FANTASY 101
Don’t wait to crown a champion: Each year we get to Week 17 and see many teams resting players and others looking to the future, leaving many owners to scramble to field a lineup. Why play out a long season and let the champion be decided when at times many are playing without a full deck. Play your league title game in Week 16 and eliminate the problem. In many of my leagues we still have scoring titles and weekly high weeks during this week just to keep it interesting.

SETTING YOUR LINEUP
START 'EM
QB Eli Manning (vs. DAL) – Manning hit a skid at the wrong time for fantasy owners after an amazing November run. However, those that survived will reap the rewards when he faces a Cowboys’ D that he has had 300 yards and at least two TD passes in four of his last five meetings with.

RB CJ Spiller (at NE) – Over their past five games the Patriots have been getting eaten alive by running backs and Spiller has been on a tear recently with 47 fantasy points over his past two contests. Look for him to become the sixth straight runner to reach double digit fantasy points vs. New England.

SIT 'EM
RB Chris Johnson (at HOU) – The see-saw season of Chris Johnson is one week from being over. For the owners that endured it they shouldn’t put themselves through another week of misery. Pull the plug early and bench him against a Texans’ defense that has only ceded 18 yards to him on 10 carries in Week 7.

TE Vernon Davis (at STL) – No team has allow fewer fantasy points to tight ends than the Rams and few players at the position have disappointed as much as Davis. Sounds like it’s time to take a seat.

FANTASY INFIRMARY
RB Adrian Peterson (knee) – Peterson underwent surgery on Friday after being placed on injured reserve earlier this week with a torn left ACL and MCL and meniscus damage. The injury could cost him time in the 2012 season.

RB Ryan Mathews (calf) – Has tried to give it a go during practice this week, but was still sore on Friday. Expect him to a full-blown game-time decision for Sunday’s 4:15 tilt vs. OAK.

QB Tony Romo (hand) – Romo has practiced through the injury that forced him from Christmas Eve’s action and will start in the Cowboys’ must-win game against the Giants.

WR Andre Johnson (hamstring) – The Texans’ wideout has missed nine games to injuries this season, but will try to shake off the rust with limited snaps before the playoffs begin.  He’s a high-risk, high-reward fantasy play in Week 17.

WR Lance Moore (hamstring) – Moore will sit out the season finale and could miss playoff games. Expect Robert Meachem to become more involved in his absence.

Other injuries of note: Vincent Jackson (groin), Felix Jones (hamstring), Roy Helu (ankle), Jermichael Finley (knee)

FINAL WEEK HEADACHES
These are situations owners are hoping to avoid in Week 17…

PACKERS – With the #1 seed and home-field advantage locked up in the NFC, fantasy stud Aaron Rodgers and his supporting cast which has proven so useful to fantasy owners this year will likely be watching from the sidelines.

SAINTS – New Orleans needs the Rams to beat the 49ers to give their game any meaning. I’m not counting on it and neither are the Saints. Despite what Sean Payton has said there’s a good chance that come the second half he’s pulling starters.

TEXANS – The Texans have been reeling of late and would like to get some confidence heading into the postseason. Andre Johnson is making a return to the lineup, but how much he will be used is another question and Ben Tate could see a heavier workload to save the wear and tear on Arian Foster.

STEELERS – Pittsburgh still has shot to win the division and earn a first-round bye. However, it is unclear how much a hobbled Ben Roethlisberger might play. If the Ravens get a nice lead on the Bengals, he will likely sit. That makes all of the Steelers’ passing weapons a little less appealing in a surprisingly tough matchup with the Browns’ secondary.

Fantasy Football fantasy advice, week 17, fantasy 101, start em, sit em, lineup advice, injury report

FANTASY 101
The fantasy football season never ends: Keeping up with offseason changes, injury updates, and team depth charts is a grueling task if you wait until the week before the draft. Serious fantasy owners will monitor much of this throughout the offseason, taking notes of potential sleepers, busts and situations to watch as next season approaches.

SETTING YOUR LINEUP
START ‘EM
QB Michael Vick (at DAL) – After two weeks back in the saddle look for Vick to explode this week as he faces the Cowboys, a team that he had his best fantasy day of the season against in Week 8 as he passed for 279 yards and a pair of touchdowns with no picks and added 50 yards rushing. Expect similar numbers this time around as the Eagles play for their post-season livelihood.

