Fantasy Football News 2011/2012

[HacheMan]

King of the NFL

A decade ago, then ESPN analyst Sean Salisbury perfected the art of the 20-20 hindsight back track. To paraphrase Hunter S. Thompson, all sports analysts end up being wrong on a regular basis; it goes with the territory. But they rarely admit to it over the public airwaves. “Losing is bad for the image, dude. Nobody buys Hot Tips from Losers. Remember that.”

Salisbury’s back-track baton has been passed to Cris Carter, who suggested in August that an all too obviously unstoppable Calvin Johnson is “very, very good at ‘Madden’ and ‘Tecmo Bowl’ or whatever they’re playing now. But on film, when I watch film, and I break down the film, he’s not to the point of these guys yet. That doesn’t mean he can’t play. He's just not there yet.” Carter added at the time, “We’re trying to determine greatness and impact on the NFL game. Calvin Johnson, you don’t have to double-team him to take him out of the game.”

It was odd for Carter to cite game film and Johnson’s inability to beat double coverage when offensive coordinator Scott Linehan actually noted last season that opponents were using triple coverage to contain Megatron.

By last week, Carter was still refusing to puclicly acknowledge Johnson as an “elite” receiver, leading to retorts from Matthew Stafford and DC Gunther Cunningham. Much like Trent Dilfer brings an inherent bias toward intelligent and scrappy but physically limited quarterbacks, perhaps Carter simply places a higher value on boundary receivers with sticky hands and precision route running than vertical threats who can take the top off a defense.

Whatever the case, Carter finally changed his mind after Johnson tied his record with multiple scores in four straight games. The highlight was a 23-yard touchdown in triple coverage after Stafford pointed upward with his index finger at the line of scrimmage. "It was Shawn Kemp pointing to Gary Payton to throw it up for a dunk," explained Nate Burleson. That play was pivotal in overcoming a 24-point deficit against Dallas, tying the record for the largest road comeback in NFL history.

By Monday morning, Carter was finally singing a different tune. “Right now, Calvin Johnson — there’s a king in every crowd,” said Carter, “and he’s the king of the National Football League as far as wide receivers.” Carter’s colleague Merrill Hoge went on to call Johnson the NFL’s early-season MVP. Aaron Rodgers and Tom Brady may be the favorites, but Hoge is on solid footing. The 4-0 Lions average 5.6 yards per play and allow 5.2 while the 0-4 Vikings average 5.4 yards per play and allow 5.6. “Put Calvin Johnson in purple and white instead of silver and blue,” writes Jonathan Comey of ColdHardFootballFacts.com, “and you might be looking at 2-2 for both, or maybe even 3-1 for the Vikings and 1-3 for the Lions.”

Through four games, Megatron is on pace for 96 catches, 1,284 yards, and 32 touchdown catches. Not to be outdone, Stafford is on pace for a 44:12 TD-to-INT ratio to go with 4,868 passing yards as the undefeated Lions head into their first Monday Night Football game in a decade. Detroit is the center of the football universe this week.
Now that we’ve reached the season’s quarter pole, let’s take a look at some other “on pace” numbers.

Fun with On-Pace Numbers

Aaron Rodgers - The first quarterback in history with 400+ yards, four passing touchdowns, and two rushing scores, Rodgers produced 53 standard-scoring points to vault past Tom Brady as the No. 1 fantasy QB. The Packers’ 148 points through four weeks are a franchise record. Green Bay is on pace to break the Patriots’ 2007 record for most points (589) in a season while adding the most yards in the NFL since the Greatest Show on Turf Rams’ 7,075 in 2000. Rodgers is completing 73.1 percent of his passes, which would better Drew Brees’ record of 70.6. His passer rating of 124.6 is slightly higher than Peyton Manning’s record of 121.7 from 2004. Rodgers has now thrown for at least 297 yards in each of his first four games, setting a pace for 5,300 yards and 48 touchdowns. As crazy as it may sound, that’s a reasonable goal for 16 games.

Tom Brady / Wes Welker - Welker’s 158 yards on Sunday were responsible for 70 percent of Brady’s total one week after hogging 56.0 percent of the Patriots’ passing yards. With Aaron Hernandez sidelined, Deion Branch struggling to get open, and Chad Ochocinco an afterthought, Welker has 25 receptions compared to 21 for the rest of the team over the past two weeks. Just 21 months removed from a torn ACL and MCL, Welker is as quick and dangerous as ever -- perhaps more so than any receiver in the league. He’s on pace for an other-wordly 160 receptions, 2,464 yards, and 20 touchdowns. While that’s unstainable, Welker should remain an elite fantasy receiver all season. … Despite an “off” week, Brady still managed two passing scores for the 13th consecutive game while the Patriots offense cleared 30 points for the 12th straight regular-season game. Brady is on pace to better his historical 2007 season with 6,212 yards and 52 touchdowns.

Cam Newton / Steve Smith - At this point, the only quarterbacks I’d start over Newton on a weekly basis are Brady, Rodgers, Michael Vick, Drew Brees, and perhaps Matthew Stafford. Coming off the best month in rookie history, Newton is on pace for 5,544 passing yards, 532 rushing yards and 36 total touchdowns. … Revitalized with a quality passer, Smith has topped 150 yards in three of his first four games, putting him on pace for 2,120 receiving yards. That’s obviously not sustainable, but Smith certainly has the talent as well as the situation to finish as fantasy’s top receiver this year. His yards will go down while his touchdowns elevate.

Michael Vick - Buoyed by a career-high 416 passing yards, Vick became the first player in NFL history to pass for 400 yards and rush for 75 yards in the same game. He’s now the second quarterback in NFL history with 4,800 rushing yards, needing only 71 to bypass Randall Cunningham’s 4928 for the most ever by a quarterback. Though he’s been labeled an early-season bust, Vick is still on pace for a career-high 4,084 passing yards and 24 touchdowns to go with 912 rushing yards. The ground scores will come.

Matt Forte - Former Rams coach Dick Vermeil used to stroll past pass-happy coordinator Mike Martz muttering “28” as a reminder to keep Marshall Faulk involved in the offense. It’s a good bet that Lovie Smith gave Martz the same mandate this week after Forte saw just a dozen rushes the past two weeks. Martz called seven straight running plays to start Sunday’s game, and an explosive Forte responded with a career-high 205 yards. His last six regular-season games have produced 954 yards -- an average of 159 per week. The NFL’s best receiving back is on pace for 2,536 total yards and eight touchdowns. The yards will come down from the Chris Johnson of 2009 pace, but Forte should remain a clear-cut RB1 all season.

Darren McFadden - Patriots coach Bill Belichick is known for taking away the other team’s top weapon, forcing offenses to go away from their strength. McFadden didn’t find the end zone against Belichick, but he did rack up 123 yards on 18 touches. Fantasy’s No. 1 back is on pace to essentially replicate Arian Foster’s 2010 season, with 300 carries, 1,872 rushing yards, 60 receptions, 528 receiving yards, and 16 touchdowns.

Ryan Mathews - Norv Turner plans to keep repeating this line every week: Ryan Mathews is getting "better, better and better." Already one of the most effective per-touch backs in the NFL, Mathews is averaging 4.72 yards per carry and 13.36 yards per catch through four games. Heading into a dream matchup with the Broncos, Mathews is on pace for 244 carries, 1,152 rushing yards, 76 receptions, 1,016 receiving yards, and 12 touchdowns. Those receiving yards will go down, of course, but Mathews will counter that by increasing his rushing numbers at Mike Tolbert’s expense.

Jimmy Graham - Formerly a power forward, Graham is on the verge of passing Jermichael Finley as the most dangerous combination of size, power, and speed among NFL tight ends. Like Finley, he can threaten a defense vertically while also representing a mismatch in the red zone. "This is the greatest time I've ever had in the sport," Graham said after posting 132 yards and a touchdown on 10 catches and 14 targets at Jacksonville. After two straight 100-yard games, Graham is on pace for 1,468 yards and 12 touchdowns. He won’t hit that yardage total, but the dozen scores are within reach.

Larry Fitzgerald - Perhaps the one player on this list with the best chance to hit his on-pace numbers, Fitz’s first-month production projects to 92 catches, 1,444 yards and eight touchdowns. He’s flying well under the radar while Welker, Megatron, and Steve Smith steal the show.

Julio Jones / A.J. Green - Jones has back-to-back 100-yard games heading into a Week 5 matchup against a Packers defense on pace to surrender 5,327 passing yards -- 831 more than the record-holding 1995 Falcons. Perhaps not coincidentally, the defenses ranked in the bottom-three in the NFL in yards per play allowed are the Patriots (Brady), Panthers (Newton), and Packers (Rodgers). Through the season's first quarter, No. 6 overall pick Jones is on pace for 1,368 yards on 96 receptions. … In the Bengals’ ball control offense, Green is on pace for 76 catches and 1,248 yards. Fantasy owners will be happy if either rookie clears 1,000 yards. Both have emerged as every-week fantasy plays through one month of action.


<!--RW-->Committee Time

Redskins - Coach Mike Shanahan waited until after Sunday’s game to reveal that he decided mid-week that Ryan Torain's role would grow Sunday against the Rams. The Washington Times suggests that the Redskins could now use a three-way rotation in the backfield with Torain (19 carries, 135 yards, TD) as the first- and second-down back, Tim Hightower (9 touches, 28 yards) as the blitz pick-up specialist on passing downs, and rookie Roy Helu (8 rushes, 35 yards) as the explosive change-of-pace option. Torain is a must-add on the waiver wire this week.

Saints - It’s become clear that Sproles (12 touches, 131 yards) is more than a passing down back -- quite a few of his carries came on early downs and between the tackles on Sunday. Sproles is now on pace for 1,432 total yards and eight touchdowns, a sign that he’s more than just a PPR flex option in New Orleans. Ingram (19 touches, 58 yards) led the backfield in touches for a fourth consecutive game, but he needs to find the end zone for reliable fantasy value. Thomas (10 touches, 79 yards) remains one of the most effective per-play backs in the NFL, but it’s hard to maintain fantasy value on less than a dozen touches.

Panthers - Jonathan Stewart (12 touches, 85 yards) remains the primary passing-down back, but DeAngelo Williams gained momentum with 82 yards on 10 rushes against a quality defense. This should remain a virtual 50-50 split going forward.

Patriots - BenJarvus Green-Ellis (17 touches, 84 yards, TD) remains the leader of the committee as well as the goal-line horse, but Stevan Ridley (11 touches, 100, TD) is coming like a freight train. Ridley was a tackle-breaking machine at Oakland, showing more explosiveness than BJGE for the second straight game. Danny Woodhead (two carries, 13 yards) saw just six snaps before going down with an ankle injury.

Browns - Peyton Hillis (15 touches, 69 yards) split time fairly evenly with Montario Hardesty (12 touches, 71 yards). Browns coaches clearly trust Hardesty in the passing game despite four drops against the Titans. Hillis was miffed after the game, answering "Ask the coach" to every question asked. His value is trending toward low-end RB2 territory with Hardesty’s role expanding.

Giants - More of the same. Ahmad Bradshaw led the way with 50 yards and a score on 16 touches while Brandon Jacobs managed just 18 yards and a touchdown on 10 touches. The two backs alternated drives with Jacobs scoring on a goal-line plunge. Jacobs is only an option in touchdown-heavy leagues right now.

Packers - Expected to take on a larger role going forward, Ryan Grant plans to play against the Falcons in Week 5. It was good to see James Starks (18 touches, 101 yards) ditch his hesitant Week 3 style, but he didn’t exactly put his stamp on the backfield against the Broncos. Alex Green saw just three carries and will head back to the bench while Grant and Starks split time in Week 5.

49ers - Juan Castillo’s Philadelphia defense had surrendered 100-yard performances to Cadillac Williams, Michael Turner, and Ahmad Bradshaw before Frank Gore (15 carries, 127 yards, TD) and Kendall Hunter (11 touches, 100 yards) both hit the mark on Sunday. Gore’s 8.5 yards per carry were enough to stave off a running back controversy in San Fran, but Hunter showed enough play-making ability to believe his role will grow.

Chiefs - Dexter McCluster (10 touches, 38 yards) is leading the backfield in touches and production, but he’s averaging a staggeringly low 3.05 yards on 17 receptions. Thomas Jones (11 carries, 37 yards) is averaging just 2.82 yards per touch and is on pace for an irrelevant 452 total yards. Jackie Battle (five carries, 22 yards) took over for Jones in clock-killing mode. Our game charter noted that Kansas City’s backfield has “simply became a wasteland for fantasy value.”

Injury Ward

Ben Roethlisberger - Foot
Chad Henne - Shoulder
Rashard Mendenhall - Hamstring
Ben Tate - Groin
Andre Johnson - Hamstring
Danny Woodhead - Ankle
Michael Bush - Ankle
Vincent Jackson - Leg
Danny Amendola - Triceps
Big Mike Williams - Concussion
Jerod Mayo - Knee
Joe Haden - Knee
Chris Hope - Arm
Aaron Smith - Foot
James Harrison - Head

Check out MattStroup’s “Andre’s Hammy, Big Ben’s Foot” for in-depth analysis of Sunday’s M*A*S*H unit fallout.


<!--RW-->Awards Section

Stat of the Week: The comebacks by the 49ers and Lions mark the first time in NFL history that two teams apiece in consecutive weeks overcame 20-point deficits to win. The Lions are the only team in NFL history to perform the feat in consecutive weeks.

Runner-Up: The Eagles are the first team with 1,700 offensive yards and a losing record through four games since the 1983 Chargers.

Quote of the Week: From @colonelcomey of ColdHardFootballFacts.com on Aaron Rodgers’ dominance: “If Rodgers can top Brady for MVP, it’ll cap the greatest 12-month run for a human being since Alexander the Great made Persia his bitch in 334 B.C.”

Runner-Up: Clark Judge of CBSSports.com on Texans Pro Bowl pass rusher Mario Williams versus Steelers rookie RT Marcus Gilbert: “The worst mismatch since the Red Sox took on September.”

Tweet of the Week: From @greggrosenthal of Rotoworld and Profootballtalk.com on Sunday night’s offensive debacle: “SNF score: Ravens D 21, Ravens offense 13, Jets ST 7, Jets D 7, Jets offense 3.”

Runner-Up: From Sam Farmer of the Los Angeles Times: “Buffalo at Cincinnati pits the Amish Rifle and Red Rifle.”

Fantasy MVP of Week 4: Aaron Rodgers, Packers

Fantasy Breakout Player of Week 4: Beanie Wells, Cardinals

Fantasy Rookie of Week 4: Cam Newton, Panthers / Julio Jones, Falcons

Fantasy Disappointment of Week 4: Mario Manningham, Giants

Fantasy Fraud of Week 4: Tim Hightower, Redskins

Fantasy Fluke of Week 4: Darrius Heyward-Bey, Raiders

Fine Fifteen Fantasy Offenses

1. Patriots
2. Lions
3. Packers
4. Eagles
5. Saints
6. Texans
7. Falcons
8. Cowboys
9. Chargers
10. Panthers
11. Bills
12. Cardinals
13. Giants
14. Steelers
15. Ravens

Early Waiver Look

QB: Tim Tebow, Christian Ponder, Jason Campbell, Tarvaris Jackson, John Beck, Matt Moore
RB: Ryan Torain, Stevan Ridley, Isaac Redman, Lex Hilliard, Jacquizz Rodgers
WR: Victor Cruz, Michael Crabtree, Danario Alexander, Titus Young, Antonio Brown, Jacoby Jones, Doug Baldwin, Laurent Robinson, Greg Little
TE: Ed Dickson, Jared Cook, Kevin Boss

 

[HacheMan]

MNF Matchup: Colts @ Bucs
Monday Night Football

Indianapolis @ Tampa Bay

The Colts' Week 3 "promotion" of Peyton Manning to offensive playcaller didn't help, at least in terms of personnel usage. While Indy did enjoy more rushing success, Dallas Clark again got stuck on the line trying to block an elite pass rusher. (In Week 1, it was Mario Williams. In Week 3, James Harrison.) Clark predictably got smoked on the line and all but zeroed out of the box score, catching two passes for 12 yards. He again blocked on more plays than he ran routes. Clark has 83 yards on the year and is fast approaching droppable status in fantasy leagues. ... The Colts' signing of Dan Orlovsky was a strong indication that they planned to start Curtis Painter on Monday, and Kerry Collins' (concussion) inability to practice confirms it. Coach Jim Caldwell confirmed Friday that Painter will start. You probably already know, but QB change won't save the passing offense. The Colts showed no confidence in Painter whatsoever by signing Collins in the first place, and in four career appearances the Purdue alum is a pathetic 13-of-39 (33.3%) for 143 yards (3.67 YPA), no touchdowns, two interceptions, four sacks taken, and three fumbles.

With 90 scoreless yards in his last two games, Reggie Wayne has been exposed as a late-career receiver in need of pinpoint, tight-window passing to produce against loaded coverage. Bail quickly on Wayne after his next decent game. He'll be shadowed by Aqib Talib in this one. ... Pierre Garcon posted 82 yards in Week 3, but had another ugly drop and has yet to find the end zone. The Colts might be better off starting Austin Collie, who's been a total non-factor with 53 yards in three games and a brutal 6.6 yards-per-catch average. ... As mentioned above, the Colts just don't believe in Curtis Painter. A run-first approach seems quite likely. Rookie Delone Carter can't play in the passing game and is averaging a pedestrian 3.73 YPC, so the coaching staff flipped the every-down back reins to Joseph Addai in Week 3. Addai, averaging over a full yard per rush attempt better than Carter, scored a goal-line touchdown and racked up 88 yards against an annually tough Steelers run defense. Addai is the best fantasy bet on Indy's side in this game.

Playing at home against an Indianapolis team without an offense, the Bucs should control time of possession on Monday night. While the Colts improved their run-defense ranking against the beat-up offensive lines of Cleveland and Pittsburgh, the undersized Indy front seven is likely to have much less success versus 247-pound Bucs power back LeGarrette Blount. Blount has 165 yards and a pair of scores since his clunker Week 1 game. Expect to see more of Blount and less of Earnest Graham as the Bucs play with a lead. ... Kellen Winslow caught two passes for 20 yards in Week 3, with one of the catches flukily shooting through Dezmon Briscoe's hands and into the tight end's waiting arms. Scoreless with his yardage in decline every week so far, Winslow ranks 22nd among tight ends in fantasy scoring. ... Fill-in slot receiver Preston Parker confirmed that his six-catch, 98-yard Week 2 game was a mirage with 11 yards on one reception last week.

Getting wins but struggling for big statistical games in an offense that simply doesn't cater to high-end numbers, Josh Freeman is the No. 24 fantasy quarterback. He's still a good buy-low target in two-QB leagues, particularly if Indianapolis becomes the next team to hold Freeman in check. He's just not a QB1. ... Mike Williams is the Bucs' next-best fantasy option behind Blount in this game, but be aware that zone defenses like the Colts' have been taking him out of games. Before the season, we projected Williams to take a step back in his sophomore year. But we never imagined he'd be under 90 yards through three weeks. Defenses are keying up to stop him. ... Arrelious Benn has done nothing to distract defensive attention from Williams, averaging under three catches for 24 yards per week while rotating with Briscoe. Leave them on the waiver wire.

Score Prediction: Bucs 21, Colts 10

 

[HacheMan]

Instant Impressions: Week 4

Surprising games from Torain, Wells, Ridley highlight high-scoring fantasy week


By Christopher Harris
ESPN.com

• Mike Shanahan had his revenge … again. You can't stop him, you can only hope to contain him. See, this is why we don't believe the hype when Tim Hightower begins the year with two games of slightly more than 100 total yards from scrimmage, and when Shanny gives Hightower glowing reviews. The orange-hued ball coach doesn't like to use just one back, and when that back is a pedestrian talent like Hightower, Shanny's eyes don't take long to wander. Ryan Torain -- left for dead by many fantasy owners after a quiet first few weeks (he was owned in just 57.4 percent of leagues headed into this weekend) -- got the primary carrier's role versus the St. Louis Rams on Sunday and wound up with 135 yards on 19 carries. Meanwhile, Hightower (the subject of a rather large in-game Twitter inquiry among my followers) was not hurt, he just wasn't used as much: eight carries for 24 yards. And Roy Helu had eight carries for 35 yards. You absolutely should pick up Torain if he's available in your league. But now I'm reading all over the place how people have finally figured out Shanny's plan, and Torain will get early-down work, Hightower will play third down and Helu will be the "change-of-pace" back. No. No. No! Shanny doesn't work that way. Things will get shaken up again in the Redskins backfield. I promise.


• Arian Foster, come on down! Even at the game's outset, Foster was the lead back Sunday versus the Pittsburgh Steelers (more on them in a moment): The carries were seven for Foster and two for Ben Tate when, at 7:16 of the first quarter, Tate's groin twinged, ending his afternoon. On that first Texans drive, Tate did contribute a rumbling 20-yard run, and those who started him as a sneaky flex had to be feeling OK. But Tate's injury opened the floodgates for Foster, who wound up with an insane 30 carries. Guess his hammy is all right. One thing that the Tate Experience has taught us, I hope, is that while Foster and Tate are both talented players, the real star in that Houston running game is the offensive line. They are just maulers.


• The Steelers O-line will get criticized after Sunday's loss, and rightly so. Ben Roethlisberger got pummeled, with Mario Williams in particular tormenting rookie tackle Marcus Gilbert. Big Ben has a foot injury that, as of this writing, was still of unknown severity. But how about that Pittsburgh defense? At times it just looked helpless. The Steelers have allowed two 100-yard backs in four games so far this year after allowing three in their previous 85 contests. I wrote about how the Colts exposed Pittsburgh's defense with their rushing stretch plays last Sunday night, and that's how Foster did much of his damage in Week 4. Until further notice, this group isn't scary for your fantasy RBs to run against.


• The Philadelphia Eagles are 1-3, and Michael Vick isn't blameless, but at least he put up his best fantasy game of the young season. His injured right hand wasn't an issue, and he tossed for a career-high 416 yards, but for the umpteenth straight year Philly can't get out of its own way near an opponent's goal line, and Vick doesn't seem to have an answer for that. On another note, remember when we all went bananas on that Monday night game against the Redskins last year when Vick put up 49 fantasy points? (The third-best total since 2000.) Ho-hum -- Aaron Rodgers put up 45 points against the Denver Broncos on Sunday, and it almost seemed blasé. That guy is good.

• Welcome to the party, Beanie Wells and Matt Forte. Wells scored three TDs versus the New York Giants, the first time an Arizona Cardinals back has had three scores since '06. Hopefully his fantasy owners trusted him despite his "Mr. Glass" act in Seattle last week. And Forte -- who'd rushed for 119 yards total in three games -- racked up 205 and a score versus the Carolina Panthers in Week 4. The Panthers were a top-five matchup for opposing fantasy backs in '10, and there's no reason to think that's changed this season.


• Rashard Mendenhall scored his second TD of '11, saving an otherwise pedestrian fantasy day, but the bigger news is that Mendenhall pulled a hamstring on his 3-yard scoring scamper and didn't return to the game, despite the fact that the Steelers were within three points, and would tie the game in the fourth quarter. Isaac Redman and Mewelde Moore shared carries after Mendy's injury, and as of this writing I don't have any further word on the hammy's severity. But Redman is an obvious candidate to be the TD-maker if Mendenhall can't play next week against the Tennessee Titans, so he's probably worth an add in most leagues. Of course, as I mentioned earlier, this Steelers O-line is really struggling, so I can't guarantee Redman would be a must-start.


• Two top-10 fantasy wideouts suffered injuries of indeterminate severity Sunday. Andre Johnson dropped to the turf as though he was shot after a catch-and-run, and the way he grabbed his lower leg and writhed around made it look really bad. As of this writing, the Texans haven't released the results of an MRI, but early word is that AJ hurt a hamstring, not a knee, which at the moment qualifies as hopeful news. Meanwhile, Vincent Jackson made a tremendous diving catch on a deep ball against the Miami Dolphins and was untouched, so he got up and rushed in for a TD. But he was only in the game sporadically after that, though the early word is that V-Jax tweaked something in one of his legs, as opposed to aggravating his abdominal injury. Fantasy owners are compelled to simply watch helplessly as news about these injuries trickles out.


• The fantasy world was abuzz Sunday morning when the San Francisco 49ers announced that Frank Gore would be active but wouldn't start, and that Kendall Hunter would get the nod. But it was much ado about nothing. Hunter played in the Niners' first two snaps, then Gore came in, and obviously his injured ankle didn't bug him much because it was business as usual thereafter. Hunter made one terrific run after a short catch early in the second half, but the guy was also occasionally returning kicks. Meanwhile, Gore had 15 carries for 127 yards and the game-winning score, rewarding those fantasy owners who stuck with him. Hunter is a good prospect and is well worth owning. But Gore is an every-week play.

• One young tight end exploded Sunday, and two splatted. Jimmy Graham had a whopping 14 targets against the Jacksonville Jaguars and caught 10 of them for 132 yards and a score, and it could have been even better, because I saw at least one bomb down the left sideline that Graham couldn't quite catch in bounds. Alas, Rob Gronkowski and Jermichael Finley disappeared; despite the fact that Aaron Hernandez was out again, Gronk had one catch for 15 yards on five targets, and despite the fact that the Green Bay Packers scored 49 points, Finley caught three of his six targets for 28 yards. All three of these guys are every-week starters until further notice, but such are the vagaries of the tight end position. www.rapsports.com


• Meanwhile, the first two receivers taken in April's NFL draft, Julio Jones and A.J. Green, just keep on trucking. Jones was awfully tough against the Seattle Seahawks, often tormenting Brandon Browner in single coverage. He had 17 targets to Roddy White's 11, which isn't an indication that Matt Ryan somehow likes him better, but rather that coverage is dictating that Ryan should throw it to Jones. (This is why I didn't consider White a top-five receiver this summer.) Meanwhile, Green made two long grabs against the Buffalo Bills and then almost scored a couple of different times on Calvin Johnson/Dez Bryant-style jump balls. Jones wound up with 11 grabs for 127 yards and Green had four catches for 118 yards. Each guy has made his bones as a top-30 fantasy receiver, and is at least worth flex consideration every week.


• It's probably time for me to be less stubborn on Darren Sproles. As I endlessly pointed out during my many media gigs last week, Sproles had only eight carries on the season through three weeks, and it was mighty hard for me to consider a guy with eight carries to be a must-start in standard-scoring fantasy leagues. Well, the Saints handed Sproles the ball seven times in Week 4 alone (et tu, Sean Payton?), and the little guy ran for 75 yards. Sproles failed to find the end zone for the first time in '11, but he mustered 131 yards from scrimmage on 12 touches. Wow. I mean, it's still very hard for me to say that a guy who gets 12 touches is someone who has to be in all lineups. But it's obvious that I was undervaluing Sproles at least a bit. I finally might just have him as my highest-ranked Saints RB at Carolina next week.

• BenJarvus Green-Ellis got into the end zone against the Oakland Raiders, so maybe his owners didn't notice, but Stevan Ridley is knocking at that door. BJGE had 16 carries for 75 yards and is still usually Bill Belichick's solution when the New England Patriots get near an opponent's end zone. But Ridley had 10 carries for 97 yards and showed pretty good speed for a 225-pounder on a 33-yard scoring scamper in the third quarter, speed that the Law Firm just doesn't have. Like Shanahan, Belichick is never going to make it easy on fantasy owners on a weekly basis. But with Danny Woodhead injured and out of the second half of the Oakland game, Ridley got a bunch of work. Longer-term, he seems like BJGE's replacement, and thus like a must-add in fantasy leagues.


• I guess I'm not smart enough to definitively weigh in on whether Victor Cruz should have been given a fumble with about three minutes left in Sunday's game; Cruz caught a pass, fell down under his own power (presumably to save clock time) and dropped the ball without being touched. I figured it was a fumble, but the referees ruled he'd "given himself up" (presumably a la a sliding QB?), so they didn't award the Cardinals possession. What I'm really interested in here is the fantasy owner's reaction. Had the Cruz play been ruled a fumble, the Cardinals would have run out the clock, and the fantasy goodness would have been over. Instead, the New York Giants kept up their final drive, and Hakeem Nicks owners could perk up with hope. Sure enough, Nicks scored the winning TD on the very next play. And then Larry Fitzgerald owners could perk up, because now the Cardinals would have to throw to try and score again. (Alas, Fitz wouldn't catch another pass.) Funny that Cruz's presumptive bonehead play made the ending that much more hopeful for Nicks and Fitz owners.


• Incidentally, in the interest of full disclosure, Mario Manningham reportedly did not re-injure himself Sunday. Apparently he ran some sloppy routes early and irritated Eli Manning, which got Manningham demoted from two-receiver sets in favor of Cruz. Yikes. That will be something to watch going forward.


• I watch football Sundays in the "war room" on the ESPN campus, and whenever Mark Sanchez does something bad, the wise guys in the room regularly shout, "Broadway Schmo!" There must have been a lot of that last night (I wasn't in the room for that game, as I typically drive home for the Sunday night game). No question the New York Jets missed Nick Mangold at center again, as the Baltimore Ravens put tons of pressure on Sanchez all night. But the guy still went 11-of-35 for 119 yards, lost two fumbles that were returned for TDs, and threw a pick that was also returned for a score. We're only one-quarter of the way through the '11 regular season, so it would be unfair to say that any team's identity is cast in stone. But through four games, the Jets sure seem like they'll rise and fall with Sanchez. They have no running game, and have now passed it 146 times and rushed it 92 times. That's an astonishing count, and against the Patriots next week, one imagines that ratio will be the sort that will be most successful. Certainly nobody feels great about relying on Sanchez in fantasy right now, but Shonn Greene is flat-out MIA.

 

[HacheMan]

Pass the Blount

Is LeGarrette Blount a special talent? Good question.

Punching incident aside, can a special talent go undrafted in this day and age? Does a special running back have to be a factor in the passing game? Would a special talent only play on two downs?

In last night’s win over the Colts, Blount was the Bucs’ most valuable player. He hammered his way into and through the line, picking up 127 yards on 25 carries and scored the game-winning touchdown on a pretty 35-yard zig-zag run. He looked like the kind of old-school back you can build a winner around.

However, let’s not get caught up in the moment. When the Bucs fall behind, Blount gets stapled to the bench -- they won’t be playing the lowly Colts weekly. The NFL is now a passing league -- seven quarterbacks are averaging 300 passing yards per game or more so far. And Blount runs to contact -- backs like that simply don’t last.

So take advantage of Blount’s hot streak and sell high. Let someone else bet that he’s a special talent.

