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.

December 22nd Injury Report

By: Christian Hardy

Quarterbacks
- Browns quarterback Colt McCoy (concussion) was sent home from practice early today and will not make the trip to Baltimore, per Mary Kay Cabot.
- Rams quarterbacks Sam Bradford (ankle) and AJ Feeley (finger) did not practice today. Bradford is doubtful to play, and will not test his ankle again until Saturday, according to head coach Steve Spagnuolo.
- Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (ankle) did not practice today and his status is uncertain for this Saturday.
- Cardinals quarterback Kevin Kolb (concussion) was limited in practice on Thursday. John Skelton is expected to make the start, whether Kolb is healthy or not.


Running Backs
- Giants running back Ahmad Bradshaw (foot) did not practice. I think this is more for rest purposes, but keep your eye on Bradshaw tomorrow to see what the news is on him.
- Cowboys running back Felix Jones (hamstring) was not in uniform for practice today and only did light work with the trainers on the side. I do not think he will go this week, but I will keep him in my rankings until get get official word. Even if he does go, he shouldn't be in your fantasy lineup.
- Raiders running back Darren McFadden (foot) did not practice Thursday and is unlikely to play in week 16, but is hopeful about week 17. Michael Bush returned to practice after missing practice with a shoulder injury on Wednesday.
- According to Titans head coach Mike Munchak, Chris Johnson (ankle) will be "fine" and a "go" this week.
- Falcons running back Michael Turner (groin) did not practice on Thursday. Falcons play on Monday night against the Saints, so it might not be too concerning yet. Be sure to keep an eye on it before setting your lineup on Saturday.
- Redskins running back Roy Helu (toe/knee) was limited in practice on Thursday, but said after practice, "I feel a lot better today," which is always something you like to hear throughout the week. Helu should be in your lineup this week, as I do not expect him to be limited on Saturday.


Wide Receivers
- Giants wide receiver Mario Manningham (knee) was not in practice for the second day in a row on Thursday. With an injury like a sore knee, it can flare at any time, and it looks like that is what is going on here. Keep an eye on Manningham if you were thinking about starting him.
- Ravens wide receiver Anquan Boldin (knee) will undergo surgery on his torn meniscus tomorrow and will miss at least two weeks of football, and possibly a few more weeks after that. Rookie Torrey Smith will take Boldin's spot as the number one on the depth chart and is a must start. I also think Ed Dickson's value rises.
- Raiders wide receiver Jacoby Ford (foot) did not practice on Thursday.
- Dolphins wide receiver Brandon Marshall (knee) returned to practice on Thursday on a limited basis after missing practice on Wednesday.
- Chargers wide receiver Vincent Jackson (groin) did not practice for the second consecutive day on Thursday. I'm not sure if it is precautionary or not, but it would be safe to keep him out of your lineup this week.
- Bengals wide receiver AJ Green (shoulder) was limited in practice and is expected to play this week.
- Bills wide receiver Steve Johnson (groin) was able to practice today, but was very limited according to BuffaloBills.com.
- Seahawks wide receiver Doug Baldwin (ankle) did not practice on Thursday. Head coach Pete Carroll said that Baldwin is still expected to play although he missed practice. Golden Tate would be a nice play in deep leagues if Baldwin were to sit.


Tight Ends
- Dolphins tight end Anthony Fasano (concussion) did not practice on Thursday, and has not practiced all week long. He is listed as questionable.


Defense/Others
- Vikings guard Steve Hutchinson (concussion) did not practice on Thursday, nor did corner back Asher Allen (concussion) both players are very iffy to play on Saturday.
- Eagles corner back Asante Samuel (hamstring) did not practice on Thursday and has not practiced all week, a strong sign that he will not play against the Cowboys on Saturday.
- Giants head coach Tom Coughlin informed the media that David Baas will return to starting duties at center. It should be a huge boost to the team's run game.
- The Browns placed safety TJ Ward (foot) on Injured Reserve today, ending his season.

Week 14 Bank/Tank

By: Christian Hardy


What do you know, gang. It looks like it's playoffs, which means it's probably the first time that my advice will help you win (or lose) your fantasy matchups. It's what you have played the first 13 weeks of the season for. Of course, if you are in the playoffs, I'm sure you never were actually taking my advice. That would be quite foolish. Furthermore, you need a win this week. Rather than picking bold picks for both my Bank and Tank, I am going to give you my locks (bank) and my guys that I wouldn't put in my lineup (tank).

What it comes down to in these last couple of weeks is the players that you can depend on to score at least eight points, and not screw the pooch. Essentially, it come down to what you and I look for in the draft: consistency. Consistency is what wins fantasy matchups. If your consistent team stays healthy and produces throughout the season, then you are in. Simple, right? Well, not so much.

