Fantasy Focus: The Dog Days of Summer #71

Dec 30, 2012; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots defensive end Chandler Jones (95) congratulates defensive end Justin Francis (94) after sacking Miami Dolphins quarterback Ryan Tannehill (17) (not pictured) during the second half at Gillette Stadium. The New England Patriots defeated the Miami Dolphins 28-0. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports

#71- 2012 New England Patriots Defense- It kind of surprises me that the Patriots defense was ranked this high especially when you think about them its all Tom Brady and a whole lot of points. They collected 36 sacks 21 interceptions, 20 forced fumbles, and 5 touchdowns.  The Patriots defense should be ok this coming season so I surely wouldn’t reach for them, but it won’t be terrible to pick them late either.

Retro-#71 2002 Antwain Smith- RB New England Patriots Smith was one of the many replaceable running backs in the early days of the Patriot dynasty.  Smith rushed for 982 yards and 6 touchdowns.  Smith best season was 2001 and it slowly went downhill until his final season in 2005.  Smith was never a must have player to have on your roster, but he was a good #2 option early on in his Patriots career.

Look  Ahead #71

ESPN-Le’veon Bell RB Pittsburgh Steelers- Bell has the ability to be the opening day starter in his first game, watch the reports about Bell’s blocking ability which will basically determine if he plays or watches from the sidelines.

CBS– James Jones -WR-Green Bay Packers- Jones finally caught the ball consistently which led to the departure of Greg Jennings.  Jones will get the playing time the question will be will he continue to catch everything or be a hands of stone receiver of the past few seasons.

What do you think? Will Bell start the season?