COLTS at BUCS RANDOM THOUGHTS
The Colts started in a three-wide set that included Austin Collie. But he didn’t play in any two-wide sets, ending up with two catches for 16 yards on seven targets. … Curtis Painter is a better fit for the Colts’ offense because he can run the no-huddle. He’s got a strong arm and is willing to go downfield. He should start the rest of the season. … Delone Carter was mixed in plenty, as soon as the first drive. He’s also the short-yardage back … Arrelious Benn had a long touchdown called back in the first half because he barely stepped out of bounds and came back in. … Pierre Garcon had one of his trademark drops, but redeemed himself with impressive after-the-catch moves on two long touchdowns. The Colts are insistent on getting him involved. … The Colts were ironically running a soft Tampa-2 the whole game. That left the underneath wide open for Preston Parker. Don’t chase.

Editor's Note: For early rankings, projections, the Running Back report, the top-200 going forward list and much more, check out the Season Pass!

NEWS OF THE DAY #1
When Andre Johnson went down Sunday, it looked like a season-ending knee injury. No one touched him and he crumpled to the ground like he got shot. So, owners should be taking Monday’s news as a major positive.

Johnson actually injured his hamstring and reports vary on the severity. What we know is that he’s highly unlikely to play in Week 5. What we don’t know yet is what grade his pull is. ESPN’s Adam Schefter says that the Texans don’t believe it’s a long-term injury, while CBS’ Mike Freeman hears Johnson will miss at least a few weeks. Considering the Texans’ recent history with Arian Foster and hamstring pulls, I’d expect them to err on the side of caution.

In the meantime, the talented yet inconsistent Jacoby Jones will start. In two starts in place of Johnson last year, Jones averaged 5.0 catches for 92.5 yards. The difference now is that the Texans are a run-first team that dominates with their offensive line. Jones is just a high-risk WR3 while Johnson is going forward.

NEWS OF THE DAY # 2
Redskins coach Mike Shanahan is up to his old tricks once again. Even though Tim Hightower was handling himself adequately as the feature back and the ’Skins were off to a 2-1 start, Ryan Torain became the “man” on Sunday. A few takeaways from that:

A) We probably should have seen this coming. Hightower is not a plus-NFL runner. He can’t make anyone miss and is averaging 3.5 yards per carry on the season. His best asset is as a pass protector.

B) Shanahan loves Torain. Under any other coach, Torain’s injury woes would have gotten him cut. But Shanny has stuck with him in both Denver and Washington, keeping the faith that a healthy Torain would be a difference-maker.

C) The Redskins view Roy Helu as a change-of-pace back only right now. He’s not a candidate for the feature back role.

D) Shanahan is known for going with the “hot hand.” That’s likely to be the case going forward here. And until he gets hurt, Torain is the best bet to get that hot hand.

INJURY QUICK SLANTS
Vincent Jackson (leg, abdomen) is about where he was last week. Not much owners can do but trot him out there. … Rashard Mendenhall (hamstring) has a shot to be ready for Week 5. … Ryan Grant (kidney) is going to be ready for a full week of practice. … Ben Roethlisberger has a sprain, not a fracture in his foot. He’s a good bet to play in Week 5. … Ben Tate (groin) is considered day to day. … Danny Amendola (elbow) is headed for a second opinion. Never a good sign, it usually means the first opinion was surgery. … Earl Bennett (chest) is not expected to be back this week. That means more Dane Sanzenbacher. … Lee Evans is going to be back after the bye. Say goodbye to Torrey Smith. … Chad Henne (shoulder) says he’ll be ready to go when the Dolphins come out of their bye.

DEPTH CHART QUICK SLANTS
Mario Manningham was demoted out of the No. 2 wideout role in favor of Victor Cruz Sunday. No word yet on the plan going forward. … Ahmard Hall comes off his four-game suspension this week. He’s Chris Johnson’s lead blocker. … Coach Rex Ryan claims the Jets are going back to their “ground and pound” offense. Doubt their line and Shonn Greene are up to the task. … Coach Pat Shurmur said that Peyton Hillis needs more touches after he split the load evenly with Montario Hardesty in Week 4. … Steven Ridley’s snap count got up to 19 in Week 4. He’s on the rise. … The Broncos and Vikings are sticking with Kyle Orton and Donovan McNabb, respectively. …

Editor’s Note: Sick of your team already? Get a new one and win real cash with SnapDraft!

WAIVERS
DEFENSIVE SPOT STARTS
Adding a different defense/special teams each week based on matchups is a fine strategy. Here are units that might be on waivers to consider this week for streaming purposes:

1. GIANTS vs. Seahawks - With Osi Umenyiora (knee) back wrecking havoc, Jason Pierre-Paul looking dominant and Justin Tuck (neck, groin) a possibility, the Seahawks’ offensive line is going to get overwhelmed. Lots of turnovers out of Tarvaris Jackson.

2. 49ERS vs. Bucs - Don’t sleep on this Niners’ defense. They rank 7th in points against per game, fourth against the run and have forced 11 turnovers in four games. The Bucs are on a short week and have to go across the country. Really tough spot for them.

3. BENGALS at Jaguars - I have seen each of Blaine Gabbert’s first two starts in their entirety. The kid isn’t ready and the Jags have no weapons for him. The Bengals will grind out a low-scoring game.

 

[HacheMan]

The Talented Mr. Ridley

This week’s priority on the waiver wire comes down to team need. Ryan Torain is the most valuable asset for Weeks 6-8 with fantasy friendly matchups looming against three teams in the top-10 in fantasy points allowed to opposing running backs. Torain isn’t going to help those owners already dealing with a bye-week crunch, though, because his team is off this week as well.

For Week 5 value alone, Isaac Redman has the upper hand. Rashard Mendenhall was knocked out of last week’s game with a hamstring injury that is not believed to be serious. If that sounds familiar, it’s because that’s the same tune the Texans were singing after Arian Foster tweaked his hamstring in August. As we saw with Foster as well as Beanie Wells, running backs often need at least a week -- if not more -- to recover even from a minor hamstring pull. If the Steelers do push Mendenhall to play this week, Redman would be more of a flex option with an increased role. If Mendenhall sits out, Redman is looking at 20-25 touches as an every-down back with Mewelde Moore (high ankle sprain) also sidelined.

Over the long haul, though, Patriots rookie Stevan Ridley looks like the pick of the litter. After impressing in two second-half series against the Bills in Week 3, the coaching staff promised to reward Ridley as long as he continued to improve week-to-week while "developing a level of consistency.” Mission accomplished. Ridley’s snaps increased again in Week 4, leading to a season-high 100 yards on just 11 touches. Explosive to the edge with a burst through the middle and soft hands, Ridley is a major upgrade on BenJarvus Green-Elllis. Averaging 8.0 yards every time he touches the ball, Ridley has been a tackle-breaking machine even going back to preseason action. Even if this remains a committee attack, Ridley is a good bet to emerge as the lead dog in a high-scoring offense. Of the three top waiver candidates this week, Ridley’s upside is the highest.


On to the players. Here is how I rank the top players at each position as we head into Week 5. Full writeups of each player are below.

Editor’s Note: Join subscriber only chats, get weekly rankings before anyone else, plus exclusive weekly projections, stat tools, dynasty ranks, columns, and much more including the Rotoworld Oracle in our Season Pass.

Running Backs
Ryan Torain
Stevan Ridley
Isaac Redman
Bernard Scott
Montario Hardesty
Ricky Williams
Joe McKnight
Keiland Williams

Quarterbacks
David Garrard
Tim Tebow
John Beck
Alex Smith
Tarvaris Jackson
Curtis Painter

Wide Receivers
Victor Cruz
Michael Crabtree
Jacoby Jones
Danario Alexander
Kevin Walter
James Jones
Lee Evans
Preston Parker
Doug Baldwin

Tight Ends
Ed Dickson
Jermaine Gresham
Jared Cook
Kevin Boss

Defense/Special Teams
Bengals
Titans
49ers
Running Backs

Ryan Torain, Redskins - Coming off 135 yards and a touchdown against the Rams, Torain heads into the bye week as the leader in a committee backfield. Fantasy owners decry the recent trend toward a “hot hand” approach in NFL backfields, but Mike Shanahan has been at it since Terrell Davis blew out his ACL in 1999. For Week 6, expect to see Torain as the primary early-down runner, Tim Hightower on passing downs, and Roy Helu as an 8-10 touch change-of-pace runner. The “hot hand” mentality should work in Torain’s favor, as the Redskins draw the Eagles, Panthers, and Bills (Nos. 1, 5, 10 in fantasy points to opposing backs) coming out of the bye week.

Recommendation: Should be owned in all leagues.

Stevan Ridley, Patriots - Coach Bill Belichick made a concerted effort to move away from his one-dimensional offense in Week 4, leading to an increased role for Ridley in the second straight game. Showing an impressive burst and an ability to power through would-be tacklers, Ridley has averaged 7.9 yards on 19 carries this season as opposed to 4.0 yards on 49 carries for BenJarvus Green-Ellis. Ridley is clearly the most well-rounded and elusive back in New England, and his role is only going to continue to expand at the expense of both Green-Ellis and Danny Woodhead.

Recommendation: Should be owned in all leagues.

Isaac Redman, Steelers - Rashard Mendenhall’s hamstring is the headline injury, but Mewelde Moore’s high-ankle sprain also factors into Redman’s Week 5 value as a potential three-down back. Mendenhall’s hamstring injury is not believed to be serious, which sounds a lot like Arian Foster’s in training camp. Even if Mendenhall manages to suit up this week, Redman will take a bigger share of the workload. In the best-case scenario, Redman will see 20-25 touches as a solid RB2 against the Titans with Mendenhall and Moore both sidelined.

Recommendation: Should be owned in 12-team leagues.

Bernard Scott, Bengals - At this point, no one has a clue as to the outcome of Cedric Benson’s convoluted suspension appeal. ESPN’s John Clayton, who has misread this one from the beginning, offered Tuesday that Benson’s status is “still up in the air” because it’s a “complicated deal” involving the NFLPA. Clayton does say that a ruling on Benson “could happen” as soon as Tuesday. Now that we’ve reached the bye week crunch, Scott should be owned in 12-team leagues as Benson insurance.

Recommendation: Should be owned in 12-team leagues.

Montario Hardesty, Browns - Coach Pat Shurmur said Monday that the Browns need to get Peyton Hillis more snaps and touches after Hardesty played in a two-back rotation in Week 4. Despite four dropped passes, Hardesty still has 13 targets the past two weeks while maintaining the confidence of his coaches on passing downs. He’s proven capable of producing should Hillis miss time.

Recommendation: Should be owned in 12-team leagues.

Ricky Williams, Ravens - Ray Rice is in the discussion along with Darren McFadden and Arian Foster as the best back in the league behind Adrian Peterson. If Rice goes down, though, Williams would likely step in as a three-down back in an offense tailored to the ground game. Ricky has averaged an impressive 4.7 yards per on 33 carries, continuing to laugh at Father Time.

Recommendation: Worth a look in 12-team leagues.

Joe McKnight, Jets - A “furious” Rex Ryan has reportedly decided to scrap his pass-heavy offense while returning to the ground ‘n’ pound formula of Mark Sanchez’s rookie season. The Jets will presumably saddle up an ineffective Shonn Greene, averaging 3.08 yards per carry behind an increasingly shoddy offensive line. At some point, Ryan will realize that running Greene into the pile isn’t working, either. Despite speculation to the contrary, McKnight remains ahead of rookie Bilal Powell on the depth chart and would seem likely to get the first crack at an increased role.

Recommendation: Worth a look in deeper leagues.

Keiland Williams, Lions - Jahvid Best deep-league owners must be driving themselves batty trying to figure out Detroit’s No. 2 back. It was Jerome Harrison in Week 1, Williams in Week 2, a three-man combo in Week 3, and back to Williams in Week 4. If Best goes down with an injury, we’d see a timeshare, with Williams likely handling carries deep in the red zone.

Recommendation: Worth a look in deeper leagues.

Watch List: Bilal Powell, Tashard Choice, Marion Barber, Jacquizz Rodgers, Steve Slaton, Brian Leonard

<!--RW-->Quarterbacks


David Garrard, Free Agent - With Chad Henne's (separated shoulder) season now in question, the Dolphins are "rekindling" discussions with Garrard. Monday's talks went nowhere because the Fins refused to offer guaranteed money. Garrard presumably wants to start again, and the winless Dolphins will represent his best chance if the second opinion confirms that Henne is out for the season. If he does sign with Miami, Garrard would have QB2 value just as the bye weeks hit.


Recommendation: Monitor for a mid-week addition in 14-team leagues.


Tim Tebow, Broncos - The coaching staff is “privately softening its stance” on Tebow as a potential starter this year, and ESPN.com’s Bill Williamson could see it happening after the Week 6 bye. In three starts last season, Tebow averaged 217.0 yards passing per game, 66.3 yards rushing and scored seven total touchdowns as a fantasy stud. Kyle Orton is now 12-20 as a Broncos starter while tossing an NFL-high six interceptions in the first month of the season. The organization must get Tebow on film for half a season before deciding whether to draft Matt Barkley or Landry Jones in 2012.

Recommendation: Worth a look as a roster stash.

John Beck, Redskins - To the surprise of no one, Rex Grossman followed up a sterling opener with seven turnovers in his next three games. The Redskins’ 3-1 record has saved Grossman from a benching heading into the bye week, but the honeymoon is officially over. The Shanahans are intrigued by Beck’s skill-set and will use Grossman’s next faceplant as an excuse to make a change. The Redskins have just enough weapons to make Beck a viable QB2 option once the transition occurs.

Recommendation: Worth a look as a roster stash.

Alex Smith, 49ers - Don’t look now, but the 49ers’ passing game is showing signs of life. Smith has increased his out put each successive game, culminating in a 291-yard, 2-touchdown performance against the Eagles’ Dream Team secondary. Smith has yet to complete fewer than 63.6 percent of his passes in any game, and his weapons are improving with Michael Crabee back healthy and Braylon Edwards’ return in the next couple of weeks. It’s not a crazy idea to consider Smith in two-quarterback leagues.

Recommendation: Worth a look in two-quarterback leagues.

Tarvaris Jackson, Seahawks - After a miserable start, T-Jack has battled back to 21st in QB fantasy points, primarily due to his three-touchdown performance last week. Sidney Rice’s return has breathed enough life into Seattle’s offense for Jackson to be worthy of a look in two-quarterback leagues. He gets the Giants on the road in Week 5 before the Week 6 bye.

Recommendation: Worth a look in two-quarterback leagues.

Curtis Painter, Colts - We know what we’re getting with Painter at this point. While he’s turnover prone with sloppy footwork and decision-making, he’s at least shown mobility and a willingness to strike down the field. All things considered in Indy, that makes for a more interesting package than another bout with Kerry Collins’ calcified limbs. If Painter shows gradual improvement, the Colts skill-position talent could eventually lead to QB2 value.

Recommendation: Worth a look in two-quarterback leagues.

Hold Off: Jason Campbell

Campbell was a fine one-week plug-in against the Patriots’ generous pass defense, but he’s not going for a second straight 300-yard outing against a still underrated Texans defense.

Watch List: David Garrard, Andy Dalton, Christian Ponder, Matt Moore, Matt Flynn, Vince Young

The Dolphins reached out to Garrard this week, albeit unsuccessfully. ... Dalton has proven capable of moving the offense in catchup mode, but that’s not likely to be the case against the Jags in Week 5. … The Ponder drumbeat is growing louder in Minnesota with an erratic Donovan McNabb struggling at the helm of a winless Vikings squad. … Chad Henne’s (non-throwing shoulder) status is up in the air heading into the Dolphins’ bye week.

<!--RW-->Wide Receivers

Victor Cruz, Giants - Mario Manningham was benched early in last week’s game for running bad routes and showing iffy hands coming off a concussion. The New York Daily News believes it’s “doubtful” that Manningham will lose his starting job to Cruz, but the latter should be owned in 12-team leagues after averaging 104 yards over the past two games. The No. 2 receiver situation is obviously fluid, and Manningham could end up being kicked inside to the slot.

Recommendation: Should be owned in 12-team leagues.

Michael Crabtree, 49ers - With Crabtree back in the lineup, the offensive line showing incremental improvement, and Alex Smith increasing his output each week, the Niners’ passing game is finally showing signs of life. Crabtree was dropped in half of CBSSports.com leagues after a slow start. It’s time to add him again after nine targets as the No. 1 receiver last week.

Recommendation: Should be owned in 12-team leagues.

Jacoby Jones, Texans - Andre Johnson (hamstring) is expected to miss anywhere from a few days to a few weeks. On the positive side, Jones has the confidence of his coaching staff and a two-game average of 5.0 catches and 92.5 yards while filling in for Johnson late last season. On the negative side, Jones has disappointed as often as he’s rewarded fantasy owners. The Texans are going to saddle up Arian Foster against the Raiders, leaving Jones as a high-risk WR3 option.

Recommendation: Worth a look as an injury replacement.

Danario Alexander, Rams - A crumbling offensive line has kept Sam Bradford from getting the ball to his most talented wide receiver, but Alexander has still led the Rams in targets for two consecutive weeks. If Bradford ever does get the aerial attack back on track, it’s Alexander who stands to benefit as the top fantasy threat. Just keep in mind the Rams are heading into their bye week.

Recommendation: Worth a look in 12-team leagues.

Kevin Walter, Texans - Somebody has to catch the ball in Houston. Walter was held without a catch against the Steelers last week, but he should see more targets with Andre Johnson likely out this week. We prefer Jacoby Jones due to his talent edge, but the more productive Texans receiver will likely be the one without Stanford Routt in coverage. At this point, that’s up in the air.

Recommendation: Worth a look as a bye-week fill-in.

James Jones, Packers - An afterthought in the NFL opener, Jones’ snaps and targets have gradually increased the past few weeks. With an ineffective Donald Driver stuck on two catches and 20 yards per week, the Packers are going to have to turn to Jones and/or Randall Cobb at some point. Jones is talented enough for WR3 production in Green Bay’s stacked offense, but he’s just a roster stash at this point.

Recommendation: Worth stashing in 14-team leagues.

Lee Evans, Ravens - Torrey Smith followed up his three-touchdown breakout game with one catch for one yard against a legit secondary in Week 4. Evans should get his starting job back after using the bye week to nurse his ankle back to full health. Evans flashed in preseason Weeks 2 and 3, but hasn’t been right since late August. He’s worth stashing in deeper leagues to see if he’s all the way back and producing against the Texans in Week 6.

Recommendation: Worth stashing in 14-team leagues.

Preston Parker, Buccaneers - The primary beneficiary of Arrelious Benn’s slow start and Josh Freeman’s newfound checkdown tendencies, Parker had a team-leading six catches and 98 yards in Week 2 as well as a team-leading five catches and 70 yards in Week 4. Parker will be maddeningly inconsistent in a subpar offense, but he’s worth a look in PPR formats during the bye weeks.

Recommendation: Worth a look in deeper PPR leagues.

Doug Baldwin, Seahawks - Undrafted out of Stanford, Baldwin has emerged as Seattle’s top slot receiver with 83, 4, 23, and a team-leading 84 yards in the first four games. Like Parker, he figures to be incredibly inconsistent with an erratic Tarvaris Jackson at the controls. Like most of the Seahawks players, Baldwin is only worth carrying in deeper leagues.

Recommendation: Worth a look in deeper leagues.

Cut Bait: Hines Ward, Emmanuel Sanders, Devery Henderson, Brandon Gibson, Andre Roberts, Derrick Mason, Danny Amendola, Donald Driver

Ward is averaging under four catches and 40 yards going back to last December. … Sanders is https://twitter.com/#!/PFF_MikeClay/statuses/121239087033233408 playing on running downs while Antonio Brown takes the field when the Steelers plan to pass. … Henderson is an afterthought now that Marques Colston and Lance Moore are healthy. … Gibson is falling behind Alexander and Austin Pettis. … Roberts has been invisible. … Mason can’t separate. … Amendola’s setback leaves his season in doubt.

Hold Off: Denarius Heyward-Bey

Heyward-Bey's 115 yards are a career-high, aided by a 58-yard circus catch over two defenders. Leave him on the wire.

Watch List: Titus Young, Laurent Robinson, Steve Breaston, Jabar Gaffney, Dane Sanzenbacher, Mark Clayton, Austin Pettis, Greg Little, Randall Cobb, Damian Williams, Vincent Brown

Nate Burleson has four catches on six targets the past two weeks while Young has seven catches and 13 targets. I wouldn’t go dropping Burleson just yet, but it’s a promising sign for Young. … Robinson is worth keeping in mind in case the bye week doesn’t cure Miles Austin and Dez Bryant, but he’s not worth picking up just yet. … I’d make Breaston prove that he can put a string of solid games together before bothering with a Chiefs player. … Gaffney and Sanzenbacher could be PPR options during the bye weeks. … Clayton is due back in Week 7, which is noteworthy with Danny Amendola’s season hanging in the balance. … Little continues to play more snaps than any Browns receiver.

<!--RW-->Tight Ends

Ed Dickson, Ravens - Dickson is owned in just a quarter of CBSSports.com leagues, but his role continues to grow. His 32 targets are fourth among all NFL tight ends, and those numbers have gone up in each successive week -- leading to 12 against the Jets. As Joe Flacco’s second read, Dickson should break into the top-10 fantasy tight ends this season.

Recommendation: Worth a look in 12-team leagues.

Jared Cook, Titans - The fantasy tease finally came through with 15 points last week thanks to an 80-yard jaunt down the sidelines. More important than the fluky score were Cook’s six targets, which led the team on a day when Matt Hassebeck threw just 20 times. With Kenny Britt done for the year, Hasselbeck is going to have to turn to his athletic tight end. Let’s hope he’s more Dustin Keller than Ben Troupe.

Recommendation: Worth a look in 12-team leagues.

Jermaine Gresham, Bengals - The good news is that Gresham has topped 50 yards in three of four games and found the end zone twice. The bad news is that it’s hard to predict when the Bengals will go into catchup mode, increasing Gresham’s role in the passing game. He should make for a borderline starter all season long.

Recommendation: Worth a look in 12-team leagues.

Kevin Boss, Raiders - With the Patriots keying on Darren McFadden and Denarius Moore, Boss slipped free for 78 yards -- the third highest total in his career. Don’t expect a repeat against a still underrated Texans defense this week. Boss remains TE2 for fantasy purposes.

Recommendation: Worth a look as a bye-week fill-in.

Cut Bait: Brent Celek, Lance Kendricks

Watch List: Ben Watson, Visanthe Shiancoe, Clay Harbor

Don’t rush out to grab Harbor just because he outproduced Celek for one game. The Eagles passing game now revolves around the wide receivers and running backs, leaving the tight ends as minor players. … Watson has drawn 19 targets the past two weeks, but he has a Week 5 bye.

Defense/Special Teams

Bengals - Mike Zimmer’s unit leads the NFL in total defense after four weeks. Even better, they take on a wildly inaccurate and overmatched Blaine Gabbert in what should be a field-goal contest this week.

Recommendation: Worth a look as a matchup play.

Titans - The Titans entered Week 4 as the NFL’s top defense. After allowing Colt McCoy to move the ball in garbage time, they’re still an impressive seventh in total defense heading into a matchup with Pittsburgh’s patch-work offensive line. Ben Roethlisberger, questionable this week with a sprained foot, was sacked five times and hit at least that many more times against the Texans last week. He already has nine turnovers through one month compared to 11 last year for the entire season.

Recommendation: Should be owned as a matchup play.

49ers - Justin Smith and Ray McDonald are playing as well as any pair of defensive ends in the NFL while first-time starter Navarro Bowman shines next to Patrick Willis at linebacker. A top-five fantasy defense and a hard-hitting real-life crew, the Niners take on a subpar Bucs offense in Week 5.

Recommendation: Should be owned in 12-team leagues.

 

[HacheMan]

Free-agent finds: Week 5

Ryan Torain re-emerges, Jacoby Jones could shine in Andre Johnson's absence

By Christopher Harris
ESPN.com

And so the bye weeks begin, which means you're now scouring the free-agent pool for two reasons. First, you've got regular starters who'll be getting mani/pedis on Sunday, rather than having their faces shorn off by NFL behemoths, and you need to replace them for a week. And second, of course, you're still looking for potential lottery tickets who might hit it big later in the season. The pickings are getting slimmer, but let's see if we can unearth some acceptable alternatives for both needs.


Week 5 byes: Cleveland Browns, Dallas Cowboys, Miami Dolphins, St. Louis Rams, Baltimore Ravens, Washington Redskins


Standard ESPN league finds



Ryan Torain, RB, Redskins (owned in 57.5 percent of ESPN.com leagues): The Redskins are off in Week 5, so this is certainly an add with the longer view in mind. Torain had 19 carries for 135 yards against the Rams on Sunday, and you'll forgive me for not completely buying Mike Shanahan's explanation that Tim Hightower missed time because of a shoulder injury. Shanny just does this. He's a good coach, and being a good coach sometimes means using your personnel differently under different circumstances. It's not Shanny's job to help fantasy owners. And so Torain wound up with more carries than Hightower and Roy Helu combined. Torain is definitely worth adding in all leagues, but don't be surprised when the RB usage pattern gets jumbled again in Week 6.

<CITE>Ezra Shaw/Getty Images</CITE>Stevan Ridley is slowly gaining more opportunities each week for the Patriots.


Stevan Ridley, RB, New England Patriots (3.7 percent): As I wrote in my Monday morning Instant Impressions column, Ridley has a chance to take a bigger slice of the pie in New England. Danny Woodhead missed time in the second half of Sunday's game in Oakland with what beat reporters have speculated was an ankle injury. BenJarvus Green-Ellis still seemed to have a pretty firm hold on the goal-line situation, but Ridley looks like a significantly better player right now. He's 10 pounds heavier than BJGE and is plainly more elusive. Of course, Bill Belichick doesn't like backfield consistency any more than Shanahan does, so while you definitely can add Ridley in all leagues, it's going to take a sea change in the way the Patriots do business for you to feel great about starting him.


Jacoby Jones, WR, Houston Texans (8.6 percent): Andre Johnson's injury may have looked worse than it turned out to be, and ESPN's own Adam Schefter may have reported that AJ's injury probably won't keep him out "long term," but I'm guessing we need to be prepared to experience Week 5 without him. That might put Jones in the starting lineup versus the Oakland Raiders on Sunday, and remember that when AJ missed the 2010 season's final two games, Jones caught a combined 10 passes for 185 yards. Kevin Walter (owned in 1.8 percent of leagues) is already starting and didn't catch a single pass against the Steelers on Sunday, so if there's anyone to start here, I think it'll wind up being Jones.


Antonio Brown, WR, Pittsburgh Steelers (6.2 percent): So much for my preseason predictions for an Emmanuel Sanders (owned in 8.2 percent of leagues) breakout. Sanders just keeps dropping passes, and Ben Roethlisberger just keeps throwing the ball to Brown. There's obviously been a reshuffling of the depth chart (which might partly be due to Sanders' awful red zone deflection -- and the resulting interception -- against the Colts in Week 3), and Brown played more in three-receiver sets Sunday versus Houston. He's led the Steelers in targets in each of the past two games, and in that span has eight catches for 160 yards. Hines Ward is an afterthought here, and all the good stuff I predicted for Sanders back in August looks like it's actually coming Brown's way. I'm not sure he's as quick or talented as Sanders, but it's pretty obvious right now that the Steelers trust him way more. He's addable in all leagues, though there are questions about Big Ben's availability for this week's game because of a foot injury.


Isaac Redman, RB, Steelers (2.3 percent): Rashard Mendenhall had to leave Sunday's contest after injuring a hamstring on a third-quarter TD, leaving Redman and Mewelde Moore (owned in 0.3 percent of leagues) to split carries the rest of the way. Redman first broke into the fantasy consciousness last summer with some nice preseason goal-line work, and he outweighs Moore by a good 20-plus pounds, so if Mendy winds up needing to miss time, Redman looks like the short-yardage option in the Steel City. Still, picking up Redman is very speculative, as Mendenhall's injury doesn't sound like it'll be a drawn-out affair (he reportedly has a chance to play in Week 5 against the Titans), plus it's not like anyone has done much running the ball for Pittsburgh: The team is averaging 3.7 yards per carry, tied for 22nd in the NFL.


[+] Enlarge <CITE>AP Photo/Tom Uhlman</CITE>Bernard Scott has averaged 4.4 yards per carry in his three-year career.


Bernard Scott, RB, Cincinnati Bengals (5.9 percent) or Brian Leonard (0.1 percent): One assumes at some point the NFL will actually rule on Cedric Benson's appeal of his three-game suspension, and at that point, someone else probably becomes Cincinnati's starting RB. That isn't automatically a recipe for success. Scott has one career NFL rushing TD and has only 13 carries (for only 39 yards) through three games in '11, and Leonard is a glorified fullback who plays mostly on third downs and in the two-minute offense. I can't promise you I know exactly how this all works out. But if Benson misses Week 5 versus the Jaguars, whoever does wind up seeing more carries could make a sneaky bye-week fill-in. www.rapsports.com


New York Giants Defense (30.5 percent): It's true that the Seattle Seahawks' pass offense has perked up since Sidney Rice returned, and it's true that the Falcons' D mustered only two fantasy points against Seattle last week. But if I'm scouring the wire for a bye-week defense in a standard league, I'm still taking a chance on the G-men. Despite a raft of injuries, this unit hasn't given up the one big explosion of points that's plagued so many other defenses, and now they come home. The Seahawks are typically a worse team on the road, so while I don't feel utterly confident in the Giants D, I think they acquit themselves acceptably well in Week 5.


Mike Nugent, K, Bengals (3.3 percent): The Noodge made a clutch kick to beat the Bills on Sunday, and now has three double-digit fantasy-point games in four outings. He hasn't missed a kick yet this year, and is 3-of-3 from between 40 and 49 yards. Certainly Cincinnati doesn't boast an elite offensive attack, but as a fill-in in Week 5, against the Jaguars, you can do worse.


Other acceptable bye-week substitutes, about whom I've written in previous weeks: Matt Hasselbeck, QB, Tennessee Titans (27.5 percent); Kendall Hunter, RB, San Francisco 49ers (12.0 percent); Delone Carter, RB, Indianapolis Colts (2.4 percent); Jacoby Ford, WR, Raiders (50.8 percent); Jermaine Gresham, TE, Bengals (12.8 percent).


Deeper-league finds



Steve Breaston, WR, Kansas City Chiefs (3.6 percent): Breaston made plays of 42, 28 and 15 yards Sunday, and racked up 91 yards total in Kansas City's win over the Minnesota Vikings. Before Week 4, Breaston had 88 yards in three games combined. Matt Cassel actually looked like a halfway decent QB for much of Sunday's contest, staying away from the big mistake and scrambling more than he'd done during his team's three September losses. I doubt the Chiefs' offense can support two fantasy wideouts worth starting in standard-sized leagues, and Dwayne Bowe comes first on this food chain. But K.C.'s running game doesn't look like it has any workable solutions right now, so maybe the team just throws and throws. That could mean some deep-league-viable numbers for Breaston.


