BustedKnuckles
Footballguy
By PFW staff
Thursday, Nov. 15, 2007
AFC East
Buffalo — QB J.P. Losman has thrown only two TD passes on the season. He doesn’t justify a spot on your roster. … After spraining his ankle against the Dolphins, RB Marshawn Lynch is almost certainly out this week, judging by coach **** Jauron’s comments. Keep him on your bench. … WR Lee Evans has been on a tear recently, averaging 116.5 yards the past four outings. But he has only two touchdowns on the season, and New England held him to one catch for seven yards in Week Three. This Patriots “D” is just too tough to expect him to do much of anything against it.
Miami — Eagles defensive coordinator Jim Johnson will blitz the heck out of rookie QB John Beck, who’s making his first career start. A combination of inexperience and lack of weapons will make it very tough for Beck to get anything going. … The Eagles allow just 100.1 yards on the ground, and now have the services of standout S Brian Dawkins. They’ll cheat him up to stop RB Jesse Chatman, Miami’s only legit offensive threat. Chatman was great in accounting for 149 yards from scrimmage last week, but this Philly defense is a far tougher test than Buffalo’s. Keep Chatman on the bench. … With Chris Chambers now in San Diego, Miami doesn’t have any proven receiving threats.
New England — The Patriots’ offense is playing at such an absurdly high level, all of the following need to be in your lineup: QB Tom Brady, WRs Randy Moss and Wes Welker, and TE Ben Watson. … The Patriots' defense is also a must-play against the Bills’ overmatched offense. … Unless you have a sterling receiving corps, WR Donté Stallworth should also be playing. … RB Laurence Maroney has frustrated his fantasy owners this season, rushing for a respectable 69.5 yards per game in the six contests in which he has played, but has failed to score a touchdown. He also adds almost nothing in the passing game. The Bills’ run defense is an improved unit, but still not good enough to stop the Pats if they choose to use the running game frequently. Maroney’s a decent, but not strong play.
New York Jets — The Steelers rank first in the league in both run and pass defense. The Jets rank 22nd in both run and pass offense. No Jets player merits a fantasy play this week, with the possible exception of WR Laveranues Coles — who has 473 yards and six touchdowns on the season — if you’re in a pinch.
AFC North
Baltimore — QB Kyle Boller draws a nice matchup this week with a Cleveland secondary that, even on its best day, is an unspectacular group. But do you rush to get Boller into the lineup? With no more bye weeks, the vast majority of owners have fewer serious lineup questions to answer. In short, it’s unlikely that Boller will be the top QB option for most owners. Look for Boller to take more shots down the field than former starter Steve McNair, which will boost the stock of WRs Mark Clayton and Devard Darling, the Ravens receivers most likely to run vertical routes. Clayton comes off his best game of the season and deserves consideration as a No. 3 receiver in bigger leagues. Darling will get work if WR Demetrius Williams (ankle) is out but won’t get enough opportunities to be an option in all but the deepest leagues. WR Derrick Mason remains a strong play in points-per-catch leagues. … The status of TE Todd Heap (thigh) needs to be monitored throughout the weekend before making a lineup decision on him.
Cincinnati — RB Rudi Johnson has indicated he’s still not completely healed from his hamstring injury, so he’s hard to recommend against an Arizona defense that ranks in the top 10 in yards per play allowed. The same can be said for Kenny Watson, who will also get some work, especially in passing situations. … The Arizona secondary has played to its potential all season, but star S Adrian Wilson could miss the Cincinnati game with a heel injury. If that happens, the Cardinals could really be up against it. That’s all the more reason to get QB Carson Palmer and WRs Chad Johnson and T.J. Houshmandzadeh into the lineup. Chris Henry will be a starting option in bigger leagues or leagues that start three receivers.
Cleveland — The Browns haven’t allowed a sack in the past two games. The Ravens’ secondary figures to again be without CB Samari Rolle. Those are just two reasons to have faith in QB Derek Anderson, WR Braylon Edwards and TE Kellen Winslow. If you have watched the Ravens of late, you’ll know the defense is not playing as well as it did a season ago. What’s more, it is too often being put into tough situations by a turnover-prone offense. Certainly there were some who jumped off the Anderson bandwagon after he struggled mightily in the second half vs. the Steelers’ defense in Week 10, but he still threw three TD passes. And again, let’s look at the sacks allowed statistic. If he’s more patient in the pocket, Anderson will have all the opportunity to find open receivers. ... RB Jamal Lewis will struggle to find much running room against a Ravens defense that’s No. 1 in yards allowed per rush; he’s only a sure-fire starter in bigger leagues.
Pittsburgh — We come to praise TE Heath Miller, who’s tied for the league lead in TDs at his position with the Colts' Dallas Clark. The funny thing is that Miller could be a backup for some owners in smaller leagues if those owners took, say, Antonio Gates or Jeremy Shockey early in drafts. No matter the situation, Miller could again put up nice numbers against the feeble Jets “D” in Week 11. … Only Tom Brady and Tony Romo have more TD passes than Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger. Fantasy owners can address their thank you cards to: Bruce Arians, offensive coordinator, Pittsburgh Steelers. … One of the most frustrating factors about having RB Willie Parker on your fantasy roster is how seemingly often he falls on his own or is tripped up one step from a huge run. It’s something you have to live with. Also, the lack of rushing TDs (one fewer than Cedric Benson!) is also a headache.
AFC South
Houston — RB Ahman Green will play with his right-knee injury the best he can quarter-to-quarter, week-to-week. Such a plan shouldn’t inspire any confidence in fantasy owners. Green should only be considered a starter in the biggest of leagues. Also, don’t rush out and start Ron Dayne, either; he’s going to get most of his work if Green can’t go. … The “Adimchinobe Echemandu Super-Sleeper Fan Club” has moved underground for the time being. Nevertheless, the Texans’ No. 3 back is a player to keep tabs on, if for no other reason that both Green and Dayne may not be in Houston beyond this season. … WR Andre Johnson and QB Matt Schaub are back this week; both are good plays against a struggling Saints secondary.
