My Rashard Mendenhall Blog

I always find it helpful to break down specific positions into tiers. As always, the RB pool has some pretty distinct tiers. If you get any of these guys in the Top Tier, you've got a solid anchor to your squad.

Top Tier:
Chris Johnson $$72

Adrian Peterson $69

Maurice Jones-Drew $68

Ray Rice $66

Michael Turner $58

Frank Gore $55

Of course for every tier you can argue if certain players should be included or not and there is a pretty big swing in auction value from CJ to Gore ($17), but I believe these are all top tier talent.

Breakout candidate: Ray Rice

He had a great year last year, is very young and looks to be getting even better. Baltimore loves to run and Rice is a great receiving back as well. I don't think he's come anyway near his ceiling yet.

Safest Play: Maurice Jones-Drew

CJ and AP are also very safe, but you're going to have to pay for them. It feels like last year could be CJ's ceiling, well, you would think. AP looks steady to, but the fumbles are somewhat concerning if he keeps slipping up. Jones-Drew is the every down back who gets goal line work and 3rd down receptions. The Jags aren't a great team, but he is their best asset and they have to feed him.

Bust Potential: Chris Johnson*

It's tough to pinpoint a bust in the top tier this year. I love Chris Johnson, but so many things went right last year, it's just difficult to imagine he pulls it off again. Let me be clear, I don't think Chris Johnson is necessarily a bust (hence the asterisk), he's an awesome player and will have a great year. I just think that you might not get as much value out of him given his price tag this year, which could make him a bust relative to the % of your auction dollars you need to allocate to him to retain his services.

Best Value: Michael Turner

Last year he was a #2 overall guy going for the mid $60 range. He was having a very solid year and then got hurt. He came back very late a couple times but was never really ready nor was he effective. He's had time to heal now and get into better shape. Remember last year he had put on "muscle" coming into a camp. That is a code word for someone who got fat in the off-season. I can't ever think of a time when someone in a skill position puts on a bunch of weight, or "bulked up" as they sell it and it end up being a good thing. Turner will be back, slimmer and ready to return to form from his breakout campaign. His value has been knocked way down because of last year and I'm buying him if his price stays reasonable, like it looks on the board.

2nd Tier:

Steven Jackson $44

DeAngelo Williams $42

Rashard Mendenhall $41

Cedric Benson $40

Ryan Grant $35

Jamaal Charles $35

Ryan Matthews $35

Pierre Thomas $34

Shonn Greene $33

Beanie Wells $32

I almost cut off the tier after Grant, but opted to include the next 5 RB's after that as well. There is definitely a difference; I just don't think it's that huge.

Breakout Candidate: Shonn Greene

I think we were more timid about anointing this guy as the next RB god originally. Sure it was tough not to be high on him after his playoff performance, but once the Jets brought in LT, (even if you think he is done) it was a little worrisome. Given all that I am starting to think this guy could be a monster despite any value LT might shift away from him. The Jets run the ball so much and this guy looks like he can handle the load. It's tough to imagine LT getting any better than he was last year and if Greene is dominating, it's not going to take the Jets long to figure out that superior talent wins out and will get the bulk of the carries and goalline work. Look for Greene to move up our board on the next update.

Safest Play: Ryan Grant

He is the ultimate not-sexy running back. That's good though, because the tempting RB's are usually the ones that burn you. His offense is loaded, moves the ball and scores points. Nobody cuts into Grants workload and he's been producing at a solid level for a good stretch now.

Bust Potential: Rashard Mendenhall

I don't know if it's just me, but whenever I watched this guy play last year I was never overly impressed. I just think he's going way to high right now in drafts and auctions. The Steelers offense is in complete disarray with Big Ben out 6 weeks (maybe 4), Holmes gone and Hines Ward is supposed to be getting old for the tenth consecutive year.

Best Value: Ryan Matthews

I know, I know, how can a rookie have the best value when he's completely unproven. Based on Norv's statement of how much he wants to use this guy, I'm slightly bullish on him. Vincent Jackson might be holding out for a while after his suspension, which hurts the passing attack slightly. LT was such a disaster last year they had to get away from running it. I look for them to bring a more balanced attack again and Matthews will be the top dog in an offense that produces year in year out.

3rd Tier:

Moreno $26

Addai $24

Brown $23

McCoy $17

Stewart $17

Forte $14

Best $14

Tate $13

Jacobs $12

The third tier is the place where a person who did the opposite and went after WR's and QB's first lives. Sure you might get lucky on a couple of these guys if you get a few, but if one, or God forbid, two of them are your starters, I hope you got a really stacked WR corp and/or a premium QB.

Breakout Candidate: Everyone not named Joseph Addai

Seriously, you could make an argument for everyone on the list other than Addai that says each guy could have a breakout first season or rebound season. I just don't see a lot of upside with Addai.

Safest play: Joseph Addai

Huh? No, I'm not really a big fan of Addai, but the guy has produced at a moderate level the past few seasons, including 13 TD's last year. The Colts offense is always steady. The only concern is Donald Brown taking the job from him. Addai is not as old (27) as he feels like. When you're looking at the 3rd tier, it's tough to find safety, but Addai is the closest thing to it.

Bust Potential: Jahvid Best

How many rookie RB's from the Lions are you going to talk yourself into before you just give up and realize that anyone that is on the Lions is probably doomed for failure. Kevin Jones was the last one for me....never again. Let me summon my inner-Pitino...."Barry Sanders is not walking through that door!"

Best Value: Jonathon Stewart

Carolina is so run heavy, even the #2 guy (or depending how you view it, 1A guy) Jonathon Stewart is a beast. He posted starter-like numbers last year despite not being "the guy". He's a great value because if anything happens to DeAngelo, Stewart is probably a top 5 back, providing he doesn't get injured himself.

It's almost time for Fantasy Football season! Let the second guessing and over analysis begin!

The Pittsbugh Steelers were at the top of the world after a big Super Bowl win this year last minute. As a favorite to exit out of the AFC once more, in spite of the reappearance of the Patriots), the Steelers were sitting in good position before the start of the season.

The offense in Pittsburgh seems as good as ever. Backing up Willie Parker are two strong running backs Mewelde Moore and player sophomore Rashard Mendenhall, and Ben Roethlisberger came another successful season as the team field marshal.Of course, then was defense team la.El iron curtain, dangerous and more efficient defensive unit in the NFL.

The Steelers expects strong during the opening of the season, with a solid victory over the Tennessee Titans. Both defensive units highlighted during this game, but Pittsburgh was only slightly more strong, winning the game by a few points and start its season on a high note.

During this game, veteran and supporter of Pro Bowl Troy Polamalu went down with an injury to him sidelined will leave an estimated 3-6 weeks.This is a blow to the Steelers and perhaps over a blow that anticipate anyone.

Unfortunately, the Steelers were discussed some adversity during this juego.Troy Polamalu, one of the strongest team supporters (and one of the best defenders in the League) was wounded during the game, and is expected to lose several weeks (many as six) with this injury.The Steelers will definitely feel your loss and have already felt it.

A disappointing week two losses bears Chicago, the Pittsburgh Steelers seemed the weaker than waiting in years. no forced fumbles, sacks or integers, the team was stepped on by Bears.

They can the Steelers bounce this loss? week 3 is expected.

Is this one of the best rookie classes of all time? I can't say for sure, but I know this class of rookies definitely has the most Fantasy Football value that I can remember in a long time. We have a QB who is playing like a seasoned veteran, a running back who is #1 runner right now for fantasy, and a receiver who is 7th in the league in receptions. I will list some of the impact rookies and their fantasy value. The overall draft choice will be in parentheses.

QUATERTBACK:

Matt Ryan (3)- He has to be the leading candidate for R.O.Y. Atlanta drafted him with the third overall pick and he has been better than advertised. The best part is that because of him, no one thinks about Mike Vick anymore. After week 10, he is the eleventh overall QB for standard fantasy scoring. He would make a GREAT backup and I would not be hesitant to make him my starter, if needed. He has some very nice weapons with Turner and Roddy White and I look for him to continue to progress all season. Ryan is going to be a future stud.

Joe Flacco (18)- What a pleasant surprise he has been for Baltimore. A lot or Ravens players wanted Troy Smith to be the starter on opening day, but Baltimore went with the rookie. The Ravens actually traded up on draft day to take Flacco with the 18th overall pick, out of Delaware. They obviously saw something that they liked. And they have to be happy with the results so far. With Flacco at QB, Baltimore actually has a vertical passing game which they haven't had in years. (ever?) He is making nice decisions and is doing more than just managing the game. Derrick Mason is clearly benefiting from this and so with M. Clayton. Flacco is currently the 15th overall QB and is available on most waiver wires right now. Pick him for depth.

RUNNING BACK:

Matt Forte (44)- Forte is the # 1 running back in standard PPR scoring. The Bears got themselves a keeper in Forte. He was most likely drafted in the 6th round or later in fantasy football leagues. So, anyone who is lucky enough to own him got an absolute steal. He also has a great strength of schedule the rest of the way. So continue to start him in confidence. The Bears will continue to get him the rock. I would list him as a close 2nd to Ryan for R.O.Y.

