Running Back Blurb Breakdown: Steven Jackson

Steven Jackson
I have decided that Jackson is the perfect Fantasy Football Illusion. We all treat him as if he’s a stud and yet he’s only been in the top 10 fantasy-wise once in his five year career.

So what exactly is keeping him ranked this high year after year? Well for starters he DOES produce well despite missing games and suffering through terrible offensive lines and injured QBs. He can catch the ball, break a big run and fight for hard yards.

But the risk is he has only finished a full season once – in 2006 which was the year he was a top fantasy player. That’s telling – but so is how much he’s been hurt.

He’s also facing another season with a questionable Oline and now has a very young and/or inexperienced wide receivers for a weakening Bulger to throw to.

Jackson once again is a back with a ton of potential – but will it be reached or is it merely an illusion we chase every season?

2009 Running Back Rankings - 6/25/09

So after much shuffling of people and hand wringing, here is the inaugural Blurb top 50 Fantasy Football Running Backs. Over the next day or two, I'll have player breakdowns of about the top 10 or so on this list - not necessarily in order of where I ranked them.

If there is a guy you want to know about beyond that, drop me a line in the comments or at thunderingblurb(a)gmail.com and I'll try to get on it ASAP.

A lot of this list comes down to my feeling after several mocks and early redrafts. In my opinion from the second to the tenth pick, you could make an argument for a number of players. Feel free to make YOUR argument known here or even on next Wednesday's Blurb podcast.

Assume these will change by the time training camp hits.


Player
1 - Adrian Peterson
2 - Michael Turner
3 - Steven Jackson
4 - LaDainian Tomlinson
5 - Maurice Jones-Drew
6 - DeAngelo Williams
7 - Matt Forte
8 - Steve Slaton
9 - Chris Johnson
10 - Frank Gore
11 - Clinton Portis
12 - Brian Westbrook
13 - Brandon Jacobs
14 - Marion Barber
15 - Ryan Grant
16 - Ronnie Brown
17 - Knowshon Moreno
18 - Chris Wells
19 - Pierre Thomas
20 - Reggie Bush
21 - Willie Parker
22 - Kevin Smith
23 - Joseph Addai
24 - Thomas Jones
25 - Darren McFadden
26 - Larry Johnson
27 - Jonathan Stewart
28 - Donald Brown
29 - Marshawn Lynch
30 - Ray Rice
31 - Derrick Ward
32 - Jamal Lewis
33 - Cedric Benson
34 - Rashard Mendenhall
35 - Felix Jones
36 - Fred Jackson
37 - LenDale White
38 - Darren Sproles
39 - Julius Jones
40 - Leon Washington
41 - Ahmad Bradshaw
42 - Chester Taylor
43 - Fred Taylor
44 - LeSean McCoy
45 - Willis McGahee
46 - Earnest Graham
47 - LeRon McClain
48 - Jerious Norwood
49 - Laurence Maroney
50 - Justin Fargas


JUST MISSED

Cedric Peerman - Will he take over for McGahee?
Shonn Greene - The future Thomas Jones - will he get snaps?
Tim Hightower - If Wells holds out, Hightower gets a second chance.
Tashard Choice - Who is spelling Barber? Will Choice get a shot?
Jamaal Charles - LJ isn't getting younger.
Rashad Jennings - Someone has to spell MJD. Jennings has the talent.
Michael Bush - Looks great in shorts. Will he make it a three headed monster?

Back soon with the first batches of player breakdowns.

RB Rankings for Week 12

LT has not been himself this season - more because of Oline play than a decline in his ability, no matter what Fantasy owners think. But the Colts are still averaging 138.5 yards allowed per game and have given up 15 rushing TDs. Those who expect Tomlinson to continue to struggle may be in for a surprise the rest of the way. The key is the offensive line though and some of those matchups may be more about how they play than the strength of the run defense. This week I think both the oline and LT get the job done.

Matt Forté has had a tremendous rookie season and will be going up against a staggering Rams team. While Kyle Orton is still getting his legs underneath him after his injury, Forté will continue to carry the load. The Rams will be hard pressed to stop this playmaker either on the ground or through the air.

The biggest challenge facing Adrian Peterson any given week may just be Brad Childress. he had a great first half against the Bucs but Childress looked other directions for most of the rest of the game. Some of that was the Bucs scheme but some of it was flat out impossible to figure out. Against a shaky Jags D, Peterson should be gold, but one can only hope Childress keeps his biggest playmaker on the field, especially late in the game when the D is run down.

The biggest recipient of good fortune because of Tony Romo's return is defintitely Marion Barber, as shown by his huge game last week. Barber can be dominating and showed it last week, burying the Redskins in the 4th quarter. The 49rs may be playing tougher since Mike Singletary took over but they are still a middling 17th in the NFL against the rush and that's not good enough to slow Barber down.

Frank Gore had a great game last week against the sad-sack Rams and while he faces a bigger challenge this week, it's not so big I can't see him having success this week as well. Dallas did play well last week against Clinton Portis, so there is a worry they may start rolling but Gore is healthier than Portis and will be the sole focal point of his team. And while that makes him a huge focus of the defense as well, Gore is the type of top-flight RB who can overcome it.

1. LaDainian Tomlinson, Chargers vs. Colts
2. Matt Forté, Bears at Rams
3. Adrian Peterson, Vikings at Jaguars
4. Marion Barber, Cowboys vs. 49ers
5. Frank Gore, 49ers at Cowboys
6. Marshawn Lynch, Bills at Chiefs
7. DeAngelo Williams, Panthers at Falcons
8. Steve Slaton, Texans at Browns
9. Michael Turner, Falcons vs. Panthers
10. Maurice Jones-Drew, Jaguars vs. Vikings
11. Joseph Addai, Colts at Chargers
12. Warrick Dunn, Buccaneers at Lions
13. Ronnie Brown, Dolphins vs. Patriots
14. Clinton Portis, Redskins at Seahawks
15. Ryan Grant, Packers at Saints
16. Chris Johnson, Titans vs. Jets
17. Jamal Lewis, Browns vs. Texans
18. Thomas Jones, Jets at Titans
19. Brian Westbrook, Eagles at Ravens
20. Larry Johnson, Chiefs vs. Bills
21. LenDale White, Titans vs. Jets
22. Peyton Hillis, Broncos vs. Raiders
23. Derrick Ward, Giants at Cardinals
24. Brandon Jacobs, Giants at Cardinals
25. Kevin Smith, Lions vs. Buccaneers
26. Jonathan Stewart, Panthers at Falcons
27. Willis McGahee, Ravens vs. Eagles
28. Darren McFadden, Raiders at Broncos
29. Justin Fargas, Raiders at Broncos
30. Pierre Thomas, Saints vs. Packers
31. Ahman Green, Texans at Browns
32. Julius Jones, Seahawks vs. Redskins
33. Jerious Norwood, Falcons vs. Panthers
34. Kevin Faulk, Patriots at Dolphins
35. Antonio Pittman, Rams vs. Bears
36. Tim Hightower, Cardinals vs. Giants
37. Deuce McAllister, Saints vs. Packers
38. Ray Rice, Ravens vs. Eagles
39. Leon Washington, Jets at Titans

Top Fantasy RBs of Week 11

Joseph Addai 153 total yds, 1 rush TD, 1 RecTD, 4 catches - Addai finally has the game we have been waiting for all season long. Not only a factor on the ground, but through the air. The offensive line played better than it has in a while and so had Manning. And so has Addai who looked more like his old self than he has in a long, long time.

Frank Gore 114 total yds, 2 TDs, 2 catches - Gore fell about where I ranked him, but looked better than I expected, if that makes sense. I don't think he would have fared as well against a decent run D, but it's Gore and if you were still nursing doubts as to his eligibility for 'stud RB' status, then you need to pay more attention. Gore will contineu to put up solid numbers every week in part because his coach knows to run a stud back. Are you listening Childress?

Marshawn Lynch 177 total yds, 1 rec td, 10 catches - Lynch was pefectly involved in both the ground and air attack. Edwards had problems going downfield, so Lynch got lots of dump off passes. Will Juaron stop splitting carries with Jackson? I can't say, but this is what Lynch is capable of if you give him the work.

DeAngelo Williams 120 yds, 2 TDs - Williams had yet another ridonkulous game this weekend and is just rolling along. He has some tougher matchups, but he is getting the feature back carries and will be a great spot stud into the fantasy playoffs.

Ryan Grant 151 total yds, 1 TD, 1 catch - Grant finally gets back to where we saw him so often last season and he did it against one of the better rush defenses in the league. Part of the key was the play of the offensive line which opened some good holes for him. He might be just gettign started with some great matchups going forward, including during the fantasy playoffs where he sees Houston and Jacksonville.

THE BEST OF THE REST
Maurice Jones-Drew 93 tot yds, 2 TDs, 3 catches - MJD has another multi-touchdown game and even if the yards aren't there, seems to be a better bet than LenDale White for TDs and yardage.

Steve Slaton 156 yds 1TD - Once again, the rookie out of West Virginia had a great game, even if Ahman Green had 2 TDs to his one, he still gets more carries and chances.

Marion Barber 153 total yds, 1 TD, 6 catches - Barber really missed Romo. So did his owners. No more, as Barber put Dallas on his back and carried them to victory this weekend.

Pierre Thomas 144 tot yds, 1 TD, 4 catches - Thomas filled in very well for Aaron Stecker (injured) and looked much mroe like his 2007 self. Hopefully can keep it up.

