The drive for the playoffs is on! Thursday football is going on. It's the best time of the year for fantasy football. Here are the best players to lock in and lock out this week in your drive for a championship.

LOCK IN

QB

Matt Ryan @ SL: Matty Ice is one of the more consistent fantasy quarterbacks. He has the offensive weapons to excel and this week, he'll be good for 2 or more TDs and 250+ yards.

Joe Flacco @ CAR: Flacco is a fringe starter every week. In shallower leagues he might be a backup, but this week he is a must start against a woeful Carolina team.

David Garrard @ CLE: A QB who heaves a hail mary that gets tipped into his receiver's hands for a game winning touchdown has luck on his side, and that's the kind of karma I want for my team.

RB

Cedric Benson vs. BUF: Trust me, I know how disappointing Benson has been. But this week he has an ideal matchup against the Bills who yield more yards and more TDs to fantasy running backs. A frustrated Bengals team will likely revert back to what made them successful last year, which was running the ball.

Fred Jackson @ CIN: Fred Jackson has quietly put together a nice season. In PPR leagues he's even more valuable. With CJ Spiller shelved with an injury, he gets all the touches and will perform well versus a beat up and pedestrian Bengals defensive line.

Reggie Bush vs. SEA: Bush is back, but monitor his health situation through Sunday, just to be sure. If he's back, I expect a solid performance from him. The dynamic running game of the Saints with Bush and Pierre Thomas is something that's been missing from the Saints offense. In PPR leagues, I consider a healthy Reggie Bush a top 20 RB and this week a healthy Reggie Bush is a lock in.

WR

Danny Amendola vs. ATL: Amendola is consistently putting up numbers and is consistently being targeted. He's caught 13 passes in the last two games. He's still out on many waiver wires so if you need the depth or a spot starter, Amendola is a great pick up.

Malcolm Floyd vs. DEN: With the uncertainty of Antonio Gates playing status, Floyd will get the targets from Phillip Rivers. The Chargers are in the top 10 in passing yards, so somebody has to get the ball, and that somebody is Floyd, so lock him in.

Greg Jennings @ MIN: Jennings is usually a must-start, or was at least drafted that way. But he's been inconsistent this season. However, he's got a prime matchup and will get plenty of targets from Aaron Rodgers.

TE

Rob Gronkowski vs. IND: 3 TDs last week opened many people's eyes to the Big Gronkowski. And this dude is the real deal. Aaron Hernandez fell off the board, statistically, and it's now Gronkowski who's getting the red zone targets. I'll take any tight end who gets red zone opportunities.

Jermaine Gresham vs. BUF: The rookie tight end for the Bengals is taking a more active role in all facets of the Bengals offense. Last week he had 9 catches and a touchdown. This week expect more of the same.

LOCK OUT

QB

Matt Schaub vs. NYJ: While the Jets defense is no longer a shutdown squad, this is a very bad matchup for Schaub and the Texans. He'll still find Andre Johnson for a score, but that will be about it.

Ryan Fitzpatrick @ CIN: Yes, Fitzpatrick has had some statistically excellent game, but this Bengals defense is coming off their best performance limiting Peyton Manning to almost no fantasy points. For this reason, you surely have to have better options than the Bills QB.

RB

Darren McFadden @ PIT: Usually a solid starter, McFadden runs into a Steelers defense that just doesn't allow many fantasy points to running backs. You are risking a disappointment if you play McFadden this week.

Brandon Jackson @ MIN: Jackson is a fringe starter at best and this week, versus a stout Vikings run defense, he simply must be locked out.

WR

Randy Moss vs. WAS: Let's make one thing clear, the days of Randy Moss being a WR1 or even a WR2 are over. He's at best a flex starter and until he shows me anything, I'm locking him out.

Steve Smith (car) vs. BAL: Three words: Brian St. Pierre. Yeah, that's  the starting QB this week for the Panthers. The 31-year-old scrap heap quarterback will struggle against a tough defense and therefore I wouldn't start Smith for any reason.

TE

Jason Witten vs. DET: It's a decent matchup, but even when the Cowboys offense exploded last week, Witten had almost no role. It seems he's disappeared in the scheme and I would not feel confident starting him.

Aaron Hernandez vs. IND: He laid a goose egg last week while Gronkowski stole all the love and attention. You simply can't have a starting tight end come up with nothing as you push for the playoffs. For this reason, I lock him out.

Fantasy Football fantasy football advice, who to start, lineup locks

Slowly, but surely, the bye weeks are coming to an end. This week and next week, and then back to a full schedule. So, for this week if you're reaching to replace players who are on bye or who are injured, then here are a couple players to lock in and lock out.

LOCK IN

QB:

Mike Vick vs. IND: The athletically gifted Eagles QB is back this week. Before his rib injury, Vick was putting up ridiculous numbers. Now back under center, expect Vick to pick up where he left off and exploit a Colts defense that is old and ill-prepared for this type of quarterback play.

Joe Flacco vs. MIA: Back off of the bye week, Flacco is going to pick up where he left off and will exploit a Dolphins secondary that can be beat. Flacco is improving game by game and that's why he should be locked in.

RB:

Peyton Hillis vs. NE: Despite the fact that I actually drafted Hillis, I had been putting him on the sell high list and predicting his statistical dropoff every week. Now that's he fresh off a bye week and feeling better, he gets a friendly match up against a Patriots offense that allows a lot of passes to running backs. Hillis WILL score again and WILL have at least 5 catches to go with a solid rushing performance. Lock him in!

Ryan Matthews @ HOU: Now that Ryan Matthews is finally healthy, his stats are starting to improve. He scored a touchdown last week and gets a favorable match up this week versus the Texans who allow 19 points to fantasy running backs. While Sproles and Tolbert still take some touches away from the young Charger RB, Matthews is still a solid play this week.

WR:

Mike Williams (TB) @ ATL: The rookie Tampa wide out has been flat out great. He's the top target in the Tampa passing game and he finally got his first 100-yard receiving game. In short, Williams is a WR2 candidate and someone to lock in.

