NFL Fantasy Football News 2009-2010

HacheMan · Nov 9, 2009

Rice could be the one
Sunday went about as well as could be expected for Steve Slaton owners, assuming they got the news that Ryan Moats was starting on Saturday. Moats averaged less than 2.5 yards-per-carry against Indianapolis, and he lost a game-altering fumble on the goal line in the first half. Slaton didn't replace Moats after that permanently, but his work picked up. Slaton punched in a goal-line score and made a few catches out of the backfield. Chris Brown was nowhere to be found.

Slaton didn't do a lot with his six carries (Moats had 16), indicating that Houston's problems were on the offensive line. But Slaton took a step back towards getting into Gary Kubiak's good graces. This should remain a committee, and I suspect Slaton will be leading it before the fantasy playoffs hit.

[SIZE=+1]They're real and they're spectacular [/SIZE]

1. Ray Rice is a special sort of awesome that can survive any type of game and give you a monster fantasy performance. If the Ravens are trailing, he lights it up as a receiver. Rice has more catches in his last five games than Brandon Marshall, Tony Gonzalez, and Donald Driver have all season. If the Ravens are leading, Rice will do his work on the ground. If I was redrafting today in a PPR league, Rice is going in the top three. Maybe first.

2. The Bears defense and running game is bad enough that the team can continue to support three quality fantasy options at receiver. Earl Bennett stretches the field more than we expected. Devin Hester is an every-week WR2.

3. Peyton Manning has thrown for more than 300 yards in his two worst games of the season – the last two. That's pretty sweet.

4. Carson Palmer solidified his breakout game against the Bears. Even though he didn't have a huge fantasy afternoon, he delivered a number of difficult passes and is playing well. He's going to be tough to sit in fantasy leagues down the stretch. Perhaps all that time off really was the cause of his slow start.

[SIZE=+1]Don't Panic [/SIZE]

1. Maybe we expected too much, too soon from Matt Ryan. He's still on pace for 3,568 yards and 26 TDs. Those are numbers you'd take at the beginning of the season. He's not a difference-maker in fantasy leaguers, but a borderline QB1 to avoid in difficult weeks. He faces an excellent Carolina secondary this week before a couple plus matchups.

2. The loss of Owen Daniels wasn't the cure all for Kevin Walter's slow season, but it was a start. Of some concern: Jacoby Jones had five targets, David Anderson four, Joel Dreesen three. (Walter had six.) Matt Schaub will spread the ball around. Jones isn't a bad pickup.

3. The Bengals have Joe Flacco's number. He's been too good for the rest of the season to freak out based on that performance. He's a borderline QB1 that is worth using in the right matchups. Like, say, Cleveland next week.

[SIZE=+1]Some Panic is Acceptable [/SIZE]

1. Clinton Portis' season was panic-worthy before his concussion. Ladell Betts' play in his place could be an Ewing Theory moment for the Redskins. Even when Portis returns, Betts may have a bigger share of the pie.

2. Beanie Wells continues to look good when he gets the chance. But his inability to block will hold his fantasy value back. If he can only get 13 carries when the Cardinals have a three-touchdown lead early in a game, then his ceiling is limited. Wells still split carries evenly with Tim Hightower (who also played well), and the Cardinals don't stop passing just because they have a big lead. Wells looks like someone that will give you 50 yards a week, although a few more touchdowns should come.

3. Cedric Benson is on pace for 396 carries. It's a very good thing that his 37 and 34 carry performances were broken up with a bye week. Go easy on the big fella Marvin Lewis; Bernard Scott is your friend! Benson has a great schedule in the build up to the fantasy playoffs.

[SIZE=+1]Stepping off the Ledge [/SIZE]

1. Even last season, Michael Turner was inconsistent. He destroyed the cupcakes and often struggled against quality competition. That makes his two-game explosion against the Saints and Redskins so encouraging. New Orleans was missing a few key defenders, but came into the game as a quality rush defense. Washington was even better. Turner's schedule is mixed the rest of the way, but he appears to have shaken off some of the hangover from his 370-carry season. The inconsistency probably won't go away, but the big games are back.

2. Kurt Warner knows how to carve up suspect defensive backfields. His accuracy is as good as ever. We're still not sure what he's going to do when he faces a defense that applies pressure, but he doesn't face another until Week 13 against Minnesota. The Cardinals still didn't hit on big plays, even in Warner's boffo performance. He completed only one pass over 20 yards. That will catch up to him, but maybe not until the playoffs.

3. Sorry if my ranking of Greg Olsen at eleven this week made you bench him. I promise not to make another mistake this season.

4. Matt Forte is on pace for 1,400 yards from scrimmage and 60 catches. He had 1,715 yards from scrimmage and 47 catches last year. He's topped 100 yards from scrimmage in four of last six games.

5. With Chris Henry out indefinitely, Laveranues Coles' situation appear to be improving. He still doesn't look great, but he's getting single coverage and the passing game is starting to lift him up.

[SIZE=+1]Short, declarative sentences about defenses [/SIZE]

Getting to face the Bears defense is now a plus matchup. The Packers defense didn't play as poorly as the final score indicated. The Titans defense is back to respectable with health in their secondary. The Patriots defense continues to find playmakers in its secondary. The Bengals are a solid every-week play. Miami's secondary will continue to get picked on.

Note: If you aren't sick of my thoughts here, check out my Sunday wrapup Quick Slants column of "reality" football over at NBCSports.com and check me out on Twitter. Happy Monday

HacheMan · Nov 10, 2009

Ladell Betts isn't best, but he will start for Portis

The running back getting an automatic promotion this week is the Redskins' Ladell Betts, moving up to replace Clinton Portis who could miss a few games after suffering a concussion last week.
This isn't exactly a plum job; the Redskins' rushing game is ranked 23rd and Portis scored in only one of the first seven games. Betts had 70 yards and a TD against the Falcons, which would have been one of Portis' better games of the season.
Betts has had enough success, and has enough experience, as a backup runner to fit in as a possible flex starter or No. 3 back. Unfortunately for Betts, the Redskins are hitting a brutal stretch of games against Denver, Dallas, Philadelphia and New Orleans in the next four weeks.
None of those teams will give up much to the Redskins, but if you need carries, you need carries and Betts will get some for a couple of weeks.
Here are some other players to consider picking up off waivers this week:
Chris Chambers, WR, Chiefs. The newcomer Chambers scored two TDs late in the fourth quarter of the Chiefs' loss on Sunday on the heels of a good chunk of playing time. Chambers could emerge as a starter over the next few weeks. And while Kansas City's passing game isn't very good, the Chiefs do play from behind quite a bit, which means extra chances for Chambers.
Laveranues Coles, WR, Bengals. The Bengals do not have too much production to replace after losing Chris Henry, but Coles is one to watch. He had six catches for 72 yards last week, both season-highs, after scoring in each of the prior two games. Coles' role could continue to grow in coming weeks.
Early Doucet, WR, Cardinals. If Anquan Boldin's ankle injury continues to bother him, or if his off-field comments hurt his status, Doucet is a player to watch. Steve Breaston is owned in almost all leagues, but Doucet is coming on. He saw his first playing time of the season last week and responded with four catches for 31 yards.
Darren McFadden, RB, Raiders. He should return from a Week 4 knee injury to play against the Chiefs this week. He definitely is worth a look if he was dumped in some leagues after a slow start. McFadden was not very good before getting hurt, but the Chiefs are 28th against the run so he could return with a bang.
Robert Meachem, WR, Saints. Lance Moore is injured again, which could help the talented Meachem finally emerge. Meachem had a career-high five catches last week and 98 yards and a TD, the second-best game of his career. Just being in the Saints' offense gives him plenty of potential and now he has more playing time.

HacheMan · Nov 10, 2009

Steal of the Draft?
Is this really Rashard Mendenhall? The same Rashard Mendenhall that lost the majority of his rookie season to a shoulder injury. The same guy that looked "ordinary" during the offseason according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette and struggled between the tackles in the preseason. The same guy that was benched by his coach for a lack of preparation in Week 3?

Something has clearly clicked with Mendenhall and now he's not looking back. Willie Parker barely sniffed the field Monday night and with good reason. Mendenhall is an elite back, one that can run up the middle and to the outside equally as well. He blasts through arm tackles, has tremendous top speed and rushed 22 times for 155 yards Monday night.

In fact, it's pretty obvious that Mendenhall will be a first-round pick in all fantasy leagues next season. It's hard to say anyone truly saw that coming. The Steelers talked up Parker in the preseason, saying he's their horse and sticking with him despite an obvious erosion of skills. That led to Mendenhall going in the 14th or 15th round of most fantasy drafts and makes him one of the steals of the season.

While we're talking about steals of the draft, here are my top-five value picks (not waiver adds) so far this season:
1. Rashard Mendenhall - We're seeing why he was the No. 23 overall pick in the real draft in 2008.
2. Ray Rice - No reason whatsoever to think he'll slow down off his 92 catch, 2,018 total yard pace.
3. Steve Smith (Giants) - The possession receiver label made him fall in drafts.
4. Vernon Davis - This one stings even more for owners that have been burned in the past by his allure.
5. Cedric Benson - He's transformed himself from bust to elite back.

Steelers vs. Broncos quick hitters:
Hines Ward isn't really affected by age because that's not his game. He's finds openings and exploits them in an explosive offense. … We've written more than enough on Eddie Royal, so let's just say he was impressive Monday night and leave it at that. He could easily have zero catches next week. … Brandon Marshall easily could have been on that "steals of the draft" list. That attitude problem is long forgotten. … Santonio Holmes repeatedly beat Champ Bailey Monday night.

Editor's Note: For early rankings, complete projections, and a host of other exclusive material for Week 10, head to Rotoworld's Season Pass.

NEWS OF THE DAY #2
Larry Johnson was waived by the Chiefs yesterday morning, on the first day he was eligible to come back from suspension. Various teams such as the Texans, Redskins and Bears didn't rule out interest, but it's hard to see Johnson having any value this season. You can cut him in most leagues.

Johnson leaves behind Jamaal Charles, Kolby Smith and Dantrell Savage in Kansas City. Charles is the best fit for the offense, but the Chiefs don't see him as an inside runner right now. Smith will probably get the early-down and goal-line work, with Charles coming in for passing downs and to run sweeps.

Charles is a better fit behind the Chiefs' wretched offensive line and is the back to grab, especially in PPR leagues.

NEWS OF THE DAY #3
Clinton Portis will almost certainly miss this week's game against the Broncos, putting his owners out of their misery. If you weren't benching him already, now you have to. Ladell Betts is the obvious add and has some talent, but this offensive line could be worse than the Chiefs' unit. Don't look for anything huge out of Betts this week.

NEWS OF THE DAY #4
Chris Henry is out for the season after breaking his forearm in two places. It hurts the Bengals more than it helps any fantasy teams. Henry was the team's deep threat, but only had 12 catches on the season. Laveranues Coles gets a slight boost in value, but not enough to be a very good fantasy option.

NEWS OF THE DAY #5
Andy Reid had a very strange press conference Monday in regards to Brian Westbrook. First, he said he expects him to practice Wednesday, but couldn't say for sure. Everyone assumed that was because of his concussion. A few minutes later when pressed for a timetable on Westbrook, Reid said that the running back's ankle swelled up after practicing last week and that if he doesn't practice Wednesday it will be because of his ankle.

Westbrook was held out of the Sunday night game because of the concussion, not the ankle. Confused yet? This is what happens when running backs get to 30 -- a lot of complications. We're speculating that Westbrook will play against the Chargers this week, but it's impossible to know for sure yet. If he has headaches this week, he'll sit again. And if his ankle swells again, he'll probably sit again.

Editor's Note: For early rankings, complete projections, and a host of other exclusive material for Week 10, head to Rotoworld's Season Pass.

INJURY QUICK SLANTS
Darren McFadden (knee) practiced Monday and we're expecting him to start this week. … Sammy Morris (knee) was spotted in the locker room without a limp but isn't expected back until Week 10. … Danny Amendola is over his concussion and ready to resume his return and third wideout duties. … Chaz Schilens (foot) still isn't 100 percent but may try to go this week. Don't count on it. … Trent Edwards (concussion) said he anticipated being cleared to start this week and practiced with the first team Monday. … Brandon Jacobs (knee) confirmed that the knee injury that briefly knocked him out of Sunday's loss is no big deal. … Austin Collie said he is fine after feeling tingling in his neck last week. … Garrett Wolfe will be out a couple weeks with a lacerated spleen.

DEPTH CHART QUICK SLANTS
Isaac Bruce was replaced by Josh Morgan in the starting lineup and then lost the No. 3 job to Jason Hill in the middle of the game. None of them are very good fantasy options. … Ravens K Steve Hauschka got a weak vote of confidence from his coach after a costly miss last week. … Calvin Johnson said there is no problem whatsoever between himself and Matthew Stafford after a sideline brush off last week. … Browns coach Eric Mangini said he would announce his starting quarterback for Week 10 on Wednesday.

DEFENSE SPOT STARTS
Here are three ideas for owners adding a new defense each week based on matchups:

DOLPHINS vs. Bucs - We know Josh Freeman was extremely and unexpectedly impressive in his debut, but don't be afraid to bet against him doing it again.

JETS vs. Jaguars - The Jets are coming out of a bye, at home and have lost four of their last five games. Expect a fresh and angry performance.

TITANS vs. Bills - This is not the same defense that was getting absolutely shredded earlier in the year. The secondary is healthier and they have new motivation thanks to a two-game winning streak.

POSITIONAL SPOT STARTS
Chris Wesseling will cover this topic from head-to-toe in his Waiver Wired column, but here are three guys that are worth a quick add:

RB Ladell Betts - Betts will start with Clinton Portis (concussion) out, although he has a tough matchup with the Broncos this week. He's still a starting running back that is probably on your waiver wire.

RB Jamaal Charles - We've been talking about him ever since Larry Johnson opened his trap. Charles is in an even timeshare for now, but he's the back to own. See above and Pancake Blocks for more.

WR James Jones - Targets have been an issue, but he's very talented and starting to gain Aaron Rodgers' trust. He had six passes come his way in Week 9.

HacheMan · Nov 10, 2009

Passing Fancy
Following Alex Smith's four-turnover performance that led directly to a Titans win in Week 9, coach Mike Singletary did nothing but praise his starting quarterback. "Alex had only one play that was really on him," Singletary said Monday, pointing out that the other miscues were a result of the ball just taking "an unlucky bounce." Needless to say, Smith enjoys plenty of job security at the moment.

In another encouraging sign, the heretofore conservative 49ers rolled out 358 yards of offense while skewing toward the pass for the second straight week. "It was, unfortunately, one of the better offensive performances that I've seen since I've been here," Singletary said. "Take away the turnovers, and we have a chance to really have a good offensive game and have some excitement and momentum going forward." Since Smith and Michael Crabtree entered the starting lineup simultaneously, the Niners have shockingly morphed into a pass-first offense. With Vernon Davis emerging as a legit go-to receiver and Jason Hill now playing well in the slot, expect that trend to continue.

The Steelers took note of Arizona's pass-happy run through the playoffs last year, turning to their own uptempo attack early this season. Other teams besides San Francisco have taken notice. Matt Hasselbeck's 39 completions against the Lions were a team record, and coach Jim Mora indicated that he won't be stubborn about pushing the running game going forward. Seattle's best offensive players are in the passing game, and the injury-ravaged offensive line isn't opening any holes on the ground. Hasselbeck's gaudy pass attempt numbers could become the norm rather than the exception over the second half of the season.

The Chiefs showed their most successful passing attack of the season after moving to the no-huddle formation against the Jags in Week 9. Just like in Seattle, the offensive line is getting dominated on the ground. With Larry Johnson out of the picture, the team can put its best aerial weapons on the field and attempt to stretch the defense. Chris Chambers' two-touchdown performance will help draw attention away from Dwayne Bowe, and Lance Long is emerging as a destitute man's Wes Welker in the slot. Throw in Jamaal Charles as a backfield playmaker, and Matt Cassel finally has a chance to succeed in Kansas City.

On to the lists. Here is how I rank the top players available 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. Our mid-season edition is now 33 percent off!

Quarterbacks
1. Alex Smith
2. Matt Cassel
3. Vince Young
4. Josh Freeman

Running Backs
1. Darren McFadden
2. Sammy Morris
3. Ladell Betts
4. Larry Johnson
5. Kolby Smith
6. Ahman Green

Wide Receivers
1. Robert Meachem
2. Jacoby Jones
3. Justin Gage
4. Laveranues Coles
5. Davone Bess
6. Lance Long

Tight Ends
1. Zach Miller
2. Jermichael Finley
3. Brandon Pettigrew

Defenses
1. Bengals
2. Dolphins

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</FONT+1>QUARTERBACKS

Alex Smith, 49ers – Smith attempted 45 passes against the Titans in Week 9, which is easily the most by a Niners quarterback this season. The week before, playing with the lead against the Colts, offensive coordinator Jimmy Raye called 36 pass plays versus just 18 running plays. With Michael Crabtree emerging as a reliable weapon and Vernon Davis playing the best football of his career, Smith has the weapons to take advantage of the switch in playcalling. He should be owned in all leagues as a high-upside QB2.

Recommendation: Should be owned in 12-team leagues

Matt Cassel, Chiefs – The Chiefs finally moved the ball on offense when they went to the no-huddle in the second half against the Jags. While the offensive line remains an issue, Cassel finally has some weapons with which to work in the passing game. Dwayne Bowe is a viable go-to option, Chris Chambers emerged as a red-zone weapon, Lance Long is coming on as a reliable slot receiver, and Jamaal Charles is a major upgrade on Larry Johnson. Cassel's fantasy value is reliant on the Chiefs remaining in an uptempo offense. Will it happen? The Magic 8-Ball says "signs point to yes."

Recommendation: Worth a look in 12-team leagues

Vince Young, Titans – Young has now quarterbacked the best two games of the season for the Titans, and they've gone over 30 points in both weeks. While his completion percentage dipped slightly, the marked increase in yards per attempt was a positive sign. He continues to make plays with his feet, as well, converting a perfectly executed delayed draw for a touchdown against the Niners. V.Y. should have QB2 value the rest of the way.

Recommendation: Worth a look in 12-team leagues

Josh Freeman, Bucs – An inaccurate Freeman remains unprepared to start at the NFL level, but his ability is undeniable. He showed a nice pocket presence against the Packers while taking advantage of his ability to extend plays with his legs. The three touchdowns in the Bucs' first win of the season are a positive for his development, but expect him to take plenty of lumps in the next few weeks. He's only an option in two-quarterback leagues.

Recommendation: Worth a look in two-quarterback leagues

Long-Term Fliers

Matt Moore - The only thing keeping Jake Delhomme in the starting lineup is the foolish contract handed to him in the offseason. The coaches demonstrated several times in Week 9 that they don't even trust him to throw the ball on third-and-eight.

Trent Edwards - It's now or never for Edwards as a starting quarterback in the NFL.

Cut Bait

Chad Henne - One touchdown pass in the last three weeks.

Jake Delhomme - The Panthers don't trust him to throw the ball.



</FONT+1>RUNNING BACKS

Darren McFadden, Raiders – The meniscus injury and the Week 9 bye have McFadden owned in just over half of all leagues. The good news is that he returned to the practice field Monday, with an eye on returning to face the Chiefs this week. Starting left guard Robert Gallery and right tackle Cornell Green are also expected to return to game action, which represents a significant upgrade for the Raiders offensive line. With Chaz Schilens (foot) optimistic about returning as well, the Oakland offense will be in the best shape it's been all season. McFadden will likely return to a timeshare with Justin Fargas initially, but the upgrades on offense give him a shot at fantasy value down the stretch. Pick him up if he's out there.

Recommendation: Should be owned in all leagues

Sammy Morris, Patriots – Morris is expected to miss this week's game against Indy, but he's reportedly set to return against the Jets in Week 11. His role may ultimately be determined by Laurence Maroney's performance against the Colts. If Maroney appears hesitant and dances at the line, Morris should work his way into the mix immediately. If Maroney runs north and south decisively, he'd be the favorite for lead-back duties going into Weeks 11 and 12. Considering Maroney's history, Bill Belichick will be tempted to play Morris sooner rather than later.

Recommendation: Should be owned in 12-team leagues

Ladell Betts, Redskins – Clinton Portis (concussion) is doubtful to play this week, so Betts is likely to break into the starting lineup. The revamped offensive line will struggle to open holes against the Broncos, however, which limits Betts to flex value. Pick him up, but keep expectations low for the next couple of weeks.

Recommendation: Should be owned in 12-team leagues

Larry Johnson, Chiefs – The Patriots and Steelers taught the rest of the teams a lesson during the Michael Vick saga over the summer. Why express or deny interest in an available player when you can avoid controversy simply by saying, "We perform our due diligence on all available players, and so and so fits that category."

There isn't a backfield situation in the league dire enough to the point where Johnson would represent an upgrade right now. Throw in his anti-social behavior, a lack of respect for authority, and an inability to make plays at this stage of his career, and there's no reason for any team to sign him in 2009. If a team like the Texans is desperate enough to give him a look, however, feel free to stash him with an available roster spot. LJ won't be worth grabbing if the Redskins sign him.

Recommendation: Worth a look in deeper leagues

Kolby Smith - As discussed earlier, the Chiefs offense works best with Jamaal Charles on the field. Even if the coaches envision Smith as a better option between the tackles, the offensive line isn't opening holes. Running behind a similar line early in 2008, Smith averaged just 2.9 yards per carry on 35 attempts. While he may receive 8-10 touches per game going forward, a touch just isn't worth that much in this offense.

Recommendation: Worthy a look in deeper leagues

Ahman Green, Packers – Green isn't a threat to Ryan Grant's starting job, but he can be the more effective player with 10-12 touches per game. Green averaged an impressive 7.5 yards on six carries against the Bucs in his second game since signing. He'll be a bigger part of the gameplan than Brandon Jackson or DeShawn Wynn ever were in a similar role.

Recommendation: Worth a look in deeper leagues

Long-Term Fliers

Justin Forsett - Julius Jones received the game ball in Week 9, so Louis Rankin won't be eating into his carries anytime soon. Forsett should continue to see passing-down work, however.

Jerome Harrison - Is there a good reason to continue riding Jamal Lewis when he's set to retire after the season? Harrison should see more touches in the second half.

Cut Bait

Mike Bell - Back to spelling Pierre Thomas, he's now a handcuff rather than a flex option.

Willis McGahee - Didn't see a touch against the Bengals.



</FONT+1>WIDE RECEIVERS

Robert Meachem, Saints – Meachem was the best receiver on the field for the Saints in Week 9, changing the game's momentum with a 54-yard catch-and-run touchdown and later adding a huge catch over the middle in crunch time. The Saints have shown a preference for a time share at No. 2 receiver, but if he can nudge Devery Henderson into a strict situational deep threat role, Meachem has a realistic shot at weekly value. The injury-prone Lance Moore may be a forgotten man if he can't get back on the field soon.

Recommendation: Should be owned in 12-team leagues

Jacoby Jones, Texans – As NFL Network's Deion Sanders said after the Colts game, Jones isn't just a returner anymore, he's becoming a receiver. Jones has been making a highlight reel play at least once a game this season, and he saw his most extensive playing time at receiver in Week 9. With Owen Daniels out for the season, Jones fills the need for another playmaker in the passing game. He's an ideal stash because he has the talent to put up big numbers in a high-scoring offense if given the opportunity.

Recommendation: Worth a look in 12-team leagues

Justin Gage, Titans – Gage is the only Titans receiver who has a history with Vince Young, and he's emerged as the preferred target in V.Y.'s first two starts. Gage has led the team in targets (13), receptions (7), and yards (138) the past two weeks while separating from rookie Kenny Britt. Expect that trend to continue with Titans playing more competitively under Young.

Recommendation: Worth a look in 12-team leagues

Laveranues Coles, Bengals – After finding the end zone in Weeks 6 and 7, Coles emerged from the Week 8 bye with his best game of the season (6-72-0) against the Ravens. His top three fantasy performances have come in the last three games, and Chris Henry's (broken arm) absence should lead to a couple more looks per game. Coles won't be a great option against the Steelers this week, but he's worth carrying as a WR5.

Recommendation: Worth a look in deeper leagues

Davone Bess, Dolphins – A pecking order was finally established among Dolphins receivers nine weeks into the season. Bess was targeted 14 times against the Patriots and Greg Camarillo saw seven passes while Brian Hartline and Ted Ginn were afterthoughts as situational role players. Expect Bess and Camarillo to remain Chad Henne's preferred options, lending them speculative value in PPR leagues.

Recommendation: Worth a look in PPR leagues

Lance Long, Chiefs – A Todd Haley favorite going back to his days on the Cardinals practice squad, Long led the Chiefs in receptions (8), yards (74) and targets (11) in Week 9. It's not just a fluke performance either. Long was emerging as Matt Cassel's favorite target in Week 7 against the Chargers before leaving the game with a concussion. Owners in TD-heavy leagues will want to kick the tires on Chris Chambers instead, but Long is the pick in PPR leagues.

Recommendation: Worth a look in PPR leagues

Long-Term Fliers

James Jones - Has only 11 receptions through nine weeks, but coming off his best game of the season with a 4-103-1 line.

Danny Amendola - Had five receptions in Week 5 and Week 7 before sustaining a concussion in Week 8. He's been cleared to play this week and could be an option in PPR leagues later in the season.

Jason Hill - Flashed talent in the second-half of last season, and now returning to the slot receiver role once again. Caught all four targets, including two scores, in Week 9.

Sammie Stroughter - Rookie could see increased playing time with Antonio Bryant struggling to stay healthy.

Cut Bait

Anthony Gonzalez - The 2-3 week timetable for his return is awfully optimistic. He won't be rushed back with Pierre Garcon and Austin Collie playing well.

Antonio Bryant - Can't get over knee problems and whining about his contract situation again.

Mark Clayton - Has fewer receptions and yards than slot receiver Kelley Washington.

Lance Moore - Injured again and falling behind Meachem and Devery Henderson.

</FONT+1>TIGHT ENDS

Zach Miller, Raiders – As mentioned above, the Raiders offensive line is getting healthy. Miller is seventh among all tight ends in receiving yards this season. Even a slight improvement from JaMarcus Russell and the rest of the offense would make him a borderline Top-10 fantasy tight end.

Recommendation: Worth a look in 12-team leagues

Jermichael Finley, Packers – Coach Mike McCarthy considers Finley (knee) and Jordy Nelson (knee) close to returning to practice. Finley was starting to emerge as a weekly option before sustaining the injury, so Chris Cooley and Owen Daniels owners should consider stashing him for Week 11 and beyond.

Recommendation: Worth a look in 12-team leagues

Brandon Pettigrew, Lions – The rookie is coming off his best game of the season with seven receptions for 70 yards and a touchdown. Targeted inconsistently all season, he's more of a stash as opposed to a viable weekly starter.

Recommendation: Worth a look in deeper leagues

Long-Term Fliers

Gary Barnidge - Soft hands and terrific speed for a tight end, Barnidge may be the second-most talented player in the Panthers' passing game.

James Casey - Joel Dreessen isn't the answer at tight end. Casey could see increased playing time by the fantasy playoffs.

Cut Bait

Tony Scheffler - Back-to-back stinkbombs after the 100-yard performance three weeks ago.

Kevin Boss - Giants on bye this week, and Boss has just one game over three receptions all season.

</FONT+1>DEFENSE/SPECIAL TEAMS

Bengals - Former first-round corners Leon Hall and Jonathan Joseph are playing lights out, leading a Cincy defense that ranks fifth in the NFL and Top-12 in fantasy production. The Bengals are a viable weekly play going forward, but they're owned in less than half of all fantasy leagues.

Recommendation: Should be owned in all leagues

Dolphins - The Jason Taylor/Joey Porter pass-rushing tag-team is due for a bounceback this week at home against rookie Josh Freeman. Kickoff returner Ted Ginn is always a threat to take it to the house.

