Week 13 pickups

Robert Meachem – While on a stacked Saints team, Meachem continues to shine, especially in the red zone. The 2007 first round pick has found the end zone in four out of the last five games. Available in 50 percent of Yahoo leagues.

Justin Forsett – Forsett has been impressive during Jones’ absence, boasting another career day last week, netting 130 yards and two touchdowns. There’s a little risk in starting him, however, as Jim Mora contends that Julius Jones is set to return and start. But some don’t buy that and think Forsett will get the nod. Either way, it’s likely to be a game-time decision. Keep your eye on this one.

Alex Smith – With nearly 500 yards and five touchdowns in two weeks, Smith continues to prove he’s the right choice in San Francisco. Vernon Davis remains a steady target for Smith, and Crabtree is beginning to look more comfortable. Once again, he's a good pickup this week. Available in 68 percent of Yahoo leagues.

Jason Avant – With DeSean Jackson seeing stars, Avant is likely to get more looks, and even red zone material with Brent Celek also out. Add to that, the weakened Atlanta secondary, with cornerback Brian Williams out, and Avant is a nice sleeper pick.

Carolina defense – If you manage your defense by flavor-of-the-week strategy, the available flavors aren’t that tasty this week. The teams that play Oakland, Detroit, St. Louis and Cleveland are good, so good they’re probably already taken. Denver (vs. KC) may be available, but if not, take a look at Carolina. They probably won’t dominate, but they do have a respectable pass defense, and they face a young rookie QB.

Houston Texans Football 101

Ladies are invited to join the Houston Texans on Monday, December 7 at 6:30 p.m. for a special football workshop for women. You'll learn football basics and strategy from some of your favorite Houston Texans players and ambassadors. I'll be there to teach fantasy football concepts, strategies and scoring. My goal is for women to leave there saying, "Aha! That's why he watched Cleveland-Cincinnati last week." After the session, you can stay and watch Monday Night Football and enjoy cocktails and snacks. Registration is required. For more information visit the Houston Texans web site: http://www.houstontexans.com/fanzone/Football101.asp

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.