Randy Moss (WR, SF)
With the signing of Randy Moss the Niners are hoping they’ve found a wide receiver who can compliment Vernon Davis.  While I think it’s unrealistic to expect Moss to be the same player he was years ago lost a step, there’s almost no way to not see him being the Niners’ top wideout next season.  As bad as Crabtree looked in games, he did have some productive fantasy days, so I think Moss is at minimum a WR3, with the upside to be a WR2.

Brandon Marshall (WR, CHI)
The Dolphins traded Marshall to the Chicago Bears on Tuesday.  He will be reunited with Jay Cutler who he caught balls from in Denver to start his career.  While they’ve done great things, it will be interesting to see how Marshall responds to playing in Chicago where they still hope to be a clock controlling team.  If he can keep his ego in check he should remain a WR1.

Marques Colston (WR, NO)
After tagging Drew Brees, it looked as if the Saints were going to lose their most productive WR.  They were able to make it work and signed Colston to a 5 year deal.  His fantasy value remains mostly unchanged, although it will be interesting to see how the loss of Robert Meachem and his field stretching capabilities affects the space Colston gets.

Vincent Jackson (WR, TB)
Vincent Jackson took the big contract Tampa Bay was offering, and looks to continue his success with Josh Freeman throwing him the ball.  While his talent hasn’t been questioned, he was often disappointing last year as he wouldn’t produce to expectations.  He still has the upside to be a WR1, but it’s risky especially now with a new quarterback.  This signing should increase the value of Mike Williams (and to some extent Arrelious Benn).  Williams should see a lot more single coverage and he should be able to capitalize on that to produce numbers many expected from him last season.

Robert Meachem (WR, SD) 
After losing Vjax, the Chargers wasted no time in signing Robert Meachem.  Phillip Rivers loves to throw the deep ball and Meachem remains one of the league’s best at stretching the field.  I think Meachem will be ownable in most leagues next year and I would put the sleeper tag on him.

Redskins acquire Rams’ 2nd overall pick    
With this bold move, it looks like the Redskins are going to take RGIII to be their QB of the future.  If this turns out to be the case, I like how this benefits the wideouts for Washington as I watched Griffin extensively last year (he led my CFB Fantasy team to the title) and he’s already a better passer than Grossman/Beck.  His athleticism should also lead to some rushing touchdowns which would normally lower the value of the RB’s, but with all the Shanahanigans it’s hard to see their value dip any lower.


Written by Ilyn Yeh exclusively for TheFantasyFix.com
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(December 25, 2010 - Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images North America)

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1.  San Francisco 49ers (@STL) - With a win the 49ers will secure the #2 seed and an all-important bye.  When these two teams met in week 13 the Rams were unable to put any points on the board.  Repeating a shutout on the road will be a tough task, but this is still a great matchup for San Francisco.

2.  Pittsburgh Steelers (@CLE) - The Steelers need to win and have the Ravens lose to win the division and secure a bye.  Their defense was able to shut out the Rams last week and has been playing better as of late.  They will face a Cleveland team on the road, that has struggled all year to score touchdowns.

3.  Atlanta Falcons (TB) - The Falcons couldn't stop Drew Brees on Monday night, but this week get to face a Tampa Bay team that seems to have given up on their season.  The Falcons should be able to turn them over while limiting their scoring.

4.  Baltimore Ravens (@CIN) - The Ravens need a win to gaurantee themselves a bye.  They will be facing the surprising Bengals who put up a good showing when they last faced.  All year, the Ravens have run hot or cold.  When hot, they are easily one of the best defenses in the league.  I think they show up this week and make life tough for the rookie Dalton.

5.  Houston Texans (TEN) - The Texans don't have anything to play for in terms of improving their playoff seed, but after dropping two straight they will be fighting to gain some momentum.  They will also be fired up to play spoiler to the Titans who need a win and some help to make the playoffs.

6.  Denver Broncos (KC) - The Broncos will claim the AFC West with a win against the Chiefs.  Their defense looked terrible in Buffalo, but this week they're back at home and get to face a Chiefs team that has yet to sustain anything on offense.  They should be able to force Orton to make throws, as they should be able to stop their run game. 

7.  Philadelphia Eagles (WAS) - The Eagles have nothing to play for this week, but it seems like having the pressure off of their shoulders, has actually allowed them to play better.  They had a shutout intact against the Cowboys, albeit sans Romo, until a late punt block allowed a late Miles Austin touchdown.

8.  Chicago Bears (@MIN) - The Bears have also been eliminated from the postseason, but their defensive unit isn't the type to let up.  Minnesota's offense has looked more potent with Joe Webb behind center, but without Adrian Peterson their run game will be lacking.

9.  Tennessee Titans (@HOU) - The Titans are hoping for a few thigns to go their way to secure a playoff berth.  The only thing they can control is to beat the Texans.  The Texans will most likely use Arian Foster sparingly as they need to make sure he is healthy for their first ever postseason.  Look for the Titans to stack the box, and make Yates beat them down the field.