Recommendation: Worth picking up as a matchup play

HacheMan · Nov 11, 2009

Don't hesitate when making playoff push

By Matt Pitzer, USA TODAY
Having blown past the halfway point of the season, with one more week of byes and with the return of Thursday games this season, the fantasy playoffs will sneak up quickly.
Now is the time to take an honest look at your roster and try to shore up weak spots if you can. If the early-season spark you got from the New York Jets' Jerricho Cotchery is wearing off or if you're tired of crossing your fingers with a part-time back such as the Miami Dolphins' Ricky Williams, a shrewd move or two might be all you need.
Here are a few players who could prop you up over the latter part of the season:
•WR Bernard Berrian, Minnesota Vikings: Except for a Week 16 game at the Chicago Bears, the Vikings don't appear to have many challenging games remaining. They have five home games, and the only other road games are against the Arizona Cardinals and Carolina Panthers. But with the Vikings such a popular story, the only overlooked player might be Berrian, who has yet to get in sync with QB Brett Favre. Berrian used the bye week to shake off his minor injuries and finally might be the deep threat Minnesota hoped for. Also look at backup RB Chester Taylor, who is great insurance for Adrian Peterson. Taylor also has 24 catches.

DAILY DOSE: Was Steelers' Mendenhall the steal of the draft?

•WR Larry Fitzgerald, Cardinals: Going after one of the league's best receivers — who has had his share of disappointing games — would be a potential game-changer. You'll have to figure out the right time to pounce, which probably isn't now considering Fitzgerald's huge game Sunday. The Cardinals should have good chances to pile up some numbers, including games in Weeks 15-16 against the Detroit Lions and St. Louis Rams.

•RB Steven Jackson, Rams: As the only bright spot in a bad season, Jackson is on track for a career high in rushing yards but has one touchdown. If you can pick him up from someone frustrated by the lack of scoring, you will be rewarded with an easier slate of games in the second half of the season. And if the Rams score much at all, you know Jackson will be in the middle of it.
•WR Terrell Owens, Buffalo Bills: Yes, I went to the big disappointment. Owens had a painfully dreadful first half of the season and is on track for his worst season since he was a rookie, possibly worse than when the Philadelphia Eagles sent him home after seven games in 2005. But Trent Edwards is returning from a concussion, and the Bills get games against the Tennessee Titans and Jacksonville Jaguars to build some confidence. Of course, weather in Buffalo is an issue from here on, including a Week 15 home game against the New England Patriots.
•QB Philip Rivers, San Diego Chargers: Depending on how the Chargers get through tough games the next two weeks against the Eagles and Denver Broncos, you might be able to grab Rivers for the stretch run. San Diego will hit a stretch when it can pile up points against the Kansas City Chiefs, Cleveland Browns, Dallas Cowboys, Cincinnati Bengals and Tennessee through Week 16.
•RBs Pierre Thomas and Mike Bell, New Orleans Saints: They have been a frustrating pair, splitting time, and if you can acquire either (especially if you have the other), it will be worth it. The Saints have an easy schedule left, including games against the Rams, Atlanta Falcons, Panthers and two against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. There are no obvious bad-weather games, so they should keep scoring.

HacheMan · Nov 11, 2009

Studs, duds and sleepers: Panthers' Smith should soar against Falcons

A look at the upcoming weekend's fantasy football landscape:
Studs
Steven Jackson, RB, St. Louis. He put up 166 total yards and a touchdown in Week 8 before his bye. New Orleans has given up an average of 160 rushing yards and seven total rushing TDs over the past three games.
New York Jets defense. The Jets, on a 1-4 skid, appear rested and angry coming off their bye week. Jacksonville hasn't handled success well and is fit to be taken apart again on the road.
Ben Roethlisberger, QB, Pittsburgh. Out to avenge an earlier loss to the Bengals, Roethlisberger will take advantage of the league's No. 25 pass defense. Since that Week 3 loss, Big Ben has at least two TDs and a 100-plus passer rating in four of five games.
Steve Smith, WR, Carolina. A tough sell all season but this is a good week for Smith. He had a season-high 131 yards in Week 2 against Atlanta, he is averaging 131.7 yards in his past three games against the Falcons and Atlanta has allowed a league-worst 31 pass plays of at least 20 yards.
Ricky Williams, RB, Miami. He isn't taking Ronnie Brown's job, but Williams has been better over the past three games with four rushing TDs. Tampa Bay is No. 30 against the run with 163.4 rushing yards allowed per week.
Duds

Cedric Benson, RB, Cincinnati. Benson had a solid 76 yards and a TD in the Bengals' first game against Pittsburgh. But safety Troy Polamalu is playing now and the Steelers' run defense is back to No. 1.
Greg Jennings, WR, Green Bay. He couldn't take advantage of the Buccaneers and still has only two TDs on the season and no 100-yard games since September. Dallas, meanwhile, shut down Eagles' big-play threat DeSean Jackson and will not give QB Aaron Rodgers much time to throw.
Calvin Johnson, WR, Detroit. Johnson and rookie QB Matthew Stafford are struggling to get on the same page. Stafford threw five interceptions last week, threw two to the Vikings in a Week 2 loss, and all of those mistakes hurt Johnson's chances.
Kyle Orton, QB, Denver. The Broncos' offense clearly is struggling with one offensive touchdown in the past two games. Meanwhile, Washington's pass defense has jumped up to No. 1 in the league -- mostly because teams are running on them more.
Beanie Wells, RB, Arizona. Wells has yet to follow up on any hints of success and there is little reason to expect that to change against visiting NFC West rival Seattle. He is averaging just 24.5 rushing yards in four home games vs. 53.0 on the road.
Sleepers
Lance Long, WR, Kansas City. Along with new teammate Chris Chambers, Long is earning looks from owners desperate for receiving help. He has 10 catches in his two games working out of the slot and could be useful in point-per-reception leagues.
Darren McFadden, RB, Oakland. The Raiders' 26th-ranked run game can use some help from McFadden, returning from a Week 4 knee injury. McFadden could have immediate success as Kansas City comes in with the No. 28 run defense.
Antwaan Randle El, WR, Washington. Despite not having more than 39 yards since Week 1, Randle El could have success. The Broncos have been so bad defending slot receivers, they had to sign Ty Law, who might not be up to handling the agile Randle El.
Alex Smith, QB, San Francisco. Seeing the Bears on Thursday should help erase doubt about Smith's performance last week. In two of their past three games, the Bears have allowed the opposing quarterback to throw five TD passes.
LenDale White, RB, Tennessee. Thanks to QB Vince Young making them competitive, the Titans have run 83 times the past two weeks. Some of those carries will trickle down to White against the Bills' league-worst run defense.

HacheMan · Nov 12, 2009

Week 10 Rankings
In August, Rashard Mendenhall was called "ordinary" by the Pittsburgh media. He finished September in Mike Tomlin's doghouse, with seven carries for the month. Now it's early November, and he's an every-week fantasy starter.

Mendenhall is a reminder of a few fantasy maxims. 1. Things change fast. It doesn't matter how ugly your starting lineup looks in Week 3 if it's peaking near playoff time. This year's Pierre Thomas, next month's Mendenhall, is still out there.

Second lesson: If you are going to gamble in fantasy drafts, gamble with youth at running back. Mendenhall went in drafts after Larry Johnson, who owners had hopes would bounce back for the third straight year. He went after Willie Parker, who we saw begin to collapse last year.

I ranked LaDainian Tomlinson out of the top-15 this year, which was met by cries that Rotoworld was giving up on the old star too fast. He was going to be healthy and turn it around! I did a poor job because LT2 wasn't rank him nearly low enough. No matter how much we adjust for a running back's decline once it starts, we almost never adjust enough.

Mendenhall still has a lot to prove as an NFL running back. He doesn't help on passing downs much, and he's prone to losing yards and piling up short gains before breaking a few long ones. He doesn't always fight through traffic.

The profile is remarkably similar to a bigger version of Willie Parker in his prime. That approach isn't perfect for the Steelers, but it will lead to top-10-15 fantasy running back production. He'll get the vast majority of carries on a team that should play with the lead often and has an outstanding passing game. That's more than enough for all the owners that smartly gambled on youth in August, then had the patience to see it emerge.

[SIZE=+1]Week 10 Quarterbacks[/SIZE]

<TABLE 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>Drew Brees</TD><TD>at STL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>2</TD><TD>Peyton Manning</TD><TD>vs. NE</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>3</TD><TD>Tom Brady</TD><TD>at IND</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>4</TD><TD>Aaron Rodgers</TD><TD>vs. DAL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>5</TD><TD>Brett Favre</TD><TD>vs. DET</TD><TD>Probable(hip)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>6</TD><TD>Tony Romo</TD><TD>at GB</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>7</TD><TD>Kurt Warner</TD><TD>vs. SEA</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>8</TD><TD>Philip Rivers</TD><TD>vs. PHI</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>9</TD><TD>Jay Cutler</TD><TD>at SF</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>10</TD><TD>Donovan McNabb</TD><TD>at SD</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>11</TD><TD>Joe Flacco</TD><TD>at CLE</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>12</TD><TD>Ben Roethlisberger</TD><TD>vs. CIN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>13</TD><TD>Carson Palmer</TD><TD>at PIT</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>14</TD><TD>Alex Smith</TD><TD>vs. CHI</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>15</TD><TD>Matt Hasselbeck</TD><TD>at ARZ</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>16</TD><TD>Matt Ryan</TD><TD>at CAR</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>17</TD><TD>Chad Henne</TD><TD>vs. TB</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>18</TD><TD>Vince Young</TD><TD>vs. BUF</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>19</TD><TD>Kyle Orton</TD><TD>at WAS</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>20</TD><TD>David Garrard</TD><TD>at NYJ</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>21</TD><TD>Trent Edwards</TD><TD>at TEN</TD><TD>Probable(concussion)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>22</TD><TD>Matt Cassel</TD><TD>at OAK</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>23</TD><TD>Marc Bulger</TD><TD>vs. NO</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>24</TD><TD>Mark Sanchez</TD><TD>vs. JAC</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>25</TD><TD>Josh Freeman</TD><TD>at MIA</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>26</TD><TD>Brady Quinn</TD><TD>vs. BAL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>27</TD><TD>Matthew Stafford</TD><TD>at MIN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>28</TD><TD>Jake Delhomme</TD><TD>vs. ATL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>29</TD><TD>Jason Campbell</TD><TD>vs. DEN</TD><TD>Probable(ankle)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>30</TD><TD>JaMarcus Russell</TD><TD>vs. KC</TD><TD>- </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

So we're on a new weekly schedule with Thursday Night Football starting. By popular request, the rankings will go up by Wednesday evening at the latest. (Rankings will continue to first appear on Season Pass Tuesdays at noon, with full projections on Wednesdays.)

QB Notes: The loss of two Philadelphia cornerbacks should help Philip Rivers this week. So does the fact that San Diego gives up running quickly when they face quality rush defenses. … Ben Roethlisberger and Carson Palmer probably won't put up huge numbers in a game that is likely to be a defensive struggle. But who are you going to bench them for … Alex Smith? Maybe because he faces the Bears, but it gets too shaky after that. … I'm staying away from slumping Matt Ryan against one of the pass defenses in the league. You attack Atlanta on the ground.

I'm intrigued by Josh Freeman, but haven't been able to watch the game yet. The matchup is right and his running ability could give him significant value in 2 QB leagues the rest of the way. … David Garrard just hasn't been competent against quality opponents, so expect an ugly game against a rested Jets defense. … Jay Cutler is going to have to continue throwing like crazy to keep up with Chicago's terrible defense, not to mention running game. He's on his way to a remarkably similar season to the one that we would have expected in Denver. … Kurt Warner owners have to live with the ups and downs. With the schedule he has, there shouldn't be a lot of downs coming up.

Chad Henne isn't a bad play if you need help this week, but how many teams really need help? It's hard not to have a reasonable QB1 on your roster in this pass-crazy season. … Kyle Orton has a very small margin for error most weeks. I think the Broncos will find a way to blow out the Redskins, but Orton's lack of vertical plays makes him a QB2, and not a particularly exciting one. … Joe Flacco threw for 342 yards on 35 attempts last time against Cleveland in a 34-3 win. Cam Cameron will continue to throw the ball even with a lead so the young quarterback gets work. Hard to sit him.


[SIZE=+1]Week 10 Running Backs[/SIZE]

<TABLE 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>Adrian Peterson</TD><TD>vs. DET</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>2</TD><TD>Chris Johnson</TD><TD>vs. BUF</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>3</TD><TD>Ray Rice</TD><TD>at CLE</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>4</TD><TD>Frank Gore</TD><TD>vs. CHI</TD><TD>Probable(eye)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>5</TD><TD>Maurice Jones-Drew</TD><TD>at NYJ</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>6</TD><TD>Michael Turner</TD><TD>at CAR</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>7</TD><TD>DeAngelo Williams</TD><TD>vs. ATL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>8</TD><TD>Ronnie Brown</TD><TD>vs. TB</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>9</TD><TD>Cedric Benson</TD><TD>at PIT</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>10</TD><TD>Pierre Thomas</TD><TD>at STL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>11</TD><TD>Steven Jackson</TD><TD>vs. NO</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>12</TD><TD>Rashard Mendenhall</TD><TD>vs. CIN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>13</TD><TD>Matt Forte</TD><TD>at SF</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>14</TD><TD>Thomas Jones</TD><TD>vs. JAC</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>15</TD><TD>Marion Barber</TD><TD>at GB</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>16</TD><TD>Ryan Grant</TD><TD>vs. DAL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>17</TD><TD>Brian Westbrook</TD><TD>at SD</TD><TD>Questionable(ankle)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>18</TD><TD>Marshawn Lynch</TD><TD>at TEN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>19</TD><TD>Ricky Williams</TD><TD>vs. TB</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>20</TD><TD>Joseph Addai</TD><TD>vs. NE</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>21</TD><TD>Tim Hightower</TD><TD>vs. SEA</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>22</TD><TD>Kevin Smith</TD><TD>at MIN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>23</TD><TD>LeSean McCoy</TD><TD>at SD</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>24</TD><TD>Mike Bell</TD><TD>at STL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>25</TD><TD>Darren McFadden</TD><TD>vs. KC</TD><TD></TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>26</TD><TD>Laurence Maroney</TD><TD>at IND</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>27</TD><TD>Knowshon Moreno</TD><TD>at WAS</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>28</TD><TD>Chris Wells</TD><TD>vs. SEA</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>29</TD><TD>Ladell Betts</TD><TD>vs. DEN</TD><TD>Probable(ankle)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>30</TD><TD>Jonathan Stewart</TD><TD>vs. ATL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>31</TD><TD>Shonn Greene</TD><TD>vs. JAC</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>32</TD><TD>Julius Jones</TD><TD>at ARZ</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>33</TD><TD>LaDainian Tomlinson</TD><TD>vs. PHI</TD><TD>Questionable(hip)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>34</TD><TD>Chester Taylor</TD><TD>vs. DET</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>35</TD><TD>Carnell Williams</TD><TD>at MIA</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>36</TD><TD>Donald Brown</TD><TD>vs. NE</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>37</TD><TD>Jamaal Charles</TD><TD>at OAK</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>38</TD><TD>Reggie Bush</TD><TD>at STL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>39</TD><TD>Darren Sproles</TD><TD>vs. PHI</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>40</TD><TD>Fred Jackson</TD><TD>at TEN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>41</TD><TD>Felix Jones</TD><TD>at GB</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>42</TD><TD>Kolby Smith</TD><TD>at OAK</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>43</TD><TD>Jamal Lewis</TD><TD>vs. BAL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>44</TD><TD>Willis McGahee</TD><TD>at CLE</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>45</TD><TD>Derrick Ward</TD><TD>at MIA</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>46</TD><TD>Correll Buckhalter</TD><TD>at WAS</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>47</TD><TD>LenDale White</TD><TD>vs. BUF</TD><TD>Probable(knee)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>48</TD><TD>Tashard Choice</TD><TD>at GB</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>49</TD><TD>Kevin Faulk</TD><TD>at IND</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>50</TD><TD>Justin Fargas</TD><TD>vs. KC</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>51</TD><TD>Michael Bush</TD><TD>vs. KC</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>52</TD><TD>Jerome Harrison</TD><TD>vs. BAL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>53</TD><TD>Ahman Green</TD><TD>vs. DAL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>54</TD><TD>Bernard Scott</TD><TD>at PIT</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>55</TD><TD>Willie Parker</TD><TD>vs. CIN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>56</TD><TD>Maurice Morris</TD><TD>at MIN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>57</TD><TD>Rashad Jennings</TD><TD>at NYJ</TD><TD>- </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

RB Notes: Who said workhorses are dead? Eight running backs are on pace for 1,400 yards rushing. That's mostly due to excellent efficiency, though, not heavy use. Only four runners are on pace for 300 carries. Another four – DeAngelo Williams, Maurice Jones-Drew, Ryan Grant, and Thomas Jones – are on pace for 290-300. … In theory, Brett Favre's boffo first half should allow Adrian Peterson to have a few more monster games. All Day does not have many difficult matchups left. One "risk" this week is that they don't need him much. He only had 15 carries last time against Detroit, but still had a nice fantasy day. This is definitely a week you can use Chester Taylor as a flex.

Taylor isn't the only backup worth a strong look this week because of a mismatch. Mike Bell could clean up late in a potential Saints blowout. We expect the Dolphins to manhandle Tampa Bay up front, which should lead to nice games from Ronnie Brown and Ricky Williams. Atlanta's rush defense has struggled in recent weeks, so Jonathan Stewart isn't a terrible option. Take those quality backups over some weak starters like LaDainian Tomlinson. … We like Ladell Betts because he can carry the load by himself and is a quality receiver. His matchup isn't friendly, but he could rack up receptions if the Redskins fall behind early, so he's a better option in PPR leagues. … The Patriots know the Colts are vulnerable to the run when they have a lot of small defensive backs on the field, which is inevitable. As long as Sammy Morris doesn't play, Laurence Maroney has earned a little trust with his last two efforts. Fantasy Nation may not be confident in him, but the Patriots oddly still are.

DeAngelo Williams' schedule gets a lot tougher down the stretch. He's a logical sell-high after a few more strong games, although you need to get a ton of value. … Matt Forte probably won't get a lot done on the ground Thursday night, but look for a high scoring game in which he does plenty of damage in the receiving game. … The Chargers have improved their run defense, but I'd use both Brian Westbrook and LeSean McCoy against them – assuming Westbrook plays. If he doesn't McCoy is a RB2 instead of a flex. … It's hard to get too excited about Jamaal Charles. Kolby Smith is already splitting up the work and could steal touchdowns. … It appears Donald Brown will make his return, which makes Joseph Addai much less exciting.


[SIZE=+1]Week 10 Wide Receivers[/SIZE]

<TABLE 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>Larry Fitzgerald</TD><TD>vs. SEA</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>2</TD><TD>Marques Colston</TD><TD>at STL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>3</TD><TD>Vincent Jackson</TD><TD>vs. PHI</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>4</TD><TD>Randy Moss</TD><TD>at IND</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>5</TD><TD>Reggie Wayne</TD><TD>vs. NE</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>6</TD><TD>DeSean Jackson</TD><TD>at SD</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>7</TD><TD>Wes Welker</TD><TD>at IND</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>8</TD><TD>Roddy White</TD><TD>at CAR</TD><TD>Probable(knee)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>9</TD><TD>Chad Ochocinco</TD><TD>at PIT</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>10</TD><TD>Brandon Marshall</TD><TD>at WAS</TD><TD>Probable(back)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>11</TD><TD>Miles Austin</TD><TD>at GB</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>12</TD><TD>Calvin Johnson</TD><TD>at MIN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>13</TD><TD>Greg Jennings</TD><TD>vs. DAL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>14</TD><TD>Donald Driver</TD><TD>vs. DAL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>15</TD><TD>Steve Smith</TD><TD>vs. ATL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>16</TD><TD>Devin Hester</TD><TD>at SF</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>17</TD><TD>Mike Sims-Walker</TD><TD>at NYJ</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>18</TD><TD>Sidney Rice</TD><TD>vs. DET</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>19</TD><TD>Nate Burleson</TD><TD>at ARZ</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>20</TD><TD>Derrick Mason</TD><TD>at CLE</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>21</TD><TD>Anquan Boldin</TD><TD>vs. SEA</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>22</TD><TD>Jerricho Cotchery</TD><TD>vs. JAC</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>23</TD><TD>Santonio Holmes</TD><TD>vs. CIN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>24</TD><TD>Hines Ward</TD><TD>vs. CIN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>25</TD><TD>Steve Breaston</TD><TD>vs. SEA</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>26</TD><TD>T.J. Houshmandzadeh</TD><TD>at ARZ</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>27</TD><TD>Dwayne Bowe</TD><TD>at OAK</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>28</TD><TD>Percy Harvin</TD><TD>vs. DET</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>29</TD><TD>Michael Crabtree</TD><TD>vs. CHI</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>30</TD><TD>Earl Bennett</TD><TD>at SF</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>31</TD><TD>Lee Evans</TD><TD>at TEN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>32</TD><TD>Bernard Berrian</TD><TD>vs. DET</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>33</TD><TD>Braylon Edwards</TD><TD>vs. JAC</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>34</TD><TD>Malcom Floyd</TD><TD>vs. PHI</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>35</TD><TD>Austin Collie</TD><TD>vs. NE</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>36</TD><TD>Jeremy Maclin</TD><TD>at SD</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>37</TD><TD>Roy Williams</TD><TD>at GB</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>38</TD><TD>Terrell Owens</TD><TD>at TEN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>39</TD><TD>Antonio Bryant</TD><TD>at MIA</TD><TD>Sidelined(knee)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>40</TD><TD>Pierre Garcon</TD><TD>vs. NE</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>41</TD><TD>Devery Henderson</TD><TD>at STL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>42</TD><TD>Santana Moss</TD><TD>vs. DEN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>43</TD><TD>Johnny Knox</TD><TD>at SF</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>44</TD><TD>Mohamed Massaquoi</TD><TD>vs. BAL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>45</TD><TD>Davone Bess</TD><TD>vs. TB</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>46</TD><TD>Mark Clayton</TD><TD>at CLE</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>47</TD><TD>Eddie Royal</TD><TD>at WAS</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>48</TD><TD>Greg Camarillo</TD><TD>vs. TB</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>49</TD><TD>Donnie Avery</TD><TD>vs. NO</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>50</TD><TD>Laveranues Coles</TD><TD>at PIT</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>51</TD><TD>Mike Wallace</TD><TD>vs. CIN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>52</TD><TD>Torry Holt</TD><TD>at NYJ</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>53</TD><TD>James Jones</TD><TD>vs. DAL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>54</TD><TD>Justin Gage</TD><TD>vs. BUF</TD><TD>Questionable(back)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>55</TD><TD>Patrick Crayton</TD><TD>at GB</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>56</TD><TD>Nate Washington</TD><TD>vs. BUF</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>57</TD><TD>Josh Morgan</TD><TD>vs. CHI</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>58</TD><TD>Andre Caldwell</TD><TD>at PIT</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>59</TD><TD>Chris Chambers</TD><TD>at OAK</TD><TD>Probable(foot)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>60</TD><TD>Deion Branch</TD><TD>at ARZ</TD><TD>- </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

WR Notes: It doesn't figure to be a standout game for Mike Sims-Walker, who is facing Darrelle Revis and a Jets pass defense that leads the league in yards per attempt allowed by a wide margin. But sitting the SkyWalker if you don't have another top-20 option smacks of overthinking things. I still go back to FootballOutsiders' study that matchups don't make that big a difference on fantasy production, especially at wide receiver. It's difficult to bench a guy that has produced WR1 numbers. … DeSean Jackson + San Diego's gambling secondary should equal a lot of big plays. … Roddy White has been a little up and down, but I'm shocked by the emailers that consider benching him every week. Even against the Panthers, it's not an option unless you have three top ten receivers.

Steve Breaston averages 6.5 targets a game. It doesn't change than much when Anquan Boldin plays, so still use him against the Seahawks this week if Boldin is active. … Now is the time to try to trade for Calvin Johnson. Fantasy championships are won with front-line talent and risk-taking. There will be a few desperate Megatron owners out there ready to give him up for a receiver that has played better lately. … Chris Chambers is still Chris Chambers – an inconsistent player. He had only four targets last week and isn't 100% healthy. Most importantly, he plays on the shaky Chiefs offense. Stay away.

Owners needing a lifeline this week could do a lot worse than Greg Camarillo and Davone Bess against the Bucs. … Upgrade Lee Evans a handful of spots if Terrell Owens' hip injury doesn't improve. … Cincy's starting cornerbacks are playing as well as any duo in the league, so you could consider benching Santonio Holmes or Hines Ward. In the end, they are tough to sit unless you have three top-20 options. … Earl Bennett has earned the right to start most weeks. … Not buying the Roy Williams resurgence, especially against a Packers team that plays good, physical press coverage.

[SIZE=+1]Week 10 Tight Ends[/SIZE]

<TABLE 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>Antonio Gates</TD><TD>vs. PHI</TD><TD>Probable(foot)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>2</TD><TD>Vernon Davis</TD><TD>vs. CHI</TD><TD>Probable(shoulder)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>3</TD><TD>Dallas Clark</TD><TD>vs. NE</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>4</TD><TD>Brent Celek</TD><TD>at SD</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>5</TD><TD>Jason Witten</TD><TD>at GB</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>6</TD><TD>Jeremy Shockey</TD><TD>at STL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>7</TD><TD>Greg Olsen</TD><TD>at SF</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>8</TD><TD>Heath Miller</TD><TD>vs. CIN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>9</TD><TD>Kellen Winslow</TD><TD>at MIA</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>10</TD><TD>Tony Gonzalez</TD><TD>at CAR</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>11</TD><TD>Visanthe Shiancoe</TD><TD>vs. DET</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>12</TD><TD>Dustin Keller</TD><TD>vs. JAC</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>13</TD><TD>John Carlson</TD><TD>at ARZ</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>14</TD><TD>Zach Miller</TD><TD>vs. KC</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>15</TD><TD>Todd Heap</TD><TD>at CLE</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>16</TD><TD>Brandon Pettigrew</TD><TD>at MIN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>17</TD><TD>Fred Davis</TD><TD>vs. DEN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>18</TD><TD>Tony Scheffler</TD><TD>at WAS</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>19</TD><TD>Marcedes Lewis</TD><TD>at NYJ</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>20</TD><TD>Donald Lee</TD><TD>vs. DAL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>21</TD><TD>Ben Watson</TD><TD>at IND</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>22</TD><TD>Randy McMichael</TD><TD>vs. NO</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>23</TD><TD>Bo Scaife</TD><TD>vs. BUF</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>24</TD><TD>Anthony Fasano</TD><TD>vs. TB</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>25</TD><TD>Sean Ryan</TD><TD>at OAK</TD><TD>- </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

TE Notes: Dallas Clark won't have 14 catches this week. The Patriots will build their defense around shutting down Clark first, and they have the safeties to pull it off. You can't sit him, but expect a quieter week than usual. … Greg Olsen's one-week explosion could extend into Week 10. San Francisco's pass defense has slowly declined all year, and we expect a shootout Thursday night. … As an Antonio Gates owner, I like it when the Chargers face a quality rush defense. They have learned to quickly give up on LaDainian Tomlinson and concentrate on a pass-heavy approach. With Philadelphia short in the secondary, Gates should have a big game.

Vernon Davis should be able to back up his midweek talk because Chicago's secondary is not physical and they don't have a linebacker that can cover him. … Jason Witten has been a disappointment. It's not a bad time to buy low because he still gets a lot of targets. He's never been a burner, but he's finding it more difficult to make plays after the catch than ever. Still, we don't trust Roy Williams and Witten's production should inch up. … Game one of the Josh Freeman era was encouraging for Kellen Winslow owners, but let's see how the kid does when he's not set up in the red zone a few times. This week will be telling, because Miami has struggled to cover tight ends all year. … Dustin Keller is available in a lot of leagues – he shouldn't be.

