Sizing Up Week 9 Fantasy Football
Nov 5 2010, 6:11 AM
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All I wanted for us was a peaceful journey through the second-to-last BYE period, but damn if fantasy forces didn't brew up a hailstorm to shift through.
There are still a great many question marks entering the weekend and I can see the fiery explosion of various possibilities that awaits us. Will Austin Collie return early and be a factor? Can Antonio Gates continue to man-up and play in a desperately needed AFC game for the target-less Chargers on the road? How will LT and the Jets road-answer for their humbling demise at home?
Regardless of what may come, remember a team is only as good as its weakest link, and this week, it might just be your stud.


Certainly Start: Michael Turner, Mike Williams, , Roddy White, Tony Gonzalez
Consider: Matt Ryan, Josh Freeman, Kellen Winslow, LaGarrette Blount, ATL D/ST, Connor Barth, Matt Bryant
Hold back: Sammie Stroughter, Michael Spurlock, Cadillac Williams
Sleepers: Jason Snelling, TB D/ST
The NFC South hasn't been this wide-open in years, with the Bucs and Falcons playing just as good, if not better, than the Saints, this will make for a supremely interesting game. The Buccaneers have been road warriors this year, taking down the Bengals, Panthers and Cardinals in their own houses, but don't expect similar results out of Tampa Bay in Atlanta. The Falcons are currently undefeated at home this year, and coming off their BYE, they should be rested and ready to defend home turf. Michael Turner, Roddy White and Tony Gonzalez are all must starts on Atlanta, but don't expect a super huge day out of Matt Ryan, or Josh Freeman, for that matter, as both defenses defend the pass decent enough. Still, if you have either they are probably your starting QB, so don't go picking up Jason Campbell just because you heard through the grape-vine he's going to blow up this weekend, because most likely that trend ends against KC. The LaGarrette Blount explosion last week should remain contained here as the Falcons stiffly stack the box, so that's also a no-go on Cadillac Williams if you were wondering.

Certainly Start: Fred Jackson, Matt Forte, Johnny Knox, Jay Cutler, Steve Johnson, Ryan Fitzpatrick, Greg Olsen
Consider: C.J. Spiller, Devin Hester, Lee Evans, CHI D/ST, Robbie Gould, Rian Lindell
Hold back: BUF D/ST, Earl Bennett, Chester Taylor
Sleepers: Roscoe Parrish
Yet another wonderful exhibition of two mediocre squads on foreign soil. I can't help but feel a little sorry for Buffalo - they've got the pieces, they just have one hell of a gnarly schedule. Ryan Fitzpatrick has been playing lights-out (Welcome, Shawne!) since the culling of Trent Edwards, and has made modest commodities out of Lee Evans and Steve Johnson. Fred Jackson has steadily seen his production increase after the trading of Marshawn Lynch and should be a decent enough play in this game. If you're thin at WR and feeling spunky, Roscoe Parrish could wow, not amaze. The Bears are coming off their BYE and a defeat at the hands of the Redskins at home, but the only thing that has changed since then is the calendar. They still have issues on the offensive line and the defense has allowed a healthy amount of passing yards to opposing QB's, which have sunk them in their four losses. Despite, neither of those things are enough to warrant benching your regular Bears. Keep an eye on the WR's in Chicago this week though, as a new role player could emerge after a week to re-group.
Certainly Start: Tom Brady, Peyton Hillis, Stephen Gostkowski, Benjamin Watson, Phil Dawson
Consider: Wes Welker, Brandon Tate, BenJarvis Green-Ellis, Aaron Hernandez, NE D/ST, CLE D/ST, Danny Woodhead
Hold back: Colt McCoy, Jake Delhomme, Seneca Wallace, Mohammad Massoquoai, Julian Edelman, Rob Gronkowski, Deion Branch, Josh Cribbs
Sleepers: Mike Bell
Yes, all signs point to a massive blow-out by the Patriots, but this wreaks of upset to me. Sure, the burn of Spy-Gate is still in the hearts and minds of the Patriots, and no doubt Coach Belichick will want to smear Eric Mangini's face into the stain his team leaves on the Browns field, yet there could be a few grab-bag surprises in store for both squads. I don't need to tell you to play Tom Brady, but the Browns defense was playing tough before their BYE, and held Drew Brees in check enough for them to steal a victory from the champs in New Orleans, making targets Deion Branch, Brandon Tate, Wes Welker and Aaron Hernandez less than usually desirable. Both defenses are allowing over 100+ yards to opposing running backs, so naturally Peyton Hillis and BenJarvis Green-Ellis get the go-ahead, but I'm queasy on Danny Woodhead this week, if only because of Law Firm's success last week.

