Fantasy Football News 2011/2012

HacheMan · Nov 2, 2011

Ranks reax: Cowboys' O will bounce back

Eric Karabell

Fantasy owners should never carry a grudge with certain players based on one really bad game. The Dallas Cowboys are indeed coming off an ugly blowout loss to a division opponent Sunday night, but check out the next five opponents: the Seattle Seahawks, Buffalo Bills, Washington Redskins, Miami Dolphins and Arizona Cardinals. Wow, that's very favorable. I don't see any defensive juggernauts there, which is why there's no better time to trade for Cowboys wide receivers Dez Bryant and Miles Austin.

I ranked Tony Romo's top receiving options 10th and 11th for this week's home game against a Seahawks secondary that hardly inspires fear to anyone except Seahawks fans. Yes, for some reason Romo didn't target his top guys much against the Philadelphia Eagles -- each of them had to settle for three receptions -- but I'd hardly call this the team's plan moving forward. Plus, when cameras picked up Bryant and Austin complaining to others on the sideline late in the game, it was a sure harbinger to me that better things are to come.

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<CITE>Matthew Emmons/US Presswire</CITE>Miles Austin and Dez Bryant still make for a formidable fantasy duo, regardless of what last week's stats suggest.

We're in Week 9, and we have a far better idea than in early September which defenses are legit and which aren't. The Seahawks' D isn't notably bad, not like the St. Louis Rams' defense, which allowed DeMarco Murray to embarrass it for 253 rushing yards in Week 7, and the Seahawks have actually done a decent job against quarterbacks this season, ranking in the top 10 for fewest fantasy points allowed. But look at the quarterbacks they've faced: Only Eli Manning and Ben Roethlisberger could be considered top-10 options. That's what I would call a misleading stat. Romo is the best fantasy quarterback the Seahawks will face until Michael Vick in Week 13.
I'm sticking with Romo, Jason Witten, Bryant and Austin not only this week, but for good. Kudos to the Eagles, a previously porous defense, for figuring things out after their bye week, but the Cowboys are about to fatten up statistically, and fantasy owners should enjoy it. Speaking of the NFC East: On the other side of the schedule spectrum are the New York Giants. I love Eli Manning and Hakeem Nicks against the New England Patriots on Sunday, and I ranked Mario Manningham, Victor Cruz and tight end Jake Ballard well. The Patriots have the third-easiest D for opposing quarterbacks to accrue fantasy points against, with only Mark Sanchez of the New York Jets failing to top 300 passing yards against them. Manning has thrown an interception in only one of his past five games, and he's well on his way to his third consecutive 4,000-yard passing season. Only three other quarterbacks can extend their streak to three years. It's not outrageous to rely on all three Giants wide receivers, and Ballard has been a top-10 tight end the past month. The Giants have a tough real-life schedule ahead, with the Patriots, San Francisco 49ers, Eagles, New Orleans Saints, Green Bay Packers and later the Cowboys twice and Jets once, but at least a few of those teams can be thrown against.

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<CITE>AP Photo/Gary Wiepert</CITE>Ryan Fitzpatrick's season stats are padded by a big first three games.

And speaking of the AFC East: I realize Bills quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick has many fantasy fans, but the numbers show this is an average quarterback hardly playing his best football. Fitzpatrick's schedule features the Jets twice this month, beginning Sunday. I'd try to avoid Fitzpatrick and wide receiver Steve Johnson, if possible. Fitzpatrick last topped 14 fantasy points in Week 3, and he has more turnovers than touchdown passes in that span. People point to his season QBR as evidence he's elite -- he's fifth in the league using that metric -- but his QBR is just 58.3 since Week 4. Johnson has similarly sputtered since Week 3. He did perform better than most last season against Jets cornerback Darrelle Revis, but I'd call it a poor time to invest in the Bills' passing game. Do so in December, as this team closes with the Dolphins, Denver Broncos and Patriots.

Infirmary ward:</B> We'll be updating the staff rankings Friday, and perhaps by then we'll have a better idea whether Darren McFadden, Andre Johnson and a host of other top fantasy options will be active. For now, I've chosen to leave McFadden and Johnson out of the rankings, as I don't expect them to play. McFadden (sprained foot) has not been practicing, and just because the Oakland Raiders come off a bye week doesn't suddenly heal things. I hope McFadden does play, of course, because the matchup against the Broncos is tantalizing, but for now I have more-than-worthy backup Michael Bush at No. 16 and McFadden out. Johnson and his balky hamstring could be a game-time decision Sunday. This just in: Fantasy owners don't like game-time decisions. As for other injuries to watch, some might still be relying on Cardinals quarterback Kevin Kolb, who has a potentially nice home matchup against the Rams, but Kolb's turf toe could keep him out. He'd be barely a top-20 quarterback for me regardless. All the fantasy rankers have Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back LeGarrette Blount at No. 12, and we each left San Diego Chargers injury risk Ryan Mathews (groin) out. Mike Tolbert is expected to play, but I ranked Jacob Hester just in case. San Diego isn't scoring much on average defenses, and now it gets Aaron Rodgers and the champs. Philip Rivers is the No. 16 quarterback for the season. This is not the best week to expect big numbers.

HacheMan · Nov 3, 2011

More Than A Vulture

The vulture.

Ugly, lazy, cunning instead of clever — it’s nature’s most shameless animal, and also one of its most reviled.

The same is, of course, true in fantasy football. Vultures swoop in and reap the benefits of somebody else’s hard work.

In 2011, few have been better at it than Michael Bush. While Darren McFadden was busy piling up 610 yards on the ground through his first six games, Bush loitered on the sideline, occasionally checking in en route to running for 138 yards.

But despite rushing for 77 percent fewer yards than McFadden, Bush was able to score nearly as many touchdowns, reaching the end zone three times to DMC’s four.

Bush’s combined distance on his three scores? Three yards.

Three touchdowns over the course of six weeks could easily be the difference between making or not making the fantasy playoffs. Quite a sad story for McFadden owners.

However, though it’s undeniable Bush has proven to be one of the leauge’s most infuriating vultures, it is not a distinction he’s earned by choice, or even merit. You see, Bush is actually a pretty decent runner, and could be a starter on many other teams. The NFL is the league, after all, where Willis McGahee, Joseph Addai and Marshawn Lynch all currently own starting jobs. But thanks in large part to McFadden’s all-world talent, Bush has been forced to toil as a backup the past four seasons.

What he’s done when on the field, though, should not be viewed through the narrow prism of “vulture.” On his 436 career rushes, Bush has gone for an average of 4.4 yards. Not elite, but impressive for someone often tasked with simply plunging up the middle.

In three starts in place of McFadden last season, Bush twice surpassed 100 yards. This brings us to Week 7. With McFadden spraining his foot just minutes into a disastrous loss to the Chiefs, Bush was forced into action. As the walls closed in on the rest of Oakland’s offense, Bush barreled through them, taking the ball 17 times for 99 yards. He was the lone bright spot on an otherwise dismal afternoon.

With DMC now appearing all but certain to sit out this weekend, Bush will be making his first start of 2011. What should you expect? Big numbers against the Broncos’ middling run defense, and production you’d take week-in and week-out if only Bush could get the work.

Bush may clean up after the kill for his day job, but in a fair world, he’d be going in for it.

NEWS OF THE DAY #2
Known mostly for its disastrous play and 4:05 ET start times, the NFC West has been trying to stake a new claim to fame this season: injured quarterbacks.

Sam Bradford has missed two games with a high-ankle sprain, while Tarvaris Jackson has been held out of parts of three with a pectoral issue. But just as St. Louis and Seattle’s signal callers appear to be returning to health (both are on track to start in Week 9), Kevin Kolb is losing his.

Three days after being diagnosed with turf toe, Kolb was revealed on Wednesday to also be dealing with a “mid-foot sprain” and bone bruise. The situations has cast grave doubt on his Week 9 status, paving the way for the return of the John Skelton magical mystery tour.

If you’ve been starting Kolb in a two-QB league, take this as your opportunity to move on to greener pastures.

NEWS OF THE DAY #3
On Monday, the news that breakout tight end Fred Davis was in a walking boot with an ankle injury became the latest black cloud hanging over a disintegrating Redskins offense. On Wednesday, the news that he was already out of it created a rare sigh of relief.

Davis is not out of the woods yet, however. Although he is dealing with “just” a garden variety ankle sprain, he failed to practice yesterday and is not guaranteed to return on Thursday. He is ultimately expected to take the field against the 49ers, but will be someone to pay close attention to between now and Sunday.

The news is less good for Davis’ newest teammate Tashard Choice, who has already been ruled out for Week 9 with the hamstring injury that played a part in his release from the Cowboys. Such an early deactivation does not bode well for his Week 10 status.

Considering the volatile state of Washington’s backfield, Choice should not be owned in any format. If you need immediate help, you should be looking elsewhere.

NEWS OF THE DAY #4
Peyton Hillis just can’t do anything right these days. Less than 48 hours after blowing off a children's Halloween party he was supposed to attend, Hillis (hamstring) missed yet another practice, putting him on track to sit out for the third straight weekend.

With Montario Hardesty out with a calf injury, that leaves Cleveland with Chris Ogbonnaya and Thomas Clayton at running back. Barring an unforeseen second half renaissance, Hillis will likely find himself feeling like the kids he stood up on Monday when it comes time to negotiate a new deal this winter.

NEWS OF THE DAY #5
Already considered a long-shot to play this weekend after injuring his groin in Monday’s embarrassing loss, Ryan Mathews’ odds of suiting up against the Packers grew longer when he failed to practice Wednesday. Unless he makes a surprise return to full participation this afternoon, he should sit out while a finally healthy Mike Tolbert (hamstring) carries the load against one of the league’s stingier defenses.

INJURY QUICK SLANTS
Elsewhere in the Chargers backfield, Curtis Brinkley (concussion) has yet to pass his baseline test, and will almost certainly miss Week 9. … "Swollen and sore,” Ahmad Bradshaw (foot) did not practice Wednesday. Not a huge concern after he played through the injury on Sunday, but it will be a red flag if he’s not at least limited today. … According to respected beat writer John McClain, Houston does not “have a clue right now" if Andre Johnson (hamstring) will play this weekend. With the Texans bye coming in Week 11, it’s hard to see them forcing their all-world receiver out there on Sunday. … Two weeks after being released by the Rams, Mike Sims-Walker (knee) landed on injured reserve Wednesday. Just two years removed from an 869-yard season, his NFL career could be over. … Despite missing practice Wednesday, Beanie Wells (knee) is expected to play hurt for the second straight week. … Mark Ingram (heel) is uncertain for Week 9 after missing another practice Wednesday. … Daniel Thomas (hamstring) was limited, but it’s too early to tell if he’ll return on Sunday.

HacheMan · Nov 3, 2011

Week 9 Rankings

I read in a few places that A.J. Feeley's performance against the Saints was "efficient." After watching the Rams-Saints game this week, I realize that "efficient" is analyst codeword for "crappy."

Feeley threw 37 passes to gain 175 yards and a touchdown. He missed open receivers all day. You may be wondering why I'm wasting time on Feeley, but it's one of those open receivers I'm interested in.

Brandon Lloyd has 12 catches and a score in two games in St. Louis. That's great production in any circumstances. It's a borderline miracle on a new team with Feeley at the helm. Lloyd was wide open deep a few times against New Orleans, but Feeley missed him. Lloyd also dropped a possible long score on a slant. Josh McDaniels is using Lloyd in a variety of ways, not just as a deep threat.

Lloyd could be a sleeping fantasy giant; he makes a great trade target. Sam Bradford should return this week or next, and it wouldn’t surprise me to see Lloyd put up WR1 numbers in the second half.

Look for that kind of production this week against the hapless Cardinals secondary. (Even if Feeley is playing "efficient" football again.)

Week 9 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 www.rapsports.com </TD><TD>at SD</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>2</TD><TD>Michael Vick</TD><TD>vs. CHI</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>3</TD><TD>Tom Brady</TD><TD>vs. NYG</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>4</TD><TD>Drew Brees</TD><TD>vs. TB</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>5</TD><TD>Eli Manning</TD><TD>at NE</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>6</TD><TD>Philip Rivers</TD><TD>vs. GB</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>7</TD><TD>Ben Roethlisberger</TD><TD>vs. BAL</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>8</TD><TD>Tony Romo</TD><TD>vs. SEA</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>9</TD><TD>Jay Cutler</TD><TD>at PHI</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>10</TD><TD>Matt Ryan</TD><TD>at IND</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>11</TD><TD>Matt Schaub</TD><TD>vs. CLE</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>12</TD><TD>Tim Tebow</TD><TD>at OAK</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>13</TD><TD>Ryan Fitzpatrick</TD><TD>vs. NYJ</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>14</TD><TD>Josh Freeman</TD><TD>at NO</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>15</TD><TD>Matt Cassel</TD><TD>vs. MIA</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>16</TD><TD>Mark Sanchez</TD><TD>at BUF</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>17</TD><TD>Sam Bradford</TD><TD>at ARZ</TD><TD>Questionable (ankle)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>18</TD><TD>Kevin Kolb</TD><TD>vs. STL</TD><TD>Questionable (toe)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>19</TD><TD>Joe Flacco</TD><TD>at PIT</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>20</TD><TD>Tarvaris Jackson</TD><TD>at DAL</TD><TD>Questionable (pectorals)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>21</TD><TD>Matt Hasselbeck</TD><TD>vs. CIN</TD><TD>Probable (thumb)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>22</TD><TD>Carson Palmer</TD><TD>vs. DEN</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>23</TD><TD>Alex Smith</TD><TD>at WAS</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>24</TD><TD>John Beck</TD><TD>vs. SF</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>25</TD><TD>A.J. Feeley</TD><TD>at ARZ</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>26</TD><TD>Colt McCoy</TD><TD>at HOU</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>27</TD><TD>Matt Moore</TD><TD>at KC</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>28</TD><TD>Andy Dalton</TD><TD>at TEN</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>29</TD><TD>John Skelton</TD><TD>vs. STL</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>30</TD><TD>Curtis Painter</TD><TD>vs. ATL</TD><TD>-</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

QB Notes: Drew Brees just isn't completing passes to the outside. Robert Meachem and Devery Henderson have become non- factors. Everything is short or over the middle and the team's protection is lagging. I'm not too worried about him yet in fantasy leagues, but it's something to keep an eye on. ... Monday night's game was a typical one for Philip Rivers this season. He still made a lot of plays and went over 300 yards. He made some terrific throws, but the ball came out funny and high at other times. I think you keep rolling with him against a team like Green Bay. His biggest problem has been converting in the red zone.

Matt Schaub isn't a bad target for the second half because the schedule is favorable. With that said, he misses a lot of throws on a weekly basis. ... Kevin Kolb may have the worst pocket presence of any well-paid starter in the league. Turf toe may keep him out this week. ... So often last week, Matt Hasselbeck had all day to throw the ball, scanned the field, and found no one open. His timing is off even with veteran receivers like Nate Washington. There just aren't enough weapons for Hasselbeck to make a fantasy impact.

The Giants have the pass rush to give Tom Brady problems, but not the cornerbacks. Expect a high scoring game. ... Eli Manning is second in the league in yards-per-attempt. He's nearly a must start in such a good matchup. ... There was a big drop-off this week after the top six. Ben Roethlisberger has a tough matchup and Tony Romo isn't playing well, but there just aren't many better options. ... Jay Cutler was playing well before the bye. Chicago appears to have figured out some of their protection issues. Tim Tebow's passing skills are laughable, but he's doing enough running the ball to keep him a borderline QB1 while he keeps the starting job. The notion that the Broncos aren't tailoring the offense to him doesn't make sense. They are doing a ton of shotgun and running out of shotgun, but he just isn't comfortable in the pocket. ... Matt Cassel isn't a terrible bye week fill- in if you need help this week.


Week 9 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>Arian Foster</TD><TD>vs. CLE</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>2</TD><TD>Matt Forte</TD><TD>at PHI</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>3</TD><TD>Fred Jackson</TD><TD>vs. NYJ</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>4</TD><TD>LeSean McCoy</TD><TD>vs. CHI</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>5</TD><TD>Frank Gore</TD><TD>at WAS</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>6</TD><TD>Ray Rice</TD><TD>at PIT</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>7</TD><TD>Michael Turner</TD><TD>at IND</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>8</TD><TD>Steven Jackson</TD><TD>at ARZ</TD><TD>Probable (quadriceps)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>9</TD><TD>Beanie Wells</TD><TD>vs. STL</TD><TD>Questionable (knee)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>10</TD><TD>DeMarco Murray</TD><TD>vs. SEA</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>11</TD><TD>Ryan Mathews</TD><TD>vs. GB</TD><TD>Ranked in case he starts</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>12</TD><TD>Darren Sproles</TD><TD>vs. TB</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>13</TD><TD>Shonn Greene</TD><TD>at BUF</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>14</TD><TD>Michael Bush</TD><TD>vs. DEN</TD><TD>Assuming no McFadden</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>15</TD><TD>Rashard Mendenhall</TD><TD>vs. BAL</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>16</TD><TD>LeGarrette Blount</TD><TD>at NO</TD><TD>Probable (knee)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>17</TD><TD>Jackie Battle</TD><TD>vs. MIA</TD><TD>Probable (-)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>18</TD><TD>Peyton Hillis</TD><TD>at HOU</TD><TD>Ranked in case he starts </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>19</TD><TD>Ahmad Bradshaw</TD><TD>at NE</TD><TD>Questionable (foot)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>20</TD><TD>Cedric Benson</TD><TD>at TEN</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>21</TD><TD>Willis McGahee</TD><TD>at OAK</TD><TD>Questionable (hand)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>22</TD><TD>BenJarvus Green-Ellis</TD><TD>vs. NYG</TD><TD>Questionable (toe)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>23</TD><TD>James Starks</TD><TD>at SD</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>24</TD><TD>Chris Johnson</TD><TD>vs. CIN</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>25</TD><TD>Mark Ingram</TD><TD>vs. TB</TD><TD>Status Uncertain</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>26</TD><TD>Mike Tolbert</TD><TD>vs. GB</TD><TD>Keep eye on Mathews</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>27</TD><TD>Reggie Bush</TD><TD>at KC</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>28</TD><TD>Daniel Thomas</TD><TD>at KC</TD><TD>Questionable (hamstring)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>29</TD><TD>Pierre Thomas</TD><TD>vs. TB</TD><TD>Move up if no Ingram</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>30</TD><TD>Ryan Torain</TD><TD>vs. SF</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>31</TD><TD>Knowshon Moreno</TD><TD>at OAK</TD><TD>Keep eye on Willis</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>32</TD><TD>Ryan Grant</TD><TD>at SD</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>33</TD><TD>Marshawn Lynch</TD><TD>at DAL</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>34</TD><TD>Chris Ogbonnaya</TD><TD>at HOU</TD><TD>Move up to 27 if no Hillis</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>35</TD><TD>Javon Ringer</TD><TD>vs. CIN</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>36</TD><TD>Roy Helu</TD><TD>vs. SF</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>37</TD><TD>Brandon Jacobs</TD><TD>at NE</TD><TD>Slow-ass runner</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>38</TD><TD>Delone Carter</TD><TD>vs. ATL</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>39</TD><TD>Donald Brown</TD><TD>vs. ATL</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>40</TD><TD>Ben Tate</TD><TD>vs. CLE</TD><TD>Probable (groin)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>41</TD><TD>Bernard Scott</TD><TD>at TEN</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>42</TD><TD>LaDainian Tomlinson</TD><TD>at BUF</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>43</TD><TD>Lance Ball</TD><TD>at OAK</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>44</TD><TD>Kendall Hunter</TD><TD>at WAS</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>45</TD><TD>Ricky Williams</TD><TD>at PIT</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>46</TD><TD>Kevin Faulk</TD><TD>vs. NYG</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>47</TD><TD>C.J. Spiller</TD><TD>vs. NYJ</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>48</TD><TD>Dexter McCluster</TD><TD>vs. MIA</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>49</TD><TD>Kregg Lumpkin</TD><TD>at NO</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>50</TD><TD>Stevan Ridley</TD><TD>vs. NYG</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>51</TD><TD>Isaac Redman</TD><TD>vs. BAL</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>52</TD><TD>Chris Ivory</TD><TD>vs. TB</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>53</TD><TD>Joseph Addai</TD><TD>vs. ATL</TD><TD>Questionable (hamstring)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>54</TD><TD>Thomas Jones</TD><TD>vs. MIA</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>55</TD><TD>Phillip Tanner</TD><TD>vs. SEA</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>56</TD><TD>Leon Washington</TD><TD>at DAL</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>57</TD><TD>Danny Woodhead</TD><TD>vs. NYG</TD><TD>-</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

RB Notes: While Brandon Lloyd makes a great trade target, Steven Jackson is a less exciting one. The Rams face a tough schedule against the run: Cleveland, Seattle, Cincinnati, Pittsburgh and San Francisco are all still left. Jackson's resurgence is great to see, but I have doubts it can keep up after this week's game against Arizona. ... Miami's rush defense has been improving, but the Chiefs are still a good bet to give Jackie Battle 15-plus carries in Arrowhead on Sunday. He's a great goal- line back and is an every-week RB2 until proven otherwise. Kansas City's offensive line is playing at a high level.

Jonathan Stewart is off this week, but I want to write about him because I think he's a great bye week trade target. He played double the amount of snaps of DeAngelo Williams last week. Stewart is running very well, even if he's not exploding on the box score. Stewart is now even in the game on third downs with the game on the line. Cam Newton opens up holes for his runners. I could see Stewart having a very explosive second half. Few players can run with power and get to the outside like him. ... Delone Carter has 19 carries for 135 yards the last two weeks, but it's tough to count on him to score and we may not know Joseph Addai's status until gametime.

I watched all of Chris Johnson's carries closely this week. He seems hesitant even the couple times he gets a little space ahead of the line of scrimmage. He's a shaky RB2/flex at this point. If he couldn't break out against Indy, I'm not sure when it will happen. Look for Javon Ringer to split carries this week in a tougher matchup. ... I wouldn't have bought the hype on Curtis Brinkley even if he didn't suffer a concussion. He's going to have a role this year catching some passes, but I doubt it will be consistent. Mike Tolbert is a solid play if Ryan Mathews is out this week. I've left Mathews on the rankings for now. We'll update the rankings on Season Pass on Friday after the injury report, as always. They get updated here by Sunday morning.

Shonn Greene was starting to run well before the bye week. The difference between him and a RB1 is that Greene never makes the last man miss once he gets to the secondary. But I think the Jets OL has figured some things out and RB2 value is on the way, especially this week against the Bills. ... There are a lot of injury situations to watch. Willis McGahee is a decent RB2 if he starts. Darren McFadden looks unlikely to play, which makes Michael Bush a great option. Peyton Hillis will probably be taken off the rankings Friday evening, but he's on the list for now.


Week 9 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>Mike Wallace</TD><TD>vs. BAL</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>2</TD><TD>Larry Fitzgerald</TD><TD>vs. STL</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>3</TD><TD>Hakeem Nicks</TD><TD>at NE</TD><TD>Questionable (hamstring)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>4</TD><TD>Andre Johnson</TD><TD>vs. CLE</TD><TD>Questionable (hamstring)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>5</TD><TD>Wes Welker</TD><TD>vs. NYG</TD><TD>Probable (neck)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>6</TD><TD>Greg Jennings</TD><TD>at SD</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>7</TD><TD>Roddy White</TD><TD>at IND</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>8</TD><TD>Dwayne Bowe</TD><TD>vs. MIA</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>9</TD><TD>Miles Austin</TD><TD>vs. SEA</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>10</TD><TD>Vincent Jackson</TD><TD>vs. GB</TD><TD>Questionable (hamstring)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>11</TD><TD>DeSean Jackson</TD><TD>vs. CHI</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>12</TD><TD>Brandon Lloyd</TD><TD>at ARZ</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>13</TD><TD>Dez Bryant</TD><TD>vs. SEA</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>14</TD><TD>Marques Colston</TD><TD>vs. TB</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>15</TD><TD>Jeremy Maclin</TD><TD>vs. CHI</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>16</TD><TD>A.J. Green</TD><TD>at TEN</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>17</TD><TD>Julio Jones</TD><TD>at IND</TD><TD>Probable (hamstring)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>18</TD><TD>Mario Manningham</TD><TD>at NE</TD><TD>Probable (illness)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>19</TD><TD>Santonio Holmes</TD><TD>at BUF</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>20</TD><TD>Brandon Marshall</TD><TD>at KC</TD><TD>Probable (quadriceps)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>21</TD><TD>Mike Williams</TD><TD>at NO</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>22</TD><TD>Sidney Rice</TD><TD>at DAL</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>23</TD><TD>Victor Cruz</TD><TD>at NE</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>24</TD><TD>Jordy Nelson</TD><TD>at SD</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>25</TD><TD>Anquan Boldin</TD><TD>at PIT</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>26</TD><TD>Michael Crabtree</TD><TD>at WAS</TD><TD>Probable (foot)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>27</TD><TD>Stevie Johnson</TD><TD>vs. NYJ</TD><TD>Probable (groin)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>28</TD><TD>Pierre Garcon</TD><TD>vs. ATL</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>29</TD><TD>Antonio Brown</TD><TD>vs. BAL</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>30</TD><TD>Nate Washington</TD><TD>vs. CIN</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>31</TD><TD>Deion Branch</TD><TD>vs. NYG</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>32</TD><TD>Reggie Wayne</TD><TD>vs. ATL</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>33</TD><TD>Jonathan Baldwin</TD><TD>vs. MIA</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>34</TD><TD>Greg Little</TD><TD>at HOU</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>35</TD><TD>Lance Moore</TD><TD>vs. TB</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>36</TD><TD>James Jones</TD><TD>at SD</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>37</TD><TD>Malcom Floyd</TD><TD>vs. GB</TD><TD>Questionable (hip)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>38</TD><TD>Eric Decker</TD><TD>at OAK</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>39</TD><TD>Plaxico Burress</TD><TD>at BUF</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>40</TD><TD>Emmanuel Sanders</TD><TD>vs. BAL</TD><TD>Questionable (knee)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>41</TD><TD>Jabar Gaffney</TD><TD>vs. SF</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>42</TD><TD>David Nelson</TD><TD>vs. NYJ</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>43</TD><TD>Torrey Smith</TD><TD>at PIT</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>44</TD><TD>Darrius Heyward-Bey</TD><TD>vs. DEN</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>45</TD><TD>Johnny Knox</TD><TD>at PHI</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>46</TD><TD>Steve Breaston</TD><TD>vs. MIA</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>47</TD><TD>Early Doucet</TD><TD>vs. STL</TD><TD>Questionable (quadriceps)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>48</TD><TD>Jerome Simpson</TD><TD>at TEN</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>49</TD><TD>Roy Williams</TD><TD>at PHI</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>50</TD><TD>Doug Baldwin</TD><TD>at DAL</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>51</TD><TD>Braylon Edwards</TD><TD>at WAS</TD><TD>Probable (knee)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>52</TD><TD>Kevin Walter</TD><TD>vs. CLE</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>53</TD><TD>Devin Hester</TD><TD>at PHI</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>54</TD><TD>Davone Bess</TD><TD>at KC</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>55</TD><TD>Denarius Moore</TD><TD>vs. DEN</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>56</TD><TD>Greg Salas</TD><TD>at ARZ</TD><TD>Probable (ribs)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>57</TD><TD>Demaryius Thomas</TD><TD>at OAK</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>58</TD><TD>Robert Meachem</TD><TD>vs. TB</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>59</TD><TD>Jason Avant</TD><TD>vs. CHI</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>60</TD><TD>Jacoby Ford</TD><TD>vs. DEN</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>61</TD><TD>Ben Obomanu</TD><TD>at DAL</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>62</TD><TD>Damian Williams</TD><TD>vs. CIN</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>63</TD><TD>Eddie Royal</TD><TD>at OAK</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>64</TD><TD>Austin Collie</TD><TD>vs. ATL</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>65</TD><TD>Laurent Robinson</TD><TD>vs. SEA</TD><TD>-</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

WR Notes: Lance Moore is coming off a big week, but there is no telling when it will happen again. Marques Colston, Jimmy Graham and even Jed Collins also catch passes up the seam. Moore is a shaky WR3. ... Mike Williams had a nice game before Tampa's bye. He's not a bad start this week, especially if Tracy Porter covers him. Porter is not playing with confidence. ... I don't think Jonathan Baldwin is a one-game wonder. I'd rather own him than Steve Breaston, and I liked Breaston a lot. Baldwin gives the Chiefs offense a needed dimension. He had a couple of drops, but his ability to work out of the slot at times and run solid routes impressed.

There was once a time the Chargers defense was a tough matchup. That time has passed. ... Brandon Marshall keeps getting tough matchups. Brandon Flowers will take him this week; Marshall feels like a generic WR2 but he's still on pace for more than 1,100 yards. ... Kevin Kolb's status matters for Larry Fitzgerald. Knock him down a few spots if John Skelton is in there. ... Look for more shotgun and no huddle out of Joe Flacco and the Ravens this week. That should lead to plenty of targets for Anquan Boldin, even with Ike Taylor tracking him.

The most impressive thing Plaxico Burress did before the bye was to make an open field move on a short pass. I didn't think he had it in him, but I'm still not buying Burress as a decent WR3. The matchup is right this week, but I just don't see Burress being a consistent option. ... This should be a week for the Cowboys receivers to get off. We've said that before, though. ... If Emmanuel Sanders is out, move Antonio Brown up the rankings for Sunday. ... I have no qualms calling Julio Jones a must-start coming off an injury because of the matchup against the Colts. ... Torrey Smith gets open deep once a game. If Joe Flacco hits him, Smith has a nice week. If not, you are in trouble.


