All In Sports

2010-12-22T12:19:00.001-08:00

All in Sports Fantasy Advice
Week 16 - Football Breakdown and Rankings

It’s Christmas week and also the second or final round of your playoffs. That means two things. One, we’re all excited for the gift giving and fun we’ll have Saturday. Two, you’re either happy and excited for your Fantasy team’s possible win or ticked off and disappointed from your chance already being over. Hopefully, you’re still in it and will have a weekend full of enjoyment – Fantasy win or not.

In line with the Christmas spirit, I broke down a Stock Up and Down report, Christmas TV Special style found at www.RotoExperts.com. You can see it there along with plenty of other tips and advice to help you win.

Enjoy, good luck, and if you’re wondering, a iPad, 3DTV, or date with recently single Scarlett Johansson are on my list for desired gifts.

Settling Up Week 15

Top Pair (players who guaranteed a good week)

Michael Vick – Do you realize that in the beginning of the fourth quarter, Jimmy Clausen had more Fantasy points? That was before Vick went crazy leading one of the most impressive comebacks ever. He finished with another chart-topping stat line with four total TDs (three passing), 242 passing yards, and 130 yards rushing. Apologies to anyone who had to face him last week (Giants included).

Ray Rice – Welcome back Ray Rice. This was the type of game we expect from a Top 5 pick. Rice tore through the Saints defense on his way to 233 total yards and two TDs. The best part was the TDs. He had just three coming in and nearly equaled that total in one game.

Vincent Jackson – So much for being hurt. So much for not caring. So much for game rust, not being in sync with Philip Rivers or giving less than 100% effort. Hopefully for you, after Malcom Floyd was ruled out, you plugged Jackson in your lineup. By the comments I’ve seen, more than not left him benched though as VJax abused the 49ers to the tune of 112 yards and three TDs.

River Rat (players who surprised everyone)

Rex Grossman – Hold up, Rex Grossman was the second highest scoring QB? I know you can’t tell, but I just sat here mouth agape for a few minutes before I started typing again…I still can’t believe it. It’s nearly guaranteed the effort went to waste in Fantasy leagues as no one bothered starting him or even likely picked him up. Yet, everyone wishes they had because 322 yards and four TDs is a terrific performance.

Cedric Benson – There’s the Cedric Benson from 2009. He showed glimpses of the 2009 campaign that made everyone believe he was finally worthy of a RB1 tag this year. However, they have come too far and few between. Owners who were stuck riding Benson out were lucky enough to receive a 150-yard and one TD performance just when they needed it.

Mario Manningham – It’s quite possible Manningham could be in the perfect position alongside Hakeem Nicks. While coverage was focused on Nicks (who still had a good game), Manningham was able to break free many times totaling eight catches, 113 yards and two TDs. It’s good news and bad as Manningham could have a great future, while Steve Smith could see his days in New York slipping away.

Gut Shot (players who let everyone down)

Sam Bradford – Hopefully, you heeded the advice already and haven’t been relying on Bradford for your QB option. The game against Kansas City now marks three straight games without a TD pass. In addition, he failed to reach 200 yards passing in two of those games. He may have a ton of talent, but it’s not translating to Fantasy just yet.

Arian Foster – People kept waiting for the slipper to drop, and what a terrible time for it to happen. Foster put in his worst performance on the season with just 15 yards on 11 carries. He managed to prevent a one-point day by catching enough passes to keep him from being a total waste. Nevertheless, it didn’t lessen the sting owners felt in their playoffs from their No. 1 back.

Maurice Jones-Drew – Staying with the thought of worst possible timing, hello MJD! Six straight 100+yard performances with Indy on tap, and he busts. The Colts are one of the worst teams in the league against the run setting the stage for MJD to tie the record for consecutive 100-yard games. Too bad for him and owners everywhere that he decided to call this one in.

What’s the Deal for Week 16?

All In (players I’m high on)

Matt Schaub – You can’t get much hotter than Matt Schaub. Okay, well there’s Michael Vick, but he’s like planet Mercury hot right now. Over the past three games, Schaub has thrown for over 300 yards to go with two or more TDs in each. Denver has one of the worst pass defenses in the league meaning the fire will keep burning.

Eli Manning – After two rough weeks, Manning threw four TDs against a strong defense – albeit in a disappointing loss. Following the game, Eli called his first ever players-only meeting. It’s about time he took that step. Look for Eli to step it up again in Green Bay, especially now that he and Nicks are back together.

Tim Tebow – No, I’m not kidding. If you watched last week’s game, you saw that Tebow is playing just as he did at Florida, and that means rushing attempts and yards. In case you forgot, Houston can’t stop anyone on defense setting Tebow up for another strong day and a good chance at multiple scores. Lastly, I’m not suggesting benching Joe Flacco, Drew Brees or even David Garrard for him, but if you owned Matt Cassel, Kyle Orton, etc., you could do much worse.

Arian Foster – It’s bounce-back time for Foster. Unfortunately, after last week’s stinker, many of his owners are out of contention now. If you managed to survive, rest assured it won’t happen again as Denver gives up the most points to RBs by far.

Ryan Torain – Yet another terrific matchup situation. Torain should have no problem putting up big numbers against the Jaguars. The only tough part is trying to silence that nagging thought about Mike Shanahan possibly riding Keiland Williams all game instead because he woke up on the left side of the bed this week.

Maurice Jones-Drew – Time to get another 100-yard game streak going…although with two games left, it’s a little late. Nevertheless, the Redskins allow 134 yards rushing per game. It would be shocking if Jones-Drew doesn’t find his way back to the century mark.

Larry Fitzgerald (Ace in the Hole) – As bad as they are, the Panthers are still one of the best teams against the pass. Fitzgerald ignored that fact as he totaled 125 yards on nine catches with John Skelton at QB. Now, Arizona gets Dallas at home, a team that cannot stop WRs in general, let alone one like Fitz.

Marques Colston – It’s tough to believe, but there is a consistent WR option in New Orleans. Colston has six or more points in eight straight games with six double-digit totals and seven TDs. Atlanta is strong against the run, but rather weak against the pass, and Brees will look to upset the Falcons in Atlanta to keep division hopes alive.

Pierre Garcon – We saw what happened when Austin Collie was out the last time, and Garcon was in sync with Peyton Manning. Now that Collie is on the IR, Garcon has the No. 2 role locked in and will be a valuable option with great potential.

Jason Witten – The two best things to happen to Witten were both losses. He lost his starting QB and head coach. With Jon Kitna at quarterback and Jason Garrett coaching, Witten has exploded on the field. Over the past three games, he has 22 receptions, 251 yards and four TDs. Now, he goes up against Arizona this Sunday…the fun will continue.

Muck ‘Em (players I’m down on)

Jason Campbell – He’ll put together a strong game here and there, but more often than not, Campbell will let you down. It’s not the time of year to get cute with your choices (outside of Tebow) as Campbell can’t be trusted for more than one TD against a strong Colts defense.

Alex Smith (The Flop) – Let’s put it this way, I’d start John Skelton against Dallas before using Alex Smith. At least Skelton has the potential in that matchup to throw multiple TDs. St. Louis has a strong defense under Spagnuolo, and Smith has more bad games than good. Find someone else for your QB.

Mark Sanchez – The Bears have only given up 12 passing TDs on the year. Sanchez only has 16 total and zero in his past three games. Additionally, his highest yardage total over the past four weeks is 216 against Miami. The performance just doesn’t match the New York hype.

LaDainian Tomlinson – Just in case you need the reminder from weeks ago and likely again somewhere in between, Tomlinson is done. His point totals from the past four weeks are five, five, four, and four. The Bears only allow 14.9 points per game to RBs, and LDT will not see a large portion of that number.

Saints RBs – Who’s going to get the carries? Who knows? Anyone have a four-sided coin? Even if we knew, the Falcons are the sixth best team against the run and allow the fifth most points to receivers. It’s obvious where the game plan will focus for New Orleans.

Mike Tolbert/Ryan Mathews – Speaking of not knowing who will see opportunities, the Chargers are in the same boat. Tolbert and Mathews have the exact same amount of carries the past two weeks. You can try to hope Tolbert continues to reach the end zone. However, that’s a risk not worth taking with a possible championship on the line.

Johnny Knox – In a matchup between the Jets’ secondary and Jay Cutler, who do you think will prevail? Exactly. After two miserable games, Knox performed well against Minnesota, but the Vikings are thin in the secondary with rookies and journeymen. That’s a stark contrast to Darrelle Revis and Antonio Cromartie.

Chad Ochocinco – Normally, with Terrell Owens done for the year, Ocho’s value would improve. However, he’s banged up and has a matchup against a terrific Chargers secondary. When you add those factors to Ocho talking about not being back in 2011, it’s clear he’s likely checked out, as should you.

Steve Smith – Speaking of checking out, Smith has his house on the market, but he says it’s just to cut costs with a second child on the way. Last time I checked, the cost of a child for a multi-millionaire did not carry the same budget constraints as it does for us. In any case, Smith has not topped six Fantasy points since Week 2 and faces the Steelers on the road this week. Maybe he can better spend his time shopping the Pittsburgh housing market.

Brandon Pettigrew – Coming out of Week 12, Pettigrew was one of the most consistent tight ends and in the Top 10. Since then, he has only six Fantasy points and has been left out of the Lions’ offense. Miami is one of the stingiest teams for opposing TEs meaning things won’t be better this week.

Quarterback
Rank - Player - Team ( Opp )
1 - Michael Vick - PHI ( MIN )
2 - Philip Rivers - SD ( @ CIN )
3 - Drew Brees - NO ( @ ATL )
4 - Peyton Manning - IND ( @ OAK )
5 - Tom Brady - NE ( @ BUF )
6 - Matt Schaub - HOU ( @ DEN )
7 - Aaron Rodgers - GB ( NYG )
8 - Eli Manning - NYG ( @ GB )
9 - Joe Flacco - BAL ( @ CLE )
10 - Matt Ryan - ATL ( NO )
11 - Josh Freeman - TB ( SEA )
12 - Jon Kitna - DAL ( @ ARZ )
13 - Ben Roethlisberger - PIT ( CAR )
14 - David Garrard - JAC ( WAS )
15 - Ryan Fitzpatrick - BUF ( NE )
16 - Rex Grossman - WAS ( @ JAC )
17 - Jay Cutler - CHI ( NYJ )
18 - Tim Tebow - DEN ( HOU )
19 - Jason Campbell - OAK ( IND )
20 - Matt Cassel - KC ( TEN )
21 - Shaun Hill - DET ( @ MIA )
22 - Carson Palmer - CIN ( SD )
23 - Sam Bradford - STL ( SF )
24 - Chad Henne - MIA ( DET )
25 - Kerry Collins - TEN ( @ KC )

Running Back
Rank - Player - Team ( Opp )
1 - Arian Foster - HOU ( @ DEN )
2 - Darren McFadden - OAK ( IND )
3 - Maurice Jones-Drew - JAC ( WAS )
4 - Chris Johnson - TEN ( @ KC )
5 - Rashard Mendenhall - PIT ( CAR )
6 - Adrian Peterson - MIN ( @ PHI )
7 - Jamaal Charles - KC ( TEN )
8 - Ray Rice - BAL ( @ CLE )
9 - Michael Turner - ATL ( NO )
10 - Steven Jackson - STL ( SF )
11 - LeSean McCoy - PHI ( MIN )
12 - Peyton Hillis - CLE ( BAL )
13 - BenJarvus Green-Ellis - NE ( @ BUF )
14 - Knowshon Moreno - DEN ( HOU )
15 - LeGarrette Blount - TB ( SEA )
16 - Ryan Torain - WAS ( @ JAC )
17 - Ahmad Bradshaw - NYG ( @ GB )
18 - Cedric Benson - CIN ( SD )
19 - Matt Forte - CHI ( NYJ )
20 - Mike Tolbert - SD ( @ CIN )
21 - Fred Jackson - BUF ( NE )
22 - Jonathan Stewart - CAR ( @ PIT )
23 - Donald Brown - IND ( @ OAK )
24 - Thomas Jones - KC ( TEN )
25 - Felix Jones - DAL ( @ ARZ )
26 - Tim Hightower - ARZ ( DAL )
27 - Tashard Choice - DAL ( @ ARZ )
28 - Ronnie Brown - MIA ( DET )
29 - Brandon Jacobs - NYG ( @ GB )
30 - Marshawn Lynch - SEA ( @ TB )
31 - Brian Westbrook - SF ( @ STL )
32 - Danny Woodhead - NE ( @ BUF )
33 - Ryan Mathews - SD ( @ CIN )
34 - Pierre Thomas - NO ( @ ATL )
35 - LaDainian Tomlinson - NYJ ( @ CHI )
36 - Brandon Jackson - GB ( NYG )
37 - Maurice Morris - DET ( @ MIA )
38 - Ricky Williams - MIA ( DET )
39 - Shonn Greene - NYJ ( @ CHI )
40 - Chris Ivory - NO ( @ ATL )
41 - Michael Bush - OAK ( IND )
42 - Mike Goodson - CAR ( @ PIT )
43 - Rashad Jennings - JAC ( WAS )
44 - Derrick Ward - HOU ( @ DEN )
45 - Jahvid Best - DET ( @ MIA )
46 - Anthony Dixon - SF ( @ STL )
47 - Reggie Bush - NO ( @ ATL )
48 - Toby Gerhart - MIN ( @ PHI )
49 - Beanie Wells - ARZ ( DAL )
50 - Darren Sproles - SD ( @ CIN )

Wide Receiver
Rank - Player - Team ( Opp )
1 - Andre Johnson - HOU ( @ DEN )
2 - Calvin Johnson - DET ( @ MIA )
3 - Roddy White - ATL ( NO )
4 - Greg Jennings - GB ( NYG )
5 - Reggie Wayne - IND ( @ OAK )
6 - Larry Fitzgerald - ARZ ( DAL )
7 - Marques Colston - NO ( @ ATL )
8 - Hakeem Nicks - NYG ( @ GB )
9 - Vincent Jackson - SD ( @ CIN )
10 - DeSean Jackson - PHI ( MIN )
11 - Jeremy Maclin - PHI ( MIN )
12 - Brandon Marshall - MIA ( DET )
13 - Mike Williams - TB ( SEA )
14 - Kenny Britt - TEN ( @ KC )
15 - Miles Austin - DAL ( @ ARZ )
16 - Wes Welker - NE ( @ BUF )
17 - Santana Moss - WAS ( @ JAC )
18 - Brandon Lloyd - DEN ( HOU )
19 - Dwayne Bowe - KC ( TEN )
20 - Mike Wallace - PIT ( CAR )
21 - Santonio Holmes - NYJ ( @ CHI )
22 - Steve Johnson - BUF ( NE )
23 - Pierre Garcon - IND ( @ OAK )
24 - Deion Branch - NE ( @ BUF )
25 - Anquan Boldin - BAL ( @ CLE )
26 - Mike Sims-Walker - JAC ( WAS )
27 - Mario Manningham - NYG ( @ GB )
28 - Mike Williams - SEA ( @ TB )
29 - Malcom Floyd - SD ( @ CIN )
30 - Hines Ward - PIT ( CAR )
31 - Sidney Rice - MIN ( @ PHI )
32 - Percy Harvin - MIN ( @ PHI )
33 - Chad Ochocinco - CIN ( SD )
34 - Lance Moore - NO ( @ ATL )
35 - Derrick Mason - BAL ( @ CLE )
36 - Braylon Edwards - NYJ ( @ CHI )
37 - Johnny Knox - CHI ( NYJ )
38 - Michael Crabtree - SF ( @ STL )
39 - Donald Driver - GB ( NYG )
40 - Anthony Armstrong - WAS ( @ JAC )
41 - Danny Woodhead - NE ( @ BUF )
42 - Davone Bess - MIA ( DET )
43 - James Jones - GB ( NYG )
44 - Steve Smith - CAR ( @ PIT )
45 - Mike Thomas - JAC ( WAS )
46 - Blair White - IND ( @ OAK )
47 - Steve Breaston - ARZ ( DAL )
48 - Danny Amendola - STL ( SF )
49 - David Nelson - BUF ( NE )
50 - Robert Meachem - NO ( @ ATL )

Tight End
Rank - Player - Team ( Opp )
1 - Jason Witten - DAL ( @ ARZ )
2 - Vernon Davis - SF ( @ STL )
3 - Jacob Tamme - IND ( @ OAK )
4 - Marcedes Lewis - JAC ( WAS )
5 - Tony Gonzalez - ATL ( NO )
6 - Chris Cooley - WAS ( @ JAC )
7 - Owen Daniels - HOU ( @ DEN )
8 - Kevin Boss - NYG ( @ GB )
9 - Kellen Winslow - TB ( SEA )
10 - Zach Miller - OAK ( IND )
11 - Aaron Hernandez - NE ( @ BUF )
12 - Brent Celek - PHI ( MIN )
13 - Brandon Pettigrew - DET ( @ MIA )
14 - Rob Gronkowski - NE ( @ BUF )
15 - Benjamin Watson - CLE ( BAL )
16 - Dustin Keller - NYJ ( @ CHI )
17 - Visanthe Shiancoe - MIN ( @ PHI )
18 - Jimmy Graham - NO ( @ ATL )
19 - Greg Olsen - CHI ( NYJ )
20 - Heath Miller - PIT ( CAR )

