Sorry, fantasy friends. I’ve been a little under the weather this week. Under strong medication, my physician advised me to avoid giving fantasy advice for the sake of those actually listening to me. But I thought if Ben Roethlisberger can persevere, so can I… Oh, wait a minute...
This will be a short blog as I’m using all my strength to set my lineup, and remember which remote control I use for changing channels and which one I use for volume control. And I think I have one that belongs to a VCR from 10 years ago, which is way too much for my medicated mind. Why do I have so many remote controls? Sorry, I digress.
A few notes to consider:
Ben Roethlisberger – His status has gone from “No way he can play with a concussion.” to “We have no backup QB. What concussion?” to “Oh yeah, it’s a concussion. He’s out.”
Meet Denis Dixon, the Steelers temp QB who has thrown one pass in two years. Fortunately for Roethlisberger owners, it appears to be a final decision so you won’t have to choose between Roethlisberger and Dixon at the last second on Sunday night. Assuming this is true, here are a few arms to consider:
Alex Smith – Facing a Jaguars defense that is vulnerable to the pass, Smith is poised for a big day. Add to that his improving chemistry with Michael Crabtree and trusty tight end Vernon Davis. The 49ers will continue to rely on the run, but with the holes in the Jacksonville pass defense, gunning the ball will be too tempting for Smith. Expect 2+ passing TDs.
Chad Henne – I realize the Dolphins mostly run the ball, so Henne doesn’t have high-point potential. But he’s a relatively safe choice who will play a conservative game and get few turnovers. He’ll muster between 11-15 points, which is decent for a backup.
Rock Cartwright – No, not as a QB replacement. I’m not that doped up. But as a replacement to Laddell Betts who replaced Clinton Portis. If you have a revolving RB slot, he’s a good pickup. Cartwright does face a solid Philly run defense, but Cartwright will get the lion share of the carries. If I had the energy, I’d insert something witty about his name. I do like it, but that’s all I’ve got.
Ok, I’m spent. Need a nap. Check back next week when a revived Fantasy Girl returns to Sports Radio 610 and this blog.
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. Her appearance today is a game-time decision.
Sunday, November 29, 2009
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Larry Johnson is haunting me
I don’t own Larry Johnson. In fact, I never have. Not this year. Nor any year. Yet he continues to hurt me.
If there is such a thing as a fantasy restraining order, I need one.
Not for my protection. But for my running backs. Tell me where to file the claim. And order him 100 feet away from my backs. Look what Jamaal Charles can do when he’s not handcuffed to Johnson: 103 yards and a touchdown. Todd Haley should feel guilty. He enabled this.
On Sunday, while watching back after back go down, I was parked at my computer and plucked them all: Justin Forsett for the injured Julius Jones, Jason Snelling for the injured Michael Turner and Bernard Scott for the injured Cedric Benson (I’m in multiple leagues). And of course, on Tuesday it happened. I should have seen this coming.
Larry Johnson is a Bengal. Sigh…
Forsett, Snelling and Scott – Who do you start?
By now, you may have picked one or more. And let’s not forget about LeSean McCoy and Ladell Betts filling in for Brian Westbrook and Clinton Portis respectively. In no particular order, here's a breakdown:
Jason Snelling – Snelling looked solid against Miami last week – 93 yards and one score - so I expect even more against the Giants, who were struggling against the run before their bye week. Plus, New York has provided decent pressure to opposing quarterbacks, disabling the passing game. Atlanta will have to run the ball to win this game. A friendlier Tampa Bay defense is next in line.
Bernard Scott – If you claimed Scott you’ve been holding your breath. Lots of uncertainties – would Benson or LJ play this week? Today it was announced that Benson is out for Sunday. And while Johnson is a Bengal, I don’t expect immediate playing time for him. Scott is likely a safe play because Haley is not his coach. I love the Raiders matchup too. Looking ahead, he faces Cleveland and Detroit. Expect 100 yards and at least one touchdown for the Abilene Christian product this week.
Justin Forsett – With Jones’ broken rib, Forsett finally got his chance, boasting a season-high 149 yards and a touchdown. He’s a great pickup, but owners should consider the Vikings matchup this week - not a friendly defense, yielding the fewest fantasy points to running backs. Up next, Seattle vs. St. Louis. Much better.
