INJURY WATCH: Tony Romo(DAL), Jay Cutler(DEN), Ben Roethlisberger(PIT), Matt Schaub(HOU), Carson Palmer(CIN), Matt Hasselbeck(SEA), Kyle Orton(CHI), Dan Orvlosky(DET), Brian Griese(TB), Vince Young(TEN)
Start
Chad Pennington (MIA) – Pennington has been a very strong play in recent weeks and I look for him to continue his good play. The game is at home and Seattle’s defense has been much better shutting down the run than the pass. Pennington doesn’t throw the deep ball all that well, but there’s no one more accurate on shorter routes. He is excellent in giving his receivers a chance to run after the catch and makes plays in space. Seattle gave up huge yards to the tight end last week, and Miami has some good ones. 19 for 25 250yrds, 2 TD’s
Jake Delhomme (CAR) – Delhomme has an excellent match up this week going on the road to Oakland. The weather will be perfect for Steve Smith and Mushin Muhammed to abuse the Oakland secondary. I would expect Carolina to have many opportunities to score and they may lean on the run late after the game is well in hand, but they’ll throw, oh yes, they’ll throw. 16 for 22 225yrds, 2 TD’s
Sit
Ben Roethlisberger (PIT) – It pains me to say this, but the Steelers may need to sit Big Ben down a few games to let that nagging shoulder injury get healed. Byron Leftwich looked good enough in relief to convince me that Ben will at least miss one game. Even if he does start, there’s a chance he won’t finish. Indianapolis has had success against the Steelers in the past, so this offense could get shut down anyway.
Trent Edwards (BUF) – New England is a much better home team than when they’re on the road, so I look for them to use that home field advantage to rattle Edwards and force into bad situations. The Bills have given up a lot of sacks recently and you know the Patriots will try to exploit the problems in the offensive line to their advantage. Marshawn #### is also ####ed up a little and that could put more burden on the passing game. 18 for 30 225yrds, 1 TD, 2 INT’s, 1 FUM
RB – Brian Westbrook, Adrian Peterson, LaDanian Tomlinson, Frank Gore, Ronnie Brown, Brandon Jacobs, Michael Turner, Marshawn ####, Chris Johnson(TEN), Willie Parker
INJURY WATCH: Joseph Addai(IND), Marshawn ####(BUF), Steven Jackson(STL), Reggie Bush(NO), Willis Mcgahee(BAL), Earnest Graham(TB), Warrick Dunn(TB), Selvin Young(DEN), Michael Pittman(DEN), Darren McFadden(OAK), Sammie Morris(NEP), Chris Perry(CIN), Justin Fargas(OAK), Lamont Jordan(NEP), Maurice Morris(SEA), Jerious Norwood(ATL), Felix Jones(DAL), Ahman Green(HOU), Antonio Pittman(STL), Kolby Smith(KC), Dominic Rhodes(IND), Andre Hall(DEN), Ladell Betts(WAS)
Start
Jamal Lewis (CLE) – There are many factors that play in to Lewis being a smart bet this week. Cleveland will be deploying a new QB this week, and as it happens, it’s a short week with the game falling on a Thursday. The Browns are at home and are facing a defense that ranks in the bottom five against the run and will be without DJ Williams and Champ Bailey. I expect Lewis to get an extremely heavy workload to help ease the pressure on Quinn. 125yrds, 3 for 25yrds, 2 TD’s
Ryan Torain (DEN) – After gaining only 1 yard on three carries last week, Torain will be the featured back due to fact that he’s the only healthy back on the team. Denver needs the run game to be successful to setup all of the play-action and boot legs that they run in the passing game. Pittman and Hall were placed on IR this week and Young is still battling a hamstring injury. Due to the short week, Torain should also get a heavy workload to wear down the Cleveland defense and protect their vulnerable defense by keeping the Browns offense on the sidelines as much as possible. 100yrds, 4 for 25yrds, 1 TD
Sit
