1. Tom Brady (NE) – We realize he only threw for 380 yards and 1 TD last week. Despite the off week, we think you are probably safe with him in your starting line up in week 13.
2. Derek Anderson (CLE) – If Trent Dilfer can do some serious damage against the Arizona pass defense, Derek Anderson should be able to annihilate them. Anderson could have a monster week 13. Start him with confidence.
3. Ben Roethlisberger (PIT) – He should rebound nicely this week after a poor outing in the Slop Bowl last week. Roethlisberger will match up against a pathetic Bengals pass defense that ranks 26th. In week 8, he threw for 231 yards and 2 TD’s against them. Expect similar numbers or better this time around.
4. Kurt Warner (ARI) – He is coming off a huge performance last week, in more ways than one. Warner threw for a career high 484 yards and added 2 TD’s. He also threw a pair of interceptions and had a couple of key fumbles, including 1 that ultimately cost Arizona the win. While we do not expect him to throw for 484 yards this week, he should surpass the 300 mark against Cleveland’s 30th ranked pass defense. He should also have little trouble finding pay dirt as the Browns have given up a league leading 25 passing TD’s this season. Unfortunately, interceptions and fumbles are also highly probable, but the positives should drastically outweigh anything negative he will do. Warner is a must start.
5. Matt Hasselbeck (SEA) – He has been battling a sore hip much of the week in practice, but he should be good to go this week against the Eagles. While the Philadelphia defense is fairly solid as a whole, they do have trouble stopping the pass, and only rank 22nd in that category. Hasselbeck is playing well, and should make for a solid start in week 13. (Check injury report: hip)
6. Carson Palmer (CIN) – He has a tough match up ahead of him this week against Pittsburgh’s top ranked pass defense, but Palmer seems to always have success against them. In their last 2 meeting Palmer has been very efficient, throwing 3 TD’s and no interceptions. Do not expect a monster game, but he should be solid.
7. Peyton Manning (IND) – After a poor stretch of games, Manning was able to bounce back nicely on Thanksgiving. This week will not be so easy. While a match up against Jacksonville’s 28th ranked pass defense looks great on paper, Manning always seems to struggle against the Jags. While you really can not afford to bench him any week, do not expect a monster game from him in week 13.
8. Drew Brees (NO) – After a pair of average performances, Brees bounced back with a huge week 12. This week he will face a very good Tampa Bay pass defense that ranks 5th. The Bucs should present a challenge, but Brees has a solid string of successful games against them. In a week 2 meeting, Brees threw for 260 yards, 1 TD and 1 interception, but it was on the road, and he was in a slump at the time. He should do better this time around.
9. Jon Kitna (DET) – Kitna has struggled somewhat in recent weeks, and was pretty average in a week 2 meeting with the Vikings, but the match up in week 13 is still too good to pass up. Minnesota has the worst pass defense in the NFL, and Kitna throws the ball as much as any QB in the league. The opportunity is there if he doesn’t screw it up with interceptions and sacks. The match up screams start him, but you never know with Kitna.
10. Jason Campbell (WAS) – In his last 3 games; Campbell has thrown 6 TD passes. He has also thrown for over 300 yards in 2 of the 3. This week he will square off against Buffalo’s 29th ranked pass defense at home. While Campbell is not always the most reliable fantasy QB, we like his chances for a nice game.
11. Matt Schaub (HOU) – Since the return of Andre Johnson, Schaub has had 2 of his best fantasy performances of the season. He will be in for a tough match up against Tennessee, especially if DT Albert Haynesworth is back. If Schaub can successfully avoid the pass rush, he should have a good game. He is high risk-high reward option for week 13.
12. David Garrard (JAC) – No one can accuse Garrard of being a flashy fantasy QB, but he is efficient and consistent. While the 2nd ranked Colts pass defense could pose a challenge this week, Garrard’s recent performances bode well for his ability to get the job done.
13. Jay Cutler (DEN) – He is not the best guy to have in your starting line up this week, but you could do much worse. Cutler will face a very tough Raiders secondary this week. The good news is that Cutler continues to improve, and has posted 2 solid outings in a row. The Broncos will likely run the ball a lot against Oakland, so do not expect much more than an average performance.
14. A.J. Feeley (PHI) – It is still unclear if Donovan McNabb will be the starter this week, but as of right now, it appears Feeley will get the nod. Feeley was very impressive last week, and that is an understatement considering he was facing New England. He threw for 345 yards and 3 TD’s, and almost lead the Eagles to a colossal upset. The bad news is that he also threw 3 interceptions, including 1 that closed the door on the Eagles hopes of winning. Feeley has proven that he is capable of a big game, but it is difficult to start a guy in fantasy based on 1 performance. Check on McNabb’s status before placing Feeley on your starting roster against Seattle.
15. Phillip Rivers (SD) – He doesn’t exactly make for a golden start this week, but he is coming off a monster week 12, and his fantasy output seems to come in mini streaks, both good and bad. Rivers will face a pretty solid Chiefs pass defense this week, and he did not fare all that well in their last meeting. Rivers has been far too unreliable to consider a strong start this week, but if you believe in the mini streak theory, we say go for it.
16. Vince Young (TEN) – While this week’s match up looks promising for Young, it is hard to consider him for a starting spot when he has thrown 7 interceptions and only 2 TD’s in his last 4 games. He could easily have a huge game, but is he worth the risk? We doubt it.
17. Eli Manning (NYG) – He was able to throw 4 TD’s last week, unfortunately, 3 of them went to the opposing defense. In what looked to be dream match up in week 12 against the worst pass defense in the NFL, Manning choked big time. He has not had what can be considered a great performance since week 1. The match up against Chicago’s 25th ranked pass defense looks promising, but then again, so did last week’s match up. Manning is way too shaky right now to consider a solid start. If you have the luxury, look elsewhere until he breaks out of this slump.
18. Damon Huard (KC) – It appears as though Brodie Croyle will be out this week with a back injury. If that is the case, Huard will return to the starting role. While Huard is not highly recommended for a week 13 start, he did throw for 284 yards and 2 TD’s against San Diego in an earlier meeting. He will probably not repeat such a performance against them this time around, but there is precedent for it, and he is at home.
19. Gus Frerotte (STL) – Having Gus Frerotte as your starting fantasy QB in week 13 is not ideal, and if that is the case, you are probably in a tight spot. On a positive note, Frerotte did have a big performance in week 5 filling in for Bulger, and he does have a nice arsenal of weapons to work with. A match up against Atlanta sounds appealing as well, until you realize that the Falcons have the 8th best pass defense in the NFL. With Frerotte’s tendancy to throw more interceptions than TD’s, he is not a safe start, but he will likely have quite a few yards and a TD or 2 is not out of the question.
20. Joey Harrington (ATL) – He has shown the ability to have a pretty good game, but for the most part, he has played well below average. Harrington will face an underrated Rams secondary this week that could give him trouble. He is probably capable of an average game at best, so he is not highly recommended.
21. Rex Grossman (CHI)
22. Trent Dilfer (SF)
23. Trent Edwards (BUF)
24. Vinny Testaverde (CAR)
25. Daunte Culpepper (OAK) – Check injury report: quadricep
26. Kyle Boller (BAL)
27. Kellen Clemens (NYJ)
28. John Beck (MIA)
29. Tarvaris Jackson (MIN)
30. Luke McCown (TB)
* Tony Romo and Brett Favre are not included in this week’s rankings. Thursday night game participants are listed separately each Wednesday.
Friday
WEEK 13 QB RANKINGS
WEEK 13 RB RANKINGS
1. LaDainian Tomlinson (SD) - He is not producing his typical stud numbers on a weekly basis, but he has still produced on a very respectable level on a consistent basis this season. Tomlinson will face division rival Kansas City this week. In a week 4 match up with the Chiefs, he ran for 132 yards and a TD. He also had 5 catches for 22 yards. Tomlinson, as always, is a must start.
2. Brian Westbrook (PHI) – He is coming off of a very solid week considering he played the Patriots. Westbrook is still one of the best fantasy backs around, and remains a must start against any opponent. If he is not successful on the ground, he will more than make up for it in the passing game, and vice versa. He is a no brainer against Seattle in week 13. (Check injury report: knee)
3. Willie Parker (PIT) – Considering the conditions he was playing in Parker was not half bad last week. This week he faces the Bengals 25th ranked run defense. In a week 8 meeting with the Bengals, Parker ran all over them, and even scored 1 of only 2 rushing TD’s he has on the season. While Parker is not known for his ability to get into the end zone frequently, he always manages to do so against Cincy. In his last 3 games against them, he has 5 TD’s total with at least 1 in each game. The Bengals have improved against the run in recent weeks, but they are far from being great. Parker is a must start.
4. Steven Jackson (STL) – Since returning from injury, Jackson has looked very strong, scoring TD’s in 3 of his last 4 contests. In week 13, he will face an Atlanta run defense that ranks a pathetic 26th, and they are down to mostly second stringers on the defensive line. Jackson should be able to run wild on the Falcons and is a top flight pick for your starting roster.
5. Frank Gore (SF) – The 49ers brought in an offensive specialist last week to help with the play calling. Apparently, it had a very positive effect, especially on Gore, who went off on the Cardinals. It was by far his best performance of the season. Gore will once again have a favorable match up against Carolina this week. If the Niners don’t get behind early and have to turn to the passing game, as they have had to do most of the season, then Gore should get plenty of touches. He is not a lock, but this week looks very promising for Gore. (Check injury report: ankle)
6. Joseph Addai (IND) – While he is considered an elite fantasy RB, keep in mind that he has never been dominant against Jacksonville. In 3 career games against them, he has never scored a TD, although he did average 5.3 yards per carry and rushed for 85 yards against them earlier this season. Addai is capable of running wild on any opponent, but do not expect it against the underrated Jaguar run defense.
7. Jamal Lewis (CLE) – Lewis has been on an impressive roll as of late finding the end zone in each of his last 2 games. He is also averaging 113 yards per game rushing in that span. In addition, He has 6 TD’s in his last 4 contests. This week, Lewis matches up against the Cardinals 15th ranked run defense. On another positive note, Arizona has been horrible in recent games against the run, and was absolutely torched last week by Frank Gore. Lewis should continue his string of solid production in week 13.
8. Clinton Portis (WAS) – Portis has cooled down considerably in recent weeks, but he has faced some pretty tough match ups. This week should get much easier, as he will face the Bills 23rd ranked run defense. He has failed to reach the end zone in 3 straight games now, which is his longest such stretch of the season. Portis will have a good opportunity to get back to pay dirt in week 13. (Check injury report: back)
9. Justin Fargas (OAK) – he played exceptionally well last week against the Chiefs with 139 rushing yards and a TD. This week he will face arch rival Denver. While the Broncos have shown vast improvement in their run D recently, they still rank 29th and they are still pretty bad. Fargas has the tools to run all over them in week 13.
10. Maurice Jones-Drew (JAC) – In 3 career games against Indianapolis spanning back to last season, Jones-Drew has scored 5 TD’s, including 1 in a meeting earlier this season. He has never failed to find pay dirt at least once against them. The Colts rank a very average 16th against the run, and Jones-Drew is capable of finding yardage and the end zone in a multitude of ways. He is a solid start for week 13.
11. Travis Henry (DEN) – It appears that he is healthy and ready to return to action this week, and he could not have picked a better week to return. Henry will face a horrible Raiders run defense that ranks last in the NFL. In an earlier meeting, he rushed for 128 yards against them. Selvin Young may steal some carries, but Henry should get the majority. The match up is too good to leave him on the bench. (Check injury report: knee)
12. Earnest Graham (TB) – He has been a workhorse for the Bucs offense in recent weeks and has a TD in each of his last 3 starts. Graham should once again fill that workhorse role against New Orleans. With starting QB Jeff Garcia likely out this week, Tampa will likely look to Graham early and often. On the downside of that, the Saints, who rank 10th against the run, know that as well. They will likely devote most of their defensive game plan to stopping Graham. He has yet to let fantasy owners down to this point, but it will not be an easy match up under the circumstances.
13. Reggie Bush (NO) – In 3 career games against Tampa Bay, Bush has never rushed for more than 27 yards, but he has caught 21 passes against them. While the Bucs do not boast one of the better run defenses in the league, they do appear to have Bush’s number. Fortunately, Bush is multi-faceted and can acquire fantasy points in many ways. We do not like the match up based on the history there, but Bush has to break out of his funk against them sometime, and he is well overdue for a TD against them. He should be back to 100% after being limited last week with a shin injury. (Check injury report: shin)
14. Thomas Jones (NYJ) – Overall, he has had a pretty disappointing season and is not a guy we typically recommend starting. This week, however, is an exception. Jones will face Miami in week 13. The Dolphins are horrible against the run and rank 30th in the league in that category. In a week 3 meeting with the Fins, Jones rushed for 110 yards. He has a good shot at scoring his 1st TD of the season, so this may be a good week to stick him in your line up.
15. Edgerrin James (ARI) – Despite a TD in week 11, James has been a fairly mediocre RB over the last few weeks. In addition, he no longer receives goal line carries, that duty has been handed over to back up Marcell Shipp. The good news is that he will face the Browns 28th ranked run defense this week. James should be able to get back on track and do some damage on the ground and may not even need a goal line carry to get into the end zone against such a weak opponent, but based on his recent play, don’t get your hopes up too high.
16. Adrian Peterson (MIN) – The good news is that he will likely be back this week. The bad news is that he will likely split carries with Chester Taylor at best. Also, the knee will not be 100%, which could affect his ability to successfully make cuts, which is his bread and butter. On top of that, Peterson only rushed for 66 yards and no TD’s against Detroit in an earlier meeting. While nothing would shock us from Peterson, including a monster game, the odds are not in his favor this week. (Check injury report: knee)
17. Kolby Smith (KC) – He was off the charts last week in his first ever start, granted it was against Oakland’s last place run defense. No matter whom the opponent, 150 yards rushing and 2 TD’s is very impressive. This week he will get a shot at the Chargers 21st ranked run defense. That ranking is a little misleading considering Adrian Peterson’s monster game against them comprises much of that low ranking. San Diego has been feast or famine most of the year against the run, but they have been solid more times than not. While Smith’s only start was very impressive, you shouldn’t get too pumped over 1 game against the league’s worst run D. Week 13 should say much more about what kind of fantasy back Smith is going to be. Depending on your other options, he is probably worth starting, but do not expect anything like last week.
18. Willis McGahee (BAL) – He may not be a yardage machine, but with 6 straight games with a TD, he can be considered a scoring machine at this point. McGahee will look to score in his 7th straight game in week 13, but it will not be easy against the Patriots 5th ranked run defense. Keep expectations on the low end given the match up, and the high probability that Baltimore will be down early and have to turn to the passing game. On a positive note, if the Ravens are going to score, McGahee will likely be the one to do it. (Check injury report: ankle)
19. LenDale White (TEN) – There is no question that White has been flat out awful the last 3 weeks, but much of that is not his fault. In all 3 contests, the Titans were down big early, and had to turn almost exclusively to the passing game. This week the Titans play Houston, and while there is always a chance, Tennessee should not get behind in a big way early on. Also, Houston only ranks 22nd against the run, and looked terrible in that capacity last week against the Browns. In addition, White rushed for 104 yards and a TD against the Texans in an earlier meeting. We expect him to bounce back this week, but it is understandable if you have reservations about starting him given his recent downslide.
20. Derrick Ward (NYG) – Ward will return from injury this week, and likely get the start in place of Brandon Jacobs. He has already proven to be an effective fantasy back, in an earlier stint replacing the injured Jacobs. While Ward has a fairly promising match up against Chicago’s 27th ranked run defense, he may give up some carries to Reuben Droughns, including goal line carries. He definitely has value this week, but how much all depends on his workload. Ward could make for a nice start, but the circumstances make him a bit risky. (Check injury report: ankle and groin)
21. Warrick Dunn (ATL) – He has not done much in the last couple of weeks, but Dunn could get back on track this week with a favorable match up against the Rams 19th ranked run defense. Dunn is not a lock, but he has surprised us before this season, and we like his chances for a decent game.
22. Fred Taylor (JAC) – He is probably not your 1st or even your 2nd choice to have at RB this week, but Taylor has played pretty well over the last 3 weeks, and he is starting to show some value as a fantasy back. He faces a very average Colts run defense this week, and he has had pretty good success against them in the past. Taylor does not come highly recommended this week, but he is capable of doing some damage.
23. DeShaun Foster (CAR) – He has done little to nothing for much of the season, including an embarrassing week 12 in which he had negative yardage on 9 carries. Things should look up this week against the 49ers 24th ranked run defense, but don’t count on it.
24. Adrian Peterson (CHI) – With Cedric Benson out for the rest of the season with injury, Peterson will step into the starting role. While Peterson is not an ideal fantasy back, especially against a tough Giants run defense, he does have some value. Peterson has scored a TD in his last 2 games, and he is a much better receiver out of the backfield than Benson was. He will probably give you a few fantasy points, but do not expect a great deal from him this week.
25. Jesse Chatman (MIA) – He should be good to go this week, but even his coach described him as “a little gimpy”. Chatman has a great match up this week against the Jets 31st ranked run defense. The big questions are how will is ankle react, and will he have to share the load? Chatman will likely be fine, but the underlying circumstances may be enough to keep him on the bench in week 13. If you do plan on starting him, make sure that he will at least start the game. (Check injury report: ankle)
26. Kevin Jones (DET) – There is no question that Jones is a quality RB, but with an offense that tends to lean more towards the passing game, you can never be quite sure what he will get you. Based on this week’s match up against the Vikings top ranked run defense, we do not expect him to get you much.
27. Ron Dayne (HOU) – It appears that he will once again get the start in place of the injured Ahman Green. He will face a Tennessee defense this week that has struggled against the run recently. A big reason they have struggled has been the absence of run stuffing DT Albert Haynesworth. Haynesworth should be back this week and that spells trouble for Dayne and a Houston rush attack that has not been all that good in the first place. He is not a great start for week 13, but a TD is not out of the question if he can get into a goal line situation.
28. Chester Taylor (MIN) – Even if Adrian Peterson returns to his starting role, Taylor should still see some carries, at least for 1 more week. He has done a bang up job filling in for Peterson, and is capable of solid production even in a limited role. Pay close attention to the status of Peterson heading into Sunday before committing to Taylor as your starter.
29. Laurence Maroney (NE) – He has found the end zone for 2 consecutive weeks, but Maroney is still very risky as a starting option for your line up. For starters, he is playing against Baltimore’s 3rd ranked run defense. Secondly, he did not even start the last game, and did not see action until the 3rd quarter. And last he simply does not get enough carries to be a valuable fantasy back.
30. Rudi Johnson (CIN) – He finally produced a solid game for the first time since week 2. While Johnson showed some promise last week, it is hard to expect a similar effort against the Steelers in week 13. He should get the bulk of the carries, but he is a desperation start at best.
31. Fred Jackson (BUF) – It is unlikely any of you have ever heard of him, and if you have, it wasn’t before this week, but he will probably get the start this week against Washington. Seeing as how we have never seen him play it is difficult to judge his fantasy value, but he should get the bulk of the carries this week, and that alone gives him some value. You will have to be pretty desperate to have him in your starting line up, but who knows what he is capable of?
32. Shaun Alexander (SEA) – He has been a full participant in practice throughout the week and is expected to start. However, he will be sharing carries with Maurice Morris. To this point, Alexander has been pretty ineffective, and with a tough match up in week 13 against the Eagles 7th ranked run defense, we would be hard pressed to recommend his use. (Check injury report: knee and wrist)
33. Maurice Morris (SEA) – Morris has done a pretty good job in relief of Shaun Alexander scoring TD’s in 2 of his last 3 games. Alexander will return this week, and while Morris has been promised that he will share the workload, his fantasy value drops considerably. He is a very risky start against a very good Eagles run D in week 13. (Check injury report: ankle)
34. Selvin Young (DEN) – He will return from injury this week, but will likely find himself in the more familiar back up role with the return of Travis Henry. It is unclear what the carry situation will be between the 2, but our best guess is that Henry will get a vast majority of the carries. If something changes before Sunday, Young may be worth the start, but as of now, do not expect much from him despite a great match up. (Check injury report: knee)
35. Reuben Droughns (NYG) – He will likely move back into a reserve role this week with the return of Derrick Ward, but Droughns still has some value as the potential goal line back. He may also see a fair share of the workload overall. With the situation uncertain at this time, Droughns should only be used as an emergency fill in.
* Other potential RB options for week 13 include (in ranked order):
Marcell Shipp (ARI), Kevin Faulk (NE), Chris Brown (TEN), Kenny Watson (CIN), Najeh Davenport (PIT), LaMont Jordan (OAK), Jerious Norwood (ATL), Samkon Gado (MIA), DeAngelo Williams (CAR), Dwayne Wright (BUF), Kenton Keith (IND), Garrett Wolfe (CHI), Aaron Stecker (NO), and Michael Pittman (TB)
* RB’s in Thursday night’s Green Bay @ Dallas game are not included in this week’s rankings. Thursday night game participants are listed separately each Wednesday.
WEEK 13 WR RANKINGS
1. Larry Fitzgerald (ARI) – He has flat out been ripping it up over his last 3 games. In that span, Fitzgerald has accumulated 25 receptions for 323 yards and 5 TD’s. He has his best match up of the season this week against the Browns 30th ranked pass defense. Fitzgerald should terrorize the Cleveland secondary with a monster effort. (Check injury report: groin)
2. Randy Moss (NE) – We realize that he is coming off of his worst game of the season with 5 catches for 43 yards, but even the biggest fantasy studs are entitled to an off game here and there. Expect Moss to get back on track this week against Baltimore.
3. Braylon Edwards (CLE) – He is looking at a very favorable match up this week against a banged up Cardinals secondary which will be without starting CB Eric Green and SS Adrian Wilson. The Arizona pass defense ranks a poor 20th in the NFL even with those guys healthy. In addition, they were hammered last week by a 49er passing attack that ranks last in the NFL. Edwards has been battling a hamstring issue which should warrant some concern, but if there are no setbacks with the hammy, he should have a big game. (Check injury report: hamstring)
4. Reggie Wayne (IND) – He will be in for a tough match up against top flight CB RaShean Mathis this week when his Colts take on the Jaguars, but Wayne has posted 2 consecutive 100 yard efforts against Jacksonville. He should once again be the go to guy in the Colts passing game with Marvin Harrison expected to miss yet another game. Wayne will have his hands full in week 13, but he is talented enough to overcome any match up. He is a must start.
5. Marques Colston (NO) – He has played lights out in his last 5 games with 41 receptions for 584 yards and 4 TD’s. This week he will face a tough Tampa secondary, but in Colston’s last 2 games against them, including 1 earlier this season; he has accumulated a sparkling 19 receptions for 193 yards and 2 TD’s. He is no lock against Ronde Barber and the Bucs 5th ranked pass defense, but his track record should speak for itself.
6. T.J. Houshmandzadeh (CIN) – He has failed to find the end zone in 2 out of his last 3 games, but he is still producing solid numbers, and with 11 TD’s on the season; Houshmandzadeh is still a threat to find pay dirt any week. The reemergence of Chad Johnson last week and the return of Chris Henry cut into his production a bit, but he is still the big weapon in the Bengals passing attack, and there is plenty to go around for everyone. He has a tough match up against Pittsburgh this week, but he pulled in 7 passes for 81 yards and a TD against them in an earlier meeting this season. (Check injury report: back)
7. Wes Welker (NE) – He may not have found pay dirt last week against the Eagles, but he did everything else to qualify him for stud status with 13 receptions and 149 yards receiving. It is obvious that he is Tom Brady’s safety net when Randy Moss is being doubled. Welker should receive plenty of attention once again when he faces the Ravens in week 13.
8. Andre Johnson (HOU) – After a huge return to the field in week 11, Johnson was a big disappointment in week 12. Johnson is typically a reliable fantasy option, but he has been known to have the occasional bad game throughout his career. The good news is that he rarely posts back to back poor outings, and he has as much potential for a monster game as any top fantasy WR, including T.O. and Randy Moss. He should bounce back against the Titans in week 13. (Check injury report: knee)
9. Anquan Boldin (ARI) – He appears to be regaining some of his swagger after 2 productive fantasy outings in a row. Boldin has a great shot at a huge performance this week when he faces off against Cleveland’s 30th ranked pass defense. The Browns have allowed a ridiculous 25 TD’s through the air this season, so the sky is the limit for Boldin. It should be one of his better efforts of the season.
10. Hines Ward (PIT) –Some of Ward’s fantasy value for week 13 depends on the availability of Santonio Holmes. As of right now, it does not look good for Holmes, which means that Ward will benefit greatly from his absence. Even with Holmes in the line up, Ward is still capable of producing big numbers. He faces a very mediocre Bengals pass defense this week, and he enjoyed his best game of the season against them back in week 8, with 8 catches for 88 yards and 2 TD’s. He is a must start with monster week 13 potential, especially if Holmes is out.
11. Chad Johnson (CIN) – Ocho Cinco was back in week 12, putting on a show to the tune of 12 catches for 103 yards and 3 TD’s against the Titans. It may have just been a fluke, but it is definitely promising for those of you who have been waiting patiently since week 3 for him to breakout. It was just what he needed to jumpstart an otherwise blah fantasy season. This week he faces Pittsburgh’s top ranked pass defense on the road, so those of you expecting a repeat of last week, Don’t! Although last week serves as a positive sign for the rest of his season, do not get your hopes up for another huge performance in week 13. Johnson had 5 catches for 51 yards against the Steelers back in week 8. (Check injury report: knee)
12. Deion Branch (SEA) – You can not always count on Branch to produce big numbers, but with Hackett out this week, his chances go way up. He had a great week 12 hauling in 5 passes for 92 yards and a TD. Hasselbeck loves to spread the ball around to multiple receivers, but Branch will likely be the go to guy this week against Philadelphia. As often as the Seahawks go to the air, Branch along with fellow WR Bobby Engram, should be able to post impressive stats.
13. Roy Williams (DET) – He has top flight potential any given week, but Williams has proven to be fairly unreliable this season. The good news is that he faces Minnesota’s league worst pass defense this week. In an earlier meeting this season, he torched the Viking secondary with 7 receptions for 111 yards and a TD. While this match up is very favorable for Williams, keep in mind that he is not always the go to guy in the Detroit offense these days. That said, we do expect him to bounce back after a poor week 12 performance.
14. Brandon Marshall (DEN) – He continues to build confidence with fantasy owners after 2 great performances in a row. Marshall has been about as consistent a fantasy player as one could ask for this season, and he appears to be getting better. He faces a tough Raiders secondary this week, but he has yet to have a disappointing game all season, including a 5 catch 82 yard performance against Oakland in week 2. On a slightly negative note, the Broncos are expecting Javon Walker to play a bigger role in the offense this week which could cut into Marshall’s production a bit, but that should not be of huge concern at this point.
15. Torry Holt (STL) – He may not be having his typical all star fantasy season, but Holt continues to produce solid numbers on a weekly basis. He has been troubled by a knee injury throughout the season, and with QB Marc Bulger coming in and out of the line up, along with a host of other key injuries in the Rams offense; Holt has really not had the chance to get into his “BIG GAME” zone. Bulger has officially been ruled out to play in week 13. Holt should still produce on a high level, but do not expect the same kind of output that he would have with Bulger. (Check injury report: knee)
16. Joey Galloway (TB) – Since joining Tampa Bay, Galloway has played the Saints 6 times. In those 6 meetings, he has scored at least 1 TD in every game, and has 9 TD’s total. In week 2 of this season, he torched the New Orleans secondary for 135 yards and 2 TD’s. Now for the bad news, it looks as though Galloway will be without QB Jeff Garcia this week which could limit his potential considerably. As of right now, Luke McCown appears to be the likely starter. While Galloway should still be the go to guy and is capable of continued success against the Saints, the QB situation should lower your expectations for him a bit.