Indianapolis — QB Peyton Manning threw a nightmarish six interceptions last week in San Diego. He’ll have an easier time finding his rhythm back home in the RCA Dome, where he typically excels. With all the injuries to Indy’s offense, Manning is no longer the clear-cut No. 2 fantasy quarterback behind Tom Brady, but he’s still in the top five. … About the injuries: WRs Marvin Harrison (knee) and Anthony Gonzalez (thumb) both sat out practice as late as Thursday, so it’s a good bet they won’t play Sunday. Harrison is more likely to suit up, but in no way can you rely on him. … WR Reggie Wayne continues to shine in spite of the injuries around him. He was Manning’s only reliable target last week and needs to be a mainstay in your lineup. … TE Dallas Clark is back after sitting out last week with a concussion. As defenses have keyed in on him more, his production has suffered. However, he’s still an upper-echelon talent among the top 5-7 fantasy tight ends in the league. Kansas City’s good-but-not-great defense will have its hands full with him. … Even without stud DE Dwight Freeney, the Colts’ defense is an upper-crust unit. It ranks third in the league in total defense, yielding only 269.9 yards per game. With the Chiefs minus RB Larry Johnson and quarterbacked by inexperienced Brodie Croyle, it’s a must-play.
Jacksonville — The Jaguars get back QB David Garrard (ankle) for this week’s game vs. the Chargers. But he’s more of a game manager than playmaker and not a good fantasy play. He has only six TD passes this season. … RB Maurice Jones-Drew has gradually re-emerged as the most valuable back the Jaguars have, having a better burst and better receiving skills than backfield mate Fred Taylor. San Diego’s run defense hasn’t played up to its talent level this season, but is still good enough to give the Jags’ running game trouble. Jones-Drew is a decent play, Taylor, not so much. … Jacksonville’s defense has been wildly enigmatic, alternating between terrific and shoddy. Same with the Chargers’ offense. Play the Jaguars’ defense at your own risk. It’s a classic boom-or-bust option.
Tennessee — RB Chris Brown (ankle) is likely to be back this week. Brown may have been dropped in some leagues because of bye-week issues, and you could make worse waiver claims than one for a back racking up 5.3 yards per carry in a run-first offense. LenDale White remains the starter, but Brown will have a regular role in the offense. … Rookie RB Chris Henry faces a four-game suspension, but until he drops or loses his appeal, you might consider keeping him on the roster in the event that (1) White or Brown is injured and (2) he wins his appeal. It all depends on your depth at running back. … There has been lots of talk about QB Vince Young’s disappointing season. You certainly can’t start him with a lot of confidence right now, but dropping him is a risky proposition, given his vast potential.
AFC West
Denver — We hear WR Javon Walker’s return is still a few weeks away, at best. … Rookie RB Selvin Young looked quick and decisive as he rushed for 109 yards and a touchdown last week against Kansas City in just his second pro start. Until that point, the Broncos had lacked a 100-yard rushing performance in five of the previous six games, as injuries have helped make it a tumultuous year for Travis Henry. Henry will return from a bruised knee this week, but the growing sentiment in Denver is that Young may have earned a role regardless of Henry’s health, and the carries may be split more than fantasy owners would like going forward — or at least until Henry’s legal status is determined in court. Teammates like Young’s “extra gear” and feel he is a much bigger threat for the big play than Henry. … Expect TE Tony Scheffler to play this week after suffering a bruised chest stemming from a big hit against K.C.
Kansas City — With RB Larry Johnson out indefinitely with a foot sprain suffered in Week Nine, it will be Priest Holmes again manning the RB spot for the Chiefs. He looked pretty decent last week in carrying 20 times for 65 yards — numbers that would have looked better if not for a 13-yard loss — in his first significant action in two years. Head coach Herm Edwards stressed that it would be a shared workload between Holmes and rookie Kolby Smith, but Smith got only two carries as the Chiefs looked to get Holmes in a rhythm. … Second-year QB Brodie Croyle enters the starting lineup this week, replacing Damon Huard, as the Chiefs hope to get a glimpse of the future. Croyle handled the reins fairly well in the second half last week. The Chiefs like his mobility, arm and presence, but his decision-making still leaves a bit to be desired, which against a ball-hawking Colts secondary could spell trouble in his first NFL start.
Oakland — With Josh McCown nursing a thigh injury, it will be Daunte Culpepper back in the saddle for Oakland at quarterback against Minnesota. Culpepper teased fantasy owners with two passing touchdowns and three rushing scores against Miami in Week Four but has done little since and has a penchant for fumbling. … RB Justin Fargas has been a pleasant surprise in an otherwise lackluster year offensively for the Raiders. He totaled 81 rushing yards and 23 more as a receiver last week against Chicago and has gained a stellar 5.3 yards per carry behind a shaky offensive line since Week Three. But with all the QB problems in Oakland surely leading to the Vikings putting a few extra defenders in the box this week, if you have other options, it might be best to stay away from Fargas as he faces Minnesota’s third-ranked run defense on the road this week. … The Raiders’ defense, despite a good matchup vs. the Vikings with Adrian Peterson out of the lineup, has forced only two turnovers in the past four weeks and is still having difficulties stopping the run.
San Diego — It’s hard to get too excited about QB Philip Rivers these days. He has been held without a TD pass in three of the last four games and hasn’t crossed the 197-yard mark in four weeks. As a result, defenses are loading up to stop LaDainian Tomlinson, and TE Antonio Gates (four catches for 36 yards) and WRs Vincent Jackson (2-44) and Chris Chambers (7-76) have been rather quiet on the fantasy front. … Jacksonville hasn’t been its normally stingy self this season, ranking just 23rd overall and 27th in passing yards allowed. The feeling is that Rivers and crew should be able to take advantage of Jaguars safeties Reggie Nelson and Sammy Knight, especially on play-action. … With the help of six Peyton Manning interceptions last Sunday, the Chargers' defense has now forced 16 turnovers in its last four games.