10.  New York Giants (DAL) - The Giants defense came out extremely motivated against their corss town rivals and their "big bellied" coach and it showed.  They were applying pressure on Sanchez all game long.  I expect more of the same as their playoffs begin in Week 17.  It doesn't hurt that Romo suffered a hand injury on Saturday.

11.  Arizona Cardinals (SEA) - The Cardinals defense has been playing extremely well lately.  They should be able to slow down Marshawn Lynch to an extent.  The Seahawks have also not played nearly as well on the road this season.  This could be a good matchup for the Cardianls.

12.  Jacksonville Jaguars (IND) - The Indianapolis Colts have won 2 in a row, but this week face a Jaguars team whose defense has played pretty well all season.  The Colts' two wins both came at home, and I don't think they'll be able to muster enough offense to beat MJD and the jags in Jacksonville.

13.  Cincinnati Bengals (BAL)
14.  New York Jets (@MIA)
15.  New Orleans Saints (CAR)
16.  New England Patriots (BUF)
17.  Minnesota Vikings (CHI)
18.  Miami Dolphins (NYJ)‎
19.  St. Louis Rams (SF)
20.  Detroit Lions (@GB)
21.  Green Bay Packers (DET)
22.  Washington Redskins (@PHI)
23.  Indianapolis Colts (@JAX)
24.  Dallas Cowboys (@NYG)
25.  Seattle Seahawks (@ARI)
26.  Cleveland Browns (PIT)
27.  San Diego Chargers (@OAK)
28.  Kansas City Chiefs (@DEN)
29.  Oakland Raiders (SD)
30.  Buffalo Bills (@NE)
31. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (@ATL)
32.  Carolina Panthers (@NO)

Written by Ilyn Yeh exclusively for TheFantasyFix.com

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(December 3, 2011 - Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images North America)

1.  Baltimore Ravens (CLE) – The Ravens laid an egg yet again in nationally televised game at San Diego.  They were able to maintain their position for a bye when Pittsburgh was unable to take advantage Monday night in San Francisco.  I expect the Ravens to come out extremely focused this week when they get the Browns at home.

2.  Pittsburgh Steelers (STL) – The Steelers had a chance to sit at the top of the AFC, but they were unable to do anything on offense in San Francisco.  A bye would help them immensely as they try to get Big Ben healthy, and they have a golden matchup this week with the Rams at home.

3.  San Francisco 49ers (@SEA) – The Niners defense looked fantastic against the Steelers in front of a rowdy crowd.  This week they get the Seattle Seahawks who have been on quite a roll themselves, but they’ve relied heavily on Marshawn Lynch, who the Niners should be able to contain – especially if Patrick Willis is back.

4.  Tennessee Titans (JAX) – Jacksonville’s offense has consistently been at the bottom of the league in virtually all categories this season.  The Titans realize that their main focus is to contain mJD, and to let Gabbert try to beat them through the air.  As long as their offense doesn’t make costly mistakes, they should be able to prevent Jacksonville from sustaining long scoring drives.

5.  Green Bay Packers (CHI) – The Packers’ dream of an unblemished season died unexpectedly in Kansas City.  They may start sitting regulars this week if they are blowing out Chicago early like I suspect, but I’m not sure either of the Bears’ quarterbacks can do much of anything even against an NFL second unit.

6.  Houston Texans (@IND) – On paper the Texans should be ranked higher than this, but I’m always wary of a road team in a nationally televised game.  The Colts have looked a lot better on offense with Orlovsky running the show, but the Texans should still be able to contain them.

7.  Seattle Seahawks (SF) – The Seahawks have been playing great defense, and have been one of the top scoring fantasy DSTs the last 6 weeks.  While I’m not sure they’ll be able to muster enough offense to win this matchup, their defense should be able to hold the Niners to a low output, as they continue to struggle to convert opportunities into touchdowns.

8.  Cincinnati Bengals (ARI) – Arizona has played better of late, but face a tough challenge in Cincinnati.  The Cardinals will struggle to establish a run game, and will need Larry Fitzgerald to continue to make amazing plays.  Even if he does, I don’t think he’ll make enough to make this a bad matchup for the Bengals.

9.  Washington Redskins (MIN) – Christian Ponder has taken a step backward since having a mildly impressive start to his NFL career.  The Redskins were able to intercept Eli Manning 3 times last week, and I expect more of the same this week.

10.  Denver Broncos (@BUF) – The Broncos defense fell apart as the game wore on against the Patriots, but it’s hard to hold that against them.  The Bills offense hasn’t been nearly as efficient since the loss of stat Fred Jackson.  I think the Broncos will be able to apply heavy pressure to Fitzpatrick, and force some turnovers.

