Week 11 Rankings!

This is week 11 fantasy football rankings as decided by Stan Schlueter.

Running Backs

1. Brian Westbrook
2. Matt Forte
3. Frank Gore
4. Michael Turner
5. Adrian Peterson
6. DeAngelo Williams
7. Chris Johnson
8. Ronnie Brown
9. Marion Barber
10. Steve Slaton
11. Marshawn Lynch
12. Joseph Addai
13. LaDainian Tomlinson
14. Brandon Jackson
15. Tim Hightower
16. Deuce McAllister
17. Jamal Lewis
18. Ryan Grant
19. LenDale White
20. Willie Parker
21. Antonio Pittman
22. Maurice Jones-Drew
23. Willis McGahee
24. Earnest Graham
25. Larry Johnson
26. Justin Fargas
27. Jonathan Stewart
28. Julius Jones
29. Ladell Betts
30. Ricky Williams
31. Kevin Smith
32. Mewelde Moore
33. Peyton Hillis
34. Jerious Norwood
35. Fred Taylor


Wide Receivers

1. Anquan BOldin
2. Larry Fitzgerald
3. Reggie Wayne
4. Brandon Marshall
5. Steve Smith
6. Marques Colston
7. Greg Jennings
8. Roddy White
9. Andre Johnson
10. Santana Moss
11. Calvin Johnson
12. Terrell Owens
13. Dwayne Bowe
14. Lee Evans
15. DeSean Jackson
16. Eddie Royal
17. Hines Ward
18. Plaxico Burress
19. T.J. Houshmandzadeh
20. Steve Breaston
21. Braylon Edwards
22. Donald Driver
23. Lance Moore
24. Kevin Curtis
25. Bernard Berrian
26. Donnie Avery
27. Muhsin Muhammad
28. Kevin Walter
29. Santonio Holmes
30. Antonio Bryant
31. Vincent Jackson
32. Matt Jones
33. Bobby Engram
34. Roy Williams
35. Greg Camarillo
36. Chad Johnson
37. Mark Bradley
38. Anthony Gonzalez
39. Torry Holt
40. Marvin Harrison
41. Chris Chambers
42. Ted Ginn Jr.
43. Matt Jones
44. Jason Hill
45. Derrick Mason


Quarterbacks

1. Kurt Warner
2. Drew Brees
3. Jay Cutler
4. Donovan McNabb
5. Peyton Manning
6. Aaron Rodgers
7. Matt Ryan
8. Tony Romo
9. Philip Rivers
10. Jake Delhomme
11. Tyler Thigpen
12. Ben Roethlisberger
13. Chad Pennington
14. Eli Manning
15. Matt Hasselbeck
16. Jason Campbell
17. David Garrard
18. Shaun Hill
19. Trent Edwards
20. Brady Quinn


Tight Ends

1. Tony Gonzalez
2. Antonio Gates
3. Jason Witten
4. Kellen Winslow
5. Dallas Clark
6. Tony Scheffler
7. Owen Daniels
8. Chris Cooley
9. Greg Olsen
10. Bo Scaife
11. Kevin Boss
12. John Carlson
13. Zach Miller
14. Billy Miller
15. Anthony Fasano


D/ST

1. Miami Dolphins
2. Carolina Panthers
3. Philadelphia Eagles
4. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
5. New York Giants
6. Tennessee Titans
7. Baltimore Ravens
8. Pittsburgh Steelers
9. Arizona Cardinals
10. Jacksonville Jaguars
11. Indianapolis Colts
12. San Francisco
13. Green Bay Packers
14. Washington Redskins
15. Chicago Bears

Week 10 Fantasy Football Matchup Analysis!

Jets at Patriots

One of the best rivalries in football heads off on Thursday night and one of the two 6-3 teams will leave 6-4.

The Jets are coming off an absolute trouncing of the Rams where Favre threw for just 167 yards and mixed it up by not throwing any pics. Thomas Jones went off for 149 yards and three scores. New England is allowing 100 yards per game on the ground but have yielded just 4 TDs. Thomas Jones is obviously a big part of the Jets' offense but don't expect a huge game from Jones. The Pats are allowing 201 yards per game in the air and have yielded 4 TDs. Look for the Jets passing game to produce against a bad Pats passing defense.

The Jets stout run defense makes all the Pats running backs poor starts. The Jets are allowing just 76 yards on the ground and have given up a stingy 7 rushing TDs. In the air they give up 223 yards per game and have yielded 11 passing TDs. I expect most of this game to stay in the air making Welker, Moss and even Cassel good plays.


Denver at Atlanta

Welcome back Jay Cutler! Cutler went off last week with 447 yards, three scores and should continue the dominance against a Falcon's pass defense that has given up 228 yards per game and 12 passing touchdowns. Marshall, Cutler and Scheffler are must starts and Royal is a nice start if you are a little thin at receiver. On the ground Torain is out for the year along with Michael Pittman. Selvin Young still can't practice and that makes fullback Petyon Hillis the likely winner for the starting job. You are obviously not starting any Denver back.

If ever a week to start Matt Ryan and Roddy white existed this is it. Denver has allowed 243 yards per game and yielded 14 touchdowns in the air. They have only managed to grab three interceptions to go with their poor defense. Don't be afraid to start Michael Jenkins this week. It doesn't get much better for the Bronco's on the ground. Turner is a must start against a Denver team that has allowed 146 yards per game on the ground and 11 rushing TDs.


New Orleans at Kansas City

Drew Brees is going to have a monster game. Kansas City is allowing 234 yards per game in the air and have yielded 11 TDs. Brees and the Saints are coming off of another tough loss and will try to wrap up a win against the terrible Chiefs! Colston re-entered fantasy relevance last week and is a must start this week. Until Jeremy Shockey does something worth while Billy Miller is the tight end you want in New Orleans. Bush is looking probable this week but will likely be limited. Which is too bad for Deuce McAllister and Bush because KC is the leagues worst rush defense allowing 172 yards per game and have yielded 14 TDs.

On the KC side of the ball larry johnson is back and active this week but nobody's sure what his role will be. Keep him out of your lineup until we have an idea. New Orleans is allowing a generous 107 yards per game on the ground but have only allowed 5 rushing touchdowns thus far. None of the KC backs are great starts this week. On the passing side of the ball Thigpen has shown that he has some value so if you're in a pinch at QB feel confident starting him against a Saints pass defense that is allowing 238 yards per game and have given up 14 passing touchdowns. Dwayne Bowe is also a good start with Tony Gonzalez topping off the Chiefs passing game as a must start.


Philadelphia at Cincinnati

Westbrook, my #1 ranked running back this week should explode this week. Cincinnati is allowing 138 yards per game on the ground and have yielded 12 TDs. Westbrook is banged up but said he is feeling better than he did last week despite not being 100%. Cincinnati's pass defense is coming in at #10 in the NFL giving up just 194 yards per game but have allowed 13 TDs. Despite their decent pass defense look for Jackson to continue his production and Kevin Walter could be a good start as well while he's finding his way back into the Eagle's offense.

There aren't any great Bengal starts against a Philadelphia team that allows just 190 yards per game in the air and 123 yards on the ground. Fitzpatrick is still the man in Cincinnati which makes Housh a #2 and Johnson a #3 starter.


Chicago at Green Bay

Green Bayweak run defense means a good matchup for Forte. Green Bay is allowing 154 rushing yards per game and have yielded 9 TDs. Forte should dominate this week and must be in your lineup. Green Bay's pass defense is allowing just 179 yards per game in the air and have yielded 11 TDs. This makes Orton, the expected starter, and all the Bears receivers sits this week.

All your Packers involved in the passing game should find their way into your lineup. The Bears are allowing a putrid 252 yards per game in the air and have yielded 11 TDs. Rodgers is a top 5 QB this week. Ryan Grant should probably find his way onto your bench this week against a Bears run defense that is allowing just 75 yards per game and yielded just 9 TDs thus far.


Houston at Indianapolis

Indy came out of last week with a W and should continue to produce this week against a bad Houston defense. Houston is giving up 130 yards per game on the ground and have given up 14 rushing TDs. In the air they give up 199 yards per game and 15 passing touchdowns to date. Manning and Wayne need to be in your lineup. I'm putting Addai on notice. If he doesn't have a big game this week he is officially off the must start group of players!

Houston has a tough matchup especially in the air. Indy is allowing just 191 yards per game in the air and have yielded a league leading 2 passing touchdowns. Sage is in at QB and the only part of the passing game that you will want to start is Andre Johnson. The best Houston fantasy play for Houston is Slaton who is going against the Colts that allow 134 yards on the ground and have yielded 12 rushing TDs. Slaton is a must start this week.


Oakland at Miami

Ricky Williams looked like Williams circa 2002. but don't get your hopes up, he's still not worth starting except in deep leagues where you have injury problems. Ronnie Brown is still the running back you want in Miami. Speaking of Ronnie Brown, he is a nice start this week against a terrible Oakland rush defense that is allowing 158 yards per game on the ground and have yielded 13 TDs. Pennington is a reasonable low end #1 or #2 QB this week against an Oakland pass defense that has given up 12 TDs in the air despite only allowing 197 yards per game.

On the Oakland side you're still avoiding them like the plague. McFadden's turf toe is still hurting him and Fargas just isn't running well, especially when he's the only player on Oakland worth mentioning. Miami has a good run defense at 93 yards per game and just 5 rushing touchdowns to date. Sit everybody on the Raiders!


Baltimore at New York Giants

I'm going to go out on a limb here and say somebody is going to get injured during this game. Baltimore is a tough defense that only gives up 65 yards on the ground and 193 in the air. They have only given up 1 rushing TD which makes Brandon Jacobs a sit if you have anything else worth starting. Eli Manning and Plaxico Burress are not great starts either against a Baltimroe team that has 14 interceptions and 19 sacks. I like Kevin Boss in this game as I expect Manning to look to him as an out option.

The Ravens just can't decide which running back they want to be the man. It's Ray Rice one week then McGahee re-emerges as the main guy. If I'm choosing one going forward it's still McGahee. McGahee doesn't have a great match-up against the Giants who allow just 88 yards per game and have only given up 4 rushing TDs. Flacco has been playing well and winning games but still isn't a phenomenal fantasy option, especially against the Giants who only allow 177 yards per game but have given up 11 TDs in the air.


Minnesota at Tampa Bay

Adrian Peterson showed again last week why he's the best young running back in the league. He doesn't have a great match-up this week against a Bucks team that allows just 95 yards on the ground and has only allowed 1 measly rushing TD. If anybody is going to beat them it would be AP. While you are not sitting AP against any team, I would temper your expectations. Tampa Bay is allowing just 190 yards in the air but have allowed 12 TDs. I wouldn't want to start any of the Vikings pass offense but if a deep league look to Sidney Rice as a sleeper.

Warrick Dunn is back this week which is good for the Bucks. That being said I wouldn't expect much from either Dunn or Graham. Minnesota is allowing a stingy 70 yards per game on the ground and just 8 TDs. Graham is still the man you want to start in Tampa Bay but neither will have great games. Jeff Garcia and Antonio Bryant are good starts this week against a suspect Minnesota pass defense. Minnesota is allowing 219 yards per game and have given up 8 passing touchdowns. Alex Smith is a decent TE option this week as well.


Detroit at Carolina

Detroit, the dog butted lions. I won't even capitalize their name! Not much to say about the lions. Regardless of who they're playing Calvin Johnson is the only person that you are starting happily. Kevin Smith has turned in a couple nice games and could be a #3 or flex start this week but that's about it.

