Beasts of the East series - Giants Edition

The Counselor is IN:

The fine folks at Cowboys Pride are running a series that highlights the NFC East which is entitled Beasts fo the East. I wrote an article highlighting the Beast of the East- New York Giants edition and how they stack up again the Cowobys.

Along with my post, Dave Troll has a great article on the Beasts of the East- Washington Redskins Edition on Cowboys Pride. The Eagles and Cowboys -Beast of the East- articles will be added to Cowboys Pride during the next few days.

I am including my article for my readers below. Please check out the other Beasts of the East articles on Cowboys Pride.

Beasts of the East series - Giants Edition

As a part of Cowboys Pride’s spotlight on the Beasts of the East (NFC East), I will be examining the New York Giants. Even though they are a hated rival, I will do my best to fairly break down their team.

Strengths:
The Giants know how to score. They are 6th overall in scoring offense, with 26.7 points per game. They are rushing for 130.4 yards a game (11th overall) and should get better with Jacobs becoming healthier.

Their defense is holding opponents to 303.4 yards per game, which is 8th in the league. Their defense, which looked terrible the first two weeks, now appears to be one of their strengths. The defense should continue to get better as the season goes on.

Plaxico Burress has been a great target for Eli. He is large and can outjump most cornerbacks in the NFL. Along with his leaping ability, Plaxico is very quick and can get separation from cornerbacks. He has been red hot this season, even when injured.

Weaknesses:
Their defense is giving up a lot of points per game — 21.3 points. This defense continues to get better, but they still give up a lot of points. A "high octane" offense can outscore this team in a slugfest.

Eli Manning has been a very average starting QB rather than looking like the #1 overall pick. He has a "mortal" 82.9 passer rating. They are only 16th in passing yards. He has a 60.4 completion percentage. At times, Eli does remind you of his brother, but other times his performance and decision-making have no resemblance to Peyton's. If Eli is forced to make plays, then the Giants are likely to struggle.

Key Injuries:
Brandon Jacobs: He is "questionable" with an ankle injury. He gained 107 yards rushing in Week 7 while being questionable with his bad injury. He did not seem to be suffering from any ill effects of it on Monday. He is a big boy with good feet and can be a punishing back if he can stay healthy.

Derrick Ward: Derrick is listed as "probable" with an ankle injury. He ran the ball 7 times for 27 yards against the 49ers. He has been a good backup for Jacobs and was a capable starter when Jacobs was injured earlier in the year.

Plaxico Burress: He is also "questionable" with an ankle injury. Even when it was really bothering him, he still had monster games. He will continue to be Eli’s go-to guy.

Schedule:
The Giants have a current record of 5-2. They have played well their last five games. Below is their remaining schedule for the season.

Week 8: Oct. 28 NYG @ MIA
Week 9: Bye Week
Week 10: Nov. 11 DAL @ NYG
Week 11: Nov. 18 NYG @ DET
Week 12: Nov. 25 MIN @ NYG
Week 13: Dec. 02 NYG @ CHI
Week 14: Dec. 09 NYG @ PHI
Week 15: Dec. 16 WAS @ NYG
Week 16: Dec. 23 NYG @ BUF
Week 17: Dec. 29 NE @ NYG

This team should finish the season with about a 10-6 record after examining their schedule. That should be good enough for a second place finish in the NFC East. They should receive a Wild Card playoff berth. I would give them 3:2 odds to make the playoffs. In recent years, the Giants have fallen apart at the end of the season to sink their record and playoff chances. For them to finish second in the NFC East and make the playoffs, they will have to overcome their bad habit of the late-season train wreck.

Prediction for the NFC East Final Standings
Cowboys 12-4
Giants 10-6
Redskins 9-7
Eagles 5-11


How the Giants match up against the Cowboys

NY's Quarterback and Receivers vs. Dallas' Defense:
As stated in the Weaknesses section, Eli Manning has moments of brilliance and moments of bad judgment. He is 16th in passing yards. He has yet to develop into a top quarterback and remains an average QB for the NFL.

The Giants do have good receivers. The receiver corps is led by Plaxico Burress and Jeremy Shockey. This tandem is difficult to stop. Amani Toomer is quietly having a good year as well. The Cowboys will have to pick their poison with double-coverages.

The Cowboys’ cornerbacks have been banged-up this season. If Newman is 100% and Henry is back, then they should be able to cover the receivers most of the time. Henry has four interceptions, despite missing a couple of weeks with injury. The Cowboys are prone to getting burnt in the secondary, especially when the safeties are in coverage. The Cowboys are a middle-of-the-road 15th against the pass, having given up 208.9 yards per game (although that average does take into account all of Brady’s yards against them).

The first few games of the season, the Cowboys' pass rush was not effective. With Greg Ellis back on the field, the pass rush has been improving. DeMarcus Ware continues to be a monster, with six sacks. Ellis already has four. Anthony Spencer continues to learn the position of linebacker but is starting to get some pressure on QBs. They have 18 sacks through 7 games.

Advantage: Cowboys

NY's Running Backs and Offensive Line vs. Dallas' Defense:
The combination of Derrick Ward and Brandon Jacobs is a potent combination. Ward is averaging 4.4 yards per carry, and Jacobs is averaging 5.6 yards per carry. Jacobs is a big back — listed at 264 lbs. — and can be a bruiser. Ward is much lighter and quicker. They are averaging 130.4 rushing yards per game.

New York has a solid offensive line that can open holes for their running back tandem. They also protect Eli fairly well. They have only given up eight sacks this season.

The Cowboys' defense is 7th against the run and 7th overall in yards. They are only giving up 87.0 yards rushing per game and 295.9 total yards per game. They do, however, give up a lot of points per game.

