Faceoff - WR Larry Fitzgerald, Arizona Cardinals

Posted 7/7, exclusive to Footballguys.com

Upside - by Marc Faletti

The #1 wide receiver. I probably don't have to tell you this, but that's Larry Fitzgerald's upside. Would you be shocked by a 110-catch season? 16 TDs? 1600 yards? Neither would I.

It starts with his natural ability, which rivals that of his fellow studs Randy Moss and Braylon Edwards. Fitzgerald isn't a burner, but he's fast for his size, makes incredible adjustments to the ball in flight, makes the tough catch anywhere on the field, and knows how to fight for the ball in the red zone. He's the complete package.

Fortunately for Fitz, he's also helped by having two quality QBs, including a backup who threw for 27 TDs last year. Some detractors might point out that Boldin got a few more looks per game from Warner than from Leinart, and that's fair. But remember: Leinart clearly did not have a grasp of the new offense last year. You can bet that if he figures it out, Fitzgerald will once again lead the team in targets. If he doesn't, Warner will be back in the saddle again. It's win-win.

Speaking of targets, those same detractors may think Anquan Boldin's presence is a negative. But savvy owners realize that Boldin makes it impossible for teams to double Fitzgerald too often, giving him regular mismatches on the field. And besides, when Boldin was out last year, Fitzgerald was targeted 11.67 times per game, and when Boldin was on the field, Fitzgerald still received 10.92 targets per game. Ergo, don't sweat Boldin.

Fitzgerald could and should be the top wideout on your board -- barring a fluke injury, he's a lock for another epic top 5 season, and his consistent weekly production is nearly impossible to find at WR.

Downside - by Chris Smith

I have been chosen to do the low side on WR Larry Fitzgerald. It will present an interesting challenge as I have him ranked 3rd at the position this season, as high as anybody on our staff. However I will put on my Devil's Advocate hat and breakdown reasons to expect a disappointing season for Fitzgerald in 2008.

Reasons to believe Fitzgerald is over-valued in 2008 fantasy leagues

• The question marks surrounding 3rd-year QB Matt Leinart. Leinart is a very talented young quarterback and the Cardinals plan on starting him once again this season. However last season, he really struggled on the field, completing just 53.6% of his passes with only 2 touchdowns thrown in 112 attempts. Rumors abound in regards to his off-season habits and he hasn't shown the professionalism needed to make the next step in his development. Fitzgerald only caught 1 touchdown pass in the first five games of the 2007 season with Leinart under center.
• Cardinals would like to run the football more. HC Ken Whisenhunt would love to feature a strong rushing attack and a good defense more often in games this season. His hand was forced somewhat last season with many injuries to the defense and questionable run blocking but 590 passing attempts will likely not be in the cards in 2008, taking away targets from Fitzgerald.
• A healthy Anquan Boldin could mean some quiet weeks for Fitzgerald. The Cardinals are blessed with two super receivers but in fantasy football that does mean that either Fitzgerald or Boldin could be quiet in any given week with the other putting up monster numbers.

Final Thoughts

Personally I believe that Larry Fitzgerald is going to have a big season in 2008. However, if Leinart struggles like he did in 2007 and Warner doesn't get an opportunity to step in, Fitzgerald will struggle to approach his receiving numbers from 2007. Another possible hurdle Fitzgerald may have is the offensive philosophy of coach Whisenhunt who would love to feature a power rushing attack, conservation gameplan and good team defense. He wasn't able to do so last year but a healthy defense and improved OL performance could turn the trick.