For Carolina you're starting everybody. Jonathan Stewart is a #3 or flex play with DeAngelo Williams as a #1. Steve Smith and Delhomme should rebound after a terrible game last week when Delhomme threw for 76 yards, 4 interceptions and a score. Muhammad is a reasonable play but Carolina will likely keep it on the ground for the most part.


St. Louis at San Francisco

Steven Jackson is still on the mend and is questionable for Sunday. Antonio Pittman will go if Jackson can't. It's too bad for Jackson that he can't go because San Francisco has given up 10 TDs and allowed 105 yards per game. Bulger is the starter this week and could have a good game against the 49'ers defense that gives up 230 yards per game and have yielded up a plethora of passing TDs at 14. Donnie Avery has some big play potential today and Torry Holt is a deeper start.

Surprisingly enough the 49'ers are pretty good starts this week. The Rams are allowing 238 yards per game in the air and 161 yards on the ground while allowing 13 and 15 TDs accordingly. Shaun Hill should not be started and neither should most of the 49'ers receivers as they are too inconsistent to be in your lineup. Vernon Davis is the only part of the passing game that I would feel comfortable starting. Frank Gore is a must start and should make the lineup in every league you own him.


Arizona at Seattle

Arizona pulled out a close one in large part because of the 49'ers poor clock management. They will look to bounce back against a horrible Seattle team, especially pass defense. Kurt Warner is my start of the week against a Seattle team that gives up 252 yards per game and have yielded 14 passing touchdowns. Since Warner took over for Lienart last year he has thrown no less than 2 touchdowns in every game he's started. That is more consistent then death or taxes. All three Cardinal receivers should be in your lineup and all three should have nice games. Tim Hightower is still the back you want against a Seattle team that gives up 120 yards per game and have yielded 8 TDs on the ground.

On the Seattle side of the ball Hasselbeck is scheduled to be the starter this Sunday. He will play for just the 5th game this year and left one of those games in the early parts of the game. The Cardinal's pass defense is suspect at 216 yards epr game and have given up a league leading 18 passing touchdowns. Koren Robinson is the #2 at Seattle and could be a sleeper for this week. Don't expect much from Hasselbeck on his first game back but Bobby Engram could have nice game especially with Arizona's rush defense being stout. Arizona is allowing just 95 yards per game on the ground and have only given up 5 TDs.


Tennessee at Jacksonville

The 9-0 Titans go into Jacksonville and look to continue their winning ways. Chris Johnson and LenDale White got shut down last week and will look to bounce back against a Jaguar's team that is allowing 113 yards on the ground and have yielded 7 rushing TDs. Johnson is a #1 this week with White as a #2. Kerry Collins will not put up phenomenal numbers but should have a decent game against a Jaguar's team that allows 213 yards per game and have given up 8 passing touchdowns.

The match-up is not in Jacksonville's favor on either side of the ball but if it leaned one way it would in the air. Tennessee is allowing 194 yards pr game and 5 TDs while only giving up 90 on the ground and 8 rushing TDs. Garrard will try to continue his strong play and should have a decent game. Matt Jones is still in the lineup he should be a good #3 or flex play.


San Diego at Pittsburgh

Roethlisberger is practicing and while not at 100% should be a great start against the worst pass defense in the league. San Diego is allowing 265 yards per game and have given up 17 TDs in the air. Hines Ward, Santonio Holmes and Matt Spaeth (who is filling in for the inactive Heath Miller) are good starts this week. It looks like Fast Willie will be in the game Sunday but I wouldn't expect a great game. San Diego is allowing 103 yards and have yielded just 6 rushing touchdowns.

LT and gang will have a rough go at Pittsburgh who are allowing just 177 yards in the air and 69 on the ground. Pittsburgh has allowed just 12 TDs total on both sides of the ball this year. Rivers is coming off of a nice game last week when the Charger's barely pulled off a win against the dog butted Chiefs and will try to continue it but don't expect a high scoring game.


Dallas at Washington

Dallas is struggling and will look to get some help again from Tony Romo and maybe Terrance Newman. Both teams are coming off of a bye week and hope to stay healthy. Washington is allowing just 191 yards in the air and have given up 9 TDs. Romo and Owens are must starts and Roy Williams will get his first start as a Cowboy. Look for Witten to have a big game. Felix Jones is looking doubtful and that means Marion Barber will have to shoulder the load against a Washington team that is allowing just 81 yards on the ground and have only allowed 6 TDs.

Santana Moss always blows up against the Cowboys and shouldn't have any trouble continuing that feat against a Dallast defense that is allowing 194 yards per game and have given up 12 passing TDs. If Portis can go he should have a nice game as Dallas is allowing 107 yards per game and have given up 8 rushing TDs to date.


Cleveland at Buffalo

The Quinn Experiment went well for the first week against a horrible Denver defense. He will have a little tougher match-up against a Buffalo team that gives up 205 yards per game but has only allowed 7 passing TDs. The Browns are likely to build the offensive game plan to include quick dump off passes and over the middle type routes. Kellen Winslow was Quinn's go to man the first game and could have another nice game if he keeps the chemistry going. On the ground Jamal Lewis is a #2 or 3 starter against a Buffalo team that gives up 104 yards per game and have yielded 11 TDs.

On the Buffalo side of the ball Marshawn Lynch is a good start against a Cleveland team that gives up 145 yards per game and have yielded 10 TDs. Trent Edwards and Lee Evans are your two starters from the Bills passing game with James Hardy as a deeper start. The Browns are allowing 227 yards in the air and have given up 12 passing touchdowns.

Week 10 Rankings!

**Disclaimer** I didn't rank the Thursday game since I already watched the games. So this does not include any Denver or Cleveland players.


Running Backs:

1. LaDainian Tomlinson
2. Adrian Peterson
3. Frank Gore
4. Michael Turner
5. Brian Westbrook
6. Ronnie Brown
7. Maurice Jones-Drew
8. Thomas Jones
9. Chris Johnson
10. Brandon Jacobs
11. DeAngelo Williams
12. Marshawn Lynch
13. Mewelde Moore
14. Tim Hightower
15. Matt Forte
16. Ryan Grant
17. Deuce McAllister
18. Jamaal Charles
19. Joseph Addai
20. LenDale White
21. Willis McGahee
22. Steve Slaton
23. Kevin Faulk
24. Ray Rice
25. Jonathan Stewart
26. Fred Taylor
27. Justin Fargas
28. Julius Jones
29. Kevin Smith
30. Le'Ron McClain


Wide Receivers:

1. Greg Jennings
2. Roddy White
3. Larry Fitzgerald
4. Anquan Boldin
5. Steve Smith
6. Andre Johnson
7. Lee Evans
8. Calvin Johnson
9. Laveranues Coles
10. Randy Moss
11. Dwayne Bowe
12. Reggie Wayne
13. Marques Colston
14. Plaxico Burress
15. Donald Driver
16. Bernard Berrian
17. Wes Welker
18. Jericho Cotchery
19. Donnie Avery
20. Kevin Curtis
21. DeSean Jackson
22. Derrick Mason
23. Matt Jones
24. Vincent Jackson
25. Hines Ward
26. Santonio Holmes
27. Lance Moore
28. Greg Camarillo
29. Torry Holt
30. Isaac Bruce
31. Chris Chambers
32. Kevin Walter
33. Chris Chambers
34. Muhsin Muhammad
35. Steve Breaston
36. Ted Ginn Jr.
37. Anthony Gonzalez
38. Marvin Harrison
39. Devin Hester
40. Rashied Davis


Quarterbacks

1. Kurt Warner
2. Drew Brees
3. Aaron Rodgers
4. Jake Delhomme
5. Philip Rivers
6. Brett Favre
7. David Garrard
8. Donovan McNabb
9. Matt Ryan
10. Peyton Manning
11. Sage Rosenfels
12. Chad Pennington
13. Trent Edwards
14. Marc Bulger
15. Ben Roethlisberger


Tight Ends:

1. Antonio Gates
2. Tony Gonzalez
3. Dallas Clark
4. Owen Daniels
5. Visanthe Shiancoe
6. Bo Scaife
7. Anthony Fasano
8. Jeremy Shockey
9. Zach Miller
10. Greg Olsen
11. Donald Lee
13. John Carlson
14. Mercedes Lewis
15. Kevin Boss


D/ST:

1. Tennessee Titans
2. Jacksonsville Jaguars
3. Pittsburgh Steelers
4. Carolina Panthers
5. Baltimore Ravens
6. New York Giants
7. Green Bay Packers
8. Chicago Bears
9. Miami Dolphins
10. Philadelphia Eagles
11. Arizona Cardinals
12. San Diego Chargers
13. New York Jets
14. Minnesota Vikings
15. New England Patriots

Week 10 Fantasy Football Matchup Analysis!

Denver at Cleveland:

Derek Anderson out, Brady Quinn in! Anderson was one pass away from staying around as the starter. Denver's suspect pass defense is a good time for Quinn to get his feet wet, but a new QB on a short week makes his upside low. Denver's rush defense makes Lewis a good start. The Bronco's are giving up 145 yards per game and have allowed 10 TDs. With Edwards' nominal production thus far I wouldn't expect much drop off. Edwards' production may even go up if Quinn looks to him as a safety blanket.

Denver will try to get back on track against a Cleveland pass defense that is allowing 200 yards a game and have given up 9 passing TDs. Cutler has struggled since week two but should get back on track this week. As usual you can't count on Shanahan enough to start any Denver back, especially with Torain back this week.


New Orleans at Atlanta:

Brees will be rested and the Saints are coming off their bye week mostly healthy and will look to start their second half off strong. Atlanta is allowing 205 yards in the air and have allowed 10 TDs. Brees should have a big game and I look to see Colston get back into the game after practicing for two weeks after his thumb surgery. McAllister is still slated to start this week while the NFL looks into his suspension. He should be the starter and the only person worth starting.

Atlanta is coming off of a 24-0 shutout of Oakland and will try to continue their surprising upswing. New Orleans is allowing 237 yards per game and have given up 12 TDs in the air. Matt Ryan and Roddy White are must starts and should both have a nice week. Michael Jenkins could be a deep start if you're in bye week or injury needs.


Tennessee at Chicago:

Two hard nosed, run first teams face off and it should be a defensive smack down.

Chicago's pass defense is terrible at 248 yards per game and while they have given up 9 TDs the Titans' Collins is not a huge game threat. Chris Johnson and White will shoulder the load as usual but don't expect huge games from either.

Kyle Orton is questionable but I don't expect him to play. Forte will shoulder the load and Greg Olson could be a decent start against a Tennessee defense that will likely only give up short, check-down passes.


Jacksonville at Detroit:

Jacksonville is one of the most disappointing teams thus far but will look to get back on track against a putrid Detroit team. Detroit is allowing 247 yards in the air and 162 yards on the ground with 13 and 11 TDs allowed respectively. MJD and Garrard should be nice starts with Reggie Williams and Matt Jones as #2 or 3 wide receivers.

Detroit is in trouble and Calvin Johnson is the only person you're starting from the Lions. Daunte Culpepper is taking snaps and may be the Detroit starter.


Seattle at Miami:

Seattle is bad. Against the Eagles last week they managed just one touchdown on one big play. Miami is allowing 242 yards in the air and ha ve given up 11 TDs. Hasselbeck is slated to start week 11 but will be out this week. Bobby Engram is the only person you should even consider starting this week for Seattle. Miami's run defense is stout this year only giving up 90 yards per game and 5 total TDs. This makes the normally dubious start Julius Jones a must sit this week.

Miami is still hanging tough. They beat up on Denver last week and should get a win this weak against a horrible Seattle defense that is allowing 258 yards in the air and 115 on the ground. Seattle has given up 13 TDs in the air and 6 TDs on the ground. This makes Chad Pennington a good start this week as well as Ronnie Brown. Ted Ginn Jr. is still proving his inconsistency but could be a deeper start this week.


