Start 'Em, Sit 'Em Week 10: Wide receivers.
Start 'Em
vs.
Start of the Week - Larry Fitzgerald vs. San Francisco 49ers
Fitzgerald has owned the 49ers during his illustrious career, which was evident earlier this season when he posted 20.1 fantasy points against them in a Week 5 contest. The veteran has also averaged 11 targets and 8.3 receptions with four touchdowns in his last three contests against San Francisco. Be sure to activate Fitzgerald.
vs.
Alshon Jeffery vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
The return of Jay Cutler was great news for Jeffery, who posted his best fantasy stat line of the season in Week 8. Next on the schedule is a date with the Buccaneers, who have allowed 12 touchdown catches and the most fantasy points to opposing wide receivers (28.1 PPG) in 2016. Start Jeffery as a No. 2 fantasy wideout this weekend.
vs.
Terrelle Pryor vs. Baltimore Ravens
Pryor has emerged into one of the top wide receivers in fantasy football this season. Not bad for someone who was a quarterback in 2013, right? Be sure to keep him active for a Thursday night matchup versus the Ravens, who have allowed 14 touchdowns and the third-most points to opposing wide receivers (26.9 PPG) after nine weeks.
vs.
Tyrell Williams vs. Miami Dolphins
Williams, listed as a sleeper last week, put up a touchdown and 12.5 points against the Titans. He has now scored 12-plus points in three of his last five contests, and the two games he failed to hit that mark were against a stout Denver pass defense. I'd start Williams against a Dolphins defense that has struggled against wide receivers.
vs.
Jordan Matthews vs. Atlanta Falcons
Matthews hasn't been the most consistent wideout in fantasy football, but he has scored a combined 21.3 fantasy points in his last two games. I'd keep him active ahead of a home matchup against the Falcons, who have surrendered the second-most yards (1,624), touchdowns (14) and fantasy points (27.8 PPG) to wide receivers.
Sleepers:
Kenny Britt at Jets, J.J. Nelson vs. 49ers
Sit 'Em
vs.
Sit of the Week - Doug Baldwin vs. New England Patriots
Baldwin had a quick stroll in the garden of fantasy stardom, but he's failed to put up the same sort of numbers that launched him into the spotlight last season. Fans should consider him a risk this week in New England against a defense that's given up just six touchdowns and an average of 20.8 fantasy points a game to wideouts.
vs.
Stefon Diggs vs. Washington Redskins
Diggs has woken up a bit in the last two weeks, scoring a combined 22.8 fantasy points in losses to the Bears and Lions. With that said, don't be surprised if he takes a statistical step back in Washington. While his targets numbers have been high, a matchup with Josh Norman could be enough for Diggs to post a more mediocre line.
vs.
Julian Edelman vs. Seattle Seahawks
Edelman scored his first touchdown of the season against the Bills before New England's bye week, but it wasn't enough for him to produce a double-digit performance in the stat sheets (9.7). With a lot of options in the pass attack and a difficult matchup against Seattle up next, Edelman is a very difficult sell in most standard formats.
vs.
DeSean Jackson vs. Minnesota Vikings
Jackson has lost his spot as the top fantasy wideout in Washington, as Jamison Crowder has taken that title with a solid stretch of recent games. Regardless, it's tough to consider the veteran this week when he'll face a Minnesota defense that has allowed the second-fewest yards (906) and fantasy points to (15.4 PPG) to wideouts.
vs.
Sterling Shepard vs. Cincinnati Bengals
Shepard found the end zone and scored 11 fantasy points in last week's win over the Eagles, but don't chase the points ahead of this week's Monday night matchup against the Bengals. While their defense hasn't been what you would call stout, this unit has still surrendered the seventh-fewest points to receivers (21.2 PPG).
Busts:
Brandin Cooks vs. Broncos, Dez Bryant at Steelers
Start 'Em, Sit 'Em Week 10: Quarterbacks.
Start 'Em
vs.
Start of the Week - Cam Newton vs. Kansas City Chiefs
Yes, it has come to this ... I now have to deliver affirmation for fantasy owners who have Newton. Superman has looked more like Clark Kent in his last two games, scoring a combined 27.38 points. The good news is that he next faces a Chiefs unit that has allowed 18-plus fantasy points to four of the last five opposing quarterbacks.
vs.
Ben Roethlisberger vs. Dallas Cowboys
Roethlisberger looked bad in last week's road loss to the Ravens, but he's a different quarterback at Heinz Field. In fact, the veteran has scored no fewer than 19.7 fantasy points in each of his last seven home games. That includes six games with more than 21 points. Keep Big Ben active against a banged up Cowboys pass defense.
vs.
Marcus Mariota vs. Green Bay Packers
Mariota has been on fire in recent weeks, scoring 19-plus fantasy points in four of his last five games including three games with 25-plus points. I like him at home against the Packers, who have surrendered an average of 20.7 points per contest to opposing quarterbacks in four roadies. Start Mariota with confidence at home this weekend.
vs.
