Fantasy Football News 2010/2011

HacheMan · Sep 15, 2010

Grant's Tomb
We're through one week of the NFL season and there has already been a ton of carnage. It's a reminder of how fragile a fantasy football season can be. In one 16-team league, I was counting on Matthew Stafford as my QB1. Sigh. But no one is going to feel sorry for you or wants to hear you whine. Understand the injuries and move on.

For help digesting some of the wreckage, we chatted with Dr. Brian Eckenrode, a board-certified orthopedic clinical specialist and the sports team leader for GSPP Penn Therapy and Fitness at the Penn Sports Medicine Center in Philadelphia.

Editor's Note: To see projections, rankings for Week 2, target reports, Dynasty stock watch and much more, get the 2010 Season Pass!

<BIG>MICHAEL BUSH</BIG>
Injury: Bennett's fracture in left thumb
Timetable: Unknown

What is a Bennett's fracture? It's a fracture at the long portion of thumb bone. It's where the base of the bone meets the rest of the wrist.

Could he play with a club on his hand? A lineman or linebacker could, but I believe it's Bush's dominant hand. I'd expect him to miss at least four weeks from the time of the surgery (late August).

What's the aggravation risk? Once it's healed, it's healed. He should wait to have enough strength back to be comfortable carrying the ball. If he comes back too quickly, he could be a fumbling risk.

Rotoworld opinion: Bush's absence allowed Darren McFadden to seize control of the starting gig. Look for Bush to return to a limited "change-of-pace" role.

<BIG>LARRY FITZGERALD</BIG>
Injury: Sprained MCL in right knee
Timetable: Expected to play in Week 2

Are you surprised that he is still complaining about this sprained MCL almost four weeks after it happened? Well, we clearly didn't know the severity of the MCL sprain. How long the ligaments take to heal all depend on the severity.

What's his outlook going forward now that he's playing but seemingly limited? I wouldn't expect him to miss any games, but I wouldn't expect him to be completely pain free either. He could very well be limited in practice. For now, he's going to have to battle through it.

Can it heal without rest? A bye week would certainly help his recovery time. He's going to play 60 minutes on it next week, and that may aggravate it a little bit. If they had a bye week this week, I think he'd feel MUCH better with just that time off. (Editor's Note: The Cardinals' bye is Week 6.)

Rotoworld opinion: This is not a serious injury, but it is concerning that it has lingered. Dr. Eckenrode's opinion that the knee will get stronger with just a little rest makes us think Fitzgerald will produce better results as the year goes on.

<BIG>RYAN GRANT</BIG>
Injury: Torn ligament in right ankle, fracture near his knee.
Timetable: On crutches for 10-12 weeks, out for season

How serious is this injury? It sounds to me like some version of what Terrell Owens had in 2004. Essentially he has a high ankle sprain. When you have a high ankle sprain, there's a membrane that separates the two lower shinbones. Basically it tears up through that and actually the force of it causes a fracture just below the knee. So the energy gets transferred up through the leg. And that's why there's a fracture up there.

Will this affect his status for next season? No, he should be fine.

Will he be able to return at 100 percent? Yes, especially since he's got a whole year to recover. It would be different if it was the playoffs or late in the year, but here he can take his time with the rehab.

Rotoworld opinion: Grant has been a reliable, rugged runner for the Packers. But there's a strong possibility this is the end of the line for him in Green Bay. We don't see him as a difference-maker and he is set to earn too much money in 2011.

<BIG>MATTHEW STAFFORD</BIG>
Injury: Right (throwing) shoulder
Timetable: Out indefinitely. Exact timetable unclear

The Lions reportedly fear that Stafford could miss 4-8 weeks with a Grade II sprain of the AC joint. First of all, what does that mean? The AC joint is sort of the end of the shoulder. Grade II is the severity of it. Grade I is more of a sprain. Grade II is a little bit more pronounced, a few more ligaments are harmed.

There are three main ligaments that hold the AC joint together. Grade 1 they are all stretched a little bit. Grade II one could be torn and the others are stretched. Grade III, there's a separation there. Note that if his shoulder popped in and out it's different than if his AC joint popped in and out.

It's obviously more concerning that his throwing shoulder is damaged? Absolutely. He'll need full range of motion without pain in order to throw. That's going to take a few weeks.

When he does return, will his arm strength be limited? No, because typically the muscles aren't affected. It will be more about how he takes hits. It's really nothing to do with strength, outside of not being able to throw for a few weeks.

Rotoworld opinion: We'll wait to hear from Dr. Andrews before dropping Stafford, but this doesn't sound good. Most owners can safely dump the former breakout candidate.

<BIG>BEANIE WELLS</BIG>
Injury: Knee bruise or sprain suffered on Sept. 2.
Timetable: Expected to play this week

It's been less than two weeks since the initial injury. What does it tell you that he missed Week 1 and is now on track to play in Week 2? It's such a vague diagnosis. If he got hit on the front of the kneecap, basically that kneecap banged into the bone. That can cause pain from both in front of the knee and behind the knee. It can painful for people. It can also be something like a helmet to the leg or if he landed on the side of his knee.

Could he be limited? Hard to say. But since he didn't play last week, I wouldn't expect something like 20 touches this week. He may need to be eased in.

Rotoworld opinion: After Tim Hightower fumbled twice last week, the coaches will be anxious to get Beanie back in there. Look for an even split this week before Wells gradually assumes control of this backfield.

The Upenn rehab specialists interviewed in this story have not examined the athletes discussed. Their statements are general guidelines regarding their experience with injured athletes, and should not be taken as medical opinions.

For more information on Brian Eckenrode, PT, DPT, OCS and GSPP Penn Therapy and Fitness, visit phillyrehab.com.

Editor's Note: For early rankings every Tuesday morning and full projections updated all week, in addition to our award-winning Season Pass.



<BIG>TUESDAY HEADLINES</BIG>
NEWS OF THE DAY #1
As mentioned above, Ryan Grant is out for the year. It's time for everyone to meet Brandon Jackson.

Jackson was a former second-round pick that struggled with a ton of nagging injuries but recently seemed to turn the corner. He is a natural third-down back and the Packers felt confident enough in him to dump third-stringer Kregg Lumpkin on cutdown day. The Packers brought in Dimitri Nance off the Falcons' practice squad Tuesday, but make no mistake: Jackson is the feature back in an explosive offense.

He has good burst and is elusive. He excels as a pass-catcher which will be key. The Packers are set to go even more pass happy than they were already (hello, Aaron Rodgers and Greg Jennings). Jackson will lose goal-line work to John Kuhn, but he's a strong RB2 play in all formats -- especially PPR. I'd blow almost all of my waiver acquisition budget on him if I needed running back help. Jackson is unproven but is set up to succeed in that offense.

NEWS OF THE DAY #2
Laurence Maroney was traded to the Broncos in exchange for a swap of 2011 draft picks. It sounds like a big move for the Broncos, but keep in mind that Maroney was looking like the fourth-string runner in New England even when healthy.

Consider Maroney a threat to Correll Buckhalter's workload while merely supporting Knowshon Moreno. Meanwhile, Fred Taylor remains the clear starter in New England, but I'll never trust a running back in a Bill Belichick offense. I still consider Taylor more of a bye-week fill in than every-week starter.

INJURY QUICK SLANTS
Matt Moore (concussion) is tentatively expected to start this weekend. ... Anthony Gonzalez (high ankle sprain) is already out for Week 2 and probably beyond. Drop him. ... Demaryius Thomas (foot) says he's still at least a couple weeks away from being able to play. ... Ted Ginn (knee) is expected to miss at least two weeks. ... Jake Delhomme (ankle) is suddenly questionable for Week 2. Seneca Wallace is his backup. ... Kevin Kolb won't be evaluated until later in the week, but it's still looking like Michael Vick will start.

DEPTH CHART QUICK SLANTS
Rex Ryan suggested that Shonn Greene and LaDainian Tomlinson will split carries equally going forward. For now, we suspect he'll be trusting Tomlinson more no matter what he says. ... Darrelle Revis will be used to shadow Randy Moss this week. ... Tim Tebow isn't expect to get much more than the three snaps he saw in Week 1. ... Patrick Crayton dressed on Monday night but didn't get on the field. He's off the radar. ... The Dolphins are reportedly frustrated with Brian Hartline's consistency. He's also off the radar for now.

HacheMan · Sep 15, 2010

Don't give up on the West

You probably have few players from the AFC or NFC West on your roster, and with good reason. Once you get past Philip Rivers, Larry Fitzgerald and a few others, both divisions are home to bad teams, unsettled receiver situations and confusing running back committees.

But there are good reasons to keep an eye on the Western quagmires in the first week of the season. If your fellow fantasy owners were as wise as you, they steered clear of the West as well. That means there may be bargains on the waiver wire. And all of the Western division teams face each other, so you'll get some matchup opportunities against bad defenses if you pick the right player.

Editor's Note: To see projections, rankings for Week 2, target reports, Dynasty stock watch and much more, get the 2010 Season Pass!

Here's an in-depth look at what we learned from the eight AFC and NFC West teams in the opening week: who their go-to receivers really were, how their backfields are shaking out, and if there's anyone sleeping on waivers that you may want to wake up.

Broncos: Those of us who thought Brandon Lloyd was now selling steak knives door-to-door were shocked when he caught five passes for 117 yards on Sunday. Kyle Orton also looked for Lloyd three times near the goal line. Lloyd drew a pass interference penalty on one play (it set up a Knowshon Moreno touchdown), but Orton's other two passes fell incomplete. Lloyd's leaping ability is his greatest (only) skill, so he may run a few more fade routes, but it's hard to imagine him becoming a go-to receiver at this point in his career. Eddie Royal (10) was targeted more than Lloyd (8) in the game.

Orton threw the ball a lot in the Broncos' few goal-to-go appearances, hitting Jabar Gaffney for a touchdown and looking for Daniel Graham from the eight-yard line when not staring down Lloyd. Orton could be sitting on the waiver wire; considering some of the defenses he'll face, he's a capable spot starter.

Cardinals: Derek Anderson targeted Larry Fitzgerald 15 times, six of them with deep passes. Anderson is no Kurt Warner, but Fitzgerald is Mister Rogers, and all Anderson needs to do is keep throwing the ball in his neighborhood. Tim Hightower got the team's lone goal-to-go carry (he scored) and was 4-for-4 as a pass target. He's worth starting as long as Beanie Wells is questionable. Steve Breaston was 7-for-7 in targets and worth a waiver claim if he slept in your draft. Avoid Anderson like quicksand. If you are looking for a good bye-week defense, check out the talent on the Cardinals defense, then check out their opposing schedule.

Chargers: Paging Vincent Jackson! Will Vincent Jackson please report to the general manager's office with a ballpoint pen! The Chargers deserve a partial mulligan for playing in the rain on Monday night, but rain or no rain, their offense needs Jackson's services. Malcom Floyd led the team with 12 targets but caught just three passes. Rivers looked for Floyd four times in the red zone during the team's final drive, but none of the four passes were completed. Floyd's a stopgap fantasy starter until Jackson returns.

Ryan Matthews was unimpressive – his longest run of the game ended in a fumble – but he'll get many more opportunities. Those who drafted Darren Sproles as a handcuff should note that a) Sproles looked bad and b) Mike Tolbert got a few late-game carries and could sneak into the picture as a short yardage runner.

Chiefs: Thomas Jones got the start, Jamaal Charles got the 56-yard touchdown, and neither got a goal-to-go carry. The good news, at least, is that the Chiefs offensive line played pretty well, so if this committee sorts itself out, the Chiefs could provide a fantasy starter at running back. Dwayne Bowe caught one pass in five targets, though rain and a good opposing defense were factors. Tight end Tony Moeaki is the kind of player your brother-in-law places a waiver bid on. IDP fans should note that Derrick Johnson had 12 tackles. Johnson was battling for a starting job in camp and may have slept in IDP leagues. He's a steady source of tackles.

49ers: Kssssh … Alex can you hear me? ... Ksssh, Alex it's your offensive coordinator. Come in! You can blame Alex Smith's ineptitude, coaching staff confusion, or sunspot activity that disrupted the helmet headset, but the Niners goal-line offense was an utter disgrace on Sunday. The team reached the red zone three times early in the game against the Seahawks but came away with just six points. Frank Gore had five red zone touches and will have some more. Oddly, Vernon Davis and Michael Crabtree saw no red zone passes as Alex Smith elected to throw to Delanie Walker (twice) and Moran Norris. Norris also had a rushing opportunity. The fix seems simple enough, guys: more Gore, Davis, and Crabtree, less Delanie and Moran and friends.

Crabtree was targeted eight times in the game but caught just two passes. Smith was scattershot all game and was a huge part of the problem; Mike Singletary may bench or slay him soon after Smith called out half the organization after the game. Don't do anything rash with Gore: he faces the Saints on Monday night, and while their run defense looks better, let's wait and see.

Raiders: Forget vertical offense. The Raiders threw "deep" (as marked by the official play by play) just twice against the Titans, even though they trailed for most of the game. Zach Miller caught one of the deep passes for 27 yards. Miller (eight targets) remains a viable fantasy tight end. As for the receivers, Louis Murphy led the way with seven targets. 'Nuff said.

The Raiders executed just 11 red zone plays, all of them in the fourth quarter of a blowout loss. Darren McFadden ran or was targeted five times in the red zone, scoring once. With beatable foes on the horizon and Michael Bush out, he's an adequate fantasy starter.

Rams: Mark Clayton has never been a good fantasy receiver, though if Sam Bradford is going to force feed him 16 passes per game he may be tempting. Don't waste the waiver claim. Even with Clayton getting all that attention, Bradford threw to Danny Amendola three times in the red zone. This offense has a long way to go before it sorts itself out. The name "Billy Bajema" gets called waaaay too often in Rams games.

You draft Steven Jackson knowing there will be a lot of 81-yard, no-touchdown afternoons. The Rams only reached the red zone twice, once right before half (when they were in hurry up and couldn't hand off), so Jackson got only two red zone carries, and they weren't in goal-to-go situations. Get used to it.

Seahawks: Matt Hasselbeck scrambled for a one-yard touchdown, and later in the game threw three straight passes from the three-yard line: incompletions to Mike Williams and John Carlson, then a touchdown to Deion Branch. This wasn't a hurry-up situation – the Seahawks led 21-6 – so you can chalk it up as a philosophical decision. That's bad news if you are banking on production from a member of the Justin Forsett-Julius Jones- Leon Washington subcommittee. The three backs rotated with no clear usage pattern, making it impossible to determine which one will step up as a fantasy option. Williams led all receivers with six targets. In other words, this is a fantasy mess.

HacheMan · Sep 16, 2010

V-Jax packing his bags?

The Vincent Jackson to the Vikings rumors are starting to sprout legs. Profootballtalk.com initially reported that Jackson had a one-year deal in place with another team on cut-down day. PFT went on to second a report by KFAN in Minneapolis last weekend that the Vikings are prepared to make a play for Jackson if -- and only if -- his suspension is reduced from six games to three by an arbitrator following Thursday's 9 a.m. hearing.

After Vikes owner Zygi Wilf made it clear early this week that he's in Super Bowl-or-bust mode, the V-Jax rumors began picking up even more steam. Brett Favre, never shy about recruiting impact weapons, has undoubtedly been in Wilf's ear on the subject.

As a guest on XX Sports San Diego's radio show Wednesday, FOX Sports' John Czarnecki added to the previous reports, stating that the Vikings are poised to offer "a high draft pick" for Jackson. Czarnecki believes the Rams will re-enter the mix as well. The Chargers' price tag is believed to be in the neighborhood of a 2011 second-round pick plus a conditional pick in 2012 if Jackson ends up signing a long-term deal with his new team.

Bolts GM A.J. Smith is said to be vehement about keeping his former No. 1 receiver out of the AFC, and the NFC North's Vikes would be a best-case scenario for Jackson's fantasy value. Favre is lacking a big-play threat down the field with Sidney Rice out until at least November, and no receiver in the league comes down with the ball in traffic better than V-Jax. If one was to draw up the perfect weapon for Favre to "lead" into tight spaces, the 6'5" Jackson would be it.

The potential trade would have major fantasy repercussions, escalating the value of not only Jackson but also Favre.

Again, all of this hinges on Thursday's arbitration case, the results of which could be known as early as Friday. If the ruling comes down in Jackson's favor, he could be in purple and gold by the week's end.

Although Aaron Rodgers fanned the flames of a potential trade for former Cal teammate Marshawn Lynch Wednesday, this hot-stove talk appears to have no legs whatsoever. The Bills wanted at least a third-round pick in return for Lynch last April, and Packers GM Ted Thompson doesn't part with draft picks for veterans. On the heels of speculation that the Bills might be interested in a one-for-one swap involving Packers ILB Alex Hawk, NFL Network's Jason La Canfora reported that Buffalo is telling teams Lynch "is not available."

After coach Andy Reid acknowledged that Kevin Kolb (concussion) will not practice until Friday at the earliest, NFL Network's Michael Lombardi confirmed that Michael Vick will draw the start at Detroit on Sunday. In fact, Lombardi expects Vick to take the job and run with it for the rest of the season. There's reason to believe that Vick gives the team a better chance to win this season, and he could gain serious momentum in a plus matchup this week and perhaps next week against the Jaguars as well. Consider Vick a top-10 fantasy option this week, with the potential for QB1 value the rest of the way.

Although Steven Jackson (knee) was held out of Rams practice Wednesday, he's fully expected to play against the Raiders in Week 2. Jackson came out of the opener with inflammation in his knee, and the MRI came up negative. His absence was likely precautionary, so expect him to return to the practice field before the weekend.

Editor's Note: Check out our Season Pass package, featuring IDP rankings, Top 200 rankings, Evan Silva's running back report, Ryan Boyer's Wide Receiver Report, Chris Wesseling's Dynasty advice, advance workload and target data, exclusive chats, and schedule analysis you can only get with Season Pass.

Two-Minute Drill: Coach Jim Schwartz confirmed that Shaun Hill will be the Lions' starter in a tough matchup against the Eagles this week. ... Although Byron Leftwich (knee) returned to a limited practice, Dennis Dixon has already been announced as the starter at Tennessee. ... Tom Brady acknowledged that he does not plan to challenge Darrelle Revis against Randy Moss in Sunday's matchup with the Jets. ... Owen Daniels is expected to be limited to roughly 40 snaps for a second straight week. ... Bucs coordinator Greg Olson indicated that Kareem Huggins is in line for a bigger role this week after going without a touch in the opener. ... Two media sources in Denver expect Laurence Maroney to ultimately replace Correll Buckhalter as Knowshon Moreno's backup. ... Coach Chan Gailey confirmed that Keith Ellison will start at inside linebacker until Paul Posluszny (knee) returns. ... The Rams had been in trade talks with the Pats for a running back before Laurence Maroney was dealt. ... After further film review, the NFL has credited Packers OLB Clay Matthews with three Week 1 sacks.

Red Zone: Matt Moore (concussion) is expected to start against the Bucs after practicing in a limited fashion Wednesday. ... Jake Delhomme (ankle) will be a game-time decision this week after missing practice. ... Beanie Wells (knee) was limited in his return to practice Wednesday. ... Cedric Benson (shoulder), Matt Forte (knee), and Fred Taylor (toe) were all limited on Wednesday. ... MIchael Bush was able to put in a full practice Wednesday, but his Week 2 status remains up in the air. ... Hakeem Nicks (ankle) is expected to return to the field Thursday after missing Wednesday's practice. ... Anquan Boldin (thigh), Percy Harvin (hip), and Devin Aromashodu (knee) were all limited Wednesday. ... Eddie Royal and Seahawks WR Mike Williams both missed Wednesday's practice with thigh injuries. ... Early Doucet's sports hernia may require surgery, which would push exciting rookie Stephen Williams into the No. 3 receiver role. ... Todd Heap (shoulder) conceded that his status for Week 2 is in doubt after sitting out practice on Wednesday. ... Rams Kevin Boss (concussion) has been ruled out for Week 2. ... Bob Sanders underwent surgery to repair a torn biceps tendon, but the Colts are keeping him on the active roster for now. ... Eagles MLB Stewart Bradley failed the second phase of his concussion testing Wednesday morning. ... Browns ILB D'Qwell Jackson (pectoral) could return to practice by Friday. ... The Dolphins are reportedly giving thought to placing ILB Channing Crowder (groin) on I.R.

HacheMan · Sep 16, 2010

Week 2 Rankings
The first boos of the NFL season happened at Ralph Wilson Stadium with 5:22 left in the first quarter. Trent Edwards threw a two-yard pass to Lee Evans on third-and-12. An offseason of cautious optimism had already given way to misery.

Over at the New Meadowlands Stadium, the home crowd waited until halftime to shower their Giants with boos. Everything about the Giants was just like last year … until it was awesome in the second half. The pass rush is back! Hakeem Nicks is like Randy Moss with less entertaining post-game clothes! Maybe Big Blue can win the NFC East after all!

There isn't a week on the NFL calendar with more overreaction, faulty assumptions, and poor fantasy football decisions made than this one. It's easy to talk about patience and harder to practice it. Great players will be dropped for Nate Washington. Michael Crabtree will be benched for Mike Thomas. It will all look silly on Monday. Then we'll do it again.

This is a week to stay active on the waiver wire – there aren't better players available than right now. Good undrafted talent and drafted players people give up on too quickly. It's also a week to try to sift through what was a one-week fluke, and what we can actually learn from Week 1. Let's try below.

[SIZE=+1]Week 2 Quarterbacks[/SIZE]

<TABLE width="100%"><TBODY><TR class=TableTopRed><TD>Rank</TD><TD>Player Name</TD><TD>Opponent</TD><TD>Notes</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>1</TD><TD>Drew Brees</TD><TD>at SF</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>2</TD><TD>Aaron Rodgers</TD><TD>vs. BUF</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>3</TD><TD>Peyton Manning</TD><TD>vs. NYG</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>4</TD><TD>Philip Rivers</TD><TD>vs. JAC</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>5</TD><TD>Matt Schaub</TD><TD>at WAS</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>6</TD><TD>Tom Brady</TD><TD>at NYJ</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>7</TD><TD>Tony Romo</TD><TD>vs. CHI</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>8</TD><TD>Michael Vick</TD><TD>at DET</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>9</TD><TD>Jay Cutler</TD><TD>at DAL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>10</TD><TD>Joe Flacco</TD><TD>at CIN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>11</TD><TD>Matt Ryan</TD><TD>vs. ARZ</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>12</TD><TD>Brett Favre</TD><TD>vs. MIA</TD><TD>Probable(ankle)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>13</TD><TD>Donovan McNabb</TD><TD>vs. HOU</TD><TD>Probable(ankle)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>14</TD><TD>Kyle Orton</TD><TD>vs. SEA</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>15</TD><TD>Eli Manning</TD><TD>at IND</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>16</TD><TD>David Garrard</TD><TD>at SD</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>17</TD><TD>Carson Palmer</TD><TD>vs. BAL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>18</TD><TD>Matt Cassel</TD><TD>at CLE</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>19</TD><TD>Chad Henne</TD><TD>at MIN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>20</TD><TD>Matt Hasselbeck</TD><TD>at DEN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>21</TD><TD>Vince Young</TD><TD>vs. PIT</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>22</TD><TD>Sam Bradford</TD><TD>at OAK</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>23</TD><TD>Jason Campbell</TD><TD>vs. STL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>24</TD><TD>Derek Anderson</TD><TD>at ATL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>25</TD><TD>Alex Smith</TD><TD>vs. NO</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>26</TD><TD>Josh Freeman</TD><TD>at CAR</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>27</TD><TD>Seneca Wallace</TD><TD>vs. KC</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>28</TD><TD>Mark Sanchez</TD><TD>vs. NE</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>29</TD><TD>Dennis Dixon</TD><TD>at TEN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>30</TD><TD>Shaun Hill</TD><TD>vs. PHI</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>31</TD><TD>Trent Edwards</TD><TD>at GB</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>32</TD><TD>Matt Moore</TD><TD>vs. TB</TD><TD>Questionable(concussion)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>33</TD><TD>Kevin Kolb</TD><TD>at DET</TD><TD>Sidelined(concussion)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>34</TD><TD>Jake Delhomme</TD><TD>vs. KC</TD><TD>Questionable(ankle)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>35</TD><TD>Jimmy Clausen</TD><TD>vs. TB</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>36</TD><TD>Tim Tebow</TD><TD>vs. SEA</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>37</TD><TD>Max Hall</TD><TD>at ATL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>38</TD><TD>Charlie Batch</TD><TD>at TEN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>
QB Notes: All of my player notes are coming by Thursday night, so check back often. For now, we'll just give you the good stuff. Complete projections and early rankings (Tuesday) are on <AHREF ="http://www.rotoworld.com/premium/seasonpass/football/main_page.asp">season pass every week, along with weekend updates.


[SIZE=+1]Week 2 Running backs[/SIZE]

<TABLE width="100%"><TBODY><TR class=TableTopRed><TD>Rank</TD><TD>Player Name</TD><TD>Opponent</TD><TD>Notes</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>1</TD><TD>Chris Johnson</TD><TD>vs. PIT</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>2</TD><TD>Adrian Peterson</TD><TD>vs. MIA</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>3</TD><TD>Maurice Jones-Drew</TD><TD>at SD</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>4</TD><TD>Ray Rice</TD><TD>at CIN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>5</TD><TD>Frank Gore</TD><TD>vs. NO</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>6</TD><TD>Steven Jackson</TD><TD>at OAK</TD><TD>Probable(knee)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>7</TD><TD>Arian Foster</TD><TD>at WAS</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>8</TD><TD>Michael Turner</TD><TD>vs. ARZ</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>9</TD><TD>Rashard Mendenhall</TD><TD>at TEN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>10</TD><TD>DeAngelo Williams</TD><TD>vs. TB</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>11</TD><TD>Ryan Mathews</TD><TD>vs. JAC</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>12</TD><TD>Jamaal Charles</TD><TD>at CLE</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>13</TD><TD>Jahvid Best</TD><TD>vs. PHI</TD><TD>Probable(toe)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>14</TD><TD>Pierre Thomas</TD><TD>at SF</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>15</TD><TD>LeSean McCoy</TD><TD>at DET</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>16</TD><TD>Matt Forte</TD><TD>at DAL</TD><TD>Probable(knee)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>17</TD><TD>Ahmad Bradshaw</TD><TD>at IND</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>18</TD><TD>Brandon Jackson</TD><TD>vs. BUF</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>19</TD><TD>Joseph Addai</TD><TD>vs. NYG</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>20</TD><TD>Cedric Benson</TD><TD>vs. BAL</TD><TD>Probable(shoulder)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>21</TD><TD>Darren McFadden</TD><TD>vs. STL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>22</TD><TD>Knowshon Moreno</TD><TD>vs. SEA</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>23</TD><TD>Shonn Greene</TD><TD>vs. NE</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>24</TD><TD>Beanie Wells</TD><TD>at ATL</TD><TD>Questionable(knee)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>25</TD><TD>Ronnie Brown</TD><TD>at MIN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>26</TD><TD>Marion Barber</TD><TD>vs. CHI</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>27</TD><TD>Jonathan Stewart</TD><TD>vs. TB</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>28</TD><TD>Felix Jones</TD><TD>vs. CHI</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>29</TD><TD>Cadillac Williams</TD><TD>at CAR</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>30</TD><TD>Jerome Harrison</TD><TD>vs. KC</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>31</TD><TD>Clinton Portis</TD><TD>vs. HOU</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>32</TD><TD>Brandon Jacobs</TD><TD>at IND</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>33</TD><TD>Ricky Williams</TD><TD>at MIN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>34</TD><TD>Peyton Hillis</TD><TD>vs. KC</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>35</TD><TD>Fred Jackson</TD><TD>at GB</TD><TD>Probable(hand)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>36</TD><TD>C.J. Spiller</TD><TD>at GB</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>37</TD><TD>LaDainian Tomlinson</TD><TD>vs. NE</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>38</TD><TD>Justin Forsett</TD><TD>at DEN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>39</TD><TD>Reggie Bush</TD><TD>at SF</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>40</TD><TD>Tim Hightower</TD><TD>at ATL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>41</TD><TD>Michael Bush</TD><TD>vs. STL</TD><TD>Questionable(thumb)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>42</TD><TD>Thomas Jones</TD><TD>at CLE</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>43</TD><TD>Chester Taylor</TD><TD>at DAL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>44</TD><TD>Fred Taylor</TD><TD>at NYJ</TD><TD>Probable(toe)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>45</TD><TD>Darren Sproles</TD><TD>vs. JAC</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>46</TD><TD>Steve Slaton</TD><TD>at WAS</TD><TD>Probable(toe)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>47</TD><TD>Leon Washington</TD><TD>at DEN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>48</TD><TD>Willis McGahee</TD><TD>at CIN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>49</TD><TD>Tashard Choice</TD><TD>vs. CHI</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>50</TD><TD>Jerious Norwood</TD><TD>vs. ARZ</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>51</TD><TD>Bernard Scott</TD><TD>vs. BAL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>52</TD><TD>Correll Buckhalter</TD><TD>vs. SEA</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>53</TD><TD>Laurence Maroney</TD><TD>vs. SEA</TD><TD>Questionable(thigh)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>54</TD><TD>Donald Brown</TD><TD>vs. NYG</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>55</TD><TD>Mike Bell</TD><TD>at DET</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>56</TD><TD>John Kuhn</TD><TD>vs. BUF</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>57</TD><TD>Kevin Faulk</TD><TD>at NYJ</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>58</TD><TD>Marshawn Lynch</TD><TD>at GB</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>59</TD><TD>Larry Johnson</TD><TD>vs. HOU</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>60</TD><TD>Isaac Redman</TD><TD>at TEN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

[SIZE=+1]Week 2 Wide Receivers[/SIZE]

<TABLE width="100%"><TBODY><TR class=TableTopRed><TD>Rank</TD><TD>Player Name</TD><TD>Opponent</TD><TD>Notes</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>1</TD><TD>Roddy White</TD><TD>vs. ARZ</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>2</TD><TD>Andre Johnson</TD><TD>at WAS</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>3</TD><TD>Miles Austin</TD><TD>vs. CHI</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>4</TD><TD>Reggie Wayne</TD><TD>vs. NYG</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>5</TD><TD>Brandon Marshall</TD><TD>at MIN</TD><TD>Probable(ankle)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>6</TD><TD>Steve Smith</TD><TD>vs. TB</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>7</TD><TD>Marques Colston</TD><TD>at SF</TD><TD>Probable(abdomen)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>8</TD><TD>Greg Jennings</TD><TD>vs. BUF</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>9</TD><TD>DeSean Jackson</TD><TD>at DET</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>10</TD><TD>Anquan Boldin</TD><TD>at CIN</TD><TD>Probable(thigh)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>11</TD><TD>Calvin Johnson</TD><TD>vs. PHI</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>12</TD><TD>Larry Fitzgerald</TD><TD>at ATL</TD><TD>Probable(knee)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>13</TD><TD>Chad Ochocinco</TD><TD>vs. BAL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>14</TD><TD>Hakeem Nicks</TD><TD>at IND</TD><TD>Probable(ankle)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>15</TD><TD>Wes Welker</TD><TD>at NYJ</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>16</TD><TD>Randy Moss</TD><TD>at NYJ</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>17</TD><TD>Hines Ward</TD><TD>at TEN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>18</TD><TD>Steve Smith</TD><TD>at IND</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>19</TD><TD>Michael Crabtree</TD><TD>vs. NO</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>20</TD><TD>Santana Moss</TD><TD>vs. HOU</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>21</TD><TD>Percy Harvin</TD><TD>vs. MIA</TD><TD>Questionable(hip)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>22</TD><TD>Dez Bryant</TD><TD>vs. CHI</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>23</TD><TD>Mike Sims-Walker</TD><TD>at SD</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>24</TD><TD>Dwayne Bowe</TD><TD>at CLE</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>25</TD><TD>Johnny Knox</TD><TD>at DAL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>26</TD><TD>Donald Driver</TD><TD>vs. BUF</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>27</TD><TD>Mike Wallace</TD><TD>at TEN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>28</TD><TD>Steve Breaston</TD><TD>at ATL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>29</TD><TD>Terrell Owens</TD><TD>vs. BAL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>30</TD><TD>Mike Williams</TD><TD>at CAR</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>31</TD><TD>Mike Williams</TD><TD>at DEN</TD><TD>Questionable(thigh)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>32</TD><TD>Jeremy Maclin</TD><TD>at DET</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>33</TD><TD>Eddie Royal</TD><TD>vs. SEA</TD><TD>Questionable(quadriceps)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>34</TD><TD>Malcom Floyd</TD><TD>vs. JAC</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>35</TD><TD>Pierre Garcon</TD><TD>vs. NYG</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>36</TD><TD>Austin Collie</TD><TD>vs. NYG</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>37</TD><TD>Devin Aromashodu</TD><TD>at DAL</TD><TD>Probable(knee)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>38</TD><TD>Mohamed Massaquoi</TD><TD>vs. KC</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>39</TD><TD>Lee Evans</TD><TD>at GB</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>40</TD><TD>Legedu Naanee</TD><TD>vs. JAC</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>41</TD><TD>Mark Clayton</TD><TD>at OAK</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>42</TD><TD>Bernard Berrian</TD><TD>vs. MIA</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>43</TD><TD>Jabar Gaffney</TD><TD>vs. SEA</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>44</TD><TD>Jerricho Cotchery</TD><TD>vs. NE</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>45</TD><TD>Derrick Mason</TD><TD>at CIN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>46</TD><TD>Mike Thomas</TD><TD>at SD</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>47</TD><TD>Danny Amendola</TD><TD>at OAK</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>48</TD><TD>Braylon Edwards</TD><TD>vs. NE</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>49</TD><TD>Louis Murphy</TD><TD>vs. STL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>50</TD><TD>Devin Hester</TD><TD>at DAL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>51</TD><TD>Robert Meachem</TD><TD>at SF</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>52</TD><TD>Jacoby Jones</TD><TD>at WAS</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>53</TD><TD>Chris Chambers</TD><TD>at CLE</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>54</TD><TD>Devery Henderson</TD><TD>at SF</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>55</TD><TD>Nate Washington</TD><TD>vs. PIT</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>56</TD><TD>Mario Manningham</TD><TD>at IND</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>57</TD><TD>Nate Burleson</TD><TD>vs. PHI</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>58</TD><TD>Kevin Walter</TD><TD>at WAS</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>59</TD><TD>Josh Morgan</TD><TD>vs. NO</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>60</TD><TD>Davone Bess</TD><TD>at MIN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>61</TD><TD>Greg Camarillo</TD><TD>vs. MIA</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>62</TD><TD>Deion Branch</TD><TD>at DEN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>63</TD><TD>Laurent Robinson</TD><TD>at OAK</TD><TD>Probable(ankle)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>64</TD><TD>Roy Williams</TD><TD>vs. CHI</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>65</TD><TD>Justin Gage</TD><TD>vs. PIT</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>66</TD><TD>T.J. Houshmandzadeh</TD><TD>at CIN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>67</TD><TD>Brandon Lloyd</TD><TD>vs. SEA</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>68</TD><TD>Deon Butler</TD><TD>at DEN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>69</TD><TD>Brandon Tate</TD><TD>at NYJ</TD><TD>- </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

Notes coming by Thursday evening, so check back.



