Waiver Wire Watch: Week 5

2. October 2012  - Published by Jimmy Dinsmore

Bye weeks sometimes come at a great time in the NFL, but rarely come at a good time in the fantasy world. For this reason, the waiver wire is your friend - your bye week saviour. And there can be some gems still sitting on your waiver wire, so get to it. Here's who to target on waivers this week:

QB
Matt Hasselbeck
, TEN - Jake Locker is out for Week 5 already, according to several sources, so Hasselbeck steps into a Titans offense that he's comfortable running. It's not a very friendly matchup versus Minnesota, but if you're desperate or a Locker owner, he's worth a shot.

Kevin Kolb, ARIZ - Undrafted and left for dead by many, Kolb may still be sitting there and he's definitely someone to grab now. He's thrown 7 TDs already and rushed for another, for a 2 TD/game average. This week he gets St. Louis in what looks like a friendly matchup.

RB
Rashard Mendenhall
, PIT - If you're in a savvy league, the Steelers RB was likely drafted, but in shallower leagues, it's possible Mendenhall is still there. If so, immediately put a claim in for him. This is an impactful player who is likely to step into a full workload for the Steelers, who desperately need a running game. Acquiring Mendenhall could be like gaining an RB1 at no cost.

Jackie Battle, SD - Let me make it clear, here. I have no interest in Jackie Battle. But I wouldn't be doing my due diligence if I didn't mention the San Diego running back. Battle inexplicably got the start Sunday instead of Ryan Matthews. And he put up less-than-impressive numbers, although he did score a TD. If you're desperate, take a chance on Battle, but right now, I'm steering clear of all Charger running backs at this point, because frankly I have no faith in Norv Turner at this point.

WR
Jeremy Kerley
, NYJ - I can hear it now, "you're recommending picking up a New York Jet receiver?". Yes! Santonio Holmes is out for a while, Dustin Keller is still doubtful. Somebody has to get the targets and Kerley is the likely candidate. Would I start him with confidence? No. But, if you're in a deep league, in desperate position, Kerley could fill a need - if Sanchez can get the ball to him.

Andre Roberts, ARIZ - Last week he caught 2 TDs and racked up 118 yards. Roberts is a legitimate weapon in the Cardinal offense and is now a fringe flex/WR3 starter for most squads. Grab him with confidence.

Brian Hartline, MIA - His performance last week was just ridiculous. He's probably off your wire, but if he's there, grab him now. He's now a must-start in just about every format. He's just getting too many targets to ignore.

TE
Anthony Fasano
, MIA - Fasano is the second-most targeted player on the Dolphins. That doesn't sound like a ringing endorsement, but last week, the Dolphins threw for more than 400 yards. This week, they play the Bengals who historically get torched by tight ends, and who's linebackers look clueless in coverage. Fasano makes a sneaky play this week, and likely resides on your waiver wire. If you're a Jason Witten or Brandon Pettigrew owner and faced with bye weeks, Fasano is a decent option.

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Look Ahead: Tennessee Titans

5. July 2012  - Published by Dan Clasgens

INSIDE THE NUMBERS
Over the past two seasons wide receiver Kenny Britt has missed 17 games due to injury, including 13 last year after suffering an ACL injury. While his durability has been a concern there’s never been a doubt around his talent. Britt has found his way into the end zone 15 times in 31 career games and has averaged over 70 yards per contest during his limited action the past two campaigns. Before going down early in Week 3 in 2011, Britt opened eyes with 14 catches for 271 yards and 3 TD’s during the first two weeks. When healthy, Britt has top 15 fantasy wideout potential.

SCHEDULE
The Titans square off with four playoff teams from 2011 in its first six games of 2012. The bye week doesn’t come to Week 11 which will keep owners from worrying too much about covering the bye week for their Titans’ players on draft night. Tennessee will play six of the 10 teams that allowed the fewest points to fantasy running backs in 2011, including the Texans (No. 2) twice. The tough schedule is even tougher come fantasy playoff time with Houston in Week 13, the Jets in Week 15 and at the Packers in Week 16.