Lex Hilliard, RB, Dolphins (0.1 percent): The Fins are on a bye in Week 5, and one assumes that Daniel Thomas will get healthy with a second week off. But in case his hamstring lingers, Hilliard could be worth a lottery-ticket add in deep leagues. Reggie Bush just can't make much happen between the tackles, and when Miami got near the Chargers' goal line Sunday, it gave it to Hilliard on consecutive 1-yard-plunge tries, and the 240-pound University of Montana bruiser converted on his second chance. Hilliard isn't a dynamic player and won't get much in the way of yardage, but if Thomas isn't healthy, he might be the Dolphins' TD maker.


[+] Enlarge <CITE>Ezra Shaw/Getty Images</CITE>Darrius Heyward-Bey recorded a career-high 115 receiving yards against the Patriots.


Darrius Heyward-Bey, WR, Raiders (1.0 percent): I know. Ew. Of all the guys I didn't think would benefit from the shoddy Patriots pass rush and pass defense. I bought into Jacoby Ford as an option, and he had one touch from scrimmage for 30 yards. (Better days will be ahead for him.) I believed Denarius Moore might do it again, and he managed three grabs for 19 yards, though he did score a garbage-time TD to save his fantasy owners. But DHB caught four of his seven targets (most on the team) for 115 yards, including a couple of honest-to-goodness clutch plays in which he looked fast and wrestled passes away from defenders. Do I think this is a trend? Probably not. But if you have open roster spots in a 16-team league, could DHB -- an Al Davis fave -- be worth a look? Weirder things have happened. Why, I remember a time when Samkon Gado ruled the waiver wire.


Christian Ponder, QB, Vikings (0.1 percent): How much longer can the Donovan McNabb charade go on? I mean, I'm not trying to tell you Ponder suddenly becomes a great fantasy player if he takes over as Minnesota's starter. The Vikings badly miscalculated their receiving firepower sans Sidney Rice, plus their offensive line is inconsistent, but I actually do feel safe saying Ponder wouldn't be worse than McNabb. This is who McNabb is. He's right in line with his sub-60 percent completion rate. He's still killing you with missed throws to open receivers, and tossing big picks when his team can't afford them. And the team is 0-4. I'm just saying, if you're in a two-QB league, sitting on Ponder wouldn't be the worst idea in the world.


Tim Tebow, QB, Denver Broncos (2.8 percent): And that's true of Tebow as well. If you filter out all the fan noise and tongue-in-cheek media speculation (and the billboards, oh, the billboards), the Broncos really do need to know if they have anything in Tebow. I know he didn't look good in camp or in the preseason. And I know this current coaching administration isn't the one who drafted Tebow. But seeing Cam Newton doing what he's doing does give one pause. Of course, yes, I highly doubt Tebow has a chance of completing some of the accurate lasers Newton unexpectedly shoots. But it's getting to the point where you need to make sure he can't, before you go out and draft Andrew Luck or Matt Barkley or whomever. And as we said all summer, if Tebow gets a starting job, he's as good a bet as Newton or Michael Vick or Aaron Rodgers or any other QB to get a rushing score in any given week.


Jacquizz Rodgers, RB, Atlanta Falcons (1.7 percent): Rodgers is absolutely tiny (listed at a generous 5-foot-6 and 196 pounds) and doesn't seem destined for a major role as a ball carrier anytime soon. But Jason Snelling missed Week 4 with a concussion, and Rodgers played on third downs against Seattle in his stead. He had six carries for 25 yards, but only one catch; in general, I'd actually expect those numbers to be flip-flopped, because Quizz can be a weapon as a receiver out of the backfield. I haven't heard whether Snelling will return this week against the Packers, but the matchup appears right if you're in utter desperate straits and just need to make sure you get something from your final RB spot.


Other acceptable bye-week substitutes for deep-leaguers, about whom I've written in previous weeks: Earnest Graham, RB, Tampa Bay Buccaneers (3.1 percent); David Nelson, WR, Buffalo Bills (43.4 percent); Victor Cruz, WR, Giants (19.2 percent); Jared Cook, TE, Titans (3.6 percent).

 

[HacheMan]

2011 ranks: Arian Foster back in top 10

Eric Karabell

In many fantasy football leagues, we're already one-third of the way through the regular season. I know, it seems as if the season just started, but four weeks are complete, and quite a few leagues will start their playoffs in Week 13. Others will wait until Week 14. I wouldn't say time's runnin' out for you to save your season -- even though the Minnesota Vikings should just give up -- but you might want to start looking into trades to fix a slow start. A researcher here at ESPN just dealt Calvin Johnson for Darren McFadden … and, according to my top 100 below, he did well (especially given that he needed help at running back).


As always, the year-to-end rankings are here to help. These are not the Week 5 rankings; those will be published Wednesday and be updated Friday. Use the rankings below as if you were drafting today or, for more practical October purposes, as if you were trading for the rest of the way. Good luck and enjoy! Quick click by position, for easy reference:
Top 40 Quarterbacks | Top 60 Running Backs | Top 60 Wide Receivers
Top 30 Tight Ends | Top 32 Defense/Special Teams | Top 100 Overall

Top 40 Quarterbacks

<STYLE type=text/css>.mod-inline td img {margin: 0px;}</STYLE>
<TABLE style="MARGIN: 0px; WIDTH: 100%"><THEAD><TR><TH style="WIDTH: 50px; VERTICAL-ALIGN: bottom"><CENTER>Rank </CENTER></TH><TH style="WIDTH: 200px; VERTICAL-ALIGN: bottom">Player <CENTER></CENTER></TH><TH style="WIDTH: 50px; VERTICAL-ALIGN: bottom"><CENTER>Team </CENTER></TH><TH style="WIDTH: 50px; VERTICAL-ALIGN: bottom"><CENTER>Prev. </CENTER></TH></TR></THEAD><TBODY><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>1 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Aaron Rodgers </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>GB </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>2 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>2 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Tom Brady </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NE </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>1 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>3 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Drew Brees </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NO </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>3 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>4 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Philip Rivers </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>SD </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>4 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>5 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Tony Romo </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Dal </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>5 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>6 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Matthew Stafford </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Det </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>7 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>7 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Michael Vick </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Phi </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>9 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>8 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Matt Schaub </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Hou </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>6 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>9 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Cam Newton </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Car </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>13 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>10 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Eli Manning </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NYG </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>10 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>11 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Josh Freeman </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>TB </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>11 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>12 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Ben Roethlisberger </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Pit </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>8 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>13 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Matt Ryan </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Atl </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>14 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>14 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Joe Flacco </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Bal </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>12 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>15 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Ryan Fitzpatrick </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Buf </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>15 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>16 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Matt Hasselbeck </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Ten </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>21 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>17 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Kyle Orton </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Den </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>18 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>18 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Mark Sanchez </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NYJ </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>16 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>19 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Kevin Kolb </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Ari </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>17 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>20 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Colt McCoy </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Cle </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>24 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>21 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Rex Grossman </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Was </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>19 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>22 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Jason Campbell </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Oak </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>22 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>23 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Jay Cutler </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Chi </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>20 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>24 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Sam Bradford </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>StL </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>23 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>25 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Andy Dalton </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Cin </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>28 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>26 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Alex Smith </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>SF </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>29 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>27 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Matt Cassel </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>KC </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>27 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>28 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Chad Henne </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Mia </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>25 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>29 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Curtis Painter </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Ind </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>33 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>30 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Tarvaris Jackson </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Sea </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>31 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>31 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Donovan McNabb </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Min </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>26 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>32 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Blaine Gabbert </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Jac </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>32 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>33 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Vince Young </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Phi </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>30 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>34 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Matt Moore </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Mia </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NR </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>35 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Jon Kitna </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Dal </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>35 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>36 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Kerry Collins </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Ind </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>34 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>37 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">David Garrard </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>FA </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>36 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>38 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Tim Tebow </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Den </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>37 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>39 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Shaun Hill </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Det </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>40 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>40 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">John Beck </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Was </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NR </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>



• Aaron Rodgers went off for 45 fantasy points in Week 4, throwing four touchdown passes and running for two more, so he moves back into the top spot over "slumping" Tom Brady. How dare he produce a mere 17 fantasy points when he had been averaging 28 points per game! That's appalling! To be thorough, Brady has seen his points drop five or six points each week since Week 1, by the way. Of course, I dropped him all of one spot to No. 2.
• Dallas Cowboys fans might not be pleased with quarterback Tony Romo these days, but the 331 passing yards and three touchdowns offset the three interceptions for fantasy purposes. Picks getting returned for touchdowns is not an extra fantasy penalty, fortunately for Romo's happy owners (19 fantasy points). In three of his four games, he has thrown for 331 or more yards. Romo remains at No. 5 for me despite calls for fantasy heartthrob Matthew Stafford (15 points in Week 4) and seemingly healthy (at least as of today) Michael Vick. By the way, that monster game Vick had last season in which he embarrassed the Washington Redskins on "Monday Night Football" was 49 fantasy points, and Rodgers came close to that this week.
• Ridiculously good Cam Newton again moves up; now he's in the top 10. What, too soon? He has played two tough defenses, and although the flow of the games did dictate that he throw a ton, the fact is the Panthers are not playing well defensively, which should lead to more early deficits. Newton has 806 passing yards and 57 fantasy points in just the games against the Packers and Bears (on the road!). I won't bet against his doing this against the Saints and Falcons the next fortnight, or against any other defense this season for that matter.
• Ben Roethlisberger leaves my top 10, as I can't be sure he'll play this week, and even if he does, a brutal offensive line has contributed to his averaging only 10 fantasy points per game. Puh-leeze. Even 0-4 Donovan McNabb is doing better than that. Others who dropped a bit were Joe Flacco and Mark Sanchez -- their meeting Sunday night was painful to watch offensively -- and this seemed a wise time to give some love to rejuvenated Matt Hasselbeck, Mr. 61 pass attempts (Colt McCoy) and even decent rookie Andy Dalton.
Top 60 Running Backs

<STYLE type=text/css>.mod-inline td img {margin: 0px;}</STYLE>
<TABLE style="MARGIN: 0px; WIDTH: 100%"><THEAD><TR><TH style="WIDTH: 50px; VERTICAL-ALIGN: bottom"><CENTER>Rank </CENTER></TH><TH style="WIDTH: 200px; VERTICAL-ALIGN: bottom">Player <CENTER></CENTER></TH><TH style="WIDTH: 50px; VERTICAL-ALIGN: bottom"><CENTER>Team </CENTER></TH><TH style="WIDTH: 50px; VERTICAL-ALIGN: bottom"><CENTER>Prev. </CENTER></TH></TR></THEAD><TBODY><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>1 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Adrian Peterson </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Min </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>1 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>2 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Ray Rice </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Bal </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>3 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>3 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Darren McFadden </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Oak </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>4 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>4 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">LeSean McCoy </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Phi </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>2 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>5 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Arian Foster </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Hou </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>15 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>6 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Chris Johnson </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Ten </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>6 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>7 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Maurice Jones-Drew </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Jac </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>5 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>8 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Matt Forte </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Chi </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>8 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>9 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Michael Turner </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Atl </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>10 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>10 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Fred Jackson </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Buf </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>11 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>11 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Ahmad Bradshaw </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NYG </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>9 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>12 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Frank Gore </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>SF </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>16 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>13 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Beanie Wells </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Ari </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>19 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>14 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">LeGarrette Blount </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>TB </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>14 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>15 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Jahvid Best </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Det </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>12 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>16 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Ryan Mathews </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>SD </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>17 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>17 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Rashard Mendenhall </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Pit </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>7 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>18 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Steven Jackson </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>StL </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>20 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>19 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Peyton Hillis </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Cle </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>13 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>20 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">BenJarvus Green-Ellis </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NE </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>18 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>21 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Darren Sproles </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NO </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>30 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>22 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Felix Jones </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Dal </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>24 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>23 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Mike Tolbert </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>SD </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>25 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>24 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Daniel Thomas </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Mia </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>23 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>25 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">James Starks </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>GB </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>26 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>26 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">DeAngelo Williams </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Car </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>31 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>27 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Cedric Benson </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Cin </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>21 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>28 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Joseph Addai </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Ind </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>28 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>29 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Ryan Torain </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Was </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NR </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>30 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Jonathan Stewart </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Car </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>29 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>31 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Shonn Greene </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NYJ </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>33 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>32 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Willis McGahee </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Den </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>44 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>33 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Montario Hardesty </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Cle </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>32 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>34 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Michael Bush </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Oak </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>41 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>35 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Ben Tate </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Hou </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>22 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>36 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Marshawn Lynch </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Sea </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>37 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>37 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Thomas Jones </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>KC </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>34 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>38 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Stevan Ridley </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NE </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>54 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>39 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Tim Hightower </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Was </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>27 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>40 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Pierre Thomas </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NO </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>36 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>41 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Mark Ingram </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NO </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>38 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>42 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Knowshon Moreno </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Den </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>35 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>43 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Dexter McCluster </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>KC </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>39 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>44 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">LaDainian Tomlinson </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NYJ </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>40 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>45 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Roy Helu </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Was </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>42 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>46 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Bernard Scott </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Cin </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>51 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>47 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Isaac Redman </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Pit </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>58 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>48 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">C.J. Spiller </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Buf </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>43 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>49 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Brandon Jacobs </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NYG </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>45 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>50 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Reggie Bush </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Mia </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>48 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>51 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Ryan Grant </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>GB </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>46 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>52 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Kendall Hunter </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>SF </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>49 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>53 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Cadillac Williams </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>StL </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>47 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>54 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Tashard Choice </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Dal </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>50 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>55 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Danny Woodhead </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NE </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>52 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>56 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Ricky Williams </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Bal </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>57 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>57 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Steve Slaton </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Mia </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NR </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>58 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Deji Karim </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Jac </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>56 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>59 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Jacquizz Rodgers </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Atl </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>55 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>60 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Keiland Williams </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Det </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NR </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>



• As expected, one of the top movers is Houston Texans stud Arian Foster. It doesn't look like a timeshare with Ben Tate at all, considering Foster accrued 30 carries Sunday against Pittsburgh. Yes, Tate got hurt, but Foster looked perfectly healthy in skewering the once-mighty Steelers defense for 155 rushing yards; that hadn't happened to them in eight years. Foster jumps to No. 5, and the guys ahead of him are obviously studs, too. Tate drops quite a bit. He'll get another chance someday, and, as I wrote Sunday night, don't cut him. If Foster gets hurt, at least we know Tate can get the job done.
• Other movers in the top 20 in a good way include Frank Gore, who also looked healthy enough to romp for more than 100 yards; Beanie Wells, who looks like an emerging star while averaging 5.4 yards per tote; and Ryan Mathews, who really makes things happen and deserves more than 20 touches per game. Chris Johnson of the Titans finally reached 100 yards rushing, but I wasn't panicking on him in the first place; he was at No. 6, and he remains there. I like Gore, Wells and Mathews, but there's just no room in the top 10.
• The Steelers are a mess; Rashard Mendenhall scored a touchdown Sunday, but try not to read too much into it. He also averaged less<!-- b'c 3 is a milestone here rather than our saying it's just a 1-2-3 thing and RM averaged 2 (or fewer) yards per carry (2.8, looks like, so wouldn't be true to imply it was just 2...) --> than 3 yards per carry and is banged up. Roethlisberger is hurt, the O-line is a mess … Mendenhall is still worth using, but not as much as in the past. You'll see I moved backup Isaac Redman up quite a bit. His relevance could begin this week. Peyton Hillis also took a tumble but remained a viable second running back option. It's not that Montario Hardesty took the starting role in Cleveland, but Hillis just isn't doing much, strep throat or not.
• Movers outside the top 20 include Darren Sproles, Ryan Torain, Cedric Benson, Willis McGahee and Stevan Ridley. Sproles still scares me a bit because of his low rushing totals, but perhaps Week 4, a week in which he received seven attempts, is a harbinger of more carries to come. Meanwhile, Torain is Mike Shanahan's flavor of the week in D.C. But don't overrate Torain; I'd try to move him for a more established and safe running back. Shanahan will change his mind again. Benson's three-game suspension -- perhaps it gets reduced? -- hangs over his head for the rest of October. Knowshon Moreno looks awful, and I could see McGahee keeping the starting role for a while. And finally, I didn't drop BenJarvus Green-Ellis much. I see him still getting plenty of carries -- and goal-line touchdowns. Ridley passed Danny Woodhead and should get touches, but don't expect 100 total yards per week.
Top 60 Wide Receivers


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<TABLE style="MARGIN: 0px; WIDTH: 100%"><THEAD><TR><TH style="WIDTH: 50px; VERTICAL-ALIGN: bottom"><CENTER>Rank </CENTER></TH><TH style="WIDTH: 200px; VERTICAL-ALIGN: bottom">Player <CENTER></CENTER></TH><TH style="WIDTH: 50px; VERTICAL-ALIGN: bottom"><CENTER>Team </CENTER></TH><TH style="WIDTH: 50px; VERTICAL-ALIGN: bottom"><CENTER>Prev. </CENTER></TH></TR></THEAD><TBODY><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>1 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Calvin Johnson </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Det </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>2 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>2 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Greg Jennings </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>GB </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>3 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>3 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Vincent Jackson </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>SD </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>5 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>4 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Mike Wallace </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Pit </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>6 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>5 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Larry Fitzgerald </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Ari </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>7 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>6 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Andre Johnson </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Hou </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>1 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>7 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Roddy White </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Atl </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>4 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>8 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Hakeem Nicks </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NYG </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>8 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>9 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Wes Welker </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NE </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>12 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>10 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Dez Bryant </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Dal </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>9 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>11 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">DeSean Jackson </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Phi </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>11 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>12 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Steve Smith </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Car </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>20 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>13 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Brandon Lloyd </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Den </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>17 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>14 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Dwayne Bowe </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>KC </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>16 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>15 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Brandon Marshall </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Mia </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>10 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>16 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Jeremy Maclin </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Phi </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>13 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>17 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Steve Johnson </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Buf </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>15 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>18 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Santonio Holmes </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NYJ </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>18 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>19 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Miles Austin </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Dal </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>19 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>20 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Santana Moss </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Was </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>22 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>21 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Mike Williams </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>TB </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>14 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>22 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Percy Harvin </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Min </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>23 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>23 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Jordy Nelson </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>GB </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>29 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>24 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Eric Decker </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Den </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>28 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>25 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Julio Jones </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Atl </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>33 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>26 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">A.J. Green </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Cin </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>34 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>27 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Reggie Wayne </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Ind </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>21 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>28 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Anquan Boldin </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Bal </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>26 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>29 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Marques Colston </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NO </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>40 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>30 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Sidney Rice </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Sea </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>32 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>31 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Mario Manningham </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NYG </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>24 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>32 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Nate Washington </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Ten </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>31 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>33 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Pierre Garcon </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Ind </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>36 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>34 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Mike Thomas </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Jac </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>27 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>35 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Robert Meachem </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NO </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>25 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>36 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Nate Burleson </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Det </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>30 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>37 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Victor Cruz </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NYG </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>51 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>38 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Lance Moore </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NO </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>35 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>39 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Johnny Knox </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Chi </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>37 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>40 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Plaxico Burress </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NYJ </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>41 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>41 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Malcom Floyd </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>SD </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>43 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>42 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Deion Branch </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NE </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>42 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>43 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Jacoby Jones </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Hou </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NR </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>44 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Austin Collie </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Ind </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>39 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>45 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">David Nelson </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Buf </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>45 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>46 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Devery Henderson </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NO </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>38 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>47 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Jerome Simpson </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Cin </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>46 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>48 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Denarius Moore </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Oak </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>44 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>49 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Brandon Gibson </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>StL </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>47 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>50 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Antonio Brown </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Pit </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>49 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>51 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Dexter McCluster </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>KC </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>48 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>52 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Laurent Robinson </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Dal </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NR </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>53 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Mike Sims-Walker </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>StL </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>54 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>54 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Torrey Smith </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Bal </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>50 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>55 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Jacoby Ford </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Oak </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>56 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>56 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Kevin Walter </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Hou </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NR </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>57 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Mike Williams </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Sea </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>57 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>58 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Darrius Heyward-Bey </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Oak </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NR </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>59 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Michael Crabtree </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>SF </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>58 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>60 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Mohamed Massaquoi </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Cle </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NR </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>



• As of this writing, we do not know for sure how many games -- if any -- Andre Johnson will miss. I'm speculating he will not play this week, and that's enough for me to move him down five spots at receiver. The fellows who passed him are also playing at a very high level, so it's not exactly a slap in the face. Calvin Johnson is so dominant, even if he's not 100 percent, that he forced himself into the No. 1 spot by scoring two touchdowns every single week. Roddy White dropped a few spots, in part because he just hasn't been as productive as usual but also because hotshot rookie Julio Jones is obviously good enough -- 11 receptions on 17 targets Sunday, perhaps thanks to a favorable matchup versus the Seahawks -- to affect his production.
• Green Bay Packers No. 2 wide receiver Jordy Nelson was rewarded Monday with a new three-year contract extension -- and a big jump in these rankings. Nelson has scored in three of four weeks, and a few of the pending October matchups are certainly appealing (Rams, Vikings). Fellow Packers James Jones and Donald Driver each scored touchdowns among their six receptions and eight targets, but neither made my rankings.
• I don't think Mario Manningham is really behind Victor Cruz on the depth chart, even if it appeared that way Sunday. Cruz does move up my rankings to No. 36, because we know Eli Manning throws enough to make both wide receivers very relevant, but I still think Manningham should be owned. That said, this was a surprising result and is certainly something to watch.
• The return of Marques Colston for the Saints was probably overrated for Week 4; he saw limited snaps and caught one pass on three targets. The thing is, Robert Meachem and Lance Moore also didn't do much, and Devery Henderson, a top fantasy free agent a few weeks ago, caught nary a pass. Look, there might not be enough targets to go around to individual wide receivers on a consistent basis because Sproles and tight end Jimmy Graham have been so good. Colston didn't make my top 25 wide receivers. I think Meachem will remain productive, as well.
• At the back end of the WR rankings, keep an eye on Jacoby Jones in Houston and Laurent Robinson in Dallas. Jones likely will replace Andre Johnson in the starting lineup, and he's more of a deep threat than Kevin Walter. Robinson wouldn't start over Dez Bryant or Miles Austin, but do you know for sure both of those guys will get and remain healthy? Also, everyone seemed to overrate Denarius Moore of Oakland against the weak Patriots pass defense; he caught three passes for 19 yards, though one was a touchdown. Darrius Heyward-Bey led the team in targets. Of course he did. I still like Moore and Jacoby Ford, but I'm doubting any Raiders wide receiver will be a top-40 option this season.
Top 30 Tight Ends

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<TABLE style="MARGIN: 0px; WIDTH: 100%"><THEAD><TR><TH style="WIDTH: 50px; VERTICAL-ALIGN: bottom"><CENTER>Rank </CENTER></TH><TH style="WIDTH: 200px; VERTICAL-ALIGN: bottom">Player <CENTER></CENTER></TH><TH style="WIDTH: 50px; VERTICAL-ALIGN: bottom"><CENTER>Team </CENTER></TH><TH style="WIDTH: 50px; VERTICAL-ALIGN: bottom"><CENTER>Prev. </CENTER></TH></TR></THEAD><TBODY><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>1 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Jason Witten </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Dal </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>2 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>2 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Jermichael Finley </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>GB </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>1 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>3 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Jimmy Graham </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NO </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>5 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>4 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Vernon Davis </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>SF </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>4 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>5 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Owen Daniels </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Hou </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>6 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>6 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Rob Gronkowski </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NE </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>7 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>7 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Antonio Gates </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>SD </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>3 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>8 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Tony Gonzalez </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Atl </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>9 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>9 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Dustin Keller </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NYJ </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>8 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>10 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Aaron Hernandez </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NE </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>13 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>11 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Greg Olsen </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Car </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>12 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>12 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Dallas Clark </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Ind </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>10 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>13 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Kellen Winslow </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>TB </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>11 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>14 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Brandon Pettigrew </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Det </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>14 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>15 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Jermaine Gresham </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Cin </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>19 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>16 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Jared Cook </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Ten </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>24 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>17 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Scott Chandler </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Buf </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>16 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>18 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Fred Davis </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Was </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>15 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>19 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Marcedes Lewis </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Jac </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>17 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>20 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Zach Miller </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Sea </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>18 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>21 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Ed Dickson </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Bal </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>26 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>22 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Todd Heap </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Ari </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>20 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>23 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Chris Cooley </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Was </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>22 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>24 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Visanthe Shiancoe </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Min </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>30 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>25 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Kevin Boss </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Oak </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NR </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>26 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Lance Kendricks </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>StL </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>23 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>27 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">James Casey </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Hou </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>21 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>28 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Benjamin Watson </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Cle </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>25 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>29 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Heath Miller </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Pit </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>27 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>30 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Randy McMichael </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>SD </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>28 </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>



• If I'm going to drop Andre Johnson several spots for an injury that could hurt fantasy owners, the same goes for Antonio Gates. Of course, Gates' foot injury has been a problem since last year, and might never go away. There are so many strong tight ends that Gates might leave the top 10 in a week or two. The Saints' Graham continues to thrive, and one certainly could do worse than future Hall of Famer Tony Gonzalez, who has four touchdowns in as many games.
• Of course, even the top tight ends occasionally will be volatile. The Packers score 49 points, but Jermichael Finley nabs two fantasy points. That score doubled up Patriots stud Rob Gronkowski, who was easily the top scorer at this position entering Week 4. Gronkowski should remain productive, though, even with the possible return of Aaron Hernandez, who moves back into the top 10.
• There are a few other names to watch in deeper formats. We've discussed Tennessee's Jared Cook in this space before; he was one of my sleepers. For three weeks, Cook slept for fantasy owners, accruing four fantasy points. His 80-yard touchdown Sunday, with most of the yards coming after the catch, was impressive -- and perhaps a harbinger of good things to come. Kevin Boss of Oakland joins the rankings after a productive game, and Baltimore's Ed Dickson caught only four passes, but the 12 targets he received is certainly worth noticing. He's clearly a part of the passing game, but Flacco needs to be more accurate.
Top 32 Defense/Special Teams

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<TABLE style="MARGIN: 0px; WIDTH: 100%"><THEAD><TR><TH style="WIDTH: 40px; VERTICAL-ALIGN: bottom"><CENTER>Rank </CENTER></TH><TH style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: bottom">Player <CENTER></CENTER></TH><TH style="WIDTH: 40px; VERTICAL-ALIGN: bottom"><CENTER>Prev. </CENTER></TH><TH style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffff; WIDTH: 5px; VERTICAL-ALIGN: bottom"><CENTER></CENTER></TH><TH style="WIDTH: 40px; VERTICAL-ALIGN: bottom"><CENTER>Rank </CENTER></TH><TH style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: bottom">Player <CENTER></CENTER></TH><TH style="WIDTH: 40px; VERTICAL-ALIGN: bottom"><CENTER>Prev. </CENTER></TH></TR></THEAD><TBODY><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>1 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Baltimore Ravens </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>2 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle></TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>17 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Tampa Bay Buccaneers </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>16 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>2 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">New York Jets </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>4 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle></TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>18 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Dallas Cowboys </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>13 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>3 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Green Bay Packers </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>3 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle></TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>19 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Buffalo Bills </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>20 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>4 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Detroit Lions </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>7 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle></TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>20 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Cleveland Browns </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>19 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>5 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Chicago Bears </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>6 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle></TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>21 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Cincinnati Bengals </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>23 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>6 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">New Orleans Saints </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>8 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle></TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>22 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">New England Patriots </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>17 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>7 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">San Diego Chargers </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>9 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle></TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>23 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Seattle Seahawks </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>24 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>8 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Pittsburgh Steelers </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>1 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle></TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>24 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Minnesota Vikings </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>26 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>9 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Philadelphia Eagles </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>5 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle></TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>25 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Jacksonville Jaguars </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>32 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>10 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Washington Redskins </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>15 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle></TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>26 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Indianapolis Colts </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>28 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>11 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Houston Texans </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>18 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle></TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>27 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Arizona Cardinals </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>31 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>12 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">San Francisco 49ers </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>14 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle></TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>28 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Miami Dolphins </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>21 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>13 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Tennessee Titans </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>22 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle></TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>29 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Carolina Panthers </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>29 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>14 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Atlanta Falcons </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>10 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle></TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>30 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Kansas City Chiefs </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>25 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>15 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">New York Giants </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>11 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle></TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>31 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Denver Broncos </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>30 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>16 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Oakland Raiders </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>12 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle></TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>32 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">St. Louis Rams </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>27 </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>



