In Week 10, there were at least at least three games that turned out much differently than many fans expected. But, “that’s why they play the games.”
The purpose of reviewing each game allow owners to see each teams players’ fantasy stats in one place. This should help owners get a feel for where their players are in their teams offenses, as well as provide a feel for other players that could become fantasy-relevant in the near future. In the end, the fantasy spin lets you the owner evaluate players by where they should be in terms of setting positional rosters each and every week. It can also help you decide whether to go get a player off waivers, whether to try and make a trade, or whether to sit tight.
On to this week’s Fantasy Three-Sixty!
Thursday, November 10th
8:20 p.m. EST
RAIDERS (5-4) 24 v. 17 CHARGERS (4-5)
Raiders: This was a great win for the Raiders which built momentum for their team going forward. QB Carson Palmer (299 yds., 2 TDs, 1 INT, 1 FMBL) was outstanding! The Raiders passing game was just clicking with WR Denarius Moore (123 yds., 2 TDs) stepping up, after WR Jacoby Ford (41 yds.) went down with a sprained ankle. Unfortunately, WR Darrius Heyward-Bey was statless again. With RB Darren McFadden still out due to injury, RB Michael Bush (242 APY, 1 TD) just rolled through what was supposed to be a stout Chargers rush defense. The Raiders DST (6 sacks, 1 INT, 1 DFR) just swarmed Phillip Rivers, pressuring him constantly in this game.
Fantasy Spin: Obviously, RB Darren McFadden (when healthy) is the Raider to start in fantasy each and every week. Yet, with RB Michael Bush playing at a high level, the Raiders may not be quick to rush him back to the gridiron until it is time. It was unfortunate that WR Jacoby Ford went down to injury as he looked to be having a good game. So long as he is out, it looks like WR Denarius Moore will be the team No. 1 wide receiver for the Raiders, and he becomes an instant waiver wire add regardless. The chemistry he built with Palmer will likely continue even when Ford returns. QB Carson Palmer remains a must add in fantasy if he is available in your league. The Raiders look like they are in a position to win games. The Raiders DST should be owned if you have room on your roster, and should be considered for at least a match-up based play.
NEXT UP: at Vikings
Chargers: The Chargers had still yet another tough loss this week in a game they were supposed to win. QB Philip Rivers (274 yds., 2 TDs, 1 INT, 1 FMBL) was under constant pressure in this game and besides WR Vincent Brown (97 yds., 1 TD), the other Chargers receiving options struggled including WR Vincent Jackson (22 yds.) and TE Antonio Gates (54 yds.). Unfortunately, RB Ryan Mathews (57 yds.) did not have the big comeback game everyone expected in this favorable match-up. Even RB Mike Tolbert (73 APY) struggled a bit even when he began to get the majority of plays in this game. The Chargers DST (1 sack, 1 INT, 1 DFR) couldn’t find a rhythm in this game.
Fantasy Spin: Until the Chargers can get QB Philip Rivers some pass protection, he could continue to struggle in certain situations. Unfortunately, many fantasy footballers may have no choice but to keep starting him. While these kinds of performances will affect his wide receivers, WR Vincent Jackson and TE Antonio Gates should continue to be started weekly as this team’s playmakers. With WR Malcolm Floyd missing another game, WR Vincent Brown has emerged as a legitimate threat in the offense. For owners with deep benches, he is an immediate bench stash to be used in the right match-up. RB Ryan Mathews and RB Mike Tolbert remain a solid RB2 and weekly flex-play, respectively. The Chargers DST should continue to be considered for a fantasy starts for now.
NEXT UP: at Bears
Sunday, November 13th
1:00 p.m. EST
JAGUARS (3-6) 17 v. 3 COLTS (0-10)
Jaguars: The underrated Jaguars DST (5 sacks, 2 INTs, 1 DFR) continued to shine this week and took advantage of a struggling Colts offense. QB Blaine Gabbert (118 yds., 8 rush yds., 1 TD, 1 INT) continued to struggle in his rookie season. Besides RB Maurice Jones-Drew (137 APY, 1 TD), no other Jaguars, including WR Mike Thomas (13 APY), WR Jason Hill (0 yds.), and TE Marcedes Lewis (-4 yds.), did anything in this game. WR Jason Dillard (30 yds., 1 TD) made the biggest impact in the passing game.
Fantasy Spin: RB Maurice Jones-Drew is the only Jaguars player worth fantasy consideration on a weekly basis. Until the passing game gets going, fantasy owners should avoid the other Jaguars playmakers with the expectation that they play well, even in a good match-up. The Jaguars DST is underrated and difficult to start without a good offense. Yet, they remain a match-up based play.
NEXT UP: at Browns
Colts: The box score says it all. QB Curtis Painter (94 yds., 0 TDs, 2 INTs) ; QB Dan Orlovsky (67 yds., 1 FMBL); WR Pierre Garcon (30 yds.); WR Reggie Wayne (13 yds.); and WR Austin Collie (31 yds.) had awful games. Even worse, RB Donald Brown (65 yds.) did little, as did RB DeLone Carter (14 yds.). The only positive performance in this game was posted by TE Jacob Tamme (75 yds.) who replaced an injured TE Dallas Clark. The Colts DST (2 sacks, 1 INT) couldn’t even stop the Jaguars offense.