STUD
Chris Johnson
was one of the biggest disappointments in fantasy football for much of 2011. He followed up the NFL lockout by holding out, missing nearly the entire preseason. It resulted in him being out of shape and unprepared. While he did recover to post his fourth straight 1000-yard campaign, Johnson’s touchdown total dipped from 28 total scores the previous two seasons to just four scores a year ago. A strong finish to the year coupled with a strong commitment to the team’s offseason program leave room for optimism entering 2012.

DUD
After scoring five times during an eight-game stretch Damian Williams popped up on fantasy owners radar midway through the 2011 campaign and proved to be a dependable option at times at a WR3 or flex option in deeper leagues. Entering his third season would suggest that he still has some upside. However, with Britt returning from an injury and the team investing a first-round pick in another wideout it’s hard to imagine Williams carrying much fantasy value entering 2012 unless someone else goes down.

SLEEPER
One of favorite sleepers from a year ago, Jared Cook got off to a slow start before a monster finish in 2011. During Weeks 15 and 16, key weeks in most fantasy leagues, Cook rewarded those that exercised patience by grabbing 17 balls for 273 yards and a touchdown.  The talent is there, but for Cook to emerge as a fantasy option he needs to find more consistency. He’s not a bad option for those owners that opt to wait around until the late rounds to worry about a tight end, but he’s far from a proven commodity.

NEW ADDITION
The explosive Kendall Wright can stretch defenses with the best of them and that was something that the Titans’ passing attack was desperately missing when they spent a first-round pick on him in April’s draft. He figures to slide into the slot right out of the gate for the Titans. He’ll need to pick up on the offense quickly to make an immediate impact and will benefit greatly if Britt is completely healthy and Cook can keep defenses honest over the middle. He’s a nice late-round pick in yearly leagues and much more in dynasty formats.

POSITION BATTLE

Veteran Matt Hasselbeck enjoyed a decent first season in the Music City, but many close to the organization favor second-year slinger Jake Locker as the team’s quarterback. Expect Hasselbeck to start the season as the starter, yet it is only a matter of time before the Titans get an extended look at last year’s first-round selection. Locker has even more fantasy appeal when you consider his ability to run the football. Hasselbeck is a risky option even as a backup as he may not be starting by time you need him as a bye-week filler. Locker is worth stashing.

BENCH BUILDER
With so much attention being shined on Britt’s return to health and the arrival of Wright to the team, Nate Washington is likely to fall through the cracks in most fantasy drafts. While he’s not likely to match 2011’s career-high numbers (74 receptions for 1,023 yards and 7 TD’s), owners need to remember that he averaged 44 catches for 628 yards and six TD’s per years during his previous two seasons as a Titan. Even with his targets going down Washington will make for a solid backup WR on nearly any roster.

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Waiver Wire: Week 3

20. September 2011  - Published by Dan Clasgens

All right it’s Tuesday and that means it time to hit the waiver wire. Here’s guys you should look at listed in the order I like them position-by-position.

PICK UP WEEK
RB Roy Helu (WAS)
– The rookie shined when he carried the load for Washington in the second half. I have been big on Tim Hightower all year and remain confident in his place in the Redskins' offense. However, Helu is going to get touches and has immense upside.

QB
Matt Hasselbeck (TEN)
- Big day in Week 2 shows he's still worth a spot
Andy Dalton (CIN) - Showed that he is capable of big days, but temper expectations
Mike Kafka (PHI) - Could be a nice spot start if he gets call vs. NYG
Jason Campbell (OAK) - Job security makes him a backup option in deeper leagues

RB
Dexter McCluster (KC)
- The back to own in KC now, but Chiefs are terrible
DeMarco Murray (DAL) - Could be ready to breakout with Jones banged up
Javon Ringer (TEN) - Titans plan on getting him more invovled in offense
Delone Carter (IND) - The Colts are likely to turn to the future sooner than we thought

WR
Denarius Moore (OAK)
- A sneaky sleeper, Moore is going to be a hot commodity this week.
David Nelson (BUF) - Nelson is flourishing in the slot and has the size to take advantage.
Eric Decker (DEN) - He should put up solid numbers while Broncos' receiving corps hobbled.
Kevin Ogletree (DAL) - With Austin and Bryant hurt, he'll get targets
Danario Alexander (STL) - Has all the tools, but needs to be more consistent.