17. Calvin Johnson (DET) – Fantasy owners had a lot to be thankful for last Thursday as Johnson pulled in 7 passes for 83 yards and a score. He was targeted early and often, and could have produced much more if not for a couple of penalties, and a pair of dropped passes in the end zone. Johnson has an extremely promising match up this week against the Vikings 32nd ranked pass defense. He has been unreliable as a fantasy starter much of the season, but if Kitna targets him as much as he has in the last few weeks, Johnson could have a beast of a game. He had 4 catches for 61 yards and a TD against Minnesota in week 2. It was only his 2nd NFL game ever.
18. Steve Smith (CAR) – He failed to wow fantasy owners again last week with another very average performance. The good news is that he will get Vinny Testaverde back this week, and he faces the 49ers 24th ranked pass defense. The match up bodes well, and with Testaverde getting him the ball, Steve Smith should look more like Steve Smith this week.
19. Dwayne Bowe (KC) – He has not exactly proven to be Mr. Reliable this season, but for a rookie, Bowe has done exceptionably well for fantasy owners. He will face San Diego’s 23rd ranked pass defense this week. In week 4, Bowe dismantled this secondary posting 8 catches for 164 yards and a TD. You probably should not expect him to equal that this week, as the Chargers will probably key in on him this time around, but he should still produce a solid game.
20. Bobby Engram (SEA) – With D.J. Hackett out this week, Engram will step back into the starting spot, a role he has done well with this season. He will match up against the Eagles 22nd ranked pass defense this week, and should be targeted often in the Seahawks pass heavy offense. He should come through with a nice game.
21. Bernard Berrian (CHI) – With Grossman at QB, Berrian has had a TD catch in 2 out of his last 3 games, and in the 1 game in which he did not score; he had 9 catches for 102 yards. He should be Grossman’s favorite target once again as the Bears take on the Giants in week 13.
22. Plaxico Burress (NYG) – After several pedestrian efforts in a row due to a bad ankle, Burress finally came alive last week. Granted, it was against the NFL’s worst pass defense, but it’s still promising none the less. Unfortunately, Burress can now add a bad knee to his growing list of injuries. While this week’s match up against the Bears holds potential, Burress could be limited once again. Keep an eye on his status leading up to Sunday. (Check injury report: knee and ankle)
23. Roddy White (ATL) – He is not the most reliable guy you can put in your line up as he has shown a great knack for inconsistency. The good news is that White has also shown a knack to put up huge numbers on occasion, even against great pass defenses, as was evident in week 12. He will face a decent Rams pass defense this week, but could have another big performance as Joey Harrington’s go to guy.
24. Chris Henry (CIN) – He had a bit of a let down last week pulling in only 3 catches for 41 yards. It was his weakest fantasy performance since returning to the team in week 10. While Henry remains a big game threat, you must remember that he is still the #3 WR on the depth chart. With a very good Pittsburgh pass defense focusing most of their attention on Houshmandzadeh and Chad Johnson this week, Henry could fly under the radar and turn in a big performance. We like his chances to bounce back with a nice game in week 13.
25. Laveranues Coles (NYJ) – He participated in practice on a limited basis on Wednesday which bodes well for the possibility of him playing this week against Miami. Coles is plenty capable of producing on a very high level when healthy, but considering he will likely not be 100 % this week if he plays; you should lower expectations. Plus, he will face a very good Miami pass defense. Keep a close eye on his status before deciding to start him. (Check injury report: ankle)
26. Santonio Holmes (PIT) – As of right now, it does not appear likely that he will play this week, and even if he does, it could be on a limited basis only. He has a promising match up if he does play, but keep expectations lower than usual with the ankle injury. Keep an eye on his status for any changes, but for now, keep him reserved. Holmes had 6 catches for 87 yards in a week 8 meeting with the Bengals. (Check injury report: ankle)
27. Isaac Bruce (STL) – He has played very well since getting back to full strength after several nagging injuries. Bruce has shown improvement in each game since week 10 and has a TD in 2 of his last 3 games. Atlanta does boast a very good pass defense, but most of their attention will be on Torry Holt, which should free Bruce up for some opportunities, especially in the red zone.
28. Santana Moss (WAS) – After a monster performance in week 11 against Dallas, Moss saw his production drop off quite a bit last week against Tampa. He should be able to rebound nicely with a very favorable match up against the Bills 29th ranked pass defense. Moss is not completely reliable, but he has shown drastic improvement as of late, and this could be a big outing for him. (Check injury report: heel)
29. Chris Chambers (SD) – While his transition from Miami to San Diego has not exactly been a smooth one for fantasy owners, he has shown glimpses of potential, including a week 12 TD. Chambers will face Kansas City’s 9th ranked pass defense this week. It will be a tough match up, but Chambers should get plenty of looks as Phillip River’s 2nd favorite target behind Antonio Gates. He is a risky proposition, and we can’t promise you he will have a big game, but it is not out of the question.
30. Derrick Mason (BAL) – Mason is not a TD machine by any means, but he is a steady performer that almost guarantees a fair amount of production on a weekly basis. He has a tough match up this week against Asante Samuel and the Patriots 6th ranked pass defense, but if Greg Lewis can score twice on them, Mason should at least be able to do some damage.
31. Donte’ Stallworth (NE) – Despite the fact that Stallworth has produced 4 mediocre games in a row, he remains a dangerous threat as a fantasy WR. It is only a matter of time before he has that breakout game. The question is when? We realize that patience can quickly wear thin in fantasy football, and there is really no reason to continuously start a guy who puts up sub par numbers more times than not, but there will come a week when you will kick yourself in the butt for not starting him.
32. Lee Evans (BUF) – After a huge resurgence in weeks 8 and 9, Evans has posted 3 poor outings in a row. In his defense, all 3 of those games were very tough match ups for him, and J.P. Losman was at QB. Evans has not done well with Losman under center. On a positive note, he will get Trent Edwards back at QB this week. Evans seems to have much better chemistry with Edwards, and he turned in his best fantasy performances while Edwards was taking the snaps. The prospects of him turning things around again at Washington this week look promising, but there are no guarantees.
33. Jerricho Cotchery (NYJ) – He will look to get on track this week after 2 poor performances in a row. Cotchery will face a very good Miami pass defense this week, and he has an issue with his finger which may prove to be troublesome. Cotchery has big game potential, but keep expectations on the light side in week 13. (Check injury report: finger)
34. Shaun McDonald (DET) – He turned in one of his worst performances of the season last week, but he did have 2 or 3 big plays taken away from him because of penalties, including a TD. McDonald always sees plenty of targets, and has become a red zone favorite for Kitna. He should bounce back against the Vikings pass defense which is the worst in the NFL.
35. Javon Walker (DEN) – He did return to action last week, but he only participated in 8 plays due to the poor weather conditions. The Broncos coaching staff plans to utilize him much more this week against Oakland, but it is still unclear how much, and his knee is still not 100%. In a week 2 meeting with Oakland, Walker had 8 catches for 101 yards. When healthy, he is considered a top level fantasy WR, but he must prove that he can produce to be considered amongst the elite. He is capable of producing big numbers as soon as this week, and could make for a nice sneaky start. We suggest giving him 1 more week to prove he is healthy enough to produce before putting him in your starting line up, but if you are desperate for help at WR, he could definitely be worth the risk. (Check injury report: knee)
36. Kevin Walter (HOU) – With the return of Andre Johnson, many fantasy owners expected Walter to fall off the map, but that has not exactly been the case. In week 12, he hauled in 6 passes for 65 yards and a TD, proving that he still has value. He will face a struggling Tennessee defense this week that he torched for 97 yards and a TD back in week 7. While Walter has proven that he can be an effective fantasy receiver even with Andre Johnson in the line up, he is still the #2 guy, so do not expect big numbers on a consistent basis.
37. Justin Gage (TEN) – Over the last 3 weeks, Gage has shown solid consistency as Vince Young’s favorite target. Gage is a little risky this week given the unpredictability of the Titans offense, but he has proven reliable enough to give him a shot in your starting line up. He could have a big game against a mediocre Houston secondary.
38. Reggie Brown (PHI) – No one expected the Eagles passing game to do anything last week against the Patriots, especially with A.J. Feeley taking the snaps, but they shocked the world, and almost pulled off the huge upset. A big reason for the Eagles success was the play of Reggie Brown who scored a go ahead TD late in the 3rd quarter. Brown has not had a spectacular season to this point, but he has had some nice games. He could make for a decent #3 starter in your roster this week against Seattle, but do not expect anything major from him.
39. Anthony Gonzalez (IND) – He finally had a game worth writing home about last week as he brought in 6 passes and surpassed the 100 yard receiving mark for the first time this season. Now that Gonzalez is in the starting line up and finally has Peyton Manning’s attention and trust, he could do some real damage. With all eyes on Reggie Wayne, Gonzalez could fly under the radar and post a repeat performance, or better, against Jacksonville’s 28th ranked pass defense. While the potential is there, do not get your hopes up too high. It was only 1 game, and he has done little otherwise this season with plenty of opportunities. Gonzalez is still risky, but he earned a shot as a #3 starter.
40. Kevin Curtis (PHI) – After a week 3 performance that was off the charts, many fantasy owners anticipated a big year for Curtis, but with the exception of a solid week 6 performance, he has been below par most of the season. It has been 6 weeks since he has found the end zone. Curtis remains the deep threat in this offense and it is only a matter of time before he has another breakout game. Unfortunately, it is a guessing game as to when it will happen. He has the potential to do some damage this week against Seattle, but we would not count on it if we were you.
41. Joe Jurevicius (CLE) – Jurevicius is unlikely to give you stud production any week, but he is almost certain to produce on a fair level at minimum. He is targeted often and the match up against Arizona bodes well for him.
42. Ted Ginn (MIA) – Unfortunately, Ginn is playing in a bad offense with a rookie signal caller, but on a positive note, he has become the top target in that offense. He also provides value as a return man. Ginn has a ton of upside and a lot of potential, which could be unleashed any week, but you probably won’t see anything huge from him until next season.
43. Brandon Stokley (DEN) – In week 2, Stokley had 3 catches for 43 yards and a TD against the Raiders. That is probably about as much as you can hope for this time around against Oakland, but TD’s are hard to come by. Stokley will also likely see his production reduce slightly with the return of Javon Walker. He has had a decent season, but you can not expect a lot from this point on.
44. Ronald Curry (OAK) – He has shown the potential for a big game any given week, but for the most part, Curry has been pretty average. He will face a tough Denver secondary this week that held him to just 2 catches for 12 yards back in week2. Keep expectations on the low end.
45. Arnaz Battle (SF) – Battle has put together a nice string of games in recent weeks. While he is probably not going to put up monster numbers any week, he has been consistent enough for you to consider starting him this week against Carolina.
46. Dennis Northcutt (JAC) – He is probably not going to get you big numbers, but he is the most targeted WR in the Jaguar arsenal, and that alone gives him some fantasy value. Keep expectations low if you start him against Indy, but a TD is not out of the question.
47. Reggie Williams (JAC) – He is not targeted often, but he has made the most of his opportunities in recent games, scoring a TD in 3 of his last 4 games. Williams has only 22 receptions on the season, but 6 of them have gone for TD’s. It is a bit of a stretch to think that he will get in the end zone again this week, but it is a possibility. He makes for a decent start if you are in desperate mode, but he may let you down.
48. Keenan McCardell (WAS) – He is definitely a gamble, but McCardell has posted 3 decent stat lines in a row. He could make for a nice sneaky start against a poor Buffalo secondary, especially if Randle El is out.
49. Muhsin Muhammad (CHI) – He is not very consistent, and has not done much in recent weeks, but he does have big play ability. While Muhammad is not highly recommended for your line up against the Giants, he is capable.
50. Nate Washington (PIT) – He only has real value if Santonio Holmes is out of the line up again this week. That was the case last week, but weather conditions pretty much shut the Steelers offense down including Washington. If Holmes is out again, Washington could be a sneaky start, but we do not suggest using him unless you are in dire need of a fill in WR.
*Other WR’s for consideration in week 13 include (in ranked order):
Drew Bennett (STL)
Amani Toomer (NYG)
Nate Burleson (SEA)
Jabar Gaffney (NE)
Mike Furrey (DET)
Antwaan Randle EL (WAS) – if healthy, check injury report
Greg Lewis (PHI)
Ike Hilliard (TB)
Drew Carter (CAR)
Vincent Jackson (SD)
Roydell Williams (TEN)
Eddie Kennison (KC)
Roscoe Parrish (BUF)
Mark Clayton (BAL)
David Patten (NO)
Darrell Jackson (SF)
Marty Booker (MIA)
Andre Davis (HOU)
Bobby Wade (MIN)
Brandon Jones (TEN)
Josh Reed (BUF)
Bryant Johnson B(ARI)
Sidney Rice (MIN)
Devery Henderson (NO)
Michael Jenkins (ATL)
Lance Moore (NO)
* WR’s in Thursday night’s Green Bay @ Dallas game are not included in this week’s rankings. Thursday night game participants are listed separately each Wednesday.
WEEK 13 TE RANKINGS
* TE’s in Thursday night’s Green Bay @ Dallas game are not included in this week’s rankings. Thursday night game participants are listed separately each Wednesday.
1. Antonio Gates (SD)
2. Kellen Winslow (CLE)
3. Tony Gonzalez (KC)
4. Chris Cooley (WAS)
5. Dallas Clark (IND)
6. Heath Miller (PIT)
7. Jeremy Shockey (NYG)
8. Vernon Davis (SF)
9. Owen Daniels (HOU)
10. Tony Scheffler (DEN)
11. Ben Watson (NE)
12. L.J. Smith (PHI)
13. Greg Olsen (CHI)
14. Desmond Clark (CHI)
15. Chris Baker (NYJ) – Check injury report: back
16. Alge Crumpler (ATL) – Check injury report: foot
17. Bo Scaife (TEN)
18. Eric Johnson (NO)
19. Jeff King (CAR)
20. Leonard Pope (ARI)
21. Quinn Sypniewski (BAL) – if Todd Heap is unable to play
22. Zach Miller (OAK)
23. Marcedes Lewis (JAC)
24. Randy McMichael (STL)
25. Alex Smith (TB)
26. David Martin (MIA)
27. Marcus Pollard (SEA)
28. Daniel Graham (DEN)
29. Visanthe Shiancoe (MIN)
30. Matt Spaeth (PIT)
* Update: Todd Heap (BAL) has participated in practice on a limited basis and could possibly play this week, make sure he will start before putting him in your starting line up this week (Check injury report: thigh/hamstring)
WEEK 13 DEFENSE RANKINGS
* Green Bay and Dallas are not listed in this week’s team defense rankings. Thursday night game participants are listed separately each Wednesday.
1. New England (@BAL)
2. San Diego (@KC)
3. Pittsburgh (CIN)
4. Minnesota (DET)
5. NY Giants (@CHI)
6. Chicago (NYG)
7. Washington (BUF)
8. Tampa Bay (@NO)
9. Jacksonville (@IND)
10. Denver (@OAK)
11. Seattle (@PHI)
12. Miami (NYJ)
13. Indianapolis (JAC)
14. Tennessee (HOU)
15. Detroit (@MIN)
16. Philadelphia (SEA)
17. New Orleans (TB)
18. Kansas City (SD)
19. St. Louis (ATL)
20. Carolina (SF)
21. NY Jets (@MIA)
22. San Francisco (@CAR)
23. Oakland (DEN)
24. Houston (@TEN)
25. Atlanta (@STL)
26. Buffalo (@WAS)
27. Arizona (CLE)
28. Cleveland (ARI)
29. Baltimore (NE)
30. Cincinnati (@PIT)
Tuesday
Week 13 Match-ups (and Times)
Week 13 of the NFL season is here and that can mean only one thing: we're really tired. Nevertheless, we'll continue to create the web's best and most detailed fantasy football rankings to let our thousands of loyal readers know who to sit and who start on their fantasy football team.
Until then, here's a look at all of the Week 13 match-ups and times.
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 29 (WEEK 13)
7:15 PM (CT) | NFLN |
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 2
1 PM (ET) | FOX | |
1 PM (ET) | CBS | |
12 PM (CT) | CBS | |
N.Y. JETS AT | 1 PM (ET) | CBS |
12 PM (CT) | FOX | |
1 PM (ET) | FOX | |
12 PM (CT) | FOX | |
12 PM (CT) | CBS | |
1 PM (ET) | CBS | |
2:05 PM (MT) | CBS | |
1:05 PM (PT) | CBS | |
N.Y. GIANTS AT | 3:15 PM (CT) | FOX |
3:15 PM (CT) | FOX | |
8:15 PM (ET) | NBC |
MONDAY, DECEMBER 3
NEW ENGLAND AT | 8:30 PM (ET) | ESPN |
Friday
WEEK 12 QB RANKINGS
1. Tom Brady (NE) – Do we really even need to write anything at this point? Start him!
2. Matt Hasselbeck (SEA) – If you like quality and consistency in a fantasy QB, then you have to love Matt Hasselbeck. Since the Seahawk offense has converted to a pass heavy attack, he has been one of the league’s better fantasy options at the QB position. He matches up against division rival St. Louis in week 12, a match up that bodes very well for him. Expect another strong effort and have him in your starting line up on Sunday.
3. Derek Anderson (CLE) – He is coming off of his worst fantasy effort of the season since taking over the starting job, and it still was not bad. Anderson has a favorable match up in week 12 against a very average Texans pass defense. The tempo of this game should be one that favors Anderson’s style, and we expect a very big fantasy effort from him. He is a must start.
4. Carson Palmer (CIN) – He has thrown for a ton of yards in recent weeks, but unfortunately, he has also thrown a ton of interceptions. In his attempt to keep the high octane Bengals passing attack afloat, he may be trying too hard, forcing throws, and hence the interceptions. With the addition of Chris Henry, he has plenty of weapons in his arsenal, but his O-Line is pretty banged up, and he has little time to make decisions. Palmer should have a big game against Tennessee this week, but he must cut down on the picks.
5. Matt Schaub (HOU) – With Andre Johnson back in the fold for Houston, Schaub is a very dangerous QB. Last week against New Orleans, he threw for 293 yards, 2 TD’s, and no interceptions. Schaub is typically efficient, but if the match up is right, he can be a monster. The match up against the Browns is right. Cleveland’s secondary is horrible, and with the likelihood that this game will be a shoot out, he stands to post big numbers. Start him with confidence.
6. Drew Brees (NO) – After he appeared to have this offense on a steady pace back to the top, Brees has had mixed results in his last 2 contests. He faces Carolina this week which ranks a respectable 12th against the pass. In an earlier meeting against them, Brees completed 29 passes for 252 yards, but he also threw 2 interceptions and no TD’s. Based on the mixed results he has produced lately, it is difficult to anticipate what he will do this week. He has proven that he has what it takes to have a monster game against anyone, but he has also shown a lack of consistency. Whatever the case, he has too much potential to consider benching.
7. Marc Bulger (STL) – He is definitely a risky choice as your starting QB this week, but even though the match ups were soft, and he was sacked often, Bulger posted decent numbers. More importantly, he has not been making mistakes under pressure. He faces a Seahawk pass defense that ranks 20th in week 12. If the make shift Rams offensive line can keep him safe, Bulger should have a quality fantasy outing.
8. Eli Manning (NYG) – As expected, he had a solid week 11, throwing for 283 yards, 1 TD, and no interceptions. Manning will have an even better match up this week against the worst pass defense in the NFL. If he can continue to limit mistakes this week, he should have another great game against Minnesota.
9. Ben Roethlisberger (PIT) – After posting elite fantasy numbers for several weeks, Roethlisberger was well below par in week 11 against the Jets. This week he has the Dolphins, who at first glance seem like a cup cake that he will roll over, but not so fast. While the Dolphins are a definite cupcake against the run, they have been excellent against the pass. They rank 4th in the NFL and have not allowed any QB to throw for more than 157 yards against them since week 7. They have also held opposing QB’s below 50% in completions, and have allowed only 1 TD compared to 4 interceptions in that span. Roethlisberger is more than capable, but the numbers do not lie. Keep expectations low this week, especially if Santonio Holmes on the sidelines with injury.
10. Kurt Warner (ARI) – He has looked great in the last 2 weeks, but he hasn’t exactly played the stiffest of competition (Cincinnati and Detroit). He should be able to do some damage again this week, but the 49ers pass defense ranks 9th, and they will probably not be dominated by Warner in week 12.
11. Jeff Garcia (TB) – He rarely puts up monster numbers, but he is consistently good. He has thrown 3 TD’s and no interceptions in his last 2 games, and only has 3 interceptions on the season. He should have another nice effort against the Redskins 23rd ranked pass defense.
12. David Garrard (JAC) – When healthy, he has been a rock solid fantasy QB. He won’t overwhelm you any week, but he gets the job done, and accumulates very respectable fantasy stats on a consistent basis. He has a nice match up against Buffalo’s 29th ranked pass defense.
13. Jay Cutler (DEN) – He is coming off of an impressive week 11 performance. Cutler is not the most reliable fantasy QB, but we like his chances again this week against a very shaky Bears pass defense. Cutler will also have Javon Walker back on the field, which can only add to his fantasy value.
14. Vince Young (TEN) – He had his best fantasy outing of the’07 campaign in week 11. Young is starting to show some potential as a passer, and not just as a running threat. He is still a risky option, as he lacks accuracy in his passes and makes too many mistakes under pressure when he can’t escape the pocket. He has a promising match up against the Bengals this week, but can he be consistently productive in the passing game? He hasn’t proven it yet.
15. Donovan McNabb (PHI) – UPDATE: McNabb is out with injuries. A.J. Feeley will start. On top of getting knocked out of last week’s game against Miami, McNabb was flat out horrible. If he is healthy enough to make the start this week, he could be in store for another tough game. The Patriots defense has not proven to be soft on QB’s, and while McNabb has the talent to produce a decent game, it will not come easy. It may be a good week to leave him off of your starting roster. (Check injury report: ankle and thumb)
16. Jason Campbell (WAS) – He has been outstanding in his last 2 games, but the Washington gunslinger has run hot and cold all season. He is on a hot streak, but Campbell is not a reliable starting option this week against Tampa’s 3rd ranked pass defense.
17. Phillip Rivers (SD) – He has been all over the map this season as far as his fantasy output is concerned. He had a fair week 11, but he was terrible the previous 2 weeks before that. He faces Baltimore this week, which would typically be considered a very difficult match up, but with the Ravens secondary limited to mostly second stringers; it may not be as tough as advertised. Never the less, Rivers is too unpredictable to start with any reasonable amount of confidence.
18. Kyle Boller (BAL) – Boller has the ability to make plays, but he does not have the supporting cast, and makes too many mistakes to be a very effective fantasy QB, even against San Diego’s 25th ranked pass defense.
19. Vinny Testaverde (CAR) – He could very well be a sleeper this week against a ridiculously bad Saints secondary, but he has not done enough this season to prove that he has the ability to produce a monster game against anyone. Testaverde could change our opinion this week, but we wouldn’t bet the farm on it.
20. Rex Grossman (CHI) – While he has not been flashy since returning to the starting role, Grossman has been efficient, but efficient does not account for much in fantasy football. Consider him an emergency fill in at best against Denver.
21. J.P. Losman (BUF) – Losman has done little that would make us recommend him as a starting fantasy QB. Jacksonville ranks 27th against the pass, but they play better than that ranking, and Losman is not capable of producing huge numbers against any defense.
22. Daunte Culpepper (OAK) – He looked pretty good last week, but then again, most QB’s do against the Vikings. He will face a very respectable Chiefs secondary this week, and is not recommended for use unless you are extremely desperate.
23. Brodie Croyle (KC) – He was not half bad in his first start last week for the Chiefs. While he was very efficient and mistake free, especially for a first start, Croyle posted below average fantasy production. He could be in for a rude awakening this week against a very good Raiders pass defense. Even if he plays efficiently again this week, Croyle has very little fantasy value.
24. Trent Dilfer (SF) – He is not worth dropping a back up kicker for in this offense. Do not start him against anyone.
25. Tarvaris Jackson (MIN) – They should start a petition in Minnesota to get rid of this guy. He does not belong in the NFL, and he should not be on your fantasy team. If you have gotten desperate enough to pick him up, your fantasy season is probably already over.
26. John Beck (MIA) – He may have a decent future ahead of him as a fantasy QB, but as for now, he can’t help you.
* Players that participated in Thursday games are not represented in this week’s QB rankings.
WEEK 12 RB RANKINGS
* Players that participated in Thursday games are not represented in this week’s RB rankings
1. Brian Westbrook (PHI) – While the match up against New England is far from ideal, it is a very tough week for fantasy RB’s and he is the pick of the litter. Westbrook has played great throughout the season, and is coming off of a career high 148 yards rushing last week. He will have a tough road to hoe against the Patriots, but he should be utilized early and often in the Eagles running and passing attacks as the focal point of their offense. Do not expect a monster game, but Westbrook is talented and versatile enough to do some damage. (Check injury report: knee)
2. LaDainian Tomlinson (SD) – Despite failing to reach the 100 yard rushing mark in his last 4 games, Tomlinson has remained productive, scoring a TD in each of his last 3 contests. He has also supplemented his lack of rushing yards with strong performances as a receiver out of the backfield in recent weeks. Tomlinson does not have a very good match up against Baltimore’s 2nd ranked run defense, but as usual, he should find a way to generate production, and remains a must start.
3. Willie Parker (PIT) – In what should have been one of his better outings last week, Parker was shut down by a lousy Jets run D. This week, his match up looks even better against Miami who lay claim to the league’s worst run D. While Parker is capable of putting up big numbers in this game, it will likely take a long breakaway run for him to find the end zone. Parker’s lack of scoring ability limits his fantasy value in what is otherwise a dream match up for him.
4. Clinton Portis (WAS) - After a pair of great fantasy outings in weeks 9 and 10, Portis was held to a mere 36 yards rushing last week against a very tough Cowboys run defense. He should get back on track against Tampa Bay’s 18th ranked run defense in week 12. Portis has yet to go more than 2 games without at least 1 TD all season, which is where he stands now, so he is a strong candidate to find the end zone. He should be in your starting line up.
5. Steven Jackson (STL) – Since returning from injury, Jackson has not posted consistent top flight numbers, but he has been really good. He faces familiar foe Seattle in week 12. Historically, Jackson has always played very well against the Seahawks, scoring a TD in 4 of 5 career starts. He should be able to continue his success against them at home on Sunday.
6. Willis McGahee (BAL) – He has been on a roll in recent weeks, scoring a TD in 5 straight games. McGahee will be shooting for a 6th consecutive score this week when the Ravens head to San Diego. The Charger defense is kind of a mystery. On the one hand they have shut down many top RB’s this season, but on the other hand, they rank 23 rd against the run. That ranking is a bit misleading, because the Adrian Peterson debacle accounts for about 33% of that yardage. Much of McGahee’s success will depend on which Charger defense decides to show up, but the way he has been playing, we like his chances either way.
