WEEK 12 GAME/FANTASY PREVIEW

NE PATRIOTS @ DET LIONS: NE: Two weeks straight the Pats have rolled through two playoff caliber teams, dinking and dunking them to death. This may not be the Pats we expect but they are getting things done and executing. Thanksgiving will give them a lot to be thankful for as they face Detroit's 27th ranked rush defense. Detroit is decent vs the pass at 16 but Indianapolis was far better vs the pass and we saw how the Brady to Welker connection dismantled them. Green-Ellis will have a great day here and could see two scores given the ease the Pats will have moving the ball. Hernandez is back also and should see a score and find plenty of room.

DET: Jhavid Best's turf toe is getting worse and has him as a non factor since week four when he aggravated it. Both he and Tony Scheffler whom will be nursing sore ribs, will be iffy plays on a very short week. Not good news against a Patriot run defense that has jumped to 17th with solid play the last few weeks. As always the Lions will be throwing often and though the Pats rank 31st vs the pass, they have been very opportunistic of late, picking off two of the better QB's in Roethlisberger and Manning on crucial drives. The Scheffler injury is good news for Pettigrew owners as he should see expanded work given the Best issues and the fact we could see Hill throw 40+ times.

The Pats will all but ignore the run game and drop extra guys back against the Detroit 6th pass offense. Pats easily win, NE 28-DET 20.

FANTASY STARTS: NE: Brady (280 yds. 3 TD) Green-Ellis (12 for 70 yds. 1 TD) Hernandez (3 for 45 yds. 1 TD) Welker ( 6 for 75 yds. 1 TD) Woodhead (80 total yards) Branch (4 for 60 yds. 1 TD)

DET: Pettigrew (5 for 60 yds. 1 TD) Johnson (6 for 85 yds. 1 TD) Burleson (4 for 50 yds.)

SLEEPER: Shaun Hill DET....He should be forced to throw from start to finish and while the Pats are bound to pick him off a few times, his big work load will produce yardage.

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NO SAINTS @ DAL COWBOYS: SAINTS: Had this game been scheduled two weeks ago we would look at the Dallas defense and expect a huge day, but Garrett has this 20th ranked pass defense and 22nd pass D playing inspired ball. The Saints really don't have many options even if Bush is back to 100% and will use their 2nd ranked pass offense often as usual. Colston seems to be hitting his stride the last few weeks and is emerging as Brees most trusted target. Given the Dallas strength at home and a whole new attitude, don't be surprised if Brees does struggle a bit and this game is closer than expectations.

 DAL: The Cowboys 4th ranked pass offense will face a stiffer challenge against the Saints 2nd ranked pass defense. The Saints can be run on effectively though so look for Felix Jones to be involved heavily as long as his hip issue isn't a problem. While the Saints do have a stout pass defense, they have yet to face a team with this many weapons on offense and will focus on taking Bryant out of the game if they can. Look for Roy Williams and Jones to see a lot of work because of coverages in the pass game. Dallas is playing their hearts out and this is a statement game at home. They will have plenty of mismatches as will the Saints so this one could be a high scoring shoot out.

 Dallas gets the upset, playing to the potential everyone expected of them this year. DAL 31-NO 28. 

FANTASY STARTS: NO: Brees (310 yds. 3 TD) Colston (6 for 95 yds. 1 TD) Moore (7 for 60 yds. 1 TD) Meachem (3 for 65 yds. 1 TD) Bush (70 total yards 1 TD) DAL: Jones (13 for 60 yds. 1 TD/ 4 for 40 yds.) Austin (5 for 70 yds. 1 TD) Bryant (4 for 55 yds. 1 TD) Williams (4 for 80 yds. 1 TD) 

SLEEPER: Witten DAL: while he has seen limited action recently, the Saints defense will be busy keeping all three wide outs in check leaving Witten with room. 

CIN BENGALS @ NY JETS: CIN: It can't get any worse for the Bengals, and you know it's bad when ego maniac T.O. says they all stink including him. Now they face the Jets whom are finding ways to beat everybody. While the Jets can be passed on, Cedric Benson will be up against the 5th ranked rush defense which is as fast as any he has seen. Benson only excels against weaker defenses and should have a quiet day. Palmer and his accuracy issues will face the 18th ranked pass defense, but the right side will all but be shut down by Revis. T.O. is the recipient of a trip to Revis island so we could see a lot of three wide sets that move him away from Revis. Ochocinco should see the most work of the two.

 NY JETS: Sanchez and the Jets seem to have a knack for pulling games out in the end and he should see plenty of time in the pocket since the Bengals have only 10 sacks on the year which is worst in the NFL. Odom does return for the Bengals, but it should mean very little against a secondary that allowed 3 TD passes to S. Johnson last week. LT and Greene have still been pretty quiet as of late but face the Bengals 23rd rush defense. 

The Jets simply have too many weapons for the Bengals to contain and Marvin Lewis is eyeing a similar fate as Chilly and Phillips. Jets hit the Bengals while they are down. NYJ 27-CIN 20. 

FANTASY STARTS: CIN: Ochocinco (5 for 80 yds. 1 TD) Shipley (6 for 55 yds. 1 TD) Owens (4 for 50 yds.) NYJ: Holmes (5 for 70 yds. 1 TD) LT ( 15 for 80 yds 1 TD/ 4 for 50 yds) Edwards ( 3 for 50 yds. 1 TD) Keller (4 for 45 yds. 1 TD) 

SLEEPER: Greene NYJ....While he is seeing an increased work load, this one smells like it could be over by the third Q, leaving Greene to wear the Bengals down late. He could be in line for a TD here. 

GB PACKERS @ ATL FALCONS: GB: Green Bay has been the tip of the ice berg for two coaches jobs in successive weeks and now travel to Atlanta in what will be Atlanta's toughest test since they met the Steelers. Donald Driver looked good vs the Vikes and should be closer to the norm this week. Even better has been the play of James Jones whom now adds a third threat for Rogers and should be the big wild card in this game. The Falcons are 23rd vs the pass and if there is one thing the Pack can do well is pass. They are 10th in pass offense and should come out gunning since Jackson will see little room vs the Falcons 6th rush defense. Atlanta is +10 in turnover margin which explains a big part of their success. However, Rogers is good enough and accurate enough to avoid mistakes. 

ATL: The Falcons are one of the most offensively balanced teams, ranking 13 in passing and 7th in rushing. Where they will find most success is in the run game if Turner can get it going and sneak away from Matthews who has been in beast mode for the Packers. While the Pack are ranked 15th in passing D, Tremon Williams is one of the most under rated CB's and is just as solid a player as Woodson. Both White and Jenkins face some of the best coverage they have all year and it will be on Turner to force the Packers to bring another body up and give the WR's room. Look for the Falcons to get Turner involved very early and often. This will be one of the better games this weekend and will wind up a win for the Packers. Nobody has been able to contain Matthews and the Falcons have yet to face as balanced a defense this year.

 Rogers should be able to pick apart this secondary, forcing the Falcons to abandon the run game. GB 28-ATL 20. 

STARTS: GB: Rogers (300 yds. 3 TD) Jennings ( 6 for 75 yds. 1 TD) Jones (4 for 60 yds. 1 TD) Driver ( 6 for 55 yds. 1 TD) Jackson (11 for 40 yds. 1 TD) ATL: Ryan (250 yds. 1 TD) White (4 for 60 yds. 1 TD) Jenkins (3 for 45 yds.) Turner (13 for 65 yds. 1 TD/ 4 for 45 yds.) 

SLEEPER: Gonzales ATL....He will be a boom or bust candidate this week given he should be asked to stay in more and help block Matthews. However, the Packers aggressive defense style could also allow him to slip out and see a field of green and a sneaky score. 

PIT STEELERS @ BUFF BILLS: PIT: The Steelers man handled the Raiders last week and now face an offense even weaker. On the defensive side, the Bills do have a good secondary ranked 9th and good at not allowing the long ball. But the Bills are 32nd vs the run and face the Steeler 11th rush offense behind Mendenhall. He should have an effective day here, but like most Bills opponents, the effectiveness of the run game will open lanes for Wallace and Ward to find the end zone when close.

 BUFF: The Bills have put two in a row together but let's face it, it was against two teams worse than they are. The Bills do have the talent to make this one interesting and we can expect another good fantasy day for Fitzpatrick since he will no doubt be throwing from start to finish. The Steelers own the top Rush defense in the NFL and have shut down better backs that Jackson. The Steelers are 25th vs the pass, so look for this to be the focus, making Jackson a possible bench candidate if you have options. The Steelers are tied for 2nd in sacks, so while they do allow the yardage, they can make it a long day if able to get penetration against a Bills offensive line that is weak. 

While Fitz and Johnson will put up points, it will be tempered by how well the line blocks for him. Unless the Steelers under estimate the Bills, this one goes as expected. PIT 24- BUF 17.

 FANTASY STARTS: PIT: Mendenhall (16 for 110 yds. 1 TD/ 2 for 20 yds.) Wallace (4 for 55 yds. 1 TD) Ward (6 for 70 yds. 1 TD) BUF: Fitzpatrick (280 yds. 2 TD) Johnson ( 6 for 90 yds. 1 TD) Evans ( 4 for 70 yds. 1 TD) 

SLEEPER: Miller PIT...He has been relegated to a fourth option on offense, but does pose some value here since the Bills Whitner can take away Ward from those short routes he runs making Miller the second option in the pass game.

 CAR PANTHERS @ CLE BROWNS: CAR: Everyone knows the Panthers are this years whipping boy and exactly what will happen at QB this week is any ones guess. Jonathan Stewarts status is still up in the air and with Goodson's second solid performance, look for him to be the offense against the Browns 21st rush defense. Cleveland is 22nd vs the pass, so there is a chance Steve Smith flirts with a score.

 CLE: While Carolina does own the 7th ranked pass defense, it may not be as much a factor since Delhomme looks to get the start vs his former team while McCoy nurses an ankle sprain. Nobody is sure to know the defense like Delhomme and Hillis should walk over the Carolina 24th run defense making Delhomme that much more effective even with his limited options.

 There really isn't much to debate here, it's a good team against the league worst. CLE 20- CAR 14. 

FANTASY STARTS: CAR: Goodson (17 for 80 yds. 1 TD) Smith ( 4 for 60 yds. 1 TD) CLE: Hillis (14 for 110 yds. 2 TD) Watson (5 for 80 yds.) 

SLEEPER: Stuckey CLE.....Delhomme is far from a gun slinger and if Carolina is effective at denying Watson, Stuckey becomes the primary target in the minimalist pass game.

 JACK JAGUARS @ NY GIANTS: JAC: Not that he was producing all that much, but Simms-Walker will be out a few weeks, and that boosts Osgood's value big time. Osgood immediately was effective last week and now is a sure fire guy Gerard will look to is Thomas is covered. This week though they face a stingy Giants secondary that ranks 4th. The G men are also 4th vs the run but have had issues against the top tier backs. The Giants are looking to return to their winning ways and Coughlin is a good bet to sell out and ensure MJD doesn't beat them. It will be on Gerrard to make it happen but does struggle on the road at times. 

NYG: The Giants also lost a receiver last week though theirs more costly. Hakeem Nicks is slated to miss three weeks which not only puts the Giants in a bind but your fantasy team as well. Three weeks plus one week for him to get back into the flow means he probably won't be reliable until the last week of the fantasy playoffs. What could have been a huge week vs the Jags 28th pass defense becomes a bit more even keeled. Regardless of the Bradshaw fumbles, he is their best runner and will be needed here since the Giants are running out of play makers. Jacksonville ranks 19th vs the run so look for a good Jacobs-Bradshaw split that tries to wear down the Jags. Anyone remember pre season stud Victor Cruz? Maybe this is where he gets his shot since the Giants are down to Manningham alone. 

Both teams are on equal footing but defense wins games, and the Jags are a one trick pony. The Giants contain MJD and win a low scorer. NYG 20- JAC 13.

 FANTASY STARTS: JAC: MJD (14 for 65 1 TD/4 for 25 yds) NYG: Manningham (6 for 70 yds. 1 TD) Bradshaw (11 for 65 yds.) Jacobs (13 for 70 yds. 1 TD) 

SLEEPER: V. Cruz NYG.....This guy was sensational in the preseason and did well vs starters as well, not just second teamers. He has speed to burn and this is a favorable match up for Coughlin to break him in. 

