Analyzing a draft.

I had my first fantasy football draft on July 20th. It turned out very interesting. I had the 6th pick in a 12 team league, which is not my favorite spot to draft. I prefer either end of the line.

My Team breaks down as follows for a QB Heavy type league.

1. R. Johnson - RB
2. T. Holt - WR
3. T. Jones - RB NYJ
4. M. Colston - WR
5. M. Lynch - RB
6. M. Barber - RB
7. Cal. Johnson - WR Det
8. M. Leinart - QB
9. J. Cutler - QB
10. R. McMichael - TE
11. Vikings -DST
12. A. Thomas - BUF
13. Josh Brown - K
14. W. Welker - WR


I like this team. I got my 3rd rated RB at #6, and my top rater WR in the 2nd round.

The only weak spot I have is at QB, when Tom Brady got sniped in front of me in the 2nd rd. (pick 18), So I got to take Holt at 19. Then when I was looking at my 5th overall QB Phillip Rivers, he got sniped 1 spot in front of me in rd 6. So I took Barber as a time was running out sort of panic. Rivers went 66 overall. Jon Kitna also got gobbled up at #87 before I had to settle and take Leinart at 91. I grabbed Cutler the next round, with the theory that one of the kids would work out. Eli Manning went at 89.

Surprises at the QB position wer that Vince Young went at #40. I think that is overrating him significantly. I have Young as my 15th QB, based on his upside. But he was drafted ahead of QBs like Rivers, Matt Hasslebeck, Jake Delhomme, and Brett Favre. This is a very high ranking for a 2nd year quarterback that is less accurate than Michael Vick. Sure he makes plays with his feet, but that is a very risky proposition to put into your starting QB and a 4th round guy. Players that could have been taken instead include, the afor mentioned QBs, D. McAlister, Jamal Lewis, Tatum Bell, Cedric Benson, A. Boldin, M. Colston, J. Walker, Lee Evans, and Darrell Jackson. That's putting a lot of faith in a guy that only got the Madden Curse, er I mean the cover because Tomlinson didn't want it.

Tony Romo at #72 overall was a surprise as well... I guess it just means people are still drinking the Big Blue Kool Aid. I have him as my 21st QB overall, and he went ahead of my 9-14th ranked QBs. We'll have to see how that one plays out. All I know is I would rather have Kitna (9), than Romo.

The other big surprise in a position is at TE. Tony Gonzalez went 39 overall. He still seems to be living on name recognition. I have him as my 8th ranked TE. His offense is going to be terrible this year, with no real answer at QB, and no WRs to speak of. Tony will be doubled frequently, if not held at the line to block for the weakening O-Line. Gonzo would be a good TE, just not at #39. He belongs in the mid-late rounds with the rest of the TEs these days.

The steal of the draft is going to be Wes Welker. He will get a lot of open looks with Watson, Maroney, Some guy named Moss, and Stallworth flanking all the defenders. Welker could have a better season in NE than he did in Miami.

The Running Back steal of the Draft is LaMont Jordan at #116. He was a top 10 RB last year, and after a season of being in a terrible offense with an OC that was a bed and breakfast owner, people are really down on LaMont. I wouldn't hesitate to have him as my 3rd RB this year, and if his draft slot is any indication, you can easily have him for your 4th RB.

Braylon Edwards was drafted at 117, and I have him as my 17th WR. I may need to rework his slotting because of the QB situation in Cleveland, since Brady Quinn doesn't want to sign. Joe Horn and Mark Clayton were drafted way too early (82, 52). Atlanta could be the worst team in the league, especially with Joey Heatherton throwing the ball, and Baltimore is a run first team, with an ancient QB. I'm staying away from those 2 this year. Mike Furrey also went undrafted this draft. I have him as my 37th WR. Meanwhile, Terry Glenn, my 35th WR went at 53. These are just some oddities that show how far name recognition goes for some people.

Well that is all for this draft. I have a few coming up that I may go over, but I expect many will be similar to this.

Be on the look out for my updated rankings coming in a week or so.

Best of luck to you all this draft season!

Top 25 TEs 2007

Time for the top 25 TEs.

Only the first 10-15 matter, but We're going to do more than we need.


1. Antonio Gates - SD
2. Jeremy Shockey - NYG
3. Todd Heap - BAL
4. Vernon Davis - SF
5. LJ Smith - PHI
6. Alge Crumpler - ATL
7. Ben Watson - NE
8. Tony Gonzalez - KC
9. Kellen Winslow - CLE
10. Randy McMichael - StL
11. Chris Cooley - WAS
12. Heath Miller - PIT
13. Jason Witten - DAL
14. Dallas Clark - IND
15. Owen Daniels - HOU
16. Marcedes Lewis - JAX
17. Greg Olsen - CHI
18 David Martin - MIA
19. Daniel Graham - DEN
20. Tony Sheffler - DEN
21. Visante Shancoe - MIN
22. Leonard Pope - ARI
23. Ben Troupe - TEN
24. Eric Johnson - NO
25. Desmond Clark - CHI


Antonio Gates is head and shoulders above the rest of the TEs. He's the only TE you'd consider drafting in the upper 3 rounds. Everyone else is just details.

Tony Gonzalez is showing up in his lowest ranking in years. This is because of the low hope of the KC Offensive Line. KC doesn't have as good a QB as they used to have. Therefore, Gonzo is expected to stay in and block more than usual. He is still a good choice in the later rounds, but not the top 3 TE he was going into last year.

Everyone else is rather unremarkable. Randy McMichael could enjoy a resurgence in a new town, with a better quarterback. He could be vastly under rated at #10.

Top 50 WRs in 2007.

Here we go... Gotta keep on keepin' on.

Now we have my Top 50 WRs.

1. Torry Holt - StL 2. Steve Smith - CAR
3. Larry Fitzgerald - ARI 4. Chad Johnson - CIN
5. Roy Williams - DET 6. Marvin Harrison - IND
7. Javon Walker -DEN 8. Reggie Wayne - IND
9. Terrell Owens - DAL 10. Randy Moss - NE
11. Donald Driver - GB 12. Anquan Boldin - ARI
13. TJ Houshmandzaden - CIN 14. Marques Colston - NO
15. Hines Ward - PIT 16. Andre Johnson - HOU
17. Braylon Edwards - CLE 18. Lee Evans - BUF
19. Chris Chambers - MIA 20. Darrell Jackson - SF
21. Plaxico Burress - NYG 22. Calvin Johnson - DET
23. Reggie Brown - PHI 24. Vincent Jackson - SD
25. Laveranues Coles - NYJ 26. Santana Moss - WAS
27. Matt Jones - JAX 28. Greg Jennings - GB
29. Jerricho Cotchery - NYJ 30. Donte Stalworth - NE
31. Joey Galloway - TB 32. Muhsin Muhammad - CHI
33. Santonio Holmes - PIT 34. DJ Hackett - SEA
35. Terry Glenn - DAL 36. Ronald Curry - OAK
37. Mike Furrey - DET 38. Kevin Curtis - PHI
39. Bernard Berrian - CHI 40. Drew Bennett - StL
41. Robert Meachem - NO 42. Mark Clayton - BAL
43. Brandon Jones - TEN 44. Joe Horn - ATL
45. Deion Branch - SEA 46. Jerry Porter - OAK
47. Brandon Marshall - DEN 48. Wes Welker - NE
49. Sidney Rice - MIN 50. Troy Williamson - MIN



I have Torry Holt as my #1 WR this year. He is, year in year out, one of the top 5 WRs in the league. While in the QB ranks that's enough to bump Peyton Manning down, in the WRs that's consistency that you have to have on your roster.

I ranked Randy Moss back in the top 10, simply because he moved to New England. I think under the tutiledge of Bill Belichick and Tom Brady, Moss will return to his former forceful self. He may have lost a step, but his desire to win a ring, overcomes any of that jazz.

Last year's 7th round phenom Marques Colston vaulted into the top 15. He is the number 1 option in a pass happy New Orleans offense. Rookie Robert Meecham should win the number 2 job and form one of the top WR tandems in the league catching balls from Drew Brees.

Top 50 RBs of 2007

Here we go... Time to list the top 50 RBs heading into this year. Like my QB list, this one should have a few surprises.

So without further ado...