[SIZE=+1]Week 10 Team Defense[/SIZE]

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

[SIZE=+1]Week 10 Kickers[/SIZE]

<TABLE 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>Ryan Longwell</TD><TD>vs. DET</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>2</TD><TD>Stephen Gostkowski</TD><TD>at IND</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>3</TD><TD>John Carney</TD><TD>at STL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>4</TD><TD>David Akers</TD><TD>at SD</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>5</TD><TD>Nate Kaeding</TD><TD>vs. PHI</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>6</TD><TD>Matt Stover</TD><TD>vs. NE</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>7</TD><TD>Nick Folk</TD><TD>at GB</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>8</TD><TD>Mason Crosby</TD><TD>vs. DAL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>9</TD><TD>Josh Scobee</TD><TD>at NYJ</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>10</TD><TD>Rob Bironas</TD><TD>vs. BUF</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>11</TD><TD>Dan Carpenter</TD><TD>vs. TB</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>12</TD><TD>Matt Prater</TD><TD>at WAS</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>13</TD><TD>Robbie Gould</TD><TD>at SF</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>14</TD><TD>Neil Rackers</TD><TD>vs. SEA</TD><TD>Probable(right calf)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>15</TD><TD>Steven Hauschka</TD><TD>at CLE</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>16</TD><TD>Shayne Graham</TD><TD>at PIT</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>17</TD><TD>Jeff Reed</TD><TD>vs. CIN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>18</TD><TD>Olindo Mare</TD><TD>at ARZ</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>19</TD><TD>Shaun Suisham</TD><TD>vs. DEN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>20</TD><TD>Joe Nedney</TD><TD>vs. CHI</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>21</TD><TD>Jason Elam</TD><TD>at CAR</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>22</TD><TD>Jay Feely</TD><TD>vs. JAC</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>23</TD><TD>Rian Lindell</TD><TD>at TEN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>24</TD><TD>Sebastian Janikowski</TD><TD>vs. KC</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>25</TD><TD>John Kasay</TD><TD>vs. ATL</TD><TD>Questionable(groin)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>26</TD><TD>Jason Hanson</TD><TD>at MIN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>27</TD><TD>Connor Barth</TD><TD>at MIA</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>28</TD><TD>Phil Dawson</TD><TD>vs. BAL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>29</TD><TD>Ryan Succop</TD><TD>at OAK</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>30</TD><TD>Josh Brown</TD><TD>vs. NO</TD><TD>- </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

HacheMan · Nov 12, 2009

Williams on the run again
DeAngelo Williams is on one of those streaks. And when we say "those streaks," we are of course referring to the epic run that won fantasy leagues last season.

Over his last four games, Williams is averaging 137 rushing yards and 1 ¼ touchdowns with a gaudy 6.08 yards per carry mark. Wowzers. He's held off Jonathan Stewart with ease (149 carries vs. 87 on the season) and is even getting 44.7 % of the Red Zone carrries, as Brad Morgan told us in Wednesday's report.

This proves that last year was no fluke -- Williams is an elite back and a better all-around runner than Stewart. If nothing else, we thought there would be a natural statistical regression off 2008. But Williams is on pace for 1,536 rushing yards and 14 touchdowns this year.

Now the question is, can Williams burn the engines like this for the rest of the season? I say no, and yesterday's missed practice due to a knee injury is just a small reason why. That knee injury isn't known to be serious, but Williams' schedule down the stretch this year is.

Jake Delhomme is nothing more than a "game manager" at this point and the Panthers have no receiving weapons outside of Steve Smith. The defensive game plan is going to be stopping the run at all costs and Williams' opponents in Weeks 14, 15 and 16 are very adept at doing just that.

Williams will play in New England in Week 14, then has a home date with the Vikings followed by a road game at the Giants. If he's going to go off for 130 yards and two touchdowns against that schedule with this quarterback in that weather, more power to him. It's simply not a probability and following this week's game against the Falcons could be a good time to see what you can get for D-Will.

Speaking of bad playoff schedules, here are the worst ones in Weeks 15 and 16:

1. BEARS: @ Ravens, vs. Vikings - If you make it this far with Matt Forte on your roster, it's time for another advil.
2. PANTHERS: vs. Vikings, @ Giants - Will Steve Smith's head pop off out of frustration by then?
3. REDSKINS: vs. Giants, vs. Cowboys - Can't really recommend a single Redskins' skill player right now.

If you're interested in a quick look at the teams with the best five playoff schedules, go to Pancake Blocks here.

Editor's Note: For rankings, complete projections, and a host of other exclusive material for Week 10, head to Rotoworld's Season Pass..

NEWS OF THE DAY #2
Brian Westbrook was held out of practice Wednesday, reportedly because the Eagles were practicing on field turf indoors. That surface isn't good for his ankle, which swelled up after non-contact practice last week. Westbrook is expected to practice Thursday, but how much can we really expect in San Diego this week even if he plays? Forget about the concussion -- this ankle issue is chronic. Westbrook has no cartilage left in the joint and it's not getting better. Expect LeSean McCoy to be the starter one way or another by Week 1 of the 2010 season.

NEWS OF THE DAY #3
The Derek Anderson vs. Brady Quinn situation reminds me of the "if a tree falls in the woods" saying. They are both equally inept and overpaid. Don't adjust the value of any Browns skill players now that Quinn is back in the saddle. His 8.89 yards per completion mark on the season is almost as remarkable as Anderson's 36.2 quarterback rating.

NEWS OF THE DAY #4
Darren McFadden (knee) practiced fully Wednesday and appears ready to make his return this week. It's impossible to predict exactly how much or in what role McFadden will be used this week, so stash him for now. Before the season is over McFadden should be the feature back once again.

Editor's Note: For rankings, complete projections, and a host of other exclusive material for Week 10, head to Rotoworld's Season Pass..

INJURY QUICK SLANTS: RUNNING BACKS
LaDainian Tomlinson unexpectedly missed practice with a hip injury, but he says it's not serious. All his nagging injuries combined are serious. … Ladell Betts (ankle) and Clinton Portis (concussion) both missed practice. Betts is fully expected to start, while Portis will almost certainly sit out. … Donald Brown (shoulder) practiced in full, although he did that last Wednesday as well before sitting Sunday out. … Sammy Morris (knee) missed practice and isn't expected back until Week 11 at the earliest.

INJURY QUICK SLANT: QUARTERBACKS:
Brett Favre was limited Wednesday with groin and hip problems but is certain to start.

INJURY QUICK SLANTS: RECEIVERS AND TIGHT ENDS:
Calvin Johnson practiced in full Wednesday. His knee is not an issue. … Anquan Boldin (ankle) practiced in full and is good to go for Sunday. … Antonio Gates (foot) missed practice, but it's almost certainly just a precaution. … Brandon Marshall popped up on the injury report with a bad back but should be fine as he played the entire game Monday night. … Chaz Schilens (foot) has resumed practicing without limitations, but he's not worth an add. … Chris Chambers was limited Wednesday with a foot injury -- he can't afford to lose any more speed or quickness. … Roddy White (knee) was limited but it doesn't seem like a serious issue. … Justin Gage missed practice with overall body soreness and is questionable for Sunday. … Isaac Bruce (ankle) had a setback is not expected to play Thursday. … Antonio Bryant (knee) sat out another practice and isn't a fantasy option. … Muhsin Muhammad (knee) returned to practice, sending Dwayne Jarrett back to his No. 3 role. … Marques Colston missed practice with the flu, but he doesn't have the Swine. … Terrell Owens (hip) missed practice and could be looking at a game-time decision. … Jermichael Finley (knee) still isn't back at practice and won't be an option even if he plays. … Hakeem Nicks had a 103-degree fever Wednesday but has the bye week to recover.

DEPTH CHART QUICK SLANTS:
Chiefs coach Todd Haley said he wouldn't put it past Kolby Smith taking over as the starting running back. … James Hardy was activated from the PUP but won't see many snaps on Sundays. … Brandon Gibson is taking reps with the Rams' starters at practice. … Jamal Lewis said once again that he wants to retire after the season. He sounds serious. … The Redskins ruled out signing free agent Larry Johnson. … Trent Edwards is officially back as the Bills' starting quarterback, as expected. … Steven Hauschka is on a short leash, but seems certain to kick for the Ravens this week.

HacheMan · Nov 13, 2009

Value Meter: Dolphins running back Brown will rebound against Bucs

Here is Matt Pitzer's updated Value Meter for Week 10.

Despite rushing for less than 50 yards in three consecutive games, Miami Dolphins running back Ronnie Brown checks in at No. 4 on the running back rankings. Expect fireworks in the top matchup of the week as Colts star Peyton Manning is tops at quarterbacks while his opponent Tom Brady is third.
Remember, the Houston Texans and New York Giants have bye weeks.
Now that you know what Matt is thinking, draft a team in 15 minutes and play him and others in RapidDraft. You could win $50,000. Click here for the latest player notes and the inactives on game days. Also, if you have any last minute questions, Matt will chat in Fantasy Joe on Sunday 11:45 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. ET. Good luck.
Quarterbacks
<TABLE border=1 cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width=420 align=center><TBODY><TR><TD>01.</TD><TD>Peyton Manning, Ind.</TD><TD>vs. N.E.</TD></TR><TR><TD>02.</TD><TD>Drew Brees, N.O.</TD><TD>at St.L.</TD></TR><TR><TD>03.</TD><TD>Tom Brady, N.E.</TD><TD>at Ind.</TD></TR><TR><TD>04.</TD><TD>Brett Favre, Min.</TD><TD>vs. Det.</TD></TR><TR><TD>05.</TD><TD>Donovan McNabb, Phi.</TD><TD>at S.D.</TD></TR><TR><TD>06.</TD><TD>Ben Roethlisberger, Pit.</TD><TD>vs. Cin.</TD></TR><TR><TD>07.</TD><TD>Philip Rivers, S.D.</TD><TD>vs. Phi.</TD></TR><TR><TD>08.</TD><TD>Aaron Rodgers, G.B.</TD><TD>vs. Dal.</TD></TR><TR><TD>09.</TD><TD>Kurt Warner, Ari.</TD><TD>vs. Sea.</TD></TR><TR><TD>10.</TD><TD>Tony Romo, Dal.</TD><TD>at G.B.</TD></TR><TR><TD>11.</TD><TD>Matt Ryan, Atl.</TD><TD>at Car.</TD></TR><TR><TD>12.</TD><TD>Jay Cutler, Chi.</TD><TD>at S.F.</TD></TR><TR><TD>13.</TD><TD>Matt Hasselbeck, Sea.</TD><TD>at Ari.</TD></TR><TR><TD>14.</TD><TD>Carson Palmer, Cin.</TD><TD>at Pit.</TD></TR><TR><TD>15.</TD><TD>Joe Flacco, Bal.</TD><TD>at Cle.</TD></TR><TR><TD>16.</TD><TD>Matt Cassel, K.C.</TD><TD>at Oak.</TD></TR><TR><TD>17.</TD><TD>Kyle Orton, Den.</TD><TD>at Was.</TD></TR><TR><TD>18.</TD><TD>Alex Smith, S.F.</TD><TD>vs. Chi.</TD></TR><TR><TD>19.</TD><TD>Vince Young, Ten.</TD><TD>vs. Buf.</TD></TR><TR><TD>20.</TD><TD>David Garrard, Jac.</TD><TD>at. N.Y.-J</TD></TR><TR><TD>21.</TD><TD>Chad Henne, Mia.</TD><TD>vs. T.B.</TD></TR><TR><TD>22.</TD><TD>Mark Sanchez, N.Y.-J</TD><TD>vs. Jac.</TD></TR><TR><TD>23.</TD><TD>Trent Edwards, Buf.</TD><TD>at Ten.</TD></TR><TR><TD>24.</TD><TD>*Jason Campbell, Was.</TD><TD>vs. Den.</TD></TR><TR><TD>25.</TD><TD>Marc Bulger, St.L.</TD><TD>vs. N.O.</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>
Running backs
<TABLE border=1 cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width=420 align=center><TBODY><TR><TD>01.</TD><TD>Adrian Peterson, Min.</TD><TD>vs. Det.</TD></TR><TR><TD>02.</TD><TD>Chris Johnson, Ten.</TD><TD>vs. Buf.</TD></TR><TR><TD>03.</TD><TD>Michael Turner, Atl.</TD><TD>at Car.</TD></TR><TR><TD>04.</TD><TD>Ronnie Brown, Mia.</TD><TD>vs. T.B.</TD></TR><TR><TD>05.</TD><TD>DeAngelo Williams, Car.</TD><TD>vs. Atl.</TD></TR><TR><TD>06.</TD><TD>Ray Rice, Bal.</TD><TD>at Cle.</TD></TR><TR><TD>07.</TD><TD>Frank Gore, S.F.</TD><TD>vs. Chi.</TD></TR><TR><TD>08.</TD><TD>Maurice Jones-Drew, Jac.</TD><TD>at. N.Y.-J</TD></TR><TR><TD>09.</TD><TD>Rashard Mendenhall, Pit.</TD><TD>vs. Cin.</TD></TR><TR><TD>10.</TD><TD>Cedric Benson, Cin.</TD><TD>at Pit.</TD></TR><TR><TD>11.</TD><TD>Steven Jackson, St.L.</TD><TD>vs. N.O.</TD></TR><TR><TD>12.</TD><TD>Thomas Jones, N.Y.-J</TD><TD>vs. Jac.</TD></TR><TR><TD>13.</TD><TD>Pierre Thomas, N.O.</TD><TD>at St.L.</TD></TR><TR><TD>14.</TD><TD>Marshawn Lynch, Buf</TD><TD>at Ten.</TD></TR><TR><TD>15.</TD><TD>*Brian Westbrook, Phi.</TD><TD>at S.D.</TD></TR><TR><TD>16.</TD><TD>Ryan Grant, G.B.</TD><TD>vs. Dal.</TD></TR><TR><TD>17.</TD><TD>Tim Hightower, Ari.</TD><TD>vs. Sea.</TD></TR><TR><TD>18.</TD><TD>Marion Barber, Dal.</TD><TD>at G.B.</TD></TR><TR><TD>19.</TD><TD>Joseph Addai, Ind.</TD><TD>vs. N.E.</TD></TR><TR><TD>20.</TD><TD>Ricky Williams, Mia.</TD><TD>vs. T.B.</TD></TR><TR><TD>21.</TD><TD>*Ladell Betts, Was.</TD><TD>vs. Den.</TD></TR><TR><TD>22.</TD><TD>LaDainian Tomlinson, S.D.</TD><TD>vs. Phi.</TD></TR><TR><TD>23.</TD><TD>Matt Forte, Chi.</TD><TD>at S.F.</TD></TR><TR><TD>24.</TD><TD>Mike Bell, N.O.</TD><TD>at St.L.</TD></TR><TR><TD>25.</TD><TD>Chris Wells, Ari.</TD><TD>vs. Sea.</TD></TR><TR><TD>26.</TD><TD>Knowshon Moreno, Den.</TD><TD>at Was.</TD></TR><TR><TD>27.</TD><TD>*Darren McFadden, Oak.</TD><TD>vs. K.C.</TD></TR><TR><TD>28.</TD><TD>Kevin Smith, Det.</TD><TD>at Min.</TD></TR><TR><TD>29.</TD><TD>Julius Jones, Sea.</TD><TD>at Ari.</TD></TR><TR><TD>30.</TD><TD>Laurence Maroney, N.E.</TD><TD>at Ind.</TD></TR><TR><TD>31.</TD><TD>Correll Buckhalter, Den.</TD><TD>at Was.</TD></TR><TR><TD>32.</TD><TD>Jonathan Stewart, Car.</TD><TD>vs. Atl.</TD></TR><TR><TD>33.</TD><TD>Jamaal Charles, K.C.</TD><TD>at Oak.</TD></TR><TR><TD>34.</TD><TD>Carnell Williams, T.B.</TD><TD>vs. G.B.</TD></TR><TR><TD>35.</TD><TD>*LeSean McCoy, Phi.</TD><TD>at S.D.</TD></TR><TR><TD>36.</TD><TD>Jamal Lewis, Cle.</TD><TD>vs. Bal.</TD></TR><TR><TD>37.</TD><TD>Reggie Bush, N.O.</TD><TD>at St.L.</TD></TR><TR><TD>38.</TD><TD>Felix Jones, Dal.</TD><TD>at G.B.</TD></TR><TR><TD>39.</TD><TD>Fred Jackson, Buf.</TD><TD>at Ten.</TD></TR><TR><TD>40.</TD><TD>LenDale White, Ten.</TD><TD>vs. Buf.</TD></TR><TR><TD>41.</TD><TD>Derrick Ward, T.B.</TD><TD>vs. G.B.</TD></TR><TR><TD>42.</TD><TD>Chester Taylor, Min.</TD><TD>vs. Det.</TD></TR><TR><TD>43.</TD><TD>Kolby Smith, K.C.</TD><TD>at Oak.</TD></TR><TR><TD>44.</TD><TD>*Donald Brown, Ind.</TD><TD>vs. N.E.</TD></TR><TR><TD>45.</TD><TD>Justin Fargas, Oak.</TD><TD>vs. K.C.</TD></TR><TR><TD>46.</TD><TD>Darren Sproles, S.D.</TD><TD>vs. Phi.</TD></TR><TR><TD>47.</TD><TD>Willie Parker, Pit.</TD><TD>vs. Cin.</TD></TR><TR><TD>48.</TD><TD>Maurice Morris, Det.</TD><TD>at Min.</TD></TR><TR><TD>49.</TD><TD>Kevin Faulk, N.E.</TD><TD>at Ind.</TD></TR><TR><TD>50.</TD><TD>Willis McGahee, Bal.</TD><TD>at Cle.</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>
Wide receivers
<TABLE border=1 cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width=420 align=center><TBODY><TR><TD>01.</TD><TD>Reggie Wayne, Ind.</TD><TD>vs. N.E.</TD></TR><TR><TD>02.</TD><TD>Randy Moss, N.E.</TD><TD>at Ind.</TD></TR><TR><TD>03.</TD><TD>Larry Fitzgerald, Ari.</TD><TD>vs. Sea.</TD></TR><TR><TD>04.</TD><TD>Marques Colston, N.O.</TD><TD>at St.L.</TD></TR><TR><TD>05.</TD><TD>Donald Driver, G.B.</TD><TD>vs. Dal.</TD></TR><TR><TD>06.</TD><TD>Roddy White, Atl.</TD><TD>at Car.</TD></TR><TR><TD>07.</TD><TD>DeSean Jackson, Phi.</TD><TD>at S.D.</TD></TR><TR><TD>08.</TD><TD>Hines Ward, Pit.</TD><TD>vs. Cin.</TD></TR><TR><TD>09.</TD><TD>Vincent Jackson, S.D.</TD><TD>vs. Phi.</TD></TR><TR><TD>10.</TD><TD>Wes Welker, N.E.</TD><TD>at Ind.</TD></TR><TR><TD>11.</TD><TD>Chad Ochocinco, Cin.</TD><TD>at Pit.</TD></TR><TR><TD>12.</TD><TD>Steve Smith, Car.</TD><TD>vs. Atl.</TD></TR><TR><TD>13.</TD><TD>Sidney Rice, Min.</TD><TD>vs. Det.</TD></TR><TR><TD>14.</TD><TD>Miles Austin, Dal.</TD><TD>at G.B.</TD></TR><TR><TD>15.</TD><TD>T.J. Houshmandzadeh, Sea.</TD><TD>at Ari.</TD></TR><TR><TD>16.</TD><TD>Greg Jennings, G.B.</TD><TD>vs. Dal.</TD></TR><TR><TD>17.</TD><TD>Brandon Marshall, Den.</TD><TD>at Was.</TD></TR><TR><TD>18.</TD><TD>Jerricho Cotchery, N.Y.-J</TD><TD>vs. Jac.</TD></TR><TR><TD>19.</TD><TD>Calvin Johnson, Det.</TD><TD>at Min.</TD></TR><TR><TD>20.</TD><TD>Dwayne Bowe, K.C.</TD><TD>at Oak.</TD></TR><TR><TD>21.</TD><TD>*Terrell Owens, Buf.</TD><TD>at Ten.</TD></TR><TR><TD>22.</TD><TD>Braylon Edwards, N.Y.-J</TD><TD>vs. Jac.</TD></TR><TR><TD>23.</TD><TD>Mike Sims-Walker, Jac.</TD><TD>at. N.Y.-J</TD></TR><TR><TD>24.</TD><TD>Nate Burleson, Sea.</TD><TD>at Ari.</TD></TR><TR><TD>25.</TD><TD>Bernard Berrian, Min.</TD><TD>vs. Det.</TD></TR><TR><TD>26.</TD><TD>Derrick Mason, Bal.</TD><TD>at Cle.</TD></TR><TR><TD>27.</TD><TD>*Austin Collie, Ind.</TD><TD>vs. N.E.</TD></TR><TR><TD>28.</TD><TD>Santonio Holmes, Pit.</TD><TD>vs. Cin.</TD></TR><TR><TD>29.</TD><TD>*Anquan Boldin, Ari.</TD><TD>vs. Sea.</TD></TR><TR><TD>30.</TD><TD>Michael Crabtree, S.F.</TD><TD>vs. Chi.</TD></TR><TR><TD>31.</TD><TD>Percy Harvin, Min.</TD><TD>vs. Det.</TD></TR><TR><TD>32.</TD><TD>Jeremy Maclin, Phi.</TD><TD>at S.D.</TD></TR><TR><TD>33.</TD><TD>Steve Breaston, Ari.</TD><TD>vs. Sea.</TD></TR><TR><TD>34.</TD><TD>Robert Meachem, N.O.</TD><TD>at St.L.</TD></TR><TR><TD>35.</TD><TD>Devin Hester, Chi.</TD><TD>at S.F.</TD></TR><TR><TD>36.</TD><TD>Lee Evans, Buf.</TD><TD>at Ten.</TD></TR><TR><TD>37.</TD><TD>Santana Moss, Was.</TD><TD>vs. Den.</TD></TR><TR><TD>38.</TD><TD>Chris Chambers, K.C.</TD><TD>at Oak.</TD></TR><TR><TD>39.</TD><TD>Torry Holt, Jac.</TD><TD>at. N.Y.-J</TD></TR><TR><TD>40.</TD><TD>Donnie Avery, St.L.</TD><TD>vs. N.O.</TD></TR><TR><TD>41.</TD><TD>Roy Williams, Dal.</TD><TD>at G.B.</TD></TR><TR><TD>42.</TD><TD>Johnny Knox, Chi.</TD><TD>at S.F.</TD></TR><TR><TD>43.</TD><TD>Malcom Floyd, S.D.</TD><TD>vs. Phi.</TD></TR><TR><TD>44.</TD><TD>*Antonio Bryant, T.B.</TD><TD>vs. G.B.</TD></TR><TR><TD>45.</TD><TD>Pierre Garcon, Ind.</TD><TD>vs. N.E.</TD></TR><TR><TD>46.</TD><TD>Nate Washington, Ten.</TD><TD>vs. Buf.</TD></TR><TR><TD>47.</TD><TD>Devery Henderson, N.O.</TD><TD>at St.L.</TD></TR><TR><TD>48.</TD><TD>Josh Morgan, S.F.</TD><TD>vs. Chi.</TD></TR><TR><TD>49.</TD><TD>Mike Wallace, Pit.</TD><TD>vs. Cin.</TD></TR><TR><TD>50.</TD><TD>Brian Hartline, Mia.</TD><TD>vs. T.B.</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>
Tight ends
<TABLE border=1 cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width=420 align=center><TBODY><TR><TD>01.</TD><TD>Dallas Clark, Ind.</TD><TD>vs. N.E.</TD></TR><TR><TD>02.</TD><TD>Antonio Gates, S.D.</TD><TD>vs. Phi.</TD></TR><TR><TD>03.</TD><TD>Vernon Davis, S.F.</TD><TD>vs. Chi.</TD></TR><TR><TD>04.</TD><TD>Tony Gonzalez, Atl.</TD><TD>at Car.</TD></TR><TR><TD>05.</TD><TD>Heath Miller, Pit.</TD><TD>vs. Cin.</TD></TR><TR><TD>06.</TD><TD>Brent Celek, Phi.</TD><TD>at S.D.</TD></TR><TR><TD>07.</TD><TD>Jason Witten, Dal.</TD><TD>at G.B.</TD></TR><TR><TD>08.</TD><TD>Jeremy Shockey, N.O.</TD><TD>at St.L.</TD></TR><TR><TD>09.</TD><TD>Visanthe Shiancoe, Min.</TD><TD>vs. Det.</TD></TR><TR><TD>10.</TD><TD>Kellen Winslow, T.B.</TD><TD>vs. G.B.</TD></TR><TR><TD>11.</TD><TD>Greg Olsen, Chi.</TD><TD>at S.F.</TD></TR><TR><TD>12.</TD><TD>John Carlson, Sea.</TD><TD>at Ari.</TD></TR><TR><TD>13.</TD><TD>Zach Miller, Oak.</TD><TD>vs. K.C.</TD></TR><TR><TD>14.</TD><TD>Tony Scheffler, Den.</TD><TD>at Was.</TD></TR><TR><TD>15.</TD><TD>Fred Davis, Was.</TD><TD>vs. Den.</TD></TR><TR><TD>16.</TD><TD>Dustin Keller, N.Y.-J</TD><TD>vs. Jac.</TD></TR><TR><TD>17.</TD><TD>Todd Heap, Bal.</TD><TD>at Cle.</TD></TR><TR><TD>18.</TD><TD>Brandon Pettigrew, Det.</TD><TD>at Min.</TD></TR><TR><TD>19.</TD><TD>Ben Watson, N.E.</TD><TD>at Ind.</TD></TR><TR><TD>20.</TD><TD>Marcedes Lewis, Jac.</TD><TD>at. N.Y.-J</TD></TR><TR><TD>21.</TD><TD>Spencer Havner, G.B.</TD><TD>vs. Dal.</TD></TR><TR><TD>22.</TD><TD>Bo Scaife, Ten.</TD><TD>vs. Buf.</TD></TR><TR><TD>23.</TD><TD>*Jermichael Finley, G.B.</TD><TD>vs. Dal.</TD></TR><TR><TD>24.</TD><TD>Anthony Fasano, Mia.</TD><TD>vs. T.B.</TD></TR><TR><TD>25.</TD><TD>Steve Heiden, Cle.</TD><TD>vs. Bal.</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>
Kickers
<TABLE border=1 cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width=420 align=center><TBODY><TR><TD>01.</TD><TD>Stephen Gostkowski, N.E.</TD><TD>at Ind.</TD></TR><TR><TD>02.</TD><TD>Ryan Longwell, Min.</TD><TD>vs. Det.</TD></TR><TR><TD>03.</TD><TD>David Akers, Phi.</TD><TD>at S.D.</TD></TR><TR><TD>04.</TD><TD>John Carney, N.O.</TD><TD>at St.L.</TD></TR><TR><TD>05.</TD><TD>Mason Crosby, G.B.</TD><TD>vs. Dal.</TD></TR><TR><TD>06.</TD><TD>Nate Kaeding, S.D.</TD><TD>vs. Phi.</TD></TR><TR><TD>07.</TD><TD>Jeff Reed, Pit.</TD><TD>vs. Cin.</TD></TR><TR><TD>08.</TD><TD>Nick Folk, Dal.</TD><TD>at G.B.</TD></TR><TR><TD>09.</TD><TD>Jay Feely, N.Y.-J</TD><TD>vs. Jac.</TD></TR><TR><TD>10.</TD><TD>Joe Nedney, S.F.</TD><TD>vs. Chi.</TD></TR><TR><TD>11.</TD><TD>Matt Prater, Den.</TD><TD>at Was.</TD></TR><TR><TD>12.</TD><TD>Dan Carpenter, Mia.</TD><TD>vs. T.B.</TD></TR><TR><TD>13.</TD><TD>Matt Stover, Ind.</TD><TD>vs. N.E.</TD></TR><TR><TD>14.</TD><TD>Steven Hauschka, Bal.</TD><TD>at Cle.</TD></TR><TR><TD>15.</TD><TD>Neil Rackers, Ari.</TD><TD>vs. Sea.</TD></TR><TR><TD>16.</TD><TD>Robbie Gould, Chi.</TD><TD>at S.F.</TD></TR><TR><TD>17.</TD><TD>Rian Lindell, Buf.</TD><TD>at Ten.</TD></TR><TR><TD>18.</TD><TD>Olindo Mare, Sea.</TD><TD>at Ari.</TD></TR><TR><TD>19.</TD><TD>Shayne Graham, Cin.</TD><TD>at Pit.</TD></TR><TR><TD>20.</TD><TD>Rob Bironas, Ten.</TD><TD>vs. Buf.</TD></TR><TR><TD>21.</TD><TD>Jason Elam, Atl.</TD><TD>at Car.</TD></TR><TR><TD>22.</TD><TD>Ryan Succop, K.C.</TD><TD>at Oak.</TD></TR><TR><TD>23.</TD><TD>Josh Scobee, Jac.</TD><TD>at. N.Y.-J</TD></TR><TR><TD>24.</TD><TD>John Kasay, Car.</TD><TD>vs. Atl.</TD></TR><TR><TD>25.</TD><TD>Shaun Suisham, Was.</TD><TD>vs. Den.</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>
Defenses
<TABLE border=1 cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width=420 align=center><TBODY><TR><TD>01.</TD><TD>Minnesota</TD><TD>vs. Det.</TD></TR><TR><TD>02.</TD><TD>Baltimore</TD><TD>at Cle.</TD></TR><TR><TD>03.</TD><TD>New Orleans</TD><TD>at St.L.</TD></TR><TR><TD>04.</TD><TD>Pittsburgh</TD><TD>vs. Cin.</TD></TR><TR><TD>05.</TD><TD>New York Jets</TD><TD>vs. Jac.</TD></TR><TR><TD>06.</TD><TD>Denver</TD><TD>at Was.</TD></TR><TR><TD>07.</TD><TD>Arizona</TD><TD>vs. Sea.</TD></TR><TR><TD>08.</TD><TD>Dallas</TD><TD>at. Phi.</TD></TR><TR><TD>09.</TD><TD>Atlanta</TD><TD>at Car.</TD></TR><TR><TD>10.</TD><TD>Philadelphia</TD><TD>at S.D.</TD></TR><TR><TD>11.</TD><TD>Miami</TD><TD>at Mia.</TD></TR><TR><TD>12.</TD><TD>San Francisco</TD><TD>vs. Chi.</TD></TR><TR><TD>13.</TD><TD>San Diego</TD><TD>vs. Phi.</TD></TR><TR><TD>14.</TD><TD>Green Bay</TD><TD>vs. Dal.</TD></TR><TR><TD>15.</TD><TD>Washington</TD><TD>vs. Den.</TD></TR><TR><TD>16.</TD><TD>New England</TD><TD>at Ind.</TD></TR><TR><TD>17.</TD><TD>Chicago</TD><TD>vs. Ari</TD></TR><TR><TD>18.</TD><TD>Cincinnati</TD><TD>at Pit.</TD></TR><TR><TD>19.</TD><TD>Oakland</TD><TD>vs. K.C.</TD></TR><TR><TD>20.</TD><TD>Indianapolis</TD><TD>vs. N.E.</TD></TR><TR><TD>21.</TD><TD>Jacksonville</TD><TD>at. N.Y.-J</TD></TR><TR><TD>22.</TD><TD>Seattle</TD><TD>at Ari.</TD></TR><TR><TD>23.</TD><TD>Kansas City</TD><TD>at Oak.</TD></TR><TR><TD>24.</TD><TD>Tennessee</TD><TD>vs. Buf.</TD></TR><TR><TD>25.</TD><TD>Buffalo</TD><TD>at Ten.</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

HacheMan · Nov 13, 2009

Family Feud

The first two-headed RB attack that I remember -- granted I'm only 20 -- was Ron Dayne along with Tiki Barber, whose forces combined to create the legendary "Thunder and Lightning" in 2000. At the time the committee backfield was born out of necessity, not creative genius. Tiki was an unknown but intriguing commodity with just 114 carries in his previous two 32 games.