Kicker
Rank - Player - Team ( Opp )
1 - David Akers - PHI ( MIN )
2 - Sebastian Janikowski - OAK ( IND )
3 - Matt Bryant - ATL ( NO )
4 - Nate Kaeding - SD ( @ CIN )
5 - Rob Bironas - TEN ( @ KC )
6 - Adam Vinatieri - IND ( @ OAK )
7 - Shayne Graham - NE ( @ BUF )
8 - Garrett Hartley - NO ( @ ATL )
9 - Neil Rackers - HOU ( @ DEN )
10 - Lawrence Tynes - NYG ( @ GB )
11 - Jay Feely - ARZ ( DAL )
12 - Matt Prater - DEN ( HOU )
13 - Robbie Gould - CHI ( NYJ )
14 - Mason Crosby - GB ( NYG )
15 - Dan Carpenter - MIA ( DET )
16 - Billy Cundiff - BAL ( @ CLE )
17 - David Buehler - DAL ( @ ARZ )
18 - Nick Folk - NYJ ( @ CHI )
19 - Ryan Longwell - MIN ( @ PHI )
20 - Josh Brown - STL ( SF )

Defense
Rank - Team ( Opp )
1 - Steelers ( CAR )
2 - Eagles ( MIN )
3 - Jets ( @ CHI )
4 - Bears ( NYJ )
5 - Patriots ( @ BUF )
6 - Chargers ( @ CIN )
7 - Packers ( NYG )
8 - Ravens ( @ CLE )
9 - Cowboys ( @ ARZ )
10 - Giants ( @ GB )
11 - Titans ( @ KC )
12 - Dolphins ( DET )
13 - Buccaneers ( SEA )
14 - Saints ( @ ATL )
15 - Cardinals ( DAL )
16 - Chiefs ( TEN )
17 - Falcons ( NO )
18 - 49ers ( @ STL )
19 - Browns ( BAL )
20 - Rams ( SF )

LOTS of changes this week with all of the injuries
Link to last minute decisions too: http://rotoexperts.com/showthread.php?id=&art=1254&sid=

QB:
6. Schaub down to 14 without Andre J
7. Rodgers down to 13 (behind Ben - not sure he does better than that and is always a risk to be knocked back out)

RB:
3. MJD drops out
6. AP drops to 12 - I'd start the others ahead of him given his injury - and wouldn't wait on AP for any RB1 or RB2 unless I had Gerhart
12. Hillis down to 16 (behind Torain) since a bit gimpy
14. Moreno down to 18 since still worrisome
23. Brown all the way down to 45 with Addai back
25. Felix down to 34 with Barber and Choice sharing
27. Choice down to 33 - think he might still do better than Felix now - but who knows??
31. Westbrook up to 25 with Dixon likely seeing nada
43. Jennings WAY up to 13 right behind BJGE
48. Gerhart all depends on AP

WR:
1. Andre likely out altogether
17. S Moss up to 15 ahead of Austin
21. Holmes down to 25
26. MSW out - even if plays, not enough to risk use
29. Floyd out - see MSW
33. Ocho out - see Floyd and MSW
40. Armstrong up to 34 behind Moore

2010-12-15T12:43:00.000-08:00

All in Sports Fantasy Advice
Week 15 - Football Breakdown and Rankings

It’s finally over. No, I don’t mean Brett Favre’s streak (I have cars that didn’t last as long). I’m talking about the majority of owners’ seasons. Week 14 is in the books meaning many teams are out of the playoffs or were just eliminated. You can tell just how much of an impact it has as forums, question submissions, and emails dry up exponentially.

Like Brett Favre, it’s a week to savor the memories. Not to get sappy, but for the many owners who are now focusing on their NBA or College Basketball teams, putting together their Pick ‘Em submissions for the College Bowls (Pick 'Em Help), or even looking WAY ahead to Fantasy Baseball, remember the fun you had.

Just because the season/streak is over, it doesn’t mean your happiness is. In fact, you can probably enjoy your Sundays more now that there is no stress or worry about your team pulling out a win. As much as it stinks to be eliminated, there is always a bright side. Look at it this way; you also don’t have to listen to anymore Favre talk for the first time since 1937…wait, what’s that? He’s NOT ruled out for Week 15 yet?! Noooo!

Moving on, for the rest of the owners who are still in it, get your Pepto Bismol ready because it’s the most stressful time of the year. Just remember one thing. I’ve said it before and will again, dance with the one who brought you. It’s not time to get cute. Just because Ryan Torain blew up last week doesn’t mean you start him over Jamaal Charles and his rough week. Look at Andre Johnson, Chris Johnson, Maurice Jones-Drew, Peyton Manning, Michael Turner, etc., etc., etc. These are the players who get teams to championships every year, and no one is perfect. They’ve all had a few stumbles, but they win you more games than not. Like Tammy Wynette says, “Stand by Your Man…”

Settling Up Week 14

Top Pair (players who guaranteed a good week)

Matt Schaub – If you were a Schaub owner (like me), you were panicking even after the TD pass at the end of the first half. Then he pulled a Brady and went off in the second half finishing with 393 yards, three TDs and two INTs on 31-for-62 passing. How many last-minute wins did that equal for owners?

Darren McFadden/Michael Turner – For DMC, it doesn’t get much better that his game against Jacksonville…well, except the Denver one. Oh, look who’s on tap? Turner hit pay-dirt three times and now has four straight weeks with 14 or more points and six of his last seven.

DeSean Jackson/Andre Johnson – Have you ever seen anyone do more with four catches than what DJax did? 210 yards and a TD on just four receptions! He’s back. Speaking of being back, Andre Johnson hit 140 yards receiving for the second straight week and found the end zone twice. There’s a reason he’s the best.

River Rat (players who surprised everyone)

Ryan Torain – I felt great for the few owners I recommended Torain. Before you think I had Marty McFly’s almanac to call this one, it was only over RBs like Lynch and Donald Brown. Fact is, no one saw a 172-yard day coming, especially in a Shanahan-led backfield.

Tim Hightower – Beanie Wells is officially done. Hightower continues to do more with his chances, and that’s exactly what happened against Denver. Okay, fair enough, the Broncos could stop my 14 year-old nephew, but 148 yards and two TDs still mean something.

Jay Feely – We should rename this category to the Jay Feely award. Here’s hoping you didn’t face a team with Feely as the kicker. A rushing TD for a kicker? Are you serious? 28 Fantasy points! This is why I want to eliminate the kicker position…who wants to lose on a fluke? Fantasy already has enough of a luck factor built in.

Gut Shot (players who let everyone down)

Aaron Rodgers – The concussion forced Rodgers from the game, thus ending his day and the season for many owners. The thing is, he didn’t look too great before that in any case. Either way, that hurt in more ways than one.

Adrian Peterson – Think the Giants’ gameplan was to let Tarvaris Jackson try to beat them? Actually, it may have just been crush everyone like they’ve done all year. ADP had his worst game of the season with just 26 yards on 14 attempts. Time to reevaluate rankings for RBs facing the GMen.

Brandon Lloyd/Dwayne Bowe – This pair is called out two weeks in a row. The only difference is they weren’t playing each other this time. Bowe laid his second goose egg in a row, and Lloyd put up just three points in his second straight game. They still rank No. 1 and 2 on the year, but that won’t last past Week 15.

What’s the Deal for Week 15?

All In (players I’m high on)

Michael Vick – It’s easy to have faith in the highest per-game average QB. However, the last time he faced the Giants he did not throw for a TD. To be fair, he did run one in and still put up 19 Fantasy points. Ah, who am I kidding…it is too easy to like Vick.

Peyton Manning – 1,365 yards and 10 TDs in his past four games. Again, the ONLY thing stopping Manning was the interceptions. Lo and behold, he doesn’t throw one against Tennessee. Now, Indy plays Jacksonville at home in a must-win game. You should be giddy with excitement for the possibilities.

Jon Kitna – Except for his game against Green Bay, Kitna has double-digit points each week. Washington is terrible against the pass, the game is in Dallas, and Kitna is back in a grove with Jason Witten. It should be a good week.

Chris Johnson – “Stand by Your Man”…that song has never rang more true. CJ2K is one of the most talented players in the league and two hiccups didn’t change that. No, he’s going to avenge his zero-point effort in Week 12 against Houston.

Maurice Jones-Drew – Six straight games with over 100 yards on the ground and 21 or more rushing attempts. Those worried that Rashad Jennings is going to steal anything just because he has a TD in his last three games need not worry. MJD will roll to his seventh 100-yard game in a row.

Darren McFadden (Ace in the Hole) – Remember how good I said DMC would have it come playoff time. Well, we’re here and that’s one game in the books. The crazy thing is Denver (this week) and Indy (next week) are worse against the run than Jacksonville. The sky is the limit.

Reggie Wayne – Pierre Garcon caught two TD passes from Peyton last week leaving Wayne with just…oh look…106 receiving yards. We already covered the must-win matchup against the Jaguars. Wayne will benefit from Peyton’s performance again.

Malcom Floyd – Vincent Jackson still isn’t 100%, and Antonio Gates is likely out for the game against the 49ers. Guess who Rivers will look to early and often? Yup, it’ll be a big day for the big guy (6-5”, 225 in case you never knew).

Marques Colston – He’s the quintessential gambler’s WR. With the number of options in New Orleans, there is always the concern he could be left out of the passing game. That hasn’t been the case whatsoever since Week 7. With 46 receptions, 581 yards and seven TDs in that seven-game stretch, it’d be a surprise if his numbers didn’t continue.

Vernon Davis – I’ll say it again, all he needed to do was get healthy. The Chargers are weak against the TE position, and Davis is a stud. It’s as simple as that.

Muck ‘Em (players I’m down on)

Jay Cutler – Here’s hoping after tanking his favorable matchup against Detroit, you learned your lesson. You can’t blame the weather either, hello Tom Brady. Cutler is simply too inconsistent, risk-loving, and mistake-prone to rely on for anything…unless you’re looking for turnovers that is.

Alex Smith (The Flop) – He’s done it before; made the 49ers and fans believe he’s worthwhile of his No. 1 draft pick status. However, a three-TD game is more of a rarity than a commonality for Smith, and the Chargers rank first against opposing QBs.

Mark Sanchez – Sanchez must love the number three. Look at his season from Week 2 on. Three good games, three terrible ones, three good, three bad. If you follow that flow, this week is in line for a big one. Too bad it’s against Pittsburgh, and on the road…time to break the streak of threes.

Brian Westbrook – Don’t let the 16 Fantasy points fool you. The majority of that was on one reception and due to poor tackling. He still only received nine carries for the second straight week, and Anthony Dixon is getting the goal line work. San Diego won’t be as inept at tackling Westbrook so don’t expect double-digits again.

LaDainian Tomlinson – It was warned weeks ago that his YPC average was plummeting, and Shonn Greene was seeing more opportunities. Now LT faces the toughest run defense in the league. He had four points last week and will be lucky to see that much on Sunday.

Marshawn Lynch – That game against Carolina was a fluke. It was mentioned last week, and now is again just in case the message didn’t get through. Atlanta is in the Top 5 for least points allowed to RBs. The 49ers are 10^th just as a point of reference. Find another option at RB.

Derrick Mason – Anyone can pass on Houston, anyone. Remember that before you expect another big game from Mason. The Saints are the stingiest team for WR Fantasy points, and Mason is still the second option behind Boldin.

Hines Ward – The last time Ward saw the end zone was in Week 9 against Cincinnati. Even then, he only put up 10 receiving yards. Now the Steelers face the Jets in a big game for both teams with Roethlisberger still hobbled by injuries.

Michael Crabtree – I’m convinced Alex Smith doesn’t like Crabtree. Even in his decent two-game stretch with Alex at QB (in Weeks 5 and 6), it appeared Crabtree was his last choice when dropping back. In his return, Smith connected with Crabtree just once for one yard. It won’t get much better against the Chargers.

Dustin Keller – Repeat after me, “Keller stopped being a TE1 a long time ago.” Owners seem to give everyone on the Jets the longest ropes of any players, and then end up hanging themselves. Stop relying on Keller…no seriously, stop it!

Quarterback

Rank - Player - Team ( Opp )
1 - Peyton Manning - IND ( JAC )
2 - Michael Vick - PHI ( @ NYG )
3 - Tom Brady - NE ( GB )
4 - Drew Brees - NO ( @ BAL )
5 - Philip Rivers - SD ( SF )
6 - Matt Schaub - HOU ( @ TEN )
7 - Matt Ryan - ATL ( @ SEA )
8 - Jon Kitna - DAL ( WAS )
9 - Joe Flacco - BAL ( NO )
10 - Eli Manning - NYG ( PHI )
11 - Josh Freeman - TB ( DET )
12 - David Garrard - JAC ( @ IND )
13 - Ben Roethlisberger - PIT ( NYJ )
14 - Kerry Collins - TEN ( HOU )
15 - Jay Cutler - CHI ( @ MIN )
16 - Aaron Rodgers - GB ( @ NE )
17 - Jason Campbell - OAK ( DEN )
18 - Donovan McNabb - WAS ( @ DAL )
19 - Carson Palmer - CIN ( CLE )
20 - Kyle Orton - DEN ( @ OAK )
21 - Matt Cassel - KC ( @ STL )
22 - Sam Bradford - STL ( KC )
23 - Matt Hasselbeck - SEA ( ATL )
24 - Drew Stanton - DET ( @ TB )
25 - Mark Sanchez - NYJ ( @ PIT )

Running Back
Rank - Player - Team ( Opp )
1 - Maurice Jones-Drew - JAC ( @ IND )
2 - Darren McFadden - OAK ( DEN )
3 - Arian Foster - HOU ( @ TEN )
4 - Michael Turner - ATL ( @ SEA )
5 - Chris Johnson - TEN ( HOU )
6 - Peyton Hillis - CLE ( @ CIN )
7 - Adrian Peterson - MIN ( CHI )
8 - Knowshon Moreno - DEN ( @ OAK )
9 - Jamaal Charles - KC ( @ STL )
10 - LeSean McCoy - PHI ( @ NYG )
11 - Ray Rice - BAL ( NO )
12 - Steven Jackson - STL ( KC )
13 - Jonathan Stewart - CAR ( ARZ )
14 - Rashard Mendenhall - PIT ( NYJ )
15 - Ahmad Bradshaw - NYG ( PHI )
16 - BenJarvus Green-Ellis - NE ( GB )
17 - LeGarrette Blount - TB ( DET )
18 - Brandon Jacobs - NYG ( PHI )
19 - Matt Forte - CHI ( @ MIN )
20 - Ryan Torain - WAS ( @ DAL )
21 - Tim Hightower - ARZ ( @ CAR )
22 - Fred Jackson - BUF ( @ MIA )
23 - Cedric Benson - CIN ( CLE )
24 - Mike Tolbert - SD ( SF )
25 - Felix Jones - DAL ( WAS )
26 - Ronnie Brown - MIA ( BUF )
27 - Thomas Jones - KC ( @ STL )
28 - LaDainian Tomlinson - NYJ ( @ PIT )
29 - Javarris James - IND ( JAC )
30 - Brian Westbrook - SF ( @ SD )
31 - Ricky Williams - MIA ( BUF )
32 - Mike Goodson - CAR ( ARZ )
33 - Ryan Mathews - SD ( SF )
34 - Pierre Thomas - NO ( @ BAL )
35 - Tashard Choice - DAL ( WAS )
36 - Jahvid Best - DET ( @ TB )
37 - Marshawn Lynch - SEA ( ATL )
38 - Danny Woodhead - NE ( GB )
39 - Shonn Greene - NYJ ( @ PIT )
40 - Donald Brown - IND ( JAC )
41 - Michael Bush - OAK ( DEN )
42 - James Starks - GB ( @ NE )
43 - Reggie Bush - NO ( @ BAL )
44 - Brandon Jackson - GB ( @ NE )
45 - Anthony Dixon - SF ( @ SD )
46 - Rashad Jennings - JAC ( @ IND )
47 - Beanie Wells - ARZ ( @ CAR )
48 - Chris Ivory - NO ( @ BAL )
49 - Maurice Morris - DET ( @ TB )
50 - Willis McGahee - BAL ( NO )

Wide Receiver
Rank - Player - Team ( Opp )
1 - Andre Johnson - HOU ( @ TEN )
2 - Roddy White - ATL ( @ SEA )
3 - Reggie Wayne - IND ( JAC )
4 - Calvin Johnson - DET ( @ TB )
5 - Marques Colston - NO ( @ BAL )
6 - DeSean Jackson - PHI ( @ NYG )
7 - Wes Welker - NE ( GB )
8 - Hakeem Nicks - NYG ( PHI )
9 - Miles Austin - DAL ( WAS )
10 - Greg Jennings - GB ( @ NE )
11 - Dwayne Bowe - KC ( @ STL )
12 - Larry Fitzgerald - ARZ ( @ CAR )
13 - Terrell Owens - CIN ( CLE )
14 - Jeremy Maclin - PHI ( @ NYG )
15 - Deion Branch - NE ( GB )
16 - Malcom Floyd - SD ( SF )
17 - Pierre Garcon - IND ( JAC )
18 - Mike Wallace - PIT ( NYJ )
19 - Sidney Rice - MIN ( CHI )
20 - Mike Williams - TB ( DET )
21 - Brandon Lloyd - DEN ( @ OAK )
22 - Kenny Britt - TEN ( HOU )
23 - Anquan Boldin - BAL ( NO )
24 - Santana Moss - WAS ( @ DAL )
25 - Santonio Holmes - NYJ ( @ PIT )
26 - Brandon Marshall - MIA ( BUF )
27 - Steve Johnson - BUF ( @ MIA )
28 - Hines Ward - PIT ( NYJ )
29 - Derrick Mason - BAL ( NO )
30 - Chad Ochocinco - CIN ( CLE )
31 - Vincent Jackson - SD ( SF )
32 - Michael Crabtree - SF ( @ SD )
33 - Mike Sims-Walker - JAC ( @ IND )
34 - Mike Williams - SEA ( ATL )
35 - Johnny Knox - CHI ( @ MIN )
36 - Mario Manningham - NYG ( PHI )
37 - Donald Driver - GB ( @ NE )
38 - Lance Moore - NO ( @ BAL )
39 - Braylon Edwards - NYJ ( @ PIT )
40 - Austin Collie - IND ( JAC )
41 - Steve Smith - CAR ( ARZ )
42 - Blair White - IND ( JAC )
43 - Percy Harvin - MIN ( CHI )
44 - Earl Bennett - CHI ( @ MIN )
45 - Roy Williams - DAL ( WAS )
46 - Anthony Armstrong - WAS ( @ DAL )
47 - Davone Bess - MIA ( BUF )
48 - Danny Woodhead - NE ( GB )
49 - Mike Thomas - JAC ( @ IND )
50 - Louis Murphy - OAK ( DEN )