7. Maurice Jones-Drew (JAC) – In his last 7 games, he has 6 TD’s, including a score in each of his last 2 games. He takes on the Bills 22nd ranked run defense this week, which bodes well. Last season, Jones-Drew averaged close to 10 yards per carry against them and also scored a TD. He also caught 5 passes for 48 yards. This match up holds a lot of promise for him and he should come through with a very solid fantasy outing.
8. Reggie Bush (NO) – Bush has a promising week 12 match up against Carolina and their 20th ranked run defense. In a week 5 game against the Panthers, he only rushed for 67 yards, but he did catch 9 passes for 52 yards. Expect similar numbers again this time around, with a bonus TD not out of the question. Bush is a solid start. (Check injury report: shin)
9. Chester Taylor (MIN) – The Vikings did not miss Adrian Peterson one bit, as veteran Chester Taylor filled in with amazing results. Taylor had a mind blowing 202 total yards and 3 TD’s. This week should prove to be a much tougher match up for Taylor as he faces the Giants 7th ranked run defense. While you can not expect anywhere close to a repeat of last week, he should produce decent numbers, and after last week; how do you not start him?
10. Edgerrin James (ARI) – While James has not been a great producer of yards in the running game this season, he does find the end zone on a fairly regular basis. He faces San Francisco’s 24th ranked run defense this week. In his last 4 starts against them, James has accumulated 375 yards rushing and 3 TD’s against them, including a 92 yard, 1 TD performance earlier this season. Given his history against the Niners, and the current state of their run D, he should have another strong effort against them in week 12.
11. LenDale White (TEN) – After a string of 100 yard rushing performances, and several strong fantasy outings, White has been almost non-existent in his last 2 starts. In part because the Titans have gotten behind early in those games, and had to turn to their passing game and the other reason is that he has just sucked. We expect him to bounce back this week against Cincinnati. The Bengals defense ranks 27th against the run, and have yet to really stop any RB all season.
12. Maurice Morris (SEA) – He has done an admirable job since taking over the starting job for Seattle. Morris has managed to find the end zone in each of his first 2 starts this season, and will look for a 3rd straight this week against St. Louis. The Rams run D ranks a mediocre 19th, and has allowed 11 TD’s on the ground this season, so extending his TD streak seems likely. He is playing well, so keep him in your starting line up.
13. Jamal Lewis (CLE) – With the exception of week 10 against Pittsburgh, Lewis has been lighting up fantasy scoreboards, scoring 5 TD’s in his last 3 games. Granted, 4 of those came in 1 game, but the other came in a solid performance last week against a very tough Ravens D. This week should be much easier, as Lewis will face the Texans 21st ranked run defense. This match up bodes well for him, and he should produce another solid effort, with at least 1 TD a strong possibility. There is always a risk factor in starting him, but it is pretty low this week.
14. Ron Dayne (HOU) – Dayne has played well in sub duty for Ahman Green. He should get the start again this week, and while he is not typically recommended for fantasy line ups, week 12 is an exception. Reason being that he faces a horrible Browns run defense, and few match ups are better. Also, Dayne has played well enough to earn it, totaling 237 yards and a TD in his last 2 games. He is a nice sleeper for week 12.
15. Selvin Young (DEN) – Once again it is unclear what the RB situation will be for Denver. Henry is probably out with his knee injury and/or potential season ending suspension, and Young has yet to practice with a sprained knee of his own. As for now, we anticipate Young will start, but that is merely an educated guess. He has a solid match up against the Bears 26th ranked run defense. Barring any setbacks with his knee, or the unlikely scenario in which Henry or 3rd string Andre Hall start, expect Young to have a decent output at minimum. (Check injury report: knee)
16. Earnest Graham (TB) – He continues to prove that he has what it takes to be a very productive fantasy back. Graham has surpassed the 100 yard mark and scored a TD in each of his last 2 games. He will be in for a big test this week against the Redskins top 10 run defense, but he should be up for the challenge. (Check injury report: ankle)
17. Cedric Benson (CHI) – After a pretty disappointing season through week 9, Benson is starting to show signs of turning things around. While he is still struggling to gain yards, he has managed to hit pay dirt in each of his last 2 games, and did break a 43 yarder last week against Seattle. Benson has a fairly favorable match up against Denver, at least on paper. The Denver run defense ranks a pathetic 30th, but they have tightened things up in their last 2 games, and will likely play much better than their ranking would indicate. He has a shot at his 3rd straight impressive game, but as you know, Benson is not the most reliable guy to have in your line up.
18. Frank Gore (SF) – He has done little to indicate that he is going to break out of his slump anytime soon, especially with the supporting cast he has in this horrible offense. On a positive note, Gore has a great history against Arizona scoring 5 TD’s in his last 5 games, including a score against them in week 1, but in all fairness, both of these teams are in a different place now. He has the talent to make a decent contribution to your fantasy roster this week, but keep expectations more on the low end once again.
19. Fred Taylor (JAC) – He has managed to increase his fantasy production a bit recently, but it is still far from stellar. Taylor has a nice match up against the Bills this week, a team he rushed for over 100 yards against last season. He is not highly recommended, but he could make for a nice fill in this week. (Check injury report: thigh)
20. Kolby Smith (KC) – We realize that this guy has virtually no NFL experience, and he has done little with the handful of carries he has received, but with Larry Johnson out, and Priest Holmes once again retired, Smith will carry the load for the Chiefs this week. He could not have scripted a better week to do it either. He faces a Raiders run defense that ranks 30th, and has been blistered by almost every RB they have faced. While you run a huge risk starting the unproven Smith this week, he may be a big time sleeper, given the match up. If you are in need of a starting RB this week, he could be worth a shot.
21. Laurence Maroney (NE) – He did manage to rush for his first TD of the season last week, but as usual, he was pretty disappointing otherwise. The fact is that Maroney is a talented RB, but the Patriots really don’t need him. He generally only gets a handful of carries, and last week’s TD was the first goal line carry we have seen him get all season. This week he faces a fairly tough Eagles run defense, so you can probably expect the Patriots to go to the air most of the evening as usual. The potential is always there for him in such a high powered offense, but he is basically useless to fantasy owners if they do not get him the ball.
22. Justin Fargas (OAK) – He has been pretty mediocre in his last 2 games, but he has shown promise at times this season. Fargas has game breaking speed and is always a threat to break loose for a long TD, but that is a long shot even against a very average Chiefs run defense. He is not highly recommended for your starting line up this week.
23. DeShaun Foster (CAR) – For the most part, Foster has had a lack luster season. He is averaging 67 yards per game on the ground and only has 2 rushing scores. He faces an average New Orleans run defense this week, but he only managed 59 total yards against them in a week 5 meeting. You will be better served with him riding the pine. (Check injury report: toe)
24. Derrick Ward (NYG) – He has proven that he has the necessary skills to be a quality fantasy back. If he is healthy enough himself, Ward will likely play the role of fill in for the injured Brandon Jacobs once again. The bad news is that he will probably have to share the workload with Reuben Droughns, and he will be facing Minnesota, who boasts one of the NFL’s best run defenses. Given the numerous obstacles he has to overcome this week, we advise you to leave him on the bench if you can. (Check injury report: ankle, groin)
25. Jesse Chatman (MIA) – He has shown some promise in his brief stint as the starting RB for the fins, but he is a long way from elite status. Chatman has a tall order this week when he faces Pittsburgh’s 3 rd ranked run defense on Monday night. While the Steelers struggled against the run last week, you can not expect them to stumble 2 weeks in a row. Keep Chatman reserved for a better match up.
26. Kenny Watson (CIN) – Watson may serve as the back up RB for the Bengals, but he has proven to be the more effective back. He will likely split carries with starter Rudi Johnson once again this week, which will limit his value. He will also face Tennessee’s 5th ranked run defense. The Titans run defense has struggled in the last couple of games, but if they get DT Albert Haynesworth back this week, they should return to dominance. With the match up and the fact that he will share the load, Watson does not have much fantasy value for week 12.
27. Rudi Johnson (CIN) – The former Pro Bowl RB has been a huge bust for fantasy owners even when healthy. You can blame a lot of his failure on offensive line play, but they can not take on all of the responsibility for such a pathetic season, because Kenny Watson has managed to produce with that same line. Johnson may be done as a productive fantasy back, at least for this season. He has done nothing to prove himself worthy of a week 12 start.
28. Anthony Thomas (BUF) – Thomas was pretty bad last week in his first start of the season, even taking into consideration he was playing against New England. He only had 31 rushing yards and averaged 2.8 yards per carry. He should make his second straight start against Jacksonville this week with Lynch still bothered by an ankle sprain, and while the match up is better, it is far from favorable. He is probably not worth the risk.
29. Reuben Droughns (NYG) – He will likely get a fair share of carries this week, including goal line carries with Brandon Jacobs out. There is also a chance that Ward will be too banged up to play and Droughns would then get the start, raising his fantasy stock dramatically. Unfortunately, that will probably not be the case, and he faces a very tough match up against Minnesota. Keep on the bench unless something changes in the next few days.
30. Chris Brown (TEN) - He will serve as the back up for LenDale White, but Brown is very capable of being a star for the Titans this week. He has a promising match up against the Bengals, who can not stop any rushing attack. The only real question is will he get enough carries to make for a worthy starting fantasy back? He only had 3 carries last week, and while that number will almost certainly increase this week, we can not advise you to start him on hope alone. If you are very desperate, and have nothing to lose, Brown could be your man.
*Other potential RB options for week 12 include (in ranked order):
Marshawn Lynch (BUF) – Check injury report: ankle, not expected to play
Travis Henry (DEN) – Check injury and player reports: knee injury and potential suspension; unlikely to play
Andre Hall (DEN) – Check status for Selvin Young and Travis Henry before considering him
Ahman Green (HOU) – Check injury report: knee; not expected to play
Najeh Davenport (PIT) – Great match up, goal line potential, but not enough carries
Kevin Faulk (NE) – Fantasy value lies in his receiving abilities
Adrian Peterson (CHI) – Scored a TD last week, but not enough carries
DeAngelo Williams (CAR) – Little value if any, unless Foster gets hurt
Michael Pittman (TB) – Not enough carries to hold much weight
WEEK 12 WR RANKINGS
* Players appearing in Thursday games are not included in this week’s WR rankings
1. Randy Moss (NE) – In his last 2 games, Moss had 19 receptions for 273 yards and 5 TD’s. On the season, he has scored at least 1 TD in all but one game, totaling 16 in all. Moss is a super stud and a rock solid lock for your starting roster.
2. Andre Johnson (HOU) – He returned from an extensive knee injury last week and did not miss a beat. Johnson produced huge fantasy numbers in his first game since week 2, hauling in 6 passes for 120 yards and a score. In 3 starts this season, he has 20 receptions, 382 yards, and 4 TD’s. That is more than many WR’s do in a season. He is a must start against a horrible Browns pass defense.
3. T.J. Houshmandzadeh (CIN) – With last week’s score, Houshmandzadeh now has 11 on the season, ranking him behind only Randy Moss (16) and T.O. (12). He has also scored at least 1 TD in 9 of 10 starts. He has yet to practice this week with a sore back, so check on his status before starting him against Tennessee.(Check injury report: back)
4. Braylon Edwards (CLE) – After 3 fairly tough match ups in a row, Edwards should put up star numbers once again versus Houston. While he only has 1TD in his last 3 games, he does have 6 in his last 5 games, and 10 TD’s total. Edwards should have little trouble with a very average Texans secondary that has allowed 13 TD’s on the season.
5. Torry Holt (STL) – Even with a bad knee, Holt is still one of the most dangerous WR’s in the NFL. In his last 3 starts, he has 21 catches for 289 yards and 2 TD’s. Holt will face the Seahawks 20th ranked pass defense in week 12, and caught 8 passes for 82 yards in a week 7 meeting with them. If there are no serious setbacks with his knee, Holt should have a big game at home against Seattle. (Check injury report: knee)
6. Larry Fitzgerald (ARI) – After 2 huge games in a row, accumulating 16 receptions for 167 yards and 3 TD’s, Fitzgerald is poised for a 3rd against San Francisco. While the 49er pass defense ranks a very respectable 9th in the league, they have allowed 14 passing TD’s on the season, which is not so respectable. There is no question that Fitzgerald is the go to guy in the Cards passing game, so do not hesitate to put him in your starting line up for week 12.
7. Marques Colston (NO) – After a lack luster beginning to the season, Colston has proven that he is no fluke. While he is not finding the end zone as often as fantasy owners would like, he is always a threat in that capacity, and has more than made up for it with staggering reception and yardage statistics. In Colston’s last 3 games alone, he is averaging 9 catches and 135 yards per game. He does not have a great track record against Carolina, but he is on fire right now, so start him while he is still hot.
8. D.J. Hackett (SEA) – After missing the first 8 weeks of the season, Hackett has been blistering opposing defenses for the last 3 weeks. During that span, he has 23 catches for 295 yards and 3 TD’s. At this point, he is obviously QB Matt Hasselbeck’s favorite target, and he should be targeted early and often in week 12 when the high powered Seahawk passing attack meets up with a mediocre Rams pass defense. He is a must start.
9. Wes Welker (NE) – He has proven to be a very consistent fantasy performer in recent weeks, and is always a threat to find pay dirt in the Pats high powered passing attack. Welker also adds value as a dangerous return specialist for those of you in leagues that account for return stats. He should provide solid numbers once again this week at home against the Eagles.
10. Joey Galloway (TB) – He only managed to haul in 2 passes last week, but as usual, this deep threat receiver made them count as he was able to score on a 44 yard strike from Garcia. Galloway will be looking to score a TD for the 4th straight game when the Bucs take on the Redskins and their 23rd ranked pass defense in week 12. The Washington pass defense was lit up by big ply WR Terrell Owens last week. While Galloway is no T.O., he is the go to guy for Tampa, and should be able to do some damage.
11. Hines Ward (PIT) – After a fairly poor week 11 showing, Ward should bounce back this week against Miami on Monday night. His chances for a great week 12 got much better this week with the news that fellow star WR Santonio Holmes will most likely be out for this week’s game. If Holmes is not available, which appears to be the case, Ward will become “Big Bens’ go to guy, and should have a big game.
12. Anquan Boldin (ARI) – Despite the fact that he is still battling a hip injury he suffered earlier in the season, Boldin is still one of the better fantasy options at his position. He pulled in 4 catches last week for 74 yards and a TD. This week he faces a pretty good pass defense in the 49ers who rank 9th in that category, but in 5 career starts against San Fran, Boldin has 4 TD’s, including 1 in an earlier meeting this season. We like his chances for another in week12.
13. Chad Johnson (CIN) – He continues to put up decent reception and yardage numbers on a consistent basis, but Ocho Cinco has not made an appearance in the end zone since week 2, and only has 3 TD’s on the season. While he can’t really be considered a complete bust this season, Johnson has been a big disappointment to fantasy owners. He will try to get on track against the Titans in week 12. At the very least, he should continue to post decent reception and yardage numbers.
14. Steve Smith (CAR) – Smith will return this week after sitting out week 11 with a shin injury. To this point, he has had a less than stellar season by his standards, and has not been highly recommended for fantasy play in recent weeks. Despite his recent shortcomings, he has played pretty well with Testaverde under center, and that appears to be the case for week 12. In addition, Smith has an extremely promising match up against the Saints 28th ranked pass defense. He has played brilliantly against the Saints throughout his career, and scored a TD against them in a week 5 meeting. If he is going to turn it around, this will be the week. He is a solid starting option for your roster.
15. Plaxico Burress (NYG) – The injury to his ankle has had an obvious effect on his ability to make plays. He has had 4 lack luster performances in a row, and shows a complete lack of being able to stretch the field which is typically his strong suit. Burress will be facing his best fantasy match up of the season this week when his Giants face the Vikings and their cellar dwelling pass defense, but if his ankle is not up to the task; the promising match up may go to the way side. If the ankle is better this week, he could have a monster game, but at this point, keep your expectations below par. (Check injury report: ankle)
16. Chris Henry (CIN) – In his 2 games back from suspension, Henry has posted very solid numbers, even surpassing those of fellow star WR Chad Johnson. Henry is on a roll, and there is no reason to believe that he won’t get it done again in week 12 against Tennessee. He should be in your starting line up.
17. Dwayne Bowe (KC) – Despite the potential stumbling block of a new QB, Bowe did not skip a beat last week with 7 catches for 64 yards and a TD. Since being shut out in week 9, he has posted 2 consecutive strong efforts. He faces a tough match up against the Raiders 6th ranked pass defense in week 12, but he did put up 83 yards against them in an earlier meeting, and he appears to have good chemistry with Brodie Croyle. Bowe remains a bit of a risk, but he is capable of a huge game, and you just may kick yourself if you don’t have him in your line up, so start him.
18. Deion Branch (SEA) – He had a mildly disappointing come back last week catching 4 passes for a lack luster 31 yards. The good news is that his ankle held up. Also good news, he plays in a pass heavy offense. The bad news is that Hasselbeck spreads the ball around a lot, and you never know for sure who will be the big beneficiary any week. That being said, we look for Branch to bounce back with a solid week 12 at St. Louis. In a 2006 meeting with the Rams, he had 95 total yards and 2 TD’s.
19. Lee Evans (BUF) – Evans was not spectacular last week with a 4 catch 40 yard performance against New England, but then again he was not expected to be. This week he will face a Jacksonville secondary that ranks a low 27th. Unfortunately, that number is a little misleading, and this secondary is better than their ranking suggests. In addition, Evans will likely be matched up against RaShean Mathis for much of the game, who is one of the league’s better cover corners. In spite of that, we still believe Evans will have a solid day, and is worth consideration for your starting roster.
20. Donte’ Stallworth (NE) – He has not produced overwhelming fantasy stats in recent weeks, but he is definitely capable. Stallworth is well overdue to find pay dirt, and he couldn’t pick a better week to do it than against his former team, the Philadelphia Eagles. The Eagles have a decent secondary, but they have yet to face a passing attack anywhere close to the caliber of the Patriots, and Stallworth should be a big part of that attack. We like his chances for a strong game.
21. Brandon Marshall (DEN) – He found the end zone for only the 3rd time this season last week against the Titans. He does not find the end zone often, but he puts up respectable numbers on a consistent basis, and a TD is just a bonus for fantasy owners. He has a favorable match up again this week against Chicago’s 22nd ranked pass defense. He may lose some touches if Javon Walker returns from injury as anticipated, but then again, Walker’s return may take the heat off of Marshall. This week will say a lot for both players. Until then, consider Marshall a decent start as the go to guy for at least 1 more week.
22. Bernard Berrian (CHI) – He does not have “big games” on a consistent basis, but he has had a solid season. The return of Rex Grossman also seems to have had a positive effect, as Berrian pulled in 9 passes for 102 yards last week. In week 12, he will face a Denver secondary that looks great on paper, but they have struggled in recent weeks, even top flight corners Champ Bailey and Dre’ Bly have been giving up a lot of big plays of late. You can’t consider Berrian a lock, but we like his chances. (Check injury report: toe)
23. Bobby Engram (SEA) – He is not the most consistent receiver out there, but he does produce on some level every week. He is now considered the #3 WR in the Seahawks arsenal, but in a pass heavy attack such as Seattle’s, Engram is still targeted often. He is also a threat to find the end zone any week, but then again, so are the 4 other receivers Hasselbeck uses on a regular basis. Engram had 6 catches for 73 yards in an earlier meeting with the Rams. He does not have great fantasy appeal this week, but he will be a decent fit for most fantasy line ups.
24. Chris Chambers (SD) – Since he arrived in San Diego, the Chargers offense has not played very well, and Chambers numbers, while still respectable, have suffered a bit. He did have a solid week 11, and despite the struggles of QB Phillip Rivers, he does seem to target Chambers on a regular basis. He probably won’t have a monster game, but he should, again, put up respectable numbers against a beat up Baltimore secondary that has struggled in recent weeks.
25. Derrick Mason (BAL) – After a pair of fairly disappointing weeks, Mason bounced back with a solid week 11 performance. He is not a strong contender for the end zone any week, but he provides solid reception and yardage numbers on a fairly consistent basis. Expect more of the same against San Diego’s 25th ranked pass defense.
26. Santana Moss (WAS) – Moss finally decided to grace fantasy owners with his presence in week 11, accumulating 9 catches for 121 yards and a TD, top flight numbers for any receiver. Unfortunately, only 2 or 3 hardcore Skins fans probably had him starting. Before missing week 10 with a heel injury, Moss was starting to show signs of turning things around, but last week’s huge game, served as a reminder that he still has the tools to play on a high level. It may have very well been a fluke, but that kind of production bodes well for the rest of the season. He is, no doubt, a risk against a tough Bucs secondary, but the pay off could be big after a nice confidence and momentum builder. (Check injury report: heel)
27. Isaac Bruce (STL) – He has not wowed fantasy owners with his recent production, but he has shown impressive consistency in posting decent weekly stat lines. Bruce should provide fantasy owners with another decent effort this week at the very least. He faces a Seattle pass defense that ranks 20th, and while you can not expect overwhelming production, he could be a nice fit on most fantasy rosters.
28. Ronald Curry (OAK) – He is obviously a more productive fantasy receiver with Culpepper running the show, as is evident in his stat line. Curry had 120 receiving yards last week, after several sub par performances with McCown calling the signals. That being said, Curry’s numbers are capable of taking a nose dive any week, no matter who is taking the snaps. He is capable, but risky this week against a decent Kansas City secondary.
29. Javon Walker (DEN) – He has fully participated in practice this week, and is listed as probable for this week’s game against the Bears. It would be his first game back since going down with a knee injury in week 3. Before the injury, Walker was off to a great start, posting at least 100 yards in each of his first 2 games. While Walker says his knee is game ready, he also admits that it is not at 100%. For this reason, Walker may only be given limited reps. If he plays the entire game he could do some real damage against a mediocre Bears secondary. The Broncos have not released any details on the amount they expect him to play as of yet. While you are probably better served just watching his progress this week, Walker could well be worth the risk for those of you who have little to lose and a lot to gain. Keep expectations low this week, but do not be surprised if he comes up big. (Check injury report: knee)
30. Kevin Curtis (PHI) – While Curtis has provided fantasy owners with a couple of monster games this season, he has been a mild disappointment overall, especially if you take into account the hype surrounding him heading into the season. He should be targeted fairly often this week, but he faces a very tough New England secondary, so keep expectations low.
31. Justin Gage (TEN) – He is quickly turning into a favorite target for Vince Young, and he is gaining fantasy value each passing week. In his last 2 games, Gage has totaled 13 catches for 156 yards and a TD. The bad news is that Vince Young and the Titans offense is fairly inconsistent and unpredictable. The good news is that he is hot, and has a very favorable match up this week against a horrible Bengals pass defense. If the Titans come out throwing, like they have the last 2 games, Gage stands to have another productive afternoon.
32. Brandon Stokley (DEN) – Stokley has had a pretty good run as a starting WR for the Broncos, even scoring the occasional TD. With the likely return of Javon Walker this week, Stokley will go back to the slot and become the #3 guy once again. While he should continue to produce on some level, you should probably expect to see his numbers suffer a bit. He has a good match up this week, but he is kind of in wait and see mode.
33. Joe Jurevicius (CLE) –. Jurevicius was an early season waiver wire favorite based on his ability to find the end zone, but now his fantasy value is based more on receptions and yardage. Unfortunately, TD’s are more important in the fantasy world, so his value is somewhat limited, but he has shown good consistency, and that certainly has its place in the fantasy world as well. He has a pretty good match up against Houston this week, and he has become more involved in the offense outside of the red zone, but do not expect much more than his usual.
34. Arnaz Battle (SF) – He has really been the lone bright spot in a terrible 49er passing game, and that still isn’t saying much. Battle has put up fairly respectable numbers in the last few weeks, but he has not scored a TD since week 7. He faces a pretty good Arizona secondary this week, but he did have 5 catches for 60 yards and a rushing TD against them in an earlier meeting.
35. Amani Toomer (NYG) – He has done little to write home about for most of the season, but considering he faces the league’s worst pass defense in week 12, and Plaxico Burress is still nursing a bad ankle; he may have some sleeper value. If you desperately need a receiver this week, Toomer might be a good guy to look to, but his potential is based mostly on the favorable match up against the Vikings.
36. Nate Washington (PIT) – He has had already had 1 big fantasy outing this season, and with Santonio Holmes expected to miss Monday nights game against the Dolphins, a 2nd is a possibility. At the very least, Washington should see his targets increase dramatically. The potential is certainly there, but do not get too excited about putting him in your starting line up, he is still a bit of a long shot.
37. Drew Bennett (STL) – He has a favorable match up against Seattle’s 20th ranked pass defense, and he has the tools to have a solid game, but he is very risky. Consider him a desperation starter for week 12.
38. Ike Hilliard (TB) – He has had his moments this season, but he is coming off of a poor 1 catch performance, and shows a lack of reliability. Also, Hilliard has only 1 TD on the season, so he really only has value in reception heavy leagues. He is capable of a nice game, but not highly recommended for your starting roster.
39. Muhsin Muhammad (CHI) – Muhammad is not likely to produce stud numbers any week, in fact, there is a small chance he could produce nothing at all, but he has posted fair numbers over the last couple of games, and he has the potential for more. Muhammad is not a safe start against Denver this week, but he is capable.
40. Reggie Brown (PHI) – After a pretty solid 5 week run of success, Brown suffered a set back in week 11. You can probably attribute the bad game to McNabb leaving early with an injury. If McNabb is healthy enough to play, Brown should restore some of his fantasy value, but do not count on much against a defense as polished as New England’s. If Feeley starts in place of McNabb, Brown has little value.
41. Kevin Walter (HOU) – He was able to provide fantasy owners with several nice games this season, including 2 that could be considered huge. Unfortunately, his value dropped significantly with the return of Andre Johnson. While he retains some fantasy appeal, and has a great match up against Cleveland’s 31st ranked pass defense, Walter is probably no better than an emergency fill in for your line up.
42. Drew Carter (CAR) – Carter is coming off of a huge game last week catching 5 passes for 132 yards and a TD. It was his second TD game in 3 weeks. He also has a promising match up against the Saints 28th ranked pass defense. He has played well in recent weeks, especially with Testaverde taking the snaps, but he is still pretty unreliable, and with Steve Smith returning this week, his chances for a repeat of last week are slim to none.
43. Antwaan Randle El (WAS) – On a positive note, he produces fair reception and yardage numbers almost every week. Unfortunately, he has yet to score even 1 TD this season, and that is the money maker in fantasy football. If you want a guy who will almost definitely get you a few points this week, then he is your man, but if you have high expectations, he is probably not for you. (Check injury report: chest)
44. Mark Clayton (BAL) – He showed great promise in week 10 after an otherwise disappointing season, but he could not back it up in week 11 with another big let down. He does not come highly recommended, but keep expectations low if you decide to start Clayton against San Diego.
45. Ted Ginn (MIA) – Ginn could make for a nice sneaky start in week 12, especially for those of you in leagues that account for return yardage. He had a very solid week 11, and was new QB John Beck’s go to guy. Ginn had 4 catches for 52 yards and an 89 yard punt return for a TD. If Beck continues to target him, he may be worth a look.
46. Reggie Williams (JAC) – He has proven that he has the potential for a big game any week, but he has been all or nothing for the better part of the season. Williams has a favorable week 12 match up against Buffalo’s 29th ranked pass defense, but he is a big gamble for your roster, and not highly recommended.
47. Keenan McCardell (WAS) – The aging McCardell has proven he still has a little left in the tank by posting decent numbers for 2 consecutive weeks now. He faces a tough Tampa secondary in week 12, and he is the teams #3 option at receiver, so while he has shown promise recently, do not expect much.
