Atlanta Falcons @ New York Giants

Sunday, November 22, 1:00 p.m. ET

Sportsbook favorite: Giants -6.5

It’s been a struggle to say the least lately for the Giants, who started 5-0 only to lose four straight games, but the conditions are perfect for a turnaround game. We know Atlanta can’t stop the run so Brandon Jacobs and Ahmad Bradshaw should move the chains all day. We also know Matt Ryan hasn’t been himself over the last several weeks. Perhaps because he’s taking too many sacks, he’s appeared shell-shocked, hurrying throws and missing his targets. The Giants have the book on him and will rush him all day; that’s a recipe for another subpar performance from Ryan and a victory for the Giants.

Sports betting pick: Giants -6.5

Washington Redskins @ Dallas Cowboys

Sunday, November 22, 1:00 p.m. ET

Sportsbook favorite: Cowboys -11

The Redskins are No. 1 in the NFL against the pass; too bad they do nothing else well on a football field. If they shut down Tony Romo, the Cowboys can hand the rock to Marion Barber, who could have his best game in a while against a Redskins “D” allowing 125 rushing yards per game. If they can get ahead, the Cowboys could close this game out quickly, forcing the Redskins to pass. It’s hard to have confidence in Jason Campbell’s ability to keep his team in the game.

Sports betting pick: Cowboys -11

Philadelphia Eagles @ Chicago Bears

Sunday, November 22, 8:20 p.m. ET

Sportsbook favorite: Eagles -3

If you think Sunday is the Bears’ redemption game in their return home, think again. The Eagles are simply a brutal matchup for the struggling Jay Cutler. He’s getting no help from his offensive line but he’s also forcing balls into traffic. As a result, he leads the NFL with 17 interceptions. Facing a Philly team ranking second in the league in sacks and third in picks, the Bears may implode again. It’s also worth noting the Chicago defense can get beaten deep in the passing game. Can you say DeSean Jackson?

Sports betting pick: Eagles -3

We are now more than 2 1/2 years into the NFL careers of the players who were drafted in 2007.

If you scroll down the list of first round draftees, several names will jump out at you of players who have already carved out solid beginnings to their careers.

In a few cases, some of the first round draftees from 2007 have proven to be franchise cornerstones worthy of high picks: Calvin Johnson, Joe Thomas, Adrian Peterson, Patrick Willis, Darrelle Revis, Ted Ginn Jr, to name a few.

In other cases, however, the players drafted in 2007 have proven to be worth far less than what their draft position might suggest. This is no more evident than with respect to the two QBs drafted in the first round in 2007: JaMarcus Russell and Brady Quinn.

My goodness, what wasted first round picks those two are proving to be.

And amazingly, Russell and Quinn are not alone. Several other QBs were taken in 2007, none of whom have amounted to much of anything. Let’s review the carnage.

First, we have to examine the combined ineptitude of Russell and Quinn. Let’s start with the caveat that both players were drafted by teams that have spent most of the last decade defining the word futility. Any quarterback would have struggled in the situations that Russell and Quinn have been in.

With that said, bad franchises take QBs in the first round specifically so that they can emerge from their futility and become competitive. The Raiders and Browns have stayed the same, if not regressed, since deciding to take these two in the first round.

And it has culminated in this, from Pro Football Talk today, in which MDS breaks down (via Adam Schefter) the possibility of the Browns or Raiders breaking the all-time NFL record for fewest points in a 16-game season (currently held by the 1992 Seattle Seahawks, 140 points):

…both the Cleveland Browns and the Oakland Raiders have a shot at the record this season. Nine games into 2009, the Browns have scored 78 points, putting them on pace to finish with 139 and break the 1992 Seahawks’ record.

And if the Browns don’t break the Seahawks’ record, the Raiders might: Having scored 88 points this season, Oakland is on pace to finish with 156. If Bruce Gradkowski manages the superhuman feat of being a worse quarterback than JaMarcus Russell, maybe the Raiders can come in under 140 as well.

Now, to be fair to Brady Quinn, he has not started the entire season. He was replaced by Derek Anderson after playing only 10 quarters. But that is perhaps even more of an indictment of Quinn’s failures, because we all saw how pathetic Anderson was.

Just take a look at Russell’s and Quinn’s career numbers. (I apologize in advance for not having sickness bags ready for the Browns and Raiders fans who are reading this.)

Brady Quinn:

• 2007 draft position: #22 overall
• Passer rating: 58.0
• Completion Percentage: 52.2%
• TD:INT ratio: 3:7
• Yards per attempt: 5.2
• Total passing yards: 1,071
• Large fines for cheap hits on opposing defenders after INTs: 1

JaMarcus Russell:

• 2007 draft position: #1 overall
• Passer rating: 65.5
• Completion Percentage: 51.6%
• TD:INT ratio: 17:21
• Yards per attempt: 6.0
• Total passing yards: 3,860
• Number of google results when you search “jamarcus russell poor work ethic”: 1,070,000

Thinking back to the 2007 NFL draft, and how big a deal was made about Brady Quinn dropping unexpectedly and being “embarrassed” as the cameras caught the disappointment on his face, it almost makes me laugh. Considering how he’s turned out, he should have been jumping for joy to be picked in the first round and get some guaranteed money; it’s the Browns and their fans who should have winced in agony.

But hindsight is always 20-20, as they say.

Okay, fine. So the two first round QBs of 2007 turned out to be putrid. Surely there must have been a diamond in the rough uncovered later in the draft, right? Well…

Kevin Kolb was taken with the 36th pick. He actually showed some promise this season, sporting an 88.9 QB rating in two starts. Still, he’s only played in 11 games over three seasons and has thrown seven INTs against only four TDs. But we’ll be generous and say the jury is still out on Kolb.

John Beck was taken with the 40th pick by the Miami Dolphins. He has thrown 107 career passes and is now a benchwarmer for the Ravens. Failure.

Drew Stanton was taken with the 43rd pick by the Detroit Lions. All you need to know about Stanton is that he has been so good the Lions took Matthew Stafford with their first pick in the last draft. Failure.

Trent Edwards was taken by the Bills with the 92nd pick. He has actually been the “best” QB from the 2007 draft…which is not saying much. He has at least played in 31 games for the team that drafted him though, and has a respectable (I guess) 78.0 QB rating with a 24:25 TD:INT ratio. I suppose this is not terrible production from a third round pick, but it’s not good for a draft class when this is the high water mark.

The Dallas Cowboys drafted Isaiah Stanback with the 103rd pick and then promptly switched him to WR, where he now plays for the Patriots. Go 2007 QB class! Go!

The Bengals drafted Jeff Rowe with the 151st pick. Who? Exactly.

The Ravens drafted Troy Smith with 174th pick. He made such an impression that they drafted Joe Flacco in the very next draft.

The Redskins drafted Jordan Palmer with the 205th pick. He now plays with his brother in Cincinnati and has done about as much in an NFL uniform as Jordan Farmar.

The Minnesota Vikings selected Tyler Thigpen in with the 217th pick in the 7th round. He was later dealt to Kansas City and now is in Miami. He at least put some decent stats for the Chiefs last year. Let’s put it this way, his 76.0 QB rating, 54.8% completion percentage, 2,608 yards, and 18:12 TD:INT ratio in 2008 are better than anything Quinn or Russell have even approached. And Thigpen played for a similarly crappy team.

Apparently 2007 was like some sort of bizarro draft in which QBs were drafted in inverse order of their future production. Am I embellishing a bit? Sure. But not by much.

So, in conclusion, the 2007 QB draft class featured two first round QBs, yet the two most productive players from that class have been a 3rd rounder who has oscillated in and out of the lineup and a 7th rounder who is now a backup with his third team.

In fact, it would not be unreasonable to state that the greatest contribution from the QB class of the 2007 NFL Draft is an iPhone app that tells you the most optimal times to take a wizz during a movie.

Now, I have neither the time nor the inclination to review each position from every draft in an effort to prove my hypothesis true. But I’d be willing to blindly bet $20 right now that there is not another position from a single draft more porous, putrid, and pathetic than the QBs from the 2007 NFL Draft.

If anyone wants to take the challenge, go right ahead. But you’ve got your work cut out for you. (So you probably shouldn’t ask JaMarcus Russell to help. In fact, shh…he’s taking a nap…the Raiders are in a meeting. )

**********

It’s Friday, so let’s run down the latest news on the most pertinent injuries affecting the Week 11 fantasy football landscape.

Week 11 Injury Status: Running Backs

Everyone knows by now that Brian Westbrook is out for this week and maybe many more weeks. Here is the news on the other injured running backs.

Cedric Benson Week 11 Injury Status Update: The surprise fantasy stud of 2009 still has not practiced this week and it is looking more and more like he will be out against Oakland on Sunday. This stinks for Benson owners because the Raiders are terrible against the run.

You should track this one though, as there is still an outside shot that Benson could be okay if his hip muscle responds positively over the next couple days. And FYI…the back to own for this week if Benson is out is Bernard Scott, not Larry Johnson.

Michael Turner Week 11 Injury Status Update: This is one of the biggest injuries of the season to date, especially with most leagues being in their regular season stretch run. Turner is dealing with an injured ankle and has not practiced this week. Though he has not ruled himself out of playing Sunday, it is expected that he’ll miss the Giants game. Jason Snelling and Jerious Norwood will be the fill-ins.

Ladell Betts Week 11 Injury Status Update: Clinton Portis has not practiced this week while dealing with a concussion and will most likely not play Sunday. Ladell Betts is Portis’ replacement and had over 100 yards last week. He has been dealing with a tender ankle however, which has limited him somewhat. He’s practiced the fully the last two days though so expect him to play and start against Dallas.

Reggie Bush Week 11 Injury Status Update: Reggie Bush has missed practiced all week with swelling and soreness in his left knee. He may very well be out on Sunday, and this is definitely an injury to monitor leading into the weekend. Even if he does play, you’d have to assume his explosiveness may be lessened somewhat. And what good is he without the usual explosion? I’d seek other flex options unless we start seeing reports that he’ll be at or near 100%.

