Projo Fantasy Sports Blog

By Michael Salfino

After this week our precious season, which still seems showroom fresh, will be more than half over. The fantasy football season, of course, will be more than two-thirds of the way gone, unless you're skilled enough to make your playoffs. With trade deadlines fast approaching, these calls take on even more urgency.

Upgrade

Ryan Grant, RB, Packers: DeShaun Wynn hurt his shoulder on his first carry Monday night and is out for the year. Discount Grant's 104 yards versus the Broncos, whom everyone runs on. But the Packers have expressed a commitment to running. Grant has as good a chance to be productive as just about any other second- or third-tier RB. Keep him and package your other bigger names for a championship-level upgrade.

Jets Passing Game: Kellen Clemens can threaten all areas of the field. He'll make some terrible decisions, like all young QBs, but that just means more playing catch up and more passing. Jerricho Cotchery gets the bigger upgrade, because Laveranues Coles has been very useful all year in all formats. The Jets' rotten defense helps by forcing the offense to play catch up.

Browns Passing Game: Huge win for everyone invested in the Browns. At 4-3, Brady Quinn is far, far off in the distance (as he should be anyway). Derek Anderson doesn't seem to have any fleas to me. He's got pocket awareness, makes all the throws and moves quickly through his progressions. If Quinn was playing like this, they'd be sculpting his statue already outside Cleveland Browns Stadium. Anderson (18 TD passes) is all of 24 years old.

Reggie Brown, WR, Eagles: Didn't score but was very involved, with 100-plus receiving yards, versus a bad Vikings pass defense. He also had an 89-yard day versus the Jets a couple weeks ago. This is a 1 and 1A receiving situation in Philly. Where that once played into the hands of those buying Kevin Curtis, it now pays to speculate on Brown.

Selvin Young, RB, Broncos: The 120 total yards were useful last week. Young also had a 48-yarder wiped out by a ticky-tack penalty and was the goal-line back in one key series. Travis Henry (ribs) is fighting a one-year suspension for failing a league drug test, dragging the process out longer than anyone imagined. But insiders expect the NFL to prevail and for Henry to be done in about two more weeks.

Jesse Chatman, RB, Dolphins: He's a tough runner with a little burst who continues to perform when given snaps. He's also seeing some third-down action. And he's built for the goal line, at 5-8, 225. Players can always be had for a discount the week of their bye. He's a top-20 back going forward (not saying much this running-back poor year). Forget about Ricky Williams getting another chance in Miami.

No Change

Plaxico Burress, WR, Giants: Burress needs to heal over the bye week. But it's very likely his injured ankle will take months to be close to 100 percent. Not practicing during the week isn't a big deal. But he's lacked any burst in recent weeks and his production has suffered (7 catches, 57 yards the last two weeks).

Brian Griese, QB, Bears: The good news for Griese is 7.0 yards per attempt and nine TD strikes in five starts (at least one in each game). The bad news, of course, is the 10 picks. Fortunately, those don't count in most scoring formats. Normally, they do get your QB benched when they come with this kind of frequency, but the Bears are not going to jump from the frying pan back into the fire with Rex Grossman.

Andre Johnson, WR, Texans: Normally, I'd advise to buy a superstar talent like Johnson a week before everyone expects a return from injury. But this knee sprain has lingered to the point where it must have been a pretty serious partial tear; how Johnson will perform once he gets back is total guesswork. Given the severity of the damage, there's greater risk of reinjury. Plus, the QB he had such great September chemistry with, Matt Schaub, is battling hip, ankle and head injuries.

Downgrade

Najeh Davenport, RB, Steelers: More importantly, a Willie Parker upgrade. Davenport suddenly is now going to get goal-line carries only if Willie Parker fails to convert "the first one or two" according to coach Mike Tomlin. Parker scored on a one-yarder last week with time about to expire in the first half. Expect more of the Parker who scored 16 TDs last year and less of Davenport: Goal-line Ghoul.

Kenton Keith, RB, Colts: The problem with believing coaches is that sometimes they lie, or simply change their minds. But what else can we do? Tony Dungy gives Keith half the carries in Week 7, and then says that "more and more I think … keeping those guys fresh is going to be good for our running game." But last week's 23-6 split in favor of Addai (who also had two catches) is nowhere near a true committee. Rock-solid feature backs get 80 percent of the carries. Addai last week got 79 percent.

By Michael Salfino

A regular season game is dressing up as the Super Bowl this Halloween week as the Patriots roll into Indianapolis in game pitting unbeatens against one another at the latest point since the 1970 AFL-NFL merger.

Peyton Manning used to be the guy who blew up the stat sheet and record book every week while Tom Brady went about the business of efficiently winning games and rings. Now it’s like Freaky Friday, as they’ve seemingly switched bodies to see how the other lives.

Patriot coaches refuse to let the game’s unwritten rules stand in the way of their quest to rewrite the NFL record book. They bring to mind the famous quote from Woody Hayes when asked why he went for two at the end of a 50-14 win over arch rival Michigan: “Because I couldn’t go for three!”

Last week, up 38-0 in the fourth quarter, the Patriots were in the shotgun throwing bombs, going on fourth down and having Brady toss his 30th TD pass of the season. So much for showing three-time Super Bowl winner Joe Gibbs some mercy.

The Redskins entered that game No. 1 in the NFL in fewest yards allowed per pass attempt. Now it’s the Colts who have the NFL’s best pass defense measured this way. Will that even matter?

Indy’s defense is arguably the best defense at limiting big passing plays in modern NFL history. Last year, they allowed an NFL-best 27 passes of 20 yards or more (the median was 42). This year, they’ve allowed just seven, ridiculously good (the median thus far is 19). While most talk Manning vs. Brady, the game pits the NFL’s best pass offense by far versus its clearly superior pass defense.

Indy’s allowed five passing TDs this year, tied with the Seahawks and Jaguars for the fewest in football. Other teams allowing less than one passing TD per game are the Bucs, Eagles, Raiders and Chiefs. Most generous to opposing WRs and QBs are the Bengals and Browns (18 TD passes allowed), followed by the Dolphins (15), Broncos and Lions (13 each).

Indy has greatly improved in limiting rushing TDs. Last year, they yielded 20, one less than league-worst St. Louis. This year, they’re on pace to yield about 11.

Rushing TDs are slightly down overall. Last year, seven teams yielded at least one per game and the median was about 0.9. This year, the 16th--ranked team allows 0.7 rushing TDs per game. Eight teams currently allow at least one rushing TD per game, led by the Dolphins (11), Raiders (10), Jets (9) and Rams (9). Most stingy is Pittsburgh (1), followed by the Chargers, Eagles, Vikings, Packers and Ravens (2 each).

Now let's look at these and other stats and attempt to predict some individual performance.

Buy

Jerious Norwood, RB, Falcons: Coaches have been really stubborn with declining veterans this year. But Falcons beat writers reported this week that the End Days are coming for Warrick Dunn (3.1 per carry). Norwood (5.8 per carry) is literally twice the player.

Kevin Walter, WR, Texans: Has 36 catches for 478 yards and a TD the past five games. Andre Johnson (knee) clearly won’t replace him in the lineup if and when he returns (the target remains Week 11).

Jerricho Cotchery, WR, Jets: He’ll effectively attack the intermediate area of opposing secondaries with strong-armed Kellen Clemens now at QB for the Jets. Cotchery went 7-165 in Clemens' one start, at Baltimore.

Hold

Joseph Addai, RB, Colts: So much for the talk by Tony Dungy last week about making Kenton Keith a full RB-committee member. Addai (three TDs) was the alpha male again in the backfield and the Colts now lead the NFL with 12 rushing TDs.

LenDale White, RB, Titans: White keeps scoring and still leads the NFL in red-zone touches. But his lack of explosiveness comes into sharp relief whenever rookie Chris Henry (7.0 yards per carry) explodes out of the backfield. Henry also weighs 240 pounds.

Sell

Brian Leonard, RB, Rams: Steven Jackson (bulging disc) hurt his back right after scoring the Rams' lone rushing TD of 2007 on Sunday. Leonard likely goes back to starting. But with the Rams' offensive linemen continuing to drop like flies, it’s hopeless in St. Louis.

By David Ferris

A lot of pundits were quick to anoint Jason Campbell after he sliced up the Lions back in Week 5, but it's generally a mistake to get too excited about a big day against an easy mark. Campbell has struggled in his three games since – he was so-so at Green Bay, off the mark against Arizona, and downright brutal at New England, showing absolutely no pocket awareness whatsoever.

When you adjust to the ball in the air as well as Braylon Edwards does, getting open isn't really that important. Randy Moss is the league's current prince of midair, but the emerging Edwards might be as good as anyone else. Edwards will be playing in February, one way or another.

The Drew Brees explosion wasn't that surprising – he's been sharp for three straight games now. But I was stunned to see the 2006 version of Marques Colston back in the building (he just missed a fourth touchdown, too). The New Orleans schedule is tame enough for the Saints to make a strong playoff run.

