Offensive Tackle Nate Solder

“Where’s the pass rush?”

Most New England fans wanted to see a big name pass rusher here, especially after Mel Kiper had been throwing around names like Cameron Jordan and Ryan Kerrigan. When is Mel Kiper ever wrong? Remember, for those of you not keeping track at home, Mel Kiper is the guy who scratched his head and got confused when the Patriots drafted Logan Mankins in the first round of the 2005 draft. Offensive linemen may not be the most exciting picks in the draft (and let’s face it, the draft is a hyped up entertainment event for TV when it’s really a big crapshoot), but you can bet your rear end that Tom Brady has been able to stay so good for so long because of the blocking he’s gotten from the likes of Mankins. Belichick is notorious for trading down out of his draft picks, and it’s become common for him not to make high first round picks. What players has he drafted in the top 20 in his Patriots tenure? Richard Seymour, Ty Warren, Jerod Mayo, and now Solder. It’s worth noting that other first round picks include Brandon Meriweather (24th), Vince Wilfork (21st), and Devin McCourty (27th).

More often than not, Bill Belichick hits on his first round draft picks, and most of the time they make fans scratch their heads. It’s pretty fitting that one of the most buzzed about, most liked drafts (in terms of draft grades that come out a week later, before any rookie has even set foot on the field) Belichick had ended up being by far his worst. In 2006 the Patriots were supposed to have struck gold with Laurence Maroney in the first round, Chad Jackson in the second round, and David Thomas in the third. The only one of these three who has even amounted to anything is Thomas, but he is by no means stellar. It just goes to show how valuable post-draft “grades” are. Back to the matter at hand, Belichick made this pick because Solder is basically an immovable object and the Patriots have to get ready to move on from Matt Light. They may even have to face a future without Logan Mankins, which would open up a huge hole on their line. Keeping the 34 year old Tom Brady upright has to be a top priority for the Patriots.

Cornerback Ras-I Dowling

“Still no pass rusher?”

Many fans ache over Belichick’s “terrible” drafting because instead of pass rushers Brooks Reed or Jabaal Sheard, the Pats elected to use the 33rd overall pick on often-injured cornerback Ras-I Dowling. It’s just too bad that the focus isn’t on how good of a cover corner Dowling is when healthy and how none of the injuries Dowling have battled should become long-term concerns. Additionally, look at the Patriots defensive backs. McCourty, a Pro Bowler in his rookie year, is a stud, but after that it’s almost safe to label Darius Butler a bust, and Kyle Arrington doesn’t seem good enough to be counted on in a major role. Sure Leigh Bodden is coming back, but after missing the entire 2010 season his health is a question mark, and if he returns to form, can it really hurt to have three really good cornerbacks? I think the Packers just won a Super Bowl with three guys named Woodson, Williams, and Shields, and you can never have too many stoppers in your secondary when you have to beat guys like Peyton Manning and Ben Roethlisberger to make a trip to the Super Bowl. Taking this all into account, I have yet to hear a good reason why the team with the worst third down conversion percentage on defense by far doesn’t need a cover corner. Sure a good secondary can only do so much without a good pass rush, but keep in mind the Patriots led the NFL in sacks in the second half of last season, have Ty Warren coming back for 2011, should be able to see developmental progress from Jermaine Cunningham and Rob Ninkovich, and can also target some pretty good free agents. It’s not Bill Belichick’s philosophy to draft pass rushers as most of them bust, so it’s not the end of the world that he neglected this area of need in the draft. This is a problem that could probably fix itself if given another year.

Running back Shane Vereen

“This might be alright, but waiting on that pass rusher…”

After an ACL tear last season coupled with his advanced age, Kevin Faulk is probably done. They shouldn’t count on him to come back, and even if he does Fred Taylor is gone. As likable as he is, BenJarvus Green-Ellis just didn’t force any defenses to respect New England’s running game, so even though Green-Ellis and Woodhead seems like a capable tandem, this is an upgrade that had to be made. Vereen provides more of a home run threat than Green-Ellis (who will probably still do most of the heavy lifting on the ground), who was rather pedestrian against better-than-average defensive units. The Law Firm is serviceable and a fan favorite, but if he’s not going to keep the defense from loading up on defensive backs to stifle Tom Brady, they’ve got to find a running back who will. Around this point of the draft the Patriots could have taken a pass rusher like Justin Houston, but Belichick obviously didn’t see a fit for his defensive schemes. If he did, he would have pulled the trigger on somebody.