Jamal Lewis Week 11 Injury Status Update: Lewis has only been participating in practice on a limited basis this week, but that’s not unusual. He should be in the lineup on Sunday and actually has a decent matchup against the Lions.

• Ahmad Bradshaw actually seems to be improving. He was not wearing the protective boot on Thursday and took some reps.
• Marion Barber continues to deal with a thumb injury that has limited him somewhat in pass-blocking situations. He is practicing fully though. Play him if you were planning to, but perhaps temper your expectations a bit.
• Cadillac Williams is back at practice and should be fine for Sunday.
• Julius Jones is definitely out with a chest injury. Justin Forsett is replacing him.
• Correll Buckhalter continues to be hindered by a knee injury and likely won’t play this weekend. Even if he does, he has not been very effective over the past month.

Week 11 Injury Status: Quarterbacks

Kyle Orton Week 11 Injury Status Update: Orton still has not practiced this week but desperately wants to be on the field for the Broncos’ pivotal home game this weekend against the Chargers. And after watching Chris Simms play last week, everyone involved with the Broncos wants Orton out there too. He has an ankle injury and it looks like he is going to be a game-time decision. I’d pencil in your alternative, but chances are Orton was just a backup for you anyway. If you’re counting on him to start, you’ll have to monitor what he does today and tomorrow.

Matthew Stafford Week 11 Injury Status Update: Stafford finally has was seems like a solid matchup this week (the Browns!). He is fully expected to start on Sunday despite being a limited practice participant early in the week.

Week 11 Injury Status: Wide Receivers

Roddy White Week 11 Injury Status Update: White didn’t practice on Wednesday and was limited on Thursday, but he is expected to play on Sunday. He has a right knee malady, but he’s been dealing with it the last few weeks and should be able to do so again in Week 11.

Antonio Bryant Week 11 Injury Status Update: Bryant has been back at practice this week, which is good. Still, nothing definitive has been ruled regarding his status. You’ll have to track this one leading into Sunday.

Steve Breaston Week 11 Injury Status Update: Breaston continues to be an underrated real-life and fantasy commodity. He’s been dealing with right knee issues for most of the season and continues to do so this week. He has been practicing on a limited basis but should be fine for Sunday. Just temper your expectations because he’s got Larry Fitzgerald and Anquan Boldin ahead of him on the depth chart.

• Laveraneus Coles should be ready to go for Sunday.
• Pierre Garcon practiced fully on Friday and should be good to go Sunday.
• Joshua Cribbs was back at practice on Thursday, which is great news for Browns fans. His status for Sunday is unknown.
• Mike Wallace of the Steelers missed Wednesday’s practice with an illness. He’s expected to play Sunday against KC.
• Bernard Berrian continues to be hobbled with a tender hamstring. He should play Sunday.

Week 11 Injury Status: Tight Ends

• Todd Heap did not participate in practice Thursday while dealing with a chest injury. He is expected to play Sunday though.

**********

* – Cedric Benson photo credit: Bengals Official Message Board

A couple of things struck me recently regarding how bad things are in 2009 for the Cleveland Browns and their fans.

Anyone who has watched a game this season knows just how bad the team is, but a few things have happened this week that go beyond the offensive offensive numbers (repetition intended) and the record to truly illustrate what a putrid season this has become.

First off, there may be no bigger indictment of the sorry state of the Browns than this: the Detroit Lions, a team that went 0-16 a year ago and has won only one game this year, is a 3.5 point favorite over the Browns this weekend.

But wait…there’s more.

Entering Week 11, which begins the stretch playoff run for any team worth half a crap, the biggest story involving the Cleveland Browns doesn’t even involve anyone on their own team. It revolves around whether a basketball player would make a good football player.

Even more amazing, it’s not just fans talking about it, but Browns players and coaches are addressing the issue as well. (Our friends at Waiting For Next Year also noted just how terrible of a sign this is for the Browns.)

When you’ve scored five touchdowns in 15 games, I guess you can’t really blame these guys for practicing a little bit of escapism. Plus, does anyone really doubt that LeBron James could throw on some pads and cleats tomorrow and become the biggest threat on the Browns’ offense?

Don’t get me wrong: as great as LeBron’s athletic ability is, that is much more of an indictment of the Browns than any faith I have in his football ability.

Cleveland fans should be careful though. They may be jinxing their King by mentioning him in the same sentence as the Browns. Is it a coincidence that on the same day all of this Lebron-on-the-Browns talk escalated that the Cavs lost to the Wizards and LeBron hurt his wrist?

Maybe…maybe not.

But perhaps nothing though sums up the 2009 Cleveland Browns season more than what happened at the end of the Browns-Ravens Monday Night game earlier this week.

The Browns called a timeout before their final play of the game, presumably to try something, anything, in a desperation move to avoid a shutout. On the ensuing play, the Browns’ only productive offensive player – Josh Cribbs – was injured while running around and lateraling the football. He had to be placed on a stretcher and taken to the hospital.

The problem is that it was the Browns fourth timeout of the second half. As we all know, teams only get three timeouts per half. And, of course, the Browns did not score on the play en route to a 16-0 home shutout loss.

The moral of the story? Even when fortune seemingly smiles down upon the Browns and throws them a bone (so to speak), it turns into a complete and utter disaster.

And that, ladies and gentleman, should be the name for the official Browns 2009 Season in Review DVD.

Complete and Utter Disaster.

It is the most apt description possible for a season that continues to just get worse and worse…and worse.

Oh, and if you think I’m just plaintively wallowing in woe-is-me nonsense all by my lonesome, do a quick Google Image search for “browns fans” and then examine the first page. There is nothing but Browns fans looking miserable (except for the strange picture of the lady dressed up as the Browns’ elf).

I guess seasons like this are what you sign up for when you become a Browns fan. But even by the Browns’ lofty standards, what has transpired this year has been pathetic.

Thanks for reading. I’m going to back to doing what Randy Lerner is probably doing right now: daydreaming.

**********

* – Browns fan photo credit: Tracy Boulian via the The Plain Dealer

Today is the third Thursday in November, which means one thing and one thing only to me and many of you reading this: we are now officially one week away from the greatest meal of the year.

We are also one week away from a day when it is generally accepted in most households that the TV will be tuned to football all day long.

And, of course, we’re one week away from being able to share a wonderful day with friends and family and let them know that we are thankful for their presence in our lives.

But you don’t need our help with that. You’re here for one thing and one thing only: the Thanksgiving Day TV schedule for the NFL and college football games that will accompany our turkey, stuffing, pumpkin pie, and eventual food coma.

Let’s get right to it.

Keep in mind that I am posting this on November 19th. So, depending on when you view this, some of the information may be incomplete. For example, point spread and over-under info won’t be available until Monday, and I’m not sure yet who is announcing the Texas-Texas A&M game Thanksgiving night.

But bookmark this page and, like we did with last year’s Thanksgiving Day football TV schedule, we’ll get it all worked out for you a few days before Thanksgiving.

NFL Thanksgiving Day TV Schedule

Green Bay Packers at Detroit Lions

• Packers-Lions Date: Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, November 26th
• Packers-Lions Kickoff Time: 12:30 PM
• Packers-Lions TV Network: FOX
• Packers-Lions Announcers: Joe Buck and Troy Aikman
• Packers-Lions Point Spread: TBA
• Packers-Lions Over-Under: TBA
• Packers-Lions Spread Pick: TBA

Oakland Raiders at Dallas Cowboys

• Raiders-Cowboys Date: Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, November 26th
• Raiders-Cowboys Kickoff Time: 4:15 PM
• Raiders-Cowboys TV Network: CBS
• Raiders-Cowboys Announcers: Jim Nantz and Phil Simms
• Raiders-Cowboys Point Spread: TBA
• Raiders-Cowboys Over-Under: TBA
• Raiders-Cowboys Spread Pick: TBA

New York Giants at Denver Broncos

• Giants-Broncos Date: Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, November 26th
• Giants-Broncos Kickoff Time: 8:20 PM
• Giants-Broncos TV Network: NFL Network
• Giants-Broncos Announcers: Bob Papa and Matt Millen
• Giants-Broncos Point Spread: TBA
• Giants-Broncos Over-Under: TBA
• Giants-Broncos Spread Pick: TBA

NCAA College Football Thanksgiving Day TV Schedule

Texas Longhorns at Texas A&M Aggies

• Texas-Texas A&M Date: Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, November 26th
• Texas-Texas A&M Kickoff Time: 8:00 PM
• Texas-Texas A&M TV Network: ESPN
• Texas-Texas A&M Announcers: TBA
• Texas-Texas A&M Point Spread: TBA…but it will be Texas by a lot.
• Texas-Texas A&M Over-Under: TBA
• Texas-Texas A&M Spread Pick: TBA

This is the only game that is actually on Thanksgiving, but there are plenty of intriguing matchups on Friday, including:

• Illinois at Cincinnati (not that Illinois really has a chance, but…)
• Alabama at Auburn
• Pittsburgh at West Virginia
• Nevada at Boise State

We will obviously have all of the information for those games when we post our Week 13 college football TV schedule on Saturday night or Sunday of this week.

Enjoy your Thanksgiving of food, family, and football everyone. I know I will.

**********

* – Lions fan ready for Thanksgiving photo credit: AP via MLive.com

Week 10 has passed and fantasy owners are on the grind to get over the top and make a run to either lock up a playoff spot, or are trying to thrash their way into a playoff spot.

Regardless of your position, you are here to see what week 11 has in store, so let’s get to it with our weekly play ‘em/bench ‘em feature here at MSF.

Among the players featured this week: Beanie Wells, Kellen Winslow, Steve Smith (Panthers), Knowshon Moreno, Marshawn Lynch, and Roy Williams.

Quick note: If you need any sleepers or waiver wire steals, check out PFI’s Week 11 Sleepers and Waiver Wire Steals.

Also, the format of Play Em / Bench Em is a little different this week, with it being more of a “quick hit” format to give you more information on more players.