MIN VIKINGS @ WASH REDSKINS: MIN: Much like Phillips in Dallas, the players lost all respect for Childress a long time ago, finally prompting Wilf to fire him. Now comes Leslie Frazier and echos of Dallas begin to play. The team respects Frasier and what he's built with this defense. Expect him to allow Favre some room and to open things up a bit. Most likely he will try and pound Peterson of course, but something tells me he let's Favre loose. While not necessarily a good thing, it may make the Vikings a bit more unpredictable. This week they face one of the worst secondaries in Washington, ranked 29th. The Skins are equally as bad vs the rush, ranking 28th. All your Vikings make good plays this week and now with Rice getting a game under his belt he should get a score. 

WASH: The Skins stepped up on the road vs the Titans but will now face a tougher defense ranked 13th vs the pass and 7th vs the rush. Portis is officially out, leaving Torain and Williams as the options. Mcnabb should have some success through the air and it will be another big passing work load for him since the Washington run game ranks 22nd. Armstrong should be the fantasy guy here since the Vikings are strong defending other top wide outs not named Jennings.

 The Vikings do their best Dallas impression and let loose on a sporadic Redskin team. MIN 28-WAS 20. 

FANTASY STARTS: MIN: All you players. Peterson has the highest scoring day of the bunch though. WAS: Williams (12 for 55 yds. 1 TD/4 for 40 yds.) Moss (4 for 60 yds.) Armstrong (5 for 85 yds. 1 TD) SLEEPER: Cooley WAS....He will be depended on heavily with Allen pressuring Mcnabb all day. 

TENN TITANS @ HOU TEXANS: TEN: Vince Young goes to the IR, shutting him down for the year in what may have been his final game as a Titan. Collins comes in and has the best possible opponent vs the Texans 32nd pass defense. This of all games should be Moss' day to score and Bo Scaife should also get fantasy love as well. The Texans are middle of the pack vs the run, but it's CJ and middle of the pack means a two score 100 yard day for him. All your Titans are starter worthy this week, pure and simple.

 HOU: Schaub seemed to suffer no set back on his knee this week and should post solid numbers vs the Titan 27th ranked secondary. The Titans are far better vs the run at 11th, but Foster has been a beast at home and is tough no matter who the opponent. The Titans do have a good front four and have applied solid pressure on QB's logging 30 sacks. No big deal for Schaub though since all he will need to do is lob the ball up to Andre Johnson who should return to his normal big days.

 This one goes to whoever can score that one last TD vs suspect secondaries. Since Collins is not as much of a deep threat thrower as Schaub, Texans get it. HOU 31-TEN 28.

 FANTASY STARTS: All your players in this game for either team. It should be a high scoring affair, spreading the double digit goodness. 

SLEEPER: Derik Ward HOU and Javon Ringer TEN....Both guys could see expanded time in relief of their lead backs whom will have heavy work loads. Ward has already scored in similar type games and while Ringer doesn't get a lot of touches, he makes the most of them here while Houston is on their heels. 

MIA DOLPHINS @ OAKLAND RAIDERS: MIA: After laying an egg last Thursday, the Dolphins get a chance to regroup and face an Oakland team that took a beating of their own in Pittsburgh. Oakland is 25th vs the run and we could see good days for both Brown and Williams. Sporano will likely go run heavy regardless since Marshall will be a questionable start and Thigpen was humbled last week. Look for Brown to see more action in the pass game as well with a return to a heavier use of the wildcat.

 OAK: Asumogha is believed to have a shot at playing this week but not much has been confirmed as of yet. Campbell is so far likely to get the start but regardless who is back there, the Miami 6th pass defense will be an issue. Like Miami, the Raiders should elect to go run heavy vs Miami's 20th rush defense. Ball control with middle safe route passing will be keys for both teams. 

Both teams are similar with their styles of play but Oakland has the more formidable ground game and has proven it. OAK-20-MIA 17.

 FANTASY STARTS: MIA: Brown (13 for 70 yds 1 TD/ 5 for 45 yds) Williams (11 for 55 yds.) Bess (5 for 60 yds.) Fasano (4 for 45 yds) Hartline (6 for 50 yds. 1 TD) OAK: McFadden (16 for 95 yds. 1 TD/3 for 40 yds.) Miller (4 for 55 yds. 1 TD) 

SLEEPER: J. Ford OAK....He was kept quiet vs the Steelers, but everybody was. Look for him to bounce back and have the better match up as Murphy deals with Vontae Davis. 

KC CHIEFS @ SEA SEAHAWKS: KC: Thomas Jones got back into the flow of things vs Arizona and Charles was also effective in limited duty since Jones had the hot hand. Seattle is 14th vs the run, but they will most likely be without their top CB Truffant (concussion) which will allow more options in the pass game. KC's weak secondary (24th) also gets a breather since it looks like Mike Williams will be out after hearing a pop in the bottom of his foot last week. Carrol isn't saying much, but it sounds serious so look for KC to be effective in the pass and use the ground game to keep a lead in the second half. Both backs will be solid plays once again. 

SEA: No Mike Williams will mean an expanded role for Butler and Carlon since Hasselbeck will be the key to scoring against the KC 24th pass defense. Lynch will have a tougher time vs the 12th rush defense of the Chiefs, leaving Forsett as the guy you want here because of his catch skills. Look for a heavy pass attack involving getting Forsett into space.

 Seattle lost it's top two guys at skill positions on both sides of the ball and KC gets the win in a hostile environment. KC 24-SEA 17.

 FANTASY STARTS: KC: Jones (15 for 55 yds. 1 TD) Charles (11 for 65 yds. 1 TD/ 3 for 40 yds.) Bowe ( 4 for 60 yds. 1 TD) SEA: Butler (5 for 70 yds. 1 TD) Forsett (9 for 40 yds./6 for 55 yds. 1 TD) SLEEPER: Carlson SEA....Carlson is about the only dependable option for Hasselbeck and could see a big day if the Hawks get down fast.

 PHI EAGLES @ CHI BEARS: PHI: Vick has now gone 220 passes without a pick which would have been unimaginable if we were not seeing it for ourselves. Both he and McCoy have also propelled the Eagles run game to 3rd in the NFL but now face a hot Bears team ranked 2nd vs the run and 12th vs the pass. Reid will look to test the secondary early and get McCoy some running room. 

CHI: Much like themselves, the Eagles are stout vs the run (8th) and 17th vs the pass. The Eagles will be without Assante Samuel, who helped this pass defense become respectable when he returned after missing time. Now without him, the Eagles face the threat of playing catch up for the first time since Vick has returned. Look for Martz to also test the secondary, but more out of need than want. Forte has been weak on the ground but has picked it up of late. Even with the run game getting a footing, it will be tough to find room here. The Bears defense seems to be hitting it's peak and they are as tough as can be at home.

 The Eagles have 19 picks on the year but missing Samuel will hurt, especially vs a pass happy Martz. Chicago wins a tough defensive game. CHI 20-PHI 17. 

FANTASY STARTS: PHI: Vick (260 yds. 2 TD/ 3 for 50 yds.) Jackson ( 4 for 89 yds. 1 TD) Maclin ( 5 for 70 yds.) McCoy (12 for 40 yds./ 5 for 55 yds.) CHI: Forte (10 for 40 yds./ 7 for 65 yds. 1 TD) Knox (5 for 65 yds. 1 TD) 

SLEEPER: Hester CHI...With focus placed on Knox and Forte, Olsen and Hester will be the ones with favorable match ups and opportunity to win those battles. Hester's special teams ability of course adds value, but he has been evolving the last few weeks and can get hot.

 STL RAMS @ DEN BRONCOS: RAMS: The defense let one go vs Atlanta and now the Rams who have road issues travel cross country to face a Denver team with steam to blow off after a poor Monday night showing. The Broncos are 26th vs the run and good vs the pass despite what we saw Monday so look for a heavy dose of Jackson. This could be one of those times where SJax has a career day in both rushing and receiving. Sproles and Tolbert each had great success in their roles, and SJax is both of them rolled into one. The Rams are 26th in pass offense and outside of Gibson have no decent deep option. Look for a ton of SJax with Amendola in short yardage situations. 

DEN: The Broncos run game fizzled once again after starting strong vs San Diego and the pass game wasn't much better. The Broncos were pressured often and Orton will see a similar type of defensive plan in the Rams. This will be another bad week for Moreno, as the Rams are 9th vs the run. The good new is that the Rams 21st ranked pass defense is just what Orton and company need after being shit down on Monday. We should see a return to the air show in this one and expect Orton to hit 300 here. 

While the Rams will make a good go at it early, the Broncos excel at the deep ball and it is too much for the Rams. DEN 28-STL 17. 

FANTASY STARTS: STL: Jackson (16 for 90 yds. 1 TD/6 for 55 yds. 1 TD) 

DEN: Orton (310 yds. 3 TD) Lloyd ( 7 for 95 yds. 1 TD) Gaffney ( 4 for 55 yds. 1 TD) Royal ( 6 for 70 yds. 1 TD) 

SLEEPER: Gibson STL....while not much is to be expected of him, the Broncos know if the Rams get to the red zone Bradford looks to Amendola and Bailey has the ability to keep him blanketed leaving Gibson with a possible short yard score.

TB BUCCANEERS @ BAL RAVENS: TB: Nobody would have guessed the Bucs would be in the divisional race, much less the NFC playoff race, but at 7-3 here we are. After shutting out the 49ers on the road, the Bucs secondary has risen to 3rd in the NFL and have 15 interceptions. Offensively, the run game which was stagnant and in the bottom half behind Williams has risen to 12th behind Legarette Blount. Williams has become the 3rd down/4th Quarter guys and has found success allowing the pass game to open up because of the run effectiveness. Rookie Mike Williams is at the top of his class amongst receivers, battling Dez Bryant for a shot at ROY. The Bucs have lost their previous 2 matches against playoff teams in Pittsburgh and New Orleans, but in each one Cadillac was the lead back and the Bucs had no run game to speak of. Now they bring a much more effective and balanced offense to Baltimore to face their 10th rated rush defense and 11th pass defense. This will be the best test yet for this young team to see how it will match with some savvy veterans. The Bucs will of course focus on the run to open the pass, and are getting some players back just in time. Sammy Stroughter and C Jeff Faine both returned the last two weeks and will be needed to step up here. Look for the Bucs to possibly get creative, using Josh Johnson in the wildcat formation the Bucs have been testing out the last few weeks. Where they will win is in the pass game where other teams like Buffalo have had success. 

BALT: The Ravens have been playing like the Super Bowl contenders we expected and bring a very balanced attack against the Bucs 3rd ranked pass defense but have a great match up against the Bucs 30th rush defense. The Bucs schemed well last week and held Frank Gore to just 60 total yards which is a feat few teams have been able to do. This week should see a similar scheme as they try to limit Ray Rice's abilities. The Ravens will face one of the stiffer secondaries since the Jets, so will look to test the ground game immediately with a healthy dose of Rice. Houshmenzadeh broke out last week vs the tough Carolina secondary and should play the wild card here as well. The Ravens have multiple weapons on offense and Housh with Heap are the two factors that challenge any secondaries depth. 

Baltimore has the home crowd and how hard this game is for them will depend on what Bucs rush defense shows up. The one from last week or the one which earned that 30th rush defense ranking. The home team has the edge until we see other wise. BAL 23-TB 20.

FANTASY STARTS: TB: Blount (14 for 60 yds. 1 TD) M. Williams (4 for 70 yds. 1 TD)

BAL: Rice (13 for 70 yds. 1 TD/ 4 for 45 yds) Boldin (4 for 65 yds. 1 TD) 

SLEEPER: Todd Heap BALT....The Bucs athletic LB core will be focused on Ray Rice, leaving some mismatches for Heap to take advantage of. 

SD CHARGERS @ IND COLTS: SD: The Chargers November madness hopes to continue this week against a Colts secondary ranked 10th. Rivers showed he doesn't need to throw for 300 yards to win, instead dumping off to his receivers who amassed a ton of YAC. The Chargers may be without Patrick Crayton on this short week, but are expecting Vincent Jackson to return opposite Malcom Floyd. Rivers has already proven he can do it regardless who he's throwing to, and the return of Floyd and Jackson is going to test the Colts ranking. The man to watch however will be Mike Tolbert whom has over shadowed rookie Ryan Mathews with his hard nosed running and 8 TD's in 10 games. Tolbert is the one you can depend on and will carry great value here since the Colts have the 31st ranked rush defense. As I said, it doesn't matter who the opponent is, so look for SD to keep doing it's thing with Rivers and using the play action for some deep connections and catch the Colts sleeping. Gates is hoping to return this week and only further complicates things for the Colts.

