Re: Fantasy Football News 2007
Week 5 Rankings Update
The rankings below were updated Friday night. Starters such as Addai and Henry, who are game-time decisions, are ranked as if they will start. Their backups have notes about their rank if the starters sit. The rest of the column was posted Wednesday morning.
Two weeks is a long time in fantasy football; just ask
Ronnie Brown owners. It has taken that long for Brown to go from
Jesse Chatman's tag team partner to the number one fantasy back in the league. It's coming a year late, but the
Ronnie Brown we've all been waiting for has arrived.
I can already see the emails coming ? Brown only dominated against the Jets and the Raiders. But that's what multi-purpose backs do; they crush the weaklings. 418 total yards and four scores in two weeks is a statement. Cam Cameron, unlike Brown's former coordinators, knows how to use Brown's impressive skills in the passing game. Brown hasn't gained less than 36 receiving yards in a game this season and should set a career high in receiving yardage this week.
Cameron has stated that Brown is hitting the hole more decisively and he's running over defenders at the end of runs. He doesn't have breakaway speed, but there just aren't many backs that can excel in receiving and short-yardage like Brown.
There are still some concerns surrounding Brown, primarily Miami's poor offense and a fantasy playoff schedule that includes Baltimore and New England. I wouldn't consider selling high on Brown until mid-November when the playoffs get closer. Until then, enjoy the ride and email last year's Ronnie owner to rub it in.
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Week 5 Quarterbacks[/SIZE]
<TABLE width="100%"><TBODY><TR class=TableTopRed><TD>Rank</TD><TD>Player Name</TD><TD>Opponent</TD><TD>Notes</TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>1</TD><TD>Tom Brady</TD><TD>vs. CLE</TD><TD></TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>2</TD><TD>Tony Romo</TD><TD>at BUF</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>3</TD><TD>Jon Kitna</TD><TD>at WAS</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>4</TD><TD>Peyton Manning</TD><TD>vs. TB</TD><TD>May not have Harrison</TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>5</TD><TD>Eli Manning</TD><TD>vs. NYJ</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>6</TD><TD>Brett Favre</TD><TD>vs. CHI</TD><TD></TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>7</TD><TD>Vince Young</TD><TD>vs. ATL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>8</TD><TD>Jay Cutler</TD><TD>vs. SD</TD><TD>Probable(ankle)</TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>9</TD><TD>Matt Hasselbeck</TD><TD>at PIT</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>10</TD><TD>Ben Roethlisberger</TD><TD>vs. SEA</TD><TD>Probable(foot)</TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>11</TD><TD>Jason Campbell</TD><TD>vs. DET</TD><TD>No Santana Moss</TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>12</TD><TD>Drew Brees</TD><TD>vs. CAR</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>13</TD><TD>Matt Schaub</TD><TD>vs. MIA</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>14</TD><TD>Trent Green</TD><TD>at HOU</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>15</TD><TD>Chad Pennington</TD><TD>at NYG</TD><TD></TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>16</TD><TD>Jeff Garcia</TD><TD>at IND</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>17</TD><TD>David Carr</TD><TD>at NO</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>18</TD><TD>Gus Frerotte</TD><TD>vs. ARZ</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>19</TD><TD>Joey Harrington</TD><TD>at TEN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>20</TD><TD>David Garrard</TD><TD>at KC</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>21</TD><TD>Matt Leinart</TD><TD>at STL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>22</TD><TD>Steve McNair</TD><TD>at SF</TD><TD></TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>23</TD><TD>Philip Rivers</TD><TD>at DEN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>24</TD><TD>Damon Huard</TD><TD>vs. JAC</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>25</TD><TD>Derek Anderson</TD><TD>at NE</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>26</TD><TD>Trent Edwards</TD><TD>vs. DAL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>27</TD><TD>Brian Griese</TD><TD>at GB</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>28</TD><TD>Trent Dilfer</TD><TD>vs. BAL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>29</TD><TD>Kurt Warner</TD><TD>at STL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
</TBODY></TABLE>
Note:For projections of all our ranked players, head to
Season Pass. We help you make decisions at your flex positions, in addition to Evan Silva's Running Back report, Jason Matheny's IDP Nation, and tons of unique stat features.
Check it out.