Fantasy Spin: It’s tough to play any of the Colts players with an expectation that they will do something meaningful in the game. Assuming they are still on your roster, continue to treat Colts players as weekly options, along with your other players. With TE Dallas Clark out, TE Jacob Tamme did a good job. For owners with bench space, or for owners with a TE2/bye week need, consider adding Tamme as he made an immediate impact in the game. The Colts running game is a mixed bag of risk and reward and RB DeLone Carter, RB Donald Brown, and RB Joseph Addai should be avoided if possible. Consider starting any defense that plays the Colts.
NEXT UP: BYE
BRONCOS (4-5) 17 v. 10 CHIEFS (4-5)
Broncos: This wasn’t a pretty win, but a win is a win. It was also not a pretty game for QB Tim Tebow (69 yds., 43 rush yds., 2 TDs, 0 INTs), but hopefully it was enough for owners who started him this week. WR Eric Decker (65 APY, 1 TD) would have disappointed but for the touchdown. Both WR Eddie Royal and WR Demarius Thomas were statless. Incredibly, both RB Willis McGahee (17 yds.) and RB Knowshon Moreno (52 yds.) left the game due to injury and Moreno’s season is over. RB Lance Ball (96 yds.) did a great job filling in. The Broncos DST (4 sacks) was putting constant pressure on Matt Cassel. They matched up well with the Chiefs.
Fantasy Spin: If you can say at least one thing, QB Tim Tebow is getting the job done, but it’s just not very pretty. Still, Tebow remains fantasy relevant and is startable in the right match-up. Hopefully, he gets the passing game going because that’s when he is most effective. WR Eric Decker continues to be the Broncos receiver to own and start. As for WR Demarius Thomas and WR Eddie Royal, they look to be hit or miss and therefore, should be avoided until one of them establishes themselves in the offense. For owners of RB Willis McGahee, monitor his player news and let’s hope the injuriy is not of the serious kind. In the meantime, RB Lance Ball can be added off waivers and started as a match-up based play so long as they are out. The Broncos DST is a match-up based play.
NEXT UP: Jets (Thursday Night Football)
Chiefs: This was just an awful game for the Chiefs as they were unable to establish a passing game or a running game. QB Matt Cassel (93 yds., 16 rush yds., 1 TD) was under constant pressure and is done for the season. As such, WR Dwayne Bowe (17 yds.), WR Steve Breaston (33 yds.), and WR Jonathan Baldwin (15 yds.) posted some miserable stats compared to what was expected. The Chiefs couldn’t even establish a real rushing game even though RB Jackie Battle (61 yds.) got some action. It was WR Dexter McCluster (93 APY) that put up the best game for a Chiefs player, but his performance was unexpected as he has hardly been a factor in the offense to date. The Chiefs DST (statless) just stunk again against an offense that has allowed defenses to take advantage of them.
Fantasy Spin: Even QB Matt Cassel is done for the season, WR Dwayne Bowe is the Chiefs player fantasy footballers should keep starting in fantasy because he has a nose for the end-zone. The Chiefs should continue committing to the run making RB Jackie Battle a factor in this offense, and worthy of low-RB2 and flex-play consideration. We expected more from the Chiefs DST in this game. Before the Chiefs DST is considered for a match-up based play, you should consider your other options first.
NEXT UP: at Patriots
STEELERS (7-3) 24 v. 17 BENGALS (6-3)
Steelers: This was a tough game for the Steelers. Yet, they were able to make some key plays in each aspect of their game to pull out the win. QB Ben Roethlisberger (245 yds., 1 TD, 1 INT) didn’t have as good of a game as many had thought he would, but credit a tough Bengals defense. Still, WR Mike Wallace (85 APY) and WR Antonio Brown (86 yds.) were decent. Unfortunately, TE Heath Miller (31 yds.) did not have another good game. RB Rashard Mendenhall (70 APY, 2 TDs) did well for fantasy footballer due to the multiple TDs, especially against one of the better rushing defenses in the league. The Steelers DST (1 INT) made some key plays but may not have been as fantasy relevant as some fantasy footballers would have liked.
Fantasy Spin: QB Ben Roethlisberger, RB Rashard Mendenhall, and WR Mike Wallace are regular fantasy starters. Both WR Antonio Brown and TE Heath Miller have been contributing and their roles still look to be permanent. As WR Emmanuel Sanders will likely miss some time coming off foot surgery, and WR Hines Ward battles through injury, WR Antonio Brown should be started as a WR3 until further notice. The Steelers DST hasn’t been the greatest, but it is still a unit that can be started in fantasy.
NEXT UP: BYE
Bengals: The Bengals played well keeping up with a good Steelers team until the end. QB Andy Dalton (170 yds., 2 TDs, 2 INTs) had a decent game but for the turnovers. Yet, the two TD tosses went to playmakers WR A.J. Green (43 APY, 1 TD) and to TE Jermaine Gresham (23 yds., 1 TD), so this helped owners who started them. Unfortunately, WR Jerome Simpson (statless) was a non-factor and RB Cedric Benson (62 APY) played below expectations. The Bengals DST (5 sacks, 1 INT) did well because of the pressure they put on Roethlisberger but the score hurt.
