2013 Fantasy Football: Running Backs

1. Adrian Peterson: There is no disputing that Adrian Peterson is the greatest active running back in the National Football League. Peterson rushed for more than 2,000 yards last season in the wake of an ACL injury. Peterson's knee will only strengthen over time, and it is very likely the Minnesota Vikings rely heavily on their star running back in 2013. Opposing defenses will focus on the AP due to the poor passing game in Minnesota, so it is highly unlikely Peterson replicates the same statistics seen in 2012.

2. Arian Foster: In the category of yards per carry, running back Arian Foster has seen a gradual decrease in production over the past three years. In 2012, Foster averaged 4.1 yards per carry, which is good, but not elite. Foster made up for it by scoring 15 touchdowns over the course of the season. Foster is no Adrian Peterson, but is clearly worth the second overall pick in the draft.

3. Marshawn Lynch: "Beast Mode" has finally taken the league by storm, as Marshawn Lynch's pure tenacity proves to be a challenge on opposing defenses. What Lynch lacks in size is made up for with speed and strength, as the Seahawks running back ran for 1,590 yards and 11 touchdowns. Despite the addition of wide receiver Percy Harvin, head coach Pete Carroll has said he will center his team around the running game in 2013. Lynch's consistency makes him extremely valuable in fantasy football, and is a valuable pick up after AP and Foster.

4. Ray Rice: A large part of Baltimore' success in 2012 can be credited to running back Ray Rice, who played a key role for Baltimore throughout the postseason run. Ray Rice saw a decrease in attempts in 2012, but by averaging 4.4 yards per carry, Rice ran for 1,143 yards. At age 26, Ray Rice should be entering the prime of his career, yet his productivity has gradually decreased over the years. Bernard Pierce, who proved himself as a consistent rusher, will also steal attempts from Ray Rice in 2013.

5. Alfred Morris: Alfred Morris, a sixth-round pick out of Florida Atlantic, broke out as a star in Week 1, and then consistently posted sensational fantasy points week in and week out. Morris' 1,613 rushing yards ranked third all-time among rookie running backs, and there is no reason why Morris can't replicate these same numbers in 2013. In fact, Robert Griffin III is injury-prone, so when RGIII is off the field, Morris will be the main guy to help move the chains.

6. Doug Martin: In a Week 9 game against the Oakland Raiders, Doug Martin caught the eyes of football fans everywhere when he rushed for 251 yards and four touchdowns, a grand total of 51 fantasy points. Martin's inconsistent play after Week 9 is worrisome as a fantasy owner, because who says Martin can replicate such numbers again. Defenses will begin to focus on Martin unless Josh Freeman can elevate his game; otherwise, "The Hamster" may be at risk of extinction.

7. LeSean McCoy: After coach Andy Reid was fired, The Philadelphia Eagles brought in Chip Kelly from Oregon, a coach who loves to utilize the run game in order to win. LeSean McCoy will be extremely valuable to Kelly in 2013, despite missing a large portion of 2013 with a concussion. When LeSean McCoy was healthy, he averaged 11.25 fantasy points per game, even though he scored just 2 touchdowns in 12 games. McCoy likely had an off-year, and will bounce back when Chip Kelly makes his debut in Week 1.

8. Trent Richardson: Trent Richardson's rookie season was a gleam of hope for the Cleveland Browns organization, who have had just one winning season in the past 10 years. Richardson is a one man show, with a weak quarterback in Brandon Weeden and a practically non-existent offensive line. The heavy work-load last season led to several different injuries, and unless the Browns supply an improved supporting cast, Richardson will continue to be at risk of injuries.

9. CJ Spiller: When running back Fred Jackson was injured in 2012, CJ Spiller jumped in to rescue Buffalo's running game. Spiller's extraordinary speed allowed him to rush for 1,244 yards and an extraordinary 6.0 yards per carry. The Buffalo Bills believe Fred Jackson is a better running back closer towards the end zone, so Spiller is unlikely to score any touchdowns next season; however, if Fred Jackson is injured once again, CJ Spiller will transform into one of the most valuable rushers in the league.