1. Ladanian Tomlinson - SD 2. Steven Jackson - StL
3. Rudi Johnson -CIN 4. Shaun Alexander - SEA
5. Larry Johnson - KC 6. Frank Gore - SF
7. Brian Westbrook - PHI 8. Laurence Maroney - NE
9. Maurice Jones-Drew - Jax 10. Joseph Addai - IND
11. Reggie Bush - NO 12. Ronnie Brown - MIA
13. Willie Parker - PIT 14. Clinton Portis - WAS
15. Thomas Jones - NYJ 16. Marion Barber - DAL
17. Edgerrin James - ARI 18. Cedric Benson - CHI
19. Travis Henry - DEN 20. Willis McGahee - BAL
21. Duece McAlister - NO 22. Brandon Jacobs - NYG
23. Carnell Williams - TB 24. Adrian Peterson -MIN
25. Marshawn Lynch - BUF 26. DeAngelo Williams - CAR
27. Chris Henry - TEN 28. LaMont Jordan - OAK
29. Ahman Green - HOU 30. Jamal Lewis - CLE
31. Chester Taylor - MIN 32. Warrick Dunn - ATL
33. Tatum Bell - DET 34. DeShaun Foster - CAR
35. Jerious Norwood - ATL 36. Julius Jones - DAL
37. Verand Morency - GB 38. Ladell Betts - WAS
39. Fred Taylor - JAX 40. Brandon Jackson - GB
41. Michael Turner - SD 42. Mike Bell - DEN
43. Anthony Thomas - BUF 44. LenDale White - TEN
45. Leon Washington - NYJ 46. Reuben Droughns - NYG
47. TJ Duckett - DET 48. Ron Dayne - HOU
49. Dominic Rhodes - OAK 50. Kevin Jones - DET

LT is the predominate rusher in Fantasy Football. He might not score as many TDs this year, as last, because Phillip Rivers has come into his own. However, he still is the undisputed #1 overall in Fantasy land.

LJ, Last years #2 heading into the preseason, is bumped down to #5. He's still a great player, and heading into a contract year. However, his coach has stated that he is not going to be used as much, his line got worse, his QB got worse, and Michael Bennett could steal some of his 400 carries from last year.

Steven Jackson is this years #2 RB. He does it all in St. Louis. He catches out of the backfield, and rushes more than anyone wants to give him credit for. Since Marshall Faulk went down, Jackson has become the focal point of the offense. Being surrounded by Marc Bulger, Torry Holt, Ike Bruce, and whoever else wants to catch passes, tends to leave Jackson with more running room than most rushers in the NFL.

Brian Westbrook is much like Jackson, in that he does it all, and has a great team surrounding him. He isn't ranked higher because he has a history of injury. However, last year he proved he could handle 90% of the season, which moved him up from the late teens to #8. I have a lot of faith in Westbrook, and wouldn't mind him as a #1 RB, depending where you draft.

The rest of the backs have their reasons for being where they are, if you have any questions, feel free to email me at eikey1729@sbcglobal.net.

Rhodes is 49 because he got himself suspended for 4 games for a DUI in Oaktown shortly after moving out there.
Kevin Jones is currently 50th, because noone knows if he will play this season. If he does play, you would move him closer to Tatum Bell (while moving Bell down). The Detroit backfield could be a complete mess this year, and I'd probably just stay away from it, like I do with Denver's Backfield.

Top 25 QBs of 2007

It's that time, finally. Time to start looking at the player rankings for 2007. I'll start this series by listing my top 25 QBs. I chose 25 because if you are in a 12 team league, like many of you are, then that leaves a starter and a backup for each team. So without further ado, lets get started!

Hopefully these rankings won't scare you too much.

1. Tom Brady - NE
2. Peyton Manning - IND
3. Carson Palmer - CIN
4. Drew Brees - NO
5. Phillip Rivers - SD
6. Donovan McNabb - PHI
7. Marc Bulger - STL
8. Matt Hasselbeck - SEA
9. Jon Kitna - DET
10. Matt Leinart - ARI
11. Jay Cutler - DEN
12. Brett Favre - GB
13. Eli Manning - NYG
14. Michael 'Ron Mexico' Vick - ATL
15. Vince Young - TEN
16. Jake Delhomme - CAR
1 7. Ben Roethlisberger - PIT
18. Chad Pennington - NYJ
19. J.P. Losman - BUF
20. Rex Grossman - CHI
21. Tony Romo - DAL
22. Matt Schaub - HOU
23. Jason Campbell - WAS
24. Byron Leftwich - JAX
25. Steve McNair - BAL

I know it may come as some surprise to see Peyton Manning not listed as the #1 QB, by myself. Many outlets indeed do have the elder Manning as their number 1 QB. I suppose I should attempt to rationalize this. First, I absolutely love what the Patriots have done to their receiving corps this off season. Adding Randy Moss is easily the best reason to bump Brady. However, they also added Donte Stallworth and Wes Welker, as fabulous counterparts to Moss. The receiving corp, has suddenly gotten so swollen that it may be hard to find Troy Brown a spot on this roster. Keep in mind that Brady has a great tight end in Ben Watson, and Laurance Maroney who can catch passes out of the backfield. Without a true 'Goal Line Back' the Patriots could be forced to throw it in from 10 yds out, which is how Peyton Manning got all his touchdowns a few years ago.

Secondly, Peyton Manning's big claim to fame is that he is consistent week to week. Which if you are pulling a mid first round pick, Manning would be a great choice. However, you need to remember that Manning has rarely finished as the number 1 overall fantasy quarterback. Last year he wouldn't have gotten close if McNabb hadn't blown out a knee in week 9. While I appreciate all of Manning's skill and prowess for putting up points, I just don't think that he will be this year's number 1. Harrison is getting older, and was showing signs last year of losing a step. Joseph Addai has to prove that he can handle a full year as the feature back, now that Dominic Rhodes has moved on to Oakland to get a fresh set of DUIs.

Another surprising top 10 guy, is Jon Kitna. This just shows what kind of faith I have in the Mad Scientists offense. Kitna was among the leaders in yardage last year. He just needs some more TDs to go with it. Calvin Johnson, and Roy Williams should be all the Lions need to bolster those numbers. Also the Detroit running game looks dismal at best, with Kevin Jones, not likely to do anything special after Lis Franc surgery on his foot. Tatum Bell, TJ Duckett, and Shawn Bryson really aren't going to strike fear into the hearts of defenses, but they may be respectable enough to keep defenses from playing the pass too much. Also Detroit gets to play the Vikings Secondary twice, so that should help.

Five more QBs to keep an eye on.
1. Trent Green - MIA
2. Damon Huard - KC
3. Brady Quinn - CLE
4. Jeff Garcia - TB
5. Tarvaris Jackson - MIN

Green got an off season relocation to Miami. There he will have better receivers to throw to, and a decent running game to back him up. Green has also been among the league leaders before 2006, when he got his bell rung and missed most of the season. The knock this year on Green, is that Miami's O-Line isn't all that great. It could protect him well enough, but all it did last year is get Daunte Cullpepper nearly killed. Trent is just one good hit away from being knocked into retirement, so if you need a late round flier on a proven commodity, Green might be your man.

Damon Huard, Green's replacement is penciled in as the starter in KC. However, word out of Arrowhead is that the Chief's will do everything they can to make Brodie Croyle the starter. Huard proved last year that he is capable of handling the starter's gig. He played well enough to support fantasy teams, but not well enough to star. He does have Larry Johnson, who should put up fantastic numbers again this year, regardless of the troubles that have gone on with their O-Line. Although, if Croyle wins the job, don't expect Johnson or the Chief's to do anything fantastic this year.

Brady Quinn, has the weapons on Offense to do so damage, and a rebuilt O-Line to protect him. However, being a rookie, he needs to prove it in camp. Quinn would also be helped out with a running game. The Browns currently have no one of name, unless you think an old Jamal Lewis is going to regain his prior form. Quinn also needs to be able to beat out Charlie Frye to win the job, which could pose a bit of a challenge to the rookie. Most pundits seem to think that that won't be too hard. Look for Quinn to be one of the more surprising players this year.

Jeff Garcia - He should win the job in Tampa. Even though he has a sub-par offensive line. A running back coming off of a disappointing 2nd year, and a group of under performing wide outs. Will he be able to reproduce the magic that made him millions coming out of Philly? Doubtful. But he's good enough to keep an eye on.

Tarvaris Jackson - Umm.... He's the starter in Minnesota. That's worth something. His wide outs aren't stellar, but he does have a terrific running game with Adrian Peterson and Chester Taylor. Plus Jackson can move a little when pressure is on. His O-Line SHOULD be the best in the league this year, after a year of gelling all the new parts together. However, he is from a small school, and didn't do anything last year to prove he's worthy of fantasy consideration. Like Garcia, he's just a guy to keep an eye on should your drafted QBs falter or get hurt.