TE
Scott Chandler (BUF)
- Gets a boost in TD-heavy leagues, but a bench player at best.
Tony Scheffler (DET) - A pair of TD's over two weeks can't be overlooked too much.

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Game Balls: Week 2

20. September 2011  - Published by Jim Humbert

QB Game Ball - Matt Hasselbeck, Tennessee - 30/42, 358 yards, 1 TD, 1 Int
While the Titans running game is still looking to get on track, Hasselbeck is taking it to the air with ease. This week he put up big numbers against a tough Ravens defense to lead Tennesee to their first win of the season. Kenny Britt had another huge game with 9 catches for 135 yards and a touchdown. If Hasselbeck can stay healthy and Chris Johnson finds his groove the Titans should rack up the wins this year.

QB Honorable Mention - Cam Newton, Carolina - 28/46, 432 yards, 1 TD, 3 Int (keeping pace with Tom Brady.)


RB Game Ball - Fred Jackson, Buffalo - 15 carries, 117 yards, 2 TD, 2 catches, 23 yards
The Buffalo Bills are 2 and 0 so far thanks to a high scoring offense. No, really. After pounding the Chiefs last week 41-7 they put up 38 to beat the Raiders on Sunday. Those 79 points lead the NFL. Quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick has gotten off to a great start with 7 touchdown passes in those two games. And the running game has been solid thanks to the man with the quietest name in football - Fred Jackson. The Bills top runner now has 100-yard performances in each of the first two games.

RB Honorable Mention - Matt Forte, Chicago - 10 carries, 49 yards, 10 catches, 117 yards (should probably be listed at WR)


WR Game Ball - Miles Austin, Dallas - 9 catches, 143 yards, 3 TD
The good news for the Cowboys is that they won a game that they probably shouldn't have. (And in dramatic fashion.) The bad news is that after an awesome performance by Austin, he hurt his hamstring and could be out for a few weeks. And after a gutsy performance from Tony Romo, it looks like he has some broken ribs and a punctured lung and may miss time as well. At least it was a great game.

WR Honorable Mention - Eric Decker, Denver - 5 catches, 113 yards, 2 TD (start checking the waiver wire.)


TE Game Ball - Rob Gronkowski, New England - 4 catches, 86 yards, 2 TD
After watching his teammate Aaron Hernandez steal the show in week one, Gronkowski got his due on Sunday against the Chargers. The Tight End duo have combined for 24 catches, 337 receiving yards and 5 touchdowns in the first two games. Unfortunately those joint numbers may start to dwindle as Hernandez may be missing some time with a torn MCL. Either way, Gronkowski has proven he is a big part of a powerful offense.

TE Honorable Mention - Tony Gonzalez, Atlanta - 7 catches, 83 yards, 2 TD (not showing any signs of slowing down.)


THE GAME-USED SOCK AWARD

Stinky Sock Honorable Mention - Matt Cassell, QB, Kansas City - 15/22, 133 yards, 0 TD, 3 Int (and no more Jamal Charles - oof!)

