I almost went 11-2 last week but instead of my prediction of Dallas beating Detroit 31-30; it was the other way around. Still, 10-3 is not bad and brings my season record to 77-43. With only 9 weeks left in the regular season I'll need to get 11-12 right on average to get the annual goal of 180 correct. That's not an easy average to attain, but it's also not impossible. Let's see if I help, or hurt, the cause this week.

 

Here are my Week 9 NFL Game Predictions:

 

Cincinnati 28, Miami 20

Carolina 24, Atlanta 17

Kansas City 23, Buffalo 16

Dallas 35, Minnesota 21

New Orleans 27, NY Jets 23

San Diego 30, Washington 24

St. Louis 23, Tennessee 21

Oakland 26, Philadelphia 23

Seattle 34, Tampa Bay 17

Baltimore 20, Cleveland 17

New England 27, Pittsburgh 20

Indianapolis 24, Houston 20

Green Bay 31, Chicago 21

 

There you have them: my week 9 NFL game picks.

 

San Francisco clobbered Jacksonville (42-10) even worse than I had predicted (38-10) to nail the lock in week 8. That brings me to 6-2 in the Survivor Pool Locks for the season. Here are the picks from the prior weeks and the results:

 

Week 1 (W; 21-17) Indianapolis over Oakland

Week 2 (L; 30-33) Philadelphia over San Diego

Week 3 (W; 45-17) Seattle over Jacksonville

Week 4 (W; 52-20) Denver over Philadelphia

Week 5 (W; 34-20) St. Louis over Jacksonville

Week 6 (W; 24-7) Kansas City over Oakland

Week 7 (L; 27-30) New England over NY Jets

Week 8 (W; 42-10) San Francisco over Jacksonville

 

Jacksonville is on bye this week so I don't have the luxury of taking their opponent in week 9. But there's still a great pick for this week that I see. Only problem is that in prior years when I've taken this team, it's either been a loss, or the game has been a lot closer than I thought it would be. I hope that won't be the case again this season. I don't anticipate it will be as the opponent this season is a mess at QB and has been a mess more often than not on defense having allowed their opponents to score 31 points or more in 5 of 7 games. As long as Tony Romo doesn't turn the ball over late and the defense can get pressure on whoever starts at QB for the Vikings this week, this game shouldn't really be close.

 

My Survivor Pool Lock for Week 9 is: the Dallas Cowboys over the Minnesota Vikings.

 

Best of luck to all in your own picks this week!

 

Fantasy News and Notes 10-30-13:

 

BYE WEEKS: Arizona, Denver, Detroit, Jacksonville, NY Giants, San Francisco

 

Quarterbacks

 

Nick Foles has passed all of his concussion tests and will start week 9 for Philadelphia. Michael Vick is OUT with a hamstring injury and probably will miss a couple of weeks.  

 

As expected, Robert Griffin III was able to practice today. He'll be fine for week 9 despite having had a minor knee scare in week 8.

 

Buffalo's Thaddeus Lewis missed practice today because of a ribs injury he suffered in week 8. Lewis is uncertain to be able to play week 9. Jeff Tuel and Matt Flynn split up first team reps today and it's believed that Tuel would start if Lewis can't go. At least Buffalo got some good news. E.J. Manuel took part in some drills today. That's the first time he has practiced since suffering his knee injury a few weeks ago. Manuel is not expected to return to game action though until either week 11 or week 13. Buffalo has the bye in week 12.

 

No update yet on who the Vikings are going to start this week. It may be Christian Ponder; it may be Josh Freeman. No matter who it is, they're likely to stink and you shouldn't be considering him.

 

 

Running Backs

 

Arian Foster was listed as practicing in limited fashion today despite his hamstring injury. It's too early to tell if he'll be able to play through it or not week 9. Teammate Ben Tate was also able to practice and if Foster doesn't play, Tate likely will start in his place. Tate has cracked ribs, but would wear extra padding and possibly a vest to help protect the ribs. That said, I'd also expect he would be limited and share time with Ray Graham and Deji Karim.

 

Zac Stacy was listed as limited in practice today, but reports say he was very limited in what he could do because of his ankle injury. His status for week 9 is very uncertain. Those with the luxury of having the bench space can consider acquiring Daryl Richardson for the insurance as Richardson will start if Stacy can't play.

 

As expected, Jamaal Charles sat out practice today to rest up the minor knee injury he sustained week 8. Charles is expected to be return to practice no later than Friday and be fine for week 9.

 

Marshawn Lynch sat out practice today with a listed knee issue. Lynch is expected to be fine for week 9 though and this was probably just a day of rest.

 

C.J. Spiller was able to practice in limited fashion today. Spiller didn't practice at all last week and sat out week 8 with his ankle injury so this is a positive sign, but I'm still dubious about his chances of playing this week. I think it would do both Spiller and the Bills a lot more good if they allowed him to get healthy as he has been clearly hobbled by it in games. Fred Jackson didn't practice today, but it's believed to be just a day for him to rest up the knee injury he's been playing through. Jackson is still expected to start and be okay for week 9.  

 

DeAngelo Williams was held out of practice today. DW suffered a quad injury week 8 and while it's not thought to be serious, if he doesn't practice by Friday, I'll be concerned about him potentially missing this week. On the good news front for the Panthers, Jonathan Stewart took part in practice again today and he has said he expects to be ready to play this Sunday. Barring any setbacks, Carolina likely will activate him from the PUP list by Friday afternoon. It's likely he'll be limited some in his first game action and as long as Williams isn't more hurt than currently believed Stewart has little fantasy value right away. We could see a lot more of Mike Tolbert this week than Stewart if Williams can't play.

 

DeMarco Murray put in a full practice today and it's looking likely he will be okay for week 9. It's a great matchup for him and if he's really close to 100% he could have a big game. His expected return pushes Joseph Randle back to the bench.

 

Steven Jackson isn't on the Falcons practice report injury lists and hopefully this is a sign he's over his hamstring and quad injuries and will perform better than he did in week 8.

 

Mark Ingram practiced in full today. He could be soon to returning for the Saints. All his return would really do is tempt fantasy owners into making a bad decision and start him. I have little hope of him having any fantasy impact.

 

 

Wide Receivers

 

Cincinnati's Mohamed Sanu is Questionable for tomorrow night's game. Sanu has been bypassed by Marvin Jones in fantasy importance on the Bengals and probably wasn't in your plans to begin with.

 

Roddy White didn't practice today and while there's still two more days of practice this week, I would expect that if White was close to getting back on the field he'd be practicing all 3 days of the week. I am not expecting White to play week 9.

 

Percy Harvin didn't practice today. It was reported that he suffered a setback in his recovery from his hip surgery last week and it's likely that the Seahawks are going to be very careful with him. It's sounding very iffy he'll be able to play this week and a week 10 return seems a little more likely. Jermaine Kearse probably will start for Seattle this week in place of Sidney Rice.

 

Steve Johnson sat out practice today with a hip issue. He's fully expected to practice tomorrow and be fine for week 9.

 

Greg Jennings sat out practice today with a knee injury. It's believed to be minor though and Jennings should be okay for week 9.

 

Marques Colston sat out practice today with a knee injury. It's not believed to be serious and he should be okay for week 9. Teammate Kenny Stills was limited with a knee issue as well and he too is expected to be fine.

 

Eddie Royal sat out practice today with a toe injury. Royal missed practices last week because of the injury but was still able to play week 8 and be fine. I expect he'll do so again this week.

 

 

Tight Ends

 

Jimmy Graham was limited in practice but after he got through week 8 without aggravating his foot injury, I would expect he'll be okay for this week

 

Jeff Cumberland is now considered to be Questionable for week 9 because of the concussion he suffered week 8. 

 

Rob Gronkowski was limited in today's practice. Normally I wouldn't bother mentioning this now that he's returned to action but the Patriots have added a hamstring to the list of ailments Gronk supposedly has. I'm sure finger and runny nose are going to be listed in coming weeks. 

Fantasy News and Notes 10-29-13:

 

BYE WEEKS: Arizona, Denver, Detroit, Jacksonville, NY Giants, San Francisco

 

Quarterbacks

 

Michael Vick aggravated his hamstring injury early in week 8 and he's out for week 9. Thankfully, Nick Foles has been cleared to return to practices after sitting out week 8 with a concussion so we won't have to see any more of Matt Barkley barring a Foles setback.

 

Robert Griffin III is expected to be okay for this week. RG3 suffered a minor knee injury and while he came out of the game, the Redskins say it was because the game was out of hand and there was no reason to risk him to further injury. He may be limited some in practices this week, but barring unexpected bad news, RG3 will start week 9.

 

Cleveland will start Jason Campbell again week 9 after he was better than expected week 8. It's likely a permanent move as the team has given every indication that they don't want Brandon Weeden as their starting QB

 

Houston is going to start Case Keenum this week despite Matt Schaub being recovered enough from a foot injury to play. Keenum did well in his one game so far and the team wants to see if he can do it again. Schaub, while recovered enough from his foot injury to play, would be limited in his mobility because of it if he were to get back into game action.

 

Minnesota is mulling their options for a week 9 starter at QB. Christian Ponder blew a golden opportunity to reclaim the job with a horrible week 8 performance. Josh Freeman is uncertain to be cleared from his concussion and even if he is he may not be any better than he was in week 7 when he stank. Matt Cassel supposedly isn't in the conversation. My guess would be Ponder, but it's really uncertain who they will pick.

 

Remember, Josh McCown starts for Chicago this week, and probably the two games after that as well. Jay Cutler is hopeful to return sooner than week 12 from his groin tear, but players are always more hopeful than realistic.

 

 

Running Backs

 

The ankle injury suffered by the Rams Zac Stacy is reportedly not a high ankle sprain. That's the good news. The bad news is that we have no idea if Stacy will be able to play week 9 or not. Hopefully we get an update tomorrow as Stacy was tearing through Seattle's defense last night and looking very much the part of a featured RB before the injury. If he isn't able to play, Daryl Richardson would start in his place.

 

Jamaal Charles is expected to be fine despite having suffered a minor knee injury week 8. Charles was able to finish out the game and should be fine for week 9.

 

It's uncertain whether Houston will have either of Arian Foster or Ben Tate this week. Foster is nursing a hamstring injury while Tate has cracked ribs. Both players have said they want to play, but neither is a sure thing. Houston called up practice squad RB Ray Graham, and also added Deji Karim and Dennis Johnson to add depth in case neither Foster nor Tate is able to play. Graham most likely would be the primary but that's just a guess.

 

Also uncertain for week 9 is Buffalo's C.J. Spiller. Spiller was held out of week 8 to rest a lingering ankle injury and I wouldn't be surprised if the Bills decided to do it again this week. Fred Jackson should be the lead RB again.

 

Baltimore signed Bernard Scott Monday. The Ravens only had Ray Rice and Bernard Pierce on their roster at the position and Pierce has a hamstring injury that has his status for week 9 uncertain.

 

No official word yet on whether DeMarco Murray will be able to play week 9 or not. Murray sat out week 8 with his knee sprain despite getting in limited practices all last week. If Murray can return, he'll push Joseph Randle back to just being a backup.

 

 

Wide Receivers

 

Sidney Rice suffered a torn ACL in last night's game and his season is done. Percy Harvin is tentatively expected to return from the PUP list this week and probably would step right into the starting lineup opposite Golden Tate. If Harvin isn't quite ready to return yet, Doug Baldwin and Jermaine Kearse would see increased playing time. We should know more later in the week.

 

Tampa Bay placed Mike Williams on injured reserve because of a hamstring injury. Tiquan Underwood takes over as the starter opposite Vincent Jackson. Underwood is an underwhelming talent, but he is a name to keep an eye on in case he surprises.

 

Miami placed Brandon Gibson on injured reserve today. Gibson tore the patellar tendon in his left knee Sunday. Rishard Matthews takes over as Miami's #3 WR but I doubt if you'll get as good production out of him as you were surprisingly getting from Gibson.

 

Completing the IR trifecta is Detroit's Ryan Broyles. Broyles tore his Achilles tendon Sunday and he is done for the year. Broyles has a long list of serious injuries dating back to college and I wouldn't be surprised if he never plays a down again in the NFL. The Lions are tentatively expecting to get Nate Burleson back when they return from their bye and if so, he probably steps right back in as a starter with Kris Durham moving to the #3 WR role.  

 

It's uncertain again this week if James Jones will be able to play week 9 or not. Jones has missed the last 2 games with his knee injury. It was originally speculated to be a 2-3 week injury so there is a chance he comes back. But there's also the chance he doesn't.

 

There's been no word on whether Atlanta's Roddy White is close to returning or not. White's missed the last 2 games because of ankle and hamstring injuries. Unless he practices I don't expect him to play.

 

Cleveland WR/KR Travis Benjamin tore his ACL this past Sunday and he is done for the year. I mention him for those of you who pay in leagues where special teams yardage gets counted as I doubt anyone else would have him on a roster.

