BYE WEEK: Buffalo, Kansas City, Pittsburgh, Tennessee
QB – Peyton Manning, Drew Brees, Tony Romo, Donovan McNabb, Jay Cutler, Kurt Warner
INJURY WATCH: Aaron Rodgers(GB), Carson Palmer(CIN), Matt Hasselbeck(SEA), Matt Schaub(HOU), Jon Kitna(DET), Brian Griese(TB), Gus Frerotte(MIN)
Start
Brett Favre(NYJ) – Okay, so I doubt Favre will throw for six touchdown passes this week, but anything is possible with him. Still, he needs to be in your lineup this week against Cincinnati. While the Bengals haven’t been terrible against the pass, they’re still very young and vulnerable. The Jets have had two full weeks to prepare for this game and they are at home, two things that will be a key ingredient in their success this week. 17 of 28 275yrds, 2 TD’s
Jason Campbell(WAS) – I’m gonna go out on a limb with this one and say that Campbell continues his efficient fantasy scoring this week. This will be a run first offense and St. Louis will prepare to slow that down. With constant safety help being moved into the box, Campbell will find one-on-one coverage all day, and his receivers know how to get open and make plays. You should also see a couple of deep balls thrown off the play-action and some scoring as the result. 16 of 22 250yrds, 2 TD’s, 20yrds rush
Sit
Philip Rivers(SD) – While Rivers started the season very strong, there’s been a drop-off with each passing week in his performance. Attribute that to what you will, but I don’t see things getting better. Tomlinson, Gates, and Chambers are all ####ed up, leaving Rivers with Sproles and Vincent Jackson maybe? That doesn’t seem like it’s going to be enough to be successful against a Patriots defense that is looking to redeem its past two pitiful outings. 13 of 25 175yrds, 1 TD, 1 INT, 1 FUM
Derek Anderson(CLE) – Hopefully Anderson used the BYE week to get better prepared and work out the timing issues with his receivers. The thing holding the Browns back is coaching, lets be honest. The Browns will struggle as long as Romeo remains. This week, Anderson will struggle against a Giants defense that is second in scoring defense in the league. You should be able to find a better quarterback this week. 200yrds, 1 TD, 2 INT, 1 FUM
RB – LaDanian Tomlinson, Adrian Peterson, Brian Westbrook, Steven Jackson, Clinton Portis, Frank Gore, Marion Barber, Reggie Bush, Michael Turner, Ronnie Brown
INJURY WATCH: LaDanian Tomlinson(SD), Brian Westbrook(PHI), Willis Mcgahee(BAL), Darren McFadden(OAK), Maurice Jones-Drew(JAC), Chris Perry (CIN), Justin Fargas(OAK), Ahman Green(HOU), Laurence Maroney(NEP), Lamont Jordan(NEP), Maurice Morris(SEA)
Start
Brandon Jacobs(NYG) – Jacobs seems to only be playing one half of his games, but still managing to rack up monster numbers. Expect similar things this Monday Night as Jacobs travels to Cleveland to face the beleaguered Browns. Again, he may only play a little into the second half due to the RB depth of the Giants, but look for numbers regardless as the Giants pound away at the weak Cleveland front seven. 125yrds, 2 TD’s, 2 for 10yrds
Ryan Grant(GB) – I think this is the week Grant finally gets things going. I don’t anticipate the Pack being down or out of this one at any point and they need to get the run game established to pose a more balanced threat to opposing defenses. One dimensional teams, what the Packers have been to this point, usually don’t go far, and I think that’s shown through the first five weeks. 100yrds, 1 TD, 2 for 15yrds
Sit
Joseph Addai(IND) – Difficult to sit a Top 7 draft pick, but let’s be realistic, the Colts play the Ravens this week and the game plan will be to attack through the air. While Addai may catch a bunch of passes, the Raven defense will limit the featured back in this one. Some key RB’s are on BYE this week, so play Addai if you must, but don’t expect numbers better than what a #3 RB would produce. 30-40yrds, 5 for 30-40yrds, 1 FUM
DeAngelo Williams(CAR) – Yes, he lead all players in fantasy points last week and the Carolina offense seems to be firing on all cylinders, but it’s all more the reason to sit him this week. Tampa Bay’s defense is built to handle smaller, quicker backs and Williams fits that mold to a T. I think Carolina’s other back will shine this week, so curb your expectation for Williams. 55yrds, 3 for 20yrds
WR – Brandon Marshall, Terrell Owens, Reggie Wayne, Larry Fitzgerald, Greg Jennings, Calvin Johnson, Steve Smith(CAR), T.J. Houshmanzedah, Andre Johnson, Plaxico Burress
INJURY WATCH: Marques Colston(NO), Anquan Boldin(ARI), Roy Williams(DET), Calvin Johnson(DET), Derrick Mason(BAL), Deion Branch(SEA), Eddie Royal(DEN), Anthony Gonzalez(IND), Javon Walker(OAK), Kevin Curtis(PHI), Jerry Porter(JAC), Reggie Williams(JAC), Joey Galloway(TBB), Sidney Rice(MIN), Darrell Jackson(DEN), Donte Stallworth(CLE), Devin Hester(CHI), Brandon Lloyd(CHI), David Patten(NO)
Start
Santana Moss(WAS) – Though Moss was shutout last week, he continues to be an integral part of the Washington offense. I expect him to bounce back this week against the Rams. Although the Skins will pound the ball with Portis, Moss has the ability to get open anywhere on the field to make plays, including the deep ball that might fly his why once or twice this week. 6 for 115yrds, 1 TD
