RB rankings for week 17

Thats it for now - I'm going to go collapse in bed and watch Dark Knight and drink some soup. I love colds, don't you? Maybe it's a perfect excuse to sit in bed and watch football all tomorrow!

You can email me if you wish and I will try to get back to you when I emerge from my coma!

Running backs

1. Michael Turner
2. Brian Westbrook
   
3. DeAngelo Williams
4. LaDainian Tomlinson
   
5. Adrian Peterson
   
6. Matt Forte
7. Ryan Grant
   
8. Thomas Jones
   
9. Steven Jackson
10. Tashard Choice
11. Steve Slaton
    
12. Kevin Smith
    
13. Maurice Jones-Drew
14. Maurice Morris
    
15. Willie Parker
    
16. Cedric Benson
    
17. Sammy Morris
18. Pierre Thomas/Deuce McAllister (Injury concerns for PT)
19. Warrick Dunn
20. Clinton Portis
21. Ronnie Brown
22. Larry Johnson
23. LeRon McClain
    
24. Marshawn Lynch
    
25. Darren McFadden
26. Tatum Bell
27. Fred Jackson
    
28. Frank Gore
29. Cadillac Williams
30. Derrick Ward
31. Leon Washington
    
32. Tim Hightower
33. Jamal Lewis
34. Chad Simpson
35. Justin Fargas
    
36. Jonathan Stewart
    
37. Chester Taylor
38. Ricky Williams
39. Willis McGahee
40. Mewelde Moore

WR Rankings for week 17

Here are the WRs - RBs in a little while.

Wide Receiver

1. Steve Smith (CAR)
2. Andre Johnson
3. Marques Colston
4. Roddy White
5. Larry Fitzgerald
6. Calvin Johnson
7. Reggie Wayne
8. Vincent Jackson
9. Greg Jennings
10. Brandon Marshall
11. Derrick Mason
12. Randy Moss
13. T.J. Houshmandzadeh
14. DeSean Jackson
15. Antonio Bryant
16. Terrell Owens
17. Wes Welker
18. Eddie Royal
19. Hines Ward
20. Santana Moss
21. Jerricho Cotchery
22. Torry Holt
23. Domenik Hixon
24. Donald Driver
25. Santonio Holmes
26. Dwayne Bowe
27. Anquan Boldin
28. Lee Evans
29. Bernard Berrian
30. Kevin Walter
31. Muhsin Muhammad
32. Anthony Gonzalez
33. Braylon Edwards
34. Isaac Bruce
35. Laveranues Coles
36. Mark Clayton
37. Dennis Northcutt
38. Donnie Avery
39. Davone Bess
40. Deion Branch
41. Devin Hester
42. Steve Breaston
43. Bobby Engram
44. Justin Gage
45. Bryant Johnson

QB rankings for Week 17

Due to this loverly cold I have, I'm getting this list out late and with no description. I will say that this a more a list of stable players than a list of guys I expect to go for 300+ yards and 4 TDs. I also think despite not changing the gameplan for Brees hitting Marino's record he will have to throw alot. With Pierre Thomas a little banged up, he'll need to. Rodgers will also be a stable start especially as the run game for the Pack hasn't been steller. Rivers, McNabb, Cutler - all have something to play for and can throw the ball, which seperates them from guys like Favre, Orton or Edwards who have struggled in the pass game or are just playing out the string.

Quarterbacks

1. Drew Brees – Saints vs Panthers
2. Aaron Rodgers - Packers vs Lions
3. Philip Rivers - Chargers vs Broncos
4. Donovan McNabb - Eagles vs Cowboys
5. Jay Cutler - Broncos at Chargers
6. Matt Schaub - Texans vs Bears
7. Matt Ryan - Falcons vs Rams
8. Chad Pennington - Dolphins at Jets
9. Matt Cassel - Patriots at Bills
10. Seneca Wallace - Seahawks at Cardinals
11. Shaun Hill – 49rs vs Redskins
12. Ben Roethlisberger - Steelers vs Browns
13. Kurt Warner - Cardinals vs Seahawks
14. Tony Romo - Cowboys at Eagles
15. Jake Delhomme - Panthers at Saints
16. Jeff Garcia - Bucs vs Raiders
17. Tarvaris Jackson - Vikings vs Giants
18. Tyler Thigpen - Chiefs at Bengals
19. Joe Flacco - Ravens vs Jaguars
20. Eli Manning - Giants at Vikings
21. Kyle Orton - Bears at Texans
22. Brett Favre - Jets vs Dolphins
23. Ryan Fitzpatrick - Bengals vs Chiefs
24. Trent Edwards - Bills vs Patriots
25. Jason Campbell - Redskins at 49rs
26. David Garrard - Jaguars at Ravens
27. Dan Orlovsky - Lions at Packers
28. Bruce Gradkowski - Browns at Steelers
29. Peyton Manning - Colts vs Titans
30. Marc Bulger - Rams at Falcons
31. JaMarcus Russell - Raiders at Bucs
32. Kerry Collins - Titans at Colts
33. David Carr – Giants at Vikings

RB Rankings for Week 16

Like with the Wide Receivers, I added some backs to the list for Championship week.

I know I am not remotely alone in ranking Pierre Thomas as the number one back this week. I get that. But I have to agree with the group-think this week - and I swear have had Thomas in the top three for this week since Reggie Bush went down and even prior to that I thought he was due for a big game. Now the Brees/Saints will throw for sure. But Thomas is on fire the last two weeks and looked very good with a full load against the Bears. The pass game will keep the Lions honest and this should lock a job with the Saints for Thomas in 2009.

Brian Westbrook had been torching opposing defenses until last week, where he came back down to earth neither breaking 100 total yards nor scoring a touchdown. He also lacked carries - the prior two weeks he had carried the rock more than 20 times each and he should see that number of carries and touches this week. Washington's D has fallen to pieces and have allowed 361 yards on the ground over the last the weeks.

It's about time, but Steven Jackson says he is finally ready for a breakout game. Aside from mocking him for the fact that anyone's breakout game comes in week 16, much less a vet like Jackson - I think he's got something here and is primed for a really great day and is coming off a pretty darned good performance against Seattle. It's just in time for your Fantasy Championship and he should be worth that first round pick you spent if he can win you that trophy.

Despite being fourth on the list, Adrian Peterson is driven for a rushing title and he will put forth his usual great effort again this week against a rush defense that has allowed 120 yds per game and allowed 15 TDs during the season. They played well against Tampa Bay but overall have struggled against the run the last month or so. Peterson is a must start this week and should put forth a very good start for your Championship lineup.

For a little while in the beginning of the season, Thomas Jones looked to be on his way towards another disapppointing season - but lo, and the Favre got his head around the offense and the Mangini actually chose to run the ball - and now Jones is over 1100 yards and topping 13 touchdowns for the year. He's had a TD 7 of the last 8 games - 10 of them total in fact and faces a run defense ranked 21st in the league and allowing 13 rush TDs thus far. I think Jones will be asked to run the ball a lot in order to make sure the Jets control the clock in this must win game on their last trip west.