Dwayne Bowe @ OAK: Nnamde Asomugha is likely out for this game and that makes all the difference. The best thing for a WR is to have a good running game and the Chiefs have a phenomenal running attack, which opens things up for the Chiefs in the passing game. Bowe is finding the end zone with regularity and will continue that trend this week.

TE:

Jason Witten @ Green Bay: I am concerned that the Cowboys will have a difficult time scoring against a much-improved Packers defense, but Witten is Jon Kitna's favorite target and if anyone finds the end zone, it will the Cowboys tight end. Lock in Witten as a top 10 tight end this week

Jacob Tamme vs. PHI: Tamme is the #1 waiver wire pickup this week. People are thinking they're finding the next Dallas Clark. Not hardly, but he is getting targeted heavily by Peyton Manning and that's good enough for me to lock him in this week.

LOCK OUT

QB:

Jon Kitna @ Green Bay: Yes he's put up impressive yards and some TDs, but he's also thrown interceptions left and right. Also, he's going against the Packers who pitched a shut out last week. This is a bad match up and a disaster waiting to happen. Don't even think about it.

Jay Cutler @ BUF: Things are going from bad to worse for the Bears QB. He's been taking a beating in the Chicago media of late and as usual, he's not handling it well. Cutler has no offensive line protection and inconsisten wide receiver play. That's a recipe for a lock out this week.

RB:

BenJarvus Green-Ellis @ CLE: He has scored a TD in six straight games. That sounds like someone who should be started, except that he's playing a rested Browns defense that has only allowed one red zone TD all year. And, then there's always the presence of Danny Woodhead to vulcher touches away. Plus there's talk of Fred Taylor returning a little bit. In short, BJGE might have his best stats of the year behind him and for that, I'm locking him out.

Fred Jackson vs. CHI: Jackson may be a starter and at this point in the season, that's something, but it's not a great match up for Jackson. Plus, CJ Spiller has an increasing role in the Bills high-powered offense. There are better options than Jackson this week.

WR:

Dez Bryant @ GB: See the comments I made about Jon Kitna and apply them to a rookie who will be outmatched and you've got a candidate for a bad game.

Johnny Knox @ BUF: I couldn't put Cutler on the lock out without including his top receiver. The fact is, Buffalo is so bad against the run that their stats against the pass are very good. Knox will get a couple looks and targets, but won't put up good enough stats to warrant a start this week.

TE:

Brent Celek vs. IND: The stats don't lie. With Mike Vick under center, Celek's numbers drop off significantly. So significantly that he should be locked out this week.

Aaron Hernandez @ CLE: Hernadez owners are probably getting a little frustrated. He's getting enough targets to consider starting him every week. He looks like a football player. But he just doesn't score and loses red zone opportunities to fellow rookie Rob Gronkowski. So for that reason, I'm locking Hernandez out.

Fantasy Football who to start, lineup locks

Make or break time for most fantasy owners. Time to separate the contenders from the pretenders. Here's the Week 7 lineup locks.

LOCK IN

QB:

Joe Flacco vs. Buffalo: Flacco has really started to perform lately and has one of the best matchups of the week. Flacco is a top 10 QB this week.

Ben Roethlisberger @ Miami: Big Ben came back in a big way last week versus Cleveland. This week he has a slightly less favorable matchup but can still be counted on for top 10 production this week.

Matt Hasselbeck vs. Arizona: If you need a QB because of injury or bye week, Hasselbeck has a favorable matchup this week. He's not an elite or should not be started over the top 10 guys, but makes a decent spot start this week.

RB:

Ryan Matthews vs. New England: Matthews has underproduced this year, due mostly to injuries. This week, with so many in the Chargers receiving corps hurting, look for them to turn to the rookie in bunches this week. And New England's defense has proven to be quite vulnerable. Expect a lot of ground action and for that reason, lock in Matthews this week.

Chris Ivory vs. Cleveland: The Browns got scorched by Rashard Mendenhall last week and Ivory went off as well last week. With Pierre Thomas still likely out, Ivory could exploit the Browns defense and makes for a nice bye week fill in this week.

Ryan Torain @ Chicago: The Redskins new RB has a favorable matchup this week in the Windy City. Torain has run with authority and looks like he might have a promising future. This week, count on plenty of carries and a score from Torain this week.

WR:

Terrell Owens @ Atlanta: With Chad Ochocinco running his mouth and promising for some scoring, look for him to get the extra attention from the Falcons secondary. TO has been the most reliable Bengal receiver and should be good for 75 yards and a TD.

Dwayne Bowe vs. Jacksonville: Last week Dwayne Bowe made his first real appearance of the season. This week, he's got another favorable matchup and should continue his streak of performing as a must-start WR. Lock him in.

Deion Branch @ San Diego: Branch looked like the Super Bowl MVP player he was for the Patriots, last week. He seems to fit into this system and is getting targeted regularly. Branch should continue to perform this week versus the Chargers as the focus will once again be on Wes Welker.

TE:

Aaron Hernandez @ San Diego: Hernandez has benefitted from Randy Moss' departure. He has sure hands, understands the Patriots offense and Tom Brady looks for him. This week, the Chargers yield lots of yards to opposing tight ends so lock in Hernandez.

Heath Miller @ Miami: Nobody benefits more from Big Ben's return than Miller. The Steeler tight end is one of Roethlisberger's favorite targets.

LOCK OUT

QB:

Carson Palmer @ Atlanta: Until I see more accuracy and more consistency, I'm not counting on Palmer as a starting fantasy QB. He can still put up solid numbers, but he can also cost your team a win. This makes him a lock out candidate.

Tony Romo vs. NYG: Romo is obviously an elite QB, most weeks. But, having seen a couple of Dallas games, I see some areas of concern that the Giants WILL exploit. The Cowboys offensive line is a mess and the Giants lead the NFL in sacks. This is trouble for Romo. Romo is also forcing the ball into coverage which results in turnovers. In short, you may have no choice but to start him, but if you have someone like Matt Cassell or Hasselbeck, then I'd start them over the Cowboys QB this week.

RB:

Ronnie Brown vs. Pittsburgh: Let's put it this way, don't start any running back against the Steelers defense. The stats aren't on your side. Better RBs than Brown have failed against the Steelers and Brown will fail this week.