LeSean McCoy – Getting the nod with Brian Westbrook’s second concussion this season, McCoy is an attractive plug-n-play vs. Chicago, who ranks among the bottom third in defending the run.
Laddell Betts – Did I tell you I have him also? I’ve had a few RB issues this year. I’m reluctant to start him this week facing the Cowboys at home. They have a tough run defense, although they’re an unpredictable bunch. I’d count on 80+ yards, but hard to count on finding the end zone. The Redskins offense hasn’t produced a lot of scores, especially against good defenses.
Paging Dr. Schaub
Houston Texans Quarterback Matt Schaub, his wife Laurie, Voice of the Texans Marc Vandermeer and Sports Radio 610 host Matt Jackson joined physicians at the Methodist DeBakey Heart & Vascular Center for Leadership Grand Rounds. They got a behind-the-scenes look at one of the nation's best hospitals (I know I work there, but it really is!). They viewed surgeries and even tested some of the same robotic tools physicians use in surgery - of course, not on real patients. Marc brought Junior Mints, a must-have for surgery.
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 (except this Sunday, since the Texans play Monday).
If there is such a thing as a fantasy restraining order, I need one.
Not for my protection. But for my running backs. Tell me where to file the claim. And order him 100 feet away from my backs. Look what Jamaal Charles can do when he’s not handcuffed to Johnson: 103 yards and a touchdown. Todd Haley should feel guilty. He enabled this.
On Sunday, while watching back after back go down, I was parked at my computer and plucked them all: Justin Forsett for the injured Julius Jones, Jason Snelling for the injured Michael Turner and Bernard Scott for the injured Cedric Benson (I’m in multiple leagues). And of course, on Tuesday it happened. I should have seen this coming.
Larry Johnson is a Bengal. Sigh…
Forsett, Snelling and Scott – Who do you start?
By now, you may have picked one or more. And let’s not forget about LeSean McCoy and Ladell Betts filling in for Brian Westbrook and Clinton Portis respectively. In no particular order, here's a breakdown:
Jason Snelling – Snelling looked solid against Miami last week – 93 yards and one score - so I expect even more against the Giants, who were struggling against the run before their bye week. Plus, New York has provided decent pressure to opposing quarterbacks, disabling the passing game. Atlanta will have to run the ball to win this game. A friendlier Tampa Bay defense is next in line.
Bernard Scott – If you claimed Scott you’ve been holding your breath. Lots of uncertainties – would Benson or LJ play this week? Today it was announced that Benson is out for Sunday. And while Johnson is a Bengal, I don’t expect immediate playing time for him. Scott is likely a safe play because Haley is not his coach. I love the Raiders matchup too. Looking ahead, he faces Cleveland and Detroit. Expect 100 yards and at least one touchdown for the Abilene Christian product this week.
Justin Forsett – With Jones’ broken rib, Forsett finally got his chance, boasting a season-high 149 yards and a touchdown. He’s a great pickup, but owners should consider the Vikings matchup this week - not a friendly defense, yielding the fewest fantasy points to running backs. Up next, Seattle vs. St. Louis. Much better.
LeSean McCoy – Getting the nod with Brian Westbrook’s second concussion this season, McCoy is an attractive plug-n-play vs. Chicago, who ranks among the bottom third in defending the run.
Laddell Betts – Did I tell you I have him also? I’ve had a few RB issues this year. I’m reluctant to start him this week facing the Cowboys at home. They have a tough run defense, although they’re an unpredictable bunch. I’d count on 80+ yards, but hard to count on finding the end zone. The Redskins offense hasn’t produced a lot of scores, especially against good defenses.
Paging Dr. SchaubHouston Texans Quarterback Matt Schaub, his wife Laurie, Voice of the Texans Marc Vandermeer and Sports Radio 610 host Matt Jackson joined physicians at the Methodist DeBakey Heart & Vascular Center for Leadership Grand Rounds. They got a behind-the-scenes look at one of the nation's best hospitals (I know I work there, but it really is!). They viewed surgeries and even tested some of the same robotic tools physicians use in surgery - of course, not on real patients. Marc brought Junior Mints, a must-have for surgery.
