News: Ravens RB Ray Rice accumulated 88 yards on 19 carries with 67 yards on five catches vs. the Steelers in Week 12. He did see teammate Willis McGahee score on a 2-yard run, his first end-zone visit since the early part of the year.
Analysis: Rice has evolved into a must-start in Fantasy, and that's no different when he plays at Green Bay in Week 13. Start him as a No. 1 running back and expect him to easily top 100 total yards even against the Packers' tough run defense in his next matchup.
News: Steelers TE Heath Miller had just one catch for 2 yards at Baltimore in Week 12. One big reason for the low production: Third-string QB Dennis Dixon was under center and he completed only 12 of 26 passes. Miller was targeted four times. Another reason for the bad game: Miller was asked to help block more than go out for passes. And a third reason: The Ravens defend against opposing tight ends very well.
Analysis: Look for Miller to have a good chance to rebound in Week 13 when the Raiders come to Pittsburgh. Granted, the Raiders have been strong against opposing tight ends too, but they just allowed over 100 yards to Jason Witten at Dallas. Moreover, if Ben Roethlisberger is back under center for the Steelers, Miller might get more opportunities to haul in the ball. Consider the Steelers QB situation before going with Miller in Week 13.
News: Playing in place of Ben Roethlisberger in Week 12 at Baltimore, Steelers QB Dennis Dixon did better than expected in his first NFL start, gaining 145 yards on 12 of 26 passing with a touchdown to Santonio Holmes along with a score on the ground of his own. He also had 27 yards rushing on three carries and didn't have a turnover until overtime when he threw an interception that set up the Ravens' game-winning score.
Analysis: Dixon did well enough that if you started him in place of Roethlisberger you can't complain. Two total touchdowns was a nice surprise, though his accuracy needs some work. We'll keep tabs on Roethlisberger's status for Week 13 since if he's out again with concussion-like symptoms then Dixon will get the nod for the Steelers at home vs. Oakland. Dixon would probably post similar stats to what he did in Week 12 for that matchup.
News: Philadelphia TE Brent Celek caught four passes for 33 yards in the Week 12 win over Washington. His long went for 15 yards. Celek sprained his thumb in the game apparently. The Eagles said X-rays were negative. Celek told a teammate he has torn ligaments in one of his hands after dropping three passes. Wide receiver Jeremy Maclin stopped a passing Celek at his locker and asked, "you good?" Celek told him, "No, I tore a few ligaments in my hand." Celek extended his left hand toward Maclin to take a look. Coach Andy Reid did not mention Celek's injury in his postgame press conference.
Analysis: Celek has not scored a touchdown in two straight weeks and has eight catches for 68 yards combined in those two. Before that, however, Celek had a touchdown in three straight. With DeSean Jackson getting injured on Sunday and possibly needing to miss the Week 13 game at Atlanta, that could make Celek a solid No. 1 Fantasy option for that game if he's healthy. This is definitely a situation to monitor.
News: Philadelphia WR DeSean Jackson caught two passes for 41 yards in Week 12 against Washington. Jackson scored on a 35-yard TD pass from Donovan McNabb in the 1st quarter. He left the game late in the second half with a head and neck injury that coach Andy Reid later described as a concussion. He was originally thought to be just a little banged up but he could not return to the game.
Analysis: Jackson will appear on the practice injury report this coming week in preparation of Week 13 at Atlanta. Stay tuned to his progress. Jackson has scored touchdowns in two straight games and could have had his third straight game of at least 90 yards receiving had he stayed healthy. He would be a solid Fantasy option in all leagues for Week 13 if healthy.
News: Falcons RB Michael Turner saw the majority of the carries in the Week 12 game against Tampa Bay before getting injured again. Turner once again came up gimpy on his ankle, the same one he just returned from, after rushing 12 times for 33 yards. He left the game in the 3rd quarter and was almost immediately ruled out for the rest of the game.
Analysis: Turner got the majority of the carries and looked healthy enough in doing so as Jerious Norwood and Jason Snelling backed him up...until he got hurt again, that is. With three 100-yard games in his last four contests and at least one touchdown in seven games this season with 10 total, we have to call Turner a low-end No. 1/top-end No. 2 Fantasy option for Week 13 against the Eagles’ decent rush defense, if he's healthy. If not, the Falcons will have to decide on Norwood and Snelling once again.
Titans D limits Cardinals offense
Updated 11/30/2009
Titans, DST TEN
News: The Titans limited the visiting Cardinals to only 17 points on 292 yards in Week 13. They recorded only one sack, though, and failed to record a turnover for the second straight game.
Analysis: The Titans DST isn't a dominant unit in Fantasy and no doubt benefited from the absence of Cardinals QB Kurt Warner on Sunday. The Titans visit the undefeated Colts in Week 13, so you shouldn't expect big numbers from the Titans DST. Consider it a No. 2 Fantasy unit for that matchup, if not a No. 3.
News: Titans DL Kyle Vanden Bosch recorded his second sack in as many games and third of the season Week 12 against the Cardinals. He finished with three tackles, including two solo.
Analysis: Vanden Bosch isn't the sack artist he used to be and, like most defensive linemen, doesn't get many tackles. He's just a low-end option in Fantasy IDP leagues.
Cardinals DST gives up 532 yards
Updated 11/30/2009
Cardinals, DST ARI
News: At Tennessee in Week 12, the Cardinals somehow managed to give up only 20 points even though they allowed 532 yards. They recorded four sacks and recovered one fumble.
Analysis: The Cardinals DST can be good in the right matchups, but it has a tough one Week 13 against the Vikings. It'll be lucky to give up just 20 points then. Consider looking into other options.
News: Falcons QB Matt Ryan left Week 12 against Tampa Bay with a toe injury. Ryan was 2 of 3 passing for 15 yards before getting hurt in the first quarter. He was ruled out at halftime and Chris Redman came in for him and completed the game. The toe was taped up, extra padding was added to his shoe and Ryan did some light jogging on the sideline to test it out. Nothing worked. Ryan changed into street clothes at halftime and watched the rest of the game wearing a special shoe.
Analysis: Ryan played well in Week 11 against the Giants with 268 passing yards, two touchdowns and no interceptions but he'd been really shaky before that with 11 interceptions over a six-game span. The Falcons play at home against the Eagles in Week 13 and Philly has a tough pass defense. We would consider Ryan just a No. 2 Fantasy QB option for Week 13 if he is able to return to play. Stay tuned throughout the practice week to follow his progress.
News: Cardinals DL Darnell Dockett, who entered the game with three sacks in his last three, recorded three more Week 12 at Tennessee, finishing with six total tackles. He now has seven sacks for the season.
Analysis: Dockett is one of the better defensive tackles in the NFL and posts some nice numbers from that position. With this surplus of sacks recently, he's worth starting as a No. 2 DL in Fantasy IDP leagues.
News: Titans K Rob Bironas scored eight points Week 12 against the Cardinals, giving him at least eight in five straight games. He hit two field goals, including a 52-yarder, and two extra points.
Analysis: Bironas is one of the most reliable kickers in Fantasy. Keep him active for Week 13 at Indianapolis.
News: Titans TE Alge Crumpler had one catch for 8 yards Week 13 at Indianapolis.
Analysis: Crumpler might get a catch or two per game, but he'll never put together a big enough game to make him worth your trouble in Fantasy. Leave him on waivers for Week 13 at Indianapolis.
News: Ravens WR Mark Clayton caught seven passes for 129 yards vs. the Steelers in Week 12. That included a 54-yard haul and two 20-yard catches. He was targeted 10 times in the game.
Analysis: Perhaps this is an awakening for Clayton, who is typically so inconsistent that Fantasy owners don't bother to start him. But if the Ravens want to re-capture their passing game attack, Clayton will have to be involved. His 10 targets hint that he'll be involved, so consider him as a low-end No. 3 Fantasy WR for Week 13 when the Ravens test the Packers secondary.
News: Titans TE Jared Cook caught two passes for 29 yards against the Cardinals in Week 12. He has nine catches all season.
Analysis: Cook doesn't play a significant enough role in the passing game to make an impact in Fantasy. Leave him on waivers for Week 13 at Indianapolis.
News: Titans WR Lavelle Hawkins made his first statistical impact of the season Week 12 against the Cardinals. He had four catches for 44 yards.
Analysis: Hawkins is too low on the depth chart to make an impact in Fantasy, especially since the Titans don't normally do as much passing as they did Sunday. Leave him on waivers for Week 13 at Indianapolis.
News: Ravens RB Willis McGahee saw some early carries vs. the Steelers in Week 12 and contributed 18 rush yards on five carries with a touchdown run from 2 yards out. He also had a 1-yard catch.
Analysis: McGahee now has six rushing touchdowns on the season, but this score was his first since Week 4. He'll likely continue in his role as a minimal-carry back for Baltimore behind starter Ray Rice, so consider him nothing more than an insurance policy for those owners who have Rice in their active lineups each week. The Ravens play at the Packers in Week 13.
News: Titans WR Nate Washington set a season high with 68 yards receiving Week 12 against the Cardinals. He had three catches.
Analysis: Only twice this season has Washington topped 40 yards receiving. He's a decent target in the red zone, but he's just a low-end Fantasy option for Week 13 at Indianapolis.
News: Titans TE Bo Scaife had five catches for a season-high 68 yards Week 12 against the Cardinals. He still has yet to record a touchdown this season, though.
Analysis: The Titans normally don't have much of a passing game, so don't look at this game as a breakout performance for Scaife. He's a decent safety valve for QB Vince Young, but he's a No. 2 Fantasy option at best for Week 13 at Indianapolis.
News: Cardinals RB LaRod Stephens-Howling returned a kick 99 yards for a touchdown Week 12 at Tennessee. He didn't factor on offense, however.
Analysis: Stephens-Howling rarely gets opportunities on offense, so despite what he does on special teams, he doesn't deserve a roster spot in Fantasy. Leave him on waivers for Week 13 against the Vikings.
News: Cardinals K Neil Rackers, who scored only three points last week, scored only five Week 12 at Tennessee. He hit one field goal, a 41-yarder, and two extra points.
Analysis: The Cardinals offense hasn't provided Rackers with many opportunities lately, but at least you can count on it to score points consistently. Rackers might end up with more extra points than field goals, but he's still a viable Fantasy option for Week 13 against the Vikings.
News: Steelers WR Mike Wallace was targeted four times in Week 12 at Baltimore but didn't make a single catch.
Analysis: Wallace's production was expected to decline with third-string QB Dennis Dixon starting in place of Ben Roethlisberger. Now, if Big Ben in back under center in Week 13 when the Raiders roll into Pittsburgh, then Wallace will warrant some consideration. The Oakland secondary is good but they were lit up by the Cowboys in Week 12 including a big game by big-play receiver Miles Austin. Wallace should be considered startable in deeper leagues depending on who his quarterback will be, so stay in touch with us.
News: Cardinals TE Ben Patrick caught one pass for 28 yards at Tennessee in Week 12. He has no more than two catches in any game this season.
Analysis: The Cardinals don't often use their tight ends in the passing game, and Patrick isn't the clear No. 1 anyway. Leave him on waivers for Week 13 against the Vikings.
News: Cardinals WR Early Doucet caught one pass for 28 yards Week 12 at Tennessee. He has exactly one catch in each of his last three games.
Analysis: Doucet is too low on the depth chart to make an impact in Fantasy. Leave him on waivers for Week 13 against the Vikings.
Vikings DST dominates the Bears
Updated 11/30/2009
Vikings, DST MIN
News: The Vikings had a dominant defensive performance against the Bears in Week 12, allowing 10 points on only 169 yards. They recorded four sacks and one interception and recovered one fumble.
Analysis: The Vikings DST is one of the most consistent units in Fantasy -- the kind you start regardless of matchups. It has a tough matchup Week 13 at Arizona, but it's still worth using as a low-end No. 1 DST.
News: Vikings DL Jared Allen recorded two more sacks Week 12 against the Bears, giving him 12 1/2 on the season. He also had his first interception.
Analysis: Allen is one of the leading sack artists in the game and is on pace to set a career high. You shouldn't expect any more interceptions from him, but he's a must-start in Fantasy IDP leagues.
News: Against the Bears in Week 12, Vikings DB Cedric Griffin recorded his third interception of the season and first since Week 3. He also had four solo tackles.
Analysis: Griffin is a decent tackler for a defensive back, and he set a career high with his third interception. He's worth using as a No. 2 DB in Fantasy IDP leagues.
Niners defense allows only three points
Updated 11/30/2009
49ers, DST SF
News: The 49ers DST had a terrific game on Sunday in a 20-3 Week 12 win over the Jaguars. The defense caused two fumbles in the game and was able to sack QB David Garrard five times. Garrard had a good day through the air however, throwing for 307 yards. On the ground, the Jaguars were limited to 96 yards on 19 attempts.
Analysis: The Niners defense came up big on Sunday, especially in the red zone as the Jags managed to score only three points. It was a far better showing than in Week 11 when the secondary was torched by QB Aaron Rodgers. The 49ers take on Seattle Week 13 on the road. In Week 2, the Niners held the Seahawks to just 10 points. Think of the 49ers DST as an interesting low-end sleeper for that game.
News: The San Francisco defense had a solid performance on Sunday in a Week 12 win over the Jaguars, beating Jacksonville 20-3. Standout linebacker Patrick Willis led the way, making 11 tackles and recording half a sack. Dashon Goldson was the second-leading tackler with nine tackles. Ray McDonald and Justin Smith both recovered fumbles in the game. Smith also had 1 1/2 sacks and a forced fumble. Takeo Spikes had six tackles and a sack. Parys Haralson finished the game with four tackles and 1 ½ sacks. Manny Lawson had a forced fumble and two tackles in the game.
Analysis: Willis is an elite defensive talent and one of the best options in all IDP formats. Goldson and Smith are also decent plays in IDP leagues. The rest of these players have little to no Fantasy value. The Niners are at Seattle Week 13.
News: San Francisco PK Joe Nedney kicked two field goals on Sunday in a Week 12 win over the Jaguars. The field goals were good from 46 and 27 yards out. He also made both of the extra points he attempted.
Analysis: Nedney has only once attempted more than two field goals in a game and that came back in Week 2 against Seattle when he scored 11 points, his season high. The Niners play at Seattle in Week 13, so Nedney could be a decent sleeper kicker for that game as the San Francisco offense has been better of late.
News: Niners WR Josh Morgan had a decent game on Sunday in a Week 12 win over the Jaguars. He caught six passes in the game, gaining a total of 43 yards. His longest reception in the game went for 11 yards.
Analysis: Morgan got the start with Isaac Bruce, doing a bit better in Week 12 than he did in Week 11 when Bruce came off the bench. He has only one touchdown this season and is yet to gain 100 yards. He is at best a low-end flex option in the deepest of formats for Week 13 against Seattle. In Week 2 against the Seahawks, Morgan failed to catch a pass.
Bears defense shredded by Vikings
Updated 11/30/2009
Bears, DST CHI
News: The Bears couldn't mount any sort of resistance against the hosting Vikings in Week 12, allowing 36 points on 537 yards. They recorded two sacks and recovered two fumbles.
Analysis: The Bears DST hasn't looked stellar recently, but it has a chance to rebound in a big way Week 13 against the Rams. Normally, you'd treat it as a No. 2 Fantasy unit, but it's a No. 1 for that matchup.
News: Niners WR Michael Crabtree was a decent contributor on Sunday in a Week 12 win over the Jaguars. He caught four passes in the game for a total of 54 yards. His longest reception in the game went for 27 yards.
Analysis: Crabtree has become one of QB Alex Smith’s favorite targets since making his season debut in Week 7. He has only one score and is yet to break 100 yards receiving, but he is an immense talent that should become a solid contributor in Fantasy. For now, Crabtree is a low-end No. 2 Fantasy option at Seattle in Week 13.
