 Andre Johnson (Credits Below) Time to fess up.
I acted like an expert every week during the football season posting my previews and predictions on this website, and it turns the advice I gave myself was not good enough to even make the playoffs in my main fantasy football league. I finished 6-6, fifth in a 10-team league and 1/2 game out of the playoffs.
Embarrassing for somebody who feels qualified to dish out advice to other fantasy football players.
So before I put the season behind me, I'm going back to my draft night to figure out what I did right and what went wrong with the hope that I can see some lessons to take into next year's draft.
This was a standard 10-team league and I had the No. 9 pick in a snake draft. I am going to list the player I took, see how it worked out, and then say who I would pick if I could do it over again. (For the latter category, I will only include possible players picked soon after the pick was made. We can all look back and say we should have taken Cam Newton in the third round, so for the purpose of this story, I am only including alternatives that went soon after my pick, guys that I could have realistically considered for the choice.)
This should be therapeutic for me, and I hope it works for you too.
Round 1, No. 9 overall, Andre Johnson
How'd it work out: Not well. Johnson is a guy I have always wanted to have on my fantasy team and so I took a shot even though I usually avoid receivers in the first round. Johnson seemed like the big stud who was never injured and could be counted on to be reliable every week and great in many weeks. This year he missed six weeks in a row with an injury and then the bye week meant he was out for the important stretch of weeks 5-11 and then he missed three games later in the year. After opening the season with three straight games of 15 points or more, he never reached that threshold again the rest of the year.
If I had it to do over: I'd take LeSean McCoy. The decision was McCoy or Johnson and I made the wrong choice.
Round 2, No. 12 overall, Frank Gore
How'd it work out: Not bad. I had Gore ranked higher than most people and took him a little earlier than many mock drafts were projecting, but I can't complain. Always an injury concern, he played every week and had double-digit carries in all but two games. In the 14 games he had at least 10 carries, he had 10 or more fantasy points in nine of them.
If I had it to do over: I'd take Drew Brees. As you will see later, I decided to wait on a quarterback and the choice worked out, but Brees was clearly the guy to take here.
Round 3, No. 29, Vincent Jackson
How'd it work out: Jackson was the ultimate boom-or-bust guy and looked like a third-round steal during the four weeks he had at least 18 fantasy points. Unfortunately, he resembled a late-round pick in the 10 weeks he scored in single digits. Still not sure why a veteran who is the clear No. 1 receiver on his team was so inconsistent.
If I had it to do over: I'd take Marques Colston, who had the same amount of 18-plus point performances and half of the single-digit outings that Jackson had.
Round 4, No. 32, Peyton Hillis
How'd it work out: Terrible. This is another guy I had rated higher than most people as I thought the injury-prone tag was allowing him to drop low enough in the draft to be a steal. Instead, he had one game in double digits during the first 14 weeks while missing six games due to injury.
If I had it to do over: I'd take Ryan Mathews, who had eight more double-digit performances than Hillis this year.
Round 5, No. 49, Percy Harvin.
How'd it work out: Not bad, if I could have survived his slow start. Harvin did not exceed 11 points in his first seven games and although some owners ditched him, I held on. I was rewarded with double-digit performances in seven of his final nine games, but if one of those had come earlier in the year maybe I would have been in the playoffs.
If I had it to do over: I'd take Harvin again. Like I said, if I had won a couple more games earlier in the year, his furious finish could have made him a team MVP.
Round 6, No. 52, Beanie Wells
How'd it work out: I thought this was Beanie's year as the guy to carry the workload for the Cards and it looked like a steal when he totalled 31.5 points in the first two weeks. Then, sigh, the usual injury problem arrived and he missed a game, and not trusting him the next week, I benched him for the 138-yard, three-touchdown game against the Giants and there were not many great performances the rest of the way.
If I had it to do over: Wes Welker would have been a good pick here, huh?
Round 7, No. 69, Matt Ryan
How'd it work out: Ryan struggled early and I benched him for Matthew Stafford the rest of the year and later traded Ryan for Marques Colston, so while I didn't get much out of Ryan, I did get good QB play and flipped him for a good receiver.
If I had it to do over: The next pick was Steve Smith, who I swore off after a disappointing 2010 season, but I wish I had believed in him one more time.
Round 8, No. 72, Sidney Rice
How'd it work out: Big bust here as his big-money reunion with Tavaris Jackson ended with him missing half the season due to injury and never scoring more than 14 points in a week.
If I had it to do over: Jordy Nelson, the next receiver taken in the draft.
Round 9, No. 89, Matthew Stafford
How'd it work out: My best pick of the draft, obviously. Just wish I was in a keeper league and could have him for a ninth-rounder again next year.
If I had it to do over: I'm sticking with Stafford.
Round 10, No. 92, Marcedes Lewis
How'd it work out: One of the biggest busts in all of fantasy football after never reaching double digits in a single week.
If I had it to do over: I have a hard time trusting rookie receivers, but wish I had believed in A.J. Green here.
Round 11, No. 109, Sam Bradford
How'd it work out: Not so well. How does a quarterback throw for more than 150 yards in 10 games and finish with six touchdown passes?
If I had it to do over: Bears defense would have given me a solid unit for the year.
Round 12, No. 112, Mike Thomas
How'd it work out: Another bad Jaguars' receiver that I cut early in the year and never got in my lineup.
If I had it to do over: Jimmy Graham, who would have made a nice replacement for Marcedes Lewis.
Round 13, No. 129, Ben Tate
How'd it work out: Took a shot here that Arian Foster might be out a while longer and that paid off with back-to-back 100-yard weeks to start the season for Tate, but I should have traded him then.
If I had it to do over: I never take a kicker this early, but Sebastian Janikowski would have been in my line-up all year if I had taken him here.
Round 14, No. 132, Dustin Keller
How'd it work out: Looked good after the first two weeks, but I cut him by midseason.
If I had it to do over: Antonio Brown would have been a nice sleeper receiver in this spot.
Round 15, No. 149, David Buehler
How'd it work out: He got hurt in the preseason and never played this year, so I cut him before the regular season.
If I had it to do over: Cam Newton went undrafted in our league, but this would have been a nice time to take a chance on the rookie QB.
Round 16, 152, Dolphins Defense
How'd it work out: Scored minus-4 in the first week and was gone from my roster.
If I had it to do over: Rob Gronkowski, another guy who went undrafted, would have been a nice pick in the final round.
Written by Steve Mims exclusively for TheFantasyFix.com. Follow Steve on Twitter @nwsportscardsFollow The Fantasy Fix on Twitter @thefantasyfixor for Free Fantasy Sports Advice use our Quick Fix to get help with your team!(January 14, 20122012-01-14 16:00:00 - Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images North America)
 Cam Newton (credits below) You SHOULD be playing fantasy football this week.
You probably aren't, but you should.
For some reason, the most important week for many football teams has become irrelevant for fantasy owners as most standard leagues have developed 16-week seasons.
It seems that an even number works best for most schedules and there is the crazy fear that every top player in the league will be rested, so the drama that comes from Week 17 has been eliminated from most fantasy leagues, and that's too bad.
I started playing fantasy football 25 years ago in a standard year-long points league that included every week of the season. If one of your guys was being rested for Week 17, it was a challenge that every other owner had to deal with too. I stayed in that league up until about five years ago, so this 16-week schedule is still a little new to me and I refuse to embrace it.
I hate ending the fantasy season when there is still one more week of football to go.
So if you are reading this, you're probably still playing, and that is the way it should be.
Here's a look at what to expect on Sunday:
Carolina at New Orleans: Cam Newton should finish up strong as he tries to keep up with the Saints and Steve Smith should be the guy hauling in those passes once again. New Orleans still has an outside shot at a first-round bye, so play all their studs like Drew Brees, Marques Colston, Darren Sproles, and Jimmy Graham.
Buffalo at New England: Ryan Fitzpatrick and Stevie Johnson could be sneaky plays this week as they take advantage of a weak New England pass defense that could be resting some guys. C.J. Spiller has become a solid RB2. I'd play Fitzpatrick over Brady in this game because the Pats have clinched a first-round bye, so I don't expect Brady, Welker or Gronkowski to be on the field in the second half.
