After an exciting opening weekend in the LFFL, there are a couple moves in the Power Poll as some teams are showing what may become glaring problems, and some are showing early season strength. Last week’s ranking listed in parentheses.
1) Akron Assault (1-0) (2) This is one powerful team, and it showed last week as the Assault beat on the Champs of Chewton. Even though the victory was by nearly 40 points, it could have been much, much worse as Akron actually left some big points on the bench (Frank Gore, 20pts). The McNabb-Owens connection may be fatal (combined 34pts), Larry Johnson will undoubtedly rebound, and Frank Gore could be an emerging star. The backups at WR and RB are a little thin, but until bye weeks roll around, the Assault will roll on.
2) Prospect Pioneers (0-1) (1) The Pioneers didn’t win last week’s opening game, but they’re fine really. Warner had no problem finding Boldin, and Reggie Wayne won’t be putting up only 4 points a week for very long. The key to last week’s loss was the poor production of Shaun Alexander (1.1 pt). Once Alexander returns to last week’s form, then Akron and Prospect can start going at it, in what should prove to be a two way battle for first all year long.
3) Wampum Wizards (1-0) (3) This is another good team that had sub par point production in week one. Make no mistake though, once Palmer starts putting up more than half a point (0.49 last week) this team will start hurting people. We’ll know in a couple weeks if Reggie Bush is the real deal. Michael Jenkins will plug a hole at the flex spot until Reuben Droughns gets his act together, plus there’s the always solid production you can count on from Joe Klopfenstein. It sure would be cool if Jeff Wilkins could hit six field goals a week.
4) Zelienople Zipperheads (1-0) (5) The Zips had a great first week and could prove to be a very solid team this year if they start to really click. Peyton Manning has always made whatever team he is on better than the sum of its parts. Also of interest, Trent Green lost his trade value with his injury, so he’ll ride the bench for the next few weeks before he finds a new home. There are some running back issues, Edgerrin James took a lot of carries to get those 73 yards and Fred Taylor is always seconds away from being done for the year. However, things are in a good place right now, and so are the Zips.
5) Allentown Iron Men (1-0) (7) The Iron Men had a rough first week, but still managed a W. Only two players worked into double digits, including Ronnie Brown, who had a great week, but didn’t rack up the yards. Perhaps he’ll fare better in the coming weeks against lesser defenses, or perhaps his two TD performance is an anomaly. Bulger should rebound from his 4 point performance, and it may be a week or two before we know if Roy Williams will be a big time receiver. Right now, the jury is still out on the defending champs and it can go either way.
6) Ellwood Dishsoaps (1-0) (9) The Power Poll said last week that this team would move up the rankings once they solidified the running back position. Well, after taking a small step toward shoring up the backfield with picking up Kevan Barlow, and the solid TD performance of Travis Henry, the Dishsoaps are in a little better position, both in the league and in the poll. Jerry Porter’s dickmoves are only hurting Ellwood- soon he’ll be looking for new work in both the NFL and the LFFL. Once Steve Smith’s two injured hamstrings heal, this team will continue their climb up the standings and the Power Poll.
7) Indiana Ignition (0-1) (4) The Power Poll really doesn’t like dropping the Ignition this far. This team has some real pluses: E. Manning, Ward and Fitzgerald will be fine, and Steven Jackson had a lot of carries and played well. However some concerns include Kevin Jones’ very poor showing last week, Joey Galloway’s lack of attention in the offense, and Deuce McAllister having to share time with Reggie Bush. Not a bad team, by any means, just a team with question marks.
8) Greenville Trojans (0-1) (10) We are less than a week into the season and the Trojans have already worked the waiver wire and free agent poll for 10 moves. The complexion of the lineup will be a little different this week, as last week’s disappointing starters Cadillac Williams and Amani Toomer have been benched and cut respectively. In week one action the Trojans lost the closest game in LFFL history to Ellwood (74.55 - 74.52). While Greentree can’t count on 25 points from Baltimore every week, this week’s roster changes may help them move on up.
9) Farrell Mooncrickets (0-1) (6) The Moonies have problems. Farrell has two black quarterbacks, and that may be two too many. Last week, Culpepper tossed two ugly INTs and backup Brooks passed for 68 yards before getting yanked in the 4th quarter. In addition to the lack of production at QB, they have a running back named Wali. Gonzalez was a bright spot, and that Atlanta defense is pretty good. However, you must worry about this team overall because of its running back situation, Dillon faces reduced carries with an emerging Maroney, and the play of the aforementioned Wali Lundy. It could be a long year for the Mooncrickets.
