The Lions Matthew Stafford had a down year in 2013, in ...

Jul 07, 2014

The Lions Matthew Stafford had a down year in 2013, in part to drops. But some of those struggles were the result of the quarterback's inconsistent mechanics and occasionally questionable decision-making.

With a coaching staff dedicated to refining Stafford's technique, and an improved arsenal of weapons, it would be stunning if the Lions' franchise quarterback didn't take a step forward with his accuracy this season, while dropping his interception rate.

Fantasy Impact:

Stafford's mechanics have often come under fire and we've seen mixed results throughout his career. Still, the weapons around him are tempting enough to take a chance on Stafford as your fantasy QB this season, especially if you're set on not taking one of the Big 3 early in drafts. We rank Stafford 5th on our list, and he is among that second tier of QBs along with Nick Foles and Andrew Luck.

today

Report: Bucs could ride hot hand at running back

Jeremy Fowler

4 hours ago

The Buccaneers could ride the hot hand at running back Sunday against the Cardinals.

Fantasy Impact:

Bucky Irving could be on a pitch count Sunday, but Fowler reports the Buccaneers believe they need to score a win this week, with the team having lost three straight and only sitting a half-game ahead of the Panthers in the NFC South. Sean Tucker (12 rushes, 44 yards last week vs. Rams) and Rachaad White (7-38) have been splitting the work in Irving’s absence, but it sounds like the Bucs may be in a bit of desperation mode. It’s turning into division or bust for the Bucs. The 8-4 49ers hold the last playoff spot entering Sunday.

yesterday

Chargers rule out RB Omarion Hampton for Week 13

Adam Schefter

yesterday · 5:39 PM EST

Chargers ruled out RB Omarion Hampton for Sunday’s game vs the Raiders. Hampton hasn’t played since fracturing his ankle in week 5.

“It was a good week,” Chargers HC Jim Harbaugh told reporters today. “Really beneficial, ramping up. Everything’s on track to return, not this week.”

Related Players: Kimani Vidal, Jaret Patterson, Amar Johnson

Fantasy Impact:

Vidal should take lead back duties once again, but he doesn't likely have the talent to overcome the issues along the Chargers offensive line. Consider him a high-end RB3, even in what should be a great matchup.

Buccaneers to use all three running backs interchangeably in Week 13

Jenna Laine

yesterday · 4:15 PM EST

Todd Bowles on Bucky Irving’s usage Sunday: "We'll put him in. Once he gets in, we'll see how he is rolling, and then between him, Rachaad White and Sean Tucker, we'll kind of go with the hot hand."

Fantasy Impact:

We'd like to say Bucky Irving will return to his typical 25-opportunity upside, but it was mentioned that he may be eased in, as the team did with Chris Godwin. If that's the case, he's closer to a low-end RB2 than a locked-in RB1 like we came into the season hoping. Tucker and White are more desperation-FLEX options.