Chicago at Minnesota: Toby Gerhart is a solid running back choice, especially if you had Adrian Peterson, and I like Percy Harvin to continue his strong late-season push. Kahlil Bell is a solid flex option.
New York Jets at Miami: The Jets have a tiny shot at the playoffs left, so they will play everyone, but that doesn't mean much because you can't count on any of them right now. I'd prefer Matt Moore, Reggie Bush, and Brandon Marshall as the top players for their position in this match-up.
San Francisco at St. Louis: The 49ers need a win to guarantee a first-round bye, so they will play everyone, but Frank Gore scares me because the 49ers may try to limit his carries if this game gets out of hand early, as expected. Steven Jackson is the only Ram you want.
Detroit at Green Bay: Should be a shootout between two playoff teams, but I only expect that for a half. I think both quarterbacks will put up big points early and Jordy Nelson and Calvin Johnson too. However, considering Matthew Stafford's injury history and Aaron Rodgers' importance to the Pack, I'd be surprised if either starter was in the game in the fourth quarter so it may sound strange, but you may want to look for options more reliable than two of the top fantasy quarterbacks.
Washington at Philadelphia: Nothing to play for here and I don't want any Redskins. I do think the Eagles will try to finish strong to save some pride from what has been an embarrassing season, so Michael Vick, DeSean Jackson, Brent Celek, Jeremy Maclin, and LeSean McCoy are all solid plays.
Indianapolis at Jacksonville: Maurice-Jones Drew and the Jacksonville defense are the only things to consider playing here.
Tennessee at Houston: Could be some nice fantasy performances here from Matt Hasselbeck, Chris Johnson, and Jared Cook. I'm staying away from the Texans. Andre Johnson is going to play, but not enough for me to start him and I think Arian Foster will at best share the workload with Ben Tate, but don't expect Foster to get many carries considering he battled a hamstring early and the Texans will need him in the playoffs.
Seattle at Arizona: Marshawn Lynch is my No. 2 running back behind Jones-Drew this week. Larry Fitzgerald is the only Cardinal I'd trust.
Kansas City at Denver: You know Tim Tebow is going to find a way to get into the playoffs and keep his storyline going another week, so he's a top 10 quarterback for me as he will get nearly 20 points. Willis McGahee and Demaryius Thomas are also solid plays. Dwayne Bowe is a solid WR2 and I think Kyle Orton could be a sneaky pick if you fear your regular starter will not play a full game, Orton could also get near 20 points.
Tampa Bay at Atlanta: LaGarrette Blount is about it for Tampa Bay at this time and the Falcons are another of those teams with little to play for before the playoffs. I'd feel fine needing something from Roddy White and Julio Jones, but I think Jacquizz Rodgers takes some carries to let Michael Turner rest and I'd be surprised if Matt Ryan was still in the game late in the third quarter especially considering the blowout this could become.
Baltimore at Cincinnati: Ravens must win to clinch a first-round bye, so Joe Flacco is another one of those guys I'd consider playing over guys like Rodgers/Stafford/Brady, who could exit early. Ray Rice is a good bet here and I like Torrey Smith with Anquan Boldin out again. Andy Dalton is another of those QBs to consider because you know he will play a full game.
Pittsburgh at Cleveland: Steelers are still playing for a possible first-round bye, but I'm not playing Ben Roethlisberger off an injury this week. Rashard Mendenhall is in for another big week and I think Mike Wallace and Antonio Brown are good plays. The Steelers defense is a top-five pick for the week. No Browns for me.
San Diego at Oakland: I think Philip Rivers, Malcolm Floyd, and Vincent Jackson have a big day passing the ball against the Raiders. Carson Palmer is a safe play along with Michael Bush and Denarius Moore.
Dallas at New York Giants: If Tony Romo is good to go, I think he puts up big numbers along with Laurent Robinson, Dez Bryant, Miles Austin, and Jason Witten, but if not, then I don't want any of those guys. Eli Manning, Victor Cruz, and Ahmad Bradshaw are all good bets for the week. Written by Steve Mims exclusively for TheFantasyFix.com. Follow Steve on Twitter @nwsportscards
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(December 3, 2011 - Photo by Al Messerschmidt/Getty Images North America)
 Eli Manning (credits below) Week 16 is only the penultimate week of the NFL season, but it is probably the ultimate week of your fantasy season.
If you are still alive, you are likely playing for a championship this week, so good luck.
And as for my advice, you shouldn't need it. At this point, you know your team and if you are playing in the championship game, go with the guys who got you here. Don't get too cute in Week 16.
I will pass along another dose of weekly advice, but I'm just going to touch on a few guys who could be an injury fill-in or come through in deeper leagues. I'm not going to recommend Aaron Rodgers, Maurice Jones-Drew, Calvin Johnson and the like here because you are obviously playing them.
So here's a sneaky play or two from each game this week should you need it, but again, don't get too cute this week or you will have eight months to stew over benching Marshawn Lynch in a tough matchup against San Francisco for Roy Helu, Felix Jones, or some back-of-the-month who may fall flat when you need him most.
Good luck, go with your gut...and these guys if you need them.
And most important, don't wait until Sunday to set your line-up because there are games on four different days this week with the bulk on Saturday.
Houston at Indianapolis: Kevin Walter could be the No. 1 receiver for the Texans against a bad defense with Andre Johnson out, but that has been the case in previous games and Johnson missed and Walter has not stepped up. Prime-time against the Colts could be his best bet. Donald Brown is a fine play if you need him, but don't bench Frank Gore or Reggie Bush for him.
Oakland at Kansas City: Michael Bush is the only guy in this game I want to pin my title hopes on, although Dwayne Bowe should be better in deeper leagues with Kyle Orton than he was with Tyler Palko.
Jacksonville at Tennessee: Injuries and uneven performances make me scared of either Titans quarterback, but Nate Washington gets a boost at receiver if Jake Locker starts and Jared Cook is not a bad gamble at tight end. Add injury this week to the already worrisome Chris Johnson, but if he's healthy then you have to play your No. 1 pick in the title game. It's that simple.
Miami at New England: Matt Moore in deeper leagues only, but Brandon Marshall is a WR2 candidate against the Patriots. Play all your usual Patriots and Aaron Hernandez is a starting tight end in fantasy even if he doesn't start for New England.
Arizona at Cincinnati: Tough to trust any Cardinal other than Larry Fitzgerald, although Beanie Wells is OK if you need him, but I just hope you have a better option. AJ Green's injury scares me and Andy Dalton is not nearly as good without his star rookie. Cedric Benson may be the best Bengal this week.
Denver at Buffalo: Tim Tebow is going to get over 20 points this week and Willis McGahee may get close to that number, but no way I'm counting on a Denver receiver right now. C.J. Spiller if you are desperate, but as I have said a few times, don't bench the running back who got you to the title game for a guy who has had one big week.
St. Louis at Pittsburgh: Steven Jackson is one of those steady studs that you keep counting out, but don't do that here. Play him if you've got him. If Ben Roethlisberger is out, I don't want any of his receivers and even if Roethlisberger plays, the passing game may be limited. I know Rashard Mendenhall has frustrated you all year, but playing the Rams bad run defense with his quarterback hurt is a good omen for 25 touches or so.
New York Giants at New York Jets: Two inconsistent teams with inconsistent fantasy players, not what you want in Week 16. Eli Manning and Hakeem Nicks are the only must-starts for me in this game, but an unexpected player is going to go off and I'm predicting that is Plaxico Burress.
Minnesota at Washington: Lots of wild cards here as Adrian Peterson could be back to full strength, but if not, he's tough to start. Percy Harvin, Toby Gerhart, Santana Moss, and Roy Helu have all been hit-or-miss recently and Moss would be my pick as the best of that bunch this week.
Tampa Bay at Carolina: LaGarrette Blount is risky, but I'd play him if necessary this week. Cam Newton has gotten you this far and he could have a big fantasy finale along with Steve Smith at home.
Cleveland at Baltimore: No thanks on any Browns. Ray Rice should have a huge day here and Joe Flacco is a top-12 quarterback for me this week. Torrey Smith in deeper leagues at receiver. Ravens defense is at the top of my list this week.