10) Chewton Champs (0-1) (8) Chewton practically gave Akron a bye last week, with their 45 point performance. Jake Delhomme had a terrible game and may be replaced by Chad Pennington this week, and LaMont Jordan was a huge disappointment and questions remain if he’ll be able to run at all this year behind such a terrible line as his team is always behind in ballgames. Donte’ Stallworth was a bright spot though, and may prove to be very valuable. The Champs are going to need to need to keep their games close, because they won’t be winning any 103 – 97 shootouts anytime soon, they need to be close in 74 - 68 contests.
Monday, September 11, 2006
Thursday, September 7, 2006
2006 LFFL Draft Results
Here are the results from the 2006 Leight Fantasy Football League Player Selection Meeting.
| Round 1 | ||
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Shaun Alexander (Was - RB) | Prospect Pioneers |
| 2. | Larry Johnson (Was - RB) | Akron Assault |
| 3. | LaDainian Tomlinson (NYJ - RB) | Wampum Wizards |
| 4. | Rudi Johnson (Det - RB) | Farrell Mooncrickets |
| 5. | Tiki Barber (NYG - RB) | Allentown Iron Men |
| 6. | LaMont Jordan (Den - RB) | Chewton Champs |
| 7. | Edgerrin James (Sea - RB) | Zelie Zipperheads |
| 8. | Steven Jackson (StL - RB) | Indiana Ignition |
| 9. | Carnell Williams (TB - RB) | Greentree Trojans |
| 10. | Steve Smith (Car - WR) | Ellwood Dishsoaps |
Round 2 | ||
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Marvin Harrison (Ind - WR) | Ellwood Dish... |
| 2. | Chad Ochocinco (Cin - WR) | Greentree Tr... |
| 3. | Larry Fitzgerald (Ari - WR) | Indiana Igni... |
| 4. | Peyton Manning (Ind - QB) | Zelie Zipper... |
| 5. | Clinton Portis (Was - RB) | Chewton Champs |
| 6. | Ronnie Brown (Mia - RB) | Allentown Ir... |
| 7. | Torry Holt (NE - WR) | Farrell Moon... |
| 8. | Carson Palmer (Cin - QB) | Wampum Wizards |
| 9. | Willis McGahee (Bal - RB) | Akron Assault |
| 10. | Reggie Wayne (Ind - WR) | Prospect Pio... |
Round 3 | ||
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Anquan Boldin (Bal - WR) | Prospect Pio... |
| 2. | Terrell Owens (Cin - WR) | Akron Assault |
| 3. | Randy Moss (NE - WR) | Wampum Wizards |
| 4. | Chris Chambers (KC - WR) | Farrell Moon... |
| 5. | Brian Westbrook (SF - RB) | Allentown Ir... |
| 6. | Santana Moss (Was - WR) | Chewton Champs |
| 7. | Julius Jones (Sea - RB) | Zelie Zipper... |
| 8. | Kevin Jones (Chi - RB) | Indiana Igni... |
| 9. | Willie Parker (Was - RB) | Greentree Tr... |
| 10. | Tom Brady (NE - QB) | Ellwood Dish... |
Round 4 | ||
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Matt Hasselbeck (Sea - QB) | Ellwood Dish... |
| 2. | Chester Taylor (Chi - RB) | Greentree Tr... |
| 3. | Hines Ward (Pit - WR) | Indiana Igni... |
| 4. | Plaxico Burress (NYG - WR) | Zelie Zipper... |
| 5. | Javon Walker (Min - WR) | Chewton Champs |
| 6. | Roy Williams (Dal - WR) | Allentown Ir... |
| 7. | Corey Dillon (NE - RB) | Farrell Moon... |
| 8. | Reggie Bush (NO - RB) | Wampum Wizards |
| 9. | Donovan McNabb (Was - QB) | Akron Assault |
| 10. | Warrick Dunn (TB - RB) | Prospect Pio... |
Round 5 | ||
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Antonio Gates (SD - TE) | Prospect Pio... |
| 2. | Joe Horn (NO - WR) | Akron Assault |
| 3. | Chicago (Chi - DEF) | Wampum Wizards |
