Week 9 is in the books and there wasn’t as much turmoil as there usually is in a given week. Six teams - the Falcons, Bills, Bears, Lions, Packers and Titans will return refreshed after taking their week of rest. This will be another hard week that sees many owners wishing they built their lineup around having one specific week off, but don’t worry, that’s what I’m here for. Hopefully plenty of owners are still in the hunt. I wrote an article last week to help identify players who have favorable schedules, please feel free to check it out.
Teams on their bye this week are the Texans, Colts, Vikings, Patriots, Chargers and Redskins. There is plenty of talent there to build a lineup so there may be some owners stuck with rolling out the skeleton crew. Ownership percentages are for ESPN and Yahoo leagues respectively.
Quarterbacks
“Hot Hands”
Ryan Tannehill, Dolphins (40.4%/57%): Tannehill has turned into an absolute stud since his bye week. His most recent performance totalled 288 yards on 24 completions, three touchdowns and no picks. Over the last four games, he’s thrown for less than 200 yards once and has a 8:3 touchdown to interception ratio. He’s also rushing more and more effectively. He has totals of 49, 48, 48, and 47 yards over his past four games respectively. He is quietly entering into the QB1 conversation and is owned in less than half of ESPN leagues.
Mark Sanchez, Eagles (0.4%/5%): Nick Foles is out at least six weeks with a broken collarbone. That puts him out of your lineup until about Week 15 or Week 16. Sanchez threw for 202 yards with two touchdowns and two interceptions in relief of Foles Sunday. Despite his shortcomings as the Jets’ starter for years, he could be a decent quarterback replacing Foles for the rest of the season. The Chip Kelly system is the main reason for that speculation and defenses will always have to stay honest against LeSean McCoy. Sanchez could be a rollercoaster but I think he’ll have more good games than bad.
Mike Glennon, Buccaneers (3.6%/7%): There has been speculation that he may be benched in favor of a healthy Josh McCown. But at this point, for the one-win Bucs, they should stick with the young gun. With the playoffs out of reach, why turn to a 35 year-old quarterback instead of giving 24 year-old Glennon as much experience as possible in hopes of developing him? He sees a relatively easy road the next few games in the Falcons and Redskins who should buoy his numbers and keep him in the QB2 conversation for anybody in 2-QB leagues.
Alex Smith, Chiefs (35.9%/46%): Although he gets the Bills defense who have 18 interceptions this week, he is known as a game manager and that is just what he is. He’s only thrown four interceptions all year, albeit three came in Week 1 so we can’t say he hasn’t thrown multiple picks in a game. I don’t think he throws more than one this week if he throws any and he’ll be a solid option for those with quarterbacks on bye.
“Dynasty”
Zach Mettenberger, Titans (1.2%/2%): He threw for almost 300 yards, two touchdowns and one pick in his debut start two weeks ago. The Titans didn’t play this weekend as its their bye week and that can only mean good things for the chemistry of this offense. If he’s given the keys to the team the rest of the season, he could put in some good games but not without some growing pains. Right now, he’s a rookie to watch but not depended on with a tough schedule upcoming.
Bye Week Fliers: Brian Hoyer, Browns. Kyle Orton, Bills.
Running Backs
“Hot Hands”
Adrian Peterson, Vikings: Even with so much up in the air regarding his suspension, Peterson did accept a deal on his court case and pleaded no contest (which is slightly different than just "guilty" or "not guilty").That being said, the NFL will have to make a decision to reinstate him after serving the 8 game suspension. He may be eligible to play as early as Week 11 (Vikings on a bye in Week 10). We say "MAY be able to play" because the NFL has yet to determine if they are going to continue his suspension. It's worth taking a chance on and picking him up this week.
Tre Mason, Rams (49%/37%): Who to own in the Rams backfield - Mason or Cunningham? The answer is definitely not Zac Stacy anymore. Mason is the first running back to own after getting another start and racking up 19 carries, especially if you are not in a PPR league. Cunningham will continue to take snaps away from Mason because Mason doesn’t play a role in the passing game. It is rare to find a player who will have workhorse-like carries this late in the year so he should be owned just based on the opportunity.
Benny Cunningham, Rams (8.3%/17%): Cunningham is still the Rams’ primary receiving back as he caught three balls on three targets for 38 yards. Those 38 yards were good enough for him to be the leading receiver for the Rams this week as well. That is not good, but it shows that Cunningham is a part in the game plan. Since Cunningham is clearly behind Mason in carries, you would have to be in a PPR league for Cunningham to be relevant. He’s worth being stashed for matchups where his receiving abilities will be highlighted.
Matt Asiata, Vikings (26.8%/31%): He’s on a bye this week but he has to be mentioned based on his 3-touchdown performance on Sunday afternoon. He’s still the goal-line back for the Vikings and if you’re desperate he’s worth possible flex starts against the porous Bears and Packers in the couple weeks after his bye week. Those matchups give Asiata a good chance of scoring.
Theo Riddick, Lions (2.1%/5%): Regardless of Reggie Bush’s injury status, the Lions have said they will keep Riddick involved. That is not good news for Bush owners so don’t forget about Riddick after his bye in Week 9. He’s someone to wait and see how many touches he gets and what he does with them. If for some reason Bush can’t play or is limited against the Dolphins, Riddick gets a bump to a low-level flex play.
“Dynasty”
Terrance West, Browns (31%/23%): He out-touched Ben Tate, 16-14 on Sunday and even though Tate was trusted to run out the clock, West was the better running back. This backfield has changed hands frequently this season so it’s a situation to monitor. I picked West as the inevitable starter coming into the season because he had the most upside. Tate isn’t banged up at the moment so he will continue to at least split carries with West limiting both players fantasy value but I still think West is the one to own in the future if you can stash him.
Jonas Gray, Patriots (17.6%/18%): He wasn’t exactly the Patriots runner between the tackles against the Broncos Sunday that everyone thought coming off a 17 carry game two weeks ago. Still, he is the Patriots “big back” and his stats will depend on the game plan. Rookie James White has been a healthy scratch and both Brandon Bolden’s and Shane Vereen’s contracts are up at the end of the year so the rest of the way could be a bit of an audition for Gray. He’s worth stashing in dynasty or keeper leagues because of his potential for next year and could even have some good games peppered over the rest of the year.
Bye Week Fliers: Toby Gerhart, Jaguars. Charles Sims, Buccaneers. Jonathan Stewart, Panthers.
Wide Receivers
“Hot Hands”
Mike Evans, Buccaneers (31.8%/61%): He is most likely already owned in your Yahoo league, but if you’re in ESPN leagues, he may not be. He doesn’t have a very consistent or accurate quarterback which will hold him back but he has the physical ability to compensate more than some other receivers. He has easy matchups against the Falcons and Redskins to help push you towards the playoffs. He should also be a great pick for keeper or dynasty leagues to see if the Bucs can right the ship at quarterback.
Martavis Bryant, Steelers (22.1%/43%): He now has five touchdowns since his debut just three weeks ago. He is for real and is clearly an important player in balancing out defenses who choose to shift coverage to Antonio Brown. He is a WR3/flex option as Ben Roethlisberger isn’t going to throw six touchdowns per game consistently. He is usually looked to after Antonio Brown and Le’Veon Bell to score so he holds the upper hand over Markus Wheaton.
Harry Douglas, Falcons (1.9%/3%): This week, the Falcons have a matchup against the defense allowing the most fantasy points to wide receivers this season - the Bucs. The Falcons had a much needed bye week last week and should come out firing on all cylinders against a team they decimated in Week 3. Douglas had caught 2-of-2 for 14 yards and a touchdown before he left that game with an injury. He has a high chance of scoring again against the Bucs defense so I see him as a WR3/flex this week.
Kenny Britt, Rams (8.6%/9%): While Benny Cunningham was the Rams leading “receiver”, Britt was not far behind. He caught the lone touchdown pass of the day from Austin Davis but totaled only 32 yards on two catches. It was a forgetful performance buoyed by the touchdown but besides Jared Cook, Britt seems to be the next go-to man for Davis. He is not going to be very relevant unless he gets into the endzone but is mentioned because the Rams don’t have much to throw to after Brian Quick was lost for the season. He’s only worth consideration in deeper leagues or if you are desperately thin at receiver.
“Dynasty”
Jarvis Landry, Dolphins (7.8%/8%): He continues to catch almost everything that is thrown his way and is now clearly ahead of Brian Hartline in the pecking order. Ryan Tannehill is turning into a star before our eyes and Landry is going for the ride. He’ll continue to be the second passing option behind Mike Wallace. With matchups that will require Tannehill to throw against because of their run defenses, Landry should continue to see five to seven targets per game as he grows with Tannehill. He’s worth stashing now while he is budding.
