Week 15 Player Rankings

QUARTERBACK

1. Drew Brees at MIN

2.  Aaron Rodgers at KC

3. Matthew Stafford at OAK

4. Tom Brady at DEN

5. Tony Romo at TB

6. Cam Newton at HOU

7. Eli Manning vs WAS

8. Tim Tebow vs NE

9. Andy Dalton at STL

10. Carson Palmer vs DET

11. Joe Flacco at SD

12. Michael Vick vs NYJ

13. Rex Grossman at NYG

14. Philip Rivers vs BAL

15. Mark Sanchez at PHI

16. Matt Moore at BUF

17. Jake Locker at IND

18. Ben Roethlisberger at SF

19. TJ Yates vs CAR

20. Christian Ponder vs NO

RUNNING BACK

1. Arian Foster vs CAR

2. Chris Johnson at IND

3. Adrian Peterson vs NO

4. Ray Rice at SD

5. Lesean McCoy vs NYJ

6. Felix Jones at TB

7. Shonn Greene at PHI

8. Marshawn Lynch at CHI

9. Reggie Bush at BUF

10. Cedric Benson at STL

11. Roy Helu at NYG

12. Michael Bush vs DET

13. Beanie Wells vs CLE

14. Steven Jackson vs CIN

15. Ryan Matthews vs BAL

16. Ben Tate vs CAR

17. Willis McGahee vs NE

18. Ryan Grant at KC

19. Ahmad Bradshaw vs WAS

20. Donald Brown vs TEN

21. LeGarrette Blount vs DAL

22. Marion Barber vs SEA

23. Jonathan Stewart at HOU

24. Darren Sproles at MIN

25. Frank Gore vs PIT

26. Kevin Smith at OAK

WIDE RECEIVER

1. Calvin Johnson at OAK

2. Marques Colston at MIN

3. Jordy Nelson at KC

4. Hakeem Nicks vs WAS

5. Wes Welker at DEN

6. Percy Harvin vs NO

7. Miles Austin at TB

8. Larry Fitzgerald vs CLE

9. AJ Green at STL

10. Brandon Marshall at BUF

11. Demaryius Thomas vs NE

12. Steve Smith at HOU

13. Mike Wallace at SF

14. Victor Cruz vs WAS

15. Dwayne Bowe vs GB

16. Dez Bryant at TB

17. Santana Moss at NYG

18. Steve Johnson vs MIA

19. Donald Driver vs KC

20. DeSean Jackson vs NYJ

21. Anquan Boldin at SD

22. Santonio Holmes at PHI

23. Eric Decker vs NE

24. Antonio Brown at SF

25. Nate Washington at IND

26. Laurent Robinson at TB

27. Brandon Lloyd vs CIN

28. Mike Williams vs DAL

29. Jabar Gaffney at NYG

30. Plaxico Burress at PHI

31. Michael Crabtree vs PIT

32. Vincent Jackson vs BAL

33. Jeremy Maclin vs NYJ

34. Robert Meacham at MIN

35. Damian Williams at IND

36. Mario Manningham vs WAS

TIGHT END

1. Rob Gronkowski at DEN

2. Jimmy Graham at MIN

3. Jermichael Finley at KC

4. Jason Witten at TB

5. Brandon Pettigrew at OAK

6. Antonio Gates vs BAL

7. Kellen Winslow vs DAL

8. Brent Celek vs NYJ

9. Owen Daniels vs CAR

10. Jake Ballard vs WAS

11. Aaron Hernandez at DEN

12. Dustin Keller at PHI

13. Vernon Davis vs PIT

14. Anthony Fasano at BUF

15. Greg Olsen at HOU

16. Heath Miller at SF

17. Kevin Boss vs DET

18. Jermaine Gresham at STL

19. Visanthe Shiancoe vs NO

20. Ben Watson at ARI

KICKER

1. David Akers vs PIT

2. Sebastian Janikowski vs DET

3. Stephen Gostkowski at DEN

4. Mason Crosby at KC

5. John Kasay at MIN

6. Dan Bailey at TB

7. Rob Bironas at IND

8. Billy Cundiff at SD

9. Mike Nugent at STL

10. Robbie Gould vs SEA

11. Jason Hanson at OAK

12. Neil Rackers vs CAR

13. Matt Prater vs NE

14. Alex Henery vs NYJ

15. Nick Novak vs BAL

16. Connor Barth vs DAL

17. Nick Folk at PHI

18. Graham Gano at NYG

DEFENSE/SPECIAL TEAMS

1. 49ers vs PIT

2. Ravens at SD

3. Bengals at STL

4. Texans vs CAR

5. Steelers at SF

6. Lions at OAK

7. Cardinals vs CLE

8. Packers at KC

9. Titans at IND

10. Seahawks at CHI

11. Dolphins at BUF

12. Cowboys at TB

13. Jets at PHI

14. Saints at MIN

15. Chargers vs BAL

16. Eagles vs NYJ

Week 15: My Christmas wish list

Dear Santa,
I’ve been a very good (fairly good) boy all year long. My kids made up their Christmas wish list three months ago, but here is mine. I know it’s been a while since I wrote you, but here goes. For Christmas, I would like….
 TV broadcasters to stop telling me how the Eagles can still make the playoffs. For one, they don’t deserve to make it. Second, the chances of it happening are astronomical. Can you see this team winning four in a row? And third, what satisfaction is there in making it to the playoffs knowing you have no shot at winning it all. Don’t give me that baloney that once you are in the playoffs, anybody can win it. You and I both know that ain’t true with this team.
The fat Jonah Hill back. He looks super creepy as a thin guy and everyone knows that fat guys are funnier than skinny guys. Come back into the fold, Jonah. We won’t begrudge you.
All my old Star Wars toys back. My grandmother sold them all when I went to college, but now my son is a fanatic and that is all he wants for Christmas. My Rancor and AT-AT are out there somewhere. Come home.
Tim Tebow to make the Super Bowl. Can you imagine what that week leading up to the game would be like?
Some love for running backs. I understand it is the year of the uber-quarterback, with Rodgers, Brees and Brady all setting records. But there is no position more grueling than starting NFL tailback. For a guy to make it through all 16 games healthy is a near miracle. Three weeks to go and there are only a handful who can say they’ve done it all year long as the premiere guy: Shady McCoy, Ray Rice, MJD, Michael Turner, and Chris Johnson.
The Robyn CD. I want to learn to dance like this.
Advance tickets to “GI Joe 2.” The first was one of the worst movies I have ever seen in my life. But I just can’t quit you, Joe. Plus, this one has Lady Jaye in it! Yo Joe!
A good Thursday night game. NFL network wants you to pay extra to watch, but then they give us Jacksonville, Cleveland, Indianapolis? If it weren’t for my addiction to the Redzone, I’d say buh-bye.