Top 100 Overall

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<TABLE style="MARGIN: 0px; WIDTH: 100%"><THEAD><TR><TH style="WIDTH: 50px; VERTICAL-ALIGN: bottom"><CENTER>Ovr.
Rank </CENTER></TH><TH style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: bottom">Player </TH><TH style="WIDTH: 50px; VERTICAL-ALIGN: bottom"><CENTER>Team </CENTER></TH><TH style="WIDTH: 50px; VERTICAL-ALIGN: bottom"><CENTER>Pos.
Rank </CENTER></TH><TH style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: bottom"><CENTER>Next 3
Weeks </CENTER></TH><TH style="WIDTH: 50px; VERTICAL-ALIGN: bottom"><CENTER>Prev. </CENTER></TH></TR></THEAD><TBODY><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>1 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Adrian Peterson </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Min </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>RB1 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>ARI, @CHI, GB </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>1 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>2 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Ray Rice </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Bal </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>RB2 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>bye, HOU, @JAC </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>3 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>3 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Darren McFadden </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Oak </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>RB3 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@HOU, CLE, KC </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>4 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>4 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">LeSean McCoy </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Phi </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>RB4 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@BUF, @WAS, bye </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>2 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>5 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Arian Foster </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Hou </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>RB5 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>OAK, @BAL, @TEN </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>28 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>6 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Chris Johnson </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Ten </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>RB6 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@PIT, bye, HOU </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>6 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>7 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Maurice Jones-Drew </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Jac </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>RB7 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>CIN, @PIT, BAL </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>5 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>8 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Calvin Johnson </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Det </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>WR1 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>CHI, SF, ATL </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>9 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>9 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Greg Jennings </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>GB </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>WR2 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@ATL, STL, @MIN </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>15 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>10 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Matt Forte </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Chi </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>RB8 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@DET, MIN, @TB </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>10 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>11 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Michael Turner </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Atl </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>RB9 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>GB, CAR, @DET </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>13 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>12 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Fred Jackson </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Buf </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>RB10 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>PHI, @NYG, bye </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>14 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>13 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Ahmad Bradshaw </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NYG </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>RB11 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>SEA, BUF, bye </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>11 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>14 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Vincent Jackson </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>SD </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>WR3 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@DEN, bye, @NYJ </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>20 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>15 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Frank Gore </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>SF </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>RB12 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>TB, @DET, bye </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>31 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>16 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Aaron Rodgers </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>GB </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>QB1 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@ATL, STL, @MIN </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>18 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>17 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Beanie Wells </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Ari </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>RB13 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@MIN, bye, PIT </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>38 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>18 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Tom Brady </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NE </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>QB2 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NYJ, DAL, bye </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>12 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>19 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Mike Wallace </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Pit </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>WR4 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>TEN, JAC, @ARI </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>22 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>20 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Larry Fitzgerald </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Ari </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>WR5 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@MIN, bye, PIT </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>24 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>21 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Drew Brees </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NO </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>QB3 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@CAR, @TB, IND </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>21 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>22 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Andre Johnson </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Hou </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>WR6 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>OAK, @BAL, @TEN </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>8 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>23 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">LeGarrette Blount </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>TB </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>RB14 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@SF, NO, CHI </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>23 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>24 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Roddy White </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Atl </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>WR7 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>GB, CAR, @DET </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>19 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>25 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Hakeem Nicks </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NYG </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>WR8 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>SEA, BUF, bye </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>26 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>26 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Wes Welker </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NE </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>WR9 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NYJ, DAL, bye </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>32 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>27 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Jahvid Best </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Det </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>RB15 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>CHI, SF, ATL </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>16 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>28 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Dez Bryant </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Dal </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>WR10 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>bye, @NE, STL </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>27 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>29 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">DeSean Jackson </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Phi </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>WR11 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@BUF, @WAS, bye </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>30 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>30 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Philip Rivers </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>SD </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>QB4 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@DEN, bye, @NYJ </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>25 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>31 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Ryan Mathews </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>SD </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>RB16 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@DEN, bye, @NYJ </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>35 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>32 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Steve Smith </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Car </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>WR12 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NO, @ATL, WAS </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>52 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>33 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Brandon Lloyd </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Den </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>WR13 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>SD, bye, @MIA </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>46 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>34 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Rashard Mendenhall </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Pit </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>RB17 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>TEN, JAC, @ARI </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>7 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>35 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Dwayne Bowe </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>KC </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>WR14 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@IND, bye, @OAK </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>45 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>36 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Steven Jackson </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>StL </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>RB18 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>bye, @GB, @DAL </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>39 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>37 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Peyton Hillis </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Cle </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>RB19 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>bye, @OAK, SEA </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>17 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>38 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Tony Romo </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Dal </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>QB5 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>bye, @NE, STL </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>33 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>39 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">BenJarvus Green-Ellis </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NE </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>RB20 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NYJ, DAL, bye </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>37 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>40 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Matthew Stafford </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Det </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>QB6 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>CHI, SF, ATL </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>54 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>41 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Darren Sproles </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NO </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>RB21 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@CAR, @TB, IND </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>74 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>42 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Jason Witten </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Dal </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>TE1 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>bye, @NE, STL </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>49 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>43 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Brandon Marshall </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Mia </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>WR15 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>bye, @NYJ, DEN </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>29 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>44 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Felix Jones </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Dal </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>RB22 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>bye, @NE, STL </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>51 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>45 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Jeremy Maclin </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Phi </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>WR16 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@BUF, @WAS, bye </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>34 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>46 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Steve Johnson </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Buf </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>WR17 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>PHI, @NYG, bye </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>43 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>47 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Mike Tolbert </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>SD </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>RB23 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@DEN, bye, @NYJ </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>57 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>48 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Santonio Holmes </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NYJ </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>WR18 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@NE, MIA, SD </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>48 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>49 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Jermichael Finley </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>GB </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>TE2 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@ATL, STL, @MIN </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>42 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>50 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Miles Austin </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Dal </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>WR19 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>bye, @NE, STL </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>50 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>51 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Daniel Thomas </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Mia </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>RB24 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>bye, @NYJ, DEN </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>47 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>52 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Santana Moss </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Was </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>WR20 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>bye, PHI, @CAR </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>55 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>53 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Mike Williams </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>TB </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>WR21 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@SF, NO, CHI </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>36 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>54 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Michael Vick </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Phi </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>QB7 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@BUF, @WAS, bye </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>68 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>55 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Percy Harvin </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Min </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>WR22 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>ARI, @CHI, GB </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>56 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>56 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Jordy Nelson </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>GB </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>WR23 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@ATL, STL, @MIN </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>67 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>57 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">James Starks </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>GB </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>RB25 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@ATL, STL, @MIN </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>60 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>58 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Eric Decker </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Den </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>WR24 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>SD, bye, @MIA </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>66 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>59 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Julio Jones </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Atl </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>WR25 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>GB, CAR, @DET </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>79 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>60 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">DeAngelo Williams </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Car </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>RB26 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NO, @ATL, WAS </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>80 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>61 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">A.J. Green </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Cin </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>WR26 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@JAC, IND, bye </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>81 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>62 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Matt Schaub </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Hou </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>QB8 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>OAK, @BAL, @TEN </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>40 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>63 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Jimmy Graham </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NO </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>TE3 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@CAR, @TB, IND </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>76 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>64 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Reggie Wayne </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Ind </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>WR27 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>KC, @CIN, @NO </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>53 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>65 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Cedric Benson </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Cin </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>RB27 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@JAC, IND, bye </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>41 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>66 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Anquan Boldin </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Bal </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>WR28 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>bye, HOU, @JAC </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>61 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>67 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Marques Colston </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NO </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>WR29 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@CAR, @TB, IND </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>94 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>68 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Cam Newton </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Car </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>QB9 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NO, @ATL, WAS </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NR </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>69 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Vernon Davis </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>SF </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>TE4 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>TB, @DET, bye </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>69 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>70 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Joseph Addai </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Ind </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>RB28 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>KC, @CIN, @NO </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>70 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>71 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Ryan Torain </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Was </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>RB29 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>bye, PHI, @CAR </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NR </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>72 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Sidney Rice </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Sea </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>WR30 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@NYG, bye, @CLE </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>78 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>73 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Mario Manningham </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NYG </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>WR31 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>SEA, BUF, bye </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>58 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>74 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Jonathan Stewart </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Car </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>RB30 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NO, @ATL, WAS </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>71 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>75 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Eli Manning </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NYG </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>QB10 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>SEA, BUF, bye </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>75 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>76 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Owen Daniels </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Hou </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>TE5 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>OAK, @BAL, @TEN </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>87 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>77 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Josh Freeman </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>TB </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>QB11 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@SF, NO, CHI </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>77 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>78 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Nate Washington </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Ten </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>WR32 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@PIT, bye, HOU </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>73 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>79 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Pierre Garcon </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Ind </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>WR33 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>KC, @CIN, @NO </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>85 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>80 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Shonn Greene </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NYJ </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>RB31 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@NE, MIA, SD </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>84 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>81 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Mike Thomas </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Jac </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>WR34 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>CIN, @PIT, BAL </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>64 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>82 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Willis McGahee </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Den </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>RB32 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>SD, bye, @MIA </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NR </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>83 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Robert Meachem </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NO </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>WR35 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@CAR, @TB, IND </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>59 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>84 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Montario Hardesty </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Cle </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>RB33 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>bye, @OAK, SEA </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>82 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>85 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Nate Burleson </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Det </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>WR36 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>CHI, SF, ATL </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>72 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>86 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Ben Roethlisberger </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Pit </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>QB12 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>TEN, JAC, @ARI </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>62 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>87 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Rob Gronkowski </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NE </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>TE6 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NYJ, DAL, bye </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>97 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>88 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Victor Cruz </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NYG </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>WR37 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>SEA, BUF, bye </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NR </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>89 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Lance Moore </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NO </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>WR38 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@CAR, @TB, IND </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>83 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>90 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Michael Bush </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Oak </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>RB34 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@HOU, CLE, KC </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NR </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>91 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Ben Tate </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Hou </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>RB35 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>OAK, @BAL, @TEN </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>44 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>92 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Marshawn Lynch </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Sea </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>RB36 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@NYG, bye, @CLE </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>95 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>93 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Johnny Knox </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Chi </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>WR39 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@DET, MIN, @TB </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>88 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>94 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Plaxico Burress </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NYJ </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>WR40 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@NE, MIA, SD </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>100 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>95 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Thomas Jones </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>KC </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>RB37 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@IND, bye, @OAK </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>90 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>96 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Stevan Ridley </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NE </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>RB38 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NYJ, DAL, bye </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NR </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>97 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Antonio Gates </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>SD </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>TE7 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@DEN, bye, @NYJ </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>63 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>98 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Tim Hightower </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Was </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>RB39 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>bye, PHI, @CAR </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>65 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>99 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Pierre Thomas </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NO </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>RB40 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@CAR, @TB, IND </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>92 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>100 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Malcom Floyd </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>SD </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>WR41 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@DEN, bye, @NYJ </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NR </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

 

[HacheMan]

Andre Johnson likely out multiple weeks

Stephania Bell

Week 4 continued to provide thrills, drama and, naturally, injuries. Where, oh where, to begin?



[+] Enlarge <CITE>Brett Davis/US Presswire</CITE>Andre Johnson is likely out this week, and probably for a few more games.




How about starting with one of the few wide receivers who rated a first-round draft pick in most fantasy leagues? Houston Texans wide receiver Andre Johnson was running Sunday and then all of a sudden, he wasn't. He went from vertical to face down in a split-second, untouched.


While many thought he had suffered a knee ligament injury, in actuality, it didn't really have the look of a Wes Welker-like ACL/MCL injury, where the athlete plants, changes direction and the knee wobbles and fails. This had the look of failure, as in the sudden failure of a major muscle/tendon unit that just stops a runner mid-stride. The Texans are reporting that Johnson suffered a hamstring strain and that he is seeking additional opinions. Nothing more specific has been offered up yet. www.rapsports.com


Johnson could be seen grabbing the lower part of his hamstring, just above the knee, at the time of his injury which would suggest that the injury was near the tendinous attachment. Those injuries are often slow to heal because of poorer blood supply to the tendon. As of now, it certainly appears the team will be without Johnson for an extended time; fantasy owners should plan on a replacement (although you can't really "replace" Johnson) that can fill in for multiple weeks.


And now on to the rest of the injury happenings in Week 4.


• The Pittsburgh Steelers will have an expanded injury report this week. Quarterback Ben Roethlisberger continues to take a lot of hits and this week it took a toll. Roethlisberger suffered a sprained left foot (Monday tests revealed no fracture). Although it will undoubtedly limit his mobility, he is expected to play Sunday, according to head coach Mike Tomlin. … Running back Rashard Mendenhall's status is up in the air after he strained a hamstring in Sunday's game. ESPN's Bob Holtzman reports Mendenhall is not likely to do much in practice this week, meaning this could translate to a gametime decision. Isaac Redman is looking like a guy who should be picked up. … The Steelers also lost linebacker James Harrison for an extended period with a facial fracture. He is expected to undergo surgery this week.


• Miami Dolphins quarterback Chad Henne left the Week 4 contest early with an injury to his left (non-throwing) shoulder. Henne downplayed the injury initially and despite sporting a sling after the game, he said that he expected to play through it. According to Jeff Darlington of NFL.com, the Dolphins are concerned about a separated shoulder, which could threaten Henne's season. Darlington adds that the team is seeking a second opinion but if Henne were to be done, this could be the beginning of the Matt Moore era.


[+] Enlarge <CITE>AP Photo/Gregory Bull</CITE>Vincent Jackson scored a TD last week but then was sidelined again in the second with a leg injury.




• San Diego Chargers wide receiver Vincent Jackson was able to play through an abdominal strain and deliver some of the best visual highlights of the week with his acrobatic catches. It certainly looked as if it wasn't holding him back. But then Jackson exited the game in the second quarter, raising the suspicion he had indeed aggravated the injury. Jackson returned in the second half but on a very limited basis. Later the San Diego Union-Tribune reported the Chargers indicated Jackson had suffered a "leg strain" as the result of compensating for the abdominal issue. Vague and somewhat bizarre. It's no clear what exactly is going on with Jackson just yet but it does appear the Chargers plan to follow the same plan for him -- very little practice with the hopes of suiting up Sunday -- heading into Week 5.


• Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Mike Williams suffered a concussion in Week 4 and, as is the case with all NFL players, will have to pass a battery of tests and receive medical clearance before he can return.


• New England Patriots running back Danny Woodhead left the game early with a left ankle injury, although there's no indication yet as to whether he'll miss any playing time.


• Washington Redskins running back Tim Hightower played second fiddle to Ryan Torain this week and after the game, head coach Mike Shanahan hinted at a shoulder injury for Hightower, according to the Washington Post. Hmmm. It's hard to know what to expect from the running back committee in Washington, but naturally we will be looking to see who ends up on the injury reports.


• Oakland Raiders running back Darren McFadden continues to impress. Teammate Michael Bush, talented in his own right but often injured, suffered an ankle injury late in Sunday's game. His status for this week is uncertain.
• Best wishes to Indianapolis Colts defensive lineman Eric Foster who dislocated his right ankle Monday night. Anyone who saw the injury won't soon forget it. He has already undergone surgery and will remain in the hospital for several days before beginning his lengthy rehab process.
We will continue to update these injuries and others as the week progresses.

 

[HacheMan]

Grant Far From the Tomb

It’s rare we come across an injury that we haven’t seen lately. So even though Ryan Grant had blood in his urine last week, pardon us for being a little excited.

To help us get a better handle on Grant’s injury, we chatted with Brian Eckenrode, PT, DPT, MS, OCS and sports rehabilitation specialist for GSPP Penn Therapy and Fitness at the Penn Sports Medicine Center in Philadelphia. For more info on GSPP and the Penn Sports Medicine Center, head to Phillyrehab.com.

RYAN GRANT
Injury: Bruised kidney
Status: Expected to practice in full and play in Week 5

Grant had blood in his urine but expected back two weeks later. Is a kidney bruise not as bad as it sounds?
The scary thing about it is it certainly can be a long-term thing if not taken care of properly. The severity of this can vary between a couple days, or something much more long-term, or potentially even life-complicating. But here, it sounds like they caught it, they knew what it was, and it was just a matter of letting his body rest.

How does one bruise a kidney?
In the human anatomy, the kidneys are protected by the rib cage. So you get bruising from a violent hit from the side or a violent impact straight on.

Will Grant be prone to aggravation? Is he in pain?
As he’s recovering he’s going to be little more susceptible to a lesser hit or a lesser shot. He might err on the side of caution a little bit. But his really sounds like it’s on the mild side. It’s not something to take lightly, but he’s obviously gotten every test done. He’s probably clear of the pain side of things.

ROTOWORLD OPINION: The Packers have expressed no public concern over giving Grant a normal load right away. But after he missed a week of practice and James Starks handled himself well once again, this looks like a “hot hand” situation at best. Despite Grant’s Week 3 performance, Starks remains the better player.

Editor’s Note: For early rankings, projections, the Running Back report, the top-200 going forward list and much more, check out the Season Pass!

VINCENT JACKSON
Injury: Abdominal strain, leg strain
Status: Tentatively expected to play in Week 5

Any ideas as to what an abdominal strain actually means?
It can mean any number of things. We don’t know if it’s central abdomen, lower abdomen, is it an abdominal muscle, is it the dreaded sports hernia? Maybe they don’t know what it is yet. It could just be a normal muscle strain.

How can an abdominal strain affect performance?
He likely just doesn’t have the same trunk control or stability in his core because of pain and because of the injury.

How could an abdominal strain lead to a leg injury?
The human body is kind of like machine. If something is not working properly, you’ll find a way to adjust, but whether that way to adjust is something ideal or not is another story.

Someone who has a weak abdominal or core on one side, then theoretically you can’t stabilize your trunk. Your core is the center of everything. It provides a stable base for your arms and your legs to work off of. If there’s something going on in that area, he could potentially be overworking his leg to compensate for the control in his trunk. Essentially it’s just that if you’re out of alignment, it can cause a lot of other problems. He might be overworking his calf in compensation.

ROTOWORLD OPINON: What can we do? Jackson appears to be about where he was last week in terms of health. He embarrassed the Dolphins for 18 minutes before shutting it down in Week 4, putting up 108 yards and a touchdown. If Jackson is active against the Broncos Sunday, we have to play him.


BEN ROETHLISBERGER
Injury: Left foot sprain
Status: Expected to play Week 5

A sprained foot has nothing to do with plantar fasciitis, right?
Not necessarily. A sprained foot could be a lot of things. Is it muscular, is it bone-related? You can sprain the ligaments of the foot itself. The ligaments support the bones and structures around the foot and ankle -- there are lots of little joints in there. If they get stressed beyond what they’re used to, it can be a source of pain.

How could Roethlisberger’s performance be affected?
It can affect one’s ability to push off, run, even weight bear on that leg. Obviously it’s not broken but sometimes even torn ligaments down there can eventually result in surgery. It’s a good thing it’s not broken, but that doesn’t necessarily mean he’s out of the woods.

What can the Steelers do to help him through the game?
They could potentially do something like taping or orthotics. Depending on the severity, that could help.

ROTOWORLD OPINION: This is shaping up as a perfect storm of misery for Roethlisberger. He’s playing with a bad foot that could affect his mobility and ability to push off. His offensive line is a wreck. He’s playing against the No. 1 scoring defense in the NFL. And he probably won’t have Rashard Mendenhall. Big Ben owners need to explore other options.

NEWS OF THE DAY #1
There was no concrete news on Rashard Mendenhall (hamstring) Tuesday, but the signs aren’t good. He’s not expected to practice this week and we have already seen how debilitating hamstring injuries can be for backs and receivers. The Steelers also revealed that third-down back Mewelde Moore suffered a high-ankle sprain in Week 4 and is likely out this week.

So where does that leave us? Isaac Redman is a good bet for 15-20 touches against the Titans Sunday. The annual camp darling is nothing special, but you can’t do much better for a plug-n-play off the wire during a bloated bye week. Redman has a nose for end zone.

NEWS OF THE DAY #2
The Giants’ No. 2 wideout situation is really interesting and really messy. Mario Manningham got benched in Week 4 for running bad routes and dropping balls. We’ve all seen what Victor Cruz can do when given the opportunity on the outside. So what now?

Ideally, the Giants will keep running Cruz opposite Hakeem Nicks and kick Manningham into the slot. But they may want to give Manningham -- who was coming off a concussion -- one more chance to hold on to his job. I’m holding both guys on my bench until we see how the Giants install their game plan this week.

Editor’s Note: Sick of your team already? Get a new one and win cash with SnapDraft!

INJURY QUICK SLANTS
Andre Johnson (hamstring) is tentatively expected to miss three weeks after undergoing a procedure to speed his recovery. … Danny Woodhead (ankle) appears headed for a game-time call. … Chad Henne (shoulder) may be done for the year. The Dolphins are poking around at David Garrard and Jake Delhomme. … Dez Bryant (quad) worked out Tuesday even though the Cowboys are on a bye. He’s trying to get his conditioning right.

DEPTH CHART QUICK SLANTS
Still no word on a Cedric Benson suspension. For now, he’ll almost certainly be in the lineup again Sunday. … Curtis Painter is expected to continue to start. … Marques Colston played just 20 snaps in his return. That will rise quickly. … Dane Sanzenbacher saw just 13 snaps in Week 4, or less than Sam Hurd. … Donnie Avery played just one snap in his Titans debut. … It’s certainly possible the Broncos will turn to Tim Tebow in Week 7. Kyle Orton is an impending free agent and the Broncos will be 1-5 heading into a bye if they lose to San Diego this week. … Willis McGahee is locked in as the Broncos’ feature back.

 

[HacheMan]

Target Watch: Week 5

The total target numbers for the first 4 weeks are starting to round out the variations and give us a better view of who the "guys" will be. So let's see what is up in Targetville, U.S.A.

The numbers by each name are targets for week 4 and then in the parenthesis are the total year to date targets.

All snap count data comes from our friends over at Pro Football Focus.


Arizona Cardinals
Larry Fitzgerald - 11 (35), Early Doucet - 6 (21), Todd Heap - 6 (20), Andre Roberts - 0 (17), Beanie Wells - 2 (8), Jeff King - 1 (6), Anthony Sherman - 2 (4), LaRod Stephens-Howling - 1 (2)

The running attack of Beanie Wells was the story of this game, but we can glean a little from the target numbers. First off, the break out of Andre Roberts isn't happening. Early Doucet beat him in targets 6-0. Doucet would be the speculative add in deeper leagues, but he’s still not getting enough work to be consistent. Todd Heap once again had a decent amount of looks and is worth monitoring as he becomes a part of the regular game plan. Alfonso Smith didn't see much work, but both of his carries were in the red zone and he averaged 8 yards a tote. He is the handcuff for Wells.


Atlanta Falcons
Roddy White - 11 (45), Julio Jones - 17 (37), Tony Gonzalez - 9 (33), Harry Douglas - 0 (13), Jacquizz Rodgers - 1 (9), Michael Turner - 2 (7), Ovie Mughelli - 1 (3), Michael Palmer - 1 (2)
www.rapsports.com
He didn't get into the end zone, but this was Julio Jones' "break out" game with 17 targets to Roddy White's 11. Those numbers will fluctuate based on coverage, but don't be surprised when Jones leads in target numbers off and on this season. There's a very good chance he stays a solid WR2. Gonzo continues to get his targets even while Jones and White get theirs. His incredible body control and hands (or hand) allow him to get the ball even though he can’t separate like he used to.


Baltimore Ravens
Ed Dickson - 12 (32), Anquan Boldin - 2 (30), Ray Rice - 5 (25), Torrey Smith - 6 (15), Vonta Leach - 3 (11), Dennis Pitta - 1 (7), Ricky Williams - 1 (4), LaQuan Williams - 1 (4)

It would be nice if Ed Dickson could start catching some of these targets. He's ranked 4th in targets for tight ends with 32, but 13th in receptions. That 50 percent catch rate is ranked so low I don't want to talk about it. His misses aren't all his fault of course, but that percentage going to have to go up before he’s a top 10 fantasy tight end like his targets indicate.

Boldin was obviously Revis'd but good. The passing game as a whole reeked. Just hold your nose and move on.


Buffalo Bills
Stevie Johnson - 6 (36), David Nelson - 3 (30), Donald Jones - 8 (29), Fred Jackson - 8 (17), Scott Chandler - 2 (14), Brad Smith - 4 (5), C.J. Spiller - 1 (4), Naaman Roosevelt - 1 (2)

The Bengals pass defense slowed down the hot Bills offense and kept most of their playmakers in check. David Nelson only saw 3 targets to Donald Jones' 8. Those two need a clicking offense to both be serviceable. It will be difficult to predict which one will see the targets on any given game day. This game is the downside of Scott Chandler. He sees so few targets that he must get into the end zone to be worthwhile. He's not worthwhile.

C.J. Spiller had only 4 looks. I only bring him up because of his name. He’s of no use in fantasy right now. Unlike Fred Jackson who gets the Eagles anemic rush defense at home in week 5. That smells like victory.


Carolina Panthers
Steve Smith - 10 (41), Greg Olsen - 7 (27), Legedu Naanee - 11 (25), Jeremy Shockey - 5 (20), Jonathan Stewart - 4 (18), Brandon LaFell - 6 (16), DeAngelo Williams - 1 (10)

The 11 targets for Legedu Naanee just shows you how badly the Panthers need Brandon LaFell to step up. Three of those targets were in the red zone and he leads the team with 9 on the season, but has zero touchdowns. If he were a better receiver I'd say grab him, but it's hard to see these target numbers continuing with such poor production. Greg Olsen now has 2 touchdowns and is second on the team with 27 targets. He should continue that pace and is worth a fantasy roster spot with Cam Newton at the helm.

Jonathan Stewart was on the field for 45 plays to DeAngelo Williams' 27 and they both had 12 looks with Stewart getting 2 red zone looks to Williams' 1. The fact that Cam Newton is the goal line back does limit both of their upside (Stewart's more since he'd probably be the goal line back) but with Stewart acting as the passing down back, he is the guy I want in this race.


Chicago Bears
Matt Forte - 5 (33), Johnny Knox - 4 (23), Devin Hester - 2 (21), Dane Sanzenbacher - 2 (17), Roy Williams - 1 (9), Kellen Davis - 1 (9), Sam Hurd - 2 (6)

Twelve total targets for guys not named Matt Forte tell you all you need to know there. Until the offensive line and/or a receiver steps up, there isn't going to be much fantasy production non-Forte-wise.
<!--RW-->Cincinnati Bengals
A.J. Green - 10 (33), Jermaine Gresham - 7 (28), Jerome Simpson - 3 (25), Andre Caldwell - 5 (22), Brian Leonard - 2 (7), Cedric Benson - 1 (6), Andrew Hawkins - 3 (3), Bernard Scott - 2 (2)

It's once again good to see A.J. Green get his proper allotment of targets. He is easily the best receiver in Cincinnati and proves it when they throw him the ball. So far he's been targeted 4, 14, 5, and 10 times. Surprisingly he's had good games when he sees double digit targets.

Jermaine Gresham caught his second touchdown and has seen his targets each week average 7 a game. That's good news especially since he is also seeing a red zone target each week.


Cleveland Browns
Ben Watson - 9 (30), Mohamed Massaquoi - 9 (28), Greg Little - 8 (21), Josh Cribbs - 8 (20), Peyton Hillis - 6 (18), Montario Hardesty - 9 (13), Evan Moore - 2 (12), Alex Smith - 2 (11), Brian Robiskie - 3 (7), Owen Marecic - 1 (3), Jordan Norwood - 1 (2)

Colt McCoy tossed the rock 61 times on Sunday. That's quite a few rock tosses. Even at 350 yards passing that's just 5.7 yards per attempt. Quantity doesn't always equal quantity. These target numbers are skewed beyond belief. Almost every receiver had a season high in targets. And of course not one player had over 57 yards.

Montario Hardesty and Peyton Hillis both had 16 looks a piece. After his sickness and weight loss that is understandable for Hillis but Hardesty has looked good enough to continue eating into Hillis' work.


Dallas Cowboys
Jason Witten - 10 (42), Miles Austin - dnp (24), Dez Bryant - 5 (17), Felix Jones - 7 (16), Kevin Ogletree - 2 (15), Laurent Robinson - 10 (15), Tashard Choice - 5 (9), John Phillips - 3 (7), Martellus Bennett - 3 (6), DeMarco Murray - 1 (3)

With Miles Austin out, Jason Witten and Laurent Robinson picked up the target slack while Dez Bryant got the end zone work. They are on their bye this week, which should give Austin time to get healthy and he will most likely regain his target hoggage, but Robinson looks like he earned the WR3 spot.

Felix Jones was on the field for 46 plays to Tashard Choice's 26. After the bye that number will probably grow even farther apart with Jones getting his shoulder healthy.


Denver Broncos
Eric Decker - 10 (36), Brandon Lloyd - 11 (29), Willis McGahee - 2 (16), Daniel Fells - 3 (15), Matt Willis - 1 (10), Lance Ball - 2 (9), Knowshon Moreno - 1 (4)

Denver has been playing nice with us fake footballers by focusing their targets and touches on three players. As long as Lloyd, Decker and McGahee keep getting the bulk they should be startable in fantasy.


Detroit Lions
Calvin Johnson - 13 (41), Brandon Pettigrew - 9 (31), Jahvid Best - 8 (28), Titus Young - 5 (21), Nate Burleson - 4 (20), Tony Scheffler - 1 (6)

Now four games in it looks like the trend of Titus Young usurping Nate Burleson in targets should continue. It also looks like Brandon Pettigrew is going to see consistent enough targets as well. Both Pettigrew and Young are on the rise and Scheffler and Burleson are on the decline. I know which horses I want to hitch my wagon to.


Green Bay Packers
Greg Jennings - 7 (33), Jermichael Finley - 6 (24), Jordy Nelson - 6 (21), James Starks - 6 (15), Donald Driver - 4 (14), James Jones - 3 (12), Randall Cobb - 3 (8), John Kuhn - 1 (6)

The target numbers at four weeks in Green Bay are giving us a pretty good picture of who needs to be owned right now in fantasy. Driver, Jones and Cobb are going to have their days, but they just aren’t going to see the ball consistently.


Houston Texans
Andre Johnson - 5 (37), Owen Daniels - 7 (23), James Casey - 1 (11), Jacoby Jones - 1 (10), Arian Foster - 5 (7), Kevin Walter - 1 (6), Joel Dreessen - 1 (5)

With Andre Johnson out it was the Arian Foster show and there's no doubt that will be the plan going forward for the Texans while AJ rests his hammy. Jacoby Jones will "replace" Johnson, but he's had trouble doing much with his shots in the past and the same is true for Kevin Walter. Since they will be in run mode for the most part we will probably see more James Casey on the field and I envision them getting him and Owen Daniels more looks going forward.
<!--RW-->Indianapolis Colts
Reggie Wayne - 8 (40), Pierre Garcon - 8 (29), Austin Collie - 7 (27), Dallas Clark - 4 (23), Joseph Addai - 2 (12), Brody Eldridge - 1 (3)

The good news is that Curtis Painter is better than Kerry Collins. How that translates from week to week has yet to be seen, but he did help Pierre Garcon break out with a big game and looked more poised in the pocket. The targets were pretty even for the receivers, but Dallas Clark was needed to block and is not getting the looks he used to. There is some fantasy life left in Indy, but it's yet to be seen how spread out it will be.


Jacksonville Jaguars
Mike Thomas - 11 (40), Jason Hill - 9 (19), Marcedes Lewis - 7 (12), Maurice Jones-Drew - 4 (11), Deji Karim - 1 (7), Zach Miller - 3 (7), Jarett Dillard - 3 (5), Cecil Shorts - 2 (4), Brock Bolen - 1 (2)

Mike Thomas continue to get targeted like he's on a poster at the post office. (The post office is this old timey thing where parcels of goods were sent and delivered). Of course in the Jaguars offense with Blaine Gabbert at the helm there is little upside to all those looks, but it's hard not to believe they will continue to grow together. Jason Hill and Marcedes Lewisalso saw a bump in targets and are worth monitoring as Gabbert gains more confidence.


Kansas City Chiefs
Dwayne Bowe - 9 (31), Dexter McCluster - 4 (20), Steve Breaston - 5 (15), Leonard Pope - 1 (13), Keary Colbert - 4 (8), Le'Ron McClain - 4 (6), Jackie Battle - 1 (3), Jake O’Connell - 1 (2)

There's not much to like here. With absolutely no wide receivers on the Chiefs worth targeting besides Dwayne Bowe it is going to get more and more difficult for him to continue posting the numbers he has so far. The targets should continue and make him at least useable, but the upside has fallen.