10. Jamaal Charles: Jamaal Charles underwent surgery to repair his ACL in 2012, yet he still managed to rush for 1,509 yards, a career high. Throughout his career, Jamaal Charles has averaged 5.8 yards per carry, but he has trouble finding the end zone. Under Andy Reid's new scheme as head coach, Jamaal Charles' speed and agility will make him a fantasy football star.

Fantasy Football Preview 2012: Tips & Questions

Tips:
- Before the draft, map out a blueprint involving sleepers, busts and your top players. However, be careful not to fall in love with a certain player (especially in auctions) where you might overspend.
-10 quarterbacks threw for 4,000 yards or more in 2011, and with so many passers to choose from, it will be important to nab those running backs early.
-Many big names suffered injuries in 2011 (Peyton Manning, Jamaal Charles, Adrian Peterson), so while some may be conservative and avoid these players, it could be key to take this risk. Like I said in my previous tip, though, do NOT overspend! Also...
-Don't be afraid to take a risk in the later rounds! For example, select someone who you believe will breakout in 2012, not someone who has already broken and on the wrong side of 30.
-Many people make the mistake of taking either a defense or a kicker before the final two rounds. Both categories are too inconsistent that it is not worth spending a valuable draft pick when you could be selecting the next Victor Cruz.
-Once the fantasy draft is over and the season has begun, be active on the waiver wire! By far the most important advice I can give, I highly recommend picking up players who were dominant in Week 1.


Important Fantasy Football Questions:
Robert Griffin III or Andrew Luck?... Last April, we saw two quarterbacks taken with the first and second overall picks--Robert Griffin III and Andrew Luck. The two are completely different passers; one is a pocket presence QB with record setting accuracy, the other a scrambler capable of throwing deep bombs down field. But with the football season approaching, who is the better option in fantasy football? Quarterback Andrew Luck has been compared by many to all time greats such as John Elway and Peyton Manning due to his extraordinary abilities. However, neither Elway nor Manning were able to do well fantasy wise during their first season. RGIII on the other hand resembles Michael Vick due to his speed and arm strength. Griffin's running abilities make him even more valuable in fantasy football, giving him the upper hand over Luck.

Which player to have a disappointing year in 2011 will bounce back in 2012?... If you were to mention Chris Johnson to any football fan, the first thing that comes to mind his 2,000 yard season. However, since 2009, his statistics have gradually dropped off, from 14 touchdowns, to 2011 touchdowns, all the way down to 4 in 2011. His 40 yard dash time stands at 4.24 seconds, so clearly the speed is there. Sadly, Johnson did not get off to a quick start like he normally does, averaging 2.1 yards per carry in his first three games, and not scoring a touchdown until Week 5. This past offseason, Johnson gained 10 pounds of pure muscle, and is the most undervalued player entering 2012. My second place vote is awarded to Michael Vick of the Philadelphia Eagles, a lethal fantasy weapon when at his best.

Which player to have suffered an injury will return to full form in 2012?...Over the past five years, no running back has been more consistent than Adrian Peterson. Sadly, AP suffered a serious ACL tear on Christmas Eve, and missed all of 2011. His 12 touchdowns in 12 games last season was an absurd accomplishment, but many are speculating on whether or not he will be 100% at the start of the season. Watch closely this August to see how his injury is coming along. Even if Peterson is 90% by Week 1, he can be a top 5 running back by the end of the season.

Thanks for the read!!

Fantasy Football Preview 2012: Defense

Defense/Special Teams:

John Abraham

1. San Francisco 49ers: The Golden State's front seven could be one of the best in the NFL; players like Justin Smith and Patrick Willis were able to keep opposing offenses from scoring a rushing touchdown up until Week 14. They may have only scored one defensive touchdown, but with 23 interceptions and Jim Harbaugh at the helm, this defense will stay lethal for the next 5 years.

2. Houston Texans: Many will be wondering how this Houston defense will fare without their star linebacker Mario Williams. Just look at least season's numbers, and you will see that Houston does not have a problem. Fantasy wise, the Texans defense scored almost the same amount of fantasy points with Williams as they did without him. In 2012, Brian Cushing, J.J. Watt, Antonio Smith and Jonathan Joseph all need to stay healthy as well as consistent in order for Wade Philips' defense to dominate once again.