 A rainy, miserable Sunday. I feel terrible about myself at the end of each NFL Sunday when I realized I just sat on my living room couch for 12 hours, while it was a beautiful day outside. Scarlett Johansson could be in my backyard jumping on a trampoline at 1 p.m. this Sunday and I wouldn’t make it out there to see. Sad.

Jimmy Darmody back on “Boardwalk Empire.” Nucky, how could you?
An updated version of “Double Dare.” That show rocked and you know it.
An Eagles win over the Jets. I know this contradicts wish No. 1, but to be able to ruin the hopes and dreams of all the Jets mongoloids out there would make me a happy man.
A pox on Andre Johnson. You are officially on my “do not ever draft again” list. Thanks for nothing.
A fantasy championship for each and every one of you. The fantasy playoffs are here! Rejoice and revel in all its glory.

Put ’em in!
QB: Jake Locker vs IND: If you are in the playoffs, chances are you have a stud at QB like Rodgers or Brees. But if you happen to be in a two QB league, Locker is as good a play as you will find this week. He showed some serious gumption last week against a good Houston defense, throwing for one score and running in another on an amazingly athletic play. Still no word on if old man Hasselbeck is going to play, but against a repugnant Colts defense, Locker would be a solid play if you are in a pinch.
RB1: Felix Jones vs TB: I knew all along that Felix would get his job back! Demarco Murray’s run for Rookie of the Year was snapped, literally and figuratively, against the Giants. Felix looked fresh and has to be salivating at the chance to run against the lowly Bucs defense. Most TD’s allowed to RB’s. Fourth most yards allowed to RB’s. And nobody to vulture carries.
RB2: Roy Helu at NYG: My love for Roy Helu continues. Three straight 100 yard rushing games. Now up to 29th in scoring among all RB’s, despite barely playing in 6 games this season. Mike Shanahan should be fired on principle for not giving this guy the gig in week one.
WR1: Demaryius Thomas vs NE: Thomas has been hit or miss most of this year, but the last two weeks things seem to have clicked. Tim Tebow is finally looking his way as the first option (20 targets over that span). Plus, the wretched Pats secondary is coming to town. A picture perfect late season flyer.
WR2: Dwayne Bowe vs GB: Whether it is Tyler Palko or rookie Ricky Stanzi under center this weekend, the Chiefs will be playing from behind. Way behind. Bowe snaps his eight-game scoreless streak for those of you who held on to him through thick and thin.
WR3: Robert Meacham at MIN: Just a hunch, but I think Meacham will burn this decrepit secondary for a long one. Nobody gives up WR touchdowns like your Minnesota Vikings.
TE: Tony Gonzalez vs JAX: The only tight end hotter than Tony G is the inhuman Rob Gronkowski. Gonzalez has six or more catches in five straight games and now goes up against the Jags, who have allowed more tight end receptions than anyone else in the league.
D/ST: Seahawks at CHI: The Hawks have been one of those sneaky good fantasy plays all year. They’ve scored two weeks in a row and now get to face off against Caleb Hanie and Marion Barber III. Good times.

Take ’em out!
QB: Michael Vick vs NYJ:  You get the feeling Vick finally got the hint about running without abandon. Only nine yards rushing in his first game back from injury. But if Vick is going to be of value this week, it will be on the ground. The Jets have allowed just 12 TD’s through the air this year, second behind only Baltimore.
RB1: Rashard Mendenhall at SF: The numbers continue to amaze. Still no rushing TD’s allowed. Only 728 yards gained by opposing RB’s, which is 247 less than the next closest team. Throw in the fact that Mendenhall has been less than stellar and you’ve got a wrong matchup at the wrong time.
RB2: CJ Spiller vs MIA: The Dolphins allowed Shady McCoy to score two short TD’s last week, which doubled their season total allowed to RB’s. The Bills will have to win this game through the air, which means they won’t win.
WR1: Vincent Jackson vs BAL: Tough matchup for V-Jax, but no guts, no glory. Sure, he’s been a top 10 fantasy WR, but not against this defense, allowing the fewest QB points and 6th fewest WR points. Just one TD allowed by a wideout in the last five games.
WR2: Pierre Garcon vs TEN: Garcon has scored touchdowns in three different games this year. In the other 10, he is averaging 4 receptions and 43 yards per game.  Not worth the risk.
WR3: Mario Manningham vs WAS: The Skins secondary is solid, allowing just seven WR touchdowns all year. They even held the Patriots wideouts in check, for the most part. Manningham has been bounced to the clear cut No. 3 man in the rotation. Victor Cruz and Hakeem Nicks each saw twice as much action last week.
TE: Jermaine Gresham at STL: Another statistical anomaly. The Rams give up the seventh most RB points and the fifth most WR points, but are the stingiest team in the league against tight ends. They are No. 1 in receptions against (40), yards against (374) and touchdowns against (1). Doesn’t get much weirder than that, but the numbers never lie.
D/ST: Denver vs NE: A top 10 fantasy defense, you should probably look elsewhere, at least for this week. Denver’s impressive streak has come against just one team that can be considered an above average offense (San Diego). The last time they played an elite offense, Detroit in week 8, they surrendered 45 points.
Be sure to tune in to the fantasy football show on Z88.9 FM this Friday night at 7 p.m. For two full hours we’ll break down every game for this week’s huge fantasy playoffs. And if you need any fantasy advice, drop us a line at fantasyfootballonz889@hotmail.com.We’ll answer your questions live on the air.