Jameis Winston vs. Chicago Bears
The Buccaneers might not be winning on the field, but Winston has helped owners win in fantasy land. In his last three games, he's averaged more than 20 fantasy points including eight touchdown passes. I like Winston in a home matchup against the Bears, who have allowed 22-plus points to quarterbacks in their last three roadies.
vs.
Eli Manning vs. Cincinnati Bengals
Manning has been difficult to predict all season long, so take this weekend's matchup against the Bengals with a grain of salt. Cincinnati's defense has been awful against quarterbacks, allowing an average of almost 20 fantasy points per game to the position this season. That makes Manning a very streamable asset for owners.
Sleepers:
Joe Flacco vs. Browns (TNF), Jay Cutler at Buccaneers
Sit 'Em
vs.
Sit of the Week - Colin Kaepernick vs. Arizona Cardinals
I predicted that Kaepernick would be a top-10 fantasy quarterback last week, and he delivered with over an impressive 22 points. That was against the Saints, however. Now the mobile Kaepernick faces the Cardinals, who are coming off a bye week and have allowed the second-fewest fantasy points (12.3 PPG) to opposing quarterbacks.
vs.
Andy Dalton vs. New York Giants
Dalton has been a solid option for fantasy fans, scoring 19-plus fantasy points in each of his last four games. Keep in mind though, that he next faces a Giants defense that has allowed an average of just 13.2 fantasy points per game to quarterbacks. Furthermore, Dalton has been far less than reliable in front of national audiences.
vs.
Blake Bortles vs. Houston Texans
I blew the call to sit Bortles last week (he scored 21.5 points), but I will stick to the numbers and warn fantasy fans against him once again. That's due to a matchup against the Texans, who have allowed just six touchdown passes and an average of 13 fantasy points per game to quarterbacks this season. Beware Bortles this weekend.
vs.
Kirk Cousins vs. Minnesota Vikings
Cousins had a nice three-game stretch before Washington's bye, averaging a solid 21 fantasy points per contest. Still, it's hard to advise owners to start him ahead of a tough home matchup against the Vikings. Their defense has surrendered a mere eight touchdowns and the third-fewest fantasy points (12.5 PPG) to signal-callers.
vs.
Ryan Tannehill vs. San Diego Chargers
Tannehill burned a lot of fantasy fans who streamed him last week based on a nice matchup against the Jets. Now he'll travel to San Diego to face the Chargers, who have allowed an average of more than 17 fantasy points per game to quarterbacks. On the flip side, Tannehill hasn't hit that fantasy total in each of his last five starts.
Busts:
Russell Wilson at Patriots, Sam Bradford at Redskins
Start 'Em
vs.
Start of the Week - Cam Newton vs. Kansas City Chiefs
Yes, it has come to this ... I now have to deliver affirmation for fantasy owners who have Newton. Superman has looked more like Clark Kent in his last two games, scoring a combined 27.38 points. The good news is that he next faces a Chiefs unit that has allowed 18-plus fantasy points to four of the last five opposing quarterbacks.
vs.
Ben Roethlisberger vs. Dallas Cowboys
Roethlisberger looked bad in last week's road loss to the Ravens, but he's a different quarterback at Heinz Field. In fact, the veteran has scored no fewer than 19.7 fantasy points in each of his last seven home games. That includes six games with more than 21 points. Keep Big Ben active against a banged up Cowboys pass defense.
vs.
Marcus Mariota vs. Green Bay Packers
Mariota has been on fire in recent weeks, scoring 19-plus fantasy points in four of his last five games including three games with 25-plus points. I like him at home against the Packers, who have surrendered an average of 20.7 points per contest to opposing quarterbacks in four roadies. Start Mariota with confidence at home this weekend.
vs.
Jameis Winston vs. Chicago Bears
The Buccaneers might not be winning on the field, but Winston has helped owners win in fantasy land. In his last three games, he's averaged more than 20 fantasy points including eight touchdown passes. I like Winston in a home matchup against the Bears, who have allowed 22-plus points to quarterbacks in their last three roadies.
vs.
Eli Manning vs. Cincinnati Bengals
Manning has been difficult to predict all season long, so take this weekend's matchup against the Bengals with a grain of salt. Cincinnati's defense has been awful against quarterbacks, allowing an average of almost 20 fantasy points per game to the position this season. That makes Manning a very streamable asset for owners.
Sleepers:
Joe Flacco vs. Browns (TNF), Jay Cutler at Buccaneers
Sit 'Em
vs.