Running Backs

1. Pierre Thomas, Saints vs. Lions
2. Brian Westbrook, Eagles at Redskins
3. Steven Jackson, Rams vs. 49ers
4. Adrian Peterson, Vikings vs. Falcons
5. Thomas Jones, Jets at Seahawks
6. Marshawn Lynch, Bills at Broncos
7. Michael Turner, Falcons at Vikings
   
8. Steve Slaton, Texans at Raiders
9. Matt Forte, Bears vs. Packers
10. Clinton Portis, Redskins vs. Eagles
11. LaDainian Tomlinson, Chargers at Buccaneers
12. Ronnie Brown, Dolphins at Chiefs
13. Tashard Choice, Cowboys vs. Ravens
14. DeAngelo Williams, Panthers at Giants
15. Brandon Jacobs, Giants vs. Panthers
16. Kevin Smith, Lions vs. Saints
17. Chris Johnson, Titans vs. Steelers
18. Jamal Lewis, Browns vs. Bengals
19. Larry Johnson, Chiefs vs. Dolphins
20. Cedric Benson, Bengals at Browns
21. Ricky Williams, Dolphins at Chiefs
22. Darren McFadden, Raiders vs Texans
23. Ryan Grant, Packers at Bears
24. Cadillac Williams, Buccaneers vs. Chargers
25. Le’Ron McClain, Ravens at Cowboys
    
26. Sammy Morris, Patriots vs. Cardinals
27. P.J. Pope, Broncos vs. Bills
    
28. Maurice Morris, Seahawks vs. Jets
29. DeShaun Foster, 49ers at Rams
30. Willie Parker, Steelers at Titans
31. Jonathan Stewart, Panthers at Giants
32. Leon Washington, Jets at Seahawks
33. J.J. Arrington, Cardinals at Patriots
    
34. Chester Taylor, Vikings vs. Falcons
35. Warrick Dunn, Buccaneers vs. Chargers
36. Kevin Faulk, Patriots vs. Cardinals
37. Justin Fargas, Raiders vs. Texans
38. Tatum Bell, Broncos vs. Bills
39. Tim Hightower, Cardinals at Patriots
40. Mewelde Moore, Steelers at Titans
41. LaMont Jordan, Patriots vs. Cardinals
42. Ray Rice, Ravens at Cowboys
43. LenDale White, Titans vs. Steelers
44. Derrick Ward, Giants vs. Panthers

WR Rankings for Week 16

With the huge weekend, I expanded my last week of rankings (unless there is a huge outcry) so we're covered no matter what! So without further ado -

Steve Smith peaked at just the right time, huh? He's topped 100+ yards for 4 straight weeks and has scored in the last two games as well. He's on fire and even against tough defense like NY, he's a lock to your lineup. Delhomme may be on his way out, but he's finding Smith early and often (49 times in his last five games) and Smith is having success against even difficult matchups. Get him in and keep him in.

Megatron or Calvin Johnson as he is known as by some, can do a lot with a little. But last week he had a deluge of targets (16, 9 of which he caught) has scored 4 TDs over the last five games, with no less than 60 yards each game. The Saints are ranked 26th vs the pass although they have played better the last few weeks. Still Johnson should do well even with a meager amount of targets - and I think Orlovsky will continue to try and force him the ball and he'll get his chance again to have another big game.

Andre Johnson should continue to benefit from Matt Schaub's current hot streak. Johnson himself has been a tad streaky, but while he won't mount another 200+ yard game he should put up some great numbers nonetheless. Johnson thinks Nnamdi Asomugha will shadow him but Oakland doesn't usually do that. Still, even if it happens, Johnson is good enough to find room to move and catch plenty of balls as well.

Here we are again speaking of Greg Jennings who is STILL a guy that I never see/hear anyone talking about him. Maybe that's why I always feel like he's pretty underrated. As I think Rodgers is going to have a big day, you know Jennings will be his favorite target as always. He's automatic and been very stable as a fantasy WR and will be so again here in the Fantasy Championship.

While I do fully expect Michael Turner to be getting a ton of carries, Atlanta will need to pass on occasion to keep the defense honest. And Matt Ryan always looks for his top option, Roddy White. White should have no problem finding room to function against the 22nd ranked pass defense, though while they do not get too many interceptions, they also don't tend to allow many TDs (just 13 in 15 games). I do believe you'll see White in the end zone once though and he is sure to get good yards for you as well.

Wide Receivers

1. Steve Smith, Panthers at Giants
2. Calvin Johnson, Lions vs. Saints
3. Andre Johnson, Texans at Raiders
4. Greg Jennings, Packers at Bears
5. Roddy White, Falcons at Vikings
6. Larry Fitzgerald, Cardinals at Patriots
7. Antonio Bryant, Buccaneers vs. Chargers
8. Marques Colston, Saints at Lions
9. Dwayne Bowe, Chiefs vs. Dolphins
10. Vincent Jackson, Chargers at Buccaneers
11. Brandon Marshall, Broncos vs. Bills
12. Randy Moss, Patriots vs. Cardinals
13. Wes Welker, Patriots vs. Cardinals
14. Isaac Bruce, 49ers at Rams
15. Lance Moore, Saints at Lions
16. Braylon Edwards, Browns vs. Bengals
17. Hines Ward, Steelers at Titans
18. Lee Evans, Bills at Broncos
19. Terrell Owens, Cowboys vs. Ravens
20. Davone Bess, Dolphins at Chiefs
21. Donald Driver, Packers at Bears
22. Santana Moss, Redskins vs. Eagles
23. Kevin Walter, Texans at Raiders
24. Jerricho Cotchery, Jets at Seahawks
25. T.J. Houshmandzadeh, Bengals at Browns
26. DeSean Jackson, Eagles at Redskins
27. Derrick Mason, Ravens at Cowboys
28. Eddie Royal, Broncos vs. Bills
29. Michael Jenkins, Falcons at Vikings
30. Bernard Berrian, Vikings vs. Falcons
31. Domenik Hixon, Giants vs. Panthers
32. Santonio Holmes, Steelers at Titans
33. Steve Breaston, Cardinals at Patriots
34. Chad Johnson, Bengals at Browns
35. Devin Hester, Bears vs. Packers
36. Nate Washington, Steelers at Titans
37. Steve Smith, Giants vs. Panthers
38. Muhsin Muhammad, Panthers at Giants
39. Deion Branch, Seahawks vs. Jets
40. Donnie Avery, Rams vs. 49ers
41. Torry Holt, Rams vs. 49ers
42. Laveranues Coles, Jets at Seahawks
43. Bryant Johnson, 49ers at Rams
44. Bobby Wade Vikings at Falcons
45. Amani Toomer Giants vs Panthers

QB Rankings for Week 16

Aaron Rodgers has been playing well despite the unfortunate inability of the team to win over the last month. You can argue whether Favre would have been better for the Pack or what Rodgers doesn't do or how he ain't favre - all that maters, like, NOT at all. Fact is, he has thrown for 1119 yards, 8 TDs over the last four games. He has thrown 6 INTs which is problematic in many leagues, but since a bad game against New Orleans in week 12. Still, this is a big game where they can punk the Bears and Rodgers is playing well the last few weeks. He will definitely get yards (the bears allow 230+ yards per game and 17 TDs) but this is a tough defense which is ranked third in the league in interceptions. I believe Rodgers will have a great yardage and TD day - but he may toss a bad decision out there as well.