Chris Chambers only had two catches, but one of them went for a TD and Philip Rivers just missed him on another bomb. The Chargers ran less game-intensive snaps on offense than usual, given that they scored twice on returns and had 35 points by halftime (teams west of Foxboro generally aren't worried about max scoring). Mike Salfino defended Chambers backstage this week while I was skeptical; score this one to Salfino.

Cedric Benson runs with surprising vision at times, but he's not the power back he was touted to be at Texas. He generally goes down at first contact; if his line isn't ripping open huge holes, he can't be effective.

Cleo Lemon isn't really getting a fair shake, between the bad weather and Miami's spotty wideout play. Keep in mind he also lost Ronnie Brown (injury) and Chris Chambers (trade) over the last two weeks. Nonetheless, the rebuilding Fins will be wise to audition John Beck later in the year.

It's one thing for the Patriots to keep Tom Brady on the field late in blowout victories, but continually exposing him on quarterback sneaks while comfortably ahead is just playing with fire. Let's hope this doesn't turn into the 2000 Rams revisited, an offense for the ages that became derailed when the ringleader – Kurt Warner – went down with an injury.

Quick Hits

There isn't a better technical wideout in the league than Indy's Reggie Wayne. While he has plenty of physical gifts, Wayne is a star because he understands his craft so well . . . Jeff Garcia has solid numbers but he's leaving big plays on the field every week. Joey Galloway was behind the Jacksonville secondary constantly on Sunday . . . Want to understand the term "moving the pile?" Watch Marshawn Lynch for a quarter . . . Laughably, there were several outlets who questioned Derek Anderson's chances at St. Louis because he had "performed poorly on the road" in 2007. Two games is not a just sample, friends (Anderson wasn't that bad at New England, anyway). To anyone logical, Anderson's big Week 8 showing was merely par for the course . . . It's not a matter of if with Greg Olsen, it's a matter of when. Give him full health and he'll make multiple Pro Bowl trips . . . When you dress in the candy-bar uniforms the Bears had on, you deserve to lose. Even the 1979 San Diego Padres were laughing at you . . . The J.P. Losman bomb to Lee Evans was a fluke all the way, but long-suffering Evans owners will take whatever they can get . . . David Carr can't play, not in the NFL anyway. Go north, young man. Chuckle if you want, but the Panthers really need to keep Vinny Testaverde healthy (that goes double for Steve Smith) . . . Cheer up, Stephen Gostkowski owners. At least Bill Belichick isn't calling for 2-point tries after all those red-zone conversions . . . If the Vikings don't have the worst pass defense in the NFC right now, they're at least in the conversation . . . So that's what happens when the Jets play a linebacker who might actually fit the scheme. Nice breakthrough, David Harris.

By David Ferris

Below are complete fantasy football rankings based on this week's matchups for all the major positions (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, team defense). They are based on a combined yardage/scoring system (4 points for a passing touchdown, 6 points for a rushing/receiving touchdown, one point for every 25 passing yards, one point for every 10 rushing/receiving yards).

Last Updated: 10/27
* = check status

Quarterback
1. *Tom Brady, NE vs. WAS
2. Peyton Manning, IND at CAR
3. Carson Palmer, CIN vs. PIT
4. Ben Roethlisberger, PIT at CIN
5. Derek Anderson, CLE at STL
NOTE: This year's feel good story at QB.

>> Continue reading: Updated position-by-position player rankings

By David Ferris

Quarterbacks

Titans QB Vince Young (quad) did fine all through the practice week and will start against Oakland.

Jaguars QB David Garrard (ankle) will be out for multiple weeks, which leaves the club with Quinn Gray under center at Tampa Bay. Downgrade the entire Jacksonville passing game as a result.

Texans QB Matt Schaub (hip) was limited all week and is a game-time decision at San Diego. Sage Rosenfels is the other option. The club was encouraged by the work Schaub was able to do Friday.

Jets QB Chad Pennington (ankle) has kept his job, at least for another week. He missed some reps the last few days but it's not expected to keep him off the field against Buffalo.

49ers QB Alex Smith (shoulder) is off the injury report and will start against the Saints.

Vikings QB Tarvaris Jackson (broken finger) is a game-time decision, with Kelly Holcomb the fallback option. It seems more likely right now that Holcomb will go, which gives the Minnesota passing game a mild bump.

Panthers QB Vinny Testaverde will start against the Colts, as David Carr is still dealing with a cranky back.

Bills QB Trent Edwards is now the clear No. 1 in Buffalo, with J.P. Losman the backup.

Running Backs

49ers RB Frank Gore (ankle) worked the last two days and is listed as probable, so use him if you normally do.

Jaguars RB Maurice Jones-Drew (knee) did limited work the last two days and is expected to play against Tampa Bay, though he's not 100 percent.

Rams RB Steven Jackson (groin) practiced all week and will go against Cleveland.

Broncos RB Travis Henry (ribs) hasn't practiced all week and is very questionable for Monday's game against Green Bay. Selvin Young would probably get most of the work if Henry can't go, with Andre Hall also in the mix.

Panthers RB DeShaun Foster is battling a nagging turf-toe injury, though he was able to work the last two days. RB DeAngelo Williams should spell him liberally against the Colts.

Patriots RB Laurence Maroney isn't on the injury report this week, if that matters to you. He's still looking for his first touchdown, or reception, of the season.

Bengals RB Rudi Johnson (hamstring) hasn't practiced all week, so the Bengals will roll with Kenny Watson against the Steelers.

Texans RB Ahman Green (knee) had a full practice Friday and should start against San Diego.

Vikings RB Chester Taylor is dealing with a minor groin injury, though he was able to work Friday. He'll continue to split work with Adrian Peterson. Incidentally, there are whispers out of Minnesota that Brad Childress is finally ready to start giving Peterson a much heavier workload.

Packers RB DeShawn Wynn (neck) had two good days of practice and should start Monday against Denver.

Browns RB Jamal Lewis (foot) was limited all week and is very questionable for Sunday's game at St. Louis. Jason Wright and Jerome Harrison both figure to see work here, even if Lewis is in uniform.

Titans RB Chris Brown (ankle) got back to practice on Friday and has a shot to play Sunday. Nonetheless, most of the work figures to go to LenDale White, with a few carries thrown to Chris Henry.

Lions RB Tatum Bell probably will be a healthy scratch at Chicago, as Kevin Jones is clearly the main guy for Mike Martz now.

Giants RB Derrick Ward (ankle) hasn't been practicing and is considered doubtful for Sunday's game with Miami.

Wide Receivers

Colts WR Marvin Harrison (knee) hasn't practiced all week and is questionable at best for Sunday's game at Carolina. At least it's an early game, so you can check his status before the full day kicks off.

Texans WR Andre Johnson (knee) did some limited work this week but will not play against the Chargers.

Rams WR Torry Holt (knee) is free of the injury report this week, so start him at Cleveland if you've got him.

Giants WR Plaxico Burress (ankle) was held out of practice all week, his MO for 2007. He's produced despite this injury all year, so keep using him.

Bengals WR Chad Johnson (ankle) worked Friday and is listed as probable, so no worries here.

Steelers WR Hines Ward (knee) worked the last two days and is fine. He's got a good chance to score against that patchwork Bengals secondary.

Jets WR Laveranues Coles (knee) is listed as questionable, as usual, but he's always played through this tag in the Eric Mangini era and I can't see what would be different here. Use Coles against Buffalo.

49ers WR Darrell Jackson (quad) missed the full practice week and is considered doubtful for Sunday's game with New Orleans. With that, the club is forced to use Ashley Lelie.

Titans WR Brandon Jones (knee) did some work Friday and has a chance to play against the Raiders.

Packers WR Greg Jennings (hamstring) is no longer on the injury report, so no worries here.

Rams WR Drew Bennett (hamstring) got back to work the last two days and will be on the field against Cleveland.

Bengals WR Chris Henry (league suspension) has returned to practice and should be ready to play in Week 10.

Tight Ends

Patriots TE Ben Watson (ankle) missed the full week of practice and is very questionable for Sunday's game with Washington.

Steelers TE Heath Miller (chin) worked the last two days, so go ahead and use him.

Eagles TE L.J. Smith (groin) did plenty of work this week, not that I'm ready to trust him on game day.

Buccaneers TE Alex Smith (ankle) missed the practice week and will probably sit against Jacksonville.

Dolphins TE David Martin (groin) didn't do a lot this week and probably won't go against the Giants.

Packers TE Bubba Franks (knee) is out this week, which opens things up for Donald Lee.

Other Positions

Texans PK Kris Brown (foot) should be able to play against San Diego, not that you want to tie yourself with a kicker on an 11-point underdog.

Dolphins LB Zach Thomas (whiplash) won't play against the Giants.