Bye Week Fliers: Jerricho Cotchery, Panthers. Cecil Shorts III, Jaguars. Markus Wheaton, Steelers. Jordan Matthews, Eagles
Tight Ends
“Hot Hands”
Mychal Rivera, Raiders (2.2%/2%): For the second week in a row, Rivera put up big numbers. He followed his seven catch, 83 yard performance with an eight catch, 38 yard and a touchdown encore. Next week, the Raiders play the Broncos and while that doesn’t bode well for Derek Carr, his receivers don’t get negative points for the interceptions he’ll throw. The Raiders will be playing from behind in this one so Rivera could at least get some garbage time points.
Charles Clay, Dolphins (20.2%/44%): This weekend, we had another Charles Clay sighting. He’s been underwhelming and a dud most of the year. He can’t be dubbed consistent yet but he has shown flashes of his 2013 self over the past few games. He has caught 13 balls for 158 yards and two touchdowns in four games since the Dolphins bye in Week 5. If he can continue his upward swing, he could finish the year strong and be a great late year addition for many fantasy owners.
Owen Daniels, Ravens (28.3%/30%): After a minor knee surgery a few weeks ago, Daniels appears to have not missed a beat. He caught six balls for 53 yards while fellow tight end, Crockett Gillmore was the one who scored a touchdown. Daniels was targeted a team-high nine times Sunday night as he was clearly part of the plan. He’s a low-end TE1 in PPR leagues and much of his value is dependent on touchdowns. He’s not a bad fill-in though for anyone who has a tight end on bye this week.
Coby Fleener, Colts (18.7%/30%): He’s heading into his bye week but he put on quite the performance Monday night. He finished with four catches for 70 yards and a touchdown on 11 targets. Fellow tight end Dwayne Allen also caught four balls and a touchdown so this is clearly a job split in two. Although Fleener doesn’t score all that often compared to Allen, he still has the same potential upside. It just depends on who is featured that game. There are worse options if you are streaming tight ends after this week.
“Dynasty”
Tim Wright, Patriots (11%/23%): He put up a complete donut on Sunday against the Broncos. He wasn’t even targeted in the game but that is what comes with being in the Patriots offense. You never know who is going to be involved the most behind Gronk each week but Tim Wright certainly has the tools. He hasn’t had any major yards in any game, topping out at 85 in Week 5, but he’s caught three touchdowns which has helped his fantasy numbers. Hopefully with the Patriots on a bye this week, they can figure out a way to get Wright more involved consistently. Until then, he’s a boom/bust tight end.
Bye Week Fliers: Heath Miller, Steelers. Scott Chandler, Bills. Clay Harbor, Jaguars.
Defenses/ST
Detroit D/ST: Since they were on a bye last week, someone may have dropped them. Make sure to pick them up as they are a top-5 defense.
Steelers D/ST: They are playing the turnover happy Jets who are still unsure of their starting quarterback this week so there’s much to like in this matchup.
Packers D/ST: The Bears are imploding but this one may come back to bite me as they return from their bye.
Ravens D/ST: This unit has created a turnover in every game but two this year. They see the Titans this week who give up the 23rd most fantasy points to opposing defenses.
Kickers
Mason Crosby, Packers: 11/12 FG, 25/25 XP
Graham Gano, Panthers: 17/19 FG, 16/16 XP
Chandler Catanzaro, Cardinals: 16/16 FG, 18/18 XP
Shaun Suisham, Steelers: 14/15 FG, 25/25 XP
Shayne Graham, Saints: 13/14 FG, 24/25 XP
Week 9 is in the books and there wasn’t as much turmoil as there usually is in a given week. Six teams - the Falcons, Bills, Bears, Lions, Packers and Titans will return refreshed after taking their week of rest. This will be another hard week that sees many owners wishing they built their lineup around having one specific week off, but don’t worry, that’s what I’m here for. Hopefully plenty of owners are still in the hunt. I wrote an article last week to help identify players who have favorable schedules, please feel free to check it out.
Teams on their bye this week are the Texans, Colts, Vikings, Patriots, Chargers and Redskins. There is plenty of talent there to build a lineup so there may be some owners stuck with rolling out the skeleton crew. Ownership percentages are for ESPN and Yahoo leagues respectively.
Quarterbacks
“Hot Hands”
Ryan Tannehill, Dolphins (40.4%/57%): Tannehill has turned into an absolute stud since his bye week. His most recent performance totalled 288 yards on 24 completions, three touchdowns and no picks. Over the last four games, he’s thrown for less than 200 yards once and has a 8:3 touchdown to interception ratio. He’s also rushing more and more effectively. He has totals of 49, 48, 48, and 47 yards over his past four games respectively. He is quietly entering into the QB1 conversation and is owned in less than half of ESPN leagues.
Mark Sanchez, Eagles (0.4%/5%): Nick Foles is out at least six weeks with a broken collarbone. That puts him out of your lineup until about Week 15 or Week 16. Sanchez threw for 202 yards with two touchdowns and two interceptions in relief of Foles Sunday. Despite his shortcomings as the Jets’ starter for years, he could be a decent quarterback replacing Foles for the rest of the season. The Chip Kelly system is the main reason for that speculation and defenses will always have to stay honest against LeSean McCoy. Sanchez could be a rollercoaster but I think he’ll have more good games than bad.
Mike Glennon, Buccaneers (3.6%/7%): There has been speculation that he may be benched in favor of a healthy Josh McCown. But at this point, for the one-win Bucs, they should stick with the young gun. With the playoffs out of reach, why turn to a 35 year-old quarterback instead of giving 24 year-old Glennon as much experience as possible in hopes of developing him? He sees a relatively easy road the next few games in the Falcons and Redskins who should buoy his numbers and keep him in the QB2 conversation for anybody in 2-QB leagues.
Alex Smith, Chiefs (35.9%/46%): Although he gets the Bills defense who have 18 interceptions this week, he is known as a game manager and that is just what he is. He’s only thrown four interceptions all year, albeit three came in Week 1 so we can’t say he hasn’t thrown multiple picks in a game. I don’t think he throws more than one this week if he throws any and he’ll be a solid option for those with quarterbacks on bye.
“Dynasty”
Zach Mettenberger, Titans (1.2%/2%): He threw for almost 300 yards, two touchdowns and one pick in his debut start two weeks ago. The Titans didn’t play this weekend as its their bye week and that can only mean good things for the chemistry of this offense. If he’s given the keys to the team the rest of the season, he could put in some good games but not without some growing pains. Right now, he’s a rookie to watch but not depended on with a tough schedule upcoming.
Bye Week Fliers: Brian Hoyer, Browns. Kyle Orton, Bills.
Running Backs
“Hot Hands”
Adrian Peterson, Vikings: Even with so much up in the air regarding his suspension, Peterson did accept a deal on his court case and pleaded no contest (which is slightly different than just "guilty" or "not guilty").That being said, the NFL will have to make a decision to reinstate him after serving the 8 game suspension. He may be eligible to play as early as Week 11 (Vikings on a bye in Week 10). We say "MAY be able to play" because the NFL has yet to determine if they are going to continue his suspension. It's worth taking a chance on and picking him up this week.
Tre Mason, Rams (49%/37%): Who to own in the Rams backfield - Mason or Cunningham? The answer is definitely not Zac Stacy anymore. Mason is the first running back to own after getting another start and racking up 19 carries, especially if you are not in a PPR league. Cunningham will continue to take snaps away from Mason because Mason doesn’t play a role in the passing game. It is rare to find a player who will have workhorse-like carries this late in the year so he should be owned just based on the opportunity.
Benny Cunningham, Rams (8.3%/17%): Cunningham is still the Rams’ primary receiving back as he caught three balls on three targets for 38 yards. Those 38 yards were good enough for him to be the leading receiver for the Rams this week as well. That is not good, but it shows that Cunningham is a part in the game plan. Since Cunningham is clearly behind Mason in carries, you would have to be in a PPR league for Cunningham to be relevant. He’s worth being stashed for matchups where his receiving abilities will be highlighted.
Matt Asiata, Vikings (26.8%/31%): He’s on a bye this week but he has to be mentioned based on his 3-touchdown performance on Sunday afternoon. He’s still the goal-line back for the Vikings and if you’re desperate he’s worth possible flex starts against the porous Bears and Packers in the couple weeks after his bye week. Those matchups give Asiata a good chance of scoring.
Theo Riddick, Lions (2.1%/5%): Regardless of Reggie Bush’s injury status, the Lions have said they will keep Riddick involved. That is not good news for Bush owners so don’t forget about Riddick after his bye in Week 9. He’s someone to wait and see how many touches he gets and what he does with them. If for some reason Bush can’t play or is limited against the Dolphins, Riddick gets a bump to a low-level flex play.
“Dynasty”
Terrance West, Browns (31%/23%): He out-touched Ben Tate, 16-14 on Sunday and even though Tate was trusted to run out the clock, West was the better running back. This backfield has changed hands frequently this season so it’s a situation to monitor. I picked West as the inevitable starter coming into the season because he had the most upside. Tate isn’t banged up at the moment so he will continue to at least split carries with West limiting both players fantasy value but I still think West is the one to own in the future if you can stash him.