Tight End
Rank - Player - Team ( Opp )
1 - Vernon Davis - SF ( @ SD )
2 - Jason Witten - DAL ( WAS )
3 - Jacob Tamme - IND ( JAC )
4 - Tony Gonzalez - ATL ( @ SEA )
5 - Marcedes Lewis - JAC ( @ IND )
6 - Chris Cooley - WAS ( @ DAL )
7 - Zach Miller - OAK ( DEN )
8 - Owen Daniels - HOU ( @ TEN )
9 - Kellen Winslow - TB ( DET )
10 - Kevin Boss - NYG ( PHI )
11 - Rob Gronkowski - NE ( GB )
12 - Brandon Pettigrew - DET ( @ TB )
13 - Dustin Keller - NYJ ( @ PIT )
14 - Bo Scaife - TEN ( HOU )
15 - Benjamin Watson - CLE ( @ CIN )
16 - Aaron Hernandez - NE ( GB )
17 - Brent Celek - PHI ( @ NYG )
18 - Greg Olsen - CHI ( @ MIN )
19 - Jermaine Gresham - CIN ( CLE )
20 - Visanthe Shiancoe - MIN ( CHI )
21 - Tony Moeaki - KC ( @ STL )
22 - Todd Heap - BAL ( NO )
23 - Heath Miller - PIT ( NYJ )
24 - Anthony Fasano - MIA ( BUF )
25 - Randy McMichael - SD ( SF )

Kicker
Rank - Player - Team ( Opp )
1 - David Akers - PHI ( @ NYG )
2 - Dan Carpenter - MIA ( BUF )
3 - Sebastian Janikowski - OAK ( DEN )
4 - Nate Kaeding - SD ( SF )
5 - Rob Bironas - TEN ( HOU )
6 - Neil Rackers - HOU ( @ TEN )
7 - Adam Vinatieri - IND ( JAC )
8 - Matt Bryant - ATL ( @ SEA )
9 - Garrett Hartley - NO ( @ BAL )
10 - Jay Feely - ARZ ( @ CAR )
11 - Shayne Graham - NE ( GB )
12 - Josh Scobee - JAC ( @ IND )
13 - Billy Cundiff - BAL ( NO )
14 - Mason Crosby - GB ( @ NE )
15 - Robbie Gould - CHI ( @ MIN )
16 - Lawrence Tynes - NYG ( PHI )
17 - Matt Prater - DEN ( @ OAK )
18 - Ryan Succop - KC ( @ STL )
19 - Ryan Longwell - MIN ( CHI )
20 - Josh Brown - STL ( KC )

Defense
Rank - Team ( Opp )
1 - Steelers ( NYJ )
2 - Bears ( @ MIN )
3 - Chargers ( SF )
4 - Patriots ( GB )
5 - Jets ( @ PIT )
6 - Falcons ( @ SEA )
7 - Giants ( PHI )
8 - Eagles ( @ NYG )
9 - Vikings ( CHI )
10 - Browns ( @ CIN )
11 - Raiders ( DEN )
12 - Ravens ( NO )
13 - Dolphins ( BUF )
14 - Saints ( @ BAL )
15 - Cowboys ( WAS )
16 - Cardinals ( @ CAR )
17 - Packers ( @ NE )
18 - Buccaneers ( DET )
19 - Titans ( HOU )
20 - Rams ( KC )
21 - 49ers ( @ SD )
22 - Chiefs ( @ STL )
23 - Bengals ( CLE )
24 - Colts ( JAC )
25 - Panthers ( ARZ )

2010-12-08T11:46:00.001-08:00

All in Sports Fantasy Advice
Week 14 - Football Breakdown and Rankings

Is there a must-lose situation? Or, to be more fair, is there a doesn’t-matter-if-I-lose situation? It’s the time of year where I see a myriad of questions starting with, “It’s a must-win situation” or “I cannot afford to lose this week.” Outside of the rare instances where you’ve run the table and your seeding is set, every game is one you need to win. Even if you don’t need to, everyone wants to win.

That said, I’ve also been surprised at the number of people who would be happier seeing their favorite team lose than their Fantasy team. To quote Keenan (or whatever his name is) from SNL, “What’s up with that?!” Let’s not go overboard here.

Fantasy football is a game where you sit in a chair, read up on stats, information, predictions, etc. None of us actually performs anything…unless you count clicking the mouse buttons to move players into starting or bench spots performing. If that’s the case, there are millions of talented people out there.

The reason I say all of this is because I want you to enjoy yourselves. Many are in multiple leagues, and you can’t win them all, or given the odds, any at all. Instead of spending your entire Sunday watching your box scores and being mad at every TD scored or goal line opportunity lost, relax and enjoy yourself. Just look at last week of why it’s not worth the aggravation – Matt Cassel, Kyle Orton, Dwayne Bowe, Brandon Lloyd and even Chris Johnson (again) left owners high and dry. There is nothing you can do about it, and no amount of planning, clicking or yelling at the TV would have helped. That’s why it’s the most fun and frustrating game in Fantasy sports…so focus on the first part since that’s all you can control.

Settling Up Week 13

Top Pair (players who guaranteed a good week)

Tom Brady – How do you follow up a 341-yard, four-TD performance? By doing it again, only against a vastly superior defense. He threw four TDs again and only 15 less yards. He’s making a case for another MVP.

Adrian Peterson – So much for being hurt. Actually, so much for being even 50%. ADP ran over Buffalo all-day for 107 yards and three TDs. I don’t even remember what he injured in Week 12.

Reggie Wayne – There he is. There’s the Reggie Wayne we’ve come to love. 200 yards and a score with 14 receptions, it’s about time. That’s only his third game with 100 or more yards. Hopefully, he’s getting hot at the best possible time.

River Rat (players who surprised everyone)

Drew Stanton – Who has two thumbs, is the third option for the Lions and was the fifth-best QB last week? This guy…well, that guy, but you get the point. It helped that one of his two TDs was a rushing one, but no one expected a Fantasy-worthy game from Drew.

Marshawn Lynch – It is easily a surprise when you totaled more Fantasy points than your previous six games combined. Hope someone was helped by his performance…anyone? Seriously, did anybody use him?

Sidney Rice – Last week it Jacoby Ford with the acrobatic catches, this week Sidney Rice. He took over with Percy Harvin out and showed his amazing athleticism, especially on his first TD. With a rough schedule coming up, that may be his best game until Detroit in Week 17.

Gut Shot (players who let everyone down)

Kyle Orton/Matt Cassel – There was supposed to be a litany of Fantasy options in this game. Two of them were QBs who were on fire as of late. Too bad, both of them must have been dumped in ice-baths. Cassel had the better day of the two, but fact is, even if you combined their performances, they would finish at the 12^th best option last week.

Chris Johnson – The Jaguars are one of the worst defensive teams in the league. Don’t tell that to CJ2K as he let his owners down for the second straight week. He gained just 53 yards without scoring for the third straight time…thanks Mr. No. 1 pick.

Brandon Lloyd/Dwayne Bowe – Speaking of letting owners down. Two WRs who were in everyone’s top-10 lists looked even worse than their QBs. Lloyd put up three points (his lowest total on the year) while Bowe laid an egg. You hate to see this as many owners lost playoff hopes as a result.

What’s the Deal for Week 14?

All In (players I’m high on)

Joe Flacco – In case you need to be reminded, or having been living on the other side of the world, the Texans allow the most Fantasy points to quarterbacks, by far. They’ve given up the most passing yards and TDs giving QBs a full three-point advantage over No. 2 Denver. Flacco is one of the most consistent QBs in the league, and since Week 3, he’s scored double-digits ever week.

Philip Rivers – He’s had two off-weeks, but that will end for Rivers. This is still the same QB who threw for two or more TDs in eight of 10 games to start the year. This is a huge game for the Chargers if they want any hope at the division, and it’s at home…expect good things.

Josh Freeman – He was down on the list last week, but expect an upswing this week. He’s thrown for a TD in every week except the one game against Pittsburgh in Week 3. He won’t light up the scoreboard, but given the terrific matchup against Washington, you could do worse.

Peyton Hillis – One of the most impressive stories of the year, Hillis failed to score for the first time since Week 6. You can’t get a much better setup for a bounce-back game than to face Buffalo. With the passing game in shambles, there will be a heavy dose of the Polar Express this week…no on the nickname? Not even with it being seasonably relevant? Okay, I’ll try again next time.

Knowshon Moreno – If you’ve been following along this year, you know I’ve been hammering home how much I like Moreno for the stretch run. Things have been good of late with four straight double-digit games, and they are going to get even better. Denver faces pitiful Arizona this week who allows more Fantasy points to RBs than anyone else in the league.

Rashard Mendenhall – It’s tough to expect good things from a RB who’s scored in the single-digits in three of his last four games, but Mendenhall is due. With Big Ben ailing, Heath Miller likely out and the Steelers making a run at the division, Mendenhall will be leaned on this week.

Greg Jennings (Ace in the Hole) – What do you know, another player I told people to hold on to, trade for, and expect good things from…no, I’m not patting my own back...okay, maybe a little. Jennings has seven straight games with five or more catches and over 100 yards receiving in each of the past three. You think the Lions have any chance at stopping him? It’s the Lions!

Roddy White – It’s feels like bounce-back week is in session. White cannot be held down too long. Even though he’s been less than his early to mid-season self, he’s still managed 21 catches in the past three games. Carolina has a decent secondary, but Atlanta should have the ball enough for White to take advantage at least once or twice.

Anquan Boldin – Where have you been Mr. Boldin? After topping 100 yards twice in his first three games, Boldin finally did so again for the first time since Week 3. Did you already forget Houston allows the most Fantasy points to QBs? Hope not because that means good things for WRs too as they give up the fourth most points in that area as well.

Vernon Davis – The more important part about Davis' current profile is that he's healthy. When he's 100%, he is one of the best TEs in league. Alex Smith returns this week, but that won't stop Davis from being one of the best TE options especially with how many injuries there are at the position.

Muck ‘Em (players I’m down on)

Matt Cassel – He was one of the league’s hottest players until everyone was shocked at the low-scoring, run-fest against Denver. Don’t expect things to get much better this week, or possibly the rest of the year. The Chargers rank second only to New Orleans in least points allowed to QBs, and both St. Louis and Tennessee rank in the top 15 for the same.

Sam Bradford (The Flop) – While he’s one of the league’s most talented young QBs, he’s not one of the top Fantasy options. The game against the Broncos will likely be his highlight of the year as the Saints are the stingiest team for opposing QBs.

Carson Palmer – Palmer has attempted a high number of passes this year, but doesn’t have the corresponding success. He’s only thrown for three TDs once and has three games in single-digits for points. Now, he’s on the road in Pittsburgh, forget using him.

Brian Westbrook – This is more of a situation problem than a matchup issue as Seattle is rather weak against the run. The fact is we all know how brittle Westbrook is including the 49ers coaches. You simply cannot count on him getting a large amount of carries, plus Anthony Dixon will see the goal line touches.

Brandon Jackson – Jackson already proved he was not the answer at RB for the Packers. Now, the much-hyped James Starks has finally made an appearance. Don’t be fooled by the RB rotation rumors, the Packers will see what they have in Starks meaning Jackson’s value (what little there was) is kaput.

Cedric Benson – Running backs don’t run on the Steelers and that include Benson. He managed to score last time against Pittsburgh, but you can’t expect that again. Without that TD, he would have had only five points. The Browns and Chargers (rest of the playoff schedule) are both in the top half for least points allowed to RBs so expect mediocre numbers from here on out.

Roy Williams – It’s not that I don’t think he’ll be the one to step in for Dez Bryant (surgery), it’s just expectations are a bit too high from owners. Tashard Choice showed his talent yet again and will see more chances. Plus, a division matchup against Philadelphia looms, and Miles Austin and Jason Witten will see the first looks from Jon Kitna.

Danny Amendola – It’s Amendola, it’s Brandon Gibson, it’s Laurent Robinson, who knows…every week it seems like one of the Rams receivers will finally take control as the No. 1 option. As previously mentioned, the Saints secondary is quite good meaning Amendola won’t be stepping up this week.

Larry Fitzgerald – John Skelton – that’s all I need to say. Okay, maybe a little more, but Skelton’s first start is not something to be excited about. Fitzgerald was already having a slow go of it lately, and Skelton will struggle to either get Fitzgerald the ball or try to force it too much resulting in turnovers.

Jeremy Shockey – The last thing the Saints need is more receiving options. Shockey returned to see only two catches for 28 yards while Jimmy Graham saw more targets and yards. With David Thomas still in the fold, and the number of WR options in New Orleans, avoid all of the Saints TEs.

Quarterback
Rank - Player - Team ( Opp )
1 - Aaron Rodgers - GB ( @ DET )
2 - Michael Vick - PHI ( @ DAL )
3 - Drew Brees - NO ( STL )
4 - Tom Brady - NE ( @ CHI )
5 - Philip Rivers - SD ( KC )
6 - Peyton Manning - IND ( @ TEN )
7 - Joe Flacco - BAL ( @ HOU )
8 - Jake Delhomme - CLE ( @ BUF )
9 - Ben Roethlisberger - PIT ( CIN )
10 - Kyle Orton - DEN ( @ ARZ )
11 - Jay Cutler - CHI ( NE )
12 - Eli Manning - NYG ( @ MIN )
13 - Matt Ryan - ATL ( @ CAR )
14 - Matt Schaub - HOU ( BAL )
15 - Jon Kitna - DAL ( PHI )
16 - Josh Freeman - TB ( @ WAS )
17 - Ryan Fitzpatrick - BUF ( CLE )
18 - David Garrard - JAC ( OAK )
19 - Carson Palmer - CIN ( @ PIT )
20 - Mark Sanchez - NYJ ( MIA )
21 - Donovan McNabb - WAS ( TB )
22 - Sam Bradford - STL ( @ NO )
23 - Brett Favre - MIN ( NYG )
24 - Jason Campbell - OAK ( @ JAC )

Running Back
Rank - Player - Team ( Opp )
1 - Peyton Hillis - CLE ( @ BUF )
2 - Adrian Peterson - MIN ( NYG )
3 - Michael Turner - ATL ( @ CAR )
4 - Maurice Jones-Drew - JAC ( OAK )
5 - Arian Foster - HOU ( BAL )
6 - Knowshon Moreno - DEN ( @ ARZ )
7 - Chris Johnson - TEN ( IND )
8 - Rashard Mendenhall - PIT ( CIN )
9 - LeSean McCoy - PHI ( @ DAL )
10 - Jamaal Charles - KC ( @ SD )
11 - Ray Rice - BAL ( @ HOU )
12 - Steven Jackson - STL ( @ NO )
13 - Darren McFadden - OAK ( @ JAC )
14 - Matt Forte - CHI ( NE )
15 - LeGarrette Blount - TB ( @ WAS )
16 - Ahmad Bradshaw - NYG ( @ MIN )
17 - Fred Jackson - BUF ( CLE )
18 - LaDainian Tomlinson - NYJ ( MIA )
19 - Cedric Benson - CIN ( @ PIT )
20 - BenJarvus Green-Ellis - NE ( @ CHI )
21 - Jonathan Stewart - CAR ( ATL )
22 - Chris Ivory - NO ( STL )
23 - Brandon Jacobs - NYG ( @ MIN )
24 - Thomas Jones - KC ( @ SD )
25 - Felix Jones - DAL ( PHI )
26 - Mike Tobert - SD ( KC )
27 - James Starks - GB ( @ DET )
28 - Tashard Choice - DAL ( PHI )
29 - Brian Westbrook - SF ( SEA )
30 - Tim Hightower - ARZ ( DEN )
31 - Marshawn Lynch - SEA ( @ SF )
32 - Ronnie Brown - MIA ( @ NYJ )
33 - Anthony Dixon - SF ( SEA )
34 - Shonn Greene - NYJ ( MIA )
35 - Jahvid Best - DET ( GB )
36 - Danny Woodhead - NE ( @ CHI )
37 - Donald Brown - IND ( @ TEN )
38 - Mike Goodson - CAR ( ATL )
39 - Brandon Jackson - GB ( @ DET )
40 - Javarris James - IND ( @ TEN )
41 - James Davis - WAS ( TB )
42 - Ricky Williams - MIA ( @ NYJ )
43 - Michael Bush - OAK ( @ JAC )
44 - Beanie Wells - ARZ ( DEN )
45 - Maurice Morris - DET ( GB )
46 - Keiland Williams - WAS ( TB )
47 - Ryan Mathews - SD ( KC )
48 - Justin Forsett - SEA ( @ SF )
49 - Reggie Bush - NO ( STL )
50 - Pierre Thomas - NO ( STL )

