WEEK EIGHT FANTASY PREVIEW

Oakland @ Tennessee
I still can’t really believe that Kerry Collins is still in the NFL, but he actually put up nice numbers last week, despite not throwing a touchdown. It looks like Vince Young will be back this week, but that doesn’t really change much for Tennessee receivers, who haven’t been great or reliable all year. For Oakland, get Ronald Curry in there: you can’t run on them, so the Raiders are going to have to pass. It was interesting to see Dominic Rhodes get 9 carries and perform similarly to LaMont Jordan, but save that nugget for after the Titans.

Detroit @ Chicago
Kevin Jones has been a tease in that offense for years, and he’s doing it again. Since I am a sucker for talented running backs in explosive offenses, I’ll take the bait (sigh…). Jones scored again last week, and received the bulk of the carries. Mike Martz is never gonna be a pounder, but he will get the ball to the backs in the passing game (great for PPR leaguers), and Jones has seen decent success lately. Meanwhile, Chicago continues to allow opposing runners to beat them.

Before I talk about Chicago, I need to introduce you all to one of my favorite lame fantasy players: Muhsin Muhammad. Muhsin is 34, slow, on a weird lame offense, and has been generally disrespected in the fantasy world the last few years. Well, I have been in some pretty dire WR situations on my teams the last few years (especially this year…some readers are perhaps laughing at this understatement as they read this), and am always looking for guys like this to get me through. Muhammad also happens to be a large man for a receiver, and he’s crafty, especially in the end zone. Muhsin has caught a TD in 3 of the 4 games since Brian Griese has taken the job from Sexy Rexy, and has another excellent matchup this week. Get him in there, and join me in praising his fantasy contributions.

Philadelphia @ Minnesota
So it looks like the only thing that can stop the Viking running game is the Viking passing game (and Dallas I guess…but you get my meaning). I went into this season looking for a neato prediction for a team that could come out of nowhere, and mine was the Vikings. I thought, look, they had a ridiculous run defense last season, an effective runner (Taylor), and a stud rookie runner (Peterson), and all the talking heads we love so much can’t ever stop talking about how running and stopping the run are the keys to success in the National Football League (does anyone else think it’s a bit smug the way they always call it the National Football League, as though it were base to abbreviate such a hallowed organization?). I thought if there could be a way that Tarvaris Jackson was any better than terrible that they had a shot to make some noise. Especially in that division. I mean, he was a second round pick. Well, guess what happened…

Anyway, in regards to this game, Philly has had a good record vs. the run, but I think they’re overrated. They’ve faced GB (don’t even try to run), Washington (can’t score much against anyone but Detroit), Detroit (don’t like to run, and were down by a klabillion points early), the Giants (without the punishing and scary Brandon Jacobs), the Jets (who ran for over 100), and Chicago (Cedric Benson doesn’t like football). So, yeah, overrated. Start Peterson, and give Taylor a look if you need him: he’s been quietly effective with the touches he’s gotten since AP exploded, and caught some passes last week too.

Cleveland @ St. Louis
Steven Jackson’s back! Don’t hesitate starting him here. This is one of those games where almost anyone you have has a chance to be productive. Look for Bulger to bounce back and for Isaac Bruce to finally do something. Start Jamal Lewis, or his replacement, Jason Wright, depending on injury status. Joe Jurevicius also has a great matchup.

Pittsburgh @ Cincinnati
Kenny Watson. I watch my Jets play the Bengals, expect Chad and Houshmandzadeh to run all over the place, but why use awesome players to win when you can use obscure ones that mess up the fantasy world? Sit the Bengal runners this week against Pitt, though. I love Santonio Holmes and Hines Ward this week, for obvious Bengal-defense-related reasons.

Indianapolis @ Carolina
Kenton Keith stole Joseph Addai’s show on Monday Night, which should make sense to us based on Indy’s history of using two running backs. He looked good too. Keith is a decent play this week against Carolina given his success against that stout Jacksonville D last week. I hate to rain on Vinny Testaverde’s parade here, but did anyone else notice that on his touchdown pass to Steve Smith that the cornerback sorta, like, stopped playing football while the ball was in the air, and that Smith walked into the endzone? Vinny, god bless him, came back “off his couch”, “from mowing his lawn”, “from watching the games last Sunday”, etc., in 2005 for the Jets and, um, wasn’t good. I’m just not buying him yet. But, from the numbers this year, fantasy players want him in there because David Carr looks worse.

