Is 2011 going to be the highest scoring fantasy season of all time? All signs indicate that it could be. Last season, seven players finished the season with more than 270 points (ESPN Standard Scoring). After four weeks this season, a staggering 18 players were on pace to beat that mark…and nine of them were QBs.
Like I said at the beginning of the season, gone are the days of fantasy rule by the RBs. Of those 18 players, only 5 are RBs…simply a staggering thought to anyone living in 2006 or before.
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With the rise in scoring, it is getting increasingly easy to predict breakout performances for players…as well as increasingly difficult to predict who will have a bad day. For instance, this week, I was 17 for 24 on my predictions for guys that I thought would be successful. On the other hand, I was only 11 for 20 on guys I thought you should sit. It’s just so difficult to predict who will play poorly when everyone is putting up record numbers.
Nevertheless, Jerod and I stand here undeterred in our predictions (as did Andy Bottoms in his Waiver Wire Pickups column). Let’s quickly recap those picks from last week before moving on to Week Six.
Week Five Recap
- Grading Scale for Predictions regarding Best Player/Start Em/Other Guys I Liked - (Hits: Top 12 for QBs/TEs and Top 30 for RBs/WRs)
- Grading Scale for Predictions regarding Worst Player/Sit Em/Other Guys I Didn’t Like - (Hits: 13th or worse for QBs/TEs and 31st or worse for RBs/WRs)
- Quick Note: The following players got injured and have been removed from the grading scale for fairness: Joseph Addai, Mike Tolbert, and Rashard Mendenhall.
Overall: 29 for 44 (66%)
Best Player Predictions: 4 for 4
- Hits: Michael Vick, Maurice Jones-Drew, Calvin Johnson, and Jermaine Gresham.
Start Em Predictions: 4 for 4
- Hits: Philip Rivers, Deion Branch, Pierre Garcon, and Brandon Pettigrew.
- Misses: None
Other Guys I Liked Predictions: 10 for 16
- Hits: Drew Brees, Eli Manning, Curtis Painter, Darren Sproles, Reggie Wayne, Hakeem Nicks, AJ Green, Greg Olsen, Jimmy Graham, and Owen Daniels.
- Misses: Mark Sanchez, LeGarrette Blount, LaDainian Tomlinson, Devery Henderson, Dallas Clark, and Scott Chandler.
Worst Player Predictions: 1 for 3
- Hits: David Nelson
- Misses: Cam Newton and Heath Miller.
Sit Em Predictions: 1 for 3
- Hits: Tom Brady
- Misses: Michael Turner and Vernon Davis.
Other Guys I Didn’t Like Predictions: 9 for 14
- Hits: Donovan McNabb, Matt Ryan, Jay Cutler, James Starks, Matt Forte, Wes Welker (Special exception…I said it would be a bad game FOR HIM and it was), Jacoby Jones, Jeff King, and Jeremy Shockey.
- Misses: Ben Roethlisberger, BenJarvus Green-Ellis, Shonn Greene, Victor Cruz, Steve Smith.
Onto this week.
Fantasy Football Week 6 Start Em Sit Em
Once again, “Start Em” guys are QBs/TEs outside of the Top 12 and RBs/WRs outside of the Top 25. “Sit Em Guys” include QBs/TEs that are in the Top 12 and RBs/WRs that are in the Top 25.
Remember that the following teams are on bye in Week 6:
- Denver
- Kansas City
- Seattle
- Tennessee
- Arizona
- San Diego
Fantasy Football Week 6 Start Em, Sit em Projections: Quarterbacks
Projected Best Performer – Tom Brady
He’s the best fantasy QB there is right now…and he’s playing against Dallas. The Pats might score 60 points.
Tom Brady Fantasy Football Week 6 Projection – 420 passing yards, 4 TDs
Start Em – Tony Romo
Last week, I predicted that Mark Sanchez would have a big day against New England’s banged up secondary that was already below average. Well, my reasoning was right, but I forgot one thing – that Mark Sanchez is awful. Don’t worry, the oft-maligned Tony Romo should put up great numbers this week, especially considering both Miles Austin and Dez Bryant should be fully healed.
Tony Romo Fantasy Football Week 6 Projection – 380 yards, 3 TDs, 1 INT
Other Start ‘Em Picks at QB for Week Six:
- Ben Roethlisberger – We finally saw the Big Ben I thought we would see all season last week. He should have another big game against Jacksonville.
- Josh Freeman – Bounceback game against the Saints at home.
- Curtis Painter – I’m all in on Curtis Painter…and he’s facing another decent matchup against Cincinnati.
- Michael Vick – If he doesn’t play well this week…well…um…yeah.
Projected Worst Performer – Miami’s QB
Let me just put it this way: in the pre-season, Dolphins’ fans were chanting the name of a QB in Denver who threw for 30 yards in the first half this week before being benched in favor of Tim Tebow. Don’t expect much from Miami QBs for the rest of the year…especially against the Jets.
Dolphins’ QBs’ Fantasy Football Week 6 Projection – 180 Passing Yards, 1 TD, 3 INTs
Sit Em – Ryan Fitzpatrick
I think this will be a weird game for the Bills. I think it’s going to be a little bit of a trap game (not unlike Cincinnati a few weeks ago), and the Giants will be looking to respond from their poor performance against Tarvaris Jackson and Charlie Whitehurst. Fitzpatrick won’t play AWFUL…but there should be plenty of better options in Week 6.
Ryan Fitzpatrick Fantasy Football Week 6 Projection – 240 yards, 1 TDs, 1 INT
Other Sit ‘Em Picks at QB for Week Six:
- Matt Schaub – Not against a Ravens’ team coming off of a bye.
