Fantasy Football: 2012 Wide Receiver Projections

There is a lot depth this year at wide receiver. While the top tier players are immensely talented, fantasy owners will be able to find a lot of value in the middle rounds. 

According to ESPN's average draft position (ADP) data, most owners are holding off on drafting a wide receiver until they have at least one running back or elite quarterback. This is a smart strategy given the aforementioned glut of talent in the 30-70 pick range. 

The list below is projections based on standard scoring* fantasy leagues and risk and upside.

Free printable cheat sheets: Position rankings // Top 200  

1) Calvin Johnson, Detroit Lions

He's the best wide receiver in football and he's the only getting better. Johnson solidify his spot a top the receiver list with a monster season in 2011. He finished with 96 catches for 1681 yards and 16 touchdowns. With a healthy Matthew Stafford throwing to him, Johnson is a threat to score on any play. Projected fantasy points: 235

2011 NFL Draft: Top 10 Wide Receiver Prospects

For the NFL teams looking for a wide receiver, there are some intriguing prospects in the 2011 NFL Draft. A.J. Green and Julio Jones are elite receivers who are both projected to be top 10 picks. While those are the guys getting the headlines, there are other players who could provide an NFL team with a quality wide receiver.

2011 NFL Draft Top 10 Wide Receiver Prospects:

1) A.J. Green, Georgia

2) Julio Jones, Alabama

3) Torrey Smith, Maryland

4) Leonard Hankerson, Miami (FL)

5) Titus Young, Boise St.

6) Vincent Brown, San Diego St.

7) Jonathan Baldwin, Pittsburgh

8) Randall Cobb, Kentucky

9) Greg Little, North Carolina

10) Jerrel Jernigan, Troy  

Others to watch:
11) Austin Pettis, Boise St. 
12) Greg Salas, Hawaii 
13) Ronald Johnson, USC
14) Tandon Doss, Indiana

2011 NFL Draft Scouting Report: Jonathan Baldwin

Jonathan Baldwin, Pittsburgh (6'4' 225 lbs.)

Positives: He has great size and speed. He ran a 4.5 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine. He's 6'4" and does a great job of going after jump balls. He has above average hands. He's a solid runner after the catch and has big play making ability.

Negatives: He's not a very good route runner. He's not very strong and has trouble at times getting off press coverage. He has a questionable work ethic. He has some character concerns, including a disorderly conduct and harassment charge in 2009.

Playoff Fantasy Football Rankings -- QB, RB, WR/TE, K, Def

For those of you who can't say goodbye to the Fantasy Football season, here are my rankings for the playoffs. You'll notice on my lists that players on the New England Patriots, Philadelphia Eagles, Atlanta Falcons and Pittsburgh Steelers are ranked the highest. Those are the four teams I think have the best chance at winning the Super Bowl. Good luck to all you Fantasy Football junkies who don't stop playing until a Super Bowl champion has been crowned.   

QBs
1. New England QB
2. Philadelphia QB
3. Pittsburgh QB
4. New Orleans QB
5. Atlanta QB
6. Green Bay QB
7. Baltimore QB
8. Indianapolis QB
9. New York Jets QB
10. Chicago QB
11. Seattle QB
12. Kansas City QB

RBs
1. BenJarvus Green-Ellis
2. Michael Turner
3. Ray Rice
4. LeSean McCoy
5. Rashard Mendenhall
6. Danny Woodhead
7. LaDainian Tomlinson
8. Jamaal Charles
9. Matt Forte
10. Shonn Greene
11. Joseph Addai
12. Marshawn Lynch
13. Willis McGahee
14. Reggie Bush
15. Thomas Jones
16. Chester Taylor
17. Brandon Jackson
18. Jason Snelling
19. John Kuhn
20. Julius Jones
21. Sammy Morris
22. Dexter McCluster
23. James Starks
24. Donald Brown
25. Justin Forsett
26. Isaac Redman

WR/TEs
1. Wes Welker
2. Roddy White
3. DeSean Jackson
4. Deion Branch
5. Jeremy Maclin
6. Mike Wallace
7. Greg Jennings
8. Reggie Wayne
9. Santonio Holmes
10. Rob Gronkowski
11. Tony Gonzalez
12. Hines Ward
13. Lance Moore
14. Anquan Boldin
15. Derrick Mason
16. Marques Colston
17. Julian Edelman
18. Jimmy Graham
19. Robert Meachem
20. Braylon Edwards
21. Aaron Hernandez
22. Jacob Tamme
23. Johnny Knox
24. Blair White
25. Pierre Garcon
26. Antwan Randle El
27. Heath Miller
28. Mike Williams
29. Brent Celek
30. Donald Driver
31. Devin Hester
32. Todd Heap
33. Greg Olsen
34. Devin Aromashodu
35. Dustin Keller
36. Brandon Tate
37. Devery Henderson
38. Jason Avant
39. Ben Obomanu
40. Jordy Nelson
41. Tony Moeaki
42. James Jones
43. Earl Bennett
44. Donald Lee
45. Chris Chambers
46. Andrew Quarless
47. Emmanuel Sanders
48. Riley Cooper

Ks
1. New England K
2. Philadelphia K
3. Atlanta K
4. Pittsburgh K
5. New Orleans K
6. Baltimore K
7. Chicago K
8. Green Bay K
9. New York Jets K
10. Indianapolis K
11. Kansas City K
12. Seattle K

DEFs
1. New England D
2. Pittsburgh D
3. Philadelphia D
4. Atlanta D
5. Baltimore D
6. New York Jets D
7. New Orleans D
8. Chicago D
9. Green Bay D
10. Kansas City D
11. Indianapolis D
12. Seattle D

2011 NFL free agent wide receivers

-Vincent Jackson (SD)
-Sidney Rice (MIN)
-Santonio Holmes (NYJ)
-Braylon Edwards (NYJ)
-Malcom Floyd (SD)
-Steve Smith (NYG)
-Terrell Owens (CIN)
-Randy Moss (TEN)
-Mike Williams (SEA)
-James Jones (GB)
-Steve Breaston (ARI)
-Early Doucet (ARZ)
-Brian Finneran (ATL)
-Donte' Stallworth (BAL)
-TJ Houshmandzadeh (BAL)
-Rashied Davis (CHI)
-Devin Aromashadu (CHI)
-Chansi Stuckey (CLE)
-Sam Hurd (DAL)
-Jacoby Jones (HOU)
-Mike Sims-Walker (JAC)
-Kevin Curtis (MIA)
-Hank Baskett (MIN)
-Greg Lewis (MIN)
-Lance Moore (NO)
-Courtney Roby (NO)
-Derek Hagan (NYG)
-Darius Reynaud (NYG)
-Brad Smith (NYJ)
-Johnnie Lee Higgins (OAK)
-Legedu Naanee (SD)
-Ben Obomanu (SEA)
-Laurent Robinson (STL)
-Danny Amendola (STL)
-Mark Clayton (STL)
-Maurice Stovall (TB)
-Santana Moss (WAS)

Free agents by position: QB, RB, WR, TE, OL, DL, LB, CB, S

Week 14: Fantasy football rankings -- QB, RB, WR/TE

Quarterbacks
1. Aaron Rodgers at DET
2. Drew Brees vs STL
3. Michael Vick at DAL
4. Tom Brady at CHI
5. Peyton Manning at TEN
6. Joe Flacco at HOU
7. Philip Rivers vs KC
8. Kyle Orton at ARI
9. Matt Ryan at CAR
10. Jay Cutler vs NE
11. Matt Schaub vs BAL
12. Josh Freeman at WAS
13. David Garrard vs OAK 
14. Jon Kitna vs PHI
15. Eli Manning at MIN
16. Ben Roethlisberger vs CIN
17. Drew Stanton vs GB
18. Carson Palmer at PIT
19. Sam Bradford at NO
20. Drew Stanton vs GB