[SIZE=+1]Week 2 Tight Ends[/SIZE]

<TABLE width="100%"><TBODY><TR class=TableTopRed><TD>Rank</TD><TD>Player Name</TD><TD>Opponent</TD><TD>Notes</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>1</TD><TD>Antonio Gates</TD><TD>vs. JAC</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>2</TD><TD>Dallas Clark</TD><TD>vs. NYG</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>3</TD><TD>Jermichael Finley</TD><TD>vs. BUF</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>4</TD><TD>Vernon Davis</TD><TD>vs. NO</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>5</TD><TD>Jason Witten</TD><TD>vs. CHI</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>6</TD><TD>Visanthe Shiancoe</TD><TD>vs. MIA</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>7</TD><TD>Brent Celek</TD><TD>at DET</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>8</TD><TD>Tony Gonzalez</TD><TD>vs. ARZ</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>9</TD><TD>Chris Cooley</TD><TD>vs. HOU</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>10</TD><TD>Zach Miller</TD><TD>vs. STL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>11</TD><TD>Kellen Winslow</TD><TD>at CAR</TD><TD>Probable(knee)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>12</TD><TD>Heath Miller</TD><TD>at TEN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>13</TD><TD>John Carlson</TD><TD>at DEN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>14</TD><TD>Dustin Keller</TD><TD>vs. NE</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>15</TD><TD>Owen Daniels</TD><TD>at WAS</TD><TD>Probable(knee)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>16</TD><TD>Tony Scheffler</TD><TD>vs. PHI</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>17</TD><TD>Todd Heap</TD><TD>at CIN</TD><TD>Probable(shoulder)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>18</TD><TD>Jermaine Gresham</TD><TD>vs. BAL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>19</TD><TD>Greg Olsen</TD><TD>at DAL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>20</TD><TD>Marcedes Lewis</TD><TD>at SD</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>21</TD><TD>Aaron Hernandez</TD><TD>at NYJ</TD><TD>Probable(knee)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>22</TD><TD>Jeremy Shockey</TD><TD>at SF</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>23</TD><TD>Ben Watson</TD><TD>vs. KC</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>24</TD><TD>Bo Scaife</TD><TD>vs. PIT</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>25</TD><TD>Rob Gronkowski</TD><TD>at NYJ</TD><TD>- </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

[SIZE=+1]Week 2 Team Defense[/SIZE]

<TABLE width="100%"><TBODY><TR class=TableTopRed><TD>Rank</TD><TD>Player Name</TD><TD>Opponent</TD><TD>Notes</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>1</TD><TD>Eagles Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at DET</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>2</TD><TD>Packers Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. BUF</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>3</TD><TD>Saints Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at SF</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>4</TD><TD>Cowboys Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. CHI</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>5</TD><TD>Jets Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. NE</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>6</TD><TD>Ravens Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at CIN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>7</TD><TD>Vikings Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. MIA</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>8</TD><TD>Steelers Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at TEN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>9</TD><TD>Dolphins Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at MIN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>10</TD><TD>Titans Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. PIT</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>11</TD><TD>Patriots Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at NYJ</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>12</TD><TD>Falcons Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. ARZ</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>13</TD><TD>Raiders Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. STL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>14</TD><TD>Panthers Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. TB</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>15</TD><TD>Bengals Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. BAL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>16</TD><TD>Chargers Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. JAC</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>17</TD><TD>Fortyniners Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. NO</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>18</TD><TD>Buccaneers Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at CAR</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>19</TD><TD>Rams Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at OAK</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>20</TD><TD>Cardinals Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at ATL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>21</TD><TD>Bears Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at DAL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>22</TD><TD>Chiefs Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at CLE</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>23</TD><TD>Texans Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at WAS</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>24</TD><TD>Redskins Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. HOU</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>25</TD><TD>Browns Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. KC</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>26</TD><TD>Colts Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. NYG</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>27</TD><TD>Seahawks Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at DEN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>28</TD><TD>Broncos Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. SEA</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>29</TD><TD>Giants Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at IND</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>30</TD><TD>Jaguars Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at SD</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>31</TD><TD>Lions Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. PHI</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>32</TD><TD>Bills Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at GB</TD><TD>- </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

[SIZE=+1]Week 2 Kickers[/SIZE]

<TABLE width="100%"><TBODY><TR class=TableTopRed><TD>Rank</TD><TD>Player Name</TD><TD>Opponent</TD><TD>Notes</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>1</TD><TD>Ryan Longwell</TD><TD>vs. MIA</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>2</TD><TD>David Akers</TD><TD>at DET</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>3</TD><TD>Nate Kaeding</TD><TD>vs. JAC</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>4</TD><TD>Stephen Gostkowski</TD><TD>at NYJ</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>5</TD><TD>Garrett Hartley</TD><TD>at SF</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>6</TD><TD>Rob Bironas</TD><TD>vs. PIT</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>7</TD><TD>Neil Rackers</TD><TD>at WAS</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>8</TD><TD>Robbie Gould</TD><TD>at DAL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>9</TD><TD>Mason Crosby</TD><TD>vs. BUF</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>10</TD><TD>Matt Prater</TD><TD>vs. SEA</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>11</TD><TD>Jeff Reed</TD><TD>at TEN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>12</TD><TD>John Kasay</TD><TD>vs. TB</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>13</TD><TD>Adam Vinatieri</TD><TD>vs. NYG</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>14</TD><TD>Sebastian Janikowski</TD><TD>vs. STL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>15</TD><TD>Dan Carpenter</TD><TD>at MIN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>16</TD><TD>Jay Feely</TD><TD>at ATL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>17</TD><TD>Lawrence Tynes</TD><TD>at IND</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>18</TD><TD>Olindo Mare</TD><TD>at DEN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>19</TD><TD>Josh Brown</TD><TD>at OAK</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>20</TD><TD>Joe Nedney</TD><TD>vs. NO</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>21</TD><TD>Graham Gano</TD><TD>vs. HOU</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>22</TD><TD>Matt Bryant</TD><TD>vs. ARZ</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>23</TD><TD>David Buehler</TD><TD>vs. CHI</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>24</TD><TD>Jason Hanson</TD><TD>vs. PHI</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>25</TD><TD>Nick Folk</TD><TD>vs. NE</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>26</TD><TD>Ryan Succop</TD><TD>at CLE</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>27</TD><TD>Mike Nugent</TD><TD>vs. BAL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>28</TD><TD>Josh Scobee</TD><TD>at SD</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>29</TD><TD>Billy Cundiff</TD><TD>at CIN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>30</TD><TD>Phil Dawson</TD><TD>vs. KC</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>31</TD><TD>Connor Barth</TD><TD>at CAR</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>32</TD><TD>Rian Lindell</TD><TD>at GB</TD><TD>- </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

HacheMan · Sep 17, 2010

Matchups: The New 3-Down Back
A surprise early entrant into the '07 draft, Brandon Jackson was never a full-time starter in college. He shared the Nebraska backfield as a third-year junior with onetime Bengals camp body Marlon Lucky, averaging a solid 5.3 yards per carry with ten all-purpose touchdowns but seeing 18 fewer carries than Lucky in the 2006 Cotton Bowl -- the Cornhuskers' biggest game of the season. Jets offensive line coach Bill Callahan was Nebraska's head coach at the time. Jackson was deemed a lesser talent than Marlon Lucky by a respected NFL mind.

Jackson ran a 4.57 forty at the 2007 Combine. Here's a selection from my notes on Jackson prior to the draft:

Horn Lake, Mississippi ... Committee with Lucky ... 989-5.3-8 RUSH, 33-313-9.5-2 REC ... Didn't start Cotton Bowl, came off bench for 7-38-1 RUSH, 2-0 REC ... Pretty well built, at least (5'11/210) ... Second-day pick ... Missed time in 2005 with shoulder injury ... Also 2006 spring practice with shoulder ... Some history on kick returns but nothing spectacular.

Packers GM Ted Thompson panicked on draft weekend that year after missing out on his prized pick -- Marshawn Lynch. Thompson believed Lynch would surely drop to Green Bay at No. 16, but Buffalo snagged him 12th overall. The Packers reached for Justin Harrell at 16, and reached again for Jackson at 63. Thus began perhaps the worst draft of Thompson's tenure.

In his fourth NFL season, Jackson averages 3.9 career yards per carry. Fantasy owners aren't getting a marquee talent. What they're getting is an every-down back for perhaps the best offense in football, who's in a contract year. Jackson has never been more motivated. He's also never looked so good (4.6 preseason YPC). Ryan Grant, benched and converted to fullback at Notre Dame, has already proven that running backs don't require elite talent to be top-20 fantasy players in the Green Bay offense. Jackson must consistently produce to prevent Thompson from going outside the organization for his next Grant. But the opportunity is now for Jackson to be it.

[SIZE=+1]1:00PM ET Games[/SIZE]

Baltimore @ Cincinnati

Holding the Jets to 176 yards of Week 1 offense (only the Bills and Lions had fewer), Baltimore's front seven is meaner and fresher than ever. It's been argued by some that Cedric Benson is a strong fantasy play because he poured 117-plus rushing yards on the Ravens in each of their 2009 meetings. Note that those efforts came when Cincinnati's offensive line was actually playing well. The first was against a Ravens defense coming off an extremely hard-fought 27-21 loss to the Patriots in Week 5. Benson was fresh off his Week 8 bye for the second. I'm not saying to bench Benson, but he's far from the sure thing he's been made out to be in some circles.

Chad Ochocinco tweet this week: "Ravens defense on film is awesome, seems as if it's more than 11 people on field." To be sure, a date with Mark Sanchez is what the doctor ordered for a banged-up pass defense. But Baltimore's secondary is in a lot better shape than expected. Now getting back top CB Lardarius Webb, and with CB Josh Wilson benefiting from another week in the scheme, don't expect carryover from Carson Palmer's garbage-time Week 1 stats. In Cincy, this game will be much closer than last week's blowout. Terrell Owens and Ocho are worthwhile WR2/3s, but Palmer isn't going to be in the throw-crazed two-minute offense as he was for much of last Sunday.

Apologies for the negativity -- this game just doesn't project to be high scoring. Greg Mattison's defense has already proved season-ready, and Mike Zimmer's Bengals are too well-coached with too much talent to defend as poorly as they did in Foxboro. Rain and possible T-Storms are also in Sunday's forecast for Paul Brown Stadium. That said, if you're willing to take seriously 2009 stats when setting 2010 lineups (as many will do with Benson), Ray Rice is a top-five RB1. He poured 278 total yards and two TDs on Cincinnati last year. The Bengals lack speed on the edge to halt Rice on the perimeter, and the possible absence of WLB Keith Rivers (foot) can't hurt.

Joe Flacco is coming into his own. In a Brady-esque performance, Flacco exploited matchups to deliver Baltimore its Week 1 win. Completely avoiding Darrelle Revis' side, Flacco relentlessly pegged Kyle Wilson and Antonio Cromartie to produce big plays (and penalties). The Bengals are a tough matchup, but Flacco's development is enlightening. ... T.J. Houshmandzadeh (four Week 1 targets, one catch) is not a threat to Anquan Boldin as Baltimore's No. 1 receiver. Housh will be a drain on Derrick Mason, and eventually Todd Heap. With Heap (shoulder) already banged up and Mason-Housh canceling each other out, Boldin is destined for borderline WR1 production.

Miami @ Minnesota

Perhaps Bernard Berrian will be a player again someday, but it's getting hard to fathom. On the field for all 29 Brett Favre drop-backs last week, Berrian produced three yards on three targets. Observers might've noticed Favre rarely even giving Berrian a legitimate read in his progressions. ... Until they fix their line (or trade for Vincent Jackson), the Vikings' passing game will have to throw short to move the chains. Week 1 target leader Visanthe Shiancoe is a worthwhile TE1, while Percy Harvin projects to get more balls at his natural slot position with Greg Camarillo playing increased flanker snaps. Unfortunately, Harvin appears to be questionable for Week 2 with a hip injury. If he plays, he's a high-upside WR3. Shiancoe will be a must-start if Harvin sits.

Running as hard as ever, Adrian Peterson averaged 4.6 yards per carry in the opener despite few holes. He would've had 104 yards on 20 carries had a holding call on Shiancoe not negated a first-quarter 17-yard burst. The Dolphins defended the run well last week, but they were playing the laughable Bills, who only ran 14 times. Miami's loss of first-round DE Jared Odrick (broken leg) certainly won't hurt A.P. ... Starting Favre is risky after his 171-yard opener, but this remains a shaky Dolphins pass defense. RCB Jason Allen is a long bomb waiting to happen, and Favre will be better after a long week of practice. He was too rusty to open the season last Thursday night.

Once a staple of Dan Henning's offense, two-tight end sets made just four appearances in the Fins' opener. In their place are three-receiver formations, allowing Davone Bess to settle into the slot rather than outside, where he is severely outmatched (and oddly played often in 2009). With flanker Brian Hartline struggling, Bess is easily the Fins' best bet for catches and targets behind Brandon Marshall. ... Marshall, by the way, definitely will catch 100 balls again. He saw 13 targets against a magnificent Bills secondary in Week 1. Marshall caught eight and narrowly missed a 9-107-1 line, had it not been for an underthrow from Chad Henne on an open 54-yard TD chance.

Ronnie Brown looked terrific in Miami's opener, averaging 5.7 yards per touch and scoring from a yard out to cap a second-quarter drive that saw Ricky Williams get the previous carry. (Hint: Brown is the favorite for goal-line work.) But there are reasons to consider benching Brown this week. The first is obvious: a Minnesota run defense that hasn't ranked worse than second in the NFL since 2005. Secondly, Ricky received 18 carries to Brown's 13 in Week 1, indicating that the Fins may be "easing in" Brown after Lisfranc surgery. Use the Dolphins' backs at your own risk.

Pittsburgh @ Tennessee

Pittsburgh's loss of LT Max Starks (ankle) will further deflate Dennis Dixon's ability to go vertical. Starks and the rest of the line were abused by Falcons DEs John Abraham and Kroy Biermann in the opener, as deep threat Mike Wallace managed just two catches. Keep Wallace benched against a Titans team that reeled off four Week 1 sacks, forced two fumbles, and may get back bull-rushing LE William Hayes (knee). ... It all adds up to a plus matchup for possession wideout Hines Ward, coming off a six-catch, 108-yard opener. Typically the Steelers' RWR and flanker, Ward should face off mostly with LCB Jason McCourty instead of Pro Bowler Cortland Finnegan.

According to Pro Football Focus, Rashard Mendenhall broke eight tackles to generate a whopping 79 yards after contact in Week 1. Running more decisively than ever, Mendenhall is an easy RB1 against a Titans defense that served up 150 opening-day yards to Darren McFadden. ... Heath Miller had four grabs for 40 yards last week, but figures to take on more blocking assignments given the Starks-less state of Pittsburgh's front five. Miller offers very little upside.

The Titans are serious about not limiting Chris Johnson's workload. Across the league, only Arian Foster touched the ball more last week. CJ2K's matchup is improved by the expected absence of Steelers NT Casey Hampton (hamstring), whose backup is 34-year-old Chris Hoke. ... With Kenny Britt and Justin Gage combining for one target and zero catches in the opener, it's clear that Nate Washington is the heavy favorite for receiving yards in Tennessee. Washington still qualifies as a strong WR4 or bye-week filler, as opposed to a true WR3. The Titans just don't sling it enough.

Oakland sold out to stop the Titans' ground game in Week 1. It worked, except for on CJ2K's 76-yard second-quarter score. Though Vince Young benefited with a pair of TD passes and 30 rush yards, it's not like Tennessee gave him the green light, finishing with a 39:17 run-pass ratio. V.Y. will have to be awfully good on limited attempts to sustain fantasy value as a passer. Now, he faces Dick LeBeau's Steelers defense for the first time in his career. Pittsburgh held Matt Ryan touchdown-less in Week 1. ... Avoid Britt and Gage, and the rotating Titans tight ends. Bo Scaife is splitting time with Craig Stevens, and the Steelers held Tony Gonzalez to two catches.

Buffalo @ Green Bay

Apparently attempting to recreate the brief success he enjoyed with Tyler Thigpen as the 2008 Chiefs' offensive coordinator, Bills coach Chan Gailey unearthed the Pistol Spread in Week 1. Buffalo played the vast majority of the game in the shotgun. Unfortunately, Trent Edwards isn't nearly as aggressive as Thigpen, and the 2010 Bills don't have Tony Gonzalez or Dwayne Bowe. Steve Johnson was the receiving leader with three grabs for 40 yards. Lee Evans' seven targets led the team, but he generated 34 yards. Avoid Buffalo's passing game regardless of matchup.

The Bills' ground "attack" is in even more dire straits. Despite retaining Marshawn Lynch amid numerous trade offers, starting injured Fred Jackson, and using the 9th overall draft pick on C.J. Spiller, the Bills ran 14 times compared to 39 passes in a close opener. Buffalo's coaching staff clearly has no idea what it's doing. The Bills' first play of Week 1? A pass to Jackson, and a predictable drop with the running back donning a protective device on his broken hand. It's early, but the Bills could probably find better playcalling at an Idaho bed-and-breakfast. Avoid this team.

Buffalo hasn't fixed its defense, either. After finishing 30th against the run in 2009, the Bills gave up 165 yards and a touchdown to Miami's running backs in Week 1, with Ronnie Brown's robust 5.0 per-carry average leading the way. Brandon Jackson would normally be a "wait-and-see" play in his first start since Week 3 of 2007, but you'll want to use him. ... It doesn't hurt, of course, that Bills top run defender Paul Posluszny (MCL sprain) is out, and his backup, Kawika Mitchell, is on injured reserve. Expect a big-time workload for the Week 2 waiver-wire darling.

Jermichael Finley's 2010 season started slowly (4-47) with Philadelphia relentlessly doubling him, and Greg Jennings (5-82-1) capitalizing outside. He'll get on track. Last year, Finley played in 66.1 percent of Green Bay's snaps in the final eight regular season games, yet still led the team in targets, receiving yards, and touchdowns. This year, he's ticketed for 85-90 percent of the snaps. Finley's explosion is coming. ... Aaron Rodgers and Jennings are matchup-proof fantasy starters. Keep them going. ... Donald Driver, however, is a low-upside play this week. Green Bay is likely to run more than pass, and Driver relies on volume more than the Packers' truer big-play threats.



Kansas City @ Cleveland

After a 12-touch opener, Jamaal Charles owners are wondering: Will he be getting the ball more? The answer certainly is YES, though the question is irrelevant for Week 2. Charles turned those 12 touches into 100 total yards and a touchdown, and now squares off with a Browns team he lit up for 170 yards and a score last season. Cleveland is also expected to be without DL Shaun Rogers (ankle, hip), who according to Pro Football Focus graded out as the team's best lineman in Week 1. ... The Chiefs' favorite for inside carries remains nominal starter Thomas Jones, who averaged 3.3 yards per touch compared to Charles' 8.3 last Monday night. Jones isn't an option.

The Chiefs' passing game got off to a disturbingly slow start, producing 68 yards through the air against a beatable Chargers secondary in Week 1. Hard rain and a run-first mindset played roles, of course, but Dwayne Bowe refused to fight for in-traffic passes, and had a pair of drops. Don't rely on him yet as more than a WR3. ... Chris Chambers, struggling to separate, was even less visible than Bowe, and was out-produced by rookie TE Tony Moeaki. Until Matt Cassel shows he can consistently complete passes into tight windows -- which may never happen -- Chambers is hands-off in fantasy. Though extremely injury prone at Iowa, Moeaki is a terrific Dynasy stash.

Drawing the Week 1 start and seeing 13 touches to Jerome Harrison's 10, Peyton Hillis emerged as the top fantasy play in Cleveland's backfield. Harrison was also yanked in the red zone after his lone big play of the game -- a 39-yard carry -- in favor of Hillis, who promptly scored a 10-yard touchdown. Not only is Hillis the favorite for touches, he's the heavy favorite for goal-line carries. He's a sneaky flex in Week 2 against a Chiefs defense that will be minus mammoth DE Tyson Jackson (knee). ... Harrison lit up K.C. for an NFL-record 286 rushing yards in Week 15 last year, but the coaching staff clearly sees him as a mere changeup back. Use him at your own risk.

It's too early to call K.C.'s defense legit, but much-improved play from DE Glenn Dorsey and ILB Derrick Johnson, in addition to constant double teams drawn by OLB Tamba Hali in Week 1 leave room for hope. They'll look even better against a Browns offense that plans to either start a hobbled Jake Delhomme (ankle) at quarterback, or scrambler Seneca Wallace. Wallace, the probable favorite to start, can create with his legs at times, but this will continue to be a passing offense to avoid outside of split end Mohamed Massaquoi. Massaquoi, likely to mostly face off with RCB Brandon Carr -- the weaker of Kansas City's young corner duo -- is a worthwhile WR3.

Tampa Bay @ Carolina

With their QB coming off a concussion and miserable first start, the Panthers undoubtedly will renew their run-heavy approach versus a Bucs team against whom they rang up 424 rush yards in two 2009 meetings. Jonathan Stewart's five-carry opener was incredibly disappointing, but he should resume hovering around 12-15 touches and deserves consideration as a flex (not low-end RB2). Carolina's clear-cut feature back in the opener, DeAngelo Williams is confidently an RB1.

I'd normally call a Steve Smith-Aqib Talib matchup worth avoiding in fantasy leagues. Talib, used to "shadow" No. 1 wideouts in 2009, held Smitty to just four receiving yards in Week 5 last year. Whether the Bucs continue to employ the cover scheme while reverting to Raheem Morris' Tampa-2 style remains to be seen, however. And with Smith coming off a terrific 75-yard, one-touchdown opener, he can't be benched. Morris may take a page out of Rex Ryan's book, keeping Talib only on his natural left side in his first game back from suspension. A split end, Smith usually lines up on the opposite end.

Rookie Mike Williams is the real deal, already appearing to overtake Kellen Winslow as Tampa Bay's top receiver. Williams immediately assumed the team's target lead in Week 1, seeing nine (Winslow was next with six) and just narrowly missing out on a six-catch, two-touchdown game, if not for Josh Freeman overthrowing the open first-year wideout for a 33-yard score in the fourth quarter. Carolina, breaking in a new free safety and nickel back, let the Giants go for 8.8 yards per pass attempt and three Eli Manning TDs last Sunday. Williams is a legit every-week WR3.

Freeman continues to progress, though he's only a moderate two-QB league play until he gets over his preseason thumb fracture. Until his accuracy improves, he's a better bet to hit Williams for run-after-catch opportunities than on the fly. ... Carolina's Cover 2 isn't designed to run plug, but the unit came to play in Week 1. Holding Ahmad Bradshaw and Brandon Jacobs to 3.75 YPC combined, the Panthers quietly present a tough matchup for Cadillac Williams. And with the Bucs vowing to increase their other running backs' roles, Williams is only a low-end RB2/flex in this one.

Philadelphia @ Detroit

The loss of Matthew Stafford (shoulder) deals a huge blow to Detroit's big-play potential, as the drop-off in arm strength to Shaun Hill is dramatic. But let's not forecast a disappointing year for Calvin Johnson just yet. In Week 1, Megatron was sitting on one target and zero catches prior to Stafford's second-quarter injury. Johnson finished with 10 targets, four grabs and 45 yards, and would've had a 5-70-1 line had his late-game 25-yard touchdown been ruled a catch. Nate Burleson (four targets, one reception) likely is a lost cause. Megatron is an every-week starter.

Despite a run-heavy game plan (as confirmed publicly by Calvin Johnson), catch-first TE Tony Scheffler played over half of Detroit's Week 1 snaps -- something he did just twice all last year in Denver -- and led the Lions in targets. He's on the cusp of TE1 value. ... Jahvid Best's two Week 1 TDs could be construed as fluky considering he totaled 36 yards, but the seven- and four-yard scores were confirmation that he is Detroit's red-zone back. Best's matchup is also improved by the absence of MLB Stewart Bradley (concussion), without whom Philadelphia's run defense looked lost against Green Bay. Overmatched substitute Omar Gaither is Bradley's replacement.

The Detroit front seven isn't a joke anymore, as it proved in an at-times dominant Week 1 effort at Chicago. The Lions still let Matt Forte ring up 201 yards and two scores, though, and now face an invigorated LeSean McCoy. Finally exhibiting decisiveness inside the tackles, McCoy averaged 5.0 yards per carry in Week 1 against a Green Bay club that led the league in run defense last year. Also receiving red-zone carries over Mike Bell, McCoy will be relied upon more heavily with Kevin Kolb (concussion) out. McCoy is a serious threat for 150 total yards and a touchdown.

Kolb may get his job back when healthy, but Michael Vick can toughen Andy Reid's decision in a prime matchup against the NFL's worst secondary. With 100 rushing yards always possible, he's a top-ten QB1. ... Vick's insertion doesn't doom Philly's other skill players, and he'll be an upgrade if you consider how inept Kolb appeared. There are positives all around: Vick has always loved throwing to tight ends, dating back to Alge Crumpler (Brent Celek); Vick is an aggressive and big-armed, if inaccurate passer (DeSean Jackson); and Vick completed his lone TD to Jeremy Maclin against Green Bay. Vick's targets in Week 1: Jackson 7, Jason Avant 7, Maclin 4, Celek 3.

Chicago @ Dallas

The Bears have problems at left tackle. Chris Williams' poor preseason carried over into Week 1, as he was regularly dominated by Kyle Vanden Bosch (game-high 11 tackles) and served up a sack to Turk McBride. With DeMarcus Ware on tap, it's a wait-and-see week for Jay Cutler and the Bears' deep passing game, despite a 372-yard opener. This one has potential for disaster, and deep threat Johnny Knox's primary cover man will be Dallas RCB Mike Jenkins. In Week 1, Knox managed 52 yards against Lions RCB Chris Houston. Jenkins is way better than Houston.

Matt Forte is filling the "Marshall Faulk role" for Mike Martz, and executing brilliantly. Forte caught two touchdowns in Week 1, the first on an 89-yard screen, and the second after Forte beat Julian Peterson on a long 28-yard fade. Forte got 24 touches last Sunday, and will be difficult to bench regardless of matchups. ... Devin Aromashodu, who led the team with ten targets against Detroit, is the Bears receiver to use in this one. He's playing often in the slot, and Cutler will struggle to go vertical at Dallas. Devin Hester (one Week 1 target) and Greg Olsen (37 yards) are bench fodder.

If you didn't catch my drift, I really like the Dallas defense this week. Martz can't help himself from taking deep shots, and DeMarcus Ware and Anthony Spencer will make him pay. ... The Cowboys' running game should be avoided until further notice. Bears MLB Brian Urlacher was among the NFL's most dominant Week 1 defenders, and Dallas' carry split was as follows at Washington: Marion Barber 8-39, Felix Jones 8-38, Tashard Choice 5-18. Barber is the best bet if you're desperate for a flex or low-end RB2, but the workloads are too muddled for any reliability.

Poor playcalling from Jason Garrett mixed with Alex Barron's ineptness resulted in a disappointing Week 1 for Tony Romo. Don't despair. Rather than win, Garrett's priority appeared to be to "break in" Dez Bryant, while taking shots to only Miles Austin. It was an odd, horizontal attack from a Don Coryell disciple. Expect more aggression against a Bears defense that generated no Week 1 push aside from Julius Peppers while playing musical chairs at safety. You already know Austin is a WR1. The Bears let Tony Scheffler loose for six catches last Sunday, boding well for Jason Witten. Bryant (13 Week 1 targets) is an every-week WR3. Roy Williams is bench material.



Arizona @ Atlanta

The Atlanta front five was bullied by the Pittsburgh front seven in Week 1, with only Roddy White emerging for a big fantasy day. And boy did he. Seeing a league-high 21 targets, White hauled in 13 balls for 111 yards, good for 24.1-point week in PPR. Expect it to keep up. White quietly tied Andre Johnson for second in the NFL in 2009 targets. The Falcons move him around constantly, so White will see just as much of Cardinals RCB Greg Toler as he does LCB Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie. ... The Steelers kept Tony Gonzalez quiet last week, but expect a rebound. With SS Adrian Wilson often selling out to blitz, the Cards let Rams tight ends catch eight balls in Week 1.

Matt Ryan, scoreless in the opener, returns home as just barely a top-12 QB. Though Pittsburgh's defense is better than Arizona's, Ryan led the Falcons deep into Steelers territory just once in Week 1 on the heels of a totally uninspiring preseason. ... On the other hand, Michael Turner falls into the category of slow starters who are primed to bounce back. The Falcons' offensive line does have the edge on the Cardinals' front seven in terms of run blocking versus run defense, as DE Darnell Dockett and LB Joey Porter are weak in setting the edge. Turner will be just fine.

At least the targets are there. The intended receiver on 15 of Derek Anderson's 41 throws in Week 1, Larry Fitzgerald managed to catch just three. One went for a 21-yard touchdown, of course, and he's always had a knack for scoring. Fitz led the NFL in per-week touchdown rate among non-running backs last season, and has double-digit TDs in three straight years. You can't bench him. ... Beanie Wells' start-ability is very much touch-and-go. He's not 100 percent, but is expected to play against Atlanta. Ideally, you'll wait until he's at full strength to use him.

With Anderson and Fitz struggling to connect, Steve Breaston capitalized against the Rams with a 7-132 line. Things certainly are breaking right for the first-year starter. Already D.A.'s favorite underneath receiver, Breaston's targets and snaps will rise with Early Doucet (sports hernia) out indefinitely. Breaston is an every-week starter. ... Consider grabbing undrafted, if high-upside rookie Stephen Williams in 12-team leagues. Moving into the third receiver role, Williams will play in all three-plus wideout sets. It's the formation Anderson had the most success with in Week 1.

[SIZE=+1]4:05PM ET Games[/SIZE]

St. Louis @ Oakland

Coming soon.

Seattle @ Denver

Coming soon.

[SIZE=+1]4:15PM ET Games[/SIZE]

Houston @ Washington

Coming soon.



Jacksonville @ San Diego

Coming soon.

New England @ NY Jets

Coming soon.

[SIZE=+1]Sunday Night Football[/SIZE]

NY Giants @ Indianapolis

You already knew Dallas Clark's 11-catch opener wasn't a fluke. Austin Collie wasn't either. With pass protection reaching new lows in Indy, Peyton Manning will have to rely on his possession receivers more than ever. Not only did Collie burn Houston relentlessly in the slot (12 targets, 11 catches), he busted a zone coverage for a fourth-quarter 73-yard score, outracing Bernard Pollard to the house. Collie's snaps are not threatened by Anthony Gonzalez (already hurt), and he'll regularly be a better week-to-week fantasy bet than Pierre Garcon. Think 2004 Brandon Stokley (68/1,077/10, No. 11 fantasy receiver). The Colts' protection issues aren't going to fix themselves.

Of course, Reggie Wayne will still get his because Indy can't run block either, and will have to go pass happy yet again. Week 2 offers a favorable matchup for Wayne. The Giants used Terrell Thomas on Carolina's Steve Smith for the majority of the opener, and Smitty worked Thomas for 75 yards and a TD on five grabs. Split ends who occasionally move to the slot, Wayne and Smith play identical positions. Smith, by the way, scored his 19-yard Week 1 TD on a slot route vs. Thomas. Look for more of that for Wayne in Week 2. ... Consider benching Joseph Addai. The Giants' run defense is back, holding Carolina's RBs to 3.5 YPC and no touchdowns last week.

Giants coming soon.

HacheMan · Sep 18, 2010

Welcome Back
Just like fantasy owners, NFL franchises make crucial decisions all the time. This offseason, the Eagles chose to trade away Donovan McNabb so they could move forward with their "quarterback of the future," Kevin Kolb. It was an epic move, one that they surely didn't take lightly.

Whether that decision was correct remains to be seen. But at this point, the Eagles have to stick with it. The speculation that Michael Vick can nail down the starting job with a good performance against the Lions Sunday is misguided. Can Vick make Kolb's leash shorter? Of course. But the Eagles need to see what they have in Kolb, even if Vick gives them a better chance to win this year.

I expect Kolb (concussion) to get at least four games to run this team once he's healthy, even if Vick guides the Eagles to a 49-0 win in Detroit. Fantasy owners should not be dropping Kolb, and Vick owners should not be counting on him as their QB1 for the duration of the season. Kolb will be given a fair shake.