Michael Turner 81 yds, 2 TDs - Not a great day yardage-wise for Turner who often seems to be doing less with more carries. Still, continues to be a reliable RB2.

Peyton Hillis 70 total yds, 2 TDs - A good debut for Hillis and probably a taste of what is to come - split catches and carries.The TDs are likely an abberration though. He won't have too many double TD games but should keep the bulk of the work at least until Young returns.

RB Rankings for Week 11

Nothing like a wasted hour for an appointment where the person you were supposed to meet with was sick and you wait 20 minutes before anyone tells you that.

Back now and here are the RB rankings for week 11!

Michael Turner is still playing streaky though he has had two good games in a row. Can he get a third in before he dips? Playing against Denver, I think he can. While Ryan and his receivers will attack the weakened secondary, Turner will get plenty of work and Denver is 27th and have allowed 11 rush TDs so far. Turner might get caught up in the shoot out, but as Denver will have little run game, the Falcons will try to keep Cutler off the field and control the clock. Turner (and maybe Jerious Norwood at #22) will have plenty of work and likely see good production.

Let's summarize Frank Gore's week: Gore: Man my head hurts. I have a concussion. Singletary: You're football player, you're head doesn't hurt, it's your neck. Gore: It is? What a relief. Comedy aside, that smells funny to me. But he apparently looks good in practice this week and will start - and against a terrible run D like the Rams (30th in the NFL) and the Jets blew them up for 206 and 3 TDs. Gore may not do that alone, but he should have a pretty large day. If I was sure he was 100% - and I am not - he'd top this list.

Some call him All Day, I call him Purple Jesus (wish I could credit it to someone but I forget who coined it) but either way, you call Adrian Peterson for your lineup each week. It's a tough matchup, sure. But the oline started opening huge holes for Peterson last week and I think Peterson will have great production again this week though nowhere near the 2 bills he had last time out. Keep in mind Tampa doesn't give up TDs on the ground. But that didn't matter to Thomas Jones against the Pats, huh? Still, keep it in mind.

I think this is a couple weeks in a row that that DeAngelo Williams has been a good to great play. Jonathan Stewart will get carries but Williams is still the primary and will get the bulk of the carries in a tasty matchup against the woeful Lions defense. While they may work at getting Delhomme back on track, I still think the bulk of the work - and fantasy points - will come down to Williams. Expect his third game with 100 yards and a TD.

The Bengals will not be the test for Brian Westbrook and the Eagles that the Giants were so not only do I expect Westy to rebound from his down game. He will get back involved both on the ground and through the air against a D that is bad in both areas of the game. Cinci did strangle the Jacksonville run game last week, but I think the Philly Oline and Westbrook are far better than what there is right now in Jacksonville.

Other notes:
#7 Marion Barber is going to benefit more than almost anyone else to have Romo back as finally opposing secondaries and defenses cannot throw 8 men in a box..... It makes me sad to see LaDainian Tomlinson at #12, but imagine if he wasn't LT, how bad it could be. I think he will have issues but still have a pretty decent day that in perspective will blow away many other RBs vs the Steel Curtain..... How can Steve Slaton be #14 against the Colts? Two reasons - first, the Colts played better the last week and have Bob sanders back and second, Kubiak is saying they will watch his carries carefully and maybe limit them. DANGER DANGER!.... #17 Willie Parker may do better in his debut from injury but that harness worries me a little.... Ladell Betts seems to be ready to go, but I'm not sure how healed he is and how many touches he will get so he sits for a week at #28.... Willis McGahee wins the 'who gets carries this week in BAL' and his prize is a #23 ranking but I gotta tell you Baltimore is quickly becoming the biggest FF headache week to week not involving secret season ending injuries......


Running backs

1. Michael Turner, Falcons vs. Broncos
2. Frank Gore, 49ers vs. Rams
3. Adrian Peterson, Vikings at Buccaneers
4. DeAngelo Williams, Panthers vs. Lions
5. Brian Westbrook, Eagles at Bengals
6. Matt Forté, Bears at Packers
7. Marion Barber, Cowboys at Redskins
8. Chris Johnson, Titans at Jaguars
9. Tim Hightower, Cardinals at Seahawks
10. Joseph Addai, Colts vs. Texans
11. Ronnie Brown, Dolphins vs. Raiders
12. LaDainian Tomlinson, Chargers at Steelers
13. Marshawn Lynch, Bills vs. Browns
14. Steve Slaton, Texans at Colts
15. Maurice Jones-Drew, Jaguars vs. Titans
16. Jamal Lewis, Browns at Bills
17. Willie Parker, Steelers vs. Chargers
18. Kevin Smith, Lions at Panthers
19. Ryan Grant, Packers vs. Bears
20. Brandon Jacobs, Giants vs. Ravens
21. Larry Johnson, Chiefs vs. Saints
22. Jerious Norwood, Falcons vs. Broncos
23. Willis McGahee, Ravens at Giants
24. Peyton Hillis, Broncos at Falcons
25. Ricky Williams, Dolphins vs. Raiders
26. Dominic Rhodes, Colts vs. Texans
27. Jonathan Stewart, Panthers vs. Lions
28. Ladell Betts Redskins vs. Cowboys
29. LenDale White, Titans at Jaguars
30. Cedric Benson, Bengals vs. Eagles
31. Julius Jones, Seahawks vs. Cardinals
32. Deuce McAllister, Saints at Chiefs
33. Ahman Green, Texans at Colts
34. Justin Fargas, Raiders at Dolphins
35. Antonio Pittman, Rams at 49ers

WR Rankings for Week 11

Anquan Boldin is just the man - he is in a prolific passing offense with fellow receivers to draw coverage off him, with a great matchup. On top of that, he's getting plenty of scoring targets in the red zone - more than Larry Fitzgerald since Boldin returned from injury. Could be a fairly huge day for Boldin, who is certainly the Anti-Mr.Glass round these parts.

Roddy White broke his streak of consecutive games with a TD in Week 9, but got back on track against New Orleans. Along with his fresh status as a weapon, he's getting tighter coverage and opportunities for catches are a little more scarce. But he's facing a secondary with it's fair share of problems, not the least of which is Champ Bailey's continuing absence. Bailey started practicing, but even with him, the secondary give up a lot of yards (242 per game) and TDs (14) with almost no sacks (3). They have a good pass rush, but the Falcons Oline has protected Ryan well and that should give White time to break free from coeverage and have himself a good day.

Brandon Marshall was thrown to a ton in the first half and would have had a truly monster game had he been able to hang onto a few passes he dropped. As it is, the late TD gave his day a little more oomph - but that's Marshall. he gets the opportunity, he has the ability, he just needs to maintain focus. Atlanta's secondary is shaky and as I mention in the review of Cutler, the run game is messy enough to where Cutler will have to throw. He will target Marshall early and often and I expect the WR to hang onto the ball better thisweek, putting him in line for a huge game.

So, Reggie Wayne was hurt last week, right? And he didn't practice Wednesday and Thursday, right? True on both counts. But last week he was questionable and all he did was catch 114 yards and a TD. Some people have him ranked farther back due to the questionable status but if he's in, this is where I have him. And I think he will be in and productive against a shaky Houston secondary that is playing better but will not be able to contain Wayne and Manning.

Steve Smith was just getting rolling going into last week, coming off three 100 yard games in a row. And then he biffed hard against a stouter than expected Oakland secondary and probably killed more owners than Bernard Berrian's donut. He gets back on track this week, against a horrific pass defense in the Lions. They have no corner that can match up to Smith and while I have Delhomme ranked fairly far back, that is in great part to the fact that DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart will get a huge workload. But when he throws, it will be to Smith and I think Smith will have a much better day than Delhomme.

Other Notes:
Yes, that's Dwayne Bowe at 10 - he has a Qb who can throw and is playing pretty well, Mark Bradley or not.... Hines Ward sits at 15, where he is an excellent red zone target and reliable pass catcher for Roethlisberger and is the steadiest thing in that offense..... At #16 Vincent Jackson is right behind Ward and like Steve Smith, is a guy who could have a better day than his QB does, even against a stout Steeler defense..... And yes, Terrell Owens is still a marginal top 20 guy, at 18, even with Romo back. Let's see if anything has changed since they weren't connecting enough before the injury to Romo...... Show of hands. When the season started, who would have forseen Houshmandzedah (31), Chad Johnson (Ocho Whatever at 33) and Plaxico Burress (35) on the bottom end of any rankings?