Running Backs
1. Peyton Hillis at BUF
2. Maurice Jones-Drew vs OAK
3. Michael Turner at CAR
4. Adrian Peterson vs NYG
5. Rashard Mendenhall vs CIN
6. Knowshon Moreno at ARI
7. Arian Foster vs BAL
8. Steven Jackson STL at NO
9. Jamaal Charles at SD
10. Ray Rice at HOU
11. Chris Johnson vs IND
12. LeSean McCoy at DAL
13. LeGarrette Blount at WAS
14. Darren McFadden at JAC
15. Mike Tolbert vs KC
16. Ahmad Bradshaw at MIN
17. Matt Forte vs NE
18. BenJarvus Green-Ellis at CHI
19. Brandon Jacobs at MIN
20. Fred Jackson vs CLE
21. Chris Ivory vs STL
22. Marshawn Lynch at SF
23. Jonathan Stewart vs ATL
24. Tim Hightower vs DEN
25. Thomas Jones at SD
26. LaDainian Tomlinson vs MIA
27. Anthony Dixon vs SEA
27. Tashard Choice vs PHI
28. James Starks at DET
29. Javarris James at TEN
30. Cedric Benson at PIT
31. Felix Jones vs PHI
32. Rashad Jennings vs OAK
33. Ronnie Brown at NYJ
34. Shonn Greene vs MIA
35. Ricky Williams at NYJ
36. Michael Bush at JAC
37. Brian Westbrook vs SEA
38. Danny Woodhead at CHI
39. Jahvid Best vs GB
40. Brandon Jackson at DET
41. James Davis vs TB
42. Cadillac Williams at WAS
43. Maurice Morris vs GB
44. Donald Brown at TEN
45. John Kuhn at DET
46. Keiland Williams vs TB
47. Darren Sproles vs KC
48. Reggie Bush vs STL
49. Beanie Wells vs DEN
50. Justin Forsett at SF

Wide Receivers/Tight Ends
1. Greg Jennings at DET
2. Calvin Johnson vs GB
3. Andre Johnson vs BAL
4. Roddy White at CAR
5. Marques Colston vs STL
6. Anquan Boldin at HOU
7. Reggie Wayne at TEN 
8. Jeremy Maclin at DAL
9. Brandon Lloyd at ARI 
10. Wes Welker at CHI  
11. Mike Williams at WAS
12. Terrell Owens at PIT
13. DeSean Jackson at DAL
14. Miles Austin vs PHI
15. Sidney Rice vs NYG
16. Dwayne Bowe at SD
17. Donald Driver at DET
18. Santonio Holmes vs MIA
19. Michael Crabtree vs SEA
20. Mike Wallace vs CIN
21. Mario Manningham at MIN
22. Larry Fitzgerald vs DEN
23. Santana Moss vs TB
24. Steve Johnson vs CLE
25. Jacoby Ford at JAC
26. Robert Meachem vs STL
27. Pierre Garcon at TEN
28. Antonio Gates vs KC
29. Ben Obomanu at SF
30. Deion Branch at CHI
31. Blair White at TEN
32. Hines Ward vs CIN
33. Derrick Mason at HOU
34. Vernon Davis vs. Seattle
35. Earl Bennett vs NE
36. Jacob Tamme at Tennessee
37. Davone Bess at NYJ
38. Lance Moore vs STL
39. Chad Ochocinco at PIT
40. Nate Washington vs IND
41. Johnny Knox vs NE
42. Braylon Edwards vs MIA
43. Percy Harvin vs NYG
44. Tony Gonzalez at CAR
45. T.J. Houshmandzadeh at HOU
46. Danny Amendola at NO
47. Derek Hagan at MIN 
48. Steve Breaston vs DEN
49. Roy E. Williams vs PHI
50. Brandon Pettigrew vs GB

Week 13: Fantasy football rankings -- QB, RB, WR/TE

QB
1. Aaron Rodgers vs SF
2. Philip Rivers vs OAK
3. Drew Brees at CIN
4. Michael Vick vs HOU
5. Peyton Manning vs DAL
6. Kyle Orton at KC
7. Tom Brady vs NYJ
8. Jay Cutler at DET
9. Matt Cassel vs DEN
10. Matt Ryan at TB
11. Eli Manning vs WAS
12. Matt Schaub at PHI
13. Josh Freeman vs ATL
14. David Garrard at TEN
15. Mark Sanchez at NE
16. Sam Bradford at ARI
17. Joe Flacco vs PIT
18. Ben Roethlisberger at BAL
19. Matt Hasselbeck vs CAR
20. Ryan Fitzpatrick at MIN

RB
1. Peyton Hillis at MIA
2. Arian Foster at PHI
3. Jamaal Charles vs DEN
4. Michael Turner at TB
5. Maurice Jones-Drew at TEN 
6. Chris Johnson vs JAC
7. Steven Jackson at ARI
8. Mike Tolbert vs OAK
9. Rashard Mendenhall at BAL
10. Adrian Peterson vs Buffalo 
11. Ray Rice vs PIT
12. LeSean McCoy vs HOU
13. Matt Forte at DET
14. Knowshon Moreno at KC
15. Mike Goodson at SEA
16. Ahmad Bradshaw vs WAS
17. Felix Jones at IND
18. Brandon Jacobs vs WAS
19. Thomas Jones vs DEN
20. Toby Gerhart vs Buffalo
21. Jonathan Stewart at SEA
22. Chris Ivory at CIN
23. Cedric Benson vs NO
24. BenJarvus Green-Ellis vs NYJ
25. LaDainian Tomlinson at NE
26. Fred Jackson at MIN
27. Ronnie Brown vs CLE
28. Danny Woodhead vs NYJ
29. Darren McFadden at SD
30. Brian Westbrook at GB
31. Ricky Williams vs CLE
32. Donald Brown vs DAL
33. Maurice Morris vs CHI
34. Brandon Jackson vs SF
35. Keiland Williams at NYG
36. Darren Sproles vs OAK
37. Beanie Wells vs STL
38. Anthony Dixon at GB
39. LeGarrette Blount vs ATL
40. Marshawn Lynch vs CAR
41. Tim Hightower vs STL
42. Shonn Greene at NE
43. Justin Forsett vs CAR
44. Reggie Bush at CIN
45. Tashard Choice at IND

WR
1. Dwayne Bowe vs DEN
2. Brandon Lloyd at KC
3. Calvin Johnson vs CHI
4. Andre Johnson at PHI
5. Roddy White at TB
6. Marques Colston at CIN
7. Greg Jennings vs SF
8. DeSean Jackson vs HOU
9. Santonio Holmes at NE
10. Miles Austin at IND
11. Reggie Wayne vs DAL 
12. Dez Bryant at IND
13. Steve Johnson at MIN
14. Jeremy Maclin vs HOU
15. Mario Manningham vs WAS
16. Mike Wallace at BAL
17. Larry Fitzgerald vs STL
18. Mike Williams (TB) vs ATL
19. Wes Welker vs NYJ
20. Jacob Tamme vs DAL
21. Braylon Edwards at NE
22. Anquan Boldin vs PIT
23. Blair White vs DAL
24. Johnny Knox at DET
25. Terrell Owens vs NO
26. Derrick Mason vs PIT
27. Ben Obomanu vs CAR
28. Hines Ward at BAL
29. Pierre Garcon vs DAL
30. Antonio Gates vs OAK
31. Percy Harvin vs BUF
32. Mike Thomas JAC at TEN 
33. Sidney Rice vs BUF
34. Davone Bess vs CLE
35. Malcom Floyd vs OAK
36. James Jones vs SF
37. Lance Moore at CIN
38. Mike Sims-Walker at TEN
39. Deion Branch vs NYJ
40. Danny Amendola  at ARI
41. Santana Moss at NYG
42. Michael Crabtree at GB
43. Chad Ochocinco vs NO
44. Legedu Naanee vs OAK
45. Robert Meachem at CIN
46. Nate Washington vs JAC
47. Steve Smith (CAR) at SEA
48. Jabar Gaffney at KC
49. Steve Breaston vs STL
50. Kevin Boss vs. WAS

Week 12: Fantasy football rankings -- QB, RB, WR/TE

QB
1. Drew Brees at DAL
2. Aaron Rodgers at ATL
3. Philip Rivers at IND
4. Peyton Manning vs. SD
5. Ben Roethlisberger at BUF
6. Tom Brady at DET
7. Shaun Hill vs. NE
8. Michael Vick at CHI
9. Matt Schaub vs.TEN
10. Joe Flacco vs. TB
11. Kyle Orton DEN vs. STL
12. Mark Sanchez vs. CIN
13. Eli Manning vs. JAC
14. Matt Ryan vs. GB
15. Matt Cassel at SEA
16. Jon Kitna DAL vs. NO
17. Sam Bradford at DEN
18. Ryan Fitzpatrick vs. PIT
19. Brett Favre at WAS
20. Donovan McNabb vs. MIN