San Diego at Detroit: This could be the fantasy game of the day with Philip Rivers and Matthew Stafford each nearing 400 passing yards. Antonio Gates, Malcolm Floyd, Vincent Jackson, Calvin Johnson, Brandon Pettigrew could all go off and Titus Young and Nate Burleson too in deeper leagues. Ryan Mathews the only running back I'd play here.
Philadelphia at Dallas: Another fantasy shootout where Michael Vick, Brent Celek, LeSean McCoy, Tony Romo, Dez Bryant, Laurent Robinson, Jason Witten and Miles Austin are all playable in 10-team leagues. I'd feel OK taking a chance on home-run threats Desean Jackson and Felix Jones if you need them.
San Francisco at Seattle: This should be a defensive struggle, so hard for me to recommend any plays other than Marshawn Lynch, Frank Gore, and the 49ers defense.
Chicago at Green Bay: Hard to believe after the good start they had, but I trust no Bears in fantasy. On the other hand, I'd trust any Packers that have gotten you this far because this should be a bounceback blowout for Green Bay.
Atlanta at New Orleans: The Monday night game will determine the final outcome of hundreds of fantasy leagues and this is a great match-up for that. Drew Brees, Jimmy Graham, Marques Colston, Matt Ryan, Roddy White, Julio Jones, and Michael Turner could all put up big nights that rally teams for victory in the final fantasy game of the year. Lance Moore, Jaquizz Rodgers, Mark Ingram and Harry Douglas are the kind of sleepers that could become fantasy legends on Monday.Written by Steve Mims exclusively for TheFantasyFix.com. Follow Steve on Twitter @nwsportscards
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or for Free Fantasy Sports Advice use our Quick Fix to get help with your team!(December 17, 2011 - Photo by Al Bello/Getty Images North America)
 Nicks & G-Men (credits below) Still alive in the fantasy football playoffs?If you're reading this, that probably means you are.
I know I cut off all contact with fantasy football once my team is eliminated, so it's good to be alive in Week 15. No matter your league format, this week is likely an elimination round, so pay close attention to the injury news of the week before setting your line-up. Plus, there is a Saturday game thrown into the mix, so don't get caught off guard there either.
Good luck this week. Hope to see you back here next week.
Lets take a look at the week's games...
Jacksonville at Atlanta: For the 15th week in a row, Maurice Jones-Drew is the only Jaguar you want and boy, do you want him. He's been great as of late. Same can be said for Matt Ryan, so get him in your line-up along with both Roddy White and Julio Jones. I know Michael Turner has not been great lately, but he hasn't been terrible and chances are you don't have two backs better than him. I like the Falcons defense here too.
Dallas at Tampa Bay: The DeMarco Murray injury hurts in the fantasy playoffs, but it could be a blessing too. He had been on a downward spiral but his upside was too tough to bench. Now you can sit him and play a more reliable option. Felix Jones is not the answer, as I am not putting my playoff hopes on a guy who always seems to disappoint when given a chance to start. Tony Romo and Jason Witten are the only must-start Cowboys because that receiving group is too tough to predict. Miles Austin and Dez Bryant are the top options and can be started, but I think Laurent Robinson is down to a flex play. LaGarrette Blount is the only guy I want in Tampa Bay.
Carolina at Houston: This could be a shootout between a couple rookie quarterbacks who have been better than we thought. By now, Cam Newton and Steve Smith are reliable starters and T.J. Yates looked great last week. If he gets Andre Johnson back against the Panthers defense, he could get near 20 points per game again. Arian Foster will be better this week but he's the only running back in this game I would play.
Washington at New York Giants: Roy Helu is getting as close to trustworthy as a running back can be for Mike Shanahan, so I'd feel OK playing him this week. Santana Moss could be a sneaky play here too as he remains available in many leagues despite a strong return from injury. Ahmad Bradshaw killed his owners by missing a curfew and thus missing the first half of last week's game while Brandon Jacobs ran wild. If you have Bradshaw with no better alternatives, you need to forgive him and get him in the lineup because he should be in from the start this time. Don't buy into Brandon Jacobs at this late stage in the season. Eli Manning, Hakeem Nicks, and Victor Cruz are must-starts and Mario Manningham should see some targets here too.
Miami at Buffalo: This is one of those games that nobody wants to watch, but some unexpected player will come up with a career day that could give you a huge playoff boost, but he's probably on your bench. The greatest example of this was when Jerome Harrison ran for 286 yards and three scores for Cleveland in December of 2009, leaving all his owners wishing they had only known. Best chances for that type of unexpected performance here are Reggie Bush, C.J. Spiller, and Davone Bess.
Seattle at Chicago: Marshawn Lynch has become the No. 2 running back in my rankings behind Maurice Jones-Drew and a true fantasy playoff beast. If you have him, you're probably still playing and he'll come through for you again. He's the only guy to count on in this game.
New Orleans at Minnesota: Drew Brees was struggling for a half last week and still finished with nearly 30 points. That's the kind of QB you love in the playoffs because he's going to find a way to get you big points. Marques Colston looks great and Jimmy Graham, of course. Injuries have made Minnesota tough to predict, but Percy Harvin continues to be reliable.
Cincinatti at St. Louis: Should be a big day for Andy Dalton and A.J. Green here and I think this is another week that Jermaine Gresham and Jerome Simpson get into double digits. Cedric Benson too. Steven Jackson and Brandon Lloyd remain the only Rams to play.
Tennessee at Indianapolis: A lot of people are going to tell you this week that you should start Jake Locker if the Titans do. Don't buy it. I know Indy is bad, but Locker has always been overrated and this is another example. In a full game, I don't see him getting more than 12 points because his rushing yards will be negated by turnovers. Chris Johnson killed his owners again, but Indy could be the remedy he needs, so if you have him, you have to play him.
Green Bay at Kansas City: Greg Jennings owners are hurting. He gave you only two fantasy points before being hurt and now he's going to miss a boat race against the Chiefs. That injury could cost you 25 points over the two weeks. If you had him, pick up another Packers receiver because Donald Driver and James Jones are likely available. If James Starks is out, I think Ryan Grant is a viable RB2 who will score in double digits. Packers defense should score in the high teens.
Detroit at Oakland: Detroit's passing game is becoming tough to trust and on the road, I'm not as high as usual on Matthew Stafford or Calvin Johnson. Injuries and unpredictability makes Maurice Morris and Kevin Smith hard to trust either. I'd avoid Oakland's passing game as well and just play Michael Bush is Darren McFadden is out again.
New England at Denver: This should be fun to watch and I think Tom Brady, Wes Welker and Rob Gronkowski will be as reliable as usual, but you're not trusting their run game. Tim Tebow will find a way to 15 or 16 points and Eric Decker and Demaryius Thomas could benefit from a poor New England pass defense. I like Willis McGahee to top 100 yards on the ground.
New York Jets at Philadelphia: Love the running backs, Shonn Greene and LeSean McCoy, but hard to trust either passing game. Michael Vick and Mark Sanchez are in the top 10-15 range this week and I think Dustin Keller and Brent Celek could be among the best tight ends. I can't put my faith in any of the wide receivers, even DeSean Jackson.
Cleveland at Arizona: No Browns for me, thanks. This has the feel of one of those big Beanie Wells days, who is up and down but should be up here. I like him as an RB2 and Larry Fitzgerald is the only other Cardinal in my line-up.
Baltimore at San Diego: I think both quarterbacks will have decent days, 18-20 points and I love Ray Rice to go off here. Antonio Gates is another great bet and I think Vincent Jackson gets into double digits.
Pittsburgh at San Francisco: Even if Ben Roethlisberger plays, he will be limited and facing a tough defense on the road, so I would look elsewhere for a quarterback. Rashard Mendenhall may be the best fantasy bet for the Steelers. Frank Gore is the only 49er that I really like, but Vernon Davis is a sneaky play at tight end. Written by Steve Mims exclusively for TheFantasyFix.com. Follow Steve on Twitter @nwsportscards
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(December 3, 2011 - Photo by Al Bello/Getty Images North America)
 Michael Vick (credits below) Welcome to Week 14 of fantasy football, hopefully you are still alive and in the playoffs.
The playoffs began in many leagues last week and others begin the postseason this week. So you could be way ahead, way behind, or stuck in a tight battle in a league with two-week playoff rounds or just getting your postseason started.
