Week 1 Fantasy Football Rankings

Let's just jump into it because, if we're all honest with each other here, you're probably not reading this intro anyways. Here are my Week 1 rankings.

These rankings are based on non-PPR standard fantasy football leagues.

Quarterbacks

1. Robert Griffin III vs Phi
2. Drew Brees vs Atl
3. Tom Brady @ Buf
4. Andrew Luck vs Oak
5. Matt Ryan @ NO
6. Aaron Rodgers @ SF
7. Michael Vick @ Was
8. Colin Kaepernick vs GB
9. Ben Roethlisberger vs Ten
10. Tony Romo vs NYG
11. Russell Wilson @ Car
12. Matthew Stafford vs Min
13. Eli Manning @ Dal
14. Cam Newton vs Sea
15. E.J. Manuel vs NE
16. Matt Schaub @ SD
17. Terrelle Pryor @ IND
18. Jay Cutler vs Cin
19. Josh Freeman @ NYJ
20. Alex Smith @ Jax
21. Andy Dalton @ Chi
22. Brandon Weeden vs Mia
23. Sam Bradford vs Ari
24. Christian Ponder @ Det
25. Carson Palmer @ StL

Running Backs

1. Adrian Peterson @ Det
2. Jamaal Charles @ Jax
3. Alfred Morris vs Phi
4. Marshawn Lynch @ Car
5. Doug Martin @ NYJ
6. Stevan Ridley @ Buf
7. LeSean McCoy @ Was
8. C.J. Spiller vs NE
9. Steven Jackson @ NO
10. Reggie Bush vs Min
11. Trent Richardson vs Mia
12. Lamar Miller @ Cle
13. David Wilson @ Dal
14. Arian Foster @ SD
15. Maurice Jones-Drew vs KC
16. Matt Forte vs Cin
17. Frank Gore vs GB
18. Darren Sproles vs Atl
19. DeMarco Murray vs NYG
20. Darren McFadden @ Ind
21. Ben Tate @ SD
22. Daryl Richardson vs Ari
23. Ahmad Bradshaw vs Oak
24. Ryan Mathews vs Hou
25. Shane Vereen @ Buf
26. Chris Johnson @ Pit
27. Eddie Lacy @ SF
28. Giovani Bernard @ Chi
29. Bryce Brown @ Was
30. Mark Ingram vs Atl
31. Isaac Redman vs Ten
32. DeAngelo Williams vs Sea
33. Rashard Mendenhall @ StL
34. Chris Ivory vs TB
35. Joique Bell vs Min
36. Jacquizz Rodgers @ NO
37. Vick Ballard vs Oak
38. Bilal Powell vs TB
39. Fred Jackson vs NE
40. Pierre Thomas vs Atl
41. BenJarvus Green-Ellis @ Chi
42. Roy Helu vs Phi
43. Benny Cunninham vs Ari
44. Mike Tolbert vs Sea
45. Ryan Williams @ StL
46. Felix Jones vs Ten
47. James Starks @ SF
48. Shonn Greene @ Pit
49. Michael Bush vs Cin
50. Daniel Thomas @ Cle

Wide Receivers

1. Calvin Johnson vs Min
2. Dez Bryant vs NYG
3. Julio Jones @ NO
4.  Pierre Garcon vs Phi
5. Larry Fitzgerald @ StL
6. Brandon Marshall vs Cin
7. Danny Amendola @ Buf
8. Antonio Brown vs Ten
9. Randall Cobb @ SF
10. Andre Johnson @ SD
11. Dwayne Bowe @ Jax
12. Reggie Wayne vs Oak
13. Roddy White @ NO
14. Victor Cruz @ Dal
15. A.J. Green vs Chi
16. Cecil Shorts vs KC
17. Hakeem Nicks @ Dal
18. Jordy Nelson @ SF
19. Marques Colston vs Atl
20. Kenbrell Thompkins @ Buf
21. T.Y. Hilton vs Oakland
22. Greg Jennings @ Det
23. Miles Austin vs NYG
24. DeSean Jackson @ Was
25. Chris Givens vs Ari
26. Steve Johnson vs NE
27. Mike Williams @ NYJ
28. Anquan Boldin vs GB
29. Golden Tate @ Car
30. Vincent Jackson @ NYJ
31. Steve Smith vs Sea
32. Mike Wallace @ Cle
33. Vincent Brown vs Hou
34. Kenny Britt @ Pit
35. Lance Moore vs Atl
36. Sidney Rice @ Car
37. James Jones @ SF
38. Greg Little vs Mia
39. Emmanuel Sanders vs Ten
40. Ryan Broyles vs Min
41. Alshon Jeffery vs Cin
42. Tavon Austin vs Ari
43. Mohammed Sanu @ Chi
44. Andre Roberts @ StL
45. Denarius Moore @ Ind
46. Rueben Randle @ Dal
47. DeAndre Hopkins @ SD
48. Darrius Heyward-Bey vs Oak
49. Michael Floyd @ StL
50. Kendall Wright @ Pit

Tight Ends

1. Jimmy Graham vs Atl
2. Tony Gonzalez @ NO
3. Jordan Cameron vs Mia
4. Jason Witten vs NYG
5. Zach Sudfeld @ Buf
6. Fred Davis vs Phi
7. Antonio Gates vs Hou
8. Vernon Davis vs GB
9. Kyle Rudolph @ Detroit
10. Owen Daniels @ SD
11. Brandon Pettigrew vs Min
12. Brent Celek @ Was
13. Coby Fleener vs Oak
14. Jermichael Finley @ SF
15. Greg Olsen vs Sea
16. Jared Cook vs Ari
17. Martellus Bennett vs Cin
18. Rob Housler @ StL
19. Brandon Myers @ Dal
20. Anthony Fasano @ Jax
21. Dwayne Allen vs Oak
22. Tyler Eifert @ Chi
23. Vance McDonald  vs GB
24. Scott Chandler vs NE
25. Jermaine Gresham @ Chi

Defenses

1. Texans @ SD
2. Colts vs Oak
3. Buccaneers @ NYJ
4. Patriots @ Buf
5. Steelers vs Ten
6. Seahawks @ Car
7. Rams vs Ari
8. Bengals @ Chi
9. Browns vs Mia
10. Cardinals @ St.L
11. Chiefs @ Jax
12. Bears vs Cin
13. Vikings @ Det
14. Giants @ Dal
15. 49ers vs GB

Week 7 Bank/Tank

It's been a long time since we have met here at my site, theffaddict.com. We missed the Super Bowl, the draft, the Peyton Manning saga, and, most importantly the first six weeks of the 2012 season. However, for much of that time I have been writing my rankings and other assortment of articles over at iConFantasySports.com.

Not only that, but I have essentially micro-blogged my life away on my Twitter feed (@TheFFAddict), where I now have over 25,000 tweets. Then again, maybe that means I need to reconsider my life, I mean - should I be proud of spending my entire life on Twitter? I also have been podcasting on the "Fantasy Football Portfolio" on Blog Talk Radio since June. Monday will mark the beginning of my new podcast "The Streak", which will talk all football news, stats, and other football related topics.

Nonetheless, we're (I'm) back! Let's kick off my return with the players that I like (bank) and dislike (tank) for Week 7 of the 2012 NFL season.

Quarterback Banks
Matt Schaub vs Baltimore - Ravens are ranked 22nd against opposing quarterbacks this season, and will be missing the likes of Lardarius Webb and Ray Lewis, while Jimmy Smith, now an every down corner, and Haloti Ngata will be likely game-time decisions. It's shaping up to be a favorable matchup for Schaub against Baltimore, who has sacked the opposing quarterback just 10 times all season, 23rd most in the NFL. In fact, in Week 6, Tony Romo was sacked just once by the Ravens defense. Schaub should stay nearly unscathed this week behind an offensive line that has allowed just six sacks all season. When you see Baltimore on your player's schedule, you're no longer frightened, you're excited. The defense is very weak, especially with the recent injuries.

Brandon Weeden @ Indianapolis - Let's start off with injury news on Weeden:  He is probable in this game with a foot, but practiced fully most of the week and will start against the Colts. His receivers, Travis Benjamin and Mohmaed Massaquoi are also banged up, and they will likely be game-time calls and will both play limited snaps if active. For the matchup: The Colts have 17.2 points per game (Yahoo!) to opposing quarterbacks this year. That puts them as the 14th worst pass defense, but against the likes of Christian Ponder, Blaine Gabbert, Mark Sanchez and Jay Cutler, they're ranking isn't surprising. They're worse than they look on paper. I want to see if the Browns can gain some momentum here after snapping their 11-game losing streak in Week 6 against the Bengals; this is certainly a winable game for the Browns. Trent Richardson should see the ball in his hands a lot against the very vulnerable rush defense of the Colts, but still expect 30 or more pass attempts from Weeden. I see 275 yards, two touchdowns and a turnover for Weeden this week, and those are more than acceptable numbers for your starting quarterback spot.