NFC East
Dallas — The Giants managed to take TE Jason Witten out of the game with extra attention — not that it mattered; WR Terrell Owens more than picked up the slack — but the Redskins will have no way of doing the same. With FS Sean Taylor out, the Redskins are vulnerable in the middle of the field. In the nine plays Taylor missed, the Eagles racked up an average of 16.2 yards per play from that point on, not counting two kneel-downs. That means QB Tony Romo, Owens and Witten should be good for big points this week.
N.Y. Giants — The Lions lead the league in takeaways, which means that QB Eli Manning likely will give the ball away at least once. … TE Jeremy Shockey might have to continue to act as a de facto receiver. WR Plaxico Burress is hurting badly, and it doesn’t appear that his injured ankle will get much better. Burress owners should be very concerned from this point on. In fact, even against a suspect Lions secondary that normally would mean feasting, Burress rates as a low-grade starter. … Want a sleeper for the bottom of your bench? RB Ahmad Bradshaw appears to be out of Tom Coughlin’s doghouse and could get a few reps as a receiver, where the team is thin.
Philadelphia — The Eagles will try to get healthy against the Dolphins’ 30th-ranked run defense, but it should be noted that the Dolphins also rank 30th in yards per pass allowed and have holes throughout the secondary. This could be a bounce-back week for WR Kevin Curtis, who has slipped a bit, and another chance to break out for inconsistent WR Reggie Brown. And you should feel good about TE L.J. Smith again. He was a big part of the offense last week and could have a good chance at scoring again. … RB Brian Westbrook (knee) did not practice Thursday, but sources believe he’ll play.
Washington — The Redskins are extremely thin at receiver with Brandon Lloyd (clavicle) now out for the season and Santana Moss (heel) and James Thrash (ankle) not likely to play. That means your top three receivers are Antwaan Randle El, who’s likely to be doubled or bracketed, Keenan McCardell and Reche Caldwell. As for now, there is no fourth wideout. Don’t assume that all these guys getting hurt means that Randle El and TE Chris Cooley are good bets to go off. Instead, this could be a tough week for QB Jason Campbell and the pass catchers against a Cowboys secondary that has been pretty good.
NFC North
Chicago — QB Rex Grossman gets a chance to resurrect his career in Chicago with a starting assignment against the Seahawks this Sunday after coming to the rescue for the injured Brian Griese last Sunday in Oakland. It will be Grossman’s first start since a Week Three loss to Dallas, in which he threw three interceptions. The fantasy dilemma with Grossman remains the same: Will the Good Rex or the Bad Rex show up on Sunday? … WR Bernard Berrian, the beneficiary of Grossman’s 59-yard game-winning TD pass vs. the Raiders, could be an intriguing fantasy weapon this Sunday against a Seattle secondary which he torched for a 68-yard TD catch in the Bears’ playoff win over Seattle last season. Look for rookie TE Greg Olsen, a non-factor last week but the Bears’ leading receiver the previous four weeks combined, to possibly be a fantasy factor this Sunday against a Seattle defense that has had trouble with tight ends this season, most notably the Browns’ Kellen Winslow a few weeks ago. … Beleaguered Bears RB Cedric Benson (2.6 yards per carry vs. Oakland) scored a touchdown last Sunday for the first time since Week Five against the Packers.
Detroit — There are concerns about RB Kevin Jones’ achy foot, and it could mean that the team activates Tatum Bell or gives T.J. Duckett some more chances against the Giants. … QB Jon Kitna has been criticized for not getting rid of the ball quickly enough, so look for the Lions to try to slow down the Giants’ pass rush with more three-step drops this week. Expect good rhythm in the passing game and more passes to slot guys, Mike Furrey and Shaun McDonald.
Green Bay — QB Brett Favre just keeps merrily rolling along, putting up huge fantasy numbers on a weekly basis with the help of an extremely deep and talented receiving corps. Favre has thrown for an NFL-best 2,757 yards with twice as many touchdowns (16) as interceptions (8). He also has six 300-yard passing efforts in his last seven games. … RB Ryan Grant, who is starting to come on at just the right time (two 100-yard rushing efforts in the last three games), could very well do some damage this Sunday against a below-average Panthers run defense (tied for 18th).
Minnesota — Stay away. With RB Adrian Peterson out, the only player worth starting here would be replacement Chester Taylor against the Raiders’ 29th-ranked run defense (dead last in yards per carry). Taylor might have a good game, despite the Raiders not respecting the passing skills of Tarvaris Jackson, who is expected to start. As a result, the play-action pass likely is moot, and that means no other receivers are safe bets.
NFC South
Atlanta — The Falcons have won two straight, but it has been the defense, not head coach Bobby Petrino’s much-hyped offense that is leading the way. Petrino said this week that QB Byron Leftwich, who missed the past two games while recovering from ankle surgery, would be the team’s starter when he’s healthy. Leftwich returned to practice this week and there’s an outside chance he could start over QB Joey Harrington Sunday against the Buccaneers. Until Petrino names an official starter, neither signalcaller should factor much into your plans for fantasy this week. … Falcons RB Warrick Dunn followed up a 100-yard rushing performance with an 89-yard game last week. He has seen an increased workload with RB Jerious Norwood out with an ankle injury and is a solid start against the Bucs, who are tougher against the pass than the run. … TE Alge Crumpler came back with a bang last week, scoring Atlanta’s game-winning touchdown in the final seconds against Carolina. There have been questions about whether his aching knees will hold up for the rest of the season, but judging by his scamper to the endzone against the Panthers, Crumpler appears to be healthy enough and a viable option at tight end.
Carolina — For the first time in two weeks, the Panthers will enter a game with both of their top quarterbacks available — Vinny Testaverde and David Carr. Head coach John Fox has yet to name a starter, but that shouldn’t affect your lineup. Testaverde and Carr have led Carolina to just 27 points in the last three games combined and are not worth fantasy consideration. … Panthers WR Steve Smith missed multiple practices this week with a shin injury, but he should take the field Sunday against the Packers. Keep in mind, however, that he has had just one 100-yard receiving game since Week Two. … RBs DeShaun Foster and DeAngelo Williams are starting to cancel each other out in terms of fantasy value. Each takes carries away from the other and while they offer a solid 1-2 punch combined, their numbers aren’t so impressive individually.