Likely to go BUST in the night -

1. JaMarcus Russel - OAK - Rookie, bad offense, another new young coach. Could be the worst #1/#1 since Ryan Leaf.
2. Steve McNair - BAL - Old, losing his trick, can't run anymore. No targets to throw at that stay healthy. McGahee ain't going to save the ground game either.
3. Tony Romo - DAL - Was the media darling for 4 games. Then defenses figured him out. Throw in the fact that the last time we saw him on the field, he was crying. I don't see him doing much of anything this year.
4. Brett Favre - GB - Just a flat out wild card. Favre is always planning on retiring, but never goes through with it. He had a decent season last year, but is only one season away from setting an INT mark. He has good young WRs, but no ground game to speak of. He could be great this year, or he could be awful. That's the chance you take with the gunslinger from cheddar town.
5. Chad Pennington - NYJ - Chad had a decent year last year, only because nobody expected it. He is accurate, but still has a wet noodle for an arm. Thomas Jones should take pressure off Pennington, leading to lower overall numbers for Chad. He could be a serviceable backup, or he might not get out of the Preseason. Such is the chance you take with the leader of Gang Green.



There you have it, my predictions on the QBs this season. If you have any comments, criticisms, concerns, or questions, feel free to email me at eikey1729@yahoo.com . There is a direct link on the side bar of this blog. Hope you all have a great season!

Be on the look out for my top 50 RBs coming soon!

Ahhhh the Sports Abyss of July

July has got to be the single-worst month for sports. The NHL is done with their playoffs, the NBA is done, and their draft is over. All you have left is the most pointless month in MLB to pay attention to. What is worse, the NFL is still a month away from opening training camps.

Is there any reason to be paying attention to the sports pages in July? Absolutely. Especially if you are a Fantasy Football player. This is prime time to be tracking your team if it's a keeper league, and setting your player rankings if you redraft each year.

July is also a great month to catch up on the movers and shakers in the NFL, that you may have missed while watching the great hockey playoffs this year.

In the coming weeks I'm going to get my player lists in order, and post them here for the world to see. Hopefully some people will take my advice, and take heart in the rankings that will be released. Perhaps then a few people can even beat me this year.

Last year in 4 leagues, I had all 4 of my teams make the playoffs of their respected leagues. I won one championship, and a couple seconds and a third. This year I look to improve on those numbers, as I prove that yes, I really do know my stuff when it comes to this silly but great game.

I'll be posting my lists in this order, Top 25 QBs, Top 50 RBs, Top 50 WRs, Top 25 TEs, Top 20 Team Defense/Special Teams, and top 20 K. And if there's time, a composite list.

And yes, when I get done with these rankings, I'll be using them in all my drafts this year.

As always, my email address on the side bar is available for those with questions that need answering. I'll do my best to get back to you as soon as possible.

Good luck to all this year!

"I look forward to teaching you"

These were some of the famous last words uttered by MeShawn Johnson on National TV at the NFL Draft, after the Carolina Panthers selected Dewayne Jarrett from USC.

"The News
In a surprise move, the Panthers released wide receiver Keyshawn Johnson on Tuesday. "They said they wanted to get younger," Johnson told the St. Petersburg Times. "That's fine with me. I'd like to go somewhere and help win another Super Bowl." He signed a four-year contract with Carolina last year and finished the season with 70 receptions for 815 yards and four touchdowns."

-fanball.com

All I have to say is, I hope Keyshawn taught Jarrett a lot in those 5 days.

As for the fantasy implications of this move, this elevates Steve Smith even higher on the overall boards, and cements as the #1 WR in the fantasy world. However, he does need a legitimate partner to emerge on the other side to take away some double and triple coverages. Keary Colbert and Drew Carter will be the leaders in the clubhouse for the gig. Of course there is always a chance that 'Dale' Jarrett could emerge from the pack without Meshawns tutelage and take over the gig.

Keep an eye on this scenario over the summer as you head into your drafts.

Are we done with Tony Romo now?

First off, before I go on my rant, I'd like to apologize for not keeping up on my writings here as of late. I've been having a rough time with various illnesses and such that have kept me away from the computer, and from concentrating on the postseason of the NFL. I've still got a cold today, but this particular topic is one that has gotten my ire up enough that I'm going to fight through the coughs and the sniffles to blast one Tony Romo.

I believe it was after the Thanksgiving day massacre of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers where Romo threw five touchdown passes that a fantasy football writer and commentator that I highly respect was commenting that 'Next year Tony Romo will be a Top Five fantasy quarterback.'. I about crapped my pants. Are you kidding me? When it was announced that we would be taking over for Drew Statue, er I mean Bledsoe the only nice thing these guys could say about him was that he was athletic enough to get out of the pocket when his line broke down. Suddenly, five weeks, and only 3 of them were what i would call good fantasy games later, and he's a Top 5 into 2007?

Thankfully, Romomania fell on its face in the following weeks. That Thanksgiving day game was the high point against a terrible Bucs team. In the following weeks he only had one game that was fantasy starter worthy. In week 13, the Giants crushed him again, but one lucky pass to Jason Witten to save the game covered up his 0TD 2INT performance, and kept the Romo love train rolling. In week 14 he totally got shown up by Drew Brees, while dropping another 2INT performance on us, yet somehow, the Romo love train kept right on track, while the Cowboys chances at the Division were slipping away. In week 15 he got to beat up on a terrible Atlanta Falcons team that was in free fall mode. Week 16 was a good time to showcase how far he had fallen, leading the Cowboys to a season low 7 points against the surging Eagles, effectively handing them the Eastern Division lead. In that game, Romo completed less than 50% of his passes and had 2INTs, yet people STILL thought he was a great QB. In week 17, he lost to the Lions. The stats are irrelevant. He lost to the LIONS!

Then we come to the post season. After choking away a chance at hosting a game, they have to go on the road to play a Seattle team that was in the Super Bowl last year. Granted, that Seahawks team isn't as good as it was last year, but it still won its division in a year of adversity. Even in this game I didn't think Romo played particularly well. They were in it at the end thanks to a kickoff return for a touchdown. Once we get under the last two minutes of the game we get the funnest play of the year for me. This is where Gramatica is setting up to kick the go ahead field goal.

Romo began the year as the holder, and ended the year as the holder. As the holder for the Cowboys, he botched the hold, and let the ball slip through his hands. He then picked the ball up and tried to run for another shot, before being tackled from behind. Granted, Gramatica could have blocked the tackler better to give Romo a chance, but that didn't happen.

We are left with numerous scenes of Romo crying on the field, crying on the bench, and crying as he leaves the field.

Where does this leave Romo heading into the Fantasy Season in 2007? Before the draft this weekend, I'm not ready to put him in the top ten, and close to the bottom of the top 20. I wouldn't trust him to be my starter, unless you pull him with with a 9th pick, and your team is stacked. Romo, at this time, is best suited as a backup caller on your team.

Of course, we'll see how this all shakes out come closer to August.

Welcome Back!

Welcome back to the fun and frivolity that is the National Football League!

With one week left of full football action, a certain sadness enters my heart, as I know that soon, we will soon enter the great sports abyss known as "summer". Enjoy this week as much as you can. Especially, if your favorite team is not making a push into the playoffs. (Stupid Vikings).

From a Fantasy Football perspective, Week 17 should find you with your feet kicked up, championship in hand, with nothing to do but enjoy your favorite team and/or beverage. However, I am sure there are a few silly leagues out there that have to have their championship settled this week. Those games are always thrilling. Teams normally led by studs like LaDanian Tomlinson, and Peyton Manning, starting Fantasy duds like Jeff Garcia and Ron Dayne. This is the reason that many leagues settle their championships on week 16. Week 17 has been notorious for the top NFL teams to sit Fantasy Stalwarts, or play them for such limited time, that it is not worth inserting them into your fantasy lineup.

In my keeper league, I made this mistake for one year. I was a proud Commish, telling the players that made it the finals, you are that good- find a way to one more. Which just isn't fair. The other side of this, is the pure scheduling benefits you can use for a week 16 championship. In my big keeper league, we have 12 teams, 3 divisions. We have 14 weeks of games, this breaks down to playing everyone once, and your division twice. The three division winners go to the playoffs with one Wild Card, which for three years, has been a hotly contested race. It's great fun. Just to keep things interesting, the last 8 teams that didn't make the championship playoffs, get to fight it out in a 3 week playoff, that settles in week 17, but it doesn't change draft order or anything, so a week 17 title here is meaningless.

