Torrey Smith WR- Ravens
After sitting out the first two games with an injury, the rookie had a great debut – 152 yards and 3 touchdowns. In Week 11 he had another big game – 165 yards and 1 touchdown. Around those two performances he caught three or less balls in eight of his remaining twelve games, found the end zone just three more times and averaged 44 yards a contest. With the Ravens run-first offense and average quarterback play, don’t look for consistency from Smith in year two.

Chris ‘Beanie’ Wells RB- Cardinals
Although Wells was fairly consistent finding the end zone in 2011 – he scored ten touchdowns – he was not the consistent kind of number two runningback you could put in the lineup every week. In Week 4 and Week 12 he combined for 366 yards and four touchdowns. Buyer beware however. He played in fourteen regular season games and averaged less than three yards per carry in ten of them.

Matt Cassel QB- Chiefs
In Week 5 Cassel had the type of game Kansas City fans and owners who drafted the career back up were hoping for – 257 yards passing and four touchdowns. That joy was short lived however. In the ten games he was able to play without injury he had just one more game where he threw more than one touchdown pass. The Chiefs were injury riddled all year, but with Dwayne Bowe, fantasy owners were expecting more.

Vincent Jackson WR- Bucs
This one surprised me a bit. Jackson gets so much press and is widely regarded as at least a top twenty and maybe even a top ten wide receiver. In Week 9 Jackson had 141 yards and three touchdowns, but only six more touchdowns the rest of the year – two of those came in one game. I need more consistency than four scores in his remaining fourteen games. Now he has moved from the sometimes dynamic Charger offense to the inconsistent Bucs offense. An inconsistent receiver on an inconsistent offense is not a combination I like going into 2012.

Christian Ponder QB- Vikings
I doubt Ponder will be on anyone’s short list as a number one fantasy quarterback, but if you think the young quarterback showed enough promise in year one to be worth a look late in the draft as a number two quarterback consider this: In Week 13 the Florida State product threw for nearly 400 yards and three touchdowns. In his remaining nine starts he threw ten touchdowns. Injuries were part of that regression, but the quarterback and team are clearly a couple of years away.

Fantasy Football:

Since the 2011 fantasy football season ended, you’ve had a brief period to recharge. Yet many of you already want to start planning your 2012 drafts. This column will deliver the jump start that you need to begin that process.

We will examine QBs that provided the best and worst value for their owners during the 2011 fantasy season. This will be determined by combining their final numbers, and their average draft position heading into the regular season. We’ll utilize standard scoring of six points per TD, one point per 20 passing yards, and one point per 10 rushing/receiving yards in a 12-team league.

BEST VALUE

Matthew Stafford

No player had the phrase “if he could just stay healthy” attached to his name with more frequency than Stafford entering the 2011 regular season. He had missed a whopping 19 games due to injury in his initial two seasons, which was the primary reason that he was just a seventh round draft pick, after 10 other QBs had been chosen.  But he thoroughly rewarded those who selected him, by remaining in Detroit’s lineup for all 16 games, and leading the NFL with 663 passing attempts. He was one of just three signal callers to exceed 5,000 passing yards (5,038), which surpassed the totals of Aaron Rodgers and Philip Rivers. He also finished third with 41 TD passes. The fact that Calvin Johnson is his primary option remains an enormous plus, and he should be one of the first five QBs selected in 2012.

Eli Manning

Eli’s career averages of 3,335 yards, 22 TDs, and 16 Ints in seven seasons were respectable enough, but not necessarily exceptional. Which is why fantasy owners made him a seventh round selection, and chose him 13^th among all QBs. However, he became a very sound investment by delivering his best season statistically. First, by establishing a new career high in passing yardage, by narrowly missing 5,000 yards. and finishing fourth among all QB in with 4,933. He also was sixth with 29 TDs, and only tossed 16 Ints, which was a sizable improvement from the 25 that he surrendered in 2010. He has surpassed 4,000 passing yards in three consecutive years, and possesses dynamic weapons at WR, that will help him exceed that number again next season.

Cam Newton

There were concerns about his accuracy. His pocket presence.  Plus, his ability to move through progressions. And that doesn’t even include the “character issues” that were part of the prevailing concerns surrounding Newton before the season began. As a result, he was just an 11^th round selection, as 26 signal callers were chosen before him. Including Kevin Kolb, and Matt Cassel. To say that he proved all doubters wrong would be a massive understatement. He threw for over 4,000 yards (4,051) which ranked him 10^th overall, and he also finished 11th with 21 TD passes. He led all QBs with 706 rushing yards, which also placed him 26^th overall. Probably his most impressive number would be his 14 rushing TDs, which were the NFL’s second highest, trailing only LeSean McCoy. He should be one of the top five QBs selected next summer. Simple as that.

