QB Game Ball - Carson Palmer, Cincinnati - 20/24, 233 yards, 5 TD, 0 INT
While quite a few QBs threw for more yards than Palmer on Sunday, nobody had FIVE TD passes. The Bengals have been winning thanks to an improved defense and running game. And the play from their star QB has been mediocre at best. But if Palmer has more games like he did against the Bears, this could really be a good year in Cincy.

QB Honorable Mention - Tony Romo, Dallas - 21/29, 311, 3 TD (just needed to find a guy open.)

RB Game Ball - Shonn Green, NY Jets - 19 carries, 144 yards, 2 TD
What's the best way for a team with a rookie QB to win a game? Run the football. And that's just what the Jets did versus the Raiders. Thomas Jones had a nice day with 126 yards and a score. But it was the rookie Green who stole the show with a breakout performance. The Jets have assembled a nice young offense with Green, Mark Sanchez and Braylon Edwards. You may be hearing a lot about them for years to come.

RB Honorable Mention - Cedric Benson, Cincinnati - 37 carries, 189 yards, TD (humiliated the team that drafted and later cut him

WR Game Ball - Miles Austin, Dallas - 6 catches, 171 yards, 2 TD
Miles Austin is not a fluke. Two weeks ago against the Chiefs he had 10 catches for 250 yards and scored twice. So, with some quick math, that is two games 16 receptions 421 yards and 4 TDs. He has clearly become the top WR for Romo and the Cowboys.

WR Honorable Mention - Chad Ochocinco, Cincinnati - 10 catches, 118 yards, 2 TD (yes, another Bengal, but 45 points against the Bears earns a few mentions.)

TE Game Ball - Owen Daniels, Houston - 7 catches, 123 yards, 1 TD
Daniels has clearly become one of the top TEs in the game. He leads all TEs with 497 yards and his five scores tie him with Visanthe Shiancoe. And, depending on the injury to Andre Johnson, his workload could increase in the Texans offense.

TE Honorable Mention - Vernon Davis, San Francisco - 7 catches, 93 yards, 3 TD (all the scores came from Alex Smith.)

The Game Used Sock Award - Matt Cassel, Kansas City - 10/25, 97 yards, 1 TD, 3 INT
I am not sure who it was, but someone on one of the pre-game shows this morning picked the Chiefs to upset the Chargers. It really wasn't a bad call for the upset. San Diego has looked shaky this season and it's an intra-division game - anything could happen. Plus, the Chiefs showed some promise with their win against the Redskins last week (okay, they stink too.) But Cassel hasn't been too bad in recent weeks and he hadn't thrown an interception in the last four games. But that all changed against the Chargers. Cassel looked like the guy that most people thought he would look like outside of the Patriots offense. And so he gets to go home wearing his stinky socks. And if you can tell me who it was that picked the Chiefs to win that game, I'll send him one of the socks I wore today.

Stinky Sock Honorable Mention - Derek Anderson, Cleveland - 12/29, 99 yards, 0 TD, 1 INT (gets a sock every week until Quinn takes over - then he gets it.) 

Fantasy Football, NFL carson palmer, tony romo, shonn green, cedric benson, miles austin, chad ochocinco, owen daniels, vernon davis, matt cassel, derek anderson

There are more than a few fantasy owners that were burned by the dud turned out by the Texans' offense yesterday in a home loss to the Jets.

The unit was held without a score just 11 first downs and 183 total yards.

Matt Schaub was under constant pressure and it took its toll on the passing game. He completed just 18 of 33 passes for 181 yards with an interception. Highly-touted receiver Andre Johnson mustered just four catches for 35 yards and tight end Owen Daniels tallied just 44 yards on four receptions. Wide receiver Kevin Walter (hamstring) did not play

As bad as the passing game was, the running game was even worse. Steve Slaton did not live up to RB1 expectations, finishing with just 17 yards on nine carries. He did catch three balls for 35 yards, but fumbled on his longest catch of the day. Chris Brown only had five carries and wasn't much of a factor.

FINAL TAKE: While there is reason for concern after a dismal preseason showing, you shouldn't jump ship on the Texans just yet. The Jets are the NFL's most underrated defense and Rex Ryan just had a good game plan. The schedule isn't the best path to fantasy success, but it is fair to expect improvement in the weeks ahead.

Fantasy Football houston texans, matt schaub, andre johnson, owen daniels, kevin walter

Brian Westbrook, RB, Philadelphia - 33 carries, 131 yards, 1 TD, 6 catches, 72 yards, 1 TD
The Eagles running back has been a big disappointment this season. He's battled injuries and has struggled along with almost all of his teammates. But it looks as if Westbrook is back and, believe it or not, the Eagles are still alive in the NFC. Donovan McNabb still doesn't look great with only 191 passing yards on the day. But the Philly Defense showed up and held the Giants to just one offensive touchdown. The Eagles may need to win out to make the playoffs and with Westbrook playing like he did on Sunday they just might make it.