Fantasy Spin: Both RB Cedric Benson and WR A.J. Green continue to be the best fantasy options on the Bengals. As for QB Andy Dalton, he is worth consideration for a fantasy start even when the bye weeks conclude. The concern is Dalton can be inconsistent and the remaining schedule looks tough. WR A.J. Green is definitely worth a WR2 start. The Bengals DST is one of the best defensive units out there. They should be owned and started.
NEXT UP: Ravens
BILLS (5-4) 7 v. 44 COWBOYS (5-4)
Bills: This was an awful game for the Bills. While many thought they would lose, no one expected the thrashing the Bills underwent at the hands of the Cowboys. QB Ryan Fitzpatrick (146 yds., 20 rush yds., 1 TD, 3 INTs) struggled immensely against the Cowboys pass defense. And, while RB Fred Jackson (115 APY, 1 FMBL) had a decent game, fantasy footballers likely expected more. Indeed, WR Steve Johnson (8 yds.) couldn’t get it going in this game. If you played WR David Nelson (31 yds., 1 TD), you were at least rewarded with the touchdown. This week, TE Scott Chandler (34 yds.) wasn’t a focus of the offense. The Bills DST was held statless in this game.
Fantasy Spin: QB Ryan Fitzpatrick is still worthy of QB1 consideration but only in the right match-up. Fantasy footballers should keep starting RB Fred Jackson and WR Steve Johnson as this team’s main fantasy playmakers. As for WR David Nelson, he is still worth consideration as a WR3. TE Scott Chandler has not been a big part of the offense and is inconsistent. He should be avoided in fantasy play. The Bills DST remains a risky play because they have had several disappointing outings since the beginning of the season. The only way they are worth starting is if the rest of your roster is solid.
NEXT UP: at Dolphins
Cowboys: This was a great win for the Cowboys with both the offense and the defense contributing to the win. QB Tony Romo (270 yds., 3 TDs) got the passing game going and both WR Dez Bryant (74 yds., 1 TD) and WR Laurent Robinson (73 yds., 2 TDs) made an impact in the game. Unfortunately, TE Jason Witten (37 yds.) didn’t contribute statistically. In terms of the rushing attack, Week 7 sensation, RB DeMarco Murray (171 APY, 1 TD) continued to impress. The Cowboys DST (1 sack, 2 INTs, 1 DTD) had one of its best games of the season.
Fantasy Spin: QB Tony Romo, WR Miles Austin (when healthy), WR Dez Bryant, and TE Jason Witten are worth a fantasy start each and every week. Even when RB Felix Jones returns to the gridiron (likely this week), RB DeMarco Murray is expected to remain the Cowboys leading running back. With Miles Austin out, WR Laurent Robinson has been great. He remains a solid waiver add for owners needing the help at the postion. The Cowboys DST is still worth starting in fantasy, especially in a good match-up.
NEXT UP: at Redskins
SAINTS (7-3) 26 v. 23 (OT) FALCONS (5-4)
Saints: This was a great game for all who got to see it. Two division rivals battling it out. For the Saints this was an important win to stay atop the division. But, it wasn’t an easy win. QB Drew Brees (322 yds., 2 TDs) was solid for fantasy footballers this week. This helped TE Jimmy Graham (82 yds., 1 TD), WR Marques Colston (113 yds., 1 TD), and WR Robert Meachem (69 yds., 1 TD) post some very good stats. As for the other wide receivers, WR Lance Moore (28 yds.) and WR Devery Henderson (0 yds.) were non-factors fantasy-wise. This week, the Saints rush offense couldn’t quite get going, as the stats for RB-KR Darren Sproles (3 APY), RB Pierre Thomas (38 APY), and RB Mark Ingram (14 APY) reflected. The Saints DST (1 sack, 1 INT) had its hands full against a good Falcons offense.
Fantasy Spin: If it’s an echo you hear, QB Drew Brees, TE Jimmy Graham, and WR Marques Colston should be started each and every week in fantasy football. Otherwise, from a fantasy perspective, the Saints receiving situation is still difficult to figure out. It’s a guessing game who among WR Robert Meachem, WR Devery Henderson, and WR Lance Moore will be the main contributor to the offense on a weekly basis. Even though RB Mark Ingram returned from injury, he did little to distinguish himself from RB Pierre Thomas. Still, we expect a straight time share between them. Ingram is likely still the best bet of two to do something, best used as a flex-play. This was an off week for RB Darren Sproles. Still, he remains an RB2 going forward. The Saints DST will continue to have some good days, and some bad days, but you should continue considering them for a start.
NEXT UP: BYE
Falcons: The Falcons fought hard in what ended up being a disappointing loss. QB Matt Ryan (351 yds., 2 TDs, 1 INT) had one of his best games of the season. And, even though WR Julio Jones (9 yds.) left the game with a hamstring injury, WR Harry Douglas (136 APY) did well in his place. Unfortunately, WR Roddy White (62 yds.) didn’t have the kind of game we had hoped. And, if you played TE Tony Gonzalez (71 yds., 1 TD), you were rewarded again with a TD and some decent yardage for a second week in a row. RB Michael Turner (106 APY) did well as usual and RB Jason Snelling (25 yds., 1 TD) contributed. The Falcons DST had one of its worst games statistically speaking but did shut down the Saints rushing attack.