Wide receivers

1. Anquan Boldin, Cardinals at Seahawks
2. Roddy White, Falcons vs. Broncos
3. Brandon Marshall, Broncos at Falcons
4. Reggie Wayne, Colts vs. Texans
5. Steve Smith, Panthers vs. Lions
6. Andre Johnson, Texans at Colts
7. Larry Fitzgerald, Cardinals at Seahawks
8. Calvin Johnson, Lions at Panthers
9. Greg Jennings, Packers vs. Bears
10. Dwayne Bowe, Chiefs vs. Saints
11. Marques Colston, Saints at Chiefs
12. Lee Evans, Bills vs. Browns
13. Antonio Bryant, Buccaneers vs. Vikings
14. Santana Moss, Redskins vs. Cowboys
15. Hines Ward, Steelers vs. Chargers
16. Vincent Jackson, Chargers at Steelers
17. Santonio Holmes, Steelers vs. Chargers
18. Terrell Owens, Cowboys at Redskins
19. Eddie Royal, Broncos at Falcons
20. Muhsin Muhammad, Panthers vs. Lions
21. Bernard Berrian, Vikings at Buccaneers
22. Lance Moore, Saints at Chiefs
23. Donald Driver, Packers vs. Bears
24. Steve Breaston, Cardinals at Seahawks
25. Donnie Avery, Rams at 49ers
26. Braylon Edwards, Browns at Bills
27. Devery Henderson, Saints at Chiefs
28. Michael Jenkins, Falcons vs. Broncos
29. Roy Williams, Cowboys at Redskins
30. Marvin Harrison, Colts vs. Texans
31. T.J. Houshmandzadeh, Bengals vs. Eagles
32. DeSean Jackson, Eagles at Bengals
33. Chad Ocho Cinco, Bengals vs. Eagles
34. Kevin Curtis, Eagles at Bengals
35. Plaxico Burress, Giants vs. Ravens

Back later with the RBs...

As I said on the ESPNRadio show (I am an attention whore, huh?) LaDainian Tomlinson tends to get even better as a season wears on. He has the mother-of-all matchups this week and is healthy. God help the Chiefs - or God help Norv Turner if he doesn't have LT (and to a lesser extent, Sproles) plan a cleat on their backs and push. Tomlinson should come out the bye like a house afire.

Adrian Peterson aka All Day aka Purple Jesus aka the reason i am still alive for the playoffs in one league has a mtachup that isn't quite as good as LT's but it's quite salivation worthy nonetheless. The Pack is 27th in the league vs the run and last week got decimated by Chris Johnson and LenDale White for 178yds and a touchdown. In week 1, ADP thumped them for 103yds and a TD. He could, concievably, do even more this time around as he is red hot coming into this matchup.

Now, Frank Gore may find himself behind along with the 49rs in this game. He may be involved in a little catchup. And it's a tougher matchup than folks give it credit for because the Cards score so well. But the 49rs involve him in the passing game so even behind, he is still a factor. Also, San Fran will need to control the clock if they are going to try and limit Warner & Company's time on the field. That's all Gore. And lest we forget, Gore torched them in week 1 for 96 yds and a TD on the ground and another 55yds receiving. This man is a stud and you don't worry so much about him in matchups - you just plug him in.

Brian Westbrook is healthy, his Qb is healthy, the WRs are finally healthy - all good things. The Giants are a tough matchup no doubt but Westbrook has an advantage in that he is 1) involved in every aspect of the offensive gameplan. Carries, receptions - he gets you points everywhere. And 2) with the gang all healthy, you cannot just focus on Westy. He will have more room to run for the fact that McNabb will throw to Curtis and Jackson at anytime so the defense will have to stay honest. Finally, the oline is keeping McNabb very safe but they are also blocking better for Westbrook. That extra push will help him gain yards even against a tough NY Giants team.

Maurice Jones-Drew may be a long shot - I talked a bunch today about how I was worried about the mental state of the team. But the line is healthy and the matchup is very good. If Garrard can keep the ball moving through the air, MJD should benefit on the ground. I think he will get the chance to break into open space, use his speed to his advantage and have some long gains. This might be a little higher than many have him, but I am still looking for MJD to step forward the rest of the way. Hopefully I am right and our concerns about the emotional exhaustion of the team are unfounded.

Other thoughts -
You start #9 Chris Johnson every week regardless of matchup...... #13 Mewelde Moore gets the start with Parker hurt again and should have a good day.... #17 BenJarvus Green-Ellis will get another start with Morris and Jordan out and is looking pretty good...... I put Ray Rice as a cautious #18 - everyone is banged up there...... I think #26 Darren Sproles may get some garbage time against the Chiefs and could be a nice flex play....


Running backs

1. LaDainian Tomlinson, Chargers vs. Chiefs
2. Adrian Peterson, Vikings vs. Packers
3. Frank Gore, 49ers at Cardinals
4. Brian Westbrook, Eagles vs. Giants
5. Maurice Jones-Drew, Jaguars at Lions
6. Thomas Jones, Jets vs. Rams
7. Ronnie Brown, Dolphins vs. Seahawks
8. Michael Turner, Falcons vs. Saints
9. Chris Johnson, Titans at Bears
10. DeAngelo Williams, Panthers at Raiders
11. Tim Hightower, Cardinals vs. 49ers
12. Marshawn Lynch, Bills at Patriots
13. Mewelde Moore, Steelers vs. Colts
14. Brandon Jacobs, Giants at Eagles
15. Steve Slaton, Texans vs. Ravens
16. Matt Forté, Bears vs. Titans
17. BenJarvus Green-Ellis, Patriots vs. Bills
18. Ray Rice, Ravens at Texans
19. Deuce McAllister, Saints at Falcons
20. Jamaal Charles, Chiefs at Chargers
21. Kevin Smith, Lions vs. Jaguars
22. Kevin Faulk, Patriots vs. Bills
23. Joseph Addai, Colts at Steelers
24. Leon Washington, Jets vs. Rams
25. Jonathan Stewart, Panthers at Raiders
    
26. Darren Sproles, Chargers vs. Chiefs
27. Le'Ron McClain, Ravens at Texans
28. LenDale White, Titans at Bears
29. Justin Fargas, Raiders vs. Panthers
30. Julius Jones, Seahawks at Dolphins
31. Maurice Morris, Seahawks at Dolphins
32. Jerious Norwood, Falcons vs. Saints
33. Ricky Williams, Dolphins vs. Seahawks
34. Derrick Ward, Giants at Eagles
35. Fred Taylor, Jaguars at Lions
    
    

WR Rankings for Week 10

Again, as I said on the ESPN1230 show with Jake Stevens, I think Roddy White is now a top flight Fantasy (and NFL) WR and should be played pretty much regardless of matchup. Matt Ryan is going to have a very good day against the Saints depleted secondary and hewill look to White often - as he does all the time. The Saints have allowed 240+ yards per game, with 12 TDs to only 6 interceptions. White will easily get the seperation he needs to break free and will have an outstanding day.

Larry Fitzgerald vs Anquan Boldin is a debate a lot like 'which do I like better, chocolate ice cream or vanilla?' It splits the electorate pretty thoroughly but I say - WHO THE HELL CARES? IT'S FREAKING ICE CREAM - ENJOY! Seriously, both of these guys will have - and often do have - top flight Fantasy games. You have to be happy with either and I would be tempted to start both if you happened to have both. Fitz will undoubtedly get the yards and Boldin is a more sure red zone target. I think this week Fitz gets a TD and the yards, which bumps him up over 'Quan. But Boldin is a fantastic play as well. I don't know how the 49rs will come out this week but I do know that Warner will throw and there is enough love for both guys. Star tthem and enjoy your damned dessert.

I know Donald Driver (#19 ) woke up and found himself relevant last week, but Greg Jennings is the man in Green Bay, bar none. As I say in the Qb rankings, Rodgers will have to throw to win this game, what with his bad run game and the shaky Vikes secondary. And while he will occasionally grace other receivers and TEs with a bunch of catches, he always goes to his man, Jennings. If Rodgers is throwing and needs a big score (and he will do both) then Jennings is your man. Jennings has become a solid WR 1 most weeks and this will be a very good game for him. (Side note: they throw so much that I think Driver has his second good game in a row, hence the 19 ranking.)

Calvin 'I am Megatron' Johnson may have a new Qb this weekend in Culpepper and while C-Pepp is clearly not the same guy who tossed TDs to Moss way back when, he still has an arm. While he will nto be able to scramble as he used to and will find himself on his back, when he isn't picking turf out of his mouth, C-Pepp will use Johnson as often as he can and has an arm that might - just might - allow Megatron to get some seperation in a way he hasn't been able to with Orlovsky. Stanton makes him riskier but let's face it- Johnson will get it done even if it's a Juggs machine. They will have to throw against the Jags and I think Johnson will be able to burn that secondary regardless of QB.

Other Decepticon and Autobot-free thoughts -
I like #15 Muhsin Muhammad a ton this week and might have him ranked higher than just about anyone else - that matchup with the special teamer masquerading as a corner is going to be fantastic.... Repeat after me - you play #17 Matt Jones, until it's time to not play Matt Jones. Against Detroit? It's Dr. Rockso time. Felony possession or not I don't know what the NFL is doing and until they actually bench him, I won't. This week should be a big one KKKKYEEEEAH..... And yes, #18 Plaxico Burress is busy bitching his way out of the top 20 and is not a consistent - or reliable - fantasy option. I keep waiting for him to rebound and he keeps struggling.....