Certainly Start: LaDainian Tomlinson, Calvin Johnson, NY D/ST, Jason Hanson, Nick Folk
Consider: Shonn Greene, Mark Sanchez, Santonio Holmes, Braylon Edwards, Dustin Keller, Nick Folk, Matthew Stafford, Nate Burleson, Brandon Pettigrew
Hold back: Tony Scheffler, Jerricho Cotchery, Jahvid Best, Kevin Smith
Sleepers: DET D/ST
A test of true opposites, this should be a showcasing of grind & pound by LaDainian Tomlinson/Shonn Greene to the dash & splash of Calvin Johnson/Brandon Pettigrew/Matthew Stafford. The Jets pass game is in dire needs of rejuvenation after Mark Sanchez's second week of turnover madness, but the only target likely to feel the aerial love here is Dustin Keller. Jerricho Cotchery's performance last week was one for the books, but sadly for him that book skips chapters frequently. The Jets should dominate this game, and I doubt a sub-double digit score from either team, but save Jahvid Best for your next match-up. If you have any other options, even a split-situation back, they are probably a better choice. Detroit has the gumption to keep up with New York, but the only thing that can save them from this massacre is their own defense.

Certainly Start: Adrian Peterson, Percy Harvin (injury), Visanthe Shiancoe, Larry Fitzgerald
Consider: Greg Camarillo, MIN D/ST, Ryan Longwell, Steve Breaston, LaRod Stephens-Howling (injury), Jay Feely
Hold back: ARZ D/ST, Beanie Wells (injury), Tim Hightower, Derek Anderson, Max Hal, Brett Favre, Bernard Berrian, Greg Lewis, Toby Gerhart
Sleepers: Early Doucet
Minnesota mostly dominates Arizona in all statistical team categories, but they are no longer the same team that acquired those lines. The loss of Randy Moss will bring this team back down to turf, as defenses will no longer split defenders for Moss, and will return full attention to Percy Harvin in the slot and Adrian Peterson in the box, but of course you are playing both (unless Harvin is out). Brett Favre has been fantasy fodder all season, so it wouldn't hurt to watch Tavaris Jackson after his successful stint last week in case of Childress-Favre rapture. Visanthe Shiancoe should benefit the most, if anyone does, from Moss leaving, as should Greg Camarillo. It's unclear whether or not Beanie Wells will play as of this writing, and if Law-Firm West (Stephens-Howling) can't go, the starting role should fall back to Tim Hightower. Larry Fitzgerald and Steve Breaston are worth a gamble, but reign in any wild hairs about Derek Anderson, he's a desperation play ONLY and not to be trusted with your fate this weekend.

Certainly Start: Drew Brees, Marques Colston, Jonathan Stewart, NO D/ST
Consider: Steve Smith, Jeremy Shockey, Lance Moore, John Kasay, Garrett Hartley, Julius Jones
Hold back: DeAngelo Williams (injury), CAR D/ST, Matt Moore, David Gettis, Ladell Betts, Chris Ivory (injury), Devery Henderson, Robert Meachem
Sleepers: Brandon LaFell
Our second re-match of the year. This one got ugly the first time around, as both defenses came to the school-yard to tussle. There aren't a lot of fantasy morsels to be had here, but the no-duh is Drew Brees. As for who he's hitting with those ropes, it's a duck hunt. Marques Colston hasn't done much in his past few games against the Carolina secondary, but he's recently come-on in the clutch for Brees, so I'd play him for the upside. If someone can emerge healthy from the Saints backfield of Ladell Betts (likely out), Chris Ivory (questionable) and Julius Jones (most likely), I like them, but good luck there. Jeremy Shockey and Lance Moore look more preferable from the riff-raff buffet left. DeAngelo Williams is out for the second week, making Jonathan Stewart his replacement again and a viable RB2. If anyone other than Steve Smith are going to claw into the end zone, it would probably be Brandon LaFell - did you see that score last week? The man WANTED it. Badly.