Green Bay at Minnesota:

Green bay lost a hard fought game last week to Tennessee in overtime by a field goal and will try to come out on top of another tough match-up. Minnesota is allowing 233 yards per game in the air and have given up 8 TDs. Aaron Rodgers is a great start this week and Greg Jennings and Donald Driver are good #1 and #3 receivers respectively. Ryan Grant will have a tough day going against a Vikings team that is allowing just 70 yards per game and 7 total rush touchdowns.

Adrian Peterson should have a monster game against a Packers team that is allowing 146 yards per game and have given up 8 TDs on the ground. They are allowing just 184 yards in the air and the Vikings will likely try to stay on the ground. Frerotte is not a good start this week and neither are his receivers.


Buffalo at New England:

Buffalo ate a slice of humble pie the last few weeks and slowed down after coming out shooting at the beginning of the year. They are going against a depleted New England defense that is giving up 105 yards on the ground and 213 yards in the air with a beefy 13 TDs allowed in the air. Marshawn Lynch is not slated for a big game against a Patriot's team that have only allowed 4 rushing TDs all year. Lee Evans and Trent Edwards are obviously making your lineup and should have nice games.

Sammy Morris and LaMont Jordan both missed practice Wednesdays and should be on your bench. Kevin Faulk and BenJarvus Green-Ellis are both obviously in a time share with Faulk as the better option. Neither should be considered as anything more than a #2 or flex option. Cassel and Moss will look to hookup again against a Buffalo defense that allows 203 yards per game. Buffalo only has 13 sacks on the year and with enough time in the pocket Cassel and Moss should be able to hook-up well.


St. Louis at New York Jets:

The Brett's Jets will look to get back in an offensive groove against a shoddy Rams defense. The Rams are allowing 246 yards per game and have allowed 12 passing TDs. This makes Favre a great start along with Coles and Cotchery. Thomas Jones has had 4 straight weeks with 10 or more fantasy points and should continue his hot streak against a rams rush defense that is allowing 156 yards per game and have given up 12 rushing TDs this year. Leon Washington has been finding his way into the offense and is a decent flex or #3 running back this year, especially in leagues that get points for punt return yards and/or touchdowns.

The Rams go against a brutal Jets rush defense that is allowing just 76 yards per game and have allowed 7 TDs this year. Steven Jackson is day-to-day still and missed some practice this week. It's hard to justify sitting a stud like Jackson if he's playing but if you have any other options he should be on your bench. The Jets pass defense is a different story while allowing 236 yards per game in the air and have yielded 11 TDs. Mark Bulger has turned in a couple nice games since getting the starting job back and should have a nice game despite his poor history in outdoor games. Donnie Avery and Torrie Holt are the only two players you should want in your lineups this week from the Rams offense.


Baltimore at Houston:

Baltimore is back on track and will try to continue their roll against a mediocre Houston team. Traditionally a defensive team the Ravens are now putting up offensive stats which make them formidable. Houston is allowing 202 yards in the air and 127 yards on the ground while having yielded 12 TDs in the air and on the ground. Joe Flacco has quietly been turning in some good fantasy and real life games. McGahee is questionable again and it looks as if he's a dangerous start at this point, along with the rest of the Ravens rushers. McClain still appears to be the goal line guy but Ray Rice was highly touted coming into the year and it looks like they want to give him looks.

Houston will have a tough game against a great Baltimore defense that have only allowed 11 TDs total on the year. Schaub was just starting to click and then hurt his MCL and will be out a minimum of two weeks. You obviously have to start Johnson as Rosenfel has proven he can get AJ the ball. Steve Slaton, while being great thus far should find your bench this week against the best rush defense in the league. Baltimore is only allowing 64 yards per game and have only given up 1 TD thus far.


Carolina at Oakland:

Carolina is coming off of a bye week and will try to start their second half with a bang against a terribad Oakland team. Oakland is allowing 158 yards per game on the ground and have yielded 12 TDs. This makes DeAngelo Williams a #1 this week with Stewart as a low end #2 or flex start. Delhomme and Steve Smith should have a nice game against an Oakland pass defense that is allowing 216 yards per game and have given up 11 TDs in the air.

Nobody on Oakland is worth mentioning in fantasy football to date. McFadden is questionable again after missing practice and Fargas will be the main guy there. Neither one of them are worth starting at this point.


Indianapolis at Pittsburgh:

Indy is a struggling 4-4 team that will have a tough match-up against a brutal Pittsburgh defense. Pittsburgh is allowing just 164 yards in the air and 70 on the ground while giving up a total of 9 TDs of offense for the entire year. Reggie Wayne is still too good of a wide receiver to sit but temper expectations as he will likely struggle along with Manning and Harrison. There isn't anybody on the Colts that are no-brainer must starts this week. Addai will be playing but shouldn't be started with any high expectations.

Willie Parker came back last week and got 70 yards and a score and should have a nice game against a Colts team that is allowing 144 yards per game and have given up 10 TDs on the ground. Parker should be in your lineup. Roethlisberger is questionable and Ward and Holmes should have tempered expectations against a Colts pass defense that is allowing just 181 yards per game and have only allowed 2 TDs in the air. In other notes, Heath Miller missed Wednesday's practice and will likely miss week 10, you should find a replacement TE on the waiver wire.


Kansas City at San Diego:

Two under performing teams try to beat each other up. The Chargers are coming off of a bye week and should hit the ground running against a bad KC team. KC is allowing 225 yards per game in the air and 182 yards on the ground. They have yielded 9 TDs in the air and a league leading 14 TDs on the ground. This means the stars are aligning for LT to go off. He is as close to 100% as any RB will ever be in the national football league and should explode. Most of your Chargers should be in your lineup this week. Chambers is supposed to be in the lineup but didn't practice Wednesday so keep an eye on him. If he does play he lowers Jackson's value.

Larry Johnson is as good as gone and I would like to toot my own horn by saying that I lamented verbally to people that LJ would not be the starter by half way through the season. Jamaal Charles is the man in KC now with Smith out for the year and he could have a decent game. The Chargers are allowing 107 yards on the ground and have given up 6 TDs. Thigpen had a nice game two weeks ago and was serviceable last week. He has a favorable match-up against a Chargers defense that is giving up a league worst 265 yards per game in the air and 14 TDs. Dwayne Bowe is the only receiver you're starting and Tony Gonzalez should be considered a top 5 tight end this week.


New York Giants at Philadelphia:

An NFC East showdown should prove to be a back breaking defensive battle. Brian Westbrook was limited in practice but that is expected and he should be playing Sunday. Westbrook will have his work cut out for him against a Giants defense that is giving up 85 yards on the ground and have only yielded 3 rushing TDs the entire year. Westbrook is too good to sit on the bench despite the rough match-up. McNabb will also find it a rough outing against a Giants team that is giving up just 175 yards per game and has 30 sacks on the year. Reggie Brown practiced in full this week and should play but be aware that he is behind Jackson in the depth charts and DeSean Jackson is still the receiver you want in Philadelphia until Curtis and Brown prove otherwise.

The Giants will also have a tough go at it against a Philly team that gives up just 192 yards per game in the air and 89 yards on the ground. They are stingy on the TDs as well allowing 3 rushing TDs and 10 passing. Manning could have a long day against an Eagles team that has 27 sacks and 8 INTs. Brandon Jacobs should probably be started but will probably have a tough week. Burress traditionally plays well against NFC East opponents and needs to be in your lineup. Kevin Boss is a good candidate to replace the a fore mentioned Heath Miller as Boss has been finding his way into the empty shoes that Shockey left.


San Francisco at Arizona:

The 49'ers are coming off of a bye week with a new QB. Shaun Hill is in as the starter and he is going against a bad Arizona pass defense that gives up 216 yards per game and have allowed a league leading 16 TDs in the air. Isaac Bruce will try to get back in the end zone after having several bad games. Shaun Hill could be a deep starter this week but in a new position shouldn't be counted on as a solid starter. Frank gore should be in your lineup every week but he has a somewhat tough match-up against a Cardinals team that allows just 92 yards on the ground and have only given up 5 TDs.

Kurt Warner has become the essence of consistency. He has thrown 2 or more TDs every week this year and should have another good game against a 49'ers team that allows 218 yards in the air and have yielded 11 TDs. Tim Hightower is the man now and should be started against a below average 49'ers rush defense that is giving up 109 yards per game.

Week 9 Rankings!

Running Backs

1. Brian Westbrook
2. Adrian Peterson
3. Michael Turner.
4. Earnest Graham
5. Matt Forte
6. Clinton Portis
7. Earnest Graham
8. Ronnie Brown
9. Steven Jackson
10. Marion Barber
11. Brandon Jacobs
12. Willis McGahee
13. Marshawn Lynch
14. Chris Johnson
15. Joseph Addai
16. Maurice Jones-Drew
17. Steve Slaton
18. Thomas Jones
19. LenDale White
20. Jamal Lewis
21. Ryan Grant
22. Justin Fargas
22. Tim Hightower
23. Willie Parker
24. Kevin Faulk
25. Mewelde Moore
26. Fred Taylor
27. Edgerrin James
28. Pichael Pittman
29. BenJarvus Green-Ellis
30. Julius Jones


Wide Receivers

1. Andre Johnson
2. Larry Fitzgerald
3. Anquan Boldin
4. Roddy White
5. Brandon Marshall
6. Randy Moss
8. Plaxico Burress
9. Lee Evans
10. Reggie Wayne
11. DeSean Jackson
12. Calvin Johnson
13. Bernard Berrian
14. Laveranues Coles
15. Donnie Avery
16. Braylon Edwards
17. Dwayne Bowe
18. T.J. Houshmandzadeh
19. Wes Welker
20. Terrell Owens
21. Hines Ward
22. Eddie Royal
23. Jericho Cotchery
24. Kevin Walter
25. Kevin Curtis
26. Steve Breaston
27. Roy E Williams
28. Matt Jones
29. Torry Holt
30. Santoio Holmes
31. Donald Driver
32. Antonio Bryant
33. Ted Ginn Jr.
34. Chad Johnson
35. Derrick Mason
36. Marvin Harrison
37. Greg Camarillo
38. Brandon Lloyd
39. Steve Smith (NYG)
40. Marvin Harrison

Quarterbacks

1. Donovan McNabb
2. Kurt Warner
3. Kyle Orton
4. Matt Schaub
5. Peyton Manning
6. Jay Cutler
7. Eli Manning
8. David Garrard
9. Brett Favre
10. Chad Pennington
11. Trent Edwards
12. Marc Bulger
13. Aaron Rodgers
14. Ben Roethlisberger
15. Matt Ryan
16. Jeff Garcia
17. Guss Frerotte
18. Matt Cassel
19. Jason Campbell
20. Derek Anderson

Tight Ends

1. Tony Gonzalez
2. Dallas Clark
3. Anthony Fasano
4. Owen Daniels
5. Greg Olson
6. Chris Cooley
7. Zach Miller
8. Kellen Winslow
9. John Carlson
10. Bo Scaife
11. Heath Miller
12. Donald Lee
13. Visanthe Shiancoe
14. Benjamin Watson
15. Alex Smith

D/ST

1. Chicago Bears
2. Tennessee Titans
3. Tampa Bay BUccaneers
4. Jacksonville Jaguars
5. Philadelphia Eagles
6. New York Giants
7. Baltimore Ravens
8. Minnesota Vikings
9. Buffalo Bills
10. Pittsburgh Steelers
11. Cleveland Browns
12. Washington Redskins
13. Indianapolis Colts
14. Green Bay Packers
15. New England Patriots

Week 9 Fantasy Football Matchup Analysis!

