I'm back from Thanksgiving and back to the useless analysis! I hope everybody's Thanksgiving was awesome.
Oakland at San Diego:
Week 14 starts with a doozy! Oakland is bad, very very bad! Ironically they are not too bad on the passing side of the ball. Oakland is allowing just 192 yards per game in the air but have yielded 12 TDs thus far.
San Diego has struggled and LT has not looked to form. LT should have a decent game against an Oakland team that allows 159 yards per game on the ground and has yielded 17 rushing TDs. LT will likely make your lineup but he is not the LT of last year. Philip Rivers has been hit or miss this year as usual but should probably be in your lineup against Oakland. Gates is a must start as well.
On the Oakland side of the ball, as usual, you aren't excited about starting anybody from the Raiders team. McFadden is nothing more than a #3 this week despite the fact that Denver is allowing 144 yards on the ground per game and have allowed 17 rushing TDs. Justin Fargas has been getting the bulk of the load and will continue to be the main back in Oakland.
Jacksonville at Chicago:
Jacksonville got handled by Houston last week and will have another tough game this week against an angry Bears team. Chicago got walloped last week by the Vikings and will try to show that they are better than putrid. Chicago is allowing just 89 yards on the ground per game but have allowed 13 rushing TDs thus far. MJD is a good start this week as Jacksonville will probably want to establish the run game against a Chicago team that runs the ball effectively. David Garrard and Matt Jones should have a decent game this week against the Bears defense that is allowing 241 yards per game and have allowed 14 passing TDs this year.
Kyle Orton would have had a decent fantasy week last week if not for the 3 interceptions and should have a reasonable game against a Jacksonville team that allows 205 yards per game in the air and have allowed 19 passing TDs. Devon Hester found the endzone last week and is a reasonable start this week. Brandon Lloyd, the flavor of the week a month ago isn't worth starting at this point until he proves he is healthy and a part of the offense. Greg Olsen is a good start this week. On the rushing side Matt Forte is a must start at this point regardless of match-up but at 248 attempts thus far may experience some slow down in the back side of the year. Jacksonville is allowing 115 yards per game on the ground and have yielded 11 rushing TDs.
Minnesota at Detroit:
It looks like Minnesota's defense line may keep their backbone players this week since the NFLPA filed a suit to block the suspension of the 5 players in the StarCaps diuretic suspension. Keep an eye on this but it really shouldn't effect your decisions for this week unless you're very shallow at running back.
Minnesota is allowing a stingy 73.1 yards per game on the ground with 9 TDs allowed. This is, in large part, due to the incredible play of Kevin and Pat Williams of the Vikings who are both facing suspension. If they are suspended for 4 games consider the Vikings a mediocre run defense. Kevin Smith could be a deep start but until further notice the only person you're starting with any confidence is Calvin Johnson.
Detroit is bad, you are starting AP, Berrian and maybe Shiancoe if you're struggling at Tight end.
Cleveland at Tennessee:
In non-keeper leagues Braylon Edwards should not be in your lineup or bench! He is officially dropable. I am officially labeling Edwards as the biggest bust of the year. Even more of a bust than his QB Derek Anderson, who is out the rest of the season along with Brady Quinn. There is literally nobody that I would want to own on the Browns in non-keeper leagues. Kellen Winslow has been ruled out for week 14 so be sure to pull him from your lineup if you haven't already.
On the Tennessee side of the ball you're going to start Chris Johnson and LenDale White. White, who had a couple rough games the last few weeks came out gang busters last week and put up great numbers again, in large part to his nose for the end zone. Cleveland is allowing 141 yards per game on the ground and have allowed 11 rushing scores. I wouldn't be surprised to see White and Johnson pass the century marker this week in yards.
Cincinnati at Indianapolis:
Too bad Lewis doesn't like using a consistent running back because the Colts can be run on. They have allowed 134 yards per game and have allowed 15 rushing TDs. Unfortunately none of the Bengals are good starts since you don't know who will be the man. In the air Housh is the only person that you would start from the Bengals and even he isn't a great option against a stout Colts pass defense. The Colts are allowing just 199 yards per game in the air and have only allowed 4 passing TDs. Despite the tough pass defense Housh still gets 5-7 receptions a week and if one of those are for a score he will have a nice game.
The Colts came out with another crazy win last week in which Manning did very little and the Colts struggled the whole game. What they need is to play the Bengals. The Bengals are allowing 225 yards per game in the air and 132 yards per game on the ground with 18 and 14 TDs allowed respectively. Look for Wayne, Gonzalez,Clark and Manning to be good starts this week. Joseph Addai put up another putrid game after finally showing a flash of what he used to be. At this point Addai is a, "start at your own risk" running back. His upside probably deserves a spot in your lineup but if you have other solid options I would consider him a risky start.
Atlanta at New Orleans:
The Saints lost a tough one last week by a field goal to Tampa Bay. Brees threw two tough interceptions in the last couple minutes to let the Buck's take the game. Deuce McAllister is probably out for the rest of the year with a suspension but keep your eye on the situation because the NFLPA has filed a suit to delay the suspension. Even if Deuce plays he has minimal value. Reggie Bush will play this week and always has the opportunity to blow up but don't expect great things against a Falcons team that is allowing 116 yards per game on the ground and 14 TDs on the year. In the air Brees is a must start, as usual. Atlanta is allowing 222 yards per game in the air and have allowed 14 TDs to date. Colston has shown he's part of the offense again and if he finds the end zone he will start putting up phenomenal numbers. Lance Moore is another receiver that you should seriously consider putting in your lineup. He has consistently put numbers up even with Colston back in the lineup.
Matt Ryan had another successful game last week and he is close to a must start at this point. New Orleans is a bad pass defense that allows 224 yards per game and have yielded 19 TDs through the air. Matt Ryan and Roddy White should be in your lineup until they prove otherwise and you should expect good things from them. On the ground Michael Turner will be in your lineup. New Orleans allows 114 yards on the ground per game and have yielded just 8 rushing TDs. Turner may not be top 5 this week but he's top 10 and will need to be in your lineup.
Philadelphia at New York Giants:
Welcome back Brian Westbrook. Westbrook, in a game that some trainers were quoted saying he wouldn't make it out of the first quarter, went off for 100+ yards and 4 scores. He will have a tough match-up this week against a tougher rush defense, even though Arizona is no slouch on the ground. The Giants are allowing just 85 yards per game and have only given up 7 rushing TDs. In the air the giants are allowing 194 yards per game and have allowed 13 passing TDs. McNabb had a monster game last week but will likely struggle this week against a Giants team that has 16 interceptions and 36 sacks to date. DeSean Jackson and Kevin Kurtis are #3 starters this week.
Brandon Jacobs ran well against a stacked Washington line last week and should have a decent game this week as well. Philadelphia is allowing just 94 yards per game on the ground but have only allowed 6 rushing TDs. Plaxico Buress is out and this means that Toomer and Steve Smith are reasonable starts against a Philly team that is allowing 214 yards per game and have yielded 18 TDs in the air. Manning is a good start and generally shows up for divisional games. Kevin Boss could be a deeper tight end but he has been hot or cold this year.
Kansas City at Denver:
Denver is coming off of a big win at the Jets where Cutler threw for 357 yards and he should continue his strong play this week and must be in your lineups. Peyton Hillis the running back that you want to start from Denver and would be a decent play against a KC rush defense that Allows 164 yards per game on the ground and have yielded 20 TDs. Tony Scheffler and Marshall are must starts. Despite Marshall's quiet games he still has too much upside to not be in your lineup.
On the KC side of the ball Larry XXXXXXX (those of you that follow my blog know that I won't type his last name because of my hatred of him) got two scores last week and will probably have a good game this week against a bad Denver defense. Denver allows 159 yards per game on the ground and have allowed 17 TDs. As much as it pains me Larry probably needs to be in your lineup. Thigpen, Dwayne Bowe and Tony Gonzalez must be in your lineup. Denver is allowing 236 yards per game in the air and have allowed 15 TDs in the air.
Miami at Buffalo:
A mediocre game played by two mediocre teams.