My point is, consistency is the key to fantasy football. Don't be that guy who sticks DeSean Jackson or Vincent Jackson in your lineup because of his upside when he has not produced for weeks on end. Don't be that guy that says, "He'll do it this week," because if you are saying bogus such as that, then that guy isn't consistent. Consistency is king, especially in playoffs.

My last thing is, go with your gut. I mean, it's always great to get a second opinon on something. That's not uncommon. What I am saying is, don't let someone make the decision for you. You need to have the last say about who you put in your lineup. If you feel confident about a certain player in your lineup, then don't second guess yourself, even if you have second guessed yourself before.

I guess what I am saying here is: Be smart. It's the playoffs, and that means that there are jellybeans on the line for some (most) of us. Put your money on the guys that you can trust, not the guy that has his ups and downs. Enough of moral talk, let's move on to the real action: Bank and Tank for week 14. This entire week I have been saying to myself just how weird that "week 14" sounds. I cannot believe we have just four more weeks of regular season football left. Sad, but exciting at the same time.


Bank
Matthew Stafford vs Minnesota - It doesn't get much better than this. Stafford, who has double digit points in all but one week this year, takes on the worst fantasy pass defense. The Vikings allow 18.8 points per game to opposing quarterback, including 22.5 points allowed per game since the week 9 bye. Get Stafford in your lineup for this week.

Rex Grossman vs New England - The Patriots allow the third most fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks by allowing 17.8 points per game. Grossman was shut down by the Jets last week (four points), but in the two games before that, Grossman had 40 points combined. If you are scrambling, Grossman is a decent start against the weak pass defense of the Patriots'.

QB Lock - Tony Romo is a lock this week. Traditionally very good against the Giants, and the Cowboys tend to be pass happy against the Giants. If you own Romo, you are starting him.

Shonn Greene vs Kansas City- I expect the Jets to get up early in this game, ad I think that they are going to put the ball on the ground very often. The Chiefs allow 18.1 points to opposing running backs, but they have only allowed three rushing touchdowns in their last seven games. I think Greene touches the ball a lot and he is guaranteed to get a serviceable amount of points, but the Chiefs haven't been all that vulnerable on the ground. I would expect eight to 15 points from Greene against in the Meadowlands this weekend, solely based on the amount of times he is going to touch the ball.

Reggie Bush vs Philadelphia - I think we all know this by now: The Eagles are real bad, and the Dolphins are on fire. Bush has double digit fantasy points in four of his last five games, and the eagles allow almost twenty points per game to opposing running backs. Not only are they letting up fantasy points, but they have given up four rushing touchdowns in the last two games. Get Bush in your lineup this week. Consistency is key, and Bush has been as consistent as can get.

Roy Helu vs New England - Shanahan had made up his mind (for once) -- Helu is a feature back, and it's going to stay that way (yeah, right). The Patriots have allowed a rushing touchdown in each of their last two games, and if anyone is going to get that touchdown, it's Helu. Helu now has 57 (!!!) touches in his last two games combined, while Ryan Torain and Evan Royster have just one touch combined. I can't believe I am saying this, but Helu (under Mike Shanahan) is a top ten running back this week because of the sheer amount of carries that he has gotten in each of his last two games.

Percy Harvin @ Detroit - With Chris Houston doubtful to play this week with a knee injury, the Lions are going to be as vulnerable as ever through the air. They have given up 27 points (vs Carolina), 33 points (vs Green Bay), and 30 points (vs New Orleans) in their last three games. The pass defense has been lacking, and oh, did I mention that Harvin has been a top receiver down the stretch? Harvin has four receiving touchdowns as well as 59 points in his last three games. If Ponder is active, remember he has that hip injury, then Harvin is a great play this week.

Steve Johnson vs San Diego - I know it is hard to trust the Bills, who have had their ups and downs this year, especially when it comes down to the fantasy playoffs. But Steve Johnson, a guy that I have always liked a lot, has a touchdown in each of his last two games, as well as 13 receptions in those two games combined. The Chargers pass defense, in weeks 7 through 11 (before they took on the Broncos and Jaguars in weeks 12 and 13), was awful. They allowed 28 points per game to opposing wide receiver in that span of games (weeks 7-11) and couldn't stop a nose bleed. Johnson is a nice play here, as I expect him to find his way into the end zone.

Kellen Winslow @ Jacksonville - Winslow consistently puts up serviceable fantasy numbers, and is always a fairly big part of the Bucs' offense. The Jaguars allow the third most fantasy points to opposing tight ends. If you didn't draft one of those stud tight ends, then Winslow might just be your best option this week, although he has not found the end zone since week nine.