IND: Peyton came up just short last week and is a good bet to bounce back this week. It won't be easy though vs the SD top pass defense which just flustered Kyle Orton and Denver's 5th ranked pass offense. Manning should see some pressure most the game and will be without Austin Collie who runs those under routes Manning relies on when things get dicey. He will instead continue to rely on Jacob Tamme who has saved Manning's hide on numerous drives and is the only sure handed receiver past Reggie Wayne. It should be Donald Brown again this week, and Brown, who is already not the greatest play, faces the SD 3rd ranked run defense. Manning will be forced to throw often, and like Rivers, it really doesn't matter who the opponent is, Manning will find the holes in a defense. Garcon will need to have another solid game if the Colts hope to pull this one out against another playoff caliber team for the second straight week.

This will be a great game of strategy and QB play to watch, but the only factor which tilts the scales is Tolbert vs the Colts rush defense. Tolbert should be able to find running lanes and scores the difference maker. SD 31-IND 28.

FANTASY STARTS: SD: Rivers (280 yds. 3 TD) Floyd (5 for 70 yds. 1 TD) Jackson (6 for 65 yds. 1 TD) Gates (8 for 90 yds. 1 TD) Tolbert (13 for 80 yds. 1 TD)

IND: Wayne ( 5 for 80 yds. 1 TD) Tamme (7 for 90 yds. 1 TD) Garcon ( 3 for 55 yds. 1 TD) Manning (260 yds. 3 TD) Brown (14 for 50 yds./ 3 for 25 yds. 1 TD)

SLEEPER: D. Sproles SD....Sproles pass catch/run abilities always keeps the defenses guessing and is a great decoy for Rivers. Look for Sproles and his speed on turf to be a difference maker and keep the Colts honest from selling out. 

WEEK 11 FANTASY/GAME PREVIEW

CHICAGO BEARS @ MIAMI DOLPHINS: Miami is crossed between Chad Henne or Tyler Thigpen as to who the starter will be and will most likely split reps this week. Seeing how Henne was benched for Pennington to start with, Thigpen should get the start. Thigpen brought more energy to the team and you could see the difference once he got the call. This should help Brandon Marshall's value since Thigpen won't be as hesitant to make thee throws. It will be on him as the Bears 2nd ranked rush defense will limit Brown and Williams who have found better footing the last few games but are still not what they were last year. The Bears are middle of the pack vs the pass and will focus on Marshall but don't have the depth to keep up with Hartline and Bess. If Thigpen is the call, also keep an eye on Fasano who you can bet will be looked to often. Thigpen loved Gonzo in KC and will do so here.
BEARS: Forte finally had a decent day on the ground and it showed what an effective Cutler can do when he limits turn overs. The Dolphins are 6th vs the pass behind Vontae Davis and will evvectively shut Knox out. Hester finally broke out of his slump last week but don't expect a reproduction here. Look for the Bears to use Forte in a similar fashion as they did vs Minnesota but bet on more pass catching. Gregg Olsen is another one who should see similar production to last week and will be the key to moving the chains. I've preached all year how when he is used the Bears play well and Martz may have finally figured that out.

Miami seems to love losing at home and the Bears should be confident. It's always easier to come into the game with no expectations than it is facing a team planning on you. Thigpen gets overwhelmed here and Bears win. CHI 23-MIA 17

FANTASY STARTS: CHI: Forte (15 for 70 yds. 1 TD/ 5 for 55 yds.) Olsen (5 for 65 yds. 1 TD)
MIA: Brown (14 for 55 yds. 1 TD) Fasano ( 6 for 70 yds. 1 TD)
SLEEPER: Hartline MIA....he always seems to get the sneaky TD against tough defenses.

BALTIMORE RAVENS @ CAROLINA PANTHERS: BAL: The slow start hurt them and it affected their game plan. Atlanta has been one of the toughest teams to beat at home and were able to keep Baltimore from the big plays. Derik Mason stepped up despite being less than full speed and the Ravens gave you about what was expected overall. This week they get the team everyone hopes to face in Carolina whom has the worst pass offense in the NFL and is 24th in the run. Baltimore should have possession often and the Defense should be projected to be top scorers in fantasy this week in their category. Carolina does have the 5th ranked pass defense and is good at taking away your top WR, so expect Heap and Mason to have better days than normal. Boldin will get his, but the other two should see more targets. Ray Rice should have a field day vs this 27th ranked rush defense and will have one of his better days of the season.
CAR: The Panthers should wind up with Pike this week because they have limited options. Steve Smith is no better than a WR #3 and should be considered bench worthy if you have a better match up on your bench. Goodson did produce last week but it was vs the Bucs horrible rush defense and not Baltimore's 8th ranked D. The match up and possible return of Williams and Stewart make Goodson a bad play overall. Nobody on this team is worthy of a start unless you have to.
Baltimore might as well make golf course reservations if they lose this week. BAL 31- CAR 13.

FANTASY STARTS: BAL: Rice ( 17 for 90 yds. 1 TD/ 3 for 45 yds.) Boldin ( 4 for 70 yds. 1 TD) Mason ( 5 for 85 yds. 1 TD) Heap ( 3 for 50 yds. 1 TD) Flacco ( 290 yds. 3 TD)
CAR: Smith ( 4 for 50 yds.)

HOUSTON TEXANS @ NY JETS: HOU: The Texans are almost out of contention and it won't get any easier here. The offense has the play making ability but their league worst pass defense makes even the Jags look great. The Jets are 5th vs the run but can be beat through the air when staying away from Revis island. Revis' ability will allow the Jets to bring extra heat and force Schaub into checkdown and short routes since Johnson will have one of his tougher tests of the year. Foster will have a big day through the air along with either Jones or Walter who seems to have the hot hand. Though he will be lining up across from Cromartie, Walter has the ability to shake him. With Daniels status, expect to see a lot of three man sets to spread the field and allow Foster some room to sneak out in the flats. Keep an eye on Schaub's status after being in the hospital with bursa sac inflamation. (knee joint)
NYJ: Two overtime wins in two weeks behind Sanchez is boosting his confidence and he is using the weapons he has efficiently. He faces the easiest defense he's seen yet so it's a matter of how well the running game does which could limit monster game potential. Greene has slowly looked to be regaining that midseason form we saw last year and is running behind another older back this year. Don't be surprised to see Ryan limit Tomlinson's carries the next few weeks if Greene has a hot hand so that LT is fresh come playoff time. He's a good stash for your playoffs if this does happen. Houston is 15th vs the run so Greene may see extended use regardless if the Jets get up big.
Houston will keep this game closer than expected but come 4th quarter, as in most games, the defense will allow enough to get them beat. NYJ 28-HOU 21.

FANTASY STARTS: HOU: Johnson (4 for 65 yds. 1 TD) Foster (12 for 45 yds. 1 TD/ 6 for 65 yds) Walter (4 for 55 yds. 1 TD)
NYJ: Tomlinson (13 for 55 yds. 1 TD/ 3 for 25 yds) Edwards ( 5 for 70 yds. 1 TD) Holmes (6 for 95 yds. 1 TD) Keller (5 for 55 yds.) Greene (11 for 60 yds.)
SLEEPER: J. Jones HOU....Walter loves to disappear after having good games and Jones may face the weakest of the Jets corners. He could wind up stealing Walter's numbers and more.

BUFFALO BILLS @ CINCINNATTI BENGALS: BUFF: The Bills got the monkey off their backs but now travel to Cinci where there is equal frustration but better talent. The Bills pass game has tapered off a bit and the absence of Parrish will allow teams to focus more on Johnson and Evans. The Bengals are 12th vs the pass and don't allow the big plays the Bills have had some success with down field. Fred Jackson comes off his biggest day of the year and will be the only guy in town until CJ Spiller recovers from what seems to be a serious injury. Jackson will post good numbers here vs the Bengal 22nd rush defense and should be good for a score or two. The Bills will ride him often this week if they want to keep this one close.
BENGALS: Cedric Benson should be able to shake his down year this week facing Buffalo's worst in the NFL rush D. Not only is this good news for him, but expect the passing game to be more effective as well as a result. The Bengals have lacked any serious run threat all year and it has allowed teams to sit back on Ocho and TO. The Bills do rank 7th vs the pass, but have been burned by the split end position all year which should be good news for Ocho provided his shoulder doesn't swell up on him this week. Carson Palmer has started to show it may be time to look for a QB and needs a solid game to get back on track.
The Bengals are almost at the point of playing for pride but have better talent and match up well here. CIN 24-BUFF 20.

FANTASY STARTS: BUFF: Jackson (16 for 85 yds. 1 TD/ 3 for 25 yds.) S. Johnson (6 for 70 yds. 1 TD)
CIN: Benson (16 for 95 yds. 1 TD) T.O. ( 6 for 70 yds. 1 TD) Ocho (4 for 90 yds. 1 TD)
SLEEPER: B. Scott CIN...Buffalo has a knack for allowing second backs have productive fantasy days. Scott averages more YPC than Benson in limited duties and could be good for a score.

OAKLAND RAIDERS @ PITTSBURGH STEELERS: OAK: The Raiders face their first real test of the year on the road against the league's top rush defense. The Steelers have only allowed 4 rushing TD's all year and now they face Oakland's 2nd rush offense. The Raiders have had the extra bye week to prepare and get healthy for this one so this could be a better battle than expected. This should be a true test of where Oakland is since they have yet to face a defense as tough as this one. The Raiders needed the time off too, with Miller and Murphy both recouping from injury. So far, Murphy looks like the safest bet to play but the Raiders have found a gem possibly in Jacoby Ford. Oakland will need to get their 25th ranked pass game going and this should be the focus of their attack since Pittsburgh is 26th vs the pass. Look for Oakland to use the pass to set up the run and find creative ways to get Mcfadden into space. If Miller and Murphy return, the Steelers could have more than their secondary can handle. Look for Ford to be the go to guy until Miller and Murphy knock off the rust.
PITT: The pass game has slowly improved under Ben but it's been more a result of effectiveness than anything else. Not since New Orleans has Roethlisberger faced a pass defense like Oakland's #2 rated. Unlike the Raiders, the run game will help set up the pass since Oakland struggles with better backs. Another possible problem may be if Hines Ward is forced to take a game off after minor concussion. While he says he will be fine, the NFL has put pressure on teams to force testing before a player is cleared. Given how bad Ward will be needed, he will probably be given a green light. The guy to watch here will be Randle-El as well as Heath Miller. Oakland is good enough to limit Wallace and shut down Ward and will try to pressure Ben into errant throws. Thus leaving Miller and Randle-El beneficiaries of extra targets. Mendenhall will probably see more touches than normal and be the go to guy.

If all the Raiders are healthy this one should come down to the end in a low scoring affair but I will err on the side of the home team though an upset here would not suprise. PITT 20-OAK 17.

FANTASY STARTS: OAK: McFadden (12 for 50 yds./ 5 for 65 yds. 1 TD) Ford ( 4 for 70 yds. 1 TD)
PITT: Mendenhall ( 17 for 95 yds. 1 TD/ 3 for 25 yds.) Miller ( 5 for 55 yds. 1 TD) Wallace ( 3 for 60 yds.)
SLEEPERS: Randle-El PITT....as stated, he has been a surprise scorer as of late and is often the forgotten man from defenses. Look for a possible score catching Oakland off guard.

CLEVELAND BROWNS @ JACKSONVILLE JAGS: BROWNS: Peyton Hillis has torn through every team he's faced regardless of how tough the defense. Things get easier here vs the Jags 21st rush Defense. While McCoy has had limited options, Ben Watson has been the only consistent pass threat and faces the Jags even worse pass defense ranked 29th. Look for Jacksonville to try it's best to limit Hillis this week and while it will be futile, it will continue to allow Watson room to run. Cleveland has only scored 7 passing TD's this year which ties them at the bottom but this is the week if ever they make it 8.
JAGS: Riding high after a last second Hail Mary answered, the Jags take on a Browns defense 24th vs the pass and 19th against the rush. MJD as always will be fed till he collapses but the Jags 27th pass game could find life after last week's heroics. Gerrard has actually been a consistent fantasy producer the last few weeks and it should continue here. Since Simms-Walker is an every other game producer and best at home, he should be the guy Gerrard tries to get going. Mercedes Lewis though continues to be the only trust worthy receiving option.