New Orleans — Saints QB Drew Brees will be challenged by a solid Texans secondary on Sunday and could struggle, as he did last week against the Rams. Brees threw two interceptions vs. St. Louis, after throwing just one in his previous four outings. The turnovers hurt, but Brees’ big-play potential is too strong to consider benching him. … Saints RB Reggie Bush was held to 17 yards rushing on seven carries last week, although he did run for a touchdown. Overall, Bush has been a disappointment to fantasy owners who expected more explosiveness from the second-year running back. Expect head coach Sean Payton to get back to running the ball after going to the ground just 11 times last week. Bush should be able to find holes against the 24th-ranked Texans run defense. … Saints WR Marques Colston has put together an impressive three-game stretch, catching 26 passes for 373 yards. His production will diminish slightly this week, but he is finally looking like the top-tier fantasy receiver that he looked like last season.
Tampa Bay — Count on a low-scoring matchup this week. Bucs QB Jeff Garcia should be refreshed after the bye week, but he will meet a Falcons secondary that is playing its best ball of the season. Atlanta’s pass rush has improved in recent weeks, thanks to DT Rod Coleman, who is finally healthy after suffering two serious leg injuries before the season. This is a good week to bench Garcia. … Bucs RB Earnest Graham has been a pleasant surprise for fantasy owners, but his workload should lessen with RB Michael Pittman back after tearing ankle ligaments in Week Five against Indianapolis. It’s not time to bail on Graham, but expect his carries and yardage to decline slightly. … Bucs WR Joey Galloway will be dogged all game by Falcons CB DeAngelo Hall, and Garcia will be forced to look at the other side of the field, where WR Ike Hilliard will be matched up against rookie CB Chris Houston. Hilliard is a fantasy sleeper this week and Galloway might warrant consideration for your bench.
NFC West
Arizona — Don’t be surprised if backup RBs J.J. Arrington and Marcel Shipp start taking away some touches from starter Edgerrin James, particularly Arrington, who adds badly needed speed to the offense. That said, James will still get plenty of carries and could do some damage this Sunday in Cincinnati vs. the Bengals’ 27th-ranked run defense. … Cincy’s equally porous pass defense should prove to the liking of QB Kurt Warner and WRs Larry Fitzgerald (8-74-2 in Week 10) and Anquan Boldin. While Fitzgerald is red-hot with an NFC-leading 58 catches for 811 yards (second-best in NFC), Boldin has been limited lately by a lingering hip injury and is having trouble making his cuts and picking up yards after his catches, which is usually his forte. … Keep an eye on TE Leonard Pope, who scored a career-high two TDs in Week 10 and added career highs for receptions (five) and receiving yards (52).
St. Louis — QB Marc Bulger burst out of the second-half chute with fire in his eyes, looking every bit like the fantasy heavyweight he was last season in his performance last Sunday against the Saints (27-of-33 passing, 302 yards, two TDs with zero interceptions). Look for Bulger to be seeking major revenge this Sunday against a San Francisco defense that sacked him six times in the Niners’ Week Two victory. WR Isaac Bruce, who left the Saints game late in the third quarter with a sore hamstring, was practicing by mid-week without any problems. Before leaving the Saints game, Bruce had four catches for 62 yards, including his first TD catch of the season. … RB Steven Jackson, whose 22 carries and five receptions for a combined 100 yards and a TD last week were more than most close observers expected, could have some fantasy success against a Niners run defense that is really starting to unravel, particularly on the perimeter. WR Torry Holt, who has topped 100 yards receiving the past two games, faces a tough matchup with Niners CB Nate Clements, which might make Bruce and No. 3 WR Drew Bennett more likely TD targets for Bulger this Sunday. Bennett looked completely recovered from the quad injury that bothered him the first half of the season on his acrobatic TD catch against New Orleans.
San Francisco — With QB Alex Smith perhaps mercifully out of the picture with injuries to his throwing shoulder and forearm, Trent Dilfer will start under center this Sunday vs. the Rams. … The Niners will be looking to get much more out of TE Vernon Davis, who had only one catch for four yards against Seattle last Monday night after catching seven passes for 77 yards vs. Atlanta a week earlier. … RB Frank Gore, who rushed for 72 yards (5.5-yard average) vs. Seattle, had 20 carries for 81 yards and a pair of TDs in the Niners’ Week Two win over the Rams.
Seattle — RB Shaun Alexander, who sat out Seattle’s Monday-night victory over the Niners with a sprained left knee, wasn’t scheduled to test the knee until practice Friday. Whether he plays or not, you might be better served if you have Maurice Morris on your fantasy team. Morris, who had 87 yards rushing and a TD vs. the Niners, is a much better pass catcher and blocker than Alexander, which makes him a better fit in a Seahawks offense that is going back to its roots, heavily emphasizing the passing game. It’s an approach that bodes well for QB Matt Hasselbeck, who has been a consistently solid fantasy QB all season regardless of the scheme. … The Bears’ secondary is coming off one of its best efforts of the season against Oakland, but Seattle’s WR arsenal should prove to be a much bigger challenge. WR Deion Branch, who has missed the last four games with a foot injury, has looked lively in practice this week and finally should be ready to return to the lineup this Sunday against Chicago. WR D.J. Hackett, who has missed most of the season with an ankle injury, is coming off a strong outing vs. the Niners (8-101-1). … Is backup TE Will Heller a viable fantasy option? With three TD catches in the past three games, that just might be the case. We hear the Hawks really like the 6-foot-6 Heller in red-zone situations.