New York Jets at Buffalo:

Two teams coming down to earth try to get back on track.

The Jets pulled out a win against the Chiefs last week on a late score to Coles. Favre is at 13 TDs to 8 INTs and Coles is quietly the #12 WR in fantasy football this year. Buffalo only allows 185 yard per game and have allowed 6 TDs in the air. I expect Favre to have a nice game this week against a Bills team that only has 4 INTs this year. If you don’t punish Favre for his borderline throws he will eventually come out on top. Thomas Jones should have a reasonable game but the majority of this game will be spent in the air.

Buffalo came down to earth the last couple weeks and lost one last week to Miami. Lynch will have a tough go at it against a Jets team that is allowing just 83 yards per game but have allowed 7 TDs. Trent Edwards will look to bounce back after a tough game. The jets are allowing 230 yards per game and have allowed 8 TDs.


Detroit at Chicago:

The Battle of the backups!

Over the last 5 games Kyle Orton has thrown for 1370 yards, 10 touchdowns and only 4 interceptions. He has been a veritable force to be reckoned with. He has the good fortune of going against Detroit who is allowing 251 yards per game in the air and have given up 11 TDs to just one interception. Orton should have a nice game. Matt Forte is obviously a no-brain starter this week going against a run defense that is as feeble as Kitna’s tolerance for concussions. Detroit is allowing167 yards per game on the ground and have allowed 9 TDs.

On the other side of the ball Detroit is going against a weak Chicago pass defense. Chicago is allowing 243 yards per game and have allowed 7 TDs to 10 INTs. Orlovsky is a deep starter if you’re in dire straights but don’t expect too much against a Chicago team that has 14 sacks this year. Calvin Johnson is your only safe play on Detroit’s side of the ball.


Jacksonville at Cincinnati:

The 0-8 Bengals are coming off of an old fashion beating where they managed just two field goals against a suspect Houston defense. Palmer is out again this week but is considering a start in the next few weeks. Nobody on the Cincinnati team are sure starts anymore. Housh and Johnson may be in your lineup in deeper leagues but most Bengals should be on your bench.

Jacksonville regressed a bit last week and lost to a struggling Cleveland. Garrard had 283 yards though and they shouldn’t have any trouble clawing their way past the Bengals. Cincinnati is only allowing 179 yards per game but have given up 10 TDs to just 4 interceptions. They also only have 5 sacks the entire year and Garrard should be able to pick them apart with plenty of time to sit in the pocket. MJD should have a nice game against a Bengals team that is allowing 152 yards per game and have allowed 10 TDs on the ground. MJD has only had 2 games this year with more than 30 yards, but both of those games were 100+ yard games.


Baltimore at Cleveland:

Baltimore did what they were supposed to last week and beat up on Oakland. They have a good matchup again this week against a weak Browns team. Word from Ravens camp is that Troy Smith may split time with Flacco. You probably wouldn’t start Flacco anyway but this does downgrade him considerably. Cleveland has a stout pass defense allowing just 183 yards per game and have only yielded 5 TDs the entire year. On the ground it’s a different story. They are allowing 146 yards per game and have given up 8 TDs. Look for McGahee to have a nice game.

Cleveland is hanging on by a thread. You would have to assume that Derek Anderson is on a short leash but thus far we have seen a hide or hair of Quinn. Anderson has thrown 6 TDs and 6 INTs this year and is only throwing for 164 yards per game. Going against a tough Ravens defense you really don’t want to start anybody on the Browns. Jamal Lewis and Braylon Edwards would be the only people worth mentioning.


Green Bay at Tennessee:

Tennessee is coming off of an emotional victory over the perennial patriarchs of the AFC South. Their stout defense locked down Manning and crew and the one-two punch of Johnson and White beat up a bad Indy defense. Look for much of the same against the Packers. The packers are allowing 142 yards per game and have given up 7 TDs on the ground. Look for the efficiency of Collins and the intense run game to shine. You will want to find a way to get LenDale White and Chris Johnson in your lineups. Collins is efficient but has not been a top notch fantasy QB and he is going against a good Packers pass defense that has 13 INTs and 12 sacks on the year.

On the Packers side of the ball you obviously have to start Jennings and that’s about it. Rodgers may be your best option at QB but he probably won’t have a big game against a Titans defense that has only given up 1 TD this year in the air. Ryan Grant has been getting a full load on the ground but won’t get much breathing room against a Titans defense that is only allowing 89 yards per game and have yielded 6 TDs.


Tampa Bay at Kansas City:

Tampa Bay wins the Kansas City lottery!

Tampa Bay is coming off of an offensive no-show where the Cowboys held them to three field goals. Kansas City is allowing 195 yards per game in the air and have given up 5 TDs. Don’t look for Garcia to have a huge game but I do look for Antonio Bryant to bounce back with a good game. On the ground is where KC gets beat. They are giving up a leage worst 207 yards per game on the ground and have given up a league worst 12 TDs. Graham is a great start this week, especially since Dunn is looking questionable for Sunday. Gruden said this week that they probably should not have let him play last week.

Kansas City is coming off of tough loss late in the game to the “old man lucky” Favre. Thigpen had a huge game but don’t expect that back to back. Tampa Bay is allowing 201 yards on the ground and have yielded 9 TDs. They are touchable through the air but Thigpen hasn’t showed enough consistency to be start worthy. It appears as if Larry Johnson will be sitting again this week and you can’t start Charles or Smith until KC decides who will get the rock.


Arizona at St. Louis:

St. Louis is coming off of an “almost there” loss to the Patriots. Donnie Avery seems to have arrived and Steven Jackson appears to be healing slower than they thought. Antonio Pittman filled in for Jackson and had a reasonable game last week. Don’t look for Pittman to have a great week if he starts against an Arizona team that is only allowing 04 yards per game and have only given up 4 TDs on the ground. In the air I look for Avery to continue his arrival. Arizona is allowing 220 yards per game and are tied with the league lead for most TDs allowed in the air at 12. Bulger could be a decent start if your guy is on bye or injured.

Arizona is going against a bad St. Louis defense on both sides of the ball. The Rams are allowing 231 yards per game in the air and have allowed 9 TDs. Kurt Warner is a must start this week as well as Fitzgerald and Boldin. Even Breaston stuck around with Boldin back last week and could be started as a #3 receiver or flex play. Arizona coach Ken Whisenhunt hinted at the idea that Tim Hightower may take over the starting job. This would be a welcomed event for Hightower owners. Hightower is your starter this week against a Rams team that is allowing 161 yards per game and have yielded 10 TDs on the ground.


Houston at Minnesota:

Houston beat up on Cincinnati last week and will have their work cut out for them this week against a rested Vikings team. Andre Johnson has the opportunity to be the first player ever to get 130+ receiving yards in 5 straight games and he should have a decent chance of getting it against a Minnesota team who is tough on the rush and weak on the pass. Schaub is a must start and Kevin Walter is a reasonable start for a #3 or flex position. Slaton is not slated to have a huge game against the Vikings tough rush defense that is allowing just 70 yards per game but have given up 7 TDs.

Minnesota will try to run a lot on a Texan team that has allowed 122 yards per game and 11 TDs on the ground. AP and Chester Taylor are both good starts with Taylor in a flex type role. If you have to start anybody on the passing side of the ball it’s Berrian but don’t expect a huge game from Frerotte or Berrian.


Miami at Denver:

Chad Pennington has been potent the last few weeks. After Wildcat Brown made other teams focus on the run he was able to take advantage of the openings. In the last three weeks Pennington has passed for 893 yards, 4 TDs and 2 INTs. Look for his numbers to be good this week against a putrid Denver pass defense that is allowing 240 yards per game and a league leading 12 TDs. Ted Ginn Jr. will look to continue his arrival at NFL relevance and could have a good game. Ronnie Brown should have a nice game as well against a Denver run defense that is allowing 154 yards per game and have yielded 9 TDs on the ground.

Jay Cutler is coming off of a bye and will look to get his team back on track. Starting the year on a high they have slowed down in recent weeks. Miami’s run defense is potent and Shanahan does not commit to any one running back. These factors make none of the Bronco’s backs startable. If you have to start one it’s Michael Pittman who appears to be the red zone guy. You’re obviously starting Cutler and Marshall against a bad Miami pass defense that is allowing 235 yards per game and have given up 9 TDs. Eddie Royal is back and should be healthy and a reasonable #3 receiver this week.


Atlanta at Oakland:

Michael Turner will look to get off his recent string of poor games. In 3 of the last 4 games he has finished with less than 60 yards and no TDs. The Oakland run defense is a good candidate to help him get off his slump. The Raider’s are allowing 136 yards per game and have given up 9 TDs. In the air Matt Ryan is set for a good game against the Oakland’s 224 yards in the air and 8 TDs. Roddy White has to be in your lineup until he proves otherwise.

On the Oakland side of the ball there is little value available. McFadden, the most hyped rookie coming into the year has been next to irrelevant with turf toe being the main culprit. He has not been struggling with turf toe on both feet and even when playing Fargas gets the majority of the carries. Neither one of these backs are great options but if you’re starting one it is Fargas.


Dallas at New York Giants:

Brad Johnson has gotten the nod again despite the groans of Jerry Jones and the majority of the Cowboy fans. Brooks Bollinger has taken some 1st team snaps this week and you should expect to see him if Johnson can’t move the ball again this week. None of the cowboys are must starts this week against a tough Giants defense that is allowing just 84 yards on the ground and 190 in the air. Barber and TO will most likely be in your lineups but shouldn’t have huge games. Jason Witten broke his ribs last week and says he will try to play but keep an eye on him as it would be a risk to play Witten a game before the Cowboys bye week.

On the other side of the ball Eli Manning and Plaxico Burress are good starts. Dallas had a phenomenal defensive game last week but on the year have allowed 201 yards per game in the air and have yielded 9 TDs. On the ground Jacobs will try to beat down the Cowboys that are allowing 102 yards per game.


Philadelphia at Seattle:

Seattle went to San Francisco and “upset” the spiraling 49’ers. Despite their win last week this is not a good matchup for them. Hasselbeck and Branch are out again and Seneca Wallace will have a tough time against a Philly team that has 21 sacks and have only allowed 7 TDs and 188 yards per game in the air. Nobody on the Seattle offense are good starts this week.

On the Eagle’s side of the ball we have a week full of great matchups. The Seahawks are allowing 242 yards in the air and 121 on the ground. Westbrook is a must start along with Donovon McNabb. Eagle’s should be up in the game allowing Westbrook to follow-up his career game last week with another gem. DeSean Jackson will look to continue to get the ball with Kevin Curtis working his way back into the offense.


New England at Indianapolis:

The battle of the has-beens!

For different reasons both the Colts and the Patriots are struggling. The Colts got handled last week on Monday Night Football against a tough Titans defense. They will look to bounce back this week against a Patriots team that is allowing 117 yards on the ground and 196 in the air. They have allowed 10 TDs in the air and only 4 on the ground. Addai is probable for a return this week but doesn’t have a great matchup. Reggie Wayne and Manning are good bounce back starters this week and Marvin Harrison could find himself as a decent flex play.

Randy Moss has found his way back into relevance but he’s going against a tough Indy defense that is allowing 175 yards per game and have only allowed 2 TDs. The Colts just found out that their starting cornerback Marlin Jackson may be out for the year which would have an impact on their pass defense. With Sammy Morris out this week Green-Ellis and Kevin Faulk will look to split the load against a suspect Colts rush defense that is allowing 153 yards per game and have yielded 6 TDs.