3. Chicago Bears: Any team who has Devin Hester at the punt return spot is bound to be ranked highly in fantasy football. However, what makes Chicago even more lethal is their well balanced defense. The run defense ranked 5th overall last season thanks to star linebackers Brian Urlacher and Lance Briggs. Juluis Peppers was the sole pass rusher on Chicago with more than 10 sacks in 2011, which led to the drafting of defensive end Shea McClellin in April. If there is one thing Chicago might want to improve, it is their mediocre pass defense. Otherwise, the Bears will finish in the top 5 for fantasy defenses once again. 

4. Philadelphia Eagles: The Dream Team may have been unsuccessful in 2011, but the defense still stood strong. Corners Nnamdi Asomugha and Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie both had off years, and both will need to bounce back if Philadelphia wishes to fill the hole left by Asante Samuel. The defensive line--dominated by Trent Cole and Jason Babin--helped this defense rank 1st overall in sacks last season. Assuming Philly's pass rush can stay healthy and consistent, this defense might give the 49ers a run for their money at number one.

5.  Baltimore Ravens: Baltimore fans everywhere cringed when they heard reigning Defensive Player of the Year Terrell Suggs will miss most of 2012 to a partially torn achilles, as did those who play fantasy football. Baltimore has always finished among the top defenses fantasy wise, but Suggs will clearly affect this team's statistics. A lot of pressure will be put on 37-year-old linebacker Ray Lewis, who is joined by Lance Brigg, Jameel McClain, and Haloti Ngata. Sure, the Ravens defense will put up great numbers week in and week out, but their stock falls slightly without their star outside linebacker.

6. New York Jets: Last season, it seemed as if the New York Jets defense was unable to catch a break, constantly dealing with injuries and disappointing performances from their stars. Antonio Cromartie, Bart Scott, and Calvin Pace were all nonexistent in 2011, which adds to this team's potential for next season. If these three players were to resurrect their game, they could be scary when alongside Darrelle Revis and David Harris.

7. Seattle Seahawks: The Seahawks defense improved substantially ever since Pete Carroll came to town, and not much should change for the next few years. The Seahawks roster may not contain a superstar defender, but overall, they may have one of the most well rounded group of players in the NFL. Chris Clemons is the dominant force for this pass rush, racking up 11 sacks last season. The run defense is great to start with, and the secondary has shown major improvements. Depending on the scoring system for your fantasy football league, the Seahawks are a great choice when teams such as San Francisco and Houston are off the board.

8. Pittsburgh Steelers: Sure, the Steelers ranked first overall last season in pass defense and total defense, but what will come of Pittsburgh without  linebacker James Farrior and defensive end Aaron Smith in 2012? Obviously players like Ziggy Hood and Cameron Hewyard will fill the holes nicely, but if one of their over-30 players (James Harrison, Troy Polamalu, Ryan Clark, Larry Foote, etc.) were to be injured or suspended (James Harrison), will they be enough to lead this defense? There are to many questions for the Pittsburgh squadron, which is why they top out at number eight.

9. Buffalo Bills: As soon as the season ended, it was clear Buffalo was eager to strengthen their defense. Once Mario Williams became a free agent, Buffalo quickly handed him 100 millions dollars through a six year contract. The Bills were not quite finished, signing Mark Anderson do go along with their star defensive end. A lot of weight will be put on this front-seven, but the Bills are capable of consistently helping your team every Sunday.

10. Atlanta Falcons: The Atlanta Falcons were not ones to gain many headlines this offseason, but they did manage to silently pick up star corner Asante Samuel. Samuel brings to the table a knack for getting interceptions, something Atlanta needed to work on. Up front, we have Curtis Lofton and John Abraham, two aging defenders who have high expectations for next season. The Falcons are not one to finish in the top 5, but for a 10 person league or above, they are not a bad choice.