11.  Kansas City Chiefs (OAK) – The Chiefs defense looked like a different team, when they shut out Green Bay for the first half, and were able to hold on and shock the world.  If they can play with the same intensity it could be a tough matchup for Carson Palmer and the rival Raiders in Arrowhead.

12.  New York Giants (@NYJ) – The Giants once again didn’t show up in a game they should have won.  I think they come out with extra intensity this week as they face their cross-town rivals.  They should be able to stymie Shonn Greene, and force Mark Sanchez to beat them with his arm.  If Jason Pierre-Paul can continue to dominate the line of scrimmage, it will force Sanchez to rush his throws, which history has shown leads to good things for the defense.

13.  Philadelpha Eagles (@DAL)
14.  New York Jets (NYG)
15.  San Diego Chargers (@DET)
16.  Oakland Raiders (@KC)
17.  Dallas Cowboys (PHI)
18.  New Orleans Saints (ATL)
19.  New England Patrioits (MIA)
20.  Carolina Panthers (TB)
21.  Detroit Lions (SD)
22.  Buffalo Bills (DEN)
23.  Minnesota Vikings (@WAS)
24.  St. Louis Rams (@PIT)
25.  Arizona Cardinals (@CIN)
26.  Indianapolis Colts (HOU)
27.  Jacksonville Jaguars (@TEN)
28.  Tampa Bay Buccaneers (@CAR)
29.  Atlanta Falcons (@NO)
30.  Chicago Bears (@GB)
31.  Cleveland Browns (@BAL)
32.  Miami Dolphins (@NE)

(November 19, 2011 - Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images North America) 

Written by Ilyn Yeh exclusively for TheFantasyFix.com

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1.  San Francisco 49ers (PIT) – The last two nationally televised games that the Steelers have played they have scored 27 total points.  The opponents in those games have been Kansas City and Cleveland.  Neither of those defenses are on the same level as the Niners.  There is always the chance that Pittsburgh was playing “down” to the level of the competition, but even if that were the case the fact that Big Ben’s mobility will likely be greatly reduced, I think this is still a good matchup for a San Francisco team who is coming off an unexpected loss and will be looking for redemption on the biggest of stages.

2.  Green Bay Packers (@KC) – Kansas City managed to get into double digits via an ill-advised pass into triple coverage by Palko.  Kansas City is still one of the best matchups to have a defense go against for fantasy purposes.  If Green Bay didn’t have a penchant for giving up late points in games that have already been decided they would probably top my list.  It will be interesting to see if the Packers start giving more rest to guys like Mathews and Woodson once they get a comfortable lead.

3.  Pittsburgh Steelers (@SF) – While Pittsburgh’s offense hasn’t done well their past few games on national television, their defense has stepped up.  While they will be without James Harrison due to his suspension, the Niners’ offense isn’t exactly explosive.  If they can contain Frank Gore, and force Alex Smith to throw the ball they should be in good shape.

4.  Atlanta Falcons (JAX) – MJD won many fantasy playoff matchups all by himself against Tampa Bay.  It definitely won’t be as easy for him or his teammates this Thursday in Atlanta.  The Falcons rank fifth in the league in terms of rushing yards given up.  Blaine Gabbert hasn’t shown me anything to scare me off playing the Falcons with confidence.

5.  Houston Texans (CAR) – The Texans have gone 7 games in a row without giving up 20 points.  While Carolina has been able to score points this season, they still the ball over an awful lot.  Arian Foster and Ben Tate should be able to run at will against the Panthers, which should also shorten the game.  I think this is a deceptively good matchup for the Texans at home.

6.  Baltimore Ravens (@SD) – The Ravens allowed a touchdown on the last play of the game, otherwise their DST numbers last week would have been even more impressive.  Based on season to date numbers I should have the Ravens higher than this, but playing a hot SD team on the road this year has them down a couple spots.  I don’t trust Phillip Rivers in December to suck as much as I think he should.

7.  Tennessee Titans (@IND) – On one hand, the Titans defense looked pretty good at home against the Saints, and are playing the winless Colts.  On the other hand, the colts seem to have found some rhythm with Dan Orlovsky behind center.  They should be able to minimize the Colts’ points, but there isn’t as much big play upside for the Titans.

8.  Arizona Cardinals (CLE) – The Cardinals have won 3 straight (and 5 out of 6) and just beat a very good team in San Francisco.  This week the get the Browns, which should be another nice matchup for them.  The reason I have them outside the top 5 is because they’re still the Cardinals, and I don’t trust them not to suffer a letdown this week.

9.  New York Jets (@PHI) – The Jets defense has been one of the more consistent groups in fantasy this season.  The Eagles’ offense has been anything but consistent.  If the bad Eagles come out, the Jets could be the top ranked defense this week.  If the good Eagles show up instead they could finish out of the top 12 entirely.  Major risk/reward play this week.