Running back Stevan Ridley

“What..the…hell?”

Last season, New England’s running back rotation was Green-Ellis, Woodhead, Fred Taylor, Kevin Faulk, and Sammy Morris. The Pats can’t expect Faulk to come back and Taylor’s contract is expiring. Taylor is old, hasn’t shown that he’s got a lot left in his tank, and thus is expendable. Sammy Morris is pretty old too, which means the only guys the Patriots have whom they can count on going forward are Green-Ellis and Woodhead. And only time will tell whether or not Woodhead is for real or just a one year wonder who quickly gained a cult following. Still, for a team that spreads its carries around, it’s not like the Patriots to go with two backs. Vereen and Ridley are upgrades over the veterans they have and will become developmental guys who may be able to carry a big load for the offense if needed. Taking two running backs back-to-back may look just downright stupid to some, but taking two tight ends named Gronkowski and Hernandez worked out all right last year. Best case scenario could be the same sort of results out of the backfield. Imagine the passing lanes a more electric running game could open up.

Quarterback Ryan Mallett

“Now this is interesting, but a pass rusher would be nice”

As a Patriots fan, even I was confused that the Pats didn’t select a defensive lineman to this point (mostly because bust-rate of pass rushers aside, it’s hard to downgrade from Brandon Deaderick and Gerard Warren), but I think the consensus of the entire fanbase is that this was a very good pick for the Pats. Tom Bradly (tragically) won’t be around forever, and at 34 it’s not too early to start grooming a successor. Mallett has the arm, the accuracy, and the football IQ to be a true big-time QB, but his behavioral issues scared most teams away. Where better for him to mature than New England? They even kept Randy Moss in line for a few years, and in general this is just a locker room with a history for keeping immature players in line. If he doesn’t work out, he can be cut at no cost. If it does work out, the Pats just used a measly third round draft pick for a guy who could turn out so good that the Patriots don’t even lose a step after Brady retires.

Offensive Lineman Marcus Cannon

This isn’t the last guy the Pats drafted, but frankly it’s the last guy I’ve even heard of and to be blunt, probably the lowest-selected guy in New England’s draft class who has a good chance to amount to anything. Cannon has been described by pundits as “first or second round talent” but fell all the way down to round 5 because of a treatable form of cancer. He will miss likely all of the upcoming season from chemotherapy and his recuperation, but the year after that he’ll be back, and if he can beat cancer, he’s got the willpower to succeed in the NFL. Like Solder, Cannon is one of those immovable objects and his blocking prowess will probably lead to Tom Brady buying the man a few steaks before the golden boy’s career is all said and done. In 2011 he won’t have an impact barring something incredible and miraculous, but in the long run he is the successor to retired guard Stephen Neal and may move over to the other side of the line if the disgruntled Logan Mankin jumps ship. Not a pass rusher, but in a division filled with elite pass rushers, Bill Belichick has shown he’s one step ahead of the game once again by loading up on blockers to negate the blitzing.

As always, the NFL Draft is a total crapshoot, and it’s completely pointless to try and grade the drafting mere days after teams are through making their selections. With my concluding thought, I’d just like to remind everyone that it’s usually a good thing when Bill Belichick’s decision-making confuses everyone else.

The Raiders formally admitted the biggest mistake in franchise history this offseason, dumping former top overall pick JaMarcus Russell. He’s now part of a criminal trial, and is (shockingly) still a free agent.

Meanwhile, the Raiders move on. But to what?

Let’s look at the fantasy value, if there is any, on the Raiders’ roster.

Quarterback

Jason Campbell got out of Washington, which was a cancerous situation for him, but now comes to Oakland where things might not be much better. The Raiders actually made a solid move in adding Campbell to the mix. His fantasy value is still highly questionable, however, and he should be viewed as little more than an injury replacement or bye week start based on matchups.

Running Backs

Can Darren McFadden become the lightning bolt he was at Arkansas? That’s the question that will continue to plague the Raiders and fantasy owners. His enormous talent makes him a tempting option, but his production hasn’t been worthy of a starting RB spot yet. Add to his lack of production three lost fumbles in only 125 touches last year, and his value is similar to Campbell: late round if at all.

Michael Bush is the more intriguing play. His skill set is more traditional than McFadden and he averaged 4.8 yards per carry last year in limited action. Bush should be considered a strong RB2 candidate in the late rounds.