Chris Johnson (24)- He and LenDale White have been a dynamic duo for Tennessee. Johnson is so explosive and can take it to the house at any time. Even though he is in a time share, Johnson is still the 7th overall running back for fantasy. It does seem like he can be a future superstar. The only question mark with him is if he can hold up being an every down back. That remains to be seen. But he will remain very solid for the remainder of this season based on the combination that Tennessee loves to run the ball and the high upside that he brings every week.

Steve Slayton (89)- Slayton was drafted with the 89th overall pick out of West Virginia. In most fantasy leagues, he was either undrafted or went very, very late. Both the Texans and whoever drafted him for fantasy, got great value. He was more than likely drafted as your 4th or 5th running back, so you should have great depth. Hopefully you traded one of your higher, underperforming running backs to upgrade at another position. He is worthy of starting as a RB2 or a great flex option. Slayton will continue to be productive in this potent Texans offense. He is the 14th overall back in PPR leagues. The only question mark with Slayton is if he will be able to hold up for an entire season. He is on the small side. We will see.

Tim Hightower (149)- Anyone who ended up drafting Edgerin James hopefully was smart enough to handcuff him with Hightower. The Cardinals have decided to roll with Hightower now and put Edge on the bench. They won't look back. Hightower has much more burst than Edge and that is what this potent offense needed in a running back. He also runs very hard, which is the reason Arizona decided to make him their goal-line back. Feel free to start him with confidence for the rest of the season. He makes a decent RB2 or a great flex player for most. He is the running back of the future for the Cardinals.

Felix Jones (22)- Dallas went after Jones in the draft and it looks like a wise move. Marion Barber has been the workhorse for the Cowboys, but Jones is a great change of pace back. He also has been very valuable to their return game. Jones looks to be returning from his injury soon, possibly even this week. Dallas could really use his speed. Jones is a must-handcuff if you own Barber and has some nice keeper value also. It looks like he will be a solid back down the road.

Jonathan Stewart (13)- He is another back that is in a serious time-share with Deangelo Williams. He does look to have a nice future though in the NFL. He has some nice speed and looks to be a complete back. Right now, the Panthers seem to be favoring the physical running of Williams more though. Stewart still has nice value though for fantasy. He is more of a fill-in/flex play right now, but that could change quickly if Williams were to stumble or get injured.

Darren McFadden (4), Rashard Mendenhall (23), Ryan Torain (139)- These three backs all have been plagued by injuries. McFadden had 1 good game all season (against the Chiefs) and Torain only played one half of a game all season. Torain did look rather good in that half and looked to be the back of choice for the Broncos. Overall the jury is still out on all 3 of them. I must say that McFadden has looked like somewhat of a bust. He doesn't have much speed and doesn't really look special, like a top 5 pick should. I would rather have most of the backs listed above over McFadden. I was very high on Torain and so were the Denver Broncos. They said that he could have won the starting job in the preseason before he got injured. Then when he comes back, he blew out his knee in the first game. Mendenhall looked good before his season ending surgery, minus his small case of the fumbles.

WIDE RECEIVER:

Eddie Royal (42)- Royal is the 10th overall wide receiver in PPR leagues. He has been clearly benefiting from all of the attention that Brandon Marshall demands, and he has been flourishing. Royal flashes a great combination of speed and good hands. He looks like he has what it takes to be a #1 receiver down the road. Royal went undrafted in a lot of fantasy leagues, or very late. He deserves to be starting for you now. He is a very solid #3 receiver, with the possibility of even more in PPR leagues.

DeSean Jackson (49)- Jackson has blazing speed and playmaking ability that the Eagles were lacking at wide receiver. He was great for them early in the season while the Eagles were minus their 2 top receivers. He continues to be a nice play as McNabb likes to spread the ball around. They also get him involved in reverses and punt returns. Jackson will remain to be a decent # 3 receiver or very good depth.

Donnie Avery (33)- Avery has been a very nice surprise for the Rams. He also is benefiting from the attention that Holt was demanding. It seems that he snuck up on some teams, but they are aware now. Avery has a very nice future in the NFL. He has great speed and is another playmaker. He is a nice fill-in or matchup player for your fantasy team. He can also fill in at the flex position.

If I had a vote for Rookie of the Year; this is how I would rank the top 5 as of right now:
1) Matt Ryan
2) Matt Forte
3) Chris Johnson
4) Joe Flacco
5) Eddie Royal

Honorable Mention: Slayton, Hightower, F. Jones

5. Continuous improvement by Dennis Dixon
Dixon made his second in the NFL against Atlanta startup and his inexperience showed. He threw an interception and almost threw a couple of others. Fortunately, the defence of Falcon couldn't do works. Dixon was too their good times. He released a perfect pass Mike Wallace to a conclusion long, not an easy since Wallace can exceed more shots. Dixon was known as a PIN required at University and hit 18 of 26 passes on this game. Should continue to improve with additional time with the first team offense allowing you more in sync with their receivers.Locate the Titans stack line until DD demonstrates that he can defeat them with his fallecimiento.Él must play better in this game against the Titans in their home.

4. More consistent game from Rashard Mendenhall
Because the Falcons does not believe that Dennis Dixon could beat them with his arm, stacked line and challenged to do so.Due to this Mendenhall was approached several veces.Tal time losses this season will be Mendenhall becomes the runner who thought he would be when is you drafted, but he must avoid all these works of yardage negativo.Si had the winning game against Atlanta, most would probably considered that an average by below-average performance for him to. Mendenhall needs to activate some of these negative yardage in profits for the Steelers to be on the winning end of game side.

3 Backup will have to intensify
Max Starks left the Atlanta game with what thought most was a sprained ankle. This is a lesion that most players and fans have come to realize account can cost the player several games trying to heal. Casey Hampton also left the game with a hamstring injury. If not given adequate time to heal hamstring injury again in the season. Behind these two players on the depth chart are Chris Hoke for Hampton and Jonathan Scott for Stark. These two have to step up and provide quality for the Steelers game win.Hoke must connect the hole and maintain defense yards rushing to abandon great works by Chris Johnson.Scott must maintain defense Titans attacking Dixon, something did well against the Falcons.Si he is not able to do what you need there may be some important displacement sucediendo.Sin offensive line however, prognosis is good for Stark. It can be returned for the next game. Hampton will be a week to another. Backups, in general, needed step up for the Steelers to continue winning.

2. Keep Vince Young in the Pocket
Vince Young is not the most accurate pin in the League. His feet and his running back are their weapons.The Steelers should keep it in your pocket and prevent him from improvising to win this game.The more it produces better chances you have of the Steelers.More gets pocket and used his feet less have the opportunity to the Steelers game.

1 Hold less than 100 yards Chris Johnson
It is no secret in the NFL that Chris Johnson is probably running back Elite League.If you have any questions just remember 2,000 yards club.He is one of the few members of this club.Por therefore also it is no secret to opponents of Titans what their game plan is, run, run, the Steelers ejecutar.Si can stop Chris Johnson their chances of winning this game are very good buenas.La news is that this force Steelers.Busque Johnson to be around 75 yards by the end of the game.

The first Steelers preseason game against the Eagles was on August 8, 2008 at Heinz Field. I have been waiting patiently for this game for what I could see that our rookie draft picks in action. It was satisfied with the Steelers draft, but I now see Mendenhall and Sweed Dixon in action. 1St series for our offense and defense would be good test because the Eagles are good on both sides of the ball.

Big Ben came out and had executed a drive 80 yards of pleasant appearance that ended with a 19-yard td pass to Santonio Holmes. That the first drive had me on the edge of my seat and felt was a regular game! It was great to sell Willie Parker to run the ball again.No I was delighted with defence, allowing the unit McNabb 70 yards for a field goal and later 65 yards for a td.Quiero see our defence shutdown computers, so our game execution can take over games.

I know it is only the first pre-season game but man I'm jacked up on Rashard Mendenhall. To 5 ' 11 224 pounds, is to help soften defenses mack truck. The Steelers could be dangerous with Parker and Mendenall Duo. Limes Sweed also played well and impressed me with its 1st shots by half. With good hands and 6 ' 5, Sweed should be a great impact on the offensive player.With the injury of unfortunte Charlie Batch, the drafting of Dixon in even more importante.Dixon has a good arm and it can run.Like that the Steelers designing some offensive plays where Dixon comes as QB and maybe even wr!

The Steelers won the game and I was generally pleased with our first batch pretemporada.perder game hurts because he is a strong # 2 qb and now we have to bring another veteran QB.

AFC
East: The AFC East, in my opinion, will be the most competitive division in the NFL this year.
WHY? Because...

Dolphins- Miami is coming off of a very frusterating year. Once they lost Ronnie Brown and Chad Pennington, the fans lost hope in Miami. Now remember, three years ago, the Dolphins were one of, if not the worst team in the NFL. They nearly became the first team in NFL history to go 0-16, but they defeated the Baltimore Ravens, who went 5-11 that year, on the last day of the regular season. The following year they went 11-5, and then last year's upset. This year, they have two powerful running backs, a young quarterback that has experience, and now a star wide receiver, which they were missing last year. I don't have any questions about the offense, but the defense I'm not so sure on. We'll see how it plays out.