New York Giants @ Miami
I was watching the games last week with a couple of friends, one of whom is (was) a Ronnie Brown owner. I had just advised him on keeping Brown going forward despite the Dolphins’ tough schedule coming up. He had always planned on selling Brown before the Patriots game, assuming he would play well against the bad teams earlier on the schedule and would return to his normal Ronnie Brown form soon enough. Well, Ronnie Brown went on to lead running backs in points, and I told him I thought he had been far too dominant and involved in the offense for his production to dip too much. Ronnie Brown Owner decided to keep him, and as we were watching he was thanking me for my wisdom, as Brown was having another good day. About a minute later, Brown tore his ACL on a broken turnover play. Ouch. The good news for some of us is Jesse Chatman didn’t look too bad, and he has a decent matchup this week. My Ronnie Brown Owner friend wasn’t so lucky as to be able to claim Chatman. That privilege went to the guy in our league who irritates everyone with his outlandish trade demands. Ugh.

Meanwhile, in London (London?), the Giants are growing on me. I maintain they haven’t really beaten anyone good, but the Dolphins certainly aren’t good, so look for more of the same from your G-Men. Miami can’t stop anything. Jacobs has looked the best in the backfield, and should continue to get most carries.

Buffalo @ New York Jets
These two very stoppable forces and moveable objects meet again in their second divisional showdown. Chad Pennington, everyone’s favorite noodly-armed pigskin tosser, will be starting again. Mangini seems to think he is doing a lot of good things amidst the bad things, and he’s probably right. The Jets are just not good. But, Laveranues Coles, Jerricho Cotchery and Chris Baker all have good matchups here. So do Thomas Jones and little Leon Washington. So do Lee Evans and Roscoe Parrish. Yeah, these defenses are bad…

Houston @ San Diego
It’ll be interesting to see how the Chargers handle having an actual wide receiver in their offense. The only wide receiver who has caught over 60 passes for them since David Boston in 2003 was old man Keenan McCardell, and he was old (David Boston!) Chambers is definitely a start here, and we’ll see what happens. He should provide the deep threat to open up Tomlinson and Gates even more, but Chambers is a bit of a flake who has the drops and doesn’t run clean routes consistently. The Chargers have a very beatable secondary, so my boy Kevin Walter, who I have hated on in the past but seems to continue to get looks and catches, as well as his cohort Andre Davis, are good starts this week. I’d consider sitting Ahman Green against them, though. Also, keep in mind that this game has a chance of being postponed due to the wildfires near San Diego, so keep an eye on how your league deals with this.

Jacksonville @ Tampa Bay
In one of the more pathetic displays of quarterback play in recent memory, Quinn Gray came in for David Garrard on Monday Night, and will be starting for the Jags for the next few weeks. Yeesh. The Jaguars really have no choice but to run the ball now, which elevates Fred Taylor’s and Maurice Jones-Drew’s stock. Since you were not starting any Jaguar receivers, continue to not start them (I mean, none of you were starting them, were you?). The Bucs’ Earnest Graham had himself a game with 92 rushing yards and 13 catches on the day that Michael Bennett came to town. I still think Graham is the better play going forward because he’ll get the goal line carries, but Bennett looked good. I’d only start Graham this week, though, and he isn’t a great play. Jeff Garcia, by the way, hasn’t thrown an interception yet this year. Just thought that was cool; don’t start him here.

New Orleans @ San Francisco
Devery Henderson finally caught a touchdown, but it was his only catch, and only target of the day. Fluke! I hate Devery. The interesting question is: who is the Saints’ second receiver behind Colston. It looked like David Patten again last week (I think my Lance Moore experiment is over…), but I just don’t trust Patten somehow: he was irrelevant for so long after leaving the Pats, and for him to just emerge as significant again out of nowhere smells funny to me. If you’re desperate for a receiver this week, Patten and Moore are decent reach plays since Nate Clements will be on Colston. It looks like Alex Smith will end the short-lived Trent Dilfer era in San Francisco this week, so start keeping an eye on their receiver situation again. I’m still sort of attached to Darrell Jackson despite his lameness this year, but watch Ashley Lelie and Arnaz Battle also. If Jackson plays, he has a good matchup against the Saints. Battle saw most of the looks last week, and he’s also a solid play.

