This up coming Sunday marks the final week of the regular season for many fantasy football leagues. For those of you that have Cedric Benson on your fantasy team it is time to get him in your starting roster.

For the past two weeks Benson has not played because of a hip problem that caused the team to sign Larry Johnson from free agency. Johnson, as we all know was shipped out of the Chiefs’ organization because of his disturbing comments on Twitter.

The Bengals gave Johnson a second chance and last week he ran for over 100 yards against the Browns. In that game Johnson didn’t start as Bernard Scott was Benson original backup and start both games in Benson’s absence.

During the game against the Browns, Scott suffered a turf toe injury and Johnson took over to finish the game.

Distribution of Carries

Head Coach Marvin Lewis made it known to everyone early this week that Benson would play this Sunday against the Lions and would start. Lewis and teammates cited that this team is Benson’s team and now that he is healthy it is his starting job to have back.

This only makes sense as Benson was having a Pro Bowl season before he was injured and has earned the job, without question.

Backing up Coach Lewis’s words, Benson practiced in full for every day of practice this week. This was the first time he had done so since before his injury week ten against the Steelers.

Now the only questions that remain are how much work will Benson get, and how much work will Johnson receive in fill in time?

Fantasy Football Outlook

Assuming Benson doesn’t suffer a setback, he should get most of the touches until the game is well in hand. Since the Bengals are playing the Lions this week I would expect them to have the game put away early in the fourth quarter.

Look for Johnson to pound out the final series or two of the game when the team has the win well in hand. Other than that Johnson will probably give Benson a breather here and there during the game.

I would expect Benson to have no less than 85 yards rushing and one touchdown in this easy rushing contest. Johnson could put up similar numbers as he will face the Lions’ defense at the end of the game when they are tired.

Benson is a must start for fantasy owners and Johnson makes for a sneaky flex option as well.

After this game, I don’t see Johnson as much of a fantasy option until they face the Chiefs week 16. Johnson has that game penciled in as a pay back game, and I’m sure Coach Lewis will give him at least twelve touches and a touchdown opportunity for his hard work.

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

With Cedric Benson down for another week and Marshawn Lynch banged up the door is open for production from backup running backs. At this time of year it is vitally important that you have your running game scoring well for you as you will need it to win a fantasy football championship.

While hot waiver pickups like Justin Forsett are probably long gone, you can still get players like Fred Jackson or Larry Johnson to help you out.

Below we have the top players you might want to pay attention to, for waiver pickups. Even if you don’t select a waiver (or have already done so) it’s good to keep these names in mind for the future weeks.

Quarterbacks

Dennis Dixon (Steelers)

The one time great quarterback for the Oregon Ducks received his first NFL start against the Ravens on Sunday night football. While this was not the ideal team to face on the road for your first real work as a quarterback Dennis Dixon did a good job.

Dixon threw a nice touchdown pass to Santonio Holmes and flashed his trademark running skills with a 24-yard scamper for a touchdown. If Ben Roethlisberger is out next week against the Raiders Dixon should put up decent stats in his absence.

Running Backs

Fred Jackson (Bills)

Marshawn Lynch’s backup Fred Jackson received a lot of play early in the year because of Lynch’s suspension for the first three games of the season. Now, Jackson is receiving the starter work load once again with new head coach Perry Fewell calling the shots.

Last week against the Dolphins, Jackson totaled over 110 total yards from scrimmage and two rushing touchdowns. This was a huge difference to his counterpart in Lynch whom received only four touches for 15 total yards.

Look for Jackson to continue as the starting tail back next week in a great matchup against the Jets.

Larry Johnson (Bengals)

If Cedric Benson can’t return from his hip injury next week against the Lions then expect Larry Johnson to have another solid game. Last week against the Browns, Johnson had 107 yards rushing on 22 carries.

Johnson should continue to be the top man for carries if Benson is out because he is a bigger runner than Bernard Scott. Look for Johnson to also be a threat to score from the goal line as well.

Wide Receivers

Mark Clayton (Ravens)

This is a desperate move, but if you’re in great need of a receiver for your fantasy football team you might want to give Mark Clayton a try. Clayton seems to start showing up in production around this time every year and last week he had a good performance.