But to those that do have a week 17 Championship game this weekend, good luck! May you have Marc Bulger lead you to greatness this weekend.

Merry Christmas!

I will be on vacation this weekend, and not necessarily near a computer enough to get to all the match-ups that I would like to do. I will still be checking email, so those of you that are checking in regularly and have questions, please don't hesitate to email me.

That said, I wish each of you that sees this a Merry Christmas, and a joyous holiday season, not least of which one that sees you winning your fantasy championship.

If you are in one of those silly leagues that plays in week 17, I should be back in time to break down those match-ups for you.

Happy Holidays.

Best wishes to you and yours.

Start Em Sit Em Thursday Night.

Thursday Night


Minnesota @ Green Bay

This game could be the last of Brett Favre, at Curly Lambeau Field. This game will also mark the first start for second round pick, rookie Tarvaris Jackson. Perhaps you've heard this story line on ANY of the major sports outlets.

Breaking this game down, from a fantasy perspective, is going to be extremely easy. Right now there is a huge winter storm brewing in the mid-west that could wreck havoc over Green Bay tonight. If that is the case, you sit down Favre and his receivers. Jackson and his receivers shouldn't be anywhere near your starting line up anyway. If this is the case, the only plays from this game would be Chester Taylor, and the the 2 team defenses. Why is Ahman Green not included in this? The Vikings have the best rush defense in the league, and with no passing game to worry about, the Vikings can stuff Green pretty well.

If there was ever a time to hop on Chester Taylor, and ride him to a Championship, this is the week to do it. The Packers have a weak rushing defense, and the Vikes have a strong offensive line that has figured out how to rush against everyone but a 3-4 defense. With a Rookie QB at the helm, they may try and run even more than before, to try and limit the chances he has to make a mistake, while giving him the confidence he needs to make plays in the NFL. Look for Taylor to put up big numbers this week, as his Rib injury seems to not be bothering him too much. If you are stretched for a running back this week, Mewelde Moore could be an interesting option as well. He is shifty and refuses to go down when he gets the ball. That screen he caught against the Jets last week was a thing of beauty.

Overall this is going to be an ugly ugly game that the Vikings should win. However, fantasy players will lose in, as there won't be many points to be harvested from.

Start Em
Chester Taylor, RB - MIN
Mewelde Moore, RB - MIN
Vikings Defense
Packers Defense

Sit Em
Brett Favre, QB - GB
Tarvaris Jackson, QB- MIN
Ahman Green, RB - GB
Travis Taylor, WR - MIN
Marcus Robinson, WR - MIN
Troy Williamson, WR - MIN
Donald Driver, WR - GB (If weather is BAD - If weather is ok, only offensive start on GB)
Greg Jennings, WR - GB
Jermaine Wiggins, TE - MIN
Bubba Franks, TE - GB
etc..

Good luck in your fantasy playoffs!

Start Em Sit Em Week 15 (Saturday/Sunday)

Saturday Night:
Dallas @ Atlanta
Start Em Dallas
M. Barber, RB
T. Glenn, WR
T. Owens, WR (?)
T. Romo, QB

Sit Em Dallas
J. Jones, RB
P. Crayton, WR
J. Witten, TE

In recent weeks three trends have taken place in Dallas. First, Tony Romo has come back to Earth after his rocket blast start. Second, Marion Barber has emerged as the best running back in the cowboys backfield. Lastly, Terrell Owens has developed a nice trend of dropping 3 balls a game. What does all this mean for fantasy owners in the playoffs? Marion Barber is a must start now against a soft Falcons rush defense, who have given up 11 rushing TDs this year. Julius Jones is a bench play this week, because as he showed last week, all he is good for is a home run shot. He can't be counted on to do anything with any consistency. Barber is a better bet to get yards and TDs, as he is even getting more carries in games lately. Romo has fallen back to Earth in recent weeks. Throwing 1 Td and 4 ints the last two games. He stays on the start side on potential alone, one more stinker and I'm benching him next week against the Eagles in a game with NFL playoff implications. The WRs are all shaky plays this week. Owens has been dropping a lot of balls lately. It's probably because he's worried about the snitch on the team ratting him out that he's not that good. Oh wait... Maybe the snitch is putting butter on his gloves before he leaves the locker room! Yea... that's the ticket. Either way, starting Owens is basically taking your playoff life in your hands this weekend. If you have safer options this week go with them.

Start Em Atlanta
M. Vick, QB
J. Griffin, RB (?) - Only if Dunn is OUT
W. Dunn, RB (?) - Questionable - Knee - Practiced Friday
A. Crumpler, TE

Sit Em Atlanta
J. Norwood, RB Doubtful- Leg
All WRs

Keep an eye on the active list before the game before starting Dunn, he is highly questionable to start tonight. If he is unable to go don't hesitate to start J. Griffin. He is a fullback that has some bruising skill that can keep Dallas off balance. Mike Vick makes a good play because he can always run for more 'TDs' than most QBs can throw for. Alge Crumpler is a must start in all leagues, as he is the best receiver on Atlanta. He has shown the ability to track down Vick's highly inaccurate passes the best of anyone. Unlike the Receivers, when Crumpler tracks down the ball, he can also hold on to it.

Last add, I'd just avoid the Atlanta running backs completely tonight, there is just too much confusion. You wouldn't want to get trapped in another Ciatrick Fason/Artrose Pinner situation in the playoffs. If you have a healthy option on another team, start them. They will be a better option anyway than anything against a firm Dallas rush defense at home.

Sundays Games:

Cle @ Bal
Start Em Cle
D. Northcutt, WR
K. Winslow, TE -Questionable - Knee (questionable Start)
B. Edwards, WR

Sit Em Cle
D. Andersen, QB
C. Frye, QB -Doubtful - Wrist
All Cleveland RB

Cleveland is going up against a very stiff Baltimore defense today, at Baltimore. Logic dictates that Cleveland shouldn't do anything in this game. But folks, this is the NFL. Baltimore's defense is the best in fantasy football against the run, and Cleveland doesn't have a running game. That is why you leave all your Cleveland RBs on the bench, if they are still on your roster. Baltimore's passing defense is also pretty sweet, but Andersen is still in his first 4 games of starting so he has some of that 'rookie mystique' to him, so his receivers might still put up some numbers. Edwards can do things after the catch so he makes a good play. All that said, on paper, Baltimore SHOULD dominate every facet of this game. That is why I'm picking the Browns as an upset of the day special.

Start Em Bal
S. McNair, QB
J. Lewis, RB
T. Heap, TE
M. Clayton, WR

Sit Em Bal
D. Mason, WR

The most notable thing about this game is that in recent weeks, Mark Clayton has passed Derrick Mason in everything but name only for the #1 WR on the team. Todd heap is still the first option, but Clayton has become the better deep threat on the team. Mason is also nursing a thigh injury, though he is listed as probable on the injury report. McNair makes a good play this week against a Browns defense that has allowed Trent Green to throw 4 TDs on them 2 weeks ago, and Ben Roethlesberger to throw 2 TDs last week. Jamal Lewis has a chance to shred the Browns defense this weekend as well. It was against the Browns that he set his record in 2003.

Det @ GB
Start Em Det
J. Kitna, QB
R. Williams, WR
M. Furrey, WR

Sit Em Det
M. Campbell, TE
K. Jones, RB OUT - Lis Franc - Career Ending???
A. Harris, RB

Super sneaky ninja pick
A. Cason, RB
I don't suggest using this if you have any chance of winning. This is mostly just to publish ahead of time, so that when he does go 'Artrose Pinner' on the bit, and rattle off 3 TDs against the Pack, that I can say HA HA! I told you so! This is mostly in response to Pinner, Karney, and Shipp in recent weeks sniping touchdowns from real fantasy players.

Mike Martz, the Mad Scientist has been great at throwing the rock around all year. This trend should continue this weekend against the weakest pass defense in the NFL. I don't think the Lions will run effectively enough though to warrant starting a RB now that Jones is out for the year. Furrey makes a great play as he has caught nine passes in each of the last 2 weeks.

Start Em GB
B. Favre, QB
D. Driver, WR
G. Jennings, WR
R. Martin, WR
A. Green, RB

Sit Em GB
B. Franks, TE
D, Martin, TE - Questionable, Ribs

If Minnesota can put up 30 on the Lions with their anemic offense, Brett Favre should be able to carve up the Motor City Kitties. Fantasy owners should ride their Packers to victory this weekend.