Matt Schuab, QB, Houston - 28/42, 414 yards, 2 TD, 1 INT
After missing a month with a knee injury Schaub returned to the field big time against the Packers. Kevin Walter got things started for Schaub and the Texans with an early 58 yard touchdown. He finished the day with 146 yards on six catches. Tight End Owen Daniels also caught six balls for 65 yards. Andre Johnson was a bit quiet with just 55 yards from four catches but he did score a late touchdown. At 6 and 7 the Texans are shooting for their first winning season and even if they come up short, they certainly have the nucleus on offense to do hit it next year.

Wes Welker, WR, New England - 12 catches, 134 yards, 2 pt. conversion
The Patriots survived a scare in Seattle thanks in large part to their little receiver. Welker had nearly half of the teams' catches and exactly half of Matt Cassel's passing yards. Cassel completed 26 of 44 passes for 268 yards for those that don't do math. More importantly for the Patriots, he did not throw an interception. While the victory kept New England alive in the playoff race, the team is still looking for a running game and the defense did not look good against a struggling Seattle squad. But winning ugly is still winning.

Roddy White, WR, Atlanta - 10 catches, 164 yards
Not only did White have twice as many catches and yards than any player on either the Falcons or the Saints, Matt Ryan out-threw Drew Brees by 85 yards. So, you'd think the Falcons won, right? Well think again. The Saints picked up a win thanks to the running of Pierre Thomas and Reggie Bush. The two combined for 215 total yards and three touchdowns. So the Falcons threw more than the Saints but the Saints won by running the ball? Go figure.

Chris Johnson, RB, Tennessee - 19 carries, 136 yards, 1 TD, 4 catches, 30 yards
Despite a few mistakes by their quarterback, the Titans won their twelfth game of the season on Sunday. Kerry Collins was picked twice by the Browns, but it did not amount to much. The Titans defense held Cleveland to just three field goals while Collins just handed the ball off to his two backs. Along with Johnson, LenDale White had 99 yards on 24 carries and also scored. Want to do some more math? Awesome running game + solid defense = 12-1 record.

Brandon Marshall, WR, Denver - 11 catches, 91 yards, 2 TD
After losing three straight at home, the Broncos took care of business against the Chiefs. Their running game took another hit as Peyton Hillis left the game with an injury. But the 2008 Denver offense is all about throwing the ball. Jay Cutler completed 32 of 40 passes for 286 yards and the two touchdowns to Marshall. Tony Scheffler finished with 61 yards on five catches. Eddie Royal caught six balls for 42 yards.


THE GAME-USED SOCK AWARD
Tony Romo, QB, Dallas - 19/36, 210 yards, 1 TD, 3 INT
It may seem harsh to give a Dirty Sock Award to a guy facing the league's best defense, on the road and in the cold. And Romo's numbers certainly are not the worst by a quarterback on Sunday. But those guys aren't Romo and don't play for "America's Team." And if you watched any of this game you may recall that there were many passes by Romo that weren't close to anyone. Not tips or slips or flubs. Just passes to nowhere. And if you don't believe me, wait until you hear T.O. talk to reporters this week. Anyway, the Cowboys have more than a few things to work on before they are going to the post-season. And now Romo has to work with a stinky sock. (Maybe he can shove it Owens' mouth for a while - or anywhere else for that matter.

Fantasy Football, NFL brian westbrook, donovan mcnabb, matt schaub, kevin walter, owen daniels, andre johnson, wes welker, matt cassel, roddy white, matt ryan, drew brees, chris johnson, kerry collins, lendale white, brandon marshall, jay cutler, tony scheffler, eddie royal, tony romo

Here is our Line-Up Locks for Week 13. Three games on turkey day and they could all be turkeys, especially the afternoon games. This means that's there good match ups and good reason to watch football closely on Thanksgiving. Here's a quick look at those who has favorable matchups (LOCK IN) and those who deserve a spot on your bench this week (LOCK OUT):

QUARTERBACKS
Lock In:
--Tony Romo vs. Sea
My take: Romo will likely be munching on one of those freakish 8 leg turkeys Fox serves after the game. Romo will have a fantastic statline against a miserable Seahawk team.

--Brett Favre vs. Den
My take: The Jets are hot and are being led by Favre. Champ Bailey might play, but don't expect that to hinder Favre's numbers who will shred a terrible Bronco defense and connect for at least two TDs.

--Matt Ryan @ SD
My take: This just in, the Chargers cannot stop the pass. The strong Falcon's running game does hurt Ryan's statline, a little, but it also means less blitzing and more open receivers. Ryan will throw two TDs this week.