Jets LB Jonathan Vilma (knee) isn't expected to go, so rookie David Harris picks up the start.

Packers CBs Al Harris (back) and Charles Woodson (foot) got back to work Friday and are considered probable for Monday's game at Denver.

Broncos CB Champ Bailey (quad) has been working this week and should play Monday against Green Bay. Running mate Dre' Bly (shoulder) is also dinged up.

By Michael Salfino

Different format this week. I just finished up a redraft league with other football writers. Only how players score going forward matters. Scoring is pretty typical. The designations are relative to where players were drafted this week relative to where they tended to be drafted preseason. But I'll tell you whether or not I disagree and why in my comments. This was a 10-team draft.

Upgrade

Adrian Peterson, RB, Vikings (5th overall): He should be the third or fourth RB, I guess. But he's not starting and Chester Taylor has 40 carries to Peterson's 44 when both are healthy. I like him a lot more if Kelly Holcomb starts for QB Tarvaris Jackson, who is a joke.

Reggie Bush, RB, Saints (12th): This was not a point-per-catch league or Bush would have maybe been a top-six pick. He's the only Saint skill player not deeply discounted for their surprising offensive woes. Like this pick.

Braylon Edwards, WR, Browns (11th): Second WR off the board. I'd be afraid to speculate that highly because there's still some chance the Browns look for an excuse to bench QB Derek Anderson and give reps to rookie Brady Quinn.

Steven Jackson, RB, Rams (10th): Seventh RB taken. He's due back this week. As with Bush, his team's offensive woes don't seem to matter. Perhaps it's a sign of desperation at a very weak RB position.

Wes Welker, WR, Patriots (37th): Wow. I can't disagree. This is the golden year for Tom Brady (2nd overall pick in a league that deeply discounts passing TDs). Donte Stallworth went 49th. Randy Moss 6th.

Kevin Curtis, WR, Eagles (69th): How have things changed since August? Reggie Brown was the consensus Eagles receiver to own (not here, thankfully) and went 96th. Experts have lost faith in the Eagles passing game (McNabb went 85th). I'm more bullish on Donovan (but already owned Brady).

Brandon Marshall, WR, Broncos (56th): I like Curtis just as much. But Marshall is a player to own, as there's upside from here despite the DUI this week (which should not impact his playing status). With Javon Walker out for maybe the year, Marshall is a No. 1 receiver on a team with a playcalling genius as coach, uncertainty at running back, a disappointing defense and a young gun QB.

Jesse Chatman, RB, Dolphins (41st): He was drafted ahead of Laurence Maroney, Thomas Jones, Travis Henry and LaMont Jordan. So, he's the No. 1 waiver-wire guy this week with Ronnie Brown out for the year (ACL). All bets are off when the switch is made to rookie John Beck.

No change

Andre Johnson, WR, Texans (32nd): I think this was too high. He's not playing again this week. Who knows how bad his knee is hurt. Always assume guys hurt are going to stay hurt. How will he play at less than 100 percent? What's Matt Schaub's status (multiple injuries last week)? Way too much uncertainty here.

Joseph Addai, RB, Colts (3rd): I was wrong in not worrying that he'd be a committee guy. Dungy says he's going to a timeshare. Does that mean 70 percent of the carries for Addai or 51 percent like last week? This question puts him into the second tier or running backs and Kenton Keith (82nd) into the third.

Chris Henry, WR, Bengals (101st): That's a great value (went one pick before I could grab him). Henry was allowed to return to practice this week, paving the way for his return November 11th. He'll be super explosive again, nine TDs on 36 catches last year.

Jerious Norwood, RB, Falcons (68th): Great value. Warrick's done. So is that joke, I know. But there shouldn't be any controversy here with Norwood averaging six yards per carry since the start of 2006, twice what Dunn averages this year.

Downgrade

Marvin Harrison, WR, Colts (33rd): Experts are appropriately worried about the sprained knee. How long will it take him to recover at age 35? His owners need to get rookie Anthony Gonzalez (undrafted) as insurance.

Torry Holt, WR, Rams (45th): How the mighty WRs have fallen. Another veteran with a bad knee. In addition, the Rams can't pass block, which means…

Marc Bulger, QB, Rams (132nd): …Bulger's stock has bottomed out. Who would have thought that Bulger owners would long for the days where Mike Martz was in charge of scheming to protect Bulger. At these prices, it pays to be invested in the Rams passing game.

Javon Walker, WR, Broncos (160th): There's hope, I guess, that he comes back in Week 14 or so. He's out at least five more games, according to his knee surgeon. That helps his owner here more than other fantasy owners unless they're fairly certain to make the playoffs.

Laurence Maroney, RB, Patriots (43rd): I finally give up. He got a handful of carries and no goal-line looks upon his return from a groin injury in a game the Patriots were leading 42-7 at halftime. Maybe they're saving him. Hopefully not for 2008.

Drew Brees, QB, Saints (90th): That's bullish considering how badly he's played and produced. He's been as horrible as any QB not named "Tarvaris" this year. To give you a sense of his current value, he was tabbed right between Jon Kitna and Ben Roethlisberger. Fair enough, though I'd rather have Big Ben.

Marques Colston, WR, Saints: He's playing like a rookie this year. Always be wary of new No. 1 receivers, especially very young ones. He was taken just after Curtis and just before Santana Moss. I'd much rather have Curtis, but Colston should outperform the once-again, other Moss.

By David Ferris

Below are complete fantasy football rankings based on this week's matchups for all the major positions (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, team defense). They are based on a combined yardage/scoring system (4 points for a passing touchdown, 6 points for a rushing/receiving touchdown, one point for every 25 passing yards, one point for every 10 rushing/receiving yards).

Updated every Saturday in light of injury and other news from around the NFL.

* = check status

Quarterback
1. *Tom Brady, NE vs. WAS
2. Peyton Manning, IND at CAR
3. Carson Palmer, CIN vs. PIT
4. Derek Anderson, CLE at STL
NOTE: This year's feel good story at QB.
5. Ben Roethlisberger, PIT at CIN

>> Continue reading: Position-by-position rankings for Week Eight

By Michael Salfino

Much to the chagrin of fantasy football owners nationwide, another dreaded NFL timeshare at running back has emerged in Indianapolis. Kenton Keith parlayed his big Week 5 in relief of the injured Joseph Addai into about half the carries (15 to Addai's 16) Monday night, a ratio that will presumably stick going forward.

There was much talk in August of the pervasiveness of these running back committees. Looking around the NFL, however, timeshares don't appear to be any more common than in other recent seasons.

Only the Falcons, Panthers, Cowboys, Jaguars, Patriots, Vikings and now Colts appear to currently have true timeshares irrespective of injuries. I'm defining a timeshare as any arrangement where the primary ball carrier gets 70 percent of the carries or less.

Are these arrangements effective? Looking at rushing yards per carry, the teams above rank 19th, 8th, 5th, 4th, 15th, 1st and 12th, respectively. That seems to be a good argument for committees.

Some NFL executives maintain that committees are in a running back's best interest given that they generally have no more than 1,500 or so carries in them. Only about 50 backs in NFL history that have surpassed that mark. If committees were more prevalent, perhaps backs could have seven- or eight-year careers rather than ones lasting four or five. Of course, it's also generally much cheaper to pay two halves of a running back than one whole.

So while Addai might not like the new arrangement with Kenton Keith any more than his fantasy owners, perhaps it will add a few more productive years to his career.

Whether spreading out the carries would reduce injuries is highly speculative. Miami's Ronnie Brown had the biggest rushing/receiving workload in the NFL and is now out for the season with a torn ACL. But he sustained that injury trying to make a tackle on an interception return.

Running back careers most often end with a more chronic loss of effectiveness. Earl Campbell, Franco Harris, Emmitt Smith, Eddie George and many others wore down due to age and mileage.

Eventually, the circus leaves town for all these running backs. This year older-than-30 backs Shaun Alexander (2,104 carries) and Warrick Dunn (2,351) are in their final death throes.

While Dunn gets the vast majority of carries (95) compared to his backup Jerious Norwood (47), it's Norwood who runs much more effectively: 5.8 yards per carry compared to 3.1 for Dunn. Norwood clearly should be Atlanta's primary RB.

Other backups badly outperforming starters include the Panthers' DeAngelo Williams over DeShaun Foster (5.5 to 4.2 with Foster also leading the league in fumbles). The Titans' Chris Brown trumps LenDale White (5.3 to 3.3 and look out for rookie Chris Henry, who had a sparkling debut Sunday). And no human can keep up with Minnesota's Adrian Peterson (6.2 per carry to 4.4 for starter Chester Taylor, who has 40 carries to Peterson's 44 in the games where both are healthy).

Let's more closely examine other individual backs.

Buy

Jesse Chatman, Dolphins: The offensive environment in Miami is quickly deteriorating and will likely get worse when rookie John Beck eventually is installed as starter. Expect about 70 percent of Brown's production, short term, which isn't bad.