 

Tight Ends

 

Jimmy Graham was able to play week 8 despite his partially torn plantar fascia injury. While Graham was used sparingly, his usage was very strategic and he remains a prime TD scorer even if his yardage numbers take a hit. Expect that to be the way the Saints use him going forward. His limited usage though drops him from the "must start" category to the "strong starting consideration" list.

 

Denver's Julius Thomas will use the bye this week to rest an ankle injury suffered week 8. Reports are that it isn't a high ankle sprain and it's hoped he'll be fine for week 10 when Denver returns.

 

Jeff Cumberland suffered a concussion week 8. The Jets say it's a mild concussion and tentatively, he is expected to be okay for week 9.

 

Washington made Fred Davis a healthy inactive for a second game in a row week 8. With the trade deadline having come and gone and Davis not having been traded, it's time to give up on him. It would take a Jordan Reed injury for Davis to get back into game action.

 

2013 Rushing Fantasy Points Allowed Per Game

 

Thru Week 8

 

 

Remember the generic formula:
 
*-Total Yards allowed divided by 10 (representing 1 point for every 10 rushing yards allowed)

*-Rushing TD's allowed multiplied by 6 (representing 6 points for every TD allowed)

*-Add the two totals together and divide by number of games played

 

2013 Receiving Fantasy Points Allowed Per Game

 

Thru Week 8

 

 

Remember the generic formula:

*-Total Yards allowed divided by 10 (representing 1 point for every 10 receiving yards allowed)

*-Receiving TD's allowed multiplied by 6 (representing 6 points for every TD allowed)

*-Add the two totals together and divide by number of games played

 

AFC EAST

 

Buffalo: C.J. Spiller is Doubtful and won't play because of his ankle injury. This is actually a good thing for Spiller as he has clearly been affected by it while trying to play through it the last few weeks and resting in practices all week and not playing will only help it heal up. Fred Jackson, while Probable and not completely over his own knee issues, will be the primary RB and we'll likely see enough of Tashard Choice for him to be a fantasy RB3 or flex consideration. QB Thaddeus Lewis gets the start again with E.J. Manuel still OUT with a knee injury. WR Steve Johnson is not on the injury report at all and it's hoped his back injury is behind him now.

 

Miami: Brandon Gibson is Probable and will be fine despite having some minor issues with a shoulder injury. The split between RB's Lamar Miller and Daniel Thomas has gotten so unpredictable on a week to week basis that it is a risk to trust either for fantasy purposes. Miller continues to be thought of having the higher upside but sooner or later we're going to need see consistent production on the field or he's just going to be another unfulfilled fantasy promise. QB Ryan Tannehill's shoulder injury is minor and he is Probable. It remains to be seen if recently acquired LT Bryant McKinnie will provide any better protection for Tannehill (the league's most sacked QB) than what he's had so far.

 

New England: WR Danny Amendola reportedly has passed all of his concussion tests and while listed as Questionable, is tentatively expected to play week 8. Teammate Julian Edelman will play without issue despite also being listed as Questionable with a thigh injury. Edelman's played through this injury the last few weeks. RB Brandon Bolden will also be fine despite again being ridiculously listed as Questionable with the preseason knee injury he's played through since week 2. TE Rob Gronkowski is listed as Probable and should be expected to resume being a top 2 fantasy TE. QB Tom Brady was added to the injury report as Probable with a shoulder issue. If you remember correctly, Brady spent nearly 2 years as a regular on the injury report as Probable with a shoulder issue and never missed a game.

 

New York Jets: It's unknown if last week was an indication that Chris Ivory has supplanted Bilal Powell as the Jets top RB or if it was just a case of riding a hot hand. Personally, I think Ivory will be the top RB again with Powell working in as the change of pace and 3rd down RB. Santonio Holmes remains out with a hamstring injury leaving the top WR duties to Stephen Hill, Jeremy Kerley, and David Nelson. Kerley is the only legitimate WR consideration and even then only as a borderline WR3/4. TE Jeff Cumberland is Probable despite being limited some by a hamstring injury. He's a low end fantasy TE2.

 

AFC NORTH

 

Baltimore: Hopefully the bye week will allow the Ravens enough time to figure out what they need to do to get Ray Rice back to being a productive RB. Rice has been killing fantasy teams and the Ravens offensive line woes can only be blamed so much.

 

Cincinnati: WR Marvin Jones has been performing well of late and is worth considering for acquisition if your WR options are weak. Jones is Probable for week 8 despite a shoulder injury. He's pushing Mohamed Sanu to the side in order of fantasy importance opposite A.J. Green. While Tyler Eifert finally got in the end zone last week, the split between him and Jermaine Gresham still exists and still makes Eifert untrustworthy as a fantasy consideration.

 

Cleveland: With Brandon Weeden benched for ineffectiveness, Jason Campbell starts at QB. After failing to capitalize on previous opportunities to prove himself an effective starting QB this is likely to be his last chance in his career. Campbell could go either way: prove solid enough to continue starting or be miserable enough for the Browns to go back to Weeden. Given the uncertainty at QB and the matchup against a strong Chiefs defense, Josh Gordon falls from the ranks of being a fantasy WR 1/2 to being a WR2/3 and Jordan Cameron falls to a low end fantasy TE1.  

 

Pittsburgh: WR Antonio Brown is due for a big game and it likely comes this week against Oakland. TE Heath Miller has been producing well, but big games are going to elude him. Starting WR Emmanuel Sanders was again out-produced by 3rd WR Jerricho Cotchery last week. That's becoming a regular occurrence. Sanders has been proving to be incapable of handling a prominent offensive role and is running out of chances. If rookie Markus Wheaton can get over his broken finger injury he could push Sanders for that starting role.

 

AFC SOUTH

 

Houston: IT's hoped that the bye this week will allow Arian Foster enough time to get a hamstring injury healed up to where he can play week 9. If not, it's unknown if Ben Tate will be able to play or not. Tate played through 4 cracked ribs week 7 and his status going forward is undetermined. With Cierre Wood having been cut for allegedly smoking marijuana at the team's Kansas City hotel in week 7, the only other RB the Texans have on the roster currently is FB Greg Jones. Otherwise they have Ray Graham on the practice squad. It's likely they will sign one this week to provide depth. At QB, it's unknown if Matt Schaub will be healed up enough to be the starting QB or not week 9. I won't be surprised if after Case Keenum handled himself well last week that the Texans use the ankle injury Schaub has an excuse to give Keenum a second start to see if he can be good a second time. They certainly have little to lose.

 

Indianapolis: With Reggie Wayne's season (and quite possibly, career) over because of a torn ACL, the Colts will roll with T.Y. Hilton and Darrius Heyward-Bey as their starting WR's. LaVon Brazill and David Reed will likely vie for the #3 WR spot and the Colts will likely promote either Da'Rick Rogers or Griff Whalen from the practice squad to give them depth.

 

Jacksonville: Even though Blaine Gabbert is healthy enough to start the Jags are sticking with Chad Henne as the starter week 8. Neither QB is good though and their only purpose is to make sure both WR's Justin Blackmon (Probable; hamstring) and Cecil Shorts (Probable; shoulder/clavicle) retain fantasy value. Both Blackmon and Shorts are battling through their injuries and are the only players worth considering again from this team. RB Maurice Jones-Drew is barely worthy of being a fantasy RB3.  

 

Tennessee: Jake Locker made it through week 7 without any aggravation of his hip and knee injuries and should be okay going forward. With the trading deadline approaching, it's a little surprising the Titans aren't even getting a conditional 7th round pick for WR Kenny Britt. There's still time for a deal to get done, but it's running out.

 

AFC WEST

 

Denver: Peyton Manning's ankle injury is very minor and he is Probable and will play without issue. Also Probable and playing without issue are WR's Eric Decker (toe) and Wes Welker (ankle). Ronnie Hillman is expected to be made inactive week 8 and possibly the rest of the season after he lost a costly 4th quarter at the 2 yard line week 7. His demotion should mean that Montee Ball finally gets a chance to touch the football 7-12 times per game behind starter Knowshon Moreno. Moreno is locked in as a fantasy RB1 while Ball is a low end RB3 with upside.

 

Kansas City: WR Dwayne Bowe is Questionable and will be a game time decision because of a groin injury suffered in Thursday's practice. Tentatively he is expected to play but shouldn't be near any fantasy starting lineups. Dexter McCluster and Junior Hemingway would pick up the slack if Bowe doesn't play. Even though it's not a bad matchup this week, the only Chiefs really worth considering for fantasy are RB Jamaal Charles and the Chiefs defense.

 

Oakland: Darren McFadden isn't on the injury report at all and hopefully this means the bye was enough time for him to get completely over the hamstring he suffered back a few weeks ago. If McFadden is finally healthy, and can stay that way, fantasy owners will be rewarded for their patience. But that's a pretty big "if" to believe in.

 

San Diego: It's expected that the bye will give rookie WR Keenan Allen enough time to get a minor shoulder injury suffered week 7 healed. Allen as emerged as the Chargers top WR in 2013. We'll revisit the Chargers next week as they entered the bye with few issues beyond Ale's minor shoulder injury.

 

NFC EAST

 

Dallas: RB DeMarco Murray is expected to play despite being listed as Questionable with a knee injury that caused him to miss week 7. Murray won't be 100% though and we could see him split more time with rookie Joseph Randle. Murray is still the better fantasy play though as a low end RB2. WR Miles Austin is Questionable and considered a game time decision. It was said earlier in the week that the Cowboys were considering shutting Austin down for a week or two to allow his lingering hamstring injury to heal up, but then they allowed him to practice in limited fashion each day this week. That's not "shutting him down" and it's not resting him the way he needs to be. Austin didn't notch a single reception in either of the last 2 games playing through the injury and has clearly been hobbled with it. Rookie Terrence Williams has been impressive and likely will supplant Austin as a starter in 2 WR sets very soon while Cole Beasley has done very well as the #3 WR. Simply put: Austin's been a liability and the sooner the Cowboys recognize it, the better off they'll be. Resting him now so he's healthy for the last stage of the season just makes way too much sense for them to not see it sooner or later.  

 

New York Giants: Peyton Hillis is expected to start at RB and be the lead over rookie Michael Cox again this week with Brandon Jacobs Doubtful with a hamstring injury. Hillis actually makes a low end fantasy RB2 or high end RB3 with a good matchup and so many teams having health issues at the position or being on bye. The Giants are on bye week 9 and Andre Brown stands a good chance of returning from the IR/Designated for return in week 10 so Jacobs has little chance of having future fantasy value and Hillis likely only has this one last week of it. Still no word on when David Wilson will return from his neck injury but it shouldn't be too much longer. WR Hakeem Nicks is starting to wear out my patience. His constant dropping of catchable passes is maddening and even in a plus matchup like this week against the Eagles I consider him as no more than an upside WR3. Reuben Randle has been outplaying Nicks most weeks and likely will do so again this week.

 

Philadelphia: Michael Vick returns as the starting QB. Even if Nick Foles didn't suffer a concussion I doubt he would have been starting this week after looking awful last week. Matt Barkley took over after Foles suffered the injury last week and was even worse. Vick's hamstring isn't completely healed up so he may not run as much as he normally would, but he still makes a strong play with a matchup against the Giants. LeSean McCoy hasn't produced great numbers the last few games but should find it a lot easier to have quality numbers this week. WR DeSean Jackson suffered a foot injury last week but it must have been very minor as he was never even listed on the practice report injury lists this week.

 

Washington: TE Fred Davis was a healthy inactive last week and rookie TE Jordan Reed had a career game so it won't be a surprise if Davis is inactive going forward. The Redskins should really try trading Davis if they aren't going to use him. Reed projects forward as a middle/low end fantasy TE1 most weeks. WR Leonard Hankerson is expected to play despite being listed as Questionable with a foot injury. He, Josh Morgan, and Aldrick Robinson all seem to be taking turns as being relevant opposite Pierre Garcon making none of them trustworthy. RG3 finally seemed to have the shackles removed from him using his legs last week and he responded with a great game. RG3 may finally be back to being a middle to high end fantasy QB1 the rest of the season if he can stay healthy. Those expecting RB Roy Helu to have big games consistently are fooling themselves. Helu is a fine addition as insurance for Alfred Morris or as a desperation play, but to chase his 3 TD performance last week as being an indication he is going to produce regularly going forward is going to lose people fantasy games.  

 

NFC NORTH

 

Chicago: With Jay Cutler not expected to return until week 12 at the earliest because of a torn groin, the Bears are sure to use the bye week to get in as much time with Josh McCown as possible so he is ready to hit the ground running in week 9. McCown is not a special talent but he's in a QB friendly offensive system and is an adequate QB with plenty of starting experience. While there may be a drop in fantasy outlooks for Bears pass catchers, I wouldn't downgrade them that much.

