No one can accuse fantasy football owners for being a little concerned about using an Oakland Raider player in their fantasy lineup. The Raiders aren’t exactly the most fantasy friendly team in the NFL and don’t have a strong offense.

For all their problems, this organization has had I still believe there is one player that fantasy owners should consider starting this week in their fantasy football super bowl. That player is running back Michael Bush, and he has an opportunity to put of some solid numbers this week and help your fantasy football team win it all.

To Use or Not To Use

Last week Michael Bush’s number was called after starting tail back Justin Fargas injured his knee and had to leave the game against the Broncos.

Bush responded with 18 carries for 133 yards and a long touchdown run to help the Raiders beat the Broncos in Denver. This performance, is exactly why Raider fans have been screaming to see this young runner receive more touches.

This week the Raiders head out to Cleveland and take on the Browns in a very attractive running matchup for any running back that gets a decent amount of touches.

If Bush can receive the amount of work he got against the Broncos, fantasy owners could just about have a guarantee for solid production.

The only question is, “will Bush receive an opportunity to be the main runner again in this offense?”

Fantasy Football Strategy for Using Michael Bush

As of Thursday, Fargas has missed practice for both days of practice this week. If Fargas is unable to play this week, than the Raiders should use Bush as they did last week against the Broncos.

Unless Fargas comes back for a full practice on Friday, I believe Bush will receive an opportunity to help your fantasy football team.

At this time, I suggest if Fargas should come back and play this weekend than it would be best to sit Bush.

The Raiders have three running backs and fantasy owners can’t get reliable production from any one of them if they are all healthy.

Fortunately, the Raiders play an early mourning game so we will all be able to know if Fargas will be out before the game starts.

NFL Fantasy Football Player Rankings writer Sean E. Douglas: fantasy-info.com

What a game it was to see the Saints’ stomp all over the Patriots in all phases of the game. Drew Brees headlined a monumental victory that has now officially landed New Orleans on the map of true elite football teams.

As for Tom Brady and the Patriots, I haven’t given up hope for them to make a playoff run but the defense needs to step it up.

Below we have a short right up on the top ten teams on our power rankings for this season. These teams are important to know as they are playing well and should continue to help fantasy teams.

Furthermore, pay attention to the worst teams on the list as they are the teams you want to have your players going against down the stretch.

1. Saints (11-0)

After a huge decisive win against the New England Patriots the Saints are now a top our NFL Power Rankings once again. Drew Brees probably won the MVP award after he blasted the Patriots’ defense for five touchdowns and 371 yards passing on only 23 pass attempts!

This was an amazing performance and is one of those games that will be looked back on for a long time when people mention Brees and the Saints from this era. Look for New Orleans to roll over the Redskins next week and move to twelve and zero.

2. Colts (11-0)

The Colts haven’t won games in a pretty fashion the last month or so but they have won all their games. The Saints were this way until they stomped on the Patriots in a big time national televised game.

This up coming week the Colts will host the Titans in a big time clash of two strong teams. Look for the Colts to find a way to pull out another close victory.

3. Vikings (10-1)

It’s almost hard to remember the Steelers actually beating this team because the Vikings have played so well since that game. I actually had to look back at the schedule just to remember who actually beat this great team from Minnesota.

The Steelers had a few lucky turnovers and won the game in the fourth quarter, and I would suspect that is the only way a team can beat this squad. The Vikings are firing on all cylinders and are taking no prisoner’s.

Expect them to beat the Cardinals in Arizona this weekend by a decent margin.

4. Chargers (8-3)

This is a team I truly thought would never reach the top five teams in the NFL power rankings after the first month of play. Since losing to the Broncos in week six the Chargers haven’t lost a game and are winning in convincing fashion.

I fully expect them to smash the Browns next week in Cleveland. Get your fantasy football players in for that game.

5. Bengals (8-3)

After a quick dip to the Raiders two weeks ago the Bengals polished off the Browns at home. With Cedric Benson out the team turned to Bernard Scott and Larry Johnson to put the game away.

Both running backs had strong games and Johnson ran for over 100 yards. This week Benson is back and Scott has turf toe, so expect the Bengals to run Johnson and Benson together. There is no reason they shouldn’t beat the Lions this weekend.

6. Cowboys (8-3)

The Cowboys need to beat the Giants this weekend if they are going to win their division. Dallas has already lost to the Giants this year, and if they lose this game, they will only be one win better than the Giants.

