Week 12: Game Day Decisions

The following players will be ACTIVE in week 12:
RB - Adrian Peterson (MIN) - expected to play, but nothing official yet
RB - Michael Turner (ATL)
RB - Steven Jackson (STL)
RB - Jamal Lewis (CLE)
RB - Steve Slaton (HOU)
RB - Jerious Norwood (ATL)
WR - Steve Smith (CAR)
WR - Laveranues Coles (CIN)
WR - Bernard Berrian (MIN)

The following players will NOT BE ACTIVE for week 12:
QB - Ben Roethlisberger (PIT)
QB - Marc Bulger (STL)
RB - Cedric Benson (CIN)
RB - Julius Jones (SEA)
RB - Ladell Betts (WAS)
RB - Clinton Portis (WAS)
TE - Robert Royal (CLE)

Fantasy Football QB Start/Sit Rankings (Week 12)

*Rankings with detailed comments will be available Friday. Any additional updates that are necessary will be posted no later than Saturday in the final Week 12 (2009) rankings.

1. Aaron Rodgers (GB) – He managed to live up to his billing as our top ranked fantasy QB for week 12 with a stellar Turkey Day effort against Detroit. Rodgers threw for an impressive 348 yards with 3 TDs and no interceptions. He is a must start fantasy option each and every week.

2. Peyton Manning (IND) – While he was fairly unspectacular by Peyton Manning standards in his week 9 meeting with Houston, his overall track record against the Texans is exemplary. In addition, Manning rarely if ever puts up average numbers against a team twice in the same season. At the very least, this is a fail safe match up against a very average pass defense. Manning has been hampered by a glute injury this week, but he is expected to play and we seriously doubt a strained “butt” muscle will have much, if any, effect on his play. Check injury report: glute (probable, full practice Friday)

3. Tom Brady (NE) – It may not be an ideal match up for Brady in week 12 against a stingy Saints pass defense, but this game should turn into a shootout through the air and Brady tends to thrive in such match ups. New Orleans has yet to face a truly potent passing attack all season and they will face one of the best in the NFL in week 12. Start the red hot Brady with confidence as usual and expect no less than solid results.

4. Drew Brees (NO) – On paper, a week 12 match up against a very solid Patriots pass defense does not bode extremely well, but Brees is not your average signal caller and a similarly talented Peyton Manning torched the New England secondary just a couple of weeks ago. In addition, this game is likely to turn into a shootout through the air which typically translates into big fantasy points for QBs.

5. Brett Favre (MIN) – In 5 home games this season, Favre has been near flawless, averaging 283 yards per game with 13 TDs and just 1 interception. That bodes extremely well considering Favre’s week 12 match up against a mediocre Bears pass defense is at home. There are only 5 teams in the NFL that have given up more TDs via the passing game than Chicago and the Bears give up the 11th most fantasy points to opposing QBs. At the very least, expect solid production from Favre with this favorable match up at home.

6. Phillip Rivers (SD) – While Rivers can be inconsistent at times, the odds of him being off of his game in week 12 are slim to none. In his last 3 games against Kansas City, Rivers is averaging 310 passing yards per game with no less than 2 TDs in any of those contests. In a week 7 meeting with the Chiefs, Rivers threw for 268 yards with 3 TDs and 0 interceptions. The Chiefs rank just 28^th in the NFL in pass defense and they have been very generous to opposing QBs all season. Logic and the numbers alike suggest a very promising week for the talented signal caller and Rivers is a must start fantasy option.

7. Kurt Warner (ARI) – He was having yet another stellar fantasy day in week 11 against St. Louis before getting his bell rung and having to pre-maturely leave the game. The good news is that Warner has been cleared to play in week 12 against Tennessee and based on his numbers of late, we expect him to play very well. While the Titans have shown considerable improvement against the pass over their last few games, they are still vulnerable and the potent Cardinals passing attack should prove to be more than they can handle. It is safe to insert Warner into week 12 fantasy line ups with confidence. Check injury report: head (very questionable)

8. Matt Schaub (HOU) – It has only been 3 weeks since he last faced the Colts. In that week 9 contest, Schaub threw 2 interceptions, but the good news is that he set a precedent for potential success against the Indy defense by throwing for 311 yards and a TD in that game. He has also set a solid precedent for success in general by averaging close to 300 yards and 2 TDs per game so far this season. The match up isn’t extremely favorable against a fairly solid Colts pass defense, but for obvious reasons, we like Schaub’s chances for a strong performance at home in week 12.

9. Carson Palmer (CIN) – He has had some very shaky performances throughout the season and it is safe to say that Palmer has underachieved from a fantasy standpoint. That said, you have to like his chances against the Browns in week 12. Cleveland ranks just 26^th in the NFL against the pass and there are only 6 teams in the league that give up more fantasy points to opposing QBs on a weekly basis. In week 4, Palmer totaled 250 yards and threw for 2 TDs against them in Cleveland. It seems logical that he will fare even better against them this time around at home. Palmer should make for a solid starting option for week 12 fantasy line ups.

10. Ben Roethlisberger (PIT) – He was forced to leave his week 11 match up against Kansas City a bit earlier than he would have liked with a slight concussion, but Big Ben had already inflicted plenty of damage in his own right, throwing for close to 400 yards and 3 scores in that contest. The good news is that he has been cleared to play in week 12 and while the match up isn’t ideal, Roethlisberger should be solid against a mediocre Ravens secondary that ranks just 17^th in the NFL in pass defense. UPDATE: The latest report is that Roethlisberger has been experiencing headaches related to the concussion he suffered in week 11 and therefore, he will not play in week 12 against Baltimore. Check injury report: concussion (out for week 12)

11. Matt Ryan (ATL) – The struggling second year signal caller returned to form in week 11 against the Giants and a week 12 match up against Tampa Bay holds promise to keep him on the right track. Only 3 teams in the NFL have given up more fantasy production to opposing QBs than the Buccaneers. Ryan qualifies as a low end QB1 or high end QB2 with this favorable match up.

12. Matt Hasselbeck (SEA) – He has seen a steady decline in fantasy production over the last 4 weeks, but Hasselbeck should get back on track with a favorable week 12 match up against a shaky St. Louis pass defense. The Rams rank just 24^th in the NFL in pass defense and rank in the top 5 in the league in terms of fantasy points allowed to opposing QBs.

13. Alex Smith (SF) – There are safer fantasy options at the QB position for week 12, but we really like Smith’s chances against a road weary Jacksonville defense in this match up. The Jaguars have one of the worst pass defenses in the NFL and Smith has plenty of weapons to pick them apart.

14. Donovan McNabb (PHI) – McNabb is certainly capable of torching any defense he faces, but his track record against Washington over the last couple of seasons is fairly poor and the Skins currently rank 1^st in the NFL in pass defense.

15. Tony Romo (DAL) – He was finally able to break out of a 3 game slump by torching a fairly solid Raiders pass defense on Thanksgiving Day. He threw for 309 yards with 2 TDs and no interceptions. While this was an encouraging performance, Romo will have his work cut out for him with tough match ups over the next few weeks.

16. Eli Manning (NYG) – He appeared to be back on track following a big week 11 performance against Atlanta, but it was not meant to be in week 12 as Manning struggled badly against a stout Denver defense on Turkey Day. He threw for 230 yards, but failed to throw a single TD pass while being picked off once and sacked 3 times. Manning’s fantasy value took a significant blow with this sub par performance.

17. Jay Cutler (CHI) – There is potential for success against a suspect Vikings secondary in week 12. Unfortunately, the potential for disaster is equally prevalent any time Cutler steps under center these days.

18. Vince Young (TEN) – He isn’t going to torch anyone, but the match up against Arizona at home is somewhat favorable and Young has four consecutive double digit fantasy performances to his credit.

19. David Garrard (JAC) – The week 12 match up against the 49ers has its favorable qualities, but Garrard’s performances in road games so far this season can best be described as lousy and he has been especially lousy in long distance road games.

20. Kyle Orton (DEN) – He was far from amazing on Thursday night against the Giants, but all things considered, Orton had a decent performance throwing for 245 yards, 1TD and 1 interception. At the very least, it was an encouraging effort heading into a promising week 13 match up against Kansas City.

21. Joe Flacco (BAL) – He is the kind of QB that can put up big numbers when you least expect it, but he hasn’t thrown a single TD pass since week 8 and a week 12 match up against Pittsburgh is less than favorable.

22. Ryan Fitzpatrick (BUF) – While Fitzpatrick is far from being a trustworthy fantasy option, there is some sleeper value here. Fitzpatrick finally got on the same page with Terrell Owens last week and if they can maintain that chemistry against a fairly generous Miami pass defense in week 12, it could be a productive afternoon for both players. That said, don’t bet the farm on it.

23. Matt Cassel (KC) – He has some strong fantasy performances to his credit this season, but week 7 against San Diego is far from being one of them. Cassel should fare better against the Chargers this time around, but your week 12 fantasy roster will likely be better off with him on the bench.