Kenny Watson, Bengals: Rudi Johnson declined last year and has looked awful even when healthy in 2007 (3.0 per carry). The Jets don't have a professional defense; so don't get too carried away with Sunday's numbers.

Hold

Laurence Maroney, Patriots: A downgrade from last week, as Maroney was off the field in the red zone again on Sunday in his return from a groin injury. When healthy, Maroney's gotten about 54 percent of carries, none of those near paydirt.

Sell

LaMont Jordan, Raiders: Dominic Rhodes got almost half the carries last week and Jordan has had a bad back for two years.

Clinton Portis, Redskins: Not running well, but still outplaying Ladell Betts (2.9 per carry). FB Mike Sellers (280 pounds) seems to be the new, primary goal-line runner despite Portis' two short scores in Week 7.

Willie Parker, Steelers: Until Najeh Davenport gets hurt again, Parker (16 TDs in 2006) will not get a sniff of any short-yardage TDs, thanks to his terrible efficiency there this year (26 red zone rushes, one TD).

By David Ferris

"Selling Low" is generally not a recommended plan for fantasy success, but you have my blessing with Shaun Alexander. He's more interested in hitting the ground than hitting the hole these days, and you can't blame the Seahawks for parceling out touches to Maurice Morris and Leonard Weaver. It was interesting to see Mike Holmgren trading sharp words with Alexander on the sideline Sunday, in a game Seattle controlled from start to finish. We're not going to see a happy ending here.

Kevin Jones looked quick and decisive from the opening snap Sunday, and more importantly, Mike Martz was willing to stick with the running game over four quarters. Give Jones two months of health and he'll prove to be trustable as an every-week fantasy starter. Tatum Bell, incidentally, didn't get a touch against Tampa Bay.

Jesse Chatman isn't anywhere near the talent Ronnie Brown is, but at least the Miami run blocking has been upgraded to the respectable level this year. Chatman becomes a must-add this week as we find out more about Brown's knee injury.

Buffalo's play-calling in the red zone is embarrassing. It's like they're playing for three the moment they cross the 20-yard line. Normally I make it a mandate to pick fantasy kickers from winning teams, but Rian Lindell is a possible exception to the rule.

Scott Linehan's rep as an offensive genius has completely collapsed over the past year. This offense can't score or protect its quarterback, and injuries alone aren't a just excuse. In shallow leagues, it's OK to drop Marc Bulger.

It's ridiculous that the Falcons can't find at least 12-15 touches for Jerious Norwood every week, clearly the best player in this offense. Warrick Dunn looks done at age 32, plodding around at three yards a carry. Use your best personnel, Bobby Petrino.

Don't forget about Chris Henry in Cincinnati, who is two games away from reinstatement and capable of scoring 4-6 times in the second half as an explosive No. 3 receiver. Carson Palmer can't wait to have his slot machine back in the fold, taking advantage of Henry's elite talent against lesser corners.

Quick Hits:

Brian Griese has improved in every start and is a good play against the leaky Detroit secondary next week . . . Keep an ear peeled to the Elias Sports Bureau over the next few days; the Reggie Bush touchdown catch will likely be switched to a run, taking a catch away from Bush and a touchdown pass from Drew Brees . . . Bo Scaife and Vince Young may have the secret college handshake and all that, but Scaife's been more productive with Kerry Collins this year . . . Opportunity has made LenDale White viable more than anything else – he led the NFL in goal-line carries into Week 7 – but it was encouraging to see him producing in the passing game against Houston . . . A gadget play on a the game-deciding 2-point conversion? You're too cute for your own good, Ken Whisenhunt . . . A tip of the cap to Kenny Watson, a hard worker who never got his fair shot in Washington (even when the Redskins were desperate for a running back). He's earned the right to keep 40 percent of the touches even when Rudi Johnson is ready to play again . . . I've never seen a quarterback get the time to throw that Tom Brady is enjoying these days. Is the opposition required to rattle off 15 Gostkowskis before rushing the pocket? . . . Maybe there's something special about Tarvaris Jackson, but it's escaped me to this point. He'll make a nice play with his legs every now and again, but he isn't hitting his receivers in stride, when he connects with them at all . . . It didn't amount to a lot on the scoreboard, but Daunte Culpepper threw the ball better Sunday than he has in two years . . . Kurt Warner continues to be a trick-or-treat quarterback; he'll move the ball every week, but turnovers are part of the package, too . . . Brady's next three touchdown passes might just go to Russ Francis, Ben Coates and Don Hasselbeck. Brady steps on your throat with his explosive wideouts in the middle of the field, but when the Patriots get around the goal it's all about the big targets . . . I'll be very surprised if Charlie Weis isn't back in the NFL before the end of the decade.

By David Ferris

Following are complete fantasy football rankings based on this week's matchups for all the major positions (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, team defense). They are based on a combined yardage/scoring system (4 points for a passing touchdown, 6 points for a rushing/receiving touchdown, one point for every 25 passing yards, one point for every 10 rushing/receiving yards).
Last Updated: 10/20/07
* = check status

Quarterback
1. *Tom Brady, NE at MIA
NOTE: Not his favorite spot, but so what?
2. Carson Palmer, CIN vs. NYJ
3. Tony Romo, DAL vs. MIN
4. Peyton Manning, IND at JAC
NOTE: The hardest matchup on his schedule.
5. Eli Manning, NYG vs. SF
NOTE: I guess this is growing up.

>> Continue reading: Updated Week 7 position-by-position player rankings

By David Ferris

Quarterbacks

Cardinals QB Kurt Warner (elbow) did some work in practice and might be able to have some role in Sunday's game at Washington. It's still more likely that Tim Rattay will play, however, and the Cardinals won't get anything easy against an outstanding Redskins secondary.

Titans QB Vince Young (quad) did some work Friday but he's a game-time decision, at best, for Sunday's homecoming at Houston. Kerry Collins will likely get the call.

Rams QB Marc Bulger (ribs) will return to the starting lineup Sunday at Seattle.

The Ravens will start QB Kyle Boller at Buffalo, as Steve McNair is still dealing with a sore groin and back. The idea is for McNair to return after the Week 8 bye; we'll see.

Even though Bills QB J.P. Losman (knee) has been practicing this week, rookie Trent Edwards will start against the Ravens.

Jets QB Chad Pennington (ankle) is listed as questionable and missed reps all week, though he's still likely to go against Cincinnati. It's clearly a make-or-break spot for Pennington; if he doesn't produce a win here, he's essentially forcing the switch to Kellen Clemens.

The 49ers will use Trent Dilfer at the Giants Sunday, though Alex Smith (shoulder) may be in uniform.

Vikings QB Tarvaris Jackson (groin) had a full workout Friday and will be ready to handoff to his backs Sunday at Dallas.

The Dolphins feel it's too risky to have Trent Green (concussion) take another snap for them this year, so it will be the Cleo Lemon show for now, and probably the John Beck experiment later in the year.

Giants QB Anthony Wright is now the No. 2 option on the depth chart, if you wanted to know.

Running Backs

Patriots RB Laurence Maroney (groin) had another limited practice week and is very questionable for Sunday's game at Miami. At least it's an early kickoff, so status should be available around noontime eastern. Don't look for Sammy Morris (chest) to be on the field; he's very doubtful for this week and probably will be out multiple games. If Maroney and Morris both sit this one out, it becomes a backfield-by-committee with Kevin Faulk and Heath Evans getting most of the touches.

Colts RB Joseph Addai (chest/shoulder) has been practicing this week and was taken off the injury report Friday. He won't get anything easy at Jacksonville but use him anyway.

Rams RB Steven Jackson (groin) is out for at least another week, so Brian Leonard gets the rock at Seattle.

Broncos RB Travis Henry (pending suspension) will play this week and looks to be clear for at least three more games.

Bengals RB Rudi Johnson (hamstring) didn't work with the club all week and is doubtful for Sunday's game with the Jets. Kenny Watson figures to get plenty of work in Johnson's place.

Eagles RB Brian Westbrook is free of the injury report, so no worries there.

Dolphins RB Ronnie Brown (foot) is listed as probable and should take his full workload against New England.

Giants RB Brandon Jacobs (ankle) was limited in practice this week and is legitimately questionable for Sunday's game with San Francisco. Derrick Ward (ankle) seems to be move healthy, and Reuben Droughns is also an option. Be careful with this mix.

The Lions promoted RB Kevin Jones to first string, in case you missed it. Tatum Bell will be the change-of-pace back.

The Jaguars have taken it easy on Fred Taylor (groin) and Maurice Jones-Drew (thigh) in practice this week, but both are expected to go against Indianapolis Monday night. Jacksonville ran all over the Colts the last time the teams met in late 2006.

Raiders RB LaMont Jordan (back) had a good practice week and is listed as probable. Of course, Jordan was doubtful on the report last week and played, so be careful with the information this team floats out there.