Week 9 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>Jimmy Graham</TD><TD>vs. TB</TD><TD>Probable (ankle)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>2</TD><TD>Antonio Gates</TD><TD>vs. GB</TD><TD>Probable (foot)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>3</TD><TD>Jason Witten</TD><TD>vs. SEA</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>4</TD><TD>Rob Gronkowski</TD><TD>vs. NYG</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>5</TD><TD>Jermichael Finley</TD><TD>at SD</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>6</TD><TD>Aaron Hernandez</TD><TD>vs. NYG</TD><TD>Probable (knee)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>7</TD><TD>Owen Daniels</TD><TD>vs. CLE</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>8</TD><TD>Fred Davis</TD><TD>vs. SF</TD><TD>Questionable (ankle)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>9</TD><TD>Tony Gonzalez</TD><TD>at IND</TD><TD>Probable (back)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>10</TD><TD>Vernon Davis</TD><TD>at WAS</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>11</TD><TD>Dustin Keller</TD><TD>at BUF</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>12</TD><TD>Dallas Clark</TD><TD>vs. ATL</TD><TD>Probable (knee)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>13</TD><TD>Kellen Winslow</TD><TD>at NO</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>14</TD><TD>Heath Miller</TD><TD>vs. BAL</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>15</TD><TD>Jermaine Gresham</TD><TD>at TEN</TD><TD>Questionable (hamstring)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>16</TD><TD>Brent Celek</TD><TD>vs. CHI</TD><TD>Probable (illness)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>17</TD><TD>Ed Dickson</TD><TD>at PIT</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>18</TD><TD>Jake Ballard</TD><TD>at NE</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>19</TD><TD>Ben Watson</TD><TD>at HOU</TD><TD>Questionable (concussion)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>20</TD><TD>Jared Cook</TD><TD>vs. CIN</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>21</TD><TD>Kevin Boss</TD><TD>vs. DEN</TD><TD>Probable (concussion)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>22</TD><TD>Scott Chandler</TD><TD>vs. NYJ</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>23</TD><TD>Evan Moore</TD><TD>at HOU</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>24</TD><TD>Zach Miller</TD><TD>at DAL</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>25</TD><TD>Todd Heap</TD><TD>vs. STL</TD><TD>Questionable (hamstring)</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

TE Notes: Antonio Gates is clearly not 100 percent and he's still producing like Antonio Gates. It wouldn't be crazy to move him if you can get top dollar because his foot seems like a ticking time bomb. ... Jimmy Graham is starting to get more attention from defenses. The Saints should be able to get him the ball anyhow. ... Jermichael Finley moves down a bit with a matchup against Eric Weddle. ... Tony Gonzalez was slowing down before the bye, but now he gets the soft Colts secondary fully rested. ... Heath Miller, Jermaine Gresham and Brent Celek are all fine options this week. We're going 16-deep of TE1-caliber players right now. ... Fred Davis is banged up, but the Redskins just don't have many other guys to throw to. He's a must start if he plays.

Week 9 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>Fortyniners Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at WAS</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>2</TD><TD>Texans Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. CLE</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>3</TD><TD>Raiders Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. DEN</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>4</TD><TD>Cowboys Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. SEA</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>5</TD><TD>Ravens Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at PIT</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>6</TD><TD>Steelers Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. BAL</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>7</TD><TD>Falcons Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at IND</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>8</TD><TD>Bengals Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at TEN</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>9</TD><TD>Eagles Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. CHI</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>10</TD><TD>Jets Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at BUF</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>11</TD><TD>Titans Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. CIN</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>12</TD><TD>Packers Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at SD</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>13</TD><TD>Chiefs Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. MIA</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>14</TD><TD>Saints Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. TB</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>15</TD><TD>Giants Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at NE</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>16</TD><TD>Bears Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at PHI</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>17</TD><TD>Bills Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. NYJ</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>18</TD><TD>Broncos Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at OAK</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>19</TD><TD>Rams Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at ARZ</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>20</TD><TD>Patriots Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. NYG</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>21</TD><TD>Redskins Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. SF</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>22</TD><TD>Cardinals Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. STL</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>23</TD><TD>Dolphins Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at KC</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>24</TD><TD>Seahawks Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at DAL</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>25</TD><TD>Browns Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at HOU</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>26</TD><TD>Buccaneers Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at NO</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>27</TD><TD>Chargers Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. GB</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>28</TD><TD>Colts Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. ATL</TD><TD>-</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

Week 9 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>John Kasay</TD><TD>vs. TB</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>2</TD><TD>Sebastian Janikowski</TD><TD>vs. DEN</TD><TD>Sidelined(hamstring)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>3</TD><TD>Neil Rackers</TD><TD>vs. CLE</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>4</TD><TD>Stephen Gostkowski</TD><TD>vs. NYG</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>5</TD><TD>Mason Crosby</TD><TD>at SD</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>6</TD><TD>Matt Bryant</TD><TD>at IND</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>7</TD><TD>David Akers</TD><TD>at WAS</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>8</TD><TD>Alex Henery</TD><TD>vs. CHI</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>9</TD><TD>Dan Bailey</TD><TD>vs. SEA</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>10</TD><TD>Rian Lindell</TD><TD>vs. NYJ</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>11</TD><TD>Nick Novak</TD><TD>vs. GB</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>12</TD><TD>Josh Brown</TD><TD>at ARZ</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>13</TD><TD>Shaun Suisham</TD><TD>vs. BAL</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>14</TD><TD>Billy Cundiff</TD><TD>at PIT</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>15</TD><TD>Robbie Gould</TD><TD>at PHI</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>16</TD><TD>Ryan Succop</TD><TD>vs. MIA</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>17</TD><TD>Rob Bironas</TD><TD>vs. CIN</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>18</TD><TD>Nick Folk</TD><TD>at BUF</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>19</TD><TD>Lawrence Tynes</TD><TD>at NE</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>20</TD><TD>Jay Feely</TD><TD>vs. STL</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>21</TD><TD>Dan Carpenter</TD><TD>at KC</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>22</TD><TD>Steven Hauschka</TD><TD>at DAL</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>23</TD><TD>Mike Nugent</TD><TD>at TEN</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>24</TD><TD>Connor Barth</TD><TD>at NO</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>25</TD><TD>Adam Vinatieri</TD><TD>vs. ATL</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>26</TD><TD>Matt Prater</TD><TD>at OAK</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>27</TD><TD>Phil Dawson</TD><TD>at HOU</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>28</TD><TD>Graham Gano</TD><TD>vs. SF</TD><TD>-</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

HacheMan · Nov 7, 2011

No Smiles for Miles

It's probably not much consolation to fantasy owners carrying Miles Austin on their roster, but Week 9 was actually one of the quieter Sundays of the season on the injury front.

The most impactful injury of a low-volume Sunday in the infirmary appears to have been the second quarter aggravation of Austin's troublesome hamstring. There was no immediate word on the severity of said hamstring as of Sunday night, but as we saw with Hakeem Nicks this week, even a mild hamstring strain has a good chance to equal a missed game (or games). With that in mind, fantasy owners should brace for the possibility of an Austin-less Week 10, and consider dialing up Laurent Robinson (5 rec, 32 yds, TD) on the waiver wire.

In other injury news...

Greg Salas suffered a season-ending fractured left fibula on his seventh catch of the day. It's obviously rotten timing for Salas, who was on the verge of potentially becoming Danny Amendola Lite with Sam Bradford (ankle) back under center. With Salas done, Austin Pettis (4 rec, 43 yds) will warrant a look in deeper leagues. (And speaking of Bradford, he did report ankle soreness after Sunday's game, but it doesn't have the sound of anything to worry about.)

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Nate Washington (3 rec, 28 yds) suffered a hip pointer, leaving his status for Week 10 uncertain. If Washington is unable to go, it would mean more targets for Damian Williams (4 rec, 34 yds, TD), though Williams is likely to remain a low-ceiling WR3 with or without Washington on the field.

Dallas Clark (2 rec, 21 yds) saw his day end early due to a second quarter leg injury. No word on the severity of the injury as of Sunday night, but Jacob Tamme (2 rec, 6 yds) would take over as the starter (albeit one with limited upside) if Clark misses time.

Hines Ward left Sunday's game with what was initially called a stinger after a helmet-to-helmet hit. However, given the nature of the injury, it wouldn't be a shock to see it re-classified as a concussion. And though Ward himself doesn't carry much fantasy value, it would only help the already rising value of Antonio Brown (5 rec, 109 yds) if Ward is unable to play in Week 10.

Other Injury Notes: Beanie Wells left with a neck stinger, but was able to return ... Lance Kendricks (sprained foot) is reportedly headed for an MRI ... Dustin Keller left with a head injury in the second quarter, but later returned ... Fred Jackson sustained a stinger, but was able to play through it ... Mohamed Massaquoi, who was coming off a concussion, left with another head injury ... Malcom Floyd (hip) warmed up and stretched prior to Sunday's game, but ended up being inactive ... Kendall Hunter dislocated a finger, but played through it ... Matt Hasselbeck was icing his right (throwing) thumb following Sunday's loss, but it doesn't sound like an issue that will cost him any time ... Per the Associated Press, the Browns have not considered placing Peyton Hillis (hamstring) on injured reserve ... The Newark Star-Ledger reports that Plaxico Burress (back) didn't think he'd be able to play on Sunday, but Burress actually looked rather spry en route to season-highs of five catches and 79 yards.

Editor’s note: If you want to draft a new fantasy team, check out SnapDraft here.

Defense/Offensive Line Injuries: Bucs DT Gerald McCoy is likely done for the season due to a torn biceps muscle ... Browns SS T.J. Ward (foot) was in a walking boot after Sunday's game ... Saints CB Tracy Porter was carted off with a neck injury, but does have full use of his arms and legs, and passed neurological tests, per ProFootballTalk ... Redskins RT Jammal Brown left with a hip injury ... Broncos FS Rahim Moore sustained a concussion ... Patriots LB Brandon Spikes left with a knee injury.

HacheMan · Nov 7, 2011

Shootout at San Diego

Much like Pedro Martinez in his prime, Aaron Rodgers has an array of throws in his repertoire that the rest of the league’s quarterbacks just can’t match. The rare power thrower with pinpoint accuracy and mobility, Rodgers led the Packers to four touchdowns and a field goal on their first six offensive drives at San Diego. Along the way, Rodgers broke a tie with Hall of Famer Steve Young with an eighth consecutive game posting a passer rating of at least 110 while becoming the first quarterback in NFL history with 2,600 yards and 24 touchdowns through the first eight games of the season.

No player in history has boasted a higher completion percentage (72.5) or passer rating (129.1), and Rodgers’ 9.9 YPA is the highest average in modern history. Per the Boston Globe, only Sid Luckman (10.86 in 1943), Otto Graham (10.55 in ’53), and Norm Van Brocklin (10.14 in ’54) have posted higher marks. Rodgers has made a mockery of the mid-season MVP race, playing quarterback at a level never before seen in the NFL.

“I think it’s a natural progression for a quarterback to gain more and more confidence as you move on -- not only in the offense but playing with the same perimeter players,’’ coach Mike McCarthy said before Sunday’s game. “So there’s a lot of confidence between the quarterback and the perimeter players and even more so with the protection unit as far as picking things up, making sure he has a good pocket. And he has great confidence, not just in one receiver, but it’s the whole group. I think you’re really seeing what happens when you get to that point.’’

As ColdHardFootballFacts.com points out, the 2010-11 Green Bay Packers are the first team in NFL history to win 14 consecutive games without trailing in the fourth quarter. The 1942-43 Redskins were the previous record-holders with a 13-game streak.

Rodgers piled up a league-high 38 fantasy points in the shootout at San Diego, besting Philip Rivers and Vincent Jackson with 33 and 32 respectively. Continuing his season-long struggles, Rivers threw a pair of pick-sixes and a career-high third interception while also taking a back-breaking intentional grounding penalty with the game on the line. Rivers’ 14 interceptions are already more than he’s had in any season since 2007 and three more than any other quarterback in the league. While Tony Romo has the reputation for coming up short in crunch time, Rivers is now 2-9 in fourth quarter comeback opportuntities since 2010.

“I’m not the first quarterback that’s fought through this thing, and I certainly won’t be the last,” Rivers said Sunday night. “You fight through a slump. A home-run hitter keeps swinging, and a 3-point shooter keeps shooting.” Although Rivers did suffer a sternum injury back in Week 2, he has repeatedly refuted speculation that his health is a factor. His fantasy value hinges heavily on scoring system. Rivers is a top-eight fantasy QB in leagues that don’t penalize for turnovers versus 15th in standard-scoring formats.

Game Balls

Eli Manning not only one-upped Tom Brady in Foxboro, he did it without Hakeem Nicks and Ahmad Bradshaw -- his two best offensive weapons. Proving to be elite as the best fourth-quarter passer in the league this season, Eli guided touchdown drives of 80 and 85 yards in the final seven minutes of the game. It was the fifth fourth-quarter, game-winning drive for Manning since Week 3.

The performance ended New England’s streaks of 18 home wins against NFC teams, 20 consecutive regular-season home wins (fourth-longest in history), and Brady’s 31 consecutive regular-season home wins (longest in history). Before Sunday, Brady hadn’t lost a regular-season home game since the 2006 season. Locked in as a QB1, Eli is seventh at his position in fantasy points while on pace for a career-high 4,754 yards and a 30:12 TD-to-INT ratio.

In many ways, DeMarco’s Murray’s 186 total yards against a Seahawks defense previously allowing just 3.5 yards per carry was more impressive than his franchise record breaking 253 yards in his first start. Displayed a better than advertised burst while hitting holes decisively, Murray’s two 100-yard games in three weeks match the career total of injured starter Felix Jones. His 466 yards are the most by a Cowboys back in a three-game span in franchise history. Murray has also joined ex-Broncos runner Mike Anderson as the only rookies in history with a 250-yard game and a 135-yard outing in a three-game span. His current average of 6.7 yards per carry is the highest mark for a rookie since Bo Jackson in 1987. It’s clear now that the Cowboys are simply a better team with Murray in the lineup. He’s not giving up the lead-back job even when Jones returns.

Don’t let Matt Ryan’s 120.7 passer rating versus the Colts fool you. Julio Jones saved him from another shaky performance with a spectacular diving 50-yard bomb in triple coverage and a short slant that turned into an 80-yard score by out-running Indy’s defense. Jones is the first rookie receiver since the merger with a 50-yard touchdown and an 80-yard touchown in the same game. He’s going to end up giving A.J. Green a run for his money as the top rookie receiver after all.

For the second time in three weeks, Arian Foster and Ben Tate both cleared 100 yards in a blowout victory. Foster now has six consecutive games with at least 100 yards from scrimmage, averaging 160 per week while finding the end zone a half-dozen times. Despite missing the majority of the first three games, Foster is fifth among fantasy backs on the season while Tate is sitting at No. 20. Boosted by a mauling offensive line, the Texans boast the most dangerously efficient ground attack in the NFL.

Mid-Season All Pro Team

QB: Aaron Rodgers, Packers
RB: Fred Jackson, Bills
RB: Matt Forte, Bears
WR: Calvin Johnson, Lions
WR: Wes Welker, Patriots
TE: Jimmy Graham, Saints
OT: Jordan Gross, Panthers
OT: Eric Winston, Texans
OG: Josh Sitton, Packers
OG: Marshal Yanda, Ravens
C: Chris Myers, Texans

DE: Justin Smith, 49ers
DE: Jared Allen, Vikings
DT: Haloti Ngata
OLB: DeMarcus Ware, Cowboys
OLB: Terrell Suggs, Ravens
ILB: Brian Cushing, Texans
ILB: Derrick Johnson, Chiefs
CB: Darrelle Revis, Jets
CB: Johnathan Joseph, Texans
FS: Ed Reed, Ravens
SS: Troy Polamalu, Steelers

K: David Akers, 49ers
P: Andy Lee, 49ers
KR: Joe McKnight, Jets
PR: Patrick Peterson, Cardinals

Mid-Season MVP: Aaron Rodgers, Packers
Mid-Season Defensive Player of the Year: Darrelle Revis, Jets
Mid-Season Offensive Rookie of the Year: Cam Newton, Panthers
Mid-Season Defensive Rookie of the Year: Von Miller, Broncos
Mid-Season Coach of the Year: Jim Harbaugh, 49ers

I’ll have a more detailed analysis of the mid-season All Pros in an NBCSports.com column coming out on Tuesday.

Committee Time

Redskins - Roy Helu (24 touches, 146 yards) / Ryan Torain (2 touches, 9 yards)

Helu was named the starter Sunday morning and dominated the workload as John Beck’s check-down option of choice. The rookie has plenty of fantasy potential as a three-down back, as coach Mike Shanahan stated Sunday night that Torain will only play when Helu needs a breather. Torain isn’t trusted on passing downs, so Helu will be a candidate for 20 touches weekly.

Titans - Chris Johnson (18 touches, 110 yards) / Javon Ringer (5 touches, 25 yards)

Leaving plenty of yards on the field, Johnson isn’t yet back to explosive 2009 form. He did finally make a few defenders miss while showing less hesitation and more decisiveness. The performance was good enough to keep Ringer at bay for one more week, though CJ1K’s value will have to be reassessed on a weekly basis until he comes through with a true breakout game.

Saints - Chris Ivory (15 carries, 67 yards) / Darren Sproles (9 touches, 99 yards, TD) / Pierre Thomas (12 touches, 91 yards, TD)

Ivory started as the early-down back, though it remains to be seen if he will have a weekly role once Mark Ingram (heel) returns. Sproles would have had a bigger game if not for a questionable holding call that nullified a touchdown of over 20 yards. He’s still the fantasy back to own in the Big Easy. Thomas continues to run with authority on an effective per-play basis, but he’s never a good bet for more than 12 touches.

Dolphins - Reggie Bush (16 touches, 142 yards) / Daniel Thomas (7 carries, 12 yards)

The Fins offensive line is healthy and blocking well, allowing Bush to impress for a second straight week while dominating the backfield snaps. Thomas isn’t showing much burst while continuing to play through a nagging hamstring injury. For now at least, Bush is the more valuable of the two Miami backs.

Packers - James Starks (14 touches, 75 yards) / Ryan Grant (4 carries, 16 yards)

Starks has at least 12 carries in each of his past five games while Grant’s role continues to be scaled back. Expect more of the same going forward with Starks as a fantasy flex play and Grant as nothing more than an end-of-roster stash.

Giants - Brandon Jacobs (22 touches, 100 yards, TD) / D.J. Ware (7 carries, 23 yards)

As expected, Jacobs functioned as the feature back with Ware in the change-of-pace role. Rookie Da’Rel saw just one carry. Regardless of whether Ahmad Bradshaw returns in Week 10, Jacobs won’t be an attractive fantasy option against a 49ers defense that shuts down opposing running games. Ware can be dropped in 12-team leagues.

Patriots - BenJarvus Green-Ellis (13 touches, 63 yards) / Danny Woodhead (10 touches, 60 yards) / Stevan Ridley (4 touches, 12 yards)

Green-Ellis played as the lead back, giving way to Danny Woodhead on passing downs with Kevin Faulk back on the shelf. Fantasy owners know the drill: this backfield depends on matchups and game momentum.

Colts - Donald Brown (17 touches, 71 yards) / Delone Carter (4 carries, 8 yards) / Joseph Addai DNP

Carter started with Addai (knee) in the “emergency” role. After a fumble on the first drive, though, Carter landed in the doghouse with Brown taking over while the Colts moved into pass-heavy comeback mode. Brown has looked as good this year as he has at any point in his disappointing career, but he's merely a stash in fantasy leagues. The role of all three backs is up in the air for Week 10 against the Jaguars.

Injury Ward

Shonn Greene, Jets - Head
Miles Austin, Cowboys - Hamstring
Greg Salas, Rams - Fibula
Nate Washington, Titans - Hip
Hines Ward, Steelers - Concussion
Mohamed Massaquoi, Browns - Head
Dallas Clark, Colts - Ankle
Jared Cook, Titans - Leg
Lance Kendricks, Rams - Foot
Rian Lindell, Bills - Shoulder

Check out Matt Stroup’s “No Smiles for Miles” for in-depth analysis of Sunday’s M*A*S*H unit fallout.

Awards Section

Stat of the Week: Courtesy of two John Skelton safeties, the Rams are the first team in NFL history with exactly four points in a quarter.

Runner-Up: The Saints are the first team in NFL history to boast a running back and a tight end with 50+ receptions apiece through the first nine games of the season. Drew Brees is the first QB to pass for 3,000+ yards in the first nine games.

Quote of the Week: Peyton Manning responding to Phil Simms’ statement that the Colts QB wouldn’t allow the franchise to draft Andrew Luck in 2012: “Yeah, I don’t talk to Phil. Phil doesn’t talk to me. He did text me after that, saying ‘Hey, sorry to drag your name into this.’ I wrote back, ‘Phil I don’t know what you’re talking about.’ He said, ‘Well on my show, Inside the NFL, I made this statement.’ I said, ‘Phil, I hate to break it to you, but I don’t watch your show, along with a lot of other people that I don’t think watch that show.’ Giving himself a little more credit than probably was merited.”

Runner-Up: Matt Forte on the Bears’ hesitance to lock him up long term: ‘‘The running back position is the most physically demanding on the field. Everyone acknowledges that. So to continue to give me the touches I’ve had since my rookie year but not award me a long-term contract sends the message that you’re OK grinding me into a pulp.’’

Tweet of the Week: From the Fake Roger Goodell account after Ray Lewis’ helmet-to-helmet hit knocked Hines Ward out of the game Sunday night: “James Harrison will be fined $75k for Ray Lewis's helmet-to-helmet hit on Hines Ward. Zero tolerance.”

Runner-Up: From MaxBroncos.com’s Andrew Mason: “Brandon Marshall reportedly called Vontae Davis ‘unprofessional.’ Isn't that like being called a bad GM by Matt Millen?”

Second Runner-Up: From SI.com’s Jimmy Traina after Jake Ballard’s game-winning touchdown to beat the Patriots and Rob Gronkowski: “Looking forward to the Bibi Jones/Jake Ballard pics tomorrow.”

Fantasy MVP of Week 9: Vincent Jackson, Chargers

Fantasy Breakout Player of Week 9: Tim Tebow, Broncos

Fantasy Rookie of Week 9: Julio Jones, Falcons

Fantasy Disappointment of Week 9: Beanie Wells, Cardinals

Fantasy Fraud of Week 9: Darrius Heyward-Bey, Raiders

Fantasy Fluke of Week 9: Anthony Fasano, Dolphins

Fine Fifteen Fantasy Offenses

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

Early Waiver Look

QB: Sam Bradford, Christian Ponder, Matt Cassel, Matt Moore
RB: Roy Helu, Chris Ivory, Chris Ogbonnaya, Joe McKnight
WR: Laurent Robinson, Jacoby Ford, Denarius Moore, Austin Pettis, Mark Clayton, Leonard Hankerson, Early Doucet, Vincent Brown, T.J. Houshmandzadeh
TE: Heath Miller, Jared Cook

HacheMan · Nov 7, 2011

MNF Matchup: Bears @ Eagles
Monday Night Football

Chicago @ Philadelphia

With his offensive line and supporting cast healthy, Michael Vick returned from his Week 7 bye looking like the most confident football player in the league. Before taking the pedal off the gas in the final two quarters of Week 8, Vick doused the Cowboys with 187 first-half yards and two touchdowns on 13-of-17 passing, along with 45 yards rushing. For the season's final nine games, there isn't a quarterback I'd rather own in fantasy football. Chicago ranks 28th against the pass and is tied for 27th in sacks, so this is a favorable matchup for Vick at home. ... The Bears' Cover-2 defense is designed to contain deep threats like DeSean Jackson, although he's racked up more than 100 all-purpose yards in 2-of-3 career meetings with Chicago, to go with two scores. While D-Jax is arguably the NFL's most boom-or-bust fantasy receiver, his week-to-week ceiling makes him impossible to bench. ... Easily the most consistent wideout on the Eagles, Jeremy Maclin is the No. 11 overall receiver in fantasy points per game. Maclin also leads Philly in targets on the season, suggesting he's quietly overtaken Jackson as Vick's No. 1 option in the passing game.

Fantasy owners should have trouble trusting Brent Celek as a fantasy starter despite back-to-back productive games (4-42-1, 7-94-1). It's an issue of middling talent with Celek, and he's only the fourth or fifth option in Philadelphia's aggressive passing attack. If there is a team against which Celek can stay hot for another week, however, it's probably the Bears. Chicago's zone defense has been burned for productive games by Jermichael Finley (7-85-3), Greg Olsen (5-50-1), Brandon Pettigrew (4-39-1), Jimmy Graham (6-79), and Tony Gonzalez (5-72) at the tight end position, giving up lots of cushion over the middle. ... The Eagles lead the NFC in time of possession, a stat that benefits LeSean McCoy more than any player. Usually pass-happy coach Andy Reid's offense is as balanced as it's ever been. Whereas Philly ran the football on only 43.3% of its plays last year, the percentage has jumped to 47.1 this year, and the Eagles rank fourth in the NFL in rushing attempts. The No. 2-ranked running back in fantasy, McCoy is on pace for career highs in carries (309), rushing yards (1,724), all-purpose touchdowns (23), and yards per rushing attempt (5.59). And barring injury, McCoy is playing too well for those numbers to sharply regress. ... Slot receiver Jason Avant had eight catches for 83 yards in the Eagles' 2010 matchup with the Bears. Avant lacks playmaking ability and hasn't scored a touchdown on the year, but could be good for 4-6 catches on Monday night, even if they only go for 45-60 yards. It's not terrible PPR production.

The Eagles' defense has flashed competitiveness against the run by stiffening its Wide-9 scheme in the front four. It still got touched up for an 8.5 yards-per-carry average by Cowboys rushers last week, and Matt Forte has confirmed himself matchup proof with at least 120 yards in previous 2011 clashes with the top-seven run defenses of Atlanta and Minnesota. In terms of YPC allowed, the Eagles have the fifth-worst defense in football. Forte will continue to be his offense's centerpiece on Monday night. ... The Bears seemed to remedy their pass protection problems before the Week 8 bye, but they'll be put to a major test at The Linc. Philadelphia entered Week 9 ranked sixth in the league in sacks, and Nnamdi Asomugha has picked it up since a slow start. The Eagles essentially took Dez Bryant (3-28) and Miles Austin (3-27) out of last week's game with physical press coverage and an attacking mentality up front. On paper at least, this is a mismatch for the Bears' passing offense. Jay Cutler is a QB2 against Philly's top-ten pass defense, and Roy Williams is unlikely to create separation with Asomugha in his face at the line. Devin Hester and Earl Bennett remain uninspiring week-to-week options. Bennett's return from a chest injury will render Dane Sanzenbacher a fourth receiver. Johnny Knox is now in a rotation with Williams.

Score Prediction: Eagles 34, Bears 13

HacheMan · Nov 8, 2011

DeSean the Decoy

After every game, the Eagles seem to have excuses for why DeSean Jackson was held in check. More of than not, it comes back to: The (insert team name here) had their safeties back 30 yards so we couldn’t get anything deep the DeSean.

Oh, so teams don’t play off Mike Wallace? They don’t give Steve Smith or Greg Jennings or Calvin Johnson tons of room? The problem with Jackson isn’t the defense. It’s that, unlike the previously listed elite wideouts, D-Jax is a one-trick pony. Jackson doesn’t like to go over the middle, sporting alligator arms as we saw Monday night. He goes down easily upon contact. He has questionable hands. And when the Eagles need a critical play, they smartly go to Jeremy Maclin or Jason Avant.

So on most days, Jackson is just a decoy. He’s a guy that runs really fast and straight. Perhaps that’s why the Eagles have not given him the contract extension he so desires. And it’s why he has these numbers over his last 16 games (including playoffs): 52 catches, 1,102 yards, four touchdowns. That’s an average of 3.2 catches for 68.8 yards and 0.25 touchdowns per game.

With a sample size this large, it’s unrealistic to expect a change. The one or two big games per year don’t outweigh the airballs Jackson throws up for owners.

BEARS at EAGLES RANDOM THOUGHTS
Big-time return to action for Earl Bennett. He steps right in as Jay Cutler’s favorite target. But before we run to the wire, remember Bennett had just 561 receiving yards all of last season. He’s nothing special. … Devin Hester sustained an ankle injury in the fourth quarter and did not return. … Matt Forte and LeSean McCoy were as advertised. They never get tackled by the first guy. … Michael Vick appears hesitant to run for some strange reason. The Eagles have to change that. … Brent Celek tied for the team-lead in targets with nine and caught seven more balls. He’s being used as a pass-catcher now that the Birds’ offensive line is performing. … Marion Barber remains the Bears’ preferred option at the goal-line and in short-yardage.

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
The first bad sign came when Jahvid Best (concussion) revealed he had not been medically cleared as of Saturday. The next bad sign was when the Lions brought back old friend Kevin Smith. And the nail in the coffin was when ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported that Best is not expected to play against the Bears Sunday.

It’s hard to shake the feeling that Best is considering shutting it down for the season. He’ll visit with more doctors this week, but it’s been a three-plus weeks since his concussion. Most players are back by then. But most players don’t have the concussion history like Best has.

So look for Maurice Morris to remain the feature back going forward, with Keiland Williams as the power back and Smith as mere insurance. Remember, Smith had been on the street all summer without a sniff of interest around the league. His knee and shoulder injuries turned him into a shell of himself. All Best owners can do is stash and wait for definitive word.

NEWS OF THE DAY #2
Does Miles Austin stretch? He’s sidelined by a hamstring strain once again, this time on his right side. He’ll miss 2-4 weeks.

The upshot here is a big chance for Laurent Robinson, who has shown impressive chemistry with Tony Romo in limited time as a Cowboy. Over the last six games, Robinson has averaged 4.0 catches for 61.3 yards with two touchdowns. Now he gets a snap and target boost. Add him.

NEWS OF THE DAY #3
The Raiders say that they didn’t bench Darrius Heyward-Bey in Sunday’s loss to the Broncos. The tape says otherwise. As Oakland came out of their bye, Jacoby Ford and Denarius Moore were their starting wideouts. Chaz Schilens and T.J. Houshmandzadeh were next up off the bench. DHB played 12 snaps. It’s a strange move as Heyward-Bey was playing the best ball of his career, but it’s probably the right move. Ford and Moore are explosive weapons and worth adds in fantasy.