Pittsburgh at Washington:

Pittsburgh just came off of a hard-nosed loss to the Giants and face the leading rusher in the NFL. Portis is banged up but is slated to start this week. Santana Moss has a swollen hammy but appears to be starting also. Willie Parker has practiced in full this week and is scheduled to make his return. This should be a tough game for both sides of the ball. You’re obviously starting Portis and Moss. You’ll want Hines Ward in your lineup and that’s about it. The Steelers will not punish Holmes further for his marijuana charges last week but he is still facing suspension from the league so watch his status if you own him.

Running Backs

1. Clinton Portis (WAS)
2. Frank Gore (SF)
3. Steven Jackson (StL)
4. Thomas Jones (NYJ)
5. Michael Turner (ATL)
6. LaDainian Tomlinson (SD)
7. Brian Westbrook (PHI
8. Willis McGahee (BAL)
9. Marion Barber (DAL)
10. Marshawn Lynch (BUF)
11. Chris Johnson (TEN)
12. Steve Slaton (HOU)
13. Maurice Jones-Drew (JAC)
14. Brandon Jacobs (NYG)
15. Ronnie Brown (MIA)
16. Ellis-Green (NE)
17. Mewelde Moore (PIT)
18. LenDale White (TEN)
19. Dominic Rhodes (IND)
20. Jonathan Stewart (CAR)
21. DeAngelo Williams (CAR)
22. Deuce McAllister (NO)
23. Earnest Graham (TB)
24. Edgerrin James (ARI)
25. Julius Jones (SEA)
26. Darren McFadden (OAK)
27. Jamal Lewis (CLE)
28. Warrick Dunn (TB)
29. Tim Hightower (ARI)
30. Justin Fargas (OAK)
31. Kevin Smith (DET)
32. Correll Buckhalter (PHI)
33. Pierre Thomas (NO)
34. Le’Ron McClain
35. Chris Perry (CIN)
36. Fred Taylor (JAC)
37. Fred Jackson (BUF)
38. Cedric Benson (CIN)


Wide Receivers

1. Randy Moss (NE)
2. Lee Evans (BUF)
3. Steve Smith (CAR)
4. Larry Fitzgerald (ARI)
5. Terrell Owens (DAL)
6. Reggie Wayne (IND)
7. Santana Moss (WAS)
8. Andre Johnson (HOU)
9. Roddy White (ATL)
10. Calvin Johnson (DET)
11. Braylon Edwards (CLE)
12. Plaxico Burress (NYG)
13. Hines Ward (PIT)
14. Marques Colston (NO)
15. Isaac Bruce (SF)
16. Anquan Boldin (ARI)
17. Wes Welker (NE)
18. Antonio Bryant (TB)
19. Houshmandzedah (CIN)
20. DeSean Jackson (PHI)
21. Roy Williams (DAL)
22. Jericho Cotchery (NYJ)
23. Santonio Holmes (PIT)
24. Muhsin Muhammad (CAR)
25. Chad Johnson (CIN)
26. Dwayne Bowe (KC)
27. Vincent Jackson (SD)
28. Steve Breaston (ARI)
29. Chris Chambers (SD)
30. Donnie Avery (StL)
31. Bobbie Engram (SEA)
32. Laveranues Coles (NYJ)
33. Torry Holt (StL)
34. Kevin Curtis (PHI)
35. Derrick Mason (BAL)
36. Marvin Harrison (IND)
37. Kevin Walter (HOU)
38. Reggie Brown (PHI)


Quarterbacks

1. Drew Brees (NO)
2. Donovon McNabb (PHI)
3. Philip Rivers (SD)
4. Trent Edwards (BUF)
5. Kurt Warner (ARI)
6. Jake Delhomme (CAR)
7. Brett Favre (NYJ)
8. Matt Schaub (HOU)
9. Jason Campbell (WAS)
10. Matt Cassel (NE)
12. J.T. O’Sullivan (SF)
12. Peyton Manning (IND)
13. Ben Roethlisberger (PIT)
14. Jeff Garcia (TB)
15. Matt Ryan (ATL)
16. Eli Manning (NYG)
17. David Garrard (JAC)
18. Derek Anderson (CLE)
19. Chad Pennington (MIA)
20. Brad Johnson (DAL)



Tight Ends

1. Antonio Gates (SD)
2. Chris Cooley (WAS)
3. Jason Witten (DAL)
4. Owen Daniels (HOU)
5. Tony Gonzalez (KC)
6. Heath Miller (PIT)
7. Dallas Clark (IND)
8. John Carlson (SEA)
9. Bo Scaife (TEN)
10. Anthony Fasano (MIA)
11. L.J. Smith (PHI)
12. Vernon Davis (SF)
13. Dustin Keller (NYJ)
14. Todd Heap (BAL)
15. Zach Miller (OAK)


D/ST

1. Baltimore
2. Tennessee Titans
3. Philadelphia Eagles
4. New York Jets
5. Tampa Bay
6. Washington
7. Pittsburgh
8. New York Giants
9. San Francisco
8. New England
9. Jacksonville
10. Houston

Week 8 Fantasy Football matchup Analysis!

Tampa Bay at Dallas:

The struggling Dallas Cowboys will look to right their quickly sinking ship. Brad Johnson’s first game at the helm was not as smooth as the Cowboys had hoped it would be. Romo said in a radio interview this week that he will probably be shut down until after their bye week in November. The offensive line of the Cowboys has been atrocious of late. Giving up sacks to three man rushes last week. Look for the Cowboys to have a tough game against a physical Tampa Bay cover-2 defense. Tampa Bay have yet to give up a rushing TD so look for Barber to have a tough game. Tampa Bay has 12 interceptions for the year as well so don’t look to Brad Johnson for a great game.

The Cowboys are giving up 203 yards in the air and have yielded 9 touchdowns. They are a little better on the ground but have still allowed 6 TD’s and 100 yards per game. Expect Garcia to start and put up good numbers against a horrible Cowboys defense. I expect Antonio Bryant to tally over one hundred yards.

Washington at Detroit:

Another Redskins fantasy. After squeaking by an impotent Cleveland team and losing to the Rams the Redskins have yet another great matchup. Detroit’s rush D is allowing 167 yards per game and have given up 9 touchdowns. Portis is banged up from overuse but is still expected to play and is a must start. Campbell should have a good game against a Detroit D that is allowing 251 yards in the air and have yielded 11 TD’s and have only had one interception. Santana Moss is a must start as well as Chris Cooley. Randel El is a deep starter.

You are benching every Lion except Calvin Johnson. Orlovsky was reasonable last week against a bad Houston team but I don’t expect him to have a great game. The Skins are above average in both rush and pass defense. The Lions should struggle early and often making the Skins D a good start this week.

Buffalo at Miami:

Miami has already doubled their win total from last year. Unfortunately that does not mean they are back into a competitive team. Chad Pennington has put together some good starts and Ronnie Brown is still shaking stuff up. Buffalo is allowing 107 yards per game and have yielded 7 TD’s through 7 games on the ground. Brown is a must start at this point until he proves otherwise. Pennington is a deeper start if you’re having bye week struggles or injuries.

Buffalo is up against a surprisingly strong Miami run defense that is allowing 97.5 yards per game and only given up 4 TD’s this year on the ground. You probably don’t have a better option than Lynch but don’t expect a huge game from Lynch. Miami’s pass defense, on the other hand, is suspect at best. They are giving up 235 yards per game and have allowed 9 TD’s in the air. This makes Edwards a must start as well as Lee Evans.

St Louis at New England:

St Louis, who I have officially deemed the flavor of the month are coming off of two big wins over the Redskins and the Cowboys. After firing coach Linehan they have played with a spark that was missing previously. Donnie Avery appears to be emerging as their first target for Bulger and Holt has been getting some receptions. Steven Jackson went off last week and should have another great game against a New England team that is allowing 117 yards per game on the ground. New England lost Rodney Harrison for the year and possibly his career. This makes their, already suspect, pass defense weaker. New England has given up 10 TD’s in the air and is allowing 196 yards per game.

St Louis is over achieving and are bad on both sides of the ball. They are allowing 231 yards per game in the air and have allowed 9 TD’s. Randy Moss and Cassel should continue their dominance in the air from last week. They are both good starters this week. Wes Welker is a good start against a Rams team that can get pressure on the quarterback. The Rams are worse still on the ground, allowing 161.5 yards per game and 10 TD’s in 6 games played. The Patriots are down to their 2nd or 3rd string backs with Maroney out for the year. Sammy Morris had a monster first half last week before leaving with a knee injury. He wasn’t able to practice on Wednesday and is questionable for the game Sunday. Whichever RB plays should have a nice game. If you have Morris you will want to pick up Green-Ellis if he’s still available.

San Diego at New Orleans:

Two teams that are coming off of tough losses will look to get back on track in London. This should be a shootout match if Rivers and Brees can play like they did at the beginning of the year.

San Diego is the worst pass D in the league allowing 254 yards per game and have given up 11 TD’s in the air. Drew Brees should be able to pass at will. Brees is obviously a no brainer. Colston will look to get back in the offense after playing last week without a catch. Shockey, after calling out the team for how they handled his injury, missed Wednesday’s practice but is still expected to play Sunday. Reggie Bush is out four weeks and Deuce McAllister and Pierre Thomas will fill his spot.

On the other side of the ball Rivers should have a nice game against a Saints team that is allowing 222 yards per game and have given up 9 TD’s. He may get Chris Chambers back who practiced on Wednesday but is questionable for Sunday’s game. LT is still nursing turf toe and has failed to reach the endzone in three straight games. He is going against a Saints team that allows 109 yards per game but have only allowed 4 rushing TD’s.

Kansas City at New York Jets:

This just in, the Chiefs are bad and the Jets are underperforming after doubling their payroll from last year. Favre has struggled the last two weeks and will look to get back on track against a putrid KC defense.

KC’s pass defense is only allowing 195 yards in the air and have only allowed 5 TD’s in the air. This is mainly because everybody is running in TD’s like they’re going out of style. With only 3 interceptions and 3 sacks the KC defense does not get pressure and does not punish risky throws. Favre enjoys throwing risky passes and this may be the team for Favre to right the ship. Coles appears to be the main target of Favre but he apparently has a concussion and is questionable for Sunady. If he's out I would expect Cotchery to have a big game. Thomas Jones is a must start this week. Coming off of a 159 yard outing Jones should be able to carry that over against a league worst 207 yards per game and 12 TD’s on the ground.

KC lost their #1 and #2 QB’s for the year and it appears as if Thigpen will get the start. You are not starting anybody on the Chiefs team except Tony Gonzalez and maybe Bowe. Larry Johnson is on the bench and is still holding his breath to find out if he will be suspended by the Iron Fist Commish. Be sure to remove Johnson from your lineup if you are still using him.

Atlanta at Philadelphia:

Both Fowl coming off of byes will look to get started again in the 2nd part of the year.

The Falcons have surprised people especially with the high level of production from rookie QB Matt Ryan. The Eagles will look to punish the Falcons with a tough pass rush that have racked up the 2nd most sacks in the league with 21. Eagles are only allowing 187 yards in the air. Michael Turner is a must start until he proves otherwise but he does not have a favorable matchup this week against an Eagles rush defense that is only allowing 91 yards on the ground with only 3 TD’s allowed.

The Eagles are looking to get back on track and that should coincide with Westbrook’s health. He practiced fully Wednesday and is probably for Sunday’s game. The Eagles will also get back Curtis who is probable. Reggie Brown has gone through limited practice and is questionable. The Falcons are allowing 118 yards on the ground and have given up 6 TD’s. Westbrook should be a must start if he’s in the lineup. In the air the Falcons are allowing 235 yards per game and have given up 10 TD’s. DeSean Jackson is a must start until Brown and Curtis come back. McNabb should have a nice game.