QB Notes: Jay Cutler is like
Jason Campbell, only better. He makes a handful of unbelievable throws a week, but still isn't accurate enough to be a top-shelf NFL starter. The yards are there for fantasy leaguers and the touchdowns should follow. His aggressive style should do well this week against San Diego's secondary, whether
Javon Walker is healthy or not. ? I went back to watch
Joey Harrington's last two games and was amazed at the protection he was getting. Carolina and Houston got absolutely no pass rush and Harrington happily got rid of the ball quickly into tight spots. He still can't go deep, but Bobby Petrino is making this passing game competent. This week is a great test for Harrington. If Atlanta can block Tennessee's line, they can block anyone.
Buffalo is very excited about
Trent Edwards, and with good reason. He had an ideal matchup for his first start against the Jets, but played composed for a rookie.
Impressing Mike Tanier is a great sign. Fantasy Nation can scout Edwards on Monday Night Football, and deep keeper league owners should think about picking him up. ?
Philip Rivers isn't an option against the Denver pass defense. ? Tampa's defense has been a revelation this season. We'll see how far they've come this week against the Colts. I expect the Bucs to limit big plays, if nothing else.
If the Jets couldn't stop
Trent Edwards and
Trent Green, they aren't likely to slow down
Eli Manning. ? It's a strong week to use
Vince Young. The Falcons don't really do anything that well on defense and there should be big plays available in the passing game. ? It was difficult to rank quarterbacks after the top-12 this week.
David Carr is a reasonable option just because the Saints are so poor.
Matt Schaub may not light up the scoreboard just because Houston will focus on the running game.
Drew Brees has a decent chance to bounce back because Carolina's defense is not rushing the passer well.
Gus Frerotte is passable, but I wouldn't bang your head against the wall trying to pick him up.
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Week 5 Running Backs[/SIZE]
<TABLE width="100%"><TBODY><TR class=TableTopRed><TD>Rank</TD><TD>Player Name</TD><TD>Opponent</TD><TD>Notes</TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>1</TD><TD>LaDainian Tomlinson</TD><TD>at DEN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>2</TD><TD>Willie Parker</TD><TD>vs. SEA</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>3</TD><TD>Ronnie Brown</TD><TD>at HOU</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>4</TD><TD>Clinton Portis</TD><TD>vs. DET</TD><TD></TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>5</TD><TD>Travis Henry</TD><TD>vs. SD</TD><TD>Practiced. Game-time decision, but looks like he'll play</TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>6</TD><TD>Joseph Addai</TD><TD>vs. TB</TD><TD>Expected to sit, but game-time decision</TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>7</TD><TD>Willis McGahee</TD><TD>at SF</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>8</TD><TD>Shaun Alexander</TD><TD>at PIT</TD><TD></TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>9</TD><TD>Edgerrin James</TD><TD>at STL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>10</TD><TD>Frank Gore</TD><TD>vs. BAL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>11</TD><TD>Larry Johnson</TD><TD>vs. JAC</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>12</TD><TD>Laurence Maroney</TD><TD>vs. CLE</TD><TD>Game-time decision</TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>13</TD><TD>Thomas Jones</TD><TD>at NYG</TD><TD></TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>14</TD><TD>Reggie Bush</TD><TD>vs. CAR</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>15</TD><TD>Brandon Jacobs</TD><TD>vs. NYJ</TD><TD>Probable(knee)</TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>16</TD><TD>Ron Dayne</TD><TD>vs. MIA</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>17</TD><TD>Marshawn Lynch</TD><TD>vs. DAL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>18</TD><TD>Marion Barber</TD><TD>at BUF</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>19</TD><TD>LenDale White</TD><TD>vs. ATL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>20</TD><TD>Kevin Jones</TD><TD>at WAS</TD><TD>Workload Rising</TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>21</TD><TD>Julius Jones</TD><TD>at BUF</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>22</TD><TD>DeShaun Foster</TD><TD>at NO</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>23</TD><TD>Cedric Benson</TD><TD>at GB</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>24</TD><TD>Brian Leonard</TD><TD>vs. ARZ</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>25</TD><TD>Maurice Jones-Drew</TD><TD>at KC</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>26</TD><TD>Michael Pittman</TD><TD>at IND</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>27</TD><TD>Warrick Dunn</TD><TD>at TEN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>28</TD><TD>Derrick