The Browns tend to lack a little on the road and match up well with the Jags. However, the Jags have MJD going full throttle of late and are a force when Gerrard is hot. No Josh Cribbs puts the Browns forcing longer drives with bad field position. JAGS 28-CLE 20.

FANTASY STARTS: CLE: Hillis (16 for 95 yds. 1 TD) Watson ( 6 for 70 yds. 1 TD)
JAGS: MJD (14 for 80 yds 1 TD./ 4 for 50 yds. 1 TD) Lewis (4 for 65yds. 1 TD) Simms Walker (5 for 80 yds. 1 TD)
SLEEPER: Chansi Stuckey CLE...he's done it with the Jets and has proven he can be a legit threat when given the call. This is his opportunity and he should make the most of it. He's also a savvy vet who is a purer WR than Cribbs. Look for a score here.

DETROIT LIONS @ DALLAS COWBOYS: DET: Shaun Hill continues to put up numbers but fall short of getting the wins. The Lions as a whole can manufacture yards but like Houston always find a way to allow teams the last shot. They are 7th in passing but Best and his 3.1 yards per carry have been bad enough that Kevin Smith has taken a good share of the carries away making it a time share. They face a Dallas secondary that has collapsed as of late, falling to 21st and is also 23rd vs the run. Garrett had this defense playing as fast as they have and beat an opponent far better last week. Dallas will continue to do what they do best which is throw the ball often. You can expect the normal numbers from your Lions, but I see Best as having a better game than normal through the air and scoring. Pettigrew will also be another threat once the Lions get to the red zone and seems to be Hill's favorite target where Stafford looked more for the long ball.
DAL: Felix Jones did it through his pass catching abilities last week and will do it on the ground this week against the Lions 26th rush defense. What was telling was how Garrett used his roster by putting them in a position to succeed based on their talents. Jones is clearly the back you want and has a decent playoff schedule so scoop him up if able. Look for Roy Williams to rebound against the Lions 17th ranked secondary  as well. Kitna doesn't have the arm to toss the long ball any more so Dez and Austin have been doing it with their run after the catch abilities. Roy is more of a intermediate route possession guy but should find room while the Lions are caught trying to cover the other weapons. Garrett's first home game as head coach should turn into a feast for your Cowboys. P.S. Back when Jerry was saying Phillips was safe and "his guy" I was saying it would turn out otherwise. Three weeks later....

Dallas gives the home crowd something to cheer about and there's nothing worse than a confident Cowboy team. DAL 34-DET 21.

FANTASY STARTS: DET: Johnson (5 for 70 yds. 1 TD) Pettigrew (4 for 50 yds. 1 TD) Best (11 for 45 yds./ 4 for 55 yds. 1 TD)
DAL: Jones (14 for 80 yards 1 TD/ 3 for 35 yds.) Austin (6 for 80 yds. 1 TD) Williams (4 for 50 yds. 1 TD) Bryant (6 for 85 yds. 1 TD)
SLEEPER: Barber DAL....Marion has scored in 3 straight games against the Lions and may see a goal line run since the Cowboys will be there often.

GREEN BAY PACKERS @ MINNESOTA VIKINGS: GB: The Pack had a bye week to rest Donald Driver's quad and prepare for a Vikings team that has all but packed it up after losing to the Bears. While the Vikings are 9th is pass defense, Rodgers and crew carry the 10th pass offense. The Vikings can be beat through the air and Rodgers proved it their last meeting throwing for 295 yards and 2 Touchdowns. Brandon Jackson was getting comfortable before the break and faces a Viking defense ranked 9th in this category as well. They are stronger vs the run regardless of ranking and though the bye may have helped Jackson rest his legs, the time off may have actually cooled him off a bit. Jackson did score last time out as well but seems to be averaging less than 60 YPG the last 4 games. Look for about the same here with maybe a little through the air. James Jones could also continue to get the reps here since he has been very productive and the Pack will want to ease Driver back into game play. This could be a changing of the guard game if Jones produces well again.
VIKINGS: Latest word is that Sidney Rice may be playing contract games and could possibly not play the rest of the season since his contract is up this year. The last thing he wants to do is re-injure himself and play in meaningless games so he may be wanting to take his chances in getting a contract next year based on last year. The Vikings do need him and could offer him some type of incentives if he does hit the field by dangling a contract offer sheet in front of him. The worries on Percy Harvin should be put to rest at this point as he has scored double digit points since Moss' departure. They are finding ways to get him the ball and despite a nagging ankle, has been able to produce come game time. What hurts this team most is their -11 giveaway/takeaway ratio caused mostly by Favre returning to being Favre this year. Berrian looks like he will be able to go after sitting out last week but hasn't really been a factor regardless. Schiancoe continues to get a big boost because of the lack of any options other than Harvin in the pass game. Green Bay is 20th vs the run so the Vikings will look to pound Peterson but the Packers are fast up front and will focus on stopping him since he was most their offense last meeting. Shiancoe and Harvin will see plenty of targets as will Peterson through the air.

Green Bay is clearly in better position to win this game, but the Vikings do play better at home and their backs are against the wall in a possible season ending game should they lose. While normally I am big on the bye week, the Vikings could just throw caution to the air and let it loose catching the Packers by surprise much like Washington did in week 5. Favre's added incentive to beat the Pack pays off. MIN 24-GB 21.

FANTASY STARTS: GB: Jennings (6 for 70 yds. 1 TD) Jackson (15 for 55 yds. 1 TD) Rodgers (250 yds. 2 TD)
MIN: Peterson (18 for 80 yds. 1 TD/ 5 for 45 yds) Shiancoe (5 for 65 yds. 1 TD) Harvin (4 for 60 yds. 1 TD)
SLEEPER: J. Jones GB....The Vikings will limit Jennings and Jackson forcing Rodgers to look for Jones and Jordy Nelson. Their last meeting was Jones coming out party for the year where he caught 4 balls for 107 yards.

TAMPA BAY BUCS @ SF 49ERS: BUCS: The Bucs have jumped to the 19th ranked rush attack behind Legarrette Blount after ranking at the bottom to start the year. Another rookie, Aurellious Benn has emerged as a true number 2 threat at WR catching two TD passes in two games and almost catching one at Arizona but coming up inches short. He makes a good pick up if you need depth and his big size will make him a red zone target Freeman looks to. The Bucs now will face San Francisco whom have been hot of late but rank 20th in total pass yards allowed and 10th in rush yards allowed. The Bucs are still a team that leans more on the pass game and should have success here. Mike Williams makes a great play this week and though it will not be an easy one, Blount should be good for a score with average yards. Where the Bucs should thrive on pass defense. They have a 6th ranked pass defense and it will be QB Troy Smith's toughest match up yet. SF: Troy Smith's accuracy and confidence has sparked this offense and has them on a two game win streak. As stated though, this will be his first good pass defense faced and I expect him to struggle more than we've seen. Where the 49ers will excell is the ground game. The Bucs rank 31st vs the run and Frank Gore should have a field day. Expect to see a ton of Frank but lower expectations on all your other guys. This game should be as close as they come. The Bucs actually tend to play better on the road and are just as hot as SF. It's a coin flip pick but I see the Bucs ability to throw and move the ball being the difference. The Bucs are +5 in takeaways and lead in interceptions. BUCS 24-SF 23. FANTASY STARTS: TB: M. Williams (5 for 85 yds. 1 TD) Blount ( 14 for 60 yds. 1 TD) Freeman (250 yds. 2 TD's) Aurellious Benn (3 for 55 yds. 1 TD) Winslow (5 for 60 yds.) SF: Gore (15 for 90 yds. 1 TD/6 for 55 yds) Davis (6 for 65 yds. 1 TD) Crabtree (4 for 50 yds.) SLEEPER: Spurlock TB....He has contributed in the pass game recently and is also a threat at KR. Freeman does look for him in the red zone and has the speed to burn the Niner secondary.

ARIZONA CARDINALS @ KC CHIEFS: ARI: The return of Steve Breaston has helped Fitzgerald open things up more and look a bit more like his old self. The Cards are still tied for the league worst 7 passing TD's and have been especially weak on the road. Anderson should continue to see the work at QB and has a good match up against KC's 22nd ranked pass defense which was gobbled up by Orton last week. Beanie Wells is a major issue for fantasy owners and should not be trusted as a start this week regardless of how good he says he is feeling. After we see him in a game then we can make decisions but any time there are knee issues it is time for concern. Hightower is the play here, but don't expect much from him either as KC is 13th vs the run. Yes, Moreno was effective last week, but when a defense is on it's heels the whole game it becomes easy for a running back. Arizona doesn't have the spread attack of Denver so temper your decisions if you're going based off last week's performance. The Chiefs are also one of the toughest teams to beat at home so consider that as well.
KC: The Chiefs have propelled themselves to 1st in rush offense behind the explosive Jamaal Charles and Hailey is finding ways to use him in the pass game as well. Charles is the guy you want but Thomas Jones continues to carry value against weaker teams as well as Arizona ranks 28th in rush defense. Both guys are great starts this week and should each see the end zone. Matt Cassel and Bowe will also produce vs Arizona's 27th ranked pass defense. Bowe has become Cassel's favorite target surpassing that roll Moeaki was holding in the beginning of the year. Moeaki still has value and scores here but the days of being top dog in targets seem long gone, especially with the Chief's schedule. Start all your Chiefs.

KC is tough at home and should be able to handle the Cardinals who find ways to lose on the road. KC 31- ARI 20.

FANTASY STARTS: ARI: Fitzgerald (7 for 90 yds. 1 TD) Breaston (5 for 60 yds. 1 TD) Hightower (15 for 60 yds.)
KC: Charles (13 for 80 yds. 1 TD/ 4 for 35 yds.) Jones (11 for 65 yds. 1 TD) Bowe (5 for 80 yds. 1 TD) Moeaki (4 for 50 yds. 1 TD) Cassel (225 yds. 2 TD)
SLEEPER: Chambers KC....He has been very quiet all season and faces a team that likes to give up points. While all the attention should go on Bowe, Chambers plays well at home and may be the recipient of a red zone look.

WASHINGTON REDSKINS @ TENNESSEE TITANS: WASH: No team in the NFL must feel as humbled as the Redskins after being blown up on national TV. The Mcnabb contract release didn't help matters as the criticism was flying even before kick off. Washington worked behind Keiland Williams who stepped in for Torain and had a great fantasy day. In reality, the Washington offense didn't play that poorly. It was the defense that simply allowed the Eagles and Vick to do whatever they wanted, making it hard for Mcnabb to be effective when a team knows you can do nothing but throw. Anthony Armstrong continues to be the most unknown prospect in football and has been actually more consistent than Santana Moss since getting the nod as the starter. The Titans have slid down the charts in defending the pass ranked 25th, so look for Mcnabb to silence his critics and throw the ball every chance he gets. They will have to since the Titans are 11th vs the run and could be relying on Williams once again and possibly Portis who thinks he will be good to go this week. Start your Redskin WR's since they should once again be playing catch up.
TITANS: The debut of Randy Moss was a recreation of what we saw in Minnesota and we saw Nate Washington play the role of Percy Harvin. Even Bo Scaife returned to fantasy life though it was minimal. As I said when the trade went down, CJ just somehow got better. That he did and he will find it increasingly easy now that teams can't stack the box without getting burned my Moss or Washington. Vince Young is the real winner in all of this and makes a great back up on your team because of his schedule and new Moss toy. This week he faces the 31st ranked pass defense and will find plenty of open targets. CJ will have another 100 plus yard day vs the Skins 25th rush defense. Fantasy utopia if you own any Titans.

The Titans play solid ball at home and Moss will finally have a week to work with Young and develop their timing. TEN 28-WASH 17.