Brandon Jackson vs. Minnesota: Say what you want about the Vikings, but their run defense is still stout and the Packers backfield is a mess.

WR:

Chad Ochocinco @ Atlanta: Chad has tweeted that he's bringing back the old Chad. Now, if he can bring back the old Carson, I'd be buying it, but until then, I'm locking out Chad.

Johnny Knox vs. Washington: Jay Cutler can't keep his uniform clean and therefore can't find his downfield target. So, for that reason, I'm locking out Knox.

TE:

Chris Cooley @ Chicago: Cooley is banged up and might not start. If he does play, he'll not perform well. There are better options this week.

Antonio Gates vs. New Englad: Gates is seriously banged up. I think he might still play, but wouldn't be surprised if he sits this week. Regardless, I don't like the matchup and think his injury will keep his performance in check. I've seen the Chargers use an injured Gates as a decoy, when he really had no reason playing, and I think that's the case this week.

Fantasy Football who to start, lineup locks

Bye weeks are here. Now is the time for strategy. Now is the time to make the right choices. Here's some players to lock in and lock out of your lineups this week...

LOCK IN

QB
Kyle Orton @ TEN: Orton threw almost 500 yards last week and is averaging well over 300 yards per game thus far. Those are elite statistics. Orton is a Top 10 QB and unless you've got one of the elite few, Orton should be your QB this week versus the Titans.

Bruce Gradkowski vs. HOU: If you have Tony Romo or Brett Favre on bye, then Gradkowski makes for a fantastic play this week. Gradkowski faces one of the worst passing defenses in the league that has yielded 300 yards to every quarterback this season. Gradkowski should be locked in for this week.

Chad Henne vs. NE: Henne opened a lot of eyes in his Monday night performance against the Jets. He threw all over the field on a very good defense. The Patriots young secondary could get exposed again by Henne, who is really coming into his own as a quarterback.

RB
Ladainian Tomlinson @ BUF: "LT" is back. Shonn Greene has been invisible and it's Tomlinson who is making a fantasy impact. This week, he gets the Bills. With a majority of the touches, LT should surpass 100 yards. In PPR leagues, he's even more valuable. Lock in LT in Week 4.

BenJarvus Green-Ellis @ MIA: The Patriots may have found their featured running back. Fred Taylor is likely out again which means a repeat performance of nearly 100 yards and a score from "the law firm" is quite possible. For that reason, you should lock him in as a RB2 or flex play this week.

LeSean McCoy vs. WAS: As Michael Vick has taken the spotlight in Philly, McCoy has put together an elite season thus far. McCoy will expose the Redskins defense and rack up the yards and at least one score.

WR
Chad Ochocinco @ CLE: The Bengals WR promises big things against Cleveland this week. He's scored 12 times in his career against the Browns and he definitely owns Cleveland. I would look for a huge day from Ocho and maybe his cohort TO as well.

Jabar Gaffney @ TEN: As Kyle Orton has gone off, Gaffney has been the beneficiary of the Broncos passing attack. I don't expect that to change this week against a Titan secondary that can be score on. Gaffney finds the end zone again this week. Lock that in.

Malcolm Floyd vs. ARI: Floyd is quickly moving his way up to must start status. If you start 3 WRs in your league, then I can't imagine not using Floyd. Floyd makes for a great WR2 or flex option this week.

TE
Chris Cooley @ PHI: Cooley faces off against his Philly counterpart Brent Celek and this week it's Cooley who is the much better start. McNabb loves throwing to his tight end and will be under pressure and look for his big target. Lock in Cooley in Week 4.

Dustin Keller @ BUF: At this point, consider Keller a top 5 tight end. In PPR leagues, he's a must start and in PPR leagues, he would start over many WR options too. Keller is being targeted early and often and this week must be locked in.

LOCK OUT

QB
Joe Flacco @ PIT: Flacco was exposed as being unable to throw under pressure or on the move. Against blitzburgh, he will be on the ground a lot. I still like Flacco, just not this week, so lock him out.

Vince Young vs. DEN: Don't be fooled by the defensive rankings of Denver. They are ranked 21st against the pass. However, I think Young will hand the ball off a lot to Chris Johnson and the Titans will try to control the clock. So, expect limited stats out of Young and thus, lock him out.

RB
Shonn Greene @ BUF: I don't know what's wrong with Shonn Greene. I don't know if he's in Rex Ryan's doghouse. LT has outperformed him so much that Greene is practically invisible. Despite a great match up, I would not trust Greene with my fantasy squad at this time.

Clinton Portis @ PHI: Portis is still a "starting" running back. And yes, in Week 2 he scored twice. But, his yards per carry and total yardage are miserable. Philly's run defense is top 10. This is a bad combination for Portis this week.

WR
Steve Smith (CAR) vs. NO: Poor Steve Smith. First he hurts his arm playing flag football. Then when he's healed up, he gets a rookie quarterback throwing to him. The Panthers entire offense is anemic and for that reason, I'm shying away from all Panthers.

Michael Crabtree @ ATL: The 49ers fired their offensive coordinator this week; and for good reason. If the new coordinator is going to get the offense going it's going to require a gradual transformation. It starts with getting Vernon Davis more looks. Eventually, Crabtree might get more action and targets, but until this Niners team gets going, I'm locking Crabtree out.

TE
Brent Celek vs. WAS: Michael Vick has been electric, but he's been awful for Celek owners. Celek is staying in to block and Vick is running with the ball instead of dumping it off to Celek. Until these two show a connection, keep Celek on your bench.

Heath Miller vs. BAL: I see this game as a very low scoring effort. I don't see many points or yards being gained by anyone. I definitely think the Ravens will keep Miller silent this week. Keep Miller locked out for now.

Fantasy Football fantasy advice, start em, sit em, lineup locks, week 4

Well Week 1 is in the books and boy what a head scratcher it was. So many stud players flopped and so many undervalued guys overperformed. Here's the list of those to lock in and lock out in Week 2.