Fantasy Spin: Continue to consider starting the Falcons main playmakers like QB Matt Ryan, RB Michael Turner, WR Roddy White, and WR Julio Jones each and every week. TE Tony Gonzalez remains a weekly match-up based play. This week, the Falcons DST didn’t have a very good defensive outing, but they are a better unit than the statistics reflect. They are worth starting in fantasy with the way they have played.
NEXT UP: Titans
RAMS (2-7) 13 v. 12 BROWNS (3-6)
Rams: As expected, this game turned into a defensive battle. As such, QB Sam Bradford (155 yds., 1 TD, 1 INT) didn’t have a very good good. RB Steven Jackson (151 APY, 1 FMBL) led the offense with WR Brandon Lloyd (48 yds., 1 TD) continuing to be the main receiving threat. WR Austin Pettis (31 yds.) posted some yardage with the rest of the team’s wide receivers banged up. The Rams DST (2 sacks, 1 DFR) was helped by the low-score.
Fantasy Spin: Regardless of who is under center, it hasn’t hurt the performance of WR Brandon Lloyd who can continue to be played in fantasy along with RB Steven Jackson. Here’s hoping QB Sam Bradford can get out of the slump that has hung over his second season as a pro. With the Rams DST continuing to play well, they could be worth a match-up based play.
NEXT UP: Seahawks
Browns: The Browns had their hands full again with QB Colt McCoy (218 yds., 4 rush yds., 0 TDs, 0 INTs) failing to do much of anything. However, the rushing game seemed to get back on track with RB Chris Ogbonnaya (109 APY) doing well in a favorable match-up. As for the Browns receivers, WR Greg Little (94 yds.) stood out, while WR Josh Cribbs (53 APY, 1 FMBL), TE Ben Watson (30 yds.) failed to post any meaningful fantasy stats. The Browns DST (1 sack, 1 INT, 1 DFR) played well and was effective, especially with the low score.
Fantasy Spin: With all the issues that have arisen after RB Peyton Hillis went down to injury, it’s really unclear what we can expect from him going forward. Still, the Browns can run the ball, so either RB Montario Hardesty (when healthy) or RB Chris Ogbonnaya is a good option for the Browns. Even though this was another disappointing performance, TE Ben Watson remains the best fantasy player on this team, due weekly consideration. It was good to see WR Greg Little bounce back in this game. He should continue to get his chances. While the Browns DST rush defense has been lacking, it can still be considered a match-up based play.
NEXT UP: Jaguars
REDSKINS (3-6) 9 v. 20 DOLPHINS (2-7)
Redskins: This week, the Redskins made the switch back to Rex Grossman as the starting quarterback and even made the switch back to Ryan Torrain as the starting running back. Still, it didn’t help against a good Dolphins defense. QB Rex Grossman (215 yds., 0 TDs, 2 INTs) struggled again. Besides WR Leonard Hankerson (106 yds.), TE Fred Davis (28 yds.) and WR Jabar Gaffney (37 yds.) struggled in the passing game. And, even though it seemed the Redskins found their answer for their running game last week, RB Roy Helu (54 APY) split carries with RB Ryan Torrain (24 APY). The Redskins DST (2 sacks, 1 INT) just didn’t have it this week.
Fantasy Spin: Right now, both QB John Beck and QB Rex Grossman should be avoided in fantasy football until one of them can become a clear cut starter who performs well. Likewise, it’s hard to say whether RB Roy Helu or RB Ryan Torrain will be the team’s workhorse or split carries. It’s a situation to be avoided. TE Fred Davis didn’t look very good in this game again but he is still this team’s main playmaker, making him worth consideration for a start each and every week along with your other tight-end. Among the wide receivers, WR Jabar Gaffney is still the wide receiver to own and start until WR Santana Moss returns from injury. Yet, Gaffney is difficult to start in fantasy until he starts having some good games. With the present state of the offense, it’s difficult to say when that will be. Until the offense gets going, the Redskins DST might be one to avoid too unless a it’s a good match-up.
NEXT UP: Cowboys
Dolphins: The Dolphins regressed a bit this week but did enough to win the game handily. QB Matt Moore (209 yds., 14 rush yds., 0 TDs, 1 INT, 1 FMBL) had a rough weekend. Still, WR Brandon Marshall (98 yds.) had another good game along with TE Anthony Fasano (60 yds.) . To add to this, RB Reggie Bush (51 APY, 2 TDs) had another fantastic performance by way of two touchdowns. Unfortunately, RB Daniel Thomas (42 yds.) didn’t put up the kind of performance fantasy footballers expect from him. The Dolphins DST (3 sacks, 2 INTs) had another solid performance.
Fantasy Spin: Regardless of this performance, it would still be tough to start QB Matt Moore in fantasy except in this last bye week. Moore simply needs to perform consistently. WR Brandon Marshall continued to show how dangerous he could be regardless of who is under center. RB Reggie Bush has now had three games in a row of good performances all at the expense of RB Daniel Thomas. Continue looking Bush’s way as a solid flex option. Let’s hope Thomas’ off game here was simply a product of the Dolphins wanting to keep their main back healthy. Continue treating Thomas as a potential flex-play so long as he is healthy. TE Anthony Fasano had another decent game and could be a decent bye-week replacement. The Dolphins DST is a match-up based play.