- Alex Smith – I think the Lions and 49ers will face off in a defensive struggle. Plus, he’s been surprisingly very good against the blitz this year, but the Lions don’t have to blitz to bring pressure.
- Sam Bradford – Sophomore slump…mixed with the Packers’ defense.
Jerod’s thoughts:
I agree on Romo. The Cowboys are coming off of their bye, have their receivers healthy, and I’m sure are itching to put the Detroit debacle behind them. Plus they get the Patriots a week after they played a major rival. I actually think the Cowboys are a sneaky upset pick in this game, and for that to happen Good Romo must be on display.
Also, I don’t think Jon should get any credit for telling you that whoever plays QB for Miami (Matt Moore, at least to start) will be awful.
Fantasy Football Week 6 Start Em, Sit em Projections: Running Backs
Projected Best Performer – Ray Rice
He’s one of the best in the business…and he’s coming off a bye, facing an average run defense missing their best linemen. Rice could run wild against the Texans.
Ray Rice Fantasy Football Week 6 Projection – 150 Rushing Yards, 1 TD; 60 Receiving Yards, 1 TD
Start Em – Peyton Hillis
As you can see, I like guys that are coming off a bye this week, but Hillis should be fully healthy, and facing an Oakland team that could very well be emotionally and physically spent after the draining week that they just completed. Look for the Big White Avalanche to run a lot of people over this week.
Peyton Hillis Fantasy Football Week 6 Projection – 140 yards, 2 TDs
Other Start ‘Em Picks at RB for Week Six:
- Michael Turner – Maybe one of these weeks, Atlanta will get back to their roots and actually start running the ball. Nice matchup against Carolina.
- DeAngelo Williams – I think he has finally shaken off the offseason rust, and should have a nice game against a banged up Atlanta line.
- BenJarvus Green-Ellis – He’s looked great in back to back weeks, and the Pats are trying to prove that they have some sort of running game. Nice matchup against Dallas as well.
- Adrian Peterson – Always…I know…but should have a nice game against Chicago.
Projected Worst Performer – Jahvid Best
I don’t know if he’s not that good*, or if Detroit just doesn’t feel like running the ball when they can throw it up to the cheat-code every single play. Either way, the San Francisco defense is great, and Best won’t be a big factor unless he can break free on a few screens.
*As I’m writing this, Best runs for an 88 yard TD against Chicago proving that once again, I’m an idiot. My counter? Take that one run out and what has he done tonight?!? And the matchup still stinks.
Jahvid Best Fantasy Football Week 6 Projection – 30 Rushing Yards, 30 Receiving Yards
Sit Em – Arian Foster
I know he’s really good, but the Ravens are allowing less than 75 yards a game on the ground AND are coming off a bye. A lot of you might have a gut feeling that says to play Foster, and that’s fine. But my gut is telling me that he will be bottled up early and often this week.
Arian Foster Fantasy Football Week 6 Projection – 60 total yards
Other Sit ‘Em Picks at RB for Week Six:
- Tim Hightower – He’s going to start getting fewer and fewer touches as the year goes on.
- Jonathan Stewart – Look for his production to diminish as his teammate’s goes up.
- Any Saints’ RB not named Darren Sproles – Just say no to them. They hardly run the ball, and Sproles is the only guy that Brees really trusts on a consistent basis.
I cannot recommend that anyone sit in Arian Foster. In fact, I’ll say this: whoever is starting at RB for Houston is a must-start player until the Texans RBs put up two straight dud weeks. Even if the Ravens bottle up Foster between the tackles, which is in fact likely, he is a terrific receiver as he showed against Oakland.
And I would not start Peyton Hillis as anything other than a flex. Even at flex I’d be nervous. Hillis has been losing carries to Montario Hardesty, and the hard-line stance he is taking about his contract (which he needs to do for his own sake) is not endearing him to anyone on the new coaching staff I wouldn’t imagine. Look for Hardesty to continue siphoning carries, which kills Hillis’ value.
Fantasy Football Week 6 Start Em, Sit em Projections: Wide Receivers
Projected Best Performer – Megatron
Just pencil him in every week.
Calvin Johnson Fantasy Football Week 6 Projection – 120 receiving yards, 2 TDs
Start Em – Dez Bryant
I think that Bryant and Austin will both have big days against the New England secondary, but Bryant is starting to become Romo’s go to guy in the red zone. He’s big, athletic, and has great hands. He should take advantage of mismatches all game.
Dez Bryant Fantasy Football Week 6 Projection – 95 receiving yards, 2 TDs
Other Start ‘Em Picks at WR for Week Six:
- Mike Wallace – We finally saw the Big Ben I thought we would see all season last week. Wallace will be benefactor #1.
- Wes Welker – Free points.
- Percy Harvin – He’s quietly having a very solid year for Minnesota despite all of the problems. I bet you didn’t realize that he’s ranked in the Top 25 of all WRs, thanks in large part to his return skills. He should get free often against a mediocre Chicago secondary.
- Jeremy Maclin – He’s been quiet for a few weeks, and I think he’s due for a big game against the Redskins.
Projected Worst Performer – Mike Thomas
Bad day for Jacksonville…just like every other day for their fans.
Mike Thomas Fantasy Football Week 6 Projection – 3 catches for 28 yards
Sit Em – Stevie Johnson
Like I said earlier, I think the Bills will falter a little bit this week, and Stevie J will have a tough game, along with the rest of their offense that isn’t named Fred Jackson
Stevie Johnson Fantasy Football Week 6 Projection – 5 catches for 55 yards.