RB Reggie Bush (at NE) – Few players have bigger down the stretch than Bush have to be for his owners. He has scored six times in the past seven games and has averaged 19 fantasy points per contest. This week he faces a Patriots’ D that ranks amongst the worst in the league. Expect at least 100 total yards and a score from Bush in Week 16.

SIT ‘EM
RB Brandon Jacobs (at NYJ) – Jacobs his three-game scoring streak snapped last week vs. the Redskins and is now set to face a stiff Jets’ D playing for a wildcard spot. With Ahmad Bradshaw back into the picture, Jacobs is nothing more than a low-end flex matchup this week and one that owners should look to avoid.

WR Brandon Lloyd (vs. PIT) – The quarterback issues have stalled the production of the Rams’ top wideout and that won’t change this week. Add to it a matchup with the Steelers ahead and owners should temper their expectations.

FANTASY INFIRMARY
RB Chris Johnson (ankle) – Johnson has been limited in practice, but all signs point to him playing. It wouldn’t be a surprise is backup Jamie Harper got some action.

RB Roy Helu (toe/knee) – Helu was limited in practice and his production suffered last week as he was not 100 percent. It appears as if he is going to give it a go in Week 16.

RB Felix Jones (hamstring) – Not at 100 percent, Jones appears ready to play through sore hammy. He’s always an injury risk.

WR AJ Green (shoulder) – Owners should start Green with confidence. Barring a setback he’s ready to go against Arizona.

QB Ben Roethlisberger (ankle) – The Steelers should rest him. Whether or not they will is a different story. I'm not expecting much.

Other injuries of note: Willis McGahee (hamstring), Maurice Jones-Drew (ankle), Stevie Johnson (groin)

LESSONS LEARNED
Here’s a look at some valuable lessons can learn from the 2011 fantasy season...

Gettinng an elite QB is a must – You have to get production at the QB position and the top tier guys payoff consider this the average production of the top 3 guys (Rodgers, Brees, Brady) is 410 fantasy points (thru 15 weeks). The average of the next 10 QB’s on the list is 283 points. That’s the difference in nearly 8.5 points per week.

The running back position is a deep as ever – There are so few elite fantasy running backs any more. In non-PPR formats after you take the top five scorers (McCoy, Rice, Foster, MJD, Lynch) off the board the difference in fantasy points in the sixth-best and 20th best scoring fantasy RB is (42 points) less than three points per week.

Rookies can help sooner than you think – While some members of the 2011 rookie class disappointed owners that took a chance on them there were others that made a big splash once given the opportunity including Cam Newton, DeMarco Murray, Roy Helu, AJ Green and Julio Jones. It requires patience, but going with young players with upside can payoff.

Depth is the key to success – There seemingly has never been a year more riddled by injuries than this season. That makes building great depth even more important. Some of that occurs on draft night, but hitting the waiver wire consistently is also important. For further proof look no further than the impact made by Victor Cruz and Laurent Robinson, who both performed as top 10 wideouts during stretches of the season and neither were drafted in many leagues.

Fantasy Football fantasy advice, fantasy 101, start em, sit em, lineup advice, injury report, fantasy lessons learned

FANTASY 101
Now is the time to discuss your league's rules: Every year fantasy leagues experience issues that arise throughout the season that challenges its league rules. Don’t wait until next August to talk about it and figure. Now is the time to address these matters while everything is so fresh in everybody’s minds.

SETTING YOUR LINEUP
START 'EM
QB Tim Tebow (vs NE) – The Patriots ranks as the league’s worst passing defense and have allowed 309 passing yards per game and 20.7 fantasy points to QB’s each time out. Tebow has thrown for over 200 yards in back-to-back weeks and always gets the rushing yards most signal callers don’t. He’s a top 10 option this week at the position.

TE Jermichael Finley (at KC) – If owners were fortunate enough to survive the goose egg Finley gave them last week they shouldn’t hesitate to put him back in their lineups this week as the Chiefs allow the seventh-most Fantasy points per game to opposing tight ends. Look for him to back on track in Week 15.

SIT 'EM
RB Rashard Mendenhall (at SF) – If you take away his two games against the Bengals, Mendenhall has only scored four times all year and this week he faces a 49ers’ defense that hasn’t allowed a rushing touchdown all season and that has ceded the fewest rushing yards on the season. Considering the matchup owners should look elsewhere.