Drew Brees will see a lot of hand offs to Pierre Thomas as Thomas stomps the Lions defense. But Brees is still Brees and this offense throws - a lot. And will do so against Detroit as well. He hasn't been throwing the ball with the torrid pace he had been earlier, but I think he is goignto comedarn close to that 300 yards this week. Yes, even with Thomas there, he will throw a ton. After all behind Thomas is a banged up McAllister there's a whole lot of nothing. Brees will throw - early often and endlessly.

Now that it doesn't matter anymore, WOOO those Texans can play. Err.... anyway, maybe this would have been different had Matt Schaub not been hurt, but he did and it isn't. The Raiders have been a little spotty coverage wise- oh they have Nnamdi Asomugha, but that's about it. Turns out Chris Johnson isn't as good as he looked two weeks ago. It's going to be hard to contain Andre Johnson, Owen Daniels and Kevin Walter and Schaub has been tearing it up the last few weeks. Against a reeling defense, Schaub should have a field day.

Now the next two have me concerned due to weather. If it comes in sideways, both these guys will find themselves throwing short passes and handing off the ball - or at least watching their passes go backwards. Matt Cassel has played very well and is finding both Wes Welker and Randy Moss plenty of times. The Cards secondary is opportunistic and could create a turnover but they may be hard pressed to stop him, only slowing him down on occasion. Kurt Warner may be in more trouble, but might also have to throw even more because he has no run game. We have hit Tim Hightower's ceiling at this point and we already know what JJ Arrington can do. And Edge seems done. Warner - even in brutal weather - might have to throw even if Belichick keeps the pressure on him as you imagine he is plotting to do right now. But enough wind could limit how often he can reach Fitzgerald and Breaston (Boldin is out). Still, the possibility that he can throw 40 times means he could have a very good yards day.

Quarterbacks

1. Aaron Rodgers, Packers at Bears
2. Drew Brees, Saints at Lions
3. Matt Schaub, Texans at Raiders
4. Matt Cassel, Patriots vs. Cardinals
5. Kurt Warner, Cardinals at Patriots
6. Jay Cutler, Broncos vs. Bills
7. Tyler Thigpen, Chiefs vs. Dolphins
8. Philip Rivers, Chargers at Buccaneers
9. Donovan McNabb, Eagles at Redskins
10. Ben Roethlisberger, Steelers at Titans
11. Tony Romo, Cowboys vs. Ravens
12. Shaun Hill, 49ers at Rams
13. Matt Ryan, Falcons at Vikings
14. Seneca Wallace, Seahawks vs. Jets
15. Tarvaris Jackson, Vikings vs. Falcons
16. Jeff Garcia, Buccaneers vs. Chargers
17. Brett Favre, Jets at Seahawks
18. Trent Edwards, Bills at Broncos
19. Eli Manning, Giants vs. Panthers
20. Jake Delhomme, Panthers at Giants
21. Chad Pennington, Dolphins at Chiefs
22. Kyle Orton, Bears vs. Packers
23. Kerry Collins, Titans vs. Steelers
24. Joe Flacco, Ravens at Cowboys
25. Ryan Fitzpatrick, Bengals at Browns
26. Dan Orlovsky, Lions vs. Saints
27. Jason Campbell, Redskins vs. Eagles
28. Marc Bulger, Rams vs. 49ers
29. JaMarcus Russell, Raiders vs. Texans
30. Ken Dorsey, Browns vs. Bengals

Top WR Performances for Week 15

Andre Johnson 11/207/1 - Johnson continues to combine yards and TDs. The last three games have been a successful combo of both and while it's not an easy matchup against Oakland's secondary, clearly they can be beat. Johnson is a must start even if 200+ yards is a rare thing, he's on a roll and you should ride him to a win.

Steve Smith 9/174/1 - Smith is another one who is playing very well right now. He's amassed 100+ yards in four straight games and a TD in each of the last two. He faces a tough matchup in the Giants defense, but like Andre Johnson, you have to be playing him each week. He's too hot not too and has peaked at just the right time.

Calvin Johnson 9/110/1 - 1 fumble - Aside from a bad fumble, Megatron finally got both the targets AND the yards. He's had two games in a row with a TD as well. New Orleans' secondary can be beat and let's face it - in this gunfight, the Saints should come out blazing. It's hard to believe they'll get him that many catches again, but Johnson has been stellar all season long, with only a few true clunkers to his name. He's a guy who is too good to be contained by the defense in most games. And he's too good to to keep out of your fantasy lineup no matter what he faces.

Antonio Bryant 8/108/1- Here he is again. Antonio FREAKING Bryant. I can say that with venom as he escorted me out of one set of playoffs last week. That aside he is hot right now and you should have him playing each week. Is he a bona fide WR1? Probably not - but two straight 100+ yard games and three straight with at least 1 TD? He's hot enough for at a #2 spot. And with confidence no less. Whoda thunk it after the relatively unspectacular season?

Dennis Northcutt 5/136/1 - Is Northcutt the new 'go-to guy' in Jacksonville with Matt Jones finally on time out? Well with Mike Walker pretty much a no show, Jerry Porter on IR and Reggie Williams the other option, he probably is. I can't feel good about recommending him as anything but a WR3 or 4 but he may be the type of late year player worth having in the lineup. But careful - Indy is ranked seventh against the pass with only 5 TDs allowed.

Randy Moss 5/136/1 - A pretty darn good game that normally would have had him near the top of this list - he's essentially tied for 5 on it anyway and I'd recommend him over Northcutt in a heartbeat - but you were already playing him each week right?

Best of the rest -

Hines Ward 8/107 - Ward has been spotty all season long and now is facing a pretty good Titans defense. He should get a lot of short work but don't expect a big game.

Vincent Jackson 6/97/1 - 1 fumble - Another solid game from a guy normally relegated to WR3 or 4 status who probably should be a #2 on many teams by now. Had a rough patch a few weeks back, but seems to have passed it.

Marques Colston 6/84/1 - Still not consistent but should be in the lineup most weeks. While Pierre Thomas may go buck wild on the toothless Lions, Brees is Brees and will throw the ball. I would start Colston as aWR3 or 2 with confidence. However I reserve the right to change my mind as we close on the weekend.

Reggie Wayne 7/104 - Should have another good game against JAX on Thursday. Yes he's been 'meh' this season. But he'll end strong for you in the Championships.

Top Fantasy QBs of Week 15

Matt Cassel 218/4/1 (18 yards rushing) - Cassel continues to play very well in Brady's stead and could turn it into cash on the field next season for another team. For your fantasy team he's still a matchups only guy - and note the lack of yards. If you only get 4 pts for TDs, that 4 TD day looks less impressive.

Philip Rivers 346/2/1 - 1 fumble - Rivers - who was robbed today of a Pro Bowl appearence by one of my Jets, The Brett - continues to play hard behidn a slipshod Oline with little or no support from the run game. Rivers has had a few bad games and faces a good Tampa Bay defense, so this weekend may be another down week for him.

Tarvaris Jackson 163/4 - Low yardage totals aren't new but 4 TDs are. Jackson hasn't been spectacular and he's not scaring secondaries to make Peterson's job easier but he has played decently the last few games. I wouldn't have him near my lineup the rest of the way though.