Bobby Engram(SEA) – Engram played his first game of the season and produced nicely for being out for such a long time. He’s been Hasselbeck’s main target for the past couple of seasons and that’s not something that’s gonna change considering there’s nobody left on the team to throw to, possibly even Deion Branch who suffered another injury. I expect Engram to be the go to guy this week as Seattle could struggle to move the ball on the ground and may end up in a shootout. And let’s face it, they want to throw the ball anyway. 6 for 100yrds, 1 TD
Sit
Torry Holt(STL) – Holt will not benefit from the coaching change and it’s unfortunate. There’s even rumors flying that he’ll be traded and that might be the best thing for him right now. Considering that teams only have to worry about Steven Jackson for about the first quarter and half, Holt is the only other player that can really hurt defenses, so guess where the coverage constantly rolls. Washington will have Bulger scrambling for his life all day, and Holt will be left running routes without much purpose, ouch. 4 for 50yrds
Chad Ocho Cinco #85(CIN) – The Jets defense has been very underrated so far this season and I think that will hurt the Cincinnati offense, especially #85. He hasn’t really done much so far this season, his longest catch barley touching 25yrds. The Bengals should deplore much more o####round game this week with Benson, limiting passes down field. When they do drop back to pass, the offensive line hasn’t been much more than paper mache’, and that spells trouble for an ailing quarterback and his receivers. 5 for 50yrds
TE – Jason Witten, Antonio Gates, Kellen Winslow, Chris Cooley
INJURY WATCH: Antonio Gates(SD), Kellen Winslow(CLE), Tony Scheffler(DEN), Jeremy Shockey(NO), L.J. Smith(PHI), Randy McMichael(STL), Ben Watson(NEP), Leonard Pope(ARI)
Start
Greg Olsen(CHI) – Olsen has clearly passed Desmond Clark on the depth chart, and his recent numbers confirm it. The Chicago receivers are ####ed up and inconsistent, leaving Olsen a reliable option for Orton underneath and in the flats. Chicago likes to throw to the backs and tight-ends when they get near the red-zone and the field shrinks. Olsen should be a strong performer against Atlanta this week. 60yrds, 1 TD
K – Nick Folk, Mason Crosby, Stephen Gostkowski, Adam Vinatieri, Nate Kaeding, David Akers, Robbie Gould
INJURY WATCH: Stephen Gostkowski(NEP), Lawrence Tynes(NYG), Mike Nugent(NYJ)
Start
Josh Scobee(JAC) – I think the Jaguars will be able to move the ball consistently against the Denver defense, but may have trouble scoring touchdowns. Scobee has the power to convert 50yrd field goals and the thin air of the Mile-High should afford him at least one opportunity for such. Jacksonville will be desperate, but I think they’ll take their chances at points this week rather than passing up opportunities like they did last week. 4 FG’s, 2 XP’s
DEF – Vikings, Bears, Ravens, Eagles, Giants
INJURY WATCH:Baltimore (Kelly Gregg-NT, Samari Rolle-CB), Minnesota (Erin Henderson-LB, Madieu Williams-S), Chicago (Charles Tillman-CB, Nathan Vasher-CB), Tampa Bay (Derrick Brooks-LB, Barrett Ruud-LB), Indianapolis (Bob Sanders-SS, Dwight Freeney-DE), Green Bay (Al Harris-CB, Charles Woodson-CB), Dallas (Terence Newman-CB, Tank Williams-DT), Jacksonville (Reggie Nelson-S, Drayton Florence-CB), Washington (Jason Taylor-DE, Shawn Springs-CB), Arizona (Bertrand Berry-DE, Eric Green-CB),
Start
Washington Redskins – Call me crazy, but given the way the Redskins have performed against the high powered offenses of Dallas and Philly, St. Louis should be a push over. The Rams offensive line is suspect at best, so once Steven Jackson is contained and the Skins move out to a big lead, there will be a lot of pressure on the QB as the Rams try to play catch up. That will lead to the inevitable turnovers and sacks that the Rams seem to be so generous with. <300 YA, <17 PA, 5 sacks, 2 INT’s, 1 FUM
(2)New York Giants (4-0). Last: WON 44-6 vs. Seattle Seahawks. Next: @ Cleveland (1-3) (Monday Night). I think the Giants sent a little message to Mr. Burress this week. It probably read something like, “Hey if we’re not important enough to help you, we don’t need you to help us. Get on the bus or we’ll leave you standing at your stop.” Okay, it probably wasn’t anything like that, but you get the point. The Giants look good no matter who’s in there. Other teams should make a note of that.
(3)Dallas Cowboys (4-1). Last: WON 31-22 vs. Cincinnati Bengals. Next: @ Arizona (2-2). Is it me or does it seem like Dallas plays every game at home? Yes I know it only seems that way, whatever. I’m wondering when Dallas will play a better team again. Not this week, as they head to Arizona to play the Jeckel-and-Hyde Cardinals. We’ll see which Cardinals team shows up, but me thinks it will be the team that gives up 35pts early and scrambles to try and recover late when the game’s already over. ####-hum.
(4)Tennessee Titans (5-0). Last: WON 16-13 @ Baltimore Ravens. Next: BYE. You want to talk about an ugly game, man this one was bad. Sure the defenses are great and that was the focal point of the game, but it showed that the Titans are for real when you can win on the road against such a strong defense. Vince Young should be ready to return after this weeks BYE, but I think Tennessee sticks with Collins until things go south. Also, It’s nice to see Alge Crumpler finally get some action, where’s he been all season?