Miami Dolphins
Brandon Marshall - 8 (39), Davone Bess - 5 (26), Brian Hartline - 5 (23), Reggie Bush - 2 (14), Anthony Fasano - 4 (14), Steve Slaton - 1 (3), Charles Clay - 2 (3), Lex Hilliard - 1 (2), Jeron Mastrud - 1 (2)

Who knows who the quarterback will be long term, but Matt Moore is the guy for now and in that case it seems the only trustworthy receiver is going to be Brandon Marshall. He is going to dominate the looks no matter who is behind center.

Reggie Bush had an okay game, but isn't going to get goal line work or a big workload even with Daniel Thomas out. As long as Thomas is back after the bye there's no reason to think he won't get the bulk of the work.


Minnesota Vikings
Percy Harvin - 7 (24), Visanthe Shiancoe - 8 (18), Bernard Berrian - 6 (17), Michael Jenkins - 1 (17), Adrian Peterson - 1 (11), Kyle Rudolph - 4 (9), Devin Aromashodu - 2 (6), Toby Gerhart - 1 (4)

Percy Harvin’s usage is on the rise and that is very good news. He's now on a normal wide receiver No. 1 or No. 2 snap count and as long as he stays on the field and is getting 7 targets he is useful. Plus, he had 4 rushes for 67 yards which is a nice little addition to your fantasy stats. If they can find him 11 looks a game it will be hard stopping him from nearing 100 total yards a game.


New England Patriots
Wes Welker - 14 (57), Rob Gronkowski - 5 (27), Deion Branch - 4 (26), Chad Ochocinco - 2 (11), Danny Woodhead - 0 (8), Julian Edelman - 1 (6), Stevan Ridley - 2 (3), Matt Slater - 1 (3), BenJarvus Green-Ellis - 1 (3)

The Wes Welker Three Hours of Power continues to play every Sunday on your local stations. 57 targets for the season is nuts-o-rama. It turned into the Welker, Ridley and Green-Ellis show against the Raiders and all other receivers had to watch from the stands. Of course that is the way of The Hoodie. He saw something he wanted to exploit and that's the way he went. Next week Ochocinco and Branch could have 100 yards a piece (but probably won't).

Stevan Ridley outplayed Benjarvus Green-Ellis once again, but not insanely so. BJGE was on the field for 40 plays to Ridley's 20 and as Ridley's number moves up, which it should, he’ll become even more valuable.


New Orleans Saints
Jimmy Graham - 14 (36), Darren Sproles - 7 (35), Robert Meachem - 6 (26), Lance Moore - 6 (19), Devery Henderson - 1 (17), Pierre Thomas - 4 (14), Marques Colston - 3 (12), Mark Ingram - 2 (4)

Darren Sproles isn't going anywhere, but neither is Mark Ingram. Yes, Sproles is outperforming Ingram, but they are so different that they really aren’t taking away from each other's looks. Pierre Thomas on the other hand is taking away from both of them. Ingram's 17 carries is a nice sign, but getting vultured at the goal line by a fullback is as irritating as it gets. The looks are going to continue to be split fairly evenly between the three with Sproles the only consistent player and that's only in PPR leagues.

The receivers are a bit of a mess right now with the exception of Jimmy Graham. With Colston being eased back into the rotation it's difficult to foresee how the workload will sort out. Right now Meachem and Henderson are getting the most snaps, but Colston will take over for one of them. I believe Henderson will see less snaps as Colston sees more, but it's not a lock.
<!--RW-->New York Giants
Hakeem Nicks - 14 (37), Mario Manningham - 5 (19), Victor Cruz - 9 (18), Ahmad Bradshaw - 5 (17), Jake Ballard - 3 (8), Henry Hynoski - 2 (6), Brandon Jacobs - 1 (6), Danny Ware - 1 (2)

The big surprise from this game was the demotion of Mario Manningham to WR3. He could still have lingering effects from the concussion or just be in a slump, but whatever it is, Victor Cruz is taking advantage. I'm not ready to write off Manningham quite yet though. His skill set is better than Cruz's and he could and should get back on track.

Hakeem Nicks reasserted himself as a top 5 wide receiver and as long as he's getting double digit targets he will stay there.


New York Jets
Dustin Keller - 8 (31), Santonio Holmes - 11 (27), Plaxico Burress - 8 (25), Derrick Mason - 3 (21), LaDainian Tomlinson - 3 (18)

This game set NFL football back at least three decades. The only thing we can really glean from this debacle is that Keller, Holmes and Burress continue to get the bulk of the targets.


Oakland Raiders
Denarius Moore - 5 (20), Darren McFadden - 6 (18), Darrius Heyward-Bey - 7 (17), Derek Hagan - 5 (16), Kevin Boss - 5 (7), Michael Bush - 4 (7), Chaz Schilens - 1 (6), Jacoby Ford - 2 (6), Rock Cartwright - 1 (2)

The target breakdown here makes it difficult to rely on any Raiders receiver. The Patriots pass defense is the worst in the league right now and there was no true star to emerge. Yes, Heyward-Bey went over 100 yards, but he's not becoming the first read every time and hopefully he won't because the upside of Moore and Ford is much higher than Heyward-Bey's. The talent is there, but I'm only using these guys as bye week fillers until one steps up.


Philadelphia Eagles
Jeremy Maclin - 11 (36), DeSean Jackson - 9 (30), Jason Avant - 8 (24), LeSean McCoy - 9 (19), Brent Celek - 4 (16), Steve Smith - 0 (7), Owen Schmitt - 1 (4), Clay Harbor - 3 (4)

Going against a tough run defense and poor pass defense the Eagles went to the air. The target breakdown went as expected with Maclin, Jackson and McCoy getting the bulk, which is nice because that's the way it should be!

Steve Smith didn't see any targets so don't worry about him just yet. Brent Celek is losing targets to Clay Harbor now. Delete fantasy and tight end from your brain when thinking of the Eagles (unless they are opposing tight ends).


Pittsburgh Steelers
Antonio Brown - 10 (33), Mike Wallace - 4 (31), Hines Ward - 4 (23), Heath Miller - 3 (17), Emmanuel Sanders - 2 (13), Rashard Mendenhall - 2 (9), Mewelde Moore - 0 (4), David Johnson - 2 (3), Isaac Redman - 1 (2)

Antonio Brown leads the Steelers in targets through four weeks. That doesn't sound quite right does it? He sure isn't taking advantage of them yet, but I believe he can. But for now he's only worthwhile in PPR leagues.

Both Mewelde Moore and Rashard Mendenhall look like they'll be out next week and Isaac Redman should get the bulk of the carries. He can't do much worse than Mendenhall.


San Diego Chargers
Mike Tolbert - 8 (31), Vincent Jackson - 4 (30), Ryan Mathews - 5 (23), Malcom Floyd - 3 (18), Randy McMichael - 6 (15). Patrick Crayton - 1 (8), Vincent Brown - 2 (3), Kory Sperry - 1 (2)

Mike Tolbert regained some ground with a goal line touchdown and 8 targets, but was still outplayed by Ryan Mathews. It looks like Tolbert isn't going away, but Mathews is playing too well to lose much ground.

Vincent Jackson was in and out of the game with an injury, but no receiver stepped up to fill his void. Vincent Brown did start to see more work and got a couple targets. If I had to wager on what receiver emerges from the dump heap it would be him.
<!--RW-->Seattle Seahawks
Ben Obomanu - 4 (18), Doug Baldwin - 6 (18), Sidney Rice - 6 (16), Zach Miller - 6 (15), Justin Forsett - 4 (15), Mike Williams - 5 (14), Marshawn Lynch - 4 (11), Leon Washington - 1 (5)

Sidney Rice has fit right into the offense and even though I'd like to see more than 6 targets he is making good use out of the few he's getting. Doug Baldwin had a decent game with 6 targets as well, but has been very inconsistent. It will be tough even for Rice to stay consistent in this offense, but his skill level should help.


San Francisco 49ers
Vernon Davis - 6 (23), Michael Crabtree - 9 (17), Josh Morgan - 3 (14), Frank Gore - 2 (11), Delanie Walker - 3 (10), Ted Ginn - 1 (8), Kendall Hunter - 5 (7), Kyle Williams - 1 (2)

He didn't have a huge game, but Michael Crabtree had 9 targets and 5 receptions. I'm guessing his foot is back on track. He's worth keeping an eye on.

The Frank Gore/Kendall Hunter drama before the Eagles game probably made many bench Gore and then he goes and has his best day of the season. That's fantasy football unfortunately. Gore finished with 40 snaps to the "starter" Kendall Hunter's 24. He played through his injury and looked good doing so. This was a nice step for him.


St. Louis Rams
Mike Sims-Walker - 6 (27), Danario Alexander - 8 (23), Lance Kendricks - 9 (21), Brandon Gibson - 1 (21), Cadillac Williams - dnp (17), Greg Salas - dnp (11), Steven Jackson - 8 (9), Austin Pettis - 7 (9), Michael Hoomanawanui - 1 (6), Billy Bajema - 2 (6)

There were a lot of pass attempts in this game and not many receptions. The Rams are perfecting that so far this season. The only good that I see coming out of this is Danario Alexander's usage remains high and his knee is still attached to his leg. He has a ton of talent and if he can stay on the field the production will come around.


Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Mike Williams - 8 (31), Earnest Graham - 6 (28), Kellen Winslow - 6 (26), Preston Parker - 7 (21), Arrelious Benn - 1 (14), Luke Stocker - 4 (8), LeGarrette Blount - 2 (5), Kregg Lumpkin - 3 (5)

Preston Parker emerged from his one target day last week to get back to his normal 7 targets and this time he got into the end zone. He's still only on the field in 3-4 receiver sets, but is making things happen when he gets a chance. After Mike Williams it's hard to trust any of the receivers, but maybe Parker can turn into that guy.

Earnest Graham continues to rack up the PPR points and has 9, 5, 8, 6 targets through the first four weeks and looks like a good bye week filler even though LeGarrette Blount is getting the majority of the playing time now. Thankfully.


Tennessee Titans
Nate Washington - 4 (31), Chris Johnson - 2 (21), Lavelle Hawkins - 4 (13), Jared Cook - 6 (13), Damian Williams - 4 (9), Craig Stevens - 1 (6)

There were a total of 10 receptions in this game and three of them were touchdowns. That's 30 percent for you mathmagicians out there. That at least makes the 6 targets for Jared Cook seem healthy. Don't worry about Nate Washington's 4 targets. He had 7, 11, 9 targets through the first three weeks and then 4 due to Joe Haden and 20 total pass attempts. He's the No. 1 guy and it will usually show in the targets.


Washington Redskins
Santana Moss - 10 (35), Jabar Gaffney - 4 (25), Fred Davis - 6 (22), Tim Hightower - 3 (14), Chris Cooley - 2 (12), Roy Helu - 0 (6), Donte' Stallworth - 1 (6)

Rex Grossman put up some putrid numbers against one of the worst pass defenses in the league, which is not helping his receivers. Right now Moss is the only safe-ish play.

The big news is Ryan Torain, who took over the lead back role. He fits Shanahan's cut and go zone blocking scheme and will most likely be the guy until he gets hurt or something else happens. Tim Hightower and Roy Helu will likely share the passing downs and change of pace runs. Torain is the guy to own, for now.

 

[HacheMan]

Week 5 rankings: Running backs

By Fantasy Staff
ESPN.com


<TABLE jQuery1317850326156="13"><THEAD sizset="0" sizcache="0"><TR sizset="0" sizcache="0"><TH class=header order="0" jQuery1317850326156="8" column="4" count="0">

Berry </TH><TH class=header order="0" jQuery1317850326156="9" column="5" count="0">

Harris </TH><TH class=header order="0" jQuery1317850326156="10" column="6" count="0">

Karabell </TH><TH class=header order="0" jQuery1317850326156="11" column="7" count="0">

Cockcroft </TH><TH class=header order="0" jQuery1317850326156="12" column="8" count="0">Avg. </TH></TR><TBODY><TR class="last even"><TD>1 </TD><TD>Arian Foster </TD><TD>HOU </TD><TD>Oak </TD><TD align=middle>1 </TD><TD align=middle>2 </TD><TD align=middle>1 </TD><TD align=middle>1 </TD><TD align=middle>1.3 </TD></TR><TR class="last odd"><TD>2 </TD><TD>Darren McFadden </TD><TD>OAK </TD><TD>@Hou </TD><TD align=middle>3 </TD><TD align=middle>3 </TD><TD align=middle>2 </TD><TD align=middle>3 </TD><TD align=middle>2.8 </TD></TR><TR class="last even"><TD>3 </TD><TD>Adrian Peterson </TD><TD>MIN </TD><TD>Ari </TD><TD align=middle>2 </TD><TD align=middle>1 </TD><TD align=middle>5 </TD><TD align=middle>5 </TD><TD align=middle>3.3 </TD></TR><TR class="last odd"><TD>4 </TD><TD>LeSean McCoy </TD><TD>PHI </TD><TD>@Buf </TD><TD align=middle>5 </TD><TD align=middle>4 </TD><TD align=middle>4 </TD><TD align=middle>4 </TD><TD align=middle>4.3 </TD></TR><TR class="last even"><TD>4 </TD><TD>Fred Jackson </TD><TD>BUF </TD><TD>Phi </TD><TD align=middle>4 </TD><TD align=middle>8 </TD><TD align=middle>3 </TD><TD align=middle>2 </TD><TD align=middle>4.3 </TD></TR><TR class="last odd"><TD>6 </TD><TD>Chris Johnson </TD><TD>TEN </TD><TD>@Pit </TD><TD align=middle>7 </TD><TD align=middle>6 </TD><TD align=middle>7 </TD><TD align=middle>7 </TD><TD align=middle>6.8 </TD></TR><TR class="last even"><TD>7 </TD><TD>Matt Forte </TD><TD>CHI </TD><TD>@Det </TD><TD align=middle>6 </TD><TD align=middle>10 </TD><TD align=middle>8 </TD><TD align=middle>6 </TD><TD align=middle>7.5 </TD></TR><TR class="last odd"><TD>8 </TD><TD>Maurice Jones-Drew </TD><TD>JAC </TD><TD>Cin </TD><TD align=middle>8 </TD><TD align=middle>5 </TD><TD align=middle>12 </TD><TD align=middle>9 </TD><TD align=middle>8.5 </TD></TR><TR class="last even"><TD>9 </TD><TD>Ryan Mathews </TD><TD>SD </TD><TD>@Den </TD><TD align=middle>9 </TD><TD align=middle>12 </TD><TD align=middle>6 </TD><TD align=middle>8 </TD><TD align=middle>8.8 </TD></TR><TR class="last odd"><TD>10 </TD><TD>Michael Turner </TD><TD>ATL </TD><TD>GB </TD><TD align=middle>10 </TD><TD align=middle>7 </TD><TD align=middle>10 </TD><TD align=middle>10 </TD><TD align=middle>9.3 </TD></TR><TR class="last even"><TD>11 </TD><TD>Beanie Wells </TD><TD>ARI </TD><TD>@Min </TD><TD align=middle>12 </TD><TD align=middle>11 </TD><TD align=middle>9 </TD><TD align=middle>11 </TD><TD align=middle>10.8 </TD></TR><TR class="last odd"><TD>12 </TD><TD>Frank Gore </TD><TD>SF </TD><TD>TB </TD><TD align=middle>15 </TD><TD align=middle>9 </TD><TD align=middle>11 </TD><TD align=middle>15 </TD><TD align=middle>12.5 </TD></TR><TR class="last even"><TD>13 </TD><TD>Ahmad Bradshaw </TD><TD>NYG </TD><TD>Sea </TD><TD align=middle>13 </TD><TD align=middle>13 </TD><TD align=middle>13 </TD><TD align=middle>14 </TD><TD align=middle>13.3 </TD></TR><TR class="last odd"><TD>14 </TD><TD>Jahvid Best </TD><TD>DET </TD><TD>Chi </TD><TD align=middle>18 </TD><TD align=middle>14 </TD><TD align=middle>15 </TD><TD align=middle>16 </TD><TD align=middle>15.8 </TD></TR><TR class="last even"><TD>15 </TD><TD>Darren Sproles </TD><TD>NO </TD><TD>@Car </TD><TD align=middle>11 </TD><TD align=middle>21 </TD><TD align=middle>20 </TD><TD align=middle>13 </TD><TD align=middle>16.3 </TD></TR><TR class="last odd"><TD>16 </TD><TD>Cedric Benson </TD><TD>CIN </TD><TD>@Jac </TD><TD align=middle>20 </TD><TD align=middle>20 </TD><TD align=middle>14 </TD><TD align=middle>12 </TD><TD align=middle>16.5 </TD></TR><TR class="last even"><TD>17 </TD><TD>LeGarrette Blount </TD><TD>TB </TD><TD>@SF </TD><TD align=middle>14 </TD><TD align=middle>15 </TD><TD align=middle>24 </TD><TD align=middle>17 </TD><TD align=middle>17.5 </TD></TR><TR class="last odd"><TD>18 </TD><TD>Joseph Addai </TD><TD>IND </TD><TD>KC </TD><TD align=middle>19 </TD><TD align=middle>22 </TD><TD align=middle>18 </TD><TD align=middle>18 </TD><TD align=middle>19.3 </TD></TR><TR class="last even"><TD>18 </TD><TD>BenJarvus Green-Ellis </TD><TD>NE </TD><TD>NYJ </TD><TD align=middle>22 </TD><TD align=middle>17 </TD><TD align=middle>16 </TD><TD align=middle>22 </TD><TD align=middle>19.3 </TD></TR><TR class="last odd"><TD>20 </TD><TD>Willis McGahee </TD><TD>DEN </TD><TD>SD </TD><TD align=middle>16 </TD><TD align=middle>23 </TD><TD align=middle>21 </TD><TD align=middle>20 </TD><TD align=middle>20.0 </TD></TR><TR class="last even"><TD>21 </TD><TD>James Starks </TD><TD>GB </TD><TD>@Atl </TD><TD align=middle>25 </TD><TD align=middle>18 </TD><TD align=middle>17 </TD><TD align=middle>21 </TD><TD align=middle>20.3 </TD></TR><TR class="last odd"><TD>22 </TD><TD>Mark Ingram </TD><TD>NO </TD><TD>@Car </TD><TD align=middle>17 </TD><TD align=middle>29 </TD><TD align=middle>23 </TD><TD align=middle>19 </TD><TD align=middle>22.0 </TD></TR><TR class="last even"><TD>23 </TD><TD>Shonn Greene </TD><TD>NYJ </TD><TD>@NE </TD><TD align=middle>30 </TD><TD align=middle>16 </TD><TD align=middle>19 </TD><TD align=middle>24 </TD><TD align=middle>22.3 </TD></TR><TR class="last odd"><TD>24 </TD><TD>Isaac Redman </TD><TD>PIT </TD><TD>Ten </TD><TD align=middle>21 </TD><TD align=middle>19 </TD><TD align=middle>29 </TD><TD align=middle>23 </TD><TD align=middle>23.0 </TD></TR><TR class="last even"><TD>25 </TD><TD>Mike Tolbert </TD><TD>SD </TD><TD>@Den </TD><TD align=middle>26 </TD><TD align=middle>28 </TD><TD align=middle>22 </TD><TD align=middle>27 </TD><TD align=middle>25.8 </TD></TR><TR class="last odd"><TD>26 </TD><TD>DeAngelo Williams </TD><TD>CAR </TD><TD>NO </TD><TD align=middle>24 </TD><TD align=middle>25 </TD><TD align=middle>25 </TD><TD align=middle>31 </TD><TD align=middle>26.3 </TD></TR><TR class="last even"><TD>27 </TD><TD>Jonathan Stewart </TD><TD>CAR </TD><TD>NO </TD><TD align=middle>27 </TD><TD align=middle>24 </TD><TD align=middle>28 </TD><TD align=middle>28 </TD><TD align=middle>26.8 </TD></TR><TR class="last odd"><TD>28 </TD><TD>Brandon Jacobs </TD><TD>NYG </TD><TD>Sea </TD><TD align=middle>23 </TD><TD align=middle>33 </TD><TD align=middle>32 </TD><TD align=middle>25 </TD><TD align=middle>28.3 </TD></TR><TR class="last even"><TD>29 </TD><TD>Marshawn Lynch </TD><TD>SEA </TD><TD>@NYG </TD><TD align=middle>29 </TD><TD align=middle>34 </TD><TD align=middle>27 </TD><TD align=middle>29 </TD><TD align=middle>29.8 </TD></TR><TR class="last odd"><TD>30 </TD><TD>Ryan Grant </TD><TD>GB </TD><TD>@Atl </TD><TD align=middle>28 </TD><TD align=middle>27 </TD><TD align=middle>36 </TD><TD align=middle>30 </TD><TD align=middle>30.3 </TD></TR><TR class="last even"><TD>31 </TD><TD>Stevan Ridley </TD><TD>NE </TD><TD>NYJ </TD><TD align=middle>31 </TD><TD align=middle>30 </TD><TD align=middle>30 </TD><TD align=middle>33 </TD><TD align=middle>31.0 </TD></TR><TR class="last odd"><TD>32 </TD><TD>Thomas Jones </TD><TD>KC </TD><TD>@Ind </TD><TD align=middle>34 </TD><TD align=middle>26 </TD><TD align=middle>31 </TD><TD align=middle>34 </TD><TD align=middle>31.3 </TD></TR><TR class="last even"><TD>33 </TD><TD>Dexter McCluster </TD><TD>KC </TD><TD>@Ind </TD><TD align=middle>32 </TD><TD align=middle>36 </TD><TD align=middle>38 </TD><TD align=middle>26 </TD><TD align=middle>33.0 </TD></TR><TR class="last odd"><TD>34 </TD><TD>Michael Bush </TD><TD>OAK </TD><TD>@Hou </TD><TD align=middle>35 </TD><TD align=middle>31 </TD><TD align=middle>37 </TD><TD align=middle>37 </TD><TD align=middle>35.0 </TD></TR><TR class="last even"><TD>35 </TD><TD>Ben Tate </TD><TD>HOU </TD><TD>Oak </TD><TD align=middle>36 </TD><TD align=middle>35 </TD><TD align=middle>34 </TD><TD align=middle>36 </TD><TD align=middle>35.3 </TD></TR><TR class="last odd"><TD>36 </TD><TD>Pierre Thomas </TD><TD>NO </TD><TD>@Car </TD><TD align=middle>38 </TD><TD align=middle>32 </TD><TD align=middle>40 </TD><TD align=middle>32 </TD><TD align=middle>35.5 </TD></TR><TR class="last even"><TD>37 </TD><TD>LaDainian Tomlinson </TD><TD>NYJ </TD><TD>@NE </TD><TD align=middle>33 </TD><TD align=middle>37 </TD><TD align=middle>33 </TD><TD align=middle>44 </TD><TD align=middle>36.8 </TD></TR><TR class="last odd"><TD>38 </TD><TD>Kendall Hunter </TD><TD>SF </TD><TD>TB </TD><TD align=middle>37 </TD><TD align=middle>38 </TD><TD align=middle>42 </TD><TD align=middle>35 </TD><TD align=middle>38.0 </TD></TR><TR class="last even"><TD>39 </TD><TD>C.J. Spiller </TD><TD>BUF </TD><TD>Phi </TD><TD align=middle>39 </TD><TD align=middle>41 </TD><TD align=middle>39 </TD><TD align=middle>38 </TD><TD align=middle>39.3 </TD></TR><TR class="last odd"><TD>40 </TD><TD>Knowshon Moreno </TD><TD>DEN </TD><TD>SD </TD><TD align=middle>41 </TD><TD align=middle>39 </TD><TD align=middle>35 </TD><TD align=middle>43 </TD><TD align=middle>39.5 </TD></TR><TR class="last even"><TD>41 </TD><TD>Delone Carter </TD><TD>IND </TD><TD>KC </TD><TD align=middle>40 </TD><TD align=middle>43 </TD><TD align=middle>44 </TD><TD align=middle>41 </TD><TD align=middle>42.0 </TD></TR><TR class="last odd"><TD>42 </TD><TD>Marion Barber </TD><TD>CHI </TD><TD>@Det </TD><TD align=middle>45 </TD><TD align=middle>40 </TD><TD align=middle>46 </TD><TD align=middle>40 </TD><TD align=middle>42.8 </TD></TR><TR class="last even"><TD>43 </TD><TD>Rashard Mendenhall </TD><TD>PIT </TD><TD>Ten </TD><TD align=middle>NR </TD><TD align=middle>NR </TD><TD align=middle>26 </TD><TD align=middle>NR </TD><TD align=middle>44.8 </TD></TR><TR class="last odd"><TD>44 </TD><TD>Danny Woodhead </TD><TD>NE </TD><TD>NYJ </TD><TD align=middle>NR </TD><TD align=middle>NR </TD><TD align=middle>41 </TD><TD align=middle>39 </TD><TD align=middle>45.5 </TD></TR><TR class="last even"><TD>45 </TD><TD>Jacquizz Rodgers </TD><TD>ATL </TD><TD>GB </TD><TD align=middle>43 </TD><TD align=middle>45 </TD><TD align=middle>50 </TD><TD align=middle>45 </TD><TD align=middle>45.8 </TD></TR><TR class="last odd"><TD>46 </TD><TD>Bernard Scott </TD><TD>CIN </TD><TD>@Jac </TD><TD align=middle>44 </TD><TD align=middle>NR </TD><TD align=middle>43 </TD><TD align=middle>46 </TD><TD align=middle>46.0 </TD></TR><TR class="last even"><TD>47 </TD><TD>John Kuhn </TD><TD>GB </TD><TD>@Atl </TD><TD align=middle>42 </TD><TD align=middle>46 </TD><TD align=middle>47 </TD><TD align=middle>NR </TD><TD align=middle>46.5 </TD></TR><TR class="last odd"><TD>48 </TD><TD>Earnest Graham </TD><TD>TB </TD><TD>@SF </TD><TD align=middle>48 </TD><TD align=middle>42 </TD><TD align=middle>NR </TD><TD align=middle>48 </TD><TD align=middle>47.3 </TD></TR><TR class="last even"><TD>49 </TD><TD>Ronnie Brown </TD><TD>PHI </TD><TD>@Buf </TD><TD align=middle>47 </TD><TD align=middle>NR </TD><TD align=middle>NR </TD><TD align=middle>42 </TD><TD align=middle>47.8 </TD></TR><TR class="last odd"><TD>50 </TD><TD>Deji Karim </TD><TD>JAC </TD><TD>Cin </TD><TD align=middle>50 </TD><TD align=middle>47 </TD><TD align=middle>48 </TD><TD align=middle>47 </TD><TD align=middle>48.0 </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

 

[HacheMan]

Ranks reax: Losing faith in the Steelers

Eric Karabell

Whenever I look at any rankings, either the ESPN Week 5 rankings or other ones, there's always a name or two that just feels out of place. For me, heading into Week 5, those names belong to individuals on the Pittsburgh Steelers. I felt good about Ben Roethlisberger as a top-10 quarterback and Rashard Mendenhall as a top-10 running back and the team's normally stingy defense before the season … but no longer.

Roethlisberger is likely to play this weekend, but fantasy owners who leave him active simply based on his name, loyalty or previous numbers are missing the obvious: Not only is he limping around on a sprained left foot, but his situation reminds me of a far quicker and just as compelling quarterback calling another Pennsylvania city home. Michael Vick can't stay healthy behind a beaten and battered offensive line, and neither can Roethlisberger. At least Vick is playing decently; Big Ben ranks 28th in standard quarterback scoring so far. Even Donovan McNabb has more! Aaron Rodgers scored more in Week 4 alone than Roethlisberger has scored all season. Don't drop Roethlisberger, but a show-me game against a strong Tennessee Titans defense -- a top-10 fantasy defense so far -- is no time to expect a turnaround.
<OFFER>Same goes with Mendenhall, who is averaging a poor 3.0 yards per rush. He's 30th in the league in rushing yards, but of the fellows ahead of him, only Chris Johnson -- their teams go head-to-head this week! -- has a lower yards per carry. And Johnson's best is clearly to come. With Mendenhall, nursing a sore hamstring and unlikely to practice much this week, I can't say that. Watch the Steelers and you'll see the line is a big problem, more so than in prior seasons. I was the only ranker to think Mendenhall will play Sunday, but his No. 26 rank certainly is out of whack with the first four weeks, or last year for that matter.

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<CITE>AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar</CITE>The Steelers' defense will be without one of its top players, James Harrison, for several weeks, according to ESPN's John Clayton.




Don't expect a ton from Isaac Redman, either. He's a big guy at 230 pounds, but there's only so much you can do when there are no gaps to run through. Redman has averaged 4.7 yards per rush in his career (75 attempts), but again, this is not the week to expect much. I ranked Redman 29th, easily the worst in the group, partly because I think Mendenhall will play -- it was described as a mild injury -- but also because the Titans have controlled the running game since facing Maurice Jones-Drew in Week 1.
As for the Steelers' defense, my able colleague Tristan H. Cockcroft discussed that sad situation, and I concur. I ranked the Steelers' defense 17th this week. I never thought I'd see that. I wouldn't necessarily move on, because their Weeks 6 and 7 games against the Jaguars and Cardinals, respectively, are attractive, but without James Harrison, I see that defense as a future waiver pickup when the six-team byes end, not the No. 1 unit drafted this season. Move on.
Wanna use a Steeler? I like Mike Wallace, as always. And Antonio Brown remains on my list of wide receivers to add now, before he really blossoms. And that's it.
Here are a few other names that appear to look out of place in my rankings, though they're mainly matchup-related: LeGarrette Blount, RB, Buccaneers: Yep, he just torched the Indianapolis Colts' awful run defense for 127 yards and 19 fantasy points, and I have him ranked a meager 24th this week against the San Francisco 49ers? What's going on here? Well, I just saw the Niners shut down LeSean McCoy to the tune of 18 rushing yards. Through four weeks, the underrated San Francisco defense -- the linebackers are terrific, unlike embarrassing Philly -- has permitted an average of 6.8 fantasy points per game to opposing running backs. The next most formidable run defense is Baltimore's 10 fantasy points per game. The 49ers are legit. As such, Blount is not a strong play this week, in my opinion.

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<CITE>Thomas Campbell/US Presswire</CITE>Jacoby Jones has had his moments, especially when Andre Johnson has been out.