Advantage: Draw

Dallas' Running Backs and Offensive Line vs. NY's Defense:
Dallas also has a potent tandem of running backs. Starter Julius Jones is a quick and shifty back that is averaging 3.8 yards per carry, but he often runs against the defense when it is the freshest. The pile-driving Marion Barber III runs with intensity and picks up 5.7 yards per carry. The Cowboys are also averaging 130.4 rushing yards per game.

The offensive line for the Cowboys has improved since last year. They are making nice holes for the running backs. However, they continue to give up too many sacks — 11 through 7 games — and have costly penalties.

The Giants' defense is very solid. They are 10th against the run and appear to be finding their groove. They are holding teams to 97.4 yards per game. This team is tough to run against. It will be a tough day for Barber and Jones, especially early in the game.

Advantage: Cowboys — but barely


Dallas' Quarterback and Receivers vs. NY's Defense:
In one year, Tony Romo has gone from a nice story as an undrafted backup to a budding star as the quarterback for the Dallas Cowboys. He has a passer rating of 95.6 and has thrown 16 touchdowns in 7 games. His completion rate is 62.8. He also brings elusiveness and the ability to make plays on the run. The Cowboys are fourth in passing yards with 271.6 yards per game.

Dallas' receiving corps is led by Terrell Owens and TE Jason Witten. Patrick Crayton is nicely filling in on the other side of Owens while Glenn is recovering. This receiving corps is dangerous.

The Giants' defensive line is anchored by great pass rushers Michael Strahan and Osi Umenyiora. This defense has an amazing 27 sacks after 7 weeks. They will need to keep the pressure on Romo to slow him down.

The Giants are 16th against the pass and give up 217.3 yards per game. They have given up some big plays. They do have 8 interceptions in 7 games. The secondary appears to be average.

Advantage: Cowboys

The Giants are almost a mirror image of the Cowboys. The big difference is the effectiveness of the Cowboys' aerial attack compared to the mediocrity of the Giants' passing game. This difference should lead to a hard-fought victory on November 11.

That is my review of the Giants as a Beast in the East.

The Counselor is OUT:

Week 8 Fantasy Injuries

The Counselor is IN:

Here are the Week 8 fantasy injuries and my commentary.

Cardinals:
Bye Week

Falcons:
Bye Week

Ravens:
Bye Week

Bills:
No significant fantasy injuries.

Panthers:
RB DeShaun Foster is probable with turf toe. He fully practiced on Thursday.

QB David Carr has a compression fracture in his lower back and is listed as probable. He looked good in practice and should start on Sunday. That sounds like a painful injury to play through.

Bears:
RB Cedric Benson has a knee injury and is probable. He was able to practice on Wednesday.

Bengals:
RB Rudi Johnson has a hamstring injury and is questionable for Sunday. He was held out of practice on Thursday. He is expected to play this weekend. You might want to delay adding him to your line up until we get closer to game time.

Browns:
RB Jamal Lewis is questionable with a foot injury. He has been limited in practice on Wednesday and Thursday.

Cowboys:
Bye Week

Broncos:
RB Travis Henry is questionable with a rib injury. He did not practice on Wednesday and Thursday.

TE Tony Scheffler is probable with a leg injury. He practiced fully on Thursday.

Lions:
No significant fantasy injuries.

Packers:
RB DeShawn Wynn is probable with a neck injury. He practiced with the first team on Thursday. He should start on Monday Night.

TE Bubba Franks is out with a knee injury. He will not play this week.

Texans:
QB Matt Schuab has a hip injury and is questionable. Coach Gary Kubiak stated that Schuab should be able to play.

WR Andre Johnson is questionable with a sprained posterior cruciate ligament in his knee. He was limited in practice on Wednesday and Thursday. He is real iffy to play this weekend.

Colts:
WR Marvin Harrison is probable with a knee injury. He practiced missed practice on Thursday. He is missing practice but he is expected to play.

Jaguars:
Maurice Jones-Drew is questionable with a knee injury. He did not practice on Wednesday but was able to practice in a limited fashion on Thursday. I would make him a game time decision.

QB David Garrard is out with a high ankle sprain. This is a bad and lingering injury.

Chiefs:
Bye Week

Dolphins:
TE David Martin is questionable with an ankle injury. He did not practice on Wednesday or Thursday. He is a game time decision.

QB Trent Green is out with a Concussion. He finally admitted that his career is probably over.

RB Ronnie Brown out for the season with an ACL surgery. I had him on one of my fantasy teams. He was the only player worth owning on the Dolphins. If no one has picked up Chatman, the now starting RB, he is worth a flyer.

Vikings:
QB Tarvaris Jackson is probable with a broken finger He practiced on Wednesday and Thursday on a limited basis. He is a game time decision. He seems to get injured a lot. Last week it was groin pull.

RB Chester Taylor has a minor pulled groin and is probable for Sunday. With Peterson, why is Taylor still playing on the Vikings? Taylor should play this weekend.

Saints:
No significant fantasy injuries.

Patriots:
TE Ben Watson is questionable with an ankle injury. He did not practice on Thursday.

RB Sammy Morris is questionable with an injury to the chest and collarbone. He might play this weekend but it will be limited because Maroney will be starting.

Giants:
WR Plaxico Burress is probable with an ankle injury. He was a stud with this injury last weekend and it appears he will play again. He still has not practiced this week but do not worry about it.

RB Derek Ward is questionable this week with an ankle injury. He missed practice on Wednesday. Jacobs will be starting and should get most of the carries.

RB Brandon Jacobs is probable with an ankle injury. Jacobs had a great week last week and should have one against Miami.

Jets:
QB Chad Pennington is probable with an ankle injury. He was limited in practice on Thursday. Pennington is the starter this week but if he does not play well, he may be the backup very soon.