Jonas Gray, Patriots (17.6%/18%): He wasn’t exactly the Patriots runner between the tackles against the Broncos Sunday that everyone thought coming off a 17 carry game two weeks ago. Still, he is the Patriots “big back” and his stats will depend on the game plan. Rookie James White has been a healthy scratch and both Brandon Bolden’s and Shane Vereen’s contracts are up at the end of the year so the rest of the way could be a bit of an audition for Gray. He’s worth stashing in dynasty or keeper leagues because of his potential for next year and could even have some good games peppered over the rest of the year.
Bye Week Fliers: Toby Gerhart, Jaguars. Charles Sims, Buccaneers. Jonathan Stewart, Panthers.
Wide Receivers
“Hot Hands”
Mike Evans, Buccaneers (31.8%/61%): He is most likely already owned in your Yahoo league, but if you’re in ESPN leagues, he may not be. He doesn’t have a very consistent or accurate quarterback which will hold him back but he has the physical ability to compensate more than some other receivers. He has easy matchups against the Falcons and Redskins to help push you towards the playoffs. He should also be a great pick for keeper or dynasty leagues to see if the Bucs can right the ship at quarterback.
Martavis Bryant, Steelers (22.1%/43%): He now has five touchdowns since his debut just three weeks ago. He is for real and is clearly an important player in balancing out defenses who choose to shift coverage to Antonio Brown. He is a WR3/flex option as Ben Roethlisberger isn’t going to throw six touchdowns per game consistently. He is usually looked to after Antonio Brown and Le’Veon Bell to score so he holds the upper hand over Markus Wheaton.
Harry Douglas, Falcons (1.9%/3%): This week, the Falcons have a matchup against the defense allowing the most fantasy points to wide receivers this season - the Bucs. The Falcons had a much needed bye week last week and should come out firing on all cylinders against a team they decimated in Week 3. Douglas had caught 2-of-2 for 14 yards and a touchdown before he left that game with an injury. He has a high chance of scoring again against the Bucs defense so I see him as a WR3/flex this week.
Kenny Britt, Rams (8.6%/9%): While Benny Cunningham was the Rams leading “receiver”, Britt was not far behind. He caught the lone touchdown pass of the day from Austin Davis but totaled only 32 yards on two catches. It was a forgetful performance buoyed by the touchdown but besides Jared Cook, Britt seems to be the next go-to man for Davis. He is not going to be very relevant unless he gets into the endzone but is mentioned because the Rams don’t have much to throw to after Brian Quick was lost for the season. He’s only worth consideration in deeper leagues or if you are desperately thin at receiver.
“Dynasty”
Jarvis Landry, Dolphins (7.8%/8%): He continues to catch almost everything that is thrown his way and is now clearly ahead of Brian Hartline in the pecking order. Ryan Tannehill is turning into a star before our eyes and Landry is going for the ride. He’ll continue to be the second passing option behind Mike Wallace. With matchups that will require Tannehill to throw against because of their run defenses, Landry should continue to see five to seven targets per game as he grows with Tannehill. He’s worth stashing now while he is budding.
Bye Week Fliers: Jerricho Cotchery, Panthers. Cecil Shorts III, Jaguars. Markus Wheaton, Steelers. Jordan Matthews, Eagles
Tight Ends
“Hot Hands”
Mychal Rivera, Raiders (2.2%/2%): For the second week in a row, Rivera put up big numbers. He followed his seven catch, 83 yard performance with an eight catch, 38 yard and a touchdown encore. Next week, the Raiders play the Broncos and while that doesn’t bode well for Derek Carr, his receivers don’t get negative points for the interceptions he’ll throw. The Raiders will be playing from behind in this one so Rivera could at least get some garbage time points.
Charles Clay, Dolphins (20.2%/44%): This weekend, we had another Charles Clay sighting. He’s been underwhelming and a dud most of the year. He can’t be dubbed consistent yet but he has shown flashes of his 2013 self over the past few games. He has caught 13 balls for 158 yards and two touchdowns in four games since the Dolphins bye in Week 5. If he can continue his upward swing, he could finish the year strong and be a great late year addition for many fantasy owners.
Owen Daniels, Ravens (28.3%/30%): After a minor knee surgery a few weeks ago, Daniels appears to have not missed a beat. He caught six balls for 53 yards while fellow tight end, Crockett Gillmore was the one who scored a touchdown. Daniels was targeted a team-high nine times Sunday night as he was clearly part of the plan. He’s a low-end TE1 in PPR leagues and much of his value is dependent on touchdowns. He’s not a bad fill-in though for anyone who has a tight end on bye this week.
Coby Fleener, Colts (18.7%/30%): He’s heading into his bye week but he put on quite the performance Monday night. He finished with four catches for 70 yards and a touchdown on 11 targets. Fellow tight end Dwayne Allen also caught four balls and a touchdown so this is clearly a job split in two. Although Fleener doesn’t score all that often compared to Allen, he still has the same potential upside. It just depends on who is featured that game. There are worse options if you are streaming tight ends after this week.
“Dynasty”
Tim Wright, Patriots (11%/23%): He put up a complete donut on Sunday against the Broncos. He wasn’t even targeted in the game but that is what comes with being in the Patriots offense. You never know who is going to be involved the most behind Gronk each week but Tim Wright certainly has the tools. He hasn’t had any major yards in any game, topping out at 85 in Week 5, but he’s caught three touchdowns which has helped his fantasy numbers. Hopefully with the Patriots on a bye this week, they can figure out a way to get Wright more involved consistently. Until then, he’s a boom/bust tight end.
Bye Week Fliers: Heath Miller, Steelers. Scott Chandler, Bills. Clay Harbor, Jaguars.
Defenses/ST
Detroit D/ST: Since they were on a bye last week, someone may have dropped them. Make sure to pick them up as they are a top-5 defense.
Steelers D/ST: They are playing the turnover happy Jets who are still unsure of their starting quarterback this week so there’s much to like in this matchup.
Packers D/ST: The Bears are imploding but this one may come back to bite me as they return from their bye.
Ravens D/ST: This unit has created a turnover in every game but two this year. They see the Titans this week who give up the 23rd most fantasy points to opposing defenses.
Kickers
Mason Crosby, Packers: 11/12 FG, 25/25 XP
Graham Gano, Panthers: 17/19 FG, 16/16 XP
Chandler Catanzaro, Cardinals: 16/16 FG, 18/18 XP
Shaun Suisham, Steelers: 14/15 FG, 25/25 XP
Shayne Graham, Saints: 13/14 FG, 24/25 XP
Quarterback Champs:
Ben Roethlisberger- 25/37, 340 yards, 6 TDs- 35.7 fantasy points
Yeah that’s 12 touchdowns in two games. Don’t touch him. You might burn yourself. However, he’s not a bad sell high candidate, especially for Foles owners. #ValueCity
Tom Brady- 33/53, 333, 4 TDs, INT – 27.6 fantasy points
And it continues… the Patriots are now establishing themselves as a force in the AFC, and now are showing people why they may actually be the best team in the conference. Top 5 QB moving forward…
Peyton Manning- 34/57, 438 yards, 2 TDs, 2 INTs- 21.7 fantasy points
A valiant effort in the loss, but he was second best quarterback on the field in Foxborough.
Quarterback Chumps:
Philip Rivers- 12/23, 138 yards, 3 INTs- NEGATIVE 2.3 fantasy points
Just a horrific day for Rivers as the Dolphins D gobbled him up all day and further established themselves as one of the best defenses in the league.
Running Back Champs:
Jeremy Hill- 24 Rush, 154 yards, 2 TDs; 1 Rec, 9 yards– 28.3 fantasy points
You can legitimately make the argument the argument that Hill is a better play than Bernard because with Bernard out, Hill isn’t battling anyone for carries. He should be a stud as long as Gio is out…
Marshawn Lynch-21 Rush, 67 yards, 2 TDs; 5 Rec, 76 yards- 26.3 fantasy points
Beast mode didn’t go over 100 yards rushing, but was the Seahawks best offensive weapon Sunday, as they took care of the Raiders…I would feel very comfortable acquiring Lynch in any league format, as the Seahawks realize that his success directly correlates with wins.
Matt Asiata- 10 Rush, 26 yards, 3 TDs; 4 Rec, 31 yards – 25.7 fantasy points
He isn’t dominating the touches, but he’s seeing all the goal line work. You still can’t start the guy with confidence, but hey, at least there is a trend here. He has six touchdowns on the season. He had three in week four. He had three this week. This means he will have three touchdowns in week 14 against the Jets, right?
Running Back Chumps:
Chris Ivory- 8 Rush, 22 yards– 2.2 fantasy points
This is a bit disconcerting, but even moreso that CJ2k had over 100 total yards on the day. GET ME OFF THIS MERRY-GO-ROUND!
