2011 New York Giants Fantasy Football Companion

July 12, 2011

NEW YORK – The 2011 NFL lockout has now reached 123 days. Reports have been circulating with the positive news that a deal could be made within the next week or two. Of course, they have been saying the same thing for over 4 months now but with the preseason so close (August 7, 2011), they may be telling the truth this time. If the season is truly going to be saved, then it is time to discuss fantasy football for the millions of people who enjoy playing the game every season. I will only be talking about New York Giants players in this article.

The first player we must discuss is WR Steve Smith. This is the steal of the entire fantasy football world for 2011 in my opinion. I have completed drafts in several leagues already and have been baffled by the fact that WR Steve Smith has gone undrafted in each and every one of them. I have been very fortunate to pick him up in every single one of my leagues without even drafting him. Knowing Smith will be available greatly effects draft strategy because you know you will get a quality WR on the back end, which allows you to focus on the running game or other areas of need early on. Smith has said that he is recovering from an injury very well and he will be ready for the 2011 season. Steve Smith will be the steal of this draft year in my opinion.

The following player list will show the player values for the 2011 fantasy football season. The players will listed in the order of their overall fantasy value. This list reveals my opinions only and should not be compared to any other fantasy ranking system. I have won a ton of fantasy championships and have over a decade of experience which makes me a fantasy expert. Of course, anything can go wrong at anytime and injuries could seriously effect the following predictions.

New York Giants Fantasy Football

1. QB Eli Manning – Manning has been putting up big numbers in recent years and I expect that trend to continue. Easy Eli responds to criticism very well and after being snubbed from the NFL Top 100 list, I expect Manning to play with a chip on his shoulder. Look for Eli to throw for 4,000+ yards and 30+ TD’s in 2011.

2. WR Hakeem Nicks – Nicks has the potential to be an all-pro player. I expect 1,200+ yards and 10 TD’s minimum from him in 2011.

3. New York Giants Defense – The Giants defense is simply scary. If they can remain healthy they will be a top 3 defense in 2011.

4. RB Ahmad Bradshaw – I am assuming the Giants will re-sign the speedy Bradshaw. If they do, Bradshaw will rush for 1,000+ yards and 7 or 8 TD’s.

5. WR Steve Smith – Smith is another player I assume the Giants will re-sign. Smith can easily eclipse the 1,000 yard receiving mark and pull down 5 TD’s.

6. RB Brandon Jacobs – I believe the Giants will utilize Jacobs the proper way in 2011. They will give him the ball more and give him the goal line carries. I expect Brandon “The Bull” to rush for about 700-800 yards with 10 TD’s.

7. WR Mario Manningham – Manningham has shown flashes of brilliance and should have 750 yards and 8 TD’s. Mario might have more if there are any reoccurring issues with Steve Smiths injury.

8. TE Kevin Boss – Boss has been plagued by injuries but should still grab 600-700 yards and 5 TD’s.

9. WR Victor Cruz (sleeper pick) – I like this kid a lot. If he gets an opportunity to log serious playing time due to player injuries, he could really do some great things. Either way, I expect him to flourish on special teams in 2011.

Do you play fantasy football and if so, would you agree with the list above? Would you add/subtract anything to/from the list?

RD – nygreporter.com

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2 Comments | 2011 Fantasy Football, 2011 New York Giants, 2011 NFL Draft, 2011 NFL Lockout, 2011 NFL Minicamp, 2011 NFL Preseason, 2011 NFL Regular Season, 2011 NFL Training Camp, Big Blue, Chris Mara, East Rutherford, Eli Manning, G-Men, Giants, Giants Coaches, Giants Draft, Giants Front Office, Giants History, Giants Mini Camp, Giants Roster, Giants Stadium, Giants Training Camp, Jerry Reese, John Mara, Jonathan Tisch, Justin Tuck, Kevin Gilbride, New Jersey, New Meadowlands Stadium, New York, New York Football Giants, New York Giants, NFC East, NFL, NFL Draft, NFL Lockout, NFL New York Giants, Nilay Shah, NY Giants, NYG, NYG Blog, NYG Draft, NYG Exclusive, NYG Fantasy Football, NYG Minicamp, NYG Preseason, NYG Regular Season, NYG Reporter, NYG Story, NYG Training Camp, NYG Website, nygreporter, Pat Hanlon, Perry Fewell, Steve Tisch, Timex Performance Center, Tom Coughlin, Tom Quinn, Wounded Warrior Project | Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Permalink
Posted by robdomaine