Kerry Collins, QB, Indianapolis - 19/38, 191 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT
One of the hardest things about being a quarterback in the NFL is that when things go bad it is the quarterback that shoulder a lot the blame. The fact that the Colts stink really isn't the fault of Kerry Collins. The defense isn't stopping anyone, there isn't much of a running game and heck, he's only been on the team for a few weeks. But someone needs to take the stinky sock for the horrible performance by the Colts against the Browns on Sunday. If Collins is smart he'll give the nasty smelly sock to the coach or GM or, well, Peyton Manning if he can find him. Good luck Kerry

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Fantasy Impact: Matt Hasselbeck

28. July 2011  - Published by Dan Clasgens

The Tennessee Titans have turned the page on Vince Young officially this offseason by drafting Jake Locker in the first round of the draft and signing veteran Matt Hasselbeck in free agency this week. The signing of the former Seahawk will leave its fair share of fantasy ripples:

MATT HASSELBECK – At 35 he’s far from his prime, but Hasselbeck could still prove to be a nice fantasy backup in nearly any format. With a pass-catching playmaker like Chris Johnson in the backfield he could rack up a ton of fantasy points on 2-yard screen passes. He’s still not a top 15 option, but don’t be afraid to fire a late-round pick on Tennessee’s new starter.

CHRIS JOHNSON
– Aside from the talks of a potential holdout, Johnson gets the biggest boost in the move. Towards the end of last season Johnson struggled to find the open running lanes that make him such a dangerous weapon as the Titans’ passing game was a non-factor. Hasselbeck will keep defenses more honest and allow CJ200K. Already a top three pick in any format, Johnson can once again be considered a potential No. 1 overall pick.

KENNY BRITT – Despite an off-the-field issues fantasy owners have to view Britt’s stock on the rise. Entering the highly-touted third year for a receiver, Britt should build on his 9 TD’s in 12 games from last season if he can stay on the field.

JARED COOK – Tight end is as deep as ever in fantasy football this season, but count on Cook as being one my deep sleepers. He came on late last season and gets a boot with a proven quarterback under center.

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Game Balls: Week 4

3. October 2010  - Published by Jim Humbert

QB Game Ball - Kyle Orton, Denver - 35/50, 341 yards, 2 TD, 1 Int
It's doubtful anyone expected much fro the Broncos this season, but after four games Orton has them moving in the right direction. While the running game has been non-existent, the young QB has been able to sling the ball around to the likes of Eddie Royal and Brandon Llloyd with good success. Denver may be defying the trend of winning games by running the ball and playing good defense, but at least through four weeks, Orton has the team looking pretty good.

QB Honorable Mention - Sam Bradford, St. Louis - 23/41, 289 yards, 2 TD, 1 Int (looking to shake off that 'rookie' status.)


RB Game Ball - LaDainian Tomlinson, NY Jets - 19 carries, 133 yards, 2 TD, 3 catches, 22 yards
Before the season started LT looked to be a good fit for the Jets. He could spell a young RB and be a nice third-down back for a young QB. Well, that idea sure has changed. Tomlinson is not going to match the numbers he put up in his MVP-type seasons, but he sure is showing that he's still a stud. There is certainly plenty left in the tank for the veteran and he may end up being the key to the Jets success throughout the year.

RB Honorable Mention - Peyton Hillis, Browns - 27 carries, 102 yards, 1 TD (back-to-back huge games against tough D's.)


WR Game Ball - Terrell Owens, Bengals - 10 catches, 222 yards, 1 TD
Through the first few games with his new team, T.O. has been rather quiet. Actually most of the talk has been about the bad play from his new QB, Carson Palmer. But the two were certainly on the same page in Clevelnad on Sunday. Of course a win would have been nice.

WR Honorable Mention - Reggie Wayne - 15 catches, 196 yards (yeah, he's still Peyton's man.)


The Game-Used Sock Award

Matt Hasselbeck, QB, Seahawks - 20/36, 191 yards, 1 Int
Not much was expected from Hassebeck and the Seattle offense when the season began. But they came out strong in their first couple of games and certainly turned a few heads. So when looking at the oppurtunity to play the lowly Rams most people would assume the veteran QB would put up some nice numbers. So much for assuming. Blame can be placed on the offensive line and even a weak running game. For that matter, Hasselbeck doesn't really have a 'go-to' guy as he spread the ball around - in desperation - to ten different guys against the Rams. But at some point a veteran quarterback has to take the fall. And he has to wear nasty stinking socks on the plane back to Seattle.