Jacoby Jones, WR, Houston Texans: I've seen enough of him to cease believing he's a breakout performer; he's 27 now. That said, he did have a good final two weeks of last season when Andre Johnson was out, and he should be productive the next few weeks. Like the other rankers, I chose Jones over Kevin Walter, but what I really think happens is Arian Foster just goes off for 150 rushing yards per week. I also gave what I thought was a strong rank to tight end James Casey; look for myriad opportunities for Owen Daniels and other tight ends to line up on the outside. Casey gets downfield well, and I can see him being productive. I ranked Jones more of a flex than starter this week. Pierre Garcon, WR, Indianapolis Colts: Here's where I am not buying. Yes, Garcon appeared to have a rather good game Monday night against the Buccaneers, with his 26 fantasy points accrued on 146 receiving yards and two touchdowns. Those were his lone catches. New quarterback Curtis Painter really didn't look any better to me than what Kerry Collins was showing; Garcon just caught a few short passes and did all the work, with 129 yards after the catch. You cannot rely on that consistently. I ranked Painter 25th of 26 quarterbacks this week -- only Blaine Gabbert didn't make my (or our staff) ranks -- and I gave the worst ranking for Garcon, and was probably too kind to Reggie Wayne at No. 20. Sorry folks, the Indy offensive situation really didn't get better except for two broken plays.

 

[HacheMan]

By Ken Daube
Special to ESPN.com


The more you look at the statistics, the more you will be convinced: Cam Newton will be an elite quarterback in this league for a long, long time. Consider these statistics, courtesy of ESPN Stats & Information:
Only eight NFL quarterbacks have completion percentages of at least 50 percent on passes that travel farther than 20 yards in the air. The other seven average fewer than seven of such completions each. Newton has 15 for 523 yards. That's 169 more yards than any other quarterback has amassed on similar throws.
Worried about how Newton performs against the blitz because he's a rookie? Only six NFL quarterbacks have attempted 25 or more passes when a defensive back is blitzing: Newton, Eli Manning, Michael Vick, Tony Romo, Sam Bradford and Jay Cutler. Newton owns both the highest completion rate (68 percent) among those quarterbacks in that situation and the highest NFL passer rating (137.5) as well.
When the Panthers are going to run the ball inside their opponent's 10-yard line, they turn to Newton. Newton has had 10 such carries. If you are wondering about how much the Carolina Panthers' running backs are used in those situations, the numbers are surprising. Jonathan Stewart has only two chances, and DeAngelo Williams' next carry inside the opponent's 10-yard line this season will be his first.
The one area where Newton is statistically the weakest, according to his Total QBR (27.7), is out of the shotgun. In 114 passing attempts from the shotgun formation, Newton has just three touchdowns versus four interceptions and five sacks. That's ironic because his 114 attempts from the shotgun are second in the league (Stafford), and those attempts have resulted in 921 of his 1,386 passing yards.
On target

Receiving yardage is variable because so much of it is dependent on where the quarterback elects to throw the ball. The variations in the number of times a player is targeted by his quarterback may greatly alter a player's value. It's important to look at the underlying target metric on a weekly basis to determine which stud performances were flukes and which dud performances can be written off to a bad day.
With that in mind, the table below not only lists players who are averaging seven targets a game but also provides the standard deviation of the game numbers. Players with a low deviation have a similar number of targets each game, while players with larger deviations have larger swings in the number of targets seen on a game-to-game basis.
Season Leaders, Targets Per Game

<TABLE><THEAD><TR><TH></TH><TH>Total Targets </TH><TH>Avg. </TH><TH>Std. Dev. </TH></TR><TBODY><TR class=last><TD>Wes Welker, NE </TD><TD>57 </TD><TD>14.3 </TD><TD>4.0 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Miles Austin, Dal </TD><TD>24 </TD><TD>12.0 </TD><TD>4.2 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Roddy White, Atl </TD><TD>45 </TD><TD>11.3 </TD><TD>5.4 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Jason Witten, Dal </TD><TD>42 </TD><TD>10.5 </TD><TD>2.4 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Calvin Johnson, Det </TD><TD>41 </TD><TD>10.3 </TD><TD>2.5 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Mike Thomas, Jac </TD><TD>41 </TD><TD>10.3 </TD><TD>1.5 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Steve Smith, Car </TD><TD>41 </TD><TD>10.3 </TD><TD>2.5 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Reggie Wayne, Ind </TD><TD>40 </TD><TD>10.0 </TD><TD>2.4 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Brandon Marshall, Mia </TD><TD>39 </TD><TD>9.8 </TD><TD>2.8 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Hakeem Nicks, NYG </TD><TD>38 </TD><TD>9.5 </TD><TD>3.9 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Julio Jones, Atl </TD><TD>38 </TD><TD>9.5 </TD><TD>5.1 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Brandon Lloyd, Den </TD><TD>28 </TD><TD>9.3 </TD><TD>2.1 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Andre Johnson, Hou </TD><TD>37 </TD><TD>9.3 </TD><TD>3.1 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Eric Decker, Den </TD><TD>37 </TD><TD>9.3 </TD><TD>2.5 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Aaron Hernandez, NE </TD><TD>18 </TD><TD>9.0 </TD><TD>1.4 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Jeremy Maclin, Phi </TD><TD>36 </TD><TD>9.0 </TD><TD>5.2 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Jimmy Graham, NO </TD><TD>36 </TD><TD>9.0 </TD><TD>3.4 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Steve Johnson, Buf </TD><TD>36 </TD><TD>9.0 </TD><TD>3.8 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Darren Sproles, NO </TD><TD>35 </TD><TD>8.8 </TD><TD>1.3 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Larry Fitzgerald, Ari </TD><TD>35 </TD><TD>8.8 </TD><TD>1.7 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Santana Moss, Was </TD><TD>35 </TD><TD>8.8 </TD><TD>1.0 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Kenny Britt, Ten </TD><TD>26 </TD><TD>8.7 </TD><TD>5.1 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>A.J. Green, Cin </TD><TD>33 </TD><TD>8.3 </TD><TD>4.6 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Antonio Brown, Pit </TD><TD>33 </TD><TD>8.3 </TD><TD>1.7 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Greg Jennings, GB </TD><TD>33 </TD><TD>8.3 </TD><TD>1.3 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Matt Forte, Chi </TD><TD>33 </TD><TD>8.3 </TD><TD>4.0 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Tony Gonzalez, Atl </TD><TD>33 </TD><TD>8.3 </TD><TD>1.0 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Ed Dickson, Bal </TD><TD>32 </TD><TD>8.0 </TD><TD>3.2 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Sidney Rice, Sea </TD><TD>16 </TD><TD>8.0 </TD><TD>2.8 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Brandon Pettigrew, Det </TD><TD>31 </TD><TD>7.8 </TD><TD>4.3 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Dustin Keller, NYJ </TD><TD>31 </TD><TD>7.8 </TD><TD>1.3 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Dwayne Bowe, KC </TD><TD>31 </TD><TD>7.8 </TD><TD>1.3 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Mike Tolbert, SD </TD><TD>31 </TD><TD>7.8 </TD><TD>1.9 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Mike Wallace, Pit </TD><TD>31 </TD><TD>7.8 </TD><TD>3.0 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Nate Washington, Ten </TD><TD>31 </TD><TD>7.8 </TD><TD>3.0 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Danario Alexander, StL </TD><TD>23 </TD><TD>7.7 </TD><TD>0.6 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Anquan Boldin, Bal </TD><TD>30 </TD><TD>7.5 </TD><TD>4.9 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Benjamin Watson, Cle </TD><TD>30 </TD><TD>7.5 </TD><TD>2.6 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>David Nelson, Buf </TD><TD>30 </TD><TD>7.5 </TD><TD>4.2 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>DeSean Jackson, Phi </TD><TD>30 </TD><TD>7.5 </TD><TD>3.9 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Laurent Robinson, Dal </TD><TD>15 </TD><TD>7.5 </TD><TD>3.5 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Mike Williams, TB </TD><TD>30 </TD><TD>7.5 </TD><TD>2.5 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Vincent Jackson, SD </TD><TD>30 </TD><TD>7.5 </TD><TD>5.4 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Donald Jones, Buf </TD><TD>29 </TD><TD>7.3 </TD><TD>2.2 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Pierre Garcon, Ind </TD><TD>29 </TD><TD>7.3 </TD><TD>2.2 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Antonio Gates, SD </TD><TD>14 </TD><TD>7.0 </TD><TD>8.5 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Earnest Graham, TB </TD><TD>28 </TD><TD>7.0 </TD><TD>1.8 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Jahvid Best, Det </TD><TD>28 </TD><TD>7.0 </TD><TD>1.4 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Jermaine Gresham, Cin </TD><TD>28 </TD><TD>7.0 </TD><TD>1.4 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Mohamed Massaquoi, Cle </TD><TD>28 </TD><TD>7.0 </TD><TD>1.4 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Santonio Holmes, NYJ </TD><TD>28 </TD><TD>7.0 </TD><TD>4.8 </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

General observations from Week 4 games:
Julio Jones, Atlanta Falcons (17 targets, 11 receptions, 127 yards): In last week's observation about Jones, he was called a starter in all three-receiver leagues. Forget that. Start him in any league.
Jimmy Graham, New Orleans Saints (14 targets, 10 receptions, 132 yards): You'd probably have to pry Graham from the cold, dead hands of whoever owns him in your league, but if you own Antonio Gates, it's probably worth it to offer Gates for Graham. The chances of that getting accepted is probably around 10 percent, which speaks both to how good Graham has been and how scary Gates' injury is.
Legedu Naanee, Carolina Panthers (11 targets, 4 receptions, 27 yards): Don't get excited about Naanee's 11 targets, as he caught just 36 percent of the passes thrown his way. Of course, that was a marked improvement from the 29 percent of passes that he caught going into this game. With a season average below 33 percent, Naanee shouldn't be a blip on the fantasy radar.
Victor Cruz, New York Giants (9 targets, 6 receptions, 98 yards): Until Mario Manningham can show that he's healthy, Cruz will get enough looks to be a viable starter in deep leagues. If you own Manningham or even Hakeem Nicks, it's probably wise to roster Cruz.
Tony Gonzalez, Atlanta Falcons (9 targets, 7 receptions, 56 yards): If you still believe that Gonzalez can't be a top-five tight end, you aren't paying attention. The fewest number of targets that Gonzalez has received in a game this year is seven, and he already has four scores. It's safe to expect an average performance of five catches for 50 yards from here on out, and don't be surprised if he hauls in eight more touchdowns.
Danario Alexander, St. Louis Rams (8 targets, 3 receptions, 46 yards): Alexander's value is tied to Danny Amendola. If Amendola can return from his injury, Alexander can be dropped. If Amendola winds up on the injured reserve list, Alexander will become a viable No. 4 receiver.
Jahvid Best, Detroit Lions (8 targets, 2 receptions, 23 yards): Having six disconnects on running back targets in one game is really odd. A review of the game tape found that only one of these six targets was a non-high-percentage route (crossing route). All other attempts were screens, short passes or passes to the flat. Keep an eye on Best's receiving opportunities, because if he can't get in sync with Matthew Stafford, Best's value will be negatively affected.
Greg Little, Cleveland Browns (8 targets, 6 receptions, 57 yards): If Colt McCoy winds up being a serviceable fantasy quarterback, Little will be worth owning and OK to use as a spot starter. Unfortunately, by the time you'll feel comfortable plugging him into your lineup, most of the NFL bye weeks will have passed.
Big plays, up close

Ten NFL players totaled three or more rushes that gained 10 or more yards each: Matt Forte (6), Frank Gore (4), Willis McGahee (4), Stevan Ridley (4), Cedric Benson (3), LeGarrette Blount (3), Percy Harvin (3), Darren Sproles (3), Ryan Torain (3) and Michael Vick (3).
Ridley's appearance on this list should concern owners of BenJarvus Green-Ellis, as the Law Firm has only five such carries in the New England Patriots' first four games. Ridley looked impressive during the preseason and is showing a similar burst now.
How good is Matt Forte? Among all running backs, his 26 receptions are tied for first, his 310 receiving yards lead the league and he sits in seventh in rushing yardage. If he can find the end zone more frequently, he'll become a top-three fantasy back.
Eight NFL players were given three or more rushes inside their opponent's 10-yard line: Beanie Wells (5), Green-Ellis (4), Michael Bush (3), Lex Hilliard (3), Cam Newton (3), Adrian Peterson (3), Mike Tolbert (3) and Michael Turner (3).
Of that bunch, only Peterson failed to score from that range. Of course, there's no reason to worry, as entering this week, Peterson had scored on 50 percent of such carries this season (three of six).

 

[HacheMan]

Better Late Than Never

The NFL has become a passing league.

This is probably the least controversial statement you could make about the sport in 2011.

With 25 percent of the season in the books, 15 quarterbacks are on pace to throw for over 4,000 yards, including rookie Cam Newton and magazine model Mark Sanchez.

In 2010, only five players reached such lofty passing heights. In 2001? Two. (Editor’s note: In 2001, Kurt Warner passed for 4,830 yards, 699 more than anybody else. Only three players came within 1,000 yards of him. One of them was Aaron Brooks.)

So with teams increasingly reliant on the pass, it’s obviously not surprising the importance placed on the running game has waned.

If we didn’t know better, it would seem some teams put as much effort into finding a feature runner as they do a kicker.

Last year’s Super Bowl winner went with a sixth-round rookie out of the University of Buffalo, while fantasy’s most dynamic back was an undrafted free agent.

With the mentality being you’re just as likely to find a game-changing back on the scrap heap than in the green room at Radio City Music Hall, teams have shied away from making running backs the centerpieces of their drafts.

That’s just one of the reasons the early career struggles of Beanie Wells and Ryan Mathews were so magnified. With executing the pass and stopping the pass now the two most important keys to success for any NFL team, if you decide to use a first-round pick on a runner, they better be the next Chris Johnson.

Wells was far from it in 2009, while Mathews was even further in 2010.

Beanie was more disappointing in 2010 than he was as a rookie, dampening expectations for his 2011 to the point that he was just one spot ahead of Owen Daniels by average draft position this summer, and eight spots behind Marshawn Lynch.

Fantasy players were nearly equally unenthused about Mathews, who despite ending 2010 on a strong note was locked into a time-share with Mike Tolbert.

Flash forward four weeks, and where there was once two towering disappointments are now players are the verge of RB1 status.

After rushing for over 90 yards in both Weeks 1 and 2 before missing Week 3 with a hamstring ailment, Wells had his long overdue breakout in Week 4, shredding the Giants for 138 yards and a trio of scores.

Mathews’ arrival didn’t come at any moment, but through a month of solid performances. San Diego’s would-be backup went for over 100 yards from scrimmage in each of the Bolts’ first four games, averaging 4.7 yards on 61 carries while Tolbert wheezed out an average of 2.6 yards on his 31 totes.

Mathews’ play has been so impressive that HC Norv Turner was confident enough to announce Wednesday he’d like his second-year back to receive 24-to-25 carries a game going forward.

Twenty carries would likely be enough to establish Mathews as a clear-cut RB1. Twenty five? You could start bandying about the term “elite.”

Whether or not Mathews will actually see that many carries is up for debate. It also remains to be seen if either Wells or Mathews, who both have checked injury histories, will be able to stay healthy.

But with some of fantasy’s old guard RB1s beginning to fade — most notably Steven Jackson and Frank Gore — you can’t say no one is looking to step up and take their place.

If you snagged either in the fifth or sixth round of your draft, you could be well on your way to a title.

NEWS OF THE DAY #2 Wells and Mathews are the new guard. Terrell Owens is the polar opposite. That’s not stopping the 38-year-old free agent from trying to remain relevant, however.

Just six months removed from tearing his left ACL, Owens announced Wednesday he expects to be ready to return by November. That would be an amazing feat for any athlete. For a man with 219 NFL games under his belt? It would be downright super human.

But for T.O., proving he’s healthy would be only half the battle. Convincing teams he’s worth the headache would be the other.

Assuming Owens is ready to return by November — an enormous assumption — would anybody be willing to take on a player with more baggage than Tiger Woods and Charlie Sheen combined?

Considering the fact the NFL is currently a league where Mike Thomas, Nate Washington and Mike Sims-Walker all have the title “No. 1 receiver,” the answer is probably yes.

You could point to the fact that fellow mercurial superstar wideout Randy Moss is currently unemployed as evidence that Owens will be greeted by limited to no interest when he begins to peddle his wares in earnest later this month, but that would be to ignore one thing: unlike T.O., Moss has shame. Through back channels, Moss has made it abundantly clear he’d be willing to play for only a handful of teams. T.O.? If you offer the contract, he’ll sign it as long as somebody else isn’t offering more.

On the surface, it may seem safe to say we’ve seen the last of T.O. In reality, we almost certainly have not.

NEWS OF THE DAY #3
On the opposite end of the spectrum from T.O. and Moss is Andre Johnson, a superstar still in his prime who has always kept his mouth shut.

Reports trickled out Wednesday that Johnson has undergone surgery on his ailing hamstring, and will likely remain out through at least Week 7.

Awful news for those who made Johnson a first-round pick, but still better than things looked like they’d be when Johnson crumpled to the ground untouched on Sunday.

Obviously, you aren’t going to find a suitable substitute for Johnson on the waiver wire, but where you really won’t find it is on his own team. Kevin Walter and Jacoby Jones will both see increased looks in his absence, but nothing in their respective histories suggest they will be able to do anything with them.

Look elsewhere for your fill-in, and cross your fingers that Johnson is a quick healer.

INJURY QUICK SLANTS
Danny Amendola (triceps) found out on Wednesday his 2011 season is over. Left in his wake in St. Louis are raw rookies Austin Pettis and Greg Salas, pedestrian veterans Brandon Gibson and Mike Sims-Walker and mysterious sophomore Danario Alexander. Alexander and Pettis offer the most upside. … Vincent Jackson’s “leg” injury has been revealed to be a hamstring ailment. After doing next to nothing in the second half of San Diego’s Week 4 win over the Dolphins after pulling up lame, V-Jax is beginning to look like a dubious play for Week 5. … While Jackson is trending down, Marques Colston is trending up. Limited to just 20 snaps in his return last week, Colston is expected to be in for a full-time role in Week 5. … Stevie Johnson (groin) practiced on Wednesday for the first time in two weeks yesterday, and says he feels as good as he has since Week 2. That’s good news with the Bills set to take on (albeit, a struggling) Nnamdi Asomugha and company in Week 5.

 

[HacheMan]

Week 5 Rankings

Fantasy football owners once revered Mike Martz. The mercurial offensive coordinator would arrive in a new town, and fix everything. The weak-armed quarterback would suddenly throw for big yardage. That undersized receiver would become a weekly starter.

The marriage of Mike Martz and Jay Cutler, one of the most talented quarterbacks drafted in the last decade, seemed destined for big numbers if not victories.
Watching the Bears retreat into a run-first shell last week, it dawned on me that Martz’s time may have passed. Roy Williams was dropping passes. Dane Sanzenbacher did a poor Az-Hakim impression. It all felt so stale.

Cutler glumly contemplated the passes he didn’t attempt while sitting on the bench as Cam Newton put on a show. The Panthers moved up and down the field at will on a veteran Bears defense. Chicago’s attack is built to prevent big plays, but all Newton made were big plays.

It didn’t matter that Brandon LaFell dropped too many passes or Legedu Naanee played a prominent role. Newton has turned one of the worst offenses of the last decade into a high productive group. He fixed everything, just like Martz used to do.


Week 5 Quarterbacks


<TABLE style="WIDTH: 100%"><TBODY><TR class=TableTopRed><TD>Rank</TD><TD>Player Name</TD><TD>Opponent</TD><TD>Notes</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>1</TD><TD>Aaron Rodgers</TD><TD>at ATL</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>2</TD><TD>Michael Vick</TD><TD>at BUF</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>3</TD><TD>Drew Brees</TD><TD>at CAR</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>4</TD><TD>Matthew Stafford</TD><TD>vs. CHI</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>5</TD><TD>Tom Brady</TD><TD>vs. NYJ</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>6</TD><TD>Cam Newton</TD><TD>vs. NO</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>7</TD><TD>Philip Rivers</TD><TD>at DEN</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>8</TD><TD>Ryan Fitzpatrick</TD><TD>vs. PHI</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>9</TD><TD>Eli Manning</TD><TD>vs. SEA</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>10</TD><TD>Matt Ryan</TD><TD>vs. GB</TD><TD>Probable(knee)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>11</TD><TD>Matt Schaub</TD><TD>vs. OAK</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>12</TD><TD>Ben Roethlisberger</TD><TD>vs. TEN</TD><TD>Probable(foot)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>13</TD><TD>Jay Cutler</TD><TD>at DET</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>14</TD><TD>Matt Hasselbeck</TD><TD>at PIT</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>15</TD><TD>Donovan McNabb</TD><TD>vs. ARZ</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>16</TD><TD>Mark Sanchez</TD><TD>at NE</TD><TD>Probable(-)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>17</TD><TD>Josh Freeman</TD><TD>at SF</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>18</TD><TD>Kevin Kolb</TD><TD>at MIN</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>19</TD><TD>Kyle Orton</TD><TD>vs. SD</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>20</TD><TD>Jason Campbell</TD><TD>at HOU</TD><TD>Probable(foot)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>21</TD><TD>Alex Smith</TD><TD>vs. TB</TD><TD>Probable(concussion)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>22</TD><TD>Matt Cassel</TD><TD>at IND</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>23</TD><TD>Andy Dalton</TD><TD>at JAC</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>24</TD><TD>Tarvaris Jackson</TD><TD>at NYG</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>25</TD><TD>Curtis Painter</TD><TD>vs. KC</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>26</TD><TD>Blaine Gabbert</TD><TD>vs. CIN</TD><TD>-</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>


QB Notes: Cutler will throw more in future weeks. He can’t throw less. But Chicago’s ability to win while playing so conservatively doesn’t bode well for Cutler’s pass attempt numbers in the coming weeks. The Bears run-blocking can be decent on the right day. The pass protection just melts down too easily. I think Lovie Smith just freaked out after the second half against the Packers. That was as ugly a half of offensive football as I’ve seen since Jimmy Clausen was battling Tony Pike for playing time. … I would try to trade for Ben Roethlisberger after this week. The Steelers will likely struggle against an underrated Titans group. Tennessee’s secondary is playing very well. After this matchup, Big Ben gets the Jaguars, Cardinals, and Patriots. You couldn’t come up with an easier trio.

One of the best things about Cam Newton: he’s the team’s goal line back. The Panthers repeatedly called runs for Newton near the stripe last week, just like they did earlier in the season. It’s a bummer for Jonathan Stewart owners, but huge for Newton’s fantasy value. … Matt Schaub has quietly not played that well this year. He’s not consistent quarter-to-quarter. Losing Andre Johnson knocks him from fantasy starter status until A.J. is back. … Ryan Fitzpatrick was very inefficient last week. He missed some throws by a big margin and too often went for low-percentage tries. I’ll chalk it up to an excellent Bengals defense. He can pick on Philly’s safeties.

Even Aaron Rodgers’ slightly off throws get caught. The chemistry and level of play between Rodgers and his young receivers is in another stratosphere right now. … Newton’s game last week informs Staffords high ranking. So does Stafford’s complete game. He’s doing a nice job on bombs and touch throws, plays in the pocket and improvisations on the run. Stafford has been especially good on third downs. The Bears are now a neutral matchup, although I worry about how Detroit's slow tackles will hold up this week. … Matt Hasselbeck can’t keep this up. He’s third in YPA. The lack of weapons and relatively conservative approach limit him. … As bad as Mark Sanchez looked last week, he’s not a terrible bye week play against the Patriots secondary. Donovan McNabb is another decent desperation try. He’s really not playing that poorly, and the matchup is right. … One good game against Seattle doesn’t make me trust Matt Ryan just yet.



<!--RW-->Week 5 Running Backs


<TABLE style="WIDTH: 100%"><TBODY><TR class=TableTopRed><TD>Rank</TD><TD>Player Name</TD><TD>Opponent</TD><TD>Notes</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>1</TD><TD>Darren McFadden</TD><TD>at HOU</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>2</TD><TD>Arian Foster</TD><TD>vs. OAK</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>3</TD><TD>Adrian Peterson</TD><TD>vs. ARZ</TD><TD>Probable(calf)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>4</TD><TD>LeSean McCoy</TD><TD>at BUF</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>5</TD><TD>Fred Jackson</TD><TD>vs. PHI</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>6</TD><TD>Matt Forte</TD><TD>at DET</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>7</TD><TD>Maurice Jones-Drew</TD><TD>vs. CIN</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>8</TD><TD>Chris Johnson</TD><TD>at PIT</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>9</TD><TD>Beanie Wells</TD><TD>at MIN</TD><TD>Probable(hamstring)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>10</TD><TD>Jahvid Best</TD><TD>vs. CHI</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>11</TD><TD>Ryan Mathews</TD><TD>at DEN</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>12</TD><TD>Frank Gore</TD><TD>vs. TB</TD><TD>Probable(ankle)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>13</TD><TD>Ahmad Bradshaw</TD><TD>vs. SEA</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>14</TD><TD>Cedric Benson</TD><TD>at JAC</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>15</TD><TD>LeGarrette Blount</TD><TD>at SF</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>16</TD><TD>Mike Tolbert</TD><TD>at DEN</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>17</TD><TD>Michael Turner</TD><TD>vs. GB</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>18</TD><TD>Shonn Greene</TD><TD>at NE</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>19</TD><TD>Mark Ingram</TD><TD>at CAR</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>20</TD><TD>Rashard Mendenhall</TD><TD>vs. TEN</TD><TD>Ranked as if starting (hamstring)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>21</TD><TD>Darren Sproles</TD><TD>at CAR</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>22</TD><TD>James Starks</TD><TD>at ATL</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>23</TD><TD>Jonathan Stewart</TD><TD>vs. NO</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>24</TD><TD>Joseph Addai</TD><TD>vs. KC</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>25</TD><TD>DeAngelo Williams</TD><TD>vs. NO</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>26</TD><TD>Willis McGahee</TD><TD>vs. SD</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>27</TD><TD>Ryan Grant</TD><TD>at ATL</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>28</TD><TD>Stevan Ridley</TD><TD>vs. NYJ</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>29</TD><TD>Pierre Thomas</TD><TD>at CAR</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>30</TD><TD>Brandon Jacobs</TD><TD>vs. SEA</TD><TD>Sidelined(knee)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>31</TD><TD>Isaac Redman</TD><TD>vs. TEN</TD><TD>Move him up to 20 if starting</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>32</TD><TD>Michael Bush</TD><TD>at HOU</TD><TD>Probable(ankle)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>33</TD><TD>LaDainian Tomlinson</TD><TD>at NE</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>34</TD><TD>Dexter McCluster</TD><TD>at IND</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>35</TD><TD>BenJarvus Green-Ellis</TD><TD>vs. NYJ</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>36</TD><TD>Marshawn Lynch</TD><TD>at NYG</TD><TD>Probable(ankle)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>37</TD><TD>Kendall Hunter</TD><TD>vs. TB</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>38</TD><TD>Thomas Jones</TD><TD>at IND</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>39</TD><TD>Knowshon Moreno</TD><TD>vs. SD</TD><TD>Probable(hamstring)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>40</TD><TD>Delone Carter</TD><TD>vs. KC</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>41</TD><TD>Ben Tate</TD><TD>vs. OAK</TD><TD>Probable(groin)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>42</TD><TD>Earnest Graham</TD><TD>at SF</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>43</TD><TD>C.J. Spiller</TD><TD>vs. PHI</TD><TD>Probable(knee)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>44</TD><TD>Jacquizz Rodgers</TD><TD>vs. GB</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>45</TD><TD>Bernard Scott</TD><TD>at JAC</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>46</TD><TD>Ronnie Brown</TD><TD>at BUF</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>47</TD><TD>Danny Woodhead</TD><TD>vs. NYJ</TD><TD>Status Uncertain (ankle)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>48</TD><TD>Deji Karim</TD><TD>vs. CIN</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>49</TD><TD>Jason Snelling</TD><TD>vs. GB</TD><TD>Sidelined(concussion)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>50</TD><TD>Jerome Harrison</TD><TD>vs. CHI</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>51</TD><TD>Marion Barber</TD><TD>at DET</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>52</TD><TD>Keiland Williams</TD><TD>vs. CHI</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>53</TD><TD>Javon Ringer</TD><TD>at PIT</TD><TD>Probable(back)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>54</TD><TD>Joe McKnight</TD><TD>at NE</TD><TD>Probable(finger)</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>


RB Notes: The Bears line opened massive holes against Carolina. That won’t be as easy against Detroit, but it’s safe to expect Matt Forte to get 20 touches. … James Starks cut down on the dancing last week, but his performance wasn’t good enough to keep a healthy Ryan Grant on the bench. Grant stood out in his last game, sticking his foot in the ground and moving upfield quickly. Grant’s lateral agility is gone; he can’t get to the outside. But he showed a lot two weeks ago against Chicago and has earned plenty of snaps.

Javhid Best is like a younger Reggie Bush on crack. It’s a concern he’s averaging only 3.2 yards-per-carry. He’s not on the field as much as you’d like. But the Lions offense is so explosive and Best is averaging more than 12 yards-per-catch. He lines up wide often and beats cornerbacks. It will add up to RB2 numbers, especially against a team like Chicago that struggles against the screen…. I’d just like to point out that Adrian Peterson is the same as he ever was. He leads the league in carries. His yards-per-carry is 4.6, which is his average since 2008. Steve Hutchinson is having an improved season at left guard. This matchup sets up well for Peterson to really break out. There is still potential for him to be the RB1 this year, but I worry about Christian Ponder.

Arian Foster looked like Arian Foster last week. The cutbacks were beautiful to see. Gary Kubiak is going to give Foster a huge workload over the next few weeks. … Carolina’s offensive line played very well last week. They are starting to open up bigger holes in the run game. That helped DeAngelo Williams bust out of his slump, although I still don’t really trust either Panthers back as a RB2.