WR Lavernanues Coles is probable with a knee injury. He was limited in practice on Thursday.

Raiders:
QB Josh McCown is questionable with a foot injury. If he can play on Sunday, it will be interesting to see if he starts over Culpepper. He was given all his reps with the scout team. It appears that he will back up Culpepper at this time.

WR Jerry Porter is probable with a shoulder injury. He has practiced fully all week. He will play on Sunday.

Eagles:
TE L.J. Smith is questionable with a groin/hernia. He practiced on Wednesday. He should play on Sunday.

Steelers:
WR Hines Ward is probable with a knee injury. He practiced fully Thursday after missing Wednesday. He should be safe to start this week.

Chargers:
No significant fantasy injuries.

Seahawks:
Bye Week

49ers:
RB Frank Gore is probable with an ankle injury. He did practice fully on Thursday. He should be good to start.

QB Alex Smith is probable with a shoulder injury. It is reported that he will start on Sunday.

WR Darrell Jackson is questionable with a quadriceps injury. He did miss practice on Wednesday. He is a game time decision.

Rams:
RB Steven Jackson is probable with a torn of the groin muscle. He is expected to start on Sunday.

WR Torry Holt is probable with a minor knee injury. He was limited in practice on Wednesday. He is expected to start this weekend.

Buccaneers:
WR Michael Clayton is out with a nagging high ankle sprain. On the positive side, he did not have any ligament damage.

WR Ike Hillard is probable with injury to his shoulder. He practiced fully on Wednesday. He had a good game last week while on the Injury report. I would expect the same.

TE Alex Smith has an ankle injury and is questionable. He did practice on Wednesday.

QB Jeff Garcia is probable with a hand injury. He will start on Sunday.

Titans:
WR Brandon Jones is questionable with a sore right knee. He started running on Wednesday. I would avoid starting Jones this week.

RB Chris Brown is questionable with a sprained left ankle. He did not practice on Wednesday. When he returns, he will be backing up White.

QB Vince Young is probable with his right quad. He took every snap in practice on Wednesday. He is ready to play this weekend.

Redskins:
No significant fantasy injuries.

That is all the fantasy injuries for this week.

The Counselor is OUT:

Commentators crown Patriots 7 games in!

The Counselor is IN:

Here we are in week 7 of the season. We are not even half way through the season. The Patriots remain undefeated by squashing the Dolphins. I am hearing commentators on the various networks discussing the Patriots going 19-0.

(In my best bad commentator voice) "The 72 Dolphins are nervous!" Are you kidding me? There are 9 more regular season games left for the Patriots. Then the Patriots would have to win every game in the post season including the Super Bowl.

The Patriots still have to play the undefeated world champion Colts. The Colts should be the team to beat instead of the Patriots. More than likely the Patriots would have to play the Colts again in the Playoffs. The Patriots are loaded with talent this year but so are the Colts yet many commentators are discounting the Colts.

This post is no slam on the Patriots. They outplayed my Cowboys last week. Tom Brady has been a monster and is having an unbelievable year. They are a great team. Their coaching staff is superior. But during this long season, it will be difficult to go undefeated.

Message for the Commentators , If the Patriots are still undefeated December, then you can start talking about the 72 Dolphins. Until then, (as Mike and Mike would say) just shut up!

The Counselor is OUT:

Balancing fandom and Fantasy team ownership

The Counselor is IN:

As an avid fan of my team and a Fantasy Football owner, I have faced the quandary. My Fantasy Football team's Quarterback is playing against my team. Do I cheer for my team at the expense of my fantasy team or do I hope my QB scores a lot? There are several senerios like this that we face week to week including opponnets have my teams players on their starting roster.

The ideal situation if for my team to get out to a huge lead early and to maintain it. Then I can feel comfortable with my fantasy QB scoring a lot of points while my team comfortably wins. This is a rarity. Usually it comes down to one having to win and the other having to lose.

I have come to the following determination for myself in these situations. I will cheer for my team to win at the expense of my fantasy team. I play and enjoy fantasy sports but being a fan of my team is a bigger part of who I am. I don't own any jerseys or ball caps for fantasy teams. As much as I love to brag about my fantasy sports championships, I will brag even more when my team wins the Superbowl. I am sure that other fans have differing views of balancing this out. What are your thoughts?

The Counselor is OUT:

Writing with Pride (Cowboys Pride)

The Counselor is IN:

I have loved writing since my high school English teacher (Ms. Burns- Thank you again) encouraged me to creatively write. Suffering from dyslexia, I have always struggled with the proper spelling and grammar. I am not a details person but rather a big picture guy. But through these struggles and the wonderful invention of grammar and spell check, I have continued my love of writing. With my blogs, I get the opportunity to write about subjects that interest me.

One of the things that I love is my Dallas Cowboys. I have loved them since I was a young boy, to my father's chagrin. I have found a great website, Cowboys Pride, where others share my love for the Cowboys. Yesterday, I officially accepted the offer from the fine folks, Deb and Reg in particular, at Cowboys Pride to become a Staff Writer for them. I am extremely excited about the opportunity to be on staff at the wonderful website.

This is really an honor because Cowboys Pride already has a host of wonderful writers. It is a true privilege and honor for me to join this staff. The site administration is extremely encouraging and supportive. They even have an editor to catch all my grammatical errors, which I definitely need.

One of my favorite things about Cowboys Pride is our acceptance of non-Cowboy fans. We invite fans of other teams to join in and express their opinions. Each week, we highlight and invite members of a fan site for that week's opponent. This week we have joined forces with the fine folks at The Viking Board to discuss the game. There is always a fun but competitive discussion.

When you get a chance, please stop by the Cowboys Pride website and see their newest staff writer.

