Injuries and Pick ups

Injury Impacts - Not a great deal of injury, but still some things to talk about.

Ben Rothlisberger - Rothlisberger sat it out this week and the Steelers lost. Watch this close this week. With the new focus on concussions in the league, I would put him at 50/50 to start.

Kurt Warner - See above, same story for a different person. 50/50 for Warner as well.

Matt Ryan - He is listed at out for this coming weekend for Atlanta. Chris Redmon might make a decent replacement.

Michael Turner - He reinjured his ankle and his status is unclear for next week. Jason Snelling is not doing great, and Jerious Norwood isn't either. No matter the case, if Turner is out, none of the Falcon runners is more than a marginal #2 RB.

Cedric Benson - Looks like he will be back this week, but keep your eyes on it, just in case. All other Bengal backs are not with playing if he is back.

DeSean Jackson - Suffered a concussion, I would think him out this coming week, just because of the league crack down

Tim Hightower - He has a sprained thumb, but is not ruled out yet, but the match up against the Vikings is not good for him or Beanie Wells.

Jake Delhomme - Suffered a broken finger and probably won't play this coming week. Can you even name his back up in Carolina? Didn't think so, and he is not worth a start.

What's Up? Guys who you might want on your roster.

Kenny Britt - I had Britt listed here last week and he is still here. If he is available in your league and you need help, snap him up... good raport with Vince Young and great potential.

Vince Young - Speaking of players, if you need a back up or a replacement, consider Young. He has been playing very well of late. (Never thought I would be saying that).

Jerious Norwood - If Turner is out, Norwood could makes some sense.

Larry Johnson - This only makes sense if Benson is out another game.

Pierre Garcon - He is playing steady ball right now, and is a reasonable #3 or flex option.

Robert Meachem - I am sitting here watching the Patriots v Saints and Meachem just caught another TD. That makes 5 in the last few weeks.

Today's Hottie: Jodie Marie

Sunday Observations

Tampa v Atlanta
Both Matt Ryan and Michael Turner went down with injuries, not sure how serious either are, but they will need to be watched. Kudos to Chris Redman for replacing Ryan and posted a solid 243 and 2 TDs. Antonio Bryant posted his best game of the year and with Josh Freeman learning on the job, if you need WR help, Bryant might be a solid pick up.

Miami v Buffalo
Another fine effort for Ricky Williams with 115 and a score. Terrell Owens is back is seems and could help a fantasy owner to a championship if his chemistry with Ryan Fitzpatrick continues. Is there any doubt Fred Jackson is the better back in Buffalo (72 yards on 15 carries and 2 TDs)? Where did Lee Evans go this year?

Washington v Philladelphia
I like LeSean McCoy's game and production (101 combined and a TD). DeSean Jackson went out with a concussion, so keep an eye on that development and an uptick for Maclin and Avant. Brent Celek has been pedestrian in the past few weeks.

Seattle v St. Louis
Steven Jackson continues to roll with 100+ combined and a score. Kyle Boller was solid with almost 300 yards and a score, the only black mark being 2 INTs. Matt Hasselbeck has been stinking it up from a fantasy perspective. Could it be he likes Justin Forsett behind him? And what's not to like about 130 yards and 2 TDs on the ground? TJ Housh and John Carlson posted identical, sorry 2 receptions, 14 yard days.

Carolina v New York Jets
You expect Mark Sanchez to post a poor fantasy day lately, but Delhomme was back to his "Culter" ways, throwing 4 INTs. All in all the games was nothing from a fantasy perspective, although Thomas Jones did post 75 yards and a TD, which is ok.

Cleveland v Cincinnati
I would have expected the Bengals to score better than the 17 points the put up, which affected the fantasy scoring from the game. The Browns were customarily pathetic. And other than a decent 87 yards for Bernard Scott, Larry Johnson has the best day, with 107 yards on the ground. LJ could be a hot pick up this week.

Indianapolis v Houston
Both Manning and Schaub put up good games, but not outstanding, marred by a combined 4 INTs. And Kevin Walter is starting to show what we were expecting a few weeks ago when Owen Daniel went down. Dallas Clark keeping rolling with a solid game (9-63-1 TD), and Pierre Garcon was solid with matching 5-63-1 TD.

Kansas City v San Diego
Phillip Rivers is nearing the elite fantasy QB heights (317-2 TDs). Jamaal Charles has shown to be a good replacement for LJ with 140 combined and a TD. And Chris Chambers continues his solid play after being cast off by the Charges with 7-70-1 TD. Antonio Gates was strong with 7-118-2 TDs, while LaDainian Tomlinson remains a solid play only because of his recent TD surge, posting 2 more today on limted yards and carries.