Buffalo is allowing 205 yards per game in the air while allowing 12 TDs to date. Chad Pennington had a weak game last week and will try to get back on track. Ginn is a deep #3 or #4 receiver this week. Davone Bess should be picked up in all leagues in the absence of Greg Camarillo but is a risky start at the moment. Ronnie Brown is decent but not great start this week against a Bills team that gives up 110 yards per game on the ground and have yielded 13 TDs thus far. Now that teams have tape on the "wildcat" formation Brown has slowed down to human like numbers but is still a pretty good play.
Trent Edwards is questionable with a groin injury for Sunday so keep your eye on this. If Lossman has to go I don't expect Brown's value to change but I do downgrade Lee Evans, the only person on the Bills receiving core that you want to start on a normal basis. Miami is allowing 233 yards per game in the air and have allowed 15 passing TDs to date. On the ground Lynch should probably be in your lineup but his lack of nose for the end zone is holding him back from being a top 5 running back.
New York Jets at San Francisco:
The Jets lost a bad game last week to Denver and will look to get back on track against a bad 49'ers team. Thomas Jones has entered elite status in large part to his nose for the end zone and should be in your lineup every week despite match-up. Especially this week Jones needs to be in your lineup. The Jets' offensive line have only allowed 23 sacks this year and this is giving Thomas Jones big lanes to run through. Jones is averaging almost 4.7 yards per carry and should dominate this week against a 49'ers team that allows 108 yards per game and have yielded 10 rushing TDs. Favre, Coles, Cotchery and Keller should be good plays this week against a bad 49'ers pass defense that allows 240 yards per game and have given up 18 TDs to date.
On the 49'ers side of the ball nobody are great starts but Isaac Bruce and Shaun Hill will be serviceable. The Jets have a bad pass defense that has allowed 249 yards per game and have yielded 17 TDs through the air. On the ground the Jets are stout and Frank Gore should not have a big game. The Jets rank 4th overall in rush defense and are allowing just 82.1 yards per game and have only yielded 8 rushing TDs.
New England at Seattle:
Matt Cassel and friends came down to earth last week but should begin their floating again this week. Seattle is allowing a league worst 265 yards per game in the air and have yielded 19 passing TDs to date. Welker is questionable for Sunday after a monster hit by Ryan Clark of the Steeler's. If he plays he should be in your lineup and obviously Randy Moss should make your lineup as well. Matt Cassel is a good start this week.
On the Seattle side of the ball nobody is a good start. Julius Jones has proven why he's not a viable fantasy option by not getting yards or TDs. A lot of this is due to the Seahawks' awful team but still nobody has value except John Carlson.
St. Louis at Arizona:
Kurt Warner is having an MVP year and is an absolute must start every week. Especially this week though. St. Louis is a bad team that has allowed 220 yards per game in the air and have yielded 16 passing TDs. Anquan Boldin and Larry Fitzgerald are must starts and could easily be the #1 and #2 receivers in all of fantasy football this week. Steve Breaston should be in the mix this week as well and is a worthwhile start in a deeper format. Tim Hightower, after a couple quiet weeks, should be in your lineup this week. St. Louis allows 162 yards per game on the ground and have yielded 21 rushing TDs.
On the Rams side of the ball there are no for sure starts this week. Steven Jackson should be in your lineup but don't expect great stats. Arizona is allowing 98 yards per game on the ground and have yielded 10 TDs on the ground. Donnie Avery is not a safe start and neither is Holt at this point. Bulger may or may not play at this point but he shouldn't be in your lineup either way. He is on your bench in keeper leagues or dropped if not.
Dallas at Pittsburgh:
Dallas' elite offense will go against the most elite defense in the league. Pittsburgh is allowing just 71 yards per game on the ground and 5 TDs total. In the air they are allowing just 167 yards per game and 10 TDs in the air. Terrell Owens had a nice game on Thanksgiving and will look to continue that but it will be tough. Pittsburgh has 13 interceptions and 42 sacks. Tony Romo and Jason Witten are my only two Cowboys that I am starting without thinking. The physical play of the Steelers should prove challenging for the Cowboys. Ultimately the Cowboys' offense is high octane and have the ability to put up huge numbers against any defense in the league.
Ben Roethlisberger slipped during practice and tweaked his knee but is not expected to be slowed down at all. Ben Roethlisberger has been 36 times and could have a long day if the Steeler's can't give him proper protection. The Cowboys have 40 sacks and could make it a long week for the Steeler's offense. It's looking like Willie Parker will play this week so he should probably be in your lineup. Heath Miller will play and has value as a tight end that may have been dropped during his health issues and weak performances.
Washington at Baltimore:
Clinton Portis, who is banged up and coming off of a bad week, will likely struggle again. The Ravens allow just 78 yards per game on the ground and have given up just 3 rushing TDs. In the air Jason Campbell will have a tough game against a Ravens team that allows just 175 yards per game in the air and have a league leading 20 takeaways for the year. Santana Moss should be in your lineup regardless of match-up because of his big play potential but none of the Redskins are "safe" starts this week, especially Portis.
The Ravens are still managing to put points on the board despite not having a consistent running back. It is unsafe to start any Ravens back but if you have to start one I'm still starting McGahee. In the air Derrick Mason has the most value but nobody on the Ravens team are phenomenal starts against a stout Washington pass defense that allows just 192 yards per game in the air and 91 on the ground.
Tampa Bay at Carolina:
Tampa Bay came out of last weeks game with a W despite the close game. Garcia and company will look to battle for a playoff spot against divisional rivals and will need a W to stay in the front of the pack. Warrick Dunn is still active and could be a good start against a Panthers team that is allowing 113 yards per game and have allowed 10 TDs. Antonio Bryant has another good game last week and should be a nice start this week with the Panthers allowing 201 yards per game and have allowed 11 passing TDs.
DeAngelo Williams went O-F-F last week but will likely hit a wall this week. While Tampa Bay have allowed 95 yards per game on the ground they have only given up 1 rushing TD all season. They are stingy in the red zone and Williams may not find a hole against a tough line. Steve Smith and Delhomme may struggle again against a Tampa Bay team that allows just 184 yards per game. On the bright side for the Panther's passing game the Bucks have allowed 16 passing TDs.
Thursday, December 4, 2008
Week 14 fantasy rankings!