FANTASY STARTS: WASH: Moss (5 for 65 yds. 1 TD) Armstrong (4 for 80 yds. 1 TD) Cooley (4 for 45 yds.) Williams (13 for 50 yds)
TENN: CJ (14 for 110 yds. 2 TD) Moss (3 for 65 yds. 1 TD) Washington (5 for 80 yds. 1 TD) Young (225 yds. 2 TD)
SLEEPER: J. Ringer TEN....While he hasn't done much with the carries he has received, this week presents a chance for him to be effective and may see extra work since CJ will be gassed after gashing this defense over and over again.

SEATTLE SEAHAWKS @ NEW ORLEANS SAINTS: SEA: Seattle beat up on Arizona last week, but it doesn't change the fact they can be too one dimensional at times and lack a serious rushing attack they can depend on. Mike Williams is a good bet for come back player of the year and has been the only real threat the Seahawks have. Lynch and Forsett have gone back to the committee approach since neither one has successfully sealed the starting gig. This week they face a Saints team ranked 25th vs the rush and will be called on to carry the offense since the Saints are tops in Pass defense. Hasselbeck should have a long day trying to throw against them and you can bet Carrol will have a run first mentality this week. Both Lynch and Forsett are good plays since Forsett will see plenty of pass catching targets and Lynch should find room to run down hill. Forsett gets the edge as a better fantasy play though since the Seahawks should be down and need to throw often in the second half.
NO: A Bye week and a team that ranks 28th vs the pass means plenty of scores for Brees and company. This week looks like the one Bush makes his return and it's a good one since he should be able to ease back into the flow of things after missing so much time. Ivory still carries good value so keep him stashed away. The team seems to be fed up with Pierre Thomas' slow rehab and it looks like Ivory will be their guy even when he returns. Seattle does rank 14th vs the run but it shouldn't matter much as the defense will be forced back on it's heels to keep this one from getting ugly.

NO is one of the best prepared teams in football on normal weeks. A bye only makes them that much more effective. NO 34- SEA 21

FANTASY STARTS: SEA: Lynch (14 for 70 yds. 1 TD) Forsett (9 for 40 yds./5 for 55 yds. 1 TD)
NO: All your Saints WR's and even Ivory whom could sneak in for a score and have some extra reps if NO gets up big. Wait on Bush since we don't know what his conditioning is and how much Peyton wants to use him in his first game back.
SLEEPER: Carlson SEA....Carlson should be the only guy to find much room against this tough pass D and Hasselbeck should be under constant pressure and need a safety valve.

ATLANTA FALCONS @ ST. LOUIS RAMS: ATL: Atlanta continues to silence it's doubters and now sits atop the NFC South. Matt Ryan is having the best year of his young career and can thank Roddy White for being the hardest WR to cover in the NFL. Teams know White is getting the ball yet he still continues to show an uncanny ability to find the holes in coverage and break away from defenders. The return of Jenkins has also helped keep teams honest and deny them the ability to bring an extra man in the box to defend against Mike Turner who has turned it on the last three weeks after a slow start. He faces a solid rush vs St. Louis who ranks 6th in the NFL and has allowed only 3 rushing TD's which ties them for 1st. St. Louis also is good against the pass, ranking 17th but they know how to apply pressure logging 28 sacks this year which ties them for tops in the NFL. Ryan and company are not the same team on the road and will face a tougher test than what people think.
RAMS: As stated they are one of the most under valued defenses in the NFL and have quietly been one of the better units. It's the offense that needs a shot in the arm and will face a tough defense which matches up well against them. S. Jax faces the Atlanta 7th ranked defense which has also only given up 3 rushing TD's and shares the lead in that category with the Rams. Where the Rams will attack is through the air where Atlanta is 23rd. Amendola will need to be very involved as will S.Jax in the pass game, but the Rams will need Brandon Gibson to step up big time and force the Falcons to give S.Jax running room. Even against the tough rush defense, S. Jax will be effective as he has proven it really doesn't matter who he plays, he will get his.

The Rams have won four straight at home and Atlanta is weaker on the road although in their favor is the fact that it is a dome game. The Rams are more of a potent defense than people think and will surprise here, shocking Falcon fans on Sunday. STL 23-ATL 20.

FANTASY STARTS: ATL: White (6 for 80 yds. 1 TD) Gonzales (4 for 40 yds 1 TD.) Jenkins ( 5 for 65 yds.) Turner (13 for 70 yds)
STL: Amendola (6 for 65 yds. 1 TD) Jackson (14 for 55 yds. 1 TD/ 3 for 40 yds.)
SLEEPER: Daniel Fells STL...He is targeted often by Bradford who is excellent at not turning the ball over. Fells may see some extra work as the Falcons try to take Jackson out of the picture.

INDIANAPOLIS COLTS @ NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS: IND: They escaped a late rally by the Bengals who exposed the holes in their 10th ranked pass defense and showed what can happen when you spread the ball around. However, the Colts face a far lesser pass defense in New England which ranks 30th vs the pass and is prime for the taking when Peyton Manning is throwing the ball. No word on if Addai will return as of yet, but Brown and James should see decent days against the Pats 18th rush defense. Look for Peyton to take advantage of this young secondary and for Garcon to return to fantasy worth this week. There was way too much Jacob Tamme last week and the Colts should recognize this and try to spread it out more since it almost cost them the game. Tamme is banged up this week but should be good to go come game time.
PATS: Brady and the Pats put on a clinic last week on how to beat the Steelers, chipping away at them with the short pass game and all but abandoning the run which would have been futile anyway. You have to love "the hoodie" because as a coach he is one of the best. He realized why waste a play on a run against the best run stopping defense when your pass percentages are better? This week look for him to flip the script as the Colts are 10th vs the pass and 29th vs the run. It works not only because it's the Colt weakness but also because more time and longer drives means less time for Manning. Woodhead and Green-Ellis should have great days, with Woodhead getting a slight advantage since he will be involved in the pass game. I also like Welker but would avoid Ben Tate who is the deep threat route runner. The Colts cover 2 scheme is best beat over the middle and with Freeney charging at you the short throw is your best option.

 This will be one of the better games this weekend and football is always better when the Patriots are doing well because you either love them or hate them. Although it's a home game, the Colts pass game is more effective than the Pats run attack. Colts win a close one. IND 24- NE 21.

 FANTASY STARTS: IND: Manning (310 yds. 3 TD) Garcon (6 for 85 yds. 1 TD) Wayne ( 5 for 110 yds. 1 TD) Tamme ( 5 for 60 yds. 1 TD) Brown (12 for 55 yds.) NE: Brady (280 yds. 2 TD) Woodhead (9 for 45 yds/ 4 for 50 yds. 1 TD) Green-Ellis (12 for 65 yds. 1 TD) Welker (6 for 70 yds. 1 TD) SLEEPER: A. Hernandez NE....while he gave you zero last week, this week he should be in high demand as the Pats receivers struggle to find the long ball. Hernandez has great speed for a TE and will find the holes in the center of the Colts zone coverage.

 NY GIANTS @ PHILADELPHIA EAGLES: NYG: The Giants no doubt are the second most humbled team after the Redskins considering they were blown out by a team everyone counted done for the season. The Cowboys destroyed the Giants 4th ranked secondary last week and now Vick comes to town with an even better arsenal. The Giants face an Eagles team ranked 12th vs the run and 16th vs the pass. While middle of the road, the Eagles are a bend but don't break defense but excell at takeaways where they are at +12 on the year with 16 interceptions after Monday night which is best in the NFL, Manning typically struggles a bit vs better secondaries and the Giants will most likely opt for a heavy run scheme with passing a supplement. Nothing new to the Giants, but it will lower the value of the deep threats like Nicks. Steve Smith and Ramsey Barden now are both out this week which makes it easier for Assante to know where Eli will be going with the ball. This is why we've seen Boss more involved, and he is now dealing with the injury bug himself. The Giants quickly become one dimensional now with the loss of Smith and the Eagles will send pressure up front. It will boil down to how effective Bradshaw and Jacobs can be on the road. Both guys will carry good value this week because of their work load.
 PHI: Mike Vick is possibly football's version of Muhammed Ali in respect to another guy who missed years of his sport only to return and dominate. Of course that's where the comparisson ends but Vick is already being talked about in the possible MVP race. I watched him in pre season and it was apparent then that he has matured as a pocket passer and realized his feet are a better weapon when it's a second option and not the first. The MVP talk will either stop with this game or catapult him to the upper list if he beats a Giants team ranked 4th vs the pass and 3rd vs the rush. It will be squarely on him if the Eagles faulter so we will see exactly how good he is against playoff caliber teams. This will by far be his hardest test presuming the pre Cowboyed Giants show up. Look for the high percentage passes and McCoy to be used heavily in the passing game. This is also a game where Brent Celek will be used more than the past. Vick will have plenty of opportunities to scramble, but the Giants are good at collapsing a pocket, thus leaving Vick in a position where he will need to dump off the ball. Nobody should have especially gaudy numbers in this game, but if anyone does emerge as the top fantasy scorer here it will be Vick.

 The injuries and lack of dimensions to the Giants boosts the Eagles ability to defend in what should be a great defensive show down. In the end, Vicks scramble for a score on a broken play is the difference. PHI 20- NYG 17.

 FANTASY STARTS: NYG: Bradshaw (13 for 60 yds. 1 TD/ 3 for 25) Jacobs ( 12 for 45 yds. 1 TD) Nicks (4 for 60 yds.) PHI: Vick (230 yds 1 TD/ 4 for 50 yds. 1 TD) McCoy ( 12 for 45 yds./ 5 for 40 yds. 1 TD) Jackson (3 for 60 yds) Maclin (4 for 50 yds.)
 SLEEPER: Celek and Boss.....both teams should value their Tight Ends more than normal this week and both will be needed to move the chains. Don't be shocked if both score.

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SUNDAY IN REVIEW

BUCCANEERS: One yard....The Bucs were one yard away from winning this game on the road, but Legarrette Blount missed the hole and chose a lane which led him into a chop tackle just short on 4th and 1. This team is still in the thick of things for the NFC South and showed poise on the road against the divisional leaders. Raheem Morris continues to allow Cadillac Williams the starters carries for the first two drives of every game and those are very significant tone setting carries which are being lost to Cadillac's ineffectiveness. Blount should be the lead back with Caddy as the 3rd down guy from here on out. The rush defense was better this week, but still allowed Turner 100 yards. Mike Williams is the guy you want most on this team, scoring once again and breaking a 52 yard TD on a ten yard pass. Blount has more favorable match ups coming and was simply a victim of a good rush defense. Aurellious Benn has emerged as the Bucs true #2 WR and is worth picking up off waivers in a keeper league while you can.

FALCONS: The Falcons defense held when it needed it most and escaped by a yard to cement themselves atop the NFC South. Roddy White went down with a knee injury in the first half but returned. This could be worth watching as he was largely ineffective and Ryan looked more to Gonzales and Jenkins. Matt Ryan seems to have found great comfort ability in the pocket but will be hindered if he loses White. His value is clearly tied to White's health and he should finish the second half of the year as a top ten QB if White is healthy.

DOLPHINS: Chad Henne continues the Jeykle and Hyde act as he tossed three picks and no TD's. Given it was against one of the NFL top defenses, but he is not a guy to trust as your starter. Brown had another good game, scoring with 59 yards rushing. He is trustworthy as a #2 RB but I would rather see him in a flex spot if you have better options. Brandon Marshall is a must start since you probably drafted him high but really is only safe as a WR 3 with amazing upside depending on Henne's day. The Dolphins are better plays at home stat wise but use caution on any other guys except Brown and Marshall.

RAVENS: The Ravens came out firing after the bye week. Ray Rice found his usual form rushing for 83 yards and receiving for 97 yards though he did not score. Derik Mason and Willis Mcgahee caught the only two TD passes. Boldin was kept in obscurity catching only 2 balls for 28 yards. The Ravens are one of the few teams that have lived up to the hype and have yet to really let down. Boldin and Rice are the studs, but I think Flacco and Mason are being very undervalued. Both guys are putting up solid numbers for their position and you should be able to get them for lower value than you would expect. If you have Mcgahee, trade him to upgrade or get depth at another position you need while his value is high this week. He is too sporadic to trust overall.