10.  Chicago Bears (SEA) – The Bears got completely Tebow’ed last Sunday.  Their defense played more than good enough to win that game, but a couple of boneheaded plays by Marion Barber cost them the game.  Marshawn Lynch has been in full Beastmode, but I don’t expect him to do nearly as much against the Bears in Chicago.  I think this ends up being a low scoring game.

11.  Cincinnati Bengals (@STL) – Sam Bradford has been in a sophomore slump all year, but last night was a different kind of terrible for him.  A lot of the blame can be put on his bum ankle and missing practice, but I’m not sure if he’ll be able to plant comfortable this week either.  If the Bengals remain stout against the run, it will put a lot of pressure on Bradford and his ankle.

12.  Detroit Lions (@OAK) – There were rumors swirling that some Raider veterans were losing faith in Hue Jackson, based on his decision to let Rolando McClain play against the dolphins.  Last week at Green Bay, they definitely looked like a team that may have fallen apart.  Carson Palmer seems to have taken a step back, and if the Lions can shut down Michael Bush, they should be in for a big day.

13.  Dallas Cowboys (@TB)
14.  New York Giants (WAS)
15.  Philadelphia Eagles (NYJ)
16.  Seattle Seahawks (@CHI)
17.  San Diego Chargers (BAL)
18.  Miami Dolphins (@BUF)
19.  New Orleans Saints (@MIN)
20.  New England Patriots (@DEN)
21.  Buffalo Bills (MIA)
22.  Cleveland Browns (@ARI)
23.  St. Louis Rams (CIN)
24.  Jacksonville Jaguars (@ATL)
25.  Washington Redskins (@NYG)
26.  Carolina Panthers (@HOU)
27.  Indianapolis Colts (TEN)
28.  Minnesota Vikings (NO)
29.  Denver Broncos (NE)
30.  Oakland Raiders (DET)
31.  Tampa Bay Buccaneers (DAL)
32.  Kansas City Chiefs (GB)

Written by Ilyn Yeh exclusively for TheFantasyFix.com

Follow The Fantasy Fix on Twitter @thefantasyfix

or  for Free Fantasy Sports Advice use our Quick Fix to get help with your team! 

(July 28, 2011 - Photo by Jared Wickerham/Getty Images North America)

1.  New York Jets (KC) – Getting Palko at home is a great matchup for the Jets.  In his 3 starts he has turned the ball over 7 times, while the Chiefs have only managed to score 22 points combined in those 3 games.  Jets here how a very high ceiling if they can turn a turnover into a DTD, and their floor is also high as I can’t imagine a scenario where the Chiefs do a lot of damage.

2.  Baltimore Ravens (IND) – Dan Orlovsky was able to put some points on the board for the Colts late in a game that had already been decided against the Patriots.  I don’t think he’ll be able to do the same against the Ravens who have been really getting after it defensively the past few weeks.  

3.  Pittsburgh Steelers (CLE) – Colt McCoy will face a tough test in Pittsburgh on Thursday night.  Peyton Hillis hasn’t lived up to his Madden cover, and McCoy’s receivers haven’t been helping him out (leading the league in drops).  Pittsburgh’s offense has yet to shine on the big stage of a nationally televised game this year, but their defense seems to be a constant.

4.  San Francisco 49ers (@ARI) – San Francisco completely shut down the Rams last week at home.  The rams managed only 157 total yards, and were unable to put any points on the scoreboard while turning the ball over twice and giving up 4 sacks.  This looks like another very good matchup against a Cardinals offense that has yet to find an offensive groove.  The reason I have this premier defense behind the other 3 is merely because they’re on the road.  It wouldn’t surprise me if the Niners ended up a top 3 defense this week.

5.  Seattle Seahawks (STL) – Things likely won’t be getting any easier for the woeful Rams as they head up to Seattle to play on Monday Night.  A normally raucous crowd, should be borderline insane as they get to be behind their team who just played exceptionally well while limiting the Eagles to 14 points.  The Seahawks last week were also able to pick off Vince Young 4 times, and managed to return one back for a TD. 

6.  Cincinnati Bengals (HOU) – TJ Yates did a good job in his first start for Houston.  He wasn’t asked to do a whole lot as the Texans got out to an early lead and he was just asked to protect it.  He was 12/25 for 188 yards with 1 TD.  They again relied on a heavy dose of Foster and Tate who carried the ball a combined 42 times.   Cincy’s defense has been far better against the run this yer than the pass, so it will be interesting to see if Houston will have to rely on Yates to win them the game.  If so, he’ll most likely be without Andre Johnson who hauled in 97 of those 188 passing yards.  If the Cincy run defense holds up, which I expect, it could be an ugly day for Yates.