Running Back
1. Adrian Peterson
2. Thomas Jones
3. Steve Slaton
4. Matt Forte
5. LaDainian Tomlinson
6. Michael Turner
7. Chris Johnson
8. Larry Johnson
9. Brandon Jacobs
10. Peyton Hillis
11. Brian Westbrook
12. Marshawn Lynch
13. Joseph Addai
14. Steven Jackson
15. DeAngelo Williams
16. Frank Gore
17. Ryan Grant
18. Clinton Portis
19. Maurice Jones-Drew
20. Marion Barber
21. Ronnie Brown
22. Tim Hightower
23. LenDale White
24. Warrick Dunn
25. Justin Fargas
26. Reggie Bush
27. Willie Parker
28. Kevin Smith
29. Jamal Lewis
30. Pierre Thomas
31. Sammy Morris
32. Derrick Ward
33. Le'Ron McClain
34. Cedric Benson
35. Darren McFadden
36. Leon Washington
37. Chester Taylor
38. Ricky Williams
39. Fred Taylor
40. Mewelde Moore
Wide Receivers
1. Larry Fitzgerald
2. Anquan Boldin
3. Randy Moss
4. Greg Jennings
5. Roddy White
6. Andre Johnson
7. Calvin Johnson
8. Reggie Wayne
9. Brandon Marshall
10. Terrell Owens
11. Marques Colston
12. Dwayne Bowe
13. Lance Moore
14. Steve Smith
15. Bernard Berrian
16. Antonio Bryant
17. Lee Evans
18. Hines Ward
19. Jerricho Cotchery
20. Wes Welker
21. Eddie Royal
22. Donald Driver
23. Laveranues Coles
24. T.J. Houshmandzadeh
25. Santana Moss
26. Amani Toomer
27. Isaac Bruce
28. DeSean Jackson
29. Kevin Walter
30. Santonio Holmes
31. Marvin Harrison
32. Steve Breaston
33. Ted Ginn Jr.
34. Derrick Mason
35. Devin Hester
36. Davone Bess
37. Kevin Curtis
38. Anthony Gonzalez
39. Braylon Edwards
40. Domenik Hixon
Quarterbacks
1. Kurt Warner
2. Drew Brees
3. Peyton Manning
4. Jay Cutler
5. Aaron Rodgers
6. Matt Cassel
7. Brett Favre
8. Matt Ryan
9. Tyler Thigpen
10. Tony Romo
11. Eli Manning
12. Ben Roethlisberger
13. Chad Pennington
14. Kyle Orton
15. Philip Rivers
16. Donovan McNabb
17. Shaun Hill
18. Jeff Garcia
19. Joe Flacco
20. David Garrard
Tight Ends
1. Tony Gonzalez
2. Antonio Gates
3. Tony Scheffler
4. Dallas Clark
5. Jason Witten
6. Dustin Keller
7. Zach Miller
8. Kevin Boss
9. Owen Daniels
10. Chris Cooley
11. Greg Olsen
12. John Carlson
13. Bo Scaife
14. Jeremy Shockey
15. Donald Lee
1. Adrian Peterson
2. Thomas Jones
3. Steve Slaton
4. Matt Forte
5. LaDainian Tomlinson
6. Michael Turner
7. Chris Johnson
8. Larry Johnson
9. Brandon Jacobs
10. Peyton Hillis
11. Brian Westbrook
12. Marshawn Lynch
13. Joseph Addai
14. Steven Jackson
15. DeAngelo Williams
16. Frank Gore
17. Ryan Grant
18. Clinton Portis
19. Maurice Jones-Drew
20. Marion Barber
21. Ronnie Brown
22. Tim Hightower
23. LenDale White
24. Warrick Dunn
25. Justin Fargas
26. Reggie Bush
27. Willie Parker
28. Kevin Smith
29. Jamal Lewis
30. Pierre Thomas
31. Sammy Morris
32. Derrick Ward
33. Le'Ron McClain
34. Cedric Benson
35. Darren McFadden
36. Leon Washington
37. Chester Taylor
38. Ricky Williams
39. Fred Taylor
40. Mewelde Moore
Wide Receivers
1. Larry Fitzgerald
2. Anquan Boldin
3. Randy Moss
4. Greg Jennings
5. Roddy White
6. Andre Johnson
7. Calvin Johnson
8. Reggie Wayne
9. Brandon Marshall
10. Terrell Owens
11. Marques Colston
12. Dwayne Bowe
13. Lance Moore
14. Steve Smith
15. Bernard Berrian
16. Antonio Bryant
17. Lee Evans
18. Hines Ward
19. Jerricho Cotchery
20. Wes Welker
21. Eddie Royal
22. Donald Driver
23. Laveranues Coles
24. T.J. Houshmandzadeh
25. Santana Moss
26. Amani Toomer
27. Isaac Bruce
28. DeSean Jackson
29. Kevin Walter
30. Santonio Holmes
31. Marvin Harrison
32. Steve Breaston
33. Ted Ginn Jr.
34. Derrick Mason
35. Devin Hester
36. Davone Bess
37. Kevin Curtis
38. Anthony Gonzalez
39. Braylon Edwards
40. Domenik Hixon
Quarterbacks
1. Kurt Warner
2. Drew Brees
3. Peyton Manning
4. Jay Cutler
5. Aaron Rodgers
6. Matt Cassel
7. Brett Favre
8. Matt Ryan
9. Tyler Thigpen
10. Tony Romo
11. Eli Manning
12. Ben Roethlisberger
13. Chad Pennington
14. Kyle Orton
15. Philip Rivers
16. Donovan McNabb
17. Shaun Hill
18. Jeff Garcia
19. Joe Flacco
20. David Garrard
Tight Ends
1. Tony Gonzalez
2. Antonio Gates
3. Tony Scheffler
4. Dallas Clark
5. Jason Witten
6. Dustin Keller
7. Zach Miller
8. Kevin Boss
9. Owen Daniels
10. Chris Cooley
11. Greg Olsen
12. John Carlson
13. Bo Scaife
14. Jeremy Shockey
15. Donald Lee
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Week 12 Fantasy Football Rankings
Running Backs
1. Matt Forte (Chicago Bears)
2. Marshawn Lynch (Buffalo Bills)
3. LaDanian Tomlinson (San Diego Chargers)
4. Adrian Peterson (Minnesota Vikings)
5. Marion Barber (Dallas Cowboys)
6. Clinton Portis (Washington Redskins)
7. Ryan Grant (Green Bay Packers)
8. Frank Gore (49'ers)
9. Willie Parker (Pittsburgh Steeler's)
10. Steve Slaton (Houston Texans)
11. Warrick Dunn (Tampa Bay)
12. Joseph Addai (Colts)
13. Michael Turner (Falcons)
14. Brian Westbrook (Philadelphia Eagles)
15. Brandon Jacobs (New York Giants)
16. DeAngelo Williams (Carolina Panthers)
17. Chris Johnson (Tennessee)
18. Maurice Jones-Drew (Jacksonville Jaguars)
19. Jamal Lewis (Cleveland Browns)
20. Ronnie Brown (Miami)
21. Thomas Jones (Jets)
22. Reggie Bush (New Orleans)
23. Justin Fargas (Oakland)
24. Willis McGahee (Baltimore Ravens)
25. Peyton Hillis (Broncos)
26. Jonathan Stewar (Carolina Panthers)
27. Larry Johnson (Kansas City)
28. Kevin Smith (Detroit)
29. LenDale White (Tennessee)
30. Darren McFadden (Oakland)
31. Antonio Pittman (St Louis)
32. Tim Hightower (Cardinals)
33. Sammy Morris (Patriots)
34. Fred Jackson (Buffalo Bills)
35. Julius Jones (Seattle)
36. Derrick Ward (New York Giants)
37. Deuce McAllister (New Orleans Saints)
38. Ahman Green (Houston Texans)
39. Mewelde Moore (Pittsburgh Steelers)
40. Cedric Benson (Bengals)
Wide Receivers
1. Reggie Wayne (Colts)
2. Greg Jennings (Packers)
3. Anquan Boldin (Cardinals)
4. Steve Smith (Panthers)
5. Larry Fitzgerald (Cardinals)
6. Calvin Johnson (Detroit)
7. Roddy White (Falcons)
8. Terrell Owens (Dallas)
9. Andre Johnson (Houston Texans)
10. Brandon Marshall (Denver Broncos)
11. Dwayne Bowe (Kansas City)
12. Randy Moss (Patriots)
13. Hines Ward (Pittsburgh Steelers)
14. Santana Moss (Washington Redskins)
15. Marques Colston (New Orleans Saints)
16. Braylon Edwards (Cleveland Browns)
17. Wes Welker (New England Patriots)
18. Antonio Bryant (Tampa Bay)
19. Eddie Royal (Denver Broncos)
20. T.J. Houshmandzadeh (Cincinnati Bengals)
21. Lee Evans (Buffalo Bills)
22. Donnie Avery
23. Plaxico Burress (Giants)
24. Lance Moore (New Orleans Saints)
25. Donald Driver (Packers)
26. Kevin Walter (Houston Texans)
27. Marvin Harrison (Colts)
28. DeSean Jackson (Philadelphia Eagles)
29. Bernard Berrian (Vikings)
30. Ted Ginn Jr. (Dolphins)
31. Laveranues Coles (Jets)
32. Justin Gage (Tennessee Titans)
33. Steve Breaston (Arizona Cardinals)
34. Jericho Cotchery (Jets)
35. Kevin Curtis (Philadelphia Eagles)
36. Roy Williams (Dallas Cowboys)
37. Derrick Mason (Baltimore Ravens)