Sit of the Week - Colin Kaepernick vs. Arizona Cardinals
I predicted that Kaepernick would be a top-10 fantasy quarterback last week, and he delivered with over an impressive 22 points. That was against the Saints, however. Now the mobile Kaepernick faces the Cardinals, who are coming off a bye week and have allowed the second-fewest fantasy points (12.3 PPG) to opposing quarterbacks.
vs.
Andy Dalton vs. New York Giants
Dalton has been a solid option for fantasy fans, scoring 19-plus fantasy points in each of his last four games. Keep in mind though, that he next faces a Giants defense that has allowed an average of just 13.2 fantasy points per game to quarterbacks. Furthermore, Dalton has been far less than reliable in front of national audiences.
vs.
Blake Bortles vs. Houston Texans
I blew the call to sit Bortles last week (he scored 21.5 points), but I will stick to the numbers and warn fantasy fans against him once again. That's due to a matchup against the Texans, who have allowed just six touchdown passes and an average of 13 fantasy points per game to quarterbacks this season. Beware Bortles this weekend.
vs.
Kirk Cousins vs. Minnesota Vikings
Cousins had a nice three-game stretch before Washington's bye, averaging a solid 21 fantasy points per contest. Still, it's hard to advise owners to start him ahead of a tough home matchup against the Vikings. Their defense has surrendered a mere eight touchdowns and the third-fewest fantasy points (12.5 PPG) to signal-callers.
vs.
Ryan Tannehill vs. San Diego Chargers
Tannehill burned a lot of fantasy fans who streamed him last week based on a nice matchup against the Jets. Now he'll travel to San Diego to face the Chargers, who have allowed an average of more than 17 fantasy points per game to quarterbacks. On the flip side, Tannehill hasn't hit that fantasy total in each of his last five starts.
Busts:
Russell Wilson at Patriots, Sam Bradford at Redskins
Start 'Em, Sit 'Em Week 10: Running backs.
Start 'Em
vs.
Start of the Week - Jay Ajayi vs. San Diego Chargers
Ajayi has become a fantasy star, scoring a combined 79.3 points (529 rush yards) in his last three contests. He should keep rolling this week in San Diego, as the Chargers allowed 25.9 fantasy points to Tennessee's runners a week ago. Miami has also seen it's offensive line thrive in recent weeks, so Ajayi makes for a solid choice.
vs.
Devontae Booker vs. New Orleans Saints
Booker was a bust as last week's top start, scoring just three fantasy points despite a great matchup in Oakland. I will keep the faith, however, as Booker has another tremendous matchup in New Orleans ahead. The Saints, who allowed 18.2 points to DuJuan Harris in Week 9, have allowed over 25 points a game to the position in 2016.
vs.
Jordan Howard vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Bears coach John Fox hates our fantasy teams, so take this Howard start with that in mind. The rookie did dominate the backfield touches and score 26.2 fantasy points against the Vikings before the bye, so he's now on the radar as at least a viable No. 2 runner. Jordan also has a great matchup against a bad Tampa Bay run defense.
vs.
Jonathan Stewart vs. Kansas City Chiefs
You might think that a game against the Chiefs isn't favorable, but it's not as bad as you think. Kansas City has surrendered 840 rushing yards to backs this season, which ranks as the 10th-most in the league. Furthermore, their defense has allowed a touchdown to a runner in three straight games and four of their last five overall.
vs.
Terrance West vs. Cleveland Browns
West was a total bust last week, scoring a mere 2.7 fantasy points in a win over the Steelers. Still, he led the Ravens backfield in touches (16) and snaps (28) ahead of rookie Kenneth Dixon. I'd stick with him as a potential flex starter against the Browns, who have surrendered the second-most fantasy points to runners (25.4 PPG) in 2016.
Sleepers:
Darren Sproles vs. Falcons, Tim Hightower vs. Broncos
Sit' Em
vs.
Sit of the Week - Todd Gurley vs. New York Jets
Gurley, listed as a sit 'em last week, posted 7.4 points in a loss to the Carolina. Now he travels to the Big Apple, where he'll face a Jets defense that's surrendered an average of 45.6 rushing yards per game to backs at home. While I do think their defense can be had, the Rams don't have an offensive line to help Gurley succeed.
vs.
Isaiah Crowell vs. Baltimore Ravens
After a hot start, Crowell has seen his numbers turn inconsistent. In fact, he's scored fewer than seven fantasy points in three of his last five games. This week he faces the Ravens, who he ripped for 20.8 fantasy points in Week 2. Still, Baltimore has allowed the fewest fantasy points to runners (13 PPG), so temper expectations.
vs.
Christine Michael vs. New England Patriots
"The Awakening" appears to be going into a statistical hibernation. Over the last two weeks, Michael has seen just 16 combined touches including a mere five in a Monday night win over the Bills. With C.J. Prosise seeing more snaps out of the backfield and a matchup against the Patriots up next, Michael is a real risk for all owners.
vs.
