WEEK 13 FANTASY FOOTBALL RANKINGS

WEEK 13 Rankings

By Muntradamus

 

It is week 13, in what is a MUST WIN GAME for most fantasy football teams as some try to clinch playoff spots, while others are looking to avoid elimination.  I have been watching football like an Eagle (not a Philadelphia Eagle) all season long, I study traits full time and I’m in a few very high stakes fantasy leagues, and always open for higher.  Here is how I would rank the players for this week.

My system is by tiers, and then I rank the individual players inside that tier.  If you have any line up questions, or thoughts about players feel free to comment.  I will respond.  If you don’t see a player on this list that you would consider starting, you should go with a different option.

Tier- Separates the grouping of players.  The higher the Tier the more confident you should be in starting that player.

*- Denotes if a player is injured, or if that player is effected by injuries to key players.

Updated 12/4/2011

-updated daily

QB

1^st Tier

Tom Brady vs Indy- Must start every week.  Could have 5 TDs vs the Colts…Brees did it.

Drew Brees vs Detroit- Must Start QB regardless. Could easily be a 4 TD game for Brees this week.

Aaron Rodgers @ New York Giants- Must start vs anyone.  Early lock for MVP.

Matt Stafford @ New Orleans- This will be a shoot out, and New Orleans has no problem letting opposing QBs have big games.  Just ask Eli Manning and his 400 yards on Monday Night.

Tony Romo @ Arizona- We could see 400 yard Tony Romo this week, as long as Murray doesn’t run the show the entire 1^st half.  If Miles Austin plays this week, it would be hard to not see Romo find a way for 3 TDs easy. *Miles Austin does not look like he’s going to play.

Eli Manning vs Green Bay- Green Bay gives up yards, and they give up points.  Eli should easily be able to get a 300 yard 2 TD performance.

Cam Newton @ Tampa Bay- Cam should find ways to reach the end zone either with his arm or legs against a middle of the pack Tampa Defense.

2^nd tier

Philip Rivers @ Jacksonville- Jacksonville’s defense is not as bad as you think they are.  But injuries will play a factor and I think Rivers is starting to get something going with Gates.  Rivers needs a big Monday Night to get his Chargers back in playoff contention and I expect him to do it.

Matt Ryan @ Houston- Ryan always has the chance to throw for 2 TDs against any defense.  Texans will be tough on Matty Ice so if you have better matchups go for them.  But if you don’t let it fly and hope for the best.

Tim Tebow @ Minnesota- He’s basically a running back/QB.  He can make anything happen against any defense and is always capable of that HUGE fantasy day.  As long as he finds his rushing TD he should be a solid bet for 16 points.  Jared Allen vs. Tebow should be a great matchup all game.

3^rd tier

Matt Moore vs Oakland- More could be a good surprise start against an Oakland Secondary that really misses Nandi controlling that secondary.  They should have no answer for Brandon Marshall.  It is very possible to get a 2 TD game from Moore this week.

Alex Smith vs ST.Louis – The matchup is there for Smith to finally have a great game, however the 49ers will be dominating and if Smith doesn’t get on the board early, than he will be in for a bad line as the 49ers should be running clock in the 3^rd quarter.

Ben Roethlisberger vs Cincinnati – This is not a week to use Big Ben if you have better options.  Cinci’s D is tough and they will be playing this one like a playoff game.  Ben could use his legs for a big game, but I wouldn’t feel confident using a QB who had trouble with the Chiefs this past week.

Vince Young @ Seattle- I don’t trust him to have a repeat 400 yard game, with Maclin questionable, and D.Jackson terrible.  I don’t think Avant, Cooper and Smith are good enough options to make Vince a must start.

Matt Hasselbeck @ Buffalo- A risky pick if you’re desperate at QB.  Buffalo really struggles against the pass and even let Mark Sanchez look like an elite QB last week.

Joe Flacco @ Cleveland- Surprisingly, Cleveland is the top defense against QBs in fantasy this season.  That state alone would keep me from using Flacco, though I like them to reach the red zone a lot this week which could present a lot of opportunities for TDs.  He’s a borderline High Risk High Reward play.

Carson Palmer @ Miami- Palmer has been a 300 yard machine for the Raiders recently.  Miami’s defense is playing very well recently and held Romo to only 2 TDs this past week.  Though if you don’t have stronger options hope that Palmer will find a way to get 250 yards and 2 TDs.  I’m not counting on it.  If Denarius Moore doesn’t play this week, you could do a lot better than Palmer.  Denarius Moore and Jacoby Ford not playing.  I would bench the former Trojan.