Brandon Oliver - 13 Rush, 19 yards, 1 Rec, 7 yards- 2.6 fantasy points
Heading into the bye it’s going to be interesting how they decide to divide the carries between him and Matthews, assuming he will be ready to suit up week 11. Monitor closely.
Wide Receiver Champs:
Jeremy Maclin-5 Rec, 158 yards, 2 TDs-27.8 fantasy points
The second week in a row at the top. His stock has NEVER been hotter… However, let’s see if it takes a hit with Mark Sanchez at the helm.
Mike Evans- 7 Rec, 124 yards, 2 TDs – 24.4 fantasy points
Mike Evans is getting more and more involved in the offense, and Glennon loves him in the red zone. It’s hard to see who will have more fantasy value moving forward between him and V-Jax. We advise that you avoid the situation altogether…
Allen Hurns- 7 Rec, 112 yards, 2 TDs – 23.2 fantasy points
Oh, hey Mr. Hurns? Haven’t seen you show up since week one…you can stay on waivers until you show some consistency in that high powered Jags offense (sarcastic tone)!
Wide Receiver Chumps:
Cordarrelle Patterson- 1 Rec, 9 yards- 0.9 fantasy points
Drop city, drop drop city. He will be the biggest athletic freak on waivers, but that’s where he belongs in any league under 14 teams. #Isthisreallife
Pierre Garcon- 3 Rec, 15 yards-1.5 fantasy points
He’s one of the guys making you pull your hair out all season long…
Kelvin Benjamin- 2 Rec, 18 yards-1.8 fantasy points
A super disappointing day for our boy, Kelvin, as the Panthers just couldn’t get anything done offensively…
Tight End Champs:
Rob Gronkowski- 9 Rec, 105 yards, TD- 16.5 fantasy points
18 catches, 254 yards and four touchdowns over the past two weeks. The beast is officially back. Gronk spike football HARD!!!!
Mychal Rivera- 8 Rec, 38 yards, 2 TDs- 15.8 fantasy points
Don’t let this fluke excite you.
Jimmy Graham- 7 Rec, 83 yards, TD- 14.3 fantasy points
Another day at the office for Jimmy, as he slowly gets closer to full health.
Tight End Chumps:
Clay Harbor- ZERO catches, ZERO yards- ZERO fantasy points
I’m just gonna call him “Goose” Harbor. Sounds like a beer…
Zach Ertz-1 Rec, 4 yards- 0.4 fantasy points
Zach, it really Ertz when you can’t produce bro…#ErtzDonut
Star Rookie Watch:
Brandin Cooks- 3 Rec, 38 yards - 3.8 Fantasy Points
Oh boy… don’t expect him for more than a flex play at best…
Sammy Watkins- *BYE
Kelvin Benjamin-[see chumps section]
**Note: Fantasy points denote standard, non-PPR scoring.
Follow me on Twitter: @FBNationGrizzle
Week 9 is in the books and there wasn’t as much turmoil as there usually is in a given week. Six teams - the Falcons, Bills, Bears, Lions, Packers and Titans will return refreshed after taking their week of rest. This will be another hard week that sees many owners wishing they built their lineup around having one specific week off, but don’t worry, that’s what I’m here for. Hopefully plenty of owners are still in the hunt. I wrote an article last week to help identify players who have favorable schedules, please feel free to check it out.
Teams on their bye this week are the Texans, Colts, Vikings, Patriots, Chargers and Redskins. There is plenty of talent there to build a lineup so there may be some owners stuck with rolling out the skeleton crew. Ownership percentages are for ESPN and Yahoo leagues respectively.
Quarterbacks
“Hot Hands”
Ryan Tannehill, Dolphins (40.4%/57%): Tannehill has turned into an absolute stud since his bye week. His most recent performance totalled 288 yards on 24 completions, three touchdowns and no picks. Over the last four games, he’s thrown for less than 200 yards once and has a 8:3 touchdown to interception ratio. He’s also rushing more and more effectively. He has totals of 49, 48, 48, and 47 yards over his past four games respectively. He is quietly entering into the QB1 conversation and is owned in less than half of ESPN leagues.
Mark Sanchez, Eagles (0.4%/5%): Nick Foles is out at least six weeks with a broken collarbone. That puts him out of your lineup until about Week 15 or Week 16. Sanchez threw for 202 yards with two touchdowns and two interceptions in relief of Foles Sunday. Despite his shortcomings as the Jets’ starter for years, he could be a decent quarterback replacing Foles for the rest of the season. The Chip Kelly system is the main reason for that speculation and defenses will always have to stay honest against LeSean McCoy. Sanchez could be a rollercoaster but I think he’ll have more good games than bad.
Mike Glennon, Buccaneers (3.6%/7%): There has been speculation that he may be benched in favor of a healthy Josh McCown. But at this point, for the one-win Bucs, they should stick with the young gun. With the playoffs out of reach, why turn to a 35 year-old quarterback instead of giving 24 year-old Glennon as much experience as possible in hopes of developing him? He sees a relatively easy road the next few games in the Falcons and Redskins who should buoy his numbers and keep him in the QB2 conversation for anybody in 2-QB leagues.
Alex Smith, Chiefs (35.9%/46%): Although he gets the Bills defense who have 18 interceptions this week, he is known as a game manager and that is just what he is. He’s only thrown four interceptions all year, albeit three came in Week 1 so we can’t say he hasn’t thrown multiple picks in a game. I don’t think he throws more than one this week if he throws any and he’ll be a solid option for those with quarterbacks on bye.
“Dynasty”
Zach Mettenberger, Titans (1.2%/2%): He threw for almost 300 yards, two touchdowns and one pick in his debut start two weeks ago. The Titans didn’t play this weekend as its their bye week and that can only mean good things for the chemistry of this offense. If he’s given the keys to the team the rest of the season, he could put in some good games but not without some growing pains. Right now, he’s a rookie to watch but not depended on with a tough schedule upcoming.
Bye Week Fliers: Brian Hoyer, Browns. Kyle Orton, Bills.
Running Backs
“Hot Hands”
Adrian Peterson, Vikings: Even with so much up in the air regarding his suspension, Peterson did accept a deal on his court case and pleaded no contest (which is slightly different than just "guilty" or "not guilty").That being said, the NFL will have to make a decision to reinstate him after serving the 8 game suspension. He may be eligible to play as early as Week 11 (Vikings on a bye in Week 10). We say "MAY be able to play" because the NFL has yet to determine if they are going to continue his suspension. It's worth taking a chance on and picking him up this week.
Tre Mason, Rams (49%/37%): Who to own in the Rams backfield - Mason or Cunningham? The answer is definitely not Zac Stacy anymore. Mason is the first running back to own after getting another start and racking up 19 carries, especially if you are not in a PPR league. Cunningham will continue to take snaps away from Mason because Mason doesn’t play a role in the passing game. It is rare to find a player who will have workhorse-like carries this late in the year so he should be owned just based on the opportunity.
Benny Cunningham, Rams (8.3%/17%): Cunningham is still the Rams’ primary receiving back as he caught three balls on three targets for 38 yards. Those 38 yards were good enough for him to be the leading receiver for the Rams this week as well. That is not good, but it shows that Cunningham is a part in the game plan. Since Cunningham is clearly behind Mason in carries, you would have to be in a PPR league for Cunningham to be relevant. He’s worth being stashed for matchups where his receiving abilities will be highlighted.
Matt Asiata, Vikings (26.8%/31%): He’s on a bye this week but he has to be mentioned based on his 3-touchdown performance on Sunday afternoon. He’s still the goal-line back for the Vikings and if you’re desperate he’s worth possible flex starts against the porous Bears and Packers in the couple weeks after his bye week. Those matchups give Asiata a good chance of scoring.
Theo Riddick, Lions (2.1%/5%): Regardless of Reggie Bush’s injury status, the Lions have said they will keep Riddick involved. That is not good news for Bush owners so don’t forget about Riddick after his bye in Week 9. He’s someone to wait and see how many touches he gets and what he does with them. If for some reason Bush can’t play or is limited against the Dolphins, Riddick gets a bump to a low-level flex play.
“Dynasty”
Terrance West, Browns (31%/23%): He out-touched Ben Tate, 16-14 on Sunday and even though Tate was trusted to run out the clock, West was the better running back. This backfield has changed hands frequently this season so it’s a situation to monitor. I picked West as the inevitable starter coming into the season because he had the most upside. Tate isn’t banged up at the moment so he will continue to at least split carries with West limiting both players fantasy value but I still think West is the one to own in the future if you can stash him.
Jonas Gray, Patriots (17.6%/18%): He wasn’t exactly the Patriots runner between the tackles against the Broncos Sunday that everyone thought coming off a 17 carry game two weeks ago. Still, he is the Patriots “big back” and his stats will depend on the game plan. Rookie James White has been a healthy scratch and both Brandon Bolden’s and Shane Vereen’s contracts are up at the end of the year so the rest of the way could be a bit of an audition for Gray. He’s worth stashing in dynasty or keeper leagues because of his potential for next year and could even have some good games peppered over the rest of the year.