Peyton Manning 318/1 - Manning had a decent game, though short a TD or two. He continues to be a must start again, now that his team has gotten back on track. He should be a very good start against Jacksonville this Thursday.

David Garrard 238/2 (31 yds running) - Garrard has been wildly inconsistent this season (like the Jags whole team) and is running out of wide receievers. I can't say he's an auto-sit, but more often than not, he will be a very risky start.

Best of the rest -
Donovan McNabb 290/2/1 - McNabb is back to form - all it took was a benching. The matchup vs Washington looks shaky but he's on the rise while they are slipping.
Ryan Fitzpatrick 209/1 (29 rush yards, 1 rush TD) - Unexpected appearence by the Harvard QB - I don't expect to see it again. Still too many question marks on the team.
Tony Romo 244/2 - I don't know if I buy the love triangle between he, Witten and TO, but it's not like the drama actually affected him as far as I could see.
Tyler Thigpen 171/1/1 (40 rush yards 1 rush TD)
JaMarcus Russell 242/2/1 - Russell had one of those games you look at and say 'yeah maybe he CAN do it' but it's still not a situation I would trust this week. Maybe Russell will become the Qb the Raiders need him to be - but this team is not in the shape he needs them to be either.

Top RB Performances for Week 15

Pierre Thomas 146/1 & 1 rec TD - Thomas has had two very nice games in a row and has peaked just in time to carry you to the Fantasy Championship - where he will face Detroit in one of the better matchups in Week 16. Thomas is certainly earning that permanent gig in the backfield and could seal it up this weekend.

Dominic Rhodes 116/2 - Rhodes looked like he was going to be a good play this weekend even before Addai was deactivated. With the full load, Rhodes showed he made the right decision in heading back home to Indy after the poor choice to go to Oakland. Addai is still shaky and may miss the game this week against Jacksonville. Rhodes will be a decent flex at least even if Addai plays and would bump up if Addai is out again.

Michael Turner 182/1- Turner has long put to rest the concern that he was inconsitent and struggled against better run defenses. You had to start him even against Minnesota's stout defense - and with Pat Williams out the matchup actually looks much better than it did a few days ago.

Tashard Choice 143/1- I don't even know what to make of Tashard Choice. What do you do with him against Baltimore? He's already performed against two of the top run defenses in the league in Pittsburgh and the Giants - performed being Blurb code for BLEW UP. Do you trust him going into the your championship game? It's hard for me to say he is a must start, but he has played very well TWICE against two top 5 run defenses. Can you afford to sit him?

Steven Jackson 127/1 - SJax is back! Kinda. This week. He should have a second good game against the 49rs this comign weekend. He is getting the rock and as long as he stays healthy he should be ok for this weekend, even though Singletary has the San Fran defense working pretty well.

Best of the rest -

Maurice Jones-Drew 70/1 & 1 rec- MJD should play all right against Indy, but has been shaky in terms of yard production.

Kevin Faulk 111 & 1 rec - Faulk shows his owners why he is often a solid flex option.

Darren McFadden 114/1- Darren 'Boom or Bust' McFadden booms last week - may have a decent day against Houston but you never know with the Raiders and the running backs.

Sammy Morris 117/1 - How Faulk and Morris got in on the same list is pretty intriguing and in New England that's pretty rare.

Kevin Smith 119/1 - A pretty good day against the Colts - he might look ok again versus New Orleans if Detroit doesn't abandon the run.

Top Fantasy QBs of Week 14

Some new faces, some guys we've seen before. Some guys heating up....

Matt Schaub - 414yds, 2tds, 1 2pt, 1INT - I never, ever, thought he was going to have this good a game after his layoff. But he sure proved his doubters wrong and should have put to rest the 'Sage is a better QB' talk that has permeated the last month or so. Still mostly a matchup guy, a very good showing.

Matt Ryan - 315/1/1 12pt, 1 rush TD - Ryan has had a phenomenal year and you just have to like this kid if you happen to have drafted him in Dynasty. Or redraft. Or if you are the Falcons. Again, mostly a matchup guy but he has some places he might start for you in the next few weeks. Tampa has shown they can be thrown on and we know that's the easiest way to beat the VIkings. Depending on your bench he might have a shot at helping you win it all.

Jeff Garcia - 321/2 - Is Garcia starting to heat up? Some mediocre outings was starting to make folks think we would see Josh Johnson, but it's likely we'll have to wait until next year on that. Garcia faces Atlanta (OK) this week, San Diego next week for many Championship weeks (good!) and then Oakland (who knows? Might not matter for your league).

Seneca Wallace - 212/3 1 fumble, 47 rush yards - I wouldn't trust him as far as I could throw him and given my bad back this week, that wouldn't be far. OK, my back is fine, but still - Wallace is risky to start. He does face the Rams which is a great matchup this week, and then the Jets who could be fighting hard for their playoff lives ad can be thrown on. I wouldnt' want to start him but if you face injuries there might be worse matchup-wise.


Peyton Manning - 277/3 - Hey, a familiar face. Manning had a good game this week and is -and should be - a starter regardless of game. What will happen against Detroit this week? Will they run too much? Well, for sure Detroit cannot hang with them in the air, so I suspect Manning will get his regardless.

The Rest - That some of these guys are here and not above should tell you how out of control the top spots were this week....
Philip Rivers - 214/3 & 19 rushing yards - Rivers put on a nice display this week but that oline has him too up and down to be counted on very easily.
Jay Cutler - 286/2/1 & 16 rush yards - Cutler might actually have to throw more and he should be a decent start going forward with the upside of being even better than decent.
Aaron Rodgers - 295/2/1 - Rodgers was very close to being in the top 5 and continues to be a very good start going forward most of the time. Even weather didn't hurt him too much.
Shaun Hill - 285/2/1 - Is he going to be a good start from here on out? I can't believe that but either had an extraordinarily good game or the Jets looked extraordinarily bad. I am a Jets fan - guess where I fall on that one?
Drew Brees - 230/2 - Another sub 300 yard game?!?! THE SKY IS FALLING THE SKY IS FALLING! Seriously, Brees looked better Sunday than he did the week prior and is getting the weapons he needs back and healthy. The Saints need to win, so you know he will play hard and while he may not be cracking 300+ each week, he's always a pretty good start.

Top WR Performances for Week 14

Here's a list of guys who - for the most part - are VERY UNLIKELY to repeat top 5 success. But they had big weeks nonetheless and if you faced them, they could have contributed to your downfall. It's incredibly frustrating to have a great team, only to lose on a mediocre players one week fantasy binge and purge - but that's the game we both love and loathe.

Antonio Bryant - 9/200/2 - AKA Andrew's Fantasy Death Knell Special. Bryant played out of his mind last night and will not do this again. Don't get me wrong - he will play well - but he won't sniff a day like this again this year and maybe ever. Hope you had him in - he goes back to the WR3 or so he normally tops out as. A PHENOMENAL performance regardless. Games like this is why these lists get posted on Tuesday now. If you faced him, you had a very unpleasant surprise.