RB
1.  Chris Johnson at HOU
2. Adrian Peterson at WAS
3. Peyton Hillis vs. CAR
4. Rashard Mendenhall at BUF
5. Steven Jackson at DEN
6. Arian Foster vs. TEN
7. Frank Gore at ARI
8. Ray Rice vs. TB
9. Jamaal Charles at SEA
10 Maurice Jones-Drew at NYG
11. Mike Tolbert at IND
12. BenJarvus Green-Ellis at DET
13. Michael Turner vs. GB
14. Darren McFadden vs. MIA
15. LaDainian Tomlinson vs. CIN
16. Knowshon Moreno vs. STL
17. Brandon Jacobs vs. JAC
18. Thomas Jones at SEA
19. Ahmad Bradshaw vs. JAC
20. LeGarrette Blount at BAL
21. LeSean McCoy at CHI
22. Matt Forte CHI vs. PHI 
23. Danny Woodhead at DET
24. Donald Brown vs. SD
25. Keiland Williams vs. MIN
26. Mike Goodson at CLE
27. Felix Jones vs. NO
28. Fred Jackson vs. PIT
29. Cedric Benson at NYJ
30. Justin Forsett vs. KC
31. Ronnie Brown at OAK
32. Darren Sproles at IND
33. Tim Hightower vs. SF
34. Shonn Greene vs. CIN
35. Reggie Bush at DAL
36. Brandon Jackson at ATL
37. Maurice Morris vs. NE
38. Beanie Wells vs. SF
39. Michael Bush vs. MIA
40. Ricky Williams at OAK

WR/TE
1. Calvin Johnson vs. NE
2. Greg Jennings at ATL
3. Roddy White vs. GB
4. Marques Colston at DAL
5. Dwayne Bowe at SEA
6. DeSean Jackson at CHI
7. Brandon Lloyd vs. STL
8. Andre Johnson vs. TEN
9. Santonio Holmes vs. CIN
10. Mike Wallace at BUF
11. Reggie Wayne vs. SD
12. Larry Fitzgerald vs. SF
13. Dez Bryant vs. NO
14. Mike Williams at BAL
15. Jeremy Maclin PHI at CHI
16. Mario Manningham vs. JAC
17. Nate Burleson vs. NE
18. Steve Johnson vs. PIT
19. Wes Welker at DET
20. Miles Austin vs. NO
21. Anquan Boldin vs. TB
22. Braylon Edwards vs. CIN
23. Nate Washington at HOU
24. Malcom Floyd at IND
25. Vincent Jackson at IND
26. Mike Thomas JAC at NYG
27. Percy Harvin MIN at WAS
28. Blair White IND vs. SD
29. Terrell Owens at NYJ
30. Santana Moss WAS vs. MIN
31. Johnny Knox CHI vs. PHI
32. Sidney Rice MIN at WAS 
33. Steve Breaston vs. SF
34. James Jones at ATL
35. Michael Crabtree at ARI
36. Chad Ochocinco at NYJ
37. Danny Amendola at DEN
38. Pierre Garcon vs. SD
39. Deion Branch at DET 
40. Jabar Gaffney vs. STL
41. Jacob Tamme vs. SD
42. Robert Meachem at DAL
43. Lee Evans vs. PIT
44. Randy Moss at HOU
45. Hines Ward at BUF
46. Joel Dreessen vs. TEN
47. Brandon Gibson at DEN
48. Jacoby Ford vs. Miami
49. Derrick Mason vs. TB
50. Deon Butler vs. KC

Week 11: Fantasy football rankings -- QB, RB, WR/TE

QB
1. Drew Brees vs. Seattle
2. Aaron Rodgers at Minnesota
3. Philip Rivers vs. Denver
4. Michael Vick vs. NY Giants
5. Peyton Manning at New England
6. Eli Manning at Philadelphia
7. Tom Brady vs. Indianapolis
8. Carson Palmer vs. Buffalo
9. Joe Flacco at Carolina
10. Matt Ryan at St. Louis
11. Kyle Orton at San Diego
12. Mark Sanchez vs. Houston
13. Shaun Hill at Dallas
14. Ben Roethlisberger vs. Oakland
15. David Garrard vs. Cleveland
16. Vince Young vs. Washington
17. Jon Kitna vs. Detroit
18. Matt Cassel vs. Arizona
19. Josh Freeman at San Francisco
20. Matt Schaub at NY Jets

RB
1. Chris Johnson vs. Washington
2. Frank Gore vs. Tampa Bay
3. Adrian Peterson vs. Green Bay
4. Peyton Hillis at Jacksonville
5. Jamaal Charles vs. Arizona
6. Ray Rice at Carolina
7. Rashard Mendenhall vs. Oakland
8. Ahmad Bradshaw at Philadelphia
9. Maurice Jones-Drew vs. Cleveland
10. Arian Foster at NY Jets
11. Steven Jackson vs. Atlanta
12. Michael Turner at St. Louis
13. BenJarvus Green-Ellis vs. Indianapolis
14. Cedric Benson vs. Buffalo
15. LaDainian Tomlinson vs. Houston
16. Fred Jackson at Cincinnati
17. LaGarrette Blount at San Francisco
18. LeSean McCoy vs. NY Giants
19. Mike Tolbert vs. Denver
20. Darren McFadden at Pittsburgh
21. Knowshon Moreno at San Diego
22. Felix Jones vs. Detroit
23. Thomas Jones vs. Arizona
24. Clinton Portis at Tennessee
25. Ronnie Brown vs. Chicago
26. Shonn Greene vs. Houston
27. Tim Hightower at Kansas City
28. Danny Woodhead vs. Indianapolis
29. Matt Forte at Miami
30. Brandon Jackson at Minnesota
31. Brandon Jacobs at Philadelphia
32. Reggie Bush vs. Seattle
33. Ricky Williams vs. Chicago
34. Ryan Mathews vs. Denver
35. Willis McGahee at Carolina
36. Joseph Addai at New England
37. Justin Forsett at New Orleans
38. Jahvid Best at Dallas
39. Mike Goodson vs. Baltimore
40. Marshawn Lynch at New Orleans

WR/TE
1. Roddy White at St. Louis
2. Calvin Johnson at Dallas
3. Terrell Owens vs. Buffalo
4. DeSean Jackson vs. NY Giants
5. Dwayne Bowe vs. Arizona
6. Hakeem Nicks at Philadelphia
7. Dez Bryant vs. Denver
8. Brandon Lloyd at San Diego
9. Greg Jennings at Minnesota
10. Marques Colston vs. Seattle
11. Larry Fitzgerald at Kansas City
12. Santonio Holmes vs. Houston
13. Andre Johnson at NY Jets
14. Anquan Boldin at Carolina
15. Reggie Wayne at New England
16. Miles Austin v s. Detroit
17. Mike Williams (TB) at San Francisco
18. Mike Wallace vs. Oakland
19. Percy Harvin vs. Green Bay
20. Jeremy Maclin vs. NY Giants
21. Donald Driver at Minnesota
22. Steve Johnson at Cincinnati
23. Michael Crabtree vs. Tampa Bay
24. Jacob Tamme at New England
25. Mario Manningham at Philadelphia
26. Chad Ochocinco vs. Buffalo
27. Pierre Garcon at New England
28. Vernon Davis vs. Tampa Bay
29. Hines Ward vs. Oakland
30. Nate Washington vs. Washington
31. Randy Moss vs. Washington
32. Braylon Edwards vs. Houston
33. Johnny Knox at Miami
34. Danny Amendola vs. Atlanta
35. Wes Welker vs. Indianapolis
36. Brandon Marshall vs. Chicago
37. Mike Thomas vs. Cleveland
38. Mike Williams (SEA) at New Orleans
39. Jabar Gaffney at San Diego
40. Nate Burleson at Dallas
41. Steve Breaston at Kansas City
42. Zack Miller at Pittsburgh
43. Malcom Floyd vs. Denver
44. Santana Moss at Tennessee
45. Lee Evans at Cincinnati
46. Mohamed Massaquoi at Jacksonville
47. Lance Moore vs. Seattle
48. Patrick Crayton vs. Denver
49. Derrick Mason at Carolina  
50. Jacoby Ford at Pittsburgh

Week 10: Fantasy football rankings -- QB, RB, WR/TE

QB
1. Eli Manning vs. Dallas
2. Peyton Manning vs. Cincinnati
3. Ben Roethlisberger vs. New England
4. Matt Schaub at Jacksonville
5. David Garrard vs. Houston
6. Michael Vick at Washington
7. Joe Flacco at Atlanta
8. Kyle Orton vs. Kansas City
9. Tom Brady at Pittsburgh
10. Josh Freeman vs. Carolina
11. Ryan Fitzpatrick vs. Detroit
12. Mark Sanchez at Cleveland
13. Matt Ryan vs. Baltimore
14. Vince Young at Miami
15. Brett Favre at Chicago
16. Shaun Hill at Buffalo
17. Carson Palmer at Indianapolis
18. Jay Cutler vs. Minnesota
19. Derek Anderson vs. Seattle
20. Donovan McNabb vs. Philadelphia