Andy Dalton

He was chosen 25^th among all QBs, as fellow rookies Christian Ponder, Blaine Gabbert, and Jake Locker were on the list of signal callers who were drafted ahead of him. But he ascended beyond them with his production, while starting all 16 regular season contests, and leading the Bengals to the post-season. Dalton finished 13^th with 20 TD passes, and 16^th with 3,398 yards. He also completed 58% of his passes, while averaging 6.6 YPA. Dalton has the luxury of utilizing A.J. Green as his primary target, and you should see improvement in his numbers and his draft position next season.

Tim Tebow

You may be among those who have passed the point of overload regarding Tebow discussions. But for our purposes, he should be recognized as a productive fantasy QB, whose numbers far exceeded those of a 15^th round draft choice. Yes, his 45.6 completion % is a concern. And 2,180 passing yards, with 12 TDs and six Ints do not compare favorably with the numbers of the NFL’s elite passers. But in 11 starts, Tebow averaged 47.1 YPG as a rusher, ran for at least 50 yards seven times, and exceeded 60 in five contests. His 660 yards placed him 28^th overall for the year, and third among QBs. Plus, six of his rushes resulted in TDs. Let others debate the degree of his skill level, and simply focus on this: if he is allowed the opportunity to start for the Broncos, he will be a steady point producer for your teams.

WORST VALUE

Michael Vick

His amazing renaissance season of 2010 season included a surplus of impressive numbers that were assembled in just 12 games. He passed for over 3,000 yards (3,018) and a career high 21 TDs while throwing just six Ints. Plus, he ran for nine additional scores, while helping many owners to fantasy championships. As a result, he was the second QB selected in the majority of drafts, with a 9.5 ADP. But he failed to replicate those numbers in 2011, as he threw for fewer TDs (18) in 13 contests, while his Ints increased substantially (14).  Worse, he managed just one rushing TD. His output was a massive disappointment for those who invested their critical first round pick on the 11th-year signal caller, and he should slide to the third round of your next drafts.

Josh Freeman

Fantasy owners were sufficiently impressed with Freeman’s 2010 numbers – 25 TDs, 3,451 yards, and just six Ints, to invest in the hope of continual improvement during 2011. He became the 12^th signal caller selected, ahead of Eli Manning, and Cam Newton among others. While he finished 13^th in passing yardage with 3,592, he was just 18th in TD passes, as his total plummeted to 16. And his Ints increased astronomically to 22, which was the NFL’s second highest total. He would benefit greatly by an infusion of talent at WR, but even if that occurs, you should proceed with caution on draft day.       

Kevin Kolb

The Cardinals were convinced that Kolb would thrive in their offensive system, and rewarded him with a $65 million contract. A reasonable percentage of analysts concurred that he would be highly productive, since he was joining an Arizona offense that was conducive to his skills. Plus, he would possess an elite target in (then) four–time Pro Bowler Larry Fitzgerald. Fantasy owners subsequently chose Kolb 16^th among all QBs, in hopes that he would achieve the 20+ TD season that some were projecting. Instead, he was alarmingly ineffective while in the lineup, generating just 1,955 yards, nine TDs, and eight Ints. Toe, foot, and concussion issues also reduced his season to nine games, and he was outperformed by John Skelton. After two consecutive seasons of optimistic forecasts, followed only by an enormous letdown, Kolb should not be among your draft options in 2012.

Sam Bradford

After a commendable rookie season in which he passed for 3,512 yards, and 18 TDs, while connecting on 60% of his passes, many owners believed that he had ascended into a tier that also comprised Eli, Matt Ryan, Matt Schaub, Ben Roethlisberger, and Joe Flacco. Some of them exercised patience, then utilized a seventh round pick to select him, with hopes that he would deliver highly productive numbers. But the 14^th QB selected was a victim of numerous shortcomings that engulfed the Rams, and finished just 27^th with 2,164 passing yards. He also generated only six TDs, while tossing six Ints. Unfortunately, the only category in which he was among the league leaders was in sacks, where he tied for sixth with 36 despite being in the lineup for only 10 games. His numbers should improve next season, although expectations should remain tempered.

Fantasy Football:

Fantasy Playoff RB Ranking Report: Week 14

Hopefully, you are about to be rewarded for months of exhaustive research and dedication that you placed into managing your fantasy teams, by securing a playoff spot in your league. We want you to win your league championships, and this column is yet another resource that we are providing to accomplish that goal.

Below, you will find comprehensive rankings of the top 50 running backs for this week’s encounters. Plus, some commentary to assist you with your lineup dilemmas.

If you own any of the elite backs that are unquestioned must starts, this column will not reiterate what you already know, with glowing accounts regarding their explosive ability. You really don’t need reassurance about starting Ray Rice against the Colts, but you might about starting Beanie Wells against the 49ers. However, their matchups are important – good or bad – and will not be totally ignored either. Still, there will be more detail provided about the backs that are most likely to create indecisiveness. And hopefully, you will finish reading this having secured the solutions that you need.

As you concentrate on matchups, injuries, weather, and other factors during this critical week, owners who are planning to start Rashard Mendenhall, or Peyton Hillis, must also make sure that they are safely inserted into your lineups before Thursday night’s kickoff.