Giants Owner John Mara Steps Up Once Again

May 21, 2011

NEW YORK – You have to love Giants owner John Mara. Here is a man that is a throw back to the old school days of NFL football. He was one of the first owners to address the media when this whole lockout started 71 days ago. He was one of the first owners to address his fan base directly with a letter explaining what was about to happen. Thursday, he stepped up once again and addressed the media about the current state of the lockout. He explained how silly this whole lockout is and expressed his feelings about getting back to work and coming to an agreement soon. The players lost their battle in the court system already but now we have what amounts to a staring contest between the team owners and the players. Of course, this is a $10 billion dollar staring contest and one that will not end without feelings getting hurt.

Mr. Mara urged everyone to come back to the bargaining table because nobody is making an effort to resolve the issue. He is right. The only way to end this thing is to get into a room and make a deal. One way or another, the resolution must be made soon or the very real possibility of a lost 2011 NFL season could become a reality. Mara is clearly trying to get something done before the point of no return. The point of no return is when it takes longer to go back to the beginning then it does to reach the end of something. We are now only 16 weeks away from the first scheduled regular season game against Washington on September 11, 2011. At some point, a cut off date will be given and that date will decide the fate of the 2011 season.

What do you think about owner John Mara stepping up once again? Are you proud to have an owner that consistently takes a leadership role among NFL owners or would you prefer to have an owner that stays in the background? I have already acknowledged that I prefer a leader with Mr. Mara’s style. Someone who can examine a situation and immediately know where he stands. Leadership like that seems to be rare these days but I am glad it is not completely nonexistent. What do you think?

RD – nygreporter.com

Please support the Eric LeGrand charity walk this June 4, 2011! Check it out at http://www.awalktobelieve.org

2 Comments | 2011 Fantasy Football, 2011 New York Giants, 2011 NFL Draft, 2011 NFL Lockout, 2011 NFL Minicamp, 2011 NFL Preseason, 2011 NFL Regular Season, 2011 NFL Training Camp, Big Blue, Chris Mara, East Rutherford, Eli Manning, G-Men, Giants, Giants Coaches, Giants Draft, Giants Front Office, Giants History, Giants Mini Camp, Giants Roster, Giants Stadium, Giants Training Camp, Jerry Reese, John Mara, Jonathan Tisch, Justin Tuck, Kevin Gilbride, New Jersey, New Meadowlands Stadium, New York, New York Football Giants, New York Giants, NFC East, NFL, NFL Draft, NFL Lockout, NFL New York Giants, Nilay Shah, NY Giants, NYG, NYG Blog, NYG Draft, NYG Exclusive, NYG Fantasy Football, NYG Minicamp, NYG Preseason, NYG Regular Season, NYG Reporter, NYG Story, NYG Training Camp, NYG Website, nygreporter, Pat Hanlon, Perry Fewell, Roger Goodell, Steve Tisch, Tom Coughlin, Tom Quinn | Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Permalink
Posted by robdomaine

The Voting Has Started for the Giants Fan Contest

May 18, 2011

NEW YORK – Tons of anxious fans will be hoping to win the New York Giants fan contest that ends next week. Voting for the contest began today after the team received all of the entries sent in by fans. The Giants are not accepting any more entries but instead have begun the voting process by fans. I’m very excited to see who the final 10 winners will be on May 24, 2011. Please remember fans that the contest ends on May 24, 2011 at 5:00 PM EST. The 10 winners will be announced sometime later that night on Giants.com and facebook. Anyone interested in reading some wonderful fan stories and seeing some very unique photo’s of Giants fans are encouraged to check out the Giants facebook page at the following link http://on.fb.me/msbHyP and vote!

There are so many interesting stories to read that I think you will be surprised. This contest really knocks out two birds with one stone. First, they provide an incredibly unique opportunity for true blue fans to win something you literally cannot buy with money anywhere. You must win the votes in order to have your photo adorning a New York Giants home game ticket. The second thing this contest does is give true fans the chance to read some of the most interesting stories I have ever heard and to see some of the craziest photo’s I’ve ever seen. All of this of course is done with class and with good intentions. The Giants are a classy organization and would not allow anything to be out of line. They understand that a lot of their fans are kids and try to keep everything as family friendly as possible, just like we do here at nygreporter.com.