RB
1. Chris Johnson at Miami
2. Arian Foster at Jacksonville
3. Adrian Peterson at Chicago
4. Jamaal Charles at Denver
5. Frank Gore vs. St. Louis
6. Ahmad Bradshaw vs. Dallas
7. Rashard Mendenhall vs. New England
8. Ray Rice at Atlanta
9. Michael Turner vs. Baltimore
10. Maurice Jones-Drew vs. Houston
11. Steven Jackson at San Francisco
12. LeGarrette Blount vs. Carolina
13. LeSean McCoy at Washington
14. Cedric Benson at Indianapolis
15. Peyton Hillis vs. NY Jets
16. Brandon Jacobs vs. Dallas
17. Thomas Jones at Denver
18. LaDainian Tomlinson at Cleveland
19. Knowshon Moreno vs. Kansas City
20. Marshawn Lynch at Arizona
21. Jahvid Best at Buffalo
22. Fred Jackson vs. Detroit
23. Ronnie Brown vs. Tennessee
24. Ryan Torain vs. Philadelphia
25. Donald Brown vs. Cincinnati
26. Beanie Wells vs. Seattle
27. Willis McGahee at Atlanta
28. Matt Forte vs. Minnesota
29. Mike Goodson at Tampa Bay
30. BenJarvus Green-Ellis at Pittsburgh
31. Shonn Greene at Cleveland
32. Ricky Williams vs. Tennessee
33. Danny Woodhead at Pittsburgh
34. Chester Taylor vs. Minnesota
35. Tim Hightower vs. Seattle
36. Felix Jones at NY Giants
37. Justin Forsett at Arizona
38. Marion Barber at NY Giants
39. Keiland Williams vs. Philadelphia
40. Javarris James vs. Cincinnati

WR
1. Andre Johnson at Jacksonville
2. Calvin Johnson at Buffalo
3. Hakeem Nicks vs. Dallas
4. Reggie Wayne vs. Cincinnati
5. Terrell Owens at Indianapolis
6. Roddy White vs. Baltimore
7. Brandon Lloyd vs. Kansas City
8. Anquan Boldin vs. Atlanta
9. Larry Fitzgerald vs. Seattle
10. DeSean Jackson at Washington
11. Hines Ward vs. New England
12. Mike Sims-Walker vs. Houston
13. Dez Bryant at NY Giants
14. Jeremy Maclin at Washington
15. Mario Manningham vs. Dallas
16. Randy Moss at Miami
17. Mike Wallace vs. New England
18. Mike Williams (TB) vs. Carolina
19. Steve Johnson vs. Detroit
20. Miles Austin at NY Giants
21. Dwayne Bowe at Denver
22. Nate Washington at Miami
23. Brandon Marshall vs. Tennessee
24. Percy Harvin at Chicago
25. Jacob Tamme vs. Cincinnati
26. Pierre Garcon vs. Cincinnati
27. Mike Thomas vs. Houston
28. Braylon Edwards at Cleveland
29. Nate Burleson at Buffalo
30. Michael Crabtree vs. St. Louis
31. Santonio Holmes at Cleveland
32. Johnny Knox vs. Minnesota
33. Jabar Gaffnet vs. Kansas City
34. Santana Moss vs. Philadelphia
35. Chad OchoCinco at Indianapolis
36. Lee Evans vs. Detroit
37. Derrick Mason at Atlanta
38. Dustin Keller at Cleveland
39. Danny Amendola at San Francisco
40. Davone Bess vs. Tennessee
41. Blair White vs. Cincinnati
42. Mike Williams (SEA) at Arizona
43. Wes Welker at Pittsburgh
44. Steve Breaston vs. Seattle
45. Mercedes Lewis vs. Houston
46. Steve Smith (CAR) at Tampa Bay
47. Chris Cooley vs. Philadelphia
48. Bernard Berrian at Chicago
49. Eddie Royal vs. Kansas City

Week 10: Working the Waiver Wire

The first of the Thursday night games have arrived, which in most leagues means you have to submit waiver requests earlier than usual. Much like I did last week in my 'Working the WaiverWire' article, most of the players on this week's list are fill-ins only for this week. If you're still searching for a reliable, every week fantasy football starter - let's be honest - you're probably not going to find him in week 10.

David Garrard – QB Jacksonville
What better way to come off your bye then with a match-up against the Houston Texans. Garrard faces the worst passing defense, the same defense that gave up nearly 300 yards and 4 TDs to Philip Rivers last week. Garrard is the perfect fill-in for Drew Brees, Aaron Rodgers or Philip Rivers.

Josh Freeman – QB Tampa Bay
Quietly, Freeman is becoming a serviceable fantasy football starter. The second year QB has led Tampa to a 5-3 record and he’s finding some success throwing the ball. Freeman struggled a bit against the Atlanta Falcons in week 9, but still managed to throw two TDs. This week, Freeman and the Buccaneers host a Carolina Panthers that appears to have packed it up for the year.

Nate Washington – WR Tennessee
Yes, he was on my list last week. Washington is one Titians player who could really benefit from the arrival of Randy Moss. Washington will start opposite Moss while Kenny Britt gets healthy (which could be multiple weeks). Moss’ presence in Tennessee’s offense will put Washington in more one-on-one situations, much like Wes Welker and Percy Harvin saw. Washington is the best free agent receiver to target this week.

Nate Burleson – WR Detroit
We don’t know who will be throwing Burleson the ball in Detroit, but we know he’ll get his targets. Burleson led the Lions in catches, yards and TDs in week 8 (7 rec., 113 yards, 1 TD). Burleson is healthy and he’s benefiting Calvin Johnson’s double teams. The Lions will have a new QB again, after Matthew Stafford injured his throwing shoulder. But that shouldn’t affect Burleson all that much. During weeks 5 and 6, when Stafford was out, Burleson caught touchdowns in two straight games. Burleson might benefit from a backup quarterback.

Mike Thomas – WR Jacksonville
If you need a one week fill-in WR, Thomas fits the bill. The Jaguars face the worst pass defense in the league in the Houston Texans. The Texans were just torched by San Diego’s Seyi Ajirotiutu in week 9, who scored 2 TDs and had over 100 yards receiving. Thomas could be in line for a nice afternoon in week 10. However, beyond this week, Thomas’ value diminishes (can’t play the Texans every week).

Blair White – WR Indianapolis
After watching Austin Collie get laid out in week 9, it’s pretty clear he won’t be back in time for week 10. Plus, Anthony Gonzalez has been ruled out for the year and that could open the door for White, who has filled in at times this year for Indianapolis. White could be in line for more snaps this week as the Colts host Cincinnati, who can thrown on. With all that said about White, if Jacob Tamme is still available in your league, pick him up first. Tamme was on this list last week and he exploded for 108 yards and a TD in week 9. So start with Tamme then think about White.

Joel Dreessen – TE Houston
The Texans have searched long and hard for a receiver who can take some of the pressure off Andre Johnson. As of week 9, they’re still searching. With that said, Dreessen is emerging as a quality target for QB Matt Schaub. He caught a team-high 5 balls for 66 yards in week 9 and he’s facing a weak pass defense in Jacksonville this week. Think of Dreessen as a one week fill-in guy.

Mike Goodson – RB Carolina
If you’re really hurting at running back, Goodson might be worth a gamble. The Panthers have two injured running backs in DeAngelo Williams (foot) and Jonathan Stewart (concussion). Goodson could be in line for more carries in week 10 against a Tampa Bay team that can be run on.

Chester Taylor – RB Chicago
Mike Martz indicated that Taylor would get more touches, especially around the goal line. In week 9, that statement proved to be true with Taylor scoring a one-yard TD against the Buffalo Bills. What is concerning about Taylor is he carried the ball 10 times for just 13 yards. He’s worth a look if you’re desperate, but don’t expect many points from his yardage. But around the goal line, he appears to be the man now for Chicago.

