The Upcoming 2007-2008 NFL Season: Fantasy Football Tips

When perfectly matched, a player and a scheme make sweet music together. When not? Well, the whole thing resembles Pavarotti in a punk band. Here is my best and worst new collaborations for 2007.

Here are a few players you want on your team either as back-ups or even starters:

First, you know the Denver Broncos didn't pay Tight-End Daniel Graham megabucks just to move bodies around as a blocker. He can get downfield and has proven red-zone abilities. That's the same profile that turned Jeb Putzier into a fantasy surprise a few years ago.

Next, keep close tabs on this job competition in training camp between DeShaun Foster and DeAngelo Williams, then get the winner. With their vision and cutback ability, both guys are tailor-made for the Panthers' new zone-rushing scheme. Williams does have the edge, though, having the younger and fresher legs.

Thirdly, if the Jacksonville Jaguars are serious about opening up the passing game, Byron Leftwich might finally turn a corner. He can throw the deep ball on a rope, and his Wide Receivers are best suited to vertical routes.

Lastly, forget Randy Moss and Donte' Stallworth. The Patriots' best off-season Wide Receiver addition might just be this squirt. His quickness, route-running and toughness over the middle are perfect for the passing scheme that launched a thousand nine-yard slants.

Here are players to avoid regardless:

First, there's Kevin Curtis from the Philadelphia Eagles. He thrived playing in the slot in the Rams' vertical offense with Marc Bulger, but as a starter in Philly, he'll find himself facing tighter, more physical coverage. He lacks the muscle to pull off more possession routes.

Next, there's Matt Schaub. This pocket passer has a tremendous mind, height (6'5") and a big arm. Working behind a weak line in a scheme loaded with roll-outs out of the pocket, though, he's in for a rude awakening.

Lastly, there's Anquan Boldin from the Arizona Cardinals. Ken Wisenhunt always seems to maximize his player's talents. Last year, his Steeler's offense pounded the ball and took their shots deep, which is not good for a player like Boldin.

Now, it is time to talk about defense. Here are the defenses you should choose if they are available at the time of your pick:

The Ravens' aggressive play-makers routinely create extra possessions and favorable field position. Better still for Willis McGahee, they rarely leave the offense gunning to make up for points.

The Patriots' Adalius Thomas transforms this unit into a stout, playmaking, matchup-ready monster. One defense that should turn the field over more to the offense frequently than last year.

Lastly, surprisingly enough, there are the Vikings. This unit crushed the run and finished third in takeaways last year. If Kevin Williams and crew can boost their sacks, Adrian Peterson and Chestor Taylor both should see plenty of action.

Now, are a few of the defenses you should absolutely avoid at all costs:

The Titan's Vince Young's boosters might want to take it down a notch. His mates on D couldn't stop the run, rush the passer or get off the field in 2006. Now their best defender and only playmaker, Pacman Jones, is on an extended "vacation".

The defection of Defensive End Patrick Kerney will leave this already overtaxed unit gasping for air. Avoid the Falcons.

Imagine the possibilities on offense if Indianapolis could keep opposing backs from pillaging its front seven. With Corey Simon, Cato June, and Gilbert Gardner out of the picture, imagining is the only option left.

Now, here is a list of absolute must gets for your fantasy team:

Braylon Edwards from the Cleveland Browns was a decent route-runner when he entered the league. Now, he's a spectacular one. If the Browns could get some decent Quarterback play, he could jump into the stratosphere of elite receivers.

Brandon Jacobs from the New York Giants was used mostly as a battering ram when he first entered the NFL in 2005. He focused on running people over and not on waiting for holes. Now, the Giants are handing him the starting gig for a reason: With improved patience, he's starting to see blocking patterns develop. I wish all defenders in the NFL good luck trying to bring him down.

Kevin Jones from the Detroit Lions is not only catching the ball more cleanly and running sharper routes in Detroit's revamped offense. His ball security is what improved the most down the stretch last season. He has to find a way to stay healthy.

Finally, Vernon Davis from the San Francisco 49ers. How's this for a Tight- End: fast, athletic and a savvy route-runner. Now that Davis and Alex Smith are simpatico in an offense full of option routes, there is little holding him back from Antonio Gates-like stardom.