[Hache Man]

Week 7 Rankings \
The Cardinals offense has survived the Super Bowl hangover. It has survived Kurt Warner's 38th birthday, Warner's hip surgery, and another offseason full of questions about Anquan Boldin's happiness.

The team's pass attack is a little different, but still effective. Warner still throws like crazy. He's tied for the league lead in attempts per game and is on pace for over 4,600 yards.

He just doesn't throw as deep, as Marcus Fitzgerald is happy to tell you. Warner has turned Marcus' bro into a possession receiver; Fitz hasn't had a play over 26 yards all year and is averaging only 10.3 yards per catch. His previous career low was 13.4, and that was as a rookie.

It's not just Fitzgerald Warner isn't connecting deep with. Warner is 19th in the league in plays over 20 yards, behind Mark Sanchez, Matthew Stafford, and Kyle Orton. (He has one more than "Captain Checkdown" Trent Edwards.) Warner has completed one play over 40 yards, tied for 25th in the league. Last year, Warner was in the top five in both explosive play categories.

Perhaps the hip surgery has eroded Warner's deep ball. The difference was obvious when watching him try to throw a hail mary from the fifty-yard line at the end of the first half against Seattle. Warner loaded up, but had to throw the ball without any arc to get over the goal line.

It's a testament to Warner's accuracy and smarts that he's still able to thrive. He's turned Steve Breaston into a legitimate every week fantasy option. (Breaston, Boldin, and Fitzgerald have similar yardage.) Warner has survived despite a running game that still remains among the league's worst by any measure – more on that in the notes.

After an uneven start to the season, the Cardinals passing attack is back. The lack of explosive plays should cost them eventually, but Warner also should have been washed up six seasons ago when Eli Manning passed him on the Giants depth chart. Warner's wild career was not built on logic. It was built on an ability to adapt.

Slideshow: Goal Line Stand

Week 7 Quarterbacks

Rank	Player Name	Opponent	Notes
1	Peyton Manning	at STL	-
2	Tom Brady	at TB
3	Drew Brees	at MIA	-
4	Philip Rivers	at KC	-
5	Matt Schaub	vs. SF	-
6	Aaron Rodgers	at CLE
7	Ben Roethlisberger	vs. MIN	-
8	Jay Cutler	at CIN	-
9	Matt Ryan	at DAL	-
10	Eli Manning	vs. ARZ
11	Kurt Warner	at NYG	-
12	Tony Romo	vs. ATL	-
13	Brett Favre	at PIT	-
14	Donovan McNabb	at WAS
15	Carson Palmer	vs. CHI	-
16	Matt Cassel	vs. SD	-
17	Chad Henne	vs. NO	-
18	Shaun Hill	at HOU	-
19	Josh Johnson	vs. NE	-
20	Jake Delhomme	vs. BUF	-
21	Marc Bulger	vs. IND	-
22	Jason Campbell	vs. PHI	-
23	Ryan Fitzpatrick	at CAR	-
24	Derek Anderson	vs. GB	-
25	Mark Sanchez	at OAK	-
26	JaMarcus Russell	vs. NYJ	-

QB Notes: Was Philadelphia's offensive line meltdown a one-game anomaly or a long-term problem for Donovan McNabb? Yes, McNabb missed some throws, mostly in the fourth quarter. But the line was so ridiculously bad the rest of the game, it was hard to put the blame on him. And it wasn't just left tackle Jason Peters' injury. Philly was just as bad up the middle and to the right side. Washington's defense isn't playing that poorly, so it will be a tough test. McNabb isn't an automatic fantasy start. … The Bucs give up more yards per pass play than any team, so Tom Brady's rejuvenation should last at least another week. … A co-worker benched Matt Schaub last week because he didn't like the matchup compared to his other option. Schaub is beyond matchups at this point, an every-week fantasy play in the same tier as Manning, Brees, Rodgers, and Brady. … Eli Manning often struggles at home, but Arizona's stout rush defense will make him have to throw to win.

Long term, the fact that Aaron Rodgers still had protection problems against Detroit is a concern. But it won't matter this week against Cleveland. … As Joe Flacco showed last week, you can throw on the Vikings if you are willing to take a hit. Ben Roethlisberger certainly is willing, and his receiver group is superior to Baltimore's. Expect a solid QB1 day. … As a diehard Tony Romo believer since the day he entered the league, it pains me to say I trust Matt Ryan much more as a fantasy option this week when they play each other, even with Atlanta thin in the secondary. I also trust the Falcons defense more as a whole. The ascension of Miles Austin will help Romo, but the Cowboys should still be a run-first team and they have a lot to prove in the passing game. … The Bengals defense is a neutral matchup. Play Jay Cutler as you normally would. … A decent pass-catching tight end would make Carson Palmer infinitely better. That's why the team reportedly went after Dallas' Martellus Bennett before the trading deadline, only to be denied.

Chad Henne gets his chance this week to prove his Monday Night Football performance against the Jets wasn't a fluke. I don't think it was. Henne will have ups and downs as a young quarterback and he's not an exciting fantasy option most weeks because the Dolphins will run a ball control offense led by the Wildcat. But this week is a game the Dolphins will need to throw to win, and you could do worse than Henne. His receivers will limit his ceiling this year, but he can make all the throws. … JaMarcus Russell's decent statistical day last week, wasn't a sign of hope. He made enough mistakes in the second half to lose; the Raiders defense just bailed him out. It's hard to imagine Chaz Schilens having much value with the way Russell is playing. … Matt Cassel is a fine bye week option if you need help against a suspect San Diego secondary. … The Cardinals are Saints-lite. They can pick on New York's struggles at safety by working the middle of the field too. Kurt Warner should be solid.

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Week 7 Running Backs

Rank	Player Name	Opponent	Notes
1	Frank Gore	at HOU	Probable(ankle)
2	DeAngelo Williams	vs. BUF	-
3	Adrian Peterson	at PIT	Probable(ankle)
4	Ronnie Brown	vs. NO	-
5	Michael Turner	at DAL	Probable(chest)
6	Steven Jackson	vs. IND	-
7	Brian Westbrook	at WAS	-
8	Cedric Benson	vs. CHI	-
9	Marion Barber	vs. ATL	Probable(thumb)
10	Steve Slaton	vs. SF	-
11	Matt Forte	at CIN	-
12	Ryan Grant	at CLE	-
13	LaDainian Tomlinson	at KC	-
14	Jonathan Stewart	vs. BUF	Probable(heel)
15	Pierre Thomas	at MIA	-
16	Marshawn Lynch	at CAR	-
17	Ahmad Bradshaw	vs. ARZ	Probable(ankle)
18	Thomas Jones	at OAK	-
19	Joseph Addai	at STL	-
20	Rashard Mendenhall	vs. MIN	Probable(knee)
21	Brandon Jacobs	vs. ARZ	-
22	Donald Brown	at STL	-
23	Darren Sproles	at KC	-
24	Fred Jackson	at CAR	-
25	Leon Washington	at OAK	-
26	Clinton Portis	vs. PHI	Probable(ankle)
27	Tim Hightower	at NYG	-
28	Larry Johnson	vs. SD	-
29	Laurence Maroney	at TB	Probable(thigh)
30	Tashard Choice	vs. ATL	-
31	Carnell Williams	vs. NE	-
32	Felix Jones	vs. ATL	Probable(knee)
33	Mike Bell	at MIA	-
34	Ricky Williams	vs. NO	-
35	Reggie Bush	at MIA	-
36	Jamal Lewis	vs. GB	Probable(hamstring)
37	Justin Fargas	vs. NYJ	-
38	Willie Parker	vs. MIN	Probable(toe)
39	Chris Wells	at NYG	Probable(hip)
40	Jerome Harrison	vs. GB	Questionable(flu)
41	Glen Coffee	at HOU	-
42	LeSean McCoy	at WAS	-
43	Chester Taylor	at PIT	-
44	Derrick Ward	vs. NE	-
45	Chris Brown	vs. SF	-
46	Michael Bush	vs. NYJ	-
47	Mewelde Moore	vs. MIN	-
48	Jamaal Charles	vs. SD	-
49	Kevin Faulk	at TB	-
50	Ladell Betts	vs. PHI	-
51	Brandon Jackson	at CLE	Probable(ankle)

RB Notes: Sometimes, you hear a coach say about a rookie: "The game isn't too big for him." No one is saying that about Beanie Wells. He fumbles, bobbles, and misses protections. The Cardinals are a passing offense, and they can't trust him, even when Tim Hightower is averaging 3.1 yards per carry. During the snaps Wells gets some room, the kid looks fearless. Defenses expect him to pound the ball up the middle, and he can take it outside, then punish a cornerback. But the mistakes are too frequent and too costly. … Hightower isn't exactly shutting the door on Wells. We heard a lot about his change of attitude this offseason, but he gets held up by defenders and pushed backwards too often. He's not a good short-yardage option, but he's a fine receiver and understands protections. For now, that's enough to cancel out Wells. I don't want to use either player against the Giants.

An encore performance would be nice, but that looked like the old Brian Westbrook last week. He's explosive through the hole, and the vision hasn't changed. Perhaps the long speed to outrun cornerbacks on the second level of the defense isn't quite the same, but the overall package is close to the real thing. The big difference is Westbrook's usage. LeSean McCoy came in on third downs occasionally and basically split carries with him throughout. This is a good idea for Philadelphia long-term, but it could make Westbrook's fantasy production more inconsistent. … Ahmad Bradshaw didn't play during New York's first three series last week. As exciting as he is, that outlines that he's still going to be a risky play.

The Raiders offense just stayed "on schedule" better with Justin Fargas at the helm. I have my doubts he can keep it going, but his effort will earn him enough snaps to make Michael Bush useless for the near future. … Jonathan Stewart is an excellent play this week because of Buffalo's rush defense and the chance that Carolina may be playing with a lead for once. Donald Brown and Joseph Addai is another backfield tandem that can both be used this week; Indianapolis should have mercy for the Rams and take the air out of the ball eventually. While we're at it, the Chargers duo of Tomlinson and Darren Sproles should have an up week against Kansas City. … With Marion Barber back it's probably best to avoid Tashard Choice and Felix Jones in a neutral matchup.

Note: Each Week, I tape a few segments for our Sunday night broadcast of SNF Extra. It's the Sunday night game in HD, with DVR controls, Mike Florio chatting, and a whole bunch of stuff you should check out at least once. You'll like it so much you'll become a fan of SNF Extra on this crazy facebook thing the kids are talking about.
Week 7 Wide Receivers

Rank	Player Name	Opponent	Notes
1	Randy Moss	at TB	Probable(shoulder)
2	Andre Johnson	vs. SF	-
3	Larry Fitzgerald	at NYG	-
4	Vincent Jackson	at KC	-
5	Reggie Wayne	at STL	-
6	Marques Colston	at MIA	-
7	Roddy White	at DAL	-
8	Chad Ochocinco	vs. CHI	-
9	Greg Jennings	at CLE	-
10	Wes Welker	at TB	Probable(knee)
11	Steve Smith	vs. ARZ	-
12	Hines Ward	vs. MIN	-
13	DeSean Jackson	at WAS	-
14	Santonio Holmes	vs. MIN	-
15	Donald Driver	at CLE	-
16	Dwayne Bowe	vs. SD	-
17	Steve Smith	vs. BUF	-
18	Steve Breaston	at NYG	Questionable(knee)
19	Kevin Walter	vs. SF	-
20	Miles Austin	vs. ATL	-
21	Roy Williams	vs. ATL	Probable(ribs)
22	Mohamed Massaquoi	vs. GB	-
23	Sidney Rice	at PIT	-
24	Devin Hester	at CIN	-
25	Braylon Edwards	at OAK	Probable(quadriceps)
26	Antonio Bryant	vs. NE	Probable(knee)
27	Mario Manningham	vs. ARZ	Probable(back)
28	Lance Moore	at MIA	-
29	Pierre Garcon	at STL	-
30	Bernard Berrian	at PIT	-
31	Hakeem Nicks	vs. ARZ	-
32	Santana Moss	vs. PHI	-
33	Ted Ginn Jr.	vs. NO	-
34	Lee Evans	at CAR	-
35	Percy Harvin	at PIT	Questionable(shoulder)
36	Johnny Knox	at CIN	-
37	Jeremy Maclin	at WAS	-
38	Earl Bennett	at CIN	-
39	Terrell Owens	at CAR	-
40	Devery Henderson	at MIA	-
41	Donnie Avery	vs. IND	Questionable(hip)
42	Michael Crabtree	at HOU	-
43	James Jones	at CLE	-
44	Austin Collie	at STL	-
45	Andre Caldwell	vs. CHI	-
46	Davone Bess	vs. NO	-
47	Isaac Bruce	at HOU	-
48	Patrick Crayton	vs. ATL	-
49	Mike Wallace	vs. MIN	-
50	Josh Morgan	at HOU	-
51	Bobby Wade	vs. SD	-
52	Mark Bradley	vs. SD	-

WR Notes: There isn't anyone better at making difficult catches with defenders nearby than Marques Colston. There may be equals, but just wanted to get that off my chest. … I'd play Miles Austin over Roy Williams already. He's a more explosive player. … Hakeem Nicks has done a lot of his damage in garbage time, but he has another gear that players of his size just shouldn't have. He's going to hurt Mario Manningham's value the rest of the way. The Giants are also working Domenik Hixon into the mix. The team is good for a few vertical strikes a game, but it will be hard to predict who will get them. … For now, Anquan Boldin is not on the rankings. If he starts, it's a concern that he won't finish the game. Boldin's presence would knock Steve Breaston down the rankings.

Last week's disappearance shouldn't change your opinion of Jeremy Maclin too much. He was targeted deep twice and was a few feet away from having a big day. He's not that polished on the shorter routes, though, so he'll be a boom or bust option. … Forget what we know about Sidney Rice and Bernard Berrian from before this season. Think about what Brett Favre knows about the two players. Rice has made tough grabs; Berrian has dropped easy ones. Favre likes to throw down the seams more than down the sideline, which also suits Rice's game. The Steelers are a lot easier to throw against than run, even with Adrian Peterson, so it should be a decent day for the Vikings.

Lance Moore won't have as many explosive weeks as last year, but I think it's fair to expect a lot of five-catch, 60-yard days. He'll be a decent PPR WR3 now that he's finally healthy. … Pittsburgh's starting wideouts have basically become must-starts except for in the toughest of matchups. Minnesota is not one of those matchups. … Dwayne Bowe improves every week and gets a plus matchup this week against the Chargers. … The squeaky wheel gets the grease theory should be at play with Steve Smith of the Panthers this week, but ultimately the Panthers will run to win against Buffalo. Jake Delhomme will certainly try to get Smith more involved, but they haven't shown any ability to convert big pass plays, and Buffalo does a good job preventing them. Really. … There is a huge drop-off in the wideout rankings after the top-20 or so. Someone like Braylon Edwards is boom or bust. Mohamed Massaquoi is dropping lots of passes, but he's a safer bet because the targets will be there. Antonio Bryant isn't a bad option because the Patriots will be throwing plenty. … Ryan Fitzpatrick won't help the Buffalo receivers. Maybe last week's game, though, reminded the coaching staff how much better of a player Lee Evans is than the 2009 Terrell Owens. … Chad Henne does make Ted Ginn better. He still won't be consistent, but you could do worse for a WR3 option this week.

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Week 7 Tight Ends

Rank	Player Name	Opponent	Notes
1	Antonio Gates	at KC	-
2	Dallas Clark	at STL	-
3	Jason Witten	vs. ATL	-
4	Owen Daniels	vs. SF	-
5	Tony Gonzalez	at DAL	-
6	Heath Miller	vs. MIN	-
7	Brent Celek	at WAS	-
8	Vernon Davis	at HOU	-
9	Kellen Winslow	vs. NE	-
10	Chris Cooley	vs. PHI	-
11	Greg Olsen	at CIN	-
12	Zach Miller	vs. NYJ	-
13	Jeremy Shockey	at MIA
14	Dustin Keller	at OAK	-
15	Visanthe Shiancoe	at PIT	-
16	Jermichael Finley	at CLE	-
17	Kevin Boss	vs. ARZ	-
18	Anthony Fasano	vs. NO	-
19	Ben Watson	at TB
20	Randy McMichael	vs. IND	-

TE Notes: The Vikings have given up more fantasy points to tight ends than any team, so Heath Miller's career year should continue this week. … Second on the worst teams against tight ends list is Philadelphia. All the fears that Chris Cooley would be stuck as a blocker last week were overblown. He performed his usual role once the coaching staff had a week to prepare for life without Chris Samuels. … The Patriots are one of the best teams preventing yards to tight ends because of the play of Brandon Merriweather and Brandon McGowan. This will be a tough matchup for Kellen Winslow. … It's fair to have lost patience with Dustin Keller by now, especially with so many excellent options at tight end. Greg Olsen and Zach Miller are showing expected signs of life, for instance, and still have trouble cracking the top ten.

Week 7 Team Defense

Rank	Player Name	Opponent	Notes
1	Eagles Def/Spec Team	at WAS	-
2	Jets Def/Spec Team	at OAK	-
3	Patriots Def/Spec Team	at TB	-
4	Colts Def/Spec Team	at STL	-
5	Packers Def/Spec Team	at CLE	-
6	Giants Def/Spec Team	vs. ARZ	-
7	Vikings Def/Spec Team	at PIT	-
8	Steelers Def/Spec Team	vs. MIN	-
9	Fortyniners Def/Spec Team	at HOU	-
10	Chargers Def/Spec Team	at KC	-
11	Bears Def/Spec Team	at CIN	-
12	Bengals Def/Spec Team	vs. CHI	-
13	Panthers Def/Spec Team	vs. BUF	-
14	Raiders Def/Spec Team	vs. NYJ	-
15	Cowboys Def/Spec Team	vs. ATL	-
16	Saints Def/Spec Team	at MIA	-
17	Falcons Def/Spec Team	at DAL	-
18	Cardinals Def/Spec Team	at NYG	-
19	Texans Def/Spec Team	vs. SF	-
20	Dolphins Def/Spec Team	vs. NO	-
21	Redskins Def/Spec Team	vs. PHI	-
22	Bills Def/Spec Team	at CAR	-
23	Chiefs Def/Spec Team	vs. SD	-
24	Browns Def/Spec Team	vs. GB	-
25	Buccaneers Def/Spec Team	vs. NE	-
26	Rams Def/Spec Team	vs. IND	-

Week 7 Kickers

Rank	Player Name	Opponent	Notes
1	Stephen Gostkowski	at TB	-
2	Lawrence Tynes	vs. ARZ	-
3	Mason Crosby	at CLE	-
4	Neil Rackers	at NYG	-
5	Jay Feely	at OAK	-
6	Ryan Longwell	at PIT	-
7	John Carney	at MIA	-
8	David Akers	at WAS	-
9	Nick Folk	vs. ATL	-
10	Robbie Gould	at CIN	-
11	Nate Kaeding	at KC	-
12	Matt Stover	at STL	-
13	Kris Brown	vs. SF	-
14	Joe Nedney	at HOU	-
15	John Kasay	vs. BUF	-
16	Jason Elam	at DAL	Probable(hamstring)
17	Ryan Succop	vs. SD	-
18	Jeff Reed	vs. MIN	-
19	Dan Carpenter	vs. NO	-
20	Shayne Graham	vs. CHI	-
21	Rian Lindell	at CAR	-
22	Sebastian Janikowski	vs. NYJ	-
23	Josh Brown	vs. IND	-
24	Phil Dawson	vs. GB	Sidelined(groin)
25	Shane Andrus	vs. NE	-
26	Shaun Suisham	vs. PHI	-

[Hache Man]

Value Meter: Colts get comfy atop Week 7 rankings


Here is Matt Pitzer's updated Value Meter for Week 7. Coming off a bye week, it's no surprise Indianapolis stars Peyton Manning, Reggie Wayne and Dallas Clark are all first at their respective positions since the undefeated Colts visit the winless St. Louis Rams.
Remember, Baltimore, Denver, Detroit, Jacksonville, Seattle and Tennessee have bye weeks.
Now that you know what Matt is thinking, draft a team in 15 minutes and play him and others in RapidDraft. You could win $50,000. Click here for the latest player notes and the inactives on game days. Also, if you have any last minute questions, Matt will chat in Fantasy Joe on Sunday 11:45 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. ET. Good luck.
* Check status
Quarterbacks

01.	Peyton Manning, Ind.	at St.L.
02.	Tom Brady, N.E.	at T.B.
03.	Drew Brees, N.O.	at Mia.
04.	Eli Manning, N.Y.-G	vs. Ari.
05.	Philip Rivers, S.D.	at K.C.
06.	Aaron Rodgers, G.B.	at Cle.
07.	Matt Ryan, Atl.	at Dal.
08.	Matt Schaub, Hou.	vs. S.F.
09.	Donovan McNabb, Phi.	at Was.
10.	Ben Roethlisberger, Pit.	vs. Min.
11.	Jay Cutler, Chi.	at Cin.
12.	Tony Romo, Dal.	vs. Atl.
13.	Kurt Warner, Ari.	at N.Y.-G
14.	Brett Favre, Min.	at Pit.
15.	Carson Palmer, Cin.	vs. Chi.
16.	Mark Sanchez, N.Y.-J	at Oak.
17.	Jake Delhomme, Car.	vs. Buf.
18.	Matt Cassel, K.C.	vs. S.D.
19.	Shaun Hill, S.F.	at Hou.
20.	Jason Campbell, Was.	vs. Phi.
21.	Derek Anderson, Cle.	vs. G.B.
22.	Chad Henne, Mia.	vs. N.O.
23.	Marc Bulger, St.L.	vs. Ind.
24.	*Ryan Fitzpatrick, Buf.	at Car.
25.	Josh Johnson, T.B.	vs. N.E.

Running backs

01.	Frank Gore, S.F.	at Hou.
02.	DeAngelo Williams, Car.	vs. Buf.
03.	Michael Turner, Atl.	at Dal.
04.	Ronnie Brown, Mia.	vs. N.O.
05.	LaDainian Tomlinson, S.D.	at K.C.
06.	Adrian Peterson, Min.	at Pit.
07.	Thomas Jones, N.Y.-J	at Oak.
08.	Matt Forte, Chi.	at Cin.
09.	Ryan Grant, G.B.	at Cle.
10.	Steven Jackson, St.L.	vs. Ind.
11.	Marion Barber, Dal.	vs. Atl.
12.	Cedric Benson, Cin.	vs. Chi.
13.	Marshawn Lynch, Buf.	at Car.
14.	Pierre Thomas, N.O.	at Mia.
15.	Brian Westbrook, Phi.	at Was.
16.	Steve Slaton, Hou.	vs. S.F.
17.	Larry Johnson, K.C.	vs. S.D.
18.	Clinton Portis, Was.	vs. Phi.
19.	Brandon Jacobs, N.Y.-G	vs. Ari.
20.	Joseph Addai, Ind.	at St.L.
21.	Jonathan Stewart, Car.	vs. Buf.
22.	Ahmad Bradshaw, N.Y.-G	vs. Ari.
23.	Ricky Williams, Mia.	vs. N.O.
24.	Rashard Mendenhall, Pit.	vs. Min.
25.	Laurence Maroney, N.E.	at T.B.
26.	Donald Brown, Ind.	at St.L.
27.	Tahsard Choice, Dal.	vs. Atl.
28.	Reggie Bush, N.O.	at Mia.
29.	Carnell Williams, T.B.	vs. N.E.
30.	Tim Hightower, Ari.	at N.Y.-G
31.	Mike Bell, N.O.	at Mia.
32.	Jamal Lewis, Cle.	vs. G.B.
33.	LeSean McCoy, Phi.	at Was.
34.	Leon Washington, N.Y.-J	at Oak.
35.	Fred Jackson, Buf.	at Car.
36.	Derrick Ward, T.B.	vs. N.E.
37.	Willie Parker, Pit.	vs. Min.
38.	Justin Fargas, Oak.	vs. N.Y.-J
39.	Kevin Faulk, N.E.	at T.B.
40.	Darren Sproles, S.D.	at K.C.
41.	Mewelde Moore, Pit.	vs. Min.
42.	Jerome Harrison, Cle.	vs. G.B.
43.	Michael Bush, Oak.	vs. N.Y.-J
44.	Chester Taylor, Min.	at Pit.
45.	Felix Jones, Dal.	vs. Atl.
46.	Chris Wells, Ari.	at N.Y.-G
47.	Chris Brown, Hou.	vs. S.F.
48.	Ladell Betts, Was.	vs. Phi.
49.	Ben-Jarvus Green-Ellis, N.E.	at T.B.
50.	Glen Coffee, S.F.	at Hou.

Wide receivers

01.	Reggie Wayne, Ind.	at St.L.
02.	Andre Johnson, Hou.	vs. S.F.
03.	Larry Fitzgerald, Ari.	at N.Y.-G
04.	Vincent Jackson, S.D.	at K.C.
05.	Randy Moss, N.E.	at T.B.
06.	Steve Smith, N.Y.-G	vs. Ari.
07.	Roddy White, Atl.	at Dal.
08.	Marques Colston, N.O.	at Mia.
09.	Hines Ward, Pit.	vs. Min.
10.	Donald Driver, G.B.	at Cle.
11.	Wes Welker, N.E.	at T.B.
12.	DeSean Jackson, Phi.	at Was.
13.	Steve Smith, Car.	vs. Buf.
14.	Greg Jennings, G.B.	at Cle.
15.	Dwayne Bowe, K.C.	vs. S.D.
16.	Chad Ochocinco, Cin.	vs. Chi.
17.	Braylon Edwards, N.Y.-J	at Oak.
18.	Pierre Garcon, Ind.	at St.L.
19.	Santonio Holmes, Pit.	vs. Min.
20.	Steve Breaston, Ari.	at N.Y.-G
21.	Roy Williams, Dal.	vs. Atl.
22.	*Jerricho Cotchery, N.Y.-J	at Oak.
23.	Austin Collie, Ind.	at St.L.
24.	Sidney Rice, Min.	at Pit.
25.	Terrell Owens, Buf.	at Car.
26.	Santana Moss, Was.	vs. Phi.
27.	Bernard Berrian, Min.	at Pit.
28.	Devin Hester, Chi.	at Cin.
29.	Josh Morgan, S.F.	at Hou.
30.	Miles Austin, Dal.	vs. Atl.
31.	Kevin Walter, Hou.	vs. S.F.
32.	Hakeem Nicks, N.Y.-G	vs. Ari.
33.	Johnny Knox, Chi.	at Cin.
34.	*Percy Harvin, Min.	at Pit.
35.	Jeremy Maclin, Phi.	at Was.
36.	Bobby Wade, K.C.	vs. S.D.
37.	Mohamed Massaquoi, Cle.	vs. G.B.
20.	*Anquan Boldin, Ari.	at N.Y.-G
38.	Antonio Bryant, T.B.	vs. N.E.
39.	Mike Wallace, Pit.	vs. Min.
40.	Keenan Burton, St.L.	vs. Ind.
41.	Davone Bess, Mia.	vs. N.O.
42.	Lee Evans, Buf.	at Car.
43.	*Mario Manningham, N.Y.-G	vs. Ari.
44.	Muhsin Muhammad, Car.	vs. Buf.
45.	Devery Henderson, N.O.	at Mia.
46.	*Chaz Schilens, Oak.	vs. N.Y.-J
47.	Earl Bennett, Chi.	at Cin.
48.	Andre Caldwell, Cin.	vs. Chi.
49.	Ted Ginn, Jr., Mia.	vs. N.O.
50.	Patrick Crayton, Dal.	vs. Atl.

Tight ends

01.	Dallas Clark, Ind.	at St.L.
02.	Tony Gonzalez, Atl.	at Dal.
03.	Antonio Gates, S.D.	at K.C.
04.	Jason Witten, Dal.	vs. Atl.
05.	Owen Daniels, Hou.	vs. S.F.
06.	Brent Celek, Phi.	at Was.
07.	Greg Olsen, Chi.	at Cin.
08.	Chris Cooley, Was.	vs. Phi.
09.	Vernon Davis, S.F.	at Hou.
10.	Jeremy Shockey, N.O.	at Mia.
11.	Heath Miller, Pit.	vs. Min.
12.	Visanthe Shiancoe, Min.	at Pit.
13.	Jermichael Finley, G.B.	at Cle.
14.	Kellen Winslow, T.B.	vs. N.E.
15.	Zach Miller, Oak.	vs. N.Y.-J
16.	Ben Watson, N.E.	at T.B.
17.	Dustin Keller, N.Y.-J	at Oak.
18.	Sean Ryan, K.C.	vs. S.D.
19.	Kevin Boss, N.Y.-G	vs. Ari.
20.	Steve Heiden, Cle.	vs. G.B.
21.	Daniel Fells, St.L.	vs. Ind.
22.	Anthony Fasano, Mia.	vs. N.O.
23.	Dante Rosario, Car.	vs. Buf.
24.	Daniel Coats, Cin.	vs. Chi.
25.	Randy McMichael, St.L.	vs. Ind.