38. Torry Holt (St Louis Rams)
39. Greg Camarillo (Miami Dolphins)
40. Santonio Holmes (Pittsburgh Steelers)
Quarterbacks
1. Peyton Manning (Colts)
2. Aaron Rodgers (Green Bay Packers)
3. Drew Brees (New Orleans)
4. Tony Romo (Dallas Cowboys)
5. Jay Cutler (Denver Broncos)
6. Kurt Warner (Arizona Cardinals)
7. Matt Cassel (New England)
8. Eli Manning (New York Giants)
9. Philip Rivers (San Diego Chargers)
10. Jeff Garcia (Tampa Bay)
11. Jason Campbell (Washington Redskins)
12. Brett Favre (Jets)
13. Kyle Orton (Chicago Bears)
14. Ben Roethilsberger (Steelers)
15. Matt Ryan (Falcons)
16. Chad Pennington (Miami Dolphins)
17. Donovan McNabb (Philadelphia Eagles)
18. Kerry Collins (Tennessee Titans)
19. Brady Quinn (Cleveland Browns)
20. Jake Delhomme (Carolina Panthers)
Tight Ends
1. Dallas Clark (Colts)
2. Antonio Gates (San Diego Chargers)
3. Tony Gonzalez (Chiefs)
4. Kellen Winslow (Cleveland Browns)
5. Jason Witten (Dalls Cowboys)
6. Chris Cooley (Redskins)
7. Owen Daniels (Houston Texans)
8. Greg Olsen (Bears)
9. Dustin Keller (Jets)
10. Bo Scaife (Tennessee Titans
11. Tony Scheffler (Broncos)
12. Vernon Davis (49'ers)
13. John Carlson (Seahawks)
14. Zach Miller (Oakland)
15. Kevin Boss (Giants)
Defense/Special Teams
1. Pittsburgh Steelers
2. Tampa Bay
3. Chicago Bears
4. Tennessee Titans
5. Baltimore Ravens
6. Philadelphia Eagles
7. Washington Redskins
8. Dallas Cowboys
9. Minnesota Vikings
10. New York Giants
11. Carolina Panthers
12. Green Bay Packers
13. New York Jets
14. Jacksonville Jaguars
15. Miami Dolphins
1. Matt Forte (Chicago Bears)
2. Marshawn Lynch (Buffalo Bills)
3. LaDanian Tomlinson (San Diego Chargers)
4. Adrian Peterson (Minnesota Vikings)
5. Marion Barber (Dallas Cowboys)
6. Clinton Portis (Washington Redskins)
7. Ryan Grant (Green Bay Packers)
8. Frank Gore (49'ers)
9. Willie Parker (Pittsburgh Steeler's)
10. Steve Slaton (Houston Texans)
11. Warrick Dunn (Tampa Bay)
12. Joseph Addai (Colts)
13. Michael Turner (Falcons)
14. Brian Westbrook (Philadelphia Eagles)
15. Brandon Jacobs (New York Giants)
16. DeAngelo Williams (Carolina Panthers)
17. Chris Johnson (Tennessee)
18. Maurice Jones-Drew (Jacksonville Jaguars)
19. Jamal Lewis (Cleveland Browns)
20. Ronnie Brown (Miami)
21. Thomas Jones (Jets)
22. Reggie Bush (New Orleans)
23. Justin Fargas (Oakland)
24. Willis McGahee (Baltimore Ravens)
25. Peyton Hillis (Broncos)
26. Jonathan Stewar (Carolina Panthers)
27. Larry Johnson (Kansas City)
28. Kevin Smith (Detroit)
29. LenDale White (Tennessee)
30. Darren McFadden (Oakland)
31. Antonio Pittman (St Louis)
32. Tim Hightower (Cardinals)
33. Sammy Morris (Patriots)
34. Fred Jackson (Buffalo Bills)
35. Julius Jones (Seattle)
36. Derrick Ward (New York Giants)
37. Deuce McAllister (New Orleans Saints)
38. Ahman Green (Houston Texans)
39. Mewelde Moore (Pittsburgh Steelers)
40. Cedric Benson (Bengals)
Wide Receivers
1. Reggie Wayne (Colts)
2. Greg Jennings (Packers)
3. Anquan Boldin (Cardinals)
4. Steve Smith (Panthers)
5. Larry Fitzgerald (Cardinals)
6. Calvin Johnson (Detroit)
7. Roddy White (Falcons)
8. Terrell Owens (Dallas)
9. Andre Johnson (Houston Texans)
10. Brandon Marshall (Denver Broncos)
11. Dwayne Bowe (Kansas City)
12. Randy Moss (Patriots)
13. Hines Ward (Pittsburgh Steelers)
14. Santana Moss (Washington Redskins)
15. Marques Colston (New Orleans Saints)
16. Braylon Edwards (Cleveland Browns)
17. Wes Welker (New England Patriots)
18. Antonio Bryant (Tampa Bay)
19. Eddie Royal (Denver Broncos)
20. T.J. Houshmandzadeh (Cincinnati Bengals)
21. Lee Evans (Buffalo Bills)
22. Donnie Avery
23. Plaxico Burress (Giants)
24. Lance Moore (New Orleans Saints)
25. Donald Driver (Packers)
26. Kevin Walter (Houston Texans)
27. Marvin Harrison (Colts)
28. DeSean Jackson (Philadelphia Eagles)
29. Bernard Berrian (Vikings)
30. Ted Ginn Jr. (Dolphins)
31. Laveranues Coles (Jets)
32. Justin Gage (Tennessee Titans)
33. Steve Breaston (Arizona Cardinals)
34. Jericho Cotchery (Jets)
35. Kevin Curtis (Philadelphia Eagles)
36. Roy Williams (Dallas Cowboys)
37. Derrick Mason (Baltimore Ravens)
38. Torry Holt (St Louis Rams)
39. Greg Camarillo (Miami Dolphins)
40. Santonio Holmes (Pittsburgh Steelers)
Quarterbacks
1. Peyton Manning (Colts)
2. Aaron Rodgers (Green Bay Packers)
3. Drew Brees (New Orleans)
4. Tony Romo (Dallas Cowboys)
5. Jay Cutler (Denver Broncos)
6. Kurt Warner (Arizona Cardinals)
7. Matt Cassel (New England)
8. Eli Manning (New York Giants)
9. Philip Rivers (San Diego Chargers)
10. Jeff Garcia (Tampa Bay)
11. Jason Campbell (Washington Redskins)
12. Brett Favre (Jets)
13. Kyle Orton (Chicago Bears)
14. Ben Roethilsberger (Steelers)
15. Matt Ryan (Falcons)
16. Chad Pennington (Miami Dolphins)
17. Donovan McNabb (Philadelphia Eagles)
18. Kerry Collins (Tennessee Titans)
19. Brady Quinn (Cleveland Browns)
20. Jake Delhomme (Carolina Panthers)
Tight Ends
1. Dallas Clark (Colts)
2. Antonio Gates (San Diego Chargers)
3. Tony Gonzalez (Chiefs)
4. Kellen Winslow (Cleveland Browns)
5. Jason Witten (Dalls Cowboys)
6. Chris Cooley (Redskins)
7. Owen Daniels (Houston Texans)
8. Greg Olsen (Bears)
9. Dustin Keller (Jets)
10. Bo Scaife (Tennessee Titans
11. Tony Scheffler (Broncos)
12. Vernon Davis (49'ers)
13. John Carlson (Seahawks)
14. Zach Miller (Oakland)
15. Kevin Boss (Giants)
Defense/Special Teams
1. Pittsburgh Steelers
2. Tampa Bay
3. Chicago Bears
4. Tennessee Titans
5. Baltimore Ravens
6. Philadelphia Eagles
7. Washington Redskins
8. Dallas Cowboys
9. Minnesota Vikings
10. New York Giants
11. Carolina Panthers
12. Green Bay Packers
13. New York Jets
14. Jacksonville Jaguars
15. Miami Dolphins
Week 12 Fantasy Football Match-up Analysis!
Cincinnati at Pittsburgh
Cincinnati will have their work cut out for them against the #1 defense in the league. Pittsburgh is allowing just 69 yards per game on the ground and have yielded just 4 rushing TDs this year. The Bengal's still don't have a premier running back and you likely wouldn't have any of their running backs in your lineup anyway but if you had them in your lineup sit them this week. Fitzpatrick has been playing a little better and the Bengal's had a good game in the air last week but don't expect much against a stout Steeler's pass defense that is allowing just 169 yards per game and have given up 9 passing TDs all year. Houshmandzedah is the only person you're starting on the Bengals and temper your expectations for him as well. Chad Ocho-Cinco has been deactivated for this weeks game for breaking a rule(s) of the team. This means that Housh will be drawing even more double teams than normal. Housh still leads the NFL in receptions so if he finds the end zone he could have a reasonable game but not a game like last week.