7.  Miami Dolphins (PHI) – The Dolphins are one of the hottest teams in the league right now.  Who would have believed that 5 weeks ago when the Dolphins were 0-7.  I had a good feeling about them last week, but was hesitant to have them in my top 12 until they “prove” themselves.  Completely stuffing Michael Bush last week has them in my top 12 for the first time.  They were 8 minutes away from shutting the Raiders out, until they gave up a couple of meaningless touchdowns.  I think the Eagles could pose some problems with Vick back at the helm, but at this point of the season it’s the Eagles that have to prove to me they’re even trying anymore.  What a strange season it’s been.

8.  Chicago Bears (@DEN) – Tim Tebow was able to shred the Minnesota defense on Sunday.  I’ve never seen a guy constantly get behind the coverage as easily as Demaryius Thomas was able to in that game.  I think this matchup against the Bears will be a much harder one.  The Bears know that their offense has been decimated, and the defense is prepared to carry the burden.  While they lost last week to Kansas City, none of the blame could be put on the defense.  They gave up only 10 points, and  7 of those were on a hail mary to end the first half. 

9.  Houston Texans (@CIN) – The Houston defense again led their team to a victory against the Falcons.  The unit as a whole has really stepped up following the injuries to Andre Johnson,  Mario Williams,  and Matt Schaub.  When everyone was healthy they were playing good defense, but now they’re playing great.  I expect this matchup in Cincy to a defensive struggle, as two rookie quarterbacks would very well be forced to win this game with their arms. 

10.  Denver Broncos (CHI) – The Denver defense gave up a lot of points to Minnesota last week, but this week they get to return home to face a Bears team that is missing Jay Cutler and Matt Forte.  I haven’t done the math, but I’d guess that’s like 200% of their offense.  I’m only slightly exaggerating.  I would take advantage of this matchup if you’re in dire need of a defense this week.

11.  Tampa Bay Buccaneers (@JAX) – I really don’t like Tampa Bay’s defense.  They’re not intimidating anymore.  They haven’t had any fantasy value all year.  As bad as I think they are, the Jacksonville offense is just that much worse.  They’re last in total offense (254.7 yds/g) and second to the last in points per game (12.7).  Even Tampa Bay makes a startable fantasy option against the Jags.

12.  Green Bay Packers (OAK) – The Packers’ quest for perfection came very close to coming to an unceremonious end in the Meadowlands.  This week they’ll get to face an Oakland team that is still without McFadden, and most likely 2 of their most explosive wideouts in Moore and Ford.  Green Bay is going to put points on the board as they always do, and I don’t expect Carson Palmer to do a whole lot in Lambeau.

13.  Detroit Lions (MIN)
14.  New England Patriots (@WAS)
15.  New York Giants (@DAL)
16.  New Orleans Saints (@TEN)
17.  Atlanta Falcons (@CAR)
18.  Philadelphia Eagles (@MIA)
19.  Dallas Cowboys (NYG)
20.  San Diego Chargers (BUF)
21.  Arizona Cardinals (SF)
22.  St. Louis Rams (@SEA)
23.  Buffalo Bills (@SD)
24.  Jacksonville Jaguars (TB)
25.  Kansas City Chiefs (@NYJ)
26.  Cleveland Browns (@PIT)
27.  Carolina Panthers (ATL)
28.  Indianapolis Colts (@BAL)
29.  Minnesota Vikings (@DET)
30.  Washington Redskins (NE)
31.  Tennessee Titans (NO)
32.  Oakland Raiders (@GB)

Written by Ilyn Yeh exclusively for TheFantasyFix.com

Follow The Fantasy Fix on Twitter @thefantasyfix

or  for Free Fantasy Sports Advice use our Quick Fix to get help with your team!


(October 22, 2011 - Photo by Nick Laham/Getty Images North America)

1.  San Francisco 49ers (STL) – The Niners defense has been great all year, and after a Thanksgiving day loss to the Ravens, I expect them to have a field day at home against the Rams.  The Rams have given up the most sacks in the league bye far.  Keep an eye on rookie Aldon Smith as he should have a big day.

2.  Chicago Bears (KC) – Palko is still the Chiefs’ starter, but that could change by the time this article is published.  Whether it’s Palko or Orton, I don’t think matters much for the Bears.  The Chiefs haven’t been able to do anything lately, and things will only get harder as they face Chicago at Soldier Field.  Huge day for the Bears forthcoming.

3.  Baltimore Ravens (@CLE) – This matchup on paper might scream that the Ravens should be the clear #1 this week.  Two things have them lower for me.  First, they’re on the road facing a divisional opponent.  Secondly, they’re coming off a big win in the Harbaugh Bowl.  Their games following other big wins (@TEN and @SEA after victories over PIT).  Should still be a very good play, but there is cause for slight concern.

4.  New England Patriots (IND) – That Patriots’ defense started the year off poorly, but since then has improved.  They get to face the winless colts with new starter Dan Orlovsky.  Colts will have to pass often, unless they decide to try to run the ball to shorten the game, and save themselves from further embarrassment.