WR Santonio Holmes (at PHI) – Despite Holmes finding the end zone in three straight weeks, owners should temper their expectations on Sunday vs. the Eagles, who have allowed an average of 13.5 fantasy points to wideouts over the past two games. Over his past four games Holmes has caught just 12 balls for 131 yards, hardly WR1 numbers.

FANTASY INFIRMARY
WR Greg Jennings (knee) – A knee sprain is going to cost the Packers top wideout 2-3 weeks, likely bringing an end to his usefulness for owners in redraft formats. His absence suddenly makes receivers James Jones and Donald Driver fantasy considerations.

RB DeMarco Murray (ankle) – The Cowboys placed the rookie sensation on I.R. earlier this week after he suffered a season-ending fracture in his ankle. Look Felix Jones to see a huge workload down the stretch as Dallas’ RB1.

QB Ben Roethlisberger (ankle) – After spending a good portion of this week in walking boot, Big Ben’s status for Monday night’s showdown with the 49ers is very much in question. His absence would mean a huge hit on the fantasy value of other Steelers.

RB Adrian Peterson (ankle) – Peterson remains limited but is making progress. He has a solid chance at returning to action.

WR Sam Bradford (ankle) – It is becoming apparent that his injury is still a factor. With little to gain, look for the Rams to sit him.

Other injuries of note: Matt Hasselbeck (calf), Kevin Smith (ankle), Mark Ingram (toe), James Starks (ankle)

BIG THINGS AHEAD
Here's a look at four players that stock is on the rise as we look towards 2012…

QB – Matthew Stafford (DET) – Stafford certainly put his name on the map as a legitimate starting fantasy QB. However, he’s cooled off during the second half.  The injuries in the backfield have made Detroit one dimensional and that has led to mediocre days and plenty of turnovers.  The fact he stayed healthy though is a great sign moving forward. Consider him a top 5 QB heading into 2011.

RB – Roy Helu (WAS) – After being stuck in Mike Shanahan’s mind games, Helu has been stellar since taking over as the Redskins’ No. 1 running back. He has put together three straight 100-yard games and has 44 receptions out of the backfield. The rookie is a legitimate top 10 fantasy RB, especially in PPR formats moving forward.

WR – Dez Bryant (DAL) – Despite being a model of inconsistency during his first two years as a pro, Bryant is entering that magical third year for a wide receiver in 2012. Look for him to put it altogether next season in a big way.

TE – Jermaine Gresham (CIN) – Gresham has shown flashes of brilliance this season, but has struggled to stay healthy. With so many exciting young offensive weapons emerging for the Bengals look for him to jump up to the elite tier of fantasy tight ends next year.

Fantasy Football fantasy advice, fantasy 101, start em, sit em, lineup advice, injury report, players to watch

FANTASY 101
Playoff Decisions – Don’t over think decisions: Owners that were fortunate enough to make their fantasy playoffs need to remember go with got you there. Now is the time to over analyze simple lineup decisions. Putting your best lineup forward means playing the players that have proven to be productive. Over reacting could wind up costing you your season.

SETTING YOUR LINEUP
START ‘EM
QB Phillip Rivers (vs. BUF) – As disappointing as Rivers has been this season he has tossed for multiple TD’s in four of his past five games and has 12 scoring passes in that span. This week he gets a Bills’ secondary that has ceded 21 passing touchdowns on the season and gives up an average of 234 yards through the air per contest.

WR Percy Harvin (at DET) – The Vikings’ wideout has had at least six catches in four straight weeks and has averaged over 20 fantasy points per week his last three times out. He faces a Lions’ D this week that has struggled to stop wideouts of late, allowing 27.3 fantasy points per game to receivers over their past three games.

SIT ‘EM
RB Steven Jackson (at SEA) – Jackson has struggled against the Seahawks, averaging just over 62 yards per game in his last five meetings with his NFC West foes. He hasn’t scored since Week 8 and has 125 rushing yards total over his last three contests. With the Rams’ leaning on starting third-string QB Tom Brandstater owners need to look elsewhere for a RB this week.

WR Dwayne Bowe (at NYJ) – Bowe’s scoreless streak has now reached seven games and hasn’t hit the 100-yard receiving mark since Week 5. With a matchup ahead this week against Darrelle Revis and Tyler Palko under center for the Chiefs he should be viewed as a low-end WR3 at best.

FANTASY INFIRMARY
RB Adrian Peterson (ankle) – AP returned to limited practice on Thursday as he continues to nurse his ankle. Owners need  to monitor this situation on Friday, but there is optimism that he could return from his two-game hiatus on Sunday.