Arizona at Carolina:

Arizona is coming off of a bye and playing a Carolina team that just put it to the Saints.

The Cardinals are hopeful that Boldin will be back Sunday but after limited practice he is questionable for Sunday. Warner and crew will look to continue their dominant air game against the 2nd best pass defense in the league. Carolina is allowing 168 yards per game and have allowed 5 TD’s. Edge has voiced frustration with his part in the Cardinal offense and the Cardinals will have better luck running against the Panthers who are allowing 107 yards per game and have given up 3 TD’s. The high flying Cardinals should have a nice game with Fitz and Warner as must starts. If Boldin’s out Steve Breaston should be in your lineup.

The Panthers will come against a rested Arizona D who are allowing 93 yards on the ground and 220 in the air. The Cardinals have yielded a league high 12 passing touchdowns so look for Steve Smith, Muhammad and Delhomme to have nice games.

Oakland at Baltmore:

Oakland is coming off of an overtime W over the Jets while the Ravens looked like retro Baltimore.

The Ravens defense is back and despite their age Oakland will find it difficult to get anything started against the Ravens. McFadden is splitting carries with Fargas and that looks to be a full time split. The Ravens are allowing just 67 yards on the ground and have only allowed 1 TD. In the air they are allowing 176 yards per game and have allowed 7 TD’s. I don’t like any Raider this week and they are all missing my starting lineups.

The Oakland defense is not as potent. They are allowing 224 yards per game in the air and 136 on the ground and have yielded 7 and 9 touchdowns on either side of the ball. McGahee appears to be back and healthy. He had 30+ touches last week and should get a full load again this week against a bad Oakland team. Derrick Mason appears to be a main target again and is worth starting as a low #3 WR.

Cincinnati at Houston:

Houston, the team that almost lost to Detroit. Cincinnati, the team that is effectively amounting to nothing.

Houston, an effective pass team that are averaging 249 yards per game is going against a Cincinnati team that is only allowing 179 yards per game, though they have given up 10 TD’s. Steve Slaton has opened up the offense for Schaub and Andre Johnson to fling the ball. You are starting Slaton, Schaub and Johnson and Daniels in a pinch.

The only thing worse than Cincinnati’s rush defense is their offense. They are averaging a total of 224 yards per game and will likely struggle without Carson Palmer throwing the ball. Chad Johnson still appears to get some goal line looks but Housh is proving to be the reception guy. In the last two games Housh has grabbed 7 balls and if he continues that trend he will have some effective fantasy games. Stay away from all Bengal running backs until they choose a premier back.

Cleveland at Jacksonville:

Cleveland is night and day, meanwhile Jacksonville looks to get on track after a bye week.

Cleveland is hot or cold. The biggest disappointment in the league, the Browns struggle to put up points. Jacksonville has allowed the 2nd most passing touchdowns at 11 and are allowing 229 yards per game. Derek Anderson needs to get it going this week or he will find himself on the bench sooner rather than later.

Jacksonville is a run first team going against a bad Cleveland rush defense. Cleveland is allowing 146 yards per game and have given up 8 TD’s on the ground. MJD and Fred Taylor should both have good games with MJD as the main guy. Garrard is a #2 starter that you can count on from week to week for 10-20 points.

Giants at Pittsburgh:

Two hard nosed defenses should effectively beat each other into submission.

Both teams are coming off of nice wins and will look to continue their success. Mewelde Moore had a great game last week and with Parker still questionable would be the main back in Pittsburgh. Two of the best defenses in the league this could be a low scoring affair. The Giants are allowing 84 yards on the ground and have only allowed 2 TD’s. On the other side of the ball they are allowing 190 yards per game and have given up 6 TD’s.

Pittsburg is the best pass defense allowing just 158 yards per game in large part due to their league leading 25 sacks. They are only allowing 69 yards on the ground and have only yielded 3 TD’s.

Temper your fantasy expectations for most players in this game. Manning and Roethlisberger are still starters as well as Plaxico and Ward.

Seattle at San Francisco:

Seattle is challenging the Chiefs as the worst team in the league. Meanwhile the 49’ers have fired their coach and are hoping to catch some of the new coach fire that they need.

Seattle’s pass defense is allowing 242 yards per game and have given up 10 TD’s. While their rush defense is allowing 121 yards per game and have given up 6 TD’s. JT O’Sullivan should have a good game against a floundering Seahawks team. I also like Frank Gore to have a monster game against a team that even the 49’ers should get ahead of quickly.

With Hasselbeck out again the Seahawks have only one person worth cracking your lineup and that’s Julius Jones. Even he should only be used in bye week or injury situations.

Indianapolis at Tennessee:

The Colts are in trouble, meanwhile the Titans are playing like Titans.

The Colts flashed a bit of hope two weeks ago then fell on their faces against Green Bay. It won’t get any easier this week against a tough Tennessee defense who have only allowed 7 touchdowns the entire year. Unfortunately for Manning and the Colts 6 of those TD’s were allowed on the ground. Addai is still questionable and has not practiced this week.

The Colts D, on the other hand, is great against the pass and bad against the run. Which is great for the Tennessee Titans who are averaging 154 yards per game on the ground and have scored a league high 11 TD’s. They are coming off of a rushing explosion of over 300 yards where Chris Johnson and Lendale White went off. Johnson and White are must starts this week and everybody else are mediocre options.

Week 7 fantasy football rankings!

Running Backs

1. Marion Barber
2. Clinton Portis
3. LT
4. AP
5. Jacobs
6. Gore
7. Lynch
8. Chris Johnson
9. Reggie Bush
10. Thomas Jones
11. Steve Slaton
12. Matt Forte
13. Steven Jackson
14. Ronnie Brown
15. Earnest Graham
16. Larry Johnson
17. Lendale White
18. Jonathan Stewart
19. Jamal Lewis
20. Michael Pittman
21. Sammy Morris
22. Warrick Dunn
23. LeRon McClain
24. Darren McFadden
25. Julius Jones
26. Dominic Rhodes
27. Willis McGahee
28. Willie Parker/Mewelde Moore (depends on who's starting)
29. Deuce McAllister
30. DeAngelo Williams
31. Justin Fargas
32. Derrick Ward
33. Ahman Green

Wide Receivers

1. Andre Johnson
2. Brandon Marshall
3. Reggie Wayne
4. Terrell Owens
5. Greg Jennings
6. Randy Moss
7. Steve Smith (Carolina)
8. Braylon Edwards
9. Plaxico Burress
10. Santana Moss
11. Hines Ward
12. Lee Evans
13. Marques Colston
14. Roy Williams
15. Vincent Jackson
16. Santonio Holmes
17. Calvin Johnson
18. TJ Housh
19. Laveranues Coles
20. JerichoCotchery
21. Bernard Berrian
22. Isaac Bruce
23. Marvin Harrison
24. Dwayne Bowe
25. Donald Driver
26. Wes Welker
27. Torry Holt
28. Steve Smith (NYG)
29. Devin Hester
30. Muhsin Muhammad
31. Chad Johnson
32. Bobby Engram
33. Kevin Walter
34. Lance Moore
35. Greg Camarillo
36. Brandon Lloyd (questionable)
37. Randel El
38. Eddie Royal (questionable)
39. Derrick Mason
40. Antonio Bryant

Quarterbacs

1. Brees
2. Cutler
3. Rivers
4. Favre
5. Eli Manning
6. Peyton Manning
7. Ben R
8. Schaub
9. Rodgers
10. Jason Campbell
11. Kyle Orton
12. Derek Anderson
13. Jake Delhomme
14. Trent Edwards
15. Brad Johnson


Tight Ends

1. Witten
2. Gates
3. Tony Gonzalez
4. Dallas Clark
5. Chris Cooley
6. Heath Miller
7. Owen Daniels
8. Kellen Winslow
9. Greg Olson
10. Zach Miller
11. John Carlson
12. Kevin Boss
13. Jeremy Shockey (questionable)
14. Tony Scheffler (questionable)
15. Anthony Fasano

D/ST

1. Pittsburgh
2. Ravens
3. Titans
4. Dallas
5. Tampa Bay
6. Jets
7. Giants
8. Minnesota
9. Chicago
10. New Orleans
11. Houston
12. Washington
13. Green Bay
14. Indianapolis
15. Chargers

Week 7 fantasy football matchup anlysis

Week 6 is done and my first week of analysis and rankings was fun. Lets get week 7 started.

Dallas at St. Louis:

Thus enter the Brad Johnson era. Relieving a star QB is nothing new for the 17 year veteran. Widely considered one of the best backup QB's in the league Johnson will look to fill some big shoes. Cowboys are coming off back to back losses and will look to get the win over a weak STL team. Recent acquisition Williams is slated to play his first week with the Cowboys and will be active for the game Sunday. Felix Jones is out 2-4 weeks and Romo is out for four weeks as we stand today. Johnson will have to rely heavily on Barber and quick passes. The absence of Romo will lower TO's value. I look for Barber to have a big game going against the 5th worst run defense in the game. STL is allowing 169 ypg on the ground and have given up 9 TD's. Roy Williams should hit the ground running and excel in a quick check down system that Brad Johnson will have to run.

STL will be feeling good after upsetting the Redskins. They're playing at home but have been terrible most of the year, including last week where they won by returning a fumble for a TD. Their offense is anemic and will struggle to get started against a tough Dallas D that is allowing 87.5 ypg on the ground. You're starting Jackson and sitting the rest of your Rams.

Baltimore at Miami:

Baltimore just got smacked down at Indianapolis. Baltimore got shut down last weekend against a mediocre Colts defense. The Ravens were the #1 defense on both sides of the ball going into last week. They are still #1 but looked inept last week. They are averaging 133 yards on the ground and will look to pound the ball against a strong Miami team that is allowing just 89 yards per game and have only given up 3 TD's. Flacco will try to play mistake free ball and try to pull a win out against a surging Miami team.

Miami lost last week in the final seconds against the 1-4 Texans. Ronnie Brown (the wildcat) has been looking like a stud and will try to continue his effectiveness. He will have his work cut out for him going against the best defense in the league, a defense that will be mad and out to prove they're still #1 this week. I don't like any players in this game. It's hard to sit Ronnie Brown, especially after watching the Colts cut up the Ravens defense but the Colts did it in the air. The Ravens only allowed 73 yards on the ground. I am not starting McGahee until he proves he's healthy, McClain could get in the endzone but I look for this to be a low scoring affair with little fantasy production.

New Orleans at Carolina:

New Orleans is coming off of another quality victory and is looking like the real deal. Brees is the best QB in the league to date and is likely getting two of his weapons back this week. Shockey and Colston are slated to play in week 7. Colston is almost a lock to play, Shockey is looking good. If Colston and Shockey play this will obviously lower the value of Lance Moore and makes Devery Henderson virtually useless in anything other than 14-16 team man's leagues. McAllister got 13 carries last week to Bush's 14 but Bush's involvement in the pass game and explosive tendencies make him a must start. McAllister could be a bye week filler or flex play against a Carolina team that is allowing 105 ypg on the ground.

On the Carolina side of the ball I look to see Delhomme have a reasonable game against a New Orleans team that is giving up 227 ypg and has allowed 7 TD's in the air. Steve Smith should have a nice game with 100 yards and a score. I would be hesitant to start DeAngelo Williams against a NO rush defense that is trending up. They shut down AP two weeks ago for 32 yards and allowed just 85 yards to the fourth most frequent running team in the NFL. Stewart is a flex start or #3 starter. He should find the endzone this week.