Tank
Andy Dalton vs Houston - If you have made it this far, chances are, you aren't starting Dalton. But if you are: Here's your sign. The Texans have not allowed two touchdowns to an opposing quarterback since week 5. Is that enough to keep him on your bench? Should be. More of the Texans pass defense comes up later one.

Mark Sanchez vs Kansas City - Since allowing eight touchdowns in their first two games through the air, their defense has been much improved. The Chiefs' defense kept Ben Roethlisberger in check on national television just two weeks ago, and to a lesser extent, help Caleb Hanie to negative fantasy points. Keep Sanchez on your bench.

Cedric Benson vs Houston - It's real tough for Benson owners right now. First Steelers, and now the Texans -- two of the top rush defenses in in the league. The Texans have not allowed a rushing touchdown to a running back since week 8. You heard me right. Keep Benson on the bench, as I figure you have better options heading into your league's playoffs.

Steven Jackson @ Seattle - Ok, don't go out and literally put Jackson on your bench just because I don't like him this week (read the intro again, if you really were going to do that). Seattle's defense has faltered in the last couple of weeks against the aforementioned Roy Helu and Leseasn McCoy. However, they have still only allowed six rushing touchdowns (to running backs) this year, and only two since week four. With both Bradford and Feeley injured, the focus of the Seahawk's defense is going to be Jackson. With Tom Bradstate under center, and CenturyLink Field is going to be roaring on primetime national television, I don't see Jackson breaking eight points this week. Look elsewhere.

Panthers running backs vs Atlanta - Teams tend not to run that often against Atlanta. From weeks 4-12, no team rushed the ball over 20 times with their running backs against the Falcons. In week four against the Falcons, both running backs did squat, but Stewart managed to save the day with a touchdown. Atlanta has really stepped their run defense up since then, and I don't think either of these two (Williams or Stewart) sniff double digits.

AJ Green @ Houston - This is another guy that you aren't going to literally sit, but I don't expect too much out of him. Jonathan Joseph will be on him, and you might know how much confidence I have in Joseph. In the last seven games, the Texans have allowed just four touchdowns to opposing wide receivers. Green is still a wide receiver number two for this week, but not a number one, like he has been.

Marques Colston vs Tennessee - No, it's not Tennessee's amazing defense, it's Colston. Since week 7 in  which Colston went off for two touchdowns, Coltston has zero touchdowns and only one game in double digits. That's the story of Saints receivers. Stay away from Colston's inconsistency in the fantasy playoffs.

Jermaine Gresham vs Houston - Houston has the third best fantasy defense againt opposing tight ends, and have not allowed a touchdown to a tight end since week seven. While Gresham has put up nice fantasy numbers the past couple of weeks, he should be on your bench this week.

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Thanks for reading everyone. Don't be scared to drop by my Twitter and ask me any questions that you might have. You can also email me for longer questions. Don't forget to check out our other writer on Twitter (sidebar) as well. My twitter has updates on players' injuries, fantasy advice, and much more.

I'll be back next week with Let Them Preach (hopefully), but until then, check out Friday's injury report and the fantasy rankings for all of your fantasy needs. See you soon!

Week 13 Bank/Tank

By: Christian Hardy

I decided I would do my week 13 Bank/Tank in video form, just to try it out. How did I do? Tell me in the comments section below.


Video Description
Website/Blog for all your fantasy needs: http://www.theffaddict.com/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/#!/TheFFAddict
Weekly Rankings: http://www.theffaddict.com/p/fantasy.html

Summary:
QB Bank: Tim Tebow, Matt Moore, Josh Freeman
QB Tank: Matt Ryan, Joe Flacco

RB Bank: LeGarrette Blount, Roy Helu. BenJarvus Green-Ellis (Lawfirm)
RB Tank: Michael Turner, Steven Jackson, Cedric Benson

WR Bank: Mike Williams, Eric Decker, Antonio Brown
WR Tank: Roddy White, AJ Green, Anquan Boldin

TE Bank: Owen Daniels
TE Tank: Dustin Keller

Week 13 Picks

By Christian Hardy

Standings (In last four weeks)

Christian (@TheFFAddict) - 39-21

Gabe (@CrazyGabey) - 42-18

Zach (@Zatchj62) - 37 - 23

Taylor (@TaylorStuber) - 34-26

Philadelphia Eagles @ Seattle Seahawks
8:30 PM EST - NFL Network
Line: Eagles by 3
Over/Under:  43.5

Christian's Pick: Seahawks 24, Eagles 23
Gabe's Pick: Eagles 24, Seahawks 20
Zach's Pick: Eagles
Taylor's Pick: Eagles 38, Seahawks 13