INJURY QUICK SLANTS
Darren McFadden (foot) appears unlikely to make his return against the Chargers Thursday…. Malcom Floyd (hip) did not return to practice Monday, while Ryan Mathews (groin) did. Adjust accordingly. … Rian Lindell (shoulder) is out 4-6 weeks. … Jared Cook (knee) and Nate Washington (hip) are expected to be fine for Week 10. … Andre Johnson (hamstring) is likely to sit out through the Week 11 bye. … Shonn Greene and Dustin Keller had concussion scares, but have been cleared. … Kevin Kolb (toe, foot) is in serious doubt once again. … Greg Salas (leg) is done for the season. … Ahmad Bradshaw (foot) is tentatively expected back soon. … Frank Gore’s ankle sprain is not a major concern. … Both Peyton Hillis (hamstring) and Montario Hardesty (calf) have been ruled out for Week 10. … Dallas Clark (leg) may be done for the year.

DEPTH CHART QUICK SLANTS
Coach Jason Garrett reiterated that he sees a timeshare when Felix Jones (ankle) returns. It’s unclear when that will be. … Kevin Boss played behind Brandon Myers in Week 9. … Leonard Hankerson will continue to start and play almost every down. … The Cardinals have no intention of resting Beanie Wells despite knee woes. … Greg Little had two drops and ran the wrong route on a key play in Week 9. He’s struggling. … Danny Woodhead led the Patriots backfield in snaps Sunday with 42. … With Donald Jones healthy, C.J. Spiller’s time at wideout is over. … Curtis Painter and John Beck will keep their starting jobs in Week 10.

Editor’s Note: Sick of your team yet? 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. DOLPHINS vs. Redskins - Yeah, Miami is 1-7. But they are have also given up an average of just 13.6 points over the last three weeks. Washington has scored a total of 11 points in their last two games as they’ve lost both Santana Moss (hand) and Tim Hightower (knee).

2. EAGLES vs. Cardinals - Philadelphia’s defense has been far less than advertised, but gets a great spot here. Arizona is off an emotional overtime win and now has to come across the country to face a secondary that will have no problem shutting down this passing game. And with Beanie Wells as less than 100 percent, points for Arizona will be hard to come by.

3. CHIEFS vs. Broncos - As good as Tim Tebow looked in Week 9, he’s still a good bet for a turnover or two per game. Kansas City will be hungry and focused after getting embarrassed by Miami last week.

HacheMan · Nov 8, 2011

Hello, Helu!

Confession: I've been waiting to use this headline since Week 1.

After breaking the franchise record of 13 receptions shared by Hall of Famer Art Monk and Kelvin Bryant, Redskins rookie Roy Helu remains unowned in more than half of CBSSports.com fantasy leagues. It’s hard to believe Rotoworld readers are sleeping on Helu, as he was promoted relentlessly by Evan Silva throughout the NFL and fantasy draft processes. He had also been a recommended waiver addition in this space for three consecutive weeks (and five overall) heading into his Week 9 breakout game.

Considered an ideal fit for coach Mike Shanahan’s zone-blocking scheme coming out of Nebraska, Helu dominated the NFL combine with a 4.40 forty and an eye-popping 1.50 10-yard split. Post-draft, Shanahan immediately compared Helu to an early-career Clinton Portis for his physicality and ability to go the distance if given a crease.

Once again citing the rookie’s “speed to make big plays,” Shanahan inserted Helu into the starting lineup against the 49ers shutdown defense and left him out there for 64-of-67 offensive snaps. Helu was a one-man show in Week 9, accounting for more than half of the team’s yardage while playing all three downs.

Shanahan’s latest backfield edict is that Ryan Torain will only see the field when Helu needs a breather. That’s subject to change with the whims of Shanny’s shenanigans, but Helu is ready to take the starting job and run with it. Even in a regressing offense, there’s plenty of fantasy upside the rest of the way -- particularly in PPR formats.

For those owners who miss out on Helu, Cowboys receiver Laurent Robinson makes a fine consolation prize as a solid WR2/3 option over the next few weeks.

On to the players. Here is how I rank the top players at each position as we head into Week 10. 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.

Quarterbacks
Carson Palmer
Sam Bradford
Matt Cassel
Christian Ponder
Matt Moore

Running Backs
Roy Helu
Donald Brown
Chris Ivory
Chris Ogbonnaya
Marion Barber
Joe McKnight
C.J. Spiller
Toby Gerhart

Wide Receivers
Laurent Robinson
Jacoby Ford
Denarius Moore
Steve Breaston
Early Doucet
Santana Moss
Earl Bennett
Austin Pettis
Leonard Hankerson

Tight Ends
Heath Miller
Brent Celek
Visanthe Shiancoe
Jacob Tamme

Defense/Special Teams
Dolphins
Eagles
Jaguars

Quarterbacks

Carson Palmer, Raiders - It’s hardly a surprise that Palmer’s decision-making and accuracy have been issues as he shakes off the rust in his first two games of the season. There are plenty of reasons for optimism, though, after a 332-yard, three-touchdown performance in Week 9. Palmer’s arm looks stronger than the 2010 version, and the Raiders are getting explosive talents Jacoby Ford and Denarius Moore involved just in time for a slate of plus matchups against the Chargers, Vikings, Bears, Dolphins and Packers. With offensive focal point Darren McFadden out again, Palmer may be asked to throw more again Thursday night.

Recommendation: Should be owned in 12-team leagues.

Sam Bradford, Rams - I’m not going to hold last week’s performance versus Arizona against Bradford after he beat his recovery timetable on a high-ankle sprain. Bradford won’t be recommended against a strong Cleveland pass defense this week, but there are plus matchups against the Seahawks and Cardinals in Weeks 11 and 12. I still expect Bradford’s production to spike with Brandon Lloyd making plays down the field.

Recommendation: Should be owned in 12-team leagues.

Matt Cassel, Chiefs - Cassel took a step back against the Dolphins, showing poor pocket presence while failing to lead a touchdown drive. Week 10 represents a fine bounce-back opportunity against a Broncos defense that has allowed the most fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks -- including 332 yards and three touchdowns to a rusty Carson Palmer last week.

Recommendation: Worth a look as a matchup play.

Christian Ponder, Vikings - Ponder was a recommended add in 12- and 14-team leagues heading into the bye week. This is a reminder that he posted a more than respectable 22 fantasy points against the Packers in Week 7, and he gets a healthy Percy Harvin back for the rematch. Green Bay is surrendering the third-most fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks after a big game from Philip Rivers in Week 9.

Recommendation: Should be owned in 14-team leagues.

Matt Moore, Dolphins - Moore was the one quarterback to top Aaron Rodgers’ 146.5 passer rating as fantasy’s No. 3 quarterback for Week 9. While Moore can’t be recommended as a weekly option in any format by two-quarterback leagues, it’s worth noting that he’s incrementally increased his fantasy output in each of the past five games.

Recommendation: Worth a look in two-quarterback leagues.

Watch List: Vince Young, Matt Flynn, Shaun Hill, Rex Grossman

Young, Flynn and Hill are the three backups with the highest upside should the starter go down with an injury. … Beck’s poor play could force the Shanahan’s to revisit Grossman.

Hold Off: John Skelton

Skelton’s spot start was more of a catastrophe than the numbers suggest. He will never be ranked as a top-30 fantasy starter in a given week.

Cut Bait: Andy Dalton, Tarvaris Jackson, John Beck, Curtis Painter

Dalton is playing well, but he can dropped in 12- and 14-team leagues due to matchups against top-five pass defenses in each of the next four games. … With a matchup against the Ravens looming, T-Jack can also be dropped in 12- and 14-team leagues. … Beck and Painter have reached the stage of wretchedness where we can no longer expect them to avoid the hangman for four quarters.

Running Backs

Roy Helu, Redskins - Coach Mike Shanahan named Helu the starter Sunday morning, and the rookie responded with 14 receptions and 146 total yards due in large part to John Beck’s checkdown tendencies. The newest Shanny backfield edict is that Ryan Torain will only play when Helu needs a breather. Helu played on 64-of-67 snaps against the 49ers, suggesting that he will join the ranks of the three-down backs going forward. Even in a subpar offense, there’s plenty of breakout potential here over the final two months.

Recommendation: Should be owned in all leagues.

Donald Brown, Colts - Coach Jim Caldwell confirmed that Delone Carter landed in fumble jail after coughing up his second carry against the Falcons. Playing as well as he has since entering the league as a busted first-round pick, Brown took over as the featured back in comeback mode. The workloads in this backfield are unpredictable due in large part to Joseph Addai’s (knee, hamstring) uncertain week-to-week status. Brown is worthy of a stash to see if the Colts can recoup some value on this investment down the stretch of a lost season, but he can’t be trusted as a weekly fantasy option just yet.

Recommendation: Worth a look in 12-team leagues.

Chris Ivory, Saints - Mark Ingram’s injury replacement got the nod as the Week 9 starter, leading the backfield with 67 rushing yards and 15 carries. Ivory has no role in the passing game, so he’s not going to be ranked higher than Darren Sproles or Pierre Thomas even if Ingram misses another week. Between his talent and the Saints’ high-scoring offense, Ivory is worthy of a stash for as long as Ingram sits out.

Recommendation: Worth a look in 12-team leagues.

Chris Ogbonnaya, Browns - Filling in as the starter last week, “Silent G” fumbled his first carry, failed to make tacklers miss and managed a paltry 2.2 yards on 13 carries. In other words, keep expectations low even though Peyton Hillis and Montario Hardesty have already been ruled out of an attractive matchup against the Rams. It’s quite possible that Thomas Clayton could end up with more touches than Ogbonnaya.

Recommendation: Worth a look as a desperation spot start.

Marion Barber, Bears - Monday night’s game proved once again that Marion the Barbarian is entrenched as the Bears’ goal-line back. He’s now scored in four of the five games he’s been active this season, which certainly earns him a long look in touchdown-heavy leagues. Those in standard-scoring leagues should feel no obligation to add Barber.

Recommendation: Worth a look in touchdown-heavy leagues.

Joe McKnight, Jets - The Jets coaching staff has promised increased offensive workloads for McKnight all season, and they finally followed through with a season-high nine carries against the Bills. McKnight isn’t going to hold fantasy value barring a Shonn Greene injury or extended slump, so he’s purely a deep-league pickup.

Recommendation: Worth a look in deeper leagues.

C.J. Spiller, Bills - Spiller is returning to the backfield now that Donald Jones is healthy. The 2010 first-rounder is not going to have value unless Fred Jackson goes down with an injury, but there’s breakout potential in that scenario.

Recommendation: Worth a look as injury insurance.

Toby Gerhart, Vikings - Much like Ricky Williams and Kendall Hunter, Gerhart should be added as an obvious handcuff for a stud starter. Only four more teams have byes (in Week 11), so it’s time to add that injury insurance before another owners swoops in and starts stashing high-upside backups.

Recommendation: Worth a look as injury insurance.

Watch List: Thomas Clayton, Kevin Smith, Jacquizz Rodgers, Taiwan Jones

As poorly as Ogbonnaya has played, Clayton is worth monitoring in case the Browns decide to increase his workload this week. … Smith is expected to play behind Maurice Morris and Keiland Williams. … Rodgers’ increased workload was due to the Falcons’ jumping out to a commanding lead. … Jones didn’t see enough touches in Week 9

Hold Off: Tashard Choice, Danny Woodhead

Choice is expected to practice this week. Any Shanahan running back is worth monitoring, but he’s going to start out third on the depth chart. The real issue is that Choice is no longer a good player. … Woodhead’s snaps could go down again with Kevin Faulk due to return in Week 10.

Cut Bait: Curtis Brinkley, D.J. Ware, Da’Rel Scott, Lance Ball, Phillip Tanner, Thomas Jones

Brinkley, Ware, Scott, Ball and Tanner are heading back to the bench now that Ryan Mathews, Ahmad Bradshaw and Felix Jones are getting healthier. … Jones played just four snaps in Week 9.

Wide Receivers

Laurent Robinson, Cowboys - A fine fallback option for those owners losing out on Roy Helu, Robinson will step into the starting lineup once again for Miles Austin. Returning to his promising early-career form, the brittle but talented Robinson has cleared 100 yards in two of the past five games -- the first two 100-yard performances of his career. Robinson clearly has the trust of his quarterback, and Romo showed a willingness to stand in the pocket and make throws down the field last week. Robinson has the look of an every-week starter for the next three weeks against the Bills, Redskins and Dolphins -- all of which rank in the bottom half of the league against opposing wide receivers.

Recommendation: Should be owned in all leagues.

Jacoby Ford, Raiders - Coach Hue Jackson won’t explain why Ford and Denarius Moore displaced Darrius Heyward-Bey coming out of the bye week. I can only surmise that Carson Palmer had better immediate chemistry with Ford and Moore than he did with DHB. Ford started against the Broncos while racking up 105 yards and a touchdown on five catches in an ascending passing offense. With Darren McFadden expected to sit again in Week 10, Ford is back on the radar as a WR3 option Thursday night.

Recommendation: Worth a look in 12-team leagues.

Denarius Moore, Raiders - The Oakland coaching staff ostensibly worked on getting the talented Moore and Jacoby Ford more involved in the offense during the bye week, the results were telling. Moore was all over the field with 12 targets and four punt returns against the Broncos. We can’t say with any degree of certainty how the receiving corps will shake out in Week 10, but Moore has plenty of upside if that Week 9 role carries over.

Recommendation: Worth a look in 12-team leagues.

Steve Breaston, Chiefs - Dropped in quite a few leagues after Jonathan Baldwin’s Week 8 breakout, Breaston is now owned in less than 50 percent of CBSSports.com leagues. He’s coming off his best game of the year with a team-high 11 targets, seven receptions and 115 yards. While never a good bet to find the end zone, Breaston has 50 or more yards in six of his past seven games. Week 10 brings a plus matchup against a Denver secondary that has struggled against No. 2 receivers.

Recommendation: Should be owned in 12-team leagues.

Early Doucet, Cardinals - Feasting off the single coverage provided by Larry Fitzgerald’s presence, Doucet continues to produce as an under-the-radar top-30 fantasy receiver. More consistent than expected, Doucet has topped 50 yards or found the end zone in 6-of-8 games this year. The upside is low, but Doucet is worth a look as a WR3 in PPR formats.

Recommendation: Should be owned in PPR leagues.

Santana Moss, Redskins - The Redskins’ No. 1 receiver is entering the third week of a 5-7 week recovery timetable on his broken left hand. With bye weeks winding down, he should be owned in more than 50 percent of CBSSports.com leagues. Stash him at the end of your roster if he was dumped.

Recommendation: Should be stashed in 12-team leagues.

Earl Bennett, Bears - After missing the majority of the first half with a chest injury, Bennett immediately returned as Jay Cutler’s security blanket and Chicago’s most effective receiver versus the Eagles. Even if he is as reliable as a Bears receiver gets at this point, just keep in mind that Bennett has never been much of a fantasy asset. I wouldn’t bother with him outside of PPR formats.

Recommendation: Worth a look in PPR leagues.

Austin Pettis, Rams - The Rams have now lost Danny Amendola and Greg Salas for the season, leaving Pettis as the default starter in the slot for Week 10 against the Browns. Mark Clayton (Achilles, knee) is expected to be activated from the PUP list this week, and he could end up battling for snaps inside as well. Pickup Pettis in PPR formats, but keep an eye on Clayton.

Recommendation: Worth a look in PPR leagues.

Leonard Hankerson, Redskins - We advised last week that Hankerson’s role was due to increase, and he ended up being named a starter by Sunday morning. Better yet, the third-round rookie led all Redskins receivers by playing in 63-of-64 offensive snaps. Don’t expect much in a declining offense, but Hankerson has talent worthy of a stash in deeper leagues.

Recommendation: Worth a look in deeper leagues.

Watch List: Mark Clayton, Danario Alexander, Vincent Brown, T.J. Houshmandzadeh, Josh Cribbs, Chad Ochocinco, Taylor Price, Jerricho Cotchery, Damian Williams, Titus Young, Brandon LaFell

Clayton and Alexander are in a race to see which injury-prone receiver can rejoin the lineup the fastest. … Brown is an intriguing Dynasty league stash, but unlikely to possess much redraft value as the third or fourth option in San Diego. … Housh could end up with PPR value down the stretch. … The Pats need Ocho or Price to start pushing a slow Deion Branch. … Cribbs has been more involved offensively with 50 yards and a score in each of the past two games. I need to see him do it in a third before recommending a pickup. … There’s a small chance Young and LaFell will earn promotions coming out of the bye week.

Hold Off: Jerome Simpson, Lavelle Hawkins

Simpson’s production is not only incredibly inconsistent, he also has brutal matchups on the horizon against the other three AFC North squads. … Hawkins is just the third receiver in Nashville.

Cut Bait: Demaryius Thomas, Jacoby Jones, Kevin Walter, Ben Obomanu, Robert Meachem, Arrelious Benn, Greg Salas, Davone Bess

The Texans are now a running team, leaving Walter and Jones without reliable value no matter Andre Johnson’s status. … Obomanu’s Week 8 production was a fluke. … Benn is simply unreliable. … Bess played just nine snaps in Week 9.

Tight Ends

Heath Miller, Steelers - A fantasy afterthought as an extra blocker early in the season, Miller has regained relevance since Max Starks returned to solidify the offense line. Miller is fantasy’s No. 2 tight end over the past five weeks and the No. 3 tight end over the past three. A 73-yard performance against the shut-down Ravens defense bodes well for Miller’s production regardless of matchup going forward.

Recommendation: Should be owned in 12-team leagues.

Brent Celek, Eagles - The good news is that Celek has drawn exactly nine targets in three consecutive games. The bad news is that the Eagles have been taking advantage of matchups against teams that don’t defend tight ends well. Though Celek has been a top-10 fantasy tight end over the past three weeks, the matchups aren’t nearly as friendly over the next month.

Recommendation: Worth a look in deeper leagues.

Visanthe Shiancoe, Vikings - The Packers allow the fifth-most fantasy points to opposing tight ends, and Shiancoe managed a 4/45/1 line against them three weeks ago on a season-high eight targets. He’s a borderline top-15 option for Week 10.

Recommendation: Worth a look as a matchup play.

Jacob Tamme, Colts - A hot waiver pickup at mid-season last year, Tamme averaged nearly seven catches and 65 yards down the stretch with Peyton Manning. Dallas Clark, a superior player, was averaging just three catches and 32 yards with Curtis Painter this year. The math tells us Tamme won’t be good for more than 25-30 yards per week as long as Clark is out. Don’t waste a roster spot.

Recommendation: Worth a look only in deeper leagues.

Watch List: Jared Cook, Dennis Pitta, Kyle Rudolph

Cook has only topped three catches in a game twice this season, but his targets are climbing steadily. … Worth a look in deeper leagues, Pitta has 16 targets, 11 catches and 99 yards over the past two games. … Keep an eye on Rudolph to see if the second-rounder has earned a bigger role coming out of the bye week.

Hold Off: Anthony Fasano

Pay no mind to Fasano’s two-touchdown performance in Week 9. He's averaged just over one reception per game this year.

Cut Bait: Evan Moore, Kevin Boss, Zach Miller, Lance Kendricks, Donald Lee

Moore and Boss aren’t playing starter’s snaps. … Miller took a back seat to Anthony McCoy in Week 9. … An unproductive Kendricks is now nursing a foot injury. … Lee should head back to the bench with Jermaine Gresham returning to practice this week.

Defense/Special Teams

Dolphins - As Adam Levitan pointed out in Monday’s Daily Dose, Miami is allowing just 13.6 points over the past three games while the Redskins have managed a total of 11 in their last two outings. The Dolphins defense is starting to play up to its talent level.

Jaguars - Jacksonville quietly boasts a top-eight NFL defense heading into a matchup against Indy’s 30th-ranked offense. The Colts have multiple turnovers in four consecutive games, and a regressing Curtis Painter has led the offense to less than a touchdown per game over the past three.

Eagles - This defense failed to record a sack Monday night, but the Week 10 matchup is setting up perfectly with Kevin Kolb’s status in doubt. The Cardinals fly to the east coast with a quarterback possessing an Orlovskyan sense of his own end zone and a feature back on a bum wheel. The Eagles should have little trouble shutting down this offense

HacheMan · Nov 8, 2011

Free-agent finds: Week 10

By Christopher Harris
ESPN.com

thought it would be fun to go back to look at my preseason ranks, and find the players who've caused the most fantasy consternation so far this season. (And I mean "fun" in the same sense that having a stye in one's eye is "awesome.") I'm not talking about Jamaal Charles or Peyton Manning, whose downfalls are health-related. I'm talking about players who've crushed you with bad on-field performance, and thus sent you time and time again back to the waiver wire, in desperate hope of finding a lightning-in-a-bottle replacement.

<TABLE><THEAD><TR><TH>Quarterbacks </TH><TH>My Preseason Rank </TH><TH>Current Positional Rank </TH></TR></THEAD><TBODY><TR class=last><TD>Aaron Rodgers </TD><TD>1 </TD><TD>1 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Drew Brees </TD><TD>2 </TD><TD>2 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Tom Brady </TD><TD>3 </TD><TD>4 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Philip Rivers </TD><TD>4 </TD><TD>11 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Michael Vick </TD><TD>5 </TD><TD>6 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Peyton Manning </TD><TD>6 </TD><TD>NR </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Tony Romo </TD><TD>7 </TD><TD>10 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Matt Schaub </TD><TD>8 </TD><TD>9 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Ben Roethlisberger </TD><TD>9 </TD><TD>8 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Josh Freeman </TD><TD>10 </TD><TD>16 </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

Yes, Rivers has been disappointing, and just posted his first game of more than 18 fantasy points in Week 9. But let's not forget the hopes we had for Freeman before the year started. Remember that 25-to-6 TD/INT ratio from 2010? How does 8-to-10 sound so far for '11? I maintained that Freeman is too good a runner not to score any rushing TDs for a full season (as he did last year). That's proved correct, as Freeman has run for a couple of scores. But he's been awful with his arm, and frankly is a candidate for release in standard ESPN.com leagues.

<TABLE><THEAD><TR><TH>Running Backs </TH><TH>My Preseason Rank </TH><TH>Current Positional Rank </TH></TR></THEAD><TBODY><TR class=last><TD>Adrian Peterson </TD><TD>1 </TD><TD>3 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Arian Foster </TD><TD>2 </TD><TD>6 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Chris Johnson </TD><TD>3 </TD><TD>31 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Jamaal Charles </TD><TD>4 </TD><TD>79 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Ray Rice </TD><TD>5 </TD><TD>4 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>LeSean McCoy </TD><TD>6 </TD><TD>1 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Maurice Jones-Drew </TD><TD>7 </TD><TD>15 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Frank Gore </TD><TD>8 </TD><TD>9 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Rashard Mendenhall </TD><TD>9 </TD><TD>21 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Darren McFadden </TD><TD>10 </TD><TD>10 </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

Enough has been written about CJ0K's struggles to fill the Library of Congress, but Mendenhall has been pretty bad, too. He scored Sunday night, but now he's got three TDs from inside an opponent's 3, after registering nine such regular-season scores last year (and three more in the playoffs). And MJD's yards are lovely, but he's held captive by his quarterback (and not the balky knee which we feared at the season's outset).

<TABLE><THEAD><TR><TH>Wide Receivers </TH><TH>My Preseason Rank </TH><TH>Current Positional Rank </TH></TR></THEAD><TBODY><TR class=last><TD>Andre Johnson </TD><TD>1 </TD><TD>47 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Calvin Johnson </TD><TD>2 </TD><TD>1 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Larry Fitzgerald </TD><TD>3 </TD><TD>11 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Greg Jennings </TD><TD>4 </TD><TD>5 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Hakeem Nicks </TD><TD>5 </TD><TD>16 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Roddy White </TD><TD>6 </TD><TD>19 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Mike Wallace </TD><TD>7 </TD><TD>3 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Vincent Jackson </TD><TD>8 </TD><TD>6 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>DeSean Jackson </TD><TD>9 </TD><TD>27 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Dez Bryant </TD><TD>10 </TD><TD>20 </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

We forget that AJ was a big injury problem his first couple of years in the league, but that obviously explains his issues here. The real stinker on this list is DeSean Jackson. I vociferously argued for him over Jeremy Maclin back in May, and that's turned out just wrong. All Jackson does is run downfield with his hand up. His alligator arms over the middle killed a decisive Eagles drive late Monday night. He deserves a big downgrade.

<TABLE><THEAD><TR><TH>Tight Ends </TH><TH>My Preseason Rank </TH><TH>Current Positional Rank </TH></TR></THEAD><TBODY><TR class=last><TD>Antonio Gates </TD><TD>1 </TD><TD>16 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Dallas Clark </TD><TD>2 </TD><TD>23 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Jermichael Finley </TD><TD>3 </TD><TD>6 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Vernon Davis </TD><TD>4 </TD><TD>14 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Jason Witten </TD><TD>5 </TD><TD>3 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Owen Daniels </TD><TD>6 </TD><TD>7 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Marcedes Lewis </TD><TD>7 </TD><TD>41 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Kellen Winslow </TD><TD>8 </TD><TD>17 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Greg Olsen </TD><TD>9 </TD><TD>8 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Jimmy Graham </TD><TD>10 </TD><TD>1 </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

Dallas Clark is forgiven. Antonio Gates' foot is hurt, so he's forgiven. But Vernon Davis is borderline benchable now, and Marcedes Lewis (who's still owned in more than half of ESPN.com leagues) should be dropped immediately. Many foresaw a downgrade from Lewis' 2010 season because it was so TD-heavy, but really, it isn't even that. It's David Garrard's exile, followed by Lewis' becoming nearly a full-time blocker. www.rapsports.com

<TABLE><THEAD><TR><TH>Defense/Special Teams </TH><TH>My Preseason Rank </TH><TH>Current Positional Rank </TH></TR></THEAD><TBODY><TR class=last><TD>Green Bay Packers </TD><TD>1 </TD><TD>8 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Pittsburgh Steelers </TD><TD>2 </TD><TD>12 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>New York Jets </TD><TD>3 </TD><TD>2 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Philadelphia Eagles </TD><TD>4 </TD><TD>10 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Baltimore Ravens </TD><TD>5 </TD><TD>1 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Chicago Bears </TD><TD>6 </TD><TD>7 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>New Orleans Saints </TD><TD>7 </TD><TD>11 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Atlanta Falcons </TD><TD>8 </TD><TD>13 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>New England Patriots </TD><TD>9 </TD><TD>31 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>San Diego Chargers </TD><TD>10 </TD><TD>17 </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

This isn't as pathetic as I expected. But et tu, Patriots D?

Standard ESPN league finds

Roy Helu, RB, Washington Redskins (owned in 16.0 percent of ESPN.com leagues): Because he's the first player to be mentioned three times in the "standard league" portion of "Free-Agent Finds" this year, Helu gets a "Helloooo!" from fantasy nation. Adding him isn't pure speculation any longer, as Mike Shanahan handed him the Week 9 starting job and Helu played well: 10 carries for 41 yards and 14 catches for 105 yards from Checkdown Charlie himself, John Beck. For sure, Helu should be added now in all leagues. However, let's not forget who we're dealing with here. Shanny's RB preferences are, shall we say, peripatetic. Remember that Tashard Choice (1.7 percent) could get his hamstring healthy in time for this week's game against the Dolphins, and who'd be surprised if suddenly he was "the man"? And Ryan Torain (83.5 percent) is a tempting drop if you're in need of a roster spot, but Shanny can be so flighty, we can't even rule out a late-season return to glory for Torain.

Laurent Robinson, WR, Dallas Cowboys (2.2 percent): Miles Austin injured his other hamstring Sunday, not the one that kept him out during the preseason or that he reinjured during the 49ers game. Current estimates have Austin sitting between two and four games, which is a fantasy crusher, indeed. The prime beneficiary figures to be Dez Bryant, who always seems this close to a breakout, but Robinson is worth a look as well. As the Cowboys' No. 3 receiver the past four weeks, Robinson has 14 grabs for 203 yards and two scores (which have come in the past two games). It's reductive thinking to assume that Robinson instantly becomes the only man Dallas uses alongside Bryant in two-receiver sets; you could very well see some Kevin Ogletree (0.3 percent) as well. But yes, you'd have to imagine that Robinson will see an uptick in targets.

Jacoby Ford, WR, Oakland Raiders (36.4 percent): Nobody is quite sure what's going on with that Raiders' receiving corps. What happened to Darrius Heyward-Bey (67.8 percent), who'd submitted four terrific outings in a row? Suddenly he's the fifth-stringer? Perhaps things have come full circle, as Ford was everyone's favorite Oakland wideout back in August, and he managed five grabs for 105 yards and a pretty score versus the Broncos on Sunday. This story isn't completely written yet, and either DHB will return after a one-game "disciplinary" usage, or the Raiders are going to be a bit random in their receiving corps going forward. Thanks to Carson Palmer, there's value to be found here if the team settles on one or two guys. Ford is one of the fastest players in the league, and would be valuable if his usage becomes consistent.

Chris Ivory, RB, New Orleans Saints (0.4 percent): I wrote about Ivory as a deep-league option last week, but he may deserve an upgrade. Mark Ingram's foot injury continues to keep him out, and as a result, Ivory looks like Sean Payton's preferred early-down rushing option. Against the Buccaneers on Sunday, Ivory had 15 carries for 67 yards, compared to eight carries for Pierre Thomas and four for Darren Sproles. Now, Ivory obviously isn't the game-breaking talent that those other two guys are, and the Saints' backfield is always going to produce more frustration than fantasy glory, because it's just about always a three-headed monster. But while Ivory may not have wiggle in his game, he's a powerful dude who loves contact. Last year in limited action, you'll recall, he had four scores from inside an opponent's 6. He's nothing close to an every-week starter, but as a speculative add, you could do worse than Ivory.