Brandon Marshall - 11/91/2 - A great performance by a guy who is often sniffing the top 5 or so in fantasy leagues. Marshall came up big for Cutler multiple times and will be looked upon often to make up for yet another RB injury in the backfield. Could the Rb troubles allow secondaries to double him? Probably not as Royal, Scheffler and other players make teams pay when they do that.

Steve Smith - 9/117/1 - Here is the game we have been hoping to see more of from Steve Smith but has been missing because of the great running game. Smith blew up last night and while Bryant had a monster day, here's a guy who is more consistent and solid than Bryant has ever been. Looking at the numbers you can be blinded by Bryant's big day, but Smith did very well by his owners too.

Kevin Walter - 6/146/1 - Probably the best flex play any owner has at this point, Walter continues to add good yard totals with touchdowns. Schaub played very well (far better than I expected) in his return and Walter didn't miss a beat either.

Wes Welker - 12/134 & 1 2pt conv - Already a PPR monster, Welker had a good day even in standard scoring. A TD would have been nice, but his totals show you why he is always a play.


Best of the rest -
Roddy White - 10/164 - No TDs is a bummer but White continues to be a valid fantasy force. he should do somethign nice for Matt Ryan and Mike Turner.
Vincent Jackson - 5/148/1 - If only he could do this more consistently. Still a good WR3 or 4 most weeks.
Deion Branch - 4/88/2 - Was this because he faced his old team or is he finally healthy and ready to roll? I think somewhere in between. How much does Wallace like him is question 2.
Larry Fitzgerald - 6/73/1 - Boldin had another quiet day while Fitz got yards and TD again. Start him - always.
Calvin Johnson - 3/84/1 - I really wish he would get more than three catches, ever. Just think of what he could do if he had a team that could do that?

Top Fantasy RBs of Week 14

Brian Westbrook 203/1 rush td/1rec td - Westbrook has re-emerged as a top back just in time for lead you to the fantasy promised lands - if you rolled with him this week. Westy looks like he has gotten more energy than he had in the weeks before his outburst against Arizona and so does McNabb, If they can both keep it together, Westbrook may have just heated up right when you need him most.

DeAngelo Williams 192/2 - Williams continues to be a monster fantasy starter for you and will continue to be so, no matter who he is facing. The use of Stewart may seem a tad alarming but Williams will still be the workhorse and still continue his work as your bell cow.

Jonathan Stewart 115/2 - What changed between now and the last few weeks? Is Stewart suddenly about to be thrust into a major roll in the offense? It's almost impossible to say. So much so, that you'd better be damned sure - or damned desperate - before you trot him out as anything more than a flex during your playoff run.

Chris Johnson 166/1 - The rookie continues to have excellent value again, now that he is back on track post-Lion game. I believe he's perfect for a lock in your RB2 for sure here on out.

Pierre Thomas 109/1 rush td/1 rec td - is Thomas the real deal? It sure seems like it. He has a lot to prove and a job to lose and it looks like Payton trusts him to do the job. He definitely has the look of a late year breakout and again, great timing here.

The rest -
Darren Sproles 64/2 rec TD - A big day on some garbage work and not reliable enough to start with confidence....
Reggie Bush 106/1 rec TD - Bush should be a pretty consistent start from here on out and Thomas will morel ikely help him than hurt him as it gives him a companion threat in the backfield.
Tashard Choice 166 yards - I can't trust him but he looked better than I ever expected. Certainly worth a watch - but dangerous to trust. Was it just a one time bust of points?
Ryan Grant 112/1 - Just not consistent enough but a good flex play depending upon matchup.
Maurice Jones-Drew 102/1 rec td - MJD put up some good numbers and looked pretty good - but that offense is terrifying right now.

RB Rankings for Week 14

Adrian Peterson aka Purple Jesus was kept out of the end zone last time the Lions came to town and undoubtedly they will try to keep him out again, but it won't happen. The only thing that could keep him (and #19 Chester Taylor) from having a huge day would be if the head coach pulls a 'Childress' and out-coaches himself by pulling them at weird times or trying to throw 40 times. Can't happen? Well I call it a 'Childress' for a reason. But Peterson should have a huge day, this time with a TD.

Leading candidate in my rookie of the year column Matt Forte should continue to to put up his solid numbers against the Jags, who have given up 362 rushing yards in their last 3 games. For sure you have to get him in and can ride him for the playoffs - on top of everythign else, it's getting colder and the Bears will run the ball lots.

(sidenote: I have been very impressed with a bunch of rookie olineman - yes I consider them candidates, it's a shame more don't. How impressive is it when Ryan Clady steps into a notoriously hard to grasp zone blocking scheme in Denver and starts every game?)

Chris Johnson tore up the Lions and could have done even more had the Titans decided to not risk injury (madness - don't they know there were fantasy implications?). This week he faces a swiftly disintegrating team in Cleveland. The 26th rush defense sports an impressive 141.3 ypg allowed, with 11 TDs coughed up so far. Last week they confused the Colts (just 90 yards) but that was an abberration. You can be assured that Johnson will be right behind his friend Matt Forte in total yards for rookie RBs.

Thomas Jones is back in the top five - if only he didn't get 'Childressed' by Mangini and Schottenheimer on occasion. But against the 49rs - who are playing better for Big Mike Singletary and won last week - he should do well. Despite the win last week they gave up 156 yards to the Bills, and they average 108.2 rushing yards allowed per game this year with 10 rushing TDs served up. Over the past 3 weeks, they have allowed 356 rushing yards. If only Mangini runs the ball and controls the clock as he should have done against the Broncos. I think he will this week.

While Michael Turner started off streaky, he has become very consistent and totaled 318 yards and 6TDs over the last three games. I think he'll play well againsta defense that got blowed up good by Tampa Bay last weekend. Turner has been on fire the last few weeks and the Saints are a little less than average (19th in the league) so expect Turner to continue to be rolling in what is likely week 1 in yoru fantasy playoffs.

Other thougths -
Peyton Hillis is for reals yo - start him against KC and you should be very happy....Willie Parker practiced today fully, it might snow and Big Ben might throw, but FWP should have a pretty decent game against the Cowboys - sorry Boyz..... The Rams are a good matchup, but I don't like what I have seen (or not seen) from rookie Tim Hightower, hence the lower than usually warranted spot given the matchup.... Can't stop putting DeAngelo Williams in my lineup - don't expect 4 TDs but do expect excellent production.... Marion Barber may play/may not play, I don't like the matchup anyway - so those two things give him that really bad ranking this week.... Please Lord do not start Kevin Smith - Williams boys or no. Unless you need a flex bad or have some injury issues - he's about at the end of the 35 and so he can be started - but I don't expect tons from him. He has had a decent season though - lost amongst the wreckage of this winless year....