Will you be voting for the top 10 winners on facebook for the Giants ticket contest? Are you a Giants fan who has already entered the contest yourself? Let us know what you think. We will also be listing the top 10 winners here on our site for all to see. I want to wish everyone luck and remember that you are still a winner even if your entry isn’t chosen. You’re a winner simply because you are a New York Giants fan!

Once again, the contest ends on May 24, 2011 at 5:00 PM EST. Facebook.com/NewYorkGiants or http://on.fb.me/msbHyP

RD – nygreporter.com

Please visit www.hampscamp.com and donate/contribute to Rodney Hampton’s charity for the kids!

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Posted by robdomaine

Giants CB Prince Amukamara LIVE Chat on Eastbay 5/18

May 17, 2011

NEW YORK – Hello fans, are you interested in getting to know the New York Giants first round pick a little better? Do you have a question you would like to ask rookie CB Prince Amukamara? If so, you will have your chance tomorrow. Prince will be doing a LIVE Chat on Eastbay at 7:00 PM EST/4:00 PM PST (links will be provided below). The guy already has his own sneaker coming out, can you believe that? Not too bad for a rookie in New York.

The truth is New York expects big things from Prince in the future. This is a city that loves to win but also a city that has some of the smartest fans in the world. They will be with him every step of the way and I’m sure by the end of his rookie year, kids all over the five boroughs will be wearing his new Adidas sneaker (adiZero 5 STAR).

Giants fans have already had a glimpse of the Prince from his NFL Draft press conferences. Personally, I found him to be a very nice young man who will fit right into the Giants system and there is absolutely no question about his talent. He believes in faith, family and football. I like that. I don’t know how GM Jerry Reese does it but he seems to come away with classy rookies every year. I suggest all of New York come out and support this young man and check out his chat on Eastbay. I feel bad that these rookies have to deal with all of this lockout nonsense during one of the happiest times of their lives. Hopefully, they can get on the field soon and begin working with their new team mates.

I have two questions I would like to ask Prince. My first question is will he be attending any of QB Eli Manning’s “player practices” at Hoboken high school in New Jersey? My second question is what jersey number he would like to wear as a New York Giant? What are your questions for Prince?

Here is a link to the LIVE chat with Prince Amukamara at 7:00 PM EST on Wednesday 5/18/11.

Will you be checking out the Prince of New York during his LIVE chat on Eastbay? I know I will be there! www.eastbay.com/adidas

RD – nygreporter.com

Leave a Comment » | 2011 Fantasy Football, 2011 New York Giants, 2011 NFL Draft, 2011 NFL Minicamp, 2011 NFL Preseason, 2011 NFL Regular Season, 2011 NFL Training Camp, Big Blue, Chris Mara, East Rutherford, Eli Manning, G-Men, Giants, Giants Coaches, Giants Draft, Giants Front Office, Giants History, Giants Mini Camp, Giants Roster, Giants Stadium, Giants Training Camp, Jerry Reese, John Mara, Jonathan Tisch, Justin Tuck, Kevin Gilbride, New Jersey, New Meadowlands Stadium, New York, New York Football Giants, New York Giants, NFC East, NFL, NFL Combine, NFL Draft, NFL Lockout, NFL New York Giants, Nilay Shah, NY Giants, NYG, NYG Blog, NYG Draft, NYG Exclusive, NYG Fantasy Football, NYG Minicamp, NYG Preseason, NYG Regular Season, NYG Reporter, NYG Story, NYG Training Camp, NYG Website, nygreporter, Pat Hanlon, Perry Fewell, Roger Goodell, Steve Tisch, Tom Coughlin, Tom Quinn | Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Permalink
Posted by robdomaine

New York Giants: Playbooks of the Future

May 15, 2011

NEW YORK – Everyone has seen a photo of an NFL playbook. Some may have even been lucky enough to hold one in their hands (highly unlikely) and flip through the secret pages. The thing is as thick as a telephone book and must be guarded very closely by players. If a rival team happens to get their hands on your playbook, you would be in for a very long season. I was thinking about this old school way of doing business and wondered what the future holds for NFL players (can you tell I have too much time on my hands due to the lockout?) and the precious NFL playbook.