Jacksonville v San Francisco
Alex Smith continues his steady play and is a decent back up option going into the stretch run. Frank Gore has been puzzling and inconsistent and would have been a poor play today except for a receiving TD. Vernon Davis continues his excellent play with 6-69-1 TD. MJD posted 110 combined, but sans a TD.

Chicago v Minnesota
What is going on with Brett Favre? A ridiculous 392 and 2 TDs. AP was solid with 100+ combined and a score. Percy Harvin was sweet with 45 rushing yards and his 6-101-1 TD, while Sidney Rice continues his march up the receiver charts with 6-89. And Vianthe Shiancoe remains a solid TE play. Now for the Bears. Culter's erratic play is costing those counting on him and honestly, there are better options out there, even for a back up. And I am now proclaiming Matt Forte a bust, with another sub par performance.

Arizona v Tennessee
Dare I say it, but not only is Vince Young playing better, but he is achieving fantasy relevance with 387 and a score. yes, that's right... 387. Chris Johnson is absolutely ridiculous, posting 154 and a score on the ground plus 3-32 receiving. I am also putting Kenny Britt on my pick up list with his 7-128-1 TD performance. The late scratch of Kurt Warner hurt the entire Cards offense. Matt Leinart seems like a bust, doesn't he?

Pittsburgh v Baltimore
Dennis Dixon had an ok game in replacing Big Ben, but it hurt the numbers. Only Santonio Holmes posted anything worth mentioning (6-74-1 TD). Mendenhall posted 100+ combined. Ray Rice broke 150 combined without a score. and Mark Clayton (yeah, Mark Clayton) had 7-129, plus Derek Mason posted 7-62-1 TD. Hope Big Ben is back next week.
Have to mention, I am REALLY looking forward to the Patriots v Saints game tomorrow evening.

Today's Hottie: Alex Zerega or MySpace

Quick Injury Updates

Just a few quick but important injury updates as I have them from today.

Ben Rothlisberger - Reports out of Pittsburgh are that Big Ben will be sitting on the side lines. This bears watching, who knows what tomorrow will bring, but have your back up plan in place.

Kurt Warner - Nothing definative on Warner and his concussion, but again, for a top flight fantasy QB, this bears watching as he is listed as questionable still, again have your back up ready and monitor the reports on Sunday

Julius Jones - This is more important for those who snapped up Justin Forsette, who is a good start if he plays. More monitoriing.

Adrian Peterson - Besides a nagging ankle, Peterson was out of practice due to an illness and is questionable, keep an eye open and if he is out and you have Chester Taylor, get him warmed and and expect a big day if he starts.

Steve Smith - Word from Carolina is Smith is nursing sore ribs, and with his recent resurgence, watch on Sunday for the inactive report

Rock Cartwright - He could be a good spot starter for the Redskins if you need help.

It is Sarah Saturday again!
Today's Hottie: Sarah Stage

Hit the field or Take some Pine?

I am not a fan of the Thursday night games, especially the Thanksgiving Day gamut, with three games already in the books. Doesn't give us pundits much time to sum up the week past and then turn around for the Thursday games, plus get on to Sunday. Jamie Eisenberg put out his Start 'Em and Sit 'Em for this week on the 25th. I generally like what he writes, so here is my spin on what is left for Sunday. Read his article here

Quarterbacks

Start 'Em:
Brett Favre - The Chicago D is not what is once was... too many injuries... not enough talent, Favre should have a good game here.
Carson Palmer - If Cleveland can give up 300+ and FIVE TDs to a rookie like Stafford, Palmer should do pretty well too.
Ben Rothlisberger - This only works if Big Ben starts, which it looks like he will. Surprisingly, except for a few weeks ago, the Ravens D has not been stellar and Rothlisberger could have a good game.
Matt Hasselbeck - The match up with St. Louis is favorable for Hasselbeck, but he continues to disappoint, I wouldn't call him a must start.
Matt Ryan - Ryan bounced back with a good game last week and Tampa should allow him to continue the trend

Sit 'Em
Joe Flacco - Without Polamalu, the Steeler D is missing something, but is still formidable.
Jay Cutler - The only way Culter does well is in garbage time when they are behind
David Garrard - Garrard is never a starter in my mind.

Running Backs

Start 'Em
Joseph Addai - Addai continues to have a steady fantasy season, scoring TDs and yardage just enough to keep him on your starting team, and should again
LeSean McCoy - McCoy is a good fill in for Westbrook, I would start him the rest of the year
Bernard Scott - Benson should be on the bench again so Scott should start again Cleveland

Sit 'Em
Jamaal Charles - The Chargers have been playing better and should be tough on the entire KC offense
Jamal Lewis - Yup sit him.