Of course, the biggest mistake the Eagles made was keeping Vick around in the first place. When developing a young quarterback, the last thing you need is a three-time Pro Bowl backup that is a lightning rod for controversy behind him. That was a bad decision. We're here to keep you from pulling an Andy Reid this week. Use the Week 2 rankings from Gregg Rosenthal in combination with Evan Silva's matchup column and you'll be good to go.

I've got you covered with all the latest injury news right here.

Also be sure to check the Rotoworld News Page all morning on Sunday for the latest news on injuries and inactives.

Editor's Note: For early rankings every Tuesday morning, tons of exclusive columns, subscriber-only chats, full projections updated all week and much more, get our award-winning Season Pass.

<BIG>1 P.M. GAMES</BIG>
TEXANS at REDSKINS
* Owen Daniels (knee) was a limited participant in each practice this week. We'd still leave him on benches for now if you can.
* Donovan McNabb (ankle) was slapped with a "questionable" tag, but he's certain to start. McNabb practiced in full every day this week.
* Clinton Portis (wrist) will also play, but it's almost painful to watch him run.

BILLS at PACKERS
* N/A

DOLPHINS at VIKINGS
* Percy Harvin (hip) is fully expected to play and reportedly is a major part of the game plan. Look for a bounce-back game after last Thursday's ugly opener.

CHIEFS at BROWNS
* Jake Delhomme (ankle) will not play. Seneca Wallace may be a better playmaker anyway.

STEELERS at TITANS
* Emmanuel Sanders (quad) won't go. Antonio Brown will be the Steelers' primary returner.

BEARS at COWBOYS
N/A

EAGLES at LIONS
* Kevin Kolb (concussion) is out. Michael Vick gets his first start since 2006 and is a QB1 option.
* Matthew Stafford (shoulder) is out. Shaun Hill is starting, but Calvin Johnson should still be in all lineups.

CARDINALS at FALCONS
* Beanie Wells (knee) will likely be a game-time decision, but don't expect a big role even if he's active. Leave Beanie on the bench.
* Larry Fitzgerald (knee) took it a little easy in practice this week, and that's a good thing. He's a must start.
* Michael Jenkins (shoulder) is out again. Harry Douglas will start, but hasn't shown anything yet. Roddy White should lead the league in targets for the second straight week.

BUCS at PANTHERS
* Matt Moore (concussion) will start.
* Kareem Huggins (groin) didn't practice this week and is unlikely to play. Deep leaguers shouldn't give up yet, but Huggins' will likely need a Cadillac Williams injury to be relevant any time soon.
* Brandon LaFell (hamstring) was downgraded from probable to questionable on Saturday. He's waiver wire fodder except for in the deepest of leagues.

RAVENS at BENGALS
* Todd Heap (shoulder) is expected to play but may be limited. Avoid him.
* Andre Caldwell (groin) is listed as probable, but his role is unclear. Jordan Shipley is the every-down slot receiver.

Editor's Note: Pick a new fantasy team just for today and win real cash with Snapdraft!

<BIG>4 P.M. GAMES</BIG>
SEAHAWKS at BRONCOS
* Eddie Royal (quad) will play and is a very solid play in PPR formats.
* Mike Williams (thigh) will play, but is a weak option against Denver's plus secondary.
* Rookie Demaryius Thomas (foot) could make his NFL debut. Don't chase Brandon Lloyd's stats from last week.
* Newly acquired Laurence Maroney (thigh) is out. Knowshon Moreno is healthy and a fine RB2 play regardless.

RAMS at RAIDERS
* Steven Jackson (knee) practiced in full on Thursday and Friday. He's a RB1 in a great matchup.
* Laurent Robinson (ankle) is good to go, but don't use him in fantasy. He'll have Nnamdi Asomugha on him.
* Michael Bush (thumb) is technically a game-time decision, but is not expected to play. It's safe to use Darren McFadden as a high-quality RB2.

PATRIOTS at JETS
* Julian Edelman (ankle) is a game-time decision. Either way, you shouldn't be using him or Brandon Tate in this poor matchup.

JAGUARS at CHARGERS
* David Garrard (back) paid a visit to the chiropractor and is ready to go.

<BIG>SUNDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL</BIG>
GIANTS at COLTS
* Hakeem Nicks (ankle) is expected to play, but it's not a certainty yet. Owners should grab backup Mario Manningham just in case they need to make a last-minute switch around 7 p.m. ET Sunday.
* Kevin Boss (concussion) is out. Travis Beckum will get the nod on passing downs, but isn't on the fantasy radar.
* Anthony Gonzalez (ankle) is out. Austin Collie is a solid PPR option regardless.

<BIG>MONDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL</BIG>
SAINTS at 49ERS
* Ted Ginn (knee) is out. Josh Morgan gets a boost in return-yardage leagues.

SURVIVOR PICK
Last week in this space, I recommended the Giants and said to stay away from the Chargers. Every dog has his day. This week, I'm using the Packers. The Raiders are a risky but decent pick for those that want to save Green Bay. I'd be hesitant to use the Eagles or Falcons.

MY TOUGHEST DECISION OF THE WEEK
In the SOFA industry league, my flex spot came down to Pierre Thomas vs. Darren McFadden (Arian Foster and Rashard Mendenhall are my starting backs). In a rare move, I chose to go against the rankings and use McFadden. It's a full PPR league and I expect the Raiders to come out extremely strong in their home opener. McFadden should have no trouble eclipsing five catches and 100 total yards. Benching Thomas is brutal, but considering the road spot and the Ninersâ€™ run defense, it's a move I'm willing to roll the dice on. Sometimes, you have to go with your gut.

HacheMan · Sep 20, 2010

MRI Monday
Unlike some NFL teams, I'm a strong believer in fully disclosing injuries, so I'll come right out and say that I entered Week 2 dealing with a sore left knee and bruised right thumb sustained in a rec league hoops game last week. I am, however, listed as "probable" to finish this column, so let's get right to the roundup of Sunday's injuries:

INJURY: Texans WR Andre Johnson, ankle

IMPACT: The positive news here is that Johnson (12-158-1) wasn't visibly hindered while playing through his injury. The disconcerting development is that the top fantasy wideout is headed for an MRI on Monday. Before you panic, Johnson offered these words of relief: "I don't think it's anything real bad. I think I should be fine next week." There remains a risk that the ankle swells up or that the MRI unexpectedly reveals something serious, but for now, I'm inclined to take A.J. at his word and remain optimistic that we'll see him in action next week.

INJURY: Chargers RB Ryan Mathews, ankle

IMPACT: Mathews was carted off in the first quarter (five rushes, 26 yards; two catches, 29 yards; one lost fumble) and couldn't put any weight on the hobbled leg as he left. However, a report from NFL Network's Jason La Canfora late Sunday night indicated that the injury isn't believed to be significant and Mathews could play in Week 3. Should the rookie sit, Mike Tolbert (16 carries, 82 yards, two TD's) becomes a strong play off the waiver wire, while Darren Sproles (five carries, 37 yards; four catches, 63 yards) remains more of a change-of-pace back with considerably more value in return yardage leagues.

INJURY: Falcons RB Michael Turner, groin

IMPACT: Groin injuries have a tendency to linger, but all signs indicate that this one is minor, with no sign being more clear than Falcons coach Mike Smith telling the Atlanta Journal-Constitution that Turner "was cleared to go back in [on Sunday]." Quite simply, it appears that the Falcons decided to play it safe with Turner (nine carries, 75 yards) because the Cardinals were about as menacing as Petey the headless parakeet from Dumb and Dumber in a 41-7 loss.

With that said, cautious fantasy owners may want to put in a claim for Jason Snelling, who blew up for 186 total yards (129 rushing, 57 receiving) and three scores in The Burner's absence. Turner looks likely to return in Week 3, but with Jerious Norwood (knee) injured on Sunday as well, Snelling would be in line for a huge role should Turner suffer any kind of setback.

INJURY: Vikings WR Percy Harvin, hip

IMPACT: Harvin told 1500 ESPN Twin Cities after the loss to Miami that he knew he wasn't at full speed coming into Sunday, and actually expected his hip to tighten up during the game. Though Harvin got off to a fast start (five catches for 32 yards in the first quarter), his hip did eventually send him to the sidelines, and he admits that "I kind of forced my way back on the field a little bit" toward the end of the game. Harvin will undergo an MRI on Monday, and even if it does come back clean, he looks like a risky play heading into Week 3.

INJURY: Cowboys TE Jason Witten, concussion

IMPACT: Witten (five catches, 51 yards) left in the fourth quarter after taking a hard hit, then vehemently attempted to talk his way back into the game. Unfortunately for him, a concussion – regardless of the severity – doesn't bode well for suiting up the following week, meaning that Martellus Bennett (seven catches, 45 yards) could be in line for a start in Week 3.

INJURY: Panthers WR Steve Smith, wrist

IMPACT: According to the Gaston Gazette, Smith (3-66-1) had X-rays on his wrist after Sunday's game, but there were no breaks revealed and indications are he'll be ready to go next week. Cue sigh of relief.

Editor's note: Check out our Season Pass package, featuring IDP rankings, Top 200 rankings, Evan Silva's running back report, Ryan Boyer's Wide Receiver Report, Chris Wesseling's Dynasty advice, advance workload and target data, exclusive chats, and schedule analysis you can only get with Season Pass.

INJURY: Steelers QB Dennis Dixon, knee/pride

IMPACT: Dixon was having a rather ghastly day (18 yards passing, 28 yards rushing, two fumbles, one lost) before leaving in the second quarter with a left knee sprain. Dixon tore his left ACL while in college, but according to Profootballtalk.com, he actually could have returned Sunday if the Steelers wanted to use him. The QB situation for next week is unclear, but it wouldn't be a surprise to see Charlie Batch or Byron Leftwich start even if Dixon is healthy enough to play.

INJURY: Redskins LT Trent Williams, ankle/knee

IMPACT: Redskins insider Chris Russell reports that Williams doesn't believe his leg injury is "major," but the standout rookie left tackle is slated for a Monday MRI nonetheless. Losing Williams would be bad news for the Redskins offense on the whole, so this is an injury worth watching closely as Week 2 transitions into Week 3.

INJURY: Jets DB Darrelle Revis, hamstring

IMPACT: Add Revis to the list of notable players headed for an MRI on Monday. He told the Newark Star-Ledger that he doesn't have a pull or a tear, but this lingering hamstring trouble bodes well for top Dolpins wideout Brandon Marshall in his Week 3 matchup with the Jets.

INJURY: Broncos DB Champ Bailey, ankle

IMPACT: Bailey left the stadium on crutches Sunday, and according to the Denver Post, there's a "good chance" the Broncos' shutdown corner won't be playing in Week 3. That's bad news for Denver, but great news for Reggie Wayne and the rest of the Colts' passing attack. Bailey made Mike Sims-Walker (no catches Week 1) and Seattle Mike Williams (one catch, seven yards on Sunday) disappear from the stat sheet the past two weeks, and as this column has reached its logical conclusion, I shall now follow suit and disappear as well.

HacheMan · Sep 20, 2010

Quarterback Carousel
Ten backup quarterbacks -- nearly a third of the league -- saw action in place of the starters on Sunday. Of those ten, at least a handful of those could be considered brewing controversies heading into Week 3. In order of fantasy relevance:

Eagles: We examined this situation in depth in last week's Waiver Wired column. The bottom line is that Andy Reid traded Donovan McNabb to open up an opportunity for Kevin Kolb. Though we have reason to believe that Michael Vick gives the Eagles a better chance to win with the locker room perhaps leaning in his direction, Reid will give Kolb the opportunity to play himself out of the starting job.

Vick's 21-of-34 performance for 284 passing yards, 37 rushing yards, and two touchdowns in a winning effort at Detroit will be fresh in Reid's mind if Kolb struggles again. Find a way to stash Vick as he remains a potential QB1 with Kolb on a short leash.

Titans: Though Vince Young's benching was well earned after two interceptions and two fumbles against the Steelers, he remains the best option at quarterback in Tennessee. Coach Jeff Fisher wasted no time in insisting that "Vince is still our starter" and "there is no quarterback controversy." Young may have less leeway going forward, which is a slight concern for Chris Johnson owners.

Cardinals: Describing Derek Anderson's first two games with the Cardinals as a roller coaster ride would be generous. He was finally yanked in garbage time Sunday, but coach Ken Whisenhunt isn't ready to make the switch permanent. "The end of the game was more about getting Max [Hall] a few snaps," Whisenhunt explained.

Hall won't be seriously considered for this week's game against Oakland, but his shot is coming before mid-season. Anderson clearly isn't the future, and he's not even giving the team a better chance to win now. Beat writer Kent Somers can't picture Whisenhunt watching "watching weeks upon weeks of similar offensive performances" without making a change. Hall wouldn't have to play like a godsend to be welcome news for Larry Fitzgerald owners.

Steelers: The only quarterback out of the Week 3 picture is Ben Roethlisberger. Sunday's starter Dennis Dixon never returned after leaving with a knee sprain. Considering he fumbled twice and failed to the move offense, he was heading to the bench regardless. An impotent Charlie Batch came on to average 2.3 yards per attempt, proving only that he doesn't belong on an NFL field.

At this point, Mike Tomlin has no clue who will start against the Bucs in Week. Bryon Leftwich, coming off an MCL sprain, is expected to re-sign on Monday. Fantasy leaguers owning any of the Steelers skill position players should probably be hoping that Leftwich is well enough to play.

Panthers: Coach John Fox insisted Sunday night that it's "way too early" to make a decision on next week's starter. "We'll go with whoever gives us the best chance to win next week and that will take some time [to decide]." The Charlotte Observer, though, believes the "Matt Moore era ended after seven quarters." ESPN's Pat Yasinskas posits that Fox has "no choice" but to go with Jimmy Clausen. "With Moore, there's no longer any hope of an upside," explains Yasinskas. "With Clausen, that idea still exists."

Jaguars: Although David Garrard tied his career-high with four picks, his benching was as much about the scoreboard as his Jekyll and Hyde impersonation. One week after posting a career-high passer rating of 138.9, Garrard isn't going to lose his job to Luke McCown. A last-minute knee injury to McCown has likely made the point moot.

Raiders: Saving the most bizarre for last. Of all the quarterbacks benched Sunday, Campbell was the most stunning just six quarters into his Raiders career. Owner Al Davis had compared Campbell's arrival to Jim Plunkett's impact on the 1980 Super Bowl team. You can bet he was none too happy about coach Tom Cable's decision to spark the team with Bruce Gradkowski in the second half.

A change to the Raiders' post-game quote sheet distributed to the media suggests that Davis may "order" Campbell to be reinstalled despite Gradkowski's superior performance in Week 2. The decision to stick with Gradkowski may be out of Cable's hands.

[SIZE=+1]Don't Panic[/SIZE]

1. Randy Moss, Patriots - With Wes Welker proving to be a reasonable facsimile of his pre-injury self and Aaron Hernandez emerging as a legit weapon down the seam, it's only a matter of time before Moss and Tom Brady begin clicking on deep balls. Moss is guaranteed double-digit touchdowns and 1,200 yards. It's coming.

2. Maurice Jones-Drew, Jaguars - A preseason knee scare, Jacksonville's subpar offense, and Sunday's final stat-line won't have owners feeling all warm and fuzzy, but we know three things about MJD: 1. He's going to score double-digit touchdowns 2. He's going to catch 45-50 passes 3. His yardage numbers are down only due to the blowout nature of Sunday's game.

3. Michael Turner, Falcons - Turner (9 rushes, 75 yards) was on his way to a monster fantasy game before a groin injury sent him to the sidelines in Sunday's blowout victory. He was cleared to go back in, but the Falcons -- apparently having learned from their mistakes with Burner's ankle last season -- opted to play it cautiously. Although Jason Snelling went off for 186 yards and two touchdowns on the Cardinals, indications point toward Turner returning to a full workload against the Saints in Week 3.

4. Hines Ward / Mike Wallace, Steelers - Drafters knew the drill when they selected Ward and Wallace: production would be spotty at best with the Steelers leaning on the run until Big Ben's Week 6 return. You drafted them with the second-half of the fantasy season in mind, so it's no time to panic now. Keep them stashed.

5. Jamaal Charles, Chiefs - We're going out on a limb here considering coach Todd Haley is off to a 2-0 start with Charles as a change-of-pace back. Is it at least slightly disconcerting that Charles has only 11 rushing attempts in each of the first two games? Sure. But he's also tenth in the NFL in rushing yards, ahead of luminaries such as Ray Rice, Maurice Jones-Drew, DeAngelo Williams, and Michael Turner. The smart bet remains that the Chiefs' best player will prove to be too important to the offense to keep Haley company on the sidelines.



[SIZE=+1]Some Panic Is Acceptable[/SIZE]

1. Shonn Greene, Jets - Shonn Greene Owners Anonymous can seek solace in the fact that he took the first carry of the contest and helped salt away the game late. Unfortunately, he was selected early with visions of a 2008 Michael Turner dancing in drafters' heads, not a 2008 LenDale White. Greene owners are left to cross their fingers each week in hopes of a touchdown while LaDainian Tomlinson continues to outproduce him.

2. Brett Favre, Vikings - Let's see here: he's lost his most reliable receiver, several ticks from his fastball, a few steps of mobility, and the healthy respect of defensive coordinators. Unless his offensive line shores up and his receivers start to get open, Favre won't be able to pull himself out of the early-season malaise this time around. A Vincent Jackson trade is just what the doctor ordered.

3. Tony Gonzalez, Falcons - For two straight weeks, Rotoworld's game charters have speculated that the 34-year-old has finally lost a step. Matt Ryan has completed 48 passes thus far, with just four going to the old reliable tight end. Gonzalez's role is certain to expand over the next few weeks, but his ceiling may now be top-12 instead of top-five.

4. Owen Daniels, Texans - Daniels has the same problem as Gonzalez right now: He looks slower and less explosive than previous editions. Clearly not 100 percent, Daniels isn't getting open or making defenders miss after the catch. The Texans and Redskins combined for 923 passing yards in Sunday's fantasy bonanza, yet Daniels was a bystander. It may be awhile before he's worth using in fantasy leagues.

5. Percy Harvin, Vikings - Letting a catchable ball bounce off his chest at the goal line for an interception didn't earn him any goodwill from Favre. Harvin went on to spend most of the second half on the sidelines after aggravating his hip injury. Even if he receives positive MRI results, he's going to be an awfully risky fantasy start again in a depressed passing offense next week.

Others: Devin Aromashodu, Beanie Wells, Dwayne Bowe, Bernard Berrian, Jabar Gaffney, Cadillac Williams

[SIZE=+1]They're real and they're spectacular[/SIZE]

1. Jahvid Best, Lions - My post-NFL draft and pre-training camp pick to take the league by storm as a rookie this season is off to a nice start with a league-leading five touchdowns. We knew about the game-breaking speed and moves as a poor man's Chris Johnson, but Best has surpassed expectations by establishing himself as a successful goal-line back. While he does have tough matchups on the docket against the Vikings and Packers, his receiving ability should keep him in fantasy lineups as a rock-solid RB2.

2. Darren McFadden, Raiders - For the second straight week, McFadden looked strong both inside and out. While Steven Jackson started the game on fire for the Rams, it was McFadden who lowered his shoulder throughout, trucking defenders. The Raiders can't go back to a timeshare attack at this point. McFadden is second in the NFL in rushing yards and first downs and third in attempts while averaging a stout 5.0 yards per carry and 151.5 yards per game.

3. LeSean McCoy, Eagles - So much for that three-headed backfield in Philly. Mike Bell has four rushes for zero yards, and FB Leonard Weaver is out for the season. Meanwhile, McCoy is tied for second in the NFL with four scores and eighth in the league with 167 rushing yards at 6.7 yards per attempt. McCoy excels in space, so it's no coincidence that he's gone off with dual-threat Michael Vick stretching the field both vertically and horizontally.

4. Kyle Orton, Broncos - Tim Tebow received all of the offseason hype, but this is clearly Orton's team. Already flirting with QB1 status while spreading the ball around to an unassuming array of targets, Orton now has exceptional talent Demaryius Thomas threatening to break out as a bona fide No. 1 receiver.

5. Mark Clayton, Rams - We know Clayton has arrived as the Rams' No. 1 receiver because he drew Nnamdi Asomugha in shadow coverage on Sunday. Though he was held to just two catches, both went for scores, including a spectacular 17-yard grab late in the game. Looking like a long-term solution in St. Louis, Clayton is getting dangerously close to must-start status.

[SIZE=+1]Committee Time[/SIZE]

1. Jets - Coach Rex Ryan deemed this an equal timeshare last week, and that's exactly where we're headed. Shonn Greene (16 touches, 60 yards) and LaDainian Tomlinson (15 touches, 102 yards) appeared to share short-yardage duties, and a reinvigorated LT2 maintains an edge in the passing game. Greene is the best bet for fantasy value in the long run, but Tomlinson is carrying more week-to-week value at the moment.

2. Chiefs - Thomas Jones (23 touches, 88 yards) played as the clear lead back Sunday, with Jamaal Charles (12 touches, 76 yards) being used as a change of pace. Despite 11 fewer touches through two games, Charles has an advantage of 49 yards on Jones. Charles is still the back to own, but Jones will continue to be a nagging presence.

3. Cowboys - Starter Marion Barber (11 touches, 31 yards) provides Dallas with a physical tone-setter but very little playmaking ability. Felix Jones (9 touches, 19 yards) fell victim to a swarming Bears defense. The Cowboys desperately need his homerun-hitting ability, so look for the coaching staff to work on getting the ball to him out in space. For now, neither back can be trusted in fantasy leagues.

4. Panthers - Jonathan Stewart (8 touches, 43 yards) is still playing second fiddle to DeAngelo Williams (20 touches, 74 yards), and both backs are being hurt by the Panthers' quarterback woes. In addition to facing stacked fronts, their carries are limited by game momentum.

5. Giants - It's clear now that this isn't a straight committee attack. Brandon Jacobs didn't enter until the third series, and he ended the game in Tom Coughlin's doghouse after dancing at the line of scrimmage and then chucking his helmet into the stands. Bradshaw is averaging 19.5 touches and 91 yards per game compared to 9 touches and 36.5 yards for Jacobs.

6. Dolphins - Same as it ever was. Ronnie Brown remains the starter and the best bet for fantasy value, but Ricky Williams' dozen touches per game limit the production of both backs. Brown finished with 83 yards on 14 touches while Williams added 30 yards on 10 carries.

7. Bills - This backfield is as clear as mud. C.J. Spiller, projected by one beat writer to receiver 20+ offensive touches per game, carried the ball one time for three yards. Marshawn Lynch, ostensibly being showcased for a trade, had the first eight carries of the game on his way to a team-high 17 rushing attempts for 64 yards. He gave way to Fred Jackson at the goal-line, leaving fantasy owners scratching their heads and moving on to the next team.

8. Browns - Was Eric Mangini finally giving Jerome Harrison a chance to take over feature back duties? If so, Harrison flunked the audition. He saw 19 touches to just 11 for Peyton Hillis, but his fumbling woes continued on his way to a dismal 2.1 yards per carry.

9. Seahawks - See Week 1. Justin Forsett remains the starter, the most productive back, and the best use of a fantasy roster spot. For all of that, he's averaging just 9.5 touches and 56 yards per game. There's scant fantasy value here.

10. Patriots - "Starter" Fred Taylor rushed just five times for 11 yards Sunday while BenJarvus Green-Ellis led the backfield with 10 carries for 19 yards. Green-Ellis appears to have leapfrogged Sammy Morris as the primary backup on early downs, but this remains a fantasy quagmire.

Falling Out: Bears (Matt Forte), Raiders (Darren McFadden)

[SIZE=+1]Injury Ward[/SIZE]

Michael Turner, Falcons - Groin
Ryan Mathews, Chargers - Ankle
Andre Johnson, Texans - Ankle
Percy Harvin, Vikings - Hip
Jason Witten, Cowboys - Concussion
Steve Smith, Panthers - Wrist
Nate Burleson, Lions - Ankle
Jerious Norwood, Falcons - Knee
Dennis Dixon, Steelers - Knee
Darrelle Revis, Jets - Hamstring
Champ Bailey, Broncos - Ankle
Mike Jenkins, Cowboys - Knee
Trent Williams, Redskins - Knee

Matt Stroup's "MRI Monday" column has in-depth analysis on all of this week's high-impact injuries.

[SIZE=+1]Awards Section[/SIZE]

Stat of the Week: Jahvid Best is the first rookie in NFL history with at least 75 rushing yards, 150 receiving yards and three touchdowns in one game. He also became just the fourth rookie since 1960 with at least two touchdowns in his first two games. Best's five touchdowns in two games are the most by a Lions rookie since Billy Sims' five in 1980.

Runner Up: Matt Schaub and Donovan McNabb are just the fifth duo in NFL history to bypass 400 yards passing in the same game. Their 923 combined passing yards is the second-most all-time by opposing quarterbacks in a single game.

Quote of the Week: Coach Mike Singletary on the report by Yahoo! Sports' Jason Cole that the 49ers players are losing faith in Jimmy "Boomhauer" Raye because his playcalling is too often garbled: "Don't base an entire man's career on a dad-gum Yahoo commercial."

Runner-up: From the SI.com vault, Randy Moss in 1997 at age 20: "If I needed someone to give me advice, then I'd have a second brain to tell me what to do."

Tweet of the Week: From Yahoo! Sports' @RealMikeSilver on Jahvid Best's highlight-reel effort against the Eagles: "After jahvid best's first half, I'm guessing jim schwartz needed a cold shower."

Runner-up: From NFL Network's @richeisen on Sunday's action: "Michael Vick with a touchdown pass and now Pac Man with a pick. I think 2006 is making it rain today."

Seond Runner-up: From Rotoworld/ProFootballTalk's @greggrosenthal on the Black Eyed Peas being named the musical act for the 2011 Super Bowl: "Nothing says Super Bowl halftime show like my lovely lady lumps."

**Note: For those fantasy Luddites slow to embrace the latest technological asset in this game, @Chetrazzball has put together an informative "Twitter 101 for Fantasy Football."

Fantasy MVP of Week 2: Jahvid Best, Lions (40 points) edges out Matt Schaub (36 points)
Fantasy Breakout Player of Week 2: LeSean McCoy, Eagles
Fantasy Rookie of Week 2: Jahvid Best, Lions
Fantasy Disappointment of Week 2: Chris Johnson, Titans
Fantasy Fraud of Week 2: C.J. Spiller, Bills
Fantasy Fluke of Week 2: Brandon Pettigrew, Lions

[SIZE=+1]Barry Horowitz Award[/SIZE]

Taking a page from 1980s WWF wrestler Barry Horowitz, Rotoworld gets to pat its own back "as a self-congratulatory measure" for picking Arian Foster and Jahvid Best as its two breakout running backs throughout the summer.

[SIZE=+1]Fine Fifteen Fantasy Offenses[/SIZE]

1. Colts - A model of stability.
2. Texans - Had league's top rusher in Week 1, top passer in Week 2.
3. Packers - League's most explosive quarterback/tight end combo?
4. Saints - Need Pierre Thomas to emerge as a reliable starter to balance offense.
5. Cowboys - Not yet clicking on all cylinders, but it's coming.
6. Patriots - Hernandez graduating to every-week starter?
7. Eagles - Would be higher if Vick was staying under center in Week 3.
8. Chargers - Still waiting on that Ryan Mathews breakout.
9. Bears - Can Cutler keep it up behind the swinging gates up front?
10. Broncos - Orton leads NFL in passing yards (1,033) and 25-yard passes (12) in his last three games.
11. Giants - Bradshaw separating from Jacobs.
12. Ravens - Consistency still elusive for Flacco.
13. Falcons - Will Burner return for Week 3?
14. Vikings - Vincent Jackson has the remedy.
15. Lions - Calvin Johnson needs to break out. He will.

[SIZE=+1]Early Waiver Look[/SIZE]

1. Demaryius Thomas, Broncos
2. Jason Snelling, Falcons
3. Marshawn Lynch, Bills - 36 percent ownership in CBSSports.com leagues
4. Aaron Hernandez, Patriots
5. Louis Murphy, Raiders
6. Devin Hester, Bears - 51 percent ownership in CBSSports.com leagues
7. Kevin Walter, Texans - 34 percent ownership in CBSSports.com leagues
8. Mike Tolbert, Chargers
9. Golden Tate, Seahawks
10. Max Hall, Cardinals

Others: Mario Manningham, Martellus Bennett, Marcedes Lewis, Tony Moeaki, John Kuhn, Bruce Gradkowski, Jimmy Clausen, Byron Leftwich, Kenny Britt, Deon Butler

Owners of Michael Turner and Ryan Mathews will understandably target their backups. Those without Turner and Mathews, however, are better off grabbing Demaryius Thomas and Aaron Hernandez.

HacheMan · Sep 21, 2010

Getting Crabby
Michael Crabtree played hard on Monday night. He lined up on the left side, the right side and even the slot. He was the lone receiver in some one-wide sets and blocked on running plays with good effort. It was not enough.

Crabtree wasn't targeted until the second half. He ended up seeing just three passes come his way all night, one of which he slipped on and another one that was deflected into an interception. Alex Smith looked for Frank Gore, Josh Morgan and Vernon Davis all before he glanced at Crabtree.

To quote Chris Wesseling's Morning After column, some panic is acceptable. That huge breakout many of us expected, including myself, isn't looking likely because the Niners don't feel the need to get the ball to Crabtree. Perhaps some of that has to do with all the "Diva" antics, or perhaps Crabtree just isn't ready. Maybe Alex Smith doesn't feel as comfortable with his No. 1 wideout as he should after that neck strain cost Crabtree his preseason.

Still, WR2/3 value is still very attainable. Crabtree remains Smith's most talented wide receiver and if he continues to play hard like he did tonight, his teammates/coaches will gain more trust in him. Once Crabtree gets the ball in his hands, he makes things happen. If you own Crabtree, don't jump ship at this point. If you don't own him, you should be able to "buy low" for a nickel on the dollar right now. Do it.

Editor's Note: For early rankings every Tuesday morning, tons of exclusive columns, subscriber-only chats, full projections updated all week and much more, get our award-winning Season Pass.

BUSH INJURED
Reggie Bush muffed a punt in the fourth quarter, dove on the ball, and got his knee bent the wrong way. It didn't look good. He had to be helped off the field and clutched his knee.

DeShawn Wynn is the No. 3 back, but he's not a substitute for Bush, who had just seven rushes through two games. If Bush misses time, there will be more targets available for the Saints' receivers and Pierre Thomas -- especially in the red zone. Note that Chris Ivory (knee) is due back in Week 4.

Saints vs. 49ers quick slants
Not sure why the Saints insist on starting Reggie Bush, but we all know it doesn't matter. Pierre Thomas is the feature back. ... Good to see Thomas take some big hits down low and pop right up. He'll be a target monster if Bush is sidelined for awhile. ... Frank Gore is going to have come huge games this season, even bigger than last night's monster. Dude is a beast. It's merely unfortunate he got a blow during the Anthony Dixon's third quarter touchdown. ... The Niners may be the worst-coached team in the league. The lack of organization and mental errors in all facets is alarming. ... Alex Smith is solid when he has time. Terrible under duress. Regardless, have to give him credit for an impressive game-tying drive in the fourth quarter. ... Robert Meachem and Lance Moore combined for one target. It's to be expected in the Saints' situational offense.

<BIG>HEADLINERS</BIG>
NEWS OF THE DAY #1
Matt Moore has been removed as the Panthers' starting quarterback in favor of second-round rookie Jimmy Clausen. It's a mild surprise that this change happened so quickly, but the bottom line is why the heck not? Despite an impressive December run last year, Moore proved in this preseason plus two regular season games that he's backup-caliber at best. Bad arm, bad decisions, bad pocket presence.

Clausen started in Charlie Weis' pro-style offense for 2 1/2 seasons and he likely would have been a first-round pick if it wasn't for some minor character concerns. That's where the good news stops. Clausen has one receiver to throw to, faces tough pass defenses over the next month and is certain to have growing pains. Look for the Panthers to go extremely run heavy.

Bottom line: The change doesn't really affect Steve Smith. He's still going to get his and Clausen can't be worse than Moore was this year. Clausen will be a game manager, so expect some extra carries for DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart.

Editor's Note: Pick a new fantasy team just for today and win real cash with Snapdraft!

NEWS OF THE DAY #2
Questions have been pouring in regarding the Packers' possible pursuit of Marshawn Lynch. Either the Bills really, firmly, crazily don't want to trade him, or they are doing a really good job of maintaining leverage.

The latest word comes from ESPN's Adam Schefter, who says that "it still doesn't sound like Buffalo is in any mood or hurry to trade" Lynch. This comes after the Bills appeared to showcase their third-stringer by featuring him against the Packers in Week 2.

Brandon Jackson's flop in Week 2 leaves the door ajar, but for now it looks like the Bills are standing pat.

NEWS OF THE DAY #3
News came down early Tuesday morning that Brandon Jacobs would meet with management and ask for a trade. Obviously, Jacobs isn't happy with his strict backup role behind Ahmad Bradshaw and thought throwing his helmet into the stands Sunday night wasn't enough to prove his point.

The problem for Jacobs is that no one wants him at his current salary. He's stuck as Bradshaw's jock-carrier and that's that.

NEWS OF THE DAY #4
Vincent Jackson is a "long shot" to be traded before Wednesday's NFL-mandated deadline, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter. This shows just how much hardball Chargers GM A.J. Smith is willing to play. If Wednesday's deadline comes and goes as expected, you can go ahead and unload Jackson. Smith isn't budging.