That means if the Giants should mount a comeback and have the same record as Dallas than they will win the division. Look for the Cowboys to run the football and control the clock on the road.

7. Patriots (7-4)

Watching the Patriots get rolled over by the Saints only goes to show you that this team does not have the defense to be a Super Bowl team right now. I will never put it past this organization to put a run together in the playoffs but right now they are not a top five team in the NFL power rankings.

8. Cardinals (7-4)

The Cardinals lost a heart breaker to the Titans without Kurt Warner on the field. This weekend they may be without Warner again as they take on the Vikings at home. If the Cardinals lose this week and the 49ers win, than next week will be a huge game between the two in San Francisco.

It’s still a long shot for the 49ers to win the division, but if they do beat the Cardinals next week they will have the season sweep against them. If both teams comedown to a tie in record at the end than the 49ers would win the division in that scenario.

9. Eagles (7-4)

The Eagles pulled out a win against the lonely Redskins, but they had to do it in comeback fashion. In that game DeSean Jackson suffered a concussion and may miss this weeks tilt against the Falcons in Atlanta.

Even if Jackson is out I expect the Eagles to win the game with Matt Ryan and Michael Turner likely out.

10. Broncos (7-4)

The Broncos were able to stop their four game skid on Thanksgiving against Giants and won in convincing fashion. It looks like quarterback Kyle Orton is back and healthy as he had no problems finding his receivers all game long.

Expect the Broncos to make quick work of the Chiefs this weekend in Kansas City.

• 11. Packers (7-4)
• 12. Ravens (6-5)
• 13. Steelers (6-5)
• 14. Titans (5-6)
• 15. Giants (6-5)
• 16. Jaguars (6-5)
• 17. Falcons (6-5)
• 18. Texans (5-6)
• 19. 49ers (5-6)
• 20. Dolphins (5-6)
• 21. Jets (5-6)
• 22. Seahawks (5-6)
• 23. Panthers (4-7)
• 24. Bears (4-7)
• 25. Bills (4-7)
• 26. Chiefs (3-8)
• 27. Redskins (3-8)
• 28. Raiders (2-9)
• 29. Lions (2-9)
• 30. Buccaneers (1-10)
• 31. Browns (1-10)
• 32. Rams (1-10)

NFL Fantasy Football Player Rankings writer Sean E. Douglas: fantasy-info.com

This football game almost perfectly mirrored what happened in last weeks clash between the Broncos and Chargers, except in reverse. This week it was the Broncos that walked all over their opponent in Mile High.

Brandon Jacobs: A Huge Disappointment

Hopefully, this season doesn’t mark the end of a short stay in the top twenty fantasy football running backs for Brandon Jacobs. This season only marks the third year that Jacobs has been the starting tailback for the Giants and fantasy owners have been very disappointed in this big backs performance.

Coming into this season Jacobs was a clear top twelve fantasy running back after he had a big year in 2008.

Sure, Jacobs missed three games last year and has always been a little injury prone, but you could count on him to have some big rushing days and always score touchdowns. Those expectations were backed by his four games with over 100 yards and 15 touchdowns from a year ago.

This year through week twelve of the fantasy football season Jacobs has zero 100 yard games and only three touchdown scores.

Because of his lack of production the Giants were rolled over by the Broncos and have lost five of their last six games.

If Jacobs can’t turn his season around, I fully expect the Giants to miss the playoffs this season.

From a fantasy perspective, I wouldn’t recommend starting this runner until he starts showing signs of playing the way his is capable.

Denver Wins Big Game

The Broncos needed this game big time, and they won this game by pounding the football and going down the field to Brandon Marshall.

Between Knowshon Moreno and Correll Buckhaulter the Broncos controlled the game and wore the Giants’ defense down.

Moreno is starting to show why he was the top running back selected in this year NFL draft. He is running with explosion and in this game he held onto the football.

If he continues this play than he makes for a very solid No.2 / flex play in fantasy football the rest of the season.

Next year he should be drafted somewhere around the first four rounds of all fantasy drafts and will be a decent No.2 running back for your fantasy squad.

As for Marshall, he is a must start the rest of the season. Next year he should have an even better year as he will be a year removed from his hip surgery and will have an entire offseason to work with Kyle Orton.

Look for the Broncos to be strong again next year as long as they keep their defense solid.