Other Sit ‘Em Picks at WR for Week Six:
- Julio Jones – He’s Roy Williams 2.0. Or maybe Michael Crabtree 2.0. Either way, it’s not good.
- Ted Ginn Jr. – Ginn is also having a better year than people realize, as he’s ranked the 30th overall WR. However, I think it will be a defensive struggle against Detroit. Bad day for Alex Smith = bad day for Ginn.
- Randall Cobb – Not many return yards for him this week against a team coming off a bye…he’s only a play in VERY deep leagues…like, I’m talking 20 team leagues.
First off, from here on out let’s just call the “Projected Best Performer” at WR the “Calvin Johnson Award”. Then you can stop taking the easy answer and be forced to pick who you think will be the 2nd best performer at WR.As for Percy Harvin, yes he is very quietly having that solid year you alluded to, as in one reception for 11 yards last week. He only has 18 catches in five games. He’s not a must start. He’s a flex at best.
I think you are way too hard on Julio Jones. Yes he struggled in Week 5, but he’d had 100+ yards each of the previous two weeks. He’s already better than Roy Williams ever was, and Julio Jones through five weeks a handful of preseason games has probably already participated in more practices than Michael Crabtree has in his career.
Also, never mention Ted Ginn Jr. in a Start/Sit column again. It hurts my stomach to laugh that hard.
Fantasy Football Week 6 Start Em, Sit em Projections: Tight Ends
Projected Best Performer – Aaron Hernandez
He’s back, and he would have had a MONSTER game last week if he could have completely shaken off the rust. He’s the number one TE in the game in my opinion, and he should have a great game against Dallas
Aaron Hernandez Fantasy Football Week 6 Projection – 150 receiving yards, 1 TD
Start Em – Benjamin Watson
The Raiders gave up a ton of points to BOTH of Houston’s Tight Ends last week. Watson is a good player, and should have a solid game as the Browns look to rebound after their bye.
Benjamin Watson Fantasy Football Week 6 Projection – 8 catches for 120 yards, 1 TD
Other Guys I Like:
- Jimmy Graham – He’s unbelievable.
- Dallas Clark – He has to break out eventually, right?
- Jason Witten – Big game for all of Dallas’ receivers against New England
Projected Worst Performer – Scott Chandler
I’ve missed on him every single week. All of you should probably trade for him now.
Scott Chandler Fantasy Football Week 6 Projection – 3 catches for 15 yards
Sit Em – Jermichael Finley
I don’t love this pick at all…but I have to pick a guy in the top 12 to have a bad day and he’s my choice. Rodgers has been spreading the ball out a lot, and it’s possible that Finley gets overlooked for a week or two. It’s also possible that he catches three TDs like he did against Chicago a few weeks back…but like I said, of all the top TEs, I think he’s the riskiest play at this point.
Jermichael Finley Fantasy Football Week 6 Projection – 2 catches for 25 yards
Jon, you need to make up your mind. I distinctly remember you saying that Rob Gronkowski was the top tight end in the game before. Now you’re picking his teammate who is still getting back into the groove off of his injury? And what about Jimmy Graham? Yes, is absolutely unbelievable! He has three straight 100 yards, has the love and trust of one of the NFL’s most accurate passers, and has no other tight ends to compete for targets. Jimmy Graham is #1!
As for Finley, I’d never sit him (unless I had Graham, Gronk, Hernandez, or Witten), but the fact that he dropped a few passes Sunday night won’t help him out any either. He’s still a stud though, so I just want people to make sure they have a great alternate option if they are going to sit him.
And now, back by popular demand…
Fantasy Football Week 6 Start Em, Sit em Projections: Defense/Special Teams
[Editor's note: These D/ST picks are all done by Jerod.]
Start Em Defense: New York Jets
They are playing the Miami Dolphins, are getting desperate for a win, and their pride has been challenged. What else really needs to be said?
Other Start ‘Em D/ST Picks for Week Six:
- Pittsburgh Steelers – they got back on track last week and get to face Blaine Gabbert and the one dimensional Jags this week. Gotta love it.
- Green Bay Packers – their secondary has been suspect this year, but they get to face a St. Louis team in Week Six that, while coming off a bye, hasn’t been able to get into any rhythm at all. Also, Clay Matthews will feast on Sam Bradford unless St. Louis’ O-Line really improves.
- San Francisco 49ers – this defense is for real folks; not only do they stop the run, but the secondary is opportunistic. Yes the Detroit offense is explosive, but the 49ers are going to give them all they can handle.
Sit Em Defense: Washington Redskins
The ‘Skins D has been outstanding this year, and they are coming off a bye, and they are facing a reeling 1-4 team that cannot seem to stop turning the ball over. So why am I telling you to sit them? Call it a hunch. Andy Reid is still one of the best offensive coaches on the planet, and the Eagles have explosive talent all over the field. Remember, they may be losing but they’re scoring plenty of points while they do it. Plus, need I remind you what Michael Vick did to Washington last year? The Eagles are 1-4 and really have their backs up against the wall. I expect them to play their best football this week, and that makes them very, very dangerous.
Other Sit ‘EM D/ST Picks for Week Six:
- New York Giants – don’t let their reputation fool you, this is not a top defense anymore, and we know how explosive Buffalo can be.
- Chicago Bears – they are coming off a disappointing, demoralizing Monday night loss and face their nemesis Adrian Peterson, who is in beast mode right now.
- Dallas and New England – this game will be a shootout; stay away from both.
**********
Okay everyone, there is your Start Em, Sit Em for Week 6. The comment section awaits your questions. Let’s all get some Ws this week.
About Jon Washburn
Jerod…you are so harsh!