Lock Out:
--Matt Cassell vs. Pit
My take: Cassell has been an absolute stud the last two weeks. He makes for a tough choice of whether to start him or not, but this week it's such a tough match up that Cassell should take a seat on the bench this week.

--Donovan McNabb vs. Ari
My take: The late night Thanksgiving Day game could be a real turkey for the Eagles quarterback. He was benched last week after yet another terrible performance. He's desperate and angry and has an inept offense, that spells trouble.

--Tyler Thigpen @ Oak
My take: Thigpen has been pleasantly surprising, throwing for multiple TDs in multiple games. However, this week he goes against a very underrated Raider defense.


RUNNING BACKS
Lock In:
--Chris Johnson/Lendale White @ Det
My take: Football on Thanksgiving is a great tradition, but Titans versus the Lions is not good football, unless you own the Titan running backs. Lendale White only touched the ball three times in Sunday's loss, and he complained, look for the Titan TD machine to remedy the situation while Johnson will rack up the yardage.

--Ronnie Brown @ StL
My take: The Dolphins are still stinging from the beatdown the Patriots gave them. They will get well and Ronnie Brown will rack up the stats versus the Rams.

--Michael Turner @ SD
My take: Turner is a fantasy stud and has made the surprising Falcons a dangerous team. In this match up, you cannot sit Turner.

Fantasy Football tony romo, brett favre, matt ryan, matt cassell, donovan mcnabb, tyler thigpen, chris johnson, lendale white, ronnie brown, michael turner, reggie bush, willie parker, larry johnson, anquan boldin, larry fitzgerald, roddy white, derrick mason, tj houshmandzadeh, marques colston, plaxico burress, dustin keller, jason witten, dallas clark, kellen winslow, owen daniels, heath miller

Here is our Line-Up Locks for Week 12. Thursday's night match up will not be included. Here's a quick look at those who has favorable matchups (LOCK IN) and those who deserve a spot on your bench this week (LOCK OUT):

QUARTERBACKS
Lock In:
--Matt Cassel @ Mia
My take: 400+ yards last week. You probably had him on your bench. Don't make that mistake this week in a great match up.

--Aaron Rodgers @ NO
My take: This is a very sexy match up for the Packers QB who has been very consistent of late.

--Tony Romo vs. SF
My take: He looked a little rusty last week, but the Cowboys were playing a much better opponent last week. This week Romo and the Boys get healthy quickly versus a vulnerable 49ers defense.

Fantasy Football matt cassel, aaron rodgers, tony romo, jake delhomme, brett favre, chad pennington, steve slaton, warrick dunn, marshawn lynch, thomas jones, maurice jones-drew, tim hightower, dwayne bowe, bernard berrian, donald driver, desean jackson, donnie avery, laveranues coles, owen daniels, chris cooley, greg olsen, lj smith, todd heap, anthony fasano

There were some interesting stroylines from Sunday in the world of fantasy football...

DYNAMIC DUO
Kurt Warner is getting all kinds of hype as a MVP canidate, and rightfully so, but it doesn't hurt that he throws it to two of the best receivers in football. Anquan Boldin and Larry Fitzgerald domintated the Seahawks on Sunday. The two combined for 23 catches on 30 targets and amassed 323 receiving yards. Both wideouts have made a home inside the top in our weekly rankings at receiver and that isn't going to change anytime soon.

WILLIE'S BACK
Steelers' running back Willie Parker played for the just the second time in six games and didn't appear to be limited by the shoulder harness he must finish the season wearing. Parker carried the ball 25 times for 115 yards and added a 4-yard reception. He ran well and even had a nice TD run, but it was called back due to penalty. With the Bengals on the slate in Week 12 Parker appears poised to be a stellar RB2 option moving forward.

ADDAI GOES OFF
Joseph Addai rewarded patient owners with a monster effort on Sunday vs. the Texans. The Colts' running back finished with 22 carries for 105 yards and a RuTD while catching 7 balls for 44 yards and a ReTD. The Colts' offense is coming on and Addai appears to be 100%. That couldn't be better news for owners that getting into the grind of a playoff stretch. The Texans' D has struggled lately, but the Browns, Bengals, and Lions still loom.

THE FALL OF DANIELS
Nobody has seen their fantasy vaule affected harded by the absence of Matt Schaub than Texans' tight end Owen Daniles. Prior to losing his quarterabck Daniels was on a tear and producing as good as any tight end in the league. In two games since Daniels has been a dud, catching just 2 balls for 27 yards and 0 TD's. Schaub is likely to miss at least two more games so you may want to look for other options until then.

DELHOMME A DUD
For the past two weeks I have endorsed Panthers' quarterback Jake Delhomme as viable starting fantasy option. However, following his second straight dismal display, this time against the Lions, I have lost faith in the Ragin' Cajun.  He managed to complete just 10 of 19 passes for 98 yards and 1 TD against the Lions. That was on the heels of a disaster in Oakland. Keep in mind both of the opponents gave up huge rushing yardage, but with bye weeks over Delhomme should find a spot on your bench.