Washington @ New England
The Skins have a great defense, but who cares. Tom Brady is driven, and as long as Randy Moss can catch touchdowns in double coverage with his biceps (one of the sickest catches I have ever seen), he’s unstoppable. Laurence Maroney looked awful, and I’d stay away from him for a while: they seem content to just pass anyway, even when they’re up 50. I don’t like Washington’s offense this week. Portis had a great game last week, but this is not the Cardinals, and they’re going to be passing in their futile attempt to keep up with Tom WelMossworth. Santana Moss is having serious problems these days, and I’d stay away.

Green Bay @ Denver
This is an interesting matchup for Green Bay because Denver stops the pass but can’t stop the run. Do the Packers dare leave their fate in the hands of DeShawn Wynn and Vernand Morency? Start Wynn. Denver doesn’t have a great fantasy matchup here, so Brandon Marshall may have a tough time. Travis Henry has some uncertainty surrounding him this week, so keep an eye on whether or not he plays. Denver, as usual, has like 12 guys who could play (namely 3 guys named Selvin Young, Andre Hall, and Cecil Sapp), so if Henry is out it’s anybody’s guess who will emerge. The favorite is Young.

BUSTED BRUISED & BROKEN

David Kaye, Fantasy Football Insiders

AFC Injury Report
Miami Dolphins running back Ronnie Brown (knee) left Sunday’s blowout loss to the Patriots early with a torn ACL after attempting to tackle New England cornerback Randall Gay on a Cleo Lemon interception. He will be out for the remainder of the season and in his absence journeyman Jesse Chatman will be forced into the starting role. Chatman and Patrick Cobbs are now both adequate fantasy options on a week-to-week basis.

Quarterback Trent Green (concussion) has been placed on injured reserve and will miss the duration of the season. It’s still very questionable if Green will take another snap in his football career due to constant concussions.

Cleveland Browns running back Jamal Lewis (foot) is listed as questionable for this week’s matchup with the woeful St.Louis Rams. He’s hopeful that he can play Sunday after having nearly two weeks off to rest.

Houston Texans quarterback Matt Schaub (hip) is currently day-to-day after injuring his right hip in Sunday’s nail biting 38-36 loss to the Titans. While Schaub has an outstanding completion percentage, he has not thrown a touchdown since week four and his passer rating has dropped significantly.

Tennessee Titans quarterback Vince Young (right quad) missed Sunday’s game at Houston, but is expected to suit up this week against the 2-4 Raiders at home. Even though the electrifying playmaker is listed as day-to-day, head coach Jeff Fisher believes ‘’he’ll have a much better chance to play this coming week.’’

Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback David Garrard (sprained ankle) left Monday night’s game limping off the field after being sacked early in the second quarter. Monitor Garrard’s status throughout the week to see if he’s able to play Sunday at Tampa Bay.

Denver Broncos tight end Stephen Alexander (leg) was placed on injured reserve after sustaining a left leg injury. Alexander had not appeared in a game this season for the Broncos.

NFC Injury Report
Chicago Bears running back Cedric Benson (knee) is probable for this week’s game against Detroit.

Minnesota Vikings quarterback Tarvaris Jackson (broken finger) is currently wearing a splint on his right index finger and will have to wait until later in the week for the swelling to subside. Despite his poor performances every week, Jackson is still listed as the starter for Sunday’s game against the last place Eagles.

Atlanta Falcons quarterback Byron Leftwich (high ankle sprain) is expected to take the team’s bye week to fully recover and be prepared to start week nine against San
Francisco. The quarterback position for the Falcons is still very much in limbo even if Leftwich is healthy and there’s a serious possibility that Joey Harrington reclaims his starting spot.

San Francisco 49ers quarterback Alex Smith (separated shoulder) has been out of action for the past two weeks and is not expected to play in this week’s home game against the Saints.

All-Pro running back Frank Gore (ankle sprain) is uncertain if he’ll suit up for Sunday’s game after sustaining the injury during the first half of last week’s loss to the Giants.

MONDAY MORNING WAIVER WIRE HELP

Ralph Mancini, FFI Sr. Writer

SEARCHING THE SCRAP HEAP
SAGE ROSENFELS (QB-HOU)- The former Miami Dolphin stepped in for a battered Matt Schaub and turned an apparent blowout at the hands of the Tennessee Titans into a edge-of-your-seat thriller by throwing four touchdown passes in the fourth quarter. Rosenfels did a fantastic job of spreading the ball among his receivers throughout the game. The 29-year-old signal caller punctuated his performance by sensing pressure by defensive end Travis LaBoy and unleashing a 53-yard bomb to Andre’ Davis temporarily putting Houston ahead 38-36 before opposing kicker Rob Bironas hit a game winning field goal for the Titans. Rosenfels is a fine pick up if Schaub is forced to miss time.