Bye Week Fliers: Toby Gerhart, Jaguars. Charles Sims, Buccaneers. Jonathan Stewart, Panthers.
Wide Receivers
“Hot Hands”
Mike Evans, Buccaneers (31.8%/61%): He is most likely already owned in your Yahoo league, but if you’re in ESPN leagues, he may not be. He doesn’t have a very consistent or accurate quarterback which will hold him back but he has the physical ability to compensate more than some other receivers. He has easy matchups against the Falcons and Redskins to help push you towards the playoffs. He should also be a great pick for keeper or dynasty leagues to see if the Bucs can right the ship at quarterback.
Martavis Bryant, Steelers (22.1%/43%): He now has five touchdowns since his debut just three weeks ago. He is for real and is clearly an important player in balancing out defenses who choose to shift coverage to Antonio Brown. He is a WR3/flex option as Ben Roethlisberger isn’t going to throw six touchdowns per game consistently. He is usually looked to after Antonio Brown and Le’Veon Bell to score so he holds the upper hand over Markus Wheaton.
Harry Douglas, Falcons (1.9%/3%): This week, the Falcons have a matchup against the defense allowing the most fantasy points to wide receivers this season - the Bucs. The Falcons had a much needed bye week last week and should come out firing on all cylinders against a team they decimated in Week 3. Douglas had caught 2-of-2 for 14 yards and a touchdown before he left that game with an injury. He has a high chance of scoring again against the Bucs defense so I see him as a WR3/flex this week.
Kenny Britt, Rams (8.6%/9%): While Benny Cunningham was the Rams leading “receiver”, Britt was not far behind. He caught the lone touchdown pass of the day from Austin Davis but totaled only 32 yards on two catches. It was a forgetful performance buoyed by the touchdown but besides Jared Cook, Britt seems to be the next go-to man for Davis. He is not going to be very relevant unless he gets into the endzone but is mentioned because the Rams don’t have much to throw to after Brian Quick was lost for the season. He’s only worth consideration in deeper leagues or if you are desperately thin at receiver.
“Dynasty”
Jarvis Landry, Dolphins (7.8%/8%): He continues to catch almost everything that is thrown his way and is now clearly ahead of Brian Hartline in the pecking order. Ryan Tannehill is turning into a star before our eyes and Landry is going for the ride. He’ll continue to be the second passing option behind Mike Wallace. With matchups that will require Tannehill to throw against because of their run defenses, Landry should continue to see five to seven targets per game as he grows with Tannehill. He’s worth stashing now while he is budding.
Bye Week Fliers: Jerricho Cotchery, Panthers. Cecil Shorts III, Jaguars. Markus Wheaton, Steelers. Jordan Matthews, Eagles
Tight Ends
“Hot Hands”
Mychal Rivera, Raiders (2.2%/2%): For the second week in a row, Rivera put up big numbers. He followed his seven catch, 83 yard performance with an eight catch, 38 yard and a touchdown encore. Next week, the Raiders play the Broncos and while that doesn’t bode well for Derek Carr, his receivers don’t get negative points for the interceptions he’ll throw. The Raiders will be playing from behind in this one so Rivera could at least get some garbage time points.
Charles Clay, Dolphins (20.2%/44%): This weekend, we had another Charles Clay sighting. He’s been underwhelming and a dud most of the year. He can’t be dubbed consistent yet but he has shown flashes of his 2013 self over the past few games. He has caught 13 balls for 158 yards and two touchdowns in four games since the Dolphins bye in Week 5. If he can continue his upward swing, he could finish the year strong and be a great late year addition for many fantasy owners.
Owen Daniels, Ravens (28.3%/30%): After a minor knee surgery a few weeks ago, Daniels appears to have not missed a beat. He caught six balls for 53 yards while fellow tight end, Crockett Gillmore was the one who scored a touchdown. Daniels was targeted a team-high nine times Sunday night as he was clearly part of the plan. He’s a low-end TE1 in PPR leagues and much of his value is dependent on touchdowns. He’s not a bad fill-in though for anyone who has a tight end on bye this week.
Coby Fleener, Colts (18.7%/30%): He’s heading into his bye week but he put on quite the performance Monday night. He finished with four catches for 70 yards and a touchdown on 11 targets. Fellow tight end Dwayne Allen also caught four balls and a touchdown so this is clearly a job split in two. Although Fleener doesn’t score all that often compared to Allen, he still has the same potential upside. It just depends on who is featured that game. There are worse options if you are streaming tight ends after this week.
“Dynasty”
Tim Wright, Patriots (11%/23%): He put up a complete donut on Sunday against the Broncos. He wasn’t even targeted in the game but that is what comes with being in the Patriots offense. You never know who is going to be involved the most behind Gronk each week but Tim Wright certainly has the tools. He hasn’t had any major yards in any game, topping out at 85 in Week 5, but he’s caught three touchdowns which has helped his fantasy numbers. Hopefully with the Patriots on a bye this week, they can figure out a way to get Wright more involved consistently. Until then, he’s a boom/bust tight end.
Bye Week Fliers: Heath Miller, Steelers. Scott Chandler, Bills. Clay Harbor, Jaguars.
Defenses/ST
Detroit D/ST: Since they were on a bye last week, someone may have dropped them. Make sure to pick them up as they are a top-5 defense.
Steelers D/ST: They are playing the turnover happy Jets who are still unsure of their starting quarterback this week so there’s much to like in this matchup.
Packers D/ST: The Bears are imploding but this one may come back to bite me as they return from their bye.
Ravens D/ST: This unit has created a turnover in every game but two this year. They see the Titans this week who give up the 23rd most fantasy points to opposing defenses.
Kickers
Mason Crosby, Packers: 11/12 FG, 25/25 XP
Graham Gano, Panthers: 17/19 FG, 16/16 XP
Chandler Catanzaro, Cardinals: 16/16 FG, 18/18 XP
Shaun Suisham, Steelers: 14/15 FG, 25/25 XP
Shayne Graham, Saints: 13/14 FG, 24/25 XP
Quarterback Champs:
Ben Roethlisberger- 25/37, 340 yards, 6 TDs- 35.7 fantasy points
Yeah that’s 12 touchdowns in two games. Don’t touch him. You might burn yourself. However, he’s not a bad sell high candidate, especially for Foles owners. #ValueCity
Tom Brady- 33/53, 333, 4 TDs, INT – 27.6 fantasy points
And it continues… the Patriots are now establishing themselves as a force in the AFC, and now are showing people why they may actually be the best team in the conference. Top 5 QB moving forward…
Peyton Manning- 34/57, 438 yards, 2 TDs, 2 INTs- 21.7 fantasy points
A valiant effort in the loss, but he was second best quarterback on the field in Foxborough.
Quarterback Chumps:
Philip Rivers- 12/23, 138 yards, 3 INTs- NEGATIVE 2.3 fantasy points
Just a horrific day for Rivers as the Dolphins D gobbled him up all day and further established themselves as one of the best defenses in the league.
Running Back Champs:
Jeremy Hill- 24 Rush, 154 yards, 2 TDs; 1 Rec, 9 yards– 28.3 fantasy points
You can legitimately make the argument the argument that Hill is a better play than Bernard because with Bernard out, Hill isn’t battling anyone for carries. He should be a stud as long as Gio is out…
Marshawn Lynch-21 Rush, 67 yards, 2 TDs; 5 Rec, 76 yards- 26.3 fantasy points
Beast mode didn’t go over 100 yards rushing, but was the Seahawks best offensive weapon Sunday, as they took care of the Raiders…I would feel very comfortable acquiring Lynch in any league format, as the Seahawks realize that his success directly correlates with wins.
Matt Asiata- 10 Rush, 26 yards, 3 TDs; 4 Rec, 31 yards – 25.7 fantasy points
He isn’t dominating the touches, but he’s seeing all the goal line work. You still can’t start the guy with confidence, but hey, at least there is a trend here. He has six touchdowns on the season. He had three in week four. He had three this week. This means he will have three touchdowns in week 14 against the Jets, right?
Running Back Chumps:
Chris Ivory- 8 Rush, 22 yards– 2.2 fantasy points
This is a bit disconcerting, but even moreso that CJ2k had over 100 total yards on the day. GET ME OFF THIS MERRY-GO-ROUND!
Brandon Oliver - 13 Rush, 19 yards, 1 Rec, 7 yards- 2.6 fantasy points
Heading into the bye it’s going to be interesting how they decide to divide the carries between him and Matthews, assuming he will be ready to suit up week 11. Monitor closely.
Wide Receiver Champs:
Jeremy Maclin-5 Rec, 158 yards, 2 TDs-27.8 fantasy points
The second week in a row at the top. His stock has NEVER been hotter… However, let’s see if it takes a hit with Mark Sanchez at the helm.