NFL Fantasy Football Player Rankings writer Sean E. Douglas: fantasy-info.com

Last week was definitely a weird one in the world of fantasy football. Players like Bernard Scott and Jason Snelling came out of the wood work and helped fantasy owners win crucial games down the stretch of the season.

We even saw a flash from the past as players like Ricky Williams and Chris Chambers help lead their teams to victory.

Below we have a short right up on the top ten teams on our power rankings for this season. These teams are important to know as they are playing well and should continue to help fantasy teams.

Furthermore, pay attention to the worst teams on the list as they are the teams you want to have your players going against down the stretch.

1. Colts (10-0)

The Colts made it out of Baltimore with another victory but just barely as they won the game 17 to 15. This up coming week the Colts will travel to Houston to take on the Texans. The last time these two teams played in Indianapolis the Colts won a close game.

Look for the Texans to give the Colts everything they can handle, and I wouldn’t be surprised if they win.

2. Saints (10-0)

The Saints beat the Buccaneers for their tenth win of the season. Next week they will play the Patriots on Monday night, and I believe they will lose that game.

Fortunately the Saints will get back key players on both the offensive and defensive sides of the ball. Drew Brees should have a huge fantasy football scoring day against the Patriots as the game will be a scoring extravaganza.

3. Vikings (9-1)

If it wasn’t for the Saints and Colts being undefeated the Vikings would be on the top of our list of the power rankings. This team is strong in just about every category and this team should have home field advantage in the NFC when the regular season is over.

With Brett Favre playing on top of his game and Adrian Peterson in the backfield the Vikings should roll to the super bowl.

4. Patriots (7-3)

The Patriots bounced back strong after losing to the Colts at the last minute. This week they should put up a big scoring game against the New Orleans Saints on Monday night.

Look for Brady, Moss and Welker to have big days as the Patriots need to put up a lot of points to win in New Orleans.

5. Chargers (7-3)

Since losing to the Broncos in week six the Chargers have won their last five games. Just when you thought this team was down for the count with a bad offensive line, a defense that couldn’t stop the run and LT not playing up to his standards, they turn it all around.

Expect the Chargers to win the AFC West and probably finish in the AFC with the third or fourth best record.

6. Bengals (7-3)

After two big division wins the Bengals dropped a disappointing game to the Raiders in Oakland. This week they will come back home and play their final game in their division for the regular season against the Browns.

Look for Bernard Scott to continue as the starting tail back if Cedric Benson is out for this week. Carson Palmer and Chad Ochocinco should have strong games.

7. Cardinals (7-3)

The Cardinals are moving past the Cowboys in our NFL power rankings more because Dallas has played that bad than the Cardinals have played that good. Last week the Cardinals held on to beat the Rams without Kurt Warner, but it wasn’t pretty.

It looks like Warner will be a go this week against the Titans and that is good because they wouldn’t win this game without him.

8. Cowboys (7-3)

This season has been a major up and down year for the Cowboys’ passing game. All of a sudden, defense are putting their top corner on Miles Austin, and he is having problems beating coverage.

If the Cowboys’ struggle on Thanksgiving against the Raiders I wouldn’t be surprised.

9. Steelers (6-4)

The Steelers lost a gimmy game against the Chiefs and one has to think it’s because they failed to dominate in the running game. Rashard Mendenhall is a capable running back but if the Steelers don’t start showing a need to run the ball they will lose more games like this past week to the Chiefs.

Sooner or later the Steelers will have to run the ball to either keep Ben Roethlisberger healthy or because Roethlisberger is knock out and injured.

10. Eagles (6-4)

The Eagles make it back to the top ten teams on our NFL power rankings because the Broncos are backsliding into outer space.

This past week the Eagles won a hard hitting road game and proved they could run the football when they needed to. Running the ball is very important for all teams in the NFL and now that the Eagles have shown success under pressure it should help open up the deep ball again.