JESSE CHATMAN (RB-MIA)- Subbing for Ronnie Brown who exited the game with a dinged-up knee, Chatman put up serious numbers in garbage time by gaining 73 yards on only seven carries, including a 7-yard score . The hard-charging 5’8” dynamo could fill in quite nicely next week against a Giants defense that gives up significant yardage on the ground.

KENNY WATSON (RB-CIN)- Watson led Cincinnati’s offensive charge by gaining 130 yards on the ground and scoring three touchdowns with his team’s season hanging in the balance. The former Nittany Lion also chipped in with three receptions for 27 yards in the Bengals 38-31 victory over the hapless New York Jets. Regardless of whether Rudi Johnson returns next week, Watson deserves to be on everyone’s fantasy roster as Cincinnati will certainly continue to provide him with touches in the coming weeks. The speedy fifth-year veteran has proven to be a very disciplined runner.

MUSHIN MUHAMMAD (WR-CHI)- The 34-year-old Muhammad is making a resurgence in Chicago by quietly turning into Brian Griese’s favorite receiver in recent weeks. In Sunday’s 19-16 win over Philadelphia, the big wide out not only caught the game-winning touchdown pass, but also recorded a 44-yard reception. Add Muhammad to your fantasy teams and start him next versus the Lions next week.

ARNAZ BATTLE (SF-WR)- On a team in total disarray, Battle is one of the few players showing any sort of promise. In San Francisco’s 33-15 drubbing at the hands of the New York Giants, the former Notre Dame quarterback had six catches for 57 yards, including a 17-yard touchdown grab. Though limited by his underwhelming quarterbacks, Battle has the athletic skills to gain yards after the catch and also do damage on the occasional running play. Battle should put up good numbers in next week’s game versus the New Orleans Saints.

BRANDON STOKLEY (WR-DEN)- The veteran slot receiver is now in Denver’s starting lineup and gives his team a sure-handed option in the passing game who knows how to get open. Expect the Broncos to look to him both deep and an underneath routes.

TONY SCHEFFLER (DEN-TE)- The Bronco is back from a broken foot and has good chemistry with his quarterback Jay Cutler, who’s suddenly short on receiving options with the absence of number one receiver Javon Walker. In 2006, Scheffler caught 11 of his 18 passes in his last four games with Cutler at the helm.

LEONARD POPE (TE-ARIZ)- Previously featured in ONES TO WATCH, Pope did an excellent job acting as Kurt Warner’s safety valve. At 6’ 8”, Pope presents a big target, who can run after the catch. In Arizona’s 22-19 loss to Washington, Pope had three receptions for 35 yards, including a one-yard touchdown catch from backup Tim Rattay in the fourth quarter. The return of wide out Anquan Boldin should open more room for the second-year professional.

ROB BIRONAS (K-TENN)- Bironas made history by setting the all-time record for kicking the most field goals in one game by hitting on eight of them in leading the Titans to victory. Blessed with a booming leg, Bironas kicked a 60-yard field goal last year versus the Colts, as well as a 52-yarder versus the Titans this Sunday.

ONES TO WATCH
CHRIS REDMAN (QB-ATL)- Well, it didn’t take long for newly-anointed starter Byron Leftwich to go down with an injury this week. Although Joey Harrington stepped in to replace the former Jaguar, who suffered a high ankle sprain, it may not be long before coach Bobby Petrino decides to give Redman a try. The former Louisville standout has generally been viewed as a bust from his Baltimore Raven days. Despite all that, Redman seemed to have a good grasp of the offense in the preseason. Stay tuned.

CHRIS HENRY (RB-TENN)- Buried behind lead backs Lendale White and Chris Brown to start the season, Henry has had little opportunity to showcase the skills that made him a second round pick out of the University of Arizona until this Sunday. Against the Texans, Henry was impressive in gaining 57 yards on 11 carries, including a 4-yard touchdown run. The 6’ 0” 228 pounder brings good size and 4.4 speed to the table, which complements the inside, short-yardage strengths of White.

MAURICE MORRIS (RB-SEA)- As Shaun Alexander’s disastrous season continues, coach Mike Holmgren may begin carving a larger role for longtime backup Maurice Morris, who produced 42 yards on 10 carries against the Rams. Although he has never performed against tougher defenses, Morris has significantly less mileage on his wheels than the aforementioned Alexander.