Kickers

01.	Lawrence Tynes, N.Y.-G	vs. Ari.
02.	Stephen Gostkowski, N.E.	at T.B.
03.	John Carney, N.O.	at Mia.
04.	David Akers, Phi.	at Was.
05.	Mason Crosby, G.B.	at Cle.
06.	Nate Kaeding, S.D.	at K.C.
07.	Joe Nedney, S.F.	at Hou.
08.	Ryan Longwell, Min.	at Pit.
09.	Jay Feely, N.Y.-J	at Oak.
10.	Nick Folk, Dal.	vs. Atl.
11.	Jeff Reed, Pit.	vs. Min.
12.	Robbie Gould, Chi.	at Cin.
13.	Matt Stover, Ind.	at St.L.
14.	Jason Elam, Atl.	at Dal.
15.	Shayne Graham, Cin.	vs. Chi.
16.	Dan Carpenter, Mia.	vs. N.O.
17.	John Kasay, Car.	vs. Buf.
18.	Neil Rackers, Ari.	at N.Y.-G
19.	Kris Brown, Hou.	vs. S.F.
20.	Shaun Suisham, Was.	vs. Phi.
21.	*Phil Dawson, Cle.	vs. G.B.
22.	Rian Lindell, Buf.	at Car.
23.	Sebastian Janikowski, Oak.	vs. N.Y.-J
24.	Ryan Succop, K.C.	vs. S.D.
25.	Josh Brown, St.L.	vs. Ind.

Defenses

01.	New York Jets	at Oak.
02.	New England	at T.B.
03.	Philadelphia	at Was.
04.	Green Bay	at Cle.
05.	New York Giants	vs. Ari.
06.	Pittsburgh	vs. Min
07.	New Orleans	at Mia.
08.	Indianapolis	at St.L.
09.	San Francisco	at Hou.
10.	Cincinnati	vs. Chi.
11.	San Diego	at. K.C.
12.	Chicago	at Cin.
13.	Minnesota	at Pit.
14.	Carolina	vs. Buf
15.	Miami	vs. N.O.
16.	Dallas	vs. Atl.
17.	Arizona	at N.Y.-G
18.	Atlanta	at Dal.
19.	Buffalo	at Car.
20.	Houston	vs. S.F.
21.	Washington	at Phi.
22.	Kansas City	vs. S.D.
23.	Oakland	vs. N.Y.-J
24.	Cleveland	vs. G.B.
25.	Tampa Bay	vs. N.E.

[Hache Man]

Big Ben's Rare Air


Opportunity is a huge component of success in fantasy football. Ben Roethlisberger has long been an elite NFL quarterback, but his offensive system never allowed him to rack up the passing attempts needed to compete with the likes of Peyton Manning and Drew Brees in fantasy leagues. Through age 27, however, his passer rating, completion percentage, yards per attempt, touchdown percentage, and interception percentage all compare very favorably with Manning's early-career rates.

The habitually blue-collar, ground-it-out Steelers have never led the NFL in passing, but they've also never relied upon a no-huddle, fastbreak offense with a quarterback attempting at least 30 passes every game. Through six weeks, Roethlisberger leads the NFL in passing yards while nosing out Matt Schaub for the most fantasy points. "He's really good," coach Mike Tomlin said after Big Ben's 417-yard performance against the Browns in Week 6. "He's in total command of the offense. It's fun to watch at times." Cleveland coach Eric Mangini knew it was coming, too. "That's who this quarterback is. That's what this offense can do," said Mangini.

Only three quarterbacks in NFL history have finished with a completion percentage over 70 and a yards-per-attempt average over 9.0. Roethlisberger's current numbers are 72.5 and 9.12, which would put him in rare air with 1945 Sammy Baugh (70.3, 9.2), 1989 Joe Montana (70.2, 9.1), and 1994 Steve Young (70.3, 9.2). In other words, Big Ben and Peyton Manning (73.5, 9.1) currently have a thrust-and-parry battle going for the most efficient season of all time.

What should be music to fantasy leaguers is that the production is here to stay. As beat writer Ed Bouchette points out, the Steelers have no plans to alter to their style to fit the myth that passing teams can't succeed in cold weather. The up-tempo attack hasn't adversely affected the all-important Pittsburgh defense, either, as the team still enjoys a time of possession advantage of close to seven minutes.

Offensive coordinator Bruce Arians now has Big Ben calling his own plays from the no-huddle, riddling opposing defenses with pump fakes and crossing routes. "He has sat in this offense and handed the ball off 40 times a game and was able to win," Arians said. "It is a lot more fun when you are throwing it and having success."

Expect that fun to continue this week. Vikings Pro Bowl CB Antoine Winfield is "highly doubtful" with an ankle injury, and the secondary is now ranked 24th overall with the sixth-most touchdowns allowed. Start all members of the Steelers offense with confidence this week.

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According to offensive coordinator Jimmy Raye, Michael Crabtree will play roughly half the snaps this week against the Texans. Raye credits Michael Crabtree's surprising knowledge of "terminations, formations and pass routes" for his increased role. "He is a natural football player, playing wide receiver," Raye said. "He has an uncanny knack to conceptualize the picture quicker than most young guys." As Evan Silva points out in the best "matchups" column on the internet, Crabtree won't be a fantasy option in his debut. Unless the game turns into a track meet, the rookie will simply lose too many snaps to Josh Morgan.

Though Anquan Boldin (ankle) missed practice again Thursday, he went through a "rigorous" workout with an athletic trainer. Coach Ken Whisenhunt said Boldin was able to do a lot more than he did Wednesday, including some jogging. There's still hope that Boldin could return to practice Friday, which would be a major boost for his chances of playing against the Giants.

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Two-Minute Drill: Raiders coach Tom Cable will not be charged for his alleged assault on former assistant coach Randy Hanson. … Newly signed veteran Ahman Green is not expected to play this week. … The Cowboys reportedly turned down a "significant offer" from the Bengals for TE Martellus Bennett. … Brian Westbrook is begging the Eagles for more touches, believing he can make a bigger impact with more touches. … Kerry Collins has not been informed that he will be benched for Vince Young. … Saints backup RB Mike Bell is expected to be used as the goal-line back and "closer" going forward. … 49ers coach Mike Singeltary leveled criticism at QB Shaun Hill for the first time all season while saying that Alex Smith has "never been out of the picture." … Packers LB A.J. Hawk, now a situational player, will reportedly have to take a "major" pay cut to stay in Green Bay next season. ... Bucs LCB Aqib Talib was formally charged with a misdemeanor battery stemming an August arrest.

Red Zone: LaDainian Tomlinson missed Thursday's practice with an illness. … Greg Jennings is expected to practice Friday after missing Thursday's session when his hip flared up. … Though Jerricho Cotchery (hamstring) was held out of practice again, coach Rex Ryan believes he has a "real shot" to play this week. Ryan expressed no concern over Braylon Edwards' quadriceps. … Adrian Peterson expressed no concerns whatsoever with his ankle after being limited in Thursday's practice. … Percy Harvin (shoulder) was also limited and may be taken off of kickoff returns this week as a precaution. … Clinton Portis revealed that he's dealing with an ankle sprain, plantar fasciitis, a strained calf, and an MCL injury to his right leg. He's still expected to play Monday against the Eagles. … Michael Turner (chest) was limited again Thursday, but the Falcons have expressed no concern with the injury. … Sammy Morris (knee) missed practice again, leaving Laurence Maroney as the likely feature back against the Bucs. … Rashard Mendenhall (knee) was upgraded to full participation Thursday. … Trent Edwards (concussion) returned to the Bills' facility Thursday, but he's not close to being ready to practice. Ryan Fitzpatrick will start against the Panthers Sunday. … Rams WR Donnie Avery returned to a limited practice Thursday and appears likely to start against the Colts. … Ahmad Bradshaw (foot) sat out practice Thursday, but he's fully expected to play against the Cardinals. … Though Beanie Wells (hip) was limited again Thursday, the injury isn't expected to keep him out of Sunday's game. … Jonathan Stewart (heel) returned to a full practice Thursday, as expected. … Troy Polamalu (knee) missed a second straight practice, but he's expected to play against the Vikings. … Eagles MLB Omar Gaither needs surgery to repair a Lisfranc sprain and will miss the rest of the season. Newly acquired Will Witherspoon is expected to take over as his replacement. … Kevin Curtis is getting a second opinion on his knee, and he may not play the rest of the season.

[Hache Man]

Matchups: Not Crabtree's Time


Six teams have byes in each of the next three weeks, making it more difficult than ever to field a strong fantasy lineup. But a recent string of injuries to impact defenders Kris Jenkins, Antwan Odom, Lofa Tatupu, Antoine Winfield, Aaron Smith, D'Qwell Jackson, Brian Williams, and Pisa Tinoisamoa have improved matchups for some skill players you wouldn't normally consider. Keeping in mind ability, role, opportunity, and team strengths and weaknesses, let's break down Week 7 game by game.

1:00PM ET Games

Minnesota @ Pittsburgh

All-Pro CB Antoine Winfield's loss (foot sprain) is a decisive blow to a Vikings secondary that has struggled badly in the past few weeks. Now ranked 24th overall with the sixth-most TDs allowed and seventh-worst YPA against, Minnesota's pass defense won't slow fantasy's No. 3 passer, Ben Roethlisberger…The biggest beneficiary is NFL leading receiver Hines Ward, who Winfield would have shadowed all over the field. Instead, the Steelers' flanker will see a rotation of career liability Karl Paymah, special teamer Benny Sapp, and rookie Asher Allen, who makes his NFL debut.

Big Ben is now frequently calling his plays from the no-huddle. Last week, he ripped up Cleveland for 417 yards with a flurry of crossing routes, exploiting the Browns' weak tackling in the back end. Winfield is a terrific tackler. This is another area where his loss kills...Santonio Holmes will face off with Vikes RCB Cedric Griffin for most of the game. Holmes is often used as a clearing-route decoy, but Griffin doesn't have jets to stay with him. Expect 1-2 big plays...The Steelers will move the football, making new starter Rashard Mendenhall tough to sit. He'll have goal-line chances.

Heinz Field plays host to passing weather Sunday, with mid-50 temps expected, only a 10% chance of rain, and little wind. But Brett Favre isn't even a good QB2 bet. Favre has played just one non-domed game all year: Week 1 at Cleveland, throwing for a season-low 110 yards and one score. Pittsburgh is already tough to throw against (NFL's sixth-lowest YPA allowed)...Sidney Rice has long had star-caliber talent, but won't come close to repeating his Week 6 175-yard career game against Steelers LCB Ike Taylor. Taylor's strength is defending bigger wideouts.

Adrian Peterson is on pace to lead the NFL in rushing again and can't be benched, but it's hard to love him here. While Pittsburgh's loss of LE Aaron Smith boosts A.P.'s matchup slightly, the Vikes may be forced into a lot of "catch up." Chester Taylor plays in all passing situations...Percy Harvin's shoulder injury is recurring. He isn't an option until he shows he's healthy...The rest of the Vikes' passing game is best left avoided. Visanthe Shiancoe will be on the line helping LT Bryant McKinnie block James Harrison, while aggressive Steelers RCB William Gay covers Bernard Berrian.

San Francisco @ Houston

Matt Schaub is fantasy's top QB and has a great chance to stay there because nine of his last 10 games will be played in favorable weather. Seven are in domes, and he has two fantasy playoff matchups on the road against Florida teams...The 49ers are stout against the run (No. 7 overall, only 3.3 YPC against), but can be beaten by the pass as Matt Ryan showed in Week 5 (329 yards, three all-purpose TDs). LCB Nate Clements, who's been called out by the San Francisco media for underperforming, will see Andre Johnson in primary coverage Sunday.

Steve Slaton will struggle on the ground again, but Houston's new pass-heavy system boosts his yardage potential and PPR value considerably. While he's deservedly losing carries to Chris Brown, Slaton has 12 grabs for 161 yards and a TD (WR1 numbers) in his last two games. Any rushing stats are a bonus...Keep Owen Daniels going with 49ers SS Michael Lewis (concussion) likely to sit out and be replaced by Mark Roman, who was benched this offseason. Roman loves to bite on play-action...Kevin Walter remains a fourth option on offense and a weekly fantasy risk.

After a woeful start, the Texans' run defense has been terrific for three games, holding starting RBs to a putrid average of 20 yards per week. Much of the newfound success is thanks to strong safety Bernard Pollard and strong-side linebacker Brian Cushing. Pollard, though, has the flu and Houston's smallish front four doesn't match up well with the Niners' mauling front five, which welcomes 6'6/325-pound right tackle Tony Pashos to the starting lineup. Frank Gore is over his ankle injury and an RB1 against the team allowing the most rushing scores (10) in the league.

Michael Crabtree isn't a fantasy option in his debut. He will start, but Josh Morgan may play more snaps because of his role in one- and three-receiver sets. Crabtree's only hope is that this becomes a pass-happy affair if Houston jumps out to an early lead -- exactly what Mike Singletary and Jimmy Raye will game plan against...While Texans RCB Dunta Robinson covers the Crabtree-Morgan split end rotation, LCB Jacques Reeves will likely draw Isaac Bruce. Reeves, now recovered from his training camp injury, was Houston's top corner in 2008...Vernon Davis is an every-week starter.

San Diego @ Kansas City

LaDainian Tomlinson showed improved inside quickness in last Monday night's loss to Denver, but coach Norv Turner's poor red-zone play calling cost him at least one goal-line touchdown, and San Diego's front five struggled against a no-name Broncos line. Still, Tomlinson has some juice left in his legs, which bodes well against a Chiefs team that served up Clinton Portis' first 100-yard rushing game since November 2008 in Week 6, then traded run-stopping rotational NT Tank Tyler before Tuesday's deadline. The old LT isn't coming back, but he is a fine RB2 play this Sunday.

Lacking in foot speed, the Chiefs' secondary is highly susceptible to vertical receivers like Vincent Jackson. V-Jax averaged six grabs for 87 yards with one TD in their two 2008 meetings....Chris Chambers is still the Bolts' starting split end, but Malcom Floyd is rightfully cutting into his snaps heavily. Until one assumes the job full time, however, neither is a worthwhile fantasy bet...There is a 40 percent chance of rain at Arrowhead Stadium, but mid-50s temperatures and very mild winds won't affect the passing game on either side. Play red-hot Philip Rivers every single week.

Look for Dwayne Bowe to go against Chargers RCB Antonio Cromartie for the majority of Sunday. Cromartie, speedy but soft, can handle undersized wideouts like Eddie Royal (zero catches on five targets in their Week 6 matchup), but is severely stretched when asked to cover physical threats like Bowe and Brandon Marshall. Bowe has scored a TD in three of the four games he's been healthy for this season...Bobby Wade is listed as the Chiefs' starting flanker, but rotates evenly with Mark Bradley. Don't expect value to emerge at this position soon.

Larry Johnson is still touchdown-less, but his matchup should appeal to owners needing bye-week starters. Coming off his best rushing game of 2009 (83 yards/23 carries), L.J. faces a Chargers defense ranked 27th against the run with over one TD allowed per week. It's now or never...Matt Cassel is a strong buy-low target, especially in two-QB leagues. He quietly has a solid 7:2 TD to INT ratio and plays a host of weak defenses in the season's second half. After San Diego (10th most YPA allowed, 12th most passing TDs) it's on to a bye, then the Jags (30th against the pass).



Green Bay @ Cleveland

The Packers' run defense is a strength. Their No. 16 rank is not indicative of the unit's success because opponents continue to test the front seven (unsuccessfully). Just six teams give up less yards per carry and only two have allowed fewer rushing TDs. Jamal Lewis, coming off an 11-carry, 21-yard game, will be running in place for the second straight week...The Browns are using more Wildcat with Joshua Cribbs at QB, so Jerome Harrison's role has diminished into a little-used "change of pace." He saw five touches last week, is battling the flu, and isn't remotely a fantasy option.

Similar to Oakland's, the Browns' passing game has only one member ever worth consideration in fantasy. It's Zach Miller for the Raiders and Mohamed Massaquoi for Cleveland. Massaquoi, who plays split end, will be covered mostly by Packers RCB Al Harris with safety help from FS Nick Collins. Also considering the moderate forecast for Browns Stadium (temps in the 50s, 20% chance of rain, mild winds), this is a favorable enough matchup to use Massaquoi as a WR3.

Greg Jennings' hip injury isn't expected to keep him out, but be sure to check his status Sunday morning. His matchup is tasty against a Browns team serving up the second most big pass plays (24 of 20+ yards) in the league. Jennings has started slow, but is averaging a career-best 17.9 YPC and will face burnable Browns RCB Brandon McDonald for the bulk of the game...Donald Driver continues to overcome age, averaging 79 receiving yards on five catches per week. He'll get the rolled coverages Jennings normally sees soon enough, however, and is a low-upside play.

Aaron Rodgers leads the NFL in sacks taken. His protection is still a concern, but overachieving rookie left tackle T.J. Lang held his own after replacing Chad Clifton (ankle) last Sunday. That's good news for A-Rodge against a Browns team that gets disruptive ROLB Kamerion Wimbley back from an illness...We know by now that Ryan Grant isn't a "special" back, but he's a borderline RB1 in this matchup. Cleveland is 30th against the run, allows 4.9 YPC (third worst) to opposing ball carriers, and has surrendered nine rushing scores (second most in the league).

Indianapolis @ St. Louis

St. Louis lost its most athletic tackler when it sent Will Witherspoon to Philadelphia at Tuesday's trade deadline. The move improves Joseph Addai and Donald Brown's matchups, as the Rams will now insert 32-year-old journeyman Paris Lenon at weak-side linebacker with 2008 seventh-round pick Larry Grant at "WILL." This is after Maurice Jones-Drew gutted the Rams for 178 total yards and three TDs last week. Consider Addai an RB2 and Brown a high-upside FLEX.

Anthony Gonzalez (knee) will sit again, giving Pierre Garcon his fifth straight start. The Rams' secondary is banged up with top CB Ronald Bartell coming off a concussion, nickel back Justin King nursing a groin pull, and SS James Butler perhaps back from a knee injury. Peyton Manning could shred the unit in Tom Brady-Titans like fashion at the Edwards Jones Dome. Garcon is a respectable WR3 play, while sure-handed rookie slot man Austin Collie is a legitimate top-25 receiver option. There's next to no chance St. Louis slows down Dallas Clark or Reggie Wayne.

Marc Bulger showed improvement in his last two appearances, completing 70.7% of his passes with a solid 7.34 YPA. It won't continue against a Colts secondary that gets back shutdown LCB Kelvin Hayden from a hamstring injury, may return SS Bob Sanders (knee), and has allowed an NFL-low two passing TDs...The Rams' acquisition of Brandon Gibson in the Witherspoon deal was a deserved and direct indictment of unproductive No. 2 receiver Keenan Burton. Burton may not be long for the league...Rams TEs Randy McMichael and Daniel Fells are now rotating evenly.

Donnie Avery's matchup was highly favorable last week, but he went down with a hip injury after catching an early TD. He's battled an assortment of ailments since being the top receiver drafted in '08, and is emerging with an injury-prone label. He's questionable for Week 7 and a weak play at less than full strength...The Colts claim they waived NT Ed Johnson for performance and failing to make his prescribed weight. Either way, the loss can't hurt Steven Jackson's matchup. Johnson started each of Indy's first five games, helping them rank a relatively sturdy 14th against the run.

New England vs. Tampa Bay (in London)

Wembley Stadium got a reactionary reputation for low scoring and bad weather when the Giants squeaked by the Fins 13-10 in 2007. The notion was nixed in 2008, with New Orleans and San Diego combining for 77 points. Don't expect a baseball score in this one, as the forecast is mostly fair (high 50s, 20% chance of showers) save for 18MPH winds. Of course, not even a snowstorm can stop the Patriots' offense. Play Tom Brady, Randy Moss, and Wes Welker against a Bucs defense allowing the biggest YPA (8.5) in the league and the third most passing touchdowns (13).

New England will also be successful on the ground. The Bucs already rank 31st against the run, and NT Chris Hovan is battling an ankle injury. The Gaines Adams trade moves Greg White, or "Stylez G.," into the lineup at weak-side end. White is a poor run defender. With Sammy Morris (knee) and Fred Taylor (ankle) out, Laurence Maroney will start. Risk-taking owners can also give BenJarvus Green-Ellis a long look. He's the Patriots' best short-yardage/goal-line back left and could play extensively if 1) Maroney struggles early, or 2) the Pats jump out to a big lead (likely).

Predicting that a team will have to play "catch up" is always a gamble, but the Bucs simply can't keep up with the Pats' offense. If New England dominates time of possession, though, it won't matter. Every Bucs skill player is a risk, including Kellen Winslow. Pats FS Brandon McGowan has routinely shut down tight ends since entering the lineup early this year. Winslow is more athletic than any TE McGowan has faced, but K2 remains boom or bust...Antonio Bryant's fantasy production has fallen each week since Josh Johnson took over at QB. Keep him benched.

The Patriots have allowed one rushing TD all year, and the prospect of New England getting ahead early or dominating the possession battle reflects poorly on Carnell Williams' Week 7 outlook. Cadillac is playing well (4.3 YPC, on pace for career highs in catches and touchdowns) but he won't be usable for another five weeks. After this one, the Bucs play Green Bay (previously discussed), Miami (third in run defense), and New Orleans (fifth vs. run) before visiting Atlanta.



4:05PM ET Games

Buffalo @ Carolina

Bills DT Kyle Williams (shoulder) is out, upgrading a beautiful matchup for DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart. One of the few members of Buffalo's front seven that has played well, Williams was tied for second on the team in tackles. Run-stopping S Donte Whitner (ankle) also appears doubtful. Williams and Stewart are both must-starts against a Bills defense that already ranked dead last against the run. Thomas Jones gutted them for a Jets record 208 yards with Leon Washington pouring on 145 total yards in Week 6. Both members of "Double Trouble" can get theirs.

Question of the week: Will Steve Smith get back on track? Very likely, especially since the Bills will have to sell out with 8-9 defenders in the box Sunday. More loading up to stop the run will lead to fewer double teams over the top. Expect CB Terrence McGee to shadow Smith all over the field in man-to-man coverage. McGee is a good all-around corner, but Smith can beat any DB in the league one on one, and the conditions for passing will be very favorable (65-70 degree temps, next to no wind or chance of precipitation)...Still, continue to avoid Jake Delhomme.

Not that he was playing well, but Trent Edwards' (concussion) loss will crush the Bills' offense. Noodle-armed backup Ryan Fitzpatrick is easy to game plan against because he can't beat anyone vertically. Terrell Owens will remain a non-factor against Panthers LCB Chris Gamble, while Buffalo's tight ends are all banged up...Lee Evans is a low-upside WR3 option, but at least showed rapport with Fitzpatrick last week (4-68-1). T.O. had just 13 yards. Evans is only the 40th fantasy receiver overall, but has an easier matchup against Panthers RCB Richard Marshall.

Marshawn Lynch also takes a hit with Fitz under center. Lynch's workload will rise with Fred Jackson weaned off tailback duty and taking on more special teams work, and a matchup with Carolina seems favorable. However, the Panthers will bring SS Chris Harris down around the line of scrimmage all day, and OLBs Thomas Davis and Na'il Diggs will be able to "cheat" rather than drop into coverage. While it would be irresponsible to recommend benching Lynch against the NFL's No. 29 run defense, Stewart on Carolina's side has a higher Week 7 "ceiling."

NY Jets @ Oakland

All-Pro NT Kris Jenkins' ACL tear significantly weakens the Jets' front seven, forcing undersized 2007 undrafted free agent Mike DeVito into the lineup at end, where he'll replace new nose man Sione Pouha. But this isn't suddenly a tasty matchup for Oakland's running game. The smart money is on Rex Ryan out-scheming Tom Cable, who indicated this week that he'll turn to Justin Fargas at lead back with Darren McFadden (knee) out. The box will be stacked for Fargas, who isn't talented enough to overcome his sub-par teammates and depleted offensive line.

Don't be surprised if Darrelle Revis locks onto Raiders TE Zach Miller. The Broncos used top CB Champ Bailey on Antonio Gates often in Week 6, and Revis shadowing either of Oakland's unproductive wideouts would be wasteful. Jets coach Rex Ryan also shares a bond with Denver defensive boss Mike Nolan. Both are former Ravens defensive coordinators...JaMarcus Russell showed slightly improved touch last week in a fluky win over Philadelphia, but don't think he'll suddenly come around. His quarterback rating when throwing to wide receivers is 18.0.

As mentioned before, I'm chalking up Oakland's Week 6 win as a fluke. The Raiders shocked the Birds with blitzing (Al Davis teams never blitz) and ran successfully while lighting up linebacker Jeremiah Trotter in coverage. The Jets will pound it down Oakland's throat with Thomas Jones and Leon Washington, both red hot after dropping an amazing 370 total yards on Buffalo. Jones is a very strong RB2, while Washington is an ideal FLEX in any format...Dustin Keller's production is way down, and he's a weak fantasy bet against the improved Raiders safeties.

Mark Sanchez hasn't had a truly good game since Week 1 and is even off the QB2 radar, but he should have enough success against Oakland's No. 16 pass defense to support a big day for Braylon Edwards. The Raiders' strict use of Nnamdi Asomugha on the defensive right makes it easy for opponents to simply put their top wideout on the other side. With Jerricho Cotchery (hamstring) out, Edwards has been playing on the right side of the formation anyway. He's a strong WR2 in favorable conditions (70-degree temps, mild wind, little chance of rain).

4:15PM ET Games

Atlanta @ Dallas

Miles Austin's promotion onto the first team not only magnifies his fantasy outlook, it helps the rest of Dallas' skill players. Ex-starter Patrick Crayton's drops and inability to separate made it easy for defenses to blitz Tony Romo while double teaming Roy Williams. Atlanta's loss of LCB Brian Williams (torn ACL) also drastically improves Austin's Week 7 matchup. With Chris Houston assigned to Williams, Austin will primarily square off with former NFL Europe cornerback Brent Grimes. Austin is faster, and has a considerable size advantage (6'3/215 to Grimes' 5'10/185).

Playing in Jerry Jones' dome is a plus for both sides' passing games (which, in turn, is also good for both passing games). Williams, Romo, and Jason Witten are quality plays against a Falcons secondary that not only introduces Grimes as a starter, but breaks in Chevis Jackson at nickel back. Back-end communication issues are likely...Atlanta stifled Matt Forte in Week 6, but both Tashard Choice and Marion Barber are more explosive. Barber had a bye to rest his quads and should be near full strength. Expect a 60:40 timeshare in favor of MB3, with Felix Jones returning kicks.

The Falcons use Tony Gonzalez as a matchup weapon. In Week 6, he saw 22 snaps at wideout, four at H-back, and 25 as an in-line tight end. He's fantasy's No. 8 overall TE and a terrific play in what should be a high-scoring game. It doesn't hurt that Cowboys SS Gerald Sensabaugh will play with a cast on his hand...Ryan is an obvious top-five QB1 and Roddy White a top-15 WR playing indoors against the Cowboys' No. 26 pass defense. Dallas' secondary isn't really that bad, but doesn't generate enough pressure (two sacks per game). That's fine by Ryan, who hasn't been sacked in four weeks.

The Cowboys' front seven is among the healthiest in the league, but Michael Turner is on pace for 20 rushing TDs, with six in his last four games. The Falcons certainly will make a concerted effort to get Turner more carries after he saw just 13 last week...Michael Jenkins continues to be Turner's best friend as a running-game wideout. The unselfish receiver averages just 40.4 receiving yards per week while sacrificing himself as a downfield blocker.

Chicago @ Cincinnati

The year-ending loss of RE Antwan Odom (Achilles) is an uppercut to the chin of a Cincy defense that opened 2009 appearing much improved. The NFL sacks leader with eight entering Week 6, Odom will be replaced by talented but raw rookie Michael Johnson, who has just 11 tackles and no sacks to this point as the Bengals' oft-used third end. He'll be far easier for Bears LT Orlando Pace to block than Odom would've been...Jay Cutler has at least two touchdowns in each of his last four games and is an obvious must-start against the Bengals' 28th-ranked pass defense.