Matt Jones vs. Minnesota Vikings
Jones appears to have lost his starting role to Rob Kelley, as Redskins coach Jay Gruden said Jones will have to "earn his way back." If that weren't enough to keep him on your bench, then consider this week's matchup against a Vikings defense that has allowed an average of 15.5 fantasy points per game to opposing running backs.
vs.
Ryan Mathews vs. Atlanta Falcons
This weekend's matchup against the Falcons is great on paper, but I still can't get behind Mathews as a fantasy starter. He's become 100 percent dependant on touchdowns, and even then he's not giving you more than seven or eight points at best. Owners would be wise to lean on veteran Darren Sproles as a RB2 or flex ... not Mathews.
Busts:
DuJuan Harris at Cardinals, Rashad Jennings vs. Bengals (MNF)
Start 'Em
vs.
Start of the Week - Jay Ajayi vs. San Diego Chargers
Ajayi has become a fantasy star, scoring a combined 79.3 points (529 rush yards) in his last three contests. He should keep rolling this week in San Diego, as the Chargers allowed 25.9 fantasy points to Tennessee's runners a week ago. Miami has also seen it's offensive line thrive in recent weeks, so Ajayi makes for a solid choice.
vs.
Devontae Booker vs. New Orleans Saints
Booker was a bust as last week's top start, scoring just three fantasy points despite a great matchup in Oakland. I will keep the faith, however, as Booker has another tremendous matchup in New Orleans ahead. The Saints, who allowed 18.2 points to DuJuan Harris in Week 9, have allowed over 25 points a game to the position in 2016.
vs.
Jordan Howard vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Bears coach John Fox hates our fantasy teams, so take this Howard start with that in mind. The rookie did dominate the backfield touches and score 26.2 fantasy points against the Vikings before the bye, so he's now on the radar as at least a viable No. 2 runner. Jordan also has a great matchup against a bad Tampa Bay run defense.
vs.
Jonathan Stewart vs. Kansas City Chiefs
You might think that a game against the Chiefs isn't favorable, but it's not as bad as you think. Kansas City has surrendered 840 rushing yards to backs this season, which ranks as the 10th-most in the league. Furthermore, their defense has allowed a touchdown to a runner in three straight games and four of their last five overall.
vs.
Terrance West vs. Cleveland Browns
West was a total bust last week, scoring a mere 2.7 fantasy points in a win over the Steelers. Still, he led the Ravens backfield in touches (16) and snaps (28) ahead of rookie Kenneth Dixon. I'd stick with him as a potential flex starter against the Browns, who have surrendered the second-most fantasy points to runners (25.4 PPG) in 2016.
Sleepers:
Darren Sproles vs. Falcons, Tim Hightower vs. Broncos
Sit' Em
vs.
Sit of the Week - Todd Gurley vs. New York Jets
Gurley, listed as a sit 'em last week, posted 7.4 points in a loss to the Carolina. Now he travels to the Big Apple, where he'll face a Jets defense that's surrendered an average of 45.6 rushing yards per game to backs at home. While I do think their defense can be had, the Rams don't have an offensive line to help Gurley succeed.
vs.
Isaiah Crowell vs. Baltimore Ravens
After a hot start, Crowell has seen his numbers turn inconsistent. In fact, he's scored fewer than seven fantasy points in three of his last five games. This week he faces the Ravens, who he ripped for 20.8 fantasy points in Week 2. Still, Baltimore has allowed the fewest fantasy points to runners (13 PPG), so temper expectations.
vs.
Christine Michael vs. New England Patriots
"The Awakening" appears to be going into a statistical hibernation. Over the last two weeks, Michael has seen just 16 combined touches including a mere five in a Monday night win over the Bills. With C.J. Prosise seeing more snaps out of the backfield and a matchup against the Patriots up next, Michael is a real risk for all owners.
vs.
Matt Jones vs. Minnesota Vikings
Jones appears to have lost his starting role to Rob Kelley, as Redskins coach Jay Gruden said Jones will have to "earn his way back." If that weren't enough to keep him on your bench, then consider this week's matchup against a Vikings defense that has allowed an average of 15.5 fantasy points per game to opposing running backs.
vs.
Ryan Mathews vs. Atlanta Falcons
This weekend's matchup against the Falcons is great on paper, but I still can't get behind Mathews as a fantasy starter. He's become 100 percent dependant on touchdowns, and even then he's not giving you more than seven or eight points at best. Owners would be wise to lean on veteran Darren Sproles as a RB2 or flex ... not Mathews.
Busts:
DuJuan Harris at Cardinals, Rashad Jennings vs. Bengals (MNF)
Start 'Em, Sit 'Em Week 10: Tight ends.
Start 'Em
vs.