(5)Pittsburgh Steelers (4-1). Last: WON 26-21 @ Jacksonville Jaguars. Next: BYE. The Steelers finally won a game they weren’t supposed to win. They needed this one bad, because after their BYE this week they play Cincinnati then the schedule gets brutal, with games against Washington, Dallas, Indianapolis, San Diego, and New England, are you kidding me!?! The good news is, they should be closed to fully healed after getting this week off, and boy did they need it.
(7)Carolina Panthers (4-1). Last: WON 34-0 vs. Kansas City Chiefs. Next: @ Tampa Bay (3-2). Carolina continues to win in impressive fashion, albeit was against the hapless Chiefs this week, but it’s still impressive when you shut out another team. First place in the NFC South is up for grabs this week when the Panthers travel to Tampa Bay. I’m wondering which Tampa offense will show up this week and which Carolina run defense will do the same. That should be the determiner in this one.
(9)Denver Broncos (4-1). Last: WON 16-13 vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Next: vs. Jacksonville (2-3). Denver was surprising this past week in how well the run defense played. That ultimately was the winning factor in that game and good thing, because the offense struggled to do anything, scoring one touchdown. They’ll be tested again this week when they travel to Jacksonville; a team that is desperate for a win in the conference to keep pace in the playoff race. Denver should be able to move the ball through the air and I look for Brandon Marshall to get things going after a down week.
(1)Buffalo Bills (4-1). Last: LOST 17-41 @ Arizona Cardinals. Next: BYE. The fall from the top is a mighty one, but can you blame me, that was a terrible performance from the Bills. Okay, do Edwards was knocked out of the game early, but he doesn’t play on the defense. You’d think the Bills would follow what the Jets did last week on offense, but I suppose the cardinals made the adjustments necessary to handle that. A well deserved rest will do any team good and the Bills will welcome the time off. However, that’s a long time to dwell on such a smack down.
(16)Washington Redskins (4-1). Last: WON 23-17 @ Philadelphia Eagles. Next: vs. St. Louis (0-4). As promised, the Redskins skyrocket up the ranks this week with another strong divisional road win. The defense has been fantastic through this stretch of victories and the offense has been efficient, finding different ways to beat teams. They get a nice home game against the Rams this week and I expect the Skins to continue to fire on all cylinders with a heavy dose of Portis and a smothering defensive game plan.
(11)Indianapolis Colts (2-2). Last: WON 31-27 @ Houston Texans. Next: vs. Baltimore (2-2). Give the Colts credit, they’ve found ways to win games they have no business even being in. Case in point this past week when the Texans basically just handed them the game in the fourth quarter. I don’t think the better teams they will have to play coming up will be so generous, Baltimore this week being one of them. The Colts better fix things quick because games against the Packers, Titans, Patriots, and Steelers follow this one. Ouch.
(6)Philadelphia Eagles (2-3). Last: LOST 17-23 vs. Washington Redskins. Next: @ San Francisco (2-3). I feel divided by the Eagles ups and downs threw the first five games of the season. One week they look unbeatable, the next they look like a sub-five hundred team with no chemistry or desire. Brian Westbrook’s injuries may have something to do with that, but he’s merely one player on a 53 man roster. How will his ribs hold up this week against those 49er linebackers? I don’t want to say that’s the deciding factor, but will it be?
(14)New England Patriots (3-1). Last: WON 30-21 @ San Francisco 49ers. Next: @ San Diego (2-3) (Sunday Night). Okay, we finally get to see how the Patriots will fare against a good team. They’ve decided to stay on the West Coast this week, traveling south to San Diego after playing in San Francisco this past week. There’s mixed opinions on this strategy. There’s a saying about idle hands and the Patriots will not the normalcy and familiarity of preparing for a game, the time off, the travel and so on. We’ll see how that affects the team’s performance. Not having to face L.T. might be a bigger factor though.
(15)Chicago Bears (3-2). Last: WON 37-7 @ Detroit Lions. Next: @ Atlanta (3-2). So the Bears easily dispatched the Lions this past week, but who hasn’t. Hey, I’m not a hater, I’m just saying. The defense will be pressed to shut down Mr. Turner, something that other teams have had trouble with so far this year. You know the Falcons will be pumped up for this one, so we’ll see if the Bears can match that intensity. Kyle Orton’s consistency will be counted on again this week, and I have a feeling he’ll deliver.
(8)Green Bay Packers (2-3). Last: LOST 24-27 vs. Atlanta Falcons. Next: @ Seattle (1-3). The Packers started strong and have now dropped a bunch of games. I thought it might have been Aaron Rodgers this past week, but now I’m putting things on the defense. I know there’ve been a lot of injuries, but that the nature of the game. Other teams are dealing with the same issues but are maintaining the same level of play from their backups. It’s time for this defense to step up and make some plays. The secondary will need to contain Seattle’s passing attack, which will be in full force this week with the return of Engram and possibly Branch.
(10)San Diego Chargers (2-3). Last: LOST 10-17 @ Miami Dolphins. Next: vs. New England (3-1) (Sunday Night). How often do you see L.T. get stuffed at the goal line? Not that often. In fact, I don’t think I remember the last time it happened. He’s obviously hurt, and that’s okay, so is everyone else. But if you can’t play or your play is going to limit the team, you should pull yourself out of the game. I know, easier said than done with these guys, but you have to put pride on the side. So New England comes to town this week and the Chargers need this game.