Either way, line-up decisions are getting more important to make, and more difficult as well. Injuries, particularly trying to figure out which players need to play through injury and which can afford a week or two of rest depending on their team's position, are ramped up this week and we are also seeing teams giving some younger guys a chance to play at the expense of a veteran that you may be counting on.
Either way, we'll try to get you advancing on to Week 15.
Cleveland at Pittsburgh: When Cleveland is on offense, the Pittsburgh defense is the only one you want on your roster. Ben Roethlisberger should put on a prime-time performance with Antonio Brown and Mike Wallace proving last week there is enough balls to go around to keep both of them fantasy starters. Rashard Mendenhall is a good play too.
Kansas City at New York Jets: Kansas City is another team you want no part of except for the opponents' defense, so play the Jets D if you can. You don't love many of your Jets either, although the match-up with the Chiefs is tempting to play Shonn Greene and Dustin Keller in standard leagues and Mark Sanchez and Santonio Holmes in deeper leagues.
Tampa Bay at Jacksonville: I see a defensive struggle here with both defenses a safe pick-up if you are in need. Maurice Jones-Drew is the only offensive player I want in my lineup for the playoffs.
New England at Washington: Tom Brady will air it out and Wes Welker and Rob Gronkowski are obvious picks, but there could be enough touchdowns to make Aaron Hernandez a reliable tight end as well. I love the Patriots defense as the Redskins are another team with nobody I want in my playoff lineup.
Atlanta at Carolina: This will be a shootout and you can count on another big day from Cam Newton and Steve Smith. Matt Ryan should get near 20 fantasy points too and those who have been disappointed by taking Roddy White early in the draft should get their reward in time for the playoffs.
Indianapolis at Baltimore: The Baltimore defense is your top unit this week while Joe Flacco, Ray Rice, and Anquan Boldin should be among the best at their position.
Philadelphia at Miami: Mike Vick back just in time for the fantasy playoffs, but I have a hard time trusting him in his return. If I've got another QB playing well in recent week or with a favorable matchup, I might think about keeping Vick on the bench and going with my other alternative. I've given up (finally!!) on DeSean Jackson, so Brent Celek and LeSean McCoy are the only Eagles I like. Matt Moore is a nice deeper league play while Reggie Bush and Brandon Marshall are flex calls in standard leagues.
Minnesota at Detroit: Love the Lions to bounce back here with a big offensive day from Matthew Stafford, Calvin Johnson, and Maurice Morris and their defense is a safe play as well. You hope to get Adrian Peterson back for the playoffs, but if not, Toby Gerhart should be a capable fill-in and I also like Percy Harvin to make more big plays.
New Orleans at Tennessee: I see a slight setback for the Saints passing game, so while Brees will still be good, Marques Colston and Jimmie Graham are the only receivers I feel real good about. Mark Ingram could continue to see a bigger workload and get into double digits for fantasy points. Chris Johnson is the only Titan you want.
Houston at Cincinnati: Andy Dalton is one of those lower-rated quarterbacks I might consider over Michael Vick this week because I think he will get 18-20 points and Jermaine Gresham and AJ Green are solid starts along with Cedric Benson. The Bengals defense is also a good play against an injury-plagued Texans team. I want no part of Houston's passing game, but Arian Foster is obvious and Ben Tate should be fine in deeper leagues.
Chicago at Denver: The Bears are a mess on offense and suddenly have no must-starts. I am buying Marion Barber as an RB2 who can get you yards and touchdowns, but I trust nobody in Chicago's passing game. Tim Tebow gets you his usual 18 points and Willis McGahee is good here is healthy. Eric Decker and Demaryius Thomas are too risky for me.
San Francisco at Arizona: Frank Gore has disappointed lately, but should bounce back here and get over 100 yards and a score. Alex Smith and Michael Crabtree in deeper leagues only. Love the Niners defense here. Tough match-up for Beanie Wells, so I wouldn't trust him, making Larry Fitzgerald the only must-start Cardinal.
Buffalo at San Diego: I think this is high-scoring so Ryan Fitzpatrick could be back to his Week 12 level and Stevie Johnson should be good. C.J. Spiller is a decent flex too. Love the Chargers here with Philip Rivers, Vincent Jackson, Malcolm Floyd, and Ryan Matthews all worth the risk in standard leagues.
Oakland at Green Bay: The Raiders are beaten up, so check the inactives list, but it is hard to think anyone other than Michael Bush is a good play for them. Meanwhile, play all the Packers you usually play.
New York Giants at Dallas: Another shootout, so get your studs in the game. Eli Manning will throw the ball a lot so Victor Cruz and Hakeem Nicks are both must starts and I think Jake Ballard will be a reliable tight end. Dallas is another team to keep an eye on inactives, so play Tony Romo and DeMarco Murray and Dez Bryant, and if healthy, Miles Austin and Laurent Robinson.
St. Louis at Seattle: Love the Seahawks defense here and Marshawn Lynch, but that is about it for Seattle. Not much to like on the Rams other than Steven Jackson and Brandon Lloyd. Written by Steve Mims exclusively for TheFantasyFix.com. Follow Steve on Twitter @nwsportscards
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(October 29, 2011 - Photo by Chris Trotman/Getty Images North America)
 Aaron Rodgers (credits below) The playoffs start in many fantasy leagues this week or else this is likely the final week to try and get into the playoffs in others, but either way, there are huge decisions to be made.
You don't want to be like the owner who benched Beanie Wells last week for Frank Gore and had his playoff chances end with a six-point loss that could have been an easy win with Wells in the lineup.
This is the time of the year you think hard about whether or not you want to go with Vincent Jackson and his boom-or-bust style or a more reliable Marques Colston. Are you going to ride out free-agent find Laurent Robinson with the season on the line? Can you trust Andre Johnson with T.J. Yates at quarterback.
Plenty of questions, so lets look for some answers.
Philadelphia at Seattle: Vince Young is putting up numbers, but I don't trust him in anything less than a 12-team league. Keep an eye on DeSean Jackson's status before the game and whether he is in the starting lineup – if you need a big-play possibility, take the risk and play him. He has been close to catching a couple long scoring passes in recent weeks, but has been so frustrating to his owners because of his inconsistency. He even got benched late last week, but one of these weeks, he's going to catch those long bombs and get in the end zone and maybe even score on a punt return, so if he's been forgiven by Andy Reid, you should forgive as well. LeSean McCoy is suddenly dropping in performance but I expect that to change even against a tough Seahawks run defense. Marshawn Lynch is approaching top-10 status for a running back so he is the only reliable Seahawk in fantasy.
Carolina at Tampa Bay: Mike Williams is trying to repay those owners who were frustrated by him early in the season but held onto him and this should be his best game yet. Josh Freeman is a nice play in deeper leagues as well and LaGarrette Blount's sudden impact in the passing game makes him a must-start. Cam Newton and Steve Smith remain reliable, but Jonathan Stewart and DeAngelo Williams are impossible to trust.
Cincinnati at Pittsburgh: Tough match-up for Andy Dalton, but I've said that before and he's been fine, so he's right around 15 in my rankings this week. AJ Green should bounce back as he gets healthier this week. Ben Roethlisberger will be good and Mike Wallace should re-emerge as his favorite deep threat here.
Atlanta at Houston: Don't love the Falcons other than Michael Turner here on the road against an improving defense. The biggest question surrounds Houston's passing game. Can T.J. Yates find Andre Johnson with another week of practice. He should, but I'm not counting on it. I think Arian Foster and Ben Tate could both get 20 carries and have monster games on the road, but I fear Johnson may be a guy who struggles to get more than 65 receiving yards per week the rest of the season. It's a tough deal for his owners who waited more than a month for him to return, then saw his top two quarterbacks go out for the season as he returned.
Denver at Minnesota: Percy Harvin is a receiver I am playing over Andre Johnson this week. I pumped up Harvin all year and it looks like his health and opportunities will finally come together to provide a nice final few games for him. I think he could be a 20-point fantasy performer this week because he has just missed a couple of touchdowns in each of the past two weeks. I don't want Christian Ponder or Toby Gerhart here. Tim Tebow will get you his 15 points and I think Eric Decker will have a nice day in the return to his college town. Willis McGahee is officially back to RB2 status.