Wide receivers

1. Roddy White, Falcons vs. Saints
2. Larry Fitzgerald, Cardinals vs. 49ers
3. Greg Jennings, Packers at Vikings
4. Calvin Johnson, Lions vs. Jaguars
5. Anquan Boldin, Cardinals vs. 49ers
6. Andre Johnson, Texans vs. Ravens
7. Lee Evans, Bills at Patriots
8. Steve Smith, Panthers at Raiders
9. Bernard Berrian, Vikings vs. Packers
10. Marques Colston, Saints at Falcons
11. Randy Moss, Patriots vs. Bills
12. Jerricho Cotchery, Jets vs. Rams
13. Vincent Jackson, Chargers vs. Chiefs
14. Laveranues Coles, Jets vs. Rams
15. Muhsin Muhammad, Panthers at Raiders
16. Dwayne Bowe, Chiefs at Chargers
17. Matt Jones, Jaguars at Lions
18. Plaxico Burress, Giants at Eagles
19. Donald Driver, Packers at Vikings
20. Wes Welker, Patriots vs. Bills
21. Reggie Wayne, Colts at Steelers
22. Hines Ward, Steelers vs. Colts
23. Donnie Avery, Rams at Jets
24. Kevin Curtis, Eagles vs. Giants
25. Santonio Holmes, Steelers vs. Colts
26. Devery Henderson, Saints at Falcons
27. Chris Chambers, Chargers vs. Chiefs
28. Michael Jenkins, Falcons vs. Saints
29. DeSean Jackson, Eagles vs. Giants
30. Greg Camarillo, Dolphins vs. Seahawks
31. Isaac Bruce, 49ers at Cardinals
32. Derrick Mason, Ravens at Texans
33. Ted Ginn Jr., Dolphins vs. Seahawks
34. Torry Holt, Rams at Jets
35. Sidney Rice, Vikings vs. Packers


RBs come after lunch (west coast lunch).....

RB Rankings for Week 9

Brian Westbrook had 167 yards last week on the ground and added 42 via receptions. As tempting as Graham is, as good as Peterson is, I think Westy has a good day against a rush D that gives 121 yards per game on the ground and 6 TDs. Add to it the phenomenal matchup vs the pass D of the 'Hawks - know that Westbrook will be involved as always. He will have a tremendous opportunity in both phases of the game and I think he will top leagues again this week.

Speaking of Purple Jesus aka Adrian Peterson - the Texans have coughed up 11 ground TDs, second most in the league so far this season. They were better earlier in the season but the last three games have given up a total of 278 rushing yards top run games brought by the Bengals, Lions and Dolphins. Wait, those aren't Minny-like run offenses? Uh-oh! The Texans are getting lit up on the ground, and Peterson will be able to make plenty of plays against them this week. I think Frerrotte and Berrian will keep Houston honest and AP will tire them out all day.

How DOES one cram all that Graham? Well, you rank him third. Ok, bad joke (dated bad joke no less) but Earnest Graham is an excellent start this week. With Dunn banged up, Graham will get all the love in this run game this weekend against one of the worst defense in the league. On top of that, Gruden will not pull a Mangini and throw 40 times to 15 runs. Graham will get the ball often and do very well against the woeful Chiefs.

A terrible Lions defense will keep Matt Forte at the top of the rookie running back ranks this week - not only running the ball but catching it as well. Forte faces a defense ranked 31st, which can get run over by any back. Forte should have no problem running all over the Lions. Yes, they stumped Peterson - but that was pretty unusual. I don't expect a repeat, especially as Chicago is passing the ball well and Detroit will not be able to just focus on the run.

Finally is Michael Turner the Burner - perhaps not as high as some have him this week, I still like him as a play. Oakland has coughed up 556 rushing yards in their last 3 contests and have had plenty of bad games so far. Also, may I submit the 11 touchdowns they have allowed this season. I like Turner this week for both yardage and a TD - he's a guy you can start with confidence even if he has been a bit streaky this year.

Other thoughts -Willie Parker (34) may be playing, but I think he's no more than a light flex - Mewelde Moore (30) is pretty much the same. Until we sort out who is doing what, be careful.... Don't overthink the Leon Washington (28) stats from last week - only three carries is a flex back for a Fantasy team, not a RB2 unless you have to.... This may be the week Tim Hightower (17) takes the #1 gig over.... MJD (10) and Fred Taylor (23) both have valeu this week against a shoddy Bengals run D....

Running backs

1. Brian Westbrook, Eagles at Seahawks
2. Adrian Peterson, Vikings vs. Texans
3. Earnest Graham, Buccaneers at Chiefs
4. Matt Forté, Bears vs. Lions
5. Michael Turner, Falcons at Raiders
6. Ronnie Brown, Dolphins at Broncos
7. Marion Barber, Cowboys at Giants
8. Chris Johnson, Titans vs. Packers
9. Clinton Portis, Redskins vs. Steelers
10. Maurice Jones-Drew, Jaguars at Bengals
11. Marshawn Lynch, Bills vs. Jets
12. Brandon Jacobs, Giants vs. Cowboys
13. Steven Jackson, Rams vs. Cardinals
14. Thomas Jones, Jets at Bills
15. Willis McGahee, Ravens at Browns
16. LenDale White, Titans vs. Packers
17. Tim Hightower, Cardinals at Rams
18. Ryan Grant, Packers at Titans
19. Kevin Faulk, Patriots at Colts
20. Steve Slaton, Texans at Vikings
21. Edgerrin James, Cardinals at Rams
22. Michael Pittman, Broncos vs. Dolphins
23. Fred Taylor, Jaguars at Bengals
24. Ricky Williams, Dolphins at Broncos
25. Justin Fargas, Raiders vs. Falcons
26. Jamal Lewis, Browns vs. Ravens
27. Derrick Ward, Giants vs. Cowboys
28. Leon Washington, Jets at Bills
29. Dominic Rhodes, Colts vs. Patriots
30. Mewelde Moore, Steelers at Redskins
31. Kevin Smith, Lions at Bears
32. Julius Jones, Seahawks vs. Eagles
33. Cedric Benson, Bengals vs. Jaguars
34. Willie Parker, Steelers vs Redskins
35. Kolby Smith, Chiefs vs. Buccaneers

RB Rankings for Week 8

Clinton Portis has been having a monster season and somehow people still expect the wheels to come off at any minute. They won't, especially not this week. As bad as I said in the first two posts that Detroit's pass defense is, the run defense is just as bad if not worse. Portis should see as much success as Steve Slaton and Ahman did combined.

Yes, Frank Gore and the 49rs struggled against the Giants last week. But I don't think I need to point out that Seattle is nowhere near the Giants' league. While Seattle had a better week defensively than they have had of late, it's not the norm and Gore should bounce back. In the plus column will also be new couch Mike Singletary who I believe will work hard to make sure Gore - the marquee piece of the offense - gets his carries and that offensive line opens lanes for him and protects JT O'Sullivan. Just because he has kept Martz, don't think he'll let Martz let the QB get killed or the running back get stuffed again.

Steven Jackson is hampered a bit by a quadriceps injury and is listed as 'questionable' but I think he'll play and if he does, the Patriots will have a hard time containing him. While they have played well against the run, I think Jackson is playing too well to be contained and it seems as though the Rams have turned things around. If that's the case, Jackson is the key to keeping it going.

It's hard to know what LaDainian Tomlinson will do week to week, but reports are that his toe feels back to normal. Sure, the Saints can air it out, but the weather and the lousy pitch in London might make that tough so they won't just run away with the game. If Tomlinson is healthy, the Chargers need to get him back on track. The Saints are a middle of the pack rush defense and got beat up by the Panthers last week for 143 yards and a TD. I think the Chargers will run LT hard and Tomlinson will rise to the challenge.

I expected Thomas Jones to have a good season and it may be that he has finally started that process. Three TDs two weeks ago and a 159 yards last week. He can combien the tow (to some extent) against the team that is 32nd against the run and has allowed more yards and more TDs on the ground than any other franchise this year. The Jets might try to air the ball out a bit and get Favre's groove back, but they will definitely pound Thomas early and often. Kansas City is a phenomenal matchup for nearly any back and has the potential to vault them to the #1 fantasy RB spot for that week. I don't think Jones will do that but he will certainly do well in a game the Jets have to win after last week's debacle in Oakland.


Other thoughts - Is this Deuce McAllister's last hurrah for a while? That steroid rumor is bizarre. Still he should have a good game in the mud at Wembly this week with Bush out..... Brandon Jacobs is a stud sure, but I really, really hate this matchup.... LenDale White should benefit from a great matchup this week, but don't expect last week to happen again.... Benjarvus Green-Ellis is a guy I want to rank higher but we just have no read on him yet, though I have liked him since we profiled him on Draftguys.TV. Big weekend for him and potentially a great dark horse for the rest of the season.... Le’Ron McClain is another guy who feels like he should be higher, but has had a couple of dud games. If he shines this week and you can do it, you might want to move him.....


Running backs

1. Clinton Portis, Redskins at Lions
2. Frank Gore, 49ers vs. Seahawks
3. Steven Jackson, Rams at Patriots
4. LaDainian Tomlinson, Chargers vs. Saints
5. Thomas Jones, Jets vs. Chiefs
6. Maurice Jones-Drew, Jaguars vs. Browns
7. Chris Johnson, Titans vs. Colts
8. Brian Westbrook, Eagles vs. Falcons
9. Marshawn Lynch, Bills at Dolphins
10. Steve Slaton, Texans vs. Bengals
11. Earnest Graham, Buccaneers at Cowboys
12. Marion Barber, Cowboys vs. Buccaneers
13. Ronnie Brown, Dolphins vs. Bills
14. Willis McGahee, Ravens vs. Raiders
15. Michael Turner, Falcons at Eagles
16. Deuce McAllister, Saints vs. Chargers
17. Brandon Jacobs, Giants at Steelers
18. Jamal Lewis, Browns at Jaguars
19. LenDale White, Titans vs. Colts
20. Mewelde Moore, Steelers vs. Giants
    
21. Leon Washington, Jets vs. Chiefs
22. Edgerrin James, Cardinals at Panthers
23. Tim Hightower, Cardinals at Panthers
24. Julius Jones, Seahawks at 49ers
25. BenJarvus Green-Ellis, Patriots vs. Rams
26. Dominic Rhodes, Colts at Titans
27. Fred Taylor, Jaguars vs. Browns
28. Cedric Benson, Bengals at Texans
29. Jerious Norwood, Falcons at Eagles
30. Jonathan Stewart, Panthers vs. Cardinals
31. Maurice Morris, Seahawks at 49ers
32. DeAngelo Williams, Panthers vs. Cardinals
33. Le’Ron McClain, Ravens vs. Raiders
34. Ahman Green, Texans vs. Bengals
35. Justin Fargas, Raiders at Ravens

RB Rankings for Week 7

Here are the last of the rankings - time permitting I will have the TEs done later but a last minute emergency has kinda made it possible that won't happen.