Start of the Week - Antonio Gates vs. Miami Dolphins
This week's matchup against the Dolphins might not look good based on fantasy points allowed totals, but Miami is vulnerable to tight ends nonetheless. In fact, this defense has been taken to town by the likes of Martellus Bennett, Gary Barnidge and Delanie Walker. Gates, the most targeted tight end since Week 7, is a solid start.
vs.
Kyle Rudolph vs. Washington Redskins
Rudolph caught one pass in last week's loss to the Lions, but it was for a touchdown that saved what would have otherwise been a dreadful stat line. Based on his high target share (he's tied for sixth at the position since Week 7), I'd keep him active against a Redskins team that allowed 16.2 points to Tyler Eifert before their bye.
vs.
Zach Miller vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Miller had disappeared off the fantasy radar for several weeks before the return of Jay Cutler, who led him to seven catches and 88 yards in a Week 8 win over Minnesota. Next on the schedule is a road date with the Buccaneers, who surrendered a pair of touchdown catches and almost 20 points to Atlanta's tight ends just a week ago.
vs.
Dennis Pitta vs. Cleveland Browns
Fantasy owners in PPR leagues should consider Pitta this week when the Ravens host the Browns on Thursday Night Football. The last time these two teams squared off, Pitta posted 102 yards in a 25-20 win. Cleveland has also been dreadful against tight ends, allowing eight scores and the most fantasy points to the position (13.4 PPG).
vs.
Zach Ertz vs. Atlanta Falcons
Ertz had been a dud for fantasy fans, at least until he posted 97 yards in last week's loss to the Giants. Now that he's back in the good graces of fantasy fans, Ertz is a viable streamer against Atlanta. Their defense has surrendered six touchdowns and an average of 10.4 points per game to tight ends. That's the fifth-most in the NFL.
Sleepers:
Cameron Brate vs. Bears, Lance Kendricks at Jets
Sit 'Em
vs.
Sit of the Week - Julius Thomas vs. Houston Texans
Thomas, listed as a sit 'em last week, recorded a mere 2.1 fantasy points in a loss to the Chiefs. The touchdown-dependant tight end will face another uphill battle in this week's matchup against the Texans, who have surrendered just one touchdown and the fourth-fewest fantasy points (4.4 PPG) to the position so far this season.
vs.
Coby Fleener vs. Denver Broncos
Fleener bombed as a fantasy streamer last week, as he posted a modest 4.2 points despite playing in what was a shootout in San Francisco. He should return to fantasy benches this week against the Broncos, who have surrendered just two touchdowns and an average of 6.5 points per game to opposing tight ends after nine weekends.
vs.
Gary Barnidge vs. Baltimore Ravens
Barnidge hasn't been able to reclaim the elite status he earned last season, as he's now failed to find the end zone even once (he scored nine times in 2015). He's a difficult sell ahead of a Thursday night contest in Baltimore, as the Ravens defense has not allowed a single touchdown reception to the opposition's tight ends this season.
vs.
C.J. Fiedorowicz vs. Jacksonville Jaguars
Fiedorowicz has been a solid fantasy streamer when the matchup is favorable, but that's not the case this week when the Texans travel to Duval County to face the Jaguars. Their defense has been tough on tight ends, allowing just one touchdown catch and an average of fewer than five fantasy points a game to the position this season.
vs.
Austin Hooper vs. Philadelphia Eagles
Much like Bartholomew Marion Quint in the original Jaws, owners were screaming the name Hooper after he scored a touchdown during a win over the Buccaneers. Unfortunately, his fantasy value could suffer the same fate as Quint did in the movie against an Eagles defense that's surrendered the third-fewest points to tight ends.
Busts:
Martellus Bennett vs. Seahawks, Vance McDonald at Cardinals
Start 'Em
vs.
Start of the Week - Antonio Gates vs. Miami Dolphins
This week's matchup against the Dolphins might not look good based on fantasy points allowed totals, but Miami is vulnerable to tight ends nonetheless. In fact, this defense has been taken to town by the likes of Martellus Bennett, Gary Barnidge and Delanie Walker. Gates, the most targeted tight end since Week 7, is a solid start.
vs.
Kyle Rudolph vs. Washington Redskins
Rudolph caught one pass in last week's loss to the Lions, but it was for a touchdown that saved what would have otherwise been a dreadful stat line. Based on his high target share (he's tied for sixth at the position since Week 7), I'd keep him active against a Redskins team that allowed 16.2 points to Tyler Eifert before their bye.
vs.
Zach Miller vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Miller had disappeared off the fantasy radar for several weeks before the return of Jay Cutler, who led him to seven catches and 88 yards in a Week 8 win over Minnesota. Next on the schedule is a road date with the Buccaneers, who surrendered a pair of touchdown catches and almost 20 points to Atlanta's tight ends just a week ago.
vs.