*Josh Freeman vs Carolina **Josh Johnson vs Carolina- If there was a week for Freeman to get going, this would be it.  He should be able to move the ball with ease vs Carolinas weak 7 loss defense. *It has been reported Freeman has a bad shoulder.  Stay tuned to make sure the QB will be able to play.  If it’s minor and he’s listed as probable, I would still roll with him.  He may not even play, hopefully you have better alternatives.  He is listed as out. ** I would put Josh Johnson here if you are desperate.

Andy Dalton @ Pittsburgh- I would never recommend playing a QB for Pittsburgh unless it was someone in tier 1.  Dalton has looked great, but I would go with a different option.

Ryan Fitzpatrick vs Tennessee- Tennessee’s Defense is very solid and I would not expect Fitzpatrick magic as Stevie Johnson will be locked with Cortland Finnegan all day.

Mark Sanchez @ Washington- Sanchez is a completely different QB on the road.  Washingtons Pass defense isn’t as bad as everyone thinks.

Kevin Kolb vs Dallas- If he comes back, great!  Maybe he can get Fitzgerald going again, but then again it’s Kevin Kolb and there’s no way he will do anything against a Ryan Cowboys defense.   Looks as he’s going to play, I would bench him.

Christian Ponder vs Denver- Denver’s Defense has been respectable lately and I don’t see Ponder as someone who can move the ball with ease this week.

Rex Grossman vs Jets- There’s no way you should start him for the Jets.  Pick up someone else.

RB

1^st Tier

F.Gore vs ST.Louis – After watching Beanie tear up STL for over 200 yards, Frank should reach fantasy stardom again this week and find the end zone perhaps twice in what will be a blow out victory.

DeMarrco Murray @ Arizona- DeMarrco should have a huge game against a defense that really struggles to do anything right.  I would be surprised to see Murray not find the end zone this week.

R.Rice @ Cleveland- Rice should have a monster game against a Cleveland run defense that is absolutely awful.  Benson was the latest victim having a career game with over 100 yards rushing and 2 TDs.  Ray Rice should easily be able to do the same.

Maurice Jones Drew vs SD- The Chargers run defense is not that great, and the Jags will try to get MJD (their best chance at winning) all the touches he needs to have a monster Monday Night game.

LeSean McCoy @ Seattle- Have to start the stud he could have a monster game.  He is now listed as questionable, he is playing, let him ride.

Arian Foster vs Atlanta- Not a great matchup as Texans will be behind, but they will be depending on Foster more than ever to get them the victory.

LeGarrette Blount vs Carolina- It’s games like these why Blount was drafted so high.  He is a must start vs a run defense that gave up nearly 100 total yards and a TD to Donald Brown last week.

Matt Forte vs Kansas City- You gotta start Forte regardless of the matchup.  KC has an underrated defense, but I like Fortes chances to break 150 total yards.  The TDs should start coming for this guy.

Michael Bush @ Miami-  This could be the last week Bush has his MVP type value.  McFadden will be coming back sooner rather than later and once that happens Bush’s production will be dicey as who knows what they do with the split.  But for now start Bush with confidence and expect 100+ total yards and a TD.

2^nd Tier

Marshawn Lynch vs Philadelphia- Should find the end zone against a D that just allowed Benjarvus Green-Ellis to score twice.

Chris Johnson @ Buffalo- Owners want to see him do it again against a soft Buffalo D.  He should have no problem repeating, Buffalo has looked very shaky at defense recently.

Reggie Bush vs Oakland- I like Bush to run all over the Oakland defense as a receiver out of the backfield and just explode through big holes all day long.  The big key will to see if he finds the end zone.  100+ yards should be easy for Bush this week.

Benjarvus Green-Ellis vs Indy- Great matchup as they will be winning and be in the red zone often.  Only once all season has a RB not gotten over 10 fantasy points vs the Colts.  Green-Ellis is as safe as ever this week.

Kevin Smith @ New Orleans- If Kevin Smith plays he should be a lock for 100 total yards.  He looked so explosive before getting injured vs Green Bay.  This guys sky is the limit especially with his skills as a pass receiver. (It’s very questionable he will play.  According to Sportsline he feels good, according to rotoworld his status is in doubt.)  Updating Previous reports.  It looks as Kevin Smith will play as of now!  Get ready to use him.  He practiced Friday, looks good to go.  Reports are he will play.