News: Niners TE Vernon Davis made his way back into the end zone on Sunday in a Week 12 win over the Jaguars. Davis caught six passes in the game, gaining a total of 69 yards. His longest reception in the game went for 30 yards. It was his ninth touchdown reception of the season.
Analysis: Davis continues to perform like one of the top tight ends in the league and Week 12 was no exception. He has a TD reception in six of his 12 games this season and eight overall, making him a must-start Fantasy option. The Niners are at Seattle Week 13. Against the Seahawks in Week 2, Davis had just two receptions for 32 yards.
News: Niners TE Delanie Walker had four receptions on Sunday in a Week 12 win over the Jaguars. He gained a total of 52 yards in the game. He was also given a carry, gaining 11 yards.
Analysis: Walker nearly doubled his receptions total in Week 12, having failed to catch a pass in three of the previous four weeks. This was his first multi-reception as well. He still plays second fiddle to Vernon Davis in San Francisco and remains a low-end Fantasy option.
News: Niners RB Frank Gore salvaged a poor performance against Jacksonville on Sunday with a 4-yard receiving touchdown from Alex Smith in a 20-3 win. Gore gained only 33 yards on the ground on 16 runs. He caught seven passes as well but gained only 14 yards.
Analysis: San Francisco threw 41 passes Week 12 as they were trying to exploit a weakness in the Jaguars secondary. Gore had only seven carries in Week 11 at Green Bay, so this trend toward passing could be a bit troublesome. However, Gore remains a must-start for Week 13 at Seattle. In Week 2 against the Seahawks, Gore had 16 carries for 207 yards and two touchdowns, gaining 39 yards through the air as well.
Smith solid against Jags Week 12
Updated 11/30/2009
49ers, TQB SF
News: San Francisco QB Alex Smith had a solid performance on Sunday in a Week 12 win over the Jaguars. He completed 27 of his 41 passes in the game, throwing for 232 yards and two touchdown passes. Vernon Davis and Frank Gore were the recipients of those TD passes. It was the second-most throws Smith has thrown in a game. Smith said the pass-happy game plan had more to do with taking advantage of Jacksonville's weaknesses than any lobbying on his part. "Their starting corner, [CB Rashean] Mathis, was out. We knew they were playing some young guys back there."
Analysis: Smith said Sunday’s performance was the best he had felt in his entire pro career, which is a good sign for Fantasy owners. Smith might finally be living up to being a No. 1 overall pick and is worth picking up in deeper formats. The Niners take on a poor Seattle pass defense in Week 13 on the road. Think of Smith as a nice sleeper for that start.
Analysis: Coffee is worth owning as a handcuff for Frank Gore but the rest of these players have little to no Fantasy value. The Niners are at Seattle Week 13.
News: Bears DB Al Afalava picked up his second sack of the season Week 12 at Minnesota. It was his first since Week 1. He also had eight tackles, including six solo.
Analysis: Afalava, a rookie, has yet to record an interception and isn't an elite tackler for a defensive back. He's not worth owning in Fantasy IDP leagues.
News: Bears LB Hunter Hillenmeyer led the team with nine tackles, including seven solo, Week 12 at Minnesota. He also forced two fumbles.
Analysis: Hillenmeyer isn't a reliable source of sacks or interceptions and doesn't get any more tackles than the average linebacker. You can leave him on waivers in most Fantasy IDP leagues.
News: Notable Ravens defenders from Week 12 include: LB Ray Lewis (nine total tackles), DB Dawan Landry, DL Dwan Edwards and DL Kelly Gregg (eight total tackles each) and LB Paul Kruger (two total tackles, interception).
Analysis: Of these defenders, only Landry and Lewis warrant use in Fantasy play. The Ravens play at the Packers in Week 13.
Just an INT for the Ravens DST
Updated 11/30/2009
Ravens, DST BAL
News: The Ravens might have won in Week 12 vs. the Steelers but their DST totaled a lone interception of Dennis Dixon in overtime. They were expected to fare better against Dixon, who did just enough to give the Steelers a semblance of a passing game. The Ravens allowed only 145 passing yards but yielded 153 rush yards in the win.
Analysis: The Ravens DST will have their hands full in Week 13 when they play at Green Bay. If pass rusher Terrell Suggs isn't back yet, the defense will struggle to get to Aaron Rodgers and clamp down on his receivers. Consider other options if you can over the Ravens in Week 13.
News:Billy Cundiff seems like the Ravens' answer at kicker for the rest of the season. He hit two of three field goals, missing on a 56-yard attempt to win the game in regulation but nailing a 29-yard attempt in overtime for the win. He also hit two extra points.
Analysis: Cundiff is beginning to warrant attention as at least a low-end starting Fantasy kicker as the Baltimore offense gives him plenty of tries to score. Consider him off waivers if you're struggling at the position headed into Week 13 when he and the Ravens play at Green Bay.
News: Bears K Robbie Gould, who equaled a season high with 12 points Week 12 at Minnesota, had only four against the Rams in Week 13. He hit a 38-yard field goal and also had an extra point.
Analysis: Gould has had a maddening season Fantasy-wise, alternating huge performances with mediocre ones. With the Bears offense struggling right now, you have to expect his inconsistencies to continue, but he has an opportunity for more points than usual with a good matchup Week 13 against the Rams.
News: Ravens TE Todd Heap had a 6-yard catch vs. the Steelers in Week 12.
Analysis: Heap was a useful Fantasy option earlier in the year but he's trailed off over the last several weeks. He's no better than a longshot for decent stats at Green Bay in Week 13.
News:Derrick Mason caught seven passes for 62 yards including a touchdown on a short corner lob where he outplayed Steelers CB Ike Taylor in Week 12. Mason's score was his first as a Raven against the Steelers. He was targeted a dozen times in the game.
Analysis: Mason is a solid route runner who Joe Flacco leans on in the Ravens offense. Expect it to stay that way even though the Ravens will play at the Packers in Week 13, and they boast a pretty good secondary. Mason will see his fair share of cornerback Charles Woodson in the game, which could impact his stats negatively. Figure Mason to be a No. 3 Fantasy WR at best in Week 13.
News: Bears WR Earl Bennett caught three passes for season-low 14 yards Week 12 at Minnesota. He has less than 30 yards receiving in three of his last five games.
Analysis: Bennett isn't a complete non-factor in the Bears' passing game, but he's too inconsistent for Fantasy purposes, especially since he hasn't scored a touchdown all season.
News: Ravens RB/FB Le'Ron McClain had four carries for 28 yards and a 9-yard catch vs. the Steelers in Week 12. It's the seventh time this season he's been good for at least 25 total yards of offense. He did leave the game with an abdominal injury and did not return.
Analysis: McClain is still way behind where he was statistically for the Ravens in 2008 and thus cannot be considered a reliable source of Fantasy points. The Ravens play at the Packers in Week 13 -- leave him off rosters then.
News: Bears TE Greg Olsen led the team with seven receptions Week 12 at Minnesota, giving him six or more in three straight games. He went for only 45 yards, though.
Analysis: Olsen has become a safety valve for QB Jay Cutler in recent weeks, but he hasn't gotten a chance to make many big plays. Still, few tight ends play as big of a role on offense as he does, making him too valuable to sit in Fantasy, especially with a good matchup coming up Week 13 against the Rams.
News: Ravens QB Joe Flacco did turn the ball over once on a fumble but was otherwise good, not great, against the Steelers in Week 12. That's a positive after owning five interceptions and no scores in his last two against his division rival. Flacco threw for 289 yards with a touchdown to Derrick Mason on 23 of 35 passing, helping lead the Ravens to an overtime win.
Analysis: Flacco's next opponent is the Packers at Green Bay, which isn't such a hot matchup for him either as the Packers boast one of the league's best cornerbacks in Charles Woodson. Figure Flacco to be about as strong as he was here in Week 13, so consider other options before finalizing your lineup.
News: Vikings K Ryan Longwell had 12 points -- his second-highest total of the season -- Week 12 against the Bears. He hit three field goals, including a long of 52 yards, and three extra points.
Analysis: The Vikings are one of the best teams in the NFL and have a consistently high-scoring offense that allows Longwell plenty of opportunities for points. He remains a must-start in Fantasy for Week 13 at Arizona.
News: Notable Steelers defenders from Week 12 at Baltimore include: LB Lawrence Timmons (seven total tackles, two sacks, forced fumble), LB James Farrior (six total tackles, sack, forced fumble), DE Travis Kirschke (four solo tackles, sack), LB LaMarr Woodley (seven solo tackles, sack) and DB William Gay (eight solo tackles, forced fumble).
Analysis: Of these defenders, Timmons, Farrior and Woodley warrant Fantasy consideration. They should do quite well cleaning up vs. Oakland in Week 13.
Steelers score five sacks
Updated 11/30/2009
Steelers, DST PIT
News: The Steelers DST totaled five sacks and three forced fumbles at Baltimore in Week 12. They held the Ravens' passing offense to 289 yards with one score through the air but yielded 132 yards and a score on the ground. And one more positive: The Steelers did not allow a special-teams touchdown like they did in four of their last five games.
Analysis: The bad news is that the Steelers' defense has shown some holes in recent weeks. The good news is that they host the Raiders in Week 13. Definitely keep them active for what should be a solid showing against a terrible Oakland offense in their next matchup.
Analysis: None of these players ever does enough statistically to matter in Fantasy. Leave them all on waivers.
Jaguars don’t create turnover, allow 20 points
Updated 11/30/2009
Jaguars, DST JAC
News: The Jaguars defense failed to create any big plays on Sunday in a Week 12 loss at San Francisco, losing by a score of 20-3. The Jaguars defense allowed Niners QB Alex Smith to throw for 232 yards on 27 for 41 passing. However, the defense was solid against the run, allowing only 52 yards on 20 rushing attempts.
Analysis: The Jaguars defense wasn’t terrible against San Francisco, but they didn’t exactly make any big plays as they failed to force a fumble, intercept a pass or sack QB Alex Smith. Last week against Buffalo, the defense forced three turnovers. The Jaguars defense faces a potent offense in Week 13 against Houston. In Week 3 at Houston, the defense gave up 24 points. The Jaguars DST is not a recommended Fantasy option for Week 13.
News: Jaguars PK Josh Scobee missed two field goals, including a 21-yarder, on Sunday in a Week 12 loss to the Niners. He did however hit a 32-yard field goal, the team’s only points in a 20-3 loss.
Analysis: Scobee has only reached double digits in points once this season, back in Week 4 against Tennessee. In fact, he has scored seven points or less in 11 of his 12 games so far and has missed eight total kicks. He is not a recommended option in any format for Fantasy Week 13 against Houston. In Week 3 at Houston, Scobee had seven points with one field goal and four extra points.
News:Jeff Reed hit a 44-yard field goal and two extra points at Baltimore in Week 12.
Analysis: Reed isn't considered a reliable Fantasy kicker, especially when the Steelers' offense went with Dennis Dixon at quarterback. Consider him only in deeper formats in Week 13 when the Raiders roll into Pittsburgh.
News: Jaguars TE Marcedes Lewis had a fair performance on Sunday in a Week 12 loss to the Niners on the road. Lewis caught three passes in the game and gained a total of 40 yards. His longest reception in the game went for 22 yards.
Analysis: Lewis is one of the Jags’ better receiving threats but that doesn’t say too much as he has less than 400 receiving yards on the season and just two touchdowns. He’s been slightly better the past three weeks but remains just an injury-replacement option for Week 13 against Houston. In Week 3 at Houston, Lewis had one reception for 18 yards.
News: Jaguars WR Mike Sims-Walker had a below average performance on Sunday in a Week 12 loss at San Francisco. Sims-Walker caught four passes in the game for a total of 46 yards. His longest reception in the game went for 18 yards.
Analysis: Sims-Walker had scored a touchdown in three games in a row coming into Week 12 but failed to make it four straight games as the Jags scored only three points in total. He blew a good opportunity against a poor pass defense in San Francisco. He’ll get another chance Week 13 against a Houston that he had 81 receiving yards against Week 3.
News: With a 16-yard reception late in the second quarter of Sunday’s Week 12 loss to San Francisco, Jaguars WR Torry Holt moved past Bills great Andre Reed and into 10th on the NFL's all-time receiving yardage list with 13,210. Holt finished the game with 46 receiving yards in total, making four receptions.
Analysis: Holt is no longer the elite receiver he once was, but he still has enough in the tank to put up average numbers week in and week out. The Jaguars take on the Texans in Week 13. Back in Week 3, Holt had three receptions for 57 yards against the Texans on the road.
News: Jaguars WR Mike Thomas was the team’s leading receiver on Sunday in a Week 12 loss to the 49ers. Thomas got four receptions in the game, gaining a total of 62 yards. His longest catch in the game went for 25 yards.
Analysis: Thomas still has not scored this season but this was his best yardage total so far. He is not one of the more-featured receivers in the Jaguars passing attack and is still just a low-end Fantasy option for Week 13 against the Texans. In Week 3 at Houston, Thomas had just one catch for 10 yards.
News: Jaguars RB Rashad Jennings got two carries for 11 yards and two receptions for 25 yards on Sunday in a Week 12 loss to the Niners.
Analysis: Maurice Jones-Drew doesn’t take too many plays off, so his backup Jennings therefore gets few touches. Jennings is worth owning as a Jones-Drew handcuff but should not be active for Week 13 against Houston. Jennings had 1 rushing yard and 8 receiving yards Week 3 at Houston.
News: Jaguars RB Maurice Jones-Drew had a below average performance by his standards on Sunday in a Week 12 loss to the 49ers. He carried the ball 15 times in the game, gaining a total of 75 yards. His longest run went for 12 yards. He also caught five passes, gaining a total of 35 yards. His longest reception was good for 17 yards.
Analysis: Jones-Drew had scored in five straight games before coming up empty on Sunday at San Francisco. Fantasy owners have come to expect huge numbers from MJD on a weekly basis, so Sunday’s total seem pedestrian. However, Jones-Drew should bounce back in a big way Week 13 against Houston. In the team’s first meeting at Houston in Week 3, Jones-Drew gained 119 yards on the ground and scored three touchdowns. He remains a must-start in all formats for that game.
Garrard goes over 300, doesn’t score
Updated 11/30/2009
Jaguars, TQB JAC
News: Jacksonville QB David Garrard had a solid day through the air but struggled in the red zone as the Jags lost to the 49ers 20-3. Garrard completed 25 of his 36 passes in the game for a total of 307 yards. Garrard did not throw a TD pass or an interception in the game but did lose two fumbles deep into San Francisco territory. He also carried the ball twice in the game for 10 yards. Garrard’s passer rating on the day was 95.5.
Analysis: Garrard had the potential to put up huge numbers against San Francisco in Week 12 but his inability to get the job done in the red zone left Fantasy owners with just average numbers for the week. Garrard and the Jaguars take on Houston for the second time this season in Week 13. In Week 3 at Houston, Garrard completed 18 of his 30 passes for 214 yards. He did not throw a TD pass or interception in that game but did run for a touchdown. Think of him as a No. 2 Fantasy QB for Week 13.
News:Hines Ward had just three catches for 47 yards at Baltimore in Week 12. One big reason for the low production: Third-string QB Dennis Dixon was under center and he completed only 12 of 26 passes. Ward was targeted six times.
Analysis: Ward has a fairly appealing matchup in Week 13 vs. the Raiders, but it would be really good if Roethlisberger was back under center. The Raiders secondary has been pretty tough this season and would likely do well against Dixon, but not Roethlisberger. Consider the Steelers' quarterback situation before starting Ward in Week 13.
News: Vikings QB Tarvaris Jackson had three carries for minus-4 yards Week 12 against the Cardinals, kneeling out the clock late in the fourth quarter.
Analysis: Jackson won't make any sort of contribution in Fantasy unless something happens to starter Brett Favre. Leave him on waivers.