Dennis Pitta vs. Cleveland Browns
Fantasy owners in PPR leagues should consider Pitta this week when the Ravens host the Browns on Thursday Night Football. The last time these two teams squared off, Pitta posted 102 yards in a 25-20 win. Cleveland has also been dreadful against tight ends, allowing eight scores and the most fantasy points to the position (13.4 PPG).
vs.
Zach Ertz vs. Atlanta Falcons
Ertz had been a dud for fantasy fans, at least until he posted 97 yards in last week's loss to the Giants. Now that he's back in the good graces of fantasy fans, Ertz is a viable streamer against Atlanta. Their defense has surrendered six touchdowns and an average of 10.4 points per game to tight ends. That's the fifth-most in the NFL.
Sleepers:
Cameron Brate vs. Bears, Lance Kendricks at Jets
Sit 'Em
vs.
Sit of the Week - Julius Thomas vs. Houston Texans
Thomas, listed as a sit 'em last week, recorded a mere 2.1 fantasy points in a loss to the Chiefs. The touchdown-dependant tight end will face another uphill battle in this week's matchup against the Texans, who have surrendered just one touchdown and the fourth-fewest fantasy points (4.4 PPG) to the position so far this season.
vs.
Coby Fleener vs. Denver Broncos
Fleener bombed as a fantasy streamer last week, as he posted a modest 4.2 points despite playing in what was a shootout in San Francisco. He should return to fantasy benches this week against the Broncos, who have surrendered just two touchdowns and an average of 6.5 points per game to opposing tight ends after nine weekends.
vs.
Gary Barnidge vs. Baltimore Ravens
Barnidge hasn't been able to reclaim the elite status he earned last season, as he's now failed to find the end zone even once (he scored nine times in 2015). He's a difficult sell ahead of a Thursday night contest in Baltimore, as the Ravens defense has not allowed a single touchdown reception to the opposition's tight ends this season.
vs.
C.J. Fiedorowicz vs. Jacksonville Jaguars
Fiedorowicz has been a solid fantasy streamer when the matchup is favorable, but that's not the case this week when the Texans travel to Duval County to face the Jaguars. Their defense has been tough on tight ends, allowing just one touchdown catch and an average of fewer than five fantasy points a game to the position this season.
vs.
Austin Hooper vs. Philadelphia Eagles
Much like Bartholomew Marion Quint in the original Jaws, owners were screaming the name Hooper after he scored a touchdown during a win over the Buccaneers. Unfortunately, his fantasy value could suffer the same fate as Quint did in the movie against an Eagles defense that's surrendered the third-fewest points to tight ends.
Busts:
Martellus Bennett vs. Seahawks, Vance McDonald at Cardinals
Start 'Em, Sit 'Em Week 10: Defense.
Start 'Em
vs.
Start of the Week - Arizona Cardinals vs. San Francisco 49ers
The Cardinals are fresh off a bye and playing at home against Colin Kaepernick and a Niners offense that will turn the ball over. That's obvious in the fact that over the last four weeks, opposing defenses have averaged the sixth-most points (8.7 PPG) against them. Arizona should finish with a very solid line for owners this week.
vs.
Los Angeles Rams vs. New York Jets
The Rams produced nine fantasy points against the Panthers a week ago, and I like their chances of putting up strong totals once against the Jets. The Men in Green have been a virtual cornucopia of fantasy points for opposing defenses, as teams have averaged 11.3 points a game against them. That's most in the league after nine weeks.
vs.
Kansas City Chiefs vs. Carolina Panthers
One of the hottest fantasy defenses in the entire league, the Chiefs have scored 10 or more fantasy points in each of their last four games including 11 in their last three. I'd continue to roll with them this week against Cam Newton and the Panthers, who have been a highly favorable opponent for defenses (8.9 FPPG) this season.
vs.
Green Bay Packers vs. Tennessee Titans
While the Packers have been one of the least consistent defenses in fantasy land this season, an upcoming matchup against the Titans is still hard to ignore. Marcus Mariota might be hot in terms of fantasy production but he's still prone to a few turnovers each week. Consider Green Bay a viable streamer this weekend in most leagues.
Sleepers:
Ravens defense vs. Browns (TNF), Jets defense vs. Rams
Sit 'Em
vs.
Sit of the Week - Seattle Seahawks vs. New England Patriots
The Seahawks defense has scored at least seven fantasy points in each of its last five games, so it's tough to bench them in most leagues. Keep in mind, however, that a road matchup against Tom Brady and the Patriots is enough to bench this defense. Defenses have averaged just four fantasy points against New England.
vs.
Carolina Panthers vs. Kansas City Chiefs
The Panthers have been hot in recent weeks, scoring a combined 19 fantasy points in their last two games. So while fantasy owners might want to ride the hot hand, this week's matchup against the Chiefs is not favorable. In fact, defenses that have faced them this season have averaged just 5.1 fantasy points a game. Temper expectations.
vs.