5.  New York Jets (@WAS) – The Jets’ secondary didn’t look very good at times last week against Buffalo.  They are well aware that they were pretty lucky that Stevie Johnson couldn’t catch a perfectly thrown pass down the middle of the field late in the game.  I think they step up their game, and with Grossman back at the helm for the Redskins, that should mean some turnovers are coming.

6.  Dallas Cowboys (@ARI) – Last week against the Rams, Beanie Wells had a huge day for Arizona.  I doubt he’ll get the same opportunity this week, as Dallas should be able to score, which would force the Arizona QB (Skelton?Bartel?) to be forced to pass.  They haven’t been to successful this season, and I expect Ware to add to his sack lead this week.

7.  Atlanta Falcons (@HOU) – With T.J. Yates leading the Texans this week, it will be no surprise that Houston is going to lean on their running attack.  Rush defense has been Atlanta’s strength this year, as they’re second only to San Francisco.  If Atlanta can contain Foster and Tate early while putting some points on the board, Yates may be forced to make plays with his arm.  I can’t imagine a rookie third stringer to come in and excel.

8.  Philadelphia Eagles (@SEA) – Are the Eagles done trying?  It seems like every time that question is asked they come out and respond defensively.  It will be a tough environment for them to play in, but their talent on the defensive side of the ball is far superior to the Seahawks’ offense, that I think they are a good play this week.

9.  Houston Texans (ATL) – Matt Ryan has a TD:INT ratio of 12:5 at home, butonly 6:5 on the road.  This week he will face a tough test, as the Texans’ defense has been one of the surprises of the season.  Somehow they have been able to absorb the loss of Mario Williams, and continue t play at a high level.  If Yates can limit his turnovers, I think the Texans have a good shot at stifling the Falcons.  That’s a big if.

10.  Denver Broncos (@MIN) – Lost in the Tebow hype, has been the Denver defense.  They’ve performed great since Tebow took over(aside from the Detroit game).  With their offense running the ball almost exclusively, the game is also drastically shortened which limits their opponents’ possessions and opportunities to score.  Adrian Peterson has yet to be cleared, so this matchup should be a good one.

11.  New Orleans Saints (DET) – The Saints defense gave up a lot of yards to Eli and the Giants, but a lot of that came after the game was out of hand.  The Superdome is a tough place to play especially during a night game.  With Matthew Stafford’s recent interception woes, I expect the Saints to post a decent number.

12.  San Diego Chargers (@JAX) – Jacksonville fired Jack Del Rio today, so it will be interesting to see how they come out on Monday night.  The good news for the Chargers is that the Jaguars are sticking with Blaine Gabbert who has yet to prove to be a threat.  If Philip Rivers doesn’t hand touchdowns to the Jags this week, I think they’re a safe play.

13.  Green Bay Packers (@NYG)
14.  Oakland Raiders (@MIA)
15.  Pittsburgh Steelers (CIN)
16.  Jacksonville Jaguars (SD)
17.  Miami Dolphins (OAK)
18.  Minnesota Vikings (DEN)
19.  Tennessee Titans (@BUF)
20.  Cincinnati Bengals (@PIT)
21.  Tampa Bay Buccaneers (CAR)
22.  Buffalo Bills (TEN)
23.  Washington Redskins (NYJ)
24.  Cleveland Browns (BAL)
25.  Seattle Seahawks (PHI)
26.  Carolina Panthers (@TB)
27.  Kansas City Chiefs (@CHI)
28.  St. Louis Rams (@SF)
29.  New York Giants (GB)
30.  Arizona Cardinals (DAL)
31.  Detroit Lions (@NO)
32.  Indianapolis Colts (@NE)

Written by Ilyn Yeh exclusively for TheFantasyFix.com

Follow The Fantasy Fix on Twitter @thefantasyfix

or  for Free Fantasy Sports Advice use our Quick Fix to get help with your team!

(September 24, 2011 - Photo by Jamie Sabau/Getty Images North America)

1.  Pittsburgh Steelers (@KC) – It wasn’t surprising that the Kansas City Chiefs struggled on Monday night without starter Matt Cassel.  I had expected Tyler Palko to lead a vanilla offense that minimized risk and would struggle to move the ball down the field.  Instead we saw a similar offense as we have seen all season from the Chiefs and they were actually able to move the ball quite well at times.  The problem with the plan was that Palko was too often asked to make plays that he has never made at this level.  This led to 3 interceptions to go along with 3 sacks.  The Steelers’ defense is tougher than New England’s, and unless the scheme changes or Palko improves, this should be a big day for the Steelers.