Ahmad Bradshaw vs Green Bay- If Bradshaw comes back he will have a matchup to shine.  All of the Detroit Running backs were getting great production last week vs Green Bay and this has been nothing new all season vs a team that scores a lot of points and gives up a lot of points.  Expect Bradshaw to get 10 points right out of the gate if deemed 100% healthy.  (It looks like Bradshaw is out this week, I will take him off the list tomorrow if he doesn’t practice)  I will wait one more day to take him off the list since he hasn’t been officially ruled out yet.  He pratcied Friday, if he play and starts, he could be in for 100 total yards.  I’m expecting close to 80, he’s starting.

Beanie Wells vs Dallas- After a masterful game, I don’t see the success continuing against a very good Dallas run defense.  Plus Arizona should be playing from behind this week which means passing in the 2^nd half and I don’t like Beanies chances of being north of 80 yards as he will need a goal line TD to salvage his day.

P.Thomas/Sproles/Ingram vs Detroit – The backfield is so crowded in New Orleans.  Anyone of them could have a huge game, and all of them could have a huge game at once.  If you’re lacking depth at RB you should be fine with any of these guys as the Lions are without Sugh.  It will be a high scoring affair and all of them should get their touches.

Stephen Jackson @ San Francisco- SF has not allowed a rushing TD all season.  Stephen Jackson and the Rams will be losing this game as well.  I would be worried about starting the veteran this week, and hope for 80 total yards.  The touches will be there.

Michael Turner @ Houston- The Texans are maybe the #1 defense you don’t want your fantasy players playing against.  They will not give up big plays, and they have maybe the best LB crew in the NFL.  Turner could be in for a very disappointing week.  He has an injury but he’s playing.

Ryan Matthews @ Jacksonville- Jacksonville is a tough Defense and with Tolbert lurking around I wouldn’t be surprised if  Matthews goes for anything more than 80 yards.  The TD will be important this week as Jacksonville will look to limit the big plays.

DeAnglo Williams @ Tampa Bay-  Williams is hot and Tampas run defense just gave up 190 yards to Chris Johnson.  Look for DeAnglo to maybe break a long one and reach 100 yards for the first time since New Orleans earlier this season.

Rashard Mendenhall vs Cincinnati – Cinci’s run D is very good and should definitely present a challenge to Mendenhall.  With that being said I feel Pittsburgh will be moving the ball well and should present a lot of red zone opportunities for Mendenhall as he has ran the ball very well recently.  A lot of power and 2^nd effort.

Willis McGahee @ Minnesota- This could be a very rough matchup for Willis.  Minnesota is great against the run and just shut down Michael Turner.  McGahee does run hard and does get rushing attempts so he could make something happen as long as he keeps pounding.  Don’t be surprised to see an under 70 yard performance.  Didn’t practice Wednesday, I wouldn’t be worried yet.  Did practice Thursday.

Toby Gerhart vs Denver- If AP doesn’t play Gerhart should get around 20 carries in what will be a low scoring affair.  Look for him to get the goal line carries and if he cashes one in you’re looking at a solid 10 points.  If AP plays…Bench him. * AP isn’t playing, play him if you’re desperate.

CJ Spiller vs Tennesse- Spiller looked mediocre at best for Buffalo.  He should get enough touches to gain 80 total yards, but he could also be benched due to poor play.  I would gamble on Spiller if I was low on RB.

Shnnon Greene @ Washington- The matchup isn’t great but it’s hard to bench a running back that should get 15 touches in a must win game and a against a defense that hasn’t been stopping the run either.  It’s not like Sanchez is going to single handily carry them to victory.  Or is he?

*Maurice Morris @ New Orleans- If Kevin Smith doesn’t play Morris should have a big game as he is great for total yards.  If he can find the end zone against a soft New Orleans D, Morris could be the sleeper of the week.  His status all depends on Kevin Smith.  It looks like Kevin Smith will start, if that’s the case don’t use Morris.

3^rd Tier

Roy Helu vs Jets-  The Jets know this guy is the focal point of the offense and New York has had no problems stopping Running backs all season. Helu will get his touches, but New York will make sure to contain the multi-purpose yard threat.

*Cedric Benson vs Pittsburgh-  The guy runs tough and is good in every matchup he has just because he’s a great goal line back.  But this week he is truly TD or nothing as Pittsburgh should be able to contain Ced Ben to under 100 yards.  Didn’t pratice, check tomorrow to see if he does.  Questionable still, reports have him expected to play.  He practiced he’s good to go.

Jonathan Stewart @ Tampa Bay- Stewart will look to find the end zone as he was robbed of his goal line TD last week vs Indy.  He still put up a decent game with only getting 1 point through the air.  J-Stew is a good bet to hoover around 100 total yards, but will he get that TD?