San Francisco at New York Giants:

San Francisco lost a tough one to a good team last week. The Eagles, without Westbrook posted 103 yards on the ground and 280 in the air. The 49'ers will look to rebound against....an angry Giants team. You are obviously starting Gore but beyond that I don't like much from the 49'ers. Isaac Bruce has produced to the point where he's a no questions starter until he proves otherwise but I would temper expectations for this week.

The Giants got punched in the mouth against one of the worst teams in the league. The Browns, admittedly, looked good. But the Giants got nothing done. I look to see Plaxico get 100 yards and a score. Jacobs is a must start against a 49'ers team that is allowing 124 ypg and has given up 7 rushing TD's. Eli Manning finally looked like the 2nd best fantasy and real life quarterback in the Manning family last week. He will look to rebound and shake off the tough loss to the dismal Browns.

San Diego at Buffalo:

San Diego had a big win last week against the rested Patriots. Rivers played like a stud again with 306 yards and 3 scores with no INT's. Buffalo is allowing just 184 yards in the air and have only given up 4 TD's this year. LT averaged just 3.7 yards per carry with his longest rush being 3.7 yards. You have to be a little concerned about LT at this point. He says his toe is feeling better but we're just not seeing the explosiveness of old. He went against a Patriots team that gives up 119 yards on the ground per game and only managed 74. You're still starting him if he's playing but with tempered expectations.

Buffalo was on bye last week and will look to come out strong. One of the surprise teams of the league the Bills want to make a statement by slapping down the Chargers. The Chargers are allowing 112 yards on the ground and have given up 3 TD's this year. Without their pressure from Merriman they are finding it difficult to get pressure on the QB and are getting passed on at an incredible rate. They are giving up 253 ypg in the air and have given up 10 TD's. Edwards says he's playing in week 7 and is a good start this week. Lynch is a must start as well as Lee Evans.

Minnesota at Chicago:

Chicago lost a heart breaker last week on Elams 48 yard field goal. Chicago is still one of the premier run defenses in the league but is in the bottom part of pass defenses allowing 236 ypg and have given up 5 TD's. Minnesota is in a similar scenario. These are two run first teams that will look to beat each other up. Orton is still looking to be a good QB both in real life and in fantasy. Look for him to be a low end #1 especially against the tough Vikings run defense.

AP has struggled in two consecutive games and will likely struggle for a 3rd game against the stout Chicago run defense. You are unlikely to have a better option and you can't sit AP because he could turn any game into a run fest. Don't let Frerotte's 17 point week fool you. He had one big 80+ yard TD pass that inflated his stats against a shoddy Detroit defense. He is not a starter. Orton is another low #1 or #2 starter until he proves otherwise.

Pittsburgh at Cincinnati:

Pittsburgh is coming off of a bye week and will likely be receiving the much needed return of Willie Parker who claims to 100%. Big Ben should be more refreshed after being banged up by a shoddy offensive line. The Bengals are bad to say the least. They are the worst run defense in the league allowing 156 ypg and have given up 8 TD's. Surprisingly they are the 4th best pass defense only giving up 167 yards in the air. They have allowed 7 passing TD's. I look to see most of the Pittsburgh players perform well Sunday. Parker should hit the ground nicely with 75 yards and a score.

Palmer is officially out again for week 7 therefore reducing the value of Housh and Johnson. Housh had 7 receptions last week for just 49 yards but if he maintains 7-10 receptions per game he will be worth starting. None of the Bengals running backs should be in your lineup this week. You don't know who will get the carries and even if you knew neither one of them will be worth starting against the Steeler's 2nd ranked rush defense.

Tennessee at Kansas City:

Tennessee is another fresh team coming off of a bye. They are playing the dog-butted Chiefs. Tennessee is the #1 fantasy D/ST and nothing should change this week. Brodie Croyle is set to start again on Sunday effectively lowering the value of Dwayne Bowe. Croyle has looked to Gonzalez more than Bowe so TG's value remains the same or a tad higher than with Huard. Larry Johnson will have a rough game amidst a tough run defense and recent news that he may face the iron fist of Roger Goodell.

I love Chris Johnson and Lendale White against one of the worst rush defenses in the NFL. They are allowing 182 ypg and have given up 8 TD's. I like Chris Johnson as a low end #1 or 2 fantasy back and should have close to one hundred yards and a score. White is a #2 or flex player. Collins is a deep starter in a 12 team league if you're having bye or injury problems.


Detroit at Houston:

0-5 vs 1-4. Two struggling teams face off and try to get something started. Things couldn't be worse for Detroit. Sitting at 0-5 they just placed the much maligned Kitna on IR and he claims they did that to find an excuse to get rid of him. Roy Williams was traded to the Cowboys this week leaving the young Calvin Johnson as the lone receiver. Orvlosky will take over at QB and the Lions will continue to struggle.

Despite Houston being 1-4 I expect good games from the Houston players. Detroit is a bad defense on both sides of the ball. They are giving up 250 yards in the air and have yielded 9 TD's and 171 on the ground along with 7 TD's. Schaub is slated to play and should have a nice game along with Andre Johnson. Slaton should have a great game as well. Ahman Green could be used in deep leagues that have flex players but should not be relied on.

New York Jets at Oakland:

The Jets will look to continue their playoff bid against the struggling Raiders. Oakland is allowing 234 ypg in the air and have given up 8 TD's. Look for Favre, Coles and Cotchery to all post big numbers. Oakland is also allowing 115 yards on the ground and have given up 8 TD's. Thomas Jones will look to raise his TD count against a bad Oakland team. Favre and the Jets could get up big and then move it to the ground.

Neither Justin Fargas and Darren McFadden are safe starts this week. The Jets are the 3rd best rush defense only allowing 69 ypg although they have given up 7 rushing TD's. I would consider Fargas and McFadden #3 starters this week worthy of only a flex spot in 10 or 12 team leagues. Russell and the rest of the Raiders have little value as well. Zach Miller could be started in a bye week fill-in scenario.

Indianapolis at Green Bay:

Green Bay just came off of an expected win against a bad Seattle team. Indianapolis just came off of an impressive performance in which they posted 341 total yards and shut down the Ravens defensively. Ryan Grant got 33 touches and is apparently healthy enough for a full load. Indianapolis shut down a dinged up McGahee and McClain but they are still in the bottom rush defenses in the league allowing 161 ypg and have given up 5 TD's. Ryan Grant has been an effective real life back but has been, in large part, a fantasy disappointment. I look for him to find the endzone this week against a weak Colts rush defense. Greg Jennings, Driver and Rodgers are all starters this week.

Indianapolis will try to carry over some of their dominant performance into this week. Green Bay is a bad rush defense allowing 153 rushing yards and have allowed 5 TD's. Addai is out 2-4 weeks and Rhodes should do okay and is a reasonable #2 or flex start. Manning is obviously a start as well as Wayne. Harrison had a monster game last week but only had 3 receptions, one of which was a 67 yard TD. One encouraging note from his game was that one of his other catches was a 5 yard TD. Harrison has the ability to be a #1 or #2 WR in fantasy formats if Manning continues to play well.

Clevaland at Washington:

Two teams coming off of a week of polar opposites. The Redskins gave up a game to the Rams while the Browns took one away from the Giants. Derek Anderson looked like the Anderson we loved to cheer for last year. Crisp passes and good decision making. Braylon Edwards, the bane of many people's lineups to date came out with a bang. 154 yards, a score and a 2 point conversion reception. You have to start Edwards if you have him but time will tell if Anderson's performance was a fluke or if he is back to form. Jamal Lewis had a good game but much of that should be credited to Anderson opening up the defense and allowing room for Lewis. Washington is only allowing 83 yards on the ground and have only given up 3 TD's. I don't like Lewis for this game but I would start Anderson if I had to.

Washington will try to take advantage of a poor Cleveland rush defense that has given up 7 TD's and are allowing 137 ypg. Portis should have a nice game. One note is that Shaun Alexander has been signed by the Redskins. He has little fantasy value except as a handcuff to Portis. Cleveland's pass defense has been surprisingly good only giving up 188 ypg and 4 TD's thus far. I don't like Campbell this week but you have to start Moss if you have him.

Seattle at Tampa Bay:

Tampa Bay had an impressive win over Carolina last week. Their pass defense is struggling a little this year allowing 222 ypg and giving up 8 TD's. Luckily they can pad those stats a bit this week going against Seattle. Hasselbeck is out again which lowers Engrams value considerably. I would consider Julius Jones a low end #2 or 3 RB this week and he is the only Seattle player I could justify starting this week.

Warrick Dunn, despite the groans of fantasy owners nationwide appears to be the main carrier for Tampa Bay. He had 22 touches to Graham's five. Luckily Graham is still the red zone guy making both players #2 or 3 backs. Gruden said that they may be looking for a fullback which is what position Graham had to play last game. The coach also said that he prefers Graham as the rusher but until they find a fullback he will have to fill in. This will hurt the value of Graham but he still has the ability to post good numbers. It appears as if Garcia will be the QB again but keep your eye on the sitaution, neither Griese or Garcia have much fantasy value. None of the TB wide outs have much value either. Bryant should be used as a low end #3 with #2 potential.

Denver at New England:

Just when it looked like Cassel figured out how to throw to Moss they get shut down by the worst pass defense in the league. San Diego has allwoed 253 ypg in the air and 10 TD's. Luckily Cassel and the Patriots have another opportunity against a putrid pass defense. Denver has allwoed 255 ypg and have given up 9 TD's. Cutler and the Bronco's have come down to earth but still have big game potential. Marshall and Cutler are your only no brainers with Scheffler still questionable. You can't trust any Denver back as you never know who will get the carries.

The same goes for the Patriots who never show consistancy from the RB stand point. If you have to start a Patriot RB it's Sammy Morris. Moss is a must start against the Denver defense and Cassel is a starter if you need bye week fill-in or injury help.




Week 7 overview completed! Rankings still to come this week.

Updates to rankings

--Brian Westbrook has officially been ruled out for week 6. Adjust your lineup accordingly.

--Carson Palmer has been ruled out for week 6.

Fantasy Football Rankings Week 6

TO THE RANKINGS!

Running Backs

1. Adrian Peterson
2. Clinton Portis
3. Ronnie Brown
4. Matt Forte
5. Reggie Bush
6. Marion Barber
7. Frank Gore
8. Brandon Jacobs
9. Thomas Jones
10. Ryan Grant
12. Steven Jackson
12. LT
13. Joseph Addai
14. Correll Buckhalter
15. LeRon McClain
16. Steve Slaton
17. Willis McGahee
18. Jonathan Stewart
19. MJD
20. DeAngelo Williams
21. Julius Jones
22. Justin Fargas
23. Jamal Lewis
24. *Darren McFadden
25. Earnest Graham
26. Deuce McCalister
27. Sammy Morris
28. Edgerrin James
29. Tim Hightower
30. Warrick Dunn




Wide Receivers:

1. Randy Moss
2. Greg Jennings
3. Larry Fitzgerald
4. Brandon Marshall
5. Steve Smith
6. Reggie Wayne
7. Andre Johnson
8. Terrell Owens
9. Santana Moss
10. Plaxico Burress
11. **T.J. Houshmandzadeh
12. Torry Holt
13. Laveranues Coles
14. Roddy White
15. Wes Welker
16. Braylon Edwards
17. Jerricho Cotchery
18. *DeSean Jackson
19. Calvin Johnson
20. Bernard Berrian
21. Isaac Bruce
22. Donald Driver
23. **Chad Johnson
24. Roy Williams
25. Lance Moore
26. Steve Breaston
27. Marvin Harrison
28. Reggie Brown
29. Amani Toomer
30. Muhsin Muhammad

*Bumped because of Westbrook and Reggie Brown being out
**Palmer has been ruled out of week 6, lower expectations for Ocho


Quarterbacks:

1. Bret Favre
2. Tony Romo
3. Drew Brees
4. Kurt Warner
5. Aaron Rodgers
6. Jay Cutler
7. Eli Manning
8. Jason Campbell
9. Donovan McNabb
10. Kyle Orton
11. Matt Cassel
12. Philip Rivers
13. Peyton Manning
14. *Carson Palmer (Jake Delhomme)
15. David Garrard


*Palmer ruled out for week 6.