New York Jets at Washington: I like the Jets to breakout here with Mark Sanchez, Plaxico Burress, Santonio Holmes, and Shonn Green all having an above-average day. Considering the poor performances from those guys this season, an above-average performance doesn't necessarily mean worthy of playing in a 10-team league, but if you have to play them, you can feel good about it. Mike Shanahan has proven before that one good week for one of his running backs does not signal a pattern, so trust Roy Helu at your own risk because I am not trusting him or anyone on that offense this week.
Indianapolis at New England: Play your studs, Peyton Manning, Reggie Wayne, and Dallas Clark in Indy's annual shootout with New....oops, this is 2012 and for the first time in six years, the story line for this game changes. Now it's bench all your Colts, play all your Pats and turn away from the bloodbath that is about to emerge.
Oakland at Miami: Play Michael Bush even if Darren McFadden returns because I think Bush gets most of the carries either way and I'd keep McFadden on your bench even if he plays unless you are desperate. I like Carson Palmer to post top-16 quarterback numbers, but I'm not willing to put my playoff hopes on the line by trusting any of his receivers. Matt Moore has emerged as a legitimate quarterback in deep and two-quarterback leagues and I expect Brandon Marshall and Reggie Bush to be good here.
Tennessee at Buffalo: Chris Johnson found his stride just in time for the fantasy playoffs. At least, that's the hope of owners who need him to repeat last week's performance for the next few weeks. Tough to count on him, but if you've got him, you have to play him. Ryan Fitzpatrick is another guy who shook off a slump to have a big performance last week. I'm not willing to ride him into the playoffs and the same goes for Stevie Johnson.
Kansas City at Chicago: Kyle Orton makes his Chiefs debut against his former team and that is a recipe for disaster for him and the entire Chiefs offense. Get the Bears defense in your lineup and don't worry about Matt Forte's recent struggles, he'll get over 140 total yards and a score here.
Baltimore at Cleveland: The Ravens defense is the fantasy stud here as I wouldn't trust any Browns on offense. If you want to trust Peyton Hillis, go ahead, but he could have 13 yards as easily as he could have 100. This will be a good week for Joe Flacco, Ray Rice, and Anquan Boldin.
Dallas at Arizona: So, to the question posed earlier, yes I will play Laurent Robinson with a lot on the line this week. Can't deny five straight weeks of production. I like Tony Romo, Dez Bryant, and DeMarco Murray also, as usual. You have to play Beanie Wells if he looks healthy because he could be almost all the offense for the Cardinals with Larry Fitzgerald as the only other fantasy player on their team.
Green Bay at New York Giants: Look for a shootout here with Aaron Rodgers getting close to the 40-point week Drew Brees posted on the Giants last week. Jordy Nelson, Greg Jennings, and Jermichael Finley are all must-plays with Donald Driver and James Jones as safe bets in deeper leagues. The Giants' passing game will keep up with Green Bay so get Eli Manning, Hakeem Nicks, and Victor Cruz in all line-ups.
St. Louis at San Francisco: As good as Frank Gore was during a full month of 100-yards games, he has been equally frustrating battling injuries and seemingly having his role limited in the last month. You have to play him and hope for a bounceback game here against the Rams. The 49ers defense is a great play this week and Alex Smith should be productive. Brandon Lloyd and Steven Jackson are safe standard-league plays for the Rams.
Detroit at New Orleans: Another shootout, although I said that about last week's Lions/Packers game and then watched Matthew Stafford struggle to reach double figures. Stafford's interceptions are a problem, but at this point in the season, you likely have no alternative but to play him and hope he can overcome them and post a big total like he did two weeks ago. Hard to trust any of his running backs unless Kevin Smith is out for sure and Maurice Morris is the lone option in the backfield. Drew Brees is in line for another huge day and Marques Colston too along with the usual output from Jimmie Graham. Lance Moore and Darren Sproles both flex guys to take a chance on this week.
San Diego at Jacksonville: Maurice Jones-Drew is the only Jaguar to play as usual, but what to make of the Chargers. You would think a Jacksonville defense with a new head coach would be ripe for Philip Rivers and Vincent Jackson, but those two have become impossible to predict. The Chargers seem to particularly struggle on prime-time games, so going across the country on Monday night, I can't trust Rivers but Jackson is at least a WR2 who could be the top receiver in all of fantasy football as he's been a few times this year. Ryan Mathews is becoming the most reliable Charger. Written by Steve Mims exclusively for TheFantasyFix.com. Follow Steve on Twitter @nwsportscards
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(November 19, 2011 - Photo by Elsa/Getty Images North America)
 Here comes the final week of the regular season for most fantasy leagues, and it begins with three games on Thanksgiving featuring teams with a lot of fantasy players.
The most important week of the season up to this point for most fantasy leagues, and we get a great tripleheader that should keep most of us glued to the TV all day on Thursday. You gotta love the way the football schedule worked out.
Add in a Monday night game between the Giants and Saints, two more fantasy-friendly teams, and you have a five-day window when every fantasy team could have somebody playing a game.
Can't wait, so lets check out the match-ups.
Green Bay at Detroit: After so many years of dreading having to watch the Lions on Thursday, we get the best Thanksgiving Day game I can remember in the last decade. Should be a shootout with Aaron Rodgers and Matthew Stafford both throwing more than 40 times. Big day coming for Jordy Nelson and Calvin Johnson and I'd take a shot on the tight ends, Brandon Pettigrew and Jermichael Finley as well. Stay away from the running game because James Starks is questionable and even with a full workload, I don't like Ryan Grant here. Kevin Smith is a nice pick-up in deeper leagues, but I don't trust him to repeat last week's performance with the Lions likely throwing a lot from behind. Both defenses have solid ownership, but bench them here.
Miami at Dallas: Have to love your Cowboys here, so get Tony Romo, Dez Bryant, and Jason Witten in for sure and Laurent Robinson is a solid flex. DeMarco Murray owners were relieved to see him get 25 carries even with Felix Jones, so you will get another big day from him. Matt Moore is fine in a 16-team league and Reggie Bush has become a good flex option. Look for Brandon Marshall to bounce back from his no-show last week.
San Francisco at Baltimore: Finally, a week you can feel good about Frank Gore's health and even against Baltimore, I look for him to have a big day. I've been pumping up Michael Crabtree for a while so nice to see him come through last week and he and Alex Smith are safe plays in a 16-team league. Tough matchup for Ray Rice, but you play him if you've got him. I've got Joe Flacco in my bottom half of quarterbacks this week but Torrey Smith has become a solid flex who can perform like a No. 1 receiver on some weeks.
Houston at Jacksonville: Welcome back Andre Johnson, we missed you. Now pick up where you left off. Sounds like he's close to 100 percent and even with Matt Leinart, I think he can get 100 yards and a score. Arian Foster will have a huge day and I think the Texans run enough to get Ben Tate 50 yards and a score. As usual for the Jags, it's just Maurice Jones-Drew although I do think the re-emergence of Marcedes Lewis this week makes him a decent play if you are struggling to find a tight end.
Buffalo at New York Jets: Both teams struggling on offense and there isn't much to like in Buffalo with Stevie Johnson and Fred Jackson both injured. If Jackson is healthy, he's the only Bill worth starting. Tough to feel confident in any Jets this week either. Shonn Greene blew a chance to be the feature back last week and I think Joe McKnight becomes a bigger part of the offense, so don't trust any of them especially if LaDanian Tomlinson returns. Santonio Holmes may be the best bet for the Jets, but another risky play.
Cleveland at Cincinatti: Chris Ogbannaya almost beat me in a fantasy match-up last week, so I am not ready to call him a one-week wonder. He went over 100 yards and scored a TD and if Monterio Hardesty is back, I want no part of either of them. But if no Hardesty, I'm fine with taking a chance on Ogbannaya. Andy Dalton has a tough second-half schedule, but this is the breather in the middle so he should be a good play and A.J. Green too, if he is healthy. Even if Green is healthy, I think Jerome Simpson is finding a niche with Dalton and should have another solid week. Jermaine Gresham is another good play against the Browns. I picked up the Cinci defense this week and feel good about it.
Minnesota at Atlanta: I'm back in on Percy Harvin as the Vikings seem to finally have found ways to get him the ball. He could be their top option receiving and rushing if Adrian Peterson is out so I think he's a WR2 this week. I don't like Toby Gerhart in anything but deeper leagues even if Peterson is out. Matt Ryan will continue his second-half surge and Roddy White could be the guy this week, but you've heard that before, so beware. Michael Turner will be good here.