Peyton Hillis vs Baltimore- It’s great to see Hillis back.  But it’s bad he has to face Baltimore in what will be a one sided affair, Cleveland will abandon the run early.

Brandon Jacobs vs Green Bay- Jacobs has a chance to do something this game with Bradshaw looking like he’s doubtful.  If New York is going to win this game, it’s because Jacobs is going to control the clock and keep Rodgers off the field.  If Bradshaw plays, I wouldn’t play him.  Bradshaw is playing.

Donald Brown @ New England- The matchup is good, but the Colts will be losing quickly in this one, I don’t think Indy will have time to get the running game going.  Plus Joseph Addai playing makes Donald too risky of a start.  Anyone can do well against Carolinas run defense.

Mike Tolbert @ Jacksonville- Tolbert has fallen off the map recently due to poor play.  He really needs to get his red zone vulture on this week, and the opportunities could be there.  There are safer options out there, but Tolbert does carry some upside this week.

James Starks @ New York Giants- Starks value is on the decline as he is dealing with injuries.  He was pulled out early last week, and is not very dependable as Ryan Grant plays at least 2-3 series a game, and Kuhn does the goal line work.  Most of Starks production comes in blow outs when he kills the clock, and this isn’t a guaranteed blow out game.

Ben Tate vs Atlanta- He is really usable when the matchup presents itself with an easy win.  Atlanta is no easy win this week.  Look for the Texans to be using their best RB (Foster) more this week.

Jackie Battle @ Chicago- Terrible matchup.  I hope you have better options.  The Bears run defense is great, he might get 15+ attempts but that doesn’t mean more than 60 yards.

Daniel Thomas vs Oakland-  Only for the very desperate owner at this point.  His production looks to be locked up for now until Bush proves that he isn’t as durable as the Dolphins hoped he would be.  If you play him hope for 10+ carries.

*Bernard Scott @ Pittsburgh- With the report that Benson didn’t practice on Wednesday Scott will be looking to make an impact.  He is great when he gets his chances, check back to see if Benson practices tomorrow.  Doesn’t look like he will be used this week.

Marion Barber vs Kansas City- Almost like Brandon Jacobs, Marion Barber really depends on the TD to save his fantasy day.  Forte is capable of scoring, and if you’re desperate for a vulture than you can do worse than Barber.

WR

1^st Tier

Calvin Johnson @ New Orleans- Look for megatron to have a career game.  The Saints secondary will have no answer for the big play threat.

Wes Welker vs Indy- Will be open often vs the terrible Colts Secondary.

Victor Cruz vs Green Bay- This guy is so good.  I wish I picked him up, and he is easily a top 5 fantasy WR from here on out.  Green Bay will have no answers for the Giants WRs.  On the injury report, wouldn’t worry.

Brandon Marshall vs Oakland- Marshall should follow in Jonny Knox’s footstep as the #1 WR in yards against OAK in week 12.  Coming off a big Thanksgiving game, Marshall is a Must Start this week.

Greg Jennings @ New York Giants- Jennings is just too good, and is a candidate to score every week with the way Rodgers is tossing the rock.  Too many options and the 1 on 1 coverage is too often for Jennings.

Hakeem Nicks vs Green Bay- As long as Cruz is out there, Nicks sees one on one coverage which isn’t a good idea with a WR with the skills set like Nicks.  He is a good bet to have a big game in what should be a shoot out in New York.  On the injury report, I wouldn’t worry.  He missed practice Thursday.  Still good to go.  He practiced Friday, he’s ready.

Steve Smith (Car) @ Tampa Bay- Talib is playing great CB lately, and just shut down Nate Washington to one catch.  But Steve Smith is no Nate Washington, look for the big play WR to find that end zone again as him and Cam look N-Sync on those deep bombs.

Mike Wallace vs Cincinnati- Coming off a two catch game against KC will only fuel the Steelers to get Wallace back on track.  All it takes is one catch for this guy to have a good fantasy game, he is must start all the time.

Dez Bryant @ Arizona- Even though he’s been struggling and seems to be the #2 WR behind Laurent Robinson as far as targets goes.  Bryant is just too explosive of a WR to bench especially in a matchup against a very bad Arizona secondary.  Romo should have a monster game, and so should Bryant.

Laurent Robinson @ Arizona- I think it’s Facebook official, Robinson is clearly Romos go to target.  Maybe they double Dez Bryant all the time, though I don’t see it.  Laurents role will be interesting when Miles Austin comes back.  I don’t think it will be this week.

Larry Fitzgerald vs Dallas-  Dallas will be winning and Arizona will be throwing.  #1 WR’s are doing well vs Dallas this year and that bodes well for Fitzgerald as he will catch anything that’s thrown near him.  If Kolb can manage to throw for 200 yards and a couple TDs, Fitzgerald should have a good fantasy game.