Texans RB Ahman Green (knee) had a good two days of practice and looks fine for a full load against Tennessee.

Titans RB Chris Brown (ankle) isn't expected for Sunday, which means LenDale White will carry the load and Chris Henry may see some action for the first time.

Buccaneers RB Michael Bennett is expected to get some change-of-pace work at Detroit. He's still picking up the offense, of course, after joining the team mid-week.

Receivers

Texans WR Andre Johnson (knee) did more running this week but he won't be ready for Week 7, and there's no specific timetable to when he will be able to play. Maybe he'll return next week, but it's possible we won't see him until November.

Broncos WR Javon Walker had his knee cleaned out this week and will miss multiple games; the early estimates have him sitting six weeks. Brandon Stokley becomes a starter with Walker out, and Brandon Marshall figures to see some extra targets.

Colts WR Marvin Harrison (knee) sat out Friday's practice, but Tony Dungy expects Harrison to go at Jacksonville Monday.

Giants WR Plaxico Burress (ankle) wasn't practicing this week, as usual, but seeing as though he's played every week – and scored every week – you should keep using him.

Bengals WR Chad Johnson (ankle) was back at practice Friday after resting the previous day. He's fully expected to play Sunday against the Jets.

Cardinals WR Anquan Boldin (hip) did well at practice all week and is fully expected to play at Washington. He's listed as probable.

The Rams expect Torry Holt (knee) and Isaac Bruce (hamstring) to go at Seattle, but it's iffy on Drew Bennett (hamstring).

Redskins WR Santana Moss (hamstring) had a productive practice week and is a green light for Week 7. He's also got something to prove after a dreadful showing in Green Bay last week.

Jets WR Laveranues Coles (calf) should be fine for his regular workload at Cincinnati.

The Steelers will have Hines Ward (knee) and Santonio Holmes (hamstring) back for Sunday night's game at Denver, barring a pre-game setback. Both players were active in practice all week.

Patriots WR Donte Stallworth (knee) got back to full work Friday and looks fine for Sunday's game at Miami.

Buccaneers WR Ike Hilliard (shoulder) had a full day Friday and will play at Detroit.

Seahawks WR D.J. Hackett (ankle) has been working this week but is still very questionable for Week 7. You can't use him. Deion Branch (foot) has already been ruled out.

Falcons WR Joe Horn (knee) is listed as probable. We hope your search doesn't go that deep.

Broncos WR Rod Smith (hip) isn't ready to play yet.

Cowboys WR Terry Glenn (knee) might help the club later in the year, but he won't dress in Week 7.

Chiefs WR Eddie Kennison (hamstring) is out for another week.

The Chris Chambers trade means Miami will find more snaps for Derek Hagan and Ted Ginn. Hagan looks like the starter for now.

Ravens TE Todd Heap (hamstring) missed another day of practice Friday and looks unlikely to play at Buffalo. The club is also expected to miss TE Daniel Wilcox (foot).

Patriots TE Ben Watson (knee) didn't practice all week and while the club calls him a game-time decision, you're probably better off making a safer play. Kyle Brady picks up extra reps if Watson is out.

Falcons TE Alge Crumpler (knee/ankle) didn't do much this week and is considered doubtful, so use someone else. Dwayne Blakley might get an extra look or two in Crumpler's absence.

Eagles TE L.J. Smith (groin) hit a setback this week and probably won't go against Chicago.

Buccaneers TE Alex Smith (ankle) looks unlikely to go at Detroit, making Jerramy Stevens a viable sleeper in very deep leagues.

Packers TE Bubba Franks (knee) will probably miss a couple of games even after Green Bay's bye, so look at Donald Lee as a possible replacement.

Seahawks TE Marcus Pollard (knee) got back to practice Friday and will probably play against the Rams.

Dolphins TE David Martin, who surprisingly scored twice last week, has a sore ankle and is considered questionable for Sunday's game against New England.

Jets TE Chris Baker (back) is questionable and was limited all week.

Other Positions

Jaguars PK Josh Scobee (quad) isn't ready to return, so John Carney kicks on Monday night.

Texans PK Kris Brown (foot) should be fine for Sunday's game with Houston. His injury is to his non-kicking foot.

Patriots LB Adalius Thomas (ankle) should be fine for his regular role.

Dolphins LB Zach Thomas (toe) was limited all week and is questionable for Sunday's game with the Patriots.

Broncos CB Champ Bailey (quad) did some limited work Friday and will be a game-night call against the Steelers.

Ravens CB Chris McAllister (knee) is unlikely to play at Buffalo, good news for Lee Evans.

Colts S Bob Sanders (chest/ribs) should be able to go Monday at Jacksonville, a major boost to the Indy run defense.

Texans CB Dunta Robinson (hamstring) is cleared for Sunday.

By Michael Salfino

Fantasy scoreboards lit up like a pinball machines in Week 6. Some owners were still outgunned by Tom Brady (five more TD passes) and LaDainian Tomlinson (four TDs, doubling his total the first five weeks). Here's what I took out of the weekend's action.

Upgrade

Laurence Maroney, RB, Patriots: He was inactive again last week with an injured groin, but did practice last week. Sammy Morris is out indefinitely with a badly bruised sternum and the Pats are so desperate for a back that they're working out Kevan Barlow. You want to be one week early here, because if Maroney returns and gets feature-back duties with goal-line carries, he'll be an untouchable.

Michael Bennett, RB, Bucs: He's still fast but has never been able to handle a full workload. So odds are, he'll join the other Bucs backs in the ER. Once he learns the playbook, he'll get 70 percent of the carries at least for as long as he holds up. That's worth a serious free-agent flyer in every league.

Chris Chambers, WR, Chargers: He's a guy who gets by on his athletic gifts, which will speed the adjustment in San Diego. He also has a solid QB for the first time ever and will face a lot of single coverage. The Chargers' pass defense is bad. Short-term, he takes a hit. Medium- and long-term, give him an upgrade to borderline Top 25 WRs.

Hines Ward, WR, Steelers: He's healthy and probably in for a tough matchup versus Champ Bailey, also recovering from injury over the bye week. He'll be the Steelers' possession receiver and No. 1 red-zone guy going forward, and I think he'll be more productive than Santonio Holmes.

Roddy White, WR, Falcons: The QB situation is terrible, but White has great speed and runs like a RB when he gets the ball. There will be plenty of passing opportunities with the Atlanta defense 23rd in yards allowed per play and 27th in yards per pass.

DeShawn Wynn, RB, Packers: Brett Favre is throwing it up for grabs again, and the coaching staff is going to have to rein him in given their solid defense. Wynn has been anointed the clear starter with Vernand Morency the third-down back and Brandon Jackson in the gutter.

No Change

Wes Welker, WR, Patriots: Ben Watson is out for at least two weeks with a high ankle sprain, and the Patriots have three or more WR on the field for 86 percent of passing plays. Plus, all the backs are banged up, so the throw percentage for New England should hold steady, even with the Pats blowing teams up early with the pass. Hold Donte Stallworth, too.

Steve Smith, WR, Panthers: We've been through this before with Vinny Testaverde, in 2005 when he had a solid first game against a great Buc defense and then faded badly. Smith owners are hoping that a soon-to-be 44-year-old ends up being his QB for the year. Find someone in your league who views Testaverde as a solid battery mate for Smith, and get back 95 cents on the dollar.

Adrian Peterson, RB, Vikings: You always need to consider trading a guy off a monster day like Peterson had last week. When that guy didn't even get the most carries on his team, it's a slam-dunk sell. I reiterate that Peterson is from the Planet Krypton, so sell high. But the Vikings offense is not remotely explosive enough for Peterson to continue to be a top RB with less than half his team's carries.

Downgrade

Larry Fitzgerald, WR, Cardinals: Kurt Warner's status (torn non-throwing elbow) is uncertain for this week, and WR Anquan Boldin is back and likely to reassume his role as No. 1 receiver. Fitzgerald is probably the most gifted WR in the sport. But the Cardinals don't play to his strengths: incredible size, wingspan and hands to make plays deep down the sidelines on alley-oops.

Vincent Jackson, WR, Chargers: He was overdrafted everywhere, as I suspected he'd be, because it's always a big adjustment to step into the ring as a No. 1 WR. Now Chris Chambers has been brought in, and Antonio Gates is cemented as the first read. There are at least 35 or 40 better WR options going forward.

Alge Crumpler, TE, Falcons: When you take on the coaching staff, you better make sure you're doing your job. Crumpler acts the part of malcontent while dropping passes and looking out of shape. He's not on the field anymore on third downs. That's the kiss of death for a would-be top fantasy TE. Crumpler is a JAG (Just Another Guy) at the position now, in reality and in fantasy.

Brandon Jacobs, RB, Giants: After spraining his knee opening night, Jacobs finally came back in Week 5 only to suffer two more minor injuries in Week 6. He runs upright and is a huge target for linebackers at 6-foot-4, 270 pounds, so expect lots of time at the shop.