* Patriots- New England could be one of the best teams in the NFL (again). They have Tom Brady at full health, they have to star wide receivers: Randy Moss and Wes Welker, and their defense is ready for any type of offense. This could lead to, once again, another Super Bowl ring for Tom Brady.

* Jets- The Jets are overrated. Let me remind you who carried the team last year; it wasn't Mark Sanchez, it wasn't Jerricho Cotchery or Braylon Edwards, nor was it Shonn Greene. Thomas Jones was the only reason why the Jets even got close to entering the Super Bowl. He had 14 touchdowns, 1402 yards, and tripled Shonn Greene's stats in almost every category! These are the "amazing" stats that the Jets put up in 2009 (the following are averages): 12.5 points (31st), 237 yards (30th), 147 passing yards (29th), and 89.5 rushing yards 22nd). Unless the offense can turn it around, I don't think that the Jets are going anywhere.

* Bills- Once again, the Bills are on the bottom of the list in the East...and they aren't going to surprise anyone. They will have another great rushing season, but their passing really needs to kick it up. I think they should have taken a quarterback in the first round instead of C.J. Spiller. Trent Edwards just isn't the right guy for the job. A rookie quarterback with a good arm, who doesn't need the ball all of the time. Tim Tebow is a guy that would have fit in.

* Standings after 2010:
x-Patriots: 12-4
x-Miami: 10-7
Jets: 9-7
Bills: 3-14
North: This division will also come down to the last game.
WHY? Because...

* Bengals- The Bengals could be the most powerful teams they have ever had in their franchise history, but they could also be a HUGE upset. Carson Palmer will have three top wide receivers to throw to, Ochocinco, Bryant, and Owens, and they have Cedric Benson coming off probably his best year in his career. Their defense will be a mystery every week, and so will tight end Jermaine Gresham.

* Ravens- The Baltimore Ravens had a great year last year...and their about to have an even better year. Anquan Boldin will help Joe Flacco out a ton. Last year Flacco had one main receiver to go to, Derrick Mason. Todd Heap was the other main target at the start of the season, but it turned out to be a disappointing year. Now with Heap hoping to have an excellent year to add on to his great career stats, Anquan Boldin ready to finally win the big one, and Derrick Mason in one of the last years, I would say they are going for it all.

* Browns- The Browns, sadly, could actually be a good team to watch this year. Jake Delhomme doesn't have a Steve Smith to throw this year, but Mohamed Massaquoi will be a great substitute. Jerome Harrison could be one of the top ten running backs this year, which will open up the passing game. The only thing a Browns fan should be worried about is the defense. Now that Jake Delhomme is helping the offense out, the defense will probably be off of the field more.

* Pittsburgh-Where should I start? Obviously Big-Ben is out for the first four-six weeks, Rashard Mendenhall is coming off of a great season, and they lost Santonio Holmes. Hines Ward should have another good season, and the loss of Santonio Holmes will open up the slots for Mike Wallace and Antwan Randle El. My predictions for the top performers this year are: Roethlisberger- 17 TD, 56.8 Perc., 3467 yds, Mendenhall- 276 ATT, 11 TD, 12,889 yds, Ward- 78 Rec., 5 TD, 879 yds.

* Standings after 2010:
y-Ravens: 12-4
Bengals: 9-7
Steelers: 8-8
Browns: 4-12

South: The AFC South will be a pretty competitive division, again, but I think it will be up to the Colts and the Texans. WHY? Because...

* Colts- The Colts won't be much different then last year. Peyton Manning will have another great year, Reggie Wayne will have over 1,000 yards, Joseph Addai won't get many carries, and Pierre Garcon will have to play a big role if the Colts want to make it to the Super Bowl again. Dallas Clark is healthy, and this could be the year.

* Jaguars- Jacksonville needs a quarterback and wide receivers. David Garrard could make it to the playoffs, but he wouldn't go anywhere. If you want to get to the playoffs in this division, you will have to work. Jones-Drew isn't able to carry the whole team by himself. If they had a good passing game to rely on, there wouldn't be anything to worry about. Mike Sims-Walker isn't enough to complete a wide receiver roster; they need another target to throw to. Aaron Hernandez would have been a great draft pick for the Jags.

* Titans- Again, one running back won't carry the whole team to the playoffs. There just isn't enough talent on this team to go anywhere. The defense could use some work, Vince Young would probably appreciate another receiving target, and Chris Johnson won't be able to run the ball if the passing game doesn't work. I don't see playoffs in the Titans next two years.

* Texans- Houston is a huge contender this year. Matt Schaub has Andre Johnson as his main target, and together, they could get total over 1,500 yards this year. Kevin Walter is an underrated fantasy player. He is the 2nd stringer, and he could 100 to 150 points this year. Arian Foster has taken over the role of running back this year. Steve Slaton worked hard, but didn't quite make it. Their tight end, Owen Daniels is probably going to get five to ten touchdowns, and over 600 yards. If the defense can keep the score under 20 points almost every game, the Texans are going to be a touch team to beat.

* Standings after 2010:
y-Colts: 14-2
x-Texans 11-5
Jaguars 7-9
Titans 6-10

West: The AFC West won't be much of a competitive season. I don't think it will even take the winning team to get over ten wins to get into the playoffs.
WHY? Because...

* Raiders- Oakland does have a better team than last year, but not good enough to get to the playoffs. Jason Campbell has Heyward-Bay and Schilens as main targets. Zach Miller could also be a big one. The defense is terrible and the running backs aren't that good either. The only thing that the Raiders are good for this year is to knock out other teams.

* Chargers- San Diego is going to make the playoffs, there's no question. Philip Rivers could get over 4,000 yards again this season, but without Vincent Jackson, I would say maybe 3,500. Malcolm Floyd is a question mark. He could either do really good or really bad. The defense doesn't look that bad, and Ryan Matthews is going to be a great addition.

* Chiefs- Kansas City has one more year to improve. I don't think they will have a chance this year, but maybe next year. Once these two years are over they are going to lose a lot of their good players. Jamaal Charles won't have much trouble, if Matt Cassel can find Dwayne Bowe and Chris Chambers. The defense isn't the greatest, and that's the main thing that is going to irritate them.

* Broncos- With the mystery of who's starting at quarterback, and the lack of talent at wide receiver, Denver doesn't have much of a chance. McDaniels is trying to use what he can with Knowshon Moreno and Correll Buckhalter, while the defense has just a couple of problems to fix. Eric Decker will probably end up being one of the three starting wide receivers by the end of the year, if he stays healthy.

* Standings after 2010:
x-Chargers 11-5
Broncos- 8-8
Chiefs- 5-11
Raiders- 2-12

In 2007, the New York Giants became SuperBowl champs after beginning the season 0-2. The Giants finished the regular season with a 10-6 record and qualified for the playoffs as a wild card. The Giants punched their ticket to the Superbowl with playoff victories over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Dallas Cowboys, and Green Bay Packers, all on the road.

In the SuperBowl, little brother Eli Manning led the Giants to one of the biggest upsets in SuperBowl history. Tearing himself away from the grasp of several Patriot defenders, Manning completed an unbelievable pass inside the Patriots 20. He then hit Plexico Burris for the winning touchdown in the corner of the end zone with less than a minute to play destroying New England's perfect season.

If the Giants are to repeat as Superbowl champs, they will need to have a better start. Four of the Giants first six games are at home. The difficult stretch of the season will come at the end, when the Giants go on the road for four of their last six games.

Thursday September 4 Washington Redskins @ New York Giants 7 p.m. ET Ticket sale price range ($192-$1,470)

The Giants begin the season against the division rival Redskins. The Redskins finished the 2007 regular season 9-7. The Redskins season ended with a 35-14 wild card playoff loss to the Seattle Seahawks. The Redskins did not have a first round pick in the 2008 NFL Draft. Ticket sale price range ($192-$1,470)

Sunday September 14 New York Giants @ St. Louis Rams 1 p.m. ET Ticket sale price range ($74-$441)

Game 2 should be a cheap win for the Giants. The Rams finished the 2007 regular season 3-13, which is the worst record since the team moved to St. Louis. The Rams selected defensive tackle Chris Long from Virginia Tech University (son of Hall of Famer Howie Long) with the 2nd pick in the 1st round of the 2008 NFL Draft.

Sunday September 21 Cincinnati Bengals @ New York Giants 1 p.m. ET Ticket sale price range ($138-$735)

In week 3, the disorganized Bengals visit Giants Stadium. The Bengals finished the 2007 regular season 7-9, and missed the playoffs. The Bengals players have had lots of problems off the field and star receiver Chad Johnson has asked to be traded. The Bengals selected linebacker Keith Rivers from USC with the 9th pick in the 1st round of the 2008 NFL Draft.