| 4. | Tony Gonzalez (Atl - TE) | Farrell Moon... |
| 5. | Donald Driver (GB - WR) | Allentown Ir... |
| 6. | Jake Delhomme (Cle - QB) | Chewton Champs |
| 7. | Jeremy Shockey (NO - TE) | Zelie Zipper... |
| 8. | Eli Manning (NYG - QB) | Indiana Igni... |
| 9. | T.J. Houshmandzadeh (Bal - WR) | Greentree Tr... |
| 10. | Pittsburgh (Pit - DEF) | Ellwood Dish... |
Round 6 | ||
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Carolina (Car - DEF) | Ellwood Dish... |
| 2. | Deion Branch (Sea - WR) | Greentree Tr... |
| 3. | Joey Galloway (Was - WR) | Indiana Igni... |
| 4. | Darrell Jackson (Den - WR) | Zelie Zipper... |
| 5. | Donte' Stallworth (Bal - WR) | Chewton Champs |
| 6. | Marc Bulger (Bal - QB) | Allentown Ir... |
| 7. | Daunte Culpepper (Det - QB) | Farrell Moon... |
| 8. | Derrick Mason (Bal - WR) | Wampum Wizards |
| 9. | Kellen Winslow (TB - TE) | Akron Assault |
| 10. | DeShaun Foster (SF - RB) | Prospect Pio... |
Round 7 | ||
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Jamal Lewis (Cle - RB) | Prospect Pio... |
| 2. | Rod Smith (Den - WR) | Akron Assault |
| 3. | Reuben Droughns (NYG - RB) | Wampum Wizards |
| 4. | Wali Lundy (Hou - RB) | Farrell Moon... |
| 5. | Andre Johnson (Hou - WR) | Allentown Ir... |
| 6. | Thomas Jones (KC - RB) | Chewton Champs |
| 7. | Lee Evans (Buf - WR) | Zelie Zipper... |
| 8. | Deuce McAllister (NO - RB) | Indiana Igni... |
| 9. | Drew Bledsoe (Dal - QB) | Greentree Tr... |
| 10. | T.J. Duckett (Sea - RB) | Ellwood Dish... |
Round 8 | ||
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Nate Burleson (Det - WR) | Ellwood Dish... |
| 2. | Mike Bell (Phi - RB) | Greentree Tr... |
| 3. | Chris Cooley (Was - TE) | Indiana Igni... |
| 4. | Fred Taylor (NE - RB) | Zelie Zipper... |
| 5. | Todd Heap (Bal - TE) | Chewton Champs |
| 6. | Troy Williamson (Jac - WR) | Allentown Ir... |
| 7. | DeAngelo Williams (Car - RB) | Farrell Moon... |
| 8. | Muhsin Muhammad (Car - WR) | Wampum Wizards |
| 9. | Frank Gore (SF - RB) | Akron Assault |
| 10. | Kurt Warner (Ari - QB) | Prospect Pio... |
Round 9 | ||
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Terry Glenn (Dal - WR) | Prospect Pio... |
| 2. | Seattle (Sea - DEF) | Akron Assault |
| 3. | L.J. Smith (Bal - TE) | Wampum Wizards |
| 4. | Keyshawn Johnson (Car - WR) | Farrell Moon... |
| 5. | Joseph Addai (Ind - RB) | Allentown Ir... |
| 6. | Indianapolis (Ind - DEF) | Chewton Champs |
| 7. | Trent Green (StL - QB) | Zelie Zipper... |
| 8. | Matt Jones (Cin - WR) | Indiana Igni... |
| 9. | Laurence Maroney (NE - RB) | Greentree Tr... |
| 10. | Cedric Cobbs (Den - RB) | Ellwood Dish... |
Round 10 | ||
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Adam Vinatieri (Ind - K) | Ellwood Dish... |
| 2. | Randy McMichael (SD - TE) | Greentree Tr... |
| 3. | Dominic Rhodes (Buf - RB) | Indiana Igni... |
| 4. | Eddie Kennison (KC - WR) | Zelie Zipper... |
| 5. | Chris Brown (Hou - RB) | Chewton Champs |
| 6. | Alge Crumpler (NE - TE) | Allentown Ir... |
| 7. | Tampa Bay (TB - DEF) | Farrell Moon... |
| 8. | Neil Rackers (Hou - K) | Wampum Wizards |
| 9. | Brandon Lloyd (Den - WR) | Akron Assault |
| 10. | Cincinnati (Cin - DEF) | Prospect Pio... |
Round 11 | ||
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Reggie Brown (TB - WR) | Prospect Pio... |
| 2. | Braylon Edwards (NYJ - WR) | Akron Assault |
