Help. Marc Bulger is my quarterback.

Thursday morning, my alarm goes off and I immediately grab my Blackberry to check my fantasy roster. I had submitted three claims for quarterbacks to replace Ben Roethlisberger, who’s on a bye week, and it was time to see which one materialized. After a few clicks and scrolls, I impatiently watch the hourglass do somersaults. And there he is: Marc Bulger - QB, STL.

I keep scrolling and I see Matthew Stafford also made the cut. I wasn’t sure who to pick so I tried for both, and got them both. Stafford is a game-time decision for the Lions and likely one for me too. Not sure which offense – Rams or Lions – is better….or rather, which defense is worse. Whomever I decide, I’m pitting all my team’s hopes and dreams on the Rams or Lions.

I never thought it would come to this.

It could be worse. I could be starting Vince Young on my fantasy team. Or even worse, starting him on my reality team. If you’re considering VY, only do it if you’re as desperate as the Titans.

If the Rams-Lions game weren’t at the same time as the Texans game this Sunday, I would probably host a viewing party to watch on Sunday Ticket. This could be a very entertaining game, not to mention lucrative for fantasy owners. I’m trying not to get carried away, but they both allow a ton of offense. I’m guessing Calvin Johnson is working overtime in rehab to get ready for this game. Just too yummy to pass up.

Besides QB temps Bulger and Stafford, here are a few other players worth considering:

Shonn Greene – We knew he’d be good, but he’s in a system with three quality backs. Just not enough touches to go around. Greene finally got his opportunity when Leon Washington went down with a broken leg. In Sunday’s contest, he ran for 144 yards, two touchdowns, averaging 7.6 YPC. I think he’s a viable No. 2 RB this week as the Jets game plan is run, run, run. Please note, I don’t expect the same performance as last week – that was the Raiders, after all. But he could muster 8-10 points.

Donald Lee – Green Bay’s tight end is a sleeper pick with Jermichael Finely out. He doesn’t have the same speed, but will get some looks, and could prove valuable in the red zone if the Packers stop the run.

Justin Forsett – I think I recommended him week 2 and he did nothing. Same for week 3, 4, 5, etc. Julius Jones has been sub par lately, so Forsett is likely to get more carries. Plus, he’s a good receiver.

Michael Crabtree and James Jones are also decent pickups – good for 5-6 points.


Looking ahead

Alex Smith – There’s risk in playing Smith this week as the 49ers go head to head with the Colts. But next week, San Francisco takes on the weak Tennessee Titans. Smith looked brilliant against the Texans last Sunday throwing three TDs to Vernon Davis, all in the second half. He may not be available next week, so take him now.

Jamaal Charles – There are some athletes who should not have a Twitter account. Larry Johnson is one of them. But why did it take a mis-tweet to encourage Kansas City coach Todd Haley to bench Johnson? Do the math, Todd. 2.7 YPC vs. 6.4 YPC. If Charles is still available, get him.


Happy Halloween

For my weekly visit to Sport Radio 610 this week, I dressed as Turf Girl, warrior of turf toe health. Yes, it’s the same outfit as last year, but once you discover you have superpowers, you have to go with it. Here’s the morning crew: Marc Vandermeer, dressed as Howard Stern (Vander-Stern), and John Lopez dressed as TNT reporter Craig Sager. Below, I'm with Sports Radio 610 sales manager Gina Messick Farquharson.

Some have asked why Astro turf. For starters, natural grass wasn't practical. Truth is, I have always had a fascination with artificial turf. I have an Astro turf purse, koozie and a necklace. In college, I even wrote a thesis on it. So Turf Girl just seemed like a natural (or rather synthetic) super hero for me.


Texans Taste of the NFL

The Houston Texans hosted the Texans Taste of the NFL on Monday at Reliant Stadium. Over 40 restaurants sampled their best dishes, while raising funds for heart and diabetes research at The Methodist Hospital, as well as the Houston Food Bank. I visited with tight end James Casey. He really is as nice as everyone says he is. In this photo, I'm showing him my fantasy team. Clearly, he’s impressed with my team, although questioning why Shonn Greene was on my bench last week. I am too, James.


Have a question for Erin? E-mail her at erskelley@yahoo.com. Also, tune in to Erin's fantasy advice on Sports Radio 610 every Friday morning, or during the Texans pre-game show every Sunday at 9:30.