GLENN MARTINEZ (WR-MIA)- The 25-year-old journeyman is Denver’s third receiver and despite only recording one catch for 11 yards against the Steelers, Jay Cutler did look deep for the former Detroit Lion. Look for him to get more looks in the coming weeks with the cannon-armed Cutler behind center. Martinez also runs back kickoffs and punts.

DEREK HAGAN (WR-MIA)- The recent trade of star wide out Chris Chambers has given the 23-year-old Hagan a chance to establish himself as Miami’s top receiver. In this Sunday’s loss to New England, the 6’ 2” receiver led his team with 4 catches for 56 yards. In his short tenure in the NFL, Hagan has showed the potential of becoming a strong receiver capable of making receptions over the middle. He may also develop into a solid end zone option.

WILL HELLER (TE-SEA)- The fifth-year veteran could be looking at a bigger role as the 35-year old Marcus Pollard trudges along with a bum knee this year. In this week’s win versus the Rams, Heller recorded three receptions for 18 yards and one touchdown. Unlike fellow Seattle receivers, the 6’ 6” tight end presents a huge target on short yardage and goal line plays.

SUNDAY MORNING QUARTERBACK

Dolphins quarterback Trent Green has been placed on the injured reserve, ending his season and most likely his career. Despite selecting John Beck in the second round of last year’s draft, don’t be surprised if Miami finds the opportunity to select a franchise quarterback too good of an opportunity to pass up.

In Baltimore, Kyle Boller will start. Steve McNair is listed as the backup this week.

The Chiefs have activated former All Pro running back Priest Holmes. He will backup Larry Johnson as the team traded Michael Bennett to Tampa Bay earlier in the week.

Giants running back Brandon Jacobs will be in the starting lineup. Some “mainstream media” outlets have been reporting Jacobs is out, which is not the case.

The duo of Fred Taylor and Maurice Jones-Drew will both be in the lineup Sunday after being limited in practice during the week.

After being inactive last week, Ron Dayne will serve as Ahman Green’s back up on Sunday for Houston.

Keep an eye on Quinton Gather this week as he is expected to backup LenDale White when Tennessee visits Houston. With Chris Brown injured, the team does not entrust rookie running back Chris Henry to handle backup duties.

World, meet Kyle Eckel. Look for the New England running back to hit paydirt Sunday.

Colts wide out Marvin Harison (knee) will play.

The Broncos received devastating news this week when it was learned wide reciver Javon Walker will be out at least six weeks after undergoing knee surgery. If Denver is out of the playoff hunt during his time of return, they could hold him out of action until next season.

Tight end Chris Baker will miss Sunday’s game with a back injury. One has to wonder if that is really the case as Baker was disciplined earlier in the week by head coach Eric Mangjni for his comments following last week’s game.

WEEK SEVEN FANTASY PREVIEW

San Francisco @ New York Giants
Eli Manning is looking a lot better, and the Giants are running really well using all three of their backs. I like Reuben Droughns and Brandon Jacobs, who both got carries last week. I’m tempted to play Amani Toomer, who had a great game last week, but San Fran stops opposing WR pretty well. I don’t like many 49ers this week, regardless of whether Alex Smith plays or not.

Atlanta @ New Orleans
New Orleans finally woke up, and I like them again this week. David Patten was the beneficiary last week, but where has he been? He hasn’t done anything in years. Play Lance Moore, who is younger and also returns kicks. Short of Jerious Norwood breaking a long run like last week, which he hadn’t done before this season, I don’t like any Falcons even against the weak Saints’ D. Byron Leftwich takes about 20 minutes to drop back and throw, and behind that line he’ll have problems. Falcons wide-outs are also targeted fairly evenly, and it remains to be seen who Leftwich will look for.

New England @ Miami
With Sammy Morris out, it looks like Kevin Faulk will probably be the guy this week, but the Patriots are crafty and could surprise everyone by using Heath Evans. I wouldn’t be surprised, though, if they go up very early and both runners make noise. I’d lean toward Faulk over Evans, but it’s hard to call. Without Chris Chambers, who was traded to San Diego, the Dolphins are even more pathetic on offense. Ronnie Browns will probably catch a lot of passes, but it’s hard to run on the Pats.

Arizona @ Washington
Kurt, I know you tend to hurt yourself, but couldn’t you have maybe lasted more than 2 drop backs? You made your coach put in Tim Rattay. Yuck. Warner may be back this week, but regardless, Washington is nasty to passing games, and I’d play my Cardinals with care. Santana Moss supposedly benched himself last week, but if he plays this week he has a great matchup. Randle-El is also a play if he suits up.