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 (except this Sunday, since the Texans play Monday).
Sunday, November 15, 2009
Sunday 2-minute drill
A few news and notes as you finalize your lineups:
Probable – Brett Favre, Aaron Rodgers, Maurice Jones-Drew, LaDainian Tominson, Marion Barber, DeSean Jackson, Antonio Gates, Calvin Johnson, Brian Westbrook, Brandon Marshall, Marques Colston, Bernard Berrian, Anquan Boldin, Steve Breaston, Todd Heap, Matt Hasselbeck, Matthew Stafford, Trent Edwards
Questionable – DeAngelo Williams, Ladell Betts, Terrell Owens, Lance Moore, Jermichael Finley, Jamal Lewis, Derrick Ward, Laurence Maroney, Anthony Fasano, Julian Edelman
Out – Clinton Portis, Anthony Gonzalez, Antonio Bryant
Week 10 pickups
Ladell Betts – While listed as questionable, he was slated to fill in for Clinton Portis, who is out with a concussion. While the matchup against Denver may not sound good, the Broncos have softened lately, yielding 324 rushing yards in the last two weeks. Check Betts’s status before game time. He’s a great pickup…if he plays.
Jamaal Charles – Charles has to be the most mentioned player in my blog. Yet, he’s also the most underperforming (ok, Marc Bulger and Derek Anderson edge him out). But it’s because he never touches the ball. With Larry Johnson finally gone, there is no possible way the Chiefs can play Johnson, right? If you’re waiting for Todd Haley to botch this, I am too. Still, I recommend Charles. Again.
Josh Freeman – Freeman performed respectably against Green Bay – 205 yards, three touchdowns and one interception. I must admit the Miami matchup makes me a little nervous. Consider Freeman a good start for deep league formats.
Jonathan Sanchez – The Jets quarterback plays Jacksonville at home. Sanchez has put up great fantasy numbers lately. While the Jets will likely run the ball a lot today, Sanchez could produce if he doesn’t try to do too much.
Robert Meachem – Meachem looked really good last week with 98 yards on 5 catches. Good matchup vs. Rams this week.
Mike Wallace – Three touchdowns in four games.
Steve Smith – Of course, the Carolina Steve Smith. New York is on a bye. Falcons are weak against the pass. Use him in deep leagues.
49ers defense – Ok, too late. But don’t you wish you had them Thursday? I am closing my eyes as I type this, but check out Kansas City. They play Oakland.
Texans-pregame show
Obviously no show today, but join Matt Jackson and Adam Wexler before every Texans game on Sports Radio 610. Matt and Adam give updates and news from around the league, plus you'll hear John McClain, Marc Vandermeer and Andre Ware dissect the Texans game plan. I’ll give fantasy updates and advice at 9:30. For home games, join us live at Reliant Stadium’s Bud Plaza.
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.
Probable – Brett Favre, Aaron Rodgers, Maurice Jones-Drew, LaDainian Tominson, Marion Barber, DeSean Jackson, Antonio Gates, Calvin Johnson, Brian Westbrook, Brandon Marshall, Marques Colston, Bernard Berrian, Anquan Boldin, Steve Breaston, Todd Heap, Matt Hasselbeck, Matthew Stafford, Trent Edwards
Questionable – DeAngelo Williams, Ladell Betts, Terrell Owens, Lance Moore, Jermichael Finley, Jamal Lewis, Derrick Ward, Laurence Maroney, Anthony Fasano, Julian Edelman
Out – Clinton Portis, Anthony Gonzalez, Antonio Bryant
Week 10 pickups
Ladell Betts – While listed as questionable, he was slated to fill in for Clinton Portis, who is out with a concussion. While the matchup against Denver may not sound good, the Broncos have softened lately, yielding 324 rushing yards in the last two weeks. Check Betts’s status before game time. He’s a great pickup…if he plays.
Jamaal Charles – Charles has to be the most mentioned player in my blog. Yet, he’s also the most underperforming (ok, Marc Bulger and Derek Anderson edge him out). But it’s because he never touches the ball. With Larry Johnson finally gone, there is no possible way the Chiefs can play Johnson, right? If you’re waiting for Todd Haley to botch this, I am too. Still, I recommend Charles. Again.