As I said with the other rankings - time permitting, I will be doing a synopsis of these rankings later.

Running backs

1. Marion Barber, Cowboys at Rams
2. Clinton Portis, Redskins vs. Browns
3. Steve Slaton, Texans vs. Lions
4. Chris Johnson, Titans at Chiefs
5. Frank Gore, 49ers at Giants
6. Marshawn Lynch, Bills vs. Chargers
7. Brandon Jacobs, Giants vs. 49ers
8. LaDainian Tomlinson, Chargers at Bills
9. Steven Jackson, Rams vs. Cowboys
10. Adrian Peterson, Vikings at Bears
11. Thomas Jones, Jets at Raiders
12. Ryan Grant, Packers vs. Colts
13. Reggie Bush, Saints at Panthers
14. Mewelde Moore, Steelers at Bengals
15. LenDale White, Titans at Chiefs
16. Earnest Graham, Buccaneers vs. Seahawks
17. Matt Forte, Bears vs. Vikings
18. Larry Johnson, Chiefs vs. Titans
19. Dominic Rhodes, Colts at Packers
20. Ronnie Brown, Dolphins vs. Ravens
21. Jamal Lewis, Browns at Redskins
22. DeAngelo Williams, Panthers vs. Saints
23. Michael Pittman, Broncos at Patriots
24. Warrick Dunn, Buccaneers vs. Seahawks
25. Rudi Johnson, Lions at Texans
26. Jonathan Stewart, Panthers vs. Saints
27. Julius Jones, Seahawks at Buccaneers
28. Kevin Faulk, Patriots vs. Broncos
29. Le’Ron McClain, Ravens at Dolphins
30. Justin Fargas, Raiders vs. Jets
31. Cedric Benson, Bengals vs. Steelers
32. Ahman Green, Texans vs. Lions
33. Willis McGahee, Ravens at Dolphins
34. Derrick Ward, Giants vs. 49ers
35. Justin Fargas, Raiders at Jets

RB Rankings for Week 6

You might notice Adrian Peterson tops two lists of mine this week - I expect great things from you AP! Terrible things (for Lions fans) to be sure - but great!..... Clinton Portis will finally see both good yards and end zone celebrations in this game, even if it develops into the shootout some are predicting, Portis will get a ton of looks......Ronnie Brown: Fact Or Fiction, and we'll get a good look at that against the Texans this week. Let's see if a) the Wildcat still works and b) he can run if it doesn't. Somebody has to stop it, right?.......Frank Gore - even against a tough D - is a must start. The Eagles aren't looking like they are as tough as their ranking is....Marion Barber worked hard against a surprisingly stout middle of the field run defense. The Cards stopped Thomas Jones in New York and thwarted Marshawn Lynch, but the Dallas offense will not be stopped through the air, so Barber will have plenty of carries as well and probably the lead to protect.....

Also take note of Matt Forté, Steve Slaton and LeRon McClain - all have good matchups and should produce. This should also be one of Maurice Jones-Drew's best games yet and I think the start of a much better season for him.

Running backs

1. Adrian Peterson, Vikings vs. Lions
2. Clinton Portis, Redskins vs. Rams
3. Ronnie Brown, Dolphins at Texans
4. Frank Gore, 49ers vs. Eagles
5. Marion Barber, Cowboys at Cardinals
6. Brandon Jacobs, Giants at Browns
7. Reggie Bush, Saints vs. Raiders
8. LaDainian Tomlinson, Chargers vs. Patriots
9. Matt Forté, Bears at Falcons
10. Maurice Jones-Drew, Jaguars at Broncos
11. Correll Buckhalter, Eagles at 49ers
12. Steve Slaton, Texans vs. Dolphins
13. Steven Jackson, Rams at Redskins
14. Michael Turner, Falcons vs. Bears
15. Thomas Jones, Jets vs. Bengals
16. Earnest Graham, Buccaneers vs. Panthers
17. Julius Jones, Seahawks vs. Packers
18. Le’Ron McClain, Ravens at Colts
19. Edgerrin James, Cardinals vs. Cowboys
20. Jonathan Stewart, Panthers at Buccaneers
21. DeAngelo Williams, Panthers at Buccaneers
22. Ryan Grant, Packers at Seahawks
23. Joseph Addai, Colts vs. Ravens
24. Fred Taylor, Jaguars at Broncos
25. Felix Jones, Cowboys at Cardinals
26. Michael Pittman, Broncos vs. Jaguars
27. Jamal Lewis, Browns vs. Giants
    
28. Willis McGahee, Ravens at Colts
29. Tim Hightower, Cardinals vs. Cowboys
30. Justin Fargas, Raiders at Saints
    
31. Michael Bush, Raiders at Saints
32. Laurence Maroney, Patriots at Chargers
33. Warrick Dunn, Buccaneers vs. Panthers
34. Deuce McAllister, Saints vs. Raiders
35. Darren McFadden, Raiders at Saints

RB Rankings for Week 5

For the breakdown of some of the backs, scroll past the list.

Running backs

1. Marion Barber, Cowboys vs. Bengals
2. Adrian Peterson, Vikings at Saints
3. Frank Gore, 49ers vs. Patriots
4. LaDainian Tomlinson, Chargers at Dolphins
5. Steve Slaton, Texans vs. Colts
6. Matt Forté, Bears at Lions
7. Marshawn Lynch, Bills at Cardinals
8. Brian Westbrook, Eagles at Redskins
9. Joseph Addai, Colts at Texans
10. Michael Turner, Falcons at Packers
11. Clinton Portis, Redskins at Eagles
12. Chris Johnson, Titans at Ravens
13. Earnest Graham, Buccaneers at Broncos
14. Reggie Bush, Saints vs. Vikings
15. Larry Johnson, Chiefs at Panthers
16. Brandon Jacobs, Giants vs. Seahawks
17. Jonathan Stewart, Panthers vs. Chiefs
18. Ronnie Brown, Dolphins vs. Chargers
19. Maurice Jones-Drew, Jaguars vs. Steelers
20. Edgerrin James, Cardinals vs. Bills
21. Ryan Grant, Packers vs. Falcons
22. Julius Jones, Seahawks at Giants
23. DeAngelo Williams, Panthers vs. Chiefs
24. Felix Jones, Cowboys vs. Bengals
25. LenDale White, Titans at Ravens
26. Rudi Johnson, Lions vs. Bears
27. Selvin Young, Broncos vs. Buccaneers
28. Deuce McAllister, Saints vs. Vikings
29. Fred Taylor, Jaguars vs. Steelers
30. Chris Perry, Bengals at Cowboys
31. Laurence Maroney, Patriots at 49ers
32. Jerious Norwood, Falcons at Packers
33. Le’Ron McClain, Ravens vs.. Titans
34. Sammy Morris, Patriots at 49ers
35. Warrick Dunn, Buccaneers at Broncos

Marion Barber carried the ball eight times, while TO was targeted 17 and TO was complaining? Well, expect the Cowboys to serve both the master of practicality (run the ball more) and insanity (throw the ball to TO and hope he doesn't drop it) fully this week against an epically bad Bengals team. There will be plenty of love to go round and Barber will have a solid week against a D that will probably get out of his way as he runs towards the end zone.

Adrian Peterson is a guy who needs to find the end zone more regularly, though last weekend was just fine as far as I was concerned. The Saints' run D isn't steller and they have been allowing 122 yards per game. They have only given up 3 TDs so far this season and had a good game against Frank Gore last week. Am I worried? No, if anything Gore had an off game and I think that with Sedrick Ellis going down for a month or so, it will be tough for the Saints to come back with a second good game against a top runner. Also I do not expect the Vikes to be as far back at the end of the first half as the 49rs were, which hurt Gore overall.

Speaking of Frank Gore - for some reason folks are undervaluing him this week, as if last week was more than an aberration - or the Pats were still dominant. The Pats will not leap out to a near 21 point lead like the Saints did. As such, expect Gore to have a good amount of carries and while the Pats are not as bad as they looked in week 3, they have given up an average of 140 yards a game though the overall TD total was wierdly inflated by the Ronnie Brown plays last week. Are the Pats that confused at this point? One has to assume they will make adjustements for the 49rs game plan - but that won't stop Gore from doing soem damage on the ground.



LaDainian Tomlinson is finally healthy and while the defense he faces is tough, he'll find a way to score you points. With Phillip Rivers playing well though (save for last week), the defense will not be able to merely key upon LT. Still, how often do people shut LT down?