With that, let’s progress to a detailed look at which running backs you should depend upon, to help maximize the chances of winning your fantasy matchups in week 14.

DEFINITE STARTS

Marshawn Lynch
This is likely the last time that he will be listed here, because he has now elevated himself into absolute must start status, along with the other backs who are being supplied with this week’s best matchups. He has now scored in eight consecutive games, and has rushed for 591 yards in his last five. And Sunday he will line up against the NFL’s worst run defenders. What is there to even think about?  Start him against the woeful Rams, and enjoy watching him deliver fantasy points for you.

Chris Johnson
The curious case of Chris Johnson appears to have finally resolved itself. After he presented frustrated fantasy owners with 366 yards and just one TD in his first eight games, he has gashed his last four opponents for 486 yards and three TDs. Now that his more recent numbers have resembled the torrid place that we had been accustomed to in previous seasons, it is now finally reasonable to expect favorable results against New Orleans’ 16th ranked rush defense (114.6 YPG). Plus, he will encounter even less resistance in week 15, during his enticing rematch with the Colts’ 30th ranked run defenders.

Willis McGahee
There really should not be any reason for caution about starting McGahee at this point. He has supplied us with every reason to believe that he will continue generating sizable yardage for the remainder of the season. After gashing the Bears for 111 yards on 20 attempts, he has exceeded 100 in six games, including his last two. He is closing in on his fourth 1,000-yard rushing season, which would also be his first since 2007. Plus, he plays through injuries, and is given a massive workload while doing so (18 APG). He should deliver another 100-yard effort, against a Chicago rush defense that could find themselves on the field extensively, due to the shortcomings of their injury depleted offense.

Reggie Bush
There should be no remaining doubters, as Bush’s ongoing performances have necessitated a thorough reassessment of his abilities. He has exploded for 435 yards and five TDs in his last six games, while adeptly handling an extensive workload in the process (16 APG). Not only has he established a new career high with 667 yards for the season, but he has consistently been effective between the tackles. All of which eliminates any reason to keep him reserved in your lineups. He should maintain his recent success, versus a 17^th ranked Philadelphia rush defense that has permitted 252 yards in their last two encounters.

Shonn Greene
The ground and pound approach been beneficial to Greene, who has averaged 18 APG in the seven games that he has been healthy since week 5. The extensive opportunities that he has been allotted have enabled him to accumulate 582 yards in his past eight games, while rushing for at least 70 in six of them. That includes the 88 yards that he amassed against the Redskins, which were supplemented by three TDs. Fantasy owners can be confident that he will continue to garner a healthy workload, and that he will find success against a Kansas City rush defense, that has allowed 602 yards in their last four games.

Roy Helu
As always, it is extremely dangerous for fantasy owners to rely upon any RB whose playing time is determined by  Mike Shanahan, and we were supplied with weekly evidence that supports that premise throughout most of the regular season. But Helu has been so effective, that he deserves to be in your starting lineups. He has been allotted exactly 23 carries in two consecutive games, and has taken advantage of the expanded workload by generating 208 yards (4.5 YPC) and two TDs in those contests. He possesses a burst, and has demonstrated that he will run with a purpose, making it nearly impossible for even Shanahan to alter his recent ball distribution.  He should deliver more excellent numbers against New England.

START THEM, BUT…

Beanie Wells
He will be forced to overcome his knee issue for the remainder of the season, although he has certainly proven that he can. He not only ranks ninth in rushing for the season with 916 yards, but is also tied for third among all RBs with nine rushing TDs. The concern is that he will line up against the 49ers, who have yet to permit any rushing TDs all season, and are nearly as unforgiving about allowing yardage (71.8). But unless you somehow have two better options, it is extremely difficult to sit him. Even with the horrific matchup versus San Francisco’s unrelenting run stoppers.

Michael Bush
He entered week 13 having gashed opponents for 530 rushing yards, and 731 total yards in his last five games. But that incredible bounty of fantasy points that Bush’s owners had been enjoying, came to abrupt end in Miami (10 carries, 18 yards), as did his streak of four consecutive games with a TD. So, where do owners go now? The return of Darren McFadden appears at least one more week away, therefore Bush’s appeal as the feature back remains intact. But can he rebound against Green Bay’s 13^th ranked rush defense?  The Packers are likely to score frequently, which could easily force the Raiders to forsake their running game more quickly than they normally would. That will place a cap on Bush’s production.

Donald Brown
In his last four games, Brown has averaged 14.5 YPG, and has rewarded the Colts with 244 yards, and 4.2 YPC. He has also scored two consecutive games, while exhibiting that he is currently Indy’s most effective runner. If Brown hasn’t already ascended into the team’s feature back, his workload is sizable enough to merit consideration in your lineups. And Brown is of course a legitimate roster addition, if he is somehow still available. While you should certainly utilize him for his week 15 matchup with Tennessee, it will be exceedingly difficult for him to negotiate yardage against Baltimore on Sunday.