Sunday 2-minute drill

First, my apologies for overlooking the powerhouse Oakland Raiders. Not sure what I was thinking when I tagged Brent Celek as a must-start. Like the Eagles, we must move on to this week’s contest. Here’s the latest injury report:

Probable – Anquan Boldin, Steve Breaston, Marin Barber, Felix Jones, Adrian Peterson, Eli Manning, Mario Manningham, Chad Ochocinco, Clinton Portis, Rashard Mendenhall, Michael Turner, Aaron Rodgers, Greg Jennings, Braylon Edwards, Jeremy Shockey, Donnie Avery

Questionable – Percy Harvin, Jonathan Stewart, Joshua Cribbs

Out – Jerricho Cotchery, Sammy Morris, Darren McFadden, Fred Taylor, Julian Edelman, Anthony Gonzalez


Last-minute pickups

Laurence Maroney – With Sammy Morris injured, Maroney becomes the lead back. He’s an average running back, but great for a fill-in role. Don’t get too attached.

Justin Fargas – Was it a fluke? Probably. But that fluke could earn him a bigger share of the carries. And if you’re short a running back, he’ll at least get you some yards. Perhaps 7-10 points.

Chad Henne – I’ll admit the matchup doesn’t look good at first glance, facing New Orleans. But Henne is smart and conservative. You don’t need him to do a lot. Two touchdowns would be just fine from your reserve. And consider this – he’s likely to be playing from behind.

Heath Miller – The Vikings allow the most PPG to opposing tight ends, so if Miller’s on your team, he should be in the lineup.

Sean Ryan – Tight ends continue to find success against San Diego. The Chiefs TE is not a bad pickup.

Mewelde Moore –Another sleeper. If the Vikings do well against the rush, they could put Moore in. He's really good on the short passes.

Austin Collie – The rookie wide receiver has surpassed Pierre Garcon as the WR2, despite Garcon's early production. Anthony Gonzalez did not practice all week and likely not to return for a few weeks. Still available in 60-70 percent of leagues.

Miles Austin- His monster performance in week 5 (250 yards and 2 TDs) plus Roy Williams's continued struggles make him a nice pickup. Don't expect 250 yards again, but you'll settle for 100, right?

Andre Caldwell – For deep leagues or depleted teams, take a look at Caldwell. I’m not expecting big things from him, but he could get you 5-6 points, or even more if the Bears double team Chad Ochocinco


Other notes

Michael Crabtree – Newspaper reports indicate there’s a “strong possibility” the rookie holdout will start today against the Texans. Some of you have e-mailed with one burning question – sit or start ‘em? As with every lineup decision, it depends on the rest of your squad. If you have consistent performers at WR, who are in fact playing today, I wouldn’t chance it. Stick with them. If you’re considering starting any Rams or Raiders at WR, I would choose Crabtree.

Felix Jones – It’s hard to know how much to expect. Coach Wade Phillips says he’s at full speed and ready for today’s game. But how much playing time? Who knows. Start him with caution.

Owen Daniels – San Francisco has yet to give up a TD to a tight end. It’s a little misleading as their pass defense has been so bad that quarterbacks go deep (why look for a 7-yard pass, when you can throw it 20?). Does that mean you bench Daniels? Not many of us carry back-up tight ends, and it’s not likely there are better picks on your waiver wire.

Andre Johnson vs. Nate Clements – Don’t worry fantasy owners. Look what Roddy White did vs. San Francisco: 210 yards and 2 TDs.

Bears air attack – Cincinnati’s DT Antwan Odom is out for the season, which should give Jay Cutler time to find his targets.

Cowboys air attack - Good news for those who own Tony Romo or any Cowboys receivers. Atlanta CB Brian Williams is out.

Ochocinco has announced a new network – OCNN, the Ochocinco News Network to communicate breaking news on Twitter. He tweeted Saturday, “Who needs CNN when you have OCNN, or The Ochocinco News Network?” Not sure how different it is than now. Maybe less posts about McDonalds and more about the NFL. Whatever this is, I like it.

Have a question for Erin? E-mail her at erskelley@yahoo.com. Also, tune in to Erin's fantasy advice on the Texans pre-game show on Sports Radio 610 every Sunday at 9:30.