Certainly Start: Joe Flacco, Chad Henne, Ray Rice, Brandon Marshall, Anquan Boldin, Dan Carpenter
Consider: Ricky Williams, Ronnie Brown, Todd Heap, Davone Bess, Anthony Fasano, MIA D/ST, BAL D/ST
Hold back: Derrick Mason (injury), Willis McGahee, Donte' Stallworth
Sleepers: Brian Hartline/T.J. Houshmandzadeh
No two teams reflect the truer essence of streaking than the Dolphins and the Ravens. The Fins are on a four game road win-streak (aka undefeated on the road), while the Ravens are riding a three game home win-streak (aka undefeated at home) and are returning from their BYE. In recent history, Baltimore has virtually owned Miami, and the team has barely changed in that time. Joe Flacco to Anquan Boldin should fit nicely into the Miami secondary, and even if Derrick Mason sits, T.J. Houshmandzadeh has played them before with success, not to mention Todd Heap and shifty Ray Rice. Need I tell you that I like the Ravens offense this week? That said, Miami isn't too shabby either. Chad Henne should be able to contribute a reasonable day so long as Davone Bess continues to use the field as Brandon Marshall stretches it. Ronnie and Ricky don't thrill me, yet the resurrection of the Wild Cat is always looming. Dan Carpenter has been out totaling a lot of WR & RB's for a few weeks now, in fact, he's Captain of five of my teams, and with the way the Dolphins like to fiddle around in the red zone, he's a pony boy.

Certainly Start: Philip Rivers, Antonio Gates, Matt Schaub, Andre Johnson (injury), Arian Foster, Ryan Matthews, Mike Tolbert, Patrick Crayton
Consider: Neil Rackers, SD D/ST, Kris Brown, Owen Daniels, Seyi Ajirotutu
Hold back: Jacoby Jones, Kevin Walter, HOU D/ST, Malcolm Floyd (injury), Buster Davis (injury), Legedu Naanee (injury)
Sleepers: Darren Sproles, Joel Dreessen
Tally-ho! I thought the MNF game was a barn-burner, but this is fitting to be an all-out forest fire. It's disappointing that Antonio Gates is likely out with his toe injury, but it really makes no sense why all the sudden he is unable to play. His monster game last week was much appreciated by owners everywhere so this stings, especially in such a juicy match-up. Even though the Chargers are on the road, I think they've been slowly building some momentum after the Oakland loss and are primed for their first road victory, maybe. The lack of options for Rivers is certainly concerning, but the check-down machine of Darren Sproles could do many owners right. Matt Schaub will want redemption at home, but with the ankle concerns of Andre Johnson, there's a good chance the SD defense will shut him, Jacoby Jones and Owen Daniels down, making Arian Foster the best Texan option this week. The Texans are a good team, but the loss of DeMeco Ryans is considerable and it shows, making Ryan Matthews and Mike Tolbert good options also.

Certainly Start: Eli Manning, Ahmad Bradshaw, Hakeem Nicks, Steve Smith, NYG D/ST
Consider: Brandon Jacobs, Olindo Mare, Mike Williams, Marshawn Lynch, Justin Forsett, Lawrence Tynes, John Carlson
Hold back: SEA D/ST, Golden Tate, Matt Hasselbeck (injury), Kevin Boss
Sleepers: Deon Butler, Mario Manningham
I understand the Seahawks are one of the best home team's in the league, but the Giants appear to be one of the best road teams in the league. After losing to big brother Manning's Colts on SNF, Eli has led 'Jet Blue' on a two game road win-streak (@ DAL, @ HOU) in impressive fashion. The Seahawks were trampled last week in Oakland, and with the loss of DE Red Bryant for the year, Marshawn Lynch and Justin Forsett become considerably less attractive. Besides, Matt Hasselbeck is out, with Charlie Whitehurst in, and a rookie against the Giants defense doesn't inspire confidence, not for him, Mike Williams, Deon Butler, Golden Tate, John Carlson, or Olindo Mare, but if you must in certain places, you must. Otherwise, deploy all Giants at will and enjoy the reaping.

Certainly Start: Darren McFadden, Thomas Jones, Jamaal Charles, Michael Bush, Dwayne Bowe, Tony Moeaki
Consider: KC D/ST, OAK D/ST, Ryan Succop, Sebastian Janikowski, Darrius Heyward-Bey, Marcel Reese
Hold back: Zach Miller (injury), Louis Murphy (injury), Jason Campbell, Bruce Gradkowski, Dexter McCluster (injury), Chris Chambers
Sleepers: Terrance Copper
What's more shocking - the Raiders are .500-- or that they are actually playing for the AFC West lead, against the Chiefs? My chin is typinzi dtkhis. The Chiefs, on paper, are the better team, but it won't be the Kansas City offense that helps them to win in this one, unless Nnamdi Asomugha is out. It should be the tried and true league leaders Thomas Jones and Jamaal Charles that top this contests fantasy potential. Matching them across the line will be Darren McFadden and Michael Bush, although I find Bush less attractive considering he got by on garbage in last week's blow out. The Raiders are ailing a bit, with their BYE on the horizon, they could actually nail down a win-streak. Zach Miller is questionable and of course Nnamdi, so keep up on both of those by listening to our Week 9 Preview PODCAST TOMORROW 12/3 !