Matt Forte (CHI) – Forte has the unfortunate circumstance of playing the Titans this week and Rex Grossman is playing quarterback. I can’t see Chicago being able to do much of anything in this one and there’s a good chance they’ll find themselves behind early and having to try and catch up later. Forte may catch some passes as an outlet receiver, but I would expect very much this week. 35yrds, 3 for 25yrds
Ryan Grant (GBP) – The Packers are going to have to throw more in this one to be successful. Minnesota will be able to shut down the run inside and Grant doesn’t have the best ability to get to the corner, the one spot the Vikings might be vulnerable. No, the Packers will attack threw the air, passing first to try and loosen up the front seven, but it will be with little success. Given the BYE week situations you shouldn’t have trouble finding a good fill-in. 50yrds, 3 for 15ydrs
WR – Brandon Marshall, Reggie Wayne, Andre Johnson, Greg Jennings, Calvin Johnson, Larry Fitzgerald, Anquan Boldin, Marques Colston
INJURY WATCH: Reggie Wayne(IND), Santana Moss(WAS), Chris Chambers(SD), Laveranes Coles(NYJ), Jerricho Cotchery(NYJ), Deion Branch(SEA), Eddie Royal(DEN), Anthony Gonzalez(IND), Kevin Walter(HOU), Justin Gage(TEN), Justin McCareins(TEN), Javon Walker(OAK), Joey Galloway(TBB), Sidney Rice(MIN), Brandon Stokely(DEN), Darrell Jackson(DEN), Brandon Lloyd(CHI), David Patten(NO), Drew Bennett(STL), Dante Stallworth(CLE), Marty Booker(CHI), Reggie Williams(JAC), Josh Reed(BUF)
Start
Matt Jones (JAC) – Jones has been the only reliable target for Jacksonville and he’s earned the confidence of Garrard. That will be important when the Jaguars need to throw the ball. This could be a break out game for Jones this week as the Jaguars need this win at Detroit to have any chance of a playoff spot in the AFC. I expect the big receiver to have a big game as Jacksonville pounds Detroit this week. 7 for 100yrds, 1 TD
Derrick Mason (BAL) – It’s rare to see a Raven WR in the Start ‘Em section, but Mason has been lights out lately due to the continuing improvement of Joe Flacco. The Ravens need to open up the passing game more if they want to compete in January and this will be another tune-up game for Flacco before the schedule gets a lot tougher. When Flacco throws, Mason catches and catches a lot. He’s not the deep threat on the team, but he’s almost a guarantee for 6 or 7 catches a game. If you’re looking for a receiver to help this week, grab Mason. 6 for 85yrds, 1 TD
Sit
Plaxico Burress (NYG) – Plax has not had a good game in a while and he’ll draw Asante Samuel this week in coverage. Not good. The Eagles will apply heavy pressure on the Giants and try to force Eli into coughing up the ball, something he did 3 times last week against Dallas. Philly’s defense is strong enough to remove Burress’ big play ability and should have you considering having him ride the pine. 4 for 30yrds
Torry Holt (STL) – You may be able to throw on the Jets, and I expect the Rams to have to do so, but you don’t throw on Darrel Revis, one of the games top young corners. Unless we see a quarterback change in St. Louis, I wouldn’t expect Holt to do much from here on out, especially not his week. 4 for 40yrds
TE – Kellen Winslow, Tony Gonzalez, Owen Daniels, Dallas Clark, Antonio Gates
INJURY WATCH: Jason Witten(DAL), Tony Scheffler(DEN), Heath Miller(PIT), Jeremy Shockey(NO), L.J. Smith(PHI), Leonard Pope(ARI), Ben Utecht(CIN), Bubba Franks(NYJ)
Start
Anthony Fasano (MIA) – Fasano should benefit from a lot of looks in this one. After what the Eagles were able to do with the tight end last week, I’d expect Miami to take a very similar approach. Martin may also be involved in the passing game, but Fasano is the better all around player and should get the majority of the looks. With players like Cooley and Witten on BYE’s and Scheffler, Shockey, and Heath Miller all ####ed up, you could do a lot worse than Fasano.