Josh Freeman – Freeman performed respectably against Green Bay – 205 yards, three touchdowns and one interception. I must admit the Miami matchup makes me a little nervous. Consider Freeman a good start for deep league formats.
Jonathan Sanchez – The Jets quarterback plays Jacksonville at home. Sanchez has put up great fantasy numbers lately. While the Jets will likely run the ball a lot today, Sanchez could produce if he doesn’t try to do too much.
Robert Meachem – Meachem looked really good last week with 98 yards on 5 catches. Good matchup vs. Rams this week.
Mike Wallace – Three touchdowns in four games.
Steve Smith – Of course, the Carolina Steve Smith. New York is on a bye. Falcons are weak against the pass. Use him in deep leagues.
49ers defense – Ok, too late. But don’t you wish you had them Thursday? I am closing my eyes as I type this, but check out Kansas City. They play Oakland.
Texans-pregame show
Obviously no show today, but join Matt Jackson and Adam Wexler before every Texans game on Sports Radio 610. Matt and Adam give updates and news from around the league, plus you'll hear John McClain, Marc Vandermeer and Andre Ware dissect the Texans game plan. I’ll give fantasy updates and advice at 9:30. For home games, join us live at Reliant Stadium’s Bud Plaza.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, November 8, 2009
Sunday 2-minute drill
A few news and notes as you finalize your lineup:
Probable – Roddy White, Matthew Stafford, Aaron Rodgers, Calvin Johnson, Devin Hester, Brian Westbrook, Donald Driver, Joel Dreesen, Marion Barber
Questionably questionable (guys listed as questionable even though they'll play) – Kevin Smith (rumor has it, he’ll play), Anquan Boldin (looked fine at practice)
Questionable – Ben Watson, Jerious Norwood, Mario Manningham
Out – Donald Brown, Anthony Gonzalez, Jermichael Finley, Lance Moore, Jordy Nelson
Other Notes
Clinton Portis - A healthier Portis takes the field Sunday vs. the Falcons. With the most IPL (injuries per limb) of any running back – foot, ankle, calf and knee – his bye week gave him a chance to recover.
Steve Breaston – With Anquan Boldin’s ailing ankle, Breaston is likely to get additional looks. Wide receivers have fared very well against the Bears.
Beanie Wells – Wells’ ho hum blocking abilities and early fumbling issues delayed his chances at lead back. While improving, Tim Hightower remains the favorite in Arizona. Hightower has been steady, leaving few opportunities to have his job stripped from him.
Spencer Havner – Green Bay tight end Jermichael Finley is still out with a knee injury. Havner, and not Donald Lee, has filled in nicely for Finley. Three touchdowns in two games.
Donald Driver – While expected to play, I'm worried about his sore neck. Start with caution.
Miles Austin – With five touchdowns in three games, can he maintain these incredible stats? Could be a challenge this week vs. Philly, which boasts the third best defense against wide receivers. Jason Witten is likely to take some of those points away today.
Michael Crabtree – He needs a big game today to show he was worth the fuss. A week Tennessee pass defense should make that a little easier.
Washington Redskins – Yeah, they’re 2-5, but don’t overlook their defense. While they don’t produce a lot of fantasy points, they spoil their opponents numbers.
Miami Dolphins – While they’ve struggled lately, they’re a good pick up this week to play next week (week 10) when they face Tampa Bay. And consider this your bonus: they play Carolina and Buffalo weeks 11 and 12.
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.
Probable – Roddy White, Matthew Stafford, Aaron Rodgers, Calvin Johnson, Devin Hester, Brian Westbrook, Donald Driver, Joel Dreesen, Marion Barber
Questionably questionable (guys listed as questionable even though they'll play) – Kevin Smith (rumor has it, he’ll play), Anquan Boldin (looked fine at practice)
Questionable – Ben Watson, Jerious Norwood, Mario Manningham
Out – Donald Brown, Anthony Gonzalez, Jermichael Finley, Lance Moore, Jordy Nelson
Other Notes
Clinton Portis - A healthier Portis takes the field Sunday vs. the Falcons. With the most IPL (injuries per limb) of any running back – foot, ankle, calf and knee – his bye week gave him a chance to recover.