The Counselor is OUT:

Week 7 Fantasy Injuries

The Counselor is IN:

Here are the Week 7 fantasy injuries and my commentary.

Cardinals:
WR Anquan Boldin is probable with a hip injury. He practiced on Wednesday almost to full capacity. He is expected to play this weekend.

QB Matt Leinart has been placed on the Injured Reserve and will be out for the rest of the season.

QB Kurt Warner is questionable with a tear to a ligament to his non-throwing elbow. He is expected to play some on Sunday but may not start.

Falcons:

QB Joey Harrington is probable with an ankle injury. The Falcons have already decided to make a change to Bryon Leftwich at QB. The Falcons are stating that this is a permanent move.

TE Alge Crumpler is questionable with a knee injury. He did not practice on Wednesday or on Thursday. Be cautious with starting Crumpler. He may be a game time decision.

Ravens:
QB Steve McNair is questionable with a stiff back and groin pull. He was absent from practice on Thursday.

WR Derrick Mason is questionable with gastroenteritis. He practiced partially on Wednesday.

TE Todd Heap is questionable with a hamstring. He missed practice on Wednesday.

TE Daniel Wilcox is questionable with a sprang to his toe. He was not at practice during the last two days. This lingering injury may continue to affect Wilcox for a while.

Bills:

QB J. P. Losman is probable with a knee injury. He will be the back up this weekend. The Bills are citing the fact that Losman is not 100% for him not starting. We will see if there is a QB controversy in Buffalo later in the year.

Panthers:
Bye Week

Bears:
WR Bernard Berrian is probable with a toe injury. He played well on last Sunday and appears to be ready to play this weekend.

Bengals:
RB Rudi Johnson has a hamstring injury and is questionable for Sunday. He was held out of practice on Thursday. He is expected to play this weekend. You might want to delay adding him to your line up until we get closer to game time.

RB Chris Perry is out with an ankle injury. He is yet to play this season.

WR Tab Perry is out with a hip injury. He was placed on IR earlier this week which will end his season.

WR Antonio Chatman is questionable with a hamstring injury. He did not practice on Thursday.

WR Chad Johnson is probable with an ankle injury. All signs point to Ocho Cinco starting.

TE Reggie Kelly is questionable with an ankle injury. He did not practice on Wednesday. Reggie is not a top tier fantasy TE but he is the starting TE in a potentially powerful offense.

Browns:
Bye Week

Cowboys:

WR Terry Glenn is out for Sunday's game.

Broncos:

WR Javon Walker is out after knee surgery. He will be out for a few weeks after the "clean out procedure".

Lions:

WR Calvin Johnson is probable with a back injury. He is expected to play this weekend.

RB T.J. Duckett is probable with an ankle injury. He is expected to be active for the game if he can help on special teams.

Packers:
Bye Week

Texans:
RB Ahman Green is probable with a knee injury. He practiced fully on Thursday and is expected to play this Sunday.

WR Andre Johnson is questionable with a sprained posterior cruciate ligament in his knee. He did not practice on Thursday.

Colts:

RB Joseph Addai is probable. He practiced fully on Thursday. He will play this weekend.

WR Marvin Harrison is probable with a knee injury. He practiced on Thursday but only partially.

Jaguars:
No significant fantasy injuries.

Chiefs:
WR Eddie Kennison is out with a hamstring injury.

RB Priest Holmes is questionable. The signs point to Holmes getting some playing time this weekend.

Dolphins:
TE David Martin is probable with an ankle injury. His practice was limited on Wednesday.

QB Trent Green is out with a Concussion. He is still experiencing the effects and thinks he can still play football.

Vikings:
QB Tarvaris Jackson is probable with a groin injury. He practiced on Wednesday on a limited basis and is expected to start on Sunday.

Saints:
K Olindo Mare is questionable with a groin injury. He practiced on Thursday and was green lighted to play on Sunday.

WR Robert Meachem is questionable with a knee injury. He is not progressing quickly.

Patriots:
RB Laurence Maroney is questionable with a groin injury. He practiced on Friday. He will be a game time decision again. This continues to drag on for Maroney. He is expected to play on Sunday.

WR Donte Stallworth is questionable with a knee injury. He was limited in practice on Thursday. He was questionable last week before lighting up Dallas.

TE Ben Watson is questionable with an ankle injury. He did not practice on Thursday.

RB Sammy Morris is out this week. It appears it might be a collarbone and it might take him a while to heal. He was just starting to show his fantasy value.

Giants:
WR Plaxico Burress is questionable with an ankle injury. He was a stud with this injury last weekend and it appears he will play again.

RB Derek Ward is questionable this week with an ankle injury. He practiced in a limited amount on Wednesday.

RB Brandon Jacobs is questionable with an ankle injury. Just when he gets back from injury, then he gets hurt again.

Jets:
QB Chad Pennington is probable with an ankle injury. He was limited in practice on Wednesday. Pennington is the starter this week but if he does not play well, he may be the backup very soon.

WR Lavernanues Coles is probable with a knee injury. He was limited in practice on Wednesday.


Raiders:
QB Josh McCown is questionable with a foot injury. If he can play on Sunday, it will be interesting to see if he starts over Culpepper.

RB Lamont Jordon is probable with a back injury. He played a lot last Sunday while being questionable. Expect Jordon to start.

Eagles:
TE L.J. Smith is questionable with a groin/hernia. He missed practiced on Wednesday and Thursday.

Steelers:
WR Hines Ward is probable with a knee injury. He practiced Thursday with a knee brace. It is an improvement but I would leave Ward on the bench until he shows you he is ready to play like the old Ward.

Chargers:
Bye Week

Seahawks:
WR D.J. Hackett continues to suffer with his ankle injury and is listed as questionable. He is expected to play this weekend. I would see how he plays before starting him.