 

Detroit: Reggie Bush is Probable and will be fine despite sitting out Friday's practice to rest a sore knee. Bush is a top 10 fantasy RB play this week. Calvin Johnson is also Probable and will be fine despite his own lingering knee issues. Last week's 155 yards and 2 TD's proved why you never sit Megatron even though he may have some minor issues. TE Brandon Pettigrew is Probable despite having a hamstring issue. But between that and the Lions having released TE Tony Scheffler, it may be that we finally see more of undrafted rookie TE Joseph Fauria getting increased playing time. Fauria is definitely worth a speculative grab at the position for those who have a mediocre starter.

 

Green Bay: WR James Jones is Doubtful and not going to play. Jarrett Boykin starts in his place and makes for a solid fantasy WR2. TE Jermichael Finley suffered a bruised spinal cord injury and he is out indefinitely. He may not play again in 2013 as it was a scary injury. Andrew Quarless will be the "starting" TE but he is a better blocker than receiver. Brandon Bostick likely will be used as the receiving TE and while unproven, there could be some upside there for those who lack quality TE options. Just as likely to bust as boom, but what do you have to lose if you don't have anything special currently on your roster? RB James Starks practiced in full al week and returns as Eddie Lacy's top backup and handcuff. This pushes Johnathan Franklin down to being a special teams player.

 

Minnesota: RB Adrian Peterson is Probable despite a lingering hamstring injury. He's fine to consider as you always do. Josh Freeman is OUT with a concussion that must have happened Tuesday after he watched tape of himself throwing the ball last Monday night. I felt woozy and dazed after watching that game myself. The concussion is a convenient excuse to make sure he sits until he gets to know the playbook better. Christian Ponder returns to the starting lineup with Matt Cassel as his backup, at least week 8 and I would guess week 9 as well. It's Ponder's last chance to reclaim the job and if he fails, he'll likely be benched the rest of the year. K Blair Walsh is Probable and will kick despite having a hamstring issue on his non-kicking leg. It prevented the Vikings from trying a long FG last week and since one of the things that make Walsh an attractive fantasy kicker is his range, you may find better options on the free agent wire.

 

NFC SOUTH

 

Atlanta: RB Steven Jackson is Probable and returns as the starting RB despite not being fully over a hamstring injury that has kept him out since week 2. Jackson will handle most running down duties and some passing down duties with Jacquizz as his top backup and change of pace. RB Jason Snelling is OUT with an ankle injury. WR Roddy White is also OUT with his hamstring and ankle injuries. Drew Davis will start opposite Harry Douglas. Expect a solid game from TE Tony Gonzalez this week. The Cardinals have been the worst team covering opposing TE's.

 

Carolina: The team has 3 weeks to determine whether to activate RB Jonathan Stewart to the active roster or place him on injured reserve. It's believed they will activate him possibly in time for him to be available for week 9. Stewart has been bothered by issues in his recovery from offseason surgeries to both of his ankles. One of the ankles healed up fine; the other hasn't. It's believed once he's activated, he'll be worked in slowly as the #3 RB behind DeAngelo Williams and Mike Tolbert.

 

New Orleans: TE Jimmy Graham is Questionable and considered a game time decision because of his foot injury. Graham was able to put in a limited practice on Friday after sitting out Wednesday and Thursday so there is some hope he'll be active. But it's also possible that even if active he will be limited in game action. If you have another high quality TE option available, you may want to consider sitting Graham even if he plays. Ben Watson would start if Graham is made inactive. RB Mark Ingram also finally got in a limited practice Friday and this was his first practice in several weeks because of a toe injury. Ingram wasn't producing when he was healthy so even if active, I don't expect a gimpy Ingram to be much a fantasy consideration. Khiry Robinson is likely to be the sledgehammer RB behind both Darren Sproles and Pierre Thomas. Sproles and Thomas are both likely to be risky, but potentially high end fantasy RB2's. WR Lance Moore is Probable after having missed the last several games with a hand injury. Moore needs to show something on the field though before he can be thought of as a potential fantasy consideration as he was doing nothing before getting injured. Graham's injury quite possibly means a strong possibility for a big game by WR Marques Colston.

 

Tampa Bay: The Bucs plan on resting RB Doug Martin the next couple of weeks to see if he can strengthen the shoulder injury enough for him to be able to play. It's a dumb idea as he needs surgery and with a 6 month recovery time for surgery to repair a torn labrum the sooner he has it, the sooner he's back for OTA's next season and a full go by training camp. This waiting is just Greg Schiano's last gasp effort to try to get Martin back and save his job. Mike James was okay Thursday night but was exactly what I thought: nothing special. WR Mike Williams is feared to have a torn hamstring and his season could be in serious doubt. His loss would just mean Vincent Jackson and TE Anthony Wright become even bigger target monsters. Potential Williams replacements would be Tiquan Underwood and Chris Owusu. Neither would be good fantasy bets.

 

NFC WEST

 

Arizona: With Rashard Mendenhall Doubtful with a toe injury, Andre Ellington is expected to be the lead RB for the Cardinals. Ellington makes a low end RB2 for fantasy this week. Alfonso Smith and Stepfan Taylor are expected to get mixed in at RB as well, but neither is much of a fantasy consideration. It's possible Ryan Williams will be active for the first time this season but whether he'll see the field is uncertain. Larry Fitzgerald is Probable despite still being bothered some by his lingering hamstring injury. While Cardinals coach Bruce Arians denies it, it's believed that if Carson Palmer has another poor game this week against a soft Falcons pass defense, we could see a change at QB and Drew Stanton could get a start in week 10. Arizona has the bye in week 9.

 

St. Louis: The loss of Sam Bradford to a torn ACL last week leaves the Rams with Kellen Clemens at QB. Clemens knows the offense well but he is a mediocre NFL talent and his presence won't help anyone. It's hoped that the Rams will rely even more heavily on impressive rookie RB Zac Stacy. I am so glad to be proven right about Stacy since I have been clamoring for him since the team drafted him. Stacy is about the only Rams player I would want in a starting fantasy lineup this week going against Seattle. There's no way to trust anyone else until we see how Clemens does.

 

San Francisco: Frank Gore (Probable; ankle) should be a top 5 fantasy RB this week against Jacksonville. WR Quinton Patton remains out with a foot injury and WR Jon Baldwin is Questionable with an illness. The WR situation is getting so bad that the return of Mario Manningham in a couple of games from the PUP list is being looked forward to as a potential saving for the 49ers struggling passing game. It's really been a shame the 49ers haven't been more involved in trying to acquire a WR via trade as it's the only thing missing from their offense.

 

Seattle: Percy Harvin has been ruled OUT for Monday night so speculation about him coming back this week can be put to rest. But it's very possible he'll be active week 9 after he practiced this past week. Seattle's just being smart with Harvin as it's much more important he get close to 100% and be there for their playoffs run than it is for him to hurry back and have a higher risk of aggravation of his hip injury. His likely return in the week or two will likely bring Golden Tate's shaky fantasy value to an end. Tate just didn't live up to expectations despite opportunities. Russell Wilson could feast on a weak Rams secondary and Marshawn Lynch will definitely find running lanes against a poor Rams run defense.  

Fantasy News and Notes 10-24-13:

 

BYE WEEKS: Baltimore, Chicago, Houston, Indianapolis, San Diego, Tennessee

 

Quarterbacks

 

As expected, Peyton Manning returned to practice today. His ankle injury is a non-issue.

 

Tom Brady was added to the practice report injury list today as having been limited with a shoulder injury. If you remember, Brady spent all of 2012 and I think 2011 and 2010 as being listed as Probable with a shoulder injury and never missed a game. Brady should be fine for week 8.

 

Michael Vick is practicing in full this week and barring any setbacks by Sunday will start week 8 without issue. He may not run as much as he normally would because of a tender hamstring, but he's still a top 6 fantasy play this week.

 

Ryan Tannehill was limited for a second straight day because of a shoulder injury but there's a lack of concern coming out of Miami so I guess the Dolphins are just managing his reps. He should be fine for week 8.

 

 

Running Backs

 

Adrian Peterson returned to practice today after sitting out yesterday to rest a hamstring strain. Peterson may not be 100% but as long he plays, he starts in fantasy leagues.  

 

Steven Jackson put in a second consecutive practice today and is on track to play week 8 and handle the bulk of the rushing load. Jacquizz Rodgers will be his backup and change of pace while Jason Snelling is sounding unlikely to play because of an ankle injury that's preventing him from being able to practice so far this week.

 

DeMarco Murray practiced again today and it now appears he is going to play week 8 for Dallas. He may be limited some because of the knee injury that caused him to miss week 7 but Murray is likely to be the Cowboys top RB this week. His return pushes Joseph Randle down to being a change of pace backup. Duties he likely will share with Lance Dunbar. Murray is the only fantasy play here as long as he suffers no setbacks by the weekend.

 

Darren McFadden isn't on the practice report injury listings and should be close to 100% now that the bye week helped him rest up a hamstring injury. McFadden is a low end fantasy RB1 this week with a plus matchup against Pittsburgh.

 

Fred Jackson returned to practice today and is on track to start week 8. He won't be 100% because of the knee injury, but he'll be the top fantasy option for Buffalo. Especially since C.J. Spiller stands a chance of being inactive week 8. Spiller's been playing through his ankle injury, but it's clearly affecting him and the Bills are thinking about resting him this week to help it heal up. If they do that, Tashard Choice would have an expanded offensive role and might be worth acquiring as a desperation play this week.

 

Brandon Jacobs didn't practice again today and is now considered very unlikely to play week 8 because of his hamstring injury. It looks like Peyton Hillis will be the lead RB again this week with rookie Michael Cox also getting some playing time. Hillis is brutally slow, but has a decent enough matchup to be considered as a RB3 if Jacobs is indeed inactive.  

 

Mark Ingram was unable to practice again today and he's looking unlikely to play week 8 because of a toe injury that has plagued since week 2. Khiry Robinson is likely to be the grinder RB for the Saints this week behind Pierre Thomas and Darren Sproles.  

 

Rashard Mendenhall missed a second consecutive practice today because of a toe injury. Mendenhall is very questionable for week 8. If he misses the game, it's likely Alfonso Smith would handle primary RB duties, but we could also see some of Stepfan Taylor, and maybe even Ryan Williams too. Williams has been inactive every game this season as he papeared to fallen out of favor. Andre Ellington could get an increase in playing time too, but the Cardinals are said to be unsure if he'd hold up being in a more prominently featured role in the offense because of his lack of size.

 

Willis McGahee was rested in practice today. This is becoming the weekly norm for McGahee where he sits out Thursday's. He practiced in full yesterday and should be fine to plod his way through week 8 without issue.

 

And while Doug Martin is sitting out tonight's game, there's an actual plan of action on him going forward. Latest word is that Martin will be given a couple of weeks to see if he can strengthen his shoulder to the point where he can return sometime around week 12. If he has any setbacks, he'll go on injured reserve. I'll reiterate what I've said before: once the Bucs are mathematically eliminated from the playoffs, or Greg Schiano gets fired and the interim head coach replacing him has some common sense, I expect Martin to go to injured reserve. But that's just my guess.

 

 

Wide Receivers

 

Calvin Johnson returned to a limited practice today. He was just being rested yesterday. The Wednesday rest and Thursday limited routine has pretty much been the norm for Megatron the last two seasons and with the exception of a couple of weeks ago, he has always managed to play on Sunday's. He should be fine for week 8.

 

Dez Bryant returned to a full practice today after sitting out yesterday. His hamstring and wrist issues are minor and he'll be fine for week 8.

 

Eric Decker (toe) and Wes Welker (ankle) also both returned to practice today both are fine for week 8. Officially, Decker practiced in full while Welker was listed as limited.

 

Returning to limited practices today were Jacksonville's duo of Justin Blackmon (hamstring) and Cecil Shorts (clavicle). They played through their respective injuries week 7 and will do so again week 8.  

 

Danny Amendola got in a second consecutive practice today. He was limited, but it's looking like he stands a good chance of returning to the field this week after sitting out last week because of a concussion.

 

Amendola's Patriots teammate Julian Edelman has been limited all week because of a thigh injury but he is in no danger of not playing week 8 even if he is listed as Questionable again this week on tomorrow's injury report.

 

James Jones missed practice again today because of his knee injury. He is not expected to play Sunday night.

 

Roddy White also sat out practice again today. He's not expected to play week 8 either.

 

Miles Austin was limited again today in practice. Media speculation continues though that the Cowboys may sit Austin this week so he can try getting his hamstring injury healed up. He's been totally ineffective the last two weeks playing through it and probably would be again this week if he plays.

 

Kansas City added Dwayne Bowe to their injury list today as being limited with a groin injury. No word if it's serious or not but considering how poorly he's produced this season I expect you weren't considering starting him anyway.

 

Lance Moore has been practicing in full this week and looks to finally be on track to play week 8 after missing the last several games with a wrist injury. Moore's not much of a fantasy consideration though.

 

Jeremy Kerley was added to the Jets practice report injury list today as having been limited because of a hamstring strain. Kerley is tentatively expected to be okay for week 8.

 

Leonard Hankerson returned to a limited practice today after sitting out yesterday with a foot injury. He should be okay for week 8.

