QB Game Ball - Matt Schaub, Houston - 29/39, 365 yards, 2 TD, 1 INT
Technically the Texans have a shot at the post-season and no one has to remind their QB of that fact. Schaub and company tore apart a reeling Seahawks team on Sunday. His stud WR Andre Johnson had a monster game with 11 catches for 193 yards and scored twice. Houston is still running by committee but it doesn't matter much with Schaub at the helm. And while a playoff shot is very doubtful the team can still post their first winning record in franchise history.

QB Honorable mention - Phillip Rivers, San Diego - 21/32, 272 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT (Chargers quietly have become second best team in AFC.)

RB Game Ball - Adrian Peterson, Minnesota - 26 carries, 97 yards, 2 TD, 3 catches, 43 yards
A lot of backs put together better numbers than AP on Sunday but none of them faced a tougher defense. After a weak performance last Sunday in Arizona, Peterson ran hard against the Bengals, especially late in the game to seal the victory. He now leads the league in TDs and is third in rushing. Sure, Brett Favre gets a lot of ink and the Vikes have an awesome defense, but if Minnesota makes it to the big game it will be on the legs of Peterson.

RB Honorable Mention - Ray Rice, Baltimore - 219 total yards, 2 TD (impressive even if he did play the Lions.)

WR Game Ball - Brandon Marshall, Denver - 21 catches, 200 yards, 2 TD
Say what you want about his off-the-field issues and pre-season holdout and contract bickering, Marshall knows how to catch the football. He set the record for most catches in a game on Sunday against the Colts. For a while it actually looked as if Indy just stopped trying to cover the guy. Unfortunately for Marshall, his big day was not enough to top the undefeated Colts. The Broncos still have a good shot at the Wild Card but they may need some continued good play from their star receiver.

WR Honorable Mention - Dallas Clark, Indianapolis - 5 catches, 43 yards, 3 TD (he's a tight end? Whatever.)

The Game Used Sock Award - Randy Moss, WR, New England - 1 catch, 16 yards
Now before I get called a 'Patriot Hater' I wish to point out that New England beat the Panthers despite mediocre play from their quarterback. Still, just a few days after Moss was sent home for showing up late to a team meeting, he went out and caught one lousy ball. Sure, the guy has hall-of-fame numbers and this was just one game. But the Pats have been struggling and they did not play well against the Panthers. They are going to need Moss to step up if they plan on making it very far in the playoffs. And if any of you fantasy owners were counting on a good game from Moss, then you're probably going home with his stinky sock.

Stink Sock Honorable Mention - Marion Barber, RB, Dallas - 14 carries, 47 yards (one 100+ game this season.)

Fantasy Football, NFL game balls, week 14

QB Game Ball - Vince Young, Tennessee - 27/43, 387 yards, 1 TD
Don't look now but the Titans are creeping their way into the playoff race. They have now won five in a row with Young at the helm. The latest win came with no time left when Young found Kenny Britt in the end zone to top the Cardinals. This was the first game, though, that Young put the team on his shoulders and easily set a season high in yardage. Chris Johnson still did a solid job with 154 yards and a score and the Titans D held Arizona to just 17 points.

QB Honorable Mention - Brett Favre, Minnesota - 392 yards, 3 TD (Season totals - 24 TDs, 3 Int, 10-1 record - MVP?)

RB Game Ball - Justin Forsett, Seattle - 22 carries, 130 yards, 2 TD
No one has run the ball well for the Seahawks since the depature of Shaun Alexander. But Forsett did his best impersonation against the Rams on Sunday. The second-year back actually ran for more yards than Matt Hasselbeck threw. Of course, St. Louis does not have much of a defense. But Julius Jones may not have a job when he returns from injury.

RB Honorable Mention - Larry Johnson, Cincinnati - 22 carries, 107 yards (not bad for the second game with his new team.)

WR Game Ball - Donald Driver, Green Bay - 7 catches, 142 yards, 1 TD
Driver won a big Turkey award thanks to his big game against the Lions on Thanksgiving. While Greg Jennings seems to have fallen off the map, Driver has not missed a beat since the depature of Favre. The Packers are also in the running for a Wild Card spot and will count on the veteran heavily during the stretch run.

WR Honorable Mention - Terrell Owens, Buffalo - 5 catches, 96 yards, 1 TD (another Bills win, another big day for T.O

The Game Used Sock Award - Jake Delhomme, Carolina - 14/34, 130 yards, 0 TD, 4 INT
This isn't the first dirty sock for Delhomme and likely won't be his last. The Panthers seem to have a great mix with a solid rushing attack and good defense. But it is their QB that always seems to let them down. After Sunday's loss to the Jets Carolina might just be out of the playoff race. And even though Delhomme has plenty of wins under his belt he has quite a few stinky socks in his drawer.

Stinky Sock Honorable Mention - Brady Quinn, Cleveland - 15/34, 100 yards, 0 TD, 0 INT (no interceptions is a big improvement for any Browns QB.)