Johnny Knox has found the end zone in every game since Week 1, but that pace is unsustainable and his yardage totals are inconsistent due to a rotation with Earl Bennett. Greg Olsen and Devin Hester, who will mostly match up with Bengals RCB Johnathan Joseph, are likely to be 1-2 on the Bears in receiving...Matt Forte is just the No. 29 fantasy back so far, but at least gets the ball 21 times a game. A pass-first approach from Chicago is likely because Cincinnati is more beatable through the air, but Forte is very strong in the receiving game. He can't possibly be benched.

There won't be a more motivated player in the league Sunday than Cedric Benson. Bears GM Jerry Angelo was right to cut Ced-Ben in June of 2008 considering his poor commitment, production, and string of arrests, but Benson carries a grudge. Coming off a 44-yard, one-TD effort against an improving Texans defense, Benson is at worst a mid-level RB2 versus a Bears club that ranks sixth against the run but surrenders one rushing score per game...Rookie Bernard Scott has seen just one carry since his 41-yard Week 4 and is not an emerging threat to Benson's workload.

Paul Brown Stadium presents another favorable passing setup. There's no chance of rain, little wind expected, and temps will be in the 60s. Still, the Bengals will feed Benson the rock against his old team, limiting Carson Palmer's upside. It's hard to expect more than 28-32 throws against a Bears defense barely surrendering over one passing TD per game and allowing 6.4 YPA (ninth best average)...That shouldn't stop owners from starting Chad Ochocinco, the No. 7 overall fantasy WR. He'll see a lot of Bears RCB Zackary Bowman, who's been burned all season.



New Orleans @ Miami

The Saints used an impressive 39:30 run-to-pass ratio in last week's drubbing of the Giants, but figure to go pass heavy at Miami. The Fins are third against the run and 18th against the pass, while allowing the second highest YPA in the league. Drew Brees is poised for another big game against the team that signed Daunte Culpepper over him in the 2006 offseason. Only a 30% chance of rain and temps in the 80s are in the forecast for LandShark Stadium...Marques Colston will likely see a ton of rookie RCB Sean Smith in coverage and is fantasy's No. 8 overall receiver.

Lance Moore got it together with his first game over 38 yards in Week 6, but it's hard to suddenly consider him reliable. With so many options, the Saints are almost forced to weed one receiver out of the box score each game. It was Devery Henderson last week. Who's to say it won't be Moore this week?...Pierre Thomas got his fair share of red-zone carries against New York, but didn't execute. Mike Bell did and has the "hot hand" in short yardage. Expect Sean Payton to ride Bell in scoring situations going forward as Reggie Bush and Thomas are featured between the 20s.

New Orleans is fifth in run defense, but the likely absence of SLB Scott Fujita (calf) will sting. At 6'5/250, he's easily the club's biggest linebacker and will be replaced by 6'0/233-pound college free agent JoLonn Dunbar. The Dolphins love running to the strong side in the Wildcat. Expect success for Miami's No. 1-ranked ground attack...The risk is that New Orleans jumps out to an early lead, but that wouldn't hurt Ronnie Brown. Highly effective in the passing game, Brown figures to take over as the Fins' full-time "hurry-up" back following Patrick Cobbs' ACL tear.

The Saints remain stout against the pass, making big plays (NFL-high 11 picks) while allowing the fourth-fewest yards per throw. It's not a recipe for Chad Henne to have success. Henne will likely dump off to Davone Bess, his backs, and Anthony Fasano rather than take downfield shots to Ted Ginn Jr., who will mostly be covered by RCB Tracy Porter with Saints FS Darren Sharper in "help" coverage...No Dolphins wideout is recommended this week, though Bess will be a candidate for 6-8 catches should Miami fall behind. Greg Camarillo, the club's designated blocking wideout, is unlikely to play often if this turns into a shootout.

Sunday Night Football

Arizona @ NY Giants


** Edited for changed weather forecast

New York will be out for blood after its Week 6 blowout loss. Giants defensive boss Bill Sheridan scaled back his blitzing, used "off" coverage (cushions), and paid for it at New Orleans. Arizona employs a similarly pass-heavy offense, but doesn't go downfield as often as the Saints. Kurt Warner will be hurried all night. Slow-legged Cardinals RT Levi Brown is no match for Giants LE Justin Tuck's freakish athleticism, and Jints RE Osi Umenyiora has a bone to pick after not even registering a hurry last Sunday. He'll square off with Cards LT Mike Gandy in another mismatch.

Larry Fitzgerald remains a must-play. The Cards use him just like the Saints do Marques Colston, who dropped 8-166-1 on the Jints last week...Anquan Boldin (ankle) is questionable and a risk if he's active. Look for Steve Breaston to play more downs. Breaston has been hot since missing Week 1 and is a top-20 WR option no matter Boldin's game-day status...Tim Hightower faces a tough Giants run defense and is a poor fantasy bet, even with Beanie Wells battling a hip injury. Arizona will struggle to move the ball, and Hightower averages 3.1 YPC. He doesn't make anyone miss.

**Light winds, temperatures in the 60s, and no chance of precipitation are in the Meadowlands forecast. Brandon Jacobs and Ahmad Bradshaw are worthwhile RB2s, even against a Cards defense that ranks No. 1 against the run. The Giants will not struggle to move the football...Still, Arizona is 31st against the pass and Eli Manning is the ninth-best fantasy QB in the league. With Hakeem Nicks coming on and both Mario Manningham and Steve Smith continuing to play at a high level, Eli should be in lineups playing at home.

Manningham, whose back/ribs issue won't affect his status, and Nicks remain in a rotation that makes them hard to confidently recommend in a given week. Nicks exploded for 114 yards and a TD in Week 6, at least partially because Manningham's snaps were down due to the injury. Still, consider Smith a WR2 and both Mario and Nicks WR3 options. The Giants use plenty of three-wideout sets and this matchup is favorable...Kevin Boss returned from his high ankle sprain in Week 6 to register 18 yards. He hasn't topped 41 since the opener.

Monday Night Football

Philadelphia @ Washington

Now several weeks removed from his ankle injury, Brian Westbrook's workload is set to increase. It's deserved, as Westbrook is averaging 5.71 yards per touch to LeSean McCoy's 4.47. McCoy is a very good "1" portion of the likely "2-1" committee and will someday be the Eagles' every-down back, but isn't a fantasy option here. Westbrook's quicks will cause fits for the Skins' heavyweight front seven, which starts aging DLs Phillip Daniels and Cornelius Griffin.

After a fluky, nightmarish Week 6 loss to Oakland, Philadelphia's offense is likely to get back on track. The Skins rank third in the league in pass defense, but RCB DeAngelo Hall (who will likely be on Jeremy Maclin for most of Sunday) is burnable and the weather at FedEx Field (temps in the 60s, 0% chance of rain, only 10MPH winds) won't hinder passing. Get Donovan McNabb, Brent Celek, Maclin, and DeSean Jackson rolling against the intradivision Redskins.

Washington welcomes new playcaller Sherm Lewis back to the league after a five-year layoff. He has very little knowledge of the Skins' personnel after two weeks with the franchise. The idea of Lewis suddenly playing a major role in game planning and decision making is questionable to say the least. Don't expect more than 10 points from Washington on Sunday...Philadelphia's blitzes will return after they were surprisingly put on the backburner last week against Oakland. Skins replacement tackles Stephon Heyer and Mike Williams will be confused.
All Redskins skill players are major risks. Santana Moss will likely struggle to get open downfield as Washington's protection collapses. Clinton Portis has no burst, and Philadelphia's defense will improve all around with newly acquired Will Witherspoon at middle linebacker...Chris Cooley owners can lean on the fact that Green Bay's tight ends were highly productive when Lewis was the Packers' offensive coordinator from 1992-1999. He coached the likes of five-time Pro Bowler Keith Jackson and three-time Pro Bowler Mark Chmura

[Hache Man]

Five players that may save your fantasy football season


Let's be realistic – about half of all teams have a losing season and by Week 7 there are more than a few fantasy teams looking at sitting out the league championship. The good news is there is still time to save your season but you'll need some luck (which has not been with you so far) and a few different players than whatever you have been starting.
Below are five suggestions of players to acquire via a trade who should have good games over the next three weeks and yet are not so expensive that you have no chance to acquire them. You'll need to use your own wisdom as to whom you can part with from your team but it is Week 7 and if you are 3-4 or worse, you have to try something different.




Donald Driver, Green Bay: The old man from the Packers has been rejuvenated this year and he'll cost you more than any recent year. But he has scored twice this year and been around 95 yards or better in three of the last four games. This week he faces the weak Browns in Cleveland and in Week 9 he goes to Tampa Bay where everyone has a huge game. Even Week eight against the visiting Vikings should be a decent showing.

Devin Hester, Chicago: His team mate Johnny Knox is also interesting but Hester is the more sure thing on this Bears team that not only needs to pass each week, it can pass with big results thanks to Jay Cutler. Hester is always the primary wideout in challenging matchups and with games in Cincinnati and then hosting the Browns and Cardinals should roll up nice fantasy points when you need them most – now.


Austin Collie, Indianapolis: Obviously Reggie Wayne would be optimal but might also cost your entire roster to obtain. But Collie has been on fire in the last two weeks with a total of 14 catches for 162 yards and three scores and more importantly those came against weaker secondaries of the Seahawks and Titans. The Colts schedule remains a cakewalk for the next three weeks with matchups against in St. Louis and then hosting the 49ers and Texans.

Joseph Addai, Indianapolis: For the same reason that Collie looks advantageous for the next three games, Addai should have some nice fantasy points as well. He remains the primary back over Donald Brown and Addai acts as a receiver as well with 17 catches for 103 yards over just the last two games. He won't trade for much since most believe Donald Brown will eventually take a greater share but for the next three games, the outlook for Addai is very bright.

LaDainian Tomlinson, San Diego: As amazing as this may seem, Tomlinson has suffered tremendously in perception with an injury-marred season that has only seen him play two healthy games – once in Pittsburgh where all running backs go to fail and last Monday against the Broncos defense when he still had 100 total yards. But Tomlinson catches a break with his schedule now playing in Kansas City and then at home against the Raiders. Week nine in New York against the Giants won't be much fun but if he performs well enough for two weeks you could trade him back out.
If you are standing at 3-4 or worse in your league, you should not give up but instead need to shrink your season down to the next few games. You have to win now or later do not matter at all. Take a look at your roster and make some moves that shore up your next few games even if it comes at the expense of the stars you wanted for the entire season. Your season is down to the next two or three games.

[Hache Man]

Davis makes transition from dud to stud


San Francisco tight end Vernon Davis is finally producing like fantasy owners expected when he was selected by the 49ers with the sixth pick in the 2006 NFL draft. Davis had never posted more than 509 yards or four touchdowns in a season.
But he's flourishing in 49ers offensive coordinator Jimmy Raye's offense. Davis snared seven passes for 93 yards and three touchdowns in San Francisco's 24-21 loss to the Houston Texans. He now has 29 catches for 355 yards and six touchdowns for the season. And he's recorded at least five receptions in four of his six games. He's starting in less than half of leagues on major websites, so you may be able to pry Davis from another owner who's not taking advantage of his breakout. Or, if Davis is your No. 2 tight end, consider trading your starter to shore up a weak position elsewhere. He'll continue his improved play regardless of whether Shaun Hill or Alex Smith is under center.
-- San Diego running back LaDainian Tomlinson had 73 total yards on 25 touches against a woeful Kansas City defense in a 37-7 Chargers' win.
But the game was a painful reminder Tomlinson is no longer automatic in the red zone. He was denied a score on eight carries inside the 5-yard line. If you're in a keeper league, consider dealing LT for a prospect. In standard leagues, it's probably too late to get good value for him. Be aware he'll likely produce no better than a low-end No. 2 running back the rest of the way. -- Pete O'Brien

[Hache Man]

Sweet Revenge

There was plenty of love to go around if you owned any Bengals on Sunday, as they could do no wrong.

An unlikely rookie managed to vault himself into fantasy relevance for the remainder of the season.

Then there are the usual suspects who made the list and you won't be surprised at all. Check out what went down in Week 7 of the season – hopefully luck was on your side.


Top 5 Quarterbacks:

1. Carson Palmer – 233 Pass Yds, 5 TDs, 0 INTs – Things couldn't have gone much better for Carson and Co., as just four incompletions hit the turf all day. Things haven't been rosey for Palmer from a fantasy perspective thus far, but he put that behind him this week with his third multi-score game, and first since Week 4.

2. Tony Romo – 311 Pass Yds, 3 TDs, 0 INTs, 31 Rush Yds – It looks like last week's 'Bye' did Romo and the Cowboys some good. He finally looks locked in and comfortable with all of his receivers, especially one in particular. Keep scrolling down and you'll see who I'm talking about.

3. Philip Rivers – 268 Pass Yds, 3 TDs, 0 INTs, 18 Rush Yds – Why run the ball when you have Philip Rivers? He has really come into his own over the past year by taking the load of the offense on his shoulders and making the Chargers offense go. Rivers has now thrown for three touchdowns in two of the past three weeks, and is a threat to break out every week.

4. Aaron Rodgers – 246 Pass Yds, 3 TDs, 0 INTs, 23 Rush Yds – Fantasy stud alert! Mr. Rodgers has been absolutely unconscious over his past four games, notching 23-plus fantasy points in each. You better believe he'll be amped up next week against his old mentor in the battle everyone has been waiting for in Lambeau.

5. Peyton Manning – 235 Pass Yds, 3 TDs, 0 INTs – Manning met the criteria of a minimum of three scores and no turnovers to make this week's list, and are you really surprised? Mr. Consistency just keeps on rolling off great game…after game…after game – you get the idea.

Top 5 Running Backs:

1. Ricky Williams – 80 Rush Yds, 3 TDs, 2 Rec, 12 Yds – Ronnie Brown may have had seven more carries, but Ricky stole the show. The word "explosive" doesn't even begin to describe how he looked on his 68-yard score, as he hit the hole and didn't look back.

2. Shonn Greene – 144 Rush Yds, 2 TDs – The rook took full advantage of the injury to Leon Washington, and he's going to get a lot more opportunities going forward. Greene looked surprisingly quick, and he has a chance to be an immediate contributor behind a Jets' offensive line that paved the way for two consecutive games with 300-yards rushing.

3. Cedric Benson – 189 Rush Yds, 1 TD – Talk about playing with a chip on your shoulder. There's no better way to stick it to your old team than by having a career day, and that's exactly what Benson did. The Bengals have a 'Bye' next week and they'll need it to rest, because the Ravens and Steelers are on the horizon, and you better believe those games will be as physical as can be.

4. Ryan Grant – 148 Rush Yds, 1 TD, 1 Rec, 3 Yds – Grant finally notched his first 100-yard game of the season and his second consecutive 90-yard game, as the Packers are finding ways to feed him the rock early and often. He's heating up, and he needs to be in fantasy lineups across the board.

5. DeAngelo Williams – 89 Rush Yds, 1 TD, 5 Rec, 50 Yds – Where there's a D-Will there's a way, and that's exactly what the stud running back managed to do on Sunday by adding a late score in the fourth quarter. Williams is now coming off of two consecutive big weeks, and there is officially no reason to worry.

Top 5 Wide Receivers:

1. Miles Austin – 6 Rec, 171 Yds, 2 TDs – All bow to Sir Austin. Someone forgot to tell him that it was okay if he didn't have another game like his Week 5 effort – 250 Yds, 2 TDs. So, while he didn't quite duplicate that performance, I'll take his output on Sunday any day of the week. This kid is for real, and he has quickly become a household name – if not, he's at least being referred to as "that guy on the Cowboys who gets all those yards and breaks a lot of tackles".

2. Chad Ochocinco – 10 Rec, 118 Yds, 2 TDs – In Ocho we trust! After two straight 100-yard games I'm on the bandwagon, and you can tell Chad to tweet about it. The chemistry is back between him and Carson Palmer, as is evident by both of their performances this week.

3. Vincent Jackson – 5 Rec, 142 Yds, 1 TD – V-Jax has been a monster all season long, and Sunday was no exception. His fantasy day was over at halftime, but that's because the Chargers completely dominated the game. He's a no-brainer WR1 on an offense that is pass first.

4. Wes Welker – 10 Rec, 107 Yds, 1 TD – The PPR machine continued to churn our catches on Sunday, as he now has a ridiculous 28 in the past three games. In those three games, he also has 343-yards and four scores. Not too shabby at all for Tom Brady's favorite check down target.

5. Donald Driver – 2 Rec, 84 Yds, 1 TD – Driver made the most of his opportunities on Sunday, as he looked a generation younger when he sprinted down the field on a 71-yard score. Driver has proven that he hasn't lost a step and, if anything, he's actually gained a step if that's even possible.

Top 5 Tight Ends:

1. Vernon Davis – 7 Rec, 93 Yds, 3 TDs – Mr. Myoplex strikes again. Once regarded as a "bust", Davis has finally seemed to put it all together in his fourth N.F.L. season – cross your fingers. Six touchdowns in his past four games is pretty darn good, especially from a tight end.

2. Owen Daniels – 7 Rec, 123 Yds, 1 TD – Daniels was the number one ranked tight end heading into Week 7's action and he did nothing to hurt that after his performance. He has taken the leap into the elite class of tight ends, and he's there to stay.

3. Spencer Havner – 2 Rec, 59 Yds, 1 TD – Spencer who? Spencer "I'm the third string tight end for the Packers" Havner, that's who. Some fun facts about Havner, since he's not going to be worth picking up, include: He's 25, from Sacramento, California, and has a great head of hair.

4. Jeremy Shockey – 4 Rec, 105 Yds, 0 TDs – Shockey looked mean on Sunday. He trucked and stiff-armed his way down the field and came up "jawing" at defenders every time. As long as he keeps backing it up on the field he can chatter it up all he wants.

5. Dallas Clark – 3 Rec, 44 Yds, 1 TD – You can always rely on Clark to get you some points, unlike other inconsistent tight ends that we are far too accustomed to watching. It's not fair to linebackers that they have to cover this guy, because he is the ultimate mismatch – a.k.a. perfect fantasy matchup.

Top 5 Defenses/Special Teams:

1. Steelers – 17 PA, 1 INT, 1 Fumble Rec, 4 Sacks, 2 TDs – Absolutely bewildered Favre late in the game, as they remain one of the few must start defenses.

2. Saints – 34 PA, 2 INTs, 1 Fumble Rec, 5 Sacks, 2 TDs – Tough matchup next week against the Falcons.

3. Colts – 6 PA, 2 INTs, 3 Sacks, 1 INT, 3 Sacks, 1 TD – Another decent matchup against San Fran next week, especially with the QB situation up in the air.

4. Jets – 0 PA, 2 INTs, 2 Fumble Rec, 3 Sacks – The Raiders cure every team's problems. Picking up any defense playing against them might be the way to go.

5. Chargers – 7 PA, 3 INTs, 3 Sacks, 1 Blk, 1 TD – Up next, Oakland! Shawne Merriman and Co. have to be licking their chops.

Bottom 5 Quarterbacks:

1. Shaun Hill – 45 Pass Yds, 0 TDs, 0 INTs – Alex Smith time permanently?
2. Derek Anderson – 99 Pass Yds, 0 TDs, 0 INTs
3. Chad Henne – 211 Pass Yds, 0 TDs, 0 INTs
4. Matt Cassel – 97 Pass Yds, 1 TD, 3 INTs, 24 Rush Yds – There's no place like New England, there's no place like New England.
5. Jake Delhomme – 325 Yds, 0 TDs, 3 INTs – Such a quick spiral in the wrong direction.

Bottom 5 Running Backs:

1. Willie Parker – 2 Rush Yds, 0 TDs
2. Ahmad Bradshaw – 32 Rush Yds, 1 Rec, -5 Yds, 0 TDs, 1 FL
3. Pierre Thomas – 30 Rush Yds, 1 Rec, 14 Yds, 0 TDs – The Running Back by Committee has once again reared its ugly head.
4. Matt Forte – 24 Rush Yds, 4 Rec, 25 Yds, 0 TDs – Worst nightmare scenario for owners who drafted him in the Top 5.
5. Marion Barber – 47 Rush Yds, 1 Rec, 1 Yd, 0 TDs

Bottom 5 Wide Receivers:

1. Roy E. Williams – 1 Rec, 16 Yds, 0 TDs – Has quickly become an afterthought in the Cowboys' passing game.
2. Braylon Edwards – 1 Rec, 14 Yds, 0 TDs
3. Hines Ward – 1 Rec, 3 Yds, 0 TDs – League's leading receiver? I think not.
4. Bernard Berrian - 2 Rec, 18 Yds, 0 TDs
5. Terrell Owens – 3 Rec, 27 Yds, 0 TDs – Reoccurring theme week-after-week with T.O.

Bottom 5 Tight Ends:

1. Zach Miller – 2 Rec, 15 Yds, 0 TDs
2. Visanthe Shiancoe – 4 Rec, 27 Yds, 0 TDs
3. Greg Olsen – 4 Rec, 24 Yds, 0 TDs
4. Dustin Keller – 1 Rec, 26 Yds, 0 TDs – Struggles still continue with the rookie at the helm.
5. Anthony Fasano – 3 Rec, 21 Yds, 0 TDs

[Hache Man]

Bayou Brilliance



#5. Cowboys 37 Falcons 21


BEYOND THE BOX SCORE

* It's easy to look at the box score and see that Miles Austin had another ridiculous game. But this isn't a fluke. The guy sheds tackles like it's nothing and is also the fastest receiver the Cowboys have. He's the No. 1 receiver and a must-start every week.

* Marion Barber doesn't look hurt, but he's not looking that explosive either. Maybe he just didn't get enough chances because the Cowboys threw the ball so effectively. Still, it's a concern.

* Tashard Choice was not hurt. He just wasn't in the game plan as far as getting carries.

* The Falcons' offensive line had a bad day and it cost the entire Falcons' passing game. There wasn't enough time for Roddy White to run anything but out patterns.

GOING FORWARD

* Jason Snelling was really impressive. He's not going to threaten Michael Turner too much, but he will see 5-9 carries while Jerious Norwood (hip) is out.

* Roy Williams' ribs didn't seem to bother him, but he's the No. 3 option for Tony Romo. He dropped at least two easy passes and couldn't separate on another. He ended up with five targets, but just one catch. It's really hard to start him with any confidence at this point.

* The Cowboys aren't worried about Felix Jones getting hurt. Even though you hold your breath every time he gets hit, the Cowboys used him on kickoffs and ahead of Tashard Choice. He has a chance for flex play value if Choice really is out of the picture.


#4. Cardinals 24 Giants 17


BEYOND THE BOX SCORE

* Eli Manning had just three interceptions on the year heading into Week 7. He threw three more in the loss and has a 12:6 TD-to-INT ratio with seven games under his belt.

* Steve Smith was held without a catch in the first half and made only small gains once he finally got going. We were hoping for a bigger day against the Cardinals' banged up secondary.

* The Cardinals have traditionally struggled in the Meadowlands, but fought for a huge victory and now sit atop the NFC West at 4-2. They've won three straight road games for the first time since 1987.

* Ahmad Bradshaw had a disappointing day. He was held to a season-low 32 rushing yards on 12 attempts and lost a crucial fumble in the fourth quarter while trying to work for extra yardage.

* The Giants' fourth quarter possessions ended with a field goal, a lost fumble and an interception. That's no recipe for success.

* Giants punter Jeff Feagles struggled mightily with his kicks, often giving the Cardinals excellent field position. He told reporters after the game that he was trying to avoid Arizona return man Steve Breaston.

GOING FORWARD

* Chris "Beanie" Wells was trusted with a few goalline carries. Typically that responsibility has been given to Tim Hightower this season, but it seems the Cardinals are building their faith in Wells, who scored his first NFL touchdown in the second quarter. He could wind up a real fantasy commodity by the time this year is through.


#3. Texans 24 49ers 21


BEYOND THE BOX SCORE

* The Texans are maintaining an aggressive, pass-first offense. Matt Schaub took frequent shots downfield and used Owen Daniels as a go-to guy over the middle. Daniels played primarily in the slot and was open all day against a 49ers defense that was down SS Michael Lewis (concussion). Steve Slaton lost another fumble (his fourth of 2009), but is benefiting greatly from the scheme switch while producing like a WR1 over the last three weeks. At this point, his rushing totals are a bonus.

* The Niners' halftime quarterback change from Shaun Hill to Alex Smith may not have won them the game, but they got close. Smith led the team to all of its 21 points in the final two quarters. He looked more poised than ever and exhibited a strong arm while relying on breakout tight end Vernon Davis in the red zone and rookie Michael Crabtree in the short-to-intermediate game.

* The 49ers put brackets on Andre Johnson and shadowed him for most of the game with top CB Nate Clements. The plan worked until Johnson had to exit in the fourth quarter with a "chest bruise." He was hospitalized for a short time, but X-rays came back negative. The Houston Chronicle reported late Sunday that Johnson is not expected to miss any time.

* Frank Gore resumed every-down back duties in his return from a heel injury, but the suddenly run-tough Texans suffocated him with eight in the box in the first half. By the time Hill was pulled and the 49ers began moving the ball consistently, San Francisco was down too many points for Gore to salvage a respectable fantasy day.

GOING FORWARD

* Crabtree is already San Francisco's No. 1 receiver. The 49ers used frequent three-wideout formations with Crabtree in the slot. He plays outside in two-wide looks. Most impressively, Crabtree separated from Houston's defensive backs with ease, was fearless over the middle, and played more snaps than Josh Morgan and Isaac Bruce. Consider him a WR3 going forward, although San Francisco's run-first mentality caps his upside. He would benefit if Smith gets the starting nod over Hill. Smith has a stronger arm and is more willing to throw downfield.

* Andre' Davis appears to have re-passed Jacoby Jones as the Texans' No. 3 receiver despite Jones' high-scoring first half of the season.

* Coach Mike Singletary is expected to name his starting quarterback on Monday. Look for it to be Smith.

* Schaub won't slow down anytime soon. After heading to Buffalo in Week 8, the No. 1 fantasy quarterback in the league plays six of his final eight games in domes. The other two are played in Florida against the Dolphins and Jaguars' punchless secondaries.


#2. Steelers 27 Vikings 17


BEYOND THE BOX SCORE

* The Steelers contained Adrian Peterson pretty well throughout the day, which took away the Vikings' play-action pass. The play-action had been a weapon for Brett Favre and the passing game all year, as he was 20-26 for three touchdowns in the team's first six games. On Sunday, when running play action, Favre was six-of-15 with a 53.2 passer rating.

* The Pittsburgh defense stepped up huge when they needed to. LaMarr Woodley returned a Favre fumble 77 yards for a touchdown, and on the next offensive possession, Favre tried dumping one off to Chester Taylor, but it was picked off by Keyaron Fox and returned 82 yards for the score. Both turnovers occurred in the fourth quarter.

* Vikings' left guard Steve Hutchinson committed his first penalty in the last 27 games on Sunday.

* Penalties hurt the Vikings big time in this one, as they racked up 11 penalties for 78 yards compared to three for 15 yards by the Steelers.

GOING FORWARD

* Sidney Rice and Favre have developed some good chemistry on the field in the last few weeks. After starting the season slow, Rice has 25 catches for 443 yards in the last four games. He has easily become Favre's favorite target, as he was thrown to 14 times on Sunday. Rice and Co. go to Green Bay next week, and in Week 4 Rice caught five passes for 70 yards and a touchdown against the Packer defense.

* Mike Wallace had a big game, catching three passes for 72 yards and a touchdown, but hold off on him in fantasy for now. Hines Ward, Santonio Holmes, and Heath Miller are all going to see more passes their way before Wallace. He's always a threat to have a one-catch week.

* Willie Parker is no longer part of the Pittsburgh offense, as he only touched the ball one time on Sunday. Rashard Mendenhall is clearly the team's No. 1 running back, and this is far from a time-share. Mewelde Moore played more snaps and got more touches (four) than Parker did.


#1. Saints 46 Dolphins 34


BEYOND THE BOX SCORE

* Despite the combined 80 points, both defenses played well for the majority of the game. Drew Brees was sacked five times, threw three interceptions, and was forced into two fumbles. The Saints defense returned two interceptions for touchdowns, as the team came back from an early 24-3 deficit.

* Keep an eye on the Saints kicking situation. Though John Carney missed a crucial extra point, it could easily be blamed on a bad snap. He also missed a 49-yard field goal, which is certain no gimme.