Mike Evans- 7 Rec, 124 yards, 2 TDs – 24.4 fantasy points
Mike Evans is getting more and more involved in the offense, and Glennon loves him in the red zone. It’s hard to see who will have more fantasy value moving forward between him and V-Jax. We advise that you avoid the situation altogether…
Allen Hurns- 7 Rec, 112 yards, 2 TDs – 23.2 fantasy points
Oh, hey Mr. Hurns? Haven’t seen you show up since week one…you can stay on waivers until you show some consistency in that high powered Jags offense (sarcastic tone)!
Wide Receiver Chumps:
Cordarrelle Patterson- 1 Rec, 9 yards- 0.9 fantasy points
Drop city, drop drop city. He will be the biggest athletic freak on waivers, but that’s where he belongs in any league under 14 teams. #Isthisreallife
Pierre Garcon- 3 Rec, 15 yards-1.5 fantasy points
He’s one of the guys making you pull your hair out all season long…
Kelvin Benjamin- 2 Rec, 18 yards-1.8 fantasy points
A super disappointing day for our boy, Kelvin, as the Panthers just couldn’t get anything done offensively…
Tight End Champs:
Rob Gronkowski- 9 Rec, 105 yards, TD- 16.5 fantasy points
18 catches, 254 yards and four touchdowns over the past two weeks. The beast is officially back. Gronk spike football HARD!!!!
Mychal Rivera- 8 Rec, 38 yards, 2 TDs- 15.8 fantasy points
Don’t let this fluke excite you.
Jimmy Graham- 7 Rec, 83 yards, TD- 14.3 fantasy points
Another day at the office for Jimmy, as he slowly gets closer to full health.
Tight End Chumps:
Clay Harbor- ZERO catches, ZERO yards- ZERO fantasy points
I’m just gonna call him “Goose” Harbor. Sounds like a beer…
Zach Ertz-1 Rec, 4 yards- 0.4 fantasy points
Zach, it really Ertz when you can’t produce bro…#ErtzDonut
Star Rookie Watch:
Brandin Cooks- 3 Rec, 38 yards - 3.8 Fantasy Points
Oh boy… don’t expect him for more than a flex play at best…
Sammy Watkins- *BYE
Kelvin Benjamin-[see chumps section]
**Note: Fantasy points denote standard, non-PPR scoring.
Follow me on Twitter: @FBNationGrizzle
Week 9 is in the books and there wasn’t as much turmoil as there usually is in a given week. Six teams - the Falcons, Bills, Bears, Lions, Packers and Titans will return refreshed after taking their week of rest. This will be another hard week that sees many owners wishing they built their lineup around having one specific week off, but don’t worry, that’s what I’m here for. Hopefully plenty of owners are still in the hunt. I wrote an article last week to help identify players who have favorable schedules, please feel free to check it out.
Teams on their bye this week are the Texans, Colts, Vikings, Patriots, Chargers and Redskins. There is plenty of talent there to build a lineup so there may be some owners stuck with rolling out the skeleton crew. Ownership percentages are for ESPN and Yahoo leagues respectively.
Quarterbacks
“Hot Hands”
Ryan Tannehill, Dolphins (40.4%/57%): Tannehill has turned into an absolute stud since his bye week. His most recent performance totalled 288 yards on 24 completions, three touchdowns and no picks. Over the last four games, he’s thrown for less than 200 yards once and has a 8:3 touchdown to interception ratio. He’s also rushing more and more effectively. He has totals of 49, 48, 48, and 47 yards over his past four games respectively. He is quietly entering into the QB1 conversation and is owned in less than half of ESPN leagues.
Mark Sanchez, Eagles (0.4%/5%): Nick Foles is out at least six weeks with a broken collarbone. That puts him out of your lineup until about Week 15 or Week 16. Sanchez threw for 202 yards with two touchdowns and two interceptions in relief of Foles Sunday. Despite his shortcomings as the Jets’ starter for years, he could be a decent quarterback replacing Foles for the rest of the season. The Chip Kelly system is the main reason for that speculation and defenses will always have to stay honest against LeSean McCoy. Sanchez could be a rollercoaster but I think he’ll have more good games than bad.
Mike Glennon, Buccaneers (3.6%/7%): There has been speculation that he may be benched in favor of a healthy Josh McCown. But at this point, for the one-win Bucs, they should stick with the young gun. With the playoffs out of reach, why turn to a 35 year-old quarterback instead of giving 24 year-old Glennon as much experience as possible in hopes of developing him? He sees a relatively easy road the next few games in the Falcons and Redskins who should buoy his numbers and keep him in the QB2 conversation for anybody in 2-QB leagues.
Alex Smith, Chiefs (35.9%/46%): Although he gets the Bills defense who have 18 interceptions this week, he is known as a game manager and that is just what he is. He’s only thrown four interceptions all year, albeit three came in Week 1 so we can’t say he hasn’t thrown multiple picks in a game. I don’t think he throws more than one this week if he throws any and he’ll be a solid option for those with quarterbacks on bye.
“Dynasty”
Zach Mettenberger, Titans (1.2%/2%): He threw for almost 300 yards, two touchdowns and one pick in his debut start two weeks ago. The Titans didn’t play this weekend as its their bye week and that can only mean good things for the chemistry of this offense. If he’s given the keys to the team the rest of the season, he could put in some good games but not without some growing pains. Right now, he’s a rookie to watch but not depended on with a tough schedule upcoming.
Bye Week Fliers: Brian Hoyer, Browns. Kyle Orton, Bills.
Running Backs
“Hot Hands”
Adrian Peterson, Vikings: Even with so much up in the air regarding his suspension, Peterson did accept a deal on his court case and pleaded no contest (which is slightly different than just "guilty" or "not guilty").That being said, the NFL will have to make a decision to reinstate him after serving the 8 game suspension. He may be eligible to play as early as Week 11 (Vikings on a bye in Week 10). We say "MAY be able to play" because the NFL has yet to determine if they are going to continue his suspension. It's worth taking a chance on and picking him up this week.
Tre Mason, Rams (49%/37%): Who to own in the Rams backfield - Mason or Cunningham? The answer is definitely not Zac Stacy anymore. Mason is the first running back to own after getting another start and racking up 19 carries, especially if you are not in a PPR league. Cunningham will continue to take snaps away from Mason because Mason doesn’t play a role in the passing game. It is rare to find a player who will have workhorse-like carries this late in the year so he should be owned just based on the opportunity.
Benny Cunningham, Rams (8.3%/17%): Cunningham is still the Rams’ primary receiving back as he caught three balls on three targets for 38 yards. Those 38 yards were good enough for him to be the leading receiver for the Rams this week as well. That is not good, but it shows that Cunningham is a part in the game plan. Since Cunningham is clearly behind Mason in carries, you would have to be in a PPR league for Cunningham to be relevant. He’s worth being stashed for matchups where his receiving abilities will be highlighted.
Matt Asiata, Vikings (26.8%/31%): He’s on a bye this week but he has to be mentioned based on his 3-touchdown performance on Sunday afternoon. He’s still the goal-line back for the Vikings and if you’re desperate he’s worth possible flex starts against the porous Bears and Packers in the couple weeks after his bye week. Those matchups give Asiata a good chance of scoring.
Theo Riddick, Lions (2.1%/5%): Regardless of Reggie Bush’s injury status, the Lions have said they will keep Riddick involved. That is not good news for Bush owners so don’t forget about Riddick after his bye in Week 9. He’s someone to wait and see how many touches he gets and what he does with them. If for some reason Bush can’t play or is limited against the Dolphins, Riddick gets a bump to a low-level flex play.
“Dynasty”
Terrance West, Browns (31%/23%): He out-touched Ben Tate, 16-14 on Sunday and even though Tate was trusted to run out the clock, West was the better running back. This backfield has changed hands frequently this season so it’s a situation to monitor. I picked West as the inevitable starter coming into the season because he had the most upside. Tate isn’t banged up at the moment so he will continue to at least split carries with West limiting both players fantasy value but I still think West is the one to own in the future if you can stash him.
Jonas Gray, Patriots (17.6%/18%): He wasn’t exactly the Patriots runner between the tackles against the Broncos Sunday that everyone thought coming off a 17 carry game two weeks ago. Still, he is the Patriots “big back” and his stats will depend on the game plan. Rookie James White has been a healthy scratch and both Brandon Bolden’s and Shane Vereen’s contracts are up at the end of the year so the rest of the way could be a bit of an audition for Gray. He’s worth stashing in dynasty or keeper leagues because of his potential for next year and could even have some good games peppered over the rest of the year.
Bye Week Fliers: Toby Gerhart, Jaguars. Charles Sims, Buccaneers. Jonathan Stewart, Panthers.