| 3. | Drew Bennett (Bal - WR) | Wampum Wizards |
| 4. | Ashley Lelie (KC - WR) | Farrell Moon... |
| 5. | Tatum Bell (Den - RB) | Allentown Ir... |
| 6. | Keenan McCardell (Was - WR) | Chewton Champs |
| 7. | New York (NYG - DEF) | Zelie Zipper... |
| 8. | Philadelphia (Phi - DEF) | Indiana Igni... |
| 9. | Antwaan Randle El (Pit - WR) | Greentree Tr... |
| 10. | Cedric Benson (Cin - RB) | Ellwood Dish... |
Round 12 | ||
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Heath Miller (Pit - TE) | Ellwood Dish... |
| 2. | Mike Anderson (Bal - RB) | Greentree Tr... |
| 3. | Marion Barber (Dal - RB) | Indiana Igni... |
| 4. | Ahman Green (GB - RB) | Zelie Zipper... |
| 5. | Samkon Gado (Ten - RB) | Chewton Champs |
| 6. | Michael Clayton (TB - WR) | Allentown Ir... |
| 7. | LenDale White (Den - RB) | Farrell Moon... |
| 8. | Brandon Jacobs (NYG - RB) | Wampum Wizards |
| 9. | Duce Staley (Pit - RB) | Akron Assault |
| 10. | Matt Leinart (Hou - QB) | Prospect Pio... |
Round 13 | ||
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Ernest Wilford (Jac - WR) | Prospect Pio... |
| 2. | Marty Booker (Atl - WR) | Akron Assault |
| 3. | Corey Bradford (Was - WR) | Wampum Wizards |
| 4. | Ben Roethlisberger (Pit - QB) | Farrell Moon... |
| 5. | Benjamin Watson (Cle - TE) | Allentown Ir... |
| 6. | Mike Vanderjagt (Dal - K) | Chewton Champs |
| 7. | Josh Brown (StL - K) | Zelie Zipper... |
| 8. | Kevin Curtis (Phi - WR) | Indiana Igni... |
| 9. | Chad Jackson (Buf - WR) | Greentree Tr... |
| 10. | Jake Plummer (TB - QB) | Ellwood Dish... |
Round 14 | ||
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Jerry Porter (Jac - WR) | Ellwood Dish... |
| 2. | Shayne Graham (Bal - K) | Greentree Tr... |
| 3. | Drew Brees (NO - QB) | Indiana Igni... |
| 4. | Michael Vick (Phi - QB) | Zelie Zipper... |
| 5. | Hank Baskett (Phi - WR) | Chewton Champs |
| 6. | Washington (Was - DEF) | Allentown Ir... |
| 7. | Joe Jurevicius (Cle - WR) | Farrell Moon... |
| 8. | Derrick Blaylock (Was - RB) | Wampum Wizards |
| 9. | John Kasay (Car - K) | Akron Assault |
| 10. | Jason Elam (Den - K) | Prospect Pio... |
Round 15 | ||
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Maurice Morris (Det - RB) | Prospect Pio... |
| 2. | Santonio Holmes (NYJ - WR) | Akron Assault |
| 3. | Byron Leftwich (Pit - QB) | Wampum Wizards |
| 4. | Dallas Clark (Ind - TE) | Farrell Moon... |
| 5. | Kevan Barlow (Pit - RB) | Allentown Ir... |
| 6. | Brett Favre (Min - QB) | Chewton Champs |
| 7. | Vernon Davis (SF - TE) | Zelie Zipper... |
| 8. | Jason Witten (Dal - TE) | Indiana Igni... |
| 9. | Chris Simms (Ten - QB) | Greentree Tr... |
| 10. | Jeff Reed (Pit - K) | Ellwood Dish... |
Round 16 | ||
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Koren Robinson (Sea - WR) | Ellwood Dish... |
| 2. | Baltimore (Bal - DEF) | Greentree Tr... |
| 3. | Jacksonville (Jac - DEF) | Indiana Igni... |
| 4. | Miami (Mia - DEF) | Zelie Zipper... |
| 5. | Jerramy Stevens (TB - TE) | Chewton Champs |
| 6. | Jay Feely (Ari - K) | Allentown Ir... |
| 7. | Atlanta (Atl - DEF) | Farrell Moon... |
| 8. | Buffalo (Buf - DEF) | Wampum Wizards |
| 9. | Vince Young (Ten - QB) | Akron Assault |
| 10. | Ryan Moats (Min - RB) | Prospect Pio... |
Round 17 | ||
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Mark Brunell (NYJ - QB) | Prospect Pio... |