 

Cincinnati's Marvin Jones sat out practice again today and his status for week 8 is now uncertain because of a shoulder injury. Jones had started gaining some momentum in recent weeks as a potential fantasy option but this derails him for the short term.

 

 

Tight Ends

 

Jimmy Graham sat out practice again today because of his foot injury. It's sounding like Graham is closer to the "no" side of playing week 8 than the "yes". Do yourself an incredible favor and have a backup plan ready to go in case Graham is unable to play. If there are no attractive options on your free agent wire, grab Ben Watson. Watson will start for the Saints if Graham doesn't play.

 

Jeff Cumberland retired to Jets practice today getting in a limited session. Cumberland has a hamstring injury and I hope you have better options to consider starting anyway.

 

Detroit's Brandon Pettigrew was added to the injury list today as having been limited because of a hamstring issue. It's not known if this is a serious injury or not, but this could open the door for more playing time for Joseph Fauria. I've been saying it for weeks that I'd like to see what Fauria can do if they used him more between the 20's instead of just having him be a red zone target.

 

You can scratch Ryan Taylor from the list of TE's who could have increased roles for the Packers in place of Jermichael Finley. Taylor's been unable to practice this week because of a knee injury. Andrew Quarless and Brandon Bostick will be the Packers TE's with Quarless expected more in a blocking role and Bostick as a receiving weapon. But that's just speculation. 

Sometimes I think a dartboard would suit me better when it comes to making my weekly NFL picks. I always feel good about them on Thursday only to feel like an idiot come Tuesday morning. I went 9-6 in week 7 and that brings me to a sloppy 67-40 overall record for the 2013 season. If I don't get this corrected soon the hole will be too big to climb out of. With that in mind I'm giving it another try week 8. We'll see how I feel next Tuesday morning.

 

Here are my Week 8 NFL Game Predictions:

 

Carolina 20, Tampa Bay 13

New Orleans 31, Buffalo 20

Kansas City 23, Cleveland 16

Dallas 31, Detroit 30

New England 28, Miami 21

Philadelphia 27, NY Giants 17

San Francisco 38, Jacksonville 10

Cincinnati 20, NY Jets 17

Oakland 19, Pittsburgh 17

Atlanta 24, Arizona 23

Denver 41, Washington 34

Green Bay 34, Minnesota 21

Seattle 27, St. Louis 10

 

There you have them: my week 8 NFL game picks.

 

I said it last week I hate taking road teams playing in divisional games and it came back to bite me. The Patriots lost to the Jets and that dropped me to 5-2 on the weekly Survivor Pool Lock. It is like a microcosm of my season picking games. Here are the results through the first 7 weeks:

 

Week 1 (W; 21-17) Indianapolis over Oakland

Week 2 (L; 30-33) Philadelphia over San Diego

Week 3 (W; 45-17) Seattle over Jacksonville

Week 4 (W; 52-20) Denver over Philadelphia

Week 5 (W; 34-20) St. Louis over Jacksonville

Week 6 (W; 24-7) Kansas City over Oakland

Week 7 (L; 27-30) New England over NY Jets

 

Week 8 has some easy games to take for a lock. I'd be happy with Green Bay or New Orleans, but there is one game that just jumps off the page as being a slam dunk. As you can see from the results, 2 of my 5 hits have been taking NFC West teams over Jacksonville. The game this week between the 49ers and Jags is being played in London, but it could be played on Mars and still 95% of the time San Francisco would win. I fully expect that Colin Kaepernick, Frank Gore, Vernon Davis, and Anquan Boldin (and maybe even Kendall Hunter) are going to have strong games and the 49ers defense is going to overwhelm Chad Henne. It'll be close until the opening kickoff and then the slaughter begins.

 

My Survivor Pool Lock for Week 8 is: the San Francisco 49ers over the Jacksonville Jaguars.

 

Best of luck to all in your own picks this week!

 

Fantasy News and Notes 10-23-13:

 

BYE WEEKS: Baltimore, Chicago, Houston, Indianapolis, San Diego, Tennessee

 

Quarterbacks

 

Cleveland has benched Brandon Weeden and have decided to go with Jason Campbell as their starting QB week 8. Campbell has been nothing special the last few seasons (or really at any time of his career) despite opportunities so whether this is a permanent move, or a trial period remains to be seen. At the very least the Browns know they can turn to 43 year old Jeff Garcia if necessary.

 

The Vikings announced today that Josh Freeman is experiencing concussion like symptoms. Since I came away from Monday's night's game feeling a little woozy and dazed and confused myself, I can only imagine what it was like from his perspective. But seriously, he isn't likely to get clearance to play this week so the Vikings are turning back to Christian Ponder as their starting QB this week. I have to believe that this is a blessing for the Vikings as it gives them an excuse to sit Freeman and let him get better acquainted with the playbook before shuffling him back into the lineup for another try. For Ponder, this is truly a last chance to either reclaim the job, or show potential 2014 suitors he deserves a shot.

 

Peyton Manning sat out practice today to rest an ankle injury he originally suffered back in week 6 against Jacksonville. It's minor and Manning is not believed to be in any danger of not playing this week.

 

Miami's Ryan Tannehill was listed as limited today because of a shoulder injury. Tannehill is expected to be fine for week 8 though.

 

Even though Blaine Gabbert has been cleared to practice and return to game action after missing the last few games with a hamstring injury, the Jaguars are sticking with Chad Henne as their starting QB week 8.

 

 

Running Backs

Here's news you already knew to expect: Tampa Bay has officially ruled Doug Martin out for Thursday night. The Bucs and Martin are still holding out hope he'll be able to play later this season. HIs shoulder injury has a timetable of 4-6 weeks for recovery to the point he could possibly play despite it, but he's going to likely need surgery and with a 6 month recovery time for that, I'd think the team might want to do that sooner rather than later. At 0-6, I'd have to imagine saner heads will prevail and Martin will go to injured reserve once the last shred of mathematical possibility of the playoffs have been stripped away. Mike James  will start tomorrow night in Martin's place.

 

Adrian Peterson sat out practice today because of the hamstring strain he played through Monday night. Peterson is currently expected to be fine and start without issue.

 

Steven Jackson was able to practice in limited fashion today and barring any setbacks between now and the weekend he is expected to play. He probably won't be at full strength, but he should be the lead RB. Jacquizz Rodgers likely will handle much of the passing down duties though as he has excelled in that capacity the last 3 weeks. Jason Snelling projects to be the odd man out. Snelling sat out practice today with an ankle injury anyway.

 

DeMarco Murray was able to practice in very limited fashion today for Dallas. While this is good news in that his knee injury isn't serious, it's still expected that the Cowboys will exercise caution with him and I doubt he'll play this week. Joseph Randle did well enough as his replacement week 7 and unless Murray surprises me by being able to play, Randle will start again this week.

 

Neither Fred Jackson nor C.J. Spiller practiced today. Jackson is nursing the knee injury he aggravated week 7 and Spiller is still hobbled by an ankle injury. Both players are tentatively expected to play week 8 though.

 

Brandon Jacobs was unable to practice today because of his hamstring injury. If he doesn't practice by Friday he's not going to play. Even if active, it's likely to be a 3 headed committee with him, Peyton Hillis and rookie Michael Cox at RB, rendering none of them viable options.

 

There was hope Mark Ingram was going to be able to play week 8 after missing the last several weeks with a toe injury, but he was unable to practice today and has to be considered very questionable at this point. This just means more playing time for Darren Sproles and Pierre Thomas, which is good for their fantasy outlooks.  

 

Frank Gore was limited in practice today with a listed ankle injury. It's not believed to be anything serious and Gore should be just fine to steamroll Jacksonville's dead last ranked fantasy run defense in London this week.

 

Rashard Mendenhall sat out practice today with a toe injury. It's unknown if this was really just a day of rest for him or whether it's an aggravation of the toe injury he played through earlier in the season. Currently, if I had to start an Arizona RB, I'd be more inclined to start Andre Ellington over Mendenhall.

 

Green Bay's James Starks was able to practice in full today and it now looks like he stands a good chance of being active week 8. Starks has missed the last several games with a knee injury, but he's nothing more than a handcuff for Eddie Lacy owners.

 

 

Wide Receivers

 

Although Tampa Bay listed Mike Williams as Questionable for tomorrow night's game with his hamstring injury, he did practice in full today and is expected to play. It's not a particularly good matchup though against Carolina's 6th best fantasy pass defense so you may want to think about keeping him benched.

 

Carolina's Steve Smith is listed as Probable for tomorrow night. Smith has a minor ankle issue but is expected to be fine.

 

Roddy White sat out practice today. If he doesn't practice by Friday I would expect that the Falcons would sit him week 8 so he can continue to try healing up the hamstring and ankle injuries he's dealing with.

 

Calvin Johnson sat out practice today. Looks like we're back to the normal routine for Megatron where he sits out Wednesday practices, and sometimes Thursday as well, but returns on Friday and is a stud on Sunday. He certainly was his stud self week 7.  

 

Jacksonville's duo of Justin Blackmon (hamstring) and Cecil Shorts (clavicle) both were held out of practice today. They played their respective injuries week 7 and there's been no reported setbacks so I assume they are just getting some days of rest. Both are expected to play without issue week 8.  

 

DeSean Jackson is not on the practice report injury list for the Eagles. It looks like his foot injury is very minor and he should be fine for week 8.

 

James Jones missed practice today because of his knee injury and his status for Sunday night is very questionable. If he doesn’t practice by Friday I would expect he would sit out this week. Tentatively expect Jarrett Boykin to start again in his place.

 

Larry Fitzgerald was listed as a full participant in practice today. It's hoped that Fitz is finally getting closer to 100% as he tries to recover from his lingering hamstring injury.

 

Danny Amendola took part in a limited practice today. How limited is unknown but it's a good sign he's at least been cleared to do that as he tries to return from a concussion. Hopefully the tight-lipped Patriots let some information leak about him by Friday.

 

Miles Austin was limited in practice today. There is talk in Dallas that the team may decide to shut down Austin so he can get his hamstring healed up 100%. Austin isn't producing on the field and the emergence of rookie Terrence Williams and second year player Cole Beasley makes it a viable option.

 

Leonard Hankerson sat out Redskins practice with a foot injury. No word if it's serious enough to put his status for week 8 in jeopardy. If he misses practice tomorrow I'd recommend not trusting him.

 

Cincinnati's Marvin Jones sat out practice today with a shoulder injury he suffered week 7. He played through it though and tentatively should be okay for week 8.

 

Among WR's who were either limited in practice or did not participate but are fully expected to be fine for week 8, the list includes the Cowboys Dez Bryant (hamstring; wrist), Denver's duo of Eric Decker (toe) and Wes Welker (ankle), and New England's Julian Edelman.

 

 

Tight Ends

 

Jimmy Graham sat out practice today because of his foot injury. This is sounding like Graham is going to questionable and be the dreaded "game time decision". Graham owners should have another option ready to go as a precaution. Ben Watson would start for New Orleans if Graham can't play.

 

And I was right about Rob Gronkowski. He was limited in practice today. Few teams play as many games with their injury report than the Patriots so even though I expect he's going to be limited each day, and then listed as Questionable come Friday, I am fairly confident he'll play week 8 without issue. He appeared to have emerged from playing week 7 without aggravating his arm or back injuries.

 

Greg Olsen is listed as Probable for tomorrow night's game and is fine to consider as you normally would despite his lingering foot injury.

 

Washington's Jordan Reed practiced in full today and is expected to be fine for week 8 despite having a hip injury.

 

The 49ers Vernon Davis practiced in full. Davis has been playing through a minor hamstring strain and is fully expected to be fine for this week.

 

The Jets Jeff Cumberland sat out practice with a hamstring injury. It's uncertain whether this is serious enough to put his week 8 status in doubt or not. We should know more tomorrow.

 

Kansas City's Anthony Fasano was limited because of knee and ankle injuries. Fasano played through them week 7 and is expected to do so again week 8.

 

 

Kickers

 

Blair Walsh was listed as limited for Minnesota because of the hamstring strain he has in his non-kicking leg. Walsh is expected to be okay for this week though.

 

Fantasy News and Notes 10-22-13:

 

BYE WEEKS: Baltimore, Chicago, Houston, Indianapolis, San Diego, Tennessee

 

Quarterbacks

 

Chicago's Jay Cutler will miss at least 4 weeks because of a torn groin muscle injury. The earliest Cutler will return is week 12, and there's no guarantee he'll be ready that soon. Josh McCown will start in his place and is worth considering by those who need a QB as McCown is a semi-decent QB and there are plenty of quality weapons around him to throw to. Jordan Palmer was signed today to be McCown's backup.

 

Sam Bradford tore an ACL and his 2013 season is over. Kellen Clemens steps in as the Rams starter the remainder of the season. Clemens is a mediocre QB at best and would be an emergency only pickup. The Rams signed Austin Davis and Brady Quinn to provide depth behind Clemens.