Arizona at St. Louis: Be healthy Beanie Wells, and be the feature back all your owners want. The Rams give him a great opportunity to run and I think he's in for his best week in more than a month. Arizona defense seems like a crazy pick, but against the Rams, they are not a bad pick-up. Steven Jackson the only Ram to play.
Carolina at Indianapolis: Cam Newton should copy last week's numbers minus the interceptions, so feel good about him and Steve Smith. Jonathan Stewart is getting plenty of touches and has re-emerged as at least a solid flex. Panthers defense is another good one to pick up if your regular defense has a tough match-up because you are not playing any Colts.
Tampa Bay at Tennessee: Welcome to the season, Josh Freeman and Mike Williams, but I haven't seen enough consistency from those guys to count on two big weeks in a row. LaGarrett Blount, however, I do trust to repeat his performance. Just when you thought Chris Johnson was back, he tosses up another stinker, but if you have him, you still have to play him especially if Jake Locker starts at quarterback and the Titans look to run.
Chicago at Oakland: With Jay Cutler out, expect a lot of Matt Forte and he's the only Bear to trust. Oakland defense should pile up points at home against Caleb Hanie. Michael Bush owners hoping Darren McFadden sits another week and it looks like he might. I think Carson Palmer struggles here and it is impossible to count on any Oakland receivers these days.
Washington at Seattle: I think the Seahawks defense will outscore any Redskins offensive player. I think Sidney Rice is beginning a strong stretch run so I don't have a problem starting him and Marshawn Lynch should be good again here too.
Denver at San Diego: We've all heard enough about Tim Tebow, so just play him and watch in amazement as he finds his way to 17 points. Willis McGahee should bounce back here. Philip Rivers should finally come through with one of those weeks you expected from him all year and I like Vincent Jackson to finally put a couple good weeks together. Play Ryan Mathews as well.
New England at Philadelphia: Not sure what happened to the Patriots last week, but no reason to expect Tom Brady and Wes Welker to slow down two weeks in a row. Rob Gronkowski is obvious, but what about Aaron Hernandez? I traded for him this week thinking the Pats' soft schedule could lead to some big weeks for him down the stretch, but I don't expect that to start just yet. Play the Eagles quarterback even if it is Vince Young because Philly will move the ball at home against New England. I think DeSean Jackson gets deep once or twice and Brent Celek will be reliable again.
Pittsburgh at Kansas City: Play Ben Roethlisberger if healthy, but if not, don't be tempted to pick up Charlie Batch. Raise Rashard Mendehall's stock if Roethlisberger is out and expect less than usual out of Mike Wallace. Heath Miller could be a good play regardless of who plays quarterback. Tyler Palko reduces Dwayne Bowe to a flex play and none of their running backs are fantasy starters.
New York Giants at New Orleans: Expect a shootout here, so get Eli Manning and all three of his main receivers in your lineup, even Mario Manningham, who could bounce back. Drew Brees is also solid, but other than Marques Colston, his receivers and running backs are too unpredictable to count on.
Written by Steve Mims exclusively for TheFantasyFix.com. Follow Steve on Twitter @nwsportscards
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 Aaron Rodgers (credits below) New York Jets at Denver: I haven't liked Shonn Greene much this year, but with Tomlinson out this week, I think Greene is a solid RB2. Mark Sanchez has been sneaky good this year and will be above average this week and I like both Santonio Holmes and Plaxico Burress to get touchdowns, but their yardage will be around 70. Everyone talks about how Tebow somehow finds a way to 15-18 points each week, but I don't see it here. More like 10 against the Jets. If Willis McGahee doesn't play, Lance Ball could get 30 carries so he's worth a pick-up, and if McGahee plays, you love him. Jets defense will be worth double digits this week.
Tampa Bay at Green Bay: Bucs will trail big just like the Vikings on Monday night so Josh Freeman will have a good fantasy day and I'd take one last shot on Mike Williams here. Preston Parker and Arrelious Benn are worth a risk in deeper leagues because they will get targets. Hate LaGarrette Blount here because Buccaneers will have to pass and he's not a part of that. The Packers defense will give up some points, but also get some turnovers to get into double digits. I like James Starks as a flex here and of course all the Packers receivers.
Carolina at Detroit: Big week for the Lions who have gone from early-season darlings into a slide and now there are injury concerns for both Matthew Stafford and Calvin Johnson. Let's hope those two are healthy and play but I can't recommend any other Lions. This is becoming a two-man fantasy team. Cam Newton appears to be sliding a bit, but he and Steve Smith will bounce back this week. Like the Lions, this may be a two-man fantasy team.
Jacksonville at Cleveland: Those of us who picked up the Jags' defense last week were rewarded and we must play them again. Maurice Jones-Drew is a top-five running back this week and I think Mike Thomas gets more involved and becomes a deeper-league play. If you have Chris Ogbonnaya, he's going to get 20 touches and he was better last week than his first start so I think he's even better this week.
Oakland at Minnesota: Michael Bush has become a top-10 running back when starting, so play him if McFadden is out. Carson Palmer should have his best game and Denarius Moore has become a legit WR2 especially against a Vikings defense that's questionable and playing on a short week. Adrian Peterson is your only Viking to play. I'm officially off the Percy Harvin bandwagon.
Buffalo at Miami: The Bills are another team that has fallen from early-season surprise into a midseason swoon and I don't expect that to change here. Stevie Johnson is questionable and Ryan Fitzpatrick is struggling, so Fred Jackson remains your only reliable Bill. The Reggie Bush revival continued last week so I'd keep riding him along with Brandon Marshall.
Dallas at Washington: This is the week we find out just how much Felix Jones will hurt DeMarco Murray and I don't expect it to be much. Remain confident in Murray this week and you're also playing Tony Romo, Jason Witten, Dez Bryant, and Laurent Robinson. Just when you think you finally know what Mike Shanahan will do, he puts Roy Helu on the bench for the first half one week after his 140-yard performance. That's it, no longer trusting any Redskins.
Cincinnati at Baltimore: The match-ups are getting tougher for Andy Dalton and A.J. Green may be out, so look elsewhere for a quarterback. I don't want any part of the Bengals run game this week either. Baltimore has become totally unpredictable so Ray Rice is the only guy I'd feel comfortable playing although Torrey Smith is getting closer and closer to another game with multiple long touchdowns, so I'd take a flyer on him in deeper leagues. Billy Cundiff will bounce back at kicker and Ed Dickson was a one-week wonder.
Arizona at San Francisco: Larry Fitzgerald is the only Cardinal worth playing. Even if Beanie Wells got a clean bill of healthy, he'd struggle against the 49ers defense. I love the SF defense here. Frank Gore is sounding less likely to play, so keep an eye on Kendall Hunter and pick him up if Gore can't go. Hunter is even a RB2 if he get the full workload. Alex Smith will give you a decent week and Michael Crabtree should start to put up bigger numbers.
Seattle at St. Louis: Hard to find a player you want to play here beyond the running backs. Marshawn Lynch should continue his second-half surge and Steven Jackson won't be slowed by the tough Seattle run defense. Brandon Lloyd is the only other player I want in this game.
Tennessee at Atlanta: Chris Johnson looks to be rounding into form and will get over 100 yards again. Another good week for Matt Hasselbeck as well with Damian Williams as his new favorite target. Those who gave up on Matt Ryan have regretted it two weeks in a row and he will continue to post big numbers here.
San Diego at Chicago: Where did you go Vincent Jackson? Yet another disappearing act and I don't see him bouncing back against the Bears. Could be a long day for Philip Rivers as well and don't pick up Vincent Brown for this week. Matt Forte will bounce back with a big game and Earl Bennett is legit as Cutler's top target and is a solid flex play.
Philadelphia at New York Giants: I traded for DeSean Jackson this week. Crazy, I know, but I've got a weird feeling about this one. He should be motivated to make up for last week to his teammates and finish this contract year strong, plus his upcoming schedule is great after this week. Even if Michael Vick can't play, I see Jackson finally producing the rest of the season starting against the Giants. Brent Celek has regained his status as a top-10 tight end from a few years ago. Count on Eli Manning to come through again and Mario Manningham should be his top target this week.