Must Starts – These players are must starts on your team if you own them, and need no explanation. Put them in your lineup and do not remove them. These guys are capable of 20+ point weeks every Sunday…especially this Sunday…and you don’t ever want to miss out.

• Chris Johnson
• Maurice Jones-Drew
• Adrian Peterson
• Andre Johnson
• Kurt Warner
• Larry Fitzgerald
• Steven Jackson
• Brett Farve
• Peyton Manning
• Tom Brady
• Randy Moss
• Aaron Rodgers
• Ray Rice
• Reggie Wayne
• Donovan McNabb

Play ‘Em Quick Hits:

Steve Smith – WR – Panthers.  I passed onto everyone last week to start Smith, who by every measure has suffered tremendously from his quarterback’s poor performance this year.  Smith is still an incredible receiver coming off of a 2 TD performance.  Hopefully this will give Smith momentum going forward.  Play him.

Kellen Winslow – TE – Buccaneers. Winslow has had two good weeks in a row, and after his 7 grabs for 102 yards last week, it is clear that he and rookie QB Josh Freeman are on the same page. Tampa faces the undefeated Saints at home this week, which is not a favorable match up, but if the Buccs are going to have any success through the air, Winslow will be involved. Play him.

(Note: Jerod also recommended Winslow as a Week 11 start in his Week 11 start ‘em, sit ‘em column.)

Beanie Wells – RB – Cardinals. Beanie is coming off of an 85 rushing yard, 2 TD performance. Wells has more abilities than does counterpart Tim Hightower, as Wells has big play abilities. The Cardinals are facing the Rams, and the Cardinals will be able to explore all facets of their offensive game this week. Play him.

To see the rest of my “Play ems” for Week 11, click here.

Bench ‘Em Quick Hits:

Roy E. Williams – WR – Cowboys. On paper, Roy had a great game last week against the Packers in a losing effort as he had 5 grabs, 105 yards and a touchdown. What you don’t see on the stat sheet was the dropped, more than catchable balls, or the fumble on what most likely would have resulted in another touchdown had he not lost possession of the ball. The look of disgust on Tony Romo’s face was obvious after the drop, as I anticipate Romo to look for Jason Witten and Miles Austin more this week, as they face a gritty Redskins defense. Bench him, unless you’re me and you have to start em.

Knowshon Moreno – RB – Broncos. Moreno will face the Chargers this week minus starting QB Kyle Orton. Moreno’s visit to San Diego earlier in the year resulted in the following stat line; 18 carries for 44 yards. Now I anticipate the Chargers forcing the Broncos to have to pass, as Chris Simms does not strike fear into any defenses. The Chargers will key in on the run and force Simms to beat them. Bench him.

Marshawn Lynch – RB – Bills. Since Lynch’s return after his 4 game suspension, he has only has 1 TD on the year, and has not rushed for 70 yards or more yet on the season. Until the Bills can keep their QB standing, and can block for their running backs, Lynch has little to no value. Bench him, and all of your Bills.

To see the rest of my “Bench ems” for Week 11, click here.

Again, if you need sleepers or waiver wire steals, click here.

If I did not cover someone who you were looking for advise on, leave a question in the comments section below. Become a fan of ProFootballinsight on Facebook or follow fraschettik on Twitter for instant article notifications.

Check out PFI’s Fantasy Football Mid-Season Awards.

Kurt Fraschetti / ProFootballinsight

Kurt@ProFootballinsight.net

**********

* – Beanie Wells photo credit:Tony Kurdzuk/The Star-Ledger via NJ.com

Try these football picks on for size. We look at the upcoming Dolphins-Panthers Thursday night game, plus the Steelers-Chiefs and Bengals-Raiders matchups on Sunday.

Note: Follow the link for spread info and picks for all games on the NFL Week 11 schedule.

Miami Dolphins @ Carolina Panthers

Thursday, November 19, 8:20 p.m. ET

Dolphins-Panthers Sportsbook favorite: Panthers -3

As crazy as it sounds, the Panthers are creeping back into the NFC playoff picture. DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart are running wild, recapturing their late-season form of 2008, and Carolina leads the conference in rushing. Somehow, Jake Delhomme hasn’t thrown an interception in three weeks. He’s starting to re-establish his rapport with Steve Smith, who scored twice in Week 10. Against a shaky Miami secondary, Delhomme may survive yet again.

The Dolphins’ usually great rushing attack loses some luster without Ronnie Brown (injured foot) and they won’t throw successfully against the Panthers No. 4 pass defense, so all signs point to a Panthers victory.

Sports betting Dolphins-Panthers pick: Panthers -3

Pittsburgh Steelers @ Kansas City Chiefs

Sunday, November 22, 1:00 p.m. ET

Steelers-Chiefs Sportsbook favorite: Steelers -10

Who’s left to make plays for Kansas City? Larry Johnson is Cincinnati-bound. Dwayne Bowe is suspended. That leaves Jamaal Charles to battle a No. 1 Pittsburgh run “D” that handled Chris Johnson, Cedric Benson and Adrian Peterson just fine. Not only that, but the Steelers are angry after losing at home to Cincinnati in Week 10.

The Chiefs can’t stop the run or the pass, so Pittsburgh should romp whether they choose to air it out via Ben Roethlisberger or run the ball down K.C.’s throat via Rashard Mendenhall.

Sports betting Steelers-Chiefs pick: Steelers -10

Cincinnati Bengals @ Oakland Raiders

Sunday, November 22, 4:15 p.m. ET

Bengals-Raiders odds: Bengals -9.5

Call it a hunch, but I like the Raiders to beat the 9.5-point spread. Doing so would defy logic but so does everything else about the Bengals’ 2009 season.

Almost no one picked them to beat the Steelers on the road last week and they won. Wouldn’t it be Bengals-esque to not cover the spread against Oakland of all teams? The Black Hole still isn’t an easy place to play and Oakland’s pass defense is a respectable 14^th in the NFL. Maybe they capitalize on Cedric Benson’s absence and keep this game close and low-scoring?

Sounds crazy, but is the idea any crazier than the Raiders beating the Eagles in Week 6?

Raiders-Bengals Sports betting pick: Raiders +9.5

There is no joy in Cleveland, the mighty Quinn has gone three and out; kick return man and wildcat Cribbs has gone down.

A fan at Cleveland Browns Stadium for the Monday Night debacle against the Ravens, held up a sign that said it all: “Hey, Baltimore, can you take this team, too?”

After suffering through another day of depression and frustration over the state of these Cleveland Browns’ pretenders, (remember, the Browns did not “come back” in 1999; late owner Al Lerner accepted a nameless, nearly talent-less expansion team and named it the Browns), Browns fans’ hope the end of the nine-game Coach Eric Mangini Era is near.

Even though Browns owner Randy Lerner said he would not fire his incompetent, arrogant little field general and dictator this season, a seriously injured Cribbs would have had Mangini packing, as well as his clueless offensive (yes, his lame playcalling is offensive) coordinator Brian Dabold.  Cribbs, a brilliant kick-off and punt return man, is a fan favorite and heart of the team.

It was in the final seconds of the 16-0 game that Cribbs was blindsided and knocked to the turf. This came after lateraling the ball to a teammate in a desperation mad dash to score six points. (Why? Because losing 16-6 would have looked better?)

The nearly empty stadium became even more silent as Browns and Ravens players surrounded Josh while he was lifted gently onto a stretcher. Cribbs was released Tuesday morning from the hospital, and Mangini, admitted in a conference call (yes, Coach opted to skip his regular face to face press conference)that he should not have allowed the hook-and-ladder play.

Brady Quinn did what he could with Daboll’s calls for five-yard bubble passes, a non-running game and receivers who let the ball slip through their hands. Game analysts figured Quinn had 2.5 seconds to take the snap, read the defense, find an open receiver and throw the ball — before getting leveled by Baltimore’s D.

After the last interception, Quinn tackled the wrong Raven too low, knocking his feet from under him and causing serious injury. This led Baltimore defense captain Ray Lewis to call Quinn out for the dirty hit. Quinn said he didn’t mean to hurt anyone — and I believe him.

Brady was so distraught, he probably didn’t know who had the ball.

Quinn has got to be lobbying his agent for a ticket out of Cleveland. Back-up quarterback Derek Anderson is also demoralized by Mangini and his schizophrenic quarterback shuffling.

The result is, neither Quinn nor Derek Anderson can move the offense into the red zone. Their egos are bruised, their confidence shot and trade value practically nil.

After a short practice week, the Browns head to Detroit to face the Lions on Sunday. (The first team to score a touchdown, wins the game.)

There is one flickering light at the end of the tunnel: Word came down from Berea Tuesday that Randy Lerner met with former Seattle Seahawks Head Coach Mike Holmgren about a director of Browns operations position, with authority over personnel — including the right to fire the coach.

One can only hope.

So last week our dearest editor, Jerod Morris, decided to take a brutal and vicious attack at my power rankings, claiming I didn’t have the stones to pick a first place team or give credit to two teams in 14th and 15th places.

[Editor's note: Honestly, it's not just that you didn't have the stones to make the tough choices last week; it's that you don't have stones...period.]

This week, I have risen to his challenge, and chosen a clear-cut 1st place team as well as giving 14th and 15th places to deserving teams.

[Editor's note: Round of applause everybody! The guy doing the Power Rankings picked someone at #'s 1, 14, and 15! All right! Anyone got a cookie for Myles?]

However, now I am going to issue our editor-in-chief a challenge of my own. Each week he throws in his editors’ notes, criticizing my rankings, only because of his bitterness that his Cleveland Browns have only one win in nine weeks.

My challenge: I challenge you, Jerod Morris, to give us YOUR top 15 teams, and allow ME to edit next week’s post. The gauntlet has been thrown J-Rod, do you accept:

[Editor's note: Sure, whatever. I accept. But trying to produce better Power Rankings than you is like playing quarterback better than Brady Quinn and Derek Anderson. It's not really a challenge.]