News:Santonio Holmes' streak of consecutive games with a touchdown against the Ravens seemed to be in jeopardy when the Steelers announced Dennis Dixon as their starter. But Holmes had other plans -- he caught six passes for 74 yards including a 33-yard touchdown haul from Dixon at Baltimore in Week 12. Holmes has now scored in six straight games against the Ravens, totaling seven touchdowns.
Analysis: Holmes' next matchup against a pesky Oakland secondary doesn't appear to be as predictable. The Raiders have been mostly strong against opposing passing games, and it's unclear who Holmes' quarterback will be in Week 13. If it's Ben Roethlisberger, then Holmes has a chance to match his Week 12 stats. He'll have a harder time accomplishing that if Dixon is back under center.
News: Vikings RB Chester Taylor scored a touchdown for only the second time this season Week 12 against the Bears, capitalizing on a 10-yard pass in the second quarter. He finished with six catches for 51 yards and four carries for 33.
Analysis: Taylor is the clear backup to Adrian Peterson at this stage of his career, but he's still good for a few catches out of the backfield every week. He's a must-have handcuff option for Peterson owners, but you can keep him reserved for Week 13 at Arizona.
News: Steelers backup RB Mewelde Moore had 2 yards on four carries at Baltimore in Week 12.
Analysis: Moore is nothing more than a third-down back who only saw extended carries this week because the Steelers opted to run more. He's unlikely to produce enough stats to warrant Fantasy use going forward.
News: Steelers backup RB Willie Parker had 14 yards on five carries at Baltimore in Week 12.
Analysis: Parker has been relegated to a reserve role and isn't worth owning in Fantasy play. Unless you want an insurance policy for Rashard Mendenhall, keep him off rosters going forward, including vs. the Raiders in Week 13.
News: Steelers backup RB/FB Carey Davis had 15 yards on two carries at Baltimore in Week 12.
Analysis: Davis typically doesn't put up enough stats to warrant Fantasy use. Keep him off of rosters going forward; the Steelers host the Raiders in Week 13.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe caught five passes for 51 yards and a touchdown -- a 6-yarder in the second quarter -- Week 12 against the Bears. He has now scored three touchdowns in his last four games and eight this season.
Analysis: Shiancoe doesn't get as much yardage as some tight ends, but he's one of QB Brett Favre's favorite targets in the red zone, making him a consistent scorer in Fantasy. Keep him active as a No. 1 option Week 13 at Arizona.
News: Steelers RB Rashard Mendenhall did very well in Week 12 at Baltimore playing with a banged-up offensive line and with an inexperienced quarterback, gaining 95 yards on 24 carries with 22 yards on two catches.
Analysis: These results are atypical of a Steelers rusher against the Ravens, but he did very well with a heavy workload to offset Dixon's first-ever NFL start. If you think this is good, just wait until what you'll get from him in Week 13 when the Raiders' lowly run defense comes to Pittsburgh. Mendenhall deserves consideration as a No. 1 Fantasy RB in his next matchup.
News: Vikings WR Bernard Berrian caught six passes for 74 yards against the Bears in Week 12. He hadn't recorded as many as 50 yards receiving since Week 4.
Analysis: Berrian has scored four touchdowns this season, so he's not completely useless in Fantasy, but he normally doesn't play this big of a role on offense, taking a back seat to both Sidney Rice and Percy Harvin. Think of him as no more than a No. 3 Fantasy WR at Arizona in Week 13.
News: For the second straight game, Vikings WR Sidney Rice had six catches for 89 yards against the Bears in Week 12. He couldn't repeat the two touchdowns, though, going without one for the sixth time in seven games.
Analysis: Rice hasn't been able to get in the end zone with much consistency, but you can't complain with all the yardage he's giving you. He's averaging 121.8 receiving yards over his last six games. Keep him active as a No. 1 Fantasy WR at Arizona in Week 13.
News: Vikings rookie WR Percy Harvin had his best game as a professional Week 12 against the Bears, catching six passes for a career-high 101 yards and a touchdown. He also had two carries for 45 yards.
Analysis: Harvin has begun to play a more traditional receiving role of late, averaging 79.3 yards receiving with three touchdowns over his last four games. He's not ready to unseat Sidney Rice as the team's leading receiver, but he's putting up consistent enough numbers to serve as a low-end No. 2 Fantasy WR at Arizona in Week 13.
News: Bears WR Devin Hester had only one catch for 20 yards Week 12 at Minnesota, giving him less than 50 yards in each of his last three. He had more than 80 yards in each of his previous four.
Analysis: Hester had become a consistent part of the Bears offense, but he has disappeared with QB Jay Cutler struggling in recent weeks. Cutler and the Bears stand a good chance of getting back on track Week 13 against the Rams, though, so Hester is a good choice to start as a No. 3 Fantasy WR.
News: Bears WR Johnny Knox caught only one pass Week 12 at Minnesota, but it was a 24-yarder that went for a touchdown. He also lost fumble. He hadn't scored a touchdown since Week 6 at Atlanta.
Analysis: Knox is still a big-play threat, but the rookie has played a lesser role on offense in recent weeks. He's back to being just a low-end option in Fantasy and probably isn't worth starting even with an easy matchup Week 13 against the Rams.
News: San Diego LB Shawne Merriman had his nagging foot injury flare up on him Sunday in a Week 12 win over the Chiefs. He left the game in the second quarter and did not return.
Analysis: Merriman has been dealing with this foot injury for a few weeks now but it has not kept him out of action. Monitor his status this week leading up to the Chargers' Week 13 game against the Browns. when healthy, Merriman is a No. 2 or 3 Fantasy option in IDP formats.
Chargers DST scores, holds down Chiefs
Updated 11/29/2009
Chargers, DST SD
News: The Chargers defense put together a solid performance on Sunday, beating the Chiefs 43-14. Paul Oliver returned a fumble 40 yards the other way in the second quarter for a score. Quentin Jammer intercepted a pass and the Chargers recovered a total of three fumbles on defense. The Chiefs were limited to 181 yards through the air on 20 for 33 passing and a touchdown. On the ground, the Chiefs were limited to 114 yards on 23 carries.
Analysis: The Chargers defense has been one of the better units of late, limiting the Broncos to only three points Week 11. That trend should continue in Week 13 as the Chargers have a tasty matchup with the lowly Browns on the road. The Chargers DST remains a must-start Fantasy option for that contest.
News: Chargers DB Quentin Jammer intercepted a Matt Cassel pass on Sunday in a Week 12 win over the Chiefs. He also forced a fumble in the game and had five tackles.
Analysis: Jammer is an elite DB in the NFL, which is why he is not thrown at too often. He is a decent low-end Fantasy option in IDP formats. The Chargers are at Cleveland Week 13.
News:Brandon Siler, Larry English and Paul Oliver all recovered fumbles on Sunday in a Week 12 Chargers win over the Chiefs. Siler also led the team in tackles with nine. Oliver returned his fumble recovery 40 yards for a touchdown in the second quarter.
Analysis: English has some marginal Fantasy value in IDP formats but Paul and Siler have zero value. The Chargers are at Cleveland Week 13.
News: Chargers PK Nate Kaeding accounted for 11 points on Sunday in a Week 12 win over the Chiefs. He hit both of the field goals he attempted, including a 55-yarder in the third quarter. Kaeding also made all five of the extra points he attempted.
Analysis: Kaeding has 25 total points the past two weeks as the Chargers have been able to get him plenty of field goal and extra point opportunities. With the Chargers offense clicking, Kaeding remains a must-start Fantasy option for Week 13 at Cleveland. Expect Kaeding to again reach double digits.
News: Chargers WR Malcom Floyd had his best performance of the season on Sunday in a Week 12 win over the Chiefs. Floyd had three receptions in the game for a total of 85 yards. His longest catch in the game went for 53 yards.
Analysis: Floyd has moved up to No. 2 on the Chargers’ depth chart with Chris Chambers no longer with the team, but this was the first time he put up the kind of numbers Fantasy owners have been hoping for. However, this one decent performance does not mean Floyd is now a viable Fantasy option. Only get him active in the deepest of leagues for Fantasy Week 13 at Cleveland even though the Browns’ pass defense is not very good.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates had a solid performance on Sunday in a Week 12 win over the Chiefs. He had two touchdowns and 118 yards on seven receptions in the 43-14 victory. His first TD pass in the first quarter was from 19 yards out and the second TD grab came from 15 yards out in the second quarter. Gates was the team’s leader in both receptions and receiving yards.
Analysis: Gates has four touchdowns this season, scoring his other two in a Week 4 loss at Pittsburgh. His lack of touchdowns this season has been somewhat frustrating to Fantasy owners, but he has still been one of the top-producing TEs in the game. He could be in for another big game Week 13 at Cleveland as the Browns’ passing defense is near the bottom of the league.
News: Chargers WR Legedu Naanee failed to catch a pass Week 12 against the Chiefs but did carry the ball one for 2 yards on Sunday in a Week 12 win over the Chiefs.
Analysis: Naanee is not one of Philip Rivers’ favored targets in the pass game and should not be owned in anything other than the deepest of Fantasy formats. Leave him on waivers for Week 13 at Cleveland.
News: Chargers WR Vincent Jackson had a relatively quiet game on Sunday in a Week 12 blowout win over the Chiefs. He had just two receptions in the game for a total of 27 yards. He also had one carry for 12 yards, failing to score a touchdown.
Analysis: Jackson has now failed to score a touchdown in each of his past three games and has only seven receptions for 93 yards during that three-game skid. Jackson’s injured ribs that he’s been dealing with could have something to do with his recent poor performance. However, he does have a chance to turn his fortunes around Week 13 as the Chargers take on a poor Cleveland pass defense. Think of Jackson as a must-start option for this game despite his recent struggles as he has the potential to put up big numbers at any time.
News: Chargers RB Darren Sproles wasn’t all that effective on the ground but did manage a better performance catching the ball out of the backfield in a Week 12 win over the Chiefs. Sproles carried the ball nine times in the game and gained 17 yards. He had five receptions, gaining 66 yards.
Analysis: Sproles has not been as effective in the run game this season as many Fantasy owners had hoped for as LaDainian Tomlinson has returned to form this year. He has not scored since Week 1 against Oakland and is yet to rush for more than 50 yards in a game. He remains at best a No. 3 Fantasy option for Week 13 at Cleveland.
News: Chargers RB Mike Tolbert was a bit more involved in the offense than normal on Sunday in a Week 12 win over the Chiefs. He carried the ball four times, gaining a total of 19 yards. He also had two catches for 17 yards in the contest.
Analysis: Tolbert had only 69 yards coming into Week 12, so this one performance was a bit out of the ordinary. He should remain on waivers for Week 13 at Cleveland.
News: Chargers RB LaDainian Tomlinson had his third multi-touchdown game of the season on Sunday in a Week 12 win over the Chiefs. He only managed to gain 39 yards on the ground but found the end zone twice on 13 carries. His longest run of the day went only 8 yards. His TDs came from 1 and 3 yards out. He also caught a pass that was good for 5 yards. He also coughed the ball up at the goal line once on what could have been a third TD for him. Tomlinson began the day 12th on the all-time list with 12,218 yards. He passed Marcus Allen (12,243) on a 5-yard carry in the first quarter and Edgerrin James (12,246) on an 8-yard run in the second. Tomlinson now has 12,257 for his career. Up next is Marshall Faulk in ninth with 12,279 yards.
Analysis: Eight different Chargers carried the ball on Sunday, which is not in the favor of Fantasy owners as many of those touches could have gone to Tomlinson. L.T. is yet to run for 100 yards in a game this season but does have eight scores through 11 games. Tomlinson should again be thought of as a low-end No. 1 Fantasy option Week 13 at Cleveland as the Browns have a poor run defense.
News: Chargers QB Billy Volek got a few snaps on Sunday in a Week 12 win over the Chiefs. He completed his only pass for 15 yards and lost 2 yards on two carries.
Analysis: Volek is not going to be getting too many snaps this season unless Philip Rivers gets hurt. He should remain on waivers for Week 13 at Cleveland.
Rivers throws all over Chiefs defense
Updated 11/29/2009
Chargers, TQB SD
News: Chargers QB Philip Rivers put together a solid performance on Sunday in a Week 12 win over the Chiefs. He completed 21 of his 28 passes in the game, throwing for 317 yards and two touchdowns. Both of the TD passes went to TE Antonio Gates. Rivers also carried the ball once for 4 yards. His passer rating for the game was 135.6.
Analysis: Rivers has put together three straight games with a passer rating above 100. He has five touchdowns during that three-game stretch and has not thrown an interception. The Chargers offense continues to be a force to be reckoned with and Rivers is one of the main reasons for its success. He should have another huge game against a poor Cleveland pass defense in Week 13.
News: Vikings RB Adrian Peterson didn't have his best performance Week 12 against the Bears, rushing for 85 yards on 25 carries and losing a fumble, but he did score a touchdown on a 5-yard run late in the fourth quarter. He also had two catches for 18 yards and lost a fumble.
Analysis: Peterson has rushed for 100 yards only once in his last five games and only three times this season. He no longer has to carry the Vikings offense now that QB Brett Favre has reemerged as an elite passer, but he's still plenty talented and is averaging more than a touchdown per game. He's still a top running back in Fantasy even if he's no longer the clear No. 1. Keep him active for Week 13 at Arizona.
Favre stays hot, sets season high
Updated 11/29/2009
Vikings, TQB MIN
News: Vikings QB Brett Favre had one of his best games during an already miraculous season Week 12 against the Bears, throwing for a season-high 392 yards on 32 of 48 passing. He also threw three touchdown passes -- a 6-yarder to Visanthe Shiancoe, a 10-yarder to Chester Taylor and a 15-yarder to Percy Harvin -- to give him 12 in his last four games.
Analysis: As crazy as it sounds, Favre might be having the best season of his career. He tends to go overlooked in Fantasy since he's 40 years old and didn't get much credit coming into the season, but he's back to being one of the elite passers in the NFL. He's a must-start for Week 13 at Arizona, as he is for every matchup.
News: Bears RB Matt Forte, who had less than 50 yards rushing in each of his last three games and five of his last six, continued the trend Week 12 at Minnesota, rushing for 27 yards on eight carries. He also had 34 yards on four receptions.
Analysis: Forte continues to underachieve for the Bears and the Fantasy owners who drafted him in the first round, but at least he's still something of a factor since he also contributes in the passing game. He has a good chance of putting together his best performance of the season Week 13 against the Rams, so you'll want him active for that matchup. Normally, he's just a low-end No. 2 Fantasy option, though.
Cutler not any better at Vikings
Updated 11/29/2009
Bears, TQB CHI
News: Bears QB Jay Cutler continued to struggle Week 12 at Minnesota, completing 18 of 23 passes for 147 yards with one touchdown and one interception. He now has two touchdowns and eight interceptions over his last three games, throwing for less than 200 yards in each of his last two.
Analysis: Cutler got hot in the middle of the year, but he's clearly struggling now, looking more like the same player who threw four interceptions back in Week 1. True, nine of his 20 interceptions have come in two games, but he's still hard to trust given his performance lately. Fortunately, he has a good chance to rebound against the Rams in Week 13. He's worth starting as a low-end No. 1 Fantasy option with that matchup.
News: Titans WR Kenny Britt, who entered the game with six catches for 97 yards over his last two after having one for 7 over his previous three, had a career game Week 12 against the Cardinals. He had seven catches for 128 yards and scored the game-winning touchdown as time expired on a 10-yard pass from QB Vince Young in the fourth quarter. "Once you see Vince scramble around, you never know if he's going to run it or throw it," Britt said. "You just have to stay alive, and that's what I did." Britt did lose a fumble, however.