• 11. Packers (6-4)
• 12. Broncos (6-4)
• 13. Giants (6-4)
• 14. Jaguars (6-4)
• 15. Titans (4-6) Still a very good team when healthy
• 16. Ravens (5-5)
• 17. Falcons (5-5)
• 18. Texans (5-5) Need a new kicker
• 19. Dolphins (5-5)
• 20. 49ers (4-6)
• 21. Panthers (4-6)
• 22. Seahawks (4-6)
• 23. Jets (4-6)
• 24. Bears (4-6)
• 25. Chiefs (3-7)
• 26. Bills (3-7)
• 27. Redskins (3-7)
• 28. Raiders (2-8)
• 29. Lions (2-8)
• 30. Rams (1-9)
• 31. Buccaneers (1-9)
• 32. Browns (1-9)

NFL Fantasy Football Player Rankings writer Sean E. Douglas: fantasy-info.com

Week 12 in the NFL is all about the Monday night contest between the Saints and Patriots. No doubt we should see a shootout that should rival the Patriots vs Colts’ game we saw a few week’s ago.

This week we have our weekly section on wounded warriors, as well as our top rankings for top position players. We have the top 16 ranked QB, TE, K and D/ST ranked. We also have the top 30 RB’s and top 35 WR’s as well.

Wounded Warriors

Quarterbacks

Lions- Matthew Stafford- Unfortunately, Matthew Stafford injured his collar bone in the Lions come from behind victory against the Browns. Even more disappointing for Stafford is that he was just starting to find his grove with over 400 yards passing and five touchdowns in that game.

It looks like Stafford will miss this week’s early contest on Thanksgiving, but he will hopefully be back for week 13.

Broncos- Kyle Orton- The Broncos starting quarterback Kyle Orton didn’t start the game against the Chargers, but it did finish it. On Monday Orton practiced with the team and should play on Thanksgiving against the Giants.

Steelers- Ben Roethlisberger- The Steelers star quarterback suffered a concussion in over time against the Chiefs. So far, signs look good for Ben Roethlisberger’s odds of playing this week at Baltimore.

If he is unable to go than Dennis Dixon will get the start because Charlie Batch is out for the next six weeks.

Cardinals- Kurt Warner- The Cardinals lost Kurt Warner to a mild concussion against the Rams in the first half. It looks like Warner should play against the Titans, but if he is unable to go than Matt Leinart would start.

Rams- Marc Bulger- Just as the Rams were starting to play some solid football, they lose their starting quarterback for three to six weeks with a fractured tibia. This will probably end Marc Bulger’s season as the team will look to Kyle Boller the rest of the way.

Running Backs

Falcons- Michael Turner- The Falcons are still playing mind games about Michael Turner’s status. At this time, I would say he won’t be a go, unless he can practice in full at some point this week. The likely hood of him playing or practicing this week is not strong.

Look for Turner to probably not play as Jason Snelling will have a great start this week against the Buccaneers.

Bengals- Cedric Benson- It’s unknown if Cedric Benson will play this week against division rival Cleveland Browns. Just like Michael Turner’s situation, I believe we will need to see Benson practice in order for him to play.

If Benson doesn’t play this week than Bernard Scott should have another productive day against the Browns.

Seahawks- Julius Jones- The news on Monday from Seattle is that Julius Jones is supposed to come back to practice this week. Being able to practice and handling contact are two separate things for Jones in his situation.

Against the Cardinals, he injured his ribs and had been bleeding in his lung.

Look for Jones to practice but don’t be surprised if he doesn’t play this weekend. If he does suit up this week I would be very surprised if he starts over Justin Forsett.

Bills- Marshawn Lynch- The Bills lost their starting running back in the middle of last week’s game against the Jaguars. For now, the Bills are saying that Marshawn Lynch is day to day with a shoulder injury.

I wouldn’t be surprised if Lynch plays this week against the Dolphins but check his status before their early game on Sunday.

Wide Receivers

Lions- Calvin Johnson- This is probably the most unfortunate injury of the week as Calvin Johnson was just getting his grove back. In Johnson’s great performance against the Browns, he injured his hand and knee again.

Right now, it is believed that he is very doubtful to play in the Lions early Thursday game on Thanksgiving. Hopefully, the Lions and fantasy football owners will get Johnson back for week 13.