Onto the Week 11 Power Rankings:

1. Indianapolis Colts (Last 1 [0])

Yet another “Bullitt” the Colts have dodged. Or should I say the “Bullitt” stopped the Colts from losing their first of the year.

After trailing nearly the entire game, Peyton Manning and the Colts worked their way back in the late minutes of their matchup with the Pats, and trailed 34-28 with 2:08 left in the game.

As the Pats made their attempt to go for it, Colts safety Melvin Bullitt, who is the replacement for the injured Bob Sanders, stopped Kevin Faulk short of a first down, which led to Manning’s go-ahead touchdown pass to Reggie Wayne. This play led the way to the Colts’ 35-34 victory over the Patriots, all but giving the Colts home field advantage in the AFC.

Now they head to Baltimore hoping to keep their undefeated streak, which is now up to 18, intact.

[Editor's note: For the record, great call by Belichick to go for it. I'd rather keep the ball in the hands of my Hall of Fame QB. You need two yards and you win the game, knowing that Peyton probably marches the Colts 70 yards as easy as he marches them 30. I go for the two and the win. You can't judge the decision just by whether or not it worked. I didn't even blink when I saw that they went for it.

Let me guess though, Stoneless Wonder Myles. You would have punted right? Just like you punted on picking a 1st place team last week? I thought so. Moving on...]

2. New Orleans Saints (Last 1 [-1])

New Orleans falls to second place in my Power Rankings, even though they have also stayed a perfect 9-0. However, they struggled against a poor St. Louis team, squeaking out a 28-23 win.

New Orleans has all but clinched the NFC South, and now, as long as they can continue their winning ways, they are setting themselves up for a first round bye and perhaps a deep run into the playoffs.

[Editor's Note: So New Orleans wins on the road by five and yet they drop below a team that wins by one at home in a game that they were outplayed in for the most part? If anything, I would think your decision would be harder this week. Oh wait, I forgot, you see everything with blue-and-white colored glasses. Typical Colts fan.]

3. Minnesota Vikings (Last 3 [0])

Minus their 4th quarter collapse against Pittsburgh, all the Vikings have done this year is win. After their commanding 27-10 victory against Detroit, Minnesota has now taken a 3-game lead in the NFC North, and seems to be cruising to what could be a first round bye.

All of those who doubted and cursed Favre’s name? Don’t say I didn’t tell you so.

Sidney Rice continues to be a deep threat, as he posted a league leading 201 yards receiving this past weekend. Minnesota will meet up next week against the struggling Seattle Seahawks.

4. Cincinnati Bengals (Last 5 [+1])

I believe! Who Dey!

“Dey” are the Cincinnati Bengals, and “Dey” have now beaten Pittsburgh and Baltimore twice this season. “Dey” are now 7-2 and have a one game lead in the AFC North against Pittsburgh, and they own the tie breaker.

And to complicate the matters, the Bengals expect Cedric Benson to return this week; however, they have signed KC problem child Larry Johnson.

[Editor's note: "Dey" ought to remove your privileges for posting these Power Rankings. Oh wait, that would refer to me. Nah, I have too much fun mocking them. I love all the people who have Cincy this high in their Power Rankings, but would pick the Patriots, Chargers, or even the Steelers to beat them if they played next week. We'll see how mcuh you "believe" come playoff time.]

5. New England Patriots (Last 4 [-1])

Well, well, well….

The Master has fallen to the fool.

How the hell do you go for it on 4th and two on your own 28, and even risk giving Manning the ball with two minutes and less than 30 yards to go for the winning score.

You punt the ball. Stop.

Now you find yourself 6-3 and most likely your road to the Super Bowl will include a trip to Indianapolis, instead of making them come to you. For New England’s sake, I hope they can recover from this.

[Editor's Note: Pardon me while I laugh my ass off as Myles tries to act sympathetic towards the Patriots. You know you don't want the Patriots to recover because you know you don't want to face them in the playoffs. New England was the better team for most of the night, but Peyton single-handedly rescued the Colts again. The truth is, the Patriots had about a 75% chance to make that first down and ice the game, but they didn't. I still like those odds, and if New England does play Indy again, I think the results are different.

The Colts have been playing with fire a lot this season and it's going to come back an haunt them...maybe soon. This is always a team (the exception being last year) that starts out the season well but fades. We'll see. But you're not fooling anyone with your feigned sympathy for the Patriots. Don't even try it.]

6. San Diego Chargers (Last 13 [+7])

These guys never say die. I’m beginning to believe that the Norv Turner Way is to give Denver a head start on the AFC West division, then snatch it from them in the waning weeks of the season.

The Chargers were able to hang onto a victory against the Eagles, who have now lost two straight behind the strong two touchdown performance by LaDainian Tomlinson. Now they are tied with the Broncos for the lead in the AFC West, and control their own destiny to the playoffs.

7. Pittsburgh Steelers (Last 6 [-1])

Pittsburgh has now lost twice this year to the surprising Bengals, and if they make the playoffs, it would be as a Wild Card team. Obviously, the Steelers can still win the division, but they need a collapse from Cincy, which given the way they are playing of late, is most likely not going to happen.

However, don’t let that get you down Steel City fans, your team seems to play better as a Wild Card.

8. Arizona Cardinals (Last 12 [+4])

Arizona has now taken a commanding lead of their division as they defeated their division foes, the Seattle Seahawks. Next week, they will likely continue their winning ways as they travel to St. Louis to play the dismal Rams.

Kurt Warner is playing like he’s 25 and, oh yeah, he is throwing to Larry Fitzgerald. This team may be better than we all would like to admit.

9. Dallas Cowboys (Last 7 [-2])

Tony Romo’s streak of November wins has ended. Or perhaps, December has come early for Romo and coach Wade Phillips.

I’ve been warning you all that December was coming for this team, and now two weeks before the dreaded month comes, the Packers virtually shut the Cowboys out (minus a late, meaningless touchdown).

I still haven’t bought this team, and the only reason they will likely win their division is because the rest of the NFC East can’t decide whether they want to actually play football or not.

10. Denver Broncos (Last 9 [-1])

Three in a row.

After Denver started off 6-0, they have now dropped three in a row, the latest disappointment being a loss to Washington, the NFL’s redheaded step child.

To make things worse, Kyle Orton injured his ankle in this game, and may be out for a few weeks. This is horrific news to a team that finds themselves tied for the division lead with San Diego.

Could they lose their division late to the Chargers for a second straight year?

One more thing….San Diego comes to town this week in what is a must win for Denver. Not exactly the game you want on the schedule when you need to right the ship without your starting QB.

Uh-oh.

11. Philadelphia Eagles (Last 10 [-1])

This just in from the “Redundancy Department of Redundancy”:

Brian Westbrook is hurt.

Again.

Westbrook has sustained yet another concussion, and perhaps could be done for the season.

Luckily for Philly, Dallas lost as well last week, giving Philly hope that they can still compete for the NFC East. Donovan McNabb continues to fire the ball however, throwing for over 500 yards against the Chargers, nearly leading them to a comeback victory.

Next week they head to the struggling Bears, where both teams desperately need a win.

12. Houston Texans (Last 11 [-1])

Houston was on bye this week, following their disappointing loss to the Indianapolis Colts, and with Jacksonville’s win, they find themselves at 5-4 and tied with Jax for 2nd in the AFC South.

This week they host the very hot Titans and Vince Young on Monday Night Football.

13. Jacksonville Jaguars (Last Not Ranked)

Jacksonville is starting to get hot, and it’s at the right time.

With seven games left to go in the season, Jax is 5-4 and on the outside looking in on the playoffs, but MJD is running strong and this team is set up to make a run. This week the Jags hope to improve their standings as T.O. and the Bills come to town.

[Editor's note: Wow. Houston and Jacksonville both in your Power Rankings. Think there is an AFC South bias here folks? Just a little bit? I think we both know that you'd pick the Ravens and Giants, and probably some other teams too, to beat the Jaguars if they played. Once again, however, you don't have the stones to make the right call in your Power Rankings. Typical.]

14. Baltimore Ravens (Last Not Ranked)

After a scoreless first half against the Browns (the first of the entire NFL season), young talent Ray Rice scored the first touchdown of the game, and on the next offensive play the Ravens’ defense intercepted Brady Quinn and took it to the house. A blocked PAT and a field goal later, they would leave Cleveland with a 16-0 victory.

Next week the Ravens host undefeated Indianapolis, which could be a definite statement game for Baltimore.

[Editor's note: More light-hitting analysis from Little MB. Every game is a statement game for every team. Why not step out on a limb and tell us what kind of statement the Ravens will make? Or are you take scared? I think you know that the statement is going to be a W, and your precious Colts are going to experience their first loss of the season. This has letdown game written all over it, and even Peyton Manning's greatness won't be able to bail the Colts out this time.]

15. New York Giants (Last Not Ranked)

• They didn’t lose this week
• They improved their standing in the NFC East due to not playing, and Philly and Dallas losing their individual match-ups.

[Editor's note: Ladies and gentleman, this is all you need to know about the criteria for Big MB's Power Rankings. "Don't play and we'll rank ya'!" Makes perfect sense to me."Hmm...Jerod is going to call me out if I don't come up with a 15th team, so let me just make the biggest cop-out pick ever and take a New York team."

Congrats Big MB. Round of applause.

And yes, I accept your "challenge". You'll get owned next week, as always.]

**********

* – Peyton Manning photo credit: Real Clear Sports

Via KCChiefsBlog.com, Chiefs WR Dwayne Bowe has been suspended for using performance enhancing drugs.

His suspension will reportedly begin immediately.

The Kansas City Chiefs website has confirmed KCChiefsBlog.com’s report of Bowe’s suspension for PED use.

The Kansas City Star also has this to say about Bowe’s suspension:

Chiefs wide receiver Dwayne Bowe has been suspended four games for violating the NFL’s policy on performance-enhancing substances.

League spokesman Corry Rush announced the suspension in an e-mail, and the Chiefs have acknowledged Bowe’s suspension.