Week 14: November showers bring December flowers

November showers bring December flowers: That doesn’t quite have the ring to it that we are used to, eh?

A degree in journalism does not a poet make.

Anyway, it is playoff time and just like every other season, there are some late bloomers and some wilted flowers out on the front lawn.

Let’s first go with the good guys. The guys who five weeks ago might have been on the waiver wire, but now might be earning you a trophy.

• Brett Favre, Wrangler University — Favre could put on helmet and start for 12 teams this weekend and they would all have a better chance at winning than they do right now. Either he is being blackballed or he really, really doesn’t want to play anymore.
• Donald Brown, Indianapolis — Touchdowns in back-to -back weeks. More than 14 carries in four straight games. Dan Orlovsky at least looked like he knew what a football was, compared to Curtis Painter. With the RB carnage of the past month, you could do worse than Brown.
• Roy Helu, Washington — For once, Mike Shanahan told the truth. Helu is the main man in the Redskins backfield and he has three good matchups coming up (New England, Giants, Minnesota). 46 carries over the last two games plus 7 receptions. Yummy.
•  Roddy White, Atlanta — White wasn’t on the waiver wire, but you might have given thought to the idea. He’s been targeted 127 times, but nearly half of those have gone incomplete (59). White had just three touchdowns over the first 10 weeks, but now has scored in both games 11 and 12. Matt Ryan keeps on chucking the ball up to him and Carolina, Jacksonville and New Orleans are on the horizon.
• Michael Crabtree, San Francisco: Through week 5, Crabtree had 14 receptions for 132 yards. Boot city. Since then, Crabtree has come alive and last week’s long touchdown showed the spark we’ve been waiting for: 17 catches for 270 over the last three.
• Mike Williams, Tampa Bay — The Tampa quarterback situation is an abomination, but Williams is the only game in town. He has 18 catches on 31 targets over the last three games. Two scores and Jacksonville, Dallas and Carolina on the horizon.
• Anthony Fasano, Miami — Fasano has outscored the likes of Brandon Pettigrew, Aaron Hernandez, Owen Daniels and Dustin Keller over the last five games. Neither of the next two opponents, Eagles nor Bills, defend the tight end very well.

Now, those who are wilting away.

• Matt Hasselbeck —Tennessee: Two touchdowns in four games, while throwing for no more than 219 yards in any of them. Chris Johnson may be back, but now the Titans have to deal with a dead fish at QB.
• Frank Gore, San Francisco: The Niners keep winning, but it’s not because of Gore. He is clearly wearing down, as evidenced by his 3.3 YPC over the last three games, two of which were against St. Louis and Arizona, two teams that are not known for stopping anybody. Gore hasn’t scored since week 8 and now that they have clinched, the Niners might give him a decent chunk of rest.
• James Starks, Green Bay: He wasn’t s superstar in the first place, but now Starks isn’t even getting the bulk of the carries. With 62 rushing yards in his last three games and zero catches over his last two; See ya!
• Early Doucet, Arizona: For a brief moment, Doucet was a viable WR3 in your league. No longer.
• Vincent Brown, San Diego: See Doucet, Early.
• Jason Hill, Jacksonville: In week 5, Hill caught five passes for 118 yards and a touchdown. Since, he has 13 receptions for 157 yards. He should not be on your team.
• Owen Daniels, Houston: If you are in a PPR league, you might be OK with Owen. Otherwise, you are ready to string him up. One game over 35 yards in his last five. No touchdowns since the first weekend in October. Be free!

Put ’em in

(Dedicated to Marshawn Lynch who loves his candy)

QB: Rex Grossman vs NE: The Redskins are going to be down, probably in a big way. The Patriots have become the kings of garbage points. Vince Young has 400 yards and a touchdown. Dan Orlovsky has 353 yards and two scores. Don’t even bother watching the first three quarters. Just wait until the fourth and watch the points roll in. (Airheads)

RB1: Reggie Bush vs PHI: Two teams headed in opposite directions. The Dolphins want to win, the Eagles don’t know how to. Bush carried a season high 22 times last week and is showing no signs of wearing down. (Gummy Worms)

RB2: Mark Ingram at TEN: Ingram looks better now than he did before his week 7 injury. Titans have been giving up big yardage on the ground in recent weeks. If CJ Spiller can run on you, than anybody can. (Bottlecaps)

WR1: Nate Burleson vs MIN: The Vikings secondary might be worse than anybody’s, mainly due to injury. With the looks that opposing defenses are giving Megatron, Burleson just needs to take advantage of all his one on one matchups. (Hot Tamales)

WR2: Darius Heyward-Bey at GB: The Packers don’t care about defending wide receivers. Why bother when you’ve got Aaron Rodgers to bail you out every week? 18 targets over the last two weeks. Hopefully Moore and Ford will remain out, giving Darius room to roam. (Pop Rocks)