Quarterbacks

• Tom Brady @ Saints
• Drew Brees vs Patriots
• Aaron Rodgers @ Lions
• Peyton Manning @ Texans
• Matt Schaub vs Colts
• Philip Rivers vs Chiefs
• Donovan McNabb vs Redskins
• Brett Favre vs Bears
• Eli Manning @ Broncos
• Kurt Warner @ Titans (Assuming He Plays)
• Ben Roethlisberger @ Ravens (Assuming He Plays)
• Matt Ryan vs Buccaneers
• Carson Palmer vs Browns
• Matt Hasselbeck @ Rams
• Tony Romo vs Raiders
• Vince Young vs Cardinals

Running Backs

• Adrian Peterson vs Bears
• Chris Johnson vs Cardinals
• Maurice Jones-Drew @ 49ers
• Steven Jackson vs Seahawks
• Frank Gore vs Jaguars
• DeAngelo Williams @ Jets
• Ray Rice vs Steelers
• Ricky Williams @ Bills
• Thomas Jones vs Panthers
• Ryan Grant @ Lions
• Jason Snelling vs Buccaneers (Don’t Use if Turner Plays)
• LeSean McCoy vs Redskins
• LaDainian Tomlinson vs Chiefs
• Justin Forsett @ Rams (Should Start Even if Jones Plays)
• Marion Barber vs Raiders
• Pierre Thomas vs Patriots
• Joseph Addai @ Texans
• Steve Slaton vs Colts (He’s Back)
• Bernard Scott vs Browns (Don’t Start if Benson Plays)
• Knowshon Moreno vs Giants
• Kevin Smith vs Packers
• Rashard Mendenhall @ Ravens
• Brandon Jacobs @ Broncos
• Jonathan Stewart @ Jets
• Matt Forte @ Vikings
• Laurence Maroney @ Saints
• Beanie Wells @ Titans
• Marshawn Lynch vs Dolphins (Banged Up)
• Jamaal Charles @ Chargers
• Carnell Williams @ Falcons

Wide Receivers

• Randy Moss @ Saints
• Andre Johnson vs Colts
• Reggie Wayne @ Texans
• Vincent Jackson vs Chiefs
• Larry Fitzgerald @ Titans
• DeSean Jackson vs Redskins
• Mike Sims-Walker @ 49ers
• Sidney Rice vs Bears
• Chad Ochocinco vs Browns
• Wes Welker @ Saints
• Marcus Colston vs Patriots
• Roddy White vs Buccaneers
• Donald Driver @ Lions
• Anquan Boldin @ Titans
• Steve Smith (NY) @ Broncos
• Hines Ward @ Ravens
• Greg Jennings @ Lions
• Santonio Holmes @ Ravens
• Chris Chambers @ Chargers
• Miles Austin vs Raiders (What Have You Done Lately?)
• T.J. Houshmandzadeh @ Rams
• Mario Manningham @ Broncos
• Terrell Owens vs Dolphins (Turning Things Around)
• Brandon Marshall vs Giants
• Devin Hester @ Vikings
• Percy Harvin vs Bears
• Steve Smith (Car) @ Jets
• Jerricho Cotchery vs Panthers
• Lee Evans vs Dolphins
• Donnie Avery vs Seahawks
• Kenny Britt vs Cardinals
• Derrick Mason vs Steelers
• Mohamed Massaquoi @ Bengals
• Roy Williams vs Raiders
• Robert Meachum vs Patriots (All He Does is Catch Touchdowns)

Tight Ends

• Dallas Clark @ Texans
• Vernon Davis vs Jaguars
• Antonio Gates vs Chiefs
• Tony Gonzalez vs Buccaneers
• Brent Celek vs Redskins
• Visanthe Shaincoe vs Bears
• Jason Witten vs Raiders
• Greg Olsen @ Vikings
• Heath Miller @ Ravens
• Dustin Keller vs Panthers
• Jermichael Finley @ Lions
• John Carlson @ Rams
• Jeremy Shockey vs Patriots
• Todd Heap vs Steelers
• James Casey vs Colts
• Kevin Boss @ Broncos

Kickers

• Dave Akers vs Redskins
• Stephen Gostkowski @ Saints
• Nate Kaeding vs Chiefs
• Mason Crosby @ Lions
• Rob Bironas vs Cardinals
• Robbie Gould @ Vikings
• Shayne Graham vs Browns
• Kris Brown vs Colts
• Billy Cundiff vs Steelers
• Nick Folk vs Raiders
• Josh Brown vs Seahawks
• Josh Scobee @ 49ers
• Joe Nedney vs Jaguars
• Ryan Succop @ Chargers
• John Kasey @ Jets
• Niel Rackers @ Titans

Defense/ ST

• Eagles vs Redskins
• Cowboys vs Raiders
• Packers @ Lions
• Vikings vs Bears
• Ravens vs Steelers
• Chargers vs Chiefs
• Steelers @ Ravens (No.3 defense if Roethlisberger is Out)
• Bengals @ Browns
• Jets vs Panthers
• Jaguars @ 49ers
• Falcons vs Buccaneers
• Seahawks @ Rams
• 49ers vs Jaguars
• Giants @ Broncos
• Broncos vs Giants
• Patriots @ Saints

NFL Fantasy Football Player Rankings writer Sean E. Douglas: fantasy-info.com

I’m not one that usually writes a down piece about an organization or team, but it’s time to talk about the Cleveland Browns and their situation. After an embarrassing loss, this past Monday night to the Ravens it’s easy to see why fantasy owners will have continued success against this team.