<BIG>MONDAY QUICK SLANTS</BIG>
DEPTH CHART QUICK SLANTS: FIRST DOWN
The Raiders won't say whether Bruce Gradkowski or Jason Campbell will start in Week 3 until Wednesday. ... Coach Jeff Fisher confirmed that Vince Young will start Sunday despite getting benched last week. ... Trent Edwards has been removed as the Bills' starter in favor of Ryan Fitzpatrick. It won't make a big difference. ... Derek Anderson got a vote of confidence Monday, but Max Hall is still lurking. ... Andy Reid reiterated that Kevin Kolb will start over Michael Vick this week. ... Jamaal Charles acknowledged for the first time that he is Thomas Jones' backup.

DEPTH CHART QUICK SLANTS: SECOND DOWN
Brandon Lloyd is expected to be the one that will lose snaps to rookie riser Demaryius Thomas. ... David Buehler got a vote of confidence despite Sunday's crucial miss. ... Byron Leftwich was re-signed by the Steelers Monday and is in the mix to start along with Charlie Batch. ... Larry Johnson was benched in favor of Keiland Williams on Sunday. ... Fred Taylor and BenJarvus Green-Ellis loosely rotated series on Sunday. Avoid both. ... Wes Welker played just 39 of the 61 offensive snaps Sunday. ... Eric Weems starts opposite Roddy White in Week 2. ... With Brandon LaFell (hamstring) sidelined, David Gettis started opposite Steve Smith in Week 2.

INJURY QUICK SLANTS: FIRST DOWN
Michael Turner (groin) is expected to start this week. ... Dennis Dixon (knee) will be out at least three weeks. ... Sidney Rice (hip) is still targeting Week 8 for his return. ... Ryan Mathews (ankle) is tentatively expected to be a go for Sunday. ... Chad Ochocinco tweeted that he has a cracked rib. He should be fine. ... An MRI on Andre Johnson's ankle revealed a mild ankle sprain. He will almost certainly start Sunday. ... The Cardinals are optimistic about Beanie Wells (knee), but we'll believe it when he practices in full. ... Jason Witten (concussion) expects to play, but he'll have to complete the NFL's testing regiment. He could still be held out this week. ... Percy Harvin (hip) has a strain, but his status for Week 3 is in doubt.

INJURY QUICK SLANTS: SECOND DOWN
Matthew Stafford (shoulder) is not expected back this week, or anytime soon in reality ... Michael Bush (thumb) got his stitches out and is headed for a game-time decision this week. He won't really threaten Darren McFadden. ... Kevin Boss (concussion) expects to return this week. ... Luke McCown (knee) is likely done for the year. David Garrard's job is now safe. ... Nate Burleson could miss 2-3 weeks with a high ankle sprain. Bad news for Tony Scheffler and Calvin Johnson. ... Shocking news: Jerious Norwood is hurt again. This time, his knee injury may be serious. Jason Snelling is the third-down back and handcuff to Michael Turner. ... Kellen Winslow (knee) admitted that his knee is painful, but guaranteed he won't miss any games.

<BIG>WAIVERS</BIG>
DEFENSIVE SPOT STARTS
Adding a different defense each week based on matchups is a fine strategy. Each week in this space, I'll give out three defensive units that are likely available in your league to consider for streaming purposes.

1. PATRIOTS vs. Bills: The Pats' defense made Mark Sanchez look like Joe Montana in Week 2. Bill Belichick won't let that happen two weeks in row, especially with the Bills and Ryan Fitzpatrick in town.

2. BENGALS at Panthers: This Cincy defense probably should be owned weekly with all the talent they have. It's not the greatest spot to trot out new starter Jimmy Clausen, especially when he has no weapons outside of Steve Smith.

3. CARDINALS vs. Raiders: Yet another opponent that is in the midst of quarterback woes. The Cardinals should come out with fire after getting utterly embarrassed by the Falcons in Week 2.

HacheMan · Sep 21, 2010

Age of Demaryius
"Age of Demaryius" won out fairly handily over "On the Dock of the Bay-Bay" as the article title in my informal Monday night Twitter poll. Speaking of Twitter, it's a much better way of getting in touch with Rotoworld writers for tips on waiver pickups, trades, and starting lineup decisions. We try to get to the many queries in our email in-boxes each week, but there's a better chance of having your conundrum solved on Twitter due to the timeliness and ease of use. Hit us up @ChrisWesseling, @evansilva, @adamlevitan, and @greggrosenthal.

Courtesy of @AdamHarstad of DynastyRankings.net, here are the best rookie debuts by a wide receiver since 1995:

1. Anquan Boldin - 10 receptions, 217 yards, 2 touchdowns
2. Eddie Royal - 9 receptions, 146 yards, 1 touchdown
3. Randy Moss - 4 receptions, 95 yards, 2 touchdowns
4. Demaryius Thomas - eight receptions, 97 yards, 1 touchdown
5. Louis Murphy - 4 receptions, 87 yards, 1 touchdown
6. Marvin Harrison - six receptions, 85 yards, 1 touchdown
7. Deion Branch - six receptions, 83 yards, 1 touchdown
8. JuJuan Dawson - six receptions, 83 yards, 1 touchdown
9. Charles Rogers - four receptions, 38 yards, 2 touchdowns
10. DeSean Jackson - six receptions, 106 yards, 0 touchdowns

"Bay-Bay's" debut was even more impressive considering he was essentially on the field for just two drives as coach Josh McDaniels attempted to ease him back in following a nagging foot injury. As soon as Thomas hit the field, Kyle Orton targeted him to the exclusion of his other receivers, backs, and tight ends. The rookie caught all four of his third-down targets for 57 yards and a touchdown.

Bay-Bay's snaps are likely to be limited again next week and possibly into mid-October. As long as he can put the foot woes behind him, though, there's potential for a Miles Austin-like breakout in Denver's pass-friendly offense. Thomas is a monster physical talent with ideal size, 4.4 speed, and the leaping ability to make an impact in the red zone.

With Michael Turner (groin) and Ryan Mathews (ankle) looking likely to rejoin their respective starting lineups this week, Jason Snelling and Mike Tolbert are no more than "handcuffs" going forward. For those who don't own Turner or Mathews, I'd recommend bypassing their backups to grab Thomas or Aaron Hernandez. For that matter, I'd rather own Thomas' upside than a handcuff peace of mind even if I was counting on Turner or Mathews.

On to the players. Here is how I rank the top players available at each position as we head into Week 3. Full writeups of each player are below.

***

Editor's Note: Join subscriber only chats, get weekly rankings before anyone else, plus exclusive weekly projections, stat tools, dynasty ranks, columns, and much more including the Rotoworld Oracle in our Season Pass.

Quarterbacks
1. Josh Freeman
2. Sam Bradford
3. Shaun Hill
4. Bruce Gradkowski
5. Max Hall
6. Jimmy Clausen
7. Seneca Wallace
8. Byron Leftwich

**Note: Kyle Orton is already owned in over half of CBSSports.com leagues (58 percent). If he's available, he's easily the top waiver option at quarterback this week.

Running Backs
1. Marshawn Lynch
2. Jason Snelling
3. Mike Tolbert
4. Keiland Williams
5. BenJarvus Green-Ellis
6. Toby Gerhart
7. Earnest Graham
8. John Kuhn

**Note: Donald Brown is already owned in over half of CBSSports.com leagues (68 percent). If he's available, he's easily the top waiver option at running back this week. Laurence Maroney is owned in 60 percent.

Wide Receivers
1. Demaryius Thomas
2. Louis Murphy
3. Kevin Walter
4. Devin Hester
5. Golden Tate
6. Mario Manningham
7. Kenny Britt
8. Deon Butler
9. Greg Camarillo
10. Jordan Shipley

**Note: Vincent Jackson is owned in 90 percent of CBSSports.com leagues. Fantasy leaguers will know by late Wednesday afternoon whether he'll be traded or not. Sidney Rice is owned in 68 percent of CBSSports.com leagues. V-Jax is the better use of a roster stash on Tuesday and early Wednesday. Rice would be the choice in leagues that have waivers running Wednesday evening through the end of the week.

Tight Ends
1. Aaron Hernandez
2. Marcedes Lewis
3. Tony Moeaki
4. Martellus Bennett

**Note: Dustin Keller is owned in 55 percent of CBSSports.com. If he's available, he would vie with the Hernandez for the top spot. Hernandez has the advantage of a far superior offense while Keller is the better bet for touchdowns.

Defense/Special Teams

1. Patriots
2. Bengals
3. Buccaneers

[SIZE=+1]Quarterbacks[/SIZE]

Josh Freeman, Buccaneers - It's ugly at quarterback on the waiver wire this week unless Orton is available. Freeman won't be a starting option against a reinvigorated Steelers defense this week, but he's been a top-10 fantasy quarterback through two weeks. With Mike Williams joining Kellen Winslow as a reliable target, Freeman makes for a fine QB2 stash.

Recommendation: Should be owned in 12-team leagues

Sam Bradford, Rams - This may be as good as it gets for a matchup play off the waiver wire. Bradford has been a top-20 fantasy quarterback thus far, clearing 16 points in each of his first two games. The Redskins defense was just torched for 497 yards and three touchdowns by Matt Schaub, and they're averaging 389.5 yards against the pass through two weeks.

Recommendation: Worth a look in 12-team leagues

Shaun Hill, Lions - Hill racked up major fantasy points behind 335 yards and two touchdowns against the Eagles, but a closer look reveals that he did most of his damage in garbage time. He goes up against a Vikings defense this week allowing just 167.5 passing yards per game through two weeks. Opposing quarterbacks, however, have passed for a 102.7 rating, indicating that Vikes can still be attacked more efficiently through the air than on the ground.

Recommendation: Should be owned in two-quarterback leagues

Max Hall, Cardinals - Fellow rookie Jimmy Clausen will beat him to the starting lineup, but Hall is the one with a better chance to make an impact in fantasy leagues. Coach Ken Whisenhunt isn't ready to turn the page on Derek Anderson just yet, but change is in the air. Whiz won't watch the quarterback holding the offense hostage week after week.

Recommendation: Worth a stash in deeper leagues

Bruce Gradkowski, Raiders - Gradkowski's chances of starting in Week 3 hinge on Al Davis. If the Raiders owner has his heart set on keeping Jason Campbell under center, he'll get his way. Coach Tom Cable will have to do some serious politicking to get Gradkowski into the lineup against the Cardinals, a defense that has been easily attacked through the air the past two games. For what it's worth, ESPN's Adam Schefter believes Gradkowski will get the nod.

Recommendation: Worth a look in two-quarterback leagues

Jimmy Clausen, Panthers - Coach John Fox announced Clausen as his new starter on Monday, but this is hardly a situation ready-made for fantasy success. Clausen will be asked to avoid turnovers and keep defenses honest enough to get the running game back on track.

Recommendation: Worth a look in two-quarterback leagues

Seneca Wallace, Browns - A Sunday morning report suggested Jake Delhomme (ankle) was doubtful to play this week after being held out of practice all of last week. Wallace appears to be in line for a second straight start in a red-light matchup. It would be hard to recommend any quarterback in the Ravens' home opener, much less one directing a subpar passing attack.

Recommendation: Worth a look in two-quarterback leagues

Byron Leftwich, Steelers - This situations is problematic for Pittsburgh. Leftwich (MCL sprain) never came close to playing last week despite returning to a limited practice. If he's not close to 100 percent, he'll be even more of a sitting duck in the pocket than he is on a normal basis. Expect the Bucs to tee off on Leftwich if he draws the start on Sunday.

Recommendation: Worth a look in two-quarterback leagues

Cut Bait: Matt Cassel, Jason Campbell, Derek Anderson, Matt Moore, Dennis Dixon, Trent Edwards, Jake Delhomme

Cassel, Campbell, and Anderson have reached the point where it wouldn't surprise if they were pulled in any game. There's a danger of a stink-bomb for every week going forward. ... Moore and Edwards headed to the bench. ... Ben Roethlisberger will beat Dixon back to the lineup. ... Delhomme is unlikely to play in a tough matchup at Baltimore.

Hold Off: Ryan Fitzpatrick, Kerry Collins, Luke McCown

Fitzpatrick isn't going to do any better than Trent Edwards. ... Collins heads back to the bench in Tennessee. ... McCown is done for the season with an ACL tear.



[SIZE=+1]Running Backs[/SIZE]

Marshawn Lynch, Bills - If the Bills are as staunchly against dealing Lynch as they claim to be, then why did he leapfrog both C.J. Spiller and Fred Jackson for feature-back duties against a team that just happens to need a running back? If Lynch has truly ascended to No. 1 on the depth chart, he should be on more than a third of fantasy rosters. If he's actually available for trade, he's well worth a roster stash.

Recommendation: Should be owned in all leagues

Jason Snelling, Falcons - While Snelling picked up this week (29 touches, 186 yards, 3 touchdowns) where he left off in an impressive 2009 late-season run, he's headed back to a reserve role with Michael Turner "ready to go" this week. Groin injuries can linger, though, so Snelling is well worth a speculative waiver addition. Just don't expect to be picking up a fantasy starter for this week's game at New Orleans.

Recommendation: Should be owned in 12-team leagues

Mike Tolbert, Chargers - Tolbert was fun to watch as he channeled rotund backs Natrole Means and Marion Butts on his way to 17 touches, 95 yards, and two scores against the Jags. His situation is almost identical to Snelling's, however, with starter Ryan Mathews (ankle sprain) expected to be ready for this week's game at Seattle. Tolbert does have goal-line vulture potential, so he's well worth owning in touchdown-heavy leagues.

Recommendation: Should be owned in 12-team leagues

Keiland Williams, Redskins - Rotoworld's Ryan Boyer did a nice job of summing up Williams' upside as a stash in Monday's Pancake Blocks blog post. Clinton Portis is in no immediate danger of being yanked, but he's hardly a great bet to stay healthy. Longer shots than Williams have come through for fantasy leaguers in Mike Shanahan's backfields.

Recommendation: Worth a stash in 12-team leagues

BenJarvus Green-Ellis, Patriots - If the first two games are any indication, Green-Ellis is second in line only to Fred Taylor for carries in the Pats' backfield. As Laurence Maroney showed last season and "Law Firm" himself proved in 2008, there's value to be had in this quagmire if one back gets a clear path to carries. Feel free to stash "Boston Legal" in case 34-year-old Fred Taylor goes down.

Recommendation: Worth a stash in 12-team leagues

Toby Gerhart, Vikings - Albert Young went from Week 1 third-down back to the inactive list in Week 2. Gerhart has emerged as the primary backup in Minnesota, which would give him plenty of fantasy value should Adrian Peterson miss time.

Recommendation: Should be owned in 12-team leagues

Earnest Graham, Buccaneers - Cadillac Williams isn't in danger of losing his feature-back duties just yet, but he's going to have to do a lot better than 2.6 yards per carry. With Kareem Huggins (groin) banged up, Graham has the most to gain should the Caddy continue to putter along.

Recommendation: Worth a look in 12-team leagues

John Kuhn, Packers - While Brandon Jackson hogged the spotlight heading up to Week 2, "Ace Boon Kuhn" nearly matched him in carries while outproducing him in yardage. Barring a trade for a veteran back, Kuhn should emerge as the clear goal-line back in a Peyton Hillis-type role.

Recommendation: Worth a look in touchdown-heavy leagues

Long-Term Fliers: DeShawn Wynn, Bernard Scott, Dimitri Nance, James Starks, Mike Goodson, Kareem Huggins

Wynn is next man up with Reggie Bush (leg fracture) out six weeks. ... Scott isn't going to take over for Cedric Benson, but his upside is as high as any backup's. ... Nance and Starks could see time in the Packers' backfield later this season. ... Goodson needs an injury to Jonathan Stewart or DeAngelo Williams for value. ... Huggins (groin) is worth a look with Cadillac Williams struggling to keep his head above the 2.0 YPC water-line.

Cut Bait: Correll Buckhalter, Mike Bell, Jerious Norwood, Larry Johnson

Buckhalter will be remaindered as soon as Laurence Maroney (thigh) is ready for game action. ... Bell has been left behind by Shady McCoy. ... Norwood (knee) looks unlikely to play this week. ... L.J. is chained to the Redskins' bench.



[SIZE=+1]Wide Receivers[/SIZE]

Demaryius Thomas, Broncos - Watching the "Shortcuts" version of Denver's win over Seattle, it was easy to tell when Thomas was in the game because Kyle Orton couldn't stop going to him. The first receiver drafted in April put to rest concerns about his route running and missed practice time with a dominant showing in limited action. Playing time could remain an issue in the short-term, but Thomas' fantasy upside makes him a "must-own" in all leagues.

Recommendation: Should be owned in all leagues

Louis Murphy, Raiders - Murphy owners should hope Adam Schefter's predictive powers are accurate, as the ESPN insider suggested that Bruce Gradkowski will get the nod this week. Murphy was easily Gradkowski's favorite target last week, and the two showed nice chemistry in preseason action as well. Unlike Darrius Heyward-Bey (6 catches, 80 yards), Murphy (six catches, 91 yards, TD) has proven that he's more than a one-game wonder.

Recommendation: Should be owned in 12-team leagues

Kevin Walter, Texans - Walter should be owned in more than a third of all fantasy leagues, but there's some danger of point chasing here. Matt Schaub isn't going to throw 52 times for 497 yards again, and Walter won't sniff 11 catches or 144 yards in any game the rest of the way . Expect him to remain an inconsistent WR3 option going forward, trading big weeks with Jacoby Jones.

Recommendation: Should be owned in 12-team leagues

Devin Hester, Bears - If only he was more reliable. Hester followed up a Week 1 disappearing act with a highlight-filled 4/77/1 performance in an upset win at Dallas. He was dropped in a lot of leagues after one week. Pick him up as a WR5 for bye-week depth, but I'm far from convinced that Devin Aromashodu is in the doghouse for good.

Recommendation: Should be owned in 12-team leagues

Golden Tate, Seahawks - The rookie's opportunities were limited in Denver, but he's exactly what Seattle's offense needs: a legitimate playmaker with the threat to take it the distance every time he gets his hands on the ball. Tate only touched the ball three times Sunday, racking up 82 punt-return yards and a 52-yard reception. Coach Pete Carroll promised to make him a bigger part of the game-plan going forward. Pick him as a high-upside WR5.

Recommendation: Should be stashed in 12-team leagues

Mario Manningham, Giants - With Hakeem Nicks playing through an ankle sprain, Manningham's four catches for 75 yards and a score led the Giants' receivers. While he can be expected to stay more active than a typical No. 3 option weekly, Manning is clearly behind Nicks and Steve Smith. He should be considered bye-week depth as opposed to a legit weekly option.

Recommendation: Should be owned in 12-team leagues

Kenny Britt, Titans - Justin Gage and Nate Washington are still locked into starting roles, so Britt is only worth carrying as a speculative stash. While Gage and Washington are fine bets for 40-50 yards weekly, Britt is the lone Titans receiver with the potential to be a consistent fantasy asset if the opportunity arises. His promising showing in the Titans' fruitless comeback attempt was a strong reminder that he's a far better talent than the two veterans.

Recommendation: Should be stashed in 12-team leagues

Deon Butler, Seahawks - Declining veteran Deion Branch is getting in the way of progress in Seattle. Butler was on his way to a breakout game at Denver with four catches for 47 yards on the first drive of the game before getting lost in the shuffle the rest of the way. Butler is worth a tire-kicking, but he'll need to bypass Branch while holding off Tate to gain real fantasy value.

Recommendation: Worth a look in deeper leagues

Greg Camarillo, Vikings - Camarillo's Week 3 viability depends on Percy Harvin's progress with a hip strain. Even if Camarillo fills in for Harvin, he's a risky play while sharing snaps with Greg Lewis. There's some potential for an expanded role going forward, but Camarillo isn't there just yet.

Recommendation: Worth a look as a fill-in

Jordan Shipley, Bengals - He's no threat to find the end zone, but the rookie slot receiver is worth a roster spot in PPR leagues.

Recommendation: Worth a look in PPR leagues

Long-Term Fliers: James Jones, Julian Edelman, Stephen Williams, Craig Davis

Jones saw seven targets in Week 2, including several in the red zone. ... Edelman should begin splitting third-receiver snaps with Brandon Tate. ... Williams had an uneven debut as Arizona's No. 3 receiver, but his progress is worth tracking. ... Davis will be injured again soon enough.

Cut Bait: Nate Burleson, Jabar Gaffney, Dexter McCluster, Roy Williams, T.J. Houshmandzadeh, Laurent Robinson, Chris Chambers, Brandon Lloyd, Harry Douglas, Early Doucet, Deion Branch

Burleson's high-ankle sprain will keep him out for 2-3 weeks. ... Gaffney and Lloyd are seeing their roles shrink with Thomas emerging. ... McCluster is a return specialist. ... Williams, Housh, Robinson, Chambers, and Branch are afterthoughts are their offenses.

Hold Off: Joshua Cribbs, Darrius Heyward-Bey, Earl Bennett, Justin Gage, Joey Galloway

Cribbs will disappoint more often than not outside of return-yardage leagues. ... DHB is a one-game wonder. ... Bennett will have to prove that he can hold off Devin Aromashodu. ... Gage and Galloway will miss more than they hit.



[SIZE=+1]Tight Ends[/SIZE]

Aaron Hernandez, Patriots - Already one of the top big-play threats at his position, Hernandez moves like a wide receiver in the open field. He caught all six of his targets for 101 yards against the Jets, and his role should continue to grow as he earns Tom Brady's trust. Hernandez is already knocking on the door to TE1 status as he enters his third NFL game.

Recommendation: Should be owned in all leagues

Marcedes Lewis, Jaguars - One week after hauling in a pair of touchdown grabs, Lewis hauled in 5-of-9 targets for 70 yards at San Diego. He's a much better pickup in touchdown-heavy leagues.

Recommendation: Worth a look in 12-team leagues

Tony Moeaki, Chiefs - Moeaki followed up a 3/21/1 performance in Week 1 with five receptions and 58 yards as Matt Cassel's go-to receiver against the Browns. His ten targets in Week 2 were twice as many as any other Chiefs receiver. I wouldn't feel comfortable starting him just yet in the Chiefs' dismal passing attack, but he's worth a look as a backup.

Recommendation: Worth a look in 12-team leagues

Martellus Bennett, Cowboys - Jason Witten (concussion) expects to play this week, but it's no lock. He'll have to pass his baseline tests first and then be cleared by the team's medical staff. If Bennett draws the start, he would make for an interesting one-game fill-in against a Texans defense that surrendered a combined 126 yards to Chris Cooley and Fred Davis in Week 2.

Recommendation: Worth a look as a fill-in

Hold Off: Brandon Pettigrew, Ben Watson, Fred Davis

Pettigrew's career game was a function of game momentum. It won't happen again. ... Watson has a better connection with Wallace than Delhomme, but he's still losing too many looks to Evan Moore. ... Davis is backup to Chris Cooley.

[SIZE=+1]Defense/Special Teams[/SIZE]

Patriots The bad news is that the Pats won't get to tee off on Trent Edwards. The good news is that Edwards actually outplayed Ryan Fitzpatrick leading up to the season. Fitzpatrick is a turnover waiting to happen behind the Bills' swinging gates up front.

Recommendation: Worth a look in 12-team leagues

Bengals - A Bengals defense that forced Joe Flacco into four interceptions in Week 2 has to be licking its chops against Jimmy Clausen in his first start. There's some letdown potential here after a huge divisional win against the Ravens, but the matchup is enticing.

Recommendation: Worth a look as a matchup play

Buccaneers - With Dennis Dixon out, the Bucs will draw a washed up Charlie Batch or an extra gimpy Byron Leftwich in a home game. The defensive game-plan is certain to be blitz-heavy this week.

Recommendation: Worth a look as a matchup play

HacheMan · Sep 22, 2010

Burning Bush
The NFL's most interesting injury of the week came in its final game on Monday night. Reggie Bush muffed a punt, dove on the ball and broke his leg. In hindsight, coach Sean Payton probably wishes he put Lance Moore back there instead of Bush, but it's too late now. The damage has been done.

The rest of the Week 2 injuries appear to be pretty minor. Andre Johnson (ankle), Ryan Mathews (ankle), Steve Smith (wrist) and Jason Witten (concussion) all look like they'll be fine.

For help digesting some of the more puzzling injuries, we chatted with Dr. Brian Eckenrode, a board-certified orthopedic clinical specialist and the sports team leader for GSPP Penn Therapy and Fitness at the Penn Sports Medicine Center in Philadelphia.

Editor's Note: For early rankings every Tuesday morning, tons of exclusive columns, subscriber-only chats, full projections updated all week and much more, get our award-winning Season Pass.

<BIG>REGGIE BUSH</BIG>
Injury: Fracture of the upper fibula in his right leg
Timetable: Expected to miss 4-6 weeks

How serious is this? What exactly is the upper fibula? The fibula is the bone on the outside of your lower leg. It's the bone that goes from the outside of your knee to the outside part of your ankle. So because it's Bush's upper fibula, it means the fracture is closer to his knee.

Bush does not need surgery. I assume that's a good thing? They'll go in and do surgery if the fracture is in multiple pieces or if there is something else more complicated that the doctors are concerned won't heal right. Clean breaks usually don't need surgery. For Bush, it doesn't sound like anything major.

What is the rehab procedure? Will he be able to stay in shape? He's not going to be able to run for four weeks. He'll definitely do some pool running, they may let him start putting weight on it in 2-3 weeks. They can put him on a bike then, or a body weight treadmill that can take weight off it.

The problem is that too much weight on it can make the healing longer. So he'll be doing stuff in the pool to keep his conditioning up. You're looking at least a month off and then another week or two when he's maybe not 100 percent but well enough to play a portion of a game.

Will he return at 100 percent? Because it's in-season, he'll do everything he can to be up to where he was before the injury. He'll do a lot of cardio with his arms, core stuff, he can do stretching exercises to keep his muscles in shape But there's nothing quite like being at game speed, so that's why I say he'll need a game or two to get back to full speed.

ROTOWORLD OPINION: Bush was only a borderline flex play in PPR formats anyway. All the Saints receivers will see a small bump in targets, but the main beneficiary is Pierre Thomas. He's going to be a target monster and get extra goal-line work. Chris Ivory can be stashed in deeper formats. Note that Lance Moore had his best games when Bush was hurt a couple years ago.

<BIG>CHAD OCHOCINCO</BIG>
Injury: Cracked rib (so he says via Twitter)
Timetable: Expected to play this week

How serious is a cracked rib? The problem is isn't so much playing, the problem is breathing. Taking in deep breaths, exhaling and inhaling, that could be really problematic. Most people feel pretty decent within a week or two of a cracked rib, but if he just did this and he does really have a fracture in there, he's going to have a lot of pain taking deep breaths.

Could it affect his ability to play a full game? Obviously the risk becomes the integrity of the bone. If he takes a bad hit, he could really do some damage because it's not 100 percent. The real big thing is being able to run. It's probably more the pain than anything, depending on where it is. If it's higher up, when he's reaching up to catch it could limit flexibility when he reaches up to make a catch. Even falling on it, making a diving catch, he's going to feel it.

ROTOWORLD OPINION: If Chad was serious about his tweet, there's concern here. If he can't breath well, his snap count could be limited. Check practice reports this week to see where he's at.

Editor's Note: Pick a new fantasy team just for today and win real cash with Snapdraft!

<BIG>PERCY HARVIN</BIG>
Injury: Hip strain, no structural damage
Timetable: Questionable for Week 3

What exactly is a hip strain? It could be anything from a pulled muscle to a contusion of the muscle. It doesn't sound like anything bone-related going on. It just may be the muscle is bruised and every time he tries to activate that muscle it's painful and he doesn't get the same strength or support off it he should. The hip is kind of the center of your core.

So it's not surprising he suffered an aggravation last week? He took a helmet to it, so with that contusion, you're going to get increased blood flow, or what's called a hematoma. Whether its up in the bone or on the muscle, it's a bad bruise, bad contusion. So every time he tries to push off on it, he feels pain.

What's his prognosis going forward? This is something that's just going to take some time to recover from. He could be out there playing but he could be limited. He should be able to at least attempt to play through it. If he falls on it hard, he's going to be come up limping. If he takes another shot there, certainly it's going extend the problem.

ROTOWORLD OPINION: As we saw last week, this is the kind of injury that can flare up in a game. It's a high-risk, high-reward gamble that owners need to calculate. There are certainly safer options out there.

<BIG>BEANIE WELLS</BIG>
Injury: Knee bruise or sprain
Timetable: Questionable for Week 3

Beanie has now been out almost month with this issue. Is it possible there is more going on here than a bruise? My guess would be that they've sent him for an MRI and imaging by now. Obviously if it's dragging on this long, they need to make sure there's nothing structural going on like a fracture or cartilage damage or meniscus type injury. Certainly something this long, you worry that there's something more structural going on that wasn't initially picked up.

He wasn't even close to suiting up in Week 2, what does that tell you? It's important to remember that the more time he misses, the more time away from game shape he's getting. Even if he comes back this week, I think he'll be ramped up slowly.

Have you ever heard of knee bruise causing someone to miss this much time? Well, some of them can be pretty bad, depending on the spot. I can't say that we've had any patients that have taken this long, but most of our patients aren't on million dollar contracts. The Cardinals may just protecting their investment. If they were fighting for a playoff spot in Week 12 or 13 , maybe he would have been in there.

ROTOWORLD OPINION: Owners need to be patient with Wells. He'll be eased in slowly but should eventually become the bell cow. It's just going to take some time.

<BIG>MICHAEL TURNER</BIG>
Injury: Mild groin strain
Timetable: Expected to play in Week 3

The Falcons said he could have gone back in the game Sunday. Does that mean he's a lock to play this week? If he was well enough to go back, that almost certainly means he won't be taking time off. Now certainly because he's got a little tweak, we've seen where guys go back too soon and the injury progresses and it gets a little more severe. But the fact that they were ready to send him back in if they needed ... doesn't seem to me that it will be anything that holds him back.

Any chance he'll be limited in cuts, speed? It sounds like its mild enough. it's not like he's missed three weeks and he's coming back cautiously.

ROTOWORLD OPINION: Start Turner with confidence. You can't be afraid of an aggravation with a player this good. Owners should be handcuffing Jason Snelling just in case.

The Upenn rehab specialists interviewed in this story have not examined the athletes discussed. Their statements are general guidelines regarding their experience with injured athletes, and should not be taken as medical opinions.

For more information on Brian Eckenrode, PT, DPT, OCS and GSPP Penn Therapy and Fitness, visit phillyrehab.com.



<BIG>TUESDAY HEADLINES</BIG>

NEWS OF THE DAY #1
Michael Vick was shockingly named the Eagles' starting quarterback for the rest of the season. Check out my take on the fallout here.

NEWS OF THE DAY #2
Larry Johnson was predictably cut by the Redskins after he got benched last week. He doesn't play on special teams, has a bad attitude, and is no longer an even average runner. Keiland Williams is now the backup to injury-prone starter Clinton Portis and should be added in most formats. We know what coach Mike Shanahan has done with unknown backs in the past.

NEWS OF THE DAY #3
Braylon Edwards was arrested for DWI early Tuesday morning with a BAC twice the legal limit. Although the NFL can't suspend Edwards because it's his first alcohol-related offense, the Jets are going to set a standard here. They have a lot of questionable characters on this team and making an example out of Edwards is a fine idea. He will not start this week's game against the Dolphins but will dress.

Owners should not be using on Edwards in lineups, with David Clowney and Jerricho Cotchery getting extra opportunities. Look for a run-heavy attack out of the Jets.

NEWS OF THE DAY #4
The Vincent Jackson saga continues Tuesday without a resolution, mainly because the Chargers won't budge. They are reportedly asking for two second-round picks, a steep price to pay considering the team acquiring Jackson will also have to sign the receiver to a monster contract. Hang on to V-Jax until Wednesday's 4 p.m. ET deadline, but the Chargers will have to lower their asking price for a deal to go down.

Editor's Note: Pick a new fantasy team just for today and win real cash with Snapdraft!

INJURY QUICK SLANTS
Jerious Norwood (torn ACL) is out for the season. He wasn't even a handcuff anyway. ... Kevin Faulk (torn ACL) is out for the season. Look for Sammy Morris' role to increase on third downs. ... Anthony Gonzalez (ankle) is out 4-6 weeks. He's waiver wire fodder. ... Jake Delhomme is still in a boot and may have a high ankle sprain. Look for Seneca Wallace under center again this week.

DEPTH CHART QUICK SLANTS
The Packers don't plan on letting Brandon Jackson carry the load as a feature back. He'll be splitting work with John Kuhn and Dimitri Nance. Consider Jackson a weak RB2 at this point. ... ESPN's Adam Schefter predicts that Bruce Gradkowski will start over Jason Campbell this week. ... Byron Leftwich is tentatively expected to start for the Steelers this week. Upgrade Mike Wallace slightly. ... Brandon Jacobs was merely fined, not suspended, for throwing his helmet into the stands Sunday night.

HacheMan · Sep 23, 2010

Matchups: Maximizing Mendy
Just 8-of-32 teams remain undefeated through two weeks. Teams with talent-rich offenses like the Cowboys and Ravens have performed well below expectations. Even the Packers and Saints haven't hit their strides.

But talent rises in the NFL. Tony Romo and Drew Brees aren't going to finish outside the top-10 fantasy quarterbacks, and it'll be a quick climb for receivers and running backs like Randy Moss, Ray Rice, and DeAngelo Williams, who all rank in the 24-30 range at their respective positions. Keep your studs going.

With two games in the books, however, we're beginning to formulate a good idea as to which front sevens are leaky and pass defenses soft. As the weeks go by, difficult matchups will become easier to separate from the cinches. We'll kick off the Week 3 breakdown with a tilt between an overachieving 2-0 team and a winless underachiever.