Ahman Green, RB, Texans: There's no gas in the tank. Always expect that when a back turns 30. Green owners should be grateful they're not stuck with similarly spent Shaun Alexander. Keeper alert: Houston and Seattle seem to be the most likely landing places for unrestricted-FA-to-be Michael Turner (Chargers) come March.

By David Ferris

Following are complete fantasy football rankings based on this week's matchups for all the major positions (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, team defense). They are based on a combined yardage/scoring system (4 points for a passing touchdown, 6 points for a rushing/receiving touchdown, one point for every 25 passing yards, one point for every 10 rushing/receiving yards).

Updated every Saturday in light of injury and other news from around the NFL.

* = check status

Quarterback
1. Tom Brady, NE at MIA
NOTE: Not his favorite spot, but so what?
2. Carson Palmer, CIN vs. NYJ
3. Tony Romo, DAL vs. MIN
4. Peyton Manning, IND at JAC
NOTE: The hardest matchup on his schedule.
5. Eli Manning, NYG vs. SF
NOTE: I guess this is growing up.

>> Continue reading: Complete position-by-position player rankings for Week 7

By Michael Salfino

Sunday's Patriots-Cowboys game provides a prism through which we can focus on the relative importance of passing vs. running, league-wide scoring trends and whether AFC dominance over the NFC is continuing.

High-flying New England led virtually the entire game and coasted to a 21-point (48-27) victory in Dallas over the previously undefeated Cowboys despite being inept in the running game (2.6 yards per attempt on 29 carries). More evidence that running and defending the run well is vastly overrated.

That running well opens up the pass (or vice versa) feels like it should be true.

There's no evidence of it, however. Most years, top 10 running teams measured by yards per rush are typically only average in yards per pass attempt. Last year, they were actually below average.

Thus far in 2007, the Vikings, behind Superman rookie Adrian Peterson, are No. 1 in yards per rush, 28th in yards per pass. The Eagles are 2nd and 19th, respectively. Oakland (5th and 21st), Miami (8th and 20th) and Carolina (9th and 23rd) also spit in the face of conventional wisdom.

What about the great passing game opening up the run? The Patriots are 1st in passing efficiency and 14th in rushing efficiency. If the Patriots atomically charged passing game can't create wider than average running lanes, nothing can. Houston is 4th and 32nd, Tampa Bay 5th and 20th, Seattle 9th and 25th…. Even Indy is 3rd and 12th. So, not a strong correlation that way, either.

We had a big passing year in 2004 before moving toward more point-production off the running game in the seasons since. But 2006 feels like a carbon copy of 2004. Is that just because another QB (Brady instead of Manning) is threatening to throw 50 TD passes?

Passing yards per game is up significantly and even tops 2004 levels. YPA is way up overall and especially in the AFC, where teams average nearly 7 yards per pass even after adjusting for sack yardage.

But while individuals are rolling -- with Tony Romo and Derek Anderson on pace for about 40 TD passes and Carson Palmer, Eli Manning and Peyton Manning all on pace for 30 or more -- the league-wide picture is mixed. In 2004, there were 732 aerial scores. The pace this year is 671 (648 last year). It takes more passes this year to generate a TD than last, thanks to dregs Buffalo (1 TD pass in 126 attempts), San Francisco (2 in 136), New Orleans (3 in 213) and Baltimore (4 in 238). Scoring in the passing game in 2007 is very top heavy.

Let's quickly look at interconference play, which became comical in 2006 with the AFC going 34-11 vs. the NFC down the stretch, outscoring their counterparts by an average of 7.6 points per game. Thus far in 2007, the AFC is 14-12 against the NFC, outscoring them by an average of 3.8 points per game. Outside of New England and Indy, the NFC appears to have completely closed the gap.

Now let's make some player recommendations.

Buy

Donte Stallworth, WR, Patriots: This year, 86 percent of Brady's passes come out of three- or four-WR sets. Last year, it was 76 percent. Stallworth and Wes Welker are a solid bet to score every week.

Hold

Tom Brady, QB, Patriots: He's throwing 45 TD passes, at least. Fun Brady stat of the week: he's been blitzed on 54 plays this year: three sacks, 41 completions, 7 TDs, 0 picks, 153 QB rating.

Braylon Edwards, WR, Browns: In games started by Anderson, Cleveland (bye this week) averages 32 points per game, which would be third best behind New England (38) and Indy (33). The Browns defense is conducive to more shootouts.

Sell

Chad Johnson, WR, Bengals: Carson Palmer isn't getting time to throw deep and T.J. Houshmandzadeh is the No. 1 guy in all other levels of the field. Ocho Cinco will be solid but rarely spectacular relative to his less heralded counterpart.

Adrian Peterson, RB, Vikings: He's still not starting. Chester Taylor had more carries last week (22 to 20) and the Vikes don't score enough (16th in PPG) or defend the pass well enough (19th in YPA) for Peterson to maintain this level of production in a timeshare.

By David Ferris

You saw what Adrian Peterson did when finally given the rock Sunday, and ditto for Maurice Jones-Drew. Other No. 2 backs who deserve to be similarly liberated, even if the results might not be quite as explosive: Marion Barber (does everything better than Julius Jones, including block); DeAngelo Williams (far more explosive than DeShaun Foster); Adrian Peterson, Chicago style (call him Deep Dish – and please, call Cedric Benson a cab).

It's all well and good that Washington took Clinton Portis off the injury report this week, but he certainly didn't run like someone who's healed. Tread very carefully here, and if you can still get most of the sticker price, do some selling. This isn't to suggest that Ladell Betts can fix this ground game – he's been running in quicksand all year

Playing the matchups is always the way to go with your fantasy defense, and no team hands out the goodies more than Detroit, with its leaky protection scheme. Tampa Bay gets fat this next week, with Denver waiting for Week 9 and Arizona in Week 10. Check your waiver wire, and remember to not invest anything substantial in this position when you draft next summer.

Scouting Notebook favorite Derek Anderson had another big game Sunday, a mark-your-territory effort if there ever was one (had he flopped against Miami, it may have encouraged the Browns to start the clock on Brady Quinn). Instead the Browns head into their bye at 3-3 and the status quo lives. The Browns put out the most entertaining (and fantasy-friendly) three hours in the league right now; no one can stop them, they can't stop anyone. Go where the numbers are.

Ever notice what Tom Brady does after a touchdown pass? Usually nothing – no pointing to the sky, no Snoopy dance, no silly posturing. Perhaps this is a subtle key to his success – when you play a position that requires calmness and constant focus, no need getting too excited about anything.

I can't see how Eric Mangini can continue postpone the inevitable. Kellen Clemens won't save this season, but he'll give the Jets a significant head start on 2008. Jerricho Cotchery, a good player to begin with, stands to gain the most from a switch to Clemens

Quick Hits: Devin Hester isn't real, kids. A video-game company made him up . . . Brian Griese may not be a savior, but he's produced in two straight weeks, and he faces Detroit's Cover-0 next week . . . Winning team, good defense, drive-and-staff offense; that's the formula Matt Stover has been cashing in on for years . . . When I watch Matt Jones, the words "sunk cost" jump out at me – scaling higher than Jones does on one of those ill-conceived fade passes around the goal line . . . Rust or no rust, Vinny Testaverde showed he's still better than David Carr (I suppose that's always going to be true). And with that, Steve Smith lives . . . Not that Randy Moss owners have any reason to be unhappy, but keep in mind he had two touchdowns overturned Sunday in addition to the one that stood up. It was a day of hat tricks around the league, and he was very close to adding his name to the list. Brady has to be pinching himself – Reche Caldwell was his featured receiver last year, for crying out loud . . . The Chiefs allowed some garbage stuff to the Bengals late, but don't be fooled – this is an underrated defense, and at the end of the day, an underrated team. Perhaps the Chiefs can make a run at a winning record again . . . Jeff Garcia still scrambles a bit to make a play, but don't look for rushing yards from him at this point in his career. He's got just 30 of them through six games . . . Cleo Lemon certainly is a work in progress at this stage of his career, but I saw resourcefulness and moxie at Cleveland. Miami should give Lemon some time to establish himself before looking at John Beck in December . . . The Jaguars front seven was gouged in Week 1, but it's been exacting revenge ever since. Find an excuse to not use your runners against this nasty group . . . Imagine how good Jason Campbell would be if his wide receivers could catch. That group handed away a game Washington had no rights losing . . . At the end of the day, Chad Johnson is the mouthiest No. 2 wideout in the league. Still a talent, but T.J. Houshmandzadeh is the soul of that passing game.

By David Ferris

Quarterbacks

Chiefs QB Damon Huard (shoulder) did well enough during the week to be taken off the injury report. He'll start against Cincinnati.

Ravens QB Steve McNair (back) missed practice the last two days, leaving him very questionable for Sunday's date with St. Louis. Many people feel Kyle Boller would fit Baltimore's offense better.