Fantasy Football cardinals, kurt warner, anquan boldin, larry fitzgerald, steelers, willie parker, mewelde moore, joseph addai, colts, texans, owen daniels, sage rosenfels, matt schuab, jake delhomme, panthers

Here is our Line-Up Locks for Week 11. Bye weeks are finally over and this week's games have a lot of great match ups. I only list three, but there are plenty of good options this week. Here's a quick look at those who have favorable matchups (LOCK IN) and those who deserve a spot on your bench this week (LOCK OUT):

QUARTERBACKS
Lock In:
--Matt Ryan vs. Den
My take: Ryan has performed like a veteran for the very underrated Atlanta Falcons. This week his match up is so good, you have to consider Ryan a top 10 QB this week. Expect a couple of scores and at least 200 yards from him.

--Donovan McNabb @ Cin
My take: McNabb should have time to shred the Bengals defense, and can still scramble away from any pressure the defense might put on him.

--Trent Edwards vs. Cle
My take: Edwards has been hot and cold but is poised for a very nice week in what could be an offensive shootout.

Fantasy Football matt ryan, donovan mcnabb, trent edwards, chad pennington, eli manning, david garrard, deangelo williams, tim hightower, marshawn lynch, maurice jones-drew, earnest graham, justin fargas, santana moss, steve smith, roddy white, vincent jackson, bernard berrian, marvin harrison, chris cooley, owen daniels, kellen winslow, greg olsen, todd heap, kevin boss

Here is an early edition of Line-Up Locks for Week 10. Remember, there's a game tonight between the Browns and the Broncos, so set your lineups early, if necessary. Here's a quick look at those who have favorable matchups (LOCK IN) and those who deserve a spot on your bench this week (LOCK OUT):
 
QUARTERBACKS
Lock In:
--Phillip Rivers vs. KC
My take: Rivers is quietly one of the most consistent QBs in all of fantasy football. This week he gets a nice match up and could exploit the Chiefs defense for a couple of scores.

--Matt Ryan vs. NO
My take: The NFL's clear-cut favorite to win Rookie of the Year is Matt Ryan, and deservedly so. Ryan has looked like a savvy veteran and will get a chance to show off his skills at home against a bad New Orleans defense. Ryan is a much better QB at home than on the road. This is the week to use him if you have him.

--Jake Delhomme @ Oak
My take: This is usually the time of the year when Delhomme and Steve Smith get hot and that's exactly what's happening. Look for a couple scores from Jake this week, especially because, inexplicably Al Davis cut Deangelo Hall this week, further weakening the Raiders defense.

Lock Out:
--Donovan McNabb vs. NYG
My take: McNabb has put up very nice numbers all year, so why is he on this part of the list? Well, the Giants defense is ferocious and even a scrambler like McNabb will face intense pressure. This will lead to less production and more turnovers from him. He might still be your best QB, but if you have someone like Matt Ryan behind him, then move him to the bench for this week.

--Sage Rosenfels vs. Bal
My take: The waiver wire du jour should not be played this week. I know that the Texans passing game has impressed, but I just think they run better with Scaub under center and will face a Ravens defense that is still very tough.

--Brady Quinn vs. Den
My take: It's very tempting to put Quinn in this week, I know. The match up is ideal (Denver's defense is easy to score on). But, Quinn has had little to no time in practice to work with the first team. Since this is a Thursday game, he's had two days in fact. That's what scares me. Take a wait and see approach with Quinn.


RUNNING BACKS
Lock In:
--Jamaal Charles @ SD
My take: Charles showed who's really in charge in the Chiefs backfield now. With LJ not playing again this week, expect a repeat performance of 100+ yards and a score from Charles this week.

--Maurice Jones-Drew @ Det
My take: MJD was in this same spot last week and disappointed against the Bengals of all teams. I'll chalk that up to a fluke, but if he can't put up good stats versus the Lions, then it's officially time to worry about him.

--Jamal Lewis vs. Den
My take: Get Lewis in your lineup for tonight's game. The Broncos defense is terrible and Romeo Crennel will try to run the ball a lot to take some pressure off Brady Quinn.

Lock Out:
--Stephen Jackson @ NYJ
My take: S-Jax didn't practice yesterday and Coach Haslett said that if Jackson can't practice fully, he won't play this week. Plus, I'm putting Jackson on this list out of spite becaus those of us who own him are probably coming off losses thanks to the egg he laid last week. Until he shows he's healthy, I'm benching him.

--Ryan Grant @ Min
My take: Grant has been a huge disappointment this season. He's yet to produce big, consistent numbers and has a tough match up this week.

