Getting on the Defensive: Not Seattle's best

Senior Fantasy Writer

Oct. 24, 2008

Stats you can use: Sack leaders | INT leaders | Tackle leaders

While the Seahawks can point to injuries as to why their offense isn't getting the job done, they can't do the same with their defense. All of the key players that helped the 'Hawks corral 45 sacks and 20 interceptions last year are playing poorly.

How bad is it? Not a single Seahawks defender ranks in the top 90 players overall in leagues that reward tackles.

Here's a glance at Seattle's key IDPs and where they're at this season compared to last season:

DE Patrick Kerney
2007 stats: 60 total tackles, 14.5 sacks, five forced fumbles
2008 stats: 18 total tackles, 4.0 sacks, one forced fumble
Analysis: Kerney had three of his four sacks in the first two games and needs to go on a tear before he's worth starting in IDP leagues.

LB Lofa Tatupu
2007 stats: 109 total tackles, 1 sack, four interceptions, nine passes defensed, three forced fumbles
2008 stats: 39 total tackles, zero sacks, zero interceptions, one pass defensed, one forced fumble
Analysis: Tatupu has just one game with 10-plus total tackles this season and hasn't been his usual all-over-the-place self. He's an example of a Fantasy IDP option that should be dropped for a hotter hand in standard leagues, but not in deeper leagues with extensive starting lineup requirements.

LB Julian Peterson
2007 stats: 74 total tackles, 9.5 sacks, two interceptions, three passes defensed, four forced fumbles
2008 stats: 32 total tackles, three sacks, zero interceptions, one pass defensed, two forced fumbles
Analysis: Peterson is actually on pace to match last year's totals in sacks and tackles, so there's not much not to like about him. He's also been pretty consistent. If only he could accelerate his play to crack the Top 25 linebackers in Fantasy.

LB LeRoy Hill
2007 stats: 81 total tackles, three sacks, four passes defensed, three forced fumbles, touchdown
2008 stats: 47 total tackles, zero sacks, two passes defensed, zero forced fumbles
Analysis: Hill has been the best Seattle IDP thus far, but that's not saying much as he's outside the Top 25 at his position and owned in just six percent of CBSSports.com leagues.

CB Marcus Trufant
2007 stats: 85 total tackles, seven interceptions, 15 passes defensed, touchdown
2008 stats: 28 total tackles, zero interceptions, four passes defensed
Analysis: Trufant has been a problem for the Seahawks as he hasn't been his usual shut-down self. This happened in 2005 after a strong 2004 season. He's not worth using as a Fantasy DB as there are much more productive options.

S Deon Grant
2007 stats: 77 total tackles, three interceptions, 10 passes defensed
2008 stats: 30 total tackles, one interception, three passes defensed
Analysis: Another defensive back with decent numbers, but again, there are better options out there. Grant barely registers among the top DBs in Fantasy these days.

Can the Seahawks defense turn around?

The biggest problem the 'Hawks face is that the offense is not staying on the field for a long time. On average, the defense is on the field for nearly 34 minutes a game, which is a while. They've run out of gas most of the time.

The other problem is that their pass rush is struggling. They have 14 sacks, but eight came in Week 2 vs. the 49ers, their Week 8 opponent. Until Patrick Kerney & Co. can get to the quarterback, this defense won't scare anybody.

DL matchups

Rams vs. Patriots O-line/passing game After the Broncos' seemingly harmless pass rush came up with six sacks of Matt Cassel last week, the red-hot Rams defense, led by their pass rush, should cash in a couple of times. The Rams have tallied seven sacks in their last two games, both with Jim Haslett at the helm.
Players to watch: Leonard Little, James Hall, Chris Long

Jets vs. Chiefs O-line/passing game The combination of Tyler Thigpen taking over at quarterback for Kansas City and an offensive line torn by injuries and bad play makes life easy for the Jets' front three.
Players to watch: Shaun Ellis, Kris Jenkins

LB matchups

Ravens vs. Raiders running game Seems obvious, but with Oakland expected to try and run, then try and pass short, these linebackers -- already angry over the 'bounty' comments made this week -- should be really strong.
Players to watch: Ray Lewis, Terrell Suggs, Bart Scott, Jarret Johnson