* Saints LT Jermon Bushrod was deservedly lauded for his play against the Giants this week, but he was beaten several times by Joey Porter and Jason Taylor on Sunday.

* Chad Henne appeared to fall apart once the Saints mounted their comeback. His accuracy and decision making were spotty down the stretch, as the team abandoned the successful running game.

* Drew Brees has no qualms about throwing high to Marques Colston in heavy traffic, especially near the goal-line. Colston was stopped just shy of the goal-line on one spectacular catch and had another snatched out of his leaping hands at the stripe. He also narrowly missed a short touchdown pass as well as a 2-point conversion attempt.

GOING FORWARD

* Pierre Thomas has a Mike Bell problem. Thomas started and ran hard against a physical Dolphins defense, but he couldn't get into a rhythm. Mike Bell entered in the second half and gave the offense a shot in the arm with fresh legs. Though Thomas stayed in the mix, Bell got the nod down the stretch.

* Between Devery Henderson, Lance Moore, and Robert Meachem, the production is too spotty from week to week. Marques Colston is the only
reliable Saints receiver.

* Reggie Bush saw just six touches, and he shouldn't expect to see much more than that on a weekly basis going forward.

* It's time to put the anointing oils away on Chad Henne.

* Ricky Williams still has plenty of life left in his legs.

* The Dolphins passing game is essentially useless for fantasy purposes.

[Hache Man]

Brees' season has been boom or bust for fantasy owners


By Matt Pitzer, USA TODAY
If the New Orleans Saints' Drew Brees is so good, why are his owners getting nauseous from an unexpected rollercoaster ride?
He is supposed to be the best quarterback in the best offense on the planet. Yet three times in the past four weeks, Brees has had a disappointing fantasy game. His saving grace against the Miami Dolphins was two quarterback sneaks for touchdowns, but if you are docked points for interceptions, then his three interceptions certainly hurt.

WAIVER WIRE:Jets' Greene should cash in on opportunity
THE SLOT:Steelers' Wallace an exceptional WR3 value

That six-touchdown season debut was only six weeks ago, but it feels like it was from a different decade. Brees has zero or one touchdown pass in half of his games. He had fewer than 300 passing yards in each of those games.
In those other three games, Brees has 13 TD passes and has averaged 346 passing yards. You can't think about sitting him because of that explosive potential. But the other half of the time, he basically has been David Garrard.

Those rushing TDs count just as much as passing TDs (if not more), but they are not sustainable. If Brees has two more rushing scores the rest of the season, call yourself lucky. If you're counting on his legs to carry the day when Brees has trouble throwing, think again.
And don't be surprised if he hits more tough spots. As powerful as the Saints offense is, the problem with it is defenses know they are in for a long day. Gearing up to stop the Saints is the highlight of any defense's season, so opponents bring everything they've got.
The schedule, however, does not indicate much trouble ahead. This week, the Saints face the Atlanta Falcons, who just gave up 37 points to the Dallas Cowboys. After that come walkovers vs. the Carolina Panthers, St. Louis Rams and Tampa Bay Buccaneers before a Week 11 game against the New England Patriots. In each of these next four games, the Saints should be one of the most productive teams.
But if Brees continues on his current track, he will have one or two duds in there. Good luck figuring out when it will be, and even better luck if you have the temerity to act on your beliefs and actually bench him.
Forte fumbling, stumbling
Another disappointing starter is Matt Forte, who was supposed to improve on a strong rookie season after the Chicago Bears juiced up the offense by acquiring quarterback Jay Cutler. Instead, Forte has more fumbles (three) than TDs (one). He also has gone over 66 yards once and has 15 carries or fewer four times. He never had fewer than 15 last year until Week 15.
The offense clearly belongs to Cutler, so the question is whether Forte is an automatic fantasy starter. We'll even throw Sunday's 24-yard debacle against the Cincinnati Bengals out of the equation. Coming into Week 7, Chicago was 27th in rushing, despite coach Lovie Smith's one-time proclamation that the Bears would get off the bus running.
Looking at the matchups, it would be difficult to bench Forte. This week, the Bears host the Cleveland Browns. Last week, the Browns helped another running back who had started relatively slowly, Ryan Grant, bust out for a season-high 148 yards. Surely, the Bears, at home, can do the same with Forte.
No matter how bad Forte has been, sitting him this week is a bad idea. Later on, though, do not be afraid to sit him.
In some ways, Forte is similar to Rams star Steven Jackson. You don't want to sit him, either, but you're not getting much when you play them. Jackson gets plenty of work (a season-high 134 rushing yards vs. the Indianapolis Colts) and is going for his first TD of the season this week against the Detroit Lions. Jackson definitely should be on your bench in difficult games. Even when he is a great start such as this week, he is no sure thing, because the way to beat the Lions is through the air, not on the ground.

[Hache Man]

Capital Punishment

Jason Campbell has an excellent arm, is accurate, can move well and has ideal size. That's great at the scouting combine. But Campbell is lacking the one attribute that makes for a good NFL quarterback: Feel.

The Redskins quarterback just doesn't have it. He doesn't make things happen off broken plays. He doesn't adjust protections. He can't make multiple reads and he doesn't lead his team. He simply is not a playmaker.

And when news broke late last night that Chris Cooley will miss the season due to the ankle he broke against the Eagles, the situation got much worse. Cooley was just about the only Redskins player worth starting in fantasy football. Now they're a complete wasteland.

Campbell takes a lot of the blame for that, but the makeshift offensive line has to take heat as well. Injuries have made this unit among the worst in the league. That's what happens when you don't address the offensive line in the draft and constantly take skill players.

So when will the 'Skins become relevant in fantasy again? How about a 2011 team led by Jake Locker and coached by Mike Shanahan?

Misery loves company and Campbell has plenty of it. At least 20 percent of the league's signal-callers are under fire. Here's a quick look at them:

* Titans: Coach Jeff Fisher would not commit to Kerry Collins as his team prepares for the Jaguars this week. Vince Young would get a lot of headlines if he gets the nod, but he can only hurt the Titans' wideouts.

* Bucs: There's no news yet on the Josh Freeman era, but it's time. The Bucs are 0-7, on a bye and Josh Johnson has made fistfuls of wretched decisions. Expect the first-round rookie, Freeman, to be under center in Week 9 as the Bucs see what they have.

* 49ers: Alex Smith has officially taken over for Shaun Hill. It's an upgrade for the entire Niners' offense, especially Vernon Davis and Michael Crabtree. Smith is even worth consideration in two-QB leagues.

* Bills: Even though Trent Edwards (concussion) was medically cleared to play, the Bills are going to start Ryan Fitzpatrick this week. If Fitzpatrick can nail down his third straight win this week against the Texans, it could be his job going forward. Upgrade Lee Evans as long as Fitzpatrick is under center.

* Panthers: Coach John Fox would not commit to Jake Delhomme as the team heads into its bye week. Yes, Delhomme has been a turnover machine but does Fox really have any better options? Steve Smith, DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart are better off with Matt Moore and A.J. Feeley on the sidelines.

* Browns: Cleveland is not considering a quarterback change despite Derek Anderson's 32.3 completion percentage over his last five games. The coaching staff has seen Brady Quinn and they don't like the way it tastes. Brett Ratliff may be the eventual answer.

Eagles vs. Redskins quick hitters:
Cooley's injury will hurt the 'Skins' pass protection even more. ... Brian Westbrook left after suffering a concussion on a scary knee to the head. He was out cold. … Is anyone in the league faster with the ball in their hands than DeSean Jackson? … Fred Davis showed his receiving skills in spite of his pass protection problems. He's worth a look with Cooley out. … The Eagles defense is among the best in fantasy. Sean McDermott has picked up right where Jim Johnson left off. … Sherman Lewis was calling plays for the first time while Will Witherspoon was doing the same thing on the other side of the ball.

Editor's Note: For early rankings, complete projections, and a host of other exclusive material for Week 8, head to Rotoworld's Season Pass.

NEWS OF THE DAY #2
The phrase "break a leg" has always seemed like a strange thing to say. It's unconfirmed if Jets' management uttered those words after Leon Washington turned down their contract extension offers this summer.

Washington is out for the season after fracturing his tibia and fibula against the Raiders Sunday. The pickup of the week is going to be rookie Shonn Greene and with good reason. Greene is a talented runner that will immediately step in right behind Thomas Jones. Add him in all formats.

Editor's Note: For early rankings, complete projections, and a host of other exclusive material for Week 8, head to Rotoworld's Season Pass.

INJURY QUICK SLANTS
Andre Johnson has a lung contusion (not sure exactly what that is, but it doesn't sound good). His status for this week is up in the air. … Jermichael Finley (knee) is out for at least this week and maybe more. Tough setback for a talented guy that was coming on. … Chaz Schilens (foot) is still sore and his status for Week 8 is unknown. No one is holding their breath considering the way the Raiders' offense has looked. … Donnie Avery keeps getting nicked but isn't expected to miss any time. … The updates on Anthony Gonzalez's (knee) status are still very vague, but coach Jim Caldwell says he's getting close. … Bernard Berrian (hamstring) is hopeful of playing in the Favreaggedon II this week, but he's very questionable. … Terrell Owens tweeted that he hurt his knee Sunday, but it doesn't seem to concern the team. … Wes Welker says he's close to 100 percent after an early-season knee injury. That means he has 20 catches in the last two games at less than full strength? … Brett Swain is out for the season with an ACL injury.

Editor's Note: Not happy with your fantasy teams? New weekly leagues are drafting every single day at Snapdraft. Draft your team during the week, even Sunday morning, and win cash by Tuesday. It's a great complement to your yearly leagues and rewards the most skilled fantasy players who know matchups and value.

DEPTH CHART QUICK SLANTS
Ted Ginn is set to see even less playing time going forward after another sub-par outing. Brian Hartline stands to benefit. … Ryan Fitzpatrick admitted that he has better chemistry with Lee Evans than the other Bills receivers. … Texans coach Gary Kubiak gave Steve Slaton a solid vote of confidence even though his running back lost his fourth fumble of the season Sunday. … Rashard Mendenhall's role as the main back remains intact despite a fumble and some extra work for Mewelde Moore last week. … Beanie Wells hasn't officially taken over for Tim Hightower, but his role is increasing weekly. … Michael Turner said he feels fine physically and threw his offensive line under the bus for his poor numbers Sunday. … There's speculation that Mario Manningham's drops will lead to Hakeem Nicks stealing his starting job. … Larry Johnson didn't get disciplined by the team yet for his ridiculous rants on Twitter, but it's coming. He's just not a good person or player. Bad combination.

DEFENSE SPOT STARTS
Here are two ideas for owners adding a new defense each week based on matchups:

CHARGERS vs. Raiders - No need to keep piling on JaMarcus Russell. He's terrible. Let's move on.

BEARS vs. Browns - Pull the trigger on a team that gave up 45 points the previous week. They'll be angry and Derek Anderson has nine turnovers by himself in the last five games.

POSITIONAL SPOT STARTS
Chris Wesseling will cover this topic from head-to-toe in his Waiver Wired column, but here are two guys that are worth a quick add:

RB Shonn Greene - What a weekend for Greene. First his alma mater (Iowa) remains undefeated with a miraculous touchdown drive, and then Leon Washington breaks his leg. See above for more.

RB Chris Wells - Beanie was drafted in all leagues, but there's a good chance he was dropped while playing behind Tim Hightower. The changing of the guard is happening as we speak

[Hache Man]

Snipe Hunting

In one of the all-time classic Cheers episodes from 1985, the gang introduces a gullible Frasier Crane to the southern tradition of snipe hunting. Anxious to join in on a fishing expedition, Frasier allows Sam, Norm, Cliff and the others to trick him into running around deep in the woods holding a gunnysack and making strange clucking noises. Meanwhile, the gang promises to go into the bush to beat out the snipe, instead heading back to the bar to have a few hearty yuks at Frasier's expense.

This week's waiver wire is a lot like the wild-goose chase known as the snipe hunt. While Beanie Wells and Shonn Greene are attractive running back options, credible wide receivers such as Lee Evans (75%), Michael Crabtree (83%), Anthony Gonzalez (74%), and Eddie Royal (66%) are already owned in most leagues. The best available quarterbacks are a former fist-round bust (Alex Smith), an undrafted backup (Matt Moore), and a cratering veteran in a sunk offense (Marc Bulger). We'll do our best to sift through the rubble for matchup plays and possible second-half saviors, but it could be a fool's errand. It's going to take a "sniper" to come away from this week's waiver hunt successfully.

On to the lists. Here is how I rank the top players available at each position as we head into Week 8. Full writeups of each player are below.

Editor's Note: Join subscriber only chats, get weekly rankings before anyone else, plus exclusive weekly projections, stat tools, dynasty ranks, columns, and much more including the Rotoworld Oracle in our Season Pass. Our mid-season edition is now 33 percent off!

Running Backs
1. Beanie Wells
2. Shonn Greene
3. Jamaal Charles
4. Justin Fargas
5. Jason Snelling
6. Ahman Green

Wide Receivers
1. Malcom Floyd
2. Nate Washington
3. Kenny Britt
4. Mike Wallace
5. James Jones
6. Brian Hartline

Quarterbacks
1. Alex Smith
2. Ryan Fitzpatrick
3. Marc Bulger
4. Matt Moore

Tight Ends
1. Fred Davis
2. Zach Miller
3. Donald Lee

Defenses
1. Cardinals
2. Cowboys
3. Chargers

Editor's Note: Not happy with your fantasy teams? New weekly leagues are drafting every single day at Snapdraft. Draft your team during the week, even Sunday morning, and win cash by Tuesday. It's a great complement to your yearly leagues and rewards the most skilled fantasy players who know matchups and value.

RUNNING BACKS

Beanie Wells, Cardinals – Based on his expanded role the previous game, we recommended Wells last week and he came through with 77 total yards and a touchdown against the Giants. Oddly enough, Beanie is owned in just half of all leagues for the second straight week, so jump on him if he's available. Wells is a much more dynamic runner than Tim Hightower, and he brings an added dimension to the Cardinals offense. The three receptions are a promising sign that he's growing more comfortable in the pass-first system, and the coaching staff is clearly building their faith in the rookie. The first-rounder could easily establish RB2 value down the stretch run this season.

Recommendation: Should be owned in all leagues

Shonn Greene, Jets – Coming off a 19/144/2 line against a wilting Raiders team, Greene is sure to top many waiver lists this week. The Jets won't run over 50 times per game, however, so expect closer to 10 carries per week with Leon Washington done for the season. As he's not much of a factor in the passing game, Greene will have to find the end zone in order to maintain weekly fantasy value. The good news is that Green showed terrific short-area quickness and power while finishing every run with authority against the Raiders. While Thomas Jones' presence limits his upside, Greene's talent merits a pickup in all but the shallowest leagues.

Recommendation: Should be owned in 12-team leagues

Jamaal Charles, Chiefs – Both the Chiefs and the NFL are investigating Larry Johnson's Twitter tirade early this week. What the Chiefs will find out is that LJ has zero respect for his head coach or the fans that make his cushy lifestyle possible. At the very least, he should expect a suspension – if not his outright release. Coach Todd Haley has stayed loyal to his plodding running back to a fault this season, so he's not going to look kindly on the Twitter pot shot. Kansas City's patchwork offensive line isn't opening any holes this season, which makes the more elusive Charles a better fit regardless. The second-year back isn't a carry-the-load type of runner, but even in the Chiefs lifeless offense he'll gain fantasy relevance as a weekly flex play with the increased touches.

Recommendation: Should be owned in 12-team leagues

Justin Fargas, Raiders – While Michael Bush started in Week 7, Fargas was the far more effective runner, gaining 90 yards on 11 touches against the Jets. A Tom Cable favorite, Fargas is beginning to gain separation on Bush in the backfield pecking order. Darren McFadden is not expected back for Sunday's game against the Chargers, so Fargas is an acceptable option for owners with bye-week issues.

Recommendation: Worth a look in 12-team leagues

Jason Snelling, Falcons – With Jerious Norwood (hip pointer) out indefinitely, Snelling filled in as Atlanta's change-of-pace back to the tune of 78 yards on eight touches against the Cowboys. If the Week 7 performance is any indication, he'll handle third-down work while taking a series here and there from Michael Turner. His pass-catching ability makes him a bye-week option for those owners desperate for a flex play.

Recommendation: Worth a look as a bye-week fill-in

Ahman Green - Similar to Ricky Williams, Green still looked relatively explosive for an over-thirty back when we last saw him with the Texans. Expect him to start eating into Brandon Jackson's third-down role starting this week. Though Ryan Grant appeared to solidify his early-down role with a grinding 148-yard effort against a soft Browns defense, the Packers have been concerned about their lead-back's lack of explosiveness. He'll have to stay productive to hold off Green.

Recommendation: Worth a look in deeper leagues

Long-Term Fliers

BenJarvus Green-Ellis - Laurence Maroney didn't turn any heads with his Week 7 performance.

Justin Forsett - Julius Jones' leash is shortening.

Bernard Scott - Handcuff for Benson owners.

Cut Bait

Willie Parker - No longer has an offensive role.

Leon Washington - Done for the season with a fractured fibula.

Fred Jackson - Now a clear backup instead of a committee partner.

Tim Hightower - No longer worthy of a roster spot in standard scoring leagues.



WIDE RECEIVERS

Malcom Floyd, Chargers – The 6'5 red-zone threat produced three games with at least 60 yards and a touchdown while filling in for Chris Chambers in Weeks 6-9 last year. While he's been relegated to three-wide looks and goal-line work so far, Floyd is in line for an increased role with Chambers disappearing this season. Coach Norv Turner indicated as much Monday when promised to take a "hard look" at replacing Chambers with Floyd. At this point, Floyd is simply a more effective receiver. Stash him as a possible WR3/4 for the second half.

Recommendation: Should be owned in 12-team leagues

Nate Washington, Titans – Between the Titans' 59-0 shellacking at New England, the Week 7 bye, and the ongoing quarterback conundrum, Washington is now owned in just half of all leagues. He comes with a risk in Tennessee's flaky passing offense, but the matchup is right this week against a Jaguars secondary allowing the second-most fantasy points to opposing wide receivers.

Recommendation: Worth a look in 12-team leagues

Kenny Britt, Titans – Britt is an even more high-risk option than Washington this week, but the rookie is headed for an increased role in the second half of the season. ESPN.com's AFC South blogger, Paul Kuharsky (a former Titans beat writer), believes Britt "could, and probably should, move ahead of the drop-prone Justin Gage as a starting receiver."

Recommendation: Worth a look in 12-team leagues

Mike Wallace, Steelers – While fantasy owners keep writing him off as a situational deep threat, the third-round speedster has been between 47 and 100 yards in each of the last five weeks. Bear in mind that the Steelers have a bye this week, but Wallace is worth a stash in the Steelers' new uptempo, pass-first offense. His Week 10-12 schedule includes three teams in the Top-10 for points allowed to wide receivers.

Recommendation: Worth a look in 12-team leagues

James Jones - Note that his one-reception performance in Week 7 came in a game where Aaron Rodgers attempted just 20 passes. The Packers' No. 3 receiver has attractive matchups against the Vikings (missing Pro Bowl CB Antoine Winfield), Bucs, and Cowboys the next three weeks. Rodgers went off for 384 yards in the last matchup against the Vikes, and Sunday's game is sure to be another pass-heavy effort with the Williams Wall shutting down the running game.

Recommendation: Worth a look as a bye-week fill-in

Brian Hartline, Dolphins – After he led the Dolphins with 94 yards in Week 7, coach Tony Sparano promised more playing time for the rookie going forward. His upside is severely limited in the Dolphins run-oriented offense, but if there is one Miami receiver to own it's Hartline.

Recommendation: Worth a look in deeper leagues

Long-Term Fliers

Brandon Tate - Special teams maven Sam Aiken is handling No. 3 receiver duties for now, but the more explosive Tate has the bye-week to get caught up to speed in the Pats offense.

Danny Amendola - Destitute man's Wes Welker led the Rams in targets and receptions in Week 7.

Bobby Wade - Limited upside, but getting quick-slant looks with Matt Cassel constantly pressured.

Cut Bait

Ted Ginn - Dropping passes and losing playing time to Hartline.

Pierre Garcon - Anthony Gonzalez is nearing a return, and our favorite French waiter is being outplayed by rookie Austin Collie.

Mohamed Massaquoi - The Browns have four offensive touchdowns in their last 13 games, and the passing games is actually regressing.



QUARTERBACKS

Alex Smith, 49ers –Smith looked fantastic coming off the bench and leading the Niners to a near-comeback against the Texans in Week 7. Now four years removed from being the No. 1 overall pick in the 2005 draft, Smith showed more poise than ever while utilizing Michael Crabtree to drive down the field before turning to Vernon Davis in the red zone. Keep expectations low, however, with opposing coordinators now game-planning for Smith. He has a brutal matchup this week against a Colts defense allowing the 30th most points to opposing quarterbacks.

Recommendation: Worth a look in 12-team leagues

Ryan Fitzpatrick, Bills – After Fitzpatrick "led" the Bills to a second straight improbable victory, coach Dick Jauron refused to say that Trent Edwards (concussion) would get the starting job back when healthy. Fitzpatrick has a neutral matchup against the Texans at home this week. While his popgun arm limits his fantasy upside, the willingness to target Lee Evans and Terrell Owens instead of checking down is a promising sign. He's worth a look as a desperate bye-week patch.

Recommendation: Worth a look in two-quarterback leagues

Marc Bulger, Rams – The Week 8 matchup couldn't be better with the Lions on the docket. Detroit's secondary is playing even worse than they did in last year's winless season, and they're allowing the second-most fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks. If ever there was a time to use Bulger, this is the week.

Recommendation: Worth picking up as a desperate matchup play

Matt Moore, Panthers – John Fox refused to announce his quarterback plans at Monday's press conference. Fox's mixed signals even had Panthers beat writers drawing different conclusions about this week's starter. The head coach cited "competitive" reasons for not revealing his plans, which seems to indicate that Matt Moore has a chance to start. The NFL Offensive Rooke of the Month in December two years ago, Moore is worth a speculative pick-up in two-quarterback leagues.

Recommendation: Worth a look in two-quarterback leagues

Long-Term Fliers

Vince Young - The guess here is that Kerry Collins has one more start in him, but owner Bud Adams is getting antsy.

Matthew Stafford - The Lions passing game won't have fantasy relevance even in deeper leagues until he and Calvin Johnson (knee) return, likely in a couple of weeks.

Cut Bait

Shaun Hill - Bench-bound in favor of Alex Smith.

Jake Delhomme - Head coach John Fox refused to back Delhomme as his starter.

Josh Johnson - Bucs likely turning to "Free-chise" after the bye.

Chad Henne - Put away the anointing oils.

TIGHT ENDS

Fred Davis, Redskins – Last year's second-round pick led the Redskins in targets (10), receptions (8), and yards (78) after Chris Cooley left Monday's game with a broken foot. Davis is spending the bye week preparing for his new role as the starter, and he has the talent to produce TE2 numbers in the Redskins offense. Davis is not known as a quality blocker, however, so he won't be used as an every-down tight end. Monday's game will likely stand up as the high-water mark.

Recommendation: Should be owned in deeper leagues

Zach Miller, Raiders – Will it be the lady or the tiger? Miller went from 136 yards in Week 6 to just 15 in Week 7. He remains a high-risk play in the Raiders' dysfunctional offense, but the Chargers have been an inviting matchup for opposing tight ends for the past two years. It's worth noting that three of Miller's top four yardage games have come against San Diego, and he racked up eight catches for 64 yards in a fourth game. I'm playing him this week.

Recommendation: Worth a look as a matchup play

Donald Lee, Packers – Lee was second on the Packers with three receptions last week, and he's due for an increased role with Jermichael Finley (knee) out this week. Finley and Lee shredded the Vikings defense for a combined 10 catches for 156 yards in the previous encounter, so it's a tight-end friendly matchup.

Recommendation: Worth a look in deeper leagues

Long-Term Fliers

Gary Barnidge - Panthers' new deep threat was one bad Delhomme pass shy of a 100-yard game in Week 7.

Jared Cook - Talented rookie could earn a longer look in the second half.

Cut Bait

Chris Cooley - Out for the season with a broken foot.

Jermichael Finley - Not likely to see the field for another couple of weeks after spraining his knee in Week 7.

Anthony Fasano - Just having a terrible year.

DEFENSE/SPECIAL TEAMS

Cardinals - Jackpot. The Cardinals defensive line is playing lights out behind Darnell Dockett and Calais Campbell, and ball-hawking corner Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie will be smiling all week at the thought of facing Jake Delhomme or Matt Moore at home. The Cardinals are good enough to be picked up regardless of matchup, so consider the turnover-prone Panthers a bonus.

Recommendation: Should be owned in 12-team leagues

Cowboys - DeMarcus Ware is starting to heat up, and the Seahawks bring a injury-ravaged offensive line to town. Expect a sack-fest in Dallas this week.

Recommendation: Worth picking up as a matchup play

Chargers - A quality matchup play for the second straight week, the Chargers draw the delusional JaMarcus Russell at home this week. Coach Tom Cable is a glutton for punishment, and San Diego is sure to oblige.

Recommendation: Worth picking up as a matchup play

[Hache Man]

Down & Out in Kansas City


Following Sunday's 37-7 embarrassment at the hands of the Chargers, Larry Johnson let off steam by taking a pot shot at his head coach's credibility, throwing around inflammatory slurs about gays, and continuing the disturbing trend of NFL players waving their inflated salaries in the face of the fans that provide for their cushy lifestyle. With time to reflect the next day, Johnson showed no remorse, warning reporters to "get your f***** ass out of here."

Johnson's agent immediately went into damage control mode, culminating in a prepared apology to Todd Haley, the Chiefs, the fans, and the NFL. The statement's claim that Johnson "never meant to offend anyone" was particularly galling, considering the purpose behind every "tweet" in his diatribe was just that: to insult and offend.

By the time the dust had cleared Tuesday afternoon, the Chiefs had banned Johnson from all team-related activities until the conclusion of their investigation. While not technically a suspension, the move could be the first in an escalating series of steps leading to a "complete parting of ways." RealGM.com, a website with no history of breaking news, quoted a team source as saying the Chiefs will "sever ties" with Johnson before the end of the week. After considering all of the information he's gathered from team sources, beat writer Kent Babb said late Tuesday night that he doesn't believe Johnson will be released this week but that he could be gone "soon."

Without delving too deeply into Johnson's lengthy rap sheet, suffice it to say his checkered history, destructive attitude, and poor on-field performance this season leave the Chiefs with little reason to let bygones be bygones. Expect little-to-no interest from the other 31 teams in the league, which makes LJ eminently droppable in fantasy leagues.

In the meantime, Jamaal Charles is taking first-team practice reps and earning high praise from his head coach. Last year's third-round pick, Charles calls to mind Jerious Norwood as high-cut with more of a sprinter's build. The Chiefs have given no indication that they see Charles as a workhorse back, so expect him to eventually split touches with the more plodding Kolby Smith. While touches have had little value in the Chiefs offense so far, Charles has been considerably more effective as both a runner and receiver than Johnson this season. If he can stay in the 15-20 touch range, Charles should end up with borderline RB2/3 value. Kansas City's new lead back is worthy of a high waiver wire selection this week, especially in PPR leagues.

Editor's Note: For early rankings, complete projections, and a host of other exclusive material for Week 8, head to Rotoworld's Season Pass. We're offering the mid-season edition at 33 percent off!

After coach Jim Zorn predicted that he would land on injured reserve with a fractured ankle, Chris Cooley visited a foot specialist who determined that the injury was not as serious as first believed. Cooley had three pins inserted and hopes to be back in four weeks. Fred Davis, last year's second-round pick, will take over as the tight end for at least Weeks 10-12. Cooley is expected to return for the fantasy playoffs, so he's worth holding onto if you can afford the roster spot.

There are mixed signals emanating from Philadelphia regarding Brian Westbrook's (concussion) status for this week's game against the Giants. After the Philadelphia Daily News reported that there was a good chance Westbrook would be unavailable, coach Andy Reid indicated that he's not ruling out his feature back. Reid is counting on Westbrook playing but will have to wait for the concussion tests before making a determination. According to beat writer Jeff McLane, however, doctors are saying it doesn't look good for Westbrook this week. We should know more on Wednesday, but owners should seek alternatives in the mean time.

Matthew Stafford (knee) returned to a limited practice Tuesday. "I didn't get all the reps, but I took a few," said Stafford. "This is the most I've done on it, and it felt pretty good." Stafford took snaps with the No. 1 offense and sported no obvious limp. The most important test will be Wednesday, where team officials will check his knee for swelling. The return to practice, though, is an encouraging development.