BEARS: While the Bears had a bye week to prepare for this game, they came out a bit flat, most likely due to the time off. It really doesn't matter since they get the win though. Cutler was only at about 55% but more importantly he didn't throw an interception. He seemed to manage his throws well and pick his spots. Forte had another ho-hum game on the ground getting 49 on 14 carries and not being a factor in the pass game. After a fast start, Forte has slowed a bit giving fantasy owners an average of 8 PPG. He still has great potential but faces the Vikings twice, the Jets, Philadelphia, and Miami on the road. Receiving wise, Earl Bennett had the catch this week but Knox is the only true threat overall. None of them are better than WR #3. Forte though should be considered a RB #2 due to schedule the rest of the way. He does have a good match vs Detroit but it gets tougher overall.

BILLS: Steve Johnson overcame a slow start to finish with 11 catches and 145 yards. He clearly is Fitzpatrick's favorite target and has been one of the safest WR plays this year. Fitzpatrick has also been a good start lately given his need to throw so much coming from behind every game. The Bills run game has come up short from being the lead attack expected, but were facing a tough run defense. They do have some favorable matches against Cleveland, Miami, and New England whom currently do not have the greatest rush defenses. However, all three teams seem to be improving vs the run and come week 14 could be tough opponents. Better to find options if you are in contention.

SAINTS: What looked to be a close one during the first quarter turned into an easy scrimmage game as the Saint defense knocked out both Matt Moore and Jonathan Stewart then make Clausen look just bad. The Saints got a win they needed as the NFC South is very up for grabs and should be until the final weeks. Lance Moore and Marques Colston are the only two to trust at WR as Meachem and Henderson continue to have bad statistical seasons. Both are drop worthy or trade bait if you can find any takers. While Betts got the start and the carries, it was Julius Jones who doubled his rushing total on half the carries with 68 yds. on 6 carries. The good news is that Bush should be back after the bye week and maybe Pierre Thomas will be close to returning. Thomas was almost traded to the Patriots this year and looks to have worn out his welcome with Sean Payton. Ivory and Bush are the best two options moving forward.

PANTHERS: I had the Panthers down as my upset of the week, but after two drives those thoughts were shattered by Matt Moore going down and then adding Jonathan Stewart to the injury list. After that it was an after thought. The question became how bad would the Panthers lose. No receiver came away with more than 22 yards and no RB with more than 41 yards. As Steve Smith said...it was pathetic. While Clausen looks in line to get the next start, Tony Pike came in an put up the same yardage on fewer throws and looked better overall. Steve Smith is officially no better than a flex play until he can develop continuity with a QB. Coach Fox needs to make a statement and roll with one guy for the rest of the year for the team's sake and start developing for next year. No Panther is trustworthy and Deangelo Williams will be hampered when he returns by a passing attack which scares nobody.

PATRIOTS: While I pegged Hernandez for a score as my sleeper, it was about all I had right in this game. Brady couldn't find a rhythm, the law firm went bankrupt, and Danny Woodhead led all players with 92 total yards. The Patriots were caught by a Browns defense which has gone under rated most the year. Coming off the bye allowed them extra time to scheme against the Pats short shot game and catch them off guard with some sneaky play calls. The Patriots simply had an off day but will look to get back on track next week. Hernandez is a solid TE #1 and Woodhead has clearly overtook Welker as that all purpose guy who racks up the yards. Brady however has fallen in value after losing Moss and is not the dependable monster you are used to expecting. If you can get name value for Welker do it. Green Ellis may have fallen short this week but has some good games coming up and is worth being patient with. Try and get him if you are weak at RB #2 or need a good flex play.

BROWNS: The Browns overwhelmed the Pats in a game that may have saved Mangini his job yet again. He wins the ones the shouldn't and loses everything else giving the perception he has potential. It was the same with the Jets until Woody realized this trend. The Browns have the talent and seem to be getting better, but will have to wait until next year before becoming serious contenders. McCoy is clearly the choice at QB so he can develop into the potential he is showing. Peyton Hillis is a monster, running for 184 and 2 scores as well as catching 3 for 36 yards. Massaquoi showed some relevance again and may have value moving forward as a reserve should one of your studs go down.

JETS: Mark Sanchez started off a bit rusty but gained composure and took control of the pocket as time went on, eventually driving the Jet s to the Detroit 20 with two minutes left for the game winning field goal. The bigger concern here is what is going on with the Jets run game? This was a game primed for the Jets backs to have success yet neither reached more than 55 yards on the ground. This is the second game where the run game has come short of expectations and while you are not going to move LT anywhere, it may cause you to lower expectations just a bit. I have been a firm believer that as the season wares on, LT will slow a bit and we will see Greene a bit more. Greene was featured more towards the end of this game and this could be a sign of things to come. Santonio and Braylon each continue to give fantasy numbers worthy of #2 and 3 guys and should be trusted moving ahead. Given the schedule coming up, Sanchez may also be a good play for the next three weeks if your starter has a bye or some really bad match ups.

LIONS: At this point either Stafford has a bum shoulder and needs to sit out the rest of the year or the Detroit medical staff is the worst. Either way, Stafford will only be able to afford so much scar tissue before it limits his career. Bench him since the season is mostly shot at this point and let him fully heal and prepare for the long term. He has amazing potential but it's worth nothing if he misses 5 games a year. I called Jhavid Best as a sleeper and he delivered with 88 yards. The Lions as a whole are playing good football, but the defense can't close in the 4th. There is much to be hopeful about but fantasy wise Calvin Johnson and Jhavid should be the only two guys you put in as starters. Megatron is the obvious start week in and out but he will fall to WR #2 as long as Stafford misses time. As long as Best is healthy he will continue to rack up yardage and you can depend on about 70 YPG. While it may not be spectacular, it should be consistent production and more than you can rely on compared to higher picks like Ryan Mathews, Shonn Greene, or Deangelo Williams.

CHARGERS: Phillip Rivers is undoubtedly the best QB in football right now. While it was the worse secondary in the NFL, Rives threw 4 TD's without any of his star receivers, a stagnant run game, and came back from a 23-14 deficit to win. It will only get better for Rivers after the bye week when Vincent Jackson returns, Malcom Floyd should return as well as Naanee and Gates. Rivers also faces a favorable schedule after the bye making him all the more valuable. Ryan Mathews injured his ankle once again which only strengthens the case for Mike Tolbert being on your team. He has the most TD's out of the RB core and is a more durable back. Sit on your Chargers during the bye as it should only get better.

TEXANS: Matt Schaub and Andre Johnson were shut down by the top rated pass defense, making it the Arian Foster show. Foster ran for 127 yards and led all receivers with 70 yards. Foster is by far the best back in the NFL but the work load is worrisome. Every touch means another hit and in today's NFL that can be a slippery slope to tread. It's not like you would dream of trading the guy away, but if you own Foster you are most likely in playoff contention and should have some reserves just in case. He runs smart and does know how to avoid the big hits, but it should be a valid strategy to have depth. Owen Daniels missed the game and if you own him it is time to seek other options.

CARDINALS: The Cards had this game until the last five minutes but it never really felt like they were winning. It was more a case of the Vikings offense beating itself, and it proved to be true as Favre led two scoring drives in five minutes to tie and eventually win. Fitztgerald did get his on 107 yards receiving but failed to reach the end zone. I liked Hightower more than Wells though neither was appealing and Hightower finished with a team leading 39 rush yards. Though Wells is the starter, Hightower brings a better ball control game and is more physical right now. Regardless, you won't feel comfortable using either of these two and need better options. Fitzgerald is a high end #2 as I've been saying and should be expected to give you around 10 PPG. That said, if the QB carousel can stop, Fitzgerald only faces one solid pass defense for the rest of the year including the playoffs.

VIKINGS: Now the work is Ziggy Wilf is still considering if he should release Childress. It's the only true option and needs to be done now while the team is still in contention. The fans and players hate the guy and think he is clueless. He questioned Percy Harvin's work ethic on Friday and Sunday he posted 126 receiving yards. Berrian was my sleeper and he came away with 89 yards. I had said not to panic on Harvin just yet and it will only get better. Sidney Rice warmed up before this game and could return next week. That will help this team and help Harvin find the end zone. Schiancoe's value will still be high regardless of Rice's return since it looks like Childress has figured out that him being involved means a more effective team. Pick up Rice from waivers now if he is available. The Vikes only have two tough pass defenses through the fantasy playoffs left.

GIANTS: Bradshaw and Jacobs flip flopped their roles this week, with Jacobs getting the yardage and Bradshaw getting the scores. The Giants came out rested and overwhelmed Whitehurst. Eli went to his favorite target Nicks often who finished with 126 yards and a score. Manningham and Smith had decent days, with Smith getting the TD but neither is a safe play every week because you really don't know which one will come out with the score. Jacobs is a trustworthy start depending on the match up and Bradshaw is a must start weekly. Eli and his receivers have a good schedule until the fantasy playoffs where he faces Min, Phi, and GB. All three will be challenges so if you have a solid back up or can trade for a QB/need player I would go for it. Sounds crazy, but if you are looking at getting in the playoffs with Eli as your guy it could be tough to expect production three weeks straight from him.

SEAHAWKS: So much for the Whitehurst hoopla. The Seahawks were not the healthiest group, but right now Hasselbeck gives them the best chance of winning as everyone saw on Sunday. The only player of note that produced anything significant was Marshawn Lynch who posted 48 yards. Lynch is the back you want on this team but is nothing more than a reserve. The Mike Williams bandwagon should also be unloaded and he should be traded while he carries some weight.

CHIEFS: Jamaal Charles delivered again on fewer touches than Jones and was also an impact in the pass game catching 5 balls for 47 yards and rushing for 53 yards to Jones' 32. Once again, Charles is the one you want on this team though both are starter worthy. Dwayne Bowe has continued his new found trust with Cassel, receiving for 63 yards and a score. Bowe has become a solid #2 WR and should be trustworthy as such for the rest of the year. The Chiefs have the best rushing schedule in the NFL and don't face a truly tough rush defense until the last week of the fantasy playoffs against Tennessee. Despite the loss, the Chiefs are still in the divisional race and will be playing hard. Moeaki should be in your line up every day despite the fact you probably have a better name on your squad. He is the Chief's second option in the pass game and should not be benched.

RAIDERS: After a bad first half which looked like KC would be in control, the Raiders regrouped and Jacoby Ford ate his Wheaties. Ford finished with 148 yards and was the only other player than Mcfadden to make a significant impact. He is worthy of a waiver pick up since he may have just earned himself starter time given Heyward-Bey's magic act week to week and Murphy's health. Oakland has a bye week coming and should have all it's receiving threats back so wait and see what Ford will do and how he will be used. Mcfadden and Miller are the two you can obviously trust but take a wait and see approach before you start anyone else despite this week's production. Besides, you'll probably forget Ford's performance after next week anyway.

COLTS: I tweeted it on the 4th and had him here as a sleeper. Javarris James didn't give you crazy yards but he did give you two scores if you had the balls to start him. Just when you think it's safe to play Garcon, he shows up for 15 yards on two catches. Both Tamme and Wayne had 11 receptions but Tamme had the score on a night where Peyton was hurried often and faced solid coverage. Tamme is another one I called the night of Clark's injury and has lived up to the label of being a Clark clone. As of now, Reggie Wayne is the safest play at the WR position. Garcon and Collie are interchangeable from week to week and the addition of Blair White only complicates things. Garcon has the most upside overall, but is only trust worthy as WR#3 or a flex.

EAGLES: Mike Vick returned right where he left off, rushing for 74 yards with 1 TD and passing for 218 with a score. Desean Jackson is his favorite target and returns to WR 1 status as long as he is healthy. McCoy had his best rushing day since week two, gaining 95 yards on 16 carries. Maclin had a quiet game, but Vick will find him like he did before the injury. The only true change from what you expected on this team is the total lack of production from Brent Celek. Celek had a hard enough time hooking up with Kolb who looked for him more often. Now with Vick, Celek is bench material. Given he was probably drafted as your TE #1, look for options on the wire.

COWBOYS: I've said previously that regardless of what Jerry Jones says, Wade Phillips will get the boot before seasons end. It looks like after the blow out in GB that Jones has softened his stance on not making moves as he stated he will be making changes. It starts with Phillips and has translated to the mentality of this team. The Cowboys have the talent, but they don't have the discipline needed. They need a coach who knows how best to use each individual's talent in given situations. Best to make the change now and use the rest of the year slowly implementing a new system under a new coach. Jason Garrett has always been the guy in waiting and the time is now. Still, Dez Bryant carries the most value on this team and is the only one you can trust to start every week. He faces weaker corner opposition than Austin, runs the routes in space, and has the speed to burn a defense. Austin continues to take a big hit without Kitna, but like Fitzgerald is a high end #2 with #1 potential. If you can hold Austin until the second week of the playoffs, he faces Washington and Arizona. Until then he faces some tougher opponents but will still produce, just not what you expected on draft day.