[SIZE=+1]1:00PM ET Games[/SIZE]

San Francisco @ Kansas City

A week after a surprise stifling by Seattle, Frank Gore reasserted himself as a top-five RB1 in a 168-yard Monday night thrashing of the Saints. It would've included two TDs as opposed to one had Gore not uncharacteristically "tapped out" after a third-quarter rumble down to the goal line. Anthony Dixon executed, but Gore atoned a quarter later from seven yards out. The reinvigorated Chiefs defense isn't as easy a matchup as usual this season, but Gore still figures to blow through it. He created explosive plays seemingly at will against New Orleans, and Niners first-round rookie linemen Anthony Davis and Mike Iupati are demonstrating impressive nastiness up front.

Michael Crabtree continued to disappoint (1-32, three targets) against the Saints, but the first step for Crabtree to realize his potential was for Alex Smith to improve. Smith certainly did in one of the better performances of his career. It'd be hard to blame owners for benching Crabtree after two slow weeks, but he'll get it together soon enough. He's a WR3 at Kansas City. ... Vernon Davis is the No. 7 fantasy tight end through two games. He's picking up the slack with Crabtree yet to emerge from his shell. ... Josh Morgan stepped up for a 6-70 line on eight targets Monday night after a three-catch, 32-yard opener. Don't get excited. The torch will soon pass to Crabtree.

Thomas Jones took over as the Chiefs' lead back in Week 2, garnering 23 touches to Jamaal Charles' 12. Jones is the favorite for between-the-tackles carries, so the best guess is that coach Todd Haley saw something on tape to convince him Cleveland was vulnerable up the gut. Haley has made it clear that his priority is winning games -- not necessarily playing the best player -- so Charles owners can't count on an imminent changing of the guard with Kansas City sitting at 2-0. Charles should still reassume a major role against a 49ers defense that is leakier on the exterior than inside. You just can't bench Charles' big-play ability. Jones is totally hands-off for this one.

The Chiefs' passing game was lifeless for a second straight week against the Browns, with Matt Cassel throwing for a scoreless 176 yards on 28 attempts (6.3 YPA) and two interceptions. Tony Moeaki was his primary receiver, seeing a game-high 10 targets. Moeaki will be inconsistent as all rookie tight ends are, but he's becoming a serious drain on Dwayne Bowe. Regardless of the opponent, it's hard to consider Bowe more than a WR3 when he's caught five passes for 58 yards and no touchdowns in two games. ... Chris Chambers has been even less visible, sitting on four grabs for 47 yards. Chiefs targets so far: Moeaki 14, Bowe 10, Chambers 9, Dexter McCluster 7.

Buffalo @ New England

Tom Brady ranks sixth among fantasy QBs despite starting the season against back-to-back top-six 2009 pass defenses (Jets, Bengals). Brady defines the term "matchup-proof starter." He now squares off with a Buffalo team that allowed three Aaron Rodgers TDs in Week 2. ... Losing DC Perry Fewell and DE Aaron Schobel has turned a once impenetrable Bills pass defense into a mediocre unit. George Edwards' group has produced just three sacks in two games, and it's almost shocking that Edwards is sticking with burnable Drayton Florence over Leodis McKelvin at RCB. Randy Moss and Wes Welker should run wild on the Buffalo back end. The Jets had to use double teams to contain both in Week 2. Welker and Moss still had a touchdown apiece.

The Bills have also shown vulnerability to tight ends, allowing Dolphins plodder Anthony Fasano to account for over 25 percent of Miami's receiving yards in Week 1 before Packers TEs combined for a 5-102 line last Sunday. Aaron Hernandez's snap counts will be up-and-down as a rookie, but he's running far more pass routes than Rob Gronkowski and Alge Crumpler. Hernandez is, at the very least, a high-upside TE2. ... Kevin Faulk's year-ending ACL tear doesn't impact Fred Taylor, but Taylor remains the best bet for semi-consistent carries in the backfield. BenJarvus Green-Ellis certainly didn't earn a bigger role moving forward with 19 yards on 10 totes in Week 2.

50 on the Wonderlic and all, so he's got the intelligence thing going. Ryan Fitzpatrick's insertion probably won't net Buffalo wins, but he's at least smart enough to throw the ball to the Bills' best receiver. Fitzpatrick, whose value lies in his ability to add a brief "spark" to an offense (he's done it throughout his career in spot duty), hooked up with Lee Evans five times for 75 yards and a score in his first of eight starts last year. Evans, typically the Bills' LWR, also gets a favorable matchup with Patriots RCB Darius Butler. Butler was burned relentlessly by Chad Ochocinco in Week 1 (12-159-1), and according to Pro Football Focus yielded a 5-74-1 line in Week 2 with two pass-interference flags against a previously inept Jets passing game. Evans is a WR3 sleeper.

The Bills probably aren't smart enough to capitalize, but the Pats' pass defense has soft spots over the middle and underneath. So far, Jordan Shipley (5-82), Jermaine Gresham (6-25-1), and Dustin Keller (7-115-1) have exploited them. Though Buffalo lacks a pass-catching tight end, it would be smart to work C.J. Spiller on frequent slot routes. But that's too much wishful thinking. ... Coach Chan Gailey has vowed that Marshawn Lynch will "play a lot" in Week 3 after starting and leading the team in Week 2 touches. Lynch does appear to be the favorite for carries in Buffalo, but it's not like he's playing well (3.9 YPC, no scores) or has a favorable matchup. This is a situation to avoid. The Bills' line can't block, and all the roles are up for grabs week to week.

Atlanta @ New Orleans

The Saints' fantasy production hasn't been up to their usual standards, but the offense has been pretty darn good. New Orleans has yet to turn the ball over, and Drew Brees' 74.3 completion rate is better than his NFL-record mark from 2009. Touchdowns will come. Brees lit up Atlanta for an average of 302 yards per game with a 5:1 TD-to-INT ratio in last year's meetings. ... Reggie Bush's 4-6 week upper fibula fracture locks in Pierre Thomas as the Saints' workhorse. Thomas was already the heavy favorite for goal-line carries, and now inherits passing-down work. P.T. will flirt with 30 touches against a Falcons defense surrendering a league-worst 5.9 yards per carry.

Keep an eye on Lance Moore. He's New Orleans' second-best slot option, and has capitalized in Bush's past absences. Moore has 23 yards through two games, though, so he can't be counted on yet. ... Robert Meachem has been almost as quiet as Moore, seeing five targets on the year and catching three balls. He continues to play behind Devery Henderson (5-66-1, eight targets). ... In 2008 and at times in 2009, some owners wondered if Marques Colston had "lost" his role as the Saints' No. 1 receiver. Colston has clearly regained it, seeing nearly double the targets of any other New Orleans wideout. He also scored in each of the Saints' 2009 games against Atlanta.

Matt Ryan's confidence in Roddy White is unwavering. Despite being shadowed by Cardinals top CB Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie in Week 2, White saw 12 targets for a 7-78-1 line. White's 35 targets through two weeks lead the league, and he's tied with Miles Austin for first in receptions. ... The outlook is much worse for Tony Gonzalez. Despite 37 throws from Ryan last week, Gonzo managed just two catches for 19 yards after a two-catch, 35-yard opener. Gonzalez can't be dropped, but there has to be some concern that the 34-year-old has lost a step. If not two.

In their last five games dating back to January, the Saints have a 4:6 TD-to-INT ratio against. Matt Ryan isn't an awful QB1 in what could be a Superdome shootout, but someone like Michael Vick would be better. ... Atlanta's receiver corps, including Gonzalez, continues to be a fantasy wasteland after White. Eric Weems started over Harry Douglas in Week 2, and Michael Jenkins is coming back. ... Jason Snelling's three-TD effort off the bench was a nice story against Arizona, but there's no doubt that Michael Turner is the better early-down backfield option. Turner (groin) will start against a Saints team allowing the fifth-highest yards-per-carry average (4.8) in football.

Pittsburgh @ Tampa Bay

Josh Freeman is impressive in the face of pressure, but he'll see more of it this week than he has in his young career. The Steelers' defense has been dominant. In two games they've picked off four passes and allowed one passing touchdown -- and not until they'd already knocked Vince Young out of last week's game. OLBs James Harrison and LaMarr Woodley have combined for five sacks, three forced fumbles, and an interception. ILB Lawrence Timmons ranks second in the league in tackles. Woodley, in particular, could have a monster game against struggling Bucs RT Jeremy Trueblood. Freeman will have a tough time going deep to wideout Mike Williams.

Cadillac Williams opened the year with what appeared to be back-to-back favorable matchups in the Browns and Panthers. He's managed just a 2.57 yards-per-carry average with no scores, and it's scary to think how badly he'll fare against the Steelers. Pittsburgh has held Michael Turner and Chris Johnson to 2.17 YPC in the first two games. ... Playing on no practice time due to pain in his six-times surgically-repaired knee last week, Kellen Winslow was a medical marvel with four catches for an explosive 83 yards. It's getting hard to doubt him as at least a low-end TE1.

With Ben Roethlisberger suspended until Week 6 and Dennis Dixon (knee) out, Mike Tomlin has somewhat surprisingly tabbed Charlie Batch over Byron Leftwich at quarterback. We can safely expect the Steelers to go run heavy. Rashard Mendenhall has received 24 touches in each of the first two weeks, and should flirt with 30 against the Bucs. It could be a long day for Tampa, which served up 170 total yards to Panthers RBs in Week 2. ... Heath Miller, who caught two balls for three yards last Sunday, will continue to focus on blocking as opposed to pass-route running with LT Max Starks coming off an injury and RT Flozell Adams struggling across the board.

Bucs CB Aqib Talib returned from his suspension in Week 2, and was immediately pressed into shadow coverage duty against Carolina's Steve Smith. After shutting him down for four yards on one grab in the same role last year, Talib helped hold Smith to three catches on eight targets, though the cornerback slipped on a second-quarter route in the slot, resulting in Smitty's 35-yard TD catch. It remains to be seen which Steelers receiver Talib will cover. Mike Wallace is more dangerous, while Hines Ward has the better track record. With Batch under center, owners should steer clear of Wallace. He relies more on big-play ability at quarterback than Ward.



Tennessee @ NY Giants

A week after flashing 2008 form by bottling up Carolina's Double-Trouble backfield for 74 yards on 21 carries (3.5 YPC), the Giants reverted to their 2009 ways in Week 2, as the far less talented Colts ground game gashed them for 161 yards and a score on 36 totes (4.5 YPC). The G-Men were dropping seven into coverage, but they've yet to earn recognition as a stout defense. Chris Johnson can't be benched. ... Kenny Britt reappeared for a 5-41 line in Week 2 after a catch-less opener. Six of his seven targets came via Kerry Collins, however, and Britt is still only playing in three-receiver sets. You can't drop Britt's talent, but he's not playing enough to be start-worthy.

Vince Young returns from his surprise Week 2 benching as Tennessee's clear-cut starter. The Giants have faced two completely opposite passing offenses (Carolina, Indianapolis) so far, so it's difficult to gauge the effectiveness of their pass defense. Either way, it's a wait-and-see week for V.Y., who hasn't responded well to past benchings. ... Titans WR/TE targets on the year: Nate Washington 13, Britt 7, Justin Gage 6, Bo Scaife 6. Washington, who's scored in back-to-back weeks, remains the Titans' only usable receiving option in fantasy leagues. And he's only a WR3.

Hakeem Nicks admits his ankle wasn't 100 percent in Week 2, but his ridiculous talent still shined through enough to whip Colts top cornerback Kelvin Hayden down the right sideline for a 31-yard touchdown, giving Nicks his fourth score of the season. The 2009 first-round pick is now off the injury report and 100 percent. He'll retake his every-down split end role (and high-upside WR2 status) with Mario Manningham moving back into a situational deep threat role. Manningham isn't a fantasy option in this one. ... Through two weeks, the Titans rank No. 1 in pass defense. Their safety play is light years ahead of where it was last year, with FS Michael Griffin returning to his 2008 Pro Bowl form and Chris Hope bringing physicality. Eli Manning is a mere low-end QB1.

New York's Steve Smith hasn't taken a backseat to Nicks just yet, pacing the Giants in catches (9) and targets (17). Despite the unfavorable on-paper matchup, Smith remains a solid WR2 in PPR leagues. He's more of a WR3 in non-PPR. ... As if his lack of productivity wasn't enough (3.3 YPC, no touchdowns), Brandon Jacobs' helmet-throwing debacle will likely land him in coach Tom Coughlin's doghouse for the foreseeable future. Don't be surprised to see Danny Ware play ahead of him on Sunday. ... Ahmad Bradshaw is averaging 19.5 touches for 91 yards per game with one touchdown. The Titans have been more vulnerable on the ground than in the air so far.

Detroit @ Minnesota

Not that you need convincing to use Adrian Peterson, but he led all running backs with 33 touches in Week 2, and will be the centerpiece of Minnesota's offense going forward. Through two weeks, Detroit has permitted a whopping 437 total yards and five TDs to opposing RBs. Peterson is on pace for 64 receptions, which would be a career high. ... A.P. handcuffers should note that Albert Young was a healthy scratch last week. Rookie Toby Gerhart has taken over as Peterson's clear-cut backup and had five touches against Miami. ... Visanthe Shiancoe has led the Vikes in targets in two straight weeks, looking more athletic in the open field than ever. He's an every-week TE1.

The imploding Bernard Berrian isn't even a WR3 option in his most favorable matchup all year. He just doesn't fight for the ball. Two of Berrian's five targets were picked off by former first-round bust Jason Allen in Week 2. At least he made an effort to tackle Allen after the second. And Berrian wonders why Brett Favre won't throw to him. With a knee injury, he's totally hands off. ... Percy Harvin is expected to play despite recurring hip and migraine issues. Harvin possesses major upside any time he's on the field. He also presents risk. Until we see a hint of consistency, he's a mere WR3. ... Favre is off to one of the slowest starts of his career, but remains hard to sit against the Lions, even with no receivers. Only 2-of-32 teams have given up more passing yards.

Losers of 21 straight on the road, the Lions enter this one with a new offensive centerpiece. NFL TD leader Jahvid Best caught more passes (9) than any tailback in football last week. The Vikes' run defense remains stout (3.7 YPC allowed), but looks vulnerable on the perimeter after giving up nearly half of their Week 2 rushing yards to Ronnie Brown on a 51-yard run off left tackle, and with WLB Ben Leber nursing a bad back. Lions coach Jim Schwartz knows a mismatch when he sees one, and Best is his best way to exploit them. There isn't a hotter running back going. ... The Eagles took Tony Scheffler out of last week's game by shadowing him with a defensive back. The result? A fluky seven-catch, 108-yard outing for Brandon Pettigrew. Don't expect that to keep up.

Calvin Johnson will see lots of double coverage going forward -- especially with Nate Burleson out (high ankle sprain) -- but he's at least producing with Hill under center. Since replacing Matthew Stafford at halftime of Week 1, Hill has targeted Megatron 20 times in six quarters, producing eight hookups for 95 yards and a touchdown. It should be 9-120-2, of course. The Vikes remain beatable in the secondary, with CB Chris Cook set to make his NFL debut ... Hill did much of his Week 2 damage (335 yards, two TDs) in garbage time. He's a two-QB league option. ... Bryant Johnson will start for Burleson. Johnson was perhaps the NFL's worst starting receiver in 2009.

Cleveland @ Baltimore

Multiple tweeters have expressed concern that Ray Rice may be in for a "mediocre year" with no touchdowns through two weeks. Rice does lose goal-line carries to Willis McGahee, which is the primary reason he wasn't considered closer to Chris Johnson and Adrian Peterson in fantasy drafts. Expect a breakout game against the Browns. Coach John Harbaugh is on record as saying Rice will receive a season-high workload in Week 3, and Baltimore will dominate in its home opener against an inept Cleveland team. The Browns rank 25th in run defense, and were exposed by Chiefs running backs for 164 total yards last Sunday. The Ravens' line is far better than Kansas City's, and Rice is a much better runner than Week 2 feature carrier Thomas Jones.

Joe Flacco will undoubtedly improve on his Week 2 four-pick implosion, but he's got a long way to go to realize his alleged breakout year. His mechanics, particularly on short touch throws, are all off kilter. Harbaugh is poised to go run heavy against a Browns team playing the pass well (2:3 TD-to-INT ratio against), so Flacco should only be viewed as a QB2 until he shows something. ... Anquan Boldin is still an every-week starter. Among Baltimore receivers, he's dominating targets with 18, while Derrick Mason (11) and T.J. Houshmandzadeh (10) are all but canceling each other out. Todd Heap has 17, though 11 came in the opener and he had a mere 35 yards in Week 2.

The Browns will really struggle to generate first downs in the Ravens' home opener. Week 2 starting tailback Jerome Harrison (thigh, wrist) is questionable, and Baltimore won't struggle to bottle up the non-elusive running styles of Peyton Hillis. Hillis might score if the Browns get down to the one-yard line, but you can't bank on that happening. Baltimore hasn't allowed a rushing TD yet. Should Harrison not play, James Davis would take his role in the value-draining committee.

Seneca Wallace draws another start with Jake Delhomme (high ankle sprain) still out indefinitely. Wallace has never started a game against the Ravens. Make sure to use their fantasy defense. ... Hillis and Ben Watson are tied for the team lead in receptions (7), while backup TE Evan Moore leads the way in yards (87), with all of them coming in the opener. Mohamed Massaquoi had one catch for nine yards in Week 2. Joshua Cribbs might start if Brian Robiskie (hamstring) can't, but Cribbs is averaging 4.5 offensive touches per week. Avoid the Browns' receiver/tight end corps.

Cincinnati @ Carolina

I was startled this week to notice a column on a competing website forecast the demise of Steve Smith due to Jimmy Clausen's insertion. Foolishness. The writer must not have seen Matt Moore play in Weeks 1 and 2. The Panthers have done a terrific job of double-coverage prevention on Smith's behalf, working him often in the slot, where double teams are nearly impossible. He's scored in back-to-back games, and both TDs came on slot routes. ... Clausen may struggle as all rookie quarterbacks do, but his strength is delivering the ball to the open man. Clausen led the nation in passer-efficiency rating among pro-style QBs last year, completing 68 percent with a 28:4 TD-to-INT ratio. It took five minutes for Clausen to rack up as many completions in Week 2 as Moore did in three-plus quarters. And all Smith needs is completions. He'll do the rest.

He's not a fantasy option yet, but the arrow is starting to point up for Jonathan Stewart. His carry total jumped from five to eight in Week 2, and he out-produced DeAngelo Williams per-attempt (5.4 to 3.2). Stewart is fighting for touches. They're not all the way there yet, but they're coming. ... Though he's yet to find the end zone, D-Will needs to stay in lineups even against a formidable Bengals front seven. Williams is getting the ball 18 times a game, and is far and away the best bet for catches in Carolina's backfield. The Panthers will lean on Williams in Clausen's first start.

Carolina is allowing just 3.0 yards per carry while getting impressive play from no-name DTs Derek Landri and Ed Johnson, but it's doubtful to last. The inexperienced, undersized front four is bound to tire, forcing LBs Jon Beason and Dan Connor to make more of their tackles downfield. Keep Cedric Benson going. ... Jordan Shipley needs a Chad Ochocinco or Terrell Owens injury to be a fantasy starter, but he's certainly roster-worthy in PPR leagues. He's got five catches in back-to-back games. ... After a six-catch, one-touchdown opener, Jermaine Gresham confirmed he'll be another inconsistent rookie tight end with just 15 yards in Week 2. He's a fantasy reserve.

A stout unit in 2009, Carolina's back four has disappointed in 2010. Despite matchups with the less-than-stellar passing offenses of Tampa and New York (NFC), the Panthers surrendered a league-high five touchdowns through the air and an 8.0 yards-per-pass attempt average, way up from 6.6 last season. DC Ron Meeks should get it figured out (he doesn't lack talent), but it's worth striking while the iron his hot. Chad Ochocinco is playing like he's in a contract year (he is) as the No. 8 fantasy receiver so far. Terrell Owens has been steady, hauling in 10 balls for 110 yards. ... Carson Palmer is still a mid-range QB2. He ranks 16th among QBs in fantasy points.



Dallas @ Houston

There isn't a better WR1 in fantasy football than Miles Austin against a Texans secondary that's giving up a league-high 411 passing yards per game. Austin is leading the NFL in receiving yards and is tied with Roddy White for first in receptions. ... This should be the game that gets Tony Romo rolling. Romo is completing 66-plus percent of his passes and has games of 282 and 374 yards. The touchdowns will come. ... Coach Wade Phillips spoke of "making changes" early in the week with Dallas off to an 0-2 start. The most obvious move: Replacing Roy Williams with Dez Bryant in two-receiver sets. Bryant, who returned a punt 62 yards for a touchdown in Week 2, has too much playmaking ability to be on a struggling team's bench. Keep an eye on his rib injury.

Jason Witten was furious at Dallas doctors for refusing to let him reenter last week's loss to the Bears after a fourth-quarter concussion. A true competitor, Witten has been cleared to face a Texans team exploitable by tight ends. Dallas Clark dropped an 11-80-1 line on them in Week 1, and Chris Cooley and Fred Davis combined for 126 yards and a score against Houston in Week 2. ... Despite the talent in Dallas' backfield, it's all but barren of fantasy value. Here are the carry and yardage totals on the year: Marion Barber 19-70, Felix Jones 15-45, Tashard Choice 6-17. The Texans also haven't allowed an opposing back top 44 yards in a game yet. Look elsewhere.

Houston will be without suspended LT Duane Brown in this one, but Chicago provided a blueprint last week to beat Dallas without a starting left tackle. The formula relies on short-to-intermediate throws, testing the Cowboys' range-deficient inside linebackers and green safety corps. It does allow for the occasional deep shot (see Johnny Knox's 86-yard game), but a possession receiver like Kevin Walter could be headed for a big role. Walter, coming off a dominant 11-catch, 144-yard performance, is a strong WR3. ... Owen Daniels continues to labor through the early part of the season after a 2009 ACL tear, and subsequent offseason setback. He's not a fantasy option.

Andre Johnson and Matt Schaub are matchup-proof starters. Johnson dominates at all three levels, and his Week 2 ankle sprain won't keep him out of this battle for the state of Texas. ... The Cowboys' run defense has been one of their few strengths, holding enemy RBs to 2.97 yards per carry without a single touchdown. Arian Foster is the NFL's rushing leader, though, and can't be benched in a game Vegas projects as the third-highest scoring of Week 3 (ATL @ NO is first, IND @ DEN second). Also tied for the league lead in touches through two weeks, Foster is a safe bet to find pay dirt. He's averaging 155 total yards per game with six TDs in his last four starts.

[SIZE=+1]4:05PM ET Games[/SIZE]

Washington @ St. Louis

Through two weeks, Santana Moss ranks fifth in the NFL in targets and third in catches. And he's going to stay among the league leaders in both categories with no one stepping up in the No. 2 receiver spot. Moss is running more underneath routes after switching from split end to flanker. He's been of the best values in 2010 fantasy drafts. ... Another terrific value is Chris Cooley, who caught his first regular season touchdown from Donovan McNabb in Week 2 and is currently the No. 5 fantasy tight end. Cooley fell to the double-digit rounds in many drafts. The Rams won't contain Cooley with SS Craig Dahl battling a concussion and backup James Butler exhibiting an extraordinary loss of speed after a preseason knee injury. Butler isn't anywhere near 100 percent.

After a slow opener, McNabb turned it on with 426 yards and a TD in a Week 2 shootout loss to Houston. The Rams' pass defense isn't playing as badly as the Texans', but it's close. You'll definitely want to start McNabb, who received extra motivation this week after seeing his alleged successor in Philly benched. ... Clinton Portis is averaging 3.0 yards per touch. Starting RBs are always worthwhile plays against the Rams, but rookie Keiland Williams is likely to begin eating into Portis' workload shortly. In fact, it wouldn't be a shock if the Redskins jumped out to an early lead and Williams was given a healthy dose of carries in St. Louis. Williams should be owned in all leagues, and is realistically just as good a bet as Portis to be starting games down the stretch.

Rams coming soon.

Philadelphia @ Jacksonville

In a surprise only to those who didn't watch the Eagles' first two games, coach Andy Reid tabbed Michael Vick Tuesday as the team's starting quarterback going forward. The job was earned, as Vick has produced 599 total yards and accounted for three TDs in just over six full quarters, while leading Philly to its first 2010 win in Week 2. He now faces a Jaguars pass defense that's allowed more yards per pass attempt (10.1) than any team in the league, and more pass plays of 20-plus yards (11) than any AFC team. Vick is an elite fantasy option again. ... Vick's targets on the year thus far: DeSean Jackson 14, Jason Avant 12, Jeremy Maclin 10, Brent Celek 8. ... Jackson, the recipient of four catches for 135 yards and a touchdown from Vick last week, is forming the best rapport with Philadelphia's new quarterback. He's averaging an otherworldly 20.6 yards per catch.

More Eagles, Jaguars coming soon.

[SIZE=+1]4:15PM ET Games[/SIZE]

San Diego @ Seattle

Coming soon.

--RW-->

Oakland @ Arizona

Coming soon.

Indianapolis @ Denver

Coming soon.

[SIZE=+1]Sunday Night Football[/SIZE]

NY Jets @ Miami

Coming soon.

[SIZE=+1]Monday Night Football[/SIZE]

Green Bay @ Chicago

Mike Martz is already working magic in Chicago. The Bears lost LT Chris Williams to a hamstring injury early in last week's game, inserted Frank Omiyale, and took apart Dallas with short-to-intermediate throws. Jay Cutler was fantastic, evading pressure and pinpointing passes to Johnny Knox, Greg Olsen, and Devin Hester. Cutler's got the best playcaller in football on his side, and renewed self confidence. He's a matchup-proof starter until proven otherwise. ... Unfortunately, Devin Aromashodu went from the Bears' target leader in Week 1 to a special teamer in Week 2. After three drops in the opener, he was yanked from three-receiver sets in favor of Earl Bennett. Aromashodu can stay on deep league rosters, but Bennett is the new favorite for snaps in the slot.

HacheMan · Sep 23, 2010

Week 3 Rankings
It took two weeks to change the perception of Jay Cutler and the Chicago Bears offense. Cutler started the offseason full of hype, yet went into the year undervalued. I didn't feel especially high on Cutler – Silva and Wesseling both ranked him higher when we came up with our magazine evaluations. But I wound up owning Cutler in two of my three leagues because Fantasy Nation decided Sweet Baby Jay was toxic after a discouraging preseason.

(Note: I've never been in fewer than 8-9 leagues because of work until now. Three is awesome. Highly recommended.)

In two weeks, Devin Aromashodu went from everyone's favorite sleeper to fantasy waiver wires. Earl Bennett has taken his role. Aromoshadu will probably have a few big weeks, but I don't think he's worth waiting for in most formats. (For what it's worth, Rotoworld listed Aromashodu on our busts list.) The big question in Chicago was whether Cutler had enough weapons. The mistake was looking only at wide receiver.

Greg Olsen has proven to be a far bigger factor in Mike Martz's scheme than anyone imagined. I'm not convinced Olsen can be consistent in fantasy leagues, but the team essentially uses Olsen as a wideout, not a tight end. Chester Taylor completed the offense. He's not playing a ton of snaps, but his presence guarantees that an elite pass-catching back is in the game at all times.

Most importantly, Cutler is slinging the ball again. He's making throws other quarterbacks simply can't make. He's always been aggressive, which suits Martz's offense perfectly.

This week against Green Bay provides another test for Cutler, but he's shown me enough. I'm willing to live with a few ups, downs, and interception. He's not coming out of my lineup.

[SIZE=+1]Week 3 Quarterbacks[/SIZE]

<TABLE width="100%"><TBODY><TR class=TableTopRed><TD>Rank</TD><TD>Player Name</TD><TD>Opponent</TD><TD>Notes</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>1</TD><TD>Aaron Rodgers</TD><TD>at CHI</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>2</TD><TD>Peyton Manning</TD><TD>at DEN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>3</TD><TD>Drew Brees</TD><TD>vs. ATL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>4</TD><TD>Tony Romo</TD><TD>at HOU</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>5</TD><TD>Matt Schaub</TD><TD>vs. DAL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>6</TD><TD>Tom Brady</TD><TD>vs. BUF</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>7</TD><TD>Michael Vick</TD><TD>at JAC</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>8</TD><TD>Philip Rivers</TD><TD>at SEA</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>9</TD><TD>Jay Cutler</TD><TD>vs. GB</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>10</TD><TD>Donovan McNabb</TD><TD>at STL</TD><TD>Questionable(ankle)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>11</TD><TD>Brett Favre</TD><TD>vs. DET</TD><TD>Probable(ankle)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>12</TD><TD>Kyle Orton</TD><TD>vs. IND</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>13</TD><TD>Eli Manning</TD><TD>vs. TEN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>14</TD><TD>Matt Ryan</TD><TD>at NO</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>15</TD><TD>Joe Flacco</TD><TD>vs. CLE</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>16</TD><TD>Carson Palmer</TD><TD>at CAR</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>17</TD><TD>Vince Young</TD><TD>at NYG</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>18</TD><TD>David Garrard</TD><TD>vs. PHI</TD><TD>Probable(back)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>19</TD><TD>Matt Hasselbeck</TD><TD>vs. SD</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>20</TD><TD>Sam Bradford</TD><TD>vs. WAS</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>21</TD><TD>Alex Smith</TD><TD>at KC</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>22</TD><TD>Shaun Hill</TD><TD>at MIN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>23</TD><TD>Matt Cassel</TD><TD>vs. SF</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>24</TD><TD>Chad Henne</TD><TD>vs. NYJ</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>25</TD><TD>Mark Sanchez</TD><TD>at MIA</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>26</TD><TD>Derek Anderson</TD><TD>vs. OAK</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>27</TD><TD>Bruce Gradkowski</TD><TD>at ARZ</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>28</TD><TD>Josh Freeman</TD><TD>vs. PIT</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>29</TD><TD>Jimmy Clausen</TD><TD>vs. CIN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>30</TD><TD>Ryan Fitzpatrick</TD><TD>at NE</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>31</TD><TD>Seneca Wallace</TD><TD>at BAL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>32</TD><TD>Charlie Batch</TD><TD>at TB</TD><TD>- </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

All sorts of extra goodies over at Season Pass.

[SIZE=+1]Week 3 Running backs[/SIZE]

<TABLE width="100%"><TBODY><TR class=TableTopRed><TD>Rank</TD><TD>Player Name</TD><TD>Opponent</TD><TD>Notes</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>1</TD><TD>Chris Johnson</TD><TD>at NYG</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>2</TD><TD>Adrian Peterson</TD><TD>vs. DET</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>3</TD><TD>Ray Rice</TD><TD>vs. CLE</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>4</TD><TD>Maurice Jones-Drew</TD><TD>vs. PHI</TD><TD>Probable(ankle)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>5</TD><TD>Frank Gore</TD><TD>at KC</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>6</TD><TD>Arian Foster</TD><TD>vs. DAL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>7</TD><TD>LeSean McCoy</TD><TD>at JAC</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>8</TD><TD>Rashard Mendenhall</TD><TD>at TB</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>9</TD><TD>Jahvid Best</TD><TD>at MIN</TD><TD>Probable(toe)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>10</TD><TD>Pierre Thomas</TD><TD>vs. ATL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>11</TD><TD>Steven Jackson</TD><TD>vs. WAS</TD><TD>Probable(knee)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>12</TD><TD>Michael Turner</TD><TD>at NO</TD><TD>Sidelined(groin)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>13</TD><TD>Darren McFadden</TD><TD>at ARZ</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>14</TD><TD>Knowshon Moreno</TD><TD>vs. IND</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>15</TD><TD>DeAngelo Williams</TD><TD>vs. CIN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>16</TD><TD>Cedric Benson</TD><TD>at CAR</TD><TD>Probable(shoulder)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>17</TD><TD>Jamaal Charles</TD><TD>vs. SF</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>18</TD><TD>Matt Forte</TD><TD>vs. GB</TD><TD>Probable(knee)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>19</TD><TD>Joseph Addai</TD><TD>at DEN</TD><TD>Questionable(knee)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>20</TD><TD>Ahmad Bradshaw</TD><TD>vs. TEN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>21</TD><TD>Tim Hightower</TD><TD>vs. OAK</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>22</TD><TD>Ronnie Brown</TD><TD>vs. NYJ</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>23</TD><TD>Jonathan Stewart</TD><TD>vs. CIN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>24</TD><TD>Clinton Portis</TD><TD>at STL</TD><TD>Questionable(wrist)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>25</TD><TD>Mike Tolbert</TD><TD>at SEA</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>26</TD><TD>LaDainian Tomlinson</TD><TD>at MIA</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>27</TD><TD>Shonn Greene</TD><TD>at MIA</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>28</TD><TD>Felix Jones</TD><TD>at HOU</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>29</TD><TD>Marion Barber</TD><TD>at HOU</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>30</TD><TD>Beanie Wells</TD><TD>vs. OAK</TD><TD>Questionable(knee)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>31</TD><TD>Thomas Jones</TD><TD>vs. SF</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>32</TD><TD>Brandon Jackson</TD><TD>at CHI</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>33</TD><TD>Fred Jackson</TD><TD>at NE</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>34</TD><TD>Cadillac Williams</TD><TD>vs. PIT</TD><TD>Probable(hamstring)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>35</TD><TD>Darren Sproles</TD><TD>at SEA</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>36</TD><TD>Jerome Harrison</TD><TD>at BAL</TD><TD>Questionable(thigh)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>37</TD><TD>Ricky Williams</TD><TD>vs. NYJ</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>38</TD><TD>Justin Forsett</TD><TD>vs. SD</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>39</TD><TD>Peyton Hillis</TD><TD>at BAL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>40</TD><TD>C.J. Spiller</TD><TD>at NE</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>41</TD><TD>Willis McGahee</TD><TD>vs. CLE</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>42</TD><TD>Donald Brown</TD><TD>at DEN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>43</TD><TD>Brandon Jacobs</TD><TD>vs. TEN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>44</TD><TD>Marshawn Lynch</TD><TD>at NE</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>45</TD><TD>Jason Snelling</TD><TD>at NO</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>46</TD><TD>Fred Taylor</TD><TD>vs. BUF</TD><TD>Probable(toe)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>47</TD><TD>Chester Taylor</TD><TD>vs. GB</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>48</TD><TD>Leon Washington</TD><TD>vs. SD</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>49</TD><TD>Bernard Scott</TD><TD>at CAR</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>50</TD><TD>Steve Slaton</TD><TD>vs. DAL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>51</TD><TD>Tashard Choice</TD><TD>at HOU</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>52</TD><TD>John Kuhn</TD><TD>at CHI</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>53</TD><TD>BenJarvus Green-Ellis</TD><TD>vs. BUF</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>54</TD><TD>Keiland Williams</TD><TD>at STL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>55</TD><TD>Michael Bush</TD><TD>at ARZ</TD><TD>Questionable(thumb)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>56</TD><TD>Correll Buckhalter</TD><TD>vs. IND</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>57</TD><TD>Rashad Jennings</TD><TD>vs. PHI</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>58</TD><TD>Mike Bell</TD><TD>at JAC</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>59</TD><TD>Earnest Graham</TD><TD>vs. PIT</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>60</TD><TD>Toby Gerhart</TD><TD>vs. DET</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>61</TD><TD>Mike Goodson</TD><TD>vs. CIN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>62</TD><TD>Brian Westbrook</TD><TD>at KC</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>63</TD><TD>Isaac Redman</TD><TD>at TB</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>64</TD><TD>Javon Ringer</TD><TD>at NYG</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>65</TD><TD>Kareem Huggins</TD><TD>vs. PIT</TD><TD>Probable(groin)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>66</TD><TD>Laurence Maroney</TD><TD>vs. IND</TD><TD>Sidelined(thigh)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>67</TD><TD>Dimitri Nance</TD><TD>at CHI</TD><TD>- </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

Editor's Note: Looking for a weekly way to win money playing fantasy? Check out Snapdraft – a lot of fun.

