touchdown in Week 4 as the Bengals were routed 38-13 by the Patriots. Palmer completed 20-of-35 passes for 245 yards. He made two key mistakes in the fourth quarter by fumbling the ball twice thwarting any comeback attempts. | Analysis: Palmer had a pretty good week despite the mistakes and throwing no touchdowns. The Bengals are on a bye in Week 5, but return to action in Week 6 against Tampa Bay. |
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Palmer has 4 TD passes
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Updated 9/24/2006 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer was 18-of-26 passing for 193 yards with four touchdowns and two interceptions. Palmer also was sacked six times. | Analysis: Palmer played against the Steelers for the first time since hurting his knee in last year's playoff game and looked solid. He threw two touchdowns to Chris Henry and two to T.J. Houshmandzadeh. Palmer is a must-start every week and should do well in Week 4 against New England. |
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Lewis says Housh will play at PIT
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Updated 9/23/2006 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: According to CincinnatiBengals.com, head coach Marvin Lewis has already made the decision that WR T.J. Houshmandzadeh (heel) will make his 2006 debut on Sunday at Pittsburgh. Houshmandzadeh (heel) was upgraded to probable after practicing with the team on Friday. | Analysis: Expect Housh to give it a go on Sunday. Chris Henry will reportedly get the start, but Houshmandzadeh will likely get into the action early, giving QB Carson Palmer another target downfield. Use him as a No. 3 receiver in deeper formats, but we recommend reserving him if you have a healthier alternative you trust because it will be his first game action of the regular season and it will come against a stingy Steelers defense. |
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Cowher impressed with Palmer
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Updated 9/21/2006 |
| Carson Palmer, QB CIN | |
| News: Steelers coach Bill Cowher's admiration for Bengals QB Carson Palmer has grown in watching him comeback from knee surgery. "I am amazed, really, to be honest with you," Cowher said. "No. 1, just watching him go through it, listening to him this whole offseason, just the determination he had to be back out there. ... And then just watching him play these first two games, he looks like he just kind of picked up where he left off. I think it's just a great feel-good story. It couldn't happen to a better guy. He's good for the league. He's certainly a quality player at his position. I'm happy for him. At the same time, he's going to make it tough for us because when he's out there, he runs that show pretty well." | Analysis: Palmer showed he is back to being a No. 1 QB with his performance against Cleveland last week where he passed for 352 yards, two touchdowns and two interceptions. While the Steelers defense is tougher than the Browns, you cannot put Palmer on the bench. |