LOCK IN

QB:

Mike Vick @ DET: Simply put, Mike Vick looked like someone was controlling him in a game of Madden circa 2004. When he came in for the injured Kevin Kolb he looked young, fresh and FAST. This week he gets the start and gets the Detroit Lions. The Lions d-line is much improved, but they better contain Vick in the pocket or he's going to shred them. Either way, count Vick for top 10 production this week between rushing and passing.

Jay Cutler @ DAL: I have not been shy about my general dislike and disbelief in Cutler. But after he put up 372 passing yards (albeit against Detroit, see above), I cannot justify benching Cutler for any reason. Do not expect the gawdy numbers of last week, but go ahead and expect a couple more TD passes and about 250 yards, even against a good Dallas defense.

Matt Cassel @ CLE: The Chiefs surprised everyone with a win over San Diego last week. They ran the ball well but didn't overly impress in the passing game. I saw a lot that I liked from Romeo Crennel's offensive schemes and I think this a sweet match up for Cassel to finally explode. He can't do that without targeting Dwayne Bowe more (who only had one pass thrown his way). Put 200+ yards and a couple of TDs in the books for Cassel.

RB:

Ahmad Bradshaw @ IND: You did see what Arian Foster did to the Colts didn't you? Combine that with what Bradshaw did to a very good Carolina defense and you have a great match up. Bradshaw is a top 5 RB this week.

Jamaal Charles @ CLE: How good did Charles look on a 50-yard TD run against San Diego on Monday? Enough to show me that he's worth a start this week against a much worse defense in the Cleveland Browns. Lock Charles in with confidence!

Ryan Matthews vs. JAX: Matthews had a decent night against Kansas City in his NFL debut. It wasn't what most of us would've wanted. This will be the week Matthews does more and gets his first TD as a professional. Lock it in!

WR:

Legedu Naane vs. JAX: Naane had double digit targets vs. Kansas City last week. And he rewarded his owners with a nice fantasy box score. In their first home game, and with lots of love from Phillip Rivers, Naane is a very sneaky start this week.

Dwayne Bowe @ CLE: I can't really pick Cassel as a lock without expecting Bowe to rebound. And that's what I'm calling for. Bowe will get more looks and attention and will get his first 100-yard game of the year. That's a lock!

Derrick Mason @ CIN: I would put TJ Houshmanzadeh in this area as well. Whichever of these two is fortunate enough to get to run the middle routes and stay away from the Bengals corners will produce huge fantasy numbers. Simply put, the Bengals linebackers look lost in pass coverage and both Housh and Mason are savvy vets who know how to get open. Look for Joe Flacco to find his dump offs in Mason (who always does well against the Bengals) and Housh.

TE:

Zach Miller vs. STL: Miller is a top 5 tight end this week. I would even think about him in leagues where you can start a tight end in a flex spot. Look for double-digit targets for Miller and a score. Lock!

Todd Heap @ CIN: As mentioned, the Bengals are very vulnerable up the middle where Todd Heap patrols. He looked good against a vicious Jets defense, so he should be able to exploit a much softer Bengals defense. This is the week to lock Heap into your lineup because most other weeks he's not worth it.

LOCK OUT

QB:

Carson Palmer vs. BAL: Palmer looked good from a fantasy perspective last week with a 350-yard, 2-TD performance. Don't expect anywhere close to that this week. This will be a low scoring affair, although I do believe that Palmer, unlike Mark Sanchez should test the Ravens secondary with some passes down the field.

Tom Brady @ NYJ: A bold, bold move for sure. But the Jets defense just won't yield a lot of points. There is talk of Revis being injured and if he doesn't play, then all bets are off. But otherwise, expect very pedestrian numbers from Justin Bieber's stand in.

Derek Anderson @ ATL: The Falcons defense, barring one lapse, looked very impressive. This week a much weaker opponent comes to town. Anderson is NOT a good quarterback. He misses his targets and locks onto his receivers. He will not do much this week.

RB:

Chris Johnson vs. PIT: I own Chris Johnson and I'm not following my own advice here, but it's really because my options aren't better, but if you own CJ and have a Ryan Matthews or a Jamaal Charles and even a Jonathon Stewart, then I lock CJ out. The last time he played the Steelers, he garnered all of 54 yards and no TD. Expect similar numbers from him this week (and I HOPE I'm wrong).

Jahvid Best vs. PHI: Yes Best scored twice last week, making him a good start. But look closer at his numbers. He averaged all of 1.7 yards per carry. You can't always count on those touchdowns and this week the match up is much tougher. So no pay dirt for Best and thus it's Best to lock him out.

Ronnie Brown @ MIN: If Adrian Peterson couldn't garner much against the Williams boys up the middle, there's no way Brown can, especially in the dome with those annoying Viking horns blowing. What can Brown do for you? Not much, so lock him out this week.

WR:

Randy Moss @ NYJ: Again, how can I say Brady shouldn't be started without including his SECOND best receiver. Moss will be stranded on Revis Island and in two trips there last year, Randy had all of 57 total yards (that's for two games). So yeah, remember his week 1 performance? Be ready for a repeat performance. This time, don't get fooled and lock him out.

Mark Clayton @ OAK: The waiver wire pickup du jour is not a good start this week. Kudos on snagging the #1 receiver for the Rams (for what that's worth) and kudos for having someone who was targeted 18 times last week. Clayton may make an appearance on the lock in portion in future weeks, but this week, he gets Nnamdi Asoumgha (aka the second best CB in football). Clayton is not good enough to get out from under that blanket.

Larry Fitzgerald @ ATL: You can see the frustration mounting in Fitzgerald. He misses Kurt Warner, and can you blame him. Fitz is your go-to guy, your WR1, your first receiver taken. Sorry about your luck as until the QB situation shows an improvement, I lsoe a lot of confidence in Fitz.

TE:

Owen Daniels @ WAS: The Texan tight end does not look healthy yet. He has not shown the ability to get open and until he starts showing glimpses of his pre-injury self, lock him out.

Jason Witten vs. CHI: I have Witten in one of my leagues and I AM practicing what I preach here. Witten is on my bench this week after getting hardly any targets and had to stay back and block for the putrid Cowboy o-line. He will be asked to block more this week and that's bad news, unless you're in some bizarre league that rewards you for blocking.