Hou @ NE

Start Em Hou
None

Sit Em Hou
A. Johnson, WR
D. Carr, QB
W. Lundy, RB
R. Dayne, RB
O. Daniels. TE

The Patriots lost last week 21-0 to the Dolphins. The Texans are just this side of terrible. The Patriots could be mad. The Patriots are at home. It's virtually impossible for the Patriots to lay two eggs in a row. If this game was in week 8 or something, I'd probably start Johnson. but in the Playoffs, I'm not taking a chance on Johnson. Just leave your Texans on the bench, if they catch fire so be it.

Start Em NE
T. Brady, QB
R. Caldwell, WR
C. Dillion, RB

Sit Em NE
L. Maroney, RB - OUT, Ribs
D. Gabriel, WR - Out, Cut.
B. Watson, TE - OUT, Belichick random injury.
D. Graham, TE - Questionable, Ankle, or Concussion.
C. Jackson, WR - Questionable, Talent


Jax @ Ten
Start Em Jax
M. Jones-Drew, RB
E. Wilford, WR
F. Taylor, RB

Sit Em Jax
D. Garrad, QB
G. Wrightster, TE
M. Jones, WR

Jacksonville proved last week against the Colts that their success under David Garrad lies on the ground. For this to happen Fraud Taylor and MoJo Drew need to be on the top of their game. Early in the week both of them had hamstring injuries, which really isn't a surprise considering all the running those two did. Both should be fine this week against the Titans. Speaking of the Titans, they really aren't as good as they are trying to be. They are playing inspired football right now, but the Jaguars have the talent on offense to stop that nonsense. Wilford is still the 'Go-Near' guy for Garrad, but if he is only going to throw 14 times a game, niether one makes a great play.


Start Em Ten
V. Young, QB
D. Bennett, WR

Sit Em Ten
B. Jones, WR
T. Henry, RB - Questionable, Ankle
C. Brown, RB - Questionable, Talent
B. Scaife, TE - Questionable, Ankle

Vince Young has the speed, quickness, and agility to break the ankles of his opponents. Looking at the injury report this week it looks like he's doing it in practice too. He is really the only play this week, because he is much like Mike Vick, talented enough to make plays with their feet. I wouldn't start the RBs because the Jacksonville front 7 is very good. D. Bennett is really the only WR worth playing this week.

Mia @ Buf
Start Em Mia
J. Harrington, QB
M. Booker, WR
W. Welker, WR
R. McMichael, TE

Sit Em Mia
C. Chambers, WR
S. Morris, RB
R. Brown, RB - Out hand

This is one of the hardest games to read this week. If this one were in Miami it would be much easier. The weather could be an issue in Buffalo, which would cause some concern for the Miami passing game. For some odd reason the most talented receiver on the team has been phased out. Chambers hasn't been productive at all this season, and therefore you can't trust him in your playoffs. Marty Booker has the hot hand, and is worthy of starting this week. Harrington has been surprisingly adequate this year. If the weather is an issue, Sammy Morris could be a good play this week. I'm still not going to trust my team to him though.

Start Em Buf
L. Evans, WR

Sit Em Buf
W. McGahee, RB
JP Losman, QB
R. Parrish, WR
R. Royal, TE
A. Thomas, RB

Buffalo has been an enigma as well this year. They have been as hard of a team to read as there is in the league, (save Carolina). Lee Evans is the only play I can claim this week because he is the focal point of the Bills offense. McGahee gets a lot of carries, but he could be shut down against a stiffling Miami defense. Jason Taylor has been an absolute beast as of late, and I don't see that changing any time soon. I don't expect fantastic numbers out of Evans, but there is a better chance than most that he could hit the home run, on any pass play, even if the weather is an issue.

NYJ @ Min
Start Em NYJ
C. Pennington, QB
L. Coles, WR
J. Cotcherty, WR
C. Baker, TE

Sit Em NYJ
All RBs



Start Em Min
C. Taylor, RB - Questionable, Ribs

Sit Em Min
M. Moore, RB
B. Johnson, QB
M. Robinson, WR -OUT Deactivated, Coaches Decision
T. Taylor, WR
J. Wiggins, TE
T. Williamson, WR

Pit @ Car
Start Em Pit
H. Ward, WR - Probable, Knee Surgery
N. Washington, WR
H. Miller, TE

Sit Em Pit
W. Parker, RB
B. Roethlesberger, QB
S. Holmes, WR

Start Em Car
S. Smith, WR
K. Johnson, WR
D. Foster, RB

Sit Em Car
C. Weinke, QB
J. Delhomme, QB - Doubtful - hand
D. Williams, RB
K. Magnum, TE

TB @ Chi
Start Em TB
None

Sit Em TB
C. Williams, RB
M. Alstott, RB
J. Galloway, WR
B. Gradkowski, QB
etc.

Start Em Chi
C. Benson, RB
B. Berrian, WR
M. Muhammad, WR

Sit Em Chi
T. Jones, RB - Questionable- hand
R. Grossman, QB
D. Clark, TE

Was @ NO
Start Em Was
S. Moss, WR
L. Betts, RB
C. Cooley, TE

Sit Em Was
J. Campbell, QB
A. Randel El, WR

Start Em NO
D. Brees, QB
R. Bush, RB
M. Colston, WR
D. Henderson, WR

Sit Em NO
M. Karney, RB
J. Horn, WR - OUT - Hammy
D. McAlister, RB

Den @ Ari
Start Em Den
T. Bell, RB
J. Walker, WR
T. Sheffler, TE

Sit Em Den
J. Cutler, QB
M. Bell, RB
R. Smith, WR

Start Em Ari
L. Fitzgerald, WR

Sit Em Ari
A. Boldin, WR
M. Leinart, QB
E. James, RB
M. Shipp, RB
L. Pope, TE
Other TE Guy

Phi @ NYG
Start Em Phi
J. Garcia, QB
B. Westbrook, RB
D. Stallworth, WR
LJ Smith, TE

Sit Em Phi
R. Brown, WR


Start Em NYG
E. Manning, QB
P. Burress, WR
J. Shockey, TE
T. Barber, RB

Sit Em NYG
T. Carter, WR
D. Tyree, WR
S. Moss, WR
B. Jacobs, RB


StL @ Oak
Start Em StL
S. Jackson, RB
M. Brunell, QB
T. Holt, WR

Sit Em StL
I. Bruce, WR
S. Davis, RB
K. Curtis, WR

Start Em Oak
(Here's a first... I'm advocating RAIDERS!!!)
J. Fargas, RB

Sit Em Oak
R. Curry, WR
R. Moss, WR
A. Brooks, QB
etc.

Yeah, Oakland is terrible, but St. Louis is a bit of a rushing sieve on defense, so Fargas can be a sneaky start. Assuming Oakland is smart enough to rush enough to make him worthy of starting. Just a side note, what was your favorite Randy Moss in Silver and Black moment? It looks as if his run in Oaktown is done.

KC @ SD
Start Em KC
L. Johnson, RBeast
T. Gonzalez, TE

Sit Em KC
T. Green, QB
E. Kennison, WR
S. Parker, WR

Start Em SD
L. Tomlinson, Record Breaking RBeast
A. Gates, TE
P. Rivers, QB

Sit Em SD
E. Parker, WR
K. McCardell, WR

Monday Night:
Cin @ Ind
Start Em Cin
C. Palmer, QB
C. Johnson, WR
R. Johnson, RB
TJ Houshmandzadeh, WR

Sit Em Cin
C. Henry, WR
TEs

Start Em Ind
P. Manning, QB
M. Harrison, WR
R. Wayne, WR

Sit Em Ind
J. Addai, RB
D. Rhodes, RB
D. Clark, TE
B. Utecht, TE

Start 'Em Sit 'Em Thurday Night, Week 15

San Fran @ Seattle

Start Em San Fran
Frank Gore, RB
Vernon Davis, TE

Sit Em San Fran
Alex Smith, QB
Antonio Bryant, WR
Arnaz Battle, WR
Eric Johnson, TE

Frank Gore is the only real meaningful start on the 49ers tonight. There are weather reports that it is very windy in Seattle tonight, which should severely limit the passing game. Vernon Davis still makes a decent start in TE mandatory leagues, as he is a safety valve for Alex Smith, and he's a very athletic player that can make things happen after a short catch. The rest of the 49ers offense is very boring and less interesting than the new Taylor Hicks album.