--Joseph Addai @ Pit
My take: Addai can also be considered a huge disappointment this year and like Grant, faces a tough match up this week.


WIDE RECEIVERS
Lock In:
--Brandon Marshall @ Cle
My take: The Broncos could really light up the scoreboard tonight and Marshall should see plenty of catches and scoring chances against a very bad Browns secondary.

--Steve Smith @ Oak
My take: As mentioned, this is usually when Smith starts to find his groove and he's coming off a two TD performance last week. No Deangelo Hall on him means plenty of open routes for Smith.

--Marques Colston @ Atl
My take: The Saints miss Reggie Bush. As a result, they have to throw it a lot more and Colston will benefit from what could be a shootout.

Lock Out:
--Desean Jackson vs. NYG
My take: As rookies tend to do, Jackson has faded as the season has worn on. This week will be no exception, keep him out until he shows flashes like he did early in the year.

--Devin Hester vs. Ten
My take: I have never been sold on Hester as a viable fantasy WR (yet). Many seem to still start him. With potentially a new QB under center and going against the NFL's best defense, why would you start him this week?

--Donnie Avery @ NYJ
My take: I go and put this guy in as a lock-in last week saying he's finally convinced me and what does he do but lay an egg? So, I am back to believing that if you can't score versus the Cardinals on your own home turf, then you don't deserve a start this week on the road against the Jets.


TIGHT ENDS
Lock In:
--Antonio Gates vs. KC
My take:  Not that you were going to bench him anyway, but this could be a huge week for Gates.

--Owen Daniels vs. Bal
My take: It's a tough match up, yes, but Daniels has proven that he's an every week starter regardless

--Kellen Winslow vs. Den
My take: Winslow loves the national spotlight and will get some soft coverage to exploit tonight. He allegdly liked the move to Brady Quinn, so let's see if that increases his targets.

Lock Out:
--Kevin Boss @ Phi
My take: This guy is too inconsistent to be counted on as a fantasy starter. This week it's a bad match up, too.

--Tony Scheffler @ Cle
My take: Again, until he proves he's back and can produce numbers for you, don't risk starting him.

--Zach Miller vs. Car
My take: He is in the top 5 of receiving yards for tight ends, but he has only one TD. I would expect no scores and limited yardage this week.


TEAM DEFENSE/ST
Lock In:
--Carolina @ Oak
--Miami vs. Sea
--Jacksonville @ Det

Lock Out:
--San Francisco @ Ariz

--Atlanta vs. NO
--New England vs. Buf

Fantasy Football phillip rivers, matt ryan, jake delhomme, donovan mcnabb, sage rosenfels, brady quinn, jamaal charles, maurice jones-drew, jamal lewis, stephen jackson, ryan grant, joseph addai, brandon marshall, steve smith, marques colston, desean jackson, devin hester, donnie avery, antonio gates, owen daniels, kellen winslow, kevin boss, tony scheffler, zach miller

Here is our Week 8 edition of Line-Up Locks. Here's a quick look at those who have favorable matchups (LOCK IN) and those who deserve a spot on your bench this week (LOCK OUT):
 
QUARTERBACKS
Lock In:
--Matt Schaub vs. Cin
My take: Schaub has been on a roll (his third appearance in a row on LL too). He's definitely gotta be considered one of the top 10 QBs to start this week against a woeful Bengals defense that is without its top LB in Keith Rivers now.

--Matt Cassel vs StL
My take: Reports of the Patriots demise were greatly exaggerated. I expect at least a pair of TDs and over 200 yards from Cassel again this week.

--Jason Campbell @ Det
My take: The Lions are a better team at home, granted, but that makes them lousy instead of awful. Campbell will throw two TDs this week.

Lock Out:
--Derek Anderson @ Jax
My take: A very tough road game for all the Browns in general. With no Kellen Winslow (who is suspsended), that's one less safety valve for the mistake-prone Anderson to turn to. This one could get ugly.

--Ben Roethlisberger vs. NYG
My take: Big Ben has been one of the most sacked QBs in the NFL this year and he faces the team with the most sacks. That spells trouble.

--Kurt Warner @ Car
My take: The Panthers don't get the respect they deserve on defense. Their pass defense, especially, is very good, and with this being a road game, I think Warner could struggle, even with Anquan Boldin returning.


RUNNING BACKS
Lock In:
--Steve Slaton vs. Cin
My take: See what I said about Schaube above and the same applies to Slaton, but perhaps even more. The Bengals do not stop the run and Slaton will exploit that. I would even perhaps condone picking up Ahman Green if you needed a quick fix this week, as even he could have value this week.

--Maurice Jones-Drew vs. Cle
My take: I like all of the Jacksonville's offense in this game, but because they will likely run and run and run some more, I did not include David Garrard on this list. Jones-Drew and even Fred Taylor have to be considered as must starts this week.