2.  New York Jets (BUF) – The Jets lost to Tebow and the Broncos on Thursday night, but one can hardly blame the defense.  They gave up 226 yards of offense, and 7 of the 17 points given up were scored on a terrible throw by Mark Sanchez that was returned to the house.  The Bills offense has really been struggling as of late.  They managed only 2 field goals and a safety against the Dolphins while gaining 247 yards.  Ryan Fitzpatrick threw 2 interceptions, but the Bills also put the ball on the ground 4 more times and were lucky to recover them all.  It looks like the Bills will also be without their best weapon this week with Fred Jackson sustaining an injury to his calf.

3.  Cincinnati Bengals (CLE) – The Bengals defense has been a surprise all season and currently rank 7th in fantasy points scored.  This week they get to face the anemic Cleveland Browns who have scored 14.5 points per game on the season.  I wouldn’t be shocked if we see a defensive touchdown scored by the Bengals in this game.

4.  New England Patriots (@PHI) – The Patriots have played their best 2 defensive games of the season these past 2 weeks.  I have them ranked this high because I don’t expect Michael Vick to play, and while Vince Young can be dangerous in his own right he’s nowhere near the same threat as Vick.  Vince Young showed what we’ve come to expect from him on Sunday.  Some good plays to go along with some he scratchers that led to turnovers.  Should be more of those this week for the Pats.

5.  Baltimore Ravens (SF) – I expect the Ravens game against the Niners to be an entertaining defensive battle.  I think they will both make plays on the defensive end, but I think the Ravens offense is a bit more potent than that of the Niners.  Plus they’re at home, so I’m giving them a slim edge this week.

6.  San Francisco 49ers (@BAL) – This ranking is based on the “average” Joe Flacco showing up.  Some weeks Super Joe shows up (which would drop this ranking), other weeks Joe Succo shows up (which would bump this ranking).  I think the Niners are always going to be startable this year, but this week I expect their upside to be a bit less than normal because the Ravens limit their mistakes, and I don’t think SF will be able to stake out a large early lead like they have most of the year.

7.  Chicago Bears (@OAK) – The Bears defense has been playing spectacularly.  They are most likely going to cause all kinds of trouble for Carson Palmer, and we haven’t even touched on the Devin Hester factor.  What are the odds of him returning a punt in any single game?  The way he’s playing right now would it be a stretch to set those odds at 25%? 33%?  If each of his retuns are worth 6 points, that means he alone is worth 1.5-2 points per game for Chicago’s DST.

8.  Oakland Raiders (CHI) – The Raiders have been an up and down defensive unit this season, but it’s clear their best work has come at home.  I would probably have them outside my top 12 if Jay Cutler were playing, but I like the upside here with Caleb Hanie getting the nod.

9.  Atlanta Falcons (MIN) – I think Christian Ponder has a bright future in Minnesota, and will be fantasy relevant sooner rather than later.  That being said, he still makes too many mistakes, and if they are without Adrian Peterson he’ll be asked to do even more.

10.  Jacksonville Jaguars (HOU) – This has been the week all the Andre Johnson owners have been looking forward to, as it seemed he would be back no later than this week from his hamstring injury.  The good news is that he is indeed back.  The bad news is his quarterback is now Matt Leinart.  The Jacksonville run defense has been good all year, and I think they can cheat the run in this game now, and try to force Matt Leinart to beat them. 

11.  Tampa Bay Buccaneers (@TEN) – Jake Locker made some nice throws in relief of Matt Hasselbeck, but this week he’ll have to face a defense that is preparing for him.  It’s going to be tough sledding, unless Chris Johnson of old can finally show up to take some pressure off the quarterback.  I wouldn’t count on it.

12.  Houston Texans (@JAX) – The Texans defense has been a surprise all year, even after losing Mario Williams.  I would have them much higher on this list if they still had Matt Schaub.  I’m worried that Leinart may put their defensive in unfavorable positions, and also have concerns that the Texans won’t be able to string together many long possessions.

13.  San Diego Chargers (DEN)
14.  Seattle Seahawks (WAS)
15.  Arizona Cardinals (@STL)
16.  Dallas Cowboys (MIA)
17.  Miami Dolphins (@DAL)
18.  St. Louis Rams (ARI)
19.  Buffalo Bills (@NYJ)
20.  Denver Broncos (@SD)
21.  New Orleans Saints (NYG)
22.  New York Giants (@NO)
23.  Carolina Panthers (@IND)
24.  Philadelphia Eagles (NE)
25.  Cleveland Browns (@CIN)
26.  Green Bay Packers (@DET)
27.  Washington Redskins (@SEA)
28.  Tennessee Titans (TB)
29.  Minnesota Vikings (@ATL)
30.  Detroit Lions (GB)
31.  Indianapolis Colts (CAR)
32.  Kansas City Chiefs (PIT)

Written by Ilyn Yeh exclusively for TheFantasyFix.com

Follow The Fantasy Fix on Twitter @thefantasyfix

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(December 4, 2010 - Photo by Geoff Burke/Getty Images North America)

1.  Baltimore (@SEA) – The Ravens were able to mostly contain a really hot Steelers offense last week in a big division game in Pittsburgh.  This week they get a much less explosive Seahawks team.  Barring a letdown this should be a big game for Baltimore’s defense.