Analysis: Britt nearly doubled up the team's second-leading receiver as Young threw for a career-high 387 yards. The Titans don't normally ask Young to throw so much, so you can't expect Britt to have many more games quite like this one. Still, he's emerging as a leading receiver for the Titans and is worth a look as a No. 3 Fantasy option Week 13 at Indianapolis as a result.
Chiefs defense can’t stop Chargers
Updated 11/29/2009
Chiefs, DST KC
News: Kansas City had few answers for the Chargers’ offense on Sunday in a Week 12 loss. The defense allowed 35 points in the game, including 28 points in the first half alone. Philip Rivers had a field day against the Chiefs’ secondary, throwing for 317 yards and two touchdowns on 21 of 28 passing. Billy Volek also completed a pass for 15 yards. On the ground, Ladainian Tomlinson led a rushing attack that accounted for 94 yards on 34 attempts and two touchdowns. The only turnover the Chiefs got was a fumble recovery.
Analysis: The Chiefs defense had been performing a bit better of late, but certainly took a step backwards with a poor performance against a good Chargers offense. The Chiefs should have a bit of a better showing against the Broncos in Week 13. The Chiefs DST remains a low-end Fantasy unit.
News: The Chiefs defense certainly struggled on Sunday against the Chiefs in a 43-14 loss. However, there were a few decent individual performances. Demorrio Williams led the team in tackling, racking up nine tackles. Brandon Flowers had five tackles in the game, also forcing a fumble. Corey Mays and Jon McGraw tied for second on the team in tackles with seven.
Analysis: The Chiefs defense doesn’t have too many playmakers on it and no one on the Chiefs defense is more than a low-end Fantasy option in IDP formats. The Chiefs take on the Broncos in Week 13.
News: Titans RB Chris Johnson had 18 carries for 154 yards against the Cardinals in Week 12, giving him at least 120 yards rushing in six straight games. He scored a touchdown -- his seventh during that stretch -- on an 85-yard run in the third quarter. He also had three catches for 32 yards.
Analysis: Johnson continues to run wild, and considering the Titans didn't even bother to activate LenDale White for this week's game, Johnson no longer has any competition out of the backfield. He has a good chance for a 2,000-yard and possibly even a record-setting season. He's arguably the top player in Fantasy, making him a must-start Week 13 at Indianapolis.
News: Chiefs PK Ryan Succop did not attempt a field goal on Sunday in a Week 12 loss to the Chargers. He did however hit both of the two extra points he attempted in the game.
Analysis: Succop had at least seven points in each of his past three starts but the Chiefs’ offense took a step back on Sunday against a good Chargers defense. The Chiefs will likely struggle to score again against a solid Denver defense in Week 12. Do not have Succop active for that contest unless you’re in a deeper league.
News: Chiefs TE Leonard Pope had a poor showing on Sunday in a Week 12 loss to the Chargers. He mustered only one reception, losing 3 yards on the play.
Analysis: Pope is not a relevant Fantasy option and should not be active in any format for Week 13 against the Broncos.
News: Kansas City FB Mike Cox had two receptions for 11 yards on Sunday in a Week 12 loss to the Chargers.
Analysis: Cox is more of a blocker for the Chiefs than anything else and his touches per game are extremely limited. Leave Cox on waivers in all formats for Fantasy Week 13 against the Broncos.
News: Chiefs WR Lance Long had two catches for a total of 15 yards on Sunday in a Week 12 loss to the Chargers.
Analysis: Long had one big game in Week 9 against Jacksonville when he got 74 yards on eight receptions, but has come back down to earth the past three weeks. He remains a low-end Fantasy option for Week 13 against Denver.
News: Kansas City WR Chris Chambers found the end zone Week 12 in a losing effort against his former team, San Diego. Chambers was the team’s leading receiver in the game, catching seven passes for 70 yards. His longest reception went for 14 yards and his second quarter TD pass was from 7 yards out.
Analysis: Chambers has made an immediate impact with the Chiefs in his first four games, scoring three touchdowns already with his new team after scoring only one with San Diego through the Chargers’ first seven games. With Dwayne Bowe suspended until Week 15, Chambers should continue to be QB Matt Cassel’s top target. The Chiefs take on a decent pass defense at Denver in Week 13 and Chambers should be considered a decent starting Fantasy option.
News: Chiefs RB Tim Castille, who was recently signed by the team, got two carries for minus-2 yards and two receptions for 9 yards on Sunday in a Week 12 loss to the Chargers.
Analysis: Castille is not a relevant Fantasy option and can be ignored in all formats. The Chiefs take on Denver in Week 13.
News: Chiefs RB Kolby Smith got one run for 1 yard and one catch for 5 yards on Sunday in a Week 12 loss to the Chargers.
Analysis: Smith is not getting an increase in touches with Larry Johnson having moved on as Jamaal Charles continues to shoulder the load. He is at best a handcuff option for Charles at this point in the season. The Chiefs take on Denver in Week 13.
News: Chiefs RB Jamaal Charles was the team’s top offensive performer on Sunday in a Week 12 loss to the Chargers. He carried the ball 14 times in the game for 93 yards, scoring a touchdown in the third quarter from 4 yards out. Charles also caught three passes in the game for 54 yards, including a 49-yarder. However, he did lose a fumble in the game.
Analysis: Charles has been solid for the Chiefs since taking over the full-time ball-carrying duties back in Week 10 at Oakland. He has a touchdown in each of the past three games and more than 100 total yards in two of those contests. The Chiefs face a run of the mill Denver run defense in Week 13. Get Charles active as a No. 2 Fantasy RB for that game.
News: Chiefs backup QB Brodie Croyle came on in relief of Matt Cassel in the fourth quarter of Sunday’s Week 12 loss to the Chargers. Croyle completed one of the two passes he threw for 3 yards.
Analysis: Croyle was only on the field because the game was out of reach. Croyle will continue to have no Fantasy value unless Cassel gets injured.
Cassel not great at San Diego
Updated 11/29/2009
Chiefs, TQB KC
News: Chiefs QB Matt Cassel did had a fair performance Week 12 at San Diego. Cassel was 19 for 31 through the air for a total of 178 yards. He had a touchdown pass to Chris Chambers, an interception and a lost fumble in the game. Cassel also carried the ball six times, gaining 22 yards.
Analysis: Cassel really struggled against San Diego this season, throwing for only 97 yards and three interceptions back in Week 7 at home against the Chargers. He has been decent so far in his first year with the Chiefs and the addition of Chris Chambers to the team seems to have helped re-energize the aerial attack. The Chiefs take on Denver in Week 13 and Cassel should be considered at best a low-end No. 2 Fantasy option for that contest as the Broncos have one of the best pass defenses in the league.
V. Young getting better and better
Updated 11/29/2009
Titans, TQB TEN
News: Titans QB Vince Young threw for a career-high 387 yards in a comeback victory against the Cardinals in Week 12, leading his team on a game-winning 99-yard touchdown drive at the end of regulation. He capped that drive with a 10-yard touchdown pass to Kenny Britt for his only score of the game. He also ran four times for 8 yards.
Analysis: Young had only once thrown for 200 yards in his previous four starts, so although he has led the Titans to five straight victories, his contributions don't show up in the box score. But that could obviously change if he has more performances like this one. He's worth adding off the waiver wire, especially since he's also a good rusher, but he remains just a No. 2 Fantasy QB for Week 13 at Indianapolis.
News: Cardinals WR Steve Breaston, who went without a catch last week when QB Kurt Warner missed the second half with concussion-like symptoms, had four catches for only 26 yards Week 12 at Tennessee. Warner missed the entire game.
Analysis: Breaston was consistently picking up 50-80 yards through the air before Warner got hurt, so you have to think the change at quarterback has a lot to do with his recent struggles. Warner almost played this week, so he'll likely return Week 13 against the Vikings. Think of Breaston as a No. 3 Fantasy WR for that matchup.
Browns give up 16 points in Week 12
Updated 11/29/2009
Browns, DST CLE
News: The Browns held the Bengals to just 16 points in Week 12 against Cincinnati, but they lost the game 16-7. They allowed 306 yards of total offense and did not force a turnover in the game and had three sacks.
Analysis: The Browns defensive unit has had it's fair share of rough games this season, but they actually held their own against the Bengals in Week 12. In Week 13, they'll play a very potent Chargers team that scored 43 points in Week 12 and that makes them a unit to avoid.
Bengals hold Browns to 169 yards
Updated 11/29/2009
Bengals, DST CIN
News: The Bengals allowed just 169 yards and seven points in Week 12 against the Cleveland Browns. They did not force any turnovers in the game and had just one sack in the game.
Analysis: The Bengals defense had an all-around great day, stifling both the ground and air games of the Browns offense. But they did not force any turnovers and did not pressure Brady Quinn much in the game. The Bengals defensive unit remains one of the better units in Fantasy, however, and they face a great matchup in Week 13 against the Lions. Start them in all leagues.
News: Cardinals WR Larry Fitzgerald, who entered the game with seven touchdowns in his last seven, had his worst game of the season Week 12 at Tennessee, equaling a season low with 34 yards on four receptions. The Cardinals had Matt Leinart at quarterback instead of Kurt Warner.
Analysis: Fitzgerald hadn't gone for less than 66 yards through the air since Week 2, so you can write off this bad performance as a fluke brought on by the change at quarterback. Warner almost started this week, so he's a safe bet to return Week 13 against the Vikings. Fitzgerald remains one of the most reliable wide receivers in Fantasy and a must-start in all leagues.
News: Seahawks DE Cory Redding has been diagnosed with a concussion following Seattle's Week 12 win over St. Louis.
Analysis: Redding, who had a sack on Sunday, isn't much of an option in IDP leagues, so his absence won't hurt Fantasy owners if he has to miss some time.
News: Bengals kicker Shayne Graham converted three field goals, including a 53-yarder in Week 12 against Cleveland. He he added an extra point and finished with 10 points.
Analysis: Graham gained extra bonus points in leagues that reward field-goal distance, but even in those that don't he put up a very useful 10 points. Graham has managed his only two double-digit performances this season in two of his last three games. He can be considered a viable stopgap in deeper leagues when seeing favorable matchups as he'll see in Week 12 against Cleveland.
News: Browns kicker Phil Dawson did not attempt a field goal in Week 12 at Cincinnati. He converted just an extra point and finished with 1 point in the game.
Analysis: Dawson plays for one of the weaker offensive teams in the NFL. Until that changes, he should be avoided in all Fantasy leagues. The Browns play against San Diego in Week 13.
News: Rams LB James Laurinaitis (nine tackles, sack), RB Oshiomogho Atogwe (nine tackles), LB Paris Lenon (three tackles, forced fumble) and DB Justin King (tackle, fumble recovery) all played well in a Week 12 loss to the Seahawks.
Analysis: Laurinaitis is having a stellar rookie season and ranks in the top 10 in tackles among linebackers. He is a must-start elite option in IDP leagues. Atogwe is also a solid starting choice, while King and Lenon have no Fantasy value.
News: Browns RB Lawrence Vickers caught one pass for 2 yards in Week 12 at Cincinnati. He was thrown to just one time in the game.
Analysis: Vickers will come up with a random touchdown every now and again but largely has zero Fantasy value at this time. Do not use him in any league until further notice.
News: Seahawks DB Jordan Babineaux (13 tackles, interception), LB Davis Hawthorne (seven tackles, sack), DL Patrick Kerney (four tackles, sack), LB Leroy Hill (four tackles, sack), DL Cory Redding (two tackles, sack) and DB Josh Wilson (two tackles, interception) all had fine outings in a Week 12 win over the Rams.
Analysis: Hawthorne is a stud LB in IDP formats, while Kerney is a viable option in deeper leagues. The others in this group have minimal or zero Fantasy value heading into Week 13 vs. San Francisco.
News: Browns WR Mike Furrey caught one pass for 9 yards in Week 12 at Cincinnati. He was thrown to just once in the game.
Analysis: Furrey has just four games this season with more than one catch. He does not get enough looks in the offense to be considered useful in Fantasy.
News: Chargers FS Eric Weddle left in the second quarter of Sunday's game against the Chiefs because of a knee injury and did not return. Weddle had two tackles in the game before leaving with the injury.
Analysis: Weddle has had a solid season with the Chargers and is currently active in 71 percent of Fantasy leagues. If he is out for an extended period, it will be a big blow to Fantasy owners in IDP formats. When healthy, he is a must-start Fantasy option.
Analysis: Posluszny is the most Fantasy-viable name in this group and starts in most IDP leagues as a solid LB. Scott and Whitner have some minimal value in deeper leagues, while the others are not worth worrying about in Week 13 vs. the Jets.
News: Browns WR Mohamed Massaquoi had just one catch for 12 yards in Week 12 at Cincinnati. He was targeted eight times in the game, however.
Analysis: Massaquoi was thrown to plenty in the game, but he was once again the victim of a very inefficient pass offense that managed only 101 yards in the game. He has three solid performances and eight forgettable ones this year, so starting him is like trying to catch lightning in a bottle. Don't activate him for Week 13 vs. San Diego.
News: Dolphins DL Randy Starks (five tackles, half a sack), LB Jason Taylor (three tackles, half a sack), DL Tony McDaniel (two tackles, 1 1/2 sacks) and DL Kendall Langford (half a sack) all got to the QB in a Week 12 loss at Buffalo.
Analysis: Starks has emerged as a viable starting DL in deeper IDP leagues this season, while Taylor still has some value in larger formats despite his drop in numbers. The others can continue to be ignored.
News: Dolphins LB Joey Porter made 2 1/2 sacks in a Week 12 loss to the Bills.
Analysis: Since his benching, Porter now has 4 1/2 sacks in his last two games. For now he remains a low-end IDP option, but if he keeps playing well he will rocket up the rankings.
News: Dolphins DB Yeremiah Bell made a game-high 13 tackles and an interception in Miami's Week 12 loss to the Bills.
Analysis: Bell is having a great 2009 season as he ranks second among DBs with 83 tackles and now has a pair of touchdowns. Continue to use him in most IDP leagues as a solid DB option.
News: Browns TE Greg Estandia caught one pass for 17 yards in Week 12 at Cincinnati. He was thrown to four times in the game.
Analysis: Estandia has just two catches this season. He clearly has no Fantasy appeal and should be left on waivers in all leagues until further notice.
News: Cardinals WR Anquan Boldin, coming off back-to-back 100-yard games, had only 53 yards on five catches at Tennessee in Week 12. He led the team in both categories, though.
Analysis: The Cardinals' passing game slumped with Matt Leinart under center, so you shouldn't downgrade Boldin based on this one performance. Kurt Warner should return to the lineup Week 13 against the Vikings, and he and Boldin have clicked lately after a slow start. Keep Boldin active as a No. 2 Fantasy WR even with the tough matchup.
News: Browns WR Chansi Stuckey had four catches for 44 yards to lead all Browns receivers in Week 12 at Cincinnati. He was targeted eight times in the game.
Analysis: Stuckey was the leading receiver on an afternoon when the Browns threw for just 101 yards. He is owned in under 5 percent of CBSSports.com and that should not change down the stretch as the Browns have one of the worst offenses in the NBA. Sit him in all leagues until further notice.
News: Cardinals RB Beanie Wells, who topped 70 yards rushing each of the last three weeks, had only 20 on eight carries at Tennessee in Week 12. Tim Hightower, his primary competition out of the backfield, had only 55 on 11 carries. Wells also had a 21-yard catch.
Analysis: The Cardinals didn't have a particularly good day running the ball even with QB Kurt Warner on the sidelines. Wells is still the lesser of the two options out of the Cardinals' backfield, but he has played a more significant role lately. He's worth starting in the right matchups, but he's just a low-end No. 3 Fantasy RB in Week 13 since the Cardinals have a tough matchup against the Vikings.
News: Bengals TE J.P. Foschi caught a touchdown pass in Week 12 against Cleveland, a 4-yard pass in the second quarter. He had two catches for 11 yards in the game.