24. Josh Freeman (TB) – There is some potential for success against a suspect Falcons secondary in week 12, but the rookie signal caller is still a shaky fantasy play and a long shot to do any real damage.

25. Jason Campbell (WAS) –You may be surprised to know that Campbell had his 2^nd best fantasy effort of the season against a solid Eagles pass defense back in week 7. Unfortunately, we can not envision a repeat of that success in the week 12 rematch being played in Philadelphia.

Fantasy Football Wide Receiver Start/Sit Rankings (Week 12)

1. Andre Johnson (HOU) – Based solely on the fact that Johnson was able to rack up 10 catches for 103 yards against the Colts in Indianapolis just 3 weeks ago, you have to love his chances for a big performance this time around at home.

2. Randy Moss (NE) – He can be hit or miss in terms of reception and yardage totals, but you won’t find a better fantasy receiver with regard to TD potential. His week 12 match up against the Saints has some drawbacks, but this game should turn into a shootout through the air and Moss always seems come out smelling like roses in these types of games.

3. Reggie Wayne (IND) – His numbers were fairly mediocre against Houston in week 9, but the odds of the Texans being able to limit the talented receiver twice in the same season are slim to none. Wayne is a must start WR1 for week 12. Check injury report: foot (probable)

4. Larry Fitzgerald (ARI) – He has been playing at a top flight level over the last 3 weeks and while the Titans secondary has shown obvious improvement in their own right of late, they should prove to be no match for the elite Fitzgerald.

5. Vincent Jackson (SD) – While he has struggled in his last 2 games, nothing says slump buster like a week 12 match up against Kansas City. The Chiefs have one of the more fantasy friendly pass defenses in the NFL and Jackson torched them for 142 yards and a score just a few short weeks ago. Jackson should bounce back in a big way with this favorable match up. Check injury report: ribs (probable)

6. Sidney Rice (MIN) – He has entrenched himself amongst the fantasy elite this season with one monster performance after another and we love his chances to solidify that status in week 12 against a suspect Chicago secondary. Only 8 teams in the NFL have allowed more fantasy production to opposing WRs than the Bears.

7. Wes Welker (NE) – He is a virtual lock for solid fantasy production each and every week. Expect nothing less in week 12 against the Saints.

8. Anquan Boldin (ARI) – While injuries and playing in the shadow of Larry Fitzgerald have tarnished Boldin’s reputation as a stud fantasy option, we still believe that he is as capable as any WR in the NFL when healthy. The good news is that he is healthy and his numbers over the last couple of weeks show it. Ride the hot hand into a favorable week 12 match against Tennessee.

9. Chad Ochocinco (CIN) – Conditions are very favorable for Ochocinco to break out of his recent funk with a promising week 12 match up against a very poor Browns pass defense. Cleveland did limit Ocho to just 3 receptions for 24 yards in a week 4 meeting, but 2 of those receptions went for TDs.

10. Greg Jennings (GB) – We had high hopes for Jennings on Turkey Day, especially after his big week 11 performance. Unfortunately, it wasn’t meant to be as Donald Driver stole his thunder once again. Jennings just managed a pedestrian like 53 yards on 4 receptions against a terrible Lions secondary. He looks to be a very hit or miss fantasy option moving forward.

11. Roddy White (ATL) – vs. TB Check injury report: knee (probable)

12. Donald Driver (GB) - @ DET

13. Mike Sims-Walker (JAC) - @ SF Check injury report: knee (probable)

14. Nate Burleson (SEA) - @ STL

15. Marques Colston (NO) – vs. NE

16. DeSean Jackson (PHI) – vs. WAS

17. Pierre Garcon (IND) - @ HOU Check injury report: ankle (probable)

18. Steve Smith (NYG) - @ DEN

19. T.J. Houshmandzadeh (SEA) - @ STL

20. Miles Austin (DAL) – vs. OAK

21. Brandon Marshall (DEN) – vs. NYG

22. Michael Crabtree (SF) – vs. JAC

23. Derrick Mason (BAL) – vs. PIT

24. Hines Ward (PIT) - @ BAL Ben Roethlisberger will not play in week 12, rankings adjusted as a result

25. Chris Chambers (KC) - @ SD

26. Percy Harvin (MIN) – vs. CHI Check injury report: illness (probable)

27. Jerricho Cotchery (NYJ) – vs. CAR

28. Terrell Owens (BUF) – vs. MIA

29. Devin Hester (CHI) - @ MIN

30. Steve Smith (CAR) - @ NYJ

31. Jeremy Maclin (PHI) – vs. WAS

32. Santonio Holmes (PIT) - @ BAL - Ben Roethlisberger will not play in week 12, rankings adjusted as a result

33. Robert Meachem (NO) – vs. NE

34. Mario Manningham (NYG) - @ DEN

35. Donnie Avery (STL) – vs. SEA

36. Lee Evans (BUF) – vs. MIA

37. Steve Breaston (ARI) - @ TEN Check injury report: knee (probable)

38. Santana Moss (WAS) - @ PHI

39. Nate Washington (TEN) – vs. ARI

40. Hakeem Nicks (NYG) - @ DEN

41. Laveranues Coles (CIN) – vs. CLE Check injury report: chest (questionable)

42. Braylon Edwards (NYJ) – vs. CAR

43. Roy Williams (DAL) – vs. OAK

44. Antonio Bryant (TB) - @ ATL

45. Dennis Northcutt (DET) – vs. GB

46. Devery Henderson (NO) – vs. NE

47. Mike Wallace (PIT) - @ BAL Ben Roethlisberger will not play in week 12 which may impact Wallace's fantasy value

48. Kevin Walter (HOU) – vs. IND

49. Bernard Berrian (MIN) – vs. CHI Check injury report: hamstring (probable)

50. Jason Avant (PHI) – vs. WAS

*Additional WR options for week 12 include:

Austin Collie (IND) - @ HOU

Brandon Gibson (STL) – vs. SEA

Kenny Britt (TEN) – vs. ARI

Davone Bess (MIA) - @ BUF

Patrick Crayton (DAL) – vs. OAK

Mohamed Massaquoi (CLE) - @ CIN

Bryant Johnson (DET) – vs. GB

Andre Caldwell (CIN) vs. CLE

Jordy Nelson (GB) - @ DET

James Jones (GB) - @ DET

Malcolm Floyd (SD) – vs. KC

Eddie Royal (DEN) – vs. NYG

Earl Bennett (CHI) - @ MIN

Michael Jenkins (ATL) – vs. TB

Josh Morgan (SF) – vs. JAC

Muhsin Muhammad (CAR) - @ NYJ

Torry Holt (JAC) - @ SF

Johnny Knox (CHI) - @ MIN

Bobby Wade (KC) - @ SD

Mark Clayton (BAL) – vs. PIT

Fantasy Football Running Back Start/Sit Rankings (Week 12)

1. Chris Johnson (TEN) – At this point in the season, there is not a more desirable fantasy option in the NFL than Chris Johnson. He has proven to be virtually unstoppable of late and on the other side of that spectrum is an Arizona run defense that could not be playing worse at the moment. The Cardinals do rank an impressive 8^th in the NFL against the run for the season, but that ranking is very deceiving when you consider that they have been absolutely torched by opposing RBs in their last 4 games. Johnson is an obvious must start for week 12.

2. Ricky Williams (MIA) – He took full advantage of his new role as Miami’s featured RB with a monster performance in week 11. You can likely expect more of the same in week 12 as Williams will face the most run friendly defense in the NFL. The Bills give up more fantasy points to opposing RBs than any other team in the league. Williams is a no brainer for fantasy rosters with this ultra favorable match up. Check injury report: chest (probable)

3. Adrian Peterson (MIN) – While his availability for week 12 is in question, you can expect nothing short of a top notch effort from Peterson if he plays. Reason being that he has absolutely owned the Bears throughout his short career. In fact, Peterson has averaged 139 rushing yards per game and has 8 TDs in 4 career contests against Chicago. Considering that the 2009 edition of the Bears run defense may be the worst he’s ever faced (currently ranking a lackluster 23^rd in the NFL); we have high hopes for Peterson in this match up. Even at less than 100%, he is still highly recommended for active duty on week 12 fantasy rosters. That said, he will be useless if he does not play, so be sure to monitor his status closely heading into Sunday and have a back up plan in place. Check injury report: ankle (questionable, but expected to play)

4. Maurice Jones-Drew (JAC) – On the surface, a week 12 match up against a 49er run defense that ranks 6^th in the NFL in terms of ground yards allowed does not appear all that fantasy friendly. Fortunately, rushing yards aren’t everything in fantasy football and if you dig a bit deeper, you will find that there are only 10 teams in the NFL that have given up more overall fantasy production to opposing RBs than San Francisco. Reason being, the Niners defense has been fairly generous to opposing RBs this season with regard to TDs and receiving production. This bodes well for Jones-Drew, who just so happens to excel in both of those areas. Check injury report: knee (probable)

5. Thomas Jones (NYJ) – He was not able to find the end zone in week 11 against a stout Patriots run defense on the road, but Jones was still impressive, topping the 100 yard mark for the 4^th time in his last 5 contests. As for week 12, conditions are favorable for a very productive game against a struggling Carolina run defense. The Panthers gave up 3 TDs to Ricky Williams just last week, they rank a poor 26^th in the NFL in run defense and there are only 5 teams in the NFL that give up more fantasy points to opposing RBs. Start Jones with confidence.