Wide Receivers

This group is a wild card because of the improvement made under center in Campbell. Can Darrius Heyward-Bay be anything more than a track star? Is Louis Murphy ready to emerge as a legit receiver after leading the team with four touchdowns last year? What is Chaz Schillens worth in fantasy?

It’s nearly impossible to put stock in any of these receivers because none of them have a track record of success in the NFL; Murphy’s the best option, and he had only 34 catches for 521 yards last year. This group might be wait-and-see this year.

Tight End

This is the best bet for fantasy value on the Raiders’ offense in 2010. Not only did Zach Miller have a very respectable 66 receptions for over 800 yards last year with three touchdowns, but Campbell has a history of using tight ends well in the red zone in Washington. Miller should be considered a strong second-tier TE play and could be a solid starting TE play this year.

Defense

On teams that struggle offensively, the other side of the ball is usually where a lot of IDP fantasy value can be found. Oakland is no exception this season. Looking around the AFC West, this unit could provide a lot of fantasy value this season. Kansas City reaffirmed their commitment to running the ball by adding Thomas Jones, and the departures and suspensions could make San Diego’s offense a mixed bag this year. The quarterbacks being a huge question mark in Denver, and the lack of Brandon Marshall, makes them a questionable offensive group as well.

Even with the departure of leading tackler Kirk Morrison, their linebacker group got a lot better with the additions of Kamerion Wimbley and first round pick Rolando McClain. Both of these guys should be considered top IDP linebacker plays in the AFC West.

In the secondary, Nnamdi Asomugha continues to be a top corner and could see his interception totals pick up this year. Without Brandon Marshall in Denver and with questions surrounding Vincent Jackson in San Diego, his job could get a lot easier this season.

The sleeper in this group could be Richard Seymour at DE. As hard as it is to say a franchise end is a sleeper, his production has yet to be stellar in Oakland. But with the quarterback questions in Denver and lack of veteran running backs in San Diego, as well as the questionable protection in Kansas City for Matt Cassel, Seymour could have a nice season in the sack category.

2010 Regular Season Schedule (all times ET)

The schedule for the Raiders is favorable, the product of them being a bad football team (again). Where the most value comes for fantasy owners is looking at Weeks 6-9 when many of the fantasy heavy-hitters have their bye weeks. The Raiders have a very nice schedule against some teams that could be vulnerable given matchups (with the exception of SF DEF), so that’s where the Raiders may provide waiver value for fantasy owners.

Coaching Philosophy

Whatever Al Davis says…

Can Derrick Morgan be a viable fantasy lineman in 2010?

UPDATED: August 24, 2010

The Defensive Lineman position is the shallowest Individual Defensive Player (IDP) spot to draft for. While there is a fair amount of consistency at this position year to year (this year’s Top 5 is basically the same as last year’s), the position depth is quite limited. That fact alone may be a solid argument for passing over top Linebackers and grabbing a Jared Allen or Justin Tuck with your initial IDP draft picks.

With linemen their weekly production is less consistent than with linebackers. Where tackles are fairly reliable week to week, sacks, which is what lineman are noted for, are significantly rare, and hard to predict. While getting a player with consistent yearly sack totals is a solid goal, I tend to look for those with consistent solo tackles.

One important bit of advice in drafting linemen is to aim for defensive ends over defensive tackles. Tackles tend to get less fantasy production opportunities. The majority of Linemen on this list, especially the top 25 are defensive ends. These are the playmakers.

Two rookies who could make an impact this year; Derrick Morgan for the Tennessee Titans and Brandon Graham for the Philadelphia Eagles. They barely sneaks into my top 50, but it would be wise to keep an eye on both, and perhaps stash them in dynasty leagues.

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*Scott will likely play OLB position in 2010, so IF he retains his DL eligibility (as he does in Yahoo and ESPN leagues) he is a solid DL pick. If your league lists him only as a LB, then he does not rank in the Top 50.

Top 50 IDP Linebacker Rankings

Top 50 IDP Defensive Back Rankings

Use our fantasy football service to be notified of any changes.