Analysis: Foschi is not a regular target in the pass offense and Fantasy owners should not read into this touchdown. Leave him on waivers until further notice.
News: Rams TE Randy McMichael made a 12-yard catch in a Week 12 loss to Seattle.
Analysis: McMichael starts for the Rams, but the Rams have a pitiful offense, making him nothing more than an afterthought for Fantasy purposes. Leave him for deeper leagues when the Rams visit Chicago in Week 13.
News: The Browns WR Laveranues Coles was thrown to a team-high nine times in Week 12 against Cleveland, but he caught just two passes for 24 yards.
Analysis: The Bengals sure tried to get Coles the ball, but Fantasy owners should not be expecting much from him anyway. He has not had a 100-yard receiving game this season and has had five catches just three times this season. In Week 13, the Bengals have a very favorable matchup against the Lions, which could make him a sleeper in larger formats.
News: Cardinals RB Tim Hightower, who ran for a season-high 110 yards last week but had gone three games without a touchdown, got back in the end zone Week 12 at Tennessee. He finished with 11 carries for 55 yards, scoring on a 6-yard run in the fourth quarter. He also had three catches for 23 yards.
Analysis: Hightower is still the main man in the Cardinals' backfield even though rookie Beanie Wells' role has increased in recent weeks. He won't have many more 100-yard games since the Cardinals run such a pass-heavy offense, but he's a good receiver out of the backfield and gets plenty of carries at the goal line. Normally, he's a No. 2 Fantasy RB, but he's more like a No. 3 with a tough matchup at Minnesota in Week 13.
News: Rams WR Brandon Gibson made three catches for 18 yards in a Week 12 loss to Seattle.
Analysis: After two decent weeks, Gibson came back to earth a little in Week 12. Continue to leave him for deeper leagues as a flier flex option in Week 13 at Chicago.
News: Bengals WR Andre Caldwell caught three passes for 33 yards in Week 12 against Cleveland. He was was targeted three times in the game.
Analysis: Caldwell is the No. 3 WR for the Bengals behind Chad Ochocinco and Laveranues Coles. He does not get enough looks to be considered useful in Fantasy, even in a week with a favorable matchup like he'll have in Week 13 against Detroit.
News: Cardinals QB Matt Leinart, getting a start after Kurt Warner left last week's game with concussion-like symptoms, wasn't bad Week 12 at Tennessee, but he wasn't as explosive as Warner either. He completed 21 of 31 passes for 220 yards, but he didn't throw a touchdown pass. Then again, he didn't commit a turnover either.
Analysis: Leinart led the Cardinals to only 17 points in a game they ultimately lost, so you can bet they'll be anxious to get Kurt Warner back in the lineup Week 13 against the Vikings. Warner almost played this week, so he's a safe bet to return next week. Don't bother adding Leinart unless you play in such a deep league that even some backup quarterbacks deserve roster spots.
News: Seahawks WR T.J. Houshmandzadeh had his worst outing of the season Sunday in a Week 12 win over the Rams. Housh was held to just two passes for 14 yards.
Analysis: Apart from his monster Week 10 outing, Housh has been very disappointing over the last few weeks. He's just a boom-or-bust No. 3 Fantasy receiver and you should be very careful in relying on him during Week 13 vs. San Francisco.
Analysis: The Texans have some solid defensive players in Williams, Ryans and Cushing. Plan on using all your regular Texans in IDP leagues in Week 13 at Jacksonville.
News: The Texans had four players dress Sunday against the Colts who did not record an offensive stat with TE Anthony Hill, backup QB Rex Grossman, WR Andre Davis and RB Ryan Moats.
Analysis: Moats has minimal Fantasy value now that Steve Slaton is back as the starter and Chris Brown is the backup. Ignore Moats and the rest of these players in Week 13 at Jacksonville.
Texans DST gets two interceptions
Updated 11/29/2009
Texans, DST HOU
News: The Texans DST had two interceptions Sunday against the Colts but did little else. They also added two sacks in a 35-27 loss. Andre Davis had two kickoff returns for 44 yards, and Jacoby Jones had one kickoff return for 29 yards and two punt returns for 8 yards.
Analysis: The Texans DST is a low-end unit in Fantasy leagues. Don't plan on using them in Week 13 at Jacksonville.
News: Texans kicker Kris Brown bounced back from his bad outing against Tennessee last week with a good game against the Colts on Sunday. Brown was perfect on two field goals and three extra points. His long field goal was 35 yards.
Analysis: Brown had missed three field goals in his past two games, including two game-tying kicks, coming into the game with the Colts, so he needed this performance. Hopefully he can build on this game heading into Week 13 against Jacksonville. Consider Brown a low-end No. 1 Fantasy option.
News: Ravens DB Ed Reed (foot) was able to play in Week 13 against Pittsburgh. He had been listed as questionable on the injury report.
Analysis: Reed has played through a few injuries this season, never missing a game. He gets enough tackles and interceptions when healthy to serve as a No. 1 DB in Fantasy IDP leagues.
News: Ravens LB Terrell Suggs (knee) was deactivated for Week 12 against Baltimore. He had been listed as doubtful on the injury report and was not expected to play.
Analysis: Suggs was injured in Week 10 and was expected to be out for about three weeks. That would make it possible he could return for Week 13, but you'll have to monitor his progress. Suggs is a solid option in IDP formats when healthy, but should be reserved in all formats until further notice.
News: Texans WR Jacoby Jones had three catches for 27 yards and a touchdown Sunday against the Colts.
Analysis: Jones has played well this season for the Texans, but he has minimal Fantasy value in the majority of leagues. Don't plan on starting him in Week 13 against Jacksonville even with the touchdown against the Colts.
News: Texans WR Andre Johnson had five catches for 67 yards Sunday against the Colts. Johnson now has only one touchdown in his past six games.
Analysis: Johnson will play at Jacksonville in Week 13, and he had four catches for 86 yards against the Jaguars earlier this year. Johnson only has five touchdowns on the season, but he remains a No. 1 Fantasy WR. Keep him active in all leagues.
News: Texans WR Kevin Walter had seven catches for 73 yards Sunday against the Colts. He also had one carry for 3 yards. This was Walter's best game since Week 3 against Jacksonville when he had seven catches for 96 yards and a touchdown.
Analysis: It's a good thing Walter played like this since he faces the Jaguars again in Week 13. Hopefully this is a sign of things to come for Walter heading into the final stretch of the season, and consider Walter a No. 3 Fantasy WR against the Jaguars in the rematch.
News: Bengals WR Chad Ochocinco caught three passes for 38 yards in Week 12 against Cleveland. He was targeted five times in the game.
Analysis: 0chocinco led the team in catches and receiving yards on an afternoon when the Bengals threw for just 110 yards. It wasn't that the passing game was not effective, really, but that the Bengals were able to run the ball so well that they stayed with the running game. Fantasy owners should still view Ochocinco as a viable No. 2 WR for Week 13 against a weak Lions pass defense.
Analysis: Roethlisberger is the only offensive player on this list with any Fantasy value, and had already been declared out earlier this week, so he should be on your bench at this point. Polamalu is a solid IDP option when healthy, but he was also ruled out before Sunday. Continue to ignore all the other guys in Fantasy play.
News: Texans RB Chris Brown had 11 carries for 56 yards and a touchdown Sunday against the Colts. He also had three catches for 20 yards.
Analysis: Brown shared carries with Steve Slaton, who had 106 total yards Sunday. Brown continues to be a factor for the Texans and should be considered a low-end No. 3 Fantasy RB at Jacksonville in Week 13.
News: Texans RB Steve Slaton had 10 carries for 57 yards and caught seven passes for 49 yards Sunday against the Colts. Slaton started the game but shared carries with Chris Brown, who had 11 carries for 56 yards and a touchdown and caught three passes for 20 yards.
Analysis: Slaton continues to play better after being benched for his fumble woes, but he's still not playing like a standout Fantasy option. Still, his total production, especially in leagues where receptions count, has been fine heading into Week 13 at Jacksonville. Slaton had 113 total yards against the Jaguars earlier this season.
Schaub starts hot, struggles in end
Updated 11/29/2009
Texans, TQB HOU
News: Texans QB Matt Schaub got off to a hot start Sunday against the Colts but didn't finish that way. Schaub was 31 of 42 passing for 284 yards, two touchdowns and two interceptions, but the majority of his production came in the first half. He also had two carries for 6 yards and lost a fumble.
Analysis: Schaub's final stats were good for Fantasy owners even though the turnovers are tough to deal with. Still, Schaub remains a No. 1 Fantasy QB and should play well in Week 13 at Jacksonville. He had 300 yards, three touchdowns and an interception earlier this year against the Jaguars.
News: Bengals RB Brian Leonard got one carry for 1 yard in Week 12 against Cleveland. He also caught a pass for 6 yards.
Analysis: Leonard is a fullback who is used mainly as a blocker for the Bengals. Unless his role changes dramatically, he should not be owned in Fantasy.
News: Dolphins WR Greg Camarillo, TE Joey Haynos and TE Kory Sperry all played in a Week 12 loss at Buffalo but failed to record an offensive stat.
Analysis: Camarillo and Haynos can have an impact in the Miami offense now and again, but all of these guys should be ignored in Week 13 vs. New England.
News: Dolphins WR Ted Ginn Jr. caught two passes for 18 yards in a Week 12 loss at Buffalo.
Analysis: Ginn is getting known more for his drops than his catches, but is still somehow owned in 31 percent of leagues. Continue to ignore him in Week 13 vs. New England.
News: The Philadelphia Eagles had two players active for the Week 12 win over Washington fail to stat in the game. Those players are as follows: Wide receiver Reggie Brown and tight end Alex Smith.
Analysis: Brown and Smith have minimal Fantasy value in all leagues and should not be used in Week 13 against the Falcons.
News: Bengals RB Larry Johnson rushed a team-high 22 times for 107 yards in Week 12 against Cleveland, his highest rushing total of the season -- for the Chiefs or the Bengals. He shared the running load with Bernard Scott, who carried 18 times for 87 yards. Johnson also caught two passes for minus-2 yards.
Analysis: Scott got the start in place of Cedric Benson, who was out with an injury. And Scott got the majority of the carries early, but as the team started to give Johnson more and more of the touches, he established himself and the Bengals were able to ride the hot hand. Both players got nearly 20 carries in a game where Cincinnati ran the ball down Cleveland's throat for nearly 60 minutes, but their appeal will be reduced greatly once Ced-Ben returns for Week 13 against Detroit. Neither player would be worth more than a No. 3 RB slot if that happens.
News: The Colts had several players do well Sunday at Houston. Robert Mathis had two tackles, one sack and a forced fumble. Antoine Bethea had four tackles and an interception. Clint Session had nine tackles and an interception. Raheem Brock had three tackles, a sack and a forced fumble. Gary Brackett had five tackles.
Analysis: The Colts defenders continue to play well and should remain active in all leagues in Week 13 against Tennessee. Use all your regulars in IDP play.
News: Dolphins rookie WR Brian Hartline caught three passes for 31 yards and his second NFL touchdown in a Week 12 loss at Buffalo.
Analysis: Hartline has popped up now and again with a contribution for the Dolphins, but he's nowhere near worth using in Fantasy play heading into Week 13 vs. New England. He's a low-end long-term keeper at best.
News: Bengals RB Larry Johnson rushed a team-high 22 times for 107 yards in Week 12 against Cleveland, his highest rushing total of the season -- for the Chiefs or the Bengals. He shared the running load with Bernard Scott, who carried 18 times for 87 yards. Johnson also caught two passes for minus-2 yards.
Analysis: Scott got the start in place of Cedric Benson, who was out with an injury. And Scott got the majority of the carries early, but as the team started to give Johnson more and more of the touches, he established himself and the Bengals were able to ride the hot hand. Both players got nearly 20 carries in a game where Cincinnati ran the ball down Cleveland's throat for nearly 60 minutes, but their appeal will be reduced greatly once Ced-Ben returns for Week 13 against Detroit. Neither player would be worth more than a No. 3 RB slot if that happens.
News: Washington TE Todd Yoder, backup QB Todd Collins and WR Marko Mitchell all played in the Week 12 loss at Philadelphia. All failed to stat.
Analysis: Yoder will continue to score the occasional touchdown but will never be counted upon in Fantasy play. Leave him and the others listed above on waivers in all Fantasy leagues for Week 13 against the Saints.
News: Dolphins WR Davone Bess had three catches for 34 yards in a Week 12 loss at Buffalo.
Analysis: Bess had averaged five catches in each of his previous four games before Sunday, but took a little lesser role in Buffalo. Only worry about him in super-deep leagues for Week 13 vs. New England.
Colts DST gets two interceptions
Updated 11/29/2009
Colts, DST IND
News: The Colts DST had two interceptions, one fumble recovery and two sacks Sunday at Houston. Chad Simpson had four kickoff returns for 68 yards, and T.J. Rushing had one punt return for 7 yards.
Analysis: The Colts DST continues to play like a low-end No. 1 Fantasy option. Keep them active in all leagues in Week 13 against Tennessee.
News: Atlanta RB Aaron Stecker and WR Marty Booker failed to stat in the Week 12 win over Tampa Bay. Both were active.
Analysis: Stecker is clearly not going to be a factor in Fantasy this season. Michael Turner was injured in this game and Jason Snelling didn't even get any extra touches. Stecker is way out of the loop. Leave he and Booker on waivers in all leagues for Week 13 against the Eagles.
News: Dolphins QB Pat White got one carry for 2 yards in a Week 12 loss at Buffalo.
Analysis: White could eventually have some value in deeper formats if the "Wild Pat" comes into vogue in Miami, but Fantasy owners need not have him active for Week 13 vs. New England.
News: Dolphins RB Lex Hilliard ran five times for 22 yards and caught two passes for 15 yards in a Week 12 loss at Buffalo.
Analysis: Hilliard is currently the No. 2 back in Miami, but he's not going to get enough carries to be worth using in Fantasy play unless Ricky Williams gets hurt. Don't start him in Week 13 vs. New England.
News: Tampa Bay RB Chris Pressley was given the start at FB in the Week 12 game at Atlanta. He did not touch the ball in the game and was used as a blocker. Tight end John Gilmore and backup QB Josh Johnson also did not stat in the game.
Analysis: Pressley won't touch the ball enough to warrant Fantasy use. Keep him off of rosters. The same goes with the other two players listed above. Tampa Bay plays at Carolina in Week 13.
News: Colts kicker Matt Stover missed his lone field goal attempt Sunday at Houston. He did make five extra points.
Analysis: Stover could be on the verge of losing his job with Adam Vinatieri (knee) expected to return soon. Keep an eye on what happens with Vinatieri heading into Week 13 against Tennessee because whoever starts for the Colts would be considered a No. 1 Fantasy kicker.
News: Tampa Bay starting WR Michael Clayton injured his knee on the Bucs' first possession of the Week 12 game at Atlanta. Clayton did not make a catch in the game and did not return.
Analysis: Clayton doesn't produce enough stats to warrant Fantasy use most weeks. Keep him off of rosters for Week 13 at Carolina, if healthy.
News: Colts WR Reggie Wayne had only three catches for 19 yards Sunday at Houston, but he did score a touchdown. Wayne now has nine touchdowns on the season.
Analysis: Wayne continues to play like a No. 1 WR in all Fantasy leagues heading into Week 13 against Tennessee. Wayne had six catches for 60 yards and a touchdown in Week 5 against the Titans, so hopefully he can repeat that performance in the rematch.
Rams DST does usual nothing
Updated 11/29/2009
Rams, DST STL
News: The Rams DST gave up 27 points and 265 yards to the Seahawks in a Week 12 loss. They managed one fumble recovery and a single sack.
Analysis: The Rams are one of the worst units in Fantasy play, and you should continue to stay well away from them in Week 12 at Chicago.