WR3: Golden Tate vs STL: Nobody packs in a season like the St. Louis Rams. With Sidney Rice out, Tate has become the clear No. 1. He was on the field for 51 snaps last week. Compare that to Doug Baldwin with 12 and Ben Obamanu with 8. (Good and Plenty)

TE: Dustin Keller vs KC: Keller has been hit or miss most of the season but this week should be a positive. The Chiefs give up the fifth most points to opposing tight ends and nobody has given up more tight end TD’s. Keller only caught three balls last week, but was still targeted six times. (Pixy Stix)

D/ST: Seattle vs STL: Tom Brandstater on the road. Case closed. (Spree)

Take ’em out

QB: Andy Dalton vs HOU: Hopefully the Red Rifle Express isn’t bottoming out. But he has more turnovers in the last three weeks than TD’s. The Texans allow the second fewest QB points in the league. (Red Hots)

RB1: Beanie Wells vs SF: The streak is alive! Still no rushing TD’s allowed by the 49ers. Wells rushed for just 33 yards earlier this season in San Francisco. The Niners will make Kevin Kolb beat them. Just ask Cowboy fans how that feels. (Circus Peanuts)

RB2: Peyton Hillis at PIT: Hillis has been completely irrelevant in terms of fantasy this season. He has scored in just one game (way back in week two) and has yet to have a 100 yard day. The Pittsburgh defense looked like its old self last weekend, which is bad news for all us Steeler haters. (Necco Wafers)

WR1: Santonio Holmes vs KC: The Chiefs have been playing some good defense. Take out the New England game and they have given up just 33 total points in their last three games. They have allowed just two TD’s to wide receivers in their last six games. (Goobers)

WR2: Antonio Brown vs CLE: I told you to play Brown last week and he got you a TD. Now, I’m telling you to sit him against the team giving up the fewest WR points in the league. Do as you’re told. (Junior Mints)

WR3: Andre Johnson at CIN: He will not play this week. Sorry to break the news to you. (Nerds)

TE: Fred Davis vs the whizzinator: Davis has been suspended for the final four games of the season for failing multiple drug tests. Didn’t he ever see “The Program?” (Dum Dums)

D/ST: Titans vs NO: The Titans have been one of the best plays at the position all year long, but look closer. They have allowed 229 points on the year, but have not faced many elite offenses. In their two games against above average offenses (Pittsburgh and Houston), Tennessee gave up 79 combined points. What category do the Saints fall under? (Abba Zabba)

This week’s fantasy football show will air on Friday at 7 p.m. on Z88.9 on your FM dial. Or listen on-line at www.z889.org. Have any fantasy football questions? E-mail us at fantasyfootballonz889@hotmail.com. We’ll answer them live on the air.

Week 13 Player Rankings

Don’t forget! Tune in to Z88.9 FM Sunday from noon to kickoff for the fantasy football show. And e-mail your last minute lineup questions to fantasyfootballonz889@hotmail.com. We’ll read them live on the air!

