Marion Barber Expected to Face Denver
Considering how badly he wanted to play on Monday night, this isn’t very surprising. Throw in the fact that Felix Jones is hurt, and it’s downright predictable.
ESPN’s Michael Smith reports that Barber may be “eased” back in, and may not actually start Sunday’s contest with the Broncos, but he’s a good bet to get 10-15 carries.
Keep your eye on the situation, and keep Tashard Choice handy whether or not you’re a Barber owner.
Felix Jones Definitely Out Against Denver
His knee sprain is bad enough that Dallas won’t rush him back. After all, if they weren’t rushing back Marion Barber, why rush back his back-up?
Tashard Choice showed he still has game after scoring a touchdown and running for almost as many yards as Jones against Carolina on Monday night.
Choice is a strong bet to get 10-15 touches against the Broncos this Sunday with Barber still “iffy”.
Derek Anderson to Replace Brady Quinn as Cleveland’s Starter
Yeah, because he did better than Quinn last week, right?
Anderson’s three first-half interceptions should have been a good indication that he’s not the guy for the job, but after two and a half dismal offensive performances, Eric Mangini figures it’s time for a change.
After all, if he doesn’t correct things quickly, he will be the change.
Without a sound rush attack, an average offensive line, and no star receiver opposite of Braylon Edwards, it’d be a shock if Anderson lasts the entire game against Cincinnati.
Glen Coffee to Be “Every Down” Back While Frank Gore is Out
This just goes to show you the trust the 49ers have in Coffee, and quite possibly the lack of trust they have in his back-up, Michael Robinson.
Coffee showed great vision and athleticism throughout the pre-season, and fought hard for 50+ yards on 25 carries against a stout Minnesota front line.
Expect a solid day with Coffee and the 49ers looking for revenge against the lowly Rams, and if you’ve already checked out our Week 4 fantasy start & sit column, you already know that he’s a must-start against St. Louis.
Saints Tackle Jammal Brown Out For Season
This could potentially impact the running game in the long run, but probably has more to do with Drew Brees future in 2009, than anything else.
Brown never recovered from multiple surgeries, and was only a good bet to start playing by mid-season, anyways.
While the loss hurts the Saints have been doing just fine without him up until now.
Chad Pennington Officially Put on IR
Pennington’s season was officially ended after the acquisition of Tyler Thigpen demanded a roster spot.
At 33 and with a history of shoulder injuries, it’s quite possible Pennington’s career could be over. He will wait to get a second opinion, but will ultimately need surgery down the road.
If he ever does make it back as a starter somewhere else, however, he could be a candidate for an unprecedented third “Comeback Player of the Year” award. Here’s to hoping, Chad.