Sunday September 28 Bye Week

Sunday October 5 Seattle Seahawks @ New York Giants 1 p.m. ET Ticket sale price range ($138-$686)

In week 5, the Seattle Seahawks come to town. The Seahawks finished the 2007 regular season 9-7. The Seahawks defeated the Redskins 35-15 in the wild card round, and then lost 42-20 to the Packers on a snowy day in Green Bay. The Seahawks selected defensive end Lawrence Jackson from USC with the 28th pick in the 1st round of the 2008 NFL Draft.

Monday October 13 New York Giants @ Cleveland Browns 8:30 p.m. ET Ticket sale price range ($94-$613)

The Browns can no longer be discounted, as the Giants should have a Monday night showdown with the much improved Browns. The Browns finished the 2007 regular season 10-6, and missed the playoffs. The Browns did not have a first round pick in the 2008 NFL Draft.

Sunday October 19 San Francisco 49ers @ New York Giants 1 p.m. ET Ticket sale price range ($147-$637)

Week 7 should be another cheap win for the Giants. The 49ers finished the 2007 regular season 5-11, and missed the playoffs. The 49ers selected defensive tackle Kentwan Balmer from The University of North Carolina with the 29th pick in the 1st round of the 2008 NFL Draft.

Sunday October 26 New York Giants @ Pittsburgh Steelers 4:15 p.m. ET Ticket sale price range ($127-$826)

Heinz Field is one of the most difficult places in the NFL to win. The Steelers finished the 2007 regular season 10-6. The Steelers season ended with a 31-29 wild card playoff loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars. The Steelers selected running back Rashard Mendenhall from The University of Illinois with the 23rd pick in the 1st round of the 2008 NFL Draft.

Sunday November 2 Dallas Cowboys @ New York Giants 4:15 p.m. ET Ticket sale price range ($216-$1,029)

The hottest ticket of the year will be for game 8 against the Cowboys. The Cowboys finished the 2007 regular season 13-3. The Cowboys season ended with a devastating 21-17 defeat at the hands of the New York Giants. The Cowboys selected running back Felix Jones from Arkansas with the 22nd pick and cornerback Mike Jenkins from South Florida University in the 1st round of the 2008 NFL Draft.

Sunday November 9 New York Giants @ Philadelphia Eagles 8:15 p.m. ET Ticket sale price range ($166-$837)

The Giants buy a Sunday night game against the Eagles. The Eagles finished the 2007 regular season 8-8, and missed the playoffs. The Eagles did not have a first round pick in the 2008 NFL Draft.

Sunday November 16 Baltimore Ravens @ New York Giants 1 p.m. ET Ticket sale price range ($138-$735)

The Giants look to deal a blow to the only team to beat them in a Superbowl, the Baltimore Ravens. The Ravens finished the 2007 regular season 5-11, and missed the playoffs. The Ravens selected quarter back Joe Flacco from The University of Delaware with the 18th pick in the 1st round of the 2008 NFL Draft.

Sunday November 23 New York Giants @ Arizona Cardinals 4:15 p.m. ET Ticket sale price range ($58-$637)

The Giants return to University of Phoenix stadium for the first time since Superbowl XLII to face the Arizona Cardinals. The Cardinals finished the 2007 regular season 8-8, and missed the playoffs. The Ravens selected cornerback Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie from Tennessee State University with the 16th pick in the 1st round of the 2008 NFL Draft.

Sunday November 30 New York Giants @ Washington Redskins 1 p.m. ET Ticket sale price range ($93-$980)

The Giants will try to punch their ticket to an NFC East title with a victory in Washington.

Sunday December 7 Philadelphia Eagles @ New York Giants 1 p.m. ET Ticket sale price range ($147-$735)

Tickets prices are always high when the Eagles come into Giants Stadium.

Sunday December 14 New York Giants @ Dallas Cowboys 8:15 p.m. ET Ticket sale price range ($122-$19,980)

There won't be any cheap tickets for the rematch of last year's playoffs.

Sunday December 21 Carolina Panthers @ New York Giants 1 p.m. ET Ticket sale price range ($113-$735)

The Carolina panthers and star receiver Steve Smith cannot be discounted. The Panthers finished the 2007 regular season 7-9, and missed the playoffs. The Panthers selected running back Jonathan Stewart from The University of Oregon with the 13th pick and offensive tackle Jeff Otah from Pittsburgh in the 1st round of the 2008 NFL Draft.

Sunday December 28 New York Giants @ Minnesota Vikings 1 p.m. ET Ticket sale price range ($35-$324)

The Giants finish the regular season against the Vikings who are hoping the price they paid for receiver Bernard Berian was worth it. The Vikings finished the 2007 regular season 8-8, and missed the playoffs. Vikings did not have a first round pick in the 2008 NFL Draft.

Since the Giants are from New York, fans pay a high price to buy tickets in normal seasons. With their team coming off an exciting Superbowl winning performance, Giants fans can expect New York Giants tickets to be expensive this season. Ticket price ranges above are as of the time this article was written.

Entering training camp each column I read by experts and some semi-stupid sports writers had the line or Steelers as the greatest concern for 2008. Pondered this for a while, and when he was half of a migraine that I decided that I'm simply not buying it.

Loss of Alan pout will influence the game run to a degree, but only for the start of the season. Per week to be Chris Kemoeatu 4 or 5, should be, gel with the rest of the drive. Although pout a huge presence for the ground game never excelled in the game of step and as it is or not that is the direction is carried out the attack of the Steelers on. Sweed drafting of files and Rashard Mendenhall the focus of the offense change squarely on the arm of Ben Roethlisberger.Last year Ben set the record for franchise touchdowns in a single temporada.Creo that it can be repeated or even exceed those numbers with the return of a healthy Marvel Smith.

The season last Marvel Smith played in a limited number of games due to a piece of broken vertebrae rubbing against your spinal chord.Sometimes in season bone fragment would be a dash of nerves and really lose sensation in his right leg and foot to rooms in a Smith momento.Siendo plays in the left tackle position isn't surprise is that totals sack of Ben rose last year. With the return of Marvel should be a lock for these totals go down.

Max Starks says that the most impressive in the kind of hard to believe campamento.Es that Max lineman has never really impressed anyone. If Starks keystrokes to Willie Colón for the right tackle spot makes me wonder if Willie will get a crack at right guard position. Kendall Simmons is there good for what they do not necessarily see losing you your job, simply believe that it will be interesting to see if Mike Tomlin is making drastic changes or try to work with what you have.

The most important acquisition of the Steelers did season low might be Justin Hartwig.Pittsburgh last year had virtually no income halfway and Sean Mahan was the reason.Mahan transition you a call centre and the line as a whole suffered for él.Con Hartwig adding immediately improved the line or to some extent but until you have some of the regular season and begin to move the battery as a single unit is all just hype and theory.

I can hear them talk about it in the NFL in second plano.Su kind of fun to mí.Hacen audio line is a wash, but somehow I am still concerned not.

What is exciting about this team, especially when the fans see NFL Pittsburgh Steelers 2008 team at its 76th T.? This is where your main objective is to overcome and let go of the victory of 10-6-loss record last season 2007 NFL. This is not a bad record, but for their fans, is not good because they wanted the NFL Championships.

In the recently concluded project that gave them the silver lining because they were able to choose: Rashard Mendenhall, running back for the University of Illinois, Limas Sweed, wide receiver for the University of Texas, Bruce Davis, a defensive end or UCLA linebacker; an offensive tackle Tony Hills, quarterback Dennis Dixon; Mike Humpal, linebacker Ryan Mundy, as security of Pittsburgh and the University of Iowa;.

There was a lot of people who were happy, excited to see live online while the NFL Pittsburgh Steelers 2008 team with new media jugadores.Los noticed 2008 selections were more than an offensive, rather than an ofensiva.En line summary, had positive reactions to the project.

Pittsburgh Steelers 2008 NFL Team Schedule

September 1 Sunday from 7: 00 p.m. ET Houston Texans

Sunday 14 September 8: 15 p.m. ET Cleveland Browns

On Sunday 21 of September 4: 15 p.m. ET Philadelphia Eagles

Monday 29 September 8: 30 p.m. this Baltimore Ravens

Sunday Oct 5 8: 15 p.m. ET Jacksonville Jaguars

1: 00 P.m. hour this Sunday October 19 Cincinnati Bengals

New York Giants from 4: 15 pm this Sunday, October 26

Monday November 3 8: 30 p.m. ET Washington Redskins

Sunday Nov 9 4: 15 p.m. This Indianapolis Colts

San Diego Chargers 4: 15 pm this Sunday, November 16

Thursday 20 November 8: 15 p.m. This Cincinnati Bengals

4: 15 Pm this Sunday, November 30, New England Patriots

Sunday December 7 4: 15 p.m. ET Dallas Cowboys

On Sunday 14 of December 1: 00 p.m. ET Baltimore Ravens

1: 00 Pm this Sunday, December 21, Tennessee Titans

Sunday 28 December 1: 00 p.m. ET Cleveland Browns

They have a really great opportunity in fighting for the Championship of the AFC.Realmente have this considering the 2008 veterans, and good players apart from the experience of amateur team, coaches, newly manufactured and skillful jugadores.Los also expect that it collects good participation as they had a good project.