Certainly Start: Peyton Manning, Reggie Wayne, Pierre Garcon, Michael Vick, LeSean McCoy, Jeremy Maclin
Consider: DeSean Jackson (injury), Brent Celek, Mike Hart (injury), Donald Brown (injury), Javarris James, Adam Vinatieri, David Akers, Jacob Tamme
Hold back: Joseph Addai (injury), Austin Collie (injury), Anthony Gonzalez (injury), PHI D/ST, IND D/ST, Kevin Kolb
Sleepers: Jerome Harrison
It's the return of Michael Vick, in what should be a good day for him and LeSean McCoy against the mediocre Colts rush defense. Depending on how much clock the Eagles can use up will depend on how much production we see out of Reggie Wayne and Pierre Garcon, although, should the Colts get down at all, consider me geeked for what may come. A little birdy told me that Austin Collie could play this weekend, but the hand is a delicate thing and that's his lifeblood so only if you really want to measure up. The Indy backfield is murky as ever, but if Donald Brown is the starter, I still like Mike Hart. Javarris James takes the lead if neither can go, but do you really want to go there? I didn't think so, just stay away if you can as the Philadelphia defense is returning rested and was already stingy against the run before their BYE. This could be a nice game for DeSean Jackson to pass the torch to Jeremy Maclin in terms of the 'it' fantasy player. Maclin scores, Jackson boasts. I'll take the guy that scores.

Certainly Start: Aaron Rodgers, Greg Jennings, GB D/ST, Mason Crosby, Miles Austin, Dez Bryant
Consider: Marion Barber, Jason Witten, Brandon Jackson, James Jones, David Buehler, Jordy Nelson, Andrew Quarless, Donald Lee
Hold back: Jon Kitna, Felix Jones (injury), John Kuhn
Sleepers: Tashard Choice
All systems are go on Green Bay. The Cowboys have given up some big days to QB's recently, and Aaron Rodgers isn't just any QB. Greg Jennings, James Jones and Jordy Nelson could all explode for worthwhile days, so take your pick and run. Even Brandon Jackson is a worthy play considering the match-up's this week, and if you really must go into the TE pool here, I'd snag Donald Lee if he plays. Should Dallas play down at all, who am I kidding though, Miles Austin, Jason Witten and Dez Bryant fare to do well in the dumping grounds, and with Felix Jones possibly out, a return of Marion Barber could be in order. Green Bay will be itching to score some TD's after their FG frenzy last week, and at Lambeau, that's a tall order for Jon Kitna to compete with.

Certainly Start: PIT D/ST, Rashard Mendenhall, Terrell Owens, Chad OchoCinco, Ben Roethlisberger, Mike Wallace, Hines Ward, Carson Palmer, Mike Nugent, Jeff Reed
Consider: Cedric Benson, Jermaine Gresham, Heath Miller
Hold back: CIN D/ST
Sleepers: Jordan Shipley
It's not a good sign for the Steelers that they lost to the Saints on the road. They needed to win that game, and since they didn't, they will play this game with even more urgency, especially considering it's a road-division game against the team that swept them last season. Look, I'm not endorsing the Steelers for the win, I'm endorsing Rashard Mendenhall to get jiggy and Ben Roethlisberger to find Mike Wallace and Hines Ward often. Heath Miller doesn't thrill me, but if you're ailing, I get it. As for Cincinnati, they have been putting up numbers and staying in games, but there's just something missing. They don't have that spark that makes you think they are going to drive down the field and do what they need to do when they need to do it. Cedric Benson has been a huge failure this season, and other than some big yardage days for OchoCinco, the union of Terrell Owens and Carson Palmer seems to be this year's Tony Romo to Miles Austin. Jermaine Gresham is also a flyer TE if you're riding the donkey, but should you be ailing, Jordan Shipley looks like an above-average sleeper against the Steelers defense that leaves the hunting grounds open.
On a side note-
I will be representing for the Fantasy Geek tomorrow on The Sports Bartender live streaming on Justin.Tv presented by GeekWeekOnline.
So if you're just getting out of work, or hopefully happy hour, perhaps pre-gaming for the weekend, or just chillin at Starbucks, I'd appreciate your audience, tune in and check out some delicious sports banter for your fan-da-monious enjoyment.