Kansas City at New England: Who thought this would be a good prime-time game? This looked bad with Matt Cassel as Kansas City's quarterback and even worse now with Tyler Palko. Jackie Battle should get plenty of work until this game gets out of hand, which could be in the middle of the second quarter. Play all your Patriots, even the defense this week.
Written by Steve Mims exclusively for TheFantasyFix.com. Follow Steve on Twitter @nwsportscards
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or for Free Fantasy Sports Advice use our Quick Fix to get help with your team!(November 13, 2011 - Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images North America)
 The Meadowlands (credits below) Thursday night football is here and to me, that means the start of playoff positioning for those of us lucky enough to still be alive for the postseason in fantasy football. Thursday games are awesome. There is only one and not everyone has the NFL Network to watch, but just getting an early start for a player or two in my league gets the excitement started early.
This is a weird week, a bye for bye weeks before the final bye week next week. Confusing I know, but so is the NFL's decision to split up late bye weeks. Not sure whey the NFL didn't make all the bye weeks consecutive, but you get a break from byes for the first time since Week 5, so if your team is healthy, you are ready to go.
Here is a look at the week:
Oakland at San Diego: Who would have thought we'd have a week when the only sure thing for the Raiders is Michael Bush. With McFadden out, play Bush against the Chargers, but don't play Carson Palmer and good luck with their receivers. Ford, Heyward-Bey, Moore, Reese? Who knows who will get the passes now? I was riding the Heyward-Bey train for a few weeks, but I trust the Raiders no more and dumped him for Laurent Robinson. I even considerd playing Heyward-Bey over Vincent Jackson last week because he had been more consistent in recent weeks, but thank goodness I didn't. Nice to see you again Vincent, now please put back-to-back good weeks together and I am betting he does. Phillip Rivers should be good again too.
Arizona at Philadelphia: Beanie Wells, oh, Beanie Wells. Just when your owners like me started to get excited, you post 3.3 points and I no longer trust you anymore. Larry Fitzgerald is the only Cardinal to play, but I wouldn't even be too excited about him. I picked up the Philly defense this week and you should too. I got lucky last week when my trade offer for a buy-low DeSean Jackson for sell-high DeMarco Murray was rejected. Thanks for that. With DeSean, you are now just praying for a couple deep balls and those could come this week. Michael Vick, Jeremy Maclin, LeSean McCoy and Brent Celek should come through against Arizona as well.
Tennessee at Carolina: I also tried to buy-low on Chris Johnson and was rejected and I stick by that plan. Johnson will build on last week's performance, but hard to trust any other Titans. Cam Newton and Steve Smith will find a way once again this week.
Houston at Tampa Bay: Come on back Andre Johnson, I need you. However, I think he will get another week off before the bye despite good reports from him early this week in practice. Ben Tate was great last week, but I can never start a back-up running back because those dual 100-yard rushing performances from him and Arian Foster last week are a rarity. If you have a starting running back in the league, keep him in over Tate. LaGarrette Blount is a top-20 running back, but no other Bucs are ready for a 10-team league.
Washington at Miami: Well, hello Helu, maybe you are finally the guy who Shanahan will rely on at running back in back-to-back weeks. Pick him up if he's available, but I'm not playing him until he is the feature back for at least two weeks in a row. Matt Moore, AFC offensive player of the week. I say that again and again and I still don't believe it. Reggie Bush with a 20-point week. I say that over and over again as well and can't believe it. Trust those guys to do it again at your own risk.
Jacksonville at Indianapolis: There is officially no Colt I would count on, not even Reggie Wayne. Maurice Jones-Drew the only Jaguar to trust as usual, but I'm taking a flyer on their defense this week. From this point forward, I may just try to pick up whatever defense is playing Indy each week.
Denver at Kansas City: Last week I picked up the Oakland defense, figuring whoever played Tebow would get plenty of turnovers and sacks. I got minus-5 from the Raiders defense, so that plan has gone away. Tebow will find his way to 15-20 points each week and those who feared Eric Decker would become useless with Tebow have been proven wrong. Willis McGahee's performance was not a fluke, he won't match those numbers again but he is a reliable RB2 now if healthy. Matt Cassell, Dewayne Bowe, and yes, Steve Breaston, will all be good against Denver, but I think Jackie Battle's inability to take control of the starting spot means less carries going forward for him.
Buffalo at Dallas: Like last year, Ryan Fitzpatrick started out underrated, got off to a hot start, and then faded. I don't expect much from the Bills passing game here either but Fred Jackson will be good again. I'm interested to see what happens to DeMarco Murray if Felix Jones returns. As a Murray owner, I think he has to remain a 17-carry guy and in that case you have to play him, but I worry Jones will cut into Murray's carries more than he should Here's hoping Jones is back to being a third-down back and Murray is the feature back the rest of the way. Tony Romo, Jason Witten, and Dez Bryant will all be good against Buffalo and I think Laurent Robinson becomes a 10-point per week receiver as long as Austin is out, especially considering the weak schedule Dallas has in the next few weeks.
New Oreleans at Atlanta: Shootout alert, get all your reliable guys in there. Matt Ryan will get close to last week's 21 points and Julio Jones, Roddy White and Michael Turner will all be good. Drew Brees and Marques Colston and Lance Moore will be good, but that running game remains unpredictable. Pick up Chris Ivory, but wait to see if he continues to get a heavy workload before playing him.
St. Louis at Cleveland: I'd play Steven Jackson and....nobody else.
Pittsburgh at Cincinatti: How did Andy Dalton go eight games without having to play either Baltimore or Pittsburgh? Crazy. But he's got them four times in the next eight weeks, so sell high if you can. AJ Green will still get his catches and Cedric Benson will be fine. Ben Roethlisberger and Mike Wallace will be good and I think Rashard Mendenhall bounces back, but not confident enough yet in Antonio Brown despite all those targets. Take a shot on the Pittsburgh defense, this could be a wake-up call for all Cinci's offensive rookies.
Baltimore at Seattle: Trap game here for Ravens, I think they struggle in a low-scoring game with the Seahawks. Your usual Ravens like Joe Flacco, Ray Rice, and Anquan Boldin will get points, but less than you think. Marshawn Lynch owners who got excited last week will go back to being disappointed with him and Tavaris Jackson and the passing game will struggle too.
New York Giants at San Francisco: Giants are banged up and I think that catches up to them this week. Eli Manning will be average but his best receiver may be Jake Ballard, who I think is due for a big second half. Don't want any part of that running game either. This should be another low-scoring game so I don't love any Niners either because I fear Frank Gore is beginning a second-half injury decline.
Detroit at Chicago: Matthew Stafford got a week off to recover from injury and he and Calvin Johnson should pick up where they left off. I'm buying the Earl Bennett hype, he's worth a pick-up but not a play this week as he could become Cutler's top target. Matt Forte should bounce back from those fumbles and have a solid day.
New England at New York Jets: The concerns about the Patriots offense will grow this week. Brady and Welker will be solid, but not great, as I think the Jets will slow them down. However, if you can buy-low on those guys do it because they will bounce back later this season. Don't try to start any Patriots running backs this week however. I think the Patriots defense has one of its best weeks too and keeps it close with New York, but Dustin Keller could be a sneaky play at tight end after a frustrating season.
Minnesota at Green Bay: I predicted great things for Percy Harvin at the start of the season and then started recommending against him two weeks ago. I am giving him one more shot. His injury-prone body has had a bye week to recover and I think this is the week for him, especially against a Packers defense that gives up a ton of passing yards. You heard it here first: 19 points from Harvin, as the Viks try to get him involved in lots of ways and he should also come up big late as Minnesota tries to come from behind. I'm playing Harvin this week and you will be rewarded too. So come on Percy, give me one big week. Play all your usual Packers in another typically big offensive performance for Green Bay.Written by Steve Mims exclusively for TheFantasyFix.com. Follow Steve on Twitter @nwsportscards
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 Peyton Hillis (credits below) If you don't like your fantasy football team midway through the season, it looks like you are stuck.