QUARTERBACK

1. Aaron Rodgers at NYG

2. Drew Brees vs DET

3. Cam Newton at TB

4. Tom Brady vs IND

5. Tony Romo at ARI

6. Matthew Stafford at NO

7. Eli Manning vs GB

8. Matt Ryan at HOU

9. Tim Tebow at MIN

10. Carson Palmer at MIA

11. Matt Moore vs OAK

12. Ben Roethlisberger vs CIN

13. Ryan Fitzpatrick vs TEN

14. Mark Sanchez at WAS

15. Philip Rivers at JAX

16. Matt Hasselbeck at BUF

17. Andy Dalton at PIT

18. Joe Flacco at CLE

19. TJ Yates vs ATL

20. Alex Smith vs STL

RUNNING BACK

1. Matt Forte vs KC

2. Ray Rice at CLE

3. LeGarrette Blount vs CAR

4. Frank Gore vs STL

5. DeMarco Murray at ARI

6. Arian Foster vs ATL

7. Maurice Jones Drew vs SD

8. Michael Turner at HOU

9. Benjarvus Green-Ellis vs IND

10. Michael Bush at MIA

11. Reggie Bush vs OAK

12. Rashard Mendenhall vs CIN

13. Darren Sproles vs DET

14. Beanie Wells vs DAL

15. Willis McGahee at MIN

16. Jonathan Stewart at TB

17. Chris Johnson at BUF

18. Mark Ingram vs DET

19. Roy Helu vs NYJ

20. Kevin Smith vs NO

21. CJ Spiller vs TEN

22. Ryan Matthews at JAX

23. Brandon Jacobs vs GB

24. Cedric Benson at PIT

WIDE RECEIVER

1. Calvin Johnson at NO

2. Hakeem Nicks vs GB

3. Wes Welker vs IND

4. Greg Jennings at NYG

5. Steve Smith at TB

6. Brandon Marshall vs OAK

7. Victor Cruz vs GB

8. Laurent Robinson at ARI

9. Larry Fitzgerald vs DAL

10. Marques Colston vs DET

11. Vincent Jackson at JAX

12. Brandon Lloyd at SF

13. Percy Harvin vs DEN

14. Antonio Brown vs CIN

15. Jordy Nelson at NYG

16. Roddy White at HOU

17. Dez Bryant at ARI

18. Mike Williams vs CAR

19. Steve Johnson vs TEN

20. Mike Wallace vs CIN

21. Andre Johnson vs ATL

22. Dwayne Bowe at CHI

23. AJ Green at PIT

24. Eric Decker at MIN

25. Darrius Heyward-Bey at MIA

26. Deion Branch vs IND

27. Julio Jones at HOU

28. Lance Moore vs DET

29. Reggie Wayne at NE

30. Santonio Holmes at WAS

31. Michael Crabtree vs STL

32. Damian Williams at BUF

33. Plaxico Burress at WAS

34. Anquan Boldin at CLE

35. Johnny Knox vs KC

36. Pierre Garcon at NE

TIGHT END

1. Rob Gronkowski vs IND

2. Jimmy Graham vs DET

3. Jason Witten at ARI

4. Antonio Gates at JAX

5. Jermichael Finley at NYG

6. Aaron Hernandez vs IND

7. Fred Davis vs NYJ

8. Kellen Winslow vs CAR

9. Vernon Davis vs STL

10. Tony Gonzalez at HOU

11. Greg Olsen at TB

12. Jermaine Gresham at PIT

13. Owen Daniels vs ATL

14. Brandon Pettigrew at NO

15. Jake Ballard vs GB

16. Scott Chandler vs TEN

17. Dustin Keller at WAS

18. Jared Cook at BUF

19. Heath Miller vs CIN

20. Visanthe Shiancoe vs DEN

KICKER

1. Dan Bailey at ARI

2. Sebastian Janikowski at MIA

3. David Akers vs STL

4. John Kasay vs DET

5. Matt Bryant at HOU

6. Neil Rackers vs ATL

7. Mason Crosby at NYG

8. Jason Hanson at NO

9. Robbie Gould vs KC

10. Stephen Gostkowski vs IND

11. Nick Novak at JAX

12. Rob Bironas at BUF

DEFENSE/SPECIAL TEAMS

1. Baltimore at CLE

2. San Francisco vs STL

3. New England vs IND

4. Chicago vs KC

5. NY Jets at WAS

6. Dallas at ARI

7. Denver at MIN

8. Houston vs ATL

9. Tennessee at BUF

10. Pittsburgh vs CIN

11. Green Bay at NYG

12. Jacksonville vs SD

Week 13: Let’s get weird

I’m dedicating this week’s post to two of my favorite new TV shows, “American Horror Story” and “Workaholics”. You should be watching both. Just sayin’.
So as my man Adam would say, “Let’s get weird!”
Laurent Robinson, a guy who was on waivers in most leagues for the first six weeks of the season, has more touchdowns (7) than Steve Smith (5), Mike Wallace (6), Larry Fitzgerald (6), Brandon Marshall (3), Roddy White (4) or Hakeem Nicks (4).
All seven of Robinson’s touchdowns have come in the last five weeks. Miles Austin is supposed to be back this weekend — we’ll see if he gets the Felix Jones treatment or not.
Neither Steve Johnson nor Dez Bryant has had a 100-yard receiving day yet this year.
Beanie Wells’ eight rushing touchdowns trail only Adrian Peterson and LeSean McCoy among RB’s.
Kenny Britt hasn’t played since week three and he only played 9 quarters of football all season before his knee disintegrated. Yet his 60 fantasy points are still better than a number of wide receivers who have played every single snap of every single game. Greg Little (58). Harry Douglas (57). Mike Thomas (53). Oh what could have been.
Antonio Brown is 16th in the league in receiving yards (707), yet he has just one touchdown and his longest catch of the year went for just 34 yards. Brown has just two red zone receptions all season long.
Tampa Bay’s Mike Williams has 52 receptions on 98 targets! Either he has feet for hands or Josh Freeman is worse than anyone ever thought. His longest catch of the year has gone for a whopping 23 yards.
John Skelton has played in nine games in his professional career. Against the Eagles several weeks ago, Skelton threw for 315 yards and three touchdowns. In his other eight games, Skelton has combined to throw three touchdowns and eclipsed 200 yards passing just once, in a game that went into overtime.
Rex Grossman has thrown more touchdowns than interceptions just twice in eight games started.
With Rob Gronkowski and Jimmy Graham, we are seeing history in the making at the tight end position. Both could break multiple records if they keep up their current pace.
The single season yardage mark by a tight end is currently held by Kellen Winslow Sr., who amassed 1,290 in 1980. Gronkowski is on pace for 1,256 yards, Graham is on pace for 1392.
The single season record for tight end touchdowns is 13, shared by Vernon Davis and Antonio Gates. Gronkowski already has 12 with five games to play. Graham has 8.
Tony Gonzalez holds the single season record for most receptions by a tight end, 102 in 2004. Graham is currently on pace to haul in 98 catches, Gronkowski 87.
Everyone loves to rip Rex Grossman for being a turnover machine, but Philip Rivers has been getting a pass. Rivers leads the league with a whopping 21 giveaways (17 interceptions, four fumbles). Even Cam Newton, who has rushed the ball 86 times, has lost two fumbles all year.
More evidence that Mike Shanahan is insane. Ryan Torain has been given 55 carries and only able to garner 192 yards on the ground. Roy Helu has rushed just 19 more times, but put up nearly twice as many yards. Plus, Helu has 38 receptions — Torain 4. I don’t care if Helu couldn’t block Christina Aguilera from a buffet line, he needs to be the featured guy.
Chad Ochocinco has been targeted 23 times all season long, in one of the most pass-heavy offenses in the league. That’s the same number of targets as Bernard Berrian, who has been working at Jiffy Lube since October. Chad is still owned in nearly 20 percent of all leagues. Now that is weird!