New England Patriots vs. Seattle Seahawks
New England has some question marks on the defensive side of the football, which has been obvious in its recent lack of fantasy production (10 combined points in their last three games). Next on the schedule is a date with the Seahawks, who have not been a favorable opponent for opposing defenses (5.2 FPPG) this season.
vs.
Pittsburgh Steelers vs. Dallas Cowboys
The Steelers defense hasn't been very valuable in fantasy circles this season, scoring fewer than six points in each of its last three contests. That trend will continue versus Dak Prescott, Ezekiel Elliott and a Cowboys team that defenses have rarely produced high fantasy points against. Look elsewhere for a potential streamer.
Busts:
Eagles defense vs. Falcons, Giants defense vs. Bengals (MNF)
Start 'Em
vs.
Start of the Week - Arizona Cardinals vs. San Francisco 49ers
The Cardinals are fresh off a bye and playing at home against Colin Kaepernick and a Niners offense that will turn the ball over. That's obvious in the fact that over the last four weeks, opposing defenses have averaged the sixth-most points (8.7 PPG) against them. Arizona should finish with a very solid line for owners this week.
vs.
Los Angeles Rams vs. New York Jets
The Rams produced nine fantasy points against the Panthers a week ago, and I like their chances of putting up strong totals once against the Jets. The Men in Green have been a virtual cornucopia of fantasy points for opposing defenses, as teams have averaged 11.3 points a game against them. That's most in the league after nine weeks.
vs.
Kansas City Chiefs vs. Carolina Panthers
One of the hottest fantasy defenses in the entire league, the Chiefs have scored 10 or more fantasy points in each of their last four games including 11 in their last three. I'd continue to roll with them this week against Cam Newton and the Panthers, who have been a highly favorable opponent for defenses (8.9 FPPG) this season.
vs.
Green Bay Packers vs. Tennessee Titans
While the Packers have been one of the least consistent defenses in fantasy land this season, an upcoming matchup against the Titans is still hard to ignore. Marcus Mariota might be hot in terms of fantasy production but he's still prone to a few turnovers each week. Consider Green Bay a viable streamer this weekend in most leagues.
Sleepers:
Ravens defense vs. Browns (TNF), Jets defense vs. Rams
Sit 'Em
vs.
Sit of the Week - Seattle Seahawks vs. New England Patriots
The Seahawks defense has scored at least seven fantasy points in each of its last five games, so it's tough to bench them in most leagues. Keep in mind, however, that a road matchup against Tom Brady and the Patriots is enough to bench this defense. Defenses have averaged just four fantasy points against New England.
vs.
Carolina Panthers vs. Kansas City Chiefs
The Panthers have been hot in recent weeks, scoring a combined 19 fantasy points in their last two games. So while fantasy owners might want to ride the hot hand, this week's matchup against the Chiefs is not favorable. In fact, defenses that have faced them this season have averaged just 5.1 fantasy points a game. Temper expectations.
vs.
New England Patriots vs. Seattle Seahawks
New England has some question marks on the defensive side of the football, which has been obvious in its recent lack of fantasy production (10 combined points in their last three games). Next on the schedule is a date with the Seahawks, who have not been a favorable opponent for opposing defenses (5.2 FPPG) this season.
vs.
Pittsburgh Steelers vs. Dallas Cowboys
The Steelers defense hasn't been very valuable in fantasy circles this season, scoring fewer than six points in each of its last three contests. That trend will continue versus Dak Prescott, Ezekiel Elliott and a Cowboys team that defenses have rarely produced high fantasy points against. Look elsewhere for a potential streamer.
Busts:
Eagles defense vs. Falcons, Giants defense vs. Bengals (MNF)
Start 'Em, Sit 'Em Week 10: Kickers.
Start 'Em
vs.
Start of the Week - Mason Crosby vs. Tennessee Titans
Crosby has been solid in recent weeks, scoring eight or more fantasy points five of his last six games. That includes three contests with double-digit totals. I like his hot streak to continue in a road matchup against the Titans, who have allowed an average of just fewer than nine fantasy points per game to opposing kickers in 2016.
vs.
Chandler Catanzaro vs. San Francisco 49ers
Catanzaro has not been a reliable option for owners this season. In fact, he ranks 29th in points among kickers after the first nine weeks. Here's the "kicker," however ... Catanzaro faces a Niners defense that has surrendered the second-most fantasy points (10 PPG) to the position over the last four weeks. Cat is a viable streamer.
vs.
Brandon McManus vs. New Orleans Saints
McManus ranks seventh in fantasy points among kickers this season, scoring nine or more fantasy points in five of his last six games including each of his last three. I'd keep him active for this week's matchup against the Saints, who have surrendered an average of just fewer than nine fantasy points per game to kickers this season.
vs.