Others I like (if you're desperate): Josh Freeman vs New Orleans - we all know how bad that defense is... Jay Cutler against a banged up Detroit secondary... Matt Hasselbeck and Ryan Ftizpatrick face off, and we should see a lot of running of the football, but when they pass, the two quarterbacks should successful.

Quarterback Tanks
Andy Dalton vs Pittsburgh - In Dalton's rookie season, he completed less than 50 percent of his passes in his two games against the Steelers. Dalton has turned the ball over in every game this year, including his three interception game in Week 6. Ball-hawk safety Troy Polamalu has been out for most of the season with a calf injury, and Steelers have struggled to force turnovers, with just two interceptions all season. However, they have done great work in man-to-man, allowing just over 200 net passing yards per game, fourth best in the league. Cincinnati's offensive line has allowed 17 sacks this season, 23rd in the league. I think that this is the week that Dalton tumbles. He's not as good as his fantasy stats have shown to this point in the year.

Christian Ponder vs Arizona - Arizona has the second best defense against opposing quarterbacks in the NFL, allowing 11.5 points per game in Yahoo! leagues, including a game against Tom Brady, in which the Cardinals held Brady to 15 points. Stay away from Ponder this week.

Running Back Banks
Stevan Ridley vs New York Jets - Opponents have rushed on the Jets an average of 32.2 times per game in 2012, including an average of 35.5 when they Jets are on the road. The Jets defense has given up 4.7 yards per carry this season, while New England has averaged 4.2 yards per attempt on the season, including 4.9 yards per attempt in their last three, good for 10th best in the league. Ridley should also see a bit of an increased workload with Brandon Bolden likely to miss Sunday's game.

Felix Jones @ Carolina - Sure, you can make fun of Jones' durability, and his typical struggle to run between the tackles, but in this matchup against Carolina with Demarco Murray out, Jones looks like a start in all formats. Dallas rushed the ball 42 times in a Week 6 loss to Baltimore, so it's obvious that head coach Jason Garret and company want to utilize their weapons in the backfield going forward. Carolina has also allowed 47 receptions to opposing running backs this season, most in the league, and Jones could see some dump-off passes in this game. Be sure to start Jones this week (while he's still fresh). 

Chris Johnson @ Buffalo - Buffalo has given up a league-high 173.5 rushing yards per game this season, and almost 200 yards per game at home. That's a ridiculous amount of rushing yards. If Titans commit to the run - which has been a struggle this season with a league-low 19.2 carries per game this season - then they will likely find themselves in consistent success in this matchup.

Others I like: Bills running backs (CJ Spiller and Fred Jackson) have a good matchup against Tennessee who has allowed over 120 yards on the ground per game. I like Jackson more because of his goal line role. He gets the touches inside the five and the Titans have given up seven rushing touchdowns inside the five this season. ... Phillip Tanner should be used to complement Jones as he was late in the game against Baltimore, he could be a nice flex option. ... If you're desperate, Danny Woodhead could get a nice workload with Brandon Bolden likely to sit ... Montario Hardesty also could be a nice play if the Browns decide to limit first-round draft pick Trent Richardson

Running Back Tanks
New Orleans Running Backs @ Tampa Bay - The Bucs have allowed just 75 yards per game on the ground this season, third best in the league. No running backs are getting significant touches, so none of them are starts. The last time a Saints running back ran the ball 10 times or more was Week 2, when Mark Ingram ran the ball 12 times. It's not only a matchup thing with New Orleans, but it's an every week thing: they don't run. If they try to run this week, then Tampa Bay and their league-best 3.1 yards per carry will shut them down.

Mikel Leshoure vs Chicago - Chicago allows just 3.6 yards per carry to opposing running backs. They have also given up just one touchdown to opposing running backs both through the air and on the ground. Leshoure hasn't scored in either of his last two games, so things are shaping up too good for him this week. Look for Leshoure to score five points or less on Monday night.

Others I dislike: William Powell has a very tough matchup against the Vikings, I wouldn't expect more than six points unless he finds the end zone... Stay away from Ahmad Bradshaw with a manged up foot. I would be surprised if he plays. If Bradshaw is out, I like Andre Brown over David Wilson, but neither will be great starts even in a flex...Shonn Greene won't have another game like he did against Indianapolis next week. They'll be playing from behind, and Patriots have given up 83.2 yards on the ground per game.

Wide Receiver Banks 
Kenny Britt @ Buffalo - 11 targets last week, Britt will soon become a top 10 wide receiver. He is an enormous part of the offense and is one of the most talented wide receiver in the league. Britt says that he is 95% of the player that he was last year, and that's a good sign for his fantasy owners. Against five receivers - Stephen Hill, Dwayne Bowe, Wes Welker, Michael Crabtree, and Larry Ftizgerald - the Bills have given up a total of 34 receptions, 526 yards, and six touchdowns. No. 1 receivers have thrived against the Bills, and I think that Britt has his biggest game of the year in this matchup.

Hakeem Nicks vs Washington Redskins - Nicks is healthy, 'close' to 100%, and ready to be a machine again. When Nicks is healthy, he consistently gauges defenses. He's one of the most physical, gifted receivers in the league and it's great to see him on the field again. The Redskins have given up an average of 2.5 touchdowns through the air per game in 2012. If Eli Manning throws three touchdowns, Nicks will catch at least one. Book it.

James Jones @ St. Louis - Expect to see Cortland Finnegan cover the slot receiver in this game (Randall Cobb), and rookie Janoris Jenkins to cover Jordy Nelson on the outside. What does that mean? Jones is going to be seeing the likes of Bradley Fletcher and Trumaine Johnson opposite of Jenkins. Rams have allowed the second fewest points to wide receivers in 2012 with just 14.7 per game. However, seeing how the Packers performed last week, it's going to be tough to defend all of their weapons. I think all three receivers have respectable games.

Vincent Jackson and Mike Williams vs New Orleans - The Saints defense has been atrocious not only this season, but specifically on the road. They have allowed 9.2 yards per attempt in their road games this season, compared to 7.6 yards per attempt on the road. The Saints have also allowed six touchdowns to opposing wide receivers in the last two weeks. Williams and Jackson have been studs the last two weeks, and it'd be hard to sit them in any matchup, so seeing New Orleans on the schedule this week just makes it that much more sweet.

If you're desperate: Brandon LaFell vs Dallas, Domenik Hixon vs Washington, Brandon Gibson vs Green Bay, Devery Hendeson vs Tampa Bay (Is it a coincidence that all of these guys are at home or what?)

Wide Receiver Tanks
Steve Smith vs Dallas - Smith is averaging just over seven points per game and hasn't found the promise land this season. Cowboys have given up just three touchdowns to opposing receivers all year (all in the last two games). I think you'll see double coverage on Smith for a lot of the game with a corner and a safety, and single coverage on LaFell consistently.

Brandon Lloyd vs New York Jets - He's not putting up great stats right now, and the Jets are tied for the best defense against opposing receivers, allowing just 14.7 points per game. No. 85 is cursed in New England for every player who wears it. Lloyd isn't worth a start at this point.

Antonio Brown @ Cincinnati - It's not that I hate Brown, or the matchup, but he is not putting out the numbers you might expect Brown to be putting up. Looking forward, he takes on Washington in Week 8 which is a very favorable matchup.

Others I dislike: Jeremy Kerley @ New England

Tight End Banks
Scott Chandler vs Tennessee - The matchups don't get any better for tight ends than Tennessee. The Titans have allowed eight touchdowns to tight ends in 2012, and three in the last three weeks. Chandler, owned in 63.6% of ESPN leagues, is a great add for those Jimmy Graham owners who are lacking a tight end for this week.

Other smart matchup plays: Martellus Bennett is a bit concerning with only nine targets in his last three games, but he has a great matchup vs Washington and is off of the injury report. ... I think Hasselbeck is in for a big day and that means Jared Cook should have a half decent day, with upside, if you are desperate.


Tight EndsTanks
Fred Davis @ New York Giants - The Giants have not allowed a touchdown to opposing tight ends this season. They've shut down the likes of Jason Witten, Brent Celek, and Vernon Davis.

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That will just about wrap it up for me. I mentioned in the introduction, you can follow me @TheFFAddict on Twitter for a bombardment of news, notes, and analysis from around the league. You can also check out my podcast, which will make it's debut Monday, hosted on BlogTalkRadio. Thanks for reading.