But there is a great challenge that must deal with the Pittsburgh Steelers, and is the difficulties and challenges the best videojuegos.Lo to do here is to make them really prepare and give your best programming in all juegos.Tomar no obstacle, but as a qualifier for the Pittsburgh Steelers game schedules leave 2008.Reloj live online NFL season Championships NFL Pittsburgh Steelers 2008 team.

You might already knowNFL is one of the most watched programs on American television.But do you know top sites view Hymnal games live online on your computer?

A new season is on the horizon, and the battle of yesteryear not be weighed as these mammoths men among themselves pound shaped this year. Who will be grid iron large this year? Takes a massive commitment to play at this level, and some say they are all winners, but there are only 6 points by the League play-off. This article will try to see into the future and predict what 12 teams make the final cut.

The Patriots New England - in. That seems a given these days, but that left five points of leaves and some formidable competition to occupy them. The Jaguars seemed to get better with each game in passing, as did their Quarterback David Gerrard. I would say that they are a lock to the play-offs. Had a monster from the Steelers draft in my opinion, and Ben Rothlisberger not only got its target wide receiver that he would be calling in Sweed of files, but a new weapon out of the backfield in Rashard Mendenhall. Peyton Manning is no stranger to success, and anxious I am sure that one of his little brother. The Colts will be back, if Peyton remains healthy.Porters will also return as Tomlinson is maintained in the last campo.Por, I believe that the Cleveland Browns make an appearance of first post season since 2002.

The giants of Reigning champions of Super Bowl in my opinion will be working as hard as always to return to the post season and achieve the feat. Jerry Jones and company apparently worked as hard as some players in football today outside field to field a winning team this year, and I think it is safe to say that the Cowboys in the mixture shall be January. Seattle I think has another year in them.I think that Adrian Peterson will run the Vikings in a play-off spot now that Brett Favre has rode in the sunset.Saints who were very active this off-season will see their efforts by pagar.Lamentablemente as a Giants fan, I will be sad to see the Eagles took the final play-off inks planas.será a great season though and hats off to all those who put in the effort to achieve success.

The Buzz of Pittsburgh Sports tonight revolves around events in Tennessee. The game had an unusual start to the Steelers. It happened that the Steelers fans have not been accustomed to a kickoff return for a touchdown. Mewelde Moore received the kickoff and Antonio Brown doubled again to receive a delivery. Brown ran the entire team coverage of the kick and burned past the last line of Defense of the uh, the kicker, and was off to the races. Even you can forgive of fanfare, crossing the goal line. The last Steeler to try was Anthony Smith and later received a severe tongue lashing of Dick Lebeau. Something tells me That Hines Ward could have a word of advice for Mr. Brown. This return result to be the only member by the Steelers, but not the only qualification.

Pregame article, "must do 5 things the Steelers to beat Titans", he succeeded the Steelers in celebration of Chris Brown under 100 yards, is low. Early in the game Brown seemed as if it would continue its chain of 100-yard games gathering several yards every game. However, the defence of Steeler had other ideas. Brown found strength several times during the game. In an attempt to Brown tried to cut only to hit the wall brick, also known as James Harrison.He was hard again and the camera you twice trying to shake free trapped the cobwebs. no would be a surprise if we find that he suffered a concussion during the game.

Another key to the game was keep Vince Young in his pocket. This proved to be prophetic, Vince remained in his pocket, most of the day, and did not succeed in providing any spark for the Titans.The one unit that seemed as if it would lead to a score, Troy Polamalu intercepted a young pass in the area of annotation. pull in other Young LaMarr Woodley interception and some balls and Young was replaced early in the fourth quarter on Kerry Collins. Collins did their share of errors with a Bryant McFadden interception and a fumble forced to end all what he did was last minutes to do interesting, but not the difference.

The third key to the game was that they must intensify the Steelers backup. It seems that the defence does not lose a beat with Chris Hoke, starting in the middle. Larry Foote intervened to James Farrior once he was shaken.Jonathan Scott did not provide protection of Max Starks, who carried the Steelers on running game and Rashard Mendenhall for much of the second mitad.Esto might have annoyed the Steeler faithful, but getting to his last injured quarterback would have been a good idea. The attack of the Titans was not moving the ball against the defense of the Steelers, so why not run the ball and the clock. Not to mention the Titans were very generous today and cannot resist to give the ball to the Steelers.

In number 4 key was consistency from Rashard Mendenhall .Mendenhall had the 50 yard run today, but had one 20 yards and he held the 69 yards on 23 carries.Once again, Defense expected execution with Dennis Dixon in QB.The Titans stacked line and really wasn't wrong in the circumstances of 69 yardas.Los Steelers launched in the second half, preferring to hand out Mendenhall eat until the clock.

5 Key number was the continued development of Dennis Dixon.Esto left door early in the second quarter when injured Dixon a knee in a pitch to the left.Charlie Batch came in to replace it and did a great job of delivering to Rashard.

# 18 Trent Williams - Oklahoma

When we talk about the Steelers, talk about Ben Roethlisberger gaining success too and attack by poor execution.Expect that the Steelers to take the best offensive lineman available with your choice XVIII of the proyecto.Roethlisberger vs. field issues has been well documented, so here will pass on those.

The computer must update their line or. The defence will be fine if Polamalu can come back healthy and play throughout the season. The 2009 season showed how important it is for the defence team.Team resigned from Ryan Clark and had brought back Antwaan Randle El, who have never left the Foote debe.Larry also returned and provide very deep LB team. If William Gay resigns with the computer, the defence is set for 2010.

The playmakers offense are set with industrial relations and Rashard Mendenhall group from the regular budget.A backup RB can easily be plugged now is that the computer already has or outside the calle.Santonio Holmes, Hines Ward and Mike Wallace is a great trio of labour relations.Ward should still be a year or two left as Wallace grows in the role of receiver # 2.Heath Miller provides the threat area connecting rod, so they are all together the skill positions.

The only spot left is offensive players line by which the computer can again 'Steeler Football' of running all the tiempo.Podrían have problems to this style of execution, because their WRs are so buenas.Este machine is best suited for a running 50-50, vs passing attack.

Apart from the word "injury", there no other word most feared that the word "platoon" fantasy sports. He was much more common in fantasy baseball outfielders and Closers for many years, but changed the offensive approach in the NFL. We are now seeing this approach that is commonly used in the NFL backfields. The polite way to describe the use of multiple running backs is "running back by Committee". No matter how you term approach, the peloton situations can be killers of fantasy football.

It is absurd to initiate a Marshal field that is not designated full-time Starter unless you are using a computer Quarterback position. Wide receivers, by nature, are treated as committees and can occasionally become a very poor performance. However, we have come to expect from starting running backs to produce on a weekly basis, reason why they usually make up 80% of the players that was drafted in the first two rounds of standard score fantasy football leagues. There are approximately 40% of computers in the League that still uses the old one-back "driver" to bear the burden.These are the running backs who will want to focus on primera.Si you project any of these running backs, don't forget to grab his back-up as a 'wives' injury.

Workhorse:

? Chris Johnson (TENN) - the number 1 pick on average all estándar.CJ leagues has no threat to steal significant scree.

? Adrian Peterson (Minnesota) - another player as the top pick. AP will ever written newbie Toby Gerhart, but which will tend to be erupting final games.

Maurice Jones-Drew (JACK) - MoJo ? proved to be a workhorse pasado.A year repeat this activity this year.

? Rashard Mendenhall (PITT) - Mendenhall showed the Steelers were drafting him is his horse in battle in 2008.Se run again this year and expected to be offensive force.

? Steven Jackson (STL) - nobody embodies the workhorse over Jackson's definition.Your image is displayed next to the word at the Webster dictionary.

? Frank Gore (SF) - the main coup in Gore is that he is injury prone, so make sure you have Glen Coffee should draft Gore.

? Cedric Benson (CIN) - Benson was a machine in 2009.Debido injuries and field problems, he is a risk, so take advantage of Bernard Scott as their wives.

? Ryan Mathews (SD) - read The Mathews Chargers to the workhorse of young returns with duties of Sproles scatback manipulation.

Ryan Grant (GB) - Grant ? had his best season in 2009.The team loves throw the ball, so he should retain the same role.Be sure to grab Brandon Jackson as your backup.

Workhorse with concerns:

? Michael Turner (ATL) - this is dura.Turner was phenomenal in 2008, but many believe that the workload caused their injuries of 2009.Durante his time in the infirmary, the Falcons were found two fill-ins competent, so it would be very surprised to see Turner get lettering early in the season, and if the computer is successful, this approach will continue.

? Ray Rice (balanced) - rice looks as a workhorse back in the second half of the year pasado.Sin however, one must be concerned about losing the caries, especially around the goal line since the Ravens have still Willis McGahee and Le ' Ron McClain.