Fantasy Football roster advice, lineup locks, who to start, who to sit

You're likely in the middle of your fantasy playoffs. You can smell that championship. Smack talk is heating up. Make the right choices and pay attention to the match ups this week. Here are some of the better ones:

Lock In QB:
Donovan McNabb vs. San Francisco- The Eagles passing game is exciting to watch. Those who drafted McNabb as a second tier-type of QB are probably still playing now in their playoffs.

Matt Schaub @ St. Louis - Outside of Peyton or Drew, there's nobody else who should start over Schaub, especially this week.

Tony Romo @ New Orleans - This is one of those moves you can overthink. Be careful you don't overthink yourself into starting someone else. December or not, Romo will put up solid numbers this week and don't miss out on those.

Lock Out QB:
Eli Manning @ Washington - The Giants passing game is very inconsistent. There can be worse QBs than Eli, but this week, it will be a low scoring affair versus a solid Washington defense.

Carson Palmer @ San Diego - The Bengals passing game is anemic and until they show they can put up real statistics, I would avoid the Bengal passer.

Ben Roethlisberger vs. Green Bay - If you can't put up stats versus the Cleveland Browns defense, what makes you think you can do anything against the league's #1 defense (which is the Packers).

Lock In RB:
Jamaal Charles vs. Cleveland - The Chiefs RB is playing for a job. He's been showcasing what he can do the last couple weeks, and looks like he could be the featured back for the Chiefs for a while. This week, he'll get a soft defense to run on again.

Steven Jackson vs. Houston - Jackson has put together a nice run in the second half of the season. Impatient owners who dropped him, probably wish they still had him for their playoff push.

Chris Wells @ Detroit - I think the Cardinals will pass on the league's worst passing defense, but they showed last week that they can run ball with the rookie Beanie Wells getting the bulk of the touches. I like Wells to find the end zone this week.

Lock Out RB:
Ryan Grant @ Pittsburgh - Tough call here. Very tough. Grant is coming off a huge week, but on the road versus a still formidable defense, makes me worried. Definitely don't count on the type of performance he put up last week, if you choose to start him.

Matt Forte @ Baltimore - This first round bust will bust out this week. You likely aren't in the playoffs if you have Forte anyway, but if you are, look elsewhere.

Brandon Jacobs @ Washington - Ahmad Bradshaw returned to action in a big way last week and that hurt Jacobs production. This week, he'll cut into Jacobs' time even more and they face a tough Redskin defense.

Lock In WR:
Anquan Boldin @ Detroit - With Larry Fitzgerald injured, I think Boldin will step up and have a big game.

Steve Smith vs. Minnesota - The Panthers WR had a nice game and I think they will have to pass the ball to win.

Pierre Garcon @ Jacksonville - I expect Reggie Wayne to play a limited amount and Garcon will get the extra looks and touches.

Lock Out WR:
Greg Jennings @ Pittsburgh- Jennings has been a major disappointment and has a bad match up again this week. There are certainly better options this week.

Chad Ochocinco @ San Diego- The Bengals just can't find anything in their passing game and until then, I can't recommend the Bengal star WR

Lock In TE:
Brent Celek vs. San Francisco - I benched Celek last week, worried about his thumb. Don't do the same thing this week.

Antonio Gates vs. Cincinnati - The Bengals get torched by opposing team's tight ends.

Lock Out TE:
Jeremy Shockey vs. Dallas - He is an irrelevant tight end at this point.

Heath Miller vs. Green Bay - The Packers have the linebackers to stop Miller and the Steelers offense is anemic at this point anyway..

Fantasy Football lineup locks, fantasy advice, week 15

Lucky #13 in the NFL. Hopefully bad luck doesn't strike you this week. Avoid it by making good choices and taking advantage of the right match ups. Here's this week's locks, and remember to set your lineup, eh, for any Jets or Bills you might have as they play in Canada tonight.

Lock In QB:
Carson Palmer vs. Detroit- Palmer had a very disappointing performance against the Browns, but I expect a much better performance this week against the 32nd ranked pass defense. The Bengals will run the ball a lot, but I think their lack of red zone effeciency will provoke the team enough to pass the ball to where Palmer should get 2 passing TDs and 200+ yards.

Jay Cutler vs. St. Louis - I know, it's scary putting Cutler into a starting lineup as he throws more INTs than TDs. But this week, he'll right the ship and will throw for multiple TDs against a woeful Ram defense.

Brett Favre @ Arizona - I still hear people saying Favre is overrated and not a top tier QB. I reject that notion and this week, he'll show why with a great match up against the Cardinals. Favre will go off for 3 TDs and 200+ yards this week.

Lock Out QB:
Eli Manning vs. Dallas - Manning's foot injury is worrysome and with a resurged Dallas defense, I think Manning will disappoint (again) this week.

Joe Flacco @ Green Bay - The Packers are a top five defense in both rushing and passing and for this reason, I avoid Flacco this week.

Vince Young @ Indianapolis - Count me in the corner of the VY skeptics. He's done pretty good leading the Titans back from the bottom, but I think he's done versus weaker defense. The Colts defense is every bit as good as the offense and VY will see that in a hostile environment this week.

Lock In RB:
Rashard Mendenhall vs. Oakland - The Raiders yield more than 100 rushing yards a game to their opponents and Mendenhall will give them fits. Count on him to hit to the century mark and find the end zone this week.

Ladainian Tomlinson @ Cleveland - You saw what Larry Johnson and Bernard Scott did to the Browns non-existent run defense. Now they also don't have their best run-stopped for the season. So LT is going to go off this week.

Lesean McCoy @ Atlanta - The Eagles can still run the ball, even without Brian Westbrook. The rookie, McCoy, will earn his keep this week and will pay dividends for those owners who start him.

Lock Out RB:
Ryan Grant vs. Baltimore - It is difficult to run on the Ravens and the Pack continues to struggle to run block, so avoid this match up this week.

Pierre Thomas @ Washington - The Redskins are one of the most underrated defenses in the NFL and Thomas will struggle in this game. This one could be a much lower-scoring affair than you might expect.