6. Steven Jackson (STL) – While Jackson was unable to practice this week with back spasms, he is reportedly on the mend and barring a setback, he should play and play well on Sunday against a middle of the road Seattle run defense that he has had great success against in the past. If Jackson does play, there is always the risk that he could make an early exit as back spasms can be a recurring problem. That said, Jackson has been on fire of late and the potential reward outweighs the risk if he does in fact start this game. Check injury report: back spasms (will play)

7. Ryan Grant (GB) – He was able to exceed the magical 100 total yard mark on Thanksgiving, but Grant’s performance was still a bit disappointing considering the opponent and the fact that he was unable to get into the end zone.

8. DeAngelo Williams (CAR) – He has not been able to find pay dirt in his last 2 contests, but Williams has put up top flight yardage totals in 6 consecutive games now. He should continue that trend with a decent enough match up in week 12 against a middle of the road Jets run defense. While there are no guarantees, Williams is also overdue to get back into the end zone this week as well.

9. Jason Snelling (ATL) – There is still a chance that Michael Turner could start and/or play this week in which case Snelling would become an extremely risky fantasy option at best. That said, if in fact Snelling gets the start in week 12, he could do some serious damage against a Tampa Bay run defense that ranks dead last in the NFL. The Bucs give up close to 170 rushing yards per game and have allowed 12 rushing TDs through 10 games. Be sure to check Turner’s status on Sunday before deciding on Snelling as your starting week 12 fantasy back. UPDATE: Michal Turner is active for week 12, so Snelling is no longer a safe fantasy option this week

10. Frank Gore (SF) – While Gore only touched the football 10 times in week 11, he made the most of those touches by totaling 68 yards and scoring a TD in the receiving game. Gore should get a dramatic boost in his workload this week against a mediocre Jacksonville run defense. Needless to say, we like his chances for a very solid game with this match up.

11. Ray Rice (BAL) – For obvious reasons, a week 12 match up against a top flight Pittsburgh run defense is not ideal. Fortunately, Rice is one of the few fantasy backs that is versatile enough to be productive against the Steelers. He should prove very useful in the passing game as usual and despite the difficult match up; it would not be wise to bench him given his solid track record of consistency throughout the season.

12. Joseph Addai (IND) – He has 5 TDs in his last 3 games and has now scored at least 1 TD in 80% of his games so far this season. Addai should continue that trend in week 12 against a mediocre Houston defense. Just 3 weeks ago, Addai had his best fantasy effort of the season against the Texans by totaling 112 yards and scoring 2 TDs against them.

13. Marion Barber (DAL) – He wasn’t able to find the end zone on Thanksgiving day against the Raiders, but Barber still managed to have a fairly successful day posting 102 all purpose yards. With Felix Jones starting to take on a more prominent role in an already pass heavy Cowboys offense, Barber’s fantasy value looks to be a bit shaky moving forward.

14. LaDainian Tomlinson (SD) – He isn’t blowing opposing defenses away like the vintage L.T., but he is starting to produce solid numbers on a consistent basis. Hopefully, he can continue that trend in week 12 against Kansas City. The match up is definitely favorable as the Chiefs rank just 27^th in the NFL against the run and they give up the 7^th most fantasy points in the NFL to opposing RBs. That said, Tomlinson’s numbers were fairly disappointing against the Chiefs in week 7, so don’t get your hopes up for a monster performance, although he should easily exceed his week 7 totals this time around.

15. Justin Forsett (SEA) – If Julius Jones should be cleared to play, Forsett would immediately drop to RB2 status at best. That being said, Jones was reported to still be experiencing a lot of pain as of Friday and we would be a bit surprised if Forsett was not the featured back on Sunday. If Forsett is lucky enough to take on a featured role in week 12, he should be in for a very productive afternoon against the always fantasy friendly Rams run defense. St. Louis ranks just 28^th in the NFL against the run and they give up the 4^th most fantasy points in the NFL to opposing RBs. Be sure to monitor the status of Julius Jones on Sunday to be on the safe side.

16. Brandon Jacobs (NYG) – Disappointing is not a strong enough word to describe Jacobs’ Thanksgiving performance. Everything seemed to be in place for a successful fantasy outing against a Denver run defense that had been struggling heading into this game. Unfortunately, it was not meant to be as the sluggish Jacobs only managed 57 total yards against the reinvigorated and swarming Broncos defense.

17. LeSean McCoy (PHI) – He has yet to explode with a monster fantasy performance this season, and while we believe the rookie back is capable of such a game, you probably can’t expect to see it this week against Washington. The Redskins do rank an unimpressive 25^th in the NFL in terms of rushing yards allowed, but they are one of the stingier defenses around when it comes to giving up TDs on the ground having allowed just 5 all season. Regardless, McCoy has the potential to put up solid numbers this week and he easily qualifies as a RB2 with this match up.

18. Bernard Scott (CIN) – While a match up against a lousy Cleveland run defense bodes extremely well for the rookie back, Scott does come with a risky tag this week with the possibility that Cedric Benson could return from injury. The good news is that even if Benson does return, Scott should still play a role in the Bengals game plan. The bad news is that no one knows how big that role will be. If Benson turns out to be a game time scratch, Scott instantly gets a major boost in fantasy value and becomes a must start RB1. However, if Benson is active, Scott should be considered a risky RB2 at best. UPDATE: Cedric Benson will not be active, therefore Scott is a must start RB1 this week

19. Jamaal Charles (KC) – Due to the fact that he plays in a lackluster Kansas City offense, Charles is not given the credit he deserves as a fantasy option. The fact is that this guy has already proven to be a very capable fantasy option. He totaled 117 yards and a TD against Oakland in week 10 and his numbers were very respectable against a top flight Pittsburgh defense in week 11. In fact, we are very confident that he can get the job done against a shaky San Diego run defense in week 12 as he averaged 8.3 yards per carry against them back in week 7. Our only concern is that the Chiefs will abandon the running game if the Chargers jump out to a big lead.

20. Laurence Maroney (NE) - In spite of the concerns that go along with starting a New England RB in fantasy football, Maroney seems to have solidified himself as the Patriots go to back (for now) and the results have been very positive over the last few weeks. A week 12 match up against a Saints run defense that has struggled of late is also promising. That being said, New Orleans will be getting a couple of key members of their defense back from injury this week which could make things more difficult and Sammy Morris is also expected back from injury for the Patriots which could cut into Maroney's workload (although we doubt it will be much). Regardless, Maroney makes for a decent RB2 play this week.

21. Chris “Beanie” Wells (ARI) - @ TEN

22. Cedric Benson (CIN) – vs. CLE Check injury report: hip (will not play)

23. Pierre Thomas (NO) – vs. NE

24. Tim Hightower (ARI) - @ TEN

25. Rock Cartwright (WAS) - @ PHI

26. Rashard Mendenhall (PIT) - @ BAL

27. Matt Forte (CHI) - @ MIN

28. Knowshon Moreno (DEN) – vs. NYG

29. Steve Slaton (HOU) – vs. IND Check injury report: neck (probable)

30. Kevin Smith (DET) – vs. GB Check injury report: hip (probable)

31. Jonathan Stewart (CAR) - @ NYJ

32. Carnell “Cadillac” Williams (TB) - @ ATL

33. Fred Jackson (BUF) – vs. MIA

34. Felix Jones (DAL) – vs. OAK

35. Mike Bell (NO) – vs. NE

36. Marshawn Lynch (BUF) – vs. MIA

37. Chris Brown (HOU) – vs. IND

38. Darren Sproles (SD) – vs. KC

39. Reggie Bush (NO) – vs. NE Check injury report: knee (questionable, limited practice Thursday)

40. Jamal Lewis (CLE) - @ CIN Check injury report: ankle (probable)

41. Justin Fargas (OAK) - @ DAL

42. Correll Buckhalter (DEN) – vs. NYG

43. Chester Taylor (MIN) – vs. CHI

44. Danny Ware (NYG) - @ DEN

45. Earnest Graham (TB) - @ ATL

46. Derrick Ward (TB) - @ ATL

47. Donald Brown (IND) - @ HOU

48. Kevin Faulk (NE) - @ NO

49. Darren McFadden (OAK) - @ DAL

50. Julius Jones (SEA) - @ STL Check injury report: lung (will not play)

Fantasy Football Tight End Start/Sit Rankings (Week 12)

Here they are—Tight End Rankings for Week 12 (2009) to help you decide who to start and who to sit on your fantasy football team.