Steve Breaston – With Anquan Boldin’s ailing ankle, Breaston is likely to get additional looks. Wide receivers have fared very well against the Bears.
Beanie Wells – Wells’ ho hum blocking abilities and early fumbling issues delayed his chances at lead back. While improving, Tim Hightower remains the favorite in Arizona. Hightower has been steady, leaving few opportunities to have his job stripped from him.
Spencer Havner – Green Bay tight end Jermichael Finley is still out with a knee injury. Havner, and not Donald Lee, has filled in nicely for Finley. Three touchdowns in two games.
Donald Driver – While expected to play, I'm worried about his sore neck. Start with caution.
Miles Austin – With five touchdowns in three games, can he maintain these incredible stats? Could be a challenge this week vs. Philly, which boasts the third best defense against wide receivers. Jason Witten is likely to take some of those points away today.
Michael Crabtree – He needs a big game today to show he was worth the fuss. A week Tennessee pass defense should make that a little easier.
Washington Redskins – Yeah, they’re 2-5, but don’t overlook their defense. While they don’t produce a lot of fantasy points, they spoil their opponents numbers.
Miami Dolphins – While they’ve struggled lately, they’re a good pick up this week to play next week (week 10) when they face Tampa Bay. And consider this your bonus: they play Carolina and Buffalo weeks 11 and 12.
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.
Friday, November 6, 2009
Decisions. Decisions.
For Steve Slaton fantasy owners, there’s an elephant in the room named Ryan Moats. Of all the games on the Texans schedule, a fumble in Buffalo was the worst possible scenario for you. And of course, for Slaton. It created the ideal opportunity for Moats to steal the day, and possibly Slaton’s job. The Texans offensive line created huge holes and perfect little paths for Moats to breeze by the Bills’ pitiful run defense. It was too easy.
By now, you’ve probably accepted Slaton’s diminished value. I know how you feel. I own Slaton in two leagues. But it’s worse than just sacrificing a few points each week. Friends, you now have a running back controversy.
Hopefully you were smart or lucky enough to grab Moats. But who do you start this week? I think now would be a good time for Coach Gary Kubiak to address the fantasy faction. But sometimes I get the feeling that head coaches don’t really care about fantasy leagues.
For now, it’s a wait-and-see approach. If Moats is declared the starter, you start him. If Kubiak keeps quiet or provides an answer that doesn’t really answer anything, you start Slaton. But where does Slaton fit on your depth chart now? He’s lost value but he isn’t sidelined. He will play. Perhaps instead of 15 points, now you get eight or nine. My advice to you is to weigh that against your other running backs’ projected point production. But benching Slaton should not be automatic. At least not now.
Week 9 Pickups
Ryan Moats – In case you weren’t paying attention, he’s a good pickup.
Kevin Walter – Walter has been relatively unproductive this season, but will pick up the slack with Owen Daniels out for the season.
Jamaal Charles – Finally, Jamaal Charles is getting his debut as the Chiefs starting running back after Larry Johnson mis-tweeted. Charles averages 5.0 YPC and should have a good fantasy day against the Jaguars.
David Garrard – I was surprised to see Garrard available in about 20 percent of leagues. This week he faces an all-around week Kansas City defense. Garrard is good for 200 yards and 1-2 TDs.
Alex Smith – As I mentioned last week, Smith is a great start this week facing the disappointing Tennessee Titans. While he wasn’t great against the Colts, he wasn’t terrible either, scoring 12-15 fantasy points. The 49ers will likely run the ball more, but Smith still remains a safe option for QB this week.
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.
By now, you’ve probably accepted Slaton’s diminished value. I know how you feel. I own Slaton in two leagues. But it’s worse than just sacrificing a few points each week. Friends, you now have a running back controversy.
Hopefully you were smart or lucky enough to grab Moats. But who do you start this week? I think now would be a good time for Coach Gary Kubiak to address the fantasy faction. But sometimes I get the feeling that head coaches don’t really care about fantasy leagues.