Torrey Smith, WR, Baltimore Ravens (24.4 percent): Smith went from goat to hero Sunday night versus the Steelers. First he was called for a very shaky holding call on the Ravens' first play from scrimmage, negating a long Ray Rice TD. Much later, he couldn't quite extend to catch what would've been a game-winning bomb from Joe Flacco. But only a few plays after that, Baltimore went back to the well, and Smith fought off pass interference to make a nice catch in the end zone. It was his first score since that ridiculous three-TD day against the Rams back in Week 3, but Smith does have nine targets in each of the past two games. Because his looks tend to come pretty far down the field, this kind of usage pattern could lead to more strong fantasy games.

Earl Bennett, WR, Chicago Bears (1.0 percent): When the "Monday Night Football" crew began waxing rhapsodic about what a "go-to" receiver Bennett is for Jay Cutler, I made a face. Just another example of announcer hyperbole, I thought. And later in the night, Jaws and Gruden were proved absolutely right, as Cutler leaned on Bennett again and again in key situations. Now healthy after a serious chest injury, Bennett looks sure-handed and quick out of the slot, and is a pretty good bet to be near the lead for Bears targets many weeks going forward. (He caught all five of his looks Monday for 95 yards and a score.) You probably did see Bennett's best game of 2011 against the Eagles, but that doesn't mean he can't be worth something as a fill-in player, and decent PPR option.

Miami Dolphins defense (3.3 percent): Ugh. I had my first truly awful fill-in defense call of the season last week, when I endorsed the Raiders at home against Tim Tebow. A league-worst minus-4 fantasy points later, and all I can do is apologize and hope to do better in Week 10. I'll take the Dolphins, who are tied for a woeful 30th in fantasy points for the season, but who came up with a terrific effort against the Chiefs on Sunday: five sacks, three points allowed and 3.4 yards per carry allowed. The Redskins come to South Florida this week, and John Beck hasn't been a threat to put up big numbers. Top corner Vontae Davis will return from his one-game team suspension, which is good news, and Karlos Dansby & Co. haven't allowed an individual 100-yard rusher since Ben Tate back in Week 2.

Other acceptable bye substitutes, about whom I've written in previous weeks: Andy Dalton, QB, Cincinnati Bengals (23.7 percent); Carson Palmer, QB, Raiders (24.3 percent); Chris Ogbonnaya, RB, Cleveland Browns (15.9 percent); Kendall Hunter, RB, San Francisco 49ers (5.5 percent); Antonio Brown, WR, Pittsburgh Steelers (34.1 percent); Denarius Moore, WR, Raiders (27.3 percent); Jake Ballard, TE, New York Giants (27.4 percent); Heath Miller, TE, Steelers (42.2 percent); Brent Celek, TE, Philadelphia Eagles (15.4 percent).

Deeper-league finds

Marion Barber, RB, Bears (4.8 percent): You aren't getting significant yardage from Barber, but now America knows what Bears fans have known for a month: This is your goal-line option in Chicago. Matt Forte is a terrific player, but he seems to have a mental block against getting 1 yard when you really need it, and that's something at which Barber excelled throughout much of his Cowboys career. He has four TDs in his past five games, and three of them have come from inside the 3.

Early Doucet, WR, Arizona Cardinals (18.8 percent): The QB situation in the desert caps the upside of any Arizona wideout not named Larry Fitzgerald, but Doucet has quietly shed his "bust" label (he was a supposed "steal" as a third-round pick back in '08) and produced between seven and nine fantasy points in each of his past four games. He's also got 55 targets on the season, which isn't that far behind Fitz's 69, and which is well ahead of any other Cardinals pass-catcher. Sure, he benefits from single coverage, but we shouldn't hold that against him, right?

Leonard Hankerson, WR, Redskins (0.5 percent): Hankerson was my No. 3 rookie wideout early this spring by dint of where he landed; I figured that the collegiate TD maker was a decent bet to wind up a significant target in Shanahan's offense, because folks suspected that Santana Moss would be playing elsewhere. Well, Moss re-signed, Hankerson disappointed in training camp, and the University of Miami star fell off the fantasy radar screen. But now that the Redskins seem committed to a youth movement, Hankerson is back. He played just about every snap in his first game as a starter Sunday against the 49ers, and while he had only four grabs for 34 yards, he's reportedly going to continue starting. Jabar Gaffney is an unexciting talent, so there are plays to be made for Hankerson. Unfortunately, the QB situation in D.C. is still so dire that it's tough to view this situation as a valuable one.

Josh Cribbs, WR, Browns (2.3 percent). What can you say? Cribbs was overhyped at the beginning of last year as a possible threat at wide receiver, and then spent much of the year healing severely injured toes. But things seem to have come full circle in the Browns' arch-conservative offense, because as pretty much everyone else has failed (Mohamed Massaquoi is battling a concussion, Brian Robiskie was released, and Greg Little is busy making mistake after mistake), Cribbs has scored in back-to-back weeks. As long as Massaquoi is out, Cribbs will partake in two-receiver sets and there's no doubt in the world that he's a tough dude. Of course, no Cleveland target is likely to produce much fantasy glory. Cribbs is obviously best owned in leagues where you get credit for return yards.

Kevin Smith, RB, Detroit Lions (0.2 percent): The Lions signed Smith off the street this weekend, which isn't a good sign for Jahvid Best's near-term availability. (Adam Schefter has already reported that Best isn't likely to play in Week 10.) However, realize that this version of Smith isn't the same one who came out of Central Florida as the nation's leading rusher. He's been badly banged up in his three-year NFL career. Maurice Morris (10.3 percent) and Keiland Williams (0.6 percent) should go on carrying the mail for the Lions in Week 10, but neither of those guys is a particularly special player, so it wouldn't be shocking if Smith gets a look somewhere down the road.

Thomas Clayton, RB, Browns (0.0 percent): I mention Clayton only because Chris Ogbonnaya was so bad in his first career start Sunday. Clayton saw only three carries versus the Texans, and he's nobody's idea of a great solution to Peyton Hillis and Montario Hardesty both being unavailable in Week 10. Ogbonnaya probably will continue to start, but if Obie stinks once more, the Browns may have no choice but to try Clayton. He's a four-plus-year veteran who's been on four NFL teams but has all of 12 regular-season carries, but he's a warm body, right?

T.J. Houshmandzadeh, WR, Raiders. (3.4 percent): Please, say it isn't so. Carson Palmer evidently asked the Raiders to go sign his old buddy as a security blanket, and the painfully slow, way-past-his-prime Housh actually saw the field out of the slot quite a lot Sunday. His physical skills are mostly gone now, so if Housh performs well in any game going forward it'll be about his will and his connection with Palmer. I don't rule out the possibility that he gets maybe five targets per week, and scores a couple of times. It would be tough to see using him in any but the very deepest leagues, however.

Other acceptable bye substitutes for deep-leaguers, about whom I've written in previous weeks: Christian Ponder, QB, Minnesota Vikings (11.4 percent); John Skelton, QB, Cardinals (0.1 percent); Donald Brown, RB, Indianapolis Colts (2.2 percent); Kregg Lumpkin, RB, Tampa Bay Buccaneers (0.8 percent); Taiwan Jones, RB, Raiders (0.3 percent); Eddie Royal, WR, Denver Broncos (1.0 percent); Doug Baldwin, WR, Seattle Seahawks (19.6 percent); Damian Williams, WR, Tennessee Titans (1.1 percent).

HacheMan · Nov 8, 2011

2011 ranks: Injuries beginning to take a toll

Eric Karabell

It's time for the Week 10 edition of the "rest-of-season" rankings, as we update the major fantasy football positions and the top 100, giving you one man's opinion on which players will be more valuable the rest of the way. As always, these are not the Week 10 rankings; those will be posted on Wednesday and updated as the week progresses. And don't forget, for the next seven weeks, there will be Thursday football. Don't wait till Sunday mornings to handle your lineups (or trades!).

Enjoy the latest rankings, and best of luck in Week 10 and beyond! 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

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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">Aaron Rodgers </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>2 </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>2 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>3 </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>3 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>4 </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>4 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>5 </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>5 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>6 </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>6 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>7 </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>7 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>8 </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>9 </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>9 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>10 </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>11 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>11 </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>10 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>12 </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>13 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>13 </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>14 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>14 </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>12 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>15 </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>15 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>16 </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>16 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>17 </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>17 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>18 </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>19 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>19 </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>18 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>20 </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>20 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>21 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Carson Palmer </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Oak </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>25 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>22 </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>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>26 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>24 </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>22 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>25 </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>21 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>26 </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>24 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>27 </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>30 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>28 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Christian Ponder </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Min </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">Matt Moore </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Mia </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>31 </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>29 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>31 </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>28 </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">Shaun Hill </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Det </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>33 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>34 </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>34 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>35 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Charlie Whitehurst </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Sea </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">Kyle Orton </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Den </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>36 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>37 </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>37 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>38 </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>38 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>39 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Brady Quinn </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Den </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>39 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>40 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">John Skelton </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Ari </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NR </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

• Don't expect many changes at the top of the quarterback rankings moving forward (unless there's an unfortunate injury, of course). Perhaps Aaron Rodgers will have an off game one of these weeks, but don't bet on it. Rodgers has thrown two or more touchdown passes in every game; in his worst fantasy game this season, he still scored 21 fantasy points. Tom Brady hasn't even reached 21 fantasy points since Week 3! Tony Romo hasn't reached 22 fantasy points in a game all year. The top 10 remains the same except for San Diego Chargers interception king Philip Rivers moving up a spot from 11 and pushing Houston Texans handoff king Matt Schaub to 11. Rivers threw three more picks Sunday, but the four touchdowns and season-best 385 passing yards overcame it. Schaub threw for 119 yards, and has topped 300 passing yards only twice all season.
• While stud wide receiver Andre Johnson should return soon and help Schaub, it sure seems the Texans have changed their offensive philosophy, as Arian Foster and Ben Tate are skewering opposing defenses on the ground. It's possible both Matt Ryan and Tim Tebow pass Schaub in these rankings soon, and they could pass Rivers as well if he continues his pace for an incredible 28 interceptions. Who does he think he is, Jay Cutler? For the record, no quarterback has thrown as many as 28 interceptions in a season since Brett Favre in 2005. Before that, the last to do so was Peyton Manning as a rookie. Rivers isn't a rookie, and he's on a better pace for stats than Favre finished with in '05.
• In other quarterback news, rookie Andy Dalton just beat wily veteran Matt Hasselbeck, but the reason they switch in the top 20 was because Dalton has more upside. The Titans are 4-4. If things don't get better, Hasselbeck could be the 2011 version of Kyle Orton (from 2010), losing the starting role more because his team can't win and there's a rookie in waiting (Jake Locker) rather than performance-based. Be wary of trading for Hasselbeck.
• After the top 20, new Oakland Raiders leader Carson Palmer moves up some, even though he tossed another three interceptions. At least he threw for 332 yards and three scores. Colt McCoy and Alex Smith don't appear capable of this. Kevin Kolb sat out an enticing matchup with the St. Louis Rams, and might miss Week 10 as well. Don't everyone rush out to get backup John Skelton, though.
Top 60 Running Backs

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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">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">Arian Foster </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Hou </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>2 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>3 </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>3 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>4 </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>4 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>5 </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>5 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>6 </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>6 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>7 </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>8 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>8 </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>9 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>9 </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>7 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>10 </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>10 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>11 </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>11 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>12 </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>12 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>13 </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>18 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>14 </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>15 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>15 </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>13 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>16 </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>14 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>17 </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>17 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>18 </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>16 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>19 </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>21 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>20 </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>22 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>21 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">DeMarco Murray </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Dal </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>28 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>22 </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>19 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>23 </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>35 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>24 </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>33 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>25 </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>24 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>26 </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>25 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>27 </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>23 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>28 </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>20 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>29 </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>32 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>30 </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>41 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>31 </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>47 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>32 </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>29 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>33 </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>34 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>34 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Jackie Battle </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>KC </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>26 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>35 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Maurice Morris </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Det </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>37 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>36 </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>37 </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>30 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>38 </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>27 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>39 </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>45 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>40 </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>38 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>41 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Donald Brown </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Ind </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>46 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>42 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Javon Ringer </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>43 </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>52 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>44 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Delone Carter </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Ind </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>42 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>45 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Chris Ivory </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NO </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>59 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>46 </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>NR </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>47 </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>40 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>48 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Chris Ogbonnaya </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Cle </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">Joseph Addai </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Ind </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>44 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>50 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Tashard Choice </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Was </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">Ryan Torain </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Was </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>39 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>52 </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>49 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>53 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Lance Ball </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Den </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>51 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>54 </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>53 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>55 </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>55 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>56 </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>54 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>57 </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>43 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>58 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Alfonso Smith </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Ari </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>57 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>59 </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>NR </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>60 </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>NR </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

• San Francisco 49ers running back Frank Gore ran well (107 yards on 19 carries) against the Washington Redskins, but the real story following Sunday's effort was him needing help to walk after spraining his ankle. We've been down this injury road with Gore before, which is the concern. Let's remember the 49ers have a massive five-game lead in the awful NFC West; it's doubtful Gore will be pushed hard the rest of the way if he's banged up. Gore moves from No. 7 to 9 as a precaution, backup Kendall Hunter goes up a bunch just in case, and while Gore might still play in Week 10 against the New York Giants, be aware of the situation before trading for Gore.
• Oddly enough, the running backs in the 12-through-14 slots last week all missed their Week 9 games, but it's tough to justify dropping Ryan Mathews (groin), Darren McFadden (foot) or Ahmad Bradshaw (cracked foot) much because there isn't anybody really pushing them for their slots. All three of them could theoretically play in Week 10, though it doesn't look good for McFadden. In each case, their teams are contenders, and have suitable backups. But who moves up? I mean, how much further up can Darren Sproles go? Beanie Wells had a miserable game Sunday. Ultimately Mathews remains in his spot as healthy Buccaneers runner LeGarrette Blount moves way up.
• Speaking of Sproles' New Orleans Saints, rookie Mark Ingram missed Sunday's game because of a heel injury, and Chris Ivory played in his stead. Ivory has been discussed in this space and Friday's "sneaky pickups" blog entries a few times this season as a pre-emptive add, and he received 15 carries Sunday; Sproles plus Pierre Thomas equaled 12 carries. Don't be surprised if Ingram misses more games. This is terrific depth for the Saints, and could be frustrating for fantasy owners. Ingram drops some, while Ivory moves up.
• Word from Detroit regarding running back Jahvid Best isn't so good. The Lions were on bye in Week 9, but Best still says he has "no idea" when he'll return to the lineup. As we get later into the season, it's getting more likely fantasy owners just cannot rely on the Lions' top running back option. Best drops quite a bit because even if he does play this week, he's certainly not durable. Maurice Morris moves up some as a result.
• After the top 20 running backs, there were numerous changes to be made. Among those to move up were DeMarco Murray of the Dallas Cowboys, Willis McGahee of the Denver Broncos, Marshawn Lynch of the Seattle Seahawks, Ben Tate of the Houston Texans and Roy Helu of the Washington Redskins. Murray likely will still have a significant role even after Felix Jones returns. McGahee has no competition running the ball, except his quarterback. Lynch has scored in four consecutive games. Tate has rushed for 100 yards twice in three weeks -- as a reserve. And with Helu, let's not go overboard because Redskins coach Mike Shanahan probably won't, but Helu did emerge in Week 9.
• Among those to drop some were Jackie Battle of the Kansas City Chiefs, Peyton Hillis and Montario Hardesty of the Cleveland Browns, Ryan Torain of the Redskins and Javon Ringer of the Tennessee Titans. Battle and the Chiefs suffered a miserable home loss to the winless Miami Dolphins. Don't rely on any Browns running backs at this point; who knows when Hillis even plays again, if at all? Torain is buried, and Ringer followed up his relatively big Week 8 game by watching Chris Johnson kind of right himself again.
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>1 </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>2 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>3 </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>3 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>4 </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>4 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>5 </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>6 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>6 </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>8 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>7 </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>5 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>8 </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>7 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>9 </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>14 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>10 </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>9 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>11 </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>10 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>12 </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>11 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>13 </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>13 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>14 </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>12 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>15 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Brandon Lloyd </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>StL </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">Dez Bryant </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Dal </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">Brandon Marshall </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Mia </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>20 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>18 </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>16 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>19 </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>17 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>20 </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>28 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>21 </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>22 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>22 </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>23 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>23 </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>27 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>24 </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>25 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>25 </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>29 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>26 </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>30 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>27 </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>26 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>28 </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>39 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>29 </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>21 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>30 </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>24 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>31 </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>34 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>32 </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>32 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>33 </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>31 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>34 </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>33 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>35 </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>36 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>36 </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>37 </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>37 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>38 </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>39 </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>38 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>40 </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>40 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>41 </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>41 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>42 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Jabar Gaffney </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Was </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>46 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>43 </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>42 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>44 </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>43 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>45 </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>52 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>46 </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>35 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>47 </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>NR </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>48 </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>54 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>49 </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>48 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>50 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Steve Breaston </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>KC </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>51 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>51 </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>44 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>52 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Earl Bennett </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Chi </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">Greg Little </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Cle </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>49 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>54 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Demaryius Thomas </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Den </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>45 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>55 </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>57 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>56 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Early Doucet </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Ari </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>58 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>57 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Josh Cribbs </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Cle </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">Jon Baldwin </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>KC </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>47 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>59 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Titus Young </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Det </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>53 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>60 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Emmanuel Sanders </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Pit </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>55 </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

• It seems clear now that those owners who worried about Chargers wide receiver Vincent Jackson didn't need to. After producing only two double-digit fantasy performances the first eight weeks, and catching three touchdowns overall, the talented Jackson exploded versus the Green Bay Packers for 141 yards and three touchdowns Sunday, producing a Week 9-high 32 fantasy points. Jackson's schedule is enticing, and unlike his quarterback, the interceptions won't hurt Jackson's fantasy owners. He's back in the top 10.
• It remains a bit premature to call this a lost season for the Cowboys' Miles Austin, but his latest hamstring injury is hardly good news. Austin could miss a month. How long after that do your fantasy playoffs start? Keep Austin owned, but he takes a big drop in the rankings. Plus, his last decent fantasy game came way back in Week 2. Dez Bryant moves up two spots, probably not enough for some people, but what we should expect in Austin's absence is for the running game to remain rejuvenated and receiving options such as Laurent Robinson to pick up the slack, not necessarily Bryant. Robinson re-enters the rankings, but he's not high enough to be starter-worthy.
• Watching that entertaining Baltimore Ravens-Pittsburgh Steelers game Sunday night, it was clear that both Torrey Smith and Antonio Brown have big-time skills. I've been on the Brown bandwagon for two months, and finally moved him to just outside the top 30. He's no fluke, as he sees more targets than teammate Mike Wallace, and quarterback Ben Roethlisberger is throwing for 300-plus yards seemingly every week (or at least he has in the past three). Smith scares me more. He caught the winning touchdown pass Sunday, but he also dropped a touchdown pass. He doesn't get many targets. I moved him into the top 50, but I think Brown will remain more productive.
• Other wide receivers movin' on up include Atlanta Falcons rookie Julio Jones, Mario Manningham and Victor Cruz of the Giants and Jacoby Ford and Denarius Moore of the Raiders. Jones has a ways to go to catch the Cincinnati Bengals' A.J. Green as fantasy's top rookie wide receiver, but both are top-20 choices. Hakeem Nicks should play this week, but regardless, Eli Manning throws enough to make Manningham/Cruz relevant. Carson Palmer certainly seemed to ignore Darrius Heyward-Bey (one target) in his first start, opting for Ford, Moore and "ancient" newcomer T.J. Houshmandzadeh. Don't give up on DHB yet, but it doesn't look promising.
• On the bad side, it has been awhile since Pierre Garcon did anything, but oh how glorious his combined 50 fantasy points in Weeks 4/5 were! Since then, in four games, he has contributed just 14 fantasy points. Colts teammate Reggie Wayne drops with him. In this case, being top-5 in the league in targets is not a harbinger of good things to come. It's difficult to be impressed with Texans Jacoby Jones and Kevin Walter, the Broncos' Demaryius Thomas and the Chiefs' Jon Baldwin. At some point, Andre Johnson will return, but will the Texans be throwing? Thomas has one catch each of the past two weeks. Baldwin caught one pass in the Chiefs' brutal loss to Miami on Sunday. He's a big-time talent, kind of like Torrey Smith, but he'll be inconsistent.
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">Jimmy Graham </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NO </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">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>3 </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>5 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>4 </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>8 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>5 </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>6 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>6 </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>3 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>7 </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>7 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>8 </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>4 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>9 </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>9 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>10 </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>11 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>11 </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>10 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>12 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Jake Ballard </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NYG </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">Brandon Pettigrew </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>14 </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>15 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>15 </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>16 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>16 </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>17 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>17 </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>18 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>18 </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>19 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>19 </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>20 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>20 </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>21 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>21 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Jeremy Shockey </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Car </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>22 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>22 </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>13 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>23 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Jacob Tamme </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Ind </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NR </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>24 </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>23 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>25 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Brent Celek </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Phi </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>24 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>26 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Daniel Fells </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Den </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>25 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>27 </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>26 </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>27 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>29 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Tony Scheffler </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Det </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>28 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>30 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Joel Dreessen </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Hou </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>29 </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

• Both New England Patriots tight ends scored touchdowns Sunday, but Rob Gronkowski saw 15 targets, while Aaron Hernandez saw a third that many. That's important. Gronkowski also has 22 receptions the past three games, while Hernandez has 14. Look, they're both fantasy starters, both good enough to regularly help owners, but Gronkowski moves back in front. Each is top-5, as Fred Davis and Owen Daniels have dropped some.
• Davis' problem is too much attention from defenses, as he -- and apparently running back Roy Helu -- is the main option for John Beck. Daniels' problem is he hasn't done much lately. In fact, he hasn't scored since Week 4, and last topped four receptions in Week 5. He's still good, and worth having around, but he's not a slam-dunk choice. It's easy to see how Greg Olsen, Tony Gonzalez and a few others are just as fantasy-worthy.
• Remember when Dallas Clark was a top-50 pick on draft day? The two passes he caught Sunday could reportedly be his last of the season, as he suffered a significant leg injury. He's outside the top 20 for now, but news could come out soon that would drop him from the rankings all together. Don't fret, there's plenty of depth at tight end. If you're in a really deep league, consider Clark's replacement. A year ago, Jacob Tamme was productive. Of course, that's when Peyton Manning and not the Curtis Painter/Dan Orlovsky tandem were in charge. What a shame.
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>1 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle></TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>17 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Jacksonville Jaguars </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>18 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>2 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Pittsburgh Steelers </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>18 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">San Diego Chargers </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>14 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>3 </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>19 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Washington Redskins </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>19 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>4 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Green Bay Packers </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>20 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">St. Louis Rams </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>29 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>5 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">San Francisco 49ers </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>21 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Miami Dolphins </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">Detroit Lions </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>22 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Arizona Cardinals </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>27 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>7 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Chicago Bears </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>23 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">New England Patriots </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>25 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>8 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Cincinnati Bengals </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>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">Houston Texans </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>25 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Tampa Bay Buccaneers </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>21 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>10 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">New Orleans Saints </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>26 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Oakland Raiders </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>20 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>11 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Atlanta Falcons </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>27 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Seattle Seahawks </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>22 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>12 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Philadelphia Eagles </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>28 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Kansas City Chiefs </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>23 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>13 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Buffalo Bills </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>13 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle></TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>29 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Cleveland Browns </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>24 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>14 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Dallas Cowboys </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>30 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Carolina Panthers </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>30 </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>16 </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>31 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>16 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Tennessee Titans </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>17 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle></TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>32 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Indianapolis Colts </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>32 </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>@GB, OAK, @ATL </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">Arian Foster </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Hou </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>RB2 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@TB, bye, @JAC </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>2 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>3 </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>RB3 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>ARI, @NYG, NE </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">Ray Rice </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Bal </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>RB4 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@SEA, CIN, 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">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, CAR, GB </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">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>MIN, TB, @DET </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>8 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>7 </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>RB5 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@DAL, @MIA, @NYJ </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>6 </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>RB6 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>DET, SD, @OAK </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>7 </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>MIN, TB, @DET </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>9 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>10 </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>RB7 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NO, TEN, MIN </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">Maurice Jones-Drew </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Jac </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>RB8 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@IND, @CLE, HOU </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">Cam Newton </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Car </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>QB2 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>TEN, @DET, @IND </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>12 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>13 </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>RB9 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NYG, ARI, @BAL </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>10 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>14 </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>QB3 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@NYJ, KC, @PHI </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">Steven Jackson </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>StL </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>RB10 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@CLE, SEA, ARI </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>16 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>16 </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>QB4 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@ATL, bye, NYG </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>15 </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>RB11 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@CIN, bye, @KC </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>17 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>18 </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>QB5 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@CHI, CAR, GB </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">Mike Wallace </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Pit </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>WR3 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@CIN, bye, @KC </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">Michael Vick </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Phi </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>QB6 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>ARI, @NYG, NE </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">Ryan Mathews </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>SD </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>RB12 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>OAK, @CHI, DEN </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>20 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>22 </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>RB13 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>HOU, @GB, @TEN </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>41 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>23 </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>WR4 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>TEN, @DET, @IND </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">Wes Welker </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NE </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>WR5 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@NYJ, KC, @PHI </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>25 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>25 </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>WR6 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@PHI, @SF, @STL </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">Darren Sproles </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NO </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>RB14 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@ATL, bye, NYG </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">Hakeem Nicks </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NYG </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>WR7 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@SF, PHI, @NO </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>24 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>28 </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>WR8 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@TB, bye, @JAC </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">Vincent Jackson </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>SD </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>WR9 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>OAK, @CHI, DEN </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">Tony Romo </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Dal </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>QB7 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>BUF, @WAS, MIA </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>30 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>31 </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>RB15 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@SD, @MIN, CHI </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>21 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>32 </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>QB8 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@CIN, bye, @KC </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>33 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>33 </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>WR10 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>ARI, @NYG, NE </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>29 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>34 </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>WR11 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>DEN, @NE, PIT </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>34 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>35 </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>WR12 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>PIT, @BAL, CLE </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">Ahmad Bradshaw </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NYG </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>RB16 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@SF, PHI, @NO </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>26 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>37 </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>TE1 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@ATL, bye, NYG </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>32 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>38 </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>WR13 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NO, TEN, MIN </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>38 </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>RB17 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@NYJ, KC, @PHI </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>39 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>40 </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>QB9 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@SF, PHI, @NO </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>49 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>41 </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>WR14 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>ARI, @NYG, NE </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>37 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>42 </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>RB18 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@PHI, @SF, @STL </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>36 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>43 </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>RB19 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NE, @DEN, BUF </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>44 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>44 </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>RB20 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@CAR, @ATL, TB </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>47 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>45 </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>QB10 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>OAK, @CHI, DEN </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>61 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>46 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">DeMarco Murray </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Dal </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>RB21 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>BUF, @WAS, MIA </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>76 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>47 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Brandon Lloyd </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>StL </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>WR15 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@CLE, SEA, ARI </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>45 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>48 </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>TE2 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>BUF, @WAS, MIA </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>46 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>49 </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>RB22 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>WAS, BUF, @DAL </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">Dez Bryant </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Dal </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>WR16 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>BUF, @WAS, MIA </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>52 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>51 </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>WR17 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>WAS, BUF, @DAL </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>56 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>52 </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>RB23 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@KC, NYJ, @SD </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>97 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>53 </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>WR18 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@DAL, @MIA, @NYJ </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>48 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>54 </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>TE3 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>OAK, @CHI, DEN </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>65 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>55 </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>WR19 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@ATL, bye, NYG </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>50 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>56 </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>RB24 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>BAL, @STL, WAS </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>90 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>57 </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>WR20 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NO, TEN, MIN </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>73 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>58 </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>TE4 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@NYJ, KC, @PHI </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>74 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>59 </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>WR21 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NE, @DEN, BUF </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>60 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>60 </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>WR22 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>MIN, TB, @DET </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>62 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>61 </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>QB11 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@TB, bye, @JAC </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>59 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>62 </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>WR23 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@SEA, CIN, SF </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>71 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>63 </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>RB25 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>TEN, @DET, @IND </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>55 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>64 </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>WR24 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>BAL, @STL, WAS </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>66 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>65 </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>TE5 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@NYJ, KC, @PHI </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>68 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>66 </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>WR25 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@SF, PHI, @NO </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>75 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>67 </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>RB26 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>PIT, @BAL, CLE </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>63 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>68 </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>TE6 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@MIA, DAL, @SEA </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>53 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>69 </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>WR26 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@KC, NYJ, @SD </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>79 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>70 </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>TE7 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>MIN, TB, @DET </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">Percy Harvin </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Min </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>WR27 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@GB, OAK, @ATL </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>69 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>72 </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>RB27 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>MIN, TB, @DET </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>51 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>73 </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>WR28 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@CIN, bye, @KC </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>99 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>74 </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>TE8 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@TB, bye, @JAC </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>57 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>75 </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>WR29 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>JAC, bye, CAR </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>58 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>76 </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>RB28 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@CHI, CAR, GB </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>43 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>77 </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>TE9 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>TEN, @DET, @IND </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">Mike Tolbert </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>SD </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>RB29 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>OAK, @CHI, DEN </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>88 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>79 </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>WR30 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>JAC, bye, CAR </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>64 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>80 </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>RB30 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@TB, bye, @JAC </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NR </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>81 </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>TE10 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NO, TEN, MIN </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>87 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>82 </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>WR31 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@SF, PHI, @NO </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>86 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>83 </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>WR32 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@NYJ, KC, @PHI </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>83 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>84 </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>WR33 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>HOU, @GB, @TEN </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">Roy Helu </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Was </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>RB31 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@MIA, DAL, @SEA </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NR </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>86 </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>WR34 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@CAR, @ATL, TB </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>84 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>87 </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>TE11 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NYG, ARI, @BAL </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>81 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>88 </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>RB32 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>TEN, @DET, @IND </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>78 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>89 </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>WR35 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NYG, ARI, @BAL </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>91 </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>RB33 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@SD, @MIN, CHI </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>96 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>91 </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>WR36 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>BUF, @WAS, MIA </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>54 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>92 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Jake Ballard </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NYG </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>TE12 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@SF, PHI, @NO </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NR </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>93 </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>QB12 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NO, TEN, MIN </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NR </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>94 </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>WR37 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>OAK, @CHI, DEN </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>94 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>95 </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>WR38 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>BUF, @WAS, MIA </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NR </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>96 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Jackie Battle </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>KC </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>RB34 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>DEN, @NE, PIT </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>67 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>97 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle">Maurice Morris </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Det </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>RB35 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@CHI, CAR, GB </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NR </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>98 </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>RB36 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@ATL, bye, NYG </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>98 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>99 </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>TE13 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@CHI, CAR, GB </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">Tim Tebow </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>Den </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>QB13 </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>@KC, NYJ, @SD </TD><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: middle" align=middle>NR</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

HacheMan · Nov 9, 2011

Award Tour

Now that every team has played at least eight games, it’s time to take some stock of what we’ve seen. So strap on your stilettos, it’s award season.

