Fantasy Focus: The Dog Days Of Summer #20

December 23, 2012; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) throws a pass against the Cincinnati Bengals during the fourth quarter at Heinz Field. The Cincinnati Bengals won 13-10. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

#20-2012 Ben Roethlisberger-QB Pittsburgh Steelers With Ben’s arrival came a new era in Pittsburgh Steelers football from a running offense to a passing attack. Ben has been pretty consistent throwing for around 3,500 yards a season and around 25 touchdown passes.  Ben is a true 2nd echelon quarterback in fantasy football so don’t expect huge numbers, but never really bad numbers each week.  You can usually pick Ben up in 3rd to the 5th rounds depending on the leagues scoring format.

Retro-#20 2002 Tiki Barber-RB New York Giants- Barber is one of the rare running backs that got better with age.  Barber’s only problem was he had a touch of Matt Forte in him that he could finish close to the goal line.  Picking up Barber after 2002 was a great choice for a solid #2 fantasy running back, and for years he didn’t disappoint.

Looking Ahead

ESPN-Drew Brees- QB New Orleans Saints It’s hard to believe that Brees is ranked this low by ESPN especially since he finished first in points scored without his offensive genius coach Sean Payton.  Brees, Aaron Rodgers, or Tom Brady will be the top quarterback chosen so if you want to draft Brees don’t pass him up in the first round.

CBS– A.J.Green-WR Cincinnati Bengals- Green like Julio Jone is entering his third season and after two good seasons should be ready to explode in fantasy football.  Green will be gone in the 2nd round or third at the very latest.  Let’s just hope that he starts slow in Week #1.

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