I have been saying all season that Aaron Hernandez was the #1 TE…and only changed tune for a few weeks while he was injured.
You were right about Jimmy Graham…he is a beast…but I still don't think he's better than Hernandez.
And you are also right about Finley…but I had to pick a top 12 TE to play poorly (when really, I don't know if ANY of them will) and I felt like he was the riskiest guy available.
Haha, maybe you're right. I think I do remember you starting out on Hernandez now that I think about it. You win this time Washburn…
Schaub for Eli?? I already have Romo, I will strictly use Schaub or Eli for trade material, but am unsure who I will get more from. I feel Eli with Andre out. Thoughts??
My current team:
QB: Romo/Schaub
WR: L. Fitz, AJ Green, S. Moss, Antonio Brown
RB: Rice, Bradshaw, Beanie
TE: Finley
K: Kasay
D/ST: Cinci, Minn
Where would you look to upgrade? Our waiver wire and free agents are slim pickings. I'm grabbing Tebow for McCluster this week as there is a need for QB's in our league in upcoming bye weeks.
Appreciate all the help as usual guys.
Good call on Tebow. I like your squad. If you can flip a QB for a RB, it might not be a bad idea…even if it's a guy like Sproles. Beanie can't be counted on.
Yes, I like Eli over Schaub, especially with the emergence of Cruz and the injury to AJ.
Eli over Schaub…he also has better trade value if that's really what you are looking for.
Also, I would consider dropping a defense in favor of another skill player. Unless you have one of the top 4 defenses and they happen to be on a bye, I'm not a big fan of keeping 2 defenses all year.
With my wideouts this week, would you grab Heyward-Bay?? I will start Green. but would you rank the rest in order?? I think Haden is out & Philly has shut down top receivers. There are A. Brown, S. Moss, and I can pick up Heyward. Thanks again.
I would not grab Heyward-Bey if you had to drop one of your WRs.
I would list the WRs in this order:
1) AJ Green
2) Antonio Brown
3) Santana Moss
4) Heyward-Bey
I'll lay off Heyward. With bye week coming up, would you grab Fred Davis or Jake Ballard??
I would go with Fred Davis. I think he's the more consistent/safe play.
Ok, so I am having a bit of dilemma. It seems like every week I pick the wrong QB. I have Ryan, Schaub and Flacco. I pick one and the others do great. So I am at a loss. In my league Painter, Tebow, Campbell ,and Sanchez are available. Are any of these QB's worth dropping one of mine for? Mendenhall and Grant have put me in a bind at RB but thats a whole different story. I put in a trade for Lynch dropping Addai. Let me know what you think, I really need some help. I am maintaining middle of the pack status at this point, but the leader is distancing himself every week.
You're right. All three of those guys are very similar. If I were you, I'd get rid of one and get Tebow since he UNLIKE those three. I don't think anyone really knows what to expect from Tebow long-term, but his running ability gives him tremendous potential each week. I don't know if he'd become an every week starter for you, but at least he'd give you something other than the three carbon copies you have. I don't even know who to tell you to drop. I want to say Schaub because AJ is out and he has a couple tough matchups coming up, but his schedule for the fantasy playoffs is somewhat inviting.
And yes, I like getting Lynch. Addai can't stay healthy and at least Lynch gets all his team's carries.
I don't want to feel like a broken record, but I also agree with Jerod here. Check out my post that comes out later today for more reasons why Tebow will be a good value for fantasy this year.
So, who to drop for Tebow? And who to start this week. My apparently not-so-sneaky attempt to slide in and steal Garcon a week late didnt work, but all QB's are still available. You are right though, all my QB's are the same kind of player. My dilemma is that they all have potential for seriously good games and Tebow is at best a risk, so who goes? And Painter looks like a good pick up but I am not sure I trust him yet… his game against the Chiefs was well… against the Chiefs. I was thinking Schaub with AJ questionable, but everytime I doubt him he does very well. Flacco isnt stellar, but I keep thinking every week that he just might play like he did vs the Steelers. I love and hate Fantasy Football.
8 team PPR league You guys have been spot on for me, so dont let me down now. Santonio Holmes vs. miami or Desean Jackson vs. washington. I know it looks obvious but maclin taking away jacksons looks and holmes finally got in the mix last week. thanks for all replies.
We will do our best not to! I would still play DJax. Philly did very well against Washington last year, and he is a constant home run threat. And frankly, I don't really trust the Jets' passing game right now. With Miami coming off a bye, they may be ready to play a decent game. Maybe. Still, I'd go with DJax for the upside.
I agree with Jerod. I know Holmes has a slightly more favorable matchup, but he hasn't been looked to very much in the red zone this year. Also, you really never know what you are going to get with Mark Sanchez.
While the same could be said about Vick, you at least know that he will throw for a lot of yards and a few TDs…even if he sprinkles some interceptions and bad plays in there. While DJax always scares me, I would play him over Holmes this week.
Rest of the season question. I picked up eli last week as romo and flacco were on byes. As romo as my starter, looking at the rest of the season schedules, which one of these do i keep as my backup the rest of the way ?
I like Romo the best for the season. Even with some INTs, they'll throw it a lot and he'll rack up points. Same with Eli. I like those two the best, then Flacco, who is underrated as a fantasy QB but still too inconsistent.
I definitely like Romo first, then Eli as well.
I think Romo and Eli could both be top ten guys the rest of the way, but I give Romo a slight edge because their defense is awful and the Cowboys will have to score a lot of points to win games.
FYI I don't think Pierre Garcon was a start em Miss
You are definitely correct!
Yeah…I put him in the wrong list. Last week, I told everyone to SIT him…and I was wrong about that.