Falcons DST weak in Week 12
Updated 11/29/2009
Falcons, DST ATL
News: The Atlanta Falcons did not play all that well against the 1-9 Tampa Bay Bucs on Sunday of Week 12. Atlanta was losing for much of the game and they lost their starting quarterback and running back in the game. The Falcons DST allowed 318 yards of offense to the inept Bucs. Atlanta did win the game on a late-game game-winning touchdown drive, 20-17. The Falcons DST picked up just one sack in the game and forced only one turnover.
Analysis: To recap, the Falcons DST couldn't limit the yards or points of a team with only one win this season and they managed only a single turnover and sack in the game. They don't get after the quarterback very well and aren't a useful unit outside of weeks with real favorable matchups. They play the Eagles in Week 13 and we wouldn't recommend their Fantasy use.
News: Browns RB Chris Jennings had two carries for 5 yards in Week 12 at Cincinnati. He caught one pass for 4 yards. Jerome Harrison rushed twice for 3 yards. He also caught three passes for 5 yards.
Analysis: Harrison does not see enough touches to be considered useful in Fantasy. Leave him reserved in all leagues until that changes.
Seahawks DST has decent day vs. Rams
Updated 11/29/2009
Seahawks, DST SEA
News: The Seahawks DST allowed 17 points and 364 yards to the Rams in a Week 12 win, but redeemed themselves by tallying two interceptions and four sacks.
Analysis: Seattle has had a handful of quality performances this season, but they've mostly been unusable except when they've had obviously great matchups like they did in Week 12. They have an OK matchup in Week 13 vs. San Francisco, but there are better options out there.
News: Colts WR Pierre Garcon had five catches for 63 yards and a touchdown Sunday at Houston. It was Garcon's fourth touchdown of the season.
Analysis: Garcon heads into Week 13 against Tennessee playing like a solid No. 2 Fantasy WR. He only had one catch for 9 yards in the first meeting with the Titans, but Garcon should remain active in the rematch.
News: Browns RB Chris Jennings had two carries for 5 yards in Week 12 at Cincinnati. Jerome Harrison rushed twice for 3 yards.
Analysis: Jennings does not see enough touches to be considered useful in Fantasy. Leave him reserved in all leagues until that changes.
Bucs DST manages 6 sacks Week 12
Updated 11/29/2009
Buccaneers, DST TB
News: Tampa Bay did a nice job limited the Falcons to just 297 total yards in the Week 12 contest between the two teams. The Bucs also took away two of Atlanta's top offensive weapons as they hurt RB Michael Turner and QB Matt Ryan in the game. Unfortunately, backup QB Chris Redman engineered a game-winning drive the closing minutes and the Bucs still lost the game, 20-17. The Buccaneers DST forced one turnover on a Jason Snelling fumble and also sacked Falcons quarterbacks six times in the game. Stylez White had 2.5 sacks and Tim Crowder had 1.5.
Analysis: The Bucs DST limited the yardage but not the points and could not win the game. The six sacks were great but they only managed a single turnover forced. Ultimately, the Buccaneers DST shouldn't be considered for Fantasy use for Week 13 at Carolina.
Bills DST makes four picks in win
Updated 11/29/2009
Bills, DST BUF
News: The Bills DST made four interceptions, one sack, and allowed 325 yards and 14 points to the Dolphins in a Week 12 win.
Analysis: The Bills forced Chad Henne (3) and Ricky Williams (1) into throwing them the ball on Sunday, but not many Fantasy owners got to benefit as the DST unit was only starting in five percent of leagues. Only use Buffalo in Week 13 vs. the Jets if you're in a deep leagues and your unit has a tough matchup.
News: Colts TE Dallas Clark had another big game Sunday at Houston. Clark had nine catches for 63 yards and a touchdown. Clark now has five touchdowns on the season.
Analysis: Clark is a must-start option in all Fantasy leagues heading into Week 13 against Tennessee. Clark had nine catches for 77 yards in Week 5 against the Titans, so hopefully he can duplicate that performance again while also finding the end zone.
News: Browns RB Jamal Lewis gained just 40 rushing yards on 11 carries. He did not have any catches in the game. Lewis has rushed for 100-plus yards just once this season.
Analysis: Lewis has yet to score a touchdown this season and while he continues to see most of the carries in Cleveland, he's the main running back for one of the worst offenses in football. He should be considered just a No. 3 Fantasy option for Week 13 vs. San Diego.
Dolphins DST has mixed day in loss
Updated 11/29/2009
Dolphins, DST MIA
News: The Dolphins DST allowed 31 points and 336 yards to the Bills in a Week 12 loss, but did manage to tally six sacks and an interception.
Analysis: Miami had a frustrating game on Sunday, and their DST owners will be a little puzzled at their output. Things won't get any easier in Week 13 when they host the Patriots, a matchup that should force the Dolphins DST to most benches.
News: Colts rookie WR Austin Collie had four catches for 70 yards Sunday at Houston. This was Collie's best game since Week 5 when he had eight catches for 97 yards and two touchdowns against Tennessee.
Analysis: This game comes at a good time for Collie since he's facing the Titans in Week 13. Hopefully he can repeat his previous performance, and consider Collie a No. 3 Fantasy WR in the rematch.
News: Atlanta K Jason Elam recorded eight points in the Week 12 win over Tampa Bay. Elam went 2 of 3 on field goals and hit on a long of 45 yards. He went 2 of 2 on PATs as well. Earlier this week, the Falcons tried out other kicking options and the miss on Sunday could mean they will take his starting job away.
Analysis: Elam has yet to score double digits in points this season but has at least seven in five straight games. That kind of consistency might tempt you to use him in Week 13 against the Eagles. He’s a lower-end Fantasy option but you certainly wouldn’t be foolish to start him. There are better options available, however.
News: Colts RB Chad Simpson had a late touchdown run Sunday at Houston. Simpson finished the game with two carries for 20 yards and a touchdown.
Analysis: Simpson is the No. 3 RB for the Colts behind Joseph Addai and Donald Brown. Don't plan on using Simpson in the majority of leagues in Week 13 against Tennessee.
News: Atlanta WR Roddy White came up huge when it mattered most for the Falcons in Week 12 against Tampa Bay. White scored on a 5-yard touchdown pass from backup Chris Redman in the waning seconds of the game to win 20-17. White finished the game with five catches for 57 yards and the touchdown.
Analysis: White has not done much in his last two games, especially before he came down with the game-winning touchdown Sunday. He hadn’t found the end zone since Week 8 against New Orleans before scoring with 23 seconds left in Week 12. He continues to be the Falcons’ No. 1 option at receiver but with Matt Ryan possibly injured, his value shouldn’t be in the No. 1 Fantasy WR range for Week 13 against the Eagles. Treat him as a No. 2 Fantasy option and hope the White who scored five touchdowns in four weeks earlier this season returns.
News: Bills K Rian Lindell kicked a 56-yard field goal and four PATS, but missed a 44-yarder in a Week 12 win over the Miami.
Analysis: Lindell has been largely the most consistent Fantasy option for the Bills this year, but he doesn't get a whole ton of chances to rack up points. Continue to leave him for just the deepest of leagues in Week 13 vs. the Jets.
News: Colts rookie RB Donald Brown had five carries for 27 yards and caught two passes for 11 yards Sunday at Houston.
Analysis: Brown continues to struggle for Fantasy owners, and he should not be used in the majority of leagues in Week 13 against Tennessee. Brown remains the No. 2 RB for the Colts behind Joseph Addai (82 total yards). As long as Addai is active and healthy, keep Brown reserved.
News: Atlanta WR Michael Jenkins had a great game in the win over Tampa Bay in Week 12. Jenkins had seven receptions for 80 yards in the game.
Analysis: Jenkins actually looked better once Chris Redman came into the game for Matt Ryan, who suffered a toe injury. He’s been good for a few catches per game and around 20-50 yards receiving but still hasn’t scored a touchdown this season for Atlanta. Until he becomes more consistent with better numbers, Jenkins is just a low-end Fantasy option. Treat him as such for Week 13 against the Eagles’ excellent pass defense.
News: Dolphins K Dan Carpenter didn't attempt a field goal and had just two extra points in a Week 12 loss at Buffalo.
Analysis: Apart from his one-point effort to open the season, this was clearly Carpenter's worst outing of 2009. When he gets his opportunities, he's nailed most of them, but the Miami offense is just a little too erratic. Only use him in deeper leagues for Week 13 vs. New England.
News: Browns WR Josh Cribbs had three catches for 7 yards in Week 12 at Cincinnati. He also rushed once for no gain and completed a pass for 18 yards to QB Brady Quinn.
Analysis: The Browns try to get Cribbs involved from time to time for his speed, but his upside is most in leagues where you are rewarded for his kick return yardage. We don't recommend starting him as a typical Fantasy WR for Week 13 against San Diego.
News: Colts RB Joseph Addai had 15 carries for 69 yards and caught three passes for 13 yards Sunday at Houston. This was the first time Addai failed to score a touchdown in his past nine games.
Analysis: Addai continues to have an amazing season, and he produces each week. But this was the first time since Week 2 that he failed to reach double digits in Fantasy points. Look for Addai to bounce back in Week 13 against Tennessee. Addai had 14 carries for 27 yards and a touchdown and caught 10 passes for 53 yards against the Titans earlier this year.
News: Atlanta TE Tony Gonzalez caught nine passes for 83 yards to lead the team in the Week 12 win over Tampa Bay. Gonzalez did not score in the game but he came up huge on the game's final drive for the Falcons. Backup QB Chris Redman, who came on for an injured Matt Ryan, looked to Gonzalez time and time again to get open to gain chunks of yardage and set up the game-winning TD pass to Roddy White.
Analysis: Gonzalez continues to be perhaps the top receiving option on the Falcons. He’s definitely been the most consistent. Gonzo has caught at least four passes in every game since Week 3 of the season and has at least 37 yards receiving in each of those games. He’s scored three touchdowns over that span as well. Playing at home against the Eagles in Week 13, we still like Gonzalez as a No. 1 Fantasy TE.
News: Rams K Josh Brown kicked a 55-yard field goal and two extra points, but missed a 46-yard effort in a Week 12 loss to the Seahawks.
Analysis: Brown isn't a horrible kicker and plays half of his games indoors, but the Rams are so pitiful that Brown isn't worth using in anything but the deepest of Fantasy leagues heading into Week 13 at Chicago.
News: Atlanta WR Eric Weems rushed once for 7 yards and caught two passes for 10 more in the Week 12 win over Tampa Bay. Weems was mainly used on kick and punt returns.
Analysis: Weems hasn’t touched the ball at all offensively for most of the season but does have touchdown grabs in Weeks 7 and 11. Still, we never know when that random touchdown will come. He’s not worth using in Fantasy play for Week 13 against the Eagles.
Manning overcomes slow start Sunday
Updated 11/29/2009
Colts, TQB IND
News: Colts QB Peyton Manning got off to a slow start Sunday at Houston with a pair of interceptions in the first half, but he rebounded well as he usually does. Manning finished the game 27 of 35 passing for 244 yards, three touchdowns and two interceptions. He also added one carry for minus-2 yards as the Colts remained undefeated.
Analysis: Manning continues to play at a high level for all Fantasy owners. Keep him active in all leagues and consider him a No. 1 option against Tennessee in Week 13. Manning passed for 309 yards, three touchdowns and one interception in his first meeting with the Titans this year.
News: Seahawks K Olindo Mare kicked field goals of 29 and 38 yards along with three PATs in a Week 12 win over the Rams.
Analysis: Mare looked like a decent Fantasy option in Week 12 and he produced a solid amount of points, although not a spectacular total. In Week 13, the Seahawks host the 49ers, and Mare should remain just a low-end option in deeper leagues.
News: Atlanta RB Jason Snelling's run at Fantasy viability may have come to an end with the health of Jerious Norwood in Week 12. The Falcons returned both Norwood and Michael Turner and that limited Snelling to only four carries for 8 yards in the game. Turner did re-injure his ankle in the game. Snelling also lost a fumble.
Analysis: Snelling may have rushed for 137 yards and three touchdowns during Weeks 10 and 11 due to Michael Turner and Jerious Norwood being injured but he wasn’t much of a factor with them back in Week 12. Snelling’s day in the sun may be over now, though Turner did injure himself again. Still, because Norwood remains healthy, we can only call Snelling an injury-replacement option for Week 13 against the Eagles’ tough rush defense.
News: Atlanta RB Jerious Norwood returned from a five-game absence due to injury in Week 12 in a win over the Buccaneers. Norwood rushed six times for 22 yards with a long carry of 18 yards. He added two catches for 28 yards and scored on a 22-yard touchdown catch from backup QB Chris Redman in the 2nd quarter. Michael Turner, who returned from an ankle injury in the game, rushed for 33 yards on 12 carries and re-injured that ankle. His status for Week 13 is in doubt now. That could mean Norwood starts in Week 13.
Analysis: Norwood may have looked the best out of the three-headed grouping with Michael Turner and Jason Snelling. Turner got the majority of the carries and started the game but was injured midway through. Norwood scored a big touchdown in his first game back after missing five contests. This situation still seems too cloudy to predict from week to week but it seems clear that Norwood will see more touches in Week 13 at home against Philadelphia. The Eagles have been solid against the run this season. Before the Week 12 game, we called Snelling and Turner No. 2 Fantasy options. This time around, we have to call Norwood at least a No. 2 if he's the starter over an injured Turner. If Turner plays, Norwood goes back to having minor value.
News: Rams WR Donnie Avery caught four passes for 48 yards and a touchdown in a Week 12 loss to the Seahawks.
Analysis: Avery has five touchdowns this season but is far too inconsistent to be worth using outside of deeper Fantasy leagues as a flex option heading into Week 13 at Chicago.
Palmer does little vs. Browns
Updated 11/29/2009
Bengals, TQB CIN
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer was held to just 110 passing yards in Week 12 against Cleveland. He completed 13 of 24 passes, including a 4-yard touchdown pass to TE J.P. Foschi.
Analysis: Palmer was not ineffective in Week 6, but the Bengals simply chose to run the ball down Cleveland's throat for the entire game. They ran for 200-plus yards in a 16-7 game and Palmer was not called upon to do much passing. However, Palmer has thrown just two touchdowns in his last four games as the Bengals become more of a running team. Consider Palmer a good candidate for bigger numbers in Week 13 against Detroit's weak pass defense.
News: Rams WR Danny Amendola led his team in both catches (seven) and yards (55) as St. Louis fell to the Seahawks in Week 12.
Analysis: Amendola is high enough on the depth chart to contribute now and then, but his production is too inconsistent for him to matter in Fantasy. Leave him on waivers for Week 13 at Chicago.
News: Atlanta QB Chris Redman entered the Week 12 game against the Bucs and engineered a comeback victory, 20-17, as starter Matt Ryan left with a toe injury. Redman was 23 of 41 passing for 243 yards and two touchdowns in the game with no interceptions. Redman threw a 22-yard touchdown pass to Jerious Norwood in the 2nd quarter and hit Roddy White from 5 yards out for the game winner in the 4th. The throw to White was extremely clutch with only 23 second remaining on the clock.
Analysis: At this point, not enough is known about Ryan’s injury to determine whether or not he’ll play in Week 13 against the Eagles. Philadelphia has a solid pass defense and we probably wouldn’t start Redman regardless of Ryan’s status for the game.
News: Tampa Bay K Connor Barth finished with five points in the Week 12 loss to the Falcons. Barth was 1 of 2 on field goals and connected from 39 yards out. He went 2 of 2 on PATs.
Analysis: Barth has only kicked for the Bucs the last four games but has been fairly decent. Playing at Carolina in Week 13, we feel Tampa could put some points on the board. That said, there should be better Fantasy options out there to use.