Ward</TD><TD>vs. NYJ</TD><TD>Probable(ankle)</TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>29</TD><TD>Ladell Betts</TD><TD>vs. DET</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>30</TD><TD>Jamal Lewis</TD><TD>at NE</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>31</TD><TD>Fred Taylor</TD><TD>at KC</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>32</TD><TD>Sammy Morris</TD><TD>vs. CLE</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>33</TD><TD>Earnest Graham</TD><TD>at IND</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>34</TD><TD>DeAngelo Williams</TD><TD>at NO</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>35</TD><TD>Aaron Stecker</TD><TD>vs. CAR</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>36</TD><TD>Chris Brown</TD><TD>vs. ATL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>37</TD><TD>Leon Washington</TD><TD>at NYG</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>38</TD><TD>Selvin Young</TD><TD>vs. SD</TD><TD>Would be ranked 15 if starts</TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>39</TD><TD>Jerious Norwood</TD><TD>at TEN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>40</TD><TD>Kenton Keith</TD><TD>vs. TB</TD><TD>Would rank 18 if he starts</TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>41</TD><TD>Tatum Bell</TD><TD>at WAS</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>42</TD><TD>DeShawn Wynn</TD><TD>vs. CHI</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>43</TD><TD>Adrian Peterson</TD><TD>at GB</TD><TD>Probable(calf)</TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>44</TD><TD>Michael Turner</TD><TD>at DEN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>45</TD><TD>Najeh Davenport</TD><TD>vs. SEA</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>46</TD><TD>Musa Smith</TD><TD>at SF</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>47</TD><TD>Vernand Morency</TD><TD>vs. CHI</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>48</TD><TD>Pierre Thomas</TD><TD>vs. CAR</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>49</TD><TD>Brandon Jackson</TD><TD>vs. CHI</TD><TD>Questionable(shin splints)</TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>50</TD><TD>Ryan Grant</TD><TD>vs. CHI</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
</TBODY></TABLE>
RB Notes: Joseph Addai's status is uncertain this week, although he was seen standing and laughing on the sideline late in last week's win. Tony Dungy says Addai is playing quicker this season, and he appears to have lost some weight. He doesn't break huge plays, but he made Denver defenders look silly last week with an array of moves in the open field. If Addai somehow sits out,
Kenton Keith is a top-15 option. Defenses make it too easy on Colts running backs, and Keith also played well in an 80-yard effort against Denver. ? Carolina's revamped running game is having success with a zone-blocking scheme, just like in Oakland.
DeShaun Foster is quietly playing improved football, averaging over five yards-per-carry and breaking more tackles than we've seen.
DeAngelo Williams owners should be concerned that Foster is seeing the same amount of pass targets as Foster. Williams may turn this into a committee by the end of the year, but Foster is the lead back and better option right now.
Denver's rush defense is a mess right now. They made wholesale changes in Week 4 and it looked like a panic move. This is the perfect matchup for Norv Turner and LT2 this week. They should be relentless attacking Denver's soft middle. ? It's easy to see why Mike Shanahan talks so dreamily of
Selvin Young. He is a tackle-breaking machine, and will stay involved in the offense even if
Travis Henry is healthy. Henry looks unlikely to play 16 games, so Young owners have a great lottery ticket. ? It will be interesting to see how Jon Gruden divides the carries this week. I expect Tampa to run in high volume after the Colts defense showed signs of their 2006 problems last week. Losing
Rob Morris and possibly
Bob Sanders will hurt.
Ahman Green looks like a game-time decision. With Miami's defense giving up 200 yards-per-game, whoever starts for Houston will be a good RB2 option. We'd rank Dayne at the same spot as Green if he starts. ? Sean Payton's
recent comments indicate that
Aaron Stecker may not be the answer that many
Deuce McAllister fans were hoping for. ?
Brandon Jacobs looks to be on track to start this week after practicing fully Wednesday. Even if the touches are split with
Derrick Ward, Jacobs will get the short-yardage carries against a sagging Jets defense. Ward remains a decent option, similar to backs like
Julius Jones and
Kevin Jones who get less carries than average. It's the first week I'd consider using
Kevin Jones, as he looks likely to top 15 touches.
LenDale White didn't practice Wednesday, so keep an eye on him. ? Kansas City's revived defense will be no pushover for
Maurice Jones-Drew and
Fred Taylor, who are looking like shaky plays.