K – Mason Crosby, Stephen Gostkowski, Adam Vinatieri, John Carney, David Akers, Robbie Gould
INJURY WATCH: Lawrence Tynes(NYG), Mike Nugent(NYJ)
Start
Jay Feely (NYJ) – Feely has only converted 75% of his tries this year, but he should get plenty of opportunities this week at home against the Rams. Check the weather before the game as it can always be a factor, but everything else points to this being a high scoring game for the Jets and lots of points for Feely. 3 FG’s, 3 XP’s
INJURY WATCH:Baltimore (Chris McAllister-CD, Samari Rolle-CB), Minnesota (Madieu Williams-S, David Herron-LB), Chicago (Tommie Harris-DT, Charles Tillman-CB, Nathan Vasher-CB), Pittsburgh (Casey Hampton-NT, Bryant McFadden-CB), Tampa Bay (Jermaine Philips-S, Jovan Haye-DT), Indianapolis (Marlin Jackson-CB, Daymeion Hughes-CB), Green Bay (Charles Woodson-CB), Dallas (Terence Newman-CB, Anthony Henry-CB), Washington (Jason Taylor-DE, Shawn Springs-CB), NY Giants (Kevin Dockery-CB, Bryan Kehl-LB) New England (Ellis Hobbs-CB, Jarvis Green-DE), Denver (Champ Bailey-CB, D.J. Williams-LB), Cleveland (Shaun Rogers-DT, Corey Williams-DE)
Start
Carolina Panthers – Could there be a more inept team right now in the league than the Raiders. If they struggled against Atlanta’s mediocre defense last week, what are they going to do against the Panthers this week? I’d expect at least over 100yrds and maybe some points, maybe. Carolina is coming off their BYE and had ample time to get healthy and prepare for this game. If the run fails Oakland early and Carolina gets a lead, it forces the Raiders into passing, and that’s exactly what Carolina wants you to have to do. <200 PA, < 14 PA, 5 sacks, 2 INT’s, 1 FUM
BYE WEEK: Carolina, New Orleans, San Diego, San Francisco
QB – Kurt Warner, Donovan McNabb, Peyton Manning, Aaron Rodgers
INJURY WATCH: Tony Romo(DAL), Jay Cutler(DEN), Carson Palmer(CIN), Matt Hasselbeck(SEA), Brian Griese(TB), Vince Young(TEN)
Start
David Garrard (JAC) – Garrard has been playing at a very high level lately and I expect the same to continue this week. The Jaguars will be playing the Bengals and the offense should be able to move the ball up and down the field most of the game. The defense should create some opportunities and short fields for Garrard to capitalize on. Garrard also makes plays with his legs, leading the Jags in rushing yards last week. He will also have his top receiver available this week, so things are looking good. 20 of 27 275yrds, 2 TD’s, 30yrds rush
Marc Bulger (STL) – The Rams have been resurgent lately and the passing game has seen improvements over the past weeks. Bulger is getting more support in pass protection and his run game has alleviated a lot of the pressure. The Rams may get into a shootout with the Cardinals this week, or they could get down in the game and be forced to throw more. I’d expect a closer game though even though it may be a high scoring affair. I wouldn’t count of Bulger every week, but if you have Brees, Rivers, or Delhomme, Bulger could fill in this week for you. 24 of 32 250yrds, 2 TD’s, 1 INT
Sit
Matt Cassell (NEP) – I think Cassell runs into some problems this Sunday night in Indianapolis. The Colts could get Bob sanders back, instantly upgrading a run defense that has already been playing pretty good despite the game against Tennessee last week. If the Colts come out gunning and get a lead, Cassell will be forced to throw. And when he’s on the road, the results are not very favorable. 16 of 28 175yrds, 1 TD, 2 INT’s
Eli Manning (NYG) – When Dallas comes to town, it’s typically a low scoring, defensive struggle, with both teams keeping it tight to the vest and utilizing the run game to try and wear out the others’ defense. Wade Philips is now calling the defensive plays, his specialty, and it shut down Tampa’s offense last week. Manning may catch a break here and there, but I wouldn’t expect anything spectacular from him. 17 of 25 200yrds, 1 TD, 1 INT, 1 FUM
RB – Brian Westbrook, Adrian Peterson, Steven Jackson, Clinton Portis, Marion Barber, Ronnie Brown, Brandon Jacobs, Michael Turner, Marshawn ####, Chris Johnson(TEN)
INJURY WATCH: Clinton Portis(WAS), Joseph Addai(IND), Steven Jackson(STL), Willie Parker(PIT), Reggie Bush(NO), Willis Mcgahee(BAL), Warrick Dunn(TB), Selvin Young(DEN), Michael Pittman(DEN), Darren McFadden(OAK), Sammie Morris(NEP), Chris Perry(CIN), Justin Fargas(OAK), Lamont Jordan(NEP), Maurice Morris(SEA), Jerious Norwood(ATL), Felix Jones(DAL), Ahman Green(HOU), Jamaal Charles(KC)
Start
Earnest Graham (TBB) – Graham should once again get the bulk of the carries this week with Warrick Dunn still nursing a troubled back. Kansas City’s rush defense ranks in the bottom three in yards against, and Tampa will want to run as much as possible on the road this week. Those of you looking for Graham’s breakout game, get ready to smile. 110yrds, 2 TD’s, 4 for 25yrds
Dominic Rhodes (IND) – For the Colts to be successful, they’ll need to run. With Joseph Addai still recovering from an injury, Rhodes will be the workhorse this Sunday Night. The Colts offense is predicated on play-action, and for that to work, they’ll need to feed Rhodes a healthy dose of the rock to make it believable. This is a game the Colts will especially want to win, and I think they’ll get it done. 100ydrs, 1 TD, 4 for 35yrds