Tim Hightower/Beanie Wells @ Minnesota - The Vikings are the #2 rated run defense so the Cardinals will try to pass the ball and thus, Hightower and Wells have very little value this week.

Lock In WR:
Sydney Rice vs. Arizona - Lots of passing TDs in this game to be had, get Rice and Harvin in your lineup this week.

Miles Austin @ NY Giants - I locked him out and that motivation made him step up his game again. I'm back on the Miles Austin bandwagon and this week, count on him for 75+ yards and a score.

Michael Crabtree @ Seattle - Rookie wide receivers tend to be inconsistent, and that's certainly been the case for Crabtree. But the Seahawks have yielded at least one TD to every receiver they've faced, and that's good news for Crabtree who will find the end zone this week.

Lock Out WR:
Derrick Mason @ Green Bay- I like Mason's toughness, generally. He just produces, usually. This week, I will slide him to my bench as a very tough match up awaits him at Lambeau Field in December.

Terrell Owens vs. NY Jets- For two straight weeks, he's made my list of lock outs and two straight weeks he's gone off. TO is saying pleasant things about Ryan Fitzpatrick and that might make for a happy TO. But, tonight he gets Darrel Revis who has shut down every WR he has faced, many of which are better than TO, so I say to TO, I'll believe when I see it and I'm leaving him on the bench.

Nate Burleson vs. San Francisco - Burleson is one of those players who is just too inconsistent to be counted, especially down the stretch. Surely you have better options than Nate this week.

Lock In TE:
Dustin Keller vs. Buffalo - The battle in Canada, a chance to show those hockey lovers what real football is. Keller makes for a sneaky play tonight. I like him to find the end zone and put up 50+ yards.

Heath Miller vs. Oakland - With Big Ben back under center, Miller's value goes up this week. Like Keller, he makes for a sneaky start and looks to have 50+ yards and a TD this week.

Lock Out TE:
Jermichael Finley vs. Baltimore - Aarond Rodgers will be under a lot of pressure this week. Finley could benefit from being a dump-off option, but I don't like this match up and would consider other options this week.

Jeremy Shockey @ Washington - I think the Saints will win and they'll score at least 2 TDs, but I don't think this will be the blow out or the offensive explosion most expect and therefore, keep Shockey on your bench.

lineup locks

Thanksgiving week - time to gather with family for a feast and remember what you're most thankful for. In addition to many things, I'm thankful for the readers of Get Sports Info and this column, especially the ones who don't point out when I lock out a player who goes off for a 98-yard TD catch (thanks TO!). This column is based on statistics, expectations and hunches, but is not exact. So, for giving me a pass when I miss some, I am thankful. Now for this week's Thanksgiving-themed lock in and lock outs:

Lock In QB:
Carson Palmer vs. Cleveland- The Browns non-existent defense allowed Matthew Stafford to throw for five TDs. A savvy veteran like Palmer, if his offensive coordinator allows him to, will exploit these bunch of turkeys.

Matt Schaub vs. Indianapolis - Schaub had a "disappointing" day against the Titans "only" throwing for 300 yards and 2 TDs. I'll take another disappointment this week in a game the Texans will have to pass a lot in to stay in the game.

Matt Ryan vs. Tampa Bay - I expect the Falcons to beat the stuffing (get it?) out of the Buccaneers. With no Michael Turner again, the points will come through the air and Matt Ryan has a nice day. I know he has been a little disappointing this year, from a fantasy perspective, but not this week.

Lock Out QB:
Joe Flacco vs. Pittsburgh - Even without Troy Polamalu, the Steelers are a formidable match up for Flacco. His numbers and stats have been waning lately and there's no indication that will change this week. This week you're whacko if you start Flacco.

Ben Roethlisberger @ Baltimore - He's coming off a concussion which is troublesome enough for his owners. He's expected to play, but with a tough, hard-hitting opponent facing him, I think he will struggle to find success this week.

Eli Manning @ Denver - If the Giants are going to be successful this week, they will have to run the ball. They're travelling out west, on short notice, and facing a Bronco defense that is both desperate and good against the pass. For this reason, I think the Giants and Eli are due for a letdown.

Lock In RB:
Justin Forsett @ St. Louis - The rookie RB has earned his shot at the starting spot. He had a touchdown and a couple catches last week and gets a weak Rams defense this week.

Ryan Grant @ Detroit - Grant will give you something to cheer for during your Thanksgiving feast as he should exploit the Lions porous defense.

Marion Barber vs. Oak - Barber seems to like playing on Thanksgiving. He's averaged more than 100 yards since joining the Cowboys on Thanksgiving. There is an injury issue with him, so watch it closely. If he doesn't play, Felix Jones makes for a sneaky replacement play.

Lock Out RB:
Beanie Wells @ Tennessee - With Tim Hightower and the Cardinals wide receivers, there's not enough offense to around. I think Wells will disappoint this week.

Michael Bush/Justin Fargas/Darren McFadden @ Dallas - The Raiders might've won a game, but did not do so because of their running game. This week, tomorrow in fact, don't count on any of the Raiders runners to do much. Pass on them as you pass the gravy.

Rashard Mendenhall @ Baltimore - Mendenhall will face a hard-hitting Ravens defense. This game will be a trench fight, and I'd find someone else if you have another option as Mendenhall is looking at numbers somewhere around 50 yards and no score.

Lock In WR:
Donald Driver @ Detroit - The Lions made the Browns passing game and receivers look good. So a savvy veteran like Driver will be as good as whipped topping on a pumpkin pie. Count on him as a WR1 this week.

Sydney Rice vs. Chicago - I don't know what's better for Rice's value - Brett Favre or Percy Harvin. Both players make Rice that much better. Rice is seeing single coverage because of Harvin and Favre knows he can always find Rice open. Count on him for another solid day.

Roddy White vs. Tampa Bay - WHite, like his quarterback, has been a little disappointing. This week he breaks out of his slump like your Uncle Joe will be breaking out of his pants after seconds. White should be good for 100 yards and a touchdown.