Odom will be wearing a different suit for the rest of 2009

Injuries are just tearing up the IDP fantasy landscape this season, including what seems like an unusually high number of the season-ending kind, for prominent players. We already lost guys like Brian Urlacher, Leodis McKelvin and Stewart Bradley for 2009, now this week we had a few more. Bengals sacks leader and top three fantasy defensive lineman Antwan Odom has a torn Achilles tendon. The Browns top line backer, D’Qwell Jackson is on the IR with a shoulder injury. The Chicago Bears have once again lost Pisa Tinoisamoa, and will require knee surgery. The Seahawks have lost Lofa Tatupa to a torn chest muscle, and after losing Bradley, the Eagles have now lost his replacement, Omar Gaither to an ankle injury.

The Seahawks also lost DE, Patrick Kerney indefinitely, and the Vikings have lost DB Antoine Winfield indefinitely as well.

The Eagles made about the only trade at the deadline. picking up Will Witherspoon from the St. Louis Rams. When Gaither stepped in to replace Bradley he did very well, fantasywise, so Witherspoon may be worth a look if you’re strapped at linebacker.

In place of Tatupa, the Seahawks will once again look to LB David Hawthorne. For those that recall, in week three when Hawthorne subbed for Tatupa, he had 16 tackles (15 solo) a pass deflection and an interception. He was the fantasy LB of the week. Most people are not paying attention because of the bye week, so snag him now.

For the Browns, they will turn to rookie Kaluka Maiava to fill Jackson’s mighty shoes. When he stepped in last week after D’Qwell’s injury he put up 6 tackles and a forced fumble, so he may be worth a look. Another potential replacement in Cleveland is another rookie, David Veikune.

On the bright side, the Steelers welcomed their star defensive player, Troy Polamalu back last week, and next week when the Seahawks return to action they should have DB Marcus Trufant back. Finally, the Colts get their stub DB, Bob Sanders back. Check the free agent pool for him.

–Week 7 IDP – Start ‘em–

–Defensive Linemen–

Andre Carter, WAS – Carter has been unusually productive so far this year. He’s still available in more leagues than he should be based on his top 5 DL performance so far. He makes a solid replacement for Odom, and he has a nice match up this week vs. the Eagles.

Is the Long wait over?

Chris Long, STL – Long has been the word to describe this kid’s road to fantasy prosperity. So far this season Long has been in a 3-man rotation at DL for the Rams, but James Hall’s injury (yes, yet another) opens the door for Chris to play fulltime.

Michael Johnson, CIN – With Odom out Johnson and Robert Geathers have to step up. Johnson has more upside.

Charles Johnson, CAR - With Julius Peppers playing so well, he’s been getting tag-teamed. That means more seams for Johnson to slip through.

Justin Smith, SFO – Smith has sucked this season, but he should own Houston this week. It may be his best game of the season.

–Linebackers–

Brian Cushing, HOU - I’ve been pitching Cushing and Seattle’s Aaron Curry all season, and they just keep getting better, yet they’re still widely available. D’Qwell Jackson says pick this kid up.

Will Witherspoon, PHI - As mentioned above, he steps right in for the Eagles. Look for him to try and prove his value in his first game.

Clay Mathews, GBP – Another rookie starting to make noise. He had 3 tackles, 2 sacks and a pass deflection last week.

Chase Blackburn, NYG – Michael Boley’s injury opened the door for Blackburn who had 8 solo tackles and a sack last week.

–Defensive Backs–

C.C. Brown, NYG – Is it possible for terrible to be good? Drew Brees took advantage of Brown’s horrendous play last week, and Brown ended up with a dozen solo tackles and 2 pass deflections. I would pick him up for use against another pass happy QB this week, but his value should be short lived.

Leon Hall, CIN – You remember the guy who tipped the ball to Brandon Stokely in Week 1 and caused the Bengals to lose the game on one of the freakiest plays of the season? That was Hall, who has been quietly redeeming himself ever since. This week he faces Jay Cutler. Nice match-up.

Dashon Goldson, SFO – Matt Schaub will be passing early and often. Nuff said.

Sabby Piscatelli, TBB – Sabby had a couple of slow weeks, then went on bye. He got dropped in a lot of leagues. If he’s available in yours, snap him up. Especially this week against Tom Brady.