Start Em Seattle
Shaun Alexander, RB
Deion Branch, WR

Sit Em Seattle
Matt Hassleback, QB
Darrell Jackson, WR - OUT Toe
Jerramy Stevens, TE
Nate Burleson, WR

Shaun Alexander is a must start in a bad weather game. He DESTROYED a bad Green Bay defense in a bad weather game. He should do the same against a bad 49ers defense. If Edge James can do damage against the 49ers, Shaun Alexander should light them up like a Christmas Tree in the Seattle Airport... oh wait... maybe like a Christmas Tree in Central Park would be a better simile. With the weather issue in Seattle tonight, it takes Hassleback and his passing game out of the options to play this weekend. Deion Branch remains in the starting list because Jackson is hurt, and Branch is athletic enough to take the short junk and break into something long, or just catch a lot of the underneath things. Jerramy Stevens is about as worthless as a big name Tight End as you can find in the NFL. If he didn't have so much potential on a pass happy offense, he wouldn't warrant being on a roster. The other receivers normally would be in the start category this week, but with the 30 mph winds... I won't put much faith in their production this week.

Good luck this week as your fantasy playoffs should be kicking off this weekend!

Sunday Observations - Week 14

In My Fason!
When monitoring the Vikings offensive woes early in the week, most of the focus was on the quarterback situation. Will it be Johnson or Jackson. We all waited with baited breath at this decision, so we could bench/release both. The other issue out of Winter Park this week was whether or not Chester Taylor would play. We ALL assumed that if the Chetster was unable to go, his replacement would be Ciatrick Fason, who ripped up and gashed the vaunted Bears defense, when Taylor got injured last week. WOW! Did Brad Childress make his best play to leap into level of coaches that fantasy players love to hate. This group of course includes, Mike Shannahan, and the recently inducted Gary Kubiak. The Dark Sith Lord of Fantasy Football, and his evil apprentice. Brad Johnson ended up starting, and played good enough to not warrant fantasy consideration next week. The real hum-dinger, was when Artrose Pinner came in and lit up the fantasy world. He had 125 yards and THREE touchdowns. All accross the country I was hearing people who started Fason scream "ARTROSE WHO!!??!!" every time Pinner marched across the goal line against his former squad. I know I was one of those players that was celebrating the fact that Taylor was down, because I had grabbed Fason early in the week and was licking my chops at the prospects of him ripping up the lions. I even benched Tiki Barber in one league for Fason. So with that, IN MY FASON!

The Colts are EXPOSED! Children, avert your eyes.
Of all the things I didn't expect to see this weekend, the Jacksonville rushing attack against the Colts was definitely one of them. I knew that Taylor and Jones-Drew would be decent plays against a weak Colts rushing defense, but 297 yards between those two was completely unexpected. It was a great game plan by Jacksonville. They basically eliminated the passing game. Jacksonville almost seemed to go out of their way to prove that the Colts have less coverage up the middle than Brittany Spears when she goes out clubbing. After the game the Jaguars players gave a lot of the credit to Mike Tice, their embattled assistant head-coach, who got in trouble for scalping Super-Bowl Tickets. If their running game can play like this every week until the end of the season, ole Ticey might need to keep those Super Bowl tickets for his family this year.

Tony Who?
"In the last four games, Tony Romo has six touchdown passes and five interceptions. All but one of those touchdowns (and none of the picks) came on Thanksgiving. Since his next game is on NFL Network, which nobody will see, his mythical status will likely continue even if he lays an egg for the fourth time in five weeks."

One of the more disgusting developments this year was the love-fest heaped upon one Tony Romo. I'm proud to say I was one of the few that never bought into the long term success of this flash in the pan Dallas QB. First off, if he had any real talent, he wouldn't have to be a 4th year rookie. Secondly, It's the way the NFL works when it comes to new quarterbacks in the league. There have been at least 5 examples of 'new' quarterbacks that have started hotter than a pistol, and then after 5 games have flamed out and have looked very ordinary, if not awful. This list includes phenoms like Rex Grossman, Damon Huard, Bruce Gradkowski, Matt Leinart, and to a lesser extent Seneca Wallace. All these QBs had about 4-5 games where they looked GREAT, and then once teams got some film on them to figure the QBs out they look ordinary. The same thing is happening to Romo. He came in against the Giants at halftime, and looked abysmal. Then he gets another week of work with the first team, plays a terrible team, and then looks like the next big thing. Repeat for 3 weeks, and suddenly he's a Top5 Fantasy QB into next year. Now after Thanksgiving he plays the Giants again, gets beat up, plays awful. Makes one throw at the end of the game to Witten to save the game, and everyone forgets the two ints. Now he laid an egg against the Saints, and people still think he's good. I don't get it. We'll see how good people think he is when Jeff Garcia leads the Eagles to the NFC East division title.

Sweet Brees Blowin'
Five TDs last week against the supposedly good Dallas Defense? Brees has thrown for 300+ yards for more than any other QB in the league this year. He's making Peyton Manning look like Eli. Drew wasn't good enough to stay in San Diego. Now he's in New Orleans, as the only real competition to his former running back for the league MVP. When you factor in the complete turn around that team has done this year, I'm more inclined to give the MVP to Brees than LT. Brees has been a great fantasy QB all year, and looks to be a great fantasy QB for years to come with all those great young receivers he has in Colston, Henderson, and even Terrance Copper. Reggie Bush will be a star for Brees in the future (what was Houston THINKING!). All that's left for New Orleans to do is rebuild their line, and they will be tough for the next few years.

I'm already on record as saying this years Super Bowl will be New Orleans v. San Diego. Get your tickets now. Ticey? Got some for sale?

Write that Record in Pencil
This last weekend Ladanian Tomlinson broke the venerable one year old 'Touchdowns in a Season' record, set by Shaun Alexander. Alexander broke the record set one or two years before by Priest Holmes.

How long until LT's record is broken, and by who? Well considering the season isn't over yet, and there are three games left for him to add to his total, that may skew the chances of breaking the record. If LT goes even nuttier and bumps his total to 40TDs that could limit the chances of breaking the record three years in a row. It will also virtually guarantee that every fantasy team with Tomlinson on it will win its Championship. Forget TJ Houshmandzadeh, LT is the Championship.

My early guess at 2007, and who has the best shot at breaking the TD record? This all depends on if Tiki Barber follows through with his threat on retirement, but my early money is on Brandon Jacobs. He will have the size and power to get all the goal line carries. He will also have the speed and ability to bust some long runs as well. We can only hope that Tom Coughlin gets fired, and the Giants get a coach that focuses on the run as well.

Week 14 Sunday/Monday Start & Sit

Sunday's Games:
Atl @ TB
Start Em Atl
M. Vick, QB
W. Dunn, WR
A. Crumpler, TE

Sit Em Atl
J. Norwood, RB
All ATL WRs

Mike Vick, the embattled Atlanta Quarterback, is still an efficent fantasy quarterback. He can do things that other fantasy quarterbacks can't do. He still doesn't throw touchdowns, but he can run for more yards than any other QB in the league. He scores fantasy points. That's all players care about. Who cares that he can't win games. The other thing he has going for him, is the TB offense is fairly brutal, so that should keep Vick and company on the field fairly often. Dunn makes a sneaky play, as the Tampa defense can be beaten down and run against. Alge Crumpler is a must start in TE mandatory leagues. Norwood could be a very sneaky start if you need a pinch hitter. He gets a few carries a game, and tends to make each one count. He likes to rip long bombs off for TDs. Other than the home run though, he is more likely to strike out, rather than be a safe start. The Atlanta WRs are worthless. Most of Vick's bad passing numbers come from the set of WRs that can't catch a simple pass. Don't count on these guys this week.

Start Em TB
J. Galloway, WR

Sit Em TB
B. Gradkowski, QB
C. Williams, RB
M. Clayton, WR - IR Out for year
I. Hilliard, WR
A. Smith, TE

Joey Galloway is the only guy you can take a shot on this week. He should catch a few lame ducks from Gradkowski to put up a few points for owners against a soft Atlanta secondary. Fantasy owners are always wanting to use their first round pick of Carnell Williams. He could put up good numbers today, however, with the weak passing game in Tampa, I simply don't trust him. Atlanta can load up the front and stuff Williams. Gradkowski isn't very good, and shouldn't be on a roster. Clayton was placed on injured reserve this week, and can be dropped now, even on keeper leagues. He hasn't shown that he is worthy of roster spot going into next year. The other players aren't worthy of playing this week.