Against the Steelers, Clayton had seven catches for 129 yards. Next week he will play the Packers, and they are without Al Harris. Look for Joe Flacco to go Clayton’s way a decent amount as Derrick Mason should be covered by Charles Woodson all game.

Jason Avant (Eagles)

If DeSean Jackson is out this week because of concussion issues than Eagles third receiver Jason Avant will start. Avant has had three solid weeks in a row and will get a decent amount of looks from Donovan McNabb.

Avant also has very good size and strength, this is an assest when you look at the other receivers around him that are skinny and undersized. Look for Avant to be a nice weapon for McNabb inside the red zone.

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

Injuries are starting to set in over the past few weeks and fantasy football owners are challenged to find key players to help them win games. Making that crucial start or waiver pickup can make the difference between not reaching the playoffs and winning a championship.

Not to toot my own horn, but I was reminded of this just this past week when I lost Cedric Benson and Michael Turner. I needed some running backs and picked up Justin Forsett and Bernard Scott.

At first I wanted to start Forsett over Scott but later realized that Scott was the better play for my private league because of his matchup. If I would have started Forsett, I would have tied in starter points against my opponent and lost on bench points. Starting Scott was the difference for victory.

Hopefully, your team won’t come down to decisions like that but every once in awhile your challenged with making those kinds of decisions. Thankfully, for my team that decision worked out.

Below we have our top border line players at different positions that are worth starting and worth sitting for the 12th week of the NFL fantasy football season.

Start’Em

Quarterbacks

• Donovan McNabb vs Redskins
• Brett Favre vs Bears
• Matt Ryan vs Buccaneers

Running Backs

• Jason Snelling vs Buccaneers (If Turner is Out)
• Justin Forsett @ Rams (If Jones is Out or Limited)
• Bernard Scott vs Browns (If Benson is Out)
• Jamaal Charles @ Chargers
• Steve Slaton vs Colts
• Laurence Maroney @ Saints
• Kevin Smith vs Packers
• Knowshon Moreno vs Giants(Fumbles are Concerning but keep starting him)

Wide Receivers

• Greg Jennings @ Lions
• Terrell Owens vs Dolphins
• Chris Chambers @ Chargers
• Devin Hester @ Vikings (Cutler still throws the ball his way a lot)
• Michael Crabtree vs Jaguars

Tight Ends

Start as you normally would

Kickers

• Billy Cundiff vs Steelers
• Rob Bironas vs Cardinals
• Nick Folk vs Raiders (If he doesn’t turn it around this week bench him)
• Niel Rackers @ Titans (If Warner is Out)
• Shayne Graham vs Browns
• Robbie Gould @ Vikings

Defense/ ST

• Eagles vs Redskins
• Cowboys vs Raiders

Sit’Em

Quarterbacks

• Jay Cutler @ Vikings
• Matthew Stafford vs Packers (Great Game Last Week but Don’t Start Yet)
• Ben Roethlisberger @ Ravens (May Not Play)
• Tony Romo vs Raiders (Where’s the Offense?)

Running Backs

• Shonne Greene vs Panthers (Needs More Touches)
• Tim Hightower @ Titans (Losing Goal Line TD’s to Wells)

Wide Receivers

• Malcom Floyd vs Chiefs (Naanee is better than Floyd)
• Eddie Royal vs Giants (Not Enough Looks)
• Pierre Garcon vs Texans (Needs More Catches)

Defenses/ ST

• Patriots @ Saints
• Saints vs Patriots
• Colts @ Texans
• Broncos vs Giants
• Titans vs Cardinals

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

This week the Cincinnati Bengals signed running back Larry Johnson to the team. This move has been made as a precaution in case Cedric Benson should have problems with his current hip injury.

The game plan right now is that the Bengals are hopeful Benson will be able to play this weekend against the Raiders. This very well may not happen, but it is fully expected that Benson will return next week against the Cleveland Browns.

If Benson should miss this week’s contest than expect the team to start rookie Bernard Scott and use Brian Lenard as a third down specialist.

The team may activate Johnson as the third running back if Benson does not start but his playing time will be limited.