Sunday 2-minute drill

A few news and notes as you finalize your lineups:

Probable - Carson Palmer, Pierre Thomas, Ahmad Bradshaw, Clinton Portis, Eli Manning, Willie Parker, Correll Buckhalter, Jamal Lewis, Nate Burleson

Questionable - Calvin Johnson, Percy Harvin, Jerricho Cotchery

Ailing - Seahawks offensive line. Not good for Hasselbeck owners.

Last-minute pickups

Mike Bell – With Pierre Thomas nursing a hamstring injury, take a look at Bell for your third RB slot. While Thomas is expected to start, Bell should get more carries. He looked really good early in the season before suffering a sprained MCL. Widely available in most leagues.

Mike Wallace – Still available in 86 percent of Yahoo leagues, Pittsburgh should have a monstrous offensive day vs. Cleveland. Wallace is seeing more looks from Roethlisberger, who is second in the league in passing yards, with only Peyton Manning ahead of him.

Other notes

Jamaal Charles – I’m tired of recommending him, only to muster 2 points. But I don’t get it. Why is Larry Johnson still starting? He’s averaging 2.4 yards per carry. The Chiefs are a terrible run team yet they continue to run…and with Johnson. Eventually, Charles will get the nod. He’s averaging 5.1 YPC. As tempting as it’s been to dump him, he remains on my bench. Hopefully, eventually, it’ll pay off.

Shonn Greene – Another running back with upside, Greene has taken away carries from Thomas Jones. Probably too early to start him unless you’re in a very deep league, but keep your eye on him.

Brent Celek – Did you know he has more receiving yards than teammate DeSean Jackson? In only four games, he has 303 yards.

Rashard Mendenhall – Mendenhall is expected to start but will split carries with Willie Parker, who returns this week. Parker, how has a custom shoe designed for turf toe. Both the injury and the special shoe with a metal plate can slow a running back down.

Dwayne Bowe - Trade rumors are swirling. Possible trade to Baltimore. Bowe owners like this.

Chad Ocho Cinco – I have no updates as Twitter is down right now. This completely jacks with Ocho Cinco's pre-game ritual. Good sign for the Texans.

Have a question for Erin? E-mail her at erskelley@yahoo.com. Also, tune in to Erin's fantasy advice on the Texans pre-game show on Sports Radio 610 every Sunday at 9:30.

It was a typo

Did I say Derek Anderson last week? And Mohamed Massaquoi? I meant Miles Austin and Jeremy Maclin. You completely misunderstood me.

I’m not defensive, but let’s not forget I suggested Austin Collie, who helped me maintain some credibility. He did score two touchdowns, after all. So, what do I think about Maclin and Austin? I’m undecided on Maclin. Yes, he looked fantastic – 142 yards and two touchdowns last Sunday. But it was Tampa Bay, perhaps the worst defense in the league. And you could say the same for Austin, assembling 250 yards and two TDs. He must have studied the Chiefs’ complicated defensive schemes for hours. Truth is, I like Austin because of the underperforming Roy E. Williams. There’s a void in Dallas, and Austin owners are hoping he will fill it. Maclin, on the other hand, is more likely to be a one-week wonder, or at least taper off a bit. DeSean Jackson is not likely to settle for just one yard again this season.

So, as I look into my crystal ball of smart pickups this week, I will now settle for ones that don’t make me look stupid. Thanks, Cleveland.

Nate Burleson – I like Burleson again this week. He’s one of the most targeted wideouts in the league. Plus Arizona doesn’t protect well against the pass. Add to that Hasslebeck’s return, and Burleson becomes a must start. Bonus: he doesn’t play for Cleveland.

Josh Johnson- Available in nearly every league, Johnson has quietly put up decent numbers and definitely worth consideration if your QB is on a bye this week. Provides increased fantasy value with his speedy feet, giving owners rushing yards they don’t get in most slingers. Faces a weak Carolina run defense this week, so the ground game for Johnson could increase.

Hakeem Nicks – With a reputation for having gifted hands, Nicks becomes more integral to the offense every week. While the Giants have so many talented receivers, that’s ok when Eli is as accurate as he has been. Little nervous about the New Orleans match-up – you certainly wouldn’t pick them to play against – but I would consider him a good option in deep leagues or if you’re short WRs this week.


Looking ahead

Chad Henne - If you have an extra spot on your bench, Miami’s Chad Henne is worth stashing. While he’s on a bye this week, he could prove helpful when your QB faces his bye week. The impressive rookie completed 20 of 26 passes for 241 yards, plus two touchdowns against the New York Jets, one of the best defenses in the league.