1. Dallas Clark (IND) - @ HOU

2. Tony Gonzalez (ATL) – vs. TB

3. Vernon Davis (SF) – vs. JAC

4. Antonio Gates (SD) – vs. KC

5. Greg Olsen (CHI) - @ MIN

6. Kellen Winslow (TB) - @ ATL Check injury report: knee (listed as questionable, but should play)

7. Visanthe Shiancoe (MIN) – vs. CHI

8. Jermichael Finley (GB) - @ DET

9. Brent Celek (PHI) – vs. WAS

10. Jason Witten (DAL) – vs. OAK Check injury report: foot (questionable game time decision)

11. Kevin Boss (NYG) - @ DEN

12. Jeremy Shockey (NO) – vs. NE

13. Heath Miller (PIT) - @ BAL

14. Zach Miller (OAK) - @ DAL

15. Dustin Keller (NYJ) – vs. CAR

16. Fred Davis (WAS) - @ PHI

17. John Carlson (SEA) - @ STL

18. Brandon Pettigrew (DET) – vs. GB

19. David Thomas (NO) – vs. NE

20. Tony Scheffler (DEN) – vs. NYG

Fantasy Football Defense Start/Sit Rankings (Week 12)

Here they are—Defense Rankings for Week 12 (2009) to help you decide who to start and who to sit on your fantasy football team.

1. Dallas Cowboys – vs. OAK

2. Philadelphia Eagles – vs. WAS

3. Cincinnati Bengals – vs. CLE

4. Minnesota Vikings – vs. CHI

5. Green Bay Packers - @ DET

6. Pittsburgh Steelers - @ BAL

7. San Diego Chargers – vs. KC

8. Baltimore Ravens – vs. PIT

9. Seattle Seahawks - @ STL

10. Miami Dolphins - @ BUF

11. Carolina Panthers - @ NYJ

12. New York Giants - @ DEN

13. Atlanta Falcons – vs. TB

14. New York Jets – vs. CAR

15. San Francisco 49ers – vs. JAC

16. Indianapolis Colts - @ HOU

17. Jacksonville Jaguars - @ SF

18. Washington Redskins - @ PHI

19. New England Patriots - @ NO

20. Oakland Raiders - @ DAL

21. New Orleans Saints – vs. NE

22. Arizona Cardinals - @ TEN

23. Denver Broncos – vs. NYG

24. Tennessee Titans – vs. ARI

25. Buffalo Bills – vs. MIA

Fantasy Football Kicker Start/Sit Rankings (Week 12)

Here they are—Kicker Rankings for Week 12 (2009) to help you decide who to start and who to sit on your fantasy football team.

1. David Akers (PHI) – vs. WAS

2. Ryan Longwell (MIN) – vs. CHI

3. Stephen Gostkowski (NE) - @ NO

4. Mason Crosby (GB) - @ DET

5. John Carney (NO) – vs. NE

6. Nate Kaeding (SD) – vs. KC

7. Lawrence Tynes (NYG) - @ DEN

8. Shayne Graham (CIN) – vs. CLE

9. Jason Elam (ATL) – vs. TB

10. Olindo Mare (SEA) - @ STL

11. Nick Folk (DAL) – vs. OAK

12. Rob Bironas (TEN) – vs. ARI

13. Dan Carpenter (MIA) - @ BUF

14. Jeff Reed (PIT) - @ BAL

15. Robbie Gould (CHI) - @ MIN

16. Billy Cundiff (BAL) – vs. PIT

17. Matt Stover (IND) - @ HOU

18. Joe Nedney (SF) – vs. JAC

19. Kris Brown (HOU) – vs. IND

20. Ryan Succop (KC) - @ SD

Black Friday Deals! Black Friday Deals! Black Friday Deals!

As many of our readers know, we don't try to sell you anything, make you log in, or have pop up ads obscuring our start/sit rankings. (AKA we're basically doing this site because we love fantasy football.) But once a year, we ask you to help us out, by starting your holiday shopping here on our site. So, if you're going to be shopping at Amazon this year, just click on our Black Friday ad above or below. It will take you directly to Amazon's site and their best deals. We get a referral for each person who buys something. But you have to start by clicking the ad on our site. Plus, they really do have some awesome Black Friday deals.

Thanks,

The Mac Bros.

Week 11 Game Time Decisions: Injury Report

The following players are listed as ACTIVE for week 11:
RB - Jamal Lewis (CLE)
RB - Carnell "Cadillac" Williams (TB)
RB - Sammy Morris (NE)
WR - Roddy White (ATL)
WR - Steve Breaston (ARI)
WR - Laveranues Coles (CIN)
WR - Brandon Marshall (DEN)
WR - Pierre Garcon (IND)
WR - Bernard Berrian (MIN)
WR - Antonio Bryant (TB)
WR - Josh Cribbs (CLE)
TE - Jermichael Finley (GB)
TE - Todd Heap (BAL)

The following players will be INACTIVE for week 11:
QB - Kyle Orton (DEN) - active, but will not start
RB - Cedric Benson (CIN) - officially listed as DOUBTFUL, but do not expect him to play
RB - Michael Turner (ATL)
RB - Brian Westbrook (PHI)
RB - Reggie Bush (NO)
RB - Clinton Portis (WAS)
RB - Ronnie Brown (MIA) - out for the remainder of the season
RB - Julius Jones (SEA)
RB - Jerious Norwood (ATL)
WR - Lance Moore (NO)
TE - Chris Cooley (WAS)

Fantasy Football Running Back Start/Sit Rankings (Week 11)

*Rankings with detailed comments will be available Friday. Any additional updates that are necessary will be posted no later than Saturday in the final Week 11 (2009) rankings.

1. Maurice Jones-Drew (JAC) – He is coming off of a great week 10 performance against the Jets that could have been even more impressive had MJD not taken a knee at the 1 yard line to set up the Jags game winning field goal. The questionable move did not sit well with fantasy owners, but Jones-Drew should easily make up for it in week 11 against a pathetic Buffalo run defense. Not only has the Bills defense allowed an NFL worst 14 rushing TDs so far this season, they also rank dead last in the league in rushing yards allowed, giving up a whopping 173 yards per game. As you might expect, this also translates nicely into the fantasy football realm as the Bills give up more fantasy points to opposing RBs on a weekly basis than any other defense in the NFL. Jones-Drew should run wild in week 11.

2. Chris Johnson (TEN) – The last time Johnson faced the Texans back in week 2, he took them to the wood shed racking up 284 all-purpose yards and 3 TDs. While the Texans have improved significantly against the run since that game (ranking 14th in the NFL), they are still no match for the red hot Johnson in week 11. In his last 3 games, Johnson is averaging 210 all-purpose yards per game and has 6 TDs, scoring no less than 2 TDs in any of those contests. You probably can’t expect him to match his week 2 production, but Johnson could very well be in the neighborhood with the kind of momentum he is carrying into this match up.

3. Adrian Peterson (MIN) – He was able to light up the Lions in week 10 and in spite of a slightly bigger challenge against Seattle’s top 10 run defense in week 11, we expect more of the same. On paper the Seahawks have been fairly solid against the run, but in terms of fantasy, only 12 teams in the NFL have given up more production to opposing RBs. It’s also safe to say that Peterson is the best RB they have faced all season, so he should be in for a great game. Needless to say, Peterson is a must start fantasy option for week 11.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE ENTIRE RUNNING BACK START/SIT RANKINGS.

Fantasy Football Quarterback Start/Sit Rankings (Week 11)

*Any additional updates that are necessary will be posted no later than Saturday in the final Week 11 (2009) rankings.

1. Drew Brees (NO) – There really isn’t much to say here. You have one of the NFL’s most dangerous QB’s facing one of the NFL’s most fantasy friendly pass defenses. Brees should light up the Tampa Bay secondary all day and he is a must start fantasy option for this extremely favorable match up in week 11.

2. Peyton Manning (IND) – It wasn’t long ago that a match up against Baltimore would bring cause for serious concern, even for Peyton Manning owners, but this isn’t your old man’s Ravens and Peyton should handle them with ease. Sure, the Ravens rank a respectable 13th in the NFL in pass defense, but those numbers are a bit padded considering that they have already played the inept Browns twice and a Kansas City passing attack that was led by Brodie Croyle at the time. The fact is, that when the Ravens have faced a capable passing attack this season, they have failed miserably and they will face one of the best the NFL has to offer in week 11. Baltimore losing star LB Terrell Suggs with a knee injury should also help Manning’s cause in this match up. For what it’s worth, Manning threw for 271 yards, 3 TDs and 0 interceptions in a game against them last season.

3. Kurt Warner (ARI) – He can be a bit of a wild card, but Warner has been red hot in his last 2 games and a week 11 match up against the Rams holds promise galore. St. Louis ranks just 26th in the NFL in pass defense and only 3 teams give up more fantasy points to opposing QBs on a weekly basis. That should translate into yet another big week for Warner and the Cardinals high powered passing attack.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE ENTIRE TOP 25 QB START/SIT RANKINGS.