| 2. | Jerome Harrison (Cle - RB) | Akron Assault |
| 3. | Jeff Wilkins (StL - K) | Wampum Wizards |
| 4. | Matt Stover (Ind - K) | Farrell Moon... |
| 5. | Laveranues Coles (NYJ - WR) | Allentown Ir... |
| 6. | Antonio Bryant (Cin - WR) | Chewton Champs |
| 7. | Isaac Bruce (StL - WR) | Zelie Zipper... |
| 8. | Michael Turner (Atl - RB) | Indiana Igni... |
| 9. | Sinorice Moss (NYG - WR) | Greentree Tr... |
| 10. | Bubba Franks (NYJ - TE) | Ellwood Dish... |
Round 18 | ||
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Travis Henry (Den - RB) | Ellwood Dish... |
| 2. | David Akers (Phi - K) | Greentree Tr... |
| 3. | Lawrence Tynes (NYG - K) | Indiana Igni... |
| 4. | Eric Moulds (Ten - WR) | Zelie Zipper... |
| 5. | Cleveland (Cle - DEF) | Chewton Champs |
| 6. | Vernand Morency (GB - RB) | Allentown Ir... |
| 7. | David Givens (Ten - WR) | Farrell Moon... |
| 8. | Joe Klopfenstein (Buf - TE) | Wampum Wizards |
| 9. | Jon Kitna (Dal - QB) | Akron Assault |
| 10. | Doug Gabriel (Cin - WR) | Prospect Pio... |
Tuesday, September 5, 2006
2006 LFFL Preseason Power Poll
With the season less than 48 hours away, the LFFL Power Poll would be remiss if it did not issue its annual preseason edition. Taking a look at how the teams are made up right now, it is obvious that there are contenders and pretenders in the LFFL.
The Power Poll will return with updated editions once the season starts and the games begin to separate the men from the boys. With that said, here we go…
1) Prospect Pioneers- It’s hard not to construct an outstanding team when you have the number one overall pick to build around. With that first pick in the draft, the Pioneers, led by veteran owner Dan Coulter, drafted Shaun Alexander. That is about all that needs to be said. Also in the backfield are running backs Warrick Dunn and DeShaun Foster. Wide receiver is also solid with Anquan Boldin leading the way, and the two Reggies (Brown and Wayne) also on board. In addition, Prospect can count on WR like numbers from tight end Antonio Gates. Quarterback is really the only iffy area, with Kurt Warner, but even then the Pioneers have Leinart and Brunell riding the bench. Top to bottom, this team is locked and loaded. The only question is not ‘will Prospect win?’ but rather, “how could they not?’
2) Akron Assault- In each year of existence the Akron Assault have finished in 7th place in the LFFL. This however, is a new year. Other than Duce Staley, there’s little to not like about this team. In fact, the only thing that keeps Akron and Prospect separated is the first string running back. In Alexander Prospect has a proven, reliable runner behind a solid line. With Larry Johnson, Akron has the most dominate player of last season, but with the smallest of questions marks with an offensive line in transition and a new coaching staff. That said, Akron is still an offensive juggernaut. Quarterback Donovan McNabb looks good, and the receiving corps led by TO should be solid as well. Kellen Winslow may be a stretch at tight end, but should he go over the handlebars again the Assault can always trade up. Though not as deep as Prospect, their starters have the potential to put up many, many points, and that should go far in ensuring a winning season for Akron and owner Ryan Alessio.