Stinky Sock Honorable Mention - Donovan McNabb, Redskins - 8/19, 125 yards, 1 TD, 1 Int (sure, you beat your old team but are you bragging about those numbers?)

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NFL Injury Report

13. November 2009  - Published by GetSports Desk

• Jason Campbell, Redskins - Campbell left the Redskins Week 9 game twice with injuries. His ankle injury caused him to only practice on Wednesday in a limited capacity. 

• Matt Hasselbeck, Seahawks - Hasslebeck was limited in practice on Wednesday with a host of injuries. The quarterback is just banged up due to poor pass protection. He'll play on Sunday.

• Matthew Stafford, Lions - Stafford was limited in practice on Wednesday and says he is still learning to trust his knee which hasn't completely healed yet. He's expected to play on Sunday.

• Brett Favre, Vikings - Favre was limited in practice on Wednesday with a hip injury. People his age are having hips replaced not playing in the NFL. He's tough and you should expect him to play on Sunday.

• Aaron Rodgers, Packers - Rodgers was limited in practice on Wednesday with foot issues. He's going to play on Sunday.

• DeAngelo Williams, Panthers - Williams is listed as day-to-day with a knee injury. The running back rarely sits out at practice, so keep a close eye on this.

• Clinton Portis, Redskins - Portis is still suffering from a concussion and likely will miss action in Week 10.

• LaDainian Tomlinson, Chargers - Tomlinson missed practice on Wednesday due to a bruised hip. His absence seemed more precautionary than anything. Coaches hope he'll practice today -- as do fantasy owners.

• Ladell Betts, Redskins - Betts was unable to practice on Wednesday due to an ankle injury. Watch him throughout the rest of the week as he needs to be healthy enough to play as Clinton Portis likely will not.

• LenDale White, Titans - White was help out of practice on Wednesday with an illness. He should be good to go on Sunday, but likely won't help your fantasy team as he's seeing fewer carries of late.

• Brian Westbrook, Eagles - Westbrook was help out of practice on Wednesday, likely due to the Eagles practicing inside on turf. Head coach Andy Reid said he'll practice on Thursday.

• Ahmad Bradshaw, Giants - Bradshaw was unable to practice on Wednesday with his foot injury but did do rehab work in the practice area. His status for Week 11 is unknown.

• Brandon Marshall, Broncos - Marshall sat out of practice on Wednesday with a back injury. It is unknown whether or not he'll be able to play on Sunday.

• Michael Clayton, Buccaneers - I've seen injury reports listing Clayton's wrist as an issue and his knee. Be careful with him this week as he missed practice already on Wednesday.

• Lance Moore, Saints - Moore missed practice on Wednesday, which is becoming a habit. His ankle injury raises doubts about his playing time on Sunday.

• Chris Chambers, Chiefs - Chambers was limited in practice after tweaking his foot in last Sunday's game. Watch his progress this week to make sure he can handle football duties on Sunday.

• Roddy White, Falcons - White was limited in practice on Wednesday with a knee injury. He'll likely play on Sunday but is facing a tough matchup like his Week 9 game against the Redskins.

• Steve Breaston, Cardinals - Breaston was limited in practice on Wednesday due to his knee, but will play on Sunday.

• Justin Gage, Titans - Gage missed practice on Wednesday due to a back injury and hasn't been medically cleared as of yet to play in Week 10. If he's unable to go, expect Kenny Britt to see extra action.

• Bernard Berrian, Vikings - Berrian as limited in practice on Wednesday as he's still trying to fully recover from his hamstring injury. He's rested from the Vikings bye week and will play on Sunday.