Unlike past seasons when players like Miles Austin, Jamaal Charles, and Peyton Hillis were still on the waiver wire weeks into the season before being picked up, there do not appear to be any mid-season free agents of note this season. Each week I expect some breakout day from an unknown running back or receiver to make the No. 1 waiver priority a valuable asset, but it seems that each week ends with guys like Doug Baldwin and Michael Bush as the best available options.
DeMarco Murray and Jackie Battle have been about the best of the pick-ups in recent weeks and we don't know if either will remain fantasy relevant for long.
So if you are contending in your league and looking to fill an important hole, you better find a trade partner because the free-agent market looks dry this season.
The good news is we are down the final few teams with a remaining bye this season and no more than four teams will be off in any week the rest of the way. Except for Matthew Stafford, Calvin Johnson, and Maurice Jones-Drew, this week should be relatively painless as bye weeks go with Detroit joined by Minnesota, Carolina, and Jacksonville with a week off.
Here's what to expect this week:
Miami at Kansas City: Buy into Reggie Bush's 100-yard game at your own risk. We've all been teased before and disappointed soon afterwards. However, if Daniel Thomas is out again, Bush is at least a decent flex option. When Thomas returns, ditch all Dolphins running backs. You can say that about every Miami player on offense except Brandon Marshall, although he is a low-end WR2 at this point. The Chiefs defense is a solid choice against the 'Fins. Jackie Battle appears to have taken control of Kansas City's running game so he is a reliable RB2. Dwayne Bowe was disappointing on Monday night, but he's still the only Chiefs receiver you can count on. Matt Cassel could have one of his fluky big games against Miami.
Atlanta at Indianapolis: This should be the best week of the season for Matt Ryan, especially if Julio Jones returns. The last quarterback to face the Colts indoors threw for five touchdowns and helped his team score 62 points. I think Ryan should be able to get over 20 points this week and Roddy White should be the No. 1 receiver you expected him to be this season. Michael Turner is a great play here as well. Joseph Addai may be back so at least you know who the Colts will give the ball too, but don't expect much. It's getting harder and harder to believe in Reggie Wayne, but if he's got anything left it should come out this week.
Tampa Bay at New Orleans: LaGarrette Blount should be back and Ernest Graham's injury means Blount should be in line for 20-25 touches each game the rest of the season and that should make him productive if he can stay healthy. Josh Freeman should have a decent day against New Orleans' defense but it is hard to know who he will feature at receiver. Give Mike Williams one more shot this week before giving up on him. Drew Brees is in line for another big day and you want Marques Colston as his top target but I think Lance Moore continues to get more involved in the offense as well. If you held on to Pierre Thomas or picked him up on waivers recently, he's a decent flex option this week.
New York Jets at Buffalo: The Jets passing game should have a nice day fresh off a bye against the Bills, so Mark Sanchez will be a top-12 quarterback this week. I like Santonio Holmes, but not Plaxico Burress and I'm not playing any Jets running back either. Brandon Pettigrew, Greg Olson, Visanthe Shiancoe, and Marcedes Lewis are all on a bye, so either Dustin Keller or Scott Chandler are a decent fill-in at tight end in this game. Ryan Fitzpatrick will struggle and Stevie Johnson is on Revis Island, so Fred Jackson is the only must-start for the Bills.
Seattle at Dallas: Tavaris Jackson is clearly Seattle's best option at quarterback and in a two-team league, he should be good here against the Cowboys for 15 points. Sidney Rice gets a big boost with Jackson back in the line-up and I think last week started a strong second-half surge for Rice. Seattle's strength on defense is against the run, but DeMarco Murray will get more carries this week and should get near 100 yards and a score. The Cowboys passing game is struggling and I don't expect anything above average this week from Tony Romo, Dez Bryant, or Miles Austin.
Cleveland at Houston: Attention Peyton Hillis owners – you really want him back this week. Monterio Hardesty is gone and a healthy Hillis has the chance to be the workhorse fantasy stud that he was last year. This season has been a disaster as Hillis has looked like a malcontent with a contract dispute and an injury-prone back, but a few weeks of 100-yard games with a couple scores can rebuild his reputation so he should be motivated if he returns this week. Andre Johnson owners should be getting worried because the Texans bye week is just two weeks away, so the fear is that Johnson may decide to sit out two more games to get three more weeks off. If he doesn't return this week, don't expect him in Week 10, so you are really rooting for him to get back for a nice home match-up against the Browns. Matt Schaub could use a jolt of Johnson as well and Arian Foster will be a stud no matter who lines up at receiver. Houston's defense could return to favor this week, especially if Hillis is out.
San Francisco at Washington: Frank Gore has become a stud once again, so as long as he is healthy he is a threat to go for 100 yards and a touchdown every week. Michael Crabtree is close to establishing himself as the No. 1 receiver in San Francisco so feel free to play him against the Redskins. The Niners defense is a good option as well. Ryan Torain is the only Redskin to even consider for your lineup, but hopefully you have good enough running backs to keep him on the bench.
Cincinnati at Tennessee: Hearing a lot of hype for Andy Dalton and it is warranted for a rookie QB, but is still in my 15-20 range for QBs. AJ Green is a legit WR2 now and welcome back Cedric Benson, who has nothing to fear from Bernard Scott's one-game audition as Benson should be reliable the rest of the season. I tried hard to buy low on Chris Johnson this week, but couldn't get him for DeMarco Murray/Jackie Battle or Murray/Sidney Rice. So some people are keeping the faith and I would too, this could be the week he finally gets back to 100 yards and a couple scores. I'd put Matt Hasselbeck ahead of Dalton this week but don't like any of his receivers.
Denver at Oakland: Remember all those fantasy owners who rushed to pick up Tim Tebow thinking they had a stud who could find many ways to get 20 points per week? You can be one of those owners now because Tebow is getting tossed back on the waiver wire in many leagues. Hard to see a good ending this season for Tebow, but this week will be particularly rough against the Raiders. In fact, I wouldn't want to play any Broncos this week except Knowshon Moreno in deeper leagues. Darren McFadden looks healthy and he should be a stud again plus Michael Bush could also have a good week in deeper leagues if the Raiders look to rest McFadden late in a blowout win. Carson Palmer will be better than his debut, but don't start him yet. However, Darrius Heyward-Bey will get in double digits and the Raiders' defense will too.New York Giants at New England: Eli Manning and Tom Brady will both have big days here and Welker should bounce back. Ahmad Bradshaw will be good if healthy, but ignore Giants running backs if he isn't. Mario Manningham and Victor Cruz both get a nice boost if Hakeem Nicks is out. I'd stay away from Patriots running backs but play both tight ends.St. Louis at Arizona: Stay healthy Beanie Wells, please, because this could be another 120 yard and two score game. Be healthy Kevin Kolb because you too will go off if you play and Larry Fitzgerald owners need you. Stay healthy Steven Jackson and run wild again this week. Get healthy Sam Bradford, this could be the defense you need to face to get your season on track.Green Bay at San Diego: Shootout here, so play your quarterbacks, Vincent Jackson, Antonio Gates, Jermichael Finley, Greg Jennings, Jordy Nelson, and I'd start James Jones in a deeper league. Monitor the San Diego running back situation because if Ryan Mathews sits, Mike Tolbert gets the full workload his owners have been waiting for and that should be good for 15 points. Even if Mathews plays, I'd bench him if I have another decent running back because he will split time with Tolbert.Baltimore at Pittsburgh: The first meeting was brutal for the Steelers and the second will be better, but not enough to make Ben Roethlisberger a top-12 quarterback this week. Mike Wallace and Rashard Mendenhall are worth the risk. Ray Rice and Anquan Boldin should be in your lineup and with a rare kicker recommendation, Billy Cundiff should have a great week.Chicago at Philadelphia: I like the Eagles revival to continue so feel good about playing Michael Vick even though the Bears defense is usually a warning sign. DeSean Jackson is another guy I tried to buy low on and failed, but he tends to be good in prime-time games so look for a big Monday night out of him. Matt Forte will take advantage of Philadelphia's bad run defense, but I wouldn't play anyone in their passing game.Written by Steve Mims exclusively for TheFantasyFix.com. Follow Steve on Twitter @nwsportscards
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(April 27, 2011 - Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images North America)
Tags: The Fantasy Fix, 2011 Fantasy Football, Week 9 Game Previews, Week 9 Game Predicitions, Week 8 Fantasy Football, Steve Mims
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