48. Brandon Jones (TEN) – You can not expect a great deal from him based on his stats to this point, but in all fairness, he is just now completely healthy after being injured, and he is coming off a TD last week. Jones is a bit of a stretch for your starting roster, but he is capable of making big plays down field, and has a favorable match up against the Bengals.
49. Jerry Porter (OAK) – He has had a couple of bright spots in his ’07 campaign, but for the most part, he is barely worth consideration unless you are in a tight spot.
50. David Patten (NO) – He has produced some solid games here and there, but has not proven to be reliable enough to be considered a good starting option. Roll the dice at your own risk.
* Other WR’s for consideration in week 12 include (in ranked order): Santonio Holmes (PIT) – (check injury report: unlikely to play with an ankle sprain), Nate Burleson (SEA), Roydell Williams (TEN), Dennis Northcutt (JAC), Andre Davis (HOU), Cedric Wilson (PIT), Kerry Colbert (CAR), Bobby Wade (MIN), Eddie Kennison (KC), Roscoe Parrish (BUF),Vincent Jackson (SD), Willie Reid (PIT), Marty Booker (MIA), Devery Henderson (NO), Darrell Jackson (SF), Joshua Cribbs (CLE) - return specialist, and Lance Moore (NO),
WEEK 12 TE RANKINGS
* Players that participated in Thursday games are not represented in this week’s TE rankings
1. Antonio Gates (SD)
2. Kellen Winslow (CLE)
3. Tony Gonzalez (KC)
4. Heath Miller (PIT)
5. Jeremy Shockey (NYG)
6. ChrisCooley (WAS)
7. Ben Watson (NE)
8. Greg Olsen (CHI)
9. Owen Daniels (HOU)
10. Tony Scheffler (DEN)
11. Vernon Davis (SF)
12. Quinn Sypniewski (BAL)
13. Eric Johnson (NO)
14. L.J. Smith (PHI)
15. Bo Scaife (TEN)
16. Jeff King (CAR)
17. Zach Miller (OAK)
18. Alex Smith (TB)
19. Desmond Clark (CHI)
20. Leonard Pope (ARI)
21. Randy McMichael (STL)
22. Visanthe Shiancoe (MIN)
23. Marcedes Lewis (JAC)
24. David Martin (MIA)
25. Marcus Pollard (SEA)
*Other TE’s for consideration in week 12 include (in ranked order):
Todd Heap (BAL) – Check injury report: Thigh, unlikely to play, but a must start if he does
Daniel Graham (DEN)
Robert Royal (BUF)
Matt Spaeth (PIT)
Will Heller (SEA)
Reggie Kelly (CIN)
WEEK 12 DEFENSE RANKINGS
* Teams that participated in Thursday games are not represented in this week’s Defensive rankings
1. Pittsburgh (MIA)
2. New England (PHI)
3. NY Giants (MIN)
4. Jacksonville (BUF)
5. San Diego (BAL)
6. Arizona (SF)
7. Tampa Bay (WAS)
8. Kansas City (OAK)
9. Tennessee (@CIN)
10. Baltimore (@SD)
11. Oakland (@KC)
12. Denver (@CHI)
13. Chicago (DEN)
14. Washington (@TB)
16. Seattle (@STL)
17. Minnesota (@NYG)
18. New Orleans (@CAR)
19. Miami (@PIT)
20. San Francisco (@ARI)
21. Carolina (NO)
22. St. Louis (SEA)
23. Cincinnati (TEN)
24. Cleveland (HOU)
25. Houston (@CLE)
26. Philadelphia (@NE)
Wednesday
Thanksgiving Day Fantasy Outlook (G.Bay @ DET)
Here’s our look at who to start and who to bench on your fantasy football team for the Green Bay/Detroit game.
Green Bay
QB – Brett Favre – Favre continues to post elite fantasy QB numbers on a weekly basis. In his last 2 games alone, he has thrown 6 TD’s and zero interceptions. He should have a field day on Turkey Day against the 30th ranked Lions pass defense. Favre is a must start for your fantasy roster in week 12.
RB – Ryan Grant – It is uncertain what Grant’s status will be for Thursday at this time. He was limited in practice on Tuesday with a mild ankle sprain, and expects to play in the game despite the short week. Grant has played very well since taking over the starting duties in week 8. He will be facing a Lions run defense which ranks 8th, but that is misleading because many teams are pass happy against them. The Packers will also come out throwing, but Grant is a strong candidate to find the end zone in goal line situations. If he plays, he is a solid starting option for your line up, unless better options are available to you. (Check injury report: ankle)
RB – Brandon Jackson – The only way Jackson has any fantasy value what so ever this week is if Ryan Grant is unable to play or has to leave the game early. At this point, it appears Grant will start, and even if Jackson does get the nod, he has done nothing to prove himself worthy of a starting spot on your fantasy roster. Do not start him unless you are desperate, and Grant is ruled out for Thursday’s game.
WR – Greg Jennings – He has started 8 games this season, in 6 of those games, Jennings has found the end zone at least once. He is a strong candidate to find pay dirt once again this week against the Lions 30th ranked pass defense. The Lions have given up 19 TD’s through the air this season. Only the Browns and Bengals have allowed more. Consider Jennings a very strong start on Turkey Day.
WR – Donald Driver – While Driver has had a solid season in the reception and yardage categories, he has done little to help fantasy owners in the scoring department. He only has 2 TD’s on the season, and has failed to find the end zone in 7 straight games. This week’s match up against the Lions 30th ranked pass defense will provide him with the most promising opportunity to hit pay dirt he has seen all season. Detroit has allowed 19 passing TD’s. At minimum, Driver should provide a solid stat line, and should be in your starting line up for Thursday.
WR- James Jones – Despite a couple of great weeks, Jones has been mostly delegated for mop duty as the Packers 3rd receiver. He has a favorable match up against the Lions, and a TD would not be out of the question, however, 3 or 4 catches for moderate yardage is most likely, as he will probably get lost in the shuffle as usual. Jones could serve as a decent emergency fill in for week 12, but do not expect much.
TE – Donald Lee – He has been on fire as of late scoring 3 TD’s in his last two games. He faces a poor Lions pass defense in week 12 which has trouble containing TE’s, so he could have another big week. Lee has not quite reached elite fantasy stud status, but he appears well on his way, as he has become one of Favre’s favorite red zone targets. If you have him, start him.
Packers Defense – They have been one of the better fantasy defenses around in recent weeks. They rank in the top 10 in both scoring defense and against the run. They face a Lions offense that has struggled to score points in recent weeks, but remain very dangerous. The Lions feature a potent passing game, and the Green Bay defense ranks a mediocre 19th against the pass. They may give up a couple of big plays here and there, but they should also be able to create pressure off of the edges to disrupt the Detroit passing attack, creating sacks and turnovers. The Packers D has moderately high value for week 12, and we recommended them for use in your starting line up.
Detroit
QB – Jon Kitna – Kitna threw for 377 yards and a TD last week, but he also threw 3 interceptions. It is hard to anticipate what to expect from him on Thanksgiving against the Packers given his checkered past against them. The fact that he is at home and not at the frozen tundra plays heavily in his favor. He should be able to throw on them considering the Packers rank a mediocre 19th against the pass, but he will also likely see a ton of pressure from the Packers talented DE’s, which could lead to sacks and interceptions. Kitna should provide similar numbers to last week, and he is probably middle of the pack as far as fantasy QB’s are concerned in week 12. While he is far from being a lock, you could do much worse.
RB – Kevin Jones – After a pair of strong fantasy performances, Jones has seen his fantasy value drop drastically, as the Lions have once again returned to a pass first philosophy. In his last 2 games, he has a mere 21 yards rushing on 15 carries. He will likely be quiet on Turkey Day as well, considering they face a Packers defense that is 9th best against the run. Jones does have TD potential as the Lions goal line back, but you can never count on that. He has moderately low value overall for week 12, and is not highly recommended for your starting roster.
WR – Roy Williams – After several slow weeks, Williams has picked up the pace in his last 2 games totaling 12 receptions for 151 yards and 2 TD’s. The Lions pass happy offense should be in full swing again this week against the Packers 19th ranked pass D, so Williams could have another strong effort. He is much too talented to leave off of your starting roster, and should provide solid numbers.
WR – Shaun McDonald – He has provided fantasy owners with solid numbers throughout the season, and if he would quit fumbling, they would be even better. He is the one receiver besides Roy Williams that never seems to get lost in the shuffle of the Lions passing attack. McDonald is targeted early and often every week. He is unlikely to produce monster numbers against the Packers, but he is capable of a moderately high fantasy output. Consider him a #3 WR or flex starter in your line up at worst.
WR – Calvin Johnson – Johnson finally had a productive fantasy week against the Giants, after 3 lack luster performances in a row. He remains very unpredictable, as he tends to get lost in the shuffle of potential targets for Kitna. While he has provided 3 or 4 solid games this season, he is yet to have that monster breakout game we have all been expecting. We believe it will happen, and it very well could be on Thanksgiving, but do not count on it. We recommend him as no better than a #3 starter for your roster. Potential only gets you so far in the fantasy world, but he has plenty of it.
WR – Mike Furrey – He was one of the biggest surprises of last season for fantasy owners, posting huge games on a weekly basis. With the arrival of Calvin Johnson and Shaun McDonald this season, Furrey has somehow been lost in the mix. He has provided fair numbers on a consistent basis, but has really done nothing to write home about. With this offense, Furrey could have a breakout week anytime, but based on his performance to this point in the season, we can list him as no better than an emergency fill in against the Packers.
TE – Sean McHugh – He only has 10 receptions on the season, as the Lions rarely utilize the TE position in their offense. McHugh is not worth consideration for week 12.
Lions Defense – They do rank among the NFL’s elite in creating sacks and turnovers, which can translate nicely on a fantasy score sheet. They also have done well against the run, ranking 8th in the NFL. Unfortunately, they are horrible against the pass, and they tend to give up way too many points. They face a very aggressive Packers offense this Thanksgiving which does not bode well for them. The Detroit defense has potential, but moderately low value for week 12. We suggest seeking a better option if possible.
Thanksgiving Day Fantasy Outlook (IND @ ATL)
Here's our look at who to start and who to bench on your fantasy football team for the Indianapolis/Atlanta game.
Indianapolis
QB - Peyton Manning – Manning struggled for the second consecutive week completing just 16-32 passes for 163 yards 0 TD’s, and 1 interception. One poor game from Manning is understandable, but two in a row is unheard of, even without Marvin Harrison. Harrison will most likely be absent again this week, which won’t help, but Manning’s issues appear bigger than simply playing without his star wide out. While he should rebound against Atlanta, it is hard to be fully confident in his abilities at this time. If you have him on your roster, you almost have to start him, but until the slump ends, keep expectations lower than usual.
RB – Joseph Addai – He faces a Falcons defense that ranks 25th against the run, and as an added bonus, both of the Falcons starting DT’s will miss the game with injuries. Addai should be able to inflict some serious damage under those circumstances, and is considered one of the strongest fantasy backs for week 12. He should be in your starting line up without question, and you can almost certainly expect a big game from him.
RB – Kenton Keith – He has seen his workload and production decrease dramatically in recent weeks, and is really not worth consideration in week 12. He may have some value if the Colts blow the Falcons out early and Addai gets pulled, but he is not worth taking that chance on. Sit him.
WR – Reggie Wayne – A 4 catch 75 yard game would be more than adequate for most WR’s, but by Reggie Wayne standards, that is a bad game. He should bounce back nicely this week against the Falcons. Marvin Harrison is expected to miss yet another game, and Wayne will once again be the beneficiary. He is a must start.
WR – Marvin Harrison – While he is listed as questionable for Thursday’s game against Atlanta, it is doubtful that he will step foot on the field. According to the Colts team doctor, Harrison still has a considerable amount of inflammation in his knee. It would be a stretch to consider him healthy enough to be effective even if he does play. Unless something dramatic happens in the next 48 hours, consider Harrison a scratch, and do not start him. (Check injury report: knee)
WR – Anthony Gonzalez – It appears quite likely that Gonzalez will be starting this week opposite Reggie Wayne. Gonzalez, who has been out for the last few weeks with a thumb injury, has had a less than stellar rookie campaign, but the opportunity to start this week could turn things around for him. He has not achieved enough this season to be considered a strong start this week, but he could make for a nice emergency replacement in your line up. Keep expectations to a minimum, but a solid game is not out of the realm of possibilities under these circumstances.
TE – Dallas Clark – While Clark has had very little in the form of production since week 7; he remains a valuable commodity in the Colts passing game. In his defense, he did miss week 10 with a concussion, and Peyton Manning has struggled in recent weeks. The passing game should get back on track this week against Atlanta’s banged up defense, and Clark will likely be a big part of that. He is a slight liability for your starting line up, but the Falcons have trouble defending TE’s, and we like his chances. The only way you sit him is if you truly believe you have a better option.
Colts Defense – This defense took a big hit with the loss of pass rush specialist Dwight Freeney, but they are still a very solid unit. They didn’t skip a beat last week without Freeney, holding the Chiefs to a mere 10 points, granted the lack luster Kansas City offense does not pose a big threat. They match up against another struggling offense this week when they travel to Atlanta to face the Falcons. Despite missing their all pro DE, the Indy defense should be formidable, and make for a great start in week 12.
Atlanta
QB – Joey Harrington – He has officially been named as the Falcons starting QB against the Colts on Thanksgiving. Harrington has been very efficient in his last 2 games completing an impressive 76% of his passes with not a single interception. Unfortunately, efficiency does not translate well into the fantasy world. In the same 2 games, he failed to reach the 200 yard passing mark and only threw 1 TD per contest. There can be no argument that Harrington has played well the last 2 weeks, but he is still unreliable especially against the Colts 2nd ranked pass defense. He is not highly recommended for your starting lineup.
RB – Warrick Dunn – After 2 potent fantasy outings in a row, Dunn fell back into obscurity with a poor 32 yard rushing performance against Tampa. While he did catch 8 passes for 40 yards, his ineffectiveness in the running game shows a lack of reliability. Dunn will face a middle of the road rush defense in the Colts on Thanksgiving, but with Norwood back on the scene, keep expectations low. He had a great 2 week run, but it looks like the show is over. It may be time to put Dunn back on the shelf, as he is not highly regarded for week 12.
RB – Jerious Norwood – Norwood has minimal value as a fantasy RB for week 12. He only received 2 carries last week, and while he may contribute something in the return game, and has the potential to break a long run, Norwood is not worth the risk in week 12.
WR – Roddy White – White has had a couple of top flight fantasy performances this season, but otherwise, he has only been slightly above par. He has a chance any week Harrington is under center, but his lack of consistency, and ability to score, limits his potential in week 12 against a tough Colts secondary. White is no better than a #3 WR or flex play against Indy. If you like to gamble, White has proven to have high pay offs, but more often than not; he supplies average numbers.
WR – Michael Jenkins – He had a solid week 11 catching 9 passes for 73 yards. He also had a huge fantasy outing back in week 4. Otherwise, Jenkins has produced little to nothing. He would be a huge liability in your starting line up against the Colts. Jenkins is capable, but far from being worth the risk. Do not start him.
TE – Alge Crumpler – He was limited in practice on Tuesday, and is listed as questionable for Thursday’s game against Indianapolis with a foot injury. Crumpler has been hampered by injuries all season, and even when healthy, he has played well below his standards. If he plays, Crumpler is capable of a solid game, but with this offense in its current state and his foot being an issue; he is not a safe play. (Check injury report: foot)
Falcons Defense – The Colts offense may not be playing well of late, but neither has the Atlanta D. The Falcons lost both starting DT’s for the season, and were blown out by the Bucs last week, giving up 31 points. This defense could be in for another long game against Indy, and we suggest that you keep them far away from your starting roster in week 12.
Tuesday
Thanksgiving Day Fantasy Outlook (Jets @ Dallas)
Here's our look at who to start and who to bench on your fantasy football team during the Jets/Cowboys game.
NY JETS
QB – Kellen Clemens – Clemens was anything but spectacular in the Jets win over Pittsburgh on Sunday. While he did throw a TD, Clemens completed less than 50% of his passes for 162 yards, and he also threw a pick. Since replacing Chad Pennington as the starter, Clemens has thrown 5 interceptions compared to only 3 TD’s. He may be worth consideration in future seasons, but he should not be in your starting line up against a dangerous Cowboys defense in week 12.
RB – Thomas Jones – He surprised everyone Sunday by rushing for over 100 yards against the Steelers, who arguably have the best run defense in the NFL. Jones is a talented running back, but consistency is far from his strong suit. While he has shown the ability to produce in the yardage department from time to time, Jones has yet to find the end zone even once this season. He is best suited for the bench against the Dallas 4th ranked run D.
WR – Laveranues Coles – He suffered a high ankle sprain on the second play of Sunday’s game after hauling in a 56 yard reception off of a flea flicker. Coles did not return to the game. He did practice on a very limited basis on Tuesday, but he is not expected to play on Thanksgiving against Dallas. Coles would definitely be worth putting in your starting line up if healthy, but that does not appear to be the case. (Check injury report: ankle)
WR – Jerricho Cotchery – He is coming off of his worst game of the season posting only 1 catch for 5 yards. While he has shown promise throughout the season, Cotchery lacks consistency and the ability to find the end zone (only 1 TD this season). He should be the go to guy if Coles does not play, but Cotchery has actually posted better numbers with Coles in the line up. The Cowboys secondary is shaky, but their pass rush is fierce. In the unlikely case that Clemens has plenty of time to get the ball to him, Cotchery could have a solid day, but do not count on it. He only has moderate fantasy value for week 12.
WR – Brad Smith – He will likely get the start this week if Coles is out with injury. Smith should see some passes come his way, but he has little in the way of fantasy value, and should only be considered if you are in desperation mode.
TE – Chris Baker – He played a major role in last week’s upset of Pittsburgh, pulling in his 3rd TD catch of the season. Baker hauled in 4 catches total for 34 yards and the 1 TD grab for the game. There are no guarantees of him finding the end zone again this week, but he has increased his role in the offense again. While he is not considered an elite fantasy prospect at TE against the Cowboys, Baker could be a nice fill in replacement. Keep expectations low, but it would not be surprising if he had a solid game.
Jets Defense – While the Jets defense played solid against a pretty good Pittsburgh offense last week, they are far from a safe play in week 12. This defense ranks near the bottom in almost every defensive category (29th in total defense, 29th against the run, 21st against the pass, and 26th in scoring defense). Do not start the Jets defense against an explosive Cowboys attack on Thursday.
Dallas
QB – Tony Romo – In his last 3 contests, Romo has completed 73% of his passes for 864 yards and 11 TD’s. He should be able to slice and dice a very mediocre Jets secondary, and ranks only behind Tom Brady as this week’s top fantasy QB. Turkey, dressing, and the Romo to T.O. show will be the order of the day this Thanksgiving. He is a must start in any league.
RB – Marion Barber – He has really struggled in recent weeks scoring only 2 TD’s in his last 7 contests. In that same span, Barber is averaging a lousy 51 yards rushing per game. The match up against the Jets 29th ranked run defense is the best he has had in weeks, so this could be the week he breaks the slump, however the Jets run D broke out of a season long slump last week themselves, shutting down Willie Parker. Barber is a high risk-high reward player for week 12. He is probably worth the risk given the match up, unless you have what you believe to be a better option.
RB – Julius Jones – While this week’s match up against the Jets holds promise, Jones simply does not get enough carries to have much in the way of fantasy value. You are better off sitting him unless you are in desperate need of a starting RB.
WR – Terrell Owens – With the exception of Randy Moss, no fantasy WR has been more productive than T.O... He will be shooting for a 6th straight game with at least 1 TD, and a 5th straight with at least 6 receptions and 100 yards receiving. Owens is as close to a lock as you will get in week 12 as far as receivers go. You should start him with the utmost confidence against a shaky Jets secondary.
WR – Patrick Crayton – He has promise any given week, but Crayton is very inconsistent, and you gamble any time you put him in your starting line up. He has a favorable match up this week against the Jets, but he may not be able to make the start with a bum ankle on a short week of rest. He did not practice on Tuesday, and is listed as questionable for Thursday’s game. Even if he plays, Crayton will likely be limited and probably is not worth the risk. (Check injury report: ankle)
WR – Sam Hurd – He has done little, if anything, as far as fantasy production since week 1, but with Crayton likely out for Thursday’s game against the Jets, Hurd’s role in the offense should increase considerably. If that is the case, he may be worth considering picking up if you are in dire need of a receiver. Hurd has the tools to do some damage if he starts, but do not rely on it. Also, make sure Crayton is a definite scratch before considering Hurd for your starting line up.
TE – Jason Witten – He has matched his longest stretch of the season going 2 consecutive games without a TD catch. Witten has a good chance to end that streak against a pretty bad Jets defense in week 12. At the very least, he should provide solid numbers in the reception and yardage categories. Unless you are blessed with a better option, Witten is a no brainer for your starting line up.
Cowboys Defense – They should have little trouble containing the Jets offense this week. The Dallas secondary is shaky, but so is the Jets passing attack. The Cowboys front seven should be able to apply a ton of pressure all game, so sacks and turnovers are likely. They are one of the better defenses to have for week 12, and one you will likely be giving thanks for on Turkey Day.
* Players featured in Thursday games will not be included in weekly rankings, these are start/sit assesments for those players.
Friday
WEEK 11 QB RANKINGS
1. Tom Brady (NE) – In a week 4 match up against Buffalo, Brady threw for 311 yards and 4 TD’s. He is very capable of equaling or surpassing those numbers this week against that same Bills defense. Brady is a no brainer for your starting line up.
2. Tony Romo (DAL) – He has been lighting up opposing defenses all season long, but he has been particularly stellar over the last 2 weeks. Romo should have another huge outing against a shaky Redskin pass defense that ranks 22nd. Romo completed 24 passes for 284 yards, 2TD’s, and 0 interceptions in his one career start against Washington.
3. Brett Favre (GB) – Favre has been one of the hottest fantasy QB’s out there for most of the season. A trend that is likely to continue against Carolina’s average secondary in week 11.
4. Peyton Manning (IND) – He shocked everyone last week by throwing a career worst 6 interceptions, in what was undoubtedly the worst game he has ever played. If you could manage to somehow look past the ridiculous number of picks he threw, Manning’s numbers were not bad, as he managed to rally the Colts bare bones offense to a near comeback. It was an obvious fluke game for Manning, who is typically the most reliable fantasy QB in the NFL. He should bounce back nicely against the Chiefs 18th ranked pass defense this week.
5. Ben Roethlisberger (PIT) – “Big Ben” is easily having the best season of his career, and has turned into an unlikely fantasy giant. In his last 2 games, he has completed an astounding 36 of 50 passes for 487 yards, 7 TD’s, and only 1 interception. He should keep it rolling in week 11 against a bad Jets defense.
6. Drew Brees (NO) – He gave fantasy owners a big scare in the first half of last week’s game, but he was thankfully able to turn things around in the second half. While Brees has been red hot in recent weeks, it appears that there will be games that this offense will resort back to its early season bad form, but for the most part they are on the right page. Brees should pick up where he left off in the second half at Houston this week.
7. Carson Palmer (CIN) – Although Palmer has played well below his standards and pieced together a string of mediocre fantasy performances, he is still one of the better QB options out there. If the offensive line can get healthy, including pro bowl OT Willie Anderson, Palmer and the Bengals offense, should return to juggernaut status. Despite his recent struggles, Palmer will likely have a solid week 11 against an overrated Cardinals secondary.
8. Derek Anderson (CLE) – In an earlier meeting with Baltimore, Anderson completed 10 of 18 passes for 204 yards, 2 TD’s and 1 pick. A very mediocre performance compared to the rest of his season. The good news is that the earlier meeting with the Ravens was one of Anderson’s first starts, and he has come a long way since then. Also, the Ravens secondary is in much worse shape than they were in the week 4 version of this game. It is a road game this time, but we are confident that he will get the job done.
9. Eli Manning (NYG) – While Manning has had a recent stretch of poor fantasy outings, we expect him to bounce back in week 11. He faces the Lions and their 30th ranked pass defense. In addition, the Lions have played 2 other teams from the NFC East in Washington and Philadelphia. In those 2 games the Detroit secondary gave up a combined 629 yards with 6 TD’s and 0 interceptions. If Jason Campbell was able to torch this defense, Manning should be able to do the same. We like his chances.
10. Marc Bulger (STL) – This offense continues to get healthier with each passing week, and the on field performances in recent weeks are living proof that the Rams high powered attack is coming back to life. Bulger should have another strong performance this week against the Niners 21st ranked pass D. He threw for 368 yards, 1 TD and no interceptions against them in an earlier match up this season.
11. Matt Hasselbeck (SEA) – Hasselbeck does not have a very good track record against the Bears defense with 3 interceptions and only 1 TD in 2 career starts, but this is not the same Bears defense. The Chicago defense ranks 17th against pass this season, and they are pretty beat up as a whole. Hasselbeck should easily be able to improve on his career numbers against them in week 11.
12. Donovan McNabb (PHI) – McNabb had a monster week 10 throwing for a season high 4 TD’s, and on paper, this week’s match up against the winless Dolphins looks very promising. The problem is that the Dolphins have a very underrated pass defense that ranks 5th, meaning that the Eagles will likely spend much of the game running the ball against the Dolphins 30th ranked run defense. Translation, while we expect a very solid game for McNabb, he is unlikely to have the monster numbers the match up suggests.
13. Kurt Warner (ARI) – He was able to bounce back nicely in week 10 after a horrible showing in week 9. Warner will likely have another big week against a really bad Bengals defense that has given up the second most TD’s via the pass in the NFL with 20.
14. Jon Kitna (DET) – It appears as though the Lions pass happy approach may once again be in full effect for the Detroit offense. After averaging only 24 pass attempts per game in weeks 4 through 7 as the team looked more to the run, Kitna has averaged 37 attempts in weeks 8 through 10. He has 4 TD’s in his last 2 contests to show for it, as opposed to only 2, total, during weeks 4 through 7. While he faces a tough Giants defense, Kitna should be able to do some damage, but an interception or 2 is probably in the cards as well.
15. Jeff Garcia (TB) – Mr. Efficiency will be back in service this week after a much needed week off. Garcia has a solid history against this week’s opponent, and while he probably won’t wow you with his numbers, he should have a solid day against the Falcons.
16. Matt Schaub (HOU) – Schaub is finally healthy again, and he returns with a full complement of weapons for the first time since week 2, thanks to the return of star receiver Andre Johnson. Schaub was looking very good before things fell apart for this offense, and we see no reason why that should not be the case now, especially against a poor Saints pass defense this week. He could very well be the week 11 QB sleeper.
17. Jay Cutler (DEN) – Cutler faces a very tough Titans defense in week 11, but they are a defense that struggled last week without star DT Albert Haynesworth and pass rush specialist Travis LaBoy. LaBoy should be back, but Haynesworth is very questionable which bodes well for Cutler and the Denver offense. Cutler has not had a hugely successful season, but he has had his moments. He is not highly recommended for use in week 11.
18. Kyle Boller (BAL) – Boller takes over a Ravens offense that has been dreadful over the last few weeks. While he has a great match up against Cleveland and he should be much better than McNair, he is nothing more than an emergency fill in for week 11.
19. Phillip Rivers (SD) – Rivers is a very capable QB, but his numbers in recent weeks do not reflect that. The unpredictable gunslinger is becoming more predictable each week, but not for the better. He is too unreliable to start against anyone right now including the Jags 27th ranked pass defense. If you have the luxury, sit him until he proves himself worthy again.