Put ’em in
QB: Tim Tebow at MIN: I’m not going to get into the whole Tebow thing, I’m just going to give you some stats. Minnesota gives up more QB points than any other team. They’ve allowed 22 touchdown passes and made just six INT’s. They don’t have an interception since week 5. The Vikings signed Eagles cast-off Jarrad Page this week and were happy about it!
RB1: LeGarrette Blount vs. CAR: After a slow start, Blount seems to be rounding into shape, much like he did in his rookie year. Back to back 100 yard games, but what gets me even more excited is the fact that he caught a career high three passes last week. The Panthers give up more points to RB’s than any other team, which includes 5-100 yard games and touchdowns to opposing running backs in 9 of 11 games.
RB2: Reggie Bush vs. OAK: Bush saw his TD streak end at three games last week, but it’s still clear he is the goal line back in MIA. But what I like best about this matchup is Bush out of the backfield. The Raiders have given up 527 receiving yard to running backs this year, fourth worst in the league.
WR1: Ben Obamanu vs. PHI: A funny thing has happened over the last several weeks. The Eagles have started playing the run well (Matt Forte the only big game allowed since week 5), but at the same time, their secondary has gone to pot. Sidney Rice is out with a concussion, leaving Ben Obamanu as the man with the plan. Looking at this Seattle team, I have no idea how they have won a single game.
WR2: Nate Burleson at NO: Calvin Johnson owners have got to love getting the garbage time Thanksgiving touchdown, but also should be worried. Teams know they can’t let Megatron beat them and he is getting double and even triple covered. You saw what Victor Cruz did against the Saints as the number two WR. I guarantee a touchdown for big Nate.
WR3: Michael Crabtree vs. STL: Crabtree is the best option the Niners have, which isn’t saying much. But he has had 9+ targets in four of the last six games. And the Rams can’t stop any wide receivers (unless John Skelton is throwing the ball).
TE: Jermichael Finley at NYG: One of the biggest disappointments on the year. Take out the Chicago game in week 3 and Finley has 29 catches, 428 yards and two touchdowns. After starting the season off as one of the best defenses against the tight end, the Giants have gone in the dumper the last four weeks. Five tight end touchdowns allowed in four games and 33 receptions for 395 yards in that same span.
D/ST: Patriots vs. IND: After starting the season as one of the worst defenses, the Pats have turned things up these last three weeks. 13 points per game, 10 sacks, 7 forced turnovers and now Dan Orlovsky. Good times.

Take ’em out
QB: Joe Flacco at CLE: It would be easy to say Colt McCoy, but you know that already. The team that has allowed the second fewest passing TD’s? Your Cleveland Browns! Is it because they are so pathetic against the run? No doubt. But that’s good enough reason to sit the former Green Waver in week 13.
RB1: Arian Foster vs. ATL: You know you aren’t going to take out Arian Foster. I know you aren’t going to take out Arian Foster. But this is going to be a bumpy one. Reason  No. 1: TJ Yates. God only knows. Reason No. 2: Atlanta’s run D has been spectacular, yet to allow a 100-yard rusher this year. Foster is the best runner they have seen since LeSean McCoy in week 2, so we’ll find out this weekend if they are for real or not.
RB2: Toby Gerhart vs. DEN: AP is expected to miss another game, meaning we have to watch the Great White Wonder do his thing once again. Gerhart found the endzone last week, but was unspectacular, averaging 2.6 ypc. Denver has allowed just one rushing TD by a RB all year long.
WR1: Andre Johnson vs. ATL: Now this Texan you might actually consider benching. Soon to be fired head coach Gary Kubiak said last week that Johnson still is not up to game speed, which was evident by his 2 catch, 22 yard barnburner. TJ Yates yo. TJ Yates.
WR2: Dwayne Bowe at CHI: Bowe is getting a ridiculous amount of targets (10 per game over the last 7 weeks), but unfortunately he has gotten Palko’d. Despite all those looks, Bowe hasn’t scored since week 5. The Bears are playing for their playoff lives and know they will have to win with defense and Forte. Until Orton gets the nod, Bowe is a borderline start.
WR3: Vincent Brown at JAX: Can you believe that the Jaguars give up the second fewest WR points in the league? Brown had an opportunity to take the WR2 job and run with it, but instead he put up two clunkers (four combined catches for 58 yards, despite 14 targets). Malcom Floyd could be back this week and he should have no problem reclaiming his job.
TE: Tony Gonzalez at HOU: Linebackers Demeco Ryans and Brian Cushing have been doing a number on tight ends all season long. The Texans allow the third fewest tight end points and their 36 receptions allowed are the second best in the league. Gonzalez has been hot lately (nine catches on nine targets last week), but week 13 could be a dud.
D/ST: Lions at NO: One of the best early season defenses has hit the skids over the last two games and there is no reason to think that will end on their trip to New Orleans. Not having their best pass rusher to stomp the mole off of Drew Brees’ face won’t help either.
Remember to tune in to Z88.9 on your FM dial this and every Sunday at 12 noon for the fantasy show. You can listen online at www.z889.com. Also, e-mail us your fantasy football questions at fantasyfootballonz889@hotmail.com. We’ll answer them live on the air.  