Josh Lambo vs. Miami Dolphins
Lambo quietly ranks third in fantasy points among all kickers this season, but he's still a free agent in over 65 percent of leagues on NFL.com. I'd pick him up and start him against the Dolphins, who have surrendered an average of 11 fantasy points per contest to kickers over the last two weeks. Grab him now before it's too late.
Sleepers:
Nick Novak at Jaguars, Mike Nugent at Giants (MNF)
Sit 'Em
vs.
Sit of the Week - Graham Gano vs. Kansas City Chiefs
Gano has been up and down all season long, making it tough to trust him as a regular starter in fantasy leagues. That's the case this week against the Chiefs, who have given up an average of just 5.1 fantasy points per game to opposing kickers this season. Another stinker this weekend could land Gano on the fantasy football waiver wire.
vs.
Blair Walsh vs. Washington Redskins
Walsh appears to be squarely on the hot seat in Minnesota, as he's struggled to convert field goals (and sometimes even extra points) on a consistent basis. In fact, he's failed to score more than four fantasy points in each of his last three contests. Washington has surrendered the seventh-fewest fantasy points over the last four weeks, too.
vs.
Nick Folk vs. Los Angeles Rams
Folk recorded a solid 11 fantasy points in last week's loss to the Dolphins, but owners shouldn't chase the points ahead of an upcoming matchup against the Rams. Los Angeles has been a brutal matchup for opposing kickers, as the position has averaged a mere 5.1 points per game against them. Don't expect Folk to be a hero.
vs.
Phil Dawson vs. Arizona Cardinals
Dawson posted 11 fantasy points in last week's loss to the Saints, and he's now scored 10 or more points in two of his last three games. Still, an upcoming matchup against the Cardinals makes him little more than waiver-wire fodder. Arizona is tough on kickers, which was evident in his three-point stinker against them in Week 5.
Busts:
Steven Hauschka at Patriots, Dustin Hopkins vs. Vikings
Start 'Em
vs.
Start of the Week - Mason Crosby vs. Tennessee Titans
Crosby has been solid in recent weeks, scoring eight or more fantasy points five of his last six games. That includes three contests with double-digit totals. I like his hot streak to continue in a road matchup against the Titans, who have allowed an average of just fewer than nine fantasy points per game to opposing kickers in 2016.
vs.
Chandler Catanzaro vs. San Francisco 49ers
Catanzaro has not been a reliable option for owners this season. In fact, he ranks 29th in points among kickers after the first nine weeks. Here's the "kicker," however ... Catanzaro faces a Niners defense that has surrendered the second-most fantasy points (10 PPG) to the position over the last four weeks. Cat is a viable streamer.
vs.
Brandon McManus vs. New Orleans Saints
McManus ranks seventh in fantasy points among kickers this season, scoring nine or more fantasy points in five of his last six games including each of his last three. I'd keep him active for this week's matchup against the Saints, who have surrendered an average of just fewer than nine fantasy points per game to kickers this season.
vs.
Josh Lambo vs. Miami Dolphins
Lambo quietly ranks third in fantasy points among all kickers this season, but he's still a free agent in over 65 percent of leagues on NFL.com. I'd pick him up and start him against the Dolphins, who have surrendered an average of 11 fantasy points per contest to kickers over the last two weeks. Grab him now before it's too late.
Sleepers:
Nick Novak at Jaguars, Mike Nugent at Giants (MNF)
Sit 'Em
vs.
Sit of the Week - Graham Gano vs. Kansas City Chiefs
Gano has been up and down all season long, making it tough to trust him as a regular starter in fantasy leagues. That's the case this week against the Chiefs, who have given up an average of just 5.1 fantasy points per game to opposing kickers this season. Another stinker this weekend could land Gano on the fantasy football waiver wire.
vs.
Blair Walsh vs. Washington Redskins
Walsh appears to be squarely on the hot seat in Minnesota, as he's struggled to convert field goals (and sometimes even extra points) on a consistent basis. In fact, he's failed to score more than four fantasy points in each of his last three contests. Washington has surrendered the seventh-fewest fantasy points over the last four weeks, too.
vs.
Nick Folk vs. Los Angeles Rams
Folk recorded a solid 11 fantasy points in last week's loss to the Dolphins, but owners shouldn't chase the points ahead of an upcoming matchup against the Rams. Los Angeles has been a brutal matchup for opposing kickers, as the position has averaged a mere 5.1 points per game against them. Don't expect Folk to be a hero.
vs.
Phil Dawson vs. Arizona Cardinals
Dawson posted 11 fantasy points in last week's loss to the Saints, and he's now scored 10 or more points in two of his last three games. Still, an upcoming matchup against the Cardinals makes him little more than waiver-wire fodder. Arizona is tough on kickers, which was evident in his three-point stinker against them in Week 5.
Busts:
Steven Hauschka at Patriots, Dustin Hopkins vs. Vikings