I guess this answers the questions I was getting earlier today in our Week 11 start ‘em, sit ‘em post regarding whether Bowe should play this weekend, huh?

For the season, Dwayne Bowe has 33 catches for 466 yards and 4 TDs, which puts him a little bit off pace in relation to his 2007 and 2008 numbers. I guess the “performance enhancing” part didn’t really come to fruition.

Update: Here are a couple of excellent points regarding the suspension of Dwayne Bowe from Pro Football Talk:

The specific substance for which he tested positive isn’t known, and it’s possible that the violation occurred in 2008 or earlier. It’s also possible that Bowe didn’t test positive; some players have been suspended based on evidence of possession of banned substances.

And here is more good news for Browns fans, who have the Chiefs on their schedule later this year: Bowe will miss the next four games and then be back in time to face Cleveland. If you’ve been following the Browns this year, it makes perfect sense that it would work out this way.

Update: Here is more Adam Schefter in a couple of tweets posted a few minutes ago:

From what I gather, Chiefs WR Dwayne Bowe was trying to lose weight in training camp and took a diuretic.

Bowe found out about his suspension earlier this month and has decided not to appeal it. He knows those are battles players don’t win.

**********

* – Dwayne Bowe photo credit: ChiefsTailgate.net

Week 10 is gone and you are now one of four people.

You are one of the few who are cruising your way into the playoffs, in the driver’s seat, in first place…

Or are you the one who would be in the playoffs right now if the season ended today, but you have three weeks left and a ton of pressure from the teams right below you…

Or you are one of the many who are clawing their way from being one of the non-playoff teams and trying everything to move into one of the final playoff spots…

Or is your season done and now you are just trying to screw everyone else.

Regardless of which one you are, (hopefully you’re in groups one through three) you are reading this because you are looking for more information to help you this week.

So who are this week’s sleepers and waiver wire steals?

Week 11 Sleepers and Waiver Wire Steals

Week 11 Sleeper Pick: Justin Forsett – RB – Seahawks

After starter Julius Jones left Sunday’s game with a chest injury and did not return, Justin Forsett, in his second year out of the University of California, took full advantage of his opportunities. Forsett went off for 123 yards on 17 carries with a touchdown. He also added 5 catches for 26 yards.

Jones’ status at this point is not clear, but in the event that Jones is not available, Forsett is a viable starter. Even if Jones plays, Forsett earned carries off of this performance.

Week 11 Waiver Wire Steal: Jason Avant – WR – Eagles

There is a ton of talent on the offensive side of the ball for the Eagles, and as I say so often, not enough footballs to go around; but, Jason Avant’s performance last week makes him an option if you are looking for a WR that is available this week. Avant had 8 grabs for 156 yards on 9 targets from McNabb.

With Brian Westbrook’s health being an issue again this week, McNabb will once again have to carry the load. The Eagles are facing the Chicago Bears on primetime Sunday night football. The Bears defense, with the exception of last week, has been more than generous to opposing offenses through the air. Just ask Kurt Warner, who threw 5 TDs against Chicago. Avant is available in over 98% of fantasy football leagues, so grab him if you need him.

Follow the link for the rest of PFI’s Week 11 sleepers and waiver wire steals.

You can also read PFI’s Week 11 Play ‘em or Bench ‘em picks later in the week.

Kurt Fraschetti / ProFootballinsight.net

Kurt@ProFootballinsight.net

**********

* – Justin Forsett photo credit: David Paul Morris/Getty Images via SeattlePI.com

The Browns got their asses handed to them again last night in another embarrassing offensive performance that culminated in a 16-0 shutout.

But nothing the offense did (or didn’t do) could match the collective fear and frustration felt when Josh Cribbs needlessly went down on the last play of the game and then had to be taken off the field on a stretcher.

Let’s forget for a moment how asinine it was for the team to run a “hook and ladder” play with the game out of reach and get to the important stuff: this morning’s Josh Cribbs injury update.

The latest Cribbs injury update, according to the Plain-Dealer, is that Cribbs was taken to the hospital immediately after last night’s game and is being evaluated for a concussion.

He was reportedly placed on the stretcher as a precautionary measure, but was said to have been laughing and joking with teammates as he was carted off the field. He was also reportedly experiencing full movement in his extremeties.

I’m not sure there are words for how relieved this news will make Browns fans, his teammates, and the organization.

Not only is Josh Cribbs the only bright and exciting spot for the Cleveland Browns right now, but he is about as high a character guy as there is. For example, this past week it was reported that Cribbs attended the senior night for the son of his former coach at Kent State, who is now deceased. Cribbs accompanied his former coach’s wife as she walked her son out on Senior night.

That’s Joshua Cribbs for you.

So while you never want anyone to get hurt during a sporting event, Cribbs is the kind of guy that you really don’t want to see get hurt. He plays his heart out on every play of every game, regardless of whether the Browns have a chance to win or not, and he embodies everything that we want our athletes to be in terms of providing a positive example for young people to follow.

You’d think that kind of thing would be rewarded by the pathetic organization for which he plays — the same organization that professes it wants to build around “high character” players — but so far Cribbs does not have a new contract. And before you argue and say that he should play out his current deal, consider for a quick second what happened last night.

In the NFL, everything can be taken away from a player in a split second. They have to take care of themselves and their families by using leverage when they have it. The Browns organization will continue on if Josh Cribbs ever gets seriously injuried; his career will not.

I have no problem with Cribbs seeking a new deal, especially when he obviously deserves it and when he says Randy Lerner promised him one.

Anyway, sorry…I didn’t mean to go off on a tangent there. Last night was just a reminder of how important Cribbs is to the Browns and how much he needs to be a centerpiece of the rebuilding project.

I don’t know why he was even on the field in that situation. Actually, I take that back…all it takes is one glance over to the sideline to know exactly why such an idiotic call would be made.

Bud Shaw put it best at the Plain-Dealer website this morning in his article about Josh Cribbs’ injury:

Three seconds left on your half of the field, down 16 points, why do anything except take a knee?

Why the Browns ran a fire drill play that ended with Josh Cribbs carted off the field because his head didn’t swivel fast enough goes into the unanswerable file in an unfathomable season, Eric Mangini’s first and perhaps only here.

That’s not the question being asked around the rest of the country, no doubt. The question being asked around the rest of the country after the Browns 16-0 loss to Baltimore: “Any chance there’s an Antique Roadshow marathon we could watch instead?”

But given the obvious doubts some Browns have about their head coach as voiced by Jamal Lewis last week, the final play of a forgettable game is another log on the three-alarm fire licking at Mangini.

I’d like to, I really would…I’m trying to stay as positive as possible…but I cannot disagree at all.

Also read this update on Josh Cribbs’ injury from Waiting For Next Year, with some quotes from Brady Quinn and Mohammed Massaquoi.

Update: Cribbs has been released from the hospital according to FoxSports.

**********

* – Josh Cribbs photo credit:Tony Dejak/Associated Press via The Plain-Dealer

BAM! Now that’s what I call a comeback.

After two straight sub-.500 weeks that had me one more really bad week away from the .500 line for the year, I dominated in Week 10. After a 12-3 record picking against the spread, I am now up to 78-58 on the year, which is a very solid 57% success rate.

With how zany and unpredictable the NFL is, and considering the fact that I pick these games based on gut instinct at the beginning of the week, I will take that all day long.

But there is no time to revel in past glory. It’s already Tuesday morning and another week of NFL football starts in less than 72 hours on Thursday night.

As always, here is your TV schedule, announcer lineup, and spread picks for each game.

A couple of quick things to keep in mind:

• The bye weeks are over. Everyone is playing this week.
• All times are ET.
• Some games do not have all of the information filled in as of this post being published (i.e. a few games don’t have spreads yet and the announcer assignments have not yet been announced). I’ll up date this post as soon as the information is available at the506.com.
• Point spread and over-under listings are as of Monday night, and obviously subject to change throughout the week. If you want update point spread info, or some expert advice as you make your weekly picks, below are a few helpful links.
• DocSports: NFL Odds
• DocSports: NFL Picks

And with all that said, here is your mood music and the Week Eleven TV schedule, point spreads, announcers, free picks, and byes.

NFL Week 11 Viewer’s Guide

TV Schedule – Announcers – Kickoff Times

Point Spreads – Free Picks – Odds – Over-Unders

Miami Dolphins at Carolina Panthers

• Dolphins-Pathers Date: Thursday, November 19th
• Dolphins-Pathers Kickoff Time: 8:20
• Dolphins-Pathers TV Network: NFLN
• Dolphins-Pathers Announcers: Bob Papa and Matt Millen
• Dolphins-Pathers Point Spread: Panthers -3
• Dolphins-Pathers Over-Under: 43.5
• Dolphins-Pathers Spread Pick: Both of these teams bring great rushing attacks into this one, which will make it a terrific old-school football game. The key for the Panthers, as always, will be protecting the ball and allowing DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart to dominate on the ground. Jake Delhomme has been playing better of late, and with the Dolphins likely without Ronnie Brown, this is a game the streaking Panthers should win. Dolphins-Panthers free pick: Panthers -3

Pittsburgh Steelers at Kansas City Chiefs

• Steelers-Chiefs Date: Sunday, November 22nd
• Steelers-Chiefs Kickoff Time: 1:00
• Steelers-Chiefs TV Network: CBS
• Steelers-Chiefs Announcers: Ian Eagle and Rich Gannon
• Steelers-Chiefs Point Spread: Steelers -10
• Steelers-Chiefs Over-Under: 40
• Steelers-Chiefs Spread Pick: Oh how I pity the Chiefs. The Steelers are going to be riled up coming off of their loss to the Bengals and they are good enough to take it out on Kansas City. I know that Big Ben looked rusty last week, but I think this is a game where the Steelers’ running and passing games can get back on track. Steelers win going away. Steelers-Chiefs free pick: Steelers -10