2.  Green Bay (MIN) – In week 7, Green Bay gave up 27 points to the Vikings in Christian Ponder’s first career start.  I think the rookie will realize that there’s a huge difference between playing at home and playing at Lambeau on Monday night.  I expect the Packers to come out firing on all cylinders, after a subpar performance in San Diego.  If Aaron Rodgers puts the Pack up early, the Vikings may not be able to run the ball with AP as much as they’d like to.

3.  Pittsburgh (@CIN) – The Steelers haven’t been giving up a ton of points and have been getting a fair share of sacks, but their lack of turnovers has been disappointing.  How does rookie Andy Dalton handle the pressure that Harrison and friends are going to bring?  I don’t expect Cedric Benson to have a lot of success on the ground, which could force Dalton to throw more than he’d like to.  Hopefully, for Pittsburgh owners, this leads to the turnovers that you’ve come to expect.

4.  Philadelphia (ARI) – On MNF, Jay Cutler looked as good as I’ve ever seen him.  He was making throws into small windows while avoiding the Eagles’ pressure.  I don’t think Kevin Kolb or John Skelton can make those throws.  The Eagles defense has really stepped up their game the past few weeks, and I expect more of the same.

5.  New York Giants (@SF) – The Giants defense looked unbelievable in the first half at Foxboro.  Brady was able to break through in the second half to put some points on the board, but the Niners’ offense is not anywhere near as explosive or efficient as the Patriots.  Look for the Giants to make this game the 27th straight regular season game with at least one forced turnover.

6.  Chicago (DET) – It was awfully impressive how the Bears were able to mostly keep up with the fastest offense in the league on Monday night.  They gave up 24 points to the Lions in Detroit, but without Jahvid Best, the Lions are still looking for a running game to compliment Stafford and Megatron.  Stafford is going to be on the ground an awfully lot in this game.

7.  San Francisco (NYG) – Without Ahmad Bradshaw, the Giants’ rushing attack is not as explosive.  That’s never good, but especially when they’re facing the #1 ranked rushing defense in San Francisco.  Eli Manning will have to do his best Peyton imitation for the Giants to put up points.  If Nicks is ruled out for week 10, it makes his job that much harder

8.  Detroit (@CHI) – The Lions have forced 18 turnovers so far this year, and they look to add to that number when they face Jay Cutler and the Bears.  As good as Jay Cutler looked against Philadelphia, he can easily look just as bad, and turn the ball over a ton.  Detroit is a high risk/high reward play this week.

9.  New York Jets (NE) – The Jets defense didn’t do a good job earlier in the year when they faced Tom Brady.  The good news is this week they get them at home.  The better news is that as the season has progressed the Jets’ defense has gotten better, while the Patriots’ offense has gotten worse.  Tom Terrific has looked more like Tom Slightly Above Average the past few games.  If the trend continues the Jets should be able to force some turnovers.

10.  San Diego (OAK) – While Carson Palmer looked much more comfortable last week against the Broncos, he did still throw 3 interceptions.  That makes 6 in 6 quarters.  Anytime you have a defense playing against a team that is turnover prone, good things happen.

11.  St. Louis (@CLE) – The Rams front line has played amazingly well the past two weeks, and this week they get to play against the Browns.  Chris Ogbonnaya is most likely going to be the Browns’ feature back again, and he’s not of NFL starter quality.  Rams should be a safe, but not great start this week.

12.  Dallas (BUF) – The Buffalo offense has not been as explosive as they started off the season.  The Cowboys defense has been embarrassing at times, but other times they have looked great.  I’m thinking that this week Demarcus Ware and the rest of the Cowboys will be able to put pressure on Fitzpatrick, which should cause him to add to his high interception total(9).

13.  Cincinnati (PIT)
14.  New England (@NYJ)
15.  Houston (@TB)
16.  Miami (WAS)
17.  Tampa Bay (HOU)
18.  New Orleans (@ATL)
19.  Atlanta (NO)
20.  Jacksonville (@IND)
21.  Kansas City (DEN)
22.  Indianapolis (JAX)
23.  Denver (@KC)
24.  Washington (@MIA)
25.  Tennessee (@CAR)
26.  Cleveland (STL)
27.  Carolina (TEN)
28.  Oakland (@SD)
29.  Seattle (BAL)
30.  Buffalo (@DAL)
31.  Arizona (@PHI)
32.  Minnesota (@GB)

Written by Ilyn Yeh exclusively for TheFantasyFix.com

Follow The Fantasy Fix on Twitter @thefantasyfix

or  for Free Fantasy Sports Advice use our Quick Fix to get help with your team!


(October 29, 2011 - Photo by Larry French/Getty Images North America)