NEXT UP: Bills
TEXANS (7-3) 37 v. 9 BUCCANEERS (4-5)
Texans: This week the Texans had their offense firing on all cylinders, for the most part. Unfortunately, the win came at a high price. QB Matt Schaub (242 yds., 2 TDs, 0 INTs) was solid. Most of the offense, however, came from RB Arian Foster (186 APY, 2 TDs), RB Ben Tate (63 yds., 1 TD), WR Jacoby Jones (87 yds., 1 TD), and RB Derrick Ward (36 yds., 1 TD). Unfortunately, TE Owen Daniels (31 yds.) was a non-factor in the offense. The Texans DST (4 sacks, 3 INTs) had another outstanding game!
Fantasy Spin: As you know, QB Matt Schaub sustained a serious foot injury that could cause him to miss the entire season. QB Matt Leinart is expected to start for Schaub until further notice. As such, we will likely see a run heavy Texans offense in volving RB Arian Foster and RB Ben Tate. As for WR Andre Johnson, who is expected to return in Week 12, he should continue to be started in fantasy each and every week. However, with Leinart under center, Johnson’s stats could be affected as Leinart had a hard time connecting with Both WR Larry Fitzgerald and WR Anquan Boldin when with the Cardinals. Here’s hoping that they do in fact build some chemistry. TE Owen Daniels is still the team’s second best receiving option right know regardless of what happened in this game. WR Kevin Walter and WR Jacoby Jones could play well one week, but not the next week, which makes them difficult to start in fantasy. And, with Andre Johnson returning to the gridiron, expect Walter’s and Jones’ roles to shrink. The Texans DST is a unit that should be started each and every week.
NEXT UP: BYE
Buccaneers: The Buccaneers had another bad game this week. QB Josh Freeman (179 yds., 25 rush yds., 1 TD, 3 INTs) was stymied by the Texans pass defense. RB LaGarrette Blount (34 yds.) couldn’t do much in the running game either. So, with the entire offense struggling, WR Mike Williams (43 yds.) had another game which was less than what fantasy footballers who spent a high draft pick on him expect. Even TE Kellen Winslow (33 yds.) continued to struggle. The Bucs DST (1 Sack) was ineffective overall.
Fantasy Spin: We still expect more from QB Josh Freeman and right now, he is awfully difficult to play in fantasy football with his struggles on the field. If Freeman is still on your roster, it remains true that if your other QB has a better match up, you should consider starting him instead of Freeman. So long as RB LaGarrette Blount is healthy, he remains a likely candidate for a low RB2 start or flex-play. As for the Bucs receiving options, it’s still tough to keep starting WR Mike Williams and TE Kellen Winslow even in a favorable match-up. In the meantime, consider your other options with them too. The Bucs DST hasn’t been very good this season and has fallen short of expectations.
NEXT UP: at Packers
TITANS (5-4) 30 v. 3 PANTHERS (2-7)
Titans: Finally, the Titans posted a solid win where they manhandled their opponent. While QB Matt Hasselbeck (219 yds., 21 rush yds., 1 TD, 1 INT) didn’t post monstrous numbers, it was enough to help the Titans control the game. Unfortunately, WR Nate Washington (42 APY) and TE Jared Cook (47 yds., 1 FMBL) continued to struggle. On the other hand, WR Damian Williams (107 yds., 1 TD) had another outstanding performance. Don’t look now, but RB Chris Johnson (174 APY, 1 TD) had his best game of the season! The Titans DST (4 sacks, 1 INT, 1 DFR, 1 DTD) was a rock star fantasy unit this weekend.
Fantasy Spin: QB Matt Hasselbeck showed again why he is a solid quarterback in football and a solid back-up in fantasy. It very much appears that WR Damian Williams has surpassed WR Nate Washington in the passing game. Williams should be added off waivers. TE Jared Cook is at best a decent TE2, match-up based play. While two weeks a season does not make, RB Chris Johnson certainly looks back on track to regain his fantasy prominence this season. Johnson should be easier to start in fantasy. He remains an RB2, or flex-play. The Titans DST remains a match-up based play.
NEXT UP: at Falcons
Panthers: This was an ugly, unexpected loss for the Panthers as they could get no aspect of their offense going. QB Cam Newton (212 yds., 55 rush yds., 0 TDs, 1 INT) likely had his worst game of the season as did WR Steve Smith (33 yds.). Unfortunately, TE Jeremy Shockey (19 yds.) continues to to cut into the playing time of TE Greg Olsen (45 yds., 1 FMBL) and the rushing game continues to struggle with both RB DeAngelo Williams (35 yds.) and RB Jonathan Stewart (45 yds.) posting some unimpressive stats. The Panthers DST (1 sack, 1 INT) couldn’t stop the Titans.
Fantasy Spin: Owners of QB Cam Newton should keep playing him unless one of the other higher ranked QBs happens to be their other, better option for the week. WR Steve Smith continues to remain a weekly fantasy start. Unfortunately, TE Greg Olsen continues to lose playing time even in good match-ups, and he should be avoided for now in fantasy play. Not only was it unfortunate to see RB DeAngelo Williams do little, yet again, but RB Jonathan Stewart had a subpar performance too. The Fantasy Greek wouldn’t be surprised if fantasy footballers who drafted Williams were dropping him onto the waiver wire. RB Jonathan Stewart should still get flex-play consideration. The Panthers DST is not a fantasy option.