(12)New Orleans Saints (2-3). Last: LOST 27-30 vs. Minnesota Vikings. Next: vs. Oakland (1-3). I’m getting really tired of the Saints. Please, get your team on the same damn page and win these games. I’m sure the Saints are tired of their kicker not winning games for them. Will we see a new kicker this week; the answer is yes, with Martin Gramatica hitting the IR. Drew Brees can only take this team so far. Other people need to step things up. This team is quickly becoming the most under performing unit in the league.
(13)Tampa Bay Buccaneers (3-2). Last: LOST 13-16 @ Denver Broncos. Next: vs. Carolina (4-1). I’m not sure how Tampa Bay didn’t beat Denver this past week. Or wait a minute, maybe I do know. This whole running back by committee thing is hurting Tampa’s offense. Earnest Graham is the kind of runner that gets into a rhythm, getting better as he gets more carries. When he gets subbed out for Warrick Dunn, he loses his rhythm and doesn’t perform as well. Yes, I know Dunn is producing, but he’s not the answer. John Gruden is supposed to be this offensive mastermind, really? I haven’t seen it this year. Give the ball to Graham 25 times a game!
Dropped Out: NA
On the Verge: Atlanta (3-2), Miami (2-2)
Bottom Feeders: 32.Detroit Lions, 31. St. Louis Rams, 30. Cincinnati Bengals
Week 5 fell nicely in line for the NFL with nearly all of the favored teams handling their business with one big exception, the San Diego Chargers. But who knows, maybe Miami is ready to turn things around and make a run at the playoffs. Given the state of the AFC, anything’s possible. The NFC looks mostly like people thought it would less the Packers and the Saints. Still, the door is wide open for a lot of teams to sneak into the playoffs. And to the NFL, all of these things are GOOD and BAD.
GOOD
The Steelers finally got one over on the Jaguars and everyone in Pittsburgh rejoiced as our team is 4-1 heading into their BYE week, thank god. Pittsburgh won with defense and timely offense as they dominated the Jaguars in the first half, out-gaining them 300yrds to 46yrds. That is the point where a team changes their game-plan to adjust to what the other is doing. You’d think the Jaguars went into half and made some unbelievable adjustments… but you’d be wrong. The Steelers actually adjusted their game-plan, became much more conservative, and let Jacksonville back into the game. Why would they do this, because the Steelers offensive coordinator sucks. It’s been obvious through the first 5 games that he has no idea how to make the right adjustments and will fall into an extremely conservative offense if Pittsburgh commits a turnover early. Here’s one prime example of what I’m talking about.
During the first half the Steelers came out and threw on first down, gaining 4 to 6 yards each play and setting up second downs that could be runs or passes. This was very successful and the Steelers moved the ball at will, minus Santonio Holmes slipping and Jacksonville returning one for a TD. In the second half, the Steelers ran on first down and got zero yards. Now it’s second down and the defense knows what you have to do. The Steelers had two possessions in the third quarter gained about ten total yards on six plays, yuck. Guess what they did in the fourth quarter once they were down again? That’s right, they threw on first down.
BAD
I’m going to stay with the Steelers for the first segment of BAD this week and comment on something that happened late in the game. Jacksonville was deep in their zone and Garrard dropped back to pass, let me fly incomplete and was drilled James Harrison just as the ball was released. Amazingly, the ref called a roughing the passer on Pittsburgh. I was livid when I watched the replay and saw that the pass and the hit occurred simultaneously, with Harrison having no chance to pull up. This kept the drive alive for Jacksonville. It was almost like the refs wanted to keep the game going and Jacksonville every opportunity to win. For all of the cheap shots that Ben Roethlisberger receives with the defense never getting penalized, I can’t imagine how that was called.
The New Orleans Saints lost again when their field goal kicker failed to convert late in the game, giving the Vikings good field position. One pass interference call later and Minnesota is kicking the game winner. This is now the second time this season that Gramatica has missed a kick to give the Saints at least a chance to stay alive. The other occurred in Denver and would have been for the win. Who knows what would have happened had he made the kick Monday Night, but that’s two games lost. I think it’s time for a new kicker.
Fantasy Note
A very disappointing loss this week to the top rated team in my league. I had every chance to win the game and looked good going into the Monday Night game down only 11pts, but Drew Brees committed 3 turnovers for me, Reggie Bush returned 2 punts for him, and that was that, a 116 to 103 loss. It also didn’t help that Calvin Johnson grabbed a whole 2 points this week. Earnest Graham and Jonathan Stewart both had great match-ups and managed to score 12 points between them. Wow, what are you gonna do. I still sit atop my division at 3-2 and play a divisional game this week against the (1-3) Favre Hater Bandwagon.