Jordy Nelson @ New York Giants- This guy is a TD machine, and should be able to have good matchups as he looks to bounce back from her terrible Thanksgiving game.  Lance Moore the #2 WR had 2 TDs against the Giants Monday night, Jordy will look to grab at least one.

Dwayne Bowe @ Chicago- Bowe should have a monster game against a Bears secondary that seems to be a little vulnerable against the pass.  Even Carson Palmer was able to throw for 300 yards without his #1 and #2 targets against the Bears.

Andre Johnson vs Atlanta- The Falcons have been terrible against #1 WR’s all season, they gave up 2 TDs to Nate Washington two weeks ago and then 100 total yards and a TD to Harvin this week.  Look for Andre Johnson to make big plays on his own after the catch.

Roddy White @ Houston- White is a guy you have to start regardless of matchup because he is the #1 target for Matt Ryan, but don’t be surprised to see Jonathan Joseph shut out the UAB receiver.  He is maybe the best corner back this season.

AJ Green @ Pittsburgh- It doesn’t matter whose guarding this guy.  He is big long and athletic, he is a threat for at least 100 yards or a TD.  Hopefully he gets both.

2^nd Tier

Marques Coltson vs Detroit- He should have a big game, they just have so many options it’s a matter of feeling lucky with Coltson.  He could have 120 yards, he could have 20 yards.  I like him to be north of 80 and just hope he breaks out with his big TD performance.

Nate Washington @ Buffalo- Nate has a great matchup against a banged up Buffalo secondary.  He should be able to find the end zone again.  Sanchez was able to throw 4 TDs against them.

Deion Branch vs Indy- If Brady wants to throw Deion a TD he will be open for it.

Vincent Jackson @ Jacksonville- As soon as this guy looks to get going he gets another 2 catch performance.  Yes the 40+ point potential is there, but those 2 point games are too frequent for my liking.  I would go with safer options if I had them, especially against a Jags defense that shut down Andre Johnson this past week.  Though Yates and Leinart are far far less of QBs than Rivers.

Anquan Boldin @ Cleveland- Joe Haden is officially overrated in my eyes.  He has not shut down a premiere WR all season and Boldin should be able to have a nice day.  With that being said, if Haden can keep Boldin shut out in the 1^st half then Boldin will be on his way to a bad game as Baltimore will look for the blowout in this one.

Brandon Lloyd @ San Francisco- Lloyd is good enough to have big weeks even when the Rams lose.  And this will be a prime example of a garbage time WR this week.  Look for big production in the 4^th quarter from Lloyd.

Pierre Garcon @ New England- With New England blowing out Indy Garcon should be able to find a lot of soft spots against that New England secondary, Desean Jackson should have had a monster game against NE last week.  He dropped 2 TDs.

Percy Harvin vs Denver- As soon as Harvins stock points straight up he gets a tough matchup against Champ Bailey.  It will be interesting to see what Harvin can do against the veteran.  The Vikings will force feed the ball to this guy anyways so he shouldn’t be a terrible start, just keep expectations tempered.  Vincent Jackson only had 2 catches against Bailey a week ago.

Julio Jones @ Houston- He should bounce back from his 0 catch performance as Roddy White will be harassed all game by Jonathan Joseph.  Julio Jones could see some big time plays this week.

Reggie Wayne @ New England- Reggie will be open as often as he wants, I like him to keep his good game streak going as Indy plays from behind all game.

Stevie Johnson vs Tennessee- The only reason he gets put in the second tier is because he’s good and he gets 10+ targets a week.  The matchup isn’t great this week, but the opportunities will be there.

Antonio Brown vs Cincinnati – Brown should be Ben’s go to guy as Wallace could be a decoy.  Brown is very solid and is just too good for single coverage.  I like the big WR to get 80 yards this week, the TD will be the difference maker.

Eric Decker @ Minnesota- Decker gets targets, and Tebow trusts him.  That’s enough to play him especially when Minnesota is known for it’s run defense and someone will have to make plays down field.  Decker is a great sleeper pick this week.

*Mike Williams(TB) vs Carolina- I like Mike to continue his TD streak to 3 games as Carolina will not have any answers.  Freeman and the 2^nd year WR are looking to find their groove again from a year ago and this game should put Tampa back in the playoff picture.  Josh Johnson ins QBing I’m dropping Mike Willams a few spots.