Quinn unimpressive against Bengals
Updated 11/29/2009
Browns, TQB CLE
News: Browns QB Brady Quinn completed just 15 of 34 passes for 100 yards in Week 12 at Cincinnati. He also rushed twice for 10 yards, including a 9-yard touchdown in the third quarter, and caught one pass for 18 yards.
Analysis: Quinn had 304 passing yards at Detroit in a high-scoring game against the Lions, but had been held to just 99 yards the week before against Baltimore. He is not a player worth starting for another tough matchup against the Chargers in Week 13.
News: Tampa Bay TE Jerramy Stevens caught one pass for 6 yards in the Week 12 loss to the Falcons.
Analysis: Stevens might be good for a catch or two in Week 13 at Carolina but we don’t expect much else. He can just as easily go without a touch altogether as he did Week 6 at home against the Panthers. Leave him on waivers or on benches in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Tampa Bay WR Sammie Stroughter caught three passes for 19 yards Week 12 in a loss to the Falcons. His long grab went for 12 yards.
Analysis: Stroughter did not make a grab in Week 11 and wasn’t much of a factor in Week 12, either. He has one touchdown catch on the season, which came back in Week 9. He’s good for a catch or two per game but is not worth using in Week 13 at Carolina. He caught three passes for 65 yards at home against the Panthers in Week 6. Still, Carolina is one of the better pass defenses in football and we don’t see him duplicating that performance.
News: Tampa Bay WR Maurice Stovall caught three passes for 26 yards in the Week 12 loss to the Falcons. His long went for 10 yards.
Analysis: Stovall has really emerged in the passing game of late. Though he didn’t do anything against New Orleans in Week 11, he had seven combined catches in Weeks 9 and 10 for 93 yards and a touchdown. He’s still not consistent enough to warrant using in Week 13 at Carolina but he’s gaining value in the deepest of leagues.
News: Tampa Bay TE Kellen Winslow led the team with seven receptions and finished second on the team with 81 yards in the Week 12 loss to the Falcons. Winslow had a long grab of 21 yards and did not get into the end zone.
Analysis: Winslow is always a threat to score for the Bucs as he’s perhaps their No. 1 receiving option. Winslow has two 100-yard games in his last six contests and three touchdowns over that span but has also put together some clunkers. The Bucs play at Carolina in Week 13. The Panthers have a top pass defense and Winslow only managed three catches against them in Week 6 for 29 yards. He’s always worth using if you he’s your top Fantasy tight end. This is a tough matchup but we still recommend his use.
News: Seahawks WR Nate Burleson had just four catches for 46 yards in a Week 12 win over the Rams.
Analysis: Burleson can be a little inconsistent at times because of Matt Hasselbeck's erratic play, but Burleson is worth using in most leagues as a No. 2 Fantasy WR. In Week 13, Seattle plays at Chicago.
News: Tampa Bay WR Antonio Bryant caught three passes in Week 12 in a loss to Atlanta. Bryant went for 91 yards to lead the team as he hauled in a 42-yard touchdown reception from QB Josh Freeman.
Analysis: Bryant had far and away his best performance of the entire season in the game Week 12. He hooked up with first-year starter Josh Freeman and is beginning to look more comfortable catching passes from the youngster considered the future of the team. If Bryant can continue to establish a better relationship with Freeman and Freeman can continue to improve, Bryant could once again become a viable Fantasy option. He’s still a bit too inconsistent to use as anything other than a No. 3 Fantasy WR option for Week 13 at Carolina. He caught two passes for 37 yards against them in Week 6 at home.
News: Jets WR Braylon Edwards had three catches for 40 yards Sunday against Carolina. Edwards now has four catches for 50 yards in his past two games against the Panthers and Patriots.
Analysis: Edwards is playing like a No. 3 Fantasy WR and should not be used as anything more than that in Week 13 at Buffalo on Thursday night. Edwards had three catches for 40 yards in the first game with the Bills this year.
News: Bucs RB Derrick Ward led the team with 13 carries in the Week 12 game against the Falcons. He went for 29 yards in the game and finished second behind Cadillac Williams. Ward also caught one pass for 2 yards.
Analysis: Ward hasn’t scored since Week 1 and hasn’t gone over 43 yards rushing also since Week 1. He’s not a major part of the passing game, either. He’s not worth using at Carolina in Week 13. He barely touched the ball the last time the Bucs met Carolina.
News: Bills WR Lee Evans was held to two catches for 40 yards in a Week 12 win over Miami.
Analysis: Evans has burned Miami in the past, but finished this season with only four total catches and 100 yards against the Dolphins. In Week 13, the Bills will host the Jets and Evans should be considered a No. 3 Fantasy WR for that matchup.
News: Tampa Bay RB Cadillac Williams rushed 10 times for 30 yards to lead the team in Week 12 in a loss to Atlanta. Williams added one reception from QB Josh Freeman that found the end zone for an 8-yard touchdown reception.
Analysis: Williams has done little on the ground and through the air in recent weeks but was able to score his second receiving touchdown of the season in Week 12. He will score the occasional touchdown but hasn’t gone over 100 yards all year on the ground. In fact, Williams hasn’t gone over 56 yards rushing since Week 6. The Bucs play at Carolina in Week 13. Williams last faced the Panthers in that Week 6 game. He rushed 16 times for 77 yards and a touchdown. The Panthers don’t do much to defend the run and that boosts Williams’ value. We like him as a No. 2 Fantasy RB.
Jets DST dominates Panthers
Updated 11/29/2009
Jets, DST NYJ
News: The Jets DST had a great game Sunday against Carolina in a 17-6 victory. The Jets had four interceptions (two each for Darrelle Revis and Kerry Rhodes) and three sacks. David Clowney had two kickoff returns for 44 yards, Brad Smith had one kickoff return for 38 yards and Jerricho Cotchery had three punt returns for 32 yards.
Analysis: The Jets DST played well against the Panthers and should do well in Week 13 at Buffalo on Thursday night. Consider the Jets DST a No. 1 option against the Bills.
News: Bills WR Terrell Owens made it two straight weeks with a long touchdown catch when he hauled in a 51-yard score in a Week 12 win over Miami. Owens finished with five catches for 96 yards.
Analysis: It took Owens a while to get going in Sunday's game, but he finished with a flourish as the Bills really dented Miami's playoff hopes. In Week 13, Buffalo hosts the Jets, and Owens is likely to be covered by elite DB Darrelle Revis. Still, he's worth using as a No. 2 Fantasy WR for that matchup.
Freeman has best outing of career
Updated 11/29/2009
Buccaneers, TQB TB
News: Tampa Bay QB Josh Freeman threw for 250 yards, his best total of the season thus far, in the Week 12 loss to Atlanta on Sunday. Freeman was 20 of 29 in the game and really looked good at times for the Falcons. He connected for two touchdown passes. Freeman hit Antonio Bryant with a 42-yard TD bomb in the 1st quarter and added an 8-yard TD pass to Cadillac Williams in the 3rd. Freeman added two carries for 14 yards.
Analysis: Freeman now has four starts under his belt and this Sunday against the Falcons was his best yet. He really seemed to grow with Bryant catching the football and may have established a rapport with the receiver. He still hasn’t put up big yardage but as long as he’s limiting the interceptions, he has decent Fantasy value as an injury replacement for Week 12 at Carolina. Though, the Panthers do have one of the better pass defenses in the NFL.
News: Jets TE Dustin Keller had four catches for 68 yards, but he also lost a fumble Sunday against Carolina. The fumble came when Keller was trying to extend the ball into the end zone, but he lost the ball before he was able to score.
Analysis: Keller remains a No. 2 Fantasy TE. He does have a good matchup at Buffalo in Week 13 on Thursday night, but he only had two catches for 19 yards against the Bills earlier this year.
News: Dolphins TE Anthony Fasano led his team with five catches and 74 yards in a Week 12 loss at Buffalo.
Analysis: Fasano is apparently sufficiently recovered from his recent hip injury, and this performance will open some eyes in deeper Fantasy leagues. However, you should only be thinking about using Fasano as a flex option in super-deep formats for Week 13 vs. New England.
News: Jets WR Jerricho Cotchery had one catch for 12 yards Sunday against Carolina. Cotchery came into this game riding a hot streak with nine catches for 152 yards and two touchdowns the past two games against Jacksonville and New England.
Analysis: We expected Cotchery to struggle in this game, and he could have another tough matchup in Week 13 at Buffalo on Thursday night. Consider Cotchery a No. 3 Fantasy WR against the Bills. Cotchery missed the previous game with Buffalo earlier this year with a hamstring injury.
News: Atlanta DL Jonathan Babineaux finished the Week 12 win over the Bucs with three tackles and a sack. He also had a forced fumble in the game.
Analysis: Babineaux now has 33 tackles on the season and five sacks for the Falcons. Still, his value in IDP leagues in just low-end. He's not worth using in Week 13 against Philadelphia.
News: Rams RB Steven Jackson ran 23 times for 89 yards and a touchdown and caught five passes for 27 yards in a Week 12 loss to the Seahawks.
Analysis: Jackson, who was questionable coming into the game with a back problem, admitted after the loss that his injury was bothering him on Sunday, but his stats certainly weren't affected. In Week 13, Jackson will play at Chicago and remains a No. 1 Fantasy RB for that matchup.
News: Tampa Bay DL Stylez White picked up 2.5 more sacks in Week 12 in a loss to the Falcons. White finished with five tackles in the game.
Analysis: White now has 31 tackles in 10 games and 5.5 sacks to go with it. White has all his sacks since Week 6 of the season. Still, he doesn't make enough tackles and only has low-end Fantasy value in IDP leagues. He's not worth using Week 13 at Carolina.
News: Jets RB Thomas Jones played well Sunday against the Panthers. He had 25 carries for 75 yards and a touchdown and also caught three passes for 11 yards.
Analysis: Jones continues to have an outstanding season, and he should play well against Buffalo in Week 13 on Thursday night. Jone had 210 rushing yards and a touchdown earlier this season against the Bills, so consider Jones a No. 1 Fantasy option in all leagues.
News: Tampa Bay LB Quincy Black finished with 10 tackles and a sack in the Week 12 loss to Atlanta.
Analysis: Black now has 59 tackles for the season and two sacks with a pick. He really isn't worth worrying about in IDP leagues for Week 13 at Carolina.
News: Seahawks RB Justin Forsett ran 22 times for 130 yards and two touchdowns in a Week 12 win over the Rams.
Analysis: Like many have done before him, Forsett found plenty of holes in the Rams defense on Sunday and rewarded his owners who took a shot with him in deeper formats. In Week 13 vs. San Francisco, Forsett could go back to his reserve role behind Julius Jones, if he's healthy. Follow the situation throughout the week, and if Forsett does get another start he will likely be worth using as a No. 2 Fantasy RB. If Jones is back, Forsett will be a No. 3 option at best.
News: Tampa Bay LB Barrett Ruud recorded 11 tackles and a forced fumble in the Week 12 loss to Atlanta.
Analysis: Ruud now has 97 tackles on the season to go with one interception. Ruud is a solid option in IDP formats and should be active across the board for Week 13 at Carolina.
News: Jets backup QB Kellen Clemens attempted one pass Sunday against Carolina when starter Mark Sanchez left the game with an apparent leg injury. He did not complete the pass.
Analysis: Clemens has no Fantasy value as long as Sanchez is healthy and starting. Ignore Clemens in all leagues in Week 13 against Tampa Bay.
Philly beats Washington Week 12
Updated 11/29/2009
Eagles, DST PHI
News: Philadelphia scored the final 11 points on Sunday at home against the Redskins to come from behind and win the game, 27-24, in Week 12. The Eagles DST limited the Redskins to 303 yards of offense and forced two turnovers, both coming on Jason Campbell interceptions in the first half. The Eagles DST sacked Campbell just once in the game, however.
Analysis: The Eagles DST didn't do all that much to make Fantasy owners happy. They had the turnovers but didn't really stop one of the league's worst offenses. Philly plays at Atlanta in Week 13 and the Falcons could be without RB Michael Turner and QB Matt Ryan for that game. If that is the case, Philly should be a solid Fantasy play in any DST format.
Sanchez has another bad outing
Updated 11/29/2009
Jets, TQB NYJ
News: Jets QB Mark Sanchez, who briefly left Sunday's game against Carolina with a left knee injury, was 13 of 17 passing for 154 yards and an interception. He also had three carries for 27 yards. After the game, Sanchez said he was totally fine. "I guess it was just an awkward fall and he kind of landed on my leg," he said. "They checked out all the ligaments and stuff and it looks good."
Analysis: Sanchez continues to have the usual struggles that most rookie quarterbacks go through. He will remain the starter in Week 13 at Buffalo, but consider Sanchez a low-end No. 2 Fantasy QB.
Redskins DST falls flat Week 12
Updated 11/29/2009
Redskins, DST WAS
News: The Washington Redskins did it again on Sunday of Week 12 at Philadelphia. They gave away another near win. This time Washington led almost all game before allowing the Eagles to score the final 11 points in the 4th quarter to win 27-24. The Redskins DST gave up 381 yards to Philadelphia and gave up a two-point conversion on the game's final score in the 4th. The Redskins DST managed to sack Donovan McNabb just twice in the game and picked him off once. There were no other turnovers forced.
Analysis: Washington's DST once again did literally nothing opportune to help the Redskins win the game. The Redskins haven't put together a solid Fantasy DST game in a while now and really only have low-end Fantasy value for Week 13 against the Saints.
News: Bills RB Marshawn Lynch ran three times for 6 yards and caught one 9-yard pass in a Week 12 win over the Dolphins.
Analysis: Lynch looked to have shaken off his shoulder injury from last week, but we doubt he was 100 percent for Sunday's game, which is why his carries were limited. Hopefully Lynch gets a little healthier heading into Week 13 vs. the Jets and can be worth a shot as a No. 3 Fantasy RB for that matchup.
Analysis: The Panthers have several standout defensive players, and they should all play well in Week 13 against Tampa Bay. Use your regular starters in IDP formats.
News: Washington K Shaun Suisham went 1 for 1 on field goals as he connected from 25 yards out in the Week 12 loss at Philadelphia. He was 3 for 3 on PATs and finished with six points in the loss.
Analysis: The Redskins play one of the better teams in the NFL in Week 13 at home against the Saints. Since Suisham hasn’t scored in double figures all year, we don’t see it happening in Week 13. He’s not worth using in Fantasy play.
News: Bills RB Fred Jackson ran 15 times for 73 yards and two touchdowns in a Week 12 win vs. Miami. He also caught five passes for 43 yards.
Analysis: Jackson got the start over Marshawn Lynch on Sunday and made the most of his extra work. However, once Lynch gets a little healthier, Jackson's Fantasy value might take a bit of a hit because there is no guarantee how many carries he'll get. Against the Jets in Week 13, consider Jackson a high-end No. 3 Fantasy option.
News: Washington WR Antwaan Randle El caught just two passes for 19 yards in the Week 12 loss at Philadelphia.
Analysis: Randle El is always good for at least three catches and around 20-50 yards per game. That said, he has zero touchdowns and doesn’t have more than 98 receiving yards in any game all season and that game came back in Week 1. He hasn’t gone over 45 yards since. He’s not worth using in Week 13 against the Saints.
News: The Panthers had four players who dressed but failed to record an offensive stat Sunday at the Jets with kicker Rhys Lloyd, WR Charly Martin, RB Tyrell Sutton and backup QB Matt Moore.
Analysis: None of these players are worth using in any Fantasy leagues in Week 13 against Tampa Bay. Ignore them in all formats.
News: Washington TE Fred Davis caught four passes for 43 yards and scored on a touchdown pass from Jason Campbell from 10 yards out in the 3rd quarter in the Week 12 loss at Philadelphia. Davis had done little in the game until the touchdown reception. His long grab went for 29 yards in the loss.