In Pittsburgh Willie Parker appears to be healthy and is a must start this week against the Bengals. They allow 131 yards on the ground and have yielded 12 rushing TDs. In the air Ben R will try to get back on track against a bad Bengal's pass defense that has given up 14 passing TDs. Hines Ward is a good start and is the main target for the Steeler's. Heath Miller has practiced two days in a row and hopes to play Thursday night but don't expect huge things as he has been mostly quiet this year even when he is healthy.
Houston at Cleveland
Brady Quinn got his first win amidst a pretty poor game. Quinn broke his right index finger on one of the Bills' helmets last Monday but is cleared to play for Sunday. Keep an eye on him though because if he plays he has a good matchup if you're struggling at QB. The Texans have allowed 211 yards per game and have given up a putrid 17 passing TDs. Braylon Edwards still has a case of the dropsies but is still a prime target. Edwards is a #2 or #3 receiver at this point. Kellen Winslow strained his shoulder Monday night but is likely for Thursday night. Keep your eye on him but he should be a good start. On the ground Houston gives up 133 yards per game and have yielded 15 TDs. Jamal Lewis is a good start this week as the Browns will have to protect Quinn's finger.
Cleveland's defense isn't much better than Houston and that means that Rosenfels should have a reasonable game. Schaub is out for up to an additional month and Rosenfels will try to rebound from a horrible game. Sage is not a good start at all and should be on your bench. Andre Johnson is too good to sit but temper your expectations. On the ground Slaton should have a nice game against a Browns defense that allows 149 yards on the ground and have yielded 11 rushing touchdowns.
San Francisco at Dallas
Romo came back last week and performed just well enough to pull a win out thanks to some superior play from their defense. He will still wear his pinkie splint but is improving. After taking a hobo to the movies this week Romo and the Cowboys will try to stay on task by beating the bad 49'ers. The 49'ers are allowing 235 yards in the air and have yielded 15 TDs. Terrell Owens has been off the must start list for a few weeks but I do expect him to find the end zone this week. The Cowboys will likely try to keep it on the ground as much as possible against a San Francisco that allows 107 yards per game and have allowed 10 rushing TDs. Marion Barber should have a good game despite the bad news that Felix Jones will be put on IR with a torn ligament under his big toe. After missing time with a torn hamstring Jones tore a ligament under his big toe while rehabbing the hamstring.
On the 49'ers side of the ball Frank Gore is a must start against a Cowboys team that gives up 106 yards per game and have yielded 8 TDs on the ground. On the passing side of the ball nobody on the 49'ers are must starts. Shaun Hill has been serviceable and Vernon Davis has finally put together a couple decent games but the Cowboys team has a refreshed secondary after getting Terrence Newman back and they are allowing just 188 yards per game but have allowed 13 passing touchdowns.
Tampa Bay at Detroit
Tampa Bay struggles to stay ahead in the wild card standings and should have an easy time of it going against the 0-10 Lions. Detroit has put up a couple close games but Tampa Bay should have a good game this week. Detroit is allowing 172 yards per game on the ground and 231 yards in the air. Earnest Graham and Cadillac Williams are both out for Tampa Bay which makes Warrick Dunn a must pick-up and start. Detroit has given up an impressive 17 rushing touchdowns and Dunn should have a nice game. Garcia is a reasonable start against a Detroit team that has given up 16 passing touchdowns. Antonio Bryant should be in your lineup if possible.
Kevin Smith has quietly put together quite a decent sleeper running back sleeper season but he should be on your bench against a Tampa Bay defense that has only allowed 1 rushing TD all year while allowing 99 yards per game. In the air Tampa Bay's cover 2 defense is allowing 182 yards per game and have yielded 13 TDs. Calvin Johnson is the only person you're starting for the Lions but he is questionable with a quad injury. Keep your eye on him but if he's playing he has to be in your lineup with 5 scores in his last 6 games, he's the Lions' only legitimate option now.
Jets at Tennessee
The tough Jets rush defense could be the end of the Titans' 10-0 run although Collins proved last week that he can still throw the ball with a 230 yard game with 3 scores last week. It's good time for him to be getting into a rhythm against a poor Jets pass defense that is allowing 240 yards per game and have yielded 14 passing TDs. He will likely need to win the game for the Titans since Chris Johnson and LenDale White will have a tough game against the Jets that allow just 81 yards per game and have only allowed 7 rushing TDs. If you drafted Chris Johnson as your number 3 running back treat him like that this week.
Brett Favre has been riding the Thomas Jones engine and will try to continue that ride this week. Tennessee allows 95 yards on the ground and have yielded 10 TDs. While they are a stout run defense their pass defense is more stout, mostly because of the pressure that Hainsworth puts on the QB. The Titans allow just 187 yards in the air and have allowed a stingy, league leading, 5 passing TDs. Favre, Coles, Keller and Cotchery are not great plays if you have better options but if Favre decides to play Vintage Favre a big game should never surprise anybody. Thomas Jones is a #2 or 3 back this week despite being the 4th best fantasy back thus far.
Buffalo Bills at Kansas City
Tyler Thigpen has been the only bright spot in a terrible KC team. He has thrown for an average of 2 TDs a game over the last 4 games making Tony Gonzalez and Dwayne Bowe viable fantasy options. This week he should have a decent chance of expanding his positive play going against the Bills pass defense that allows 202 yards per game but just 7 TDs allowed in the air to date. Larry Johnson got the bulk of the carries last week by default. Larry Johnson is still not a consistent runner and is averaging around 3 yards per carrie.
On the Bills side of the ball most of their players should be in your lineup if possible. Lynch finally looked like he did when he was a rookie last year and has a phenomenal match-up this week against KC that allows 165 yards per game on the ground and have yielded 16 TDs to date. Lynch is a must start. In the air Trent Edwards has played terrible. Edwards has thrown 2 or more interceptions in the last three games and at inopportune times to boot. Edwards needs to be on the bench despite the fact that KC allows 237 yards per game in the air and have allowed 12 TDs. Until Edwards proves that he remembers how to be a professional QB he should be on your bench. Think of Lee Evans as a #3 receiver at best until Edwards gets back on track.
Chicago at St. Louis
Chicago finds itself in a three way tie for 1st at 5-5 and will try to get an easy win against a very bad Rams team. Matt Forte is primed for a huge game against a Rams team that allows 158 yards per game on the ground and have allowed a league worse 18 TDs on the ground. Forte is my start of the week at running back and should be in your lineup regardless of who else you have. Orton looked shaky last week in his first week back and coupled with the fact that Forte is going to demolish the Rams defense I don't like any of the Bears passing game this week.
On the ground Chicago looks a bit like retro Bears defense. They are allowing just 87 yards on the ground per game and have yielded 10 TDs. Steven Jackson is out of the lineup again this Sunday and that makes Antonio Pittman the main guy behind Bulger. You are not starting Pittman against a tough Bears defense. In the air the Bears can be beat. They are allowing 249 yards per game in the air and have allowed 13 TDs. Donnie Avery is the receiver you want to start in St Louis and is the only Ram I would want to start this week on both sides of the ball.
New England at Miami
Always a tough fight Miami will try to steal a win from the Brady-less Patriots. While allowing 104 yards on the ground the Patriots have only allowed 5 rushing touchdowns. Ronnie Brown could be a good start but I expect him to not find the end zone making him a #2 running back. In the air the Patriots are susceptible allowing 204 yards per game and have yielded 16 passing touchdowns. Unfortunately Pennington hasn't been playing consistently well and Ted Ginn Jr is too inconsistent to be a must start. They are deeper plays if you're having injury problems.
On the Patriots side of the ball Cassel is coming off of a huge game where he passed for over 400 yards and rushed for 60. Cassel and the Patriots should continue their air exploits going against a Dolphin's team that allows 223 yards in the air and have given up 12 TDs especially since Miami's rush defense is stout at 91 yards per game allowed and just 5 rushing touchdowns allowed all year. Randy Moss, Wes Welker and Matt Cassel should probably be in your lineup this week.