Here are the picks for fantasy’s best and worst at midseason:

FANTASY MVP
Fred Jackson, RB, Bills: It’s safe to say that Jackson is an anomaly more than a trend. If we consistently target 30-year-old running backs that play behind untalented offensive lines, we’ll have poor results. But sometimes, things happen that no one can predict. And what we have now is a guy with a preseason average draft position (ADP) of 72.8 that is the No. 2 fantasy running back.

FANTASY BUST
Chris Johnson, RB, Titans: A no-brainer. Johnson went in the top-4 of almost all drafts despite his holdout and has proceeded to average 3.0 yards per carry with one total touchdown. If owners are somehow still in the mix, they can grasp onto hope in the form of a plus-schedule. The Titans still have games against the weak run defenses of the Panthers, Bucs, Bills and Colts remaining.

SLEEPER OF THE YEAR
Jimmy Graham, TE, Saints: Here’s a quote from Graham way back on August 24. "Oh my God, that's all I hear about, man. It seems like everybody I meet on the street, somehow I was some sleeper or something crazy. I have no idea what they're talking about. I have no idea any kind of points system. I've never played (fantasy football) or anything like that." It’s safe to say the secret was out on Graham, but he still came off draft boards behind guys like Dallas Clark, Owen Daniels and Marcedes Lewis. Now Graham is dominating as the No. 1 tight end in fantasy.

INJURY OF THE YEAR
Jamaal Charles, RB, Chiefs: Charles lasted just one full game before tearing his ACL. To show how good he could have been, the Chiefs still rank 10th in the league in rushing at 123.3 yards per game despite riding the likes of Jackie Battle, Dexter McCluster and Thomas Jones. Owners should be able to overcome an injury to someone like Kenny Britt due to the depth at wideout. But losing Charles was likely a death blow.

WAIVER ADD OF THE YEAR
Victor Cruz, WR, Giants: It’s fitting than a guy who went undrafted out of college wasn’t selected in any fantasy leagues either. Now Cruz is locked in as the No. 3 receiver in an explosive pass offense and has often served as the No. 2 receiver due to injuries to Mario Manningham and Hakeem Nicks. Despite recording no catches in Week 1, Cruz is now fantasy’s No. 12 receiver, ahead of Larry Fitzgerald, Brandon Marshall, Roddy White and more.

THE NO DUH PICK OF THE YEAR
Matthew Stafford, QB, Lions: We told you to go all-in on Stafford over and over again before the season. Still, his ADP in ESPN.com leagues was 96.7 as the No. 15 quarterback off the board. Predictably, Stafford has been a beast, averaging 272.3 passing yards per game and tossing 19 touchdowns in just eight games. Just like with Michael Vick, injury concerns were overblown here.

THE OOPS PICK OF THE YEAR
Felix Jones, RB, Cowboys: A wildly impressive preseason had Jones’ stock soaring right as the majority of fantasy drafts got underway. Perhaps he isn’t as talented as we thought. Even before the ankle injury, Jones was held to 70 or fewer total yards in four of five games and scored one touchdown. Now he’s looking at a complementary role when he returns. DeMarco Murray has simply outplayed Jones and ran with his chance.

ROOKIE OF THE YEAR
Cam Newton, QB, Panthers: We’ve been drilled to think that rookie quarterbacks will struggle. So despite Newton’s obvious running ability, no one thought he would pass well enough to be a fantasy factor. In fact, we ranked him 16th among rookies for the 2011 season here, behind guys like Titus Young and Jacquizz Rodgers. Big mistake. Newton’s ability to stand in the pocket and deliver accurate, aggressive throws has been stunning.

PERFORMANCE OF THE YEAR
Aaron Rodgers, Week 4: In a home game against Denver, Rodgers scored more fantasy points in one game than Vernon Davis or Mario Manningham have scored all year. He completed 29-of-38 passes for 408 yards with four touchdowns and added 36 rushing yards and two more scores. It’s part of one of the best first halves we’ve seen in the history of the league. Rodgers is on pace for 5,238 passing yards, 52 total touchdowns and six interceptions.

OK, let’s move on to Tuesday’s news as we get set for Week 10:

NEWS OF THE DAY #1
It’s been a rough couple weeks for Emmanuel Sanders. Last week he lost his mother and on Monday he underwent a scope to repair meniscus damage in his knee. Sanders will be out 2-3 weeks.

Sanders’ absence does clear up the Steelers’ depth chart at receiver. Antonio Brown will continue to start as a strong WR3 opposite Mike Wallace. And Hines Ward, who has been medically cleared from his concussion-like symptoms, will man the slot. Sanders can be dropped outside of the deepest leagues.

NEWS OF THE DAY #2
With Dallas Clark (leg) likely done for the year, Jacob Tamme is in line to start. However, there’s no reason to think Tamme will be the savior he was for owners last year. Curtis Painter has crippled this entire offense and the line needs constant help blocking. It would be a shock if Tamme eclipses Clark’s season averages of 3.1 catches for 31.8 yards.

INJURY QUICK SLANTS
Darren McFadden (foot) is not expected to play Thursday. Michael Bush gets another shot. … Kevin Kolb (toe) is not expected to play this week. John Skelton gets another shot. … Ryan Mathews (groin) remains on track to play Thursday. … Malcom Floyd (hip) is out. Vincent Jackson will take his spot. … Jahvid Best (concussion) has still not been cleared. … Frank Gore (ankle) is expected to be fine for Sunday. … Percy Harvin said his rib pain subsided during the bye week. Perhaps his snap count will now increase. … Kevin Faulk (knee) was close to playing last week. It’s unclear if he or Danny Woodhead will be the passing back Sunday. … Jermaine Gresham (hamstring) is expected to practice Wednesday.

DEPTH CHART QUICK SLANTS
Kevin Smith will start out as a third-stringer behind Maurice Morris and Keiland Williams, as expected. … Knowshon Moreno is expected to stick as the long-term third-down back. He’s not passing Willis McGahee anytime soon. … Dave Rayner is the Bills’ new kicker, in place of Rian Lindell (shoulder)… Roy Helu played on 64-of-67 snaps in Week 9.

HacheMan · Nov 9, 2011

Target Watch: Week 10

The numbers by each name are targets for Weeks' 3-9 followed by the total year to date targets in parenthesis. All snap count data comes from our friends over at Pro Football Focus.

Arizona Cardinals

Larry Fitzgerald: 8-11-8-BYE-10-5-12 (70), Early Doucet: 6-6-16-BYE-5-6-6 (54), Andre Roberts: 6-0-6-BYE-5-3-7 (38), Todd Heap: 10-6 -dnp-BYE-dnp-dnp-dnp (20), Jeff King: 0-1-6-BYE-1-3-2 (18), Rob Housler: 0-1-8-BYE-6-2-dnp (17), Chris Wells: dnp-2-1-BYE-0-0-2 (11)

The addition of John Skelton didn't boost the receivers numbers much, but also didn't do much to hurt them. Neither Kolb or Skelton elevate their receivers' ceiling, but Larry Fitzgerald is still going to get enough targets to eek out startable fantasy points and it looks more and more evident that Early Doucet is out playing and out targeting starter Andre Roberts even though Roberts was on the field for 20 more snaps. Gotta follow the production and that's Doucet.

Atlanta Falcons

Roddy White: 17-11-9-5-10-BYE-9 (78), Tony Gonzalez: 8-9-8-3-8-BYE-6 (58), Julio Jones: 7-17-4-dnp-dnp-BYE-4 (45), Harry Douglas: 7- 0-5-4-7-BYE-0 (29), Jason Snelling: 2-dnp-2-1-1-BYE-0 (16), Jacquizz Rodgers: 3-1-1-1-4-BYE-1 (16), Michael Turner: 0-2-0-3-1-BYE-2 (13)

Julio Jones' 3 receptions and 2 huge touchdowns came on only 4 targets while Roddy White had 9 targets and 4 receptions for 76 yards. It's pretty clear that White is more of a possession receiver at this point and he'll continue to be a great points per reception player, but Jones is more explosive and has a higher fake points ceiling even on less targets as you can see from last week.

Baltimore Ravens

Anquan Boldin: 14-2-BYE-9-12-12-10 (73), Ray Rice: 7-5-BYE-7-8-9-7 (56), Ed Dickson: 9-12-BYE-3-5-9-5 (54), Torrey Smith: 8-6-BYE-5- 5-9-9 (43), Dennis Pitta: 1-1-BYE-5-3-8-8 (31), Vonta Leach: 4-3-BYE-2-1-1-1 (16), LaQuan Williams: 3-1-BYE-1-2-1-3 (11)

Anquan Boldin is on pace for 82 receptions midway through the season. Last year he totaled 64. His four games at 7 receptions or more already beats his two games from last season. He's not going to have huge games consistently but the threat of Torrey Smith is helping him.

Torrey Smith has had some trouble with drops but if he can see anywhere near 9 targets a game like he has in the last two weeks he will have value.

Buffalo Bills

Stevie Johnson: 10-6-5-10-BYE-9-6 (66), David Nelson: 8-3-2-6-BYE-5-7 (50), Fred Jackson: 6-8-6-6-BYE-4-7 (40), Donald Jones: 10-8-2 -dnp-BYE-dnp-4 (35), Scott Chandler: 3-2-1-1-BYE-2-3 (21), Naaman Roosevelt: 1-1-7-2-BYE-1-3 (15), C.J. Spiller: 1-1-2-5-BYE-3-0 (14)

Stevie Johnson just had the best game against Darrelle Revis this season. He can play; that's no doubt. David Nelson went back into the slot with Donald Jones returning and had his most targets since Week 3 and his first touchdown since Week 5 (which was his only reception that game). It seems the slot is the place for Nelson.

Carolina Panthers

Steve Smith: 7-10-7-7-9-9-BYE (73), Greg Olsen: 10-7-5-10-3-7-BYE (52), Legedu Naanee: 2-11-7-2-3-7-BYE (44), Jeremy Shockey: 7-5-7- 7-4-3-BYE (41), Jonathan Stewart: 3-4-1-3-0-3-BYE (25), Brandon LaFell: 0-6-2-1-3-2-BYE (24), DeAngelo Williams: 3-1-0-3-0-2-BYE (15)

Steve Smith should win the comeback player award once again, and coming back from the likes of Jimmy Clausen is adversity at its finest. After Smith, the numbers continue to be scattered with only Greg Olsen having any kind of consistent play, at least in relation to his teammates. I was worried about Olsen's turf toe, but he looked good on a seam route to score his touchdown and on the whole he is seeing a lot more targets than Shockey. But he's still more of a matchup play.

Brandon LaFell saw 42 snaps to Legedu Naanee's 61 in Week 8, but also only had two targets to Naanee's 7. I have to believe LaFell will continue to see more work going forward.

Chicago Bears

Matt Forte: 8-5-7-7-4-BYE-5 (56), Devin Hester: 5-2-7-7-9-BYE-5 (49), Johnny Knox: 9-4-2-4-6-BYE-1 (36), Dane Sanzenbacher: 7-2-10-3 -3-BYE-2 (35), Roy Williams: 4-1-1-4-5-BYE-6 (25), Kellen Davis: 2-1-3-3-2-BYE-3 (20), Sam Hurd: 1-2-5-0-0-BYE-0 (11), Earl Bennett: dnp-dnp-dnp-dnp-dnp-BYE-5 (10)

In the target world and the real world as well this was Earl Bennett's game. Last week I mistakenly said good things about Roy Williams. It's a mistake I plan on never repeating as well as striking from the internets. It doesn't take much to be the most sure handed receiver on the Bears (I'm thinking I could vie for that title and I have bratwurst fingers) but with Earl Bennett back it's no contest. And he may also be the most sure handed receiver in the NFL! Last season he had a whopping zero drops. And against the Eagles he caught all 6 of his targets while Jay Cutler watched his other receivers not catch all of theirs.
Cincinnati Bengals

A.J. Green: 5-10-8-7-BYE-10-7 (65), Jerome Simpson: 4-3-7-9-BYE-2-10 (53), Andre Caldwell: 12-5-4-4-BYE-6-9 (45), Jermaine Gresham: 8-7-7-6-BYE-dnp-dnp (41), Brian Leonard: 1-2-3-2-BYE-3-2 (17)

It’s pretty much established that A.J. Green is an elite talent and can have good games based on that talent alone. Jerome Simpson has 2 touchdowns in the last 2 games but that is also without Jermaine Gresham who, before he was hurt, led the team in red zone targets. The Bengals are a balanced offense with a good defense and Green is the only sure target target us fake footballers can rely on.

Cleveland Browns

Greg Little: 5-8-BYE-12-7-11-8 (59), Ben Watson: 10-9-BYE-8-4-3-2 (47), Josh Cribbs: 6-8-BYE-5-6-3-5 (39), Mohamed Massaquoi: 6-9- BYE-7-2-dnp-1 (38), Evan Moore: 3-2-BYE-3-4-2-2 (23), Peyton Hillis: dnp-6-BYE-1-dnp-dnp-dnp (19), Montario Hardesty: 4-9-BYE-4-2-0- dnp (19), Alex Smith: 4-2-BYE-3-2-1-0 (17). Chris Ogbonnaya: dnp-0-BYE-dnp-5-8-1 (14)

In the last five games Greg Little is averaging 9.2 targets, 4.6 receptions, 44.2 yards and no touchdowns. Josh Cribbs has nearly the same amount of yards and two touchdowns on just 27 targets. It's starting to look like Mr. Cribbs should see a few more of those targets.

Dallas Cowboys

Jason Witten: 9-10-BYE-4-6-12-7 (71), Dez Bryant: 4-5-BYE-8-8-5-9 (47), Miles Austin: dnp-dnp-BYE-10-5-3-3 (45), Laurent Robinson: 5 -10-BYE-2-3-8-5 (33), Felix Jones: 3-7-BYE-4-dnp-dnp-dnp (20), Demarco Murray: 0-1-BYE-2-2-3-6 (16)

It's fairly clear who the playmakers are out of the Cowboys receivers and with Austin out a few weeks with a hamstring injury it narrows them down to Jason Witten and Dez Bryant. Witten will remain the most trusted as you can see with his 71 targets on the season. Bryant remains erratic, but his ability joined with an uptick in targets makes him a true fantasy commodity.

Laurent Robinson will take over for Austin and is the only Cowboys receiver with two 100 yard games. He'll be useful for your fake teams once again.

Denver Broncos

Eric Decker: 12-10-5-BYE-3-12-5 (61), Eddie Royal: dnp-dnp-dnp-BYE-4-13-5 (31), Daniel Fells: 4-3-4-BYE-4-1-1 (25), Matt Willis: 3-1 -3-BYE-2-3-0 (18), Willis McGahee: 5-2-1-BYE-0-dnp-0 (17), Knowshon Moreno: 0-1-3-BYE-2-2-4 (15), Demaryius Thomas: dnp-dnp-dnp-BYE- 10-3-2 (15)

The run first/pass little (and wobbly) game plan is going to hurt the Broncos receivers. Somehow Eric Decker continues to get his but on 5 targets it's going to be tough to continue his touchdown production.

Detroit Lions

Calvin Johnson: 11-13-6-9-11-7-BYE (74), Brandon Pettigrew: 13-9-5-14-6-4-BYE (60), Nate Burleson: 2-4-4-10-3-7-BYE (44), Jahvid Best: 7-8-4-8-dnp-dnp-BYE (40), Titus Young: 8-5-4-5-3-5-BYE (38), Maurice Morris: 2-0-1-1-4-3-BYE (13), Tony Scheffler: 1-1-1-dnp-3 -3-BYE (13)

The Lions had their way with the Broncos in Week 8 and once again Calvin Johnson did his usual damage. Brandon Pettigrew was out produced by Tony Scheffler which is a little worrisome, but Pettigrew was on the field 51 snaps to Scheffler's 18. This might be a good time to grab Pettigrew cheap. Titus Young had a wide open touchdown, but he and Nate Burleson will continue to hurt each other's overall numbers.

With Jahvid Best still out, Maurice Morris saw 42 snaps to Keiland Williams' 19. Morris is the back to own while Best is recovering.

Green Bay Packers

Greg Jennings: 10-7-5-10-10-BYE-8 (66), Jermichael Finley: 8-6-7-4-2-BYE-7 (44), Jordy Nelson: 5-6-7-3-4-BYE-6 (41), James Jones: 6- 3-7-1-4-BYE-1 (25), James Starks: 4-6-3-2-4-BYE-1 (25), Donald Driver: 2-4-2-5-1-BYE-2 (24)

If you get a target as a Packer receiver the chances that it will be in the best place possible to make the catch are pretty darn good. Aaron Rodgers is 16th in pass attempts, 1st in touchdowns and 4th in total yards and he has put three of his receivers in the top 6 of the fantasy points per target list. That's what we like to call efficiency. And even if your receiver isn't getting a ton of targets (see James Jones) he still has value.

So let's see James Jones; in the last five games he has 16 targets, 14 receptions, 307 yards and 4 touchdowns. That is the product of Rodgers' greatness and why, with his accuracy, big target numbers aren't needed.

Houston Texans

Owen Daniels: 9-7-11-3-5-6-4 (52), Arian Foster: dnp-5-7-11-5-4-7 (41), Jacoby Jones: 2-1-11-7-4-5-4 (41), Andre Johnson: 12-5-dnp- dnp-dnp-dnp-dnp (37), Kevin Walter: 3-1-6-8-4-9-1 (34), Derrick Mason: 10-3-1-4-1-2-0 (29), Joel Dreessen: 1-1-9-2-2-2-2 (22), James Casey: 7-1-2-dnp-dnp-0-1 (14)

The Andre Johnson-less Texans are spreading the ball around and running it a little too much for my liking. In a game where both of the Texan running backs ran over 100 yards, the tight end position saw seven targets and the wide receivers had five. And those were spread out between three tight ends and two wideouts. Of course there will be games where they need to throw more, but Owen Daniels is having his ceiling lowered by the week.
Indianapolis Colts

Reggie Wayne: 13-8-7-6-4-14-6 (77), Pierre Garcon: 10-8-8-11-6-15-6 (75), Austin Collie: 7-7-2-6-5-7-5 (52), Dallas Clark: 6-4-5-7-0 -10-5 (50), Jacob Tamme: 0-0-0-1-0-0-7 (9)

In their last four games Pierre Garcon and Reggie Wayne are ranked 70th and 68th in average fantasy points for wide receivers. That's really all you need to know about the Colts' passing game.

After Delone Carter fumbled he saw the game from the sidelines while Donald Brown was out there for 46 snaps to Carter's 12.

Jacksonville Jaguars

Mike Thomas: 8-11-7-6-1-4-BYE (58), Jason Hill: 5-9-7-3-8-5-BYE (42), Marcedes Lewis: 2-7-4-8-3-9-BYE (36), Maurice Jones-Drew: 3-4- 0-3-3-4-BYE (21), Deji Karim: 2-1-4-1-0-1-BYE (13), Jarett Dillard: 0-3-1-3-dnp-3-BYE (12)

Blaine Gabbert threw for 299 yards and 2 touchdowns!! Oh, that was in his last 3 games? Whoops.

Kansas City Chiefs

Dwayne Bowe: 6-9-11-BYE-10-11-10 (73), Steve Breaston: 6-5-5-BYE-9-4-11 (44), Dexter McCluster: 6-4-2-BYE-2-3-4 (31), Leonard Pope: 3-1-3-BYE-1-1-2 (20), Jonathan Baldwin: dnp-dnp-dnp-BYE-5-8-5 (18), Keary Colbert: 1-4-2-BYE-0-1-1 (12), LeRon McClain: 0-4-0-BYE-2- 2-1 (11)

In desperation mode, Matt Cassel threw the ball at Steve Breaston and Dwayne Bowe a ton. Jonathan Baldwin remained in the mix and just missed a touchdown, but Breaston still remains a trusted guy for Cassel.

Since they were in passing mode most of the game Dexter McCluster was on the field for 55 plays to Jackie Battle's 28. But neither did anything of fantasy relevance, well, positive fantasy relevance.

Miami Dolphins

Brandon Marshall: 7-8-BYE-13-9-6-11 (78), Davone Bess: 9-5-BYE-3-12-5-3 (49), Brian Hartline: 4-5-BYE-6-2-2-0 (33), Reggie Bush: 1-2 -BYE-2-2-5-3 (26), Anthony Fasano: 2-4-BYE-2-2-1-3 (22), Daniel Thomas: 3-dnp-BYE-1-5-dnp-0 (10), Charles Clay: 1-2-BYE-2-1-1-3 (10)

Brandon Marshall had his best game of the season against the Chiefs catching 8 passes for 106 yards and a touchdown. That was only his second touchdown of the year which is his only downfall in fantasy right now. He has yet to have a game under four receptions and is fifth in receptions per game with 5.75. He'll continue to be a PPR asset and if he can find the end zone a few more times could be extremely valuable.

Charles Clay is listed as a running back in some fantasy formats but is doing the James Casey FB/TE thing with the Dolphins. He only had 3 targets but caught all three for 50 yards. Keep an eye on this since the Dolphins are out of it and will be looking to evaluate talent and Clay has some.

Minnesota Vikings

Visanthe Shiancoe: 2-8-6-7-8-4-BYE (43), Percy Harvin: 5-7-2-9-3-5-BYE (43), Michael Jenkins: 10-1-6-6-8-2-BYE (39), Devin Aromashodu: 2-2-5-2-5-6-BYE (24), Bernard Berrian: 5-6-dnp-7-dnp-dnp-BYE (24), Kyle Rudolph: 3-4-0-3-1-5-BYE (18), Adrian Peterson: 5-1-0-1-1-5-BYE (18)

Percy Harvin seems to leave every game with an injury, but he's still leading the team in targets and is pretty darn good at football. He's the only Minnesota receiver I'd want on my fake team. Christian Ponder is also targeting his tight ends quite a bit, but Shiancoe and Rudolph are going to hurt each other's value going forward.

Adrian Peterson is better than anyone at football.

New England Patriots

Wes Welker: 20-14-8-10-BYE-8-10 (93), Rob Gronkowski: 9-5-4-7-BYE-9-15 (62), Deion Branch: 3-4-8-5-BYE-7-5 (51), Aaron Hernandez: dnp-dnp-9-14-BYE-4-5 (50), Chad Ochocinco: 4-2-3-1-BYE-1-5 (21), Danny Woodhead: 5-0-dnp-3-BYE-0-6 (17)

Tom Brady has lost some of his first month luster, but he's still putting up good fake football numbers and helping his friends do the same. Wes Welker is the target and reception czar of the universe, but Mr. Robert Gronkowski has surpassed Aaron Hernandez in targets and fake football goodness. Of course Bill Belichick might have Gronk block all next game, but his targets should keep him in the elite tight end race.

New Orleans Saints

Jimmy Graham: 8-14-12-11-7-8-8 (82), Darren Sproles: 9-7-7-11-6-7-6 (72), Marques Colston: dnp-3-6-11-7-6-5 (47), Lance Moore: 9-6-6 -3-4-9-3 (44), Robert Meachem: 8-6-5-2-2-3-1 (39), Pierre Thomas: 1-4-3-1-6-4-5 (33), Devery Henderson: 4-1-1-2-2-4-3 (29)

Jimmy Graham is one of three receivers with 7 or more targets in each game and the only tight end. If you own him don't hide that under a bushel basket or really any kind of basket or enclosed space.

Darren Sproles is still blowing away the running back competition when it comes to targets. He has 72 to Matt Forte's and Ray Rice's 56. Just think if he'd played on the Saints his whole career. Dude would have exactly infinity amount of receptions right about now. So far he has 56 and is on pace for 99.5. I'll be very interested to see how he gets half of a reception.
New York Giants

Hakeem Nicks: 5-14-7-7-BYE-10-dnp (61), Victor Cruz: 5-9-11-4-BYE-9-11 (53), Mario Manningham: dnp-5-9-8-BYE-9-7 (52), Jake Ballard: 1-3-4-5-BYE-7-7 (31), Ahmad Bradshaw: 5-5-5-2-BYE-5-dnp (29), Brandon Jacobs: 3-1-dnp-dnp-BYE-2-5 (13)

With Hakeem Nicks out ... Victor Cruz, Mario Manningham and Jake Ballard picked up the slack in targets and production. Even with Nicks in there they all seem to still have some value for fantasy but unfortunately having one of the receivers sit funnels the production enough to make those still standing safer.

New York Jets

Dustin Keller: 9-8-2-5-8-BYE-7 (53), Plaxico Burress: 6-8-8-4-8-BYE-5 (50), Santonio Holmes: 2-11-6-4-3-BYE-6 (46), LaDainian Tomlinson: 6-3-1-4-4-BYE-3 (30), Jeremy Kerley: 0-1-3-4-7-BYE-5 (20), Shonn Greene: 7-0-2-2-1-BYE-0 (15)

The last couple of games have seen a bit of a resurgence in targets for Dustin Keller which is nice, but with the commitment to the running game in full effect it is hard to find a safe play in the passing game week in and week out.

Oakland Raiders

Darrius Heyward-Bey: 3-7-12-9-11-BYE-1 (50), Denarius Moore: 6-5-6-4-5-BYE-12 (47), Jacoby Ford: dnp-2-7-4-5-BYE-6 (28), Darren McFadden: 3-6-3-1-1-BYE-dnp (23), Derek Hagan: 3-5-3-0-1-BYE-dnp (20), Michael Bush: 2-4-0-1-3-BYE-3 (14)

Do you really want to know what happened with Darrius Heyward-Bey last week? Yeah, me too. I'm going with the working theory that the coaches believe that Denarius Moore and Jacoby Ford are better at football and now don't have to worry about that phone ringing from high above.

The target numbers favor Moore by a wide margin but the production went to Ford. Both have the ability to take consistent targets to the bank and/or end zone.

Philadelphia Eagles

Jeremy Maclin: 7-11-8-7-BYE-3-9 (63), DeSean Jackson: 6-9-7-6-BYE-6-8 (57), Brent Celek: 2-4-5-9-BYE-9-9 (48), Jason Avant: 5-8-10-4 -BYE-5-3 (46), LeSean McCoy: 3-9-7-4-BYE-3-5 (38)

Maclin has 15 more receptions, 100 more yards and 2 more touchdowns than DeSean Jackson, but only 6 more targets. It is becoming abundantly clear that Maclin is much more well rounded as a player and in turn for our fantasy needs.

The decline of Jackson has brought about a Brent Celek renaissance. In the first five games he had 21 targets and in the last three he's had 27. The non-elite tight ends target numbers fluctuate quite a bit, but it really does look like Celek has won the favor of Michael Vick.

Pittsburgh Steelers

Antonio Brown: 8-10-4-2-9-15-10 (73), Mike Wallace: 7-4-7-6-7-7-6 (64), Heath Miller: 6-3-4-6-4-9-5 (45), Hines Ward: 4-4-8-4-4-dnp-1 (40), Emmanuel Sanders: 5-2-3-4-7-8-dnp (35), Rashard Mendenhall: 4-2-dnp-0-2-4-2 (17), Jerricho Cotchery: dnp-1-1-0-1-1-6 (10)

In the last three games Antonio Brown has 34 targets to Mike Wallace's 20. There will most likely be a correction here as we go forward, but Brown is benefitting from Wallace's hot start to the season and has plenty of room to find holes in defenses. But anyway you look at it Brown is a favorite of Ben Roethlisberger's. In the last three games Roethlisberger has averaged 42 passes and 352 yards.

Those of course are the ceiling but he's giving his receivers plenty to work with in fantasy and right now that's Brown, Wallace and yes, even Heath Miller.

San Diego Chargers

Vincent Jackson: 8-4-6-BYE-8-8-12 (64), Mike Tolbert: 5-8-3-BYE-1-dnp-9 (44), Antonio Gates: dnp-dnp-dnp-BYE-7-7-11 (39), Ryan Mathews: 4-5-1-BYE-5-7-dnp (36), Malcom Floyd: 5-3-7-BYE-4-7-dnp (36), Randy McMichael: 5-6-6-BYE-3-3-1 (28), Patrick Crayton: 7-1-2 -BYE-1-4-3 (18), Jacob Hester: 2-0-2-BYE-1-0-2 (11), Vincent Brown: 1-2-0-BYE-1-dnp-6 (10)

Against the Packers, San Diego had to throw the ball 46 times so there were plenty of targets and yards to go around. Vincent Jackson came out of his slump in a huge way with 7 receptions for 141 yards and 3 touchdowns and is getting enough looks to most likely keep him from any more three game skids like that. Antonio Gates is also getting plenty of targets since coming back and as long as he can stay upright will get his. After that it is a little foggier on the target horizon, but wait, what is this? A rookie receiver steps from the gloom and slowly begins to come into focus. He has a steely visage as he looks off into the distance preparing to go into battle. His name? Vincent Brown. He had a decent game with 6 targets, 4 receptions and 79 yards last week and was on the field for 63 plays taking over for Malcom Floyd while Patrick Crayton only saw 30. As long as Floyd is out Brown should get plenty of playing time.
Seattle Seahawks

Sidney Rice: 10-6-5-BYE-5-14-8 (48), Doug Baldwin: 4-6-9-BYE-3-8-6 (44), Ben Obomanu: 2-4-10-BYE-2-4-2 (36), Justin Forsett: 3-4-1- BYE-1-1-3 (21), Mike Williams: 1-5-dnp-BYE-4-dnp-3 (21), Zach Miller: 3-6-0-BYE-dnp-5-0 (20), Marshawn Lynch: 3-4-6-BYE-dnp-0-2 (19), Golden Tate: 3-0-3-BYE-1-4-1 (19)

This team is maddening to say the least and that is mainly because they don't have any consistency at quarterback. Tarvaris Jackson has flashed ability throughout his career but can't bring it every game. But unlike the Colts and Jaguars I do have a little more hope for their number one receiver Sidney Rice. In the four games where Jackson has played the majority of the snaps and Rice was starting, Sidney has averaged 9.5 targets, 5 receptions and 90 yards to go along with a touchdown. Hopefully that will continue.