Dayne was just coming off a storied college career, but at 5-10 and upwards of 250 pounds many questioned whether he would be quick enough to be an effective NFL RB. Although this tandem proved good enough to get to a Super Bowl, together they were never quite able to live up to their billing as the two coolest parts of a rainy day.

This season, the majority of teams rely on multiple backs to get the job done. While most of them don't have sweet nicknames like "Thunder and Lightning", these players still have to constantly fight for their role in the offense. Sometimes, like with Tiki and The Great Dayne, one guy will outclass the other and render him irrelevant. But in many cases, it's not that simple. These more confusing situations can make life tough on fantasy owners, but I'll try to clear a few things up. Let's take a look at the most relevant RB battles as we close in on the home stretch of the Fantasy Football season.

If you're looking to see if your 2009 tale of Fantasy disappointment made the cut, I have the winners at the end of page 2.

Tim Hightower vs. Chris Wells, Cardinals RBs

All things being equal, "Beanie" Wells is a far more impressive runner than Hightower. Whether you're old school and choose to trust your eyes, or if you'd rather look to stats (4.4 YPC to Timmy's 3.6), Wells is clearly the better choice for the Cardinals. Unfortunately for Beanie, he struggles at the not so obvious on-TV RB duties: pass blocking and pass catching.

Consequently, Coach Ken Whisenhunt is forced to remove Wells in crucial situations, which explains his paltry 20% Goal Line carry rate and that single, lonely touchdown he's scored.

Hightower lacks the raw ability of Wells, but excels at those veteran subtleties of the game that Beanie has yet to master. As a result, Hightower has been the clear choice at the Goal Line, getting 80% of Arizona's carries inside the 5-yard line and producing 5 touchdowns, which have made him a top 20 RB on the season.

The reason I chose to lead with a less than scintillating pair of players is the great schedule the Cardinals face from this point on. Over the next the 7 games, Arizona faces the Seahawks, Titans, Detroit, and the Rams twice (Detroit and St. Louis in the all-important weeks 15 and 16). While I see both guys having value in this last part of the season, the Cardinals' affinity for Hightower at the Goal Line makes him the more valuable player, and a viable, but low-end RB2 from here on out, while Wells is a decent RB2 option against Detroit and St. Louis, but just a fringe flex play in the other games.

Ryan Moats vs. Steve Slaton vs. Chris Brown, Texans RBs

I try not to brag when I get things right -- mainly to avoid additional emails pointing out all the stuff I got wrong (which I will now get) -- but there comes a time when gloating is unavoidable. Yes, I told you to bail on Slaton right when his value was at its highest, and I was right. His value has completely crashed. Okay, just had to get that over with. Now onto the Texans RBs.

After a sobering Week 9 performance (8 fantasy points), we all can concede what we already knew about Ryan Moats: that game against the Bills was a ridiculous aberration. And while that mind-bending, 32-point showing wasn't for real, Gary Kubiak's preference for giving the ball to Moats in scoring situations looks to be sticking around.

Over the past two games, Moats has gotten 9 of the 14 Houston carries in the Red Zone, and more importantly, all but one of the 6 Texans carries on the Goal Line. While the only one he didn't get was Slaton from the 1-yard line to score, Moats got a shot from the 1-yard line just 2 plays on 1st down (Slaton scored on 3rd down).
From this point on, Ryan Moats in the RB to own in the Texans backfield, but will face competition from Slaton and Brown.

As a result, Moats looks like a fringe RB2 option when facing bad run defenses. Just to save you from having to look up schedules: Week 11 vs. Titans, Week 12 vs. Colts, Week 13 vs. Jaguars, and Week 15 vs. Rams.

Jamaal Charles vs. Kolby Smith, Chiefs RBs

Oddly, everything I've read concerning the Chiefs RBs has seemed to focus on Charles as the clear cut #1 option for Matt Cassel to hand the ball off to. Smith has to be sympathizing like Rodney Dangerfield: "I gets no respect." Of the two, Smith is the only one to have ever carried a full load as an NFL RB. Charles has carried the ball more than 7 times in a game ONCE in his pro career, while Smith has had 8 games with double digit carries, including a 31-carry, 150-yard performance in 2007.

I know it may seem ridiculous picking out these numbers, but let's face it: choosing between these two RBs is like picking out the skinniest kid at fat camp.
As far as Red Zone stats go, we only have this past week to look at, which is far too small of a sample size to analyze. But, for whatever it may be worth, Smith had both of the Chiefs carries in the RZ, and the only one on the GL.

Although this in and of itself is meaningless, logic would dictate that Smith, the larger back (5-11 218 to Charles' 5-11 199), would be the better choice for grinding out tough yards in crucial situations. This wouldn't be all that important if the Chiefs didn't have some awesome matchups in the next six games, but they do. Kansas City plays Oakland (Week 10), San Diego (12), Buffalo (14), and Cleveland (15) before the season ends, giving their RBs a great chance to succeed.

Jamaal Charles is owned in 37% of standard leagues, while Kolby Smith is owned in just 2%. I'm not sure which guy WILL get the carries, but Smith has a chance, and is more than likely a free agent in your league. Depending on how things play out, Smith could end up being a low end RB2 once the Chiefs get around to playing Buffalo and Cleveland in the Fantasy Playoffs. Smith is the ultimate low risk -- really NO risk -- high reward player. Go get him.

DeAngelo Williams vs. Jonathan Stewart, Panthers RBs

Excluding Weeks 6 and 8, when Stewart had 15 and 20 points, he has averaged fewer than 5 Fantasy points each game. For a guy owned in 91% of leagues, that's far too inconsistent and makes him impossible to trust. Clearly, if Stewart ever gets a chance to be a #1 RB, he could be a star. But right now, his perceived value is so much higher than his actual value, and I would try to trade him and get whatever you can, because there's no way you can rely on him as a starter. DeAngelo is a RB1 option each week, but will occasionally suffer from some Stewart vulturing.

Brandon Jacobs vs. Ahmad Bradshaw, Giants RBs

Brandon, me and you are done. Jacobs is looking more and more like Ron Dayne, a huge RB whose size is actually a detriment to him in short-yardage situations because he can't get a head of steam fast enough. The Giants are now consistently mixing in Bradshaw when they need a handful of yards, and they should: Bradshaw is the more effective runner. If it weren't for his blocking issues and Tom Coughlin's loyalty, Bradshaw may have ripped the job from Jacobs' hands.

I think Jacobs is a good candidate to trade because his perceived value is higher than his actual value. Unlike Jonathan Stewart, I wouldn't look to trade him vigorously because he will still have value as a low-end RB2, but if you find an owner who still thinks he's more than that pull the trigger on the deal.



2009 Tales of Fantasy Disappointment

Thanks for all the emails; I didn't expect so many. And don't be mad if yours didn't make it because they were all beautiful (isn't that what they tell kids these days?)
Without further ado, here is the winner:

From Nick Garcia:

Draft Larry Johnson, I did, I did!
He took the ball and ran and hid

Behind his lineman, he always fell down
And in came Jill and he broke her crown
He pushed and slapped and yelled and spit
And in the end she looked like Owen Schmitt

He eventually decided he run real hard
But all he chased were girls in the bars
In his demented fantasies we all shared
But our fantasy has become a nightmare

Honorable Mentions:

From Andres

You, Calvin Johnson. I saved the biggest disappointment for last! We knew the negatives going into the year. You had a Rookie QB, and a bad team. But for God's sake, you produced top WR #'s with Culpepper QBing, and didn't miss games! After game one, you looked completely worth your draft slot, even after the officials robbed you of a TD. Now, you can't get on the field. You have this ultra-elite talent, and it just seems to be wasting away on a lost year. Get healthy, and remember, Megatron is supposed to transform into an amazingly bad-ass gun that could kill God if pointed to the sky. Go be that gun.

From Adi Heller:

I'm sure you've gotten a couple complaints about Eddie Royal, but mine is special. I drafted Eddie, I thought somewhat reasonably, as a 3rd WR in a league that starts 3 WRs. Obviously, all season he sucked. Lots. And as a Patriots fan with faith in Josh McDaniels' system, I kept starting him and gutting it out through Eddie's suckitude. In week 5, I was finally broken, and benched him - he gained 90 yards receiving against my beloved Pats, so I was convinced he was back. I started him week 6. My opponent (my league rival, and a rematch of last year's championship) was starting the Broncos DST. Eddie, of course, went on to catch 0 passes, and returned two kicks for TDs, giving 12 points to my opponent.

I got a lot of problems with you, Eddie! And now, you're gonna hear about it. You, Royal. Your fantasy performance STINKS!

From: Sean Pickwick

Sadly my contribution is going to be neither surprising nor original, but that will not quell my loathing of Larry Johnson. I too was sucked into the preseason hype - "He's totally involved in the team aspect", "He looks so fast, like 2005 all over again!", "His workout regiment is off the charts" - only to watch LJ pitter-patter his way into the backs of his lineman, then tweet his way out of a uniform. Thankfully I play in a 2 keeper, 14 team league so the pick wasn't necessarily devastating, but when Drew Brees is leading your team in rushing TD's after week 7, it tends to shine a bright, glaring spotlight on that pick, one that I defended at my draft against the snickers and dropped jaws of friends and team owners. Never again, LJ, never again.

Updated Red Zone Statistics for RBs, WRs, and TEs

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<TBODY><TR class=tableizer-firstrow><TH>Player</TH><TH>Team</TH><TH>RZ Car</TH><TH>Team RZ</TH><TH>RZ%</TH><TH>GL Car</TH><TH>Team GL</TH><TH>GL %</TH><TH>TD</TH><TH>RZ tar</TH><TH>RZ Chances</TH></TR><TR><TD>Cedric Benson</TD><TD>Cincinnati Bengals</TD><TD>28</TD><TD>30</TD><TD>93.3%</TD><TD>6</TD><TD>6</TD><TD>100.0%</TD><TD>4</TD><TD>2</TD><TD>30</TD></TR><TR><TD>Maurice Jones-Drew</TD><TD>Jacksonville Jaguars</TD><TD>34</TD><TD>37</TD><TD>91.9%</TD><TD>10</TD><TD>10</TD><TD>100.0%</TD><TD>7</TD><TD>5</TD><TD>39</TD></TR><TR><TD>Steven Jackson</TD><TD>St. Louis Rams</TD><TD>14</TD><TD>16</TD><TD>87.5%</TD><TD>3</TD><TD>3</TD><TD>100.0%</TD><TD>0</TD><TD>2</TD><TD>16</TD></TR><TR><TD>Matt Forte</TD><TD>Chicago Bears</TD><TD>33</TD><TD>40</TD><TD>82.5%</TD><TD>7</TD><TD>8</TD><TD>87.5%</TD><TD>2</TD><TD>3</TD><TD>36</TD></TR><TR><TD>Michael Turner</TD><TD>Atlanta Falcons </TD><TD>23</TD><TD>28</TD><TD>82.1%</TD><TD>10</TD><TD>10</TD><TD>100.0%</TD><TD>7</TD><TD>1</TD><TD>24</TD></TR><TR><TD>Ladanian Tomlinson</TD><TD>San Diego Chargers</TD><TD>24</TD><TD>30</TD><TD>80.0%</TD><TD>16</TD><TD>19</TD><TD>84.2%</TD><TD>5</TD><TD>1</TD><TD>25</TD></TR><TR><TD>Ryan Grant</TD><TD>Green Bay Packers</TD><TD>21</TD><TD>27</TD><TD>77.8%</TD><TD>10</TD><TD>13</TD><TD>76.9%</TD><TD>4</TD><TD>4</TD><TD>25</TD></TR><TR><TD>Marshawn Lynch</TD><TD>Buffalo Bills</TD><TD>15</TD><TD>20</TD><TD>75.0%</TD><TD>4</TD><TD>6</TD><TD>66.7%</TD><TD>1</TD><TD>3</TD><TD>18</TD></TR><TR><TD>Kevin Smith</TD><TD>Detroit Lions</TD><TD>17</TD><TD>23</TD><TD>73.9%</TD><TD>6</TD><TD>12</TD><TD>50.0%</TD><TD>3</TD><TD>2</TD><TD>19</TD></TR><TR><TD>Frank Gore</TD><TD>San Francisco 49ers</TD><TD>8</TD><TD>11</TD><TD>72.7%</TD><TD>2</TD><TD>2</TD><TD>100.0%</TD><TD>2</TD><TD>6</TD><TD>14</TD></TR><TR><TD>Marion Barber</TD><TD>Dallas Cowboys</TD><TD>15</TD><TD>21</TD><TD>71.4%</TD><TD>10</TD><TD>12</TD><TD>83.3%</TD><TD>4</TD><TD>1</TD><TD>16</TD></TR><TR><TD>Adrian Peterson</TD><TD>Minnesota Vikings</TD><TD>33</TD><TD>48</TD><TD>68.8%</TD><TD>17</TD><TD>21</TD><TD>81.0%</TD><TD>7</TD><TD>2</TD><TD>35</TD></TR><TR><TD>Joseph Addai</TD><TD>Indiannapolis Colts</TD><TD>27</TD><TD>41</TD><TD>65.9%</TD><TD>6</TD><TD>12</TD><TD>50.0%</TD><TD>5</TD><TD>4</TD><TD>31</TD></TR><TR><TD>Clinton Portis</TD><TD>Washington Redskins</TD><TD>17</TD><TD>26</TD><TD>65.4%</TD><TD>4</TD><TD>8</TD><TD>50.0%</TD><TD>1</TD><TD>4</TD><TD>21</TD></TR><TR><TD>Ronnie Brown</TD><TD>Miami Dolphins</TD><TD>37</TD><TD>57</TD><TD>64.9%</TD><TD>14</TD><TD>20</TD><TD>70.0%</TD><TD>6</TD><TD>1</TD><TD>38</TD></TR><TR><TD>LeSean McCoy</TD><TD>Philadelphia Eagles</TD><TD>9</TD><TD>14</TD><TD>64.3%</TD><TD>3</TD><TD>5</TD><TD>60.0%</TD><TD>1</TD><TD>1</TD><TD>10</TD></TR><TR><TD>Jamal Lewis</TD><TD>Cleveland Browns</TD><TD>16</TD><TD>25</TD><TD>64.0%</TD><TD>7</TD><TD>9</TD><TD>77.8%</TD><TD>0</TD><TD>0</TD><TD>16</TD></TR><TR><TD>Brandon Jacobs</TD><TD>New York Giants</TD><TD>33</TD><TD>53</TD><TD>62.3%</TD><TD>8</TD><TD>11</TD><TD>72.7%</TD><TD>2</TD><TD>4</TD><TD>37</TD></TR><TR><TD>Julius Jones</TD><TD>Seattle Seahawks</TD><TD>8</TD><TD>13</TD><TD>61.5%</TD><TD>3</TD><TD>3</TD><TD>100.0%</TD><TD>1</TD><TD>1</TD><TD>9</TD></TR><TR><TD>Knowshon Moreno</TD><TD>Denver Broncos</TD><TD>19</TD><TD>31</TD><TD>61.3%</TD><TD>3</TD><TD>7</TD><TD>42.9%</TD><TD>1</TD><TD>2</TD><TD>21</TD></TR><TR><TD>Thomas Jones</TD><TD>New York Jets</TD><TD>23</TD><TD>38</TD><TD>60.5%</TD><TD>7</TD><TD>8</TD><TD>87.5%</TD><TD>6</TD><TD>0</TD><TD>23</TD></TR><TR><TD>Rashard Mendenhall</TD><TD>Pittsburgh Steelers</TD><TD>12</TD><TD>21</TD><TD>57.1%</TD><TD>5</TD><TD>7</TD><TD>71.4%</TD><TD>4</TD><TD>0</TD><TD>12</TD></TR><TR><TD>Jonathan Stewart</TD><TD>Carolina Panthers</TD><TD>24</TD><TD>47</TD><TD>51.1%</TD><TD>7</TD><TD>17</TD><TD>41.2%</TD><TD>3</TD><TD>1</TD><TD>25</TD></TR><TR><TD>Darren McFadden</TD><TD>Oakland Raiders</TD><TD>4</TD><TD>8</TD><TD>50.0%</TD><TD>1</TD><TD>2</TD><TD>50.0%</TD><TD>1</TD><TD>1</TD><TD>5</TD></TR><TR><TD>Cadillac Williams</TD><TD>Tampa Bay Buccaneers</TD><TD>6</TD><TD>12</TD><TD>50.0%</TD><TD>3</TD><TD>6</TD><TD>50.0%</TD><TD>2</TD><TD>3</TD><TD>9</TD></TR><TR><TD>Lendale White</TD><TD>Tennesee Titans</TD><TD>11</TD><TD>22</TD><TD>50.0%</TD><TD>3</TD><TD>7</TD><TD>42.9%</TD><TD>1</TD><TD>0</TD><TD>11</TD></TR><TR><TD>Tim Hightower</TD><TD>Arizona Cardinals</TD><TD>14</TD><TD>29</TD><TD>48.3%</TD><TD>8</TD><TD>10</TD><TD>80.0%</TD><TD>5</TD><TD>2</TD><TD>16</TD></TR><TR><TD>Beanie Wells</TD><TD>Arizona Cardinals</TD><TD>14</TD><TD>29</TD><TD>48.3%</TD><TD>2</TD><TD>10</TD><TD>20.0%</TD><TD>1</TD><TD>0</TD><TD>14</TD></TR><TR><TD>Ray Rice</TD><TD>Baltimore Ravens</TD><TD>17</TD><TD>36</TD><TD>47.2%</TD><TD>3</TD><TD>8</TD><TD>37.5%</TD><TD>1</TD><TD>6</TD><TD>23</TD></TR><TR><TD>Chris Johnson</TD><TD>Tennesee Titans</TD><TD>10</TD><TD>22</TD><TD>45.5%</TD><TD>4</TD><TD>7</TD><TD>57.1%</TD><TD>2</TD><TD>2</TD><TD>12</TD></TR><TR><TD>DeAngelo Williams</TD><TD>Carolina Panthers</TD><TD>21</TD><TD>47</TD><TD>44.7%</TD><TD>9</TD><TD>17</TD><TD>52.9%</TD><TD>4</TD><TD>11</TD><TD>32</TD></TR><TR><TD>Justin Fargas</TD><TD>Oakland Raiders</TD><TD>8</TD><TD>19</TD><TD>42.1%</TD><TD>2</TD><TD>7</TD><TD>28.6%</TD><TD>1</TD><TD>1</TD><TD>9</TD></TR><TR><TD>Willis McGahee</TD><TD>Baltimore Ravens</TD><TD>15</TD><TD>36</TD><TD>41.7%</TD><TD>4</TD><TD>8</TD><TD>50.0%</TD><TD>5</TD><TD>2</TD><TD>17</TD></TR><TR><TD>Derrick Ward</TD><TD>Tampa Bay Buccaneers</TD><TD>5</TD><TD>12</TD><TD>41.7%</TD><TD>3</TD><TD>6</TD><TD>50.0%</TD><TD>1</TD><TD>1</TD><TD>6</TD></TR><TR><TD>Brian Westbrook</TD><TD>Philadelphia Eagles</TD><TD>5</TD><TD>12</TD><TD>41.7%</TD><TD>2</TD><TD>5</TD><TD>40.0%</TD><TD>1</TD><TD>2</TD><TD>7</TD></TR><TR><TD>Fred Jackson</TD><TD>Buffalo Bills</TD><TD>11</TD><TD>28</TD><TD>39.3%</TD><TD>3</TD><TD>7</TD><TD>42.9%</TD><TD>0</TD><TD>2</TD><TD>13</TD></TR><TR><TD>Justin Forsett</TD><TD>Seattle Seahawks</TD><TD>5</TD><TD>13</TD><TD>38.5%</TD><TD>0</TD><TD>3</TD><TD>0.0%</TD><TD>0</TD><TD>3</TD><TD>8</TD></TR><TR><TD>Steve Slaton</TD><TD>Houston Texans</TD><TD>18</TD><TD>47</TD><TD>38.3%</TD><TD>3</TD><TD>13</TD><TD>23.1%</TD><TD>2</TD><TD>4</TD><TD>22</TD></TR><TR><TD>Laurence Maroney</TD><TD>New England Patriots</TD><TD>14</TD><TD>37</TD><TD>37.8%</TD><TD>3</TD><TD>6</TD><TD>50.0%</TD><TD>2</TD><TD>0</TD><TD>14</TD></TR><TR><TD>Amhad Bradshaw</TD><TD>New York Giants</TD><TD>19</TD><TD>53</TD><TD>35.8%</TD><TD>3</TD><TD>11</TD><TD>27.3%</TD><TD>4</TD><TD>0</TD><TD>19</TD></TR><TR><TD>Glen Coffee</TD><TD>San Francisco 49ers</TD><TD>5</TD><TD>14</TD><TD>35.7%</TD><TD>2</TD><TD>4</TD><TD>50.0%</TD><TD>1</TD><TD>1</TD><TD>6</TD></TR><TR><TD>Donald Brown</TD><TD>Indiannapolis Colts</TD><TD>14</TD><TD>41</TD><TD>34.1%</TD><TD>6</TD><TD>12</TD><TD>50.0%</TD><TD>2</TD><TD>0</TD><TD>14</TD></TR><TR><TD>Chris Brown</TD><TD>Houston Texans</TD><TD>16</TD><TD>47</TD><TD>34.0%</TD><TD>5</TD><TD>13</TD><TD>38.5%</TD><TD>1</TD><TD>2</TD><TD>18</TD></TR><TR><TD>Pierre Thomas</TD><TD>New Orleans Saints</TD><TD>17</TD><TD>52</TD><TD>32.7%</TD><TD>8</TD><TD>19</TD><TD>42.1%</TD><TD>3</TD><TD>1</TD><TD>18</TD></TR><TR><TD>Michael Bush</TD><TD>Oakland Raiders</TD><TD>6</TD><TD>19</TD><TD>31.6%</TD><TD>4</TD><TD>7</TD><TD>57.1%</TD><TD>2</TD><TD>0</TD><TD>6</TD></TR><TR><TD>Mike Bell</TD><TD>New Orleans Saints</TD><TD>16</TD><TD>52</TD><TD>30.8%</TD><TD>5</TD><TD>19</TD><TD>26.3%</TD><TD>2</TD><TD>0</TD><TD>16</TD></TR><TR><TD>Darren Sproles</TD><TD>San Diego Chargers</TD><TD>13</TD><TD>44</TD><TD>29.5%</TD><TD>4</TD><TD>21</TD><TD>19.0%</TD><TD>1</TD><TD>8</TD><TD>21</TD></TR><TR><TD>Jerome Harrison</TD><TD>Cleveland Browns</TD><TD>7</TD><TD>25</TD><TD>28.0%</TD><TD>0</TD><TD>9</TD><TD>0.0%</TD><TD> </TD><TD>0</TD><TD>7</TD></TR><TR><TD>Reggie Bush</TD><TD>New Orleans Saints</TD><TD>14</TD><TD>52</TD><TD>26.9%</TD><TD>2</TD><TD>19</TD><TD>10.5%</TD><TD>3</TD><TD>10</TD><TD>24</TD></TR><TR><TD>Ricky Williams</TD><TD>Miami Dolphins</TD><TD>15</TD><TD>57</TD><TD>26.3%</TD><TD>5</TD><TD>20</TD><TD>25.0%</TD><TD>5</TD><TD>3</TD><TD>18</TD></TR><TR><TD>Correll Buckhalter</TD><TD>Denver Broncos</TD><TD>7</TD><TD>31</TD><TD>22.6%</TD><TD>1</TD><TD>7</TD><TD>14.3%</TD><TD>0</TD><TD>1</TD><TD>8</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