Thursday, Nov. 15, 2007
AFC East
Buffalo — QB J.P. Losman has thrown only two TD passes on the season. He doesn’t justify a spot on your roster. … After spraining his ankle against the Dolphins, RB Marshawn Lynch is almost certainly out this week, judging by coach **** Jauron’s comments. Keep him on your bench. … WR Lee Evans has been on a tear recently, averaging 116.5 yards the past four outings. But he has only two touchdowns on the season, and New England held him to one catch for seven yards in Week Three. This Patriots “D” is just too tough to expect him to do much of anything against it.
Miami — Eagles defensive coordinator Jim Johnson will blitz the heck out of rookie QB John Beck, who’s making his first career start. A combination of inexperience and lack of weapons will make it very tough for Beck to get anything going. … The Eagles allow just 100.1 yards on the ground, and now have the services of standout S Brian Dawkins. They’ll cheat him up to stop RB Jesse Chatman, Miami’s only legit offensive threat. Chatman was great in accounting for 149 yards from scrimmage last week, but this Philly defense is a far tougher test than Buffalo’s. Keep Chatman on the bench. … With Chris Chambers now in San Diego, Miami doesn’t have any proven receiving threats.
New England — The Patriots’ offense is playing at such an absurdly high level, all of the following need to be in your lineup: QB Tom Brady, WRs Randy Moss and Wes Welker, and TE Ben Watson. … The Patriots' defense is also a must-play against the Bills’ overmatched offense. … Unless you have a sterling receiving corps, WR Donté Stallworth should also be playing. … RB Laurence Maroney has frustrated his fantasy owners this season, rushing for a respectable 69.5 yards per game in the six contests in which he has played, but has failed to score a touchdown. He also adds almost nothing in the passing game. The Bills’ run defense is an improved unit, but still not good enough to stop the Pats if they choose to use the running game frequently. Maroney’s a decent, but not strong play.
New York Jets — The Steelers rank first in the league in both run and pass defense. The Jets rank 22nd in both run and pass offense. No Jets player merits a fantasy play this week, with the possible exception of WR Laveranues Coles — who has 473 yards and six touchdowns on the season — if you’re in a pinch.
AFC North
Baltimore — QB Kyle Boller draws a nice matchup this week with a Cleveland secondary that, even on its best day, is an unspectacular group. But do you rush to get Boller into the lineup? With no more bye weeks, the vast majority of owners have fewer serious lineup questions to answer. In short, it’s unlikely that Boller will be the top QB option for most owners. Look for Boller to take more shots down the field than former starter Steve McNair, which will boost the stock of WRs Mark Clayton and Devard Darling, the Ravens receivers most likely to run vertical routes. Clayton comes off his best game of the season and deserves consideration as a No. 3 receiver in bigger leagues. Darling will get work if WR Demetrius Williams (ankle) is out but won’t get enough opportunities to be an option in all but the deepest leagues. WR Derrick Mason remains a strong play in points-per-catch leagues. … The status of TE Todd Heap (thigh) needs to be monitored throughout the weekend before making a lineup decision on him.
Cincinnati — RB Rudi Johnson has indicated he’s still not completely healed from his hamstring injury, so he’s hard to recommend against an Arizona defense that ranks in the top 10 in yards per play allowed. The same can be said for Kenny Watson, who will also get some work, especially in passing situations. … The Arizona secondary has played to its potential all season, but star S Adrian Wilson could miss the Cincinnati game with a heel injury. If that happens, the Cardinals could really be up against it. That’s all the more reason to get QB Carson Palmer and WRs Chad Johnson and T.J. Houshmandzadeh into the lineup. Chris Henry will be a starting option in bigger leagues or leagues that start three receivers.
Cleveland — The Browns haven’t allowed a sack in the past two games. The Ravens’ secondary figures to again be without CB Samari Rolle. Those are just two reasons to have faith in QB Derek Anderson, WR Braylon Edwards and TE Kellen Winslow. If you have watched the Ravens of late, you’ll know the defense is not playing as well as it did a season ago. What’s more, it is too often being put into tough situations by a turnover-prone offense. Certainly there were some who jumped off the Anderson bandwagon after he struggled mightily in the second half vs. the Steelers’ defense in Week 10, but he still threw three TD passes. And again, let’s look at the sacks allowed statistic. If he’s more patient in the pocket, Anderson will have all the opportunity to find open receivers. ... RB Jamal Lewis will struggle to find much running room against a Ravens defense that’s No. 1 in yards allowed per rush; he’s only a sure-fire starter in bigger leagues.
Pittsburgh — We come to praise TE Heath Miller, who’s tied for the league lead in TDs at his position with the Colts' Dallas Clark. The funny thing is that Miller could be a backup for some owners in smaller leagues if those owners took, say, Antonio Gates or Jeremy Shockey early in drafts. No matter the situation, Miller could again put up nice numbers against the feeble Jets “D” in Week 11. … Only Tom Brady and Tony Romo have more TD passes than Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger. Fantasy owners can address their thank you cards to: Bruce Arians, offensive coordinator, Pittsburgh Steelers. … One of the most frustrating factors about having RB Willie Parker on your fantasy roster is how seemingly often he falls on his own or is tripped up one step from a huge run. It’s something you have to live with. Also, the lack of rushing TDs (one fewer than Cedric Benson!) is also a headache.
AFC South
Houston — RB Ahman Green will play with his right-knee injury the best he can quarter-to-quarter, week-to-week. Such a plan shouldn’t inspire any confidence in fantasy owners. Green should only be considered a starter in the biggest of leagues. Also, don’t rush out and start Ron Dayne, either; he’s going to get most of his work if Green can’t go. … The “Adimchinobe Echemandu Super-Sleeper Fan Club” has moved underground for the time being. Nevertheless, the Texans’ No. 3 back is a player to keep tabs on, if for no other reason that both Green and Dayne may not be in Houston beyond this season. … WR Andre Johnson and QB Matt Schaub are back this week; both are good plays against a struggling Saints secondary.