This offseason I was willing to see the bright side of things for this team and where they could be headed.

I liked the fact that head coach Eric Mangini traded his top five draft pick down and got a bunch of picks for in return. Not only did the Browns acquire more picks, but they also got some decent defensive players from the New York Jets.

Seeing that Mangini was the head coach of the Jets just the season before it only seemed to make sense that these players would make an impact.

When Cleveland finally selected their first round pick, they took Cal Bears star center Alex Mack. I believed this was another strong move (still do) because it would help give them another talent on the offensive line.

Mangini did a nice job in New York building up his offensive line so this move only seemed to help the passing and running game.

A Step Towards Success / A Step Towards Disaster

As the summer progressed, I believed that the Browns would be fine in the long run if they could get Brady Quinn and Braylon Edwards going. Quinn needed to establish himself as the clear starter on the team and Edwards needed to re-establish himself as a true No.1 receiver.

Unfortunately, both of those players failed to do that and by week five of the season Quinn was benched for Derek Anderson and Edwards was traded away.

Before Anderson was benched after the team’s week eight loss to the Bears the offense didn’t produce much. One bright spot in that time was the off and on play of rookie wide receiver Mohamed Massaquoi.

Massaquoi was one of two second round receivers (other was Brian Robiskie) drafted by the Browns in April.

His highlight performance was against the Bengals week four when he totaled eight receptions for 148 yards. In that game, the Browns had their best offensive game of the season and this young receiver led the way.

Unfortunately, for Massaquoi, the team traded away Edwards the next week and now the rookie has to deal with being the top receiver on the team. With that title defenses will line up their best corner on you every week and this coverage hasn’t helped Massaquoi’s chances to produce.

Outside of Massaquoi development there isn’t much else to say about this offense in a positive light.

A Team Going Nowhere

With Quinn’s arrival back in the starting lineup on Monday night the team has become more conservative than ever. I’m not certain but I can’t remember more than maybe one play late in the game where the Browns’ threw a pass farther than ten yards.

That is bad against just about every defense in football but especially bad against the Baltimore Ravens. Just two week’s ago the Ravens dominated the Denver Broncos as their offense tried the same approach.

Defense’s will feed on an offense that can’t challenge down the field, and if you don’t try to get the ball down there they can easily keep the game in front of themselves.

If the Browns continue to play offense this way and run the football ineffectively than you should continue to start your fantasy players against this team.

As far as starting anyone on the Browns I can only recommend maybe Jamal Lewis or Massaquoi for this weekend coming up. Both players aren’t great plays, but they are getting an opportunity to play against the Detroit Lions.

Rookie running back Chris Jennings is starting to take work away from Lewis and if Lewis should suffer an injury, he might be worth a look.

Jennings isn’t an explosive runner, but he should be able to handle the ball twenty plus times for the last month or so of the season.

After this Season

It’s clear that Mangini needs to leave this organization, and they need a new outlook and fresh start. I’m not sure what it’s going to take for this team to get going in a positive direction, but they could use a strong running game for starters.

With a strong running game, they can keep their defense from staying of the field for long periods of time. This will be key because I can’t see the passing game being dependable in the next few seasons.

In short, it’s going to be awhile before this team is strong again so start your fantasy defenses against them and enjoy.

NFL Fantasy Football Player Rankings writer Sean E. Douglas: fantasy-info.com

San Diego is starting to put things together as they have now won four games in a row. This week they beat another formidable opponent and have a chance to take the division lead next week against the Broncos.

LT’s Not Done Yet

This past week I wrote a column saying LaDainian Tomlinson was washed up and done as a fantasy football running back. I considered him to be nothing more than a flex play for the rest of the season and I felt the Chargers would let him go at year’s end.