Bal @ KC
Start Em Bal
S. McNair, QB
D. Mason, WR
T. Heap, TE
J. Lewis, RB

Sit Em Bal
M. Clayton, WR
M. Anderson, RB

Last week the lowly Cleveland Browns proved that you can pass on the KC Chiefs. I would expect that to be part of the Ravens' game plan this week. Look for McNair, and his favorite toys of Todd Heap, and Derrick Mason to post good numbers this week. Jamal Lewis will get his as they mix in the run. Mark Clayton has been getting mixed in as of late, however he is still too streaky to trust in this critical week of the fantasy season.

Start Em KC
L. Johnson, RB
T. Gonzalez, TE -Prob, Shoulder
T. Green, QB

Sit Em KC
M. Bennett, RB
E. Kennison, WR
S. Parker, WR

Larry Johnson is a legitamate fantasy beast. I have gone on record saying I would start him against the '85 Bears. So of course I would start him against the Ravens at home this week. Last week Johnson may have let a few people down, without scoring a touchdown. Green went off throwing four touchdowns, and none of them to LJ. Speaking of Green's game last week, is that a trend or a mirage? I believe that is an absolute flukey mirage. He hasn't had a game like that since 2004. The KC offense is run first, run second, and run third. Green threw 4 TDs, and incase you didn't notice, they lost. Green makes a good play this week, against a Ravens Defense that can be thrown against, but don't expect those numbers again. Gonzo is always a great play, injured shoulder or not. Bennett has been sneaking in the game more often, stealing a series here, a carry there from Johnson, but not enough yet, to warrant fantasy consideration. Kennison and Parker don't make good plays yet against the Ravens because Gonzo is getting healthy. Also, I just don't flat trust Kennison. If you must play a KC WR, I've been on the Parker bandwagon for 2 weeks, so why don't we make it 3. He is always a very sneaky play.

Ind @ Jax
Start Em Ind
P. Manning, QB
M. Harrison, WR
R. Wayne, WR

Sit Em Ind
J. Addai, RB
D. Rhodes, RB
B. Utecht, TE
D. Clark, TE

This could be a very tough game for Indy. Jacksonville plays very good defense at home. I don't suggest playing your Indy running backs this week, as the Jax, front line is one of the best in football, especially at home. The passing game is the way to go. Manning is a must start every week. Harrison went off last week, as I could have predicted after running him down in an article last week (Marvin, I love you!). Reggie Wayne is in line for the big game this week, as Peyton tends to try and flip flop the WRs with the 'big game' stats. Although, with that stinky 1 catch for 9 yards performance 2 weeks ago, Marv may get 2 in a row. The only gaurantee is you can't bench either of them, because unless you can read tea leaves, you will just never know. You can't start the TEs in this game, because they are either hurt, or they split too much of each other's time, and they are more unreliable than the 'Harrison/Wayne' connection.

Start Em Jax
F. Taylor, RB
M. Jones-Drew, RB

Sit Em Jax
D. Garrad, QB
E. Wilford, WR
M. Jones, WR
R. Williams, WR
G. Wrightster, TE
M. Lewis, TE

If Jacksonville is to win this game, they are going to have to do it on the ground. Indianapolis is one of the worst running defenses in the league. That makes both running backs, Fraud Taylor, and Maurice Jones-Drew, great plays this week. Indy has a great pass defense, with a blitzkrieg pass rush and great corners. Garrad isn't great either, so that combination pretty much negates the entire Jacksonville passing game. The only way you start any of these guys is if you have a gun to your head. If then, you start Wilford. He is Garrad's favorite 'go near' guy.

Min @ Det
Start Em Min
C. Fason, RB
M. Moore, RB

Sit Em Min
B. Johnson, QB
M. Johnson, WR
T. Taylor, WR
T. Williamson, WR
J. Wiggins, TE
C. Taylor, RB - OUT, Ribs

If you were unfortunate enough to suffer through watching the Bears/Vikings game last week, you learned exactly WHY you don't start the Vikings passing game. IT STINKS!!! Even against the Lions this week, you can't start any facet of the Vikings passing attack. Starting with the Quarterback. First off, we don't know who it is. Brad Johnson is rumored to start, however, all of Viking Nation is clamoring for the rookie, Tarvaris Jackson to start. The Receivers are all mediocre at best (although, I'll take them over Atlanta's crew). Jermaine Wiggins has all but vanished. On to the fun part of the Vikings offense. This week, even the running game is in flux. Chester Taylor is doubtful with a rib injury. As I write this, and listen to the Vikings pregame show, Taylor is trying to work out, and start. Should he be unable to go, Ciatrick Fason would get the start, and make an excellent play this week. Mewelde Moore, would also an expanded roll, and could make a play if you are tight at RB. Even if Taylor starts, Fason might make a good play, because it could be only one good shot until Taylor is knocked out of the game.

Start Em Det
R. Williams, WR
M. Furrey, WR

Sit Em Det
J. Kitna, QB
K. Jones, RB
M. Williams, WR

The Detroit Lions... the enigma. This set of picks is based purely on the strength and the pride of the Vikings Defense. The Vikings have the #1 rushing defense in the league and it's not even close. The last time these two met Kevin Jones got 8 yards. Bench him. Bench him and bury him. The flip side to that is that Vikings defense isn't so stout against the pass. This makes Roy Williams and Mike Furrey good plays this week. Matt Leinart made passes to his WRs to carve up this defense, so Kitna and his WRs could be able to. Kitna makes an interesting thought this week. If you are pressed at QB you can start him. He's the only QB in the league this year to throw for 200 yards in each game this year. He'll probably get a TD in the game. The question is, how many picks will he throw? How much of the pass defense turn around last week was weather/Grossman related for the Vikings? If you have a better option at QB, start him. If you are stuck, go ahead and start Kitna with shaky confidence.

NE @ Mia
Start Em NE
T. Brady, QB
R. Caldwell, WR
B. Watson, TE
C. Dillion, RB

Sit Em NE
L. Maroney, RB - Out, Back-Ribs
D. Gabriel, WR
D. Graham, TE
T. Brown, WR

Tom Brady and the New England Patriots should tear up the Dolphins on the road today. Brady makes an excellent play, however, much of his supporting cast does not. Ben Watson and Reche Caldwell are the best plays today, as far as pass catchers go. They are, by far, Brady's favorite receivers. Laurence Maroney is out for the game today. He didn't even make the trip to Miami. Corey Dillion expects to see a slight uptick in his carries, and all the goal line carries. He makes a good play against Miami. The rest of the team doesn't carry any consideration in fantasy leagues.

Start Em Mia
None.

Sit Em Mia
J. Harrington, QB
M. Booker, WR
C. Chambers, WR
S. Morris, RB
W. Welker, WR
R. McMichael, TE

This week I would bench all of my Dolphins. The New England Defense is on a roll as of late, and they could completly shut down the Dolphins this week. There are always questions about the playcalling in Miami, and this has gone into the analysis. If you are stuck for a WR, Marty Booker has been the hottest receiver as of late, and makes the safest play. Last week the Lions scared the Patriots, but Joey Heatherton is no Jon Kitna. The Patriots won't be embarrassed twice. Not against a division opponant, and definately not against a team like Miami. Look for the Patriots to win this one running away.

NYG @ Car
Start Em NYG
J. Shockey, TE
P. Burress, WR
T. Barber, RB

Sit Em NYG
E. Manning, QB
B. Jacobs, RB
T. Carter, WR

The Giants are falling apart at the seams. Everyone is hating on everyone else. The players hate the coach. The quarterback hates the receivers, the Tight End hates everyone. That said, Shockey still makes a decent play, as they still want to win. Burress makes a decent play, as he has personal pride. Tiki Barber makes a play because he gets a decent amount of carries. Other than that I don't trust the Giants about as far as I can throw them. Little Manning isn't consistant enough on the road to warrant consideration. Brandon Jacobs is still too hit and miss, and against the Panther's defense, is more likely to miss. Tim Carter, or the other WR doesn't get enough attention from an inaccurate QB to deserve a fantasy roster spot.

Start Em Car
S. Smith, WR
D. Williams, RB

Sit Em Car
J. Delhomme, QB -Out Thumb
C. Weinke, QB - Questionable, Talent
D. Foster, RB - Probable, Elbow
K. Johnson, WR - Questionable, Catching passes from Weinke
K. Magnum, TE

The craziest team to pick this year has been Carolina. Steve Smith is the only safe start, because he has freaky talent. DeAngelo Williams makes a good start because he has the talent to carve up the Giants defense, and to catch some outlet passes from Weinke as he panics. That said, you bench everyone else for the reasons listed above. Magnum doesn't get enough looks to start even in TE manditory leagues. Weinke hasn't started a game since 2001, and against a defense that made the next chosen one, Tony Romo, look mediocre to bad last week, really doesn't have much of a chance. This is going to be an ugly game. Ugly like the Carolina/St. Louis game a few weeks back.