Baltimore @ Buffalo
Baltimore has been iffy against the pass, allowing a few teams to go off. But I just don’t see Trent Edwards, who has been mostly dinking (sometimes dunking), down the field. Buffalo’s O gets dominated here. Kyle Boller is starting, and could see some success against the Bills.

Tampa Bay @ Detroit
OK, so my hunch about Earnest Graham didn’t quite pan out last week. But, I’m sticking with my guy here. He’s a strong runner, they pound it at the goal line, and Detroit is Swiss cheese. Michael Bennett probably won’t factor in much this soon after being acquired, so Graham is still the man here for now. Ike Hilliard is also a strong play. Tatum Bell wanted to get traded, but wasn’t. Welcome back to potential fantasy relevance, Kevin Jones. He’s decent this week.

Tennessee @ Houston
If Vince Young’s injury forces Kerry Collins into the lineup, get ready for some ineptitude. He looked awful last year for the Titans. LenDale White will play well, especially if Chris Brown is out. Houston’s Kevin Walter continues to play well, but the Titans are tough. I’m also sitting the Texans run game against Tennessee.

Kansas City @ Oakland
Jeff Webb surprised and was targeted as many times as Dwayne Bowe last week, but I’d wait to see this again before I buy. Bowe has tough corner Nnamdi Asomugha, but I’d play him anyway. Ronald Curry still got the most targets last week, but I’d keep watching Jerry Porter. Neither is great this week, though.

New York Jets @ Cincinnati
Alright, loyal NFL Draft Bible readers, I need to get something off my chest. I am a New York Jets fan. This is a rough year for Gang Green, and for their quarterback, Chad Pennington, whom I have loved for years.. He has always had a noodle-arm, but his arm is the least of his problems right now. He used to make up for it with sound decision-making, accurate passing, and good leadership. Right now, those positive qualities are absent, and the Jets are left with just the weak arm: ask Thomas Jones, Laveranues Coles and Jerricho Cotchery. Sure, Jones had 120 yards last week, but much of that came on the Jets’ first drive of the game before the Eagles remembered Pennington can’t throw more than 12 yards down field. Now, having said all of this, Coach Mangini is sticking with Chad this week, and the Bengals certainly won’t provide too much resistance: they allow almost 250 yards in the air and almost 150 on the ground. Start all of your Jets this week, but get ready for some potential changes in the coming weeks.

Oh, I almost forgot. Start all your Bengals: the Jets’ D may have more holes than the O.

Minnesota @ Dallas
Adrian! I had been thinking that Peterson would be a sell because of Chester Taylor coming back, the fact that he was relying on some big plays to get his yards, and that the Vikings were going to see some tougher opponents coming up. Never mind all of that. Peterson is the most talented player on his team, and as much as I want to caution his owners from counting too heavily on a guy who needs to bust big runs for points, I can’t. He’s too good. He keeps breaking out for monster gains. Forget Chester. Forget the Bears’ defense. Forget the Cowboys’ defense. He’s a great player, and will score for you against most teams. For Dallas, it’s the usual story against Minny. Sit the running backs, start everyone involved in the passing game (2nd best run D, worst pass D).

Chicago @ Philadelphia
After being torched by Adrian Peterson last week, the Bears get to face Brian Westbrook, another excellent open field runner. I could see this game being all about Westbrook running and catching screens all day, and I still can’t rely on any Eagle WRs. I’m still banking on Reggie Brown eventually emerging here, but this isn’t a great matchup. Cedric Benson runs like an old man, and looks generally lame. Sit him and get the other Adrian Peterson, who I bet will be fantasy relevant before the end of the year.

St. Louis @ Seattle
Shaun. Please. You were the MVP 2 years ago. You look hesitant, slow, and bored. But if you can’t have yourself a game this week, then I don’t know what to tell you. The Rams can’t do anything on either side of the ball, so Shaun should have the chance to run in the second half this week. By the way, keep an eye on Leonard Weaver, who broke a big one, and could get a bigger role as the season progresses. D.J. Hackett looks like he’ll play this week, and he couldn’t have a better matchup. Bobby Engram, and even Nate Burleson are solid starts also. Marc Bulger is back this week, so Torry Holt should see a better game. Seattle’s defense is fairly middle-of-the-road, so use your Rams as you would any other week.