20. David Garrard (JAC) – He will return this week after missing 3 games with an ankle injury. He faces a Chargers pass defense that ranks a lowly 25th, but as was evident last week against Peyton Manning, they are capable of multiple interceptions, and Garrard is no Peyton Manning. Sit Garrard this week until he can get his legs under him again. He is not flashy, but he is efficient and a decent option again down the road.
21. Jason Campbell (WAS) – He is coming off of a career best game last week, but he has been unreliable much of the season. Campbell has low to moderate value at best against the Cowboys.
22. Vince Young (TEN) – He showed something in the way of a passing game for the first time this season last week throwing for a season high 257 yards. Unfortunately, he also threw his 4th interception in his last 2 games. Young has the tools to get it done, just not on a regular basis. He is not a great option against Denver’s 8th ranked pass defense.
23. Daunte Culpepper (OAK) – Culpepper will jump back into the starting line up this week with an injury to Josh McCown. He has a very promising match up against the leagues worst pass defense in his former team, the Vikings, but Culpepper has not played well all season. He may be worth a shot given the match up, but we do not recommend him unless you are in a pinch.
24. Rex Grossman (CHI) – He is back, at least for a week. Grossman will make his first start since being benched in week 4. The match up holds promise against the Seahawks 20th ranked pass defense, but there is a reason why he was benched in the first place.
25. Kellen Clemens (NYJ) – He was not flashy in his last start, but he was efficient, throwing for 226 yards 1 TD and 0 interceptions. So far he has exceeded our expectations of him, but he still only holds moderate fantasy value at best. Clemens will face the NFL’s best defense in week 11, so we will find out for sure if he has what it takes. It is not the best week to have him in your line up against Pittsburgh.
* Other notable QB options for week 11 include (in order of rank): Byron Leftwich (ATL), J.P. Losman (BUF), Vinny Testaverde (CAR), Brodie Croyle (KC), Trent Dilfer (SF), Alex Smith (SF), John Beck (MIA), Tarvaris Jackson (MIN), David Carr (CAR), and Brian Griese (CHI)
WEEK 11 RB RANKINGS
1. Brian Westbrook (PHI) – He has posted monster fantasy numbers of late, especially in the passing game. Look for him to do it on the ground and as a receiver in week 11 against the Dolphins 30th ranked run defense. If his knee can hold out, Westbrook is a lock. (Check injury report: knee)
2. LaDainian Tomlinson (SD) –Although he continues to struggle by L.T. standards, he is still one of the best fantasy backs in the NFL. He has tough match up against the Jaguars in week 11, but he is capable of dominating any defense, and remains a must start. Tomlinson is well overdue for a huge game.
3. Joseph Addai (IND) – After a poor week 10 showing against the Chargers, expect Addai to bounce back in a big way against a mediocre Chiefs run defense. He should be confidently placed in your starting line up for week 11.
4. Willie Parker (PIT) – If Parker were the goal line back for the Steelers, he would be the top fantasy back for week 11, hands down. The fact that he only has 2 rushing TD’s on the season is the only thing limiting Parker’s fantasy value. On the bright side, he may not even need to be the goal line back to find the end zone this week against the Jets 32nd ranked run defense. Expect a ton of yards, and a long TD run is not out of the question. (Check injury report: hip)
5. Willis McGahee (BAL) – He enters Sunday’s game riding a 4 game TD streak. McGahee has a great match up against a horrible Browns run defense, and his TD streak is very likely be extended to 5 games, with over 100 yards rushing being a strong possibility as well.
6. Reggie Bush (NO) – Whether it’s on the ground or through the air, Bush always seems to find a way to keep fantasy owners happy on a weekly basis. He should have no problem extending those smiles in week 11 against the Texans 24th ranked run D.
7. Edgerrin James (ARI) – While James has not performed up to expectations of late, he should be able to right the ship in week 11. He faces a pathetic Bengals run defense, a defense in which James has torched for 5 TD’s in 3 career games.
8. Steven Jackson (STL) – Jackson appears to be back to full strength, and 2 TD’s in 2 games since returning from injury is a good indication of just that. He should handle the 49ers 25th ranked run defense with ease as the Rams offense also appears to be back on track as a whole.
9. Brandon Jacobs (NYG) – With a 5.3 yards per carry average, even the Lions 8th ranked run defense will have a lot of trouble slowing this bruiser down. Jacobs is one of the more consistent and reliable fantasy backs in the league, and he should be in your starting line up this week.
10. Chester Taylor (MIN) – With all the hoopla surrounding Adrian Peterson this season, Chester Taylor became little more than a fading memory to most fantasy owners. With Peterson out with a knee injury, Taylor will be thrust back into the spotlight. He should have a game worth remembering in week 11 against the Raiders and their 29th ranked run defense.
11. LenDale White (TEN) – Despite the return of Chris Brown this week, White will remain the premier back for the Titans. With the exception of last week, he has been a very solid fantasy back throughout the season. Expect White to bounce back with a nice effort against a Denver defense that gives up an average of 151 yards per game on the ground.
12. Clinton Portis (WAS) – In his last 2 games Portis has accumulated 333 rushing yards and a score. While Portis has a tough road to hoe against a stingy Cowboys run defense, he is playing at the top of his game right now, and is worthy of a starting spot in week 11.
13. Maurice Jones-Drew (JAC) – You never know exactly what Jones-Drew will give you any given week, but he is versatile and talented enough to have a big game against any opponent, including the Chargers and their 21st ranked run defense.
14. Ryan Grant (GB) – While he still has a ways to go before proving himself to be an elite fantasy back, Grant is off to a great start, and quickly headed in that direction. After two 100 yard games in 3 career starts, including a 119 yard, 1 TD effort last week against the Vikings 3rd ranked run defense, Grant is already making a strong case for himself. He should be able to continue the trend against a mediocre Panthers run defense.
15. Marion Barber (DAL) – After a poor week 10 showing, Barber should bounce back at home against Washington. He is a key member of the Cowboys offense, and will likely be a big part of the game plan against the Redskins in week11. Barber is averaging 5.1 yards per carry and has 6 TD’s in 9 games this season.
16. Frank Gore (SF) – Even though Gore has had a less than stellar ’07 campaign, he does have a very strong track record against the Rams. Gore has scored at least 1 TD in his last 4 games against them, totaling 6. He was able to find pay dirt twice against the St. Louis defense back in week 2. Despite the tough season, Gore should be able to conquer the Rams again given his rich history against them. (Check injury report: ankle)
17. Earnest Graham (TB) – Graham rushed for 124 yards and a score in his last game, and has a great match up against Atlanta’s 23rd ranked run defense. He may lose a few carries this week with the return of Michael Pittman, but he is still the main man in the Bucs running attack. (Check injury report: ankle)
18. Kevin Jones (DET) – Despite rumors that Jones is still bothered by a foot injury he sustained against the Cardinals last week, he is not listed on the injury report, and appears ready to go against the Giants on Sunday. It will be a tough match up, but Jones has proven to be a worthy fantasy RB. Barring any setbacks with the foot, he should be able to continue his solid play, which includes 5 TD’s in 7 games played.
19. Selvin Young (DEN) – It is once again unclear what the status of Travis Henry will be on Monday night, but as of right now, you should anticipate that Young will get the start. Despite what looks to be a scary match up for him, the Titans will be without run stuffing DT Albert Haynesworth, which by the looks of last week, really affects their ability to stop the run. If Young is in fact the starter, he could have another strong game, but be sure to check on Henry’s status before giving Young the nod.
20. Laurence Maroney (NE) – Maroney has had a very disappointing season to those of you who drafted him and had such high hopes. While he has been plagued by injury, he has yet to produce much even when healthy. Maroney has a good match up against Buffalo this week, but his value all depends on how much the Patriots need his services. To this point that has been very little, although Maroney did rush for 103 yards against the Bills in an earlier meeting this season.
21. Jesse Chatman (MIA) – Since replacing Ronnie Brown, Chatman has done a pretty good job filling his shoes. He is coming off of a 124 yard game, and has pieced together 3 solid fantasy efforts in a row. Chatman will have his hands full this week against the Eagles 12th ranked run defense, but with the return of Ricky Williams eminent, he will be playing extra hard to maintain his starting role.
22. Warrick Dunn (ATL) – Everyone had pretty much given up on him, but with the absence of Jerious Norwood, Dunn has come alive with full force. He has posted 2 great fantasy performances in a row, and a 3rd appears very possible against a Tampa Bay run defense that ranks 18th. While he remains a risk given his stat line for the season as a whole, Dunn is on a roll, and you may end up kicking yourself if you pass him over in week 11.
23. Maurice Morris (SEA) – He may not be the stud that Shaun Alexander once was, but he has proven to be an effective fantasy back. Morris rushed for 87 yards and a score last week, and he will more than likely get his second straight start this week. The match up bodes pretty well against the Bears 26th ranked run defense. Be sure to check on Alexander’s status before starting Morris.
24. Priest Holmes (KC) – As expected, Holmes looked very little like the super star we are all used to seeing, but he did manage to produce 79 total yards, which is not too bad for a guy that has not played in 2 years. He will face a middle of the road Colts run defense in week 11 that will be without Dwight Freeney and Anthony McFarland. While you should not expect a lot from Holmes in week 11, he should muster up a decent effort.
25. Rudi Johnson (CIN) – While Johnson has done little to nothing for fantasy owners this season, this could be the week he turns it around. He faces an Arizona run defense that ranks 13th in yards allowed, but they do not play well on the road, and give up a lot of TD’s on the ground. He is still a very risky start until he proves himself worthy.
26. Cedric Benson (CHI) – Despite the fact that Benson was able to find the end zone last week, he struggled to gain yards on the ground. He faces Seattle’s top 10 run defense in week 11, so keep expectations low, or look for a better option if you are afforded the luxury.
27. DeShaun Foster (CAR) – He has struggled throughout much of his ’07 campaign, only sporting a couple of nice fantasy performances. Things will likely get worse for Foster this week as he matches up against the Packers 7th ranked run defense. Do not expect much.(Check injury report: toe)
28. Justin Fargas (OAK) – He has proven to have great potential with a couple of great fantasy outings to show for it, but with all of his upside, Fargas will likely be held in check this week against one of the league’s best run defenses in Minnesota.
29. Jamal Lewis (CLE) – In an earlier meeting against Baltimore, Lewis rushed for 64 yards and a TD. While he did have that monster 4 TD game in week 9, he has struggled to gain yards. Expect that struggle to continue against his former team in week 11. If you choose to start him, pray for a touch down, because yards will not come easy.
30. Fred Taylor (JAC) – Taylor managed to hit pay dirt for the first time this season in week 10. In spite of the nice week, Taylor has failed to gain significant yardage all season, and is not reliable enough to be considered anything more than an emergency fill in against the Chargers. 31. Thomas Jones (NYJ) – The only thing keeping Jones in the rankings this week is the fact that he is a starter that gets the vast majority of his team’s carries. With a horrible week 11 match up against the Steelers top ranked defense, he should be given little consideration when setting your starting line up.
32. Ahman Green (HOU) – (update: out for week 11) Despite only 8 carries and a bum knee, Green managed to find the end zone last week. While he should start this week and see more than 8 carries, he will likely give up a large number of carries to Ron Dayne. He will face a decent Saints run defense, and with his health still in question, Green is a very risk start for week 11. (Check injury report: knee)
33. Julius Jones (DAL) – Jones is nothing more than an emergency fill in against Washington this week.
34. Chris Brown (TEN) – He will be back after missing 4 games with an ankle sprain. While he will be limited to mop up duty for LenDale White, Brown has the potential to do some damage even in a limited role, especially against a run defense as poor as Denver’s. He is a risky start.
35. Anthony Thomas (BUF) – With Marshawn Lynch sidelined with injury, Thomas will be the likely starter for Buffalo in week 11. Unfortunately, they play New England, and Thomas will almost certainly split carries with Dwayne Wright. Unless you are banking on an unlikely TD or desperate, Thomas is not worth starting.
* Other potential options for consideration in week 11 include (in order of rank): Travis Henry (DEN) – start if healthy, check injury report: knee, Shaun Alexander – use caution even if he is cleared to play, check injury report: knee, Ron Dayne (HOU) - update: likely to start, Kevin Faulk (NE), Kenny Watson (CIN), DeAngelo Williams (CAR), Dwayne Wright (BUF), Najeh Davenport (PIT), Kenton Keith (IND), and Ruben Droughns (NYG)
WEEK 11 WR RANKINGS (Who to start)
1. Randy Moss (NE) – He torched the Buffalo secondary in an earlier meeting posting 5 catches for 115 yards and 2 TD’s. Moss has at least 1 TD in 8 of 9 starts, with 4 multiple TD games. He leads the NFL with 12 TD grabs on the season, and should be well rested after the bye week. He is simply the best fantasy WR in the league.
2. Terrell Owens (DAL) – He has been a monster of late, posting at least 1 TD in his last 4 games and at least 100 receiving yards in his last 3 games. In total, Owens has 29 catches for 468 yards and 5 TD’s in his last 4 contests. He should continue to terrorize opposing secondaries including the Redskins in week 11.
3. Reggie Wayne (IND) – With or without Marvin Harrison, Wayne is a premier fantasy WR. He is a solid choice for your starting line up this week against the Chiefs 19th ranked pass defense. Expect another big game from Wayne in week 11.
4. Larry Fitzgerald (ARI) – He is coming off of a 2 TD performance against Detroit, and this week’s match up against a horrible Bengals secondary looks equally promising. Fitzgerald is clearly the go to guy in the Cards passing game right now. You should start him with confidence.
5. Braylon Edwards (CLE) – In 3 career games versus Baltimore, Edwards has accumulated 13 catches for 281 yards and 3 TD’s. He has never failed to find pay dirt against the Ravens defense, and this is his most promising match up ever against them as their secondary is bare bones due to injury or illness.
6. T.J. Houshmandzadeh (CIN) – He failed to find the end zone for the very first time last week. You could not expect him to hit pay dirt every game, and 8 out of 9 is matched only by Randy Moss. While the return of Chris Henry will cut into his production a bit, he is still the go to guy and a fantasy stud. He faces a tough Cardinals secondary this week, but he is talented enough to come out on top.
7. Plaxico Burress (NYG) – He has been limited of late due to recurring soreness in his injury plagued ankle, and it has shown on the field. Burress has a great match up this week against a very shaky Lions secondary. If the ankle is up to the task, Burress could rebound with a monster game. We like his chances. (Check injury report: ankle)
8. Torry Holt (STL) – In his last 2 contests, Holt has 14 catches for 234 yards and a score. The Rams offense appears to be back on track with Holt as the primary beneficiary. He has a great history against San Francisco, and had 5 catches for 74 yards and a TD in a week 2 match up with the Niners. If his sore knee is not an issue, Holt stands to have a big afternoon. (Check injury report: knee)
9. Wes Welker (NE) – In his last 4 games, Welker has accumulated 6 TD’s, and is looking for his 5th consecutive game with a score. He is a very solid start against a poor Bills secondary.
10. Marques Colsten (NO) – In his last 3 games he has averaged 9 catches, 124 yards, and a TD per game. As long as Drew Brees continues to look for him first, Colsten is a top end fantasy prospect. Expect the hot streak to continue against a shaky Houston secondary.
11. Roy Williams (DET) – Williams was able to bounce back from several mediocre outings, with a 6 catch 2 TD performance in week 10. He faces a Giants secondary that was lit up by T.O. last week, and Williams shares similar attributes with Owens. He is quite capable of a comparable performance in week 11.
12. Santonio Holmes (PIT) – While he had a below par week 10, Holmes has played very well overall in recent weeks. He has a great chance to restore his top flight fantasy status this week against a weak Jets secondary.
13. Chad Johnson (CIN) – Johnson continues to post very average numbers by his standards. He is well overdue for a breakout game, and while the Cardinals secondary can be tough, Johnson has the tools to get the job done. This could be the week Ocho Cinco returns. (Check injury report: knee)
14. Greg Jennings (GB) – He may not get the number of targets that other top fantasy wide outs get, but Jennings seems to make the most out of every catch. In 7 starts this season, Jennings has produced 6 TD’s and averages 19 yards per catch.
15. Joey Galloway (TB) – In his last 2 contests against Atlanta, Galloway has accumulated 14 catches for 225 yards. This deep threat is always a contender to find pay dirt, and has a touch down in 3 of his last 4 games. He should have another solid game in week 11.
16. Hines Ward (PIT) – Since returning from injury, Ward has 26 catches and 3 TD’s in 4 games. He should easily be able to continue his recent run of success this week against the Jets, and their 24th ranked pass defense.
17. Andre Johnson (HOU) – He will finally return this week after missing much of the season. While Johnson has only played in 2 games this season, he was phenomenal in both, compiling 14 catches for 262 yards and 3 TD’s. If there are no set backs with his knee, Johnson could easily be the top fantasy performer for week 11. Since it is his first game back, there could be a little rust to knock off, which is the only thing keeping him out of the top 5. Despite a slight risk, Johnson is well worth putting in your starting line up, and should help your team tremendously from here on out. The match up against a very shaky New Orleans secondary does not hurt either.
18. Donald Driver (GB) – While Driver has not had the season many fantasy owners expected, he remains the most dangerous weapon in Brett Favre’s arsenal. He has been a victim of a Packers offense that spreads the ball around to multiple receivers, but he is still a top target, and very capable of a huge game any week. At the very least, he will make a decent contribution, more than can be guaranteed by most WR’s.
19. Laveranues Coles (NYJ) – Coles will be back this week after missing a game with a concussion. He has a tough match up against Pittsburgh, but he has had a very solid season to this point, and is the best weapon in the Jets arsenal. Despite the poor match up, Coles should see plenty of looks, and has the talent to have a solid game.
20. Brandon Marshall (DEN) – Despite his inability to find the end zone, Marshall is one of the more consistent fantasy performers. He puts up very solid numbers each week, and remains the Broncos go to guy. He only has 2 TD’s on the season, but he is capable of scoring any week.
21. D.J. Hackett (SEA) – In his 2 games since returning from injury, Hackett has been Hasselbeck’s favorite target, catching 14 passes for 159 yards and 2 TD’s. With the return of Deion Branch this week, and the fact that Hasselbeck likes to spread the wealth, it is kind of hard to say which Seahawk receiver will have the best week 11, but Hackett appears to be the most likely candidate. He should get more than enough attention in the passing game to do some damage.
22. Anquan Boldin (ARI) – He has not quite been himself since returning from injury. He did have a 2 TD game against the Redskins, but he only had 29 yards receiving in doing so, and has yet to surpass the 40 yard mark in his last 3 contests. Boldin is a very talented receiver, and while he is obviously still bothered by his hip injury, he should be able to conjure up some success this week against the Bengals 28th ranked pass defense.
23. Deion Branch (SEA) – He will be back in his familiar starting role after missing several weeks with a foot injury. Branch should be utilized early and often in the Seahawks pass happy attack this week against a very average Bears secondary.
24. Dwayne Bowe (KC) – He was able to bounce back with a solid 9 catch 105 yard performance last week after being shut out in week 9. Bowe may not be the most dependable fantasy WR out there, but he has huge potential. There are some risks involved with starting Bowe in week 11. The first being that he will be working with a new QB in Brodie Croyle, and the second being that he faces a solid Colts pass defense. Despite these potential stumbling blocks, Bowe is talented enough to get the job done.
25. Marvin Harrison (IND) - Like every week since his knee injury, Harrison is unlikely to play. If he is in the starting line up for week 11, he would only be a decent option as he will likely be limited in the number of reps he receives. You are best served to assume that Harrison will not be available for use against the Chiefs, but check his status before Sunday’s game to be sure. (Check injury report: knee)
26. Steve Smith (CAR) – If Testaverde is named the starter this week, you should probably have a fair amount of confidence in starting him. If not, he is a big gamble with Carr under center. The match up against a mediocre, 19th ranked Packers secondary is a favorable one, but Smith has yet to practice this week with a shin injury. You should make sure to check on his availability this week, and proceed with caution in starting him. (Check injury report: shin)
27. Jerricho Cotchery (NYJ) – If the Steelers secondary decides to double team Laveranues Coles this week (as many teams do), Cotchery could benefit greatly. If not, he is still a very solid receiver capable of putting up very good numbers. Cotchery has not come up huge in the scoring department this season, but he has been very consistent. A trend that should continue in week 11.
28. Donte Stallworth (NE) – He is certainly not as consistent as fantasy owners would like him to be, but he has big game potential. Stallworth was limited in a previous meeting with the Bills, but he is now a bigger part of the Patriots game plan, and could explode against Buffalo’s 26th ranked pass defense. He is a gamble, but we believe it is a risk worth taking.
29. Lee Evans (BUF) – While Evans has undoubtedly turned his season around in a big way, he may be a risky start for week 11. He faces a very good Patriots defense that held him to 1 catch for 7 yards in an earlier meeting. Evans has played at a much higher level as of late, and you should certainly expect more from him this time around, but do not expect a monster game by any means.
30. Chris Chambers (SD) – With the San Diego offense struggling since his arrival, Chambers’ numbers have suffered. It is only a matter of time before Phillip Rivers and the Chargers offense gets back on track, and Chambers stands to benefit greatly. This could very well be the week against a Jacksonville pass defense that ranks 27th.
31. Chris Henry (CIN) – Henry had a very solid first week back from his suspension catching 4 balls for 99 yards. He is a dangerous addition to an already potent Bengals passing game. He should have another solid effort against the Cardinals in week 11.
32. Bobby Engram (SEA) – Engram will likely fall back into his #3 slot position with the return of Hackett and Branch. While he is likely to see a reduction in his looks and touches, Engram remains a valuable and capable part of the Seahawks passing game. Even as the #3 guy, Engram could easily be Seattle’s top receiver against the Bears in week 11.
33. Patrick Crayton (DAL) – Crayton remains a high risk – high reward fantasy starter. It is very difficult to gauge what he will do with any certainty. Much of his success and lack there of, depends heavily on the amount of attention the opposing defense pays to Terrell Owens. With Owens on a hot streak, expect the Redskins to pay close attention, which should open the door for Crayton in week 11.
34. Roddy White (ATL) – White continues to post decent numbers on a consistent basis. He has a difficult match up against Ronde Barber and the Bucs secondary, but he should be targeted early and often as usual. He is over due to find the end zone, so a TD is not out of the question for him in week 11.
35. Bernard Berrian (CHI) – He is coming off of a very nice week in which he scored his 2nd TD of the season. Berrian has a good match up in week 11 against a very mediocre Seahawks secondary that ranks 20th, so a repeat of last week is a possibility. At worst, he should provide a decent stat line.
36. Kevin Curtis (PHI) – While the Dolphins defense is horrible as a whole, they do have a very solid secondary that ranks 5th in the NFL. Curtis may have a difficult time finding space in week 11, but he is a deep threat and very capable of taking the long ball to the house.
37. Shaun McDonald (DET) – He is one of the more under rated and overlooked fantasy performers of the ’07 season. He has 5 or more receptions in 6 of his 9 games this season and has a TD in 4 of 9 games. McDonald is not a lock by any means, but he should make another solid contribution in week 11.
38. Ronald Curry (OAK) – He has done very little as of late, but Curry has a very favorable match up against the NFL’s worst pass defense. He could step back into the spotlight in week 11 against the Vikings.
39. Reggie Brown (PHI) – After a horrible start to the ’07 season, Brown has posted decent numbers. He has really stepped up in the Eagles passing game, but he faces a 5th ranked Miami pass defense in week 11. If McNabb continues to get him the ball, he could have a productive fantasy outing, but there is no guarantee of that. The Eagles will likely spend much of the game running the football.
40. Derrick Mason (BAL) – The Baltimore passing game has really struggled of late and Mason has felt the effects more than anyone. The return of a healthy Mark Clayton has also had an effect on the veteran wide out’s production. Mason looks to rebound this week with Kyle Boller under center, but that is not a big upgrade for this fading offense. Mason does have a great match up against an awful Browns secondary, and he did have 10 catches for 78 yards against them in an earlier meeting, but Mason and this offense are in a completely different place then they were in week 4.
41. Isaac Bruce (STL) – With the apparent resurgence of the Rams offense, Bruce should return to old form. He is coming off of his second best fantasy performance of the season with 4 catches for 62 yards and a TD. Bruce is a TD threat any week with this offense in gear. He has a good match up against a somewhat poor 49ers pass defense. (Check injury report: hamstring)
42. Calvin Johnson (DET) – While he has the potential to explode any given week, Johnson’s fantasy stock has dropped after 3 consecutive mediocre games in a row. He is one of those guys that will do very little, but as soon as you bench him, he goes off, and you end up kicking yourself for benching him. The match up is decent this week, but with a multitude of potential targets in the Lions passing game, Johnson may get lost in the shuffle once again.
43. Ike Hilliard (TB) – Hilliard has had a nice season to this point, and has a team leading 46 receptions to prove it. Unfortunately, he has only found the end zone one time this season which really limits his fantasy value. He has a decent match up against a shaky Falcons defense in week 11.
44. Brandon Stokley (DEN) – After 3 fairly productive fantasy weeks in a row, Stokley’s numbers took a hit in week 10. He will look to rebound against the Titans on Monday night.
45. Mark Clayton (BAL) – He appears to be completely healthy for the first time this season and last week’s 8 catch 107 yard performance proved it. He even took center stage over fellow WR Derrick Mason, who has been a solid fantasy performer in his own right. Clayton may be just what the Ravens offense needs to get a jumpstart after struggling big time in the last few weeks. He has a great match up against a pathetic Browns secondary and a new QB in Kyle Boller. Clayton may be this week’s big sleeper.
46. Drew Bennett (STL) – After being beat up for much of the season, Bennett has put together 2 solid efforts in a row, even finding the end zone in week 10. With the Rams offense once again firing on at least 7 cylinders, Bennett should see plenty of attention again this week at San Fran.
47. Mike Furrey (DET) – Like the rest of the Lions receivers, it is really a guessing game as to what he will do any given week, but he has had several somewhat productive games throughout the season. He probably will not provide huge numbers this week against the Giants, but he will almost certainly produce something.
48. Muhsin Muhammad (CHI) – He has been an all or nothing fantasy performer throughout the season which makes him very risky as a starter. Muhammad faces a very mediocre Seattle pass defense in week 11, and he could produce one of his better games, but let it be known that you are gambling by inserting him into your starting line up.
49. David Patten (NO) – While Patten has a decent week 11 match up against the Texans, he has proven to be extremely inconsistent. He has also proven that he can have a big game any week, but you can never just expect it. Proceed with caution when using Patten.
50. Amani Toomer (NYG) – While Toomer has only had 2 or 3 fantasy performances worth mentioning this season, we like his chances in week 11. With Burress having trouble making plays on his bad wheel, Toomer could easily become the go to guy against a poor Lions secondary that has been torched by the only 2 NFC East teams they have faced this season. It’s a risky proposition, but one that could very well pay off.