Week 9: Fantasy football rankings -- QB, RB, WR/TE

QB
1. Aaron Rodgers vs. Dallas
2. Peyton Manning at Philadelphia
3. Philip Rivers at Houston
4. Tom Brady at Cleveland
5. Michael Vick vs. Indianapolis
6. Drew Brees at Carolina
7. Eli Manning at Seattle
8. Joe Flacco vs. Miami
9. Ben Roethlisberger at Cincinnati
10. Matt Ryan vs. Tampa Bay
11. Jay Cutler at Buffalo
12. Matt Schaub vs. San Diego
13. Ryan Fitzpatrick vs. Chicago
14. Josh Freeman at Atlanta
15. Mark Sanchez at Detroit
16. Matthew Stafford vs. NY Jets
17. Jon Kitna at Green Bay
18. Carson Palmer vs. Pittsburgh
19. Brett Favre vs. Arizona
20. Colt McCoy vs. New England

RB
1. Adrian Peterson vs. Arizona
2. Michael Turner vs. Tampa Bay
3. Jamaal Charles at Oakland
4. Ahmad Bradshaw at Seattle
5. Arian Foster vs. San Diego
6. Rashard Mendenhall at Cincinnati
7. LeSean McCoy vs. Indianapolis
8. Darren McFadden vs. Kansas City
9. Peyton Hillis vs. New England
10. LaDainian Tomlinson at Detroit
11. BenJarvus Green-Ellis at Cleveland
12. Ryan Mathews at Houston
13. Matt Forte at Buffalo
14. Thomas Jones at Oakland
15. Jonathan Stewart vs. New Orleans
16. Ray Rice vs. Miami
17. LeGarrette Blount at Atlanta
18. Brandon Jackson vs. Dallas
19. Brandon Jacobs at Seattle
20. Mike Tolbert at Houston
21. Fred Jackson vs. Chicago
22. Shonn Greene at Detroit
23. Cedric Benson vs. Pittsburgh
24. Donald Brown at Philadelphia
25. Darren Sproles at Houston
26. Willis McGahee vs. Miami
27. Chris Ivory at Carolina
28. Marshawn Lynch vs. NY Giants
29. Beanie Wells at Minnesota
30. Jahvid Best vs. NY Jets
31. Danny Woodhead at Cleveland
32. Ronnie Borwn at Baltimore
33. Ricky Williams at Baltimore
34. Michael Bush vs. Kansas City
35. Chester Taylor at Buffalo
36. John Kuhn vs. Dallas
37. Justin Forsett vs. NY Giants
38. Tashard Choice at Green Bay
39. Kevin Smith vs. NY Jets
40. Felix Jones at Green Bay

WR
1. Roddy White vs. Tampa Bay
2. Calvin Johnson NY Jets
3. Anquan Boldin vs. Miami
4. Hakeem Nicks at Seattle
5. Reggie Wayne at Philadelphia
6. Andre Johnson vs. San Diego
7. Miles Austin at Green Bay
8. Greg Jennings vs. Dallas
9. Jeremy Maclin vs. Indianapolis
10. Patrick Crayton at Houston
11. Austin Collie at Philadelphia
12. Dwayne Bowe at Oakland
13. Mike Williams (TB) at Atlanta
14. Marques Colston at Carolina
15. Patrick Crayton at Houston
16. DeSean Jackson vs. Indianapolis
17. Terrell Owens vs. Pittsburgh
18. Larry Fitzgerald at Minnesota
19. Steve Smith (NY) at Seattle
20. Brandon Marshall at Baltimore
21. Mike Wallace at Cincinnati
22. Johnny Knox at Buffalo
23. Steve Johnson vs. Chicago
24. Dez Bryant at Green Bay
25. Tony Gonzalez vs. Tampa Bay
26. Hines Ward at Cincinnati
27. Pierre Garcon at Philadelphia
28. James Jones vs. Dallas
29. Wes Welker at Cleveland
30. Lee Evans vs. Chicago
31. Steve Smith vs. New Orleans
32. Braylon Edwards at Detroit
33. Steve Breaston at Minnesota
34. Mario Manningham at Seattle
35. Jacob Tamme at Philadelphia
36. Derrick Mason vs. Miami
37. Michael Jenkins vs. Tampa Bay
38. Dustin Keller at Detroit
39. Davone Bess at Baltimore
40. Percy Harvin vs. Arizona
41. Santonio Holmes at Detroit
42. Seyi Aijrotutu at Houston
43. Chad Ochocinco vs. Pittsburgh
44. Brandon Tate at Cleveland
45. Jason Whitten at Green Bay
46. Darrius Heyward-Bey vs. Kansas City
47. Visanthe Shiancoe vs. Arizona
48. Jerricho Cotchery at Detroit
49. Mike Williams (SEA) vs. NY Giants
50. Devin Aromashodu at Buffalo

Week 9: Working the Waiver Wire

Finding a solid player on the waiver wire this time of year is virtually impossible. So it's important to target players who have favorable match-ups and plug those players into your fantasy football line-up each week. If your league is like mine, you'll notice there are no RBs that are worth picking up. This problem should take you back to draft day when your strategy should have been to draft RBs. As you'll see in this week's 'Working the Waiver Wire', it's easier to pick-up and plug in WRs week-to-week then it is with RBs. QBs are easier too. At this point in the season, if you're stuck with two weak RBs starting every week, there's nothing you can do about it. So next year, don't be afriad to overdraft on RBs, it might be worth it come week 9. Just some friendly advice as you prepare for next year's draft.   

James Jones – WR Green Bay
With Donald Driver out with a leg injury, Jones gets a great opportunity in week 9. Jones has been inconsistent this season, but faces a great match-up in the Dallas Cowboys this week. Jones must prove this week that he’s worthy of playing or he could find himself on the field less. I expect Jones to have a good showing Sunday and is worth a solid look if you need WR help.

Steve Breaston – WR Arizona
After missing three games because of a knee injury, Breaston returned in week 8 to catch eight balls for 147 yards. Breaston’s return is a huge boost to the Cardinals offense, and look for Arizona’s numbers to improve. With Larry Fitzgerald getting healthier and commanding double teams, Breaston could be in for a solid second half of the season. He’s a WR who can be plugged into your starting line-up each week as a WR3.

Nate Washington – WR Tennessee
I don’t believe the reports that Randy Moss’s arrival is bad news for Washington. I believe it to be quite the opposite in fact. Washington will benefit from Moss, much like Percy Harvin did with the Minnesota Vikings. Washington will be the starter alongside Moss, at least until Kenny Britt returns. However, I don’t expect Britt back anytime soon. Britt is battling a hamstring injury that is likely to keep him out multiple weeks and linger on throughout the season. Washington is a good guy to plug into your line-up after his bye week this week.

Jacob Tamme – TE Indianapolis
Peyton Manning loves his TEs, so it’s easy to put Tamme on this list. With Dallas Clark out for the season, Tamme steps into the role of starting TE for the Colts. Tamme caught six balls for 64 yards and a TD in week 8. Don’t look for him to stretch defenses like Clark could, but certainly expect more goal line targets as he gets more comfortable with Peyton Manning. Tamme is a must add in leagues that require TEs.

Kevin Smith – RB Detroit
It was pretty clear after watching last week’s Lions game against the Washington Redskins, they are a passing team. And who can blame them with Calvin Johnson leading the charge. But the Lions will need to run the ball this season, to both protect Matthew Stafford and help their defense. Smith is the best RB they have to do that. Jahvid Best is a playmaker, but Smith is the RB who can grind out tough yards. He appears to be healthy and looking for more touches. I like him better than Keiland Williams and LaRod Stevens-Howling, who are both getting free agency attention this week.

Josh Freeman – QB Tampa Bay
If you desperately need a bye week fill-in at QB, Freeman is the best option this week. He faces an Atlanta team that gives up a lot of yards and plenty of points. Other options at QB include Mark Sanchez at Detroit, Jason Campbell vs. Kansas City and Colt McCoy vs. New England (McCoy’s a huge gamble, but New England has struggled against the pass at times this season).

Week 8: Fantasy football rankings -- QB, RB, WR/TE

QB
1. Peyton Manning vs. Houston
2. Ben Roethlisberger vs. Tennessee
3. Drew Brees vs. Pittsburgh
4. Philip Rivers vs. Tennessee
5. Aaron Rodgers at NY Jets
6. Tom Brady vs. Minnesota
7. Kyle Orton at San Francisco
8. Matt Schaub at Indianapolis
9. Jon Kitna vs. Jacksonville
10. Matt Cassel vs. Buffalo
11. Carson Palmer vs. Miami
12. Ryan Fitzpatrick at Kansas City
13. Chad Henne at Cincinnati
14. Matthew Stafford vs. Washington
15. Donovan McNabb at Detroit
16. Josh Freeman at Arizona
17. Mark Sanchez at New England
18. David Garrard at Dallas
19. Matt Moore at St. Louis
20. Matt Hasselbeck at Oakland

RB
1. Adrian Peterson at New England
2. Arian Foster at Indianapolis
3. Frank Gore vs. Denver (In London)
4. Chris Johnson at San Diego
5. Rashard Mendenhall at New Orleans
6. Thomas Jones vs. Buffalo
7. Ryan Torain at Detroit
8. Darren McFadden vs. Seattle
9. Steven Jackson vs. Carolina
10. LaDainian Tomlinson vs. Green Bay
11. Maurice Jones-Drew at Dallas
12. Marshawn Lynch at Oakland
13. Jamaal Charles vs. Buffalo
14. Beanie Wells vs. Tampa Bay
15. Felix Jones vs. Jacksonville
16. Cedric Benson vs. Miami
17. Mike Hart vs. Houston
18. Ronnie Brown at Cincinnati
19. Shonn Greene vs. Green Bay
20. DeAngelo Williams at St. Louis
21. LeGarrette Blount at Arizona
22. Jahvid Best vs. Washington
23. BenJarvus Green-Ellis vs. Minnesota
24. Knowshon Moreno vs. San Francisco (in London)
25. Ricky Williams at Cincinnati
26. Jonathan Stewart at St. Louis
27. Mike Tolbert vs. Tennessee
28. Brandon Jackson at NY Jets
29. Fred Jackson at Kansas City
30. Ryan Mathews vs. Tennessee
31. Michael Bush vs. Seattle
32. Cadillac Williams at Arizona
33. Justin Forsett at Oakland
34. Darren Sproles vs. Tennessee
35. Marion Barber vs. Jacksonville
36. Correll Buckhalter vs. San Francisco (in London)
37. Tim Hightower vs. Tampa Bay
38. Chris Ivory vs. Pittsburgh
39. Danny Woodhead vs. Minnesota
40. Kenneth Darby vs. Carolina