Johnny Knox vs Kansas City- Everyone knew in the off season that Knox was the top WR in Chicago.  After three big games in a row, everyone will start buying into it.  He has a tough matchup against Flowers who shut down Mike Wallace last week (2 catches 17 yards) but Knox is something special.

Santonio Holmes @ Washington- If I had to have one Jets WR it would probably be this guy just because they look for him to make the big plays.  All it takes is one for Santonio, if I had stronger options I would go with them.

Michael Crabtree vs ST.Louis- Crabtree is really starting to come into his own, and the 49ers have been running a lot of plays for the 2^nd year WR to get him confidence.  I would not be surprised to the future star with at least 10 fantasy points this week.

3^rd Tier

Desean Jackson @ Seattle- If a guy ever needed a redemption game this season, Desean Jackson week 13 would be the classic example.  After dropping 2 TDs against New England, Desean is in a MUST HAVE big game.  Who knows if Vince Young will trust him.

Lance Moore vs Detroit- It was great for those owners who took a chance on the Tulane wideout Monday Night.  He was due for a big season, but sometimes gets lost in that WR corpse.  I would only play Moore if I lacked a true #2 fantasy WR or Flex player.

James Jones vs New York Giants- This guy is very good and if he didn’t have all star WR’s surrounding him he would probably be a #2 option on most teams.  He is a good bet to get that long score, but it’s your call if you like to roll the dice.

Nate Buerlson @ New Orleans- This will be a high scoring game and Buerlson should get a lot of open looks as Calvin Johnson will have a lot of attention.  He could be good for a cheap TD and 60+ yards this week.

Plaxico Burress @ Washington- He’s secretly the #1 WR on this team, and he always has that threat to score.  He also has that threat to put up 60 yards and if Sanchez performs like he has on the road, I wouldn’t go with the ex-jail convict.

Derraius Heyward-Bey @ Miami- DHB keeps getting put in positions to perform and if Moore is healthy then Bey will get lots of single coverage and could break a long one.  Laurent Robinson the #2 WR for Dallas had a 2 TD performance vs Miami Thanksgiving.  Heyward Bey could be a sleeper this week with all the Raider WRs being out.

David Nelson vs Tennessee- This guy is exactly like Plaxico Burress, you need that TD to have that solid game for him.  He should be able to get the looks as Stevie will be locked up with C.Fig all day.

Doug Baldwin vs Philadelphia- Baldwin is in a good opportunity to put up a big game with Sidney Rice looking out for the year.  However expecting Tavaris Jackson to be a big factor against a big named Philly secondary, I would not be counting on Baldwin.

Early Doucett vs Dallas- This seems like the perfect game for Doucett to find the end zone.  Fitzgerald will be triple teamed, and Doucett will be open underneath as Dallas protects the big play all game.  If you’re desperate at WR this week I would sleep with Doucett.

Torrey Smith @ Cleveland- He will go deep, he will get his deep passes, but will he catch them.  This is a guy I would avoid starting in what will be a run, run, run approach by Baltimore this week.

Greg Little vs Baltimore- If Little could catch the ball he would be a Tier2 WR.  But he can’t and look for him to get knocked around by a Physical Raven defense.  He should get his garbage time stats.

Damian Williams @ Buffalo-  If there was ever a week for Damian Williams to reach 2 TDs.  This would be it.  I like the matchup, but whose not to say Tennessee will just run the ball all day.

Jason Avant @ Seattle- Avant would make a good sleeper pick vs Seattle as Young’s true go to guy.

Santa Moss vs Jets- It was good to see Moss playing against last week.  Now that he’s back he should be on your bench this week as Darrel Revis is too good for the veteran.

Steve Breaston @ Chicago- I would only use this guy in a PPR league.  As the bears defense focuses on Bowe they leave this guy open for 6 yard crossing routes all the time.  He should manage to get 5 receptions.  I’m excited for Orton and him to play together.

Jabar Gaffney vs Jets-  Gaffney will have to be the man as Moss won’t be getting open often.  I don’t like Gaffney against the Jets though.  Just too risky.

TE

1^st tier

Jimmy Graham vs Detroit- Must Start, doesn’t matter the matchup he is too good for anyone.

Rob Gronkowski vs Indy- I don’t know how the Colts are going to be able to guard this guy.

Jason Witten @ Arizona- Easily could be the #1 TE this week.  Witten is due for a monster game.  Hopefully Murray doesn’t steal the entire show.

Antonio Gates @ Jacksonville- This guy is back.  He looks healthy and I like him to find the end zone against Jacksonville on Monday Night.  He is a great guy to own down the playoff stretch of the season.  This is a must win game for San Diego.