San Francisco 49ers

Michael Crabtree: 6-9-5-15-BYE-9-5 (51), Vernon Davis: 9-6-3-2-BYE-3-7 (38), Frank Gore: 2-2-2-5-BYE-0-3 (21), Delanie Walker: 2-3-3 -3-BYE-0-2 (18), Braylon Edwards: dnp-dnp-dnp-dnp-BYE-7-3 (17), Ted Ginn: 0-1-0-5-BYE-1-1 (15)

Alex Smith is completing 17 passes per game which is 29th in the league, which is not all that many. Of course they keep winning because of defense and Frank Gore so that number isn't going to go up any time soon. Michael Crabtree has become a reliable receiver and is worth owning, but his upside is pretty low with Vernon Davis and Braylon Edwards taking away looks.

St. Louis Rams

Brandon Lloyd: 7-11-BYE-dnp-12-13-13 (71), Brandon Gibson: 7-1-BYE-10-dnp-6-5 (42), Danario Alexander: 8-8-BYE-10-6-dnp-dnp (39), Greg Salas: dnp-dnp-BYE-10-2-6-9 (38), Lance Kendricks: 3-9-BYE-6-1-3-1 (32), Steven Jackson: 1-8-BYE-5-5-5-2 (26), Cadillac Williams: 2-dnp-BYE-3-1-0-0 (21), Austin Pettis: 2-7-BYE-0-0-1-5 (15)

Brandon Lloyd is the story here in target land with 38 targets in the last three games which are also his first three games as a Ram. Antonio Brown is second in that span with 34. Lloyd has yet to get in the end zone but it's a coming, and hell's coming with it you hear!? Hell's coming with it! Oh, sorry, no hell, just fantasy points.

Greg Salas had a nice 9 targets before breaking his fibula. Then Austin Pettis took over and had 5 targets. He's next in line for all those slot receiver receptions and/or a broken bone.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Mike Williams: 9-8-9-13-11-BYE-8 (72), Kellen Winslow: 4-6-9-10-12-BYE-6 (63), Preston Parker: 1-7-3-5-6-BYE-4 (39), Arrelious Benn: 4-1-4-6-1-BYE-2 (27), Dezmon Briscoe: 0-0-2-2-10-BYE-2 (22), Kregg Lumpkin: 1-3-1-0-8-BYE-6 (20), Luke Stocker: 2-4-dnp-dnp-3-BYE-0 (11), LeGarrette Blount: 3-2-3-dnp-dnp-BYE-3 (11)

As you can see, the target distribution is pretty lopsided to Mike Williams and Kellen Winslow. Parker, Benn and Briscoe are extremely inconsistent in targets and production. Williams continues to under-produce but he's still getting his opportunities. Winslow is third in targets for tight ends and 17th in fantasy points. His two touchdowns are the main problem and we could see an uptick in those in the second half, but don’t rely on it.

Tennessee Titans

Nate Washington: 9-4-8-BYE-3-6-6 (54), Chris Johnson: 7-2-3-BYE-6-5-6 (41), Lavelle Hawkins: 5-4-8-BYE-7-5-6 (39), Damian Williams: 3-4-11-BYE-4-5-7 (36), Jared Cook: 2-6-9-BYE-2-2-8 (34), Javon Ringer: 2-0-6-BYE-1-6-2 (19)

In the last four games the Titan receivers' target numbers were Damian Williams 27, Lavelle Hawkins 26 and Nate Washington 23. And the yards and touchdowns are just about as evenly spread out. If I had to own one it would be Williams, but they are going to hurt each other.

Chris Johnson has 41 targets through eight games and last season through the first eight he only had 28 targets. So the Titans are at least trying to get him out in space. If he can start turning things around this should help him in the second half.

Washington Redskins

Fred Davis: 3-6-BYE-11-8-9-7 (57), Jabar Gaffney: 6-4-BYE-10-8-5-5 (53), Santana Moss: 8-10-BYE-6-2-dnp-dnp (43), Roy Helu: 2-0-BYE- 4-2-4-17 (33), Terrence Austin: 4-0-BYE-1-6-3-5 (19), Anthony Armstrong: 0-dnp-BYE-dnp-4-4-1 (19), Tim Hightower: 6-3-BYE-dnp-1-dnp- dnp (15), Chris Cooley: 5-2-BYE-1-dnp-dnp-dnp (13), Donte Stallworth: dnp-1-BYE-3-dnp-2-dnp (11), Leonard Hankerson: dnp-dnp-BYE- dnp-1-4-5 (10)

The biggest news out of Redskins camp is Roy Helu taking over as the lead back. And he truly did with 65 total snaps to Ryan Torain's 4. Oh and he had a plethora of targets and plethora equals 17 in this context.

The Redskins are going the youth route with Leonard Hankerson leading the snap count for receivers with Gaffney and Austin behind him. Anthony Armstrong is out of the loop with 8 snaps. But really the only receiver you can count on is Fred Davis. Even his name sounds boring, i.e reliable.

Here are the top 20 wide receivers in fantasy points per target. To qualify for this list they need at least 25 targets. 1. James Jones 2.3, 2. Jordy Nelson 2.1, 3. Calvin Johnson 1.9, 4. Mike Wallace 1.9, 5. Kenny Britt 1.8, 6. Greg Jennings 1.6, 7. Steve Smith 1.6, 8. Victor Cruz 1.56, 9. Vincent Jackson 1.5, 10. Devery Henderson 1.5, 11. Torrey Smith 1.5, 12. Laurent Robinson 1.47, 13. Dez Bryant 1.46, 14. Wes Welker 1.45, 15. Julio Jones 1.4, 16. Miles Austin 1.4, 17. Arrelious Benn 1.4, 18. Marques Colston 1.39, 19. A.J. Green 1.38, 20. Jeremy Maclin 1.3

HacheMan · Nov 9, 2011

Don't Beat Around the Bush

Thursday Night Football

Oakland @ San Diego

Darren McFadden has yet to resume jogging after an October 23 mid-foot sprain, so Michael Bush will pick up a second straight start. A bell-cow when working with the first-team offense, Bush has made four starts since Hue Jackson took over as Oakland's playcaller last year. In them, Bush has averaged 25 touches for 123.5 total yards per game, with three touchdowns while playing 255-of-265 snaps (96.2%). Bush is an every-down back, "losing" only two touches to rookie change-of-pace Taiwan Jones last Sunday. The Chargers rank 18th against the run and permit 4.53 yards per carry, so this is a favorable matchup for Oakland's rushing attack. Bush is the best fantasy bet on either side in this game. ... Carson Palmer displayed plenty of zip on intermediate and deep throws during his first start as a Raider last week, throwing for 332 yards and three touchdowns. Palmer racked up attempts in pass-heavy comeback mode, however, and was facing Denver's 23rd-ranked pass defense. San Diego ranks fourth in the league against the pass, and this game doesn't project as much of a shootout as Oakland's 38-24 Week 9 loss. Palmer has the ability and supporting cast to flirt with QB1 value the rest of the way, but I'd want to consider him more of a QB2 until we see Palmer produce against a top-flight NFL pass defense.

Oakland emerged from its Week 8 bye with a new pecking order at receiver. Darrius Heyward-Bey (0 yards) was demoted to a part-timer off the bench, while Denarius Moore (4-61) is now the starting split end and Jacoby Ford (5-105-1) the flanker. T.J. Houshmandzadeh (1-28) and Chaz Schilens (2-20) are sharing time in the slot. The rotation is subject to change, but at this point in time Heyward-Bey is not a fantasy option. It certainly doesn't instill confidence that DHB has one catch for 10 yards in two career meetings with San Diego. Housh and Schilens can't be trusted, either. ... In Week 9, Moore played predominantly on the left side of the formation with Ford on the right. If this trend holds, Ford will likely spend the majority of this game in Chargers top CB Quentin Jammer's coverage. San Diego has shuffled bodies at the other corner position, where both Antoine Cason and rookie Marcus Gilchrist have experienced benchings since late October. If I'm betting on a player to lead Oakland in receiving Thursday night, my money would be on Denarius Moore. ... Like Heyward-Bey, Kevin Boss wasn't involved in the Raiders' post-bye game plan, playing one snap against Denver and failing to catch a pass. Brandon Myers (1-11) started, but was on the field for only 21 downs while being out-produced by FB Marcel Reece (3-51-1).

Philip Rivers delivered his best fantasy game of the year in Week 9 against Green Bay, throwing for season-highs in yards (385) and touchdowns (4) while attempting 46 passes, his most since Week 1. Box scores may suggest Rivers is catching fire with two straight games over 360 yards, but the eye in the sky doesn't lie. I watched all 48 of Rivers' Week 9 drop backs (two were sacks), and considered 21 of his 46 throws (45.7%) to be inaccurate -- either too far ahead of or behind the intended target, or off the mark entirely. 25 were accurately thrown -- either caught or dropped. That's in comparison to Aaron Rodgers, who threw accurately 22-of-26 times (84.6%). The Chargers came out with a run-heavy approach, perhaps in an effort to protect their struggling, wild quarterback, but tried 31 second-half passes after two Rivers pick-sixes got them in an early hole. "I really believe there's something going on (with Rivers)," said NFL Network's Mike Mayock on PFT Live this week. "I feel so badly for him. I don't know if he's hurt and not letting people know." While this is a favorable matchup against an Oakland defense that ranks 20th against the pass and will be without starting corner Demarcus Van Dyke (hamstring), I wouldn't trust Rivers to turn his season around in the long run. He's a low-end QB1 on Thursday night.

Vincent Jackson and Antonio Gates saved Rivers repeatedly against the Packers, getting open consistently and making tough catches downfield or over the middle. Despite their quarterback's struggles, V-Jax and Gates need to stay locked into fantasy lineups. In his last three matchups with the Raiders, the 6-foot-5, 240-pound Jackson is averaging six catches for 103 yards per game, with a touchdown in each. ... Gates' last two lines against Oakland: 6-73-1 and 5-92-1. ... Rookie Vincent Brown will get another start in place of Malcom Floyd, but doesn't seem to have earned Rivers' confidence yet. Brown wasn't so much as targeted in the first two quarters against Green Bay, recording all four of his receptions for 79 yards in the pass-heavy second half, mostly on dump-off throws. ... Both of these teams are obviously playing on a short week and don't figure to be at 100 percent physically. The Raiders' defensive line could be particularly affected after getting ransacked for 299 yards and two touchdowns on 38 carries (7.87 YPC) by the Broncos' rushing attack last week. The Chargers may look to "ease back" Ryan Mathews from a groin strain, but will likely stay with him if he's hot early. During the six games in which both Mathews and Mike Tolbert have been healthy, Mathews is averaging 20.3 touches to Tolbert's 12.5.

Score Prediction: Chargers 24, Raiders 17

HacheMan · Nov 9, 2011

Predicting 2012 fantasy stud QBs

Want to peg good fantasy QBs for 2012? Start by looking at a stat that can help

By Peter Keating
ESPN Insider

Keep the faith when it comes to Matt Ryan, and pick up Matt Hasselbeck. But dump Alex Smith, and sell high on Mark Sanchez.
As fantasy trade deadlines approach, that's Total Quarterback Rating's advice, particularly if you are in a keeper league.
As you know, QBR evaluates quarterbacks based on their play-by-play contributions to advancing their teams' chances of winning games. This offers a better picture of quarterbacks' overall production than traditional stats, but when I first started looking at QBR's possible fantasy implications, I wasn't sure it would have much to say. On one hand, QBR incorporates a number of factors that help determine whether players stay on the field and score both real-life and fantasy points, like rushing yards, sacks and fumbles. On the other hand, most fantasy scoring systems are tied directly to traditional statistical categories, such as passing yards and touchdowns. It's also not clear just how much quarterbacks' success in high-leverage situations, where QBR awards extra credit, carries over into future fantasy seasons.
As it turns out, QBR is an even better predictor of fantasy value than traditional stats or fantasy stats.
Suppose we look at all quarterbacks who have stayed good enough -- and healthy enough -- to qualify for the NFL passer rating title both last season and this season. Among this group of 25 starters the correlation, or strength of the statistical relationship, between the number of yards they threw for in 2010 and the number of fantasy points they have scored in 2011 is 0.42, or moderately strong.
<OFFER>The correlation between 2010 touchdowns and 2011 fantasy points is stronger than that: 0.52. Between 2010 passer rating and 2011 fantasy points, it's stronger still: 0.55. And the correlation between 2010 fantasy points and 2011 fantasy points is pretty strong: 0.62.
But QBR beats them all, with a correlation of 0.64. In fact, QBR's estimate of the total points added by quarterbacks to their teams, which we call clutch-weighted expected points added (CWE), looks like the single best predictor of fantasy scoring out there, with a correlation of 0.67. Just as a pitcher's current ERA is a better predictor of his future win-loss record than his current win-loss record is, QBR and CWE predict fantasy scoring better than fantasy points do.
If we look at how 2009 stats translated into 2010 fantasy points, we get the same results. All of the carryover effects are lower, mostly because a few quarterbacks kept starting jobs but their stats crashed due to age (like Brett Favre) or injury (like Tony Romo). But among the correlations, QBR and CWE are still tops, stronger than passer rating, TDs, yards, yards per game or attempts. The fundamental reason: a quarterback's rushes, sacks, fumbles and yards after catch are moderately related (some positively, some negatively) to the fantasy points he racks up the following season. Traditional passing stats account for none of them; QBR includes all of them.
Now, here's the cool part. Since QBR tracks components of a quarterback's game that persist into future fantasy scoring but that other metrics aren't capturing, it stands to reason that the difference between QBR and traditional stats will predict value buys in fantasy leagues. For example, if two quarterbacks have similar passer ratings but very different QBRs, the player with the superior QBR should score more fantasy points next season -- but fantasy owners hung up on conventional stats aren't likely to recognize that fact.
In 2010, a handful of quarterbacks had much higher (or lower) QBRs than we would estimate just from looking at their passer ratings. If my theory is correct, the collection of skills that QBR picked up among these players should be translating into surprisingly good (or poor) fantasy scoring this season. Lo and behold, Eli Manning was No. 1 on the outperform list (bingo), with Matt Ryan at No. 2 and Drew Brees at No. 4. (Sadly for Colts fans, the top five also included Peyton Manning and Kerry Collins.) Meanwhile, the bottom five included Jay Cutler, Matt Cassel and three guys who lost their jobs (Jimmy Clausen, Favre and Jon Kitna).
The connection isn't absolute, but it's there. QBR points to future fantasy points. And QBR relative to other stats points to fantasy breakouts and declines.
This season, Hasselback ranks fourth in the league with a 72.6 QBR, but just 11th in passer rating, while Ryan is ninth in QBR (64.4) but just 18th in passer rating. Our analysis suggests they are both likely to score a lot of fantasy points in 2012. So keep them! Also better this season than they appear under the light of conventional metrics: Cassel and Joe Flacco.
In contrast, Alex Smith has posted a passer rating of 97.3, sixth best in the NFL, but a QBR of just 42.8, ranking 24th in the league. That gap is by far the biggest among starting QBs, and points to a poor fantasy season in 2012 for Smith. Also likely to score fewer points than this year's official numbers would indicate: Mark Sanchez, Kevin Kolb and Matthew Stafford. Unload accordingly!
Week 17 of the 2012 season is a long way away, so mark your calendars now. You'll want to remember to thank us when you win your fantasy league's trophy.

Taking QB stats to the Next Level:

• The thing about a big-play offense is you have to generate big plays: Michael Vick (QBR this week: 42.7) was an awful 4-of-15 for just 77 yards when throwing 11 or more yards downfield on Monday night. Vick targeted DeSean Jackson four times on attempts of more than 10 yards, but never hit him.
• After spending most of the first half of the season under incredible duress, Cutler (QBR this week: 83.0) has taken just three sacks in the past three games, and the Eagles didn't put him on the ground at all. With less pressure to deal with, the Bears' offense looks completely different. So why the turnaround? Let us count the ways. First, Cutler is making better decisions against the blitz. Against Philadelphia, he was 6-for-7 against five or more pass-rushers, and completed a couple of wacky but effective passes, where he managed to hang in just long enough to get off a sling or a shovel. Second, at critical moments, Cutler is taking shorter drops. On Sunday night, he took a five-step drop on 11 of 32 pass attempts. And three times, including twice in the end zone, he took a three-step drop. On those attempts, he was 3-for-3 with two TDs. Finally, Cutler has Earl Bennett back. Cutler likes his fellow Commodores alum so much that he went back to Vanderbilt to throw for Bennett's pro day, and against the Eagles, he hit Bennett on five out of five targets for 95 yards. Maybe even more important, Bennett had 47 yards after the catch on those receptions.
• Often, it's not who you blitz, but whom you blitz: Green Bay sent five or more pass-rushers against the Chargers on 54.2 percent of Philip Rivers' dropbacks, and on 63.6 percent in the fourth quarter. And the pressure got to Rivers (QBR this week: 31.3): he completed just 52 percent of his passes for 7.8 yards per attempt and three huge interceptions against extra pressure, while he connected for 9.0 yards per attempt, four TDs and no picks against four or fewer rushers. But when the Chargers tried to blitz Aaron Rodgers (QBR this week: 94.5), he torched them for three touchdowns in just seven pass attempts.
• When it comes to tracking quarterbacks for record-setting performances in 2011, Rodgers rightly draws most of the world's attention, but Brees (QBR this week: 87.9) now has 3,004 passing yards, the most ever for any QB through the first nine games of a season.
• Completing 66.7 percent of your passes sounds good: But not when you're Tom Brady and you're throwing short. The Patriots are such a pass-heavy offense that New England requires Brady to operate at extremely high efficiency on short throws -- the kind of plays where most teams run in order to keep the chains moving. Through the Pats' first eight games of the year, Brady completed 75.3 percent of his throws on passes of 10 yards or fewer, for 6.9 yards per attempt. But, hassled all afternoon by an effective mix of what Tom Coughlin called "blitzing and not blitzing," Brady (QBR this week: 56.3) hit just two-thirds of his short-distance targets against the Giants, for only 5.7 yards per attempt. The difference was critical on third down, where the Patriots usually convert at a rate of more than 50 percent, but Brady was just 2-for-5 on passes of 10 yards or fewer.
• There's been a lot of talk about how the Jets are getting after opposing QBs like it's 2009 all over again. The numbers show that they have indeed regained their effectiveness while blitzing -- but also that they're blitzing far less often than they used to, so there's more to the story. See this interesting post by John McTigue for details.
• "Yes, but" -- yet again: With 18 minutes left against the Raiders, Denver trailed Oakland 24-17. How did the Broncos come back to win? Willis McGahee had a 60-yard touchdown run. Eddie Royal returned a punt 85 yards for another TD. And Tim Tebow (QBR this week: 36.9) rushed four times for one first down and took two sacks. Draw your own conclusions.
• This time around, Ben Roethlisberger figured out the Ravens: Big Ben (QBR this week: 80.2) threw 15 or more yards downfield on 32.4 percent of his attempts, and connected on 66.7 percent of his deep throws, for 12.8 yards per attempt and a touchdown. All of those numbers were up dramatically from the Steelers' first encounter with the Ravens, when Roethlisberger threw deep on just 19.5 percent of his attempts, completed only 25 percent of his passes and threw a pick.
• But Flacco figured out the Steelers even better: Flacco (QBR this week: 80.5) disposed of Pittsburgh's cover packages and nickel defense with ease, completing 67.7 percent of his passes for 8.6 yards per attempt and a TD when the Steelers dropped five or more men into the secondary. But even as Flacco was piling up 267 of his 300 passing yards against five or more defensive backs, Pittsburgh kept deploying those formations; the Steelers used five or more DBs on 33 of Flacco's dropbacks, including every play of the Ravens' game-winning, 92-yard touchdown drive.
• The race is getting tighter for Rookie of the Year! Since Week 5, Andy Dalton ranks in the top five QBs in the NFL with a QBR of 73.0, slightly ahead of Cam Newton (QBR over that span: 72.4).

HacheMan · Nov 9, 2011

Ranks reax: Don't overrate CJ2K, D-Jax

Eric Karabell

I'm writing this on Wednesday but with an eye toward Thursday, because on Friday, a lot of unhappy fantasy owners will ask some variation of the following question: "Wait, there was an NFL game last night?" Why yes, there was -- ahem, will be -- and based on the Week 10 rankings, I'm expecting big things from San Diego Chargers quarterback Philip Rivers and his top two running backs as well as from Michael Bush on the Oakland Raiders side.

First of all, most of you can wait until Sunday morning to finalize lineups, but I am aware that in some leagues, they lock after the first game begins. Well, the first game is Thursday until Week 17, when many of you will have already started talking fantasy baseball (or, we hope, fantasy hoops!). But I have to admit that quite a few of these Thursday tilts don't have much surprise fantasy appeal. For example, how many Seattle Seahawks will you trust against the Philadelphia Eagles (Dec. 1)? Any Cleveland Browns in Pittsburgh (Dec. 8)? How about those Jacksonville Jaguars in Atlanta ((Dec. 15)?

But this week, there are many decisions, and I think they begin with Bush. As of this writing, Raiders starting running back Darren McFadden, a star when healthy but not regularly healthy enough to be a full-season star, has not been officially ruled out for the game. That could change any minute. Regardless, I don't think he will play through his foot injury. McFadden last saw significant work in Week 6. Bush is arguably one of the top two or three handcuff running backs around, owned in nearly all leagues, and as we saw in Week 9, he's fully capable of handling a large rushing load. In fact, Bush has four double-digit fantasy performances this season. Meanwhile, the Chargers aren't particularly adept at stopping anything, making Bush a solid RB2 option this week.
Then there are the Chargers' running backs, who have been an ongoing soap opera this season. Ryan Mathews missed Week 9 because of a groin injury, and he hasn't done much for fantasy owners since Week 5 at Denver. Well, I expect him to do plenty on Thursday. He's listed as probable, which is good enough for me to return him to safe RB2 status. Mike Tolbert, no bastion of durability himself, is a strong flex choice. He missed Week 8 because of various ailments, but he scored the week before and the week after. He's more of an all-or-nothing option than Mathews, though.
When it comes to the wide receivers in this tilt, be careful overrating what you did -- and didn't -- see in Week 9. We have the interception kings slingin' it in this game, so don't be surprised if the football keeps changing hands. Nobody in the NFL has thrown more picks than Rivers this season, although I still believe he's a top-10 guy. Carson Palmer has thrown six interceptions in a game and a half on 56 attempts. Wow! I don't trust Palmer as anything close to a fantasy starter, especially in a week without byes, nor am I totally giving up on Darrius Heyward-Bey, the talented young wide receiver who was ignored in Week 9. "Hey-Bey" averaged more than 10 fantasy points per game from Weeks 4-7, then there was the bye week, and in Palmer's first start, Jacoby Ford and Denarius Moore were the busy ones. It's one game. I ranked Ford and Moore a bit worse than the staff average and was the only one to keep Heyward-Bey ranked, although it was down at No. 47. I just can't take a one-game sample size and presume it's the new Oakland hierarchy.
One other Thursday night thought: I still use my best fantasy options regardless of day or time they play. I know some people want to watch their players -- and can in national telecasts Thursday, Sunday night, Monday -- so they tend to activate them over better statistical options. I never understood that. Others feel that "getting 15 points from Palmer out of the way Thursday" is some advantage and scares their opponent into silly Sunday morning decisions. Yeah, I'm not buying that, either. I think Rivers and Jackson, Bush and Mathews, Antonio Gates and both kickers -- yikes, did I just use the word "kickers"? -- are good choices. When the game is played doesn't matter for lineup decisions when it comes to Thursday games. Loving the Cowboys: What exactly about the Buffalo Bills' defense scares opponents or fantasy owners? I think even if Felix Jones is recovered from his ankle injury and plays this week, DeMarco Murray is the lead running back. He's averaging 3.14 yards after contact this season and 6.7 yards per rush in all, each the best marks in the league, and I don't think the Bills can change that for the better. I was the only one to rank Murray in the top 10, and I appeared to be cautious, in relation to others, in ranking Dez Bryant and Laurent Robinson. I don't assume Bryant explodes into Larry Fitzgerald territory this week just because Miles Austin is out. Three of us, including yours truly, have Jason Witten as the top tight end.

Titan in name only: Three rankers have Chris Johnson at No. 11. And I have him 18th. Look, it wasn't that great a performance in Week 9, and I think the Tennessee Titans underachiever is setting us up for disappointment again. It is a favorable matchup against the Carolina Panthers, who are allowing the most fantasy points to opposing running backs, but didn't Johnson manage four fantasy points against the equally awful Indianapolis Colts two weeks ago? This is a not a guaranteed double-digit fantasy performance pending. Phailing: It's a wise time to deal for underachieving Eagles receiver DeSean Jackson, but I didn't rank him among my top 20 wide receivers for the week despite a juicy matchup with the Arizona Cardinals pending. Jackson has eight catches in the past three games and for the season has fewer fantasy points than Early Doucet and Nate Washington, among others. You likely drafted Jackson as a weekly start, thinking the contract push would ignite him, but he has disappointed. I like Jeremy Maclin more, although I didn't join colleagues in making him a top-10 choice in Week 10. This is mainly the LeSean McCoy show, in my mind.

HacheMan · Nov 10, 2011

The Plaxico Burress "W-A-M" All-Stars

By Matthew Berry
ESPN.com

Of course.

Of course he did. Of course. Offff course!

That was my reaction. Three different times. Hands up in the air, an exasperated sigh and a shaking of the head.

Of course Plaxico Burress scored a touchdown. And another. And another. It was back in Week 7, just before I had put Plaxico on my hate list. I had also gone on "Fantasy Football Now" that morning and said not only would I not start him, but I would have no trouble dropping him.

He had three straight weeks of four fantasy points or fewer, and a big fat zero in Week 2. He had a total of eight receptions and 91 total yards in three games. Eight for 91 is a good game. It's not a good three games. He wasn't being targeted very much, the Jets were running more, and to me, he was frankly looking like a 34-year-old wide receiver who had been out of the league for a while.

It's my job to make a call on every single fantasy-relevant player every week. That's more than 250 players a week when there are no byes, whether I end up ranking them or not. And then I talk about the players on many platforms, including this column and on TV on Sunday morning.

Given the quantity of calls I make, it is impossible to get them all right, but that's obviously my hope. More importantly, I hope I don't swing and miss as badly as I did on Plax that week. Arghhhh! Plaxico is what we refer to on our podcast as a "Fantasy Whac-A-Mole." You remember Whac-A-Mole, right? The old arcade game in which plastic moles pop out randomly and you try to hit them with a big rubber hammer. When will it pop up? When will it be down? It happens in an instant and the constant up and down is a challenge.

Plaxico is like that. You start him, start him, start him … nothing. You finally get fed up and bench him and bam! Three touchdowns. Thanks, Plaxico. Oh, and thanks Norv Turner, for playing soft single coverage on a 6-foot-5 red zone target. Three straight times. What the hell, Norv? Argghh. It's not enough he killed my Redskins for eight years. He keeps finding new ways. Make no mistake. Norv will be the death of me.

I can't tell you how many times I hear about it or have had it happen. You stick with a guy as long as possible, finally bench him and then that's the game he goes off? Or the converse, you have some guy at the end of your bench who keeps producing. You think it's fluky so you keep him on your bench. Then, you finally give in and start him, aaaaand ... nothing. Everything you feared about that player pulling a vanishing act turns out to be true, at least for that week.

Fantasy Whac-A-Mole. Drives you up a wall. My colleague Tristan Cockroft does a terrific column every week about consistency (the anti-moles) and I highly recommend it to discover trends and avoid this very symptom. Because Plaxico drives me nuts. Bananas. Any other food that means insane.
So, with the help of my Facebook friend and in honor of Plaxico, (whom I bet everyone starts this week against New England and he'll do absolutely nothing in a great matchup, just because), here, now, is your 2011 All-Fantasy Whac-A-Mole team.

At quarterback, Matt Schaub of the Houston Texans: Four weeks of 12 points or fewer, at least 17 points in every other game , his second- and third-highest scoring games came without Andre Johnson, including his only 400-yard game this year. Of course it did. (Honorable mentions: Matt Ryan, Tony Romo, Philip Rivers).

Your first running back, Marshawn Lynch of the Seattle Seahawks: Beast mode? How about Least Mode? 'Cause it's one or the other. Double-digits in three games, six or fewer in four games, including the Browns game. You remember the Browns game. Where he was announced as active but then was a scratch during warm-ups. What?!? It's warm-ups. Do some stretching and light jogging. How are you announced as active and then scratched? What the hell was that?? No, really, I'm actually asking. Did I lose by 0.3 points in a week when I had Lynch active? You bet your Tom Brady bobblehead collection I did. I love Pete Carroll's noting that Lynch wasn't on the injury report that week "but maybe he should have been." YOU THINK?

Also at running back, BenJarvus Green-Ellis of the New England Patriots: Perhaps no one's highs are as high or lows as low as the Law Firm's, who has a zero-point game, a one-point game (against the Bills!), two sixes … and then a 26-point game and two 13-point games. Of course. Of course my guy is on Bill Belichick's bench while Kevin Faulk (Kevin Faulk!) is on the field every play. You know, the career third-down guy who was just off the PUP list and was inactive the next week. Yeah, that guy. (Honorable mention: Chris Johnson, Rashard Mendenhall, Beanie Wells, Reggie Bush and the Panthers' running backs).