 

With Nick Foles having sustained a concussion week 7, the Eagles are expected to start Michael Vick week 8. Vick isn't completely over his hamstring injury, but he certainly is a better QB than Matt Barkley. Barkley hype ended as soon as he went into the game this weekend replacing Foles. Even if Foles passes his concussion protocols, he was so bad that I doubt he'll start another game as long as Vick can stand.

 

Despite making my eyes bleed for 3 hours last night, Josh Freeman will remain the Vikings starting QB week 8. Freeman was beyond inaccurate but the Vikings must think he'll be better as he gets more time. I agree with them since their only other options are Christian Ponder and Matt Cassel. But I would also agree with the vast majority of the media in saying Freeman was rushed into action too soon.  

 

Cleveland is expected to stick with Brandon Weeden as their starting QB week 8 despite Weeden having played awful week 7. Their only other option is Jason Campbell. That tells you all you need to know about how bad Weeden has played. They may change their minds, but I think they'll give Weeden one more chance before turning to Campbell.

 

After Case Keenum looked better than a Texans QB has looked since week 2, Houston gets the bye to mull their options. Matt Schaub may be recovered enough from a foot injury to play when they return week 9, but then again; he may not. We'll see how this plays out next week.  

 

 

Running Backs

 

Doug Martin reportedly suffered a torn labrum in his shoulder this weekend and his season is in jeopardy. There's been no word about the Bucs putting him on injured reserve yet so those of you with Martin need to hold onto him and see how this plays out. While it's likely he's going to end up on injured reserve, it hasn't been decided yet. What has been decided is that Martin won't play Thursday night, probably has no chance to play week 9 either. Mike James takes over as the primary RB for the Bucs and should be grabbed in all fantasy leagues. It's not that James is a special talent, but he's going to be the workhorse going forward. James is a power RB who also catches the ball fairly well. RB's who are likely to get 14+ carries regularly are rare on waiver wires and there's always the chance a fresh set of legs can produce in the middle of a season. James should be a top free agent add this week in all fantasy formats. Brian Leonard will be his backup and Bobby Rainey, who was released by Cleveland last week, will be the #3.

 

The Falcons say they are expecting Steven Jackson will be able to practice Wednesday despite being a slow healer from quad and hamstring injuries. Jackson has had a lot of time off to recover and as long as he can get in a couple of practices without setbacks, he's likely to return to game action this week. Tentatively expect to have Jackson back this week.

 

No word if DeMarco Murray will be able to play week 8 or not. Murray probably will sit out with his knee sprain as it's usually a 2-3 week recovery from his injury. We'll know more later in the week but for now, I'd be planning on keeping Murray on the bench. Joseph Randle did well enough as his replacement week 7 and probably would start again if Murray doesn't play. Randle may have some competition for carries though as Lance Dunbar is tentatively expected to finally return from a hamstring injury that has held him out the last few weeks.

 

Fred Jackson aggravated his sprained knee in week 7 and while he was able to finish the game, he likely will be rested in practices this week. With C.J. Spiller also struggling with his ankle injury we could see a little more of Tashard Choice in Buffalo's backfield week 8. Jackson is a tough guy though and will still be the best fantasy bet as long as he can play.

 

It's hoped that the bye week will be enough time for Arian Foster to recover from an aggravation of his hamstring injury. Foster left Sunday's game early with the injury and never returned. If Foster is still having issues next week, Ben Tate likely would be the Texans starting RB if a couple of cracked ribs in week 7 don't prevent him. Tate played through the injury week 7 so I would expect he should be okay to wear a flak jacket and play in week 9, but that's just speculation. Houston may look to sign a RB after they waived 3rd stringer Cierre Wood Monday. Wood blew a major potential opportunity when he and a couple of teammates were released for reportedly smoking marijuana at the team's hotel. Practice squad RB Ray Graham could be called up next week if Foster or Tate aren't expected to play.  

 

The Giants hope Brandon Jacobs will be back week 8 after he missed last night with a hamstring injury. But early week reports sound iffy at best for Jacobs and it could be another week of molasses man Peyton Hillis and stutter stepping rookie Michael Cox at RB for the Giants.

 

Pittsburgh released Isaac Redman on Monday. Redman failed to capitalize on opportunities to prove himself capable of being a good RB both last year and this year and had been inactive since Le'Veon Bell returned healthy. While there is a chance some RB needy team will acquire him there's little chance he'd be much of a fantasy factor.

 

Carolina's Jonathan Stewart practiced today and the team now will have 3 weeks to decide if they want to activate him to the active roster, or place him on injured reserve. Stewart is not expected to play week 8 but could be ready by week 9 if he suffers no setbacks. DeAngelo Williams owners need to pay attention as if Stewart does return to game action, it will cut into DW's playing time.

 

 

Wide Receivers

 

The Colts placed Reggie Wayne on injured reserve today. Wayne suffered a torn ACL week 7 and his 2013 season is done. Wayne will be 35 in November and as an older WR it's very possible this injury will end his career. It's difficult to see the upside of holding onto Wayne even in dynasty leagues. T.Y. Hilton and Darrius Heyward-Bey will be the Colts starters going forward and both would be considerations for acquisition if available on your free agent wire.

 

Percy Harvin practiced today and now the Seahawks have 3 weeks to activate him to their active roster. There's a chance Harvin could be activated as soon as this week and then play Monday night against the Rams. But as of right now, I would expect week 9 as a more likely return date.

 

DeSean Jackson suffered a foot injury week 7 but he was able to play through it and finish the game. It's something I'm keeping track of during the week as originally I thought it looked pretty bad. Tentatively, I expect Jackson will be okay for week 8.

 

Brandon Marshall suffered a wrist injury week 7 but it's considered minor and he is expected to be fine for when the Bears return from their week 8 bye.

 

It's uncertain if James Jones will be able to play week 8 or not for Green Bay. Tentatively I am not expecting him to play but we'll hopefully have a better idea later in the week. Jarrett Boykin would start again if Jones can't play. If you are needy at WR and Boykin is still available in your league, you should snatch him up. Packers WR's in prominent offensive roles produce points.  

 

Also uncertain for week 8 is Atlanta's Roddy White. White missed week 7 because of hamstring and ankle injuries and may not be ready to return. Even if active, I would expect him to be just as limited as he was earlier in the season when he was a huge disappointment. Harry Douglas is a must add to fantasy rosters if he's still available. Drew Davis stepped in as the definite starter opposite Douglas last week over Kevin Cone but Davis is not an attractive fantasy option even if White misses week 8.

 

Tampa Bay's Mike Williams is tentatively expected to play Thursday night. Williams played through his hamstring injury Sunday but with it being a short week, he's not a lock to be active Thursday night. We should know more tomorrow.

 

Also unsure for week 8 is New England's Danny Amendola because of his concussion. There's been no word from the Patriots but we should get an indication of how things are going with him if he's able to practice this week.

 

 

Tight Ends

 

Green Bay's Jermichael Finley is very uncertain to play again in 2013 after suffering a bruised spinal cord injury week 7. While it's great news he didn't suffer any lengthy paralysis, he's not going to play any time soon and word is that the Packers are likely to place him on injured reserve rather than put him at any further risk this season. That hasn't happened yet though and may be more media speculation than anything based in fact. But it's clear at least Finley won't play week 8. Andrew Quarless will be the Packers starting TE, with Brandon Bostick likely to be the primary pass catching TE. We could also see an increase of playing time for Ryan Taylor. Quarless is a better blocker than receiver so I would say for those who like to speculate, Bostick is likely the better speculative grab.

 

It's too early in the week to know whether the week 7 bye was enough time for Jimmy Graham to recover from a foot injury suffered week 6. There seems to be a lot of early week speculation that Graham won't be ready to return. Expect this to come down to the wire and for Graham to be considered a game time decision. If he can't play, Ben Watson would step in as the Saints starter but Watson isn't near the receiver Graham is.  

 

Although I'm sure we're going to get a week of practice reports saying Rob Gronkowski is limited, he appeared to have emerged from playing week 7 without aggravating his arm or back injuries ad should be fine for week 8. I'll let you know if that changes.

 

Detroit released Tony Scheffler today. This should mean more opportunities for Joseph Fauria to take on a bigger role in the Lions passing attack.

 

 

2013 Rushing Fantasy Points Allowed Per Game

 

Thru Week 7

 

 

Remember the generic formula:
 
*-Total Yards allowed divided by 10 (representing 1 point for every 10 rushing yards allowed)

*-Rushing TD's allowed multiplied by 6 (representing 6 points for every TD allowed)

*-Add the two totals together and divide by number of games played

 

2013 Receiving Fantasy Points Allowed Per Game

 

Thru Week 7

 

 

Remember the generic formula:

*-Total Yards allowed divided by 10 (representing 1 point for every 10 receiving yards allowed)

*-Receiving TD's allowed multiplied by 6 (representing 6 points for every TD allowed)

*-Add the two totals together and divide by number of games played

 

AFC EAST

 

Buffalo: Rookie QB E.J. Manuel remains OUT with a knee injury and won't be back until around week 12. Thaddeus Lewis suffered a foot injury week 6 as his replacement but is Probable and will start again this week. Matt Flynn was signed to be his backup as the Bills have no faith in Jeff Tuel being effective if needed. RB C.J. Spiller is Probable despite being hobbled by an ankle injury. Spiller has explosive potential any time he touches the ball even with the ankle issue, but he's on the wrong side of the time share with surprising Fred Jackson. Jackson's playing like a strong fantasy RB2 while Spiller more often than not is a mediocre RB3. But it's hard to not have his big play ability in fantasy lineups. WR Steve Johnson is also Probable and will play this week after missing last week with a back injury.

 

Miami: Brandon Gibson is Questionable with a hip injury and will be a game time decision. This could be a good week for WR Mike Wallace as the Bills have allowed 9 passing plays of 40+ yards (second most in the league). Both he and teammate Brian Hartline make good considerations for fantasy WR2/3's or flex options. RB Lamar Miller should be able to get some good yards this week as the Bills run defense ranks 28th in rush yards allowed. Hopefully he does enough to push Daniel Thomas into a backup role instead of the inexplicable timeshare the two still get.

 

New England: After being cleared by his own independent doctors on Friday, Rob Gronkowski is expected to make his 2013 debut and play this week. Gronkowski is officially listed as Questionable, but all reports say he will play. It's considered likely he won't be limited at all and if you've been holding onto him, you can finally start him. WR Danny Amendola is OUT with a concussion. It's unknown if this is a one week concussion, or it's a multiple week concussion. Even though Julian Edelman is listed as Questionable with a thigh injury, he is expected to play and be fine. Expect Edelman to be an oft-targeted WR this week, but likely to be only better than fellow WR's Kenbrell Thompkins and Aaron Dobson in the ppr format. RB Brandon Bolden is expected to be fine for his normal role as 3rd down RB and change of pace despite being listed again as Questionable with a knee injury. Stevan Ridley finally had a great game last week and if he can have a repeat against a strong Jets run defense this week, he'll clearly be back in the good graces of both the Patriots, and fantasy owners.

 

New York Jets: With Mike Goodson OUT the rest of the season with a torn ACL, Bilal Powell (Probable; neck) and Chris Ivory (Probable; hamstring) are going to split up RB duties. Powell has been operating as the top in the RBBC, but if Ivory can stay healthy, it's likely Powell will move into the 3rd down and complimentary role with Ivory in the lead. It hasn't happened yet, but probably is coming in a couple of weeks. WR Santonio Holmes is expected to miss a couple more weeks because of a hamstring injury. TE Kellen Winslow was suspended 4 games by the NFL for violating the league's ban on PED's. Jeff Cumberland is the Jets starting TE.

 

AFC NORTH

 

Baltimore: With the exception of Brandon Stokley (Doubtful; thigh), the Ravens are finally healthy at WR. Marlon Brown and Jacoby Jones aren't on the injury report at all. The rotation opposite Torrey Smith will be interesting to watch over the next few games as Jones adds an element of speed Brown and Doss lack, but Doss has had strong performances while those two were battling injuries. Ray Rice also isn't on the injury report either but he needs to get on track. He's only got 284 total yards and 3 TD's in 5 games played. Maybe now that he's healthy he'll start doing something.

 

Cincinnati: Despite the timeshare going on between Giovani Bernard and Benjarvus Green-Ellis, Bernard is producing like a high end fantasy RB2. The Lions give up nearly 125 rushing yards per game on average so there should be more good stats coming from Bernard (and maybe BGE, too). Andy Dalton had his best game of the year in week 6, but there's clearly some disconnect going on as that was his first 300+ yard game of the year and the first time he's thrown for 3 TD's. Last year through 6 weeks, Dalton had three 300+ yard games and three games with 3 passing TD's. Rookie TE Tyler Eifert and veteran TE Jermaine Gresham continue to cancel each other out in games. Combined, their 43 receptions for 435 yards would be pretty good (although neither has scored a TD yet). But those split up almost evenly between the two of them barely makes each a fantasy TE3.