Atlanta Falcons at New York Giants

• Falcons-Giants Date: Sunday, November 22nd
• Falcons-Giants Kickoff Time: 1:00
• Falcons-Giants TV Network: FOX
• Falcons-Giants Announcers: Kenny Albert, Daryl Johnston, and Tony Siragusa
• Falcons-Giants Point Spread: Giants -6.5
• Falcons-Giants Over-Under: 46
• Falcons-Giants Spread Pick: The Falcons are really struggling and will most likely be without Michael Turner. The Giants are also reeling, but will be fresh coming off of their bye week and also get cornerback Aaron Ross back. I think we are going to start some better from football from the Giants and it will start Sunday. There is no line as of me making these picks, but I’m taking the Giants. That’s how confident I am in their ability to win this one, and win it handily. Falcons-Giants free pick: Giants minus whatever the spread is

New Orleans Saints at Tampa Bay Buccaneers

• Saints-Buccaneers Date: Sunday, November 22nd
• Saints-Buccaneers Kickoff Time: 1:00
• Saints-Buccaneers TV Network: FOX
• Saints-Buccaneers Announcers: Sam Rosen and Tim Ryan
• Saints-Buccaneers Point Spread: Saints -11
• Saints-Buccaneers Over-Under: 50.5
• Saints-Buccaneers Spread Pick: Look, Tampa Bay’s play over the last two weeks has been cute. They beat Green Bay and played the Dolphins tough. Neither of those teams, however, is anywhere near as good as New Orleans. There is no way that Josh Freeman is competing with Drew Brees and the Saints got all the wake-up call they needed last week against the Rams. The Saints will dominate. Saints-Bucs free pick: Saints -11

Buffalo Bills at Jacksonville Jaguars

• Bills-Jaguars Date: Sunday, November 22nd
• Bills-Jaguars Kickoff Time: 1:00
• Bills-Jaguars TV Network:CBS
• Bills-Jaguars Announcers: Bill Macatee and Steve Beuerlein
• Bills-Jaguars Point Spread: Jags -8.5
• Bills-Jaguars Over-Under: 42.5
• Bills-Jaguars Spread Pick: The Jaguars play much better at home than on the road and have somehow worked their way into being a game out of the final playoff spot in the AFC. The problem for the Bills in this matchup is that what they don’t do well on defense (stop the run) is exactly what the Jags do very well (hand it off to MJD). I don’t totally trust the Jags’ offense and David Garrard, however, so while I think Jacksonville will win, I like Buffalo to keep it close enough to cover. Bills-Jaguars free pick: Bills +8.5

Cleveland Browns at Detroit Lions

• Browns-Lions Date: Sunday, November 22nd
• Browns-Lions Kickoff Time: 1:00
• Browns-Lions TV Network:CBS
• Browns-Lions Announcers: Don Criqui and Randy Cross
• Browns-Lions Point Spread: Lions -3.5
• Browns-Lions Over-Under: 38
• Browns-Lions Spread Pick: This one wins the award for Game of the Year so far. Two great teams, mano-a-mano, in what could certainly be a Super Bowl preview. Wait a minute…okay, never mind. There is not line on this one right. I’m anticipating that Detroit will be favored by 3 or 4.5 since they are at home. I’m taking the Lions. The Browns have shown me that little. Despite being my favorite team, I’m taking the Lions and giving the points. Unreal. Browns-Lions free pick: Lions minus whatever the spread is

Washington Redskins at Dallas Cowboys

• Redskins-Cowboys Date: Sunday, November 22nd
• Redskins-Cowboys Kickoff Time: 1:00
• Redskins-Cowboys TV Network: FOX
• Redskins-Cowboys Announcers: Joe Buck and Troy Aikman
• Redskins-Cowboys Point Spread: Cowboys -11
• Redskins-Cowboys Over-Under: 41.5
• Redskins-Cowboys Spread Pick: Dallas is the most Jekyll & Hyde team in the NFL this side of Arizona. Who thought they would lay such a pathetic egg in Lambeau? That’s the kind of performance they usually reserve for December. Anyway, I think Dallas will rebound with a nice home victory, but not a dominant one. Division games are almost always close because of the familiarity, and I don’t see this one being any different. Plus, while Washington’s offense is not very good, they are good defensively. That will keep the score low and close. Redskins-Cowboys free pick: Redskins +11

Seattle Seahawks at Minnesota Vikings

• Seahawks-Vikings Date: Sunday, November 22nd
• Seahawks-Vikings Kickoff Time: 1:00
• Seahawks-Vikings TV Network: FOX
• Seahawks-Vikings Announcers: Dick Stockton and Charles Davis
• Seahawks-Vikings Point Spread: Vikings -11
• Seahawks-Vikings Over-Under: 46
• Seahawks-Vikings Spread Pick: Sorry Seahawks fans, but this just is not a good matchup for you. Jared Allen is a beast and will be able to eat up the Seahawks’ porous O-line. And after giving up 30+ pts to Arizona last week, what do you think Brett Favre and Adrian Peterson can do? Someone may get the Vikings before the end of the regular season, but I don’t see it happening in Minnesota. I see another Vikings blowout this weekend. Seahawks-Vikings free pick: Vikings -11

Indianapolis Colts at Baltimore Ravens

• Colts-Ravens Date: Sunday, November 22nd
• Colts-Ravens Kickoff Time: 1:00
• Colts-Ravens TV Network: CBS
• Colts-Ravens Announcers: Greg Gumbel and Dan Dierdorf
• Colts-Ravens Point Spread: Colts -1
• Colts-Ravens Over-Under: 44
• Colts-Ravens Spread Pick: I am sure that Indy will be favored, probably by four or five points, but I think this is a classic trap game for the Colts. Coming off of their emotional win over New England, the Colts will have a slight dropoff intensity, and that is not something you want to do in Baltimore. The Ravens essentially had a bye week, dismantling Cleveland 16-0, and something tells me they’ve had their eye on this game for a while. Remember how the Ravens almost upset the Patriots when they were undefeated in 2007? Well this is a much better Ravens team. I wouldn’t be surprised if Baltimore pulled off the upset, and I certainly think they’ll cover whatever the spread is. Colts-Ravens free pick: Ravens plus whatever the spread is. (Update: Damnit I wish the spread was bigger!)

San Francisco 49ers at Green Bay Packers

• 49ers-Packers Date: Sunday, November 22nd
• 49ers-Packers Kickoff Time: 1:00
• 49ers-Packers TV Network: FOX
• 49ers-Packers Announcers: Thom Brennaman and Brian Billick
• 49ers-Packers Point Spread: Packers -6.5
• 49ers-Packers Over-Under: 42.5
• 49ers-Packers Spread Pick: Tough one. The Packers played very well last week against Dallas and have an explosive offense when they can protect Aaron Rodgers. The 49ers have been up and down this year, and while they stop the run very well, they are not all that great against the pass. I think the Packers’ passing game gets it going this weekend and Green Bay rolls to a solid home victory. 49ers-Packers free pick: Packers -6.5

Arizona Cardinals at St. Louis Rams

• Cardinals-Rams Date: Sunday, November 22nd
• Cardinals-Rams Kickoff Time: 4:05
• Cardinals-Rams TV Network: FOX
• Cardinals-Rams Announcers: Ron Pitts and John Lynch
• Cardinals-Rams Point Spread: Cardinals -9
• Cardinals-Rams Over-Under: 46.5
• Cardinals-Rams Spread Pick: The Rams are really playing hard for new head coach Steve Spagnuolo right now, and the Cardinals are up and down. They have been playing better lately, but I see this as a game the Rams can keep close. Arizona will win, but the Rams play another playoff team close. Cardinals-Rams free pick: Rams +9

New York Jets at New England Patriots

• Jets-Patriots Date: Sunday, November 22nd
• Jets-Patriots Kickoff Time: 4:15
• Jets-Patriots TV Network:CBS
• Jets-Patriots Announcers: Jim Nantz and Phil Simms
• Jets-Patriots Point Spread: Patriots -10
• Jets-Patriots Over-Under: 45
• Jets-Patriots Spread Pick: Normally this might be a game where you’d think New England could have a Sunday night hangover after the tough loss to Indy. But it’s the Jets, and we saw in 2007 what the Patriots do to teams when they get pissed off. Remember all the trash talk by the Jets early in the season, and how they pulled off the upset? I’d take the Patriots if the line was 20. This is going to be ugly. Jets-Patriots free pick: Patriots -10

San Diego Chargers at Denver Broncos

• Chargers-Broncos Date: Sunday, November 22nd
• Chargers-Broncos Kickoff Time: 4:15
• Chargers-Broncos TV Network:CBS
• Chargers-Broncos Announcers: Dick Enberg and Dan Fouts
• Chargers-Broncos Point Spread: No line as of Tuesday morning
• Chargers-Broncos Over-Under: No line as of Tuesday morning
• Chargers-Broncos Spread Pick: They are waiting to see if Kyle Orton will play before setting this line. I personally don’t care. The most Denver would be favored by is three points, but I see the Chargers winning by more than that. San Diego is playing really well right now and Philip Rivers is one of the five best QBs in the game. With Denver reeling, I’m making the momentum pick here. Chargers-Broncos free pick: Chargers minus whatever the spread if they are favored, and obviously plus any points if that’s how the spread turns out

Cincinnati Bengals at Oakland Raiders

• Bengals-Raiders Date: Sunday, November 22nd
• Bengals-Raiders Kickoff Time: 4:15
• Bengals-Raiders TV Network:CBS
• Bengals-Raiders Announcers: Kevin Harlan and Solomon Wilcots
• Bengals-Raiders Point Spread: Bengals -9.5
• Bengals-Raiders Over-Under: 36
• Bengals-Raiders Spread Pick: Not a big fan of this one. Oakland is not great, but they can sneak up on you at home (right Philly?). Cincinnati is coming off of its biggest win in years and will be playing without Cedric Benson. I don’t think Oakland wins, but I bet Carson Palmer has to pull out a late drive to salt this one away. A valiant Raiders effort comes up short. Bengals-Raiders free pick: Raiders +9.5