FOURTH AND INCHES WEEK 12 RANKINGS

Quarterback

1. Tom Brady at PHI

2. Cam Newton at IND

3. Drew Brees vs NYG

4. Ben Roethlisberger at KC

5. Matt Ryan vs MIN

6. Vince Young vs NE

7. Eli Manning at NO

8. Sam Bradford vs ARI

9. Tim Tebow at SD

10. Christian Ponder at ATL

11. Carson Palmer vs CHI

12. Andy Dalton vs CLE

13. Philip Rivers vs DEN

14. Matt Hasselbeck vs TB

15. Mark Sanchez vs BUF

16. Matt Leinart at JAX

17. Rex Grossman at SEA

18. Josh Freeman at TEN

19. Curtis Painter vs CAR

20. Caleb Hanie at OAK

RUNNING BACK

1. Arian Foster at JAX

2. Matt Forte at OAK

3. Rashard Mendenhall at KC

4. Lesean McCoy vs NE

5. Chris Johnson vs TB

6. Michael Turner vs MIN

7. LeGarrette Blount at TEN

8. Marshawn Lynch vs WAS

9. Steven Jackson vs ARI

10. Maurice Jones-Drew vs HOU

11. Cedric Benson vs CLE

12. Beanie Wells at STL

13. Michael Bush vs CHI

14. Willis McGahee at SD

15. Darren Sproles vs NYG

16. Shonn Greene vs BUF

17. Donald Brown vs CAR

18. Benjarvus Green-Ellis at PHI

19. Ryan Matthews vs DEN

20. Jonathan Stewart at IND

21. CJ Spiller at NYJ

22. Toby Gerhart at ATL

23. Mike Tolbert vs DEN

24. Roy Helu at SEA

WIDE RECEIVER

1. Steve Smith at IND

2. Wes Welker at PHI

3. Larry Fitzgerald at STL

4. Roddy White vs MIN

5. Mike Wallace at KC

6. Brandon Lloyd vs ARI

7. Hakeem Nicks at NO

8. Andre Johnson at JAX

9. Santonio Holmes vs BUF

10. Marques Colston vs NYG

11. DeSean Jackson vs NE

12. Percy Harvin at ATL

13. Antonio Brown at KC

14. Vincent Jackson vs DEN

15. Victor Curz at NO

16. Eric Decker at SD

17. Julio Jones vs MIN

18. Santana Moss at SEA

19. Mike Williams at TEN

20. AJ Green vs CLE

21. Dwayne Bowe vs PIT

22. Pierre Garcon vs CAR

23. Damian Williams vs TB

24. Vincent Brown vs DEN

25. Plaxico Burress vs BUF

26. Riley Cooper vs NE

27. Steve Johnson at NYJ

28. Deion Branch at PHI

29. Darrius Heyward-Bey vs CHI

30. Nate Washington vs TB

31. Earl Bennett at OAK

32. Brandon LaFell at IND

33. Lance Moore vs NYG

34. Jerome Simpson vs CLE

35. Reggie Wayne vs CAR

36. Sidney Rice vs WAS

TIGHT END

1. Rob Gronkowski at PHI

2. Jimmy Graham vs NYG

3. Aaron Hernandez at PHI

4. Antonio Gates vs DEN

5. Tony Gonzalez vs MIN

6. Jermaine Gresham vs CLE

7. Brent Celek vs NE

8. Fred Davis at SEA

9. Heath Miller at KC

10. Jacob Tamme vs CAR

11. Greg Olsen at IND

12. Owen Daniels at JAX

13. Kellen Winslow at TEN

14. Jared Cook vs TB

15. Jake Ballard at NO

KICKER

1. Neil Rackers at JAX

2. John Kasay vs NYG

3. Stephen Gostkowski at NE

4. Shaun Suisham at KC

5. Robbie Gould at OAK

6. Sebastian Janikowski vs CHI

7. Nick Novak vs DEN

8. Matt Bryant vs MIN

9. Josh Scobee vs HOU

10. Olindo Mare at IND

11. Ryan Longwell at ATL

12. Josh Brown vs ARI

DEFENSE/SPECIAL TEAMS

1. Steelers at KC

2. Texans at JAX

3. Jets vs BUF

4. Bengals vs CLE

5. Bears at OAK

6. Broncos at SD

7. Falcons vs MIN

8. Seahawks vs WAS

9. Redskins at SEA

10. Rams vs ARI

11. Raiders vs CHI

12. Titans vs TB

Week 12: Rejoice With Some NBA Action!

It’s a short week with a trio of NFL games having been played on Thanksgiving Day, but on the other hand, the bye weeks are thankfully over and done with.

But before we get to the football talk, I felt it necessary to take a quick K-turn. The NBA announced they have reached a labor deal, meaning the abbreviated season will begin on Christmas Day.

If you’ve never been a part of an NBA fantasy league, I suggest you give it a try. (How else are you going to get your competition fix between December and April?)

Without fantasy, I could care less about the NBA. The games are often hard to watch and there are so many bad teams. If you happen to be a fan of one of those bad teams (Sixers, cough), then you are staring at roughly 50 games during a regular season between dreck and muck.

That is where fantasy comes in to play. Don’t know who Andris Biedrins or Tyrus Thomas is? (Please refrain from saying ‘no and I’m glad I don’t). Join a fantasy league and you’ll look forward to checking the boxscore of the Hawks v Warriors game.

More good news: The new labor agreement will make NBA fantasy even that much more fun.

One of the big turnoffs of watching the NBA is seeing guys dogging it, one or two years into a seven year guaranteed contract.

It’s also infuriating seeing guys who are mediocre at what they do, getting paid boatloads of money.

To win in the NBA, you need superstars. You don’t need mid-level exceptions earning $8 million a year to play 6 minutes a game (Luke Walton, come on down!).

 You also don’t need guys who are good, but not great, earning $19 million a year. (Joe Johnson, I’m calling you out!)

It sounds as if the new labor agreement will put an end to that.

Not to dwell on poor Luke, but he’s scheduled to earn $5.68 million this year. Kobe Bryant will earn $25.2 million. Is Kobe 5 times better or more valuable than Luke? Unless you are mama Walton, your answer will be yes. In fact, Kobe is 10 times more valuable. So pay him accordingly. I have no doubt that the Luke’s of the world will be able to scrape by on $1-2 million a year.

Some tips to make your NBA fantasy league as fun as possible:

Make technical fouls a good thing: Dwight Howard led the league last year with 18 technical fouls. He would be a first round pick regardless. But did you know that Andray Blatche had 11? Did you know that Andray Blatche was an actual person? Give away points for technical fouls and then grab the rough and tumble Wizards forward.

Give bonus points when a team wins: Then Cleveland plays Minnesota, you’ll be extra happy when rebound machine Kevin Love leads his team to a win. It’s like gambling, but not. But is.