[SIZE=+1]Week 3 Wide Receivers[/SIZE]

<TABLE width="100%"><TBODY><TR class=TableTopRed><TD>Rank</TD><TD>Player Name</TD><TD>Opponent</TD><TD>Notes</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>1</TD><TD>Andre Johnson</TD><TD>vs. DAL</TD><TD>Probable(ankle)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>2</TD><TD>Miles Austin</TD><TD>at HOU</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>3</TD><TD>Randy Moss</TD><TD>vs. BUF</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>4</TD><TD>Reggie Wayne</TD><TD>at DEN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>5</TD><TD>Roddy White</TD><TD>at NO</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>6</TD><TD>Larry Fitzgerald</TD><TD>vs. OAK</TD><TD>Probable(knee)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>7</TD><TD>DeSean Jackson</TD><TD>at JAC</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>8</TD><TD>Brandon Marshall</TD><TD>vs. NYJ</TD><TD>Probable(ankle)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>9</TD><TD>Marques Colston</TD><TD>vs. ATL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>10</TD><TD>Steve Smith</TD><TD>vs. CIN</TD><TD>Probable(thigh)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>11</TD><TD>Anquan Boldin</TD><TD>vs. CLE</TD><TD>Probable(thigh)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>12</TD><TD>Calvin Johnson</TD><TD>at MIN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>13</TD><TD>Chad Ochocinco</TD><TD>at CAR</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>14</TD><TD>Wes Welker</TD><TD>vs. BUF</TD><TD>Probable(-)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>15</TD><TD>Greg Jennings</TD><TD>at CHI</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>16</TD><TD>Hakeem Nicks</TD><TD>vs. TEN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>17</TD><TD>Steve Smith</TD><TD>vs. TEN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>18</TD><TD>Santana Moss</TD><TD>at STL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>19</TD><TD>Michael Crabtree</TD><TD>at KC</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>20</TD><TD>Mike Sims-Walker</TD><TD>vs. PHI</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>21</TD><TD>Hines Ward</TD><TD>at TB</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>22</TD><TD>Johnny Knox</TD><TD>vs. GB</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>23</TD><TD>Donald Driver</TD><TD>at CHI</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>24</TD><TD>Jeremy Maclin</TD><TD>at JAC</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>25</TD><TD>Mike Williams</TD><TD>vs. PIT</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>26</TD><TD>Dez Bryant</TD><TD>at HOU</TD><TD>Questionable(ribs)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>27</TD><TD>Austin Collie</TD><TD>at DEN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>28</TD><TD>Mark Clayton</TD><TD>vs. WAS</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>29</TD><TD>Mike Wallace</TD><TD>at TB</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>30</TD><TD>Dwayne Bowe</TD><TD>vs. SF</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>31</TD><TD>Steve Breaston</TD><TD>vs. OAK</TD><TD>Questionable(knee)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>32</TD><TD>Pierre Garcon</TD><TD>at DEN</TD><TD>Questionable(hamstring)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>33</TD><TD>Eddie Royal</TD><TD>vs. IND</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>34</TD><TD>Demaryius Thomas</TD><TD>vs. IND</TD><TD>Probable(foot)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>35</TD><TD>Percy Harvin</TD><TD>vs. DET</TD><TD>Probable(head)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>36</TD><TD>Terrell Owens</TD><TD>at CAR</TD><TD>Probable(back)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>37</TD><TD>Malcom Floyd</TD><TD>at SEA</TD><TD>Probable(hamstring)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>38</TD><TD>Jacoby Jones</TD><TD>vs. DAL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>39</TD><TD>Jerricho Cotchery</TD><TD>at MIA</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>40</TD><TD>Louis Murphy</TD><TD>at ARZ</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>41</TD><TD>Devin Hester</TD><TD>vs. GB</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>42</TD><TD>Kevin Walter</TD><TD>vs. DAL</TD><TD>Probable(-)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>43</TD><TD>Lee Evans</TD><TD>at NE</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>44</TD><TD>Derrick Mason</TD><TD>vs. CLE</TD><TD>Questionable(knee)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>45</TD><TD>Mike Williams</TD><TD>vs. SD</TD><TD>Probable(thigh)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>46</TD><TD>Legedu Naanee</TD><TD>at SEA</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>47</TD><TD>Robert Meachem</TD><TD>vs. ATL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>48</TD><TD>Mario Manningham</TD><TD>vs. TEN</TD><TD>Probable(flu)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>49</TD><TD>Mohamed Massaquoi</TD><TD>at BAL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>50</TD><TD>Nate Washington</TD><TD>at NYG</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>51</TD><TD>Braylon Edwards</TD><TD>at MIA</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>52</TD><TD>Bernard Berrian</TD><TD>vs. DET</TD><TD>Questionable(knee)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>53</TD><TD>Devery Henderson</TD><TD>vs. ATL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>54</TD><TD>Jabar Gaffney</TD><TD>vs. IND</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>55</TD><TD>Mike Thomas</TD><TD>vs. PHI</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>56</TD><TD>Roy Williams</TD><TD>at HOU</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>57</TD><TD>James Jones</TD><TD>at CHI</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>58</TD><TD>Jordan Shipley</TD><TD>at CAR</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>59</TD><TD>Chris Chambers</TD><TD>vs. SF</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>60</TD><TD>Josh Morgan</TD><TD>at KC</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>61</TD><TD>Devin Aromashodu</TD><TD>vs. GB</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>62</TD><TD>Greg Camarillo</TD><TD>vs. DET</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>63</TD><TD>Justin Gage</TD><TD>at NYG</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>64</TD><TD>Kenny Britt</TD><TD>at NYG</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>65</TD><TD>Deon Butler</TD><TD>vs. SD</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>66</TD><TD>T.J. Houshmandzadeh</TD><TD>vs. CLE</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>67</TD><TD>Golden Tate</TD><TD>vs. SD</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>68</TD><TD>Davone Bess</TD><TD>vs. NYJ</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>69</TD><TD>Brandon Tate</TD><TD>vs. BUF</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>70</TD><TD>Stephen Williams</TD><TD>vs. OAK</TD><TD>- </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

[SIZE=+1]Week 3 Tight Ends[/SIZE]

<TABLE width="100%"><TBODY><TR class=TableTopRed><TD>Rank</TD><TD>Player Name</TD><TD>Opponent</TD><TD>Notes</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>1</TD><TD>Antonio Gates</TD><TD>at SEA</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>2</TD><TD>Dallas Clark</TD><TD>at DEN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>3</TD><TD>Jermichael Finley</TD><TD>at CHI</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>4</TD><TD>Visanthe Shiancoe</TD><TD>vs. DET</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>5</TD><TD>Vernon Davis</TD><TD>at KC</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>6</TD><TD>Chris Cooley</TD><TD>at STL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>7</TD><TD>Jason Witten</TD><TD>at HOU</TD><TD>Probable(concussion)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>8</TD><TD>Brent Celek</TD><TD>at JAC</TD><TD>Probable(chest)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>9</TD><TD>Tony Gonzalez</TD><TD>at NO</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>10</TD><TD>Kellen Winslow</TD><TD>vs. PIT</TD><TD>Probable(knee)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>11</TD><TD>Zach Miller</TD><TD>at ARZ</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>12</TD><TD>Dustin Keller</TD><TD>at MIA</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>13</TD><TD>Heath Miller</TD><TD>at TB</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>14</TD><TD>Aaron Hernandez</TD><TD>vs. BUF</TD><TD>Probable(knee)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>15</TD><TD>John Carlson</TD><TD>vs. SD</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>16</TD><TD>Todd Heap</TD><TD>vs. CLE</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>17</TD><TD>Marcedes Lewis</TD><TD>vs. PHI</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>18</TD><TD>Jermaine Gresham</TD><TD>at CAR</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>19</TD><TD>Tony Scheffler</TD><TD>at MIN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>20</TD><TD>Greg Olsen</TD><TD>vs. GB</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>21</TD><TD>Tony Moeaki</TD><TD>vs. SF</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>22</TD><TD>Owen Daniels</TD><TD>vs. DAL</TD><TD>Probable(knee)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>23</TD><TD>Jeremy Shockey</TD><TD>vs. ATL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>24</TD><TD>Ben Watson</TD><TD>at BAL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>25</TD><TD>Bo Scaife</TD><TD>at NYG</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>26</TD><TD>Brandon Pettigrew</TD><TD>at MIN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>27</TD><TD>Anthony Fasano</TD><TD>vs. NYJ</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>28</TD><TD>Dante Rosario</TD><TD>vs. CIN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>29</TD><TD>Rob Gronkowski</TD><TD>vs. BUF</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>30</TD><TD>Martellus Bennett</TD><TD>at HOU</TD><TD>- </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

[SIZE=+1]Week 3 Team Defense[/SIZE]

<TABLE width="100%"><TBODY><TR class=TableTopRed><TD>Rank</TD><TD>Player Name</TD><TD>Opponent</TD><TD>Notes</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>1</TD><TD>Steelers Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at TB</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>2</TD><TD>Ravens Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. CLE</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>3</TD><TD>Vikings Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. DET</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>4</TD><TD>Packers Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at CHI</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>5</TD><TD>Patriots Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. BUF</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>6</TD><TD>Bengals Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at CAR</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>7</TD><TD>Jets Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at MIA</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>8</TD><TD>Dolphins Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. NYJ</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>9</TD><TD>Eagles Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at JAC</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>10</TD><TD>Fortyniners Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at KC</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>11</TD><TD>Buccaneers Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. PIT</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>12</TD><TD>Titans Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at NYG</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>13</TD><TD>Giants Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. TEN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>14</TD><TD>Saints Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. ATL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>15</TD><TD>Raiders Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at ARZ</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>16</TD><TD>Cowboys Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at HOU</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>17</TD><TD>Chiefs Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. SF</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>18</TD><TD>Chargers Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at SEA</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>19</TD><TD>Redskins Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at STL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>20</TD><TD>Lions Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at MIN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>21</TD><TD>Cardinals Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. OAK</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>22</TD><TD>Panthers Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. CIN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>23</TD><TD>Texans Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. DAL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>24</TD><TD>Bears Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. GB</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>25</TD><TD>Rams Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. WAS</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>26</TD><TD>Colts Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at DEN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>27</TD><TD>Seahawks Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. SD</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>28</TD><TD>Jaguars Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. PHI</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>29</TD><TD>Falcons Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at NO</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>30</TD><TD>Broncos Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. IND</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>31</TD><TD>Browns Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at BAL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>32</TD><TD>Bills Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at NE</TD><TD>- </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

[SIZE=+1]Week 3 Kickers[/SIZE]

<TABLE width="100%"><TBODY><TR class=TableTopRed><TD>Rank</TD><TD>Player Name</TD><TD>Opponent</TD><TD>Notes</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>1</TD><TD>David Akers</TD><TD>at JAC</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>2</TD><TD>Nate Kaeding</TD><TD>at SEA</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>3</TD><TD>Stephen Gostkowski</TD><TD>vs. BUF</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>4</TD><TD>Garrett Hartley</TD><TD>vs. ATL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>5</TD><TD>Rob Bironas</TD><TD>at NYG</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>6</TD><TD>Neil Rackers</TD><TD>vs. DAL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>7</TD><TD>Ryan Longwell</TD><TD>vs. DET</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>8</TD><TD>Robbie Gould</TD><TD>vs. GB</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>9</TD><TD>Mason Crosby</TD><TD>at CHI</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>10</TD><TD>Matt Prater</TD><TD>vs. IND</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>11</TD><TD>Jeff Reed</TD><TD>at TB</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>12</TD><TD>Mike Nugent</TD><TD>at CAR</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>13</TD><TD>John Kasay</TD><TD>vs. CIN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>14</TD><TD>Sebastian Janikowski</TD><TD>at ARZ</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>15</TD><TD>Adam Vinatieri</TD><TD>at DEN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>16</TD><TD>Dan Carpenter</TD><TD>vs. NYJ</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>17</TD><TD>Lawrence Tynes</TD><TD>vs. TEN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>18</TD><TD>Jason Hanson</TD><TD>at MIN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>19</TD><TD>Olindo Mare</TD><TD>vs. SD</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>20</TD><TD>Matt Bryant</TD><TD>at NO</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>21</TD><TD>Josh Brown</TD><TD>vs. WAS</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>22</TD><TD>Ryan Succop</TD><TD>vs. SF</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>23</TD><TD>Graham Gano</TD><TD>at STL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>24</TD><TD>Billy Cundiff</TD><TD>vs. CLE</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>25</TD><TD>Joe Nedney</TD><TD>at KC</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>26</TD><TD>Jay Feely</TD><TD>vs. OAK</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>27</TD><TD>David Buehler</TD><TD>at HOU</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>28</TD><TD>Nick Folk</TD><TD>at MIA</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>29</TD><TD>Connor Barth</TD><TD>vs. PIT</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>30</TD><TD>Josh Scobee</TD><TD>vs. PHI</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>31</TD><TD>Phil Dawson</TD><TD>at BAL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>32</TD><TD>Rian Lindell</TD><TD>at NE</TD><TD>- </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

HacheMan · Sep 23, 2010

Week 3 Rankings
It took two weeks to change the perception of Jay Cutler and the Chicago Bears offense. Cutler started the offseason full of hype, yet went into the year undervalued. I didn't feel especially high on Cutler – Silva and Wesseling both ranked him higher when we came up with our magazine evaluations. But I wound up owning Cutler in two of my three leagues because Fantasy Nation decided Sweet Baby Jay was toxic after a discouraging preseason.

(Note: I've never been in fewer than 8-9 leagues because of work until now. Three is awesome. Highly recommended.)

In two weeks, Devin Aromashodu went from everyone's favorite sleeper to fantasy waiver wires. Earl Bennett has taken his role. Aromoshadu will probably have a few big weeks, but I don't think he's worth waiting for in most formats. (For what it's worth, Rotoworld listed Aromashodu on our busts list.) The big question in Chicago was whether Cutler had enough weapons. The mistake was looking only at wide receiver.

Greg Olsen has proven to be a far bigger factor in Mike Martz's scheme than anyone imagined. I'm not convinced Olsen can be consistent in fantasy leagues, but the team essentially uses Olsen as a wideout, not a tight end. Chester Taylor completed the offense. He's not playing a ton of snaps, but his presence guarantees that an elite pass-catching back is in the game at all times.

Most importantly, Cutler is slinging the ball again. He's making throws other quarterbacks simply can't make. He's always been aggressive, which suits Martz's offense perfectly.

This week against Green Bay provides another test for Cutler, but he's shown me enough. I'm willing to live with a few ups, downs, and interception. He's not coming out of my lineup.

[SIZE=+1]Week 3 Quarterbacks[/SIZE]

<TABLE width="100%"><TBODY><TR class=TableTopRed><TD>Rank</TD><TD>Player Name</TD><TD>Opponent</TD><TD>Notes</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>1</TD><TD>Aaron Rodgers</TD><TD>at CHI</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>2</TD><TD>Peyton Manning</TD><TD>at DEN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>3</TD><TD>Drew Brees</TD><TD>vs. ATL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>4</TD><TD>Tony Romo</TD><TD>at HOU</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>5</TD><TD>Matt Schaub</TD><TD>vs. DAL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>6</TD><TD>Tom Brady</TD><TD>vs. BUF</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>7</TD><TD>Michael Vick</TD><TD>at JAC</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>8</TD><TD>Philip Rivers</TD><TD>at SEA</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>9</TD><TD>Jay Cutler</TD><TD>vs. GB</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>10</TD><TD>Donovan McNabb</TD><TD>at STL</TD><TD>Questionable(ankle)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>11</TD><TD>Brett Favre</TD><TD>vs. DET</TD><TD>Probable(ankle)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>12</TD><TD>Kyle Orton</TD><TD>vs. IND</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>13</TD><TD>Eli Manning</TD><TD>vs. TEN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>14</TD><TD>Matt Ryan</TD><TD>at NO</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>15</TD><TD>Joe Flacco</TD><TD>vs. CLE</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>16</TD><TD>Carson Palmer</TD><TD>at CAR</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>17</TD><TD>Vince Young</TD><TD>at NYG</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>18</TD><TD>David Garrard</TD><TD>vs. PHI</TD><TD>Probable(back)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>19</TD><TD>Matt Hasselbeck</TD><TD>vs. SD</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>20</TD><TD>Sam Bradford</TD><TD>vs. WAS</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>21</TD><TD>Alex Smith</TD><TD>at KC</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>22</TD><TD>Shaun Hill</TD><TD>at MIN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>23</TD><TD>Matt Cassel</TD><TD>vs. SF</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>24</TD><TD>Chad Henne</TD><TD>vs. NYJ</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>25</TD><TD>Mark Sanchez</TD><TD>at MIA</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>26</TD><TD>Derek Anderson</TD><TD>vs. OAK</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>27</TD><TD>Bruce Gradkowski</TD><TD>at ARZ</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>28</TD><TD>Josh Freeman</TD><TD>vs. PIT</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>29</TD><TD>Jimmy Clausen</TD><TD>vs. CIN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>30</TD><TD>Ryan Fitzpatrick</TD><TD>at NE</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>31</TD><TD>Seneca Wallace</TD><TD>at BAL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>32</TD><TD>Charlie Batch</TD><TD>at TB</TD><TD>- </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

All sorts of extra goodies over at Season Pass.

[SIZE=+1]Week 3 Running backs[/SIZE]

<TABLE width="100%"><TBODY><TR class=TableTopRed><TD>Rank</TD><TD>Player Name</TD><TD>Opponent</TD><TD>Notes</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>1</TD><TD>Chris Johnson</TD><TD>at NYG</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>2</TD><TD>Adrian Peterson</TD><TD>vs. DET</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>3</TD><TD>Ray Rice</TD><TD>vs. CLE</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>4</TD><TD>Maurice Jones-Drew</TD><TD>vs. PHI</TD><TD>Probable(ankle)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>5</TD><TD>Frank Gore</TD><TD>at KC</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>6</TD><TD>Arian Foster</TD><TD>vs. DAL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>7</TD><TD>LeSean McCoy</TD><TD>at JAC</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>8</TD><TD>Rashard Mendenhall</TD><TD>at TB</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>9</TD><TD>Jahvid Best</TD><TD>at MIN</TD><TD>Probable(toe)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>10</TD><TD>Pierre Thomas</TD><TD>vs. ATL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>11</TD><TD>Steven Jackson</TD><TD>vs. WAS</TD><TD>Probable(knee)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>12</TD><TD>Michael Turner</TD><TD>at NO</TD><TD>Sidelined(groin)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>13</TD><TD>Darren McFadden</TD><TD>at ARZ</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>14</TD><TD>Knowshon Moreno</TD><TD>vs. IND</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>15</TD><TD>DeAngelo Williams</TD><TD>vs. CIN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>16</TD><TD>Cedric Benson</TD><TD>at CAR</TD><TD>Probable(shoulder)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>17</TD><TD>Jamaal Charles</TD><TD>vs. SF</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>18</TD><TD>Matt Forte</TD><TD>vs. GB</TD><TD>Probable(knee)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>19</TD><TD>Joseph Addai</TD><TD>at DEN</TD><TD>Questionable(knee)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>20</TD><TD>Ahmad Bradshaw</TD><TD>vs. TEN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>21</TD><TD>Tim Hightower</TD><TD>vs. OAK</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>22</TD><TD>Ronnie Brown</TD><TD>vs. NYJ</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>23</TD><TD>Jonathan Stewart</TD><TD>vs. CIN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>24</TD><TD>Clinton Portis</TD><TD>at STL</TD><TD>Questionable(wrist)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>25</TD><TD>Mike Tolbert</TD><TD>at SEA</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>26</TD><TD>LaDainian Tomlinson</TD><TD>at MIA</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>27</TD><TD>Shonn Greene</TD><TD>at MIA</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>28</TD><TD>Felix Jones</TD><TD>at HOU</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>29</TD><TD>Marion Barber</TD><TD>at HOU</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>30</TD><TD>Beanie Wells</TD><TD>vs. OAK</TD><TD>Questionable(knee)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>31</TD><TD>Thomas Jones</TD><TD>vs. SF</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>32</TD><TD>Brandon Jackson</TD><TD>at CHI</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>33</TD><TD>Fred Jackson</TD><TD>at NE</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>34</TD><TD>Cadillac Williams</TD><TD>vs. PIT</TD><TD>Probable(hamstring)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>35</TD><TD>Darren Sproles</TD><TD>at SEA</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>36</TD><TD>Jerome Harrison</TD><TD>at BAL</TD><TD>Questionable(thigh)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>37</TD><TD>Ricky Williams</TD><TD>vs. NYJ</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>38</TD><TD>Justin Forsett</TD><TD>vs. SD</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>39</TD><TD>Peyton Hillis</TD><TD>at BAL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>40</TD><TD>C.J. Spiller</TD><TD>at NE</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>41</TD><TD>Willis McGahee</TD><TD>vs. CLE</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>42</TD><TD>Donald Brown</TD><TD>at DEN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>43</TD><TD>Brandon Jacobs</TD><TD>vs. TEN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>44</TD><TD>Marshawn Lynch</TD><TD>at NE</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>45</TD><TD>Jason Snelling</TD><TD>at NO</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>46</TD><TD>Fred Taylor</TD><TD>vs. BUF</TD><TD>Probable(toe)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>47</TD><TD>Chester Taylor</TD><TD>vs. GB</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>48</TD><TD>Leon Washington</TD><TD>vs. SD</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>49</TD><TD>Bernard Scott</TD><TD>at CAR</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>50</TD><TD>Steve Slaton</TD><TD>vs. DAL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>51</TD><TD>Tashard Choice</TD><TD>at HOU</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>52</TD><TD>John Kuhn</TD><TD>at CHI</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>53</TD><TD>BenJarvus Green-Ellis</TD><TD>vs. BUF</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>54</TD><TD>Keiland Williams</TD><TD>at STL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>55</TD><TD>Michael Bush</TD><TD>at ARZ</TD><TD>Questionable(thumb)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>56</TD><TD>Correll Buckhalter</TD><TD>vs. IND</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>57</TD><TD>Rashad Jennings</TD><TD>vs. PHI</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>58</TD><TD>Mike Bell</TD><TD>at JAC</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>59</TD><TD>Earnest Graham</TD><TD>vs. PIT</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>60</TD><TD>Toby Gerhart</TD><TD>vs. DET</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>61</TD><TD>Mike Goodson</TD><TD>vs. CIN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>62</TD><TD>Brian Westbrook</TD><TD>at KC</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>63</TD><TD>Isaac Redman</TD><TD>at TB</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>64</TD><TD>Javon Ringer</TD><TD>at NYG</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>65</TD><TD>Kareem Huggins</TD><TD>vs. PIT</TD><TD>Probable(groin)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>66</TD><TD>Laurence Maroney</TD><TD>vs. IND</TD><TD>Sidelined(thigh)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>67</TD><TD>Dimitri Nance</TD><TD>at CHI</TD><TD>- </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

Editor's Note: Looking for a weekly way to win money playing fantasy? Check out Snapdraft – a lot of fun.

[SIZE=+1]Week 3 Wide Receivers[/SIZE]

<TABLE width="100%"><TBODY><TR class=TableTopRed><TD>Rank</TD><TD>Player Name</TD><TD>Opponent</TD><TD>Notes</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>1</TD><TD>Andre Johnson</TD><TD>vs. DAL</TD><TD>Probable(ankle)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>2</TD><TD>Miles Austin</TD><TD>at HOU</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>3</TD><TD>Randy Moss</TD><TD>vs. BUF</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>4</TD><TD>Reggie Wayne</TD><TD>at DEN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>5</TD><TD>Roddy White</TD><TD>at NO</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>6</TD><TD>Larry Fitzgerald</TD><TD>vs. OAK</TD><TD>Probable(knee)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>7</TD><TD>DeSean Jackson</TD><TD>at JAC</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>8</TD><TD>Brandon Marshall</TD><TD>vs. NYJ</TD><TD>Probable(ankle)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>9</TD><TD>Marques Colston</TD><TD>vs. ATL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>10</TD><TD>Steve Smith</TD><TD>vs. CIN</TD><TD>Probable(thigh)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>11</TD><TD>Anquan Boldin</TD><TD>vs. CLE</TD><TD>Probable(thigh)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>12</TD><TD>Calvin Johnson</TD><TD>at MIN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>13</TD><TD>Chad Ochocinco</TD><TD>at CAR</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>14</TD><TD>Wes Welker</TD><TD>vs. BUF</TD><TD>Probable(-)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>15</TD><TD>Greg Jennings</TD><TD>at CHI</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>16</TD><TD>Hakeem Nicks</TD><TD>vs. TEN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>17</TD><TD>Steve Smith</TD><TD>vs. TEN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>18</TD><TD>Santana Moss</TD><TD>at STL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>19</TD><TD>Michael Crabtree</TD><TD>at KC</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>20</TD><TD>Mike Sims-Walker</TD><TD>vs. PHI</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>21</TD><TD>Hines Ward</TD><TD>at TB</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>22</TD><TD>Johnny Knox</TD><TD>vs. GB</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>23</TD><TD>Donald Driver</TD><TD>at CHI</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>24</TD><TD>Jeremy Maclin</TD><TD>at JAC</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>25</TD><TD>Mike Williams</TD><TD>vs. PIT</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>26</TD><TD>Dez Bryant</TD><TD>at HOU</TD><TD>Questionable(ribs)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>27</TD><TD>Austin Collie</TD><TD>at DEN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>28</TD><TD>Mark Clayton</TD><TD>vs. WAS</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>29</TD><TD>Mike Wallace</TD><TD>at TB</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>30</TD><TD>Dwayne Bowe</TD><TD>vs. SF</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>31</TD><TD>Steve Breaston</TD><TD>vs. OAK</TD><TD>Questionable(knee)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>32</TD><TD>Pierre Garcon</TD><TD>at DEN</TD><TD>Questionable(hamstring)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>33</TD><TD>Eddie Royal</TD><TD>vs. IND</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>34</TD><TD>Demaryius Thomas</TD><TD>vs. IND</TD><TD>Probable(foot)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>35</TD><TD>Percy Harvin</TD><TD>vs. DET</TD><TD>Probable(head)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>36</TD><TD>Terrell Owens</TD><TD>at CAR</TD><TD>Probable(back)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>37</TD><TD>Malcom Floyd</TD><TD>at SEA</TD><TD>Probable(hamstring)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>38</TD><TD>Jacoby Jones</TD><TD>vs. DAL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>39</TD><TD>Jerricho Cotchery</TD><TD>at MIA</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>40</TD><TD>Louis Murphy</TD><TD>at ARZ</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>41</TD><TD>Devin Hester</TD><TD>vs. GB</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>42</TD><TD>Kevin Walter</TD><TD>vs. DAL</TD><TD>Probable(-)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>43</TD><TD>Lee Evans</TD><TD>at NE</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>44</TD><TD>Derrick Mason</TD><TD>vs. CLE</TD><TD>Questionable(knee)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>45</TD><TD>Mike Williams</TD><TD>vs. SD</TD><TD>Probable(thigh)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>46</TD><TD>Legedu Naanee</TD><TD>at SEA</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>47</TD><TD>Robert Meachem</TD><TD>vs. ATL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>48</TD><TD>Mario Manningham</TD><TD>vs. TEN</TD><TD>Probable(flu)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>49</TD><TD>Mohamed Massaquoi</TD><TD>at BAL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>50</TD><TD>Nate Washington</TD><TD>at NYG</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>51</TD><TD>Braylon Edwards</TD><TD>at MIA</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>52</TD><TD>Bernard Berrian</TD><TD>vs. DET</TD><TD>Questionable(knee)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>53</TD><TD>Devery Henderson</TD><TD>vs. ATL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>54</TD><TD>Jabar Gaffney</TD><TD>vs. IND</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>55</TD><TD>Mike Thomas</TD><TD>vs. PHI</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>56</TD><TD>Roy Williams</TD><TD>at HOU</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>57</TD><TD>James Jones</TD><TD>at CHI</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>58</TD><TD>Jordan Shipley</TD><TD>at CAR</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>59</TD><TD>Chris Chambers</TD><TD>vs. SF</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>60</TD><TD>Josh Morgan</TD><TD>at KC</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>61</TD><TD>Devin Aromashodu</TD><TD>vs. GB</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>62</TD><TD>Greg Camarillo</TD><TD>vs. DET</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>63</TD><TD>Justin Gage</TD><TD>at NYG</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>64</TD><TD>Kenny Britt</TD><TD>at NYG</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>65</TD><TD>Deon Butler</TD><TD>vs. SD</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>66</TD><TD>T.J. Houshmandzadeh</TD><TD>vs. CLE</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>67</TD><TD>Golden Tate</TD><TD>vs. SD</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>68</TD><TD>Davone Bess</TD><TD>vs. NYJ</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>69</TD><TD>Brandon Tate</TD><TD>vs. BUF</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>70</TD><TD>Stephen Williams</TD><TD>vs. OAK</TD><TD>- </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

[SIZE=+1]Week 3 Tight Ends[/SIZE]

<TABLE width="100%"><TBODY><TR class=TableTopRed><TD>Rank</TD><TD>Player Name</TD><TD>Opponent</TD><TD>Notes</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>1</TD><TD>Antonio Gates</TD><TD>at SEA</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>2</TD><TD>Dallas Clark</TD><TD>at DEN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>3</TD><TD>Jermichael Finley</TD><TD>at CHI</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>4</TD><TD>Visanthe Shiancoe</TD><TD>vs. DET</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>5</TD><TD>Vernon Davis</TD><TD>at KC</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>6</TD><TD>Chris Cooley</TD><TD>at STL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>7</TD><TD>Jason Witten</TD><TD>at HOU</TD><TD>Probable(concussion)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>8</TD><TD>Brent Celek</TD><TD>at JAC</TD><TD>Probable(chest)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>9</TD><TD>Tony Gonzalez</TD><TD>at NO</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>10</TD><TD>Kellen Winslow</TD><TD>vs. PIT</TD><TD>Probable(knee)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>11</TD><TD>Zach Miller</TD><TD>at ARZ</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>12</TD><TD>Dustin Keller</TD><TD>at MIA</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>13</TD><TD>Heath Miller</TD><TD>at TB</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>14</TD><TD>Aaron Hernandez</TD><TD>vs. BUF</TD><TD>Probable(knee)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>15</TD><TD>John Carlson</TD><TD>vs. SD</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>16</TD><TD>Todd Heap</TD><TD>vs. CLE</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>17</TD><TD>Marcedes Lewis</TD><TD>vs. PHI</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>18</TD><TD>Jermaine Gresham</TD><TD>at CAR</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>19</TD><TD>Tony Scheffler</TD><TD>at MIN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>20</TD><TD>Greg Olsen</TD><TD>vs. GB</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>21</TD><TD>Tony Moeaki</TD><TD>vs. SF</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>22</TD><TD>Owen Daniels</TD><TD>vs. DAL</TD><TD>Probable(knee)</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>23</TD><TD>Jeremy Shockey</TD><TD>vs. ATL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>24</TD><TD>Ben Watson</TD><TD>at BAL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>25</TD><TD>Bo Scaife</TD><TD>at NYG</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>26</TD><TD>Brandon Pettigrew</TD><TD>at MIN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>27</TD><TD>Anthony Fasano</TD><TD>vs. NYJ</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>28</TD><TD>Dante Rosario</TD><TD>vs. CIN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>29</TD><TD>Rob Gronkowski</TD><TD>vs. BUF</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>30</TD><TD>Martellus Bennett</TD><TD>at HOU</TD><TD>- </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

[SIZE=+1]Week 3 Team Defense[/SIZE]

<TABLE width="100%"><TBODY><TR class=TableTopRed><TD>Rank</TD><TD>Player Name</TD><TD>Opponent</TD><TD>Notes</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>1</TD><TD>Steelers Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at TB</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>2</TD><TD>Ravens Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. CLE</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>3</TD><TD>Vikings Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. DET</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>4</TD><TD>Packers Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at CHI</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>5</TD><TD>Patriots Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. BUF</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>6</TD><TD>Bengals Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at CAR</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>7</TD><TD>Jets Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at MIA</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>8</TD><TD>Dolphins Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. NYJ</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>9</TD><TD>Eagles Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at JAC</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>10</TD><TD>Fortyniners Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at KC</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>11</TD><TD>Buccaneers Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. PIT</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>12</TD><TD>Titans Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at NYG</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>13</TD><TD>Giants Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. TEN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>14</TD><TD>Saints Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. ATL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>15</TD><TD>Raiders Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at ARZ</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>16</TD><TD>Cowboys Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at HOU</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>17</TD><TD>Chiefs Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. SF</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>18</TD><TD>Chargers Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at SEA</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>19</TD><TD>Redskins Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at STL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>20</TD><TD>Lions Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at MIN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>21</TD><TD>Cardinals Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. OAK</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>22</TD><TD>Panthers Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. CIN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>23</TD><TD>Texans Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. DAL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>24</TD><TD>Bears Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. GB</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>25</TD><TD>Rams Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. WAS</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>26</TD><TD>Colts Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at DEN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>27</TD><TD>Seahawks Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. SD</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>28</TD><TD>Jaguars Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. PHI</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>29</TD><TD>Falcons Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at NO</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>30</TD><TD>Broncos Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. IND</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>31</TD><TD>Browns Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at BAL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>32</TD><TD>Bills Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at NE</TD><TD>- </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

[SIZE=+1]Week 3 Kickers[/SIZE]

<TABLE width="100%"><TBODY><TR class=TableTopRed><TD>Rank</TD><TD>Player Name</TD><TD>Opponent</TD><TD>Notes</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>1</TD><TD>David Akers</TD><TD>at JAC</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>2</TD><TD>Nate Kaeding</TD><TD>at SEA</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>3</TD><TD>Stephen Gostkowski</TD><TD>vs. BUF</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>4</TD><TD>Garrett Hartley</TD><TD>vs. ATL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>5</TD><TD>Rob Bironas</TD><TD>at NYG</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>6</TD><TD>Neil Rackers</TD><TD>vs. DAL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>7</TD><TD>Ryan Longwell</TD><TD>vs. DET</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>8</TD><TD>Robbie Gould</TD><TD>vs. GB</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>9</TD><TD>Mason Crosby</TD><TD>at CHI</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>10</TD><TD>Matt Prater</TD><TD>vs. IND</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>11</TD><TD>Jeff Reed</TD><TD>at TB</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>12</TD><TD>Mike Nugent</TD><TD>at CAR</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>13</TD><TD>John Kasay</TD><TD>vs. CIN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>14</TD><TD>Sebastian Janikowski</TD><TD>at ARZ</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>15</TD><TD>Adam Vinatieri</TD><TD>at DEN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>16</TD><TD>Dan Carpenter</TD><TD>vs. NYJ</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>17</TD><TD>Lawrence Tynes</TD><TD>vs. TEN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>18</TD><TD>Jason Hanson</TD><TD>at MIN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>19</TD><TD>Olindo Mare</TD><TD>vs. SD</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>20</TD><TD>Matt Bryant</TD><TD>at NO</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>21</TD><TD>Josh Brown</TD><TD>vs. WAS</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>22</TD><TD>Ryan Succop</TD><TD>vs. SF</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>23</TD><TD>Graham Gano</TD><TD>at STL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>24</TD><TD>Billy Cundiff</TD><TD>vs. CLE</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>25</TD><TD>Joe Nedney</TD><TD>at KC</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>26</TD><TD>Jay Feely</TD><TD>vs. OAK</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>27</TD><TD>David Buehler</TD><TD>at HOU</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>28</TD><TD>Nick Folk</TD><TD>at MIA</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>29</TD><TD>Connor Barth</TD><TD>vs. PIT</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>30</TD><TD>Josh Scobee</TD><TD>vs. PHI</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>31</TD><TD>Phil Dawson</TD><TD>at BAL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>32</TD><TD>Rian Lindell</TD><TD>at NE</TD><TD>- </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

HacheMan · Sep 23, 2010

Kolb on the block?