I began to wonder why nobody has suggested (maybe someone has) integrating the technology of the Madden NFL video games with actual playbooks? I am certain there will be pros and cons to doing something like this but heck, if the military is using video game technology to train the finest armed forces on the planet, it might not be a bad idea to look into it. Let’s face it, the players are spending quite a bit of time on their Playstation, Wii and Xbox consoles anyway. Why not make it somewhat productive? I can honestly say that I was the first person to suggest that “one day in the future”, coaches would send the plays into the huddle with microphones and headphones placed into the quarterbacks helmet. Of course, I was probably not the first person to invent the idea but I was certainly the first person to suggest it out loud among my friends back in the early 1990’s.

Imagine handing out CD’s to the players instead of those cumbersome phonebook sized playbooks. You could integrate true learning technology into the game that notifies a wide receiver when they run a wrong route or tells a running back when they fail to pick up a block. This would basically create an entirely new industry for the gaming world and put thousands of people to work overnight. The timing would be crucial and they would need to use CD’s that couldn’t be copied. There would also be an annual overhaul of the plays and new CD’s would need to be created before each season. They could even use secure internet connections that allow teammates to play each other in cyberspace (I’m not so sure about this idea yet), the way they do with other online games such as World of Warcraft or Call of Duty.

The term VP (virtual practice) would become a household name in America and the players might even enjoy studying their playbooks. Having a video game CD played on a dedicated TV in each players home can’t be anymore dangerous then leaving a huge playbook on the coffee table in the living room. If you take out the online capabilities, it would be virtually impossible for anyone to monitor the video game use. Each team would need to create their own “video game squad” that solely deals with individual team business. I’m guessing that this would be the area of most concern for teams. Can these video game creators be trusted and will they keep their mouths shut?

Do you think making playbooks into video games would help NFL players learn the plays faster? Is this something you think we will see come to fruition in our lifetime?

RD – nygreporter.com

Please visit www.hampscamp.com and donate/contribute to Rodney Hampton’s charity for the kids!

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Posted by robdomaine

Can Fantasy Football Survive a Cancelled 2011 Season?

May 12, 2011

NEW YORK – I have been a fantasy football player since 1999. I have seen that industry grow into a $15 billion dollar a year beast. There are only a handful of websites that can claim to be big time in that industry. Among them are CBSSports.com, ESPN.com and NFL.com to name the big three in my opinion. If the 2011 NFL season is cancelled, I am sure that those three sports sites will be fine. But what about the smaller websites that offer fantasy games or the emerging fantasy sites people don’t know about yet? I’m sure this is the furthest thing on the NFL’s mind but it is just another issue that will arise from the 2011 lockout that has now reached 62 days.

Could the 2011 NFL lockout actually benefit the larger sports sites, by creating a monopoly on fantasy football by eliminating competition through attrition? I know there are a lot of people out there who could care less about fantasy football but the fact remains that thousands of people have jobs working on the game. The economy is bad enough right now without adding a few thousand more people to the unemployment line. Sure there will be fantasy basketball and hockey that will emerge in the fall but everyone knows the bread and butter of fantasy sports is football. If the NFL cancels the 2011 season, fantasy staffs all over the country will be cut in half or laid off. The reality of “no football” until September 2012 would set in immediately and effect the economy instantly.

Personally, I do not think they will cancel this season. The amount of money is so great that the players or owners will eventually give in. The players I feel bad for are guys like New York Giants DT Barry Cofield who get stuck in the middle. Here is a guy who has played his heart out since being drafted by New York and he could wind up getting the shaft over politics. Free agents are the walking dead right now with zero options. I am a big Cofield fan and hope the team does the right thing with him. We all understand it is a business but giving Chris Canty almost 3 times the money Cofield makes is a joke. I have nothing against Mr. Canty but even he knows Cofield had a better season then he did last year. There is no denying that fact. Barry Cofield is a Giant through and through and deserves some respect for his contributions to the team. Cofield expressed his frustration in an article this week that I found to be honest and truthful. What do you think about his situation?

Top New York Giants for 2011 Fantasy Football

1. WR Hakeem Nicks

2. QB Eli Manning

3. WR Steve Smith

4. NYG Defense

5. RB Ahmad Bradshaw

6. RB Brandon Jacobs

7. WR Mario Manningham

8. TE Kevin Boss

Would you add or subtract anyone from the list above? Do you think there will be a 2011 NFL season?

RD – nygreporter.com

Please support the Eric LeGrand charity walk this June 4, 2011! Check it out at http://www.awalktobelieve.org

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Posted by robdomaine