Wide Receivers
“Hot Hands”
Mike Evans, Buccaneers (31.8%/61%): He is most likely already owned in your Yahoo league, but if you’re in ESPN leagues, he may not be. He doesn’t have a very consistent or accurate quarterback which will hold him back but he has the physical ability to compensate more than some other receivers. He has easy matchups against the Falcons and Redskins to help push you towards the playoffs. He should also be a great pick for keeper or dynasty leagues to see if the Bucs can right the ship at quarterback.
Martavis Bryant, Steelers (22.1%/43%): He now has five touchdowns since his debut just three weeks ago. He is for real and is clearly an important player in balancing out defenses who choose to shift coverage to Antonio Brown. He is a WR3/flex option as Ben Roethlisberger isn’t going to throw six touchdowns per game consistently. He is usually looked to after Antonio Brown and Le’Veon Bell to score so he holds the upper hand over Markus Wheaton.
Harry Douglas, Falcons (1.9%/3%): This week, the Falcons have a matchup against the defense allowing the most fantasy points to wide receivers this season - the Bucs. The Falcons had a much needed bye week last week and should come out firing on all cylinders against a team they decimated in Week 3. Douglas had caught 2-of-2 for 14 yards and a touchdown before he left that game with an injury. He has a high chance of scoring again against the Bucs defense so I see him as a WR3/flex this week.
Kenny Britt, Rams (8.6%/9%): While Benny Cunningham was the Rams leading “receiver”, Britt was not far behind. He caught the lone touchdown pass of the day from Austin Davis but totaled only 32 yards on two catches. It was a forgetful performance buoyed by the touchdown but besides Jared Cook, Britt seems to be the next go-to man for Davis. He is not going to be very relevant unless he gets into the endzone but is mentioned because the Rams don’t have much to throw to after Brian Quick was lost for the season. He’s only worth consideration in deeper leagues or if you are desperately thin at receiver.
“Dynasty”
Jarvis Landry, Dolphins (7.8%/8%): He continues to catch almost everything that is thrown his way and is now clearly ahead of Brian Hartline in the pecking order. Ryan Tannehill is turning into a star before our eyes and Landry is going for the ride. He’ll continue to be the second passing option behind Mike Wallace. With matchups that will require Tannehill to throw against because of their run defenses, Landry should continue to see five to seven targets per game as he grows with Tannehill. He’s worth stashing now while he is budding.
Bye Week Fliers: Jerricho Cotchery, Panthers. Cecil Shorts III, Jaguars. Markus Wheaton, Steelers. Jordan Matthews, Eagles
Tight Ends
“Hot Hands”
Mychal Rivera, Raiders (2.2%/2%): For the second week in a row, Rivera put up big numbers. He followed his seven catch, 83 yard performance with an eight catch, 38 yard and a touchdown encore. Next week, the Raiders play the Broncos and while that doesn’t bode well for Derek Carr, his receivers don’t get negative points for the interceptions he’ll throw. The Raiders will be playing from behind in this one so Rivera could at least get some garbage time points.
Charles Clay, Dolphins (20.2%/44%): This weekend, we had another Charles Clay sighting. He’s been underwhelming and a dud most of the year. He can’t be dubbed consistent yet but he has shown flashes of his 2013 self over the past few games. He has caught 13 balls for 158 yards and two touchdowns in four games since the Dolphins bye in Week 5. If he can continue his upward swing, he could finish the year strong and be a great late year addition for many fantasy owners.
Owen Daniels, Ravens (28.3%/30%): After a minor knee surgery a few weeks ago, Daniels appears to have not missed a beat. He caught six balls for 53 yards while fellow tight end, Crockett Gillmore was the one who scored a touchdown. Daniels was targeted a team-high nine times Sunday night as he was clearly part of the plan. He’s a low-end TE1 in PPR leagues and much of his value is dependent on touchdowns. He’s not a bad fill-in though for anyone who has a tight end on bye this week.
Coby Fleener, Colts (18.7%/30%): He’s heading into his bye week but he put on quite the performance Monday night. He finished with four catches for 70 yards and a touchdown on 11 targets. Fellow tight end Dwayne Allen also caught four balls and a touchdown so this is clearly a job split in two. Although Fleener doesn’t score all that often compared to Allen, he still has the same potential upside. It just depends on who is featured that game. There are worse options if you are streaming tight ends after this week.
“Dynasty”
Tim Wright, Patriots (11%/23%): He put up a complete donut on Sunday against the Broncos. He wasn’t even targeted in the game but that is what comes with being in the Patriots offense. You never know who is going to be involved the most behind Gronk each week but Tim Wright certainly has the tools. He hasn’t had any major yards in any game, topping out at 85 in Week 5, but he’s caught three touchdowns which has helped his fantasy numbers. Hopefully with the Patriots on a bye this week, they can figure out a way to get Wright more involved consistently. Until then, he’s a boom/bust tight end.
Bye Week Fliers: Heath Miller, Steelers. Scott Chandler, Bills. Clay Harbor, Jaguars.
Defenses/ST
Detroit D/ST: Since they were on a bye last week, someone may have dropped them. Make sure to pick them up as they are a top-5 defense.
Steelers D/ST: They are playing the turnover happy Jets who are still unsure of their starting quarterback this week so there’s much to like in this matchup.
Packers D/ST: The Bears are imploding but this one may come back to bite me as they return from their bye.
Ravens D/ST: This unit has created a turnover in every game but two this year. They see the Titans this week who give up the 23rd most fantasy points to opposing defenses.
Kickers
Mason Crosby, Packers: 11/12 FG, 25/25 XP
Graham Gano, Panthers: 17/19 FG, 16/16 XP
Chandler Catanzaro, Cardinals: 16/16 FG, 18/18 XP
Shaun Suisham, Steelers: 14/15 FG, 25/25 XP
Shayne Graham, Saints: 13/14 FG, 24/25 XP
Halloween weekend was an exciting one in college football and we certainly had our share of treats, as well as a few tricks in there as well. Third ranked Auburn defeated fourth ranked Ole Miss on a fumble on the goaline, TCU topped West Virginia in a Big 12 showdown while Arkansas nearly knocked off number one ranked Mississippi State, Florida State barely maintained their perfect season on Thursday night and Florida upset Georgia in the World’s Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party. As we enter week eleven, it promises to be another big week which will shape the playoff picture in a major way. Big matchups are in the queue and the winners hope to catch the eye of the playoff committee.
Playoff Appeal
One of the biggest matchups of the weekend is one that has been circled on the calendar all season. It’s not often that the games we thought would be major battles at the onset still carry the same weight eleven weeks in. Eighth ranked Michigan State hosting sixteenth ranked Ohio State for control of the Big Ten East, a spot in the Big Ten Championship Game and the most likely candidate from the Big Ten to make the playoff, however, makes the cut. The Spartans have had a week to prepare for the Buckeyes and both teams boast solid defenses to compliment their top five ranked scoring offenses.
Another matchup of ranked opponents pairs tenth ranked Notre Dame against fourteenth ranked Arizona State. The Irish looked a little rusty in their week ten win over Navy after suffering their first loss to Florida State and then having a bye week. They need to be ready to go against Arizona State, however, who hosts the Irish and beat out red hot Utah in overtime in week ten.
The Pac-12 has several big games this week as Washington hosts UCLA and Oregon travels to Utah. UCLA looked more like the team we thought they were at the start of the season in Week Ten against Arizona, but must overcome the talented strategic mind of Head Coach Chris Petersen on the road in Washington. Oregon, meanwhile, will hit the road as well against a Utah team that is playing better and better. While the Utes fell to Arizona State in Week Ten, they are a dangerous team, and might be the biggest challenge the Ducks have faced since Michigan State in Week Two.
Outside of the Pac-12, the Big 12 has a major contest as Baylor faces off against Oklahoma. While both of these teams are a long shot to make the playoff, whichever loses this week is most certainly eliminated. The Sooners could make a case with two losses due to their strength of schedule and slim margin of losses, but the Bears will fall significantly should they come up short again. Both teams also have a chance at the Big 12 Championship with TCU and Kansas State facing off this week as well, but again, they must win this week to stay in the race.
While most power conferences have solid games in Week Eleven, the SEC is taking something of a breather. Third ranked Auburn should have a much easier time against a struggling Texas A&M team with a suspended quarterback than they had against Ole Miss in week ten. After beating South Carolina in Week One, the Aggies only conference win has come against Arkansas. If Auburn finds a way to lose this game at home, look for them to tumble out of the playoff rankings.
In an even more absurd Week Eleven matchup, number one ranked Mississippi State will host lower division FCS opponent Tennessee-Martin. Tennessee-Martin completes Mississippi State’s ridiculously weak non-conference schedule consisting of South Alabama, UAB and Southern Miss, four teams who combine for eleven wins against FBS teams and zero against power five teams. With Mississippi State’s struggles against Arkansas in Week Ten and the cake walk schedule, it would be encouraging to see the playoff committee punish the Bulldogs for even playing this game, but more likely this will serve as just another bye on the number one ranked team’s schedule.