Dolphins QB Trent Green sustained a Type 3 concussion against Houston and is out indefinitely. QB Cleo Lemon starts this week at Cleveland, and rookie QB John Beck may play later in the year.

Cardinals QB Matt Leinart (broken collarbone) is out for the year. The offense is clearly better with Kurt Warner anyway.

Jets QB Chad Pennington (ankle) missed practice time all week and is listed as questionable, though he's expected to play against the Eagles. Pennington needs to play well this week if he's going to hold off a switch to Kellen Clemens.

Rams QB Marc Bulger (ribs) sits for at least another week, setting up Gus Frerotte to start at Baltimore. Bulger may need to dress as the backup, though, with the Rams short at the position.

Panthers QB David Carr (back) practiced Friday and should start against the Cardinals. Old friend Vinny Testaverde, who won a Heisman Trophy back in the leather-helmet days, was signed this week to be the No. 2. Jake Delhomme (elbow) is out for the season.

Minnesota head coach Brad Childress hasn't disclosed his QB starter between Tarvaris Jackson and Kelly Holcomb. Hopefully your Week 6 fortunes aren't tied to that.

49ers QB Alex Smith (shoulder) hopes to return in Week 7.

Falcons QB Byron Leftwich (ankle) should dress for Monday's game with the Giants, though Joey Harrington is confirmed to start.

Running Backs

Eagles RB Brian Westbrook (abdomen) had a good practice week and should go against the Jets. He's listed as probable.

Bengals RB Rudi Johnson (hamstring) did some work Friday and is listed as probable for Sunday's trip to Kansas City. It looks like Johnson will likely go but split time with Kenny Watson.

Dolphins RB Ronnie Brown (foot) is listed as probable, though after Friday's full workout there's no reason not to play him at Cleveland. Green light.

Rams RB Steven Jackson (groin) has worked some this week, though he won't play at Baltimore. There's also talk that Jackson may not be ready until Week 10. Brian Leonard starts in the meantime.

Browns RB Jamal Lewis (foot) didn't practice all week and while he's considered a game-day call against Miami, it would be a surprise if he played. That makes Jason Wright a great waiver-wire rental, staring down the leaky Miami front seven.

Raiders RB LaMont Jordan is struggling mightily with his back – it's been described as "worse than ever" – so don't look for him on the field at San Diego. Justin Fargas and Dominic Rhodes (just off his suspension) figure to split the work.

Jaguars RB Fred Taylor has a nagging groin injury and is considered questionable for Sunday's game with Houston. He didn't practice Friday. Perhaps this will encourage the Jags to finally give Maurice Jones-Drew a heavy afternoon of work.

Texans RB Ahman Green (knee) had a good week and is off the injury report. Houston welcomes him back, as Ron Dayne was plodding around the last few weeks and leaving a ton of yards on the field.

Broncos RB Travis Henry is off this week with the rest of his Denver teammates. After that it's anyone's guess what happens with his pending drug suspension, but don't be surprised if weeks go by before the official ruling is put down. It's too early to drop Henry in any fantasy league, that's the point, though you're wise to speculate on Selvin Young or even Andre Hall.

Patriots RB Laurence Maroney (groin) did some work this week but he's the dreaded game-time decision for Sunday's showdown at Dallas. Given that it's a late game and Sammy Morris has played so well, you probably shouldn't risk it with Maroney in this spot.

Packers RB Vernand Morency (knee) had a full practice Friday, not that you want to touch anyone in this backfield, just too many guys. Brandon Jackson (shin) did some work too but he's no sure thing for Washington. If you have to use someone here, DeShawn Wynn is the best option.

Redskins RB Clinton Portis is off the injury report this week.

Buccaneers RB Michael Pittman (leg) is out for 6-8 weeks, so Earnest Graham by default carries the load for Tampa Bay. Kenneth Darby is No. 2 option, and the Bucs also added Zack Crockett this week.

Receivers

Giants WR Plaxico Burress (ankle) didn't practice again Friday but given what we've seen from him to this point in the year, it would be a major surprise if he didn't go Monday at Atlanta. Bottom line, keep using him until he gives you a reason not to.

Cardinals WR Anquan Boldin (hip) missed another day Friday and is very unlikely to play against the Panthers. Teammate Bryant Johnson figures to go in his place, even as he's dealing with a bruised thigh.

Texans WR Andre Johnson (knee) has made some progress this week and might be able to return for Week 7. He's not expected Sunday against Jacksonville.

All of the Rams receivers seem to be hurt, though WR Torry Holt (knee) returned to practice and seems fine for Baltimore. Isaac Bruce (hamstring) won't play, however, and Drew Bennett (thigh) isn't worth a risk start.

Bears WR Bernard Berrian (foot) had a full day of work Friday after missing the two prior sessions. He's listed as questionable but it looks like he'll start against the Vikings.

Seahawks WR Deion Branch (foot) will miss at least two weeks, which bumps up the value of veteran Bobby Engram.

Redskins WR Antwaan Randle El (hamstring) missed another day Friday and probably won't be ready for Green Bay. Santana Moss (groin) is expected to play, however.

Chiefs WR Eddie Kennison re-aggravated his hamstring last week and won't dress against the Bengals.

Titans WR Brandon Jones (knee) did some work on the side but he's a game-time decision at best for the trip to Tampa Bay.

Browns WR Joe Jurevicius (knee) was limited all week and is questionable at best for Sunday's game with Miami.

Laveranues Coles (knee) was limited during the week but is expected to start against the Eagles.

Patriots WR Donte' Stallworth (knee) was limited again on Friday and is questionable (whatever that means in New England) for Week 6.

Browns TE Kellen Winslow (shoulder) missed some time Friday but he's still expected to go against Miami. You keep using him for sure.

Ravens TE Todd Heap (hamstring) got back to a full practice Friday and looks good for Sunday's running with the Rams.

Falcons TE Alge Crumpler (knee) was limited Friday but should go in Monday's game with the Giants.

49ers TE Vernon Davis (knee) is expected to return after the Week 6 bye.

Eagles TE L.J. Smith (groin) was back at practice this week and might be able to play against the Jets this week.

Packers TE Bubba Franks (knee) was back to full work Friday and will play against Washington.

Seahawks TE Marcus Pollard (leg) is listed as questionable.

Other Positions

Texans PK Kris Brown has a sore foot (his non-kicking foot, as it were) and while not 100 percent, he's expected to play this weekend.

Saints PK Olindo Mare (groin) passed the late-week tests and will stick with the Saints, at least for another week.

Dolphins PK Jay Feely is less than 100 percent but will go at Cleveland. He's quietly made his last 21 field-goal attempts, for what it's worth.

Jaguars PK Josh Scobee (quad) isn't ready to return yet.

By David Ferris

Following are complete fantasy football rankings based on this week's matchups for all the major positions (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, team defense). They are based on a combined yardage/scoring system (4 points for a passing touchdown, 6 points for a rushing/receiving touchdown, one point for every 25 passing yards, one point for every 10 rushing/receiving yards).

Updated 10/13/07

* = check status

Quarterback
1. Tom Brady, NE at DAL
2. Carson Palmer, CIN at KC
3. Eli Manning, NYG at ATL
4. Tony Romo, DAL vs. NE
NOTE: Has short memory needed at this position.
5. Donovan McNabb, PHI at NYJ

>> Continue reading: Updated position-by-position player rankings

By Michael Salfino

On Columbus Day weekend in the NFL that last “s” did not stand for “scoring,” as fantasy points were at a yearly low. But there are winners and losers every week and we learn as much from slow weeks as from ones where the points come fast and furious.

Upgrade

Larry Johnson, RB, Chiefs: He’s LaDainian Tomlinson this year without the TDs. That was a huge compliment about a month and a half ago. You have to suck it up and hope he dominates the terrible run defenses of Cincinnati and Oakland the next two weeks before the bye, which gives you two weeks to trade him for 80 cents on the dollar instead of the 50 you’d get now.

Jay Cutler, QB, Broncos: Hasn’t scored, but has a solid YPA. The loss of Travis Henry looms. Javon Walker should come back after the bye and the defense is very banged up, especially in the secondary. All the fundamentals are there for Cutler to be a sleeper QB the second half of the fantasy season. But it will get worse before it gets better versus the Steelers in Week 7 after the bye.

Antonio Gates, TE, Chargers: He’s be a Top 5 guy if he was listed among receivers, given his 40 catches (on pace for 128). I’d only take Moss ahead of him right now in non-TE leagues. The Chargers defense is one of the league’s worst versus the pass when measured by YPA against. So, Rivers will keep having to throw a lot more and should keep chucking it to the most uncoverable receiver in the sport – too fast for linebackers, too athletic for safeties, too big for corners.