Wide Receivers

Start 'Em
Santono Holmes - Again, Hines Ward is the start here, Holmes has been a big disappointment this season
Terrell Owens - I would start him too.
Nate Burleson - I am not a Burleson fan, not sure I would start him, perhaps a passable game, but not an outstanding
one.
Michael Crabtree - If San Fran goes to the spread offense more, Crabtree will excel

Sit 'Em
Santana Moss - Definately agree, sit him
Jerricho Cotchery - Until Sanchez starts to play a bit steadier, I wouldn't count on any Jet receivers
Donnie Avery - I might start him in this match up

Tight Ends

Start 'Em
Greg Olsen - The Vikings give up points to TEs, but that is what they said last week for John Carlson and he got blanked
Kellen Winslow - Winslow is up and down, spectacular and horrible... could this be a spectacular week?
Visanthe Shiancoe - Favre seems comfortable with Shiancoe, but take away three big scoring weeks and Shiancoe is a mediocre TE... he might do ok this week, but I would temper expectations

Sit 'Em
Brent Celek - Celek is a must start each week
Jeremy Shockey - This is a good sit week for Shockey

Today's Hottie: Natalia Ramirez

Merry Turkey Day

Hello All!

I had to take Thanksgiving off. So, I ate turkey, watched football and napped. A perfect holiday! I hope everyone else had a great day as well! Posting again later this evening as normal!

Hate / Love

Matthew Berry from ESPN writes a weekly column he calls his Love Hate list. He runs through players he loves for the weekend's matchup and those he hates. And well Berry is an "expert" and gets paid big jack to express his opinions, I often disagree. So, here is my spin in the Talented Mr Roto's thoughts, which can be found here

Berry "Loves"

JerMichael Finley - I have to agree, he and Rodgers are on the same page

Calvin Johnson - I think the Lions will find it harder going against Green Bay, even with their defensive losses.

Marion Barber - The Raider defense is much better than people give them credit for, plus the continuous time share. Did anyone else hear Jerry Jones would like to see more from Felix Jones?

Brandon Jacobs and Ahmad Bradshaw - Denver's defense has been horrible against the run, and well, against the pass too. Even with the time share, both could do ok.

Jason Snelling - After a successful debut, he won't sneak up on anyone, I would expect an ok day against Tampa Josh Freeman - There has to be a better option for you than Freeman... Kyle Boller, Alex Smith...

Kellen Winslow - He might do ok, but he is so inconsistent week to week... if you want to gamble, go ahead

Ricky Williams - Buffalo is not stout against the run, and Williams should do well

Terrell Owens - I read some good analysis on TO, new offensive coordinator, more TO... makes sense

Fred Jackson - With Lynch hobbled, more touches for Jackson is a good thing

LeSean McCoy - Replacing Westbrook, if he gets enough touches, he should do well

Justin Forsette - I am not sure if Jones is back or not, but a time share would not help either back. I like Forsette if Jones doesn't play

Chris Chambers - Chambers has been great since joining the Chiefs, lots left in his tank, and a payback game could produce well

Jamaal Charles - His TD return helped, but San Diego's defense will slow him down

Greg Olsen - Against Minnesota, I don't like Olsen in this one.

Berrys "Hates"

Tony Romo - The Raiders have been tough on the passing game, and the Cowboys are definately off right now, 14 points in the past two games

Jason Witten - So goes Romo, so goes Witten

Eli Manning - Manning will do ok, but if the Giants can get their pathetic running game going, it will be less, if they continue struggling on the ground, then Eli will do better

Steve Smith - Smith has been consistent in the last few weeks, not posting monster games, but nice ones and he will again

Brent Celek - I would start Celek every week these days

Beanie Wells - If he can get involved in the running game, he could do well, I would expect him to do ok though

Jay Culter - Yeah, I would not expect great things from Culter this week in Minnesota

Today's Hottie: Brandy SkyAlso, check out www.brandysky.net coming soon!

The Waiver Wire

I don't have a ton of time to write tonight. But I did read Roger Rotter's Waiver Wire top 10 and thought you might like to see it. Here is the article. Below are his top ten and some of my thoughts

10) Kahill Bell - Matt Forte's back up. Yeah, who knew? But with a couple week defenses coming up soon, he might be worth a spot if you have room. Just an interesting thought. I did notice that Forte just seems to be running right up the backs of his line... little cutting or anything. No holes, yeah, I don't see him helping.

9) Brandon Gibson - This one depends on his chemistry with Kyle Boller with Bulger going down, hold onto this thought a week and see what happens

8) Miami D - A one week wonder if you need help. Against Buffalo, I might take grandma and the bridge club.