NEXT UP: at Lions
CARDINALS (3-6) 21 v. 17 EAGLES (3-6)
Cardinals: This was another good win for the Cardinals with QB Kevin Kolb missing another game. QB John Skelton (315 yds., 15 rush yds., 3 TDs, 2 INTs) is making a genuine case to remain the team’s starter when Kolb does make it back especially since he is connecting with WR Larry Fitzgerald (146 yds., 2 TDs)! WR Early Doucet (24 yds., 1 TD) and WR Andre Roberts (67 APY) got in the mix too. Unfortunately, RB Beanie Wells (62 yds.) is still getting banged up. The Cardinals DST (2 sacks, 2 INTs) is playing better than the stats reflect.
Fantasy Spin: WR Larry Fitzgerald remains a must-start in fantasy, and RB Beanie Wells (when healthy) should be considered for the weekly fantasy start too. With QB John Skelton playing well, he has become a fantasy option so long as Kevin Kolb is out. The Cardinals DST continues to show signs of fantasy life. They have become a fantasy option base don the match-up.
NEXT UP: Forty-Niners
Eagles: And, the nightmare continues for the Eagles and their fans. QB Michael Vick (128 yds., 79 rush yds., 0 TDs, 2 INTs) struggled yet again. It was learned he suffered two broken ribs on the second play of this game. With his limited play, WR Jeremy Maclin (statless) and WR Jason Avant (2 yds.) did nothing of relevance in this game. TE Brent Celek (53 yds.) was decent, while WR Steve Smith (47 yds.) got some action with WR DeSean Jackson benched for the game. Only RB LeSean McCoy (93 APY, 1 TD) was able to do something in this game. The Eagles DST (4 sacks, 2 INTs, 1 DFR) played great in this game.
Fantasy Spin: If QB Michael Vick can’t remain injury free, he can’t help fantasy owners. Yet, when healthy, Vick, RB LeSean McCoy, WR DeSean Jackson, and WR Jeremy Maclin should be started weekly. This week, it looks like QB Vince Young will get the start. This could hurt some, not all, of the Eagles playmakers. So, when setting your line-ups consider this in your fantasy football decisions. While owners of Desean Jackson should be genuinely concerned, especially now that he missed a game due to an off the field issue, the reality is Jackson is one of the best wide-receivers in the league. However, if fantasy footballer considered benching him, The Fantasy Greek would not blame them. Still, here’s hoping Jackson has an explosive game at some point this season. TE Brent Celek has had his fourth straight game where he posted some meaningful stats. Expect this to continue, and Celek is certainly a match-up based play. The Eagles DST had a really good week. Consider the Eagles DST for match-up based plays.
NEXT UP: at Giants
Sunday, November 13th
4:05 p.m. EST
RAVENS (6-3) 17 v. 22 SEAHAWKS (3-6)
Ravens: After a great win over the Steelers, the Ravens posted another head-scratcher loss to a team it looked like they should beat. QB Joe Flacco (255 yds., 1 TD, 1 INT) had a mediocre game, but at least he was able to toss a touchdown. Indeed, WR Anquan Boldin (22 yds.) and WR Torrey Smith (44 APY) disappointed this week while TE Ed Dickson (79 yds., 2 TDs) came out of nowhere with the best game among the Ravens receiving options. Thank goodness, RB Ray Rice (81 APY, 1 pass TD) was able to throw for a TD. Otherwise, fantasy footballers playing him would have been greatly disappointed. The Ravens DST (1 sack) looked ordinary in this game.
Fantasy Spin: After QB Joe Flacco had two good outings in a row, he posted a fantasy goose egg compared to how he could have played. However, if Flacco is on your roster, he is likely your QB2. Flacco remains a match-up based play. RB Ray Rice and WR Anquan Boldin remain weekly must-starts. As for WR Torrey Smith, he is still a WR3 consideration so long as WR Lee Evans remains side-lined due to injury. Regardless of this performance, TE Ed Dickson is TE2 at best. As for the Ravens DST, keep starting them.
NEXT UP: Bengals
Seahawks: The Seahawks pulled out a victory in a game no one thought they could win. QB Tarvaris Jackson (217 yds., 0 TDs, 0 INTs) continued to struggle. This was possibly due to losing WR Sidney Rice (14 yds.) and WR Doug Baldwin (50 yds.) to concussions. RB Marshawn Lynch (167 APY, 1 TD) was outstanding as he continued to dial the clock back and looked like the Lynch we would all like to see play this way on a weekly basis. The Seahawks DST (1 sack, 1 INT, 1 DFR) had a good game against what should be a good offense.
Fantasy Spin: WR Sidney Rice is the most talented Seahawks player and the one to consider for a fantasy start. So long as QB Tarvaris Jackson plays, Rice becomes a player to start because of their chemistry. WR Doug Baldwin continues to has flounder since he broke on the scene a few weeks ago as a fantasy sleeper. While he still may be a player that can be used in the bye weeks, consider all of your options because he can disappear from the stat column. RB Marshawn Lynch is a candidate for weekly consideration because he is the team’s main rushing threat and games like this certainly reflect his upside. However, the Seahawks lost both their starting right guard and right tackle as a result of this game. As this is the most popular side of the line for running backs, Lynch may struggle in the coming weeks. The Seahawks DST is generally not a unit to be considered in fantasy except in a good match-up.