Lions vs. Redskins running game No one is running the ball more than the Redskins this season, and if Washington did built a big lead, the Lions' linebackers would be able to notch some garbage-time stats.
Players to watch: Ernie Sims, Paris Lenon, Alex Lewis, Jordan Dizon

DB matchups

Chargers and Saints vs. Saints and Chargers passing games: A little two-for-one here as both clubs have struggled with their run games and shouldn't find the going any easier in their LOndon adventure. Only a strong downpour would change this.
Players to watch: Roman Harper, Kevin Kaesviharn, Quentin Jammer, Eric Weddle, Randall Gay

Panthers vs. Cardinals passing game: This will be a big test for the Panthers, who have played brilliantly vs. the pass thus far. With the Cardinals coming east and likely being unable to run the football, we like the Panthers' chances at picking off Kurt Warner.
Players to watch: Chris Gamble, Richard Marshall, Ken Lucas

Do you have an IDP question? Send your thoughts to DMFantasyFootball@cbs.com and we'll post the best responses. Be sure to put Attn: IDP in the subject field. Include your name, hometown and state.

Jets could cut Goodson
Mike Goodson, RB, NYJ
11:21 AM

News: ESPN reports that Jets general manager John Idzik has a decision to make on the future of running back Mike Goodson after Friday's arrest on drug and weapon charges. The report says Idzik cut two players arrested recently for possession of marijuana, Claude Davis and Cliff Harris. But that doesn't mean he will take the same approach with Goodson, whose contract includes a $1 million signing bonus. The bonus is divided into payouts, and the report says he has yet to receive the full amount; he has pocketed at least $500,000. If Idzik tries to send a message and decides to cut him before the legal process plays out, it would be harder to recoup the money, according to a source. He'll have a better chance if he waits for the courts (and the league) to rule on the matter.

Analysis: It sounds like Goodson's days with the Jets are numbered, but if the legal process comes down in his favor he could remain with the team. But based on the reports of his arrest and the new regime with the Jets, they could decide to part ways, especially since they still have Chris Ivory, Bilal Powell and Joe McKnight on the roster. Keep an eye on what develops, but don't plan on drafting Goodson in the majority of leagues.

Doctors confident in Gronk
Rob Gronkowski, TE, NE
10:42 AM

News: ESPN reports that Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski, who is scheduled to undergo the fourth surgery on his left forearm on Monday, should be OK. The report says doctors feel confident that the infection has been eradicated, but they won't know for sure until they take tests during the procedure and then examine those over the next week. A new plate is expected to replace the one already in his arm and he will begin a new 10-11 week recovery period.

Analysis: We're glad to hear that Gronkowski should be OK after the forearm surgery, but he still has to deal with the upcoming procedure on his back, which should take place in 3-4 weeks. The goal is get Gronkowski back on the field for training camp, but he might not be ready until just before the start of the season. If Gronkowski is 100 percent with all his ailments then he has the chance to remain the No. 1 tight end in Fantasy with a pick in Round 2. But based on his health in May, he is dropping down the rank lists to more of a Top 5 Fantasy tight end. He's still worth drafting by Round 3 or 4 in the majority of leagues, but his value has taken a hit with another forearm surgery and the potential back problem. Stay tuned, and hopefully we get more good news as the offseason moves on.

RG3 begins throwing
Robert Griffin III, QB, WAS
10:34 AM

News: The father for Robert Griffin III told USA Today his son has been throwing a football since late April. That suggests he's ahead of schedule and could be ready to play in Week 1 against the Eagles on Sept. 9. RG3 posted on Twitter he had been doing "a couple of roll out throws," meaning he's running and throwing at the same time. "Everybody in the organization is targeting that season opener," Robert Griffin II said.

Analysis: The father added that RG3 is a little ahead of himself in his rehab compared to when he tore his right ACL in college, another good sign. Griffin tore up his knee on January 6 and the typical recovery from just an ACL procedure is nine months. His knee was damaged beyond that -- he also injured his MCL and PCL. Training camp opens on July 25, less than seven months after he got hurt. The Redskins' first game takes place September 9, eight months and three days after he got hurt. If the Redskins approach the injury with the long-term picture in mind then they might not rush him back so soon. A Fantasy gameplan: Draft Griffin with a pick in Round 7 or 8 and pair him with Carson Palmer in the final rounds. Palmer has a great early-season schedule and the Cardinals take on the Panthers in Week 5 when the Redskins are on bye. We'll keep you posted on RG3.