Fantasy Football Wide Receiver Start/Sit Rankings (Week 11)

* Any additional updates that are necessary will be posted no later than Saturday in the final week 11 rankings (2009).

1. Andre Johnson (HOU) – No one loves a match up against the Titans more than Andre Johnson. In his last 2 games against Tennessee (1 last season and 1 this season), Johnson has accumulated 21 receptions for 356 yards and 3 TDs. While Tennessee has shown significant improvement in their pass coverage over the last few weeks, you still have to love Johnson’s chances against this secondary. He has a ridiculous track record of success against them and the Titans are still extremely vulnerable against a super elite receiver such as Johnson. He is a no brainer for week 11 fantasy line ups.

2. Larry Fitzgerald (ARI) – You have one of the NFL’s best fantasy receivers facing one of the more generous pass defenses in the NFL. There really isn’t much to say here other than you would be certified crazy to not have Fitzgerald penciled into your week 11 fantasy line up against the Rams.

3. Reggie Wayne (IND) – He is in the midst of a stellar 2009 fantasy campaign and he is also coming off of his best fantasy effort of the season against a top flight Patriots pass defense in week 10. That being said, how can you not like his chances against a mediocre Ravens secondary in week 11?

4. Marques Colston (NO) – Even the great Nostradamus himself could not have predicted such a miserable fantasy performance for Colston against a weak Rams secondary in week 10. Considering Colston had the flu and did not even start the game, you might want to give him a pass on that one as a healthy Marques should make up for it in week 11 against lowly Tampa Bay. The Bucs have allowed 19 passing TDs through the air in just 9 games and they give up the 3rd most fantasy points to WRs in the NFL. He should rebound nicely against this very fantasy friendly secondary.

5. Sidney Rice (MIN) – Not that you can complain, but how exactly does a player rack up 201 yards on 7 receptions and not find the end zone? We will just chalk it up as one of those rare fantasy football mysteries. As for week 11, the conditions should be favorable for Rice to make his way into that elusive end zone on top of having a nice yardage day. The Seahawks rank just 22nd in the NFL in pass defense, they have allowed 14 TDs through the air in just 9 games and they could be without both starting CBs this week due to concussions. You could be in store for yet another installment of the Favre to Rice air show in the Metrodome on Sunday. Who needs the Blue Angels when you can watch that instead?

6. Wes Welker (NE) – With the Jets lock down CB Darrelle Revis paired up against Randy Moss, you can probably expect to treat yourself to an extra helping of Brady to Welker this week. The Jets pass defense is solid across the board, so this match up may not be a cakewalk for Welker either, but as you know, the little man eats tough match ups for breakfast and poops them out in the form of double digit fantasy points every time. He is a must start in week 11, especially in PPR formats.

7. Calvin Johnson (DET) – The knee appears healthy and a week 11 match up against the lowly Browns speaks for itself, so we won’t waste your time with a bunch of facts and figures. After all, it doesn’t take a rocket scientist to figure out that a healthy Megatron should be in your starting fantasy line up every week. However, if you just so happen to be a rocket scientist, we take it as a huge compliment that you would utilize our player analysis and rankings. UPDATE: Johnson was a late add to the Lions injury report with a hand issue, but it is not thought to be serious and he will almost certainly play. Check injury report: hand (probable)

8. Vincent Jackson (SD) – It wouldn’t have been a terrible shock if the Eagles had simply limited Jackson to a mediocre performance in week 10, but 1 catch for 10 yards is almost unfathomable for the big play receiver. While there should be greener pastures ahead in week 11, it doesn’t get much easier for Jackson as he will square off against Champ Bailey and Denver’s 5th ranked pass defense. Jackson was able to find pay dirt against the Broncos in their week 6 meeting, but he was held in check for the most part otherwise, hauling in just 4 passes for 46 yards. This is not a fail safe match up for him, but he is very capable of putting up big numbers against anyone with his home run playmaking ability and he is certainly due to rebound after last week’s debacle.

9. Roddy White (ATL) – He could be in for a challenge this week against a very capable Giants pass defense that has had two weeks to prepare for this match up. That being said, the Giants had been struggling against opposing passing games in the weeks leading up to their bye and they have already allowed 15 TDs through the air in just 9 games, so there is certainly a silver lining here. On top of that, you can’t count out a top flight receiver such as White against anyone. White is still battling some pain in his knee, but he is expected to play and the knee did not seem to limit him much, if at all, in week 10. Check injury report: knee (questionable, but should play)

10. DeSean Jackson (PHI) – As you know, Jackson is a hit or miss fantasy option and in all honesty, you would probably do just as well flipping a coin to decide when he will have a big performance and vice versa. There are certain match ups for him that are more favorable than others, but for the most part, you kind of have to stick him in your line up and hope for the best because Jackson is not a guy that you can afford to bench any week against any opponent. Fortunately, his week 11 match up is favorable against a Bears pass defense that has been fairly generous to opposing WRs so far this season. Chicago has given up the 10th most fantasy points to receivers in the NFL.

11. Anquan Boldin (ARI) – If last week was any indication, Boldin’s ankle is no longer an issue and he should get back to business as usual heading into fantasy football’s playoff run. Boldin has a great week 11 match up against a suspect Rams pass defense that ranks 26th in the NFL. He has a solid history against St. Louis and Boldin should make for a great fantasy option in week 11.

12. Randy Moss (NE) – He has been on fire of late, but Moss will have to deal with his arch nemesis in week 11 in the form of Jets shut down CB Darrelle Revis. Moss has struggled against Revis every time he has faced him and while Moss vows to get pay back this week, we have some doubt based on his track record. That said, Moss is more than capable of backing up his recent smack talk and an angry Moss is a very dangerous Moss as he will surely be giving it his all this week. If Confucius were alive, he would say to start Moss each and every week regardless of the match up. We are inclined to agree.

13. Steve Smith (NYG) – Plenty of targets and a soft match up against Atlanta’s 28th ranked pass defense should add up to a very solid fantasy effort for Smith in week 11.

14. Hines Ward (PIT) – After a very disappointing week 10 against Cincy, ward should get back on track with a very favorable week 11 match up against the Chiefs. Only 5 teams in the NFL give up more fantasy points to opposing WRs than Kansas City.

15. Steve Smith (CAR) – He is starting to heat up as Smith scored his third TD in 2 weeks in a Thursday night loss to the Dolphins. He also added 87 yards on 7 receptions.

16. Miles Austin (DAL) – You had to know the double teams were coming and they have. A week 11 match up against Washington’s top ranked pass defense will also be difficult to overcome, but the Skins have been vulnerable against the deep ball of late and we are optimistic that Austin will do some damage at home this week.

17. Mike Sims-Walker (JAC) – At first glance, a week 11 match up against one of the stingier pass defenses in the NFL is not all that favorable, but Sims-Walker has been money in home games all season and the Bills have several key injuries in the secondary this week. We like his chances.

18. T.J. Houshmandzadeh (SEA) – Consistency has been a serious issue for Housh so far in 2009, but he is coming off of his best game of the season and a match up against Minnesota is very favorable. The Vikings have been extremely generous against the pass in recent weeks and they will likely be without their best cover CB in Antoine Winfield for this match up. Housh could be in for a big week 11.

19. Chad Ochocinco (CIN) –He has been very quiet of late and a match up against Oakland’s lock down CB Nnamdi Asomugha won’t do him any favors, but Asomugha typically rotates his coverage amongst receivers. For this very reason, #1 receivers have been fairly successful against the Raiders all season. There should be some opportunities for #85 to make some plays in week 11 and get back on track.

20. Donald Driver (GB) – He hasn’t been lighting it up of late, but you know Driver is going to be targeted often by Aaron Rodgers and a week 11 match up against a beat up 49 er pass defense that ranks 29th in the NFL bodes well.