Running backs

1. Adrian Peterson, Vikings at Lions
2. Matt Forte, Bears vs. Jaguars
3. Chris Johnson, Titans vs. Browns
4. Thomas Jones, Jets at 49ers
5. Michael Turner, Falcons at Saints
6. Peyton Hillis, Broncos vs. Chiefs
7. Brandon Jacobs, Giants vs. Eagles
8. Marshawn Lynch, Bills vs. Dolphins
9. Brian Westbrook, Eagles at Giants
10. DeAngelo Williams, Panthers vs. Buccaneers
11. Joseph Addai, Colts vs. Bengals
12. Willie Parker, Steelers vs. Cowboys
13. Steve Slaton, Texans at Packers
14. Frank Gore, 49ers vs. Jets
15. Larry Johnson, Chiefs at Broncos
16. Reggie Bush, Saints vs. Falcons
17. Maurice Jones-Drew, Jaguars at Bears
18. Tim Hightower, Cardinals vs. Rams
19. Chester Taylor, Vikings at Lions
20. Ronnie Brown, Dolphins at Bills
21. Steven Jackson, Rams at Cardinals
22. Leon Washington, Jets at 49ers
23. Ryan Grant, Packers vs. Texans
24. LenDale White, Titans vs. Browns
25. Pierre Thomas, Saints vs. Falcons
26. Derrick Ward, Giants vs. Eagles
27. Clinton Portis, Redskins at Ravens
28. Cedric Benson, Bengals at Colts
29. Marion Barber, Cowboys at Steelers *MAY NOT PLAY*
    
30. Jamal Lewis, Browns at Titans
31. Warrick Dunn, Buccaneers at Panthers
32. Ricky Williams, Dolphins at Bills
33. Sammy Morris, Patriots at Seahawks
34. Kevin Smith, Vikings at Lions
35. Kevin Faulk, Patriots at Seahawks
    

WR Rankings for Week 14

The 'Quan had a bad game last week. Anquan Boldin dropped a ton of balls and didn't seem himself. Won't happen again. He's still Warner's fave red zone target, still the man across the middle and will be facing a pretty bad team. The reality is worse than the stats say - this is a team that looks better against the pass than they are, since teams run on them. But Warner throws a ton and will do so even against this defense. Boldin is likely good for soem nice yards and at least a TD.

Greg Jennings doesn't get near the love on weekly lists that he should. Rodgers zooms in on him - almost to a detriment at times - and knows he can go to Jennings any time and Jennings will make the catch. It will happen a ton against the Texans this week.

Once again, we have a pair of Cards Wrs in the top 5 - Larry Fitzgerald joins his partner and where Boldin is a better bet for TDs, Fitz is a sure bet for good yards, even if he doesn't get the TDs consistently. And there is always enough targets to go around in this offense.

Roddy White had a decent outing first time the Falcons met the Saints this season and it's likely he will again. Last time we were still unsure if what we were seeing was an illusion but we know what White can do with a solid QB, which Ryan most definitely is. Expect more of the same the rest of the way and start him without worry this weekend.

Reggie Wayne should have a good day against a Bengals D which - while improved in some games - still reverts to type more often than not. This is Wayne's team now, he's the #1 here and Manning will get him the ball a ton this Sunday. Bank on it.

Other thoughts -
Brandon Marshall has had a bad case of 'Braylon Edwards hands' lately but should get some targets and a TD against the Chiefs even if Hillis runs all over them as he did vs the Jets..... This is the week it all comes back together for Marques Colston and I think Moore will get more attention and Colston will be open again.... Dwayne Bowe has dropped quite a bit. I was a huge believer he could overcome his struggles but it appears he still has a ways to go before he can be fully trusted week to week.....

Wide receivers

1. Anquan Boldin, Cardinals vs. Rams
2. Greg Jennings, Packers vs. Texans
3. Larry Fitzgerald, Cardinals vs. Rams
4. Roddy White, Falcons at Saints
5. Reggie Wayne, Colts vs. Bengals
6. Randy Moss, Patriots at Seahawks
7. Andre Johnson, Texans at Packers
8. Steve Smith, Panthers vs. Buccaneers
9. Brandon Marshall, Broncos vs. Chiefs
10. Calvin Johnson, Lions vs. Vikings
11. Marques Colston, Saints vs. Falcons
12. Lee Evans, Bills vs. Dolphins
13. Kevin Walter, Texans at Packers
14. Donald Driver, Packers vs. Texans
15. Matt Jones, Jaguars at Bears
16. Jerricho Cotchery, Jets at 49ers
17. Hines Ward, Steelers vs. Cowboys
18. Bernard Berrian, Vikings at Lions
19. Wes Welker, Patriots at Seahawks
    
20. Dwayne Bowe, Chiefs at Broncos
21. Terrell Owens, Cowboys at Steelers
22. Lance Moore, Saints vs. Falcons
23. T.J. Houshmandzadeh, Bengals at Colts
    
24. Laveranues Coles, Jets at 49ers
25. Eddie Royal, Broncos vs. Chiefs
26. Steve Breaston, Cardinals vs. Rams
27. Santonio Holmes, Steelers vs. Cowboys
28. Anthony Gonzalez, Colts vs. Bengals
29. Justin Gage, Titans vs. Browns
30. Marvin Harrison, Colts vs. Bengals
31. Domenik Hixon, Giants vs. Eagles
32. DeSean Jackson, Eagles at Giants
33. Isaac Bruce, 49ers vs. Jets
34. Antonio Bryant, Buccaneers at Panthers
35. Santana Moss, Redskins at Ravens

QB Rankings for Week 14

As I said both on the ESPN Radio gig and this morning's News Stampede, I think Aaron Rodgers could be in for quite a good day. Yes the Texans could be worse against the pass. But the Pack's run game is banged up and I think Rodgers is getting that chip on his shoulder again. I like his prospects a lot this week.

Yes, I think Drew Brees is able to throw on the Falcons. Even with Bush back and Pierre Thomas heating up, Brees slings the ball. The oline doesn't block as well for the run as it does the pass and besides, his weapons are all guys who can catch - Thomas and Bush included. Look for him to break the 300 barrier again.

Kurt Warner could very well run into issues if the Cards get Hightower rolling but he hasn't shown me that's likely right now, so I expect Warner to come out slinging as always if just to build an early lead despite the terrible run defense of he Rams.

Manning: The Peyton is going to have a field day against the porous Bungles secondary. And while the reversion to 'Bungles' may sadden my 7 year old Bengals/Chargers hybrid fan, it is what it is. This team is a disaster, and Manning will have ample time to surgically slice the defense apart.

The more I examine this matchup the more I love Matt Cassel in it. Seattle is finished - and I think Cassel will get back on track and get Moss back on pace as well. Also, while Cutler and Ryan both have decent matchups, I think both the Broncos (or is it Donkeys GoGo? Remind me....) and Falcons will run the ball significantly. Yes, I said 'Broncos' and 'run ball' in the same sentence. Hillis is the real deal.

Other thoughts -
If the weather isn't too bad Ben Roethlisberger is a nice play against a shaky Cowboys secondary and with Demarcus Ware banged up, he might even have time to throw..... Donovan McNabb may not be the top QB this week and has a difficult matchup but - call it gut or whatever - but I think he's playing this game well and may catch the Giants off guard... Gus Frerotte should be a better start against the Lions - and I do think he throws to Berrian enough to make the WR worth it - but with Peterson and Taylor in the backfield, he shouldn't have to throw as much as Kerry Collins did... But it IS Brad Childress....