BEST WAIVER WIRE ADDITIONS

Marion Barber
Forte owners who follow the advice of this column added Barber long ago. However, if he still available in your league, add him immediately. While he will deliver fantasy points, the one concern is exactly how many. He generated just 44 yards on 14 attempts against a Kansas City rush defense that entered the contest ranked 25^th. His issue if the lack of respect for Chicago’s passing game with Caleb Hanie. That enables opposing defenders to focus further upon containing the run. Denver (121.2) will certainly do that too. Still, if you are in need, Barber is a legitimate option.

Toby Gerhart
As of this writing, Adrian Peterson’s status is unclear, making Gerhart’s value worthy of discussion. In three games as a starter, both his opportunities and his yardage totals have steadily improved. His 91-yard rushing effort against Denver, was supplemented by 42 yards on eight receptions. That helped establish him as an option for fantasy owners, whose rosters have suddenly become depleted due to late season injuries. Another Gerhart start would involve an enticing matchup with Detroit’s 22nd ranked rush defense (125 YPG) which elevates him into consideration, if injuries have depleted you options.

Ricky Williams
Sure, he has only carried 82 times all season, and has exceeded nine attempts in just three games. But one of those occurred in week 13, when the Ravens chose to exploit Cleveland’s woeful rush defense. Williams garnered 16 attempts, and responded by generating a season high 76 yards, and a TD. That scenario could easily be replicated, against a Colt rush defense that is even worse (144.2 YPG, 17 TDs). If you are searching for help, he could provide a scoring boost.

AVOID IF YOU CAN

Jonathan Stewart
At least he was able to garner more attempts than fellow Panther RB DeAngelo Williams for the first time since week 9, and accomplished far more with them. By amassing a season high 80 yards and a TD with his 14 carries, Stewart reestablished that he is more trustworthy than Williams, even though both backs possess a low ceiling to their opportunities. Fantasy owner should not only be ecstatic with the ball distribution, but all with his employment near the goal line, whenever Can Newton is not pilfering those coveted chances. A challenging matchup against Atlanta’s third ranked run defenders causes the tempered endorsement.

BenJarvus Green-Ellis
BJGE had averaged 13.5 APG during November, and had the benefit of an appealing matchup against Indianapolis in week 13. But against a Colt rush defense that had allowed 150.6 YPG and 15 TDs, Green-Ellis was allotted just six carries, which were the fewest since week 8. It served as yet another reminder (as if we needed it), that the Patriots’ offensive strategy is concocted by Bill Belichick, and could change at any time. Green-Ellis did score his eighth TD of the season, which is the primary enticement toward starting him. But there is too much at stake for you to thrust him into your lineup, since it is too difficult to forecast how significantly New England’s game plan will change each week.

Maurice Morris
His value is very dependent upon Kevin Smith’s ankle, but if he ascends into another starting role, he would obtain enough touches to potentially help you. He will encounter difficulty attempting to navigate through the Vikings’ 12^th ranked rush defense.  He has the potential to be an effective target for Matthew Stafford, since he has averaged seven receptions and 64 yards in his last two games. However, he should only be utilized if you are truly desperate, and only if Smith is ultimately unavailable. .

DO NOT START

Cedric Benson
CedBen was engulfed once again by the seventh ranked Pittsburgh rush defense (55 YPG in two games), and the outcome won’t be any more favorable against the even stingier Houston run stoppers (90.7 YPG). Benson has proven that he is eminently benchable against all but the league’s worst run defenders. The good news for fantasy owners, is that after you sit him this Sunday, he will benefit from the best possible matchup in week 15, against a St. Louis unit that is the NFL’s worst at containing rushers (157.8 YPG).

DeAngelo Williams
Well, that success was short lived wasn’t it? After averaging 71 YPG in weeks 11-12, Williams’ paltry output against the normally hospitable Bucs’ run defense (29 yards on 11 attempts) was a cruel reminder of the disappointment that has been prevalent throughout the season. It also dealt a critical blow to fantasy owners who were enticed by recent success to start him. Do not repeat that mistake. If his limited workload, and the fact that both Cam Newton and Jonathan Stewart will usurp the goal line carries do not provide sufficient reasons to avoid him, then his matchup with a sturdy Atlanta unit that only permits 90 YPG must be.

Peyton Hillis
He did not aggravate his troublesome hamstring injury in week 13, but long suffering owners were provided with yet another disturbing development, when he strained his hip. Anyone who has stuck with Hillis throughout the regular season, should be commended for immense fortitude. And he is still worth keeping, because he captures a sizable percentage of the workload when he is in Cleveland’s lineup. But if he does line up against the sturdy Steeler rush defense, expecting him to supply you with anything beyond modest numbers, is far too hazardous for your postseason aspirations. Especially in a short week.

Ryan Grant
He is listed here for those of you who already have him, and are planning to employ him against the Raiders’ 28^th ranked rush defense. Yes, that is an enticing matchup, and he certainly will garner touches with James Starks battling an ankle issue. But when that scenario occurred in week 13, Grant could only manufacture 29 yards despite being allotted 13 carries (2.2 YPC). He has failed to run for even 30 yards since week 3, and has not scored all year. Plus, Brandon Saine captured 10 touches against the Giants, and will continue to pilfer some of Grant’s opportunities. There are simply better options for you at this critical point of the season.