Wide Receiver
Rank - Player - Team ( Opp )
1 - Greg Jennings - GB ( @ DET )
2 - Reggie Wayne - IND ( @ TEN )
3 - Roddy White - ATL ( @ CAR )
4 - Andre Johnson - HOU ( BAL )
5 - Calvin Johnson - DET ( GB )
6 - Marques Colston - NO ( STL )
7 - Brandon Lloyd - DEN ( @ ARZ )
8 - Jeremy Maclin - PHI ( @ DAL )
9 - Dwayne Bowe - KC ( @ SD )
10 - DeSean Jackson - PHI ( @ DAL )
11 - Anquan Boldin - BAL ( @ HOU )
12 - Mike Wallace - PIT ( CIN )
13 - Miles Austin - DAL ( PHI )
14 - Mike Williams - TB ( @ WAS )
15 - Wes Welker - NE ( @ CHI )
16 - Terrell Owens - CIN ( @ PIT )
17 - Larry Fitzgerald - ARZ ( DEN )
18 - Steve Johnson - BUF ( CLE )
19 - Sidney Rice - MIN ( NYG )
20 - Santonio Holmes - NYJ ( MIA )
21 - Malcom Floyd - SD ( KC )
22 - Michael Crabtree - SF ( SEA )
23 - Pierre Garcon - IND ( @ TEN)
24 - Mario Manningham - NYG ( @ MIN )
25 - Chad Ochocinco - CIN ( @ PIT )
26 - Hines Ward - PIT ( CIN )
27 - Percy Harvin - MIN ( NYG )
28 - Johnny Knox - CHI ( NE )
29 - Derrick Mason - BAL ( @ HOU )
30 - Deion Branch - NE ( @ CHI )
31 - Santana Moss - WAS ( TB )
32 - Braylon Edwards - NYJ ( MIA )
33 - Donald Driver - GB ( @ DET )
34 - Brandon Marshall - MIA ( @ NYJ )
35 - Steve Smith - CAR ( ATL )
36 - Mike Thomas - JAC ( OAK )
37 - Davone Bess - MIA ( @ NYJ )
38 - Steve Smith - NYG ( @ MIN )
39 - Roy Williams - DAL ( PHI )
40 - Kenny Britt - TEN ( IND )
41 - Lee Evans - BUF ( CLE )
42 - Jacoby Ford - OAK ( @ JAC )
43 - Robert Meachem - NO ( STL )
44 - Steve Breaston - ARZ ( DEN )
45 - Ben Obomanu - SEA ( @ SF )
46 - Lance Moore - NO ( STL )
47 - Blair White - IND ( @ TEN )
48 - Mike Williams - SEA ( @ SF )
49 - James Jones - GB ( @ DET )
50 - Earl Bennett - CHI ( NE )

Tight End
Rank - Player - Team ( Opp )
1 - Antonio Gates - SD ( KC )
2 - Vernon Davis - SF ( SEA )
3 - Jason Witten - DAL ( PHI )
4 - Jacob Tamme - IND ( @ TEN )
5 - Tony Gonzalez - ATL ( @ CAR )
6 - Chris Cooley - WAS ( TB )
7 - Marcedes Lewis - JAC ( OAK )
8 - Dustin Keller - NYJ ( MIA )
9 - Brandon Pettigrew - DET ( GB )
10 - Benjamin Watson - CLE ( @ BUF )
11 - Kellen Winslow - TB ( @ WAS )
12 - Brent Celek - PHI ( @ DAL )
13 - Kevin Boss - NYG ( @ MIN )
14 - Aaron Hernandez - NE ( @ CHI )
15 - Visanthe Shiancoe - MIN ( NYG )
16 - Greg Olsen - CHI ( NE )
17 - Rob Gronkowski - NE ( @ CHI )
18 - Tony Moeaki - KC ( @ SD )
19 - Zach Miller - OAK ( @ JAC )
20 - Jimmy Graham - NO ( STL )
21 - Todd Heap - BAL ( @ HOU )
22 - Ed Dickson - BAL ( @ HOU )
23 - Joel Dreessen - HOU ( BAL )
24 - Owen Daniels - HOU ( BAL )
25 - Jermaine Gresham - CIN ( @ PIT )

Kicker
Rank - Player - Team ( Opp )
1 - David Akers - PHI ( @ DAL )
2 - Mason Crosby - GB ( @ DET )
3 - Rob Bironas - TEN ( IND )
4 - Adam Vinatieri - IND ( @ TEN )
5 - Matt Bryant - ATL ( @ CAR )
6 - Dan Carpenter - MIA ( @ NYJ )
7 - Sebastian Janikowski - OAK ( @ JAC )
8 - Garrett Hartley - NO ( STL )
9 - Nate Kaeding - SD ( KC )
10 - Ryan Longwell - MIN ( NYG )
11 - Matt Prater - DEN ( @ ARZ )
12 - Robbie Gould - CHI ( NE )
13 - Billy Cundiff - BAL ( @ HOU )
14 - Neil Rackers - HOU ( BAL )
15 - Josh Scobee - JAC ( OAK )
16 - Shayne Graham - NE ( @ CHI )
17 - Lawrence Tynes - NYG ( @ MIN )
18 - Nick Folk - NYJ ( MIA )
19 - Josh Brown - STL ( @ NO )
20 - Jay Feely - ARZ ( DEN )

Defense
Rank - Team ( Opp )
1 - Steelers ( CIN )
2 - Packers ( @ DET )
3 - Giants ( @ MIN )
4 - Jets ( MIA )
5 - Falcons ( @ CAR )
6 - Eagles ( @ DAL )
7 - Patriots ( @ CHI )
8 - Ravens ( @ HOU )
9 - Saints ( STL )
10 - 49ers ( SEA )
11 - Bears ( NE )
12 - Vikings ( NYG )
13 - Browns ( @ BUF )
14 - Chargers ( KC )
15 - Titans ( IND )
16 - Buccaneers ( @ WAS )
17 - Broncos ( @ ARZ )
18 - Seahawks ( @ SF )
19 - Chiefs ( @ SD )
20 - Dolphins ( @ NYJ )
21 - Raiders ( @ JAC )
22 - Cowboys ( PHI )
23 - Bengals ( @ PIT )
24 - Colts ( @ TEN )
25 - Jaguars ( OAK )

2010-12-01T11:43:00.000-08:00

All in Sports Fantasy Advice
Week 13 - Football Breakdown and Rankings

It’s the second-to-last or last week of the regular season for Fantasy leagues. Everything is on the line, owners are tense, and hearts will be broken. In my most important league, I need a win to get into the playoffs at 6-6 even with only 20 fewer points than the top-scoring team who is 9-3. That just goes to show, luck is a fickle and cruel mistress.

As we come up on these crucial weeks, several teams are already out of the hunt. The thing not to do as one of these owners is to lose interest or stop caring. As a side note, that is why keeper leagues are a must. It forces owners to pay attention through the end of the year for any possible moves that could affect them long-term.

Think about professional teams. How many times have you heard players say, “We’d love to knock (insert rival’s name) out of the playoffs!” when they're already eliminated? That should be the goals of teams not in the hunt. Make it interesting, have fun with it, and enjoy the role of spoiler.

No one wants to be the guy who was overtaken by a team that would have lost if the opponent had actually tried, just as you would feel the same. So don’t be “that guy.” Don’t take your ball and go home. Throw it deep and play the big risks to make it entertaining for everyone, including you.

Settling Up Week 12

Top Pair (players who guaranteed a good week)

Tom Brady – Going into halftime on Thanksgiving, owners were frustrated and hoping the rest of their team could pick up the slack. Brady had zero TD passes, and it appeared to be a long day for owners. Then, He came out of halftime and scorched the Lions for four TDs and a total of 341 yards. Whew!

Peyton Hillis – Okay who is this guy? Seriously. Hillis looks more like a wrestler than a running back, yet he’s now the second leading RB in Fantasy. 131 yards and three TDs marking his fifth straight double-digit performance…wow. He supplanted Arian Foster for breakout Fantasy player of the year (at least we knew who Foster was).

Dwayne Bowe – For a guy who was on Fantasy league trading-blocks early on, he’s now untouchable. In case you didn’t notice, that’s three games in a row with two or more TDs. He has 32 catches, 465 yards and seven TDs in those games. Unbelievable.

River Rat (players who surprised everyone)

Jay Cutler – Mr. Inconsistent frustrates owners yet again. As most had him on the bench this week, Cutler decided to use his talent for good tossing four TDs with no turnovers…that’s right, NONE. Watch him lay an egg in a favorable Detroit matchup just to spite you.

Fred Jackson – No one runs on the Steelers. No one. Well, unless you are Fred Jackson and do so on a screen pass. Jackson totaled just 59 yards (albeit with a great YPC average), but racked up 104 receiving yards with a TD. No one saw that coming.

Jacoby Ford – If Fantasy points were awarded for amazing catches, Ford would lead all receivers. He totaled 108 yards and a TD, which included a reception where he out-jumped and out-played the defender again. Ford is a highlight reel at WR even with is limited reception total.

Gut Shot (players who let everyone down)

Philip Rivers – All you need to know is that it was the first game of the year Rivers did not top 200 yards passing and throw a TD pass. Both happened in the game against Indy. It was also his first single-digit scoring performance and the first major disappointment for owners.

Chris Johnson – The leading scorer in 2009 gets zero points? Let me say that again. Mr. CJ2K who proclaimed he would hit 2,500 rushing yards was held to five rushing and two receiving yards. Okay, that was just the first drive, right? No? I think everyone is dumbfounded.

Roddy White – White is one of the leading receivers on the year, but put up a soft score of only four points. While he still managed a respectable total for PPR leagues, White’s days of Fantasy’s best receiver are past, and he might not catch back up with how Bowe and Brandon Lloyd have played.

What’s the Deal for Week 13?

All In (players I’m high on)

Michael Vick – What’s not to like? His worst game where the Giants contained him all game still produced 19 Fantasy points. Even with four INTs against Chicago, he managed 23 points. As long as he is healthy, he is the top option at quarterback.

Peyton Manning – So what happens when Peyton has an off-week? Normally, he comes back on fire. What happens when he has seven INTs in two games and faces Dallas…who knows, but I bet it will be GOOD.

Maurice Jones-Drew – MJD didn’t score against the Giants, but not many players have. The good news is he topped 100 rushing yards for the fourth straight week and faces a much weaker defense in Tennessee.

Jamaal Charles – Maybe coach Todd Haley will stick with Charles as the lead back. Then again, maybe I can predict the future and grant wishes. Denver’s defense stinks, Charles had 18 points against them last time, and he just crushed Seattle for 173 yards and a TD.

Michael Turner – Green Bay has allowed the third least amount of points to RBs. That didn’t stop Turner as he rushed for 110 yards and a TD. Conversely, Tampa Bay cannot stop anyone’s run game, and Turner rushed for two TDs last time.

Dwayne Bowe (Ace in the Hole) – All you need to know are the numbers mentioned above. Well, maybe this too – Bowe leads the league with 14 TDs, a number that would be great for a year’s worth. No one can stop him, although my being high on him for two straight weeks probably will.

Brandon Lloyd – Like Bowe, everyone doubted his numbers. And again just like Bowe, people were hesitant to use him even after top-notch games. It’s been time to face the fact Lloyd is a star this year. I say “this” because I do doubt this ever happens again for him.

Mario Manningham – Manningham is still the Giants’ No. 1 WR option with Hakeem Nicks and Steve Smith out. Washington’s defense in the passing game is abysmal. Manny (the non-dreadlock, non-peeing-behind-the-scoreboard, non-flaky one) will have another big day for Big Blue.

Kevin Boss – Speaking of big days for the Giants, Boss rumbled off a nice TD score last week. As mentioned, New York is hurting at WR meaning Boss could see the most targets again this week.

Muck ‘Em (players I’m down on)

Donovan McNabb – McNabb has only thrown for more than one TD once, and he still only managed 13 Fantasy points due to turnovers. The Giants defense has made good QBs look mediocre. No need to tell you what they can do to ones that are already mediocre.

David Garrard (The Flop) – Even with a rushing TD last week, Garrard barely broke into double-digit Fantasy points (12). He’s going to be limited in practice with a wrist injury, and a matchup against a solid Titans secondary already had things looking bleak.

Donald Brown – Brown had shown flashes in the past of being the most explosive back for the Colts. Well, he must have lost it during his injury because he couldn’t take advantage of the starting gig as he performed poorly in each game. Mike Hart is coming back and Jospeh Addai is soon to return as well. What can Brown do for you? In this case, nothing.

Marshawn Lynch – What does it mean when a team who traded for you won’t even give you double-digit carries. One, your time as being useful is past. And two, well they ARE the Seahawks and their offense is quite bad. Carolina is no better as a team, but that won’t equal better numbers for Lynch.

Carolina RBs – And since we’re talking about Carolina, why not continue with their nightmare of a season and RB situation. It seems destined that the Panthers will forever have a timeshare at RB. Mike Goodson has value in PPR leagues, but neither he nor Jonathan Stewart have played well, see enough carries, and the offense can’t move the ball.

Jabar Gaffney – He’s the one most left out in Denver’s passing attack. Yet, many owners still start him thinking only of Kyle Orton’s and Brandon Lloyd’s numbers. He may have a strong week once in a while, but you can’t count on it.

Hines Ward – Ward was already taking a back seat to Mike Wallace, and now Emanuel Sanders is cutting into his targets. Baltimore and Pittsburgh should be a grind-it-out type of game, which means low passing totals for both.

Steve Smith – I don’t think I need to explain any more just how bad the Carolina offense is. Jimmy Clausen appears to be a waste of a draft-pick at this point. While fans and the team are hoping otherwise, owners of Smith need to accept it and move on.

Ben Watson – It’s not a good sign when your leading receiver is your tight end. It’s also not a good sign when Jake Delhomme is returning at QB. Some might look at the Miami matchup and think good things…don’t be one of them.

Playing the Odds (Pickups and Drops)

Quarterback
Rank - Player - Team ( Opp )
1 - Michael Vick - PHI ( HOU )
2 - Aaron Rodgers - GB ( SF )
3 - Philip Rivers - SD ( OAK )
4 - Peyton Manning - IND ( DAL )
5 - Drew Brees - NO ( @ CIN )
6 - Tom Brady - NE ( NYJ )
7 - Kyle Orton - DEN ( @ KC )
8 - Eli Manning - NYG ( WAS )
9 - Matt Cassel - KC ( DEN )
10 - Jay Cutler - CHI ( @ DET )
11 - Ben Roethlisberger - PIT ( @ BAL )
12 - Matt Schaub - HOU ( @ PHI )
13 - Joe Flacco - BAL ( PIT )
14 - Matt Ryan - ATL ( @ TB )
15 - Mark Sanchez - NYJ ( @ NE )
16 - Ryan Fitzpatrick - BUF ( @ MIN )
17 - Sam Bradford - STL ( @ ARZ )
18 - Josh Freeman - TB ( ATL )
19 - David Garrard - JAC ( @ TEN )
20 - Jon Kitna - DAL ( @ IND )
21 - Carson Palmer - CIN ( NO )
22 - Donovan McNabb - WAS ( @ NYG )
23 - Brett Favre - MIN ( BUF )
24 - Chad Henne - MIA ( CLE )
25 - Matt Hasselbeck - SEA ( CAR )

Running Back
Rank - Player - Team ( Opp )
1 - Arian Foster - HOU ( @ PHI )
2 - Adrian Peterson - MIN ( BUF )
3 - Peyton Hillis - CLE ( @ MIA )
4 - Chris Johnson - TEN ( JAC )
5 - Michael Turner - ATL ( @ TB )
6 - Maurice Jones-Drew - JAC ( @ TEN )
7 - Jamaal Charles - KC ( DEN )
8 - Steven Jackson - STL ( @ ARZ )
9 - Matt Forte - CHI ( @ DET )
10 - LeSean McCoy - PHI ( HOU )
11 - Rashard Mendenhall - PIT ( @ BAL )
12 - Mike Tolbert - SD ( OAK )
13 - Knowshon Moreno - DEN ( @ KC )
14 - Ray Rice - BAL ( PIT )
15 - Ahmad Bradshaw - NYG ( WAS )
16 - Fred Jackson - BUF ( @ MIN )
17 - Darren McFadden - OAK ( @ SD )
18 - LaDainian Tomlinson - NYJ ( @ NE )
19 - Cedric Benson - CIN ( NO )
20 - Felix Jones - DAL ( @ IND )
21 - Thomas Jones - KC ( DEN )
22 - BenJarvus Green-Ellis - NE ( NYJ )
23 - LeGarrette Blount - TB ( ATL )
24 - Brandon Jacobs - NYG ( WAS )
25 - Ronnie Brown - MIA ( CLE )
26 - Mike Goodson - CAR ( @ SEA )
27 - Jonathan Stewart - CAR ( @ SEA )
28 - Brian Westbrook - SF ( @ GB )
29 - Brandon Jackson - GB ( SF )
30 - Shonn Greene - NYJ ( @ NE )
31 - Chris Ivory - NO ( @ CIN )
32 - Donald Brown - IND ( DAL )
33 - Marshawn Lynch - SEA ( CAR )
34 - Maurice Morris - DET ( CHI )
35 - Keiland Williams - WAS ( @ NYG )
36 - Beanie Wells - ARZ ( STL )
37 - James Davis - WAS ( @ NYG )
38 - Ricky Williams - MIA ( CLE )
39 - Reggie Bush - NO ( @ CIN )
40 - Danny Woodhead - NE ( NYJ )
41 - Toby Gerhart - MIN ( BUF )
42 - Justin Forsett - SEA ( CAR )
43 - Tashard Choice - DAL ( @ IND )
44 - Anthony Dixon - SF ( @ GB )
45 - Tim Hightower - ARZ ( STL )
46 - Cadillac Williams - TB ( ATL )
47 - Willis McGahee - BAL ( PIT )
48 - Darren Sproles - SD ( OAK )
49 - Mike Hart - IND ( DAL )
50 - Jason Snelling - ATL ( @ TB )