Sneaking into the top five is Steve Slaton against a D that got tore up by Taylor and Jones-Drew behind a trashed offensive line. Slaton put up good numbers against Tennessee and has shown a great nose for open space as well as an ability to break tackles and work for the shorter yards. Slaton will probably have about his best week this week, good timing during the bye weeks. He'll drop back to RB 2 for the most part after this, but he's a great start this week.

Other guys worth noting: Matt Forté is a great start as well against a terrible Detroit defense and he nearly snuck into the top 5. Forté will continue to be a steller value where you drafted him and I don't think Kevin Jones will cut into his production this year until near the end of the season if he burns out.

Brian Westbrook (8) appears healthy and though he faces a tough matchup, you start him. I have tailed him back production-wise this week but he will put up very good numbers this week and should be healthy throughout the game.

Reggie Bush (14) normally would reside much higher on the list but against a tough D, I knocked him back even though he will get good yards through the air as well. I think he will find himself pretty contained for he most part.

Larry Johnson (15) was great last week, but the Panthers will make it tough on him to repeat and may jump out far enough ahead to make him less of a factor as the game goes.

That's all for this week - if you have questions abotu the rankings or your lineup, feel free to email me at thunderingblurb(a)gmail.com. I will turn them around asap AND will be here all weekend updating various player injuries and doing college reviews as well.

WR Rankings for Week 5

Again, check out the breakdown of the top 5 below the list.

Wide receivers

1. Brandon Marshall, Broncos vs. Buccaneers
2. Reggie Wayne, Colts at Texans
3. Terrell Owens, Cowboys vs. Bengals
4. Larry Fitzgerald, Cardinals vs. Bills
5. Steve Smith, Panthers vs. Chiefs
6. Calvin Johnson, Lions vs. Bears
7. Greg Jennings, Packers vs. Falcons
8. Andre Johnson, Texans vs. Colts
9. Randy Moss, Patriots at 49ers
10. Chris Chambers, Chargers at Dolphins
11. T.J. Housmandzadeh, Bengals at Cowboys
12. Lee Evans, Bills at Cardinals
13. Lance Moore, Saints vs. Vikings
14. Roy Williams, Lions vs. Bears
15. Roddy White, Falcons at Packers
16. Santana Moss, Redskins at Eagles
17. Dwayne Bowe, Chiefs at Panthers
18. Santonio Holmes, Steelers at Jaguars
19. Hines Ward, Steelers at Jaguars
20. Amani Toomer, Giants vs. Seahawks
21. Anthony Gonzalez, Colts at Texans
22. Wes Welker, Patriots at 49ers
23. Bernard Berrian, Vikings at Saints
24. Vincent Jackson, Chargers at Dolphins
25. DeSean Jackson, Eagles vs. Redskins
26. Steve Breaston, Cardinals vs. Bills
27. Marvin Harrison, Colts at Texans
28. Bobby Engram, Seahawks at Giants
29. Derrick Mason, Ravens vs. Titans
30. Kevin Walter, Texans vs. Colts
31. Chad Ocho Cinco, Bengals at Cowboys
32. Muhsin Muhammad, Panthers vs. Chiefs
33. Eddie Royal, Broncos vs. Buccaneers
34. Isaac Bruce, 49ers vs. Patriots
35. Donald Driver, Packers vs. Falcons

Brandon Marshall is tied with Reggie Bush for the lead in receptions and that's with one less game under his belt. As I mentioned in my breakdown and ranking for Jay Cutler, the gambling nature of the Buccaneer secondary leaves them open to big plays and that's what Marshall specializes in. He will lead the Broncs in targets again and put up his usual spectacular numbers. Consider last week's 77 yards a burp and know he will eb back to 100+ yards with ease this week.

Reggie Wayne was doing just fine even when Manning struggled and while in week three he didn't see the end zone, he's been very consistent otherwise. He's the #1 in Indy and Manning makes sure he gets the ball often. Wayne faces a secondary that has coughed up a TD a game and will probably be fairly overmatched by the full suite of weapons Indy will bring to bear. Even if the Colts get the run game moving early, Wayne will still get his.

Terrell Owens - oh TO, you don't understand how the media loves you so. The walking sound bite will get what he wants - plenty of targets and one can only hope he catches most of them. Even though I fully expect Marion Barber to get a ton of carries against a terrible run defense, Owens will get enough looks to make him happy. Plus a win - wins make TO happiest of all. But expect a few big plays and a TD from Owens this weekend.

All Kurt Warner's targets now belong to LARRY FITZGERALD BWAHAHAHAHA!. *ahem* Sorry. Larry Fitz once again finds himself as the only man standing and one might worry that the Bills could double Fitz up without Boldin. However Steve Breaston (26) will do more than enough to keep that from happening. Fitzgerald will be able to go long and score against even a tough defense. The Bills may make things tough and might hammer Warner a bunch behind the line, but Fitzgerald will still get his and put up good points this weekend.

I think this is our first Steve Smith top 5 ranking on the Blurb. The Chiefs let up a ton of yards even when they win like they did in Denver. They aren't horrible, but they are decidedly average. Smith has the most targets on the team the last two games and is now getting his speed up, so to speak. He will break through for his first big game against a Chiefs defense that is primed for letting it happen.

Others of note - Lance Moore is the number 1 in Nawlins right now and will keep the number 2 job even when Colston comes back. Looking over the last game today i came away impressed and while the Vikings will get after Brees alot, I think Moore will be able to burn them long a few times. Hence his sudden #13 ranking.

I donj't much care what #31 Ocho Cinco wants to kiss - I think it's going to be a long and quiet day for the player formerly known as Chad Johnson and the only thing he will end up kissing will be his top fantasy staus goodbye for the rest of the season.

I would also like to warn you about Greg Jennings - he will still be a main target even for Matt Flynn but Flynn is not ready for prime time and you can drop Jennings at least 5-7 spots on the list from 7.

QB Rankings for Week 5

For commentary scroll to the bottom of the entry - I figured people might want to read the list first....

Quarterbacks

1. Drew Brees, Saints vs. Vikings
2. Jay Cutler, Broncos vs. Buccaneers
3. Tony Romo, Cowboys vs. Bengals
4. Peyton Manning, Colts at Texans
5. Philip Rivers, Chargers at Dolphins
6. Donovan McNabb, Eagles vs. Redskins
7. Eli Manning, Giants vs. Seahawks
8. Kurt Warner, Cardinals vs. Bills
9. Jake Delhomme, Panthers vs. Chiefs
10. Trent Edwards, Bills at Cardinals
11. Aaron Rodgers, Packers vs. Falcons (if starting – don’t start Flynn)
12. Matt Hasselbeck, Seahawks at Giants
13. Matt Schaub, Texans vs. Colts
14. Ben Roethlisberger, Steelers at Jaguars
15. Brian Griese, Buccaneers at Broncos
16. Jason Campbell, Redskins at Eagles
17. David Garrard, Jaguars vs. Steelers
18. Kyle Orton, Bears at Lions
19. Gus Frerotte, Vikings at Saints
20. J.T. O’Sullivan, 49ers vs. Patriots
21. Jon Kitna, Lions vs. Bears
22. Chad Pennington, Dolphins vs. Chargers
23. Carson Palmer, Bengals at Cowboys
24. Damon Huard, Chiefs at Panthers
25. Matt Cassel, Patriots at 49ers
26. Matt Ryan, Falcons at Packers
27. Kerry Collins, Titans at Ravens
28. Joe Flacco, Ravens vs. Titans

Before getting too far into the list, I have to say I think the top five or so QBs this week are very close. It could be less than three points difference from #1 to #5. The matchups for them are all good - most of them flat out GREAT - and they all have the chance at that number one spot. If you happen to be blessed by the football gods to have more than one of the top 5, great. But if you have just one of these top five like most of us mortals, you will be ecstatic.

Drew Brees has the tougher of the five matchups but only marginally so. As I mentioned on ESPN 1230 this morning (and that will eb posted tonight I swear) he has thrown for more than 3oo yards for three out of the first four games. The Vikes give up a touch over 200 yds per game but where they have really excelled is in TDs - just two allowed so far. And I know, you'rs saying 'AG, how can he be tops on the list if Minny can stop the TDs?' Simply put, Drew Brees will have to throw - and throw often. And I think he will find Reggie Bush, Lance Moore or maybe Billy Miller in the the end zone this week. Yes the Vikes are stingy with the TDs but Brees will find that seam, that opening and I think get not just one, but maybe a pair of TDs this week. He may have to as Peterson will probably run all over the Saints D this weekend. They may be catching up all day.

Jay Cutler could be involved in yet another shootout this weekend. This may be common until Denver starts playign good defense. Just a thought. Regardless, I love the weapons this guy has and he has the skills to utilize them to perfection. Now, Tampa is a solid D - they rank 8th in sacks (11) and tied for the league lead in INTs with 8. But they gamble ALOT and that will get them burned for some big plays by Marshall and maybe even Royal this weekend. It won't be an easy day but Cutler will have to throw - and should have success - against a D that has given up 200+ yards a game and 7 TDs so far.

The thing that most keeps Romo from being #1 or 2 is the fact that Cinci is a horrorshow against the run. They don't just suck, they also blow. Couple that with the fact that the Cowboys will not let another game go by where Marion Barber carries a ridiculous eight times and Felix Jones a big fat donut. They will run and run often and with great success. But the other side of this is the big TO thing this week. I think that - regardless of how good the run game goes - they will throw the ball and since there is EVERY chance TO will not be covered well, TO will getwhat he wants - many, many looks. That along with the usual Witten tosses and an emerging Miles Austin translate to a great day for Romo, running game or no.