–Current Top 40 IDP Statistical Fantasy Rankings through Week 6–

(These rankings are not based on opinion or projections, just stats)

Defensive Linemen	Team	Linebackers	Team	Defensive Backs	Team
1. Jared Allen	MIN	1. Patrick Willis	SF	1. Darren Sharper	NO
2. Andre Carter	WAS	2. Elvis Dumervil	DEN	2. Cedric Griffin	MIN
3. Antwan Odom	CIN	3. James Harrison	PIT	3. Louis Delmas	DET
4. Aaron Schobel	BUF	4. David Harris	NYJ	4. Antoine Bethea	IND
5. Justin Tuck	NYG	5. D.J. Williams	DEN	5. Oshiomogho Atogwe	STL
6. Jimmy Wilkerson	TB	6. Thomas Davis	CAR	6. Derek Cox	JAC
7. Julius Peppers	CAR	7. Brian Cushing	HOU	7. Charles Woodson	GB
8. Trent Cole	PHI	8. Curtis Lofton	ATL	8. Brandon McGowan	NE
9. Robert Mathis	IND	9. Ray Lewis	BAL	9. Eric Weddle	SD
10. Richard Seymour	OAK	10. Barrett Ruud	TB	10. Chris Hope	TEN
11. Marcus Stroud	BUF	11. D’Qwell Jackson	CLE	11. Ed Reed	BAL
12. Dwight Freeney	IND	12. Kirk Morrison	OAK	12. Leon Hall	CIN
13. Lawrence Jackson	SEA	13. London Fletcher	WAS	13. Brian Dawkins	DEN
14. Greg Ellis	OAK	14. Stephen Tulloch	TEN	14. Brodney Pool	CLE
15. Kevin Williams	MIN	15. James Laurinaitis	STL	15. Tyvon Branch	OAK
16. Jarret Johnson	BAL	16. Chad Greenway	MIN	16. Johnathan Joseph	CIN
17. Patrick Kerney	SEA	17. Keith Bulluck	TEN	17. Antrel Rolle	ARI
18. Adewale Ogunleye	CHI	18. Mike Peterson	ATL	18. Abram Elam	CLE
19. Osi Umenyiora	NYG	19. Aaron Curry	SEA	19. DeAngelo Hall	WAS
20. Robert Geathers	CIN	20. Keith Ellison	BUF	20. Terence Newman	DAL
21. Mario Williams	HOU	21. Stephen Cooper	SD	21. Champ Bailey	DEN
22. Charles Grant	NO	22. Larry Foote	DET	22. Sabby Piscitelli	TB
23. James Hall	STL	23. E.J. Henderson	MIN	23. George Wilson	BUF
24. Cullen Jenkins	GB	24. Daryl Smith	JAC	24. Jairus Byrd	BUF
25. Mike Wright	NE	25. Thomas Howard	OAK	25. Ryan Clark	PIT
26. Will Smith	NO	26. Jon Beason	CAR	26. Aqib Talib	TB
27. Kroy Biermann	ATL	27. Eric Barton	CLE	27. Chris Johnson	OAK
28. Chris Kelsay	BUF	28. Leonard Little	STL	28. Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie	ARI
29. Trevor Pryce	BAL	29. Lance Briggs	CHI	29. Mike Brown	KC
30. John Abraham	ATL	30. Julian Peterson	DET	30. Al Harris	GB
31. Kyle Williams	BUF	31. DeMeco Ryans	HOU	31. Michael Huff	OAK
32. Victor Abiamiri	PHI	32. Kamerion Wimbley	CLE	32. Danieal Manning	CHI
33. Shaun Rogers	CLE	33. Terrell Suggs	BAL	33. Asante Samuel	PHI
34. Cliff Avril	DET	34. Akeem Jordan	PHI	34. Roman Harper	NO
35. Albert Haynesworth	WAS	35. Scott Shanle	NO	35. Dawan Landry	BAL
36. Darren Howard	PHI	36. Lawrence Timmons	PIT	36. Jabari Greer	NO
37. Bryan Thomas	NYJ	37. Antonio Pierce	NYG	37. Jordan Babineaux	SEA
38. Mathias Kiwanuka	NYG	38. Keith Brooking	DAL	38. Charles Tillman	CHI
39. Juqua Parker	PHI	39. Andra Davis	DEN	39. Antoine Winfield	MIN
40. Ray Edwards	MIN	40. Rocky McIntosh	WAS	40. Nate Clements	SF

Other reads:

Week 7 – QB Start Sit

Week 7 – RB Start Sit

Week 7 – WR Start Sit

Week 7 – TE Start Sit

Weekly Start Sit Advice Column

Andre Johnson could have another big fantasy week.