7) JerMichael Finley - I am all over this one. I have had Finley on my roster since the draft.

6) Matthew Stafford - Not so fast. Stafford is injured and doesn't play too many defenses as bad as Cleveland, who I would start my local peewee team against and expect decent fantasy points.

5) Alex Smith - If San Fran goes with the spread offense that worked in the 2nd half at Green Bay, this might make sense, but what I heard was Smith didn't like it (did they say this guy was smart before the 2005 draft?)

4) Rock Cartwright - yeah, I would do this if I needed help.

3) Fred Jackson - I doubt he is on the wire, but if he is there, grab him... Lynch is nicked up.

2) Bernard Scott - He is gone in most leagues, but if not, pick him up until Benson is back.

1) Justin Forsett - Again, he is gone probably, but pick him up. I don't know how long Julius Jones is out, but he might not get his job anyhow.

Later all. Out!

Today's Hottie: CJ Caprio
Check out CJCaprio.com - coming soon!

R & R - Ramblings and Rantings

Injury Impacts - Not a great deal of injury, but still some things to talk about.

Ben Rothlisberger - Sitting here watching the Monday night game. ESPN just reported, according to Chris Berman, that Big Ben has told the media he will be playing on Sunday, despite his concussion against the Cheifs. Make sure to keep an eye on it anyhow... besides, with the injury to Charlie Batch, it's either Rothlisberger or nothingin Pittsburgh.

Kurt Warner - Reports are today that Warner is just fine after his own minor concussion. Again, with head injuries, keep your eye on this one during the week.

Green Bay Defense - Two pro bowl level players went down for the Packer D, Aaron Kampman and Al Harris. Normally, I don't talk much about defenses, but this will really hurt their performance.

LaDell Betts - A severe knee injury has put LaDell on the pines for the rest of the year. Rock Cartwright is next up for the Redskins and might be worth picking up. He did a good job after Betts' injury.

Marc Bulger - Bulger is out for the year with a broken bone in his leg, so Kyle Boller is the QB in St Louis for the rest of the year is my guess. Not much fantasy value unless you are desparate.

What's Up? Guys who you might want on your roster.

Chris Chambers - If he is out there, snap him up. Two solid performances in a row speaks volumes. On a side note, if owners dropped Dwayne Bowe, and if you have room on your roster, you might want to consider him. He is coming back in time for the playoffs.

Kenny Britt - Still sitting here watching the Titans v Texans and Vince Young has some chemistry with the rookie. If you need WR help, he might be worth a gamble.

Jason Snelling - Snelling has a solid game stepping in for Michael Turner. If you need a short term starter, and if he is available, he is worth a roster spot and a spot start.

Bernard Scott - Scott had a solid if not spectacular game against the Raiders, and it also worth a roster spot for a spot start.

Justin Forsett - Again, Forsett had a nice game in replacing Julius Jones in Seattle, even against the Viking defense. If you have room and need a spot start, Forsett might be worth it.

Michael Crabtree - I wouldn't think Crabtree would be available, but he had a mini coming out party against a tough Green Bay defense, posting his first TD.

Robert Meachem - even with his poaching on Sunday (2 receptions, 10 yards, 2 TDs), I don't see Meachem as worth a roster spot, just too many other weapons on New Orleans.

Today's Hottie: Marla Foust

Sunday Observations

Trying a new format for these. Let me know what you think!

Miami v Carolina
Ricky Williams put on a show on Thursday night, with 140 combined and 3 TDs. Sweet! I am very glad I handcuffed him with Ronnie Brown. Nice game for Steve Smith as well, welcome back to the fantasy world buddy. Why Carolina didn't feed the ball to DeAngelo Williams is a mystery to me AND his fantasy owners.

Indianapolis v Baltimore
Nothing outstanding to write about in this match up. Nice games for both Addai and Rice. Derrick Mason was very good with his 9 receptions for 142, and Pierre Garcon posted a solid 6/108, might worth a waiver wire pick up.

Washington v Dallas
Who would have thought the bore game of the day would be in Dallas and not Detroit. It was another weak performance for Tony Romo. Really nothing to write about except a LaDell Betts injury. Pick up Rock Cartwright if you can this week.

Cleveland v Detroit
An offensive explosion, mainly due to poor defense. And most of these guys were on the fantasy bench. If you had a starting fantasy line up of the following you would have won:Matthew Stafford (sub Brady Quinn in here too)Kevin SmithJamal LewisCalvin JohnsonMuhammed MassaquoiBrandon PettigrewPhil Dawson(skip the defenses)

San Francisco v Green Bay
Aaron Rodgers had his usual must-start performance, and his 2005 draft buddy, Alex Smith was pretty good too. Vernon Davis once again let his game do the talking instead of his gaping mouth. But the real stories are the emergence Ryan Grant and Greg Jennings, who put put up #1 fantasy numbers, like many predicted they would more consistently this year. Jennings in particular could be considered the fantasy bust of the year.