RB Shaun Alexander is probable with a wrist injury. He has practiced all week. He will play on Sunday.

49ers:

QB Alex Smith is probable with a separated shoulder. He has been practicing in drills and wearing pads. He will be dressed for the game but will not start this weekend.

TE Vernon Davis is questionable with a knee injury. He was limited in practice on Wednesday but is expected to play on Sunday.

Rams:
WR Isaac Bruce is questionable with a hamstring injury. He was limited in practice on Wednesday.

RB Steven Jackson is questionable with a 40 percent tear of the groin muscle. He was limited in practice Wednesday. I would not count on him to play this weekend.

QB Marc Bulger is probable with a rib injury. He should start on Sunday.

WR Torry Holt is probable with a minor knee injury. He did not practice on Wednesday. He is expected to play this weekend.

WR Drew Bennett has a hamstring injury and is questionable for Sunday's game.

Buccaneers:
RB Michael Pittman is out with a severe ankle sprain. After I promoted him last week, he goes down injured. He should be out 4 to 6 weeks.

WR Ike Hillard is probable with injury to his shoulder. He practiced fully on Wednesday.

TE Alex Smith has an ankle injury and is questionable. He did not practice on Wednesday.

Titans:
WR Brandon Jones is out with a sore right knee.

RB Chris Brown is questionable with a sprained left ankle. He did not practice on Thursday.

QB Vince Young is questionable with his right quad. He did not practice on Wednesday.

Redskins:
WR Antwaan Radle El is probable with a pesky hamstring. He should play this weekend but is not better than a 6th wide out.

WR Santana Moss is probable with a groin injury. He practiced fully on Wednesday.

That is all the fantasy injuries for this week.

The Counselor is OUT:

Chamber bolted from Miami

The Counselor is IN:

Today, the Miami Dolphins have traded Chris Chambers to the San Diego Chargers. Chambers was a really good receiver for the Dolphins. He has struggled some this year because of lack of a quality of quarterback. Miami will receive the Chargers' 2nd round pick.

This will immediately help the Chargers. Since Eric Parker went down, Vincent Jackson has been double covered. This will free up Jackson and make the defense have to plan for another good receiver. This should also help Gates and LT. Rivers will benefit most from this move.

On a fantasy note, this is gold for Chambers' owners. It might mean less catches for Jackson but I think it will help him in the long run. It should also increase the fantasy value of Rivers, Gates, and LT. The losers from this deal are any Dolphins offensive players (there should not be many at this time).

The Counselor is OUT:

Colorado Rockies continue to amaze

The Counselor is IN:

In the middle of last month, most experts had written off the Rockies. They appeared to be too far out to make the playoffs. They started winning, winning, and winning more. In fact they have now won 21 of their last 22 games. They barely snuck into the playoffs. They swept the Phillies and the Diamondbacks. They are waiting on the Indians and the Red Sox to finish their series so the Rockies will know who they will face in their first ever World Series appearance.

Before the playoffs began, I stated that a Rockies/ Indians World Series would be great. So far, one of my picks has made it and the Indians are up 3 to 1 in their series.

Congratulations Rockies! You have deserved it.

The Counselor is OUT:

Lessons from the Cowboy's loss

The Counselor is IN:

The Patriots came to play in Dallas. Dallas did play well but did not bring there full "A" game. Here are some lessons that I think can be learned from Sunday's Cowboy loss to the Patriots.

1) Penalties, Penalties, Penalties: The Cowboys were in double digits for penalties. How many first and 10's turned into first and 20's. There were a few phantom calls that went against the Cowboys but the Patriots did get a phantom offensive pass interference call against Moss. The worst penalties were the False Start and Holding penalties. Without these drive killing penalties, it would have been a different game. We must stop making stupid penalties.

2) The Cowboy defense looked really good for 3 quarters. Yes they gave up a lot of yards and TD’s but it was not because of them. Brady was on FIRE. Dallas' defense rushed Brady, stopped the run, and the covered receivers very well over all. The defense wore down in the fourth.

3) You must show up for 4 quarters when playing the better teams in the league. As usual the Cowboys offense did not play well in the first quarter. If only they could have played the first quarter like they did the second quarter.

4) Marion Barber III is a stud. He runs with such passion. Julius Jones is a fine back but Barber is the heart of this running attack. He knows how to attack. And what a stiff arm!

5) The Patriots are not invincible. The Cowboys had the lead in the third quarter. They were still in the game half way through the fourth quarter. Ultimately, the Dallas Defense was just on the field way to long.

The Counselor is OUT:

Cowboys Pride

The Counselor is IN:

There is a great Dallas Cowboy website/Forum out there called Cowboys Pride. If you love the Cowboys, like I do, then you should check it out. I think you will want to join with them and discuss the wonderful and some times frustrating thoughts of being a Cowboy fan. Check them out and tell them that I sent you.

The Counselor is OUT:

Week 6 Fantasy Injuries

The Counselor is IN:

I am sorry that this is so late being posted.

Here are the Week 6 fantasy injuries and my commentary.

Cardinals:
WR Anquan Boldin is questionable with a hip injury. He missed practice on Thursday. I would bench him for this week unless his status gets update to a more positive one.

QB Matt Leinart has been placed on the Injured Reserve and will be out for the rest of the season.

WR Bryant Johnson is probable and practiced on Friday. He will play on Sunday.

Falcons:
QB Bryon Leftwich, backup QB, is questionable with an ankle injury. He is not slated to start for the Falcons at this time.

TE Alge Crumpler is probable with a knee injury. He practiced partially on Friday. He should play on Monday night.

Ravens:
QB Steve McNair is questionable with a stiff back. He did not practice on Friday. Steve will play this weekend.

