Camp Notes #1

Brian McDonald
Senior Editor
August 13, 2007
With the onset of fall practice comes a great deal of news at a rapid pace. While we provide our headlines to keep our readers aware of all that is going on, it becomes difficult to sift through what is most relevant to you and your league. Obviously we’re going to error on the side of too much information, however we also want to provide bi-weekly pieces that provide (and in some cases) restate what’s already been reported here at CFFinsider.com, but, most importantly, provide an analysis of its fantasy impact. News: Notre Dame’s QB situation one to avoid There are lots of unanswered questions. Fantasy Analysis: Here’s how it’s going to go: Evan Sharpley will be named the starter, and Charlie Weis will mix in plays for the running style of Demetrius Jones. After Notre Dame begins the season at 2-4, pressure will mount to finally get Jimmy Clausen some snaps. What you should do is cross any ND QB off your list for 2007. News: Tennessee RB situation becoming clear Arian Foster now clear #1 back Fantasy Analysis: This appears to be a time of difficulty for LaMarcus Coker, as Coach has suspended him indefinitely. While Coker gets his life in order, Foster assumes the role as #1 back and becomes one of the SEC’s top backs. Montario Hardesty now becomes Foster’s #1 competition for carries. News: Houston Cougars Starting Quarterback Coach Briles has said that Blake Joseph, Al Pena and Case Keenum will split practice snaps until someone steps up. Fantasy Analysis: We like Joseph to get the nod over Keenum and transfer Al Pena. He may struggle early on, but the Houston quarterback spot has proven extremely productive over the years, dating back to the Ware and Klingler days. If you get Joseph be patient and trust the Cougar system. News: Willie Tuitama is 100% It appears Willie is tired about hearing about his past concussions and is fired up about 2007. Fantasy Analysis: Tuitama is a hell of a talent and the new spread offense tendencies the Wildcats will be employing have us foaming at the mouth. Still, it’s time for Mike Stoops to begin doing what many (including us) think he will do…win. The defense seems to be in place, and while we’re somewhat concerned, Tuitama may have big 2007 written all over him. Draft him as a backup and follow this situation closely. News: Baylor’s Blake Szymanski throwing darts in practice Szymanski appears to be the man to beat for the Baylor QB gig, an oft-overlooked fantasy gem. He did hurt his ankle, but the injury does not appear to have any long-term implications. Fantasy Analysis: Sure Baylor often gets pummeled in the Big XII, but they can put up some huge fantasy numbers on occasion. Szymanski should hold off transfer Michael Machen and take the reigns of an offense that has Rice, Texas State and Buffalo on the schedule. He’d better not be your starter, but if matchups are right, Szymanski could explode. News: Texas Tech WR spots still a fantasy nightmare Freshmen Tramain Swindall and Detron Lewis have been thrown in the mix, and WR Todd Walker’s health is a concern. Fantasy Analysis: We’re thinking of starting another website dedicated solely to the Texas Tech wide receivers because with every day comes something new. As compiled by Don Williams at RedRaiders.com, there are still plenty of unanswered questions, most notably the health of starter Todd Walker. Take caution when spending an early pick on a Red Raider. News: Miami not close to naming a starting QB Both incumbent Kyle Wright and junior Kirby Freeman have a shot at the gig. Fantasy Analysis: These are not the days of Kelly, Kosar, Testaverde, Walsh and Erickson. Hell, they’re not even the days of Gino. Miami’s quarterback spot has been one to avoid for a while, and it will remain so until Mr. Marve becomes the #1. Speaking of, Robert Marve will be in a cast for a while, and it hasn’t been determined if he’ll redshirt following his summer car accident. News: Remember the name Rob Gronkowski Fantasy Analysis: Gronkowski is a physical specimen who appears to have the drive and the opportunity to thrive as a true freshman this year. He appears ready to continue (or maybe restart) the Pac Ten’s tradition of great fantasy tight ends. News: Kragthorpe really likes throwing to TE's Fantasy Analysis: In a recent piece by the Courier-Journal's Brian Bennett, the writer commented on how excited Gary Barnidge (and backup Scott Kuhn) were when they realized the key role the TE played in the Kragthorpe offense. This is great news for those that nab Barnidge who, coming off a 31-511-4 season, may see a Mackey award type season. News: Derek Kinder done for the year Fantasy Analysis: The loss of the best of the proven commodities at Pitt is devastating to the team, and it certainly makes any Panther skill player less attractive come draft day. News: Danario Alexander Fantasy Analysis: I think this guy is going to explode onto the national scene...and it would ahem, behoove you, to have him on your squad.

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Tags: Fall Camps