Quarterbacks

1. Aaron Rodgers, Packers vs. Texans
2. Drew Brees, Saints vs. Falcons
3. Kurt Warner, Cardinals vs. Rams
4. Peyton Manning, Colts vs. Bengals
5. Matt Cassel, Patriots at Seahawks
6. Matt Ryan, Falcons at Saints
7. Jay Cutler, Broncos vs. Chiefs
8. Brett Favre, Jets at 49ers
9. Ben Roethlisberger, Steelers vs. Cowboys
10. Tony Romo, Cowboys at Steelers
11. Donovan McNabb, Eagles at Giants
12. David Garrard, Jaguars at Bears
13. Chad Pennington, Dolphins at Bills
14. Eli Manning, Giants vs. Eagles
15. Tyler Thigpen, Chiefs at Broncos
16. Matt Schaub, Texans at Packers
17. Kyle Orton, Bears vs. Jaguars
18. Gus Frerotte, Vikings at Lions
19. Shaun Hill, 49ers vs. Jets
20. Kerry Collins, Titans vs. Browns
21. Jeff Garcia, Buccaneers at Panthers
22. J.P. Losman, Bills vs. Dolphins
23. Marc Bulger, Rams at Cardinals
24. Jake Delhomme, Panthers vs. Buccaneers
25. Joe Flacco, Ravens vs. Redskins
26. Matt Hasselbeck, Seahawks vs. Patriots
27. Jason Campbell, Redskins at Ravens
28. Daunte Culpepper, Lions vs. Vikings
29. Ryan Fitzpatrick, Bengals at Colts
30. Ken Dorsey, Browns at Titans

Top Fantasy RBs of Week 13

Brian Westbrook 130/2TDs ground, 2 TDs rec - I can't say which is the real Westbrook. The one who sucked for a month + straight or the one who rocked Arizona. His matchup this week is sucky. He looked Ok, but not great last Thursday. He's still hurt. But off a 9 day layoff? Hard to bench him. Tough, tough matchup vs the Giants in playoff week 1. But can we afford to miss another big game?

DeAngelo Williams 86/4 - I cannot keep him from my lineup. In the leagues I have him in, he has just squeezed out guys like Addai, MJD (even prior to Monday night) and Ronnie Brown, not to mention guys like Larry Johnson, Willie Parker and Jamal Lewis. I don't expect 2, 3, 4 TDs and 100 + yards from him every week - it just keeps happening anyway.

Steve Slaton 182/2 - Rookie Wall, Shnookie Wall. This guy may have had his numbers pumped with 2 late TDs and garbage yards but he's IN there and not getting out. I think he is as reliable as his rookie compatriots Forte and Chris Johnson - and safer than some vets. Slaton may wear down - but when?

Thomas Jones 159/2 -The Jets stopped running him in the second half which makes this total actually pretty amazing. The Jets fell way behind and panicked, offensively speaking, constantly reaching for big plays to turn things around instantly. Jones continues to be a great start though, week to week. They need to ride him harder and while I bring the Jets up, use friggin Leon Washington more.

Chris Johnson 134/2 - I said I expected them to try and get Johnson back on track and boy-howdy. You have to love Peterson against them this week. But I digress. Johnson looks like a great start the next two weeks (Browns and Texans) but a tougher start in the Championship week vs Pittsburgh though at least it's home. Johnson should be back on track though for the next few weeks and that could get you in the Big Game.

LenDale White 106/2 - I love me some LenDale/Hey Kool-Aid White. I figured he could get a TD - maybe 2 - against the horrible Lions and he did that and more. Still, it's the Lions. Expect you have a shot at TDs, but yards? Can't trust him to get them. Browns and Texans make him tasty for the short run though.

Matt Forte 125/1 rec td - Forte keeps on trucking even when the team is behind and losing. he gets yards on the ground, through the air - however he wants it. A stud who faces the Jags, Saints and Packers. Not bad.

Peyton Hillis 129/1 - And all on the ground for Hillis against a normally studly ground defense. As bad as the Jets looked, Hillis looked very nice. Great matchup vs the Chiefs this week but only so so after, facing the Panthers and Bills. Neither great, neither terrible. But the man appears to be able to play.

Adrian Peterson 130/1 - It's a testement to the great RB performances that this looks like less of a good day than it is. Peterson looked great in the game and should look ridonkulous against the Lions, even though they shut him down last time. Still one of the best and still a fantastic back.

Larry Johnson 92/1 - HE LIVES! Larry Boy is back and he might be a viable starter the rest of the way (a RB 2 maybe or flex) seeing the Broncos, Chargers and Dolphins. Not a great run, but not bad and Larry-Boy is playing respectfully the last three weeks. He's helped by the great play of Tyler Pigpen and the offense. Never thought that was going to happen.

Top Fantasy WRs of Week 13

Mark Clayton 5/164/1 - 32 pass yds, 1 pass TD - The man does it all. well not usually, but Clayton sure did as much as he could this weekend. He has had two very good games (especially considering his usual lack of production) and Flacco seems to be hitting his groove. While I cannot say he will be a lock the rest of the way, the timing is nice and he could work as a low #3 or good #4 from, here on out.

Bernard Berrian 4/122/1 - To say Berrian has been streaky this year would be an understatement. Was this a perfect storm - old team, indoors, decent Frerotte game? Maybe but Berrian can give you these games. With more consistency he could be a very good #2 with 1 upside. But as it is he's a marginal 2, safer 3 and some weeks could miss even that. Here's hoping he can be consistent the next three weeks.

Greg Jennings 8/91/1 - 1 2pt conversion - Rodgers locks on Jennings a little too much, btu Jennings is a bonafide stud and still one that casual fantasy owners have underestimated a ton. Not you guys though. Jennings will continue to be a decent #1/2 for you most weeks although as it gets colder in Green Bay, the pass game will suffer.

Larry Fitzgerald 5/65/2 - Who knew that of the Dynamic Duo, Fitz would get the pair of TDs this week? Always a shot at being in the top 5 WRs, Fitz is a must start no matter what.

Matt Jones 8/104 - The fact that six players were suspended for viloating the steroid policy and Dr. Rockso here pleaded out for felony possession of cocaine but is still playing - I don't get it. But as always, if he's playing, you play him. Has had a couple of light weeks, but is still a start - even as the offense looked like garbage at times last night, Garrard loves him some Jones. As should his fantasy owners. Maybe Garrard is one of those guys too.

Derrick Mason 6/91/1 - Wait? Two Ravens on this list? What? Flacco must have had the game of the century. Don't expect this again.

Terrell Owens 5/98/1 - TO is off his game again. Not even 100 yards. I mean, if it ain't 200+ and multiple TDs, something is wrong right? (for those who are easily confused, that would be sarcasm)

Andre Johnson 7/75/1 - Not quite what I expected but hey, when Johnson gets the TD, it's gravy. Now if he can keep doing it. Still a great start in any given week, TD or no.

Roddy White 6/112 - Great game by Turner and being banged up limited White this week. If you call 112 yards 'off'.

Marques Colston 6/106 - HEY - DREW BREES - LOOK OVER HERE! I AM STILL PLAYING! I CAN CATCH! PLEASE FOR THE LOVE OF MY FANTASY OWNERS THROW ME THE BALL!

*sob*

Let's hope this is the start of a trend for Colston's owners.

RBS a little later.

Top Fantasy QBs of Week 13

Tony Romo 331/3/1 - 14 rush yds - I said I thought when all was said and done, Romo might be the top guy come Monday morning and he was. He continues to look very good and is peaking right as we hit fantasy playoffs. Couldn't ask for more.