* Other WR’s worth consideration for week 11 include (in ranked order): Jerry Porter (OAK), Kevin Walter (HOU), Arnaz Battle (SF), James Jones (GB), Santana Moss (WAS), Eddie Kennison (KC), Andre Davis (HOU), Joe Jurevicius (CLE), Antwaan Randle El (WAS), Craphonso Thorpe (IND), Justin Gage (TEN), Devery Henderson (NO),Vincent Jackson (SD), Marty Booker (MIA), Nate Washington (PIT), Nate Burleson (SEA), Dennis Northcutt (JAC), Ted Ginn (MIA), James Thrash (WAS), Keenan McCardell (WAS), Reggie Williams (JAC), Brandon Jones (TEN), Roydell Williams (TEN), Bobby Wade (MIN), Darrell Jackson (SF), Josh Cribbs (CLE), Bryant Johnson (ARI), Derek Hagan (MIA), Aaron Moorehead (IND), and Lance Moore (NO)
WEEK 11 TE RANKINGS
1. Antonio Gates (SD)
2. Jason Witten (DAL)
3. Kellen Winslow (CLE)
4. Jeremy Shockey (NYG)
5. Dallas Clark (IND)
6. Tony Gonzalez (KC)
7. Heath Miller (PIT)
8. Chris Cooley (WAS)
9. Donald Lee (GB) – (Check injury report: ribs)
10. Ben Watson (NE)
11. Vernon Davis (SF)
12. Alge Crumpler (ATL)
13. Tony Scheffler (DEN) – (Check injury report: chest)
14. Greg Olsen (CHI)
15. Owen Daniels (HOU)
16. Eric Johnson (NO)
17. L.J. Smith (PHI)
18. Leonard Pope (ARI)
19. Jeff King (CAR)
20. Desmond Clark (CHI)
21. Randy McMichael (STL)
22. Quinn Sypniewski (BAL) – only if Todd Heap does not play which appears likely
23. Bo Scaife (TEN)
24. David Martin (MIA)
25. Zach Miller (OAK)
* Other notable TE’s for week 11 include (in order of rank): Todd Heap (BAL) – check injury report: thigh, a must start if healthy, but it looks doubtful that he will play., Marcus Pollard (SEA), Alex Smith (TB), Marcedes Lewis (JAC), Chris Baker (NYJ), Matt Spaeth (PIT), Robert Royal (BUF), Visanthe Shiancoe (MIN), Bryan Fletcher (IND), and Will Heller (SEA),
WEEK 11 DEFENSE RANKINGS
1. Pittsburgh (@NYJ)
2. New England (@BUF)
3. Green Bay (CAR)
4. Seattle (CHI)
5. Philadelphia (MIA)
6. Minnesota (OAK)
7. Dallas (WAS)
8. Tampa Bay (@ATL)
9. NY Giants (@DET)
10. Tennessee (@DEN)
11. Indianapolis (KC)
12. Jacksonville (SD)
13. San Diego (@JAC)
14. Oakland (@MIN)
15. St. Louis (@SF)
16. Chicago (@SEA)
17. Denver (TEN)
18. Detroit (NYG)
19. Baltimore (CLE)
20. New Orleans (@HOU)
21. Arizona (@CIN)
22. Miami (@PHI)
23. Atlanta (TB)
24. Carolina (@GB)
25. Cleveland (@BAL)
26. San Francisco (STL)
27. Washington (@DAL)
28. Houston (NO)
29. Kansas City (@IND)
30. Cincinnati (ARI)
31. NY Jets (PIT)
32. Buffalo (NE)
Thursday
Brett Favre Leads Pro Bowl Voting
Green Bay Packers quarterback Brett Favre leads all NFL players in balloting for the 2008 Pro Bowl with 458,837 votes, according to the NFL.
With fan voting ending Dec. 11, Favre is followed by Colts QB Peyton Manning (441,852 votes), Patriots QB Tom Brady (440,354 votes), Patriots wide receiver Randy Moss (342,250 votes), and Cowboys QB Tony Romo (319,959 votes) for the most votes.
To date, there have been 35 million votes cast on NFL.com and on wireless phones with Sprint service using more than 873,000 ballots.
Pro Bowl teams will be announced at 4 p.m. (ET) on Dec. 18 during a special NFL Total Access 2008 NFL Pro Bowl Selection Show on the NFL Network. The Pro Bowl will be played at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu, Hawaii, on Feb. 10 and will be televised by FOX.
The AFC and NFC All-Star squads are made up of the consensus votes of fans, players and coaches. Each group’s vote counts one-third toward determining the 43-man rosters that represent the American Football Conference and National Football Conference in the Pro Bowl. NFL players and coaches will cast their votes Dec. 13-14.
Monday
Friday
WEEK 10 QB RANKINGS
1. Peyton Manning (IND) – While Manning has been good over the last few weeks, he has not played up to his normal standards without Marvin Harrison in the line up. He should gradually start playing like the Peyton of old, and this week against the Chargers 24th ranked pass defense will be a good place to start. If you have him; you have to ask yourself this question; who would I start over him in week 10? Unless you are completely clueless (which is not possible if you are on this website), the answer is no one.
2. Drew Brees (NO) – It took him a while, but it appears that Brees has brought the Saints high powered passing attack back from the dead. Frankenbrees, as he should be called, has been on a tear of late, putting up numbers that would almost make Tom Brady envious. This week’s match up against the Rams should turn into a battle through the air, so expect more of the same in week 10.
3. Brett Favre (GB) – After 17 seasons in the NFL, Favre has proven that he can still get it done. At the age of 38, he is having one of his best seasons ever in a long and storied career. He is also recognized as a top flight fantasy QB, and he should again prove why when he takes the field against the Vikings and their 31st ranked pass defense in week 10. In a week 4 meeting with Minnesota, Favre completed 32 passes for 344 yards, 2 TD’s, and 0 interceptions. He is a must start.
4. Tony Romo (DAL) – Romo flat out embarrassed the Giants defense in week 1, throwing for 345 yards and 4 TD’s. While the Giants defense has improved dramatically since that time, they are still no match for Romo, and the Cowboys high powered attack. A week 1 repeat is probably unlikely, but certainly not out of the question.
5. Ben Roethlisberger (PIT) – He has been torching opposing defenses as of late, throwing 11 TD’s in his last 3 games. Roethlisberger should have little trouble continuing his masterful play against a Browns pass defense that ranks as the worst in the NFL. He should have a monster game.
6. Carson Palmer (CIN) – You know it’s going to be a good week for QB’s when Carson Palmer ranks all the way down at 6, and if Tom Brady were playing, he would be at 7. Typically, a match up against the Ravens would be scary thought for Palmer and fantasy owners alike, but with the Baltimore secondary depleted by injury and illness, Palmer should have little to worry about. If Ben Roethlisberger could destroy the Ravens the way he did, Palmer is more than capable of doing the same.
7. Eli Manning (NYG) – He has typically been hit or miss throughout the season. Fortunately, his biggest hit came in an earlier meeting against this week’s opponent, where Manning threw for over 300 yards and 4 TD’s. This time around, Manning will face the Cowboys at home, and he has historically played well against them, even in seasons past. He should have a solid game.
8. Matt Hasselbeck (SEA) – While he has not been spectacular, Hasselbeck has been a consistent and solid fantasy QB throughout the season. He should continue that tradition in week 10 against the Niners. Do not expect a huge game, but he is definitely worthy of a start.
9. Marc Bulger (STL) – Bulger has by far had the worst season of his career to this point, disappointing Rams fans and fantasy owners alike. In his defense, the Rams offense has been dismantled by injuries throughout the season, a plague that has not escaped the gunslinger himself. As the Rams offense continues to reassemble piece by piece, you should see this offense slowly come back to life. They are actually already showing signs of a resurgence. While Bulger is risky in week 10, and likely to throw a couple of picks, he should otherwise be able to put up big numbers against a shaky Saints secondary. The potential is there for plenty of yards, TD’s, and yes, interceptions, but he may be worth the gamble.
10. Derek Anderson (CLE) – While Anderson has been stellar throughout the season, he faces the biggest test of his young career when he faces the Steelers top ranked defense in week 10. While this game will prove to be a huge challenge, Anderson has been tested by great defenses already this season, and proven to be up to the challenge. This will not be one of his better outings, but unless you have the luxury of a better option this week, he is your man.
11. Donovan McNabb (PHI) – McNabb has had a season of ups and downs, with more downs than ups, but the thought of benching him in favor of rookie Kevin Kolb seems ridiculous to us. He may not be the McNabb of old, but he is more than capable of leading this team than a rookie. For now, McNabb is still the starter, and while you should not expect anything huge fantasy wise this week, he should have a quality outing. Washington’s pass defense comes in ranked 19th, and McNabb threw for 240 yards against them in an earlier meeting.
12. Kurt Warner (ARI) – Only one word can describe Warner’s week 9 performance against the Bucs, ugly. He should bounce back nicely this week against the Lions 30th ranked pass defense, but keep your expectations on the moderate side.
13. Jon Kitna (DET) – After a 3 week drought without a TD pass, Kitna was able to find pay dirt twice against the Broncos last week. It is clear that this offense is intent on the transition from a pass happy to a run happy, and that should be evident once again in week 10. Kitna will face an Arizona pass defense that ranks an impressive 7th in the NFL, so while a big game is possible, it is unlikely.
14. Jay Cutler (DEN) – Before being knocked out of last week’s beat down at the hands of the Lions, Cutler was off to a 3 of 4 start for 20 yards. He should be back to near full strength this week, and can not shoulder any of the blame for last week’s let down. He faces a mediocre Kansas City pass defense that ranks 19th, so he should put up decent numbers in week 10. (Check injury report: ankle)
15. Phillip Rivers (SD) – First of all, our apologies to those of you who drafted him. Rivers continues to be a total mystery to the fantasy world. Week after week, he does the unexpected, no matter what the match up or odds of probability. He is without question the most difficult fantasy QB to analyze. The best we can do with Rivers is to suggest the opposite of what is expected. Since he is playing the Colts 3rd ranked pass defense in week 10, he will probably have great game, but you never know with him. Best of luck, you will need it.
16. J.P. Losman (BUF) – Losman had a decent week 9, and will be the starter again this week at Miami. In 3 career games vs. the Dolphins, Losman has thrown for 507 yards, 7 TD’s, and only 1 interception. Despite the fact that the Miami pass defense comes in ranked a misleading, yet impressive 6th, Losman could be in store for a nice game. That is if history repeats itself, which it has a tendency to do.
17. Brian Griese (CHI) – He is far from the best QB option out there this week, and he faces a tough Raiders secondary in week 10. The good news is that he has had 2 weeks to prepare, and as a student of the game, that should help a lot. Griese is still better suited for the bench this week, if you have that luxury.
18. Joey Harrington (ATL) – He had a monster game in an earlier meeting with this week’s opponent throwing for 361 yards 2 TD’s and 0 interceptions. While the match up is once again appealing, the offensive line has since been depleted by injury, and this offense is not firing on all cylinders. This may be the week he gets back on track, but by the look of things, odds are against it. He might make for a nice bye week fill in.
19. Damon Huard (KC) – Huard has been far from impressive in his ability to run a very boring Chiefs offense, but considering what he has to work with, and run of the mill play calling, he has done an admirable job. He faces a tough Denver secondary this week, but could have fair numbers, as the Broncos defense seems to be taking a nose dive as of late.
20. Steve McNair (BAL) – He was nothing short of terrible last week against Pittsburgh, and while this week’s match up against Cincinnati appears promising, McNair is better left on the bench. He should rebound to some extent, but he should not be considered for your starting line up unless you are in desperate need of a starting QB for week 10.
21. Vinny Testaverde (CAR) – He will almost certainly be under center this week when the Panthers take the field against Atlanta. While Testaverde only has 1 start under his belt this season, he has proven to be of some value to needy fantasy owners. He could have a decent outing against a very average Atlanta secondary, but until he can prove to be consistent, he is better suited for fill in duty.
22. Jason Campbell (WAS) – He has seen his fantasy production dwindle down to near nothing as of late. While he is looking at a decent match up against the Eagles 21st ranked pass defense, he will enter the game with no real option at WR due to injuries. He is nothing more than an emergency option this week.
23. Vince Young (TEN) – While Young offers some fantasy value with his running ability, he is still little more than a bye week fill in for week 10. He knows how to win games on the football field, but Stevie Wonder has a better shot of hitting an open receiver. Unless Young can start scoring on the ground on a consistent basis, he is not worth the trouble.
24. Cleo Lemon (MIA) – All things considered, Lemon has done a good job of leading the Miami offense. Unfortunately, that does not translate into the fantasy world. He has a great match up against the Bills 29th ranked pass defense, but he just does not have the weapons at his disposal to take full advantage of it. He may be considered for deep leagues as a decent bye week replacement.
25a. Josh McCown (OAK) – He returned to the starting line up last week with a not so warm welcome, and not just by the fans. McCown served up 3 picks and completed less than 50% of his passes. He should have a better go of it this week against the Bears 22nd ranked pass defense, but he is really not worth much consideration.
25b. David Garrard (JAC) – While it is probably 50-50 that he will play this week, he is probably not a good option. Garrard relies heavily on his mobility, and with the Titans fierce pass rush coming at him, that does not bode well. There is also a risk of re injuring the ankle. He has been a surprisingly solid fantasy QB this season, but he is not worth the hassle in week 10. (Check injury report: ankle)
* Other potential QB options for week 10 include: Alex Smith (SF), Brooks Bollinger (MIN), Tarvaris Jackson (MIN) - CHECK INJURY REPORT, Quinn Gray (JAC), David Carr (CAR), and Kyle Boller (BAL)
WEEK 10 RB RANKINGS
1. Adrian Peterson (MIN) – Last week’s record breaking 296 yard, 3 TD performance last week is a big reason why we have him ranked #1 this week, but it is not the only reason. Peterson rushed for 112 yards on only 12 carries against Green Bay back in week 4, that is a 9.3 yards per carry average. He should see even more action against them this time around, and while there is little chance for a repeat of last week, it would be surprising if he did not have another big game.
2. LaDainian Tomlinson (SD) – If the Colts defense has a weakness, it is against the run. Unless the Chargers get down big early, Tomlinson should get the ball early and often in order to burn clock, and keep the Colts offense off of the field. If he gets enough carries, Tomlinson should be effective, and he is capable of a monster game against anyone.
3. Joseph Addai (IND) – This guy has been a stud for much of the season, and has been on fire in the last couple of weeks. Addai faces an obviously overrated Chargers run defense, and while you can not expect him to run wild like Peterson did on them last week, he should have a great game.
4. Marshawn Lynch (BUF) – As expected, Lynch torched the Bengals defense last week, even throwing for a score. This week’s match up against the Dolphins 31st ranked run defense bodes equally as well if not better for him. Expect another huge outing for Lynch in week 10.
5. Willie Parker (PIT) – As we anticipated, Parker was pretty much shut down by the Ravens last week. This week should be a different story against a pathetic Browns run defense. He should exceed the 100-yard mark at the very least.
6. Brian Westbrook (PHI) – He is not a fantasy stud so much because of what he can do on the ground, but rather what he can add in the passing game. He pulled in 14 receptions last week against Dallas, an amazing feat for even top flight wide outs. Westbrook is the complete package, and he should prove it once again against the Redskins in week 10. (Check injury report: shoulder)
7. Reggie Bush (NO) – He continues to be an effective fantasy performer using his amazing athleticism and versatility. This multi-talented back should have another big game against the Rams, as the Saints offense continues to progress and roll. Bush is a likely candidate to reach stud status again in week 10. (Check injury report: knee)
8. Willis McGahee (BAL) – He has not posted astounding numbers in any week this season, but McGahee has been very solid, and he managed to find the end zone for the third straight game last week against the Steelers. McGahee should be able to continue his TD streak, and then some in week 10 against a really bad Bengals run D. (Check injury report: head)
9. Marion Barber (DAL) – Barber does not always put up great yardage totals, but what he does do well is find the end zone. Barber has found pay dirt in his last 2 games, and has 3 TD’s in his last 2 games versus this week’s opponent, the New York Giants. He is also effective as a receiver out of the backfield. We like his chances in week 10.
10. Kevin Jones (DET) – The Lions offense has made a transition this season from a pass heavy attack to one that favors the run. A big reason for that is Kevin Jones. He has been very effective in the Lions backfield in recent weeks, finding the end zone in 4 of his last 6 games. Jones and the Lions running game should be in full effect once again when he faces the Cardinals 19th ranked run defense in week 10.
11. LenDale White (TEN) – Few NFL running backs have been as consistently productive as LenDale White in the last few weeks. White will be shooting for his 4th consecutive 100 yard rushing game this week when he takes the field against Jacksonville. He is also a strong candidate to find pay dirt. (Check injury report: toe)
12. Brandon Jacobs (NYG) – Since returning from injury, Jacobs has managed 100 yard performances in 3 of 4 games. He has also scored 2 TD’s during that stretch. Jacobs will face his toughest challenge to date this week against Dallas’ 5th ranked run defense, but he should manage to do some damage, especially in goal line situations.
13. Justin Fargas (OAK) – When given the opportunity, Fargas has excelled as the Raiders RB. He is now officially the starter, and this speedy back should make the most of the spotlight. He faces a Bears defense that ranks 26th against the run, so Fargas could be in line for a big day. He should be in your starting line up this week.
14. Cedric Benson (CHI) – He has been one of the bigger fantasy disappointments this season, but he has the chance to turn that all around starting this week. The Bears will go to the ground game early and often, and considering they are matched up against the Raiders 30th ranked run defense, Benson stands to have a great day.
15. Steven Jackson (STL) – If Jackson can stay healthy long enough to make it through a complete game, he should provide fantasy owners with positive value this week. While he has the tools to provide a monster game, you should not set your expectations too high. He faces an underrated Saints run defense, and this game is likely to turn into a battle through the air. If Jackson can get a sufficient number of carries, he could be great. (Check injury report: back)
16. Edgerrin James (ARI) – If not for a late TD last week, James would have had a disastrous week 9. He should bounce back with a better effort in week 10 against the Lions. He is too talented to be shut down for consecutive weeks, but do not expect anything huge, as the Lions have a solid run D.
17. Clinton Portis (WAS) – He was able to run wild on the Jets last week posting 196 yards and a TD. While he remains a threat to find the end zone again this week, do not expect a repeat performance in week 10 against the Eagles 7th ranked run defense.
18. DeShaun Foster (CAR) – Foster has had a less than stellar ’07 campaign, but his one and only big game this season came in an earlier meeting against this week’s opponent. In week 3, Foster posted 135 total yards and 2 TD’s against the Falcons. The Falcons run defense comes into week 10 ranked a poor 23rd, so Foster has a good shot at a repeat performance.
19. Maurice Jones-Drew (JAC) – He is one of the more talented backs in the NFL, but Jones-Drew will have to conjure up some serious magic to have success against the Titans top ranked run defense. He was basically shut out against them in an earlier meeting, but he has really stepped up his game since that time, and his ability to be multi-dimensional should net him decent production this time around.
20. Jesse Chatman (MIA) – He has performed admirably in limited service this season. Chatman will be making his second career start this week in place of the injured Ronnie Brown. He does not have comparable talent to that of Brown, but he does have the same offensive line, and we like his chances for a decent game against the Bills 19th ranked run defense.
21. Warrick Dunn (ATL) – Dunn took everyone by surprise last week with a performance reminiscent of his glory days in Tampa. While you can not expect him to have similar output on a weekly basis, he should post solid numbers again this week against a mediocre Panthers run defense. Dunn averaged 5 yards per carry in a week 3 meeting with Carolina. With the likelihood that Jerrious Norwood will be out, Dunn should carry the load, and possibly help lead your fantasy team to victory in week 10.
22. Priest Holmes (KC) – He is back, and while he may not be the Priest of old, he should post solid numbers in a limited role against the Broncos 32nd ranked run defense. He is not too far from being removed from super star fantasy status, and like everyone else, we are anxious to see what he has left in the tank.
23. Travis Henry (DEN) – Since the announcement of a possible suspension, Henry has battled injuries, and produced minimal fantasy output. He has a solid track record against the Chiefs, averaging 125 yards in two career games, but with his health still in question, that average is likely to go down if he plays. He may turn out to have a good week, but the odds are not in his favor. (Check injury report: knee)
24. Jamal Lewis (CLE) – He did not achieve much in the yardage department, but Lewis was able to light up the scoreboard 4 times. He will have a much tougher time finding pay dirt in week 10 against Pittsburgh’s 4th ranked run defense. Do not expect a great deal of production from Lewis.
25. Frank Gore (SF) - While Gore has been limited this week, he has participated in practice, which is a positive sign that he may play on Monday night against Seattle. The bad news is that even if Gore does play, he will likely be limited in the number of carries he receives. He is probably not your best option for week 10 unless he is given a completely clean bill of health, which seems unlikely. (Check injury report: ankle)
26. Ryan Grant (GB) – Despite a concussion he received in last week’s game, Grant should be cleared to play, and receive the bulk of the carries. Unfortunately, he is matched up against the NFL’s second best run D. (Check injury report: concussion)
27. Rudi Johnson (CIN) – After receiving limited carries in mop up duty last week, Johnson should get the start this week. Even if Johnson gets the start, he is little more than an emergency option this week against the Ravens 3rd ranked run defense. Johnson has been a huge disappointment to fantasy owners even when healthy.
28. Shaun Alexander (SEA) – Alexander has taken a beating in almost every game this season, and last week was no different. It is highly unlikely that Alexander will see the field this week, and even if he does, it should be in a limited role. On top of that, he has been horrible, failing to exceed the 50 yard mark or even score a TD in his last 4 games. (Check injury report: knee)
29. Julius Jones (DAL) – While Jones had one of his better outings last week against the Eagles, he remains on the low end of the spectrum for fantasy backs. Expect little from Jones in week 10.
30. Fred Taylor (JAC) – Taylor has had a tough season to this point averaging only 59 yards rushing per game. He is also yet to score even one TD. Taylor will not have it any easier when he rolls into Nashville to face the Titans top ranked run defense in week 10. He only managed 16 yards on 6 carries against them in week 1.
31. Maurice Morris (SEA) – His fantasy value for week 10 relies heavily on the status of Shaun Alexander. Unfortunately, Alexander’s status is up in the air at this time. If Morris gets the start this week, he may be worth putting in your starting line up, and even if he does not start, he should see plenty of action.
32. Selvin Young (DEN) – If Travis Henry is out for week 10, Young will get the start. At this point, it is probably 50-50, but if you have Young, it would be wise to keep track of Henry’s status. He could post decent numbers against an average Chiefs run D.
33. Kolby Smith (KC) – While he will not be the starter this week, Smith should see a fair amount of carries in relief of Priest Holmes, who will get the start. In all honesty, we do not know much about Smith, outside of a few college performances at Louisville, but he is in the NFL for a reason, and he has a favorable match up against a horrible Denver run defense.
34. Najeh Davenport (PIT) – Davenport is far from a reliable option in any week, but his potential for goal line carries and a promising match up against the Browns 27th ranked run D, makes him worth a look in week 10 if you are in desperate need.
35a. Chester Taylor (MIN) – Taylor was great last week in relief of Adrian Peterson, totaling 83 yards and a TD. You can not expect that kind of output every week from Taylor, but he should provide at least a few points in mop up duty.
35b. Kenny Watson (CIN) – Watson should move into a back up role in favor of Rudi Johnson this week, but we expect he will still see a fair number of carries, and he is always a threat in the Bengals passing game. Do not expect much, especially considering the match up against a stingy Ravens run D.
* Other potential RB options for week 10 include: DeAngelo Williams (CAR), Maurice Hicks (SF), Brandon Jackson (GB), LaMont Jordan (OAK), Adrian Peterson (CHI), Samkon Gado (MIA), Brian Leonard (STL), Michael Robinson (SF), and LaDell Betts (WAS)
Thursday
WEEK 10 WR RANKINGS
1. T.J. Houshmandzadeh (CIN) – He was able to score his 10th TD of the season in week 9 against Buffalo, extending his streak to 8 consecutive games. If Houshmandzadeh is healthy enough to play, he has a good chance to extend the TD streak to 9 games against a Ravens secondary depleted by injury and illness. (Check injury report: knee)
2. Terrell Owens (DAL) – In his last 3 games, he has accumulated 23 receptions for 343 yards and 3 TD’s. Owens was also able to find the end zone twice against the Giants in an earlier meeting this season. He is on fire and a must start in week 10.
3. Reggie Wayne (IND) – He has been one of the more consistent fantasy performers of the season, posting at least 5 receptions in 7 of 8 games. The only game in which he failed to reach that mark was a 4 catch, 84 yard performance at Houston. Expect Wayne to continue his stellar play against the Chargers 24th ranked pass defense, especially if Marvin Harrison is out again.
4. Plaxico Burress (NYG) – Burress flat out scorched the Cowboys secondary in an earlier meeting accumulating a phenomenal 144 yards and 3 scores. He has struggled a bit of late, but Burress is more than capable of repeating his week 1 performance against Dallas.
5. Lee Evans (BUF) – Evans appears to have righted the ship, and has been on a tear of late. He has compiled 19 receptions for an astounding 401 yards and 2 TD’s in his last 3 games. Evans has 6 TD’s in 6 career games against this week’s opponent, the Miami Dolphins. He should be in your starting line up in week 10.
6. Larry Fitzgerald (ARI) – He has been a favorite target for QB Kurt Warner in recent games. You combine that with the fact that the Cardinals face the Lions 30th ranked pass defense, and you have a winner in Fitzgerald.
7. Marques Colston (NO) – The Saints offense is finally clicking again, and no one stands to benefit more than Colston. He appears to be over his sophomore slump; accumulating 18 catches for 244 yards and 3 TD’s in his last 2 contests. He should continue to excel this week against the Rams in a battle of high powered offenses.
8. Santonio Holmes (PIT) – Holmes has been ripping it up lately with 22 catches for 379 yards and 5 TD’s in his last 4 games. He should further his argument as an elite fantasy wide out this week against the Browns 32nd, and worst ranked pass defense. Holmes is a likely stud for week 10 if his hamstring holds up. (Check injury report: hamstring)
9. Torry Holt (STL) – When Rams QB Marc Bulger takes the field this week against the Saints 27th ranked pass defense, the passes will be flying early and often. As Bulger’s #1 option, no one stands to benefit more than Holt. Expect a big game for “Big Game” Torry Holt.
10. Braylon Edwards (CLE) – He will be looking at one of his biggest tests of the season this week when the Browns head to Pittsburgh to take on the Steelers top ranked defense. Edwards has been one of the top fantasy WR’s out there this season, and despite a tough match up, he remains a must start for your fantasy team.
11. Greg Jennings (GB) – He has played in 6 games this season, and has 6TD’s to show for it. Jennings is quickly displacing Donald Driver as Brett Favre’s go to guy. He should continue his run of success this week against the Vikings 31st ranked pass defense, a team Jennings scored against in an earlier meeting.
12. Chad Johnson (CIN) – If he is on the field Sunday, Johnson stands to have one of his better games of the season. He matches up against a beat up Ravens secondary that he managed 95 yards and a TD against back in week 1. If healthy, he should be able to match or exceed those numbers in week 10. (Check injury report: neck)
13. Donald Driver (GB) – While Driver has had a fairly disappointing ’07 fantasy campaign, he remains a threat for a monster game any week. He had a solid week 9, and week 10 looks especially promising against Minnesota’s 31st ranked pass D.
14. Anquan Boldin (ARI) – Look for Boldin to bounce back from a mediocre week 9 performance. He matches up against a poor Lions secondary that ranks 30th and Boldin is too talented to be held in check for consecutive games.
15. Hines Ward (PIT) – He is looking at a superb match up against the league’s worst pass defense. Ward was able to find the end zone against the Browns back in week 1, and has played very well against them historically. Look for a solid performance from him in week 10, and a TD is not out of the question.