PACKERS: James Jones came up big again in relief of Donald Driver catching a TD on 123 yards. Jennings added 80 yards with a score and Brandon Jackson had one of his most productive days rushing for 42 and a score along with 26 receiving and a score. The Packers defense has gotten healthier and may be the fastest defense in the league. This is a defense that can win you games. Jones has evolved to a solid WR 3 but will have to be monitored since Driver has the extra week to heal with the bye. Brandon Jackson is a decent RB 2 start, but since you probably have better options could make great trade bait if you have holes on your team.

WEEK 8 PREVIEW

WASHINGTON REDSKINS@DETROIT LIONS: The Redkins continued their combination of luck and skill in Chicago, forcing Cutler into 4 picks by Deangelo Hall. The performance was outstanding, but it's not a statement game for this secondary which still ranks at the bottom of the league. That belongs to the Washington front seven whom continue to be impressive and are pressuring QB's into mistakes. Mcnabb now travels to Detroit where he faces the 12th ranked pass defense. Granted that number is skewed due to the bye, but Detroit is a more balanced team at home. Where the Lions do struggle is against the run. They rank 25th and will have problems trying to stop Ryan Torain. Expect the Redskins to have success on both fronts and for Anthony Armstrong to post solid numbers as the attention focuses on Moss and Cooley along with the run game. This could turn into a high scoring affair where whomever has the ball last wins. The Skins have proven if they do then they will come away with the win.
LIONS: The Lions come off a weeks worth of rest and look to have Stafford back in the fold. This team has been competitive throughout injuries and should have everyone healthy for the first time since opening day. Washington is at the bottom when it comes to pass defense so Stafford should have no problem readjusting. Washington also ranks 23rd against the run which is bad news considering the lightning fast Best. Expect the Lions to try and get Best involved early to allow Stafford to settle in as well as control the ball.

Though all signs point to another Washington win, I am a big believer in the bye week giving teams an extra advantage and see Detroit being amped up and ready. This team has lost marginally in all but one game against some solid opponents whom have more fire power than the Skins.....DET 31-WASH 21.

FANTASY STARTS: WASH: Mcnabb (250yds. 2 TD) Torain ( 14 for 90 yds. 1 TD) Armstrong (4 for 75 yds. 1 TD) Cooley ( 5 for 60 yds. 1 TD). DET: Best (13 for 70 yds. 1 TD/ 5 for 40 yds) C. Johnson (6 for 110 yds. 2 TD) Burleson (3 for 50 yds. 1 TD) Stafford (300 yds. 3 TD)
SLEEPER: Pettigrew DET...while I am all in on Megatron this week, Stafford may have a little rust to bang off in the first half and expect some safe underneath throws to Pettigrew. He could easily steal one of the scores I have slated for CJ.

JACKSONVILLE JAGS@DALLAS COWBOYS: JAGS: Gerrard has been cleared to play and should get the start despite Bouman's performance last week. I liked what I saw from a guy who looked every bit as Gerrard despite not throwing an NFL pass for five years. Regardless, nobody knows how Dallas will react on a short week with a new QB. Kitna will no doubt make his mistakes and this secondary proved it can be torched. After the 200yd day by the Giants run game, MJD has to be salivating after a good last few weeks. He seems to be hitting his stride just in time to face a Cowboys rush defense that is 14th. Gerrard is an enigma when it comes to his play and nobody can be sure how he comes out looking. Simms-Walker has seen an increase in targets the last two weeks and will need to be a factor if the Jags have a shot here. Look for a ton of MJD and Mercedes Lewis first half, with some Simms-Walker after Gerrard gets his feet wet.
COWBOYS: Kitna is no spring chicken, but that also means he is a savvy veteran who can manage a game. He is facing the 29th ranked pass defense which has been especially bad the last two weeks. Miles Austin's deep ball value is the only thing I see taking a hit here and for the duration of Romo's absence. A guy like Dez Bryant will be a target often looked to. Don't forget Roy and Kitna were team mates back in Detroit and had a good relationship. Felix Jones should see a big increase in production as they won't want to put it all on Kitna's shoulders.

Expect Dallas to rally around Kitna this week. Jones has probably given this team a motivated tongue lashing after being embarrassed nationally. Wade Phillips knows he is a goner at end of the year and needs to prove he is worthy of another job. DAL 27-JAGS 17.

FANTASY STARTS: JAGS: MJD (16 for 100yds 1 TD/ 5 for 40 yds). M. Lewis (4 for 50 yds. 1 TD) Simms-Walker (80 yds.)
COWBOYS: F. Jones (14 for 80 yds. 1 TD/ 4 for 40 yds) Williams ( 6 for 70 yds. 1 TD) Bryant (5 for 60 yds. 1 TD) Austin (8 for 90 yds. 1 TD)
SLEEPER: Marion Barber DAL...even with Felix Jones emergence as the lead back, games like this offer great value for strong secondary backs. Expect a score.

MIAMI DOLPHINS@CINCINNATI BENGALS: MIA: The Dolphins are coming off a heart breaking loss to the Steelers and have a chip on their shoulder coming in. They face a Bengals team that is one dimensional ranking 11th in passing but 24th rushing. This fits well for Miami's solid pass defense ranked 10th and even better for their 9th ranked run defense. Offensively, Miami has been plagued by their 22nd rush attack, a far cry from what expectations were. They have been forced into throwing more, but they are doing it effectively. They face a Bengals team down Adam Jones so look for them to attack through the air here.
BENGALS: The Bengals have been one of the bigger disappointments this year. The bulk of the blame needs to sit on Cedric Benson and Palmer's shoulders. Palmer has no excuse given his weapons yet he continues to struggle with accuracy. He is very fantasy relevant because of his work load, but needs to find a rhythm. While he did have success last week, he will continue to be vulnerable with the lack of a run game. I have always been low on Cedric Benson because of his consistency issues year to year. While he is by no means having a bad year, he is not the explosive guy we saw last season. Cinci is currently 24th rushing and faces a Miami rush D ranked 9th whom held Mendenhall in check last week. Don't expect much from Benson this week. Do expect TO and Ocho to have decent days as Carson will be forced to throw 40 plus times again.

Miami proved they can handle road trips when they beat Green Bay, but the Bengals season is on the line if they lose this one. Given the Miami rush issues, I don't see Henne being able to match Palmer's pass game.
CINCI 28- MIA 24.

FANTASY STARTS: MIA: Marshall (7 for 90 yds. 1 TD) Bess (5 for 60yds.) Fasano (3 for 40 yds. 1 TD) Brown (13 for 60 yds. 1 TD). BENGALS: Palmer (280 yds. 2 TD) Ochocinco (8 for 85 yds. 1 TD) TO (6 for 70 yds. 1 TD) Benson (13 for 60 yds) Greisham (5 for 45 yds. 1 TD)
SLEEPER: Bengals defense....while I do expect the loss of Pac Man to hurt overall, I can see them off setting the damage with Henne turnovers and a score.

BUFFALO BILLS@KC CHIEFS: BILLS: the Bills came close to a huge upset, catching the Ravens sleeping. The emergence of Steve Johnson along side Lee Evans was just what this team needed. The future looks bright for Fitzgerald whom put up 28 fantasy points last week. The Bills are still a run first team but unless they get more production from Spiller and Jackson things may shift more to passing as we saw last week. Expect just that as KC's run defense is ranked a legitimate 3rd. Where KC can be beat is their 19th pass defense. Given the success they had last week, the Bills will try to recapture that lightning they sparked last week.
CHIEFS: I will say it again, TJ and JC may be the only RB tandem worth starting every week! If you have them. The duo must be sleepless this week knowing they face the 31st ranked rush defense. The Chiefs may not even need to throw a pass in this one. The pass game will no doubt open up because of the run so expect another decent day from Cassel but huge performances by the backs. Of course, watch it become a low scoring affair because of the easy expectations.

While the Bills should be confident after a great performance, they could also be shaking off the bad taste left in their mouths after their best performance coming up short. Arrowhead would be the last place I expect them to win their first game. KC 28-BUFF 17

FANTASY STARTS: BUFF: Fitzpatrick (280 yds. 2 TD) Johnson (6 for 90 yds. 1 TD) Evans ( 5 for 80 yds. 1 TD)
KC: Charles (13 for 90 yds. 1 TD/ 3 for 40 yds.) Jones (10 for 70 yds. 1 TD) Bowe ( 4 for 60 yds. 1 TD) Mokeaki (4 for 50 yds. 1 TD)
SLEEPER: CJ Spiller BUFF....while the Chiefs will be ready for Jackson, speed backs like Spiller have had some success against the Chiefs.

CAROLINA PANTHERS@ST. LOUIS RAMS: PANTHERS: Carolina came off the bye beating a underachieving 49ers team. While a win is a win but the Panthers can't be over confident about it. Carolina won because of their under rated defense which is 1st against the pass. The return of Steve Smith bodes well for Matt Moore but even better is the emergence of a possible second receiving threat in Gettis who blew up against the 49er secondary. They have another good match up here in the Rams 25th pass defense. The possible loss of Williams this week will hurt as the Rams are middle of the pack against the run. Even if Williams plays, he will be slowed down by the injury and Stewart hasn't done anything this year that stands out in the run game. I do see solid days for Smith and Gettis with Stewart doing some damage coming out of the back field for passes.
RAMS: S. Jax injured a finger last week and had surprise surgery on Tuesday. He tweeted he would be good to go this week and I would expect so since he has played through worse. What is more perplexing was the dissapearing act of Denario Alexander last week against the Bucs leading to rumours he was injured. The Rams will need him against this top ranked pass defense. Carolina is 21st against the rush and very similar to the defense the Rams just played in Tampa as weaknesses go. Expect Jackson to be the main weapon of choice and Spagnulo to try and chip away at the Panthers with a hefty dose of Amendola.

St.Louis should be ready to regroup from their mistakes last week as they face another team which is similar to the Bucs. This will be Matt Moore's first road trip since injury and there may be some adjusting. A less than 100% Williams or lack thereof completely only makes things easier for the Rams. However, Amendola will not be enough to keep Jackson from seeing a stacked box up front. CAR 20-RAMS 17.

FANTASY STARTS: CAR: Smith (6 for 70 yds. 1 TD) Gettis (4 for 50 yds.) Stewart (15 for 60 yds.1 TD/ 6 for 40 yds.)
RAMS: Jackson (17 for 80 yds. 1 TD/ 3 for 20 yds.) Amendola (7 for 60 yds. 1 TD)
SLEEPER: Brandon Gibson.....The Rams will need him involved if nothing else than to serve as a distraction from the focus on the run game. I don't see big numbers, but he could sneak in for a score on a play action inside the ten.

DENVER BRONCOS@SF 49ERS: DEN: Mcdaniels no doubt led an ass chewing after one of the worst beatings we've seen in a while. It must especially hurt that it came against the Raiders. There are whispers in Denver of bringing in Tebow so look for Orton to be more focused than ever in order to squash the whispers. He should right the ship as he faces the 21st ranked 49er pass defense. SF is middle of the pack versus the run and Moreno had a good game but he did most his damage through the air. Expect a heavy pass attack this week.
49ERS: Alex Smith will miss this week in all probability with a shoulder sprain, but David Carr did little last week to instill confidence. Troy Smith is getting the reps in practice and will get the start. Denver is 16th against the pass and have fallen to dead last against the run after last week. There will be many holes for Gore, but expect Denver to make stopping him priority one. The question is how rusty is Smith and can he take advantage of the match up?

Denver is banged up defensively and it showed last week. Now they go to visit a team equally as desperate but in a better situation overall. Singletary was not crazy to think they still have a shot at the division. SF muscles up here and puts on their best game of the year for win number two. SF 24-DEN 21.