Ben Tate
It might be tempting to utilize him as a flex, since he is actually the league’s 18th leading rusher, and is averaging 5.5 YPC with his 138 attempts. But while he has been extremely effective when entrusted with the ball, that just does not occur with enough frequency. Game flow determines how much he is utilized, making it too risky to use him. The advent of the T.J. Yates era does not guarantee an increased workload, making it just as likely that Tate will receive five carries, as it is that he will exceed double digits. There is too much danger in using him against Cincinnati’s sixth ranked rush defense.

Fantasy Football:

Playoffs? Don’t talk about…playoffs! Are you kiddin me? Here’s my love em/hate em list heading into the fantasy, (insert your best Jim Mora voice here) “PLAYOFFS!”

In a seriously turbulent and unpredictable season to date, we’ve seen the “dream team” Eagles plunge their way into what has turned out to be a nightmare. Perhaps they meant bad dream. We’ve seen the Chargers, who were picked by many to be Super Bowl contenders, contend for the crown of mediocrity in the midst of a 6 game losing streak. We’ve seen the upstart Bengals riding their rookies to legitimacy; a reality that few had predicted. The Manning-less Colts have become the meaning-less Colts. No disrespect Indy fans, we just call em like we see em. And don’t worry, there’s this guy out there named Andrew Luck that you’ll probably draft. Perhaps you’ve heard of him? He’s pretty good. Just saying. Then there’s the Broncos riding the Tebow train. How it keeps rolling is a somewhat of a mystery, but the fact remains, that train is definitely a-rollin. All aboard!

The injured reserve and PUP lists have been filling up, coaches and cheerleaders have been trampled, referees have been pushed around, defenseless players have been stomped on, normal tackling is now apparently roughing the passer….you get the idea. Yes my friends it’s been a crazy year for football.

Nevertheless, this is the game we flock to like Cujo on a Ford Pinto. This is the game we love. Hell, this is the game we NEED! Without football, what else would our excuse be to sit around in our sweatpants all Sunday, eat nachos and scream at our T.V’s? Ok, maybe sometimes Thursday and Monday too, but you get the point.

With all that said, let’s get down to business. The playoffs are here! Here’s who we think you should love and hate going into your week 14 matchups.

QB Love:

Without explanation, Aaron Rodgers, Drew Brees, Tom Brady and Cam Newton should be starters for your team….period. End of story. Start them.

Matthew Stafford – not only does he have nearly twice as many TD passes as he does interceptions, but he’s got over 3500 yards passing, a 91.3 QB rating and he’s going up against a Minnesota pass defense that gives up more points to opposing QB’s than any other team in the league. Not to mention, he throws to Calvin “Megatron” Johnson. Enough said. Start him!

Tony Romo – the Cowboys are fighting for their playoff lives, and they just lost a game they should have won against Arizona. Going into this week’s game against the Giants, look for them to regroup and bounce back with a little attitude. The Giants defense ranks lower against the pass than Arizona’s, so expect a big game from Romo.

Joe Flacco – playing against the Indianapolis pass defense is every quarterback’s dream this year. Well that’s just what Mr. Flacco has the luxury of this week. The Colts have been bad at pretty much everything all year, but against the pass they’re particularly bad. Flacco may have been just a decent QB2 for you this year, but unless you’ve got one of the obvious QB studs, I’d seriously consider starting him this week. The Colts are lousy.

Phillip Rivers – yeah I know, he’s been seriously disappointing this year, but let’s not forget the career he’s had before all that. He’s still a top ranked QB. Not to mention the Chargers (despite a horrible losing streak) are still in the thick of a competitive AFC West race. Rivers knows how to win, and he’s got Vincent Jackson and Antonio Gates to throw to. He’s up against a Bills defense that ranks just 21st against the pass, AND the bolts are at home. I like Rivers this week.

Sleeper Picks:

Michael Vick- he is (reluctantly) on the good side of this list….kind of. “If” he plays, he’s coming back from a 3 game absence to face a not so great Miami pass defense, and in warmer weather to boot. And although both of these teams are playing for purely pride at this point, no motivation to play hard is lost just because their playoff chances are gone. If anything they are playing to showcase their professionalism and that next year will be different. And let’s not underestimate how far pride can take a player. Vick is without a doubt a proud competitor and is sure to have a big week in the not so distant future. This week could very well be that week. However, keep in mind the risks involved in starting him. His mobility is always a threat to his health. This is the opening playoff game, so you may want to think long and hard before putting Vick in as your starter. If you’re deep at the position, by all means sit him, but if he puts up big numbers and he’s on your bench, or if you start him and he lays an egg, don’t say we didn’t warn you. That’s why he’s a sleeper.

