The Stock Exchange

By The Fantasy Trader, NFL Draft Bible/Fantasy Football Insider

We were on fire last week hitting in a big way with Kolby Smith and Deion Branch. In contrast, I just received my apology e-cards from Vince Young and Cedric Benson. This tends to be the last week of the fantasy regular season for most leagues so I understand the importance of getting a win. Here are the hot stocks being discussed this week and what you should do with them.

RB Adrian Peterson (“Associated Press” Peterson) – will get the start at running back for the Bears this week against the Giants. With Cedric Benson out for the season, it is his job to keep. Devin Hester has made it look like the Bears are scoring, but their offense is struggling. I do not like this start against a Giants defense that ranks 8th against the run. Peterson is only a last resort start. Watch Favre versus Romo on Thursday and then watch Eli vs. Rex.

RB Adrian Peterson (“Absolutely Phenomenal” Peterson) – will split carries this week against the Lions. I am an AP owner and I am starting him this week. My rationale is that the worst case scenario is: I bench him and he breaks two long touchdown runs. I could not live with that. I can live with a mediocre performance as long as he is healthy. Obviously do not start both, but Chester Taylor will also get enough carries to validate a fantasy start this week.

QB Jon Kitna – is no Eli Manning. Kitna is a must start this week against the worst pass defense in the NFL. Manning was in early holiday spirits when he handed the Vikings’ secondary 3 interceptions returned for touchdowns last week. The Lions have lost three in a row and I expect Mike Martz to give into his impulse and throw like crazy.

Denver Broncos running back- is more confusing than ever. We now have three players in the mix--Travis Henry, Selvin Young and Andre Hall. Whoever starts this week should go off against the Raiders and is a must start. Right now my money is on Young with Henry a close second. Owners will have to wait until the inactive list comes out on Sunday to make a decision. The Raiders are dead last against the run.

WR Marvin Harrison- should not be in your lineup even if he plays. The fact that he has not played in weeks tells you how serious the injury is. Anthony Gonzalez is Peyton Manning's new go-to guy after Wayne. Gonzalez had 6 catches for 105 yards on Thanksgiving.

RB Laurence Maroney- has put up tight end fantasy points this year. His game-winning touchdown last week has owners thinking he should start again. Maroney should not be started because the Patriots simply do not and will not run the football. This fantasy first rounder is averaging less than 10 carries a game and he is their workhorse.

DE-Washington Redskins- have suffered a great loss. The death of Sean Taylor will be the story on Sunday. He will be on his teammates’ minds and in their hearts before, during and after the game.