Today Tomlinson had a much better game than we’ve seen from him this entire season as he had two touchdowns and 96 yards on the ground.

Unless this game marks a 180 degree turnaround for Tomlinson I would suspect that he may have games like this from time to time. Beyond that don’t be surprised if he has some bad games as well.

Donovan McNabb Has 450 Yards Passing

The Eagles were a pass happy team in this game as Donovan McNabb had 55 pass attempts for the game. This team may have run the ball more often, but they got down early and were forced into throwing more than usual.

For the game McNabb had 450 yards passing and had two touchdown passes.

While the Eagles have been a heavy passing team this year they will probably have to continue to pass now that Brian Westbrook suffered another concussion.

Westbrook may very well be done for the season and the team will have to lean on LeSean McCoy for rushing production going forward.

NFL Fantasy Football Player Rankings writer Sean E. Douglas: fantasy-info.com

The Broncos started out fast but the Redskins battled back and pulled the upset victory out for the home town fans. The victory was led by starting running back Ladell Betts, who ran for over 100 yards.

Ladell Betts Runs Well

This week there were concerns that Betts wouldn’t even play in this game because of a bad ankle. Instead of missing the game Betts thrived as he carried the football 26 times for 114 yards and a touchdown run.

This was a driving force in the Redskins comeback win against the Broncos.

Look for Betts to continue to start for the Redskins as Clinton Portis will be out for at least a few more weeks with a concussion problem. Next week Betts and the Redskins will play the Cowboys, and he should be a decent play in that game.

Brandon Marshall Scores Twice

On Brandon Marshall’s first two receptions, he had two touchdowns and 115 yards receiving. Unfortunately, for the Broncos Marshall only totaled 19 yards the rest of the game.

It was nice to see the Broncos have a few plays down the field but at the end of the day they dropped their third game.

If they lose next week against the Chargers they will fall out of first place. This would be the second year in a row that the Broncos gave up an early lead in the standings to the Chargers later in the season.

Hopefully, the team will have quarterback Kyle Orton ready for this important game. Orton was seen leaving the stadium on crutches because of a bad ankle.

NFL Fantasy Football Player Rankings writer Sean E. Douglas: fantasy-info.com

As we move into week ten for the NFL football season there are still two teams that are undefeated and atop the NFL power rankings. Outside of the Colts and Saints fabulous starters we still have other teams like the Vikings, Patriots, Steelers and even Bengals that are closing in the rankings.

Below we have a short right up on the top ten teams on our power rankings for this season. These teams are important to know as they are playing well and should continue to help fantasy teams.

Furthermore, pay attention to the worst teams on the list as they are the teams you want to have your players going against down the stretch.

1. Saints (8-0)

Drew Brees and the Saints are still winning ball games but the last three weeks they’ve been close to losing.

Looking past this teams recent struggles it is easy to see they are vastly improved from last year. The big turnaround for this team is when they picked up defensive coordinator Greg Williams.

His impact on the defense has given them respectability on that side of the football. Not to mention fantasy football relevance.

2. Colts (8-0)

Peyton Manning and the Colts’ offense have slowed down in touchdown production the past two weeks. If they have any shot of staying undefeated this week against the Patriots, they will need to turn up the point scoring once again.

3. Vikings (7-1)

Brett Favre has made a major impact on this team as they now have balance on offense and as a team. With Favre at the helm forgotten receivers like Sidney Rice have come out of the wood work and become fantasy starting players.

As long as Favre continues to stay healthy this team will continue to roll and could be atop the NFL power rankings soon.

4. Patriots (6-2)

The Patriots’ offense has come on strong in the past three games and Tom Brady is looking better all the time. If the Colts continue their struggles in scoring offense than I fully expect the Patriots to win this weekend.

Going forward I wouldn’t be surprised if the Patriots’ defense gets stronger and the end up in the Super Bowl.

5. Steelers (6-2)

Sure the Bengals are 6 and 2 and have beaten the Steelers this year, but I’m still going with the champs. The Steelers proved on Monday night against the Broncos why they are still one of the best teams in football.

With the emergence of Rashard Mendenhall in the running game the Steelers can now lean on the running game when they need to. I expect them to win this weekend against the Bengals.

6. Bengals (6-2)

This season has been a pleasant surprise for the Bengals. With Cedric Benson doing his best Rudi Johnson impersonation and the defense emerging this team is ready for the playoffs.