Minnesota at Pittsburgh

- 1:00 pm EST Sunday

Pittsburgh hasn’t allowed a running back to eclipse 100 yards in a couple years. Adrian Peterson doesn’t care. The Vikings’ back blew up all over the Ravens defense last week, and the Vikings handled a good Baltimore defense easily. They did, however, give up plenty of yards and, if the Ravens kicker did his job, the Vikings wouldn’t be undefeated right now.

The Steelers have formally made the transition to Rashard Mendenhall as their number one back, but reality in Steel Town is that this is a pass-happy offense led by Ben Roethlisberger. Hines Ward is coming off a big game, and Mike Wallace is quietly winning Big Ben’s confidence in the deep game. Just like last week, this smells like a defensive battle but will end up a high scoring game.

Fantasy Projections

Brett Favre: 290 yards, 3 TDs, 1 INT

Adrian Peterson: 120 total yards, 1 TD, 1 lost fumble

Sidney Rice: 125 yards, 1 TD

Percy Harvin: 90 return yards, 90 rec yards, 1 TD

Visanthe Shiancoe: 60 yards, 1 TD

Ben Roethlisberger: 330 yards, 3 TDs

Rashard Mendenhall: 90 total yards, 1 TD

Hines Ward: 80 yards, 1 TD

Mike Wallace: 100 yards, 1 TD

Heath Miller: 50 yards, 1 TD

Santonio Holmes: 90 yards

Final Score: Steelers 34 – Vikings 31

Green Bay at Cleveland – 1:00 pm EST Sunday

Cleveland is not very good in any aspect of the game. Derek Anderson has struggled, Jamal Lewis has been banged up, and their defense hasn’t stopped anyone. The Browns are also dealing with a team-wide flu issue this week, with as many as 30 players being reportedly effected.

Meanwhile, the Packers are good. Aaron Rodgers has weapons and an arm, Ryan Grant has had a pretty good start, and the transition to the 3-4 defense hasn’t been as bad as many thought it might have been. The Packers blanked the Lions last week, while the Browns lost to the Steelers.

Fantasy Projections

Aaron Rodgers: 300 yards, 3 TDs

Ryan Grant: 130 total yards

Greg Jennings: 120 yards, 1 TD

Donald Driver: 90 yards, 1 TD

JerMichael Finley: 40 yards, 1 TD

GB DEF: 3 takeaways, 3 sacks

Derek Anderson: 180 yards, 1 TD, 3 INTs

Jamal Lewis: 75 total yards

Mohamed Massaquoi: 70 yards, 1 TD

Joshua Cribbs: 200 return yards, 40 rec yards, 1 TD

Final Score: Packers 27 - Browns 14

San Diego at Kansas City – 1:00 pm EST Sunday

The Chargers are coming off a tough defeat against the Broncos on Monday night. LaDanian Tomlinson was surprisingly vocal with his disappointment, and the Chargers defense was lazy (as usual) in the loss. As the Broncos continue winning, the charge will be on the rest of the AFC West to find a way to stay close.

On the other side, the Chiefs busted the doughnut they had in the win column by defeating the Washington Redskins this past Sunday. However, if we’ve learned anything this year, it’s that anyone can beat the Redskins. Matt Cassell only threw for 189 yards against Washington, with 109 of it to Dwayne Bowe. They cannot afford to be that narrow with their aim against the Chargers.

Fantasy Projections

Philip Rivers: 290 yards, 2 TDs

LaDanian Tomlinson: 70 total yards

Darren Sproles: 170 return yards, 110 offensive yards

Vincent Jackson: 90 yards, 1 TD

Antonio Gates: 80 yards, 1 TD

Matt Cassell: 220 yards, 2 TDs, 1 INT

Larry Johnson: 100 total yards, 1 TD

Dwayne Bowe: 95 yards, 1 TD

Mark Bradley: 70 yards, 1 TD

Final Score: Chargers 23 – Chiefs 21

San Francisco at Houston – 1:00 pm EST Sunday

The Texans had a monster fantasy week against Cincinnati last week, as Matt Schaub threw for nearly 400 yards in the victory. San Francisco’s defense has been good this year, but they don’t have enough size at the corner positions to match up with Andre Johnson. Johnson and Schaub, together, could have a big week.

The Niners, though, are coming off a bye week and are playing for a division crown. Not only will they be well rested, but they’ll introduce the world to Michael Crabtree. Whether or not Crabtree makes an impact is questionable, but San Francisco’s defense will have to contain the Texans for this game to be close.

