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Last Updated: Mon Dec 9, 2013, 8:27 PM

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-- NFL Red Zone & Overall Target Tables! --
Mon Dec 9, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

Looking for targeting information after the first 14 weeks of the season, but can't find it? Well, FFMastermind.com premium In-Season Weekly Newsletters subscribers have access to our Comprehensive NFL Targeting Tables each week. The first official cut of these tables debut on Monday and will be updated each week (Tuesdays) as we move along during the 2013 NFL season. We not only tell you how many targets players got in a game, but also how many RED ZONE targets as well as RED ZONE CATCHES! This information is critical information to be utilized when making mid-week fantasy player waiver moves. Log into your premium account and check it out now!

-- RGIII Could be Benched --
Mon Dec 9, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

NFL.com reports Washington Redskins HC Mike Shanahan says he won’t name QB Robert Griffin III the starter for the week yet because the Redskins are giving up too many sacks. “I want to make sure he’s healthy," he said. Shanahan says he'll make the starting quarterback decision by Wednesday based on whether he thinks it’s in the “best interest of the organization."

-- Redskins Looking Into Firing HC Mike Shanahan With Cause --
Mon Dec 9, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

The Washington Post reports the Washington Redskins were sorting through their options Monday regarding HC Mike Shanahan and one of the possibilities is firing Shanahan for cause and attempting to withhold the money due to him for the remainder of his contract, according to multiple people familiar with the situation. One person familiar with the matter said it was not clear what the team would do and added it was not certain the Redskins would take that approach even if they decide to dismiss Shanahan. According to this person, who spoke on the condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the topic, there were “a number of things on the table.” Several people with knowledge of the situation agreed it is likely that Shanahan and the Redskins will part ways by the end of the season, at the latest. The major remaining uncertainty, these people said, is how and when the divorce between Shanahan and the team will be crafted. Shanahan’s contract runs through next season and pays him approximately $7 million per year. It is believed that under normal circumstances, the Redskins would owe Shanahan the remainder of his contract if they fire him and he would forfeit the rest of his contract if he resigns. But if the Redskins fire him for cause, they could contend that Shanahan violated his contract and therefore forfeited his right to the money due to him under the deal, according to those people with knowledge of the matter. The Redskins likely would contend that Shanahan was involved in the dissemination of a report Sunday by ESPN that he considered quitting his job after last season because of the relationship between team owner Daniel Snyder and quarterback Robert Griffin III, according to those people.

-- Week #15: Sunday Night Waiver Wire & 4th & One Injury Report Released --
Sun Dec 8, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

SUNDAY 6:45 PM PT: Premium Newsletter Subscribers take note. The Week #15 Sunday Night Waiver Wire and 4th & One Injury Report have been released for your viewing pleasure. Be sure to check them out in your premium account before you make any free agent player moves this week!

-- Texans Fire HC Gary Kubiak --
Fri Dec 6, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN's Adam Schefter reports the Houston Texans have fired HC Gary Kubiak. DC Wade Phillips is the interim head coach. The new Texans head coach search is underway and team owner Bob McNair said some of the candidates are working with teams.

-- Josh McCown Will Start Monday Night --
Thu Dec 5, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

The Dallas Morning News reports Chicago Bears QB Josh McCown will start on Monday night against the Cowboys.

-- Mike Tomlin Fined $100K for Sideline Incident; Steelers Could Lose Draft Picks --
Wed Dec 4, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN reports the NFL on Wednesday fined Pittsburgh Steelers HC Mike Tomlin $100,000 for interfering with a kickoff return in last Thursday night's game vs. the Baltimore Ravens. In addition, the league said it will consider a forfeiture of draft choices for the Steelers because Tomlin's conduct affected a play on the field. The league said Tomlin's actions, in which he was standing on the white stripe that borders the playing field and took a step onto the field during WR Jacoby Jones' kickoff return, should have resulted in a 15-yard unsportsmanlike conduct penalty. Tomlin apologized for his actions Tuesday and said he would accept whatever punishment the NFL decided to hand out to him, although he continued to maintain that he had no intentions of affecting the play on the field.