16. Roy Williams (DET) – He continues to perform on a mediocre level as a fantasy WR since scoring a TD in each of his first 3 games. Williams has not found the end zone in 5 straight contests now, but that is all the more reason to start him in week 10. If any wide out is overdue for a big game, it is Williams. At the very least, he should provide decent numbers in terms of receptions and yardage.
17. Brandon Marshall (DEN) – While he has not found the end zone in a few games, he has been very consistent in the reception and yardage categories. Despite his inability to score of late, Marshall remains a threat in that capacity, and should be a solid start for week 10 against a mediocre Chiefs secondary.
18. Derrick Mason (BAL) – Despite only 35 yards receiving, Mason did have 6 catches, and was basically the only bright spot in the Ravens passing game against the Steelers. Mason continues to show great consistency with no fewer than 5 receptions in any game this season. He should have a much easier way to go this week against a horrible Bengals secondary. He is a must start, especially in reception heavy leagues.
19. Bobby Engram (SEA) – He is coming off a monster week 9 with 13 receptions for 139 yards and a score. With Deion Branch likely out and D.J. Hackett limited with injuries, Engram should again be the go to guy for Hasselbeck in week 10. The way the Seahawks spread the ball around, any of the Seattle wide outs are capable of a big game or a bust game. The odds are in Engram’s favor for a big game, at least for 1 more week.
20. Chris Chambers (SD) – Chambers put up decent, but not spectacular numbers, in his second start with the Chargers. He probably would have had a better fantasy stat line, but QB Phillip Rivers struggled throwing the ball. Look for Chambers to post better numbers this week against the Colts, as they are likely to get behind early, forcing them to go to the air.
21. Kevin Curtis (PHI) – Curtis will face a Redskins secondary that he struggled against back in week 2 with only 4 catches for 28 yards. Since that time, Curtis has vastly improved his role in the Eagles offense, and has been a fairly consistent fantasy performer. He should get a sufficient number of looks to produce a solid game.
22. Roddy White (ATL) – He isn’t coming off of one of his better outings, but we like him in week 10. He destroyed the Panther secondary earlier in the year to the tune of 7 catches for 127 yards and a TD. He has a great opportunity for a repeat game against a Panthers defense that has shown no improvement since their first meeting.
23. Marvin Harrison (IND) – (UPDATE: HE'S NOT PLAYING. BENCH HIM) Despite high expectations of a return last week, Harrison was once again a scratch. Although a return in week 10 looks promising, he will likely only return in a limited role. If that is the case, it may not be wise to start Harrison this week, but even in a limited role, he is better than most WR’s that will receive full reps. If later in the week, it looks positive for Harrison to play a complete game, start him with confidence against a poor Chargers secondary. (Check injury report: knee)
24. David Patten (NO) – He is kind of risky, but with WR’s at a premium, he makes for a good start in week 10. Patten has posted solid numbers in 3 out of the last 4 weeks, and should see plenty of action against the Rams.
25. D.J. Hackett (SEA) – He returned from injury last week with outstanding fantasy results, posting 6 catches and a score. Hackett should play a large role in the Seattle offense again this week, especially with the likely absence of Deion Branch.
26. Brandon Stokley (DEN) – Stokley continues to produce solid fantasy numbers as a replacement for Javon Walker. He has 2 TD’s in his last 3 games, and should get plenty of attention against a mediocre Chiefs secondary.
27. James Jones (GB) – Jones is kind of a wild card, you never know exactly what he is going to give you, but this week’s match up against the Vikings 31st ranked pass defense is promising. He had 4 catches for 49 yards and a TD against them in an earlier meeting this season.
28. Patrick Crayton (DAL) – He is not the most reliable option out there, but he has proven to have big game potential. If Romo can carve up the Giants secondary for the second time this season, Crayton should be in the mix to have a solid day.
29. Isaac Bruce (STL) – Bruce has been off track much of this season compared to previous years, but that is mostly due to nagging injuries that have plagued him throughout his ’07 campaign. He is now completely healthy, and coming off a very solid game against Cleveland. Bruce will play the rare sleeper role in week 10 in a great match up against a shaky Saints pass defense.
30. Ronald Curry (OAK) – Curry is coming off of one of his worst performances of the season with only 2 catches for 12 yards. In his defense, he was battling a foot injury that is said to be a non issue heading into week 10. Curry should bounce back against the Bears, but do not expect anything overwhelming in terms of production against Chicago.
31. Calvin Johnson (DET) – Johnson has been a high risk-high reward fantasy prospect throughout the season. While he is a monster game waiting to happen, he generally puts up average numbers. Johnson will face a solid Arizona pass defense this week, so while he has break out potential, do not expect a lot this week.
32. Bernard Berrian (CHI) – Berrian has been fairly consistent throughout the season, but has yet to produce huge fantasy output in any one game. While the potential is there, it is hard to expect that to happen against a quality Raiders secondary in week 10.
33. Steve Smith (CAR) – Smith continued a disappointing fantasy season last week with only 3 catches for 15 yards. It is now apparent that as long as Carr is at QB, you can expect minimal benefit from Smith. There is good news and bad news for Smith going into week 10. The good news is that Testaverde will probably be under center this week. He seems to have better chemistry with Grandpaverde, and has had better output with him at QB. The bad news is that he is facing a Falcons team that has shut him down over the last couple of seasons, even at his peak. So despite his amazing talents and capabilities, it may not be the best week to start him.
34. Dwayne Bowe (KC) – After blistering opposing defenses for several weeks, Bowe was completely shut out in week 9. He has seen his fantasy value drop considerably in recent weeks, but remains a threat any given week. Much of his week 9 downfall can be attributed to a hamstring issue that hampered him throughout the game. A healthier Bowe should rebound this week, but it is difficult to expect much more than average numbers against Denver, especially if he is covered by a healthy Champ Bailey.
35. Reggie Brown (PHI) – While Brown has undoubtedly increased his fantasy value in recent weeks by playing a bigger role in the Eagles offense, he remains an unreliable fantasy option. Brown is a very capable receiver, but he has never seen a great deal of success against the Redskins including a poor 2 catch performance against them in week 2. He should easily surpass his week 2 performance against the Skins, but do not expect much.
36. Chris Henry (CIN) – He will return to the team this week after serving an 8 game suspension for various run ins with the law. Henry’s return could not have come at a better time for a Bengals offense struggling to regain its high powered status. He has been practicing with the team for several weeks, so he should be able to step right in and contribute. He is a decent starting option in week 9, and could have a big game if Chad Johnson is unable to play.
37. Shaun McDonald (DET) – He is quietly having a solid fantasy season. McDonald was able to find the end zone last week for the 4th time this year, and continues to see plenty of attention in the Lions passing game. Receptions and yards will not come easy this week against the Cardinals 7th ranked pass D, but he has proven himself to be worthy of a potential starting spot on most fantasy rosters, depending on your other options.
38. Amani Toomer (NYG) – He has been one of the more inconsistent WR options out there. Despite his tendency toward unreliability, we like his chances for a solid game against a Dallas secondary that he lit up earlier in the season with 9 catches for 91 yards.
39. Santana Moss (WAS) – He has shown some improvement over the last couple of games, but he is still far from being the player we are used to seeing. It is hard to say what the future holds for Moss, but as of right now, he has little fantasy value. If healthy, he may be worth considering for week 10. He posted solid numbers against the Eagles in week 2 with 6 catches for 89 yards. (Check injury report: heel)
40. Drew Bennett (STL) – He is coming off of one of his better games with a 6 catch for 63 yards effort against the Browns. Like that game, The Rams offense should be in pass mode early and often, making Bennett a guy to watch for week 10.
41. Muhsin Muhammad (CHI) – This guy runs very hot and cold, but leans more to the cold. He does have 3 TD’s in his last 5 starts, but little else. He faces a tough Oakland secondary in week 10.
42. Deion Branch (SEA) – After a solid start to the ’07 season Branch has missed several games due to a foot injury. He is optimistic for a week 10 return, although chances are he will not play this week, and even if he does, it will be in a limited role. Do not expect his usual if he starts, and make sure to follow his progress before starting him yourself. (Check injury report: foot)
43. Arnaz Battle (SF) – You can never expect much from Battle, but he almost always manages some production, and is very capable of finding pay dirt any given week. He has a nice match up against the Seahawks 25th ranked pass defense.
44. Mike Furrey (DET) – He is pretty much hit or miss this season, but he is coming off of a solid performance in which he scored a TD. Detroit WR’s seem to run in streaks, so he may be worth a look as a decent candidate to find pay dirt again in week 10.
45. Joe Jurevicius (CLE) – He is slowly becoming more than a bye week fill in. Jurevicius is starting to show value as a fantasy receiver in a capacity that exceeds his risky red zone appeal. Although he is starting to produce on a larger scale, he is probably not one of your better options this week against a monster Steeler defense.
46. Jerry Porter (OAK) – He is unlikely to provide anything special in terms of fantasy production, but he has been somewhat reliable in recent weeks for decent numbers, which is more than you can say for a lot of WR’s. He should see a fair share of looks against the Bears.
47. Eddie Kennison (KC) – He has pretty much missed the entire season with a hamstring injury. Kennison has fully participated in practice this week, and seems probable to return in week 10. At this point, he will likely be rusty and play second fiddle to Dwayne Bowe, but his talent and veteran know how make him worth consideration against the Broncos. (Check injury report: hamstring)
48. Antwaan Randle El (WAS) – While he has sparingly shown bursts throughout the season, his inconsistency outweighs his worth. He has also been bothered by a hamstring injury which helped limit him to only 1 catch last week. Randle El has the tools to produce, but he should only be used if healthy and only as an emergency option. His biggest upside this week lies in his return skills, so if you are in a league that does not account for return stats, he is probably not worth much consideration. (Check injury report: hamstring)
49. Marty Booker (MIA) – With a season ending injury to Ronnie Brown, and Chris Chambers being shipped off to San Diego, many fantasy owners expected Booker to step to the forefront of the Miami offense. So far, that has not happened. He has the chance to prove himself against the Bills 29th ranked pass defense in week 10.
50. Ted Ginn (MIA) – Ginn is still a long way from being a fantasy stud, but as his role slowly increases in the Dolphins offense, so should his production. He is coming off of a game in which he scored his first career TD, and has explosive potential as both a receiver and return man. He has a nice match up against a Buffalo secondary that ranks 29th. Ginn is high risk at this point, but he may be worth the gamble if you are desperate.
* Other potential WR options worthy of consideration for week 10 include: Nate Washington (PIT), Vincent Jackson (SD), Reggie Williams (JAC), Mark Clayton (BAL), Nate Burleson (SEA), Darrell Jackson (SF), Dennis Northcutt (JAC), Lance Moore (NO), Brandon Jones (TEN), Michael Jenkins (ATL), Bobby Wade (MIN), Roydell Williams (TEN), Josh Reed (BUF), Sidney Rice (MIN), Anthony Gonzalez (IND),Derek Hagan (MIA), and Justin Gage (TEN)
WEEK 10 TE RANKINGS
1. Jason Witten (DAL)
2. Antonio Gates (SD)
3. Tony Gonzalez (KC)
4. Kellen Winslow (CLE)
5. Dallas Clark (IND) – check injury report: concussion
6. Heath Miller (PIT)
7. Todd Heap (BAL) – check injury report: hamstring
8. Chris Cooley (WAS)
9. Jeremy Shockey (NYG)
10. Vernon Davis (SF)
11. Greg Olsen (CHI)
12. Donald Lee (GB)
13. Tony Scheffler (DEN)
14. Eric Johnson (NO)
15. Alge Crumpler (ATL) – check injury report: knee, ankle
16. Desmond Clark (CHI)
17. Jeff King (CAR)
18. Bo Scaife (TEN)
19. L.J. Smith (PHI)
20. Visanthe Shiancoe (MIN)
21. Randy McMichael (STL)
22. David Martin (MIA)
23. Marcedes Lewis (JAC) – check injury report: knee
24. Zach Miller (OAK)
25. Robert Royal (BUF)
* Other TE options for week 10 include: Leonard Pope (ARI), Will Heller (SEA) and Reggie Kelly (CIN) - check injury report: knee
WEEK 10 DEFENSE RANKINGS
1. Tennessee (JAC)
2. Seattle (SF)
3. Pittsburgh (CLE)
4. Chicago (@OAK)
5. Philadelphia (@WAS)
6. Kansas City (DEN)
7. Green Bay (MIN)
8. Indianapolis (@SD)
9. Washington (PHI)
10. Jacksonville (@TEN)
11. Detroit (@ARI)
12. Baltimore (CIN)
13. Buffalo (@MIA)
14. Oakland (CHI)
15. Dallas (@NYG)
16. Carolina (ATL)
17. Minnesota (@GB)
18. Arizona (DET)
19. Denver (@KC)
20. New Orleans (STL)
21. Atlanta (@CAR)
22. NY Giants (DAL)
23. Miami (BUF)
24. San Francisco (@SEA)
25. Cincinnati (@BAL)
26. San Diego (IND)
27. St. Louis (@NO)
28. Cleveland (@PIT)
Wednesday
10 QBs On Pace for Record 4,000-Yard Season
Ten quarterbacks, led by the Patriots' Tom Brady and the Packers' Brett Favre, are on pace to throw for more than 4,000 yards this season, marking an NFL record. If all 10 gunslingers continue on their bombs-away pace, it would double the previous record, which occurred in 1999, 2004 and 2006, when five QBs eclipsed the 4,000-yard mark during a single season.
To offer up some historical context, New York Jets QB Joe Namath was the first quarterback to throw for 4,000 yards during one season, back in 1967.
The 10 QBs on pace for 4,000 yards this season are:
Tom Brady (2,686 yards in 9 games) on pace for 4,775
Brett Favre (2,406 yards in 8 games) on pace for 4,812
Tony Romo (2,308 yards in 8 games) on pace for 4,616
Carson Palmer (2,193 yards in 8 games) on pace for 4,386
Drew Brees (2,175 yards in 8 games) on pace for 4,350
Derek Anderson (2,108 yards in 8 games) on pace for 4,216
Peyton Manning (2,058 yards in 8 games) on pace for 4,116
Donovan McNabb (2,044 yards in 8 games) on pace for 4,088
Matt Hasselbeck (2,023 yards in 8 games) on pace for 4,046
Jon Kitna (2000 yards in 8 games) on pace for 4,000
Tuesday
Week 10 Schedules (and times)
It's hard to believe but Week 10 of the NFL season is upon us. As we work around-the-clock preparing the web's best fantasy football rankings, we thought we'd give you quick glimpse at the match-ups to come.
Byes:
(All times local)
Sunday, November 11 | Sunday, November 11, Cont.’d. |
Monday, November 12 | |
Friday
WEEK 9 QB RANKINGS
1. Tom Brady (NE) – The Colts pass defense comes into this game ranked first in the NFL, they can expect to leave the game without that honor. As good as the Colts secondary has played; they are no match for Brady and his high powered arsenal of weapons. Brady is a must start in what should be an epic battle between two offensive juggernauts.
2. Peyton Manning (IND) – It is unclear how this week’s match up against New England will pan out, but one thing is clear, and that is that Peyton Manning is one of the best QB’s to ever play the game. He may have some lows in this game, but he is sure to have some highs as well. He has a pretty solid history against the Pats, and don’t forget, he only has to worry about the New England defense, not their offense. You would be certified insane to bench Manning against any opponent.
3. Carson Palmer (CIN) – Palmer continues to produce good, but not great, fantasy numbers. He should be great this week against the Bills 29th ranked pass defense. Start him with confidence.
4. Derek Anderson (CLE) – This guy is no longer considered a sleeper. Anderson has played as well as any QB this season, excluding Brady, and is worthy of the title of top flight fantasy QB. He faces a middle of the road Seattle pass D this week that should not give him too much trouble.
5. Matt Hasselbeck (SEA) – Hasselbeck is currently battling an oblique injury. He is expected to start, and the injury is such that there should be little to no effect on his performance, it’s more of a discomfort issue. He is likely to have a big game this week against the Browns 31st ranked pass defense. (Check injury report: oblique)
6. Tony Romo (DAL) – He completed less than 50% of his passes, threw for a mere 142 yards, and tossed up 2 picks in his only start against the Eagles last season, but this is a new season, and Romo is a better QB. He may have some difficulties with the Eagles defense, but he brings too much to the table to sit him on the bench.
7. Phillip Rivers (SD) – He only threw 11 passes last week, but that is all he needed, as he completed 7 of them, 3 of which went for TD’s. Rivers is one of the most unpredictable QB’s out there, and given his past match ups, his stat lines teeter on the bizarre. We like his chances for a solid game against the cellar dwelling Vikings pass defense.
8. Brett Favre (GB) – After a tough week 6, Favre was almost flawless against Denver last week. He matches up against a tough Chiefs defense this week, but if he continues to play at his current level, Favre should have little trouble with KC in week 9.
9. Donovan McNabb (PHI) – He has a very rich history against the Cowboys, and he threw for 354 yards and 2 TD’s against them in their last meeting. It is hard to expect numbers of that magnitude with McNabb’s surgically repaired knee, but he is capable of a very good game against a suspect Cowboys secondary.
10. Drew Brees (NO) – He continues to look more and more like the Brees of old with each passing game. This week, Brees faces an underrated Jaguars defense. He should continue to stay on track, and we like his chances for his 4th consecutive solid week.
11. Jay Cutler (DEN) – Cutler has had two of his better games of the season since coming off a bye in week 6. He faces a Lions pass defense that ranks a lowly 30th, so this may be his best opportunity for a monster game.
12. Ben Roethlisberger (PIT) – He has produced on a fairly consistent and high level, and Roethlisberger has really improved his stock throughout the season. He faces a big test against a Baltimore defense that has given him fits in the past. Do not expect one of his better games, but he has played well to this point, and he should break his awful streak against Baltimore.
13. Jason Campbell (WAS) – Campbell has had two disappointing games in a row, but he should be able to rebound against a Jets defense that is pretty bad all the way around. We like his chances for a solid week 9 performance.
14. Jon Kitna (DET) – Kitna is a great QB that has the potential to go off any week, but he has failed to throw a TD pass since week 4, and the new look Lions offense, seems more likely to run than throw these days. Kitna should break his scoreless streak, but do not expect anything huge from him this week.
15. Jeff Garcia (TB) – He finally broke his games without an interception streak in week 8, and he did it in a big way, throwing 3 picks on the day. Expect Garcia to get back to business as usual this week against the Cardinals. He is likely to have an efficient and semi-productive game.
16. Kurt Warner (ARI) – He should make his second straight start since tearing a ligament in his non throwing elbow. Warner is looking at a difficult match up against the NFL’s 2nd ranked pass defense, but he has the weapons to make a good day of it. You can probably expect at least one interception, but Warner is also very likely to find the end zone at least once. (Check injury report: elbow)
17. J.P. Losman (BUF) – Losman is not a guy we necessarily recommend starting, but the match up against Cincy bodes very well for him. Lee Evans is starting to play well, and the Bengals pass defense has more holes in it than Travis Henry “second hand smoke” story. Losman could have a decent week 9, and may be worth a shot if you are desperate for a starting QB.
18. Damon Huard (KC) – Huard has managed to put up solid numbers in a couple of games this season, but he remains an unreliable fantasy QB. He has a decent match up against a shaky Green Bay secondary that ranks 22nd, but he should only be used as a fill in or emergency option.
19. Josh McCown (OAK) – He is scheduled to replace Culpepper and return to his original role as starting QB. McCown will likely have an average day at best against an average Texans pass defense. He will probably be rusty, and he does not have the tools in place for anything more than a so so day.
20. Steve McNair (BAL) – McNair should be fresh and is said to be throwing the ball very well in practice this week as he looks to return to the starting line up for the first time in over a month. Throwing the ball well in practice is one thing, throwing the ball well against the Steelers top ranked defense is unlikely. McNair is still a decent fantasy QB, but the match up and the timing do not bode well for him in week 9.
21. Vince Young (TEN) – Young had a lot of hype surrounding him as a fantasy QB going into this season, but he has yet to produce much of anything. He is a good QB, and he knows how to win, but he is not yet a good fantasy QB. So, until he proves he has some value in that respect, he is not really worth starting.
22. Joey Harrington (ATL) – The Falcons can’t keep this guy out of the starting line up, no matter how hard they try. Harrington is facing a decent match up against San Francisco, but the offensive line is in shambles, and this offense is just not clicking as a whole. We think Harrington is better than advertised, but he is a bad start so long as the rest of the offense is in the shape it’s in.
23. Sage Rosenfels (HOU) – Rosenfels will likely fill in for the injured Matt Schaub this week, and although he has shown some promise, he is a very risk guy to stick in your line up this week for 3 reasons. 1) He is more likely to throw an interception than a TD 2) the Oakland pass defense is very, very good and 3) he is on the road in front of the intimidating black and silver of the Raider nation
24. Alex Smith (SF) – He has a nice match up against the Falcons 20th ranked pass defense, but he has yet to be anything more than a mediocre fantasy QB this season, and that is being kind.
25. Kellen Clemens (NYJ) – Clemens has finally pushed Chad Pennington out of the starting job. Clemens has played very sparingly this season, and has performed poorly with 4 interceptions compared to only 1 TD. Chad Pennington may get his job back after fans see Clemens against the Washington defense this week. He has a potentially promising future, but he is not ready, and the QB position is not the problem with this team. Unless you are very daring, be smarter than Eric Mangini, and keep him on the bench.
* Other possible options at QB for week 9 include: David Carr (CAR), Quinn Gray (JAC), and either Tarvaris Jackson or Brooks Bollinger (MIN) - Check injury report- if Jackson is healthy, he will start, if not it will be Bollinger
WEEK 9 RB RANKINGS
1. LaDainian Tomlinson (SD) – He faces a difficult match up this week against a stingy Vikings run defense, but when you really think about it, who else could you possibly want more in your starting line up than L.T. He is a stud, and a potential monster against any defense, any week.
2. Kevin Jones (DET) – We may be stepping out on a limb here a bit with this one, but Jones is hot and the match up is ripe. The Detroit offense has gone to a more balanced attack in recent weeks. They should be in run mode this week against a Denver defense that ranks last against the run, and near the top against the pass. Jones has been playing great and should see a lot of carries, so we think he is a lock in week 9.
3. Larry Johnson (KC) – Johnson will be in for a bit of a challenge this week against a solid Packers run defense, but he finally seems to be hitting on all cylinders, which means trouble for any defense. We like his chances for a big game.
4. Brian Westbrook (PHI) – This is not one of his better match ups, but Westbrook is pure talent, and should provide strong numbers. The Cowboys are very solid against the run, and may limit him in that capacity, but even if Westbrook is contained on the ground; he is still very dangerous as a receiver out of the backfield.
5. Marshawn Lynch (BUF) – Lynch has not exactly torched opposing defenses this season, but he had a strong rookie campaign. He is looking at a great match up against a soft Cincinnati run defense, which has a lot of trouble containing speedy backs, which Lynch qualifies as. This could be his best performance yet, so start him with confidence.
6. Joseph Addai (IND) – He is coming off of his best effort of the season with 100 yards rushing and 2 TD’s against Carolina. Addai will face a very tough New England run defense on Sunday, but he should be a workhorse for the Indy offense. Unless the Colts start getting blown out, and have to turn strictly to the pass (unlikely), Addai should have a nice day.
7. Edgerrin James (ARI) – He should be called upon early and often against the Bucs 22nd ranked run defense. Expect a very solid outing from James in week 9.
8. LenDale White (TEN) – As we expected, White had his third big game in a row, rushing for 133 yards against the Raiders. We really like his chances for a fourth this week against a mediocre Carolina run defense. Although White did not find the end zone in week 8, he is a strong candidate to do so at home against the Panthers.
9. Clinton Portis (WAS) – Portis did not have a strong rushing game in week 8 against the Patriots, but he did contribute heavily to the passing attack. He should have a much easier go of it this week against a weak Jets run defense. We expect a very solid game from Portis, and there is a strong probability of at least one TD for him.
10. Adrian Peterson (MIN) – Peterson is coming off of his weakest fantasy effort of the season against the Eagles. He should have better production this week, but do not expect his numbers to increase by much against a very strong Chargers run defense. He is capable of torching any defense, so despite the poor match up, he is a must start.
11. Shaun Alexander (SEA) – If you were to place Alexander’s week to week fantasy numbers on a line graph, and be able to stand at the top of that graph and look down, you would see a decline as steep as Everest. For whatever reason, he has progressively gotten worse throughout each week of the season. When a RB back is in a slump, there is only one tried and true remedy, facing the Cleveland Browns defense, and that is exactly what Alexander will do on Sunday. If he does not snap out of it this week, there may be no hope for him. We like his chances.
12. Travis Henry (DEN) – After guaranteeing a week 8 start, Henry was a no show against the Packers. This week he has had full participation in practice, and should almost certainly be in the starting line up. He faces a very mediocre Lions run defense, so it should be a productive day for Henry. (Check injury report: ribs)
13. Marion Barber (DAL) – It will likely be a grind for Barber this week against a very tough Eagles run defense. You can not expect much in the way of ground yardage from him, but he should be very present in the Cowboys passing game. Barber is also a big threat to find the end zone, so he should probably be in your starting line up.
14. Maurice Jones-Drew (JAC) – This week’s match up against the Saints may be tougher than many anticipate, but Jones-Drew has been strong of late, and he should be completely free of the knee injury that limited him last week. Jones-Drew is much too talented to keep out of your starting line up.
15. Reggie Bush (NO) – You should not expect Bush to have a huge game on the ground against Jacksonville’s underrated run defense, but he should be able to supplement any lack of ground yardage with a solid day in the receiving game. We look for him to have a decent week 9.
16. Frank Gore (SF) – He has been limited much of the season by a lack of carries. This is something that should change in week 9 against the Falcons. This is a game that the Niners should finally be competitive enough in to run the football, and the Falcons defense is pretty bad against the run. This could be the week that Gore bounces back, but a bad ankle, lack of momentum and a very uncomplimentary passing game seems like a lot to overcome. (Check injury report: ankle)
17. Laurence Maroney (NE) – We anticipate that the Patriots may actually need a running game to compliment their high powered passing attack this week. There is a good chance that Maroney could see more action against the Colts than he has seen all season given the match up. He has yet to produce much in the grand scheme of things given his limited use, but he has a solid yards per carry average of 4.8, and this could be the week he does some damage.
18. Earnest Graham (TB) – He probably won’t wow you this week, but he has a decent match up against the 15th ranked run defense of Arizona, and he is solid out of the backfield as a receiver.
19. Willis McGahee (BAL) – He is coming off back to back solid efforts, with a TD in each of his last 2 games, and 114 rushing yards last week. This week should prove to be a big test for him against the Steelers 4th ranked run D.
20. Jamal Lewis (CLE) – He appears to have completely recovered from his foot injury and should see most, if not all, of the carries on Sunday. Seattle has an average run defense, and we expect at least an average day from Lewis.
21. Ryan Grant (GB) – He looked very impressive last week in his first ever start, rushing for over 100 yards. Grant has a little tougher match up this week against Kansas City, but he should produce fair numbers and a TD is not out of the question.
22. Willie Parker (PIT) – He has been destroying opposing defenses this season with 100 or more ground yards in 5 of his 7 starts. As solid as he has been, this may be a week to forget for Parker and fantasy owners alike. He faces a Baltimore run defense that ranks 2nd and he only managed games of 22 and 29 yards against them last season. He is talented enough to work some magic, but we seriously doubt he will do much in week 9.