Indianapolis — QB Peyton Manning threw a nightmarish six interceptions last week in San Diego. He’ll have an easier time finding his rhythm back home in the RCA Dome, where he typically excels. With all the injuries to Indy’s offense, Manning is no longer the clear-cut No. 2 fantasy quarterback behind Tom Brady, but he’s still in the top five. … About the injuries: WRs Marvin Harrison (knee) and Anthony Gonzalez (thumb) both sat out practice as late as Thursday, so it’s a good bet they won’t play Sunday. Harrison is more likely to suit up, but in no way can you rely on him. … WR Reggie Wayne continues to shine in spite of the injuries around him. He was Manning’s only reliable target last week and needs to be a mainstay in your lineup. … TE Dallas Clark is back after sitting out last week with a concussion. As defenses have keyed in on him more, his production has suffered. However, he’s still an upper-echelon talent among the top 5-7 fantasy tight ends in the league. Kansas City’s good-but-not-great defense will have its hands full with him. … Even without stud DE Dwight Freeney, the Colts’ defense is an upper-crust unit. It ranks third in the league in total defense, yielding only 269.9 yards per game. With the Chiefs minus RB Larry Johnson and quarterbacked by inexperienced Brodie Croyle, it’s a must-play.
Jacksonville — The Jaguars get back QB David Garrard (ankle) for this week’s game vs. the Chargers. But he’s more of a game manager than playmaker and not a good fantasy play. He has only six TD passes this season. … RB Maurice Jones-Drew has gradually re-emerged as the most valuable back the Jaguars have, having a better burst and better receiving skills than backfield mate Fred Taylor. San Diego’s run defense hasn’t played up to its talent level this season, but is still good enough to give the Jags’ running game trouble. Jones-Drew is a decent play, Taylor, not so much. … Jacksonville’s defense has been wildly enigmatic, alternating between terrific and shoddy. Same with the Chargers’ offense. Play the Jaguars’ defense at your own risk. It’s a classic boom-or-bust option.
Tennessee — RB Chris Brown (ankle) is likely to be back this week. Brown may have been dropped in some leagues because of bye-week issues, and you could make worse waiver claims than one for a back racking up 5.3 yards per carry in a run-first offense. LenDale White remains the starter, but Brown will have a regular role in the offense. … Rookie RB Chris Henry faces a four-game suspension, but until he drops or loses his appeal, you might consider keeping him on the roster in the event that (1) White or Brown is injured and (2) he wins his appeal. It all depends on your depth at running back. … There has been lots of talk about QB Vince Young’s disappointing season. You certainly can’t start him with a lot of confidence right now, but dropping him is a risky proposition, given his vast potential.
AFC West
Denver — We hear WR Javon Walker’s return is still a few weeks away, at best. … Rookie RB Selvin Young looked quick and decisive as he rushed for 109 yards and a touchdown last week against Kansas City in just his second pro start. Until that point, the Broncos had lacked a 100-yard rushing performance in five of the previous six games, as injuries have helped make it a tumultuous year for Travis Henry. Henry will return from a bruised knee this week, but the growing sentiment in Denver is that Young may have earned a role regardless of Henry’s health, and the carries may be split more than fantasy owners would like going forward — or at least until Henry’s legal status is determined in court. Teammates like Young’s “extra gear” and feel he is a much bigger threat for the big play than Henry. … Expect TE Tony Scheffler to play this week after suffering a bruised chest stemming from a big hit against K.C.
Kansas City — With RB Larry Johnson out indefinitely with a foot sprain suffered in Week Nine, it will be Priest Holmes again manning the RB spot for the Chiefs. He looked pretty decent last week in carrying 20 times for 65 yards — numbers that would have looked better if not for a 13-yard loss — in his first significant action in two years. Head coach Herm Edwards stressed that it would be a shared workload between Holmes and rookie Kolby Smith, but Smith got only two carries as the Chiefs looked to get Holmes in a rhythm. … Second-year QB Brodie Croyle enters the starting lineup this week, replacing Damon Huard, as the Chiefs hope to get a glimpse of the future. Croyle handled the reins fairly well in the second half last week. The Chiefs like his mobility, arm and presence, but his decision-making still leaves a bit to be desired, which against a ball-hawking Colts secondary could spell trouble in his first NFL start.
Oakland — With Josh McCown nursing a thigh injury, it will be Daunte Culpepper back in the saddle for Oakland at quarterback against Minnesota. Culpepper teased fantasy owners with two passing touchdowns and three rushing scores against Miami in Week Four but has done little since and has a penchant for fumbling. … RB Justin Fargas has been a pleasant surprise in an otherwise lackluster year offensively for the Raiders. He totaled 81 rushing yards and 23 more as a receiver last week against Chicago and has gained a stellar 5.3 yards per carry behind a shaky offensive line since Week Three. But with all the QB problems in Oakland surely leading to the Vikings putting a few extra defenders in the box this week, if you have other options, it might be best to stay away from Fargas as he faces Minnesota’s third-ranked run defense on the road this week. … The Raiders’ defense, despite a good matchup vs. the Vikings with Adrian Peterson out of the lineup, has forced only two turnovers in the past four weeks and is still having difficulties stopping the run.
San Diego — It’s hard to get too excited about QB Philip Rivers these days. He has been held without a TD pass in three of the last four games and hasn’t crossed the 197-yard mark in four weeks. As a result, defenses are loading up to stop LaDainian Tomlinson, and TE Antonio Gates (four catches for 36 yards) and WRs Vincent Jackson (2-44) and Chris Chambers (7-76) have been rather quiet on the fantasy front. … Jacksonville hasn’t been its normally stingy self this season, ranking just 23rd overall and 27th in passing yards allowed. The feeling is that Rivers and crew should be able to take advantage of Jaguars safeties Reggie Nelson and Sammy Knight, especially on play-action. … With the help of six Peyton Manning interceptions last Sunday, the Chargers' defense has now forced 16 turnovers in its last four games.