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<TBODY><TR class=tableizer-firstrow><TH>Player</TH><TH>Team </TH><TH>RZ Targets</TH><TH>Team RZ</TH><TH>RZ%</TH><TH>TD</TH></TR><TR><TD>Marques Colston</TD><TD>New Orleans Saints</TD><TD>17</TD><TD>55</TD><TD>30.9%</TD><TD>6</TD></TR><TR><TD>Larry Fitzgerald</TD><TD>Arizona Cardinals</TD><TD>15</TD><TD>43</TD><TD>34.9%</TD><TD>5</TD></TR><TR><TD>Greg Olsen</TD><TD>Chicago Bears</TD><TD>15</TD><TD>45</TD><TD>33.3%</TD><TD>3</TD></TR><TR><TD>Steve Smith</TD><TD>New York Giants</TD><TD>14</TD><TD>39</TD><TD>35.9%</TD><TD>5</TD></TR><TR><TD>Andre Johnson</TD><TD>Houston Texans</TD><TD>12</TD><TD>45</TD><TD>26.7%</TD><TD>3</TD></TR><TR><TD>Reggie Wayne</TD><TD>Indianapolis Colts</TD><TD>12</TD><TD>42</TD><TD>28.6%</TD><TD>6</TD></TR><TR><TD>Dwayne Bowe</TD><TD>Kansas City Chiefs</TD><TD>12</TD><TD>43</TD><TD>27.9%</TD><TD>3</TD></TR><TR><TD>Randy Moss</TD><TD>New England Patriots</TD><TD>12</TD><TD>51</TD><TD>23.5%</TD><TD>2</TD></TR><TR><TD>Chad Ochocinco</TD><TD>Cincinnati Bengals</TD><TD>11</TD><TD>39</TD><TD>28.2%</TD><TD>5</TD></TR><TR><TD>Brent Celek</TD><TD>Philadelphia Eagles</TD><TD>11</TD><TD>32</TD><TD>34.4%</TD><TD>3</TD></TR><TR><TD>Vernon Davis</TD><TD>San Francisco 49ers</TD><TD>11</TD><TD>30</TD><TD>36.7%</TD><TD>6</TD></TR><TR><TD>TJ Houshmandzadeh</TD><TD>Seattle Seahawks</TD><TD>11</TD><TD>43</TD><TD>25.6%</TD><TD>2</TD></TR><TR><TD>Nate Washington</TD><TD>Tennesee Titans</TD><TD>11</TD><TD>22</TD><TD>50.0%</TD><TD>3</TD></TR><TR><TD>Austin Collie</TD><TD>Indianapolis Colts</TD><TD>10</TD><TD>42</TD><TD>23.8%</TD><TD>3</TD></TR><TR><TD>Sidney Rice</TD><TD>Minnesota Vikings</TD><TD>10</TD><TD>42</TD><TD>23.8%</TD><TD>1</TD></TR><TR><TD>Tony Gonzalez</TD><TD>Atlanta Falcons</TD><TD>9</TD><TD>31</TD><TD>29.0%</TD><TD>2</TD></TR><TR><TD>Jhonny Knox</TD><TD>Chicago Bears</TD><TD>9</TD><TD>45</TD><TD>20.0%</TD><TD>2</TD></TR><TR><TD>Laveranues Coles</TD><TD>Cincinnati Bengals</TD><TD>9</TD><TD>39</TD><TD>23.1%</TD><TD>2</TD></TR><TR><TD>Roy Williams</TD><TD>Dallas Cowboys</TD><TD>9</TD><TD>38</TD><TD>23.7%</TD><TD>2</TD></TR><TR><TD>Mike Sims-Walker</TD><TD>Jacksonville Jaguars</TD><TD>9</TD><TD>24</TD><TD>37.5%</TD><TD>4</TD></TR><TR><TD>Bernard Berrian</TD><TD>Minnesota Vikings</TD><TD>9</TD><TD>42</TD><TD>21.4%</TD><TD>2</TD></TR><TR><TD>Visante Schiancoe</TD><TD>Minnesota Vikings</TD><TD>9</TD><TD>42</TD><TD>21.4%</TD><TD>6</TD></TR><TR><TD>Wes Welker</TD><TD>New England Patriots</TD><TD>9</TD><TD>51</TD><TD>17.6%</TD><TD>2</TD></TR><TR><TD>Heath Miller</TD><TD>Pittsburgh Steelers</TD><TD>9</TD><TD>29</TD><TD>31.0%</TD><TD>4</TD></TR><TR><TD>Vincent Jackson</TD><TD>San Diego Chargers</TD><TD>9</TD><TD>36</TD><TD>25.0%</TD><TD>4</TD></TR><TR><TD>Nate Burleson</TD><TD>Seattle Seahawks</TD><TD>9</TD><TD>43</TD><TD>20.9%</TD><TD>2</TD></TR><TR><TD>Roddy White </TD><TD>Atlanta Falcons</TD><TD>8</TD><TD>31</TD><TD>25.8%</TD><TD>1</TD></TR><TR><TD>Mark Clayton</TD><TD>Baltimore Ravens</TD><TD>8</TD><TD>27</TD><TD>29.6%</TD><TD>1</TD></TR><TR><TD>Andre Caldwell</TD><TD>Cincinnati Bengals</TD><TD>8</TD><TD>39</TD><TD>20.5%</TD><TD>3</TD></TR><TR><TD>Greg Jennings</TD><TD>Green Bay Packers</TD><TD>8</TD><TD>38</TD><TD>21.1%</TD><TD>1</TD></TR><TR><TD>John Carlson</TD><TD>Seattle Seahawks</TD><TD>8</TD><TD>43</TD><TD>18.6%</TD><TD>2</TD></TR><TR><TD>Steve Smith</TD><TD>Carolina Panthers</TD><TD>7</TD><TD>30</TD><TD>23.3%</TD><TD>1</TD></TR><TR><TD>Desmond Clark</TD><TD>Chicago Bears</TD><TD>7</TD><TD>45</TD><TD>15.6%</TD><TD>0</TD></TR><TR><TD>Devin Hester</TD><TD>Chicago Bears</TD><TD>7</TD><TD>45</TD><TD>15.6%</TD><TD>1</TD></TR><TR><TD>Eddie Royal</TD><TD>Denver Broncos</TD><TD>7</TD><TD>30</TD><TD>23.3%</TD><TD>0</TD></TR><TR><TD>Donald Lee</TD><TD>Green Bay Packers</TD><TD>7</TD><TD>38</TD><TD>18.4%</TD><TD>0</TD></TR><TR><TD>Anthony Fasano</TD><TD>Miami Dolphins</TD><TD>7</TD><TD>25</TD><TD>28.0%</TD><TD>1</TD></TR><TR><TD>Jeremy Shockey</TD><TD>New Orleans Saints</TD><TD>7</TD><TD>55</TD><TD>12.7%</TD><TD>2</TD></TR><TR><TD>Antonio Gates</TD><TD>San Diego Chargers</TD><TD>7</TD><TD>36</TD><TD>19.4%</TD><TD>1</TD></TR><TR><TD>Steve Breaston</TD><TD>Arizona Cardinals</TD><TD>6</TD><TD>43</TD><TD>14.0%</TD><TD>2</TD></TR><TR><TD>Lee Evans</TD><TD>Buffalo Bills</TD><TD>6</TD><TD>25</TD><TD>24.0%</TD><TD>1</TD></TR><TR><TD>Miles Austin</TD><TD>Dallas Cowboys</TD><TD>6</TD><TD>38</TD><TD>15.8%</TD><TD>2</TD></TR><TR><TD>Brandon Marshall</TD><TD>Denver Broncos</TD><TD>6</TD><TD>30</TD><TD>20.0%</TD><TD>4</TD></TR><TR><TD>Calvin Johnson</TD><TD>Detroit Lions</TD><TD>6</TD><TD>23</TD><TD>26.1%</TD><TD>1</TD></TR><TR><TD>Donald Driver</TD><TD>Green Bay Packers</TD><TD>6</TD><TD>38</TD><TD>15.8%</TD><TD>2</TD></TR><TR><TD>Mario Mannigham</TD><TD>New York Giants</TD><TD>6</TD><TD>39</TD><TD>15.4%</TD><TD>2</TD></TR><TR><TD>Jason Avant</TD><TD>Philadelphia Eagles</TD><TD>6</TD><TD>32</TD><TD>18.8%</TD><TD>1</TD></TR><TR><TD>Hines Ward</TD><TD>Pittsburgh Steelers</TD><TD>6</TD><TD>29</TD><TD>20.7%</TD><TD>3</TD></TR><TR><TD>Josh Morgan</TD><TD>San Francisco 49ers</TD><TD>6</TD><TD>30</TD><TD>20.0%</TD><TD>1</TD></TR><TR><TD>Randy McMichael</TD><TD>St. Louis Rams</TD><TD>6</TD><TD>29</TD><TD>20.7%</TD><TD> </TD></TR><TR><TD>Kellen Winslow</TD><TD>Tampa Bay Buccaneers</TD><TD>6</TD><TD>36</TD><TD>16.7%</TD><TD>4</TD></TR><TR><TD>Santana Moss</TD><TD>Washington Redskins</TD><TD>6</TD><TD>32</TD><TD>18.8%</TD><TD> </TD></TR><TR><TD>Anquan Boldin</TD><TD>Arizona Cardinals</TD><TD>5</TD><TD>43</TD><TD>11.6%</TD><TD>1</TD></TR><TR><TD>Derrick Mason</TD><TD>Baltimore Ravens</TD><TD>5</TD><TD>27</TD><TD>18.5%</TD><TD>3</TD></TR><TR><TD>Terrel Owens</TD><TD>Buffalo Bills</TD><TD>5</TD><TD>25</TD><TD>20.0%</TD><TD> </TD></TR><TR><TD>Chris Henry</TD><TD>Cincinnati Bengals</TD><TD>5</TD><TD>39</TD><TD>12.8%</TD><TD>2</TD></TR><TR><TD>Tony Sheffler</TD><TD>Denver Broncos</TD><TD>5</TD><TD>30</TD><TD>16.7%</TD><TD>2</TD></TR><TR><TD>Bryant Johnson</TD><TD>Detroit Lions</TD><TD>5</TD><TD>28</TD><TD>17.9%</TD><TD>2</TD></TR><TR><TD>Dallas Clark</TD><TD>Indianapolis Colts</TD><TD>5</TD><TD>42</TD><TD>11.9%</TD><TD>1</TD></TR><TR><TD>Pierre Garcon</TD><TD>Indianapolis Colts</TD><TD>5</TD><TD>42</TD><TD>11.9%</TD><TD> </TD></TR><TR><TD>Chris Chambers</TD><TD>Kansas City Chiefs</TD><TD>5</TD><TD>41</TD><TD>12.2%</TD><TD>1</TD></TR><TR><TD>Bobby Wade</TD><TD>Kansas City Chiefs</TD><TD>5</TD><TD>43</TD><TD>11.6%</TD><TD>2</TD></TR><TR><TD>Ben Watson</TD><TD>New England Patriots</TD><TD>5</TD><TD>51</TD><TD>9.8%</TD><TD>2</TD></TR><TR><TD>Heath Evans</TD><TD>New Orleans Saints</TD><TD>5</TD><TD>55</TD><TD>9.1%</TD><TD>1</TD></TR><TR><TD>Dustin Keller</TD><TD>New York Jets</TD><TD>5</TD><TD>24</TD><TD>20.8%</TD><TD>2</TD></TR><TR><TD>DeSean Jackson</TD><TD>Philadelphia Eagles</TD><TD>5</TD><TD>32</TD><TD>15.6%</TD><TD> </TD></TR><TR><TD>Antonio Bryant</TD><TD>Tampa Bay Buccaneers</TD><TD>5</TD><TD>36</TD><TD>13.9%</TD><TD>1</TD></TR><TR><TD>Michael Clayton</TD><TD>Tampa Bay Buccaneers</TD><TD>5</TD><TD>36</TD><TD>13.9%</TD><TD> </TD></TR><TR><TD>Devin Thomas</TD><TD>Washington Redskins</TD><TD>5</TD><TD>32</TD><TD>15.6%</TD><TD>1</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

HacheMan · Nov 13, 2009

Matchups: Sit Mike Sims-Walker
As usual, we'll cut the small talk in this space and head right to the matchups. Good luck, everyone.

[SIZE=+1]1:00PM ET Games[/SIZE]

Atlanta @ Carolina

Carolina's pass defense ranked No. 1 in the NFL entering Week 9, but Drew Brees knocked it down five notches with a 330-yard day. While the Panthers are one of the toughest teams against No. 1 wideouts (as Marques Colston owners can attest), Matt Ryan already lit them up for three touchdowns and 220 yards once this season. The conditions at Bank of America Stadium will be highly favorable (70+ degree temps, next to no wind, zero chance of rain), so Ryan would be very difficult to bench...Roddy White will square off with Panthers LCB Chris Gamble, who continues to play at a high level. White, however, had six catches and a touchdown in their last meeting.

Averaging 8.34 yards a carry in his last two games, Michael Turner is the NFL's hottest runner. He now faces a Panthers defense that permits 4.4 YPC, one rushing score per game, and lost top tackler Thomas Davis to a torn ACL in Week 9. Davis' replacement is Landon Johnson, who only makes plays way downfield...The Panthers cover wideouts well, but struggle badly against tight ends. Michael Jenkins is bench material, as usual, but Tony Gonzalez is an elite TE play.

Only DeAngelo Williams has a case for being on as big a tear as Turner. Week 9's two-TD effort proved Williams is not in danger of losing red-zone duties to Jonathan Stewart, and D-Will has racked up 458 total yards on a ridiculous 6.6 YPC average in his last three outings. Carolina's heavyweight, mauling offensive line is a good bet to overpower Atlanta's undersized front four. The Falcons are giving up 4.5 yards per carry for the season. The Panthers will certainly pound the football. Consider Williams an elite RB1 and Stewart a viable flex.

Jake Delhomme has disintegrated into a full-blown game manager. After trying just 14 passes in Week 8, he had a measly five throws at halftime last week (to Carolina's 22 rushes) before falling behind forced the Panthers to pass. John Fox's decidedly run-first philosophy makes Delhomme a low-end QB2, even against Atlanta's No. 27 pass defense, and kills any value Muhsin Muhammad or the Panthers' tight ends already didn't have...Steve Smith is a weekly crapshoot, but he had eight grabs for 131 yards at Atlanta in Week 2. The Falcons don't have the corners to stop him.

Tampa Bay @ Miami

Josh Freeman's three-touchdown, 205-yard debut excited Bucs fans, but he will be easy to game plan against going forward. The rookie was lost when lined up under center, completing just 1-of-10 attempts as opposed to 13-of-21 in the shotgun. Even with rookie cornerbacks, the Dolphins will be able to adjust accordingly. They also bring much more pressure than Freeman's Week 9 opponent. Miami has 21 sacks this season (tied for 7th most) to Green Bay's 13 (29th)...Bucs No. 1 receiver Antonio Bryant's swollen knee will keep him out for a second straight week.

Carnell Williams has 29 touches for 113 yards (3.89 average) and no scores to Derrick Ward's 21 touches for 115 yards (5.47) and one score in the Bucs' last two games. Ward is obviously the superior player, but the timeshare crushes both backs' fantasy upsides. Don't try guessing who will have a better day against Miami's fifth-ranked run defense...The Fins have struggled to stop tight ends all year, so Kellen Winslow will be open...Bryant's absence isn't helping Michael Clayton, who had one catch in Freeman's debut...Maurice Stovall and Sammie Stroughter are similarly poor bets.

Aqib Talib has routinely shut down top wideouts since Bucs coach Raheem Morris began using him as a shadow corner early in the year. This may give the Fins a hidden edge, because they lack a "No. 1" receiver. Miami will keep it on the ground and have success against a Tampa defense that has no prayer of stopping the run. The Bucs' rush defense ranks 30th overall, surrenders 4.8 YPC (third worst in the NFL), and has given up a league-high 10 runs of 20+ yards. Ronnie Brown is an RB1 despite a slow last few games, while Ricky Williams is a legit RB2.

Chad Henne has just one touchdown in his last three games while averaging a meager 181 yards with two picks. His attempts total will most likely be in the 25 range, making Henne a low-end QB2 despite the favorable matchup...Davone Bess continues to pace the Fins in catches, but no Miami receiver has upside thanks to a four-man rotation...Ted Ginn Jr. is still not a starter...Anthony Fasano, the No. 36 fantasy TE, is battling a hip injury. He's waiver wire fodder.

Detroit @ Minnesota

The halfway point is when Brett Favre usually begins to struggle. It wasn't just last year that his play fell way off during a stretch run. While this trend is a long-term concern, Favre is a must-start against an NFC-worst Lions secondary that's given up 19 passing TDs (second most in the NFL) and gets little pressure up front. Favre had a Week 9 bye to rest his arm, and now gets to play indoors...For his career, Adrian Peterson averages 22 touches a game for 118 yards with three TDs in five meetings with Detroit. Expect a balanced-to-run heavy approach from the Vikes.

The Lions' poor pass rush makes Bernard Berrian an intriguing play. While Berrian hasn't topped 75 yards in a game this year, he's scored in three of his last five and should find openings deep because Favre will have time. Consider Berrian a high-upside WR3, and a better bet than Percy Harvin...With Berrian running sideline go routes against Phillip Buchanon, Sidney Rice will square off with journeyman Will James. James (6'0/200) has enough size to give Rice trouble at the line, but the overall matchup is too favorable to confidently sit Rice...Visanthe Shiancoe leads the Vikings in receiving touchdowns, but remains boom or bust every week. He hasn't topped 49 yards all year.

Calvin Johnson disappointed with 27 yards in his Week 9 return, but the Lions will have to heavily re-involve their star wideout to have any chance of staying in this game. Struggling Kevin Smith won't have success against Minnesota's top-six run defense, and the Vikings' lone vulnerability is in the secondary with LCB Antoine Winfield (foot) set to miss another game. Matthew Stafford's accuracy remains an issue, but at least he's targeting Johnson with frequency. Calvin routinely got open downfield in last Sunday's loss to Seattle, and Stafford directed nine passes his way.

Brandon Pettigrew is coming off the best game of his career (7-70-1), but remains a TE2 with only two teams on Week 10 byes, neither of which (Giants, Texans) possess productive fantasy tight ends...While Bryant Johnson scored last week, he averages just 40.7 yards a game. He doesn't capitalize on single coverage...Smith is only a flex option in the unfavorable matchup. Maurice Morris isn't a big threat, but Smith's confidence seems to be down and his receiving-game role hasn't increased. Tossing out a year-long 37-yard run last week at Seattle, he averaged 2.5 YPC.



Cincinnati @ Pittsburgh

The supposed Week 10 "undercard" to Indianapolis-New England features the NFL's top two run defenses. Cedric Benson has proven matchup proof this season, however, and averaged 4.8 YPC with a rushing touchdown in his last game against Pittsburgh. Cincinnati's powerful line creates gaps in defensive front sevens and Benson consistently explodes through them. While this may be a low-scoring affair, Benson is the best bet for a touchdown on the Bengals' side.

Chris Henry's loss won't necessarily mean more targets for Andre Caldwell or Laveranues Coles. They are rotating possession receivers; Henry was a situational deep threat. Chad Ochocinco may see the biggest value hike, as he's suddenly the only wideout that OC Bob Bratkowski will consistently send deep...The Steelers have given up the eighth fewest passing TDs all year and allow just a 6.3 YPA (sixth least). Heinz Field will have fair weather (mid-60s temps, only 5PM winds, 10% chance of rain), but Carson Palmer isn't a great fantasy bet.

Last week, Bengals DC Mike Zimmer shut down every Baltimore skill player except Ray Rice. While that seemingly bodes well for Rashard Mendenhall, the vast majority of Rice's 135 yards came on check downs and screens -- a role filled by Mewelde Moore in Pittsburgh's offense. Cincinnati is No. 2 in the league against the run, so tread lightly when considering Mendenhall more than an RB2/FLEX...Willie Parker is a complete non-factor at this point. He's now third in line for touches in the Steelers' backfield and was in for only a handful of snaps last Monday night.

Lacking secondary depth, the Bengals are susceptible to a spread attack. They get back SS Roy Williams (arm) after a two-week absence, but he is easily beaten by the pass. Look for the Steelers, who often use the spread, to routinely pick on Williams and Bengals nickel CB Morgan Trent. Johnathan Joseph and Leon Hall are excellent corners, but Cincy has enough leaks elsewhere to keep Ben Roethlisberger as a must-start...Stats from the last Bengals-Steelers game: Mike Wallace (7-102), Hines Ward (4-82), Santonio Holmes (1-18), Heath Miller (5-20).

Buffalo @ Tennessee

Stalwart Chris Johnson backer Chris Wesseling about peed himself when he noticed the correctly self-dubbed "Every Coach's Dream" getting goal-line carries ahead of LenDale White in Week 9. This is a major boost to C.J.'s fantasy value, on top of his blossoming workload. Since OC Mike Heimerdinger used the Week 7 bye to reassess his offensive approach, Johnson is averaging 27 touches for 200 total yards per game, with four TDs in the last two weeks. C.J. and the Titans' overpowering front five pose a severe mismatch for Buffalo's 32nd-ranked run defense.

On the flip side, Vince Young and his receivers are highly unlikely to have success against a Bills pass defense that's surrendered just six touchdowns and 6.1 yards per throw (both third fewest in the league). V.Y. isn't remotely an option on his own, and no one from the Titans' receiver corps or three-tight end rotation is worth starting...Kenny Britt will see every-down snaps with Justin Gage (back) out, but even still he's a poor bet in a highly unfavorable matchup...Once an every-week option in touchdown-heavy formats, LenDale is no more than Johnson's handcuff.

Trent Edwards, the NFL's most injury-prone QB, rejoins the lineup to face a hot Titans secondary. Since getting back CB Cortland Finnegan (hamstring) and nickel back Vincent Fuller (arm), the Titans have picked off five passes in two games while getting "coverage sacks" again. Edwards isn't a good two-QB league bet despite 70-degree weather, no chance of rain, and little wind in the LP Field forecast...Terrell Owens' (hip) likely absence further hurts Edwards. T.O. hasn't been close to a difference maker in Buffalo, but was at least someone defenses had to account for.

Marshawn Lynch's matchup looks favorable, but two factors are working against him: 1) the Titans will likely dominate time of possession; 2) Lynch and Fred Jackson saw the exact same amount of carries (9) in Buffalo's last game. Consider Lynch a mid-level RB2 against the NFL's No. 18 run defense...Josh Reed will start if Owens sits. Reed, a one-dimensional possession receiver, is averaging 9.5 yards a catch on the season. He won't top 60 yards...Lee Evans is the only Bills pass catcher worthy of fantasy use. He'll definitely lead Buffalo in targets.

Denver @ Washington

In a battle of top-six defenses, the Broncos have a big advantage because they don't turn the ball over and move it with much more efficiency than the Skins. The most glaring mismatch is on the weak side of Washington's offense, where AFC sacks leader Elvis Dumervil is likely to dominate new Redskins LT Levi Jones. Jones is making his first start since Week 11 of 2008. Jason Campbell will again struggle to find time to throw, crushing his ability to find Santana Moss deep. Avoid all Redskins pass catchers -- particularly Fred Davis, who will be covered by Brian Dawkins.

In a poor week for fantasy pickups, Ladell Betts was the No. 1 waiver claim. He'll start in place of Clinton Portis (concussion), but is a weak bet for rushing yards or touchdowns. Betts can be used as an RB2/FLEX in points-per-reception leagues. Campbell will likely be checking down often to avoid Elvis, while Moss, Davis, Antwaan Randle El, and Devin Thomas struggle to find creases in Denver's No. 7 pass defense.

The Redskins' No. 1 pass defense is legit. Washington brings heat -- their 21 sacks are tied for seventh most in the league -- covers well outside, and has given up just seven passing TDs in eight games. While Brandon Marshall sees action in the slot and is a must-start every week, Kyle Orton is a mere QB2 coming off a three-interception performance…Tony Scheffler (12 yards in his last two games) is an obvious "sit"…Eddie Royal had 74 yards on five catches Monday night against Pittsburgh, but is always a threat to go back in the tank after promising efforts.

The Broncos' backfield pecking order is showing no signs of separation. After coming off the bench for three straight games, Correll Buckhalter ran with the first-team offense ahead of Knowshon Moreno in Week 9 and saw 11 touches to the rookie's five. Buckhalter is being used much more frequently in passing sets, which isn't a great sign for Moreno. Neither is Moreno's 3.7 YPC average, compared to Buckhalter's 5.5. Until clarity emerges here (and it may not), both backs are very poor RB2 gambles, especially against Albert Haynesworth-led front sevens.

New Orleans @ St. Louis

This game presents severe mismatches at virtually every position. New Orleans is first in total offense; St. Louis is 28th in defense. The Saints lead the NFL in rushing scores; the Rams give up the second most and are 27th against the run. You know the drill with Drew Brees, Marques Colston, and Pierre Thomas...Thomas has secured a clear edge in the Saints' backfield with 34 touches and three TDs in the last two games to Mike Bell's 22 and no scores. Bell may see an uptick in attempts if this one gets out of hand early, but he's still a big risk. Thomas is an RB1.

Saints WRs after Colston are crapshoots, but gain value when one gets hurt. With Lance Moore (ankle) out in Week 9, Devery Henderson and Robert Meachem both topped 90 yards. Jeremy Shockey had only 26, but would've scored had he turned his head on time for a ball that hit him in the back. While Shockey is a quality TE1 against St. Louis' burnable safeties, Meachem is the best bet at "No. 2" wideout with Moore likely out again. He's outplayed Henderson over the last two weeks and as a "backup," will see increased snaps in the probable blowout.

The only way St. Louis can keep this one close is by leaning on Steven Jackson early and often. The Saints' lone weakness is on the defensive interior with DT Sedrick Ellis (MCL sprain) still out. Since Ellis' injury, New Orleans has been gashed for a 5.72 YPC average and three rushing TDs in two games. The Rams also finally appear to have found the right mix on the offensive line, with Adam Goldberg at right guard and rookie Jason Smith settling in as the full-time right tackle. Thankfully, Richie Incognito (Lisfranc sprain) probably won't have a starting job when he returns.

Dynasty prospect to watch: Rams WR Brandon Gibson. Gibson is now seeing first-team practice reps, and will likely play in a Week 10 timeshare with Keenan Burton out wide...Slot man Danny Amendola (head) is healthy and a sneaky bet for 5-7 catches if the Rams fall behind...Donnie Avery's topped 58 yards just once all season, but his effectiveness has mostly been sapped by injuries. Coming off a Week 9 bye to heal, Avery is a quality WR3 indoors against a Saints defense that is tough, but hampered by nagging ailments to top DBs Jabari Greer (groin) and Darren Sharper (knee).



Jacksonville @ NY Jets

Reasons to sit Mike Sims-Walker at the Jets: 1) David Garrard hasn't thrown a TD on the road all year; 2) the Jets are No. 2 against the pass; 3) Sims-Walker will likely be shadowed by Darrelle Revis, who's shut down Randy Moss, Marques Colston, Andre Johnson, and Terrell Owens; 4) the Meadowlands forecast has flip-flopped all week. Late Wednesday it called for 18MPH winds and a 70% chance of rain...Garrard had 188 yards and no TDs in the one game he played without Sims-Walker this year. Combine that with the Jets' stoutness against the pass and Garrard is bench material.

Jags OC Dirk Koetter would be smart to employ another run-first game plan after getting Maurice Jones-Drew 32 touches in a Week 9 win. The Jets are a middling 15th against the run, and 330-pound guards Vince Manuwai and Uche Nwaneri can dominate the trenches against New York's Kris Jenkins-less line. MoJo is the No. 1 player in fantasy...Averaging 10 receiving yards since Week 4, Marcedes Lewis should get comfortable on fantasy waiver wires...Torry Holt is the best bet to lead Jacksonville in receiving with Lito Sheppard in coverage, but remains barely a WR3.

Assuming fair weather, the Jets should have success both on the ground and in the air. The Jags rank 26th against the pass and have served up the sixth most passing TDs in the league (over two per game). While Mark Sanchez remains a clear-cut QB2, Braylon Edwards is a quality WR2 and Jerricho Cotchery should be reinserted as a WR3. Cotchery had a 53-yard catch-and-run in his last game, then got a Week 9 bye to work out any lingering kinks in his hamstring...Dustin Keller had his best game of the year before the off week, and the Jags are mediocre against TEs.

Shonn Greene lost a fumble that was returned for a TD in his last game, earning him a spot in Rex Ryan's doghouse. Wait for a consistent role before using the third-round pick...Jack Del Rio admitted this week that the Jets' offensive line is the best the Jacksonville has faced all year. The Jags are also transitioning in the front seven, switching to a 4-3 after using a 3-4 throughout the first half. Grossly undersized Bryan Smith (6'2/245) is now starting at right end. Look for Thomas Jones to excel on outside runs, see 25+ touches, and total 100+ yards for a fourth straight game.

[SIZE=+1]4:05PM ET Game[/SIZE]

Kansas City @ Oakland

The Chiefs essentially used a three-headed monster in Week 9, with Jamaal Charles replacing since-released Larry Johnson as the starter, Dantrell Savage seeing early-game touches, and Kolby Smith picking up red-zone carries. Kansas City's mediocre-at-best offense and easily-beaten line cannot support a worthwhile fantasy back in this scenario. Smith is the best bet for touchdowns and Charles should continue to see the most touches because of his per-play productivity, but no one here is more than a desperate FLEX play.

Chiefs coach Todd Haley took a pass-first, no-huddle approach in the second half of Week 9 and every passing-game member benefited, with Chris Chambers scoring both of his TDs in the final two quarters and Dwayne Bowe racking up 67 second-half yards. K.C. nearly inched out a win over the Jaguars. While Bowe is an every-week fantasy play, wait and see on Chambers, Matt Cassel, and slot man Lance Long (8-74 last Sunday). Oakland's pass defense is tough (13th overall) and has yielded just eight TDs in eight games. The Chiefs may only have changed the offense because they were behind.