-- ALL INJURY NEWS GOES PREMIUM! --
Sun Sep 1, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

Looking for the very latest Injury Quick Bits this season? FFMastermind.com is proud to bring Premium Injury Quick Bits for your viewing pleasure! While our usual Quick Bits feature will continue to exist as a totally FREE feature throughout the season, since week #1 we have shifted all of our INJURY Quick Bits to a special premium feature. When combined with our special 4th & One Injury Reports, subscribers to our Weekly In-Season Newsletter will get a huge advantage over the competition in their league. Patrons to our site shouldn't be left out in the cold! Order the Weekly In-Season Fantasy Newsletter for only $15.95 (mid-season sale!) now to ensure access to this special feature EACH DAY OF THE SEASON!

Last Updated: Mon Dec 9, 2013, 8:27 PM

-- NFL Red Zone & Overall Target Tables! --
Mon Dec 9, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

-- Patriots IR Gronk; Re-Sign One --
Mon Dec 9, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN report the New England Patriots have placed TE Rob Gronkowski (knee) on injured reserve, ending his season. The team also re-signed TE D.J. Williams.

-- Matt McGloin Will Start This Week --
Mon Dec 9, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

The Contra Costa Times reports Raiders HC Dennis Allen said QB Matt McGloin will be the starting quarterback against the Kansas City Chiefs this Sunday.

-- RGIII Could be Benched --
Mon Dec 9, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

-- Redskins IR Evan Royster --
Mon Dec 9, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN reports the Washington Redskins have placed RB Evan Royster (ankle) on injured reserve, ending his season.

-- Jaguars IR Two --
Mon Dec 9, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN reports the Jacksonville Jaguars have placed RB Justin Forsett (foot) and WR Stephen Burton (concussion) on injured reserve, ending their seasons.

-- Vikings IR Kyle Rudolph --
Mon Dec 9, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

VikingsUpdatye.com reports the Minnesota Vikings have placed TE Kyle Rudolph (foot) on injured reserve, ending his season.

-- ALL INJURY NEWS GOES PREMIUM! --
Mon Dec 9, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

Looking for the very latest Injury Quick Bits this season? FFMastermind.com is proud to bring Premium Injury Quick Bits for your viewing pleasure! While our usual Quick Bits feature will continue to exist as a totally FREE feature throughout the season, since week #1 we have shifted all of our INJURY Quick Bits to a special premium feature. When combined with our special 4th & One Injury Reports, subscribers to our Weekly In-Season Newsletter will get a huge advantage over the competition in their league. Patrons to our site don't have to be left out in the cold! Order the Weekly In-Season Fantasy Newsletter for only $15.95 (mid-season sale!) now to ensure access to this special feature EACH DAY OF THE SEASON!

-- Redskins Looking Into Firing HC Mike Shanahan With Cause --
Mon Dec 9, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

-- Jaguars Sign Delone Carter --
Mon Dec 9, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN reports the Jacksonville Jaguars have signed free-agent RB Delone Carter.

-- Texans HC Search Update --
Mon Dec 9, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

The Houston Chronicle reports the Texans won’t pursue Redskins HC Mike Shanahan even if he’s fired by the Redskins. ESPN's Jon Gruden is not on the list compiled by Texans owner Bob McNair. Former Bears HC Lovie Smith, Chargers OC Ken Whisenhunt and Stanford’s David Shaw are mentioned in his report, though McNair listed NFL experience as a factor for his next coach.

-- Jeff Ireland Going Nowhere --
Mon Dec 9, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

The Miami Herald reports Dolphins GM Jeff Ireland has received assurances from owner Stephen Ross that his job was safe.

-- Montee Ball Plays Season-High Snaps on Sunday --
Mon Dec 9, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

PFF reports Denver Broncos RB Montee Ball played a season-high 43-of-98 snaps (44%) on Sunday against the Titans.

-- Da'Rick Rogers Plays 41 Snaps Sunday --
Mon Dec 9, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

PFF reports Indianapolis Colts WR Da'Rick Rogers played 41-of-60 snaps (68%) on Sunday against the Bengals.

-- Dennis Pitta Plays 36 Snaps Sunday --
Mon Dec 9, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

PFF reports Baltimore Ravens TE Dennis Pitta played 36-of-85 snaps (42% percent) on Sunday against the Vikings.

-- Ladarius Green Used Sparingly in Passing Game --
Mon Dec 9, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

PFF reports San Diego Chargers TE Ladarius Green ran just five passing routes on Sunday against the Giants. Green played on only 42% of the snaps, likely due to the return of WR Eddie Royal (40 snaps). Green was used often as a blocker, and caught no passes on only one target.