RB Matt Forte (knee) – The Bears lost yet another offensive cog as Forte suffered a MCL injury. His prognosis is 2-6 weeks, but fantasy owners the timing couldn’t be worse with the playoffs starting this week. Marion Barber will see the bulk of the carries in his absence.

RB Beanie Wells (knee, thumb, hamstring) – Wells has been limited in practice all week, but it looks like he'll give it a go on Sunday. However, with him less than 100 percent and a stingy 49er's D on tap owners should consider other options.

WR Andre Johnson (hamstring) – The Texans have no reason to rush him back with the division wrapped up. It is likely to be too late for owners to get much use out of him.

WR Jeremy Maclin (hamstring, shoulder) – Appears as if he could return this week. He could be a nice fantasy playoff spark.

Other injuries of note: Kevin Smith (ankle), Willis McGahee (knee), Mark Ingram (toe), James Starks (ankle)

BEST WAIVER PICKUPS OF 2011
We look at the top bust at each position for this season that didn’t involve an injury…

QB – Cam Newton (CAR) – Nobody expected Newton to be this good, this quick. While he’s only thrown 13 touchdowns and has 14 interceptions this season the rookie has rushed for 518 yards and 13 touchdowns making him fantasy gold.

RB – Demarco Murray (DAL) – After starting the season third on the Cowboys’ depth chart at running back Murray made the most of his opportunity once given a chance to carry the rock. His production has dipped over the past few weeks, but his 870 yards rushing on just 158 carries has made him a solid RB2.

WR – Victor Cruz (NYG) – Perhaps the best fantasy pickup of the year, Cruz ranks as a top-five receiver in most formats. He has gone over 90 yards receiving and has had at least six catches eight times while finding the end zone seven times.

DEF – Houston Texans – Not many owners considered drafting the Texans, but they are a top three or four option in nearly any format.  The unit is top five in interceptions (17), sacks (35), and points allowed (189).

Fantasy Football fantasy advice, fantasy 101, lineup advice, start em, sit em, injury reprot, top waiver pickups

FANTASY 101
The Weather Watch Begins: With the calendar officially turning December now is the time fantasy owners need to stay on top of potential weather situations. Snow, wind, and wintery conditions can really throw off fantasy production. Kickers and quarterbacks are affected the most. However, owners need to be cautious not to over analyze weather. It should only be one consideration when making lineup decisions not the only consideration.

SETTING YOUR LINEUP
START 'EM
QB Matt Moore (vs. OAK) – Over his last three starts the Dolphins' signal caller has thrown for seven touchdowns and just one interception while averaging 225 yards per game. This week he faces a Raiders’ D that is one of only five units in the league to allow 20 or more passing touchdowns. Consider him a low end QB 1 in this matchup.

WR Brandon Lloyd (at SF) – Lloyd is developing great chemistry with quarterback Sam Bradford and has now pulled in a TD pass in three straight games while averaging five receptions for 63 yards during that span. The matchup may scare some owners away this week, but Lloyd is likely to still keep his production level going this week.

SIT 'EM
RB Peyton Hillis (vs. BAL) – Many disgruntled fantasy owners were happy to see Hillis finally healthy and starting for the Browns last week. However, his stat line didn't provide much to get excited about as he finished just 65 yards on 19 carries. With the Ravens' D only giving up 3.4 yards per carry to opposing RB's I wouldn’t expect much more from Hillis here.

WR Anquan Boldin (at CLE) – After catching just seven balls total over the past three weeks it is hard for me to get excited about Boldin’s chances this week against a Browns’ secondary that allows just 7.2 fantasy points per week to wideouts. Owners can likely find options with more upside in Week 13.

FANTASY INFIRMARY
RB Adrian Peterson (ankle) – He has yet to return to practice, but is working on the side and remains optimistic that he can play vs. DEN. Owners shouldn't hold their breath though. Toby Gerhardt starts again if Peterson sits.

RB Ahmad Bradshaw (foot) – Bradshaw has missed four straight games, but he's also holding out hope he can return in Week 13. He'll have to get on the practice field though before he sees game action against the Packers.

RB Kevin Smith (ankle) – Smith returned to the practice field on Thursday and took reps with the first team. His chances of playing Sunday night are looking up, but owners will want to keep their eyes on the situation as kickoff approaches.