Austin Collie – I recommended him last week, but probably hard to see while you were laughing at my other picks. Collie, like Nicks, is another good weapon on a stacked team. The competition doesn’t seem to hurt, but rather keep the defense honest. Collie had eight receptions and two touchdowns on Sunday. I’m a little worried about his production once Anthony Gonzalez returns, which could be after the Colts' bye week. And let me be clear, don’t start him this week as the Colts are on a bye. But he’s a good WR to stockpile.


Phillies Phrenzy

It’s that time of year when I break out all my Phillies gear as they make a run at the World Series. I annoy all my friends….or rather phriends, by changing all my “Fs” to “Ph.” And I think it’s phunny every time. I also wear a gaudy Philly Phanatic bracelet that I’m pretty sure was designed for children. I have beads, caps and a Phanatic beanie baby. I could go on, but it would only make me look worse. Here I am last year with Adam Clanton at Sports Radio 610 glowing over the Phillies championship. I’m rooting for a repeat, of course. My phriends are rooting for me to quit being a dork.

Have a question for Erin? E-mail her at erskelley@yahoo.com or listen to her on Sports Radio 610 on Friday at 9:00 a.m.

Sunday 2-minute drill

Some last second news and advice…

Probable – Donovan McNabb, Cedrick Benson, Matt Hasslebeck, Brett Favre, Derrick Ward

Questionable - Jericoh Cotchery, Eli Manning, Steve Breaston, Wes Welker, Joseph Addai, Jamal Lewis

Out – Willie Parker, Roy Williams, Felix Jones, Darren McFadden, Correll Buckhalter, Fred Taylor


Game day notes:

Knowshon Moreno – Correll Buckhalter is out. Moreno to get a ton of carries against a soft New England run defense.

Jason Witten – Typically a must-start but fantasy owners are disappointed in his production. So are Cowboy fans and media. With Dallas getting a lot of pressure to involve Witten in the offense (and with Roy Williams out), look for Tony Romo and Witten to reconnect.

Cleveland offense – Jerome Harrison will start in place of Jamal Lewis. I like the rest of the offense too with Derek Anderson at the helm. Anderson is a decent start with the bye weeks, and rookie Mohamed Massoquoi has staying power, and likely to be Anderson’s favorite target.

Mewelde Moore – While Rashard Mendenhall will take Parker’s place as the starter, Moore is a decent start if you're team is benching a lot of RBs. He's likely to get more looks/touches than last week.

Joe Flacco – Continues to grow into the QB role. Increasing pass production makes him a must-start. Have two must-start QBs? Get through the bye weeks and trade one.

New England running backs – Even with Fred Taylor out, there’s still no clear No. 1 guy here. I don’t like any of them. Run game stinks, so divide that by three and it’s even worse for fantasy owners.

Matt Jackson to guest host Jim Rome’s show Monday

Congratulations to Sports Radio 610 afternoon host Matt Jackson for landing the fill-in role on Monday as Jim Rome celebrates Columbus Day (???). As my fantasy baseball partner, Matt and I sweated out a second-place finish this season. We’re still very disappointed we didn’t win it all. Check out the show from 11:00 a.m. – 2 p.m. CST on Sports Radio 610.


With the Texans afternoon game today, there's no fantasy segment on the pre-game show. Have a last-second question? E-mail Erin at erskelley@yahoo.com.

Not another Favre story

Yes, it was an exciting game, and yes he can still sling it. Brett Favre owned the Packers throwing three touchdowns, totalling 271 yards. But it won’t last. You were smart if you played him; I’ll give you that. But I don’t see his performance sustaining. I imagine it took several cortisone injections, extended acupuncture sessions and a little bit of Grandma’s medicine for him to recover from that shootout. Favre has peaked. So let’s move on to more important things, like who you should start in place of Phillip Rivers this week.

This is painful, so let me get this over with quickly. Derek Anderson is a decent choice if your quarterback (and his backup) are out. Anderson matches up against an injured Buffalo secondary, so he could take a chance down field. He’s a gutsy QB, so he’ll probably get picked a couple of times, but he’s also prone to the big play, and bound to give you decent numbers. Of course, their biggest offensive threat Braylon Edwards is a Jet now, but that’s ok. Can’t score if you can’t catch.