Tight Ends:

1. Chris Cooley
2. Jason Witten
3. Dallas Clark
4. Antonio Gates
5. *Kellen Winslow
6. Zach Miller
7. Owen Daniels
8. Anthony Fasano
9. John Carlson
10. Greg Olson
11. Donald Lee
12. Dustin Keller
13. Visanthe Shiancoe
14. L.J. Smith
15. Billy Miller

*Winslow went to the hospital on Thursday night with an undisclosed illness. He's questionable now for Monday.


D/ST:

1. New York Giants
2. Washington Redskins
3. Minnesota Vikings
4. Green Bay Packers
5. Chicago Bears
6. Carolina Panthers
7. Philadelphia Eagles
8. Baltimore Ravens
9. Tampa Bay
10. New Orleans Saints
11. Miami Dolphins
12. Indianapolis Colts
13. New York Jets
14. Dallas Cowboys
15. San Diego Chargers

Week 6 Fantasy Football matchup analysis

Here we are at my first week of projections. I have quit listening/reading the ESPN analysts so that I can see how I do without subconsciously regurgitating the experts views. How I'll do it for this week is go game by game and point out fantasy worthiness and key injuries. I will then rank players as I see them.



Baltimore at Indianapolis:
Two struggling offenses here. Manning has struggled most the year but in Manning-esque fashion still wound up 2-2 despite trailing in games in the last few minutes of both wins. Baltimore's defense seems to be somewhat back to form despite the age of Lewis and crew. Manning will look to pick up the pace and will likely have to pass frequently due to the Ravens tough run D. The Ravens are only allowing 192.5 yards per game while the Indianapolis Colts are allowing 353. Baltimore is also only allowing 64 yards on the ground. I look to see Wayne to have a big game and Harrison to get off the schneid. If you have Addai you likely have to start him but keep your expectations low.

On the other side of the ball I look for McClain to get 40 yards and a score and for McGahee, if in the lineup, to get close to a hundred total yards. Keep an eye on McGahee's status. He is questionable this week but was also questionable last week and still got 22 carries. Indy is a bad run defense allowing 188.5 y/g. In addition some key defenders are on the mend.

Oakland at New Orleans:
Saints are coming off a rough loss to Min and will be looking to beat up on a struggling Oakland team. The saints are putting up 406 total y/g and the Oak D is allowing 308. McFadden has been limited in practice and will likely be limited in the game as well. Cable has taken over for the fired Kiffin and has yet to declare a "starting" running back. Keep your expectations tempered for McFadden as well as Fargas, who is coming off a recent injury. The Saints just limited the most explosive RB in the NFL to 32 yards on 21 attempts and no TD's. Russell could be a reasonable start in deep leagues or bye week fill-in against a Saints team that has allowed 244.6 y/g in the air.

On the other side of the ball look for a possible Colston return this week. He has been practicing and is looking like a game time decision. Jeremy Shockey has also practiced but is less likely to play being only three weeks removed from a hernia surgery. Deuce McCalister should find the endzone as Oakland has allowed the 2nd most rushing TD's at 7. Brees is a must start as well as Bush.

Chicago at Atlanta:
Two teams fighting for control of their division appear to be evenly matched. Chicago's defense is looking like the wall of old allowing 74 rushing yards and 223 passing yards. Forte is a good start today against an ATL that allows 125 y/g and gave up a 121 to LJ alone in week 3. If you have a better play than Turner play him. He will likely struggle against a stout Chicago D. Look for Lloyd to have a nice game as well as Orton. Orton has 1100 yards, 7 TD's to 4 INT's and a 62% completion rate since taking over at the helm. He's a #1 QB this week feel safe starting him.

St. Louis at Washington:
This is a fantasy dream for Washington Redskins owners. STL is allowing 411 total yards, 166 on the ground to 245 in the air. You're obviously starting all your redskins if you have them. Randel El has had a couple nice games and Cooley came back from the dead last week. Look for Moss to rebound from an oh-fer last week. Portis should get 100+ yards and a score and is a top 5 RB this week. Campbell should also find it easy going on that pourous Stl defense. Randel El is a deep #3 starter.

On the Stl side you're starting S. Jackson but don't expect a huge game against a Washington defense that's allowing only 85 yards on the ground per game. Holt could have a big game as Stl will fall behind and have to throw. Bulger is back in at QB and is not a good start this week.

Detroit at Minnesota:
This is an Adrian Peterson owner's dream. After getting stuffed at the line against a surprisingly good New Orleans defense AP will be mad and will run all over the Lion's horrible defense. The Lions are allowing 249 passing yards and 180 rushing yards. It's looking like Kitna is out this week so downgrade Williams and Johnson. The Vikings defense is only allowing 68.4 yards on the ground so, the already horrible Detroit RB's, are a definite sit this week. Look for AP to have a monster game and Berrian to have another good game. Frerote is a deep start if you're struggling to find starters. He looked rough last week but did connect with Berrian for a 33 yard TD strike.

On a side note here Roy Williams has been mentioned in trade talks yet again this week. Trade deadline is next Tuesday and the 49's appear to be interested in Williams. Keep an eye on this, if he goes to the 49's I would bump the value of Williams a bit.

Cincinnati at Jets:
A trap game if ever I've seen. Favre and the Jets are coming off of a bye week and look to stick it to the Bengals. The Bengals are a bad team to date but have shown signs of life. Cinci is only allowing 167 y/g in the air and Favre will look to bring them down a bit. The Cinci rushing game is a mess and will likely continue to be. Coach Lewis said he is committing to give Benson some looks and just when Chris Perry was starting to look good. Neither one of them are good starts this week against a Jets team that is only allowing 75.5 yards on the ground. The Jet's pass defense is poor at best allowing 265 y/g. Look for Palmer to have a nice game if he's in the lineup and Housh should have close to 100 yards and a score. I look to see Chad Johnson get in the endzone as well. Favre should have a nice game despite the Bengals reasonably strong performance in the secondary.

Thomas Jones should have a big game against a bad Bengals run defense. Look for him to get 75 yards and a score. Coles and Cotchery should have nice games as well.

Carolina at Tampa Bay
Should be a hard nosed, smash mouth game. Both teams are allowing right at 100 yards per game on the ground. Carolina's pass defense is a bit better. Graham and Dunn are both getting a good bit of touches effectively reducing both of their value. Carolina has only allowed 1 rushing TD all year. Griese still couldn't practice Thursday and it looks like Garcia will get the nod. This lowers Ike Hilliard and Bryants value as well.

DeAngelo Williams is the most recent heart breaker that was on most people's bench last week when he blew up for three scores. Despite his huge game I don't like him as anything more than a low #2 this week. Stewart is still looking like the goal line back and has 65 total carries to Williams' 74. Both of these guys are #2/3 starters. Delhomme could have a nice game against a TB defense that is allowing 218 yards. Look for this to be a run first game but you're obviously starting Smith if you have him. Against a good cover 2 defense look for a lot of quick slants to Steve Smith with his ability to turn these into big plays he could have a good week.

Miami at Houston:
Houston is looking to get their first win against the surprising 2-2 Miami Dolphins. Ronnie Brown is obviously back in charge of the rushing tandem and appears to be back to form. Schaub is saying he's going to play so that should help Johnson's value, although if he plays like he did last week it won't matter if it's Sage or Schaub throwing the rock. Look for Slaton to have a good game with 60 yards and a score. Whiel Green ran effectively last week and will likely steal some carries from Slaton, this job is Slaton's so expect better performance from Slaton than Green.

Jacksonville at Denver:
Denver came to earth the last couple games and will likely have a tough game this week as well. Jacksonville's defense isn't what it used to be but are still allowing 106 rushing yards and 237 passing. Look for Cutler and Marshall to have a bounceback game. Keep an eye on Royal, Shanahan recently said he does expect him to be there. Shanahan is always a fantasy's worst enemy so keep an eye on the situation.

If you have MJD you're probably starting him but don't expect a lot. Except for his one hundred yard game his highest total is 32 yards. He does have a nose for the endzone though.

Philadelphia at San Francisco:
Both teams are sitting at 2-3 and the Eagles are finding themselves on the outside looking in on the best division in the conference. Many picked Philly as the favorites going into the year. The Eagle's tough run defense got cut up by Portis last week and look for Gore to struggle a bit against an annoyed Philly defense. The Eagle's are allowing only 190 yards in the air. Look for Bruce to have around 50 yards and a TD.

Keep an eye on Westbrook, they're saying he could play but you never know. If you have Buckhalter watch the inactives before you start either one of them. If he does play he will likely be limited although you never know if he will be limited or put up 150 yards and 2 scores. If Westbrook can't go look to Buckhalter for 100 yards and a score.

Green Bay at Seattle:
Rodgers say's he's playing and will probably have a monster game if he does. The Seattle team is struggling to put up any points or stop anybody from doing it. Look for Grant to get 100 yards and a touchdown and for Jennings and Driver to both be good plays this week. The Packers are allowing 161 yards per game on the ground Julius Jones has the potential of having a great game. You have to be worried about Seattle getting behind and having to stay in the air. Engram should have a good game with a lot of short receptions. In a point per catch league he's a must start. The only people you're starting on the Seahawks is Jon Carlson and Julius Jones. Hasselbeck is still hampered and hopes to play. He's still questionable.

Dallas at Arizona:
Dallas barely pulled off a win against a struggling Bengals team. Pacman Jones is in the news and TO found Jesus the last couple weeks. On the other side of the ball Warner is throwing like Tony Romo used to! He's got 10 TD's on the year to 4 INT's and 1472 yards. The Arizona team will probably not run too much with a good Dallas rush defense. Warner and Fitzgerald will likely have big games. I also expect Breaston to have 75 yards and a score.

Barber will have a nice game unless Dallas falls behind with a depleted secondary. TO will have 100 yards and a score and Witten will finish with 75 yards. Felix Jones is a reasonable flex option. Romo is obviously a must start.

New England at Chargers:
The Chargers will try to play like the team people thought they were. Their defense has struggled since losing Merrimen. They have allowed 265 y/g in the air and 113 on the ground. Look for Cassel and Moss to have big games. Welker should do well also with 100 yards. The Patriots are only allowing 175 yards in the air and I expect River to struggle with a depleted running game unable to take attention away from him. Chambers is iffy for Sunday's game with an ankle injury and if he doesn't play downgrade Rivers more.

LT admitted that his toe is bothering him and said he's going to have to "play through the pain". Temper your expectations with him.

Giants at Cleveland:
Jacobs and the Giants are coming off of a monster win against SEA. Jacobs ran like a stud and Manning threw like one. The Giants will get back their number one option Burress from his suspension and look to put it to a struggling Cleveland team. Clevaland is averaging 211 yards from scrimmage and will find it difficult to get anything past the Giants stout pass rush. Manning, Jacobs and Burress are must starts with Tumor as a deep starter.

Derek Anderson has struggled more than almost any big name this year except his star receiver Edwards. Edwards has 95 yards and 1 TD in 4 games. Anderson has 3 TD's to 6 INT's this year with a completion rate under 50%. Look for Quinn to get some snaps if Anderson doesn't play well in the next week or two. Jamal Lewis is a number 3 starter this week and Winslow is a low #1.




Phew...first week down! I will do rankings tomorrow.