QB – Peyton Manning, Drew Brees, Tony Romo, Ben Roethlisberger, Donovan McNabb, Jay Cutler
INJURY WATCH: Ben Roethlisberger(PIT), Donovan McNabb(PHI), Aaron Rodgers(GB), Carson Palmer(CIN), Jon Kitna(DET), Gus Frerotte(MIN), Vince Young(TEN)
Start
Matt Cassel (NEP) – Anytime the Patriots are coming off a BYE and they’re playing a questionable defense, you should pounce, like this week when they play the 49ers. I think Bellichik has his players prepared and rested up for this one and you should see according results. They also have this guy Moss to throw to. I hear he’s open. 250yrds, 2 TD’s, 3 for 25yrds
David Garrard (JAC) – He’s affectionately known as the Steeler killer around these parts. While I don’t think Jacksonville wins this game, I do believe Garrard finds the open space in the zone and connects with his receivers on short and intermediate routes. The run game will struggle despite its past success, and that will leave Garrard as the playmaker in this one. 225yrds, 1 TD, 5 for 40yrds, 1 TD
Sit
Matt Hasselbeck (SEA) – Hasselbeck is coming out of his BYE and he’s finally getting his main receivers back, but he’s facing a very tough Giants defense that will be in his face all day creating problems. Plus, Branch and Engram won’t play the entire game and the other receivers are suspect at best. With no big name QB’s on BYE this week, you should be able to do better. 225yrds, 1 TD, 2 INT’s, 1 FUM
Jon Kitna (DET) – Kitna is coming off an injured knee and is facing the Bears this week. I expect a lot of turnovers and sacks and Kitna might not finish the game. While he has the weapons outside to make plays, the lack of a running game and questionable offensive line play make Kitna a poor choice this week. 200yrds, 2 TD’s, 3 INT’s, 2 FUM
RB – LaDanian Tomlinson, Adrian Peterson, Brian Westbrook, Marshawn ####, Larry Johnson, Clinton Portis, Frank Gore, Marion Barber, Reggie Bush
INJURY WATCH: Adrian Peterson(MIN), Brian Westbrook(PHI), Willie Parker(PIT), Willis Mcgahee(BAL), Darren McFadden(OAK), Justin Fargas(OAK), Ahman Green(HOU), Laurence Maroney(NEP), Lamont Jordan(NEP), Maurice Morris(SEA), Rashard Mendenhall(PIT), Chris Perry(CIN), Kenny Watson(CIN)
Start
Steve Slaton (HOU) – I’m on the Slaton bandwagon. After a tough Week 1 against the Steelers, Slaton has racked up the yards on the ground and through the air and scored in each of his last two games. This week he faces a Colts defense that surrenders over 150yrds to opposing backs. Gary Kubiak knows that his best defense this week will be to control the ball and keep Peyton Manning off the field. Slaton is flourishing in the same system that produced all of those Denver 1000yrd backs. 125yrds, 1 TD, 5 for 50yrds, 1 TD
Earnest Graham (TB) – Graham has been an odd cat this year, posting solid numbers through the first four weeks or the season, despite being shutout week 3. If you look at Graham’s numbers though, you’ll see he’s had two big runs late in week’s 2 and 4 that got him his big numbers for those games. With Brian Griese continuing to be generous to the opposing team with his constant turnovers, Graham should be the benefactor of a more conservative approach this week. He also goes up against a Broncos defense that nearly surrendered a 200yrd game last week. 100yrds, 2 TD’s, 2 for 15yrds
Sit
Chris Johnson/Lendale White (TEN) – Difficult to normally sit either of these guys, but I think Tennessee struggles this week at Baltimore. I expect a very physical game, where both teams will grind it out on offense and try to put their defenses and special teams in a position to win the game. Baltimore comes in as the number one defense in the league against the run, and I expect them to leave this week the same. Unless you’re a Steven Jackson owner, I’d stay away this week. 50-60yrds each, 0.50 TD’s each, 2 for 15yrds each
Michael Turner (ATL) – While Turner has been potent through his first four games, I expect the Falcons to stall this week in Green Bay. The Packers will load up against Turner and force Matt Ryan to try and beat them through the air. While he may score once this week, I see yardage very tough to come by as Atlanta will be forced to throw later in the game to try and make up ground. 30-40yrds, 1 TD, 2 for 15yrds
WR – Brandon Marshall, Terrell Owens, Reggie Wayne, Larry Fitzgerald, Greg Jennings, Calvin Johnson, Steve Smith(CAR), T.J. Houshmanzedah
INJURY WATCH: Marques Colston(NO), Anquan Boldin(ARI), Javon Walker(OAK), Reggie Brown(PHI), Kevin Curtis(PHI), Jerry Porter(JAC), Joey Galloway(TBB), Sidney Rice(MIN), Bernard Berrian(MIN), Deion Branch(SEA), Bobby Engram(SEA), Donte Stallworth(CLE), Devin Hester(CHI), David Patten(NO)
Start
Robert Meachem/Lance Moore (NO) – Besides Reggie Bush, there’s no one on the Saints left to throw to for at least the next two weeks. Both Moore and Meachem benefited from the absence of Colston, Shockey and a limited David Patten, and they’ll do the same this Monday Night when the Saints play the Vikings. Not that the Saints run all that much anyway, but this game should see even less. Get those Saints WR’s in your lineup. 5 for 100yrds each, 1 TD each
Matt Jones (JAC) – Jones will benefit from the Steelers aggressive blitzing and soft zone coverage, finding the holes much like Derrick Mason did this past Monday Night. If Garrard gets time to set up in the pocket, Jones should be open in a variety of areas on the field. Jones has also had success against the Steelers smaller cornerbacks in the red-zone, often winning many jump balls. 6 for 85yrds, 1 TD
Sit
Donald Driver (GB) – It’s obvious that the torch has been passed in the Green Bay receiving corp. Driver is getting about half the amount of looks that Jennings is receiving right now and there’s no sure bet that Rodgers will play this week. You’d figure that Driver would benefit from the doubles that roll Jennings way, but that hasn’t been the case. There are some good receivers on BYE this week, but Driver should only be used if you’re in a tight spot. 4 for 40yrds