WR Derrick Mason is probable with gastroenteritis. He practiced fully on Thursday. He will play this weekend.

TE Todd Heap is probable with a hamstring. He practiced fully on Thursday.

TE Daniel Wilcox is out with a sprang to his toe. This lingering injury may continue to affect Wilcox for a while.

Bills:
Bye Week

Panthers:
QB Jake Delhomme is out with a strained throwing elbow. He is done for the season.

RB Nick Going is out with a concussion. He will not play this weekend and probably would not play much anyway.

QB David Carr is probable with a back injury. He practiced fully on Friday. The Panthers need him to play because newly signed Vinny Testaverde will be next in line.

Bears:
WR Bernard Berrian is questionable with a toe injury. He practiced fully on Friday and should play on Sunday.

Bengals:
RB Rudi Johnson has a hamstring injury and is probable for Sunday.

RB Chris Perry is out with an ankle injury. He may get to start practicing next week.

WR Tab Perry is out with a hip injury. Tab has minimal fantasy value when healthy.

Browns:
WR Joe Jurevicius is questionable with a knee injury. He was limited in practice on Thursday.

RB Jamal Lewis is questionable with a foot injury. He did not practice this week. I doubt if he plays on Sunday.

TE Kellen Winslow continues to recover from his shoulder injury. He probable for this weekend. It should be safe to start him this week.

Cowboys:
WR Terry Glenn is out for Sunday's game.

WR Terrell Owens is probable for this weekend's game. He will play. It should be fun to watch Owens and Moss on the same field.

Broncos:
Bye Week

Lions:
Bye Week

Packers:
WR Greg Jennings is listed as probable with a hamstring. He practiced fully on Friday. Jennings is starting to be a great second option for Favre. He may even over take Driver later in the year as the number one option.

TE Bubba Franks is probable with a knee injury. He was limited in practice on Wednesday. He is no longer the #1 Tight End for the Packers.

RB Brandon Jackson is questionable with a shin injury. He has been practicing. It will be a game time decision.

RB Vernand Morency is probable with his knee injury. He practiced fully on Friday.

Texans:
RB Ahman Green is questionable with a knee injury. He has been practicing and is expected to play this Sunday.

WR Andre Johnson is OUT with a sprained posterior cruciate ligament in his knee. He should be out for a few weeks.

K Kris Brown is listed as probable with a left foot injury. It appears to be a minor injury. This should not keep him from kicking 50 yarders.

Colts:
Bye Week

Jaguars:
RB Fred Taylor is questionable with a groin pull. The Jags will leave it up to Taylor to decide if he can play. This will be a game time decision more than likely.

Chiefs:
WR Eddie Kennison is out with a hamstring injury. The Chiefs believe that he will play this weekend. Bowe looks like the man for the Chiefs Wide Receivers. Kennision does still have some value if healthy.

QB Damon Huard is probable with a right shoulder injury. He practiced fully on Thursday and will be the starter on Sunday.

Dolphins:
RB Ronnie Brown is probable for Sunday's game with a foot injury. Ronnie has come into his own in the last few weeks. He will play and this trend should continue of him being a fantasy RB #1.

QB Trent Green is out with a Concussion. He is still experiencing the effects and thinks he can still play football.

Vikings:
QB Tarvaris Jackson is probable with a groin injury. He practiced with the first team on Friday and is expected to start on Sunday.

Saints:
K Olindo Mare is probable with a groin injury. He practiced on Thursday and was green lighted to play on Sunday.

WR Marques Colston is probable with a back injury. Colston should start on Sunday but he has not been worth starting yet this year. If their offense ever gets on track, he could have a big second half.

Patriots:
RB Laurence Maroney is questionable with a groin injury. He practiced on Friday. He will be a game time decision again. This continues to drag on for Maroney.

WR Donte Stallworth is questionable with a knee injury. He was limited in practice earlier in the week.

WR Kelley Washington is questionable with a hamstring injury and has been limited in practice this week. Hamstring injuries are bad news. Hopefully you will not need Washington to play anyway.

Giants:
WR Plaxico Burress is questionable with an ankle injury. He did not practice on Friday. He has a "severely sprained ankle." The Giants are hopeful that he can play on Monday Night.

RB Derek Ward is questionable this week with an ankle injury. He practiced in a limited amount on Friday.

WR Steve Smith (Not of Carolina Fame) is out for this week's game with a shoulder injury. He has no fantasy value.

Jets:
QB Chad Pennington is Questionable with an ankle injury. He practiced all week. He will start this Sunday.

WR Lavernanues Coles is questionable with a knee injury. He is missed some reps in practice. He is very likely to play on Sunday.

WR Justin McCareins is questionable. He has slipped in the depth charts behind Brad Smith. He is not much of fantasy option.

Raiders:
QB Josh McCown is out with a foot injury. He will not play on Sunday.

RB Lamont Jordon is questionable with a back injury. He received a pain killer shot on Friday. Leave Jordon on the bench this week.

Eagles:
RB Bryan Westbrook is probable with his abdomen. He practiced fully this week. He will play this weekend.

TE L.J. Smith is questionable with a groin/hernia. He practiced fully on Thursday. He should play Sunday.

Steelers:
WR Hines Ward is questionable with a knee injury. He is listed as questionable but he will not play this weekend. He is hoping to play on October 21 at Denver.

Chargers:
WR Vincent Jackson has a shoulder injury and is probable for Sunday's game. He practiced Thursday and Friday. He will play on Sunday. He is still a sporadic WR3.

WR Eric Parker is out with a toe injury. He is expected back week 8 after the bye week.

Seahawks:
TE Marcus Pollard is questionable with an injured left leg. He did not look good during Friday's practice. I would keep Pollard on the bench.