WR
1. Reggie Wayne vs. Houston
2. Brandon Marshall at Cincinnati
3. Calvin Johnson vs. Washington
4. Andre Johnson at Indianapolis
5. Dwayne Bowe vs. Buffalo
6. Terrell Owens vs. Miami
7. Hines Ward at New Orleans
8. Dez Bryant vs. Jacksonville
9. Randy Moss at New England
10. Miles Austin vs. Jacksonville
11. Pierre Garcon vs. Houston
12. Brandon Lloyd vs. San Francisco (in London)
13. Greg Jennings at NY Jets
14. Santana Moss at Detroit
15. Marques Colston vs. Pittsburgh
16. Mike Wallace at New Orleans
17. Percy Harvin at New England
18. Kenny Britt at San Diego
19. Steve Johnson at Kansas City
20. Chad Ochocinco vs. Miami
21. Mike Williams at Arizona
22. Davone Bess at Cincinnati
23. Antonio Gates vs. Tennessee
24. Larry Fitzgerald vs. Tampa Bay
25. Braylon Edwards vs. Green Bay
26. Mike Williams at Oakland
27. Lee Evans at Kansas City
28. Deion Branch vs. Minnesota
29. Patrick Crayton vs. Tennessee
30. Roy Williams vs. Jacksonville
31. Steve Smith at St. Louis
32. Jabar Gaffney at San Francisco
33. Steve Smith at St. Louis
34. Wes Welker vs. Minnesota
35. Mike Sims-Walker at Dallas
36. Anthony Gonzalez vs. Houston
37. Santonio Holmes vs. Green Bay
38. Zack Miller vs. Seattle
39. Robert Meachem vs. Pittsburgh
40. Dustin Keller vs. Green Bay
41. Deon Butler at Oakland
42. Lance Moore vs. Pittsburgh
43. James Jones at NY Jets
44. Jason Whitten vs. Jacksonville
45. Danny Amendola vs. Carolina
46. Nate Burleson vs. Washington
47. Anthony Armstrong at Detroit
48. Vernon Davis vs. Denver (in London)
49. David Gettis at St. Louis
50. Buster Davis vs. Tennessee

Week 7: Fantasy football rankings -- QB, RB, WR/TE

QB
1. Drew Brees vs. Cleveland
2. Aaron Rodgers vs. Minnesota
3. Philip Rivers vs. New England
4. Joe Flacco vs. Buffalo
5. Ben Roethlisberger at Miami
6. Kyle Orton vs. Oakland
7. Eli Manning at Dallas
8. Tom Brady at San Diego
9. Matt Cassel vs. Jacksonville
10. Tony Romo vs. NY Giants
11. Jay Cutler vs. Washington
12. Matt Ryan vs. Cincinnati
13. Brett Favre at Green Bay
14. Matt Hasselbeck vs. Arizona
15. Carson Palmer at Atlanta
16. Kevin Kolb at Tennessee
17. Josh Freeman vs. St. Louis
18. Donovan McNabb at Chicago
19. Chad Henne vs. Pittsburgh
20. Sam Bradford at Tampa Bay

RB
1. Chris Johnson vs. Philadelphia
2. Ray Rice vs. Buffalo
3. Adrian Peterson at Green Bay
4. Frank Gore at Carolina
5. Steven Jackson at Tampa Bay
6. Rashard Mendenhall at Miami
7. Michael Turner vs. Cincinnati
8. Peyton Hillis at New Orleans
9. Ahmad Bradshaw at Dallas
10. Knowshon Moreno vs. Oakland
11. Marshawn Lynch vs. Arizona
12. Jamaal Charles vs. Jacksonville
13. Cedric Benson at Atlanta
14. Maurice Jones-Drew at Kansas City
15. Matt Forte vs. Washington
16. DeAngelo Williams vs. San Francisco
17. Thomas Jones vs. Jacksonville
18. LeSean McCoy at Tennessee
19. Chris Ivory vs. Cleveland
20. Ryan Torain at Chicago
21. Michael Bush at Denver
22. Felix Jones vs. NY Giants
23. Ryan Mathews vs. New England
24. Brandon Jacobs at Dallas
25. BenJarvus Green-Ellis at San Diego
26. Beanie Wells at Seattle
27. Justin Forsett vs. Arizona
28. Jonathan Stewart vs. San Francisco
29. Mike Tolbert vs. New England
30. Willis McGahee vs. Buffalo
31. Fred Jackson at Baltimore
32. Ronnie Brown vs. Pittsburgh
33. Ricky Williams vs. Pittsburgh
34. Danny Woodhead at San Diego
35. Tim Hightower at Seattle
36. Cadillac Williams vs. St. Louis
37. Ladell Betts vs. Cleveland
38. Brandon Jackson vs. Minnesota
39. Correll Buckhalter vs. Oakland
40. Darren Sproles vs. New England

WR
1. Randy Moss at Green Bay
2. Roddy White vs. Cincinnati
3. Hakeem Nicks at Dallas
4. Anquan Boldin vs. Buffalo
5. Jeremy Maclin at Tennessee
6. Miles Austin vs. NY Giants
7. Brandon Marshall vs. Pittsburgh
8. Greg Jennings vs. Green Bay 

9. Brandon Lloyd vs. Oakland
10. Mike Wallace at Miami
11. Terrell Owens at Atlanta
12. Dwayne Bowe vs. Jacksonville
13. Percy Harvin at Green Bay
14. Larry Fitzgerald at Seattle
15. Steve Smith (NY) at Dallas
16. Hines Ward at Miami
17. Marques Colston vs. Cleveland
18. Johnny Knox vs. Washington
19. Deion Branch at San Diego
20. Donald Driver vs. Minnesota
21. Robert Meachem vs. Cleveland
22. Wes Welker at San Diego
23. Mike Williams (SEA) vs. Arizona
24. Steve Smith (CAR) vs. San Francisco
25. Mike Williams (TB) vs. St. Louis
26. Santana Moss at Chicago
27. Jabar Gaffney vs. Oakland
28. Lance Moore vs. Cleveland
29. Roy Williams vs. NY Giants
30. Patrick Crayton vs. New England
31. Derrick Mason vs. Buffalo
32. Kenny Britt vs. Philadelphia
33. Louis Murphy at Denver
34. Tony Gonzalez vs. Cincinnati
35. Jason Avant at Tennessee
36. Mario Manningham at Dallas
37. Aaron Hernandez at San Diego
38. Vernon Davis at Carolina
39. Lee Evans at Baltimore
40. Davone Bess vs. Pittsburgh
41. Heath Miller at Miami
42. Steve Johnson at Baltimore
43. Dex Bryant vs. NY Giants
44. Zack Miller at Denver
45. Anthony Armstrong at Chicago
46. Danny Amendola at Tampa Bay
47. Demaryius Thomas vs. Oakland
48. Tony Moeaki vs. Jacksonville
49. Sammie Stroughter vs. St. Louis
50. Nate Washington vs. Philadelphia

Week 7: Working the waiver wire

We’ve reached the point in the fantasy football season where it’s perfectly fine to shift into rent-a-player mode. You know, the weekly free agent pick-up who will only play one week for your team before getting shipped back to anonymity. Of course this strategy doesn’t work if you’re paying for each free agent pick-up. Regardless, here’s a list of players you should check out

Matt Cassel – QB Kansas City
A week after torching the Houston Texans for 3 TDs, Cassel is headed for another favorable match-up this week when the Chiefs host the Jacksonville Jaguars. The Jags rank near the bottom of the league against the pass and Kansas City is a difficult place to play. In fact, Cassel makes a pretty good play the next three weeks as the Chiefs began a three-game stretch where they host Jacksonville and Buffalo and then travel to Oakland.

Danny Woodhead – RB New England
Somewhere Bill Belichick is laughing at us. All of us fantasy football players trying to figure out his gameday strategy. It certainly appeared that BenJarvus Green-Ellis would be the lead RB after Laurence Maroney got shipped west. After week 6, it’s clear that Woodhead will continue to see time in New England’s backfield, perhaps even more than Green-Ellis. Woodhead finished with more than 100 yards total offense against the Baltimore Ravens last week, which included a heavier workload in the second half. That tells me the Patriots trust him in crucial situations. If you’re desperately seeking a RB to fill out your roster, Woodhead may be the best option.