-- Download the FREE UPGRADED FFMastermind.com Quick Bits App! --
Mon Dec 9, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

The masses asked for it, now you got it! The UPGRADED iPhone, iPad, & iPod compatible App from FFMastermind.com has been released! Download the FFMastermind.com UPGRADED Quick Bits App HERE and let us know what you think of it with a review! This App covers our NFL Quick Bits feature with a comprehensive search feature. In addition, Team News in a team-by-team format and for the league has been added! We are very excited about our new Upgraded App! Check it out!

-- Titans RB/WR Snap Count Watch --
Mon Dec 9, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

The Nashville Tennessean reports Titans WR Nate Washington (39 of 50 snaps) led the wideout corps in snaps played at Denver on Sunday. WR Kendall Wright plays 38 snaps, while WR Justin Hunter also played 38 snaps. Former practice squad player WR Michael Preston was active ahead of WR Kenny Britt, and played 9 snaps. RB Chris Johnson played 30 snaps with one score, while RB Shonn Greene played 16 snaps and scored twice.

-- Texan Set to Interview Lovie Smith --
Mon Dec 9, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

The Houston Chronicle reports former Bears HC Lovie Smith is expected to be the first candidate interviewed for the Houston Texans head coaching vacancy.

-- Colts IR Chris Rainey; Sign Tashard Choice --
Mon Dec 9, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN reports the Indianapolis Colts have placed RB Chris Rainey (undisclosed) on injured reserve, ending his season. THe team also signed veteran free-agent RB Tashard Choice.

-- Patriots RB/WR Snap Count Watch --
Mon Dec 9, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN reports for the second week in a row, New England Patriots RB Shane Vereen (44 of 82 snaps) had the high total among running backs and it seems like that will be a trend that continues because he adds a different dimension to the passing game. While the numbers skew heavier to Vereen because the Patriots were in their hurry-up offense late, with him playing the final 15 snaps, he still was in a lead position (29 snaps) over RB LeGarrette Blount (21) and RB Stevan Ridley (17) entering the final two hurry-up drives. TE Rob Gronkowski was back to playing every snap, a sign that he was essentially all the way back from his prior injuries, before he was carted off after taking a shot to his right knee. The 39 snaps were a season high for TE Matthew Mulligan, eclipsing his 36-snap total from last week in Houston. Mulligan has seen his snaps rise in recent weeks. At receiver, rookie WR Josh Boyce (72 snaps) filled in for injured rookies WR Aaron Dobson and WR Kenbrell Thompkins as the outside X target. He had been charted on the field for 71 snaps through the season’s first 12 games. He surpassed the total by one in this single game. WR Julian Edelman (all 82 snaps) was the top receiver, with WR Danny Amendola (62 snaps) mostly coming on as the third option in three-receiver packages.

-- Josh Gordon Sets Browns Season Yardage Record Mark --
Mon Dec 9, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

The Beacon Journal reports Browns WR Josh Gordon set the franchise single-season receiving yardage record, getting the 41 yards he needed with 48 seconds remaining in the second quarter. Suspended for the first two games for a violation of the league’s substance abuse policy, Gordon finished with seven catches for 151 yards and a total of 1,400 yards, needing just 11 games to break the mark held by WR Braylon Edwards (1,289 in 2007). “It means nothing to me if we can’t win as a team while doing it,” Gordon said in a statement from the team. Gordon’s 774 receiving yards in the past four games is a league record, according to the Elias Sports Bureau, and his seven 100-yard games are a team record. He is the only Browns receiver to hit 100 yards in four consecutive games and the first Brown to notch a touchdown catch in four in a row since WR Kevin Johnson in 2001.

-- Matt Prater Nails 64-Yard Record-Setting FG --
Mon Dec 9, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN reports Denver Broncos PK Matt Prater's 64-yard FG Sunday set an NFL record, and gave the Broncos a tidy boost along the way as they went on to a 51-28 victory at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. "Such an awesome moment, I'm glad it came in a win," Prater said. "It was crazy, it was awesome because almost the whole team rushed the field after that kick. It definitely was a momentum swing." Added HC John Fox: "No doubt it energized our team." Prater's kick broke the previous NFL record of 63 yards, held by PK Tom Dempsey (1970), former Broncos PK Jason Elam (1998), PK Sebastian Janikowski (2011) and David Akers ('12). Janikowski had also missed on a 64-yard attempt in 2007, and a 76-yard attempt in '08. Three of the five kicks of at least 63 yards have been made in Denver, as Elam's and Janikowski's 63-yarders were also made at the Broncos' home stadium, which sits at an elevation of 5,280 feet. It was the 20th kick of at least 50 yards in Prater's career. He's now 20-of-26 on attempts of at least 50 yards, the most accurate mark since the AFL-NFL merger in 1970 for kickers with at least 20 of those attempts.