Fantasy Football Preview 2012: Running Backs

Running Back:

1. Arian Foster: Great in the playoffs, extremely consistent

(2011 Stats: 13 games, 1,224 yards, 12 TDs, 238 fantasy points)

2. Ray Rice: Good hands, lots of carries, and will dominate the league

(2011 Stats: 16 games, 1,364 yards, 12 TDs, 283 fantasy points)

3. LeSean McCoy: Breakout star, Vick might have more attempts

(2011 Stats: 15 games, 1,309 yards, 17 TDs, 270 fantasy points) 

4. Chris Johnson: A great chance at 2,000 yards in 2012

(2011 Stats: 16 games, 1,047 yards, 4 TDs, 157 fantasy points)

5. Maurice Jones-Drew: Passing game higher priority, consistent 1,000 yards each year

(2011 Stats: 16 games, 1,606 yards, 8 TDs, 249 fantasy points)

6. Marshawn Lynch: Stunning 11-week span, great at finding the end zone

(2011 Stats: 15 games, 1,204 yards, 12 TDs, 203 fantasy points)

7. Ryan Mathews: Mike Tolbert gone; health concern

(2011 Stats: 14 games, 1,091 yards, 6 TDs, 173 fantasy points)

8. Michael Turner: Extremely consistent, 30 years old

(2011 Stats: 16 games, 1,340 yards, 11 TDs, 203 fantasy points)

9. Adrian Peterson: 12 touchdowns in 12 games, major injury

(2011 Stats: 12 games, 970 yards, 12 TDs, 181 fantasy points)

10. Darren McFadden: Beast, has yet to play full 16 game season

(2011 Stats: 7 games, 614 yards, 4 TDs, 100 fantasy points)

Sleeper: CJ Spiller

Bust: Matt Forte

Fantasy Football Preview 2012: Quarterbacks

Quarterback:

1. Aaron Rodgers: Mobile, consistent, and the obvious number one fantasy quarterback

(2011 Stats: 15 games, 4,643 yards, 45 TDs, 385 fantasy points)

2. Tom Brady: New weapons, has potential to top Rodgers in 2012

(2011 Stats: 16 games, 5,235 yards, 39 TDs, 352 fantasy points)

3. Cam Newton: Young, talented, and will only get better

(2011 Stats: 16 games, 4,051 yards, 21 TDs, 352 fantasy points)

4. Drew Brees: Fabulous in 2011, bounty hurts his stock

(2011 Stats: 16 games, 5,476 yards, 46 TDs, 380 fantasy points) 

5. Matthew Stafford: Might not duplicate numbers, possible health problems

(2011 Stats: 16 games, 5,038 yards, 41 TDs, 333 fantasy points)

6. Michael Vick: Health key, possible star next season

(2011 Stats: 13 games, 3,303 yards, 18 TDs, 222 fantasy points)

7. Tony Romo: Wide receivers improve = top 5 quarterback

(2011 Stats: 16 games, 4,184 yards, 31 TDs, 265 fantasy points)

8. Eli Manning: Very consistent, statistics might drop off in 2012

(2011 Stats: 16 games, 4,933 yards, 29 TDs, 273 fantasy points)

9. Philip Rivers: Lost Vincent Jackson, still has Floyd, Meachem and Gates

(2011 Stats: 16 games, 4624 yards, 27 TDs, 246 fantasy points)

10. Peyton Manning: Top quarterback before injury

(2010 Stats: 16 games, 4,700 yards, 33 TDs, 287 fantasy points*)

Sleeper: Matt Flynn

Bust: Ben Roethlisberger

*injured in 2011

Fantasy Football Preview 2012

     Who isn't excited for fantasy football? The weeks of planning, the exciting, unpredictable draft, and an entire season full of gloating and sweet victory. Last season was marked as the year of the quarterback, where 10 passers threw for 4,000 yards or more. While the game we know changes, so does fantasy football, putting more stress on drafting a quality running back. In our first fantasy football preview, The NFL Report will supply a brief analysis on each and every player, as well as their statistics from the previous year. However, our take on fantasy football does not stop there; we will give tips involving pre draft preparation and draft day strategies. Important questions will be answered, and, last but not least, we give you, the reader, links to mainstream fantasy websites, where you can start a league of your own. We will be trying something new, though, by splitting our list into different posts, one about quarterbacks, one about running backs (etc). Please make sure to comment, subscribe, and like us on Facebook at facebook.com/thenflreport!