Pittsburgh @ Denver
Denver’s rush defense has fallen quite a bit this season, allowing 187 yards per game. This makes Najeh Davenport startable this week. Pittsburgh is also getting Santonio Holmes and Hines Ward back this week, but Denver is great vs. the pass. Denver’s RB situation is a bit up in the air, but it’s not a good week against Pittsburgh.

Indianapolis @ Jacksonville
You can’t ever sit your Colts, but the Jags have given them problems in the past. Maurice Jones-Drew is back, and is a start for sure. As for Jaguar receivers, it’s anyone’s guess from week to week who will emerge as they are pretty egalitarian. I don’t particularly like any of them.

SELLER'S MARKET

Ralph Mancini, FFI Sr. Writer

Fantasy articles lending advice on who’s heating up and who to pick up are a dime-a-dozen. This week, FFi takes a look the players whose values may have peaked. These are the ones you should be looking to unload.

DEREK ANDERSON (QB-CLE)- One of the league’s biggest surprises this season has masterfully played the role of gunslinger by connecting with stars Braylon Edwards and Kellen Winslow Jr. on several big plays. Coming off his most efficient performance versus an inept Miami Dolphins team, with three touchdowns and no interceptions, the 6’6” Anderson has reached unexpected heights in fantasy circles. For all his attributes, however, Anderson has been playing with house money for much of the year by getting away with dangerous throws in double and triple coverage that have often landed in his receivers’ hands. Look for his interception totals to rise as he faces tougher defenses later in the year. With road games against Pittsburgh and Baltimore coming up in weeks 11 and 12, this might be a most propitious time to gauge his value in the trade market.

MATT SCHAUB (QB- HOU)- For all the accolades Schaub has received during the early part of the season, the first-year Texan is slowly beginning to show his warts. In Sunday’s loss versus Jacksonville, the former Falcon badly missed both the wide open Kevin Walter and Owen Daniels in the end zone while the Texans were still the ballgame. Also factor in that Schaub has only two touchdowns and four interceptions since week three. The 26-year-old does have a promising future ahead of him, but for the time being, take advantage of the early season hype and trade him for a more proven player.

JAY CUTLER (WR-DEN)- With quite possibly the best arm in the league, Cutler has the physical tools to become a future star. Unfortunately for Cutler, his top receiver, Javon Walker, has been banged up for much of the season, making life difficult for the still developing passer. Although it sounds as though Walker will be suiting up this Sunday, it’s also very dubious that he’ll be playing at full strength for the remainder of the year. Use Cutler’s week nine matchup versus the Lions as a selling point and look to upgrade your running backs or receivers.

CLINTON PORTIS (RB-WASH)- Make no mistake, Portis is a quality back, but also know that the Redskins offensive line has become a veritable mash unit with injuries to Jon Jansen, Randy Thomas, Casey Rabach and Todd Wade. The man of many disguises has yet to surpass 100 yards rushing in any one game this year. Don’t expect that to happen against the likes of New England, Chicago and Minnesota. His tendonitis may also flare up at any time. Trade him.

LAMONT JORDAN (RB-OAK)- A bad back combined with a crowded backfield featuring the likes of Dominic Rhodes and Justin “Huggy Bear” Fargas should spell less carries for the former Maryland Terrapin going forward.

MARQUES COLSTON (WR-NO)- While many are expecting better things from Colston in the coming weeks, a number of secondary receivers (David Patten, Lance Moore) have been quietly emerging in the Saints offense. In last Sunday’s win over Seattle, Colston was rarely targeted and when he was thrown to, he dropped the ball. Is the former rookie standout better than this? Yes. But in an offense dominated by Reggie Bush, Colston cannot be counted on as an every week starter. This week he matches up with Atlanta’s cover corner D’Angelo Hall. Trade him before others begin to notice his shortcomings.

VINCENT JACKSON (WR-SD)- A lot was expected from the 6’5” Jackson this year, and for the most part, he hasn’t delivered. The third-year professional has dropped a number of passes this season and cost San Diego valuable points. The acquisition of Chris Chambers clearly moves Jackson down in the hierarchy of Charger receivers.

BERNARD BERRIAN (WR-CHI)- This deep threat should worry his fantasy owners, as he has been plagued by a sore foot and an injured toe all season. His downfield speed, furthermore, may be deemphasized in future weeks with tight ends Desmond Clark and Greg Olsen becoming prime targets for quarterback Brian Griese, who isn’t exactly known for having a howitzer arm. Sell Berrian’s 39-yard touchdown catch this past weekend when trading him and don’t mention the fact that Viking corner Antoine Winfield slipped and left the wide out all by his lonesome on his path to the end zone.