• Isaac Bruce, 49ers - Mike Singletary has confirmed that Bruce will likely not play on Thursday night. This is good news for Jason Hill, who caught two touchdown passes from Alex Smith in Week 9.

• Antonio Bryant, Buccaneers - Bryant missed practice due to his knee which caused him to marked inactive last week. Until he's proven healthy, he shouldn't be on your fantasy radar.

• Kevin Curtis, Eagles - Curtis has been ruled out again for Week 10 with a knee injury.

• Marques Colston, Saints - Colston was held out of practice on Wednesday but does not have swine flu. He is expected back on Thursday.

• Terrell Owens, Bills - Owens missed practice on Wednesday with an undisclosed injury. If he's unable to play on Sunday, Josh Reed will see extra action.

• Hakeem Nicks, Giants - Nicks missed practice on Wednesday but rode the exercise bike and did a little rehab. His status is unknown for Week 11.

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GSI Mock Draft: Rounds 10-12

11. August 2009  - Published by Dan Clasgens

We have finally completed our GSI Mock Draft. Here are the final few rounds:

RECAPS: Round One | Round Two | Round Three | Round Four | Round Five | Rounds 6-7 | Rounds 8-9

ROUND 10
109. BROERING - D/ST BEARS (CHI)
110. SIMON - TE H. Miller (PIT)
111. DINSMORE - WR T. Ginn Jr (MIA)
112. BRYANT - RB L. McCoy (PHI)
113. WETZEL - WR D. Hixon (NYG)
114. SCHMITT - WR J. Galloway (NE)
115. SIMS - WR M. Clayton (BAL)
116. MURDICO - TE J. Carlson (SEA)
117. ANSELMO - RB S. Greene (NYJ)
118. CLASGENS - RB L. McClain (BAL)
119. FISCHER - QB B. Roethlisberger (PIT)
120. HUMBERT - WR S. Smith (NYG)
ROUND 11
121. HUMBERT - D/ST VIKINGS (MIN)
122. FISCHER - RB R. Williams (MIA)
123. CLASGENS - WR C. Chambers (SD)
124. ANSELMO - WR J. Morgan (SF)
125. MURDICO - D/ST TITANS (TEN)
126. SIMS - D/ST EAGLES (PHI)
127. SCHMITT - D/ST JETS (NYJ)
128. WETZEL - QB M. Cassel (KC)
129. BRYANT - QB M. Hasselbeck (SEA)
130. DINSMORE - QB E. Manning (NYG)
131. SIMON - D/ST PACKERS (GB)
132. BROERING - RB K. Faulk (NE)
ROUND 12
133. BROERING - WR D. Henderson (NO)
134. SIMON - QB T. Edwards (BUF)
135. DINSMORE - D/ST PANTHERS (CAR)
136. BRYANT - D/ST CHARGERS (SD)
137. WETZEL - D/ST REDSKINS (WAS)
138. SCHMITT - QB K. Orton (DEN)
139. SIMS - QB T. Thigpen (KC)
140. MURDICO - QB D. Garrard (JCK)
141. ANSELMO - TE K. Boss (NYG)
142. CLASGENS - RB C. Buckhalter (DEN)
143. FISCHER - WR N. Washington (TEN)
144. HUMBERT - RB E. Graham (TB)

MY PICKS: I was hoping to do better than LeRon McClain, but really he is my RB4 and though he won't be featured as much as he was in '08 you can expect to be the goalline back in Baltimore. I could easily see him putting him 8-10 TD's. Chris Chambers is overvalued by most and I am not that crazy about his outlook for the 2009 season. Still with the 123rd pick in the draft you can do much worse for your WR4. Already having Knowshon Moreno in the fold, I took Correll Buckhalter with the draft's third-to-last pick. He will provide nice insurance and could have value here in Josh McDaniels' system.