-- Shanahan Refuses to Name Starting QB for Next Week --
Sun Dec 8, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN reports Washington Redskins HC Mike Shanahan pulled QB Robert Griffin III from Sunday's game at the start of the fourth quarter. That was understandable. What Shanahan wouldn't say is whether Griffin will return to the starting lineup for Sunday's game at Atlanta. It's not as if either quarterback played a good game. Griffin completed 12 of 26 passes for 164 yards, one touchdown and an interception. Backup QB Kirk Cousins completed 7 of 16 passes for 59 yards. "We'll talk about that later," Shanahan said. "That's with anybody in any position. We'll look at injuries, we'll look at where we are and what direction we're going." Griffin said he had no doubts he'd start next week. "That's not an issue," he said.

-- Week #15: Sunday Night Waiver Wire & 4th & One Injury Report Released --
Sun Dec 8, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

-- Big Changes Coming for Titans --
Sun Dec 8, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

NFL.com reports the Tennessee Titans are expected to possibly clean house after the 2013 season. HC Mike Munchak is coaching for his job right now. The team is expected to release RB Chris Johnson after the season, and target QB Jay Cutler in free agency. The Titans aren't expected to pick up QB Jake Locker's $13 million club option in 2015.

-- HC Mike Shanahan Nearly Left Redskins Last January --
Sun Dec 8, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN reports as speculation mounts about HC Mike Shanahan's future in Washington, details have emerged about the coach's dissatisfaction with the relationship between owner Dan Snyder and QB Robert Griffin III. Disillusioned with the way Snyder was running the organization, Shanahan cleaned out his office in advance of January's wild-card playoff game against the Seattle Seahawks and expected to leave the team whenever the season ended, according to a source who spoke on the condition of anonymity. The source said Shanahan had grown tired of the way Snyder empowered Griffin and openly esteemed him above all other players. Shanahan didn't blame Griffin but did blame Snyder for creating an atmosphere that Shanahan did not believe was conducive to winning. Shanahan privately told people close to him that he felt Snyder's behavior with regard to Griffin was a "complete farce." In spite of that, Shanahan believed he would be leaving the team on a very positive note, as the Redskins had won the NFC East in his third year as their coach and were preparing for a playoff run. He believed the team had come together and shown strong character during the seven-game winning streak on which it ended the regular season. But when Griffin injured his knee in that playoff loss, a source said, Shanahan changed his plans. He believed leaving at that point was no longer an option. He didn't want the general public, or possibly even his players, to think he left because of Griffin's injury.

-- Stevan Ridley Expected to Play in Second Quarter Today --
Sun Dec 8, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

CBS Sports reports the New England Patriots are expected to turn to RB Stevan Ridley in second quarter today against the Browns. If he plays well, he could end up with a larger role today and beyond.

-- Weather a Factor Again for Week #14 --
Sat Dec 7, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

NBC Sports reports weather for Week #14 could be a factor in Baltimore, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Cincinnati, Green Bay, Washington, and Denver. In Baltimore, where the Ravens host the Vikings, the forecast calls for temperatures in the low 30s and snow. The wind is projected to be under 10 miles per hour. In Philadelphia, snow could arrive for the second half of the Lions-Eagles game. Temperatures will be in the low 30s, with light winds. On the other side of the Commonwealth, light snow and temperatures in the high 20s will be present throughout the game between the Dolphins and Steelers. The wind is predicted to be in the range of 11 miles per hour. In Cincinnati, light snow will turn to freezing drizzle during the game between the Colts and the Bengals, with temperatures hovering near freezing. The wind will be in the range of 10 miles per hour. In Green Bay, the Falcons won’t get to swap a road game in the elements for a dome game. When Atlanta faces the Packers snow will be falling at Lambeau Field with temperatures in the teens. In Washington, snow will give way to a wintry mix, with the temperature holding steady at 32 and the winds under 10 miles per hour. Finally, the Titans won’t get their wish for snow in Denver. While it’ll be sunny, it also will be cold for the game against the Broncos, with a temperature in the teens and light winds. For Browns-Patriots in Foxboro and Raiders-Jets in New Jersey, the temperature will be in the low 30s but no precipitation or significant wind is in the forecast.