Donovan McNabb 264/4/ - 24 rush yds - McNabb certainly bounced back with a vengeance against a Cards team that really does not travel East well. McNabb should be back on track now, though I will worry about him going forward regardless.

Aaron Rodgers 298/3/1 - 2pt conv, 26 rush yds - Rodgers may be no Brett Favre, but he's played pretty well for most of the season. A little more help from the Oline and a little less locking onto Jennings could help. The Pack is almost done though and that will be how his first year is remembered. Still, a guy who is almost a lock for your startign QB gig.

Jay Cutler 357/2/1 - Just about tore apart the Jets secondary. The oline held for him and he seemed to have all day to not throw towards Jets corner Darrelle Revis. The rest of the Jets secondary was very vulnerable and Cutler - who can be up and down - had a sky-high day in Jersey.

Joe Flacco 280/2 - 15 rush yds - While not as consistent or solid as his rookie comrade Matt Ryan, Flacco has begun to come into his own and is starting to make the passing game relevant again in Baltimore. He has really progressed well this season and while I had my doubts, he has opened my eyes. Could be solid for several years to come as well as great for certain matchups in the Fantasy playoffs.

Kurt Warner - 235/3/3 - Another high yardage game but Warner was pressured a lot by the blitzing Eagles (something I was worried might happen) and turned the ball over three times. He also couldn't overcome a slow start and an early deficit.

Eli Manning 305/1/1, 7yds rushing - No Plax, no problem. Other WRs stepped up and The li had a pretty fair game. Manning has been a little hot and cold, sure, but has been playing well, if not spectacular this year.

Drew Brees 296/2/3 - First time in a long time Brees missed the 300 mark or looked remotely human. A tough outing all round for Brees, who still managed to throw a ton and get two TDs, despite some INTs. Should be fine for the fantasy playoffs.

Matt Ryan 207/2 - An odd place for Ryan, being relegated to 'the other rookie' status for one week. I thought he would take advantage of the streaky Chargers secondary more, but he didn't have to. I was concerned that might be the case, but Ryan will give you better games when the matchup is favorable, Turner or no.

Gus Frerotte 210/1/1 - 1 rush TD - Not really all that impressive although hitting Berrian on that 99 yard pass play was nice. Frerotte is not a guy I am ever really impressed with and you have to wonder what is in store next year. For this year, I don't love him - he is unreliable, prone to bad games and often forgets he has Berrian to throw to.

WRs and Rbs a little later.

Top RB Performances for Week 12

Here are the last of the top performers for week 12 - keep in mind yards for RBs are combined rec & rushing.

Enjoy!

Michael Turner 117/4 - Turner had a stupid good day here, slicing up the Panthers on the ground. The yards are pretty good - but the 4 TDs are ridonculous. Won't happen often, but nice icing on the cake of a decent day.

Matt Forte 146/2 - Rookie what now? No rookie wall here, as Forte continues to be pretty much the best fantasy rookie period. Matchups, rookie wall, exhaustion, mediocre Qbs - nothing has stopped him and I have to think there is a good chance nothing will.

Leon Washington 84/2 - Can't do it consistently enough to warrant much more than a flex start, but Leon is definitely worth a bench spot and the Jets are starting to figure out they HAVE to get him involved.

DeAngelo Williams 130/1 - Williams continues to tear it up regardless of whether the Panthers are trailing or leading. Stewart looks to be no threat this season, as John Fox keeps to his 'vets first' mindset. Williams has earned it this year though.

Warrick Dunn 127/1 - Dunn's back loks fine, the Caddy is rusty and this offense likes to run. Don't know if this will happen often but Dunn is a workhorse even in the twilight of his career.

Thomas Jones 117/1 rec td - Oh yeah, he did this againt the Tenn D. The one all the pundits said couldn't be beat. Yeah, TJ is having a great second half and if the oline keeps rolling over the opposing Dline - he has some great matchups going forward, so it could be beautiful.

Marshawn Lynch 104/1 - 'Dis Mah Son' as Lammey affectionately calls him is getting regular carries, although considering the beat-down the Bills administered to the Chiefs, you wonder why it wasn't more.

Darren McFadden 52/2 - McFadden had a poor day for the most part, but those 2 TDs are nice. I wouldn't have started him and the performance didn't make me want him to. They need to blow this team up and then he, Russell and Miller can start over in a new country under assumed names. Next year, McFadden. You'll emerge in a better world..... maybe...

Maurice Morris 113/1 rec td - MoMo finally had a decent day but the Seahawks are a wreck and I don't have much hope for his production the rest of the way.

Kevin Faulk 105/1 - As I have said several times, Faulk is about the only consistent thing in the Pats backfield. His production was almost perfectly split - about 50/50 split between receiving and rushing. He's a decent flex who had an above average game. Still, in a pinch, he's the guy to have in this backfield.

Top WR Performances for Week 12

Randy Moss 8/125/3 - Moss had one of his good games in this Jeckyl and Hyde season, helping the Pats carry past the surging Dolphins in a key matchup. When Cassel needed him Randy was there. He usually is, Cassel just doesn't always see him.

Terrell Owens 7/213/1 - HERE HE IS! That's what we've waited for. Owens had a monster day and while the quality of the opponent won't always be this low, he should stay a factor from here on out.

Isaac Bruce 8/125/1 - I love Bruce and the fact that he is still successful at his age is awesome but this is an aberration and while he may stay a decent WR3/4 or flex on occasion, you cannot trust you will see these numbers the rest of the season.

Steve Smith (CAR) 8/168 - Smith piled up the yards but couldn't find the end zone -story of his year, right? Smith is a very good WR but with just 4 TDs on the year, he still makes it hard on his owners in non-PPR play.

Anquan Boldin 11/87/1 - Boldin had a pretty godo day considering the Giants played well defensively. The Cards are for real on both sides of the ball. Also while there are plenty of targets to go to all three Wrs (Boldin, Fitz and Breaston) Boldin is the red zone guy.

Andre Johnson 10/116 - Like Steve Smith, keeps putting up good yards but cannto find the end zone. So like Steve Smith, he's somewhat of a dissappointment to many owners. Could be worse - could be like Owen Daniels owners for whom Rosenfels has been a year killer.

Wes Welker 8/120 - Welker is always a good play, especially in a PPR league, though this week he had a ton of yards to go with the catches. Always a solid WR.

Kevin Walter 7/93/1 - If you want to know where Andre Johnson's TDs go, here is one spot. Walter has had a fantastic season and has been nails as a WR3/4 which is all you ever wanted. He's been putting up points that far outwiegh his draft slot.

Laveraneus Coles 7/88/1 - You never know who The Brett will throw too which has made the Jets offense tough to figure out WR wise. Coles this week, Cotchery next, then Keller for two..... Suffice to say, I expect very few repeats for Coles, and you'll never know when anyway.

Anthony Gonzalez 6/95/1 - Gonzalez has had a huge step back compared to last year though some of that is due to the immense struggles of the rest fo the team. He's prone to games much worse than this and is a shaky start though down the road (i.e. next season) I think he will begin to emerge as a nice fantasy option.