Lock Out WR:
Miles Austin vs. Oakland- Oakland managed to shutdown Chad Ochocinco last week as Nnamada Asomugha covered Chad tight. Austin has proven that he can't handle tough coverage and the Cowboys passing game has gone dormant. Perhaps it's too much triptophan, but either way, I bench Austin again this week.

Terrell Owens vs. Miami - He made this list last week, and busted out big. I am still leaving him here as I think this week's match up is tougher and I don't think the Fitzpatrick to Owens connection becomes a trend instead becomes more of a mirage.

Steve Breaston @ Tennessee - A couple things are working against Breaston. One, Boldin is healthy and getting more targets. Two, Kurt Warner is probably going to miss this week's game with a concussion and that means Matt Leinart, which spells trouble for the Cardinals' third WR.

Lock In TE:
Kevin Boss @ Denver - The late Thanksgiving night game will offer you quite a treat, kind of like a plate of cold turkey and pumpkin pie. The Giants have started to again use Boss in the passing game which is leading to their success. I think that trend continues, especially considering the Broncos secondary will be further occupied with Steve Smith and Hakeem Nicks.

Visanthe Shiancoe vs. Chicago - Shiancoe is definitely benefitting from Favre, who loves tight ends. Shiancoe can be counted on as a top 10 TE this week.

Lock Out TE:
Jason Witten vs. Oakland - Witten is questionable this week and might not play. Even if he does, I am concerned about the Cowboys passing game and Witten's lack of production.

Jeremy Shockey vs. New Engalnd - This is going to be an interesting game and presents an interesting match up. The Patriots will gameplan for Shockey and will not let him get loose in the red zone for a score. If Shockey doesn't score, he doesn't bring much other value to your fantasy squad.

Fantasy Football lineup locks

More Thursday night football tonight. Be sure to set your lineup if there are any Panthers or Dolphins on it tonight. I have a couple players from tonight's game, listed below. Here's this week's players to lockin and lockout:

Lock In QB:
Donovan McNabb @ Chicago- Hopefully you started McNabb last week when he went off for 450 yards. I'll jump on that bandwagon this week and ride out his hot streak as I think the Eagles will continue to pass the ball against a less-than-stellar Bears defense.

Matt Schaub vs. Tennessee - Schaub is a top-five QB most of the time and has proven to be so all year. With that being said, I still get questions about whether to start him every week. This week, no matter who your other QB is (outside of Peyton Manning), I put Schaub in as he should exploit the near-bottom ranked Titans secondary.

Carson Palmer @ Oakland - With Cedric Benson likely sitting this game out, I think the Bengals have to work more passing plays into the gameplan. While I like the Raiders secondary, I think if Bob Bratkowski decides to unleash Carson, that he'll put up good enough numbers to consider him a starter.

Lock Out QB:
Joe Flacco vs. Indanapolis - I stated before that I was wacco for Flacco, now I'm saying that Joe Flacco drives me wacco. He couldn't put up good numbers against the Cleveland Browns defense, so now I have no confidence in him doing anything against the Colts defense. I am both fickle and vindictive.

Matt Ryan @ New York Giants - Ryan is certainly a capable quarterback. He has a lot of upside. But this week, I think he'll have his hands full against the Giants, as they will key on the pass with Michael Turner's absence.

Jay Cutler vs. Philadelphia - Cutler is an interception machine. It's frustrating if you own him. So, until they come up with a better offensive gameplan (that should include Matt Forte and shorter passes), I am putting Cutler on my bench, especially if your league deducts points for turnovers.

Lock In RB:
Rashard Mendenhall @ Kansas City - The Steeler running game will be back in form with this sweet match up. Mendenhall should be good for 100 yards and a score.

Ricky Williams @ Carolina - Ronnie Brown is out for the year. This is great news for Ricky Williams owners. Ricky was already a low-end RB2 option with Brown, without him, I would put him in my top ten, especially in tonight's match up. Get him in now.

Reggie Bush @ Tampa Bay - Guess who has scored five touchdowns in the last five weeks? That's right it's Bush. While not an elite running back, Bush should continue his recent upsurge versus the 30th ranked Buccaneer rush defense. Bush also has stepped up his role in the passing game as he has 3 or more passes in at least 7 games this year. In PPR leagues, Bush has even more value.

Lock Out RB:
Marion Barber vs. Washington - Barber has been a major disappointment. He has only rushed for 100 yards once all year and the last four weeks has failed to even rush for 50 yards.

Justin Forsett @ Minnesota - I like Forsett a lot as a nice waiver wire pickup. He's coming off a huge week, but that was against the Cardinals. This week Forsett faces the #2 ranked rushing defense in football. Forsett retains a little more value this week in PPR leagues. As a long-term keeper, I really like him; this week, not so much.

Joseph Addai @ Baltimore - Addai is a low-end RB2 option, but this week he faces the #5 ranked rushing defense. For this week, against the Ravens, I would put Addai on the bench.

Lock In WR:
Calvin Johnson vs. Cleveland - If you are forced to watch the Lions vs. Browns game this Sunday, this might give you something to watch.  There is no one on the Browns' personnel that can cover Megatron. Look for him to be the only fantasy-worthy player in this entire game.

Anquan Boldin @ St. Louis - Boldin returned to action this past week and all he did was catch 8 balls for 105 yards. This week he gets the 25th ranked pass defense, so expect a similar production out of Boldin.

Mike Sims-Walker vs. Buffalo - Sims-Walker has tailed off a little, but can still be counted as a solid WR1 option. This week he gets an underrated Bill defense, but should still find enough gaps to score and rack up 75+ yards.

Lock Out WR:
Miles Austin vs. Washington- Austin has performed as a WR1 for the last couple weeks, and I've had him as a lock-in several times. However, I did not like what I saw from him last week. He is being double covered and does not seem able to break loose from the tighter coverage. This week, the Redskins bring their #1 rated pass defense to Dallas and as such, I think Austin is a risk.

Michael Crabtree @ Green Bay - Crabtree has yet to find the end zone and has yet to put up a 100 yard game. That's to be expected. While he's still being targeted a lot, he faces the 6th ranked Packer secondary this week.

Terrell Owens @ Jacksonville - The Bills have moved Ryan Fitzpatrick back under center, but that move will actually hurt TO even more. I've heard some analysts say the new head coach will help TO, but I'm taking a wait-and-see approach and until then, I'm benching him.