WR D.J. Hackett continues to suffer with his ankle injury and is listed as questionable. Also leave him on the bench.

RB Shaun Alexander is probable with a wrist injury. He will play on Sunday.

49ers:
Bye Week

Rams:
WR Isaac Bruce is out with a hamstring injury.

RB Steven Jackson is out with a 40 percent tear of the groin muscle. Ouch! He will be out at least a few weeks.

QB Marc Bulger is probable with a rib injury. He had been playing through the injury but has struggled in the process. The word out of St. Louis is that Gus Frerotte will start again this week.

QB Gus Frerotte is probable with a sprained ankle. He will play Sunday.

WR Torry Holt is probable with a minor knee injury. He fully practiced on Thursday and Friday. He will start on Sunday but he has not been the superstud that he used to be.

Buccaneers:
RB Carnell Williams is out for the year with a torn patellar tendon.

RB Michael Pittman is out with a severe ankle sprain. After I promoted him last week, he goes down injured. He should be out 4 to 6 weeks.

WR Ike Hillard is questionable with injury to an ankle and a shoulder. He practiced fully on Friday and should play on Sunday.

Titans:
WR Brandon Jones is questionable with a sore right knee. He is a game time decision. He did not practice on Friday. Keep Jones on the bench.

Redskins:
WR Antwaan Radle El is questionable and missed practice all week. You should have someone better to start on your roster.

WR Santana Moss is probable with a groin injury. He practiced fully all week and will play this weekend.

That is all the fantasy injuries for this week.

The Counselor is OUT:

Are you freakin kidding me????

The Counselor is IN:

Are you freakin kidding me???? What a bizarre Monday Night Football game. As a Cowboy fan, I am glad about how it ended but it was an awful rollercoaster ride of emotions. I can not believe that we won this game. Amazing! How many times did I think this game was over for my Cowboys? The onside kick never works when the defense is looking for it, except for tonight.

The hero of the game for Dallas was Nick Folk. Earlier in the game, he kicked a 49' field goal which was the longest in his short lived professional career. At the end of a game, by a miracle, he was given a chance to make the game winner. It was a 53' field goal that did not count because the Bills called the last second time out (Bush League!!!). Folk, who had never made a kick this long in any game, lined up and nailed it again. The Cowboys win and they have the kicker they have been looking for. I guess Nick will never be allow to grow any hair since he made this kick bald.

Tony Romo is such a classy and funny guy. He threw 5 interceptions and fumbled the ball. After the game he stated his team bailed him out of a terrible performance. He then joked about he felt he threw 7 or 8 interceptions in the first half instead of just 4. You could tell he loves what he does for a living but he was frustrated most of the night.

I hope this game was the scare that the Cowboys needed. They have to play the nasty Patriots Defense this coming up weekend and they better get prepared. If they play at all like they did tonight, the Cowboys will get slaughtered. Here is to hoping that Romo and T.O. play a much better game Sunday. Go Cowboys!

On other good news, the Indians beat the Yankees. What a great night!!!

The Counselor is OUT:

Week 5 Fantasy Injuries

The Counselor is IN:

Here are the Week 5 fantasy injuries and my commentary.

Cardinals:
WR Anquan Boldin is questionable with a hip injury. I would bench him for this week unless his status gets update to a more positive one.

QB Matt Leinart is probable with a back injury. With the good play of Kurt Warner, Leinart's value is limited anyway. If healthy, Leinart appears to be sharing snaps with Warner. I would leave him on the bench if possible.

Falcons:
No significant fantasy injuries.

Ravens:
QB Steve McNair is probable with a pulled groin. He practiced fully with the team on Thursday. Steve will play this weekend.

WR Derrick Mason is questionable with a knee injury. He was limited in practice on Wednesday and Thursday. Stay away from Mason this week.

TE Todd Heap is questionable with a hamstring. He only partially practiced on Wednesday and Thursday.

TE Daniel Wilcox is questionable with a sprang toe. He was limited in practice on Wednesday and Thursday.

Bills:
QB J.P. Losman is out with a knee injury. He is not worth starting at this point anyway.

Panthers:
QB Jake Delhomme is questionable with a strained throwing elbow. Jake did not practice again today. It is assumed that David Carr will start against the Saints. I would bench Delhomme and I would not consider picking Carr.

Bears:
RB Adrian Peterson (not the rookie in Minnesota) is questionable with a calf injury. He did not practice again on Thursday. He is currently Benson's backup and is only good as a flyer pickup.

Bengals:
Bye Week

Browns:
TE Kellen Winslow is probable with a "mild subluxation" of his left shoulder (partial dislocation). He was limited in practice on Thursday. Kellen will probably play but may not be effective while he is still injured.

Cowboys:
WR Terry Glenn is out for Sunday's game.

Broncos:
WR Javon Walker is Questionable with inflammation in his right knee. He sat out of practice on Wednesday.

RB Travis Henry is questionable with a knee injury. He did not practice on Thursday. He had an MRI on his injured right leg and no damage was found to his knee or ankle. He is not a safe start at this time. Keep an eye on it. He is also facing a drug suspension for a year for pot. (Well, Ricky Williams might be available to replace him)

RB Mike Bell has a concussion and is questionable. He did return to practice on Wednesday. At this point, Mike only has limited value when healthy but his value may go up with Henry’s situation.

Lions:
RB T.J. Duckett is listed as questionable. It does appear that he will be out 2 to 4 weeks. He has a mild high ankle sprain.

WR Calvin Johnson is questionable with back issues. He was limited in practice on Wednesday and Thursday. Keep him on the bench if you can and if not watch this closely.

QB Jon Kitna is probable with thigh bruise which he received on Sunday. Kitna will be in the starting line up.