Buffalo v Jacksonville
Welcome back TO. Not that I like him that much, but you have to give him props for the 9/197 and the long TD. Solid game again by the guy no one heard of before this year, Mike Sims-Walker. When will the fantasy world finally believe me when I say the David Garrard is NOT a fantasy QB worth mentioning.

Pittsburgh v Kansas City
Shocking game really. Great numbers for Big Ben with almost 400 and 3 TDs and Matt Cassel was solid with 248 and 2 TDs. Ok, who picked up Chris Chambers this week? Now, who started him? I mentioned Hines Ward in my posts this week and he came through nicely. I really though Pittsburgh would get out to a lead and run the ball to death, but they didn't. But Mendenhall was worth starting with 110+ with a TD. Nice TE game for Heath Miller too.

Seattle v Minnesota
Favre just keep rolling, hitting for 4 TDs. And his favorite guy continues to be Sidney Rice (6-89-2 TDs). Justin Forsett put in a solid game, but mainly in the passing game (8-80) plus a rushing TD. Percy Harvin and Vinsanthe Siancoe both put up solid games, 5-79-1 TD and 8-78-1 TD respectively.

Atlanta v New York Giants
Nice game for Eli and he needed all of it defeat Atlanta this week. Mario Manningham was his chief target (6-126), but no TDs. Jason Snelling rewarded those who picked him up (and started him) with 76 rushing yards and 2 TDs. The tight ends were impressive, Tony Gonzales with 8-82-1 TD and Kevin Boss with 5-76-2 TDs. And if not for a rushing TD, Brandon Jacobs would have had another woeful fantasy day. Coach Coughlin, he needs more than 12 touches a game, that is just getting warmed up.

New Orleans v Tampa Bay
Not sure how to say this, but 187 and 3 TDs for Drew Brees was somehow unsatisfying. Josh Freeman, nor any of the Bucs offense is really ready for prime time. Pierre Thomas (92 yards) and Mike Bell (75 yards and 2 TDs) formed a great running game for the Saints and Robert Meachem posted an all TD poaching game with 2 receptions for 10 yards and 2 TDs.

Arizona v St Louis
The Cards were just not the same offense once Kurt Warner left the game at half. The tandem of Tim Hightower and Beanie Well were nice with 110 yard and 74-1 TD respectively. Boldin (8-103-1 TD) and Fitzgerald (8-87-1 TD) were off to a great start before half. And finally, is anyone really having a better season on a bad team than Steven Jackson with his 24 attempts, 116 yards and a TD? Keep your eye on Bulger as a spot starter if you need one.

San Diego v Denver
What has happened to Denver? Wow. Tomlinson is putting in some solid games lately and again today with 73-1 TD. And I know Denver was behind, but they really need to give the ball more to Knowshon Moreno, who produced 80 yards on 10 attemps. How did San Diego score 32 points and not have any great fantasy performances?

New York Jets v New England
I wish to hell I had drafted Wes Welker like I was going to... but didn't. Damn! 15-192, are you kidding? Jericho Cotchery was solid with 3-84-1 TD. And Mark Sanchez continues to regress with another 4 INTs.

Cincinnati v Oakland
Ok, this was the absolute shocker of the day. Gradkowski was completely unspectacular, but solid with 183 and TDs, but he didn't screw things up. Bernard Scott rewarded those who picked him up with 119 rushing yards and a few catches. Other than, I have to eat crow, thinking the Bengals would be able to throw the ball in Oakland.

Today's Hottie: Marketa and here

Stand up or sit down

Jamey Eisenburg from sportsline.com does some really good analysis. As with the Talented Mr. Roto, I like to review the Start 'em Sit 'em column Eisenburg puts out. If you want to read it, find it here

Quarterbacks
Start 'em:
Brett Favre - I would start him against Seattle, should do well
Matt Schaub - The Tennessee defense has been horrible against good passers
Ben Rothlisberger - Now stick with me on this one. I think the Steelers will shut down the whoeful KC offense, get a lead early, and settle into a smash-mouth running game, limiting Big Ben's need to throw the ball all over. He will do ok, but not excellent.
Matt Hasselbeck - I am not on the wagon with this one. Now, Seattle might be down early and get into a passing situation by middle of the third quarter. Hasselbeck might do ok, but not a must start.
Donovan McNabb - He has a great week in San Diego, mainly because he had to, but he should do ok against the weak Bears D
Sit 'em:
David Garrard - not much argument here
Alex Smith - The Packer D looked strong in shutting down Romo and the Cowboys last week, expect more of the same
Matt Cassel - Cassel might not do great against the Steeler, but might pick up some ok numbers in desparation time
Carson Palmer - Everyone is playing up the Oakland defense on the net, but I see good things for Cinncinati, especially with Benson on the sidelines, they will rely more on the passing game
Matt Ryan - If the o-line can protect him, he will do well, if not, well, hard to throw the ball from your ass