WEEK 7 WAIVER WIRE HELP

SEARCHING THE SCRAP HEAP

VINNY TESTAVERDE (CAR-QB)- If you have any extra space on your roster, make room for Vinny. Yes, that Vinny---43-years young. Signed just days ago to fill in for a banged-up David Carr, the 21st year journeyman authored a very credible performance versus the Cardinals this Sunday by completing 20 of 30 passes for 206 yards and one touchdown. Testaverde kept his team out of trouble and also uncorked some long throws, including a 65-yard touchdown to Steve Smith. While Carr will probably regain his starting role, coach John Fox will not be hesitant to turn to Vinny from Elmont once again if necessary.

D’ANGELO WILLIAMS (CAR-RB)- The second-year runner clearly distanced himself from the less explosive DeShaun Foster by breaking off some long runs to the outside during the second half of Carolina’s 25-10 victory over Arizona. Williams capped off his day with a 75-yard burst down the left sideline and later added a 13-yard touchdown run. The writing’s on the wall, and it won’t be long before Carolna starts phasing out the fumble-prone Foster in favor of the younger, faster Williams.

TROY WILLIAMSON (MIN-WR)- The much maligned and often criticized Williamson put his best attribute (his speed) on grand display Sunday by scoring on a 60-yard touchdown pass against Chicago. Although, he only ended up with two receptions, it should be noted that Tarvaris Jackson is back starting at quarterback and while that may alarm most Viking fans, the 24-year-old signal caller has a good arm and will be looking to Williamson quite often when he needs to throw it deep.

ERIC MOULDS (TEN-WR)- Far removed from his halcyon days in Buffalo, Moulds has gradually been carving out a bigger role for himself as a reliable possession receiver in Tennessee’s aerial attack. Following his four-catch 31-yard performance versus Atlanta last week, Moulds recorded 6 receptions for 49 yards. In bigger leagues, the grizzled veteran may be one to look at as a bye-week fill-in.

CHRIS HENRY (CIN-WR)- The troubled, but extremely gifted receiver is only two weeks away from returning from his eight-week suspension. Picking him up now could pay immediate dividends for those looking to reinforce their receiver corps. Quite simply, Henry is the most talented third receiver in the league and his 6’4” frame can pose matchup nightmares for nickelbacks trying to defend him.

RYAN LONGWELL (MIN-K)- The oft-overlooked Longwell has been a model of consistency this season by connecting on eight of nine field goal attempts. The former Packer kicked field goals of 48 and 55 yards in Minnesota’s 34-31 win over Chicago. The fact that Longwell plays his home games indoors is another added bonus.

ONES TO WATCH

KERRY COLLINS (TENN-QB)- Collins stepped in for starting quarterback Vince Young, who left Sunday’s game versus Tampa Bay with a groin injury, and didn’t exactly distinguish himself with 10 completions for 125 yards. Monitor Young’s status. At last report, he is considered day-to-day. Although he still has a strong enough arm to make deep throws, Collins can be disastrous when forced out of the pocket. The former Giant is a total crapshoot at this point.

LEONARD WEAVER (SEA-RB)- In the wake of Mack Strong’s retirement, Weaver has assumed the role of lead fullback in Seattle’s backfield. Blessed with good size (242 pounds), quick feet and soft hands, Weaver put his talents to good use versus New Orleans with three carries for 40 yards and four receptions for 53 yards. Weaver might be looking at more carries if Shaun Alexander continues to disappoint.

KEENAN McCARDELL (WASH-WR)- The recently signed 37-year-old chipped in with two catches for 30 yards in Washington’s 17-14 loss to Green Bay. Although it’s hard to speculate how many snaps McCardell will get going forward, it’s safe to say that the Redskins should make more room for the dependable possession receiver on a team with so many health risks and question marks at the position.

JUSTIN GAGE (TENN-WR)- The fifth-year professional is commonly looked upon as a disappointment. Gage did show some vital signs this Sunday with four receptions for 82 yards, including a 42-yard grab. At 6’4” 212 pounds, Gage has the tools to make tough catches over the middle, although as a receiver he isn’t the fleetest of foot.

DAVID ANDERSON (HOU-WR)- The obscure wide out was frequently targeted in Houston’s loss to Jacksonville and finished with three receptions for 30 yards. With Andre’ Johnson rumored to be at least another month, the Colorado State product may continue to see more time as a third receiver. Keep an eye on him once rookie Jacoby Jones returns.