Wide Receiver
Rank - Player - Team ( Opp )
1 - Dwayne Bowe - KC ( DEN )
2 - Andre Johnson - HOU ( @ PHI )
3 - Roddy White - ATL ( @ TB )
4 - Greg Jennings - GB ( SF )
5 - Brandon Lloyd - DEN ( @ KC )
6 - Reggie Wayne - IND ( DAL )
7 - DeSean Jackson - PHI ( HOU )
8 - Marques Colston - NO ( @ CIN )
9 - Jeremy Maclin - PHI ( HOU )
10 - Steve Johnson - BUF ( @ MIN )
11 - Calvin Johnson - DET ( CHI )
12 - Larry Fitzgerald - ARZ ( STL )
13 - Santonio Holmes - NYJ ( @ NE )
14 - Mario Manningham - NYG ( WAS )
15 - Mike Wallace - PIT ( @ BAL )
16 - Mike Williams - TB ( ATL )
17 - Terrell Owens - CIN ( NO )
18 - Dez Bryant - DAL ( @ IND )
19 - Percy Harvin - MIN ( BUF )
20 - Miles Austin - DAL ( @ IND )
21 - Johnny Knox - CHI ( @ DET )
22 - Wes Welker - NE ( NYJ )
23 - Hines Ward - PIT ( @ BAL )
24 - Braylon Edwards - NYJ ( @ NE )
25 - Pierre Garcon - IND ( DAL )
26 - Santana Moss - WAS ( @ NYG )
27 - Anquan Boldin - BAL ( PIT )
28 - Malcom Floyd - SD ( OAK )
29 - Sidney Rice - MIN ( BUF )
30 - Michael Crabtree - SF ( @ GB )
31 - Chad Ochocinco - CIN ( NO )
32 - Mike Thomas - JAC ( @ TEN )
33 - Derrick Mason - BAL ( PIT )
34 - Steve Smith - CAR ( @ SEA )
35 - Randy Moss - TEN ( JAC )
36 - Eddie Royal - DEN ( @ KC )
37 - Deion Branch - NE ( NYJ )
38 - Davone Bess - MIA ( CLE )
39 - James Jones - GB ( SF )
40 - Ben Obomanu - SEA ( CAR )
41 - Danny Amendola - STL ( @ ARZ )
42 - Nate Burleson - DET ( CHI )
43 - Lance Moore - NO ( @ CIN )
44 - Brandon Marshall - MIA ( CLE )
45 - Steve Breaston - ARZ ( STL )
46 - Nate Washington - TEN ( JAC )
47 - Mike Williams - SEA ( CAR )
48 - Donald Driver - GB ( SF )
49 - Blair White - IND ( DAL )
50 - Jacoby Ford - OAK ( @ SD )

Tight End
Rank - Player - Team ( Opp )
1 - Jacob Tamme - IND ( DAL )
2 - Antonio Gates - SD ( OAK )
3 - Vernon Davis - SF ( @ GB )
4 - Marcedes Lewis - JAC ( @ TEN )
5 - Jason Witten - DAL ( @ IND )
6 - Chris Cooley - WAS ( @ NYG )
7 - Tony Gonzalez - ATL ( @ TB )
8 - Todd Heap - BAL ( PIT )
9 - Dustin Keller - NYJ ( @ NE )
10 - Kevin Boss - NYG ( WAS )
11 - Visanthe Shiancoe - MIN ( BUF )
12 - Brandon Pettigrew - DET ( CHI )
13 - Joel Dreessen - HOU ( @ PHI )
14 - Kellen Winslow - TB ( ATL )
15 - Greg Olsen - CHI ( @ DET )
16 - Brent Celek - PHI ( HOU )
17 - Zach Miller - OAK ( @ SD )
18 - Rob Gronkowski - NE ( NYJ )
19 - Tony Moeaki - KC ( DEN )
20 - Heath Miller - PIT ( @ BAL )
21 - Aaron Hernandez - NE ( NYJ )
22 - Jimmy Graham - NO ( @ CIN )
23 - Benjamin Watson - CLE ( @ MIA )
24 - Jermaine Gresham - CIN ( NO )
25 - Anthony Fasano - MIA ( CLE )

Kicker
Rank - Player - Team ( Opp )
1 - David Akers - PHI ( HOU )
2 - Adam Vinatieri - IND ( DAL )
3 - Mason Crosby - GB ( SF )
4 - Dan Carpenter - MIA ( CLE )
5 - Sebastian Janikowski - OAK ( @ SD )
6 - Matt Bryant - ATL ( @ TB )
7 - Nate Kaeding - SD ( OAK )
8 - Rob Bironas - TEN ( JAC )
9 - Ryan Longwell - MIN ( BUF )
10 - Robbie Gould - CHI ( @ DET )
11 - Matt Prater - DEN ( @ KC )
12 - Garrett Hartley - NO ( @ CIN )
13 - Neil Rackers - HOU ( @ PHI )
14 - Lawrence Tynes - NYG ( WAS )
15 - Josh Scobee - JAC ( @ TEN )
16 - Nick Folk - NYJ ( @ NE )
17 - Olindo Mare - SEA ( CAR )
18 - Billy Cundiff - BAL ( PIT )
19 - Graham Gano - WAS ( @ NYG )
20 - Josh Brown - STL ( @ ARZ )

Defense
Rank - Team ( Opp )
1 - Bears ( @ DET )
2 - Packers ( SF )
3 - Steelers ( @ BAL )
4 - Giants ( WAS )
5 - Chargers ( OAK )
6 - Saints ( @ CIN )
7 - Jets ( @ NE )
8 - Dolphins ( CLE )
9 - Ravens ( PIT )
10 - Rams ( @ ARZ )
11 - Titans ( JAC )
12 - Eagles ( HOU )
13 - Seahawks ( CAR )
14 - Vikings ( BUF )
15 - Browns ( @ MIA )
16 - Patriots ( NYJ )
17 - Falcons ( @ TB )
18 - Chiefs ( DEN )
19 - Raiders ( @ SD )
20 - Jaguars ( @ TEN )
21 - 49ers ( @ GB )
22 - Buccaneers ( ATL )
23 - Redskins ( @ NYG )
24 - Lions ( CHI )
25 - Cowboys ( @ IND )

2010-11-24T08:41:00.000-08:00

All in Sports Fantasy Advice
Week 12 - Football Breakdown and Rankings

It’s Thanksgiving week. That means it’s time to stuff your face, watch lots of football, maybe play a pickup game (hmm, exercise, maybe not), and enjoy the time with family and friends.

It also means it’s a short and busy week, which is why most everyone likely just wants to get down to the nitty gritty. That being the case, I’m going to keep it brief for the second week in a row.

Enjoy your Thanksgiving, food and family. Be thankful for what you have and the fact we can play a fantastic game like Fantasy Football year after year. You may not want to give thanks for your luck or team this year…but, remember, the great thing about this game is next time will also be different, exciting and challenging. Be safe. Be full. Be thankful!

Settling Up Week 11

Top Pair (players who guaranteed a good week)

Aaron Rodgers – You cannot get much more perfect that a performance like this one. Rodgers threw for 301 yards and four TDs. He now has seven TDs and no INTs in the past two games.

Maurice Jones-Drew – How good does it feel to be rewarded for your sticking with a player? Very good. MJD hit the century mark for the third straight week and chipped in a nice receiving total to boot. He’s most certainly back.

Greg Jennings – Speaking of patience and being back…many owners tried to (and some did) cast off Jennings earlier in the year. Well, you’re either happy you kept him or traded for him, or you are upset watching him have another big day with three TDs last week.

River Rat (players who surprised everyone)

Ryan Fitzpatrick – The early season shine seemed to have worn off from Fitzpatrick. Just as everyone starting benching him and believing he was a so-so starter, he blows up against Cincinnati. Look out though as Buffalo gets Pittsburgh this week.

Fred Jackson – It was expected that Jackson would do well as he did in 2009 with the full load of carries. No one expected him to perform that well though with 116 yards and two scores. Like Fitzpatrick, look out with Pittsburgh on tap.

Steve Johnson – Basically, all of Buffalo surprised us. It’s safe to say not a single soul had a 49-31 final score for that game. Johnson was the big winner with three TDs on 137 yards receiving. Broken record time: the Bills play the Steelers this week…seriously, don’t forget.

Gut Shot (players who let everyone down)

Eli Manning – His two TDs helped prevent the day from being a total letdown. Still, the interceptions have truly started to hurt Eli’s value. Yes, we can still attribute about half to receiver’s tips. Nevertheless, it’s as if we’re watching Favre 2.0 (younger) lately.

Frank Gore – The Bucs are one of the worst run defenses in the league, which was supposed to lead to a huge day for Gore. Instead, he totaled only 23 yards rushing and the 49ers were completely shut down. Disappointing to say the least.

Andre Johnson – Another year, another four catches and 30-some-odd yards. The Darelle Revis effect struck again as one of the game’s best receivers was held in check.

What’s the Deal for Week 12?

All In (players I’m high on)

Drew Brees – It’s funny how a year like Brees’ 2009 performance can make people be disappointed in good numbers. Brees has six straight games with two or more TDs, but you still heard people saying they wanted better. Last week, he did just that, and with a Thanksgiving trip to Dallas, Brees owners will be giving thanks.

Peyton Manning – What does Peyton Manning do when he’s struggled? He goes off on whatever team stands in his way. Even with three INTs, Manning was not swayed as he threw for 396 yards and four TDs. He’s back and the Chargers should worry.

Philip Rivers – Let’s look at Rivers’ last two games. 528 yards and eight TDs. He’s the frontrunner for MVP right now, and this game against Peyton and the Colts will be one not to miss.

Peyton Hillis – I relent! Even when Hillis only rushes for 48 yards, he finds a way to impress again with 95 receiving yards and a TD reception. Carolina is awful so we can expect a heavy dose of Hillis again.

Steven Jackson – The Rams are better than in years past, but they still struggle at times which includes some rough games for SJax. This week should be no problem however, as Denver is dead last in run defense.

Frank Gore (Ace in the Hole) – I’m willing to excuse last week’s off game. Arizona is almost as bad as Denver against the run and is in the bottom third for pass defense. Gore will make up for last week and then some.

Rashard Mendenhall – Lookie here…another team in the bottom four for rush defense. Buffalo is going to struggle moving the ball and stopping Mendenhall from pounding it down their throats.

Calvin Johnson – It doesn’t matter if Matthew Stafford, Shaun Hill or even Scott Mitchell is at quarterback, Calvin is near impossible to stop. He will feast on the Patriots’ secondary Thursday.

Greg Jennings – The Packers, Rodgers and Jennings are on a roll. Atlanta is weak against the pass. Simple math really – Jennings is in for another big one.

Marques Colston – It was already mentioned that Brees will have a field day against the Cowboys’ poor pass defense. Colston will also benefit from this matchup as he has 32 catches, 365 yards and four TDs in his past four games.

Dwayne Bowe – I’m worried that the first time I put him here will be the week Bowe turns back into a pumpkin. A matchup against Seattle should prevent that from happening, but you never know when Bowe will decide to start using axle grease instead of stick’ em on his hands.

Jacob Tamme – 9, 17, 10, 11. No, that’s not my suggested lotto numbers, that’s the number of targets Tamme has seen from Manning the past four weeks. In those games, his lowest yardage total was 60 yards. The Chargers give up quite a bit to opposing TEs. Remember when people said Dallas Clark was irreplaceable?

Brandon Pettigrew – He ranks as the ninth best Fantasy TE on the year. That’s also with a one-point first week performance and battling Tony Scheffler for looks all year. He’s the second best receiving option in Detroit, yes ahead of Nate Burleson, and the Patriots give up the seventh most points to tight ends.

Muck ‘Em (players I’m down on)

David Garrard – Garrard is the prototypical high risk/high reward play at quarterback. One week he puts up 20-30 points, and then next he doesn’t break single digits. The Giants defense has made multiple quarterbacks look awful this year and held Michael Vick in check.

Josh Freeman – On the opposite end of the spectrum from Garrard is Freeman. He is the model of consistency. Outside of the game against Pittsburgh, his point total ranges from 12 to 17. That’s also his downfall, as he doesn’t have the big-time upside. While Baltimore is not the elite defense of year’s past, they are still one of the better units in the league.

Matt Ryan – Don’t get me wrong. Ryan is one of the best game managers in the league, and as a result, one of the best QBs. That doesn’t automatically equate to being one of the best Fantasy plays. Against strong secondaries, Ryan has struggled to put up top-end numbers, and Green Bay should make things difficult for him.

Brandon Jackson – There are several factors mounting against Jackson this week. He doesn’t see a ton of touches, he has not been overly effective, and the Falcons give up the fourth-fewest Fantasy points to running back. There are plenty of reasons not to like him this week.

Fred Jackson (The Flop) – The other Jackson’s situation is no better. He faces Pittsburgh on Sunday. Yup, enough said. Did you see what they did to Darren McFadden last week? And, DMC has been far better on the year than Jackson.

Cedric Benson – Okay, one game doesn’t excuse a yearlong disappointment. That was only Benson’s second game over 100 yards, and both came against two of the worst run defenses in the league (TB and BUF). Now he faces the Jets…he’ll revert right back to his disappointing play.

Beanie Wells/Tim Hightower – Beanie Wells is supposed to take over, he’s hurt, Tim Hightower is the better pass-catcher, he gets hurt, Wells in ineffective, so is Hightower…ugh, enough! The entire Arizona offense outside of Larry Fitzgerald is a waste this year.

Pierre Garcon – Count me as one of the people who was way off on my pick of Garcon this year. He fooled many people with his late-season and playoff performances last year. Instead of building off that, he’s struggled to find his stride after his injury and has not got in sync with Peyton. I still have hope, it’s just buried somewhere deep in the dark corners of my heart.

Miles Austin – Two touchdowns last week; that was pleasing to his owners. Take a second look however, and you see it came on two catches for seven yards. He’s still a WR2/3 depending on your league’s depth. He just won’t be the WR1 we saw early in the year or have the Fantasy points a two-TD day will provide.

Davone Bess – Bess’ value was more in PPR leagues than standard ones. With Tyler Thigpen at QB, he may have lost his value altogether. His reception total has declined and had only one catch for nine yards last week. Things won’t get much better against Oakland.

Devin Hester – Part of me believes Hester owners are still running highlights of his punt returns from years ago. That’s the only reason they keep thinking he’s a good option at WR. He has a total of two TDs receiving, two on returns and one game with over 10 points on the year. If you want to bank on the chance he’ll return one for a score, be my guest.

Dustin Keller – Weeks 2-4 skew Keller’s numbers as he sits at No. 4 for tight ends on the year. Since then, he has 19 Fantasy points, total. With Santonio Holmes emergence and the Jets downfield play in the passing game, Keller is the forgotten player.

Tony Gonzalez – He gets back-to-back mentions just in case anyone still believes in the name. Gonzalez just doesn’t produce like he used to and only has three games with seven or more points. Just look at what Green Bay did last week defensively to further give reason to avoid him.

Playing the Odds (Pickups and Drops)

It’s the time of year where you need to grab all of your handcuffs. Don’t waste roster spots on low-end fillers. If you lose a major piece, you need to have his replacement ready to go – or, you will likely miss out on him through waivers. So if you have any of the below, or previously mentioned ones, drop them for your star’s replacement if he happens to get hurt.