3) Wampum Wizards- First time LFFL owner Bill Orock has put together a very powerful football team. There is a mix of youth and veteran leadership that should elevate the Wizards to the top half of the league. Palmer, Moss and Tomlinson combine for a potentially devastating front three, and Reggie Bush has been touted as Jesus carrying the football. While Derrick Mason may be old, and Muhammad may play for Chicago, they are consistent, and Reuben Droughns will make for a solid fill in starter or flex position man. The Chicago defense is supposed to be the best in the game, and Neil Rackers has a laser cannon for a leg, meaning this team will be competitive at every position. Clearly, Orock knew what he was doing on draft day, and the Wizards of Wampum should be dealing damage all year long.
4) Indiana Ignition- Fact: Eli Manning passed for more yards last year than did brother Peyton. One person who knew this was Indiana Ignition owner Ryan Alexander. Eli will be QBing this year’s Ignition squad, and is joined by a Faulk-less Steven Jackson running the ball, and a dynamic duo of Hines Ward and Larry Fitzgerald catching the pigskin. Kevin Jones has the potential to become Jackson’s twin in Detriot, and Alexander hopes that he’ll be punching it in from the goal line all year long. This team is classic Alexander: solid everywhere.
5) Zelienople Zipperheads- For a team that didn’t put too much work into their draft prep, and had to make outside phone calls for help, this team isn’t all that bad. Yes, Zipperheads owner Tim Fleske is a first time LFFL owner, and yes, he drafted Fragile Fred Taylor, but really, they’re not that bad. Quarterback Peyton Manning will keep this team in the game and he looks to return to 04 form, and wide receivers Darrel Jackson and Plaxico Burress are solid fantasy players. At running back there are concerns about the productivity of a transplanted Edgerrin James running behind a swiss cheese line, and Julius Jones getting the yank in Big D, not to mention the very presence of Fred Taylor. However, those aren’t big enough problems yet to warrant panic, and on the surface this is an alright team that should keep it close every week.
6) Farrell Mooncrickets- This team probably should be at least a slot higher. The more you look at this roster, you can convince yourself that it is actually really good. Yes, there are question marks. Will Culpepper rebound? How long can Dillon stay on the first team? Is Wali Lundy the man? However, if the answers to those questions are “Yes,” “All year,” and “Most definitely,” then Farrell should rise from their historic home at the bottom of the standings. You’ve got to love Holt and Chambers at wide receiver, and Tony Gonzalez has too much talent to put forth another piss-poor season. Yes, these Mooncrickets may finally see the light of day.
7) Allentown Iron Men- The defending champion Allentown Iron Men are not a bad team. They’re not. They are however, the team with the most potential in all the league. That statement is a double edged sword, in that it could refer to potential to dominate, or potential to fall to Earth silently. Quarterback Marc Bulger has the potential to return to his old top five QB status, or the potential to become a middle of the pack signal caller. Tiki Barber has the potential to run for 2000 yards and 20 TDs, or the potential to be called to the sidelines at the goal line. Ronnie Brown has the potential to be the man in Miami finally, or the potential that the team will air it out non-stop. Brian Westbrook may catch and run for 1500 yards, or the Eagles will just throw for three downs straight as usual. Roy Williams may become the next Tory Holt under Mike Martz, or he could be the next first round pick cut from the team. With this team…it really could go either way. If everything lines up for Allentown, they’ll be bumping shoulders with Prospect and Akron. If too many potential pluses turn into negatives, they’ll be watching someone else hoist high the Leight Cup in December.
8) Chewton Champs- Not a bad team, but not a great team either. The Pica strategy of drafting drunk may not have paid off for the Champs. Quarterback Delhomme is a gun slinger, and may toss enough interceptions to negate his surplus of TDs over other quarterbacks, and no one really knows what to expect from Javon Walker and Donte Stallworth in their new homes. They may prove to be great successes, or marginal starters. Running back is a problem, as it will be nearly impossible for first round pick LaMont Jordan to duplicate last season’s success catching and running with the ball. Portis also remains an injury concern. The bench also is a problem, as it is not very deep. Hank Baskett and Sam Gado don’t exactly make you feel secure in Chewton’s chances this season.