According to ESPN's Sal Paolantonio, a reliable scoop on Eagles news for years, the team fielded "numerous calls" from "several teams" inquiring about a potential deal for Kevin Kolb following coach Andy Reid's press conference Tuesday night. Radio station 610-WIP in Philly reported that the Browns were one of those teams, which seems reasonable considering Cleveland GM Tom Heckert actually drafted Kolb when he held the same position with the Eagles.

The Cleveland Plain Dealer and the Philadelphia Inquirer went on to emphatically deny the report. Whether or not the phone call was placed Tuesday night, there's no question the Browns would be interested if the Eagles are, in fact, making Kolb available. Heckert and Browns president Mike Holmgren, a close friend of Reid, engaged in Kolb trade talks with the Eagles last March.

Just how highly does Heckert regard Kolb's talent? Three years ago, when he was considering an invitation to join the Falcons' front office, Heckert would have given Reid "whatever he wanted" for the opportunity to bring Kolb along with him to Atlanta. "A one (draft pick), a two ... two ones," said Heckert. "No joke. Kolb is legit."

Reid's initial comments on the subject Wednesday didn't exactly throw water on the fire. Asked if he could guarantee that Kolb would remain with the Eagles beyond the Oct. 19 trade deadline, Reid responded, "I can't predict anything down that far, nobody in this league can do that, that's ridiculous. The future, we'll just have to see." Queried again later in the day, Reid was singing a different tune: "No, I want Kevin Kolb on this football team."

Frankly, I don't believe a word Reid says anymore, not even "hello." He insisted early this past offseason that Donovan McNabb would be his 2010 starting quarterback. Just four days ago, he adamantly maintained that Kolb was sending Michael Vick back to the bench.

If Reid truly believes that Vick is "playing out of his mind" as "one of the best quarterbacks in the league right now," then a Kolb trade certainly makes sense closer to the deadline. The Eagles may want to hold onto their highly paid backup for the next few weeks as insurance for a smooth Vick transition, but you can bet their ears will be wide open to trade offers. This regime is one of the most aggressive in the league. Expect to hear a host of Kolb-to-Cleveland rumors leading up to the deadline.

Chargers GM A.J. Smith proved once again that he's a land-bound Ahab, monomaniacally pursuing victory in standoff after standoff while finding the Lombardi Trophy elusive. A man whose principals are written in stone, Smith has emerged victorious in stare-downs with Antonio Gates, Marty Schottenheimer, LaDainian Tomlinson, and just about every trade partner he's ever engaged. To no one's surprise, he's done it again with Vincent Jackson while Marcus McNeill awaits in the on-deck circle.

Jackson's camp had multiple deals in place with interested teams leading up to Wednesday's 4:00 p.m. "deadline." As expected, Smith was more than willing to cut off his nose to spite his face, shooting down an offer from the Vikings that would have netted him at least a 2011 second-rounder with a conditional 2012 pick. While Jackson expressed disillusionment with the process, his agent had the line of the day: "Archie Manning had it right. They call (Smith) 'The Lord of No Rings' for a reason."

Jackson is now ineligible to play until after the October 17 game, just two days before the trade deadline. Talks could be revisited with the Vikings or another team, but a trade is now the longest of longshots. Jackson is expected to sit out the entire season rather than returning to the Chargers for under $400,000 the rest of the way. Outside of Dynasty and keeper leagues, owners should no longer feel beholden to carry V-Jax on fantasy rosters.

**Note: Those quick to jump to Smith's defense shouldn't consider it a lock that the Chargers will receive a third-round pick when Jackson signs elsewhere as a free agent. According to Yahoo's Michael Silver, Jackson's agent plans to spite Smith by ensuring that his client's next contract has an "inordinately low 2011 base salary," thereby lowering the Bolts' compensation to a sixth- or seventh-round draft pick.

Don't count on Ryan Mathews playing this week at Seattle. Although the rookie is holding out hope of suiting up, he also revealed that his sprain is of the dreaded high-ankle variety. Mathews missed practice in its entirety on Wednesday, a poor sign for his chances of beating the odds. Backup Mike Tobert, who was already in the mix for goal-line work regardless, is increasingly looking like the starter for Week 3. Darren Sproles would also be in line for more touches, qualifying as a flex option in PPR leagues. If Mathews owners haven't already done so, they need to rush to the waiver wire to put in a claim for Tolbert.

Percy Harvin (hip) was held out of Vikings practice Wednesday, with coach Brad Childress citing a recurrence of migraines. "It had nothing to do with his hip (Wednesday)," Childress said of Harvin's inability to practice. "He's just twinkle toes -- he was dancing around (Wednesday) morning when he was in there." Childress didn't sound overly concerned about Harvin's latest migraine episode, but he's going to be risky fantasy play this week even if he suits up against the Lions.

Jets coach Rex Ryan announced Wednesday that Darrelle Revis (hamstring) will not even make the team flight to Miami for Week 3. Pass rusher Calvin Pace (foot) has also been ruled out. Revis' hamstring is considered a month-long injury, and he's expected to miss "at least" two games. With a Week 3 reprieve, Brandon Marshall will be an elite WR1 play against the Jets.

Editor's Note: Check out our Season Pass package, featuring IDP rankings, Top 200 rankings, Evan Silva's running back report, Ryan Boyer's Wide Receiver Report, Chris Wesseling's Dynasty advice, advance workload and target data, exclusive chats, and schedule analysis you can only get with Season Pass.

Two-Minute Drill: The Raiders have chosen to start Bruce Gradkowski over a healthy Jason Campbell in against the Cardinals this week. ... Steelers coach Mike Tomlin announced that Charlie Batch will start over Byron Leftwich (knee) at Tampa in Week 3. ... Seneca Wallace is considered the likely starter for the Browns again this week at Baltimore. ... The Saints released RB DeShawn Wynn, replacing him with veteran Ladell Betts. Rookie Chris Ivory (knee) returned to a limited practice but will not play this week. ... Seahawks coach Pete Carroll indicated that Deon Butler has earned more opportunities going forward. Carroll also named Golden Tate the primary punt returner going forward. ... Browns coach Eric Mangini said he needs to get the ball to Josh Cribbs more while Ravens Coach John Harbaugh said that Ray Rice should expect a heavier workload against Cleveland on Sunday. ... Coach Todd Haley indicated that the Chiefs' carry distribution will be matchup-based moving forward. ... Though Bills coach Chan Gailey plans to get C.J. Spiller more involved as the weeks go on, he declined to name a starting running back. The Bills' starter will be a week-to-week decision. ... Redskins coaches confirmed that rookie Keiland Williams will be the No. 2 running back going forward. ... Roscoe Parrish has replaced Steve Johnson as the Bills' starting flanker in two-receiver sets. ... Ravens released veteran S Ken Hamlin. ... NFL suspended Bucs FS Tanard Jackson indefinitely for violating the league's Substance Abuse Policy.

Red Zone: The Lions have ruled out Matthew Stafford (shoulder) for Week 3, and will again start Shaun Hill. ... Joseph Addai missed practice with a knee injury. ... Beanie Wells (knee) is confident that he will make his season debut this week after practicing on a limited basis Wednesday. ... Michael Turner (groin), Steven Jackson (knee), and Maurice Jones (ankle), limited in Wednesday's practice, are all expected to play this week. ... Michael Bush (thumb) returned to a full practice for the first time since being injured just prior to Week 1. ... Jerome Harrison missed Browns practice Wednesday with a thigh injury; No.3 back James Davis is expecting a bigger workload at Baltimore. ... Cadillac Williams (hamstring) was limited Wednesday while Kareem Huggins (groin) returned to a full practice. ... Andre Johnson (ankle) was limited to a walkthrough in Wednesday's practice, but he's guaranteed that he'll play Sunday against the Cowboys. ... Neither Hakeem Nicks (ankle) nor Chad Ochocinco (ribs) are listed on their team's respective injury reports this week. ... Pierre Garcon (hamstring), Steve Breaston (knee), Terrell Owens (back) and the Panthers' Steve Smith (thigh) were limited in practice Wednesday. ... Nate Burleson (ankle) didn't practice and is doubtful for Week 3. ... Bernard Berrian (knee) was seen walking off the practice field "gingerly" after going through a limited workout Wednesday. ... Mario Manningham (illness), Dez Bryant (hip), and Derrick Mason (knee) were held out of practice. ... Michael Jenkins (shoulder) returned to practice Wednesday, but the Falcons plan to work him back in slowly. ... Kellen Winslow (knee) returned to a full practice on Wednesday. ... Jason Witten (concussion) and Owen Daniels (knee) were both limited in practice Wednesday. ... Kevin Boss (concussion) has resumed practicing in full and is cleared to play in Week 3.

HacheMan · Sep 27, 2010

Sorry, Mr. Jackson
Calling Week 3 "devastating" from an injury standpoint would be excessive, but make no mistake, this Sunday was anything but an ice cream social on the gridiron. Here's the first word on all the key injuries from Week 3:

INJURY: Rams RB Steven Jackson, groin

IMPACT: Coach Steve Spagnuolo is "fairly certain" that Jackson didn't tear his groin, but that's only mildly comforting to fantasy owners – and most likely quite uncomfortable for Jackson, who told the St. Louis Post-Dispatch that "I'm just praying and hoping it's not going to be a serious injury." The team's offensive focal point is headed for a Monday morning MRI, and in the meantime, it's worth noting that reports have surfaced potentially linking the Rams to Larry Johnson. Whether or not that signing happens (and the Sunday night word from ESPN's Chris Mortensen was that it's less likely than initially thought), word that the Rams are searching for an RB isn't an encouraging sign for Jackson in Week 4. Should he miss time, Kenneth Darby (14-49-1) would be the top waiver target, but no one who steps into that backfield is going to replicate Jackson's production.

INJURY: Ravens RB Ray Rice, knee

IMPACT: As of Sunday night, the outlook on this one appeared optimistic. Coach John Harbaugh told the Baltimore Sun that Rice doesn't have ligament damage, and the Ravens RB was quoted as saying, "I'll take some tests on Monday, but everything looks positive right now." We really won't know anything conclusive about Rice's status until those tests, but for now it sounds like he dodged a serious injury. Willis McGahee would benefit if Rice misses time, but the Week 4 matchup against the Steelers may be best avoided regardless of who's starting – Pittsburgh has held the opposition's top running option (Michael Turner, Chris Johnson and Cadillac Williams) to a combined 89 yards on 41 carries this season (2.2 yards per carry).

INJURY: Texans WR Andre Johnson, high ankle sprain

IMPACT: When used in succession, the words "high" and "ankle" and "sprain" will cause most fantasy owners to weep uncontrollably, but apparently Johnson – who did aggravate his injury during his four-catch, 64-yard Week 3 – remains confident that he can play through it. "We're going to do the same thing we did last week as far as treatment and see what happens," Johnson told houstontexans.com. "It's been bothering me since I injured it, but I'm able to play with it." The concern here may not be so much that Johnson will actually miss games due to the injury, but that his production could be hindered while gutting it out.

INJURY: Lions RB Jahvid Best, toe

IMPACT: Best told the Detroit News that his Week 3 injury was unrelated to the toe trouble that landed him on the Week 1 injury report, but whether new or old, the bottom line is that the injury knocked Best out of commission on Sunday. "I played one play after [the injury] and it wasn't the same, so I didn't think I could go," Best said. The Lions are essentially Castle Grayskull (i.e., an impenetrable fortress) when it comes to injury-related information, so don't expect much in the way of clarity regarding Best's Week 4 prognosis. Similarly, don't expect much help from backups Maurice Morris and, if active, Kevin Smith – neither would be a very appealing option against Green Bay unless your team is truly decimated by injuries and/or byes next week.

(Update: Shortly after this column was published Sunday night, Lions beat writer Dave Birkett reported that Best believes he has sprained toe ligaments, a.k.a. turf toe, a.k.a. not good news for his chances of suiting up in Week 4.)

INJURY: Broncos WR Demaryius Thomas, hand/wrist

IMPACT: According to Broncos beat writer Lindsay Jones, Thomas (two catches, 43 yards) was in the trainer's room after a late-game injury to his hand or wrist, leaving the rookie's status for Week 4 unclear as of Sunday night. What's immediately certain is that Thomas' week-to-week production will be affected by the slew of Broncos competing for targets – Kyle Orton completed passes to nine different human beings in Week 3.

INJURY: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe, leg

IMPACT: According to Tom Pelissero of 1500 ESPN Twin Cities, Shiancoe characterized his injury as nothing more than "a little tweak," but did add that "I need the bye right now." Fortunate timing for Shiancoe, who appears to have a solid chance of returning healthy after the Vikings' Week 4 bye.

INJURY: Vikings QB Brett Favre, stinger

IMPACT: Speaking of well-timed byes, Favre now has two weeks to rest the aforementioned stinger and give his surgically-repaired ankle a much-needed early-season vacation. I would expect Favre to come back looking reasonably reinvigorated in two weeks.

INJURY: Bengals RB Cedric Benson, leg

IMPACT: Benson (90 total yards, 2 TD) left late on Sunday with what appeared to be a minor leg injury. Accordingly, fantasy owners should continue to assume it's minor until there's word otherwise. On the off chance that Benson's injury is anything significant, Bernard Scott would be the player to target.

Editor's note: Check out our Season Pass package, featuring IDP rankings, Top 200 rankings, Evan Silva's running back report, Ryan Boyer's Wide Receiver Report, Chris Wesseling's Dynasty advice, advance workload and target data, exclusive chats, and schedule analysis you can only get with Season Pass.

INJURY: Patriots RB Fred Taylor, toe

IMPACT: Toe trouble hindered Taylor in practice leading up to Week 3, then forced him out of Sunday's game after six carries, leaving his status for Week 4 unclear. Should Taylor end up missing time, Benjarvus Green-Ellis (16-98-1 on Sunday) would likely continue seeing increased carries in the Patriots' committee backfield.

INJURY: Seahawks DB Marcus Trufant, ankle

IMPACT: Trufant left Sunday's game in the third quarter and didn't return, ushering in an absolute passing bonanza for Philip Rivers in the second half. If the top Seahawks corner remains unavailable for Week 4, it would be a happy development* for Sam Bradford, Mark Clayton and the rest of the Rams' passing attack.

HacheMan · Sep 27, 2010

Shootout in Denver
Going back to Week 17 of last season, Kyle Orton leads all NFL quarterbacks in yards (1,509) and 25-yard passes (17). Continuing his mastery of coach Josh McDaniels' offense, Orton piled up 476 yards -- second in franchise history -- on 57 attempts in Sunday's shootout loss against the Colts.

Orton became the fourth quarterback already this season to top 400 yards. Just minutes later, Philip Rivers broke Dan Fouts' Chargers franchise record with 455 yards to become the fifth passer to accomplish the feat in three weeks. Peyton Manning, the first to clear the 400-yard mark this year, was "held" to 325 yards and three touchdowns at Denver.

With Pierre Garcon out and Reggie Wayne being shadowed by Champ Bailey, the ingredients were in place for an Austin Collie coming out party as Manning's go-to target. The crafty second-year receiver didn't disappoint, racking up career-highs in receptions (12), yards (171), and touchdowns (2). Collie comes out of Week 3 as the surprising NFL leader in receiving yards.

Broncos receiver and perennial fantasy tease Brandon Lloyd nearly matched Collie, hauling in six receptions for a career-high 169 yards and one touchdown. Not to be outdone, Jabar Gaffney corralled 12 passes for 140 yards while Demaryius Thomas (2 catches, 43 yards) and Eddie Royal (four catches, 23 yards) were essentially afterthoughts.

The early-season lesson on Denver receivers? We should have listened to McDaniels back in May, when he prescribed a receiver-by-committee approach to compensate for Brandon Marshall taking his talents to South Beach.

"I hope we have a lot of guys that become our No. 1 receiver at different times during the year — a tight end that catches 10 balls, two or three different receivers that can catch that many balls in a week over the course of the season," McDaniels said. "We're not looking for it to be predictable or throw it to only one or two players. We'd like to attack the defense with a number of skilled players, and ultimately that's what we'll be when we get everybody out there and have time to practice together."

In other words, good luck guessing along with McDaniels' play-calling, Orton's chemistry, each game's momentum, and defensive matchups. If it's Gaffney and Lloyd this week, it could be Royal and Daniel Graham next week. Stash the receivers and start Orton with confidence.

[SIZE=+1]Stepping off the Ledge[/SIZE]

1. Steelers Offense - As dismal as last week's outlook appeared, there's smooth sailing on the horizon with Bad Ben set to return after the Week 5 bye. Rashard Mendenhall has now cleared 135 yards with a touchdown in 2-of-3 games, Mike Wallace has hauled in deep balls in 2-of-3 games, and Hines Ward has either scored or cleared the century mark in 2-of-3 games. All three players should reach must-start status by mid-October, with Heath Miller possibly joining them.

2. Tony Gonzalez, Falcons - Concerns about his "lost step" were apparently overblown. After reaching milk-carton status by the end of last week's game, Gonzalez turned nine targets against the Saints into eight receptions for 110 yards and a touchdown. The "Shortcuts" version of Sunday's game shows a tight end as athletic and physical as he's ever been. Kudos to those that showed patience or bought low.

3. Michael Turner, Falcons - The groin injury that kept him on the sidelines last week didn't linger or re-aggravate. Jason Snelling only came on to give Turner a breather as opposed to eating into his workload. The result was a game out of Turner's magical 2008 season, grinding out 114 yards and a touchdown on 30 carries. "Burner" has regained RB1 status as he heads into next week's game against a reeling 49ers club.

4. Beanie Wells, Cardinals - My in-box was bombarded throughout last week with queries wondering if owners should cut bait on Beanie after he sat out the first two games with a knee injury. Not just in lopsided trades, mind you, but also suggestions of flat-out dropping a player drafted as a RB2. Wells (14 touches, 75 yards) answered the doubts by outplaying Tim Hightower (12 touches, 40 yards) in his 2010 debut, as expected. After Beanie showed an outstanding burst, even hurdling Raiders defenders, coach Ken Whisenhunt confirmed that his role will continue to grow.

5. Randy Moss, Patriots - Although he's yet to clear 60 yards in a game, Moss made his three targets count by hauling in two scores. The 13-year veteran joined Hall of Famer Jerry Rice (197) as the only players ever with 150 touchdown catches. Moss also sailed past Marvin Harrison into fifth-place on the all-time receiving yards list with 14,604. The 100-yard games will come.

[SIZE=+1]Yeah, This Might Work[/SIZE]

1. Michael Vick, Eagles - The Twitter boards were lit up Sunday with suggestions that Vick is playing better now, with more accuracy and balance, than he ever has. The numbers bear it out, too. Sunday's 28-3 win at Jacksonville saw Vick's first career game with three-plus passing touchdowns and a rushing touchdown (highlights here). His 291 passing yards are tied for fourth-most in his career. Not only is he attacking aggressively down the field, he's also directed seven touchdowns in eight red-zone trips this year. If you grabbed him on the waiver wire two weeks ago, enjoy the ride.

2. Peyton Hillis, Browns - "Just one word: beast," said Ravens FB LeRon McClain. "He's downhill, north south. That's the game of football, big back running hard." Added OLB Terrell Suggs, "I'm not easily impressed, but he impressed me." Hillis ran like the unholy spawn of John Riggins and Mike Alstott, battering a usually impregnable (thank you, Mike Tyson) Ravens defense for 180 yards and a touchdown on 29 touches. This backfield belongs to Hillis even when Jerome Harrison returns from his quad injury.

3. Darren McFadden, Raiders - Skeptics are dropping like passes thrown in Darrius Heyward-Bey's direction. The NFL's third-leading rusher is averaging 115 rushing yards and 142 combined yards per game, and he's getting better by the week. McFadden is flirting with RB1 status as we head into the quarter-season mark.

4. Santana Moss, Redskins - With no other reliable receiver on the roster, Donovan McNabb has targeted Moss at least eight times in each of the first three games. Heading toward his most consistent season, Moss is averaging 10 targets, 7.3 receptions, and 96.7 yards per game to open the season. If you drafted him, hold on tightly as he's now one of the most reliable WR2s going.

5. Brandon Marshall, Dolphins - Speaking of target hounds, Marshall has erased all concerns of going from a pass-first offense to a run-oriented attack in Miami. Bolstered by a dominant 10/166/1 Sunday night performance against a Darrelle Revis-less Jets secondary, Marshall is now averaging numbers identical to Santana Moss' 7.3 receptions and 96.7 yards per game. His 12.7 targets per game bode well for continued WR1 production.

[SIZE=+1]Life Is Unfair[/SIZE]

1. Dez Bryant / Tony Romo, Cowboys - Bryant's spectacular leaping 44-yard grab at the pylon was ruled incomplete when his shoulder fell in the end zone and his lower body landed out of bounds. The explosive rookie also had a 37-yard touchdown nullified when he was bumped out of bounds just before catching the pass. Romo was unable to capitalize with a score on either drive, keeping his numbers at 284 yards and two touchdowns as opposed to 355 yards and four touchdowns. Bryant's numbers fell from five receptions for 121 yards and two touchdowns to four receptions for 50 yards and no scores.

2. Adrian Peterson, Vikings - Peterson was positively beastly as it was, racking up 190 yards and two touchdowns on 28 touches. If not for a Bernard Berrian holding penalty and his own dropped swing pass, Peterson would have added perhaps another 60 or 70 yards for a truly massive fantasy day.

3. Owen Daniels, Texans - Daniels and Miles Austin were each stopped inside the one-yard line in Sunday's battle of Texas. Daniels' misery was compounded when Cowboys' ILB Keith Brooking mugged him in the end zone a few plays later for what went as a pass interference call instead of a touchdown.



[SIZE=+1]Committee Time[/SIZE]

1. Redskins - Peculiar post-game comments from Mike Shanahan, up to his old shenanigans, relegating Clinton Portis to third-down duties after a successful first half: "That was our plan," Shanahan said. "We're going to keep Clinton in there on passing situations on third down and Ryan [Torain] on first- and second-down situations. They both got some carries. I thought they both did a good job."

Before Sunday's performance (7 rushes, 46 yards), Torain had appeared in just two games in his career -- both in 2008. He wasn't even told that he would be activated for the game until Friday. Just when you thought Keiland Williams was poised to make a run at Portis' starting job, Shanny pulls another fast one, throwing his Torain wrench into the works instead.

2. Chiefs - For all of the hand-wringing over the distribution of carries, this backfield boasts two of the top-10 rushers in the NFL after three weeks. Though he's received just 11.3 carries per game, Jamaal Charles is seventh in the league with 238 rushing yards at an astounding 7.0 yards per tote. Thomas Jones, carrying the ball six more times per game, falls 17 yards shy of Charles' total.

3. Jets - LaDainian Tomlinson (18 touches, 88 yards, 1 TD) started Sunday night at Miami and out-gained Shonn Greene (10 touches, 36 yards) for a third straight game. Tomlinson is averaging 5.6 yards per carry compared to just 3.5 for Greene, so we can expect more of the same going forward.

4. Cowboys - Marion Barber touched the ball 17 times in a ball-control attack designed to keep the Texans' offense off the field. The plan went off without a hitch, but Barber has yet to show any playmaking ability whatsoever through three games. This team is going to need Felix Jones' (seven rushes, 43 yards) playmaking ability sooner rather than later.

5. Panthers - The timeshare was bad enough with two talented backs being held hostage by a lousy quarterback. With Mike Goodson emerging as the passing-down specialist, Carolina now has three talented backs being held hostage by an even lousier quarterback.

6. Cardinals -We covered this backfield above. Wells graduates to RB2 status while Hightower plummets to a mere flex option in PPR leagues.

7. Dolphins - Ricky Williams (7 touches, 28 yards) received four of the first five carries on Sunday, fumbling once and nearly coughing it up again after a lost fumble last week led to a Vikings touchdown. Ronnie Brown (13 touches, 53 yards) ended up leading the team in carries while looking like the stronger runner of the two once again. The two backs have split carries almost down the middle over three games.

8. Bills - Marshawn Lynch (14 touches, 86 yards) started for the second straight week, dominating the early-down workload once again. C.J. Spiller (7 touches, 39 yards, 1 TD) and Fred Jackson (4 touches, 8 yards) played behind Lynch, mostly on passing downs. The staff doesn't yet trust Spiller, but the rookie is too explosive to leave out of the game-plan altogether. F-Jax is beginning to look like the odd man out.

9. Patriots - Picture BenJarvus Green-Ellis (17 touches, 104 yards, 1 TD) as a LenDale White or Marion Barber type of back. While he lacks playmaking ability, he'll stick his nose in there, churning out positive yardage and controlling the clock. With Fred Taylor (6 touches, 16 yards) nursing a toe injury and Kevin Faulk out for the season, "Law Firm" should continue to play a significant role. Sammy Morris is left to fend off potential third-down back Danny Woodhead for scraps.

10. Buccaneers - Cadillac Williams (11 touches, 46 yards) is in danger of losing his job after getting outplayed by rookie LeGarrette Blount, but this backfield is a fantasy minefield. Earnest Graham (6 touches, 70 yards) has taken over as the primary third-down back, and Kareem Huggins could work his way into the mix when he returns from a groin injury.

Falling Out: Giants (Ahmad Bradshaw), Browns (Peyton Hillis), Seahawks (Justin Forsett)

[SIZE=+1]Injury Ward[/SIZE]

Steven Jackson, Rams - Groin
Jahvid Best, Lions - Toe
Ray Rice - Knee
Andre Johnson - Ankle
Demaryius Thomas - Hand / Wrist
Brett Favre - Stinger
Visanthe Shiancoe - Lower leg
Fred Taylor - Toe
Clinton Portis - Wrist
Shawne Merriman - Calf

Matt Stroup's "Sorry, Mr. Jackson" column has in-depth analysis on all of this week's high-impact injuries.

[SIZE=+1]Awards Section[/SIZE]

Stat of the Week: Behind an assertive 8/142/3 performance against the Browns, Anquan Boldin reached 600 receptions faster than any player in NFL history (98 games).

Runner Up: Arian Foster became the first back to top 100 rushing against the Cowboys in 20 games.

Second Runner Up: The Cowboys won their 400th game (including playoffs) since the 1970 AFL-NFL merger, joining the Steelers (406) as the only teams since 1970 with 400 wins.

NFL fun fact that we missed in Week 2: For the first time in the Peyton Manning era, Indianapolis had more rushing attempts (43) than passing attempts (26) in their victory over the Giants.

Quote of the Week: From Vincent Jackson's agent Jonathan Feinsod about Chargers GM A.J. Smith: "Archie Manning had it right. They call him the Lord of No Rings for a reason."

Runner-up: Brett Favre on the key to Minnesota's victory over the Lions: "Our run game... er ... our Adrian Peterson was very good today."

Tweet of the Week: From Raiders beat reporter Jerry McDonald, referencing Mike Singletary's gratitude to Pete Carroll for a Week 1 tail-kicking as wake-up call: "Mike Singletary is going to thank Todd Haley for this."

Runner-up: Panthers fan @bu11dog on Sunday afternoon: "I love living in NC except being forced to watch the Panthers. We're in a drought. I can't even go out and watch grass grow. / Updating my previous tweet, it's raining here, the drought may be over, Carolina still sucks."

Fantasy MVP of Week 3: Michael Vick, Eagles
Fantasy Breakout Player of Week 3: Austin Collie, Colts
Fantasy Rookie of Week 3: C.J. Spiller, Bills
Fantasy Disappointment of Week 3: Jahvid Best, Lions
Fantasy Fraud of Week 3: David Garrard, Jaguars
Fantasy Fluke of Week 3: Matt Cassel, Chiefs

[SIZE=+1]The Shutdown Corner[/SIZE]

Nnamdi Asomugha vs. Larry Fitzgerald, Cardinals - 7 targets, 2 receptions, 26 yards, 1 TD
Champ Bailey vs. Reggie Wayne, Colts - 7 targets, 4 receptions, 65 yards, 0 TD
Darrelle Revis - Deserted

[SIZE=+1]Annual Reminder on Kickers[/SIZE]

Super Bowl hero a/k/a "fat punk kicker" Garrett Hartley, drafted as the No. 1 option in many fantasy leagues, is already in jeopardy of losing his job after missing three bunnies in the first three games -- including the potential game-winner in overtime Sunday. Mike Nugent, undrafted in all but the deepest leagues, is the top scoring fantasy kicker. Never draft a kicker before the final round.

[SIZE=+1]Fine Fifteen Fantasy Offenses[/SIZE]

1. Colts - No Garcon, no problem.
2. Texans - Foster is proving to be elite, but Johnson's ankle is becoming a concern.
3. Packers - Need one reliable back to emerge from current committee.
4. Patriots - Pats' 6.14 yards per play thus far nearly matches the 2007 machine's 6.22 yards per play.
5. Eagles - Lions, Jags = two worst secondaries in the league. Let's not start sucking each other's Vicks just yet.
6. Cowboys - Need more Felix Jones, less Marion Barber.
7. Saints - Turned one-dimensional in Week 3; receivers still hit-or-miss.
8. Chargers - Bolts racked up 519 yards of total offense at Seattle.
9. Broncos - Orton is second only to Philip Rivers in passing yards this year.
10. Bears - Cutler has a 50/50 shot to make it out of Monday night's game in one piece.
11. Ravens - Boldin's Arizona production translating beautifully in Baltimore.
12. Falcons - Turner + Snelling: 44 rushes for 176 yards vs. Champs.
13. Giants - Kings of the garbage-time stats.
14. Vikings - Peterson showing 2007-08 form.
15. Steelers - Poised to enter the top-10 once Big Ben returns.