Fantasy Football, NFL game balls, fantasy advice, week 12

QB Game Ball - Matthew Stafford, Detroit - 26/43, 422 yards, 5 TD, 1 INT
Not much has gone right for the Lions the last two seasons but the Browns coming to town changed things around. Their rookie QB had a monster game capped by a winning TD pass with no time left on the clock. Young stars Calvin Johnson and and Kevin Smith both finished with over 100 receiving yards. Unfortunately for Stafford he hurt his shoulder on the second-to-last play and may miss some time. Still, there may be hope for the Lions in the future.

QB Honorable Mention - Aaron Rodgers, Green Bay - 32/45, 344 yards, 2 TD (another 'Brett who?' game for Rodgers.)

RB Game Ball - Laurence Maroney, New England - 22 carries, 77 yards, 2 TD
Although six different players took a handoff for the Patriots on Sunday, Maroney got the bulk of the load. He has now scored in five straight games and continues to be the feature back in New England. But it's still hard to predict who will carry the ball on any given day.

RB Honorable Mention - Tim Hightower, Arizona - 10 carries, 110 yards (Wells added 74 yards and a TD in a balanced Cardinals offense.)

WR Game Ball - Terrell Owens, Buffalo - 9 catches, 197 yards, 1 TD
T.O. has not had much to be happy about with his new team in Buffalo. But he shouldn't have too may complaints after his big game on Sunday. It easily marked the most catches in a game this year and he scored for the second time as a member of the Bills. He may be upset that the Bills still lost but I am not sure how much that matters to him these days.

WR Honorable Mention - Wes Welker, New England - 15 catches, 192 yards (Now he's worth getting out the popcorn for.)
 

The Game Used Sock Award - Mark Sanchez, QB, NY Jets - 8/21, 136 yards, 1 TD, 4 INT
After the start that Sanchez and the Jets got off to this season many were mentioning his name with guys like Joe Namath. Well, times have changed. Sure, he's a rookie. And, sure, they played a tough defense in the Patriots. But Sanchez now has 16 interceptions this year to go with just 10 TDs. He has thrown for more than 200 yards in just three of his 10 games with a high 272 back in week one. And now he has his first stinky sock.

Stinky Sock Honorable Mention - Tony Romo, QB, Dallas - 15/27, 158 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT (against the Redskins?!?!)

Fantasy Football, NFL game balls, fantasy advice, week 11

QB Game Ball - David Garrard, Jacksonville - 16/26, 221 yards, 1 TD, 1 rush TD
Jacksonvilled is back in the playoff hunt thanks to a big win over the Jets on Sunday. While the Jaguars continue to be a run first team, Garrard proved to be a leader on Sunday. Not only was he responsible for two scores, he led the team in a last minute drive leading up to the game winning field goal.

QB Honorable Mention - Donovan McNabb, Philadelphia - 35/55, 450 yards, 2 TD, 1 Int (huge stats but the loss really hurts Philly.)

RB Game Ball - Chris Johnson, Tennessee - 26 carries, 132 RuYd, 2 TD, 9 catches, 100 ReYd
Three wins in a row for the Titans and three huge games from Johnson. Tennessee is certainly a better team than they looked in the first six weeks but their tests will be coming up soon. They have Houston, Arizona and Indy in the next three weeks. Either way, Johnson is a stud and should continue to produce even against those opponents.

RB Honorable Mention - LaDainian Tomlinson - 24 carries, 96 yards, 2 TD (Sproles was not in the mix with just 2 carries and 14 yards.)

WR Game Ball - Sidney Rice, Minnesota - 7 catches, 201 yards
The Vikings continue to roll on Sunday and did not have much of a problem with the Lions. Adrian Peterson had a huge game and Old Man Favre had some nice numbers as well. Rice was the biggest factor in the passing game and is starting to compile some huge stats. In the last four games he has 553 receiving yards. Unfortunately he has scored just twice this season.

WR Honorable Mention - Brandon Marshall, Denver - 5 catches, 134 yards, 2 TD (continues to be a stud.)

The Game Used Sock Award - Ben Roethlisberger, QB, Pittsburgh - 20/40, 174 yards, 0 TD, 1 INT
First of all, credit needs to be given to a very good Cincinnati Defense. But with that said, Big Ben did not look good on Sunday. He was sacked four times, under constant pressure and out of sync with his receivers. It was the first game this year that he did not throw a touchdown and only the second to finish with under 200 passing yards (Minnesota was the other opponent.) And the loss to the Bengals is a serious blow to the team that now has to work hard for a Wild Card spot. Sure Roethlisberger has two Superbowl rings and now he can keep them in a stinky sock.

Stinky Sock Honorable Mention - Marion Barber, RB, Dallas - 5 carries, 26 yards (averaging 45 yards on the ground in the last six games.)