 

Cleveland: Willis McGahee is Probable and will start and be fine despite a minor knee injury. It's a tough matchup against a surprisingly strong Green Bay run defense though and McG can't be counted as anything more than a RB3. The Browns released backup RB Bobby Rainey this week, leaving the backup spot to Chris Ogbonnaya. Ogbonnaya isn't special, but he dominates passing downs as he is a much better pass catcher and blocker than McGahee. While the Browns deny shopping WR Josh Gordon I bet they'd jump on the chance to get a second round pick for him if offered. I won't be surprised if that happens before the trade deadline October 29th. Brandon Weeden continues to get criticized and it's a good bet that if the Browns had a better backup QB than Jason Campbell, they'd be sitting Weeden, even if he hasn't played too poorly. You gotta feel for a guy who was so highly believed in by the former regime last year and was willing to let him go throw growing pains, to a regime that doesn't hide the fact they wished they didn't have you.

 

Pittsburgh: With rookie Markus Wheaton OUT (finger) Jerricho Cotchery is the #3 WR. Cotchery has been surprisingly effective this season as in 4 games played, he's managed to put up a 15-248-2 stat line. The desperate at WR could do worse as while he lacks big play ability, he just seems to get passes thrown his way. From a fantasy perspective, he's out producing Emmanuel Sanders (23-301-1 in 5 games). Rookie RB Le'Veon Bell struggled last week against a strong Jets run defense but should find it easier against the Ravens. The Ravens were gashed by Packers rookie RB Eddie Lacy last week and Bell is very similar to Lacy in terms of being a power RB.

 

AFC SOUTH

 

Houston: With Matt Schaub OUT with ankle and foot injuries, and T.J. Yates having been so bad last week replacing him after he got injured, Case Keenum will start for Houston. Keenum lacks an NFL arm and stands barely over 6'0" tall, so this could very well be a case of "be careful of what you wish for" Texans fans. But we don't know whether Keenum will be better than expected or flop terribly. At least he has a strong running game and one of the game's best WR's to throw to. Expect a heavy dose of Arian Foster (Probable; thumb, chest, and hamstring) and probably a bit more of Ben Tate as well. I also would expect that Keenum will be looking a lot for Andre Johnson. Johnson will either be big or a big bust this week. The severity of Schaub's injuries is unknown so we don't know if he'll be available next week or not.

 

Indianapolis: Trent Richardson is still struggling despite having had over a month now to get in rhythm with his new offense. Richardson has run hard and been elusive, but either the Colts aren't giving him enough carries (only 10 last week) or he is missing something in his game. Expect the Colts to score points n Denver, but not enough to win the game. Luck, Wayne, Hilton, and Richardson should score plenty enough to be strong fantasy players though.

 

Jacksonville: Both starting WR's, Justin Blackmon and Cecil Shorts, are Questionable and both are considered to be game time decisions. Blackmon has a hamstring injury while Shorts has a sternoclavicular joint sprain. Both players have said they are going to play, but it's hard to trust they will be effective. I think the reason they'll both be active is because WR's Ace Sanders and Stephen Burton are OUT week 7 with concussions. This leaves Blackmon, Shorts, Mike Brown, and Stephen Williams as the only remaining WR's on the roster. Blackmon is still likely to prove good enough to be considered a fantasy WR2/3, but I have little hope for any of the others. TE Marcedes Lewis is expected to play. He's Probable and should be able to play through a calf injury he's struggled all season with. Blackmon and Shorts would have both been good fantasy bets if healthy given a nice matchup against San Diego, but now it's hard to trust either.

 

Tennessee: Latest reports say that barring any setbacks in pregame warmups tomorrow that Jake Locker will start at QB this week. Locker has only missed 2 games because of hip and knee injuries suffered 3 weeks ago. It's doubtful he'll be near 100% effective, but as of now, it looks like Ryan Fitzpatrick will go back to the bench. RB Shonn Greene is supposed to return this week and play for the first time since week 1 when he suffered a minor knee injury. Greene will move back into the top backup and short yardage/goal line RB role behind Chris Johnson. WR Kenny Britt could likely be had for a 7th round pick and it's a tribute to how screwed up he is off the field that no team is willing to part with a low draft pick for him despite his immense natural talent.

 

AFC WEST

 

Denver: Peyton Manning returns to Indianapolis for the first time since the Colts released him. After Colts owner Jim Irsay had some questionable remarks about the lack of championships Manning won in Indy earlier in the week, I have every expectation that Manning will throw for several TD's, and probably run up a score without trying too much. The difference in talent between the two teams is striking and throwing gasoline on the fireball that is the Broncos  offense was just dumb.

 

Kansas City: Rookie TE Travis Kelce was placed on injured reserve with a knee injury. He has dynasty potential but re-draft leaguers should have given up hope a while ago. TE Anthony Fasano is finally expected to play after missing a few games with knee and ankle injuries. His return isn't fantasy impactful other than it likely ends Sean McGrath's reign as a middling fantasy TE2. Alex Smith might think he's in heaven this week as he doesn't throw for a lot of yards and the Texans don't allow opponents to throw for a lot of yards. It's a match for both sides. Smith doesn't put up great numbers when he has great matchups so he should be avoided this week. I think I saw Dwayne Bowe on the side of a milk carton this week.

 

Oakland: The Raiders are on bye this week and we'll revisit them next week.

 

San Diego: There was a Ryan Mathews sighting week 6 and with another great matchup this week, Mathews has a good chance for a second consecutive strong performance. Danny Woodhead has really taken on a strong offensive presence and is being even better utilized now than he was in New England. WR Eddie Royal is Questionable after not practicing all week because of a toe injury. Even if active, he's been bypassed by impressive rookie Keenan Allen. Allen appears to have earned Philip Rivers' trust and Allen is a strong fantasy WR2 with a matchup against Jacksonville this week.

 

NFC EAST

 

Dallas: With DeMarco Murray Doubtful with a sprained knee and normal top backup RB Lance Dunbar OUT with a hamstring injury, rookie Joseph Randle is expected to start and carry the load for the Cowboys this week. Dallas has said Murray could still end up being active, but I doubt it. I expect Randle to dominate RB snaps and be backed up by Phillip Tanner. Randle isn't a special talent, but he's a high effort guy and runs and catches the ball well enough. Randle is a consideration as a low end fantasy RB2 this week with a great matchup against a suspect Eagles defense. Miles Austin is Probable and will play despite sitting out a couple of practices this week to rest his injured hamstring. Austin played week 6 but was shut out of the boxscore. He could be again despite a good matchup. I actually prefer rookie Terrence Williams and think Williams is not just the better fantasy play this week, but could be the better WR going forward and push Austin out of the starting lineup.  

 

New York Giants: RB Brandon Jacobs is Questionable and considered a game time decision for Monday night because of a hamstring injury. This is part of why it's hard to trust 31 year old RB's who 6 weeks were sitting at home: they don't heal up as quickly as they used to. Peyton Hillis was signed during the week and probably would be the favorite for a high amount of work over Michael Cox. The Giants have had plenty of chances to give Cox playing time and they've done everything they can to not have him in games. Jacobs is a huge risk, and I'd only chance him if I also had Hillis I could switch him out for at a moment's notice if come Monday we learn Jacobs isn't able to play. If you saw my week 7 MFL game predictions, you'll see I like the Gants to get the win over Minnesota this week. I think Eli Manning is going to tear it up against the Vikings last ranked fantasy pass defense.

 

Philadelphia: Nick Foles will start at QB again this week despite Michael Vick being listed as Questionable and also listed as having practiced in full Friday. Vick says publicly that his hamstring injury isn't healed up yet (which is probably true) enough for him to do all that he normally does. And that he won't come back until it is. But I think this is a very simple case of while Foles is playing well, he'll remain the starter. The first time Foles struggles in a game, Vick's hamstring will be pronounced 100% healed up and he'll get the job back. That's just my speculation by reading between the lines though. Vick is likely to be active again this week as the "emergency" QB, just like he was last week. Foles is a strong fantasy QB1 this week with a great matchup against the Cowboys suspect secondary. The TE reps are getting more even between Brent Celek and rookie Zach Ertz. Ertz has only 1 fewer receptions than Celek so far on the season and is starting to get more incorporated into the offense. Keep an eye on Ertz's development as with no true #2 WR on the team, Ertz could emerge in the second half of the season as a good fantasy TE.

 

Washington: RG3 has lobbied for more designed QB running plays to be called and so it's hoped that he will start producing like he was last year before suffering that devastating knee injury. That may also help out RB Alfred Morris. Morris has been pretty steady, but hasn't been a real powerhouse like he was last season. Of course, with Washington falling behind in games, and passing down duties being manned by Roy Helu, Morris has had a tough time getting carries as he averages just over 14 rushing attempts per game through 5 games. TE Jordan Reed continues to assert himself as the top receiving TE and should be considered a strong fantasy TE2 going forward.

 

NFC NORTH

 

Chicago: TE Martellus Bennett is Questionable and while expected to play, he could be a game time decision because of a knee injury he's been playing through. Tentatively pencil him into starting lineups with a great matchup this week. QB Jay Cutler should be a strong fantasy consideration as he gets a Redskins pass D that allows 293 passing yards and 2 passing TD's each game on average.

 

Detroit: Calvin Johnson is Probable and practiced each day this week, which is a rarity even when he's healthy. It's expected that while he isn't 100% on that knee injury he's been nursing, he should be able to do a lot more than the limited snaps he played last week. I'm still a little hesitant to declare him his usual "must play" self though. But he should be considered as a strong fantasy WR2. Kris Durham has taken over as the starter opposite Megatron and could continue to surprise since much hyped Ryan Broyles doesn't seem to be doing much despite opportunity. Durham may continue to push for playing time even when Nate Burleson returns from a broken arm injury in a few weeks. TE Joseph Fauria continues to excel as a big red zone target, but he needs to start getting more looks between the 20's as you can't rely on TD's every week from him. Backup RB Joique Bell is tentatively expected to play this week despite a bruised ribs injury. But he can't be relied on as even a flex option with the uncertainty. It's unknown if Theo Riddick will be active (Questionable; concussion) so it could be Mikel Leshoure who is the top backup to Reggie Bush this week. Bush is the only Lions RB worthy of fantasy consideration though.

 

Green Bay: WR Randall Cobb was placed on the injured reserve/designated for return list after suffering a lower leg fracture last week. He's eligible to return in week 15. For fantasy purposes though, it's unknown if he'll be back by then and those in re-draft leagues should have dropped him. WR James Jones is listed as Questionable for week 7 despite not having practiced at all this week because of a knee sprain suffered last week. Jones is considered a game time decision and I expect if he's active, he'll be used in a very limited fashion, making him not a fantasy factor at all. Jarrett Boykin likely takes over as a starter opposite Jordy Nelson and the Packers called up practice squad WR Myles White to be their #3 (if Jones doesn't play) or #4 (if Jones does). They also claimed WR Chris Harper off waivers after he was let go by the 49ers. Boykin could make a very sneaky fantasy play this week with Jordy Nelson likely drawing Browns CB Joe Haden most of the day. I also expect Jermichael Finley will get more playing time at WR and he could have a bump up in value. The main guy who could benefit is rookie RB Eddie Lacy. Lacy is a feature style RB who could get 20+ carries with the injuries at WR as the Packers would be foolish to not try to balance their offense. James Starks is OUT again with his knee injury so Johnathan Franklin will be Lacy's backup, but he has little chance for fantasy value unless Lacy gets injured.

 

Minnesota: The Josh Freeman era begins in Minnesota. Matt Cassel has been demoted to 3rd string after a horrible showing week 6. Christian Ponder will be Freeman's backup the rest of the season. Freeman will have some struggles, but I think he's also going to prove to be an improvement over what the Vikings have seen from Ponder and Cassel. Greg Jennings and Jerome Simpson may actually discover fantasy value with Freeman at the helm. RB Adrian Peterson is Probable and will start without issue despite having a minor hamstring injury. Kicker Blair Walsh is also Probable and will fine to kick despite having a hamstring issue on his non-kicking leg.

 

NFC SOUTH

 

Atlanta: With Julio Jones out for the year, and Roddy White OUT for week 7 with hamstring and ankle injuries, Harry Douglas will start and Drew Davis and Kevin Cone will vie for targets opposite him. Matt Ryan will have his work cut out for him. RB Steven Jackson is now listed as having a hamstring injury and not just a quad bruise as was originally reported each week since sustaining the injury back in week 2. Jackson is OUT for week 7 leaving Jacquizz Rodgers and Jason Snelling (Probable; concussion) to split up the RB duties. Atlanta's season is sinking and if they lose this week, they may be in a serious downward spiral they won't recover from.

 

Carolina: TE Greg Olsen is Probable despite a foot injury. He keeps playing through it, but is clearly being affected by it in games. RB DeAngelo Williams stands a good chance of being an excellent fantasy RB2 this week with a matchup against the Rams soft as butter run defense. RB Jonathan Stewart still isn't able to practice and the Panthers have a few weeks to decide if they will activate him from the PUP list or place him on injured reserve. I'm betting on IR as he's still having issues with one of the ankle's he had surgery on way back towards the beginning of the year. The combination of Williams and Mike Tolbert seems to be doing just fine and if rookie Kenjon Barner can stay healthy, he might carve a niche out eventually too.