Sit
Edgerrin James (ARI) – James will be on the short end of a team that wants to test the future of the franchise this year, and this is the perfect opportunity to do so; on the road against a sub-par defense. James will still get his touches, but it won’t be enough to warrant a start this week. This could be the beginning of the end for James, so monitor his situation closely. 30yrds
Willis Mcgahee (BAL) – Mcgahee is still ####ed up and his game is suffering because of it. Cleveland will be determined to shut down the Raves run this week and force Flacco to beat them threw the air. Ray Rice has also seen his touches increase over the past couple of weeks. All of these things throw up a big, red caution flag on Mcgahee. Unless BYE weeks are forcing your hand, keep him on your bench. 40yrds, 2 for 10yrds
WR – Brandon Marshall, Reggie Wayne, Andre Johnson, Greg Jennings, Calvin Johnson, Larry Fitzgerald, Anquan Boldin, T.J. Houshmanzedah, Plaxico Burress
Santonio Holmes (PIT) – This is a redemption game for Holmes after letting his team down last week due to a run-in with the local authorities. The Steelers will need to throw and Washington’s defense is ####ed up. Washington has a meager 10 sacks this year, so there should be lots of time for Ben to have a look downfield to Holmes. He’s looking to prove how valuable he is to this team and he’ll have a big game to make up for it. 6 for 115yrds, 1 TD
Eddie Royal (DEN) – Jay Cutler should have a bounce back game this week as the Dolphins and their 27th ranked pass defense roll into town. Marshall and Scheffler, if he plays, should draw most of the defensive attention, leaving Royal in plenty of single coverage opportunities to taka advantage of. According to Vegas, this should be the highest scoring game of the week, so expect Denver to continue to throw late into the game. 6 for 90yrds, 1 TD
Sit
Dwayne Bowe (KC) – Kansas City is in trouble this week against Tampa Bay. The Cover 2 effectively shuts down receivers on the outside and limits any deep balls. This will likely be a low scoring game with most of the action coming from the ground games. Until Bowe starts converting on more of the targets he receives, you may want to keep him benched. 4 for 30yrds
Jerricho Cotchery (NYJ) – Cotchery was destined for a huge season this year after last year’s numbers and the addition of Brett Favre, but things haven’t quite worked out. Besides from being hurt for most of the season, Cotchery doesn’t seem to draw the eye of Favre as much as Coles and Stuckey do. Buffalo should do a good job of neutralizing him this week. 2 for 50yrds
TE – Chris Cooley, Kellen Winslow, Tony Gonzalez, Owen Daniels, Dallas Clark
INJURY WATCH: Jason Witten(DAL), Tony Scheffler(DEN), Jeremy Shockey(NO), L.J. Smith(PHI), Leonard Pope(ARI), Ben Utecht(CIN), Bubba Franks(NYJ)
Start
Greg Olsen (CHI) – It should be a big scoring day for Chicago this week and I’d expect Olsen to get in on the action. Kyle Orton has been phenomenal this season and Chicago’s offense has been one of the more productive. The Bears should have success against the Lions this week with their defense and special teams setting up lots of short field opportunities. 5 for 50yrds, 1 TD
K – Mason Crosby, Stephen Gostkowski, Adam Vinatieri, John Carney, David Akers, Robbie Gould
INJURY WATCH: Lawrence Tynes(NYG), Mike Nugent(NYJ)
Start
Ryan Longwell (MIN) – It should be a high scoring game in Minnesota this Sunday, and Longwell will get the opportunities as the Vikings drives stall. The game is indoors and Minnesota should be able to move the ball well between the 20’s. Longwell is very accurate and should have no trouble converting. 3 FG’s, 2 XP’s
INJURY WATCH:Baltimore (Chris McAllister-CD, Samari Rolle-CB), Minnesota (Madieu Williams-S, David Herron-LB), Chicago (Tommie Harris-DT, Charles Tillman-CB, Nathan Vasher-CB), Pittsburgh (Ryan Clark-FS, Bryant McFadden-CB), Tampa Bay (Jermaine Philips-S, Jovan Haye-DT), Indianapolis (Marlin Jackson-CB, Daymeion Hughes-CB), Green Bay (Charles Woodson-CB), Dallas (Terence Newman-CB, Anthony Henry-CB), Washington (Jason Taylor-DE, Shawn Springs-CB, Cornelius Griffin-DT), NY Giants (Kevin Dockery-CB, Bryan Kehl-LB) New England (Ellis Hobbs-CB, Jarvis Green-DE)
Start
Cleveland Browns – The top defenses are all playing this week, so there may not be a need to find a BYE week fill in, but if you do, take a peek at the Browns this week. They’re at home, and playing a Baltimore offense that ranks in the bottom five in scoring and has been quite generous with turnovers lately. The Ravens will want to run, but Cleveland has been playing extremely well lately and if they can shut things down early, it would force Flacco into throwing more; something he hasn’t done well consistently. <250 YA, <17 PA, 3 sacks, 2 INT’s, 1 FUM
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
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