Lock In TE:
Brent Celek @ Chicago - Celek is back to putting up elite numbers. The Eagles are looking more like a passing team again, and as such, Celek should benefit from that.

Greg Olsen vs. Philadelphia - While I have Cutler on the lock out list, I think Olsen is still a viable option at tight end this week.

Lock Out TE:
Dustin Keller @ New England - I don't like this match up at all for anyone on the Jets. I think the Patriots are going to come out mad after their heart-breaking loss to the Colts. I definitely don't think Keller has much value at all this week.

Zach Miller vs. Cincinnati - I usually point out that the Bengals allow a lot of points to tight ends. And I usually point out that Miller is the viable passing option on the Raiders. However, this week, the Raiders are starting a new quarterback. While Bruce Gradkowski can't be any worse than Jamarcus Russell, I think it's a tough match up as the Bengals are highly underrated and I also want to see how Gradkowski looks in the offense before I could endorse Miller again.

Fantasy Football lineup locks

We are halfway through the NFL season and Thursday night football starts this week, so make sure you adjust your line up for tonight as the 49ers play the Bears. I will not include any players from either of those teams this week. Here's this week's list of players to lock in or out for Week 10.

Lock In QB:
Joe Flacco @ Cleveland- If you read my lineup locks every week, you'll see that I love Joe Flacco. I don't always condone starting him every week, but when a player you love faces the Cleveland Browns, you get him in your starting lineup.

Aaron Rodgers vs. Dallas - When I field questions from people in our Fantasy Frenzy, I get asked about the idea of benching Aaron Rodgers. In my mind, I always have Rodgers as a must start. So it made me question why anyone would consider not starting him. In my two big leagues, Rodgers is the top scoring QB in one and third in the other, so I'm putting Rodgers in this week as a lock in and we'll consider him a must start from this point on. Forget his offensive line issues, he's Mr. Consistency.

Brett Favre vs. Detroit - Favre has been so good all year and there's minor talk of a groin injury. No worries as he's had this groin issue for a couple weeks. Favre will exploit the weak Lions offense and will do whatever he wants against them.

Lock Out QB:
Carson Palmer @ Pittsburgh - Palmer has been a nice, consistent scorer this year. This week, I think he will have very little scoring as the battle could be low scoring and will be driven mostly by the running game. So I would explore other options if you have them this week.

Donavan McNabb vs. San Diego - The Chargers are a blitz-heavy defense and their secondary is above average. McNabb has an unimpressive career against the Chargers with 3 TDs and 3 INTs versus them. I don't expect a lot from him this week.

Tony Romo @ Green Bay - Romo is an upper tier QB and you might not have a better option this week, but if you do, this might be the time to bench him. Green Bay gives up less than 200 yards a game passing and the Cowboys might focus on the run.

Lock In RB:
Pierre Thomas @ St. Louis - Thomas is a guy who has been up and down and the Saints have so many offensive weapons that you just don't what you're getting with him. However, the match up is too good to bench ANY Saints this week. The score could be 100-0.

Ricky Williams vs. Tampa Bay - Ricky Williams has quietly put up nice fantasy numbers. With a weak opponent on the schedule, look for Ricky to "smoke" the competition and find the end zone again this week.

Justin Fargas vs. Kansas City - Fargas has been one of the very few high points of the Raiders offense. In between punching on people, head coach Tom Cable praised Fargas' work ethic in practice and said he plans to get more touches to him.

Lock Out RB:
Kevin Smith @ Minnesota - Smith has struggled to find a consistent performance for his fantasy owners this year. He is also banged up a bit. Compile that with a very tough match up and I would explore other options this week.

Ryan Grant vs. Dallas - When I talked about Aaron Rodgers, I said don't be worried about the offensive line woes. Well, that only applied to Rodgers. In the case of Grant, the terrible blocking has significantly hurt Grant's value and until he does something, I would consider him nothing more than a flex play.

Felix Jones @ Green Bay - At the beginning of this year, I would've said Felix Jones had first round RB potential. That's how much I like him. Now, I'd say he's nothing more than a bye week fill in and I would start him only out of desperation at this point. This could all change, but until he flashes that potential again, I would lock him out.

Lock In WR:
Sidney Rice vs. Detroit - If you have Favre has a lock in, you gotta put his favorite target on the lock in list too. Rice is quickly becoming a must start every week.

Nate Burleson @ Arizona - I think this game has the makings of an offensive shootout, and since Burleson leads the Seahawks in targets, it stands to reason that he'll perform as a top 15 WR this week.

Donald Driver vs. Dallas - Rodgers loves him some Donald Driver and the Packer fans love him too. Driver always does well at home and can be counted on for 6-7 catches and 100 yards this week.

Lock Out WR:
Santonio Holmes vs. Cincinnati - In the earlier match up this year against the Bengals, Holmes had one catch for 18 yards. I think Leon Hall and Jonathan Joseph keep Holmes in check. If any Steeler WR goes off, it will be Hines Ward or Heath Miller (see TEs below).

Greg Jennings vs. Dallas - Jennings has been such a disappointment. Drafted as a WR1, he can only be counted as a WR3 at this point.

Santana Moss vs. Denver - Champ Bailey will keep Moss in check, if having Jason Campbell throwing the ball to him doesn't already do that..

Lock In TE:
Heath Miller vs. Cincinnati - Heath Miller is a solid tight end who puts up solid, not spectacular, numbers. This week he gets a team he exploits, who gives up passing plays to tight ends.

Visanthe Shiancoe vs. Detroit - Favre versus a weak defense equals a scoring pass to a tight end.

Lock Out TE:
Fred Davis vs. Denver - With Clinton Portis, I think the Broncos focus heavier on the pass and this will only hurt Davis, who is barely a fantasy factor as it is.

Ben Watson @ Indanapolis - Inconsistent players drive fantasy owners nuts. No one is more inconsistent than Watson who drops passes and can go an entire game with no stats. He might do something, but he's not worth the risk this week in this big AFC showdown.

Fantasy Football lineup locks, who to start