Fantasy Football, NFL game balls, fantasy advice, week 10

QB Game Ball - Kurt Warner, Arizona - 22/32, 261 yards, 5 TD
Last week Warner threw five picks. This week he threw five scores. That's the kind of season it has been for the Cardinals - up and down. But at 5-3 they have a two game lead in the NFC West and if Warner can keep things together they could easily put together another big run to the playoffs. Regardless, he has job security. Matt Leinart came in for clean-up duty and was 0 for 1 with an interception.

QB Honorable Mention - Josh Freeman, Tampa - 14/31, 205 yards, 3 TD, 1 INT (First-career start and the team's first win of the season.)

RB Game Ball - Chris Johnson, Tennessee - 25 carries, 135 yards, 2 TD
It is back-to-back Game Balls for the stud Johnson and it's no coincidence that the Titans won both of those games. Johnson has 363 yards on the ground in the wins and scored four times. The defense also kicked in by picking off Alex Smith three times and returning one of those for a TD. Tenessee really doesn't have much hope for a winning season but they are at least starting to look more like the 2008 team.

RB Honorable Mention - Joseph Addai, Indianapolis - 112 total yards, 2 TD (no Donald Brown turned into a big game for Addai.)

WR Game Ball - Randy Moss, NE - 6 catches, 147 yards, 1 TD
While Moss has been a bit inconcsistent this season he has turned things around lately. Over the last three games he has 19 ctaches for 345 yards and scored four times. Sure, it seems like he did that every game two years ago but this Patriots team is not quite as good. But they are still pretty great and so is Moss.

WR Honorable Mention - Chris Chambers, Kansas City - 3 catches, 70 yards, 2 TD (cut by the Chargers earlier in the week and made a big impact for the Chiefs.)

TE Game Ball - Dallas Clark, Indianapolis - 14 catches, 119 yards
No one caught more passes than Clark on Sunday. Of course there are not a lot of offenses like the Colts. Peyton Manning put the ball in the air 50 times against the Texans. So Clark was bound to get a few of those. But 14 is very impressive. Unfortunately he did not find the endzone and has scored just three times this season.

TE Honorable Mention - Greg Olsen, Chicago - 5 catches, 71 yards, 3 TD (scored all the Bears points in the loss to Arizona.)

The Game used Sock Award - LaDainian Tomlinson, RB, San Diego - 12 carries, 22 yards, 2 catches, 8 yards
The last time LT played the Giants he ran for three touchdowns and threw another. Wow, times have changed. Sure the Giants have a pretty good defense and the Chargers offensive line couldn't create any holes but Tomlinson is just not the same. A few years ago I grabbed him with the first pick in a keeper league. I have a Chargers shirt, hat and mug along with a ton of fantasy wins thanks to LT. But now it looks like all I get is a stinky sock.

Stinky Sock Honorable Mention - Aaron Rodgers, Green Bay - 17/35, 266 yards, 2 TD, 3 Int (couldn't get it done against the Bucs?)

Fantasy Football, NFL fantasy advice, game balls, week 9

QB Game Ball - Brett Favre, Minnesota - 17/28, 244 yards, 4 TD
Favre had no trouble in his return to Green Bay on Sunday. The old man may have been nervous but he did not show it as he smiled through the boos when he took the field for the first time. But then he went right to work and led his new team to another vicotry. It really was an important game for the Vikings after losing last week in Pittsburgh. Now, at 7-1 Favre has his team in control of the NFC North.

QB Honorable Mention - Peyton Manning, Indianapolis - 31/48, 347 yards (no TDs but the day's only 300+ performance.)

RB Game Ball - Chris Johnson, Tennessee - 24 carries, 228 yards, 2 TD
The Titans finally won a game this year by going back to what worked for them in 2008 - running the ball. Johnson tore apart the Jags on Sunday with TDs of 52 and 89 yards. He also made Vince Young look good in his first start of the year. Young threw a touchdown and more importantly did not turn the ball over.

RB Honorable Mention - Ryan Moats, Houston - 23 carries, 126 yards, 3 TD (made the best of his opportunity versus the Bills.)

WR Game Ball - Reggie Wayne, Indianapolis - 12 catches, 147 yards, 1 TD
While there was plenty of scoring on Sunday it seems like most of the damage was done on the ground. Peyton Manning was the only QB with a big day and no other receiver came close to Wayne's stats against the 49ers. Is it me or do we all just take it for granted that the Manning and Wayne are awesome and the Colts are undefeated?

WR Honorable Mention - Vincent Jackson, San Diego - 8 catches, 103 yards, 1 TD (needed a big game against the Raiders.)

The Game Used Sock Award - Steve Slaton, RB, Houston - 1 carry, 1 yard, 1 fumble
A few weeks ago Slaton earned his first stinky sock. Now he has a pair. Slaton dropped the ball early in the game against the Bills and watched the rest of it from the sideline. While he's sure to get another chance, the Texans don't seem to really need him. Instead of going to Chris Brown, the team watched Ryan Moats have a huge day. Sure, it was just against a weak Buffalo team but the message has been sent. Slaton is not a stud running back anymore.