See, here's the point I was making earlier -Peyton Manning has a fantastic matchup, a fully restocked and healthy Oline and a great receiving core. And he's fourth on the list. Doesn't mean he isn't in for a great start though. Houston has allowed four passing TDs in only three games, have only three sacks and only one INT. Manning could spend the day carving up this secondary and the only thing that could hold him back might be getting Joseph Addai back on track against an equally good matchup.

The Dolphins aren't as good as they were against the Pats. Now, the question is, are they as bad as they were the prior games? They've coughed up six TDs so far this season and are giving up 227 yds per game through the air. Also, I just don't think they have the guys to cover Chambers, Jackson and most importantly Antonio Gates. They cannot cover those guys and contain Tomlinson at the same time. Rivers had an off game last week, but will get back on track this week in Miami.

The biggest questions as of press time are: Will Aaron Rodgers play? Will Ben Roethlisberger? Big Ben (#14) only did a limited practice today and is now officially listed as 'Questionable'. He's been having to take injections to get through practice. He will try to make this game but I am worried again about how effective he will be and I have dropped him a little from where I had him this morning. He could do well against a 'meh' secondary. But a healthier guy would be a better option for you if you had one.

Aaron Rodgers didn't practice today to 'get Matt Flynn the chance to get acclimated'. Gotta say while McCarthy is saying they will watch Rodgers in warm-ups and I am on record as saying I worry Rodgers will play no matter HOW hurt he is to shake the injury label, it sounds like McCarthy is not too confident in Rodgers' ability to play Sunday. I have him ranked 11 if he DOES play as the matchup is good, but he's very risky. At least we'll know first thing if he will play as Green Bay is playing in the first set of games - I will keep you posted Sunday morning but my advice is to make sure you have an alternative to him ready to go. I am feeling the answer will be NO come Sunday.

Another place Sigmund and I differed on last night was Griese vs Kitna if I recall correctly. Kitna may need to throw alot but I think the Bears buckle down hard on Kitna and I am worried he may not finish the game. Griese has a great matchup against a secondary that is 31st in the league and gives up the 276 yards per game, have only one INT and only six sacks. Griese makes mistakes to be sure - 3 picks per game over the last few matchups. I think he does better this week. And I think Kitna struggles. Hence Kitna at 21 and Griese at 15.

Now watch both QBs end up dead last on the day... More ranks later.

Don't Bench Peterson - RB Rankings for Week 4

I mentioned on the Daily News Stampede that we would talk about Adrian 'Purple Jesus' Peterson and then forgot with all the other news. I know the matchup is tough but -
DON'T. BENCH. PETERSON. Houston ran well against them last week (Slaton topped 100yds), Peterson is healthy and he can bust a huge run at any time. Don't bench him UNLESS you have any of the six guys ahead of him - and even then run him as your #2. And just how the heck did you get one of those other backs anyway? (well, Reggie Bush I can see....)

Onto the rankings --

In many leagues, Reggie Bush has topped their rankings so far this year. PPR or not, the yardage totals he has put up have been impressive. This week he is the offense and Brees will throw to him a ton. Bush's value is not as a between the tackles RB - in part because the Saints have not blocked for the run very well. The 49r defense is better than you think - but Bush is a threat to bust a long run on a screen pass and I think he will put up very good numbers as the Saints put up a lot of yards to try and win with a shaky defense.

On the other side of the field is Frank Gore - Gore has flourished again and reminded people just how good he is. The Saints are bad against the pass which means JT O'Sullivan & company will throw more than run BUT Gore, like Bush, can bust a big play at any time and Gore has been used in the pass game enough to give him good value even when they are not running as much. The Saints run D is also shaky (22nd in the league) so Gore is a great bet to play well this weekend.

Tomlinson looks healthy and that's a good thing for his owners. The Raiders are middling against the run but have given up five ground TDs so far. Tomlinson was shaky last week save for the TD looks but will be closer to 100% and will put up good numbers and at least a TD against the Raiders. The Chargers will grab them by the throat and not let go - so even if Rivers throws effectively - and he will - LT will get his.

'Dis Mah Son' as Cecil calls him, has a prime matchup against the Rams this weekend and Lynch will take advantage of it. St Louis is dead last in defense and gives up 180+ yards a game on the ground. The only thing keeping him from maybe being first or second on this list is the insistence of Dick Jauron in using Fred Jackson to the extent he does. I expect great things from Lynch this week - or if you are a Rams fan - great and terrible things as he runs your team into the ground.

Felix Jones has been great so far - everything the Cowboys have hoped for. Marion Barber has been even better. Barber has compiled very good totals his first three weeks and against a Redskins defense that is middle of the road vs the run and give over 100yds per game on the ground, Barber will continue his winning ways. Despite the fact that Washington has only given up a pair of touchdowns on the ground, I think Barber will find the end zone again this week. It will be a dogfight game - always is with NFC East teams - and Barber will step up to bat.

You will notice that #15 is a combined ranking for Westbrook and Buckhalter - as it's a GTD I split the difference and ranked the position for the team. I think Buck will probably put up at the 15 rankings here - whereas Westy will probably do better if he gets the start. But with the doubt, I placed them a little farther back - also the run D in Chicago is tough, though in part because you can throw on them all day and that's what McNabb will do. It may limit Buck a bit as Westbrook sees more passes than Buckhalter usually does. (Despite the nice catch and run last week)

Chris Johnson (16) is a tough play that I still say you might have to go with him due to upside and big play ability. Ryan Grant (14) is healthy and that's great - should be very productive going forward as the oline is finally getting it's game on. McFadden (26) has a toe owie still and that is worrying me since Kiffin says it is bothering him VERY much. I would rather be cautious if possible than see Mike Bush steal all my carries.

Running Backs

1. Reggie Bush, Saints vs. 49ers
2. Frank Gore, 49ers at Saints
3. LaDainian Tomlinson, Chargers at Raiders
4. Marshawn Lynch, Bills at Rams
5. Marion Barber, Cowboys vs. Redskins
6. Clinton Portis, Redskins at Cowboys
7. Adrian Peterson, Vikings at Titans
8. Maurice Jones-Drew, Jaguars vs. Texans
9. Steven Jackson, Rams vs. Bills
10. Matt Forte, Bears vs. Eagles
11. Michael Turner, Falcons at Panthers
12. Jamal Lewis, Browns at Bengals
13. Larry Johnson, Chiefs vs. Broncos
14. Ryan Grant, Packers at Buccaneers
15. Brian Westbrook/Correll Buckhalter, Eagles at Bears
16. Chris Johnson, Titans vs. Vikings
17. Chris Perry, Bengals vs. Browns
18. Felix Jones, Cowboys vs. Redskins
19. Earnest Graham, Buccaneers vs. Packers
20. Fred Taylor, Jaguars vs. Texans
21. Thomas Jones, Jets vs. Cardinals
22. Steve Slaton, Texans at Jaguars
23. Edgerrin James, Cardinals at Jets
24. Jonathan Stewart, Panthers vs. Falcons
25. Selvin Young, Broncos at Chiefs
26. Darren McFadden, Raiders vs. Chargers
27. Pierre Thomas, Saints vs. 49ers
28. Michael Pittman, Broncos at Chiefs
29. Rashard Mendenhall, Steelers vs. Ravens
30. DeAngelo Williams, Panthers vs. Falcons
31. LenDale White, Titans vs. Vikings
32. Fred Jackson, Bills at Rams
33. Willis McGahee, Ravens at Steelers
34. Tim Hightower, Cardinals at Jets
35. Le’Ron McClain, Ravens at Steelers

RB Rankings for Week 3

So to lead, let's catch up - as I reported earlier, Adrian Peterson is Questionable for Sunday and likely a Game Time Decision (cue creepy music).

Tomlinson isn't much better - in fact it's worse. Tomlinson practiced today but will likely be Questionable as well, as it was a limited practice. He reportedly looked good in individual drills during the early portion of practice. Meanwhile Chargers beat writer said on NFLN that Darren Sproles will get most of the carries Monday night - LT may only get as little as 10.

Based on that, LT is dropping tremendously in my rankings and in many cases, you will be in a spot where you have to start someone else and bench Tomlinson. I'll keep you posted but it's grim. He's very far down - for him - at 18. Sproles has leapt up to 19 - and he may be worth more. The Jets D isn't easy money but it's not exactly stout. But as I don't know how the split really will go, I'm not expecting huge numbers.

Frank Gore faces an awful Lions defense and will catch a bunch of passes as well. He should put up tremendous numbers and look like the feature back many of us have been saying he is.

Brian Westbrook faces a tough defense, but Westy will get his, both through the air and on the ground. In fact, with rookie DeSean Jackson playing as well as he is, some pressure will be taken of Westbrook and he might start finding more room to work. Despite a tough D, Westbrook will still put up his points.

The Bengals run defense is awful and Brandon Jacobs will feast upon a run defense that has allowed an average of 203 rushing yards per game, with 3 rushing scores allowed. The Titans went and ran all over them last week, compiling 177 and a TD on the ground last week. Should be a good day for Jacobs - and Bradshaw and Ward will get some love as well, though they may be riskier starts.

Marion Barber sees a defense that has allowed an average of 118 yards per game so far, though they are not surrendering touchdowns. Barber will be a huge portion of this offense though and that includes receptions. With him catching the ball well, his total points will be top notch, even if not all of them come on the ground.