23. Thomas Jones (NYJ) – He is showing some signs of improvement, but he has still yet to score a TD, and has been mediocre at best as a fantasy RB. He faces a pretty good Washington run D in week 9, so do not expect a whole lot from him.
24. Kenny Watson (CIN) – It looks as though Rudi Johnson will be back this week, but we anticipate that Watson will get the start for at least one more game. He has a great match up against Buffalo, but he will likely give up a lot of carries to Johnson this week, so you may be best suited sitting him if you have a better option for week 9. It is really unclear how he and Johnson will be used, so pay attention to his status as Sunday approaches.
25. Ahman Green (HOU) – Green has been troubled by a knee injury for several weeks now. It was bad enough that he was held out of last week’s game entirely. He has been limited in practice, and it is unknown if he will be cleared to play at this time. This week offers a great match up against the Raiders, but his status and ability to play a complete game are in question. If you like to gamble, it could pay off to start him, but we suggest you know Green will at least start before inserting him into your line up. (Check injury report: knee)
26. Fred Taylor (JAC) – Taylor has not proven to have a lot of fantasy value this season with average performances at best. Despite a healthy amount of carries, he is has yet to top the 100 yard mark or score even 1 TD. He should provide some relief to a needy fantasy owner in week 9 against the Saints, but do not expect much.
27. DeShaun Foster (CAR) – He faces the monumental task of overcoming the Titans top ranked run defense, something no back has been able to do with any success this season. Expect a mediocre game at best from Foster in week 9.
28. Rudi Johnson (CIN) – Johnson will almost certainly see action this week returning from a hamstring injury. Just how much action he will see remains unclear. Kenny Watson will likely start, but Johnson should see at least a few carries and possibly more. He has a very good match up against the Bills 24th ranked run defense, but you should check up on his status for any hints of possible playing time before throwing him on your starting roster. (Check injury report: hamstring, probable)
29. LaMont Jordan (OAK) – He was looking great before his nagging back injury started to act up, ever since, he has been a bust. He has a good match up this week against Houston and could bounce back, but he will likely split carries with Justin Fargas who may outshine him again.
30. Justin Fargas (OAK) – He has performed admirably in his limited call to duty. He split carries with LaMont Jordan last week, and could see an even bigger piece of the action against Houston. Fargas is a risky start, but he could very well be the surprise of the week, and come off with a big game.
31. Julius Jones (DAL) – He has had decent success against the Eagles in the past, but that was before Marion Barber stole the show. He will have a tough time accumulating enough touches to do any real damage this week, so he is a bye week fill in at best.
32. Jerrious Norwood (ATL) – He is still considered the Falcons back up RB, but he has proven to be the better option over Warrick Dunn. Norwood is capable of busting a long run for a TD any week, but that is the best you can hope for, and more unlikely than likely.
33. Chris Henry (TEN) – Henry has played very well the last 2 weeks scoring a twice in a back up role. He is likely to have a limited number of carries again this week, but he has proven that he can get the job done when called upon.
34. Kevin Faulk (NE) – He is unlikely to see a lot of action against the Colts, but he should produce at least a few fantasy points, primarily as a receiver out of the backfield.
35. Chester Taylor (MIN) – Taylor has officially lost his starting gig to Adrian Peterson. While he should still see a few carries, his value is very minimal at this point. He may get you a few points, but do not count on much against a tough Charger run D.
* Other notable RB options for week 9 include: Warrick Dunn (ATL), Adimchinobe Echemandu (HOU), DeAngelo Williams (CAR), Kenton Keith (IND), Michael Bennett (TB), Vernand Morency (GB), Ron Dayne (HOU), Jason Wright (CLE) and Selvin Young (DEN)
WEEK 9 WR RANKINGS (2007)
1. T.J. Houshmandzadeh (CIN) – As far as consistency goes, he has been the best fantasy WR out there. Houshmandzadeh is the only WR to have scored a TD in every single game this season. He has 9 TD grabs total, which ranks him second among WR’s behind only Randy Moss, who has 11 TD's. Housh should continue his streak against the Bills 29th ranked pass defense on Sunday.
2. Randy Moss (NE) – This week’s match up against the Colts top ranked pass defense may be his biggest challenge to date, but the Colts have yet to see a WR of Moss’s caliber. As with any secondary he faces, Moss should have little trouble navigating his way to the end zone. He is a must start against any defense, any week.
3. Braylon Edwards (CLE) – Few wide receivers, if any, have torn it up as much as Braylon Edwards in the last few weeks. He will be targeted early and often, and should have another big game against Seattle’s 16th ranked pass D.
4. Wes Welker (NE) – Welker has 29 catches for 351 yards and 5 TD’s in his last three contests. He will face a stingy Colts pass defense in week 9, but it is hard to argue with those kind of numbers. He is on fire, and should be in your starting line up this week.
5. Terrell Owens (DAL) – Owens should be pumped and ready to go this week against his former team in Philadelphia. This will not be an easy match up for Owens, but he is playing well right now, and should have plenty of motivation on the big Sunday night stage.
6. Reggie Wayne (IND) – Wayne has caught fire in the absence of Marvin Harrison. He has a big test this week against a really good New England secondary, and Harrison may be back in the starting line up, so his numbers may decline a bit, but he should still get plenty of touches. Wayne will likely be Manning’s top target this week, and has the talent to overcome all obstacles.
7. Chad Johnson (CIN) – While Johnson has been solid this season, he has failed to put up Ocho Cinco like numbers on a regular basis. If his ankle holds up, this could be the week he breaks out against a poor Bills secondary. (Check injury report: ankle)
8. Anquan Boldin (ARI) – He has a pretty tough match up this week against the Buccaneers 2nd ranked pass defense, but Boldin should receive plenty of attention in the Cardinals passing attack. He hauled in 2 TD passes in his last game after returning from injury. Boldin should be in your fantasy line up for week 9.
9. Marvin Harrison (IND) – It is unclear if Harrison will be back for this week’s game against New England. The Colts certainly hope he will be, because no receiver has had more success against the Patriots in recent years than Harrison. He has scored a TD in each of his last 5 meetings against them, and has 7 total TD’s in those 5 games. So if he is cleared to play, he should be on your fantasy roster as well. (Check injury report: knee)
10. Deion Branch (SEA) – He only has about a 50% chance of starting Sunday’s game against the Browns, but if he is cleared to play, he should have a nice day. D. J. Hackett is also scheduled to be back this week, so it may cut into his touches a little. The Cleveland defense ranks a pathetic 31st in stopping the pass.Watch his progress carefully throughout the week before starting him. (Check injury report: foot)
11. Larry Fitzgerald (ARI) – While Fitzgerald has had trouble finding the end zone, he does lead the NFC in receptions with 46 and receiving yards with 642. Despite only 1 TD this season, he is a scoring threat any week. He is a solid start again this week.
12. Brandon Marshall (DEN) – He should see plenty of passes come his way this week against the Lions 30th ranked pass defense. Expect a very solid outing from Marshall at the very least.
13. Donald Driver (GB) – Driver has been kept pretty quiet in recent weeks as Favre has tried to spread the ball around more. He is too talented and too important to this offense to continue with lack luster performances. He is the guy Favre calls on when things get tough, and that could be the case this week against the Chiefs. We like his chances to bounce back with a solid game in week 9.
14. Hines Ward (PIT) – He has been hot since returning from injury. Ward has had at least 7 catches in his last 2 games, and managed to find the end zone, not once, but twice last week. He has had decent success against the Ravens defense in the past, so the match up should not be a big issue.
15. Roy Williams (DET) – The Detroit passing game has slowed considerably in the last few weeks, but Williams remains their biggest threat, and had a solid week 8. He should be targeted often by Kitna, and should, therefore, be in your starting line up.
16. Jerricho Cotchery (NYJ) – He has been a steady fantasy performer throughout the season, but he has yet to produce that monster game. If it is going to happen, this could be the week. Laveranues Coles is likely to be out this week, so that leaves Cotchery to pick up the slack. He is still a risky proposition against a good Redskins secondary with a brand new QB, but we like his chances for a good game.
17. Joey Galloway (TB) – He appears to back in the good graces of QB Jeff Garcia, and it showed last week with a big performance. Galloway should have another nice week against the Cards, and should be in your fantasy line up.
18. Steve Smith (CAR) – He continues to show a great deal of inconsistency, especially with David Carr at QB. We all know what he is capable of, and he was tremendous in his last meeting against the Titans, but he has shown just as much potential for let-down as he has success this season. He is too talented to not be in your fantasy line up this week, but it is hard to say for sure what you will get.
19. Chris Chambers (SD) – He had a nice first game with his new team in week 8. Despite only 2 catches on the day, Chambers was able to haul in his first TD of the season. He is still getting acclimated with his team mates, but as he develops chemistry, his numbers should only improve. Chambers has a great match up against the NFL’s worst pass defense this week. He could have a big day.
20. Lee Evans (BUF) – He appears to be turning the corner on an awful beginning to the ’07 season. Evans has performed well in two consecutive games now, and faces a promising match up against a weak Bengals secondary. Despite showing signs of being on track, Evans is a little risky, but you should give him the start this week.
21. Marques Colston (NO) – As soon as you start to give up on a guy, he blows up, and that was the case with Colston in week 8. Colston has the potential to be a top 5 fantasy producer any week, but even with last week’s top flight performance, he remains risky and inconsistent. He is a high-risk high-reward player, and last week proves that you can’t afford to leave him off your starting roster. This week’s contest against the Jaguars and CB RaShean Mathis will be tough.
22. Derrick Mason (BAL) – He continues to perform at a high level each week with little regard. Mason has been one of the best receivers in the NFL in terms of receptions and yardage, and has been about as consistent as you could ask for in a fantasy WR. He will likely have a tough go of it against the Steelers this week, but you can not right this guy off any week, against any opponent.
23. Dwayne Bowe (KC) – Bowe has been one of the few bright spots in the Chiefs offense this season. He has big play potential, but he is still learning. He has the opportunity for a nice game against the Packers 22nd ranked pass D.
24. Kevin Curtis (PHI) – He is starting to develop solid chemistry with Donovan McNabb, and is starting to develop some consistency in his numbers. Curtis remains a slight risk for your starting line up, but he should have a good performance this week against Dallas.
25. Kevin Walter (HOU) – He continues to perform at a high and consistent level each week. He is a favorite target of Sage Rosenfels who is likely to be the starter this week, so expect Walter to continue his solid play.
26. Santonio Holmes (PIT) – Holmes has had at least 6 catches in his last 3 starts. When you add 3 TD’s over that same stretch, you have a very productive fantasy WR. He faces a tough Ravens defense in week 9, so his numbers may slip a bit this week, but he should still be a strong consideration for any fantasy line up.
27. Laveranues Coles (NYJ) – It looks highly unlikely that Coles will be in the Jets starting line up this Sunday, and even if he does play, he will likely be limited. He has big game potential any week, but you would be best served to use him this week only if he is given a completely clean bill of health. (Check injury report: concussion)
28. Roddy White (ATL) – He is likely to be matched up against shut down CB Nate Clements for most of the game, but even Clements has been fairly ineffective in recent weeks in a declining 49er secondary. White has had a solid season, and shown good consistency in his last few games. He may be worth a look in week 9.
29. Greg Jennings (GB) – He was a savior for many fantasy owners last week, myself included, with his 82 yard TD catch in overtime on Monday night. He is unlikely to repeat his 141 yard performance against the Chiefs, but he makes for a solid addition to any fantasy line up as a #2 or 3 WR.
30. Donte’ Stallworth (NE) – He has had a season full of peaks and valleys. Stallworth has a difficult match up against the Colts top ranked pass defense, but he can explode any week, so long as he does not get lost in the shuffle, he should have a nice game.
31. Patrick Crayton (DAL) – This guy is a bit of a wild card. He has proven to have big game potential, but he can also go silent any week. The Eagles will present Crayton with a big challenge, but he has the tools to make things happen. He is a high risk-high reward guy for week 9.
32. Reggie Brown (PHI) – Brown was very quiet through the first few weeks of his ’07 campaign, but he is starting to turn his season around. He has definitely increased his role in the Eagles offense, and could have another strong effort against the Cowboys. (Check injury report: neck)
33. Bobby Engram (SEA) – If Deion Branch is deemed unready to play in week 9, Engram should be in your starting line up without question. Engram has put together a nice stretch of games in Branch’s stead, and he has a great match up this week against the Browns. Even if Branch does start, Engram is still a pretty good option this week.
33b. Update: D.J. Hackett (SEA) - Hackett is scheduled to return to the line up this week after missing pretty much the entire season. It is hard to say what effect he will have as a fantasy receiver and on the other Seattle receivers given that it is his first game in a long time. Hackett is very talented, but he is likely to be a bit rusty, and will likely play a limited role this week. He is worth a shot if you are in need, but we suggest giving him a week or two to see where he is at.
34. Calvin Johnson (DET) – He is a proven talent that can strike big any given week, but Johnson sometimes gets lost in the rotating carousel of Lions receivers. The Lions passing game has seen a big decline in recent weeks, and they will probably concentrate more on the run again this week. Johnson is a risky start, but he may be worth rolling the dice on in week 9. (Check injury report: back)
35. Brandon Stokley (DEN) – Stokley has really picked his game up in recent weeks, becoming one of Jay Cutler’s favorite targets. He has a great match up against Detroit’s 30th ranked pass defense.
36. Ronald Curry (OAK) – Curry has seen his fair share of ups and downs this season. He has a decent match up against Houston this week, but may be limited with a foot injury. He is not one of your better options for week 9, but you could do much worse. (Check injury report: foot)
37. Ike Hilliard (TB) – He had been on a pretty nice run, but Hilliard finally stepped away from the limelight in week 8. Hilliard has proven he has fantasy value, and could be a decent addition to your starting roster as a #3 WR this week. (Check injury report: calf)
38. James Jones (GB) – If he were more consistent, Jones would be a top flight fantasy WR. The fact is that he is far from consistent. He is a burner, and capable of making big plays, so he makes for a great #3 or fill in receiver for your roster.
39. Shaun McDonald (DET) – He has failed to find the end zone in 3 straight games, but McDonald is targeted fairly often, and is great in the red zone. He will be a good #3 or bye week replacement in week 9.
40. Santana Moss (WAS) – Moss made an appearance in the Redskins passing attack for the first time in weeks with 6 catches. While he has proven to be very unreliable, week 8 was a step in the right direction. Moss has a promising match up this week against the Jets.
41. Arnaz Battle (SF) – He has a good match up against the Falcons this week, but with the 49ers passing game performing like a ’78 Plymouth with a clogged carburetor, you can not expect much.
42. Antwaan Randle El (WAS) – You can always count on him to give you some level of production. Unfortunately, it’s usually on the lower end of the spectrum. Great match up against the Jets, so he should provide a little more than his usual.
43. Andre Davis (HOU) – Davis is questionable this week with a chest injury. He was held to just one catch last week, and seems to be pretty beat up. If he plays, he should be a #3 guy on your roster at best. (Check injury report: chest)
44. Vincent Jackson (SD) – He was shut out in week 8, as the Chargers had little need for his services. Jackson should see more action this week against the Vikings cellar dwelling pass defense. He could have a nice game, but do not count on it. He has made a habit of letting down fantasy owners most of the season.
45. Andre Johnson (HOU) – There is a slight possibility that he could be back on the field this week against Oakland. If he plays, it will likely be in a limited role, so you would be safer not starting him. However, there is always a chance he could start and play the whole game, in which case, he has big game potential, even at 85%. You may want to roll the dice with him, but we suggest giving him more time. (Check injury report: knee)
46. Jacoby Jones (HOU) – He had a solid week 8 with 5 catches for 51 yards. There is a decent chance that he could be in the starting line up this week, so he may be worth a look. Jones has game breaking speed and strong upside. This could be his week.
47. Joe Jurevicius (CLE) – Although he failed to snag one of his signature TD’s last week, Jurevicius did provide a spark in the Browns passing game with season highs in receptions and yards. Despite the solid week, Jurevicius should remain a bye week or emergency starter in your fantasy line up.
48. Jerry Porter (OAK) – Porter has had a couple of nice games this season, but he is a mediocre fantasy WR over all. The return of Josh McCown at QB also does not bode well for Porter, whose better games have been with Culpepper under center.
49. Mark Clayton (BAL) – He has had a disappointing season to say the least, but much of his downfall has been injury related. Clayton looks to be completely healthy, and is coming off of his best game of the season. We really like the match up against the Bills, so he may be worth taking a chance on in week 9.
50. David Patten (NO) – He has gone for over 100 yards in 2 out of his last 3 games, but the bottom line is that this guy is a huge risk. Patten is all or nothing, so if you are willing to roll the dice, it just might pay off, but you could get stuck with a goose egg.
* Other notable WR options for week 9 include: Darrell Jackson (SF), Mike Furrey (DET), Michael Jenkins (ATL), Brad Smith (NYJ), Brandon Jones (TEN), Eddie Kennison (KC), Nate Burleson (SEA), Roydell Williams (TEN), Bobby Wade (MIN), Dennis Northcutt (JAC), Josh Reed (BUF), and Demetrius Williams (BAL)
WEEK 9 TE RANKINGS (2007)
1. Antonio Gates (SD) – He remains the undisputed champion of tight ends, and Gates will be facing the worst pass defense in the NFL this week in Minnesota. He is a must start.
2. Jason Witten (DAL) – Witten has a pretty solid track record against the Eagles, and he is having one of his best seasons to date. Look for another big game in week 9. You should start him with confidence
3. Kellen Winslow (CLE) – He only managed 2 catches last week against St. Louis, but luckily, one of them went for a score. Winslow is too talented and too important to this offense. He should be in your starting line up without question.
4. Tony Gonzalez (KC) – He should be well rested, and poised to do some damage coming off a bye week. Gonzalez remains one of the best fantasy TE’s out there. He has a favorable match up against a Packers team that struggles against tight ends.
5. Chris Cooley (WAS) – He remains one of Jason Campbell’s favorite targets, especially in the red zone. Cooley has 5 TD’s in his last 6 games, and has a very promising match up against a poor Jets defense.
6. Dallas Clark (IND) – Clark has a big challenge ahead of him this week against New England; a team he has struggled against in the past. He is also coming off a tough week 8, where he only had 2 catches. Although the odds seem stacked against him, Clark should be heavily involved in the Colts game plan this week. He remains one of the best TE options out there, and should definitely be in your line up.
7. Heath Miller (PIT) – This week’s match up against the Ravens will be a tough one, but Miller is having a solid season, and has had success against Baltimore in the past. Miller should be your starter on Monday night.
8. Todd Heap (BAL) – He should be in the starting line up this week when the Ravens strap up against Pittsburgh. It is a tough match up, but Heap will be a welcome addition to a Baltimore offense that has struggled to find the end zone of late. He should be targeted often, and barring a setback with his hamstring, Heap should be on your starting roster in week 9. (Check injury report: hamstring)
9. Tony Scheffler (DEN) – Since returning from injury, he has been a top red zone target for Jay Cutler. Scheffler has established himself as a legit scoring threat, and could have a big game against the Lions 30th ranked pass defense.
10. Vernon Davis (SF) – In his second game back from injury, Davis posted his best game of the season last week. As talented as he is, Davis can not be considered a reliable fantasy TE until he can stay healthy, and produce on a consistent basis. He has a favorable week 9 match up against an Atlanta defense that has had trouble containing tight ends this season.
11. Ben Watson (NE) – He returned to practice on Wednesday, and it appears that he will likely play this week against Indianapolis. Watson has been hot and cold this season, but if he is in the starting line up; he should be involved in the Patriots game plan. He is always a candidate for a TD. (Check injury report: ankle)
12. Donald Lee (GB) – He is not one of the elite fantasy TE’s out there, but he does offer consistency, and that is something most TE’s can not offer. Lee is unlikely to provide monster numbers for you this week, but he is a lock to get you something.
13. Owen Daniels (HOU) – If healthy, Daniels makes for a decent option this week against the Raiders. He is yet to produce overwhelming numbers, but he is a capable TE. (Check injury report: ankle)
14. Eric Johnson (NO) – He is one of the more inconsistent TE options out there, but Johnson almost always provides something, and is very capable of a huge game any week.
15. Alge Crumpler (ATL) – He has had a disappointing season to say the least. Crumpler is battling multiple injuries, but says he expects to play in week 9. He has yet to do much in the ’07 season, but we all know what he is capable of. If he plays, Crumpler may be worth a shot in your starting line up against San Francisco. (Check injury report: knee and ankle)
16. Jeff King (CAR) – He is coming off a pretty big game against Indy last week with 10 receptions. King has provided fantasy owners with a couple of solid weeks, but he is very unreliable. He is best used as a bye week fill in against the Titans.
17. Bo Scaife (TEN) – He was starting to show some promise while Kerry Collins was subbing at QB. Now that Vince Young is back at the helm, Scaife is falling back into mediocrity. Scaife is not a TE you can rely on, but he is capable of a big game. This week’s match up against Carolina is promising, but do not expect a lot.
18. Zach Miller (OAK) – Although Miller has expanded his role in the Raiders offense, he has yet to have a truly explosive performance. He has the makings of a star TE for the future, but he is still a little shaky for the near future. Start him at your own risk.
19. Will Heller (SEA) – He had two TD’s in his last game against St. Louis, and could be a sleeper for week 9 against a horrible Cleveland defense. There are no guarantees with this guy, but he could be a great bye week fill in.
20. L.J. Smith (PHI) – Smith has spent much of the ’07 season sidelined with injury, and even when he has played; he has produced very little. The good news is that he appears to be completely healthy, and he has a solid history against the Cowboys. He would be a big gamble for your starting line up, but it could pay off.
* Other considerable TE options for week 9 include: Leonard Pope (ARI), Visanthe Shiancoe (MIN), Chris Baker (NYJ), Marcedes Lewis (JAC), and Alex Smith (TB) if healthy
Thursday
WEEK 9 DEFENSE RANKINGS (2007)
1. Pittsburgh (BAL) – This top ranked defense allows fewer points than any other squad in the NFL. In contrast, the Baltimore offense ranks near the bottom of the league in scoring. Throw in the potential for sacks and turnovers, and the Pittsburgh defense should be a lock for your fantasy team in week 9.
2. San Diego (@MIN) – The Charger defense is starting to live up to preseason expectations, giving up an average of 9 points per game in their last three contests. They are strong against the run, and the Vikings passing game is one of the weakest in the NFL, ranking 30th. This defense should have a field day in Minnesota.
3. Tennessee (CAR) –The Titans have had one of the best defensive units all season long, ranking 5th overall. They are looking at a stellar match up against a Carolina offense that has struggled to find the end zone against the better defenses they have faced. The Tennessee defense should have a big day and be in your line up on Sunday.
4. Washington (@NYJ) – This defense was embarrassed last week against New England, but in all fairness, what defense has not been humiliated by the Patriots. They are a much better unit than they showed last week, and this week’s match up against a bad Jets offense in transition should restore your confidence in the Skins D.
5. Baltimore (@PIT) – This will not be one of their easier match ups, but the Ravens defense has had two weeks to prepare, and should be up to the challenge. They rank among the league’s elite in practically every defensive category. This is likely to be a low scoring, defensive shootout, and the Baltimore D should make for a great contributor to your fantasy squad.
6. Tampa Bay (ARI) – This is a good match up for the NFL’s 8th ranked defense. With Kurt Warner battling injury, the Bucs defense should have a strong game against Arizona.
7. Green Bay (@KC) – The Packers have a pretty average defense overall, but their strong point is that they do not give up a lot of points. They face a Kansas City offense that only scores an average of 14.6 points per game. Toss in a couple of Kampman sacks, a turnover or two, and the stage is set for a solid showing by the Green Bay defense.
8. Dallas (@PHI) – Outside of the Detroit game, the Philadelphia offense has been far from stellar. They should have a tough go of it against the Cowboys 6th ranked defense.
9. Carolina (@TEN) – We realize that the Panthers defense has been on the decline since opening day, but they face a Tennessee offense that is showing no sign of a passing game, and consistently struggles to find the end zone. This should be an ugly low scoring affair, which offers this defense a good opportunity to rebound.
10. Oakland (HOU) – They have a great match up against a declining and beat up Houston offense. The Raiders defense is starting to play well, and has allowed no more than 13 points in their last two games. They should make for a nice start in week 9.
11. Jacksonville (@NO) – It may not show up on paper, but this is one of the best defenses in the NFL. They should probably be in your starting line up this week, but they face a tough New Orleans offense that is starting to get their swagger back. As much as we like the Jaguar defense, this will be a bigger test than people think.
12. Kansas City (GB) – This is a solid defense that ranks 6th in points allowed. They face a flashy Green Bay offense this week, but the Chiefs D should be able to hold their own at home.
13. Atlanta (SF) – This may seem like a high ranking for a defense of this quality, but when you look at the scenario, it makes sense. They match up against a bad 49ers offense that only averages around 12 points a game, and they are at home. The Falcons defense should have one of their better weeks, so they could be a nice bye week fill in, if they are available in your league.
14. Denver (@DET) – This defense could be a little risky this week, but they match up pretty well against the Lions. If they can slow Kevin Jones, the Broncos D should have a decent game.
15. New Orleans (JAC) – Believe it or not, this is a top 10 defense against the run, and with David Garrard out again this week, Jacksonville could struggle on offense. This is still a dangerous game for the Saints defense, but we like their chances.
16. Seattle (@CLE) – This will be a tough match up against one of the league’s hottest offenses in Cleveland. The Seahawks defense ranks an impressive 3rd in points allowed, but they are probably not one of your better options this week.
17. New England (@IND) – This is one of the best defenses in the NFL, but a match up with the Colts in Indianapolis will be a huge test. This is a dangerous week to start the Patriots defense.
18. Philadelphia (DAL) – The Eagles have a very solid defense, but week 9 will provide a monster challenge in the form of the potent Cowboys offense. This may not be the best week to have them in your starting line up.
19. Houston (@OAK) – The Texans have been the worst defense in the NFL in recent weeks. They have a promising match up this week against a struggling Raiders offense, but we find it very difficult to recommend the Houston defense for your week 9 line up.
20. Minnesota (SD) – If they can reasonably contain L.T., they should stay in the game, but it is tough to recommend starting a defense that ranks last against the pass and 27th overall versus a hot Chargers offense.
21. Arizona (@TB) – The Cardinals defense is pretty solid between the 20’s, but they give up too many points to be an effective fantasy squad. They face a very efficient Tampa offense that could give them problems this week.
22. Detroit (DEN) – They have a fair match up against Denver this week. Unfortunately, they rank near the bottom in almost every defensive category. The Lions defense seems to be improving, but they are a long way from being good.
23. San Francisco (@ATL) – This is not a bad match up for the Niners defense against the Falcons, but they have been struggling as of late. Without a healthy contribution from the offense, the San Fran D is dead in the water once again.
24. Cincinnati (@BUF) – Fortunately, the Bills offense struggles to score points against almost any defense. Unfortunately, the Bengals defense is awful, and should not even be owned, much less on your starting roster.
25. NY Jets (WAS) – They face a very inconsistent Redskins offense this week, but the bottom line is that the Jets defense is one of the worst in the NFL.
26. Indianapolis (NE) – The Colts have one of the better defenses in the league this year, but we find it hard to believe that they can contain the Patriots offense. This would be a perfect week to let them rest on the bench of your fantasy roster.
27. Buffalo (CIN) – They have shown a vast improvement over the course of the season, but the Bengals offense is way too dangerous. We suggest you give the Bills defense the week off.
28. Cleveland (SEA) – If you have this defense, drop them immediately.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