Runningbacks
Start 'em:
LaDainian Tomlinson - The Denver D has not been playing great lately, yet, I don't trust Tomlinson in this one
Ricky Williams - We all know how this one turned out, but I did start him on my team
Beanie Wells - Wells is starting to play more and more, getting more touches, and if they feed him the ball, Beanie will score and scoer well... in fact, I am starting him on my team as well
LeSean McCoy - Against Chicago, I can agree with this start
Bernard Scott - I would not put Scott in a must start category just yet
Sit 'em:
Laurence Maroney - The Hoodie will not commit to the run, and the Jets do fairly well against the run, even without Kris Jenkins
Jonathon Stewart - He had an ok night, but DeAngelo is clearly the star in Carolina
Jamaal Charles - Completely agree with sitting Charles
LaDell Betts - Betts can catch the ball out of the back field, so he might just do ok against the 'Boys
Justin Forsett - Tough match up for his first start, Minnesota will shut him down

Wide Receivers
Start 'em:
Steve Breaston - He is a decent flex option or weaker #2, but not a must start
Santonio Holmes - I would start Hines Ward in this game, Holmes has been very inconsistent, and has some important drops
Jerricho Cotchery - If they keep the reigns on Sanchez, so too will Cotchery be slow
Pierre Garcon - It is hard to name a #3 option (see Breaston), even in a great offense, as a must start... both Wayne and Clark are primary in Indy
Sit 'em
Michael Crabtree - The Packer D played well last week, getting back to the high pressure mode they had been in earlier in the year
Santana Moss - Nice call here, I have seen Moss on some folks start list, but he belongs here, even if he has torched the Cowboys in the past... these are NOT the same old Redskins
Devin Hester - I might sit him too, but he is the primary Wideout for all of Culter's down field jam jobs
Mike Sims-Walker - I don't agree, the Buffalo D is not that strong

Tight Ends
Start 'em:
Greg Olsen - This only works if Culter checks down more than he has been
Kevin Boss - not sure I would ever put Boss on a must start list
John Carlson - The Vikings bring heat and Hasselbeck's first check down will be Carlson, this one could happen
Sit 'em:
Todd Heap - Heap has been mainly invisible anyhow, so not a tough call here
Benjamin Watson - again hard not to sit an invisible player (other than one game)
Zach Miller - A good tight end is always a new QBs best friend... Miller might do ok

Today's Hottie: Sarah Stage
Since she suggested it and it sounded good, Today is Sarah Saturday and will be each of the next few weeks!

Hate / Love

Matthew Berry from ESPN writes a weekly column he calls his Love Hate list. He runs through players he loves for the weekend's matchup and those he hates. And well Berry is an "expert" and gets paid big jack to express his opinions, I often disagree. So, here is my spin in the Talented Mr Roto's thoughts, which can be found here

Berry "Loves"

Ricky Williams - Now this one is late and yes, I liked him too... after all, I started him on my fantasy team and reaped the rewards to the tune of 36+ fantasy points

Lex Hilliard - Berry liked him in deeper leagues, but I never heard him... too obscure
Jonathon Stewart - DeAngelo is still the main main and most talented in Carolina and it showed in Miami

Jason Campbell - Campbell will never be on my love-list, until further notice

Santana Moss - and Moss won't even with his history of big games against Dallas, not as long as Campbell is his QB

Mohammad Massaquoi - I don't see anyone on the Browns really worth starting these days. Their offense looked horrible with Derek Anderson at QB and pathetic is not too strong a word with Quinn under center

Steelers D - Yeah, they should bury KC, sorry Todd Haley

Eli Manning and Steve Smith - Smith has slid into a consistant if not spectacular fantasy WR, worth a solid #2 or weaker #1 slot, but Eli has been sputtering... and will continue so-so numbers against Atlanta

Jason Snelling - too early to proclaim the back up as savior

Jeremy Shockey - I hate those short "trends" that fantasy guru's say predict the future, like the Bucs giving up a TD in 3 of 4 games to a TE... does that mean Shockey will score too? Not, but I still like him against Tampa

Pierre Garcon - He is a decent flex and marginal #2 play if you have him. He is available on many wires, and if you have room, pick him up

Joe Flacco - I can agree with this one just because the Raven defense doesn't scare Manning and the Colts, so Flacco is gonna have to go toe-to-toe with Peyton

TJ House, Nate Burleson and John Carlson - I am not sure why Berry likes the three amigos from Seattle against the stout Minnesota defense... I for one, don't, except maybe Carlson

Brett Favre - Minnesota will start resting AP for the stretch run, using more of Chester Taylor and Favre will continue to ball... throw Sidney Rice in here too.