Fantasy Game Plan

Expect Benson to be out this week as it would help him get his hip strong for the rest of the season. Next week is a more important game for the Bengals because the Browns are a division game.

For this coming week Scott makes for a good starter as the Raiders aren’t playing very good football. Scott has breakaway ability as we saw him score the only touchdown for either team last week on a 96-yard kickoff return.

Look for the Bengals to take Scott off of kick return duties if he should start at tailback.

Beyond that play, you might want to hang onto Scott if he runs effectively as he would be the starting tail back again if Benson should have a setback with his hip injury.

Larry Johnson’s Fantasy Value

Johnson may be a factor once we get into December but for the next few week’s, he probably won’t be a factor.

If Benson should have continued problem’s then look for Johnson to be active on game day’s for the Bengals. Beyond that I believe Scott will have to run ineffectively for Johnson to become a solid option in the running game.

It is possible you could see him become the goal line back as Scott is a little undersized. Other than that Johnson will be a non factor the rest of the way.

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

This past week should have been titled, “Black Sunday” because there were a tone of injuries around the league. If you happened to lose a key running back like Ronnie Brown, Michael Turner or Cedric Benson you are no doubt scrambling to the waiver wire.

Below we have the top players you might want to pay attention to, for waiver pickups. Even if you don’t select a waiver (or have already done so) it’s good to keep these names in mind for the future weeks.

Running Backs

Seahawks- Justin Forsett

Justin Forsett finally got his chance to be the starting running back when Julius Jones went down early in the Seahawks contest against the Cardinals. Forsett broke out and rushed for 123 yards and a touchdown.

Not only did Forsett do a good job in the running game, but he flashed his receiving skills with five receptions for 26 yards.

Since Jones broke his ribs it is highly unlikely that he will play this coming weekend against the Vikings. Unfortunately, this matchup isn’t a great one but Forsett is worth holding onto for the future.

Falcons- Jason Snelling

The Falcons will have to lean on running back Jason Snelling this coming weekend against the New York Giants. Michael Turner has a high ankle sprain and should be out for at least one game.

Look for Snelling to get the vast majority of the carries in the backfield and the goal line carries.

Bengals- Bernard Scott

The Bengals and Cedric Benson both say that Benson will be able to play this weekend against the Raiders. Benson suffered a hip injury against the Steelers and it was thought he might miss time because of the injury.

Look for the Bengals to rest Benson, and we will find out more on his true availability on Friday.

If Benson can’t play than expect the Bengals to lean on rookie running back Bernard Scott.

Wide Receivers

Cowboys- Roy Williams

Many fantasy football owners cut bait on Roy Williams weeks ago but in the past few weeks Williams has started to show life. This past week against the Packers, Williams had five receptions for 105 yards and a touchdown.

Now that Miles Austin is starting to see more attention from opposing defenses it is leaving Williams open on single coverage.

If Williams can stay focused and stop blaming others for his faults than maybe he can be a good receiver for your fantasy football team going forward.

Kickers

Titans- Rob Bironas

If someone in your league happened to give up on Rob Bironas early in the season it would be a good idea to get him now. Bironas struggled for production early on because his team had a horrible start.

Now, the Titans have clearly pulled it together and are starting to play good football again. Look for Bironas to have a solid second half of the fantasy season.

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

The Bengals beat the Steelers this week, and now they have a commanding lead in the AFC North. If Cincinnati can beat the Browns in two weeks from now they will have swept their division for the season.

The Bengals are 7 and 2

This wasn’t a pretty win for the Bengals, but they got it none the less.

Cedric Benson left the game in the first half with a hip injury and played only one more play in the game. On that play Benson took a carry to the outside and had a very noticeable limp when going around the edge.

After the game Benson said he will rest on the injury and is hopeful he can play this coming weekend against the Raiders.

If he is out (don’t be surprised if he is) than the Bengals will lean on rookie running back Bernard Scott to carry the load.

Steelers Offense Shut Down

The Steelers offense is having a very solid season but this game was not theirs. The Bengals defense allowed them to move the football but put the clamps on them inside the red zone.

This great effort on defense forced the Steelers to settle for field goals and that cost them the game.

Look for this offense to have a big performace next week against the Kansas City Chiefs.

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