At wide receiver, Brandon Marshall of the Miami Dolphins: Four games of fewer than six points, four double-digit games. He has fewer than six against the Chargers and then puts up more than 100 yards against Darrelle Revis in a game he tells everyone he wants to get thrown out of. Who is the bigger knucklehead? Marshall, or the guy who keeps trying to figure him out?

Also at wide receiver, Marques Colston of the New Orleans Saints: Here's his standard points game logs: 6, 0, 6, 17, 21, 5, 5. Yeah, that makes sense. I know Drew Brees spreads it around, but so does Brady, and Wes Welker is fairly consistent, as are the Patriots' tight ends. Colston is clearly the best wideout on the team and he and Jimmy Graham are the best pass-catchers. But his last two stinkers were against the Rams and Bucs. Dude. We forgave the broken collarbone. Injuries are part of the risk in drafting you. We get it. But the highs, the lows -- you're a fantasy schizophrenic. (Honorable mention: DeSean Jackson, Miles Austin).

In the "Flex" position: the Washington Redskins' running back corps: And the reason for that, of course, is that the Head Coach For Life of the Fantasy Whac-a-Moles is none other than your pal and mine, Michael Shanahan.

The tight end is Jermichael Finley of the Green Bay Packers: Nothing, nothing, three touchdowns, nothing, nothing, nothing, touchdown, touchdown. I'm sorry. Aren't you a physical beast who is a matchup problem for any defense? Aren't you on the highest-scoring team in the league with the hottest quarterback at the helm? Every other Packer is scoring, but somehow Aaron Rodgers and his over-70 percent pass completion rate can't find the 6-foot-5 guy in the open field? Of course. That makes total sense. (Honorable mention: Vernon Davis, Dallas Clark.)
These guys all drive me nuts and I don't feel a single one of them can be trusted. As we head toward the trade deadline, many of these guys have a lot of value. And all of them should be dealt away, if you can get that value. I don't trust a one of them and when I get to the fantasy playoffs, I want as close to sure things as I can find. Actually, that's true in many aspects of life. But especially in fantasy football.

As you start working the trade lines, I'll dive in Love/Hate for Week 10. Usual caveats: This is not a pure start/sit column, it's about guys I like more or less this week in comparison to their typical output this season. You can still start a "hate" or bench a "love." Use your brain. Make sure you check the Friday ranks, remember there is a game Thursday and here's to no Whac-A-Moles this week.

Week 10 Players I Love

Michael Vick, QB, Eagles: If not at home versus the Cardinals, then when? You know, the amazing thing is that the whole argument against Vick in the preseason was the injury risk. And yet, he's played every game this year. Even if you didn't buy into my "He's No. 1" argument, he was still a consensus first-rounder almost across the board and no one questioned he'd put up big numbers. The argument was the health. Come on, Michael. There's only so long I can hang on, you know?

Philip Rivers, QB, Chargers: I'm the highest on him among our rankers and here's why: He's passed for 369 and 385 yards the past two weeks, and much has been made of Rivers' career numbers in November (in short, he's a lot better). The issue has been the turnovers, but the Raiders are just 19th in the NFL in interceptions with seven, and they allow the sixth-most fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks. And do I think Carson Palmer turns it over a few times, giving Rivers a short field? Yeah. I do.

Tim Tebow, QB, Broncos: Death. Taxes. Me being the highest among the rankers when it comes to Tebow. But come on … Tebow against a defense that just gave up three scores to Matt Moore? Me likey. Now that I think about it, the Chiefs' defense is a fantasy Whac-A-Mole, too. The Chiefs won't be unprepared for Tebow running option plays the way Oakland was, but he's a lock for at least 60 yards rushing. Assume he throws for at least 100 yards and a score and you're already at 14 points. The biggest issue with Tebow, of course, is that he takes too many sacks and is inaccurate. Well, Kansas City is dead last in sacks with nine and, as Paul Carr from ESPN Stats & Information points outs, when not under duress, Tebow's completion percentage is 55 percent compared with 29 percent when he is pressured. He will have time and that bodes well.

Mark Sanchez, QB, Jets: Two scores when they played the Pats in New England, he is the only quarterback not to throw for more than 250 yards against the Patriots this season. That changes this week, as the Jets getting back to "ground and pound" is actually good for Sanchez. When the team runs effectively, Sanchez can go play-action, and when he does? Yummy. That's right. I said yummy. I'm a 14-year-old girl. What do you want from me? Check out this Next Level stat from the studs over at ESPN Stats & Information:

Mark Sanchez Passing

<TABLE><THEAD><TR><TH>2011 Season </TH><TH>Play Action </TH><TH>No Play Action </TH></TR><TBODY><TR class=last><TD>Completion Percentage </TD><TD>61.2 </TD><TD>56.3 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Yards per Attempt </TD><TD>8.6 </TD><TD>6.3 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>Touchdowns to Interceptions </TD><TD>5-2 </TD><TD>8-5 </TD></TR><TR class=last><TD>First Down percentage </TD><TD>43.3 </TD><TD>29.7 </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

If you're desperate for a quarterback: Off a bye and likely to have to throw, Christian Ponder wouldn't be the first (or fourth) quarterback to have a big fantasy day in junk time against the Packers. It'll be a lot of dink and dunk, but it's hard to run on Miami, so I could see John Beck with a double-digit game against the Dolphins.

DeMarco Murray, RB, Cowboys: With Miles Austin hurt and Murray being good and all, I'm optimistic the Cowboys are aware that the Bills allow 4.6 yards per carry. Going Next Level with ESPN Stats and Info tells us that Murray is averaging 3.1 yards per rush after contact this season, best among running backs with at least 40 attempts. By comparison, Adrian Peterson averages 2.7 yards after contact.

Michael Bush, RB, Raiders: Here's what I wrote about him a week ago: "In his career, Bush has eight games where he has gotten at least 16 rushing attempts. He has at least 90 yards rushing in seven of them." You may now update that to eight of nine games.

Willis McGahee, RB, Broncos: Since the start of the 2010 season, the Broncos average fewer than 100 yards rushing a game when Tebow doesn't start. With Tebow as the starter? More than 170 rushing yards a game. Much in the way that Vick's mobility has helped open up huge holes for McCoy (I believe the stat I kept quoting in the preseason about McCoy was that he averaged 5.6 yards per carry with Vick in, but 3.6 with Kolb), so too has been the case for running backs with Tebow. With McGahee expected to get the majority of work, he's a solid play against a Chiefs defense that allows the sixth-most fantasy points to opposing running backs.

Roy Helu, RB, Redskins: I know. I know, OK? I know. When it comes to Redskins running backs, I am Charlie Brown trying to kick the football. I'm the dork holding the pretty girl's coat hoping to "friend" my way into her heart. I am the sucker P.T. Barnum told you about. I'm a fish, constantly getting hooked. I'm the idiot who just wrote 1,200 words about fantasy Whac-A-Moles and is now recommending one of them. I am not rational or objective here. Proceed with extreme caution. You are on your own. But … as I mentioned in the "desperate QB" section, Miami has a pretty good run defense, which means Beck will have to pass a lot. But he can't throw deep. Which means a lot of check-downs to Helu, who had 14 catches last week. I like Helu as a flex play this week. But keep in mind, I'm a glutton for punishment.

Ben Tate, RB, Texans: More than 100 yards in two of the past three weeks. And if we learned anything last week, it's that both Texans running backs can produce points when it's going well. With Gerald McCoy out for Tampa Bay (they've allowed 800 total yards and seven scores to opposing running backs the past four weeks), it's going to go well.

If you're desperate for a running back: Chris Ivory got the majority of carries for the Saints last week, and assuming Mark Ingram is out, he could easily get a score against the Falcons. Marion Barber now has a touchdown in three straight and in four of his past five, and Kendall Hunter may be in line for more work if Frank Gore's still banged up.)

Jeremy Maclin, WR, Eagles: The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again, expecting different results, right? So fine. I'm insane. Whatever. We already knew that. It's the Cardinals. I'm sticking to my guns.

Anquan Boldin, WR, Ravens: Boldin is top-10 in targets, the Seahawks are top-10 in fantasy points allowed to opposing wide receivers; I like the math here. Seattle has a good run defense, especially at home. You're still starting Rice, of course, but Joe Flacco may have to throw a bit more in this one, and when he does, Boldin is the guy who will get the love.

Julio Jones, WR, Falcons. He's fast, son. Country fast. No, I have no idea what that means, but if I spend time thinking about it, he's already gone.

Jordy Nelson, WR, Packers: According to our friends at Football Outsiders, the Vikings are 29th in the NFL against No. 2 wide receivers. And this is Aaron Rodgers' No. 2 wide receiver.

Antonio Brown, WR, Steelers: The targets continue to pile up, as do the yards, the fantasy production and the crowd on the bandwagon. Somehow still available in 53 percent of leagues.

If you're desperate for a wide receiver: Jason Hill has a touchdown or 60 yards in four straight games, and you always like a wideout against Indy. Jabar Gaffney returns to Florida to face Miami's 27th-ranked pass defense and is averaging six points a game since John Beck took over. Denarius Moore had 61 yards last week. Even better? He got 12 targets from Carson Palmer.

Owen Daniels, TE, Texans: Still a focal point of the passing game (leads the Texans in targets, receptions and yards), and the Buccaneers allow the sixth-most fantasy points to opposing tight ends.

Greg Olsen, TE, Panthers: It's not like Cam Newton is gonna hand it off.

Brandon Pettigrew, TE, Lions: He had 39 yards and a score the last time he faced Chicago, and the Bears allow the most fantasy points to opposing tight ends. And with Detroit still struggling to run the ball (an issue that figures to not improve against Chicago), Pettigrew will be the de facto running game with short passes underneath that all add up to a solid day.

If you're desperate for a tight end: Visanthe Shiancoe scored the last time he faced the Packers, and certainly, the young quarterback will be looking for him. Jared Cook has at least 40 yards or a touchdown in five straight games and the Panthers are in the upper half of fantasy points allowed to tight ends.

Jacksonville Jaguars D/ST: Haven't had negative points yet (something even the Jets' D can't say), and they've had two weeks to prepare for a Colts team that is giving up the third most fantasy points to opposing defenses. The Jags are available in 96 percent of leagues.

Week 10 Players I Hate

Tony Romo, QB, Cowboys: Chances are you are starting him -- I only "hate" him as a top-10 play this week. But the Cowboys have been fairly conservative with Romo, as he's been averaging just 216 passing yards the past three weeks. No Miles Austin and the Bills are allowing opposing quarterbacks just 11 points a game on the road this season. As seen in "love," I expect Dallas to lean on DeMarco Murray and the run game, putting Romo just outside my top 10 this week.

Ryan Fitzpatrick, QB, Bills: I'm a Rob Ryan believer. It's also been five weeks since Fitzy had more than 14 points, making him a low-end No. 2 on the road at Dallas.

Brandon Jacobs, RB, Giants: The 49ers have not allowed a touchdown to an opposing running back at home all year. Don't think it starts this week.

Jackie Battle, RB, Chiefs: Jackie's total yards the last four games: 140, 76, 70, 49. I'm no numbers whiz, but that strikes me as trending in the wrong direction. Only Darren McFadden and Ryan Mathews have gone for more than 100 yards rushing against Denver, which is not an elite run defense but is better than you think. Battle, on the other hand, isn't.

Marshawn Lynch, RB, Seahawks: Least mode!

Jonathan Stewart, RB, Panthers: The only thing I know about the Panthers' running backs is that neither is named Cam.
James Starks, RB, Packers: Remember Week 2? Ah, glorious Week 2 -- when Starks had 11 fantasy points, which tied his season high. Despite the big leads and high-powered offense, Starks has yet to get more than 13 carries in any game this year, he's had single-digit fantasy points in six straight games, and the Vikings actually are a decent run defense. As I've mentioned before, I get these game notes from the team PR people about various players. They are always super-positive and I tend not to use them very much because they are rarely relevant or, if they are, they are fairly obvious. Here's all Green Bay PR machine could come up with on Starks: Including the playoffs, Starks has played in 15 games and Green Bay is 14-1. You mean, just like … everyone else on the Packers who have played the past 15 games? Yeah. Attendance. That's what they are pitching on Starks. He's played.

The Normal Top-10 Guys: Lots of guys who would normally be top-10 whom I have lower than that, and lower than my counterparts, and it's all due to matchups. Don't love Larry Fitzgerald with (most likely) John Skelton throwing to him on the road at Philly and Nnamdi Asomugha all over him. I've seen Champ Bailey shut down Dwayne Bowe before and expect him to do it somewhat this week. A.J. Green against Ike Taylor, Brandon Lloyd against Joe Haden … both would usually be in or close to my top 10, and you're probably still starting them, but I would lower expectations.

Percy Harvin, WR, Vikings: I have no idea what he is doing inside the top 26 ranks of my fellow rankers. I love his talent, no question. But he's just not a huge part of the offense. He hasn't caught a receiving touchdown yet. Maybe they figured out more ways to get him more involved in the offense over the bye week. I sure hope so. But until I see it, I can't recommend a guy who has had under 60 yards receiving in five of his last six games, six of his last eight, scored in his last game on a run (hard to count on those when your teammate is Adrian Peterson) and, while I know everyone loves the matchup, he had one, count 'em, one fantasy point in Week 7 when they first faced Green Bay, and that was at home, and with Christian Ponder at quarterback (he threw for 219 and 2, so it's not like the receiving game was starving).

Mike Williams, WR, Buccaneers: Wanted to put him in the Fantasy Whac-A-Moles list, but to be on it, you need to have been both good and bad. He's just never been good. Sigh. At this point, he's a No. 3 wideout/low-end flex play. Now watch him go off for three touchdowns.

Vernon Davis, TE, 49ers: A total of four fantasy points in his past three games, and the 49ers run too many two-tight-end sets designed to spring Gore one way or the other to consider Davis a top-10 play. Especially against the Giants, who have allowed the sixth-fewest fantasy points to opposing tight ends this season.

Kellen Winslow, TE, Buccaneers: The Texans are also very strong against the tight end, as Graham is the only opposing tight end to get double-digits fantasy points against them all season.

HacheMan · Nov 10, 2011

Players to sell: Vincent Jackson, Big Ben ...

Eric Karabell

With the ESPN trade deadline coming up in less than two weeks (Nov. 24th at noon ET), fantasy owners are running out of time to improve their teams via the trade route. Of course, there are always free agents to sign, but chances are Tim Tebow, DeMarco Murray and Michael Crabtree are gone in your leagues, and while Carson Palmer, Roy Helu and Laurent Robinson are available, they probably won't be winning you fantasy championships. It comes down to making smart trades.

Approaching trade talks with the main goal being to rob another owner is not a recommended course of action. For one, even if you do manage to pry a stud from a fellow owner for a collection of barely usable parts, it has a tendency to backfire with other league members. In most cases, you must part with something to get something, and that's where this blog entry comes in, focusing on dealing valuable players who have already provided their best statistics.
A few weeks ago, I targeted players to buy low, and in a few cases we've already seen positive signs from those players. That's a beautiful thing. Now let's focus on players to sell high on, though let me preface that your first concern should be fixing your team, not rooting against those you send packing. Here are players to part with, and let's just say Matt Moore, Brandon Jacobs and Earl Bennett, a few of the Week 9 fantasy heroes, aren't eligible. Same with fellows such as Sam Bradford (bad), Jahvid Best (hurt) and Chad Ochocinco (nonexistent). To me, to sell high on a player, the value needs to be higher than normal, and his final season rank will be lower than it currently is.

Ben Roethlisberger, QB, Pittsburgh Steelers: Currently one point out of the overall top 10 for standard scoring and tied for seventh among quarterbacks with Eli Manning, Big Ben comes off a stretch of three consecutive 300-yard passing games and six touchdown passes. It's not exactly Steelers football, but two of the teams he skewered were the Arizona Cardinals and New England Patriots, and everyone throws on them. Look, I like Roethlisberger. He struggled early in the season, averaging 10 points per game into Week 5, and now the Steelers are throwing far more. But here's the thing: Historically, Roethlisberger's worst month for completion percentage is December. His touchdowns per game are higher in October and November. Perhaps weather plays a role, or the Steelers just like to run more -- though don't necessarily buy low on Rashard Mendenhall -- but I couldn't help but notice Pittsburgh's pending schedule. The Steelers play the Bengals and Browns twice in the final seven games, and those teams rank sixth and third, respectively, in preventing fantasy points to quarterbacks. I don't see Roethlisberger keeping his current pace going.
Also selling: Can't say I expect production from Matt Schaub to really improve much even when Andre Johnson returns. The Houston Texans are runnin' wild! Also, investing in any rookie quarterback not named Cam Newton is not wise. More on that in a moment.
Darren Sproles, RB, New Orleans Saints: No running back is catching passes at his level this season -- not even LeSean McCoy or Matt Forte -- but it's worth noting the Saints reintroduced last year's leading rusher, Chris Ivory, into the fray recently, and I doubt this helps Sproles get rushing attempts. He has just 10 of them over the past two weeks. It's risky to presume Sproles will continue performing at this rate with Mark Ingram, Pierre Thomas and Ivory around, plus Sproles and his pals still have a bye week pending. That affects his value, too. Sproles is the No. 8 running back in fantasy scoring this season, but I think he ends up in the 15-17 range.
Steven Jackson, RB, Rams: Health and schedule are the main factors for me on Jackson, and the team's 1-7 record doesn't help, either. Jackson played all 16 games last season, the first time he had done so since 2006, but he didn't close well, averaging 50 rushing yards in the final three games. Hey, the guy is 28 years old. The Rams are going nowhere, but have to face four top-10 defenses against the run (for fantasy purposes) in the final five games (49ers twice, Seahawks and Bengals), and the other game is against the Steelers. Plus, Jackson missed time earlier this season because of a quad injury and missed practice earlier this week with a foot issue, and he has just one game this season with more than 14 fantasy points, a 30-point explosion against the Saints. Be very careful here. Also selling: It's a week late to move Beanie Wells at his peak, but I don't see him finishing the season in the top 12 among running backs, as he is now. I'd also see if you can persuade another owner that Reggie Bush will keep running so well; Daniel Thomas is Miami's running back of the future.

A.J. Green, WR, Cincinnati Bengals: Ah, rookies. This one has been tremendous, entering Week 10 seventh in standard scoring among wide receivers. His quarterback, Andy Dalton, is also playing well, though he's not nearly as valuable in fantasy. The problem here is Dalton, Green and pals still have four games left with the Steelers and Ravens, top defensive teams, and another game with those pesky Browns, fantasy's top team against wide receivers. (That's hard to believe, isn't it?) Well, I'm more worried about Dalton than Green, but add it up and Green is an obvious choice to tail off some.
Vincent Jackson, WR, San Diego Chargers: A few weeks ago I had quarterback Philip Rivers on the buy-low side, and that has looked good. But this is a case in which the inconsistent wide receiver scares me. Jackson went nuts for 32 fantasy points against the Green Bay Packers in Week 9, scoring three touchdowns and catching 141 yards worth of passes. But the Packers are the NFC version of the Patriots against the pass. I actually like the Chargers' schedule from here on out, but Jackson is too all or nothing to me. Yes, he's liable to blow up in one of your fantasy playoff weeks, but as the AFC version of DeSean Jackson, he has way too many dreadful performances. The Chargers receiver has five games of six or fewer fantasy points. He's sixth in season scoring at wide receiver solely because of the Packers game and Week 2, when he skewered the aforementioned Patriots for 29 fantasy points. He has scored 33 points in the other six games combined. Relying on the big games is dangerous.
Also selling: I seriously doubt Denver's Eric Decker finishes two points out of the top 10, given the Broncos' schedule and Tebow spending more time running than throwing. Jordy Nelson, Victor Cruz and Pierre Garcon also seem unlikely to end up in the top 15, as they are now.
Tony Gonzalez, TE, Atlanta Falcons: I hate picking on him because he remains productive at 35 years old, but check the game log and you'll see four of his five touchdowns came in the first four games. He scored on the college-like Indy Colts in Week 9, making now the perfect time to move him. Tight end is fantasy's deepest position. I talked about Jake Ballard, Jermaine Gresham and even Brent Celek recently as adds, but in leagues in which one can activate just one tight end, most teams have a starter and don't think about improving the spot. Well, see if you can move your starter, because sitting on free agency might be someone just as productive. Gonzalez is currently fourth in tight end scoring, an easy selling point, but not top 10 over the past month. You can leave that part out but still deal in good faith. OK, best of luck in your trading pursuits for Week 10 and beyond!

HacheMan · Nov 10, 2011

Scheduling for Success

The NFL season is a grind for serious fantasy owners. We scratch, claw and fight for every edge over the course of four months in an effort to get to our league’s playoffs. So imagine our frustration when we get to the playoffs and realize we have awful matchups. It’s like finding a new pair of boxers under the Christmas tree.

Now that we’re more than halfway through the season, we can safely make some conclusions when it comes to defenses. Here are some general thoughts.

* Darrelle Revis still shuts down opponents’ No. 1 receivers. Heading into last week, quarterbacks had a 2.9 passer rating when throwing at Revis and he had allowed just 10 receptions with one touchdown.

* The Steelers and Ravens remain elite. It’s easy to say that it’s a given these two units will be dominant every year, but they still have to do it. They are both in the top-6 in terms of scoring defense and run defense.

* The Colts’ defense is chicken soup for sick offenses. Their tiny secondary has no shot against big receivers and their speedy front seven is built to rush the passer with a lead, not play from behind. Yeah, they miss Peyton Manning too.

* The Rams’ run defense is among the worst we’ve seen. They are giving up 153.6 yards per game at 5.2 yards per carry. There’s no way to sugarcoat that.

OK, so with those general thoughts in mind, let’s get to the best and worst matchups. Since the majority of playoffs go down in Weeks 15 and 16, I am limiting the rankings to those two weeks.

TEAMS WITH GOOD MATCHUPS IN WEEKS 15 AND 16
1. TEXANS: vs. Panthers, at Colts -- It’s a bonanza for Arian Foster, who consistently shreds soft matchups. The Texans will likely be protecting a big lead in both spots and neither defense can stop the run. The Panthers are currently 27th against the run while the Colts are 31st.

2. BENGALS: at Rams, vs. Cardinals -- Even an unimpressive plodder like Cedric Benson will have quality RB2 status in these matchups. And rookie A.J. Green will have the potential for an explosion as well -- especially against the Rams. That one will be in a dome and the Rams’ secondary has been demolished by injury.

3. PATRIOTS: at Broncos, vs. Dolphins -- Yep, the rich get richer. For those trying to predict touches in New England’s backfield, it’s worth noting that BenJarvus Green-Ellis gets the majority of work when the Pats have a lead. It’s a good bet they’ll be winning for the majority of these two games.

4. TITANS: at Colts, vs. Jaguars -- We know how bad Chris Johnson has played this season. But in the seven weeks between now and Week 16, he’ll face the Panthers, Bucs, Bills, Colts and Jags. Contemplate that for a few minutes.

5. COWBOYS: at Bucs, vs. Eagles -- Neither of these teams can stop the run. By the time Week 15 rolls around, we’d expect DeMarco Murray to be the feature back and Felix Jones to be the third-down/change-of-pace option. It’s conceivable that both will be viable fantasy plays here.

TEAMS WITH BAD MATCHUPS IN WEEKS 15 AND 16
1. RAMS: vs. Bengals, at Steelers -- Yikes. Steven Jackson has no prayer of running through these physical defenses and we know he can’t run around them anymore. The weather in that Week 16 game is also a concern for Sam Bradford and company.

2. SEAHAWKS: at Bears, vs. 49ers -- I dare you to name one player on the Seahawks you’d like to start in these matchups. Just one! Can’t do it.

3. 49ERS: vs. Steelers, at Seahawks -- It’s going to be tough sledding for Frank Gore here. The Steelers are ranked sixth against the run and the Seahawks are second in yards per carry allowed at 3.4.

4. GIANTS: vs. Redskins, at Jets -- Although the ’Skins can’t move the ball, they can still get after it on defense. Hakeem Nicks will likely have to deal with DeAngelo Hall and Darrelle Revis in back-to-back weeks. Obviously the Revis game in potential bad weather is the biggest concern.

5.CHARGERS: vs. Ravens, at Lions -- It’s two very difficult matchups, but at least the weather will be good in both.

OK, let’s get to Wednesday’s news:

INJURY QUICK SLANTS: QBs and RBs
Frank Gore (ankle) appeared gimpy in practice. It’s something to watch. … Daniel Thomas (hamstring) is not even on the injury report. … Joe McKnight (toe) missed practice. … Joseph Addai (knee) missed practice. Expect Delone Carter and Donald Brown to share the load. … Beanie Wells (knee) was limited in practice. He figures to play at less than 100 percent Sunday. … Ryan Mathews (groin) will play Thursday. … Darren McFadden (foot) will not play Thursday. … Mark Ingram (heel) returned to practice and appears on track to return. Bad news for Chris Ivory. … Ahmad Bradshaw did not practice. Hard to see him back this week and his touches figure to be limited upon his return.

INJURY QUICK SLANTS: WRs, TEs and Ks
Hakeem Nicks (hamstring) is on track to play Sunday barring a setback. … Jermaine Gresham (hamstring) is on track to play Sunday. … Antonio Gates (foot) put in a full week of practice ahead of Thursday’s game. … The Rams activated Mark Clayton (knee) from the PUP list. He’ll eventually push Austin Pettis for snaps in the slot. … Jason Hanson (knee) is questionable. … Dustin Keller and Shonn Greene (head) are fine. … Sebastian Janikowski (hamstring) is far from 100 percent. Look elsewhere. … Andre Johnson (hamstring) did not run Wednesday. We wouldn’t expect to see him until after the Week 11 bye. … Lee Evans (ankle) got back in a limited practice. … Santana Moss (hand) is expected to miss another three weeks.

HacheMan · Nov 10, 2011

Week 10 Rankings
Denver didn't break out the zone-read last week. It was in the gameplan in smaller doses the previous two starts by Tim Tebow.

Even against the Raiders, the Broncos didn't over-use the concept. Tebow only ran three times out of the play, but he piled up 68 yards on those three plays.

Not even half of Willis McGahee's 16 runs came in the zone-read, but both of his late touchdowns came on the play. Defenders were two steps slow because they were afraid Tebow would take off with the ball.

After not having great success early in the game, McGahee busted out his 60-yard score, his 24-yard touchdown, and another 17-yard gain from the play late in the game.

It reminded me a lot of when the Dolphins broke out the Wildcat. They only used it six times, but it made a big impact. The Raiders defense was woefully unprepared and undisciplined defending it. The Chiefs will be more ready this week, but they are a team you can run against. Miami's line overpowered them.

Tebow's ability to get to the outside and out-run defenders is underrated. Michael Huff was surprised on a few plays Tebow beat him to the edge. The key thing here is that Denver is willing to let Tebow take some punishment. That should equal big rushing totals for the quarterback.

Week 10 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>vs. MIN</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>2</TD><TD>Michael Vick</TD><TD>vs. ARZ</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>3</TD><TD>Cam Newton</TD><TD>vs. TEN</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>4</TD><TD>Drew Brees</TD><TD>at ATL</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>5</TD><TD>Tom Brady</TD><TD>at NYJ</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>6</TD><TD>Philip Rivers</TD><TD>vs. OAK</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>7</TD><TD>Tony Romo</TD><TD>vs. BUF</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>8</TD><TD>Matthew Stafford</TD><TD>at CHI</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>9</TD><TD>Tim Tebow</TD><TD>at KC</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>10</TD><TD>Ben Roethlisberger</TD><TD>at CIN</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>11</TD><TD>Carson Palmer</TD><TD>at SD</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>12</TD><TD>Eli Manning</TD><TD>at SF</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>13</TD><TD>Matt Ryan</TD><TD>vs. NO</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>14</TD><TD>Jay Cutler</TD><TD>vs. DET</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>15</TD><TD>Joe Flacco</TD><TD>at SEA</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>16</TD><TD>Ryan Fitzpatrick</TD><TD>at DAL</TD><TD>Probable(chest)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>17</TD><TD>Matt Schaub</TD><TD>at TB</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>18</TD><TD>Matt Cassel</TD><TD>vs. DEN</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>19</TD><TD>Mark Sanchez</TD><TD>vs. NE</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>20</TD><TD>Josh Freeman</TD><TD>vs. HOU</TD><TD>Probable(thumb)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>21</TD><TD>Matt Moore</TD><TD>vs. WAS</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>22</TD><TD>Matt Hasselbeck</TD><TD>at CAR</TD><TD>Probable(thumb)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>23</TD><TD>Christian Ponder</TD><TD>at GB</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>24</TD><TD>Sam Bradford</TD><TD>at CLE</TD><TD>Probable(ankle)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>25</TD><TD>Colt McCoy</TD><TD>vs. STL</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>26</TD><TD>Andy Dalton</TD><TD>vs. PIT</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>27</TD><TD>John Beck</TD><TD>at MIA</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>28</TD><TD>Tarvaris Jackson</TD><TD>vs. BAL</TD><TD>Probable(pectorals)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>29</TD><TD>Alex Smith</TD><TD>vs. NYG</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>30</TD><TD>John Skelton</TD><TD>at PHI</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>31</TD><TD>Blaine Gabbert</TD><TD>at IND</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>32</TD><TD>Curtis Painter</TD><TD>vs. JAC</TD><TD>-</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

QB Notes: Tebow's start against Oakland was better, but it was still wildly conservative. Tebow had called runs five times on third and long! Only one of them worked. He also had two unsuccessful shovel passes on third-and-long. The Broncos wouldn't let him lose the game. The approach made sense. Trent Dilfer noted that Tebow missed (didn't throw to) wide open receivers at least eight times all day.

Tebow's decision-making was still slow and his accuracy was still shaky. When he misses, he tends to miss by a lot. He took two delay of games, but he did complete five passes where the ball traveled at least ten yards. That's progress, which should help him keep his job. ... Carson Palmer completed some crazy passes last week. I wouldn't be concerned with the picks from a fantasy perspective. Only one was really on him. Palmer showed amazing touch and arm strength on a variety of plays. He threaded the needle a number of times deep down the field. It makes me think he's going to be a significant fantasy factor the rest of the way. He's going to be aggressive.