Philadelphia Eagles at Chicago Bears

• Eagles-Bears Date: Sunday, November 22nd
• Eagles-Bears Kickoff Time: 8:20
• Eagles-Bears TV Network: NBC
• Eagles-Bears Announcers: Al Michaels and Cris Collinsworth
• Eagles-Bears Point Spread: Eagles -3
• Eagles-Bears Over-Under: 45
• Eagles-Bears Spread Pick: It’s a Prime Time game, so we know that Jay Cutler will be turning the ball over left and right. Seriously, until Cutler proves that he can produce when the bright lights are on, how can you pick the Bears? Yes, they are at home, but I don’t trust Cutler at all. I’d rather have him prove me wrong and beat me than pick him again and get burned. Eagles-Bears free pick: Eagles -3

Tennessee Titans at Houston Texans

• Titans-Texans Date: Monday, November 23rd
• Titans-Texans Kickoff Time: 8:30
• Titans-Texans TV Network: ESPN
• Titans-Texans Announcers: Mike Tirico, Ron Jaworski, and Jon Gruden
• Titans-Texans Point Spread: Texans -4.5
• Titans-Texans Over-Under: 48
• Titans-Texans Spread Pick: A few weeks ago this did not look like such a fun game. Now that Houston is a game out of the AFC Wild Card, and Vince Young has made the Titans competitive again, this should be a really entertaining game. First bit of advice: take the over. You’ve got Chris Johnson on the same field as Matt Schaub and Andre Johnson. There will be scoring. I don’t think Tennessee is a world beater by any means, but this is still a team that went 13-3 last year and that is playing much better now with Vince Young at QB. And do you really trust Houston yet? I don’t. Titans-Texans free pick: Titans +4.5

I knew that if I stuck with Jamaal Charles long enough that he would come through for me; and come through he did. Not that it should be all that surprising, but Charles carved up the Raiders’ D for 100+ yards and a touchdown.

The question now becomes whether or not Charles is a must-start on a go forward basis. Most weeks he may be, but you certainly have to wonder about him this week with the Pittsburgh Steelers on the schedule.

I’ll tell you one guy I wouldn’t question in Week 11: Ricky Williams. He should be a guy you’re playing most weeks anyway, but with Ronnie Brown’s status in doubt for Thursday night, Ricky’s value skyrockets.

As I try to do every week, I’ll make my best attempt to steer you in the right direction about Charles, Williams, and a host of other players. That’s what this post is all about, so let’s get to it.

As has become our custom for these start ‘em, sit ‘em breakdowns, here is a little love for one of our favorite content sponsors, Sadler’s Smokehouse:

Certain content on MSF is sponsored by Sadler’s Smokehouse, a producer of premium pit smoked meats that are best described by Sadler’s slogan: Legendary since 1948.

Sadler’s premium meats are perfect for tailgating on Saturday, for grilling out at home on Sunday, or for when you are hosting a group of friends, or even just the family, on Monday night.

With a variety of delicious choices (beef, pork, ribs, turkey, brisket, and more) and availability at grocery stores throughout the U.S., Sadler’s meats are the tasty, convenient choice when you want to watch the big game and eat well while you’re doing it.

Support MSF by visiting the Sadler’s Smokehouse website: Sadler’s Smokehouse

——————–

And now, a quick look back at the hits and misses from Week 10:

• Start ‘em hits: Brett Favre, MIN; Jamaal Charles, KC; Calvin Johnson, DET; John Carlson, SEA (thanks to his TD!); Baltimore Ravens D/ST
• Start ‘em misses: Calvin Johnson and John Carlson weren’t great, but I think they did enough to stay out of the miss category. But just so you know, I know they weren’t slam dunks.
• Sit ‘em hits: Julius Jones, SEA; Austin Collie, IND; Fred Davis, WAS; Indianapolis and New England D/ST units
• Sit ‘em misses: David Garrard, JAX;

Okay, time to jump right into the Week 11 start ‘em, sit ‘em picks. Remember that the byes are over, so everyone is fair game for a start…unless they play for the Browns.

(Random thought: since the Lions and Browns are playing this week, does it actually make someone not named Calvin Johnson playable? Tempting right?)

Fantasy Football

Week 11 Start ‘Em, Sit ‘Em Lineup Advice

Week 11 Start ‘em, Sit ‘em Picks: Quarterbacks

Start ‘em: Philip Rivers, San Diego Chargers (at Denver Broncos)

My affection for Philip Rivers continues to grow by the week. He was brilliant in Week 10 against Philadelphia, going 20-25 for 231 yards, two TDs, and no interceptions. On the season, he’s averaging 275.1 yards per game and almost two TDs per game, while only tossing six INTs thus far.

So then why does Yahoo have Rivers listed as only the 10th best QB for Week 11? And behind Eli Manning? Really?

The reason is probably the matchup, which comes against Denver and its 5th rated defense. And while the Broncos will provide a greater challenge than Rivers’ last four opponents (Eagles, Giants, Raiders, Chiefs), I don’t think it’s enough that it should scare you from starting Rivers.

Consider this: Champ Bailey has been in Denver for a long time; still, Rivers has a career QB rating of 110.7 against Denver, throws for almost 250 yards per game, and has thrown 13 TDs against only four INTs in eight career games against the Broncos.

By this point, unless you have Peyton Manning or Tom Brady, I think Philip Rivers has to be a weekly must-start. Don’t blow it and outthink yourself just because Denver’s on the schedule. Rivers has succeeded against Denver before, and he’ll do it again this week.

Philip Rivers Week 11 fantasy projection: 260 yards passing, 2 TDs, 1 INT

Other start ‘em QBs for Week 10

• Matt Schaub is back and going against one of the NFL’s worst pass defenses in Tennessee. He has to be in your lineup.
• The Chicago Bears have given up the 5th most TD passes in the NFL. Donovan McNabb is already licking his chops for Sunday night; start him!
• Ben Roethlisberger was slowed by Cincinnati on Sunday and did not look good, but he should get back on track against Kansas City. In 12-team and other deeper leagues, Big Ben makes a good start.

Sit ‘em: Matt Ryan, Atlanta Falcons (at New York Giants)

I love Matt Ryan long-term (even for later on this season) and he’s my starting QB in a couple of leagues. I just won’t have him starting this week.

The reason is that Ryan is really struggling right now. He has thrown eight INTs in the last four games against only five TDs. Granted, he’s faced some pretty good pass defenses, and three of them on the road (@DAL, @NO, WAS, @CAR), but something still feels off. At this point, I want to see him have a solid outing before I trust him enough to throw him out there in a 1-QB league.

Now, you might wonder if the Giants present a good matchup for Ryan. Yes, they have given up 15 TD passes this year (7th worst) and are on a huge slide. However, they are at home, coming off of their bye week, and getting CB Aaron Ross back.

In a week that is make-or-break for many of us, there are about 15-16 QBs I’d rather have starting this week than Matt Ryan. Hopefully you have one of them.

Matt Ryan Week 11 fantasy projection: 215 yards passing, 1 TD, 2 INT

Other sit ‘em QB for Week 11:

• Tony Romo has only thrown one TD pass in each of his last two games and faces Washington’s top-ranked pass D this week.
• Jay Cutler is playing a prime-time game. Uh oh…
• David Garrard is facing Buffalo, a team that cannot stop the run but that is pretty good against the pass. Good week to sit David.

Week 11 Start ‘em, Sit ‘em Picks: Running Backs

Start ‘em: Ricky Williams, Miami Dolphins (vs Carolina Panthers)

This one should go without saying considering Williams’ nose for the end zone this year (6 TDs) and the fact that Ronnie Brown is unlikely to play Thursday night, but I just want to make sure we’re all on the same page.

Ricky is averaging 5.3 yards per carry on the season and is coming off a tremendous 20-carry, 102-yard effort last week against Tampa Bay. He also has a nice matchup this week as Carolina is only 25th against the run (128.1 yards per game) and has given up 9 rushing TDs.

We know that Miami is committed to the run and committed to Ricky as being a major part of their attack. With Ronnie Brown out, Ricky should again get 20+ carries and should grab at least one TD. Start him with confidence.

Ricky Williams Week 10 fantasy projection: 105 yards, 2 TDs, 3 rec, 25 yards

Other start ‘em RBs for Week 11:

• Steve Slaton. Surprised to see him here? Call it a hunch. Gary Kubiak says he will base playing time on how his guys practiced during the bye week. With Slaton’s 2008 draft classmate Chris Johnson coming to town Monday night, I have a feeling Slaton will be a little extra motivated to get out there and play well.
• Beanie Wells is averaging 5.3+ yards per carry the last two weeks and scored two TDs last week. He’s also getting 13-16 touches per game. With St. Louis on the Week 11 docket, it’s a good time to start Wells.
• LeSean McCoy will most likely be starting this week with Brian Westbrook likely out with another concussion. This guy plays well when he starts. I think he should be in your lineup.

Sit ‘em: Jamaal Charles, Kansas City Chiefs (vs Pittsburgh Steelers)

Last week I was right about Jamaal Charles as a start. He had a splendid game against Oakland Raiders.

But let’s repeat who the game was against. Say it with me now: the Oakland Raiders.

This week, Charles gets to walk into a stirred-up hornets nest. The Steelers are coming off a loss to the Bengals that dropped them to 6-3. Mike Tomlin was not happy and something tells me Pittsburgh will be fired up and ready to go.

The Steelers give up only 69.3 yards per game on the ground, which is almost 15 yards less than the 2nd best team. For KC to have any chance, Matt Cassel is going to have to take advantage of Troy Polamalu’s absence and get it done through the air.

While Charles does provide some value as a receiver (seven catches the last two weeks) it is not enough, nor is Charles proven enough, to be a start against Pittsburgh.