Nate Washington – Even though he goes against the Colts, who are ranked eighth in pass defense, he’s a good pick. With three touchdowns in his last three games, he’s the top Titans wide receiver. Plus, Kerry Collins isn’t relying on Chris Johnson to propel their entire offense this year. The passing game is a big part of their game plan.

Mohamed Massoquoi – This is my second (gulp) Browns player to mention. And in a good way. The eight passes for 148 yards last Sunday made me look. The Braylon Edwards trade made me claim him. Massoquoi and Anderson showed they had chemistry in week 4. While you can’t expect that performance every week (you know, he does play for Cleveland), you can expect him to contribute. The Bills defense this week doesn’t hurt either.

Rashard Mendenhall – Hard to believe, but the backup running back is widely available. Willie Parker is suffering from turf toe, and questionable for Sunday. Mendenhall likely won’t repeat his monster performance from last week (165 yards and tw0 TDs) – even against the Lions - but he’s likely to get 100+ yards and one touchdown.

Michael Crabtree – The rookie holdout finally agreed to terms with the San Francisco 49ers. While he won’t be active this weekend, expect him to help your team in a few weeks once he learns the playbook. Normally, I’m nervous when a wide receiver is traded in mid-season, and forced to learn a new system. Hopefully, it’s early enough that he can recover. The bye week should also help.

Austin Collie – While he’s the low man on the totem pole, he was targeted seven times last Sunday. This week, the Colts face a sad Titans pass defense, so he could have a good day.

Tight Ends – If you need a temporary fix check out Sean Ryan, who had 58 yards and a touchdown last week for Kansas City. Dwayne Bowe isn’t 100 percent, so Ryan could remain a top target. Bryan Pedigrew is also a good pick. I recommended him last week too, and he delivered – 10 targets, 64 yards. Not bad for temp. Cleveland’s tight end Steve Heiden is also available in most leagues. Heiden caught 5 passes for 33 yards, plus a score. Yes, that's my third Browns recommendation in one blog entry. I feel dizzy.

For last-second advice, listen to Erin this Friday on Sports Radio 610, or Sunday during the Texans pre-game show. If you have a question about your team, you can e-mail Erin at erskelley@yahoo.com.

Sunday 2-minute drill

I just set my lineup and it looks fantastic! For a practice squad. You’re probably feeling the same pains. It’s a tough week for fantasy owners. I can’t remember the last time there were so many key players injured (oh, except last week). And the start of the bye weeks only makes it harder. Here are a few substitute players still available in many leagues:

Brandon Pettigrew – Detroit could be without its starting running back Kevin Smith, and even if he plays, the Bears run defense is tough. Rookie QB Matt Ryan should rely on the pass more today than he has all year. Calvin Johnson and Bryant Johnson should have increased production, but TE Pettigrew is worth consideration. Chicago has a weakness for tight ends, and Pettigrew could have a big game.

Nate Burleson – his value has increased with Seneca Wallace starting in place of Matt Hasselbeck. Last week, he caught nine of 12 passes for 109 yards. Look for him to remain a favorite target.

Pierre Garcon – he’s slowly getting more and more attention. From two fantasy points, to 10 to 13. Look for his value to at least maintain, and possibly rise, until Anthony Gonzalez returns

Tashard Choice – not sure how much Marion Barber will play, but look for Choice to at least split carries. Looked really good last week, boasting 82 yards and a touchdown. Should have had another, but he was ruled down at the goal line. Not bad for third string.

Mark Bradley – with Dwayne Bowe out, he should again get a lot of looks. Looked good in week three. Has a nice assortment of skills. Too bad he plays for Kansas City.

Josh Johnson – this is a long shot, but could be really good. Replacing Byron Leftwich, the sophomore out of the University of San Diego completed 42 TDs with only one interception his senior year. He throws with accuracy. The question is, can the line give the Johnson enough time to get the ball off. Really different pace, going from college QB to the NFL. Good thing is, Washington has a soft pass rush.

Mike Wallace – his chemistry with Ben Roethlisberger is improving, and he’s becoming a favorite target for Ben.

Need more last-second advice? Tune in to Sports Radio 610 Sunday mornings for the Houston Texans pre-game show. We'll talk fantasy from 9:30-9:41. Or e-mail last-second questions to ERSkelley@yahoo.com.