--Thomas Jones vs. KC
My take: There's something about the Jones' brothers that drives fantasy owners nuts. Thomas and Julius are inconsistent. But this week, Thomas should put up strong numbers against a bad Chiefs team.

Lock Out:
--Jamal Lewis @ Jax
My take: Lewis has a tough task ahead of him, trying to get yards against a Jacksonville defense that is stout in its own stadium. Expect less than 75 yards from Lewis and no score.

--Darren McFadden/Justin Fargas @ Bal
My take: This running duo has been fairly effecient, but not spectacular. This week, the effeciency ends. Both Fargas and McFadden are not good options this week. If you had to start one of them, Fargas would be the better choice.

--Dominic Rhodes @ Ten
My take: I predicted a nice performance from him last week and I was right. This week, listen to me again because Rhodes will face a defense that is very difficult to run on, on the road. Plus, watch for Addai's status as there's a chance he could return this week, although, I expect Rhodes to get most of the carries.


WIDE RECEIVERS
Lock In:
--Calvin Johnson vs. Was
My take: I saw everything I needed to see from Johnson last week on his 96-yard TD catch. Plus, Johnson was targeted 10 times last week. In a PPR league, Johnson is a sure fire starter, in most leagues, he makes a nice start this week.

--TJ Houshmandzadeh @ Hou
My take: Despite not having Carson Palmer throwing the ball to him, Houshmandzadeh has been consistently good. It would be nice if he scored more TDs, but in PPR leagues, he's fantastic and in straight yardage leagues, he's a good start too. He might even find the end zone this week.

--Santana Moss @ Det
My take: Moss is quickly becoming the more consistent WR named Moss this year. And this week, he will be the better Moss to start.

Lock Out:
--Terrell Owens vs. TB
My take: Did you see how bad the Cowboys offense looked without Tony Romo? They will be without him again this week, and that means, it's time to put TO on your bench. He'll probably whine about it, but do it anyway.

--Donnie Avery @ NE
My take: He's had a nice couple of weeks and might still be on your waiver wire, but I'm not sold on him as a reliable fantasy starter, especially this week facing a rejuvenated Patriots defense.

--Dwayne Bowe vs. NYJ
My take: Bowe is ridiculously talented in a keeper leagues should be held onto no matter what. But this year, with god-knows-who at QB, Bowe's value continues to plummet. Tyler Thigpen, or Bobby Thigpen or Steve DeBerg might be throwing to him this week. Who knows? And it doesn't matter.


TIGHT ENDS
Lock In:
--Owen Daniels vs. Cin
My take:  He scored last week and he'll score again this week as the Bengals have historically struggled to cover tight ends.

--Chris Cooley vs. Cle
My take: As Campbell and Moss will find each other regularly, so will Cooley and Campbell.

--Anthony Fasano vs. Buf
My take: This is a sneaky play in fantasy this week, but I think the Dolphins are starting to be more dimensional and as the Bills will give Ronnie Brown more attention, this will open up the field for Fasano.

Lock Out:
--Heath Miller vs. NYG
My take: Not this week.

--Kellen Winslow @ Jax
My take: Winslow is suspended this week, so he must be moved to your bench and would've made a bad start in this matchup anyway.

--Zach Miller @ Bal
My take: I generally like Miller as a fringe every-week starter, but not this week in this matchup which will be a low-scoring affair.


TEAM DEFENSE/ST
Lock In:
--Baltimore vs. Oak
--Jacksonville vs. Cle
--Washington @ Det

Lock Out:
--Miami @ Buf
--Arizona @ Car
--San Diego @ NO

Fantasy Football lineup locks, matt schaub, matt cassel, jason campbell, derek anderson, ben roethlisberger, kurt warner, steve slaton, maurice jones-drew, thomas jones, jamal lewis, darren mcfadden, justin fargas, dominic rhodes, calvin johnson, tj houshmandzadeh, santana moss, terrell owens, donnie avery, dwayne bowe, owen daniels, chris cooley, anthony fasano, heath miller, kellen winslow, zach miller, ravens def, redksins def, miami def, arizona def, san diego def

Did you miss this week's Fantasy Playbook as I go on with Lance McAlister on 1530 Homer the Sports Animal? Either way here's my notes from the show...

TREND OR MIRAGE
--QB Ben Roethlisberger (4 games w/out 200+ PaYd) – TREND – The Steelers’ offensive line is struggling and that is not giving him the time needed to make big plays. Expect TD passes, but not much yardage.

--QB Matt Schaub (only 4 TD passes in 3 games) – MIRAGE – Three of those came last week. Houston’s offense is just getting going and Schaub has many multi-TD games ahead.

--RB Ryan Grant (43 carries for 94 yards over past 3 games) – TREND – He’s getting close to getting the dud label, if Aaron Rodgers don’t play the wait will be over.