Theoretically, the Raiders have the speed at receiver to give a slow Chiefs secondary fits. Louis Murphy runs sub-4.4 and Darrius Heyward-Bey is a sub-4.3. But no team has fewer passing plays of 20+ yards than Oakland. With supposed "No. 1" receiver Chaz Schilens (foot) finally back, the Raiders' three-wideout rotation doesn't possess a true fantasy option...JaMarcus Russell returns from a Week 9 bye after saying that he was "pleased" with his 109-yard passing effort in Week 8. That tells you all you need to know about this passing game and Russell's delusional self-evaluation.

The Chiefs don't cover tight ends particularly well, so Zach Miller is worth using if you don't have superior options. But you should...Darren McFadden has practiced all week and will finally return from in-season knee surgery. Expect the Raiders to "ease in" their $60 million RB, using an even committee with Justin Fargas, and Michael Bush seeing spot carries as the No. 3 back. Fargas is the best fantasy play this week. He has the coaching staff's full confidence and will probably get most red-zone work. The Raiders can't risk McFadden reinjuring his knee in a goal-line pileup.

[SIZE=+1]4:15PM ET Games[/SIZE]

Seattle @ Arizona

Seattle's new pass-first mindset should be executed successfully with LT Sean Locklear (ankle) poised to return and most passing-game members playing well. On pace for a career-high 90 grabs and 1,124 yards, Nate Burleson is enjoying a rare seventh-year breakout. Matt Hasselbeck is throwing mostly short passes, playing to T.J. Houshmandzadeh's strengths. He looks for Burleson when going deep. Arizona is 28th against the pass and brings only modest pressure. Hasselbeck is a low-end QB1, while Burleson is a fine WR2 and Housh a quality WR3/FLEX.

The revised approach will affect Seattle's running game, decreasing the amount of carries Julius Jones and Justin Forsett combine for on a weekly basis. However, Edgerrin James' release prior to Week 9 did not result in an expanded role for Forsett, as we (logically) expected. He played strictly in passing sets, getting five catches but just one carry. No. 3 back Louis Rankin -- also talked up after Edge was cut -- only returned kicks. Jones remains the Seattle RB to own by a long shot, though he's only a FLEX consideration against Arizona's top-ten run defense.

The Cards tore up Chicago's Cover 2 in Week 9, with Kurt Warner tossing a season-high five TDs a week after throwing five picks. He'll see more zone this week, as Seahawks coach Jim Mora is a believer in the scheme. Consider Warner a marquee QB1 against Mora's No. 17 pass defense. As usual, weather will favor passing in the desert...Anquan Boldin's (ankle) full practice week makes him a strong WR2 play. Boldin wasn't happy about his last-minute deactivation in Week 9, but says he's "moved on." Look for Warner to get him a few catches early in the game.

Back on pace for 112 catches and 14 scores after a brief statistical lull, Larry Fitzgerald is sure to excel in this matchup...Third receiver Steve Breaston doesn't necessarily take a hit with Boldin back. They were posting similar numbers before Q's ankle sprain...Tim Hightower is entrenched as Arizona's lead back again after coach Ken Whisenhunt promised more carries for Chris Wells a few weeks ago. While Wells is a mere early-down "change of pace" at this point, Hightower gets 80 percent of the red-zone carries and has 32 touches to Beanie's 21 in the last two games.

Dallas @ Green Bay

Tony Romo kills in November. In 13 career turkey-month starts, he is 13-0 with 35 touchdowns to 10 interceptions. The Packers are typically tough against the pass, but there's no sense in testing this trend. Romo is a Wisconsin native, so the sub-50 temperatures and 13-14MPH winds in the Lambeau forecast are unlikely to affect him as they would other players...Miles Austin is now getting the double teams he deserves and will go against Packers LCB Charles Woodson for the majority of this one. He's still a WR2, but don't expect elite fantasy numbers the rest of the way.

It's time to get Roy Williams into lineups as a WR3. He capitalized on less defensive attention last week for 75 yards on five catches, and now faces burnable Packers RCB Al Harris...Green Bay covers tight ends well, but doesn't bring enough pressure to force Jason Witten into a blocking role, especially with Aaron Kampman (concussion) unlikely to play...While Green Bay has a top-ten run defense and allows only 3.5 YPC (second lowest in the NFL), Marion Barber is a solid RB2. Dallas should not struggle to move the ball, setting up scoring chances for MB3. Tashard Choice's fluky Week 9 goal-line TD came out of the Cowboys' little-used Wildcat formation.

The Packers' offensive line remains a nightmare. They're on pace to surrender the most sacks in history, and now face a Cowboys club led by All-Pro OLB DeMarcus Ware. Ware will face off with LT Chad Clifton, which is a mismatch for Green Bay. The Pack will likely focus on short passing and the run game plenty, even if Ryan Grant struggles against the Dallas' No. 11 rush defense. Green Bay can simply not afford to have Aaron Rodgers dropping back five steps often...This could be a boon to Donald Driver, and perhaps even James Jones. They are the Packers' most potent possession threats.

There's little to like about Grant's matchup, other than the aforementioned speculation. He should get 20 touches, but Dallas has given up just three rushing TDs all year. He's a very mediocre RB2...While Jermichael Finley (knee) is out again, Donald Lee remains a full-time blocker. Lee has just 29 yards in the games Finley has missed...With Terence Newman will on Driver, Greg Jennings should spend most of the day lined up across from Mike Jenkins. Jenkins has raised his level of play considerably since early in the season, but Jennings remains a must-start.



Philadelphia @ San Diego

This game sets up as perhaps Sunday's most throw-heavy, high-scoring affair. Both clubs rank in the top half of the league in pass attempts and start 30-year-old running backs battling injuries. Brian Westbrook is "questionable" after experiencing ankle swelling early this week, but has resumed practicing in full and is worth waiting for in the late game because he's likely to play. He's also facing the No. 26 run defense. A committee with LeSean McCoy is inevitable, but Westbrook gets the most touches when he's active and swipes virtually all red-zone work.

DeSean Jackson goes back to Cali for a matchup with sure-tackling but burnable-deep Chargers LCB Quentin Jammer. It's a favorable setup for the speedy D-Jax...Jeremy Maclin, on the other hand, is a poor bet to top 65 yards. Bolts RCB Antonio Cromartie has apparently got the memo that his contract expires soon, and he's playing like it. Cromartie does well against speedy receivers that "play small" like the Eagles' 2009 first-round pick...Donovan McNabb and Brent Celek are obvious must-starts. 14MPH winds at Qualcomm won't be a big problem for McNabb's big arm, and it'll be sunny with mid-60s temps. The Chargers remain awful against TEs.

The Eagles are tough against the run (No. 10 rush defense) and pass (No. 11), so there's no easy way for San Diego to attack. Most likely, however, the Bolts will continue to pass heavily because that's been their most successful approach all year. Vincent Jackson has a matchup ripe for the picking against Eagles LCB Asante Samuel, who gives up seven inches and 55 pounds to V-Jax. Samuel is an excellent corner, but his strength is gambling. He'll struggle to tackle Jackson on short patterns, especially if he's lunging for interceptions rather than keeping V-Jax in front of him.

Due to juggling at linebacker and safety, tight ends have gashed the Birds throughout 2009. Chris Gocong's installation at middle linebacker to compensate for Akeem Jordan's (knee) absence won't help. Antonio Gates is a top-five option, as usual...Gregg Rosenthal ranked LaDainian Tomlinson out of the top-30 RBs this week for good reason. There's no sense in using a severely declining runner with a sore hip in an unfavorable matchup...Malcom Floyd disappointed last week, and gets a tougher test against Sheldon Brown on Sunday. Brown's been very arguably the Birds' best cover man in 2009.

HacheMan · Nov 13, 2009

Not Ready for Prime Time

With apologies to Lorne Michaels and the original Saturday Night Live cast, Bears quarterback Jay Cutler has rightfully earned the "Not Ready for Prime Time Player" moniker this season. After throwing five picks in the Bears' 10-6 loss on the season debut of NFL Network's Thursday Night Football, Cutler now has 11 interceptions in 12 nationally televized quarters this season.

Cutler's feeble prime-time effort has earned him a place in Bears history, becoming the first quarterback to record two four-interception games in the same season since Billy Wade in 1962. The offseason's highest profile acquisition is now the league leader in interceptions with 17. Though the talking heads have already begun making excuses for Cutler's errant throws, the first red-zone pick was inexcusable and the final one was nothing short of back-breakingly careless. Cutler actually had a chance to play the hero, driving the Bears from his own 20-yard line to the Niners' 12 with eight seconds left. Under pressure, he rushed a throw to a double-covered Greg Olsen in the end zone. To nobody's surprise, the ball ended up in the hands of safety Michael Lewis.

If body language is important in a quarterback, then Cutler failed miserably once again. His petulance was on full display during the "McJaygate" drama in March, and it reared its ugly ahead again after each of his Thursday night picks. The comparisons to Jeff George, originally begun months ago, popped up throughout the game on Twitter. It's admittedly as facile a connection as "Nuke" Laloosh: Cutler certainly has a million dollar arm, and I'm getting a good idea about that five-cent head of his.

Cutler aside, this was still an ugly, disjointed game throughout. The Niners didn't win the game as much as the Bears lost it behind a flurry of turnovers, mental mistakes, and penalties. A monument to offensive line ineptitude on both sides, the difference in the game resided in the disparate second-half philosophies. While the 49ers elected to play it frustratingly close to the vest, the Bears operated more aggressively knowing they had Cutler's right arm as a weapon. It ended up costing them the game – and likely a shot at a playoff birth.

Editor's Note: Check out our exclusive projections for all the players listed here in Rotoworld's Season Pass package, now 33% off. We've also got extra columns, IDP rankings, Top 200 rankings, Evan Silva's running back report, Chris Wesseling's Dynasty advice, advance workload and target data, exclusive chats, schedule analysis, and fantasy points allowed info you can only get with Season Pass.

49ers Notes:

Even with the Niners having to resort to deception in the running game, Frank Gore was clearly the best player on the field Thursday. Coordinator Jimmy Raye mixed in runs out of the shotgun and a three-receiver set, and Gore averaged 8.1 yards per carry running outside as opposed to 1.5 yards per carry between the tackles. Gore's 0.8 yards per carry on 10 attempts from the base offense suggests the team will continue to move toward a more shotgun-heavy approach.

Speaking of the shotgun, Alex Smith completed 9 of 11 passes for 71 yards and a 93.6 passer rating from the formation while struggling mightily on plays under center. After Smith's second quarter interception, though, the Niners appeared to have pass protection concerns and started playing not to lose. The offense skewed toward the run thereafter, with Smith often checking out of the pass at the line of scrimmage. Expect San Fran to resume their pass-first offense next week at Green Bay.

The numbers don't tell the whole story on Michael Crabtree. He continues to impress with his body control, physicality, catch radius, and ability to track the ball. He nearly made a spectacular, leaping sideline grab on the first pass of the game, but it was ruled out of bounds. The Niners also figured out that both he and Smith run the slant well, and he showed a tough running-back style after the catch. The next step is for him to become a major target in the red zone.

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Two-Minute Drill: According to agent Peter Schaffer, Larry Johnson will not sign with a new team until Monday at the earliest. … The Cowboys are looking at other options on kickoff returns because Felix Jones is now healthy and ready for a heavier offensive load. … Ravens coach John Harbaugh insists he remains committed to K Steven Hauschka "Monday night and going forward." … With Chaz Schilens finally healthy, Raiders coach Tom Cable is considering starting in a three-receiver set Sunday against Kansas City. … Eagles LB Will Witherspoon is moving to the weakside this week, with Chris Gocong taking over the middle and rookie Moise Fokou at strongside. It could be just a temporary change until Akeem Jordan returns. … Jamal Lewis ripped into head coach Eric Mangini, claiming the team is being worked too hard during the practice week. … Looking for a spark, the Packers' offense held a closed-door meeting Wednesday to address their offensive problems.

Red Zone: Ladell Betts (ankle) was officially listed as a non-participant, though reporters and the team's website "tweeted" that he was limited. He's still expected to start against the Broncos with Clinton Portis (concussion) officially out. … Brian Westbrook (concussion, ankle) returned to a full practice, as expected. … DeAngelo Williams (knee) was back at Panthers practice on a limited basis. … Anquan Boldin (ankle) and Donald Brown (shoulder) practiced in full for the second straight day. … Maurice Jones-Drew (knee) popped up as limited, but he's fully expected to play. … LaDanian Tomlinson (hip) and Antonio Gates (foot) returned to practice, as expected. … Brandon Marshall (back) and Marques Colston (flu) are good to go after returning to practice Thursday. … Terrell Owens (hip) missed a second straight practice Thursday and appears to be a game-time decision. … Aaron Rodgers (foot, toe) was upgraded to full participation. … Justin Gage is likely out at least two weeks after being diagnosed with multiple fractures to transverse process bones in his back. … Bengals WLB Keith Rivers (calf strain) will miss this week's game against the Steelers. … Vikings CB Antoine Winfield (foot) will not play against the Lions this Sunday. … The Lions have no timetable for WLB Ernie Sims' return after he was diagnosed with a Grade 2 tear in his hamstring.

HacheMan · Nov 16, 2009

Out of This World
With just three weeks remaining in the fantasy regular season, it's make or break time for fantasy owners, as every yard and meaningless touchdown suddenly become meaningful – Maurice Jones-Drew, I do not accept your apology.

With that said, here are this week's highs and lows, as the stars definitely came out to play in Week 10.

Top 5 Quarterbacks:

1. Peyton Manning – 327 Pass Yds, 4 TDs, 2 INTs – Manning capped off an unbelievable finish to an unbelievable game by hitting his favorite target, Reggie Wayne, on a slant route with 13 seconds left. After only throwing for one touchdown in the past two weeks, Peyton got back on track and then some.

2. Tom Brady – 375 Pass Yds, 3 TDs, 1 INT – Tom Brady was, well, Tom Brady. He has now thrown for 13 touchdowns in his past four games, as he looks as comfortable as ever in the pocket. He is clicking on all cylinders with Moss and Welker, and that's as unstoppable a force as you can have when things are going well.

3. Donovan McNabb – 450 Pass Yds, 2 TDs, 1 INT – Anytime you chuck the ball up 55 times in a game, its usually going to be a good fantasy day. After an abysmal performance last week, Donovan rounded back into form on Sunday in a losing effort against the Chargers.

4. Kurt Warner – 340 Pass Yds, 2 TDs, 0 INTs – Back-to-back great weeks, and it gets even better. Up next are the lowly Rams, so Warner should easily be able to alleviate the pain caused by his early season struggles.

5. David Garrard – 221 Pass Yds, 1 TD, 0 INTs, 11 Rush Yds, 1 TD – So much for the Jets disrupting the Jags' passing game. Garrard played mistake free football, and it didn't hurt that MJD made the Jets respect the running game, giving Garrard time to connect with his receivers. He's too inconsistent to consider using going forward, especially since the 'Bye' weeks are now over.

Top 5 Running Backs:

1. Chris Johnson – 132 Rush Yds, 2 TDs, 9 Rec, 100 Yds – CJ is playing out of his mind right now. I'm starting to think that he's not human, because for him to continue to dominate when teams know they need to focus on him is just amazing. The days of splitting carries with LenDale White are far in the past, as Johnson has catapulted himself into the top fantasy back in the game.

2. Adrian Peterson – 133 Rush Yds, 2 TDs, 2 Rec, 10 Yds, 1 FL – AP was an absolute beast on Sunday. If he didn't get the ball poked out from behind, his day would have been even bigger, but I'm not about to be picky. His past five games have shown just how consistent his production can be, and that's all you can ask for from the number one pick.

3. Steven Jackson – 131 Rush Yds, 1 TD, 9 Rec, 45 Yds – After not scoring all season, S-Jax has now found paydirt in two consecutive weeks. To take it a step further, he has rushed for 130-plus yards in three straight, and should be given a consolation prize for producing like a champ on a Rams team that has trouble getting out of their own way.

4. Chris Wells – 85 Rush Yds, 2 TDs, 2 Rec, 32 Yds – In Beanie we trust. The rook had his coming out party on Sunday, and it should be more of the same from here on out, as Tim Hightower might be taking a back seat. Wells had 16 carries to Hightower's 10 and, more importantly, both of his scores came inside the red zone.

5. LaDainian Tomlinson – 96 Rush Yds, 2 TDs – LT2 proved doubters wrong this week, if you had enough courage to start him. You don't need me to tell you that he has been a huge disappointment this season, but he may be in line for a couple more good games in the upcoming weeks as he faces the Chiefs and Browns in Weeks 12 and 13.

Top 5 Wide Receivers:

1. Randy Moss – 9 Rec, 179 Yds, 2 TDs – Moss continued his trend of monster games on Sunday night, as he produced his fifth 100-yard game of the season and third game with 22-plus fantasy points. Look for the streaky play that haunted him early in the season to come to a hault, as he and Brady are partying like it's 2007.

2. Brandon Marshall – 5 Rec, 134 Yds, 2 TDs, 9 Rush Yds – Marshall did most of his damage in the first half before Kyle Orton got injured, but he's now notched two consecutive 100-yard games and appears poised to continue his recent success going forward. Orton's injury could throw a monkey wrench in those plans, however, as it's definitely something to keep an eye on.

3. Reggie Wayne – 10 Rec, 126 Yds, 2 TDs – Wayne bounced back very nicely from last week's subpar performance. He hauled in his seventh and eighth touchdowns on Sunday night, including the game winner. He has scored in all but two games this season, and is as matchup proof as matchup proof gets.

4. Sidney Rice – 7 Rec, 201 Yds, 0 TDs – He may only have two touchdowns on the season, but he doesn't need them. Rice has gone over the 135-yard mark in three of his past four games, while quickly emerging as Brett Favre's favorite downfield target.

5. Donnie Avery – 4 Rec, 67 Yds, 2 TDs – Where did this performance come from? Avery has been a major bust in his second season, and I wouldn't get too excited by this performance. He has talent, but the Rams offense is far too inconsistent to consider using him.

Top 5 Tight Ends:

1. Kellen Winslow – 7 Rec, 102 Yds, 0 TDs – Two games under Josh Freeman and two solid fantasy performances. Kellen has been up-and-down this season, but he's still a must start at the tight end position, because it looks like Freeman feels comfortable throwing him the ball.

2. Brent Celek – 6 Rec, 47 Yds, 1 TD – Celek has been lethal in his past three games, and all season long for that matter. After scoring his third touchdown in as many weeks, this kid has fully solidified his status as one of the top steals on draft day.

3. Will Heller – 4 Rec, 33 Yds, 1 TD – Not much to say here other than, "You better not be thinking about picking him up."

4. John Carlson – 1 Rec, 31 Yds, 1 TD – Carlson made his one catch count, as he had his first productive fantasy game since Week 1. Things have not worked out as many have envisioned for Carlson, as his involvement in the Seahawks' offense has not been anywhere close to last season.

5. Kory Sperry – 3 Rec, 31 Yds, 1 TD – Kory Who? The Dolphins tight end hauled in his first three receptions of the season on Sunday, and probably won't see the field once Fasano returns.

Top 5 Defenses/Special Teams:

1. Tennessee Titans – 17 PA, 2 Sacks, 2 INTs, 2 TDs – This unit is on fire. That'll probably all change against Houston next week, but it has been a good three-week run.

2. San Francisco 49ers – 6 PA, 0 Sacks, 5 INTs – Jay Cutler has quickly become any defenses' best friend, so be careful before rolling with the Niners next week against Green Bay.

3. Cincinnati Bengals – 12 PA, 2 Sacks, 1 INT, 1 TD – The Bengals were in Big Ben's face all day, but it was Bernard Scott's 96-yard kickoff return for a touchdown that proved to be the only score of the game.

4. Green Bay Packers – 7 PA, 5 Sacks, 1 INT, 2 FR – Against the Niners and Lions in the next two weeks, the Packers just might be worth using again. Wishful thinking? Maybe. Foolishness? Probably.

5. Kansas City Chiefs – 10 PA, 2 Sacks, 2 INTs – The Raiders can really make anyone look good. This was a heads up matchup play, but make sure you get a new defense next week, because the Steelers are going to come out angry.

Bottom 5 Quarterbacks:

1. Jay Cutler – 307 Pass Yds, 0 TDs, 5 INTs – Mr. Interception strikes again.
2. Ben Roethlisberger – 174 Pass Yds, 0 TDs, 1 INT, 16 Rush Yds – Rare occurrence to see him here.
3. Alex Smith – 118 Pass Yds, 0 TDs, 1 INT
4. Matt Cassel – 216 Pass Yds, 0 TDs, 1 INT, 1 FL
5. Carson Palmer – 178 Pass Yds, 0 TDs, 0 INTs

Bottom 5 Running Backs:

1. Cedric Benson – 22 Rush Yds – Got injured, but still frustrating.
2. Pierre Thomas – 37 Rush Yds, 1 Rec, 5 Yds – Didn't get injured, but equally as frustrating.
3. Rashard Mendenhall – 36 Rush Yds, 1 Rec, 5 Yds
4. Marion Barber – 26 Rush Yds, 3 Rec, 11 Yds
5. Darren McFadden – 11 Rush Yds

Bottom 5 Wide Receivers:

1. Marques Colston – 6 Rush Yds, 2 Rec, 17 Yds, 1 FL – So much for having a field day against the Rams.
2. Vincent Jackson – 1 Rec, 10 Yds – Didn't see this one coming…at all.
3. Santana Moss – 2 Rec, 8 Yds
4. Nate Burleson – 0 Rec
5. Miles Austin – 4 Rec, 20 Yds

Dishonorable Mention: Chad Ochocinco, Eddie Royal, and Hines Ward

Bottom 5 Tight Ends:

1. Vernon Davis – 3 Rec, 16 Yds – Just when you started to get excited…
2. Zach Miller – 1 Rec, 9 Yds
3. Brandon Pettigrew – 2 Rec, 23 Yds
4. Bo Scaife – 2 Rec, 16 Yds
5. Heath Miller – 4 Rec, 26 Yds

HacheMan · Nov 16, 2009

The Closer

[SIZE=+1]#5. Saints 28 Rams 23[/SIZE]

Beyond the Box Score

* Marc Bulger threw an interception in the first quarter while trying to hit Keenan Burton in the end zone. He now has as many interceptions as he does touchdowns and it seems like most of his turnovers come at critical times.

* Drew Brees was held to 95 yards in the first half and finished with a six-week low 233 passing yards. He threw a few excellent deep balls, but it's still disappointing that he wasn't able to carve up the lowly Rams.

* Reggie Bush exhibited a few of his signature leaps and cutback moves on the way to tallying a season-high 83 rushing yards. He also found the end zone twice, bumping his season-long total to six.

* The Saints turned the ball over three times Sunday afternoon and have 13 turnovers in their last four games. They're good enough to recover and nullify the mistakes, but those kind of miscues aren't as easily brushed over in the playoffs.

* The Saints are 9-0 for the first time in club history.

* The Rams, on the other hand, have dropped nine straight home games and sit 1-8 on the year.

Going Forward

* Steven Jackson reached the 100 yard plateau before halftime. He ran incredibly hard and the Saints often needed more than two defenders to yank him down. The Rams may not win another game this season, but S-Jax can be trusted to continue posting reliable fantasy numbers.

* Brandon Gibson didn't have an NFL catch heading into Sunday's action, but he caught three passes for 30 yards in the first half, tallied seven catches for 93 yards overall, and was targeted over 10 times throughout the game. He made a couple impressive plays after the catch and may be a gem in the not too distant future.

[SIZE=+1]#4. Chargers 31 Eagles 23[/SIZE]

Beyond the Box Score

* Before Brian Westbrook went down, LeSean McCoy wasn't even sniffing the field. The Eagles were apparently concerned about their pass blocking with Jason Peters out and don't trust the rookie in that area.

* Nothing was wrong with Vincent Jackson. He was only targeted three times, which is a little concerning because Sheldon Brown left with a hamstring injury. Expect the Bolts to get Jackson more involved next week.

* LaDainian Tomlinson had his best game of the season by far. He was pounding his chest and running with that confidence we used to see. Is he back? Let's see him do it again first.

* Don't overreact to Jason Avant's numbers. He's a possession receiver that happened to become unstoppable Sunday. He's still the fourth or fifth option on this team.

Going Forward

* The Eagles have completely abandoned the running game and it wasn't just because they fell behind in this one. They don't trust anyone to pick up a 3rd-and-one and their play-action fakes don't fool anyone. That could make for some big games for Donovan McNabb going forward.

* Brent Celek has a touchdown in three straight games and is a surefire TE1 the rest of the way. He was targeted 11 times.

* It would be a surprise if Brian Westbrook played again this season. He shouldn't have rushed back from his first concussion and now his career is in jeopardy. Look for the Eagles to pursue a free agent to mix in with LeSean McCoy.

* Malcom Floyd has been a dud since taking over as a starter. He's not getting the targets and should be left on benches until he shows us something.

[SIZE=+1]#3. Bengals 18 Steelers 12[/SIZE]

Beyond the Box Score

* Don't worry about Chad Ochocinco's ugly numbers. He was targeted seven times and ran some beautiful routes. The Bengals successfully grinded the game out and it hurt his chances.

* Rashard Mendenhall did not do anything to get in Mike Tomlin's doghouse. He protected the football and got as much as he could out of what little holes were there.

* Laveranues Coles led the Bengals in targets and was on the field for virtually every offensive play. There's not much upside here but he's going to get single coverage weekly.

* Maurice Purify was active as the No. 4 receiver instead of Jerome Simpson. But Purify didn't get a target.

Going Forward

* The Bengals are saying Cedric Benson will play through his hip flexor next week, but it's really hard to see him being 100 percent. He tried to come back in the game for one play and was dragging his right leg behind him.

* Bernard Scott can play. He's really quick to the edge and although he'll probably share time with Brian Leonard if Benson sits, Scott is worth an add.

* Santonio Holmes was targeted 14 times and he's re-asserting himself as the Steelers' No. 1 receiver. The big plays are coming.

* This Bengals defense is one to seriously avoid. Their secondary led by Leon Hall and Jonathan Joseph is really impressive and allows them to pressure the quarterback with six or seven guys often.

[SIZE=+1]#2. Jaguars 24 Jets 22[/SIZE]

Beyond the Box Score

* New York went for a naked bootleg deep ball on the first play of the game and Mark Sanchez had Jerricho Cotchery open, but under threw him and was picked off by Rashean Mathis. Sanchez went back to Cotchery on the sidelines a short time later and picked up a big gain on a ball that was nearly intercepted. He then hit Cotchery again in the red zone for a touchdown against Mathis.

* Maurice Jones-Drew carried the ball on each of Jacksonville's first five plays and totaled 55 yards, including a 33-yard touchdown to open the scoring. He's the first running back this season to top 100 yards against the Jets, and did so by midway through the third quarter. Jones-Drew also made the key block that sprung David Garrard for his 11-yard touchdown scamper.

* Mike Sims-Walker beat Lito Sheppard on a slant route for his 26-yard touchdown, but was more or less shut down in the second half after the Jets put Darrelle Revis on him.

* Quentin Groves made an incredibly athletic play on Sanchez's second interception, leaping at the line of scrimmage to snatch the pass. He had a clear path to the end zone for a pick-six, but stumbled without any contact and went down.

* Not only did Braylon Edwards fumble the ball away at the end of a brilliant 41-yard catch after being shut out in the first half, his drop on a two-point conversion proved huge. A catch would have put the Jets up three, but instead they led by only one and the Jaguars were able to win the game with a last-second field goal.

Going Forward

* Jones-Drew taking a knee at the one-yard line rather than going in for his second touchdown was similar to Brian Westbrook two years ago, except that the Jaguars weren't actually leading. Chip-shot field goals are rarely missed, but MJD and the Jaguars risked a bad snap or a block by not even attempting to punch it into the end zone. MJD also apologized to his fantasy owners afterward, although with 630 total yards and seven touchdowns in the past four games they can't stay made for long.

* Sanchez was the toast of New York following a 3-0 start, but since then the Jets have gone 1-5 while he's averaged just 175 yards per game and 6.5 yards per throw with a 5/10 TD/INT ratio.

* Thomas Jones remains the Jets' primary ball carrier, but spent a big chunk of the third quarter on the sidelines while Shonn Greene took snaps..