Week 13 Power Rankings

By Anh Vo

1)      Green Bay Packers (11-0) – The only knock on this team is that they still don’t have a running game, but their superior passing game makes up for it as no team has been able to stop them. Every player on their receiving corp is dangerous (with the exception of Donald Driver) and they all run great routes. Their defense is just as good as last season. While they do give up yards and points occasionally, they make up for those with big plays at critical times. If the Packers can get James Starks to turn it on again like he did in the playoffs last season they will be a sure bet to win the Super Bowl again.

2)      New England Patriots (8-3) – The Patriots offense will always be prolific so long as Tom Brady is out there, however, they still lack the deep threat in that offense. They hoped that void would be filled when they signed Chad Ochocinco, but that hasn’t worked out. Meanwhile, until they can fix their defense, you can’t label them as the favorites with confidence to come out of the AFC. However, surprisingly, their defense has improved as of late despite injuries to their starters as they have been able to pressure opposing quarterbacks pretty well. Will they continue to improve on defense? And will it sustain through the playoffs? We’ll see.

3)      Baltimore Ravens (8-3) – The Ravens will always go as far as their defense takes them, and as of late, they have been on a tear. Even with an injured Ray Lewis they still hold their ground. Ray Rice has been playing well, but not as well as many would expect coming into the season. He’s getting the touchdowns, but has only had four games where he rushed for more than 75 yards. As for Joe Flacco, he’s had a pretty disappointing season thus far statistically. His receiving corp is better this season compared to last season, yet he hasn’t shown any improvement in his game. He needs to play at a higher level if the Ravens want to get over the hump in the playoffs.

4)      New Orleans Saints (8-3) – If there is any team that can challenge the Packers in the NFC, it would be the Saints. They have the quarterback and fire power on offense that can match that of the Packers, but their defense is still a liability. They utilize their receivers the same way the Packers do, and they have one player who is practically unguardable in Jimmy Graham. He’s too fast for linebackers, and too tall for defensive backs. I like how they are finally establishing a consistent running game as of late with Pierre Thomas, Mark Ingram, and Darren Sproles. This is the one part in their game that they do have over the Packers. If they can somehow improve their secondary going into the playoffs, I wouldn’t be surprised if they edge out the Packers in an upset.

5)      Pittsburgh Steelers (8-3) – The Steelers have taken a step back, but the Steelers are still the Steelers and they will find ways to win. The defense isn’t the same defense that strikes fear in opponents anymore, but they are still good. Ben Roethlisberger isn’t as good this season compared to last season (partly due to his thumb injury), but he is still efficient enough to carry the team. The passing game is still there, but the Steelers really need to re-establish their running game. Rashard Mendenhall has six rushing touchdowns, but only one game where he topped 100 yards, and that is simply not enough. If the Steelers want to go far in the playoffs again they will need Rashard Mendenhall to get going and also for their offensive line to do a better job at opening up holes for him to run through.

6)      Dallas Cowboys (7-4) – Ever since DeMarco Murray took over the duties at running back, the Cowboys became a complete team. The team was already good all around, but the only thing they lacked was a good running game when Felix Jones was in the backfield. They have since filled that void with the new rookie, who is much more explosive, and have won their last four games. They have also found another weapon in Laurent Robinson, who has become a touchdown machine in the last several games. When Miles Austin and Mike Jenkins get healthy, they will be a really dangerous team.

7)      Houston Texans (8-3) – If this team was completely healthy, there’s no doubt I would have ranked them up there with the Packers. Initially, they were a complete team, but then both Matt Schaub and Matt Leinart went down, and now they are left with their third-string quarterback. However, I trust Gary Kubiak when it comes to evaluating talent, and if he said he liked T.J. Yates at the start of training camp then I trust that he is a pretty good quarterback who will be able to do enough to keep the Texans going. The Texans have the number one overall defense, the best offensive line, and the best running game in the league, so all T.J. Yates has to do is not turn the ball over and keep the drives going on offense.

8)      San Francisco 49ers (9-2) – I know they have the second best record in the league, but hey, let’s be honest, they still don’t have a passing game. On Thanksgiving Day, they were exposed when they played the tough Ravens defense that contained the run and forced the 49ers to beat them through the air, and they couldn’t do it. The 49ers have the same talent they had last season, with the exception of Braylon Edwards (who has been banged up and a non-factor), Donte Whitner, and a few new rookies. The biggest difference is that this season they have a good coach who is really competitive and has the team playing hard. This team reminds me of the New York Jets two seasons ago. They have a really good defense and a good running game on offense. All the quarterback has to do is just manage the game and throw when necessary to keep the drives alive. But let’s not forget who we’re talking about here… (Alex Smith). He’s still the same Alex Smith that has poor accuracy, makes poor decisions, can’t be trusted to throw the ball down the field, and turns the ball over, whether it be interceptions or fumbles.

9)      Detroit Lions (7-4) – The Lions sure have lost some steam since the start of the season, but they are still a very dangerous passing team. But it looks like they finally have a running game with the resurrection of Kevin Smith…but then he went down with an ankle sprain. However, it is a good thing that it is only minor so he should be back soon. Some help in the backfield now helps alleviate the pain on Matthew Stafford’s throwing finger, as he would not have to throw as much. The Lions’ defense has been tamed as of late, and will now be hurting more without Ndamukong Suh for the next two games. Their biggest concern though is their secondary, as they have been burned by opposing receivers, and it does not help with Chris Houston out with a knee injury. Let’s see how the Lions respond in the next few games.

10)   Atlanta Falcons (7-4) – Their passing attack hasn’t been stellar as many anticipated going into the season, but they have improved in the last few games compared to the start of the season. Tony Gonzalez has bounced back this season and has been a reliable target for Matt Ryan, but Roddy White hasn’t been as good as they had hoped. Now with Julio Jones banged up again, it will be interesting to see how Harry Douglas will do in the next upcoming games. There are reports that Michael Turner is now dealing with a groin injury, which is going to hurt them going forward. With a history of groin injuries, if this continues to linger, the Falcons might have to ease up on his work load to keep him healthy. The Falcons defense has been on and off this season, as they do give up a good amount of points, but they do have a good run defense. Their defense will have to be more consistent now to compensate for the injuries of Julio Jones and Michael Turner if they want to make the playoffs.

11)   New York Giants (6-5) – The defense is banged up right now, and it showed in the last game with the Saints when they got lit up for 49 points. The Giants have not been the same ever since Ahmad Bradshaw fractured his foot. He is much quicker and a better slasher than Brandon Jacobs, and that really hurts their offense because now Eli Manning has to throw a lot more. Hakeem Nicks hasn’t been playing well, and Mario Manningham is hurt, so it has been the “Eli Manning and Victor Cruz Show,” which won’t be enough for their difficult schedule coming up.

12)   Cincinnati Bengals (7-4) – The Bengals have been surprising thus far on both sides of the field. Andy Dalton has been playing really well for a rookie and so has A.J. Green. They are a balanced team on offense, and Cedric Benson has been consistently good, but not spectacular. The defense has been good at containing the run, but their already suspect secondary is now gonna take a step back with their top cornerback Leon Hall out for the season. It will be interesting to see if the Bengals can maintain their success against the tough Steelers and Texans defense coming up.

13)   Oakland Raiders (7-4) – The Raiders have played well despite having a new quarterback in the system and not having Darren McFadden. Michael Bush has filled in nicely and the defense has made some big plays and forcing turnovers in the last three games. However, their receiving corp has been shaky due to inconsistency and injuries, so we’ll see how well their passing game does for the remainder of the season as they will be forced to pass more to remain in the game against high offensive teams. I still have my concerns with Carson Palmer though, as he does turn the ball over quite often when taking a lot of shots downfield.

14)   Chicago Bears (7-4) – I know what you’re thinking: “What the heck?! Why are the Bears ranked so low?!” Unless Caleb Hanie catches fire spontaneously, this team is starting to fizzle out quick. They have average receivers, a weak offensive line, and now they have a quarterback who will be turning the ball over even more. Their defense has been great, but now they will be seeing the field even more as the offense will struggle to keep drives alive.

15)   Denver Broncos (6-5) – The Broncos are on a roll right now. Winning four in a row, and five of their last six games, the new defensive coordinator Dennis Allen has the defense playing hard right now. Pressuring the opposing quarterback has been the biggest factor with Von Miller and Elvis Dumervil on both ends. Meanwhile, Tim Tebow has been doing a good job of running the ball, making good, accurate passes at critical times, and not turning the ball over. It also looks like Willis McGahee is slowly coming back to form as he had some nice runs in the last game against the Chargers. As long as the Broncos can keep the games close, Tim Tebow and the Broncos’ running game will have a very good chance of sneaking out victories.