Finally, Clinton Portis (after a war of words on a Washington Radio program) will take his frustration out on an Arizona defense which is ok but not great. They were beaten up by Frank Gore (108 yards, 1TD) but stifled Ricky Williams (72, 1TD). Still the pair of touchdowns feels like a good sign that Portis will see the end zone and continue his good work on the field. Washington's offense seems to be gaining steam and Portis is the engine that makes it go. And he'll have it hitting on all cylinders as the Redskins work to kill the clock and keep the vaunted Cardinal pass attack off the field.

Running backs

1. Frank Gore, 49ers vs. Lions
2. Brian Westbrook, Eagles vs. Steelers
3. Brandon Jacobs, Giants vs. Bengals
4. Marion Barber, Cowboys at Packers
5. Clinton Portis, Redskins vs. Cardinals
6. Marshawn Lynch, Bills vs. Raiders
7. Adrian Peterson, Vikings vs. Panthers
8. Steven Jackson, Rams at Seahawks
9. Michael Turner, Falcons vs. Chiefs
10. Chris Johnson, Titans vs. Texans
11. Reggie Bush, Saints at Bronco
12. Julius Jones, Seahawks vs. Rams
13. Willie Parker, Steelers at Eagles
14. Ernest Graham, Buccaneers at Bears
15. Darren McFadden, Raiders at Bills
16. Maurice Jones-Drew, Jaguars at Colts
17. Matt Forté, Bears vs. Buccaneers
18. LaDainian Tomlinson, Chargers vs. Jets
19. Darren Sproles, Chargers vs. Jets
20. Joseph Addai, Colts vs. Jaguars
21. Edgerrin James, Cardinals at Redskins
22. Larry Johnson, Chiefs at Falcons
23. Thomas Jones, Jets at Chargers
24. LenDale White, Titans vs. Texans
25. Jamal Lewis, Browns at Ravens
26. Ryan Grant, Packers vs. Cowboys
27. Derrick Ward, Giants vs. Bengals
28. Jonathan Stewart, Panthers at Vikings
29. Fred Taylor, Jaguars at Colts
30. Kevin Smith, Lions at 49ers
31. Chester Taylor, Vikings vs. Panthers
32. Chris Perry, Bengals at Giants
33. Derrick Ward, Giants vs. Bengals
34. Laurence Maroney, Patriots vs. Dolphins
35. DeAngelo Williams, Panthers at Vikings

RB Rankings for Week 2

I am hard pressed to find a reason to not have Peterson on top of this list. Even if Indy makes adjustments based on last week's debacle where they made Matt Forte look like a Hall of Fame RB, Peterson and that O-line will probably tear them up anyway. Add to it that Manning looks shaky and is still (as of press time) without C Jeff Saturday and it's unlikely the Colts will run away and hide, keeping AP on the bench as Jackson needs to throw. AP should have a big day. Tomlinson's toe - as I said on EXPN 1230 today - is unlikley to keep him from playing and while it could hold him back, I don't think it will. The Chargers need him carrying the ball a lot to get the offense running this week. Westbrook will face more issues with Dallas than St. Louis, but he's going to be good for plenty of points as he always is when healthy. The only thing that worries me about the guy behind him - Jacobs - is if someoen else gets hot first he could see carries drop. But the matchup is phenomenal and based on last week, he's still the man. Expect a huge day. Rounding out the top 5 will be Frank Gore - Marshawn Lynch had 76 yards on the ground, a TD and another 18 yards in receptions as well. Gore blew up last week with 96 yards and a touch on the ground and another 55 through the air. And that was with Arizona controlling the clock like Scrooge McDuck does his Money Bank. Seattle is likely to let Gore go nuts, although he probably won't repeat last week's success as Seattle will have less problems with O'Sullivan and the still formign WR core of SF than they did with Trent Edwards and Company. Still, a great matchup for a great back.

Don't expect Matt Forte to blow up against Carolina like he did against Indy. Not a terrible start, but no more than a #2 or flex. Ditto Michael Turner - althoguh if Turner succeeds against the Bucs, he's a good bet to crack my top 10 very soon. Steven Jackson has slipped a bunch in my rankings - that O-line and Bulger look horrid and while he will get his, the Giants will make his day very tough and I expect his numbers to suffer. Joe Addai is super low - I think he will rebound soon but not this week. The offense in Indy needs Saturday back and Manning needs another week to get comfortable. Minnesota played worse D than expected last week, but I think they bounce back here. Addai normally is a top 10 back and will be again, but not this week. Please note the only Denver back on this list is Selvin Young. And even that's a crapshoot - as we were reminded last week, DEN RB is a confusing befuddling enigma wrapped in a headache. You can start any one of them and you might be pleasently surprised. More likely, you'll just throw things at the screen. I have replaced Young in multiple leagues with guys like Chris Johnson (#17), Thomas Jones (#16), Jamal Lewis (#23 in a tough matchup) and even undependible Laurence Maroney (#21).

I say save the Advil and find another back.

Running backs

1. Adrian Peterson, Vikings vs. Colts
2. LaDainian Tomlinson, Chargers at Broncos
3. Brian Westbrook, Eagles at Cowboys
4. Brandon Jacobs, Giants at Rams
5. Frank Gore, 49ers at Seahawks
6. Marion Barber, Cowboys vs. Eagles
7. Willie Parker, Steelers at Browns
8. Clinton Portis, Redskins vs. Saints
9. Edgerrin James, Cardinals vs. Dolphins
10. Marshawn Lynch, Bills at Jaguars
11. Steven Jackson, Rams vs. Giants
12. Ryan Grant, Packers at Lions
13. Reggie Bush, Saints at Redskins
14. Matt Forte, Bears at Panthers
15. Michael Turner, Falcons at Buccaneers
16. Thomas Jones, Jets vs. Patriots
17. Chris Johnson, Titans at Bengals
18. Joseph Addai, Colts at Vikings
19. Larry Johnson, Chiefs vs. Raiders
20. Earnest Graham, Buccaneers vs. Falcons
21. Laurence Maroney, Patriots at Jets
22. Julius Jones, Seahawks vs. 49ers
23. Jamal Lewis, Browns vs. Steelers
24. DeAngelo Williams, Panthers vs. Bears
25. LenDale White, Titans at Bengals
26. Jonathan Stewart, Panthers vs. Bears
27. Justin Fargas, Raiders at Chiefs
28. Maurice Jones-Drew, Jaguars vs. Bills
29. Chris Perry, Bengals vs. Titans
30. Selvin Young, Broncos vs. Chargers
31. Ricky Williams, Dolphins at Cardinals
32. Chester Taylor, Vikings vs. Colts
33. Kevin Smith, Lions vs. Packers
34. Steve Slaton, Texans vs. Ravens
35. Felix Jones, Cowboys vs. Eagles

WRs and TEs later. Questions or comments, feel free to send them to ThunderingBlurb@gmail.com.

RB Rankings for Week 1

Here it is guys - there will be QBs and WRs later today in some order - probably one in the West Coast afternoon, one in the evening.

I put up the top 35 Rbs here - yes there are more backs you can plug in - but once you get past here, it tends to be really shaky. If you need the top 40 or 5o, leave a comment or email me at thunderingblurb@gmail.com. But this week, there are 35.

I didn't have these done prior to the game last night, so I pulled Portis and Jacobs from the rankings - when we hit consistent Thursday games, players will be back in for those, but this week we didn't make it under the wire and it seemed less useful to show you where I had players who cannot be played anymore.

1. LaDainian Tomlinson, Chargers vs. Panthers
2. Brian Westbrook, Eagles vs. Rams
3. Adrian Peterson, Vikings at Packers
4. Marion Barber, Cowboys at Browns
5. Marshawn Lynch, Bills vs. Seahawks
6. Joseph Addai, Colts vs. Bears
7. Steven Jackson, Rams at Eagles
8. Frank Gore, 49ers vs. Cardinals
9. Maurice Jones-Drew, Jaguars at Titans
10. Earnest Graham, Buccaneers at Saints
11. Edgerrin James, Cardinals at 49ers
12. Laurence Maroney, Patriots vs. Chiefs
13. Thomas Jones, Jets at Dolphins
14. Ricky Williams, Dolphins vs. Jets
15. Larry Johnson, Chiefs at Patriots
16. Willie Parker, Steelers vs. Texans
17. Reggie Bush, Saints vs. Buccaneers
18. Michael Turner, Falcons vs. Lions
19. Matt Forte, Bears vs Colts
20. Chris Perry, Bengals at Ravens
21. Selvin Young, Broncos at Raiders
22. Fred Taylor, Jaguars at Titans
23. Kevin Smith, Lions at Falcons
24. Ryan Grant, Packers vs. Vikings
25. Ray Rice, Ravens vs. Bengals
26. LenDale White, Titans vs. Jaguars
27. Jamal Lewis, Browns vs. Cowboys
28. Chris Johnson, Titans vs. Jags
29. Darren McFadden, Raiders vs. Broncos
30. DeAngelo Williams, Panthers at Chargers
31. Jerious Norwood, Falcons vs. Lions
32. Maurice Morris, Seahawks at Bills
33. Rashard Mendenhall, Steelers vs. Texans
34. Julius Jones, Seahawks at Bills
35. Jonathan Stewart, Panthers vs Chargers

So there it is - the first of the rankings for today - more later on as the day comes.