Bluffed (players who thought would help, but won’t so fold them)

QB: Brett Favre, Chad Henne, Matt Moore, Alex Smith, Matthew Stafford

RB: Marion Barber, Ladell Betts, Ronnie Brown, Justin Forsett, Jerome Harrison, Tim Hightower, Chris Ivory, Lawrence Maroney, Clinton Portis, Steve Slaton, Jonathan Stewart, Cadillac Williams

WR: Bernard Berrian, Jerricho Cotchery, Patrick Crayton, Devery Henderson, Devin Hester, Robert Meachem, Laurent Robinson, Brandon Tate, Roy Williams

TE: Brent Celek, Greg Olsen, Tony Scheffler, Jeremy Shockey

Quarterback
Rank - Player - Team ( Opp )
1 - Drew Brees - NO ( @ DAL )
2 - Philip Rivers - SD ( @ IND )
3 - Aaron Rodgers - GB ( @ ATL )
4 - Tom Brady - NE ( @ DET )
5 - Peyton Manning - IND ( SD )
6 - Michael Vick - PHI ( @ CHI )
7 - Kyle Orton - DEN ( STL )
8 - Ben Roethlisberger - PIT ( @ BUF )
9 - Eli Manning - NYG ( JAC )
10 - Matt Schaub - HOU ( TEN )
11 - Jon Kitna - DAL ( NO )
12 - Shaun Hill - DET ( NE )
13 - Mark Sanchez - NYJ ( CIN )
14 - Joe Flacco - BAL ( TB )
15 - Matt Ryan - ATL ( GB )
16 - Brett Favre - MIN ( @ WAS )
17 - Matt Cassel - KC ( @ SEA )
18 - Carson Palmer - CIN ( @ NYJ )
19 - Ryan Fitzpatrick - BUF ( PIT )
20 - Matt Hasselbeck - SEA ( KC )
21 - Sam Bradford - STL ( @ DEN )
22 - Jay Cutler - CHI ( PHI )
23 - David Garrard - JAC ( @ NYG )
24 - Donovan McNabb - WAS ( MIN )
25 - Josh Freeman - TB ( @ BAL )

Running Back
Rank - Player - Team ( Opp )
1 - Chris Johnson - TEN ( @ HOU )
2 - Frank Gore - SF ( @ ARZ )
3 - Adrian Peterson - MIN ( @ WAS )
4 - Ray Rice - BAL ( TB )
5 - Steven Jackson - STL ( @ DEN )
6 - Peyton Hillis - CLE ( CAR )
7 - Rashard Mendenhall - PIT ( @ BUF )
8 - Arian Foster - HOU ( TEN )
9 - Maurice Jones-Drew - JAC ( @ NYG )
10 - Darren McFadden - OAK ( MIA )
11 - Jamaal Charles - KC ( @ SEA )
12 - Michael Turner - ATL ( GB )
13 - Knowshon Moreno - DEN ( STL )
14 - Mike Tolbert - SD ( @ IND )
15 - LeSean McCoy - PHI ( @ CHI )
16 - Felix Jones - DAL ( NO )
17 - BenJarvus Green-Ellis - NE ( @ DET )
18 - Brandon Jacobs - NYG ( JAC )
19 - LaGarrette Blount - TB ( @ BAL )
20 - Matt Forte - CHI ( PHI )
21 - Ahmad Bradshaw - NYG ( JAC )
22 - Mike Goodson - CAR ( @ CLE )
23 - LaDainian Tomlinson - NYJ ( CIN )
24 - Thomas Jones - KC ( @ SEA )
25 - Shonn Greene - NYJ ( CIN )
26 - Danny Woodhead - NE ( @ DET )
27 - Cedric Benson - CIN ( @ NYJ )
28 - Keiland Williams - WAS ( MIN )
29 - Fred Jackson - BUF ( PIT )
30 - Ronnie Brown - MIA ( @ OAK )
31 - Maurice Morris - DET ( NE )
32 - Donald Brown - IND ( SD )
33 - Beanie Wells - ARZ ( SF )
34 - Reggie Bush - NO ( @ DAL )
35 - Chris Ivory - NO ( @ DAL )
36 - Ricky Williams - MIA ( @ OAK )
37 - Brandon Jackson - GB ( @ ATL )
38 - Justin Forsett - SEA ( KC )
39 - Marshawn Lynch - SEA ( KC )
40 - Tim Hightower - ARZ ( SF )
41 - Darren Sproles - SD ( @ IND )
42 - Marion Barber - DAL ( NO )
43 - Cadillac Williams - TB ( @ BAL )
44 - Willis McGahee - BAL ( TB )
45 - Jason Snelling - ATL ( GB )
46 - Chester Taylor - CHI ( PHI )
47 - Jerome Felton - DET ( NE )
48 - Bernard Scott - CIN ( @ NYJ )
49 - Toby Gerhart - MIN ( @ WAS )
50 - James Davis - WAS ( MIN )

Wide Receiver
Rank - Player - Team ( Opp )
1 - Calvin Johnson - DET ( NE )
2 - Greg Jennings - GB ( @ ATL )
3 - Roddy White - ATL ( GB )
4 - Andre Johnson - HOU ( TEN )
5 - Brandon Lloyd - DEN ( STL )
6 - Dwayne Bowe - KC ( @ SEA )
7 - Larry Fitzgerald - ARZ ( SF )
8 - Reggie Wayne - IND ( SD )
9 - Marques Colston - NO ( @ DAL )
10 - Desean Jackson - PHI ( @ CHI )
11 - Mike Wallace - PIT ( @ BUF )
12 - Santonio Holmes - NYJ ( CIN )
13 - Mario Manningham - NYG ( JAC )
14 - Percy Harvin - MIN ( @ WAS )
15 - Dez Bryant - DAL ( NO )
16 - Miles Austin - DAL ( NO )
17 - Anquan Boldin - BAL ( TB )
18 - Mike Williams - TB ( @ BAL )
19 - Santana Moss - WAS ( MIN )
20 - Jeremy Maclin - PHI ( @ CHI )
21 - Steve Johnson - BUF ( PIT )
22 - Braylon Edwards - NYJ ( CIN )
23 - Michael Crabtree - SF ( @ ARZ )
24 - Wes Welker - NE ( @ DET )
25 - Randy Moss - TEN ( @ HOU )
26 - Vincent Jackson - SD ( @ IND )
27 - Terrell Owens - CIN ( @ NYJ )
28 - Hines Ward - PIT ( @ BUF )
29 - Malcom Floyd - SD ( @ IND )
30 - Pierre Garcon - IND ( SD )
31 - Johnny Knox - CHI ( PHI )
32 - Chad Ochocinco - CIN ( @ NYJ )
33 - Nate Burleson - DET ( NE )
34 - Steve Breaston - ARZ ( SF )
35 - Mike Thomas - JAC ( @ NYG )
36 - Robert Meachem - NO ( @ DAL )
37 - Sidney Rice - MIN ( @ WAS )
38 - James Jones - GB ( @ ATL )
39 - Nate Washington - TEN ( @ HOU )
40 - Blair White - IND ( SD )
41 - Steve Smith - CAR ( @ CLE )
42 - Derek Hagan - NYG ( JAC )
43 - Danny Amendola - STL ( @ DEN )
44 - Lee Evans - BUF ( PIT )
45 - Jabar Gaffney - DEN ( STL )
46 - Derrick Mason - BAL ( TB )
47 - Donald Driver - GB ( @ ATL )
48 - Lance Moore - NO ( @ DAL )
49 - Brandon Gibson - STL ( @ DEN )
50 - Brian Hartline - MIA ( @ OAK )

Tight End
Rank - Player - Team ( Opp )
1 - Jacob Tamme - IND ( SD )
2 - Jason Witten - DAL ( NO )
3 - Marcedes Lewis - JAC ( @ NYG )
4 - Chris Cooley - WAS ( MIN )
5 - Brandon Pettigrew - DET ( NE )
6 - Todd Heap - BAL ( TB )
7 - Kevin Boss - NYG ( JAC )
8 - Jimmy Graham - NO ( @ DAL )
9 - Vernon Davis - SF ( @ ARZ )
10 - Tony Gonzalez - ATL ( GB )
11 - Dustin Keller - NYJ ( CIN )
12 - Rob Gronkowski - NE ( @ DET )
13 - Heath Miller - PIT ( @ BUF )
14 - Zach Miller - OAK ( MIA )
15 - Anthony Hernandez - NE ( @ DET )
16 - Visante Shiancoe - MIN ( @ WAS )
17 - Kellen Winslow - TB ( @ BAL )
18 - Joel Dreessen - HOU ( TEN )
19 - Tony Moeaki - KC ( @ SEA )
20 - Jermaine Gresham - CIN ( @ NYJ )
21 - Brent Celek - PHI ( @ CHI )
22 - Randy McMichael - NO ( @ DAL )
23 - Anthony Fasano - MIA ( @ OAK )
24 - Michael Hoomanawanui - STL ( @ DEN )
25 - Evan Moore - CLE ( CAR )

Kicker
Rank - Player - Team ( Opp )
1 - Rob Bironas - TEN ( @ HOU )
2 - Neil Rackers - HOU ( TEN )
3 - Nate Kaeding - SD ( @ IND )
4 - Lawrence Tynes - NYG ( JAC )
5 - Sebastian Janikowski - OAK ( MIA )
6 - Shayne Graham - NE ( @ DET )
7 - Garrett Hartley - NO ( @ DAL )
8 - Matt Bryant - ATL ( GB )
9 - Ryan Longwell - MIN ( @ WAS )
10 - Mason Crosby - GB ( @ ATL )
11 - Dave Rayner - DET ( NE )
12 - Robbie Gould - CHI ( PHI )
13 - David Akers - PHI ( @ CHI )
14 - Dan Carpenter - MIA ( @ OAK )
15 - Olindo Mare - SEA ( KC )
16 - Adam Vinatieri - IND ( SD )
17 - Matt Prater - DEN ( STL )
18 - Josh Brown - STL ( @ DEN )
19 - Jay Feely - ARZ ( SF )
20 - David Buehler - DAL ( NO )
21 - Nick Folk - NYJ ( CIN )
22 - Graham Gano - WAS ( MIN )
23 - Shaun Suisham - PIT ( @ BUF )
24 - Phil Dawson - CLE ( CAR )
25 - Ryan Succop - KC ( @ SEA )

Defense
Rank - Team ( Opp )
1 - Steelers ( @ BUF )
2 - Jets ( CIN )
3 - Ravens ( TB )
4 - Giants ( JAC )
5 - Eagles ( @ CHI )
6 - Browns ( CAR )
7 - Raiders ( MIA )
8 - Packers ( @ ATL )
9 - Saints ( @ DAL )
10 - Dolphins ( @ OAK )
11 - Bears ( PHI )
12 - Vikings ( @ WAS )
13 - Titans ( @ HOU )
14 - Patriots ( @ DET )
15 - 49ers ( @ ARZ )
16 - Cardinals ( SF )
17 - Chiefs ( @ SEA )
18 - Texans ( TEN )
19 - Redskins ( MIN )
20 - Seahawks ( KC )
21 - Lions ( NE )
22 - Chargers ( @ IND )
23 - Falcons ( GB )
24 - Rams ( @ DEN )
25 - Colts ( SD )

2010-11-17T11:54:00.001-08:00

All in Sports Fantasy Advice
Week 11 - Football Breakdown and Rankings

Well, I’ve been sick this week and haven’t had much time to work on a decent intro. I still have the important stuff for you, and made sure I got all of that together. There may be a small connection here – sometimes you will have a sickening result in Fantasy whether it’s losing by 0.2 points or scoring the second most in the league and still losing. You know, sometimes you just need the breather to shake it off.

So while I take a small breather, and rest up to get back in the game…you do the same. Good luck in Week 11 and here’s hoping you don’t face a Michael Vick-like performance that makes you want to puke!

Settling Up Week 10

Top Pair (players who guaranteed a good week)

Michael Vick

Simply put, Vick ended up with the third most points ever since Fantasy Football became mainstream. 333 yards, four pass TDs, 80 rushing yards and two TDs on the ground helped win some matchups with those numbers alone. If he was healthy, he might have locked up the Fantasy MVP already.

Maurice Jones-Drew

Ahh, MJD how we’ve been waiting. After hitting the century mark for just the second time in Week 8, Jones-Drew scored a rushing TD for only the second time (and did so twice). Hopefully, this is a sign of things to come, as it appears MJD is hitting his stride.

Dwayne Bowe

Is it time we finally believe in Dwayne Bowe? He now has five straight games with a TD (eight total) with 91 Fantasy points. He’s fooled us before and some are still waiting for the slipper to drop – just like some of his should-be catches – but you have to play him if you have him at this point.

River Rat (players who surprised everyone)

Matt Cassel

No one expected Cassel to have a game with 469 yards and four TDs at all this year. Then again, no one expected Denver to jump out to a 28-0 lead. Remember that fact before you get too excited as Kansas City spent the entire afternoon passing.

Keiland Williams

Mike Shanahan strikes again. Granted, this was more due to injuries than his changing his mind by the hour. However, Ryan Torain was expected to start and instead Williams got the ball. He scored twice in a blowout loss, but don’t start relying on him just yet. Both Clinton Portis and Torain could be back, and as soon as they are, no one knows whom Shanahan will pick.

Mike Thomas

Take away that insane catch to end the game, and Mike Thomas does not make much news. In any case, it still counts, and it still led to 21 Fantasy points. He’s been the more consistent WR in Jacksonville, but this is his first truly big game. His score is as fluky as the catch.

Gut Shot (players who let everyone down)

Peyton Manning

Where has the old Manning gone? Peyton is not supposed to have games with zero TDs and just 185 yards. That just doesn’t happen. You cannot sit the guy, ever as he’s still the same record-setting Manning who also had 11 TDs in the first four games. Look for him to take his aggression out on New England this week.

Adrian Peterson

Speaking of things that shouldn’t happen…ADP should not total only 51 yards without a score. The Bears defense is good, but not that good. Chalk this one up to Brett Favre throwing three INTs limiting the amount of time the Vikings offense had the ball.

Terrell Owens

Owens has resurrected his career in Cincinnati and became the lead guy for the Bengals. That was before Chad Ochocinco complained about not getting the ball. Well, it looks like Carson Palmer listened because Ocho had the better day against the Colts. Owens was left with just four catches and 64 yards, far from his eight catches and 124 yards receiving average with seven TDs in the previous five games.

What’s the Deal for Week 11?

All In (players I’m high on)

Michael Vick

We already talked about his 49 Fantasy points last week. Now look at this stat: he has a 29.8 Fantasy point average in games where he’s played nearly the whole time (four full games and one where he came in for Kevin Kolb). He also has 11 passing TDs, four rushing, and NO interceptions. The fact is Vick is on a whole other level.

Philip Rivers

Rivers is one of the candidates for league MVP and even Fantasy MVP. He’s thrown for a TD in every game so far, something that Peyton Manning can’t even say. Plus, he’s on pace to break Dan Marino’s yardage record. We may have a new No. 1 QB in Fantasy.

Frank Gore

In a year where there are fewer running backs worthy of the RB1 tag than ever before, Gore has been a workhorse. He is the 49ers offense. No matter who starts at QB, Gore puts up the numbers game in and game out. After the Week 1 struggle, Gore only has one game in single-digits for Fantasy Points. Tampa Bay is on tap this week, and with how poor they play the run, expect Gore to run for days.

Maurice Jones-Drew

As an owner myself, patience was preached over and over with MJD. Hopefully, other owners listened because it’s finally paying off. Jones-Drew has three straight games with double-digit numbers and has a favorable schedule from here on out. Patience is not its own reward, MJD is.

Jamaal Charles

Speaking of being patient, owners have also been waiting for Jamaal Charles to take over in Kansas City. Todd Haley seems reluctant to give Charles the bulk of the carries even as Thomas Jones has struggled. With three straight weak performances, it may finally be time for Charles in Charge (yes, yes I did).

Calvin Johnson (Ace in the Hole)

It’s a good thing the Lions don’t play the Jets again. It looks like Darrelle Revis is the only thing that will stop Johnson. He’s totaled at least four receptions in every game outside of the Revis matchup and his lowest yardage total in those was 45. On top of that, he has a TD in all but two of those same games. It’s going to be a tight race between him, Roddy White and Andre Johnson for the year’s best receiver (and, don’t count out Hakeem Nicks).

Mario Manningham

Nicks’ teammate Manningham settled in as the third option for the Giants this year behind Nicks and Steve Smith. With a torn pectoral sidelining Smith, Manningham took the opportunity and ran with it. In his first starting role as the second WR, he caught 10 passes for 91 yards and a TD. The Giants are another team with a relatively favorable schedule, so look for Manningham to continue his success.

Andre Johnson

The other Johnson (or should Calvin have that moniker?) has not been on par with his typical numbers, but games like last week show just what he can do. For the fourth time this year, Johnson topped 100 yards receiving to go with a TD score. He has the Revis test this week, but after this game, things are much more appealing.

Jacob Tamme

Peyton Manning may force his team to go to a third tight end. Tamme was dealing with injuries heading into the game, but Manning looked his way 10 times anyway. He caught seven of those passes, but said he could barely move or feel his body afterwards. As long as he can get on the field, he will be a great play, but Manning’s affection for him might kill him.

Muck ‘Em (players I’m down on)

Ryan Fitzpatrick

Well that luster disappeared quickly. Fitzpatrick was the hot name a few weeks back, and had Bills’ fans thinking they had a possible long-term solution at QB. Unfortunately, since his four-game tear, Fitzpatrick has just three TDs to go with three INTs. Cincinnati is Jekyll and Hyde when it comes to pass defense, but the upside isn’t there anymore to risk it (and he gets Pittsburgh in Week 12).

Brett Favre (The Flop)

Fool me once shame on you, fool me twice – no, five times – no, fifty times, shame on me. I honestly don’t even want to talk about Favre anymore, and it looks like that may be the case now. A week after recording an all-time high in passing yards, Favre threw for just 170 with one TD, three INTs and a lost fumble. He’s simply a shadow of his self and too hurt to play through it every week.

Matt Forte

There is no reason to rank Forte as a top 20 RB anymore. He only has four games with double-digit points, and if he didn’t find score in two of those, would total three points combined. The Bears offensive line does not help matters, as they are not holding back many defenders. Hopefully, you don’t have to rely on him for your team.

Cedric Benson

Another RB who is losing his top 20 status was also a Bears player at one point. Benson has less double-digit games than Forte (just three) and lost any explosiveness he had last year. While Buffalo is an attractive matchup this week, Forte did little against them so don’t get too excited as it’s not always about the opponent. Even with a decent game, Benson remaining schedule and diminished play make him a low-level option.

Beanie Wells

Wells was supposed to take over the Arizona run game this year. He got hurt, but was supposed to take over in his return. He didn’t do either. In fact, he got hurt again and we are still waiting for him to take over now. Let’s face it; it might not happen this year. Plus, the Cardinals are terrible on offense so even if he takes the led, there won’t be much to do.

Hines Ward

Part of the reason Ward was blanked last week was because he was mind-blanked on the field – he took a tough hit and suffered a concussion. Things were not much better the two weeks before that as he had six total catches for 25 yards and one TD. The Steelers have a difficult remaining schedule when it comes to the passing game so Ward’s best games may be behind him this year.

Randy Moss

It’s official, he’s done. Moss had done a great job in his first game with new teams in the past. Yet, he managed only one catch, again, for his Titans’ debut. He doesn’t have more than five catches in a game on the year, has officially lost his WR1 value…, and could soon lose his WR2 status.

Jeremy Maclin

No, I’m not crazy. Take away the TDs and what do you have? A mediocre receiver. Without that long bomb to open the second half last week, Maclin would have totaled three catches and 31 yards. He faces some tough DBs the next two weeks, but admittedly has two nice matchups in Weeks 13 and 14. This is more of a statement not to overrate the player just looking at his numbers.