Andre Johnson (HOU) – I thought you should never sit your studs?!? Hey, these types of calls are why they pay me the big bucks, err… something like that. If you look at what happened last week, you’ll see the reason for this predict. Indianapolis is tops in the league against the pass, (only because they’re last against the run) and Johnson will be paid extra attention this week. Kevin Walter benefited similarly last week, and the Texans are going to run the ball and use short dump offs to keep the pass rush at bay. A touchdown this week, maybe. 3 for 50yrds
TE – Jason Witten, Antonio Gates, Tony Gonzalez, Kellen Winslow, Chris Cooley
INJURY WATCH: Tony Gonzalez(KC), Jeremy Shockey(NO), L.J. Smith(PHI), Randy McMichael(STL), Ben Watson(NEP), Leonard Pope(ARI)
Start
Anthony Fasano (MIA) – The TE is the go to receiver in the Miami offense and Fasano has scored in two out of three games this year. They’ve had two weeks to prepare for San Diego, who also happens to give up more catches, yards, and TD’s to TE’s than any other defense in the league. The Chargers will have to focus on stopping Ronnie Brown, leaving Fasano open in the middle of the field. 5 for 75yrds, 1 TD
K – Nick Folk, Mason Crosby, Stephen Gostkowski, Adam Vinatieri, Rob Bironas, Nate Kaeding, David Akers
Start
Jeff Reed (PIT) – Reed is on the verge of becoming an every week start for fantasy owners. Why? He hasn’t missed a FG yet this season, converting all 7 attempts, including 4 of 40yrds and 1 50yrd. His XP to FG ratio right now is 8-7, which is the minimum you want from your fantasy kicker. I expect Reed to continue to have success as the Steelers offense stalls in field goal range against the tough defenses they face this year. 2 XP’s, 3 FG’s
Carolina Panthers – For the second week in a row I’m touting the Panthers. Though they didn’t create any turnovers last week, they are at home again and will play a Chiefs team that looked a lot better last week than they really are. Look for a low yards and points against and a few turnovers to go along an overall solid performance. There are no high profile defenses on BYE this week, so play your regulars and if you’re a NY Jets defense owner, get the Panthers in there if you need some help. <299 YA, <14 PA, 4 sacks, 1 INT, 1 FUM
(2)Buffalo Bills (4-0). Last: WON 31-14 @ St. Louis Rams. Next: @ Arizona (2-2). You can’t blame a team for the schedule they play. Winning games in the NFL is difficult, just ask the Broncos. Buffalo has a strong lead in the AFC East and the schedule isn’t going to get any harder. As long as they keep their key players healthy and continue to play great defense, they should have no problem winning twelve or thirteen games this year.
(3)New York Giants (3-0). Last: BYE. Next: vs. Seattle (1-2). The Giants will be without Plaxico Burress this week when they play the Seahawks. I don’t think it will be a big deal, as the Giants are very deep at the offensive skill positions. Both teams are coming off their BYE weeks, so they’ve had equal time to prepare for each other. The Giants will have to play excellent defense in the secondary as both Engram and Branch are expected back this week.
(1)Dallas Cowboys (3-1). Last: LOST 24-26 vs. Washington Redskins. Next: vs. Cincinnati (0-4). Divisional games are very tough to win. You play these teams so often that record is always thrown out when these games come around. Dallas was unable to get any kind of ground game started, allowing Washington to concentrate on stopping the pass. Anytime a team becomes one-dimensional, the results are usually unfavorable.
(7)Tennessee Titans (4-0). Last: WON 30-17 vs. Minnesota Vikings Next: @ Baltimore (2-1). The Titans continue to roll along, winning games and scoring in bunches. The offense will be tested yet again when they travel to Baltimore this week to face the league’s number one defense. You have to try and establish a run game against the Ravens to draw the safeties up; the corners are not that good. Kerry Collins will face his toughest challenge to date.
(5)Pittsburgh Steelers (3-1). Last: WON 23-20 vs. Baltimore Ravens. Next: @ Jacksonville (2-2) (Sunday Night). Pittsburgh outlasted Baltimore this past Monday Night to regain the lead in the AFC North. Baltimore dominated the game through three quarters, then a personal foul penalty against Baltimore late in the third swung the game. The Steelers then scored 2 TD’s in 15 seconds and hung on to win in overtime. It was an ugly win, but still a win and you’ll take those against divisional opponents. Redemption will be on their minds this week when they travel to Jacksonville.
(4)Philadelphia Eagles (2-2). Last: LOST 20-24 @ Chicago Bears. Next: vs. Washington (3-1). The Eagles schedule is no joke, nobodies is when you play in the NFC East. There won’t be a team under .500, yet someone will not be making the playoffs. The Eagles are low-man on the totem pole at the moment, though I don’t think they’ll stay there. They’ll have a chance to make up some ground this week against the Redskins. Which defense makes a stop will determine the outcome.
(10)Carolina Panthers (3-1). Last: WON 24-9 vs. Atlanta Falcons. Next: vs. Kansas City (1-3). Carolina finally got the pass game going, and they’ll need it in the next coming weeks. With teams seeing Delhomme, Smith and Muhammed on the same page, the safeties will have to back off, allowing Stewart and Williams the opportunity to break big gains. Carolina needs to remain healthy, a problem they’ve had in the past, to remain in the NFC South race.
(6)Green Bay Packers (2-2). Last: LOST 21-30 @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Next: vs. Atlanta (2-2). Green Bay lost to a tough Buccaneers team on the road, but more importantly, may have lost their QB in the process. A shoulder separation of a QB’s throwing arm is no joke and could become a season ender. If that’s the case, I don’t see a pair of rookie QB’s able to step in against this schedule and have success. All will hinge on those all important x-rays and MRI’s to come for Rodgers.
(8)Denver Broncos (3-1). Last: LOST 19-33 @ Kansas City Chiefs. Next: vs. Tampa Bay (3-1). Do they have trap games in the NFL? If so this was the prime example of one, with Denver maybe looking ahead to Tampa Bay next week. Maybe not, but whatever the case, the Broncos looked bad against arguably the worst team in the league. We’ll see how they respond this week to a much better defense and similar run-first offense.