Fantasy Projections

Shaun Hill: 200 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT

Frank Gore: 110 total yards, 1 TD

Vernon Davis: 85 yards, 1 TD

Michael Crabtree: 70 yards

Matt Schaub: 310 yards, 3 TDs

Steve Slaton: 65 yards

Andre Johnson: 150 yards, 2 TDs

Owen Daniels: 70 yards, 1 TD

Final Score: Texans 27 – 49ers 17

New York Jets at Oakland – 4:15 pm EST Sunday

The Jets have played everyone they’ve faced tough this year, but the honeymoon is over for Mark Sanchez. The rookie quarterback has thrown a lot of interceptions after getting off to a solid start, and is looking like the kid he is. Thomas Jones is having a good season, and the addition of Braylon Edwards helps spread defenses out. But Sanchez is still learning on the job.

Enter the Raiders, who surprised most people by upsetting the Eagles last week. Richard Seymour told a Bay Area radio show this week that the Raiders are going to make the playoffs this year, but still have not received even decent play from JaMarcus Russell. If the Raiders have a shot in this game, they’re going to need turnovers, a good pass rush, and they’re going to have to run the ball. I think they’ll accomplish all of those objectives.

Fantasy Projections

Mark Sanchez: 220 yards, 1 TD, 2 INTs

Thomas Jones: 110 total yards, 1 TD

Braylon Edwards: 80 yards

Dustin Keller: 50 yards, 1 TD

Leon Washington: 160 return yards, 80 total offensive yards, 1 TD

LaMarcus Russell: 190 yards, 2 TD, 1 INT

Justin Fargas: 90 total yards

Zach Miller: 90 yards, 1 TD

Louis Murphy: 40 yards, 1 TD

OAK DEF: 3 takeaways, 2 sacks, 1 TD

Final Score: Raiders 24 – Jets 21

Chicago at Cincinnati – 4:15 pm EST Sunday

The Bears come into this game after an embarassing loss at Atlanta in prime time. They turned the ball over in the red zone and, again, couldn’t establish a run game. But they’re going against a Bengals defense that gave up miles of yardage to the Texans last week and are going to be without Antwan Odom for the rest of the season. The Bears might not run the ball well on Sunday, but they might not need to for a win.

However, the Bears defense is banged up and vulnerable and Chad Ochocinco has been tweeting the Bears’ players all week telling them about how he was going to make them look bad. Carson Palmer’s had a great start to his season, and Cedric Benson has found his mojo in Cincy. If anyone has something to prove, it’s Benson against the Bears. Look for the Bengals to give him his chance at redemption.

Fantasy Projections

Jay Cutler: 320 yards, 3 TDs, 1 INT

Matt Forte: 90 total yards, 1 TD

Devin Hester: 80 return yards, 90 offensive yards, 1 TD

Johnny Knox: 100 return yards, 100 rec yards, 1 TD

Earl Bennett: 80 yards

Greg Olson: 70 yards, 1 TD

Carson Palmer: 280 yards, 2 TDs

Cedric Benson: 150 total yards, 1 TD

Chad Ochocinco: 90 yards, 1 TD

Andre Caldwell: 90 return yards, 80 rec yards, 1 TD

Final Score: Bears 31 – Bengals 27

New Orleans at Miami – 4:15 pm EST Sunday

Drew Brees wrecked the Giants defense last week. The Saints offense looks unstoppable and is starting to be placed in historical perspective. They also have a defense this year, though, and should do as they please in South Florida on Sunday afternoon.

The Dolphins, though, have shown that you cannot sell thier Wildcat formation short. They have confused good defenses all year, and will look to do the same to provide Chad Henne with enough time to make enough mistake-free games to keep them in the game.

Fantasy Projections

Drew Brees: 290 yards, 3 TDs

Pierre Thomas: 90 yards, 1 TD

Marques Colston: 80 yards, 1 TD

Lance Moore: 90 yards, 1 TD

Jeremy Schockey: 50 yards, 1 TD

Chad Henne: 180 yards

Ronnie Brown: 110 total yards, 1 TD

Ricky Williams: 90 total yards, 1 TD

Ted Ginn Jr: 100 total yards

Final Score: Saints 33 – Dolphins 14

Todish plays wingman for Heff and the twins

We at Top Fantasy have decided to break up our weekly defense articles into team and individual columns. Unfortunately, my colleague Chris Todish and I got our wires crossed and we both did a team defense piece. Next week, look for Chris to keep you up -to-date with weekly IDP start and sit suggestions. This week, Chris is otherwise engaged. Apparently, Hugh Hefner needed a wingman, and Chris got the gig. I can’t fault a guy for playing the man card on that call. So this week I will endeavor to kick off his column for him. If all my suggestions turn out wrong, blame Chris and his fondness for Playboy bunnies.