? Carnell Williams (TB) - Cadillac is hard to place in this group, but has to list since Derrick Ward was a no-factor offensively pasado.Lamentablemente year, the entire offense is a factor-no.

For exit door quickly in 6-2, the Pittsburgh Steelers are could not reach the playoffs, only one deleted from win a Super Bowl sixth season record. While the failure of the injury, undoubtedly played a role in the second half of the Steelers collapse, was the third straight that missed the playoffs after a Super Bowl victory.

A healthy Trojan Polamalu will go a long way towards restoring the defense in his 2008 when the leader of the League, but the offense could fight temprano.Sin quarterback Ben Roethlisberger for up to six games, as he serves a suspension for violating the politics of personal conduct of the NFL, the offense may be required to adopt a more conservative approach.

Ofensa:With Big Ben insults the football, the Steelers averaged 23.0 points per game in 2009 (No. 12 NFL).Roethlisberger was sensational, throwing for 4,328 yards and 26 touchdowns with 12 interceptions, in spite of poor protection.

While Roethlisberger serves its suspension, the Steelers are converted to Bryron Leftwich, Charlie Batch and Dennis Dixon lead ofensa.Los three of these quarterbacks have been brilliant moments, but the Steelers, certainly miss his bold leader in the field.

Super Bowl XLIII will also lost hero Santonio Holmes, who is now with the new Jets York.Su 1,248 receiving yards in the last season will be difficult to replace.

If the Defense form, and there is a good chance that will do it, don't be surprised if you choose grind games with Rashard Mendenhall up Roethlisberger is able to Mike Tomlin. Mendenhall is emerging from a season of 1,108 yards, seven strong touchdown on the ground.

Pouncey Maurkice adding gives a much-needed boost offensive line.

Defensa: Dick LeBeau defense was the cock of the walk in 2008, but Polamalu injury made his unit human appearance in 2009.The Steelers remained hard against the run, allowing only 89.9 yards per game (No. 3 in the NFL), but they were likely on the aire.Pittsburgh allowed 215.4 yards per game (No. 16 NFL), which was a big reason why could not be lower third down field. In fact, the Steelers had classified not.28 in the League on third down efficiency, allowing a 42.3 percent conversion rate.

A healthy Polamalu instantly makes the Steelers defensive unit of top notch.Security of not.1 League (in my opinion) is an absolute animal.He is a fearless tackler with great instinct and large hands.

The facades, James Harrison and LaMarr Woodley will continue to terrorize the opposing quarterbacks.Woodley and Harrison combine to 23.5 sacks in 2009.

The child was the biggest weakness of the Steelers of the last temporada.Mejorará instantly Polamalu initial alignment, but also need to play better at cornerback Taylor.Que Ike opposite position will be to Bryant McFadden, Willie Gay, Joe Burnett and Keenan Lewis, who are all competing for the starting job.

Prediction: 3rd AFC North-if failure of the injury can be avoided, Pittsburgh resurgence as one of the main defensive teams in the NFL. Aun, might not be enough to return to the playoffs, considering the possibility of suspension of Roethlisberger.Él is outside of at least the first four games, and the Steelers play three of the playoffs in the tramo.Y when he again, will he a game or two to settle in no matter how many snapshots gets in the práctica.Va become a race tight with Baltimore, Cincinnati, and suspension of Roethlisberger puts the Steelers in a situation of disadvantage. sure withdraw my NFL 2010 predictions, to see what equipment I need to win the AFC North Division.

Five weeks into the season, there are clears haves and have-nots. That was made especially evident last week, when six of the 14 games played saw the winning teams conquer by at least 19 points. Week 6 of the season should be a bit more competitive, and ultimately a bit more enjoyable for football fans. Something that never lacks for excitement, however, are the 1-Week Frenzies offered by Rotoplay. And once again, we're here to attempt to help you put together the best line-up possible with our player rankings.

Quarterbacks 1

1) Tom Brady (vs. Tennessee): There isn't better match-up this week than Brady vs. the Titans. Tennessee has been miserable against the pass this season; they rank 31st in the NFL in both pass defense and passing touchdowns allowed. In four of the five games Tennessee has played this season, the opposing quarterback has thrown for at least 300 yards, and in three separate games, opposing signal-callers have tossed at least three scores.

2) Aaron Rodgers (vs. Detroit): No team has allowed more passing touchdowns this season than Detroit, who has given up multiple scores through the air in every game this year. Rodgers has his first 300-yard game before the team's bye last week, and has thrown for two touchdowns in two consecutive games.

3) Ben Roethlisberger (vs. Cleveland): Teams haven't put up fantastic passing numbers against the Browns because of how bad Cleveland is against the run. That said, they have still allowed 230 or more passing yards four times. Roethlisberger is playing very well, having completed at least 22 passes in every game this year.

4) Drew Brees (vs. NY Giants): Shockingly, Brees has gone two straight games having thrown for fewer than 200 yards without a touchdown. And it doesn't get any easier for him this week. It's hard not to recommend Brees, but the Giants have only allowed one passer to throw for more than 127 yards.

5) Matt Schaub (@ Cincinnati): Three times this season, Schaub has completed at least 25 passes for 300 or more yards and at least two scores. That doesn't seem likely to be the case this week. The Bengals are solid against the pass, as no opposing quarterback has thrown multiple touchdowns or for 300 yards in a game on them, and they haven't faced stiffs, either. Three of the five teams they've played are in the top-12 in the league in passing offense.

6) Philip Rivers (vs. Denver): The Broncos are currently fifth in the league against the pass, and are tied with Indianapolis for the fewest passing touchdowns given up. It should be noted, however, that in the six times Rivers has faced the Broncos since becoming San Diego's starting quarterback in 2006, he's thrown 12 touchdowns and just three interceptions, and has thrown multiple touchdowns in five of those games.

Quarterbacks 2

1) Kurt Warner (@ Seattle): Warner has only six touchdowns and four interceptions, but he has completed at least 26 passes and thrown for 285 yards three times in four games. Seattle is ninth in the league against the pass, but Warner lit them up last year, throwing for 395 yards in one game against them and four touchdown passes in his other.

2) Donovan McNabb (@ Oakland): McNabb threw for over 260 yards and three scores in what was his first full game of the season last week. Now, he plays his second full contest (hopefully) against the woeful Raiders, who are average, at best, in pass defense.

3) Jay Cutler (@ Atlanta): After his poor start in Week 1, Cutler has thrown for at least two scores in each of his last three contests. Still, though Atlanta is 22nd in the league in pass defense, they've allowed just three passing scores this season, which is third in the league.

4) Carson Palmer (vs. Houston): Houston is 16th in the league against the pass, but those numbers are skewed a bit considering the Texans have faced three teams ranked outside the top-20 in passing offense. Palmer has tossed just two picks in his last three contests, to go with four touchdowns. Still, he's thrown one score or fewer in three of his five games this year.

5) David Garrard (vs. St. Louis): The Rams haven't allowed a 300-yard passer yet this season, so they have that going for them. Still, they're not adept at stopping the pass, so Garrard is in line for a solid week, but is not a great option considering the company he's keeping in this group.

6) Eli Manning (@ New Orleans): Manning faces off against the Saints this week, and three of the four quarterbacks to go up against New Orleans have thrown for 205 yards or fewer with no touchdowns. They're 11th in the NFL in pass defense, but only two teams have allowed fewer passing scores. The Saints also lead the NFL with 10 interceptions and have held opponents' signal-callers to a league-low 51.3 QB Rating.

Quarterbacks 3

1) Joe Flacco (@ Minnesota): Flacco has thrown for a touchdown in each of Baltimore's games this season, and his 22 completions last week were the fourth time in five games he's completed that many throws. The Vikings defense can be thrown on, which was obvious to anyone who saw the Rams move the ball on them. Minnesota is 17th against the pass and 20th in passing scores allowed.

2) Brett Favre (vs. Baltimore): Only Cleveland's pathetic passing attack has failed to post solid passing numbers against the Ravens this season. Favre has thrown at least one touchdown pass in every game this year, and three times has completed at least 23 passes.

3) Matt Ryan (vs. Chicago): The Bears have allowed just four passing touchdowns, which is sixth in the NFL, but they are 20th in the league in passing yards allowed. Ryan had a great day last week, with over 300 passing yards and two scores - the third time in four games he's thrown for multiple touchdowns.

4) Kyle Orton (@ San Diego): Orton has been merely solid all year; he's thrown a touchdown in every game, but threw for over 300 yards for the first time last week and has yet to throw more than two scores in a game and has completed over 20 passes just once. The Chargers are decent against the pass, but less so against the run, so expect Denver to concentrate on running the ball.

5) Jake Delhomme (@ Tampa Bay): The Buccaneers give up big plays left and right, and have allowed more passing scores than all but two teams, but Delhomme is far from trustworthy, and has not thrown for more than 1 touchdown in a game this year.

6) Derek Anderson (@ Pittsburgh): Hilariously - unless you're a Cleveland fan - Anderson completed just two passes last week. Two! Now he faces the Steelers and has pretty much nobody to throw to with Braylon Edwards gone. Do you really want him anywhere near your fantasy team?