Minnesota at Jacksonville
Adrian Peterson had an off week last week and will look to get back on track against the mediocre rush defense of the Jaguars. The Jags allow 113 yards per game and have allowed 7 rushing touchdowns. As if you needed to hear it from here but Adrian Peterson should be in your lineup! Frerotte is looking more like what we expected him to look like over the last few weeks and should not be in your lineup along with all the other Vikings' pass game. Jacksonville is allowing 215 yards per game in the air and have given up 18 passing touchdowns. Sidney Rice and Visanthe Shiancoe are the only two people in the Vikings' pass game that I would want to start.
The is trying hard to hold on to some sort of playoff hope but they are looking up at Indianapolis and Tennessee. If you're expecting any production from any Jaguar it is probably Garrard. The Vikings are allowing 223 yards per game and have given up 8 passing touchdowns. MJD and crew will find it difficult to get started against a Minnesota team that allows just 74 yards per game on the ground. MJD is finding the end zone and has periodic flashes of great talent but could still lay an egg at any time.
Philadelphia at Baltimore
The Eagle's had a horribly disappointing week against a bad Bengal's team last week and will find it difficult to right the ship this week against the always physical and tough Ravens defense. The ravens are allowing just 80 rushing yards per game and have given up a stingy 3 rushing TDs. Brian Westbrook is obviously not 100% and has gone three games without finding the end zone. Westbrook is not a must start until he shows that he is healthy and this week does not look good for that to be the week. In the air Baltimore is a little more susceptible. They are allowing 188 yards per game and have given up 12 passing touchdowns. McNabb and DeSean Jackson will try to get back on track this week but with the Raven's 20 sacks and 15 INTs they will have a rough time at it.
The Ravens are the new winners of the running back heart breakers. If you start whoever had the big game the previous week for the Ravens you will be wrong the next week. It looks like McGahee is the man again but as soon as you get comfortable with that Ray Rice will have 100 yards and a score! The Eagle's rush defense is allowing 98 yards per game and have allowed just 5 rushing TDs. This makes me nervous to start McGahee but he is the back you want to start if you have to start a Ravens back. In the air Philadelphia is allowing 194 yards per game and have given up 13 passing TDs. Flacco has proven he can do more than just "manage" a game but he should be on your bench along with the rest of the Raven's passing game.
Oakland at Denver
Oakland will have a supposed healthy McFadden back this week against a bad Denver defense. Denver is allowing 143 yards on the ground and have given up 13 rushing TDs. McFadden and Fargas have little value despite the good match-up as they will both be getting snaps. In the air the Bronco's have been Terrible. They are allowing 244 yards per game and have allowed 14 TDs. They have just 4 interceptions and get virtually no big plays. That being said Russell and the rest of the Oakland passing team still has little to no value and should not be in your lineup.
Cutler has been slowly returning to form and has should have a decent game. Oakland's pass defense is surprisingly better than you would think. They are allowing 195 yards per game and have allowed 12 passing touchdowns. On the ground it is a different story. Oakland is allowing 165 yards per game on the ground and have given up 15 touchdowns. Unfortunately you don't want to start any Denver backs (see the Baltimore analysis!)
Carolina at Atlanta
Carolina is having a good year and will try to continue their winning season with a win against the quick and surprising turn around Atlanta Falcons. Delhomme has been a huge disappointment this year and will continue to struggle as the Panther's will stay on the ground with the two headed monster known as DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart. Atlanta is allowing 226 yards per game and have yielded 13 passing touchdowns but I don't trust Delhomme until he shows me he can play the position again. On the ground Atlanta allows 120 yards per game and have given up 11 passing touchdowns. DeAngelo Williams is still the guy you want in Carolina but Stewart has some value as a low #2 or flex running back.
Matt Ryan is having a phenomenal rookie year but will likely struggle this week against a tough Panther's pass defense. Carolina is allowing just 185 yards per game and have only given up 8 passing touchdowns. Roddy White has earned a spot in most people's lineups. Turner is another big play guy this year that has to be in your lineup. Carolina are allowing 108 yards per game but have given up a stingy 5 rushing touchdowns.
New York Giants at Arizona
This is somewhat of a test game for Arizona and Warner will have his work cut out for him. The Giants are allowing just 175 yards per game and have allowed 12 passing touchdowns on the year. They have 31 sacks and know how to get pressure on the QB. Warner broke his streak of consecutive games with 2 more TD passes and will look to start up a new streak. He has been nothing short of amazing and if the Arizona offensive line can give him time he is still one of the most potent and dangerous passers in the league. Boldin and Fitzgerald are obviously both still in your lineup. Tim Hightower and whoever else runs with him will also have a tough game against the Giants that allow just 91 yards per game and have allowed just 4 TDs on the ground. I am sitting Hightower if I have any other options.
From the Giants side of the ball you need to keep a watchful eye on Brandon Jacobs as he is questionable this week. If he practices Friday he will likely play Sunday. The Giants have been relying on the run this year and will have a tougher time this week. Arizona is allowing just 90 yards per game and have allowed 7 rushing TDs. Arizona is allowing 210 yards in the air but have racked up 23 sacks while giving up 19 passing TDs. If Arizona gets to Manning it could be a long game for the Giants.
Washington at Seattle
Clinton Portis missed practice on Wednesday but did the same last week against the Cowboys and still started. Portis has been the heart and soul of the Redskins offense and they will want him in if at all possible. Seattle is allowing 116 yards per game on the ground and have given up 9 TDs so if Portis can play you want him in your lineup. In the air Jason Campbell has struggled recently and will try to get back on track against the terribad Seahawks pass defense. Seattle is allowing 265 yards per game in the air and have allowed 15 passing touchdowns. Santana Moss and Cooley are the only two people I'm starting from the Redskins passing game this Sunday.
On the Seattle side of the ball they will have a tough go at it. Washington is allowing just 84 yards on the ground and 192 yards per game in the air with 7 and 10 TDs respectively. Hasselbeck's first game was tough, as expected, and shouldn't be used in week 12 unless you have to. Nobody on the Seahawks are must starts this week but Engram and Carlson have the best chances of doing something positive.
Indianapolis at San Diego
You want Peyton Manning and Reggie Wayne to start clicking? Well this is your week. San Diego owns the worst pass defense in the league allowing 267 yards per game and have given up 17 passing touchdowns while only having 6 interceptions. Wayne is a must start and Harrison could be a decent deeper start this week if you have injury problems. On the ground San Diego is allowing just 105 yards per game and have allowed 6 touchdowns. Addai showed last week while he's still a premier back and as long as he's healthy should probably be in your lineup.
The Colts rush defense is bad. They allow 149 yards per game and have allowed 15 rushing TDs. LT showed a flash of his old self last week and should have a nice game this week. LT and Antonio Gates are you only two must starts this week. Indianapolis is allowing just 189 yards per game and have allowed just 2 passing TDs thus far. Rivers had a horrible game last week and will likely struggle again this week.
Green Bay at New Orleans
Green Bay is playing for first place and will try to stick to the Saints. The Saints are a mediocre to bad defense allowing 111 yards on the ground and 235 yards in the air. Aaron Rodgers should be in your lineup this week as well as Greg Jennings. Driver is a strong #3 receiver this week. Ryan Grant has finally looked like the running back that took the NFL by storm last week. He looks healthy and assuming he plays should be in your lineup.
The Saints are fighting for relevancy and a lot of it will come down to Bushes status. Bush is still questionable so keep your eye on him. If he can go you have to start him against a bad Green Bay rush defense. Green Bay is allowing 147 yards on the ground and have given up 9 rushing TDs. In the Air Green Bay is strong and are allowing just 176 yards per game and have allowed 11 passing touchdowns. Drew Brees has been one of the better QBs in the league but may struggle this week after a mediocre week last week.
Cincinnati will have their work cut out for them against the #1 defense in the league. Pittsburgh is allowing just 69 yards per game on the ground and have yielded just 4 rushing TDs this year. The Bengal's still don't have a premier running back and you likely wouldn't have any of their running backs in your lineup anyway but if you had them in your lineup sit them this week. Fitzpatrick has been playing a little better and the Bengal's had a good game in the air last week but don't expect much against a stout Steeler's pass defense that is allowing just 169 yards per game and have given up 9 passing TDs all year. Houshmandzedah is the only person you're starting on the Bengals and temper your expectations for him as well. Chad Ocho-Cinco has been deactivated for this weeks game for breaking a rule(s) of the team. This means that Housh will be drawing even more double teams than normal. Housh still leads the NFL in receptions so if he finds the end zone he could have a reasonable game but not a game like last week.