Though Calvin Johnson (knee) was held out again, he did some running drills on the side and said he feels "a lot better" than he did a week ago. "I'm definitely optimistic, but I'm not positive," said Johnson. "I'll see what I can do tomorrow." We'd feel a lot better about Johnson's chances of playing this week if he can at least return to a limited practice. Check back Wednesday afternoon for an update on his status.

Editor's Note: Not happy with your fantasy teams? New weekly leagues are drafting every single day at Snapdraft. Draft your team during the week, even Sunday morning, and win cash by Tuesday. It's a great complement to your yearly leagues and rewards the most skilled fantasy players who know matchups and value.

Two-Minute Drill: While Titans owner Bud Adams reportedly wants to see Vince Young at quarterback this week, Kerry Collins has not yet been told that there's been a change. … Patriots coach Bill Belichick offered a serious defense of Laurence Maroney Tuesday, placing blame on the offensive line for not opening enough holes in the running game. … Jets RB/WR Danny Woodhead will see an increased role on third-downs with Leon Washington out for the season. Shonn Greene will pick up the early-down carries. … Falcons coach Mike Smith suggested that RB Jason Snelling will see an increase in playing time if he continues to play well. The Falcons also signed former Saints RB Aaron Stecker for depth with Jerious Norwood (hip) and Ovie Mughelli (calf) injured. … Free agent QB Patrick Ramsey worked out for the Bills Tuesday. … Congress has scheduled a hear to review the Minnesota state court's decision that blocked the suspensions of Vikings DTs Kevin Williams and Pat Williams. … After being ruled ineligible for the rest of the season by the NCAA, Oklahoma State WR Dez Bryant is expected to eventually declare for the 2010 NFL Draft.

Red Zone: Colts GM Bill Polian indicated that RB Donald Brown (shoulder contusion) will likely miss this week's game and could be sidelined 2-3 weeks. Reggie Wayne (groin) is expected to practice and play against the 49ers Sunday. … Andre Johnson said Tuesday that his bruised lung is "doing fine" and he's feeling better. … DeSean Jackson has a right foot sprain, but he's expected to play against the Giants this weekend. … Anquan Boldin did not experience a setback with his sprained ankle in Week 7, and he's expected to be available to face the Panthers Sunday. … Joe Flacco's ankle tweak is not expected to hinder him in this week's game against the Broncos. … Clinton Portis and Jason Campbell both came out of Monday's game with sprained ankles, but they have a bye week to fully recover. … Though Leon Washington (fractured fibula) is out for the season, he's expected to be recovered in just 12 weeks. … Steelers FS Ryan Clark (sickle cell trait) is still undecided about playing this week in Denver where the thin air caused his blood to attack his organs in 2007. ILB Lawrence Timmons deemed his Grade One right ankle sprain "not a big deal." … The Falcons placed second-round S William Moore on injured reserve with a hamstring ailment`

[Hache Man]

Hungry? Lynch is Ready


What position would LeBron James play in the NFL? The obvious choice is Wide Receiver, but I can do better. After watching him fly through time to pin Rajon Rondo's first-quarter dunk attempt on the glass last night, I decided I would want him with the ball in his hands as much as possible: Wildcat. Sure, LeBron is 6'8" and could post up NFL defensive backs, but who on earth is going to tackle a 280-pound tank who runs a 4.4 (guessing). I mean we all saw what Adrian Peterson did to William Gay, and he is 6'1/217. What would King James have done?


Guys like LeBron and Peterson are rare talents, and can't really be contained under any circumstances. Unfortunately, the rest of NFL RBs need certain circumstances to succeed. LeBron James probably wouldn't have to get all of his team's GL carries to be the best player in fantasy football history (although who would give him the GL carries? He could probably leap from the 1-yard line and dunk over the goal post). Here are some guys who do have to get their team's carries in scoring situations to be valuable in fantasy football:

Stock Up

Marshawn Lynch, Bills RB

Early on, it looked like Lynch was on the road to getting Wally Pipped by Fred Jackson, but Jackson's performance eventually came back down to earth, leaving the Bills' RB job there for the taking. And although Lynch hasn't quite grabbed the RB job by the horns, he definitely has control. This past Sunday, Lynch got 9-of-10 Red Zone carries and, more importantly, 4 of the 5 Goal Line carries for the Bills. In the 4 games since Lynch has returned, Marshawn has clearly been the favorite in scoring situations getting 75% of RZ carries and 4 of the 6 GL carries. In addition, Jackson only had 1 touch this past week, signaling that Lynch is closing in on complete control of Buffalo's run game.

While no one will ever accuse him of being the smartest RB, Marshawn can definitely help fantasy owners. Although Lynch is owned in virtually every league, his lack of production has resulted in him being imminently available through trade. Now that he has regained control of the Bills RB duties, it's the perfect time to grab Lynch before the breakout. It doesn't hurt that he's facing Houston this week. No team has given up more rushing TDs on the year.

LaDainian Tomlinson, Chargers RB

LT has put up a boring 7 points 2 weeks in a row, but this past game could have been HUGE. LT got 10 Goal Line carries, and while it is disappointing that he failed to convert any of them, it's a great sign that Norv Turner's faith in him has fully returned. All you can ask for as a fantasy owner is for you RB to get the CHANCES, because those can be predicted. Results, on the other hand, are the true variable. If LT got 10 GL carries every week, I'd bet the house on him being the most valuable player in fantasy football. While those 10 GL carries won't happen every week, it is a good bet that LT will get close to all of the Chargers' carries in scoring situations going forward.

For the year, LT has gotten 82% of San Diego's RZ carries (82% of GL, too), so he's clearly once again the dominant back. In light of that, I maintain that Tomlinson is a top 10 RB, and a great buy low option. In the words of hopelessly optimistic Mets fans everywhere: Ya Gotta Believe!

Laurence Maroney, Patriots RB

Maroney was the hot pickup last week, but the enthusiasm on him has seemed to die down. Ironically, my view on him has shifted in the opposite direction. Last week I was impressed, but definitely skeptical. What bothered me was Bill Belichick's propensity to use different RBs in scoring situations. But, for the 2nd straight game, Maroney was the only player to get carries in scoring situations. He got 5-of-5 RZ carries, and 2-of-2 on the GL. With Fred Taylor likely out for the year and Sammy Morris banged up, it looks as though the man they (read: Jets Fans) call "Belicheat" has decided to rely on Maroney in high leverage situations.

Maroney goes on a bye this week, but on the other side could prove to be valuable RB2 in the right matchups. He has a few other things working in his favor: the Patriots are in scoring situations A LOT, and he faces Buffalo and Jacksonville in the last 2 weeks of the fantasy playoffs. For a guy that's seen by many as a fringe Top 40ish RB, that is a ton of upside.

Austin Collie, Colts WR

I gave Collie some serious man love a few weeks ago, telling you to grab him going into the bye week. I got a little flak from e-mailers, but for those who listened, he's paying dividends. I think the Brandon Stokley comparison I brought up then still makes sense. While Collie isn't as likely to explode as other receivers, he is a better bet for a solid 7-10 points. Averaging 7 targets and 14 points over his last 3 games, Collie is quickly becoming a favorite Peyton Manning target, especially in the Red Zone.

Collie picked up 3 more RZ targets this week (with the other 2 going to Reggie Wayne), giving him 7 over the past 2 games. Now Collie is tied with Wayne at 9 RZ targets on the year and, un-ironically, is 2nd on the Colts with 4 receiving TDs to Wayne's 5. Manning's propensity for Collie in scoring situations is a very good sign for his owners, and should alert everyone else to pick him up. Owned in just 51% of ESPN leagues, Collie is worth grabbing in all formats. I would start him with confidence as a WR3.

Lee Evans, Bills WR

Evans has started to heat up these past 2 weeks. Is it a coincidence that he's started to turn it on as Ryan Fitzpatrick took over? Maybe. But regardless of what caused it, Evans has finally shown signs of life, and signs of perhaps even more. Previous to Week 6, Evans was being targeted with fewer than 6 passes per game; he's averaged 10 in his past 2. As Terrell Owens falls further into oblivion, Evans' stock should continue to rise.

Not only has he been Fitzgerald's favorite target, but he's been his go-to guy when it counts. Prior to Week 6, Evans hadn't been targeted with a single pass in a scoring situation. He's been thrown to 5 times in the past 2 games in the Red Zone. Owned in 79% of ESPN leagues, if someone dropped Evans, grab him quick. Otherwise, Evans is clearly trending up and is a player I would pursue VERY aggressively. Right now his market value seems to be that of a lower end WR3. But, I would contend that he is closer to being a low WR2 option with some excellent upside, especially considering his next 3 games (Hou, Ten, Jac) against teams that have had trouble defending the pass.

Chris Wells, Cardinals RB

Coming into Week 7, you would be hard pressed to find a rookie who has disappointed fantasy owners more than Beanie Wells. A 1st round pick out of Ohio State is supposed to take the starting RB job from a player like Tim Hightower (no offense Timothy) with ease. Wells really struggled out of the gate. Whether it was minor injuries or performance issues, he simply wasn't ready to play a big role for the Cards. That all changed against the New York Football Giants.

Not only did Wells get 14 carries (67 yards) to Hightower's 4 (9 yards), but Wells was the one the Cardinals handed the ball off to in scoring situations. Beanie got 6 of the 7 Arizona carries in the Red Zone. Now, he did get 1 of the 2 on the GL -- with the other one accounting Hightower's TD -- but the writing is on the wall for Wells. He's not just the back of the future, he's the back of the now.




Stock Down

Pierre Thomas, Saints RB

I really thought Thomas would be a quality RB this season, but the Saints have shown the willingness to use pretty much everyone in scoring situations. This week Mike Bell got 4 of the 5 carries in Red Zone, and both on the Goal Line. And while that may seem like grounds to put Bell in Stock Up, the Saints are just too unpredictable to rely on any offensive player aside from Marques Colston (who's 2nd behind Larry Fitzgerald in RZ Targets at 12). I believe Thomas has the ability to be a Top 10 back in this league, but as of right now, he just doesn't have the opportunities.

Can't We All Just Get Along?

Ronnie Brown vs. Ricky Williams, Dolphins RBs

Ricky was quite impressive this past week (thanks Dr. Obvious, in other news Adrian Peterson is pretty good), but I'm still a believer in Ronnie Brown. Brown still receives the vast majority of carries in and out of the scoring situations. Williams did get 2 GL carries this week, but only had 3 coming into the game. Now at 28% of GL carries for the year (26% RZ), it's clear the Dolphins prefer using the bigger back – Brown -- near the end zone.

I still think Williams will have value, but as a result of his lack of easy scoring chances I see him as a lower end RB2, not a RB1 as some have stated. Brown is still a Top 5 RB, and a must start RB1 each week.

Updated Red-Zone Statistics:

Player	Team	RZ Car	Team RZ	RZ%	GL Car	Team GL	GL %	TD	RZ tar	RZ Chances
Cedric Benson	Cincinnati Bengals	22	24	92	4	4	100	3	2	24
Maurice Jones-Drew	Jacksonville Jaguars	27	30	90	10	10	100	6	5	23
Steven Jackson	St. Louis Rams	14	16	88	3	3	100	0	1	15
Ryan Grant	Green Bay Packers	16	19	84	8	11	72	3	3	19
Matt Forte	Chicago Bears	24	29	83	7	8	88	0	3	27
Ladanian Tomlinson	San Diego Chargers	19	23	82	14	17	82	1	1	20
Clinton Portis	Washington Redskins	17	21	81	4	4	100	1	4	21
Kevin Smith	Detroit Lions	15	19	79	6	10	60	3	2	17
Michael Turner	Atlanta Falcons	17	22	77	8	8	100	5	0	17
Marshawn Lynch	Buffalo Bills	15	20	75	4	6	67	1	2	17
Frank Gore	San Francisco 49ers	5	7	72	1	1	100	1	1	6
Marion Barber	Dallas Cowboys	12	17	71	8	9	89	3	0	12
Lendale White	Tennesee Titans	6	9	67	2	2	100	1	0	6
Ronnie Brown	Miami Dolphins	33	50	66	12	18	67	6	1	34
Adrian Peterson	Minnesota Vikings	23	35	66	14	18	78	6	2	25
Willie Parker	Pittsburgh Steelers	8	13	62	2	3	67	0	1	9
Brandon Jacobs	New York Giants	21	35	60	6	8	75	2	4	25
Jamal Lewis	Cleveland Browns	13	22	59	6	8	75	0	0	16
LeSean McCoy	Philadelphia Eagles	7	12	58	3	5	60	1	1	15
Knowshon Moreno	Denver Broncos	16	28	57	3	7

Player	Team	RZ Targets	Team RZ	RZ%	TD
Larry Fitzgerald	Arizona Cardinals	13	30	43	3
Marques Colston	New Orleans Saints	12	39	31	5
Steve Smith	New York Giants	11	31	36	4
Greg Olsen	Chicago Bears	11	35	31	1
Chad Ochocinco	Cincinnati Bengals	11	36	31	5
Owen Daniels	Houston Texans	11	38	29	3
Andre Johnson	Houston Texans	10	38	26	3
Randy Moss	New England Patriots	10	46	22	2
Vernon Davis	San Francisco 49ers	9	17	53	5
Heath Miller	Pittsburgh Steelers	9	25	36	4
Reggie Wayne	Indianapolis Colts	9	31	29	5
Austin Collie	Indianapolis Colts	9	31	29	3
Dwayne Bowe	Kansas City Chiefs	9	35	26	3
Sidney Rice	Minnesota Vikings	9	36	25	1
Tony Gonzalez	Atlanta Falcons	8	23	35	2
Jhonny Knox	Chicago Bears	8	35	23	2
Visante Schiancoe	Minnesota Vikings	8	36	22	5
Wes Welker	New England Patriots	8	46	17	2
TJ Houshmandzadeh	Seattle Seahawks	8	29	28	1
Nate Washington	Tennesee Titans	8	14	57	3
Mark Clayton	Baltimore Ravens	7	25	28	1
Andre Caldwell	Cincinnati Bengals	7	36	19	2
Laveranues Coles	Cincinnati Bengals	7	36	19	2
Eddie Royal	Denver Broncos	7	26	27	0
Mike Sims-Walker	Jacksonville Jaguars	7	23	30	3
Anthony Fasano	Miami Dolphins	7	22	32	1
Bernard Berrian	Minnesota Vikings	7	36	19	1
Brent Celek	Philadelphia Eagles	7	25	28	1
Antonio Gates	San Diego Chargers	7	30	23	1
Roddy White	Atlanta Falcons	6	23	26	1
Devin Hester	Chicago Bears	6	35	17	1
Calvin Johnson	Detroit Lions	6	21	28	1
Jeremy Shockey	New Orleans Saints	6	39	15	2
Braylon Edwards	New York Jets	6	17	35	1
Jason Avant	Philadelphia Eagles	6	25	24	1
Nate Burleson	Seattle Seahawks	6	29	21	2
Anquan Boldin	Arizona Cardinals	5	30	17	1
Lee Evans	Buffalo Bills	5	22	21	1
Chris Henry	Cincinnati Bengals	5	36	14	2
Miles Austin	Dallas Cowboys	5	28	18	1
Roy Williams	Dallas Cowboys	5	28	18	1
Brandon Marshall	Denver Broncos	5	26	19	4
Donald Driver	Green Bay Packers	5	23	22	2
Bobby Wade	Kansas City Chiefs	5	35	14	2
Ben Watson	New England Patriots	5	46	11	2
Heath Evans	New Orleans Saints	5	39	13	1
Mario Mannigham	New York Giants	5	31	16	2
Vincent Jackson	San Diego Chargers	5	30	17	1
John Carlson	Seattle Seahawks	5	29	17	2
Randy McMichael	St. Louis Rams	5	26	20	0
Antonio Bryant	Tampa Bay Buccaneers	5	29	17	1
Kellen Winslow	Tampa Bay Buccaneers	5	29	17	3
Devin Thomas	Washington Redskins	5	29	17	1
Santana Moss	Washington Redskins	5	29	17	0

[Hache Man]

Studs, duds and sleepers: Colts' Collie to fill injury void


Matt Pitzer's look at the upcoming weekend's fantasy football landscape:
Studs

Austin Collie, WR, Indianapolis Colts. With four touchdowns in his past three games, Collie has turned into a virtual must-start. And even if Anthony Gonzalez returns, Collie still be a key player since No. 1 receiver Reggie Wayne is fighting a sore groin.
Braylon Edwards, WR, New York Jets. He's done little since his Jets debut (five catches, 64 yards, TD) against Miami in Week 5. After two games of notching a total of four receptions for 54 yards, he faces the Dolphins again. It's a big game for the Jets, so Edwards should be interested. The Dolphins might be starting two rookie cornerbacks.
Matt Forte, RB, Chicago Bears. As bad as he has been, Forte gets to play at home against the Cleveland Browns, who have been defenseless against the run, allowing 170.6 rushing yards a game, including 202 to the Green Bay Packers last week.
LeSean McCoy, RB, Philadelphia Eagles. With Brain Westbrook hurt again, he is in line for his most extensive work since posting 84 yards and a TD against the Kansas City Chiefs in Week 3. And the New York Giants have gone soft against the run, allowing 10 rushing TDs, tied for 28th in the NFL.
Aaron Rodgers, QB, Green Bay Packers. Think somebody might be peeved about the attention on Brett Favre returning to Green Bay? Rodgers threw for 384 yards and two TDs vs. the Minnesota Vikings this season, and the Packers offensive line is in better shape.
Duds
Matt Hasselbeck, QB, Seattle Seahawks. Pro Bowl offensive tackle Walter Jones is out for the season, and Hasselbeck's protection is suspect. Worse, the Dallas Cowboys found their pass rush last week with four sacks of the Atlanta Falcons' Matt Ryan.
Mario Manningham, WR, New York Giants. Manningham is at risk of becoming irrelevant with rookie Hakeem Nicks a threat to steal playing and quarterback Eli Manning's recent struggles.
Josh Morgan, WR, San Francisco 49ers. His playing time and role in the offense is uncertain after Michael Crabtree's strong debut and with how well TE Vernon Davis is playing. The 49ers no longer count on him for big plays.
Pierre Thomas, RB, New Orleans Saints. Facing the Falcons is not a problem; Thomas' playing time is. His touches dwindled to nine last week (from a season high of 23 in Week 4) as the Saints used Mike Bell as their hammer.
DeAngelo Williams, RB, Carolina Panthers. After three TDs in two games, Williams will have a quiet week. Arizona's defense leads the league in fewest rushing yards per carry and has not allowed a 100-yard rusher in 12 games.
Sleepers
Donnie Avery, WR, St. Louis Rams. You don't get to use St. Louis players, but here is a spot for Avery. The Lions are 30th against the pass and have given up 17 passing TDs, more than everybody but the Titans.
Correll Buckhalter, RB, Denver Broncos. After a bye week, Buckhalter should be recovered from his ankle injury, and the Baltimore Ravens run defense is hurting. Before its bye, Baltimore had allowed 309 rushing yards in its past two games.
San Diego Chargers defense. San Diego waxed the Chiefs on the road last week with a special teams TD, four sacks and three turnovers. The Oakland Raiders' offense is worse and coming to San Diego.
Percy Harvin, WR, Minnesota Vikings. If you had benched Harvin, it's time to go back to him since Bernard Berrian is hurt again. Favre will be eager to throw on Green Bay, making Harvin a good scoring threat.
Matthew Stafford, QB, Detroit Lions. The rookie might return after missing two games with a knee injury. St. Louis is giving up an average of 30.1 points per game and has surrendered 11 passing touchdowns.

[Hache Man]

A Detour on Route 36

Brian Westbrook isn't hurt again because he's old or has too much tread on his tires. This has nothing to do with him being "injury prone."

What happened to Westbrook Monday night was downright scary. While Westbrook was unconscious after taking a knee to the back of his head, Jason Avant prayed by his side and shed tears. Westbrook suffered the most severe grade of concussion and can't remember anything from the time the play was called until he woke up on the field.

Does that sound like a guy that is a "game-time decision" for this week, as Andy Reid said yesterday? Definitely not. We can proceed as if Westbrook won't play this week, especially after the Birds signed RB P.J. Hill off the Saints' practice squad yesterday. It would be medically irresponsible, according to the Eagles' former team trainer.

So the Eagles are almost certainly going to roll with LeSean "Shady" McCoy once again for a huge NFC East showdown with the Giants. McCoy was also the No. 1 back when Westbrook sat out in Week 3 against the Chiefs. In that game, McCoy rushed 20 times for 84 yards with a touchdown and added one catch for nine yards.

Of course, the Giants pose a much bigger threat than the Chiefs. But the Giants have been susceptible to the run this season, giving up 4.2 yards per carry and over 100 yards per game. Consider McCoy a RB2/strong flex play.

More importantly, what's Westbrook's long-term value? Will he ever be a feature back again? Probably not in the true sense of the word, but he is someone to consider buying low on. Very low. Westbrook is the No. 37 running back in fantasy right now and is hurt. He should be available for less than dirt.

Buy on the fact that LeSean McCoy is more than a little shaky on his blitz pickups, something that Westbrook excels at. Buy on Westbrook's public pleas for more snaps leading up to Week 7. Buy on the fact that when the Eagles are scratching and clawing for a playoff berth, Reid will go with the guy he trusts the most. In the midst of fantasy trading season, it's worth a shot.

Editor's Note: For rankings, complete projections, and a host of other exclusive material for Week 8, head to Rotoworld's Season Pass..

NEWS OF THE DAY #2
Titans coach Jeff Fisher is expected to finally name his starter for this week's game against Jacksonville after Thursday's practice. Woo hoo. The anticipation is killing me. Vince Young would be the sexy pick, but there's a reason he's been watching for the last 18 months. He's just not that good.

Young will be no better at getting the ball to his wideouts like Nate Washington and Justin Gage than Collins was. That said, sometimes a change is good. One of those times is when you're 0-6, as the Titans are.

NEWS OF THE DAY #3
The Larry Johnson saga continued as expected yesterday, with the running back getting suspended by the team for two weeks and rumors swirling that his career with the Chiefs (and maybe the NFL?) is over . Then it took a strange turn when L.J. decided to appeal the suspension. Why? Just take your medicine and move on. L.J. is a below average running back and a well below average human. He's lucky to still be on the roster.

Jamaal Charles will get his chance when the Chiefs come out of the their bye, although Kolby Smith (knee) is expected to be activated from the PUP list by then. Charles is a better bet than fellow hot pickup Shonn Greene, and don't forget that the Chiefs have a very favorable fantasy playoff schedule ( vs. Browns, at Bengals).

Editor's Note: For rankings, complete projections, and a host of other exclusive material for Week 8, head to Rotoworld's Season Pass..

INJURY QUICK SLANTS: RUNNING BACKS
Donald Brown (shoulder) missed practice and will almost certainly sit at least this week out. … Ahmad Bradshaw spent his Wednesday seeing a specialist about his foot instead of practicing. We're waiting to hear about the results.

INJURY QUICK SLANT: QUARTERBACKS:
Matthew Stafford (knee) practiced for the second straight day, although he was limited. He's sounding like a go. … Matt Hasselbeck's ribs are still bothering him and he sat out practice. He won't miss the game, but it's still telling that he can't get over that injury.

INJURY QUICK SLANTS: RECEIVERS AND TIGHT ENDS:
Andre Johnson (lung contusion) promised he will play this week even though he sat out practice. He's a real animal when it comes to injuries, don't bet against him. … Calvin Johnson (knee) sat out another practice and it's not looking good for this week. … Jerricho Cotchery (hamstring) declared himself ready to get back into games after going through a limited practice Wednesday. … Reggie Wayne (groin) didn't practice, but it was probably just a precaution. … David Clowney surprisingly popped up as missing practice with an ankle injury. His status is unknown. … Jermichael Finley (knee) did not practice Wednesday and will be a game-time decision. We're not expecting him to go. … Steve Breaston (knee) was limited in practice, just like he always is. He'll be fine. … Anthony Gonzalez (knee) didn't practice and almost certainly won't play this week. … Dante Rosario (knee) is in real danger of missing this week's game. … Bernard Berrian (hamstring) didn't practice and is looking like a game-time decision. … Muhsin Muhammad missed practice with a knee injury, but it's probably just an age injury. … DeSean Jackson (foot) sat out practice, but no one seems too concerned. He should be fine for Sunday.

DEPTH CHART QUICK SLANTS
Ahman Green has reportedly already passes Brandon Jackson as the Packers' No. 2 RB. … Jake Delhomme will remain the Panthers' starting QB this week. Interceptions are sure to follow. … Ted Ginn was "off to the side" at Dolphins practice and is looking like the Dolphins' No. 4 WR. … The Bucs admitted that Josh Freeman is over his listed playing weight by at least 12 pounds. … Braylon Edwards will not be suspended by the NFL for his role in punching LeBron James' friend.

[Hache Man]

Week 8 Rankings

When Ricky Williams started the second half of last week's game against the Saints, I started to wonder if he was becoming a problem for Ronnie Brown. Williams has 25 fewer touches on the season than Brown, but only 15 fewer yards from scrimmage. After last week's outburst, Williams has only one less touchdown.

Ultimately, comparing Brown to Williams is missing the point. Both players are ranked in the top eight running backs in fantasy points-per-game in standard league. This is especially insane because the Dolphins are 2-4! If they played with a bigger lead more often, what could these two runners do?

Williams is a small concern because he's surprising stealing receiving numbers from Brown. Perhaps it's the Wildcat effect, but Ronnie no longer is much of a factor catching passes despite all his skills. Miami has built a special running attack, with or without the Wildcat, and they will continue to play to their strengths the rest of the season.

One thing to watch for this week is how the Jets defend them. The Saints did a better job than any team all season against the Wildcat – by far – by blitzing their cornerbacks. The Dolphins averaged 7.1 yards per play from the formation before facing New Orleans, but the Saints held them to 27 yards on 14 plays by blitzing their cornerbacks. They were the aggressors, and that's a recipe Rex Ryan and possibly Bill Belichick will try to reproduce.

Until proven otherwise, however, the Dolphins have the nastiest running game in the league. It's good enough for Ronnie Brown to have a career year, and still have enough left over for Ricky Williams to be a quality RB2/flex the rest of the way.

Week 8 Quarterbacks

Rank	Player Name	Opponent	Notes
1	Peyton Manning	vs. SF	-
2	Drew Brees	vs. ATL	-
3	Philip Rivers	vs. OAK	-
4	Aaron Rodgers	vs. MIN	Probable(foot)
5	Matt Schaub	at BUF	-
6	Tony Romo	vs. SEA	-
7	Jay Cutler	vs. CLE	-
8	Kurt Warner	vs. CAR	-
9	Matt Ryan	at NO	-
10	Joe Flacco	vs. DEN	Probable(ankle)
11	Brett Favre	at GB	Probable(hip)
12	Donovan McNabb	vs. NYG	-
13	David Garrard	at TEN	-
14	Eli Manning	at PHI	-
15	Kyle Orton	at BAL	-
16	Matt Hasselbeck	at DAL
17	Matthew Stafford	vs. STL	Questionable(knee)
18	Marc Bulger	at DET	-
19	Chad Henne	at NYJ	-
20	Alex Smith	at IND	-
21	Mark Sanchez	vs. MIA	-
22	Jake Delhomme	at ARZ	-
23	Kerry Collins	vs. JAC	-
24	Derek Anderson	at CHI
25	Ryan Fitzpatrick	vs. HOU	-
26	JaMarcus Russell	at SD	-

QB Notes: I still worry about the offensive line plenty, but Aaron Rodgers is playing at an insane level right now. Okay, so last two opponents were Detroit and Cleveland. But his 9.2 yards-per-attempt average on the season is not a misprint, and he had a fine fantasy day against the Vikings last time around. Playing on grass should help his protection. As excellent as Brett Favre is playing, Rodgers should easily outshine him Sunday. … Derek Anderson makes some decisions and throws that are beyond brutal. He can also "spin it" a few times a game like a star. But Cleveland's receivers are so bad, it's hard to even fully blame him. Mohammad Massaquoi is the only one that can get separation. Players are not open. When you are counting on an extremely raw and drop-prone rookie (Mohammad Massaquoi) to carry a group, good things won't happen.