Don’t underestimate the Bengals defense. They could keep Jacksonville under 10 points this and hold Maurice Jones-Drew in check. … Cincinnati’s offensive line is playing very well. Cedric Benson’s legs look fresh; he can get to the outside. I thought he’d decline by now, but he looks like the same guy. … When the Bills absolutely needed yards last week, they went to Fred Jackson over and over. C.J. Spiller isn’t even a small concern.
<!--RW-->

Week 5 Wide Receivers


<TABLE style="WIDTH: 100%"><TBODY><TR class=TableTopRed><TD>Rank</TD><TD>Player Name</TD><TD>Opponent</TD><TD>Notes</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>1</TD><TD>Calvin Johnson</TD><TD>vs. CHI</TD><TD>Probable(ankle)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>2</TD><TD>Larry Fitzgerald</TD><TD>at MIN</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>3</TD><TD>Hakeem Nicks</TD><TD>vs. SEA</TD><TD>Probable(knee)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>4</TD><TD>Wes Welker</TD><TD>vs. NYJ</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>5</TD><TD>Roddy White</TD><TD>vs. GB</TD><TD>Probable(thigh)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>6</TD><TD>Greg Jennings</TD><TD>at ATL</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>7</TD><TD>Steve Smith</TD><TD>vs. NO</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>8</TD><TD>DeSean Jackson</TD><TD>at BUF</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>9</TD><TD>Mike Wallace</TD><TD>vs. TEN</TD><TD>Probable(ribs)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>10</TD><TD>Stevie Johnson</TD><TD>vs. PHI</TD><TD>Probable(groin)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>11</TD><TD>Vincent Jackson</TD><TD>at DEN</TD><TD>Questionable(hamstring)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>12</TD><TD>Julio Jones</TD><TD>vs. GB</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>13</TD><TD>Santonio Holmes</TD><TD>at NE</TD><TD>Probable(shoulder)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>14</TD><TD>Jeremy Maclin</TD><TD>at BUF</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>15</TD><TD>Dwayne Bowe</TD><TD>at IND</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>16</TD><TD>Brandon Lloyd</TD><TD>vs. SD</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>17</TD><TD>Sidney Rice</TD><TD>at NYG</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>18</TD><TD>A.J. Green</TD><TD>at JAC</TD><TD>Probable(toe)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>19</TD><TD>Jordy Nelson</TD><TD>at ATL</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>20</TD><TD>Percy Harvin</TD><TD>vs. ARZ</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>21</TD><TD>Mike Williams</TD><TD>at SF</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>22</TD><TD>Eric Decker</TD><TD>vs. SD</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>23</TD><TD>Marques Colston</TD><TD>at CAR</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>24</TD><TD>David Nelson</TD><TD>vs. PHI</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>25</TD><TD>Mario Manningham</TD><TD>vs. SEA</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>26</TD><TD>Reggie Wayne</TD><TD>vs. KC</TD><TD>Probable(-)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>27</TD><TD>Nate Washington</TD><TD>at PIT</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>28</TD><TD>Lance Moore</TD><TD>at CAR</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>29</TD><TD>Jacoby Jones</TD><TD>vs. OAK</TD><TD>Probable(knee)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>30</TD><TD>Johnny Knox</TD><TD>at DET</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>31</TD><TD>Mike Thomas</TD><TD>vs. CIN</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>32</TD><TD>Robert Meachem</TD><TD>at CAR</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>33</TD><TD>Nate Burleson</TD><TD>vs. CHI</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>34</TD><TD>Denarius Moore</TD><TD>at HOU</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>35</TD><TD>Michael Crabtree</TD><TD>vs. TB</TD><TD>Probable(foot)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>36</TD><TD>Victor Cruz</TD><TD>vs. SEA</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>37</TD><TD>Plaxico Burress</TD><TD>at NE</TD><TD>Probable(elbow)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>38</TD><TD>Jacoby Ford</TD><TD>at HOU</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>39</TD><TD>Pierre Garcon</TD><TD>vs. KC</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>40</TD><TD>Titus Young</TD><TD>vs. CHI</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>41</TD><TD>Deion Branch</TD><TD>vs. NYJ</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>42</TD><TD>Antonio Brown</TD><TD>vs. TEN</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>43</TD><TD>Kevin Walter</TD><TD>vs. OAK</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>44</TD><TD>Donald Jones</TD><TD>vs. PHI</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>45</TD><TD>Steve Breaston</TD><TD>at IND</TD><TD>Probable(hamstring)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>46</TD><TD>James Jones</TD><TD>at ATL</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>47</TD><TD>Michael Jenkins</TD><TD>vs. ARZ</TD><TD>Probable(-)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>48</TD><TD>Austin Collie</TD><TD>vs. KC</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>49</TD><TD>Patrick Crayton</TD><TD>at DEN</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>50</TD><TD>Early Doucet</TD><TD>at MIN</TD><TD>Probable(hamstring)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>51</TD><TD>Malcom Floyd</TD><TD>at DEN</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>52</TD><TD>Hines Ward</TD><TD>vs. TEN</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>53</TD><TD>Dane Sanzenbacher</TD><TD>at DET</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>54</TD><TD>Devery Henderson</TD><TD>at CAR</TD><TD>Probable(calf)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>55</TD><TD>Chad Ochocinco</TD><TD>vs. NYJ</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>56</TD><TD>Donald Driver</TD><TD>at ATL</TD><TD>Questionable(knee)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>57</TD><TD>Mike Williams</TD><TD>at NYG</TD><TD>Sidelined(concussion)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>58</TD><TD>Derrick Mason</TD><TD>at NE</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>59</TD><TD>Emmanuel Sanders</TD><TD>vs. TEN</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>60</TD><TD>Brandon LaFell</TD><TD>vs. NO</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>61</TD><TD>Roy Williams</TD><TD>at DET</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>62</TD><TD>Steve Smith</TD><TD>at BUF</TD><TD>Probable(knee)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>63</TD><TD>Josh Morgan</TD><TD>vs. TB</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>64</TD><TD>Darrius Heyward-Bey</TD><TD>at HOU</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>65</TD><TD>Andre Roberts</TD><TD>at MIN</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>66</TD><TD>Arrelious Benn</TD><TD>at SF</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>67</TD><TD>Andre Caldwell</TD><TD>at JAC</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>68</TD><TD>Damian Williams</TD><TD>at PIT</TD><TD>-</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>


WR Notes: The use of Percy Harvin as a running back is saving his fantasy value. The Vikings seem determined to give him a few carries a game, and that’s led to big plays. It’s a little concerning for Harvin owners that Donovan McNabb is so eager to look for Michael Jenkins on third downs and in the red zone. Jenkins has McNabb’s trust. … I still like David Nelson long term, but last week showed how he could have off weeks. Donald Jones and Brad Smith stole targets. This happens when you go four wide so often. Nelson only saw three targets. … It’s a good sign Stevie Johnson was back at practice early this week. His injury has clearly been bothering him. He should have scored on his biggest catch last week, but there was no explosion after he got the ball near the goal line and he was caught from behind.

A.J. Green is dirty. The throws Andy Dalton makes to him aren’t especially good. Green just makes terrific plays on the ball. A better throw from Dalton last week and Green could have scored a long touchdown. Dalton targeted him two other times in the end zone that didn’t work. Green is such a natural receiver. There isn’t a great comparison for him, but it’s hard not to think about Chris Henry when Green is leaping for passes. Henry was a big talent, but Green is at another level and his mental approach to the game has been unquestioned.

I’m not that worried about Mario Manningham long term. He’s keeping his starting job and the matchup is right this week. … I’m also sticking with Mike Williams in Tampa. The Bucs offense is disappointingly conservative, but there are a lot of reasons to believe Williams will still break out. … Jacoby Jones has done well in the past as a starter, but the Texans passing game was in better shape them. I don’t expect Matt Schaub to put up a ton of yards, even against Oakland. … We have been a little strong with the Denarius Moore hype. He’s going to be a fantastic player, but there are a lot of options for Jason Campbell to throw to and the Raiders will remain a run-first offense.


<!--RW-->Week 5 Tight Ends


<TABLE style="WIDTH: 100%"><TBODY><TR class=TableTopRed><TD>Rank</TD><TD>Player Name</TD><TD>Opponent</TD><TD>Notes</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>1</TD><TD>Jermichael Finley</TD><TD>at ATL</TD><TD>Probable(ankle)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>2</TD><TD>Jimmy Graham</TD><TD>at CAR</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>3</TD><TD>Rob Gronkowski</TD><TD>vs. NYJ</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>4</TD><TD>Owen Daniels</TD><TD>vs. OAK</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>5</TD><TD>Vernon Davis</TD><TD>vs. TB</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>6</TD><TD>Dustin Keller</TD><TD>at NE</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>7</TD><TD>Brandon Pettigrew</TD><TD>vs. CHI</TD><TD>Probable(shoulder)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>8</TD><TD>Greg Olsen</TD><TD>vs. NO</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>9</TD><TD>Kellen Winslow</TD><TD>at SF</TD><TD>Questionable(knee)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>10</TD><TD>Tony Gonzalez</TD><TD>vs. GB</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>11</TD><TD>Jermaine Gresham</TD><TD>at JAC</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>12</TD><TD>Dallas Clark</TD><TD>vs. KC</TD><TD>Questionable(foot)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>13</TD><TD>Aaron Hernandez</TD><TD>vs. NYJ</TD><TD>Sidelined(knee)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>14</TD><TD>Jared Cook</TD><TD>at PIT</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>15</TD><TD>Kevin Boss</TD><TD>at HOU</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>16</TD><TD>Marcedes Lewis</TD><TD>vs. CIN</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>17</TD><TD>Todd Heap</TD><TD>at MIN</TD><TD>Probable(ribs)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>18</TD><TD>Visanthe Shiancoe</TD><TD>vs. ARZ</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>19</TD><TD>Scott Chandler</TD><TD>vs. PHI</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>20</TD><TD>Randy McMichael</TD><TD>at DEN</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>21</TD><TD>Heath Miller</TD><TD>vs. TEN</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>22</TD><TD>Brent Celek</TD><TD>at BUF</TD><TD>Probable(illness)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>23</TD><TD>James Casey</TD><TD>vs. OAK</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>24</TD><TD>Zach Miller</TD><TD>at NYG</TD><TD>-</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>


TE Notes: On one hand, I want to tell you not to worry about Rob Gronkowski. On the other hand, he’s going to have more quiet weeks. That’s why I see Gronk Nation as someone more likely to finish around fifth at tight end rather than first. There will be some weeks he focuses on blocking. There will be some weeks the ball just goes elsewhere. … Kellen Winslow is still catching plenty of passes, but there is absolutely no after-catch ability left.

Owen Daniels should be Houston’s No.1 receiver while Andre Johnson is out. … Brandon Pettigrew should be a perfect zone buster against Chicago. … Folks have been selling Jermaine Gresham short. He has a great pair of hands and can get vertical on occasion. He can make the wildly athletic catch. Andy Dalton loves throwing to him; Gresham has a real chance to finish in the top ten this year and lead the Bengals in receptions. … Kudos to Greg Olsen, whose one-handed catch last week was one of the best meaningless touchdowns to win fantasy leagues and get a backdoor cover of all time. … Kevin Boss wouldn’t be a terrible pickup this week if Gresham is gone.


Week 5 Kickers


<TABLE style="WIDTH: 100%"><TBODY><TR class=TableTopRed><TD>Rank</TD><TD>Player Name</TD><TD>Opponent</TD><TD>Notes</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>1</TD><TD>Mason Crosby</TD><TD>at ATL</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>2</TD><TD>Matt Bryant</TD><TD>vs. GB</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>3</TD><TD>Sebastian Janikowski</TD><TD>at HOU</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>4</TD><TD>John Kasay</TD><TD>at CAR</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>5</TD><TD>Stephen Gostkowski</TD><TD>vs. NYJ</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>6</TD><TD>Jason Hanson</TD><TD>vs. CHI</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>7</TD><TD>Robbie Gould</TD><TD>at DET</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>8</TD><TD>Neil Rackers</TD><TD>vs. OAK</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>9</TD><TD>Jay Feely</TD><TD>at MIN</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>10</TD><TD>Ryan Longwell</TD><TD>vs. ARZ</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>11</TD><TD>Nick Novak</TD><TD>at DEN</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>12</TD><TD>Rob Bironas</TD><TD>at PIT</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>13</TD><TD>Rian Lindell</TD><TD>vs. PHI</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>14</TD><TD>Matt Prater</TD><TD>vs. SD</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>15</TD><TD>Nick Folk</TD><TD>at NE</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>16</TD><TD>David Akers</TD><TD>vs. TB</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>17</TD><TD>Lawrence Tynes</TD><TD>vs. SEA</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>18</TD><TD>Shaun Suisham</TD><TD>vs. TEN</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>19</TD><TD>Olindo Mare</TD><TD>vs. NO</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>20</TD><TD>Alex Henery</TD><TD>at BUF</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>21</TD><TD>Connor Barth</TD><TD>at SF</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>22</TD><TD>Adam Vinatieri</TD><TD>vs. KC</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>23</TD><TD>Josh Scobee</TD><TD>vs. CIN</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>24</TD><TD>Ryan Succop</TD><TD>at IND</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>25</TD><TD>Mike Nugent</TD><TD>at JAC</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>26</TD><TD>Steven Hauschka</TD><TD>at NYG</TD><TD>-</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

Week 5 Team Defense


<TABLE style="WIDTH: 100%"><TBODY><TR class=TableTopRed><TD>Rank</TD><TD>Player Name</TD><TD>Opponent</TD><TD>Notes</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>1</TD><TD>Lions Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. CHI</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>2</TD><TD>Chargers Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at DEN</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>3</TD><TD>Titans Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at PIT</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>4</TD><TD>Bengals Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at JAC</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>5</TD><TD>Steelers Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. TEN</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>6</TD><TD>Giants Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. SEA</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>7</TD><TD>Fortyniners Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. TB</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>8</TD><TD>Saints Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at CAR</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>9</TD><TD>Eagles Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at BUF</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>10</TD><TD>Packers Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at ATL</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>11</TD><TD>Bears Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at DET</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>12</TD><TD>Vikings Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. ARZ</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>13</TD><TD>Jets Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at NE</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>14</TD><TD>Texans Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. OAK</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>15</TD><TD>Patriots Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. NYJ</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>16</TD><TD>Chiefs Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at IND</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>17</TD><TD>Falcons Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. GB</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>18</TD><TD>Colts Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. KC</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>19</TD><TD>Buccaneers Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at SF</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>20</TD><TD>Cardinals Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at MIN</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>21</TD><TD>Bills Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. PHI</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>22</TD><TD>Jaguars Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. CIN</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>23</TD><TD>Raiders Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at HOU</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>24</TD><TD>Seahawks Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at NYG</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>25</TD><TD>Broncos Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. SD</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>26</TD><TD>Panthers Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. NO</TD><TD>-</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

 

[HacheMan]

Studs and Duds: Colts won't be able to stop Dwayne Bowe

The Green Bay Packers' visit to face the Atlanta Falcons should provide fireworks, and a pair of tight ends likely will continue to struggle.

Studs
•Matt Ryan, QB, Falcons: Green Bay's pass defense has allowed the second-most yards a game (336) and third-most touchdowns (nine). And the Atlanta defense is yielding more than 26 points a game. Look for another shootout between Ryan and Aaron Rodgers.

• INTERACTIVE: Chat with Roger Rotter today, noon ET

•Frank Gore, RB, San Francisco 49ers: After a slow start to the season, Gore rebounded with 139 total yards and a touchdown against the Philadelphia Eagles. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have a dreaded cross-country trip after a Monday night game.
•Chris Johnson, RB, Tennessee Titans: The Pittsburgh Steelers are giving up 4.8 yards a carry and will be without all-pro linebacker James Harrison. Johnson is striving to be the third running back to rush for at least 100 yards and a score against the Steelers' No. 22 run defense.
•Dwayne Bowe, WR, Kansas City Chiefs: Bowe is shooting for his third 100-yard receiving game and third consecutive outing with a score. The Indianapolis Colts' 20th-ranked pass defense has allowed the opponent's top receiver to average 103 yards and one touchdown in three of the last four games.
•Julio Jones, WR, Falcons: The rookie led Atlanta with 11 receptions and 127 yards against the Seattle Seahawks. Jones was targeted a whopping 17 times by Ryan in the victory and might be the favored target again.
Duds
•Matt Hasselbeck, QB, Titans: Coming off a three-touchdown performance at the Cleveland Browns, Hasselbeck is looking for his third 300-yard game and fourth game of multiple scores. But the Steelers' No. 1 pass defense has permitted an average of 158 yards a game and four touchdowns.
•DeAngelo Williams, RB, Carolina Panthers: Williams likely will need to double his average 9.3 carries a game if he is to notch his first 100-yard game of 2011. But the pass-happy Panthers figure to keep it in the air as they try to keep up with the New Orleans Saints.
•Willis McGahee, RB, Denver Broncos: The division rival San Diego Chargers held opponents to fewer than 100 rushing yards the last three weeks. The Chargers' Philip Rivers has owned the Broncos, throwing for 18 touchdowns vs. five interceptions while going 8-2 against them. The Broncos could be forced to abandon the run early.
•Marcedes Lewis, TE, Jacksonville Jaguars: Lewis is averaging 2.3 catches for 27 yards and has yet to score. The Cincinnati Bengals' third-ranked pass defense has given up three touchdowns.
•Zach Miller, TE, Seahawks: The New York Giants have surrendered three passing touchdowns, and Seattle's No. 28 pass offense has generated five scores. Miller is on pace for a less-than-stellar 32 receptions for 248 yards and no scores.
Sleepers
•Mark Sanchez, QB, New York Jets: He threw for two touchdowns in each of the first three games before his Week 4 fiasco at the Baltimore Ravens. Sanchez can bounce back against the New England Patriots' NFL-worst pass defense.
•Mark Ingram, RB, Saints: Carolina's run defense is second-to-last in the NFL. Ingram has averaged 44 rushing yards and has scored once. It's time for the rookie to break out.
•Stevan Ridley, RB, Patriots: The Jets' faltering run defense has allowed the most scores (six) and ranks 27th for yards (131). Ridley has averaged 8.2 yards a carry in limited work, and his role is growing.
•Jordy Nelson, WR, Packers: Atlanta's 24th-ranked pass defense allowed Rodgers to throw for 366 yards and three touchdowns in last season's playoff loss. Nelson's number could be similar to the eight catches, 79 yards and a score from that meeting.
•Jacoby Jones, WR, Houston Texans: With Andre Johnson out, Jones could emerge as the top target. When Johnson missed the final two weeks of last season, Jones responded well, snaring a total of 10 catches for 185 yards.

 

[HacheMan]

A day for atonement

By Matthew Berry
ESPN.com

Back when I was attending Syracuse University, there was a student stand-up comedy competition, and a guy by the name of Stephen Kanter told the following joke.

"So, I'm Jewish, but I'm thinking of becoming Catholic. Because it's the same guilt, just better food."


20 years later, I still remember that joke. Still makes me laugh. Maybe because I'm also Jewish and never got the appeal of gefilte fish (it's like fish-flavored paste, but lumpier), the joke resonated with me. Like anything else in life, there are good things and bad things about being Jewish.


But among the best -- other than getting to say things like "You know Scarlett Johansson, Bar Rafaeli, Elizabeth Banks and Mila Kunis? They play for us" -- is Yom Kippur, the Jewish Day of Atonement.


The website JewFAQ sums it up pretty well; "The name 'Yom Kippur' means "Day of Atonement," and that pretty much explains what the holiday is. It is a day set aside to "afflict the soul," to atone for the sins of the past year. … On Yom Kippur, the judgment entered in these books is sealed. This day is, essentially, your last appeal, your last chance to change the judgment, to demonstrate your repentance and make amends."


This year, it begins at sundown on Friday. I love the idea of Yom Kippur. I don't think the idea should be limited to Jewish folks. I do this column every year, and I'll keep doing it until the concept gets adopted by the rest of the world. On one day, you apologize and atone for everything you've done wrong in the past year, and it's all washed away. Forgotten. Fresh start. One-stop shopping, and you're all set for the year. I have a ton of stuff to atone for, but I'll probably be really bad tonight just to squeeze in a few more sins before the deadline.


I asked the gang on my Facebook page and on Twitter for input, and together we came up with a fairly definitive list of who needs to "demonstrate repentance and make amends" -- to football fans, fantasy players or humanity in general.


Mike Shanahan: You know what I think? I think that if I found him standing outside a burning building, he would tell me "Help, my cat is in there!" and I would run into the flames, save his cat, come back out, covered in ash, hand him the cat and he'd say "Actually, I meant my dog. My dog's in there. That's a stray." Hell hath no fury like a fantasy owner of a Shanahan running back.


Anyone who still thinks Mike Martz is an offensive genius. As Jeremy Lundblad of ESPN Stats & Information points out, when Jay Cutler throws more than 35 passes, Chicago is 2-12. When he throws 35 or fewer times, the Bears are 17-4.

<CITE>AP Photo/Joe Howell</CITE>Randy Moss attempted redemption with the Titans, but that didn't end well either.


Randy Moss. I'm still bitter. And @therealJakeTB is with me.


People who steal a parking space when you've clearly been waiting for it. Or people who drive the wrong way in a parking lot to beat you to a space. Or people who sit in their cars talking on the phone instead of leaving when the lot is crowded. Basically, I have a short fuse in parking lots.


The Colts' front office. If you didn't think Curtis Painter was the answer, why did you wait until three weeks before the season to sign Kerry Collins? Don't give me lockout, you've known for a while what you have in Painter. Whatever the question, Kerry Collins is not the answer.


Anyone who isn't watching "The League" on FX, the sitcom about a group of friends in a fantasy football league. The third season premieres tonight (Thursday) at 10:30 ET. It's adult humor, so make sure the kids and/or the easily offended are not near the TV, but if you enjoy laughing and fantasy football, I highly recommend it. Hilarious show.


Hamstrings. Specifically those owned by Miles Austin, Andre Johnson, Arian Foster and Rashard Mendenhall. If I've said it once, I've said it a million times, nothing good comes from hustling. Take your time. Mosey a bit, friend. Play another day.


People who call themselves "experts" in fantasy football. There's no such thing. You'll notice I never refer to myself that way; I'm an analyst. It's a game. Experts are for important things, such as saving lives, launching people into space and figuring out who wore it best at the Oscars.


Digital tattletales. Dude, when you see something I tweet, don't retweet it, copy somebody else on Twitter and try to start something. What are you, 6? If I wanted his/her Twitter handle in it, I would have put it in there. And Twitter is public, so people can see things if they want to look for them. And the same in reverse. Don't tweet stuff at me from others.


People who judge without any concept of what they are talking about. Until you've walked in their shoes…


From the gang at Twitter: Frank Gore (@runks29), the guy who says his team would be good if he didn't have injuries (@sbaileyRN), any mention of Brett Favre (@internetbullies), people who complain they "coulda had" someone in the draft (Yeah, we all could have had Steve Smith.) (@bailarge), rich people fighting with richer people #lockouts (@kingsrule5), the guy I share a cube wall with who loudly talks to his wife on the phone at his desk. Every. Single. Day. (@Beevans), and people who use their Twitter followers to write the first half of their columns every week. (@HogeJ). www.rapsports.com

Hmmm…


The people who, when you're sleeping on a plane, grab your headrest to lift themselves up, waking you in the process and paying no mind. Are you so out of shape you can't stand up without help? Are you so oblivious you can't apologize?


Questionable statuses for late games, LeBron James (gotta get it in now, might not have a NBA season), anyone discussing his or her golf game or vacation (I don't care), Internet trolls, people who drive too slowly in the left lane, people who try to convince me their religion/cause/politics is the right one, "That guy," the lack of a Chick-fil-A anywhere in Connecticut, Antonio Gates' foot, the middle seat, people who tell me on Twitter about a wrong call I've made (Trust me, when I blow a call, I'm well aware of it), most Yankees and Philly fans (many Yankees fans and Philly sports fans agree with me, incidentally), people who can't express themselves without using ALL CAPS and/or being vulgar, the guy who shows up at a draft without prep but then looks over at your sheet and steals a sleeper he's never heard of, flaky people and Rex Grossman (for what I know is coming).

<CITE>Doug Pensinger/Getty Images</CITE>I need to atone on multiple levelsg for that awful "say yes to Knowshon" joke in the preseason.


And, of course, the biggest person who needs to atone is … me. I was clearly wrong on Knowshon Moreno. I continue to hold out hope on Michael Vick and Antonio Gates, but that clearly might not work. For every call I got wrong so far this year and the ones that are coming (many soon after this intro!), for rehashing this column every year, for my lack of ability to turn the other cheek sometimes, for my rampant Lakers and Redskins homerism, for not speaking more clearly into the mike on the podcast, for any and all awkwardness on TV, for being egocentric, for being egocentric enough that I think it's OK that I am egocentric and that it has worked for me so far, which only makes me more ego-centric, for Beanie Wells last week (Hey, he was a game-time decision in a late game! I was thinking better safe than sorry!), for the fact that I have enough readers who don't get it that I have to do the stupid explanation for Love/Hate every week, for my thinking rookie wide receivers Julio Jones and A.J. Green would take awhile to catch on, for every time I say "oh by the way," "right" and "uh," plus all my other crutch phrases, and for failing on my promise to keep this (or any column) to fewer than 3,000 words.


Who else needs to repent? While you think on that, let's get to this week's "Love/Hate," which, as usual, comprises players I think will do better or worse than the rest of my fellow rankers do. Numbers in parentheses are my Wednesday ranks and the average rank of the other three rankers. As always, check my Friday ranks and watch "Fantasy Football Now" on Sunday for the final call on where I stand on every player.



Week 5 Players I Love




Michael Vick, QB, Eagles (my rank: 2, average rank from the other three rankers: 4): The Matthew Berry "Vick at No. 1" redemption tour continues this Sunday in Orchard Park, N.Y.; Who wants to tailgate?


Cam Newton, QB, Panthers (5, 7): Top five is my way of saying "Not a fluke, kids. Not even close." He can make all the throws, obviously they are not scared to chuck it in Carolina and -- as ESPN Stats & Info's Zach Jones points out -- only the Lions have had more passes from the shotgun than the Panthers. (Lions, 186; Panthers, 164; Bills, 145; Dolphins, 135.) Cam is obviously comfortable in the shotgun and, against the blitzing Saints, he will have enough time to throw quick slants to Steve Smith, underneath stuff to his tight ends and, of course, make the occasional run. Saints allow 17.5 points per game to opposing quarterbacks (ninth most) and, if you ignore last weekend against Blaine Gabbert, it goes up to 20 points per game.


Matt Ryan, QB, Falcons (8, 9): Sort of an obvious name given how bad the Packers pass defense has been this year, plus his well-known stats at home, but including him here because people think I always hate on him. I don't. A lot, sure. But not always. Packers will both score a lot and stop the run in this game, so Ryan will have to take to the air -- the way a Falcon does! (pause) Right. Bad puns on team names. Adding it to the "stuff to atone for" list. Got it.


Kevin Kolb, QB, Cardinals (12, 16): Well, we know Minnesota has to respect the run now. Ahem. A lot of talk about the pressure Jared Allen and Brian Robison will bring, but, when facing a blitz, Zach Jones once again tells us that Kolb completes 58.6 percent of his passes, has a 95.8 passer rating and has five touchdowns, so bring it on, I say, and bring your friends. Vikes CB Antoine Winfield missed practice Wednesday with a neck injury, and the St. Paul Pioneer Press is saying he will miss the game, further weakening a pass defense that gives up 17 points a game to opposing quarterbacks (tied for 11th most) and made Matt Cassel look usable last week.


Curtis Painter, QB, Colts (21, 25): OK, I'll say it. When he actually got time to throw on Monday night, I thought he looked all right. (ducking) They need to do a better job of protecting him (he was terrible when faced with pressure), but only the Bills (four) have fewer sacks this year than Kansas City's five. Given time, at home, he's a decent bye week fill-in in a deep league.
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<CITE>Matt Stamey/US Presswire</CITE>Let's be clear here: Darren Sproles took Reggie Bush's old job, but he didn't actually become Bush.


Darren Sproles, RB, Saints (11, 18): What am I missing here? Have my fellow rankers seen the scoring leaders? You know, the list where Sproles is the 10th-highest-scoring fantasy running back? And it's not as if it's all from one crazy game. He has been remarkably consistent, with games of 13, 11, 14 and 12 fantasy points. Last week, the 11th-highest-scoring running back scored 14 points. That's the area we are in this year, and Sproles leads New Orleans in receptions and is second in total yards, targets and total touches. Against the Panthers (fourth-most points allowed to opposing running backs), Sproles is a very safe start.


Isaac Redman, RB, Steelers (21, 24): Fun facts about Redman: Averaging 4.9 yards per carry this year. Has a gimpy quarterback the team need to keep upright, which can be accomplished by running the ball. Likely to get a start with Rashard Mendenhall banged up. (If Mendenhall starts, disregard this). Faces the Titans, who are a good defense but have given up 511 total yards and three touchdowns to opposing running backs in four weeks. Is available in 85 percent of leagues.


Mark Ingram, RB, Saints (17, 24): Fun with numbers: 13, 14, 11, 19. Those are Ingram's touches the past four weeks. The week with 11, he scored a touchdown. Carolina's run defense is still as bad as it was when I talked about it in the Sproles paragraph.


Dexter McCluster, WR/RB, Chiefs (32, 33): Bit of a gut call here, but, in a bye week, I kind of like him on the road at Indy. There's obvious big-play potential; only six teams have allowed more runs of 10-plus yards than Indy, and the Colts are also top 10 in rushes of 20-plus yards allowed. Averaging 5.9 yards per carry, he's gotten double-digit touches in the two games since Jamaal Charles went down, and, on the turf in Indy, I kinda like his chances to break one.


DeSean Jackson, WR, Eagles (8, 11): A defensive gem, this game will not be.


Julio Jones, WR, Falcons (14, 17): As seen in things I need to atone for! (Tied for ninth-most targets in the NFL and has a pretty good matchup.)


David Nelson, WR, Bills (26, 39): One bad week, but ultimately still believe in him, especially out of the slot to the middle of the field, where the Eagles are really vulnerable.


Pierre Garcon, WR, Colts (28, 33): Mentioned this on "Fantasy Football Now" this past weekend and again on Twitter before the "Monday Night Football" game, but since Curtis Painter took over as the Colts' QB, Reggie Wayne has gotten 23.1 percent of the targets compared with Garcon's 30.8 percent. Now, he still has bricks for hands and his big Monday night score was the result of blown coverage and poor tackling, but still. At home, against the Chiefs? In a bye week, you could do worse and probably have. Good motto to remember at closing time.


Titus Young, WR, Lions (39, 50): For deeper leagues or teams decimated by injuries and bye weeks, Young has gotten more and more involved in one of the best offenses in football. In the past three weeks combined, he has 12 receptions for 181 yards on 20 targets. I'm guessing the Bears will send a million guys to try to cover Calvin Johnson, so Young should see some single coverage he can exploit. And aren't we all looking for single coverage we can exploit?


Owen Daniels, TE, Texans (1, 6): The cries of agony were from Andre Johnson's owners. The muted and respectful squeals of joy were from Owen Daniels' owners.


Dallas Clark, TE, Colts (9, 13): The problem with Clark, other than the obvious, is that he's been staying in to block more. But, as I mentioned in the Painter bit, that won't be as necessary against KC, which also happens to give up the sixth-most fantasy points to opposing tight ends. And if Clark doesn't start producing, I'm gonna hit something. So there's that.


Tennessee Titans D/ST (3, 3): We're all on the Titans' D this week, going against that porous Steelers line that helps allow the fourth-most fantasy points to opposing D/ST. Tennessee is available in almost 75 percent of leagues, is the seventh-highest-scoring defense in fantasy and is averaging more than 11 points a game the past three weeks. What are you waiting for?