Packers:
WR Greg Jennings is listed as probable with a hamstring and did not practice on Wednesday. Jennings is starting to be a great second option for Favre.

TE Bubba Franks is probable with a knee injury. He was limited in practice on Wednesday. He is no longer the #1 receiver for the Packers.

RB Brandon Jackson is questionable with a shin injury. It is unlikely that the rookie will play on Sunday.

Texans:
RB Ahman Green is questionable with a knee injury. Ahman believes he will play this weekend. I would not risk it.

WR Andre Johnson is questionable with a sprained posterior cruciate ligament in his knee. He should be out for a few weeks.

Colts:
RB Joseph Addai is probable with a shoulder injury. He did not practice on Thursday but he was on the sidelines.

WR Marvin Harrison is questionable with a knee injury. He did not practice on Thursday. Marv is a gamer. I think he will play but I would watch his status pre-kick off.

Jaguars:
No significant fantasy injuries.

Chiefs:
WR Eddie Kennison is out with a hamstring injury. The Chiefs believe that he will play this weekend. Bowe looks like the man for the Chiefs Wide Receivers. Kennision does still have some value if healthy.

Dolphins:
No significant fantasy injuries.

Vikings:
Bye Week

Saints:
No significant fantasy injuries.

Patriots:
RB Laurence Maroney is questionable with a groin injury and limited in practice on Thursday. In a surprise move, he did not play on Monday night. He will be a game time decision again.

WR Donte Stallworth is probable with a knee injury. He was limited in practice on Thursday. All signs point to him playing on Sunday.

WR Kelley Washington is questionable with a hamstring injury and has been limited in practice this week. Hamstring injuries are bad news. Hopefully you will not need Washington to play anyway.

Giants:
RB Brandon Jacobs has a sprained MCL and is questionable. He is expected to play this weekend. He will be sharing carries with Ward. You should wait and see what his role will be before starting him.

WR Plaxico Burress is probable with an ankle injury. He did not practice on Thursday. He has a "severely sprained ankle." He still expected to play.

Jets:
QB Chad Pennington is probable with an ankle injury. He missed some reps on Wednesday. He will start this Sunday.

Raiders:
Bye Week

Eagles:
Bye Week

Steelers:
WR Hines Ward is questionable with a knee injury. He did not practice on Thursday. There is a real good chance he will not play this weekend.

QB Ben Roethlisberger is probable with a foot injury. He was limited in practice on Wednesday but practiced fully on Thursday. He should be playing on Sunday.

Chargers:
No significant fantasy injuries.

Seahawks:
No significant fantasy injuries.

49ers:
TE Vernon Davis is out for the next two weeks with a knee injury. He will not play.

QB Alex Smith is out with a grade 3rd degree separated shoulder. The good news is that he will not need season ending surgery. The bad news is that he has not played well when healthy. It is time to pick up someone else.

Rams:
WR Isaac Bruce is questionable with a hamstring injury. He did not practice on Thursday. Even if he plays through the pain, he will be limited on how he can help your team until the hamstring heals more.

RB Steven Jackson is out with a 40 percent tear of the groin muscle. Ouch! He will be out at least a few weeks.

QB Marc Bulger is probable with a rib injury. He had been playing through the injury but has struggled in the process. The word out of St. Louis is that Gus Frerotte will start this week.

Buccaneers:
RB Carnell Williams is out for the year with a torn patellar tendon. Michael Pittman and Earnest Graham will be splitting carries. Both are worth a flyer pick up. Graham has 3 touchdowns already this year but Pittman has the experience to take the job.

Titans:
RB LenDale White has been listed as probable for an illness. He appears to be over it. He practiced fully on Thursday.

Redskins:
RB Clinton Portis is probable with a knee injury. He practiced fully on Thursday. It appears he will start on Sunday.

WR Santana Moss is questionable with a groin injury. He attempted to practice on Wednesday but had to stop part way through. If this speedster can not run, then his value is minimal even if he plays.

That is all the fantasy injuries for this week.

The Counselor is OUT:

The play that will live on in Cowboy History

The Counselor is IN:

Tony Romo, QB of the Dallas Cowboys, made a spectacular play on Sunday. It was simply amazing. This play will live on forever in Cowboy History.



The Counselor is OUT:

Yardbarker Network

The Counselor is IN:

The fine folks at Yardbarker have asked me to join the Yardbarker Network. If you have not checked out Yardbarker, then head over there and check them out. They have a ton of sports news and articles. It is worth your time.

It is a privilege to be a member of the Yardbarker Network. I now have a link on this site to the Yardbarker headline. I have also added an advertisement in the process of joining the Yardbarker Network. This relationship should benefit both this site and Yardbarker.

The Counselor is OUT:

How About Those Cowboys!

The Counselor is IN:

Much to my father's disgust, I became a Dallas Cowboy fan at a young age. I can not explain how a southwest Missouri boy, whose father is a St. Louis Cardinal and Kansas City Chief fan, became a Cowboy fan but I did. I have loved them since the days of Roger Staubach and Tony Dorsett. I have been a fan through seasons of Super Bowl wins and losses and through lousy seasons like when they only won one game.

Now my Boys are 4-0 this season. I am excited that they are playing well. In fact, they have scored more points in the first four weeks then the 99 St. Louis Rams (Greatest Show on Turf). Our defense is banged up but still playing fairly well. We have a really good running game with the Marion Barber and Julius Jones tandem. Tony Romo has been playing phenomenally and beyond reason as our quarterback.

I do not want to think about the playoffs or the Super bowl at this point. It is still a very long season and anything can happen. But I am excited about them anyway. To quote Jimmy Johnson, "How about those Cowboys!"

The Counselor is OUT