Hey guys,
Would you drop Kolb for Tebow, Painter or McCoy? I almost feel like each of these guys would be an upgrade to Kolb. Am I crazy?
You are not crazy. Kolb is what he is at this point: a QB who doesn't throw many TDs, and who throws just as many INTs. From a fantasy perspective, I think that McCoy is the safest but that Tebow has the highest upside of that group because of his running. Act accordingly.
I wrote an article today about Tebow. I think he could be a great backup, as well as a fantastic safety net for the fantasy playoffs in case your QB is sitting out. He plays the Patriots and Bills in weeks 15 and 16…I think he would be a fantastic option.
As for the rest, I think Painter is actually the safest FANTASY option, even though McCoy is the safest real QB of the group.
PPR league
The Law Firm or Cedric Benson?
Vernon Davis or Ben Watson?
Vernon Davis no question! When chosing between BenJarvus and Benson you have to think about the fact that in New England, who ever has the hot hand gets the ball. So if its week 8 and Woodhead or Ridley hit their stride then you are out of luck. Ced is averaging 20 carries a game.
Gotta go LawFirm. He was great last weekend, and while the NE RB situation can chance quarter-by-quarter, I do think Belichick trusts BJGE the most, and Dallas will make this a close game.
At TE, Davis. With Morgan out, he becomes even more important.
Definitely Davis. I like Ben Watson a lot this week…but I like Vernon Davis more.
As far as this week goes, I would actually play Benson against Indy's defense…as long as he's not in prison yet.
I like the LawFirm…but I like Benson's matchup better this week.
Hey Jarod,
Need your advice for who to pick up since 2 (1 QB and 1 WR) of my guys are on bye week.
1) Phillip Rivers and Matt Hassleback both on bye week – Colt McCoy, Painter, Alex Smith, Grossman available. I am picking McCoy however I'd value your thoughts and make a pick based on that
2) Drop Nate Wash for Victor Cruz or any of the guys listed below.
I need fill-in or sleeper type of WR. I picked up Nate Wash but he hasnt put up decent numbers.
There are some other options available…coudl use your help.—Victor Cruz, Crabtree, Doucet, Heyward-Bey, Hines Ward, Avant, Kevin Walter, Preston Parker, Antonio Brown….thanks
Yeah, I like McCoy as the safest pick, especially against Oakland. Their secondary can be thrown on.
I still like Washington as a decent play, but he's never proven himself a #1 WR. If you wanted to grab Cruz, Crabtree, or even *gulp* Heyward-Bey, I wouldn't argue. Actually, yes I would on Heyward-Bey. Still not sold on him, but the potential is there.
I think McCoy is safe, but I would actually consider Painter. The Colts have no running game at all, and are going to be losing in A LOT of games. Painter will end up having really good numbers, even if the Colts lose every game.
I wouldn't drop Washington just yet, because he's easily the #1 option on his team. However, Cruz is a great option…definitely the best option among everyone you listed, so if you have a good feeling about him, or are mad at Nate Washington, he wouldn't be a bad pickup.
Also, compare Painter's weapons with McCoy's, and try to convince yourself that McCoy is really that safe of a pick.
need a little help
RB's Hillis, Run DMC, Jahvid Best
WR's Stevie Johnson, Miles Austin,Garcon,Colston,AJ Green & Santana Moss
TE's Vernon Davis & Hernandez
im thinking ill pay
Hillis,DMC, MIles and AJ Green but who at TE and FLEX i was thinking both TE's or Hernandez & Colston need your help
At RB, I'm play DMC and Best. Don't trust Hillis or his role in the offense right now.
WR: Wow, nice options. Go with Miles and AJ.
TE: VD…since he's the #1 option in the SF passing game with Morgan out
Flex: Garcon…can you sit him after two straight 2-TD games? I don't think so.
Jerod and I disagree on Hillis. I would play Hillis and DMC at your RBs, Austin and Green at WRs, and Hernandez at TE.
Your flex is tough. Davis, Garcon, and Colston are all great options. But I would play Davis because, as Jerod said, he's San Fran's #1 option right now, and he will probably get a lot of looks on hot routes against Detroit's defensive line.
i picked up Garcon and Colston off waivers my buddy freaked and dropped them both after week one, but thanks for the input fellas i think i might go the two tight end route or VD and garcon at flex
Thanks again
Hey Guys,
10 Team PPR league, trying to get to get back to .500 this week. Thanks for your help as always!
current lineup
QB Stafford
RB F. Jackson
RB S. Greene
WR R. White
WR S.Holmes
WR D. Nelson
TE E. Dickson
Flex 1 J Avant
Flex 2 K Hunter
BENCH
QB Shaub
RB J. Battle BYE
RB E. Graham
RB T. Hightower
RB B. Jacobs
RB S.Ridley
WR B. LLoyd BYE
TE J. Ballard
DEF Bengals
What do you guys think?…. not so sure about the flex spots etc given my choices here.
NOTES:
S. Greene came through for me last week and the run game looked better w/Mangold and I think Rex will try to be patient with the run again against Miami . I think they will also try to get Holmes more big plays(yea…I guess u can tell I'm a long time Jet fan) What do u think about Hightower as a flex? Eagles give up many points to rb's despite splitting carries and Hightower is probably well rested. Graham may also be the starter this week w/ Blount injured.
Jon, I know u have Hightower as a sit BUT I almost feel like all the Washington RB's can score against that porous Eagle run def plus can you really predict what Shanahan is gonna do anyway…what a fantasy nightmare!