Stinky Sock Honorable Mention - Kurt Warner, QB, Arizona - 27/46, 2 TD, 5 Int, 1 Fum (when it rains it pours.)

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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

QB Game Ball - Matt Schaub, Houston - 28/40, 392 yards, 4 TD, 1 INT
The Texans put a hurt on the Bengals Sunday thanks to a big day from Schaub. The Texans QB relied heavily on his stud WR Andre Johnson (8 catches, 135 yards) and his Pro-Bowl TE Owen Daniels (2 TD). It was the fourth time in six games that Schaub threw for more than 300 yards and he now has 14 touchdowns and just five interceptions.

QB Honorable Mention - Ben Roethlisberger, Pittsburgh - 23/35, 417 yards, 2 TD, 1 INT (another big game against an Ohio team.)

RB Game Ball - DeAngelo Williams, Carolina - 30 carries, 152 yards, 2 TD, 2 catches, 20 yards
The Panthers got their running game in gear against the Bucs on Sunday. Williams and his counterpart Jonathan Stewart combined for 262 yards and three scores. It was the first time this season either back reached triple digits on the ground.

RB Honorable Mention - Thomas Jones, NY Jets - 22 carries, 210 yards, 1 TD (the Jets rush for more than 300 yards and lose?!?!)

WR Game Ball - Sidney Rice, Minnesota - 6 catches, 176 yards
The Vikes won another close game thanks to some magic from their new QB. Brett Favre hooked up with Rice on a 58 yard play that set up the game winning field goal. Then, just a few minutes later, the Ravens missed a field goal with time running out, thanks once again to Favre. Okay, he had nothing to do with it but he'll probably still get credit. Regardless, Minnesota's WRs are all better with him at the helm.

WR Honorable Mention - Welker/Moss, New England - combined for 18 catches, 279 yards, 5 TD (really, neither should have been playing in the second half.)

TE Game Ball - Zach Miller, Oakland - 6 catches, 139 yards, 1 TD
The Raiders beat the Eagles? Yeah, they did. Oakland actually looked pretty good on Sunday. The D held Philly to just three field goals. Justin Fargas and Michael Bush combined for over 100 yards on the ground. And Jamarcus Russell found his new favorite target in Miller.

TE Honorable Mention - Owen Daniels, Houston/Visanthe Shiancoe, Minnesota/Heath Miller, Pittsburgh (combined for 5 TDs - the TE position is deep!)

The Game Used Sock Award - Kerry Collins, Tennessee - 2/12, -7 yards, 1 INT, 1 Fum
It snowed in New England today. There was snow on the ground throughout the game between the Patriots and Titans. And while it seems early for snow, football players should be used to it. Kerry Collins was not. He has, however, gotten used to losing. And losing badly. I'm not really sure what happened in that game today. I don't think the Patriots are really that good and I don't think the Titans are really that bad. But something sure is not right with Collins. To his credit, Vince Young did not do much better after replacing him. Maybe they can both go home with a stinky sock. Or at least a couple of thermal ones.

Stinky Sock Honorable Mention - Jason Campbell, Washington - 9/16, 89 yards, 1 INT (he had his chance against the Chiefs and blew it.)

Fantasy Football, NFL game balls, week 6, matt schaub, deangelo williams, sidney rice, zach miller, kerry collins

QB Game Ball - Kyle Orton, Denver - 35/48, 330 yards, 2 TD, 1 INT
The Broncos are now 5-0 with their new QB at the helm. Sure, a soft schedule, good defense and a few freaky plays have helped, but today Orton led his team to the a game winning field goal in overtime. Oh, and it was against the Patriots! Orton may never be Tom Brady or even Jay Cutler, but he's leading his team to victory and sometimes that is all that counts.

QB Honorable Mention - Matt Hasselbeck, Seattle - 241 yards, 4 TD (if he could stay healthy, the Seahawks may have a good year.)

RB Game Ball - Cedric Benson, Cincinnati - 27 carries, 120 yards, 1 TD
While those numbers are not exactly huge, the fact that Benson was running against the Ravens is significant. It has been a few years since Baltimore has allowed anyone to reach triple digits on the ground. The Bengals were persistent, however, and Benson's performance today and through the first five games are a big reason Cincinnati is in first place.

RB Honorable Mention - Michael Turner - 97 yards, 3 TD (a nice game for all the Falcons against what has been a good 49ers D.)

WR Game Ball - Miles Austin, Dallas - 10 catches, 250 yards, 2 TD
After grabbing just five balls in the first four games, Austin had a monstrous day in Kansas City. His biggest catch was the last play of the game - a 60-yard TD in overtime.

WR Honorable Mention - Jeremy Maclin, Philadelphia - 6 catches, 142 yards, 2 TD (a coming-out party for the rookie.)

TE Game Ball - Kellen Winslow, Tampa Bay - 9 catches, 102 yards, 2 TD
Winslow left Cleveland in search of greener pastures. Unfortunately for him he ended up in Tampa. But he did play well with new QB Josh Johnson giving the Bucs some hope for the future.

TE Honorable Mention - Heath Miller, Pittsburgh - 5 catches, 54 yards, 1 TD (that's 29 grabs in five games.

Game Used Sock Award - Maurice Jones-Drew, Jacksonville - 12 carries, 34 yards, 5 catches, 23 yards
Just when everyone thought the Jags were coming to life, they go and lay an egg in Seattle. A team that has been known in recent years for running the ball and playing solid defense did not do either on Sunday. As for MJD, he has just one good game this year and that came against the Texans. He had just 14 yards on the ground against a tough Titans D last week and followed that up with 34 against the Seahawks - ugh! He may do better next week against the Rams but don't bet on it. The only thing for sure is he is flying home tonight with a stinky sock.

Stinky Sock Honorable Mention - Anyone who watched the Browns beat the Bills 6 to 3.

Fantasy Football, NFL kyle orton, cedric benson, miles austin, kellen winslow, maurice jones-drew

QB Game Ball - Joe Flacco, Baltimore - 25/35, 342 yards, 1 TD
Flacco topped 300 yards for the second time in the short season. Sure those were performances against the Chiefs and Browns but he has picked up where he left off last season. The Ravens still have a solid defense and a good running game but Flacco is showoing they can win through the air too.

QB Honorable Mention - Brett Favre, Minnesota - 24/46, 301 yards, 2 TDs, 1 Int (Old #4 pulled out another miracle win.)

RB Game Ball - Pierre Thomas, New Orleans - 14 carries, 126 yards, 2 TDs
I don't know how many plays Thomas was on the field for in the first half but I do know he didn't carry the ball until the third quarter. So, yes, those numbers represent a half game worth of work. And it wasn't just 'mop-up' yardage. The Saints had just a six point lead before Thomas took charge.

RB Honorable Mention - Maurice Jones-Drew, Jacksonville - 23 carries, 119 yards, 3 TDs (Huge game after a couple of mediocre performances.)

WR Game Ball - DeSean Jackson, Philadelphia - 6 catches, 149 yards, 1 TD
With McNabb and Westbrook sitting out and Vick taking all the pre-game hype, Jackson showed that he can be a star in Philly too. His young QB, Kevin Kolb finished with 327 passing yards and rookie RB LeSean McCoy ran for 84 yards and a score. It helped playing the Chiefs but it does show that the Eagles may have a bright future.

WR Honorable Mention - Santana Moss, Washington - 10 catches, 178 yards, 1 TD (but you lost to the Lions!!!)

Game Used Sock Award - Jamarcus Russell, Oakland - 12/21, 61 yards, 0 TD, 2 Int
Although the Raiders have been a mess for a few years now, it looked as if they may actually be competive entering this season. They have good young talent at RB and WR and an improved defense. But it is hard to overcome a horrible quarterback. Russell has just one touchdown in three games to go with a total of 378 passing yards and four picks. That's not going to get it done on any level of football. The only thing that's going to get anyone is a dirty, stinky sock.

Stinky Sock Honorable Mention - Washington Redskins (after barely beating the Rams they lose to the Lions - ouch!

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QB Game Ball - Jay Cutler, Chicago - 27/38, 236 yards, 2 TD

There were plenty of QBs who finished with better numbers than Cutler on Sunday, but none may have needed a good game more than Cutler. The Bears new QB bombed last week against the Packers and faced a tough opponent on Sunday in the Steelers. But he overcame his mistakes and led his team to a big win over the Superbowl champs.

QB Honorable Mention - Phillip Rivers, San Diego - 25/45, 436 yards, 2 TD, 2 INT (impressive stats especially against a team like the Ravens.)

 

RB Game Ball - Cedric Benson, Cincinnati - 29 carries, 141 yards

Everyone knows the Bengals can throw the football but now with Benson as the primary back, they can run it too. He had a nice game in week one against the Broncos and followed that up with a huge performance in Green Bay. If he can keep it up the Bengals may start turning some heads around the NFL.

RB Honorable Mentions - Frank Gore, San Francisco & Chris Johnson, Tennessee (530 total combined yards and 5 TDs between the two studs.)

 

WR Game Ball - Andre Johnson, Houston - 10 catches, 149 yards, 2 TD

After grabbing just four passes last week, Johnson proved his worth against the Titans on Sunday. It's those type of numbers owners can expect from one of the top receivers in the league. And a healthy Kevin Walker will make him, and the Texans offense, even better.

WR Honorable Mention - Mike Sims-Walker, Jacksonville - 6 catches, 106 yards, 1 TD (this weeks top waiver-wire pick-up!)

 

TE Game Ball - Tony Gonzalez, Atlanta - 7 catches, 71 yards, 1 TD

Last week I gave Tony G an honorable mention. This week the award is all his. Many thought, inlcuding myself, that Gonzalez would just be a nice addition to the Falcons offense. It turns out he is becoming the main focus.

TE Honorable Mention - Chris Cooley Washington - 7 catches, 83 yards (just glad I didn't have to watch that 9-7 game.)

 

The Game Used Sock Award - Brady Quinn, Cleveland - 18/31, 0 TD, 1 Int

I always feel better when the Browns lose. and it is even nicer when they really stink it up. With Quinn at the helm that may be happening a lot this season. I'll admit I have him stashed away, deep on one of my fantasy teams that has unlimited roster spots. But I don't think I'll be starting him any time soon. For that matter, he may not be starting soon! Hey, look on the bright side - he finished with four rushing yards. And a couple of dirty socks.

Dirty Sock Honorable Mention - Tom Brady, New England - 23/47, 216 yards, 0 TD, 1 Int (no Wes Welker - whatever.)

Fantasy Football, NFL jay cutler, phillip rivers, cedric benson, frank gore, chris johnson, andre johnson, mike sims-walker

I have been writing this article for a few years now and I think it is time to change things up. Instead of trying to highlight a fantasy player from each NFL game, I'm going to give a game ball to the best performance at each of the offensive positions. And, as always, someone will earn a Dirty Sock.

QB Game Ball - Tony Romo, Dallas - 16/27, 353 yards, 3 TD
No T.O. - no problem. The Cowboys offense got off to a slow start against the Bucs but Romo eventually kicked things into gear. He ended up with three big touchdowns of 42, 66 and 80 yards - all to different receivers. Patrick Crayton caught that last one and finished with 135 yards receiving on the day. Tight end Jason Witten did not score but led the team with five catches and had 71 yards.

QB Honorable Mention - Drew Brees, New Orleans - 26/34, 358 yards, 6 TD, 1 Int (hey, it was against the Lions!)

 
RB Game Ball - Adrian Peterson, Minnesota - 25 carries, 180 yards, 3 TD
Sure, he's the top back in the game and he should do well against a team like the Browns. But 180 yards and three scores is very impressive. A lot of people will point out that Brett Favre won his first game as a Viking today, but Brett better give AP a nice pat on the rear.

RB Honorable Mention - Mike Bell, New Orleans - 28 carries, 143 yards (he's just filling in and, again, it was against the Lions!)

WR Game Ball - Reggie Wayne, Indianapolis - 10 catches, 162 yards, 1 TD
This summer it appeared that Wayne's stock had fallen amongst WRs. Sure, there are some exciting young guys out there like Larry Fitzgerald and Roddy White. But there was no reason to think Wayne was going to lose a step. And he certainly didn't against the Jags on Sunday. Peyton Manning found his favorite target early and often in a nice win for the Colts.

WR Honorable Mention - Tim Hightower, Arizona  - 12 catches, 121 yards (okay, not a WR but a heck of a performance.)

TE Game Ball - John Carlson, Seattle - 6 catches, 95 yards, 2 TD
If you are a regular at GSI then you know that Dan has been preaching depth at the TE position all summer long. Carlson is a good example of that depth. He was listed at No. 11 on our latest Cheat Sheet and if you grabbed him late in a draft he paid big dividends today. He's not going to score twice every game, but he is a great target for Matt Hasselbeck in what could be an explosive Seahawks' offense.

TE Honorable Mention - Tony Gonzalez, Atlanta - 5 catches, 73 yards, 1 TD (apparently not going to be overlooked in the talented Falcons offense.)

D/ST Game Balls - Joshua Cribbs, Cleveland - 67 yard punt return
Cribbs may be the best return man in football and started the season off with his 7th career TD. It is not advisable to pick up the Browns D/ST but if you are in a pinch, Cribbs may be able to come through for you. Opponents will score often against Cleveland so Cribbs will get plenty of returns!

D/ST Honorable Mention - Philadelphia Eagles - 5 Int, 2 Fum, 5 sacks, 1 punt ret TD (Just read the next award......)

The Game Used Sock Award - Jake Delhomme, QB, Carolina - 7/17, 73 yards, 4 int, 1 fum
The Panthers are coming off of a playoff season. They have an explosive running game. They have a couple of excellent WRs. The always have a solid Defense. And Jake Delhomme usually doesn't stink. But today he did. Really, really bad. I am not an expert on the Panthers or the Eagles for that matter. And I really didn't get to see much of that game. But something tells me that the Panthers embarassing loss was a fluke. Don't be surprised if, in December, everyone is looking back at week one wondering how Carolina lost that game. Either way, Delhomme is walking home wearing a couple of stinky socks.

Stinky Sock Honorable Mention - Steve Slaton, RB, Houston - 9 carries, 17 yards, 3 catches, 35 yards (if you spent a first round pick on this guy, be worried.) 

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Le'Ron McClain, RB, Baltimore - 22 carries, 139 yards, 1 TD
A few years ago the Ravens won it all with a solid running game and an excellent defense. They may be on track to do it again. Not only did McClain have a huge night against the Cowboys on Saturday, Willis McGahee added 108 yards of his own thanks to a 77-yard touchdown run. Joe Flacco threw for just 149 yards but did not turn the ball over. On the defensive side of the ball, Ed Reed stole the show with two interceptions. The Ravens still need one more win the clinch a playoff berth and if they do it, I wouldn't want to be the team to have to face them.

Phillip Rivers, QB, San Diego - 21/31, 287 yards, 4 TD
The Chargers kept their playoff hopes alive with a big win in Tampa. Rivers had another big game with two touchdowns to Antonio Gates. Darren Sproles and Brandon Manumaleuna each scored on screen plays while Vincent Jackson led the team with 111 yards on seven catches. Once again LaDainian Tomlinson had a disappointing day with 90 yards rushing and 20 receiving and did not score.

Jason Jones, DE, Tennessee - 4 Tackles, 3.5 sacks, 3 FF
In the absence of Albert Haynesworth the rookie Jones stepped up today for the Titans. Jones hit Ben Roethlisberger hard and often who in turn lost two fumbles and two interceptions. Justin Gage had the big day on offense for Tennesse with five catches for 104 yards and a touchdown. LenDale White and Chris Johnson combined for 117 rushing yards and each scored. The Titans win over the Steelers give them a much deserved home-field advantage throughout the playoffs.

Chad Pennington, QB, Miami - 26/34, 235 yards, 3 TD, 1 Int
Brett Favre may be going to the Pro-Bowl but it looks like it's Pennington that will be taking his team to the post-season. The Dolphins won a tough game in Kansas City thanks to the arm of their quarterback. Pennington found Anthony Fasano late in the fourth quarter for his second touchdown of the game and the defense held on for the teams' tenth victory. Pennington will have a chance to show the Jets the error of their ways next week when his team visits New York to play for the AFC East title. Stay tuned.

Cedric Benson, RB, Cincinnati - 38 carries, 171 yards
With a final score of 14-0 it may be suggested that the Bengals and Browns engaged in a defensive struggle. But in reality, it was more of a couple of inept offenses playing touch football in an empty lot. Benson nearly totalled more yards than the entire Browns offense which finished with 182. He did more than triple his quaterback's passing total of 55 yards. Cornerback Leon Hall deserves credit with three interceptions and running one of those back for a score.

Maurice Morris, RB, Seattle - 29 carries, 116 yards
In a season that has been lost for a while, the only thing the Seahawks have left to play is the role of the spoiler. And that's exactly what they did on Sunday. Seattle beat the Jets by holding them to just three points and then running the ball with Morris. Seneca Wallace was servicable with 175 yards and a score. But those numbers were better than the Jets' QB. Favre finished with 187 passing yards yards, no touchdowns, two interceptions and was sacked four times.

Jay Cutler, QB, Denver - 25/45, 359 pass yards, 8 carries, 30 rush yards, 2 TD
Cutler did all he could to beat the Bills and clinch the AFC West crown. He rushed the ball more times than any Bronco back. He hooked up with his pro-bowl receiver, Brandon Marshall, 10 times for 129 yards. But he also threw a late interception ending the Broncos chances to beat the Bills. It also did not help that he can't play defense as the Broncos continue to allow big points to their opponents. But they will have one more chance next week in San Diego to win the crown and move on to the playoffs.

Visanthe Shiancoe, TE, Minnesota - 7 ctaches, 136 yards, 2 TD
Shiancoe has a huge game against the Falcons but it was not enough to pull out a victory. Atlanta capitalized on Minnesota mistakes and clinched a playoff spot thanks the Bucs loss to the Chargers. The Vikings are still very much alive, however, and should not be too discouraged. Despite some fumbles and poor clock management, Tavaris Jackson did fairly well throwing for 233 yards and running for 76 more. The rest of the running game was shaky with Adrian Peterson finishing with just 76 yards.


The Game Used Sock Award
Kurt Warner, QB, Arizona - 6/18, 30 yards
Yes, there are a number of excuses for the play of Warner and the Cardinals in New England on Sunday. First, there's the whole 'west coast traveling to the east coat' thing. Then the couple of inches of snow and low temperatures didn't help. And, of course, Arizona already wrapped up a playoff berth and don't have much to play for. Oh yeah, Warner was without Anquan Boldin too. BALONEY. Fine, don't bring your 'A' game. Rest some players. Play some back-ups. And don't risk injuries. But 30 passing yards in two and a half quarters is pathetic in any scenario. And by the way, the other quarterback on the field threw for 345 yards and three touchdowns and his team may miss the playoffs. So Warner gets to fly back to the desert wearing his dirty socks. Hopefully they're those thermal-heated socks that hunters wear - not that it made a difference.

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Andre Johnson, WR, Houston - 11 catches, 207 yards, 1 TD
Johnson has been a top receiver all season and took his game to a higher level against the Titans on Sunday. His big game help the Texans give Tennessee just its second loss of the year. Matt Schaub finished with 284 yards and Steve Slaton had 100 on the ground. The Houston defense stymied the Titans who were held to just four field goals. While the game may not have an affect on the post-season it could go along way to help the confidence of a good, young Texans squad.

Tavaris Jackson, QB, Minnesota - 11/17, 163 yards, 4 TD
Okay, so Adrian Peterson had 165 yards on 28 carries - he's supposed to do that. The real story for the Vikings was Jackson. Not only did he throw four touchdown passes, he did not turn the ball over. Each of his four scores went to different players and none of them were Peterson. If this team makes the post-season it will be because of its running game and solid defense. But today Jackson showed he can manage the game when he needs to.

Phillip Rivers, QB, San Diego - 34/48, 346 yards, 2 TD, 1 Int
The Chargers squeaked out a win in Kansas City and kept their playoff hopes alive thanks to a late charge led by Rivers. Both his touchdown passes came in the fourth quarter and really for most of the game the Chargers did not look good. LaDainian Tomlinson ran for just 39 yards and the defense looked porous once again. But the Chargers can still win their division thanks to the win and a Broncos loss.

Marshawn Lynch, RB, Buffalo - 21 carries, 127 yards
While the Bills woes continue, Lynch continues to put up solid numbers. He was not expected to do much against a tough Jets defense but they weren't exactly on their game on Sunday. Other than Lynch, few players did well in this one. The quarterbacks combined for just 355 yards and five interceptions. Yet there were 58 points scored. Either way Lynch is a stud and should continue to produce for a long time in Buffalo.

Dallas Clark, TE, Indianapolis - 12 catches, 142 yards, 1 TD
The Colts kept on rolling in Detroit thanks to a big day from just about everybody. Peyton Manning finished with 318 yards and the one score to Clark. Reggie Wayne seven passes for 104 yards. And in place of an injured Josepg Addai, Dominic Rhodes ran for 86 yards and two touchdowns. The defense may have been suspect, giving up 21 points to the winless Lions. But still, few teams will want to face the Colts in the post-season.

Michael Turner, RB, Atlanta - 32 carries, 152 yards, 1 TD
Turner and the Falcons took advantage of a Buccaneers defense that suddenly looks like a sieve. (It has a lot of holes and things go through it easily.) Tampa's post-season hopes are beginning to fade as the Atlanta's are getting brighter. Matt Ryan was not as sharp as he has been, finishing with just 206 yards, no touchdowns and two interceptions. But with a running game of Turner and Jerius Norwood who needs to throw the ball?

Matt Cassel, QB, New England - 18/30, 218 yards, 4 TD, 1 Int
The Patriots scored seven touchdowns against the hapless Raiders. And while Cassel deserves plenty of credit, it is important to note that the Pats ran for 277 yards. Sammy Morris had 117, LaMont Jordan 97, Kevin Faulk 45 and Cassel 18. All of those running backs scored and so did Wes Welker and Randy Moss, twice. And while the Raiders mounted a comeback this game looked a lot like the ones the 2007 Patriots played.

Steve Smith, WR, Carolina - 9 catches, 165 yards, 1 TD
The Panthers may be the best team in the NFL. First, there's Smith who continues to put up monster numbers. His game helps Jake Delhomme look good. he finished with 253 yards and the score to Smith. DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart combined for 140 rushing yards and each scored. And the defense held the high-powered Broncos to just 10 points. So they can throw, they can run and they can stop the other team. Yeah, they're good.

Ben Roethlisberger, QB, Pittsburgh - 22/40, 246 yards, 1 TD
Big Ben threw for 85 yards in the Steelers final drive to pick up a big win in Baltimore. He hooked up with Santonio Holmes with just 43 seconds left to give Pittsburgh the win and the AFC North crown. Hines Ward also had a huge day with 107 yards on eight catches. And the defense did their job, holding the Ravens to just three field goals. If the Panthers aren't the best team in football then it's only because the Steelers are.


The Game Used Sock Award
Clinton Portis, RB, Washington - 25 carries, 77 yards
It was not that long ago that Portis was leading the league in rushing and the Redskins were thinking 'playoffs'. Well, a lot has changed in a few weeks. His 77 yards against the Bengals was the most he had in three games and the second highest total for him in six games. And Washington has lost all but one of those. To top it off, Portis has not scored since October 19. Heck, Ryan Fitzpatrick had a rushing touchdown against his team on Sunday! I, for one, am happy to have traded Portis in one of my leagues a few weeks ago. Sure, I missed the playoffs in that league but at least I'm not sharing a dirty sock with Portis today. (I put mine on a month ago.)

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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.

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