[SIZE=+1]#1. Colts 35 Patriots 34[/SIZE]

Beyond the Box Score

* Big stars made big plays in one of the season's most exciting games, but the final result ultimately came down to a coaching decision. With 2:08 remaining and the Patriots facing a 4th-and-2 on their own 28, coach Bill Belichick decided to try for the victory. The call shouldn't have come as a major surprise. We've come to expect wild decisions from the overly confident Pats. But it certainly didn't pan out.

* Peyton Manning's one-yard touchdown pass with 13 seconds left capped the victory for the Colts. Manning made an excellent throw, but Reggie Wayne's catch may have been even better. He runs superb routes and has an incredible field awareness.

* The Patriots made it a point to slow Dallas Clark and were mostly successful. That opened things up for Pierre Garcon, who could have had a monster day if he didn't drop several very catchable passes.

* Randy Moss racked up a season-high 179 receiving yards. He beat the Colts' secondary deep and short and also found pay dirt twice.

* Laurence Maroney was trusted with a goalline carry near the end of the third quarter and fumbled the ball away. It was a game-changing turnover and representative of the lack of progress Maroney has made as runner.

* The Colts have won eight consecutive regular season games. They were down 17 points late in the game but never gave up and have the makings of a Super Bowl contender.

Going Forward

* Tom Brady carved through the Colts' secondary all night, racking up 375 yards and three touchdowns. A lot of Indy's problems rest in their badly hobbled defensive secondary and that's a weakness that is sure to be exploited by other teams in future weeks.

* It was Brady's first loss when throwing three touchdowns in a game since November 7, 2005. He's had an exceptional year so far and seems to gain confidence every week.

* Joseph Addai scored two touchdowns, one by air and one by ground, despite missing a large chunk of the first half with a finger injury. He has a few capable backups that tend to receive a healthy amount of touches, but Addai is still very much a fantasy asset. He has four touchdowns in the Colts' last four games.

HacheMan · Nov 17, 2009

Six players who have disproved doubters

By Matt Pitzer, USA TODAY

Do you still think the Cincinnati Bengals are not very good? Are you holding on to the idea that Brett Favre is a beat-down, old quarterback who can no longer lead a team?
We are weeks past the point when you should have let go of those old feelings. Some fantasy owners still believe them, though, because admitting to ourselves that we originally were wrong is one of the hardest things to do. But holding on to ill-fated beliefs can be a drag on your team's performance.
Even now, with three weeks left in most fantasy regular seasons, some owners are not convinced about the strength they might have. But that is how you wind up with Ray Rice riding your bench behind Ryan Grant.

FANTASY JOE: Forsett and Snelling not the only picks of the week

And this week, with the end of the byes, you (hopefully) will have more difficult lineup decisions to make. A larger pool of players means more risk of leaving a bundle of points on the bench. You can't afford such mistakes as you scramble to get into playoff position.

Yet many owners question whether proven starters should be in their lineup. You would not have expected at the start of the season that the following group of players would be in that category. But they are, and you should think carefully about what follows before even considering putting them on the bench.
•Miles Austin, wide receiver, Dallas Cowboys: Quit trying to figure out if Austin should be in your lineup. The answer is an unequivocal yes, thanks to that string of six touchdowns in four games. He is worrying some people after 20 yards last week and five total catches the past two weeks. But Austin is the Cowboys' best threat to have a big game in any given week. You should think about sitting him only if Randy Moss and Andre Johnson are in front of him; in that case, make a trade.
•Brent Celek, tight end, Philadelphia Eagles: An unfamiliar name perhaps, Celek is having a standout season. He is on pace for close to 1,000 yards in a high-potential offense. The Eagles barely have been able to run all season and have no problem turning their passing game loose when necessary. Celek has scored three weeks in a row and has turned into one of his team's most reliable options.
•Rashard Mendenhall, running back, Pittsburgh Steelers: He is coming off an ugly 36-yard game against the Cincinnati Bengals, his worst since becoming the starter. But don't fret with games upcoming vs. the Kansas City Chiefs, the Baltimore Ravens and their weakened defense, the Oakland Raiders and the Cleveland Browns. Mendenhall has size, speed, opportunity and good goal-line potential.
•Sidney Rice, wide receiver, Minnesota Vikings: Even after an NFL-high 201 receiving yards in Week 10, some want a reason to sit Rice. Adrian Peterson gets the ball too much or the Vikings' receivers are all similar. But Rice has at least 136 yards in three of the past four games. It'd be great if he scored more, but you can't overlook the yards.
•Aaron Rodgers, quarterback, Green Bay Packers: The Packers have not had quite the season they hoped for, but that barely has slowed Rodgers. He has had at least two touchdowns in each of the past seven games with three combined TDs in four of them. His personal stats are helped by not having too much help around him, meaning Rodgers automatically goes in the lineup, win or lose — or until bad weather buries Green Bay.
•Mike Sims-Walker, wide receiver, Jacksonville Jaguars: The Jaguars finally came up with an unexpected big game on the road last week, which will help ease doubts about Sims-Walker. When he does well, he does really well. When he does anything at all, you get at least the 49 yards and one touchdown Sims-Walker had against the New York Jets. Don't be surprised when the Jaguars drop another ugly one on us somewhere down the line, but you need to keep Sims-Walker in the lineup.

HacheMan · Nov 17, 2009

Situational Disaster
This Browns offense is terrible. To ask a rookie to step onto that team and produce any kind of numbers is asking way too much. So before we call Mohamed Massaquoi and Brian Robiskie terrible draft picks, let's realize that if they were playing for the Colts or Eagles they very well might be putting up nice stats. We can also say with fair certainty that Massaquoi would be having a better season if Braylon Edwards was never traded, but that's a whole other story.

Of course, rookie receivers rarely have a big impact right away. We're looking for any signs of potential, any nuggets to nibble on for the future. Since last night's game was so painful to watch, let's take a step back and update the progress of the Top 5 rookie wideouts so far this season.

1. Austin Collie, Colts: Thanks to Anthony Gonzalez's injury, he's shown he can be an effective player in the slot. Or maybe Peyton Manning can make anyone effective in the slot. Either way, he's going to lead all rookies in catches.

2. Jeremy Maclin, Eagles: Another guy that benefited from an injury as Maclin's path was cleared when Kevin Curtis went down. He's now entrenched as the team's No. 2 receiver for years to come. Don't pay any attention to Jason Avant's game last week, he's really a third-down type.

3. Percy Harvin, Vikings: The Vikes are being careful not to overuse Harvin, but it's hard not to. He's proven he's more than a gadget player.

4. Mike Wallace, Steelers: He came into the year battling with Limas Sweed for snaps, but that wasn't even close. Wallace looks locked in as the No. 3 WR in this vertical offense for the foreseeable future.

5. Hakeem Nicks, Giants: Nicks is really impressive after the catch, but he's limited by the presence of Mario Manningham. Leave Nicks stashed until something happens between these two.

* Quick rant on Jerome Harrison. Not sure exactly why, but Harrison has been passed on the depth chart by rookie Chris Jennings. Harrison either really ticked someone off in the organization or the Browns just don't think he can play/pick up the blitz. It's worth noting that Harrison rushing 29 times for 121 yards and caught five passes for 31 yards in the Browns best offensive performance of the season -- a 23-20 loss to the Bengals in Week 4. Coach Eric Mangini has mentioned Harrison's struggles in blitz pickup before, but this seems more drastic than that.

Ravens vs. Browns quick hitters:
It's hard to judge Brady Quinn with this supporting cast, so maybe we should give him more time before we say he's not the answer. Let's just say it's not looking good right now. ... Joe Flacco's arm has been replaced with a rocket launcher. ... Have to feel bad for Josh Cribbs getting a concussion on a meaningless play at the end of the game. .. What more can we say about Ray Rice. He's just a monster in all formats.

Editor's Note: For early rankings, complete projections, and a host of other exclusive material for Week 11, head to Rotoworld's Season Pass.

NEWS OF THE DAY #2
Jay Glazer of FOX reported Monday that Michael Turner has the dreaded "high" ankle sprain. It looks like it's not as serious as that injury can be, but it's still very concerning. Expect Turner to miss at least two games. Hopefully if you own Turner you've had Jason Snelling handcuffed ever since that Dallas game when Snelling rushed for 68 yards on seven carries.

It remains to be seen how the carries will be distributed between Jerious Norwood and Snelling. The situation is complicated by the fact that Norwood (hip) hasn't practiced in a month. Expect Snelling to show enough with his opportunities to remain the feature back as long as Turner is out.

NEWS OF THE DAY #3
Keenan Burton (knee) is out for the season. On the surface, that doesn't seem like very big news. But it's at least a little exciting for people in deep leagues and keeper leagues because it means Brandon Gibson is moving into the No. 2 receiver role.

Gibson is a rookie with significant upside and led the Rams in targets last week. The Rams thought enough of Gibson to send Will Witherspoon to the Eagles for him earlier this year. We'll see what he's got over the next seven weeks.

NEWS OF THE DAY #4
Clinton Portis is still feeling the effects of his concussion and almost certainly won't be ready for Week 11. That means another start for Ladell Betts, but don't assume that he's the starter when Portis gets back. Coach Jim Zorn said Portis will not lose his job due to injury. At some point, though, Zorn has to see that using Betts in a significant role gives his team a better chance to win.

NEWS OF THE DAY #5
Chiefs coach Todd Haley said he's seen a change in Jamaal Charles over the last few weeks and expressed confidence in his new starting running back. Perhaps the change is just that Charles is better than Larry Johnson. There's something called speed that goes a long way in the NFL and Charles has it. Look for him to be the feature back the rest of the season.

Editor's Note: For early rankings, complete projections, and a host of other exclusive material for Week 11, head to Rotoworld's Season Pass.

INJURY QUICK SLANTS
Ronnie Brown (foot) is out for Thursday's game and there are reports he could miss much more than that. Ricky Williams becomes a very nice option. � Julius Jones (ribs, lung) is very unlikely to play this week. Justin Forsett will be the feature back. � Kyle Orton (ankle) is expected to start this week even though the Broncos aren't giving updates. � The Cowboys said that Marion Barber's thumb caused reduced snaps, but he's fine for this week. � Greg Jennings picked up a right knee contusion in Week 10 but is almost certain to start. � Jermichael Finley (knee) is finally expected to resume practicing this week. � Steve Smith's rib injury is not expected to limit him at all. � We're still a week away from any updates on Chris Cooley's ankle. � There was no update on Brian Westbrook Monday, but it's hard to see him returning before very late in the season. � Texans TE James Casey (knee) returned to practice on a limited basis and is an interesting name to watch as the team's best pass-catching tight end.

DEPTH CHART QUICK SLANTS
Knowshon Moreno started Sunday's loss ahead of Correll Buckhalter, who was benched after a first quarter fumble. Moreno is taking hold here. � Larry Johnson is expected to sign with the Bengals on Tuesday, but he's going to be active this week and Marvin Lewis says he's just insurance. Bernard Scott is a better option this week. � The Raiders are thinking about benching JaMarcus Russell in favor of Charlie Frye this week. Bruce Gradkowski is struggling with a hamstring injury. � The Bills admitted they are thinking about putting Trent Edwards back on the bench in favor of Ryan Fitzpatrick. � Cardinals coach Ken Whisenhunt indicated that he doesn't plan on changing much between Beanie Wells and Tim Hightower.

DEFENSE SPOT STARTS
Since the Browns and Lions play each other this week, our options are limited. Also, our usual targets like the Bucs, Raiders and Chiefs are playing teams that are already owned. Unfortunate scheduling for us streamers. So here are just two ideas for owners adding a new defense each week based on matchups:

PACKERS vs. 49ers - Green Bay's defense has a ton of momentum off of their dominant performance last week and gets Aaron Kampman (concussion) back.

COWBOYS vs. Redskins - Ladell Betts made this Redskins offense better, but that was at home against a reeling Broncos that looked worn down in the second half. The Cowboys are coming off a loss and will be ready to go.

POSITIONAL SPOT STARTS
Chris Wesseling will cover this topic from head-to-toe in his Waiver Wired column, but here are three guys that are worth a quick add:

RB Jason Snelling - Snelling is more talented that you probably think. He'll get at least two starts and quite possibly even more with Michael Turner (ankle) out.

RB Justin Forsett - The Seahawks didn't see him as much more than a third-down back before Julius Jones' rib injury. Now they're kicking themselves. He'll be featured while Jones heals.

WR Brandon Gibson - People in deep leagues and keeper leagues need to know about this guy. The Rams are desperate for someone to step up across from Donnie Avery and Gibson can play.

HacheMan · Nov 17, 2009

Running Back Wreckage

By late afternoon last Sunday, the backfield bloodbath had claimed at least five new victims. Here's a brief look at the tailback trauma as we head into Week 11:

Brian Westbrook suffered another concussion against the Chargers, leading coach Andy Reid to warn that "football is secondary in this situation." NFL Network's Steve Wyche reports speculation that Westbrook's career could be in jeopardy, and Scout.com's Adam Caplan says he wouldn't expect to see Westbrook "for several weeks, if at all" this season. His backup, LeSean McCoy, is owned in 93 percent of CBSSports.com leagues, so it's not an attractive waiver situation.

Ronnie Brown left the stadium on crutches Sunday night, and the Dolphins are reportedly "worried" about the foot injury sustained against the Bucs. Brown almost certainly will miss Thursday's game against the Panthers, and there's a possibility that he'll be sent to a specialist for further examination. This has the look of a multi-week injury, in which case Ricky Williams will have borderline RB1 value. Already owned in 99 percent of CBSSports.com leagues, Williams is not a waiver option this week.

Michael Turner has been diagnosed with a high ankle sprain after an awkward tackle against the Panthers on Sunday. While the Falcons are optimistic that the injury isn't as serious as most high ankle sprains, Turner figures to miss at least one game and likely a second. Change-of-pace back Jerious Norwood (hip) is expected back this week after missing five games, but Jason Snelling is the best fantasy bet in Atlanta. Owned in just 5 percent of all leagues, he tops our waiver list this week.

Julius Jones experienced bleeding in his lung after being hospitalized Sunday. Coach Jim Mora insists that Jones does not have a broken rib, though there is speculation that it's at least cracked. Mora admitted that Jones is unlikely to play in Week 11, and it's possible that he'll miss Week 12 as well. Donovan McNabb and Matt Hasselbeck each missed two games with a rib injury, and running back is a more physical position. Justin Forsett and Louis Rankin will handle backfield duties while Jones is out, though Forsett figures to see the bulk of the work. He's owned in just 21 percent of CBSSports.com leagues and runs a close second to Snelling on our list.

Cedric Benson suffered an "abductor strain" in Week 9 that limited him heading into the Steelers game. Benson tried to play through the injury in Pittsburgh, but he was clearly hobbled and had to be replaced by Bernard Scott and Brian Leonard. Both Benson and the Bengals insists that he has a chance to play this week, though coach Marvin Lewis is officially labeling him a "game-time decision" against the Raiders. Meanwhile, the Bengals signed Larry Johnson to act as fourth-string injury insurance. If Benson does miss this week's game, Scott figures to be the main fantasy beneficiary and should be picked up ahead of Johnson and Leonard. Scott is owned in just 5 percent of fantasy leagues.

Like Westbrook, there's concern that Clinton Portis' season could be in jeopardy due to the aftereffects of a concussion. While the Redskins are exercising extreme caution, coach Jim Zorn isn't willing to put more than a "week to week" timetable on Portis' status. Ladell Betts is coming off back-to-back strong performances and figures to remain the lead back for at least another game or two. If Betts was not owned in the majority (68 percent) of fantasy leagues, he would merit consideration as the top waiver add this week. The upcoming matchup against the Cowboys, however, makes him a weak RB2 for Week 11.

On to the lists. Here is how I rank the top players available at each position as we head into Week 11. Full writeups of each player are below.

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

Running Backs
1. Jason Snelling
2. Justin Forsett
3. Bernard Scott
4. Sammy Morris
5. Michael Bush
6. Larry Johnson

Wide Receivers
1. Donnie Avery
2. Brandon Gibson
3. Chris Chambers
4. Laveranues Coles
5. Davone Bess
6. Robert Meachem
7. Kenny Britt
8. Lance Long

Quarterbacks
1. Alex Smith
2. Vince Young
3. Josh Freeman
4. Marc Bulger
5. Matthew Stafford

Tight Ends
1. Tony Scheffler
2. Jermichael Finley
3. Fred Davis

Defenses
1. Bengals
2. Cardinals

Editor's Note:</I> Not happy with your fantasy teams? New weekly leagues are drafting every single day at Snapdraft. Draft your team during the week, even Sunday morning, and win cash by Tuesday. It's a great complement to your yearly leagues and rewards the most skilled fantasy players who know matchups and value.

</FONT+1>RUNNING BACKS

Jason Snelling, Falcons – Coach Mike Smith said Monday that the Falcons are "very confident" Michael Turner will play again in 2009. That's not exactly an optimistic statement on his chances of playing in the next couple of weeks. Injury guru Evan Silva believes Turner will miss two games and then be considered day to day from that point. While Jerious Norwood (hip) is expected to return this week, the versatile big-back Snelling will see the bulk of the work out of the backfield. Snelling can play all three downs and will see goal-line work while Norwood is likely to be used as a change-of-pace back. It's safe to expect at least flex value out of Snelling this week against the Giants, and he should be a solid RB2 versus the Bucs in Week 12.

Recommendation: Should be owned in all leagues

Justin Forsett, Seahawks – The Seattle offensive line is finally getting healthy, and they opened some huge holes against the Cardinals last week. Credit also goes to Forsett who showed an elusiveness previously missing in the Seahawks backfield this season. Indicating that he was "impressed" by Forsett's 123-yard effort, coach Jim Mora promised that the 5'8 former Cal star would be "carrying the ball a lot this week." Forsett can't expect a repeat against the Vikings' No. 6 run defense, so keep expectations low for Week 11. If Julius Jones' bruised lung keeps him out for more than one week, however, Forsett would have RB2 value against the Rams in Week 12.

Recommendation: Should be owned in 12-team leagues

Bernard Scott - Following an impressive Week 10 effort, coach Marvin Lewis indicated that he wants Scott's role to continue to increase. Cedric Benson is expected to be a game-time decision for the Raiders this week, making Scott a mandatory add for all Benson owners. While Scott would likely split touches with Brian Leonard in a spot-start, his big-play ability makes him the superior fantasy option. The former Abilene Christian star would enjoy favorable matchups against the Browns and Lions in Weeks 12 and 13 if Benson aggravates his strained hip flexor.

Recommendation: Should be owned in 12-team leagues

Sammy Morris, Patriots – Morris returned from his knee injury to practice last Friday, and he's expected to see game action this week against the Jets. Laurence Maroney's late-game fumble at the goal-line led directly to the Colts' shocking comeback, and it's possible that he'll land in the doghouse once again. While Morris will likely be eased back into action, it shouldn't take more than a week or two for Bill Belichick to lean on old reliable No. 34 in the backfield. Morris doesn't have a ton of fantasy upside, but he could have flex value down the stretch.

Recommendation: Should be owned in 12-team leagues

Michael Bush, Raiders – One of the few bright spots against the Chiefs, Bush led the Raiders with 119 yards on 14 carries. Running behind Robert Gallery, Bush ran downhill, got behind his pads, and trucked through the Kansas City defenders. His fantasy value is limited by the uncertainty in the Oakland backfield and upcoming matchups against the stout run defenses of the Bengals, Cowboys, and Steelers.

Recommendation: Worth a look in deeper leagues

Larry Johnson, Bengals – I didn't expect Johnson to find a home in free agency the rest of the way, but I forgot that the Bengals don't weigh character into personnel decisions. LJ has reportedly signed his contract with the Bengals, but coach Marvin Lewis indicated that he's nothing more than a fourth-stringer who will be a game-day inactive unless a serious injury strikes Cedric Benson or Bernard Scott. He remains a long shot for fantasy value. Pick up Scott instead.

Recommendation: Worth a look in deeper leagues

Long-Term Fliers

Jerious Norwood - Norwood is expected to return from a hip injury this week. While he'll likely be eased into a change-of-pace back role, he could see more of a timeshare in Weeks 12 and 13 if Michael Turner misses multiple games.

Louis Rankin - Rankin flashed some nifty moves on the ground and in the passing game last week. He'll work as the change of pace back with Justin Forsett until Julius Jones comes back.

Chris Jennings - The undrafted Arizona product is getting a long look from the coaching staff, but he's not likely to have fantasy value in Cleveland.

Cut Bait

LenDale White - No longer the goal-line back, White can't expect more than a handful of touches on a weekly basis.

Tashard Choice - Just four touches in each of the past two weeks.

Kolby Smith - Falling behind Jamaal Charles, as expected.



</FONT+1>WIDE RECEIVERS

Donnie Avery, Rams – In case you haven't noticed, the Rams have been awfully competitive in their past two games, which bodes well for their skill position players in the final two months. While PPR leaguers may prefer Brandon Gibson, Avery is the better homerun threat with more scoring potential. Neither Rams receiver is more than a weekly matchup play, but Avery's playmaking ability should earn him a roster spot in all 12-team leagues.

Recommendation: Should be owned in 12-team leagues

Brandon Gibson, Rams – Give the Rams scouts some credit here: they stole Laurent Robinson from the Falcons and targeted Gibson in the Will Witherspoon trade with the Eagles. Gibson, considered a first-day draft prospect before an injury plagued senior year, flashed potential as a pass-catcher and playmaker against the Saints. His nine targets, seven receptions, and 93 yards led the team, and he's earned the starting job opposite Donnie Avery for the rest of the season. "I think we found a really good receiver there," said Marc Bulger. He's a must-add in Dynasty leagues.

Recommendation: Worth a look in 12-team leagues

Chris Chambers, Chiefs – Chambers is pushing for a late-career revival in Kansas City, showing better than expected speed and making tough catches. Matt Cassel is beginning to show more trust in his receivers, throwing the ball down field more aggressively the past two weeks. While I'm still not bullish on Chambers' chances of making a huge fantasy splash, Dwayne Bowe's suspension makes him the de facto No. 1 receiver for four weeks.

Recommendation: Worth a look in 12-team leagues

Laveranues Coles, Bengals – Coles led the Bengals in targets and yardage last week while staying on the field virtually all game. Earning Carson Palmer's trust, he's now increased his production in four straight weeks. While he doesn't have a ton of fantasy upside, Coles is a viable WR3 option against the Browns, Lions, and Vikings in Weeks 12, 13, and 14.

Recommendation: Worth a look in 12-team leagues

Davone Bess, Dolphins – Bess led the Dolphins in targets and receptions for a second straight week, recording four catches for 72 yards against the Bucs in Week 10. He's established himself as the only legit option in the passing game and should be owned in PPR leagues. The Week 14 and 15 matchups against the Jags and Titans are particularly inviting. Just don't expect any touchdowns.

Recommendation: Should be owned in PPR leagues

Robert Meachem, Saints – The bad news is that Meachem was targeted just one time after his Week 9 breakout game against the Panthers. The good news is that Meachem converted the reception for a 27-yard touchdown while adding a 41-yard run against the Rams. While he's too risky to use as a starter right now, his talent in a high-flying offense makes him worthy of a roster stash.

Recommendation: Worth a look in deeper leagues

Kenny Britt, Titans – Justin Gage is expected to miss at least one more week with multiple fractures to transverse process bones in his back. Britt had a tough matchup against the Bills' second-ranked secondary last week, but he should have an easier time against the Texans' mediocre pass defense in Week 11. The rookie earned Vince Young's trust with an outstanding leaping grab on a 38-yard bomb last week, and he was targeted more than Nate Washington. With a big game this week, it's conceivable that Britt could hold onto the starting job the rest of the way.

Recommendation: Worth a look in deeper leagues

Lance Long - The Chiefs' slot receiver is in line for an uptick in targets following the Dwayne Bowe suspension. Even if he doesn't draw the start opposite Chris Chambers, he'll have more value than Mark Bradley or Bobby Wade. Long is worth consideration in deeper leagues and PPR formats.

Recommendation: Worth a look in PPR leagues

Long-Term Fliers

Muhsin Muhammad - Muhammad showed fresh legs after taking three weeks off to deal with a knee injury. Make him prove it for a second straight week before picking him up.

Maurice Stovall - Antonio Bryant's knee is clearly not right, forcing Stovall into the starting lineup. The second option in the passing game posted a 4-47-1 line in Week 10.

Devin Thomas - Last year's second-rounder is finally flashing playmaking ability, though he's only an option in deep leagues.

Cut Bait

Bernard Berrian - Unable to shake a nagging hamstring injury, Berrian is getting lost in the shuffle in the Vikings offense.

Malcom Floyd - A fantasy disappointment, Floyd is averaging just 4.6 points per week since entering the starting lineup.

James Jones - Jordy Nelson is back and already cutting into Jones' production.



</FONT+1>QUARTERBACKS

Alex Smith, 49ers – The Niners started their Week 10 matchup against the Bears featuring Michael Crabtree in a shotgun offense. Game momentum, however, dictated a philosophical change in the second half, and Smith began checking out of passes and into runs. There are strong indications, though, that the 49ers will continue to morph into a pass-heavy offense with Smith operating out of the shotgun. For those owners forced to play matchups at quarterback, Smith has inviting games against the Jags, Cardinals, and Lions in Weeks 12, 14, and 16.

Recommendation: Should be owned in 12-team leagues

Vince Young, Titans – Young is playing with a high level of confidence in his second stint as the Titans starter, completing 65.7 percent of his passes at 7.6 yards per attempt. The conservative passing offense has limited him to just 15.6 fantasy points per game in three starts, but Young's running ability and willingness to target Chris Johnson makes him worth carrying as a QB2. He's making a strong argument to keep the job going into 2010.

Recommendation: Worth a look in 12-team leagues

Josh Freeman, Bucs – Freeman is a physical freak showing a Big Ben-like ability to shed tacklers and extend plays with his size and athleticism. Also similar to Big Ben, he's shown outstanding poise while leading his team to impressive comeback attempts in the fourth quarter in each of the past two weeks. His average of 20.9 fantasy points in his first two starts would place him in the Top-12 among quarterbacks for the season. The rookie heads into a Week 11 matchup against a Saints defense missing both starters at cornerback.

Recommendation: Worth a look in 12-team leagues

Marc Bulger, Rams – The Rams are finally healthy on the offensive line, Steven Jackson is running like a man possessed, and Donnie Avery and Brandon Gibson have emerged as viable threats in the passing game. As long as Bulger can stay upright, he has a shot at QB2 production the rest of the way, starting with this week's matchup against a Cardinals defense that allows the ninth most fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks.

Recommendation: Worth a look in two-quarterback leagues

Matthew Stafford, Lions – Warning: this is only a desperation choice for deep leaguers. Stafford is taking an absolute pounding behind center, and Calvin Johnson is starting to show signs of being "Lion-ized" in Detroit as a team-wide malaise sets in. On a positive note, the Lions do have a winnable game at home this week against a putrid Browns team. If ever you were going to roll the dice with Stafford, this is your week.

Recommendation: Worth a look in two-quarterback leagues

Long-Term Fliers

Matt Leinart / Kevin Kolb - The bye weeks are over, so it's time for Kurt Warner and Donovan McNabb owners to handcuff their starting quarterbacks.

Jake Delhomme - Came out strong in a no-huddle attack against the Falcons. I need to see it again, but last week's results are encouraging.

Cut Bait

Trent Edwards - Edwards was pulled late in the game last week, and Dick Jauron indicating that he is considering another change at quarterback going into Week 11.

Shaun Hill - Word out of San Fran is that Hill doesn't figure into to the teams plans as a starting quarterback ever again. It's time to drop him even in Dynasty leagues.



</FONT+1>TIGHT ENDS

Tony Scheffler, Broncos – Sure, Scheffler has been far too inconsistent to rely on as a weekly fantasy option. His matchup this week, however, is a dream scenario against a San Diego defense he routinely dominates. Scheffler caught six passes for 101 yards and a touchdown in the previous matchup with the Chargers. For desperate Chris Cooley, Owen Daniels, and Zach Miller owners, Scheffler is worth using as a low-end TE1 this week.

Recommendation: Worth a look as a matchup play

Jermichael Finley, Packers – The Packers expect Finley (knee) to resume practicing this week, with an eyeing on returning to game action against a Lions defense that hasn't stopped tight ends all year. Even if he's too much of a gamble this week, the big-play threat is at least worth stashing as a high-upside backup for the final seven weeks.