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Week 5 Wide Receivers[/SIZE]
<TABLE width="100%"><TBODY><TR class=TableTopRed><TD>Rank</TD><TD>Player Name</TD><TD>Opponent</TD><TD>Notes</TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>1</TD><TD>Randy Moss</TD><TD>vs. CLE</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>2</TD><TD>Terrell Owens</TD><TD>at BUF</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>3</TD><TD>Reggie Wayne</TD><TD>vs. TB</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>4</TD><TD>Roy Williams</TD><TD>at WAS</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>5</TD><TD>Steve Smith</TD><TD>at NO</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>6</TD><TD>Larry Fitzgerald</TD><TD>at STL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>7</TD><TD>Plaxico Burress</TD><TD>vs. NYJ</TD><TD>Questionable(ankle)</TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>8</TD><TD>Donald Driver</TD><TD>vs. CHI</TD><TD>Probable(toe)</TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>9</TD><TD>Marvin Harrison</TD><TD>vs. TB</TD><TD>Not expected to start</TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>10</TD><TD>Laveranues Coles</TD><TD>at NYG</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>11</TD><TD>Jerricho Cotchery</TD><TD>at NYG</TD><TD></TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>12</TD><TD>Torry Holt</TD><TD>vs. ARZ</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>13</TD><TD>Deion Branch</TD><TD>at PIT</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>14</TD><TD>Marques Colston</TD><TD>vs. CAR</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>15</TD><TD>Brandon Marshall</TD><TD>vs. SD</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>16</TD><TD>Santonio Holmes</TD><TD>vs. SEA</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>17</TD><TD>Bernard Berrian</TD><TD>at GB</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>18</TD><TD>Chris Chambers</TD><TD>at HOU</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>19</TD><TD>Wes Welker</TD><TD>vs. CLE</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>20</TD><TD>Braylon Edwards</TD><TD>at NE</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>21</TD><TD>Lee Evans</TD><TD>vs. DAL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>22</TD><TD>Patrick Crayton</TD><TD>at BUF</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>23</TD><TD>Joey Galloway</TD><TD>at IND</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>24</TD><TD>Roddy White</TD><TD>at TEN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>25</TD><TD>Greg Jennings</TD><TD>vs. CHI</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>26</TD><TD>Shaun McDonald</TD><TD>at WAS</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>27</TD><TD>Mike Furrey</TD><TD>at WAS</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>28</TD><TD>James Jones</TD><TD>vs. CHI</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>29</TD><TD>Dwayne Bowe</TD><TD>vs. JAC</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>30</TD><TD>Brandon Jones</TD><TD>vs. ATL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>31</TD><TD>Calvin Johnson</TD><TD>at WAS</TD><TD>Questionable(back)</TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>32</TD><TD>Andre' Davis</TD><TD>vs. MIA</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>33</TD><TD>Bobby Engram</TD><TD>at PIT</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>34</TD><TD>Amani Toomer</TD><TD>vs. NYJ</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>35</TD><TD>Vincent Jackson</TD><TD>at DEN</TD><TD>Probable(back)</TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>36</TD><TD>Darrell Jackson</TD><TD>vs. BAL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>37</TD><TD>Derrick Mason</TD><TD>at SF</TD><TD>Game-time decision</TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>38</TD><TD>Mark Clayton</TD><TD>at SF</TD><TD>Would rise if Mason is out</TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>39</TD><TD>Marty Booker</TD><TD>at HOU</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>40</TD><TD>Drew Bennett</TD><TD>vs. ARZ</TD><TD></TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>41</TD><TD>Bryant Johnson</TD><TD>at STL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>42</TD><TD>Demetrius Williams</TD><TD>at SF</TD><TD>Would rise if Mason is out</TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>43</TD><TD>Antwaan Randle El</TD><TD>vs. DET</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>44</TD><TD>Nate Burleson</TD><TD>at PIT</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>45</TD><TD>Nate Washington</TD><TD>vs. SEA</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>46</TD><TD>Muhsin Muhammad</TD><TD>at GB</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>47</TD><TD>Michael Jenkins</TD><TD>at TEN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>48</TD><TD>Joe Jurevicius</TD><TD>at NE</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>49</TD><TD>Ike Hilliard</TD><TD>at IND</TD><TD>Questionable(ankle)</TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>50</TD><TD>Roydell Williams</TD><TD>vs. ATL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>51</TD><TD>Donte' Stallworth</TD><TD>vs. CLE</TD><TD></TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>52</TD><TD>Dennis Northcutt</TD><TD>at KC</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
</TBODY></TABLE>
WR Notes: Javon Walker isn't sure whether he'll play this week, so he's off the rankings for now. Look for
Brandon Marshall to step up with a solid game against a Chargers secondary that is prone to giving up big plays. ?