Play Graham at Flex if Blount is unable to go. I'd also play Hunter. I like him, even over Hightower (who will lose carries to Torain). With Josh Morgan out, the 49ers need to run this week. They will also likely hit Hunter on some screen passes to try to keep the pass rush honest.
George, you are absolutely right about not being able to predict what Shanahan is going to do…and Washington definitely could run for a lot of yards against Philly. It sounds like you have a gut instinct that Hightowere will play well, and if that's the case, I would go with that gut instinct.
However, if you DON'T have a strong feeling about him and are just looking for advice, I would agree with Jerod. I like Graham at the flex as long as Blount is out, and I'm a HUGE fan of Hunter. He is a great runner, and the 49ers are really running the ball well early on.
Hey guys, I have both Pettigrew and Hernandez and TE. Who do you suggest I start this week? do you think I should keep them both on my roster, or should I try and trade one of them? I am in need of a second receiver behind Bowe. What kind of value could I get for either of them if I were to trade one of them?
I would try to trade hernandez. He has more name value because he's on the Patriots. Pettigrew will give you solid weekly productive but wouldn't fetch as much in a trade. And yes, if you can get a top 20 WR for Hernandez, I'd make the deal.
I would disagree with Jerod here. My philosophy is to get a great TE that you can count on and plug in every single week so you never have to worry about him. Then, you can pile up assets at the WR and RB position and play matchups/gut feelings.
Personally, I think that Hernandez could end up scoring twice the amount of points that Pettigrew will get for the rest of the year, and even though Pettigrew won't fetch as much in a trade, I think that Hernandez is too valuable to let go…unless you trade him straight up for a TOP 8 WR/RB.
Hey guys, whats going on with Mike Williams (TB) do you think he is ever going to be what he was last season?
Mike Williams is having a sophomore slump that many rookies experience. He is the focal point of opposing defenses and struggling a bit. Also remember that the majority of his value last year was from his unusual number of TDs for a rookie WR. He's actually pretty close to his reception pace from last year, though the yards are down. I think at this point you need a take a wait and see with Williams and remember that TDs can be hard to predict from year to year and even game to game. At this point, I think Williams is a good #3 WR, because there is still potential there, but I wouldn't count on him as anything more.
Yep. You can't chase TDs, especially with young guys. I think the real factor here is what Jerod said near the beginning. Williams was talented enough to come in and surprise people as a rookie that most people had never heard of or were game planning for. This year, defenses know his name and have been keying on him nearly every play. You will actually see that some of his fellow wide receivers have benefited from this…they are all having better seasons than anyone thought.
But yes, in my opinion, Williams is only a #3 WR this year…he's still a good player, but he's not going to sneak up on anyone and explode from week to week.
do you start harvin or tb mike williams this week and do you go with mccoy or painter for fill in is graham a better option over shonne greene
I think Harvin has a better matchup against the Chicago Bears' secondary this week than Mike Williams – a guy who has yet to do a whole lot this year.
For QB, I would play Painter. He has some good weapons, and the Colts might have the worst running game in the league. He should definitely get a lot of fantasy stats, even if he's an inconsistent player in real life.
As for your RBs, I would play Shonn Greene. If Blount is unable to go, that would make Graham an intriguing option, but I think the Jets get back to their old ways this week and start pounding away on the ground.
would you drop tomlinson and pick up earnest graham start 3 non ppr greg little shonne greene earnest graham percy harvin tampa mike williams who is better off for kicker novak henery or cundiff for kicking duties rest of year
Graham is an intriguing option in the short term, but longterm, he is going to be Blount's backup and I think LT will have more consistent value for the rest of the year.
This week, I would start Greene, Harvin, and Williams…unless Blount is definitely out in which case I would play Graham.
As for kickers, it's always hard to really know, but I like kickers on teams that tend to score a lot of points, so I would probably take Novak
Hey guys, I have a few questions for ya. Here is my line up for this week:
Qb: Stafford
RB: Mendenhall
RB: McFadden
RB/WR: Sproles
WR: Antonio Brown
WR:Heyward-Bey
TE: Hernandez
D: Bills
K: Hanson
Bench:
Bowe Bye week
Floyd Bye Week
Brandon Jacobs RB
Kendall Hunter RB
Brandon Pettigrew TE
Jason Hill WR
Jonathan Dwyer RB
My first question is, based on my linup do you feel I am putting out the best team possible? with Mendenhall being Questionable this week should I replace him with Hunter or Dwyer come Sunday? For my WR's I have read that Hill may possibly be Gabberts new favorite target should I put him in or sit him for another week? If i put him in who should I put him in for?
Thanks guys for you help
Ben-Jam-In
I think your lineup is very solid, but I would play Hunter over Mendenhall this week. Even when he's been healthy, Mendenhall has been extremely disappointing this year, and Hunter has shown a lot of promise.
As for your other question, I don't think that Hill is better than any of your other options. I would leave Sproles, Brown, and Heyward-Bey in the lineup over him.
hi guys,
im in a 14-team non-PPR league:
QB – Painter
WR1 – Welker
WR2 – Cruz
RB – MJD
TE – Heath Miller
W/R – Torain
K – Kasay
DEF – Minnesota
BN1 – P. Rivers
BN2 – A.Gates
BN3 – A. Boldin
BN4 – J. Batlle
BN5 – Heward Bey
What do you think of this lineup? Is it optimum? For defense, I can pick up Buffalo or Washington- are either of them a better play than minnesota? any help is appreciated :)
The only change I would CONSIDER would be Boldin for your FLEX spot…but I think Torain will have a good day and I would leave it the way you have it. I also think that Minnesota is a better defense than Buffalo, and Washington will be playing a more difficult team, so I would leave Minnesota in your defensive slot.
i need to start 2 RBs out of the following in a 10 team PPR league with points for return yardage and 15 extra points for 100+ yard game (rushing or receiving, not combined):
Foster, Hillis, Sproles, D. Thomas, J. Battle, J. Starks
I'm torn between Foster/Sproles and Hillis/Sproles or even Foster/Hillis but i'd like to get your thoughts.. those 15 extra points make all the difference between winning or losing in my league and although sproles is on fire i want to start RBs than might get 100 yards..
thanks
Wow. Thanks for giving me all the details. That makes the question much trickier to handle.