WR Miles Austin (hamstring) – It's looking more like Austin will miss his fourth straight game as he continues to battle a hamstring injury. Even if he did return, he likely be limited with Laurent Robinson playing so well. Owners should consider other options.

Other injuries of note: Josh Freeman (shoulder), Willis McGahee (illness), Mario Manningham (knee)

BIGGEST BUSTS OF 2011
We look at the top bust at each position for this season that didn't involve an injury…

QB – Joe Flacco (BAL) – He has only thrown for multiple TD's in three of his 11 starts and has had five games in which he's thrown under 225 yards. With just 13 touchdowns and eight picks this season, Flacco has fallen out my top 15 QB's.

RB – Rashard Mendenhall (PIT) - While he's scored in five of his 10 games, Mendenhall has had just one 100-yard day. Even in PPR formats the Steelers' back, who many owners invested a first-round pick on, has had five weeks where he failed to hit double digits in fantasy points.

WR – Mike Williams (TB) – Despite coming on of late, a larger sample size shows that Williams has not deliver on his fantasy expectations. He has scored in two straight, but before that his last trip to the end zone was in Week 1. He still has not turned in a 100-yard receiving day and before last week reached the 75-yard mark just once all season.

TE – Jermichael Finley (GB) - Ever since his three-touchdown game against the Bears back in Week 3, Finley's production has been suspect. He has finished with four or more catches just twice over his last eight games and only has two touchdowns over that stretch. Playing in the Packers' offense with his talent should have yielded more for owners.

Fantasy Football fantasy advice, fantasy 101, lineup advice, start em, sit em, fantasy injuries, injury report, fantasy busts

Weekly Average Cheat Sheet (FantasySportsCentral.com) - a collaboration of several websites' player rankings

Matchups to Exploit or Avoid (ProFootballWeekly.com) - A short article on who to sit or start.

Start Em, Sit Em (NFL.com) - The ultimate look at the best and worst matchups of the week and how those matchups will affect your fantasy team.

Start/Bench List (FantasySharks.com) - A few players to start or bench for QB, RB, WR and TE with commentary.

Start/Bench (PigskinAddicition.com) - Studs, Start, Bench and Sleepers for QB, RB and WR with analysis and opposing D rank.

Player History (FFToday.com) - Game-by-game lifetime player fantasy points against the team they are playing this week including all game logs.

Fantasy Football Sleepers (KFFL.com) - In this article they break down fantasy football sleepers of the week.

Fantasy Football fantasy advice, fantasy links, player rankings, start em, sit em, lineup advice

FANTASY 101
Targeting Targets: A good way to beat other owners to the punch on the waiver wire or make key lineup decisions is to pay attention to target reports to see which players are getting thrown to the most often. While it doesn’t always translate breakout stats, it does mean they are at least getting chances. Be careful not to over emphasize a single week of data though. It’s always best to use larger sample sizes. This especially holds true in PPR formats.

SETTING YOUR LINEUP
START 'EM
RB LeGarrette Blount (vs. TEN) – After a strong performance last week versus Green Bay, Blount figures to be in line for another solid effort in Week 12. He is facing a Titans’ D that has ceded eight touchdowns to opposing running and that has allowed over 700 total yards and five touchdowns to the position over their past five contests.

WR Andre Johnson (at JAC) – Owners and been waiting too long to get their stud wide receiver back and there are only a few exceptions where he shouldn’t be immediately plugged into fantasy lineups. The Jaguars are without top corner Rashean Mathis and Johnson has found the end zone three times in his last four vs. Jacksonville.

SIT 'EM
RB BenJarvus Green-Ellis (at PHI) – The Law Firm hasn’t lived up to expectations to this point of the season and hasn’t made his way into the end zone in five straight weeks. The Eagles have only allowed one rushing touchdown since Week 5. Keep Green-Ellis on the pine.

TE Dustin Keller (vs BUF) – After a decent start to the year, Keller’s fantasy value has plummeted. He hasn’t scored since Week 2 of the season and hasn’t eclipsed more than seven fantasy points in a game over his last eight outings.

FANTASY INFIRMARY
RB Adrian Peterson (ankle) – The Vikings have ruled Peterson officially out for Week 12 against the Falcons. Toby Gerhardt will start in his place with Percy Harvin also in line to get some touches out of the backfield in his absence.

QB Michael Vick (ribs) and WR Jeremy Maclin (shoulder) – It looks like the Eagles will once again be without both Vick and Maclin as they welcome the Patriots. Vince Young and Riley Cooper are expected to get the nod in the starting lineup. Both could be decent fantasy options for owners scrambling for help.