Gillislee has chance to start
Mike Gillislee, RB, MIA
10:25 AM

News: The South Florida Sun-Sentinel reports that Dolphins rookie Mike Gillislee, who ran for 1,152 yards and 10 touchdowns in his senior season at Florida, will compete with Lamar Miller, a 2012 fourth-round pick, and Daniel Thomas, a 2011 second-round pick, for the starting tailback spot during training camp this summer. Gillislee was drafted in the fifth round this year.

Analysis: We'd be shocked if Gillislee was the starting running back this season, but he doesn't have to leap frog proven veterans. Miller is unproven after barely playing as a rookie, and Thomas has struggled in two years. Still, Miller is expected to start, and Gillislee has the chance to beat out Thomas for the No. 2 job. Keep an eye on what happens, and unless Gillislee somehow ascends to the top of the depth chart he is only worth drafting with a late-round flier in standard leagues. In rookie-only formats take a chance on Gillislee with a second-round pick.

Vick: New offense is 'a lot easier'
Michael Vick, QB, PHI
9:15 AM

News: In an interview with 97.5 The Fanatic in Philadelphia, Michael Vick said his critics "know nothing about football" and preferred not to address issues about his play up to this point. That's because he's excited about the future, mainly working in Chip Kelly's new up-tempo no-huddle offense. Vick's working on ball security with Kelly, just one of several areas he has to clean up in order to efficiently play, which he's excited to do. "We had a lot of deeper throws last year, which required more time," Vick said. "It's just a big difference. Not to say there was anything wrong with the West Coast system, I loved it. I spent seven years in it, and it was cool. But I think the change of pace for me at this point in my career is good and the game is a lot easier now."

Analysis: If Vick likes the new offense and thinks it's easier to run, that can only mean good things for his statistics. There's still a camp battle to be had with Nick Foles and rookie Matt Barkley but we expect Vick to get the job. How long he has it is another question since he has a propensity for getting hurt. Vick is one of the appealing No. 2 Fantasy QBs to draft with a mid-round pick this summer, particularly to pair up with a starter you end up waiting for on Draft Day.

Moreno to fight for job
Knowshon Moreno, RB, DEN
11:56 AM

News: The Denver Post reports Broncos running back Knowshon Moreno should be ready for offseason workouts this week after suffering a knee injury in the playoff loss to Baltimore. Moreno could be fighting for his roster spot with Willis McGahee after the Broncos drafted Montee Ball. The report says "there isn't much doubt" the Broncos want Ball and Ronnie Hillman be their 1-2 running punch.

Analysis: Keep an eye on what happens with Moreno and McGahee heading into training camp, and hopefully the Broncos make it easier on owners to know who will make the final team. If Moreno is still with Denver once the season starts we expect him to provide a veteran presence behind Ball and Hillman but get little work. He is not worth drafting in the majority of leagues.

Bush in line for big year
Reggie Bush, RB, DET
11:40 AM

News: According to mlive.com, Reggie Bush could be in line for a breakout season. The report says Bush was a solid contributor in Miami, but Detroit's offense is built for his skill set. Bush will play in an offense similar to the one he excelled in during his standout years in New Orleans. He also will not have to worry about competing for playing time, which occurred during the end of his career with the Saints. The report ends with this line: "Detroit has so many weapons, Bush will rarely see stacked boxes, which might make him, and those who own him in Fantasy Football, very happy."

Analysis: We agree with this report that Bush should have a good season with the Lions. He is expected to start ahead of Mikel Leshoure, and coach Jim Schwartz said Bush could be in line for as many as 80 catches. We consider Bush a solid No. 2 Fantasy running back in standard leagues with the chance to be a No. 1 option in PPR formats. He's worth drafting as early as Round 3 in standard leagues.

Broyles could have breakout year
Ryan Broyles, WR, DET
11:43 AM

News: According to mlive.com, Lions receiver Ryan Broyles could be in line for a breakout season. The report says that Broyles had 349 receptions, 4,586 receiving yards and 45 touchdowns in college, so it is just a matter of time before his talent kicks in with the Lions. Broyles is currently recovering from his second ACL injury in two seasons. Detroit did not add a receiver early this offseason, which means the Lions must be comfortable with Broyles' progress.