I think that Sproles will definitely have 100 yards for most games…but he will very rarely get 100 on the ground or 100 in the air.
If you are looking for your two best bets to get that multiplier, I think that Foster and Hillis are your options. Jerod would disagree on Hillis, but I think even he would agree that none of your other guys have great chances to get to that 100 yard plateau.
If you are really trying to get that bonus, I would play Foster and Hillis…but Sproles is more flexible and would probably get you more points if one of them didn't reach the century mark.
Hello Jerod,
first time this year i am one the site….i missed the first 5 weeks but looking at your hit to miss ratio from last week, i missed out a ton…
so you like watson at TE?
I need a flex guy in a ppr league:
i have Jones (Hou) or Avant (Phi)
I just picked up Watson as a bye week replacement for Finley
do i start watson as the Flex instead of one of the wr above?
I think that Watson is not only a safer pick than the other two guys, but he also has a pretty high ceiling. I could definitely see him snagging a TD or two this week.
Jones is intriguing, especially with the injury to Andre Johnson, but I think Watson is the best play for the FLEX this week.
Jerod,
i found my way back to MSF!
sorry i missed the first 5 weeks….
so i have a flex spot issue:PPR League
i have A Johnson who is hurt and some guys on bye so i am light.
starting rb: Greene and Starks
QB Vick
WR Welker
TE Finley
so now it gets ugly:
i need a wr and flex from Avant, Jones (Hou), Jaffney and B watson (TE) i saw you liked him so i picked him up for my bye week replacement.
i am thinking Avant at WR and Watson flex…thoughts.
I think you are the same guy I just answered, but I will answer again. I like Watson at the flex, and probably Jones as your second wide receiver. He should get more targets with Andre Johnson out, and I think he will have a good week. If you have a strong gut feeling about Avant, I would go with that, but if not, I would play Jones and Watson.
hey guys! a few questions-
Start Brandon Marshall or Pierre Garcon in the Flex?
Big Ben or Eli?
Bengals, Giants or Skins D?
Thanks!
I definitely think Garcon is your guy, especially since Marshall will probably be stuck on Revis Island all night.
Both Eli and Big Ben have very favorable matchups this week, but if I'm pressed into a corner, I would play Big Ben. I think last week was just a taste of things to come, and the only thing that worries me is that the Steelers might be leading most of the second half.
As for your defense, I think that Washington has the best defense, but they are also playing the best offense. However, if you think Vick will struggle and turn the ball over some more, they might be the best play. If not, I would go with Cincinnati. The Colts have been able to gain some yards the last few weeks, but haven't been able to punch it into the end zone. Add that to the fact that the Bengals' defense is very solid, and I think I would play Cincinnati this week.
Hey guys, what is your opinion of Jackie Battle? I've read some mix reviews on him. Some people say he might be the Peyton Hillis of this season, others say his game was a fluke against a poor Indy defense. I know he's on his bye week but is he worth picking up?
Hi Guys
So i really need a win. I started out strong, since then 3 straight losses.
This is my roster
1 QB :- Tom Brady, Matt Cassel
2 RBs :- Matt Forte, Steven Jackson, Ryan Torain
3 WRs or 2 WR/1 TE :- Roddy white, Stevie Johnson, Early Doucet, Antonio brown, Steve Breaston, Damian Williams (Ten WR), Ben Watson
Do you think i should get Jackie battle for the long run this season? Who do u think i should drop for him?
Also, Who do you think i should play for WRs and RBs for week 6?
Thanks a lot
I need some help at RB.
Frank Gore (vs. det) or Cedric Benson (vs. Ind)?
Thanks as always for your advice,
Jim
I also have torain and Graham now as an option?
Detroit looks really good against the run plus Cincinnati will be ahead most of the game which means lots of touches for Benson against a mediocre run defense so i'd go with Benson.
i feel a love to start little this week against oakland he is #2 wr now would you roll with him aj green and mike williams tb or do you take out if so who and place percy in thanks guys your great
i have no idea what your question is. please use punctuation marks.
Hahaha, sorry but this made me laugh
Hey guys,
Due to bye week roster losses and injuries, my WR corps is somewhat depleted. However, I do have Nicks and D. Nelson, but I also grabbed V. Cruz off the waiver wire. Although I rarely would start two WRs from the same team, have very little choice this week.
Do you think I should keep both Nicks and V. Cruz in my starting lineup? Hayward-Bey is available, but I don't trust him so much, especially Joe Haden plays.
Thanks in advance.
Max
I had both Cruz and Nicks in my starting lineup last week and scored a combined 40 points because of them. I am starting them again this week simply because of the matchup. I expect them to get a lot of points this week as well and its going to be a shootout.
Do you guys have any faith this week in Sanchez or McCoy? My current starters are unimpressive and risky at best. With Ryan, Schaub, and Flacco on my current roster, I am leaning towards starting Flacco, but contemplating dropping Ryan this week for a quick impact QB
I had a trade proposed to me he offered Stafford for Schaub and Megatron. I dont think I could Physically force myself to consider this
I would start Flacco instead of Sanchez or McCoy. Houston is reeling on defense and offense so I see flacco having a good game. I would not drop Ryan. He is in a funk but he should get better as the season progresses.