Bomb Voyage.
The Major
All I wanted for us was a peaceful journey through the second-to-last BYE period, but damn if fantasy forces didn't brew up a hailstorm to shift through.
There are still a great many question marks entering the weekend and I can see the fiery explosion of various possibilities that awaits us. Will Austin Collie return early and be a factor? Can Antonio Gates continue to man-up and play in a desperately needed AFC game for the target-less Chargers on the road? How will LT and the Jets road-answer for their humbling demise at home?
Regardless of what may come, remember a team is only as good as its weakest link, and this week, it might just be your stud.
Certainly Start: Michael Turner, Mike Williams, , Roddy White, Tony Gonzalez
Consider: Matt Ryan, Josh Freeman, Kellen Winslow, LaGarrette Blount, ATL D/ST, Connor Barth, Matt Bryant
Hold back: Sammie Stroughter, Michael Spurlock, Cadillac Williams
Sleepers: Jason Snelling, TB D/ST
The NFC South hasn't been this wide-open in years, with the Bucs and Falcons playing just as good, if not better, than the Saints, this will make for a supremely interesting game. The Buccaneers have been road warriors this year, taking down the Bengals, Panthers and Cardinals in their own houses, but don't expect similar results out of Tampa Bay in Atlanta. The Falcons are currently undefeated at home this year, and coming off their BYE, they should be rested and ready to defend home turf. Michael Turner, Roddy White and Tony Gonzalez are all must starts on Atlanta, but don't expect a super huge day out of Matt Ryan, or Josh Freeman, for that matter, as both defenses defend the pass decent enough. Still, if you have either they are probably your starting QB, so don't go picking up Jason Campbell just because you heard through the grape-vine he's going to blow up this weekend, because most likely that trend ends against KC. The LaGarrette Blount explosion last week should remain contained here as the Falcons stiffly stack the box, so that's also a no-go on Cadillac Williams if you were wondering.
Certainly Start: Fred Jackson, Matt Forte, Johnny Knox, Jay Cutler, Steve Johnson, Ryan Fitzpatrick, Greg Olsen
Consider: C.J. Spiller, Devin Hester, Lee Evans, CHI D/ST, Robbie Gould, Rian Lindell
Hold back: BUF D/ST, Earl Bennett, Chester Taylor
Sleepers: Roscoe Parrish
Yet another wonderful exhibition of two mediocre squads on foreign soil. I can't help but feel a little sorry for Buffalo - they've got the pieces, they just have one hell of a gnarly schedule. Ryan Fitzpatrick has been playing lights-out (Welcome, Shawne!) since the culling of Trent Edwards, and has made modest commodities out of Lee Evans and Steve Johnson. Fred Jackson has steadily seen his production increase after the trading of Marshawn Lynch and should be a decent enough play in this game. If you're thin at WR and feeling spunky, Roscoe Parrish could wow, not amaze. The Bears are coming off their BYE and a defeat at the hands of the Redskins at home, but the only thing that has changed since then is the calendar. They still have issues on the offensive line and the defense has allowed a healthy amount of passing yards to opposing QB's, which have sunk them in their four losses. Despite, neither of those things are enough to warrant benching your regular Bears. Keep an eye on the WR's in Chicago this week though, as a new role player could emerge after a week to re-group.
Certainly Start: Tom Brady, Peyton Hillis, Stephen Gostkowski, Benjamin Watson, Phil Dawson
Consider: Wes Welker, Brandon Tate, BenJarvis Green-Ellis, Aaron Hernandez, NE D/ST, CLE D/ST, Danny Woodhead
Hold back: Colt McCoy, Jake Delhomme, Seneca Wallace, Mohammad Massoquoai, Julian Edelman, Rob Gronkowski, Deion Branch, Josh Cribbs
Sleepers: Mike Bell
Yes, all signs point to a massive blow-out by the Patriots, but this wreaks of upset to me. Sure, the burn of Spy-Gate is still in the hearts and minds of the Patriots, and no doubt Coach Belichick will want to smear Eric Mangini's face into the stain his team leaves on the Browns field, yet there could be a few grab-bag surprises in store for both squads. I don't need to tell you to play Tom Brady, but the Browns defense was playing tough before their BYE, and held Drew Brees in check enough for them to steal a victory from the champs in New Orleans, making targets Deion Branch, Brandon Tate, Wes Welker and Aaron Hernandez less than usually desirable. Both defenses are allowing over 100+ yards to opposing running backs, so naturally Peyton Hillis and BenJarvis Green-Ellis get the go-ahead, but I'm queasy on Danny Woodhead this week, if only because of Law Firm's success last week.