NEXT UP: at Rams
Sunday, November 13th
4:15 p.m. EST
LIONS (6-3) 13 v. 37 BEARS (6-3)
Lions: The Lions looked awful against the Bears. Not to say, QB Matthew Stafford (329 yds., 1 TD, 4 INTs) didn’t pass a bunch, but the four interceptions just killed his fantasy value this week. Indeed, besides some yards, WR Calvin Johnson (81 yds., 1 fMBL) did not have a meaningful game for fantasy footballers this week. Neither did WR Nate Burleson (93 APY, 1 FMBL), WR Titus Young (74 yds.), or TE Brandon Pettigrew (38 yds.). TE Tony Scheffler (37 yds., 1 TD) had his second week with back-to-back TDs. With RB Jahvid Best still out, RB Maurice Morris (50 APY) struggled in the running game, but this was expected against the Bears. The Lions DST (2 sacks, 1 DFR) was tough, but the stats and score do not reflect this.
Fantasy Spin: QB Matthew Stafford, WR Calvin Johnson, RB Jahvid Best (when healthy), TE Brandon Pettigrew, and the Lions DST remain must-starts each and every week. As for WR Nate Burleson, he is still hit or miss. RB Maurice Morris is nothing more than a flex-play.
NEXT UP: Panthers
Bears: Amazing! Two weeks in a row, the Bears played some incredible football with the Bears DST (2 sacks, 4 INTs, 2 DFRs, 2 DTD, 1 KRTD) playing strong for the win. Otherwise, the Lions did a good job limiting the Bears offense. QB Jay Cutler (123 yds., 18 rush yds., 0 TDs, 1 FMBL) struggled against a sweltering Lions pass rush. The Lions also did a good job limiting RB Matt Forte (67 APY, 1 TD), but the touchdown helped. Otherwise, WR Earl Bennett (81 yds.) was the team’s most productive receiver, yet again.
Fantasy Spin: Right now, QB Jay Cutler is worth fantasy consideration if your starter pulls a tough match-up. However, if the Bears offensive line can continue protecting Cutler, he is certainly worth a weekly start. RB Matt Forte is the Bears player to play each and every week. WR Earl Bennett continues to be the team’s best receiving threat and is worth adding off waivers. The Bears DST remains a unit worth fantasy consideration because of its potential to cause turnovers and make the big plays, like it did, yet again, in this game. Besides, the Bears’ pass coverage has improved immensely in the past three games.
NEXT UP: Chargers
GIANTS (6-3) 20 v. 27 FORTY-NINERS (8-1)
Giants: If you are a Giants fan, you can’t be happy with the loss. But, the fact of the matter is the Giants played a tough Forty-Niners defense really well. QB Eli Manning (311 yds., 4 rush yds., 2 TDs, 2 INTs) has a good game but for the turnovers. Manning’s performance was so good that all of his receiving options posted good fantasy stats including WR Mario Manningham (77 yds., 1 TD), WR Victor Cruz (84 yds.), and WR Hakeem Nicks (41 yds., 1 TD) were factors in the offense. TE Jake Ballard (35 yds.), however, didn’t have the kind of game fantasy footballers would have wanted. With RB Ahmad Bradshaw out due to injury, RB Brandon Jacobs (72 APY) and RB Danny Ware (68 APY) had much better games than expected against the No. 1 fantasy rush defense. The Giants DST (2 sacks, 1 INT) wasn’t as good as expected.
Fantasy Spin: This week, QB Eli Manning continued to show why he can be such a good quarterback. With the way the Giants passing game has come alive, WR Hakeem Nicks, WR Victor Cruz, and WR Mario Manningham can all be on fantasy gridirons on a weekly basis. Also, when healthy, RB Ahmad Bradshaw and RB Brandon Jacobs remain an RB2 and an RB3/flex-play, respectively. With Bradshaw out, Jacobs continues to be a solid RB2. TE Jake Ballard continues to be a factor in the offense and worth a start. The Giants DST can continue to be started in fantasy.
NEXT UP: Eagles
Forty-Niners: If you had told The Fantasy Greek (and any other fantasy prognosticators) in the pre-season that the Forty-Niners would be 8-1 entering Week 10, no one would have looked at you normally. Yet, here they are. The Forty-Niners are a run first team. Yet, in this game, their running game was not very good with RB Frank Gore (8 yds.) leaving to injury and RB Kendall Hunter (44 APY, 1 TD) only doing well because of the touchdown. Otherwise, the Forty-Niners had to play good enough for good field position to get their kicking game going. QB Alex Smith (242 yds., 27 rush yds., 1 TD, 1 INT) was good but not great. Besides TE Vernon Davis (40 yds., 1 TD) and TE Delanie Walker (69 yds.), WR Michael Crabtree (21 yds.), WR Braylon Edwards (47 yds.), and WR Ted Ginn, Jr. (39 yds.) were limited. The Forty-Niners DST (1 sack, 2 INTs) was challenged, but still a good play.