-- Source: Ridley Will be Active Sunday, But... --
Sat Dec 7, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

MassLive.com reports while it's not known what kind of role he will be given, barring an overnight change, it is expected that New England Patriots RB Stevan Ridley will be active for Sunday's game against the Cleveland Browns, according to a source.

-- Week #14: Picks to Click/Flick & Fantasy Reaches --
Sat Dec 7, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

12/7/2013 - Michael Nazarek: As the week has developed, some players on my first list may no longer be a click and some may no longer be a flick. In addition, other players may have emerged as clicks or flicks. Thus, this UPDATE has been born. In addition, I'm going to offer up some fantasy reaches to consider for owners in larger leagues that find themselves in a real bind due to injuries or other situations. It is my hope that this feature clarifies where I stand with regard to the following player potential for this week... [Picks to Click/Flick & Fantasy Reaches]

-- Lions Make Player Moves --
Sat Dec 7, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

The Detroit Free Press reports the Lions have signed CB Chris Greenwood off their practice squad, and released KR Micheal Spurlock.

-- Steelers Activate Matt Spaeth; Release One --
Sat Dec 7, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN reports the Pittsburgh Steelers have activated TE Matt Spaeth (foot - IRDFR) from the injured reserve designated for return list. The team also waived TE Richard Gordon.

-- Ravens Activate Dennis Pitta; Release One --
Sat Dec 7, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

USA Today reports the Baltimore Ravens have activated TE Dennis Pitta (hip - IRDFR) from the injured reserve designated for return list. The team also waived RB Bernard Scott.

-- Chargers Activate Melvin Ingram; Release One --
Sat Dec 7, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

The San Diego Chargers official website reports the Chargers have activated LB Melvin Ingram (knee - PUP) from the physically unable to perform list. The make room for Ingram on the roster, the team released LB Adrian Robinson.

-- Week #14 Premium Player Rankings Updated! --
Sat Dec 7, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

Saturday 12:15 PM PT: Premium Weekly Newsletter subscribers take note. Our Fantasy Player Rankings for week #14 have been UPDATED for your viewing pleasure. Players on the following teams have been adjusted/commented about due to injury and other concerns: Arizona, Cleveland, Minnesota, Carolina, Oakland, Tampa Bay, Seattle, Kansas City, Tennessee, and Cincinnati. Make sure you log into your premium account to check them out and ensure you maximize the scoring potential of your starting lineup! Good luck this week!

-- Chiefs Make Player Moves --
Sat Dec 7, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN reports the Kansas City Chiefs have promoted TE Dominique Jones from their practice squad and released WR Chad Hall.

-- Jared Cook Knows He Can Be Better --
Sat Dec 7, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports Rams TE Jared Cook is on pace to establish career highs in catches, yards and touchdowns. With four games remaining in 2013, he already has more reception yards (557) in one season than any Rams tight end since the team moved to St. Louis in 1995. He needs eight more catches to establish a “St. Louis” Rams single-season high for receptions by a tight end. And he leads the 2013 squad in receptions (40) and yards 12 games into the season. Nonetheless, the prevailing opinion is that Cook has had a disappointing first season with the Rams after signing a five-year, $35.1 million free-agent deal last March following his first four seasons in Tennessee. In a sense, Cook is victim of his stellar Rams debut. In the season opener against Arizona, he caught seven passes for 141 yards and two touchdowns. The 141 yards was an all-time single-game record for a Rams tight end. That is what’s called setting the bar high. “What that game did for him is, obviously, it made people aware of him,” OC Brian Schottenheimer said. “He gathers a lot of attention in the passing game, but we’ve got a lot of weapons. The design of the plays is with multiple progressions in mind, and sometimes he’s not the first progression and he’s open and the ball goes someplace else.” But Cook has caught only two TD passes total over the next 11 games, and caught no more than five passes for no more than 80 yards in any other game. “If you know football, everybody knows it’s any given Sunday,” Cook said. “It’s going to be hard to put up numbers like that every single week — just in terms of how defenses scheme and how defenses play against you.” Even so, Cook concedes that he expected more from himself. “Some games just got away,” he said. “Some games you feel like you could’ve played better. A lot of times there’s nothing you can do about it. You’ve just got to keep playing and keep pushing forward.” He takes little solace in the fact that he’s the most productive tight end in the 19 seasons of the “St. Louis” Rams. “That doesn’t make me satisfied at all,” he said. “I just have to improve in the areas of my play because I feel like I can help this team some more.” The to-do list is wide-ranging, from being more physical getting off the line of scrimmage, to becoming more consistent catching the ball, to improving his blocking.