Certainly Start: LaDainian Tomlinson, Calvin Johnson, NY D/ST, Jason Hanson, Nick Folk
Consider: Shonn Greene, Mark Sanchez, Santonio Holmes, Braylon Edwards, Dustin Keller, Nick Folk, Matthew Stafford, Nate Burleson, Brandon Pettigrew
Hold back: Tony Scheffler, Jerricho Cotchery, Jahvid Best, Kevin Smith
Sleepers: DET D/ST
A test of true opposites, this should be a showcasing of grind & pound by LaDainian Tomlinson/Shonn Greene to the dash & splash of Calvin Johnson/Brandon Pettigrew/Matthew Stafford. The Jets pass game is in dire needs of rejuvenation after Mark Sanchez's second week of turnover madness, but the only target likely to feel the aerial love here is Dustin Keller. Jerricho Cotchery's performance last week was one for the books, but sadly for him that book skips chapters frequently. The Jets should dominate this game, and I doubt a sub-double digit score from either team, but save Jahvid Best for your next match-up. If you have any other options, even a split-situation back, they are probably a better choice. Detroit has the gumption to keep up with New York, but the only thing that can save them from this massacre is their own defense.
Certainly Start: Adrian Peterson, Percy Harvin (injury), Visanthe Shiancoe, Larry Fitzgerald
Consider: Greg Camarillo, MIN D/ST, Ryan Longwell, Steve Breaston, LaRod Stephens-Howling (injury), Jay Feely
Hold back: ARZ D/ST, Beanie Wells (injury), Tim Hightower, Derek Anderson, Max Hal, Brett Favre, Bernard Berrian, Greg Lewis, Toby Gerhart
Sleepers: Early Doucet
Minnesota mostly dominates Arizona in all statistical team categories, but they are no longer the same team that acquired those lines. The loss of Randy Moss will bring this team back down to turf, as defenses will no longer split defenders for Moss, and will return full attention to Percy Harvin in the slot and Adrian Peterson in the box, but of course you are playing both (unless Harvin is out). Brett Favre has been fantasy fodder all season, so it wouldn't hurt to watch Tavaris Jackson after his successful stint last week in case of Childress-Favre rapture. Visanthe Shiancoe should benefit the most, if anyone does, from Moss leaving, as should Greg Camarillo. It's unclear whether or not Beanie Wells will play as of this writing, and if Law-Firm West (Stephens-Howling) can't go, the starting role should fall back to Tim Hightower. Larry Fitzgerald and Steve Breaston are worth a gamble, but reign in any wild hairs about Derek Anderson, he's a desperation play ONLY and not to be trusted with your fate this weekend.
Certainly Start: Drew Brees, Marques Colston, Jonathan Stewart, NO D/ST
Consider: Steve Smith, Jeremy Shockey, Lance Moore, John Kasay, Garrett Hartley, Julius Jones
Hold back: DeAngelo Williams (injury), CAR D/ST, Matt Moore, David Gettis, Ladell Betts, Chris Ivory (injury), Devery Henderson, Robert Meachem
Sleepers: Brandon LaFell
Our second re-match of the year. This one got ugly the first time around, as both defenses came to the school-yard to tussle. There aren't a lot of fantasy morsels to be had here, but the no-duh is Drew Brees. As for who he's hitting with those ropes, it's a duck hunt. Marques Colston hasn't done much in his past few games against the Carolina secondary, but he's recently come-on in the clutch for Brees, so I'd play him for the upside. If someone can emerge healthy from the Saints backfield of Ladell Betts (likely out), Chris Ivory (questionable) and Julius Jones (most likely), I like them, but good luck there. Jeremy Shockey and Lance Moore look more preferable from the riff-raff buffet left. DeAngelo Williams is out for the second week, making Jonathan Stewart his replacement again and a viable RB2. If anyone other than Steve Smith are going to claw into the end zone, it would probably be Brandon LaFell - did you see that score last week? The man WANTED it. Badly.