Don't expect a second half fade from Cam Newton. Looking at the schedule, I expect him to get better. The closest thing to a flaw he has right now is that he can hold on to the ball too long. But he's unbelievably gutsy in the pocket. Defenders still seem surprised by his velocity; it cuts through zone defenses. He can handle a fine Titans secondary. ... Christian Ponder settled down in his start before the bye week, but his scores came on short fields. He's still a long way from being a fantasy option, but Ponder showed nice rhythm and ability to throw on the run in either direction.

Matt Moore put together one of the five best games I've seen from a quarterback all year against Kansas City. Every pass was into a tight window. He showed touch and a surprising ability to go deep. I'll need to see it again to consider playing him, but you could do worse in 2-QB leagues. ... Drew Brees had incredible protection last week, but missed some throws. New Orleans' screen game is so tough to stop right now, though. Brees racks up YAC yards from his wideouts. ... Josh Freeman's play is poor enough that you could consider dropping him. He's not accurate and he's making bad decisions. He couldn't take advantage of New Orleans' banged-up secondary last week. I'd rather have Carson Palmer.


Week 10 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>Arian Foster</TD><TD>at TB</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>2</TD><TD>LeSean McCoy</TD><TD>vs. ARZ</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>3</TD><TD>Matt Forte</TD><TD>vs. DET</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>4</TD><TD>Adrian Peterson</TD><TD>at GB</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>5</TD><TD>Ray Rice</TD><TD>at SEA</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>6</TD><TD>Fred Jackson</TD><TD>at DAL</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>7</TD><TD>Maurice Jones-Drew</TD><TD>at IND</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>8</TD><TD>DeMarco Murray</TD><TD>vs. BUF</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>9</TD><TD>Frank Gore</TD><TD>vs. NYG</TD><TD>Probable(ankle)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>10</TD><TD>Michael Bush</TD><TD>at SD</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>11</TD><TD>Willis McGahee</TD><TD>at KC</TD><TD>Probable(hand)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>12</TD><TD>Steven Jackson</TD><TD>at CLE</TD><TD>Probable(foot)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>13</TD><TD>Michael Turner</TD><TD>vs. NO</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>14</TD><TD>Darren Sproles</TD><TD>at ATL</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>15</TD><TD>Ryan Mathews</TD><TD>vs. OAK</TD><TD>Probable(groin)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>16</TD><TD>Shonn Greene</TD><TD>vs. NE</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>17</TD><TD>Rashard Mendenhall</TD><TD>at CIN</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>18</TD><TD>Jackie Battle</TD><TD>vs. DEN</TD><TD>Probable(-)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>19</TD><TD>LeGarrette Blount</TD><TD>vs. HOU</TD><TD>Probable(knee)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>20</TD><TD>Jonathan Stewart</TD><TD>vs. TEN</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>21</TD><TD>Chris Johnson</TD><TD>at CAR</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>22</TD><TD>Reggie Bush</TD><TD>vs. WAS</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>23</TD><TD>BenJarvus Green-Ellis</TD><TD>at NYJ</TD><TD>Questionable(toe)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>24</TD><TD>Brandon Jacobs</TD><TD>at SF</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>25</TD><TD>Beanie Wells</TD><TD>at PHI</TD><TD>Questionable(knee)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>26</TD><TD>James Starks</TD><TD>vs. MIN</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>27</TD><TD>Cedric Benson</TD><TD>vs. PIT</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>28</TD><TD>Roy Helu</TD><TD>at MIA</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>29</TD><TD>Chris Ogbonnaya</TD><TD>vs. STL</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>30</TD><TD>Mike Tolbert</TD><TD>vs. OAK</TD><TD>Probable(hamstring)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>31</TD><TD>Pierre Thomas</TD><TD>at ATL</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>32</TD><TD>Ben Tate</TD><TD>at TB</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>33</TD><TD>Maurice Morris</TD><TD>at CHI</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>34</TD><TD>DeAngelo Williams</TD><TD>vs. TEN</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>35</TD><TD>Marshawn Lynch</TD><TD>vs. BAL</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>36</TD><TD>Daniel Thomas</TD><TD>vs. WAS</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>37</TD><TD>Donald Brown</TD><TD>vs. JAC</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>38</TD><TD>Delone Carter</TD><TD>vs. JAC</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>39</TD><TD>Ryan Grant</TD><TD>vs. MIN</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>40</TD><TD>Chris Ivory</TD><TD>at ATL</TD><TD>Questionable(hamstring)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>41</TD><TD>Javon Ringer</TD><TD>at CAR</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>42</TD><TD>Joseph Addai</TD><TD>vs. JAC</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>43</TD><TD>LaDainian Tomlinson</TD><TD>vs. NE</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>44</TD><TD>Danny Woodhead</TD><TD>at NYJ</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>45</TD><TD>Ricky Williams</TD><TD>at SEA</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>46</TD><TD>Knowshon Moreno</TD><TD>at KC</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>47</TD><TD>Bernard Scott</TD><TD>vs. PIT</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>48</TD><TD>Keiland Williams</TD><TD>at CHI</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>49</TD><TD>Kendall Hunter</TD><TD>vs. NYG</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>50</TD><TD>Kevin Faulk</TD><TD>at NYJ</TD><TD> </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>51</TD><TD>C.J. Spiller</TD><TD>at DAL</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>52</TD><TD>Ryan Torain</TD><TD>at MIA</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>53</TD><TD>Dexter McCluster</TD><TD>vs. DEN</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>54</TD><TD>Isaac Redman</TD><TD>at CIN</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>55</TD><TD>Joe McKnight</TD><TD>vs. NE</TD><TD>Probable(toe)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>56</TD><TD>Thomas Jones</TD><TD>vs. DEN</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>57</TD><TD>Thomas Clayton</TD><TD>vs. STL</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>58</TD><TD>Phillip Tanner</TD><TD>vs. BUF</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>59</TD><TD>Leon Washington</TD><TD>vs. BAL</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>60</TD><TD>Stevan Ridley</TD><TD>at NYJ</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>61</TD><TD>Tashard Choice</TD><TD>at MIA</TD><TD> </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>62</TD><TD>Taiwan Jones</TD><TD>at SD</TD><TD>-</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

RB Notes:I mentioned it last week, but I'll repeat it again: Jonathan Stewart is a great trade target. Panthers offensive coordinator Rob Chudzinski is getting very creative with his run plays and relying on Stewart more on passing ones. ... The Packers struggle with running backs in the passing game. That should help Adrian Peterson have a big week. ... Kansas City threw way too much on third-and-short last week. I look for a more run-based approach against a soft Denver front. Jackie Battle should have a nice day.

Reggie Bush has run North-South the last couple of weeks. Better yet, he's made people miss. I'm waiting for him to pull the rug out from under his fantasy owners. This isn't an easy matchup. ... LeGarrette Blount's lack of third down work last week was alarming. Kregg Lumpkin didn't play very well, so perhaps Blount will see more snaps this week. I don't like the matchup against Houston. ... If the Bucs gave up 7 yards-per-carry against the Saints, what's going to happen with the Texans coming to town? You could do worse than Ben Tate as a flex in deep standard leagues.

Michael Bush is a downgrade from Darren McFadden of course, but he's still a must-start RB1 until McFadden is back. He gets huge holes to run through. Oakland is using Bush on third downs because they don't trust Taiwan Jones. Bush is surprisingly good as a receiver. The Chargers defense is soft. Don't be surprised if Bush overwhelms them. ... Thursday night should be a good one for both running games. Oakland's linebacker group is undisciplined. The secondary can't tackle either.

My favorite Willis McGahee run from last week came on a two-yard run. It took five guys to tackle him ... and they still couldn't tackle him. He's turned into a very tough runner. ... Shonn Greene had a run over 40 yards taken away last week by a holding call that had nothing to do with the play. He's running well and the Jets line is coming together. LaDainian Tomlinson's vulture score was annoying, but Greene is a fine RB2. ... The Bills have been forced to move standout guard Andy Levitre to tackle. It's hurt the line; Fred Jackson did not have lanes to run through last week.


Week 10 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>at CHI</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>2</TD><TD>Mike Wallace</TD><TD>at CIN</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>3</TD><TD>Greg Jennings</TD><TD>vs. MIN</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>4</TD><TD>Steve Smith</TD><TD>vs. TEN</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>5</TD><TD>Vincent Jackson</TD><TD>vs. OAK</TD><TD>Probable(hamstring)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>6</TD><TD>Dwayne Bowe</TD><TD>vs. DEN</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>7</TD><TD>DeSean Jackson</TD><TD>vs. ARZ</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>8</TD><TD>Andre Johnson</TD><TD>at TB</TD><TD>Ranked just in case, may remove</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>9</TD><TD>Roddy White</TD><TD>vs. NO</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>10</TD><TD>Wes Welker</TD><TD>at NYJ</TD><TD>Probable(ribs)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>11</TD><TD>Jeremy Maclin</TD><TD>vs. ARZ</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>12</TD><TD>Hakeem Nicks</TD><TD>at SF</TD><TD>Questionable(hamstring)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>13</TD><TD>Larry Fitzgerald</TD><TD>at PHI</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>14</TD><TD>Julio Jones</TD><TD>vs. NO</TD><TD>Probable(hamstring)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>15</TD><TD>Marques Colston</TD><TD>at ATL</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>16</TD><TD>Dez Bryant</TD><TD>vs. BUF</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>17</TD><TD>Brandon Marshall</TD><TD>vs. WAS</TD><TD>Probable(quadriceps)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>18</TD><TD>Brandon Lloyd</TD><TD>at CLE</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>19</TD><TD>Percy Harvin</TD><TD>at GB</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>20</TD><TD>A.J. Green</TD><TD>vs. PIT</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>21</TD><TD>Anquan Boldin</TD><TD>at SEA</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>22</TD><TD>Santonio Holmes</TD><TD>vs. NE</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>23</TD><TD>Jordy Nelson</TD><TD>vs. MIN</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>24</TD><TD>Victor Cruz</TD><TD>at SF</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>25</TD><TD>Stevie Johnson</TD><TD>at DAL</TD><TD>Probable(groin)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>26</TD><TD>Mario Manningham</TD><TD>at SF</TD><TD>Probable(illness)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>27</TD><TD>Antonio Brown</TD><TD>at CIN</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>28</TD><TD>Jacoby Ford</TD><TD>at SD</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>29</TD><TD>Plaxico Burress</TD><TD>vs. NE</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>30</TD><TD>Mike Williams</TD><TD>vs. HOU</TD><TD>Questionable(thigh)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>31</TD><TD>Sidney Rice</TD><TD>vs. BAL</TD><TD>Probable(foot)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>32</TD><TD>Michael Crabtree</TD><TD>vs. NYG</TD><TD>Probable(foot)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>33</TD><TD>Laurent Robinson</TD><TD>vs. BUF</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>34</TD><TD>James Jones</TD><TD>vs. MIN</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>35</TD><TD>Pierre Garcon</TD><TD>vs. JAC</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>36</TD><TD>Lance Moore</TD><TD>at ATL</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>37</TD><TD>Nate Washington</TD><TD>at CAR</TD><TD>Probable(hip)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>38</TD><TD>Steve Breaston</TD><TD>vs. DEN</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>39</TD><TD>Torrey Smith</TD><TD>at SEA</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>40</TD><TD>Reggie Wayne</TD><TD>vs. JAC</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>41</TD><TD>Denarius Moore</TD><TD>at SD</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>42</TD><TD>Deion Branch</TD><TD>at NYJ</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>43</TD><TD>Jonathan Baldwin</TD><TD>vs. DEN</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>44</TD><TD>Greg Little</TD><TD>vs. STL</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>45</TD><TD>Eric Decker</TD><TD>at KC</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>46</TD><TD>Earl Bennett</TD><TD>vs. DET</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>47</TD><TD>Jabar Gaffney</TD><TD>at MIA</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>48</TD><TD>David Nelson</TD><TD>at DAL</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>49</TD><TD>Doug Baldwin</TD><TD>vs. BAL</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>50</TD><TD>Early Doucet</TD><TD>at PHI</TD><TD>Questionable(quadriceps)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>51</TD><TD>Michael Jenkins</TD><TD>at GB</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>52</TD><TD>Johnny Knox</TD><TD>vs. DET</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>53</TD><TD>Jason Avant</TD><TD>vs. ARZ</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>54</TD><TD>Jerome Simpson</TD><TD>vs. PIT</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>55</TD><TD>Roy Williams</TD><TD>vs. DET</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>56</TD><TD>Devin Hester</TD><TD>vs. DET</TD><TD>Questionable(ankle)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>57</TD><TD>Braylon Edwards</TD><TD>vs. NYG</TD><TD>Probable(knee)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>58</TD><TD>Mike Thomas</TD><TD>at IND</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>59</TD><TD>Kevin Walter</TD><TD>at TB</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>60</TD><TD>Leonard Hankerson</TD><TD>at MIA</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>61</TD><TD>Austin Pettis</TD><TD>at CLE</TD><TD> </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>62</TD><TD>Nate Burleson</TD><TD>at CHI</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>63</TD><TD>Eddie Royal</TD><TD>at KC</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>64</TD><TD>Jason Hill</TD><TD>at IND</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>65</TD><TD>Hines Ward</TD><TD>at CIN</TD><TD>Probable(concussion)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>66</TD><TD>Darrius Heyward-Bey</TD><TD>at SD</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>67</TD><TD>Austin Collie</TD><TD>vs. JAC</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>68</TD><TD>Robert Meachem</TD><TD>at ATL</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>69</TD><TD>Davone Bess</TD><TD>vs. WAS</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>70</TD><TD>Donald Jones</TD><TD>at DAL</TD><TD>Probable(ankle)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>71</TD><TD>Damian Williams</TD><TD>at CAR</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>72</TD><TD>Titus Young</TD><TD>at CHI</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>73</TD><TD>Jacoby Jones</TD><TD>at TB</TD><TD>-</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

WR Notes: I love Percy Harvin in this matchup. He's healthy and the Vikings know he's their only playmaker outside of Adrian Peterson. Harvin touched the ball five times in Minnesota's first 12 plays in their last game. The coaching staff is dialing up plays for him. ... Steve Smith versus Cortland Finnegan is a battle I'd pay to see. It doesn't get much more competitive or feisty than those two. ... It was very impressive to see Brandon Marshall beat Brandon Flowers a number of times last week. Matt Moore was very precise on his throws. It bodes well for Marshall this week and the rest of the season. ... Dwayne Bowe is playing very well. My only concern is that Matt Cassel isn't protected well enough to go deep. Kansas City’s offensive line was abysmal last week.

I kept defending Lance Moore, and it's finally starting to pay off. He's a decent WR3. ... Jacoby Ford is the truth. It seems like Carson Palmer recognizes Ford is the most complete receiver on the team now. He can do the vertical routes, like the rest of the Raiders receivers. Ford separates from them because he's so good after the catch. He beat Champ Bailey a few times last week because of his routes. Ford has a terrific burst. They need to keep him involved. I think they will. Pick him up.

The Broncos wide receivers are essentially worthless with Tebow at the helm. Any decent game will be luck or unpredictable. ... T.J. Houshmandzadeh should not be owned. Please. ... I'd be worried about the Bills offense this week in Dallas. The Ryan brothers share notes well. Check out how the Patriots looked during their Jets-to-Cowboys sequence. You play Stevie Johnson, but that's it.

Plaxico Burress does something surprising each week. He's catching more passes in the middle of the field. Two weeks ago, he made someone miss in the open field. Against Buffalo, he ran over a few defenders. Mark Sanchez did not play particularly well against the Bills, but Burress is a matchup play now. And the matchup is right this week. I've come around. ... Santonio Holmes' touchdown grab last week showed how tough it can be to score with Sanchez at quarterback. The Jets only put up big points because they got a short field so often. Holmes is too talented to ever sit, but I think he'll disappoint down the stretch. Deal him if you get a fair offer.


Week 10 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>Jimmy Graham</TD><TD>at ATL</TD><TD>Probable(ankle)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>2</TD><TD>Antonio Gates</TD><TD>vs. OAK</TD><TD>Probable(foot)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>3</TD><TD>Jason Witten</TD><TD>vs. BUF</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>4</TD><TD>Rob Gronkowski</TD><TD>at NYJ</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>5</TD><TD>Jermichael Finley</TD><TD>vs. MIN</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>6</TD><TD>Aaron Hernandez</TD><TD>at NYJ</TD><TD>Questionable(knee)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>7</TD><TD>Owen Daniels</TD><TD>at TB</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>8</TD><TD>Fred Davis</TD><TD>at MIA</TD><TD>Probable(ankle)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>9</TD><TD>Tony Gonzalez</TD><TD>vs. NO</TD><TD>Probable(back)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>10</TD><TD>Greg Olsen</TD><TD>vs. TEN</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>11</TD><TD>Dustin Keller</TD><TD>vs. NE</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>12</TD><TD>Brandon Pettigrew</TD><TD>at CHI</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>13</TD><TD>Vernon Davis</TD><TD>vs. NYG</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>14</TD><TD>Jake Ballard</TD><TD>at SF</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>15</TD><TD>Kellen Winslow</TD><TD>vs. HOU</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>16</TD><TD>Heath Miller</TD><TD>at CIN</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>17</TD><TD>Visanthe Shiancoe</TD><TD>at GB</TD><TD>Probable(foot)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>18</TD><TD>Jared Cook</TD><TD>at CAR</TD><TD>Probable(knee)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>19</TD><TD>Brent Celek</TD><TD>vs. ARZ</TD><TD>Probable(hip)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>20</TD><TD>Jacob Tamme</TD><TD>vs. JAC</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>21</TD><TD>Jermaine Gresham</TD><TD>vs. PIT</TD><TD>Probable(hamstring)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>22</TD><TD>Ed Dickson</TD><TD>at SEA</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>23</TD><TD>Ben Watson</TD><TD>vs. STL</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>24</TD><TD>Marcedes Lewis</TD><TD>at IND</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>25</TD><TD>Scott Chandler</TD><TD>at DAL</TD><TD>-</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

TE Notes: Visanthe Shiancoe isn't a bad option this week. He's become more of a factor since Christian Ponder took over and the matchup is right. ... Antonio Gates might be old and slow, but he's still producing. Oakland's secondary is very thin. ... John Beck is so tentative that he could hurt Fred Davis a bit long-term. I'd prefer Rex Grossman as a Davis owner. ... The Patriots tight ends are hit or miss facing the Jets, but you can't sit them. ... Jake Ballard has been a nice story, but he shouldn’t be in lineups in a tough matchup. ... Owen Daniels will probably get another week as Houston's best receiving option. ... Jacob Tamme will start for the Colts, but he won't have anything close to the same impact as he did last year.

Week 10 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>Ravens Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at SEA</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>2</TD><TD>Eagles Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. ARZ</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>3</TD><TD>Fortyniners Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. NYG</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>4</TD><TD>Texans Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at TB</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>5</TD><TD>Packers Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. MIN</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>6</TD><TD>Jaguars Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at IND</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>7</TD><TD>Dolphins Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. WAS</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>8</TD><TD>Steelers Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at CIN</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>9</TD><TD>Bengals Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. PIT</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>10</TD><TD>Giants Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at SF</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>11</TD><TD>Lions Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at CHI</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>12</TD><TD>Chiefs Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. DEN</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>13</TD><TD>Cowboys Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. BUF</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>14</TD><TD>Bears Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. DET</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>15</TD><TD>Chargers Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. OAK</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>16</TD><TD>Rams Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at CLE</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>17</TD><TD>Jets Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. NE</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>18</TD><TD>Patriots Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at NYJ</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>19</TD><TD>Colts Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. JAC</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>20</TD><TD>Saints Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at ATL</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>21</TD><TD>Redskins Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at MIA</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>22</TD><TD>Broncos Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at KC</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>23</TD><TD>Browns Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. STL</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>24</TD><TD>Vikings Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at GB</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>25</TD><TD>Titans Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at CAR</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>26</TD><TD>Seahawks Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. BAL</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>27</TD><TD>Panthers Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. TEN</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>28</TD><TD>Falcons Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. NO</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>29</TD><TD>Raiders Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at SD</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>30</TD><TD>Bills Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at DAL</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>31</TD><TD>Buccaneers Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. HOU</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>32</TD><TD>Cardinals Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at PHI</TD><TD>-</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

Week 10 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>vs. MIN</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>2</TD><TD>John Kasay</TD><TD>at ATL</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>3</TD><TD>David Akers</TD><TD>vs. NYG</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>4</TD><TD>Alex Henery</TD><TD>vs. ARZ</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>5</TD><TD>Neil Rackers</TD><TD>at TB</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>6</TD><TD>Dan Bailey</TD><TD>vs. BUF</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>7</TD><TD>Stephen Gostkowski</TD><TD>at NYJ</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>8</TD><TD>Billy Cundiff</TD><TD>at SEA</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>9</TD><TD>Matt Bryant</TD><TD>vs. NO</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>10</TD><TD>Robbie Gould</TD><TD>vs. DET</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>11</TD><TD>Sebastian Janikowski</TD><TD>at SD</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>12</TD><TD>Ryan Succop</TD><TD>vs. DEN</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>13</TD><TD>Nick Novak</TD><TD>vs. OAK</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>14</TD><TD>Jason Hanson</TD><TD>at CHI</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>15</TD><TD>Dan Carpenter</TD><TD>vs. WAS</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>16</TD><TD>Josh Scobee</TD><TD>at IND</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>17</TD><TD>Rob Bironas</TD><TD>at CAR</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>18</TD><TD>Shaun Suisham</TD><TD>at CIN</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>19</TD><TD>Nick Folk</TD><TD>vs. NE</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>20</TD><TD>Ryan Longwell</TD><TD>at GB</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>21</TD><TD>Matt Prater</TD><TD>at KC</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>22</TD><TD>Josh Brown</TD><TD>at CLE</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>23</TD><TD>Lawrence Tynes</TD><TD>at SF</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>24</TD><TD>Olindo Mare</TD><TD>vs. TEN</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>25</TD><TD>Connor Barth</TD><TD>vs. HOU</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>26</TD><TD>Mike Nugent</TD><TD>vs. PIT</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>27</TD><TD>Graham Gano</TD><TD>at MIA</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>28</TD><TD>Phil Dawson</TD><TD>vs. STL</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>29</TD><TD>Steven Hauschka</TD><TD>vs. BAL</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>30</TD><TD>Jay Feely</TD><TD>at PHI</TD><TD>-</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>31</TD><TD>Adam Vinatieri</TD><TD>vs. JAC</TD><TD>-</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

HacheMan · Nov 11, 2011

More From Moore

Between the horrifying scandal at Penn State, the kidnap of Wilson Ramos and the never-ending quagmire that is the NBA lockout, this has been one of those weeks that makes you wonder, “why do I devote so much of my time to sports?”

What better to remind you than an actual game. Squaring off in the first Thursday night contest since the Packers and Saints christened the season in epic fashion on September 8, the Chargers and Raiders staged an exciting, if maddening, divisional tilt last evening, racking up yards before bungling through a fourth quarter where neither team seemed ready or able to close things out.

Along the way, we were treated to a number of breakouts and awakenings.

Denarius Moore
One of the preseason’s most hyped sleepers, Moore appeared to be on his way to proving a lot of people right when he erupted for five catches, 146 yards and a touchdown in Oakland’s Week 2 loss to the Bills.

Six games and 127 yards later, his fantasy value was on life support. Thursday night, he resuscitated it in a big way. Before reeling in his third and fourth touchdowns of the season, Moore made one of the most ridiculous catches you’ll ever see. When it was all said and done, he’d come alive to the tune of five catches for 123 yards and two scores.

Three of his five receptions went for at least 26 yards, while he was clearly Carson Palmer’s favorite target on a night where the Raiders lost Jacoby Ford to injury in the first quarter.

Moore’s explosive Week 2 and subsequent disappearing act should be all the reason you need to remain cautious going forward, but with a new sheriff in town at quarterback in Palmer and and an old sideshow in Darrius Heyward-Bey affixed to the bench, Moore could be ready to make everyone who touted him in August look like geniuses in November.

Vincent Brown
On a night where Vincent Jackson didn’t appear interested in playing the game of football, Brown gamely stepped in as Philip Rivers’ go-to receiver, tying Mike Tolbert for a team-high nine targets while hauling in five catches for 97 yards and a touchdown. His stat-line would have read “six catches, 130 yards, two touchdowns” had replay not overturned a 33-yard score in the third quarter.

Brown is not the burner Moore is, but in a receiver corps struggling to find pass catchers who can stay healthy or produce on a weekly basis, he’s officially worth a look in all formats after racking up nine catches for 176 yards in the past six days.

Michael Bush
Bush might not have the Raiders’ starting job, but he does have something no one else in franchise history does: the team’s single-game yards from scrimmage mark.

Bush’s 242 yards from scrimmage broke a 24-year-old Raiders record held by Bo Jackson. Able to reel off 5-6 yards every time he touched the ball, Bush punished the Bolts for 157 yards on 30 carries, adding 85 yards on three catches through the air.

If he wasn’t already, Bush’s big night has cemented him as the league’s top backup runner (sorry Ben Tate), and you can’t help but wonder if it convinced the Raiders to lighten Darren McFadden’s workload once he’s able to kick his foot injury.

Carson Palmer
Coming off back-to-back three-interception performances — one for each of the first-round picks (one being conditional, of course) the Raiders surrendered for his services — it was put up or shut up time for the player who begged his way out of Cincinnati.

To the great relief of his new employer, Palmer put up — way up, in fact — averaging an eye-popping 15.0 yards on his 20 attempts, finishing his night 14-of-20 for 299 yards, two touchdowns and one interception.

Just like it wasn’t time to deem his acquistion a colossal failure after only two games, it’s not time to deem it a grand success after only two good halves.

But if Palmer is able to play with the sizzle (his arm strength appeared as good as it has in years) and smarts he displayed last evening going forward, he should be an asset, both in real life and fantasy.

Playing behind an elite offensive line in an offense full of weapons, he has the tools for continued success.

INJURY QUICK SLANTS
One day after practicing in full, Julio Jones (hamstring) was mysteriously added to the Falcons’ injury report. It’s quite possible Atlanta was just looking to get its young receiver some rest, but he’ll be the player to watch on Friday. … Frank Gore (left ankle) was limited in 49ers practice for the second straight day, but says he feels better than he did in Week 4, when he took a bum right ankle into San Francisco’s game against the Eagles. Gore, of course, ended his three-game, season-beginning slump that afternoon, erupting for 127 yards on just 15 carries. … Like Gore, Sam Bradford (ankle) was limited for the second straight day Thursday. Also like Gore, he’s fully expected to be in the starting lineup Sunday. … Joseph Addai (hamstring, knee) missed another practice, and appears destined for a second weekend as Indy’s “emergency” back. … Andre Johnson (hamstring) remains unlikely to return Sunday. … Ahmad Bradshaw (foot) has been declared out for Week 10 by ESPN’s Adam Schefter. That’s good enough for us. … Mark Ingram (heel) was again limited. Even if he’s active, he’s to be avoided against the Falcons. … Jermaine Gresham (hamstring) is trending in the wrong direction. He’s unlikely to play this weekend. … What Hakeem Nicks (hamstring) does in practice this afternoon could decide his Week 10 status.

BIZARRE/ULTIMATELY MEANINGLESS STATS OF THE WEEK
Philip Rivers’ 15 interceptions are four more than anyone else has thrown, and tied for his career-worst total. He has seven games left to play.

Sam Bradford has one more touchdown pass than Kerry Collins. He has two more than Shane Lechler. Matt Moore, Donovan McNabb, Chad Henne, Curtis Painter, Rex Grossman and Tim Tebow have all thrown for more scores than Bradford.

DeSean Jackson is averaging 2.6 catches for 31 yards over his past three games. He has seen his yardage total decline for four straight games, and surpassed three catches just three times this season.

Ben Tate is 10th in the NFL in rushing.

JAGUARS/COLTS PREVIEW
Chicken or the egg? To be or not to be? These are two of mankind’s most celebrated philosophical questions. This weekend, we’ll get the answer to a third: if an 0-9 team takes on a 2-6 team in Indianapolis, does it make a sound?

The Colts and Jags are 31st and 32nd in total offense. The Colts are averaging 282.8 yards per game, while Jacksonville rolls up an average of 242.6 yards.

Jacksonville’s average of 12.3 points is the worst in the league, while Indy’s 14.2 is good for third to last.

”Led” by rookie quarterback Blaine Gabbert, the Jaguars average 142.6 passing yards per game, 45.2 fewer than anybody else.

There’s really no way to sugarcoat just how bad Gabbert has been. If Jimmy Clausen’s 2010 set the modern standard for quarterback futility, Gabbert could be pushing for a new benchmark this season. Consider:

-His quarterback rating of 62.0 is dead last in the NFL and 4.5 points worse than Rex Grossman’s. Gabbert could double his rating and it still wouldn’t match Aaron Rodgers’ 129.1 mark.

-He’s averaging 129.6 yards per game, 41.4 fewer than anybody else.

-His 5.24 yards per attempt is 0.49 worse than anybody else's.

-His 45.7 completion percentage is 7.6 percent worse than anybody else's.

As for his Indianapolis counterpart Curtis Painter...just put it this way: he hasn’t been much better. Things should be interesting in Indy on Sunday.

FOUR PICKS FOR SUNDAY
Big game: Falcons 28, Saints 27
Atlanta uses its home-field advantage to stay hot as New Orleans’ mid-season funk deepens.

Big game II: New York Jets 31, Patriots 17
The Patriots hit their low point as the Jets become the latest defense to disorient Tom Brady in a surprising rout.

Upset of the week: Bills 28, Cowboys 24
Buffalo scores a huge road win as the Cowboys suffer a devastating home loss.

The I really don’t have a clue but will pretend I do game: Broncos 35, Chiefs 14
Just when Todd Haley thought it was o.k. to relax, Kansas City’s second straight ugly defeat heats up his seat more than ever.