9) Ellwood Dishsoaps- Odds are, the Dishsoaps won’t spend much time at the bottom of the Power Poll. Brady, Steve Smith, Marvin Harrison, these are all pluses…big pluses. However, this team lacks a legitimate first string running back. With taking QBs back to back and defenses back to back, the Dishsoaps passed up on two chances to take top running backs. Obviously, they plan on trading their surplus QB (Hasselbeck) and defense (Pittsburgh) for running backs, but that has yet to happen. Until they pull the trigger on a trade to gain a couple running backs, they will sit on the bottom of the poll.
10) Greenville Trojans- If the LFFL was a keeper league, you could argue that the Greenville Trojans are on the cusp of becoming a the most dominate team for the next four to five years. However, the LFFL isn’t a keeper league, and to win, you need players who are playing today. That is something the Trojans lack. Yes, Chad Johnson and TJ Houshmandzadeh are as good a one-two punch you’ll find. However, there are some areas of serious concern. Drew Bledsoe and his cement shoes could be yanked at any moment for Tony Romo, and the rest of the roster sports 4 rookies, 1 first year starter, and 1 wide receiver in the midst of a holdout. The starting lineup can put up points, but there is little room for error, as the bench looks more like a nursery than a locker room.
The Power Poll will return with updated editions once the season starts and the games begin to separate the men from the boys. With that said, here we go…
1) Prospect Pioneers- It’s hard not to construct an outstanding team when you have the number one overall pick to build around. With that first pick in the draft, the Pioneers, led by veteran owner Dan Coulter, drafted Shaun Alexander. That is about all that needs to be said. Also in the backfield are running backs Warrick Dunn and DeShaun Foster. Wide receiver is also solid with Anquan Boldin leading the way, and the two Reggies (Brown and Wayne) also on board. In addition, Prospect can count on WR like numbers from tight end Antonio Gates. Quarterback is really the only iffy area, with Kurt Warner, but even then the Pioneers have Leinart and Brunell riding the bench. Top to bottom, this team is locked and loaded. The only question is not ‘will Prospect win?’ but rather, “how could they not?’
2) Akron Assault- In each year of existence the Akron Assault have finished in 7th place in the LFFL. This however, is a new year. Other than Duce Staley, there’s little to not like about this team. In fact, the only thing that keeps Akron and Prospect separated is the first string running back. In Alexander Prospect has a proven, reliable runner behind a solid line. With Larry Johnson, Akron has the most dominate player of last season, but with the smallest of questions marks with an offensive line in transition and a new coaching staff. That said, Akron is still an offensive juggernaut. Quarterback Donovan McNabb looks good, and the receiving corps led by TO should be solid as well. Kellen Winslow may be a stretch at tight end, but should he go over the handlebars again the Assault can always trade up. Though not as deep as Prospect, their starters have the potential to put up many, many points, and that should go far in ensuring a winning season for Akron and owner Ryan Alessio.
3) Wampum Wizards- First time LFFL owner Bill Orock has put together a very powerful football team. There is a mix of youth and veteran leadership that should elevate the Wizards to the top half of the league. Palmer, Moss and Tomlinson combine for a potentially devastating front three, and Reggie Bush has been touted as Jesus carrying the football. While Derrick Mason may be old, and Muhammad may play for Chicago, they are consistent, and Reuben Droughns will make for a solid fill in starter or flex position man. The Chicago defense is supposed to be the best in the game, and Neil Rackers has a laser cannon for a leg, meaning this team will be competitive at every position. Clearly, Orock knew what he was doing on draft day, and the Wizards of Wampum should be dealing damage all year long.
4) Indiana Ignition- Fact: Eli Manning passed for more yards last year than did brother Peyton. One person who knew this was Indiana Ignition owner Ryan Alexander. Eli will be QBing this year’s Ignition squad, and is joined by a Faulk-less Steven Jackson running the ball, and a dynamic duo of Hines Ward and Larry Fitzgerald catching the pigskin. Kevin Jones has the potential to become Jackson’s twin in Detriot, and Alexander hopes that he’ll be punching it in from the goal line all year long. This team is classic Alexander: solid everywhere.
5) Zelienople Zipperheads- For a team that didn’t put too much work into their draft prep, and had to make outside phone calls for help, this team isn’t all that bad. Yes, Zipperheads owner Tim Fleske is a first time LFFL owner, and yes, he drafted Fragile Fred Taylor, but really, they’re not that bad. Quarterback Peyton Manning will keep this team in the game and he looks to return to 04 form, and wide receivers Darrel Jackson and Plaxico Burress are solid fantasy players. At running back there are concerns about the productivity of a transplanted Edgerrin James running behind a swiss cheese line, and Julius Jones getting the yank in Big D, not to mention the very presence of Fred Taylor. However, those aren’t big enough problems yet to warrant panic, and on the surface this is an alright team that should keep it close every week.