The only other undefeated team in college football has a much stiffer test, though it would be rather difficult not to. Florida State hosts 4-5 Virginia, who had some solid wins early, particularly over Louisville in Week Three, but who have struggled recently. While the Seminoles should be able to keep their perfect record intact, they can’t have a let down after the big road win against Louisville.
Local Flavor
While most of the SEC rests in Week Eleven, there is one major contest. While Alabama and LSU are separated by the state of Mississippi, these two teams know each other well, and it is a rivalry that has been intense throughout the BCS era. One of these two teams has represented the SEC West 13 out of 22 seasons in the SEC Championship Game and over that same time, the series is split with eleven wins apiece. With big name coaches like Nick Saban and Les “the hat” Miles at the helm and so much on the line every year, this rivalry has a definite familiarity to it. While LSU is outside the playoff picture looking in with two losses already, they took out Ole Miss in Week Nine and would love to give Alabama their second loss of the season as well, forcing the playoff committee to drop the tide down the rankings as well.
Game of the Week
While the local flavor provides a big time matchup this week, the Game of the Week is without question the clash in the Big 12 as seventh ranked TCU hosts ninth ranked Kansas State for the top spot in the Big 12 and possible inclusion in the playoff field. The Horned Frogs were able to outlast 22nd ranked West Virginia in Morgantown in Week Ten and the Wildcats decimated Oklahoma State at home, so both teams have good momentum entering this showdown. While Kansas State still needs to face the Mountaineers as well as Baylor to close out their season, a win by TCU would give them a high probability of finishing the season with a single loss. A one loss Big 12 Champion would be hard to keep out of playoff contention with the strength of the conference schedule, but these two teams must first find a way to win in Week Eleven.
Pillow Fight of the Week
Week Eleven not only has big games between power teams, but it also holds one of the best Pillow Fights in recent weeks. SMU, the only winless team remaining in college football has one of their best chances to pick up a victory this week as they face 1-7 Tulsa, whose only win came in double overtime against Tulane in Week One. Since then, the Golden Hurricane has been dismal, ranking near last in both points for and points against. The only thing worse would be ranking dead last in both these categories, a distinction held by their opponent SMU.
Steve Spurrier’s South Carolina Gamecocks can’t seem to catch a break. After a devastating loss to Tennessee, the coach who had a quip about everything if you put a microphone in his face had nothing to say. After 41 seconds at the podium, Spurrier was dejected and looked like a man who was beaten.
In all of the years of covering football, I have never seen the former Gator great in this condition.
For most coaches, losing is part of the equation. For this coach, it is the exception. What it means for him and the future of the South Carolina football program remains to be seen.
Just because a team has a losing record, it does not necessarily mean the coach is as bad as the team’s record.
As we all know, college football is in many ways cyclic. Every season there are teams that fall below expectations only rise above in a season or two. Here are six teams that have great coaches but the program’s record does not reflect it.
Butch Jones – Tennessee
Sooner or later, the Volunteers are going to bring Rocky Top to a fever pitch again. Jones was the hot coach before the season who was going to bring the Tennessee program back to prominence. Jones is the hottest thing to be on campus since Phil Fulmer was winning national titles back in the early 2000s. The Volunteers are a team on the rise for sue and should be an SEC Championship contender soon.
Charlie Strong – Texas
Do you think Charlie Strong knew things might be a little tough when he left the confines of the Louisville Cardinals confines for Austin to replace a legend in Mack Brown?
It all started with the loss of quarterback David Ash and has been a roller coaster he been on since. Strong is an innovator on defense and as he settles in at Texas, things will be better. There are kinder days ahead.
Steve Spurrier – South Carolina
Spurrier? Yes, the Ol’ Ball Coach. At the beginning of the season, the Gamecocks were one of the favorites to win the SEC East and possibly an SEC title. Now, Spurrier will be happy is he earns a post season bowl game. It’s a good thing those rumors about Spurrier returning to Florida have been put to rest.
Frank Beamer – Virginia Tech
It used to be that if you put together a list of great coaches in college football, Frank Beamer’s name would be amongst the best. These days, his Hokies have fallen on hard times. Logan Thomas is gone behind center and the defensive secondary is not what it used to be.
Larry Fedora – North Carolina
At the beginning of the year, Fedora was thought to be a coach in waiting. I thought he might be the next head coach at Florida. The Tar Heels program has been solid over the years, but after the game against Miami, where the Hurricanes running back Duke Johnson tore up the defense, it looks as though this team is mediocre at best.
Bret Bielema – Arkansas
There is something about the Razorbacks that makes up feel the light will go on pretty soon in Bielema’s program. The team is much improved from last season and have played the best (Mississippi State and Alabama) close and looks to be a team opponents will certainly fear in 2015.
COMMENTARY - Are these the Florida State Seminoles or college football’s version of the Showtime Lakers – the team that can flip the switch and turn on the offense and score in droves to make their opponent submit?
Now that the college football season has turned into weekends of knockout football, the Florida State Seminoles are in line to not only crash the SEC strong hold on the top five teams in the country (which they continue to poke at in the rankings) but a firmly entrenched to make a run at another 14-0 season and a national title.
Last Thursday’s come from behind win after trailing 21-0 to a pretty good Louisville defense is the latest chapter in how good this program is and how bad at times the offense struggles to produce early on.
For everything that is said about coach Jimbo Fisher, the one thing he is not is the leader of this sometimes vicious attack they call an offense.
That responsibility is Jameis Winston’s and he cherishes it – believe it or not.
With all that winning – 24-0 if you are counting at home – it has led this team to change its stance form hunting for a national title to becoming the hunted team and maybe the most hated team in college football.
The swagger. The arrogance of the team at times. The constant battle of being a head coach or a defense attorney for the players who are under legal investigation. It is all part of the new culture on campus – the one the media scrutinizes and criticizes, but in reality prays to the heavens each night because the reality is without it, college football would be dull. Nick Saban is the Bill Belichick of the sport and sound bites from the Crimson Tide coach are usually as exciting as watching paint dry.
These aren’t Bobby Bowden’s Seminoles, but you can make an argument the program that won a national title in 1993 and the one now have similarities and are polar opposites. One thing that defines both of them as a program and university is the media (and the actions of players on and off the field) has made the Seminoles out to be the bad guys of college football.
It’s a role undefined and untold but understood in some respects. Finally, college football has a team to replace the University of Miami and Oklahoma Sooners of the late 1980s and the Nebraska Cornhuskers and Florida Gators of the 1990s and early 2000s.
Football is a sport of strength, power, sometimes blood and intimidation. The players are bigger, stronger and faster and in their own minds, entitled. What college football was missing that this program brings to the table maybe more than any other team since the Spurrier Era Florida Gators and Jimmy Johnson’s Miami is characters and personalities in the sport or in this case – business.
The days of Michael Irvin and Vinny Testaverde in fatigues walking off a plane in Norman are lost on this generation. Brian Bosworth running all over the defensive side of the field with a Mohawk daring players to run at him would “rock” in today’s sports media. The fans of today who are young have no idea what the 1990s were like when Lawrence Philips spent as much time in the Nebraska newspapers relating to his off-field incidents of domestic violence charges as he did on the field helping Nebraska and Tom Osborne win national titles.
When you win, you open yourself up to many other issues and scrutiny than the fact the team did not convert on third-and-1 from the five yard line. And for a team that resides in the capital of Florida where other than the legislature being in session and the college year until the summer, the place is pretty quiet and unassuming – almost dull at times.
So with that said, do the Seminoles relish the chance to be college football’s darlings and most wanted in the same breath – sure they do.
Fisher is fiery and aggressive at times, unlike a soft spoken Bobby Bowden. Winston is more outspoken and craves the spotlight, unlike Charlie Ward who would rather slip into obscurity than break down the offense for the local news. These ‘Noles take their “jobs” seriously and want the attention.
Its one thing to be the bully, but it is another thing to be the bully, tell your opponents what you are going to do, and then do it. FSU had better success at it last season, jumping out to huge leads that could not be reeled in. This season, it looks like child’s play, letting the opponent build a lead, gaining a great false sense of security and then playing the role of Lucy Van Pelt of the Peanuts comic strip.
Oh, and by the way, there is no laughing when the football is taken away from the opponent. That’s what these Seminoles do. It’s their job. Scoring in droves? They wait until the second half. That’s their job. And another thing, their job is winning – which they do on a continual basis. Time and time again. That’s what teams like those 1980s Hurricanes and Sooners teams did. That is exactly what the Spurrier-led Gators did in the 1990s and Tom Osborne’s Tommy Frazier-led teams did every week. Florida State is just following the leaders like most programs, excuse me, great programs do.
These Seminoles win games, and deal with all the other incidents and allegations later because winning comes first. Earning the moniker of the hunted or college football’s new bad boys just comes with the territory.
And this team relishes it.