Tony Gonzalez

Gonzalez will go down as one of the best tight ends of all time. Nevertheless, he is not at this point in his career. He only has three games with seven points or more, and it’s clear the Falcons are the Turner-Ryan-White show. Gonzalez is an afterthought on the field and in Fantasy.

Playing the Odds (Pickups and Drops)

The Turn (players who will help you soon, grab if you can)

S = Starter (QB2/RB2/WR2 or higher)

F = QB3/RB3/WR3, Flex worthy

B = Bench with potential

H = Handcuff/Injury replacement

QB: David Garrard (S), Shaun Hill (S), Jon Kitna (S), Troy Smith (F)

RB: Tim Hightower (F), Danny Woodhead (F), Mike Goodson (B/H), Keiland Williams (B)

WR: Mario Manningham (S), Mike Thomas (F), Nate Washington (F), Steve Breaston (F), James Jones (B), Danny Amendola (F)

TE: Brandon Pettigrew (S), Ron Gronkowski (F – let’s see more than his TD-heavy value)

Bluffed (players who thought would help, but won’t so fold them)

QB: Brett Favre, Chad Henne, Matt Moore, Alex Smith, Matthew Stafford

RB: Marion Barber, Ladell Betts, Ronnie Brown, Justin Forsett, Jerome Harrison, Tim Hightower, Chris Ivory, Lawrence Maroney, Clinton Portis, Steve Slaton, Jonathan Stewart, Cadillac Williams

WR: Bernard Berrian, Jerricho Cotchery, Patrick Crayton, Devery Henderson, Devin Hester, Robert Meachem, Laurent Robinson, Brandon Tate, Roy Williams

TE: Brent Celek, Greg Olsen, Tony Scheffler, Jeremy Shockey

Quarterback
Rank - Player - Team ( Opp )
1 - Philip Rivers - SD ( DEN )
2 - Drew Brees - NO ( SEA )
3 - Peyton Manning - IND ( @ NE )
4 - Michael Vick - PHI ( NYG )
5 - Aaron Rodgers - GB ( @ MIN )
6 - Tom Brady - NE ( IND )
7 - Eli Manning - NYG ( @ PHI )
8 - Kyle Orton - DEN ( @ SD )
9 - Ben Roethlisberger - PIT ( OAK )
10 - Joe Flacco - BAL ( @ CAR )
11 - Mark Sanchez - NYJ ( HOU )
12 - Matt Ryan - ATL ( @ STL )
13 - David Garrard - JAC ( CLE )
14 - Matt Schaub - HOU ( @ NYJ )
15 - Shaun Hill - DET ( @ DAL )
16 - Carson Palmer - CIN ( BUF )
17 - Josh Freeman - TB ( @ SF )
18 - Jay Cutler - CHI ( @ MIA )
19 - Matt Cassel - KC ( ARZ )
20 - Jon Kitna - DAL ( DET )
21 - Vince Young - TEN ( WAS )
22 - Ryan Fitzpatrick - BUF ( @ CIN )
23 - Donovan McNabb - WAS ( @ TEN )
24 - Troy Smith - SF ( TB )
25 - Jason Campbell - OAK ( @ PIT )

Running Back
Rank - Player - Team ( Opp )
1 - Chris Johnson - TEN ( WAS )
2 - Frank Gore - SF ( TB )
3 - Adrian Peterson - MIN ( GB )
4 - Peyton Hillis - CLE ( @ JAC )
5 - Jamaal Charles - KC ( ARZ )
6 - Maurice Jones-Drew - JAC ( CLE )
7 - Arian Foster - HOU ( @ NYJ )
8 - Rashard Mendenhall - PIT ( OAK )
9 - Michael Turner - ATL ( @ STL )
10 - Ahmad Bradshaw - NYG ( @ PHI )
11 - Steven Jackson - STL ( ATL )
12 - Ray Rice - BAL ( @ CAR )
13 - LeSean McCoy - PHI ( NYG )
14 - Darren McFadden - OAK ( @ PIT )
15 - Cedric Benson - CIN ( BUF )
16 - Knowshon Moreno - DEN ( @ SD )
17 - LaDainian Tomlinson - NYJ ( HOU )
18 - LeGarrette Blount - TB ( @ SF )
19 - Thomas Jones - KC ( ARZ )
20 - Fred Jackson - BUF ( @ CIN )
21 - Jahvid Best - DET ( @ DAL )
22 - BenJarvus Green-Ellis - NE ( IND )
23 - Matt Forte - CHI ( @ MIA )
24 - Felix Jones - DAL ( DET )
25 - Joseph Addai - IND ( @ NE )
26 - Brandon Jackson - GB ( @ MIN )
27 - Mike Tolbert - SD ( DEN )
28 - Shonn Greene - NYJ ( HOU )
29 - Keiland Williams - WAS ( @ TEN )
30 - Ronnie Brown - MIA ( CHI )
31 - Tim Hightower - ARZ ( @ KC )
32 - Mike Goodson - CAR ( BAL )
33 - Reggie Bush - NO ( SEA )
34 - Brandon Jacobs - NYG ( @ PHI )
35 - Marshawn Lynch - SEA ( @ NO )
36 - Ricky Williams - MIA ( CHI )
37 - Beanie Wells - ARZ ( @ KC )
38 - Danny Woodhead - NE ( IND )
39 - Justin Forsett - SEA ( @ NO )
40 - Ryan Mathews - SD ( DEN )
41 - Willis McGahee - BAL ( @ CAR )
42 - Donald Brown - IND ( @ NE )
43 - Ryan Torain - WAS ( @ TEN )
44 - Michael Bush - OAK ( @ PIT )
45 - Marion Barber - DAL ( DET )
46 - Pierre Thomas - NO ( SEA )
47 - Darren Sproles - SD ( DEN )
48 - Chester Taylor - CHI ( @ MIA )
49 - Cadillac Williams - TB ( @ SF )
50 - Jason Snelling - ATL ( @ STL )

Wide Receiver
Rank - Player - Team ( Opp )
1 - Calvin Johnson - DET ( @ DAL )
2 - Roddy White - ATL ( @ STL )
3 - Reggie Wayne - IND ( @ NE )
4 - Hakeem Nicks - NYG ( @ PHI )
5 - Andre Johnson - HOU ( @ NYJ )
6 - Greg Jennings - GB ( @ MIN )
7 - DeSean Jackson - PHI ( NYG )
8 - Brandon Lloyd - DEN ( @ SD )
9 - Dwayne Bowe - KC ( ARZ )
10 - Terrell Owens - CIN ( BUF )
11 - Marques Colston - NO ( SEA )
12 - Larry Fitzgerald - ARZ ( @ KC )
13 - Anquan Boldin - BAL ( @ CAR )
14 - Dez Bryant - DAL ( DET )
15 - Jeremy Maclin - PHI ( NYG )
16 - Mike Wallace - PIT ( OAK )
17 - Miles Austin - DAL ( DET )
18 - Braylon Edwards - NYJ ( HOU )
19 - Santonio Holmes - NYJ ( HOU )
20 - Mike Williams - TB ( @ SF )
21 - Randy Moss - TEN ( WAS )
22 - Percy Harvin - MIN ( GB )
23 - Brandon Marshall - MIA ( CHI )
24 - Mario Manningham - NYG ( @ PHI )
25 - Hines Ward - PIT ( OAK )
26 - Steve Johnson - BUF ( @ CIN )
27 - Malcom Floyd - SD ( DEN )
28 - Santana Moss - WAS ( @ TEN )
29 - Chad Ochocinco - CIN ( BUF )
30 - Michael Crabtree - SF ( TB )
31 - Mike Sims-Walker - JAC ( CLE )
32 - Wes Welker - NE ( IND )
33 - Mike Williams - SEA ( @ NO )
34 - Johnny Knox - CHI ( @ MIA )
35 - Pierre Garcon - IND ( @ NE )
36 - Steve Smith - CAR ( BAL )
37 - Nate Washington - TEN ( WAS )
38 - Mike Thomas - JAC ( CLE )
39 - Lee Evans - BUF ( @ CIN )
40 - Lance Moore - NO ( SEA )
41 - Derrick Mason - BAL ( @ CAR )
42 - Jabar Gaffney - DEN ( @ SD )
43 - Donald Driver - GB ( @ MIN )
44 - Steve Breaston - ARZ ( @ KC )
45 - Deion Branch - NE ( IND )
46 - Austin Burleson - DET ( @ DAL )
47 - Danny Amendola - STL ( ATL )
48 - Patrick Crayton - SD ( DEN )
49 - James Jones - GB ( @ MIN )
50 - Robert Meachem - NO ( SEA )

Tight End
Rank - Player - Team ( Opp )
1 - Antonio Gates - SD ( DEN )
2 - Vernon Davis - SF ( TB )
3 - Dustin Keller - NYJ ( HOU )
4 - Jacob Tamme - IND ( @ NE )
5 - Zach Miller - OAK ( @ PIT )
6 - Marcedes Lewis - JAC ( CLE )
7 - Jason Witten - DAL ( DET )
8 - Chris Cooley - WAS ( @ TEN )
9 - Todd Heap - BAL ( @ CAR )
10 - Brandon Pettigrew - DET ( @ DAL )
11 - Tony Gonzalez - ATL ( @ STL )
12 - Kellen Winslow - TB ( @ SF )
13 - Visanthe Scheffler - DET ( @ DAL )
14 - Benjamin Watson - CLE ( @ JAC )
15 - Aaron Hernandez - NE ( IND )
16 - Jermaine Gresham - CIN ( BUF )
17 - Heath Miller - PIT ( OAK )
18 - Jeremy Shiancoe - MIN ( GB )
19 - Greg Olsen - CHI ( @ MIA )
20 - Tony Moeaki - KC ( ARZ )
21 - Kevin Boss - NYG ( @ PHI )
22 - Rob Gronkowski - NE ( IND )
23 - Anthony Fasano - MIA ( CHI )
24 - Brent Celek - PHI ( NYG )
25 - Owen Daniels - HOU ( @ NYJ )

Kicker
Rank - Player - Team ( Opp )
1 - Rob Bironas - TEN ( WAS )
2 - David Akers - PHI ( NYG )
3 - Dan Carpenter - MIA ( CHI )
4 - Adam Vinatieri - IND ( @ NE )
5 - Sebastian Janikowski - OAK ( @ PIT )
6 - Matt Bryant - ATL ( @ STL )
7 - Matt Prater - DEN ( @ SD )
8 - Ryan Longwell - MIN ( GB )
9 - Mason Crosby - GB ( @ MIN )
10 - Robbie Gould - CHI ( @ MIA )
11 - Nick Folk - NYJ ( HOU )
12 - Josh Scobee - JAC ( CLE )
13 - Jay Feely - ARZ ( @ KC )
14 - Nate Kaeding - SD ( DEN )
15 - Lawrence Tynes - NYG ( @ PHI )
16 - Neil Rackers - HOU ( @ NYJ )
17 - Billy Cundiff - BAL ( @ CAR )
18 - Garrett Hartley - NO ( SEA )
19 - Shayne Graham - NE ( IND )
20 - Josh Brown - STL ( ATL )

Defense
Rank - Team ( Opp )
1 - Steelers ( OAK )
2 - Packers ( @ MIN )
3 - Titans ( WAS )
4 - Bears ( @ MIA )
5 - Ravens ( @ CAR )
6 - Saints ( SEA )
7 - Jets ( HOU )
8 - Eagles ( NYG )
9 - Giants ( @ PHI )
10 - Chiefs ( ARZ )
11 - Dolphins ( CHI )
12 - 49ers ( TB )
13 - Cowboys ( DET )
14 - Falcons ( @ STL )
15 - Raiders ( @ PIT )
16 - Rams ( ATL )
17 - Vikings ( GB )
18 - Chargers ( DEN )
19 - Patriots ( IND )
20 - Cardinals ( @ KC )
21 - Lions ( @ DAL )
22 - Bengals ( BUF )
23 - Seahawks ( @ NO )
24 - Browns ( @ JAC )
25 - Buccaneers ( @ SF )

2010-11-10T10:46:00.001-08:00

All in Sports Fantasy Advice
Week 10 - Football Breakdown and Rankings

Besides vampires with feelings, it seems zombies are all the rage as of late. If you haven’t had a chance to check out AMC’s “The Walking Dead”, I recommend you do so. It’s one of the better-made zombie productions and the only one successful on television (that I know of at least). The reason many people may have not heard about it yet is because it’s on AMC. They don’t have the big name shows, actors, money or even HD (okay that last one does stink a bit).

In reality, that’s the only difference between them and shows like Vampire Diaries…the name and budget. The quality and entertainment is better on the smaller channel (outside of teenage girls drooling over which pale-skinned, sharp-toothed, skinny jean wearing heartthrob will profess his “undying” love this week). Like most things, you can equate this to Fantasy Football. What’s the difference between Arian Foster and Adrian Peterson in 2010? Not much except the big name and previous experience. But what do those get you THIS year? Nothing.

You’ve seen it done before, but let’s look at some players.

Player A: 2,509 passing yards, 12 TDs, 5 INTs – 17.3 FPA (Fantasy Point Average)

Player B: 2,587 passing yards, 18 TDs, 12 INTs – 16.3 FPA

Have you figured them out? Here’s some more help. Player A went mostly undrafted, Player B averaged a first round selection (foolishly, but that’s another topic). Got it yet? The first QB is Kyle Orton, and the second is Drew Brees.

Let’s do another one.

Player A: 644 yards rushing, 8 TDs (one receiving) – 15.1 FPA

Player B: 721 yards rushing, 8 TDs (all rushing) – 14.9 FPA

Let’s just say Player A wasn’t even starting the first few games, and Player B was supposed to break records. The first is Peyton Hillis and CJ2K, the first player drafted in most leagues, is the other.

Okay, one more.

Player A: 55 receptions, 770 receiving yards, 7 TDs – 14.5 FPA

Player B: 42 receptions, 878 receiving yards, 4 TDs – 13.4 FPA

If you’re smart, you caught that this one was a bit of a trick comparison. While the first is well known, Terrell Owens was not supposed to contribute much, let alone lead all WRs on the season. The second player is the better example of an unheralded name, and Orton’s teammate, Brand Lloyd. For a better comparison, let’s look at the consensus No. 1 WR going into 2010, Andre Johnson: 43 receptions, 635 yards, 3 TDs – 9.8 FPA.

At this point, the message should be clear. It’s like generic medicine – why pay for the brand name when you get the same results for less? Stop worrying when Hillis will fall off or wonder if Steve Johnson is for real or trying to upgrade your QB from Orton. Every year we see players come from nowhere to surprise everyone…again, just look at Arian Foster. I am not suggesting jumping on the one-week wonders. Nevertheless, after continuous production that matches the level of the big names, it’s time to jump on board and enjoy the ride.

Settling Up Week 9

Top Pair (players who guaranteed a good week)

Aaron Rodgers

Nothing helps make up for the blues of facing the Jets like getting the Cowboys in the next game. Dallas cannot stop anyone right now, and that was again the case Sunday as Rodgers threw for 289 yards and three TDs. He will continue to be an elite level QB1 and fortunately does not play the Jets again.

Arian Foster

The number one overall running back just keeps churning out great performances. In his past three games, Foster now has an even 300 yards rushing with five TDs. He is easily one of the biggest values on the season and has another great week coming up as Jacksonville is on tap.

Terrell Owens

Who would have thought Owens would resurrect his career-playing sidekick to Chad Ochocinco in Cincinnati? He was a low-round draft pick this year, and in fact, is not the sidekick but the lead dog. Through Week 9, Owens is the No. 1 ranked WR and tore up Pittsburgh for 141 yards and two TDs on ten catches.

River Rat (players who surprised everyone)

Brett Favre

He’s a zombie. No seriously, the guy just keeps coming back from the dead. Just when everyone is ready to cast off Favre, he goes and hits a new career-high in passing yards. Granted, the Cardinals defense is one of the weakest in the league. Still, no one saw a 446-yard and two TD game coming.

Peyton Hillis

If someone gave you 10,000:1 odds that Hillis would be in the top five for RBs, at any point let alone come Week 10, you still would have turned down that bet. Well, here we are and Hillis is ahead of big time RBs like Frank Gore, Chris Johnson and Michael Turner. Look out though because he has a big test this week against the Jets.

Seyi Ajirotutu

Try to find a site telling you how to pronounce his name correctly. Actually, try to find a site that actually has some decent information on the guy. It’s not easy, but more may be written about him now. Ajirotutu put up 111 yards receiving and two TDs on the Texans. While it’s impressive, it was more due to Philip Rivers’ amazing season, and that the Houston defense is leakier than a submarine screen door.

Gut Shot (players who let everyone down)

Peyton Manning

For only the second time this year, Manning failed to throw for two or more scores. On top of that, he threw two INTs for the first time of 2010. With his backfield in shambles, it was expected that the Colts would lean heavily on Manning’s shoulder. While the 294 yards look solid, the one TD and two picks kept Manning on the lower end of performances.

Darren McFadden

There were so many people jumping on the McFadden bandwagon that there was a good chance he would get hurt again. He’s still hanging on, but an 89-yard performance against Kansas City wasn’t what owners were expecting. Things don’t get any easier for him as Pittsburgh is on tap after the bye.

Calvin Johnson

Darrelle Revis is known as the definition for shutdown corner. However, he has been banged up this year and is not on par with his normal production. Calvin Johnson is supposed to be near matchup-proof, but that wasn’t the case, and Revis looked like the Revis of old. Johnson was held to one catch for 13 yards and had many owners in a foul mood.