Michael Jenkins has caught six passes in each of the last two weeks. He's made a number of leaping grabs lately, and has passed
Joe Horn in terms of fantasy relevance, although he's still a lower-tier receiver.
Roddy White, meanwhile, is on pace for 1,200 yards. Most encouraging have been his improvements on shorter crossing routes. White is beating press coverage, and has developed into more than a one trick (go deep, Roddy!) pony. That's essential considering
Joey Harrington doesn't like to stretch the field.
[URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=4227"]Steve Smith[/URL] isn't helping himself with at least four drops over the last two weeks. Despite the presence of
David Carr, Smith remains a must-start every week. He should bounce back against the Saints. ? With the Bucs likely to focus on the running game and the Colts defense excellent at preventing big plays, it doesn't look like a great week to use
Joey Galloway. ?
Anquan Boldin's status is currently a mystery. We'll rank him as if he's starting. ?
Dwayne Bowe's strong run is likely to end against the Jaguars. I'm not ranking
Eddie Kennison until he shows something, but his return doesn't particularly help Bowe. ?
Santana Moss doesn't look likely to play, so he's not on the rankings.
Antwaan Randle El gets a bump. ?
Drew Bennett will hit the rankings roughly where
Isaac Bruce is ranked if Reverend Ike can't play.
[SIZE=+1]
Week 5 Tight Ends[/SIZE]
<TABLE width="100%"><TBODY><TR class=TableTopRed><TD>Rank</TD><TD>Player Name</TD><TD>Opponent</TD><TD>Notes</TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>1</TD><TD>Jason Witten</TD><TD>at BUF</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>2</TD><TD>Antonio Gates</TD><TD>at DEN</TD><TD>Probable(flu)</TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>3</TD><TD>Chris Cooley</TD><TD>vs. DET</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>4</TD><TD>Jeremy Shockey</TD><TD>vs. NYJ</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>5</TD><TD>Kellen Winslow</TD><TD>at NE</TD><TD>Probable(shoulder)</TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>6</TD><TD>Dallas Clark</TD><TD>vs. TB</TD><TD>Questionable(knee)</TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>7</TD><TD>Tony Gonzalez</TD><TD>vs. JAC</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>8</TD><TD>Alge Crumpler</TD><TD>at TEN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>9</TD><TD>Heath Miller</TD><TD>vs. SEA</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>10</TD><TD>Owen Daniels</TD><TD>vs. MIA</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>11</TD><TD>Todd Heap</TD><TD>at SF</TD><TD>Questionable(hamstring)</TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>12</TD><TD>Ben Watson</TD><TD>vs. CLE</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>13</TD><TD>Jeff King</TD><TD>at NO</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>14</TD><TD>Donald Lee</TD><TD>vs. CHI</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>15</TD><TD>Marcedes Lewis</TD><TD>at KC</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>16</TD><TD>Eric Johnson</TD><TD>vs. CAR</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>17</TD><TD>Desmond Clark</TD><TD>at GB</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>18</TD><TD>Bo Scaife</TD><TD>vs. ATL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>19</TD><TD>Daniel Graham</TD><TD>vs. SD</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>20</TD><TD>Randy McMichael</TD><TD>vs. ARZ</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>21</TD><TD>Chris Baker</TD><TD>at NYG</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>22</TD><TD>Alex Smith</TD><TD>at IND</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>23</TD><TD>Quinn Sypniewski</TD><TD>at SF</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>24</TD><TD>Marcus Pollard</TD><TD>at PIT</TD><TD>- </TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>25</TD><TD>David Martin</TD><TD>at HOU</TD><TD>Probable(toe)</TD></TR>
<TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>26</TD><TD>Greg Olsen</TD><TD>at GB</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>27</TD><TD>Bubba Franks</TD><TD>vs. CHI</TD><TD>Probable(knee)</TD></TR>
</TBODY></TABLE>
TE Notes: Life has few certainties: Death, taxes, and
Dallas Clark going too early in fantasy leagues. At least until this year. Clark is currently the number one fantasy tight end in standard scoring leagues, and his career year isn't about to slow down with
Marvin Harrison less than 100%. Clark has more targets than
Reggie Wayne and Harrison for the season, and the Colts are calling plays for him that many fantasy owners expected to go to
Anthony Gonzalez. Clark even beat
Champ Bailey deep last week, the ultimate sign that he's playing out of his mind. Look for another solid game against the Tampa zone defense. ? The loss of
Michael Vick hasn't hurt
Alge Crumpler much. While he's seeing a lower percentage of Atlanta's targets, the Falcons pass-heavy style balances that out. Crumpler appears to be getting in shape during the season, so I wouldn't be surprised if he has a big second half. Maybe he'll come up with another open-field move than running people over.