BEST VALUE PICKS: Domenik Hixon (chance to be Giants #1 WR); John Carlson (further evidence you can wait on a TE); Matt Hasselbeck (best backup taken in these rounds); Kevin Faulk (will be a factor in NE)

MOST LIKELY TO DISAPPOINT: Joey Galloway (too old to be counted on); Ricky Williams (expect to see a decreased role); Tyler Thigpen (drafting a backup as your backup not a smart move)

FINAL TAKE: The draft is over and the teams look pretty good. Rounds 10-12 are when most fill out their rosters with defenses, kickers (not included in this draft) and deep backups. I prefer to take younger players at this point rather than aging veterans. I skewed away from that a bit, but overall that is the best route to take. This is really the only point of your draft to begin to think about handcuffs.

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Game Time Decisions: Week 14

6. December 2008  - Published by Dan Clasgens

Here are some injuries that fantasy owners will want to keep their eyes on for Week 14:

QUARTERBACKS
Ben Roethlisberger (knee) - no limitations in practice on FRI
Matt Schaub (knee) - probable and expected to start at GB
Matt Hasselbeck (back) - doubtufl; Seneca Wallace likely to start

RUNNING BACKS

Marion Barber (toe) - missed third straight practice; not looking good
Joseph Addai (knee) - added to report on FRI; a game-time decision
Clinton Portis (knee/back) - game-time decision; doesn't play until 8:15
Steven Jackson (quadriceps) - probable; could see increased work
Brian Westbrook (knee, ankle) - expected to start vs. NYG
Marshawn Lynch (back) - ready to face MIA; listed as probable
Ryan Grant (thumb) - should see "normal workload" according to coach
Willis McGahee (illness) - returned to practice FRI
Kevin Smith (shoulder) - limited in practice, but probable vs. MIN
Deuce McAllister (suspension) - will be active, but behind P. Thomas

WIDE RECEIVERS

Anquan Boldin (back) - set to start on SUN vs. STL
Laveranues Coles (thigh) - questionable, yet he should go vs. SF
Derrick Mason (shoulder) - practiced w/out limitations on FRI
Anthony Gonzalez (shoulder) - late addition to injury report
Mark Bradley (calf) - has been ruled out for Week 14
Koren Robinson (knee) - will start vs. NE, but not a great play

TIGHT ENDS
Kellen Winslow (ankle) - ruled out w/high-ankle sprain

DEFENSIVE LINE
Kevin Williams (suspension) - expected to play on SUN vs. DET
Pat Williams (suspension) - expected to play on SUN vs. DET
Gaines Adams (knee) - questionable for MON night vs. CAR
Adewale Ogunleye (shoulder) - status unclear for Week 14
Fred Robbins (shoulder) - Counting on him to return vs. PHI

LINEBACKERS

London Fletcher (foot) - did not practice FRI; questionable
D.J. Williams (groin) - not expected to play vs. KC
Gary Bracket (fibula) - out for Week 14 vs. CIN

DEFENSIVE BACKS
Bob Sanders (knee) - returned to full practice FRI; questionable
Champ Bailey (groin) - not expected to play vs. KC
Cortland Finnegan (hamstring)- expected to play vs. CLE
Nate Clements (thumb) - questionable following minor surgery
Nick Harper (ankle) - returned to limit practice on FRI; should play

LATEST PLAYER NEWS (KFFL.com)

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Fantasy: Thursday Takes

28. November 2008  - Published by Dan Clasgens

Watching football on Thanksgiving was about as fun as getting a root canal. At least you get laughing gas at most dentist offices. I don't know what made me more sleepy eating all the turkey or trying to get into the Seahawks vs. Cowboys match-up on the heels of watching the Lions. I was hoping for a better game in the night cap, but a 28-point blowout by the Eagles was the icing on the cake to a day of crappy football. There were plenty of fantasy takes to digest on this day, but here's my final take:

Titans/Lions
CHRIS JOHNSON
- Continues to prove that he's my favorite rookie running back. He was up to 84 yards and 2 TD's on his first four carries against the Lions and finished with 125 yards on 16 carries. Just think of how big of a day he could have had if he would stayed in there rather than giving way to others in a blowout.