Chris Ivory – RB New Orleans
With Pierre Thomas and Reggie Bush both sidelined with injuries, Ivory made a name for himself running for 158 yards against Tampa Bay on Sunday. Ivory is the Saints best option right now with Thomas and Bush out. He’s faster than Ladell Betts and Julius Jones, plus he’s got the big play potential the Saints offense has lacked at times this year. Ivory’s performance in week 6 likely earned him more touches this season, but when Thomas and Bush return, his role will be less clear. He’s got another favorable match-up this week against the Cleveland Browns, but don’t expect too much after that. With a game against Pittsburgh in week 8 and the eventual return of the Saints wounded RBs, Ivory’s days as ‘the guy’ in New Orleans’ backfield may be numbered – at least for this season.      

James Starks – RB Green Bay
I will admit that putting Starks on this list is a stretch at this point, but it might be a risk worth taking. It’s no secret the Green Bay Packers are having trouble running the ball. Brandon Jackson and John Kuhn are barely average and the team's inability to run the ball is having a major impact on the entire Packers offense. Starks is now eligible to play after spending the first six weeks on the PUP list. The Packers will give him a chance; that I can promise you. However, what he does with that opportunity remains to be seen, thus making him a very risky pick right now. Starks has not played at all this season, including during the preseason due to a hamstring injury. Picking him up now would be the ultimate roll of the dice, but it might just pay off (Or it might not. I’d avoid him for now. Scout him).   

Mike Williams – WR Seattle
The departure of Deion Branch in Seattle has opened the door back up for Williams. A hot waiver pick up after week one, Williams landed back on the free agent market after poor performances in weeks 2 thru 5. In week 6, Williams was targeted 14 times by Matt Hasselbeck, catching 10 of those balls for 123 yards. Williams is an excellent option the next two weeks with Arizona and Oakland on the schedule. Plus, Seattle’s schedule the rest of the way has several favorable match-ups for Williams. If you’re going to grab one Seattle receiver, make sure it’s Williams (avoid Deon Butler and Golden Tate).

Deion Branch – WR New England
When New England traded Randy Moss to Minnesota many thought the Patriots were giving up on the season. However, with a win over Baltimore on Sunday and Branch having a big game, people have torn up the Pats' obituary. The Brady to Branch connection tormented a very good Ravens pass defense for 98 yards on nine catches, including a TD. Despite another tough match-up this week against the Chargers in San Diego, Branch is a good player to pick-up. Being Brady’s go-to guy is always going to be worth something.

Week 6: Good calls, bad calls

Now I know how Peter King feels. Nearly every prediction you make, the opposite happens. This week, I played the role of King and now I have fantasy football owners lining up to kick me in the Peter. Here are some of the good calls from week 6, and the absolutely atrocious predictions that went down harder than Jay Cutler on third down. Sports cliché alert: I’m working to get better every week.

Good Calls:

Tony Romo – QB Dallas
The Vikings had a depleted secondary filled with undersized DBs heading into Sunday’s game with Dallas. So it wasn’t a surprise to see Romo, who I had ranked QB #2, put up solid numbers. His 220 yards passing wasn’t spectacular, but his 3 TDs sure were nice for Romo owners. Romo should be considered a top 10 QB the rest of the season, with several favorable match-ups still on the schedule.

Roy Williams – WR Dallas
With three CBs under 5’9” tall, Roy Williams seemed like a good play to me against the Vikings. I thought so highly of the 6’3” WR that I put him at #15 on my weekly WR rankings list. ESPN ranked him at #40. Considering how often the Cowboys are throwing the ball this year, Williams is a very solid WR3 in most leagues, maybe even WR2.

Ryan Torain - RB Washington
After watching Torain run on Sunday night, it’s hard to believe he started the season on the Redskins practice squad. The big bodied RB ripped off 10 yard runs like it was nothing against the Indianapolis Colts. Torain showed he can break tackles and find the red zone. His 100 yards and 2 TDs were a big reward to fantasy football owners who started him. I had him listed as the #16 ranked RB this week and have repeatedly mentioned him on this blog. I’m not saying Torain is the next superstar, but he is a nice guy to have in your starting line-up right now.

Joseph Addai – RB Indianapolis
Once it was clear that Addai would play Sunday night against Washington, I told Addai owners to start him. He’s too valuable to the Colts not to be on the field and he responded with 128 yards rushing and a TD. The Colts are on bye this week, which will allow Addai to get healthy. He is the best option in the Colts backfield and they know it, you should too.

Bad Calls:

DeSean Jackson – WR Philadelphia
Putting Jackson outside of the top 20 on the week 6 WR rankings seemed like a logical thing (I had him ranked as the #22 WR in week 6). He was coming off two mediocre starts and looked like a guy who had zero chemistry with Kevin Kolb. But Jackson’s 2 TDs on Sunday reminded us that top-flight WRs should always be in play. With that said, Jackson is expected to miss this Sunday’s game against Tennessee because of lingering concussion symptoms. After that Philadelphia is on a bye, but in week 9, look for Jackson to be in the top 10 with a very good match-up against Indianapolis.

Randy Moss – WR New England
It’s the closest thing to a sure thing in pro football, Moss ripping the Cowboys (I had Moss ranked #1 WR in week 6). Well, Dallas wasn’t going to let it happen in week 6, using two defenders on Moss the entire game. I predicted 2 TDs for Moss, instead he tallied just 55 yards on 5 catches.

Greg Jennings – WR Green Bay
The Packers were very public last week about their intention to get Jennings more involved in the offense. So far this year, Jennings has been average. Before week 6, Jennings had 14 catches in five games, including a real dry spell where caught just two balls in each of the last three games. Just when fantasy football owners were ready to banish Jennings to the bench (some did), he exploded for 133 yards on 6 catches, including an 86 yard TD. Let’s make sure to keep Jennings in the lineup next time (I had Jennings ranked #19 WR in week 6).

Kevin Kolb – QB Philadelphia
I didn’t even have Kolb ranked in my top 20 for QBs. What does he do? Promptly torches the Atlanta Falcons for 326 yards and 3 TDs. Kolb looks to be in line for another start in week 7 with Michael Vick still nursing a rib/chest injury. This week’s opponent for the Eagles is the Tennessee Titians. Don’t expect Kolb to repeat his week 6 performance, but then again, that’s what I thought last week.

Week 6: Fantasy football rankings -- QB, RB, WR/TE

QB
1. Philip Rivers at St. Louis
2. Tony Romo at Minnesota
3. Eli Manning vs. Detroit
4. Peyton Manning at Washington
5. Jay Cutler vs. Seattle
6. Kyle Orton vs. NY Jets
7. Drew Brees at Tampa Bay
8. Brett Favre vs. Dallas
9. Aaron Rodgers vs. Miami
10. Ben Roelisberger vs. Cleveland
11. Matt Schaub vs. Kansas City
12. Joe Flacco at New England
13. Matt Cassell at Houston
14. Tom Brady vs. Baltimore
15. Vince Young at Jacksonville
16. Mark Sanchez at Denver
17. Matt Ryan at Philadelphia
18. Josh Freeman vs. New Orleans
19. Donovan McNabb vs. Indianapolis
20. Alex Smith vs. Oakland

RB
1. Chris Johnson at Jacksonville
2. Frank Gore vs. Oakland
3. Adrian Peterson vs. Dallas
4. Ahmad Bradshaw vs. Detroit
5. Rashard Mendenhall vs. Cleveland
6. Michael Turner at Philadelphia
7. Maurice Jones-Drew vs. Tennessee
8. LeSean McCoy vs. Atlanta
9. LaDainian Tomlinson at Denver
10. Steven Jackson vs. San Diego
11. Ray Rice at New Engalnd
12. Arian Foster vs. Kansas City
13. Jamaal Charles at Houston
14. Ryan Mathews at St. Louis
15. Matt Forte vs. Seattle
16. Ryan Torian vs. Indianapolis
17. Shonn Greene at Denver
18. Michael Bush at San Francisco
19. Ronnie Brown at Green Bay
20. Jahvid Best at NY Giants
21. Marshawn Lynch at Chicago
22. Ricky Williams at Green Bay
23. Joseph Addai at Washington
24. Felix Jones at Minnesota
25. Peyton Hillis at Pittsburgh
26. Mike Tolbert at St. Louis
27. BenJarvus Green-Ellis vs. Baltimore
28. Brandon Jackson vs. Miami
29. Brandon Jacobs vs. Detroit
30. Willis McGahee at New England
31. Knowshon Moreno vs. NY Jets
32. Chris Ivory at Tampa Bay
33. Earnest Graham vs. New Orleans
34. Marion Barber at Minnesota
35. Darren Sproles at St. Louis
36. Jason Snelling at Philadelphia
37. Thomas Jones at Houston
38. John Kuhn vs. Miami
39. Ladell Betts at Tampa Bay
40. Cadillac Williams vs. New Orleans