Quarterbacks 4

1) Jason Campbell (vs. Kansas City): This is a very good match-up for Campbell, as the Chiefs are 29th in pass defense, and 28th in passing scores allowed. He has shown the ability to put up solid numbers against weak opponents, and should do so again this week.

2) Marc Bulger (@ Jacksonville): Bulger came in towards the end of the game last week and completed all seven of his passes, including one for a score. His match-up this week against the Jaguars' 30th-ranked pass defense is a good one, so if you're looking for a potential sleeper, Bulger may be it.

3) Matt Cassel (@ Washington): Cassel hasn't thrown an interception since Week 2, and he's thrown two touchdowns in each of his last three games. Yet it's important to note that he's thrown for fewer than 130 yards twice this season, and faces the Redskins' third-ranked pass defense this week.

4) Mark Sanchez (vs. Buffalo): Sanchez is an excellent game-manager, but as far as fantasy goes, there are simply too many statistical inadequacies in his game. He's completed fewer than 15 passes three times and has thrown more than one touchdown in a game just once.

5) Kerry Collins (@ New England): Collins was pulled from the Titans' game last week, and though he's starting again this week, he could go at any time, especially if the game turns into a blowout quickly. Use him at your own risk.

6) Trent Edwards (@ NY Jets): Edwards has one touchdown and five interceptions in his last three games, and faces a top-10 pass defense this week. Don't even bother with him.

Running Backs 1

1) Maurice Jones-Drew (vs. St. Louis): MJD did not have a good week against Seattle last Sunday, but that should be rectified this week against the Rams, who are 23rd in the NFL against the run and 26th in rushing scores allowed.

2) Matt Forte (@ Atlanta): Forte has an excellent match-up this week against a Falcons squad that is 24th in the NFL in run defense. He's caught five passes in two separate games this season, and with receptions being three points a pop, he's a good play.

3) DeAngelo Williams (@ Tampa Bay): The Bucs have only allowed three rushing scores because everyone scores against them throwing the ball. They're still 28th in the NFL against the run, and in Week 16 of last season, Williams ran for 186 yards and two scores against them.

4) Adrian Peterson (vs. Baltimore): All Day hasn't run for 100 yards since Week 1, and hasn't broken 70 yards in the last two weeks. Despite his obvious talents, the Ravens are fourth in the league against the run, and just last week let an opponent run for over 100 yards for the first time since 2006. It likely won't happen two weeks in a row.

5) Chris Johnson (@ New England): It's not Johnson's fault that Tennessee is as bad as they are, nor is it his fault that the Titans gave him just nine carries last week. No chance that will happen again, and he should be in store for a good day, even against the Patriots' solid run defense.

6) Steven Jackson (@ Jacksonville): Poor Jackson. He was so excited to finally score his first touchdown last week, he fumbled on a hand-off inside the five-yard line. If you can do without the scores, Jackson is a good play due to the touches he receives - at least 21 carries and multiple receptions in each of his last three games.

Running Backs 2

1) Rashard Mendenhall (vs. Cleveland): The only thing that might slow Mendenhall down this week is if Willie Parker, who is finally healthy, eats into his carries too much. Otherwise, this is a match-up to savor; the Browns are dead last in the NFL against the run, and have allowed more rushing scores than all but one team in the league.

2) Knowshon Moreno (@ San Diego): Moreno is clearly the man in the Denver backfield, with 21 rushes in two of his last three games. He's scored just once this year, but he's also caught six passes in those games, and has an excellent match-up against a San Diego team that is 27th in the NFL in run defense and 26th in rushing scores allowed.

3) Brian Westbrook (@ Oakland): Only two squads have allowed more rushing touchdowns than the Raiders, who are 31st in the league against the run. Westbrook is apparently fully healthy, but he's lost carries to second-round pick LeSean McCoy, and ended up toting the rock just six times last week.

4) Brandon Jacobs (@ New Orleans): Jacobs carried the ball 21 times for 67 yards last week as backfield mate Ahmad Bradshaw tore up the Raiders. Jacobs has a disappointing one touchdown this season, and has caught just four passes, severely hurting his value in this format.

5) Michael Turner (vs. Chicago): The problem with Turner is that he simply doesn't catch the ball - he has just one catch this season. And in this scoring format, that means he'd have to outrush another player in this group by 30 yards for each of their catches.

6) Steve Slaton (@ Cincinnati): Slaton continues to be one of the bigger disappointments in fantasy football this season. He's run for fewer than 40 yards in three of his five games this year, including last week, and now faces a Cincinnati defense that is 12th in the league in run defense and which has allowed just three rushing scores.

Running Backs 3

1) Cedric Benson (vs. Houston): Benson accomplished something last week nobody had done in two full seasons - run for 100 or more yards against the Ravens. This week, he faces Houston, which is 26th in run defense, and dead last in rushing scores allowed.

2) Kevin Smith (@ Green Bay): Green Bay has only allowed two scores on the ground, which is tied for fourth in the league, but they've also had two runners gain at least 100 yards against them in the four games they've played this year. Smith has added value due to the fact he's caught multiple passes in each game this year.

3) Pierre Thomas (vs. NY Giants): Thomas has performed well of late, running for at least 85 yards and a touchdown in two consecutive games. The Giants are excellent against the pass, but can be run on. They're 15th in the NFL in run defense, and only seven teams have allowed more rushing scores than they have.

4) Ryan Grant (vs. Detroit): Though Grant has carried the ball 16 or fewer times in three of his four games this season, his match-up here is a good one. Detroit has allowed a running back to gain at least 75 yards in four of the five games they've played on the year.

5) Clinton Portis (vs. Kansas City): Despite his nice match-up against the Chiefs, Portis is dealing with an ankle malady, and, like Jones, doesn't get enough touches compared to the rest of the players in this group.

6) Thomas Jones (vs. Buffalo): Yes, Jones scored twice last week, but he hasn't carried the ball more than 14 times since Week 1, and he's a non-factor in the passing game, killing his value in this format.

Running Backs 4

1) LaDainian Tomlinson (vs. Denver): The Broncos are sixth in the league in run defense, allowing just 81.0 yards per game (only one time has a runner even topped 70 yards against them), and have let opposing ball carriers cross the goal-line just twice. LT has been struggling to start the year, but he'll have a huge game sooner or later, and in this group of runners, is a good option.

2) Ray Rice (@ Minnesota): Rice's seven receptions last week marked the third game this season in which he's had at least five catches out of the backfield. He usually doesn't see more than 15 carries in a game, but three points per reception means his value is very high.

3) Cadillac Williams (vs. Carolina): Caddy ran the ball 10 times for, and this is not a typo, eight yards last week. It was the third time in five games he's run for fewer than 10 yards. Yes, he can catch the ball out of the backfield, but his history of all or nothing this year makes him a gamble, even against a pillow-soft Panthers run defense.

4) Fred Jackson (@ NY Jets): Marshawn Lynch is back, and he's the No. 1 runner in the Bills' backfield, severely hurting Jackson's fantasy value. Even if Lynch was not around, this is a poor match-up for Jackson.

5) Tim Hightower (@ Seattle): Hightower ran the ball just six times last week, which was the third time in four games he's had fewer than 10 carries in a game. With carries being worth one point in this scoring system, there are better options.

6) Jerome Harrison (@ Pittsburgh): Jamal Lewis returned last week, putting Harrison back into the No. 2 spot in the Cleveland backfield, though Lewis was limited in practice some this week. Still, there's no reason to use Harrison against the Steelers.

Wide Receivers 1

1) Randy Moss (vs. Tennessee): Moss has scored just one touchdown on the year, but this week, against a Titans pass defense that is softer than a 300-pound man's beer belly, he should go off. The Titans have allowed four different 100-yard receivers this season, and have allowed at least one wideout to gain at least 90 yards in every game.

2) Larry Fitzgerald (@ Seattle): Two more touchdowns for Fitzgerald last week gave him four in four games this season. Yet he also had fewer than 80 receiving yards once again, and hasn't broken that mark so far this year. Nonetheless, how do you not like a guy who had games of 151 and 130 receiving yards against the Seahawks last season?

3) Andre Johnson (@ Cincinnati): Though the Bengals have been fairly successful in stopping the pass overall, they have allowed opposing wideouts to come up big against them. Last week was the first time all season they didn't allow a receiver to gain at least 85 yards against them. That's about the least you should expect from Johnson.

4) Steve Smith (NYG) (@ New Orleans): Smith caught a season-low three passes last week, but still picked up 70 yards. It's hard to stay away from Smith, especially in this format due to the fact that receptions are worth so much, but the match-up isn't great, and only one wide receiver has caught more than six passes in a game against the Saints.

5) Anquan Boldin (@ Seattle): Boldin has been solid all season, but has only found the end zone one time - those looks are going to teammate Larry Fitzgerald. He's always going to put up some type of decent numbers, but there are better options in this group.