Bernard Scott - mmmmm, he got nicked up last week after taking over for Benson, and I don't know if he will answer the call to greatest, plus LJ will steal some carries I think

Bengals D - Lock this one, the Raider's offense is anemic

LT - Love his Kari Wuhrer comments, but Denver has a TON to lose in this game, and if they have any backbone, will stand up and fight, shutting down LT

Tony Scheffler - He is worth starting

Greg Olsen - Thanks for sharing the points against info Mr Roto, but unless Culter really starts checking down more, Olsen will continue to be a fanatsy after thought most weeks

LeSean McCoy - this one is a no-brainer

Kevin Walter - Someone has to step in for the production of IR Owen Daniels, and I thought Walter would do that sooner, but perhaps this is the week

Berrys "Hates"

Roy Williams - Even though he sucks and is doing his best to replace TO as a prima-donna and drop-meister, Williams is getting more and more targets and chances to produce, Miles Austin is NOT a #1 NFL wideout and facing the top corners and defenses taking him away is working, so Williams will continue to get opportunities

Frank Gore - Yeah, I agree, Green Bay has not given up a big game to a RB this year really

Ryan Grant - I see a middling game for Grant against the 49'ers

Jamaal Charles - I agree with this one, the Steelers are mad and will bury the Chiefs early, with no time for a running game

Matt Ryan - The Giants have a good pass rush and Ryan has been mediocre of late, but I hold out hope

Carson Palmer and Ocho Cinco - With Benson sidelined, the running game will not be the focus, so the passing game will be... I would pick up Coles if you have room, lots of folks dropped him and he has been quietly out producing "85" recently

Mike Sims-Walker and Torry Holt - The Bills are in disarray, one MSW will do fine, not sure about Holt (who else but me misses the old Holt?)

Joseph Addai - Addai has been having an unspectacular if not really solid year, probably near the #10 RB spot in your league... look for yourself, I could see him doing ok here

Austin Collie - Collie has disappeared since a nice week... weeks ago

Laurence Maroney - The Jets are not nearly as tough as they were earlier in the year. Maroney would be an ok #2 option

Knowshon Moreno - The San Diego defense is not as tough as it once was and Moreno will be ok, not great, but ok

Jay Cutler - Yeah, Philly is tough on D and Culter is too careless with the ball... mad skills, but careless

Devin Hester - He will be on my bench this week

Ryan Moats - I stashed him on my fantasy bench, but not sure what I have in him yet... I will be watching this week

Today's Hottie: Danielle

The wire

The injuries are mounting in the league, especially in the runningback world. Brian Westbrook. Ronnie Brown. Cedric Benson. Julius Jones. Shall we continue? Clinton Portis. Michael Turner. All this does is keep the waiver wire hot. I like the logic and thoughts presented by Roger Rotter on foxsport.com. Read his wire article here Here are his top 10 wire pick ups right now and some of my own thoughts on them

10. Larry Johnson, RB, CincinnatiJohson just signed with Cincinnati. With Benson out and no clear idea when he will return, Johnson might be a nice short term pick up. And the rookie, Bernard Scott, got nicked up in his first significant work last Sunday. I am not saying go right out and claim Johnson, but it bears watching

9. Nate Washington, WR, TennesseeI would put my money on Kenny Britt stepping up more here, although Washington will get his chances. They play weak defenses, but Washington does nothing consistently, except consistently unimpress.

8. Jason Avant, WR, PhiladelphiaIf you are desparate, this might work, but only in desparation. Avant has been in the league a few years and has not stood out. I don't see that happened suddenly out of the blue, especially with better targets all over in Maclin, Jackson and Celek, not to mention whichever RB is playing. Avant benefitted from a wild air attack comeback Philly needed against San Diego.

7. Chris Chambers, WR, Kansas CityHe is probably gone already, but if he is out there and you need WR help, give this a shot. He stepped right in and became the #2 wideout. Coach Haley loves to toss the ball so Chambers should do well.

6. Jason Snelling, RB, AtlantaSnelling is not Michael Turner and will share carries with whoever else is on the roster, depending on Jerious Norwood's status. If Norwood plays, Snelling's value goes down as well.