NFC East
Dallas — The Giants managed to take TE Jason Witten out of the game with extra attention — not that it mattered; WR Terrell Owens more than picked up the slack — but the Redskins will have no way of doing the same. With FS Sean Taylor out, the Redskins are vulnerable in the middle of the field. In the nine plays Taylor missed, the Eagles racked up an average of 16.2 yards per play from that point on, not counting two kneel-downs. That means QB Tony Romo, Owens and Witten should be good for big points this week.
N.Y. Giants — The Lions lead the league in takeaways, which means that QB Eli Manning likely will give the ball away at least once. … TE Jeremy Shockey might have to continue to act as a de facto receiver. WR Plaxico Burress is hurting badly, and it doesn’t appear that his injured ankle will get much better. Burress owners should be very concerned from this point on. In fact, even against a suspect Lions secondary that normally would mean feasting, Burress rates as a low-grade starter. … Want a sleeper for the bottom of your bench? RB Ahmad Bradshaw appears to be out of Tom Coughlin’s doghouse and could get a few reps as a receiver, where the team is thin.
Philadelphia — The Eagles will try to get healthy against the Dolphins’ 30th-ranked run defense, but it should be noted that the Dolphins also rank 30th in yards per pass allowed and have holes throughout the secondary. This could be a bounce-back week for WR Kevin Curtis, who has slipped a bit, and another chance to break out for inconsistent WR Reggie Brown. And you should feel good about TE L.J. Smith again. He was a big part of the offense last week and could have a good chance at scoring again. … RB Brian Westbrook (knee) did not practice Thursday, but sources believe he’ll play.
Washington — The Redskins are extremely thin at receiver with Brandon Lloyd (clavicle) now out for the season and Santana Moss (heel) and James Thrash (ankle) not likely to play. That means your top three receivers are Antwaan Randle El, who’s likely to be doubled or bracketed, Keenan McCardell and Reche Caldwell. As for now, there is no fourth wideout. Don’t assume that all these guys getting hurt means that Randle El and TE Chris Cooley are good bets to go off. Instead, this could be a tough week for QB Jason Campbell and the pass catchers against a Cowboys secondary that has been pretty good.
NFC North
Chicago — QB Rex Grossman gets a chance to resurrect his career in Chicago with a starting assignment against the Seahawks this Sunday after coming to the rescue for the injured Brian Griese last Sunday in Oakland. It will be Grossman’s first start since a Week Three loss to Dallas, in which he threw three interceptions. The fantasy dilemma with Grossman remains the same: Will the Good Rex or the Bad Rex show up on Sunday? … WR Bernard Berrian, the beneficiary of Grossman’s 59-yard game-winning TD pass vs. the Raiders, could be an intriguing fantasy weapon this Sunday against a Seattle secondary which he torched for a 68-yard TD catch in the Bears’ playoff win over Seattle last season. Look for rookie TE Greg Olsen, a non-factor last week but the Bears’ leading receiver the previous four weeks combined, to possibly be a fantasy factor this Sunday against a Seattle defense that has had trouble with tight ends this season, most notably the Browns’ Kellen Winslow a few weeks ago. … Beleaguered Bears RB Cedric Benson (2.6 yards per carry vs. Oakland) scored a touchdown last Sunday for the first time since Week Five against the Packers.
Detroit — There are concerns about RB Kevin Jones’ achy foot, and it could mean that the team activates Tatum Bell or gives T.J. Duckett some more chances against the Giants. … QB Jon Kitna has been criticized for not getting rid of the ball quickly enough, so look for the Lions to try to slow down the Giants’ pass rush with more three-step drops this week. Expect good rhythm in the passing game and more passes to slot guys, Mike Furrey and Shaun McDonald.
Green Bay — QB Brett Favre just keeps merrily rolling along, putting up huge fantasy numbers on a weekly basis with the help of an extremely deep and talented receiving corps. Favre has thrown for an NFL-best 2,757 yards with twice as many touchdowns (16) as interceptions (8). He also has six 300-yard passing efforts in his last seven games. … RB Ryan Grant, who is starting to come on at just the right time (two 100-yard rushing efforts in the last three games), could very well do some damage this Sunday against a below-average Panthers run defense (tied for 18th).
Minnesota — Stay away. With RB Adrian Peterson out, the only player worth starting here would be replacement Chester Taylor against the Raiders’ 29th-ranked run defense (dead last in yards per carry). Taylor might have a good game, despite the Raiders not respecting the passing skills of Tarvaris Jackson, who is expected to start. As a result, the play-action pass likely is moot, and that means no other receivers are safe bets.
NFC South
Atlanta — The Falcons have won two straight, but it has been the defense, not head coach Bobby Petrino’s much-hyped offense that is leading the way. Petrino said this week that QB Byron Leftwich, who missed the past two games while recovering from ankle surgery, would be the team’s starter when he’s healthy. Leftwich returned to practice this week and there’s an outside chance he could start over QB Joey Harrington Sunday against the Buccaneers. Until Petrino names an official starter, neither signalcaller should factor much into your plans for fantasy this week. … Falcons RB Warrick Dunn followed up a 100-yard rushing performance with an 89-yard game last week. He has seen an increased workload with RB Jerious Norwood out with an ankle injury and is a solid start against the Bucs, who are tougher against the pass than the run. … TE Alge Crumpler came back with a bang last week, scoring Atlanta’s game-winning touchdown in the final seconds against Carolina. There have been questions about whether his aching knees will hold up for the rest of the season, but judging by his scamper to the endzone against the Panthers, Crumpler appears to be healthy enough and a viable option at tight end.
Carolina — For the first time in two weeks, the Panthers will enter a game with both of their top quarterbacks available — Vinny Testaverde and David Carr. Head coach John Fox has yet to name a starter, but that shouldn’t affect your lineup. Testaverde and Carr have led Carolina to just 27 points in the last three games combined and are not worth fantasy consideration. … Panthers WR Steve Smith missed multiple practices this week with a shin injury, but he should take the field Sunday against the Packers. Keep in mind, however, that he has had just one 100-yard receiving game since Week Two. … RBs DeShaun Foster and DeAngelo Williams are starting to cancel each other out in terms of fantasy value. Each takes carries away from the other and while they offer a solid 1-2 punch combined, their numbers aren’t so impressive individually.