21. Santonio Holmes (PIT) - @ KC
22. Greg Jennings (GB) – vs. SF
23. Nate Burleson (SEA) - @ MIN
24. Devin Hester (CHI) – vs. PHI
25. Lee Evans (BUF) - @ JAC
26. Jerricho Cotchery (NYJ) - @ NE
27. Steve Breaston (ARI) - @ STL Check injury report: knee (probable)
28. Derrick Mason (BAL) – vs. IND
29. Brandon Marshall (DEN) – vs. SD Check injury report: neck (probable)
30. Braylon Edwards (NYJ) - @ NE
31. Percy Harvin (MIN) – vs. SEA
32. Jeremy Maclin (PHI) - @ CHI
33. Roy Williams (DAL) – vs. WAS
34. Pierre Garcon (IND) - @ BAL Check injury report: ankle (questionable)
35. Devery Henderson (NO) - @ TB
36. Michael Crabtree (SF) - @ GB Check injury report: knee (probable)
37. Austin Collie (IND) - @ BAL
38. Mike Wallace (PIT) - @ KC Check injury report: flu (probable)
39. Hakeem Nicks (NYG) – vs. ATL
40. Chris Chambers (KC) – vs. PIT
41. Mario Manningham (NYG) – vs. ATL
42. Kevin Walter (HOU) – vs. TEN
43. Laveranues Coles (CIN) - @ OAK Check injury report: head (probable)
44. Santana Moss (WAS) - @ DAL
45. Donnie Avery (STL) – vs. ARI
46. Nate Washington (TEN) - @ HOU
47. Bernard Berrian (MIN) – vs. SEA Check injury report: hamstring (questionable)
48. Terrell Owens (BUF) - @ JAC
49. Robert Meachem (NO) - @ TB
50. Antonio Bryant (TB) – vs. NO Check injury report: knee (probable)

*Additional noteworthy WRs for week 11 include:
Malcolm Floyd (SD) - @ DEN
Earl Bennett (CHI) – vs. PHI
Muhsin Muhammad (CAR) – vs. MIA
Andre Caldwell (CIN) - @ OAK
Eddie Royal (DEN) – vs. SD
Patrick Crayton (DAL) – vs. WAS
Brandon Gibson (STL) – vs. ARI
Johnny Knox (CHI) – vs. PHI
Kenny Britt (TEN) - @ HOU
Davone Bess (MIA) - @ CAR
Mike Thomas (JAC) – vs. BUF
Torry Holt (JAC) – vs. BUF
Mohamed Massaquoi (CLE) - @ DET
James Jones (GB) – vs. SF
Julian Edelman (NE) – vs. NYJ Check injury report: arm (questionable)
Jason Avant (PHI) - @ CHI
Antwaan Randle El (WAS) - @ DAL
Mark Clayton (BAL) – vs. IND
Joshua Cribbs (CLE) - @ DET Check injury report: head (questionable)
Josh Morgan (SF) - @ GB
Jacoby Jones (HOU) – vs. TEN Check injury report: calf (questionable)
Maurice Stovall (TB) – vs. NO
Michael Jenkins (ATL) - @ NYG
Jordy Nelson (GB) – vs. SF
Lance Long (KC) – vs. PIT

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Fantasy Football Tight End Start/Sit Rankings (Week 11)

Here they are—Tight End Rankings for Week 11 (2009) to help you decide who to start and who to sit on your fantasy football team.

1. Dallas Clark (IND) - @ BAL
2. Tony Gonzalez (ATL) - @ NYG
3. Greg Olsen (CHI) – vs. PHI
4. Brent Celek (PHI) - @ CHI
5. Antonio Gates (SD) - @ DEN Check injury report: foot (probable)
6. Vernon Davis (SF) - @ GB
7. Kellen Winslow (TB) – vs. NO Check injury report: knee (probable)
8. Jeremy Shockey (NO) - @ TB
9. Jason Witten (DAL) – vs. WAS
10. Visanthe Shiancoe (MIN) – vs. SEA
11. John Carlson (SEA) - @ MIN
12. Tony Scheffler (DEN) – vs. SD
13. Heath Miller (PIT) - @ KC
14. Kevin Boss (NYG) – vs. ATL
15. Dustin Keller (NYJ) - @ NE
16. Fred Davis (WAS) - @ DAL
17. Zach Miller (OAK) – vs. CIN
18. Benjamin Watson (NE) – vs. NYJ Check injury report: back (probable)
19. Brandon Pettigrew (DET) – vs. CLE
20. James Casey (HOU) – vs. TEN Check injury report: knee (probable)

Fantasy Football Defense Start/Sit Rankings (Week 11)

Here they are—Defense Rankings for Week 11 (2009) to help you decide who to start and who to sit on your fantasy football team.

1. Pittsburgh Steelers - @ KC
2. Cincinnati Bengals - @ OAK
3. Green Bay Packers – vs. SF
4. Minnesota Vikings – vs. SEA
5. Dallas Cowboys – vs. WAS
6. Philadelphia Eagles - @ CHI
7. New Orleans Saints - @ TB
8. Arizona Cardinals - @ STL
9. New England Patriots – vs. NYJ
10. New York Giants – vs. ATL
11. Carolina Panthers – vs. MIA
12. Miami Dolphins - @ CAR
13. Indianapolis Colts - @ BAL
14. San Diego Chargers - @ DEN
15. Detroit Lions – vs. CLE
16. Jacksonville Jaguars – vs. BUF
17. Chicago Bears – vs. PHI
18. San Francisco 49ers - @ GB
19. Denver Broncos – vs. SD
20. Baltimore Ravens – vs. IND
21. Washington Redskins - @ DAL
22. Atlanta Falcons - @ NYG
23. Tennessee Titans - @ HOU
24. Houston Texans – vs. TEN
25. Buffalo Bills - @ JAC

Fantasy Football Kicker Start/Sit Rankings (Week 11)

Here they are—Kicker Rankings for Week 11 (2009) to help you decide who to start and who to sit on your fantasy football team.

1. Nate Kaeding (SD) - @ DEN
2. Ryan Longwell (MIN) – vs. SEA
3. Stephen Gostkowski (NE) – vs. NYJ
4. David Akers (PHI) - @ CHI
5. Mason Crosby (GB) – vs. SF
6. John Carney (NO) - @ TB
7. Jason Hanson (DET) – vs. CLE
8. Lawrence Tynes (NYG) – vs. ATL
9. Neil Rackers (ARI) - @ STL
10. Nick Folk (DAL) – vs. WAS
11. Jeff Reed (PIT) - @ KC
12. Rob Bironas (TEN) - @ HOU
13. Matt Prater (DEN) – vs. SD
14. Kris Brown (HOU) – vs. TEN
15. Matt Stover (IND) - @ BAL
16. Shayne Graham (CIN) - @ OAK
17. John Kasay (CAR) – vs. MIA
18. Robbie Gould (CHI) – vs. PHI
19. Dan Carpenter (MIA) - @ CAR
20. Olindo Mare (SEA) _ @ MIN

Week 10: Game Time Decisions (Injury Report)

The following players are ACTIVE for week 10:
QB - Trent Edwards (BUF)
RB - DeAngelo Williams (CAR)
RB - Ladell Betts (WAS)
RB - Maurice Jones-Drew (JAC)
RB - Brian Westbrook (PHI) - expected to split touches with L. McCoy
RB - Jonathan Stewart (CAR)
RB - Donald Brown (IND)
RB - Darren McFadden (OAK)
RB - Derrick Ward (TB)
WR - Roddy White (ATL)
WR - Marques Colston (NO)
WR - Brandon Marshall (DEN)
WR - Bernard Berrian (MIN)
WR - Terrell Owens (BUF)
WR - Michael Jenkins (ATL)
TE - Antonio Gates (SD)

The following players will NOT BE ACTIVE for week 10:
RB - Sammy Morris (NE)
RB - Clinton Portis (WAS)
RB - Jerious Norwood (ATL)
WR - Antonio Bryant (TB)
WR - Justin Gage (TEN)
WR - Lance Moore (NO)
TE - Anthony Fasano (MIA)

Fantasy Football Running Back Start/Sit Rankings (Week 10)

*Rankings with detailed comments will be available Friday. Any additional updates that are necessary will be posted no later than Saturday in the final Week 10 (2009) rankings.


1. Chris Johnson (TEN) – He now leads all NFL RBs with 959 rushing yards in just 8 games. Johnson has been especially productive of late, rushing for 491 yards and 4 TDs in his last 3 games. He should add to those totals significantly in week 10 with an extremely promising match up against Buffalo. The Bills rank dead last in the NFL in run defense allowing 174 rushing yards per game and no team in the NFL gives up more fantasy points to opposing RBs. All signs point to a monster fantasy outing for Chris Johnson in week 10.

2. Ray Rice (BAL) – The last time Rice faced Cleveland in week 3, he totaled 75 yards on 15 touches and added a TD. At the time, Willis McGahee was still very much involved in the Baltimore game plan (vulturing Rice’s touches) and the Browns were actually healthy on defense. All things considered, Rice’s stat line against the Browns wasn’t half bad the first time around, but things have changed significantly since week 3 and Rice should fare much better against them in week 3. McGahee is a distant memory in the Ravens game plans and a beat up Browns defense can’t stop anyone in the run game. Cleveland ranks just 31st in the NFL against the run allowing 171 rushing yards per game. In addition, only the Bills and Raiders have given up more fantasy points to opposing RBs than the Browns. It should be a big Monday night for Rice whose consistency is unmatched among fantasy RBs of late. He has double digit fantasy performances in his last 6 games and has 5 TDs in his last 4 games.

3. Michael Turner (ATL) – He continues to rack up TDs on a weekly basis and the Falcons recently “adjusted” run blocking scheme is starting to pay huge dividends in the yardage department as well. Turner has rushed for 317 yards in his last 2 contests, including a 166 yard 2 TD performance against a fairly stout Redskins run defense last Sunday. Turner should keep that momentum rolling into a favorable week 10 match up against Carolina. The Panthers rank 23rd in the NFL in run defense and give up the 9th most fantasy points to opposing RBs. It also doesn’t hurt that Turner has a solid history of lighting this defense up. He has 222 rushing yards and 5 TDs against them in his last 2 contests, including a 105 yard 1TD effort in week 2 of this season.