Kellen Clemens, QB, Jets: The Jets will be 1-5 after the loss to Philly on Sunday. Then they have to stare down the barrel at Washington, Pittsburgh and Dallas around a bye. The season is officially a disaster. Eric Mangini must bench Chad “Pop-Gun” Pennington so that Clemens can build some confidence up against the terrible Bills and Bengals defenses and go from there. The Jets receivers are tremendous.

Jerious Norwood, RB, Falcons: Keeps getting promised more carries and Warrick Dunn (age 32) is officially Done at 3.4 yards per attempt. The offense is terrible and Norwood likely will not get goal-line work. But he’ll be worthy of playing in deep leagues should the Falcons decide to bench or trade (back to Tampa Bay?) Dunn.

Kevin Jones, RB, Lions: Detroit’s offense looked lost last week, but Jones was a semi-bright spot. He’s healthy enough now to get at least 60 or 70 percent of the carries, which is all feature backs get nowadays anyway. And the goal-line stuff he owns already.

Kellen Winslow, TE, Browns: As long as impressive QB Derek Anderson is in there, I love him. Forget the shoulder, he’s playing through the pain. He’s on the field and standing upright on every third down and hurry-up drive. The Browns will need to quicken the pace a lot because their defense is very bad. You rarely see consistent production from a TE five weeks running as we’ve seen with Winslow. With Joe Jurevicius battling a knee injury, he’s now the No. 1 option in the red zone, too.

Plaxico Burress, WR, Giants: Forget the ankle. He’s playing through it. Don’t concern yourself with the missed practices – Sterling Sharpe did that once for almost an entire season and didn’t miss a beat. Bottom line: 7 TDs on just 24 catches and he is saving his biggest plays for late, so it’s not like the ankle is limiting him as Sunday wears on.

Anthony Gonzalez, WR, Colts: I’d stash him in deep leagues as he will be on the field on third downs and an injury to any one of three guys gets him there on first and second downs, too. Peyton Manning looked very comfortable throwing to him on Sunday. Marvin Harrison is rumored to have an Andre Johnson-like knee sprain and Johnson is set to miss his fourth straight week.

No Change

Joseph Addai, RB, Colts: Yes, any competent runner can pile up stats in the Colts offense with defenses placing all eyeballs on Peyton Manning at all times. But Kenton Keith’s performance is unlikely, in my opinion, to cut into Addai’s workload because Addai is a pup, the Colts are cruising and he’s done nothing to deserve a reduction. Addai is also better in pass protection and swinging out of the backfield, as Manning was frustrated at least once by Keith running a wrong route.

Ronnie Brown, RB, Dolphins: He’s the only healthy, starting back averaging over 5.0 per pop. The loss of QB Trent Green (severe concussion) hurts and there are rumors he might not play again. For as long as he’s out, defenses will not respect the pass versus backup Cleo Lemon or 26-year-old rookie John Beck. He’ll remain at least the top 10 back I hoped he’d be in August, but this is a passing year.

Santonio Holmes, WR, Steelers: Tough break for his owners as he pulled his hammy in pre-game warm-ups, but all indications are he’ll be ready to roll after the bye this week.

Edgerrin James, RB, Cardinals: I’m not going to turn the quiet day against the bad Rams defense into a justification for my preseason statement that he was ready for the glue factory. I was wrong. He’s productive and still has tread on the tires, leading the NFC in first downs.

Kurt Warner, QB, Cardinals: He should be a starter in 12-team leagues. He looks to be near Rams form and has two All-World talents at WR. The Cards have also allowed only five sacks this year.

Downgrade

Willie Parker, RB, Steelers: You can rationalize away Najeh Davenport's two short, Week 5 TDs. “Parker was tired after the long run to the one.” But there was timeout after a booth challenge and Davenport was stuffed on first down. “Parker was tired after three runs to get them down the five.” Okay, but what prime-time back gets winded when he’s on the doorstep? Read the writing on the wall.

Roy Williams, WR, Lions: The Lions can’t protect the passer, 19 sacks allowed and last in protecting the QB even when you adjust for their many attempts. That means shorter routes or a big increase in their league-low 31 percent running plays. Williams owners should root for max protection, but Martz is wedded to flooding the secondary with five receivers.

By David Ferris

Following are complete fantasy football rankings based on this week's matchups for all the major positions (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, team defense). They are based on a combined yardage/scoring system (4 points for a passing touchdown, 6 points for a rushing/receiving touchdown, one point for every 25 passing yards, one point for every 10 rushing/receiving yards).

Updated every Saturday in light of injury and other news from around the NFL.
* = check status

Quarterback
1. Tom Brady, NE at DAL
2. Carson Palmer, CIN at KC
3. Eli Manning, NYG at ATL
4. Tony Romo, DAL vs. NE
NOTE: Has short memory needed at this position.
5. Donovan McNabb, PHI at NYJ

>> Continue reading: Position-by-position player rankings for Week 6

By Michael Salfino

There's at least 25 percent of the season in the books for every team, and almost a third of it for most. So let's take a statistical look around the NFL and assume that current trends will be lasting.

Over many years of analysis, a team that averages more than one yard more per pass attempt than they allow is very likely to be a playoff team. If you're more than two yards better than what you allow (sack yardage included), you're a bona fide Super Bowl contender.

Amazingly, just one team is currently in our playoff-worthy, plus-1 to plus-2 tier: the Houston Texans. But the Super Bowl-tier of teams that have a YPA differential of at least plus-2 yards is uncharacteristically crowded: Patriots, Cowboys, Colts, Steelers, Buccaneers and Redskins.

What about the bad (minus-1 YPA differential) and horribly bad teams (minus-2 or worse). The merely bad are the Falcons, Ravens, Vikings and Jets. The horribly bad: the Bills, Bears, Rams and Niners. And in their own special category of badness, clocking in at an almost unfathomable minus-4.5 yards per attempt: the New Orleans Saints.

Looking only at the defenses, here are the teams you don't want to pass against when measured by YPA: the Redskins, Steelers, Titans, Bucs and Patriots. They all have provided devilish matchups thus far for any QB and WR corps.

Fun to pass against are the Saints, Jets, Bears, Chargers and Bills. Everyone is blaming Norv Turner and the offense for the early trouble in San Diego. But the pass defense seems more to blame. Similarly, the pass defense of the Bears has been more disappointing than even the QB play of Rex Grossman, who we all knew was a problem.

When looking at yards per rushing attempt allowed, the easy marks for running backs are the Bengals, Raiders, Broncos, Browns and Bills. Conversely, runners find a veritable brick wall when slamming into the front sevens of the Vikings, Ravens, Eagles, Giants and Saints. See what a great run defense buys you, New Orleans? Bupkis.

As for league-wide trends, it's easier to throw the ball this year in the NFL (6.6 net YPA on average versus 6.4 last year) and harder to run it (4.07 per carry this year, 4.16 in 2006). Both points per game (21) and yards per game (325) are up very slightly for the average team compared to 2006.

Now lets look at stats for some individual performers.

Buy

Tom Brady, QB, Patriots: He's averaging a TD on 10 percent of his attempts. When Peyton Manning set the NFL record with 49 TD passes in 2004, he tossed a TD on 9.9 percent of attempts. This is Brady's Sgt. Pepper year.

Andre Davis, WR, Texans: The Andre Johnson injury is lingering. Davis has stepped into the void, leading the NFL in yards per catch (20.5). Just behind him, in order, are Santonio Holmes (Steelers), Braylon Edwards (Browns), Greg Jennings (Packers) and Antwaan Randle El (Redskins, hamstring).

Derek Anderson, QB, Browns: He's third in the league in TD passes and averaging 7.9 yard per attempt with two great receiving threats (Edwards and TE Kellen Winslow). The only QBs ahead of Anderson in YPA are Brady, Tony Romo (Cowboys), David Garrard (Jaguars), Jeff Garcia (Bucs), Manning and Jon Kitna (Lions).

Hold

Drew Brees, QB, Saints: I'd look for the first selling opportunity, as he has a pathetic 5.25 YPA with one TD toss. Yes, of course he'll get better, but not 2006 better.

Ronnie Brown, RB, Dolphins: The only healthy, starting back averaging over 5.0 per pop. The loss of QB Trent Green (concussion) would hurt, as he's a professional and defenses will not respect the pass versus backup Cleo Lemon.

T.J. Houshmandzadeh, WR, Bengals: Leads the NFL in average catches per game (9.9). And he also continues to find the end zone more than Chad Johnson, more highly regarded presumably for his endzone celebrations.

Sell

Cedric Benson, RB, Bears: Averaging a pathetic 3.0 per rush. Other big-name backs under 3.5: LaDainian Tomlinson, Thomas Jones (Jets), Warrick Dunn (Falcons), Larry Johnson (Chiefs) and Rudi Johnson (Bengals).

Jon Kitna, QB, Lions: He's an injury waiting to happen, having been sacked 19 times already this year. Defenses apparently have caught up to Mike Martz's four-WR sets.