Oak @ Cin
Start Em Oak
(Stop me if you've heard this one)
NONE!!

Sit Em Oak
All

Ick. oops... I think i threw up a little...

Start Em Cin
R. Johnson, RB
C. Johnson, WR
C. Henry, WR

Sit Em Cin
C. Palmer, QB
TJ Houshmandzadeh, WR -Probable Back

The safest start for Cincy this week is Rudi Johnson. Oakland's defense is beatable on the ground. C. Johnson is about the safest WR in this game. Oakland's pass defense is really strong. Which is why I'm not high on Carson Palmer this week. TJ Whosyourmama is dinged up this week, which makes him a tough start. Chris Henry was NOT the Bengal arrested this week, which is a miracle in and of itself, and with the injury to TJ he makes the safer play of the two, but against the Oakland defense, I'd leave them both on the bench this week.

Phi @ Wash
Start Em Phi
B. Westbrook, RB
J. Garcia, QB
D. Stallworth, WR
LJ Smith, TE

Sit Em Phi
R. Brown, WR
H. Baskett, WR

The Philly offense begins with 'The Rabbit' Brian Westbrook. Look for him to be a focal point of the offense. Jeff Garcia has emerged as a legitimate backup to Donovan McNabb. It was questionable if he would be able to pull it off. Last week, against the Panthers he proved that he would be able to post good fantasy numbers, with 300+ yards, and 3 TDs. He should be able to post good numbers against a soft, but surging Washington defense in a game that Philly absolutely needs if they wish to conitnue their playoff chances. Donte Stallworth makes a good play as he is emerging as a favorite target of Garcia. LJ Smith didn't catch a pass last week vs. the Panthers, however he still makes a good play in TE manditory leagues. Reggie Brown and Hank Baskett aren't worthy of fantasy consideration this week. They still need one more game to prove that they are catching passes from Garcia.

Start Em Was
L. Betts, RB
C. Cooley, TE
S. Moss, WR

Sit Em Was
J. Campbell, QB
A. Randel El, WR
B. Lloyd, WR

The Redskins have enjoyed some offensive success since their change to quarterback Jason Campbell. Ladell Betts has filled in admirably since Clinton Portis was placed on IR. He also signed a 5 year contract extension this week, so he should be eager to prove that he was worthy of the money. Santana Moss is of that 'Steve Smith' mold. Small, quick, and talented. He can make something out of nothing. Chris Cooley is a great TE play this week, as he has emerged as one of Campbell's favorite safety valve receivers. He is also big and burly enough to blow through a tackle or two. Campbell himself doesn't warrant consideration in a run first offense. He has yet to put up the huge numbers that fantasy owners covet when looking for in a starting QB. The backup WRs aren't worthy of roster spots in most leagues.

Ten@ Hou
Start Em Ten
T. Henry, RB
V. Young, QB
B. Scaife, TE
D. Bennett, WR

Sit Em Ten
C. Brown, RB
L. White, RB
B. Wade, WR
B. Jones, WR

Tennesee vs. Houston. About as random as you can get. If you ever wanted to safely start Vince Young, now is the time. Travis Henry SHOULD be safe, but he has a nice track record of disappearing against soft defenses. Scaife makes a good play in TE manditory leagues, and is healthy this week. Bennett is Young's favorite WR, and should get a TD and a few yards. The rest of the bits probably aren't on your roster, and therefore don't warrant consideration.

Start Em Hou
A. Johnson, WR
O. Daniels, TE

Sit Em Hou
D. Carr, QB
W. Lundy, RB
R. Dayne, RB
S. Gado, RB
E. Moulds, WR

Andre Johnson is (shudders) a must start this week against a soft Tennesee defense. However, this is the LAST week I give him that consideration (Eikey's Used Car Lot). Owen Daniels also fits that consideration in TE manditory leagues. You can't start the running backs this week if only because the coach, Gary Kubiak has been shaken out of the Sith Lord's coaching tree. The 3 RBs in Houston will be continually shaken up and mixed in, and none of them will get a bulk of the carries to give fantasy owners a decent chance to win. Sit them all, unless you have to start Lundy. He's probably the #1 in Houston. Carr is Terrible. Don't start him. Mould's is a nice decoy for Johnson.

GB @ SF
Start Em GB
B. Favre, QB
D. Driver, WR
G. Jennings, WR
A. Green, RB

Sit Em GB
N. Herron, RB
D. Martin, TE

This game should be a shoot out. Look for Favre to light up the 49er defense. Ahman Green should get his on the ground. Driver and Jennings make decent plays.

Start Em SF
F. Gore, RB
A. Bryant, WR

Sit Em SF
Everyone Else

Frank Gore is the only true viable option on this team. Green Bay does have a decent front 7, but that said, Gore is the focal point of the offense. Much like the Minnesota Vikings. The way to beat the Packers is in the air, but I don't think Smith and his receivers are consistant enough to warrant any consideration in this game. If you are in dire need for a WR play, Antonio Bryant makes a viable opiton against a soft Packer pass defense. Vernon Davis at TE hasn't done enough to warrant a starting spot yet.

Sea @ Ari
Start Em Sea
S. Alexander, RB
D. Jackson, WR
D. Branch, WR
M. Hasselback, QB

Start your Seahawks. Arizona is brutal. They play better at home, but that won't be enough to stop the juggernaut that can be a healthy Seatle offense. I wouldn't go too deep in the WRs though. Engram Burleson and Hackett probably aren't on rosters, and shouldn't be picked up for this game. Jerramy Stevens is too streaky to be relied on, but if you need him, go for it.


Start Em Ari
A. Boldin, WR
L. Fitzgerald, WR
M. Leinart, QB

Sit Em Ari
E. James, RB
M. Shipp, RB
L. Pope, TE

The big three in Arizona are good plays. Seattle can be thrown on. The Edge had his fantasy value killed last week when Marcell Shipp sniped three TDs from him on the goal line last week. don't start the running backs against the Seahawks this week.

Buf @ NYJ
Start Em Buf
W. McGahee, RB
L. Evans, WR
JP Losman, QB

Sit Em Buf
R. Parrish, WR
A. Thomas, RB

Willis McGahee is the focus of the Bills offense. JP Losman and Lee Evans are about as Streaky as you can get in fantasy football. I'm going way out on a limb here, and guessing that this is a game where they go off, against a softer Jets defense. They have proven they can do it in the past, I'm thinking it is about time they do it again.

Start Em NYJ
C. Pennington, QB
L. Coles, WR
J. Cotcherty, WR
C. Baker, TE
C. Houston, RB
L. Washington, RB

Sit Em NYJ
K. Barlow, RB

Start all your passing game Jets this week. They are on fire, and are going up against a softer Bills defense, at home. This game should be a barn burner, so get out your marshmallows. The running game is a mystery, almost as bad as the Denver and Houston games. Cedric Houston is the Starter. Leon Washington should be the backup, and Kevan Barlow should be the odd man out. However I gaurantee you that that will change based on your need to win your game. Either if you have them on your team, or if you are playing against them. I would do my best to avoid the situation altogether.

Den@ SD
Start Em Den
J. Walker, WR

Sit Em Den
J. Cutler, QB
T. Bell, RB
M. Bell, RB
R. Smith, WR

Start Em SD
L. Tomlinson, RB
A. Gates, TE

Sit Em SD
P. Rivers, QB
K. McCardell, WR
E. Parker, WR
M. Turner, RB

NO @ Dal
Start Em NO
D. Brees, QB
D. Henderson, WR
R. Bush, RB*

Sit Em NO
D. McAlister, RB
M. Colston, WR - Questionable, 'Non high ankle' High Ankle Sprain.
J. Horn, WR - OUT, Hammy-Groin

Start Em Dal
T. Romo, QB
T. Owens, WR
T. Glenn, WR
J. Witten, TE
M. Barber, RB

Sit Em Dal
J. Jones, RB
P. Crayton, WR

Mondays Game:
Chi @ Stl
Start Em Chi
T. Jones, RB
C. Benson, RB

Sit Em Chi
R. Grossman, QB(?)
B. Berrian, WR
M. Muhammad, WR
D. White, TE

Start Em StL
S. Jackson, RB
T. Holt, WR

Sit Em StL
M. Bulger, QB
I. Bruce, WR
K. Curtis, WR
Random TE Guy, TE