LENDALE WHITE - Coming off a huge disappointing effort in Week 12 in which he lashed out against head coach Jeff Fischer to reporters, White gave fantasy owners that gave him a chance in a favorable match-up plenty to be thankful for. The veteran amssed 125 yards and a pair of TD's on 25 carries.

JUSTIN GAGE - Gage is a bit overhyped right now and Thursday only provided more evidence of this. The Titans are a run-first team and with a big lead Gage disappeared. He had a blow-up game in Week 11, but now has managed just 3 catches for 77 yards over his past two games. He's simply to risky to count on for your line-up.

KEVIN SMITH - Smith has finally emerged as the Lions' primary option out of the backfield and finally appears to be at 100%. The problem is that he still plays for the Lions. He struggled mightily against the Titans, generating just 22 yards on 12 carries. Smith is only worth considering as a RB3 and only in prime match-ups.

CALVIN JOHNSON - Despite playing for the lowly Lions the gifted receiver remains a must-start option. He only managed 5 receptions for 66 yards, but Johnson did get 11 targets and remains one of the most dangerous receivers in the league. He's a must-start option down the stretch.


Cowboys/Seahawks

TONY ROMO - He completed 22-of-34 passes for 331 yards, three touchdowns, and one interception. Romo got great protection and showed that he's capable of producing big numbers despite the splint on his throwing hand. Start him with confidence as you enter the playoff drive.

MARION BARBER - His day was cut short after suffering a dislocated pinkie toe. X-rays came back negative though, so he should be a go next week against Pittsburgh. He finised the day with only 32 yards on 10 carries, but he did manage to score a touchdown.

TERRELL OWENS - T.O. made a couple of great catches and posted solid numbers as he pulled in five balls for 98 yards and a TD. After five straight games in which he failed to eclipsed 40 yards receving, Owens has now tallied 311 yards receiving over his past two games. How can you think about sitting him in the playoffs?

MATT HASSELBECK - The veteran had no time behind Seattle's makeshift offensive line, but he did show that he's nearing 100%. He completed 22-of-38 yards for 287 yards with 0 TD's and 1 INT. He does have some favorable match-ups ahead (NE, @StL, NYJ) so he's worth keeping on your roster as a backup.

MAURICE MORRIS - I am still trying to figure out why a guy coming off a game in which he had 113 total yards and a TD the week before takes a seat the following game. He didn't get much action until the second half, but I have to think that the starting job is going to be his heading down the stretch. Either way he's backup material at best.


Eagles/Cardinals
DONOVAN MCNABB - Left for dead, McNabb lived up to my tabbing him No. 8 on the Cheat Sheet coming into the week. After being benched just four days earlier, McNabb posted stellar numbers vs. the Cards. He completed 27-of-39 passes for 260 yards and four touchdowns.

BRIAN WESTBROOK - Patient owners were finally rewarded on Thanksgiving night as Westbrook busted out with a four-touchdown performance. He finished with 25 touches for 130 total yards, but did sit out some of the game with an ankle injury. He should be good to go in Week 15, but he's still struggling to finish a game heatlhy.

DESEAN JACKSON - The rookie wideout pulled in five balls for 76 yards and a touchdown. After a mid-season slump Jackson now has four straight games with at least four catches and has a good chance to finish the season with over 1000 yards receiving. He's a nice WR3 option to finish out the year.

KURT WARNER - He looked flustered and his team got drilled, but Warner continue to produce for fantasy owners in the loss. He did throw three costly interceptions, but still finished with 235 yards and three TD passes. He did have his 300-yard game streak snapped at five, but did throw for multiple TD's in 9 of his 12 games this year.

TIM HIGHTOWER - It was another disappointing effort by the Cards' rookie runner as he mustered just 7 yards on 7 carries and now has gained just 85 yards on 42 carries over his past four contests. He's nothing more than a flex option at this point and only in favorable match-ups.

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