In Pittsburgh Willie Parker appears to be healthy and is a must start this week against the Bengals. They allow 131 yards on the ground and have yielded 12 rushing TDs. In the air Ben R will try to get back on track against a bad Bengal's pass defense that has given up 14 passing TDs. Hines Ward is a good start and is the main target for the Steeler's. Heath Miller has practiced two days in a row and hopes to play Thursday night but don't expect huge things as he has been mostly quiet this year even when he is healthy.
Houston at Cleveland
Brady Quinn got his first win amidst a pretty poor game. Quinn broke his right index finger on one of the Bills' helmets last Monday but is cleared to play for Sunday. Keep an eye on him though because if he plays he has a good matchup if you're struggling at QB. The Texans have allowed 211 yards per game and have given up a putrid 17 passing TDs. Braylon Edwards still has a case of the dropsies but is still a prime target. Edwards is a #2 or #3 receiver at this point. Kellen Winslow strained his shoulder Monday night but is likely for Thursday night. Keep your eye on him but he should be a good start. On the ground Houston gives up 133 yards per game and have yielded 15 TDs. Jamal Lewis is a good start this week as the Browns will have to protect Quinn's finger.
Cleveland's defense isn't much better than Houston and that means that Rosenfels should have a reasonable game. Schaub is out for up to an additional month and Rosenfels will try to rebound from a horrible game. Sage is not a good start at all and should be on your bench. Andre Johnson is too good to sit but temper your expectations. On the ground Slaton should have a nice game against a Browns defense that allows 149 yards on the ground and have yielded 11 rushing touchdowns.
San Francisco at Dallas
Romo came back last week and performed just well enough to pull a win out thanks to some superior play from their defense. He will still wear his pinkie splint but is improving. After taking a hobo to the movies this week Romo and the Cowboys will try to stay on task by beating the bad 49'ers. The 49'ers are allowing 235 yards in the air and have yielded 15 TDs. Terrell Owens has been off the must start list for a few weeks but I do expect him to find the end zone this week. The Cowboys will likely try to keep it on the ground as much as possible against a San Francisco that allows 107 yards per game and have allowed 10 rushing TDs. Marion Barber should have a good game despite the bad news that Felix Jones will be put on IR with a torn ligament under his big toe. After missing time with a torn hamstring Jones tore a ligament under his big toe while rehabbing the hamstring.
On the 49'ers side of the ball Frank Gore is a must start against a Cowboys team that gives up 106 yards per game and have yielded 8 TDs on the ground. On the passing side of the ball nobody on the 49'ers are must starts. Shaun Hill has been serviceable and Vernon Davis has finally put together a couple decent games but the Cowboys team has a refreshed secondary after getting Terrence Newman back and they are allowing just 188 yards per game but have allowed 13 passing touchdowns.
Tampa Bay at Detroit
Tampa Bay struggles to stay ahead in the wild card standings and should have an easy time of it going against the 0-10 Lions. Detroit has put up a couple close games but Tampa Bay should have a good game this week. Detroit is allowing 172 yards per game on the ground and 231 yards in the air. Earnest Graham and Cadillac Williams are both out for Tampa Bay which makes Warrick Dunn a must pick-up and start. Detroit has given up an impressive 17 rushing touchdowns and Dunn should have a nice game. Garcia is a reasonable start against a Detroit team that has given up 16 passing touchdowns. Antonio Bryant should be in your lineup if possible.
Kevin Smith has quietly put together quite a decent sleeper running back sleeper season but he should be on your bench against a Tampa Bay defense that has only allowed 1 rushing TD all year while allowing 99 yards per game. In the air Tampa Bay's cover 2 defense is allowing 182 yards per game and have yielded 13 TDs. Calvin Johnson is the only person you're starting for the Lions but he is questionable with a quad injury. Keep your eye on him but if he's playing he has to be in your lineup with 5 scores in his last 6 games, he's the Lions' only legitimate option now.
Jets at Tennessee
The tough Jets rush defense could be the end of the Titans' 10-0 run although Collins proved last week that he can still throw the ball with a 230 yard game with 3 scores last week. It's good time for him to be getting into a rhythm against a poor Jets pass defense that is allowing 240 yards per game and have yielded 14 passing TDs. He will likely need to win the game for the Titans since Chris Johnson and LenDale White will have a tough game against the Jets that allow just 81 yards per game and have only allowed 7 rushing TDs. If you drafted Chris Johnson as your number 3 running back treat him like that this week.
Brett Favre has been riding the Thomas Jones engine and will try to continue that ride this week. Tennessee allows 95 yards on the ground and have yielded 10 TDs. While they are a stout run defense their pass defense is more stout, mostly because of the pressure that Hainsworth puts on the QB. The Titans allow just 187 yards in the air and have allowed a stingy, league leading, 5 passing TDs. Favre, Coles, Keller and Cotchery are not great plays if you have better options but if Favre decides to play Vintage Favre a big game should never surprise anybody. Thomas Jones is a #2 or 3 back this week despite being the 4th best fantasy back thus far.
Buffalo Bills at Kansas City
Tyler Thigpen has been the only bright spot in a terrible KC team. He has thrown for an average of 2 TDs a game over the last 4 games making Tony Gonzalez and Dwayne Bowe viable fantasy options. This week he should have a decent chance of expanding his positive play going against the Bills pass defense that allows 202 yards per game but just 7 TDs allowed in the air to date. Larry Johnson got the bulk of the carries last week by default. Larry Johnson is still not a consistent runner and is averaging around 3 yards per carrie.
On the Bills side of the ball most of their players should be in your lineup if possible. Lynch finally looked like he did when he was a rookie last year and has a phenomenal match-up this week against KC that allows 165 yards per game on the ground and have yielded 16 TDs to date. Lynch is a must start. In the air Trent Edwards has played terrible. Edwards has thrown 2 or more interceptions in the last three games and at inopportune times to boot. Edwards needs to be on the bench despite the fact that KC allows 237 yards per game in the air and have allowed 12 TDs. Until Edwards proves that he remembers how to be a professional QB he should be on your bench. Think of Lee Evans as a #3 receiver at best until Edwards gets back on track.
Chicago at St. Louis
Chicago finds itself in a three way tie for 1st at 5-5 and will try to get an easy win against a very bad Rams team. Matt Forte is primed for a huge game against a Rams team that allows 158 yards per game on the ground and have allowed a league worse 18 TDs on the ground. Forte is my start of the week at running back and should be in your lineup regardless of who else you have. Orton looked shaky last week in his first week back and coupled with the fact that Forte is going to demolish the Rams defense I don't like any of the Bears passing game this week.
On the ground Chicago looks a bit like retro Bears defense. They are allowing just 87 yards on the ground per game and have yielded 10 TDs. Steven Jackson is out of the lineup again this Sunday and that makes Antonio Pittman the main guy behind Bulger. You are not starting Pittman against a tough Bears defense. In the air the Bears can be beat. They are allowing 249 yards per game in the air and have allowed 13 TDs. Donnie Avery is the receiver you want to start in St Louis and is the only Ram I would want to start this week on both sides of the ball.
New England at Miami
Always a tough fight Miami will try to steal a win from the Brady-less Patriots. While allowing 104 yards on the ground the Patriots have only allowed 5 rushing touchdowns. Ronnie Brown could be a good start but I expect him to not find the end zone making him a #2 running back. In the air the Patriots are susceptible allowing 204 yards per game and have yielded 16 passing touchdowns. Unfortunately Pennington hasn't been playing consistently well and Ted Ginn Jr is too inconsistent to be a must start. They are deeper plays if you're having injury problems.
On the Patriots side of the ball Cassel is coming off of a huge game where he passed for over 400 yards and rushed for 60. Cassel and the Patriots should continue their air exploits going against a Dolphin's team that allows 223 yards in the air and have given up 12 TDs especially since Miami's rush defense is stout at 91 yards per game allowed and just 5 rushing touchdowns allowed all year. Randy Moss, Wes Welker and Matt Cassel should probably be in your lineup this week.