Certainly Start: Joe Flacco, Chad Henne, Ray Rice, Brandon Marshall, Anquan Boldin, Dan Carpenter
Consider: Ricky Williams, Ronnie Brown, Todd Heap, Davone Bess, Anthony Fasano, MIA D/ST, BAL D/ST
Hold back: Derrick Mason (injury), Willis McGahee, Donte' Stallworth
Sleepers: Brian Hartline/T.J. Houshmandzadeh
No two teams reflect the truer essence of streaking than the Dolphins and the Ravens. The Fins are on a four game road win-streak (aka undefeated on the road), while the Ravens are riding a three game home win-streak (aka undefeated at home) and are returning from their BYE. In recent history, Baltimore has virtually owned Miami, and the team has barely changed in that time. Joe Flacco to Anquan Boldin should fit nicely into the Miami secondary, and even if Derrick Mason sits, T.J. Houshmandzadeh has played them before with success, not to mention Todd Heap and shifty Ray Rice. Need I tell you that I like the Ravens offense this week? That said, Miami isn't too shabby either. Chad Henne should be able to contribute a reasonable day so long as Davone Bess continues to use the field as Brandon Marshall stretches it. Ronnie and Ricky don't thrill me, yet the resurrection of the Wild Cat is always looming. Dan Carpenter has been out totaling a lot of WR & RB's for a few weeks now, in fact, he's Captain of five of my teams, and with the way the Dolphins like to fiddle around in the red zone, he's a pony boy.
Certainly Start: Philip Rivers, Antonio Gates, Matt Schaub, Andre Johnson (injury), Arian Foster, Ryan Matthews, Mike Tolbert, Patrick Crayton
Consider: Neil Rackers, SD D/ST, Kris Brown, Owen Daniels, Seyi Ajirotutu
Hold back: Jacoby Jones, Kevin Walter, HOU D/ST, Malcolm Floyd (injury), Buster Davis (injury), Legedu Naanee (injury)
Sleepers: Darren Sproles, Joel Dreessen
Tally-ho! I thought the MNF game was a barn-burner, but this is fitting to be an all-out forest fire. It's disappointing that Antonio Gates is likely out with his toe injury, but it really makes no sense why all the sudden he is unable to play. His monster game last week was much appreciated by owners everywhere so this stings, especially in such a juicy match-up. Even though the Chargers are on the road, I think they've been slowly building some momentum after the Oakland loss and are primed for their first road victory, maybe. The lack of options for Rivers is certainly concerning, but the check-down machine of Darren Sproles could do many owners right. Matt Schaub will want redemption at home, but with the ankle concerns of Andre Johnson, there's a good chance the SD defense will shut him, Jacoby Jones and Owen Daniels down, making Arian Foster the best Texan option this week. The Texans are a good team, but the loss of DeMeco Ryans is considerable and it shows, making Ryan Matthews and Mike Tolbert good options also.
Certainly Start: Eli Manning, Ahmad Bradshaw, Hakeem Nicks, Steve Smith, NYG D/ST
Consider: Brandon Jacobs, Olindo Mare, Mike Williams, Marshawn Lynch, Justin Forsett, Lawrence Tynes, John Carlson
Hold back: SEA D/ST, Golden Tate, Matt Hasselbeck (injury), Kevin Boss
Sleepers: Deon Butler, Mario Manningham
I understand the Seahawks are one of the best home team's in the league, but the Giants appear to be one of the best road teams in the league. After losing to big brother Manning's Colts on SNF, Eli has led 'Jet Blue' on a two game road win-streak (@ DAL, @ HOU) in impressive fashion. The Seahawks were trampled last week in Oakland, and with the loss of DE Red Bryant for the year, Marshawn Lynch and Justin Forsett become considerably less attractive. Besides, Matt Hasselbeck is out, with Charlie Whitehurst in, and a rookie against the Giants defense doesn't inspire confidence, not for him, Mike Williams, Deon Butler, Golden Tate, John Carlson, or Olindo Mare, but if you must in certain places, you must. Otherwise, deploy all Giants at will and enjoy the reaping.
Certainly Start: Darren McFadden, Thomas Jones, Jamaal Charles, Michael Bush, Dwayne Bowe, Tony Moeaki
Consider: KC D/ST, OAK D/ST, Ryan Succop, Sebastian Janikowski, Darrius Heyward-Bey, Marcel Reese
Hold back: Zach Miller (injury), Louis Murphy (injury), Jason Campbell, Bruce Gradkowski, Dexter McCluster (injury), Chris Chambers
Sleepers: Terrance Copper
What's more shocking - the Raiders are .500-- or that they are actually playing for the AFC West lead, against the Chiefs? My chin is typinzi dtkhis. The Chiefs, on paper, are the better team, but it won't be the Kansas City offense that helps them to win in this one, unless Nnamdi Asomugha is out. It should be the tried and true league leaders Thomas Jones and Jamaal Charles that top this contests fantasy potential. Matching them across the line will be Darren McFadden and Michael Bush, although I find Bush less attractive considering he got by on garbage in last week's blow out. The Raiders are ailing a bit, with their BYE on the horizon, they could actually nail down a win-streak. Zach Miller is questionable and of course Nnamdi, so keep up on both of those by listening to our Week 9 Preview PODCAST TOMORROW 12/3 !