Cincinnati has already beaten the Ravens twice this season and beat the Steelers. This week they play the Steelers in Pittsburgh, and I expect the Bengals to lose. If the Bengals do, in fact, win, they will be the clear favorite to win the AFC North.

7. Broncos (6-2)

The past two weeks have been tough for the once undefeated Denver Broncos. This weekend they should get healthy with a blowout win against the Redskins.

From a fantasy perspective, we need to see this team go down the field more often. Doing so with help fantasy football values of Kyle Orton, Brandon Marshall, Eddie Royal and Tony Scheffler.

8. Cowboys (6-2)

If the Cowboys can put two road wins together this weekend against the Packers I will truly believe in their turnaround. As it stands right now Dallas is the favorite to win the NFC East as they are in first place.

Miles Austin has made a major impact on this team and will be a top 15 fantasy receiver coming into next year.

9. Falcons (5-3)

Having the Falcons ranked this high is very debatable, but I just believe they are the more balanced team of all the 5 and 3 teams. With Matt Ryan’s steady play in the passing game and Michael Turner’s re-emergence, this team is rolling.

10. Cardinals (5-3)

I would have the Eagles above the Cardinals if they prove to me, they can win without the big play in the air. For a team like the Eagles to drop a game to the Raiders is just not worthy of being in the top ten teams right now.

While the Cardinals haven’t run the ball great they have proven they can win on the road this season. Because of their undefeated record on the road and solid run defense, I’m willing to give them a pass for their loss to the Panthers.

• 11. Eagles (5-3)
• 12. Chargers (5-3)
• 13. Texans (5-4)
• 14. Giants (5-4)
• 15. Ravens (4-4)
• 16. Jets ( 4-4)
• 17. Packers (4-4)
• 18. 49ers (3-5)
• 19. Dolphins (3-5)
• 20. Bears (4-4)
• 21. Jaguars (4-4)
• 22. Titans (2-6)
• 23. Seahawks (3-5)
• 24. Panthers (3-5)
• 25. Bills (3-5)
• 26. Raiders (2-6)
• 27. Chiefs (1-7)
• 28. Buccaneers (1-7)
• 29. Lions (1-7)
• 30. Redskins (2-6) Has this team given up?
• 31. Rams (1-7)
• 32. Browns (1-7)

NFL Fantasy Football Player Rankings writer Sean E. Douglas: fantasy-info.com

This game was a tale of two halves as the Broncos dominated the clock in the first half and then the Steelers dominated in the second. It seemed that the Broncos were going to give the Steelers defense all they could handle at the start of this game but it all turned around.

Rashard Mendenhall is Taking Over

This game is just another reason why Rashard Mendenhall is going to remain the starting running back in Pittsburgh. For the night Mendenhall slashed into the Broncos defense for 155 yards on 22 carries.

The Broncos were only giving up an average of 86 yards per game on the ground this season and Mendenhall almost doubled that total on his own.

What impresses me the most about Mendenhall is his ability to run the ball just as good in-between the tackles as he does running to the outside.

If Mendenhall continues to run the football like he has since taking over than he will be at least a second round pick in fantasy football drafts next year. Willie Parker is expected to leave the team after this season and that means he won’t be around as a threat to steal touches.

Even though Parker is still on the team and active right now you would have never known it in this game.

Consider Mendenhall a must start for the rest of the fantasy football season.

Ben Roethlisberger Leads His Team Back

Big Ben Roethlisberger almost gave the game away in the third quarter when he fumbled the football and Denver’s defense scored on the turnover.

After that play Roethlisberger had a flawless game as he charged his team down for three touchdown scores.

The Steelers are going to be a very hard team to face going forward as they now have balance on offense and still have a strong defense. Next week’s showdown with the Bengals should be a fun one to watch.

Brandon Marshall Hauls in Eleven Catches

The Broncos offensive attack was highlighted by Brandon Marshall as he had eleven receptions for 112 yards.

While this is a fine stat total and PPR fantasy owners with Marshall but I need to see more. Don’t get me wrong Marshall’s performance was solid, but I’m still not seeing this team trying to throw the football down the field.

Not only that but if I’m not mistaken the Broncos didn’t even get inside the red zone for the entire game.

If the Broncos are going to be a playoff team this year they need to do a better job against defensive teams.

NFL Fantasy Football Player Rankings writer Sean E. Douglas: fantasy-info.com