      Editor's Note: Please welcome Anh to TheFFAddict as the newest addition to our website. He will have a new article (power rankings) after every week, for the rest of the season. Make sure you check him out on Twitter for a good football conversation, @PrototypeDemo. 

Week 11 Game Picks

By: Christian Hardy


Picks standings through two weeks
Christian - 16-14
Gabe - 18-12
Zach - 15-15
Taylor - 14-16
(Click on their names to go to each one of their Twitters)

Lines and over/under from bodog.com on Friday night. By clicking on the game titles, you will be redirected to the ProFootballFocus game preview of the game that you clicked on. Than

New York Jets @ Denver Broncos
Christian's Pick: Broncos 20, Jets 17
Zach's Pick: Jets
Gabe's Pick: Broncos 20, Jets 17
Taylor's Pick: Jets

Carolina Panthers @ Detroit Lions
1:00 PM EST - FOX
Line: Lions by 7
Over/Under: 47.5


Christian's Pick: Lions 24, Panthers 17
Zach's Pick: Panthers
Gabe's Pick: Lions 31, Panthers 24
Taylor's Pick: Lions 27, Panthers 17


Cincinnati Bengals @ Baltimore Ravens
1:00 PM EST - CBS
Line: Ravens by 7
Over/Under: 40.5

Christian's Pick: Ravens 27, Bengals 10
Zach's Pick: Ravens
Gabe's Pick: Bengals 17, Ravens 13
Taylor's Pick: Ravens 20, Bengals 10

Jacksonville Jaguars @ Cleveland Browns
1:00 PM EST - CBS
Line: Browns by 1
Over/Under: 34

Christian's Pick: Browns 13, Jaguars 10
Zach's Pick: Browns
Gabe's Pick: Jaguars 17,, Browns 6
Taylor's Pick: Jaguars 17, Browns 13


Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ Green Bay Packers
1:00 PM EST - FOX
Line: Packers by 13
Over/Under: 49


Christian's Pick: Packers 34, Buccaneers 17
Zach's Pick: Packers
Gabe's Pick: Packers 38, Buccaneers 17
Taylor's Pick: Packers 37, Buccaneers 14


Buffalo Bills @ Miami Dolphins
1:00 PM EST - CBS
Line: Dolphins by 2
Over/Under: 43


Christian's Pick: Dolphins 20, Bills 17
Zach's Pick: Bills
Gabe's Pick: Bills 27, Dolphins 24
Taylor's Pick: Dolphins 13, Bills 10


Oakland Raiders @ Minnesota Vikings
1:00 PM EST - CBS
Line: Raiders by 1
Over/Under: 45.5

Christian's Pick: Raiders 27, Vikings 17
Zach's Pick: Raiders
Gabe's Pick: Raiders 31, Vikings 21
Taylor's Pick: Raiders 27, Vikings 21


Dallas Cowboys @ Washington Redskins
1:00 PM EST - FOX
Line: Cowboys by 8
Over/Under: 41.5


Christian's Pick: Cowboys 30, Redskins 13 
Zach's Pick: Cowboys
Gabe's Pick: Cowboys 34, Washington 17
Taylor's Pick: Cowboys 30, Redskins 10


Arizona Cardinals @ San Francisco 49ers
4:05 PM EST - FOX
Line: 49ers by 10
Over/Under: 41

Christian's Pick: 49ers 27, Cardinals 10
Zach's Pick: 49ers
Gabe's Pick: 49ers 20, Cardinals 14
Taylor's Pick: 49ers 27, Cardinals 20


Seattle Seahawks @ St.Louis Rams
4:05 PM EST - FOX
Line: Rams by 3
Over/Under: 39


Christian's Pick: Rams 16, Seahawks 14
Zach's Pick: Seahawks
Gabe's Pick: Seahawks 18, Rams 13
Taylor's Pick: Rams 20, Seahawks 13


Tennessee Titans @ Atlanta Falcons
4:15 PM EST - CBS
Line: Falcons by 7
Over/Under: 44

Christian's Pick: Falcons 23, Titans 16
Zach's Pick: Falcons
Gabe's Pick: Titans 27, Falcons 21
Taylor's Pick: Titans 23, Falcons 20


San Diego Chargers  @ Chicago Bears
4:15 PM EST - CBS
Line: Bears by 4
Over/Under: 45

Christian's Pick: Bears 27, Chargers 20
Zach's Pick: Bears
Gabe's Pick: Bears 24, Chargers 23
Taylor's Pick: Chargers 28, Bears 23


Philadelphia Eagles @ New York Giants
8:27 PM EST - NBC
Line: Giants by 5 (BetOnline.com)
Over/Under: 45.5

Christian's Pick: Giants 24, Eagles 13
Zach's Pick: Giants
Gabe's Pick: Giants 27, Eagles 24
Taylor's Pick: Eagles 27, Giants 20


Kansas City Chiefs @ New England Patriots
8:37 PM EST Monday - ESPN
Line: Patriots by 15
Over/Under: 46.5


Christian's Pick: Patriots 31, Chiefs 10
Zach's Pick: Patriots
Gabe's Pick: Patriots 35, Chiefs 17
Taylor's Pick: Patriots 24, Chiefs 14

Week 10 Let Them Preach

By: Christian Hardy

Week 10 showed us exactly what the NFL is all about: Absolute tomfoolery.

In the early games, arch rivals Saints and Falcons faced off in Georgia with the division lead on the line, and boy was it a good one. It tailed all the way into overtime, which including a scrutinized decision from Falcons' head coach Mike Smith. Then the Cowboys won their second straight game, and this game against the Bills was never close. We saw another division game in the early games, and this one was a great one too. It was the Bengals against the Steelers, and if the Bengals could win this one then they would finish the weekend two games ahead of the division. Who would of thought that the Bengals would be in the discussion to win the division. Then last, and probably least, the Eagles collapsed against John Skelton and the Cardinals.

The late games were an even bigger shock thought. The Seahawks (huh?) defeated the unpredictable Ravens, in the same stadium where they upset the Saints in last year's playoffs. Then, the Bears clobbered the skidding Lions at Soldier Field. Two out of three games unpredictable? That ruined a lot of people's picks this Sunday.

It was a great weekend for football, and now I'm here to wrap it all up. As you can see, I summarized the picks from all of our contributors. Taylor's picks have no score because, well, he gave me no score. The record before the predicted score is the record of that person on this week, including the game that it is under. I decided not to talk about the games that do not matter, because, honestly, it is the same stuff every week with those couple of teams. With all of that said, let's move on to the games.

Oakland Raiders @  San Diego Chargers

1. Michael Bush could start to get more carries, even when Darren McFadden returns. While gurus were voyaging for a sleeper running back name, such as Taiwan Jones, the guy who really shined was the guy right in front of Jones, Michael Bush. Bush, subbing in for Darren McFadden, went completely berserk with 242 total yards and a touchdown. Bush has now averaged over five yards per carry in three straight games, including 5.2 yards per carry in this game on 30 (!) carries. If McFadden is out in the future, then Bush is a must start.

2. Vincent Jackson is the biggest "Whack-A-Mole" in the history of whack-a-moles. One week, the Chargers roll and Jackson puts up 32 fantasy points in a standard league, and the next week he has one catch for 22 years. I don't know what to think of this guy, but in my eye, he isn't even a top 15 wide receiver. Philip Rivers has too many targets that he can throw the ball to, and while that might help some receivers, it is hurting Jackson, and hurting him badly. Next time you get the chance, I would sell high on Vincent Jackson.

3. At this point, if you have a decent backup, it's time to let Philip Rivers ride the pine for your fantasy team. In eight of his nine games this year, Rivers has finished outside of the top ten fantasy quarterbacks. If you think you have a starter in him, then you are dead wrong. He now has just one game over 20 points, three games over 300 yards, and one game with less than two turnovers. He is an absolute turnover machine, and I don't see it getting better in the near future. His upcoming schedule is; at Chicago, who just forced six turnovers against the Lions; then he is against Denver, who has been getting better, and at Jacksonville where he could finally break out. If you are looking for Rivers to be a top 10 quarterback for you, chances are it isn't going to happen. Not this year at least.