Good news for the Buffalo Bills this week, and fantasy owners who drafted Donte Whitner and Paul Posluzney. Both players are back at practice, and one or both could play this week. Last week the Patriots got their star linebacker, Jerod Mayo back from his week one injury. He contributed 6 solo tackles and a forced fumble against the Broncos. This week the Steelers finally get their defensive catalyst, Troy Polamalu back from his week one injury against the Titans.

While Pittsburgh gets their spark plug back, they lost DE Aaron Smith for the season. This opens the door for rookie Evander “Ziggy” Hood to make his presence known. If you’re in a dynasty league, stash him on your bench now. In regular leagues, keep an eye on him the next couple of weeks. He could have fantasy potential in the second half of the season.

Speaking of the Steelers, linebacker, James Harrison finally broke out last week with a 7 tackle, 3 sack game. That’s what IDP owners drafted him for.

Another rookie DE to keep an eye on is the Seahawks, Nick Reed. Reed didn’t play in the first few games, but last week he saw limited action and tallied, 2 tackles, a sack, and a fumble recovery returned for a touchdown. As shallow as the depth is for fantasy defensive lineman, Reed is a guy to keep tabs on.

For the second straight week, defensive line stud, Jared Allen proved why he is fantasy’s top DL. After his Week 4 six tackle, 4.5 sack monster game, Allen had a quiet Week 5, with a fumble recovery returned for a touchdown.

Finally, while many owners drafted the Dolphins’ Gibril Wilson to be their top DB, he has been a let down so far. That is until last week when he had 11 tackles. I’m not saying he’s turned the corner, but he’s too good to have been so bad. Miami is on a bye this week, and many owners gave up and dumped him this week. If you have the bench depth, snag him from the FA pool and see, if week 5 was the start of his resurgence to top DB.

Jumpin' Jimmy Wilkerson

–Week 6 IDP – Start ‘em–

–Defensive Linemen–

Jimmy Wilkerson, TBB – Who the hell is Wilkerson? Until his defensive TD last week, he really hasn’t been on the fantasy radar. But through 5 games he has 5 sacks and an average of 3 solo tackles a week. The Panthers have the worst turnover stats in the league. He could have another nice week.

Glenn Dorsey, KCC – Dorsey has been a bust so far this season, but this weekend’s game against the Redskins could be his coming out party. Washington’s O-line is all banged up, and Dorsey should be able to get to Jason Campbell.

Antwan Odom, CIN – Odom was lights out to start the season then went dormant. Look for him to get back in the sack column against the Texans.

James Hall, STL – Hall looks to have a nice game vs. the Jaguars

–Linebackers–

Aaron Curry, SEA – One of my picks this season to become the next Patrick Willis. He started slowly but last week he had 10 tackles, a sack, a forced fumble and a pass defense. He’s warming up and should have a nice game vs. the Cardinals.

Paul Posluzney, BUF – Pos should be back on the field this week. Look for him to make the Jets miserable all day.

DeMeco meet the Bengals...

DeMeco Ryans, HOU – he’s been a bit of a disappointment in 2009, but look for a huge day against the Bengals. I like him to hit double figure tackles.

James Laurinaitis, STL - Another rookie favorite I’ve been touting all summer/fall. The Jags will run the ball a lot and that means J.L. should have a double-digit day.

–Defensive Backs–

Tyvon Branch, OAK – The sophomore has quietly been sneaking up the rankings and is now ranked 13th overall. This week he will face the pass happy Eagles. He should see lots of tackle and pass defense opportunities.

Abram Elam, CLE – Elam had a very quiet week against the Bills. Then again so did the whole team. This week he’ll be up against the pass happy Steelers. He should be back in the fantasy bling department.

Louis Delmas/Anthony Henry, DET – Aaron Rodgers likes to pass, so look for these guys to have a busy day.

Josh Wilson, SEA – Wilson should be back and healthy, and facing Kurt Warner’s air assault this week. Oh, and he returns kicks, if your league awards points for such things.

–Current Top 40 IDP Statistical Fantasy Rankings through Week 5–

(These rankings are not based on opinion or projections, just stats)