4. Adrian Peterson (MIN) – We realize that this ranking may seem a bit low considering that arguably the NFL’s best RB is facing a Lions defense that is notoriously bad. However, the Detroit run defense is actually better than you might realize this season ranking mid pack in the NFL and oddly enough, Peterson’s track record against them over the last 2 seasons, while very good, is not nearly as stellar as it probably should be. We aren’t saying that he can’t or won’t rip them to shreds this time around, because he is certainly more than capable of doing so. We are just stating the facts and the three players ranked ahead of Peterson this week have better odds of success given those facts. Regardless, this is still a favorable match up for Peterson at home and even a worst case scenario should entail very solid numbers for him at the end of the day.

5. DeAngelo Williams (CAR) – After a bit of a slow start, Williams is back to doing what he does best, embarrassing opposing run defenses. In his last 4 contests, Williams has accumulated 630 all-purpose yards and 5 TDs. In week 10, he will face a familiar foe in division rival Atlanta. The Falcons rank just 24th in the NFL against the run giving up 124 rushing yards per game which qualifies this as a favorable match up for him. Williams also has a very solid track record against Atlanta. In his last 2 starts against them, he has 231 total yards and 2 TDs (100 plus yards and a TD in each game) and that includes a week 2 match up this season. Williams did show up on the injury report mid week with a knee injury, but he was able to practice in a limited capacity on Thursday. He should be fine to play, but the situation is worth monitoring heading into Sunday’s match up. Check injury report: knee (questionable)

6. Thomas Jones (NYJ) – Jones has been a real workhorse of late rushing for at least 100 yards in each of his last 3 games, totaling 433 ground yards during that span. He should be well rested coming off of a bye and a week 10 match up against Jacksonville’s 22nd ranked run defense holds plenty of promise. He should continue his streak of 100 yard rushing efforts against the Jags and Jones is always a threat to find the end zone indicative of the 7 rushing TDs he already has in just 8 games. He is a must start fantasy option for week 10.

7. Maurice Jones-Drew (JAC) – He struggled to find running room in week 9 against Kansas City averaging just 3.3 yards per carry, but Jones-Drew still ended up with a very solid fantasy effort at the end of the day totaling 134 yards and a score. He could very well have his work cut out for him again in week 10 against a fairly stingy Jets run defense on the road. The Jets have been up and down against opposing ground games of late, but they have only given up 4 rushing scores all season and only 6 teams in the NFL have given up fewer fantasy points to opposing RBs. Regardless, Jones-Drew is an elite talent and no match up is too tough for him to overcome. He is a must start each and every week. It is worth noting that MJD was a late add to the Jaguars injury report on Thursday with a knee issue. Reports offer no indication of the severity of the injury, just that he was limited in practice and is listed as questionable. His status should be monitored closely. Check injury report: knee (listed as probable on Friday)

8. Frank Gore (SF) – He was more than up to the challenge on Thursday night against the Bears as Gore totaled 125 yards and scored the game’s only TD. Gore seems to be flourishing in the Niners new look “spread” offense and you can probably expect solid fantasy production from him moving forward.

9. Steven Jackson (STL) – We say it practically every week, but it truly is phenomenal that Jackson is able to produce at such a high level in such a terrible offense. Even with defenses locked in on him, he always manages to come through with solid numbers. If he could only start adding some TDs on a consistent basis, Jackson could fully regain his elite fantasy status. As for week 10, we like his chances against a struggling Saints run defense. New Orleans started out the 2009 season with one of the better run defenses in the NFL, but some key injuries have caused their stock to plummet of late as they have been terrible in their last 2 games. As usual, Jackson will be the focal point of their attention and as usual, we expect him to come out on top and another trip to the end zone is not out of the question against this rapidly declining defense.

10. Ronnie Brown (MIA) – While Brown hasn’t exactly been at the top of his game against two very solid run defenses the last two weeks, we fully expect him to bounce back in week 10 against a very generous Tampa Bay run defense. The Bucs rank 30th in the NFL against the run and they tend to give up plenty of fantasy points to opposing RBs. Brown, “The Wildcat”, and fantasy owners alike should have a field day against this defense at home in week 10. It’s just too bad that Brown will have to share the wealth with Ricky Williams.

11. Pierre Thomas (NO) – Slowly but surely, Thomas is starting to make up ground on his elite pre-season draft status. In his last 2 games, he has 181 all purpose yards and 3 TDs. He should keep that momentum rolling into a very favorable week 10 match up against the Rams. St. Louis gives up 135 rushing yards per game on average, ranking them 27th in the NFL and they rank 4th in the league with regard to fantasy points allowed to opposing RBs. Thomas will continue to share the workload with Reggie Bush and Mike Bell, but his role seems to be increasing and there should be plenty to go around for everyone against a generous Rams defense.

12. Cedric Benson (CIN) – He could have a tough row to hoe in week 10 against the NFL’s top run defense, but as he has proven time and time again, the tougher the opponent, the better his numbers tend to be. In fact, Benson has already set a precedent for success against the Steelers totaling 81 yards and a score against them in week 3. It will be a tall order for him to exceed those totals against the Steelers this time around on the road, but we have learned to never count him out against anyone. He should be fresh coming off of a bye week and Benson is capable of doing some serious damage, even against the Steelers. That said, your expectations should not be through the roof given the difficulty of this match up.

13. Rashard Mendenhall (PIT) – He is starting to open some eyes in fantasy circles as Mendenhall ran all over a stout Broncos defense on the road last Monday night. Mendenhall will be in for yet another tough test in week 10 as he faces a Cincinnati run defense that ranks 2nd in the NFL. The Bengals have one of the stingier run defenses in the league, but Mendenhall is talented enough to find success in this match up. It doesn’t hurt that the Steelers have a very potent passing attack that can create scoring opportunities for him and while this match up isn’t fail safe, we like Mendenhall’s chances in week 10.

14. Ricky Williams (MIA) – His numbers have died down a bit in the last couple of weeks, but that’s nothing a promising week 10 match up against Tampa Bay can’t fix. The Bucs rank 30th in the NFL against the run (164 rushing yards per game allowed) and they tend to give up plenty of fantasy points to opposing RBs. As usual, Williams will have to share the spoils with Ronnie Brown, but both players should excel with the “Wildcat” against this leaky defense. Plus, this just has the feel of one of those big Ricky Williams’ weeks. He should make for a solid RB2 fantasy option.

15. Ryan Grant (GB) – It’s difficult to get overly excited about his week 10 match up against a fairly solid Cowboys run defense, but Grant has been consistently solid in his own right this season. He has posted double digit fantasy efforts in 7 of 8 games and there is little reason to believe that he will go bust against the boys in silver and blue at home. That said, you probably can’t expect Grant to wow you with his performance this week either. He earns RB2 status for week 10.

16. Joseph Addai (IND) – He is coming off of his best fantasy performance of the season in week 9 and while he has yet to rush for more than 64 yards in a game all season, Addai is already surpassing expectations with regard to fantasy football in 2009. As long as Peyton Manning is under center for the Colts, Addai is going to have an opportunity to be a productive fantasy option. It is clear that Addai isn’t going to put up monster rushing yards against anyone, but the Colts high powered passing game always seems to put him in a position to score and/or utilizes his talents as a receiver out of the backfield. Addai will have his work cut out for him in week 10 against a Patriots defense that has only allowed 2 rushing scores all season, but thanks to Manning, Addai should find a way to put up decent numbers once again. Our best guess is that he will benefit most in the passing game this week as the Pats will almost certainly focus their attention on stopping Reggie Wayne and Dallas Clark. This should open up some opportunities for Addai to showcase his receiving skills.

17. Matt Forte (CHI) – As has become the norm with Forte this season, he was unable to produce much of anything in the running game in a Thursday night loss to the 49ers. That said, there is a silver lining as Forte had a career best 120 receiving yards on 8 catches. There may still be hope for Forte this season as Cutler has looked his way early and often the last 2 weeks in the passing game. Unfortunately, this is something that should have been happening all along and now it’s simply too late for many fantasy owners.

