Ed Barkowitz: How did preseason fantasy predictions pan out?

December 10, 2010|by Ed Barkowitz

STICKING OUT from under a pile of papers that included Boston Bruins stats from last spring and a Sports Illustrated touting Stephen Strasburg as a "National Treasure" were some preseason fantasy publications.

It's always fun thumbing through such periodicals to see what turned out right and what didn't. Who cares how fair it is to use the pristine vision of hindsight. Here are a couple of preseason observations from two prominent sources.

We'll start with USA Today's fantasy magazine:

* What they wrote: "The arrow is pointing up for the [Cardinals] run game in general and Beanie Wells in particular."

Story continues below.

What has happened: Only the Colts have a more inept run game and Gilligan's Island's Dawn Wells would have been a better pick at running back than Beanie Wells.

* What they wrote: In light of the Donovan McNabb trade, "[Michael] Vick could see a few more Wildcat snaps. And there is also the chance at a big step up if [Kevin] Kolb flops."

What has happened: Kolb's flop was caused by injury and Vick has been sensational.

Now, the Philadelphia Daily News preview:

* What was written: Colts running back "[Joseph] Addai, who has a nose for the end zone, could be a gem as a No. 2 back."

What has happened: Yuck. Addai has been a No. 2 all right, but not the way we thought. He hasn't played since Week 6 (neck) and was only mediocre before he got hurt.

* What was written: "Hate to dismiss the local guy, but forget [Texans' running back] Steve Slaton for now. Arian Foster is the guy you want."

What has happened: Foster leads the NFL in rushing yards and rushing touchdowns.

* What was written: "The biggest question [for Kevin Kolb] will be his ability to withstand the 16-game schedule. You might want to grab Michael Vick in the last round, just in case."

What has happened: Vick is one of the top five at his position.

* What was written: Adrian Peterson and Drew Brees were rated ahead of Chris Johnson. "Johnson is a horse, but those 358 carries and 50 receptions last year is a concern."

What has happened: Johnson is sixth in the league in rushing, but his last two games (5 yards and 53 yards rushing) have been disasters.

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