Aaron Hernandez vs Indy- He should have plenty of room to get those big yardage plays.  I like him to find the end zone again.

*Kellen Winslow vs Carolina-  Great Matchup for the red hot Winslow who looks to continue his recent great play out of nowhere.  Carolinas defense is a mess and will have too much too worry about when big Kellen Winslow goes thumping up the middle on those play actions.  Josh Johnson at QB should help Winslow as he will lean on the TE.

JerMichael Finley @ New York Giants- When will this guy put it together.  New York just gave up 2 TDs to Jimmy Graham, maybe the Packers will find a way to get Finley going.

Vernon Davis vs St.Louis- Davis has a great matchup in a game where Alex Smith should be able to rack up at least 250 yards.  If Smith can manage to do that, Davis should get at least 70 yards and will be looking to add that touchdown.  Davis goes as far as Smith will take him.

Dustin Keller vs Washington- How can you not start the guy after a 2 TD performance, he is Mr.Hot/Cold streak, ride him out while he’s hot.

2^nd tier

Fred Davis vs Jets- Freddie is top tier TE talent.  Problem is the Jets are a top tier defense and I don’t see Davis having any matchups he can exploit.  Washington will have problems all games vs a tough New York defense.

Brandon Pettigrew @ New Orleans- In a high scoring game I like Pettigrew to emerge as the safety valve with the Lions having too many options for the shaky Saints secondary.

Ed Dickson @ Cleveland- If there was a good week to count on a TD from Dickson this would be it.  Baltimore will be in the red zone often this week and when Cleveland focuses all of the LBers and Safties on Ray Rice, Dickson could sneak into the back of the end zone.

Greg Olsen vs Tampa Bay-  This guy should be a top 10 option every week but it just doesn’t seem to click.  I like him to put up a good game vs Tampa, but he isn’t that dependable.

Tony Gonzles @ Houston- Houston is the only team you would make an exception and definitely bench your TE against them.  The LB crew is tough and fast, I don’t see Tony finding a lot of open space.

Owen Daniels @ Atlanta- Too many TE targets to feel safe about this guy.  Dressen, and Casey are candidates to do just as well, and now with no QB who can really trust any Texans besides Foster and A.Johnson.

Brent Celek @ Seattle- I like Celek to get around 60 yards, a TD would be nice.  He’s going to be Youngs safety option all day.

Jacob Tamme @ New England- He should be open over the middle as New England plays prevent with the big lead.

Jermaine Gresham @ Pittsburgh- Gresham definitely has the talent.  It’s just hard recommending players against Pittsburgh.  Their defense has top 5 talent and Polomau will not miss this game.

Anthony Fasano vs Oakland- If you are looking for a deep sleeper at TE this week Fasano is your guy.  Oakland gave up a TD to Kellen Davis this past week, and Fasano seems to be open in the red zone all the time.  Moore likes finding him as well.

Jake Ballard vs Green Bay- The guy gets the opportunities for big games, but isn’t very dependable.  You could do a whole lot worse than Ballard this week especially with a defense that gave up 132 yards to Kellen Winslow a week ago.  But then again you can do better.

3^rd tier

Scott Chandler vs Tennessee – He’s too much TD or bust for my liking to ever consider starting him.

Jared Cook @ Buffalo-  He could find the end zone, but I wouldn’t start an unproven TE a week after a concussion.

Heath Miller vs Cincinnati-  Miller can’t be counted on after his 1 catch performance.

K

1^st tier

Billy Cundiff @ Cleveland- Baltimore will be in the red zone all game against Cleveland, if Ray Rice doesn’t score those TDs, Cundiff will get those FGs.

David Akers vs ST.Louis- San Francisco has had problems all year converting in the red zone, if Smith or Gore doesn’t have a true breakout performance, then Akers should continue his steady 3+ FG per game pace.

Robbie Gould vs Kansas City- Gould should get a lot of FG tries as Chicago will move the ball, and without a true QB option the Bears should settle for FG’s.

Sebastian Janikowski- Oakland will move the ball, and Janikowski is coming off a 20+ point effort in most fantasy leagues.  He is MUST START.

Stepehn Gostowski vs Indy- New England will be in the red zone all day.  Allthough the trips will result in mostly TDs.  6XP and 1 FG could be in the works for Gostowski.

Mason Crosby @ New York Giants- Crosby is maybe the best FG kicker we have.  If Rodgers wasn’t perfect, Crosby would be the #1 FG kicker this year.  Hope that somehow Rodgers doesn’t dominate the red zone like he always does.

Dan Bailey @ Arizona- I expect this to be a week of XP’s for Bailey.  The matchup is too easy and Dallas’s offense is too potent to settle for FGs.