Five point bonus each week based on your players hairstyles: The NBA is loaded with hideous hair, so why not make it a contest. Got Tyler Hansborough and his bowl cut? Bonus! Anderson Varejao? Bonus! Andrew Bogut? Double bonus!

Make turnovers a good thing: I never understood why you should lose points if your guy turns the ball over. He’s just trying to make a play! Why punish a guy for effort? I’m not saying you give out points for turnovers, but don’t make them a negative.

Buzzer beaters: If your player makes a buzzer beater from beyond mid-court, 25 points. It happens a handful of times a season…why not make it a true milestone? If I made a shot from the opposing free throw line, I’d want more than 3 points. MTV Rock and Jock got this one right.

Even if you are not a fan of the NBA, give NBA fantasy a shot. You might end up becoming a convert. Lord knows the league could use the fans.

On to the NFL!

PUT’EM IN!

QB: Vince Young vs NE: The Pats have come out and stated the obvious. Their goal this week is to contain Shady McCoy. That leaves the game in VY’s Cristal loving hands. New England gives up the third most fantasy points to QB’s and the most points to WR’s. Even without Jeremy Maclin, Young should put up a bushel of points.

RB1: Chris Johnson vs TB: The Bucs have fallen apart against the run. CJ2.9YPC keeps getting delicious matchups and doing little with them. He’s killed you all year long, but you’ve got to ride him until he is dead and buried. The Bucs have allowed a RB touchdown in six straight games and are catching the Panthers in worst rush defense.

RB2: Donald Brown vs Panthers: Joe Addai practiced on Friday, but is still listed as questionable. Joe Addai wants nothing more than this season to be over. Brown, on the other hand, has taken over as the lead back in Addai’s absence. The Panthers are allergic to tackling guys who run with the ball, so this could be the one week you can get some points out of DB.

WR1: Percy Harvin at ATL: Adrian Peterson is out, but I think Harvin might end up with more rushing yards than Toby Gerhart. Harvin has carried 28 times on the year, averaging 8 yards per rush. Harvin has yet to gain 100 yards receiving in any single game, but he could easily get 100 yards combined this week.

WR2: Vincent Brown vs DEN: Champ Bailey is still a shutdown corner and should be focused on Vincent Jackson this week. That leaves Brown, who let down a lot of owners last week with his 1 catch performance. Rookie receivers are always sketchy, but this is a good spot for the youngster.

WR3: Santana Moss at SEA: Back after missing four games with a hand injury. He should instantly return to being Rex Grossman’s favorite target (not sure if that is actually a good thing or not). The Jabar Gaffney ride is officially over.

TE: Heath Miller at KC: Can you believe that the Chiefs will be on primetime for the 2^nd straight week? Gotta like Miller against the team giving up the third most tight end points. Anthony Fasano scored twice on them!

D/ST: Steelers at KC: Not to beat a dead horse, but Tyler Palko last week looked like a right handed person trying to throw a ball with their left hand. The Steelers have actually been a pretty lousy fantasy defense this year (only 1 TD), but this week will change all that.

TAKE’EM OUT!

QB: Matt Leinart vs HOU: The Texans are saying all the right things, trying to keep the pressure off of Leinart. But this week will be the Arian Foster show. The Jags hold QB’s to the 7^th fewest points and have nearly as many interceptions (10) as TD passes allowed (12).

RB1: Ahmad Bradshaw at NO: In one of the biggest games of the year for the G-Men, Bradshaw remains out. The Giants’ running game has come to a screeching halt without him and it will have to wait one more week to get back on track.

RB2: Kevin Smith vs himself: I know Smith played on Thanksgiving Day, but if you watched the game, you also know that he got hurt. There is a reason this guy was serving me a chalupa at Taco Bell one month ago. He’s just way too injury prone. I suggested you pick him up last week and it worked out for some of you. But he’s not durable enough to be a number one guy. Sorry to burst your bubble.

WR1: Steve Johnson vs BUF: I’ve officially given up on Stevie J. I own him in several leagues, but he has become unstartable. The Darrelle Revis matchup only makes it worse. Johnson put up 80 yards on Revis in their first matchup this year, but I could care less. Ryan Fitzpatrick is showing the world why the only college that wanted him was Harvard.

WR2:  AJ Green vs JAX: Joe Haden, shut down corner. He’s done an amazing job all year long. Throw in the fact that Green is coming off an injury and this is one of the very few weeks that Green gets benched.

WR3: Sidney Rice vs WAS: Which team has allowed the fewest WR touchdowns on the year? If you said the Redskins, you must be DeAngelo Hall (in which case, thanks for reading DeAngelo!) Rice has been a disappointment all year long with just 484 yards and 2 scores through 11 weeks.

TE: Visanthe Shiancoe at ATL: Typically, rookie QB’s develop a rapport with their tight ends, mainly as a safety blanket. That hasn’t happened with Christian Ponder and Shiancoe. Visanthe has been lousy from start to finish, never topping 58 yards in a single game. He’s been targeted a mere 11 times over the last three games and gets tough matchup at Atlanta, a team that has allowed just 2 touchdowns by a tight end all year.

D/ST: Eagles vs NE: The Birds defense had its best game of the season last week against the Gints. But Nnamdi and DRC are both questionable with leg injuries. That leaves Joselio Hanson, Curtis Marsh and Brandon Hughes to team with Asante Samuel in stopping Tom Brady. Not good.

Be sure to tune into Z88.9 FM Sunday at noon for our live fantasy football pregame show.

Also, if you have a fantasy question you need answered, send us an e-mail at fantasyfootballonz889@hotmail.com. We’ll read your question live on the air on Sunday and give you our opinion of what you should do.