-- LeSean McCoy Not Barry Sanders --
Sat Dec 7, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

NBC Sports reports Philadelphia Eagles RB LeSean McCoy has heard the comparisons between himself and RB Barry Sanders. But McCoy doesn’t particularly agree with those comparisons. McCoy says it’s flattering that his elusive running style is sometimes compared to the former Lion and Hall of Famer, but McCoy also acknowledges that his own body of work is nowhere close to what Sanders accomplished in the NFL. “I don’t really see it as a comparison,” McCoy said, via Philly.com. “I think Barry is probably the best running back to ever play this game. They compare us probably because of the cutbacks, but there is still a big gap between us two.”

-- Texans Want New Head Coach with NFL Experience --
Sat Dec 7, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

NBC Sports reports Houston Texans owner Bob McNair apparently isn’t looking for the next Chip Kelly. McNair said after firing HC Gary Kubiak that his successor will be someone who has experience in the NFL. That would rule out hiring someone like Kelly, who jumped from Oregon to the Eagles last year having no NFL experience at all. “We would like someone who has had head coaching experience, but has also had NFL experience,” McNair said. “It’s a combination of those two things would be the ideal situation and there are people who meet those conditions.”

-- Week #14: Final Fantasy Thoughts --
Fri Dec 6, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

Premium Weekly Fantasy Newsletter subscribers take note. FFMastermind.com's Michael Nazarek offers his Final Fantasy Thoughts for the week on Friday. In week #14's edition, Nazarek discusses the fantasy situation surrounding Arizona Cardinals QB Carson Palmer (elbow), Oakland Raiders RB Rashad Jennings (concussion), and Tampa Bay Buccaneers WR Vincent Jackson (hamstring), as well as other injury situations around the league. Who do you start and who do you sit? Log into your premium account to find out!

-- Texans Fire Joe Marciano --
Fri Dec 6, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

The Houston Chronicle reports the Texans have dismissed special teams coach Joe Marciano and replaced him with assistant special teams coach Bob Ligashesky.

-- Raiders IR Kaluka Maiava; Sign One --
Fri Dec 6, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

CSNBayArea.com reports the Oakland Raiders have placed LB Kaluka Maiava (ribs, calf) on injured reserve, ending his season. The team also signed LB Marshall McFadden from their practice squad.

-- Matt Flynn Will Start This Week --
Fri Dec 6, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

NFL.com reports Green Bay Packers QB Matt Flynn will start this week against the Falcons.

-- Case Keenum Will Start Next Week --
Fri Dec 6, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

The Houston Texans official website reports the Texans have announced that QB Case Keenum will start next week against the Colts.

-- Matt Cassel Will Start This Week --
Fri Dec 6, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

The Star Tribune reports Vikings QB Matt Cassel will start against the Ravens this week.

-- Sign Up for Free Fantasy Newsletters! --
Fri Dec 6, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

Wondering what information we pack into our free e-mail fantasy newsletters each month? How about the latest NFL news? Or maybe the latest upgrades to our site? Previews of coming attractions? Links to the hottest pages at FFMastermind.com? Special offers made exclusively to free mailer recipients? Yes, to all of the above and occasional FREE SNEAK PEEKS into a portion of our premium services too! What are they? Only those who have signed up to receive the newsletter know and we're not telling! Just click HERE, submit the form with your e-mail address, and we'll send you exactly what we send them! You'll get your FREE SNEAK PEEKS, but most importantly, you'll be kept well informed by the Definitive Fantasy Football Information Service all year round! What more can you ask?

-- Texans Fire HC Gary Kubiak --
Fri Dec 6, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

-- King: Texans Expected to Fire HC Gary Kubiak Today --
Fri Dec 6, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

SI.com's Peter King reports that he expects the Houston Texans to fire HC Gary Kubiak on Friday.