FANTASY STARTS: DEN: Lloyd (6 for 90 yds. 1 TD) D. Thomas (5 for 70 yds. 1 TD). Moreno (11 for 50 yds/ 3 for 40 yds. 1 TD) Gaffney (4 for 60 yds.)
SF: Gore (16 for 80 yds. 1 TD/ 5 for 50 yds) Davis ( 6 for 50 yds. 1 TD) Crabtree (5 for 80 yds. 1 TD)
SLEEPER: Troy Smith SF....He knows what this can do for his career. He has no pressure and has nothing to lose. Don't be shocked if he is the surprise of the week. I like Troy Smith and think he has the tools to win!

GREEN BAY PACKERS@NY JETS: PACKERS: Aaron Rogers and company outlasted Favre last week in a game that had implications moving forward. Donald Driver was limited due to injury and James Jones stepped up for him, posting 107 yards, proving it doesn't matter who Rogers is throwing to. Brandon Jackson has gotten more effective as the season moves on fantasy wise scoring no lower than about 8 pts the last three weeks. However, this week he faces the stingy Jets run defense which ranks 4th. He should wind up with his average day of 50 yds. and a score since the Jets are vulnerable to the pass game. With Jennings likely to see a lot of Revis island, expect James Jones to be the match up Rogers looks for. Lowery and Wilson have had games where they have been caught with their pants down and Jones has the talent to be a solid play even if Driver is 100%. We also could have found Jermichael Finley's replacement in Quarless. He looked every bit athletic as Finley and looks to be an upgrade from Lee. He should see more time this week.

NY JETS: They are coming off a bye, at home against a Green Bay team finding a new way to win without a good run game. The Jets 15th pass defense should have it's hands full and will face some mismatches if James Jones plays as well as he did last week. Tomlinson and Greene will be facing a Packer defense that has fallen to 28th. The Packers are better at defending the pass, so expect to see a lot of run plays early on. Both Tomlinson and Greene have value here and could both see the end zone. While the Jets will be effective passing, Sanchez seems to be a guy whom the bye week can affect in a negative way. He can be very streaky and was looking great throwing the ball. The down time may take him the half to get back into the swing of things.

While I am a big fan of the bye weeks, the Packers just beat a Minnesota team delivering their best shot. Clay Mathews is back and will cause problems for Sanchez who makes mistakes under pressure. In the end, it's a Sanchez pick that makes the difference.

GB 31-NYJ 24.

FANTASY STARTS: GB: Jennings (5 for 60 yds. 1 TD) Jones (6 for 80 yds. 1 TD) Jackson ( 13 for 50 yds. 1 TD) NYJ: Tomlinson (14 for 90 yds. 1 TD) Greene (9 for 60 yds. 1 TD) Holmes (4 for 60 yds. 1 TD)

SLEEPER: A. Quarless GB...He could very well be the difference maker, that one guy whom the Jets are not able to account for amid the pass game. I expect him to be put more on display and get another score.

TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS@ARIZONA CARDINALS: Josh Freeman has a knack for 4th Quarter come back wins and it's a good thing he does. Tampa has been able to hang around close enough each game to allow his theatrics but may have found an answer to their problems. The lack of running game which has averaged 3 YPC (25th) this year was helped with the emergence of Legarette Blount last week as he rushed for 72 yards on 11 carries. Up until the second half when he was given the ball, it has been the Freeman show. Finding the run game will only make the Bucs more effective at the pass where they are ranked 22nd. Mike Williams is quietly having a great rookie year catching 3 TD passes in six games played and leads the NFL WR's with 365 passing yards...no joke. He is Freeman's top target and a solid #3 WR. Blount will also have good value moving ahead as a bye week play/low end #3 RB and is a possible start here as the Cards rank 26th against the rush.

CARDINALS: Max Hall had a rookie game last week but looks to rebound but will find it hard against the Bucs 2nd ranked pass defense. Especially without a decent option at the #2 WR spot, the Bucs will be able to bring up help in stopping the run where they rank 29th in rush defense. Beanie Wells has been slowly getting his feet under him and has a great match up as mentioned. He will face a stacked box until Hall makes the Bucs back off, but the match up is still good enough to start him if better options are on a bye week. Fitzgerald has had a hard time this year with all of the changes and being the only weapon on the team. He should still get good numbers this week but it will be the run game that sees the most use.

These two teams couldn't be more opposite of where they were last year overall, but the Cardinals are still 3-3 and not going away lightly. The Bucs actually have played better and more effective on the road. I'm not being a homer here and believe that because of the Bucs better balance and new found run game they squeak another one out. TB 19- ARI 17

FANTASY STARTS: BUCS: Mike Williams (5 for 90 yds. 1 TD) Blount (12 for 60 yds. 1 TD) C. Williams (10 for 55 yds.) Winslow ( 4 for 60 yds.) ARI: Wells (14 for 70 yds. 1 TD) Fitzgerald (6 for 70 yds. 1 TD)

SLEEPER: Sammy Stroughter TB....with Rogers-Cromartie likely to shadow Williams, Stroughter is the second most reliable target who is a possession guy with good speed that can rack up yardage if the holes are there.

TENNESSEE TITANS@SAN DIEGO CHARGERS: Kenny Britt of all people has emerged as fantasy's #4 WR and has taken full advantage of teams focus on CJ. It looks like Vince Young will return after Collins played hurt last week but still managed a win. Young will face the Chargers rated 3rd pass defense and Johnson faces the Chargers 8th ranked pass rush. Where the Titans will find the most success will be special teams and the run game. Vince coming off injury, on the road, with a little rust doesn't point to another 40 point day for Britt. Expect CJ to get his usual work load but lower receiver expectations.

CHARGERS: Tennessee gets toasted by wide out's and faces a team set to get back Naanee and will have Gates a week healthier. Malcom Floyd is not scheduled to return until next week so look for Naanee to have a good first day back. Mathews has been a huge let down and will not come close to his pre season expectations. If you have Tolbert as his handcuff, he is the one I would actually start because of his red zone potential. The Titans are solid against the rush 13th so expect what we've seen from Tolbert the last few weeks in a score with low yardage.

The Titans will have a harder time against the Chargers whom are another team that despite their horrible start are still viable division contenders. SD 24- TEN 17

FANTASY STARTS: TENN: Johnson (15 for 70 yds. 1 TD) Britt ( 5 for 60 yds. 1 TD)

SD: Rivers ( 300 yds. 2 TD) Naanee ( 4 for 60 yds.) B. Davis ( 6 for 80 yds. 1 TD) Gates ( 5 for 70 yds. 1 TD) Tolbert ( 6 for 40 yds. 1 TD)

SLEEPER: Bo Scaife TEN....Tight Ends have had great success against the Chargers and Scaife could be the wild card here. Young will look for him often and Scaife catches a score.

MINNESOTA VIKINGS@ NE PATRIOTS: MINN: Favre seems like a 50-50 shot but even if he is not able to go, do not sleep on Tavaris Jackson. No he is not the leader Favre is but he is not a scrub either and has never had these weapons to throw to. They face a Patriots secondary ranked 26th against the pass and 5th against the run. Expect Tavaris to have no choice but to pass and this bumps up the value of Schiancoe if Jackson does get the start. If not, I still bump Schiancoe up because they are trying to get him more looks. Harvin should have another solid day, but look for Moss to get the lions share of the catches. Facing his old team....from....3 weeks ago, weird....Moss showed frustration last week and you can bet the Vikings want him happy. Expect them to ensure he is the biggest part of the pass game plan.

PATS: Everyone is trying to get used to this dink and dunk offense, but until Tate or somebody steps up they will continue on this path. Woodhead looks to be the changing of the guard and replacement to Welker. He is targeted often by Brady who trusts him and he is a dual role players guaraunteed to get a certain number of snaps and receptions. He is a good play here against the Vikes 6th rated pass defense. The Vikings allowed J. Jones from GB to rack up the yardage last week while they focused on the Packer's main threats. I see a similar game plan here only the Packers had more fire power. Another guy to expect and see good production out of is Aaron Hernandez whom has been impressive and will be the one who can sneak over the middle for chunks of yards.

The Vikings are in a very serious position here and now travel to New England. The Patriots need that deep threat to keep a defense like the Vikings on their heels and New England doesn't have the run game to force the Vikings up. MIN 24-NE 21.

FANTASY STARTS: MIN: Harvin ( 4 for 60 yds 1 TD/ 3 for 25yds) Moss ( 7 for 90 yds 1 TD) Peterson ( 14 for 70 yds. 1 TD/ 4 for 40 yds.) PATS: Woodhead ( 4 for 50 yds/ 6 for 35 yds.) Hernandez (4 for 60 yds. 1 TD) Welker (6 for 80 yds. 1 TD)

SLEEPER: Brandon Tate NE...The Pats have set a base line of what teams are to expect out of them now, and the deep ball is not part of that. A few surprise deep balls to him may catch the Vikings off guard.

SEATTLE SEAHAWKS@OAKLAND RAIDERS: SEATTLE: The Seahawks just continue to find ways to win despite their low ratings. What they are is effective at moving the chains when they need to and stopping the run, where they rank 2nd right now. They travel to Oakland who will put that ranking to the test with Mcfadden and Bush. Mike Williams should be lining up opposite Routt/Johnson and not Asomugha, so it will be interesting to see if Cable assigns Asomugha to Williams since he is really Seattle's only pass threat and will limit Seattle. Marshawn Lynch looks to have taken on the lead back duties, carrying over 20 times last week and faces a very porous Raider run defense. Forsett could be very involved in the pass game out the back field if and when Williams is limited in his production.

RAIDERS: They are riding high after last week and return home against an opponent more suited to expose their weaknesses. However, the Raiders will be able to afford bringing up extra help against the run this week since Seattle lacks talent depth at WR and are facing a strong secondary. The Raiders plan should be simple, use Mcfadden to set up the pass. While Seattle is good at stopping the run, they have not faced a team as effective at running the ball as Oakland. Mcfadden will come back to human status this week but still post decent numbers and Campbell could have another surprise day against this secondary. Zach Miller will be more involved since Murphy looks to miss this game with a bruised lung. Heyward-Bey could possibly become a fantasy factor, but when Murphy has been out in the past he has failed to produce.

The loss of Louis Murphy will make this a low scoring affair since each team will be somewhat one dimensional for the defensive match up's. Oakland's defense has been creating pressure for opposing QB's and are on a roll since beating San Diego. After last week, they must be prepared.

OAK 24-SEA 21.

FANTASY STARTS: SEA: Lynch (17 for 80 yds. 1 TD) Forsett (6 for 35 yds/ 5 for 50 yds. 1 TD) OAK: Mcfadden (15 for 70 yds. 1 TD) Miller (7 for 80 yds. 1 TD) Bush ( 7 for 50 yds. 1 TD)

SLEEPER: Carlson SEA...widely ignored this year, he will be the best chance at Seattle moving the ball through the air.

PITTSBURGH STEELERS@NO SAINTS: PITT: Big Ben has sparked the pass game, making Miller, Wallace, and Ward fantasy studs again. Expect a performance much like last week though as New Orleans is very good against the pass (3rd) but weaker against the run. The defense is very similar to Miami although Mendenhall should find room against the Saints middle of the pack run defense. This will be Ben's second road game with a tough match up for him. As stated, the numbers for your fantasy guys should be similar to last week except for Mendenhall. Look for Heath Miller to be more involved as the Steelers opt for those short intermediate throws and the run game to move the ball.

SAINTS: They can still pass the ball, and that's where the Steelers can be beat. The Steelers 3rd ranked rush defense doesn't bode well for Ivory. Chris Ivory should be very ineffective this week and warrants a benching if you have options. Look for Brees to throw a hell of a lot to exploit this secondary.

The Steelers face their second straight road game and Ben faces an even tougher match up than last week. While Mendenhall will ease the pressure, the Saints pass game should be effective and prove to score more than the Steeler Offense can. NO 28-PITT 21

FANTASY STARTS: PITT: Mendenhall (15 for 80 yds. 1 TD) Ward (7 for 65 yds 1 TD) Miller (5 for 60 yds. 1 TD) SAINTS: Moore ( 6 for 70 yds 1 TD) Colston (5 for 80 yds. 1 TD) Meachem (4 for 60 yds. 1 TD)

SLEEPER: Ladell Betts NO....While Ivory will get the nod with Bush and Thomas out, I like Betts the best to score. The Steeler defense is nasty and effective against suave backs like Ivory. Betts is hard nosed and can push the pile on a short yardage red zone situation. Don't expect big yardage, but he may be good for a score.