(0-1) Christian's Pick: Chargers
(0-1) Gabe's Pick: Chargers
(0-1) Zach's Pick: Chargers
(0-1) Taylor's Pick: Chargers
Final Score: Raiders 24, Chargers 17

New Orleans Saints @ Atlanta Falcons
1. There isn't any Saints' running back that is getting the carries to be in your lineup on a week to week basis.  For Darren Sproles, you have to solely depend that he is going to be involved in the pass game, or he can break a big gain from the flat. In this game, the Falcons had Sproles' number all day. For Mark Ingram, you are depending on a touchdown, and it's not even a sure thing that he is going to be in the backfield in a certain goal line package. Pierre Thomas and Chris Ivory are both just long shots for me; Ivory is still fighting an injury, and Thomas isn't getting the type of workload that is going to produce. For now, I think it is safe to keep all of these guys on your bench, except for the the possibility of Sproles in a flex spot.

2. Harry Douglas!? Seriously? Eight catches and over 100 yards?! I mean, I know that Julio Jones left with an injury, but who would of thought that Douglas would be the one who took over. In truth, and all seriousness, Matt Ryan played a great game. He finished the game with over 350 yards and two touchdowns (one to Gonzalez and one to Snelling), although he did not show up when it mattered most. I wouldn't be surprised if, after a game like that, Douglas gets a little bit more work in this offense.

3. This is one of the best games to watch every time these teams play. The two quarterbacks are some of the best in the game, and they are very fun to watch. Each of the last six games have been decided by 10 points or less, and the last four have been decided by just a field goal, two of which went to overtime. Drew Brees versus Matt Ryan is always going to be great, and I'm looking forward to seeing them face off again in week 16 on Monday Night Football.

(1-1) Christian's Pick: Saints 27, Falcons 24 (OT)
(0-2) Gabe's Pick: Falcons 27, Saints 24
(0-2) Zach's Pick: Falcons 35, Saints 31
(1-1)Taylor's Pick: Saints
Final Score: Saints 26, Falcons 23 (OT)

Pittsburgh Steelers @ Cincinnati Bengals
1. The Steelers are a perfect example of why fantasy football is a major product of luck. Rashard Mendenhall had 16 chances to run the ball in this game. He finished the game with a 2.8 yards per carry average, but luck(ily), Mendy found the end zone twice, and it paid off for fantasy owners. Then, in the passing game, the one passing touchdown goes to Jerricho Cotchery who is the fourth receiver (with Sanders out) on this team. I'm not saying it is unpredictable, I am just saying that at times fantasy football is very lucky and some of the most unlikely things can happen. Maybe that is the fun of things though, because if someone could predict everything, every Sunday, then there would be no fun in the game. That's what makes fantasy football so great; the guess and luck factors and the chance that a winless team can win on any given weekend (unless you are the Colts, of course).

2. Even if he did only have one catch, AJ Green is an every week start (when healthy, obviously). He now has six touchdowns and double digit fantasy points in every game but one. This game he has a stunning touchdown catch in triple coverage. Andy Dalton loves a guy that can go and get the ball, and AJ Green does just that. I sat him this week (in favor of Jeremy Maclin, I know.) in my main league and it could easily cost me the game. Trust me, I will never sit him again, and neither should you.

3. The Steelers are going to continue to increase the amount of snaps that Antonio Brown gets, and it is well deserved. Although he is not a big red zone target, he is going to become a great fantasy play as a wide receiver two on a team that has a very balanced offense. With Emmanuel Sanders now out for a couple weeks, and Hines Ward being benched for Jerricho Cotchery, Brown is going to become the number two wide out for this team with no competition, and with the talent he has, the possibilities are endless. He is going to become the possession receiver that plays opposite of Mike Wallace, and Big Ben is going to throw to him, a lot.

(1-2) Christian's Pick: Bengals 24, Steelers 20
(0-3) Gabe's Pick: Bengals 20, Steelers 17
(1-2) Zach's Pick: Steelers 17, Sengals 13
(1-2) Taylor's Pick: Bengals
Final Score: Steelers 24, Bengals 17

Buffalo Bills @ Dallas Cowboys
1. Tony Romo is at the peak of his game right now, and he is hitting it right at the right time. With DeMarco Murray in the backfield, Romo looks much more comfortable. To go along with the run game, his offensive line is giving him a nice pocket and he isn't getting hit: He has been hit only three times and has been sacked zero times in the last two games. Tony Romo is taking care of the ball and making smart decisions. As long as the defense and DeMarco Murray hold up, they could go a long ways.

2. Laurent Robinson is the Cowboys wide receiver that I would rather have right now. In his last three games these are his numbers: 13 receptions, 208 yards, and four touchdowns, including two against the Bills on Sunday. What about Dez Bryant? Well, while Dez sees tougher coverage, his numbers have not even compared to those of Robinson's. Dez has the same amount of receptions as Robinson (13), but 30 less yards, and only one touchdown in his last three games. Dez Bryant is always going to be a must start, but believe it or not, I think that Robinson is the guy who is going to score more fantasy points, as long as Miles Austin is gone.

(2-2) Christian's Pick: Cowboys 31, Bills 27
(1-3) Gabe's Pick: Cowboys 34, Bills 31
(2-2) Zach's Pick: Cowboys 24, Bills 21
(1-3) Taylor's Pick: Bills
Final Score: Cowboys 44, Bills 7

Jacksonville Jaguars @ Indianapolis Colts
(2-3) Christian's Pick: Colts 20, Jaguars 14
(2-3) Gabe's Pick: Jaguars 13, Colts 10
(3-2) Zach's Pick: Jaguars 14, Colts 10
(2-3) Taylor's Pick: Jaguars
Final Score: Jaguars 17, Colts 3

Denver Broncos @ Kansas City Chiefs
(2-4) Christian's Pick: Chiefs 24, Broncos 21
(3-3) Gabe's Pick: Broncos 24, Chiefs 23
(4-2) Zach's Pick: Broncos 20, Chiefs 14
(2-4) Taylor's Pick: Chiefs
Final Score: Broncos 17, Chiefs 10

Washington Redskins @ Miami Dolphins
(3-4) Christian's Pick: Dolphins 17, Redskins 13
(4-3) Gabe's Pick: Dolphins 21, Redskins 14
(5-2) Zach's Pick: Dolphins 13, Redskins 13
(3-4) Taylor's Pick: Dolphins
Final Score: Dolphins 20, Redskins 9

Arizona Cardinals @ Philadelphia Eagles
1. The Eagles are one of the most over-hyped teams that I remember in the history of sports. That's all I really have to talk about for this game. John Skelton had a great game, but who doesn't against this Eagles' defense? It is terrible. The Eagles are terrible, and nothing is going the right way for them right now. Michael Vick has injured ribs, Jeremy Maclin has a sore shoulder and hamstring, Desean Jackson doesn't have any money, and therefore has an attitude problem, and on the defense, Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie is fighting through ankle injuries. This team is bad, and I don't see it turning around any time soon. Their next two games are against the Giants in the Meadowlands and then against the Giants.


(3-5) Christian's Pick: Eagles 31, Cardinals 13
(4-4) Gabe's Pick: Eagles 31, Cardinals 20
(5-3) Zach's Pick: Eagles 35, Cardinals 17
(4-4) Taylor's Pick: Eagles
Final Score: Cardinals 21, Eagles 17

Houston Texans @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers
1. Right when the Texans were on the brink of their first AFC South championship, everything went terribly wrong. Their quarterback Matt Schaub hurt his Lisfranc joint in his foot, and it will require surgery. The surgery will cause him to miss the remainder of the season. It's a huge blow for the Texans, and might even give the Titans a chance to win this division, who are now at a 5-4 record. I expect Arian Foster and Ben Tate to take a huge load after the bye week, so both of their stocks will rise. I would drop Andre Johnson to the bottom half of number one receivers, but he is still one of the most athletic receivers in the NFL and Matt Leinart should have no problem finding him.

2. Preston Parker proved why is the only receiver worth owning on the Bucs. He scores points. Only seventeen yards in this one, but he found a way to get into the end zone. That's what counts, and that is something that Mike Williams has done only once all year. Parker isn't startable (none of them are), but he is certainly worth a roster spot, unlike Arrelious Benn or Mike Williams.