 

New Orleans: The Saints are bye this week and we'll revisit them next week.

 

Tampa Bay: WR Mike Williams is Questionable with a hamstring injury that caused him to miss week 6, but he is expected to play week 7. RB Doug Martin is overdue for a big game and with the reeling Falcons on the schedule this week it could be he gets it going against them. Rookie Mike Glennon gets a lot more slack from the coaching staff than former starter Josh Freeman ever did. Freeman was blamed by the coaching staff when his team's defense gave up late 4th quarter leads. Glennon had the Bucs with a lead at halftime week 6, but then the defense gave it up in the second half and Glennon never came close to getting them into the end zone again. But he isn't getting any blame. I will not be surprised if Greg Schiano is the first head coach fired in the NFL in 2013.

 

NFC WEST

 

Arizona: Larry Fitzgerald played through his bothersome hamstring injury Thursday night, but it was a contributing factor in his poor stat line. Bruce Arians says he isn't thinking of benching struggling Carson Palmer, but he'll have no choice soon if Palmer doesn't stop throwing interceptions. There's a difference between Eli Manning throwing INT's and keeping his job and Palmer throwing INT's and keeping his job: Manning has 2 Super Bowl Rings. Drew Stanton needs to start getting some first team reps in practice and be ready for his chance. It's coming soon.

 

St. Louis: Zac Stacy has solidified his role as the Rams top RB. Nice to be right about someone as I've been saying it since the draft: Stacy is the Rams best RB and should be starting. Daryl Richardson has stepped into a backup role with Isaiah Pead the #3 RB. WR Tavon Austin's role has been decreasing and while some blame QB Sam Bradford, I think Austin's immense hype was just that: a lot of hype. Smaller WR's don't come in and make instant impacts very often.

 

San Francisco: WR Jonathan Baldwin is Questionable because of an illness. He's failed to take advantage of increased playing time and may find himself on the bottom of the pecking order soon. Mario Manningham is expected back in the next 2 weeks. Manningham isn't a great WR coming off a torn ACL, but he's easily better than anyone else the 49ers could start opposite Anquan Boldin. The 49ers are blowing it by not acquiring someone like Josh Gordon, Hakeem Nicks, or Kenny Britt to provide them with some immediate help while they cling to hope of Michael Crabtree returning sometime in December.  

 

Seattle: There's a chance WR Percy Harvin is back in either week 8 or 9. Harvin reportedly is ahead of schedule on his recovery from hip surgery and could be activated as soon as next week. His return would likely be timely if the sprained foot injury Golden Tate suffered Thursday turns out to be serious.  

 

Fantasy News and Notes 10-17-13:

 

BYE WEEKS: New Orleans, Oakland

 

Quarterbacks

 

Houston named Case Keenum their starting QB week 7. Matt Schaub has been ruled OUT with his ankle injury. Keenum is a second year player who spent all of last season on the Texans practice squad. He's not big, nor does he have a big arm, but he was very prolific in college and the Texans are looking for a spark after usual backup T.J. Yates was awful replacing Schaub last week.

 

Thaddeus Lewis practiced in full again today and is fully expected to start this week despite having a sprained foot. One of the things that made Lewis look good last week was his mobility so a drop in that could mean for a much poorer performance this week. But apparently Buffalo believes a hobbled Lewis is a better option than Matt Flynn. E.J. Manuel is not expected back until week 11 or 13. The Bills have the bye in week 12.

 

Michael Vick declared himself out for week 7. Vick's hamstring supposedly isn't healing up as quick as hoped. But I think how bad the hamstring is probably is directly tied to how well Nick Foles performs. If Foles struggles week 7 I won't be at all surprised if it magically is a whole lot better next week. If Foles does great again, the hamstring probably will need at least another week before it's healed up.  

 

Jake Locker has been cleared for contact in practices and took part in a limited practice again today for the Titans. While he hasn't been ruled out for week7, it's highly unlikely he'll be ready to play that soon. But it is starting to look like he will be back in week 9. Tennessee has the bye in week 8.

 

 

Running Backs

 

Adrian Peterson was limited in practice today because of a listed hamstring issue. It's believed that AP is fine and the Vikings are just being very careful with any type of discomfort their star RB may have. I fully expect AP will be fine for Monday night.

 

Arian Foster was held out of practice today. He's listed with thumb, chest, and hamstring injuries. The thumb and chest issues were listed yesterday when he practiced in full, but the hamstring is new. While it's not currently believed to be a serious concern, I'll feel a whole lot beter about Foster if he can at get in a limited practice tomorrow. We'll see how he's listed on tomorrow's injury report.

 

C.J. Spiller returned to a limited practice today and he is expected to be fine for his recent role as change of pace to Fred Jackson for Buffalo.

 

Steven Jackson missed practice again today for Atlanta and while not ruled out yet, he is not going to play this week.

 

Zac Stacy returned to a full practice today. Stacy will be just fine for the Rams matchup against Carolina this week.

 

Maurice Jones-Drew also returned to a full practice today. He'll be fine for week 7.

 

Cleveland's Willis McGahee was held out of practice today because of a listed knee injury. McGahee wasn't on the Wednesday injury list so it's not known if this is a new injury, or just a day of rest for a guy who 4 weeks ago was sitting at home. It's a poor matchup against a surprisingly strong Green Bay run defense, so I already have about 30 other RB's I'd rather have in a fantasy starting lineup.

 

As expected, Brandon Jacobs returned to a limited practice today after resting a sore hamstring yesterday. Jacobs will be fine for Monday night.

 

Tennessee is expected to have Shonn Greene back this week. Greene has missed the last few weeks recovering from a minor knee procedure. His expected return pushes Jackie Battle back to being 3rd on the Titans RB depth chart. Greene is likely to handle short yardage and goal line work.

 

 

Wide Receivers

 

Justin Blackmon returned to a limited practice today after sitting out yesterday with a minor hamstring issue. He's fully expected to be fine for this week. Cecil Shorts also got in a limited practice, but reports are that he is having a hard time raising his arms above his head and he is considered to be a game time decision. It sounds more likely that Shorts will miss week 7 than it does he will play.  

 

Calvin Johnson got in a second consecutive limited practice today. Apparently he made it through yesterday's limited practice without any setbacks in his knee injury and it's expected that he will play a bigger role week 7 than he was able to in week 6.

 

No practice again today for Atlanta's Roddy White because of hamstring and ankle injuries. It's looking like even if he is active, he is going to be even more limited than he was the first 5 weeks of the season.

 

James Jones didn't practice again today and I think it's very likely he is either going to be ruled out or listed as Doubtful on Friday's injury report because of his knee injury. Jarrett Boykin is a guy to grab off waiver wires if you have a need at WR and he's available

 

New England's Danny Amendola missed practice today because of a concussion suffered week 6. I not only doubt he plays this week, but considering his inability to recover quickly from injuries, I'll be surprised if he plays week 8.  

 

After getting in a limited practice yesterday, Steve Johnson put in a full practice today and is now fully expected to be fine for week 7 after missing last week with a back injury.

 

After practicing in full yesterday, Miles Austin was held out of today's practice for Dallas. It's believed to be just a day of rest for Austin as the Cowboys know only too well his lengthy hamstring injury history. As long as he practices tomorrow, he should be just fine for week 7. I'm still of the opinion that rookie Terrence Williams is a better fantasy bet and will eventually push Austin out of the starting lineup. It's not that Austin lacks talent; he lacks the ability to stay healthy.

 

Tampa Bay's Mike Williams got in a second consecutive limited practice today. While the hamstring injury isn't completely healed up, it's starting to look he will be okay to play week 7.

 

 

Tight Ends

 

As expected, Chicago's Martellus Bennett returned to practice today after sitting out yesterday's with a minor knee injury. Bennett should be fine for week 7.

 

Greg Olsen also returned to practice today after sitting out yesterday with a foot injury. He's limited by it some, but he is expected to play week 7.

 

Marcedes Lewis practiced for a second consecutive day today. It looks like he will be able to play this week after missing most of the season with a calf injury.

 

 

Kickers

 

Minnesota's Blair Walsh was held out of practice today because of a hamstring injury. Walsh played through the injury to his non-kicking leg week 6 and likely the Vikings are just resting him so as to not take chances on aggravating it. Right now, I'm not too concerned about him being in danger of not kicking Monday night.

 

Week 6 wasn't as good as I had hoped. 10-5 is okay, but nothing that inspires a "whoo-hoo!" or anything like it. It puts me at an incredibly mediocre 58-34 for the season and I need to take it up a notch going forward. Unfortunately, I have a high amount of road teams winning this week, and that's usually not a good thing. But I call 'em the way I see 'em, even if I get it wrong.

 

Here are my Week 7 NFL Game Predictions:

 

Seattle 17, Arizona 16

Miami 23, Buffalo 16

Chicago 27, Washington 20

Detroit 20, Cincinnati 17

Dallas 31, Philadelphia 27

New England 23, NY Jets 13

San Diego 24, Jacksonville 17

St. Louis 24, Carolina 21

Atlanta 20, Tampa Bay 17

San Francisco 23, Tennessee 20

Pittsburgh 24, Baltimore 23

Green Bay 24, Cleveland 17

Kansas City 30, Houston 20

Denver 42, Indianapolis 28

NY Giants 27, Minnesota 24

 

There you have them: my week 7 NFL game picks.

 

In my Survivor Pool Locks, I improved to 5-1 as Kansas City came through and beat the Raiders in Arrowhead last week for the first time since 2006. I knew the Law of Averages was on my side there. Here are the weekly picks and results to date:

 

Week 1 (W; 21-17) Indianapolis over Oakland

Week 2 (L; 30-33) Philadelphia over San Diego

Week 3 (W; 45-17) Seattle over Jacksonville

Week 4 (W; 52-20) Denver over Philadelphia

Week 5 (W; 34-20) St. Louis over Jacksonville

Week 6 (W; 24-7) Kansas City over Oakland

 

Week 7 poses a bit of a challenge since my two favorite teams this week aren't available for me to pick as I've already used them. And while I'm pretty confident in one of the road teams this week, I always have doubts when picking divisional rivals. But the simple fact is that the Patriots are the far superior team to the Jets and Geno Smith has been a roller coaster of ups and downs. Usually on the road, the Pats beat the Jets pretty convincingly. Doesn't always work that way, but it's typically been a good pick. If Smith plays well, this game will be close; if he plays poorly, I can the Patriots running away with it.

 

My Survivor Pool Lock for Week 7 is: the New England Patriots over the New York Jets

 

Best of luck to all in your own picks!

 

Fantasy News and Notes 10-16-13:

 

BYE WEEKS: New Orleans, Oakland

 

Quarterbacks

 

Minnesota named Josh Freeman their starting QB for Monday night's game against the New York Giants. Freeman s likely to remain the Vikings starting QB the rest of the season barring awful performances. Christian Ponder is expected to be the backup and Matt Cassel drops to being the #3.

 

Thaddeus Lewis practiced in full today and is expected to be able to start this week for Buffalo despite having a sprained foot. One of the things that made Lewis look good last week was his mobility so a drop in that could mean for a much poorer performance this week. But apparently Buffalo believes a hobbled Lewis is a better option than Matt Flynn. E.J. Manuel is not expected back until week 11 or 13. The Bills have the bye in week 12.

 

Matt Schaub was unable to practice today and while he hasn't been ruled out yet for week 7, it's considered unlikely he'll be able to play with his ankle injury. T.J. Yates and Case Keenum split up the first team reps in practice today and there's been no word on which player the Texans are leaning towards. It may take until Friday before a starter is announced.

 

Just like last week, Michael Vick is practicing in limited fashion this week, but he will not start week 7. Vick is still having some issues with his hamstring injury and the Eagles won't bring him back until the injury is totally healed up. Nick Foles will start again for the Eagles this week.

 

Jake Locker was able to take part in a very limited practice today for the Titans. Locker has been out the last 2 games because of hip and knee injuries. He isn't expected back until week 9 the soonest, and maybe not even then. Ryan Fitzpatrick will continue to start until he can return.

 

 

Running Backs

 

As expected, both DeMarco Murray (knee) and Lance Dunbar (hamstring) were unable to practice today. Neither is expected to play week 7. Rookie Joseph Randle is expected to start for Dallas this week and be backed up by Phillip Tanner.

 

C.J. Spiller was held out of Bills practice today because of his ankle injury. Spiller played through it week 6 but was clearly affected by it and while expected to play this week, at best it looks like he'll be on the wrong side of a split situation again with Fred Jackson this week. Until Spiller gets over the injury he's a dicey fantasy bet as a RB2/3.

 

Steven Jackson still has yet to practice for Atlanta despite it having been nearly 5 weeks since he injured his hamstring. He hasn't been ruled out yet, but he's not expected to play week 7. Jacquizz Rodgers and Jason Snelling will split the load again in his place. Snelling practiced in full today and appears to have gotten over a concussion he suffered week 5.