Alex Smith – the guy has been a nice surprise for his owners this year. He’s put up numbers that won’t bring the house down by any stretch, but he’s been reliable. Reliability can sometimes be difficult to find at the QB position, so any consistent play is good play. He put up his first 20 fantasy point performance last week, and this week faces a Cardinals pass defense that lies in the middle of the pack against opposing QB’s. They’ve had a few games where they haven’t given up much for TD passes, but simply aren’t good enough to keep that going for the remainder of the season. I look for Alex to toss a few TD’s and put up a decent fantasy score this week.

QB Hate:

Ben Roethlisberger – Cleveland may not be very good in many areas, but against the pass, they’re the Fort Knox of professional football: quarterbacks simply aren’t allowed access to their secondary. An opposing QB hasn’t thrown multiple touchdown’s in a game against these guys since week 4, and not once has an opposing QB had a 20 point fantasy game against them. Look for the trend to continue this week.
The Browns don’t like the Steelers. Not that it’s any different the other way around, but if the Browns can’t make it into the playoffs, at least they can take a shot at keeping their hated division rival Steelers out of it. Sit Big Ben unless you’re deep at QB.

Colt McCoy – much like the Browns pass ‘D’, the Steelers pass ‘D’ isn’t so bad either. Actually they’re pretty dang good. They’re ranked in the top 5 in the league in defending the pass, and with them locked in a dead heat with Baltimore for tops in the division, they will be out for blood this week. Look for McCoy to struggle against a stout ‘Steel Curtain’.

Dan Orlovsky – sure he had a nice game tossing the ball against the Patriots, but the Ravens pass defense is strong in all areas that the Patriots lack in that department. This isn’t going to be Orlovsky’s week if all goes according to plan. Sit him unless you have no other options.

Mark Sanchez – he’s too up and down to really ever feel good about starting him, and this week against a Chiefs pass defense that has been one of the few bright spots in their 2011 campaign, I’d look for the inconsistency to carry on. Sanchez remains dirty in week 14. Sit him unless you want to pull all your hair out.

RB Love:

Ray Rice – he’s playing at a superstar level, and he’s rushing against the Colts awful run ‘D’ this week. Start him!

Marshawn Lynch – a lot of talk surrounds Lynch and whether or not he’s the real deal. His numbers for the past five weeks say that he absolutely is, and going against the Rams run defense is promising. I’d look for his productivity to continue in a big way, especially with the Seahawks still mathematically eligible for post-season play. Beast mode should be in full effect this week. They’re playing in Seattle on Monday night. Watch out for earthquakes.

Michael Turner – the Panthers give up so many fantasy points to opposing running backs, it’s sad. Unless of course you’re Michael Turner, in which case it’s enticing. Five times this year Carolina has given up over 30 points to opposing RB’s. If you don’t start Turner this week, it had better be because you’ve got Barry Sanders in your lineup. Otherwise, I just don’t get it.

Shonn Greene – he’s coming off of a 3 TD performance last week, and with the Chiefs run defense being not so stellar, I’d look for him to keep it up. Also, let’s keep in mind that with Kansas City’s pass defense being pretty good and Mark Sanchez being unreliable at best, look for Greene to carry the load offensively for the J-E-T-S, Jets, Jets, Jets.

Sleepers:

Darren Sproles – it’s not necessarily a bad idea to start a guy as talented as Mr. Sproles, but the problem lies in the fact that New Orleans can’t figure out which one of their three running backs they want to carry the load for them from week to week. Sproles could be a good choice though, he runs like Forrest Gump and seems to be the most dynamic of the three capable tailbacks. Not to mention Tennessee’s run defense is arguably not all that great.

C.J. Spiller – with Fred Jackson on injured reserve, Spiller has become the man on the ground in Buffalo. He had a good outing last week and is going up against a San Diego team that doesn’t seem to know who they are these days. He could have a nice game for your team this week.

RB Hate:

Beanie Wells – the 49ers haven’t given up a rushing touchdown all year. This does not bode well for Beanie, or any other Cardinal thinking about changing that statistic. Unless you have no other choice, I’d sit him and feel great about doing so.

Steven Jackson – he’s had a somewhat unpredictable season on the ground, and is set to face a stout Seahawks run defense that doesn’t like to give opposing running backs very much room to work with. I’d sit him unless I had good reason not to.

Willis McGahee – with Tim Tebow bringing…..well I’m not sure what he’s bringing, but he’s bringing something to the table that keeps Denver headed in the right direction, I simply don’t trust the Broncos running game these days. Especially not against a Bears run defense that comes to play week in and week out.

Cedric Benson – I don’t like any running back playing against Houston, bottom line. Unless you’re empty at the RB position, don’t start him.

WR Love:

I know it almost goes without saying, regardless of his opposition, but START CALVIN JOHNSON THIS WEEK! He’s going against a Viking pass defense that isn’t good, and he’s arguably the best wide-out in the game. Start him for Pete’s sake.

Percy Harvin – he’s on a roll in a major way, while the rest of his team simply is not. He’s the bright spot in this offense, especially with AP injured. He can run kicks, catch passes, play at the tailback position….whatever is asked of him, he can do it and do it well. Most definitely start him.