[SIZE=+1]
Week 5 Team Defense[/SIZE]
<TABLE width="100%"><TBODY><TR class=TableTopRed><TD>Rank</TD><TD>Player Name</TD><TD>Opponent</TD><TD>Notes</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>1</TD><TD>
Ravens Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at SF</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>2</TD><TD>
Patriots Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. CLE</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>3</TD><TD>
Jaguars Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at KC</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>4</TD><TD>
Packers Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. CHI</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>5</TD><TD>
Steelers Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. SEA</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>6</TD><TD>
Titans Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. ATL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>7</TD><TD>
Chargers Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at DEN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>8</TD><TD>
Cowboys Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at BUF</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>9</TD><TD>
Texans Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. MIA</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>10</TD><TD>
Redskins Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. DET</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>11</TD><TD>
Chiefs Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. JAC</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>12</TD><TD>
Bears Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at GB</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>13</TD><TD>
Colts Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. TB</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>14</TD><TD>
Lions Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at WAS</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>15</TD><TD>
Buccaneers Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at IND</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>16</TD><TD>
Cardinals Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at STL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>17</TD><TD>
Panthers Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at NO</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>18</TD><TD>
Fortyniners Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. BAL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>19</TD><TD>
Seahawks Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at PIT</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>20</TD><TD>
Broncos Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. SD</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>21</TD><TD>
Giants Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. NYJ</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>22</TD><TD>
Saints Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. CAR</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>23</TD><TD>
Jets Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at NYG</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>24</TD><TD>
Dolphins Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at HOU</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>25</TD><TD>
Falcons Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at TEN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>26</TD><TD>
Browns Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>at NE</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>27</TD><TD>
Rams Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. ARZ</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>28</TD><TD>
Bills Def/Spec Team</TD><TD>vs. DAL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>
[SIZE=+1]
Week 5 Kickers[/SIZE]
<TABLE width="100%"><TBODY><TR class=TableTopRed><TD>Rank</TD><TD>Player Name</TD><TD>Opponent</TD><TD>Notes</TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>1</TD><TD>
Adam Vinatieri</TD><TD>vs. TB</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>2</TD><TD>
Stephen Gostkowski</TD><TD>vs. CLE</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>3</TD><TD>
Nick Folk</TD><TD>at BUF</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>4</TD><TD>
Jeff Reed</TD><TD>vs. SEA</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>5</TD><TD>
Nate Kaeding</TD><TD>at DEN</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>6</TD><TD>
Neil Rackers</TD><TD>at STL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>7</TD><TD>
Josh Brown</TD><TD>at PIT</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>8</TD><TD>
Jason Hanson</TD><TD>at WAS</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>9</TD><TD>
Jason Elam</TD><TD>vs. SD</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>10</TD><TD>
Jeff Wilkins</TD><TD>vs. ARZ</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>11</TD><TD>
Matt Stover</TD><TD>at SF</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>12</TD><TD>
Mason Crosby</TD><TD>vs. CHI</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>13</TD><TD>
Rob Bironas</TD><TD>vs. ATL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>14</TD><TD>
Kris Brown</TD><TD>vs. MIA</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>15</TD><TD>
Shaun Suisham</TD><TD>vs. DET</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>16</TD><TD>
Jay Feely</TD><TD>at HOU</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>17</TD><TD>
John Kasay</TD><TD>at NO</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>18</TD><TD>
Olindo Mare</TD><TD>vs. CAR</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>19</TD><TD>
Robbie Gould</TD><TD>at GB</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>20</TD><TD>
Lawrence Tynes</TD><TD>vs. NYJ</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>21</TD><TD>
Matt Bryant</TD><TD>at IND</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>22</TD><TD>
Mike Nugent</TD><TD>at NYG</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>23</TD><TD>
John Carney</TD><TD>at KC</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>24</TD><TD>
Joe Nedney</TD><TD>vs. BAL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>25</TD><TD>
Dave Rayner</TD><TD>vs. JAC</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW1><TD>26</TD><TD>
Rian Lindell</TD><TD>vs. DAL</TD><TD>- </TD></TR><TR class=TABLEALTROW2><TD>27</TD><TD>
Phil Dawson</TD><TD>at NE</TD><TD>- </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>