RB Ahmad Bradshaw (foot) – The Giants’ running back will miss his fourth straight game on Monday versus the Saints. His absence hasn’t equaled huge success for Brandon Jacbos though, so you may want to look elsewhere.

WR Mario Manningham (knee) – Looking more and more like a game-time decision for Manningham. With the Giants not playing until Monday night though owners may not be able to wait for final verdict.

RB Jahvid Best (concussion) – The Lions finally placed Best on I.R., ending his season. Kevin Smith, who suffered a sprained ankle in Thursday’s loss to the Packers, is expected to shoulder the load the rest of the way in Detroit as long as he’s healthy.

Other injuries of note: Darren McFadden (foot), Deion Branch (hip), Montario Hardesty (calf)

BIG FINISHES – WR's
Here are a few wide receivers with favorable matchups over the next five weeks that could surprise…

Calvin Johnson (GB, @NO, MIN, @Oak, SD) – The rich get richer. Three of his last five matchups are against defenses that allow big fantasy points to receivers, including Week 14 vs. Minnesota and a fantasy championship Week 16 matchup against the Chargers. 

DeSean Jackson (NE, @Sea, @Mia, NYJ, @Dal) – As the Eagles’ healthiest receiver Jackson could help booster his contract status with a strong finish. The schedule should help with few cold weather stops and favorable matchups with the Pats, Seahawks, and Cowboys.

Brandon Lloyd (ARI, @SF, @Sea, CIN, @PIT) – The schedule doesn’t jump right out at you, but it’s not terrible either. As the Rams new wideout continues to develop chemistry with Sam Bradford his numbers should only go up.

Fantasy Football fantasy advice, week 12, fantasy 101, start 'em, sit 'em, lineup advice, injury report

FANTASY 101
Now Is The Time To Handcuff: last week for byes ahead. Now could be the perfect time to cut wait with dead wait on your roster for players that have upside in the event of an injury. For example, even owners who don’t have Matthew Stafford on their team should consider adding Shaun Hill if they need quarterback depth. At this point he’s more  valuable than carrying a player like Colt McCoy on your roster.

SETTING YOUR LINEUP (Byes: HOU, IND, NO, PIT)
START 'EM
QB Jay Cutler (vs. SD) – Over the past month The Bolts have given up 245.0 passing yards and 2.50 touchdowns per game. They have intercepted only a pass per game, on average, and have let signal callers complete 64.9 percent of their throws.

RB James Starks (vs. TB) – Tampa Bay has given up the most average fantasy points (39.7) per game to the position in standard scoring. He has averaged 13.0 attempts and 68.0 yards (5.2 per carry).

SIT 'EM
QB Joe Flacco (vs. CIN) - The Bengals are without their top corner Leon Hall, but the defense has allowed only one quarterback over their last seven games to throw for multiple TD’s and Flacco has thrown for more than one score in a game since Week 3.

RB Cedric Benson (@BAL) – has four-game average of 18.8 attempts for 61.3 yards and 0.25 TDs. He's still producing enough to be a weekly starter, but the Ravens are allowing 103 rushing yards and 0.8 TDs per game over the past four weeks to opposing RBs.

FANTASY INFIRMARY
RB Darren McFadden (foot) – The good news is he is now out of the walking boot. The bad news is he still not practicing. I would be surprised if he plays in Week 11.

QB Michael Vick (ribs) – Vick suffered two broken ribs in Week 10 and will likely be a game-time decision for this week’s tilt with the Giants.  Vince Young will start should he not go, but I am not very confident in him as a fantasy starter.

WR Jeremy Maclin (hamstring/shoulder) –There a good chance the Eagles’ wideout sits in Week 11 as he battles a variety of injuries. It his shoulder that his status in doubt.

WR Julio Jones (hamstring) – Not looking good after he missed his second straight practice on Thursday. Owners need to look elsewhere.

RB Felix Jones (ankle) – Set to make a return from ankle injury, but his role is going to be limited with DeMarco Murry on a roll. Playing a wait-and-see approach is recommended.