Donovan McNabb's play has been uneven the last two weeks, but spurts of inaccuracy are nothing new from him. He still throws one of the prettiest deep balls around. In a negative matchup like this week against the Giants, he's a borderline play. … The Browns get no pass rush, and pass protection hasn't really been the problem for Chicago's terrible offensive line anyway. The Bears should be primed to put a beatdown on Cleveland, and they aren't going to do it on the ground. … As inconsistent as Tony Romo has been this season, his stats are where you'd expect them to be. His YPA is above his career. Miles Austin's emergence changes the Dallas offense, making Romo an easy top-eight play in a plus matchup like the one this week against Seattle.

Buffalo's pass defense is the best part of the whole team or Matt Schaub would be ranked even higher. … Jacksonville's passing attack is acceptable this season with Mike Sims-Walker and Torry Holt. In a great matchup against Tennessee, David Garrard should have a solid afternoon. … Matt Hasselbeck owners should watch this week closely. His offensive line gave him no chance last time out against Arizona. They have had a bye week to prepare for Dallas' improving attack. Another ugly outing will be a sign that a long season is on the way. …The Broncos defense hasn't faced a line as physical as Baltimore. With Jared Gaither back at left tackle, Joe Flacco should be fine. … You could do worse than Marc Bulger against the Lions. Or Matthew Stafford against the Rams, assuming Stafford plays.

Mark Sanchez is playing like a rookie quarterback again, which was to be expected. His deep ball and willingness to throw it at the right moments is perhaps his most surprising trait, but otherwise he's just trying to survive. You should be able to do better at QB2. … Alex Smith looked fantastic in relief of Shaun Hill, but that was against the Texans. If he can sustain drives against the Colts, we'll know he has staying power. The other offensive issues in San Francisco aren't going away, so don't expect miracles. But I'd place him towards the bottom of the top-20 quarterbacks moving forward, somewhere near Chad Henne. … For the six people curious, Bruce Gradkowski was not any better than JaMarcus Russell in his relief stint.

Editor's Note: Check out our exclusive projections for all the players listed here in Rotworld's Season Pass package, now 33% off. We've also got extra columns, IDP rankings, Top 200 rankings, Evan Silva's running back report, advance workload and target data, exclusive chats, schedule analysis, and fantasy points allowed info you can only get with Season Pass.


Week 7 Running Backs

Rank	Player Name	Opponent	Notes
1	Adrian Peterson	at GB
2	Maurice Jones-Drew	at TEN	-
3	Chris Johnson	vs. JAC	-
4	Steven Jackson	at DET	-
5	Ray Rice	vs. DEN	-
6	Steve Slaton	at BUF	-
7	Ronnie Brown	at NYJ	-
8	Frank Gore	at IND	-
9	Marion Barber	vs. SEA
10	DeAngelo Williams	at ARZ	-
11	Matt Forte	vs. CLE	-
12	Marshawn Lynch	vs. HOU	-
13	Michael Turner	at NO
14	Joseph Addai	vs. SF	-
15	Kevin Smith	vs. STL	-
16	Thomas Jones	vs. MIA	-
17	Pierre Thomas	vs. ATL	-
18	LaDainian Tomlinson	vs. OAK	Probable(illness)
19	Chris Wells	vs. CAR	Making moves
20	Brandon Jacobs	at PHI	-
21	Ryan Grant	vs. MIN	-
22	Darren Sproles	vs. OAK	-
23	Knowshon Moreno	at BAL	-
24	Ricky Williams	at NYJ
25	LeSean McCoy	vs. NYG	-
26	Tim Hightower	vs. CAR	-
27	Mike Bell	vs. ATL	-
28	Jonathan Stewart	at ARZ	Questionable(heel)
29	Fred Jackson	vs. HOU	-
30	Felix Jones	vs. SEA	-
31	Ahmad Bradshaw	at PHI
32	Shonn Greene	vs. MIA	-
33	Justin Fargas	at SD	-
34	Julius Jones	at DAL	-
35	Reggie Bush	vs. ATL	-
36	Jamal Lewis	at CHI	Probable(wrist)
37	Correll Buckhalter	at BAL	-
38	Tashard Choice	vs. SEA	-
39	Willis McGahee	vs. DEN	-
40	Michael Bush	at SD	-
41	LenDale White	vs. JAC	Questionable(knee)
42	Jerome Harrison	at CHI	-
43	Glen Coffee	at IND	-
44	Jason Snelling	at NO	-
45	Brandon Jackson	vs. MIN	-
46	Chris Brown	at BUF	-
47	Chester Taylor	at GB	-
48	Justin Forsett	at DAL	-
49	Rashad Jennings	at TEN	-

RB Notes: The Saints are using a unique rotation between Pierre Thomas and Mike Bell. Bell played a few snaps in the first half last week, bust most of the second half to give the team fresh legs. He's not a big guy, but he runs as violently as any back in football. Thomas is the more complete player, but the rotation will limit the damage Thomas can do in difficult matchups. Atlanta isn't so tough, so we'd still play Pierre as a RB2 this week. (The Saints also played Devery Henderson primarily in the second half, using the fresh legs theory as well.) … Matt Forte has been frustrating, but you can't sit him against the Browns. … With Donald Brown likely out, Joseph Addai is an easy start against San Francisco. The 49ers haven't been as frightening on defense in recent weeks. … A matchup against Carolina's soft front seven and the chance Arizona will be playing with a lead makes Beanie Wells a nice RB2 option.

It's not like Michael Bush hasn't had chances. The Raiders started him in both halves last week against the Jets. But the big man needs big holes to run through, and he's not getting them. The Bush from Week 17 last season is nowhere to be found. Justin Fargas somehow always finds a lane, and provides a spark. Fargas has topped 90 total yards two straight weeks and is the better play against a weak San Diego rush defense. … I guess those aren't popcorn muscles on Thomas Jones. While other runners fall off after 30, there is no discernible difference in Jones' play. His carries won't skyrocket with Leon Washington hurt, but his receptions will climb. Shonn Greene will be a capable committee partner and could steal some touchdowns, but the rookie will have to prove he can protect and be a factor as a receiver. This is where Jones' all-around play will come in handy. New York's run blocking is coming together, but they face a much tougher matchup this week against Miami.

LeSean McCoy will start and get all the carries, but the Eagles won't try to beat Philadelphia on the ground. … Fred Jackson was a non-factor last week, but the Bills barely had the ball. Against the Texans defense, he's still a flex option. … Ryan Grant finally had a decent day against the Browns, but he still wasn't overly impressive. He had big holes to run through early and doesn't make anyone miss in the secondary. The Packers struggled to get a yard against the Browns in short-yardage, so Grant will have tough sledding against the Vikings, even though he's historically played well against them. (I hate historical stats against certain teams. Too many changes every year to draw much meaning from them.) … The matchup and nagging injury concerns make Ahmad Bradshaw someone to stay away from if possible this week.


Week 8 Wide Receivers

Rank	Player Name	Opponent	Notes
1	Andre Johnson	at BUF	Questionable(chest)
2	Vincent Jackson	vs. OAK	-
3	Reggie Wayne	vs. SF	Probable(groin)
4	Larry Fitzgerald	vs. CAR	-
5	Marques Colston	vs. ATL	-
6	Roddy White	at NO	-
7	Calvin Johnson	vs. STL	Questionable(knee)
8	DeSean Jackson	vs. NYG
9	Brandon Marshall	at BAL	-
10	Mike Sims-Walker	at TEN	-
11	Miles Austin	vs. SEA	-
12	Greg Jennings	vs. MIN	Probable(hip)
13	Donald Driver	vs. MIN	-
14	Anquan Boldin	vs. CAR
15	Steve Smith	at ARZ	-
16	Steve Smith	at PHI	-
17	Sidney Rice	at GB	-
18	Derrick Mason	vs. DEN	-
19	Devin Hester	vs. CLE	-
20	Nate Burleson	at DAL	-
21	T.J. Houshmandzadeh	at DAL	-
22	Mario Manningham	at PHI	Probable(back)
23	Mohamed Massaquoi	at CHI	-
24	Kevin Walter	at BUF	-
25	Steve Breaston	vs. CAR	Probable(knee)
26	Lee Evans	vs. HOU	-
27	Hakeem Nicks	at PHI	-
28	Michael Crabtree	at IND	-
29	Torry Holt	at TEN	-
30	Percy Harvin	at GB	-
31	Jeremy Maclin	vs. NYG
32	Lance Moore	vs. ATL	-
33	Johnny Knox	vs. CLE	-
34	Braylon Edwards	vs. MIA
35	Donnie Avery	at DET
36	Earl Bennett	vs. CLE	-
37	Austin Collie	vs. SF	-
38	Eddie Royal	at BAL	-
39	Pierre Garcon	vs. SF	-
40	Devery Henderson	vs. ATL	-
41	Terrell Owens	vs. HOU	-
42	Bernard Berrian	at GB
43	Mark Clayton	vs. DEN	-
44	Roy Williams	vs. SEA
45	Kenny Britt	vs. JAC	-
46	Patrick Crayton	vs. SEA	-
47	Nate Washington	vs. JAC	-
48	James Jones	vs. MIN	-
49	Ted Ginn Jr.	at NYJ	-
50	Davone Bess	at NYJ	-
51	Josh Morgan	at IND	-
52	Dennis Northcutt	vs. STL	-
53	Jabar Gaffney	at BAL	-
54	Greg Camarillo	at NYJ	-
55	Justin Gage	vs. JAC	-
56	Isaac Bruce	at IND	-
57	Deion Branch	at DAL	-

WR Notes: New Orleans' comeback wouldn't have happened last week without Davone Bess' fumble, but Ted Ginn's long stretch of drops and mental errors has him in the doghouse. He's not worth holding on to. Bess, Brian Hartline, and Greg Camarillo will all likely get roughly equal time, even if Camarillo is coming off the bench. I still love what I'm seeing in Chad Henne, but the Dolphins don't have a vertical presence and Miami's still a running team. It seems unlikely any of the 'Phins will be consistent enough to use regularly. … Marques Colston could have had four touchdowns last week if things had happened just a little differently. Drew Brees loves throwing to him in the red zone and the Saints get plenty of chances. Colston would be my choice to lead wideouts in scores this season.

Terrell Owens may be able to out-produce Roy Williams, but not Lee Evans. The last two weeks should be a reminder for the Bills that Evans is easily the superior talent at this stage of their careers. Ryan Fitzpatrick hasn't been playing well, but a game against the Texans gives Evans a good chance for a third straight big week. … The longevity shown by Hines Ward and Donald Driver is one of the most remarkable trends of the year. Throw in Mason, and there were a lot of undervalued boring old veterans taken as WR3s that are far exceeding their draft slot.

The new Lance Moore isn't an every-week star like last season. Some days, he'll give up targets to Devery Henderson, Jeremy Shockey, and Reggie Bush. There are just too many quality options in New Orleans. But Moore will still have enough up weeks and 4 for 50's to be a solid WR3 in PPR leagues the rest of the way. … I mentioned Massaquoi above. He's getting enough opportunities that there should be another few big weeks, but the Browns passing attack won't allow it to be consistent. Imagine Vincent Jackson or Brandon Marshall trying to carry their teams as rookies. Massaquoi isn't quite at their level of pure physical talent, but he's closer than you think and a great dynasty guy to own. For later.

Derrick Mason has gained 88 yards in three of his last four games. He's too steady to sit, even against a quality matchup like the Broncos. … I'm still curious if Mason's teammate Mark Clayton can put something together this season. He gets his fair share of opportunities and he's the closest thing the Ravens have to a vertical threat. Clayton has five plays over 20 yards in six games. That doesn't sound crazy, but there are a few quarterbacks (Marc Bulger, Matt Hasselbeck) who only have one or two more. … I'm going to keep saying to remain patient with Greg Jennings until I see something different from the Packers attack. He's been very close to big plays a few times and still has his usual speed. Jennings might not have the same skills as a Roddy White/Reggie Wayne-type number one receiver, but he's not far off.

Note: Not happy with your fantasy teams? New weekly leagues are drafting every single day at Snapdraft. Draft your team during the week, even Sunday morning, and win cash by Tuesday. It's a great complement to your yearly leagues and rewards the most skilled fantasy players who know matchups and value.


Week 8 Tight Ends

Rank	Player Name	Opponent	Notes
1	Antonio Gates	vs. OAK	-
2	Dallas Clark	vs. SF	-
3	Owen Daniels	at BUF	-
4	Jason Witten	vs. SEA	-
5	Tony Gonzalez	at NO	-
6	Vernon Davis	at IND	-
7	Brent Celek	vs. NYG	-
8	Jeremy Shockey	vs. ATL	Probable(shoulder)
9	Greg Olsen	vs. CLE	-
10	John Carlson	at DAL	-
11	Zach Miller	at SD	-
12	Visanthe Shiancoe	at GB	-
13	Todd Heap	vs. DEN	-
14	Dustin Keller	vs. MIA	-
15	Tony Scheffler	at BAL	-
16	Marcedes Lewis	at TEN	-
17	Kevin Boss	at PHI	-
18	Brandon Pettigrew	vs. STL	-
19	Anthony Fasano	at NYJ	-
20	Donald Lee	vs. MIN	-
21	Randy McMichael	at DET	-

TE Notes: Donald Lee is a fine emergency pickup this week if you need help. The Vikings have struggled against tight ends all year, and Jermichael Finley is out. … Gibril Wilson, Yeremiah Bell, and the Miami linebackers have also struggled with tight ends, although they have faced many of the best. Could this finally be the game for Dustin Keller? It's hard to have much faith if you have another halfway decent option, and most teams do. In the two leagues I drafted Keller, I took Mr. Silva's boy Vernon Davis too as a backup. Now Keller is planted on the bench. Hanging on to two tight ends is not a favorite strategy of mine, but it's important this year to get points at the position because practically everyone else is too. … Davis should get a small boost from Alex Smith because I expect the 49ers pass attack to be more aggressive.

Owen Daniels is a good reminder that a lack of touchdowns is often a lack of luck. He's always had great hands and been able to make catches in traffic. Houston's red zone offense is a little more effective this year, and he's a little luckier and now he's tied his career high with five touchdowns in Week 8. And even though this is Daniels' breakout year, he was over 750 yards the last two and there was no reason to think Houston's offense would decline this time around. I still trust yards and receptions over scores in the long run, especially with so many PPR leagues.

Week 8 Team Defense

Rank	Player Name	Opponent	Notes
1	Chargers Def/Spec Team	vs. OAK	-
2	Bears Def/Spec Team	vs. CLE	-
3	Jets Def/Spec Team	vs. MIA	-
4	Cardinals Def/Spec Team	vs. CAR	-
5	Vikings Def/Spec Team	at GB	-
6	Colts Def/Spec Team	vs. SF	-
7	Cowboys Def/Spec Team	vs. SEA	-
8	Eagles Def/Spec Team	vs. NYG	-
9	Broncos Def/Spec Team	at BAL	-
10	Giants Def/Spec Team	at PHI	-
11	Texans Def/Spec Team	at BUF	-
12	Ravens Def/Spec Team	vs. DEN	-
13	Saints Def/Spec Team	vs. ATL	-
14	Jaguars Def/Spec Team	at TEN	-
15	Dolphins Def/Spec Team	at NYJ	-
16	Packers Def/Spec Team	vs. MIN	-
17	Bills Def/Spec Team	vs. HOU	-
18	Rams Def/Spec Team	at DET	-
19	Fortyniners Def/Spec Team	at IND	-
20	Lions Def/Spec Team	vs. STL	-
21	Falcons Def/Spec Team	at NO	-
22	Seahawks Def/Spec Team	at DAL	-
23	Titans Def/Spec Team	vs. JAC	-
24	Browns Def/Spec Team	at CHI	-
25	Panthers Def/Spec Team	at ARZ	-
26	Raiders Def/Spec Team	at SD	-

Week 8 Kickers

Rank	Player Name	Opponent	Notes
1	Lawrence Tynes	at PHI	-
2	Neil Rackers	vs. CAR	-
3	Mason Crosby	vs. MIN	-
4	Ryan Longwell	at GB	-
5	Nate Kaeding	vs. OAK	-
6	Nick Folk	vs. SEA	-
7	Matt Prater	at BAL	-
8	John Carney	vs. ATL	-
9	David Akers	vs. NYG	-
10	Josh Scobee	at TEN	-
11	Rob Bironas	vs. JAC	-
12	Robbie Gould	vs. CLE	-
13	Kris Brown	at BUF	Probable(left ankle)
14	Matt Stover	vs. SF	-
15	Dan Carpenter	at NYJ	-
16	Jay Feely	vs. MIA	-
17	Jason Hanson	vs. STL	-
18	Steven Hauschka	vs. DEN	-
19	Olindo Mare	at DAL	-
20	Joe Nedney	at IND	-
21	Jason Elam	at NO	-
22	Rian Lindell	vs. HOU	-
23	Phil Dawson	at CHI
24	Sebastian Janikowski	at SD	-
25	Josh Brown	at DET	-
26	John Kasay	at ARZ	-

[Hache Man]

Value Meter: Favre, Rodgers top 10 plays; Jackson primed to score





Here is Matt Pitzer's updated Value Meter for Week 8. Expect balls to fly when Minnesota visits Green Bay.

Brett Favre comes in third at quarterback while his Packer replacement, Aaron Rodgers is slotted sixth. At running back, Rams running back Steven Jackson may have his best chance of the season to score playing in Detroit.
Remember, Cincinnati, Kansas City, New England, Pittsburgh, Tampa Bay and Washington have bye weeks.
Now that you know what Matt is thinking, draft a team in 15 minutes and play him and others in RapidDraft. You could win $50,000. Click here for the latest player notes and the inactives on game days. Also, if you have any last minute questions, Matt will chat in Fantasy Joe on Sunday 11:45 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. ET. Good luck.
* Check status
Quarterbacks

01.	Peyton Manning, Ind.	vs. S.F.
02.	Drew Brees, N.O.	vs. Atl.
03.	Brett Favre, Min.	at G.B.
04.	Jay Cutler, Chi.	vs. Cle.
05.	Eli Manning, N.Y.-G	at Phi.
06.	Aaron Rodgers, G.B.	vs. Min.
07.	Philip Rivers, S.D.	vs. Oak.
08.	Matt Schaub, Hou.	at Buf.
09.	Matt Ryan, Atl.	at N.O.
10.	Tony Romo, Dal.	vs. Sea.
11.	Donovan McNabb, Phi.	vs. N.Y.-G.
12.	Matt Hasselbeck, Sea.	at Dal.
13.	Kurt Warner, Ari.	vs. Car.
14.	Kyle Orton, Den.	at Bal.
15.	Joe Flacco, Bal.	vs. Den.
16.	David Garrard, Jac	at Ten.
17.	Matthew Stafford, Det.	vs. St.L.
18.	Marc Bulger, St.L.	at Det.
19.	Alex Smith, S.F.	at Ind.
20.	Mark Sanchez, N.Y.-J	at Mia
21.	Jake Delhomme, Car.	at Ari.
22.	Chad Henne, Mia.	at N.Y.-J
23.	Ryan Fitzpatrick, Buf.	vs. Hou..
24.	Kerry Collins, Ten.	vs. Jac..
25.	JaMarcus Russell, Oak.	at S.D.

Running backs

01.	Adrian Peterson, Min.	at G.B.
02.	Ronnie Brown, Mia.	at N.Y.-J
03.	Steven Jackson, St.L.	at Det.
04.	Steve Slaton, Hou.	at Buf.
05.	Frank Gore, S.F.	at Ind.
06.	Chris Johnson, Ten.	vs. Jac.
07.	Kevin Smith, Det.	vs. St.L.
08.	Maurice Jones-Drew, Jac.	at Ten.
09.	Michael Turner, Atl.	at N.O.
10.	Matt Forte, Chi.	vs. Cle.
11.	Marshawn Lynch, Buf.	vs. Hou.
12.	DeAngelo Williams, Car	at Ari.
13.	Ray Rice, Bal.	vs. Den.
14.	Joseph Addai, Ind.	vs. S.F.
15.	*Brian Westbrook, Phi.	vs. N.Y.-G.
16.	Marion Barber III, Dal.	vs. Sea.
17.	LaDainian Tomlinson, S.D.	vs. Oak.
18.	Ryan Grant, G.B.	vs. Min.
19.	Thomas Jones, N.Y.-J	vs. Mia.
20.	Ahmad Bradshaw, N.Y.-G	at Phi.
21.	Correll Buckhalter, Den.	at Bal.
22.	Brandon Jacobs, N.Y.-G	at Phi.
23.	Ricky Williams, Mia.	at N.Y.-J
24.	Pierre Thomas, N.O.	vs. Atl.
25.	Chris Wells, Ari.	vs. Car.
26.	Reggie Bush, N.O.	vs. Atl.
27.	Julius Jones, Sea.	at Dal.
28.	Fred Jackson, Buf.	vs. Hou.
29.	Tim Hightower, Ari.	vs. Car.
30.	Mike Bell, N.O.	vs. Atl.
31.	Jamal Lewis, Cle.	at Chi.
32.	LenDale White, Ten.	vs. Jac.
33.	Justin Fargas, Oak.	at S.D.
34.	Knowshon Moreno, Den.	at Bal.
35.	Jonathan Stewart, Car.	at Ari.
36.	Felix Jones, Dal.	vs. Sea.
37.	Shonn Greene, N.Y.-J	vs. Mia.
38.	*Donald Brown, Ind.	vs. S.F.
39.	Willis McGahee, Bal.	vs. Den.
40.	Darren Sproles, S.D.	vs. Oak.
41.	LeSean McCoy, Phi.	vs. N.Y.-G.
42.	Chris Brown, Hou.	at Buf.
43.	Justin Forsett, Sea.	at Dal.
44.	Michael Bush, Oak.	at S.D.
45.	Chester Taylor, Min.	at G.B.
46.	Jerome Harrison, Cle.	at Chi.
47.	Tashard Choice, Dal.	vs. Sea.
48.	Ahman Green, G.B.	vs. Min.
49.	Glen Coffee, S.F.	at Ind.
50.	Le'Ron McClain, Bal.	vs. Den.

Wide receivers

01.	*Andre Johnson, Hou.	at Buf.
02.	Larry Fitzgerald, Ari.	vs. Car.
03.	*Reggie Wayne, Ind.	vs. S.F.
04.	Marques Colston, N.O.	vs. Atl.
05.	Vincent Jackson, S.D.	vs. Oak.
06.	*Calvin Johnson, Det.	vs. St.L.
07.	Roddy White, Atl.	at N.O.
08.	Donald Driver, G.B.	vs. Min.
09.	Steve Smith, Car.	at Ari.
10.	DeSean Jackson, Phi.	vs. N.Y.-G.
11.	T.J. Houshmandzadeh, Sea.	at Dal.
12.	Mike Sims-Walker, Jac.	at Ten.
13.	Miles Austin, Dal.	vs. Sea.
14.	Steve Smith, N.Y.-G	at Phi.
15.	Greg Jennings, G.B.	vs. Min.
16.	Nate Burleson, Sea.	at Dal.
17.	Brandon Marshall, Den.	at Bal.
18.	Anquan Boldin, Ari.	vs. Car.
19.	Austin Collie, Ind.	vs. S.F.
20.	Sidney Rice, Min.	at G.B.
21.	Derrick Mason, Bal.	vs. Den.
22.	Braylon Edwards, N.Y.-J	at Mia
23.	Torry Holt, Jac.	at Ten.
24.	Pierre Garcon, Ind.	vs. S.F.
25.	Donnie Avery, St.L.	at Det.
26.	Hakeem Nicks, N.Y.-G	at Phi.
27.	Jeremy Maclin, Phi.	vs. N.Y.-G.
28.	Michael Crabtree, S.F.	at Ind.
29.	Johnny Knox, Chi.	vs. Cle.
30.	Lance Moore, N.O.	vs. Atl.
31.	Steve Breaston, Ari.	vs. Car.
32.	Mario Manningham, N.Y.-G	at Phi.
33.	Terrell Owens, Buf.	vs. Hou..
34.	*Jerricho Cotchery, N.Y.-J	at Mia
35.	Roy Williams, Dal.	vs. Sea.
36.	Devin Hester, Chi.	vs. Cle.
37.	Josh Morgan, S.F.	at Ind.
38.	Bryant Johnson, Det.	vs. St.L.
39.	Kevin Walter, Hou.	at Buf.
40.	*Percy Harvin, Min.	at G.B.
41.	Lee Evans, Buf.	vs. Hou..
42.	Nate Washington, Ten.	vs. Jac..
43.	Mohamed Massaquoi, Cle.	-at Chi.
44.	*Anthony Gonzalez, Ind.	vs. S.F.
45.	Jabar Gaffney, Den.	at Bal.
46.	*Chaz Schilens, Oak.	at S.D.
47.	Davone Bess, Mia.	at N.Y.-J
48.	Muhsin Muhammad, Car.	at Ari.
49.	Earl Bennett, Chi.	vs. Cle.
50.	Brian Hartline, Mia.	at N.Y.-J

Tight ends

01.	Dallas Clark, Ind.	vs. S.F.
02.	Owen Daniels, Hou.	at Buf.
03.	Tony Gonzalez, Atl.	at N.O.
04.	Antonio Gates, S.D.	vs. Oak.
05.	Jason Witten, Dal.	vs. Sea.
06.	Vernon Davis, S.F.	at Ind.
07.	Brent Celek, Phi.	vs. N.Y.-G.
08.	Greg Olsen, Chi.	vs. Cle.
09.	Visanthe Shiancoe, Min.	at G.B.
10.	Jeremy Shockey, N.O.	vs. Atl.
11.	Tony Scheffler, Den.	at Bal.
12.	John Carlson, Sea.	at Dal.
13.	Brandon Pettigrew, Det.	vs. St.L.
14.	Zach Miller, Oak.	at S.D.
15.	Todd Heap, Bal.	vs. Den.
16.	Marcedes Lewis, Jac.	at Ten.
17.	*Kevin Boss, N.Y.-G	at Phi.
18.	Bo Scaife, Ten.	vs. Jac..
19.	Donald Lee, G.B.	vs. Min.
20.	Dustin Keller, N.Y.-J	at Mia
21.	Daniel Fells, St.L.	at Det.
22.	Anthony Fasano, Mia.	at N.Y.-J
23.	Randy McMichael, St.L.	at Det.
24.	Alge Crumpler, Ten.	vs. Jac..
25.	Dante Rosario, Car.	at Ari.

Kickers

01.	Lawrence Tynes, N.Y.-G	at Phi.
02.	Ryan Longwell, Min.	at G.B.
03.	Matt Prater, Den.	at Bal.
04.	Nate Kaeding, S.D.	vs. Oak.
05.	John Carney, N.O.	vs. Atl.
06.	Jay Feely, N.Y.-J	at Mia
07.	Steven Hauschka, Bal.	vs. Den.
08.	David Akers, Phi.	vs. N.Y.-G.
09.	Mason Crosby, G.B.	vs. Min.
10.	Matt Stover, Ind.	vs. S.F.
11.	Robbie Gould, Chi.	vs. Cle.
12.	Nick Folk, Dal.	vs. Sea.
13.	Joe Nedney, S.F.	at Ind.
14.	Dan Carpenter, Mia.	at N.Y.-J
15.	Jason Elam, Atl.	at N.O.
16.	Josh Scobee, Jac.	at Ten.
17.	Jason Hanson, Det.	vs. St.L.
18.	Neil Rackers, Ari.	vs. Car.
19.	Kris Brown, Hou.	at Buf.
20.	Olindo Mare, Sea.	at Dal.
21.	Josh Brown, St.L.	at Det.
22.	Sebastian Janikowski, Oak.	at S.D.
23.	John Kasay, Car.	at Ari.
24.	Rian Lindell, Buf.	vs. Hou..
25.	Rob Bironas, Ten.	vs. Jac..

Defenses

01.	Chicago	vs. Cle.
02.	Denver	at Bal.
03.	New Orleans	vs. Atl.
04.	Minnesota	at G.B.
05.	San Diego	at Oak.
06.	New York Giants	at Phi.
07.	Baltimore	vs. Den
08.	Indianapolis	vs. Ind.
09.	New York Jets	vs. Mia
10.	Philadelphia	vs. N.Y.-G
11.	Miami	at N.Y.-J
12.	Arizona	vs. Car.
13.	Green Bay	vs. Min
14.	Dallas	vs. Sea.
15.	Jacksonville	at Ten.
16.	Detroit	vs. St.L
17.	Buffalo	at Hou.
18.	Tennessee	vs. Jac.
19.	Atlanta	at N.O.
20.	San Francisco	at Ind.
21.	Cleveland	at Chi.
22.	Seattle	at Dal.
23.	Oakland	at S.D.
24.	St. Louis	at Det.
25.	Houston	at Buf.