Analysis: Broyles could be a steal with a late-round pick in most Fantasy leagues because of his potential. He could slot in as the No. 3 receiver for the Lions behind Calvin Johnson and Nate Burleson, and he should be a nice Fantasy option when healthy.

Pistol in Smith's future
Alex Smith, QB, KC
11:12 AM

News: The Chiefs have hired former University of Nevada head coach Chris Ault to a consultation position. Ault is best known for developing the pistol formation (quarterback in shotgun with the running back a few yards behind him). The Kansas City Star reports Alex Smith was spotted running "a handful of plays" out of the formation during OTA practices recently.

Analysis: If the Chiefs stick with the pistol then Smith could provide a few rushing stats to go with passing stats. It's a tall order to expect Smith to suddenly become a solid Fantasy option after being a limited passer with the 49ers for eight seasons but he is among the quarterbacks worth looking into as a No. 2 option, albeit behind the likes of Andy Dalton, Michael Vick and others. You might not see Smith drafted this summer but he could be useful as a one-week option, perhaps in Week 3 vs. Indianapolis or in Week 8 at Jacksonville (Andrew Luck's bye week).

Egnew expects to play
Michael Egnew, TE, MIA
11:05 AM

News: The Miami Herald reports that Dolphins tight end Michael Egnew has been training in mixed martial arts three days a week. “Doing that, you learn how to compete," Egnew said. “I expect to play this year. I’ve gotten stronger. I’m absolutely ready.”

Analysis: But Dion Sims is the better blocker to complement starter Dustin Keller. Egnew has more stretch-the-field skills than Sims but has a long way to go. He should not be drafted in the majority of leagues.

More Updates

1	Peyton Manning, DEN, QB
2	Drew Brees, NO, QB
3	Tony Romo, DAL, QB
4	Cam Newton, CAR, QB
5	Tom Brady, NE, QB
6	Aaron Rodgers, GB, QB
7	Robert Griffin III, WAS, QB
8	Russell Wilson, SEA, QB
9	Andrew Luck, IND, QB
10	Michael Vick, PHI, QB
All Rankings

1	Adrian Peterson, MIN, RB
2	C.J. Spiller, BUF, RB
3	Marshawn Lynch, SEA, RB
4	Alfred Morris, WAS, RB
5	Frank Gore, SF, RB
6	Arian Foster, HOU, RB
7	DeMarco Murray, DAL, RB
8	Jamaal Charles, KC, RB
9	Stevan Ridley, NE, RB
10	LeSean McCoy, PHI, RB
All Rankings

1	Calvin Johnson, DET, WR
2	Dez Bryant, DAL, WR
3	Demaryius Thomas, DEN, WR
4	Brandon Marshall, CHI, WR
5	Wes Welker, DEN, WR
6	Eric Decker, DEN, WR
7	Reggie Wayne, IND, WR
8	Steve Smith, CAR, WR
9	Victor Cruz, NYG, WR
10	Marques Colston, NO, WR
All Rankings

1	Rob Gronkowski, NE, TE
2	Antonio Gates, SD, TE
3	Aaron Hernandez, NE, TE
4	Jason Witten, DAL, TE
5	Greg Olsen, CAR, TE
6	Jimmy Graham, NO, TE
7	Tony Gonzalez, ATL, TE
8	Dwayne Allen, IND, TE
9	Kyle Rudolph, MIN, TE
10	Delanie Walker, TEN, TE
All Rankings

1	Matt Prater, DEN, K
2	Stephen Gostkowski, NE, K
3	Shaun Suisham, PIT, K
4	Adam Vinatieri, IND, K
5	Blair Walsh, MIN, K
6	Nick Novak, SD, K
7	Garrett Hartley, NO, K
8	Jason Hanson, DET, K
9	Mason Crosby, GB, K
10	Josh Brown, NYG, K
All Rankings

1	Steelers, DST
2	49ers, DST
3	Broncos, DST
4	Chargers, DST
5	Seahawks, DST
6	Bengals, DST
7	Bills, DST
8	Patriots, DST
9	Texans, DST
10	Packers, DST
All Rankings