-- Brandon Marshall Hates the Match-up with Brandon Carr --
Fri Dec 6, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

The Dallas Morning News reports Cowboys CB Brandon Carr will often be matched up against Bears WR Brandon Marshall this week. Marshall said Thursday that he’s not looking forward to it. “I don’t like playing against Brandon Carr,” Marshall said. “He presents a lot of tough challenges throughout a game. You’ll notice he changes up his game when he plays against bigger receivers. He’s strong. He’s physical. He plays that way against guys like myself. I absolutely hate the matchup. It’s like playing chess out there with him. Every single play is a battle. He just makes you work so hard.” Marshall is also tied for sixth in the NFL – along with Cowboys WR Dez Bryant – with nine touchdown receptions. Marshall said that Jeffery’s improved play has helped him. Jeffery is coming off a game last week at Minnesota in which he caught 12 passes for 249 yards and two touchdowns. “Teams now have to play fair,” Marshall said. “He’s starting to put on tape and show the NFL that the Chicago Bears have two wide receivers that can dominate, so if you want to double me or roll coverage, Alshon is going to be on the other side, licking his chops and taking advantage of each opportunity.”

-- More Jail Time Given to Alfonzo Dennard for Parole Violation --
Fri Dec 6, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

The Boston Globe reports Patriots CB Alfonzo Dennard will be going to jail for a longer period of time, must spend twice as many hours doing community service, had his probation extended by one year, and must refrain from consuming alcohol. The cornerback will, however, be allowed to continue playing this season for the Patriots. According to the Lincoln (Neb.) Journal Star, which had a reporter in the courtroom, Dennard had his probation modified Thursday, but the 30 days added to his original 30-day jail sentence won’t change the date on which he’s scheduled to begin serving the time, which is March 1, after the football season. The new 60-day jail sentence could be reduced to 38 days with good behavior. Dennard was appearing before Judge Stephanie Stacy in Lancaster County Court for a probation hearing. After rejecting Dennard’s request for another continuance, Stacy handed down the new sentence: In addition to the 60 days, Dennard must perform an additional 100 hours of community service, and will be on probation for an extra year. Stacy also imposed a no-alcohol provision. Before Dennard left the courtroom, according to the newspaper, Stacy told him, “I want you to know this is your last chance.” Dennard, who played at Nebraska, admitted in September to violating his probation, which was part of his original sentence for a felony assault conviction earlier this year. Dennard was then arrested in July, also in Nebraska, on a charge of driving under the influence, prompting the probation hearing.

-- Case Keenum Benched --
Thu Dec 5, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

NFL.com reports Houston Texans QB Case Keenum was benched for QB Matt Schaub in the third quarter of tonight's game against the Jaguars.

-- Josh McCown Will Start Monday Night --
Thu Dec 5, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

The Dallas Morning News reports Chicago Bears QB Josh McCown will start on Monday night against the Cowboys.

-- Steelers Unlikely to Lose Draft Picks --
Thu Dec 5, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

The Post Gazette reports the Steelers are unlikely to be penalized any draft picks as a result of HC Mike Tomlin's sideline incident.

-- Patriots Re-Sign Austin Collie --
Thu Dec 5, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

The Boston Herald reports the Patriots have re-signed veteran free-agent WR Austin Collie.

-- Wayne: T-Rich Feels Rushed to Learn a New System --
Wed Dec 4, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

StampedBlue.com reports earlier this week, the Colts responded to an NFL.com report that OC Pep Hamilton was feeling the heat from within the Colts organization. On Tuesday, Colts WR Reggie Wayne - who is on injured reserve recovering from a knee injury - spoke about RB Trent Richardson on his weekly radio show. When asked if Richardson had come to Wayne seeking advice on how to deal with the benching, Wayne responded [emphasis mine]: "He came to me, he wasn't pouting or anything. This was the next day after he found out he was demoted and he said, "Now I can sit back and actually watch the way it's supposed to be done." He kind of feels that he was maybe forced into it early without actually learning it." There's some truth to this. Richardson was traded to the Colts by the Browns in exchange for a first round pick in 2014. That trade happened on Wednesday, September 18th. The Colts introduced Richardson that Thursday, and then Saturday the team was flying to San Francisco to take on the 49ers. Richardson had to learn the playbook with QB Andrew Luck sitting next to him on the 6-plus hour flight to SF. Then, on Sunday, September 22nd, Richardson played. That's a pretty crazy turnaround. Still, as Wayne later said in his discussion regarding Richardson, this is the "nature of the beast." Crazy, unpredictable change is part of life in the NFL. You should know that going in. No one is going to have sympathy for a player, especially a running back, who cannot adapt and adjust quickly to change. Part of it is a bad o-line. Part of it is a lack of familiarity with the offensive scheme. Part of it is Richardson just playing poorly. Wayne's advice to T-Rich on how to deal with the demotion? "Do better. Practice harder. Study longer." Sound advice.