(4-5) Christian's Pick: Texans 20, Buccaneers 16
(5-4) Gabe's Pick: Texans 27, Buccaneers 17
(6-3) Zach's Pick: Texans 27, Buccaneers 21
(5-4) Taylor's Pick: Texans
Final Score: Texans 27, Buccaneers 9

Tennessee Titans @ Carolina Panthers
(4-6) Christian's Pick: Panthers 27, Titans 13
(5-5) Gabe's Pick: Panthers 24, Titans 21
(6-4) Zach's Pick: Panthers 24, Titans 17
(5-5) Taylor's Pick: Panthers
Final Score: Titans 30, Panthers 3

Baltimore Ravens @ Seattle Seahawks
(4-7) Christian's Pick: Ravens 27, Seahawks 13
(5-6) Gabe's Pick: Ravens 24, Seahawks 10
(6-5) Zach's Pick: Ravens 31, Seahawks 10
(5-6) Taylor's Pick: Ravens
Final Score: Seahawks 22, Ravens 17

Detroit Lions @ Chicago Bears
1. This is probably very apparent, but the Lions are not what they were when the season started. Their defense is crumbling up front, and their safety play is very soft, and we all know how one on one works. Not to mention the offense, which seems to rely on the production of Calvin Johnson. Without Jahvid Best and the run game to rely on, their entire offense, including Matthew Stafford, has fallen apart. Their receivers, other than Megatron, are not made to play 40+ snaps a game, so if a defense can find a way to double cover Calvin Johnson then it is game over. Stafford has become inaccurate, and he is making bogus throws and decisions. I really hope this Lions team can turn it around, I really do; it has been a great story. But if they don't start becoming more disciplined real soon, then it could get ugly, real soon.

2. Brandon Pettigrew? 77 yards in his last three games? Please, feel free to hit that "drop" button.

3. Bennett is definitely the top guy for Jay Cutler as of now (and that could change at any time, hence the "now"). Of the 19 times that Jay Cutler threw the ball on Sunday, nearly a third of them (six) were flying Bennett's way. Of the 123 passing yards that Cutler threw for, nearly two-thirds (81) of them were to Bennett. His nine completions? Six of them to Bennett. Bennett is definitely a great flex play from here on out, or until this stops. The Bears have the third weakest strength of schedule, in terms of fantasy points allowed to wide receivers with only Atlanta and Tampa Bay allowing less than 20 fantasy points to wide receivers. Bennett should definitely be on a roster, and maybe even in your lineup.


(4-8) Christian's Pick: Lions 24, Bears 20
(5-7) Gabe's Pick: Loins 27, Bears 24
(6-6) Zach's Pick: Lions 27, Bears 24
(5-7) Taylor's Pick: Lions
Final Score: Bears 37, Lions 13

New York Giants @ San Francisco 49ers
1. Before we start the actual review of this game, I just wanted to say that both of these teams are very good, there is no doubt about that/ Yeah, the Giants didn't pull out the win, but they are still right on top of the division, and the 49ers have the second best record in the NFL. Does that tell you anything? Both teams have solid defenses, but the edge goes to the 49ers in this one. The offense battle could of been much more interesting had both teams' starting running backs been able to play in this game (and in Frank Gore's case, play the whole game). Look for either of these teams to make a long run into the playoffs if they keep this up.

2. No 49ers wide receiver really stands out to me, and I think you can drop all of them. Michael Crabtree was exciting for a while, but with Braylon Edwards back in these last three games, the only bright spot has been his touchdown in week eight. In the pas two weeks, he has just 72 yards and no touchdown. If Edwards is stealing looks, then you figure he is faring well, right? Wrong. He has just 119 yards in his last three games back from his knee injury. Neither of these guys is worth a roster spot right now, I would rather have someone with more upside.

3. We are more than halfway through the NFL season and the 49ers have still not allowed a rushing touchdown. Let's keep this real simple. If you have a running back that is going up against the 49ers (unless they are elite), then you have to sit them. Stats through nine weeks don't lie. If they don't let up touchdowns then they are not going to let up touchdowns. Simple as that.

(5-8) Christian's Pick: 49ers 20, Giants 17
(6-7) Gabe's Pick: 49ers 20, Giants 17
(7-6) Zach's Pick: 49ers 14, Giants 10
(5-8) Taylor's Pick: Giants
Final Score: 49ers 27, Giants 20

St.Louis Rams @ Cleveland Browns
(6-8) Christian's Pick: Rams 20, Browns 13
(7-7) Gabe's Pick: Rams 24, Browns 17
(7-7) Zach's Pick: Browns 23, Rams 13
(6-8) Taylor's Pick: Rams
Final Score: Rams 13, Browns 12

New England Patriots @ New York Jets
1. Doesn't this game just get better and better every time Rex Ryan opens his mouth? It seems like every time Rex opens his mouth, he loses! This one at home against a Patriots team that has been ailing as of late. It's great to watch this Jets team season after season, and even better when you have Rex Ryan as your head coach!

2. Mark Sanchez can not perform under pressure. It's Sunday Night Football. Huge divisional game..no, not that kind of pressure. I mean, when his pocket collapses he makes bad decisions, sometimes he make the worst decision: To take a sack. Sanchez has shown some great signs of life this year, but that is one thing he needs to get better at, and it is one of the hardest things to teach an NFL quarterback. He has to know when to escape the pocket, when to get rid of the ball, and when to his his receiver. It's a split second decision, and some quarterbacks just don't have that. See: Tebow, Tim for all of your failing at pocket presence needs.

3. Plaxico Burress is now a must start until otherwise notified. He now has four touchdowns in three games, and an average of four receptions in each of those games. He is surely worth a flex spot every week because of the upside, but he is starting to slip into the starting wide receiver category. Keep and eye on Plaxico as he has some real juicy matchups coming up soon.

(6-9) Christian's Pick: Jets 24, Patriots 10
(8-7) Gabe's Pick: Patriots 28, Jets 24
(7-8) Zach's Pick: Jets 24, Patriots 20
(6-9) Taylor's Pick: Jets
Final Score: Patriots 37, Jets 16

Minnesota Vikings @ Green Bay Packers
(7-9) Christian's Pick: Packers 38, Vikings 24
(9-7) Gabe's Pick: Packers 38, Vikings 27
(8-8) Zach's Pick: Packers 41, Vikings 20
(7-9) Taylor's Pick: Packers
Final Score: Packers 45, Vikings 7

Thanks for reading. Tomorrow my week 11 rankings will come out, with four teams on bye coming into the week. Thursday or Friday will bring my Bank/Tank. Until then, you can check me out on Twitter for all your fantasy news and questions, or you can email me your longer questions.

Week 9 Game Analysis

By: Christian Hardy

The first half of the NFL season has breezed right by us. It's like it was never even here; unless you are a fan of the Bills, 49ers, Bengals. But through eight games, we already know who will be forgetting this season: The Colts, the Dolphins, the Cardinals, and the Rams, all of whom are in the "Suck for Luck" sweepstakes. Week nine is shaping up to be a real good week for football addicts (such as myself) that is full of great divisional games.

 This week, I have my entire crew joining me with their picks for this weeks games. Gabriel Harber (writer of the pickups article) will be a part of it, Taylor Stuber is back for his second week, and Zach Jacobson will join us with his picks. The lines can change before gametime, so make sure to check those. I love the ProFootballFocus previews and recaps, so if you click on the game title, the link will take you to the preview done by PFF. Let's go ahead and get this preview started.

Atlanta Falcons @ Indianapolis Colts
1:00 PM EST - FOX
Line: Falcons by 6.5
Over/Under:45.5

Start

All Your Falcons - Like I said last week, the Colts have a really terrible defense. They have allowed the most passing touchdowns in the league with fifteen, as well as five more on the ground. Matt Ryan, Michael Turner, Roddy White, Julio Jones, and Tony Gonzalez (if healthy) should all feast on this defense this week.

Sit
All of Your Colts - Sure, Atlanta has given up 17 touchdowns on the year, but does that even matter? The Colts have scored only four touchdowns in the last three weeks, so I think it is safe to say you can sit all of your Colts. Garcon could have a nice game, with the amount of passes he gets, but he hasn't scored a touchdown in three weeks now. Keep all of these guys on your bench.

Christian's Pick: Falcons 27, Colts 13
Gabe's Pick: Falcons 27, Colts 10
Taylor's Pick: Falcons 31, Colts 17
Zach's Pick: Falcons 38, Colts 14

Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ New Orleans Saints
1:00 PM EST - Fox
Line: Saints by 8
Over/Under: 50

Start
Drew Brees - He was a huge disappointment last week against the Rams, as he put up a season low 12 points. I think we will see a huge turn around this week in a huge divisional game for the Saints. Last time against the Buccaneers, despite three interceptions and no touchdowns, Brees still has 15 fantasy points. With no Ingram, I see Brees throwing around 40 times, and at least two of those throws being touchdowns.

LeGarrette Blount - In the last four weeks, the Saints have allowed 20 points to opposing running backs per game. with Earnest Graham out for the year, we could see over 20 touches for Blount in this game. Last time he received twenty carries or more, he rushed for over 100 yards and found the end zone against the Colts. Blount is a must start this week.

Sit
Saints' Wide Receivers behind Colston -  Well, let's run through this real quick. In the last three weeks, Robert Meachem, Lance Moore, and Devery Henderson have 27 points combined, and half of those points came from Moore's week eight performance which included a garbage time touchdown. If you are starting one then it has to be Moore, but I would stay away from these guys if you can.