18. Brian Westbrook (PHI) – It is promising that Westbrook was able to practice on Thursday and Friday, but we still wouldn’t bet the farm on him playing in week 10. If he is able to give it a go, Westbrook is certainly worth risking a roster spot on as a RB2 or flex option (depending on your options) against a pretty bad San Diego run defense. The Chargers rank a pathetic 26th in the NFL against the run and they tend to give up a generous amount of fantasy points to RBs on a weekly basis. He is currently listed as probable, but it would not be unwise to monitor Westbrook’s status heading into Sunday just to err on the side of caution. Check injury report: concussion, ankle (probable)

19. Laurence Maroney (NE) – While he can be very difficult to trust as a fantasy option due to the Bill Belichick factor, Maroney should continue in his recent role as the Pats feature back in week 10. At least, that is what the last few weeks would suggest. Sammy Morris is doubtful at best and Fred Taylor is out for sure due to injury, Kevin Faulk comes in on the occasional passing down and BenJarvus Green-Ellis has barely seen the field. That pretty much leaves Maroney to carry most of the load and he should be fairly effective in doing so. The Colts have shown major improvement against the run as the season has progressed and they rank just outside the top 10 in the NFL in terms of fewest fantasy points given up to opposing RBs. That being said, Maroney is talented enough to get the job done and he has a potent passing attack that can create goal line opportunities for him.

20. Tim Hightower (ARI) – As we have stated before, Hightower can be a bit risky due to the unpredictable nature of his workload, but the fact remains that one way or another, he’s probably going to put up solid numbers in some capacity. In week 10, he will face a good, but not great, Seahawks run defense. The good news is that Seattle’s ability to limit his ground yards is somewhat irrelevant as Hightower typically supplements a lack of rushing yards with TDs and quality production in the passing game.

21. Marion Barber (DAL) - @ GB
22. Marshawn Lynch (BUF) - @ TEN
23. LeSean McCoy (PHI) - @ SD
24. Ladell Betts (WAS) – vs. DEN Check injury report: ankle (probable)
25. Jamaal Charles (KC) - @ OAK
26. Jonathan Stewart (CAR) – vs. ATL Check injury report: achilles’ (probable)
27. Carnell “Cadillac” Williams (TB) - @ MIA
28. Shonn Greene (NYJ) – vs. JAC
29. Knowshon Moreno (DEN) - @ WAS
30. Kevin Smith (DET) - @ MIN
31. LaDainian Tomlinson (SD) – vs. PHI Check injury report: hip (questionable)
32. Justin Fargas (OAK) – vs. KC
33. Kolby Smith (KC) - @ OAK
34. Chris “Beanie” Wells (ARI) – vs. SEA
35. Reggie Bush (NO) - @ STL
36. Correll Buckhalter (DEN) - @ WAS
37. Julius Jones (SEA) - @ ARI
38. Mike Bell (NO) - @ STL
39. Darren McFadden (OAK) – vs. KC Check injury report: knee (probable)
40. Donald Brown (IND) – vs. NE Check injury report: shoulder (probable)
41. Darren Sproles (SD) – vs. PHI
42. Jamal Lewis (CLE) – vs. BAL Check injury report: ankle (probable)
43. Chester Taylor (MIN) – vs. DET
44. LenDale White (TEN) – vs. BUF Check injury report: illness (probable)
45. Felix Jones (DAL) - @ GB
46. Fred Jackson (BUF) - @ TEN
47. Kevin Faulk (NE) - @ IND
48. Derrick Ward (TB) - @ MIA - Check injury report: knee (questionable)
49. Tashard Choice (DAL) - @ GB
50. Justin Forsett (SEA) - @ ARI

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Fantasy Football Quarterback Start/Sit Rankings (Week 10)

*Any additional updates that are necessary will be posted no later than Saturday in the final Week 10 (2009) rankings.

1. Drew Brees (NO) - @ STL
2. Tom Brady (NE) - @ IND
3. Aaron Rodgers (GB) – vs. DAL Check injury report: feet (probable)
4. Peyton Manning (IND) – vs. NE
5. Brett Favre (MIN) – vs. DET Check injury report: groin, hip (probable)
6. Tony Romo (DAL) - @ GB
7. Kurt Warner (ARI) – vs. SEA
8. Ben Roethlisberger (PIT) – vs. CIN
9. Phillip Rivers (SD) – vs. PHI
10. Joe Flacco (BAL) - @ CLE
11. Jay Cutler (CHI) - While he managed to throw for over 300 yards for the 2nd straight week on Thursday night against the 49ers, Cutler also managed to negate any fantasy benefit from said yardage by throwing 5 interceptions. C'mon Cutler, you can't even muster up a token TD pass? He is now officially the leading candidate to become the poster child for fantasy football's most unpredictable player. Regardless of the match up, it seems like having Cutler in your starting line up is not much different than playing a game of Russian roulette (figuratively speaking of course).
12. Donovan McNabb (PHI) - @ SD
13. Carson Palmer (CIN) - @ PIT
14. Matt Ryan (ATL) - @ CAR
15. Alex Smith (SF) – vs. CHI
16. Matt Hasselbeck (SEA) _ @ ARI – Check injury report: shoulder (probable)
17. Mark Sanchez (NYJ) – vs. JAC
18. Matt Cassel (KC) - @ OAK
19. Kyle Orton (DEN) - @ WAS
20. Chad Henne (MIA) – vs. TB
21. Josh Freeman (TB) - @ MIA
22. Jake Delhomme (CAR) – vs. ATL
23. Matt Stafford (DET) - @ MIN – Check injury report: knee (probable)
24. David Garrard (JAC) - @ NYJ
25. Jason Campbell (WAS) – vs. DEN – Check injury report: ankle (probable)

Fantasy Football Wide Receiver Start/Sit Rankings (Week 10)

* Any additional updates that are necessary will be posted no later than Saturday in the final week 10 rankings (2009).

1. Larry Fitzgerald (ARI) – vs. SEA
2. Marques Colston (NO) - @ STL Check injury report: flu
3. Randy Moss (NE) - @ IND
4. Vincent Jackson (SD) – vs. PHI
5. Reggie Wayne (IND) – vs. NE
6. Wes Welker (NE) - @ IND
7. Miles Austin (DAL) - @ GB
8. Hines Ward (PIT) – vs. CIN
9. Roddy White (ATL) - @ CAR Check injury report: knee
10. Chad Ochocinco (CIN) - @ PIT
11. Sidney Rice (MIN) – vs. DET
12. Derrick Mason (BAL) - @ CLE
13. Donald Driver (GB) – vs. DAL
14. Devin Hester (CHI) - @ SF
15. DeSean Jackson (PHI) - @ SD
16. Brandon Marshall (DEN) - @ WAS Check injury report: back
17. Steve Smith (CAR) – vs. ATL
18. Calvin Johnson (DET) - @ MIN Check injury report: knee (probable)
19. Greg Jennings (GB) – vs. DAL
20. Nate Burleson (SEA) - @ ARI
21. Braylon Edwards (NYJ) – vs. JAC
22. Anquan Boldin (ARI) – vs. SEA Check injury report: ankle (probable)
23. Dwayne Bowe (KC) - @ OAK
24. Mike Wallace (PIT) – vs. CIN
25. Percy Harvin (MIN) – vs. DET
26. Steve Breaston (ARI) – vs. SEA Check injury report: knee
27. Mike Sims-Walker (JAC) - @ NYJ
28. Jerricho Cotchery (NYJ) – vs. JAC
29. Michael Crabtree (SF) – vs. CHI
30. T.J. Houshmandzadeh (SEA) - @ ARI
31. Austin Collie (IND) – vs. NE
32. Bernard Berrian (MIN) – vs. DET Check injury report: hamstring
33. Santonio Holmes (PIT) – vs. CIN
34. Devery Henderson (NO) - @ STL
35. Pierre Garcon (IND) – vs. NE
36. Santana Moss (WAS) – vs. DEN
37. Jeremy Maclin (PHI) - @ SD
38. Roy Williams (DAL) - @ GB
39. Lee Evans (BUF) - @ TEN
40. Laveranues Coles (CIN) - @ PIT
41. James Jones (GB) – vs. DAL
42. Terrell Owens (BUF) - @ TEN Check injury report: hip
43. Andre Caldwell (CIN) - @ PIT
44. Johnny Knox (CHI) - @ SF
45. Eddie Royal (DEN) - @ WAS
46. Chris Chambers (KC) - @ OAK Check injury report: foot
47. Malcom Floyd (SD) – vs. PHI
48. Earl Bennett (CHI) - @ SF
49. Robert Meachem (NO) - @ STL
50. Lance Long (KC) - @ OAK

Additional noteworthy WRs for week 10:
Antonio Bryant (TB) - @ MIA Check injury report: knee (questionable)
Nate Washington (TEN) – vs. BUF
Torry Holt (JAC) - @ NYJ
Donnie Avery (STL) – vs. NO
Mark Clayton (BAL) - @ CLE
Davone Bess (MIA) – vs. TB
Jason Hill (SF) – vs. CHI Check injury report: ankle (probable)
Patrick Crayton (DAL) - @ GB
Sammie Stroughter (TB) - @ MIA
Greg Camarillo (MIA) – vs. TB
Sam Aiken (NE) - @ IND
Kelley Washington (BAL) - @ CLE
Mohamed Massaquoi (CLE) – vs. BAL
David Clowney (NYJ) – vs. JAC
Chaz Schilens (OAK) – vs. KC Check injury report: foot (probable)
Kenny Britt (TEN) – vs. BUF
Danny Amendola (STL) – vs. NO