New York Giants D/ST (4, 3): Happiness is Tarvaris Jackson traveling east to face your defense. Available in 46 percent of leagues. I like the Titans and the Giants better than the highly drafted defenses of the Steelers or Jets this weekend.



Week 5 Players I Hate


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<CITE>Andy Lyons/Getty Images</CITE>Matt Schaub will be missing his top weapon for the next few weeks, and we'll be missing a big reason to start Schaub in our fantasy leagues.


Matt Schaub, QB, Texans (14, 10): I asked Zach Jones from ESPN Stats & Info to look up Schaub's career numbers without Andre Johnson. In three games last season (when Arian Foster was there), Schaub averaged 251.7 yards and had just four touchdowns in three games. In 2007, Johnson missed six games and Schaub was even worse, with just 217 passing yards per game and two touchdowns total, along with seven interceptions. That's a lot of math to tell you that, without Andre Johnson and with a healthy Arian Foster, I don't see Schaub putting up top-10 numbers the way the other rankers suggest.


Jay Cutler, QB, Bears (19, 17): What happens when the most sacked quarterback since 2009 meets Ndamukong Suh and Kyle Vanden Bosch? Not actually sure. I just know that you never want to cross the streams and that I don't want Cutler anywhere near my team.


Ben Roethlisberger, QB, Steelers (20, 16): According to the New York Life Protection Index, Big Ben has been sacked, hurried and knocked down 54 times in four games. That's a lot, kids. He's hurt; Mendenhall is banged up; the line is a mess; and the Titans have the No. 1 scoring defense in the NFL. I have Jay Cutler ranked ahead of him. What does that tell you?


Shonn Greene, RB, Jets (30, 20): Greene likes to play smashmouth football; too bad he's no good at it. According to ESPN Stats & Info's Paul Carr, Greene is averaging 2.2 yards per carry up the middle, which accounts for 26 of his 51 carries. Meanwhile, the Pats were able to limit the San Diego Chargers' backs to 2.9 yards up the middle in their only home game this season. In their three other games, the Chargers have averaged 4.4 yards up the middle, twice Greene's average. You do the math.


James Starks (25, 18) and Ryan Grant (28, 31), RBs, Packers: It's actually a great matchup. The Falcons are top 10 in fantasy points allowed to opposing running backs, and the Packers' offense is so explosive that at least one of these running backs will have a good game. I just have no idea who it will be. That's as honest as I can be. Starks was the better runner the first two games, Grant clearly better in Week 3. Starks was fine but nothing special as the lone back in Week 4, and Grant has returned to practice. Will they split carries? Will one be more effective than the other? Will Aaron Rodgers and/or John Kuhn vulture any more rushing touchdowns? I don't know. I could tell you I like Starks better, but that's a complete and total guess. So I'm putting them in my "hate" list because I just don't know how to interpret this situation accurately right now. And I'm sure one of them will go off (again, great matchup) and some of you will point to this as my "hating" them, but it's only because there's no clarity here. If some comes, I'll update my ranks Friday.


Jordy Nelson, WR, Packers (25, 15): Another one that could easily blow up in my face. Good matchup, great offense, he's been hot lately. But I have him outside my top 20 because there are so many weapons in Green Bay. For all the scoring the Packers did last week, Jermichael Finley wasn't involved, and I expect that to change this week against the Falcons. Nelson has had two good games. You didn't care about his lack of looks in Week 2 because he caught one pass for 84 yards and a score, but you can't count on something like that. So he's had two games when he's been a big part of the offense and two games when he hasn't. With both running backs healthy, along with Greg Jennings and Finley (not to mention Randall Cobb, James Jones and Donald Driver), I just have a hard time making him a must-start, given the other options available. He's a flex play.


Jacoby Jones, WR, Texans (37, 27): Burn me once, shame on you. Burn me every single season …


Deion Branch, WR, Patriots (40, 34): Seems to have disappeared, and the Jets' secondary is nothing to sneeze at. Or even hack cough at. And coughing up a hairball is entirely out of the question.


Jared Cook, TE, Titans (20, 13): As much as I like his skills, his touchdown in Week 4 -- on an 80-yard pass play with a lot of broken/missed tackles -- was a fluke and he has yet to have more than two receptions in any game. It's not a terrible matchup and James Harrison being out helps, of course, but until he's a more consistent part of the offense, I have a hard time starting him over the deep pool of other available tight ends.


Arizona Cardinals D/ST (21, 15): I don't care that it's the Vikings. This is a defense anyone can throw on. Anyone. Even you.


And that's all we have this week, kids. Wish I had a clever way to end this, but I don't. So I'll atone for that, too.

 

[HacheMan]

Flex rankings: Bye weeks decimate depth

Eric Karabell

I read the Conversation comments on the columns, blogs and other features produced by ESPN Fantasy, and when it comes to bye weeks, one of my favorite posts is, for example, "Why did you forget Ray Rice?" Of course, I've softened the tone a bit. It's all in good fun -- I think -- and it makes me smile, but allow me to remind you that Rice, Steven Jackson, Dez Bryant, Brandon Marshall and "name your favorite Washington Redskins running back" are missing from the list below … because it's their bye week.


Now, you would think that makes lineup decisions more difficult because fantasy owners have fewer choices, but I choose a different viewpoint: If you're a smart fantasy owner, you can overcome this. This separates the owners simply riding out their strong drafts from those making weekly moves, whether it's trades or free-agent pickups. Many of us will see our opponents foolishly using Felix Jones this week, and we're under no obligation to remind them he's off; just enjoy the zero you get from him. And you'd better win! So here we go, the Week 5 flex rankings. Let's just say that for the next month the depth isn't as great to choose from, but you can thrive anyway. Enjoy the ride.

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<CITE>John Rieger/US Presswire</CITE>Wow, a Bills running back (Fred Jackson) ranks third in this week's flex rankings. Whodathunkit?!



1. Arian Foster, RB, Texans: Didn't take long for him to get back on top.
2. Darren McFadden, RB, Raiders
3. Fred Jackson, RB, Bills: Seems a bit high, but then again, I watch the Eagles try to stop the run each week, and it's not pretty.
4. LeSean McCoy, RB, Eagles: I'm assuming he gets at least 20 touches this week.
5. Calvin Johnson, WR, Lions: Wouldn't it be something if he just kept on this pace and scored 32 touchdowns? Best. Season. Ever.
6. Adrian Peterson, RB, Vikings: Give him the ball, please!
7. Wes Welker, WR, Patriots: Keep giving him the ball, please!
8. Ryan Mathews, RB, Chargers
9. Vincent Jackson, WR, Chargers: Looks like he can play through injury, which is nice. Wish the team's tight end could.
10. Chris Johnson, RB, Titans: Happy now? He's gonna be fine.
11. Matt Forte, RB, Bears: We begged for a 100-yard game from him, but perhaps Forte misheard us and thought we said 200.
12. Greg Jennings, WR, Packers
13. Steve Smith, WR, Panthers
14. Beanie Wells, RB, Cardinals: Still not 100 percent, which concerns me some.
15. Roddy White, WR, Falcons: The story isn't the rookie on the other side of the field but rather White's dropped passes.
16. Michael Turner, RB, Falcons
17. Larry Fitzgerald, WR, Cardinals
18. Frank Gore, RB, 49ers: Looked good last week, but hey, Philly's defense makes every running back look healthy.
19. Maurice Jones-Drew, RB, Jaguars: You'd think the Jags would lean on him a bit more.
20. DeSean Jackson, WR, Eagles
21. Dwayne Bowe, WR, Chiefs: Certainly can't complain about his recent production.
22. Ahmad Bradshaw, RB, Giants
23. Jeremy Maclin, WR, Eagles
24. Cedric Benson, RB, Bengals: The looming suspension talk has become a bit annoying. I mean, what are they waiting for? The fantasy playoffs? Perhaps 2013?
25. Mike Wallace, WR, Steelers
26. Jahvid Best, RB, Lions
27. Hakeem Nicks, WR, Giants
28. Steve Johnson, WR, Bills: Can't say Nnamdi scares me anymore, either.
29. BenJarvus Green-Ellis, RB, Patriots: Still the touchdown guy.
30. Jimmy Graham, TE, Saints: Fantasy's top tight end? Love it!
31. Santonio Holmes, WR, Jets: Not posting great numbers even though his quarterback throws, like, 75 times per game.
32. Percy Harvin, WR, Vikings: Now his slow start makes perfect sense. Just bring in the rookie already!
33. James Starks, RB, Packers: Gotta say I'm disappointed in his Week 4 performance, especially because his competition didn't even play.
34. Joseph Addai, RB, Colts
35. Jermichael Finley, TE, Packers: Guess he can't score fantasy points when his team scores 49. No concerns here, though.
36. A.J. Green, WR, Bengals
37. Jordy Nelson, WR, Packers: Has scored only six fewer fantasy points than teammate Greg Jennings.
38. Brandon Lloyd, WR, Broncos
39. Rob Gronkowski, TE, Patriots
40. Shonn Greene, RB, Jets: The Jets say they'll run more, but that doesn't mean Greene will score more fantasy points. Still, I gave him a better rank this week. Guess I'm a glutton for punishment.
41. Darren Sproles, RB, Saints
42. Julio Jones, WR, Falcons
43. Willis McGahee, RB, Broncos: Stop assuming you'll need to cut him in a few weeks. He's doing well.
44. Mike Tolbert, RB, Chargers
45. Mark Ingram, RB, Saints
46. Mike Williams, WR, Buccaneers: At least he saw a decent number of targets in the Monday-nighter.
47. Sidney Rice, WR, Seahawks: Looks like he can take over the game at times.

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<CITE>Kim Klement/US Presswire</CITE>LeGarrette Blount versus 49ers defense. Advantage: Niners D.


48. LeGarrette Blount, RB, Buccaneers: Awful matchup this week, perhaps the worst he'll see. And yes, I'm buying the San Francisco run defense.
49. Nate Washington, WR, Titans
50. DeAngelo Williams, RB, Panthers
51. Marques Colston, WR, Saints: Worth using, but not a definite fantasy starter.
52. Rashard Mendenhall, RB, Steelers: Watch for updates here, but even if he plays, this isn't a good matchup.
53. Vernon Davis, TE, 49ers
54. Johnny Knox, WR, Bears
55. Owen Daniels, TE, Texans
56. Reggie Wayne, WR, Colts: What a shame.
57. Marshawn Lynch, RB, Seahawks
58. Robert Meachem, WR, Saints
59. Eric Decker, WR, Broncos: Top 20 among wide receivers is looming here.
60. Jonathan Stewart, RB, Panthers
61. Jacoby Jones, WR, Texans: Bothered by a sore knee and not practicing much, and boy, did that injury pop up at the wrong time (Andre Johnson is out).
62. Isaac Redman, RB, Steelers: Probably getting a bit overrated this week. The Steelers' O-line is still struggling.
63. Tony Gonzalez, TE, Falcons
64. Mike Thomas, WR, Jaguars
65. Plaxico Burress, WR, Jets
66. Stevan Ridley, RB, Patriots: Like Redman, I think people are a bit too happy about him, too.
67. Deion Branch, WR, Patriots
68. Thomas Jones, RB, Chiefs
69. Mario Manningham, WR, Giants: Claims he's still starting, and the talent is obviously there, but I downgraded him.
70. Brandon Jacobs, RB, Giants
71. Titus Young, WR, Lions: Interesting play in deep leagues; the Bears haven't controlled opposing quarterbacks, and Young is moving up the team's hierarchy.
72. Lance Moore, WR, Saints
73. David Nelson, WR, Bills
74. LaDainian Tomlinson, RB, Jets
75. Nate Burleson, WR, Lions
76. Victor Cruz, WR, Giants: Keep him around, just in case.
77. Ben Tate, RB, Texans: Same here. Foster could get hurt again.
78. Malcom Floyd, WR, Chargers: Figured he'd see more chances with Gates out, but that hasn't happened yet.
79. Kevin Walter, WR, Texans: He'll get more targets, but he's still not a star.
80. Dustin Keller, TE, Jets
81. Denarius Moore, WR, Raiders: This passing offense might really test fantasy owners' patience with its depth.
82. Knowshon Moreno, RB, Broncos
83. Pierre Garcon, WR, Colts: Two catches, two touchdowns, but he still has two below-average quarterbacks throwing to him.
84. Ryan Grant, RB, Packers
85. Michael Bush, RB, Raiders
86. Dexter McCluster, RB/WR, Chiefs
87. Michael Crabtree, WR, 49ers
88. Jacoby Ford, WR, Raiders: I still see nice things in his future.
89. Jerome Simpson, WR, Bengals: Same here. He has the ability.
90. C.J. Spiller, RB, Bills
91. Pierre Thomas, RB, Saints: Barely ownable at this point.
92. Antonio Brown, WR, Steelers: In watching the Steelers play, it seems so many of Brown's targets go awry.
93. Danny Woodhead, RB, Patriots
94. Austin Collie, WR, Colts
95. Kendall Hunter, RB, 49ers
96. Bernard Scott, RB, Bengals: Probably the most overrated reserve running back, as we all wait for him to play. Can he possibly reach expectations?
97. Devery Henderson, WR, Saints
98. Delone Carter, RB, Colts
99. Early Doucet, WR, Cardinals
100. Javon Ringer, RB, Titans

Best of the rest: Darrius Heyward-Bey, WR, Raiders; Kellen Winslow, TE, Buccaneers; Marion Barber, RB, Bears; John Kuhn, RB, Packers; Deji Karim, RB, Jaguars; Keiland Williams, RB, Lions; Jacquizz Rodgers, RB, Falcons.

 

[HacheMan]

Cam Newton poised for greatness

By Ken Daube
Special to ESPN.com

The more you look at the statistics, the more you will be convinced: Cam Newton will be an elite quarterback in this league for a long, long time. Consider these statistics, courtesy of ESPN Stats & Information:
Only eight NFL quarterbacks have completion percentages of at least 50 percent on passes that travel farther than 20 yards in the air. The other seven average fewer than seven of such completions each. Newton has 15 for 523 yards. That's 169 more yards than any other quarterback has amassed on similar throws.
Worried about how Newton performs against the blitz because he's a rookie? Only six NFL quarterbacks have attempted 25 or more passes when a defensive back is blitzing: Newton, Eli Manning, Michael Vick, Tony Romo, Sam Bradford and Jay Cutler. Newton owns both the highest completion rate (68 percent) among those quarterbacks in that situation and the highest NFL passer rating (137.5) as well.
When the Panthers are going to run the ball inside their opponent's 10-yard line, they turn to Newton. Newton has had 10 such carries. If you are wondering about how much the Carolina Panthers' running backs are used in those situations, the numbers are surprising. Jonathan Stewart has only two chances, and DeAngelo Williams' next carry inside the opponent's 10-yard line this season will be his first.
The one area where Newton is statistically the weakest, according to his Total QBR (27.7), is out of the shotgun. In 114 passing attempts from the shotgun formation, Newton has just three touchdowns versus four interceptions and five sacks. That's ironic because his 114 attempts from the shotgun are second in the league (Stafford), and those attempts have resulted in 921 of his 1,386 passing yards.
On target

Receiving yardage is variable because so much of it is dependent on where the quarterback elects to throw the ball. The variations in the number of times a player is targeted by his quarterback may greatly alter a player's value. It's important to look at the underlying target metric on a weekly basis to determine which stud performances were flukes and which dud performances can be written off to a bad day.
With that in mind, the table below not only lists players who are averaging seven targets a game but also provides the standard deviation of the game numbers. Players with a low deviation have a similar number of targets each game, while players with larger deviations have larger swings in the number of targets seen on a game-to-game basis.
Season Leaders, Targets Per Game

<TABLE><THEAD><TR><TH></TH><TH>Total Targets </TH><TH>Avg. </TH><TH>Std. Dev. </TH></TR><TBODY><TR class=last><TD>Wes Welker, NE </TD><TD>57 </TD><TD>14.3 </TD><TD>4.0 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Miles Austin, Dal </TD><TD>24 </TD><TD>12.0 </TD><TD>4.2 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Roddy White, Atl </TD><TD>45 </TD><TD>11.3 </TD><TD>5.4 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Jason Witten, Dal </TD><TD>42 </TD><TD>10.5 </TD><TD>2.4 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Calvin Johnson, Det </TD><TD>41 </TD><TD>10.3 </TD><TD>2.5 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Mike Thomas, Jac </TD><TD>41 </TD><TD>10.3 </TD><TD>1.5 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Steve Smith, Car </TD><TD>41 </TD><TD>10.3 </TD><TD>2.5 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Reggie Wayne, Ind </TD><TD>40 </TD><TD>10.0 </TD><TD>2.4 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Brandon Marshall, Mia </TD><TD>39 </TD><TD>9.8 </TD><TD>2.8 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Hakeem Nicks, NYG </TD><TD>38 </TD><TD>9.5 </TD><TD>3.9 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Julio Jones, Atl </TD><TD>38 </TD><TD>9.5 </TD><TD>5.1 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Brandon Lloyd, Den </TD><TD>28 </TD><TD>9.3 </TD><TD>2.1 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Andre Johnson, Hou </TD><TD>37 </TD><TD>9.3 </TD><TD>3.1 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Eric Decker, Den </TD><TD>37 </TD><TD>9.3 </TD><TD>2.5 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Aaron Hernandez, NE </TD><TD>18 </TD><TD>9.0 </TD><TD>1.4 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Jeremy Maclin, Phi </TD><TD>36 </TD><TD>9.0 </TD><TD>5.2 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Jimmy Graham, NO </TD><TD>36 </TD><TD>9.0 </TD><TD>3.4 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Steve Johnson, Buf </TD><TD>36 </TD><TD>9.0 </TD><TD>3.8 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Darren Sproles, NO </TD><TD>35 </TD><TD>8.8 </TD><TD>1.3 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Larry Fitzgerald, Ari </TD><TD>35 </TD><TD>8.8 </TD><TD>1.7 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Santana Moss, Was </TD><TD>35 </TD><TD>8.8 </TD><TD>1.0 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Kenny Britt, Ten </TD><TD>26 </TD><TD>8.7 </TD><TD>5.1 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>A.J. Green, Cin </TD><TD>33 </TD><TD>8.3 </TD><TD>4.6 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Antonio Brown, Pit </TD><TD>33 </TD><TD>8.3 </TD><TD>1.7 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Greg Jennings, GB </TD><TD>33 </TD><TD>8.3 </TD><TD>1.3 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Matt Forte, Chi </TD><TD>33 </TD><TD>8.3 </TD><TD>4.0 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Tony Gonzalez, Atl </TD><TD>33 </TD><TD>8.3 </TD><TD>1.0 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Ed Dickson, Bal </TD><TD>32 </TD><TD>8.0 </TD><TD>3.2 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Sidney Rice, Sea </TD><TD>16 </TD><TD>8.0 </TD><TD>2.8 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Brandon Pettigrew, Det </TD><TD>31 </TD><TD>7.8 </TD><TD>4.3 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Dustin Keller, NYJ </TD><TD>31 </TD><TD>7.8 </TD><TD>1.3 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Dwayne Bowe, KC </TD><TD>31 </TD><TD>7.8 </TD><TD>1.3 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Mike Tolbert, SD </TD><TD>31 </TD><TD>7.8 </TD><TD>1.9 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Mike Wallace, Pit </TD><TD>31 </TD><TD>7.8 </TD><TD>3.0 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Nate Washington, Ten </TD><TD>31 </TD><TD>7.8 </TD><TD>3.0 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Danario Alexander, StL </TD><TD>23 </TD><TD>7.7 </TD><TD>0.6 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Anquan Boldin, Bal </TD><TD>30 </TD><TD>7.5 </TD><TD>4.9 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Benjamin Watson, Cle </TD><TD>30 </TD><TD>7.5 </TD><TD>2.6 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>David Nelson, Buf </TD><TD>30 </TD><TD>7.5 </TD><TD>4.2 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>DeSean Jackson, Phi </TD><TD>30 </TD><TD>7.5 </TD><TD>3.9 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Laurent Robinson, Dal </TD><TD>15 </TD><TD>7.5 </TD><TD>3.5 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Mike Williams, TB </TD><TD>30 </TD><TD>7.5 </TD><TD>2.5 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Vincent Jackson, SD </TD><TD>30 </TD><TD>7.5 </TD><TD>5.4 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Donald Jones, Buf </TD><TD>29 </TD><TD>7.3 </TD><TD>2.2 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Pierre Garcon, Ind </TD><TD>29 </TD><TD>7.3 </TD><TD>2.2 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Antonio Gates, SD </TD><TD>14 </TD><TD>7.0 </TD><TD>8.5 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Earnest Graham, TB </TD><TD>28 </TD><TD>7.0 </TD><TD>1.8 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Jahvid Best, Det </TD><TD>28 </TD><TD>7.0 </TD><TD>1.4 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Jermaine Gresham, Cin </TD><TD>28 </TD><TD>7.0 </TD><TD>1.4 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Mohamed Massaquoi, Cle </TD><TD>28 </TD><TD>7.0 </TD><TD>1.4 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Santonio Holmes, NYJ </TD><TD>28 </TD><TD>7.0 </TD><TD>4.8 </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

General observations from Week 4 games:
Julio Jones, Atlanta Falcons (17 targets, 11 receptions, 127 yards): In last week's observation about Jones, he was called a starter in all three-receiver leagues. Forget that. Start him in any league. www.rapsports.com
Jimmy Graham, New Orleans Saints (14 targets, 10 receptions, 132 yards): You'd probably have to pry Graham from the cold, dead hands of whoever owns him in your league, but if you own Antonio Gates, it's probably worth it to offer Gates for Graham. The chances of that getting accepted is probably around 10 percent, which speaks both to how good Graham has been and how scary Gates' injury is.
Legedu Naanee, Carolina Panthers (11 targets, 4 receptions, 27 yards): Don't get excited about Naanee's 11 targets, as he caught just 36 percent of the passes thrown his way. Of course, that was a marked improvement from the 29 percent of passes that he caught going into this game. With a season average below 33 percent, Naanee shouldn't be a blip on the fantasy radar.
Victor Cruz, New York Giants (9 targets, 6 receptions, 98 yards): Until Mario Manningham can show that he's healthy, Cruz will get enough looks to be a viable starter in deep leagues. If you own Manningham or even Hakeem Nicks, it's probably wise to roster Cruz.
Tony Gonzalez, Atlanta Falcons (9 targets, 7 receptions, 56 yards): If you still believe that Gonzalez can't be a top-five tight end, you aren't paying attention. The fewest number of targets that Gonzalez has received in a game this year is seven, and he already has four scores. It's safe to expect an average performance of five catches for 50 yards from here on out, and don't be surprised if he hauls in eight more touchdowns.
Danario Alexander, St. Louis Rams (8 targets, 3 receptions, 46 yards): Alexander's value is tied to Danny Amendola. If Amendola can return from his injury, Alexander can be dropped. If Amendola winds up on the injured reserve list, Alexander will become a viable No. 4 receiver.
Jahvid Best, Detroit Lions (8 targets, 2 receptions, 23 yards): Having six disconnects on running back targets in one game is really odd. A review of the game tape found that only one of these six targets was a non-high-percentage route (crossing route). All other attempts were screens, short passes or passes to the flat. Keep an eye on Best's receiving opportunities, because if he can't get in sync with Matthew Stafford, Best's value will be negatively affected.
Greg Little, Cleveland Browns (8 targets, 6 receptions, 57 yards): If Colt McCoy winds up being a serviceable fantasy quarterback, Little will be worth owning and OK to use as a spot starter. Unfortunately, by the time you'll feel comfortable plugging him into your lineup, most of the NFL bye weeks will have passed.
Big plays, up close

Ten NFL players totaled three or more rushes that gained 10 or more yards each: Matt Forte (6), Frank Gore (4), Willis McGahee (4), Stevan Ridley (4), Cedric Benson (3), LeGarrette Blount (3), Percy Harvin (3), Darren Sproles (3), Ryan Torain (3) and Michael Vick (3).
Ridley's appearance on this list should concern owners of BenJarvus Green-Ellis, as the Law Firm has only five such carries in the New England Patriots' first four games. Ridley looked impressive during the preseason and is showing a similar burst now.
How good is Matt Forte? Among all running backs, his 26 receptions are tied for first, his 310 receiving yards lead the league and he sits in seventh in rushing yardage. If he can find the end zone more frequently, he'll become a top-three fantasy back.
Eight NFL players were given three or more rushes inside their opponent's 10-yard line: Beanie Wells (5), Green-Ellis (4), Michael Bush (3), Lex Hilliard (3), Cam Newton (3), Adrian Peterson (3), Mike Tolbert (3) and Michael Turner (3).
Of that bunch, only Peterson failed to score from that range. Of course, there's no reason to worry, as entering this week, Peterson had scored on 50 percent of such carries this season (three of six).

 

[HacheMan]

Better Late Than Never

The NFL has become a passing league.

This is probably the least controversial statement you could make about the sport in 2011.

With 25 percent of the season in the books, 15 quarterbacks are on pace to throw for over 4,000 yards, including rookie Cam Newton and magazine model Mark Sanchez.

In 2010, only five players reached such lofty passing heights. In 2001? Two. (Editor’s note: In 2001, Kurt Warner passed for 4,830 yards, 699 more than anybody else. Only three players came within 1,000 yards of him. One of them was Aaron Brooks.)

So with teams increasingly reliant on the pass, it’s obviously not surprising the importance placed on the running game has waned.

If we didn’t know better, it would seem some teams put as much effort into finding a feature runner as they do a kicker.

Last year’s Super Bowl winner went with a sixth-round rookie out of the University of Buffalo, while fantasy’s most dynamic back was an undrafted free agent.

With the mentality being you’re just as likely to find a game-changing back on the scrap heap than in the green room at Radio City Music Hall, teams have shied away from making running backs the centerpieces of their drafts.

That’s just one of the reasons the early career struggles of Beanie Wells and Ryan Mathews were so magnified. With executing the pass and stopping the pass now the two most important keys to success for any NFL team, if you decide to use a first-round pick on a runner, they better be the next Chris Johnson.

Wells was far from it in 2009, while Mathews was even further in 2010.

Beanie was more disappointing in 2010 than he was as a rookie, dampening expectations for his 2011 to the point that he was just one spot ahead of Owen Daniels by average draft position this summer, and eight spots behind Marshawn Lynch.

Fantasy players were nearly equally unenthused about Mathews, who despite ending 2010 on a strong note was locked into a time-share with Mike Tolbert.

Flash forward four weeks, and where there was once two towering disappointments are now players are the verge of RB1 status.

After rushing for over 90 yards in both Weeks 1 and 2 before missing Week 3 with a hamstring ailment, Wells had his long overdue breakout in Week 4, shredding the Giants for 138 yards and a trio of scores.

Mathews’ arrival didn’t come at any moment, but through a month of solid performances. San Diego’s would-be backup went for over 100 yards from scrimmage in each of the Bolts’ first four games, averaging 4.7 yards on 61 carries while Tolbert wheezed out an average of 2.6 yards on his 31 totes.

Mathews’ play has been so impressive that HC Norv Turner was confident enough to announce Wednesday he’d like his second-year back to receive 24-to-25 carries a game going forward.

Twenty carries would likely be enough to establish Mathews as a clear-cut RB1. Twenty five? You could start bandying about the term “elite.”

Whether or not Mathews will actually see that many carries is up for debate. It also remains to be seen if either Wells or Mathews, who both have checked injury histories, will be able to stay healthy.

But with some of fantasy’s old guard RB1s beginning to fade — most notably Steven Jackson and Frank Gore — you can’t say no one is looking to step up and take their place.

If you snagged either in the fifth or sixth round of your draft, you could be well on your way to a title.


Check out Gregg Rosenthal's fantasy football report from Wednesday's NBC Sports Talk on Versus, where he takes a closer look at Beanie and the Panthers RB situation.

NEWS OF THE DAY #2 Wells and Mathews are the new guard. Terrell Owens is the polar opposite. That’s not stopping the 38-year-old free agent from trying to remain relevant, however.

Just six months removed from tearing his left ACL, Owens announced Wednesday he expects to be ready to return by November. That would be an amazing feat for any athlete. For a man with 219 NFL games under his belt? It would be downright super human.

But for T.O., proving he’s healthy would be only half the battle. Convincing teams he’s worth the headache would be the other.

Assuming Owens is ready to return by November — an enormous assumption — would anybody be willing to take on a player with more baggage than Tiger Woods and Charlie Sheen combined?

Considering the fact the NFL is currently a league where Mike Thomas, Nate Washington and Mike Sims-Walker all have the title “No. 1 receiver,” the answer is probably yes.

You could point to the fact that fellow mercurial superstar wideout Randy Moss is currently unemployed as evidence that Owens will be greeted by limited to no interest when he begins to peddle his wares in earnest later this month, but that would be to ignore one thing: unlike T.O., Moss has shame. Through back channels, Moss has made it abundantly clear he’d be willing to play for only a handful of teams. T.O.? If you offer the contract, he’ll sign it as long as somebody else isn’t offering more.

On the surface, it may seem safe to say we’ve seen the last of T.O. In reality, we almost certainly have not.

NEWS OF THE DAY #3
On the opposite end of the spectrum from T.O. and Moss is Andre Johnson, a superstar still in his prime who has always kept his mouth shut.

Reports trickled out Wednesday that Johnson has undergone surgery on his ailing hamstring, and will likely remain out through at least Week 7.

Awful news for those who made Johnson a first-round pick, but still better than things looked like they’d be when Johnson crumpled to the ground untouched on Sunday.

Obviously, you aren’t going to find a suitable substitute for Johnson on the waiver wire, but where you really won’t find it is on his own team. Kevin Walter and Jacoby Jones will both see increased looks in his absence, but nothing in their respective histories suggest they will be able to do anything with them.

Look elsewhere for your fill-in, and cross your fingers that Johnson is a quick healer.

INJURY QUICK SLANTS
Danny Amendola (triceps) found out on Wednesday his 2011 season is over. Left in his wake in St. Louis are raw rookies Austin Pettis and Greg Salas, pedestrian veterans Brandon Gibson and Mike Sims-Walker and mysterious sophomore Danario Alexander. Alexander and Pettis offer the most upside. … Vincent Jackson’s “leg” injury has been revealed to be a hamstring ailment. After doing next to nothing in the second half of San Diego’s Week 4 win over the Dolphins after pulling up lame, V-Jax is beginning to look like a dubious play for Week 5. … While Jackson is trending down, Marques Colston is trending up. Limited to just 20 snaps in his return last week, Colston is expected to be in for a full-time role in Week 5. … Stevie Johnson (groin) practiced on Wednesday for the first time in two weeks yesterday, and says he feels as good as he has since Week 2. That’s good news with the Bills set to take on (albeit, a struggling) Nnamdi Asomugha and company in Week 5.