Jamaal Charles Week 11 fantasy projection: 35 yards rushing, 4 rec, 20 yards, 0 TDs

Other sit ‘em RBs for Week 11:

• I am not a big Cadillac Williams fan this week. He is averaging less than 50 yards per game, less than 4.0 yards per carry, and has scored only 3 TDs. Plus, he is facing New Orleans this week, which means the Bucs will likely be behind and forced to throw.
• Felix Jones remains an emphatic sit as he has all of seven touches the last two weeks. So much for my preseason sleeper.
• Justin Forsett had a great week last week against Minnesota, but I’m wary. The Vikings have a great defense and the Seahawks have to go to Minnesota. I’d rather wait a week and see if Forsett can repeat his Week 10 success.

Week 11 Start ‘em, Sit ‘em Picks: Wide Receivers

Start ‘em: Greg Jennings, Green Bay Packers (vs San Francisco 49ers)

If you’re like me, a Jennings owner, this has been a frustrating season for you. After scoring 21 TDs the last two seasons, Jennings has scored a whopping two this year. The main reason why is that his yards per catch has gone from 17.4 in 2007 to 16.2 in 2008 to 14.3 this year.

I think, however, that this weekend could be a breakout of sorts of Jennings. Call it wishful thinking if you like, but there are numbers to back it up.

San Francisco is outstanding against the run, giving up only 87.7 yards per game and allowing just 8 rushing TDs on the season. Against the pass, however, San Francisco is 29th in the league (248.3 yards per game). More importantly, they have given up the 7th most plays of 20+ yards and the 9th most plays of 40+ yards.

That means there could be some big plays available for Greg Jennings, if Aaron Rodgers can get some protection and get rid of the ball in a timely fashion. San Francisco is only 21st in the league in sacks, so Rodgers very well could find the going a bit less rough this week.

Greg Jennings Week 11 fantasy projection: 6 rec, 110 yards, TD

Other start ‘em WRs for Week 11:

• Lee Evans continues to be undervalued. He has 15 catches over the last four games, but more importantly has four TDs during that span. Jacksonville is susceptible to the deep ball.
• Sidney Rice has at least 136 yards receiving in three of his last four games. He has a whopping 786 yards receiving on the season. Start him, without question, as the TDs will be coming.
• Kevin Walter is coming around…finally. He has nine catches over his last two games and gets Tennessee’s woeful pass D this week. If there’s a matchup to start him, this is it.

Sit ‘em: Bernard Berrian, Minnesota Vikings (vs Seattle)

It is pretty clear that Bernard Berrian is no more than the third option on the Vikings’ offense (behind Adrian Peterson and Sidney Rice). He may even be the 4th option considering the production the Vikings have gotten from Percy Harvin this season. And around the goalline, as we know, Berrian is barely even an option, and certainly nowhere near the option that Visanthe Shiancoe is.

So do you really want a 4th or 5th option starting for you at WR? Even for a team as good as Minnesota, in a matchup as good as this week’s against Seattle, I want to see some production from Berrian before I feel comfortable starting him.

Remember folks, this is Week 11. For many of you, it’s boom or bust this week in terms of the playoffs. I don’t want to put one of my spots in the hands of such a boom or bust player if I can help it. Find someone more consistent.

Bernard Berrian Week 11 fantasy projection: 3 rec, 45 yards, 0 TD

Other sit ‘em WRs for Week 11:

• I’m not buying Roy Williams. I know his numbers have been up the last two weeks, but the Cowboys are facing Washington next week and Wade Phillips already said that they relied too much on Tony Romo last week. Back to the running game (and more Miles Austin, I bet).
• I know that Terrell Owens had 85 receiving yards in Week 10, but he still only has one receiving TD on the year. Don’t be fooled into starting him.
• Michael Crabtree remains a sit until he proves he’s a red zone threat, which is what I’ve said about him all along. His receptions have dwindled over the last two weeks (three and four in weeks 9 and 10, respectively).

Week 11 Start ‘em, Sit ‘em Picks: Tight Ends

Start ‘em: Kellen Winslow, Tampa Bay Buccaneers (vs New Orleans)

It is clear that K2 is a favorite of rookie QB Josh Freeman. Over the last two weeks, since Freeman took over the starting QB job, Winslow has 11 catches, 159 yards, and a TD.

With New Orleans coming to town, the Bucs will likely be down early and down a lot, forcing Freeman to take to the air. That is a terrific recipe for Kellen Winslow to have a successful week.

(And you all know that I don’t like Kellen Winslow, so you know I really mean it to put him here.)

Kellen Winslow Week 11 fantasy projection: 6 rec, 85 yards, 1 TD

Other start ‘em TEs for Week 11:

• Greg Olsen remains a guy you have to start. 12 receptions and 146 yards over the last two games.
• I know that Visanthe Shiancoe’s reception and yardage numbers aren’t great, but 13 TDs over the last 25 games are pretty nice. Seattle should provide plenty of opportunities for Minnesota to score.

Sit ‘em: Todd Heap, Baltimore Ravens (at Indianapolis Colts)

If you’re starting Todd Heap, you are doing so based on reputation only. He has only six TDs since the beginning of the 2007 season and has to face Indianapolis this weekend. You can find better options at TE.

Todd Heap Week 11 fantasy projection: 3 rec, 21 yards

Other sit ‘em TEs for Week 11:

• Zach Miller has to be a sit. I know there is the potential there for a big week every now and then, but you have to wade through 1-catch efforts like last week to get to it. Not worth it.
• John Carlson is talented, but has only 12 catches over the last four games and will undoubtedly be used more as a blocker this week to slow down Minnesota’s pass rush.

Week 11 Start ‘em, Sit ‘em Picks: Defense / Special Teams Units

Start ‘em: Green Bay Packers D/ST (vs San Francisco)

The Packers would have had a shutout last week against Dallas were not for a garbage TD late. I know that the Packers’ O has struggled at times this year, and that their D has given up points at times, but this D has playmakers (namely, Charles Woodson) and is still worthy of starting most weeks.

A matchup this week against San Francisco is very advantageous. Sure, Frank Gore and Vernon Davis scare you, but I’ll take my chances against a team quarterbacked by Alex Smith.

Green Bay Packers D/ST Week 11 fantasy projection: 17 pts or less, 3 sacks, 2 INTs

Other sit ‘em D/ST units for Week 11:

• I’d feel bad stating the obvious and telling you to start Cincinnati (@Oak), Pittsburgh (@KC), and New Orleans (at TB) this week because it seems too obvious…but start ‘em all.
• Don’t you have to like Philly’s D knowing that they are going up against Jay Cutler in a primetime game? Get ready for some INTs!

Sit ‘em: Miami Dolphins D/ST (vs Carolina)

Miami has a solid defense, but they are missing the impact that Joey Porter made last year. Also, Carolina has its running game rolling again and Jake Delhomme is starting to protect the football. I think that these two strong running teams could put up more points than you might expect this Thursday.

Miami Dolphins D/ST Week 11 fantasy projection: 21 pts or more, 2 sacks, 1 INT

Other sit ‘em D/ST units for Week 11:

• I’m also not a big fan of Carolina. They are much better at stopping the pass than they are at stopping the run.
• Sit the Jets until further notice. They are really struggling defensively and now face the Patriots. Not a good mix.

Good luck in Week 11 everyone. I may get behind answering questions early in the week, but I promise to try my best to be totally caught up by Friday.

Thanks to everyone for their support of our fantasy content. It’s fun to write on a weekly basis, and hopefully it’s helping your teams into the playoffs.

**********

* – Jamaal Charles photo credit: Top Fantasy Football

* – Ricky Williams photo credit: Jamie Squire/Getty Images via About.com

It’s time now to make a few more NFL picks for some of the other key matchups in Week 10.

Jacksonville Jaguars @ New York Jets

Jags-Jets kickoff date and time: Sunday, November 15, 1:00 p.m. ET

Sportsbook favorite: Jets -7

Each of these teams is struggling for respect in the tough AFC and it appears the Jets will make the bigger statement in Week 10. With respect to Mike Sims-Walker’s breakout season, corner Darrelle Revis has handled Randy Moss and Andre Johnson, so he shouldn’t have too much trouble in the shutdown game this week.

Pick your poison for the Jags – facing an aggressive “D,” warm-weather team playing in cold weather, bad run defense facing NFL’s No. 1 rushing offense…even Mark Sanchez shouldn’t be intimidated against a Jaguar defense that has an NFL-worst eight sacks. Everything about this matchup points to a Jets victory.

Jaguars-Jets Spread Pick: Jets -7

Cincinnati Bengals @ Pittsburgh Steelers

Bengals-Steelers date and time: Sunday, November 15, 1:00 p.m. ET

Sportsbook favorite: Steelers -7

Online betting fans should consider the Bengals legit now. You don’t beat Baltimore twice, Green Bay, Pittsburgh and Chicago by fluke. However, even though Cincy already has a win over Pittsburgh, a lot has changed for the Steelers since that matchup.

For one, they have Troy Polamalu back in the secondary. Secondly, thanks to Rashard Mendenhall’s emergence, the Bengals can’t totally key on the passing game. Big Ben will do more damage on playaction now that teams have to respect Pittsburgh’s ground attack again. The Steelers’ “D” showed against Minnesota three weeks ago that it can handle a potent offense, especially against the run, and it should do so versus the Bengals on Sunday.

Bengals-Steelers Spread Pick: Steelers -7

Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ Miami Dolphins

Bucs-Dolphins date and time: Sunday, November 15, 1:00 p.m. ET

Sportsbook favorite: Dolphins -10

Can lightning strike twice for Tampa? Last week brought a true glimmer of hope to Bucs fans as rookie quarterback Josh Freeman threw for three scores in his NFL debut, a shocking victory over Green Bay. Well, let’s not get carried away. That was a home game and this is a road game against a Miami team that gets beat for big plays but does get to the quarterback pretty well.

The Fish will bring the heat and really test Freeman’s ability to handle pressure, unlike the Packers, who have the fewest sacks in the NFC. The powerful Miami running game should also stomp the Bucs. You’re better off going with the underdog in Pacquiao Cotto betting, for what that’s worth.

Bucs-Dolphins Spread Pick: Dolphins -10