5. Bernard Scott, RB, CincinnatiScott's value took an immediate hit when Larry Johnson was signed. If the Bengals can do a reclamation project on Johnson like they did Benson, watch out for LJ. But for now Scott has the job, but don't expect huge success.

4. Jamaal Charles, RB, Kansas CityCharles is a good pickup, and keep an eye on Kolby Smith. I don't think Charles would be available, since Johnson is gone over a week, but check.

3. Ladell Betts, RB, WashingtonLast I heard, Portis is out, so pick up Betts if you need help and he is available. I don't think he would be, but he is worth a roster spot with Portis still down.

2. Justin Forsett, RB, SeattleForsett is gone already I would expect, but if not, grab him. He is definately worth a spot and yes, I think he should keep the job in Seattle.

1. LeSean McCoy, RB, PhiladelphiaAgain, doubt he is on the wire, but snap him up if he is. I don't know if Westbrook will be back this year, but McCoy should do well in his place.

Today's Hottie: Nicole P

Counter Point

Jay Clemons write a pretty entertaining column for SI.com. And like most fantasy guru's or experts or whatever you want to call them, you never agree with all of what they say. Jay writes before the weekend games on guys who are a lock for good performances. Here is this week's column and my comments:

QB Locks For 275 Yards and/or 3 TDs
1. Kurt Warner @ St. Louis - St. Louis is playing hard for new coach Steve Spagnola, and will this week too, but Warner and the Cards should thrive, lock it in
2. Philip Rivers @ Denver - The Denver D has not been stellar (take it from an owner), but they have to stand tall this weekend, Rivers will struggle to meet these numbers
3. Tom Brady vs. N.Y. Jets - The Jets are fighting for their playoff lives and a share of the division, and should repeat be able to slow the Patriots down, if not win the game
4. Donovan McNabb @ Chicago - The Bearz D has not been solid and McNabb should do well... but just when you think the Eagles are a lock...well, you know.
5. Drew Brees @ Tampa Bay - Tampa is playing much better of late, but Brees should excel in this matchup
6. Eli Manning vs. Atlanta - This one depends on the health of his foot, the week off should help and Manning should hit these numbers
7. Brett Favre vs. Seattle - This one depends on AP, but I would look for the yardage or TDs, but not both
8. Aaron Rodgers vs. San Francisco - This is going to be a tough game and I don't see Rodgers doing it
9. Matthew Stafford vs. Cleveland - Too early to lock the rookie into these type of numbers, not with the Browns D suddenly playing inspired ball

RB Locks -- 120 Total Yards and/or 2 TDs
1. DeAngelo Williams vs. Miami - Williams is on a roll and should continue
2. Ray Rice vs. Indianapolis - While Indy will win this game, Rice will work the short passing game and easily work these numbers, maybe both
3. Marion Barber vs. Washington - Too much time share in Big D, ain't gonna happen
4. Frank Gore @ Green Bay - The Green Bay D has been solid all year and should again be
5. Maurice Jones-Drew vs. Buffalo - Bank this one
6. Adrian Peterson vs. Seattle - And this one
7. Pierre Thomas @ Tampa Bay - I am not sure of this one, depends on how much the ball gets spread around, and remember, Reggie Bush stole the thunder last week
8. Beanie Wells @ St. Louis - Ok, the rookie is starting to impress
9. Chris Johnson @ Houston - Locked, must start Johnson
10. Matt Forte vs. Philadelphia - Flash in the pan, I don't see Forte being anything more than a secondary fantasy back the rest of the way
11. Rashard Mendenhall @ Kansas City - If Air-Rothlisberger commits to the run, Mendenhall will perform

WR Locks -- 110 Total Yards and/or 1 TD
1. Andre Johnson vs. Tennessee - Lock this one in
2. Randy Moss vs. N.Y. Jets - Revis shut up down in their last match up and should again, at lease limit him
3. Jeremy Maclin @ Chicago - I like Maclin in this match up
4. Wes Welker vs. N.Y. Jets - Welker should do his normal 9 for 87 with maybe a TD
5. Vincent Jackson @ Denver - Jackson is a must start and a lock
6. Larry Fitzgerald @ St. Louis - Lock this one in
7. Calvin Johnson vs. Cleveland - I am gonna say no to this, Cleveland showed defensive life on Monday
8. Marques Colston @ Tampa Bay - Ok, I can go with this one after the poor performance last week
9. Hines Ward @ Kansas City - Wards lives for this time of year, bank it
10. Sidney Rice vs. Seattle - Rice has been an impressive performer and is only getter stronger
11. Santana Moss @ Dallas - Not gonna happen, Moss has been a no-show most of the year, not reason to believe otherwise now
12. Steve Breaston @ St. Louis - Not, unless Boldin is out

Today's Hottie: Carrie LaChance