(12)San Diego Chargers (2-2). Last: WON 28-18 @ Oakland Raiders. Next: @ Miami (1-2). Things looked bad for the Chargers, going down 18 points to the Raiders early, but picked things up, scoring 28 unanswered and winning the game. The Chargers could have trouble this week in Miami (did I just say that out loud) trying to defend Ronnie Brown. They will need to play disciplined defense to have success and cover the TE in the middle of the field, something they failed at this past week.
(9)Indianapolis Colts (1-2). Last: BYE. Next: @ Houston (0-3). The Colts are coming off their BYE and they’ll get to play Houston this week. They key thing was getting time to heal and Manning getting more time to work with his receivers. I expect a lot of Joseph Addai this week to help things along. The defense will have their hands full with rookie phenom Steve Slaton. They’re going to have to stay disciplined and make sure tackles to keep the speedster from breaking big plays.
(14)New Orleans Saints (2-2). Last: WON 31-17 vs. San Francisco 49ers. Next: vs. Minnesota (1-3) (Monday Night). The Saints defense finally gelled and the results were a convincing win against San Francisco. The return of Deuce McAllister really opened things up for Brees down field and he continued his passing domination on the season. Minnesota’s secondary is horrendous, and even without Colston, Shockey, and/or Patten, New Orleans has the depth at receiver and tight end to remain productive.
(15)Tampa Bay Buccaneers (3-1). Last: WON 30-21 vs. Green Bay Packers. Next: @ Denver (3-1). Tampa Bay has looked good, and they’re winning games differently every week. The defense was very strong against the Pack this past week, creating pressure, forcing turnovers, and eventually knocking Rodgers out of the game. The offense should be able to move the ball effectively against Denver this week by running the football and setting up play action. Griese needs to do a better job of taking care of the football for them to continue to have success.
(11)New England Patriots (2-1). Last: BYE. Next: @ San Francisco (2-2). The Patriots have the fortune of the BYE also last week, and they needed probably more than any other team. Their offense just isn’t that good, and their defense was exposed severely against the Dolphins. While the 49ers won’t run the same package this week, expect a heavy dose of a very similar type back in Frank Gore.
(16)Chicago Bears (2-2). Last: WON 24-20 vs. Philadelphia Eagles. Next: @ Detroit (0-3). Chicago beat a very good Philadelphia team this past Sunday Night, and they did it with defense, stopping the Eagles on a fourth and goal from the one. The passing game has looked remarkably different from past years, with Orton becoming more of a playmaker and less o####ame manager. A passing game opens up the run and the Bears are very good at the run.
(NR)Washington Redskins (3-1). Last: WON 26-24 @ Dallas Cowboys. Next: @ Philadelphia (2-2). I want to rank the Redskins higher, but what are you gonna do. A win this week would shoot them up the ranks, I promise. Winning at Dallas is no easy feat, but the Skins have played well against the Boys, beating them in the final game last year to squeak into the playoffs. Back-to-back divisional road games are the ultimate test of a team. Let’s see how they perform this week.
Dropped Out: (13) Minnesota
On the Verge: Jacksonville (2-2)
Bottom Feeders: 32.St. Louis Rams, 31.Detroit Lions, 30. Cincinnati Bengals
BYE WEEK: Patriots, Colts, Dolphins, NY Giants, Lions, Seahawks
QB – Peyton Manning, Drew Brees, Tony Romo, Ben Roethlisberger, Donovan McNabb, Jay Cutler
INJURY WATCH: Ben Roethlisberger(PIT), Donovan McNabb(PHI), Matt Hasselbeck(SEA), Brett Favre(GB), Damon Huard(KC)
Start
J.T. O’Sullivan(SF) – If you followed my advice from last week, you were rewarded by O’Sullivan to a quality start of 16-23, 189yrds, 2 TD’s, and 0 Turnovers. With a shootout brewing in New Orleans this week, I expect very similar numbers. The defense will concentrate on slowing Gore, leaving a lot of single coverage on the outside. San Francisco has the receivers to take advantage of those situations. 250yrds, 2 TD’s
Trent Edwards(BUF) – Edwards and the Buffalo offense are hot right now, and there’s no reason to see that trend not continuing this week in St. Louis. The Rams are the most dysfunctional team in the league outside of Kansas City and Edwards will be able to take advantage downfield as the defense attempts to contain Marshawn ####. Though Roscoe Parrish will not play this week, Buffalo has the receivers to make the big plays. 225yrds, 2 TD’s
Sit
Marc Bulger/Trent Green(STL) – St. Louis has announced they are going with Trent Green this week. Bulger may quickly become a fantasy afterthought if Green comes out and performs. The Rams can’t do any worse at this point and it’s possible Green can spark something in this offense, relegating Bulger to the bench until Green gets hurt, which seems inevitable at this point in his career.