Fantasy Spin: It goes without saying that that you should continue starting RB Frank Gore (when healthy) and TE Vernon Davis in fantasy. Fantasy footballers with Gore on their roster need to handcuff him with Hunter. QB Alex Smith continues to show that he remains a viable QB2, bye-week replacement, or match-up based play. WR Michael Crabtree is still worth WR3 consideration. The Forty-Niners DST is one of the best, if not the best defense in fantasy. The Forty-Niners are worth a start week in, week out.
NEXT UP: Cardinals
Sunday, November 13th
8:20 p.m. EST
PATRIOTS (6-3) 37 v. 16 JETS (5-4)
Patriots: The Patriots dominated the Jets in this win. QB Tom Brady (329 yds., 3 TDs, 0 INTs) surgically tore apart the Jets pass defense. While WR Wes Welker (46 yds.) was limited, TE Rob Gronkowski (113 yds., 2 TDs) dominated, and WR Deion Branch (58 yds., 1 TD) made for a good play for fantasy footballers. Unfortunately, TE Aaron Hernandez (41 yds.) wasn’t a big part of the offense this week. Again, it was surprising that the Patriots got away from the rushing game with primary RB Ben Jarvus Green-Ellis (8 yds.) being a non-factor. The Patriots DST (5 sacks, 2 INTs, 1 DTD) dominated the Jets offense.
Fantasy Spin: QB Tom Brady and WR Wes Welker are weekly must-starts, as is TE Rob Gronkowski and TE Aaron Hernandez. WR Deion Branch remains a decent match-up based WR3 or bye-week replacement. Unfortunately, RB Ben Jarvus Green-Ellis has been a non-factor as of late. Yet, based on how thin the group of running backs are in fantasy, he is still worth consideration as a low-RB2, but more so as a flex-play. The Patriots DST was good in this game and are worth a match-up based play at best.
NEXT UP: Chiefs
Jets: This was an ugly loss for the Jets who really needed a morale boost that a win in this game would have provided. QB Mark Sanchez (306 yds., 11 rush yds., 2 TDs, 2 INTs) had to throw a bunch. While it made a difference in fantasy, it didn’t make a big difference on the gridiron. Still, WR Santonio Holmes (93 yds.) had a pretty good game and WR Plaxico Burress (39 yds., 1 TD) was helped by the touchdown. Unfortunately, while he had the chances, TE Dustin Keller (37 yds.) disappointed if you started him. Speaking of underperforming, the Jets rushing game had another rough week with RB Shonn Greene (75 APY) having a mediocre game. The Jets DST (1 SFTY) couldn’t stop a good Patriots offense.
Fantasy Spin: QB Mark Sanchez is a still no better than a bye week replacement. However, continue to start WR Santonio Holmes because of his chances of getting a majority of the pass yards on this team, as well as the prospects of the periodic touchdown. WR Plaxico Burress has had a couple of decent games, mostly because of the touchdowns. Burress looks like a WR3 going forward. As for TE Dustin Keller, he remains a match-up based play as a TE2. Continue giving RB Shonn Greene the starts as an RB2 because he continues to be the team’s rushing workhorse. The Jets DST remains a weekly must-start.
NEXT UP: Broncos (Thursday Night Football)
Monday, November 14th
8:30 p.m. EST
VIKINGS (2-7) 7 v. 45 PACKERS (9-0)
Vikings: We expected a little bit more from QB Christian Ponder (190 yds., 17 rush yds., 0 TDs, 1 INT) against a pass defense that has struggled this season. With that, WR Percy Harvin (70 APY) and TE Visanthe Shiancoe (33 yds.) didn’t do as much as expected. The Packers did a good job limiting RB Adrian Peterson (51 yds., 1 TD). The Vikings DST (2 sacks) struggled against a very, very good offense.
Fantasy Spin: Regardless of what happened here, QB Christian Ponder is still a fantasy worthy quarterback, for now. RB Adrian Peterson is the only player on this team to be started in fantasy each and every week. Both WR Percy Harvin and TE Visanthe Shiancoe are fantasy-relevant, but should be considered along with your other options.
NEXT UP: Raiders
Packers: While the Vikings may not be the best opponent the Packers have played, the Packers are still the best team in football. QB Aaron Rodgers (350 yds., 21 rush yds., 4 TDs, 0 INTs) continued to dominate and almost all the Packers receivers did something in this game either through yardage, or yardage and TDs including WR Greg Jennings (32 yds., 1 TD), WR Jordy Nelson (63 yds., 2 TD), and TE Jermichael Finley (67 yds.). RB James Starks (74 APY) was solid again. The Packers DST (3 sacks, 1 INT, 1 KRTD) continued to make plays.
Fantasy Spin: QB Aaron Rodgers, WR Greg Jennings, WR Jordy Nelson, and TE Jermichael Finley should continue to be started on a weekly basis. Even though, The Fantasy Greek would point out that TE Jermichael Finley has disappeared from the offense at times, he is still too good in this offense. WR James Jones remains a low end WR3 in this offense. RB James Starks continues to outpace RB Ryan Grant (23 APY). Starks remains a solid consideration as a low RB2 or flex-play. Keep starting the Packers DST.
NEXT UP: Buccaneers
Good luck this weekend!