Other injuries of note: Matt Schaub (foot), Matt Cassel (hand), Ben Roethlisberger (thumb)

TEAMS RESTING PLAYERS
There are some teams that could have too big of a lead and opt to rest players come fantasy playoff time…

GB – The Packers have a three-game in the NFC North and are a game up on the 49ers for homefield advantage. If San Fran keeps pace it may help owners that are hoping the team doesn’t rest Aaron Rodgers and other key members of its offense during the fantasy playoff drive. Picking up Matt Flynn may not be a bad idea or Rodgers’ owners. The quest for a perfect regular season will likely keep Green Bay’s starters playing to the finish.

SF - With a five-game lead in the division the 49ers are a lock to make the playoffs. A win this week gives them a two-game edge for a first-round bye. If they lose a game they will likely begin resting players. It’s already started for banged up running back Frank Gore, who’s starting to lose, carries to Kendall Hunter.

NO – The Saints fit the bill as a team with a nice division lead, but one that likely will struggle to catch the top two seeds, the Packers and 49ers, for a first-round bye.

HOU – If they keep winning the Texans could decided to cut down on Arian Foster’s workload, but with Matt Leinart taking over at quarterback they could hit some bumps in the road that prevents them from that opportunity.

Fantasy Football fantasy advice, fantasy 101, start 'em, sit 'em, lineup advice, nfl injuries, injury report

FANTASY 101
Dealing with the Madden Curse: As I wrote on the blog earlier this week there is no greater indicator of a player becoming a fantasy bust than having them dawn the cover of EA Sports’ Madden Football. Peyton Hillis is the latest victim. The Browns’ running back has managed to play in just five games this season and failed to score in four them and has failed to have a 100-yard game. Now a hamstring injury has him sidelined and a contract squabble could prevent him from playing another snap with Cleveland.

SETTING YOUR LINEUP (Byes: None)
START 'EM
RB Steven Jackson (@CLE) – With 54 carries for 289 yards and two touchdowns over his last two games, owners have to be stoked for Jackson’s matchup this week at Cleveland. The Browns are the league’s third-worst rushing defense and game up over 100 yards rushing to not one, but two runners in Houston’s Arian Foster and Ben Tate.

WR Steve Breaston (vs DEN) – While last week’s 100-yard receiving day was Breaston’s first of the season for the Chiefs you have to like his chances of a repeat in Week 10. Only the Colts have allowed more passing TDs (18) and yards per pass (8.5) than the Broncos (17 & 8.2, respectively). Consider him a decent WR3/flex option.

SIT 'EM
QB Ryan Fitzpatrick (@DAL) – After a hot start to the season which saw him toss nine touchdowns in three games while averaging 280 yards each time out, Fitzpatrick has fizzled of late and is coming off his worst start of the year. He’s only averaging 217.8 ypg over his last five and has thrown as many INTs (6) and TD’s (6) in that span.

WR Sidney Rice (vs. BAL) – If you take out his two 100-yard games this season, Rice has averaged three catches for 56 yards in the other four contests. Going versus a Ravens’ D that has only allowed six passing TD’s all year and that gives up just 192.6 yards per game through the air Rice is better left on the bench in Week 10.

FANTASY INFIRMARY
RB Darren McFadden (foot) – A foot injury will keep McFadden sidelined for a second straight week and his status for Week 11 doesn’t look good either. Expect Michael Bush to continue to shine in the lead role in the Raiders’ backfield in his absence.

RB Mark Ingram (foot) – The Saints’ rookie practice for the second straight day on Thursday after missing the last two games and has a good shot to play this weekend. He’ll be a game-time decision and will likely be limited even if he’s able to return vs. Atlanta.

RB Beanie Wells (knee) – Wells was limited in practice again on Thursday, but it appears as if he’ll suit up on Sunday vs. PHI. He has played through the injury, but has been ineffective tallying just 103 yards on 30 carries over the past two weeks.

RB Jahvid Best (concussion) – There has no progress made by Best, who missed two games and had a bye week as he deals with his second concussion of the season. With his status for the remainder of the season up in the air owners need to look for other alternatives moving forward.

WR Miles Austin (hamstring) – Another hamstring injury will sideline Austin this week and likely longer. Some reports suggest he could be 2-4 weeks. Owners may want to consider adding Laurent Robinson, who shined last week in Austin’s absence.

Other injuries of note: Andre Johnson (hamstring), Hakeem Nicks (hamstring), Ahmad Bradshaw (foot)

BIG FINISHES – RB's
Here are a few running backs with favorable matchups over the next five weeks that could surprise…

Chris Johnson (@CAR, @ATL, TB, @BUF, NO) – Despite a disappointing start to the year Johnson could get hot with three matchups against bottom 10 defenses against the run over the next five, including tilts with the Panthers, Bills and Saints.