For now, it’s a wait-and-see approach. If Moats is declared the starter, you start him. If Kubiak keeps quiet or provides an answer that doesn’t really answer anything, you start Slaton. But where does Slaton fit on your depth chart now? He’s lost value but he isn’t sidelined. He will play. Perhaps instead of 15 points, now you get eight or nine. My advice to you is to weigh that against your other running backs’ projected point production. But benching Slaton should not be automatic. At least not now.
Week 9 Pickups
Ryan Moats – In case you weren’t paying attention, he’s a good pickup.
Kevin Walter – Walter has been relatively unproductive this season, but will pick up the slack with Owen Daniels out for the season.
Jamaal Charles – Finally, Jamaal Charles is getting his debut as the Chiefs starting running back after Larry Johnson mis-tweeted. Charles averages 5.0 YPC and should have a good fantasy day against the Jaguars.
David Garrard – I was surprised to see Garrard available in about 20 percent of leagues. This week he faces an all-around week Kansas City defense. Garrard is good for 200 yards and 1-2 TDs.
Alex Smith – As I mentioned last week, Smith is a great start this week facing the disappointing Tennessee Titans. While he wasn’t great against the Colts, he wasn’t terrible either, scoring 12-15 fantasy points. The 49ers will likely run the ball more, but Smith still remains a safe option for QB this week.
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, November 1, 2009
Sunday 2-minute drill
A few news and notes as you finalize your lineups:
Probable – Andre Johnson, DeSean Jackson, Aaron Rodgers, Ahmad Bradshaw, Steve Breaston, Donnie Avery.
Questionable – Brian Westbrook, Calivn Johnson, Matthew Stafford, Anquan Boldin, Mario Manningham, Jerricho Cotchery, Percy Harvin, Bernard Berrian, Jonathan Stewart.
Out – Darren McFadden, Anthony Gonzalez, Trent Edwards, Dante Rosario, Muhsin Muhammad.
Last-second sleeper pickups
Chad Simpson – With Donald Brown sidelined by an ailing shoulder, Simpson is promoted to back-up. He’s expected to get 8-10 carries, possibly more if the Colts roast the Seahawks.
Danny Amendola – Amendola's value increases with Donnie Avery out. Almendola led the Rams in receptions last week with five. He’s owned in only 1 percent of fantasy leagues.
Other Notes
Tashard Choice - Jerry Jones said something stupid again. I really don’t mind, unless it affects my fantasy team. Choice did not get more carries like he assured us last week. In fact he didn’t get any. Thanks, Jer. Next time, please tweet me that insider info.
Seattle Seahawks – The Seahawks offensive line is still hurt. Starters Walter Jones and Sean Locklear are likely to miss. Bad news if you own Matt Hasselbeck or Nate Burleson.
Andre Johnson – Andre's not going to let a little bloody lung hold him back.
Ahmad Bradshaw – Bradshaw has a bunch of loose bones in his foot. He might still play.
Steve Smith – Still scoreless through week 7. Carolina fans want a quarterback change.
Kyle Orton- The Denver QB has only one interception through week 7. His o-line has given him great protection, but can that hold against Baltimore this week? I’m a little nervous that he faces an angry Ravens team on a three-game losing streak. Can you believe they are tied with the Bills in wins (3)?
Miles Austin – Austin has saved Tony Romo from ridicule as he can catch anything he throws. He’s a must-start this week, and likely every week. Fantasy owners love Austin's very favorable schedule down the stretch.
Sidney Rice – Brett Favre’s favorite target should get even more looks this week with an ailing Percy Harvin and Bernard Berrian. Could the drama of Favre’s return to Lambeau Field help the Packers, and more importantly, their fantasy potential? Absolutely.
Ray Rice – Despite the Broncos tenacious run defense, running backs have found success catching out of the backfield. Denver has allowed the fourth most receptions to RBs. This serves fantasy owners very well, especially if you’re in a PPR league.
Hakeem Nicks – Nicks has been inconsistent, and some of his catches are flukes. Of course, this still earns you points. But I don’t know if you can count on that "oops catch" every week. Plus, I’ve lost a little confidence in the Giants passing game lately.
Jeremy Maclin – The Eagles wideout has been underwhelming lately. While he’s getting more playing time, he’s not producing. DeSean Jackson is the go-to guy in Philly. Well, he and Cliff Lee.