6) Marques Colston (vs. NY Giants): Only twice in five games has a wideout been the leading receiver in a game against the Giants, and one of the receivers had fewer than 30 yards to lead the team. This match-up is too difficult when you consider the other players in this group.

Wide Receivers 2

1) Steve Smith (CAR) (@ Tampa Bay): Only Jake Delhomme has held Smith back, but history says Smith will overcome to have a very good game this week. In two games against the Buccaneers last season, Smith had at least 110 receiving yards in each.

2) Brandon Marshall (@ San Diego): Marshall has four touchdown catches over his last three games, and though he has yet to gain 100 receiving yards in a contest this year, that's coming soon. In Week 2 of last season, Marshall had 18 catches for 166 yards and a touchdown against the Chargers.

3) Roddy White (vs. Chicago): White announced his presence with aplomb last week after being non-existent for the beginning of the season. He had 210 receiving yards and two touchdowns last week, and though he won't repeat that this week, he does have a decent match-up against the Bears.

4) Vincent Jackson (vs. Denver): Jackson hasn't caught more than six passes in any game, and he's also had a bye week, so the fact that he's sixth in the NFL in receiving yards says a lot. And though Denver is excellent against the pass, three different receivers have gained at least 85 yards on them in a game this year.

5) Chad Ochocinco (vs. Houston): The Ocho had a season-high seven grabs and 94 receiving yards last week, and has a decent match-up this week against the Texans. He's clearly Carson Palmer's No. 1 target, so there's every reason to expect him to have a solid game.

6) Calvin Johnson (@ Green Bay): Johnson is struggling with a knee injury, causing him to miss practice time. He'll likely be a game-time decision, so it's difficult to recommend him knowing that. If you simply must use him, check on Sunday to see if he's playing.

Wide Receivers 3

1) T.J. Houshmandzadeh (vs. Arizona): The Arizona Cardinals have been destroyed through the air, having allowed a wideout to gain at least 100 yards in three of their four games this season, and at least 70 yards in every game. Now that Matt Hasselbeck has returned, Houshmandzadeh will be a force.

2) Wes Welker (vs. Tennessee): Welker missed two games earlier in the season, then labored in his first contest upon his return, but he got back to doing his think last week in the Patriots' loss to Denver. He caught eight passes for 86 yards and one touchdown in the game, and with one of the league's worst pass defenses coming up, he's a great option.

3) Greg Jennings (vs. Detroit): With just five receptions over his last three games, Jennings has not been as involved in the Packers' offense as fantasy enthusiasts have hoped. This very well could be the game he goes off, however, as he has a good match-up with a Detroit team he burned for over 100 yards in both of his games against them last year.

4) Santana Moss (vs. Kansas City): Moss has had two games where he's made big plays, but the only problem here is, he doesn't catch the ball an awful lot. And though he could be in store for another solid contest considering the weak pass defense of the Chiefs, his lack of catches is something that needs to be considered.

5) Santonio Holmes (vs. Cleveland): Holmes has been very average since Week 1, and the Browns have actually held individual receivers down this season. Only one wideout has gotten more than 86 yards in a game against them.

6) DeSean Jackson (@ Oakland): One catch for one yard. That was the extent of Jackson's day last week. It was the second time in four games he had fewer than 10 receiving yards, and that inconsistency is a bit of a worry.

Wide Receivers 4

1) Hines Ward (vs. Cleveland): Ward has caught at least six passes and gained at least 80 yards in four of the Steelers' five games this year, though that's come with only one touchdown. He's a decent play, but Pittsburgh will likely be more focused on running the ball, which could hold Ward down somewhat.

2) Mike Sims-Walker (vs. St. Louis): Sims-Walker didn't play last week because he was suspended for a violation of team rules. The Jaguars subsequently got shut out, and he's back on the field with a very good match-up against a Rams team that is 25th in the league against the pass.

3) Derrick Mason (@ Minnesota): Mason simply will not be shut out like he was last week, and he's a solid option against a Vikings pass defense that can be exploited. Mason is very capable of doing the exploiting this week.

4) Bernard Berrian (vs. Baltimore): The Ravens remain surprisingly below-average against the pass, coming in 26th in the league in that category. Berrian has yet to gain more than 75 receiving yards, but all he needs is one of his trademark big plays to make that happen.

5) Dwayne Bowe (@ Washington): Bowe's touchdown catch last week was his third in four games, something he's accomplished despite not catching more than five passes in any contest. Washington is third in the NFL in pass defense, so this won't be an easy game for him, but he's clearly a threat to score each week.

6) Jerricho Cotchery (vs. Buffalo): Cotchery is dealing with a hamstring injury that has kept him out of practice. He's got a decent match-up if he plays, but there are other, healthier options in this group.

Wide Receivers 5

1) Donald Driver (vs. Detroit): With at least four catches in every game this season, Driver has done a lot to prove that, even at age 34, there's a lot of tread left in his tires. He has a solid match-up this week against Detroit, a team he scored a touchdown against both times Green Bay played them last season.

2) Nate Burleson (vs. Arizona): Burleson has a great match-up against the Cardinals, but he's battling a bit of a back injury, something that has come at the least opportune time. He has only been limited in practice, so he should be able to play, but check before inserting him in your lineup.

3) Kevin Walter (@ Cincinnati): The Bengals have allowed one receiver to be productive against them, but have yet to allow two receivers in the same game do so. Only once, against the Steelers, have they allowed two wideouts to each gain at least 40 yards against them.

4) Eddie Royal (@ San Diego): Royal finally got involved last week after a hugely disappointing start. He caught 10 passes for 90 yards in Denver's win over the Patriots. But with such poor numbers the rest of the season, can we really trust him?

5) Mario Manningham (@ New Orleans): Manningham is a big play waiting to happen, but he doesn't always get a lot of work. For example, over the last two weeks, the Michigan product has caught just three passes, and he's accumulated more than four receptions in one game this season, and has crossed the 60 receiving-yard barrier just once.

6) Terrell Owens (@ NY Jets): There's just no reason to think TO will get it going this week, especially against a team in the Jets that has shut down their opposition's top wideout with regularity.

Tight Ends 1

1) Brent Celek (@ Oakland): Celek has been a big part of the Philly offense, with at least four catches in three of the team's four contests this season. The Raiders have twice allowed more than 45 receiving yards to a tight end in five games this year.

2) Antonio Gates (vs. Denver): Gates is the leading pass-catcher on the Chargers' squad with 24, and he hasn't caught fewer than five passes in any one game this season. The Broncos have generally been excellent against tight ends this season, having held the likes of Jason Witten to just four catches for 31 yards, but Gates is too big a piece of San Diego's offense to be held down.

3) Tony Gonzalez (vs. Chicago): Only once have the Bears really been burned by players at the tight end position, and that was their last game against the Lions. Other than that, no tight end has amassed even 30 receiving yards against them. Still, Gonzalez isn't your typical tight end, is he?

4) Owen Daniels (@ Cincinnati): Daniels could be in line for a solid day on Sunday. He caught eight passes last week, and has caught at least five in three of the Texans' games this season. Cincinnati has allowed at least one tight end to catch five or more passes in three straight games.

5) Chris Cooley (vs. Kansas City): Cooley was completely shut out in the Redskins' last game, but that shouldn't be the case this week. He and the Skins go up against the Chiefs, who have been burned by tight ends twice for over 70 yards and a touchdown, and four times for at least 40 yards.

6) Heath Miller (vs. Cleveland): Miller has caught at least five passes in four of the Steelers' five games this year, and has scored three times in his last two games. The Browns have been good against tight ends, however, with none catching more than four passes or gaining more than 41 yards against them.

Tight Ends 2

1) John Carlson (vs. Arizona): Arizona stinks in pass defense, and that includes trying to cover tight ends. In three of their four games this season, tight ends have amassed at least 60 receiving yards, and twice they've allowed tight ends to catch touchdowns.

2) Kellen Winslow (vs. Carolina): Even with Tampa's below-average passing attack, Winslow holds value as a safety valve for quarterback Josh Johnson. The Panthers have allowed tight ends to beat them often this year, with an opposing player from that position leading their team in receiving yards in three of Carolina's four games.

3) Greg Olsen (@ Atlanta): The Falcons have been decent against tight ends this season, but over their last two games have seen players at that position catch nine passes for 155 yards and one touchdown. Olsen has scored in two straight games, but he had just one catch in the Bears' last contest.

4) Jeremy Shockey (vs. NY Giants): Shockey has caught at least four passes in each of the Saints' first four games, but he's not getting many yards with those receptions. He has yet to get at least 50 receiving yards and hasn't scored since Week 1.

5) Dustin Keller (vs. Buffalo): Keller was not on the receiving end of a single pass from Mark Sanchez last week in the Jets' loss to the Dolphins. He has also caught three or fewer passes in each of his last four games with a high total of 31 yards.

6) Jermichael Finley (vs. Detroit): Finley has a solid match-up and is coming off a career-best of 128 yards while scoring a touchdown, but his inconsistency makes it tough to trust him. He had just one catch for six yards in Week 1, and was completely shut out in Week 3.