Dez Bryant – he’s always a threat to score. He’s an even bigger threat when you’re facing a Giants pass defense that notoriously gives up big numbers to opposing receivers. You can feel good about starting him this week.

Brandon Marshall – now is the time to start Miami’s best receiver against the Eagles lowly pass defense that has underachieved all year. The Eagles are banged up and reeling at this point. Marshall should have a nice fantasy game.

Sleepers:

A.J. Green – he’s up against the Texans defense, which right off the top isn’t overly promising for solid fantasy numbers, but he’s a playmaker. If any Bengal is going to find the end zone this week, I’d expect it to be Green. Start him if you’re low on WR’s.

Santana Moss – he appears to be fully healed from his injury, and is facing the horrible New England pass defense. Look for him to turn a few heads this week, especially with another receiving option (Fred Davis) suspended for the remainder of the season.

WR Hate:

Mike Wallace/Antonio Brown – it’s not very often that one would place these guys on such a list, but this is likely the week for it if there ever were such a week. Cleveland has only given up 4 touchdowns through the air this season. Their pass ‘D’ is ferocious. I would only start Wallace or Brown this week unless my roster was flat out empty in the receiver position. No, it won’t be a total shocker if one of them had a good game; they’re good receivers, especially Wallace. But this is strictly a matchup based prediction. You be the judge, but tread carefully on this one, you could get burned.

Dwayne Bowe – this season has been miserable for his fantasy statistics, and will likely continue against the Jets and their solid pass defense. Not to mention the QB debacle going on in K.C. these days. Sit him unless you have no other options.

Brandon Lloyd – he plays for the Rams, who in the opinion of many, cannot be trusted to put up consistent fantasy numbers at any position, especially going into the playoffs. Seattle has stepped it up on their pass defense as well. Sit him this week.

TE Love:

Brandon Pettigrew – Playing the Vikings this week is a favorable matchup for Pettigrew, and he’s got Stafford throwing to him to top it off. He should find himself open quite a bit with Megatron drawing plenty of attention.

Dustin Keller – the Chiefs pass ‘D’ isn’t very good. Sanchez has had his occasional issues with throwing the ball deep, so look for Keller to be a viable option throughout this game. This is a great time to start him.

Jake Ballard – he’s obviously not the top option for Eli, as Cruz and Nicks are the go to guys, but he’s a good option nonetheless. He could produce against Dallas.

Sleepers:

Marcedes Lewis – he’s been less than exciting all year, and has yet to reel in a TD, but this could be the week he breaks out of his shell. Especially against a Tampa Bay pass defense that could very easily be the team to allow it.

Kellen Winslow – he’s going up against the Jags pass ‘D’ and he’s due. That’s all I can say. Don’t be surprised to see him catch a TD or two. This is Winslow’s week to bust out. Maybe.

TE Hate:

Jermaine Gresham – playing against Houston is bad for any offensive player not named Aaron Rodgers.

Visanthe Shiancoe – he has two touchdowns all year and he’s going up against a good Lions pass ‘D’. Unless you are strapped for options, you may consider sitting him this time out.

D/ST Love:

Ravens, 49ers, Jets, Texans, Seahawks

D/ST Hate:

Titans, Raiders, Saints, Redskins, Vikings

And that my fantasy football friends, is a wrap. This has been another exciting week of “watch the gridironexperts.com guys do their expert thing.” We hope to have been helpful, and may our advice be chocked full of expertise to guide you to victory in your fantasy playoffs. Best of luck from here on out.

Enjoy your nachos and sweatpants.

Photo: SI.com

Fantasy Football:

Unlucky week 13? It was for Vince Young and the Eagles Thursday night. Seattle ran the ball effectively with Marshawn Lynch, who showed flashes of his huge playoff upset performance against the Saints last year.

Fantasy Football this week will be an unlucky weekend for owners that have teams on the cusp of making the playoffs. Not everyone can make the post season, so hopefully this article can be of some help to you and your fantasy team. Gridiron Experts has a weekly feature called Start’em Sit’em Gauntlet where 10 fantasy gurus compete for the best Start’em line-up; their Sit’em recommendations are subtracted from their points to create one overall weekly score. Check out who’s got the hot hand for Week 13 here

“The Don’t Over Think’em Starters”

QB-Ben Roethlisberger
The Steelers are facing one of the leagues toughest defenses, but are at home in a battle for the division and a playoff spot. This will not be a game that has a conservative game-plan.

RB- Ryan Mathews
The Jaguars have an excellent rushing defense, but do have a major shake up on their coaching staff. Mathews matches up well against the Jaguars, his speed should be able to burn Jacksonville’s linebackers if he can get out and turn the corner.

WR- Andre Johnson
The Texans can’t shy away from their passing game. T.J. Yates had a few decent throws to end out the first half against the Jaguars, but was given a reserved role in the second half. If the Texans want to make the Playoffs, they need to get Andre the ball.

“The Great Match-Up Favorites”

QB-Eli Manning
The Packers are on a winning streak that some are comparing to the Patriots dynasty days. Although, for all of the high-powered offense, Green Bay does give up points in large chunks. Great Match-up!