Aaron Rodgers(GB) – May be a reach here, but I think Rodgers and the Green Bay offense will struggle at Tampa Bay. It’s hard to sit Rodgers this week with so many high profile QB’s on BYE, but if you have two capable QB’s, I think Rodgers should be benched. Though he has the receivers to make the plays, I expect him to be under pressure all day and scrambling around in the backfield. If he continues to run as much as he has through the first three weeks, he won’t last much longer this season. 250yrds, 1 TD, 2 INT’s, 1 FUM
RB – LaDanian Tomlinson, Adrian Peterson, Brian Westbrook, Steven Jackson, Marshawn ####, Larry Johnson, Clinton Portis, Frank Gore, Marion Barber, Willie Parker, Reggie Bush, Michael Turner
INJURY WATCH: Adrian Peterson(MIN), Brian Westbrook(PHI), Steven Jackson(STL), Willie Parker(PIT), Willis Mcgahee(BAL), Darren McFadden(OAK), Justin Fargas(OAK), Ahman Green(HOU), Deuce McAllister(NO), Laurence Maroney(NEP), Lamont Jordan(NEP), Maurice Morris(SEA)
Start
Jonathan Stewart(CAR) – I can’t see why Stewart won’t receive the bulk of the carries this week against Atlanta. It’s obvious he’s a much better back than Williams, and there has to be something with his blocking that is keeping him from being an every down back. I expect Carolina to continue to be a run first team and pick their spots to go downfield. That means a lot of touches for Stewart and a lot of opportunity to score. 100yrds, 2 TD’s
Jamal Lewis(CLE) – This is the week that Lewis finally gets it going. The Browns are desperate for a win and they can’t afford to fall to last place in the AFC North. They know that if they lose this game, they’re all but eliminated from playoff contention. With Anderson struggling, I expect to see a lot of Lewis to alleviate the pressure on the offense. 100yrds, 2 TD’s
Sit
Philadelphia RB’s – Brian Westbrook might play this week, but I highly doubt it. Even if he does play, given his condition, it will be a time-split and that spells trouble, especially against the Chicago defense. This could end up like last week’s game against Pittsburgh; very low scoring, with defenses dominating. 30-40yrds each, 3 for 15-20yrds each, 0.33 TD each
Edgerrin James(ARI) – I think it’s only a matter of time before James rides the pine or comes off the bench in a relief role. He just doesn’t have it anymore, and the other RB in Arizona seems to be taking more and more away from him with each passing week. Speaking of passing, there’s also going to be a lot of that from Arizona this week. Couple that with the fact that James doesn’t get the goal-line carries and that equals a Fantasy Benching. 50-60yrds, 2 for 15yrds
WR – Terrell Owens, Reggie Wayne, Andre Johnson, Larry Fitzgerald, Brandon Marshall, Calvin Johnson, Plaxico Burress, Greg Jennings, Anquan Boldin (removed: Randy Moss, Braylon Edwards)
INJURY WATCH: Chad Johnson(CIN), Marques Colston(NO), Javon Walker(OAK), Reggie Brown(PHI), Kevin Curtis(PHI), Jerry Porter(JAC), Joey Galloway(TBB), Sidney Rice(MIN), Bernard Berrian(MIN), Deion Branch(SEA), Bobby Engram(SEA), Donte Stallworth(CLE), Devin Hester(CHI), Roscoe Parrish(BUF), David Patten(NO)
Start
Dwayne Bowe(KC) – You wouldn’t know it by his numbers, but Bowe actually leads the league in targets so far this season. Damon Huard is expected to start this week, and that gives Bowe the best chance to succeed in this offense. The Chiefs will have to abandon the run early in this one to keep pace with Denver and that means lots of opportunity for Bowe. This is his week to shine. 7 for 125yrds, 1 TD
Hines Ward/Santonio Holmes(PIT) – The Steelers were embarrassed last week at Philly, surrendering nine sacks and managing zero touchdowns. I don’t see that happening again this week. This is a Monday Night game at home where there’s nobody better than the Steelers. Think back to last year’s first meeting between these teams. Everyone’s going to overrate Baltimore based on their record against two very bad teams. A rookie RB starting will lead to many passing opportunities. 6 for 80-90yrds each, 1 TD each
Sit
Braylon Edwards(CLE) – Again, very difficult to sit such an explosive receiver, but Edwards is at the bottom of the barrel right now in Fantasy points through the first three weeks. Cincinnati did an excellent job of shutting down Plaxico Burress last week and I expect them to do the same to Edwards this week. Until you see something from Anderson, like a good game or him on the bench, I’d wait on Edwards unless the BYE week has made you desperate. 4 for 30-40yrds
TE – Jason Witten, Antonio Gates, Tony Gonzalez, Kellen Winslow, Chris Cooley
INJURY WATCH: Jeremy Shockey(NO), L.J. Smith(PHI), Ben Watson(NEP)
Start
Billy Miller(NO) – With Shockey, Colston, and potentially Patten on the sidelines for a while, Miller becomes a strong option this week with six teams on their BYE. This would be a great opportunity for a Shockey, Dallas Clark, or Anthony Fasano owner to make up those lost points. San Francisco has been generous in its defense this season and Brees is going to be slinging the ball all over the place. 6 for 40-50yrds, 1 TD
K – Nick Folk, Mason Crosby, Stephen Gostkowski, Adam Vinatieri, Rob Bironas, Nate Kaeding, Robbie Gould
Start
Phil Dawson(CLE) – I think the Browns get back on track this week because they need to. That still doesn’t mean they’re going to score a lot of touchdowns, but I do think they’ll score a lot of points. Cincinnati did a good job of slowing down the Giants last week, stalling many drives in field goal range. 3 FG’s, 2 XP’s
Carolina Panthers – Though the Panthers are a little ####ed up, I expect their game-plan this week will be to control the ball and keep Michael Turner off the field. Their secondary will limit Roddy White and pressure Matt Ryan into making rookie mistakes. By shortening the game and scoring, they should force Atlanta into throwing late and taking advantage of the situation. This figures to be one of the lower scoring games this week and if you’re in a pinch for a defense, Carolina could pay good dividends. <300 YA, <17 PA, 4 sacks, 2 INT’s, 1 FUM