-- Week #14 Premium Player Rankings Released! --
Wed Dec 4, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

Wednesday 6:00 PM PT: Premium Weekly Newsletter subscribers take note. Have an early lineup deadline? No problem! The initial Fantasy Player Rankings for Week #14 (Non-PPR, PPR, & IDP sets) of the 2013 NFL season have been released for your viewing pleasure. FFMastermind.com prides itself on being one of the few newsletters on the market to release player rankings EVERY WEDNESDAY. Of course, we'll also be updating these rankings on Saturday afternoons with the latest injury news and notes as well. Log into your premium account and Enjoy.

-- Week #14: The Market Debuts! --
Wed Dec 4, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

Tuesday - 12/3/2013: Premium Weekly Fantasy Newsletter subscribers take note. Your wait is OVER! The most important portion of the newsletter has been released for your viewing pleasure. The Market is back! FFMastermind.com's Michael Nazarek ranked the following potential free agents in tonight' Market release: 13 QBs, 22 RBs, 22 WRs, 15 TEs, 10 PKs, and 5 Team Defenses. In-depth player analysis was included with each player ranked. In addition, Nazarek provided 21 trading and free-agent tips for fantasy owners. Log into your premium account to check it out now!

-- Bills Sign Tony Moeaki --
Wed Dec 4, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN reports the Buffalo Bills have signed free-agent TE Tony Moeaki to a two-year contract.

-- Redskins IR Maurice Hurt --
Wed Dec 4, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN reports the Washington Redskins have placed OG Maurice Hurt (knee) on injured reserve, ending his season.

-- Buccaneers IR Jonathan Casillas; Sign One --
Wed Dec 4, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN reports the Tampa Bay Buccaneers have placed LB Jonathan Casillas (knee) on injured reserve, ending his season. The team also signed LB Danny Lansanah off the New York Jets' practice squad.

-- Lions Work Out Kickers; Still Only Employ David Akers --
Wed Dec 4, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

The Detroit News reports the practice facility has looked like a convention for out of work kickers the last couple of days. But as of Tuesday night, the only placekicker employed by the Lions remains PK David Akers. The team worked out three kickers on Monday, including PK Havard Rugland, and three more kickers on Tuesday, including PK Shayne Graham. None were signed. Akers, who is 14 of 19 in field-goal attempts with two blocks after missing a 31-yard field goal against the Packers, was not available to the media Tuesday. HC Jim Schwartz said the workouts were a normal part of business and not meant as a warning or wake-up call to Akers.

-- 17 Fantasy Football Titles! --
Wed Dec 4, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

FFMastermind.com Super Bowl premium package subscriber Michael Valders gets to the point real quick concerning his 17 Fantasy Football Titles. Patrons considering a subscription should check out what Michael has to say!

-- Bears Don't Want to Franchise Cutler --
Wed Dec 4, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

The Chicago Sun-Timers reports if QB Jay Cutler stays with the Bears, it likely won’t be a one-year proposition. GM Phil Emery said in an online chat Tuesday that paying Cutler under the franchise tag for one season — rather than using it as a means to negotiate a longer deal — would harm the team’s ability to sign other players. The non-exclusive franchise-tag figure for quarterbacks next season is projected to be around $16.2 million, based on the average cost of franchise quarterback figures over the last five years and the percentage of the salary cap. If the Bears franchise Cutler in February, they’d have until July 15 to work out a long-term deal. If the Bears, Cutler and agent Bus Cook can’t agree on a longer deal, the team would be stuck with a salary Emery thinks is onerous. “With the franchise tag being so high for the quarterback position, to use it and not sign the individual to a long-term deal hurts the team,” Emery wrote on Bears.com, “because you lose the ability to prorate the amount of guaranteed salary over the length of the contract.” Signing Cutler to a long-term deal would lower his cap hit from the $16.2 million franchise salary. He’s making $8.47 million in the last season of a five-year, $50.37 million deal. “Obviously, the lower the number in relation to the salary cap,” Emery wrote, “the more players you can sign to help your team reach its goals.”

-- Bills Release Tashard Choice --
Wed Dec 4, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN reports the Buffalo Bills have released veteran RB Tashard Choice.

-- Mike Tomlin Fined $100K for Sideline Incident; Steelers Could Lose Draft Picks --
Wed Dec 4, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

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Mastermind Moment

RGIII Watch - BUY LOW Candidate
Friday, October 18th, 2013
I own Washington Redskins QB Robert Griffin III in one of my high stakes fantasy football teams. The team is 3-3, which is mediocre, just as RGIII has been this

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