Vince Young – Longhorn fans, don’t do it. Resist the urge to start him.
Brandon Jacobs – Two touchdowns! It’s week 8!
LaDainian Tomlinson – LT didn’t look so good getting stuffed on the goal-line carries, but he looked better than Sproles getting stuffed.
Greg Jennings – Jennings hasn't caught a touchdown since week 1.
Maurice Jones-Drew – Seven touchdowns in four games. Nice matchup vs. the Titans today. They're all good matchups for MJD.
Probable – Andre Johnson, DeSean Jackson, Aaron Rodgers, Ahmad Bradshaw, Steve Breaston, Donnie Avery.
Questionable – Brian Westbrook, Calivn Johnson, Matthew Stafford, Anquan Boldin, Mario Manningham, Jerricho Cotchery, Percy Harvin, Bernard Berrian, Jonathan Stewart.
Out – Darren McFadden, Anthony Gonzalez, Trent Edwards, Dante Rosario, Muhsin Muhammad.
Last-second sleeper pickups
Chad Simpson – With Donald Brown sidelined by an ailing shoulder, Simpson is promoted to back-up. He’s expected to get 8-10 carries, possibly more if the Colts roast the Seahawks.
Danny Amendola – Amendola's value increases with Donnie Avery out. Almendola led the Rams in receptions last week with five. He’s owned in only 1 percent of fantasy leagues.
Other Notes
Tashard Choice - Jerry Jones said something stupid again. I really don’t mind, unless it affects my fantasy team. Choice did not get more carries like he assured us last week. In fact he didn’t get any. Thanks, Jer. Next time, please tweet me that insider info.
Seattle Seahawks – The Seahawks offensive line is still hurt. Starters Walter Jones and Sean Locklear are likely to miss. Bad news if you own Matt Hasselbeck or Nate Burleson.
Andre Johnson – Andre's not going to let a little bloody lung hold him back.
Ahmad Bradshaw – Bradshaw has a bunch of loose bones in his foot. He might still play.
Steve Smith – Still scoreless through week 7. Carolina fans want a quarterback change.
Kyle Orton- The Denver QB has only one interception through week 7. His o-line has given him great protection, but can that hold against Baltimore this week? I’m a little nervous that he faces an angry Ravens team on a three-game losing streak. Can you believe they are tied with the Bills in wins (3)?
Miles Austin – Austin has saved Tony Romo from ridicule as he can catch anything he throws. He’s a must-start this week, and likely every week. Fantasy owners love Austin's very favorable schedule down the stretch.
Sidney Rice – Brett Favre’s favorite target should get even more looks this week with an ailing Percy Harvin and Bernard Berrian. Could the drama of Favre’s return to Lambeau Field help the Packers, and more importantly, their fantasy potential? Absolutely.
Ray Rice – Despite the Broncos tenacious run defense, running backs have found success catching out of the backfield. Denver has allowed the fourth most receptions to RBs. This serves fantasy owners very well, especially if you’re in a PPR league.
Hakeem Nicks – Nicks has been inconsistent, and some of his catches are flukes. Of course, this still earns you points. But I don’t know if you can count on that "oops catch" every week. Plus, I’ve lost a little confidence in the Giants passing game lately.
Jeremy Maclin – The Eagles wideout has been underwhelming lately. While he’s getting more playing time, he’s not producing. DeSean Jackson is the go-to guy in Philly. Well, he and Cliff Lee.
Vince Young – Longhorn fans, don’t do it. Resist the urge to start him.
Brandon Jacobs – Two touchdowns! It’s week 8!
LaDainian Tomlinson – LT didn’t look so good getting stuffed on the goal-line carries, but he looked better than Sproles getting stuffed.
Greg Jennings – Jennings hasn't caught a touchdown since week 1.
Maurice Jones-Drew – Seven touchdowns in four games. Nice matchup vs. the Titans today. They're all good matchups for MJD.
Turf Pups
I'd had a few questions about the dogs' Halloween costumes. Thank you, I thought you'd never ask! They actually had two outfits: ballernias during the day and Turf Pups (to match their mom) at night. Look how annoyed they are. 
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 (today, she’ll be on at 9:40).
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