I agree with you on the trade, I would not do it myself either. Megatron is a beast and will continue to give a lot of points to fantasy owners. Remember, he had just as stellar of a season even when Stafford was injured.
For week 6 who would you recommend starting in a 14-team PPR league, Sam Bradford, Alex Smith, Curtis Painter or Donovan McNabb? I also need help with my Flex as Mike Tolbert is on a bye. Not a lot out there. Who would you recommend as a pick up for this week to fill in – Greg Little, Jason Avant, Devin Aromashodu, Jerome Simpson, Arrelious Benn, Brandon LaFell, Harry Douglas, Tedd Ginn, Jeremy Kerley, Dane Sanzenbacher? Thanks for all of your help.
McNabb was picked up by someone else, but now Rex Grossman is available. What do you think?
Who is a better wire pick-up for a Flex position in week 6 – Mohamed Massaquoi or Donald Brown? This is a 12-team PPR. Thank you.
Donald Brown because of Addai's injury.
Romo or Brees ?
Romo because of the matchup.
Would you trade Newton for Hillis?
My other QB's: Fitzpatrick and Flacco
RB's: Foster, Shonn G, Hardesty, Battle, Ridley
WOW! you have some really solid RB's there already. Foster is well THE foster and I feel Battle will score a lot of points in Jamaal Charles' absence. Having said that, Hillis will make your options rock solid. You could ride Foster + Hillis for the rest of the season.
I am 50-50 on this trade simply because Newton brings a lot of points to the table. He has been shredding good defenses in his rookie season and only looks to get better. Unless you really feel you want to improve your running options i would not do this trade.
Greene F.Jones Forte or D.Thomas Need 2 PPR
Greene and Forte
PPR league start gore at detroit with his numbers to come thru the air like forte did against them last week, or play cedric benson at home against the colts and the 23rd rated defense ? thanks
I would play Benson against the Colts. I forsee the 49'ers being behind most of the game and the lions shutting gore down.
What's up guys,
Quick question. Who would you start at flex position, Ryan Torrain against eagles or James Starks vs. rams?
Thanks a ton!!
Ryan Torain by a mile! Starks is going to share his load with Grant on a team that relies more on pass than rush. Also, Hightower seems to be questionable for the game and at best will only get 1/3rd of the carries if he does play so I'm expecting a lot of output from Torain this week.
hello,
i have painter as QB to fill in for Rivers this week. its a non ppr league
however rex grossman, sam bradford and jay cutler are available for pickup in FA.
should i drop painter for any of them? i have a tough matchup and need this win!
thanks in advance
the reason i ask is that you mention that you're all in on painter yet he is ranked almost dead last among QBs in your player rankings. it has made me nervous!:)
Hey Jerod, my starting line for this week is [qb] M. Schaub, [RB] J.Stewart, [RB] A. Foster, [WR] G.Jennings, [WR] M.Colston, [TE] S. Hernandez, [W/R] C.Benson(CIN), [DEF] Steelers.
My bench is [WB] J. Cutler, [RB] B. Tate, [RB] B.Wells (Bye), [WR] C. Ochocino, [WR] N. Washington (Bye), [DEF] Giants. Also if I let Giants [DEF] go where would you suggest I should update in my team?
I'm thinking abot putting [qb] Schaub on the bench and putting Cutler in. I dont really have any other options for rb except Tate and if I did put him in it would be between Stewart and Foster. Coming off a week win and trying to keep that going. Thanks for the great site and your reply.
typo I meant [QB] J. Cutler.
who would you start at WR got V.jackson on bye
T.Smith
D.Bryant (Starting)
J.Nelson
D.Heyward Bey
sims walker
Need 3
I would start Jordy Nelson simply because of their explosive offense and Heyward Bey because he looks really good coming off great performances over the past two weeks.
Torrey Smith hasnt done much since his flash-in-the-pan performance and Sims Walker will be up against a good defense combined with their rookie quarterback.
Hey Jerod,
i am looking ahead and see i have an issue week 8 at RB my two starters are in bye weeks and Jacobs is hurt not sure if he will be back by then. that leaves me with mcgahee and moreno left. Bernard Scott is on waivers should i look to pick him up and hope he starts his suspension by week 8?
Hope Benson starts his suspension.
Mcgahee is a decent option and since you need one more picking up Bernard might not be a bad idea.
Hey Jerod,
In need of some serious help!
3 RBs: Earnest Graham, Daniel Thomas, Mendenhall, and Torrain
Reggie Wayne or Kevin Walter
Lastly, I have Schaub and Hasselbeck (bye) do I drop one for a guy like Painter or Campbell this week?
Thanks,
Adam from NJ
At RB, I'd sit Thomas simply because he is the least healthy of the four, and he plays Monday night, so you're screwed if he ends up not playing. At WR, I'd go with Wayne. I don't trust Walter, especially not against Baltimore. Depending on how big you league is, you can drop Hasselbeck. I'd grab Campbell and play him over Schaub this week.
Thanks, J-man! You're the bomb!!! You always answer and with the best advice in the game!! HAPPY SUNDAY!
ADAM in NJ
8 team PPR league. Who do you like this week and the rest of the season, Fred Davis or Brandon Pettigrew ? Cooley now out for a few weeks, but i think washington has 2 inferior qbs throwing the ball versus the detroit qb throwing to pettigrew. also, whch one do you think will have the most targets going forward ? thanks for your replies this season.
cmon fellas, show me a little love on this question.