--WR Lance Moore (14 catches in past two games) – MIRAGE – Don’t get me wrong he’s a nice bye-week filler, but long-term there are too many other options in the offense for him to keep up this type of production.

--TE Todd Heap (3 catches for 37 yards on season) – TREND – Scrap Heap! That’s where this guy belongs. With Joe Flacco at the helm, the longtime fantasy commodity has proven to be useless.

INJURY REPORT
Anquan Boldin (sinus) – A devastating hit against the Jets fractured his sinus. It appears unlikely he’ll go this week, but the team will know more by the weekend. If he goes Boldin remains a must-start.

Aaron Rodgers (shoulder) – It is looking like Green Bay will go with Matt Flynn this week and that means a downgrade for all Packers’ fantasy values.

Steelers RB’s – Willie Parker (knee) is expected to return following the team’s Week 6 bye and first-round pick Rashard Mendenhall (shoulder) has been placed on the I.R. and is out for the season. Look for Mewelde Moore to get the bulk of the action for now in Pittsburgh’s backfield.

BYE WEEKS
Cleveland, Oakland, St. Louis, NY Jets

VALUE PACK
--QB Jake Delhomme vs. KC: The Chiefs have only allowed 3 TD passes in 4 games, but don’t let those stats fool you. In many games they were blown out. With Steve Smith back in his flow, the Panthers passing game will be productive on Sunday.

--RB  Earnest Graham at DEN:  Only the Rams have allowed more fantasy points to RB’s than Denver has and that should help Graham owners here.

--WR Bobby Engram at NYG: He will see plenty of Matt Hasselbeck targets right off the bat and that means he’s worth a look for a flex option upon his return this week.

--TE Owen Daniels vs. IND: Two straight games with at least 70 yards and at least three catches in every game is enough to make him a weekly starter.

--DEF Cowboys vs. CIN: The unit has struggled for fantasy owners, but with the struggling Bengals’ offense heading to town and possibly without Carson Palmer, Dallas’ D look appealing in Week 5.

**CATCH THE SHOW ON 1530HOMER.COM - Click on Thursday's 4:00 hour (4:30 weekly)**

Fantasy Football 1530 homer, lance mcalister, fantasy playbook, ben roethlisberger, matt schaub, ryan grant, lance moore, todd heap, anquan boldin, aaron rodgers, willie parker, rashard mendenhall, mewelde moore, browns, raiders, rams, jets, jake delhomme, earnest graham, bobby engram, owen daniels, cowboys def

Here is our Week 4 edition of Line-Up Locks. Here's a quick look at those who have favorable matchups (LOCK IN) and those who deserve a spot on your bench this week (LOCK OUT):

QUARTERBACKS
Lock In:
--Donovan McNabb @ Chi.

My take: The Bears are 28th in the league vs. the pass and Brian Westbrook is probably not going to play. What do you think the Eagles are going to do? That's right, pass the ball all day. Expect a huge day from McNabb this week. 

--J.T. O' Sullivan @ NO

My take: The 49ers offense is looking like a juggernaut. Who would've thought. And going against one of the poorest defenses in a potential shootout spells a fantastic day for O' Sullivan.

--Jake Delhomme vs. ATL

My take: Delhomme disappointed a little bit last week, yes, and you might have him as your #2 QB, but I expect Delhomme to throw for a couple of TDs against a Falcons team that I'm just not sold on being very good.

Lock Out:
-- --Derek Anderson @ Cin

My take: I think Anderson is going to feel the pressure of Brady Quinn waiting in the wings and make some mistakes, even though he's playing a team he's exploited big time and who essentially helped pad his Pro-Bowl stats last year.

--Kyle Orton vs. Phi.

My take: Don't be fooled by the Bears new-found passing game. They are still a running team with rookie Matt Forte. And the Eagles defense is very, very good.

--Ben Roethlisberger vs. Bal.

My take: He's hurt and going against a rejuvenated Ravens defense AND he has a rookie RB behind him this week.

RUNNING BACKS
Lock In:
--Chris Perry vs. Cle

My take: He scored his second TD of the year last week against a much better defense than he'll face this week.  

--Steve Slaton @ Jax

My take: He racked up over 100 yards last week against a good Titans defense. This week should be no different for this breakout rookie. 

--Darren McFadden vs. SD

My take: His turf toe is a concern, but he's practiced fully and seems to be over it and has a very favorable matchup and still no Justin Fargas to steal carries from him. Expect a big day from McFadden. 

Lock Out:
--Matt Forte vs. Phi

My take: Forte is young and exciting and has produced thus far, but the Eagles have yet to allow anyone to run for much, so I doubt this rookie can break that trend.

--Chris Johnson vs. Min

My take: Minnesota's run defense is still stout AND Lendale White is there to steal TDs. This is not a good week to put Johnson in your lineup. 