Certainly Start: Peyton Manning, Reggie Wayne, Pierre Garcon, Michael Vick, LeSean McCoy, Jeremy Maclin
Consider: DeSean Jackson (injury), Brent Celek, Mike Hart (injury), Donald Brown (injury), Javarris James, Adam Vinatieri, David Akers, Jacob Tamme
Hold back: Joseph Addai (injury), Austin Collie (injury), Anthony Gonzalez (injury), PHI D/ST, IND D/ST, Kevin Kolb
Sleepers: Jerome Harrison
It's the return of Michael Vick, in what should be a good day for him and LeSean McCoy against the mediocre Colts rush defense. Depending on how much clock the Eagles can use up will depend on how much production we see out of Reggie Wayne and Pierre Garcon, although, should the Colts get down at all, consider me geeked for what may come. A little birdy told me that Austin Collie could play this weekend, but the hand is a delicate thing and that's his lifeblood so only if you really want to measure up. The Indy backfield is murky as ever, but if Donald Brown is the starter, I still like Mike Hart. Javarris James takes the lead if neither can go, but do you really want to go there? I didn't think so, just stay away if you can as the Philadelphia defense is returning rested and was already stingy against the run before their BYE. This could be a nice game for DeSean Jackson to pass the torch to Jeremy Maclin in terms of the 'it' fantasy player. Maclin scores, Jackson boasts. I'll take the guy that scores.
Certainly Start: Aaron Rodgers, Greg Jennings, GB D/ST, Mason Crosby, Miles Austin, Dez Bryant
Consider: Marion Barber, Jason Witten, Brandon Jackson, James Jones, David Buehler, Jordy Nelson, Andrew Quarless, Donald Lee
Hold back: Jon Kitna, Felix Jones (injury), John Kuhn
Sleepers: Tashard Choice
All systems are go on Green Bay. The Cowboys have given up some big days to QB's recently, and Aaron Rodgers isn't just any QB. Greg Jennings, James Jones and Jordy Nelson could all explode for worthwhile days, so take your pick and run. Even Brandon Jackson is a worthy play considering the match-up's this week, and if you really must go into the TE pool here, I'd snag Donald Lee if he plays. Should Dallas play down at all, who am I kidding though, Miles Austin, Jason Witten and Dez Bryant fare to do well in the dumping grounds, and with Felix Jones possibly out, a return of Marion Barber could be in order. Green Bay will be itching to score some TD's after their FG frenzy last week, and at Lambeau, that's a tall order for Jon Kitna to compete with.
Certainly Start: PIT D/ST, Rashard Mendenhall, Terrell Owens, Chad OchoCinco, Ben Roethlisberger, Mike Wallace, Hines Ward, Carson Palmer, Mike Nugent, Jeff Reed
Consider: Cedric Benson, Jermaine Gresham, Heath Miller
Hold back: CIN D/ST
Sleepers: Jordan Shipley
It's not a good sign for the Steelers that they lost to the Saints on the road. They needed to win that game, and since they didn't, they will play this game with even more urgency, especially considering it's a road-division game against the team that swept them last season. Look, I'm not endorsing the Steelers for the win, I'm endorsing Rashard Mendenhall to get jiggy and Ben Roethlisberger to find Mike Wallace and Hines Ward often. Heath Miller doesn't thrill me, but if you're ailing, I get it. As for Cincinnati, they have been putting up numbers and staying in games, but there's just something missing. They don't have that spark that makes you think they are going to drive down the field and do what they need to do when they need to do it. Cedric Benson has been a huge failure this season, and other than some big yardage days for OchoCinco, the union of Terrell Owens and Carson Palmer seems to be this year's Tony Romo to Miles Austin. Jermaine Gresham is also a flyer TE if you're riding the donkey, but should you be ailing, Jordan Shipley looks like an above-average sleeper against the Steelers defense that leaves the hunting grounds open.
On a side note-
I will be representing for the Fantasy Geek tomorrow on The Sports Bartender live streaming on Justin.Tv presented by GeekWeekOnline.
So if you're just getting out of work, or hopefully happy hour, perhaps pre-gaming for the weekend, or just chillin at Starbucks, I'd appreciate your audience, tune in and check out some delicious sports banter for your fan-da-monious enjoyment.
Bomb Voyage.
The Major
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