WR/TE
1. Randy Moss vs. Dallas
2. Reggie Wayne at Washington
3. Hakeem Nicks vs. Detroit
4. Miles Austin at Minnesota
5. Roddy White at Philadelphia
6. Malcom Floyd at St. Louis
7. Brandon Lloyd vs. NY Jets
8. Antonio Gates at St. Louis
9. Andre Johnson vs. Kansas City
10. Anquan Boldin at New England
11. Percy Harvin vs. Dallas
12. Brandon Marshall at Green Bay
13. Wes Welker vs. Baltimore
14. Roy Williams at Minnesota
15. Calvin Johnson at NY Giants
16. Steve Smith (NY) vs. Detroit
17. Kenny Britt at Jacksonville
18. Dallas Clark at Washington
19. Greg Jennings vs. Miami
20. Austin Collie at Washington
21. Mike Wallace vs. Cleveland
22. DeSean Jackson vs. Atlanta
23. Hines Ward vs. Cleveland
24. Eddie Royal vs. NY Jets
25. Donald Driver vs. Miami
26. Jeremy Maclin vs. Atlanta
27. Zack Miller at San Francisco
28. Johnny Knox vs. Seattle
29. Michael Crabtree vs. Oakland
30. Santana Moss vs. Indianapolis
31. Dustin Keller at Denver
32. Marques Colston at Tampa Bay
33. Jabar Gaffney vs. NY Jets
34. Pierre Garcon at Washington
35. Braylon Edwards at Denver
36. Davone Bess at Green Bay
37. Louis Murphy at San Francisco
38. Dwayne Bowe at Houston
39. Danny Amendola vs. Dan Diego
40. Nate Washington at Jacksonville
41. Lance Moore at Tampa Bay
42. Chris Chambers at Houston
43. Brandon Tate vs. Baltimore
44. Robert Meachem at Tampa Bay
45. Vernon Davis vs. Oakland
46. Santonio Holmes at Denver
47. Mike Williams (TB) vs. New Orleans
48. Mike Sims-Walker vs. Tennessee
49. Brandon Gibson vs. San Diego
50. Aaron Hernandez vs. Baltimore

Week 6: Working the waiver wire

With bye weeks and injuries, it’s getting harder to put a consistent fantasy football roster together each week. Fortunately, there are several quality pick-ups this week that can help your team in a pinch. At this point in the season you’re not likely to find an every week starter on the waiver wire, but you can find weekly fill-ins. Here’s a list of players that should be good replacements in week 6.

Vince Young – QB Tennessee
There never seems to be an appetite for Young until you really need a QB. This week is a perfect match-up for Young, a Monday night game against the Jacksonville Jaguars. The Jags are near the bottom of the league when it comes to pass defense. With Buffalo, Cincinnati, Carolina and Arizona all on bye this week, I doubt there’s much need for a bye week fill-in. But Young could be a good replacement for Aaron Rodgers, if he’s out, or Jay Cutler, who’s returning from injury.

Mike Hart – RB Indianapolis
Anyone who plays a prominent role in the Indianapolis Colts offense should garner attention. With Joseph Addai and Donald Brown both nursing injuries, Hart could be the Colts feature RB on Sunday against the Washington Redskins. Hart is a versatile RB who works well in the Colts offense. If Addai and Brown are both out for an extended period of time, Hart should be considered an every week starter for your fantasy football team.

Kenny Britt – WR Tennessee
Three TDs in three games will land you on virtually every waiver wire list. Britt has been Vince Young’s favorite red zone target of late, and his match-up this week could yield more success. Britt has disappointed a lot of fantasy football owners during his young career, but now he appears ready to contribute. Britt is a good play this week against Jacksonville and should be considered for your starting line-up.

Brandon Gibson – WR St. Louis
With Mark Clayton done for the year, Gibson could be the guy to step into the starting WR role. With Danny Amendola working the underneath routes, Gibson could be the guy to stretch the field. Clayton was having a solid season before tearing up his knee. The young Gibson could grow-up fast in this new Rams offense. (For the record, Amendola is the better pick-up of the two WRs, but I’ve already suggested you pick him up in previous posts.)

Steve Johnson – WR Buffalo
The guy with the ordinary name has been extraordinary the past three weeks. Johnson has four TDs in his last three games including 2 TDs against the Jacksonville Jaguars on Sunday. Johnson is clearly QB Ryan Fitzpatrick’s favorite target in Buffalo, and should be picked up. I expect Buffalo to throw the ball a lot this year, considering how bad they are. The Bills are on a bye this week, but if you need a WR going forward the third year WR is a great option.

James Jones – WR Green Bay
With TE Jermichael Finley now likely out 8-10 weeks with a bum knee, Jones could be the guy who reaps the benefits. The Packers do not have a solid back-up TE on their roster and I expect them to use 3 and 4 WRs more often. Aaron Rodgers targeted Jones eight times on Sunday against the Washington Redskins and I expect his role to increase. Give Jones a solid look if you need a WR.

Week 5: Good calls, bad calls

This week I didn’t make my usual list of predictions, instead I opted to let my rankings do the talking. There were some significant missteps on my part, but also some pretty good calls. Here’s a recap of the ‘good calls, bad calls’ of week 5.

Good Calls:

Shaun Hill – QB Detroit
I put Hill in the top 10 (QB #10) expecting him to have a very good game against the St. Louis Rams. Hill did not let me down throwing for 227 yards and 3 TDs. This might be the last we hear from Hill, as Matthew Stafford may be ready to return after the Lions bye in week 8. Hill will almost certainly start against the NY Giants this week in the Meadowlands. But if you haven’t picked him up by now, don’t waste your time.

Brett Favre – QB Minnesota
Not many people had Favre as high as I did in this week’s rankings (QB #11). Favre looked terrible in the first half on Monday night, but showed much more aggressiveness in the second half. Favre finished the night with 264 yards passing and 3 TDs. The arrival of Randy Moss will help Favre tremendously. Moss gives Favre a deep threat, and Moss opens up the middle of the field for Percy Harvin. Favre should now be considered a serviceable fantasy football starting QB each week.

Mark Sanchez – QB NY Jets
After three consecutive weeks of two or more TD passes, Sanchez (QB #17) struggled on Monday night against the Minnesota Vikings. Sanchez was held without a TD pass and managed just 191 yards on 44 passing attempts. Sanchez and the Jets travel to Denver this week where they should be able to run the ball against a weak Broncos run defense. Don’t look for Sanchez to be the type of QB to give you multiple TDs each week.

Felix Jones – RB Dallas
Some fantasy football prognosticators continue to put Marion Barber ahead of Jones, but I didn’t. The Cowboys found out this weekend that Jones is a much better runner than Barber and expect Jones to get more of the carries going forward.

Brandon Lloyd – WR Denver
I have told countless number of people to pick-up, or keep Lloyd on their team. After years of knocking around from team-to-team, Lloyd has proven to be a great WR for Denver. His 135 yards and 2 TDs against the Baltimore Ravens should signal to all fantasy football owners that Lloyd is an every week starter. If you're still on the fence about Lloyd, consider this, Orton targeted him 14 times on Sunday. Yes, he's going to be big the rest of the season.    

Bad Calls:

Peyton Manning / Aaron Rodgers / Matt Schaub
I lumped these three guys together because they made up 60% of my top 5 QBs for the week. Together they accounted for one TD (Rodgers 5-yard TD pass to Donald Lee). The trio had good match-ups, but struggled to find the end zone. These guys will all be back in the top 5 again, we’ll call this week an anomaly.

Kyle Orton – QB Denver
A week after I proclaimed Orton a weekly top 10 QB, I put him at #15 because he was facing the Baltimore Ravens. Orton proved me wrong once again throwing for 314 yards and 2 TDs. I promise you, unless Orton has an injury, he will be in my top 10 every week.     

Ryan Mathews – RB San Diego
I have been wrong about Mathews from the day I started prepping my first cheatsheet. Mathews was supposed to be the guy in San Diego when LaDainian Tomlinson left. Five games into the season, and Mathews is still fighting to make a name for himself. I had him ranked in the top 10 (RB #10) this week, but again he failed to produce much. His 59 yards rushing led the team, but his 9 carries were second on the team behind Mike Tolbert (12 carries). I still believe Mathews will display flashes of greatness yet this year, but its taken longer than his fantasy football owners would have hoped.