6) Farrell Mooncrickets- This team probably should be at least a slot higher. The more you look at this roster, you can convince yourself that it is actually really good. Yes, there are question marks. Will Culpepper rebound? How long can Dillon stay on the first team? Is Wali Lundy the man? However, if the answers to those questions are “Yes,” “All year,” and “Most definitely,” then Farrell should rise from their historic home at the bottom of the standings. You’ve got to love Holt and Chambers at wide receiver, and Tony Gonzalez has too much talent to put forth another piss-poor season. Yes, these Mooncrickets may finally see the light of day.
7) Allentown Iron Men- The defending champion Allentown Iron Men are not a bad team. They’re not. They are however, the team with the most potential in all the league. That statement is a double edged sword, in that it could refer to potential to dominate, or potential to fall to Earth silently. Quarterback Marc Bulger has the potential to return to his old top five QB status, or the potential to become a middle of the pack signal caller. Tiki Barber has the potential to run for 2000 yards and 20 TDs, or the potential to be called to the sidelines at the goal line. Ronnie Brown has the potential to be the man in Miami finally, or the potential that the team will air it out non-stop. Brian Westbrook may catch and run for 1500 yards, or the Eagles will just throw for three downs straight as usual. Roy Williams may become the next Tory Holt under Mike Martz, or he could be the next first round pick cut from the team. With this team…it really could go either way. If everything lines up for Allentown, they’ll be bumping shoulders with Prospect and Akron. If too many potential pluses turn into negatives, they’ll be watching someone else hoist high the Leight Cup in December.
8) Chewton Champs- Not a bad team, but not a great team either. The Pica strategy of drafting drunk may not have paid off for the Champs. Quarterback Delhomme is a gun slinger, and may toss enough interceptions to negate his surplus of TDs over other quarterbacks, and no one really knows what to expect from Javon Walker and Donte Stallworth in their new homes. They may prove to be great successes, or marginal starters. Running back is a problem, as it will be nearly impossible for first round pick LaMont Jordan to duplicate last season’s success catching and running with the ball. Portis also remains an injury concern. The bench also is a problem, as it is not very deep. Hank Baskett and Sam Gado don’t exactly make you feel secure in Chewton’s chances this season.
9) Ellwood Dishsoaps- Odds are, the Dishsoaps won’t spend much time at the bottom of the Power Poll. Brady, Steve Smith, Marvin Harrison, these are all pluses…big pluses. However, this team lacks a legitimate first string running back. With taking QBs back to back and defenses back to back, the Dishsoaps passed up on two chances to take top running backs. Obviously, they plan on trading their surplus QB (Hasselbeck) and defense (Pittsburgh) for running backs, but that has yet to happen. Until they pull the trigger on a trade to gain a couple running backs, they will sit on the bottom of the poll.
10) Greenville Trojans- If the LFFL was a keeper league, you could argue that the Greenville Trojans are on the cusp of becoming a the most dominate team for the next four to five years. However, the LFFL isn’t a keeper league, and to win, you need players who are playing today. That is something the Trojans lack. Yes, Chad Johnson and TJ Houshmandzadeh are as good a one-two punch you’ll find. However, there are some areas of serious concern. Drew Bledsoe and his cement shoes could be yanked at any moment for Tony Romo, and the rest of the roster sports 4 rookies, 1 first year starter, and 1 wide receiver in the midst of a holdout. The starting lineup can put up points, but there is little room for error, as the bench looks more like a nursery than a locker room.
Sunday, September 3, 2006
2006 LFFL Draft Photos
Photographs taken at the 2006 Leight Fantasy Football League Player Selection Meeting
Commissioner Todd Leight at the helm in the war room
Commissioner Todd Leight at the helm in the war room
Prospect Pioneers owner Dan Coulter celebrates his drafting running back Shaun Alexander first overall with a cigar
Akron Assault owner Ryan Alessio works the phones while drafting
Farrell Mooncrickets owner Danny Palumbo contemplates what move to make next
View of the war room
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