Falling Out: Lions

[SIZE=+1]Early Waiver Look[/SIZE]

Shallow Leagues

QB - Chad Henne (63%), Mark Sanchez (63%)
RB - Peyton Hillis (68%), Marshawn Lynch (60%), Willis McGahee (63%), Laurence Maroney (54%)
WR - Louis Murphy (50%), Jabar Gaffney (62%)
TE - Aaron Hernandez (53%), John Carlson (56%)

Deeper Leagues

QB - Josh Freeman, Bruce Gradkowski, Ryan Fitzpatrick, Charlie Batch
RB - BenJarvus Green-Ellis, Ryan Torain, Maurice Morris, Kenneth Darby, LeGarrette Blount, Chris Ivory, Mike Goodson, Danny Woodhead
WR - Lance Moore, Kenny Britt, Golden Tate, Brandon Lloyd, Blair White, Josh Cribbs
TE - Tony Scheffler, Jeremy Shockey, Tony Moeaki, Brandon Pettigrew, Kevin Boss

HacheMan · Sep 28, 2010

Bargain Hunting
The beautiful thing about Monday Night Football is that everyone is watching. Other NFL players (see this tweet from Terrell Owens), league executives and owners in your league included.

After Greg Jennings had just two catches for 18 yards Monday night, his value should be near the floor. Yes, he caught an early touchdown, but was virtually non-existent after that. Combine tonight with his 3/36/0 line in Week 2 and owners are surely panicking.

Use this as an opportunity to "buy low." The Bears were playing a Tampa 2 defense that is designed to take away the exact routes that Jennings specializes in. They dared Aaron Rodgers to dump balls off underneath and on quick slants, similar to what Buffalo's quality secondary did in Week 2. Jennings' deep routes were double covered.

This kind of defensive treatment won't last. Jennings gets Detroit's I-AA secondary next week, so buy up quickly. Also note that the Packers play the Lions, Patriots and Giants in Weeks 14 through 16. Jennings will be an elite play during the fantasy playoffs.

Editor's Note: For early rankings every Tuesday morning, tons of exclusive columns, subscriber-only chats, full projections updated all week and much more, get our award-winning Season Pass.

Packers vs. Bears quick slants
Devin Aromashodu was a healthy scratch, confirming his nosedive down the depth chart. If you haven't dropped him yet, do so now. ... Dmitri Nance was inactive for the Packers. He may get a chance soon though with Brandon Jackson looking inept as a runner. ... John Kuhn got the first carry of the game. ... James Jones worked as the third receiver in three-wide sets all night. He was having a good game before his fatal fumble. ... The Bears and Matt Forte are really bad in short yardage. Don't see that changing. ... Jermichael Finley and Aaron Rodgers both dealt with cramps but will be fine. I also still think both will finish first in fantasy points at their respective positions.

<BIG>HEADLINERS</BIG>
NEWS OF THE DAY #1
Steven Jackson's groin injury highlights a major problem with owning him: He has no real handcuff. S-Jax just has a strain and is considered day to day for now. Early signs would point to a true game-time decision for Sunday's game against the Seahawks.

Kenneth Darby would be first up, followed by Keith Toston. Note that Toston sprained his shoulder in Week 3 and that the Rams are reportedly interested in free agent Larry Johnson. A messy situation, indeed. S-Jax owners should add Darby and pray.

NEWS OF THE DAY #2
Chris Johnson has 75 carries through three games, putting him on pace for a ridiculous 400 this season. It's a number that the Titans are well aware of, as coach Jeff Fisher indicated Monday that Javon Ringer's role would expand going forward.

CJ2K owners should take this as good news. Even though Johnson is adept at avoiding big hits, he would almost certainly wear down/get hurt with 25 carries per game. He'll still get his with 20 carries every Sunday.

Editor's Note: Pick a new fantasy team just for today and win real cash with Snapdraft!

NEWS OF THE DAY #3
Ray Rice underwent an MRI Monday that revealed no ligament damage in his knee. The Ravens are saying that he has a "significant" contusion, causing owners to breathe a big sigh of relief.

Still, owners should be handcuffing Willis McGahee at all times. The veteran would immediately become a high-end RB if Rice were to miss time.



<BIG>MONDAY QUICK SLANTS</BIG>
DEPTH CHART QUICK SLANTS: FIRST DOWN
LaDainian Tomlinson started ahead of Shonn Greene Sunday night. ... Beanie Wells is expected to get more carries than Tim Hightower going forward despite not starting. ... David Garrard would be out of a job if the Jags had an realistic backup options. ... Clinton Portis was used sparingly in the second half Sunday due to his wrist injury. ... The Bucs are planning on decreasing Cadillac Williams' workload going forward and adding to LeGarrette Blount's. ... The Browns are expected to stick with Peyton Hillis going forward. ... The 49ers fired offensive coordinator Jimmy Raye. It can only be good news for Michael Crabtree. ... The Bengals continue to insist they are going to reduce Cedric Benson's workload.

DEPTH CHART QUICK SLANTS: SECOND DOWN
The Saints are working out Kris Brown and John Carney, but have not canned Garrett Hartley yet. ... Ryan Torain played ahead of Keiland Williams as the No. 2 back Sunday. ... Coach Ken Whisenhunt reiterated that he's sticking with Derek Anderson. ... Chris Ivory got a vote of confidence as Pierre Thomas' backup despite a poor showing Sunday. ... Jimmy Clausen is expected to start again in Week 4. ... Arrelious Benn will get more playing time when the Bucs come out of their bye. ... Vince Young's benching in Week 2 was possibly related to some missed meetings. ... Aaron Hernandez's playing time has risen from 29 snaps in Week 1 to 52 snaps last week. ... Bills cut Trent Edwards, who is reportedly drawing interest from the Niners and Seahawks.

INJURY QUICK SLANTS: FIRST DOWN
Jahvid Best has a Grade 2 case of turf toe. He's tentatively expected to play this week. ... Andre Johnson (ankle) could be given a week off. Look for a game-time decision. ... Steve Breaston (knee) was spotted limping through the locker room Monday. ... Demaryius Thomas (forearm/elbow) is expected to practice this week. .... Jason Witten reportedly has a sprained MCL as the Cowboys go into their bye. ... Ryan Mathews (ankle) is questionable for Wednesday's practice. ... Brent Celek is dealing with a wrist contusion. ... Pierre Thomas tweaked his ankle late in Sunday's loss. ... Jerome Harrison (thigh) hopes to return to practice this week, but he'll return as a backup.

INJURY QUICK SLANTS: SECOND DOWN
Mike Williams (shoulder) is in danger of missing Week 4. Upgrade Deon Butler. ... Josh Morgan's knee injury is not expected to be serious. ... Matthew Stafford (shoulder) is expected to do some light throwing this week. ... Nate Burleson (ankle) is targeting this week for his return. ... Knowshon Moreno's hamstring injury is not as severe as the one he suffered in camp. His status for Week 4 is unknown. ... Sidney Rice (hip) is still targeting a Week 8 return.

<BIG>WAIVERS</BIG>
DEFENSIVE SPOT STARTS
Adding a different defense each week based on matchups is a fine strategy. Each week in this space, I'll give out three defensive units that are likely available in your league to consider for streaming purposes. The options are getting hairier due to the bye week, but we can still manage.

1. SAINTS vs. Panthers: Carolina is going to throw Jimmy Clausen back out to the wolves. As bad as Matt Moore was in his two starts, Clausen was worse. The Saints are a big-play unit when given the opportunity.

2. BENGALS at Browns: Against Carolina last week, the Bengals allowed just seven points and forced four turnovers. They can single up their elite corners against Cleveland's miserable receiving corps and put everyone else in the box.

3. CHARGERS vs. Cardinals: San Diego responded to an ugly road loss in Week 1 with a dominating home performance in Week 2. Now they'll be angry and motivated again following an embarrassing loss to the Seahawks.

HacheMan · Sep 28, 2010

Receiver Roulette
Fantasy leaguers are playing receiver roulette this year with the NFL's highest-powered offenses. Gone are the days when Randy Moss and Cris Carter gobbled up all of the Vikings' receiving yards or Marvin Harrison and Reggie Wayne split the Colts' production.

This year, we're left guessing which slot on the wheel the ball will come to rest each week in Green Bay, Denver, Indy, New Orleans, San Diego, and even Houston.

Denizens of the waiver wire have already enjoyed flings with Broncos receivers Eddie Royal, Demaryius Thomas, and perhaps Brandon Lloyd. In shallow leagues, Jabar Gaffney is back in the picture while Lloyd remains an option.

The picture is similarly bleak in New Orleans, where Robert Meachem and Devery Henderson were drafted only to be put on the back burner in favor of the running backs, tight ends, and now Lance Moore. Coming off a 149-yard, two-touchdown performance, Moore has to be picked up this week. Just don't be surprised if he's back in the shadows next week with Meachem or Henderson in the spotlight.

***

As the bye weeks begin to roll in, we see a major difference in waiver wire options between 10-team leagues and 12-teams leagues. This column has always been geared toward 12-teamers because that's the format in the majority of fantasy leagues.

For those in shallow leagues, my top-twelve this week would be:

1. Peyton Hillis
2. Aaron Hernandez
3. Louis Murphy
4. Marshawn Lynch
5. John Carlson
6. Willis McGahee
7. Jabar Gaffney
8. BenJarvus Green-Ellis
9. Ryan Torain
10. Lee Evans
11. Lance Moore
12. Laurence Maroney

For those in deeper leagues, that top-twelve list doesn't look nearly as appetizing:

1. Louis Murphy
2. BenJarvus Green-Ellis
3. Ryan Torain
4. Lance Moore
5. Golden Tate
6. Brandon Lloyd
7. Chris Ivory
8. LeGarrette Blount
9. Jeremy Shockey
10. Bruce Gradkowski
11. Tony Scheffler
12. Matt Hasselbeck

On to the players. Here is how I rank the top players available at each position as we head into Week 4. Full writeups of each player are below.

***

Editor's Note: Join subscriber only chats, get weekly rankings before anyone else, plus exclusive weekly projections, stat tools, dynasty ranks, columns, and much more including the Rotoworld Oracle in our Season Pass.

Quarterbacks
1. Bruce Gradkowski
2. Matt Hasselbeck
3. Sam Bradford
4. Josh Freeman (Week 4 bye)
5. Ryan Fitzpatrick
6. Kevin Kolb

**Note: Chad Henne (63 percent) and Mark Sanchez (63 percent) are already owned in over half of CBSSports.com leagues. If they're available, they should be the Nos. 1 and 2 options at quarterback this week.

Running Backs
1. BenJarvus Green-Ellis
2. Ryan Torain
3. Chris Ivory
4. LeGarrette Blount
5. Kenneth Darby
6. Maurice Morris
7. John Kuhn
8. Mike Goodson
9. Larry Johnson

**Note: Peyton Hillis (68 percent), Marshawn Lynch (60 percent), Willis McGahee (63 percent) and Laurence Maroney (55 percent) are already owned in over half of CBSSports.com leagues. If Hillis and Lynch are available, they are easily the top two waiver options at running back this week. McGahee and Maroney are far less appetizing.

Wide Receivers
1. Louis Murphy
2. Lance Moore
3. Brandon Lloyd
4. Golden Tate
5. Kenny Britt
6. James Jones
7. Davone Bess
8. Danny Amendola
9. Blair White
10. Joshua Cribbs

**Note: Jabar Gaffney (62 percent) and Lee Evans (65 percent) are already owned in over half of CBSSports.com leagues. Both receivers would fall in line behind Murphy if they're available.

Tight Ends
1. Jeremy Shockey
2. Tony Moeaki (Week 4 bye)
3. Tony Scheffler

**Note: Aaron Hernandez (53 percent) and John Carlson (56 percent) are owned in over half of CBSSports.com leagues. If Hernandez is available in a mandatory tight end league, he should be the top overall waiver choice this week. Carlson would fall in line behind him and in front of Shockey on the tight end list.

Defense/Special Teams
1. Giants
2. Falcons

[SIZE=+1]Quarterbacks[/SIZE]

Bruce Gradkowski, Raiders - I'm under no illusions about Gradkowski's talent. This is all about finding the best possible matchup for owners with Tony Romo or Brett Favre on bye this week. The Texans stroll into Oakland this week, carrying along a secondary with the second-worst three-game stretch in the NFL since 1950. Houston's young corners have surrendered an unthinkable 368.7 yards and two touchdowns per game on the young season.

Recommendation: Worth a look as a matchup play

Matt Hasselbeck, Seahawks - Thanks in large part to two rushing scores, Hasselbeck is surprisingly tied with Matt Schaub at No. 10 among fantasy QBs through three weeks. While we can't expect him to keep that up in a weak offense, Hasselbeck is an acceptable matchup play this week at St. Louis.

Recommendation: Worth a look in 12-team leagues

Sam Bradford, Rams - If your league doesn't penalize for turnovers, Bradford should be rostered as a QB2 with intriguing upside. The rookie starter has been incredibly consistent from a fantasy point of view, notching 16-17 points in all three games. With Mark Clayton emerging as a bona fide go-to target, Bradford isn't a bad choice for a fill-in start against a Seahawks team allowing the ninth-most points to opposing quarterbacks.

Recommendation: Worth a look in 12-team leagues

Josh Freeman, Buccaneers - Warning: Freeman has a bye this week. For those owners searching only for a backup, though, fantasy's No. 15 quarterback is worth carrying as a high-upside QB2. Freeman held his own against a dominant Steelers defense, completing 64.5 percent of his passes with just one turnover. The steady improvement is a promising sign.

Recommendation: Should be owned in 12-team leagues

Ryan Fitzpatrick, Bills - While he exceeded expectations that couldn't have been lower at New England, Fitzpatrick is a poor bet for continued success. In 21 career games with 10+ passing attempts, Fitzpatrick has cleared 200 passing yards just five times. Don't look for number six against the Jets this week.

Recommendation: Worth a look in two-quarterback leagues

Kevin Kolb, Eagles - Kolb is worthy of a roster stash in 12-team leagues for the same reason Michael Vick was: if he finds his way into the starting lineup, he has QB1 upside. Vick is getting hit more than ever behind a poor pass-blocking line. If he goes down, Kolb is an immediate fantasy starter.

Recommendation: Worth a stash in 12-team leagues

Cut Bait: Jimmy Clausen, Charlie Batch

Clausen showed no pocket presence, no touch, stared down his receivers, and was shackled by ultra-conservative play-calling. He's not ready. ... Batch has a red-light matchup against the Ravens in his last start before Big Ben returns.

Hold Off: Matt Cassel, Shaun Hill, Derek Anderson

Don't let Cassel's fluky three-touchdown performance fool you; he's holding the offense back. ... Hill is about to get swarmed by Clay Matthews at Green Bay. ... Anderson is in danger of getting pulled every week.



[SIZE=+1]Running Backs[/SIZE]

BenJarvus Green-Ellis, Patriots - "Law Firm" is only worthy of a fantasy start this week at Miami if Fred Taylor's toe keeps him out of the lineup. As the team leader in attempts, yards, and yards per carry, though, he merits a roster spot in all leagues regardless. Green-Ellis is far from a dynamic talent, but he's shown several times now that he can at least get what's blocked while keeping the chains the moving. In the second-best offense of the Tom Brady era, that's enough.

Recommendation: Should be owned in all leagues

Ryan Torain, Redskins - Keiland Williams is yesterday's news. Mike Shanahan is up to his old shenanigans, signing a back off his practice squad late in the week and throwing him right into the mix as Clinton Portis' committee partner. Nobody knows what Week 4 will bring in this backfield, but Shanny is at least making noise about using Torain on early downs with Portis as a passing-down specialist. Though Torain is a poor bet to stay healthy and effective, he's more deserving of a roster spot than Williams at this point.

Recommendation: Worth a look in 12-team leagues

Chris Ivory, Saints - With Reggie Bush out for six weeks, the Saints rushed Ivory back to action as Pierre Thomas' backfield mate. Ivory is clearly ahead of Ladell Betts in the pecking order. Thomas' late-game scare drove home the point that the undrafted rookie is just one injury from the feature back job in one of the league's most dangerous offenses.

Recommendation: Should be owned in 12-team leagues

LeGarrette Blount, Buccaneers - As the latest threat to Cadillac Williams' workload, Blount is worth consideration as a RB4 pickup. This is hardly a recipe for fantasy success, however. Blount is a mediocre talent, Earnest Graham is playing on passing downs, Kareem Huggins looms as a change-of-pace option, and Caddy could stay involved to some degree.

Recommendation: Worth a look in 12-team leagues

Kenneth Darby, Rams - Steven Jackson played through a broken back last season, so I'd be leery of betting on a strained groin keeping him out this week. If Darby does end up drawing the start against the Seahawks, he'd be no more than a flex option while splitting touches with Keith Toston and possibly Chauncey Washington.

Recommendation: Worth a look 12-team leagues

Maurice Morris, Lions - Morris' situation is similar to Darby's, but he draws a top-five run defense at Green Bay if Jahvid Best's turf toe keeps him out this week. Best's ability to play is expected to come down to pain tolerance, so we won't have a good read on his chances to suit up until later in the week. If Best is forced to sit out, Morris could end up splitting snaps with Kevin Smith. Skepticism is advised.

Recommendation: Worth a look in 12-team leagues

John Kuhn, Packers - If the Packers consider themselves a legit Super Bowl contender, they need to go out and find an NFL running back. Kuhn has outproduced third-down back Brandon Jackson for two straight games, but he's not the answer as a destitute man's Peyton Hillis.

Recommendation: Worth a look in deeper leagues

Mike Goodson, Panthers - Goodson has only carried the ball five times through three games, but his 111 receiving yards are fifth among running backs. The third-down back led the Panthers in targets last week. There's more where that came from if check-down master Jimmy Clausen gets the call again at New Orleans this week.

Recommendation: Worth a look in PPR leagues

Larry Johnson, Free Agent - L.J. will be a mainstay in the rumor mill, but it doesn't look like the Rams are serious about signing him as S-Jax insurance. Leave him on the wire until he finds a team. Even then, it's debatable that he'd be worthy of a roster spot as a washed-up timeshare back.

Recommendation: Hold off in all but the deepest leagues

Long-Term Fliers: Danny Woodhead, Kareem Huggins, Javon Ringer, Bernard Scott, Keith Toston, Dimitri Nance, James Starks

Those in PPR leagues should keep an eye on Woodhead to see if he grows into the Kevin Faulk role. ... Jeff Fisher is making noise about increasing Ringer's role. ... Nance could get a look-see in the Packers backfield, but it's not a positive sign that he was deactivated in Week 3. ... Has Huggins been bypassed by Blount?



[SIZE=+1]Wide Receivers[/SIZE]

Louis Murphy, Raiders - I'm going to keep recommending him until he's owned in more than half of all CBSSports.com leagues. Murphy has averaged eight targets, 5.5 receptions, and 105 yards the past two weeks with Bruce Gradkowski taking over. It goes without saying that Murphy has better hands than Darrius Heyward-Bey, and he also brings superior playmaking ability and route running. Pick him up and start him in a dream matchup against the Texans

Recommendation: Should be owned in all leagues

Lance Moore, Saints - Last week, we briefly touched on Moore's history of producing with Reggie Bush out of the lineup. Thanks in large part to blown coverage on an 80-yard touchdown, Moore exceeded expectations with a 6/149/2 performance. While the Saints' wide receiver production remains unpredictable, Moore is easily the team's best option to work the middle with Bush sidelined. He's a legit WR3 option against the Panthers this week.

Recommendation: Should be owned in 12-team leagues

Brandon Lloyd, Broncos - Though Lloyd is doing his best to shed the "tease" label, I'm still advising skepticism. Kyle Orton won't come close to matching his 57 passing attempts at Tennessee this week, Demaryius Thomas' role will continue to grow at Lloyd's expense, and the Broncos receivers are the perfect example of receiver roulette. Lloyd is worthy of a roster spot in 12-team leagues, but I'd keep him on the bench against the Titans.

Recommendation: Worth a look in 12-team leagues

Golden Tate, Seahawks - Coach Pete Carroll made noise last week about increasing the offensive roles of both Tate and Deon Butler. Tate, at least, was more involved with four receptions for 33 yards. Deion Branch is only holding back better talents, so Tate's role will grow at his expense. At this point, I'd rather carry the rookie than any other Seattle receiver, including Big Mike Williams.

Recommendation: Worth a look in 12-team leagues

Kenny Britt, Titans - Britt is back on the radar after an impressive touchdown grab against the Giants. Tennessee's passing "attack" has taken several steps back since Vince Young was pulled in Week 2. If the Titans are going to graduate to an NFL-caliber passing team, their most talented receiver will need to be featured more heavily going forward.

Recommendation: Should be stashed in 12-team leagues

James Jones, Packers - The Packers' No. 3 receiver has more targets (12 to 11) and production (87 yards to 54 yards) than Greg Jennings over the past two weeks. While he's not worthy of WR3 consideration just yet, Jones is worth carrying in case any of the Packers' top three options go down.

Recommendation: Should be stashed in 12-team leagues

Davone Bess, Dolphins - Bess has just three touchdowns on 143 career receptions. In other words, he's never going to be a realistic option in standard-scoring leagues. In PPR leagues, though, Bess has topped 11 points in two-of-three games thus far. He's a much more reliable option than Brian Hartline going forward.

Recommendation: Should be owned in PPR leagues

Danny Amendola, Rams - Similar to Bess in that he won't find the end zone, Amendola has consistently hit 8-12 points in PPR formats over the first three weeks. With Sam Bradford bringing relevance to the Rams' passing game, Amendola should be owned in all PPR leagues. He has a strong chance to lead the team in receptions this year.

Recommendation: Should be owned in PPR leagues

Blair White, Colts - Keep an eye on Pierre Garcon's hamstring injury. If Blair gets the call as the Colts' No. 3 receiver again this week, he's worth a look as a bye-week fill-in against the Jaguars' burnable secondary.

Recommendation: Worth a look as a fill-in

Joshua Cribbs, Browns - With Brian Robiskie (hamstring) out, Cribbs drew the start against the Ravens and didn't disappoint. Perhaps the Browns should make this a permanent vacation for Robiskie. Cribbs is obviously the superior playmaker, and Robiskie is bringing nothing to the offense. I don't have the faith in Cribbs to use him as a weekly starter, but he's worth hanging onto if only to see how events unfold.

Recommendation: Worth a look in deeper leagues

Long-Term Fliers: Deon Butler, Arrelious Benn, Julian Edelman, Devin Thomas, Craig Davis

One of these games, Butler's role actually will increase. ... Look for Benn to begin starting opposite Mike Williams when the Bucs come out of their Week 4 bye. ... Thomas is too talented to sit the bench in D.C. all year long.

Cut Bait: Mike Williams (SEA), Jerricho Cotchery, Mohamed Massaquoi, T.J. Houshmandzadeh, Laurent Robinson, Chris Chambers, Harry Douglas, Greg Camarillo, Nate Washington, Stephen Williams

Drop Williams and carry Golden Tate instead. ... Cotchery is about to get lost in the shuffle with Santonio Holmes returning in Week 5. ... Massaquoi needs Jake Delhomme back; even then he's not a WR3. ... Housh is an afterthought so far. ... Robinson lost his job to Mark Clayton. ... Douglas showed nothing with Michael Jenkins out.

Hold Off: Roy Williams, Darrius Heyward-Bey, Dexter McCluster, Brian Hartline, Deion Branch, Roscoe Parrish, Steve Johnson

Williams can thank a Kareem Jackson slip for his Week 3 breakout game. It won't happen again with Dez Bryant coming like a freight train. ... DHB is getting plenty of targets, but he still can't catch. ... McCluster is a gadget player. ... The Dolphins won't throw enough for Hartline to have consistent value.



[SIZE=+1]Tight Ends[/SIZE]

Jeremy Shockey, Saints - After two weeks of looking like the least athletic player on the field, Shockey channeled 2005 on his way to eight receptions, 78 yards, and a score against the Falcons. Drew Brees will continue to look to his veteran tight end to pick up the slack with Reggie Bush out. Shockey is a borderline TE1 option against Carolina this week.

Recommendation: Should be owned in 12-team leagues

Tony Moeaki, Chiefs - Matt Cassel's favorite receiver is the No. 7 fantasy tight end through three weeks of action. He's scored a touchdown or cleared 50 yards in all three games, leading the team in targets along the way. If not for a Week 4 bye, he would top the tight end list this week.

Recommendation: Worth a look in 12-team leagues

Tony Scheffler, Lions - Scheffler has hauled in at least six passes in two-of-three games, but his upside is limited while splitting production with Brandon Pettigrew. Both he and Pettigrew are worth carrying as TE2 options, but they should be benched at Green Bay this week.

Recommendation: Worth a look in 12-team leagues

Hold Off: Kevin Boss, Ben Watson

Boss' 88 yards in Week 3 will be his high-water mark for the season. ... Watson is overly reliant on touchdowns, which is problematic in the Browns' offense.

[SIZE=+1]Defense/Special Teams[/SIZE]

Giants - The Bears aren't nearly as good as their 3-0 record, and they're due for a serious letdown at the Giants in Week 4. Jay Cutler is getting bum-rushed relentlessly behind a patchwork O-Line, and he lucked his way out of multiple interceptions on Monday night. There's a chance that it all comes crashing down next week.

Recommendation: Worth a look as a matchup play

Falcons - The reeling 49ers visit Atlanta this week, with a turnover prone Alex Smith and a brand new offensive coordinator. The Falcons' run defense has been far stingier than expected, so Smith will have to force the action through the air.

Recommendation: Worth a look as a matchup play

HacheMan · Sep 29, 2010

The Best Toe
The only way Jahvid Best was a "sell high" candidate after his Week 2 breakout was if you believed he would get hurt. After all, Best isn't the biggest guy in the world (5'10/195) and was serving as Detroit's early-down, third-down and goal-line back. This was after he was already tagged with an "injury prone" label while at Cal.

So seeing Best leave the game with a toe injury was pretty disconcerting for owners. For a player that relies so heavily on his speed, Best can't afford any limitations. To get a read on Best and a few other injuries around the league, we chatted with Dr. Brian Eckenrode, a board-certified orthopedic clinical specialist and the sports team leader for GSPP Penn Therapy and Fitness at the Penn Sports Medicine Center in Philadelphia.

Editor's Note: For early rankings every Tuesday morning, tons of exclusive columns, subscriber-only chats, full projections updated all week and much more, get our award-winning Season Pass.

<BIG>JAHVID BEST</BIG>
Injury: Grade 2 case of turf toe
Timetable: Questionable for Week 4

What is turf toe? Basically it's where the big toe meets the rest of the toe. It's like a hyperextension injury where it's stretched too far. A Grade 2 is often where the ligament capsules that stabilize the joint are torn a little bit. So the timeframe to return is a little bit longer than a Grade 1, where the joint is just stretched out.

How long are players usually out with this? It depends on the situation, but often times players may miss a week to two weeks or even more with a Grade 2. They'll probably put a little plate or tape it to prevent it from bending. Basically if he cant walk without pain, he's not going to be able to play. That's the first thing they'll look for, because every time he pushes off that foot, the big toe rolls back and if it's painful, he's not going to be able to run.

There are reports out there that it's simply a pain issue. Can Best take an injection? Maybe 10 or 15 years ago they would do a lot more needles in guys joints and have them go back out there and play. Now you hear about it less often, maybe it's just not reported as often. But certainly that would be an option to get him back to playing.

Can this injury be aggravated by playing on it? Oh yeah, definitely. Some of these guys have had this nagging at them all year. You can only control the amount of motion in that foot so much. If he was a lineman, he might be able to manage a little better but since he has to sprint and get power off his legs, that's a recurring issue.

His biggest asset is his speed. Is that going to be limited if he tries to play this week? This upcoming week, I think it would be an issue. Just because you don't know what to expect. Since they're saying Grade 2, that's not just something light to deal with.

ROTOWORLD OPINION: Keep a close eye on the practice reports, but know that Best sat out almost the entire second half in Week 3. Even if he plays, he has a poor matchup (at Green Bay) and may be spelled more than usual. Have other options at the ready.

<BIG>SIDNEY RICE</BIG>
Injury: Hip surgery in late August
Timetable: Targeting Week 8

We''e still not sure about the exact nature of the surgery, but Rice insists he'll be ready by Week 8. Does that sound realistic? The earliest you would get someone back is that eight-week timeframe. So, they're obviously pushing him and he's going to push himself for that Week 8 mark.

He's still in the pool and on crutches. What does that tell you? That Week 8 target is feasible. He won't be playing every snap right away, but maybe him at 85 percent is better than not having him at all. I would expect that if he is going to be able to play at Week 8 he's not going to be playing at the same capacity he was playing at last year. And then over the weeks it will certainly improve.

What's his rehab timetable like? Once he can get off crutches, walk without a problem and gets cleared to start running again, he's going to start straight plane running. First forward and backward, then 45 degree cuts, then 90 degree cuts while making sure he feels comfortable doing it. That's why I say Week 8 is going to be a little bit of a stretch for him to be 100 percent.

ROTOWORLD OPINION: Rice should be owned in all leagues. His absence is glaring in the Vikings' offense and even if he's less than 100 percent, he should have an immediate impact. Rice will have a major fantasy asset down the stretch.

<BIG>RAY RICE</BIG>
Injury: Significant knee contusion
Timetable: Expected to play

A knee contusion, is just a bad bruise, right? Yeah, it's a matter of how much swelling they can get out of there and how much pain he feels when he's running and pushing off. Considering he had to have the MRI, he's probably not going to feel great on it by Sunday. He probably can get out there and give it a go, but it's scary because its bad enough he needed an MRI.

He can't take an injection for the pain? No. There's no fracture, no ligament, no cartilage injury. It's just fighting that contusion.

ROTOWORLD OPINION: It's really, really hard to sit a player of Rice's caliber. If he's active, you have to play him even though he'll be at less than 100 percent and facing Pittsburgh's rugged run defense.

<BIG>STEVEN JACKSON</BIG>
Injury: Groin strain
Timetable: Questionable for Week 4

Does it make a difference that Jackson's groin was injured when his leg was pulled instead of a non-contact injury? If some guy is pulling his legs apart, I wouldn't suspect that he would need as much time as if he did it via cutting or running. This sounds like more of a freak thing.

He's day to day right now, but the Rams are still bringing in backups. Could the Rams limit his reps? He's got a breach, he's got something that's not 100 percent. I wouldn't be surprised if they took it easy on him this week.

ROTOWORLD OPINION: Jackson is a guy that will play through injuries, but the Rams need to be careful that he doesn't aggravate this. But just like Rice, if Jackson is active you have to play him. Even if he gets just 15 touches, he's almost certainly better than your other options.

The Upenn rehab specialists interviewed in this story have not examined the athletes discussed. Their statements are general guidelines regarding their experience with injured athletes, and should not be taken as medical opinions.

For more information on Brian Eckenrode, PT, DPT, OCS and GSPP Penn Therapy and Fitness, visit phillyrehab.com.

Editor's Note: Pick a new fantasy team just for today and win real cash with Snapdraft!



<BIG>TUESDAY HEADLINES</BIG>

NEWS OF THE DAY #1
On Monday, Steve Breaston was spotted walking around the locker room with a limp. So it shouldn't be a huge surprise that he is out until Week 7 with a torn meniscus. It's not a major procedure and Breaston should be fine upon his return.

In the meantime, undrafted rookie Stephen Williams will take over No. 2 WR duties. He'll see a ton of single coverage as defenses double and triple cover Larry Fitzgerald. He has good size/speed but is extremely raw and makes plenty of mental errors. Williams should be added in most formats even though his upside is capped by Derek Anderson's woes.

NEWS OF THE DAY #2
Andre Johnson (ankle) said that he doesn't have "any doubts at all" about playing against the Raiders this week. It's obvious that Johnson doesn't have a high ankle sprain as originally reported, because that injury usually keeps players out a month.

Johnson has a normal ankle sprain and will simply have to manage it. He'll be listed as questionable again, but owners should pencil him in lineups.

NEWS OF THE DAY #3
LaDainian Tomlinson played 42 snaps in Week 3 while Shonn Greene played 17. Any questions about who is the lead back here? For now, Tomlinson is outplaying Greene, starting and getting the nod at the goal line. He's clearly the preferred option. If he can hold up at age 31 is another story.

NEWS OF THE DAY #4
The Bills have let it be known they will at least start listening to offers for Marshawn Lynch, according to ESPN Milwaukee. And after watching Brandon Jackson struggle for the second straight week Monday, the Packers should be calling. Will they? It still doesn't seem likely. Owners should be simply be happy with Lynch's 30 carries in the last two weeks while waiting for a possible trade.

INJURY QUICK SLANTS
Pierre Garcon's (hamstring) status won't be known until Friday or Saturday. Don't count him. ... Clinton Portis (wrist) said he has "no idea" if he'll start this week. ... Dez Bryant played with a stress fracture in his ribs last week. The bye week should do him wonders. ... Seneca Wallace is expected to start in place of Jake Delhomme (ankle) again this week. ... It turns out Demaryius Thomas didn't even need X-rays on his arm. He's fine. ... Jason Witten (knee) says he'll be ready to play when the Cowboys come out of their bye. ... Ryan Mathews (ankle) went through a pain-free workout Monday.

DEPTH CHART QUICK SLANTS
Trent Edwards was claimed by the Jaguars and could eventually be called upon to start. David Garrard has been that bad. ... The Saints signed John Carney to replace Garrett Hartley. The veteran is worth an add. ... Charlie Batch will start again Sunday, as expected. ... Kevin Smith is expected to finally be active Sunday.