Marshawn Lynch (BAL, @STL, WAS, PHI, STL, @CHI) – After a tough Week 10 matchup against the Ravens, Lynch will get the lowly Rams twice and the struggling Eagles’ D in three of his next four.

BenJarvus Green-Ellis (@NYJ, KC, @PHI, IND, @WAS) – Assuming he’s the primary ball carrier for the Pats over the next month Green-Ellis should excel with games on tap versus KC, Philly and Indy ahead.

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FANTASY 101
RB's on Bad Teams Equal Bad News: With more and more teams going with more than running back these days it’s more important than ever to have consistent production in your backfield. One trend to consider when forming your team is going with running backs on good football teams. If a team is consistently playing from behind running backs lose opportunities late in games. Consider of this season’s top 15 scoring running backs only three play on a team currently with a losing record (A. Peterson, M. Jones-Drew and S. Jackson).

SETTING YOUR LINEUP (Byes: CAR, DET, JCK, MIN)
START 'EM
QB Josh Freeman (@NO) – Freeman has been hit or miss all year.  After combining for 558 yards through the air with four touchdowns and no interceptions in his last two against the Saints, including a 303-yard, two-TD performance in Week 6, the Bucs’ signal caller will be a hit this week.

RB Michael Turner (@IND) – The Falcons are 25-1 when they give Turner 20-plus carries and over the past two games they’ve gone to their top runner early and often. He responded with back-to-back 100-yard efforts. Look for him to stretch the streak to three and add a score this week against the Colts’ 31st-ranked running defense.

SIT 'EM
QB Joe Flacco (@PIT) – Despite throwing for 365 yards last week against the Cardinals, Flacco failed to throw a touchdown. It was third time in four games the Raven failed to have a TD pass. In seven games versus the Steelers during his career, Flacco has only tossed for six scores.

WR Steve Johnson (at TEN) – The Bills No. 1 wideout has failed to eclipse 57 receiving yards in a game since Week 3 and has only scored once during that span. With a game with the Jets and a matchup with Darrelle Revis on tap owners should look elsewhere on Sunday.

FANTASY INFIRMARY
RB Darren McFadden (foot) – McFadden didn’t practice on Thursday and has been seen in a boot this week at the Raiders’ facility after suffering a mid-foot sprainExpect Michael Bush to get a heavy workload in his absence.

RB Ahmad Bradshaw (hamstring) – The Giants are saying that Bradshaw is “out indefinitely” with a cracked bone in his foot. Brandon Jacobs becomes the primary ball carrier, with D.J. Ware getting some looks. Expect to see Eli Manning become even more pass-heavy in Bradshaw’s absence.

WR Hakeem Nicks (hamstring) – He missed practice for the second straight and appears to be headed towards being a game-time decision versus the Patriots on Sunday. Owners need to pay careful attention here.

WR Wes Welker (neck) – Welker returned to practice on Thursday and looks like a go for Sunday. Despite this ailment and a minor dip in his production of late the veteran is still a top 5 fantasy wideout this week.

RB Ryan Mathews (groin) – Did not practice Wednesday after suffering injury on MNF. With Chargers playing next Thursday night against Raiders too, they may opt to sit Mathews Sunday vs. GB.
Other injuries of note: Andre Johnson (hamstring), Willis McGahee (hand), Felix Jones (ankle)

BIG FINISHES – QB's
Here are a few quarterbacks with favorable matchups over the next five weeks that could surprise…

Carson Palmer (DEN, SD, MIN, CHI, and MIA) – No signal caller has an easier path than the Raiders’ new QB. If he can begin to develop some chemistry with Oakland’s young and talented wideouts, Palmer could prove to be a fantasy asset down the stretch.

Christian Ponder (BYE, GB, OAK, @ATL, and DEN) – The rookie has looked decent in his first two starts and now gets a bye to get even more work in. Upon his return to action Ponder should fare well against four teams that rank in the bottom ten in points allowed to fantasy quarterbacks.

Mark Sanchez (@BUF, NE, @DEN, BUF, @WAS) – Sanchez has been inconsistent all season, but look for him to get on track with division games against Pats and the Bills twice.  Despite his struggles the Jets’ signal caller has thrown for multiple scores in 5 of 7 contests and owners should expect that trend to continue.

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