Rob Bironas @ Buffalo- As long as Tennessee stays competitive, which they should.  Bironas will get his FG tries.  This is an offense that could struggle in the red zone with a soft CJ running the ball and Hasselback not able to buy extra time with his feet.

John Kasay vs Detroit- He kicks extra points more than any kicker, and the trend should continue.  He only needs 1 FG to have a more than decent game.

Matt Bryant @ Houston- Atlanta will settle for FG’s against a tough Houston defense.  It helps that Bryant is a near perfect kicker.

Neil Rackers vs Atlanta- With no QB the Texans provide Rackers with the best chance to be the best kicker to close out the season.  Teams should be able to contain Houston in the red zone leading to a lot of FGs.

2^nd tier

Alex Henerey @ Seattle- Surprisingly Philly should move the ball with ease and could stall as they get in the red zone, not a bad sleeper pick for the week.

Matt Prater @ Minnesota- Prater has a big leg, and will look to get his FG attempts going this week.  If Tebow can create something against Jared Allen then Prater should get his FGs.  I predict 2 with the chance for 4.

Nick Folk @ Washington- Should see at least a handful of FG’s against a Washington D that will let New York move the ball.

Conor Barth vs Carolina- Tampa Bay will move the ball well, and as long as they don’t give the ball to Blount in the red zone, Barth should get his FGs.

Olindo Mare @ Tampa Bay- Carolina is going to score.  There red zone offense has been solid all season but Mare should hit a couple FGs.

Dan Carpenter vs Oakland- A nice sleeper candidate for 3 FGs against a defense that doesn’t do a good job of stopping the ball, but they do a good job not allowing TDs + Miami is lacking a good red zone running game.

Jason Hanson @ New Orleans- If Stafford falls behind early like Eli Manning did, than Hanson will be out of this game as Detroit will be forced to score TDs, not FGs.
D

1^st Tier

San Francisco vs ST.Louis- Once SF’s defense shuts down Stephen Jackson what will Sam Bradford and a bad ankle do against the young fierce 49ers.  Probably set up some opportunities for SF DST to get a TD.

Baltimore @ Cleveland- Cleveland won’t know what to do in this game as they get blown out, and have no threats down field to make plays.  Baltimore DST should get a TD this week.

Philly @ Seattle- They should have a field day against T.Jackson.  If they don’t then they are safely a #2 defense at best.

New Engalnd vs Indy – The Patriots defense should be a top 5 unit this week as Indy is terrible, they are home, and they will be playing with a huge lead all game.  Hopefully a TD is in the future for New England.  And Dan Orlovsky is starting.

Dallas @ Arizona- If Dallas can stop Beanie Wells, which they should since they’ve been great against the run all season.  Then look for Dallas to create turnovers in the pass game as Fitzgerald will be force fed in double teams.  Don’t underestimate the blowout victory.

New York Jets @ Washington- Rex Grossman is Mr. Turnover.  The Jets should be creating problems all day for Washington

Chicago vs Kansas City- Chicago will feast on a medicore Kansas City offense.  The Bears pass defense has been weak lately, and if they can contain Dwayne Bowe than they could have a big week!

2^nd tier

Houston vs Atlanta- This is not a good matchup for the Texans.  I don’t expect a good game at all, but they are the #1 unit so you have to consider starting them unless you have something better.

Denver @ Minnesota- If Adrian Peterson doesn’t play than Denver should have no problem creating problems for Ponder and Gerhart.  If AP does play I would bench the unit.  **NO AP GO FULL FORCE.

Green Bay vs New York Giants- The Giants will score the points, they will get the yards, but maybe.  Just maybe they will get turnovers.

Atlanta @ Houston- If Atlanta can find an answer for Foster/Tate and force Yates to throw the ball, this could be a good week.  But if Atlanta struggles or doesn’t get a lead.  Then look for a mediocre performance.

Cincinnati @ Pittsburgh- Not a great matchup, Rothel could turn it over but he could also have a good game.  Not a great matchup.

Pittsburgh vs Cincinati- A good defense that has a bad matchup.  Dalton looks like an all-pro QB and will not give Pittsburgh a lot of opprutunities to make plays.  Benson will also keep the running game modest.

Miami vs Oakland- Miami’s defense has been solid of late and have been great in the 2^nd half this season.  Oakland could struggle, but will Michael Bush be too much?

San Diego @ Jacksonville- I don’t expect San Diego to slow down MJD.  But if they can, and Gabbert has to beat SD when they play from behind, SD could be a nice little sleeper pick.  Although you would be reaching.