Recommendation: Worth a look in 12-team leagues

Fred Davis, Redskins – The Redskins went to a short passing game last week in an attempt to offset their offensive line woes, and Davis benefited with four catches for 50 yards. He has a terrific matchup this week against a Philly defense surrendering the second-most fantasy points to opposing tight ends.

Recommendation: Worth a look as a matchup play

Long-Term Fliers

James Casey - Coach Gary Kubiak insists Casey will "become a big part of what we're doing over the next seven games." He's much more likely to become a fantasy factor than Joel Dreessen is. For those who prefer a high upside stash, Casey is your man.

David Thomas - Can he ascend to the Billy Miller role in New Orleans? The former Patriots third-rounder led the Saints with five receptions for 45 yards in Week 10.

Cut Bait

Brandon Pettigrew - Rookie is still too inconsistent and at least a year away from being a solid weekly contributor.

Gary Barnidge - Dante Rosario's return has pushed him out of the passing offense.

</FONT+1>DEFENSE/SPECIAL TEAMS

Bengals - The Bengals have become a viable weekly answer as the second stingiest defense in the NFL. Even better, they play the quarterback-less Raiders and Browns in Weeks 11 and 12 before hosting the hapless Lions in Week 13.

Recommendation: Should be owned in all leagues

Cardinals - Consider this a fantasy playoff special. The Cardinals draw the 49ers in Week 14, the Lions in Week 15, and the Rams in Week 16. No team has a better playoff schedule.

Recommendation: Worth picking up as a matchup play

HacheMan · Nov 18, 2009

D-Bo Knocked Out

Two weeks ago, the desperate Chiefs grabbed veteran Chris Chambers off waivers and paired him with Dwayne Bowe in hopes of jumpstarting an anemic aerial attack. Just as coach Todd Haley's beleaguered receiving corps was starting show tangible signs of progress, the Chiefs announced Tuesday that Bowe will be suspended four games for violating the league's policy on performance enhancing substances.

ESPN's Adam Schefter "gathers" that the suspension goes back to OTAs when Bowe, 30 pounds overweight, took a diuretic to drop the pounds expeditiously. The new coach "demoted Bowe, bullied him, disparaged him, embarrassed him" to get a message across to his most talented receiver as well as the rest of his team. Even after he lost the extra weight, a drop-prone Bowe remained in the doghouse throughout training camp and into the start of the regular season.

After cutting ties with franchise icons Tony Gonzalez and Larry Johnson, Bowe was one of the few remaining nucleus players on a talent-starved roster. Coming off one of his best games of the season in a win over the Raiders, the announcement comes at especially poor time for the 25-year-old receiver. Considering his rocky history with the no-nonsense duo of Haley and GM Scott Pioli, the Chiefs could "potentially look to part ways with Bowe in the offseason."

Bowe's suspension begins immediately and keeps him out until Week 15. As a potential asset during Week 16 championship games, he's worth carrying on fantasy rosters now that bye-week roster pressures are gone. In the meantime, Chambers has a shot at low-end WR3 value as the team's de facto No. 1 receiver. Slot receiver Lance Long, who led the team in targets and receptions in Week 9, will also see an increased role and is worth grabbing as a flier in PPR leagues.

Editor's Note: Check out our exclusive projections for all the players listed here in Rotoworld's Season Pass package, now 33% off. We've also got extra columns, IDP rankings, Top 200 rankings, Evan Silva's running back report, Chris Wesseling's Dynasty advice, advance workload and target data, exclusive chats, schedule analysis, and fantasy points allowed info you can only get with Season Pass.

Hours after NFL.com's Jason LaCanfora reported that Trent Edwards had lost his starting job to pop-gunned Ryan Fitzpatrick, the NFL insider broke the news that head coach Dick Jauron had been fired. Defensive coordinator Perry Fewell was named the interim head coach, and he plans to announce his starting quarterback for Week 11 on Wednesday. All bets are off now, so Buffalo's starter is anyone's guess until we receive word from the new boss.

Dolphins coach Tony Sparano revealed Tuesday that Ronnie Brown (foot) is out for Thursday's game against the Panthers, and possibly much longer. Brown went to see a foot specialist Wednesday, and the Dolphins are concerned that the injury is more than just an ankle sprain – as first reported. Brown is a good bet to miss multiple weeks with the injury. Meanwhile, Ricky Williams will start against Carolina, where he brings RB1 value as a 20-touch workhorse against a defense that allows the eighth most fantasy points to opposing running backs.

Editor's Note: Not happy with your fantasy teams? New weekly leagues are drafting every single day at Snapdraft. Draft your team during the week, even Sunday morning, and win cash by Tuesday. It's a great complement to your yearly leagues and rewards the most skilled fantasy players who know matchups and value.

Two-Minute Drill: The Bengals officially signed Larry Johnson, and coach Marvin Lewis indicated that he could suit up this week if Cedric Benson's hip injury keeps him out of the lineup. … Ravens released struggling K Steven Hauschka. Free agent Billy Cundiff is the clubhouse leader to replace him. … Coach Jim Mora indicated that RB Justin Forsett will be "carrying the ball a lot this week" with Julius Jones (rib, lung) out. … Cowboys coach Wade Phillips reiterated that he plans "to feature" Felix Jones more on offense. .. Texans activated RB Arian Foster from the practice squad. … Coach Gary Kubiak insists that rookie TE James Casey will "become a big part of what we're doing over the next seven games." … Chad Pennington (shoulder surgery) won't make a final decision on playing next season until March. If he does play, he's not expected to re-sign with Miami as a backup. … Despite speculation to the contrary, Dolphins coach Tony Sparano confirmed that OLB Joey Porter will play against the Panthers this week. … Braylon Edwards pleaded not guilty to a misdemeanor assault charge stemming from an incident outside a Cleveland nightclub last month.

Red Zone: Brian Westbrook is headed to Pittsburgh to be evaluated by a concussion specialist who will determine if and when he can continue to play football. … Cedric Benson (hip) admits he might miss this week's game at Oakland, but he says there's no doubt he'll be able to play the week after against the Browns. … Clinton Portis referred to his concussion as a "major situation" and said there's no need for him to "rush back" as long as Ladell Betts is playing well. … Eli Manning reiterated his plantar fasciitis is a non-issue as the Giants come out of their bye. … Browns KR Josh Cribbs (head) was released from the hospital Tuesday morning and has a chance to play this weekend. … Vikings CB Antoine Winfield is giving himself an 85 percent chance of playing this week. … Though Troy Polamalu is a long-shot to play this week, the Steelers are encouraged about his knee and are calling him "day to day." … Ravens OLB Terrell Suggs is expected to miss at least 2-3 weeks with a minor tear of his MCL. … Saints CB Tracy Porter has a sprained MCL and will miss 4-6 weeks.

HacheMan · Nov 18, 2009

Six players who have disproved doubters

By Matt Pitzer, USA TODAY
Do you still think the Cincinnati Bengals are not very good? Are you holding on to the idea that Brett Favre is a beat-down, old quarterback who can no longer lead a team?
We are weeks past the point when you should have let go of those old feelings. Some fantasy owners still believe them, though, because admitting to ourselves that we originally were wrong is one of the hardest things to do. But holding on to ill-fated beliefs can be a drag on your team's performance.
Even now, with three weeks left in most fantasy regular seasons, some owners are not convinced about the strength they might have. But that is how you wind up with Ray Rice riding your bench behind Ryan Grant.

FANTASY JOE: Forsett and Snelling not the only picks of the week

And this week, with the end of the byes, you (hopefully) will have more difficult lineup decisions to make. A larger pool of players means more risk of leaving a bundle of points on the bench. You can't afford such mistakes as you scramble to get into playoff position.

Yet many owners question whether proven starters should be in their lineup. You would not have expected at the start of the season that the following group of players would be in that category. But they are, and you should think carefully about what follows before even considering putting them on the bench.
•Miles Austin, wide receiver, Dallas Cowboys: Quit trying to figure out if Austin should be in your lineup. The answer is an unequivocal yes, thanks to that string of six touchdowns in four games. He is worrying some people after 20 yards last week and five total catches the past two weeks. But Austin is the Cowboys' best threat to have a big game in any given week. You should think about sitting him only if Randy Moss and Andre Johnson are in front of him; in that case, make a trade.
•Brent Celek, tight end, Philadelphia Eagles: An unfamiliar name perhaps, Celek is having a standout season. He is on pace for close to 1,000 yards in a high-potential offense. The Eagles barely have been able to run all season and have no problem turning their passing game loose when necessary. Celek has scored three weeks in a row and has turned into one of his team's most reliable options.
•Rashard Mendenhall, running back, Pittsburgh Steelers: He is coming off an ugly 36-yard game against the Cincinnati Bengals, his worst since becoming the starter. But don't fret with games upcoming vs. the Kansas City Chiefs, the Baltimore Ravens and their weakened defense, the Oakland Raiders and the Cleveland Browns. Mendenhall has size, speed, opportunity and good goal-line potential.
•Sidney Rice, wide receiver, Minnesota Vikings: Even after an NFL-high 201 receiving yards in Week 10, some want a reason to sit Rice. Adrian Peterson gets the ball too much or the Vikings' receivers are all similar. But Rice has at least 136 yards in three of the past four games. It'd be great if he scored more, but you can't overlook the yards.
•Aaron Rodgers, quarterback, Green Bay Packers: The Packers have not had quite the season they hoped for, but that barely has slowed Rodgers. He has had at least two touchdowns in each of the past seven games with three combined TDs in four of them. His personal stats are helped by not having too much help around him, meaning Rodgers automatically goes in the lineup, win or lose — or until bad weather buries Green Bay.
•Mike Sims-Walker, wide receiver, Jacksonville Jaguars: The Jaguars finally came up with an unexpected big game on the road last week, which will help ease doubts about Sims-Walker. When he does well, he does really well. When he does anything at all, you get at least the 49 yards and one touchdown Sims-Walker had against the New York Jets. Don't be surprised when the Jaguars drop another ugly one on us somewhere down the line, but you need to keep Sims-Walker in the lineup.

HacheMan · Nov 18, 2009

Week 11 Rankings
Thursday Night Football makes fantasy owners work a little harder. The weekly Season Pass rankings come out on Tuesday at noon, and we'll post the Goal Line Stand rankings on Wednesday. But that's just the start of the NFL week.

There's still a lot we don't know about some key risers in the rankings, like <A href="http://www.rotoworld.com/premium/slideshows/?id=20&sport=NFL" target=_new>Wesseling's waiver pickups Jason Snelling and Bernard Scott.</B>

If Jerious Norwood is able to play, Snelling is a mediocre flex option against a stout Giants rush defense. Scott could have a big day cleaning up for Cedric Benson, but he becomes a must-start if Benson is out of the lineup. The availability of Sammy Morris will also affect Laurence Maroney.

We know Ronnie Brown is out, so my man [URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=1312"]Ricky Williams[/URL] has to be in your lineup. (The man knows how to finish.) LeSean McCoy and Justin Forsett both have established roles and make solid options, especially in PPR leagues.

The rankings will continue to change dramatically each week, especially if injuries start to pile up. Just don't forget they can also change dramatically during the week too. This has been a season of remarkable health in key fantasy positions, so we're overdue from some upheaval.

[SIZE=+1]Week 11 Quarterbacks[/SIZE]

<TABLE 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>Drew Brees</TD><TD>at TB</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>2</TD><TD>Peyton Manning</TD><TD>at BAL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>3</TD><TD>Matt Schaub</TD><TD>vs. TEN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>4</TD><TD>Tom Brady</TD><TD>vs. NYJ</TD><TD></TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>5</TD><TD>Kurt Warner</TD><TD>at STL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>6</TD><TD>Ben Roethlisberger</TD><TD>at KC</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>7</TD><TD>Aaron Rodgers</TD><TD>vs. SF</TD><TD></TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>8</TD><TD>Philip Rivers</TD><TD>at DEN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>9</TD><TD>Donovan McNabb</TD><TD>at CHI</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>10</TD><TD>Brett Favre</TD><TD>vs. SEA</TD><TD></TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>11</TD><TD>Carson Palmer</TD><TD>at OAK</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>12</TD><TD>Tony Romo</TD><TD>vs. WAS</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>13</TD><TD>Jay Cutler</TD><TD>vs. PHI</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>14</TD><TD>Matt Hasselbeck</TD><TD>at MIN</TD><TD></TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>15</TD><TD>Eli Manning</TD><TD>vs. ATL</TD><TD>Probable(foot)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>16</TD><TD>Matt Ryan</TD><TD>at NYG</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>17</TD><TD>Joe Flacco</TD><TD>vs. IND</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>18</TD><TD>Vince Young</TD><TD>at HOU</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>19</TD><TD>David Garrard</TD><TD>vs. BUF</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>20</TD><TD>Kyle Orton</TD><TD>vs. SD</TD><TD>Questionable(ankle)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>21</TD><TD>Josh Freeman</TD><TD>vs. NO</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>22</TD><TD>[URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=3119"]Alex Smith[/URL]</TD><TD>at GB</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>23</TD><TD>Brady Quinn</TD><TD>at DET</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>24</TD><TD>Matthew Stafford</TD><TD>vs. CLE</TD><TD></TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>25</TD><TD>Marc Bulger</TD><TD>vs. ARZ</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>26</TD><TD>Chad Henne</TD><TD>at CAR</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>27</TD><TD>Jake Delhomme</TD><TD>vs. MIA</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>28</TD><TD>Matt Cassel</TD><TD>vs. PIT</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>29</TD><TD>Ryan Fitzpatrick</TD><TD>at JAC</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>30</TD><TD>Jason Campbell</TD><TD>at DAL</TD><TD></TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>31</TD><TD>Mark Sanchez</TD><TD>at NE</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>32</TD><TD>JaMarcus Russell</TD><TD>vs. CIN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

QB Notes: All notes will be added each Thursday, so check back then. A final update is done by Saturday afternoon. We put up the rankings a day early once Thursday Night Football starts because we love you all so much. And for the few folks out there that haven't checked out Season Pass yet, um, get on it! Tons of exlusive material every week, including our brand new rankings just for the fantasy playoffs. It's $4.99 for the rest of the season.

[SIZE=+1]Week 11 Running Backs[/SIZE]

<TABLE 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>[URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=4743"]Chris Johnson[/URL]</TD><TD>at HOU</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>2</TD><TD>Maurice Jones-Drew</TD><TD>vs. BUF</TD><TD>Probable(knee)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>3</TD><TD>[URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=4169"]Adrian Peterson[/URL]</TD><TD>vs. SEA</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>4</TD><TD>Ray Rice</TD><TD>vs. IND</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>5</TD><TD>Frank Gore</TD><TD>at GB</TD><TD>Probable(eye)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>6</TD><TD>[URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=1663"]Steven Jackson[/URL]</TD><TD>vs. ARZ</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>7</TD><TD>[URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=1312"]Ricky Williams[/URL]</TD><TD>at CAR</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>8</TD><TD>Rashard Mendenhall</TD><TD>at KC</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>9</TD><TD>DeAngelo Williams</TD><TD>vs. MIA</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>10</TD><TD>Pierre Thomas</TD><TD>at TB</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>11</TD><TD>Matt Forte</TD><TD>vs. PHI</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>12</TD><TD>Cedric Benson</TD><TD>at OAK</TD><TD>Sidelined(hip)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>13</TD><TD>Kevin Smith</TD><TD>vs. CLE</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>14</TD><TD>Marion Barber</TD><TD>vs. WAS</TD><TD>Probable(thumb)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>15</TD><TD>Ryan Grant</TD><TD>vs. SF</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>16</TD><TD>Thomas Jones</TD><TD>at NE</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>17</TD><TD>LeSean McCoy</TD><TD>at CHI</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>18</TD><TD>Brandon Jacobs</TD><TD>vs. ATL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>19</TD><TD>Chris Wells</TD><TD>at STL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>20</TD><TD>Marshawn Lynch</TD><TD>at JAC</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>21</TD><TD>LaDainian Tomlinson</TD><TD>at DEN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>22</TD><TD>Tim Hightower</TD><TD>at STL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>23</TD><TD>Knowshon Moreno</TD><TD>vs. SD</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>24</TD><TD>Justin Forsett</TD><TD>at MIN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>25</TD><TD>Ladell Betts</TD><TD>at DAL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>26</TD><TD>Joseph Addai</TD><TD>at BAL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>27</TD><TD>Jonathan Stewart</TD><TD>vs. MIA</TD><TD>Questionable(heel)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>28</TD><TD>Jason Snelling</TD><TD>at NYG</TD><TD>Questionable(hamstring)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>29</TD><TD>Bernard Scott</TD><TD>at OAK</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>30</TD><TD>Reggie Bush</TD><TD>at TB</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>31</TD><TD>Ahmad Bradshaw</TD><TD>vs. ATL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>32</TD><TD>Ryan Moats</TD><TD>vs. TEN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>33</TD><TD>Jamaal Charles</TD><TD>vs. PIT</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>34</TD><TD>Mike Bell</TD><TD>at TB</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>35</TD><TD>Laurence Maroney</TD><TD>vs. NYJ</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>36</TD><TD>Steve Slaton</TD><TD>vs. TEN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>37</TD><TD>Carnell Williams</TD><TD>vs. NO</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>38</TD><TD>Jamal Lewis</TD><TD>at DET</TD><TD>Questionable(ankle)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>39</TD><TD>Donald Brown</TD><TD>at BAL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>40</TD><TD>Fred Jackson</TD><TD>at JAC</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>41</TD><TD>Shonn Greene</TD><TD>at NE</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>42</TD><TD>Derrick Ward</TD><TD>vs. NO</TD><TD>Questionable(knee)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>43</TD><TD>Michael Bush</TD><TD>vs. CIN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>44</TD><TD>Felix Jones</TD><TD>vs. WAS</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>45</TD><TD>Darren Sproles</TD><TD>at DEN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>46</TD><TD>Darren McFadden</TD><TD>vs. CIN</TD><TD>Probable(knee)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>47</TD><TD>Correll Buckhalter</TD><TD>vs. SD</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>48</TD><TD>Tashard Choice</TD><TD>vs. WAS</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>49</TD><TD>Justin Fargas</TD><TD>vs. CIN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>50</TD><TD>Kolby Smith</TD><TD>vs. PIT</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>51</TD><TD>Chester Taylor</TD><TD>vs. SEA</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>52</TD><TD>Jerious Norwood</TD><TD>at NYG</TD><TD>Questionable(hip)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>53</TD><TD>Willis McGahee</TD><TD>vs. IND</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>54</TD><TD>Willie Parker</TD><TD>at KC</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>55</TD><TD>Maurice Morris</TD><TD>vs. CLE</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>56</TD><TD>LenDale White</TD><TD>at HOU</TD><TD>Probable(flu)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>57</TD><TD>Rashad Jennings</TD><TD>vs. BUF</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>58</TD><TD>Kevin Faulk</TD><TD>vs. NYJ</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>59</TD><TD>Ahman Green</TD><TD>vs. SF</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>60</TD><TD>[URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=5196"]Chris Brown[/URL]</TD><TD>vs. TEN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

[SIZE=+1]Week 11 Wide Receivers[/SIZE]

<TABLE 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>Larry Fitzgerald</TD><TD>at STL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>2</TD><TD>Andre Johnson</TD><TD>vs. TEN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>3</TD><TD>Reggie Wayne</TD><TD>at BAL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>4</TD><TD>Vincent Jackson</TD><TD>at DEN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>5</TD><TD>Randy Moss</TD><TD>vs. NYJ</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>6</TD><TD>Roddy White</TD><TD>at NYG</TD><TD></TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>7</TD><TD>Brandon Marshall</TD><TD>vs. SD</TD><TD></TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>8</TD><TD>Calvin Johnson</TD><TD>vs. CLE</TD><TD></TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>9</TD><TD>Marques Colston</TD><TD>at TB</TD><TD></TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>10</TD><TD>Wes Welker</TD><TD>vs. NYJ</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>11</TD><TD>DeSean Jackson</TD><TD>at CHI</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>12</TD><TD>Mike Sims-Walker</TD><TD>vs. BUF</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>13</TD><TD>Greg Jennings</TD><TD>vs. SF</TD><TD>Probable(knee)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>14</TD><TD>Chad Ochocinco</TD><TD>at OAK</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>15</TD><TD>Sidney Rice</TD><TD>vs. SEA</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>16</TD><TD>[URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=4227"]Steve Smith[/URL]</TD><TD>vs. MIA</TD><TD>Probable(ribs)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>17</TD><TD>Anquan Boldin</TD><TD>at STL</TD><TD></TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>18</TD><TD>Miles Austin</TD><TD>vs. WAS</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>19</TD><TD>Devin Hester</TD><TD>vs. PHI</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>20</TD><TD>[URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=4227"]Steve Smith[/URL]</TD><TD>vs. ATL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>21</TD><TD>Santonio Holmes</TD><TD>at KC</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>22</TD><TD>Hines Ward</TD><TD>at KC</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>23</TD><TD>Donald Driver</TD><TD>vs. SF</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>24</TD><TD>Jerricho Cotchery</TD><TD>at NE</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>25</TD><TD>Nate Burleson</TD><TD>at MIN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>26</TD><TD>T.J. Houshmandzadeh</TD><TD>at MIN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>27</TD><TD>Derrick Mason</TD><TD>vs. IND</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>28</TD><TD>Steve Breaston</TD><TD>at STL</TD><TD></TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>29</TD><TD>Kevin Walter</TD><TD>vs. TEN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>30</TD><TD>Lee Evans</TD><TD>at JAC</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>31</TD><TD>Percy Harvin</TD><TD>vs. SEA</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>32</TD><TD>Michael Crabtree</TD><TD>at GB</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>33</TD><TD>Braylon Edwards</TD><TD>at NE</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>34</TD><TD>[URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=35"]Roy Williams[/URL]</TD><TD>vs. WAS</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>35</TD><TD>Santana Moss</TD><TD>at DAL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>36</TD><TD>Hakeem Nicks</TD><TD>vs. ATL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>37</TD><TD>Malcom Floyd</TD><TD>at DEN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>38</TD><TD>Devery Henderson</TD><TD>at TB</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>39</TD><TD>Jeremy Maclin</TD><TD>at CHI</TD><TD>Probable(-)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>40</TD><TD>Donnie Avery</TD><TD>vs. ARZ</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>41</TD><TD>Austin Collie</TD><TD>at BAL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>42</TD><TD>Bernard Berrian</TD><TD>vs. SEA</TD><TD></TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>43</TD><TD>Pierre Garcon</TD><TD>at BAL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>44</TD><TD>Earl Bennett</TD><TD>vs. PHI</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>45</TD><TD>Chris Chambers</TD><TD>vs. PIT</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>46</TD><TD>Terrell Owens</TD><TD>at JAC</TD><TD></TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>47</TD><TD>Laveranues Coles</TD><TD>at OAK</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>48</TD><TD>Mario Manningham</TD><TD>vs. ATL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>49</TD><TD>Nate Washington</TD><TD>at HOU</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>50</TD><TD>Davone Bess</TD><TD>at CAR</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>51</TD><TD>Eddie Royal</TD><TD>vs. SD</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>52</TD><TD>Johnny Knox</TD><TD>vs. PHI</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>53</TD><TD>Patrick Crayton</TD><TD>vs. WAS</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>54</TD><TD>Mohamed Massaquoi</TD><TD>at DET</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>55</TD><TD>Josh Morgan</TD><TD>at GB</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>56</TD><TD>Andre Caldwell</TD><TD>at OAK</TD><TD></TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>57</TD><TD>Mike Wallace</TD><TD>at KC</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>58</TD><TD>Mark Clayton</TD><TD>vs. IND</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>59</TD><TD>Greg Camarillo</TD><TD>at CAR</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>60</TD><TD>James Jones</TD><TD>vs. SF</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>61</TD><TD>Lance Long</TD><TD>vs. PIT</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>62</TD><TD>Torry Holt</TD><TD>vs. BUF</TD><TD>- </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>


[SIZE=+1]Week 11 Tight Ends[/SIZE]

<TABLE 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>Dallas Clark</TD><TD>at BAL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>2</TD><TD>Antonio Gates</TD><TD>at DEN</TD><TD></TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>3</TD><TD>Vernon Davis</TD><TD>at GB</TD><TD></TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>4</TD><TD>Brent Celek</TD><TD>at CHI</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>5</TD><TD>Tony Gonzalez</TD><TD>at NYG</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>6</TD><TD>Kellen Winslow</TD><TD>vs. NO</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>7</TD><TD>Jason Witten</TD><TD>vs. WAS</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>8</TD><TD>Greg Olsen</TD><TD>vs. PHI</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>9</TD><TD>Jeremy Shockey</TD><TD>at TB</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>10</TD><TD>Heath Miller</TD><TD>at KC</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>11</TD><TD>Dustin Keller</TD><TD>at NE</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>12</TD><TD>Visanthe Shiancoe</TD><TD>vs. SEA</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>13</TD><TD>John Carlson</TD><TD>at MIN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>14</TD><TD>[URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=4158"]Zach Miller[/URL]</TD><TD>vs. CIN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>15</TD><TD>Jermichael Finley</TD><TD>vs. SF</TD><TD>Questionable(knee)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>16</TD><TD>Kevin Boss</TD><TD>vs. ATL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>17</TD><TD>Fred Davis</TD><TD>at DAL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>18</TD><TD>Brandon Pettigrew</TD><TD>vs. CLE</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>19</TD><TD>Marcedes Lewis</TD><TD>vs. BUF</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>20</TD><TD>James Casey</TD><TD>vs. TEN</TD><TD>Questionable(knee)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>21</TD><TD>Todd Heap</TD><TD>vs. IND</TD><TD>Questionable(ribs)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>22</TD><TD>Tony Scheffler</TD><TD>vs. SD</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>23</TD><TD>Ben Watson</TD><TD>vs. NYJ</TD><TD></TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>24</TD><TD>Bo Scaife</TD><TD>at HOU</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>25</TD><TD>Randy McMichael</TD><TD>vs. ARZ</TD><TD>- </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

[SIZE=+1]Week 11 Team Defense[/SIZE]

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

[SIZE=+1]Week 11 Kickers[/SIZE]

<TABLE 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 Carney</TD><TD>at TB</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>2</TD><TD>Ryan Longwell</TD><TD>vs. SEA</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>3</TD><TD>David Akers</TD><TD>at CHI</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>4</TD><TD>Lawrence Tynes</TD><TD>vs. ATL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>5</TD><TD>Nate Kaeding</TD><TD>at DEN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>6</TD><TD>Stephen Gostkowski</TD><TD>vs. NYJ</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>7</TD><TD>Matt Stover</TD><TD>at BAL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>8</TD><TD>Nick Folk</TD><TD>vs. WAS</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>9</TD><TD>Kris Brown</TD><TD>vs. TEN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>10</TD><TD>Rob Bironas</TD><TD>at HOU</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>11</TD><TD>Dan Carpenter</TD><TD>at CAR</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>12</TD><TD>Jeff Reed</TD><TD>at KC</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>13</TD><TD>Mason Crosby</TD><TD>vs. SF</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>14</TD><TD>Josh Scobee</TD><TD>vs. BUF</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>15</TD><TD>Matt Prater</TD><TD>vs. SD</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>16</TD><TD>Neil Rackers</TD><TD>at STL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>17</TD><TD>Robbie Gould</TD><TD>vs. PHI</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>18</TD><TD>Connor Barth</TD><TD>vs. NO</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>19</TD><TD>Shayne Graham</TD><TD>at OAK</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>20</TD><TD>Olindo Mare</TD><TD>at MIN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>21</TD><TD>Shaun Suisham</TD><TD>at DAL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>22</TD><TD>Joe Nedney</TD><TD>at GB</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>23</TD><TD>Ryan Succop</TD><TD>vs. PIT</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>24</TD><TD>Billy Cundiff</TD><TD>vs. IND</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>25</TD><TD>Jason Elam</TD><TD>at NYG</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>26</TD><TD>Jay Feely</TD><TD>at NE</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>27</TD><TD>Rian Lindell</TD><TD>at JAC</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>28</TD><TD>Sebastian Janikowski</TD><TD>vs. CIN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>29</TD><TD>Josh Brown</TD><TD>vs. ARZ</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>30</TD><TD>Phil Dawson</TD><TD>at DET</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>31</TD><TD>John Kasay</TD><TD>vs. MIA</TD><TD>Probable(groin)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>32</TD><TD>Jason Hanson</TD><TD>vs. CLE</TD><TD>- </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>