RB- Benjarvus Green EllisThe law firm is not a fantasy option that strikes fear into opponents, but this week he could be your savior. The 21 point favorite New England Patriots will run the ball heavy once things get ugly.

WR- Eric Decker
The Broncos don’t run a pro-style NFL offense, but if there was ever a time to take some shots it would be against the Vikings. Minnesota has one of the worst passing defenses in the league and have only 6 INT’s all year.

“The Tempting Sleepers”

QB-Matt Moore
The Dolphins have really turned their team around. Matt Moore has been a decent fantasy option the last few weeks, and has a gem of a match-up against the Raiders sub-par defense off an extended break from Thanksgiving.

RB- DeAngelo WilliamsThe workload has been swaying more toward Williams’ way as of late. This weeks match-up is against one of the leagues worst rushing defenses.

WR- Nate WashingtonOne of the leagues more streaky fantasy receivers has a great match-up against a ruined Bills secondary.

“The Potential Heartbreakers”

QB-Mark Sanchez
Last week Sanchez played great, but odds are we may see more of the struggling Sanchez on the road against the Redskins this week. Washington has only allowed 13 passing TD’s and rank in the top 10 in passing defense. 

RB- Michael Turner
The Burner is banged up and about to face off against one of the leagues most lethal defensive units. The Texans LB core is quick and hard hitting. Michael Turner does not have a great match-up.

WR- Brandon LloydA three game touchdown streak is the type of fantasy stat everyone wants on their team. Unfortunately, the Rams injuries and an ugly match-up just about lock this player on your fantasy bench for week 13.

Check out all of Gridiron Experts Start’em Sit’em Picks for Week 13 here

Fantasy Football:

You are either locked up and rolling through week 13′s fantasy match-up without a second thought, or you have made a dozen changes to your fantasy team in the last 24 hours. Being on the fence to the fantasy post-season is a stressful time, hopefully our player rankings can help you with your line-up decisions. You should also check out our weekly Start’em Sit’em Gauntlet article

A few tips for this upcoming week.

• Don’t start a player purely based on a match-up, tough defense’s do give up points too.
• Check weather reports, but not for benching QB’s.. for starting them. Tom Brady admitted to loving icey games as the Defense’s can’t get the same jump off the snap. If one of the leagues best QB’s likes the cold, odds are they all do.
• Need a sleeper Tight End ? look for injuries and holes in a defense’s Linebacker and Safety spots.

NFL Fantasy Player Rankings Week 13

Fantasy Football:

Well, the gravy found the dinner plate, but it was sure dry in Fantasy Football on Thursday. With the exception of a couple receivers in the Miami/Dallas game the day was one to forget. That’s probably a good thing though, it gave us all more time for family and friends which is really the most important point of this weekend.

So now that you have had your turkey and fought off a crazy lady at Target or Best Buy for some junk you really don’t need, it’s time to relax, put your feet up, and try to salvage your fantasy week. I would love to hand out a few more of my fantasy gems like James Jones in this fantasy player rankings article, but from what I’ve been told, my sleepers are too “high risk” to actually add to a line-up?

Quarterbacks

Running backs

Wide Receivers

Tight Ends

Sleeper
Injury

Fantasy Football:

Once again the crew at Gridiron Experts is breaking out the Fantasy Start’em Sit’em Gauntlet for you to see who we rank as our best tier 2 recommendations. I do the run down of how are Start’em Sit’em Gauntlet works every week, so if you’re new to our site, you’ll have to read the rules after the jump.

Instead I thought I talk about some of the recent streaks some of the writers are on including who is the top top in the last 3 weeks. The Start’em Sit’em Gauntlet is a new feature, so there was some getting use to the layout for the writers, but as of late, some of our Fantasy Football gurus are starting to find their rhythm.

Fantasy Start’em Sit’em Standings

Michael Light and Phil Clark have been two of our better second half Fantasy Experts in the the Fantasy Football Gauntlet. Check out this week recommendations for week 7 in our popular weekly article: Start’em Sit’em Gauntlet

Another Interesting sat, and one that is really the most important in our Start’em Sit’em Game, is the ability to recommend fantasy Sits that have bad weeks. We are definitely held accountable each week as the recommended fantasy Sit’s are subtracted from our weekly score. Interestingly enough, Michael Light and Ahmed Helmy have the best fantasy Sit’em record over the last 3 weeks.

Click Here to See Week 7′s  Start’em Sit’em Gauntlet

Fantasy Football:

The following teams are on a Bye Week 7: 49ers, Bills, Bengals, Patriots, Giants, Eagles

Don’t forget to check out Gridiron Experts weekly articles: Start’em Sit’em Gauntlet and for those looking for waiver wire help you may find our Waiver Wire Challenge article of some help to you.

Week 7 Fantasy Player Rankings:

Quarterbacks

Running Backs

Wide Receivers

Tight Ends

Sleeper
Injury

Fantasy Football: