Neil Rackers, PK, Arizona. Bad news for thos lucky Rackers owners out there. The NFL's best most valuable kicker this season injured his left calf in practice Thursday and the team is scrambling to look for a replacement. Rackers is questionable to play this week, just in time for the fantasy playoffs.
Brandon Jones, WR, Tennessee. Jones, Tennessee's talented rookie receiver, is done for the season after tearing an ACL Sunday against San Francisco.
Trent Dilfer, QB, Cleveland. Dilfer returned to practice Thursday and should be ready to play against Jacksonville.
James Thrash, WR, Washington. Thrash was downgraded to out for Sunday because of a hamstring problem.
J.J. Arrington, RB, Arizona. Marvel Shipp is doubtful with a neck injury meaning Arrington, who has had a disappointing rookie seaosn, should get 15 or so carries this week against San Francisco.
Chester Taylor, RB, Baltimore. Taylor sat out Wednesday and is questionable to play this week.
Jeff Garcia, QB, Detroit. Garcia was back at practice Wednesday and is expected to start this week against Minnesota.
Fred Taylor, RB, Jacksonville. It looks like Taylor will be back this week after returning to practice Wednesday.
Marty Booker, WR, Miami. Booker missed practice Wednesday and is questionable to play Sunday.
Corey Dillon, RB, New England. Dillon missed some reps at practice Wednesday and will likely be a gametime decision Sunday. The Pats are never forthcoming with information. Running back Mike Cloud was released by the team, meaning the team likely feels Dillon will be ready.
Frank Gore, RB, San Francisco. Gore has a hip problem that could keep him out the rest of the season.
Jamie Martin. QB, St. Louis. Martin sat out practice Wednesday and is questionable with a concussion. Ryan Fitzpatrick could get his first NFL start Sunday against Washington.
With over 20 years of experience covering the Steelers for the Observer-Reporter, Dale Lolley will let you know the insider scoop. Dale can also be heard on the Steelers radio network pre-game show on WDVE-FM game days and Tuesday nights from 6 to 8 p.m. on ESPN 970-AM and WDVE during the season as a host of the Antonio Brown Show. Follow him on Twitter at @dlolleyor
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Wednesday, November 30, 2005
Tuesday, November 29, 2005
Week 12 wrap/Tuesday news
Being that I was in Indianapolis for the Colts' shellacking of the Steelers, I did not have a Monday follow-up report.
The big news of the weekend was Byron Leftwich breaking his left ankle Sunday. Leftwich is out at least four weeks and probably longer. David Garrard will take his place, but this is a serious blow to the Jaguars's passing game. Garrard is an accomplished scrambler, however.
Alex Smith, QB, San Francisco. Smith, the top pick in this year's draft, will be back behind center this week against the Cardinals. Don't expect much.
Ryan Fitzpatrick, QB, ST. Louis. Fitzpatrick replaced an injured Jamie Martin, who replaced an injured Marc Bulger, on Sunday and had the third-highest passing total in NFL history for a player making his debut with 310 yards. Martin checked out OK Tuesday from the blow to the head he took and it won't be decided until later this week who St. Louis' starter will be.
Matt Bryant, PK, Tampa Bay. Bryant has a strained hamstring and the team is trying out kickers to replace him this week if he's unable to go.
Jay Fielder, QB, Jets. Fielder should resume practice this week after dislocating his shoulder in Week 3 againts the Jaguars. Fiedler will be trying out for the starting job in 2006. He could be in the starting lineup as soon as next Sunday.
Any of the Colts. Bad news for Colts owners. Tony Dungy said Tuesday he doesn't care about the team going 16-0 this season and will rest his starters as soon as home field advantage is wrapped up. The only thing you can hope for is that Denver keeps on winning to push the Colts.
Trent Dilfer, QB, Cleveland. Dilfer underwent MRIs on both knees after getting beaten up at Minnesota. Charlie Fry replaced Dilfer against the Vikings, but Dilfer is expected to be OK to play against Jacksonville Sunday.
Tatum Bell, RB, Denver. After sitting out Thanksgiving day with a chest bruise, Bell should be back this week.
Bubba Franks, TE, Green Bay. Franks suffered a scary neck injury Sunday at Philadelphia, but looks to be OK.
Chester Taylor, RB, Baltimore. Taylor sat out Sunday's game at Cincinnati with a foot injury and Jamal Lewis had his best game of the season. X-rays on Taylor's foot were negative, but he could still be out this week against Houston. That would make Lewis a great play against the NFL's worst rushing defense.
The big news of the weekend was Byron Leftwich breaking his left ankle Sunday. Leftwich is out at least four weeks and probably longer. David Garrard will take his place, but this is a serious blow to the Jaguars's passing game. Garrard is an accomplished scrambler, however.
Alex Smith, QB, San Francisco. Smith, the top pick in this year's draft, will be back behind center this week against the Cardinals. Don't expect much.
Ryan Fitzpatrick, QB, ST. Louis. Fitzpatrick replaced an injured Jamie Martin, who replaced an injured Marc Bulger, on Sunday and had the third-highest passing total in NFL history for a player making his debut with 310 yards. Martin checked out OK Tuesday from the blow to the head he took and it won't be decided until later this week who St. Louis' starter will be.
Matt Bryant, PK, Tampa Bay. Bryant has a strained hamstring and the team is trying out kickers to replace him this week if he's unable to go.
Jay Fielder, QB, Jets. Fielder should resume practice this week after dislocating his shoulder in Week 3 againts the Jaguars. Fiedler will be trying out for the starting job in 2006. He could be in the starting lineup as soon as next Sunday.
Any of the Colts. Bad news for Colts owners. Tony Dungy said Tuesday he doesn't care about the team going 16-0 this season and will rest his starters as soon as home field advantage is wrapped up. The only thing you can hope for is that Denver keeps on winning to push the Colts.
Trent Dilfer, QB, Cleveland. Dilfer underwent MRIs on both knees after getting beaten up at Minnesota. Charlie Fry replaced Dilfer against the Vikings, but Dilfer is expected to be OK to play against Jacksonville Sunday.
Tatum Bell, RB, Denver. After sitting out Thanksgiving day with a chest bruise, Bell should be back this week.
Bubba Franks, TE, Green Bay. Franks suffered a scary neck injury Sunday at Philadelphia, but looks to be OK.
Chester Taylor, RB, Baltimore. Taylor sat out Sunday's game at Cincinnati with a foot injury and Jamal Lewis had his best game of the season. X-rays on Taylor's foot were negative, but he could still be out this week against Houston. That would make Lewis a great play against the NFL's worst rushing defense.
Friday, November 25, 2005
Week 12 Tips
Quarterbacks
Start Them:
Trent Green, Kansas City. Even though Larry Johnson is now the focus of the offense, everybody throws on New England.
Mike McMahon, Philadelphia. Go ahead. Roll the dice. McMahon should be able to put up some yards against Green Bay.
Steve McNair, Tennessee. McNair missed some practice time this week but should be good to go against San Francisco at home.
Bench Them:
Brad Johnson, Minnesota. Johnson's winning, but not putting up big numbers.
Jake Delhomme, Carolina. He had an awful week against Chicago and things won't be any better against Buffalo's pass defense.
Chris Simms, Tampa Bay. Simms has played better, but not this week against Chicago.
Running backs
Start Them:
Steven Jackson, St. Louis. Should find some nice holes against Houston.
Kevan Barlow, San Francisco. Gets to run against Tennessee this week.
Curtis Martin, Jets. Martin has been struggling, but should be good to go against the Saints.
Bench Them:
Heath Evans, New England. Patrick Pass is back this week.
Rudi Johnson, Cincinnati. The Ravens should be able to hold him in check.
Antowain Smith, New Orleans. Close to losing his job.
Wide receivers
Start Them:
Deion Branch, New England. Branch should get open against Kansas City.
Anquan Boldin, Arizona. He's healthy again. Get him in the lineup.
Plaxico Burress, Giants. The Giants promise a shootout in Seattle.
Bench Them:
Keenan McCardell, San Diego. If Gates doesn't play the Redskins can focus on him in the passing game.
T.J. Houshmandzadeh, Cincinnati. Will have a tough time against Baltimore.
Issac Bruce, St. Louis. Jamie Martin's the QB now.
Tight end
Start Them:
L.J. Smith, Philadelphia. He's their best receiving option now.
Todd Heap, Baltimore. Has struggled this year thanks to bad quarterbacking. But should reach the end zone this week.
Heath Miller, Pittsburgh. Is a mismatch against the Colts smallish secondary and linebackers.
Bench Them:
Randy McMichael, Miami. The Dolphins passing game is in a shambles.
Desmond Clark, Chicago. Tampa's defense is good, too.
Jermaine Wiggins, Minnesota. The Browns will try to force Brad Johnson to go downfield.
Start Them:
Trent Green, Kansas City. Even though Larry Johnson is now the focus of the offense, everybody throws on New England.
Mike McMahon, Philadelphia. Go ahead. Roll the dice. McMahon should be able to put up some yards against Green Bay.
Steve McNair, Tennessee. McNair missed some practice time this week but should be good to go against San Francisco at home.
Bench Them:
Brad Johnson, Minnesota. Johnson's winning, but not putting up big numbers.
Jake Delhomme, Carolina. He had an awful week against Chicago and things won't be any better against Buffalo's pass defense.
Chris Simms, Tampa Bay. Simms has played better, but not this week against Chicago.
Running backs
Start Them:
Steven Jackson, St. Louis. Should find some nice holes against Houston.
Kevan Barlow, San Francisco. Gets to run against Tennessee this week.
Curtis Martin, Jets. Martin has been struggling, but should be good to go against the Saints.
Bench Them:
Heath Evans, New England. Patrick Pass is back this week.
Rudi Johnson, Cincinnati. The Ravens should be able to hold him in check.
Antowain Smith, New Orleans. Close to losing his job.
Wide receivers
Start Them:
Deion Branch, New England. Branch should get open against Kansas City.
Anquan Boldin, Arizona. He's healthy again. Get him in the lineup.
Plaxico Burress, Giants. The Giants promise a shootout in Seattle.
Bench Them:
Keenan McCardell, San Diego. If Gates doesn't play the Redskins can focus on him in the passing game.
T.J. Houshmandzadeh, Cincinnati. Will have a tough time against Baltimore.
Issac Bruce, St. Louis. Jamie Martin's the QB now.
Tight end
Start Them:
L.J. Smith, Philadelphia. He's their best receiving option now.
Todd Heap, Baltimore. Has struggled this year thanks to bad quarterbacking. But should reach the end zone this week.
Heath Miller, Pittsburgh. Is a mismatch against the Colts smallish secondary and linebackers.
Bench Them:
Randy McMichael, Miami. The Dolphins passing game is in a shambles.
Desmond Clark, Chicago. Tampa's defense is good, too.
Jermaine Wiggins, Minnesota. The Browns will try to force Brad Johnson to go downfield.
Wednesday, November 23, 2005
Mid-week news
Terrell Owens, WR. Owens suspension by Philadelphia was upheld and the Eagles aren't about to let the disgruntled wideout go play elsewhere. Too bad for Owens owners.
Chester Taylor, RB, Baltimore. As expected earlier in the week, Taylor will receive more carries as the team decides whether to re-sign him or Jamal Lewis, both of whom are to be unrestricted free agents.
Tatum Bell, RB, Denver. Bell told reporters he's "definitely" playing Thursday at Dallas.
Jef Garcia, QB, Detroit. Steve Mariucci has played it close to the vest this week with his quarterback situation, not saying if Garcia or Joey Harrington would get the start. Last week, the coach said Garcia's the starter when healthy. The two divided practice time Tuesday. Reporters weren't allowed in practice though, so who really knows. What a mess.
Samko Gado, RB, Green Bay. Samko, we hardly knew ya. Gado has had fumble problems and will likely lose playing time to Travis Fisher, who's healthy once again.
Ben Roethlisberger, QB, Steelers. Roethlisberger was back working with the first-team offense Wednesday and appears to be a safe play against Indianapolis this week.
Chester Taylor, RB, Baltimore. As expected earlier in the week, Taylor will receive more carries as the team decides whether to re-sign him or Jamal Lewis, both of whom are to be unrestricted free agents.
Tatum Bell, RB, Denver. Bell told reporters he's "definitely" playing Thursday at Dallas.
Jef Garcia, QB, Detroit. Steve Mariucci has played it close to the vest this week with his quarterback situation, not saying if Garcia or Joey Harrington would get the start. Last week, the coach said Garcia's the starter when healthy. The two divided practice time Tuesday. Reporters weren't allowed in practice though, so who really knows. What a mess.
Samko Gado, RB, Green Bay. Samko, we hardly knew ya. Gado has had fumble problems and will likely lose playing time to Travis Fisher, who's healthy once again.
Ben Roethlisberger, QB, Steelers. Roethlisberger was back working with the first-team offense Wednesday and appears to be a safe play against Indianapolis this week.
Tuesday, November 22, 2005
Tuesday news and notes
Ben Roethlisberger, QB, Pittsburgh. Roethlisberger is probable to return this week at Indianapolis after being out the last three games.
Marc Bulger, QB, St. Louis. It appears that Bulger could be out the rest of the season with his shoulder injury, which is worse than the one he suffered last month. Downgrade your St. Louis receivers if this is the case. Jamie Martin will be the starter once again.
Tatum Bell, RB, Denver. Bell is questionable to play this week with his bruised chest. Again, don't count on him this week on a short schedule.
Donovan McNabb, QB, Philadelphia. It's official, McNabb's season is done as he was placed on injured reserve.
Darrell Jackson, WR, Seattle. Jackson will get some practice time this week for the Seahawks, but it's unlikely he'll play this week against the Giants as his knee injury is still bothering him. Seattle is easily in control of the NFC West and can afford not to rush Jackson back.
Rex Grossman, QB, Chicago. Grossman could return to full practice this week after running scout team last week. Kyle Orton has played well enough to continue starting, however.
Marc Bulger, QB, St. Louis. It appears that Bulger could be out the rest of the season with his shoulder injury, which is worse than the one he suffered last month. Downgrade your St. Louis receivers if this is the case. Jamie Martin will be the starter once again.
Tatum Bell, RB, Denver. Bell is questionable to play this week with his bruised chest. Again, don't count on him this week on a short schedule.
Donovan McNabb, QB, Philadelphia. It's official, McNabb's season is done as he was placed on injured reserve.
Darrell Jackson, WR, Seattle. Jackson will get some practice time this week for the Seahawks, but it's unlikely he'll play this week against the Giants as his knee injury is still bothering him. Seattle is easily in control of the NFC West and can afford not to rush Jackson back.
Rex Grossman, QB, Chicago. Grossman could return to full practice this week after running scout team last week. Kyle Orton has played well enough to continue starting, however.
Monday, November 21, 2005
Week 11 follow-up
Donovan McNabb, QB, Philadelphia. Just in time for the playoffs McNabb has decided to have surgery to repair his sports hernia and will be done for the year. Happy Thanksgiving. Mike McMahon will continue to start for the Eagles.
Marc Bulger, QB, St. Louis. Bulger is out again with a shoulder injury and concussion Sunday and will be out for at least a couple of weeks. It's the same injury that sidelined him earlier this season.
Brooks Bollinger, QB, Jets. Bollinger will start Sunday against New Orleans after being knocked out of Sunday's game with a concussion. Bollinger's not a recommended starter, however, even against the Saints.
Jamal Lewis, RB, Baltimore. Lewis is going to start losing carries to Chester Taylor. With Lewis a free agent at the end of the season, the team wants to see if Taylor can be a feature back.
Antonio Gates, TE, San Diego. gates suffered a sprained foot in the win over Buffalo, but said he plans to try to play this week. I wouldn't count on that, but he won't be out long-term, which is good news.
Cadillac Williams, RB, Tampa Bay. The Cadillac was back in good form against Atlanta Sunday. He's still not 100 percent, but that game should help his confidence.
Tatum Bell, RB, Denver. Bell injured his shoulder against the Jets, but head coach Mike Shanahan said Bell should be OK to play Thursday at Dallas. Wait and see.
Fred Taylor, RB, Jacksonville. Taylor's attempted comeback Sunday didn't last long as he left in the third quarter with a bruised thigh. Taylor's talent has never been questioned. His toughness, however, is lacking. Backup Greg Jones should be a solid play at Arizona.
Tiki Barber, RB, Giants. Barber injured his foot Sunday, but appears to be OK.
James Thrash, WR, Washington. Already missing David Patten, the Redskins lost another wideout when Thrash pulled his hamstring Sunday.
Marc Bulger, QB, St. Louis. Bulger is out again with a shoulder injury and concussion Sunday and will be out for at least a couple of weeks. It's the same injury that sidelined him earlier this season.
Brooks Bollinger, QB, Jets. Bollinger will start Sunday against New Orleans after being knocked out of Sunday's game with a concussion. Bollinger's not a recommended starter, however, even against the Saints.
Jamal Lewis, RB, Baltimore. Lewis is going to start losing carries to Chester Taylor. With Lewis a free agent at the end of the season, the team wants to see if Taylor can be a feature back.
Antonio Gates, TE, San Diego. gates suffered a sprained foot in the win over Buffalo, but said he plans to try to play this week. I wouldn't count on that, but he won't be out long-term, which is good news.
Cadillac Williams, RB, Tampa Bay. The Cadillac was back in good form against Atlanta Sunday. He's still not 100 percent, but that game should help his confidence.
Tatum Bell, RB, Denver. Bell injured his shoulder against the Jets, but head coach Mike Shanahan said Bell should be OK to play Thursday at Dallas. Wait and see.
Fred Taylor, RB, Jacksonville. Taylor's attempted comeback Sunday didn't last long as he left in the third quarter with a bruised thigh. Taylor's talent has never been questioned. His toughness, however, is lacking. Backup Greg Jones should be a solid play at Arizona.
Tiki Barber, RB, Giants. Barber injured his foot Sunday, but appears to be OK.
James Thrash, WR, Washington. Already missing David Patten, the Redskins lost another wideout when Thrash pulled his hamstring Sunday.
Friday, November 18, 2005
Week 11 Tips
Quarterbacks
Start Them:
Tom Brady, New England. Should light up the Saints secondary.
Marc Bulger, St. Louis. Now that he's got a week of play under his belt, get him in the lineup against Arizona's awful pass defense.
Kurt Warner, Arizona. Will have to throw plenty to keep up with former teammates.
Bench Them:
Kelly Holcomb, Buffalo. Won't play this week and may be losing his job to J.P. Losman.
Steve McNair, Tennessee. Will struggle against Jacksonville.
Jake Delhomme, Carolina. Throwing the ball will be tough at Chicago. And that's if they don't get 70 MPH wind gusts.
Running backs
Start Them:
Larry Johnson, Kansas City. He did his part against Buffalo - except for getting into the end zone. He'll add at least one TD this week.
Clinton Portis, Washington. Should find plenty of running room against Oakland.
Greg Jones, Jacksonville. Fred Taylor will sit again this week and the Jaguars play Tennessee.
Samkon Gado, Green Bay. Gado should be a strong start again this week.
Bench Them:
Duce Staley, Pittsburgh. Goes back to the bench with Willie Parker, Jerome Bettis healthy.
Willis McGahee, Buffalo. San Diego's specialty is stopping the run.
Stephen Davis, Carolina. Faces the NFL's top-rated defense.
Wide receivers
Start Them:
Larry Fitzgerald, Arizona. Leads the NFL in receptions.
Joey Galloway, Tampa Bay. Quitely having a great season.
Joe Horn, New Orleans. Patriots are struggling against the pass.
Antonio Chatman, Green Bay. Benefits from Robert Ferguson's injury Friday
Bench Them:
Muhsin Muhammad. Chicago. Will struggle in first game against his former team.
Antonio Bryant, Cleveland. Could struggle against the Dolphins.
Nate Burleson, Minnesota. Was downgraded Friday. He's not seriously hurt, but these nagging things are adding up.
Tight ends
Start Them:
Chris Cooley, Washington. Quitely having a nice season.
Jerramy Stevens, Seattle. Could reach the end zone against San Francisco.
Ben Watson, New England. Becoming a bigger part of the offense.
Bench Them:
Desmond Clark, Chicago. Carolina's defense will get after Kyle Orton.
Steve Heiden, Cleveland. Will do a lot of extra blocking against Miami.
Brandon Manumaeuna, St. Louis. The stars are back for the Rams.
Start Them:
Tom Brady, New England. Should light up the Saints secondary.
Marc Bulger, St. Louis. Now that he's got a week of play under his belt, get him in the lineup against Arizona's awful pass defense.
Kurt Warner, Arizona. Will have to throw plenty to keep up with former teammates.
Bench Them:
Kelly Holcomb, Buffalo. Won't play this week and may be losing his job to J.P. Losman.
Steve McNair, Tennessee. Will struggle against Jacksonville.
Jake Delhomme, Carolina. Throwing the ball will be tough at Chicago. And that's if they don't get 70 MPH wind gusts.
Running backs
Start Them:
Larry Johnson, Kansas City. He did his part against Buffalo - except for getting into the end zone. He'll add at least one TD this week.
Clinton Portis, Washington. Should find plenty of running room against Oakland.
Greg Jones, Jacksonville. Fred Taylor will sit again this week and the Jaguars play Tennessee.
Samkon Gado, Green Bay. Gado should be a strong start again this week.
Bench Them:
Duce Staley, Pittsburgh. Goes back to the bench with Willie Parker, Jerome Bettis healthy.
Willis McGahee, Buffalo. San Diego's specialty is stopping the run.
Stephen Davis, Carolina. Faces the NFL's top-rated defense.
Wide receivers
Start Them:
Larry Fitzgerald, Arizona. Leads the NFL in receptions.
Joey Galloway, Tampa Bay. Quitely having a great season.
Joe Horn, New Orleans. Patriots are struggling against the pass.
Antonio Chatman, Green Bay. Benefits from Robert Ferguson's injury Friday
Bench Them:
Muhsin Muhammad. Chicago. Will struggle in first game against his former team.
Antonio Bryant, Cleveland. Could struggle against the Dolphins.
Nate Burleson, Minnesota. Was downgraded Friday. He's not seriously hurt, but these nagging things are adding up.
Tight ends
Start Them:
Chris Cooley, Washington. Quitely having a nice season.
Jerramy Stevens, Seattle. Could reach the end zone against San Francisco.
Ben Watson, New England. Becoming a bigger part of the offense.
Bench Them:
Desmond Clark, Chicago. Carolina's defense will get after Kyle Orton.
Steve Heiden, Cleveland. Will do a lot of extra blocking against Miami.
Brandon Manumaeuna, St. Louis. The stars are back for the Rams.
Wednesday, November 16, 2005
Mid-week news and notes
Donovan McNabb, WB, Philadelphia. McNabb is definitely out this week and has been told to have surgery to repair his sports hernia, something that would end his season. Mike McMahon will make his first start as a member of the Eagles. McMahon is better as a scrambler than a passer.
Ben Roethlisberger, QB, Pittsburgh. Tommy Maddox will start in place of Roethlisberger this week at Baltimore, though Roethlisberger could be available.
Willie Parker, RB, Pittsburgh. Willie Parker will start this week at running back for the Steelers after being out last week with an ankle injury. Duce Staley will apparently be the odd man out.
Thomas Jones, RB, Chicago. Jones was fitted for additional padding to protect his injured ribs and should be back this week against Carolina. Adrian Peterson is still a strong pickup this week.
Ken Dorsey, QB, San Francisco. Dorsey will start for the 49ers this week. Alex Smith returned to practice as well Wednesday and will be No. 2 on the depth chart.
David Patten, WR, Washington. Patten is doubtful this week with a sore knee and has not practiced. James Thrash would start in his place.
Gus Frerotte, QB, Miami. Frerotte remains questionable with a finger injury this week. Sage Rosenfels would start in his place if he is unable to play.
Anquan Boldin, WR, Arizona. Boldin did not practice Wednesday and remains questionable to play Sunday.
Bryant Johnson, WR, Arizona. As expected Johnson was ruled out for Sunday.
Cedric Benson, RB, Chicago. Benson is out three to six weeks with his sprained knee.
Jeff Garcia, QB, Detroit. Garcia was able to get through practice Wednesday. Head coach Steve Mariucci said Tuesday if Garcia is healthy, he's the team's starter.
Robert Ferguson, WR, Green Bay. Ferguson practiced Wednesday for the first time in several weeks after spraining his knee a few weeks back.
Fred Taylor, RB, Jacksonville. Taylor skipped practice Wednesday and remains doubtful with his ankle sprain. Greg Jones would start again in his place.
Jimmy Smith, WR, Jacksonville. Smith sat out Wednesday with a hamstring injury and is questionable.
Ernest Wilford, WR, Jacksonville. Despite a sprained shoulder, Wilford practiced Wednesday.
Ben Roethlisberger, QB, Pittsburgh. Tommy Maddox will start in place of Roethlisberger this week at Baltimore, though Roethlisberger could be available.
Willie Parker, RB, Pittsburgh. Willie Parker will start this week at running back for the Steelers after being out last week with an ankle injury. Duce Staley will apparently be the odd man out.
Thomas Jones, RB, Chicago. Jones was fitted for additional padding to protect his injured ribs and should be back this week against Carolina. Adrian Peterson is still a strong pickup this week.
Ken Dorsey, QB, San Francisco. Dorsey will start for the 49ers this week. Alex Smith returned to practice as well Wednesday and will be No. 2 on the depth chart.
David Patten, WR, Washington. Patten is doubtful this week with a sore knee and has not practiced. James Thrash would start in his place.
Gus Frerotte, QB, Miami. Frerotte remains questionable with a finger injury this week. Sage Rosenfels would start in his place if he is unable to play.
Anquan Boldin, WR, Arizona. Boldin did not practice Wednesday and remains questionable to play Sunday.
Bryant Johnson, WR, Arizona. As expected Johnson was ruled out for Sunday.
Cedric Benson, RB, Chicago. Benson is out three to six weeks with his sprained knee.
Jeff Garcia, QB, Detroit. Garcia was able to get through practice Wednesday. Head coach Steve Mariucci said Tuesday if Garcia is healthy, he's the team's starter.
Robert Ferguson, WR, Green Bay. Ferguson practiced Wednesday for the first time in several weeks after spraining his knee a few weeks back.
Fred Taylor, RB, Jacksonville. Taylor skipped practice Wednesday and remains doubtful with his ankle sprain. Greg Jones would start again in his place.
Jimmy Smith, WR, Jacksonville. Smith sat out Wednesday with a hamstring injury and is questionable.
Ernest Wilford, WR, Jacksonville. Despite a sprained shoulder, Wilford practiced Wednesday.
Tuesday, November 15, 2005
Tuesday news and notes
Donovan McNabb, QB, Philadelphia. McNabb took a beating in Monda night's improbable loss to Dallas and is likely out of Sunday's game against the Giants. He was replaced by Mike McMahon for Philadelphia's final possession, but Koy Detmer is the team's No. 2 quarterback. It's uncertain which one would replace McNabb against the Giants.
Ben Roethlisberger, QB, Pittsburgh. It's looking more and more like Roethlisberger will play Sunday at Baltimore. If not, Tommy Maddox will make his second start of the season.
Bryant Johnson, WR, Arizona. Johnson likely won't play Sunday because of a sprained shoulder.
Anquan Boldin, WR, Arizona. Boldin will test his sore knee Wednesday and could be available this week against St. Louis.
Trent Dilfer, QB, Cleveland. Despite constant questions about his play, coach Romeo Crennel said Dilfer will continue to be the team's starter. Rookie Charlie Frye will get a shot sooner or later.
Gus Frerotte, QB, Miami. Frerotte injured his right index finger in Sunday's loss to New England and has a good deal of swelling. The finger is not broken, however.
Drew Bennett, WR, Tennessee. Bennett could be back at practice this week from his thumb surgery. Whether he plays against Jacksonville this week or returns next week remains to be seen.
Jeff Garcia, QB, Detroit. Despite the best game of his season, Joey Harrington will go back to the bench against Dallas this week if Jeff Garcia is healthy again according to head coach Steve Mariucci.
Willie Parker, RB, Pittsburgh. It looks like Parker will sit again this week because of an "ankle sprain." But Parker's injury seems to coincide with Duce Staley's strong running and head coach Bill Cowher doesn't want to rock the boat.
Ben Roethlisberger, QB, Pittsburgh. It's looking more and more like Roethlisberger will play Sunday at Baltimore. If not, Tommy Maddox will make his second start of the season.
Bryant Johnson, WR, Arizona. Johnson likely won't play Sunday because of a sprained shoulder.
Anquan Boldin, WR, Arizona. Boldin will test his sore knee Wednesday and could be available this week against St. Louis.
Trent Dilfer, QB, Cleveland. Despite constant questions about his play, coach Romeo Crennel said Dilfer will continue to be the team's starter. Rookie Charlie Frye will get a shot sooner or later.
Gus Frerotte, QB, Miami. Frerotte injured his right index finger in Sunday's loss to New England and has a good deal of swelling. The finger is not broken, however.
Drew Bennett, WR, Tennessee. Bennett could be back at practice this week from his thumb surgery. Whether he plays against Jacksonville this week or returns next week remains to be seen.
Jeff Garcia, QB, Detroit. Despite the best game of his season, Joey Harrington will go back to the bench against Dallas this week if Jeff Garcia is healthy again according to head coach Steve Mariucci.
Willie Parker, RB, Pittsburgh. It looks like Parker will sit again this week because of an "ankle sprain." But Parker's injury seems to coincide with Duce Staley's strong running and head coach Bill Cowher doesn't want to rock the boat.
Monday, November 14, 2005
Week 10 Monday wrap
Cedric Benson, RB, Chicago. With Thomas Jones already hurting, Benson got his first NFL start Sunday. But he lasted just over a quarter before spraining his MCL, an injury that could cost him the rest of the season. Third-stringer Adrian Peterson had a 100-yard game in his place and could be the starter next week.
Leron McCoy, QR, Arizona. With Anquan Boldin and Bryant Johnson out, McCoy got extensive playing time and made the most of it with six catches for 70 yards. Boldin may be back this week, though, so temper that enthusiasm.
Charlie Batch, QB, Pittsburgh. Batch, starting in place of injured Ben Roethlisberger, suffered a broken bone in his throwing hand Sunday night. Roethlisberger could be back this week at Baltimore, though. If not, Tommy Maddox starts for the Steelers at Baltimore.
Kelly Holcomb, QB, Buffalo. Holcomb suffered a concussion in the team's 14-3 win over Kansas City. J.P. Losman, who began the season as the team's starter, replaced him and played well, throwing a pair of TD passes to Lee Evans. Losman will likely start again this week against San Diego.
Ernest Wilford, WR, Jacksonville. Wilford suffered a sprained shoulder in the fourth quarter of the team's win over Baltimore.
Dante Hall, WR/KR, Kansas City. Hall suffered a bruised left knee against Buffalo. If he's unable to play Sunday, bump the KDC defense down a notch.
Corey Dillon, RB, New England. Dillon lasted two plays against Miami before leaving with a tight calf. That's not a good sign for Dillon owners. New England is typically tough to get injury information out of.
Jay Fiedler, QB, Jets. Fiedler is a week or two away from returning from a dislocated throwing shoulder. Given the Jets' QB situation, he could be the starter when he returns.
Samkon Gado, RB, Green Bay. I told you to pick up Gado last week. If you missed out on getting him, it may be too late after he scored three touchdowns against Atlanta.
Leron McCoy, QR, Arizona. With Anquan Boldin and Bryant Johnson out, McCoy got extensive playing time and made the most of it with six catches for 70 yards. Boldin may be back this week, though, so temper that enthusiasm.
Charlie Batch, QB, Pittsburgh. Batch, starting in place of injured Ben Roethlisberger, suffered a broken bone in his throwing hand Sunday night. Roethlisberger could be back this week at Baltimore, though. If not, Tommy Maddox starts for the Steelers at Baltimore.
Kelly Holcomb, QB, Buffalo. Holcomb suffered a concussion in the team's 14-3 win over Kansas City. J.P. Losman, who began the season as the team's starter, replaced him and played well, throwing a pair of TD passes to Lee Evans. Losman will likely start again this week against San Diego.
Ernest Wilford, WR, Jacksonville. Wilford suffered a sprained shoulder in the fourth quarter of the team's win over Baltimore.
Dante Hall, WR/KR, Kansas City. Hall suffered a bruised left knee against Buffalo. If he's unable to play Sunday, bump the KDC defense down a notch.
Corey Dillon, RB, New England. Dillon lasted two plays against Miami before leaving with a tight calf. That's not a good sign for Dillon owners. New England is typically tough to get injury information out of.
Jay Fiedler, QB, Jets. Fiedler is a week or two away from returning from a dislocated throwing shoulder. Given the Jets' QB situation, he could be the starter when he returns.
Samkon Gado, RB, Green Bay. I told you to pick up Gado last week. If you missed out on getting him, it may be too late after he scored three touchdowns against Atlanta.
Friday, November 11, 2005
Week 10 Tips
Quarterbacks
Start Them:
Eli Manning, Giants. The Giants score points in bunches at home and Manning faces a Minnesota squad that stuggles outdoors - and everywhere else.
Michael Vick, Atlanta. Green Bay's defense is so bad Vick should pass for 200 yards and could rush for 100.
Marc Bulger, St. Louis. He's finally back from his shoulder injury. Torry Holt and Isaac Bruce look like they're back as well.
Jake Delhomme, Carolina. The Panthers have won five straight and Delhomme has had a 100-plus QB rating in each of those wins. He and Steve Smith, they got a thing going on.
Bench Them:
Drew Bledsoe, Dallas. Just a feeling here, but I expect the Eagles to blitz the lead-footed Bledsoe a lot.
Trent Green, Kansas City. Green isn't producing touchdowns this season and the Chiefs figure to run the ball a lot against a Bills team that allows 150 per game on the ground.
Gus Frerotte, Miami. The Patriots are banged up in the secondary, but Frerotte just hasn't gotten the job done.
Start Them:
Larry Johnson, Kansas City. What a bonanza for Johnson owners. Priest Holmes is done for the year and the Bills defense is on deck.
Lamont Jordan. Oakland. Quietly having a Pro Bowl season. He's catching plenty of passes.
Mike Anderson, Denver. Anderson should rip up the Oakland defense.
Cedric Benson, Chicago. They're going to let the kid run this week.
Bench Them:
Willie Parker, Pittsburgh. Has been banged up all week and Duce Staley will start.
Rueben Droughns, Cleveland. The Steelers haven't allowed a 100-yard rusher in more than a year.
Fred Taylor, Jacksonville. Won't play this week. Greg Jones gets the call.
Marion Barber, Dallas. When we last saw him, he was getting 100 yards. But Julius Jones is back this week. They could share carries.
Wide Receivers
Start Them:
Larry Fitzgerald, Arizona. He seems to be the only healthy Arizona receiver.
Reggie Brown, Philadelphia. He will be the Eagles top receiver the rest of the year.
Eric Moulds, Buffalo. Moulds is quietly having a nice season.
Bobby Engram, Seattle. Get him back in the lineup.
Bench Them:
Jimmy Smith, Jacksonville. Where has he disappeared to?
Eddie Kennison, Kansas City. Will suffer from Larry Johnson's emergence.
Doug Gabriel, Oakland. Randy Moss is getting more healthy.
Scotty Vines, Detroit. Don't believe the hype.
Tight Ends
Start Them:
Alge Crumpler, Atlanta. Everything points to a big day.
Jason Witten, Dallas. Best way to beat the blitz is to throw to the tight end.
Jerame Stevens, Seattle. Should benefit from a shootout.
Bench Them:
Dallas Clark, Indianapolis. Just hasn't become the star everyone expected.
Courtney Anderson, Oakland. Way too inconsistent.
L.J. Smith, Philadelphia. Dallas will concentrate on stopping Smith and Bryan Westbrook.
Start Them:
Eli Manning, Giants. The Giants score points in bunches at home and Manning faces a Minnesota squad that stuggles outdoors - and everywhere else.
Michael Vick, Atlanta. Green Bay's defense is so bad Vick should pass for 200 yards and could rush for 100.
Marc Bulger, St. Louis. He's finally back from his shoulder injury. Torry Holt and Isaac Bruce look like they're back as well.
Jake Delhomme, Carolina. The Panthers have won five straight and Delhomme has had a 100-plus QB rating in each of those wins. He and Steve Smith, they got a thing going on.
Bench Them:
Drew Bledsoe, Dallas. Just a feeling here, but I expect the Eagles to blitz the lead-footed Bledsoe a lot.
Trent Green, Kansas City. Green isn't producing touchdowns this season and the Chiefs figure to run the ball a lot against a Bills team that allows 150 per game on the ground.
Gus Frerotte, Miami. The Patriots are banged up in the secondary, but Frerotte just hasn't gotten the job done.
Start Them:
Larry Johnson, Kansas City. What a bonanza for Johnson owners. Priest Holmes is done for the year and the Bills defense is on deck.
Lamont Jordan. Oakland. Quietly having a Pro Bowl season. He's catching plenty of passes.
Mike Anderson, Denver. Anderson should rip up the Oakland defense.
Cedric Benson, Chicago. They're going to let the kid run this week.
Bench Them:
Willie Parker, Pittsburgh. Has been banged up all week and Duce Staley will start.
Rueben Droughns, Cleveland. The Steelers haven't allowed a 100-yard rusher in more than a year.
Fred Taylor, Jacksonville. Won't play this week. Greg Jones gets the call.
Marion Barber, Dallas. When we last saw him, he was getting 100 yards. But Julius Jones is back this week. They could share carries.
Wide Receivers
Start Them:
Larry Fitzgerald, Arizona. He seems to be the only healthy Arizona receiver.
Reggie Brown, Philadelphia. He will be the Eagles top receiver the rest of the year.
Eric Moulds, Buffalo. Moulds is quietly having a nice season.
Bobby Engram, Seattle. Get him back in the lineup.
Bench Them:
Jimmy Smith, Jacksonville. Where has he disappeared to?
Eddie Kennison, Kansas City. Will suffer from Larry Johnson's emergence.
Doug Gabriel, Oakland. Randy Moss is getting more healthy.
Scotty Vines, Detroit. Don't believe the hype.
Tight Ends
Start Them:
Alge Crumpler, Atlanta. Everything points to a big day.
Jason Witten, Dallas. Best way to beat the blitz is to throw to the tight end.
Jerame Stevens, Seattle. Should benefit from a shootout.
Bench Them:
Dallas Clark, Indianapolis. Just hasn't become the star everyone expected.
Courtney Anderson, Oakland. Way too inconsistent.
L.J. Smith, Philadelphia. Dallas will concentrate on stopping Smith and Bryan Westbrook.
Wednesday, November 09, 2005
Mid-week news
Joey Harrington, QB, Detroit. It's official, Harrington will start this week in place of injured Jeff Garcia.
Marc Bulger, QB, St. Louis. Bulger will start Sunday against Seattle.
Torry Holt, WR, St. Louis. Holt should be back this week against Seattle.
Issac Bruce, WR, St. Louis. Bruce has practiced all week but remains questionable to play Sunday.
Michael Clayton, WR, Tampa Bay. Clayton is out this week with a knee injury. Ike Hilliard will start.
Robert Ferguson, WR, Green Bay. Ferguson has yet to practice this week and could still be a week away from returning.
Priest Holmes, RB, Kansas City. Forget the Terrell Owens debacle. The news that will really have fantasy owners reeling this week is that Priest Holmes is done for the season because of a lump found on his spine while he was being checked over after suffering a concussion. Larry Johnson owners are rejoicing.
Julius Jones, RB, Dallas. Jones should be back this week after not having played since Oct. 9. Whether he regains his starting job by himself or shares carries remains to be seen.
Anquan Boldin, WR, Arizona. Boldin is out again this week with his bone bruise in his knee.
Thomas Jones, RB, Chicago. Don't count on Jones this week. His ribs are still bothering him and the team would like to take a look at Cedric Benson.
Lee Suggs, RB, Cleveland. Suggs was back from his thumb injury Wednesday. He remains questionable this week.
Roy Williams, WR, Detroit. Williams got just three plays in his "return" last week, but should see more playing time this week with Mike Williams likely out.
Samko Gado, RB, Green Bay. With Tony Fisher out this week with a rib injury, Gado will get his first career start this week.
Domanick Davis, RB, Houston. Davis took part in practice Wednesday despite his sore knee and should play Sunday.
Fred Taylor, RB, Jacksonville. Don't expect Taylor to play this week because of a very sore ankle. Greg Jones will start in his place.
Mewelde Moore, RB, Minnesota. Moore practiced Wednesday despite a wrist injury. He should play Sunday.
Marc Bulger, QB, St. Louis. Bulger will start Sunday against Seattle.
Torry Holt, WR, St. Louis. Holt should be back this week against Seattle.
Issac Bruce, WR, St. Louis. Bruce has practiced all week but remains questionable to play Sunday.
Michael Clayton, WR, Tampa Bay. Clayton is out this week with a knee injury. Ike Hilliard will start.
Robert Ferguson, WR, Green Bay. Ferguson has yet to practice this week and could still be a week away from returning.
Priest Holmes, RB, Kansas City. Forget the Terrell Owens debacle. The news that will really have fantasy owners reeling this week is that Priest Holmes is done for the season because of a lump found on his spine while he was being checked over after suffering a concussion. Larry Johnson owners are rejoicing.
Julius Jones, RB, Dallas. Jones should be back this week after not having played since Oct. 9. Whether he regains his starting job by himself or shares carries remains to be seen.
Anquan Boldin, WR, Arizona. Boldin is out again this week with his bone bruise in his knee.
Thomas Jones, RB, Chicago. Don't count on Jones this week. His ribs are still bothering him and the team would like to take a look at Cedric Benson.
Lee Suggs, RB, Cleveland. Suggs was back from his thumb injury Wednesday. He remains questionable this week.
Roy Williams, WR, Detroit. Williams got just three plays in his "return" last week, but should see more playing time this week with Mike Williams likely out.
Samko Gado, RB, Green Bay. With Tony Fisher out this week with a rib injury, Gado will get his first career start this week.
Domanick Davis, RB, Houston. Davis took part in practice Wednesday despite his sore knee and should play Sunday.
Fred Taylor, RB, Jacksonville. Don't expect Taylor to play this week because of a very sore ankle. Greg Jones will start in his place.
Mewelde Moore, RB, Minnesota. Moore practiced Wednesday despite a wrist injury. He should play Sunday.
Tuesday news and notes
Priest Holmes, RB, Kansas City. Holmes still hasn't been cleared to play this week at Buffalo after suffering a concussion two weeks ago at San Diego. I'll keep an eye on this situation.
Ben Roethlisberger, QB, Steelers. Roethlisberger will sit again this week after having minor knee surgery last week. Charlie Batch will make his second straight start.
Duce Staley, RB, Steelers. Head coach Bill Cowher said Staley will likely start this week against Cleveland with Jerome Bettis and Willie Parker both questionable.
Michael Bennett, RB, Minnesota. Bennett may have gotten himself out of the doghouse with a 106-yard performance against Detroit.
Marc Bulger, QB, St. Louis. Bulger should be back from his shoulder injury this week.
Torry Holt, WR, St. Louis. Like Bulger, Holt will be back this week.
Issac Bruce, WR, St. Louis. Bruce's turf toe is still bothering him, but he could be back this week. He's still questionable, though.
Anthony Thomas, RB, New Orleans. Thomas was signed by the Saints to compete with Aaron Stecker as a backup to Antowain Smith. Thomas was released by Dallas last week.
Ben Roethlisberger, QB, Steelers. Roethlisberger will sit again this week after having minor knee surgery last week. Charlie Batch will make his second straight start.
Duce Staley, RB, Steelers. Head coach Bill Cowher said Staley will likely start this week against Cleveland with Jerome Bettis and Willie Parker both questionable.
Michael Bennett, RB, Minnesota. Bennett may have gotten himself out of the doghouse with a 106-yard performance against Detroit.
Marc Bulger, QB, St. Louis. Bulger should be back from his shoulder injury this week.
Torry Holt, WR, St. Louis. Like Bulger, Holt will be back this week.
Issac Bruce, WR, St. Louis. Bruce's turf toe is still bothering him, but he could be back this week. He's still questionable, though.
Anthony Thomas, RB, New Orleans. Thomas was signed by the Saints to compete with Aaron Stecker as a backup to Antowain Smith. Thomas was released by Dallas last week.
Monday, November 07, 2005
Monday wrap up
It's all TO all the time.
Just in case you've been living on an island somewhere and missed the weekend news, Terrell Owens has been suspended by the Philadelphia Eagles for conduct detrimental to the team. Head coach Andy Reid announced today Owens has played his last game with the Eagles. Owens does have a hearing on this thanks to the NFLPA, so keep him around for now in case he's released and picked up by another team. It's a longshot, but it's all you've got right now if you've got Owens on your roster. Rookie Reggie Brown will benefit the most.
Chris Baker, TE, Jets. Baker is done for the season thanks to a broken ankle.
Brooks Bollinger, QB, Jets. Bollinger will replace ineffective Vinny Testaverde this week at Carolina.
Wayne Chrbet, WR, Jets. Chrbet was lost for the season thanks to a very serious concussion.
Kyle Boller, QB, Baltimore. Boller will be back in the starting lineup this week for the Ravens against Jacksonville.
Chris Simms, QB, Tampa Bay. Simms will continue as Tampa Bay's starter … for now. Tim Rattay is preparing to get in there.
Thomas Jones, RB, Chicago. Jones injured his ribs and did not return Sunday. Cedric Benson and Adrian Peterson looked good in his place. Look for the team to sit Jones this week to allow him to get completely healthy and see what the other guys can do.
Tony Fisher, RB, Green Bay. Fisher missed Sunday's game against the Steelers with a broken rib. Samkon Gado, an undrafted rookie out of Liberty got the bulk of the carries in his place. Gado finished the game with 26 carries for 62 yards but did score the Packers lone touchdown on a 2-yard run.
Just in case you've been living on an island somewhere and missed the weekend news, Terrell Owens has been suspended by the Philadelphia Eagles for conduct detrimental to the team. Head coach Andy Reid announced today Owens has played his last game with the Eagles. Owens does have a hearing on this thanks to the NFLPA, so keep him around for now in case he's released and picked up by another team. It's a longshot, but it's all you've got right now if you've got Owens on your roster. Rookie Reggie Brown will benefit the most.
Chris Baker, TE, Jets. Baker is done for the season thanks to a broken ankle.
Brooks Bollinger, QB, Jets. Bollinger will replace ineffective Vinny Testaverde this week at Carolina.
Wayne Chrbet, WR, Jets. Chrbet was lost for the season thanks to a very serious concussion.
Kyle Boller, QB, Baltimore. Boller will be back in the starting lineup this week for the Ravens against Jacksonville.
Chris Simms, QB, Tampa Bay. Simms will continue as Tampa Bay's starter … for now. Tim Rattay is preparing to get in there.
Thomas Jones, RB, Chicago. Jones injured his ribs and did not return Sunday. Cedric Benson and Adrian Peterson looked good in his place. Look for the team to sit Jones this week to allow him to get completely healthy and see what the other guys can do.
Tony Fisher, RB, Green Bay. Fisher missed Sunday's game against the Steelers with a broken rib. Samkon Gado, an undrafted rookie out of Liberty got the bulk of the carries in his place. Gado finished the game with 26 carries for 62 yards but did score the Packers lone touchdown on a 2-yard run.
Friday, November 04, 2005
Week 9 Tips
Quarterbacks
Must Start:
Kerry Collins, Oakland. The Raiders and Chiefs should get involved in an old-fashioned AFC West shootout.
Tom Brady, New England. The Patriots running backs are banged up. Brady will need to put the ball in the air.
Kurt Warner, Arizona. The Cardinals haven't had a running game all season. Warner starts this week and puts up good numbers.
Must sit:
Aaron Brooks, New Orleans. When will New Orleans figure out Brooks flat out stinks?
Mark Brunell, Washington. Brunell was added to the injury report Friday and faces a Philadelphia defense that should be pretty angry.
Trent Dilfer, Cleveland. Tennessee has been an inviting team to start quarterbacks against. But Dilfer and the Browns are really struggling. Fight the temptation.
Runnng Backs
Must Start:
Larry Johnson, Kansas City. Priest Holmes was downgraded to doubtful Friday. Johnson should have a huge day against Oakland.
Warrick Dunn, Atlanta. The Miami defense isn't what it once was. Go ahead and start Dunn.
Jamal Lewis, Baltimore. In seven career games against the Bengals, Lewis has seven 100-yard games. He gets his first of the year this week.
Must Sit:
Domanick Davis, Houston. Davis missed practice much of the week and now faces Jacksonville's defense.
Carnell Williams, Tampa Bay. Carolina has been one of the best in the NFL stopping the run.
Tony Fisher, Green Bay. Fisher will find nowhere to run against the Steelers.
Wide Receivers
Must Start:
Randy Moss, Oakland. Normally, Moss wouldn't be mentioned because he's a must start every week. But he's had three sub-par weeks and owners may feel the urge to bench him. Don't.
Eddie Kennison, Kansas City. Will get plenty of big play opportunities.
Steve Smith, Carolina. The best receiver in the league this year no matter who he's playing against.
Terrell Owens, Philadelphia. Get him in the lineup.
Must Sit:
Chris Chambers, Miami. Frerotte is struggling and he figures to draw DeAngelo Hall in coverage.
Travis Taylor, Minnesota. Sorry, but Brad Johnson doesn't instill much confidence.
Roy Williams, Detroit. Is probably a week away from making a big return, though he may play sparingly this week.
Tight Ends
Must Start:
Heath Miller, Steelers. Quickly turning into a touchdown machine.
Alge Crumpler, Atlanta. Will get plenty of looks.
L.J. Smith, Philadelphia. Should get free for some looks.
Must Sit:
Daniel Graham, New England. He's only getting one or two catches per week. Not the breakout star some though.
Chris Baker, Jets. Disappeared with Vinny Testaverde at quarterback.
Jermaine Wiggins, Minnesota. Just when he started catching passes, Culpepper got hurt. Bench him this week to see if Johnson throws to him.
Must Start:
Kerry Collins, Oakland. The Raiders and Chiefs should get involved in an old-fashioned AFC West shootout.
Tom Brady, New England. The Patriots running backs are banged up. Brady will need to put the ball in the air.
Kurt Warner, Arizona. The Cardinals haven't had a running game all season. Warner starts this week and puts up good numbers.
Must sit:
Aaron Brooks, New Orleans. When will New Orleans figure out Brooks flat out stinks?
Mark Brunell, Washington. Brunell was added to the injury report Friday and faces a Philadelphia defense that should be pretty angry.
Trent Dilfer, Cleveland. Tennessee has been an inviting team to start quarterbacks against. But Dilfer and the Browns are really struggling. Fight the temptation.
Runnng Backs
Must Start:
Larry Johnson, Kansas City. Priest Holmes was downgraded to doubtful Friday. Johnson should have a huge day against Oakland.
Warrick Dunn, Atlanta. The Miami defense isn't what it once was. Go ahead and start Dunn.
Jamal Lewis, Baltimore. In seven career games against the Bengals, Lewis has seven 100-yard games. He gets his first of the year this week.
Must Sit:
Domanick Davis, Houston. Davis missed practice much of the week and now faces Jacksonville's defense.
Carnell Williams, Tampa Bay. Carolina has been one of the best in the NFL stopping the run.
Tony Fisher, Green Bay. Fisher will find nowhere to run against the Steelers.
Wide Receivers
Must Start:
Randy Moss, Oakland. Normally, Moss wouldn't be mentioned because he's a must start every week. But he's had three sub-par weeks and owners may feel the urge to bench him. Don't.
Eddie Kennison, Kansas City. Will get plenty of big play opportunities.
Steve Smith, Carolina. The best receiver in the league this year no matter who he's playing against.
Terrell Owens, Philadelphia. Get him in the lineup.
Must Sit:
Chris Chambers, Miami. Frerotte is struggling and he figures to draw DeAngelo Hall in coverage.
Travis Taylor, Minnesota. Sorry, but Brad Johnson doesn't instill much confidence.
Roy Williams, Detroit. Is probably a week away from making a big return, though he may play sparingly this week.
Tight Ends
Must Start:
Heath Miller, Steelers. Quickly turning into a touchdown machine.
Alge Crumpler, Atlanta. Will get plenty of looks.
L.J. Smith, Philadelphia. Should get free for some looks.
Must Sit:
Daniel Graham, New England. He's only getting one or two catches per week. Not the breakout star some though.
Chris Baker, Jets. Disappeared with Vinny Testaverde at quarterback.
Jermaine Wiggins, Minnesota. Just when he started catching passes, Culpepper got hurt. Bench him this week to see if Johnson throws to him.
Thursday, November 03, 2005
Thursday news/notes
Ben Roethlisberger, QB, Steelers. Roethlisberger had surgery Thursday to have some cartilage cleaned up. He's definitely out this week and will be assessed again next week. Charlie Batch will start in his place.
Jerome Bettis, RB, Steelers. Bettis is out this week with a quad injury. Duce Staley will see his first substantial time backing up Willie Parker in Bettis' stead.
Julius Jones, RB, Dallas. Jones is expected back in practice this week. The Cowboys are off this week, however.
Donovan McNabb, QB, Philadelphia. McNabb missed his second practice this week with a rib injury. If he doesn't practice Friday, he's unlikely to play Sunday.
Terrell Owens, WR, Philadelphia. Owens was back at practice Thursday, but was limited. He's still doubtful to play this week.
Priest Holmes, RB, Kansas City. Holmes took some reps in practice Wednesday, but sat out Thursday. Holmes has yet to be cleared by the team's medical staff after suffering a concussion last week.
William Green, RB, Cleveland. Green was in a walking boot Thursday, leaving Rueben Droughns, who was arrested for a DUI earlier this week, as the team's only healthy running back.
Chris Simms, QB, Tampa Bay. If Simms struggles again this week, he could be replaced by Tim Rattay.
Domanick Davis, RB, Houston. Davis missed practice for the second consecutive day Thursday.
Eric Parker, WR, San Diego. Parker was downgraded to questionable Thursday with an ankle injury.
Ken Dorsey, QB, San Francisco. Dorsey was upgraded to probable Thursday and should play Sunday against the Giants.
Stephen Davis, RB, Carolina. Davis returned to practice Thursday after sitting out Wednesday with a knee injury.
T.J. Duckett, RB, Atlanta. Duckett practiced Thursday but is still questionable to play with an ankle injury.
Jerome Bettis, RB, Steelers. Bettis is out this week with a quad injury. Duce Staley will see his first substantial time backing up Willie Parker in Bettis' stead.
Julius Jones, RB, Dallas. Jones is expected back in practice this week. The Cowboys are off this week, however.
Donovan McNabb, QB, Philadelphia. McNabb missed his second practice this week with a rib injury. If he doesn't practice Friday, he's unlikely to play Sunday.
Terrell Owens, WR, Philadelphia. Owens was back at practice Thursday, but was limited. He's still doubtful to play this week.
Priest Holmes, RB, Kansas City. Holmes took some reps in practice Wednesday, but sat out Thursday. Holmes has yet to be cleared by the team's medical staff after suffering a concussion last week.
William Green, RB, Cleveland. Green was in a walking boot Thursday, leaving Rueben Droughns, who was arrested for a DUI earlier this week, as the team's only healthy running back.
Chris Simms, QB, Tampa Bay. If Simms struggles again this week, he could be replaced by Tim Rattay.
Domanick Davis, RB, Houston. Davis missed practice for the second consecutive day Thursday.
Eric Parker, WR, San Diego. Parker was downgraded to questionable Thursday with an ankle injury.
Ken Dorsey, QB, San Francisco. Dorsey was upgraded to probable Thursday and should play Sunday against the Giants.
Stephen Davis, RB, Carolina. Davis returned to practice Thursday after sitting out Wednesday with a knee injury.
T.J. Duckett, RB, Atlanta. Duckett practiced Thursday but is still questionable to play with an ankle injury.
Wednesday, November 02, 2005
Mid-week news
Lots of breaking news today folks, hold on.
Kurt Warner, QB, Arizona. Warner will get the start this week against Seattle, replacing Josh McCown, who head coach Dennis Green must just hate.
Terrell Owens, WR, Philadelphia. Owens may sit this week with a sprained ankle. It's the same ankle he had surgery on last year. Owens is doubtful to play this week.
Anquan Boldin, WR, Arizona. Boldin has already been ruled out with a bone bruise for Sunday's game against Seattle.
Stephen Davis, RB, Carolina. Davis was given the day off Wednesday to rest his sore knee.
Roy Williams, WR, Detroit. Williams got more work Wednesday than in previous weeks and could be back this week from his quad injury.
Jeff Garcia, QB, Detroit. Garcia's broken leg that cost him the first half of the season is still bothering him. He's iffy to play this week.
Robert Ferguson, WR, Green Bay. Ferguson sat out Wednesday despite saying he expected to play Sunday against the Steelers.
Priest Holmes, RB, Kansas City. Holmes is questionable to play Sunday after suffering a concussion last week. If it doesn't look like he'll play, bump Larry Johnson way up your start lists.
Patrick Pass, RB, New England. Pass didn't practice Wednesday because of a hamstring injury. He likely won't play this week.
David Akers, PK, Philadelphia. All signs point to Akers returning this week.
Charles Rogers, WR, Detroit. Rogers' drug suspension has officially ended.
Kurt Warner, QB, Arizona. Warner will get the start this week against Seattle, replacing Josh McCown, who head coach Dennis Green must just hate.
Terrell Owens, WR, Philadelphia. Owens may sit this week with a sprained ankle. It's the same ankle he had surgery on last year. Owens is doubtful to play this week.
Anquan Boldin, WR, Arizona. Boldin has already been ruled out with a bone bruise for Sunday's game against Seattle.
Stephen Davis, RB, Carolina. Davis was given the day off Wednesday to rest his sore knee.
Roy Williams, WR, Detroit. Williams got more work Wednesday than in previous weeks and could be back this week from his quad injury.
Jeff Garcia, QB, Detroit. Garcia's broken leg that cost him the first half of the season is still bothering him. He's iffy to play this week.
Robert Ferguson, WR, Green Bay. Ferguson sat out Wednesday despite saying he expected to play Sunday against the Steelers.
Priest Holmes, RB, Kansas City. Holmes is questionable to play Sunday after suffering a concussion last week. If it doesn't look like he'll play, bump Larry Johnson way up your start lists.
Patrick Pass, RB, New England. Pass didn't practice Wednesday because of a hamstring injury. He likely won't play this week.
David Akers, PK, Philadelphia. All signs point to Akers returning this week.
Charles Rogers, WR, Detroit. Rogers' drug suspension has officially ended.
Tuesday, November 01, 2005
Monday wrap/Tuesday news
Sorry blogger fans - both of you - about not blogging Monday. I was tied up with the Steelers game and had a couple of things to do during the day.
So today's blog will be a Monday-Tuesday combination.
Daunte Culpepper, QB, Minnesota. The big news for the weekend was that Culpepper's season came to an end with multiple torn knee ligaments at Carolina. This is probably good news for his owners, who had to suffer through his up-and-down performances this year. Brad Johnson takes over the pitiful Minnesota offense.
Bobby Engram, WR, Seattle. Engram didn't practice Monday, but has vowed to be ready to return to play Sunday at Arizona. He's been out for some time, though, so I'll keep an eye on the situation.
Anquan Boldin, WR, Arizona. Boldin injured his right knee at Dallas Sunday, but it is nothing more than a bone contusion, not a cartilage tear like the one that sidelined him last season.
Mrk Bradley, WR, Chicago. Just when the rookie was looking like he might be a valuable fatasy pickup, he was lost for the season with a torn ACL. Justin Gage picks up the slack.
Thomas Jones, RB, Chicago. Jones missed the final three series of Sunday's win over Detroit with bruised ribs, with Adrian Peterson getting the bulk of the carries in his place. But beware, Cedric Benson also got a look and had 35 yards on three carries in overtime. He could start stealing attempts away.
Patrick Pass, RB, New England. Pass pulled his hamstring early in the Pats win over Buffalo, forcing the team to go back to injured starter Corey Dillon. Dillon responded well and should be ready to get back in the lineup. Maybe the injury to Pass was the prodding Dillon needed to get back in there.
Torry Holt, WR, St. Louis. Holt tested his injured knee Monday and said he plans on returning after the team's bye this week. Issac Bruce, however, remains highly questionable with his turf toe, an injury that coule end his career.
Marc Bulger, QB, St. Louis. Ditto for Bulger, who played catch yesterday with Holt, testing his bruised shoulder.
Stephen Davis, RB, Carolina. Davis should be OK after getting a scare against Minnesota when 340-pound defensive tackle Pat Williams fell on his surgically repaired knee. Davis said the fall broke up some scar tissue and he should be OK to play this week.
Robert Ferguson, WR, Green Bay. Despite being listed as out for the next month or so, Ferguson plans to test his sprained lateral collateral ligament in his left knee in hopes of playing against the steelers Sunday. I'll keep an eye on the situation.
Tyrone Calico, WR, Tennessee. The already depleted Titans WR corps may be without Calico, who injured his right calf Sunday and experienced some swelling.
Ben Roethlisberger, QB, Steelers. Roethlisberger has a strained knee and had an MRI Tuesday. He played through the injury Monday night against Baltimore and should be OK to go against Green Bay Sunday.
So today's blog will be a Monday-Tuesday combination.
Daunte Culpepper, QB, Minnesota. The big news for the weekend was that Culpepper's season came to an end with multiple torn knee ligaments at Carolina. This is probably good news for his owners, who had to suffer through his up-and-down performances this year. Brad Johnson takes over the pitiful Minnesota offense.
Bobby Engram, WR, Seattle. Engram didn't practice Monday, but has vowed to be ready to return to play Sunday at Arizona. He's been out for some time, though, so I'll keep an eye on the situation.
Anquan Boldin, WR, Arizona. Boldin injured his right knee at Dallas Sunday, but it is nothing more than a bone contusion, not a cartilage tear like the one that sidelined him last season.
Mrk Bradley, WR, Chicago. Just when the rookie was looking like he might be a valuable fatasy pickup, he was lost for the season with a torn ACL. Justin Gage picks up the slack.
Thomas Jones, RB, Chicago. Jones missed the final three series of Sunday's win over Detroit with bruised ribs, with Adrian Peterson getting the bulk of the carries in his place. But beware, Cedric Benson also got a look and had 35 yards on three carries in overtime. He could start stealing attempts away.
Patrick Pass, RB, New England. Pass pulled his hamstring early in the Pats win over Buffalo, forcing the team to go back to injured starter Corey Dillon. Dillon responded well and should be ready to get back in the lineup. Maybe the injury to Pass was the prodding Dillon needed to get back in there.
Torry Holt, WR, St. Louis. Holt tested his injured knee Monday and said he plans on returning after the team's bye this week. Issac Bruce, however, remains highly questionable with his turf toe, an injury that coule end his career.
Marc Bulger, QB, St. Louis. Ditto for Bulger, who played catch yesterday with Holt, testing his bruised shoulder.
Stephen Davis, RB, Carolina. Davis should be OK after getting a scare against Minnesota when 340-pound defensive tackle Pat Williams fell on his surgically repaired knee. Davis said the fall broke up some scar tissue and he should be OK to play this week.
Robert Ferguson, WR, Green Bay. Despite being listed as out for the next month or so, Ferguson plans to test his sprained lateral collateral ligament in his left knee in hopes of playing against the steelers Sunday. I'll keep an eye on the situation.
Tyrone Calico, WR, Tennessee. The already depleted Titans WR corps may be without Calico, who injured his right calf Sunday and experienced some swelling.
Ben Roethlisberger, QB, Steelers. Roethlisberger has a strained knee and had an MRI Tuesday. He played through the injury Monday night against Baltimore and should be OK to go against Green Bay Sunday.