 

Marshawn Lynch is Probable for Seattle's Thursday night game against Arizona. He'll be fine despite a minor hip issue.

 

The Rams held Zac Stacy out of practice today. This is just like last week when Stacy sat out Wednesday's practice to rest a chest injury. Stacy has literally taken the Rams RB starting job and ran away with it and is fully expected to be fine for week 7.

 

Maurice Jones-Drew didn't practice today but the Jaguars say it wasn't injury related. It's probably just a scheduled day of rest for him.

 

Detroit's Joique Bell got in a limited practice today despite having bruised ribs. He should be okay for his normal backup role to Reggie Bush week 7.

 

James Starks has already been ruled OUT for week 7 because of his lingering knee injury. Johnathan Franklin looks like he'll backup Eddie Lacy again this week. With the way Lacy is playing, Starks is purely a Lacy handcuff for fantasy owners when he eventually gets healthy.

 

The Giants signed Peyton Hillis today. Hillis is expected to get some playing time Monday night as a backup to Brandon Jacobs, but he'll split backup duties with rookie Michael Cox. Jacobs has a sore hamstring, but is fully expected to be fine for Monday night.

 

 

Wide Receivers

 

Larry Fitzgerald practiced in full today and is listed as Probable for Arizona's game against Seattle tomorrow night. Fitz may be limited some because of his hamstring injury but he will play and you can consider him if you lack other quality options.  

 

Justin Blackmon sat out practice today. He's listed as having a hamstring issue. But I expect he's just a little sore after such a huge workload week 6. Providing he returns to practice tomorrow he should be fine for week 7. His teammate, Cecil Shorts, also didn't practice. But unlike Blackmon, Shorts is in real danger of not playing this week because of his sternoclavicular joint sprain.

 

Calvin Johnson was a surprise participant in practice today. Officially, Johnson got in a limited practice. Johnson rarely practices on Wednesday's even when healthy so this could be a good sign that he'll be able to be more than a decoy week 7 for the Lions. If he practices again Thursday and Friday, I might even consider starting him in my lineups.

 

James Jones didn't practice today and while he hasn't been ruled out for week 7 yet, he's not likely to play. Jarrett Boykin is expected to start in his place for the Packers.

 

Andre Johnson was limited in practice because of his shin injury. He's been playing through it though and is fully expected to do so again week 7 for the Texans.

 

Danny Amendola missed practice today because of a concussion suffered week 6. He isn't expected to play this week for New England.

 

Roddy White was held out of practice today because of his hamstring and ankle injuries. White is very questionable to play for Atlanta week 7.

 

Buffalo's Steve Johnson was able to practice in limited fashion today. Johnson missed week 6 with a back injury. Barring any setbacks, I expect Johnson will be able to play this week.

 

It's hoped that after getting in a limited practice today Tampa Bay's Mike Williams will be able to play week 7. Williams sat out week 6 with a hamstring injury.

 

Eddie Royal missed practice today because of a toe injury. Royal's been bypassed by rookie Keenan Allen in the Chargers WR pecking order.

 

Tight Ends

 

Seattle's Zach Miller is listed as Probable and will play tomorrow night for the first time in a couple of games. Miller has been battling a hamstring injury. Considering the problems the Cardinals have had covering TE's, Miller can be considered by the truly desperate.

 

Chicago's Martellus Bennett was held out of practice today. This is becoming the norm for Bennett on Wednesday's because of a minor knee injury he's been playing through. He should be fine for week 7.

 

Rob Gronkowski was limited in practice today. Gronkowski reportedly has the power to make himself active or inactive each week and it's anyone's best guess whether he'll choose to play this week or not.

 

Greg Olsen sat out practice today with a foot injury. Olsen missed last Wednesday's practice but was able to play. I expect that will be the story again this week.

 

Jacksonville may have Marcedes Lewis back this week. Lewis practiced in limited fashion today and barring any setbacks in the calf injury that has plagued him so far this season he should be able to play week 7. I wouldn't think of starting him though until he makes it through a complete game with any issue.

 

Fantasy News and Notes 10-15-13:

 

BYE WEEKS: New Orleans, Oakland

 

Quarterbacks

 

 

After a stellar performance week 6, Nick Foles will start again for the Eagles this week. Michael Vick was active this past week, but only as the emergency QB and he still isn't completely healed up the hamstring injury he suffered two weeks ago. While Foles plays well, I don't expect the Eagles to rush back until the hammy is truly close to 100%. And if Foles plays lights out, I don't expect Vick to get the job back when he is 100%.

 

No word yet on who will start for the Texans week 7 yet. Matt Schaub suffered an undisclosed foot or ankle injury week 6 and his backup, T.J. Yates then proceeded to throw a pick-6 a few plays later. The Texans say they will wait until later in the week to determine who will start, but the options are: a gimpy Schaub who was ineffective before getting injured this past week; Yates, who looked inept; or Case Keenum. Keenum is, of course, the fans favorite as he has yet to look terrible. Keenum spent 2012 on the Texans practice squad.

 

The Vikings have yet to name a starting QB for week 7. In week 6 Matt Cassel predictably looked like the inept Matt Cassel we saw in Kansas City. Who starts depends entirely on how well Josh Freeman has picked up the offense since being signed last week. If the Vikings think Freeman has learned enough of it, it's likely he'll start. If they don't feel comfortable with his knowledge of the offense, it will likely be Cassel. There's also a chance they could give Christian Ponder one last chance, but I get the feeling the team is ready to move on from him. I expect the Vikings will announce it by Thursday.

 

Thaddeus Lewis is uncertain to be able to play week 7 for Buffalo. Lewis looked a whole lot better than anyone expected week 6 but a foot injury could make him miss the game. The Bills are so scared of backup Jeff Tuel running their offense they actually went out and signed Matt Flynn to start this week if Lewis can't.  

 

 

Running Backs

 

With DeMarco Murray expected to miss week 7 with a knee injury, and Lance Dunbar unlikely to play because of a hamstring injury, rookie Joseph Randle is line to start for Dallas this week against a mediocre Eagles run defense. Randle isn't a special talent, but he is a high effort guy who has a well rounded game as both a rushing and receiving RB. For one week (and maybe two) Randle could provide some fantasy help. He'll be backed up by Phillip Tanner. Tanner isn't considered likely to have a big offensive role unless Randle totally blows his chance.

 

It was hoped that this would be the week that Steven Jackson would return for the Falcons, but latest word says Jackson still isn't over his hamstring injury and that he may need to miss one more game. It's early in the week so there's still hope, but be prepared for him to be out again and for Jacquizz Rodgers and Jason Snelling to carry the load in his place. Rodgers might be the preferred of the two as Snelling needed the bye last week to get over a concussion he suffered in week 5.

 

Seattle's Marshawn Lynch was held out of practice today because of a hip injury. Currently, it's expected that Lynch will be fine for Thursday night's game.

 

The Jets placed Mike Goodson on injured reserve because of a torn ACL. This makes the Jets a two headed RBBC with Bilal Powell as the lead RB and Chris Ivory as the change of pace. The situation is still fluid though and if Ivory can stay healthy, I won't be surprised if he and Powell switch places as Powell is the better receiving RB and that was the role Goodson was supposed to be handling. There's also a little bit of a concern about Powell possibly having suffered a shoulder injury week 6, but it didn't prevent him from finishing the game and he is expected to be okay.

 

Detroit's Joique Bell appears to have dodged a bullet as his rib injury is not considered serious. He was unable to finish week 6 because of it, but he is tentatively expected to be okay for his usual backup role week 7. If that prognosis changes though, we could see Mikel Leshoure be the top backup to Reggie Bush week 7. It's uncertain if Theo Riddick is recovered enough from a concussion suffered week 5 to return to action.

 

The Giants waived Da'Rel Scott today. Scott sustained a hamstring injury last Thursday night and was expected to miss several weeks. It's likely he'll clear waivers and get placed on injured reserve. With David Wilson out another few weeks himself, the Giants are down to Brandon Jacobs as their starter. Jacobs is nursing a sore hamstring after carrying a huge load week 6, but he is expected to be fine for week 7. Rookie Michael Cox is expected to play some this week as his change of pace and the Giants are working out free agent RB's with the intent of signing one to provide depth. I would still think they might be willing to trade for a RB even with their 2013 season spiraling down the tubes.

 

 

Wide Receivers

 

Green Bay placed Randall Cobb on the injured reserve/designated for return list today because of the fractured fibula injury he suffered. The earliest Cobb can return is now week 15. With James Jones also uncertain to play week 7 because of a minor knee sprain, Jarrett Boykin could end up starting. Myles White was promoted from the practice squad to be the #4 WR if Jones can play and the #3 if Jones can't. It also won't be a surprise at all if the Packers now become a player in trading for an available WR. The Titans might take a conditional late round pick for Kenny Britt and he could really fit in there. They may even be willing to offer up enough to pry Josh Gordon from the Browns. Gordon's value in Green Bay would be obscene. We'll see how proactive the Packers are in the next 2 weeks. The trade deadline is October 29th.  

 

Atlanta's Roddy White is very uncertain for week 7 because of hamstring and ankle injuries. With Julio Jones gone for the year, Harry Douglas will start and if White can't play it would be either Drew Davis or Kevin Cone taking his place. The Falcons are another team that could be looking to make a trade to acquire a WR this week. They could also go to the street for a veteran free agent.

 

Cecil Shorts is uncertain to play week 7 for Jacksonville because of a sprained sternoclavicular joint. For those who are not doctors, this is where the collarbone meets the top of chest's breastplate. At least I think that's right as I had to look it up. Mike Brown would start if Shorts can't play.  

 

Larry Fitzgerald made it through week 6 despite a hamstring injury. Fitz didn't look too limited by it, but with it being a short week (Arizona plays Seattle Thursday night) expect Fitz to be limited in practices or held out completely and for him to be listed as Questionable. I expect he'll play.

 

Calvin Johnson is likely to be held out of practices this week as he tries to recover from a knee issue. Megatron played week 6 but was clearly limited in both what he could do and in playing time. He isn't believed to have suffered any setbacks, but that's no guarantee he is fine for week 7. Also in Lions WR news, they released Patrick Edwards. Kris Durham has taken over as the starter opposite Megatron.

 

It's unknown if Mike Williams will be able to play this week for the Bucs or not. Williams missed week 6 because of a hamstring injury.

 

Danny Amendola suffered a head injury believed to be a concussion. The Patriots haven't officially termed it that, but it seemed pretty obvious to anyone who saw him after he was hit. Consider Amendola doubtful to play week 7.

 

No word yet on whether Buffalo will have Steve Johnson back week 7 or not. Johnson missed week 6 because of a back injury.

 

The Jets placed Clyde Gates on injured reserve today because of a shoulder injury. His season is done. The team signed Greg Salas off the Eagles practice squad and also signed free agent Josh Cribbs. It's probably a good bet Santonio Holmes isn't close to returning from his hamstring injury.

 

 

Tight Ends

 

The bye week comes at a perfect time for the Saints as Jimmy Graham suffered a foot injury week 6. It's believed to be minor though and the bye week is expected to be enough time for him to be okay when the Saints return week 8.

 

In what has become the daily update I am most sick of making in 2013, there's been no word on whether Rob Gronkowski will play this week or not. Apparently, what's been going on is that the Patriots doctors have cleared him to play, but his independent doctors have told him he's still at risk of the forearm not being completely healed up yet. The back is not considered to be the issue at all anymore; it is the arm he's had surgically repaired a couple of times now in the past year and a half. Expect Gronkowski to practice in limited fashion again this week, be listed as Questionable come Friday on the injury report, and for him to be considered a game time decision.

 

Detroit is expected to be without Tony Scheffler again week 7. Scheffler has a concussion and he has no timetable for return. His absence just means more chances for undrafted rookie Joseph Fauria to get more involved in the Lions offense. Fauria is intriguing as he already is the Lions top red zone target, but could start getting more targets between the 20's. He's someone to keep an eye on going forward in standard leagues and a definite roster acquisition in TD only leagues.

 

 

Kickers

 

Steven Hauschka left Sunday's game temporarily to be checked for a concussion in the 2nd quarter. It was deemed he was okay to return and he finished out the game. Hauschka should be okay for Seattle's Thursday night's game against Arizona.

 

2013 Rushing Fantasy Points Allowed Per Game

 

Thru Week 6

 

Remember the generic formula:
 
*-Total Yards allowed divided by 10 (representing 1 point for every 10 rushing yards allowed)

*-Rushing TD's allowed multiplied by 6 (representing 6 points for every TD allowed)

*-Add the two totals together and divide by number of games played

 

2013 Receiving Fantasy Points Allowed Per Game

 

Thru Week 6

 

Remember the generic formula:

*-Total Yards allowed divided by 10 (representing 1 point for every 10 receiving yards allowed)

*-Receiving TD's allowed multiplied by 6 (representing 6 points for every TD allowed)

*-Add the two totals together and divide by number of games played