Josh Freeman - Freeman has thrown six interceptions in his last three games, including four in the game across the pond against the Bears. Freeman has been very suh-par this year. He has only two games with twenty points or more (one of which came against New Orleans) and the rest of his games have consisted of less than fifteen fantasy points. I think the Bucs are going to be "run first" in this game unless they go down early, so Freeman is safe to keep on your bench for now.

Christian's Pick: Saints 24, Buccaneers 20
Gabe's Pick: Buccaneers 27, Saints 24
Taylor's Pick: Saints 38, Buccaneers 24
Zach's Pick: Saints 28, Buccaneers 24

Cleveland Browns @ Houston Texans
1:00 PM EST - CBS
Line: Texans by 10.5
Over/Under: 41 

Start
Owen Daniels - With no Andre Johnson, Daniels could see a lot of targets in this game. Without Andre, he really hasn't done much with only five and a half points per game and no touchdowns, but the Browns have allowed 8.5 points per game this year to opposing tight ends, including five touchdowns on the season. The Browns really haven't played any team with a spectacular tight end (Dallas Clark is probably the most talented of the bunch), so if they get Daniels involved then he could be in for a good day.

Arian Foster - Who can only play five of eight weeks and still be the sixth fantasy running back? Leave it up to Foster. The guy has been practically impossible to slow down this year, and what makes you think the Browns are going to be able to do it? Foster has scored seventeen points or more in four of his five games he was healthy (including a forty point performance against the Tennessee). No doubt Foster should be in your lineup this week, and for a long time coming.

Sit
Greg Little - How much of a disappointment has this guy been. The number one wide receiver spot was put onto his plate, and he has done absolutely nothing with it. He still lacks a touchdown this year, and he has failed to hit double digits a single time this year. I'm not even sure that Little is worth a roster spot at this point, and this week, against Johnathan Joseph, he could really struggle. Keep Little on the bench.

Browns Running Backs - News flash: Peyton Hillis and Montario Hardesty are both gone for "at least two weeks", so Chris Ogbannaya is your starter. Excited? Yeah, neither am I. The Texans allow just 13.6 fantasy points to opposing running backs, and even though Ogbannaya will carry the load, I highly doubt he finds his way into more than ten points, or even eight for that matter. Keep "The Silent G" on the bench for this week.

Christian's Pick: Texans 31, Browns 13
Gabe's Pick: Texans 28, Browns 13
Taylor's Pick: Texans 30, Browns 13
Zach's Pick: Texans 34, Browns 17

New York Jets @ Buffalo Bills
1:00 PM EST - CBS
Line: Bills by 2.5
Over/Under: 44.5

Start
Santonio Holmes - When you see the Bills on your schedule, you know you are in for a good game. Holmes has been mediocre at times with less than five points in two of his last four games, which is uncharacteristic for Holmes. The Bills allow over 21 points per game to oppposing wide receivers, which include 36 points performances from Philadelphia and New England. Look for Holmes to have a big game in this one.

Shonn Greene - With twenty carries in each of his last three games, you're damn right I like Greene going against the Bills defense. More in my Bank/Tank.

Sit
Stevie Johnson - Revis has only allowed ten catches this year.  More of that in my Bank/Tank.

Ryan Fitzpatrick - Like I said, the Jets' pass defense has been on point. They have allowed only 6.7 points per game to opposing quarterbacks. the most points they have allowed in a game? Seventeen in week one against the Tony Romo and the healthy Dallas Cowboys. I doubt that Fitzpatrick finds his way to double digits in this one.

Christian's Pick: Jets 27, Bills 24
Gabe's Pick: Bills 34, Jets 17 
Taylor's Pick: Jets 27, Bills 17
Zach's Pick: Bills 21, Jets 10


Miami Dolphins @ Kansas City Chiefs  
1:00 PM EST - CBS
Line: Chiefs by 4
Over/Under: 40.5

Start

Dwayne Bowe - The Dolphins have a really sad pass defense; they allow 23.4 points to opposing wide receivers. They are without their top corner Vontae Davis is inactive for his second straight game, and fourth all year. The already vulnerable Dolphins' pass defense just got more vulnerable, believe it or not. You definitely want Bowe in your lineup.

Jackie Battle - In the last three games, Battle's carries go like this ; 19, 16, 19. Miami does have the 4th best fantasy rush defense, but I am not worried about it. I think Chiefs get up early in this one, and I think Battle might even touch the ball thirty times. Battle is a low end running back two this week or flex play.

Sit
Brandon Marshall - Flowers has been playing out of his mind as of late. Last week, matchup up against Vincent Jackson, he allowed Jackson to catch only three passes on his eight targets, including four pass defenses. With Matt Moore at center, I don't see much here for Marshall.

Jon Baldwin/Steve Breaston - I know that Baldwin had a great week last week, but once he had that dropped pass in the third quarter, he wasn't seen again until late in the fourth. With Baldwin getting more targets, Breaston's value is little to none. Both guys are sort of "wait and see" status at this point.

Christian's Pick: Chiefs 24, Dolphins 10
Gabe's Pick: Chiefs 24, Dolphins 20

Taylor's Pick: Chiefs 24, Dolphins 13
Zach's Pick: Chiefs 24, Dolphins 17

San Francisco 49ers @ Washington Redskins
1:00 PM EST - FOX
Line: 49ers by 4
Over/Under: 37.5

Start
Frank Gore - I just wanted to talk about how awesome this guy has been. In some drafts, this guy fell all the way to the middle of the second round. He is showing those people who passed him up in the draft what he can really do when he stays healthy. He now has 125 yards and a touchdown in four straight games. As of now, you have to put him in that class with Adrian Peterson and Arian Foster because of what he is going right now. Until he slows down, if he ever slows down, he is an every week start.

Fred Davis - This is injury permitting since Davis has been battling a grade one ankle sprain this week. Davis has been en elite tight end when Cooley is not active. In fact, Davis has not scored under nine points in any single game when Cooley is not on the field. At this point, Davis is a must start in all formats.


Sit
Both Quarterbacks - Well, you clearly aren't starting John Beck with a combined 34 points in his last three games. Smith has been an interesting story this year. Last year he was in and out with the other Smith (Troy) but this year he has been fairly solid. However, the Redskins have had a surprisingly average pass defense this year. They allow only fourteen points per game to opposing quarterbacks, so I wouldn't be starting Alex Smith this week, unless you are completely desperate.


Ryan Torain - See Bank/Tank.

Christian's Pick: 49ers 20, Redskins 6
Gabe's Pick: 49ers 31, Redskins 10
Taylor's Pick: 49ers 17, Redskins 6
Zach's Pick: 49ers 14, Redskins 10

Seattle Seahawks @ Dallas Cowboys
1:00 PM EST - FOX
Line: Cowboys by 11
Over/Under: 45

Start

Tony Romo - See Bank/Tank.

Miles Austin - See Bank/Tank.


Sit
DeMarco Murray - Seattle allows just over three yards per rush, which is best in the NFL. While I think the Cowboys will run the ball a lot after they take an early lead, I am concerned as to what Murray will be able to do with those carries. He is still a running back two for this week, and probably still a must start.

Marshawyn Lynch - Dallas had the top run defense in the league until Lesean McCoy shredded them for over 100 yards and two touchdowns, just last week. The thing is, Lynch is not McCoy; he is much worse. Keep Lynch on the bench for this week.

Christian's Pick: Cowboys 30, Seahawks 10
Gabe's Pick:  Cowboys 20, Seahawks 13
Taylor's Pick: Cowboys 24, Seahawks 14
Zach's Pick: Cowboys 41, Seahawks 17


Denver Broncos @ Oakland Raiders
4:05 PM EST - CBS
Line: Raiders by 7
Over/Under: 42.5

Start
Willis McGahee - McGahee is back and you know what that means? Another work horse for your fantasy team. McGahee had fifteen carries or more in all of the games that he has started so far this year, including two such games that he had more than twenty carries. McGahee is a solid running back two this week.

A Broncos Wide Receiver - With Tebow under center, who knows who is going to be the top guy this week. In his first week as a starter, Tebow looked for Demaryius Thomas who was making his season debut, then in week eight we saw Eric Decker see the most targets, including a touchdown, and Thomas was targeted just three times. I would stay away from all three receivers (Decker, Thomas, and Royal) unless you are either confident about who will be the top receiver or until someone does emerge as Tebow's favorite target.

Sit
Darrius Heyward-Bey - One reason for this: Heyward-Bey will likely see Champ Bailey in this game. He is going to be a flex at best.

