Fantasy Football Cafe Forum

by **CBMGreatOne** » Mon Aug 31, 2009 6:09 pm

This is just a general comment, but I wonder why there isn't a lot of hype for Mike Bell going into week 1.

Drew Brees has called Bell the preseason MVP for the Saints and in their first game they are home to Detroit. I wouldn't expect to see already dinged up Pierre Thomas or Reggie Bush for much of the second half of what should be a blowout. This seems like a rare opportunity for Mike Bell to accumulate 10+ touches against a very soft defense.

Call me crazy, but I see a top 20 week 1 RB performance from Bell and would not hesitate to start him over guys like LenDale White @ PIT or Larry Johnson @ BAL.

by **cloudwasher** » Mon Aug 31, 2009 6:19 pm

Mainly because he's a third-string back behind Bush and Thomas in a pass-heavy offense. And those defenses he's been blowing up are mostly second and third stringers. Im not saying detroit will have anything resembling a good defense this year, but its likely to at least be better than last year under Schwartz and Bell isnt likely to see more than 7-9 carries unless the Saints are up by 35 at halftime.

by **CBMGreatOne** » Mon Aug 31, 2009 6:33 pm

Considering the fact that Pierre and Reggie are both hurt right now, I'd say there's close to an even money shot that he is not the #3 back at all. I could easily see him being the #2 back, and also easily see the halftime score you're talking about.

by **sirchadwick1** » Tue Sep 01, 2009 1:33 pm

I try not to get too excited about potentials like Bell, unless I'm in a deep league or desperate for help. It's times like these when I can overthink things and I end up dropping a player that is more valuable off the 'hope' that Bell produces like a RB2-3. Take a good look at your roster and really think it over to see if it's worth taking a flyer on him. I don't trust Bell one bit, regardless of what Brees says. If you're looking for a one week wonder, he may be your guy.... but don't pick him up thinking that he'll put up PT-esque numbers.

My week 1 rule - always start my studs and/or established backs.