[Hache Man]

Back to the Future


Lone star loving Titans owner Bud Adams handpicked Vince Young as the No. 3 overall selection in the 2006 draft, allegedly against the vehement protestations of coach Jeff Fisher. Now Fisher's hand is being forced again at the behest of Adams. It speaks volumes that Fisher was still reluctant to hand over the offense to Young with an 0-6 record and a flailing 36-year-old quarterback.

Fisher, dead man walking with a desperate need for a change of scenery, finally picked up his dragging feet and announced the quarterback change Thursday. Make no mistake, Young has a lot going against him in the second half of the season. Locker room troubles follow him like a black cloud after he quit on the team early last season. Worse, his head coach has clearly lost all confidence in him as a leader – and possibly as a passer.

The flipside, however, is that the Titans had no reasonable choice but to bench Kerry Collins in a lost season. Ludicrously lauded as an MVP candidate by the talking heads last season, he's been given a free pass again this year as analysts continue to point fingers elsewhere instead. Over the past two seasons, Collins has managed a 57.2 completion percentage and a feeble 6.0 yards per attempt – often against defenses stacking the box with eight and even nine defenders in an effort to stop Chris Johnson. Those numbers are poor enough to get any quarterback not named JaMarcus Russell fired.

All things considered, it's time for the VY question to be answered once and for all in Tennessee. Collins certainly isn't going to lead the next Titans playoff contender. More importantly, Adams has to decide whether to keep Young around with a $14 million cap number next season or swing for the franchise quarterback fences with another high draft pick.

With upcoming games against the Jaguars, 49ers, and Bills, Young has a decent shot to hit the ground running in his second stint as a starter. As Evan Silva points out in his in-depth "Matchups" analysis this week, owners of Tom Brady, Ben Roethlisberger, and Carson Palmer should seriously consider rolling the dice with Young against Jacksonville's overly generous secondary.

Editor's Note: Check out our exclusive projections for all the players listed here in Rotoworld's Season Pass package, now 33% off. We've also got extra columns, IDP rankings, Top 200 rankings, Evan Silva's running back report, Chris Wesseling's Dynasty advice, advance workload and target data, exclusive chats, schedule analysis, and fantasy points allowed info you can only get with Season Pass.

Larry Johnson and the Chiefs are working on a settlement that would decide Johnson's future in Kansas City. The Chiefs have reportedly decided against releasing LJ in the near future, as it would set a precedent for other players to push their way off the roster with similar tactics. Instead, it's expected that Johnson will be sent to "football purgatory" as a non-participating member of the Chiefs roster for the rest of the season. There's no reason to hold a roster spot for him in redraft leagues.

After being held out of practice again Thursday, Brian Westbrook (concussion) will resume aerobic workouts on Friday. Despite the Reid's continued insistence that Westbrook will be a game-time decision, the chances of him playing are remote. The Eagles' own team doctor has strongly advised keeping him out for at least another week. Expect LeSean McCoy to get the majority of the backfield touches against the Giants in a game that will be pass-heavy for Philly.

Ahmad Bradshaw (ankle) missed practice but was at the Giants practice facility Thursday after a visit with an orthopedic specialist revealed a cracked fifth metatarsal on the outside of his foot. While he's expected to play through the injury, Bradshaw is taking a risk because he's one faulty step from breaking it all the way. As it is now, he'll still need surgery in the offseason. Dr. Robert Anderson agreed with the Giants' plan to rest during the week and play on Sundays, so Bradshaw will continue to share carries with Brandon Jacobs.

Matthew Stafford (knee) and Calvin Johnson both practiced in a limited fashion Thursday. It's an encouraging sign for Stafford that he's yet to have a setback after the early-week practices. Though the Lions have not officially announced it, he's on track to start against the Rams Sunday. Johnson could be a game-time decision, but the progress is an indication that he'll play. While he's obviously not 100 percent, Johnson should be started in fantasy leagues against the Rams' poor pass defense.

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Two-Minute Drill: Panthers coach John Fox is expected to have a quick hook ready for Jake Delhomme if he gets off to a rough start against Arizona's suddenly swarming defense. … Cardinals coach Ken Whisenhunt isn't ready to anoint Beanie Wells as the starting running back, but he did say he will continue go with the rookie when he has a hot hand. … Chiefs RB Jamaal Charles is expected to start when the team returns from its Week 8 bye. … Cowboys RB Felix Jones will be the main kickoff returner with Allen Rossum sidelined 2-4 weeks. … Saints RB Mike Bell played 18 of 19 offensive snaps in the second half last week, indicating that he remains the team's backfield "closer." … The Packers have yet to decide if Ahman Green will be active as the third-down back this week. … 49ers coordinator Jimmy Raye indicated that his offense will not change at all despite the move to Alex Smith at quarterback.

Red Zone: One day after guaranteeing that he would play this week, Andre Johnson (bruised lung) returned to a limited practice. He's on track to start Sunday at Buffalo. … Though Reggie Wayne (groin) missed a second straight practice, Colts president Bill Polian still expects him to start this week. … DeSean Jackson (foot) returned to a full practice Thursday and will start against the Giants. … Bernard Berrian (hamstring) returned to a limited practice Thursday. Percy Harvin (illness) missed practice, but he's expected to return Friday and could pick up extra snaps on Sunday if Berrian's snaps are reduced. … Titans WR Nate Washington missed Thursday's practice with a quadriceps injury. … Jerricho Cotchery (hamstring) and Anquan Boldin (ankle) are expected to play Sunday despite being limited in practice again. … Matt Hasselbeck (ribs) and Jonathan Stewart (heel) returned to full practice Thursday, as expected. … Falcons RB Jason Snelling is in danger of missing this week's game after sitting out Thursday's practice with a hamstring injury. … Packers TE Jermichael Finley (knee) is a long shot to play this week. … Saints FB Heath Evans is out for the season with a torn ACL. … Still dealing with pain and soreness in his foot, Raiders WR Chaz Schilens is unlikely to return this week. … Muhsin Muhammad (knee) missed a second straight practice, and the Panthers are preparing Dwayne Jarrett for the start this week. … Saints coach Sean Payton revealed that DT Sedrick Ellis is out indefinitely with a knee sprain. … Giants WLB Michael Boley (knee) and DL Chris Canty were limited in their first practice in weeks. … Seahawks MLB Lofa Tatupu elected to undergo season-ending surgery to repair his torn pectorals.

[Hache Man]

Matchups: Austin's No Fluke

Six more teams go on byes in Week 8, three of which (New England, Pittsburgh, Cincinnati) have two or more every-week fantasy starters. With your lineup most likely down at least one stud, let's try to find some sleepers by breaking down the entire weekend game by game.

1:00PM ET Games

Seattle @ Dallas

It will be interesting to see how Miles Austin responds when opponents begin game planning for him, but he's currently an every-week play. He'll see a lot of Seahawks LCBs Josh Wilson and Marcus Trufant (on third downs) Sunday. Trufant will be rusty after missing the first six games on PUP...Austin's breakout has made Tony Romo a top-six QB. He has five TDs (four to Austin) and is averaging 331 yards in Austin's two starts...Roy Williams is merely a WR3 option, though he'll eventually benefit from less double coverage...Jason Witten is almost impossible to sit, but may have to block quite a bit because of Seattle's potent pass rush (eighth most sacks).

Tashard Choice's removal from the Cowboys' tailback rotation was unexpected. The second-year back is averaging 6.0 yards a touch compared to Marion Barber's 5.2. But owners have to move on and realize that Dallas has resumed its MB3-Felix Jones committee. It didn't show up in last week's box score, but Barber showed plenty of first-step burst and power. He's healthy, will get more touches this week, and is a legit RB1 versus a middling Seattle run defense...Felix's usage will be inconsistent as usual. He's a bye-week FLEX option, but is never a good bet to score.

Playing inside at Cowboys Stadium is a plus for passing, but it's hard to imagine Matt Hasselbeck not being terrorized all day by Dallas' blitzes. New $78M man DeMarcus Ware is red hot with four sacks in his last two games, and Seattle won't get back either of its starting offensive tackles (Walter Jones - knee, Sean Locklear - ankle). Hasselbeck is only a two-QB league option...John Carlson figures to spend most of the game providing "help" blocks for fill-in LT Damion McIntosh. McIntosh, 32, was a street free agent for the season's first seven weeks.

Nate Burleson is a better play than T.J. Houshmandzadeh. While both are only WR3s because Hasselbeck will be hurried so often, Burleson will mostly square off with beatable Dallas RCB Mike Jenkins. LCB Terence Newman (5'11/195) has the size to check Housh (6'1/199)...Julius Jones' confidence is so shaky week to week that he's not even a good FLEX play. Third-down back Justin Forsett is a better fit for the offense because of his superior blitz-pickup and receiving skills. QBs under pressure need their backs to pass protect and get open on check downs.

St. Louis @ Detroit

Donnie Avery has been so brittle that owners must always consider the possibility of an in-game injury before using him. He left in the second quarter of Week 6 with a hip injury, never to return, and came out of Week 7 with a new rib issue. The injuries haven't threatened his playing status and Avery won't get a better matchup all year, but they prevent him from being a confident play...Steven Jackson still doesn't have a TD, but averages 24 touches and 115 yards a game. Detroit surrenders the fifth-most YPC (4.6) in the NFL and third most rushes of 20+ yards (8).

After a hot two-game run, Marc Bulger predictably came back to earth last week against a stout Colts pass defense, throwing for just 140 yards and two picks. He now faces the league's worst secondary, though, and is a solid two-QB league bet at domed Ford Field...St. Louis oddly named Keenan Burton a captain for this week, but appears poised to activate newly acquired Brandon Gibson. Expect a timeshare between the two going forward...Slot man Danny Amendola still has a firm hold on the third receiver job. The Wes Welker clone is averaging five catches a week in the last three games and is worth adding in deep PPR leagues.

The Lions call anyone that isn't 100% "limited," but Matthew Stafford practiced every day this week and will likely start against the Rams. St. Louis lost promising RCB Brandon Fletcher (torn ACL, LCL) for the year in Week 7, improving an already favorable matchup. Consider Stafford a top-notch two-QB league play should Calvin Johnson (knee, thigh) dress for the game...Johnson is questionable, but we'll know his status early Sunday. He's a must-start against the Rams' hopeless pass defense if he goes. Only five teams give up more YPA (8.1) and passing TDs (11).

The Rams' run defense was bad before, but it's even worse now. Without Will Witherspoon, teams can successfully run to any area of St. Louis' defense. Even Colts special teamer Chad Simpson ripped off a 31-yard touchdown in last Sunday's loss, with Joseph Addai and Donald Brown pouring on 125 more total yards and another score. Consider it a shock if Kevin Smith's YPC average doesn't balloon after this one...Brandon Pettigrew, Dennis Northcutt, and Bryant Johnson are worth a look in this matchup if Calvin Johnson is out. Otherwise, keep them benched.

Miami @ NY Jets

Shonn Greene was deservedly this week's No. 1 waiver add. He was terrific coming off the bench last Sunday, delivering blows and exhibiting an explosive first step in the hole. But this is a "wait and see" week for the rookie, as Miami is fourth in the NFL against the run. Greene will be a legit RB2 in Week 9 versus Jacksonville if he finds a way to produce against the Dolphins...Thomas Jones gets a nice bump in PPR value following Leon Washington's season-ending injury. Washington had been dominating passing-down work. Most of those duties will now go to Jones.

The Jets have scaled back the playbook for Mark Sanchez after he hit the rookie wall. He tried just 15 throws to New York's 54 runs in Week 7. Jerricho Cotchery's (hamstring) return will help, but Sanchez's upside is crushed by a decidedly run-first mindset and now-limited ability to get aggressive in the passing game...Cotchery and Braylon Edwards will both be covered by rookie corners Sunday, as LCB Will Allen's (torn ACL) replacement is Vontae Davis. Expect Davis to stick with Cotchery, while Edwards sees more of Fins second-round pick Sean Smith.

There are sizable leaks in the Jets' run defense, which has plummeted to 22nd in the NFL since losing NT Kris Jenkins. Modestly talented Justin Fargas exploited the unit up the gut last week, frequently breaking into New York's secondary and busting a 35-yarder. Ricky Williams, the No. 10 overall fantasy back, is a legit RB2 in what usually isn't a favorable matchup. Ronnie Brown already dropped 88 yards and two TDs on the Jets once this year...Anthony Fasano's involvement has risen slightly since Chad Henne ascended to the starting QB job, but he's still only a TE2.

The Jets' secondary is their strength on defense. Headed by likely All-Pro CB Darrelle Revis, New York ranks seventh against the pass and only the Colts give up fewer yards per throw. The Jets' three passing TDs allowed are third least in the league. Henne isn't even a good two-QB league option, while the Dolphins' new four-receiver committee should be avoided entirely. There are strong indications that Ted Ginn Jr. will lose his starting job to rookie Brian Hartline, and the playing time split between Davone Bess and Greg Camarillo is entirely matchup based.



San Francisco @ Indianapolis

The passing-game conditions couldn't be more favorable inside Lucas Oil Stadium, but Alex Smith is barely worth QB2 consideration in this matchup. While he showed improved poise, arm strength, and touch after replacing Shaun Hill at halftime last week, Indianapolis is the toughest team in the league to throw on. Smith has a better shot at fantasy-caliber production in Week 9 against the Titans...Taking into account the ability to get open at all three levels and Week 7 snap counts, Michael Crabtree is the 49ers' new No. 1 receiver. He's a decent WR3 option even in the hard matchup.

If the 49ers win the coin flip, they'd be smart to receive and get the run game established. Frank Gore played all but four snaps last week, but had just 15 touches because San Francisco got down early. A similar scenario could take place against Peyton Manning and company, so the Niners have to get Gore going. He has the matchup to do it against an Ed Johnson-less Colts front seven that served up Steven Jackson's season-high rushing total (134) last week...Vernon Davis is the No. 2 overall tight end in fantasy and should rip apart Indianapolis' Cover 2 zone.

San Francisco's secondary began the year playing well, but it's been gashed by the pass of late. The 49ers have just two sacks since Week 4, while Matt Schaub and Matt Ryan have lit them up for five TDs and a 297 passing-yard average. Peyton Manning is licking his chops...The Niners slowed down Andre Johnson (2-62) last week, using bracket coverage and Nate Clements to "shadow" Houston's All Pro. Owen Daniels (7-123-1) dominated the rest of the field. Don't bench Reggie Wayne, but you can see how Dallas Clark would benefit from that strategy.

49ers SS Michael Lewis' return from a concussion may also help Clark. An "in the box" safety, Lewis has long struggled in coverage...Donald Brown's (shoulder) likely absence thrusts Joseph Addai into an every-down role. While the matchup is difficult against San Francisco's No. 6 run defense, owners need to capitalize on Addai's opportunity. The Colts will move the ball, creating TD chances...We need to see Anthony Gonzalez get on the field and play a prominent role before using him. Wideouts returning from lingering knee injuries are never good bets...Austin Collie, coming off a 37-yard, one-score effort, has a favorable matchup with 49ers nickel CB Dre' Bly.

Cleveland @ Chicago

For a Chicago team that plays much better at home, the Browns present a prime opportunity to rebound. Only six teams have fewer sacks than Cleveland, and the Soldier Field forecast is favorable (little wind, 20% chance of rain, 50-degree temps). One of the NFL's most resilient players, Jay Cutler should be in lineups...Browns LCB Eric Wright was torched by Donald Driver last game and will now see Devin Hester in primary coverage. Playing with a bum shoulder, Wright is tackling and covering poorly...Greg Olsen is a low-end TE1 at this point. While this matchup is good, his breakout isn't happening yet.

The promotion of LG Josh Beekman into Chicago's starting lineup bodes well for Matt Forte. He was the Bears' best run-blocking lineman all last year, and packs more power than Frank Omiyale, who undeservedly began the season as the starter. While the switch probably won't turn Forte's disappointing season around, he has to be used against the Browns' No. 31 run defense...Johnny Knox and Earl Bennett continue to rotate at split end and cancel each other out. Knox is still the better WR3 dice roll in non-PPR. Bennett is the underneath, possession option.

Chicago's Week 7 collapse in the secondary (Carson Palmer threw five TDs) will probably prove fluky. The unit is talented from top CB Charles Tillman down to third safety Kevin Payne, and was surrendering less than one passing TD per game entering the letdown. As usual, Derek Anderson is safe to sit...Mohamed Massaquoi is so inconsistent because coverage is easily directed his way, but he's a WR3 option this week. Tillman normally stays on the defensive left, with Zackary Bowman on the right (where Massaquoi usually lines up). Bowman's confidence is shaky.

The Browns continue to show no signs of increasing Jerome Harrison's usage. Coach Eric Mangini blames it on Harrison's pass-blocking deficiencies, but he was Cleveland's most effective offensive player when Jamal Lewis was out earlier this year. The situation is a real shame...Lewis isn't a strong RB2 in even the most favorable matchups. The Bears' defense gives up a rushing touchdown per game, but we can't recommend the washed-up 30-year-old.

Denver @ Baltimore

The key matchup here is Baltimore's king-sized front seven versus Denver's zone-blocking built, athletic offensive line. The Ravens maintain a top-eight run defense rank, but have been gutted by Adrian Peterson and Cedric Benson for a combined 263 rushing yards in the last two games. Consider Knowshon Moreno, who has likely usurped Correll Buckhalter on the Broncos' depth chart, a risky RB2 with upside...Buckhalter isn't getting the ball enough to be a good FLEX play...The Ravens haven't covered big wideouts well all year. Brandon Marshall will break lots of tackles Sunday.

Tony Scheffler's role seems to be growing, but know that his big Week 7 (6-101-1) came against a Chargers defense that is routinely the NFL's worst at covering TEs. Scheffler is still only the No. 18 fantasy tight end......The weather at M & T Bank Stadium isn't a concern. The forecast calls for mid-60s temps, only a 10% chance of rain, and 11MPH winds that won't be a factor. Kyle Orton is a quality play against Baltimore's leaky secondary...Eddie Royal should still be benched. Catch-less in his last game, he's the smallish type of wideout Baltimore's undersized but fast corners can lock down.

Denver has played tough pass defense to this point, but coordinator Mike Nolan's scheme relies heavily on pressure. The expected return of LT Jared Gaither (knee) would help Baltimore in this regard, as he'll square off with NFL sacks leader Elvis Dumervil. Joe Flacco lacks a big upside with Broncos CBs Andre' Goodman and Champ Bailey playing so well, but is a top-10 QB with six teams on bye...Expect Mark Clayton to draw mostly Goodman on Sunday while Derrick Mason deals with Bailey. Clayton will likely struggle, but Mason can be employed as a WR3. Just don't expect a monster day.

Todd Heap will likely often be on the line helping Gaither fight off Dumervil, and will see Broncos FS Brian Dawkins when he runs pass routes. This isn't a formula for fantasy production...Ray Rice figures to remain Baltimore's featured player on offense. While the Broncos rank third against the run, their rag-tag front seven has not seen as nasty or technically sound an offensive line as the Ravens'. This will likely be a fairly low-scoring affair, but Rice is always a good bet for 100 total yards. He has 57 touches to Willis McGahee's 15 in the Ravens' last three games.



NY Giants @ Philadelphia

New York has lost two straight games to pass-first offenses, and faces a third Sunday at Lincoln Financial Field. Philadelphia ranks seventh in the league in throws per game and may count on the pass even more with Brian Westbrook (concussion) not expected to play. The conditions will be favorable with only a 30% chance of precipitation, sub-10MPH winds, and temperatures in the 60s. Donovan McNabb's accuracy has been problematic of late, but he needs to be used in fantasy leagues along with DeSean Jackson, Brent Celek, and Jeremy Maclin (a WR3 option).

Celek is an especially solid bet because of the Giants' weak safety play. FS C.C. Brown has been a liability since replacing Kenny Phillips...McCoy, averaging just 3.6 yards per carry, now goes against New York's top-five run defense. While he could see 20 touches because backup Eldra Buckley isn't a serious threat for snaps, McCoy's upside is limited enough that he's no more than a FLEX flier...The Giants are no longer using top CB Corey Webster to "shadow" opponents' No. 1 receivers, as it appeared early in the year. Jackson is safe to use as a borderline WR1.

The Giants haven't said that Ahmad Bradshaw's role will decline after Dr. Robert Anderson found a cracked metatarsal in his foot at Wednesday's visit. But it certainly won't increase, as he's one false step from season-ending surgery. This is a plus for owners of Brandon Jacobs, who's been running with abandon in his last two games. Jacobs' season YPC is still 3.87, but he's averaging 5.45 since Week 5 while showing more power and making sharper cuts. Philly's blitz-happy, but smallish defense is unlikely to contain him, especially if Jacobs resumes seeing 20 touches.

The Eagles' top-ten pass defense rarely yields big plays. Only three teams have given up fewer gains of 20+ yards through the air, and they should remain stingy thanks to coordinator Sean McDermott's all-out blitzes. Philly has the second most sacks in the league...It's not great news for Hakeem Nicks, whose fantasy stats of late rely heavily on long touchdowns. Nicks is only a WR3 this week...Steve Smith will spend plenty of time in the slot getting man coverage as the Birds employ a Cover 1 scheme. While Mario Manningham's snaps are going down due to drops, Smith will continue to play the most of all Giants wideouts and is a rock-solid WR2.

Houston @ Buffalo

The Ralph Wilson Stadium forecast can worsen at any time, but currently calls for temps in the mid to high 40s, only a 30% chance of rain, and 11MPH winds. This isn't poor enough weather to downgrade any Texans. Matt Schaub is the top fantasy QB and a must-start against a stingy Bills pass defense...Andre Johnson is practicing despite a bruised lung, and coach Gary Kubiak has made it clear that he expects A.J. to start. If the Bills don't use LCB Terrence McGee to shadow Johnson, slow RCB Drayton Florence will get the nod with safety help from rookie Jairus Byrd.

Buffalo ranks dead last against the run while serving up a league-high 5.2 YPC and nine TDs on the ground (sixth most). Steve Slaton's biggest contributions lately have come on check downs and screens, but this is a nice opportunity to pad his rushing stats. Highly active Bills DT Kyle Williams (knee) is expected to be inactive...Buffalo has improved against tight ends recently, but mostly because it hasn't faced a good one. Owen Daniels is the No. 1 fantasy TE in the game...Keep Kevin Walter benched unless Andre Johnson is a surprise scratch Sunday morning.

Ryan Fitzpatrick did well to lead Buffalo to Week 6 and 7 wins, but has never had sustained success at this level. While Houston's pass defense is mediocre (tied for 14th), the Bills' passing game poses no vertical threat. Avoid Fitzpatrick except in two-QB leagues...Lee Evans has been the obvious beneficiary of Fitzpatrick's ascension to the starting job with an average of 72 yards and two TDs in the last two games. Despite a weak arm, Fitz can get it to Evans because he is running more cross and shallow patterns. Terrell Owens serves as the pass-dropping outside decoy.

The Texans' run defense is a certifiable matchup to avoid. After holding Frank Gore to 32 yards last week, Houston is surrendering an average of 23 rushing yards per game to starting RBs over the last month. Marshawn Lynch has reassumed the Bills' every-down back role (Fred Jackson got five touches in Week 7), but temper expectations. It is a plus for Lynch that he'll stay in the game if Buffalo falls behind. Jackson is now playing more special teams and is no longer even the passing-down back.

4:05PM ET Games

Jacksonville @ Tennessee

Owners of Ben Roethlisberger, Carson Palmer, and Tom Brady should strongly consider "new" Titans starting QB Vince Young in an exceptionally favorable matchup. The emotional V.Y. will have the backing of the Nashville crowd while facing Jacksonville's No. 31 pass defense. The Jags allow an average of two passing TDs per game, have generated an NFL-low five sacks, and lack the speed at outside linebacker to contain Young as he drifts outside the pocket and looks to scramble. There's next to no rain or wind in the LP Field forecast, and temps will be in the 60s.

Young is an intriguing stand-alone option, but his inaccuracy may hurt receivers Justin Gage, Nate Washington, and Kenny Britt. V.Y. is not aggressive going downfield and has a poor career completion rate of 56.9...The Titans' tight ends might be better bets -- if they had one worth using. Instead, Bo Scaife, Alge Crumpler, and Jared Cook rotate evenly...Chris Johnson should return from Tennessee's Week 7 bye with fresher legs than ever, which is a scary thought. The Jags play the run well, but Johnson will be the centerpiece of Tennessee's offense from here on out.

Tennessee's secondary is getting healthy. Nickel back Vincent Fuller is off the injury report after missing four weeks with a broken arm, and CBs Cortland Finnegan and Nick Harper appear likely to play. This is still a favorable matchup for David Garrard; the Titans' DBs were never very good in the first place...In the aforementioned warm and clear weather, it's also a choice setup for Mike Sims-Walker. MSW's main man-on will likely be Finnegan, who was overaggressive early in the year before straining a hamstring. This is his first game back, and he may not be 100%.

As the Titans' pass defense crumbled leading into their Week 7 bye, so did their front seven. They're now barely a top-ten unit in run defense. Maurice Jones-Drew will be looking for redemption after managing just 40 total yards and a score on nine touches in his last meeting with Tennessee. The Jags, also coming off a bye, will look to establish the run first...After Sims-Walker, Torry Holt appears to be the second-best bet for receiving yards on either side in this game. "Big Game" still hasn't scored all year, but has 196 yards in his last two performances. He's a WR3.

Oakland @ San Diego

The Raiders probably won't come to play, but they can at least keep this one competitive by pounding it down San Diego's throat. The Bolts are 28th against the run and allow a rushing TD per game. Darren McFadden (knee surgery) remains out indefinitely, but Justin Fargas showed plenty of inside explosiveness last week against the Jets. It doesn't hurt that Chargers NT Ogemdi Nwagbuo (ankle, foot) was in a boot all week. With JaMarcus Russell coming off three first-quarter turnovers and a subsequent Week 7 benching, Oakland would be smart to keep it out of his hands.

Michael Bush started over Fargas last week, but Fargas got the ball more and Bush isn't able to find a rhythm on 10-12 touches. Fargas is a quality RB2 in this matchup, while Bush is a mere FLEX option...As mentioned previously, the Chargers can't defend tight ends. They also don't generate enough pressure (two sacks per game) for Zach Miller to stay out of the box score because he's "help" blocking. This is one of the rare weeks when Miller is a relatively safe play...Avoid the Raiders' wideouts, especially if Chaz Schilens (foot) returns to action.

Vincent Jackson's fifth-year breakout began on a Week 1 TD with Nnamdi Asomugha in coverage. Fantasy's No. 7 overall receiver will probably see a lot of "Aso" again, but it doesn't matter...Chris Chambers is in danger of losing his starting job to Malcom Floyd, as coach Norv Turner acknowledged this week. It's about time. Floyd releases from DBs much easier at this stage of their careers, and Chambers won't be a Charger in 2010...Raiders SS Tyvon Branch did a good job on Antonio Gates in the opener, but Gates still managed 83 yards. He is the No. 4 tight end in fantasy.

Philip Rivers has topped 250 yards and 30 attempts in every game this year. While the Bolts may use a more balanced game plan because Oakland is so porous against the run, Rivers is a top-five fantasy QB week in and week out...As alluded to in Brad Morgan's Red Zone Report, LaDainian Tomlinson received 10 goal-line carries in Week 7. He didn't convert one, while Darren Sproles had 99 yards and a score on eight touches. LT isn't bench-able against Oakland's No. 30 run defense, but last week further proved that Sproles is the more effective back.



4:15PM ET Games

Minnesota @ Green Bay

The cause for Minnesota's crumbling pass defense? Big plays. No team has yielded more gains of 20+ yards through the air. Greg Jennings has been consistently mediocre in the last three weeks, but remains Green Bay's best long-ball threat in the passing game. The Lambeau weather (mid-40s temps, next to no wind or chance of showers) will not hinder passing on either side. Use both Jennings and Donald Driver against the Antoine Winfield-less (foot) Vikings...Packers TE Jermichael Finley (knee sprain) is very unlikely to play and should be benched even if he's active.

The emergence of heady, athletic rookie LT T.J. Lang is terrific news for Aaron Rodgers. Lang, in his first career start last week, stoned Kamerion Wimbley (2 solo tackles, no sacks) and blocked well in the run game. Week 8 against Jared Allen proves a stiffer challenge, but Green Bay may have found its blind-side protector of the future...Minnesota is no longer a top-three run defense, but still ranks 10th and has surrendered only two rushing scores in seven games. Packers coach Mike McCarthy is sure to focus on the pass. Don't expect more than 15 carries for Ryan Grant.