Analysis: Davis has done little to make Fantasy owners happy since the game that Chris Cooley was injured when he caught eight passes for 78 yards and a score Week 7 against these same Eagles. Davis was back in the end zone this week against Philly and it seems he’s not a solid option unless the ‘Skins are playing their conference rivals. Washington plays at home against New Orleans in Week 13. Davis should still see a few grabs in that game for decent yardage but a touchdown is unlikely and we can only call him a No. 2 Fantasy option despite the score in Week 12.
News: Washington WR Malcolm Kelly caught two passes but led the Redskins in receiving with 50 yards in Week 12 against the Eagles. His long went for 27 yards in the loss.
Analysis: Kelly has made some long receptions in recent weeks but still has yet to find the end zone. He hasn’t made more than two receptions in any game since Week 2 against St. Louis. We don’t recommend his Fantasy use in Week 13 against the Saints.
News: Washington WR Santana Moss caught four passes for 28 yards and hooked up with Jason Campbell for a 4-yard TD reception in the 2nd quarter against the Eagles in Week 12. For Moss, the touchdown was his first since Week 4 of the season.
Analysis: Moss found the end zone for the first time since doing it in back-to-back weeks in Weeks 3 and 4. Moss still didn’t contribute big yardage in the Week 12 game against the Eagles and hasn’t gone for over 74 yards since Week 3 against Detroit when he had 10 grabs for 178 yards and a score. Moss and the Redskins passing game continues to struggle and we can only call him a No. 3 Fantasy WR, at best, for Week 13 against New Orleans.
News: Dolphins RB Ricky Williams ran 27 times for 115 yards and a touchdown in a Week 12 loss at Buffalo. Williams, who now has three straight 100-yard games, also threw an interception in the end zone when he tried to be a QB out of the Wildcat.
Analysis: Williams is clearly ready to handle a full-time load with Miami and is back to being a No. 1 Fantasy RB once more. The Dolphins host the Patriots in Week 13.
News: Washington WR Devin Thomas caught four passes for 46 yards on Sunday of Week 12 as the team lost at Philadelphia. His long was 35 yards.
Analysis: You can definitely see the beginning of Thomas’ Fantasy value now as he’s improved his stats for three straight weeks. Thomas made two grabs for 37 yards Week 10, caught three for 33 in Week 11 and was even better against the Eagles Sunday. The Redskins play at home against the Saints in Week 13 and New Orleans isn’t as good as Philly against the pass. That said, Thomas still hasn’t done anything consistently well and we can only label him a injury replacement, at best, for Week 13.
News: Redskins RB Mike Sellers caught one pass for 12 yards in Week 12 as the Redskins lost at Philly.
Analysis: Sellers had that ridiculous touchdown catch from punter Hunter Smith in Week 10 against Denver but has otherwise done nothing this season. He has no Fantasy value for Week 13 against the Saints.
News: Titans RB LenDale White, who came into the game with no reported injuries, is inactive for Week 12 against the Cardinals. He has a total of nine carries over his last three games.
Analysis: White has become less of a factor with Chris Johnson breaking out as one of the elite running backs in football, and now he's apparently a non-factor. Since the Titans no longer consider him an integral part of the offense, he's not worth owning in Fantasy except as a handcuff to Johnson. The Titans visit the Colts in Week 13.
News: Redskins RB Marcus Mason rushed three times for 10 yards in the Week 12 loss at Philly. Mason added one catch for 11 yards.
Analysis: Mason is still the third-string RB for the Redskins even with Clinton Portis and Ladell Betts likely done for the year. He’s not worth using in Fantasy play for Week 13 against the Saints.
News: Rams QB Kyle Boller completed 28 of 46 passes for 282 yards with one touchdown and two interceptions in a Week 12 loss to the Seahawks. Boller also ran three times for 26 yards.
Analysis: Boller has got the starting job back in St. Louis for now, and didn't do horribly on Sunday. Still, he's way too risky to use in Fantasy play Week 13 at Chicago.
News: Redskins RB Quinton Ganther rushed five times for 32 yards in a Week 12 loss at Philadelphia. Ganther added one catch but went for minus-4 yards.
Analysis: Ganther has only been active for four games this season and has done pretty much zip. We do not recommend his Fantasy use for Week 13 against the Saints. He will continue to see more carries than normal with Clinton Portis and Ladell Betts out but he still isn’t worth using in Fantasy.
News: Washington RB Rock Cartwright rushed 15 times for 38 yards in the Week 12 loss at Philadelphia. He added three grabs for 26 yards.
Analysis: Cartwright made his fourth career start in Week 12 against the Eagles as he continues to be the man with Clinton Portis and Ladell Betts out. That will be the same situation in Week 13 against the Saints. New Orleans can be run on but we still only like Cartwright as a No. 2 Fantasy option.
News: Philadelphia K David Akers had a fantastic game on Sunday of Week 12 against the Washington Redskins. Akers nailed four field goals with a long of 41 yards. He also hit the game-winning field goal with 1:48 left from 32 yards out. He was 1 of 1 on PATs and finished with 13 points in the game.
Analysis: Akers has notched double-digit performances in four of his last five games and has been over seven points in all but one game this season. He is clearly a must-start Fantasy kicker for any format in Week 13 at Atlanta.
News: Carolina WR Steve Smith was limited Sunday at the Jets to two catches for 2 yards. Smith was matched with Jets standout CB Darrelle Revis for most of the day, which was the reason for his poor output. He was also dealing with a rib injury prior to the game.
Analysis: Smith did have a touchdown called back after a review, which was the right call, but we expected Smith to struggle in this matchup against Revis. His outlook is much better in Week 13 against Tampa Bay. He was held to one catch for 4 yards in Week 6 against the Bucs, but he should do better in the rematch.
Hasselbeck does whole lot of nothing
Updated 11/29/2009
Seahawks, TQB SEA
News: Seahawks QB Matt Hasselbeck completed 14 of 25 passes for 102 yards with no touchdowns or interceptions in a Week 12 win over the Rams.
Analysis: Hasselbeck didn't need to do a whole lot on Sunday as Justin Forsett ran all over the Rams, and the QBs's Fantasy owners won't be happy after this performance. Hasselbeck now has two touchdowns and four picks in his last four games and will only be worth using as a high-end No. 2 Fantasy QB against the 49ers in Week 13.
News: Philadelphia WR Jeremy Maclin caught five passes for 63 yards in a Week 12 win over Washington. His long grab went for 35 yards and he did not score in the game.
Analysis: Maclin had been alternating games with touchdowns which would have suggested he scored in Week 12. Still, he's been guaranteed a few catches and at least 40 yards per game of late and that gives him some lower-end Fantasy value for Week 13 at Atlanta. There is the possibility that DeSean Jackson will miss that game with a concussion. If that happens, Maclin's value would definitely rise.
News: Panthers RB Brad Hoover had one catch for 4 yards Sunday at the Jets.
Analysis: Hoover has minimal Fantasy value in all leagues. Ignore him in Week 13 against Tampa Bay.
Fitzpatrick leads Bills to Week 12 win
Updated 11/29/2009
Bills, TQB BUF
News: Bills QB Ryan Fitzpatrick completed 17 of 26 passes for 246 yards with one touchdown and one interception, and ran for 50 yards and a touchdown in a Week 12 win over Miami.
Analysis: Fitzpatrick wasn't spectacular on Sunday, but he did enough to lead the Bills to a victory that really dented Miami's playoff hopes. Buffalo host the Jets in Week 13 and Fitzpatrick remains just an emergency Fantasy option in super-deep leagues.
News: Philadelphia WR Jason Avant led the Eagles in receiving on Sunday of Week 12 in a win over the Redskins. Avant came on when DeSean Jackson suffered an injury and did most of his damage late for five catches for 94 yards. He did not score.
Analysis: Avant has really come on of late for the Eagles and has at least four catches in his last three games. He is averaging 92 receiving yards per game in those contests and has scored a touchdown among them. With Jackson possibly having to miss the Week 13 game at Atlanta with a concussion, Avant could really step up in Week 13. Treat Avant as a low-end No. 2 Fantasy option.
News: Panthers TE Dante Rosario had four catches for 62 yards Sunday at the Jets. Rosario led the Jets in catches and receiving yards.
Analysis: Rosario is a low-end Fantasy option. Don't consider using him in Week 13 against Tampa Bay.
Henne throws three picks in loss
Updated 11/29/2009
Dolphins, TQB MIA
News: Dolphins QB Chad Henne completed 17 of 31 passes for 175 yards with one touchdown and three interceptions in a Week 12 loss at Buffalo.
Analysis: This was clearly Henne's worst outing since he took over the starting job in Miami, but luckily not too many Fantasy owners felt the pain as he was only used in two percent of leagues. Henne is still learning the ropes in the NFL and should not be used in any format heading into Week 13 vs. New England. He's worth stashing in some keeper leagues, however.
News: Philadelphia RB Eldra Buckley rushed twice for 1 yard in the Week 12 win over Washington. He could get into the end zone in the 4th quarter from the 1 yard line on his first try but went again and finally broke through. It was his first touchdown of the season.
Analysis: Buckley was given the goal-line carry with LeSean McCoy and Leonard Weaver both healthy and having fine days on the ground. We don't expect that to be a trend that continues, however. He's not worth owning or using in Week 13 at Atlanta.
News: Panthers RB Jonathan Stewart was limited to nine carries for 35 yards Sunday at the Jets. Stewart, who has been dealing with an injured Achilles' tendon, now has just 78 yards in his past two games against the Jets and Dolphins.
Analysis: Stewart should play better in Week 13 against Tampa Bay. He had 110 yards and a touchdown earlier this season against the Bucs, so consider Stewart a sleeper in the rematch.
News: Philadelphia RB Leonard Weaver rushed six times for 44 yards during a Week 12 win over the Redskins. Weaver had a long carry of 18 yards in the game. He also caught one pass for 4 yards.
Analysis: Weaver rushed eight times for 75 yards and a touchdown Week 8 against the Giants. He has the ability to break a long run every now and again but really isn't much of a Fantasy option for Week 13 at Atlanta.
News: Philadelphia RB LeSean McCoy rushed 17 times for 76 yards and caught four passes for 25 more yards during the Week 12 win over Washington on Sunday. McCoy did not score in the game.
Analysis: The Eagles' starter with Brian Westbrook out should once again be the man in Week 13 at Atlanta. The Falcons are not very good against the run. McCoy rushed for 99 yards with a score in Week 11 against the Bears and has been solid in the passing game as well for Donovan McNabb. McCoy definitely remains a quality starting option for Week 13 at Atlanta.
News: Philadelphia DB Asante Samuel picked off two Jason Campbell passes on Sunday of Week 12 against the Redskins. Samuel finished with no tackles but the two picks made up for that.
Analysis: Samuel is a No. 3 DB in IDP leagues as he now has seven picks on the year for the Eagles. He's worth using in Week 13 at Atlanta.
News: Carolina RB DeAngelo Williams had a rough day Sunday at the Jets. He was 1 of 1 passing for minus-3 yards, had 16 carries for 40 yards and caught four passes for 10 yards. Williams also briefly left the game with what appeared to be sprained left ankle, but he returned and finished the game.
Analysis: Williams should rebound in Week 13 against Tampa Bay. Consider Williams a No. 1 Fantasy RB against the Bucs, and he had 152 rushing yards and two touchdowns against Tampa Bay in Week 6 this season.
News: Washington LB London Fletcher recorded 12 stops on Sunday against the Eagles in a defeat. Fletcher added a sack of Donovan McNabb in the loss.
Analysis: Fletcher continues to be a tackling machine with 102 on the season to go with two sacks and an interception. He's always worth starting in Fantasy IDP play. The Redskins play New Orleans in Week 13.
Delhomme throws four interceptions
Updated 11/29/2009
Panthers, TQB CAR
News: Carolina QB Jake Delhomme was back to his turnover ways Sunday at the Jets. Delhomme was 14 of 34 passing for 130 yards, no touchdowns and four interceptions. He now has eight touchdowns and 18 interceptions on the season.
Analysis: Delhomme is capable of miserable games like this, which is why he is not a good Fantasy option. Ignore Delhomme in all Fantasy leagues in Week 13 against Tampa Bay.
Campbell's 3 TDs doesn't help 'Skins win
Updated 11/29/2009
Redskins, TQB WAS
News: Washington QB Jason Campbell could not leave a two-minute drill on the final drive in Week 12 at Philadelphia and the Redskins lost the game after leading for most of the day. Campbell left the game writhing in the ground in pain but likely was more upset than injured as his final pass was short of its intended receiver. He finished 22 of 37 for 231 yards and two touchdowns but threw two costly interceptions. He did run for a third touchdown in the game in the 1st quarter from 1 yard out.
Analysis: Campbell looked better at times in Week 12 against the Eagles. He also looked ridiculously bad at times with the two first-half interceptions, especially the second that set up Philly taking the halftime lead. Campbell had his first multi-touchdown game since Week 7 and also scored his first rushing touchdown of the year. This was definitely one of his best games but it also showed his downside as well. We still don’t like Campbell as a starting Fantasy quarterback but as an injury-replacement he could be worthwhile in Week 13 against the Saints, if he is healthy.
News: Philadelphia QB Michael Vick rushed twice for four yards and threw one pass that was incomplete in the Week 12 win over Washington.
Analysis: Vick continues to get limited chances for the Eagles as the No. 2 QB behind Donovan McNabb. He has minimal Fantasy value except in long-term keeper leagues. Ignore Vick in Week 13 at Atlanta, unless you think the Eagles might give him something special against his former team. Only take notice in the deepest of Fantasy leagues if you think that is a possibility.
Analysis: Winfield has some value in Fantasy IDP leagues, but he's out for a fifth straight game with a foot injury. None of these other players matters in Fantasy. Leave them on waivers.
McNabb finds Jackson for touchdown
Updated 11/29/2009
Eagles, TQB PHI
News: Philadelphia QB Donovan McNabb went 21 of 35 for 260 yards during a Week 12 come-from-behind victory over the Washington Redskins. McNabb threw one touchdown pass in the 1st quarter as he hit DeSean Jackson from 35 yards out. McNabb also threw an interception in the game and rushed for minus-2 yards on two carries.
Analysis: McNabb continues to be a solid Fantasy play every single week. He's thrown for at least 227 yards in five straight games and has nine touchdowns and five interceptions over that span. He hasn't been dominant but he's been good and should remain a viable option for Week 13 at Atlanta.
Analysis: Clements is a decent low-end starting LB in deeper IDP leagues when healthy and Bruce has some low-end appeal at the WR position. The rest of these players have little to no Fantasy value.
News: Niners WR Isaac Bruce has been listed as inactive for the team's Week 12 game against Jacksonville with an ankle injury. Bruce had been listed as doubtful for the contest.
Analysis: Bruce's days as a viable Fantasy option appear to be over for now and his advanced age leaves him with little upside. The Niners take on Seattle on the road in Week 13.
Warner inactive Week 12 at Titans
Updated 11/29/2009
Cardinals, TQB ARI
News: Cardinals QB Kurt Warner, who left last week's game with concussion-like symptoms but managed to practice in full this week, is inactive for Week 12 at Tennessee. According to earlier reports, he woke up this morning with a stiff neck. Matt Leinart will start in Warner's place, but the Cardinals will probably run a more conservative offense with him.
Analysis: Hopefully, you took a conservative approach and sat Warner earlier in the day, but if you still need a replacement, you could do worse than Leinart. Warner was on his best stretch of the season, throwing nine touchdown passes and zero interceptions over his last three games. He came close to playing this week, so he'll likely return Week 13 against the Vikings. He'll be a No. 1 QB in Fantasy even with the tough matchup.
News: Seahawks RB Julius Jones (chest) will not play in Week 12 at St. Louis as he was listed among the inactives. Justin Forsett will start in his place.
Analysis: Be sure to bench Jones in all formats and consider Forsett a decent No. 3 Fantasy RB or flex option for this matchup.