New Orleans — Saints QB Drew Brees will be challenged by a solid Texans secondary on Sunday and could struggle, as he did last week against the Rams. Brees threw two interceptions vs. St. Louis, after throwing just one in his previous four outings. The turnovers hurt, but Brees’ big-play potential is too strong to consider benching him. … Saints RB Reggie Bush was held to 17 yards rushing on seven carries last week, although he did run for a touchdown. Overall, Bush has been a disappointment to fantasy owners who expected more explosiveness from the second-year running back. Expect head coach Sean Payton to get back to running the ball after going to the ground just 11 times last week. Bush should be able to find holes against the 24th-ranked Texans run defense. … Saints WR Marques Colston has put together an impressive three-game stretch, catching 26 passes for 373 yards. His production will diminish slightly this week, but he is finally looking like the top-tier fantasy receiver that he looked like last season.
Tampa Bay — Count on a low-scoring matchup this week. Bucs QB Jeff Garcia should be refreshed after the bye week, but he will meet a Falcons secondary that is playing its best ball of the season. Atlanta’s pass rush has improved in recent weeks, thanks to DT Rod Coleman, who is finally healthy after suffering two serious leg injuries before the season. This is a good week to bench Garcia. … Bucs RB Earnest Graham has been a pleasant surprise for fantasy owners, but his workload should lessen with RB Michael Pittman back after tearing ankle ligaments in Week Five against Indianapolis. It’s not time to bail on Graham, but expect his carries and yardage to decline slightly. … Bucs WR Joey Galloway will be dogged all game by Falcons CB DeAngelo Hall, and Garcia will be forced to look at the other side of the field, where WR Ike Hilliard will be matched up against rookie CB Chris Houston. Hilliard is a fantasy sleeper this week and Galloway might warrant consideration for your bench.
NFC West
Arizona — Don’t be surprised if backup RBs J.J. Arrington and Marcel Shipp start taking away some touches from starter Edgerrin James, particularly Arrington, who adds badly needed speed to the offense. That said, James will still get plenty of carries and could do some damage this Sunday in Cincinnati vs. the Bengals’ 27th-ranked run defense. … Cincy’s equally porous pass defense should prove to the liking of QB Kurt Warner and WRs Larry Fitzgerald (8-74-2 in Week 10) and Anquan Boldin. While Fitzgerald is red-hot with an NFC-leading 58 catches for 811 yards (second-best in NFC), Boldin has been limited lately by a lingering hip injury and is having trouble making his cuts and picking up yards after his catches, which is usually his forte. … Keep an eye on TE Leonard Pope, who scored a career-high two TDs in Week 10 and added career highs for receptions (five) and receiving yards (52).
St. Louis — QB Marc Bulger burst out of the second-half chute with fire in his eyes, looking every bit like the fantasy heavyweight he was last season in his performance last Sunday against the Saints (27-of-33 passing, 302 yards, two TDs with zero interceptions). Look for Bulger to be seeking major revenge this Sunday against a San Francisco defense that sacked him six times in the Niners’ Week Two victory. WR Isaac Bruce, who left the Saints game late in the third quarter with a sore hamstring, was practicing by mid-week without any problems. Before leaving the Saints game, Bruce had four catches for 62 yards, including his first TD catch of the season. … RB Steven Jackson, whose 22 carries and five receptions for a combined 100 yards and a TD last week were more than most close observers expected, could have some fantasy success against a Niners run defense that is really starting to unravel, particularly on the perimeter. WR Torry Holt, who has topped 100 yards receiving the past two games, faces a tough matchup with Niners CB Nate Clements, which might make Bruce and No. 3 WR Drew Bennett more likely TD targets for Bulger this Sunday. Bennett looked completely recovered from the quad injury that bothered him the first half of the season on his acrobatic TD catch against New Orleans.
San Francisco — With QB Alex Smith perhaps mercifully out of the picture with injuries to his throwing shoulder and forearm, Trent Dilfer will start under center this Sunday vs. the Rams. … The Niners will be looking to get much more out of TE Vernon Davis, who had only one catch for four yards against Seattle last Monday night after catching seven passes for 77 yards vs. Atlanta a week earlier. … RB Frank Gore, who rushed for 72 yards (5.5-yard average) vs. Seattle, had 20 carries for 81 yards and a pair of TDs in the Niners’ Week Two win over the Rams.
Seattle — RB Shaun Alexander, who sat out Seattle’s Monday-night victory over the Niners with a sprained left knee, wasn’t scheduled to test the knee until practice Friday. Whether he plays or not, you might be better served if you have Maurice Morris on your fantasy team. Morris, who had 87 yards rushing and a TD vs. the Niners, is a much better pass catcher and blocker than Alexander, which makes him a better fit in a Seahawks offense that is going back to its roots, heavily emphasizing the passing game. It’s an approach that bodes well for QB Matt Hasselbeck, who has been a consistently solid fantasy QB all season regardless of the scheme. … The Bears’ secondary is coming off one of its best efforts of the season against Oakland, but Seattle’s WR arsenal should prove to be a much bigger challenge. WR Deion Branch, who has missed the last four games with a foot injury, has looked lively in practice this week and finally should be ready to return to the lineup this Sunday against Chicago. WR D.J. Hackett, who has missed most of the season with an ankle injury, is coming off a strong outing vs. the Niners (8-101-1). … Is backup TE Will Heller a viable fantasy option? With three TD catches in the past three games, that just might be the case. We hear the Hawks really like the 6-foot-6 Heller in red-zone situations.
I was wondering the same thing..... poor reporting IMO.Willis has been solid every week and you would have to think Cleveland would be a great matchup for him as the Ravens would look to pound the ball to keep the Browns Offense off the field (did I just type that..wow how things change in a year)
I see this game as the fantasy explosion game of the week...could be almost as rewarding as the browns / bengals game earlier this year...plenty of back and fourth scoring 