Green Bay has also been stout against the run, surrendering 3.5 YPC to Minnesota's 4.1 average and a similar two rushing scores (though in six games). Adrian Peterson is still in line for a big effort. Packers GM Ted Thompson couldn't live with himself if Brett Favre came to Lambeau and beat his team with the pass. Expect fewer eight-man fronts from Green Bay and Peterson to light them up...The Packers are one of the tougher teams in the league against the tight end. Visanthe Shiancoe, who managed just 18 yards on three grabs in their last meeting, is bench material.

Sidney Rice is officially in the midst of a third-year receiver breakout. Physical in traffic now that he's confident in his once-troublesome knee, Rice is making plays in double coverage at every level. He'll get his most difficult test to date on Sunday. Charles Woodson, who's still covering very well at age 33, will draw Rice in base formations...Upgrade Percy Harvin, who's finally getting over his shoulder injury, if Bernard Berrian (hamstring) can't play. In that scenario, Harvin would likely move to flanker and be an every-down wideout with Rice occupying Berrian's split end spot.

Carolina @ Arizona

Chris Wells can establish himself as Arizona's clear-cut feature back in a matchup with Carolina's No. 26 run defense. Cards coach Ken Whisenhunt said this week that Beanie will continue to get more touches -- promising words considering he has 30 to Tim Hightower's 23 in the last two games already. Wells is a rock-solid RB2 with upside...Hightower will still play plenty in passing situations because he's better than Wells in blitz pickup, but the ship has sailed on Arizona's "starter" as more than a desperate FLEX in PPR leagues.

Carolina tops the NFL pass defense ranks, but it's a fluky stat. No team has fewer pass attempts against because opponents use run-heavy game plans against the Panthers' soft rush defense. They also allow QBs to complete 65.6% of their throws. Confidently use Kurt Warner and Larry Fitzgerald...Anquan Boldin's (hamstring) return to practice all week, even on a limited basis, is highly promising. He's a virtual lock to play, and worth waiting for despite a 4:15ET start...Keep Steve Breaston benched, however. He only had 23 yards last week on basically a full complement of snaps, which will go down with Boldin healthier.

Being successful on the ground against Arizona's No. 1 rush defense is another story, but the Panthers are sure to come out pounding it Sunday. Jake Delhomme is on pace for a league-high 35 interceptions, so Carolina will want the ball out of his hands as much as possible. Assuming the Panthers can keep this one relatively close, expect 100-115 yards on 18-20 touches from DeAngelo Williams and 65-80 on 12-14 touches from "Double Trouble" partner Jonathan Stewart.

News that Delhomme will be on a short leash isn't surprising in the least. It doesn't affect Steve Smith's matchup, either. With Muhsin Muhammad (knee) set to play at obviously less than 100 percent or be inactive altogether, Smith should be a target hound even if Matt Moore has to come in. It is worth noting that Moore started Weeks 14-16 in 2007. Over that span, Smith averaged eight catches for 86 yards per game, with one touchdown. Plug him in as a WR2 and don't look back against a Cardinals secondary that is struggling with injuries to RCB Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie (ankle) and FS Antrel Rolle (foot).

[Hache Man]

Brees has history of torching Falcons defense


The Atlanta Falcons are poised to become Drew Brees' new No. 1 victims in Week 8. On Monday night, the Falcons will try to slow down Brees and the Saints' high-powered attack, but if history is any indicator, they're going to have a pretty difficult time of it.
According to Pro-Football-Reference.com, Atlanta is currently Brees' 2nd-biggest career target in terms of passing yards vs. a single franchise, trailing only Kansas City:

Opponent	Yds
Kansas City Chiefs	2113
Atlanta Falcons	1966
Oakland (LA) Raiders	1844
Tampa Bay Buccaneers	1783
Carolina Panthers	1720
Denver Broncos	1525
San Francisco 49ers	1221
Philadelphia Eagles	1169
Green Bay Packers	1039
Jacksonville Jaguars	952

Brees needs 147 yards on Monday night to make the Falcons his all-time top fall guys, and you have to like his chances. In his career, he's averaging 280.9 yards per game against Atlanta, and he's averaged 283 yards per game against all opponents so far in 2009.

[Hache Man]

Upcoming schedule is much kinder for these RBs



By David Dorey, TheHuddle.com
Not only are running backs the most predictable element of a fantasy team's offense, their roles come into sharper focus later in the year when weather and wind force teams to run more. By now we think we know who the good and bad running backs are, but the schedule has a huge impact on their production.
There are always a few guys who open their season facing an easier slate of defenses only to see far tougher challenges over the season's final two months. These are the guys whose expectations need to be lowered and selling high in a trade is always a good idea.
There are also a few running backs who start their season going against a rough stretch of defenses only to see their schedule get significantly lighter starting in November. These players should outperform their season-to-date numbers and become much more attractive in a trade.
The biggest schedule swings for running backs:
Cleveland Browns– The season started with a brutal stretch of road games in Denver, Baltimore and Pittsburgh. The Browns also hosted the Vikings, Bengals and Packers – all top defenses against running backs. The only game in which they did not face a top defense was in Buffalo, where Jamal Lewis rushed for 117 yards. Their remaining schedule still has homestands against the Steelers and Ravens but they also play against the Bears, Lions, Chargers, Chiefs and Raiders. The Browns don't have the talent for a big bang to end the year but the fantasy stats will be improved for the running backs.

Cincinnati Bengals–Cedric Benson has already seen a spike in his production this year and even better games could be yet to come. Consider that Benson started out playing the Broncos, Packers, Steelers and Ravens and yet he's been one of the most productive runners this season. After facing the Ravens and Steelers again in Weeks 9 and 10, his schedule turns delightful with games against the Raiders, Browns, Lions, Chargers and Chiefs. As long as his heavy workload doesn't tire him out later in the year, Benson could be finishing with even bigger stats.
Tennessee Titans–Chris Johnson has been inconsistent at best and LenDale White has disappeared completely against a schedule that opened with the Steelers, Jets, Colts, Jaguars and Patriots. The only time the Titans did not face a great rushing defense was against the visiting Texans, when Johnson put up 197 rushing yards and 87 receiving yards and scored three times. There are still a few tough weeks left – vs. the Jaguars, Cardinals Colts and Dolphins— but games against the 49ers, Bills, Texans, Rams and Chargers will make the second half of the year much better than the first.
Jacksonville Jaguars–Maurice Jones-Drew has certainly played well so far and he's done it despite facing defenses of the Colts, Cardinals, Seahawks and Titans. After facing the Titans again on Sunday, Jones-Drew should see a considerable uptick in stats as he runs against the Chiefs, Bills, 49ers and Texans over the next six weeks. Fantasy playoff weeks against the Dolphins, Colts and Patriots won't be much fun, but Jones-Drew will make some noise before then.
Arizona Cardinals– Tim Hightower and Chris "Beanie" Wells haven't exactly been top runners and their offensive scheme will ensure neither will become a true workhorse back, but they can score the short touchdowns the way Hightower did last year. And the lower yardage totals this season are related to an opening stretch that proved more challenging than was expected with games against the 49ers, Jaguars, Seahawks and Giants. The remaining schedule, however, includes matchups against the Panthers, Bears, Rams, Lions and Rams. Wells started to get a bigger share of the load last week though Hightower remains the official starter. Wells might be a nice calculated risk since he could play his way into a bigger role and by the fantasy playoffs wind up against the Lions and Rams.
The schedule has a big impact on your running backs but for a few teams there are two distinctly different parts to the season. Now is the time to acquire those players with the rising value and if you already own them – enjoy the ride.

[Hache Man]

Coaches Corner: Expect plenty of offense in Giants-Eagles


Tom Coughlin (New York Giants) vs. Andy Reid (Philadelphia Eagles)
With both the Giants and Eagles ranking in the top 10 when it comes to total defense, many fantasy owners will be wary of starting offensive players in this contest. But the history between Andy Reid and Tom Coughlin says start them with confidence.
Since Coughlin's arrival in New York in 2004, the two coaches have met 12 times, and fantasy owners will be pleased to know that both teams are averaging over 20 points per game in those 12 contests. There will be points to be had for both Donovan McNabb and Co. as well as Eli Manning and Co.
Jack Del Rio (Jacksonville Jaguars) vs. Jeff Fisher (Tennessee Titans)
If previous games between Jack Del Rio and Jeff Fisher teach us anything, it's that anything is possible this Sunday. The coaches have met a total of 13 times since 2003 (Fisher leads the head-to-head battle with seven wins to Del Rio's six) and they've experienced every type of game imaginable. There have been defensive-dominated outings, offensive explosions, close games and blowouts.
Rather then take a look at all 13 times these two coaches have squared off, it's best to examine just their most recent meeting – a Week 4 affair that saw Del Rio's Jags come out on top 37-17. Will we see similar results in Week 8? On paper, it appears so.
While neither the Jags or the Titans are offensive dynamos or defensive stalwarts this season, Jacksonville is slightly better statistically on both sides of the ball -- ranking 11th in total offense to the Titans' 22nd and 23rd in total defense to the Titans' 31st. Those rankings lead us to believe that the Jags will come out on top again, meaning you can expect solid games from David Garrard (25 points in week 4), Mike Sims-Walker (21), Josh Scobee (14), Marcedes Lewis (13), and Maurice Jones-Drew (9).

[Hache Man]

Struggling running backs roar to life




Three disappointing running backs had big days Sunday, but don't expect the good times to last.

Steven Jackson has been one of the St. Louis Rams' few bright spots.
Against the Detroit Lions, Jackson had his fourth 100-yard rushing game of the year, a season-high 166 total yards and his first touchdown.
Jackson owners should enjoy the day. The Rams have not scored more than 20 points in a game, and Jackson's scoring chances will be limited in the second half of the year.
Lack of touchdowns has also been the bane of LaDainian Tomlinson's season. Although the San Diego Chargers star ran for a season-high 71 yards in Week 7, he couldn't score in a rout of the Kansas City Chiefs. That changed against the Oakland Raiders as Tomlinson ran for two first-half TDs.
Despite being held to 56 rushing yards, those TDs are reason enough for Tomlinson owners to rejoice.
The Chicago Bears' Matt Forte's two TDs doubled his scoring output of his first six games, and his 121 total yards was his second-best game of 2009. But the effort came vs. the Cleveland Browns' No. 31 run defense. Chicago has yet to show it can effectively run against good teams. -- Matt Pitzer

[Hache Man]

Titanic Day
Happy belated Halloween everyone!

It was scary how good some of the performances were in Week 8, as the ghoulish fever carried on into Sunday's games. Let's take a look at what went down at the unofficial midpoint of the N.F.L. season.

Top 5 Quarterbacks:

1. Aaron Rodgers – 287 Pass Yds, 3 TDs, 0 INTs, 52 Rush Yds – His best wasn't good enough to win the game, but it was more than enough from a fantasy perspective. He's a fantasy machine as far as quarterbacks as concerned, and can be relied on every single week, regardless of the matchup.

2. Brett Favre – 244 Pass Yds, 4 TDs, 0 INTs – This guy always seems to deliver when there is a little extra emotion involved. Despite fighting back tears in the postgame interview, Favre looked like the Favre of old on Sunday, as he now has three games this season with at least three touchdowns.

3. Mark Sanchez – 265 Pass Yds, 2 TDs, 0 INTs, 6 Rush Yds, 1 TD – Talk about a tale of two halves. It couldn't have been any uglier for the "Sanchize" in the first half as he had just 54-yards passing and no scores. All he did in the second half was throw for 211-yards and notch three total scores, one of those being his second rushing TD in as many weeks.

4. Tony Romo – 256 Pass Yds, 3 TDs, 0 INTs, 1 FL, 10 Rush Yds – Romo has been absolutely locked during the past three weeks, as the key to that success is largely due to the "Big Zero" he has put up in interception column. He hasn't thrown a pick since Week 4, and it doesn't take a neurosurgeon to figure out that more time on the field leads to a better success rate for scoring.

5. Donovan McNabb – 240 Pass Yds, 3 TDs, 0 INTs, 1 FL, 14 Rush Yds – After two consecutive sub par games, McNabb finally got back on the right track on Sunday. Westbrook or no Westbrook, the Eagles offense is extremely explosive, making McNabb a threat to break out every week.

Top 5 Running Backs:

1. Chris Johnson – 228 Rush Yds, 2 TDs, 2 Rec, 11 Yds – Lightning in a bottle struck four times in this game, as CJ and MJD combined for four rushing scores from over 50-yards out. Johnson answered Mojo's long scores with a pair of his own, as he must've taken the "Anything you can do I can do better" approach.

2. Ryan Moats – 126 Rush Yds, 3 TDs, 2 Rec, 25 Yds – Moats made the most of his opportunity and then some. After Slaton was benched for his fifth lost fumble this season, it was Moats, and not Chris Brown, that handled the bulk of the rushing duties. You better believe he's earned himself some carries going forward, as Slaton owners just let out a collective sigh.

3. Maurice Jones-Drew – 177 Rush Yds, 2 TDs, 1 Rec, -4 Yds – How a guy of MJD's caliber only gets 8 carries the entire game is beyond me, but let's just say he made the most of them. All he did was average 22 yards-per-carry, as he scampered on an 80-yard score on his first carry of the game, and a 79-yard score on his first carry of the second half. Not a bad day at the office.

4. Matt Forte – 90 Rush Yds, 2 TDs, 2 Rec, 31 Yds – Whew! It's about bleeping time. This one game does not justify the poor season that Forte has had thus far, but it does relieve some of the frustration for his owners, at least for one week. Not for nothing, but if he didn't have a big game against the Browns, then all hope would've been lost.

5. Steven Jackson – 149 Rush Yds, 1 TD, 3 Rec, 17 Yds – S-Jax was still managing to have a productive fantasy campaign without having scored a touchdown, but it was encouraging to finally see him punch it in – the Lions are usually the team to help out in that department. Sunday marked his fourth 100-yard game of the season, and that's pretty darn impressive considering how bad the Rams have been.

Top 5 Wide Receivers:

1. Reggie Wayne – 12 Rec, 147 Yds, 1 TD – Wayne has scored in all but one game this season – Week 2 against the Dolphins – en route to rattling off a touchdown in five straight. He's as consistent a fantasy wideout as they come, and it doesn't hurt that he has #18 throwing him the ball.

2. Vincent Jackson – 8 Rec, 103 Yds, 1 TD – V-Jax has now scored in three straight, and similar to his counterpart above, he has scored in all but two games this season. There's no doubt that he's the main offensive weapon in a potent Charger's offense, and the fact that he continues to get open game-after-game is incredible.

3. Percy Harvin – 5 Rec, 84 Yds, 1 TD – Harvin is a quickly developing into Favre's favorite third down target, as he is the perfect combo of speed and physicality. He's not afraid to go over the middle and take a hit, and he's being rewarded by seeing more throws come his way. He may be third on the depth chart, but don't let that fool you, because he's a significant piece to the puzzle that is the Vikings' offense.

4. Greg Jennings – 8 Rec, 88 Yds, 1 TD – Jennings broke out of his slump of games without a touchdown, as he notched his first score since Week 1. It has been a struggle for Jennings this season, but he's still an immense talent that can break out on any given Sunday – if you saw his score with a defender draped on his back you know exactly what I'm talking about.

5. Braylon Edwards – 4 Rec, 74 Yds, 1 TD – If you want to talk about amazing catches, look no further than Braylon's touchdown on Sunday. Edwards tipped the ball to himself off the defender and powered his way into the endzone, while somehow managing to hold onto the football. Sanchez loves looking his way, and that makes him once again fantasy relevant in the Big Apple.

Top 5 Tight Ends:

1. Spencer Havner – 2 Rec, 21 Yds, 2 TDs – Two catches and two touchdowns: not a bad ratio. Havner has made the most of his playing time, as Jermichael Finley has been nursing a knee injury. I'm still not buying into the back-to-back good weeks, but if Finley is out for an extended period of time, Havner might be worth a look.

2. Kevin Boss – 3 Rec, 70 Yds, 1 TD – Boss finally scored his first touchdown of the season in what has been an otherwise very disappointing '09 campaign. The touchdown numbers have not come as easily as they did last year due in large part to the fact that the Giants are asking him to do more BLOCKING. That eight-letter word in CAPS, which will not further be mentioned, is a fantasy owner's worst nightmare.

3. Dustin Keller – 8 Rec, 76 Yds, 1 TD – Keller was finally heavily involved in the Jets passing game, as he easily had his best game of the season on Sunday. This was supposed to be the case all season long, but it just hasn't worked out due to Sanchez's inefficiencies and the Jets' game plan focusing more on run.

4. Brent Celek – 4 Rec, 61 Yds, 1 TD – He had a touchdown taken away on a holding penalty, but then proceeded to score a few plays later from further out. How's that for being persistent? Celek has taken a huge leap in his third season, as McNabb loves looking his way in the red zone.

5. Dallas Clark – 8 Rec, 99 Yds, 0 TDs – It must be fun playing in the Colts' offense. It makes me wonder if I could go out there and catch a few passes from Peyton "cut that meat" Manning. How hard could it be? Okay, enough daydreaming. If you have Clark on your team, you should be counting your lucky stars, because he puts up WR2 numbers every single week.

Top 5 Defenses/Special Teams:

1. Chicago Bears DEF/ST – 6 PA, 1 Sack, 2 INTs, 3 FR, 1 BLK, 1 TD – Talk about filling up the stat sheet. It gets much tougher against the Cardinals next week – although, apparently not, if this week is any indication – but for now, this is a very positive bounce back from their putrid performance against the Bengals last week.

2. Miami Dolphins DEF/ST – 25 PA, 2 Sacks, 0 INTs, 1 FR, 3 TDs – The Dolphins' D tripled the output of their offense, and it wasn't even Sanchez who made the mistakes. Ted Ginn Jr. was absolutely dynamic in the return game, single-handedly giving the Fins their third win of the season.

3. Carolina Panthers DEF/ST– 21 PA, 2 Sacks, 5 INTs, 1 FR, 1 TD – Kurt Warner looked like a rookie on Sunday, as he was baffled all game by the Panthers' turnover happy defense. Julius Peppers added the score for Carolina, and he'll need to be effective next week if the Panthers are going to have any chance against the Saints.

4. Tennessee Titans DEF/ST – 13 PA, 4 Sacks, 2 INTs, 0 FR, 1 BLK – You couldn't have had any confidence in this unit going into the game, and rightly so. They have been awful all season long and, coming off a game in which they allowed 59 points, if you started them this week then you're some kind of riverboat gambler.

5. Dallas Cowboys DEF/ST – 17 PA, 3 Sacks, 0 INTs, 2 FR, 1 TD – After starting the season poorly, the Cowboys have put together two consecutive stellar performances. It will be much more difficult against the high flying Eagles next week, but stash them on your bench because they get to face the Redskins and Raiders in the upcoming weeks.

Bottom 5 Quarterbacks:

1. David Garrard – 139 Pass Yds, 0 TDs, 2 INTs, 22 Rush Yds – That now makes two stinkers in his past three games.
2. Marc Bulger – 176 Pass Yds, 0 TDs, 1 INT – The matchup couldn't have been any more favorable.
3. Kurt Warner – 242 Pass Yds, 2 TDs, 5 INTs, 1 FL
4. Kyle Orton – 152 Pass Yds, 0 TDs, 0 INTs, 11 Rush Yds
5. Matt Schaub – 268 Pass Yds, 0 TDs, 2 INTs, 1 2-pt conversion

Bottom 5 Running Backs:

1. Steve Slaton – 1 Rush Yd, 2 Rec, 10 Yds, 1 FL – Houston, we have a problem.
2. Shonn Greene – 18 Rush Yds, 1 FL – So much for a repeat performance.
3. Ronnie Brown – 27 Rush Yds, 1 Rec, 2 Yds
4. Marshawn Lynch – 43 Rush Yds
5. Chris Wells – 47 Rush Yds

Bottom 5 Wide Receivers:

1. Donnie Avery – 1 Rec, 15 Yds
2. Lee Evans – 2 Rec, 29 Yds – So much for that breakout season.
3. Anquan Boldin – 3 Rec, 23 Yds – Aggravated the ankle injury.
4. T.J. Houshmandzadeh – 4 Rec, 24 Yds
5. Brandon Marshall – 4 Rec, 24 Yds

Bottom 5 Tight Ends:

1. Tony Scheffler – 1 Rec, 9 Yds – Disappointing after his huge game against the Chargers.
2. Brandon Pettigrew – 2 Rec, 17 Yds
3. Anthony Fasano – 2 Rec, 16 Yds
4. Donald Lee – 3 Rec, 17 Yds
5. Todd Heap – 3 Rec, 16 Yds – Now that's more like the Todd Heap we've all come to know and love.

[Hache Man]

Lambeau Hospitality


#5. Rams 17 Lions 10


BEYOND THE BOXSCORE

* The win snapped a 17-game losing streak for the Rams that dated back to last year. They didn't look great, but the Lions looked worse. It was a battle of two very bad football teams.

* Marc Bulger, who finished 17-of-35 for 176 yards, passed Jim Everett for second on the Rams' all-time passing yards list. Of course, that doesn't mean he's worthy of a spot on fantasy rosters. It appears St. Louis will struggle to move the ball through the air all season long.

* The Rams' key touchdown came on a trick play near the end of the second quarter, when kicker Josh Brown threw a short pass to a wide-open Daniel Fells, who rumbled 36 yards for a score. It afforded the Rams a 10-2 lead just before the end of the first half.

* The Lions' wideouts dropped over seven catchable passes, making life miserable for an otherwise sharp Matthew Stafford. He showed no lingering issues with his knee.

* Rams S James Butler intercepted a dropped end-zone pass from Lions QB Matt Stafford in the second quarter, but decided to take it out of the paint and then back in. He was tackled easily for a safety, giving the Lions their first two points of the game.

* TE Daniel Fells leads the Rams in scoring this season, believe it or not. But that doesn't mean he's worth fantasy ownership. After all, he has just 160 receiving yards this season.

* Detroit has scored just 17 points over their last 10 quarters, mostly due to the absence of Calvin Johnson (knee).


GOING FORWARD

* The Rams, who had surrendered 30.1 points per game heading into Sunday's action, held the Lions to 10. That's more of an indictment on the Lions' offense, however, than a sign of things turning around for St. Louis.

* Steven Jackson entered the game ranked second in total yards from scrimmage and third in rushing. He should have no trouble staying on top in both categories, even on a bad team. S-Jax was excellent after initial contact on Sunday and plays with a good deal of pride.


#4. Chargers 24 Raiders 16


BEYOND THE BOX SCORE

* LaDainian Tomlinson isn't a threat for those explosive games anymore, but he showed flashes of that old form in this one. He goes off tackle, slips through an arm tackle and score. That looks pretty familiar. Still the matchups get a lot tougher starting with the Giants next week.

* Phillip Rivers' interception was not his fault. He threw a perfect pass to Vincent Jackson that he bobbled right into Chris Johnson's hands. Rivers was very sharp in the first half for the second straight week.

* If all the Raiders played as hard as Justin Fargas, they'd be in a lot better shape. He endears himself to his teammates and coaches with that hard running style. He was the clear feature back ahead of Michael Bush for the second time in three weeks.

GOING FORWARD

* Vincent Jackson is a top-5 receiver. The guy is just too talented, even for Nnamdi Asomougha.

* Tomlinson looked like he tweaked a wheel late when a defender dove into his leg. LT2 has had a lot of ankle problems, so keep an eye on that this week.

* Darren Sproles needs to be on benches, even in plus matchups. The Chargers simply aren't giving up on LT2 as their main back no matter what.

* The Raiders' passing game is just indescribable. Don't even think about wasting a roster spot on Chaz Schilens.


#3. Colts 18 49ers 14


BEYOND THE BOX SCORE

* Peyton Manning piled up big numbers and played very well in the second half, but he uncharacteristically misfired on multiple deep balls. Several were underthrown and several were just barely off-target, including a potential touchdown to Reggie Wayne.

* On his 64-yard touchdown run Frank Gore emerged from a pile up the middle, slammed through a safety, and then out-ran multiple defensive backs. Unfortunately he gained just 27 yards on his other 12 runs and got just four carries in the second half.

* Early on San Francisco's defensive line shockingly dominated Indianapolis' offensive line, leading to Manning being sacked more times than he'd been brought down in the first six games combined.

* Alex Smith's only interception probably should have been caught by Michael Crabtree, but the slant pass went off his hands and into the arms of Bob Sanders.

* In the first half Manning became just the fourth player in NFL history to complete 4,000 career passes.

GOING FORWARD

* San Francisco lost the battle and the war, watching as Nate Clements and Joe Staley both went down with potentially serious injuries. Clements may be done for the year with a fractured shoulder blade and Staley is headed for an MRI exam on his knee.

* Crabtree has quickly established himself as the focal point of the 49ers' passing game, and Sunday at least that cost Josh Morgan any chance of making an impact.

* For future reference, Joseph Addai throws lefty. Wayne was standing alone in the end zone when Addai's southpaw rainbow came his way to put the Colts up for good late. Addai also got a heavier-than-usual workload on the ground with Donald Brown inactive.

* Not only does Vernon Davis lead the NFL with seven touchdown catches, he has four scores in six quarters with Alex Smith at the helm..


#2. Vikings 38 Packers 26


BEYOND THE BOX SCORE

* Make no mistake: Brett Favre was booed mercilessly from the moment he stepped onto the field before the game. Later the Packers fans booed the home team too, but at no point did cheers come even close to out-numbering jeers for Favre.

* Aaron Rodgers was a sitting duck early as the Packers' offensive line struggled in protection, but he also exacerbated the problem by holding onto the ball too long. The protection wasn't a whole lot better in the second half, but Rodgers helped himself by frequently escaping sacks and scrambling to keep plays alive. Both touchdowns to third-string tight end Spencer Havner came on scrambles.

* Percy Harvin's 51-yard catch was an amazing play. He went up in traffic to haul in a deep ball down the middle, came down as three Packers defenders crashed into each other, surveyed the wreckage in front of him for a split second, and then dashed into the end zone over the bodies. Harvin also did tons of damage as a return man, continuing to make a huge impact as a rookie.

* Adrian Peterson cashed in a fourth-and-1 carry from the goal line, but was later stuffed on another fourth-and-1 try after Favre narrowly missed Bernard Berrian for a would-be touchdown.

GOING FORWARD

* Rodgers took a ton of big hits throughout the game and appeared to injure his foot late, which is unfortunate after he threw for 249 yards in the second half. Reports after the game had him limping noticeably in the locker room, which will be worth monitoring going into a favorable Week 9 matchup with the Bucs.

* Not only was Ahman Green active for the Packers, he returned kickoffs. He also saw the field quite a bit on obvious passing downs..


#1. Dolphins 30 Jets 25


Beyond the Box Score

* Thomas Jones and Shonn Greene appeared to be rotating fairly evenly until Greene's second-quarter fumble that Jason Taylor returned for a touchdown. Jones carried the load the rest of the way, though it's unlikely that Greene will stay in the doghouse when the Jets come out of the Week 9 bye.

* Ted Ginn became the first player in NFL history to record two kickoff returns of at least 100 yards in the same game. Brian Hartline started ahead of him at receiver, but he showed a glimpse of his immense potential in the return game. Three of the Dolphins' four touchdowns were provided by the defense and special teams.

* Mark Sanchez may already be the best play-fake artist in the NFL. His one-yard touchdown run came on a play-fake to Thomas Jones that was so convincing Dolphins defenders thought Jones' fumbled the ball while Sanchez was busy spiking it between his legs in the corner.

* Dustin Keller was targeted an amazing 13 times, including a diving touchdown grab and a clutch, leaping catch in traffic to put the Jets in position to possibly win the game with two minutes left. He could have had a second touchdown but was tackled just shy of the goal-line.

* The Jets effectively shut down Miami's Wildcat attack, but Ronnie Brown's numbers were mostly down due to the Jets' time of possession advantage. The three defense/special teams scores kept the ball out of the offense's hands.

Going Forward

* Chad Henne isn't worth a roster spot in most leagues.

* None of the Dolphins receivers or tight ends are viable fantasy options.

* Mark Sanchez is back to QB2 value with Jerricho Cotchery healthy again.

* Thomas Jones is as quick and explosive as ever, and he should remain a solid RB2 even with Shonn Greene rotating in. Greene needs to find the end zone weekly to be a viable fantasy option.

* Sanchez and Dustin Keller finally appear to be on the same page, which should make Keller a borderline TE1 going forward.