Tim Tebow -  I could go on and on about Tebow and his quarterback skills, but I'm not going to.I'm going to get straight to the point. Tebow is one of the worst starting quarterbacks in the NFL. He misses open targets, he doesn't no when to escape the pocket, he has terrible feet in the pocket, and his mechanics are god awful. I don't care who Tebow is playing, keep him on your bench.

Christian's Pick:  Broncos 17, Raiders 13
Gabe's Pick: Broncos 24, Raiders 17 
Taylor's Pick: Raiders 27, Broncos 13
Zach's Pick: Raiders 26, Denver 13

Cincinnati Bengals @ Tennessee Titans 
4:05 PM EST - CBS
Line: Titans by 3
Over/Under: 41.5

Start
AJ Green - Double digits in every game except for one this year? That clearly makes him a must start. Get this guy in your lineup.

Jared Cook - This one is a gut feeling more than anything. Bengals only allow 6.3 points to opposing tight ends, which is middle of the pack. I guess I just have a good feeline about this one.


Sit
Chris Johnson - See Bank/Tank.


Nate Washington - He hasn't done much since Kenny Britt went down with injury outside of the fifteen point game that he had last week (product of his rushing touchdown). In this game he is going to see one of the most underrated corners in the league in Leon Hall. Keep Washington on the bench and wait for a better week to play him.

Christian's Pick: Bengals 27, Titans 13
Gabe's Pick: Bengals 17, Titans 13 
Taylor's Pick: Titans 23, Bengals 20
Zach's Pick: Titans 20, Bengals 7
 
St.Louis Rams @ Arizona Cardinals
4:15 PM EST - FOX
Line: Cardinals by 3
Over/Under: 41


Start
Brandon Lloyd - The Cardinals have allowed nearly 25 points to opposing wide receivers in 2011. Lloyd has been the top guy for AJ Feeley with Sam Bradford injured, and Lloyd has put up some great fantasy numbers. Bradford could return from an ankle injury this week (gametime decision), but even if he doesn't, I still like Lloyd in this matchup.

Steven Jackson - Jackson single handedly defeated the Saints last week. The Cardinals allow 17 points per game to opposing running backs, which is even more than the Saints. I expect the Rams to get up early (especially if Bradford is healthy) and run the ball in this game.

Sit
All of your Cardinals - With John Skelton in, I expect this entire offense to struggle. I talked about why I don't like Fitzgerald in my Bank/Tank. I think that the Cardinals will be taken out of this game early (See Jackson, Steven), so that probably Wells will be taken out of the game early as well, in terms of carries.

Christian's Pick: Rams 24, Cardinals 10
Gabe's Pick: Cardinals 23, Rams 17
Taylor's Pick: Rams 24, Cardinals 3 
Zach's Pick: Rams 14, Cardinals 12


New York Giants @ New England Patriots
4:15 PM EST - FOX
Line: Patriots by 9
Over/Under: 51\

Start
Wes Welker - The Giants have allowed seven touchdowns to opposing wide receivers and Wes Welker has scored six touchdowns this year. Mismatch? I think so. I look for Welker to return from his vacation to Revis Island this week with one hundred yards and a touchdown.

Brandon Jacsobs - I don't expect the Giants to run much in this game, but when they do run, it is going to be Jacobs, and when they do get to the goal line it is going to be Jacobs. If I was betting on it, I would say that Jacobs finds the end zone this week against a Patriots team that has allowed just five all year.

Victor Cruz/Mario Manningham - Eli Manning playing like an elite quarterback? Hakeem Nicks out with a hamstring injury? High scoring game? Sounds like the perfect equation for these two guys to have big games, and we know that they can do it.

Sit
Nobody - There really isn't anyone that I don't like in this game. Both defenses are very weak in all aspects of the game, and I expect this game to be high scoring. 

Christian's Pick: Patriots 30, Giants 21
Gabe's Pick: Giants 34, Patriots 31
Taylor's Pick: Patriots 27, Giants 24
Zach's Pick: Patriots 31, Giants 21

Green Bay Packers @ San Diego Chargers
4:15 PM EST - FOX
Line: Packers by 5.5
Over/Under: 51

Start
Mike Tolbert -With Ryan Matthews most likely out, the possibilities are endless for Tolbert. Brinkley got involved more last week, and is expected to play this week despite his concussion he suffered on Halloween night. I could see Tolbert scoring a touchdown along with around 80 yards against a team that has allowed just two this year.

Greg Jennings - This guy has been awesome, and I just wanted to point out just how awesome he has been. He has eleven points or more in every game this year except for one, in which he scored eight points. Jennings is clearly Rodgers' favorite target, and the Chargers aren't going to be able to stop him.

Sit
Vincent Jackson - Until Rivers steps up, I really do not want VJax in my lineup. He has just eight points in his last three games, and only seven receptions in those games. Even though the Packers have a weak pass defense, I am keeping Vincent Jackson on my bench.

Packers Running Backs -  Interesting stat: Neither James Starks or Ryan Grant have scored 15 fantasy points in a single game this season . In fact, neither of those two have scored double digits since James Starks did it in the first two weeks of the season. To add on to that, I expect this game to be a shootout, and I expect less than twenty runs between the two of them.


Christian's Pick: Packers 34, Chargers 24
Gabe's Pick: Packers 31, Chargers 28
Taylor's Pick: Packers 34, Chargers 28
Zach's Pick: Packers 35, Chargers 24


Baltimore Ravens @ Pittsburgh Steelers
8:27 PM EST - NBC
Line: Pittsburgh by 3
Over/Under: 42

Start

Ray Rice - The Steelers have been less than spectacular in the run stopping department this year. They have coughed up an average on 16 fantasy points to opposing running backs so far this year. If that isn't enough, Rice tore up this defense for 26 points when they met last in week one. Rice is the Ravens offense right now, so I think you are going to see him touch the ball 20-30 times, like we have seen him do almost all year long.

Ben Roethlisberger - This is another gut feeling. When Ben plays bad once (he played bad in week one against the Ravens with five turnovers), he comes back and puts on a show the next time. Not only does he usually bounce back, but he also is great at home.


Sit
Anquan Boldin - Boldin has had a great comeback year after letting everyone down last year in his debut witht he Ravens, but the Steelers are staunch against the pass.The Steelers have allowed just 12.1 points to opposing wide receiver per game this season, as well as just five touchdowns to receivers. Boldin is a flex at best in this tough matchup. Luckily for fantasy owners, it is the last time that these two teams will face off in the regular season.

Rashard Mendenhall - The Ravens give up just eleven points per game to opposing running backs per game, and Mendenhall averages just seven points per game this year (including a two point game in week one against the Raven). I think that is all you need to keep Mendenhall on your bench this week.


Christian's Pick: Steelers 23, Ravens 16
Gabe's Pick: Steelers 27, Ravens 24
Taylor's Pick: Steelers 21, Ravens 20
Zach's Pick: Ravens 17, Steelers 14

Chicago Bears @ Philadelphia Eagles
8:37 PM EST - ESPN
Line: Eagles by 7.5
Over/Under: 47

Start
Jeremy Maclin - See Bank/Tank.

Matt Forte - The Eagles run defense is terrible. Last week might of made you think that they are getting better, but they are not. Murray averaged nearly ten yards per carry against this defense last week, so the possibilities are endless for Forte. The Eagles allow 21.6 points per game to opposing running backs, and you know those points are going to be all for Matt Forte to feast on. Get Matt Forte in your lineup, as always.

Sit
Desean Jackson - See Bank/Tank, and Maclin, Jeremy.


Chicago Bears Wide Receivers - Every week it is a different guy. Last week Roy Williams found the end zone, but in weeks past he has done almost nothing, Knox has done little to nothing all year long, and Sanzenbacher seems to only be used in the redzone. On top of that, the Eagles' corners have finally started to look like they were supposed too, especially last week against the Cowboys where the trio (Nnamdi Asomugha, Asante Samuel, and Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie) held Miles Austin and Dez Bryant to just six catches and 51 yards combined. Keep all of these guys on your bench, or in free agency.


Christian's Pick: Eagles 27, Bears 13
Gabe's Pick: Eagles 27, Bears 24
Taylor's Pick: Eagles 31, Bears 17
Zach's Pick: Eagles 24, Bears 17
 
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Thanks for reading. The entire crew (Gabe, Zach, Taylor, and myself) will be making out picks right here every week. We will keep track from here on out for the rest of the season. The record will also be kept on my Twitter, and will be updated periodically on Sunday and then at the end of the week. Be sure to check out the injury report for your injury fix on gameday before you click "submit" on your fantasy lineup, as well as my fantasy rankings. Good luck to you and all of your teams this week. Go get that win!