What’s the Deal for Week 10?

All In (players I’m high on) Ace in the Hole

Peyton Manning

Isn’t it fun as an owner when you can say a day with only one TD-pass and 11 points is a bad game? That is the case with one of the greatest QBs of all time. Manning continues to define the quarterback position and what it is to be a game manager. What happens when he has an off game? He bounces back in a big way. Look out as Indy plays host to Cincinnati this week.

Eli Manning

Little bro isn’t so little when it comes to performance any more. The surprising fact is his numbers could be even better if his receivers didn’t tip so many passes – several leading to interceptions. Last time he faced Dallas, he threw for 306 yards and four TDs. Things have only gotten worse for the Cowboys since then, which means Eli is primed for another big day.

Michael Vick

If there was no concern over a possible injury, Vick would rank as one of the top three QBs along with Peyton and Rivers. Unfortunately, his dual-threat ability makes him a constant risk to get hurt. He faces the Redskins who are the ones responsible for his first injury. Don’t expect that to slow him down, however. He may be a bit more tentative, but even a cautionary Vick is better than most.

Arian Foster

You see the name; it’s still hard to believe. You watch him play, you still aren’t wowed like Adrian Peterson and Chris Johnson wow you. None of that matters. Foster is easily an elite level RB1 now and with Jacksonville on the schedule, things cannot get much better.

Chris Johnson/Adrian Peterson

Whoever went first in drafts, the other went second. I grouped them together because you don’t need me to tell you anything about them. Simply put, you own them they start no matter what, and you know why.

Jamaal Charles

What would you do if you had one player averaging 7.14 yards a touch, and the other was at 4.19? 99.9% of you would get that first guy more touches. That 0.1%, well that is Chiefs’ coach Todd Haley, and he is enamored with Thomas Jones even though Charles’ is the superior performer. Hopefully, after last week’s game of 32 yards on 19 carries for Jones, Haley starts to lean towards Charles more (and I’m thinking he may start to). Then again, he hasn’t been logical to this point.

Reggie Wayne

The go-to receiver for Peyton is also the most consistent and healthy. While teammates have dropped like flies around Wayne, he continues to show up and produce every week. His lowest point total on the season is six and has reached double-digits three times. Look for him to make it four this week against the Bengals.

Roddy White

He’s hurt, it’s a short week for the Falcons, and there are worries. Understandable. Just know that if he can heal up, White is a must-start option with only two games in single-digits for points (one being last week during the injury).

Hakeem Nicks

Anyone think Olajuwon would be upset if Nicks stole his nickname “The Dream”? Either way, that’s exactly what Nicks has been this season. He’s a touchdown monster with nine already on the year. Like Eli, he gets a Dallas team this Sunday that he lit up just a few weeks back.

DeSean Jackson

There are two factors to Jackson’s success – his health and Vick starting at QB. As long as those two things are good to go, DJax is a Fantasy star. In the three weeks they’ve played a full game together, Vick and DJax have connected on 16 passes for 397 yards and three TDs.

Jacob Tamme

It’s Peyton Manning’s new best friend. Tamme was targeted an astounding 17 times by Peyton last week. He caught 11 of those attempts for 108 yards and a score. He’s not Dallas Clark, but with Manning looking his way that often, his value will remain near the top for TEs.

Muck ‘Em (players I’m down on) The Flop

Mark Sanchez

This guy has a built in hype machine or something. Take it easy everyone. It was one game. It was against the Lions. It was still only one TD pass. Plus, a good chunk of that yardage was Santonio Holmes’ doing. Don’t fall into the hype again.

Donovan McNabb

I mentioned last week that he has a great playoff schedule. I still don’t think he should be waived for that reason and if a big name QB goes down, he would be a better fill-in than most. But, look at the numbers and the situation – plus, look at the last game against Philly. Okay, now take some Pepto.

Chad Henne

Six straight games with an interception and two straight without a touchdown. Let’s just say Miami might be looking QB again in the draft.

LaDainian Tomlinson

LDT’s first five games’ average yardage per carry = 5.72. Since then = 3.49. It’s pretty simple. Tomlinson is wearing down a bit, and the Jets will look to get Shonn Greene more involved to keep Tomlinson ready for the stretch run. He’s not bench material, but he’s no longer the early season darling he was.

Any Carolina RB

Not only can the offense not get on track, none of the running backs can stay healthy or perform when asked. If DeAngelo Williams is out this week, Mike Goodson steps in. Yea, it’s that bad.

Marshawn Lynch

Wasn’t he supposed to be rejuvenated in Seattle? Well, that obviously hasn’t happened. Plus, as long as Charlie Whitehurst starts, the defenses will look to stop the run first. Maybe a trip to Arizona will help this week…maybe.

Wes Welker

There were concerns about Welker’s production even before Randy Moss left. Now they are compounded by the fact he’s simply not equipped to handle the No. 1 WR role. With Pittsburgh on tap, don’t expect things to get any better.

Lee Evans

Okay, maybe it’s really Lee Evans and not the Bills. Owners have passed off most of Evans’ struggles on his situation, and then were excited again by his two-week outburst. Now, he’s been passed over by Steve Johnson, and Fitzpatrick has shown he’s a capable QB and not his fault. While Detroit is a nice matchup this week, the Bills schedule is pretty tough after, and Evans is out of excuses.

Eddie Royal

There are a few things I hate in Fantasy Football – Denver WRs (behind Lloyd) and Saints WRs (after Colston) are two of them. Royal is a long forgotten piece of the puzzle in Denver. The most he’ll get you at this point is one more big game only to fool you into wasting a starting spot on him – plus, the Chiefs defense this week is underrated and tough on the pass.

Todd Heap

Speaking of players who trick you into using them…Heap seems to have a few games each year where you think he’s back to his old ways. The fact is he simply isn’t a starting Fantasy TE anymore. You can’t hope to guess right on which few weeks he’ll help because more frequently, he hurts you.

Playing the Odds (Pickups and Drops)

The Turn (players who will help you soon, grab if you can)

S = Starter (QB2/RB2/WR2 or higher)

F = QB3/RB3/WR3, Flex worthy

B = Bye-week fill-in

H = Handcuff/Injury replacement

QB: David Garrard (S), Shaun Hill (S), Kevin Kolb (H – Vick is bound to get hurt again, no?)

RB: Danny Woodhead (F), Mike Goodson (B/H – if Williams is out he’s a fill-in), C.J. Spiller (H – Buffalo might want to see what they have)

WR: Mike Thomas (F), Nate Washington (F), James Jones (B), Nate Burleson (B)

TE: Jacob Tamme (S – grab if no one has, now!), Joel Dreessen (B – as long as Daniels is out)

Bluffed (players who thought would help, but won’t so fold them)

QB: Chad Henne, Matt Moore, Alex Smith, Matthew Stafford

RB: Marion Barber, Ladell Betts, Ronnie Brown, Justin Forsett, Jerome Harrison, Tim Hightower, Chris Ivory, Lawrence Maroney, Clinton Portis, Steve Slaton, Jonathan Stewart, Cadillac Williams

WR: Bernard Berrian, Kenny Britt, Deon Butler, Jerricho Cotchery, Devery Henderson, Devin Hester, Robert Meachem, Legedu Naanee, Laurent Robinson, Brandon Tate, Roy Williams

TE: Brent Celek, Greg Olsen, Tony Scheffler, Jeremy Shockey

Quarterback
Rank - Player - Team ( Opp )
1 - Peyton Manning - IND ( CIN )
2 - Eli Manning - NYG ( DAL )
3 - Michael Vick - PHI ( @ WAS )
4 - Matt Schaub - HOU ( @ JAC )
5 - Ben Roethlisberger - PIT ( NE )
6 - Joe Flacco - BAL ( @ ATL )
7 - Kyle Orton - DEN ( KC )
8 - David Garrard - JAC ( HOU )
9 - Matt Ryan - ATL ( BAL )
10 - Ryan Fitzpatrick - BUF ( DET )
11 - Tom Brady - NE ( @ PIT )
12 - Josh Freeman - TB ( CAR )
13 - Carson Palmer - CIN ( @ IND )
14 - Jay Cutler - CHI ( MIN )
15 - Brett Favre - MIN ( @ CHI )
16 - Mark Sanchez - NYJ ( @ CLE )
17 - Vince Young - TEN ( @ MIA )
18 - Matt Cassel - KC ( @ DEN )
19 - Donovan McNabb - WAS ( PHI )
20 - Sam Bradford - STL ( @ SF )
21 - Matt Hasselbeck - SEA ( @ ARZ )
22 - Troy Smith - SF ( STL )
23 - Chad Henne - MIA ( TEN )
24 - Shaun Hill - DET ( @ BUF )
25 - Jon Kitna - DAL ( @ NYG )

Running Back
Rank - Player - Team ( Opp )
1 - Arian Foster - HOU ( @ JAC )
2 - Adrian Peterson - MIN ( @ CHI )
3 - Chris Johnson - TEN ( @ MIA )
4 - Frank Gore - SF ( STL )
5 - Maurice Jones-Drew - JAC ( HOU )
6 - Rashard Mendenhall - PIT ( NE )
7 - Jamaal Charles - KC ( @ DEN )
8 - Ahmad Bradshaw - NYG ( DAL )
9 - Michael Turner - ATL ( BAL )
10 - Steven Jackson - STL ( @ SF )
11 - Ray Rice - BAL ( @ ATL )
12 - Cedric Benson - CIN ( @ IND )
13 - Peyton Hillis - CLE ( NYJ )
14 - LeSean McCoy - PHI ( @ WAS )
15 - Jahvid Best - DET ( @ BUF )
16 - LaDainian Tomlinson - NYJ ( @ CLE )
17 - Knowshon Moreno - DEN ( KC )
18 - LeGarrette Blount - TB ( CAR )
19 - Thomas Jones - KC ( @ DEN )
20 - Matt Forte - CHI ( MIN )
21 - Marshawn Lynch - SEA ( @ ARZ )
22 - Fred Jackson - BUF ( DET )
23 - Donald Brown - IND ( CIN )
24 - Ryan Torain - WAS ( PHI )
25 - Ronnie Brown - MIA ( TEN )
26 - Beanie Wells - ARZ ( SEA )
27 - Brandon Jacobs - NYG ( DAL )
28 - Danny Woodhead - NE ( @ PIT )
29 - Shonn Greene - NYJ ( @ CLE )
30 - Felix Jones - DAL ( @ NYG )
31 - Willis McGahee - BAL ( @ ATL )
32 - Mike Goodson - CAR ( @ TB )
33 - Ricky Williams - MIA ( TEN )
34 - Tim Hightower - ARZ ( SEA )
35 - BenJarvus Green-Ellis - NE ( @ PIT )
36 - C.J. Spiller - BUF ( DET )
37 - Javarris James - IND ( CIN )
38 - Chester Taylor - CHI ( MIN )
39 - Justin Forsett - SEA ( @ ARZ )
40 - DeAngelo Williams - CAR ( @ TB )
41 - Cadillac Williams - TB ( CAR )
42 - Derrick Ward - HOU ( @ JAC )
43 - Keiland Williams - WAS ( PHI )
44 - Kevin Smith - DET ( @ BUF )
45 - Marion Barber - DAL ( @ NYG )
46 - LaRod Stephens-Howling - ARZ ( SEA )
47 - Javon Ringer - TEN ( @ MIA )
48 - Jason Snelling - ATL ( BAL )
49 - Tashard Choice - DAL ( @ NYG )
50 - Toby Gerhart - MIN ( @ CHI )

Wide Receiver
Rank - Player - Team ( Opp )
1 - Andre Johnson - HOU ( @ JAC )
2 - Hakeem Nicks - NYG ( DAL )
3 - Reggie Wayne - IND ( CIN )
4 - Calvin Johnson - DET ( @ BUF )
5 - Roddy White - ATL ( BAL )
6 - Larry Fitzgerald - ARZ ( SEA )
7 - DeSean Jackson - PHI ( @ WAS )
8 - Terrell Owens - CIN ( @ IND )
9 - Brandon Lloyd - DEN ( KC )
10 - Steve Smith - NYG ( DAL )
11 - Anquan Boldin - BAL ( @ ATL )
12 - Randy Moss - TEN ( @ MIA )
13 - Brandon Marshall - MIA ( TEN )
14 - Mike Wallace - PIT ( NE )
15 - Steve Johnson - BUF ( DET )
16 - Hines Ward - PIT ( NE )
17 - Percy Harvin - MIN ( @ CHI )
18 - Dwayne Bowe - KC ( @ DEN )
19 - Mike Williams - TB ( CAR )
20 - Dez Bryant - DAL ( @ NYG )
21 - Jeremy Maclin - PHI ( @ WAS )
22 - Mike Sims-Walker - JAC ( HOU )
23 - Miles Austin - DAL ( @ NYG )
24 - Santana Moss - WAS ( PHI )
25 - Michael Crabtree - SF ( STL )
26 - Santonio Holmes - NYJ ( @ CLE )
27 - Pierre Garcon - IND ( CIN )
28 - Johnny Knox - CHI ( MIN )
29 - Braylon Edwards - NYJ ( @ CLE )
30 - Lee Evans - BUF ( DET )
31 - Chad Ochocinco - CIN ( @ IND )
32 - Steve Smith - CAR ( @ TB )
33 - Mike Williams - SEA ( @ ARZ )
34 - Derrick Mason - BAL ( @ ATL )
35 - Nate Washington - TEN ( @ MIA )
36 - Mike Thomas - JAC ( HOU )
37 - Nate Burleson - DET ( @ BUF )
38 - Jabar Gaffney - DEN ( KC )
39 - Davone Bess - MIA ( TEN )
40 - Steve Breaston - ARZ ( SEA )
41 - Wes Welker - NE ( @ PIT )
42 - Bernard Berrian - MIN ( @ CHI )
43 - Danny Amendola - STL ( @ SF )
44 - Mario Manningham - NYG ( DAL )
45 - Earl Bennett - CHI ( MIN )
46 - Danny Woodhead - NE ( @ PIT )
47 - Blair White - IND ( CIN )
48 - Eddie Royal - DEN ( KC )
49 - Kevin Walter - HOU ( @ JAC )
50 - Deion Branch - NE ( @ PIT )

Tight End
Rank - Player - Team ( Opp )
1 - Vernon Davis - SF ( STL )
2 - Jacob Tamme - IND ( CIN )
3 - Dustin Keller - NYJ ( @ CLE )
4 - Chris Cooley - WAS ( PHI )
5 - Jason Witten - DAL ( @ NYG )
6 - Brandon Pettigrew - DET ( @ BUF )
7 - Marcedes Lewis - JAC ( HOU )
8 - Tony Gonzalez - ATL ( BAL )
9 - Aaron Hernandez - NE ( @ PIT )
10 - Visanthe Shiancoe - MIN ( @ CHI )
11 - Kellen Winslow - TB ( CAR )
12 - Tony Moeaki - KC ( @ DEN )
13 - Todd Heap - BAL ( @ ATL )
14 - Heath Miller - PIT ( NE )
15 - Brent Celek - PHI ( @ WAS )
16 - Greg Olsen - CHI ( MIN )
17 - Owen Daniels - HOU ( @ JAC )
18 - Benjamin Watson - CLE ( NYJ )
19 - John Carlson - SEA ( @ ARZ )
20 - Joel Dreessen - HOU ( @ JAC )
21 - Anthony Fasano - MIA ( TEN )
22 - Tony Scheffler - DET ( @ BUF )
23 - Bo Scaife - TEN ( @ MIA )
24 - Kevin Boss - NYG ( DAL )
25 - Jermaine Gresham - CIN ( @ IND )

Kicker
Rank - Player - Team ( Opp )
1 - Dan Carpenter - MIA ( TEN )
2 - Rob Bironas - TEN ( @ MIA )
3 - David Akers - PHI ( @ WAS )
4 - Matt Bryant - ATL ( BAL )
5 - Josh Scobee - JAC ( HOU )
6 - Adam Vinatieri - IND ( CIN )
7 - Neil Rackers - HOU ( @ JAC )
8 - Lawrence Tynes - NYG ( DAL )
9 - Matt Prater - DEN ( KC )
10 - Nick Folk - NYJ ( @ CLE )
11 - Billy Cundiff - BAL ( @ ATL )
12 - Ryan Longwell - MIN ( @ CHI )
13 - Ryan Succop - KC ( @ DEN )
14 - Mike Nugent - CIN ( @ IND )
15 - Jeff Reed - PIT ( NE )
16 - Robbie Gould - CHI ( MIN )
17 - Jay Feely - ARZ ( SEA )
18 - Josh Brown - STL ( @ SF )
19 - Phil Dawson - CLE ( NYJ )
20 - Rian Lindell - BUF ( DET )

Defense
Rank - Team ( Opp )
1 - Giants ( DAL )
2 - Steelers ( NE )
3 - Jets ( @ CLE )
4 - Titans ( @ MIA )
5 - Bears ( MIN )
6 - Buccaneers ( CAR )
7 - Eagles ( @ WAS )
8 - Vikings ( @ CHI )
9 - 49ers ( STL )
10 - Colts ( CIN )
11 - Cardinals ( SEA )
12 - Chiefs ( @ DEN )
13 - Seahawks ( @ ARZ )
14 - Dolphins ( TEN )
15 - Ravens ( @ ATL )
16 - Patriots ( @ PIT )
17 - Redskins ( PHI )
18 - Lions ( @ BUF )
19 - Falcons ( BAL )
20 - Rams ( @ SF )
21 - Browns ( NYJ )
22 - Broncos ( KC )
23 - Bengals ( @ IND )
24 - Cowboys ( @ NYG )
25 - Panthers ( @ TB )