Minnesota at Jacksonville
Adrian Peterson had an off week last week and will look to get back on track against the mediocre rush defense of the Jaguars. The Jags allow 113 yards per game and have allowed 7 rushing touchdowns. As if you needed to hear it from here but Adrian Peterson should be in your lineup! Frerotte is looking more like what we expected him to look like over the last few weeks and should not be in your lineup along with all the other Vikings' pass game. Jacksonville is allowing 215 yards per game in the air and have given up 18 passing touchdowns. Sidney Rice and Visanthe Shiancoe are the only two people in the Vikings' pass game that I would want to start.
The is trying hard to hold on to some sort of playoff hope but they are looking up at Indianapolis and Tennessee. If you're expecting any production from any Jaguar it is probably Garrard. The Vikings are allowing 223 yards per game and have given up 8 passing touchdowns. MJD and crew will find it difficult to get started against a Minnesota team that allows just 74 yards per game on the ground. MJD is finding the end zone and has periodic flashes of great talent but could still lay an egg at any time.
Philadelphia at Baltimore
The Eagle's had a horribly disappointing week against a bad Bengal's team last week and will find it difficult to right the ship this week against the always physical and tough Ravens defense. The ravens are allowing just 80 rushing yards per game and have given up a stingy 3 rushing TDs. Brian Westbrook is obviously not 100% and has gone three games without finding the end zone. Westbrook is not a must start until he shows that he is healthy and this week does not look good for that to be the week. In the air Baltimore is a little more susceptible. They are allowing 188 yards per game and have given up 12 passing touchdowns. McNabb and DeSean Jackson will try to get back on track this week but with the Raven's 20 sacks and 15 INTs they will have a rough time at it.
The Ravens are the new winners of the running back heart breakers. If you start whoever had the big game the previous week for the Ravens you will be wrong the next week. It looks like McGahee is the man again but as soon as you get comfortable with that Ray Rice will have 100 yards and a score! The Eagle's rush defense is allowing 98 yards per game and have allowed just 5 rushing TDs. This makes me nervous to start McGahee but he is the back you want to start if you have to start a Ravens back. In the air Philadelphia is allowing 194 yards per game and have given up 13 passing TDs. Flacco has proven he can do more than just "manage" a game but he should be on your bench along with the rest of the Raven's passing game.
Oakland at Denver
Oakland will have a supposed healthy McFadden back this week against a bad Denver defense. Denver is allowing 143 yards on the ground and have given up 13 rushing TDs. McFadden and Fargas have little value despite the good match-up as they will both be getting snaps. In the air the Bronco's have been Terrible. They are allowing 244 yards per game and have allowed 14 TDs. They have just 4 interceptions and get virtually no big plays. That being said Russell and the rest of the Oakland passing team still has little to no value and should not be in your lineup.
Cutler has been slowly returning to form and has should have a decent game. Oakland's pass defense is surprisingly better than you would think. They are allowing 195 yards per game and have allowed 12 passing touchdowns. On the ground it is a different story. Oakland is allowing 165 yards per game on the ground and have given up 15 touchdowns. Unfortunately you don't want to start any Denver backs (see the Baltimore analysis!)
Carolina at Atlanta
Carolina is having a good year and will try to continue their winning season with a win against the quick and surprising turn around Atlanta Falcons. Delhomme has been a huge disappointment this year and will continue to struggle as the Panther's will stay on the ground with the two headed monster known as DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart. Atlanta is allowing 226 yards per game and have yielded 13 passing touchdowns but I don't trust Delhomme until he shows me he can play the position again. On the ground Atlanta allows 120 yards per game and have given up 11 passing touchdowns. DeAngelo Williams is still the guy you want in Carolina but Stewart has some value as a low #2 or flex running back.
Matt Ryan is having a phenomenal rookie year but will likely struggle this week against a tough Panther's pass defense. Carolina is allowing just 185 yards per game and have only given up 8 passing touchdowns. Roddy White has earned a spot in most people's lineups. Turner is another big play guy this year that has to be in your lineup. Carolina are allowing 108 yards per game but have given up a stingy 5 rushing touchdowns.
New York Giants at Arizona
This is somewhat of a test game for Arizona and Warner will have his work cut out for him. The Giants are allowing just 175 yards per game and have allowed 12 passing touchdowns on the year. They have 31 sacks and know how to get pressure on the QB. Warner broke his streak of consecutive games with 2 more TD passes and will look to start up a new streak. He has been nothing short of amazing and if the Arizona offensive line can give him time he is still one of the most potent and dangerous passers in the league. Boldin and Fitzgerald are obviously both still in your lineup. Tim Hightower and whoever else runs with him will also have a tough game against the Giants that allow just 91 yards per game and have allowed just 4 TDs on the ground. I am sitting Hightower if I have any other options.
From the Giants side of the ball you need to keep a watchful eye on Brandon Jacobs as he is questionable this week. If he practices Friday he will likely play Sunday. The Giants have been relying on the run this year and will have a tougher time this week. Arizona is allowing just 90 yards per game and have allowed 7 rushing TDs. Arizona is allowing 210 yards in the air but have racked up 23 sacks while giving up 19 passing TDs. If Arizona gets to Manning it could be a long game for the Giants.
Washington at Seattle
Clinton Portis missed practice on Wednesday but did the same last week against the Cowboys and still started. Portis has been the heart and soul of the Redskins offense and they will want him in if at all possible. Seattle is allowing 116 yards per game on the ground and have given up 9 TDs so if Portis can play you want him in your lineup. In the air Jason Campbell has struggled recently and will try to get back on track against the terribad Seahawks pass defense. Seattle is allowing 265 yards per game in the air and have allowed 15 passing touchdowns. Santana Moss and Cooley are the only two people I'm starting from the Redskins passing game this Sunday.
On the Seattle side of the ball they will have a tough go at it. Washington is allowing just 84 yards on the ground and 192 yards per game in the air with 7 and 10 TDs respectively. Hasselbeck's first game was tough, as expected, and shouldn't be used in week 12 unless you have to. Nobody on the Seahawks are must starts this week but Engram and Carlson have the best chances of doing something positive.
Indianapolis at San Diego
You want Peyton Manning and Reggie Wayne to start clicking? Well this is your week. San Diego owns the worst pass defense in the league allowing 267 yards per game and have given up 17 passing touchdowns while only having 6 interceptions. Wayne is a must start and Harrison could be a decent deeper start this week if you have injury problems. On the ground San Diego is allowing just 105 yards per game and have allowed 6 touchdowns. Addai showed last week while he's still a premier back and as long as he's healthy should probably be in your lineup.
The Colts rush defense is bad. They allow 149 yards per game and have allowed 15 rushing TDs. LT showed a flash of his old self last week and should have a nice game this week. LT and Antonio Gates are you only two must starts this week. Indianapolis is allowing just 189 yards per game and have allowed just 2 passing TDs thus far. Rivers had a horrible game last week and will likely struggle again this week.
Green Bay at New Orleans
Green Bay is playing for first place and will try to stick to the Saints. The Saints are a mediocre to bad defense allowing 111 yards on the ground and 235 yards in the air. Aaron Rodgers should be in your lineup this week as well as Greg Jennings. Driver is a strong #3 receiver this week. Ryan Grant has finally looked like the running back that took the NFL by storm last week. He looks healthy and assuming he plays should be in your lineup.
The Saints are fighting for relevancy and a lot of it will come down to Bushes status. Bush is still questionable so keep your eye on him. If he can go you have to start him against a bad Green Bay rush defense. Green Bay is allowing 147 yards on the ground and have given up 9 rushing TDs. In the Air Green Bay is strong and are allowing just 176 yards per game and have allowed 11 passing touchdowns. Drew Brees has been one of the better QBs in the league but may struggle this week after a mediocre week last week.
Friday, November 14, 2008
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
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
Thursday, November 13, 2008
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.
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.
Friday, November 7, 2008
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
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
Thursday, November 6, 2008
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.
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.
Sunday, November 2, 2008
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
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
Thursday, October 30, 2008
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.
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.
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