--Rashard Mendenahll vs. Bal

My take: His first start and significant playing time comes against a revitalized defense with a banged up QB handing off to him.

WIDE RECEIVERS
Lock In:
--Steve Smith vs. Atl

My take: This is the week Smith breaks out. His 60 yards last week was a tease. 

--Lavernaues Coles vs. Ariz

My take: Brett Favre seems to have established a connection with Coles.

--Dwayne Bowe vs. Den

My take: It's sad when Damon Huard makes you a better player, but that's the case here. Bowe is a safe bet for 60 yards and a TD.

Lock Out:
--Torry Holt vs. Buf

My take: The Rams offense is a mess. Nobody other than Stephen Jackson warrants a start at this point.
--Brandon Lloyd vs. PHI

My take: He had one really good game and now faces a nasty Eagles defense. 

--Chad Johnson vs. Cle.

My take: Leah Bodden is gone, but Chad always seems to falter a little against the Browns. I still think his shoulder is keeping him from making some catches and TJ has passed him on the targeted passes.

TIGHT ENDS
Lock In:
--Kellen Winslow @ Cin

My take:  Tight ends always do well against the Bengals and Winslow seems like one of the few Browns still playing with passion.

--Tony Scheffler @ KC

My take: The Broncos offense is impressive and the Chiefs defense is atrocious. 

 --Owen Daniels @ Jac

My take: This is the week for Daniels to step it up.

Lock Out:
--Vernon Davis @ NO

My take: He has been non-existant in this offense. Despite a good matchup until he proves he's in the gameplan, he should be on your bench.

--Todd Heap @ Pit

My take: I just don't see a lot of points being scored by the Ravens offense.

--Heath Miller vs. Bal.

My take: What few passing TDs that the Steelers have will go Santonio Holmes, probably, not Miller.

TEAM DEFENSE/ST
Lock In:
--Eagles @ Chi.
--Bills @SL

--Carolina vs. Atl.

Lock Out:
--Cleveland @Cin
--Cin vs. Cle.
--Washington @ Dal 

Fantasy Football lineup locks, donovan mcnabb, j.t. o' sullivan, jake delhomme, derek anderson, kyle orton, ben roethlisberger, chris perry, steve slaton, darren mcfadden, matt forte, chris johnson, rashard mendenahll, steve smith, lavernaues coles, dwayne bowe, torry holt, brandon lloyd, chad johnson, kellen winslow, tony scheffler, owen daniels, vernon davis, todd heap, heath miller, eagles, bills, panthers, browns, bengals, redskins

With the GSI Mock Draft entering the final six rounds, we begin to double-up with the recap:

RECAP: ROUND 1 | ROUND 2 | ROUND 3 | ROUND 4 | ROUND 5 | ROUND 6 | ROUND 7 | ROUND 8

ROUND 9 81. PREUTH - Steelers DEF 82. CLASGENS - Joey Galloway - WR 83. HUMBERT - Bernard Berrian - WR 84. BOLTON - Owen Daniels - TE 85. DINSMORE - Laveranues Coles - WR 86. MURDICO - Donald Driver - WR 87. SIMS - Jay Cutler - QB 88. SIMON - Nate Burleson - WR 89. WETZEL - Matt Schaub - QB 90. FISCHER - Justin Fargas - RB

ROUND 10 91. FISCHER - Patriots DEF 92. WETZEL - Cowboys DEF 93. SIMON - Deuce McAllister RB 94. SIMS - Chester Taylor RB 95. MURDICO - Eli Manning QB 96. DINSMORE - Bears DEF 97. BOLTON - Jaguars DEF 98. HUMBERT - DeAngello Williams - CAR 99. CLASGENS - Giants DEF 100. PREUTH - Ladell Betts - WA

My Picks: Galloway is the fourth receiver I have selected, but one that easily could emerge as a weekly starter on my roster. Somewhere between 80 and the 100th picks overall you can expect to see these type of wideouts fall off the board. His age is a concern though, but I still think he has upside after getting 98 targets last year. The Giants defense could be argued as fantasy's top option and easily a top 5 unit and some 30 picks later than the first defenses - San Diego and Minnesota - went off the board. I took heat from SIMS earlier, but he only has two wideouts on his team right now (Chad and Calvin Johnson) and I have added veterans Kevin Curtis and Joey Galloway as insurance. The Giants could easily equal or surpass the output by the others. Don't kid yourself, I am big on having a good defense, but this year there simply is not enough seperation in the top 6-8 units to justify taking one early. BUILD DEPTH AT KEY POSITIONS.

Nice Finds: Owen Daniels (84), Justin Fargas (90), Chester Taylor (94)

Final Take: Many teams still need backup QB's and kickers. Most have TE and a DEF at this point. The key to success in the later rounds is knowing what owners need what.

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