Tennessee Titans @ Buffalo Bills
1:00 PM EST
Line: Bills by 1.5
Over/Under: 43

Christian's Pick: Titans 24, Bills 21
Gabe's Pick: Titans 27, Bills 17
Zach's Pick: Bills 21, Titans 13
Taylor's Pick:

Kansas City Chiefs @ Chicago Bears
1:00 PM EST
Line: Bears by 7
Over/Under: 37.5

Christian's Pick: Bears 20, Chiefs 10
Gabe's Pick: Chiefs 21, Bears 17
Zach's Pick: Bears 17, Chiefs 16
Taylor's Pick:


Oakland Raiders @ Miami Dolphins
1:00 PM EST
Line: Dolphins by 3
Over/Under: 43

Christian's Pick: Dolphins 20, Raiders 16
Gabe's Pick: Raiders 30, Dolphins 27
Zach's Pick: Raiders 27, Dolphins 24
Taylor's Pick:


Cincinnati Bengals @ Pittsburgh Steelers
1:00 PM EST
Line: Steelers by 6.5
Over/Under: 42.5

Christian's Pick: Steelers 20, Bengals 16
Gabe's Pick: Bengals 24, Steelers 20
Zach's Pick: Steelers 20, Bengals 17
Taylor's Pick:


New York Jets @ Washington Redskins
1:00 PM EST
Line: Jets by 3
Over/Under: 38.5

Christian's Pick: Jets 24, Redskins 14
Gabe's Pick: Jets 17, Redskins 14
Zach's Pick: Jets 17, Redskins 13
Taylor's Pick:


Atlanta Falcons @ Houston Texans
1:00 PM EST
Line: Falcons by 2.5
Over/Under: 37.5

Christian's Pick: Falcons 20, Texans 16
Gabe's Pick: Falcons 27, Texans 20
Zach's Pick: Falcons 31, Texans 21
Taylor's Pick:


Carolina Panthers @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers
1:00 PM EST
Line: Buccaneers by 3
Over/Under: 47

Christian's Pick: Buccaneers 27, Panthers 24
Gabe's Pick: Panthers 31, Buccaneers 27
Zach's Pick: Panthers 24, Buccaneers 14
Taylor's Pick:


Denver Broncos @ Minnesota Vikings
1:00 PM EST
Line: Vikings by 1.5
Over/Under: 37.5

Christian's Pick: Broncos 20, Vikings 14
Gabe's Pick: Broncos 17, Vikings 14
Zach's Pick: Broncos 13, Vikings 10
Taylor's Pick:



Indianapolis Colts @ New England Patriots
1:00 PM EST
Line: Patriots by 20
Over/Under: 48

Christian's Pick: Patriots 49, Colts 13
Gabe's Pick: Patriots 38, Colts 13
Zach's Pick: Patriots 38, Colts 14
Taylor's Pick:




Baltimore Ravens @ Cleveland Browns
4:05 PM EST
Line: Ravens by 6.5
Over/Under: 38

Christian's Pick: Browns 24, Ravens 16 -- UPSET SPECIAL!
Gabe's Pick: Ravens 27, Browns 10
Zach's Pick: Ravens 21, Browns 19
Taylor's Pick:



St.Louis Rams @ San Francisco 49ers
4:15 PM EST
Line: 49ers by 13
Over/Under: 37.5

Christian's Pick: 49ers 23, Rams 13
Gabe's Pick: 49ers 20, Rams 10
Zach's Pick: 49ers 30, Rams 13
Taylor's Pick:


Dallas Cowboys @ Arizona Cardinals
4:15 PM EST
Line: Cowboys by 4.5
Over/Under: 45.5

Christian's Pick: Cowboys 24, Cardinals 10
Gabe's Pick: Cowboys 28, Cardinals 20
Zach's Pick: Cowboys 30, Cardinals 13
Taylor's Pick:


Green Bay Packers @ New York Giants
4:15 PM EST
Line: Packers by 6.5
Over/Under: 52.5

Christian's Pick: Packers 31, Giants 21
Gabe's Pick: Packers 41, Giants 30
Zach's Pick: Packers 31, Giants 17
Taylor's Pick:

Detroit Lions @ New Orleans Saints
8:20 PM EST
Line: Saints by 9
Over/Under: 53.5


Christian's Pick: Saints 31, Lions 20
Gabe's Pick: Saints 31, Lions 27
Zach's Pick: Saints 35, Lions 21
Taylor's Pick:


San Diego Chargers @ Jacksonville Jaguars
8:30 PM EST
Line: Chargers by 3
Over/Under: 39.5

Christian's Pick: Jaguars 20, Chargers 17 -- UPSET SPECIAL #2
Gabe's Pick: Chargers 20, Jaguars 17
Zach's Pick: Chargers 24, Jaguars 17
Taylor's Pick:

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 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
 
 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

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!